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CSGO Lotto Scammers Get off with a Slap on the Wrists

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The CSGO Lotto debacle is still fresh in the minds of many Steam users. Plenty of gamers hoped the con-artists responsible would be punished, but the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has let them off with little more than a warning.

Back in late 2015, YouTubers Trevor Martin (TmarTn) and Thomas Cassel (ProSyndicate) posted videos where they claimed they found a safe and legal site, CSGO Lotto, where gamers could gamble Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO for short) weapon skins for the chance to win even rarer skins that could be sold for vast amounts of real-world money. The videos went viral and attracted millions of gamers to the CSGO Lotto site. Fast forward to 2016, YouTubers such as h3h3Productions and HonorTheCall discovered that Martin and Cassel actually owned the site, and gamers were livid. According to a recent GameSpot article, Martin and Cassel violated YouTube guidelines by not disclosing their relationship to CSGO Lotto. The FTC eventually followed suit and investigated Martin and Cassel for using deceptive tactics to endorse the site.

According to the FTC’s investigation, not only did Martin and Cassel fail to disclose their ownership of the CSGO Lotto site, but they also ran an “influencer program” where they paid people with large social media followings between $2,500 and $55,000 to promote CSGO Lotto. The evidence against Martin and Cassel was damning, but sadly, the FTC only sent Martin, Cassel, and 21 of the influencers warning letters that stated they could not endorse any sort of brand without “clearly and conspicuously” disclosing any “material connection.”

While the lack of any tangible punishment may rub many gamers the wrong way, especially those who were victims of Martin and Cassel’s scam, according to Rolling Stone, “the commission typically can’t assess civil penalties on the first violation.” Furthermore, the FTC spokesman Mitchell J. Katz clarified, “The goal of the FTC isn’t to be a punitive or draconian agency. We are here to educate consumers about new markets.” However, the FTC isn’t letting Martin, Cassel, or the influencers off entirely scot-free, as they will be charged fines up to $40,654 if they violate a “consent order” set to take effect October 10th. Only time will tell if this order is enough to stop Martin and Cassel from trying to con gamers again.

All you have to do to get my attention is talk about video games, technology, anime, and/or Dungeons & Dragons - also people in spandex fighting rubber suited monsters.

Gaming

Gran Turismo 7 Update 1.46 introduces an exciting addition to the roster of exclusive cars available in the PS5 and PS4 racing game

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Gran Turismo 7 has just received an exciting update to version 1.46 on both PS5 and PS4. This latest update introduces a unique addition to the game: the Škoda Vision Gran Turismo, a car that you won’t come across in any other game. Škoda makes its debut in the franchise with a visionary study of a single-seater, all-electric racing concept car, designed exclusively for the Polyphony Digital racer.

Once you’ve downloaded update 1.46, you’ll have the opportunity to test drive not one but two additional cars: the AFEELA Prototype 2024 and the iconic Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 Sport Coupe ’70. Get ready for an exhilarating ride! Watch as they take to the track in the video above.

Additionally, the update introduces a new menu for players to tackle in the GT Café. At Collector Level 38, players have the opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of Ferrari 12-cylinder engines, gaining knowledge and expanding their collection. In World Circuits, players can look forward to exciting new events such as the Japanese Clubman Cup 550, the American FR Challenge 550, and the Vision Gran Turismo Trophy. For all the avid fans of Photo Mode, there’s an exciting opportunity to explore the captivating city of San Diego in a brand new Scape.

What are your thoughts on the latest update for Gran Turismo 7? Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments section.

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ReFantazio Takes a Different Approach to Romance, Setting Itself Apart from the Persona Games

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Atlus’ highly anticipated RPG, Metaphor: ReFantazio, appears to incorporate familiar systems reminiscent of the developer’s acclaimed Persona series. The game features turn-based battles that heavily rely on exploiting enemy weaknesses. Additionally, players have the ability to summon warrior spirits during combat. However, the most significant aspect of this game, which will be discussed in this article, is the bonding system. Through this system, players can spend time with important characters and gain deeper insights into their personalities and stories.

In contrast to the Persona games, the bonding system ends at that point. Unfortunately, players will be unable to pursue romantic relationships with their beloved waifus, which may come as a disappointment to those who have developed strong feelings for Hulkenberg, the party’s charismatic red-haired elven knight.

According to Siliconera, the absence of romance came up during a recent question and answer session. Atlus emphasized the continued opportunity to develop meaningful relationships with your allies while also introducing additional narratives through substories. In addition, familiarizing yourself with the supporting characters will grant you access to new archetypes, which serve as the game’s character classes.

In the Persona games, romance is not obligatory; rather, it serves as a means to customize your playthrough. However, it is quite unexpected that Metaphor has chosen not to pursue such a venture, considering the significant amount of discussion it typically generates!

Were you anticipating any romantic elements in Metaphor? If you’re not satisfied with your pre-order, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.

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Shift Up unveils the intriguing details behind the physical packaging of Stellar Blade for the PS5

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It appears that many

are eagerly anticipating the launch of the highly anticipated PS5 exclusive, Stellar Blade. Shift Up, the developer, has shared a lengthy video showcasing the “secrets” found in the physical box of the game for PS5. From what we can gather, these secrets include a reversible cover/dust jacket and a download code for cosmetic items.

We must clarify that while we do appreciate the variant cover, it may be more appealing than the game’s standard art. However, it is not something we would typically classify as a “secret.”. However, what’s interesting is that Shift Up has confirmed through the comments section that this will be the case in all regions. Additionally, the visually striking action RPG will remain uncensored worldwide.

It’s refreshing to witness a developer going the extra mile for physical collectors, and it’s evident that the developer is determined to leave a favorable mark in the console realm. Stellar Blade is set to make its highly anticipated debut this Friday, April 26th, exclusively on the PS5.

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