            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/09/destiny-10th-anniversary-playstation-studios-devs-reflect-on-their-time-as-guardians/',
                'Destiny 10th Anniversary: PlayStation Studios devs reflect on their time as Guardians',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/09ebc50a2df3343432698bcbcfcb64665dad677e.jpeg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Can you believe it’s been 10 years since Destiny first launched on PS3 and PS4? 10 years since players first chose Hunter, Titan, or Warlock and jumped into Bungie’s expansive sci-fi world to build up their fledgling Guardian. I can still vividly remember my first time facing off against a daunting Fallen Walker in the Cosmodrome during the Destiny alpha all those years ago.</p>
<p class="">To celebrate the series’ decade-long run, we asked developers from PlayStation Studios to share their fondest memories playing Destiny and their developer perspective on what makes the game so sticky and satisfying.</p>
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<p class="">With no further ado, happy 10th anniversary, Destiny!</p>
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<p class="">“<em>When Destiny first launched, and after I played for a bit, I actually reached out to my old high school friends who live in another town and convinced them to buy a PS4 and immediately join me. We had such a great time that it kickstarted our weekly game night that has been going on since 2014. Destiny was basically the reason why we reconnected and became even better friends.</em></p>
<p class=""><em>I usually can’t play a game without analyzing the animations. I’ve always been impressed with Destiny’s cinematics and enemy animations. Each faction has always felt very distinct and unique from each other with varied personalities coming through their movement. Bungie’s use of runtime, full-body IK rigs has always been amazing as well.</em>“</p>
<cite>– <strong>Bruno Velazquez, Game Director, Santa Monica Studio</strong></cite></blockquote>
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<p class="">“<em>I got Destiny two months after release as a birthday present to myself, and it gave me so many moments of joy throughout this past decade, and a fireteam of lifelong friends.</em></p>
<p class=""><em>But the one moment I will never get over is the opening mission of the Shadowkeep expansion. One of my friends made it out of the Hive’s tunnels first and said: ‘Oh my god, you guys gotta get up here, now.’ I can still remember the awe and horror of turning the corner in the tunnels of the moon and seeing a huge pyramid embedded in the lunar rock, and processing what it meant. One of the best reveals I’ve ever seen done.</em></p>
<p class=""><em>As a lighting artist, Destiny is a huge inspiration for me, from the beautiful skyboxes to the excellent use of color and silhouette to create interest, focal points, and lead the player throughout fantastical spaces. It’s a dream of mine to work on a game with such freedom of color and atmosphere!</em>“</p>
<cite>– <strong>Jen Carlin, Lighting Artist, Insomniac Games</strong></cite></blockquote>
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<p class="">“<em>Destiny is a game I’ve been playing on and off since September 2014. I begged my aunt to get it for me as an early Christmas gift because even from the early trailers, I knew this game was special. Through high school, college, and my career at PlayStation, it’s always been there.</em></p>
<p class=""><em>When I enter the Tower, no matter how long of a hiatus it’s been, it feels like coming home. Which of course made it all the more devastating when we lost the first one, and all the more elating when we found it again in the Pale Heart. Destiny has achieved an incredible symbiosis based on the dedication of not just the developers but also the players and community, which allows them to create this intense emotional connection. </em></p>
<p class=""><em>As a Narrative and Mission designer, the longevity of the story, the depth of the world-building, and the memorability of not just the main campaigns but the seasonal stories have left a profound impression on me that makes me wish I could experience it all over again and hope to emulate in the future of my career.</em>“</p>
<cite>– <strong>Sam Jordan, Designer, Insomniac Games</strong></cite></blockquote>
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<p class="">“<em>My earliest memory of Destiny is running Relic Iron loops on Mars for a friend, but my favorite memory would have to be my raid team beating Nezarac on contest mode after we wiped during the final stand, all thanks to one friend’s insistence on using Osteo Striga.</em></p>
<p class=""><em>The player expression through buildcrafting is what keeps me constantly interested in Destiny, especially the minutia of how a build can differ from person to person. I love fine-tuning my support builds to help my teammates, whether that’s printing orbs on Arc Hunter, locking down the battlefield on Stasis Warlock, or creating safe havens on Void Titan. Happy 10th anniversary Destiny, you’ve definitely become legend!</em>“</p>
<cite>– <strong>Matthew Makuch, Senior Technical Designer, Bend Studio</strong></cite></blockquote>
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<p class="">“<em>Each raid has a physical jacket you can buy if you complete it in the first week. My favorite is my first, the Crown of Sorrow jacket. The jacket features a chalice and my gamer tag. I didn’t have a clan, but that was worth trying LFG. At minimum Power, the difficulty got ridiculous. Most hits would put me one shot from death. Eventually, the group kicked me, and I went to bed dispirited and disappointed.</em></p>
<p class=""><em>The next day, I joined another LFG for one last shot an hour before reset. In the group were speedrunners from Fast who’d set the world record two weeks later. I only realized when they flew across and skipped the whole jumping puzzle!</em></p>
<p class=""><em>At the final boss, random crystals spawned which required two players to melee them. I was so focused on surviving I’d often miss the spawn, so I heard a constant chorus of “Behind you!  Hurry up!”  With ten minutes before reset, we wiped on an enrage [an attack that’s unleashed if players take too long] just before we killed the boss.  But we rallied and got the kill with only minutes left. In less than 24 hours, I had gone from the lowest to the highest point in my Destiny journey.</em>“</p>
<cite>– <strong>Jeffrey Lininger, Senior Game Designer, Guerrilla</strong></cite></blockquote>
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<p class="">“<em>One of my favourite things about Destiny is that it’s like a social sandbox and a TV show I can’t get enough of rolled into one. Guiding a group of my friends through Vault of Glass, their first raid, was a brilliant experience!</em></p>
<p class=""><em>My first instinct when I find anything cool is to tell someone about it. So it was so much fun to be able to share one of my all time favourite experiences, take them through each encounter and watch them, well, die over and over but also get excited as they figure out each mechanic and eventually succeed.</em></p>
<p class=""><em>At the same time, it’s a world that’s so fascinating to explore and delve into. Reading through the Books of Sorrow and the work of the amazing writing team is as impactful to me as exploring the Pale Heart or finally defeating Skolas when we foolishly (or bravely?) tried that week Lightswitch was the modifier. Good times. Telesto is also the Besto.</em>“</p>
<cite>– <strong>Luke Gillard, Senior Functional Tester, Guerrilla / PlayStation QA</strong></cite></blockquote>
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<p class="">“<em>The most memorable moment for me is the entrance of the Witch Queen expansion as you cannonball (quite literally) through an endless bound of beautiful locations that left me speechless.</em></p>
<p class=""><em>Destiny 2 is a masterpiece in visual quality and graphical standards; the carefully crafted environments are rich with narrative design and especially to me, the lighting. The artistic lighting since Destiny began has had such a significant influence on the methods that I use to approach lighting in similarly enriched environments. From the use of colour, compositions and implementation to gameplay, the artistic talent of the team truly sets one of the highest standards for our industry and they continually prove that with each new expansion.</em></p>
<p class="">“</p>
<cite>– <strong>Daniel Sewell, Senior Lighting Artist, Haven</strong></cite></blockquote>
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<p class="">What are your earliest and fondest memories from Destiny’s past 10 years?</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/09/tune-in-tomorrow-for-a-playstation-5-technical-presentation-hosted-by-mark-cerny/',
                'Tune in tomorrow for a PlayStation 5 Technical Presentation hosted by Mark Cerny',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/066b4c315cc4c34e1fdde28f518006daf757fc26.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Join us for a streamed presentation hosted by Mark Cerny, Lead Architect of the PS5 console. The 9-minute Technical Presentation will focus on PS5 and innovations in gaming technology.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to watch</h2>
<p class="">The stream will be broadcast in English on the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/PlayStation">PlayStation YouTube channel</a> September 10 at 8:00am PT / 11:00am ET / 4:00pm BST.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Regarding co-streaming and video-on-demand (VOD)</h2>
<p class="">Please note that this broadcast may include copyrighted content (e.g. licensed music) that PlayStation does not control. We welcome and celebrate our amazing co-streamers and creators, but licensing agreements outside our control could interfere with co-streams or VOD archives of this broadcast. If you’re planning to save this broadcast as a VOD to create recap videos, or to repost clips or segments from the show, we advise omitting any copyrighted music.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/10/fatal-fury-city-of-the-wolves-interview-snk-director-discusses-the-series-new-direction/',
                'Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves interview  — SNK director discusses the series’ new direction',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/23dbfcb2d05326d1e7abff5dd9f950d1282e6889.jpeg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
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<p class="">It’s been quite a long time since the pioneering fighting game franchise Fatal Fury has seen a proper new installment. Yes, characters from the Fatal Fury series have shown up in other games, but the last proper Fatal Fury game, Garou: Mark of the Wolves, hit arcades all the way back in 1999. 25 years later, the Legendary Wolves are back in action in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, ready to captivate a new generation of fighting gamers and tie-up plot threads longtime fans have seen dangling for decades. </p>
<p class="">To get a close-up look at Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, we sat down with director Hayato Konya and art director Yoichiro Soeda to discuss the game’s development, the new and returning faces, and what makes it special.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A continuation long in the making </h2>
<p class="">Fatal Fury is among the pioneers of the fighting game genre. The original game followed martial artists Terry and Andy Bogard and their friend Joe Higashi on a quest to avenge the death of their adoptive father. It emphasized story and cinematics, ending with a shocking climactic scene where villain Geese Howard falls to his demise from a skyscraper. From that point on, Fatal Fury’s gameplay would evolve greatly. Still, the emphasis on stylish and memorable characters, action-film-inspired stories, and its vibrant Southtown setting would continue.</p>
<p class="">“In the very beginning, we had the concept where Fatal Fury was like a movie, where the protagonists had to work up to fight the big villain,” Soeda said. “It was popular, and players wanted more, so we kept expanding with each game. At one point, Terry takes on Geese’s child Rock as his son. At the time, we didn’t know where that would lead.” </p>
<p class="">Eventually, however, Rock became the new face of Fatal Fury.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">These wolves pack style</h2>
<p class="">One of the most striking elements of City of the Wolves is its bold, vibrant art style. The visuals were meant to evoke a mixture of American comic art and Japanese anime and appeal to both old and new players. </p>
<p class="">“We wanted the characters to really ‘pop’ and be striking. We thought American comic books do that well, and we wanted to emulate that,” Soeda said. “Fatal Fury traditionally has an anime style to it. We felt that, for the modern audience, the blending of those two things would work well for the game. Now we have it, and it looks great.”</p>
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<p class="">One of the newest additions to City of the Wolves’ gameplay is the Rev Gauge, a special meter tied in with new mechanics that allows for new attacks and movement techniques. The damage players can score off using Rev-boosted skills like powered-up Rev Arts special moves and Rev Accel to chain damaging attacks together is explosive. Still, the danger of using too much Rev and going into a fatigued Overheat state is also a concern.</p>
<p class="">“We want to give people the ability to use super moves, but not limit them to a single gauge,” explains Konya. ” So, we have two different bars, making it a lot easier. Originally, there was no Rev Gauge–just a power gauge. The idea came from Fatal Fury: Wild Ambition, where you had a Heat gauge. We modernized and made it more flashy and easier to use.”</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Coming home to Southtown</h2>
<p class="">One thing fans are eagerly anticipating is character reveals of both old favorites and new faces. One example is the recent re-introduction of longtime fan favorite character Mai Shiranui, sporting a new look. But even the new characters have ties to old favorites: the spunky young martial artist Preecha is a disciple of the original hero, Joe Higashi. </p>
<p class="">“Garou left us with a lot of homework,” says Konya. “What happened with Hotaru and her brother? What’s going on with Kain and Rock? We want to focus on telling those stories to completion and making sure that we’ve tied up all of those things. So we have a lot of work to do.”</p>
<p class="">SNK games also have a history of meshing gameplay and narrative together, with story events affecting characters’ skills and abilities that will continue in City of the Wolves.</p>
<p class="">“It’s been 25 years since Garou was released, and there’s a lot of people who are still playing that game now,” notes Konya. “But we consider the story very important. And if the story requires this person to lose powers, lose their arm, then so be it. Still, because this is a long-awaited game, we don’t want to change it so much that it becomes alien to people looking forward to seeing these characters again. It’s a balancing act.”</p>
<p class="">Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves will mark the series’ long-awaited return on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 on April 24 of next year. Fret not, fans of the Wolves. You won’t be hungry for much longer.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/10/mortal-kombat-1-khaos-reigns-unleashing-sektors-vicious-new-brutality/',
                'Mortal Kombat 1: Khaos Reigns — unleashing Sektor’s vicious new Brutality',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/0d7d8c791bedb1395bd1603856ec5b5c09d59960.jpeg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
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<p class="">When Liu Kang changed the timeline to what we know it to be in Mortal Kombat 1, he created a whole new universe of possibilities. In this New Era, some characters have been reimagined. Sektor first appeared in Mortal Kombat 3 as a cybernetic ninja, famous for punishing enemies with missile barrages and flamethrower attacks. In Mortal Kombat 1: Khaos Reigns which launches September 24 on PS5, Sektor emerges as a reinvented character with an arsenal of new abilities. Including a devastating new Brutality, which we’ll be sharing for the first time here.</p>
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<p class="">Design-wise, we wanted to explore the idea that in this new timeline Sektor fights in a cyber suit as opposed to being completely robotic, a precursor to the origins of the Lin Kuei’s cybernetic initiative before they reached the level of fully converting humans into cyborgs. For Mortal Kombat 1, the goal was to convey strength and overwhelming firepower through her use of heavy weapons. Sektor’s power comes primarily through an exosuit that deploys her assortment of weapons but also enhances her hand-to-hand fighting ability using thrusters on her palms and feet. Despite Sektor’s new appearance, it remained imperative to design abilities that retain the DNA from the klassic version of the character, while simultaneously complementing her toolkit with new powers that highlight the technology of her new exosuit.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53976719645_246da7e525_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53976719645_246da7e525_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">To highlight these new attacks, we continually looked for opportunities to design Brutality moments that pair well with key special moves. Brutalities are prominent moments during gameplay where an opponent gets destroyed in a compelling, over-the-top way. The recipe for a good Brutality often lies in a combination of imagination while creating a visceral reaction with comedic elements. For us, Sektor’s Tug of War Brutality ticks each of those boxes. The attack is based on a move she had in Mortal Kombat 3 where a mechanical arm comes out and throws her opponent. In Mortal Kombat 1: Khaos Reigns, we wanted to pay homage to this by having the mechanic arm tear off the victim’s head and hold it up like a trophy. This then presented a unique opportunity in terms of how the opponent’s head could be best demolished in the most audacious way possible. After mulling it over, our design group decided on having her grind the head up as if it was jammed into a garbage disposal, with the liquefied remains ejecting outward from the flaps in her suit, which we think will elicit a reaction from players.</p>
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<img alt="Mortal Kombat 1: Khaos Reigns — unleashing Sektor’s vicious new Brutality" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/HXM9tc0n5Jc/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<p class="">Gameplay-wise, Sektor is an accessible space control character with good mid to long-range zoning potential. Additionally, she has excellent air mobility options primarily due to her use of air thrusters capable of propelling her in any direction, acting similarly to a double jump. One of Sektor’s new attacks is SkyDrop, where she blasts into the air using her thrusters and slams down over the opponent. For the enhanced version, Sektor crushes the opponent with an uppercut before slamming down and blasting them into the air for a juggle opportunity leading to potentially big combo damage. Moreover, Sektor’s new Blast Shield is a unique special move where she deploys a large shield while at the same time clamping her feet to the ground. While the shield is deployed, incoming projectiles can no longer push Sektor back, and successfully blocking projectile attacks charges up secondary weapons and gives her certain cancel options into special moves.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53976719555_b13039c183_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53976719555_b13039c183_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Sektor has always been an enormous fan-favorite in the Mortal Kombat Universe, and now in Mortal Kombat 1: Khaos Reigns, her arsenal of devastating weaponry and abilities give her a target-rich environment among the cast of kombatants in the game. We’re excited for players to finally get their hands on Sektor and experience all the fun and interesting things she is capable of.</p>
<p class="">Sektor will be available as a playable character when the Mortal Kombat 1: Khaos Reigns Expansion releases digitally on PS5 on September 24.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/10/playstation-store-august-2024s-top-downloads/',
                'PlayStation Store: August 2024’s top downloads',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/f5d616adfd132bdbc816e9148dbf5fd4553a72d3.jpeg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">It’s time to see which PS5, PS4, PS VR2, PS VR, and free-to-play games topped the download charts last month. New release Black Myth: Wukong journeyed to the top of the download charts on August’s PS5 list, with Swordsman VR and Beat Saber taking top spots in the US and EU regions.</p>
<p class="">Check out the full listings below. What titles are you playing this month?</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PS5 Games</strong></h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-ps-product-spec table-first-column-width-50"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><thead><tr><th><strong>US/Canada</strong></th><th><strong>EU</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Black Myth: Wukong</strong></td><td><strong>Black Myth: Wukong</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>EA SPORTS Madden NFL 25</strong></td><td><strong>Grand Theft Auto V</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>EA SPORTS College Football 25</strong></td><td><strong>Star Wars Outlaws</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Grand Theft Auto V</strong></td><td><strong>Hogwarts Legacy</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Star Wars Outlaws</strong></td><td><strong>Baldur’s Gate 3</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege</strong></td><td><strong>Marvel’s Spider-Man 2</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Marvel’s Spider-Man 2</strong></td><td><strong>Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Baldur’s Gate 3</strong></td><td><strong>Gran Turismo 7</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Hogwarts Legacy</strong></td><td><strong>Among Us</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>WWE 2K24</strong></td><td><strong>Sea of Thieves</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>HELLDIVERS 2</strong></td><td><strong>Assassin’s Creed Mirage</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Ghost of Tsushima DIRECTOR’S CUT</strong></td><td><strong>Cyberpunk 2077</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Sea of Thieves</strong></td><td><strong>The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>ELDEN RING</strong></td><td><strong>It Takes Two</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Gran Turismo 7</strong></td><td><strong>ELDEN RING</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Cyberpunk 2077</strong></td><td><strong>Thank Goodness You’re Here!</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III</strong></td><td><strong>Ghost of Tsushima DIRECTOR’S CUT</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Among Us</strong></td><td><strong>WWE 2K24</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>MLB The Show 24</strong></td><td><strong>Cat Quest III</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Mortal Kombat 1</strong></td><td><strong>Vampire Survivors</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>*Naming of products may differ between regions</em><br/><em>*Upgrades not included</em></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PS4 Games</strong></h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table table-first-column-width-50 is-style-ps-product-spec"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><thead><tr><th><strong>US/Canada</strong></th><th><strong>EU</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Minecraft</strong></td><td><strong>Minecraft</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Call of Duty: Black Ops III</strong></td><td><strong>A Way Out</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Batman: Arkham Knight</strong></td><td><strong>The Forest</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Red Dead Redemption 2</strong></td><td><strong>Grand Theft Auto V</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Grand Theft Auto V</strong></td><td><strong>Gang Beasts</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Castle Crashers Remastered</strong></td><td><strong>Firewatch</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Gang Beasts</strong></td><td><strong>Kingdom Come: Deliverance</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>The Forest</strong></td><td><strong>Red Dead Redemption 2</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Firewatch</strong></td><td><strong>Need for Speed Payback</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Need for Speed Payback</strong></td><td><strong>Batman: Arkham Knight</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Dying Light</strong></td><td><strong>Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 – The Official Video Game</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>A Way Out</strong></td><td><strong>Dying Light</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>theHunter: Call of the Wild</strong></td><td><strong>LEGO Marvel Super Heroes</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>EA SPORTS Madden NFL 25</strong></td><td><strong>Mortal Kombat X</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>LEGO Marvel Super Heroes</strong></td><td><strong>Outlast</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Mortal Kombat X</strong></td><td><strong>Unravel Two</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Need for Speed Heat</strong></td><td><strong>Need for Speed Heat</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Kingdom Come: Deliverance</strong></td><td><strong>Call of Duty: Black Ops III</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Alien: Isolation</strong></td><td><strong>Hogwarts Legacy</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Watch Dogs 2</strong></td><td><strong>theHunter: Call of the Wild</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><strong>        </strong><strong> </strong><em>*Naming of products may differ between regions</em></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PS VR2 Games*</strong></h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table table-first-column-width-50 is-style-ps-product-spec"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><thead><tr><th><strong>US/Canada</strong></th><th><strong>EU</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Beat Saber</strong></td><td><strong>Swordsman VR</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Swordsman VR</strong></td><td><strong>Beat Saber</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Among Us VR</strong></td><td><strong>Pavlov</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Pavlov</strong></td><td><strong>Among Us VR</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Arizona Sunshine 2</strong></td><td><strong>Arizona Sunshine 2</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Arcade Paradise VR</strong></td><td><strong>Job Simulator</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>COMPOUND</strong></td><td><strong>Arcade Paradise VR</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Creed: Rise to Glory – Championship Edition</strong></td><td><strong>Creed: Rise to Glory – Championship Edition</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Synapse</strong></td><td><strong>Survivorman VR The Descent</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Job Simulator</strong></td><td><strong>The Dark Pictures: Switchback VR</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em> *PS Store purchases only. Game upgrades or games bundled with hardware not included</em></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PSVR Games</strong></h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table table-first-column-width-50 is-style-ps-product-spec"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><thead><tr><th><strong>US/Canada</strong></th><th><strong>EU</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>ASTRO BOT Rescue Mission</strong></td><td><strong>SUPERHOT VR</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>SUPERHOT VR</strong></td><td><strong>Sniper Elite VR</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>The Walking Dead Onslaught</strong></td><td><strong>Job Simulator</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Paranormal Activity: The Lost Soul</strong></td><td><strong>The Walking Dead Onslaught</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Job Simulator</strong></td><td><strong>Goalkeeper VR Challenge</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Arizona Sunshine</strong></td><td><strong>Batman: Arkham VR</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Borderlands 2 VR</strong></td><td><strong>Beat Saber</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim VR</strong></td><td><strong>ASTRO BOT Rescue Mission</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Creed Rise to Glory</strong></td><td><strong>Creed: Rise to Glory</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Sniper Elite VR</strong></td><td><strong>Arizona Sunshine</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Free to Play (PS5 + PS4)</strong></h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table table-first-column-width-50 is-style-ps-product-spec"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><thead><tr><th><strong>US/Canada</strong></th><th><strong>EU</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>VALORANT</strong></td><td><strong>VALORANT</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Fortnite</strong></td><td><strong>Asphalt Legends Unite</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Roblox</strong></td><td><strong>Fortnite</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Asphalt Legends Unite</strong></td><td><strong>Roblox</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>The First Descendant</strong></td><td><strong>Fall Guys</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Fall Guys</strong></td><td><strong>Stumble Guys</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Call of Duty: Warzone</strong></td><td><strong>Rocket League</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Rocket League</strong></td><td><strong>Call of Duty: Warzone</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Apex Legends</strong></td><td><strong>eFootball 2024</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>The Sims 4</strong></td><td><strong>The First Descendant</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/12/until-dawn-pc-features-and-specs-revealed-out-october-4/',
                'Until Dawn PC features and specs revealed, out October 4',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/1f1eefd3b5ac80f7a942610edbdbe74d969f6c42.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class=""><strong>UPDATE: </strong>An earlier version of this article contained inaccurate information regarding ultrawide aspect ratios. This information has since been updated, plus new clarification on upscaling.</p>
<hr class="ps-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>
<p class="">The terrifying Until Dawn is launching on PC for the first time on October 4, and we wanted to deliver the best horror experience for a new audience.</p>
<p class="">The PC version will have advanced graphical features, customizability, accessibility features and run on a wide range of hardware. See our recommended specs below:</p>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-ps-product-spec"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><thead><tr><th class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center"></th><th class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Minimum</th><th class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Recommended</th><th class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">High</th><th class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Ultra</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center"><strong>Preset</strong></td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Low</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Medium</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">High</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Very High</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center"><strong>AVG Performance</strong></td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">720P @ 30 FPS</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">1080P @ 60 FPS</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">1440p @ 60FPS / 4K @ 30FPS</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">4K @ 60FPS</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center"><strong>Processor</strong></td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Intel Core i7 4790K /  AMD Ryzen 5 1500X (or similar processor with AVX support)</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Intel Core i5 8600 / AMD Ryzen 7 2700X</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Intel Core i5 8600 / AMD Ryzen 7 2700X</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Intel Core i7 11700K / AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center"><strong>Graphics</strong></td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 / Radeon RX 470 (or equivalent card with minimum 6GB VRAM)</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 / AMD Radeon RX 6600XT</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 / AMD Radeon RX 6800XT</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti / AMD Radeon RX 6900XT</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center"><strong>Memory</strong></td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">8GB RAM</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">16GB RAM</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">16GB RAM</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">16GB RAM</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center"><strong>Storage</strong></td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">70GB on SSD</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">70GB on SSD</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">70GB on NVMe</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">70GB on NVMe</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center"><strong>OS</strong></td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Windows 10, 11</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Windows 10, 11</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Windows 10, 11</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Windows 10, 11</td></tr><tr><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center"><strong>Upscaling</strong></td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Native</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Native</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">Native</td><td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">DLSS 3.7 / FSR 3.1</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
<p class="">Within the extensive set of features we support on PC, these are some of the big highlights:</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Full DualSense controller support</h2>
<p class="">Much like the PS5 console version, we are bringing the capabilities of the DualSense controller straight over to PC. You’ll be able to experience haptic feedback, feeling the heartbeat of the characters during intense Don’t Move sequences. Adaptive triggers allow you to feel the weight of your choices, and experience life-like resistance when pulling the trigger of firearms.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53986537076_c31217033c_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53986537076_c31217033c_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Upscaling with NVIDIA DLSS 3 &amp; AMD FSR 3</h2>
<p class="">We’re using both NVIDIA &amp; AMD technology to bring you the latest versions of their cutting-edge upscaling technologies.</p>
<p class="">With NVIDIA, the game supports DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) 3.7; their AI-based upscaler  that boosts graphics performance and framerates on GeForce RTX GPUs whilst retaining image quality. We’ve also included Frame Generation (on supported RTX GPUs) for a smoother experience and NVIDIA Reflex to help reduce latency.</p>
<p class="">With AMD, we’ve included the latest version of FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR): 3.1 – their upscaling technology is designed to run on virtually any hardware. Oh, and if that wasn’t good enough: we’ve also included FSR’s Frame Generation technology as well.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53985647067_aabfa3b0c1_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53985647067_aabfa3b0c1_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ultrawide Aspect Ratio </h2>
<p class="">Playing Until Dawn on an ultrawide monitor is quite an experience, and it’s something we’ve wanted to do from the very beginning. You can run on ultrawide monitors with an aspect ratio of 21:9.</p>
<p class="">For those who don’t want to use the game’s new 23.9:1 cinematic aspect ratio, you can also play using the original 16:9 aspect ratio. Or, if you want to <em>really</em> configure, we allow you to run it in “Free” aspect ratio mode.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ray-tracing support </h2>
<p class="">If you have the supported hardware, Until Dawn has been built with a curated set of ray-tracing features, such as shadows, reflections and Ambient Occlusion.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53986970765_b53214294a_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53986970765_b53214294a_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Unlocked frame rate</h2>
<p class="">One of the great reasons for playing on PC is the sheer power of the hardware you can run on. For those who have monitors (and machines) that can render high frame rates: you can play at whatever frame rate your machine can support.</p>
<p class="">Aside from these features, we also support multiple peripherals beyond the DualSense controller. We also support Steam Input, so you can remap to your heart’s content.</p>
<p class="">Pre-order Until Dawn now and be one of the first to experience this rebuilt and enhanced classic on PC and PS5 when it launches October 4, 2024*.</p>
<p class="">*<em>PC release 8am PDT worldwide. Please check local time zone for day of release. Account for PlayStation Network required on PC.</em></p>
<p class=""><em>Compatible PC and Graphics Card required for enhanced visual features.</em></p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/12/exploring-the-picturesque-city-of-artia-in-the-plucky-squire/',
                'Exploring the picturesque city of Artia in The Plucky Squire',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/543d919010a7b1ad05364319cf837ca77dba81f2-scaled.jpeg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">The Plucky Squire will leap from the page to PlayStation 5 on September 17, and one of the many magical places you’ll visit on your adventures is the colorful city of Artia, the creative capital of the land of Mojo.</p>
<p class="">Artia is the home of Jot’s best friend, Violet, and is full of all types of artists, some of whom you might recognize.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-395907"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/0c9134c95a36119005d0159f77d99adaf41a9042.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">Shortly after arriving in the city, you’ll meet Rola Lightbrush, Violet’s proud mum, who informs the crew that Violet’s Uncle Umber has gotten himself into a pickle; his roly-poly Rubboinks have escaped! The gang offers to help and begins searching the city.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-395908"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://stream.mux.com/Jk7fkEKD2dBQ4jOI002oEapi6aAHTr5WgDiU3pUvaEyQ/capped-1080p.mp4?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJKazdma0VLRDJkQlE0ak9JMDAyb0VhcGk2YUFIVHI1V2dEaVUzcFV2YUV5USIsImF1ZCI6InYiLCJleHAiOjE3MzgwMjE3ODksImtpZCI6IjRMNXlPY2pyVjFOVXFWemNVdkpCbjF3VG00ZVRHRzlNaDAyMDFZazVqdTlOQSJ9.l9hECIXd32TBqyE9MZ3mj2kfa7fnkPvztCSpnB-UDAtnmMD-8--zm_LUlkCYXrytNHP0tIY6Oawe0iujRvf7WuQlRrkWBIe9fDXu5jWngnfc9rMHCFNfFtl6JQet-DgiYWmJW48sZFN21_wcQ2iAAboH_Pa_U_fcVzzwwmGsiIJZkfjiUB0Z40yZI03lxMTydsn7ZqQRbalxTX6_wEUpgvMSNyswcq6Nez0lujKKdFfcDgQz2JsEK99zbBL3ZvT7KQ-68hf02ghzoPOEtPUdrYV6GsLrn2nydKIxb3SNlZtXCfo6yB9ysA03LFzOWCk7gjiIc4LdW2jTymm76z0pqw" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">Jot and his friends quickly set about securing Uncle Umber’s pesky pigs, but they’ll need to uncover a portal lurking beneath the stubborn backside of a resident artist’s pet pooch in order to complete the task.     </p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-395909"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/ef7af126c0c906f6bb2793483d0eca7e0b47daad.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">Jot springs from the book to find the tool he needs to return Uncle Umber’s final piggy. Navigating the desk is easier said than done, however, with more and more of Humgrump’s minions manifesting in the real world.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-395910"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/a603fa2211386e61bfda9f80aafcfbf673201262.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">Finally, Jot ascends to the puzzling Toy House to find his prize: The Turn Gauntlets! Once acquired, Jot can tilt the book to manipulate the characters inside, including one extra-large Rubboink…</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-395911"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/1ad44db4544999657c6b7c736ac66f0dc8bb40e6.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">Artia is just one of many magical locations you’ll discover on the pages of The Plucky Squire. You can experience this dimension-hopping adventure for yourself when the game launches on PS5 on September 17 as part of PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium.</p>
<p class="">Will brave Jot be able to defeat the wicked Humgrump and restore peace to the land of Mojo? The fate of the realm is in your hands.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/13/share-of-the-week-astro-bot/',
                'Share of the Week: Astro Bot',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/46b1a162319ee22c4a54d68d7493508eae09e550.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Last week, we blasted off into a new adventure with Astro Bot, and asked you to share your favorite moments using #PSshare #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights:</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53989234907_bb45e63b88_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53989234907_bb45e63b88_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/Boargs/status/1833711218298921455/photo/1"><em>Boargs</em></a><em> </em><em>shares Astro leading a pack of bots across the Crash Site.</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53990553805_a0e14662e3_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53990553805_a0e14662e3_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/i3ecci_/status/1833783687218942134/photo/3"><em>i3ecci_</em></a><em> shares Astro riding down some colorful railing into a level.</em></p>



​​<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53990553820_4c62f138e4_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53990553820_4c62f138e4_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/AutomotiveVP/status/1833344524627620058/photo/2"><em>AutomotiveVP</em></a><em> </em><em>shares Astro in a gold costume cheering at the end of the casino level</em>.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53990369448_979aedf0e8_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53990369448_979aedf0e8_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/T0minator_/status/1833708608066126230/photo/4"><em>T0minator_</em></a><em> shares Astro kicking a soccer ball</em>.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53990487209_5b9d0a9ffb_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53990487209_5b9d0a9ffb_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/kunai_kirika/status/1833269992592433463/photo/1"><em>kunai_kirika</em></a><em> shares small mouse Astro being observed by a cat bot.</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53990369393_8479f4cfa7_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53990369393_8479f4cfa7_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/HazzaniVP/status/1832165663684583584/photo/1"><em>HazzaniVP</em></a><em> shares a full portrait of Astro facing forward</em>.</p>
<p class="">Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week?</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53990369383_c1ae09e5ed_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53990369383_c1ae09e5ed_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">THEME: Astro Bot – Abilities<br/>SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on September 18, 2024 </p>
<p class="">Next week, we’re showing off Astro Bot’s many abilities and power-up suits. Share action-packed moments utilizing his special abilities using #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/17/dead-rising-deluxe-remaster-12-ways-capcom-renovates-willamette-mall/',
                'Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster: 12 ways Capcom renovates Willamette Mall',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/22ce500580766712870f651a10aa19c6bff73d4a.jpeg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
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<p class="">72 hours. That was how much time you originally had to find out why there was a zombie outbreak at Willamette Parkview Mall, in the fantastically entertaining Dead Rising. Even after unlocking its extended modes, it never felt enough to capture all the unpredictable and often hilarious fun had by using everything from a kids’ plastic laser sword to tennis balls to fend off the endless undead masses.</p>
<p class="">So it’s only fitting that Capcom has updated Frank West’s adventure with <a href="https://store.playstation.com/search/dead%20rising%20deluxe%20remaster">Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster</a> to get fans and newcomers’ blood pumping in the best possible way…</p>
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<p class=""><em>Note: Some gameplay clips in this article feature outfits available with the Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster Digital Deluxe Edition</em></p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>A visual showpiece via the RE Engine</strong></h3>
<div class="wp-block-playstation-content-slider"><div class="slider-controls"><div class="slider-arrows"><button aria-controls="0a1c0066-acf6-42f9-8d7f-7b8f4b7d0dd9" aria-label="Previous slide" class="slider-arrow slider-arrow-prev" type="button"><svg focusable="false" height="40" viewbox="0 0 40 40" width="40" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path d="m15.5 0.932-4.3 4.38 14.5 14.6-14.5 14.5 4.3 4.4 14.6-14.6 4.4-4.3-4.4-4.4-14.6-14.6z"></path></svg></button><button aria-controls="0a1c0066-acf6-42f9-8d7f-7b8f4b7d0dd9" aria-label="Next slide" class="slider-arrow slider-arrow-next" type="button"><svg focusable="false" height="40" viewbox="0 0 40 40" width="40" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path d="m15.5 0.932-4.3 4.38 14.5 14.6-14.5 14.5 4.3 4.4 14.6-14.6 4.4-4.3-4.4-4.4-14.6-14.6z"></path></svg></button></div><div aria-hidden="true" class="slider-count">1/2</div><span aria-live="polite" class="screen-reader-text">Now showing slide 1 of 2</span><button class="slider-toggle is-mounted" type="button">Show all</button></div><div class="splide"><div class="splide__track" id="0a1c0066-acf6-42f9-8d7f-7b8f4b7d0dd9"><div class="splide__list">
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<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-395988"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/5cc61024d4a7f5684e36c2399db1817a2d2dbb21.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
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<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-395998"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://stream.mux.com/MkgQ6g8h6jyeNH1B4DnIzzzMVGPO3w5pcGuKM5mqtD00/capped-1080p.mp4?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJNa2dRNmc4aDZqeWVOSDFCNERuSXp6ek1WR1BPM3c1cGNHdUtNNW1xdEQwMCIsImF1ZCI6InYiLCJleHAiOjE3MzgwMjE3OTIsImtpZCI6IjRMNXlPY2pyVjFOVXFWemNVdkpCbjF3VG00ZVRHRzlNaDAyMDFZazVqdTlOQSJ9.EvxcP06t7tpE-OHQZq2kFcwNgU62CikadiwmBR7oXd7qp5x8J1xQuzbSQpbnm8W1ly1fLyareKbZVUb4SW4eWhvEsN2t2hMW04Zj8oXLixNTHKiV61reOywz6aHSlUHp5cjdxVpsuZNoootaGm7XVn18zEDAj04bf_67y5yf0-t7UpuNpK0GVE5_y3FkxsRRliTnTded6MowqMcphqeZXgKu-JUv7ntes-15Wqf3f3W3Tvv57pzaPmYMdquda8yEC2o3bnW9jzJxKSw8lJD7yYkfUkGGI5_5yBueDHGKAVQJnjPHoaejAih4Ya7qfm3xds41OA30ucuyQwomlWXmJw" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
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<p class=""><strong>Real time lighting and shadows:</strong> Whether you’re running around the colorful food court or trying to hold your nerve in the moonlit outdoors between mall entrances, the Remaster’s reborn visuals don’t sacrifice the stylised personality of the original game. The mood created by these dynamic effects ensure you’re engaged in an entertaining blend of the creepy and vibrant.</p>
<p class=""><strong>More detailed character models: </strong>Getting up close to Frank highlights the marked improvements Capcom has made to the stars of the game, with even the seams and stitching of his iconic leather jacket visible. And if you’re unfortunate to get caught out by an enemy, you’ll sometimes see anything from temporary facial bleeding to crimson bullet holes.</p>
<p class="">Non-Player Characters<strong> </strong>have been graced with more detail, too. For example, annoying rival photographer Kent is blessed with some lavishly moving hair, and fans of Madonna the poodle will definitely get a kick out of her looking more like a… well, poodle.</p>
<p class="">Even the zombies have a greater variety of models and body shapes, which not only makes it more fun when taking snaps of them, but certain moves like Frank’s head stepping Zombie Ride become even more amusing.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Modern and classic control options</strong></h3>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-395990"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/4a9a2ef2a4a64f7f54b664e3c123a9880c7a5844.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class=""><strong>Get to grips with Frank quicker:</strong> It’s frightening enough being surrounded by hordes of the undead, so if you’re unfamiliar with Frank’s original controls never fear. You no longer need to choose between moving and shooting, making for far smoother gunplay. During moments where gun mastery is essential – that’s most boss battles in the game – you’re in for a much more accessible and dynamic fight, helped with the option of auto aim assist and a Heads-Up Display reticle.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Defensive moves are easier to perform:</strong> A new dedicated dodge roll button offers pain-free evasion, but if Frank gets pinned by zombies you can tap a face button to escape instead of having to manically twirl the left stick.</p>
<p class="">And, of course, if you want to keep the deliberate tension of the original, you can always revert back to the classic control set-up, too.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Better save functionality</strong></h3>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-395991"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/ef4ef72c3e3a2fab8a6257f2fc1c47250ba0cc71.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class=""><strong>More save points:</strong> Now you don’t need to worry about getting to specific places like the bathrooms or security room beds to save your game. Every time you enter or exit a new area (usually denoted by a very short loading time) the game autosaves, reducing that previous dread of having to restart from the beginning due to being unexpectedly overrun. It personally meant I took more risks getting around Willamette Mall knowing my mistakes wouldn’t be punished as badly compared to my exploration in the original.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Improved survivor intelligence</strong></h3>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-395992"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://stream.mux.com/nThAJ00IOfo026t1bH6SbiT02juu9Gba88Cxx8ahpX5yWM/capped-1080p.mp4?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJuVGhBSjAwSU9mbzAyNnQxYkg2U2JpVDAyanV1OUdiYTg4Q3h4OGFocFg1eVdNIiwiYXVkIjoidiIsImV4cCI6MTczODAyMTc5Miwia2lkIjoiNEw1eU9janJWMU5VcVZ6Y1V2SkJuMXdUbTRlVEdHOU1oMDIwMVlrNWp1OU5BIn0.bOERo2DsgMUJasINIOhTSGt1d0y4aaq3JwI83dXbszyT6T4DgpA6ldy4LVfhb_h7lIe885RsOSF1ool4w_l0JNmRs4WwVdtyTjP9cdyJYVPmmaGhT-UeeA7jzPuhQSR79Q_ZN1U1DwkdqCrnVIll-BKURl5J_MixYtez2gUnb_6RweIHk6i030hBaKEZ5gqQBfuP5lGOLExZQItUwesaGZoKW7DIgA4UW0sMGyI9K8kwfk0e1gM2DxvssqoKyjTHVHOKACOooALHtmryjZPoB1wLfRdDfvpCgtT-16FaCavF-l4iDqX5yDuP6K27NiDLXNAJpQsoXsiTg7Zz-GOhLg" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class=""><strong>Improved NPC intelligence:</strong> It was all too easy for your fellow survivors to get turned into zombie chow by getting caught on bits of the environment or not following you quickly enough in the original Dead Rising, something Capcom addresses in the Remaster. While you still need to be mindful of their surroundings, the NPCs have better pathfinding intelligence around obstacles, with some areas tweaked to let them navigate better in trickier locations.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Undead aptitude:</strong> The improved AI isn’t limited to survivors, either. Stumble across any of the armed zombie cops and they’ll fire at you. Although thankfully they’re not the best of shots – to be fair, they <em>are</em> aiming with undead eyeballs.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>A better life through the lens</strong></h3>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-395993"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/1a39f0705e836a972fb2be8450cce3b0ecd26b52.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class=""><strong>Get picture perfect:</strong> In all the zombie smashing chaos, it’s easy to forget that Frank’s only in this situation because he wants to get some world-changing snaps. So taking great photos has been made easier with the addition of an auto focus button and the ability to tilt the camera.</p>
<p class=""><strong>More generous Prestige Points (PP):</strong> If the enhanced visuals weren’t excuse enough to take more pictures, better shots now earn larger ability-boosting PP, making it easier and quicker to upgrade Frank and survive a bit longer in the wilds of the Mall.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Updated UI and quality-of-life features</strong></h3>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-395994"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/2272c171a99c38e0d81d4d5df620f89a41a3aa9c.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class=""><strong>Snappy status screens and HUD options:</strong> If navigating the improved mall is a joy, the same can be said for the enhanced UI and menus. The status screen alone is impressive, featuring Frank framed in a viewfinder, breathing, blinking and wearing whatever clothing you’ve donned him in at that moment. </p>
<p class="">With the vast range of tweaks available to the HUD, you can also make the game look as cinematic as you wish. One particularly handy addition is the damage bar beneath each weapon, indicating when your equipped bludgeon will break. So this time if you’re caught lacking in the middle of a fight, it’s entirely your own fault. </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Audio updates</strong></h3>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-395995"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/ecaaa0dcb9e1c84d0c80acf64f009a7761476056.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class=""><strong>All NPCS are voiced:</strong> While being able to switch the mall’s ambient music at any time is a great mood modifier, the real audio game changer comes from the vast amount of spoken dialogue in Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster. Voice acting is ever-present, creating more intuitive and faster interactions, and making it easier to locate some survivors.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Otis isn’t as needy:</strong> VO also changes your relationship with everyone’s favorite mall janitor, Otis. In the original game, answering any of his frequent calls to receive info and new missions prevented Frank from doing almost anything in that moment, including defending himself. If you were attacked, the call would end and Otis would later ring back to scold you for cutting him off… before restarting his previous call info from the start.</p>
<p class="">But now, thanks to Otis being voiced, Frank can answer and listen to his friend’s calls without interruption or concern – and even if you ‘accidentally’ cut Otis off by walking into an area which requires loading, he’s still remarkably chill about it. Phew. And as a little nice bonus, if you activate the Controller Speaker option, you’ll hear his calls through the DualSense controller.</p>
<p class="">You won’t have to wait long to enjoy all these enhancements that make Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster the most memorable trip to the mall you’ll ever experience, when it launches September 19 on PS5. Enjoy your 72 hours…</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/18/god-of-war-ragnarok-brings-a-host-of-new-features-to-pc-available-tomorrow/',
                'God of War Ragnarök brings a host of new features to PC, available tomorrow',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/c31c0e1cae38ef6a23c353e31d87e8b1cd57b700.jpeg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">God of War Ragnarök is available tomorrow on PC. *  </p>
<p class="">All of us at Santa Monica Studio, alongside our development partners at Jetpack Interactive, are thrilled to be able to bring the sequel to God of War (2018) and the final chapter of the Norse saga to all our fans on PC. Alongside a new trailer, we’re also happy to share a short overview of the additional features and support we’ve included for launch.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New features in God of War Ragnarök PC</h2>
<p class="">Debuting in the PC version of the game and soon to be added to the console version are two new settings to help you customize the way you play.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Reduced puzzle hints option</strong></h3>
<p class="">A new option in the Gameplay Settings tab, enabling this will reduce the frequency with which you hear puzzle hints from your companions.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54000930513_7eb77cc31f_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54000930513_7eb77cc31f_h.jpg"/></a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"> <strong>Cinematic Audio Description</strong></h3>
<p class="">Enabling the Audio Description setting under the Audio Accessibility menu will play audio descriptions of visual events during cinematics. These descriptions will provide additional contextual information alongside the spoken dialogue to create a more detailed experience for players with low vision.</p>
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<img alt="God of War Ragnarök brings a host of new features to PC, available tomorrow" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/LokVCSsbFTQ/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Streamer alerts</strong></h3>
<p class="">As a thank you to all of our fans who take the time to stream the game to their friends and communities, we created custom alerts for you to use.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396023"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/3cd8f2fbcb9a1d52ab9afd22f677209fa9383b7e.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">Want Kratos to give your new subscriber a nod or Thor to rejoice at a channel follower? <a href="https://sms.playstation.com/stories/god-of-war-ragnarok-pc-fan-kit">Get the full set or download individually on the Santa Monica Studio website</a>!  </p>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>New follower </li>
<li>New subscriber</li>
<li>New donation</li>
<li>New gifted subscription </li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Fan kit</strong></h3>
<p class="">We’ve got a new fan kit ready for our launch on PC! <a href="https://sms.playstation.com/stories/god-of-war-ragnarok-pc-fan-kit">Head to the Santa Monica Studio website here</a> to get access to social media banners and wallpapers, including ultrawide options for those of you with supported monitors!</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Full fan kit</li>
<li>Wallpapers [16:9] – 4K and 1080p</li>
<li>Wallpapers [ultrawide]</li>
<li>X banners</li>
<li>Facebook banners</li>
</ul>
<p class="">Whether you’re experiencing the final chapter of the Norse saga for the first time or picking it up again on a new platform, we hope your journey back into the Nine Realms and Valhalla is a ton of fun.</p>
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<img alt="God of War Ragnarök brings a host of new features to PC, available tomorrow" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/nBwxyqq1ON4/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<p class="">On behalf of everyone here at Santa Monica Studio and Jetpack Interactive, thank you so much for your continued support.</p>
<p class="">For the latest updates on God of War for PC, make sure you follow Santa Monica Studio on <a href="https://x.com/SonySantaMonica">X</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/santamonicastudio/">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/santamonicastudio">Facebook</a>.</p>
<p class="">If you would like to purchase God of War for PC, it is available tomorrow on both the Steam and Epic Game Store .</p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>*PlayStation Network Account Required</em></p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/19/dragon-ball-sparking-zero-hands-on-report/',
                'Dragon Ball Sparking Zero: hands-on report',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/dd2b41ea34b52c8390d01383e9ecbe16246c564c-scaled.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">The world-famous Dragon Ball saga is no stranger to game adaptations, but there’s one Dragon Ball game series in particular that fans have held in high regard: The Budokai Tenkaichi series. The original Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi debuted on the PlayStation 2 back in 2005, followed by two sequels in 2006 and 2007 and a PSP installment in 2010.</p>
<p class="">Now, after years of fans waxing nostalgic over their love of those classic titles, Bandai Namco Entertainment and developer Spike-Chunsoft are bringing back the much-beloved 3D arena-fighting gameplay of Budokai Tenkaichi in Dragon Ball Sparking Zero – launching on PS5 October 11. We got our hands on a pre-release version of the game, and we’re here to tell you all about the awesome fighting that awaits.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396053"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/f17c8c3d7031e8ede7180b5a1bd1d49e22227062.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>A universe-rocking roster</strong></h2>
<p class="">Dragon Ball is a sprawling saga filled with a menagerie of memorable characters, and one of the first things you’ll notice about Sparking Zero is how huge the selection is. Besides familiar faces from Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z, you’ll be able to control numerous characters from Dragon Ball GT, Dragon Ball Super–and, if you preorder, you’ll have access to Goku (Mini) from the much-anticipated new Dragon Ball DAIMA series. Several characters have variations and transformations that reflect their growth over the series’ timeline, and these can be dramatically different from each other. Taking into account all of the characters, variations, fusions, and transformations, Sparking Zero’s starting roster is a whopping 181 playable characters.</p>
<p class="">But don’t feel intimidated by the amount of choices you have: many of the base controls are shared between characters, so you should be able to pick up a new character quite easily. You can also equip various capsule items acquired in the in-game shop to bolster your characters’ base abilities if you want to give yourself a bit of a boost, along with cosmetic items to up your aesthetic power level.</p>
<p class="">There’s a lot to do in Sparking Zero, but perhaps the best place to start is the Episode Battle, which has you playing through some of the series’ most important sagas through the eyes of its most prominent heroes–or villains. We tried out a few characters in this mode: Goku’s story and combat were a fairly simple introduction to the game’s mechanics, while characters like Frieza and Goku Black faced significantly more challenging one-against-many fights from early on. Depending on how fights go and the narrative choices you make, you might see the well-loved stories take some unexpected new directions.</p>
<p class="">If you’d prefer to get straight into battle, Tournament Mode is also open from the get-go. Here you can play recreations of famous events like the Cell Games and the Tournament of Power. You can even set up your own rules and fantasy bracket if you’d like.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396054"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/2f5328b6cd95b5be68d3fa00825c9dbeaed22c67.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>We fight like Saiyans</strong></h2>
<p class="">When you leap into a battle, you’ll be using 3D space to move in every direction to get the advantage over your foe as you dash, fly, attack, fire energy blasts, charge your ki, and react to your opponent’s actions. It feels incredible to utilize your combat techniques and the environment skillfully to get the upper hand over a dangerous foe.</p>
<p class="">The Skill Count gauge charges up over the course of battle (indicated by a blue elliptical bar separate from your life and ki meters), and a large number shows your stock of charged skill bars. Certain combat abilities, like the new attack-absorbing Revenge Counter and transformations, require skill stocks, as well as bespoke abilities unique to each character, like Goku’s famous Kaioken, that give effects like stat buffs and movement boosts. </p>
<p class="">The visuals add tremendously to the experience, as well: as battles progress and heavy blows are exchanged, you’ll see certain characters become scuffed up and dirty, with torn and tattered clothes indicating just how fierce the fighting has become. Environments transform in realtime from the effects of energy surges and super-powered blows. When characters use skills and special attacks, you’ll see close-ups and visual flourishes that call upon some of the series’ most memorable and iconic images.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396055"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://stream.mux.com/LlZQgnz6e1fu9pJrHLzXNW00zcdV6wwdjKWymKmG1JDc/capped-1080p.mp4?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJMbFpRZ256NmUxZnU5cEpySEx6WE5XMDB6Y2RWNnd3ZGpLV3ltS21HMUpEYyIsImF1ZCI6InYiLCJleHAiOjE3MzgwMjE3OTUsImtpZCI6IjRMNXlPY2pyVjFOVXFWemNVdkpCbjF3VG00ZVRHRzlNaDAyMDFZazVqdTlOQSJ9.ZomriAil8FxMhb91LoSHvNNFa0usOJisaoRrCS4AvJS25ku7-tbZOAc6Pv7mxbWxsKPZGCAdq8KY0NrRaxlwCIJOtFUo7yJ4HXT4dyu0f6bAtd64GHDg6jucHx6PV7xAZ_QOMuBA-zYuRtg6WKriSLNEElHda0A_LtjfaGtESwQTNrfcicg93olYA7DfMDVQFUfTChrbG4s7sOccBfDIw3fTmrbJEWWRfG6uE3QiWFhgFpJPkjKs0BnOWTIglbZs8FYd_eA5SnF8CA041UtuVzV52J3q3W1ibeYLSgDVG5Ef7PNotreHqEzvzmU79Fwm6yxFcT6ODoyJ1vLa53N6cA" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Wishing dream battles into reality</strong></h2>
<p class="">The new Custom Battle mode lets you craft your own stories and battle scenarios. Select the player and enemy characters, add in some special settings (like setting lower health or turning transformations off). You can customize more than just the gameplay, too: the music, the intro and ending cinematics — you can even add some mid-battle twists for a dramatic flourish if you want. If you need some inspiration, there are plenty of pre-made Bonus Battles designed by the developers to give you some ideas. Once you’ve made your epic encounter, you can upload it and share it with other Dragon Ball fans across the globe.</p>
<p class="">As you create your battles and set up your dream matches, you’ll see firsthand just how many cool inter-character dialogue elements and interactions Sparking! Zero features. With such a huge roster, you’ll be able to have fights and team-ups between characters who would have never met in canon–and you might be surprised at some of their conversations!</p>
<p class="">We asked the game’s director, Jun Furutani, about these fun dialogue bits. “It’s really interesting to see the special interactions between two characters with similar backgrounds who would have never met in canon,” he says. “But there are surprises, too–take the villains Baby and Zamasu. Baby’s goal is to control life, while Zamasu’s is destroying all living things. Those two ideas can’t coexist, so when you bring them together, you’ll see a very cool interaction. We want players to try out all sorts of combinations and see what they find.”</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396056"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/4d93c28c4a6400bfcbdef23585830fed5dd51b74.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">Thankfully, you won’t have to wait much longer to see your most wished-for bouts come alive. Dragon Ball Sparking! Zero will debut on October 11, with Deluxe Edition and Ultimate Edition owners able to play three days earlier.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/19/dragon-age-the-veilguard-hands-on-report/',
                'Dragon Age: The Veilguard – hands-on report',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/b4831ef98fd74e987346978d759a2d058b979c4e.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">BioWare’s lore-rich fantasy RPG series makes its long-awaited return when <a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/dragon-age-the-veilguard/">Dragon Age: The Veilguard</a> comes to PS5 on October 31, after nearly a decade since the last installment. The Veilguard takes place across the northern region of Thedas, giving players a chance to finally explore the magical city of Tevinter. As a first-time visitor to Thedas’ world of magic, my recent hands-on with the game was an enlightening introduction to the deep storytelling of the series grounded by the game’s intuitive real-time combat and enchanting visuals. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Customize everything</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396063"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/f800c4279fd8b6138c041b63ec797fc96d9c6bdc.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">My hands-on journey began by thoroughly exploring The Veilguard’s extensive character creator, following an opening animation highlighting where the story left off in Dragon Age: Inquisition. The Dragon Age series is known to offer highly detailed character customization, but I was surprised to see just how in-depth The Veilguard went with options to customize nearly every physical aspect of your character, from diverse head and body shapes to tattoos (options for face and full body), make-up, and facial scars. In particular, the various hair textures shown in the selection of close to 100 hairstyles look so detailed and realistic that you can see the care developers put into each hair follicle.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396064"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/7d3be3b0e3b86bc88b42e1bd4c98cdf069fcfc60.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">Once I finished customizing my character for nearly half an hour (I could have spent hours on this), I played around with the new lighting preview feature. The new feature allows you to see your character in up to four different lighting settings to ensure your creation is faithful to your vision before you commence your journey through Thedas.</p>
<p class="">Similar to past games in the series the character creator is where you choose your combatant’s race and class. Additionally, The Veilguard adds a feature to pick between six Factions, including options for Grey Wardens, Veil Jumpers, Shadow Dragons, Lords of Fortune, the Mourn Watch, and Antivan Crows. Be sure to select carefully as a chosen Faction directly influences a character’s unique backstory and even future dialogue choices.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Combat with companions</h2>
<p class="">The fast-paced and intuitive combat in Dragon Age: The Veilguard was the cherry on top of my experience with the game. As a self-described beginner when it comes to most game genres, the combat controls were easy enough to pick up while providing a high ceiling for the more advanced players to put together combo attacks with companions.</p>
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<p class="">In Dragon Age: The Veilguard you control your companion’s abilities through the new Ability Wheel, as opposed to switching between and fully controlling your party members like you could in Dragon Age: Inquisition. Pulling up the Ability Wheel halts the action and lets you trigger your personal and companions’ abilities. Switching between real-time combat and the Ability Wheel felt natural and served as a quick break from all-out action, giving me a chance to plan combo attacks with companions or trigger my own abilities. Punctuating combo attacks by unleashing an Ultimate ability served as one of the more satisfying tenets of the gameplay experience, though it was rare I was able to pull off such a feat.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trek through Thedas</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396071"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/9cb6f23ef4074c1d239db1ba20a76a45d8ac6f0f.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">Stepping foot in Minrathous, the capital of Tevinter, players are met with vivid colors and an impressively expansive depth of field. From the finely tuned details of raindrops splashing into puddles and broken-up concrete, to the sky-high architecture and statues seen from a distance, the visual fidelity of The Veilguard is truly immersive and encourages exploring freely.</p>
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<p class="">The graphics especially shine when you’re tasked to travel through the Arlathan Forest to find missing Veil Jumpers. The contrast in color of the shadow-casting trees is highlighted by sunlight peering through their branches, showing the attention to detail paid by the developers in terms of lighting and photorealism in varied environments.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Friends help friends</h2>
<p class="">Each companion I met on my voyage through Thedas made an impression and drew me deeper into the story, though my limited playing time didn’t allow me to meet the whole cast. </p>
<p class="">“The companions are really the stars of the show just as much as anyone else,” John Epler, Creative Director, BioWare.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396076"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://stream.mux.com/ipWPxlJul00M6Bb6PdWpvzOD85Mz7Y3yh012rrjmsmefU/capped-1080p.mp4?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJpcFdQeGxKdWwwME02QmI2UGRXcHZ6T0Q4NU16N1kzeWgwMTJycmptc21lZlUiLCJhdWQiOiJ2IiwiZXhwIjoxNzM4MDIxNzk2LCJraWQiOiI0TDV5T2NqclYxTlVxVnpjVXZKQm4xd1RtNGVUR0c5TWgwMjAxWWs1anU5TkEifQ.NeQydQefTjQT5mjHzz7E-7NUGwfM5pBGXSPPi5H3QoaLv809IXmanJ6QtPXyZLn2lbRCd_qOwQ4KW2KODIVGGzo4DoqRRaESoAI_Vf0_mUbm0RKOBF4F0UEx5tSG6QmQi9I-YZJY_jM-x7dLXgfnXNSTEOk4jAesa1LvjxxT729PxcRTH2QBm5NOoo1YdfQbI4JQjKrps1YAdYGPdhCrHCT2dDs4bKMXXKGEBeLxDGq4s7u6NOvItPgx6tFG0lcZfzkvCVJghFeJ2BD3wo-CzVVfWRsYYzpamYuiz9fQeffkz32PQdqXEsnaa4kyP2YOndXw-4a_uv_igLg9WDtSeg" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">Early on you’ll meet Neve Gallus, the self-assured private investigator who helps locate Solas to prevent a major catastrophe from ensuing in the game’s prologue. Born and raised in Minrathous, Neve’s confident demeanor helps guide the team through Tevinter early in the game, and her Ice Breaker ability that rains down shards of ice on foes was a joy to activate.</p>
<p class="">There’s so much to chew on when it comes to the depth of the character creator, RPG elements, and real-time combat in The Veilguard, but being able to quickly grasp the action basics allowed me to immerse in the world. The Veil between Thedas and the Fade lifts this Halloween, when Dragon Age: The Veilguard releases October 31 on PS5.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/20/share-of-the-week-astro-bot-abilities/',
                'Share of the Week: Astro Bot – Abilities',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/1d8b06c0690cc2531e6fa87fd874f42d654d1a7f.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Last week, we asked you to take Astro Bot’s new abilities for a spin using #PSshare #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights:</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54006289875_25214509be_o.png" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54006289875_25214509be_o.png" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/Evo_Pixel/status/1836083892442259819/photo/1"><em>Evo_Pixel</em></a><em> shares Astro packing a punch with the Frog Gloves.</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54006093623_82d25644e2_o.png" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54006093623_82d25644e2_o.png" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/shimo_ps/status/1834865429145436559/photo/1"><em>shimo_ps</em></a><em> </em><em>shares Astro blowing up to new heights with the Octo-Balloon.</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54005864376_6339708894_o.png" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54005864376_6339708894_o.png" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/kanon06/status/1835761402285527548/photo/1"><em>kanon06</em></a><em> shares Astro shrunken down with the Mouse ability.</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54006195019_c2393f731e_o.png" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54006195019_c2393f731e_o.png" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/AutomotiveVP/status/1835753556089159682/photo/3"><em>AutomotiveVP</em></a><em> shares Astro blasting upwards with the Chicken rocket.</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54006195034_991ddf1dac_o.png" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54006195034_991ddf1dac_o.png" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/Doodlesgtm/status/1834845880282738844/photo/1"><em>Doodlesgtm</em></a><em> shares Astro pausing the scenery with the Time-Stopper ability.</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54006195039_9d798c46c5_o.png" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54006195039_9d798c46c5_o.png" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/KTKomedy2813/status/1834672084577927274/photo/1"><em>KTKomedy2813</em></a><em> </em><em>shares Astro soaking up in size with the Sponge ability.</em></p>
<p class="">Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week?</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54006195029_e328ee6ffb_o.png" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54006195029_e328ee6ffb_o.png" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">THEME: Astro Bot – VIP Bots<br/>SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on September 25, 2024 </p>
<p class="">Next week, we’re rescuing some familiar faces in Astro Bot. Share moments with your favorite VIP Bots using #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/23/sop-092324/',
                '(For Southeast Asia) State of Play returns tomorrow',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/403c194a535407eb8f941a29c0c53f630f9b934d.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">State of Play is back on September 25! Tune in live for news and updates on more than 20 upcoming PS5 and PS VR2 games from studios around the world.</p>
<p class="">The 30+ minute show begins September 25 at 5:00am (Bangkok / Jakarta) / 6:00am (Singapore / Kuala Lumpur / Manila) YouTube and Twitch, and will be broadcast in English and Japanese. See you tomorrow!</p>
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<p class="">Regarding co-streaming and video-on-demand (VOD)</p>
<p class="">Please note that this broadcast may include copyrighted content (e.g. licensed music) that PlayStation does not control. We welcome and celebrate our amazing co-streamers and creators, but licensing agreements outside our control could interfere with co-streams or VOD archives of this broadcast. If you’re planning to save this broadcast as a VOD to create recap videos, or to repost clips or segments from the show, we advise omitting any copyrighted music.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/23/state-of-play-returns-tomorrow/',
                'State of Play returns today',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/db3cd6df6eecb206b80d60526f72ddcd0385216e.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">State of Play is back tomorrow, September 24! Tune in live for news and updates on more than 20 upcoming PS5 and PS VR2 games from studios around the world.</p>
<p class="">The 30+ minute show begins September 24 at 3pm PT / 6pm ET | September 25 12am CEST / 7am JST on YouTube and Twitch, and will be broadcast in English and Japanese. See you tomorrow!</p>
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</div>
</div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Regarding co-streaming and video-on-demand (VOD)</h2>
<p class="">Please note that this broadcast may include copyrighted content (e.g. licensed music) that PlayStation does not control. We welcome and celebrate our amazing co-streamers and creators, but licensing agreements outside our control could interfere with co-streams or VOD archives of this broadcast. If you’re planning to save this broadcast as a VOD to create recap videos, or to repost clips or segments from the show, we advise omitting any copyrighted music.</p>
<hr class="ps-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/the-midnight-walk-is-coming-to-ps5-and-ps-vr2-next-year/',
                'The Midnight Walk is coming to PS5 and PS VR2 next year',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/5ac90959d41bcc29801fdc048a56d28b19756bcf.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Moonhood is over the moon to announce The Midnight Walk – a dark fantasy adventure made of clay, coming to PS5 and PS VR2!</p>
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<img alt="The Midnight Walk is coming to PS5 and PS VR2 next year" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/QnBE7mU6ZsI/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<p class="">Imagine waking up in a handcrafted world, where every fingerprint can be spotted up close, every molded twist and turn of clay visible on the ground you walk… and on the monsters trying to eat you.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019678813_f3ec9b6c69_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image is an in-game screen of the lantern creature Potboy, flame flicking atop his oversized, circular head, staring at the viewer. In the background is a dark landscape with moon-like planet floating in the skies above a distant mountain." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019678813_f3ec9b6c69_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Explore a world of light and dark</strong></h2>
<p class="">In the Midnight Walk, you awake as The Burnt One, a mysterious being who’s dug themselves out of a muddy grave to find their purpose. They find it in Potboy – a little dormant lantern creature that you reignite and bring back to life.</p>
<p class="">Together you must venture down the Midnight Walk – a perilous, nightmarish highway and, along the way, survive five strange tales about fire; its lifegiving warmth as well as its inherent danger. You’ll outsmart ghoulish enemies, meet a fantastical cast of companions, and gaze in wonder at our hand-crafted world. That’s right; every asset in the game was first sculpted in clay before being 3D-scanned into the game and animated in a stop motion style!</p>
<p class="">But how did we at Moonhood come to create such a strange adventure?</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018551262_8330a8dc25_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows Potboy standing in a forest, looking up towards a huge, hulking creature, the head and shoulders of which sprout jagged pillars seemingly containing windows carved into them." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018551262_8330a8dc25_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The origins of The Midnight Walk</strong></h2>
<p class="">Not long ago Klaus Lyngeled and I were both going through a creative drought after finishing co-directing our last project, Lost in Random. How do you follow up on a massive game like that? We asked ourselves, and went looking to rediscover that spark.</p>
<p class="">While I went back to drawing comics, Klaus started working in clay again, creating sculptures and 3D-scanning them!</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019450586_731df0de71_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019450586_731df0de71_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019891605_7048d8c987_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="These images show Klaus moulding one of the game’s characters out of clay." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019891605_7048d8c987_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">One day he came to me with a little creature built in clay; a childlike humanoid with a flame coming out of its head. We immediately started talking about a game where you’d have to protect this little creature as you journeyed through a dark fairytale world, filled with fire-eating monsters who want to devour you and your flame.</p>
<p class="">And as that little flame creature came to life in our first playable mockup demo, so was a spark relit in both me and Klaus. The creation of the Midnight Walk was underway – and we haven’t looked back since.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019450606_2ab3846de4_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This images shows Potboy encountering a character called Soul Fisher, who sits beside a campfire. Floating above them is an oversized open book, the pages of which are illuminated by the fire’s glow." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019450606_2ab3846de4_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Join us on the journey</strong></h2>
<p class="">We’ve made games for many years together, but never have we been able to stay this true to our original vision – and to ourselves. This game is shaping up to be something truly beautiful and we can’t wait to put this piece of frightful poetry in your hands.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018551287_0917923f10_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018551287_0917923f10_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019891625_904affc98f_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows further work of the studio moulding characters out of clay ahead of them being scanned into the game, as well as sketching out ideas for further characters. " src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019891625_904affc98f_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">We’ll have much more to share on the game as we head towards launch, and we can’t wait to share more details and a look at exactly how we brought this world to life. For now, all you need to know is that The Midnight Walk is coming in Spring 2025 to PS5 and PS VR2!</p>
<p class="">And until next time, sign up for our newsletter at <a href="http://www.moonhood.se/">www.moonhood.se</a> and follow us on social media!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019786034_e6f6bcdefb_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows Moonhood’s Klaus Lyngeled (left) and Olov Redmalm (right) sitting in front of the clay model versions of the characters" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019786034_e6f6bcdefb_h.jpg"/></a>
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                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/astro-bot-new-speedrun-levels-and-special-bots-arrive-starting-this-fall/',
                'Astro Bot: New speedrun levels and Special Bots arrive starting this Fall',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/028f403bbb28c5b3b14627a3978ac3cf00f695f9.png?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Hi everyone, it’s a great pleasure to see you again and bring some fresh Astro Bot news.</p>
<p class="">Before anything, we wanted to take a minute to thank everyone of you for the huge love and positive comments we received following the game’s release on September 6. We could not possibly be happier with the reception and the little robots at Team Asobi almost short-circuited from so many tears of joy!</p>
<p class="">We also laughed a lot at the many funny videos of the game that we saw popping up. We are glad we could succeed in bringing a little bit of digital sunshine to homes around the world. For all your support, trust, and kindness and from all of us at Team Asobi, doumo arigatou gozaimasu (thank you very much)! </p>
<p class="">Today, we have a little surprise for you! From this fall, we’re happy to announce that Astro Bot will receive 5 brand new speedrun levels, at no additional cost. Check out our new teaser trailer below for a sneak peek at what’s in store. Many of you asked for the return of speedrun levels so we hope you enjoy those. Time to sharpen those jumping skills and shave milli-seconds at every turn!</p>
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<p class="">To go alongside these extra levels, there will be 10 new Special Bots for you to rescue. These are obtained by beating cheeky birds racing against Astro. We’re super happy to welcome the Helldivers squad who will bring super democracy to the crash site as well as Eve from slick and delightful PS5 hit Stellar Blade! You’ll have to find out who the other ones are!</p>
<p class="">And of course, there will be leaderboards so that you can compete online with the whole community or with close PlayStation friends. </p>
<p class="">To wrap this up, let us say that having a chance to create a fun, colorful platformer that pays tribute to 30 years of Playstation legacy has been an incredible privilege, one that all members of Team Asobi take very much at heart. Thank you for embarking with us on Astro’s great new adventure! </p>
<p class="">Team Asobi out.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/hell-is-us-first-gameplay-of-the-ps5-action-adventure-out-2025/',
                'Hell is Us: first gameplay of the PS5 action adventure, out 2025',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/995ffd6ba1ee35eb2d00ed976c54662b02bac97d.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Hello everyone, I’m Jonathan Jacques-Belletête, Creative Director and Art Director at Rogue Factor, and today, I’m excited to take you behind the scenes of our latest project: Hell is Us (HiU). This game represents a bold evolution in how we design our gaming experiences, and I’m thrilled to share with you the elements that make HiU a truly unique adventure.</p>
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<img alt="Hell is Us: first gameplay of the PS5 action adventure, out 2025 " height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/it9wGffvYGM/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<p class=""><strong><br/></strong>We revealed the first gameplay footage of our game in today’s State of Play and we’re thrilled to hear your thoughts on it. We hope you enjoyed the sneak peek! This marks the beginning of our communication journey about Hell is Us, and we can’t wait to share more with you. Today, I’d like to tell you about a core concept of our game, which is very close to my heart, and that truly defines the Hell is Us experience and identity.</p>
<p class="">Just before we get to this topic, if you haven’t heard about it, HiU is a third-person action-adventure game set in a complex world that will challenge your intellect while, we hope, delivering a compelling and mature story. The game explores deep themes like civil war, human emotions, and family. So, let’s dive right in!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019787984_1beff23f3a_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="In this image, the protagonist gazes upwards at a large wall in front of them, in the centre of which is a dark, hollowed rectangle hole. To their right stands a staircase chiseled into the stone wall." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019787984_1beff23f3a_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>An uncompromising immersive experience</strong></h2>
<p class="">With Hell is Us, we decided to break away from conventional norms to offer something radically different. Unlike many modern games that guide players with detailed maps, quest markers, quest journals, and constant assistance, we’ve chosen to eliminate these traditional aids altogether.</p>
<p class="">In Hell is Us, you won’t have a magical map or compass revealing all points of interest surrounding you, no markers identifying your next quest objective, and no artificial or mechanical guides to orient you. Instead, we invite you to dive directly into the game’s universe and rely on your own observation, reasoning, and intuition to progress. The environments are not there simply to decorate, they are there to communicate. Correspondingly, paying attention to what the NPCs tell you is crucial; as what they tell you is actual organic information about what to do and how to do it.</p>
<p class="">We call this concept “Player-Plattering”, as it is the opposite of “Silver-Plattering”. It represents our deliberate choice not to serve everything to the player on a silver platter with ready-made directions and answers. Instead, we want the player to regain full control of their adventure by exploring, discovering, and deciding for themselves.</p>
<p class="">Although this choice is bold, it aims to create a deeply immersive gameplay experience. You’ll need to explore every corner of our world, pay attention to even the smallest clues, and be creative in solving the investigation that lies ahead. We firmly believe that this approach enhances immersion, plunging you into an adventure where every discovery is the result of your own cognitive effort. We want to bring back the true, old school, joy of exploring and discovering.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396289"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://stream.mux.com/mVR4HzGs3C3wecHhdohUoCrBBB02p00SHQdutX9SRLMQQ/capped-1080p.mp4?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJtVlI0SHpHczNDM3dlY0hoZG9oVW9DckJCQjAycDAwU0hRZHV0WDlTUkxNUVEiLCJhdWQiOiJ2IiwiZXhwIjoxNzM4MDIxODA5LCJraWQiOiI0TDV5T2NqclYxTlVxVnpjVXZKQm4xd1RtNGVUR0c5TWgwMjAxWWs1anU5TkEifQ.U8CjNzKNk2nrx-uDKcQR4kTKtFzvSHNDeG8jl0a7w9omHG6b6hNvU2TlN-rje2Kf9VGGNSWh90pVPfQBXrrGD_ge6p3_rJ5Mw-CV90TEHk9ILEt5Lj2bylxxVDl7e7_5hBNCqGYbHTec6BYX1RXIGZNivB2nQ-quQqGenyE_sEJF3YXMhiuOytqSwDh_mpP-HsCeG_MOWfvhXPdxCnzT6dq5zRXGv-CNM8LneCS_plMF2nzeBCJ-Tu6HJkqgg3CB9AVTOfkZU6xhptTIm-pMxM2ghPA8PguAAYcUIWYlKRd-FLm4X7qnEjmPBtQh7yxVC5VrqjS4pQmZavxZeNncsA" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1920 / 1080;"></video></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Investigation and secrets resolution and interactions</strong></h2>
<p class="">The way you progress through your investigation in Hell is Us is also an extension of our player autonomy philosophy. The investigative challenges you’ll encounter aren’t solved by obvious clues, or mechanical reminders. On the contrary, you’ll need to explore and interact with the world proactively to uncover leads and solutions. This approach encourages observation, attention, cognition and total immersion in the gameplay.</p>
<p class="">We’ve designed the investigation and the many secrets to offer multiple paths leading to various solutions, allowing players to discover and resolve the investigative challenges in different possible ways. The satisfaction of overcoming an obstacle on your own is, in our opinion, a fundamental part of the gaming experience, and the true essence and catalyst of player-made discoveries.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019788004_89f4a079bc_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows the protagonist observing a radial-like gate that’s part of a wider, wilder, fauna-covered wall." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019788004_89f4a079bc_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The vision behind HiU and what it brings</strong></h2>
<p class="">As you may have gathered, our design choice of “Player-Plattering,” aims to encourage exploration and reflection, which is at the heart of what we want to achieve with Hell is Us.</p>
<p class="">This philosophy fits perfectly into the world we’ve created: a complex and unforgiving universe that explores deep themes such as civil war, human violence and brutality, human emotions, and family, all within a context blending reality and mysterious phenomena.</p>
<p class="">It was essential that the gameplay reflects the maturity of the themes addressed. That’s why we didn’t want players to simply follow a predefined path without understanding the reasons behind it or grasping the significance of the events. Instead, they’ll need to think critically and creatively to shape their own journey.</p>
<p class="">We believe this approach, decidedly “old school,” returns to the roots of video games that sparked our passion for the genre. While we’ve integrated many modern advancements to enrich the gameplay experience, we want to offer an adventure that values the intelligence and intuition of the players. With Hell is Us, our goal is for each player to engage fully, both emotionally and intellectually, and experience an unforgettable journey, comparable to those that forged our love for video games, all the way back to the 1990s. We hope the game leaves a lasting impression in the same way those classics have left an indelible mark on us.</p>
<p class="">We’re eager to see how you, the players, will explore and discover this universe by keeping your eyes wide open, and your ears sharply tuned!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019893515_65feafe034_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows the protagonist inside a cave-like room. Stalactites hang down from the ceiling, and at a nearby wall is multiple oval gaps containing shelving. In their middle is a large face carved into the wall." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019893515_65feafe034_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">If Hell is Us caught your eye and you’re eager to learn more, don’t miss our exclusive YouTube Premiere on Monday, 30 September, at 8am PT / 4pm BST / 5pm CEST on the Nacon channel! Join me as I dive deeper into Hell is Us and showcase more gameplay. The game launches on PS5 in 2025.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/archeage-chronicles-new-gameplay-details-on-the-online-ps5-action-rpg-coming-2025/',
                'ArcheAge Chronicles: new gameplay details on the online PS5 action RPG, coming 2025',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/264ebc1c37696acdb207774e1301c2bf26c2de37.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Hello, PlayStation fans! I’m Yongjin Ham, the executive producer of ArcheAge Chronicles (formerly known as ArcheAge 2) at XLGames. I’m excited to share the latest updates about our game in today’s official reveal.</p>
<p class="">First and foremost, we’re excited to introduce the next installment in the ArcheAge series – ArcheAge Chronicles. As an online action RPG, ArcheAge Chronicles promises to deliver a more immersive experience with a strong emphasis on action combat. The game will feature epic large-scale raids and cooperative gameplay, offering a diverse array of activities for players to enjoy on PS5.</p>
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<img alt="ArcheAge Chronicles: new gameplay details on the online PS5 action RPG, coming 2025" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/UeRY7LU0x3M/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>A world of story and adventure</strong></h2>
<p class="">It is the Age of Pioneers. Auroria, a legend long forgotten, has been rediscovered. Now, many hopeful pioneers are headed to this distant land to make a name for themselves. As you embark on this new adventure, you will explore ancient ruins, investigate a catastrophic airship crash, and become embroiled in the web of intrigue surrounding the mysterious and tragic event. Along the way you will meet many characters shrouded in mystery, each with their own secrets and goals. Who will help you and who will stand against you as you experience the unfolding story of Auroria in ArcheAge Chronicles?</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A massive world ripe for exploration</h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019472111_f1fa544243_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows a dragon wreathed in flame." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019472111_f1fa544243_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Challenge yourself in the new open world of ArcheAge, reflecting our vision to provide an innovative gameplay experience. ArcheAge Chronicles will allow you to connect and adventure with friends and players worldwide. The game will emphasize exploration and life skills, ensuring there is always something new to discover and new skills to master.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Housing and life skills</h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019700273_a7559e44c9_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows an armoured adventurer leaping towards a larger, bloated, three-headed enemy. Around them, ready to strike, are multiple, withered humanoid enemy types, all with glowing eyes." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019700273_a7559e44c9_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">In ArcheAge Chronicles, housing will be a cornerstone feature, enabling players to build and customize their own homes. Transitioning from the previous open-world model, ArcheAge Chronicles now features dedicated housing zones where players can showcase their creativity and achievements. Additionally, the game enables multiple players to come together to form vibrant, town-like communities. Furthermore, ArcheAge Chronicles offers a rich variety of life skills, such as farming, crafting, and trading, providing numerous ways to engage with the game world and its economy.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Combat and gameplay enhancements</strong></h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019472116_e9766ea5b8_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This images shows a group of adventurers work together to take down a hulking, heavily armoured enemy that holds a massive hammer." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019472116_e9766ea5b8_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Instinctive and spectacular combat is a core feature of the ArcheAge series. In ArcheAge Chronicles, you’ll experience a refined combat system, presenting strategic choices during battle. Engage in fierce combos, elemental attacks, and clever defense tactics together with highly maneuverable characters. With a team of ten or more players, you’ll unleash even greater synergies. Master chain skills in sync with your team to take down even the most formidable raid bosses. From small monsters to massive bosses, every encounter is designed to be memorable and challenging.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>New and familiar locations</strong></h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019807079_c16f1f25c0_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows three figures conversing in a workshop. Around them sits scrolls, cogs and sketches." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019807079_c16f1f25c0_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">In ArcheAge Chronicles, venture into exciting new realms beyond the original ArcheAge universe. Explore primal natural environments and uncover remnants of ancient ruins. This upcoming release in the ArcheAge universe is set to introduce more stunning and mysterious locations than ever before.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Stay tuned</strong></h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019912735_8b536e3fb0_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows a character clutching an axe." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019912735_8b536e3fb0_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">A wealth of information will be shared through our community channels in the coming days, so please stay tuned and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. We invite you all to return to the world of ArcheAge and look forward to your continued support.</p>
<p class="">Thank you.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/lunar-remastered-collection-launches-on-ps5-and-ps4-spring-2025/',
                'Lunar Remastered Collection launches on PS5 and PS4 Spring 2025',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/1b496dfae783fd1ea80fc6e7ead078c92c7e1527.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">From the publishers of Grandia HD Collection and the original creators of Grandia and Grandia II, we’re happy to announce Lunar Remastered Collection—a compilation of two legendary JRPGs, Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete and Lunar 2: Eternal Blue Complete—now with updated graphics, sound, and new quality-of-life improvements.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The series that started it all</strong></h2>
<p class="">When the games first released in the ‘90s, Lunar was a pioneer of its time, often credited as being one of the first JRPGs to become popular in the West. With the upcoming release of Lunar Remastered Collection, we invite you to experience (or re-experience) this iconic title that shaped the JRPG genre.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019697763_1034e6f902_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows a group of characters exploring a town." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019697763_1034e6f902_o.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>A timeless classic, reimagined</strong></h2>
<p class="">The remastered edition brings a host of exciting upgrades, including widescreen support, enhanced pixel art, HD animated cutscenes, and all-new English voice acting. Players can choose to either go old school with the original visuals or go remastered for a more modern look. Plus, a new toggle feature allows players to speed up battles, giving them more control over the pace of their adventure, while improved strategy settings make combat even more convenient. And for the first time in the series, Lunar will be available in two additional languages: German and French, alongside English and Japanese.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019469606_469f7b4ee2_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows a party battling a Yeti. To the top right of screen, the UI denotes the battle’s speed, as the player can use L2 or R2 to speed up or slow down the clash." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019469606_469f7b4ee2_o.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The adventure begins – Lunar: Silver Star Story</strong></h2>
<p class="">Lunar: Silver Star Story begins in the quiet village of Burg, where a boy named Alex dreams of grand adventures inspired by the tale of Dragonmaster Dyne. Enticed by adventure and treasure, Alex and his friends set off on a quest, but with the sudden emergence of the Magic Emperor who wishes to control the world, it’s up to them to fight the rising evil and save the world from peril.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018570387_83dc011849_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This shows characters conversing with a white dragon. On-screen dialogue from the dragon states: “You may begin, children, Your future now rests squarely in your own diminutive hands.”" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018570387_83dc011849_o.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The legacy continues – Lunar</strong> <strong>2: Eternal Blue</strong></h2>
<p class="">Set 1000 years after Lunar: Silver Star Story, Lunar 2: Eternal Blue follows a young adventurer named Hiro, who encounters a mysterious visitor from the Blue Star while exploring an ancient tower. Named Lucia, she insists that she be taken to the ruler of their world, Goddess Althena. Together, Hiro and Lucia encounter the best of allies, the worst of enemies, and the darkest forces of destruction that threaten the whole of creation. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019469586_1ba28f184b_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows a character hanging upside down from a rope. Flames rage on the floor below them. On-screen dialogue from the character states: “Oh no! The exit’s closing. Hurry!”" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019469586_1ba28f184b_o.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The plot thickens</strong></h2>
<p class="">The Lunar series tells a classic tale of a young adventurer with a fluffy sidekick, who falls in love with a girl who may or may not be immortal. What begins as a light-hearted quest quickly takes a dark turn with the rise of an evil villain, subsequently placing the fate of the entire world in the hero’s hands. This timeless story, filled with dragons, swords, and treasures, is brought to life by an unforgettable cast of characters—from a young priestess who acts the perfect heiress at home but has a fiery temper, to a tragic villain who nevertheless has a flair for the dramatic. The games’ straightforward and effortless storytelling, combined with thoughtful character development, gives Lunar its unique charm and enduring appeal.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019469591_435b011bc0_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This shows characters wandering through a woodland village." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019469591_435b011bc0_o.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Iconic art</strong></h2>
<p class="">The allure of Lunar also lies in its amazing artwork in both the anime cutscenes and 2D pixel art. The blend of these two distinct art styles in the battles, events, and anime cutscenes made it a standout title when it first released. Even today, Lunar’s ‘90s anime aesthetic holds up well in quality, and we’ve polished it even further for this remaster. This retro art style is a rarity nowadays, and playing this game will surely satiate your appetite for ‘90s throwbacks.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018570392_496be8ab23_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows a still from one of the game’s animated scenes." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018570392_496be8ab23_o.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">With a little over 25 years having passed since Lunar 2: Eternal Blue Complete released on the original PlayStation, it is with great pride that we announce that the Lunar series will be returning to PlayStation with the Lunar Remastered Collection. Experience the revival of this quintessential JRPG classic when it releases Spring 2025 on PS4 and PS5. </p>
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                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/radical-reptiles-dlc-crawls-into-tmnt-shredders-revenge-today/',
                'Radical Reptiles DLC crawls into TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge today',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/79897d3c3aff848285971c52470d3223bf3fa7cb.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Exciting news for TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge fans! The Radical Reptiles DLC introduces two new characters: Mona Lisa and Mondo Gecko. Mona Lisa, a once-human scientist turned mutant salamander, brings her cheery attitude to battle against the Foot Clan and Mondo Gecko, the coolest cement-surfing mutant, are joining forces in this action-packed DLC. </p>
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<p class="">Let’s dive into the production, gameplay features, and design aspects of these new playable characters.</p>
<p class="center"><img alt="" src="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExaXV2d3ZvMWN4eWFydjkwNGs1cGJwaG5hNWc4Zmd0bWhmaGtzcHFjMSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZfYnlfaWQmY3Q9Zw/Lrvyg2cN3qe5HUrt8h/giphy.gif"/></p>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Real Time animation of Mona Lisa’s dodge special attack, slowed rendered version</em></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mona Lisa</strong></h2>
<p class="">Despite her limited screen time, this lizard lady has always been a fan favorite for her distinct personality. Mona boasts a unique Fling Slam, Super Flying Kick, and multiple projectile attacks with special breaking animations, making her a beginner-friendly, ranged character. Her science background is expressed through her chemistry equipment, and fun details like her 90s toy Blowfish Mace are included to delight fans.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019483671_dcb0b1e230_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows development sketches of Mona Lisa’s movements and poses. " src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019483671_dcb0b1e230_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Early research sketches of key poses from Mona Lisa’s moveset – artists: Matthieu Godet, Artem Samoilov</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019483701_0fd9ca11af_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019483701_0fd9ca11af_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Early sketches of Mona’s ground combo – artists: Matthieu Godet, Artem Samoilov</em></p>
<p class="">Mona Lisa’s design process was more relaxed and natural compared to Mondo thanks to her naturally flowing shapes and graceful movements. Her design incorporates her science background, emphasizing her playful yet fierce combat style. Mona’s projectile-based attacks offer a fresh gameplay experience, making her stand out in melee situations, especially in multiplayer sessions.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Tribute devs Mona Lisa Pro-tips:</strong></h2>
<p class="">*attention speedrunners* Her ground super attack will melt away the HP from the statue of Tyranny when triggered right inside the sprite of the boss. At the perfect location, all projectiles will hit its target.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mondo Gecko</strong></h2>
<p class="">Known for his laid-back attitude and legendary skateboarding tricks, Mondo’s design and development was a challenge for the devs at Tribute. Integrating his skateboard into various animations, including attacks and being hit, posed significant technical challenges. Mondo’s aerial acrobatics and bounce attacks makes him a dynamic and highly effective fighter. His Super Attacks are spectacular, with the ground version featuring pyrotechnic effects and breakdancing moves, while the air version delivers a powerful single hit with fire thrusters.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019817924_2886116b91_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="Early sketches of Mondo Gecko - artists: Matthieu Godet, Artem Samoilov" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019817924_2886116b91_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Inspirations for Mondo’s design came from 80s and 90s skateboarding tricks, creating a visually and mechanically engaging character. The developers ensured his animations and moveset addressed player feedback on air control, making him a fun and satisfying addition to the roster.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396342"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/e9ea9fccfddc304d6cc2934138a68c039a4efaf3.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1440 / 750;"></video></figure>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Real Time animation of Mondo’s ground special attack. Character w/ skate layer, full animation with fx, and slowed rendered version</em></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Tribute devs Mondo Gecko Pro-tips:</strong></h2>
<p class="">-Wallride into a divekick to counter the Footclan Soldier uppercut.</p>
<p class="">-While dodging, players can hold the input button to delay the dash. Flames also cause damage on his backside – a very practical move while in precarious situations.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018584152_ba375eb364_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows six player co-op, as Mona Lisa and Monod Gecko fight foot Soldiers alongside the Turtles." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018584152_ba375eb364_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>A final touch</strong></h2>
<p class="">This DLC marks the final addition to TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge, closing this chapter on the highest of notes. The team is proud of this project and excited to see how players will enjoy the new characters. The developers hope players will revisit the game and enjoy the expanded roster, now complete with a broad array of mutants and humans, each with their own gameplay style. The new retro soundtrack, along with the characters, offers an excellent reason to replay the game. The Radical Reptiles DLC promises to bring fresh excitement and fun to TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge.</p>
<p class="">Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge – Radical ReptilesDLC is available today on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/movie-shadow-coming-to-sonic-x-shadow-generations/',
                'Movie Shadow coming to Sonic X Shadow Generations',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/dc59bb34e3bcd3f8a73a135442e53dd9ebf031df.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">2024 has been a long time coming for Shadow the Hedgehog fans. The Year of Shadow has been nothing but delights and with the third film in the Sonic the Hedgehog film franchise on the way, fans will finally be able to see the enigmatic anti-hero on the big screen! But don’t worry, you won’t have to wait much longer because on December 12 you can step right into movie Shadow’s Air Shoes right on PS4 and PS5! With the just-announced Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Movie Pack, get immersed in gameplay and cinematics voiced by the iconic Keanu Reeves!</p>
<p class="">We took a seat with series producer, Shun Nakamura, to get some deeper insight into the behind-the-scenes of this groundbreaking content as well as what to expect when it drops later this year.</p>
<p class=""><strong>At what point in development was it decided to include DLC in the title?</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Nakamura-san:</strong> This title has been developed to satisfy not just the Sonic game fans, but also those who see the Sonic movie and become fans of Sonic and Shadow for the first time.</p>
<p class="">But of course, we didn’t expect to have Shadow from the movie included in this game, as the world for the movie and game are different – we thought that it would be challenging to do so.</p>
<p class="">However, we saw an almost festival-like opportunity where we have the movie and game being launched almost at the same time. We decided to pursue it and have work on movie-related content with development starting last Autumn.</p>
<p class=""><strong>What was the thought process on including the Movie version of Shadow?</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Nakamura-san:</strong> Since the game and the movie pack content are releasing before the film, we thought it would be ideal to have people to play the game and have their feelings about Shadow, then go out and see the movie. After experiencing the film, hopefully they would want to come back to play the game again as Shadow. </p>
<p class="">We imagined that with so many new Sonic fans who love the movies, perhaps this will be the perfect motivation to jump in and play Sonic X Shadow Generations if Shadow from the movie would appear. </p>
<p class="">Hopefully, this makes this holiday season and the Year of Shadow even more exciting for all types of Sonic (and Shadow) fans out there.  </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019926440_390f0fccf8_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows Shadow standing in the middle of a nighttime Tokyo street. " height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019926440_390f0fccf8_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>How is this content pack related to the movie? (Without spoilers of course!)</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Nakamura-san:</strong> This content will not have a story which per se that would relate directly to the movie. Rather, as you can see in the trailer, it will be set in Tokyo, where Shadow visits in the movie. </p>
<p class="">The development team also lives in Tokyo, so we tried to develop this setting an enjoyable place as a Sonic game but also clearly showing the Tokyo-likeness. We even went out for research to the actual area being used in the game for inspiration. </p>
<p class="">We feel it is very exciting to play as Shadow in a real existing city, so please look forward to it. </p>
<p class=""><strong>And how does this DLC fit into the larger Sonic X Shadow Generations game? How does this experience differ?</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Nakamura-san:</strong> Basically, it should be positioned as bonus content. </p>
<p class="">In the base game, Shadow has his own dedicated story including achieving his new Doom Powers and reliving the memories of his creation, which is unique to this game. </p>
<p class="">There are things bit different in the movie – that is why I think saying this as a bonus content would be suitable. But you can play and control Shadow like you have played in the base game. </p>
<p class="">We can’t reveal too much, but please stay tuned to see how it connects to the movie world! </p>
<p class=""><strong>Do you have any fun stories from working with the Sonic Movie team?</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Nakamura-san:</strong> Information on the movie was revealed to very few members even within Sega, so when we developed this content, we worked with a very limited materials, which were provided by Paramount. We primarily discussed and worked with Iizuka-san who clearly knew about the movie too. </p>
<p class="">We actually haven’t seen the final scenes in the movie yet, so we are excited to see how close our game ends up being to the movie!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019820864_2603f2c812_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows a closer shot of Shadow’s in-game character model." height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019820864_2603f2c812_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>What was it like working with the confidential Hollywood voice talent for this DLC?</strong></p>
<p class="">It was an incredibly secretive process, so when we started to implement the voice in the game, we actually weren’t told who this voice is. The voice recording was handled by Iizuka-san in the US, so when we received the recorded voice files, we listened to it and felt, is this that actor…?, so we were also surprised after the official announcement from Paramount! </p>
<hr class="ps-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>
<p class="">The Sonic the Hedgehog Movie 3 pack is included with the Sonic X Shadow Generations Digital Deluxe Edition, and with pre-orders available now, it’s the best time to lock in for the additional content dropping on December 12. Our chat with Nakamura-san was brief (he’s a busy guy!), but after talking we know he’s cooking up something really special. Shadow fans, dinner is almost served.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/lego-horizon-adventures-launches-november-14-digital-deluxe-edition-detailed/',
                'LEGO Horizon Adventures launches November 14, Digital Deluxe Edition detailed',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/e3054be08be8708ffa47c640233bf2db5a4a44da.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class=""><strong>UPDATE: </strong>Pre-orders are live today for LEGO Horizon Adventures. <a href="https://store.playstation.com/product/EP9000-PPSA14632_00-LEGOHZNADVENTURE/">Head to PlayStation.com for more information</a>.</p>
<hr class="ps-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>
<p class="">We are ecstatic to announce that LEGO Horizon Adventures is releasing on November 14 2024! It’s been incredible to see everyone’s reactions to everything we’ve shown so far, as well as the creativity it has inspired with LEGO builders and fan artists alike. </p>
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<p class="">Pre-orders for the game are starting on October 3, so please scroll down for more information regarding the available editions and enjoy our celebratory new trailer! </p>
<p class="">If you pre-order any physical edition from participating retailers<sup>1</sup> or any digital edition on your preferred platform, you will receive a LEGO version of the iconic <strong>Shield-Weaver outfit</strong> to use in the game.  </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019511391_c9db7e5250_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019511391_c9db7e5250_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">The Digital Deluxe Edition comes with several exciting bonuses: </p>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Roller Coaster Customization</strong> | No need to choose between roof or coaster; you can have both and bring some theme park fun to Mother’s Heart! </li>
<li><strong>Three iconic Horizon outfits</strong> | Pay homage to Aloy’s adventures in the icy north with the Banuk Armor, channel your inner Eclipse with the Shadow Stalwart outfit, or fight metal with metal as “Alloy” Aloy! </li>
<li><strong>Ratchet and Rivet outfits</strong> | Join the thrilling journey as intergalactic super-mechanic Ratchet or trans-dimensional Resistance fighter Rivet. </li>
<li><strong>Sackboy outfit</strong> | Trading cloth and stuffing for bricks and studs, LittleBigPlanet’s Sackboy is available to join the party! </li>
</ul>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019845364_1660e4bed2_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019845364_1660e4bed2_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">A Standard Edition is also available in both digital and physical formats. Experience Aloy’s entire thrilling journey, endless co-op fun, and a stunningly reimagined universe filled with dinosaur-like robots in LEGO Horizon Adventures!  </p>
<p class="">LEGO Horizon Adventures launches on PlayStation 5, PC<sup>2</sup>, and Nintendo on November 14 2024, with pre-orders live October 3. Pre-ordering the game can be done on the platform of your choosing; find it on the <a href="https://www.playstation.com/en-us/games/lego-horizon-adventures/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">PlayStation Store</a>, <a href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/2428810/LEGO_Horizon_Adventures/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Steam</a>, <a href="https://store.epicgames.com/en-US/p/lego-horizon-adventures" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Epic Game Store</a>, and the Nintendo eShop.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019739718_9090c270c1_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019739718_9090c270c1_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">From all of us at Guerrilla and Studio Gobo, thank you for your enthusiasm and support for LEGO Horizon Adventures! To learn more about the game, please visit <a href="http://www.legohorizonadventures.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">www.legohorizonadventures.com</a>. You can also follow Guerrilla on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/guerrillagames/?hl=en" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@guerrilla?lang=en" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">TikTok</a>, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@guerrillagames" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">YouTube</a> for all the latest Horizon news and updates. </p>
<p class=""><em><sup>1 </sup>Availability varies by region/country,  excludes North America and Canada.</em><br/><em><sup>2 </sup>Account for PlayStation Network required on PC.</em></p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/monster-hunter-wilds-launches-february-28-2025/',
                'Monster Hunter Wilds launches February 28, 2025',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/07b1ce2d70599fb9682ae5bff951f7dd921b97bc.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">The hunt begins in Monster Hunter Wilds on February 28, 2025! We’re thrilled to reveal the global launch date of the next major entry in the Monster Hunter series first to PlayStation fans during today’s State of Play. Pre-order on PlayStation 5 starting today to receive bonus items. </p>
<p class="">During State of Play, we shared our 4<sup>th</sup> trailer, giving you a first look at the game’s main monster that serves as the catalyst for the dramatic events that kick off the events of the story and formation of the Forbidden Lands Research Commission. Multiple new monsters also make their debut for the first time. What awaits you in this living, dynamically changing world where monsters and people must co-exist?</p>
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<p class=""><strong>Introducing the flagship monster for Monster Hunter Wilds, Arkveld</strong></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018599772_4285d90c3a_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018599772_4285d90c3a_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">A Hunter on a Seikret and Olivia, a member of the Research Commission stand face-to-face with a mysterious new threat that lies at the center of the story, Arkveld.  </p>
<p class=""><strong>Arkveld</strong></p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019727433_3e09c3b316_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019727433_3e09c3b316_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019938800_6f1569ca3f_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019938800_6f1569ca3f_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">A monster from a long extinct species, shrouded in mystery. It bears uniquely shaped, chain-like wings.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Prologue</strong></p>
<p class="">A few years ago, on the border of the Forbidden Lands, never investigated by the Guild, a boy named Nata is rescued. </p>
<p class="">Using Nata’s cryptic words as a clue, the Forbidden Lands Research Commission is assembled to investigate the mysterious monster that attacked.  </p>
<p class="">The journey of the Research Committee to investigate the monster, called the “White Wraith,” and to rescue Nata’s beleaguered people, known as “the Keepers,” begins now. </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019966495_0a74d6b48d_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019966495_0a74d6b48d_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019727558_2543458296_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019727558_2543458296_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">The Guild forms several units, each consisting of three people and one animal: a Hunter, a Handler, a Smithy, and a Palico. There is the Avis Unit in which the protagonist belongs, and Astrum Unit, to which Olivia and others belong.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018599867_334c7b70fa_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018599867_334c7b70fa_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Erik, a biologist who belongs to the Astrum Unit.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019727548_374a906153_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019727548_374a906153_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Werner, an engineer who belongs to the Astrum Unit.</p>
<p class=""><strong>The Contrasting changes in the Scarlet Forest</strong></p>
<p class="">Previously revealed in our last trailer, the Scarlet Forest is a new locale with a colorful ecosystem of monsters, rich vegetation, and abundant, red-tined rivers. Like the Windward Plains, the Scarlet Forest also features its own unique environmental changes.</p>
<p class=""><strong>The Fallow of the Scarlet Forest</strong></p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019727428_604678312c_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019727428_604678312c_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833439_03944e8451_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833439_03944e8451_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">The distinctive, red-tinted river for which the Scarlet Forest earns its name.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Inclemency of the Scarlet Forest, Downpour</strong></p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019976610_933d937369_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019976610_933d937369_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018599882_409ae59adf_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018599882_409ae59adf_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019938760_99e4221e9c_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019938760_99e4221e9c_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833414_cdbb72bdf4_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833414_cdbb72bdf4_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">A heavy downpour batters the environment, reducing visibility and causing the water currents to surge. </p>
<p class=""><strong>The Plenty of the Scarlet Forest</strong></p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019976615_66aa4ae241_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019976615_66aa4ae241_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833409_37d1e8adc7_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833409_37d1e8adc7_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">After the storm breaks, the sun shines through the trees in the dense forest, making way for bright blue skies and water as the plants and creatures change…</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019499236_cc8e9c524a_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019499236_cc8e9c524a_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019499226_67b5dc3c09_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019499226_67b5dc3c09_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">Fishing in Monster Hunter Wilds allows you to bait prey using lures. Relax by fishing while enjoying the refreshing greenery and water!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833384_eeacb8fbfe_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833384_eeacb8fbfe_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Explore the destroyed beauty of the nearby rubble in the vibrant weather of this period. Use the nearby Wedge Beetles with your Slinger to swing around or explore the vast field on the back of your Seikret. As always, you can set a destination on your field map and your Seikret will automatically take you there. </p>
<p class=""><strong>Inhabitants of the Scarlet Forest, Wudwuds</strong></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018599752_ed22941fcd_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018599752_ed22941fcd_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">The Scarlet Forest is home to the Wudwuds, a tribe of Lynian. What kind of life do they lead, and how have they adapted to life in this ever-changing environment?</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018599797_c6437c7f2b_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018599797_c6437c7f2b_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833394_c533970f5b_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833394_c533970f5b_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">Wudwud hideout in the Scarlet Forest.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Brand new monsters have been discovered</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>The apex predator of the Scarlet Forest, Uth Duna</strong></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019499171_7cd9a61fda_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019499171_7cd9a61fda_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833389_4c19161e0e_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833389_4c19161e0e_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019727448_3d900c1103_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019727448_3d900c1103_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833359_aebf72fb4e_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833359_aebf72fb4e_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019938680_c8200b5ba9_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019938680_c8200b5ba9_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">A Leviathan type monster that appears during the Downpour, the Inclemency of the Scarlet Forest. It wears a veil of water created from an ingredient secreted from its body.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Quematrice turns up the heat</strong></p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019499126_37e5e26dac_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019499126_37e5e26dac_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019938660_b0190b6166_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019938660_b0190b6166_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">New to Monster Hunter Wilds, Quematrice is a Brute Wyvern that inhabits the Windward Plains.</p>
<p class="">It sprays a flammable substance that ignites into flames from sparks it emits by scraping the ground with its tail. </p>
<p class=""><strong>Summary</strong></p>
<p class="">Monster Hunter Wilds releases worldwide on February 28, 2025 for PS5! We hope you’re looking forward to the next generation of hunting on PS5, with intense hunting action and a heightened level of immersion that will set new heights for the series. </p>
<p class="">Pre-orders for the digital version begins today. The “Guild Knight Set” and the Talisman “Hope Charm” are available as bonuses to all who pre-order, so we hope you check them out. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019536746_5ce7744836_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019536746_5ce7744836_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Guild Knight Set</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019499106_62adacab56_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019499106_62adacab56_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Talisman “Hope Charm”</p>
<p class="">In addition to the pre-order bonus, those who pre-order the downloadable version from the PlayStation Store will also receive the Monster Hunter Wilds Digital Mini Art Book as a PlayStation Store exclusive pre-order bonus.</p>
<p class="">This is an app for PS5 and is separate from the main game.</p>
<p class="">Standard Edition </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018599692_5f96c2b6de_b.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018599692_5f96c2b6de_b.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">Monster Hunter Wilds Main Game for PS5</p>
<p class="">Deluxe Edition</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018599687_1b488bcdbe_b.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018599687_1b488bcdbe_b.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">The Deluxe Edition includes the Monster Hunter Wilds Main Game for PS5 and the Deluxe Pack, which includes a variety of cosmetic DLC such as Hunter Layered Armor and sticker sets.</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Monster Hunter Wilds Main Game for PS5</li>
<li>Deluxe Pack</li>
</ul>
<p class="">Premium Deluxe Edition</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833294_7e5f7b3ef6_b.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019833294_7e5f7b3ef6_b.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">The Premium Deluxe Edition includes the Monster Hunter Wilds Main Game for PS5 and a Cosmetic DLC Pass, including three DLC packs that will release by Summer 2025.</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Monster Hunter Wilds Main Game for PS5</li>
<li>Deluxe Pack (planned for release at Main Game launch)</li>
<li>Cosmetic DLC pack 1 (planned for release in Spring 2025)</li>
<li>Cosmetic DLC pack 2 (planned for release in Summer 2025)</li>
<li>Premium bonuses (planned for release at Main Game launch)</li>
</ul>
<p class="">For more information, please visit the Monster Hunter Wilds store page on PlayStation Store. </p>
<p class="">Stay tuned for more details on the pre-orders for the physical version of Monster Hunter Wilds. </p>
<p class="">Hunters, we hope you’re excited by newly revealed information in State of Play! There are still plenty more discoveries to share leading up to launch on February 28, 2025, so be sure to stay tuned. </p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/first-look-at-the-chroma-collection-an-all-new-iridescent-line-of-ps5-accessories-available-to-pre-order-this-october/',
                'First look at the Chroma Collection, an all-new iridescent line of PS5 accessories available to pre-order October 3',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/acb97f582afa08d41c44de9d458612dca7065b54.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class=""><strong>UPDATE: </strong>Pre-orders are live today for the new PS5 Chroma Collection. Head to <a data-id="https://www.playstation.com/accessories/dualsense-wireless-controller/#chroma" data-type="link" href="https://www.playstation.com/accessories/dualsense-wireless-controller/#chroma">PlayStation.com</a> and <a data-id="https://direct.playstation.com/" data-type="link" href="https://direct.playstation.com/">direct.playstation.com</a> for more information.</p>
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<p class="">As revealed during today’s State of Play, the new Chroma Collection introduces a brand new aesthetic to the PS5 family of accessories. The collection for the DualSense wireless controller and PS5 console covers for PlayStation 5 Console (model group – slim) includes three new colors that shine, shimmer, and shift colors from every angle:</p>
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<img alt="First look at the Chroma Collection, an all-new iridescent line of PS5 accessories available to pre-order October 3" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/7AKEgRMB8Jk/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<p class=""> Chroma Pearl moves through a range of chic pinks and creams.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019732843_98b98f9a67_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019732843_98b98f9a67_o.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Chroma Indigo shifts between deep blues and vivid purples.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019944035_697ba8b6ac_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019944035_697ba8b6ac_o.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Chroma Teal shimmers through several fresh shades of green.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019838739_14d1dc4659_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019838739_14d1dc4659_o.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">To share more about Chroma Collection’s design and creative process, here’s Leo Cardoso and Satoshi Aoyagi from our Color, Material and Finish design team:  </p>
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<p class="">“We’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to launch this collection and are thrilled to take this next colorful step in our journey. With a sleek, multichromatic finish that wrap around the entire controller, you’ll notice we’ve carefully refined the colors of every DualSense element to perfectly complement the playful, iridescent transitions.”</p>
<cite>– Leo Cardoso</cite></blockquote>
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<p class="">“Chroma Indigo moves between blue and purple, two fan-favorite colors. Chroma Teal combines yellow-green and blue-green into a fresh and exquisite shade. And if you love the Original White DualSense, you won’t want to miss out on the subtlety and elegance of the Chroma Pearl.”</p>
<cite>– Satoshi Aoyagi</cite></blockquote>
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<p class="">The Chroma DualSense wireless controllers will be available for a recommended retail price (RRP) of $79.99 USD/¥11,980 (including tax)/€79.99/£69.99. The Chroma PS5 console covers for PlayStation 5 console (model group – slim) will be available for a recommended retail price (RRP) of $64.99 USD/¥8,980 (including tax)/€64.99/£54.99. </p>
<p class="">Pre-orders for the Chroma Collection will begin on October 3, 2024, with Chroma Pearl and Chroma Indigo accessories launching on November 7, 2024, followed by the launch of Chroma Teal accessories on January 23, 2025. Launch date and availability for the accessories may vary by region, so be sure to check your local retailer for availability.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">direct.playstation.com Purchase Information</h2>
<p class="">In the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, Austria, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg, the Chroma Collection will be available for purchase on<a href="https://direct.playstation.com/"> </a><a href="https://direct.playstation.com/">direct.playstation.com</a>.</p>
<p class="">The PS5 accessories in Chroma Pearl, Chroma Indigo, and Chroma Teal will be available for pre-order on direct.playstation.com starting October 3, with direct.playstation.com pre-orders beginning at 10am local time (10am ET in the U.S.). Stay tuned to<a href="http://direct.playstation.com/"> </a><a href="http://direct.playstation.com/">direct.playstation.com</a> for more information.</p>
<p class="">Pre-orders will also be available for Chroma DualSense wireless controllers through select retailers on the same day.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/playstation-plus-monthly-games-for-october-wwe-2k24-dead-space-doki-doki-literature-club-plus/',
                'PlayStation Plus Monthly Games for October: WWE 2K24, Dead Space, Doki Doki Literature Club Plus!',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/6011109dc16c0b503352798074994a4c71bd69f0.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Make your entrance and become legend in the ring, survive the terrors lurking aboard a mining vessel drifting in deep space and tackle the horrors of school romance in which not everything is as it seems with October’s PlayStation Plus Monthly Games lineup*. WWE 2K24, Dead Space and Doki Doki Literature Club Plus! launch October 1 for all playStation Plus members**. </p>
<p class="">Let’s take a closer look at each game in turn. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019506236_3e40728941_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019506236_3e40728941_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>WWE 2K24 | PS4, PS5 </strong></p>
<p class="">A celebration of 40 years of WrestleMania, featuring iconic superstars past and present, playable across a vast array of game modes. Join the biggest superstars in sports entertainment as WWE 2K24 presents a retelling of WrestleMania’s greatest moments from the last 40 years. Take part in some of wrestling’s most unforgettable and career-defining matches, choosing from the likes of “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, Undertaker and Andre the Giant, alongside current contenders “The American Nightmare” Cody Rhodes, John Cena, Rhea Ripley and Roman Reigns.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018606857_9a27e3faa1_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018606857_9a27e3faa1_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Dead Space | PS5 </strong></p>
<p class="">The sci-fi survival horror classic returns, rebuilt to offer a deeper and more immersive experience. Isaac Clarke is an everyman engineer on a mission to repair a vast Planet Cracker-class ship, the USG Ishimura, only to discover something has gone horribly wrong. The ship’s crew has been slaughtered and Isaac’s beloved partner, Nicole, is lost somewhere on board. Now alone and armed with only his engineering tools and skills, Isaac races to uncover the nightmarish mystery of what happened aboard the Ishimura in hopes of finding Nicole. Trapped with hostile creatures called Necromorphs, Isaac faces a battle for survival, not only against the escalating terrors of the ship but his own crumbling sanity.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019945690_bd3cc5e82a_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019945690_bd3cc5e82a_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Doki Doki Literature Club Plus! | PS4, PS5 </strong></p>
<p class="">Enter the psychological horror experience of Doki Doki Literature Club. You play as the main character, who reluctantly joins the Literature Club in search of a romantic interest. With every poem you write and every choice you make, you’ll charm your crush and begin to unfold the horrors of school romance. Do you have what it takes to crack the code of dating sims and get the perfect ending? This game is not suitable for children or those who are easily disturbed.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Last chance to download September’s games</strong></p>
<p class="">PlayStation Plus members have until September 30 to add Quidditch Champions,  MLB The Show 24 and Little Nightmares II to their game libraries.</p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>*All three games will be available to PlayStation Plus members on October 1 until November 4.</em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>**PlayStation Plus Game Catalog lineup may differ in certain regions. Please check the PlayStation Store on launch day for your region’s lineup.</em></p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/horizon-zero-dawn-remastered-is-coming-to-ps5-pc-october-31-2024/',
                'Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered launches on PS5 & PC October 31, pre-orders available Oct 3',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/436abda235b33facb9661d978d695443894760a3.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class=""><strong>UPDATE: </strong>Pre-orders are live today for Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered. <a href="https://store.playstation.com/en-us/product/UP9000-PPSA13428_00-HORIZONREMASTER1">Head to PlayStation.com for more information</a>.</p>
<hr class="ps-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>
<p class="">Over seven years ago, we released Horizon Zero Dawn into the wilds. Players got to meet Aloy, our leading hero, thrust into a journey of (self-)discovery in a mysterious, far-future world ravaged by deadly machines.</p>
<p class="">It was also the beginning of a thriving community of cosplayers, virtual photographers, fan artists, and content creators who inspire us to this day with their incredible creations. Horizon Zero Dawn is near and dear to many fans, as well as to everyone at Guerrilla.</p>
<p class="">And that community has not stopped growing. Each year, many millions more pick up Horizon Zero Dawn for the first time. But 7 years is a long time in the world of computer graphics; technology improves. As time moved on, we really wished that new players who join Aloy on her origin story can do it with a version that is worthy of their PS5 or compatible PC. And so, we are thrilled to announce that the game has been remastered by our talented friends at Nixxes.</p>
<p class="">Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered launches on October 31. The captivating story and awe-inspiring post-apocalyptic world returns alongside a host of technological improvements, visual enhancements, and upgraded features. It also includes The Frozen Wilds content, a vast expansion featuring additional lands, skills, weapons, and machines. Take a look at the announcement trailer below.</p>
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<img alt="Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered launches on PS5 &amp; PC October 31, pre-orders available Oct 3" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/kMN-x9goE7M/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<p class="">Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered features over 10 hours of re-recorded conversation, mocap and countless graphical improvements that bring the game to the same visual fidelity as its critically acclaimed sequel Horizon Forbidden West. The game’s lush world includes frozen mountains, dense jungles, and arid deserts with stunning new visuals and 4K<sup>1</sup> graphics and travelling between settlements is now lightning-fast.</p>
<p class="">The story’s many compelling characters have been upgraded, bringing them in line with current generation advances in character models and rendering. We hope that improved animation, lighting, textures and more will make new and existing fans excited to dive into the action!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018624712_52a6590029_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018624712_52a6590029_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">The audio experience in Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered has been significantly enhanced. We’ve completely revamped the sound mix, now supporting PS5 Tempest 3D Audio Tech<sup>2</sup> for higher-order ambisonics and Atmos rendering for an immersive soundscape. Our sound design has also seen major improvements, with hundreds of improvements both in-game and in the cinematics. </p>
<p class="">Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered takes full advantage of the PS5 console’s power and features. The DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers ensure incredible immersion during tense combat, stealthy exploration, or scaling a gigantic Tallneck. We’ve integrated custom haptics for the DualSense controller throughout the game, providing tactile feedback that heightens immersion. Additionally, we’ve introduced a new optional accessibility feature that utilizes sound and haptic feedback to notify players of interactable elements, such as pickups, that were previously only indicated visually. </p>
<p class="">We’re also very happy to share that Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered comes with native support for PlayStation 5 Pro. This includes a range of graphical features that have been improved to make use of the power of the PS5 Pro, while also delivering ultra-high fidelity at blazing fast framerates.   </p>
<p class="">The PC version<sup>3</sup> on Windows includes the PlayStation overlay with Trophy support and has its own set of features, such as support for ultra-wide resolutions and the latest performance enhancing technologies like NVIDIA DLSS 3 and AMD FSR 3.1 with frame generation<sup>4</sup>. We will let our Nixxes partners expand more in a future blog.</p>
<p class="">Many of the accessibility features that were first introduced in Horizon Forbidden West have been included for this Remastered version as well; remappable controls, haptic cues, and various assist toggles will enable all players to fully enjoy the game.</p>
<p class="">For those that have already played it, we’ve made sure that your old save games will work; so this is a great opportunity to dive into New Game+ or get back into Photo Mode with all your previously unlocked outfits and customizations.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018624717_619adc3c6e_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018624717_619adc3c6e_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">We’re excited to share that pre-orders for Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered will open on 3 October for both platforms and that physical and digital versions will be available.</p>
<p class="">For existing owners of Horizon Zero Dawn (PS4, PC) and/or Horizon Zero Dawn Complete Edition (PS4, PS5, PC): you can upgrade to the digital version of Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered for $9.99 on both PlayStation 5 console and on PC (via Steam or Epic Game Store). This includes fans who added the game to their libraries during PlayStation’s Play At Home initiative.<sup> 5</sup> </p>
<p class="">Owners of the Horizon Zero Dawn PS4 game disc can access this offer by inserting the game disc into their PS5 console (and will need to keep the disc inserted each time to play the game). PS4 game disc owners who buy the PS5 Digital Edition disc-free console will not be able to access the upgrade offer. </p>
<p class="">For new fans, the game can be purchased for $49.99<sup>6</sup> on PlayStation Store, Steam, or Epic Game Store. You will receive the Horizon Zero Dawn Complete Edition (original version) along with the Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered upgrade.</p>
<p class="">We will have some more information as we get closer to release day on October 31, so keep an eye on our social channels for updates. From all of us at Guerrilla and Nixxes, thank you for your continued support!</p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em><sup>1 </sup></em><em>4K resolution requires compatible 4K TV or display.</em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em><sup>2</sup></em><em> 3D audio via built in TV speakers or analog/ USB stereo headphones.</em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em><sup>3</sup></em><em>Account for PlayStation Network required on PC.</em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em><sup>4</sup></em><em> Compatible PC and graphics card required.</em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em><sup>5 </sup></em><em>Redemptions via PlayStation Plus are not eligible to upgrade. </em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em><sup>6 </sup></em><em>Price shown in U.S. currency and may vary by country. Check PS Store at launch on October 31, 2024 for local pricing.</em></p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/fantasian-neo-dimension-out-december-5-hironobu-sakaguchi-talks-bringing-his-rpg-to-ps5/',
                'Fantasian Neo Dimension out December 5: Hironobu Sakaguchi talks bringing his RPG to PS5',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/8f9d6fdf250a23b2705b6e418311981a4586c5a4.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">For many fans of the RPG genre, Hironobu Sakaguchi is considered a household name. Known fondly as the “father of Final Fantasy” thanks to his work on the first 10 mainline titles, Sakaguchi has created many other games with cult followings, including Blue Dragon, Lost Odyssey and Terra Battle, developed by his company, Mistwalker Corporation.  </p>
<p class="">Fantasian Neo Dimension serves as Sakaguchi’s next upcoming title that brings his critically acclaimed game, Fantasian, to wider audiences through PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. It will launch with new features such as English and Japanese voice acting, an added difficulty option, and 4K support on PlayStation 5. It also signals a return partnership for Sakaguchi with Square Enix after almost 20 years apart.  </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>A multi-dimensional adventure</strong></h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019816254_9c819b6bc1_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019816254_9c819b6bc1_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">For the uninitiated, Fantasian Neo Dimension follows the protagonist Leo, who embarks on a multi-dimensional adventure to recover his lost memories and discover the secrets behind a strange mechanical infection that threatens to destroy his world.  </p>
<p class="">Set across the backdrop of over 150 vibrant and beautiful hand-crafted dioramas, the game features a unique artistic style with a fun, strategic twist on traditional turn-based battle mechanics. It also features music from composer Nobuo Uematsu, famously known for his works in the Final Fantasy franchise. </p>
<p class="">Fantasian Neo Dimension was announced to be launching on December 5, 2024 during today’s State of Play. Ahead of this release, we sat down with Sakaguchi who acts as Producer for this title, to discuss the journey of working on the game and what fans can look forward to. </p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Chat with Producer Hironobu Sakaguchi</strong></h2>
<p class=""><strong>How did the partnership between Mistwalker and Square Enix come about? What’s it like working with Naoki Yoshida on this release? </strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Sakaguchi</strong>: The initial partnership of Square Enix happened five years ago when Yoshida san and I were supposed to do a panel discussion interview, and I thought it would be rude to show up not having played his game. I knew I was a huge fan of MMOs, so I was afraid that if I did play, I might get addicted. And sure enough, I’m on Final Fantasy XIV every day now. Even this morning I played for 3 hours. Because of that, Yoshida san and I got really close. We went to dinner together and talked a lot about Final Fantasy XIV, and I had mentioned Fantasian, a game I had developed recently for Apple Arcade. And we talked about, well, “could we bring this to PC and consoles?” Because from my perspective, I wanted as wide an audience to be able to play the game. And Yoshida san was kind enough to say, “you know what, maybe there is an opportunity to do this together,” and the rest is history. </p>
<p class=""><strong>How are you approaching this new version of Fantasian</strong> <strong>Neo Dimension and what can fans look forward to when they experience it on PS5? </strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Sakaguchi</strong>: One of the initial inspirations for Fantasian was, I happened to be sitting in front of a diorama, and I imagined, “what would it feel like if I was walking through this world and exploring the diorama.” And I know it seems very counterintuitive nowadays where CG seems to be the dominant form of visual expression, but I think that handcrafted nature and the warmth of something being made by humans really comes through in the diorama environments. But it was actually more challenging than I had thought. Initially, we were going to 3D scan these dioramas to create the necessary models and project photographs onto them. But we had to innovate and create a custom pipeline to be able to take all these dioramas and place them within the game. And as for the PS5, I would say the English and Japanese voiceover is a huge plus. At the same time, the imagery — the dioramas, we had originally photographed these in 4K resolution, but the original version for various reasons, we had to scale them down. For the first time we’ll be able to see the 4K imagery on the PS5. So, I encourage everyone to play it on their big screen and really see all the detail, the charm of that artisan craftsmanship that you get in the dioramas. And I think it’s going to be a really fun adventure. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019816274_b739288d4d_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019816274_b739288d4d_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Given your accomplished history with RPGs, what did you set out to achieve with Fantasian Neo Dimension that you hadn’t done before? </strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Sakaguchi</strong>: When I set out to develop Fantasian there was a part of me that thought, “well, if this does become the last game I develop, I should feel satisfied with that and have no regrets.” And one of the reasons I felt that way is because while working on Fantasian, I had the chance to play Final Fantasy VI. Playing Final Fantasy VI again really brought me back to the origin of myself as a game developer, and I really felt my own style come through the game. So Fantasian is a turn-based, what you can call, very traditional style RPG. And looking at what I’ve done from Final Fantasy I all the way through VI, there’s always been some form of evolution to the genre, and the same is true for Fantasian. I know it’s a very traditional style RPG, but I wanted some form of evolution. So aside from the diorama style, there are different mechanics. For example, with the Dimengeon System, players can stock their random encounters into a separate dimension and then defeat them all at once later, whenever they feel ready. And what this does is it allows the players to really immerse themselves and freely explore the dioramas without the interruption of random encounters. And likewise, there’s another mechanic, the “skills” or magic spells in the game. Players can affect their skills’ trajectories or the area of effect, depending on how they cast a spell. So, when you stack a lot of enemies, you get to aim and defeat them. It’s a very rewarding and satisfying experience. So, despite it being a more traditional turn-based RPG, I think there’s some freshness or evolution as well. </p>
<p class=""><strong>Do you have anything to say to RPG fans who may be on the fence about playing a game developed for mobile first on their PS5? </strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Sakaguchi</strong>: When Fantasian was initially released on Apple Arcade, we knew that mobile devices would be the primary terminal of the game. However, it also needed to be adapted to Mac and Apple TV. So technically there were means to play Fantasian on the big screen with a controller. And it was always my intention that people would at some point be able to play it and experience it in that format. The assets and all the graphics that we had prepared were created to be able to withstand that type of media. But unfortunately, the 4K images that we had taken had to scale down because of size and storage limitations of different mobile devices. Whereas on PS5 you get to experience Fantasian as I imagined it, without having to worry about any type of storage limitations. This is why there is also going to be English and Japanese voiceovers. So, I would consider Fantasian Neo Dimension the so-called director’s cut of this game, and I’m very happy to be able to deliver that to everyone. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019481876_91d1fc6eef_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019481876_91d1fc6eef_k.jpg"/></a>
<hr class="ps-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>
<p class=""><strong>Pre-orders available today</strong></p>
<p class="">With Fantasian Neo Dimension launching this December 5, 2024, pre-orders are also now available. Players who pre-order will be able to receive the Vibran Secret Stone as an in-game bonus item to help provide an experience boost to equipped characters. This item will come in handy for a game that was originally known for its strategic combat with particularly challenging battles! </p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/dragon-age-the-veilguard-new-trailer-reveals-an-epic-dragon-battle/',
                'Dragon Age: The Veilguard – New trailer reveals an epic dragon battle',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/d82c81f137887c64a6eff59770204bad366bb791.png?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">We are excited to share with you the latest look from Dragon Age: The Veilguard. In this new gameplay slice, captured on PlayStation 5, watch Rook, Dragon Age’s newest hero, fighting alongside two companions, Taash and Lucanis, that we brought along specifically for this battle.  There are seven companions in total in the game, and these make up the Veilguard – who are tasked with Rook to take on corrupt ancient gods who are hellbent on destroying the world.  </p>
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<p class="">As seen in the trailer, the blighted gods have unleashed a fearsome dragon on Thedas.  It will be up to you, as Rook, to use all your tactical skills and abilities in the fight – whilst commanding your companions in battle with the ability wheel – to fight smart and strategically deliver the most devastating attacks and combos to bring the gigantic beast down.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019769398_76c63a62aa_o.png" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="This image shows Rook’s Ability Wheel UI, letting them select various attack strategies with their companions, change target etc." src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019769398_76c63a62aa_o.png"/></a>
<p class="">The Rook featured in this battle is a Mage – one of three classes you can choose when you create your character.  Mages rain down fury with spells that incinerate, freeze, electrocute and crush. Some cast from afar, while others prefer close quarters combat. </p>
<p class="">The mage class can switch between two weapon sets – a Staff for ranged attacks, or an Elemental Orb and Dagger for close quarters combat.  Eagle eyed players might be able to see Rook is facing off against an ice dragon in the trailer, which is vulnerable to fire.  Because of this, the player has equipped an Orb that enhances Burning damage, alongside supplementary skills that complement the equipped weaponry. </p>
<p class="">Throughout the fight, Rook commands her companions to utilize abilities that set up powerful damage combinations.  For example, when the dragon is staggered, Rook primes the target by commanding Lucanis to use the “Debilitate” ability.  This applies the “Sundered” status, which is then detonated by Rook’s “Dark Squall” ability.  This Primer + Detonator combo produces massive damage, getting the group closer to victory.</p>
<p class="">To end the battle, Rook uses the equipped ultimate ability “Thunderous End”, unleashing a massive amount of damage, shocking enemies in a wide radius.  This is perfect against a large target like the ice dragon you’re facing off against.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396514"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/5800aea1dbff317f4a0c09c6146d116885607370.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">For a more detailed look at how we approached this battle, check out the video below:</p>
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<p class="">Ultimately, as either a Mage, Rogue, or Warrior, you will strive to become the leader and can customize your look, abilities, gear, and companions, all based on your playstyle. Each and every battle you face is an opportunity to try new strategies against increasingly perilous enemies.</p>
<p class="">In Dragon Age: The Veilguard, releasing on October 31 on PlayStation 5, you will save the battered world of Thedas and unite the Veilguard: your team of seven companions, each with their own rich lives and deep backstories. This bold, heroic adventure is built to deliver on what BioWare is best known for: rich storytelling, fantasy worldbuilding, companions &amp; fellowship, and a world where you matter.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/legacy-of-kain-soul-reaver-1-2-remastered-launches-on-ps5-ps4-dec-10/',
                'Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered launches on PS5, PS4 Dec 10',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/5b02c6f48787cdf0efcf13070bd67c98d7e0c8af-scaled.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">25 years ago, Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver introduced the world to the vampire Raziel. In the game’s opening scene, Raziel is betrayed and executed by his master, the vampire emperor Kain. Enduring untold suffering and disfigurement, Raziel rises eons later as the iconic and vengeful blue wraith we all know and love.</p>
<p class="">In 1999, games were built differently. Deep narratives were uncommon and fully voiced cut-scenes were rare. Soul Reaver had both and quickly became a classic.</p>
<p class="">To commemorate the 25th anniversary of Soul Reaver, Aspyr is proud to announce Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 &amp; 2 Remastered for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.</p>
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<img alt="Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 &amp; 2 Remastered launches on PS5, PS4 Dec 10" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/7pRyL8y7vZ4/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Remaster pillars defined</strong></h2>
<p class="">As with our work on Tomb Raider I-III Remastered, the key to a great Remaster is to bring a classic game to modern hardware with enough visual and quality-of-life improvements to feel natural, while carefully preserving the integrity of the original. We want new fans to join the Soul Reaver faithful in reliving Raziel’s adventures.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396565"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/348fd91f01bec33316cf565a0472a14a48637e5a.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class=""><strong>Engineering goal</strong>: Performance with pixel-perfect preservation</p>
<p class="">Thankfully Crystal Dynamics was able to provide us with the source code, so we started with the original engine and a complete set of assets. This foundation ensured we could deliver the exact same combat, puzzles, and boss fights, with the same balance and feel, as the original. </p>
<p class="">With its environmental storytelling and the innovative mechanics that allowed players to shift between the material and spectral realms, Soul Reaver pushed the limits of computer memory in the ‘90s. The way we’ve engineered the title will preserve that legacy for players returning to Nosgoth or visiting for the first time.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396567"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/2a1b19cd63ce9947bcec2f6005d5ec049f65a06b.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">But we didn’t want to stop at the original toggle between realms. We also integrated a toggle between classic and modern game art, on the fly, without ever having a hit to performance.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Gameplay Goal</strong>: Surprise and delight lifelong hardcore fans</p>
<p class="">The Soul Reaver game narratives are powerful and beautifully complex. Starring Michael Bell as Raziel, Simon Templeton as Kain, and Tony Jay as the Elder God, Soul Reaver 1 &amp; 2 feature some of the most iconic performances in video game history. And of course, kudos to Amy Hennig’s work writing and directing this visionary game when the tools to do so were burgeoning.</p>
<p class="">We did, however, want to surprise and delight our most hardcore fans, so the conversation evolved into what additions we could make that wouldn’t upset the original design intentions but would add to the overall experience. Here’s what we came up with:</p>
<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Control Improvements:</strong> Soul Reaver launched while the D-PAD was the dominant control method. We’ve ensured with DualShock 4 and Dual Sense that analog control feels and plays as great in Soul Reaver as it did in Soul Reaver 2.</li>
<li><strong>Camera Upgrades: </strong>We’ve mapped the camera in Soul Reaver to the right stick which allows us to move the camera on the Y-Axis. Of course, there weren’t robust skyboxes in the original because you couldn’t look up. So we made some! Enjoy right stick mapping to see the vibrant skies and platforms above.</li>
</ol>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019564981_19c8a5f171_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019564981_19c8a5f171_h.jpg"/></a>
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<ol class="wp-block-list" start="3">
<li><strong>Trophies!</strong> For now, just know we’re using trophies as our wink and nod to the community for the most iconic gameplay moments. We’ll share more specifics at a later date. </li>
</ol>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54020005880_84ee81ba47_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54020005880_84ee81ba47_h.jpg"/></a>
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<li><strong>Map &amp; Compass</strong>: Nosgoth is a vast, open world. Navigating, even with quick travel, can be daunting for first-timers. We added a map and compass to assist with finding the next objective, so you’ll never feel completely lost, even if you decide to play through optional content. The map is a brand new, never-before-seen map of Nosgoth co-created by Aspyr, Crystal Dynamics and key members of the Legacy of Kain community. It is one of the most beautiful additions to the game and a celebration of the fans who have kept the games alive for so long.</li>
</ol>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019898199_43219ca6e7_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019898199_43219ca6e7_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""></p>
<ol class="wp-block-list" start="5">
<li><strong>Photo Mode</strong>: A popular feature from Tomb Raider I-III Remastered returns! We’ll include our photo mode to let you showcase some of the best gameplay moments of Soul Reaver 1 &amp; 2.<br/></li>
<li><strong>And a few more surprises</strong>: Where’s the fun in spoiling everything already? </li>
</ol>
<p class=""><strong>Art goal</strong>: Visuals as in ‘Your Memory’</p>
<p class="">We want the games to look the way they did in your mind. </p>
<p class="">Here are the art changes we made:</p>
<p class=""><strong>Soul Reaver cut-scenes rendered with higher fidelity models</strong>: Source code does not always have the assets to render cut-scenes with newer assets. Our engineering teams combed through the archives to find the right files to render the cut scenes with new, higher fidelity assets. This makes the transition from modern gameplay mode to cut-scene seamless.</p>
<p class=""><strong>New Hero models for Raziel and Kain</strong>: These models are inspired by the look of the original pre-rendered cutscenes.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019898129_e938bdeb75_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019898129_e938bdeb75_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Glowing eyes and Wraith Blade</strong>: We’ve added a glow to Raziel’s eyes and the Wraith Blade to take advantage of lighting upgrades</p>
<p class=""><strong>Real-time shadows</strong>: Applied to all characters and objects</p>
<p class=""><strong>New Enemy and Boss models</strong>: I’ll admit these are a bit scarier than I remembered!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019564971_01544974ff_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019564971_01544974ff_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Day and Night cycle (SR)</strong> A legacy feature that was cut from the final release has been restored to add mood and atmosphere to Nosgoth. </p>
<p class=""><strong>Graphics toggle</strong>: While we did add many improvements to textures, UI, and VFX, any point during gameplay, including in Photo mode, you can swap back to the original graphics.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396576"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/dce048bdfcc197bfdf3863fcf4542e2aa82a9212.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">Thank you to the original Soul Reaver 1 and 2 teams, Crystal Dynamics, and the community for letting us visit Nosgoth and resurrect Raziel one more time. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019898234_63cdce377a_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019898234_63cdce377a_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">We’ll see you on December 10. Pre-orders are available today on PlayStation Store!</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/fear-the-spotlight-launches-oct-22-on-ps5-ps4/',
                'Fear the Spotlight launches Oct 22 on PS5, PS4',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/060ac4da33391a58bc6e258dce927d253ebd411a.png?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Now, PS Blog readers, if you could just place both fingers lightly on the planchette of the spirit board in front of you, we can begin.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396527"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://stream.mux.com/00apGoXG0202lnbFI400RhVDUZIs5p5JLpMw7a1snKFP5jQ/capped-1080p.mp4?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiIwMGFwR29YRzAyMDJsbmJGSTQwMFJoVkRVWklzNXA1SkxwTXc3YTFzbktGUDVqUSIsImF1ZCI6InYiLCJleHAiOjE3MzgwMjE4MjYsImtpZCI6IjRMNXlPY2pyVjFOVXFWemNVdkpCbjF3VG00ZVRHRzlNaDAyMDFZazVqdTlOQSJ9.D41wmdyg7O2BxOVVeV1hu84FMeUWrLEs31rx3hP2fTfwPO-eQ5SOvPVnXBqFzH6QENysbLPx073zXAkXsgVS01delHQs8E9FiIs-av8eF-xhOB-y79zRZJZzVtSz-041cCzB6I-cvjcvM8W3gDC3vWBu7kYT62tBe_VNFUxOa1CezmPjuX3U_Irz4MARtT2Y-8zguK1eiNoipZpHdlbwylqNcicj51VicJBB_TuoxGeRRjA1dD4o6uE6nHCPMT4u7LNA0lkX6jTtOj7ZnrZoTKUvGeOH7jcK3qKyLzSC6I0bdmusskIGd-874aKqZ2RRKeJ6iarZcvjLABMj-TSSbw" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">We’re very excited to reveal that there’s not long until you can join Vivian and Amy for a séance in Fear the Spotlight. But before you enter Sunnyside High, we wanted to dive into how we’ve been inspired by classic PlayStation experiences to bring our modern horror adventure to life. As you may have just seen in the recently released trailer, the aesthetic style, gameplay mechanics, and tone all come from a deep nostalgia over the games of the past.</p>
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<p class="">Our studio name, Cozy Game Pals, actually came about long before we decided to make a horror game, but we do think there is something exceptionally comforting about the classic, original PlayStation art style. It’s nostalgic and reminds us of playing our first horror games, in bedrooms around the TV with siblings, daring to brave the original Silent Hill. We feel like Vivian’s journey in Fear the Spotlight is actually a welcoming one in a world of high fidelity horror graphics. </p>
<p class="">There might not be 4K gore running down the walls of Sunnyside’s halls, but that doesn’t mean you’re not going to be on edge. Another gift of this particular art style and the purposeful dithering (the name of that grainy retro look) is the fact that it gives you just enough to let your imagination run away with you. Was that a shape between the stacks in the library? Did a head just appear around the corner and disappear? Or are your eyes playing tricks on you? </p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396528"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/7ec6aee0438b4beee20082c98a33162b2ea1fd76.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">In Fear the Spotlight, all of the above might be true but, like the best horror movie experiences, we want to make sure you paint horror pictures in your mind far scarier than anything we could ever show you.</p>
<p class="">Not only is the original PlayStation art style comforting, nostalgic, and allows for seriously atmospheric scares, but it also suits us on a practical level. Cozy Game Pals is just the two of us, Bryan and Crista (hi!). A lo-fi approach to visuals has meant that we can be efficient and really lean into crafting the atmosphere and pacing throughout the game. We love playing with your expectations and this art style fits that perfectly. </p>
<p class="">We understand that this look can be intense for some players, so we’ve even made sure you can choose just how ‘classic’ you want the visuals to be. We have sliding scales for the TV filter, polygon wobble, and ambient camera wobble to make sure players can feel as 90s as they want. Having a lava lamp next to your TV is entirely optional of course.</p>
<p class="">Fear the Spotlight takes many cues from classic survival horror experiences, but this is far more a scary teen adventure than something like Silent Hill or Resident Evil. You’ll want to make sure that Vivian has her asthma inhaler just in case, but we’re leaning into atmospheric puzzle solving as you uncover the history behind a tragic fire in the school decades before.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396529"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/91620fe6c89a56ce65b8fbbbc1cf586389c45c24.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">And here too, we’ve been inspired by classic experiences. We love the point and click style puzzles of OG survival horror so we have introduced tactile first person puzzle solving. Whether you’re dialing payphones number by number, or pulling open drawers, we wanted Fear the Spotlight to be a modern evolution of the puzzles of those classic horror experiences. We’re not here to replicate them – don’t mess with perfection! – but wanted to make sure that our love of these horror games made its way into our own unique mystery.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396530"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/09/eaf66fab4fd8735f1ed437bdefa93b95898521fc.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">Our wish for Fear the Spotlight is that it would be a perfect game for those who love the genre and can spot the influences, but also players who are new to horror games. We want our scary movie loving friends to enter Sunnyside even if they have never been hands-on with the classics.</p>
<p class="">We can’t wait for you to experience Fear the Spotlight and hope you have as much fun playing it as we did working on it. Just don’t forget the candles on October 22…</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/dynasty-warriors-origins-launches-january-17-2025-on-ps5/',
                'Dynasty Warriors: Origins launches January 17, 2025 on PS5',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/e0bf5d822f533bdeeb823f4d18f6dbff0d9fc8b4.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">When we announced Dynasty Warriors: Origins back in <a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2024/05/30/dynasty-warriors-origins-revealed-for-ps5-out-2025/">May</a>, the team at Koei Tecmo and Omega Force were ecstatic to hear from fans worldwide who have been waiting to experience the next evolution of Dynasty Warriors. Today, we’re excited to share here first that the game will be available on January 17, 2025! To help celebrate the release date news, we’re also showcasing for the first time our brand-new trailer!</p>
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<p class="">Now that you’ve had the chance to check out the trailer, I can fill you in bit more on the content and what’s in store once the game hits in January as we’re introducing you to the storyline and our new protagonist for the first time.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>A Three Kingdoms told from the perspective of an original protagonist</strong></h2>
<p class="">The game takes place inside the Three Kingdoms, as this is a famous time period of ancient China in what played out as a dramatic ensemble masterpiece. In order to suppress the violent group known as the Yellow Turbans, many famous officers came together to battle them, but after the battle ended there were many questions left unanswered. Why did the officers part ways? How did that end up in the creation of the Three Kingdoms? A closer look reveals that there were many historic and beloved characters involved, each with their own relationships and agendas, which then expanded into a story about conquering kingdoms.</p>
<p class="">In this game, we have placed an original protagonist to partake in this dramatic Three Kingdoms tale, where he plays an active role while giving players a first-hand experience in the world of ancient China. Players will make various choices as the protagonist, but he too carries a secret, which will have an impact on the Three Kingdoms story. The protagonist is the player’s alter ego and is also one of the figures who helps weave the story, and it is through his existence that we will illustrate a Three Kingdoms that has never been seen before!</p>
<p class="">The protagonist is a traveling martial artist with amnesia, and during his travels he meets many famous (and infamous) warriors from the era. Some of these fighters will align with the nameless hero, while others will become his enemy as he learns to navigate the dangerous world of the Three Kingdoms. As developers, it’s exciting to us that players who are unfamiliar with the Three Kingdoms story will be able to learn and enjoy this alluring historic tale alongside the protagonist, who will act as the player’s alter ego in the game, as they fight their way through the epic story.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018687147_f2449a25f7_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018687147_f2449a25f7_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54020027330_eefdd6e4b2_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54020027330_eefdd6e4b2_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019815273_77c9a95965_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019815273_77c9a95965_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019815303_8a6309a744_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019815303_8a6309a744_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Battles</strong></h2>
<p class="">There are various situations for battles, as you may find yourself leading the way in battle on your own, or joining alongside allied officers and soldiers to charge towards large forces of enemies. You can rely on the strength of accompanying Musou officers, or issue commands to the unit you lead. With so many strategies to choose from, you really hold the key to victory at your fingertips.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018687252_a55e2345aa_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018687252_a55e2345aa_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54020027365_dfa9ebcb3e_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54020027365_dfa9ebcb3e_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Musou Officers</strong></h2>
<p class="">In the Three Kingdoms, there are many well-known and powerful officers such as Lu Bu (do not pursue Lu Bu!). Battles against these officers who possess the near superhuman strength of 1 vs. 1,000 results in combat that is highly action-oriented and will keep you on the edge of your seat. This military power also thrives within your allies, and the Companion officer that accompanies the protagonist can become temporarily playable if certain conditions are met during battle, leading to an exhilarating experience of clearing out enemies with dominance on a whole different scale.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018687172_5de3f460be_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018687172_5de3f460be_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018687152_585e07a002_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018687152_585e07a002_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Continental Map</strong></h2>
<p class="">While it is not included in the trailer, there is a continental map where players can walk around China that I also wanted to highlight. Players can explore the land as they move between battlefields, and it also provides a better understanding on where specific battlefields and cities are located, so those who are completely new to the Three Kingdoms have nothing to worry about as the map helps you learn even more about the vast land you are now discovering. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018687187_9bfa81a360_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018687187_9bfa81a360_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Now that everyone is more familiar with some of the most exciting aspects of Dynasty Warriors: Origins, we hope you watch the trailer again (and again!), and don’t forget to add the game to your wishlist before it launches January 17!</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/20240924-horizon/',
                '(For Southeast Asia) Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered is coming to PS5, PC October 31, 2024',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/436abda235b33facb9661d978d695443894760a3.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Over seven years ago, we released Horizon Zero Dawn into the wilds. Players got to meet Aloy, our leading hero, thrust into a journey of (self-)discovery in a mysterious, far-future world ravaged by deadly machines.</p>
<p class="">It was also the beginning of a thriving community of cosplayers, virtual photographers, fan artists, and content creators who inspire us to this day with their incredible creations. Horizon Zero Dawn is near and dear to many fans, as well as to everyone at Guerrilla.</p>
<p class="">And that community has not stopped growing. Each year, many millions more pick up Horizon Zero Dawn for the first time. But 7 years is a long time in the world of computer graphics; technology improves. As time moved on, we really wished that new players who join Aloy on her origin story can do it with a version that is worthy of their PS5 or compatible PC. And so, we are thrilled to announce that the game has been remastered by our talented friends at Nixxes.</p>
<p class="">Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered launches on October 31. The captivating story and awe-inspiring post-apocalyptic world returns alongside a host of technological improvements, visual enhancements, and upgraded features. It also includes The Frozen Wilds content, a vast expansion featuring additional lands, skills, weapons, and machines. Take a look at the announcement trailer below.</p>
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<p class="">Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered features over 10 hours of re-recorded conversation, mocap and countless graphical improvements that bring the game to the same visual fidelity as its critically acclaimed sequel Horizon Forbidden West. The game’s lush world includes frozen mountains, dense jungles, and arid deserts with stunning new visuals and 4K<sup>1</sup> graphics and travelling between settlements is now lightning-fast.</p>
<p class="">The story’s many compelling characters have been upgraded, bringing them in line with current generation advances in character models and rendering. We hope that improved animation, lightning, textures and more will make new and existing fans excited to dive into the action!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018624712_52a6590029_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018624712_52a6590029_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">The audio experience in Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered has been significantly enhanced. We’ve completely revamped the sound mix, now supporting PS5 Tempest 3D Audio Tech<sup>2</sup> for higher-order ambisonics and Atmos rendering for an immersive soundscape. Our sound design has also seen major improvements, with hundreds of improvements both in-game and in the cinematics. </p>
<p class="">Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered takes full advantage of the PS5 console’s power and features. The DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers ensure incredible immersion during tense combat, stealthy exploration, or scaling a gigantic Tallneck. We’ve integrated custom  haptics for the DualSense controller throughout the game, providing tactile feedback that heightens immersion. Additionally, we’ve introduced a new optional accessibility feature that utilizes sound and haptic feedback to notify players of interactable elements, such as pickups, that were previously only indicated visually. </p>
<p class="">We’re also very happy to share that Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered comes with native support for PlayStation 5 Pro. This includes a range of graphical features that have been improved to make use of the power of the PS5 Pro, while also delivering ultra-high fidelity at blazing fast framerates.   </p>
<p class="">The PC version<sup>3</sup> on Windows includes the PlayStation overlay with Trophy support and has its own set of features, such as support for ultra-wide resolutions and the latest performance enhancing technologies like NVIDIA DLSS 3 and AMD FSR 3.1 with frame generation<sup>4</sup>. We will let our Nixxes partners expand more in a future blog.</p>
<p class="">Many of the accessibility features that were first introduced in Horizon Forbidden West have been included for this Remastered version as well; remappable controls, haptic cues, and various assist toggles will enable all players to fully enjoy the game.</p>
<p class="">For those that have already played it, we’ve made sure that your old save games will work; so this is a great opportunity to dive into New Game+ or get back into Photo Mode with all your previously unlocked outfits and customizations.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018624717_619adc3c6e_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018624717_619adc3c6e_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""> We’re excited to share that pre-orders for Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered will open on 3 October for both platforms. </p>
<p class="">For existing owners of Horizon Zero Dawn (PS4, PC) and/or Horizon Zero Dawn Complete Edition (PS4, PS5, PC): you can upgrade to the digital version of Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered for SGD 13 / MYR 40 / IDR 150,000 / THB 400 on both PlayStation 5 console and on PC (via Steam or Epic Game Store). This includes fans who added the game to their libraries during PlayStation’s Play At Home initiative.<sup> 5</sup> </p>
<p class="">Owners of the Horizon Zero Dawn PS4 game disc can access this offer by inserting the game disc into their PS5 console (and will need to keep the disc inserted each time to play the game). PS4 game disc owners who buy the PS5 Digital Edition disc-free console will not be able to access the upgrade offer. </p>
<p class="">For new fans, the game can be purchased for SGD 67.9 / MYR 209 / IDR 729,000 / THB 1,690<sup>6</sup> on PlayStation Store, Steam, or Epic Game Store. You will receive the Horizon Zero Dawn Complete Edition.</p>
<p class="">We will have some more information as we get closer to release day on October 31, so keep an eye on our social channels for updates. From all of us at Guerrilla and Nixxes, thank you for your continued support!</p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em><sup>1 </sup></em><em>4K resolution requires compatible 4K TV or display.</em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em><sup>2</sup></em><em> 3D audio via built in TV speakers or analog/ USB stereo headphones.</em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em><sup>3</sup></em><em>Account for PlayStation Network required on PC.</em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em><sup>4</sup></em><em> Compatible PC and graphics card required.</em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em><sup>5 </sup></em><em>Redemptions via PlayStation Plus are not eligible to upgrade. </em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em><sup>6 </sup>Price shown in U.S. currency and may vary by country. Check PS Store at launch on October 31, 2024 for local pricing.</em></p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/25/20240925-chromacollection/',
                '(For Southeast Asia) First look at the Chroma Collection, an all-new iridescent line of PS5 accessories',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/acb97f582afa08d41c44de9d458612dca7065b54.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">As revealed during today’s State of Play, the new Chroma Collection introduces a brand new aesthetic to the PS5 family of accessories. The collection for the DualSense wireless controller and PS5 console covers for PlayStation 5 Console (model group – slim) includes three new colors that shine, shimmer, and shift colors from every angle:</p>
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<img alt="(For Southeast Asia) First look at the Chroma Collection, an all-new iridescent line of PS5 accessories" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/7AKEgRMB8Jk/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<p class=""> Chroma Pearl moves through a range of chic pinks and creams.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019732843_98b98f9a67_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019732843_98b98f9a67_o.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Chroma Indigo shifts between deep blues and vivid purples.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019944035_697ba8b6ac_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019944035_697ba8b6ac_o.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Chroma Teal shimmers through several fresh shades of green.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019838739_14d1dc4659_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019838739_14d1dc4659_o.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">To share more about Chroma Collection’s design and creative process, here’s Leo Cardoso and Satoshi Aoyagi  from our Color, Material and Finish design team:  </p>
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<p class="">“We’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to launch this collection and are thrilled to take this next colorful step in our journey. With a sleek, multichromatic finish that wrap around the entire controller, you’ll notice we’ve carefully refined the colors of every DualSense element to perfectly complement the playful, iridescent transitions.”</p>
<cite>– Leo Cardoso</cite></blockquote>
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<p class="">“Chroma Indigo moves between blue and purple, two fan-favorite colors. Chroma Teal combines yellow-green and blue-green into a fresh and exquisite shade. And if you love the Original White DualSense, you won’t want to miss out on the subtlety and elegance of the Chroma Pearl.”</p>
<cite>– Satoshi Aoyagi</cite></blockquote>
<hr class="ps-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity has-max-width-40"/>
<p class="">The Chroma DualSense wireless controllers will be available for a recommended retail price (RRP) of SGD 114 / MYR 399 / IDR 1,449,000 / THB 2,690 / PHP 4,590 / VND 2,299,000. The Chroma PS5 console covers for PlayStation 5 console (model group – slim) will be available for a recommended retail price (RRP) of SGD 95 / MYR 309 / IDR 1,109,000 / THB 2,290 / PHP 3,690 / VND 1,769,000. </p>
<p class="">Chroma Pearl and Chroma Indigo accessories launching on November 7, 2024, followed by the launch of Chroma Teal accessories on January 23, 2025. Launch date and availability for the accessories may vary by region, so be sure to check your local retailer for availability.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"></h2>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/25/gran-turismo-world-series-2024-round-3-live-in-tokyo-september-28/',
                'Gran Turismo World Series 2024 Round 3 live in Tokyo September 28',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/1c17d5956529dc41de7124d7a056303fdaaae937.jpeg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Gran Turismo players! The world’s fastest drivers will be in Tokyo on September 28 for GT World Series 2024 Round 3. </p>
<p class="">Get involved with special campaigns on <a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/gran-turismo-7/?smcid=ma">Gran Turismo 7</a> including the Predict the Winners challenge where you can earn up to 2,000,000 in-game Credits </p>
<p class="">Tokyo is the penultimate round, with the Manufacturers Cup and Nations Cup Champions set to be crowned at the World Finals in Amsterdam from December 6-8 (tickets go on sale this weekend)</p>
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<img alt="Gran Turismo World Series 2024 Round 3 live in Tokyo September 28" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/cp-i5G6zA1A/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<p class="">Round 3 of the Gran Turismo World Series 2024 takes place on Saturday, September 28 at Theater Milano-Za at the Kabukicho Tower in the Shinjuku area of Tokyo. </p>
<p class="">After a season full of stunning action and drama on track the event is sold out. But you can catch all the action live at the following times and platforms.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54016627680_bfab61f6eb_3k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54016627680_bfab61f6eb_3k.jpg"/></a></p>
<p class=""><strong>Manufacturers Cup</strong> – 00:00 PDT | EDT 03:00 | UTC 07:00 | CEST 09:00 | Local time JST 16:00</p>
<p class=""><strong>Nations Cup</strong> – 03:00 PDT | EDT 06:00 | UTC 10:00 | CEST 12:00 | Local time JST 19:00</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>The Gran Turismo website – <a href="https://www.gran-turismo.com/world/live/">https://www.gran-turismo.com/world/live/</a> </li>
<li>YouTube – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@GRANTURISMOTV">https://www.youtube.com/@GRANTURISMOTV</a> </li>
<li>Twitch – <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/granturismoofficial">https://www.twitch.tv/granturismoofficial</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Win big and race like the best on Gran Turismo 7</h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54015290687_3f3ad7fa4d_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54015290687_3f3ad7fa4d_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">As ever, there are plenty of ways to get involved in the World Series in-game. By clicking on the Predict the Winners campaign banner on the GT7 World Map, players can win one million credits for each of the Nations Cup and the Manufacturers Cup with votes cast right up to the start of the final race of each.</p>
<p class="">Simply watching the broadcast in-game will also unlock some special iconic Japanese race cars in GT7 through the Viewers Gift campaign. Players watching the Manufacturers Cup will receive the Mazda 787B while watching the Nations Cup in-game unlocks the Xanavi Nismo GT-R (GT500) ’08.</p>
<p class="">Players can also take part in two special challenges in Gran Turismo 7 that reflect the car and track combinations from the show in Tokyo. The Nations Cup Grand Final is mirrored with an Online Time Trial featuring the X2019 Competition car on the Grand Valley Highway 1 so that players can check how they compare with the Nations Cup qualifying times. A Daily Race in Gran Turismo 7 will feature Gr. 3 cars on Australia’s Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit, the same combination as the Manufacturers Cup Grand Final.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gran Turismo World Series 2024 – The story so far</h2>
<p class=""><strong>Round 1</strong><br/><strong>Usine-C, Montreal, Canada</strong><br/><strong>Saturday, July 6</strong></p>
<p class="">The Manufacturers Cup race saw a familiar face back on top of the podium when Igor Fraga drove a faultless race for Team Lexus at the Autódromo de Interlagos. The Brazilian headed Italy’s Valerio Gallo, driving for Team Honda, and Japan’s Team Porsche driver Takuma Sasaki.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54016524784_6ffa67c6ad_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54016524784_6ffa67c6ad_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">In the Nations Cup Japanese driver Takuma Miyazono, 2020 Nations Cup Champion, showed exceptional speed and strategic guile at the Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta circuit to take the win by less than a second from hard-charging Spaniards Jose Serrano and Coque López. </p>
<p class=""><strong>Round 2</strong><br/><strong>Divadlo Hybernia, Prague, Czech Republic</strong><br/><strong>Saturday, August 10</strong></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54016420953_7fbf63d6ea_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54016420953_7fbf63d6ea_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">The Manufacturers Cup field was packed with some of the biggest names in competitive Gran Turismo racing. After a tense race, with weather conditions on Gran Turismo’s Dragon Trail Seaside circuit adding to the intensity, few would have predicted that a World Series rookie would take a highly impressive victory for Team Ferrari. Mohamed Buhdeima, a 20-year-old Briton, held off a strong challenge from another debutant, Team Porsche’s Benjamin Hencsei from Hungary, by just 0.092 seconds. France’s Thomas Labouteley, driving for BMW, completed the podium.</p>
<p class="">Team Porsche now heads to Tokyo with the series lead on 9 points. Montreal winners Team Lexus sits in second on 7 points, while Buhdeima’s excellent win in Prague takes Team Ferrari to third.</p>
<p class="">The Italian national anthem sounded a second time in Prague when popular 2021 Nations Cup Champion Valerio Gallo returned to form with an emotional victory in a truly spectacular Grand Final held at the Red Bull Ring. Gallo narrowly defeated France’s Kylian Drumont and an incredible drive saw Spain’s Coque López storm from the very back of the grid to claim 3rd place.</p>
<p class="">The results leave 2022 and 2023 champion López sitting atop the Nations Cup standings with 8 points. Valerio Gallo’s win moves him to second with 7 points, while Takuma Miyazono (who failed to score in Prague) is third on 6 points.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Watch this weekend for World Final ticket details</strong></h3>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54016196166_fe75e9a54b_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54016196166_fe75e9a54b_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Details of how and where to buy tickets for the 2024 World Finals will be announced during the broadcast on Saturday.</p>
<p class="">Amsterdam will host three days of the very best SIM racing action in early December: The Toyota Gazoo Racing GT Cup starts proceedings on Friday, December 6; the Manufacturers Cup will re-unite all three drivers from the 12 manufacturer teams on Saturday, December 7; and on Sunday, December 8 the Nations Cup World Champion will be crowned at Theater Amsterdam.<br/>Keep an eye on <a href="https://www.gran-turismo.com/world/news/">https://www.gran-turismo.com/world/news/</a> for more details.</p>
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            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/25/first-look-report-ps5-pro-games/',
                'First-look report: PS5 Pro games',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/0566ad04af9c0c5a7b36c043d7a826dd2b8876a8.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Kristen and I got a chance to go eyes on (and hands on) with the <a href="https://www.playstation.com/ps5/ps5-pro/?smcid=ma">PlayStation Pro console</a> for the first time, and first impressions are promising. Though we didn’t have to time fully investigate every one of the games at last week’s hands-on event, even a cursory review of the PS5 Pro Enhanced games on display revealed immediate and noticeable benefits compared to the current PS5 console.</p>
<p class="">It was interesting to see how different studios leveraged PS5 Pro’s advanced hardware. Many PS5 games currently allow players to choose between Fidelity and Performance modes to cater to players’ tastes. Some of the PS5 Pro games we saw seemed to combine the benefits of both high fidelity and high performance, taking the experience to another level.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019804275_50b9ada55a_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019804275_50b9ada55a_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">This “best of both worlds” approach was fully apparent in <strong>Horizon Forbidden West</strong>‘s Pro Performance mode expected to land on November 7 with the launch of PS5 Pro. Compared to the stock Performance mode on PS5, the extra horsepower afforded by PS5 Pro allows for the same high framerate while massively improving image quality. Visual grittiness in fine environmental details like moss, leaves, and the red stealth bushes is banished, but even some textures and holograms looked noticeably cleaner and crisper. The Pro Performance mode also benefits the game’s volumetric effects; misty sunbeams were free of distracting shimmers and strobing we noticed in the PS5’s stock Performance mode.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019804260_6468dc27f7_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019804260_6468dc27f7_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth </strong>sported an impressive PS5 Pro glow up, sporting a high framerate and pin-sharp presentation in its new Enhanced Mode due out November 7. While exploring the countryside, we observed crystal clear vistas devoid of distracting shimmering and visual noise, particularly in classic trouble spots like far-off trees and structures. Then we visited the Gold Saucer’s high-contrast environments, where the neon lights resolved cleanly against the darker environment surfaces. Perhaps more importantly, the high framerate had tangible benefits for combat and traversal, making this a significant upgrade.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019804270_efe78076f5_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019804270_efe78076f5_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>The Last of Us Part II</strong> <strong>Remastered </strong>gave another impressive demonstration of PS5 Pro’s vision of high visual quality married to a high framerate. Blades of grass and leaves resolved cleanly, without any distracting shimmering effects or visual noise. Similarly, <strong>Marvel’s Spider-Man 2</strong> was observed running at both a high frame rate and crisp Fidelity-mode resolution and feature set, including its signature ray-traced reflections. It wove a gorgeous presentation overall, balancing small trade-offs to provide the best-looking Marvel’s Spider-Man<em> </em>2<em> </em>experience we’ve seen on PlayStation.</p>
<p class="">Which brings up another topic: ray tracing has seen a more than 2x performance boost on PS5 Pro. And while not every game leverages this unique technology, we’re seeing some very interesting results in early PS5 Pro testing.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019699294_58b40821d5_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019699294_58b40821d5_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Hogwarts Legacy</strong> is taking a unique approach for PS5 Pro by emphasizing ray tracing quality via its new Fidelity ray tracing Mode due out at the console’s launch. Based on what we saw, this new mode provides a big boost to the lighting system by adding raytraced shadows and enhancing raytraced reflections, all while targeting a stable 30 fps. Seeing your character realistically reflected in a suit of armor is a stunning demonstration of ray tracing’s potential, while the upgraded RT shadows bring another visual flourish to an already polished game. Though ray tracing seems to be the main focus for developer Avalanche, the game’s Performance Mode and Fidelity Mode will see quality enhancements too.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019699299_74b9bd8136_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019699299_74b9bd8136_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>GT7</strong> is targeting a November release for a new patch that will add several new PS5 Pro-focused rendering modes, including a Raytrace Priority mode that adds eye-catching new car reflections. <strong>F1 24</strong> is upgrading its Quality mode to add new ray tracing effects that shined particularly on rain-soaked courses and made the tracks feel more realistic and immersive.</p>
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<p class="">GT7 will also include an optional and experimental 8K/60fps rendering mode that emphasizes hyper-crisp, hyper-clean visuals (yes, you have to have an 8K display).</p>
<p class="">Those are just our first impressions. We can’t wait to get more time with PS5 Pro when it launches on November 7.</p>
<p class=""><em><a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/ps5-pro-developers-share-how-theyre-using-new-tech-to-enhance-their-games/">Learn more about how game creators are taking advantage of the PlayStation 5 Pro console.</a></em></p>
<p class=""><em>Ray tracing and high frame rate gameplay features only available on select PS5 games that have been enhanced for PS5 Pro when compared with PS5. PS5 Pro enhanced features will vary by game. Enhanced features require a compatible display.</em></p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/25/like-a-dragon-pirate-yakuza-in-hawaii-hands-on-report/',
                'Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii – hands-on report',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2025/09/0cb08b289a4ca96c7f85c89356f6dbaf8b3ef65e.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, slated for release on February 28 is an action-adventure game that stars Goro Majima as the sole protagonist for the first time. After losing his memory and being stranded on Rich Island near Hawaii, Majima takes on the role of a pirate and sets out on a grand oceanic adventure. Recently showcased at the Tokyo Game Show 2024, I had the opportunity to get hands-on with this highly anticipated title, and here’s my impression of the gameplay experience.</p>
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<img alt="Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii – hands-on report" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/_8M4X7glFUM/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Pirate’s life</strong></h2>
<p class="">In this hands-on preview, players control Majima as he embarks on an adventure in Hawaii, engaging in battles and activities. At the start of the game, Majima is shown traveling by ship with his crew, including Jason, his son Noah, and Masaru, a chef and bodyguard. Their goal is to reach the secret criminal island of Madlantis, but they make a stop in Honolulu to prepare.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021162121_d596f65655_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021162121_d596f65655_k.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mad Dog and Sea Dog style</strong></h2>
<p class="">As Majima and Noah stroll along the beach, the battle tutorial begins. Unlike the RPG live-command system of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, this title returns to Majima’s action-packed, brawling roots, last seen in Yakuza Kiwami 2. Players can switch between two battle styles, Mad Dog and Sea Dog, with the latter involving a transformation into pirate-themed attire with a completely different move set.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021501494_d7bf7b00bd_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021501494_d7bf7b00bd_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">In the Mad Dog style, Majima primarily uses his fists and a dagger for combat. Compared to Kazuma Kiryu, Majima’s movements are noticeably quicker, with agile footwork and rapid attacks. A standout feature of this style is the ability to jump, allowing Majima to perform air combos. Players can enjoy the satisfaction of launching enemies into the air and continuing their attacks mid-air. The extended airtime makes it easy to execute aerial combos for those unfamiliar with action games.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021162111_8585f4261f_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021162111_8585f4261f_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Additionally, as time passes or when Heat Actions are activated, the Madness Gauge in the top left corner of the screen fills up, allowing Majima to create doppelgangers. Four shadowy duplicates of Majima appear and begin attacking nearby enemies. It’s exhilarating to see Majima at the center, spinning like a top with his clones and knocking enemies around.</p>
<p class="">The Sea Dog style focuses on attacks using pirate-themed weapons, especially the cutlass, a curved, single-edged sword pirates carry around in films. Majima can dual-wield cutlasses to slash enemies and even throw them like boomerangs. The Charge Gun increases in power the longer the button is held, and there’s also the option to use a Chain Hook. This allows Majima to either attack from a distance or quickly close the gap with enemies, offering versatile combat strategies depending on the situation.</p>
<p class="">In combat, you can seamlessly switch between the two battle styles at any time. Even players who aren’t comfortable with action games can enjoy flashy, dynamic moves by mixing and matching these styles. The Sea Dog style in particular, with its use of pirate-themed tools and unique actions, is sure to become addictive. Similar to Kiryu’s gadget-based Agent style from Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, Majima’s Pirate style offers a tricky way to fight.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Play around in Honolulu</strong></h2>
<p class="">After completing the battle tutorial, I was able to explore and enjoy various activities in Honolulu freely. I got to try out popular features like Karaoke and Boutique, along with the explosive race Dragon Kart and the stunt-based delivery game, Crazy Delivery. Though these activities are familiar to players, experiencing them as Majima instead of Ichiban Kasuga brought a fresh twist to the gameplay.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021610890_57508e422b_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021610890_57508e422b_k.jpg"/></a>
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<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021400603_2fdcaeea6c_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021400603_2fdcaeea6c_k.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mobs of Madlantis</strong></h2>
<p class="">After playing for a while, you can talk to Jason, and finally set foot on the island of Madlantis. It’s a desolate place known as a ship graveyard, where criminal organizations coexist together. The island exudes an atmosphere of decay, and you’ll frequently get into fights with rowdy individuals. Additionally, there are gambling spots to enjoy games like poker.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021610870_0debf23576_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021610870_0debf23576_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">As you gather information from the roughnecks and head towards the bar where a rival pirate called Keith resides, a battle ensues. Surrounded by a horde of henchmen, Majima’s combat skills truly shine. Using the Mad Dog style, you can confuse enemies with swift, acrobatic moves while wielding your dagger. On the other hand, the Sea Dog style allows you to unleash wide-range attacks with dual swords. The one-on-one fight with Keith offers thrilling action, as you dodge, guard, and strike at opportune moments.</p>
<p class="">While the idea of Majima becoming a pirate might seem far-fetched, the gameplay proves to be a solid action-adventure experience. Majima’s characteristic Mad Dog persona shines through, showing that even with memory loss, he can’t help but enjoy the thrill of battle. There’s much to look forward to when Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii launches on February 28 on PS5.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/25/monster-hunter-wilds-hands-on-with-the-opening-missions/',
                'Monster Hunter Wilds: hands-on with the opening missions',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/7046f51bd8448770bd76169c854ab3825f11d572.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Monster Hunter Wilds, the next entry in the popular hunting action game series is set to release on February 28 on PS5. I had an opportunity to play the Story Quest at the Tokyo Game Show 2024, where I immersed myself in the gameplay from the introduction of the new story to the intense battle against a frog-like amphibian monster, the Chatacabra. </p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Monster chase in Windward Plains</h2>
<p class="">The Story Quest kicked off with the enjoyable process of creating my character. I had the freedom to customize every detail of the hunter’s appearance and even that of the hunter’s trusted partner, Palico.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021817773_eef65cb49d_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021817773_eef65cb49d_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">As the story began, I found myself traversing Windward Plains in a sand ship with the Forbidden Lands Research Commission. Through flashbacks you’ll learn how your character became a part of the commission. Suddenly, the scene cut to a nerve-racking chase, where a herd of desert-dwelling Balaharas are in hot pursuit of a girl riding a Seikret. Without a moment of hesitation, I leaped onto a Seikret and gave chase to rescue the girl.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54022028765_db3d2e3653_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54022028765_db3d2e3653_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Balahara chase</h2>
<p class="">During this chase scene my Seikret was on autopilot to catch up to the girl. However, with some freedom to control the camera view and my ridable partner, I immersed myself in the action as I jumped over boulders and slalomed through the air to close the distance.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021580351_6289a61b6f_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021580351_6289a61b6f_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">When I finally caught up to the girl, it was my turn to be pursued by the hordes of formidable Balaharas in a heart-pounding chase. They were relentless, closing in on us from every possible direction as I dashed through the desert, attacking them with my slinger to fire sonic bombs.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021919894_616dc4f706_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021919894_616dc4f706_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Seikret joy ride</h2>
<p class="">Upon discovering that the young girl was separated from her brother, the hunter decided to find him. To gain more insight before embarking on the mission, I sought the advice of the Handler, Alma. She gave me a valuable recommendation on which one of all 14 available weapons I should take on the journey.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54022028835_c3d1444a00_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54022028835_c3d1444a00_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021817798_b2c2b408d3_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021817798_b2c2b408d3_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Luckily, the girl’s Seikret remembered the scent of her missing brother so it knew exactly where to go. Though I was guided to the location automatically, having complete control over the Seikret’s movements was liberating. I could accelerate and decelerate using the R1 and R2, respectively, while holding them made it dash forward or come to a quick stop. With the left stick, as expected, I guided my mount in the direction I wanted it to go. From time-to-time, I made detours, stopping off at places that grabbed my attention. I even took advantage of the hands-free ride to gather hunting items, materials, and wield my weapon.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New wound system and SOS flare in the Chatacabra hunt</h2>
<p class="">Soon after arriving at the locale, a simple mission of searching for the brother quickly escalated to a hunt for a formidable foe as I found the girl’s brother in imminent danger from a Chatacabra’s attack. Leveraging the new wound system, I attacked the same weak point persistently to inflict significant damage. Also new to Monster Hunter Wilds, Focus mode is activated by holding down L2 to display a reticle on the screen for guidance on where to attack, and a red highlight on the monster’s wounds for easier aiming. The ability to change the target point, even during the attack motion, allowed me to effectively attack the weak point despite using a weighty, slow-motion weapon like the Great Sword.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021817833_fdbaa6e9b3_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021817833_fdbaa6e9b3_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54022028870_972357f1de_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54022028870_972357f1de_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">By pressing R1 in Focus mode, I uncovered the strategic Focus Strike. This special attack works by connecting with a wound or weak point, and it proved to deal massive damage and stun the foe. Undoubtedly one of the most satisfying moments in the game was when I managed to destroy multiple wounds with a single Focus Attack.<br/><br/>During hunting, you can summon your Siekret by pressing the directional key for swift mounting. Once mounted, I strategically drank a healing potion to restore my health and used a whetstone to sharpen my weapon.</p>
<p class="">Another unique feature is the SOS Flare, a tool that calls in aid from NPC support hunters. The monster’s rage is likely to be redirected when other hunters join the fray. This is an excellent way for novice players of this series to divert damage. Although this feature wasn’t available during the offline single-player demo, I learned that you can recruit other players while summoning support hunters while online.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54020684827_9a56446714_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54020684827_9a56446714_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New stories unfold in <strong>the Forbidden Lands</strong></h2>
<p class="">After defeating the Chatacabra, I hurried back to the camp with the rescued brother. The main mission in the first chapter concluded with the newly reunited siblings sharing tales to catch up.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021580441_6426d8632b_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021580441_6426d8632b_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">The Story Quest was rich in content, from the gripping Balahara chase scene to leveraging the wound system and Focus mode in the challenging hunt for the elusive Chatacabra. As players step into the main mission, I’m convinced new hunters and those about to uncover the series for the first time will find themselves mesmerized by the world that unfolds when Monster Hunter Wilds launches February 28 on PS5.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/26/the-last-of-us-joins-playstations-30th-anniversary-celebrations/',
                'The Last of Us joins PlayStation’s 30th Anniversary celebrations',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/e9b9b4184b8e194a7dee8aa7a520cdd71c0ae0b1-scaled.jpeg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">As <a href="https://www.playstation.com/30th-anniversary/">PlayStation celebrates its 30th Anniversary</a>, we’re excited to share some thrilling news with our PlayStation Plus members. To make this milestone even more special, we’re adding one of the most beloved titles to the Game Catalog: The Last of Us Part I. PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium members* will have the chance to experience or revisit the unforgettable journey of Ellie and Joel. Fittingly, the game will be available today, in time to mark the series’ own The Last of Us Day celebrations, September 26.</p>
<p class="">To make this occasion even more memorable, we’ve lined up several exclusive activities for our community:</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021861323_27ca510041_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021861323_27ca510041_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PlayStation Stars Campaign</h2>
<p class="">From September 26 to November 26, all PlayStation Stars members that play The Last of Us Part I, which is in the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog*, will earn a fearsome Clicker Digital Collectible. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021622711_8935554c76_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54021622711_8935554c76_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New PlayStation Plus Avatars</h2>
<p class="">Starting September 26, known by fans and Naughty Dog as The Last of Us Day, you can redeem a voucher code for new PS5 and PS4 avatars featuring key characters from The Last of Us. Choose from Ellie, Joel, or even a Clicker to personalize your profile. The voucher will be available on the PlayStation Plus website and on The Last of Us Page on the PS Plus Hub on your console. The avatars will be available until October 26.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54022072300_23313dc89a_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54022072300_23313dc89a_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Discount on PlayStation Gear</h2>
<p class="">Show off your fandom with official The Last of Us merchandise! From September 26 to October 26, PlayStation Plus members can enjoy a 10% discount on select The Last of Us merchandise at PlayStation Gear. Simply use the promo code <strong>TLOUPLUS10</strong> at checkout. Visit <a href="https://gear.playstation.com/">gear.playstation.com</a>  to explore all the items and find the perfect addition to your collection.**</p>
<p class="">We hope you enjoy these activities as well as the chance to revisit or experience Ellie and Joel’s unforgettable journey when The Last of Us Part I launches onto PlayStation Plus Game Catalog later today.</p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>*Game Catalog varies over time, region/country, and plan. PS Plus is subject to a recurring subscription fee taken automatically until cancellation. Terms apply: play.st/psplus-usageterms.</em><br/><br/><em>**Some exclusions Limit one per customer. Must use code at checkout for discount. Only valid on The Last of Us Products.</em></p>
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                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/27/share-of-the-week-astro-bot-vip-bots/',
                'Share of the Week: Astro Bot – VIP Bots',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/cf31e1b1ecdf70749885f129e70d8df1cfe7c02e.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Last week, we asked you to share your favorite VIP Bot cameos in Astro Bot using #PSshare #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights:</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019631754_df4a045a33_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019631754_df4a045a33_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/TheFourthFocus/status/1838605452126400594/photo/1"><em>TheFourthFocus</em></a><em> shares the Machine Hunter/Aloy VIP Bot in action.</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019631674_81cb62f16e_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019631674_81cb62f16e_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/DiogOliveiraVP/status/1837834399749898738/photo/1"><em>DiogOliveiraVP</em></a><em> </em><em>shares Astro posing with the Lovestruck Lyricist/PaRappa VIP Bot.</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018398602_fdcc393635_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54018398602_fdcc393635_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/omegangell/status/1837962701274075516/photo/2"><em>omegangell</em></a><em> shares the Roguish Conduit/Delsin Rowe VIP Bot blazing through the skies.</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019526643_2f7650674d_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019526643_2f7650674d_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/shimo_ps/status/1838160315038744955/photo/2"><em>shimo_ps</em></a><em> shares the Dependable Smuggler/Joel VIP Bot protecting the Immune Survivor/Ellie VIP Bot from the Fungus Head/Click VIP Bot.</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019631629_26bcb77fea_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019631629_26bcb77fea_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/spideyfan0480/status/1833904034270322991/photo/3"><em>spideyfan0480</em></a><em> shares Astro decked out to match the Dad of Boy/Kratos VIP Bot.</em></p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019299181_21b4398206_b.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019299181_21b4398206_b.jpg" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/i3ecci_/status/1833783687218942134/photo/1"><em>i3ecci</em></a><em> </em><em>shares the Tooled-Up Mechanic/Ratchet standing beside the rift jumping Multiversal Rebel/Rivet.</em></p>
<p class="">Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week?</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019631624_551499f95c_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54019631624_551499f95c_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">THEME: Astro Bot – Levels<br/>SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on October 2, 2024</p>
<p class="">Next week, we’re blasting across the galaxies to highlight Astro Bot’s levels. Share your favorite level using #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/30/starship-troopers-continuums-upgrade-and-perk-system-leans-into-the-original-sci-fi-films-mythology/',
                'Starship Troopers: Continuum’s upgrade and perk system leans into the original sci-fi film’s mythology',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/09/67742f8b54d3a8bbbfcf0a568db1b194e605d46f-scaled.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">On October 31, <a data-id="https://store.playstation.com/concept/10008747" data-type="link" href="https://store.playstation.com/concept/10008747">Starship Troopers: Continuum will be released on PS VR2</a>. This multiplayer co-op shooting game is the first to recreate Starship Troopers in virtual reality. This blog will explain what the game’s name actually means. But first, please welcome a very special guest! The face of FedNet, hero of Klendathu, General Johnny Rico!</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A word from Casper Van Dien</h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54024191695_0b0bcf3640_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54024191695_0b0bcf3640_4k.jpg"/></a>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">
<p class="">“I guess I’m the closest thing Starship Troopers has for a hero. My character, Johnny Rico, has been with me for nearly 30 years. He spends most of the first movie surrounded by death. He’s responsible for a death in training. He’s mistakenly K.I.A on Klendathu. He’s promoted when Troopers die around him, falling upwards through the ranks. </p>
<p class="">‘A citizen accepts personal responsibility for the safety of the body politic, defending it with his life; a civilian does not.’</p>
<p class="">In the end, Rico’s changed. He takes that quote to heart and becomes willing – even keen – to die for the cause. He becomes harder, stronger, more pragmatic… but at what cost? </p>
<p class="">In Starship Troopers: Continuum, Rico’s a figurehead for FedNet’s ‘Klendathu 25’ celebration. I’m helping recruit new meat for the grinder, and you’re the meat. You play Mobile Infantry Troopers as they battle the opposing Arachnid force. Thousands will die on both sides. You’re disposable. Mobile Infantry does the dying, and that’s what this game is all about. </p>
<p class="">VR puts you right there, on the battlefield with your squad, facing big, fast, mean and lethal bugs. Like Rico, you’re surrounded by death. So eyes front, Trooper! It’s your duty to take responsibility and defend the Federation with your life! Or do you wanna live forever?” </p>
</blockquote>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Authenticity evolved</h2>
<p class="">In developing Starship Troopers: Continuum, we at XR Games wanted to capture the essence of Starship Troopers. As Casper says, that’s the meat grinder. This war is dangerous, and the bugs are lethal. You will die. </p>
<p class="">Then accept your rewards, choose a new Trooper, and start again. Kill bugs, earn money, gain EXP. Survive long enough and you can retire your Trooper into citizenship, with the extra bonus that brings. Or don’t, and die, and try again. This is the meat grinder.<br/><br/>Of course, you bank your progress. You earn new perks and guns to arm your next Trooper with. You get to make a stronger build. The mechanism by which you do this is called the Continuum. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54023980253_23c0687508_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54023980253_23c0687508_4k.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Enter the Continuum</h2>
<p class="">Remember Cyrano the ferret?</p>
<p class="">Starship Troopers: Continuum takes place 25 years after Klendathu, and there’s been a breakthrough in psychic research – the Continuum. This technology creates a psychic interface through which soldiers called PsyCommanders can control other human beings, like Cyrano in the movie.</p>
<p class="">In Starship Troopers: Continuum, the moment you don your VR headset, you’re connected to the Continuum in the role of a PsyCommander. You control one Trooper at a time. Die, and you can immediately take a new Trooper. Your goal is to keep them alive… but accidents happen!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54024191675_8544d3f686_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54024191675_8544d3f686_4k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">As a PsyCommander, you have access to perks via the Continuum. As you level up, you gain access to more perks and super-perks, which can be injected into your Trooper to improve their performance. As your Trooper ranks up, they can take on more perks simultaneously, allowing for build combinations to tune your play. For instance, equip Psychosis Blast to add damage to your dash ability, then complement it with Adrenaline to reduce your dash cooldown time. Throw in Tactical Relocation – move faster as you kill more – and you have a speed build! </p>
<p class="">Plus, the more you use your perks, the stronger they get. Even if your Trooper dies, a future Trooper can take on that perk at its advanced level. This is the meaning of the Continuum. Even as Troopers die, the Continuum becomes stronger, justifying every Trooper sacrificed on the battlefield, redeeming every drop of blood that’s shed!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54024079184_0ee257388f_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54024079184_0ee257388f_4k.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Build your Trooper, form your squad</h2>
<p class="">Starship Troopers: Continuum is an online multiplayer game, great with 1 to 3 players. So build complementary Troopers for battlefield dominance! 20+ weapons and 40+ perks allow you to create a different Trooper every time. Keep them alive, hit the criteria for citizenship, and gain big bonuses that’ll make you even more powerful. But don’t underestimate the bug! They’re fast and lethal, with some tricks you’ve not seen yet!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54024079189_8148063374_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54024079189_8148063374_4k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">I’m doing my part! How will you do yours?</p>
<p class=""><a href="https://store.playstation.com/concept/10008747">Starship Troopers: Continuum for PS VR2 is released on October 31</a>.</p>
<p class="">There are many other ways to kill bugs this October! Starship Troopers: Extermination, the 16-player co-op FPS developed by Offworld Industries and published by Knights Peak, will arrive on PlayStation 5 on October 11.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/10/01/players-choice-vote-for-september-2024s-best-new-game/',
                'Players’ Choice – Astro Bot voted September 2024’s top new game',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/10/f0b1bec384cb22d0d2c05e4cc9a9cf2929c09e27.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Your votes have spoken: Astro Bot’s platforming prowess wins Players’ Choice for September. Congrats to Team Asobi!</p>
<p class="">What games have you been playing in October? Share predictions on what will win for this month in the comments below.</p>
<hr class="ps-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>
<p class="">September had many games for the kid and the warrior in us all. What did you enjoy most about last month’s title lineup? </p>
<p class=""><strong>How does it work?</strong> At the end of every month, PlayStation Blog will open a poll where you can vote for the best new game released that month. After the polls close we will tally your votes, and announce the winner on our social channels and PlayStation.Blog. </p>
<p class=""><strong>What is the voting criteria?</strong> That’s up to you! If you were only able to recommend one new release to a friend that month, which would it be? Note: re-released games don’t qualify, but remakes do. We define remakes as ambitious, larger-scale rebuilds such as Resident Evil 4 (2023) and Final Fantasy VII Remake.</p>
<p class=""><strong>How are nominees decided?</strong> The PlayStation Blog editorial team will gather a list of that month’s most noteworthy releases and use it to seed the poll.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/10/01/silent-hill-2-new-gameplay-reveals-intense-flesh-lip-boss-fight-and-introduces-laura/',
                'Silent Hill 2: New gameplay reveals intense Flesh Lip boss fight and introduces Laura',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/10/c00b5aa1cb1b8336c646d06019d67e5f570dd962.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">The release of <a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/silent-hill-2/?smcid=ma">Silent Hill 2</a> is just around the corner on October 8. We’re honored to be able to share detailed information about Silent Hill 2 with PlayStation players. Konami and Bloober Team have focused on respecting the original 2001 Silent Hill 2’s storyline, emphasizing the emotional expressions of each character through the highly skilled performances of their respective actors, and modernizing the overall gameplay. We hope that this very clear comparison will show you which aspects of the original the production team has respected and emphasized, as well as which aspects have been improved upon.</p>
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<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size has-max-width-80 has-margin-bottom-25"><em><strong>Spoiler Alert: </strong>This article and video reveal some narrative and gameplay surprises within Silent Hill 2.</em></p>
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<p class="">For this episode of PlayStation Underground, Bloober Team partnered up with the SIE crew to bring you an exclusive look at James’ confrontation with Flesh Lip inside Brookhaven Hospital, presented in a head-to-head comparison with the same boss battle as it appears in the original game.</p>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Caption: Join Bloober Team’s Mateusz Lenart, Creative Director, and Andrzej Mądrzak, Lead Writer, for a look inside Brookhaven Hospital.</em></p>
<p class="">In many ways, this boss fight, alongside its accompanying cutscene, exemplifies the approach we took when reimagining Silent Hill 2. It shows our reverence for the original game by staying true to its original design, while also expanding upon it using modern technology that allows players to feel more in control of James.</p>
<p class="">As you can see, the general set-up for Laura’s cutscene that predates the battle and the Flesh Lip encounter itself are quite faithful to the original game, but with a few key changes that enable us to take full advantage of current storytelling and combat design techniques.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396930"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://stream.mux.com/tDYXCO6vfeKWpsGR9idWO6vIFeroATkCjT232YtxcMM/capped-1080p.mp4?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJ0RFlYQ082dmZlS1dwc0dSOWlkV082dklGZXJvQVRrQ2pUMjMyWXR4Y01NIiwiYXVkIjoidiIsImV4cCI6MTczODAyMTg0OCwia2lkIjoiNEw1eU9janJWMU5VcVZ6Y1V2SkJuMXdUbTRlVEdHOU1oMDIwMVlrNWp1OU5BIn0.mZvqYrb-Nx6lsh09-eqjFByXpgzlstPyX-FR8LDwenQGBxSVxqrlR6iNwXxcmsk8WWld4_Fl17v-5C8BK6TUN26Eohoku7X0Lcl9-GOX5nRB1U0A00FQ5clNbgRWGO39tsrj-dD75RoY99Y_kxCVBso-s_yN6DxXLDXioZ_2GFdyJTawUsaCWHGGcuxF4t85XAcwfsSaMEO-iBMgnbeGG-YYhaT-epy46IDcVs2MiAeAj0pKNdXgf1MODGrplPPhOJSpXk6WhV2uODm4du7liKNOF_8GM7DKGJbfPlNLztgv6z5qicTTSw3NWxcR_3_o68E0bilO7mLeoI_vjdfJxw" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Caption: Comparison between 2001 Silent Hill 2 and the 2024 Silent Hill 2 remake</em><strong> </strong></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Familiar characters come alive</h2>
<p class="">For Laura’s cutscene, the interaction between her and James maintains the same story beats as in the original. Both James’ and Laura’s personalities have been preserved, with the most significant changes coming in the form of more involved camera work and top-notch voice acting.</p>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Caption: The full cutscene between James and Laura from the 2024 Silent Hill 2 remake, without commentary.</em></p>
<p class="">Full-body motion capture, used in conjunction with detailed animation, has allowed us to make these characters come alive through subtle facial expressions and gestures. The performances of the actors were key in this respect, with both Evie Templeton and Luke Roberts really embodying the characters of Laura and James, respectively.</p>
<p class="">When it comes to the script itself, we wanted to avoid changing things for the sake of changing them. While minor deviations from the original game’s script can be expected, our main objective with this cutscene and all others was to capture the complex character dynamics that made the original Silent Hill 2 such a landmark in the history of interactive storytelling.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396931"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/10/595d798d6ffb3841ac1ec5bd29ed5b4d949f6b63.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Caption: Comparison between 2001 Silent Hill 2 and the 2024 Silent Hill 2 remake</em></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A boss battle for the ages</h2>
<p class="">The encounter with Flesh Lip is one of Silent Hill 2’s most startling moments. With its unique and unnerving look, Flesh Lip was groundbreaking in terms of integrating symbolism into the design of a monster. Doing this boss battle justice in the new game was a challenging but ultimately rewarding task.</p>
<p class="">Unlike the fixed camera system in the original Silent Hill 2, adopting an over-the-shoulder perspective brought with it a series of changes to the encounter’s design. For instance, the scale of the room where the fight occurs has been expanded to allow players more space to roam.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396965"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://stream.mux.com/6sOw6bBTzvNA17qXep202vm63kTaWiBXF3DfJDDdOa78/capped-1080p.mp4?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiI2c093NmJCVHp2TkExN3FYZXAyMDJ2bTYza1RhV2lCWEYzRGZKRERkT2E3OCIsImF1ZCI6InYiLCJleHAiOjE3MzgwMjE4NDgsImtpZCI6IjRMNXlPY2pyVjFOVXFWemNVdkpCbjF3VG00ZVRHRzlNaDAyMDFZazVqdTlOQSJ9.fuSo6tfiX_VNgSc0UG67zmb3cKoX4nwSjm59nblSvXyGk8pRXdftQ6bls7ZLNx6ZfdID5R2mcPfUGa_PkILpPrx3OoTDLhgefm8uLTvtqrn2NgCLhxE7WMH0eKYO_oM7VK2kZtjxSQQ1T4AlYIJBumwh4Rw2-3QbjmkLShsXQHi-b_9U-d8rECRkBNtiJG3SDXHz1yPEz2XzGzmKfxi5lJOllL25YiStVTpMko8MWBLl_3Zfyy0VY8aj_frO1Vbyw7RqSdtiMOYmJeC5JiH3sREJYxl-j_CGTd25NinqbrHxy_n6G1-NcHC4J8ebtObKCmKrA3_I8LJ--xLyFZ3Wcg" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Caption: <em>Comparison between 2001 Silent Hill 2 and the 2024 Silent Hill 2 remake</em></em></p>
<p class="">But the biggest change in the design of the boss fight has to do with Flesh Lip himself. Instead of facing two of them right from the start, the battle now begins with a single foe, but one who can dynamically move through the ceiling, ready to pounce on James at any point.</p>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Caption: The Flesh Lip battle takes on a new shape in the Silent Hill 2 remake</em><em><br/></em></p>
<p class="">Moreover, once players manage to bring Flesh Lip down to the ground, he unveils his second phase, adopting a menacing spider-like pose that greatly enhances his speed and range of attack. To counteract this, players will have to use a combination of melee and ranged attacks, while also dealing with Flesh Lip’s terrifying scream, which can temporarily stun them during the fight.</p>
<p class="">Once Flesh Lip is defeated, players will likely breathe a sigh of relief. But that’s when the battle’s final surprise arrives. A second Flesh Lip appears and instantly grabs James by the neck, dragging him further into the underbelly of Brookhaven Hospital. This functions as both a jump scare in its own right, and also as a kind of easter egg for fans of the original game. They will likely be taken aback by the appearance of a second Flesh Lip just as the battle wraps up.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396933"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/10/65a3c1fabb938784caf0272f1a18f5d3892d786d.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Caption: Comparison between 2001 Silent Hill 2 and the 2024 Silent Hill 2 remake</em></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Final thoughts　</h2>
<p class="">As the new Silent Hill 2 remake inches ever closer to release on October 8, we wanted to take the time to present a head-to-head comparison depicting one of the game’s defining moments. We hope this manages to convey our approach towards the whole game, which emphasizes the original’s strengths and seeks to expand upon them while staying true to the game’s spirit.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/10/02/undisputed-launches-oct-11-how-body-scans-deliver-boxing-authenticity/',
                'Undisputed launches Oct 11 – how body scans deliver boxing authenticity',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/10/68826a79817c9f75afb9ab9a063d4b1e1145023a.jpeg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class=""><a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/undisputed/">Undisputed</a> launches October 11 on PS5, and has been in development for nearly five years, starting as the humble Esports Boxing Club and then evolving into the first major boxing game in over a decade. With over 70 of the most prestigious prizefighters on the roster, including Canelo Álvarez, Tyson Fury, Oleksandr Usyk, Roy Jones Jr. and Joe Frazier, it was our priority to make sure that they not only looked amazing, but that they moved in their own, unique, signature ways too.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">From scan to sculpt</h2>
<p class="">How do you get the longest reigning super middleweight world champion, Joe Calzaghe, to look as authentic and life-like as possible? It all starts with the scanning process. We work with a variety of scanning studios all over the world to create the most accurate reference images for us to work from. The Steel City Interactive art team then use this to sculpt the in-game models, recreating every muscle, vein, hair, and bead of sweat.</p>
<p class="">For our boxing legends, we also have a de-aging process. Players want to experience these fighters in their prime, so we try to recreate exactly what they looked like at that time.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396988"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/10/15d5fc3866dbdda24f46ab9b5f220c7463f0ac49.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
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<p class="">“One of the most challenging parts of bringing characters from the past to life is the de-aging process. Lots of things usually change with age: eye shape, lip volume, cheekbones, body fat, even ear size, but my aim is to get them back to their fighting shape, recreating the look of their greatest fights. First, I collect a lot of references from every possible angle to have an overview of what I want to achieve. Then, I check the model to understand what to keep and what to change according to the pictures and footage. I then work on the tone and symmetry, removing some fat, wrinkles, and imperfections from the body and face. After this, I sculpt the main muscles and tweak the facial features. Eventually I get to a point where the boxer is recognizable both from a distance and up close. When I’m happy with the result, I proceed to fix the textures as well.”</p>
<cite>– Francesco Primiceri, 3D character artist at Steel City Interactive</cite></blockquote>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Motion capture</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-396989"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://stream.mux.com/xJ5SzfnQy56FE5Ayf5zsxa4SSRalhGIbT018rC5bh5vA/capped-1080p.mp4?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJ4SjVTemZuUXk1NkZFNUF5ZjV6c3hhNFNTUmFsaEdJYlQwMThyQzViaDV2QSIsImF1ZCI6InYiLCJleHAiOjE3MzgwMjE4NDksImtpZCI6IjRMNXlPY2pyVjFOVXFWemNVdkpCbjF3VG00ZVRHRzlNaDAyMDFZazVqdTlOQSJ9.YIIx4S-L9NhyopsMaGr1IHEmfQTdiE-Ic2psQOZAsovdoZnOY2KBXp0lsDvjxr7Yw8-Fj3F7vm2X082ci1Xo4feRxL5AocoQYcTZt3ckZsHK1mDUbHhjXR2fxWM9tk0-mrjUiwITrWWxj9jTd1PFbp9sbtA6UwitPFxTEvUPTXbWoeuRLsNVRnipO3r2cGkQ1_gdIIbCcgTpLCrGAMLeglunB-ngbcH3MCxdchwlAQDXlCksrDcdYvmkcZCnHccoieaCs_akD_9lBPD39nVUyb8cwbGK7XZbyPmv18-jnvGEvu4PbpqU5w8PKtC4CtX7OuLoKl6IGISYe9IN5TEFMw" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">We also try to get as many fighters as possible into our motion capture suits, so we can record their unique footwork, punches, slips, dodges – and even taunts! When you play as Oleksandr Usyk, we want it to feel like you are Oleksandr Usyk, so our art and animation teams spend days processing the output from the motion capture and then applying that to our detailed character models.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54024246660_f9198a0380_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54024246660_f9198a0380_4k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">British and Commonwealth Super-Lightweight Champion, Dalton Smith, was one of the fighters we worked closely with to capture his boxing style. He also helped mimic some of the fighters who are no longer with us, studying their movements then performing them so we can immortalize them in Undisputed.</p>
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<p class="">“I am used to boxing in the ring or the gym, but throwing punches in a motion capture suit is a whole different ball game. I got suited up and spent a few days working with the team at Steel City Interactive to capture not only my own personal in-ring moves, but those of some of the old school boxers as well. You don’t realise how intense and detailed the process is until you’re throwing the same punches and performing the same blocks over and over again until it’s captured from every angle. Seeing the results in-game is incredible – my avatar really does look like me.”</p>
<cite>– Dalton Smith, British and Commonwealth Super-Lightweight Champion</cite></blockquote>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Styles (and stats) make fights</h2>
<p class="">There’s a saying in boxing that ‘styles make fights’ and we think it’s really important that those styles are backed up with real life statistics too. There’s no point in having the undefeated legend of boxing, Rocky Marciano, in the game if we don’t also give him the punching power and stamina he was known for.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54022902677_e42873a391_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54022902677_e42873a391_4k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">That’s why we work with CompuBox to define each fighter’s ratings, statistics and behaviours. When you’re playing as a boxer with a fantastic knockout ratio, like Deontay Wilder, his ability to land KO’s in the game is boosted. And this works the same for the AI version of them too; each fighter has their own skills and abilities – taken from their real-life fight records – that will change the outcome of the fight in a meaningful way. It’s your job to figure out how to counter that!</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Rule the ring</h2>
<p class="">Undisputed has the most expansive and authentic licensed fighter roster of any boxing game yet, and we’re excited for you to experience that.</p>
<p class="">You can pick up the Undisputed Deluxe WBC Edition on October 8 on PS5 and play three days early. Undisputed Standard Edition launches on October 11 on PS5.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/10/03/metro-awakening-adapts-classic-gameplay-mechanics-for-ps-vr2/',
                'Metro Awakening adapts classic gameplay mechanics for PS VR2',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/10/324e827fc1d8ab582c3baacf45f2998e1b8fc84b.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Hi everyone, it’s Samar Louwe here, game director at Vertigo Games. Just last week during <a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2024/09/24/everything-revealed-in-state-of-play-september-2024/">State of Play</a>, we were thrilled to finally announce that <a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/metro-awakening/">Metro Awakening</a> is coming to PS VR2 on November 7. Today, we’re excited to share another glimpse into the game with a new video showcasing extended gameplay on PS VR2.</p>
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<p class="">We’ve crafted a journey that intertwines gripping storytelling with deeply immersive gameplay. In Metro Awakening, you’ll confront the mysteries and dangers of a post-apocalyptic world, where survival and exploration are more critical than ever. As you navigate both familiar and new locations, each filled with supernatural threats, you’ll uncover the origin story of Khan, one of the Metro series’ most enigmatic characters. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Become what you fear…</strong></h2>
<p class="">At the heart of Metro Awakening lies the powerful story of Serdar—a doctor searching for his missing wife. Throughout his journey, Serdar undergoes a profound transformation that leads him to awaken as Khan, a mystic figure who plays a recurring role throughout the Metro series. Known for his deep connection to the supernatural, Khan appears at critical moments, offering guidance to Metro’s protagonist, Artyom, and all who dare to navigate the dangers of the tunnels.</p>
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<p class="">This standalone narrative was crafted by series creator Dmitry Glukhovsky and explores the events that shaped Khan into who he is, immersing players in the philosophical struggles defining his path for the first time. As a prequel to Metro 2033, it also serves as an excellent starting point for newcomers to the franchise, while offering longtime fans a story that complements the rich lore they have come to love.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Classic Metro mechanics</strong></h2>
<p class="">In Metro Awakening, we’ve translated the series’ iconic elements to VR. You’ll engage with classic mechanics, including the wristwatch, gas mask, flashlight, universal charger and lighter—each playing a key role in stealth and survival. </p>
<p class="">The watch not only shows whether you’re in the light or in the dark but also counts down the time until your gas mask filter needs replacing. The mask, in particular, requires constant attention; fogged lenses require you to physically wipe them during tense moments, while the watch’s timer beeps in a countdown, warning you before your filter clogs with radioactive dust, adding to the mounting pressure.</p>
<p class="">Charging your flashlight is also essential for survival. When darkness envelops you, you’ll need to wind it manually using the universal charger, increasing the stakes as every action pulls you deeper. The lighter is extremely important for burning through cobwebs.</p>
<p class="">These mechanics create a great immersive experience on PS VR2, making every interaction feel immediate and vital, and drawing you even more into the atmosphere of the Metro universe.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54025868226_c47d429293_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54025868226_c47d429293_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Elevating Metro Awakening with PS VR2</strong></h2>
<p class="">Immersion is the essence of both VR and the Metro series, and the PS VR2 elevates this experience.</p>
<p class="">As the story unfolds, you’ll dive into the mysterious, supernatural aspects of Metro. VR allows us to amplify these moments, enveloping players in eerie atmospheres and using spatial audio to draw you into the unknown.</p>
<p class="">Every shot fired is intentional. With adaptive triggers, you’ll add weight and precision to your actions. Combat isn’t just about pulling the trigger; it’s about survival. The subtle resistance of the triggers heightens the tension, making every shot count when resources are scarce.</p>
<p class="">Headset feedback introduces a new level of physicality to gameplay, immersing you in your environment. You’ll feel the impact of debris from explosions or when you’re hit by enemy attacks, amplifying your experience.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54026197724_37ebb2c664_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54026197724_37ebb2c664_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Metro Awakening thrives on contrasts—light and dark, hope and despair. The PS VR2’s 4K HDR display brings this to life, especially in haunting locations. Dynamic lighting enhances the atmosphere. Using your headlamp to navigate dark tunnels or strategically shining it to sneak past mutants adds a tactical layer to gameplay. While visibility is key, mastering the shadows can give you a strategic edge in your encounters.  </p>
<p class="">We designed every interaction in Metro Awakening to feel natural and grounded. From wiping your gas mask to managing your backpack, every action in VR is a manual endeavor. With no on-screen UI to rely on, you must adapt and survive as you would in real life.</p>
<p class="">We can’t wait for you to step into Metro Awakening on PS VR2 starting November 7—or pre-order the Deluxe Edition to begin your journey early on November 5.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54024971757_d122b0722b_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54024971757_d122b0722b_h.jpg"/></a>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/10/04/share-of-the-week-astro-bot-levels/',
                'Share of the Week: Astro Bot Levels',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/10/cf4fe6b5151776198c0bebc08ce709654e10ef6e.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Last week, we asked you to showcase the best Astro Bot levels using #PSshare #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights:</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54039836346_fe945c16b1_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54039836346_fe945c16b1_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/NightmarexDoll/status/1840335523421778309"><em>NightmarexDoll</em></a><em> </em><em>shares a spooky level with a mansion and a smiling moon in the background. </em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54039836351_b18185b4a5_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54039836351_b18185b4a5_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/pavesoint/status/1841323564651458767/photo/4"><em>pavesoint</em></a><em> </em><em>shares a level in the clouds featuring a mechanical sun.</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54040089883_9727d11383_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54040089883_9727d11383_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/SoundwaveXP/status/1841520317468180738/photo/1"><em>SoundwaveXP</em></a><em> </em><em>shares a level featuring a Japanese-style bathhouse and mountains. </em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54040089878_b44a922697_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54040089878_b44a922697_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/kanon06/status/1840846674241224959/photo/1"><em>kanon06</em></a><em> </em><em>shares a level in space with a giant meteor and space debris. </em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54040165704_6cc8c5f3de_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54040165704_6cc8c5f3de_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/Jeff_Bytes/status/1841077254769476028/photo/4"><em>Jeff_Bytes</em></a><em> </em><em>shares an aquatic level featuring a row of birds sitting on a wire. </em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54038971357_3e7b26db36_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54038971357_3e7b26db36_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://x.com/Boargs/status/1841331625109414053/photo/1"><em>Boargs</em></a><em> </em><em>shares a snow theme level with a snow slide and frosty vistas. </em></p>
<p class="">Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week?</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54039836336_53ebfe239f_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54039836336_53ebfe239f_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">THEME: Spooky Settings </p>
<p class="">SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on October 9, 2024</p>
<p class="">Next week, showcase where things go bump in the night with Spooky Settings. Highlight spooky settings for Share of the Week using #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured.</p>
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                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/10/07/metaphor-refantazio-hands-on-report/',
                'Metaphor ReFantazio: hands-on report',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/10/906a89f6f9745d2ce7ca2732e131e338a39383ee.jpeg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Anyone familiar with Atlus’s deep and involving role-playing games has been eager to see what the strange and magical Metaphor: ReFantazio has in store. And while it’s not directly connected to the popular Persona series, there are some intriguing touchstones across its aesthetics and mechanics to hook fans and newcomers alike. Let’s take a close look at some of these intriguing similarities and differences ahead of the October 11 release date.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-397063"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/10/2d068d28f4cd5458efbe165c7dee41e6c36853a1.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Combat is unleashed</h2>
<p class="">Fans of Persona’s fast-paced yet detailed turn-based combat will find themselves at home here, but Studio Zero has given it a little twist, too. You can engage in real-time combat with low level enemies, taking them out with a handful of targeted strikes or even a single blow if your current level totally outclasses them.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-397064"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://stream.mux.com/XdGnCz7wzFtQitOCjtP01GI00ZQv5TRFGe7AS3HNBd13I/capped-1080p.mp4?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJYZEduQ3o3d3pGdFFpdE9DanRQMDFHSTAwWlF2NVRSRkdlN0FTM0hOQmQxM0kiLCJhdWQiOiJ2IiwiZXhwIjoxNzM4MDIxODUzLCJraWQiOiI0TDV5T2NqclYxTlVxVnpjVXZKQm4xd1RtNGVUR0c5TWgwMjAxWWs1anU5TkEifQ.fCfyCeYEmu4XdmgWCeO_3h8ICBD9CnG25mNxugvFgi6rT-Tve6biUgjRhQHUlwbe5LgWZalzzjPRl2fv-rQEG3bEV5G9x4f62gRiR3xHZi0nfJOX4P7Y3aUBdMuYNpLWdmn3J2cpQEoRTJQBj0kgEsOO2_6nfWg1CyWogs19PO_zUg8u0kBnqFROfwW_ew4cyvbn8YZhz4ImvkJIMtj9DgyIQ0eakZ2UBt3o_5quP-aNeQXcrjv1KRwkhBh6ZPsw2HK86gLsH6ZJAlEUdvZ9VYt9ne48NChdwoKCHyqdRVnoxXH74g6bmAXAQpJ6lCErymvakRssa7C2w-GvGA16-A" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">There’s a dedicated dodge button to avoid their attacks if they see you before you can act, which is also handy for foes which are too tough to take out in real-time. In which case, you can initiate a turn-based battle after you’ve softened them up with an action strike – especially handy if you can catch an enemy off-guard first, giving you a free hit during the turn-based Squad Battle.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-397065"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/10/1c2d565f7d6fa9fd0bc56f5a4f78367471aec7ee.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">Real-time combat can be used to any monster’s advantage, too. During one instance I thought some vicious beasts were blocked by some barrels, but they smashed right through them, initiated the Squad Battle, and got a free hit on my party in the process. Lesson learned – I used the protagonist’s Fae Sight a lot more often from that point to be more aware of nearby enemies and have Gallica assess their threat levels. But if things are going really badly, you can also press L3 to restart the battle.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Time management is key</h2>
<p class="">As the game’s main plot develops, one of your aims becomes balancing tasks through the day to gain democratic popularity while completing other objectives to become more powerful, creating bonds with other party members or hitting certain story milestones. As in Persona, each of these consume time as you creep towards specific events, and not meeting deadlines for critical ones results in a game over.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-397066"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/10/7a0a2975cc12a9ce1b6a30cfd4030f9c4b9bad27.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">So mapping out each day, knowing when to enter time-consuming dungeons and when to rest – or even kill time by doing more peaceful tasks – can make all the difference. Thankfully, all activities are clearly denoted with how much time they eat up, so you shouldn’t be caught off guard. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Exploring the United Kingdom of Euchronia</h2>
<p class="">Metaphor: ReFantazio wastes no time establishing that we’re not on our Earth… or in a particularly safe land. The game’s inciting incident comes from a savage act of regicide, and things only get wilder from there with its medieval fantasy setting exploring themes of bigotry and the value of imagination, especially when overcoming our own fears and anxieties.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-397067"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/10/77391b04fe8c7eecfc0d982498d6ae6d8a935b4f.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Humans are far from human</h2>
<p class="">In fact, the term ‘human’ in the game is synonymous with often giant, grotesque monsters feared by the varied fantasy races of the game. Even our blue-haired protagonist – who arguably looks the closest to a traditional Persona character – is a rarity in a world full of the horned Clemar Tribe, elven looking Roussainte Tribe, fairies, and many other species.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-397068"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/10/e5489110266fb10697adf5a7faa0bfdac5d26a8b.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The music is more operatic</h2>
<p class="">Persona is known for its<strong> </strong>eclectic range of tunes, from rock to acid jazz to electronic inspired beats. Given<strong> </strong>its setting, Metaphor: ReFantazio soundtrack leans towards the more orchestral, with tense strings, dramatic drums, and chants present in its wonderfully composed battle themes that are already subject to deservedly flattering memes. Fans of the parent series,<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shin_Megami_Tensei_III:_Nocturne"> Shin Megami Tensei</a>, might find their toes tapping in its sweeping tonal familiarity.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Less summoning or fusing, more transforming</h2>
<p class="">While Metaphor: ReFantazio’s powerful Archetype forms are similar toPersona’s summoning system, there are some notable differences. Archetypes are typically awakened when a party member confronts and overcomes a certain fear or anxiety, causing them to tap into a magical armored form capable of enhanced attacks and abilities.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-397069"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://stream.mux.com/rvIxlM1sVSY6g00Cx2bxqYQz33J2Ij9TUWKKDRqDFeRc/capped-1080p.mp4?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJydkl4bE0xc1ZTWTZnMDBDeDJieHFZUXozM0oySWo5VFVXS0tEUnFERmVSYyIsImF1ZCI6InYiLCJleHAiOjE3MzgwMjE4NTMsImtpZCI6IjRMNXlPY2pyVjFOVXFWemNVdkpCbjF3VG00ZVRHRzlNaDAyMDFZazVqdTlOQSJ9.FE4YIpcxg55QkZoqsV-96ptQJd88tpGxIaweYB-5QVOIFZkfFeMMHsKwH6JPMdV8RPd2E83nDQRldB8wFwZypaMxDzv8c6l2KIDmzMnYFwhnEYDexOSxUQnYCS6P6ddTHJ4EQ6Z9smwXlFcPX8FMiMyC83vQP0mKMw0leR0-CSzseGSYggX1r2XKa2rBkUYV5tBolqpJLpiH9xAD4mxpgYlWxSYflYik5Sc-MWJqyfUruyt0fIr0g7Oy5V6DTgXVeNe5Cgei2ZOBtwjcr-dYYKDvBoa7mgn39_M8_wwXhUage4sTmnCqaNO1nQAzfpmQZ-U20FYMkDXL2bCMg6VTPA" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">These transformed figures are part of a job system where your party members can switch between the 40+ differently skilled Archetypes, spread across 14 different lineages to suit your playstyle. For example, despite which characters you have in your party, you can put together a Saviour from the Healer lineage, a Ninja Thief and a Devil Summoner. Or a Magic Knight, Dragoon Gunner and Martial Artist Brawler. And with them create combos in battle via spectacular Synthesis Skills.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-397070"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/10/98e60956c3d0f886d7fce04240058933e5477cf9.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Exploring a safe haven</h2>
<p class="">It isn’t long in the game before you’re transported to the mysterious Akademeia, by the equally mysterious More. This magical library is a spirit home where you can learn about Archetypes via books and lectures, and unlock additional aspects of their abilities. Initially you’ll not have much choice in going to Akademeia, but as the game progresses, you’ll be able to choose when you visit via the protagonist’s novel or More’s ghostly figure.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-397071"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/10/4ce04e90a2a466221281478f767c0878ef1fc555.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">There’s much More to Akademeia than first appears</h2>
<p class="">While acting as an enemy-free hub to study and grow, Akademeia also gives space for Metaphor: ReFantazio to delve into the tale’s meta commentary, examining the power of imagination and the nature of storytelling. Without giving too much away, this is also tied to one of your very first acts in the game, where you as the player type in your own name. Oh, and there’s also a cute cat you can pet… which I often did. Priorities, right?   </p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-397072"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/10/b015f2be09643104e270438fd159ddb8dadbe8a4.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Persona’s not the only one with style</h2>
<p class="">Sure, you might have played medieval fantasy RPGs before, but have you played one as stylish as this? From its anime cutscenes to its fun battle chatter to its slick victory outros, Metaphor: ReFantazio rivals Persona for its sheer sense of flair. The UI also maintains a sense of familiarity without being a direct mimic, opting for a slightly more uniform aesthetic.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-397073"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://blog.playstation.com/uploads/2024/10/cdbe14923f7a7891c883982fe2d480789264fa44.mp4" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="">Similarly, the game knows when to use a bold mixture of colors and when to opt for a more naturalistic palette, delivering an eye-pleasing blend of what we’d expect for a classic fantasy genre without sacrificing the Atlus panache and polish.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Your protagonist has a voice</h2>
<p class="">Perhaps the most notable aspect of Metaphor: ReFantazio’s cast is that your protagonist is voice acted in the same way the rest of the characters are. Although you can name him whatever you wish, as the bulk of the in-game dialogue is still delivered via text with occasional vocalizations.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A union of tribes</h2>
<p class="">Tellingly, every party member you develop throughout the game represents each of the main tribes of the land. For example, the stoic knight Hulkenberg is a Roussainte, while the rodent looking Eugief tribe is represented by Heismay, who awakens the thief archetype. And the diminutive but faithful fairy Gallica might not be able to fight, but offers valuable advice and guidance on your journey.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Creating bonds with Followers</h2>
<p class="">Romantic Persona fans won’t necessarily find the same starry-eyed connections in Metaphor: ReFantazio, but building relationships is still important. At various points you have the opportunity to interact with other party members and NPCs, and spending specific time with them forms a bond. In turn, this can help awaken new Archetypes, with deeper rapports unlocking further abilities.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Real life connections help, too</h2>
<p class="">Staying online with the game gives you the option to explore the handy Travellers’ Voices page. A press of the Touch Pad shows you what other players have done in the section you’re currently in. So if you’re stuck in a dungeon, you can check out what party formations others have used and what levels they cleared that area with, as well as changing your formation to match another player’s for a better chance of success.</p>
<p class="">Travellers’ Voices also works in towns as well, handily letting you know where players have spent their time most during the day. A nice little feature if you’re looking for a bit of guidance as to how to while away some free time in Euchronia.</p>
<p class="">Rich, constantly surprising and stylishly elegant, Metaphor: ReFantazio is not only a delight for fans of Atlus’s games, but will charm newcomers with its magic, too. If you’ve not already found out for yourself via the PS5 demo, you’ll get the chance when the full game launches October 11 on PS4 and PS5.</p>
</div>',
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            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/10/07/onslaught-salvation-awaits-in-destiny-2-revenant-live-october-8/',
                'Onslaught: Salvation awaits in Destiny 2: Revenant, live October 8',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/10/87ff50303f093703a7c20def42764ecdd9414a79.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Wave after wave of enemy forces advance, seemingly without end. Attacks arrive from every angle at once. The lives of innocent Eliksni captives hang in the balance. In response, Guardians do what they do best: take up arms and run headlong into the fray.</p>
<p class="">One of the major features introduced in <a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/destiny-2/?smcid=ma">Destiny 2</a>’s latest Episode, Revenant, is Onslaught: Salvation. A defensive wave-based activity that pits three-Guardian fireteams against increasingly intense waves of enemies, Onslaught also allows Guardians to purchase powerful defensive units to use against the invading hordes. In its original form (introduced in Destiny 2: Into the Light), Onslaught was a packed and intense mode, full of ratcheting tension and ‘Did you see that?’ moments. Now, with Onslaught: Salvation, the development team is raising the bar.</p>
<p class="">“There were a lot of great and constructive feedback from the community with the original Onslaught,” said Destiny 2 designer Clayton Kisko. “The one we heard most often was that they wanted Bungie to invest in the mode with new maps, new enemies, and new defenses, and that is exactly what we are doing with Onslaught: Salvation.”</p>
<p class="">From a thematic perspective, Onslaught: Salvation’s three new maps – Widow’s Court, Eventide Ruins, and Kell’s Grave – are leaning into the gothic horror that is fitting with Revenant’s chilling visual theme. If the original Onslaught was about protecting the Last City from the forces of the Witness, this time around the theme leans into slaying monsters, fighting evil, and saving the innocent.</p>
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<p class="">By their nature, Onslaught maps need to pack a lot of punch into some relatively tight spaces to provide maximum tension and action. The three new maps each have their own unique layouts, while also building on lessons learned from earlier Onslaught maps.</p>
<p class="">“This time around we were able to identify the design pain points early and got ahead of the enemy teleporting issues,” said Kisko. “We ensured that there were at least three wide lanes for each Advanced Defense Unit (ADU) location. For Eventide Ruins, the larger map, we took our learnings from Mothyards (from the original Onslaught) and set out to make sure enemy spawn locations were closer to the ADU to ensure a closer time-to-complete to the other two maps.” </p>
<p class="">Alongside the new maps, Guardians will be pleased to know that they’ll have new defensive countermeasures available this time around. The new Air Strikes will rain down retribution on humanity’s enemies and, for those who want to get a bit more hands on, there’s the Rideable Turret.</p>
<p class="">“The Rideable Turret is good at mowing down clumps of enemies or damaging a single heavy unit like those deadly Demolitionists who like to attack the ADU,” said Kisko. “It can overheat, though, so players will need to balance when they fire and for how long. The defensive upgrades increase the health of the turret and the damage. The final upgrade will add scorching rounds to the bullets. What is so cool about that is the sandbox team was able to design it so the turret will combo with any of the rider’s Solar fragments or buildcrafting around scorching rounds.”</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54040673644_a4c333c92a_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54040673644_a4c333c92a_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">While defending the ADU is one of the key mission components in an Onslaught: Salvation game, it’s certainly not the only thing that will keep Guardians moving. Augmentation waves and bonus objectives will take players out of their comfort zones (and away from the safety blanket of relying on defensive countermeasures). This time, players will be infiltrating the Revenant Nest to free captured Eliksni. For one bonus objective, new shielded enemy units will appear, requiring Guardians to use special ether-light cannons to stop them.</p>
<p class="">Jonathan To, narrative lead for Destiny 2, said the team has worked hard to include narrative hooks in Onslaught: Salvation to keep things moving from a story and character standpoint.</p>
<p class="">“The main writers for Onslaught: Salvation created some excellent character-building and exchanges between Spider, Crow, Eido, Eramis, and others. Crow is figuring out a new role for himself in the City, Eido is the player’s partner this Episode in a role we can’t wait to share more about, and who knows what Eramis will be up to when she returns, having both helped and fought against us in the past. Fans of the Eliksni and the saga of the Fallen up to this point in Destiny will love what the team has done here.”</p>
<p class="">Onslaught: Salvation is playable with the release of Destiny 2: Revenant, starting October 8.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/10/08/like-a-dragon-pirate-yakuza-in-hawaii-interview/',
                'Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii Interview',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/10/ab4d3f627048917d8f4116ac5d6385ff1bede9fd.jpeg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Scheduled for release on February 28, 2025, <a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/like-a-dragon-pirate-yakuza-in-hawaii/">Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii</a> is a sequel to action adventure <a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/like-a-dragon-infinite-wealth/">Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth</a>. This new title features the series’ fan-favorite, Goro Majima, as the sole protagonist. I recently had a conversation with Mr. Masayoshi Yokoyama, RGG Studio Director and the Like a Dragon Series Executive Producer, along with Mr. Hiroyuki Sakamoto, the Like a Dragon Series, RGG Studio Chief Producer, about the game’s highlights and the behind-the-scenes stories of its development.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54042176793_467c121876_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54042176793_467c121876_o.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54042248979_1e48d15219_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54042248979_1e48d15219_o.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class=""><strong>PlayStation Blog: As a fan of the series, I’m most curious about why you chose Majima and pirates. How did this title come about in the first place?</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Yokoyama</strong>: Around June or July 2023, long before the release of Infinite Wealth, the dev team was already mulling over the idea of an Infinite Wealth spin-off. Even if we were to make Like a Dragon 9, we knew that wouldn’t be enough to capture and tell the story. During the end of the Infinite Wealth development, we began percolating the idea of a spin-off that stars characters who are not Ichiban Kasuga. It was almost as if we were creating a blown-up sub-story for Infinite Wealth. For quite some time, I wanted to make a game called Like a Dragon: Tuna, where Kazuma Kiryu, as a tuna fisherman, sets off to sea to fight against fishing boats. Long story short, it never came to fruition, but keywords like “ship,” “sea,” and “fighting,” which had since then been engraved in my head, evolved into the concept of pirates.</p>
<p class=""><strong>PSB: The series is known for starring different characters as the protagonists. For instance, Kazuma Kiryu takes the lead in Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name while Majima steps into the spotlight in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. I must say one of the perks of spin-offs is the freedom of starring new characters who are not just Ichiban Kasuga.</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Yokoyama</strong>: I agree. As the protagonist changes in spin-offs, you can follow the same story from a different perspective. Also, spin-offs are perfect in size for adults. The Like a Dragon series is like an all-you-can-eat restaurant where you can choose from meat, seafood, and anything else you want and eat however much you like. But as you mature, you start to appreciate well-balanced, good-proportion meals. Spin-offs are like that.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54041923981_04181a19e0_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54041923981_04181a19e0_o.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>PSB: Can you describe who Majima is?</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Yokoyama</strong>: He masks his feelings and hides his true self. His past is mentioned throughout the series, yet the true Majima remains a puzzle. He feels the need to live up to the image that others have of him and adeptly go along with them. However, in this entry, he suffers from amnesia, exposing his true self as the story unfolds.</p>
<p class=""><strong>PSB: Does that mean we will finally find out who the true Majima is?</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Yokoyama</strong>: You’ll understand who he is through his interactions with a boy called Noah. It turns out he’s just a tough dude who likes to fantasize a lot [laughs]. In Gaiden, while remembering his past, Majima looks at himself objectively and realizes who he really is. This is a novel story development.</p>
<p class="">However, Majima is not the most conventional choice for a protagonist. His unpredictability, while not the norm, is what sets him apart and makes him intriguing. When a character like Majima becomes the protagonist, it creates a discrepancy between actions and emotions; when you get frustrated in a scene, but Majima does not even look bothered, you may feel confused. </p>
<p class="">To avoid that, we would need a neutral character who could act the way players anticipate from a protagonist. But the downside is that we’d end up with a boring protagonist. We gave Kiryu and Kasuga additional personalities to build them into protagonists, but if we did that to Majima, he’d turn out to be a boring guy. To make him a protagonist, we only had two options: amnesia or travel back in time. Without amnesia, Majima wouldn’t have worked as a protagonist.                  </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54042376345_4832feb822_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54042376345_4832feb822_o.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54041059252_2577065acc_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54041059252_2577065acc_o.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class=""><strong>PSB: Next, I’d like to ask you about the battles. This time, Majima switches between two battle styles: Mad Dog and Sea Dog. Could you tell us about them?</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Sakamoto</strong>: In Gaiden, Kiryu also uses two different battle styles. We thought two was the right amount in order to keep battles from being too complicated. Since Majima uses nimble moves, we wanted to simplify his battle moves. Players can execute exhilarating moves by merely pressing the buttons. The Mad Dog Style is based on Majima’s battle style that executes combos, jumps, and other responsive actions.</p>
<p class=""><strong>PSB:I played the demo version at the Tokyo Game Show 2024 and experienced some dynamic fights. What was the intention behind introducing jumping?</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Yokoyama</strong>: Introducing jumping changes the gameplay drastically. In fighting games, for example, players jump even when there’s no need to. Also, you’re defenseless while jumping, so if you get hit, you’ll be blown away. For that reason, in action games, you’re often invincible while jumping, but that can cause problems. Simply introducing jumping changes the game design, so we’ve avoided it until now.</p>
<p class="">However, the team decided to incorporate jumping into the game because the character Majima looks good while jumping. This is the first time players can control the character’s ability to jump, rather than it just being a part of heated battles. It’s not a regular jump action but a form of jump incorporated into a combo.</p>
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<p class=""><strong>Yokoyama</strong>: Incorporating two battle styles in a game is quite complicated. If one style becomes way more entertaining, players will stop using the other one. It’s easy to label the battle styles under different characteristics, but it’s difficult to make them both equally enjoyable. The Sea Dog style turned out to be more interesting in this case and everyone ended up choosing this style. To top it off, the Sea Dog style has some fun costumes.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Sakamoto</strong>: In the early stages of development, the Mad Dog style felt a bit plain, and no one was using it. So, we brainstormed ways to make this style more appealing, and we’re now in the fine-tuning stage to achieve the perfect balance between the two fighting styles.<br/><br/><a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/like-a-dragon-pirate-yakuza-in-hawaii/"><em>Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii</em></a><em> launches Feb 28 2025 on PS5.</em></p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/10/08/beat-saber-britney-spears-music-pack-launches-today-features-11-songs/',
                'Beat Saber: Britney Spears Music Pack launches today, features 11 songs',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2054/10/152c9c9528ba063d55bdd0d7951bd4158f1da85f.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Explore the new Britney Spears Music Pack, filled with Britney’s best hits everyone knows by heart, when it releases today on PS VR2 and PS VR. You bet you don’t want to miss it.</p>
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<p class="">Britney Spears is one of the most influential musicians, having sold over 150 million records worldwide. Now, you can experience her music in a whole new way in this energizing pop music pack. Slash and dance through some of her epic bangers and sing along with us.</p>
<p class="">Full track list:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>“…Baby One More Time”</li>
<li>“Circus”</li>
<li> “Gimme More”</li>
<li> “I’m A Slave 4 U”</li>
<li> “Me Against the Music” (feat. Madonna)</li>
<li> “Oops!…I Did It Again”</li>
<li> “Overprotected”</li>
<li> “Scream and Shout” (will.i.am feat. Britney Spears)</li>
<li> “Till the World Ends”</li>
<li> “Toxic”</li>
<li> “Womanizer”</li>
</ul>
<p class="">Pssst… everyone knows that Britney’s music videos are so iconic thanks to her timeless choreography. Our beatmapping team turned those unique moves into the levels you will have so much fun with. Check the tracks ‘Oops!…I Did It Again’, ‘…Baby One More Time’, and ‘Circus’ for an ultimate Beat Saber party. Which one will you play first?</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54025229877_a9e6a53ef6_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54025229877_a9e6a53ef6_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">The Britney Spears Music Pack comes with a beautiful new environment with unique light shows for each level. All levels feature Arc &amp; Chain Notes and you can play them in multiplayer. Who will you challenge in this musical dance-off?</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54026450544_043ab4c292_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54026450544_043ab4c292_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Beat Saber players can get the full music pack for $13.99 or purchase individual songs for $1.99, and those who don’t have Beat Saber yet can get a discounted Beat Saber + Britney Spears Music Pack bundle for $39.99.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/10/08/playstation-store-september-2024s-top-downloads/',
                'PlayStation Store: September 2024’s top downloads',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2024/10/466468d180b066c3b20f9ff0456588a274bec5bb.jpeg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">It’s time to see which PS5, PS4, PS VR2, PS VR, and free-to-play games topped the download charts last month. </p>
<p class="">New releases stormed the charts with <a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/nba-2k/">NBA 2K25</a>, <a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/astro-bot/">Astro Bot</a>, and <a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/warhammer-40000-space-marine-2/">Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2</a> entering the top five of September’s PS5 list in the US and EU. <a href="https://store.playstation.com/en-us/product/EP2907-PPSA23650_00-0333380899762521">Into the Radius</a> claimed the top spot on September’s PS VR2 list in the US and EU.</p>
<p class="">Check out the full listings below. What titles are you playing this month?</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PS5 Games</strong></h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-ps-product-spec"><table><thead><tr><th><strong>US/Canada</strong></th><th><strong>EU</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>NBA 2K25</strong></td><td><strong>EA SPORTS FC 25</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2</strong></td><td><strong>ASTRO BOT</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>EA SPORTS FC 25</strong></td><td><strong>Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>ASTRO BOT</strong></td><td><strong>NBA 2K25</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Black Myth: Wukong</strong></td><td><strong>Black Myth: Wukong</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>EA SPORTS Madden NFL 25</strong></td><td><strong>Grand Theft Auto V</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Grand Theft Auto V</strong></td><td><strong>Hogwarts Legacy</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Palworld</strong></td><td><strong>Palworld</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>EA SPORTS College Football 25</strong></td><td><strong>The Crew Motorfest</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Hogwarts Legacy</strong></td><td><strong>Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Star Wars Outlaws</strong></td><td><strong>Star Wars Outlaws</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III</strong></td><td><strong>The Casting of Frank Stone</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege</strong></td><td><strong>It Takes Two</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>The Casting of Frank Stone</strong></td><td><strong>Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>The Crew Motorfest</strong></td><td><strong>Sea of Thieves</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Vampire Survivors</strong></td><td><strong>Vampire Survivors</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Sea of Thieves</strong></td><td><strong>UFC 5</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>HELLDIVERS 2</strong></td><td><strong>ELDEN RING</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>UFC 5</strong></td><td><strong>Among Us</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>LOLLIPOP CHAINSAW RePOP</strong></td><td><strong>No Man’s Sky</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
<p class=""><em>*Naming of products may differ between regions</em><br/><em>*Upgrades not included</em></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PS4 Games</strong></h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-ps-product-spec"><table><thead><tr><th><strong>US/Canada</strong></th><th><strong>EU</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Minecraft</strong></td><td><strong>EA SPORTS FC 25</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>The Crew 2</strong></td><td><strong>The Crew 2</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>MARVEL vs. CAPCOM Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics</strong></td><td><strong>Minecraft</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Red Dead Redemption 2</strong></td><td><strong>A Way Out</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>EA SPORTS FC 25</strong></td><td><strong>Red Dead Redemption 2</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Grand Theft Auto V</strong></td><td><strong>Grand Theft Auto V</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Kingdom Come: Deliverance</strong></td><td><strong>Hogwarts Legacy</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>NBA 2K25</strong></td><td><strong>Kingdom Come: Deliverance</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>A Way Out</strong></td><td><strong>Far Cry 5</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Mafia Trilogy</strong></td><td><strong>Unravel Two</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Batman: Arkham Knight</strong></td><td><strong>Mafia Trilogy</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Watch Dogs 2</strong></td><td><strong>The Crew Motorfest</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Far Cry 5</strong></td><td><strong>Middle-earth: Shadow of War</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Hogwarts Legacy</strong></td><td><strong>Batman: Arkham Knight</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Call of Duty: Black Ops III</strong></td><td><strong>Gang Beasts</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Gang Beasts</strong></td><td><strong>Need for Speed Payback</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>theHunter: Call of the Wild</strong></td><td><strong>The Forest</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III</strong></td><td><strong>Watch Dogs 2</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>EA SPORTS Madden NFL 25</strong></td><td><strong>God of War</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Injustice 2</strong></td><td><strong>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Campaign Remastered</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
<p class=""><em>*Naming of products may differ between regions</em></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PS VR2 Games*</strong></h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-ps-product-spec"><table><thead><tr><th><strong>US/Canada</strong></th><th><strong>EU</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Into the Radius</strong></td><td><strong>Into the Radius</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Beat Saber</strong></td><td><strong>Beat Saber</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Pavlov</strong></td><td><strong>Survivorman VR The Descent</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Arizona Sunshine 2</strong></td><td><strong>Pavlov</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Among Us VR</strong></td><td><strong>Arizona Sunshine 2</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>MADiSON VR</strong></td><td><strong>Among Us VR</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Gun Club VR</strong></td><td><strong>Creed: Rise to Glory – Championship Edition</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Creed: Rise to Glory – Championship Edition</strong></td><td><strong>MADiSON VR</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Survivorman VR The Descent</strong></td><td><strong>Gun Club VR</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Waltz of the Wizard</strong></td><td><strong>Prison Boss VR</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
<p class=""><em> *PS Store purchases only. Game upgrades or games bundled with hardware not included</em></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PSVR Games</strong></h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-ps-product-spec"><table><thead><tr><th><strong>US/Canada</strong></th><th><strong>EU</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>ASTRO BOT Rescue Mission</strong></td><td><strong>ASTRO BOT Rescue Mission</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim VR</strong></td><td><strong>Sniper Elite VR</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>The Walking Dead Onslaught</strong></td><td><strong>Batman: Arkham VR</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Job Simulator</strong></td><td><strong>The Walking Dead Onslaught</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Sniper Elite VR</strong></td><td><strong>Job Simulator</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Batman: Arkham VR</strong></td><td><strong>Prison Boss VR</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Beat Saber</strong></td><td><strong>Lethal VR</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>SUPERHOT VR</strong></td><td><strong>Beat Saber</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Creed Rise to Glory</strong></td><td><strong>The Guy VR</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Arizona Sunshine</strong></td><td><strong>Kill It With Fire VR</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Free to Play (PS5 + PS4)</strong></h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-ps-product-spec"><table><thead><tr><th><strong>US/Canada</strong></th><th><strong>EU</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Fortnite</strong></td><td><strong>Fortnite</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Roblox</strong></td><td><strong>Roblox</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>UNDEFEATED</strong></td><td><strong>VALORANT</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>VALORANT</strong></td><td><strong>Asphalt Legends Unite</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Call of Duty: Warzone</strong></td><td><strong>eFootball</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Asphalt Legends Unite</strong></td><td><strong>Rocket League</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Rocket League</strong></td><td><strong>Call of Duty: Warzone</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Fall Guys</strong></td><td><strong>Stumble Guys</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Apex Legends</strong></td><td><strong>Fall Guys</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>The First Descendant</strong></td><td><strong>UNDEFEATED</strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/10/10/star-wars-episode-i-jedi-power-battles-launches-jan-23-on-ps5-ps4/',
                'Star Wars Episode I: Jedi Power Battles launches Jan 23 on PS5 & PS4',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2084/10/58623b7a28d364e2dc2c8350ddcb49b1a7cbf695.png?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Prepare yourselves, Jedi! The Force is calling you back to exhilarating lightsaber action! We’re excited to announce that Star Wars Episode I: Jedi Power Battles is coming to PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, offering nostalgic thrills for returning Jedi and a gripping experience for new padawans.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A long-awaited battle is back in full force</h2>
<p class="">Originally released in 2000, get ready to battle your way through iconic locations from Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. Whether you’re fighting to take back the Theed Palace from the Trade Federation or facing off against hordes of battle droids, destroyer droids, and deadly assassins, you’ll need all the skill and precision of a Jedi to succeed.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54033777166_27030d6087_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54033777166_27030d6087_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">In Jedi Power Battles, the power of the Force is in your hands. Grasp your lightsaber and cut through enemies in fast-paced, side-scrolling arcade action. The game allows you to play as beloved characters from the prequel trilogy, including Mace Windu, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Padme, Panaka, Plo Koon, Adi Gallia, and Qui-Gon Jinn.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Celebrating 25 years with all new features</h2>
<p class="">The 2025 release includes new and improved features that enhance the gameplay experience:</p>
<p class=""><strong>Lightsaber Toggle: </strong>For returning players who remember playing each Jedi with a distinctive color to their lightsaber, you may also remember those sabers not matching their looks in the films.</p>
<p class="">For example, the original game showcased Mace Windu with a blue Lightsaber.</p>
<p class="">For this release, we added a toggle that allows you to swap between his iconic purple saber or the classic blue saber. This also applies to Ki-Adi Mundi, Plo Koon, &amp; Adi Gallia’s classic saber colors.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54034231055_31126ca50f_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54034231055_31126ca50f_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>All secret characters and levels unlocked at the beginning: </strong>Experience the full game right from the start, with all the original secret characters and levels unlocked, allowing you to dive straight into the battle without delay. Beyond the original lineup, we’ve introduced 13 newly unlocked playable characters! You’ll find the Rifle Droid, Staff Tusken Raider, Ishi Tib, and Weequay, ready to jump into the action, and more character announcements are coming before launch day. Who else is joining the roster? We’ll all find out soon enough.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54033777121_23516cff5a_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54033777121_23516cff5a_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Gameplay improvements and expanded game modes:</strong> We’ve made enhancements to the character models, environments, and game modes based on the expanded post-PlayStation release, while also preserving elements of the original PlayStation UI. Enjoy smoother jumps, better balance, and new main menu art that transforms your battle from all of the original versions of the game. Additionally, we’ve included in-game UI toggle options for greater customization, and we’ve brought back Vs Mode and Training Mode from the expanded post-PlayStation release, adding depth and variety to your gameplay.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54034109219_dfbe6ef457_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54034109219_dfbe6ef457_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Classic couch co-op:</strong> The entire 10-level campaign, along with additional bonus mini-games, can be played with a friend in local co-op mode. The joy of teaming up with a buddy to take down waves of enemies is a core part of the Jedi Power Battles experience, and it’s back in full force.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Cheat codes and unlockables:</strong> Classic cheats like Big Head Mode, Big Foot Mode, and Lightsaber cheats are ready to be claimed! Additionally, unlock character progressions (combos, stats) by achieving high scores to keep the gameplay fresh and rewarding. Lastly, brand-new for the first time, the Loader Droid Boss is playable via cheat code!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54034109249_c426a6d6df_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54034109249_c426a6d6df_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ready to join the battle?</h2>
<p class="">Whether you’re a returning player or new to the battle, get ready for an adventure in the Star Wars galaxy. We’ve brought this classic back out of our deep love for Star Wars, and we hope you find joy in every lightsaber swing and every battle won.</p>
<p class="">May the Force be with you—always. Get ready to join the battle on January 23, 2025!</p>
<p class="">Prepare by pre-ordering Star Wars Episode I: Jedi Power Battles on PS5 &amp; PS4 today. </p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/10/10/neva-nomada-studio-shares-a-deep-dive-into-the-design-and-dualsense-features-of-its-gorgeous-ps5-platformer/',
                'Neva: Nomada Studio shares a deep dive into the design and DualSense features of its gorgeous PS5 platformer',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2084/10/2272538620648746700c57694fba80d235cb3372.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Neva is the next game from Nomada, the studio behind Gris. In it, the<strong><em> </em></strong>hero Alba forms a bond with a teenage wolf. Over time<strong><em>,</em></strong> the wolf will grow bigger and stronger, and the duo’s relationship will evolve.</p>
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<img alt="Neva: Nomada Studio shares a deep dive into the design and DualSense features of its gorgeous PS5 platformer" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/mTwJe_m4Vt4/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<p class="">You’ll be able to play Neva on PlayStation 5 soon, and we have implemented a number of features designed especially for the console.</p>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>The game’s original concept was about two human characters then morphed to an animal – including a bear – before settling on the wolf cub that the team felt will provide a more interesting relationship and striking visual.</em></p>
<p class="">Neva will make full use of the unique features of the PS5, including utilizing the DualSense controller to draw you deeper into the game’s hauntingly beautiful world. We want you to be as immersed as possible in Neva’s story as Alba and her wolf, Neva, forge their bond and work together to defeat the strange creatures confronting them.</p>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>There was a lot of gameplay testing to understand what sort of attacks would be interesting without getting in the players’ way. Neva doesn’t always auto-attack, as she grows and becomes more capable Abla will be able to direct her attacks using the thumbstick and adding a more strategic approach to combat and even puzzles.</em></p>
<p class="">In combat, Alba can command her wolf companion Neva, to attack enemies that she can’t handle on her own. When the wolf lunges at a foe and unleashes a fury of teeth and claws, you’ll feel the full kinetic force of the attack through the DualSense’s haptic triggers.</p>
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<p class="">Alba is a woman of few words, but whenever she calls for her furry friend, you’ll hear her shout out Neva’s name. On PS5, her voice will echo through the DualSense controller’s built-in speaker. When Neva is a young cub, the mischievous wolf will be easily distracted, and you’ll have to call out his name to make him stick by your side.</p>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Early in the story when Neva is just a cub there will be tender, sweeter moments where she is a bit nervous about jumping over chasms or by the world around her so Alba will need to call to her, encourage her, or give her a comforting pet to reassure Neva of her capabilities.</em></p>
<p class="">Neva is, as you can see from the screenshots, a vibrantly colorful game, and each lovingly hand-crafted level has its own distinctive palette. As you progress through Alba’s journey on PS5 , the light bar on the DualSense controller will change to reflect the current stage’s colors. So if Alba and Neva suddenly plunge into a part of the world lit with an atmospheric crimson red glow, your DualSense will shift hue to match it.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-video wp-video-398409"><video autoplay="" controls="" data-src="https://stream.mux.com/7gvkAkipn00dMZG01YXK00Qk2yFNiFm00I77oBeKS02XW89A/capped-1080p.mp4?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiI3Z3ZrQWtpcG4wMGRNWkcwMVlYSzAwUWsyeUZOaUZtMDBJNzdvQmVLUzAyWFc4OUEiLCJhdWQiOiJ2IiwiZXhwIjoxNzM4MDIxODYzLCJraWQiOiI0TDV5T2NqclYxTlVxVnpjVXZKQm4xd1RtNGVUR0c5TWgwMjAxWWs1anU5TkEifQ.QoC8aFe_LIeiTGWjMm4RizrBNAhJwCmABHJI3RG16J0G2cion6EqpLtzwa91sqlWItUoEK1KhANLqqc17cPgLBprsuC921GTqe2iLyeHdQ8NDoCl2xMXdGmnc0dkX0y8XrrHRtgs22E_kp6-dzBScV9BUb91qTVn51a6kxGTtTwKuj4M55B68O-dMLs63Pl2_a5EPgangR2QNx_edsaQSqYLi8F5whWbHRNZho71PJ8wG5yfpmwRSjKeFIbhrvkbyBbN16n9mFcbgn_sSH_wfUHBosv0b1wRN_g5W_6M-HBl1qhu0V5YGEDUH3qler41XadGNlb4Rz0CjabrzGEk5A" loop="" muted="" playsinline="" preload="metadata" style="aspect-ratio: 1280 / 720;"></video></figure>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>This is a world being overrun with an unnamed evil, often taking form of ‘infected’ fauna that stand in the way of Neva and Alba. Almost everything is organic to the world so it was important to the team that this evil was present in once beautiful places and creatures and it’s the mission of Neva and Alba to cleanse the world of this evil and return the beauty that lies within these corrupt animals.</em></p>
<p class="">Neva will also take advantage of the power of the PS5’s hardware to run at 4K and 120fps out of the box, making its lush artwork really sing on your TV. Neva features a minimal UI, delicate art, high-quality traditional animation, and an elegant musical score, all of which will come beautifully to life on PS5. We can’t wait for all you PlayStation players to lose yourselves in our story and world and enjoy Alba and Neva’s adventures together.</p>
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                'https://blog.playstation.com/2024/10/11/tomb-raider-iv-vi-remastered-launches-feb-14-2025/',
                'Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered launches Feb 14, 2025',
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                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">25 years ago, we were shocked with the image of Lara Croft hanging from a cliff inside an Egyptian tomb, as the credits rolled on Tomb Raider IV: The Last Revelation. It’s time for Tomb Raider players to re-experience the next remastered chapters of Lara Croft’s darkest adventures.</p>
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<img alt="Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered launches Feb 14, 2025" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/DOdgb6R_zYo/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<p class="">Continuing the legacy of Lara Croft’s iconic adventures and following the success of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered, Aspyr and Crystal Dynamics are thrilled to bring Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered to PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 on February 14, 2025!</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Her Legacy lives on: announcing Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered</strong></h2>
<p class="">Tomb Raider began with Core Design’s vision for Lara Croft’s adventures, culminating in the first six iconic games, taking fans on globe-trotting adventures with friends, foes, supernatural beings, and so much more…<br/><br/>Aspyr &amp; Eidos partnered to bring all 6 of the Core Tomb Raider games to Mac computers back in the ‘90s, and we’re proud to partner again with Crystal Dynamics / Eidos to complete the hexalogy on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Thank you to the entire Tomb Raider community</strong></h2>
<p class="">Aspyr &amp; Crystal Dynamics thank the amazing Tomb Raider community for all of the love and support you have poured into this franchise. Your dedication has inspired us to bring these classic Core Design adventures back in the best possible way. We’re grateful to share this remastered collection with you, and we can’t wait to see how you’ll relive—or discover for the first time—Lara’s darkest adventures.<br/><br/>Thank you for being part of her legacy!</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Lara Croft’s darkest adventures return</strong></h2>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation</strong></h3>
<p class="">Lara travels to Egypt in pursuit of the Amulet of Horus…</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54037151611_1754af01bd_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54037151611_1754af01bd_o.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">By taking the amulet, she unleashes an ancient God, fulfilling the ancient prophecy of his return to plunge mankind into darkness!<br/><br/>For dedicated fans, the level design brings bigger challenges, more intricate puzzles, and for the first time, the ability to rope-swing.<br/><br/>Will Lara escape the Great Pyramid of Giza alive?</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Tomb Raider: Chronicles</strong></h3>
<p class="">Presumed dead, Lara’s friends reminisce about her past adventures, each revealing untold secrets.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54037605635_0d34ae15ff_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54037605635_0d34ae15ff_o.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Chronicles centers around four separate stories told through flashbacks. <br/><br/>New gameplay mechanics like stealth and tightrope balancing are sure to keep newcomers and seasoned players on their toes!<br/><br/>Will Lara’s body be found?</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness</strong></h3>
<p class="">Accused of the murder of her one-time mentor, Werner Von Croy, Lara becomes a fugitive on the run.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54037605640_73b9656827_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54037605640_73b9656827_o.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">A series of grisly murders brings Lara into conflict with a sinister Alchemist from the past, and a secret alliance of powerful individuals shrouded in mystery. <br/><br/>Experience the final chapter of the Core hexalogy!</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Key features expanded</strong></h2>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Classic &amp; Remastered Visuals: </strong>Experience Lara Croft’s adventures as you remember them, or toggle to modern, remastered graphics that bring new life to the environments, characters, and artifacts. </li>
</ul>
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<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Global adventures: </strong>Journey with Lara across the globe, from the ancient tombs of Egypt in The Last Revelation to the shadowy streets of Paris in The Angel of Darkness.<br/></li>
<li><strong>Uncover dark secrets: </strong>Dive into the darkest chapters of Lara’s life as she uncovers long-buried secrets and confronts sinister forces. This remastered collection ensures that the story of Lara’s disappearance and subsequent return is more mysterious than ever.<br/></li>
<li><strong>Classic and Modern controls: </strong>Players can choose between the original tank-style controls, offering the authentic Tomb Raider experience, or opt for modern controls inspired by later entries in the series, providing smoother movement and camera control. </li>
</ul>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54037605690_5c0718a607_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54037605690_5c0718a607_o.jpg"/></a>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Boss Health Bars: </strong>This feature provides valuable feedback during tough encounters, helping players strategize more effectively without detracting from the game’s original challenge.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54036291522_2d53c86e28_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54036291522_2d53c86e28_o.jpg"/></a>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>150+ Trophies: </strong>We’ve packed this remaster with over 150 trophies, including nods to iconic moments from the series. These trophies provide both seasoned veterans and new players with plenty of content to explore and achieve.<br/></li>
<li><strong>Photo Mode: </strong>A fan-favorite feature is back! This collection will contain all photo mode poses from Tomb Raider I-III Remastered as well as new ones!  Share your favorite moments and the beauty of the remastered environments with the community.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54037605650_9036f4d8e8_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54037605650_9036f4d8e8_o.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Pre-order now and rediscover Lara’s darkest adventures</strong></h2>
<p class="">We can’t wait for you to experience Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered.<br/><br/>Stay tuned for more updates and join us on February 14, 2025, to celebrate the legacy of Lara Croft.</p>
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