The appearance of AI in art is nothing new, hell, Mr. Movies himself Steven Spielberg literally made A.I. Artificial Intelligence near the start of the millenia. But that was the Cool AI, where robots could be people, too, if we let them. Now what we have is the Donkey Bollocks AI that produces garbage facsimiles of things we know and actually like. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth considering AI, and I really need you to bear with me here, within our art, as that’s exactly what the team behind Pragmata did (without touching the stuff).

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### Spring Promotions on JRPGs: Deals You Can’t Afford to Miss

Spring has officially arrived, and with the seasonal shift comes an array of thrilling discounts on games, especially in the JRPG category. Whether you’re playing on a Nintendo Switch or a PlayStation 4/5, this is an excellent chance to grow your collection without overspending. Current offers on the PlayStation Store and the Nintendo eShop showcase a variety of favorite titles at lower prices, making it a prime time to snag those games you’ve had your eye on.

#### Highlighted Discounts

Here’s a compilation of more than a dozen remarkable JRPGs presently on sale at reduced rates:

1. **Digimon Story Time Stranger** – $49 (30% off)
2. **Octopath Traveler 0** – $37.50 (25% off)
3. **Persona 3 Reload** – $24 (60% off)
4. **Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake** – $36 (40% off)
5. **The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel** – $20 (50% off)
6. **Star Ocean The Second Story R** – $25 (50% off)
7. **Fantasian Neo Dimension** – $25 (50% off)
8. **Dungeon Encounters** – $9 (70% off)
9. **Final Fantasy VII Rebirth** – $30 (40% off)
10. **Final Fantasy XVI** – $25 (50% off)
11. **Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles** – $35 (30% off)
12. **NieR:Automata The End of YoRHa Edition** – $16 (60% off)
13. **Voice of Cards** – $25 (50% off)
14. **Collection of Mana** – $16 (60% off)
15. **Sea of Stars** – $21 (40% off)
16. **Atelier Marie Remake** – $25 (50% off)
17. **Dragon Quest XI** – $20 (50% off)

#### Selection Criteria

The games chosen for this compilation primarily offer significant discounts, with many titles around 50% off or beyond. While some recent releases like **Final Fantasy Tactics**, **Digimon Story Time Stranger**, and **Octopath Traveler 0** may not see as steep discounts, a 30% off promotion is still considerable for newer games. Personal favorites such as **Collection of Mana** offer a nostalgic journey during this lively season.

#### Physical Copies on Sale

Beyond digital downloads, several JRPGs are available in physical formats at discounted prices through various retailers such as Amazon. Notable deals include:

– **Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles** for PS5 available for just $25 on Woot.
– The physical edition of **Pokémon Legends: Z-A** for Switch at a reduced price of $45.
– **Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade** for Switch 2 priced at $30 just a month after its release.

### Conclusion

Spring presents a multitude of chances to engage with your favorite JRPGs at discounted prices. From digital downloads on various platforms to physical editions available through retailers, now is the opportune moment to enhance your gaming collection. Don’t overlook these offers, as they provide a fantastic opportunity to experience these acclaimed titles at a fraction of their original price. Enjoy your gaming!

A new Life is Strange game doesn’t always feel particularly odd given its sort of steady turn into a franchise. The last one was only in 2024 with Life Is Strange: Double Exposure, bringing back the original game’s Max Caulfield. This wasn’t necessarily a welcome return for all, and ended up being somewhat of a mixed bag. And now we come to now with a potentially odd entry, Life is Strange: Reunion, which is out today. As the subtitle suggests, and where the oddness comes in, Reunion reunites Max with the surprising return of Chloe Price. Big spoilers ahead for Double Exposure, by the way!

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**Netflix Price Increases: Anticipations for 2025 and Ahead**

As Netflix persistently reconfigures its pricing models, subscribers are now confronting heightened expenses across every service level. The modifications are particularly impactful for viewers seeking to enjoy popular programming, including the eagerly awaited second season of *One Piece*.

### Revised Pricing Model

Per a refreshed support page from Netflix, the pricing modifications are outlined as follows:

– **With ads**: $8 to $9
– **Standard no ads**: $18 to $20
– **Premium no ads**: $25 to $27

These modifications signify a gradual price escalation, reminiscent of similar adjustments implemented just over a year ago, indicating a potential ongoing trend.

### Background Information

In terms of context, the **Premium version**, which enables streaming in 4K without advertisements, has risen from **$23 to $27** within slightly more than a year. This ascending pricing trajectory raises concerns for some consumers who are vigilant about their entertainment expenses. Several streaming platforms, including Spotify, HBO, and Prime Video, have also elevated their prices recently, resulting in heightened financial strain on viewers.

### Effects of Price Increases

Though an increment of a dollar or two might appear trivial in isolation, the aggregate impact of these price increases across various services can accumulate rapidly, encouraging subscribers to reconsider their entertainment choices. For Netflix, the strategy seems to be based on confidence—believing it can elevate prices without incurring significant subscriber losses.

### Popular Programming Amidst Price Adjustments

The announcement of these price increases aligns with the debut of notable Netflix series such as *Virgin River* Season 7 and *Beauty in Black* Season 2, along with the film *Raw*, all of which have seen substantial success on the platform. This indicates Netflix is banking on the high demand for fresh content to offset any negative responses to price hikes.

### Competitive Environment

As Netflix persistently raises its prices, it may soon discover itself in a competitive landscape where it could surpass the costs of services like Game Pass. This potential evolution has ignited dialogues among Netflix executives regarding prospective partnerships, including the exploration of bundling alternatives with Microsoft.

### Final Thoughts

For Netflix subscribers, the updated pricing model will necessitate a reassessment of the value gained from the service. With additional price hikes anticipated across different platforms, consumers will need to navigate the changing streaming market with caution.

We’ve all been there. You and two other morally dubious alien treasure hunters have an expedition go wrong, and find yourselves having to tactically blast through some baddies in order to secure some relics in timely fashion. Well, at least that’s situation the three protagonists of Vaunted, a newly announced tactical RPG, find themselves in.

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### The Implications of DLSS 5: A Plea from New Blood Interactive

In a daring move against Nvidia’s disputed DLSS 5 technology, Dave Oshry, CEO of New Blood Interactive, has initiated a consumer boycott of the graphics leader. This appeal stems from extensive criticism that DLSS 5 acts more like a “generative AI slop filter” instead of a true enhancement in gaming graphics. The backlash regarding this technology remains fervent, and Oshry seeks to unite both developers and gamers against what he sees as harmful developments in video game visuals.

DLSS, or Deep Learning Super Sampling, is Nvidia’s technology aimed at enhancing rendering quality and performance in video games. However, with the newest version, DLSS 5, many developers, including Oshry and David Szymanski from New Blood, contend that its generative features have gone too far. Oshry voiced his strong discontent, saying, “Hurt their sales, sink their stock price… Cease collaboration with them as developers.” His statement mirrors a growing sentiment among specific gaming circles that feel endangered by the consequences of AI-driven changes in artistic expression in games.

While Nvidia tries to promote DLSS 5 as a leap forward in generative upscaling, skeptics remain doubtful. The debate intensified following the release of visuals from games like *Resident Evil Requiem*, which incited claims of poorly implemented AI enhancements that compromise the artistic integrity of the original creations. The uproar underscores a broader discontent with the trend of improvements that prioritize technological progress over authentic artistic quality.

Szymanski remarked, “It particularly stings to see it highlighted in *Resident Evil Requiem*, a game that represents quality and passion in AAA game design.” His comments illustrate significant concern regarding the influence of generative AI, which he and others believe tarnish the creative essence of video game artistry. They argue that the outcome of DLSS 5 resembles a “glorified autocorrect,” standardizing distinct artistic contributions in favor of a uniform, AI-generated aesthetic.

As video game graphics cards escalate in price, the critiques arise at a moment when players desire genuine value in their gaming experiences. The issue of what defines quality in contemporary games has never been more pertinent. “Nobody desires a fucking glorified autocorrect painting over the work of real human beings making genuine art,” Szymanski declared, reflecting a sentiment shared by numerous individuals within the gaming sector.

Oshry encourages the community to actively confront this issue, drawing comparisons to past pushback against NFTs and exploitative monetization tactics. He expressed concern, “At this rate, why produce game art at all? Why not simply sketch some shapes and colors and let AI generate what it deems appropriate?” This rhetoric hits at the core of the ongoing discussion regarding AI’s position in creative fields and its potential to dilute human artistic endeavors.

The DLSS 5 controversy is not just a fleeting complaint; it represents an escalating rift in the gaming community between those who welcome technological innovations and those who emphasize traditional artistry. As Oshry and Szymanski mobilize gamers to their cause, it remains to be seen whether Nvidia will heed the undeniable dissatisfaction or if this signals the onset of a more enduring conflict between developers, gamers, and the AI technologies transforming their landscape.

It would be a reasonable assumption to make that there are only so many variations on football games you can make. Ultimately, no matter how many bells, whistles, or rocket powered cars you throw at it, it always comes down to getting a ball in a net and shouting SCOOOOOORE. Except in the case of Nutmeg!, a “nostalgic deckbuilding football manager” which looks like it features more faxing than any sort of kicking, but I mean that in an endearing way, promise.

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Star Wars: Zero Company – A Comprehensive Insight

Unveiled last year after a minor leak, Star Wars: Zero Company is developing into something truly remarkable. This forthcoming tactical strategy game radiates XCOM energy, yet introduces its own unique twists to the mix. Here’s all the information we have about the forthcoming Star Wars: Zero Company.

What is Star Wars: Zero Company?

Zero Company is a solo turn-based tactical strategy game where players command a team of five characters to embark on various missions to achieve specific goals. Similar to XCOM, players can maneuver their squad members for tactical benefits, seek cover, or surprise enemy droids and criminals.

When will Zero Company be released?

EA and Bit Reactor have yet to disclose an official launch date, but it has been confirmed that Star Wars: Zero Company will debut in 2026.

On which platforms will it be available?

Star Wars: Zero Company is expected to be released later this year on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. A Switch 2 version has not been confirmed so far.

During which Star Wars era is Zero Company set?

Lucasfilm has verified that Zero Company takes place during the Clone Wars period of the Star Wars universe. This era is characterized by widespread conflict as Clone Troopers battled Separatist Droids across planets such as Genosis, Felucia, and Umbara.

Who is the protagonist of Zero Company?

Players will embody Hawks, a customizable character and the leader of Zero Company. Players can modify Hawks’ name, gender, and species. They are a shamed non-clone former Republic officer. Following an undisclosed incident that compelled them to abandon the Republic, Hawks forms Zero Company to continue combating the Separatists and their enigmatic supporters without Republic backing.

Does it incorporate permadeath, akin to XCOM?

Indeed! Any character aside from Hawks can perish permanently if players are not cautious in Zero Company. Even named comrades important to the game’s narrative, as well as randomly generated cannon fodder that players recruit during their journey, can be lost. No one is exempt from danger. So tread carefully.

Are Jedi present in the game?

Absolutely! There is at least one confirmed Jedi in the game who can be included in your squad: Tel-Rea Vokoss, a Tognath Jedi Padawan aiming to complete her master’s unfinished mission before their death.

Can I navigate levels in third-person?

Yes! Bit Reactor has verified that during narrative missions, players will have the ability to move around levels and explore them outside of combat scenarios.

Wait, Star Wars: Zero Company can be abbreviated to ZCOM…!?

Indeed, it’s hard to believe that was unintentional…

This game is cool, but I’m yearning for a grand Star Wars RPG like KOTOR!

Well, here’s some good news: one of the primary figures behind the original Knights of the Old Republic is creating a new single-player RPG…

I quite like a bit of permanency in games. Well, like might be too positive, I’m more intrigued by it and the friction it provides. It’s interesting that if you’re silly enough to kill an NPC in Dark Souls, for example, that’s it, no take backsies. So despite honestly not caring all that much for zombie games, I’m still a bit interested in Dying Light: The Beast and its new Restored Land update which introduces a mode where if you kill a zombie once, it truly is gone for good.

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**Hades 2: Broadening Horizons in April 2024**

Supergiant Games has officially revealed that its eagerly awaited title, *Hades 2*, is set to launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox consoles, including access on the Xbox Game Pass subscription service, on April 14, 2024. This announcement follows the game’s original release on the Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, and PC in September 2025.

*Hades 2* acts as a continuation of the acclaimed 2020 game *Hades*, further enhancing the rapid-fire roguelike gameplay that captivated players across the globe. Placed in a vivid, mythology-inspired setting, gamers once again embody Melinoë, the Underworld’s Princess, as she embarks on a journey filled with intricate storytelling and dynamic interactions.

The news was unveiled during the Xbox Partner Preview event on March 26, 2024, where Supergiant Games presented a new trailer that teased intriguing new characters and gameplay features designed to offer players a more enriching experience than its predecessor.

Initially launched in early access for PC in 2024, *Hades 2* has garnered favorable reviews from both critics and players, attributed to its immersive combat, breathtaking art style, and profound narrative components. The game boasts a broadened character lineup and provides various pathways for gamers in their mission to conquer Chronos, the titan of time, thereby boosting the replayability that roguelike enthusiasts value.

Interestingly, *Hades 2* has chosen to forgo previous generation consoles, such as the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, despite its favorable performance on the older Nintendo Switch. This choice has raised eyebrows, especially since many gamers believe the title could function on these legacy systems. Supergiant Games has not commented on this omission, leaving fans curious.

Currently, *Hades 2* is available on Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, and PC, with its forthcoming launch on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S aimed at reaching a wider gaming audience. With its release on these platforms, players will also have the chance to enjoy the game via Xbox Cloud Streaming, enhancing convenience and accessibility for Xbox Game Pass subscribers.

In summary, *Hades 2* is set to carry on the legacy of its forerunner while introducing fresh gameplay mechanics and a captivating narrative. Its expansion to PlayStation and Xbox signifies an exciting new phase for this cherished franchise, and fans are eagerly looking forward to its release in April 2024.