            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/06/get-to-know-the-quen-of-horizon-forbidden-west-burning-shores/',
                'Get to know the Quen of Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/edb8e758ed695d412ebd3fd3dbfb9e37e67f1aaa.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores takes Aloy to the ruins of Los Angeles. The past millennia has seen the metropolis wracked by tectonic and volcanic activity. The result: a dangerous archipelago populated by deadly machines. Among these islands, a large settlement of Quen fight to survive. </p>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Spoiler Alert: Please note this article may contain some spoilers for Horizon Forbidden West and its storyline.</em></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A look at The Quen</h2>
<p class="">Aloy first encountered the tribe in Horizon Forbidden West, during her search for one of GAIA’s subordinate functions. “The Quen are a seafaring tribe from across the Pacific ocean,” Annie Kitain, Lead Writer at Guerrilla explains. “Unlike other tribes Aloy’s met, the Quen have built their society around their ability to use the Focus, which enables them to access and read ancient data. This technological advantage has given them an edge against other tribes in their homeland, the Great Delta, but it has also shaped their culture in interesting ways.” </p>
<p class="">“Knowledge from the ancient past has allowed the Quen to build an impressive empire. But unlike, say, the Oseram tribe, whose technological prowess is due to their creative inventions, the Quen rely solely on the knowledge they’ve unearthed to drive their advancements. As a result, an important part of their culture revolves around protecting the few Focuses the tribe possesses, as well as strictly controlling who can access the valuable information these devices reveal.” </p>
<p class="">“To that end, Diviners play a special role in the tribe. As a highly esteemed class of Quen, only Diviners are allowed to use a Focus to read data. Their job is to find and record ancient knowledge that may benefit the empire, ensuring that it doesn’t fall into the hands of outsiders.”</p>
<p class="">But the Quen’s view of the Old World is skewed. Unlike Aloy’s Focus, we find out when playing Horizon Forbidden West that the devices that the Quen use can only view information up to a certain point in history – anything after that is unreadable. This limitation has led them to misinterpret much of the data they’ve found. Over time, they’ve come to revere a pantheon of Old World paragons, consisting of 21st century CEOs and business tycoons. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52784085574_e24337651d_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52784085574_e24337651d_4k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Eastern Expedition</h2>
<p class="">Much like the lands of the Forbidden West, the Quen homeland has suffered from environmental collapse over the last twenty years. Desperate to find a solution, the Quen came to believe that data from the ancient tech hub of San Francisco might be the key to saving their lands.</p>
<p class="">“Unfortunately, the Expedition faced many hardships,” Annie points out. “Early on, they lost half of their fleet in a violent storm. Then, after the remaining ships managed to make landfall in San Francisco, their search for the data they were after stalled, preventing them from making a triumphant return home. Things weren’t looking so good for them… until Aloy came along.”</p>
<p class="">On her mission to recover DEMETER from the ruins of an ancient Faro research facility, Aloy meets one of the Expedition’s Diviners. “Brilliant and curious, Alva is the first Quen that Aloy could call a friend,” says Annie. “The two bonded over their exploration of Old World ruins and the discoveries they made of the ancient past. During their adventures, Aloy helped Alva uncover a trove of data that could help her people. In return, Alva helped Aloy in her mission and even joined her growing crew of companions in the Base.” </p>
<p class="">“At the end of Forbidden West, Alva chose to stay behind with a handful of soldiers while the rest of the Expedition set sail for home. Thanks to Aloy, she has a new understanding of the world. And with a new threat to life on Earth on its way, she’s determined to do whatever she can to help.” </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52784242810_a4137ad9f0_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52784242810_a4137ad9f0_4k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Heading to the Burning Shores</h2>
<p class="">When asked what else players should know about this tribe before diving into Burning Shores, Annie answers: “I think it’s important to remember that we know much less about the Quen than any other tribe. We only got to scratch the surface in Forbidden West, so get ready to discover much more about them and how the tribe’s rigid hierarchy affects the new characters you’ll meet!”</p>
<p class="">The Quen that ended up in the Burning Shores have been here for some time, and while survival has been a constant challenge, they’ve managed to establish an impressive settlement that’s a lot of fun to explore. Here you’ll meet new characters such as Admiral Gerrit. “We meet him early on in the story,” Annie explains. “He’s a highly decorated commander in the Quen Navy and the leader of this group of Quen. He’s responsible for keeping things together even in their dire circumstances.”   </p>
<p class="">The key art for Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores shows Aloy accompanied by a new companion, recognizable by her Quen attire – Seyka. “We’re excited to introduce Seyka! She’s an ambitious marine who has stepped up to help her people survive. As a new companion for the DLC, Aloy will spend a lot of time with her throughout the story and rely on her help in many situations – a position she doesn’t often find herself in.” </p>
<p class="">“Confident, compassionate, and fierce, Seyka’s quite unlike anyone Aloy has ever encountered, and she plays an important role in the next chapter of Aloy’s journey.” </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52783846671_1a28f7fb25_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52783846671_1a28f7fb25_4k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores is available to pre-order on PlayStation 5 and will be available on April 19. Make sure to follow the team at Guerrilla on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok to learn more about the next chapter in Aloy’s journey!</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/06/full-details-revealed-for-modern-warfare-ii-and-warzone-2-0-season-3-out-april-12/',
                'Full details revealed for Modern Warfare II and Warzone 2.0 Season 3, out April 12',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/ac8dfa4c03049606d34e58e46b82b5e728cd1145.jpeg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">With five new Multiplayer maps, four new game modes, and a new Special Ops Raid, prepare for a massive content offering in Season 03 of<a href="https://www.playstation.com/en-us/games/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-ii/"> Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II</a> and<a href="https://store.playstation.com/en-us/product/UP0002-PPSA01649_00-CODWZ2BUNDLE0001/"> Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0</a>. Alejandro and Valeria return to settle the score, Resurgence expands to Al Mazrah, and Ranked Play for Warzone 2.0 sets the battleground for the most competitive Operators.</p>
<p class="">Season 03 launches on PlayStation on April 12. Now onto the intel.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Modern Warfare II Brings Gunfight, New Maps and Modes</h2>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Gunfight</h3>
<p class="">Prepare for 2v2, multi-round cage matches as Gunfight makes its debut in Modern Warfare II. Players start each round with the same random Loadout, which changes every other round. Eliminate the enemy team or capture the Overtime flag to win the round. The first team to win six rounds takes the match.</p>
<p class="">Gunfight will support four maps at launch, including new maps <strong>Alley</strong>, based somewhere in Al Mazrah,<strong> </strong>and <strong>Blacksite</strong>, which is the new Gulag in Battle Royale.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">New Core and Battle Maps</h3>
<p class=""><strong>Pelayo’s Lighthouse (Core Map, Launch): </strong>A storm rages over this island battleground as Operators take position in the Main Building, set up in one of the scattered maintenance buildings throughout, or brave it in the open.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Black Gold (Core Map, Launch): </strong>Infiltrate Al Mazrah’s Rohan Oil in Black Gold, the first iteration of night ops in Modern Warfare II. Use your night vision goggles and the available light sources to track down and eliminate the enemy team.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52790000497_791f527e33_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52790000497_791f527e33_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Rohan Oilfields (Battle Map, Launch): </strong>Expanding on Black Gold, the Rohan Oilfields Battle Map widens the arena around this Warzone 2.0 point of interest, adding vehicles for rapid transport.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52790558381_1a353f170e_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52790558381_1a353f170e_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Sattiq Cave Complex (Battle Map, Launch): </strong>Explore a network of caves, battle through small buildings, and set up by the downed plane in an area that should recall fond memories for longtime fans of the series.</p>
<p class="">A fifth brand-new Core Map will additionally launch in the midseason.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Get Cranked, Fight the Horde in GW Infected</h3>
<p class="">Two series-favorite game modes are making their way to Season 03:</p>
<p class=""><strong>Cranked (Launch): </strong>Eliminating an enemy activates a timer. Get another elimination before it hits zero or — boom! — you’re out.</p>
<p class=""><strong>GW Infected (In-Season):</strong> Experience Infected on a bigger stage as you fight to survive against the horde on GW maps. Coordinate with your teammates to set up a defense. When you’re infected, take them down. </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">New Multiplayer Ranked Play Rewards</h3>
<p class="">A new season brings new Multiplayer Ranked rewards. Earn rewards for winning Ranked Play matches, plus get new Operator Skins and cosmetics for placing within the Gold Division or above. Get extra rewards for placing in the Top 250 or finishing the season as the top-ranked player in the world.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52790949275_8e17f6ac5e_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52790949275_8e17f6ac5e_h.jpg"/></a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Raid Episode 03 Comes to Special Ops</h3>
<p class="">Take on the Las Almas Cartel in a new Special Ops mission and regroup with Task Force 141 as they embark on Raid Episode 03 in the midseason update.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 Adds Massive Resurgence, Plunder</h2>
<p class=""><strong>Massive Resurgence (Launch):</strong> Massive Resurgence is coming to Al Mazrah; taking place across the entire map, this mode features a higher player count to better fit the playing field.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Plunder (In-Season):</strong> Eliminate enemy Operators, scavenge Supply Boxes, complete contracts and in-game events, and search out loose Cash. In Plunder, it’s all about who can get the richest, quickest. Respawns are enabled and Loadouts are available from the start so you can get right to the money on deployment.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52790792659_c32add2310_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52790792659_c32add2310_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>New Gulag:</strong> Set to replace the current version, a new Gulag is coming to Al Mazrah. Modern Warfare II players who drop into Gunfight will get a taste of the map in Blacksite.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">New Features and Items</h3>
<p class=""><strong>Al Mazrah Redeploy Drones (Launch): </strong>The Redeploy Drones currently flying over Ashika Island are making their way to Al Mazrah. Use their power to launch toward your next target objective.</p>
<p class=""><strong>UAV Towers (Launch): </strong>Sweep the surrounding area for enemy positions using the new UAV Towers, first discovered in DMZ and coming soon to Battle Royale. Note that activating the tower alerts enemy squads, so be ready.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Tempered Plate Carriers (In-Season): </strong>Tempered Plate Carriers require fewer Armor Plates to fill, so replating is speedier and more efficient.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Decontamination Station (In-Season): </strong>Gas closing in fast? Set down this Field Upgrade, which provides a safe atmosphere within the gas that lasts several seconds. This is a vital strategy in surviving the final circle collapse.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Perk Package Items (In-Season):</strong> Players who prefer looting up in the environment instead of calling in a Loadout Drop will now have a means of securing Perks with preset Perk Packages found in Supply Boxes and at Buy Stations.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Deployable Buy Station (In-Season):</strong> Even in the farthest reaches of the map, you can still buy the necessary items by activating the Deployable Buy Station. This portable version features limited stock.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Gulag Entry Kit (In-Season):</strong> Eliminated again? You’re not out of luck yet. Operators with a Gulag Entry Kit on hand can battle in the Gulag for a second time for another chance to return to the field.</p>
<p class=""><strong>High-Capacity Plate Carrier (In-Season): </strong>Carry more Armor Plates for those drawn-out fights.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Arriving Soon — Battle Royale Ranked Play</h3>
<p class="">Launching in the midseason, Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 Ranked Play takes Battle Royale to new competitive heights as Trios climb the ranks to the Top 250. Watch and learn from the best in the upcoming World Series of Warzone, featuring the tournament’s first ever in-person Global Final.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New DMZ Features: Barter System, Workbench, New Faction and Missions</h2>
<p class=""><strong>Barter System:</strong> Trade unwanted items in your inventory using the new Barter Systen feature found at Buy Stations.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Workbench:</strong> For a small fee, add and remove attachments on Contraband weapons. Equip any unlocked attachment on that weapon’s platform. Found near Buy Stations.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Active Duty Operator Slots:</strong> Select from three different Operators when deploying to the DMZ, each with their own inventory, Backpack, Plate Carrier, Killstreaks, Self-Revive, and Gas Mask. Decide whether you want to deploy your best-equipped Operator or a raw recruit.</p>
<p class=""><strong>New Faction, Missions, and Bosses:</strong> A new faction enters the fray, offering three tiers of faction missions and more to come in-season. Brace for new bosses being deployed around the exclusion zone, and seek out concrete intel on the rumors circulating about something deep underground in Al Mazrah.</p>
<p class="">With other features coming, like new Backpack and Plate Carrier types, you know you’re in for some big battle in Season 03. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New Operators, Including Rivals Alejandro and Valeria</h2>
<p class="">Formerly fighting side by side in the Los Vaqueros unit of the Mexican Special Forces, Alejandro Vargas and Valeria Garza are now bitter rivals.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Alejandro:</strong> Born and raised in Las Almas, Alejandro spent over a decade as a high-ranking member of Los Fuerzeas Especiales, the Tier 1 Mexican Army Special Mission counterterror unit. His unit, Los Vaqueros, is the only one in the country authorized to work alongside international Special Operations Forces, including those at the CIA headed by station chief Kate Laswell.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Valeria:</strong> A former Mexican Army commando who used to work alongside Alejandro, Valeria defected to enforcing cartels in 2014 and ultimately ascended to power as the leader of the Las Almas Cartel. She now works under the name El Sin Nombre — the Nameless One.</p>
<p class="">Expect more Operators to join the ranks throughout the season.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New Weapons</h2>
<p class="">Season 03 brings four new weapons in total. Once you earn these, you can use them across all modes. Two of them are earned for free within the Battle Pass:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>FJX Imperium Sniper Rifle: </strong>Engineered destruction at its finest, this anti-personnel, bolt-action sniper rifle intervenes in tense situations with hard-hitting .408 rounds.</li><li><strong>Cronen Squall Battle Rifle: </strong>A bullpup, semi-automatic rifle chambered in 6.8 Wrath and designed for distance shooting and exceptional damage output.</li></ul>
<p class="">Earn two more weapons launching in the midseason either by purchasing a Store Bundle or completing a weapon unlock challenge.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New Seasonal Event and Camo Challenges</h2>
<p class="">During the Season 03 Trophy Hunt event, enemy Operators will drop a trophy whenever they are eliminated in any mode. They can also be found by other means, such as within Supply Boxes. Exchange these trophies for event rewards like Weapon Blueprints, Vehicle Skins, and even Battle Pass Token Tier Skips.</p>
<p class="">Look for the midseason Camo Challenge event, too, giving players the opportunity to earn new seasonal camos.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52790558346_e19f72705b_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52790558346_e19f72705b_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PlayStation Combat Pack</h2>
<p class="">Beginning April 19, PlayStation Plus members will be able to download the Season 03 Combat Pack, featuring a new Operator Skin for Oni consisting of an updated gold face mask and high-tech shoulder padding.</p>
<p class="">The Season 03 Combat Pack also includes the “Striking Distance” Assault Rifle and “Show Stopper” SMG Weapon Blueprints, the “Prepared to Fight” Sticker, “Tusk to Horn” Emblem, “Oni Ready” Weapon Charm, and the “Crumbling” Calling Card.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Out-of-Combat Improvements</h2>
<p class=""><strong>BlackCell: </strong>Set to replace the current Battle Pass Bundle, the BlackCell offering includes everything in the original Bundle and more, including a BlackCell Operator with Animated Camo plus a Weapon Blueprint, Vehicle Skin, and Finishing Move. Begin your Battle Pass journey in an alternate BlackCell Sector, which offers a unique entry point to the rest of the Battle Pass Map that allows you to unlock higher value items more quickly. In addition to all this exciting content, BlackCell will also include a BlackCell Bonus Topper of 12 Operator Skins as well as the Season 03 Battle Pass plus 20 Battle Token Tier Skips– 25 if you are a PlayStation player – access to the BlackCell Sector provides something for everyone.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Automatic Pathing:</strong> If you’d rather unlock Battle Pass items in a linear fashion, the new pathing feature offers an automatic path through the different Sectors. Players can switch between Automatic and Manual pathing at will.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Season 03 of Modern Warfare II Launches April 12</h2>
<p class="">Purchase Modern Warfare II on PlayStation today, and get access to a load of content across three modes, including the ability to unlock 14 exclusive Operators for use across both games. Modern Warfare II owners also get Premium XP while playing Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0, awarded at the end of every match.</p>
<p class="">Stay frosty.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/06/the-mercenaries-for-resident-evil-4-is-available-today/',
                'The Mercenaries for Resident Evil 4 is available today',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/81dc88ccb646177fa2be18eab267f52c467289e5.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Hello PlayStation nation! I’m Edvin Edsö, the Promotion Producer of Resident Evil 4. I hope that you have been enjoying the game these past two weeks! Today, we are pleased to announce the release of a fan favorite mode: The Mercenaries, available as a free DLC. Check out the trailer here first.</p>
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<p class="">The trailer offers a glimpse into the fast-paced gameplay of The Mercenaries, where the goal is to defeat as many enemies as possible in a limited amount of time for the highest score you can.</p>
<p class="">Leon starts each round with all of his weapons, and in order to defeat as many enemies as you can, you must make quick decisions about which weapon to use against which opponent.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52783173987_ad13b65cf6_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52783173987_ad13b65cf6_4k.jpg"/></a></p>
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<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52783173972_c075b0ef3d_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52783173972_c075b0ef3d_4k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52794084514_b05cf9277d_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52794084514_b05cf9277d_4k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">Don’t forget to keep track of how much time you have left. Killing enemies with melee attacks, headshots, and other methods, as well as defeating tougher enemies like the Chainsaw Man, will give you extra time.</p>
<p class="">It is also important to know when to grab the green Time Orbs, which will give you even more time to defeat additional enemies.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52783962684_6ce873c6b5_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52783962684_6ce873c6b5_4k.jpg"/></a>
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<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52783173922_4cb5aeaf68_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52783173922_4cb5aeaf68_4k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52784120945_55b712d620_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52784120945_55b712d620_4k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">Did you notice the yellow diamond-shaped icon? This is the Mayhem Mode meter. When Leon activates Mayhem Mode, his basic abilities such as attack power and movement speed are greatly increased for a period of time! You will also receive additional points, and each enemy you defeat in Mayhem Mode will add extra seconds to the clock. The Mayhem Mode meter accumulates over time, by defeating enemies, and by successfully parrying an attack. The gauge also increases by one when you acquire a Mayhem Mode Orb.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52784120930_168a011489_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52784120930_168a011489_4k.jpg"/></a>
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<p class="">The first stage of The Mercenaries is the Village from the beginning of the game. New stages and more content will be unlocked as you progress.</p>
<p class="">Like the main game, The Mercenaries supports the DualSense controller features. In this mode’s fast-paced gameplay, players can instantly switch weapons and take on multiple enemies, with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers providing an even greater sense of immersion.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52783962554_9eb707d0b5_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52783962554_9eb707d0b5_4k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">How you take on The Mercenaries depends on your own strategy, including weapon selection, positioning, and how you use Mayhem Mode. Whether you have already completed Resident Evil 4, or are just getting started, be sure to check out this intense free DLC.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52784120890_38e3c8787c_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52784120890_38e3c8787c_4k.jpg"/></a>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/07/share-of-the-week-resident-evil-4/',
                'Share of the Week: Resident Evil 4',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/28c07cf86a3608d8195f7ef85eca4813b0ee2c1b.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 crazy and intense moments from Resident Evil 4 using #PSshare and #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights: </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798566490_16e39e1690_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798566490_16e39e1690_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/shitai_/status/1643120037082075139/photo/2"><em>shitai_</em></a><em> shares a portrait of Leon with his gun drawn surrounded by fire.</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797606017_6ed645f1da_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797606017_6ed645f1da_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/kaytanaa/status/1642706833079934976/photo/4"><em>kaytanaa</em></a><em> shares Major Krauser lurking in the shadows</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798174711_92d91d0d19_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798174711_92d91d0d19_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/XxPAGZxX/status/1643672284417212417/photo/2"><em>XxPAGZxX</em></a><em> shares a silhouette of chainsaw man</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797605972_63288a8915_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797605972_63288a8915_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/ERI__VP/status/1643629338347094018/photo/1"><em>ERI__VP</em></a><em> shares a portrait of Luis</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798619478_f5d004081d_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798619478_f5d004081d_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/Ayghan/status/1642845744246693888/photo/1"><em>Ayghan</em></a><em> shares Leon approaching the church village</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798413799_99fd48c73e_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798413799_99fd48c73e_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/Rafaelzoiorb92/status/1642907125503361027/photo/3"><em>Rafaelzoiorb92</em></a><em> shares Ashley succumbing to the plaga</em></p>
<p class="">Search<strong> #PSshare #PSBlog</strong> 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/65535/52798413764_235cca03a2_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798413764_235cca03a2_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>THEME: </strong>Resident Evil 4 – Leon S. Kennedy<br/><strong>SUBMIT BY: </strong>11:59 PM PT on April 12, 2023</p>
<p class="">Next week, we turn the spotlight on the hero of Resident Evil 4, Leon S. Kennedy. Share daring images of Leon 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/2023/04/10/playstation-store-march-2023s-top-downloads/',
                'PlayStation Store: March 2023’s top downloads',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/4c886a3ccf717732f30857c45a6f567fe2ae3059.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">It’s time to see which top downloads for PS5, PS4, PS VR2, PSVR, and F2P brought in the new season. The US and EU PS5 and PS VR 2 charts saw a lot of horror titles in the top three, while the US and EU PS4 charts were deep in sports action. Heavy hitters like MLB The Show 23, Resident Evil 4, and WWE 2K23 all crack the top ten.</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><tbody><tr><td><strong>US/Canada</strong></td><td><strong>EU</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Resident Evil 4</td><td>Resident Evil 4</td></tr><tr><td>MLB The Show 23</td><td>Hogwarts Legacy</td></tr><tr><td>Hogwarts Legacy</td><td>Grand Theft Auto V</td></tr><tr><td>WWE 2K23</td><td>FIFA 23</td></tr><tr><td>NBA 2K23</td><td>F1 22</td></tr><tr><td>Grand Theft Auto V</td><td>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II</td></tr><tr><td>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II</td><td>WWE 2K23</td></tr><tr><td>Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty</td><td>Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order</td></tr><tr><td>Madden NFL 23</td><td>Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty</td></tr><tr><td>Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order</td><td>NBA 2K23</td></tr><tr><td>FIFA 23</td><td>Anno 1800</td></tr><tr><td>The Last of Us Part I</td><td>Resident Evil Village</td></tr><tr><td>Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege</td><td>Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege</td></tr><tr><td>Resident Evil Village</td><td>Cyberpunk 2077</td></tr><tr><td>Resident Evil 3</td><td>Football Manager 2023</td></tr><tr><td>Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot</td><td>Resident Evil 3</td></tr><tr><td>Cyberpunk 2077</td><td>The Last of Us Part I</td></tr><tr><td>PGA TOUR 2K23</td><td>MONSTER HUNTER RISE</td></tr><tr><td>MONSTER HUNTER RISE</td><td>GRAN TURISMO 7</td></tr><tr><td>Need For Speed Unbound</td><td>It Takes Two</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 is-style-ps-product-spec"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>US/Canada</strong></td><td><strong>EU</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Minecraft</td><td>Minecraft</td></tr><tr><td>MLB The Show 23</td><td>EA Sports UFC 4</td></tr><tr><td>NBA 2K23</td><td>FIFA 23</td></tr><tr><td>EA Sports UFC 4</td><td>The Forest</td></tr><tr><td>Resident Evil 4</td><td>F1 22</td></tr><tr><td>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II</td><td>Red Dead Redemption 2</td></tr><tr><td>Red Dead Redemption 2</td><td>Grand Theft Auto V</td></tr><tr><td>Grand Theft Auto V</td><td>NBA 2K23</td></tr><tr><td>The Last of Us Part II</td><td>Resident Evil 4</td></tr><tr><td>WWE 2K23</td><td>The Last of Us Part II</td></tr><tr><td>The Forest</td><td>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II</td></tr><tr><td>Madden NFL 23</td><td>Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order</td></tr><tr><td>FIFA 23</td><td>The Last of Us Remastered</td></tr><tr><td>The Last of Us Remastered</td><td>The Crew 2</td></tr><tr><td>Call of Duty: Black Ops III</td><td>Tekken 7</td></tr><tr><td>Gang Beasts</td><td>Dead Island: Definitive Edition</td></tr><tr><td>Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order</td><td>WWE 2K23</td></tr><tr><td>Outlast 2</td><td>Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint</td></tr><tr><td>Dead Island: Definitive Edition</td><td>Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice</td></tr><tr><td>Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice</td><td>Gang Beasts</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>*Naming of products may differ between regions</em></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PS VR 2 Games*</strong></h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-ps-product-spec"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>US/Canada</strong></td><td><strong>EU</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Pavlov</td><td>Pavlov</td></tr><tr><td>The Dark Pictures: Switchback</td><td>Kayak VR: Mirage</td></tr><tr><td>Kayak VR: Mirage</td><td>The Walking Dead: Saints &amp; Sinners – Chapter 2: Retribution</td></tr><tr><td>The Walking Dead: Saints &amp; Sinners – Chapter 2: Retribution</td><td>Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge</td></tr><tr><td>Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge</td><td>Drums Rock</td></tr><tr><td>PISTOL WHIP</td><td>PISTOL WHIP</td></tr><tr><td>Horizon Call of the Mountain</td><td>Synth Riders</td></tr><tr><td>Swordsman VR</td><td>Swordsman VR</td></tr><tr><td>Drums Rock</td><td>Horizon Call of the Mountain</td></tr><tr><td>Job Simulator</td><td>Job Simulator</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>PS VR Games</strong></h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-ps-product-spec"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>US/Canada</strong></td><td><strong>EU</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Beat Saber</td><td>Beat Saber</td></tr><tr><td>SUPERHOT VR</td><td>SUPERHOT VR</td></tr><tr><td>Job Simulator</td><td>Batman: Arkham VR</td></tr><tr><td>Astro Bot Rescue Mission</td><td>Sniper Elite VR</td></tr><tr><td>The Walking Dead Onslaught</td><td>Job Simulator</td></tr><tr><td>Creed: Rise to Glory</td><td>The Walking Dead Onslaught</td></tr><tr><td>Batman: Arkham VR</td><td>Arizona Sunshine</td></tr><tr><td>Sniper Elite VR</td><td>Astro Bot Rescue Mission</td></tr><tr><td>Arizona Sunshine</td><td>PlayStation VR Worlds</td></tr><tr><td>PlayStation VR Worlds</td><td>Creed: Rise to Glory</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><tbody><tr><td><strong>US/Canada</strong></td><td><strong>EU</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Fortnite</td><td>Fortnite</td></tr><tr><td>Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0</td><td>Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0</td></tr><tr><td>Apex Legends</td><td>Rocket League</td></tr><tr><td>Fall Guys</td><td>Fall Guys</td></tr><tr><td>Rocket League</td><td>The Sims 4</td></tr><tr><td>Destiny 2</td><td>eFootball 2023</td></tr><tr><td>Overwatch 2</td><td>Destiny 2</td></tr><tr><td>The Sims 4</td><td>Apex Legends</td></tr><tr><td>eFootball 2023</td><td>Overwatch 2</td></tr><tr><td>MultiVersus</td><td>KartRider: Drift</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/10/recap-girls-make-games-playstation-studios-workshop/',
                'Recap: Girls Make Games PlayStation Studios workshop',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/e25ae50a56b78616982251d037e3fdc83daad6e7.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Each year, the workshops and activities from Girls Make Games (GMG) leave me feeling more proud, surprised and excited about the gaming industry than the last. Last year, women accounted for <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/232383/gender-split-of-us-computer-and-video-gamers/">48% of gamers</a> in the United States, and at every level of the industry, women are accounting for more and more of the gaming workforce. Whether in development, publishing, marketing, competitive esports, journalism, or any other area of the gaming sphere, women are making their collective presence known and their individual voices heard.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796608704_7179f24ab4_b.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796608704_7179f24ab4_b.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">Girls Make Games was founded to help cultivate the voices of the next generation of women in games, giving them a platform and the resources to pursue their passions. For this year’s iteration, and in celebration of Women’s History Month, Sony Interactive Entertainment provided participants with an unprecedented opportunity to visit with one of three development studios—Sucker Punch Productions, Insomniac Games, and Bend Studio—to learn, listen and connect with other young creatives in a welcoming and instructive environment.</p>
<p class="">Let’s take a closer look at how each event went:</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sucker Punch Productions</h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796372436_8c32b5ca4f_b.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796372436_8c32b5ca4f_b.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">This event invited attendees to participate in interactive workshops hosted by GMG instructors, allowing them to learn the nuts and bolts of game design, like art, sound and coding. Every GMG event is open to girls of all skill levels, but in this case, many attendees had already begun developing their craft.</p>
<p class="">“I was surprised by how many of our participants were so experienced already,” said Brian Fleming, founder of Sucker Punch Productions. “For [some], it was perhaps their second or third event with GMG, and they were pushing well beyond the curriculum for the day. It was awesome to see!”</p>
<p class="">At its core, GMG is about engagement at the grassroots level, as part of a wider push throughout the industry to challenge an outdated culture of homogeneity. “I see GMG and similar efforts as the most impactful solution to the profound gender imbalance in our business,” Fleming said. “It requires patience and a long-term view, but to my mind it’s [a] real solution.”</p>
<p class="">The workshops held at Sucker Punch’s studio in Bellevue, Washington were broken into two groups, accounting for the different experience levels of each participant. Within those groups, each attendee was able to practice their skills and make their own individual contributions to a collaborative project.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796759845_3611dbe364_b.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796759845_3611dbe364_b.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">Joanna Wang, Production Art Director for Sucker Punch Productions, highlighted the importance of encouraging each girl’s specific interests. “They may like art, they may like coding—a little piece of how to make a game. And what we can do is give them the big picture view, explaining how those pieces fit together.”</p>
<p class="">She continued: “We’re showing them some of the tools needed to make a video game, and they can see what part of that process interests them. So hopefully, they can identify a personal strength, and start thinking about how they can apply that to their future.”</p>
<p class="">Sucker Punch is known for many hit PlayStation titles, like the beloved <em>Sly Cooper </em>series and their most recent success, <em>Ghost of Tsushima</em>. But they still retain a tight-knit work environment. “We’re big enough to have some exciting facilities: mocap, our foley studio—and of course snack bins in the kitchen,” Fleming laughed. “But we’re also small enough that I don’t think it was overwhelming for them.”</p>
<p class="">The welcoming environment helped encourage a creative mindset for each participant. “We really valued the fresh perspectives they brought, the questions they’d ask,” Wang said. “One girl was into traditional painting, but wanted to translate that skill to video games. That motivated me in turn to bring that same creative energy to our own games—she wanted to be one of us, right? And that made me proud of what I do, but also proud of what she’ll bring to the industry in the future.”</p>
<p class="">She added: “Another girl asked me about what internships Sucker Punch offers! She was so ready, so into it. In moments like that, I can feel the passing of the torch to the next generation.”</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Insomniac Games</h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52795801957_57c49425a2_b.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52795801957_57c49425a2_b.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">Located in sunny Burbank, California, Insomniac Games was founded in 1994, and their offices provided the perfect environment for the GMG workshops. “We had around twelve eager kids come through, from our local community here in Burbank to as far out as New Mexico,” said Aaron Jason Espinoza, Sr. Community Manager at Insomniac Games. “We wanted them to learn not just about making games, but how games can affect players’ emotions, and the importance of thinking about the player’s experience.” </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796324156_09ee9864ec_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796324156_09ee9864ec_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">After a brief tour of the studio and some photos with Ratchet’s Omni-wrench and Rivet’s hammer, participants sat down to meet with several key employees—or Insomniacs—to ask questions and learn about the many hands involved in making games. Animators, writers, audio designers, programmers, community managers; all of these and more shared their experiences with the group, and highlighted their contributions to the team’s projects.</p>
<p class="">“It was a brilliant look at how game dev is a collaborative effort,” Espinoza explained. “The kids were amazed at all the avenues they could take to pursue a life and career as a game developer.” Participants then were given a chance to apply what they’d learned by developing their own side-scrolling platformer, and Espinoza was impressed by the results. “They were thinking about platform placement, enemy locations, and what worked best for the player’s experience.”</p>
<p class="">“The experience was awesome, and our team was delighted to host it,” said Espinoza. “We can’t wait to see what these kids do with the knowledge they’ll develop as they grow into game developers themselves!”<strong> </strong></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bend Studio</h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52795756242_3b70326147_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52795756242_3b70326147_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">This workshop marked the first time that Bend Studio had ever hosted a Girls Make Games workshop, inviting thirteen participants from the local community to their offices in central Oregon. Like the other two events, this day of activities centered around the hands-on workshops that provided real experience in the basics of game development, as well as the opportunity to pick the brains of the women of Bend Studios.</p>
<p class="">“We started the workshop with a tour, showing the kids around the multiple floors of the building where our different departments sit and collaborate,” said Kevin McAllister, Community Manager at Bend Studio. “Of course, the big Rager Bear statue received a lot of attention,” he added with a laugh. After the tour’s completion, participants settled in to start creating their own side-scrolling platformer, with the goal of realizing a finished product by the end of the day.</p>
<p class="">“They were so excited to see their work come to fruition and how their creativity turned into something they were truly proud of,” McAllister said. “From cute little foxes to a blinking frog, the characters they created to implement in their level even had our own developers impressed by what they achieved in such a short amount of time.”</p>
<p class="">As with the workshops held at the Insomniac and Sucker Punch offices, the developers encouraged each individual participant to identify a personal strength as it relates to game design and development, and sharpen that skill through the workshop’s exercises. Following a lunch break, members of the Bend team from various disciplines within the studio hosted a dev panel to talk about their journeys into the gaming industry, share their roles and responsibilities, and answer questions from the attentive group.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796325616_39cc081d00_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796325616_39cc081d00_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">Between the creative activities and the conversational discussions about finding a career in the gaming industry, the Bend team worked hard to deliver a well-rounded, informative, and fun experience for every attendee. “It was an absolute privilege for our team to host this incredible experience,” McAllister said. “We had a lot of fun talking about games with the next generation of game developers. Maybe one day, we’ll even see them working on a future project at Bend Studio!”</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/11/warhammer-40-000-boltgun-releases-may-23-new-gameplay-details-revealed/',
                'Warhammer 40 000: Boltgun releases May 23, new gameplay details revealed',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/cdd91d128e79e3119950ca60a4521bb948fbd20c.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Hi everyone, Grant Stewart here, lead designer at Auroch Digital. We’re developing Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun<strong><em>, </em></strong>a bloody and frenetic homage to the retro shooters of yore, and we are super thrilled to share a new gameplay trailer and announce the game’s release date: May 23! The game is available for pre-orders on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4, so load up your boltgun!</p>
<p class="has-default-font">In Boltgun, you play as a battle-hardened Space Marine on a perilous mission across the galaxy to fight against the Warriors and daemons of Chaos. You’ll unleash a devastating Imperial arsenal as you blast through an explosion of sprites, pixels and blood, in glorious boomer shooter-style. Here’s a bit more about how the game delivers a unique Warhammer 40,000 experience with a perfect blend of classic, frenetic FPS gameplay and stylish visuals from your favorite 90s retro shooters.</p>
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<img alt="Warhammer 40 000: Boltgun releases May 23, new gameplay details revealed" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/ka995DSYF1c/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Modern engine</h2>
<p class="">In past classic shooters, enemies were simply dropped into the environment for you to shoot like a very sophisticated target range. Boltgun features a modern take on this. On top of plenty of classic locations with enemies diligently hand placed, there’s also areas where waves of heretics are dynamically spawned by an intelligent system to seek the most exciting positions to challenge the player. In these situations, designers pick the enemies using a “nodegraph” and construct escalating “encounters”. They then populate the combat “arenas” using “spawn points”, to denote locations where the enemies can appear in the world and “zones”, controlling the positions they should try to move to during combat. As the fight progresses the AI looks for the most suitable zone and attempts to move to it and engage the player.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798577439_545134cebe_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798577439_545134cebe_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>A tactical marine and his finite state machines</em></p>
<p class="">In early shooters, intelligence was “hard coded” into the AI’s brains. They moved, hunted and shot based on simple rules that were executed largely in order. The current zeitgeist for digital adversaries revolves around “Behaviour Trees”, hierarchies of orders that the AI executes based on factors in the environment. The AI of Boltgun uses an alternative called “Finite State Machines”, a system first popularized by the Grunts of Half-Life. Every enemy has a brain that looks like a nodegraph. Within the graph are “state” nodes that the AI’s thoughts can occupy. When an AI is in one of these states it executes that state’s actions (shooting a gun, walking towards the player, throwing a grenade) and then uses “conditions” to work out what state it should transition to next. Our AI has states for all their attacks but also for “aware”, “unaware”, “flinch”, “dead” and “overkill”. Anything the enemies of Boltgun can do, including exploding into chunks of flesh, is part of their state machine.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Vintage paintwork</h2>
<p class="">Unlike the fully 3D models used for characters and objects in modern video games, retro games used “sprites”, two dimensional lists of pixel colors that represented flat images. As a modern game emulating those vintage aesthetics, Boltgun uses a hybrid system taking the best of modern technology and slamming it, pixels first, into the old ways.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52800394779_2b5f664fbd_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52800394779_2b5f664fbd_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>A 3D Warhammer 40K model</em></p>
<p class="">The undisputed best retro shooter, id’s Doom had a unique approach to making its characters. The developers built maquettes (scale models) of Doom’s enemies and then photographed them from different directions. The photographs were then digitized and used in the game to represent the enemies. Modern games have become extremely good at creating beautiful characters that move in lifelike ways, as there are countless tools dedicated to just that. For Boltgun we created a hybrid process. Our enemies are modeled and textured in modern sculpting software, paying close attention to the details of Games Workshop’s tabletop miniatures. Then they’re “rigged”, a process involving giving them bones to form a skeleton that controls how the model can move. Once they’re fully rigged the models are passed to the animation team to bring them to life.</p>
<p class="">All of this is pretty standard in the current games industry process, but the next step is where Boltgun’s unique magic happens. First our animated models are “rendered out” as digital images, then virtual cameras take shots of the models from eight directions as they cycle through the frames of their animations. These images are imported into the Unreal engine and stitched back together into 2D flipbook animations. Every animation is collected together and data for the enemy they represent is created to allow our artists to tweak them and set where in the animation an enemy should deal damage, make a sound, or lob a fireball.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798782563_c4664af4ae_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798782563_c4664af4ae_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">So now you know that while we might be having fun pretending Boltgun is an authentic 90s game, remastered by the talented team at Auroch Digital; the truth is that Boltgun is a very modern game built from scratch in a very modern engine!</p>
<p class="">Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun is available for pre-order on PS5 and PS4 and comes out May 23.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/11/god-of-war-ragnarok-new-game-plus-build-guide/',
                'God of War Ragnarök New Game Plus Build guide',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/b515d5d19f57c9b566983555673b57714777bdae-scaled.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">God of War Ragnarök’s New Game Plus (NG+) update is now available and with it comes a ton of new options for Kratos builds!</p>
<p class="">Without our amazing QA team, both God of War Ragnarök and NG+ would not have been possible. Not only do they have incredible game knowledge, but our QA folks are also some of the most creative when it comes to coming up with unique playstyles.  </p>
<p class="">We went to a selection of our top combat specialists in QA to get their favorite builds that are now possible with NG+, scratching just the surface of the many powerful combinations that can be made with this update!</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Can’t Touch This</strong></h2>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Build by: Wilson Santiago, QA Analyst</strong></h3>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796507636_da4ca6d699_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="Kratos faces off against Gna, the Valkyrie Queen in the Muspelheim Arena, he is executing a counter against Gna’s attack with his shield raised. Kratos is wearing the equipment from the build." height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796507636_da4ca6d699_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Try this if you like</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Glass cannon playstyle</li><li>High mobility and damage output</li><li>Last-second evades/counters</li><li>Realm Shifts</li></ul>
<p class="">This set-up will let you dance around your enemies until you get the perfect opening to strike with massive damage. Built around proficiency with last-second evades and counter-striking, this build uses Realm Shifts and increased damage against status-afflicted enemies to bob and weave between opponents while punishing every miss. If you’re confident in timing your dodges, this set-up can shred even the likes of Valkyrie Queen Gná and King Hrolf… just don’t get hit!</p>
<p class=""><strong>Armor</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>Cloak of the Black Bear</strong> – Increases immunity duration while evading, last-second evades fire a volley of Bifröst shards.</li><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>Gauntlets of Zeus</strong> – Increases Melee and Runic damage by 20%, but also increases damage received by 40%.</li><li><strong>Belt of Radiance</strong></li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Enchantments</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>Meign</strong> – Strength/Cooldown stat boost. </li><li><strong>Vanaheim Set Bonus   </strong> </li><li><strong>Sigil of Doom</strong></li><li><strong>Emblem of the Nine Realms</strong>  </li><li><strong>Memento of the Ailing</strong></li><li><strong>Emblem of Elusion</strong></li><li><strong>Boon of Valor </strong>or<strong> Boon of Wrath</strong></li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Weapon Attachments</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Leviathan Axe</strong>: Grip of the Nine Realms</li><li><strong>Blades, Spear, Shield Rönd</strong>: Anything prioritizing Strength stat.</li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Relic</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Hilt of Hofuð</strong></li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Spartan Rage</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Valor</strong> or <strong>Wrath</strong></li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Companion – Weapons</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Atreus</strong>: Jötnar Bow</li><li><strong>Freya</strong>: Mardoll</li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Companion – Accessories</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Runic Potency III</strong></li><li><strong>Nocked Proficiency III</strong></li><li><strong>Sigil Amplification III</strong></li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Companion – Runic Summon</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Atreus</strong>: Falcon’s Dive</li><li><strong>Freya: </strong>Player Preference</li></ul>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796949323_d958b1f666_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="Image shows the in-game Armor menu with the recommended pieces from this build equipped. The selected piece is the chest armor, the Cloak of the Black Bear. " height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796949323_d958b1f666_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52795936962_37678fffde_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="Image show the in-game Enchantments menu with the recommended Enchantments equipped in the Amulet of Yggdrasil. The selected Enchantment is one from the Vanaheim set, showing the Set Bonus effect that increases Kratos’ Melee damage against status-afflicted enemies. " height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52795936962_37678fffde_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class=""><strong>How does it play?</strong></p>
<p class="">While squishy compared other builds, the new Cloak of the Black Bear pairs perfectly with the Belt of Radiance to reward you for timing those last-second evades with both Bifröst damage and a Realm Shift. By equipping the Grip of the Nine Realms and the Hilt of Hofuð, you’ll also have two activated Realm Shifts at your disposal, which means you can cut through the toughest of enemies while they’re stuck in place long enough to make Heimdall jealous. </p>
<p class="">This build is also amazing at keeping the Hex status applied on enemies, as Atreus and Freya can do so using only two arrows. Between Kratos and your companion, you should be able to keep your enemies consistently status-afflicted to make the most of your buffs.</p>
<p class="">This build allows Permafrost, Immolation, and Maelstrom gauges to fill incredibly fast, so you’ll be able to take full advantage of each Realm Shift to melt enemy healthbars.    </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Status Striker</strong></h2>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Build by: TJ Gilbert, Senior QA Analyst</strong></h3>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796744969_b84fa3fabf_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="Kratos strikes out against a Draugr with his shield, the attack inflicting Poison against it. They are fighting in the Niflheim Arena, the ground and walls are covered in ice. Kratos is wearing the equipment from the build." height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796744969_b84fa3fabf_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Try this if you like</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Bare-handed/Shield combat</li><li>Frequent Runic and Rage usage</li><li>Status Effects</li><li>Stunning enemies</li></ul>
<p class="">This set-up is built around rapidly applying the poison status and building up stun with bare-handed attacks, while also reducing the cooldown time on your powerful Runic Attacks and Relic for frequent use. Pummel your enemies into submission while building up Rage to release a massive wave of damage once you’re ready to unleash your Wrath.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Armor</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Giptumaðr’s Breastplate</strong></li><li><strong>Lúnda’s Lost Bracers</strong></li><li><strong>Fate Breaker Belt</strong></li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Enchantments</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>Lúnda’s Engraving</strong> – Bare-handed attacks, Parrying, and Blocking have a chance to deal bonus damage and poison enemies, lowering their Power Level.</li><li><strong>Boon of Wrath</strong></li><li><strong>Stunning Fang</strong></li><li><strong>Vanaheim Set Bonus</strong></li><li><strong>Svartalfheim Set Bonus   </strong> </li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Weapon Attachments</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Leviathan Axe</strong>: Grip of Weighted Recovery </li><li><strong>Blades of Chaos</strong>: Cursed Empress Handles</li><li><strong>Draupnir Spear</strong>: Hind of Weightless Recovery </li><li><strong>Shield Rönd</strong>: Player Preference</li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Relic</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Hilt of Garm </strong></li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Spartan Rage</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Wrath</strong></li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Companion – Weapons, Accessories, Runic Summons:</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Atreus and Freya</strong>: Player Preference</li></ul>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796895750_607a3c3c5f_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt=" Image shows the in-game Armor menu with the recommended pieces from this build equipped. The selected piece is the chest armor, Giptumaðr’s Breastplate +. " height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796895750_607a3c3c5f_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796744984_b2d6f1c765_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="Image show the in-game Enchantments menu with the recommended Enchantments equipped in the Amulet of Yggdrasil. The selected Enchantment is Lúnda’s Engraving, which gives the Perk Vanir Poison." height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796744984_b2d6f1c765_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class=""><strong>How does it play?</strong></p>
<p class="">This build uses the new Enchantment Lúnda’s Engraving to give you access to the powerful Vanir Poison Perk from Lúnda’s Lost Cuirass while having Giptumaðr’s Breastplate equipped to grant you Fortune’s Refresh. As both Perks scale off Luck, this build invests heavily in that stat to ensure you’ll have a high chance to proc their effects with your attacks.</p>
<p class="">Start the encounter by applying poison to your enemies with bare-handed attacks to make the most of your set buffs that increase damage against status-afflicted enemies. This set also increases stun and damage to stunned enemies, so using your fists and shield creates a lot of opportunities for extra punishment on top of status application. Use your Runic Attacks and Hilt of Garm to proc the Fortune’s Refresh Perk to restore Cooldown on your powerful abilities for frequent usage while consistently building up Rage.  </p>
<p class="">Once you have enough in your Spartan Rage Meter, make sure your enemies are status-afflicted and activate Wrath. With the Boon of Wrath and Vanaheim Enchantment Set Bonus, the shockwave from your activation will consume the status and deal massive damage!</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The Minefield</strong></h2>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Build by: Wilson Santiago, QA Analyst</strong></h3>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796895860_7a7a79deae_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="Kratos and Atreus fight against a pair of Draugr in the Niflheim Arena. Kratos is mid-stepping on a Health Crystal, the effects of Health and Rage gain envelop his chest. The Draugr closest to Kratos is being pushed away from the explosion caused by using the crystal. Atreus is using his Runic Summon Bitter Squirrel, which is dropping both Health and Rage Stones onto the arena floor. " height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796895860_7a7a79deae_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Try this if you like</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Frequent Rage usage</li><li>AoE burst damage</li><li>That noise Health and Rage Stones make when they get crunched</li><li>Lots of Explosions</li></ul>
<p class="">This build is all about the RAGE! Using pieces of the new Ares Armor, this set-up boasts high burst damage capabilities by maximizing the chance that Health and Rage Stones drop, turning each one into a deadly blast. Make even the most unassuming arenas a minefield of pain for your enemies with this explosively good combo!</p>
<p class=""><strong>Armor</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>Cuirass of Ares</strong> – Rage hits have a chance to drop a Health Stone. Health Stones will also grant Rage and all stones trigger bigger explosions.</li><li><strong>Giptumaðr’s Gauntlets </strong></li><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>War Belt of Ares</strong> – Activating Rage when Rage Meter is fill increases all damage done for a short duration.</li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Enchantments</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>Mannvit</strong> – Runic/Cooldown stat boost.</li><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>Fjölkyngi – </strong>Runic/Vitality stat boost.</li><li><strong>Niflheim Set Bonus</strong></li><li><strong>Stone Idol of Souls  </strong></li><li><strong>Seal of Runic Storm</strong></li><li><strong>Eir’s Armament</strong></li><li><strong>Boon of Valor</strong></li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Weapon Attachments</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>All</strong>: Anything prioritizing high Runic and/or Luck</li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Relic</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Hilt of Hofuð</strong></li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Spartan Rage</strong>:  </p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Valor</strong></li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Companion – Weapons:</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Atreus and Freya</strong>: Player Preference</li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Companion – Accessories:</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>All 3</strong>: Player Preference</li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Companion – Runic Summon:</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Atreus</strong>: Bitter Squirrel </li><li><strong>Freya: </strong>Player Preference</li></ul>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796507511_742180cd66_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="Image shows the in-game Armor menu with the recommended pieces from this build equipped. The selected piece is the chest armor, the Cuirass of Ares, from the new Ares Armor set exclusive to New Game Plus.  " height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796507511_742180cd66_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52795936882_47d96c7734_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="Image show the in-game Enchantments menu with the recommended Enchantments equipped in the Amulet of Yggdrasil. The selected Enchantment is one from the Niflheim set, showing the Set Bonus effect that increases Kratos’ Melee when he is above 75% of health based on Defense.  " height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52795936882_47d96c7734_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class=""><strong>How does it play?</strong></p>
<p class="">This build is very unique and a TON of fun! The primary goal is making use of exploding Health and Rage Stones as much as possible during the fight to turn the ground just as hostile to your enemies as Kratos.</p>
<p class="">With this set-up, you’ll get incredible value when you activate your Spartan Rage. The Boon of Valor and War Belt of Ares will both provide you a powerful damage buff, while the Cuirass of Ares increases the chance that a Health Stone will drop, as well as the damage caused when you explode them. Additionally, the Cuirass will synergize well with the Stone Idol of Souls Enchantment to give you more consistent Rage replenishment for frequent use.</p>
<p class="">With this build’s extremely high Luck stat, you’ll have a big chance for a stone to drop from any Runic Attack or Rage hit. Combine that with the Bitter Squirrel Runic Summon and you’ll be stomping stones left and right throughout every encounter. </p>
<p class="">Once you’ve got the ground covered, get in close and activate the Hilt of Hofuð Relic to keep your enemies locked in place with a Realm Shift while you crush the stones to chain high damage explosions!</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Zeus’ Wrath</strong></h2>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Build by: Evan Gilbert, QA Analyst</strong></h3>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796507341_5cfef0e9fb_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="Kratos faces off against Hel-Raiders in the Muspelheim Arena. The ground is covered in a large frost effect from Kratos’ Runic Summon ability. Kratos has his shield raised against his enemies, holding the Leviathan Axe in his right hand as he prepares for their approach." height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796507341_5cfef0e9fb_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Try this if you like</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Huge AoE damage</li><li>Crowd control</li><li>Frequent use of Runic Attacks and Relic</li><li>Swapping weapons</li></ul>
<p class="">This build encourages repeated Runic Attacks and Relic usage through Cooldown buffs to keep the ground covered in high-damage AoEs while cycling weapons. Not only does this set-up mete out punishment to multiple enemies at once, but it also emphasizes crowd control and positioning capabilities so you can take full control over the battlefield like a true Spartan general.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Armor</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Giptumaðr’s Breastplate</strong></li><li><strong>Berserker Gauntlets</strong></li><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>War Belt of Zeus</strong> – Increases Melee and Runic damage by 20%, while increasing damage received by 40%.</li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Enchantments</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>Vald</strong> – Cooldown/Strength stat boost.</li><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>Mannvit</strong> – Runic/Cooldown stat boost. </li><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>Hjartablóð</strong> – Vitality/Luck stat boost.</li><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>Guiding Light Engraving</strong> – Chance to increase Strength, Runic, and Luck of Kratos’ weapons. </li><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>Fallen Stars Engraving</strong> – Greatly reduces damage taken when using a Runic Attack or Relic.</li><li><strong>Attuned Runic Gem</strong></li><li><strong>Seal of the Runic Storm</strong></li><li><strong>Boon of Wrath </strong></li><li><strong>Use for Multiple Enemy Encounters</strong>: <strong>Eir’s Armaments</strong> </li><li><strong>[NEW IN NG+]</strong> <strong>Use for Boss Encounters</strong>: <strong>Radiance Engraving</strong> – Chance to grant a Blessing of Runic on any last-second evade.</li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Leviathan Axe</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Attachment</strong>: Grip of the Nine Realms – Chosen for stat boost, do not use Momentous Shift unless necessary as it will consume your Permafrost gauge.</li><li><strong>Light Runic</strong>: Winter’s Bite</li><li><strong>Heavy Runic</strong>: Mists of Helheim</li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Blades of Chaos</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Attachment</strong>: Pommels of the True Flame</li><li><strong>Light Runic</strong>: Flame of Anguish</li><li><strong>Heavy Runic</strong>: Meteoric Slam</li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Draupnir Spear</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Attachment</strong>: Hind of Weightless Recovery </li><li><strong>Light Runic</strong>: Whisper of the World</li><li><strong>Heavy Runic</strong>: Vindsvalr’s Windstorm </li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Shield</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Dauntless Shield</strong></li><li><strong>Rönd of Expedition</strong></li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Relic</strong>:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Hilt of Hrotti</strong></li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Spartan Rage</strong>:  </p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Wrath</strong></li></ul>
<p class=""><strong>Companion – Weapons, Accessories, Runic Summons:</strong></p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Atreus and Freya</strong>: Player Preference</li></ul>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796895750_607a3c3c5f_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="Image shows the in-game Armor menu with the recommended pieces from this build equipped. The selected piece is the chest armor, Giptumaðr’s Breastplate +. " height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796895750_607a3c3c5f_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796949443_cc1818d92b_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="Image show the in-game Enchantments menu with the recommended Enchantments equipped in the Amulet of Yggdrasil. The selected Enchantment Vald, which greatly raises Kratos’ Cooldown stat. This Enchantment is exclusive to NG+ and drops after defeating a Berserker Soul.  " height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796949443_cc1818d92b_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class=""><strong>How does it play?</strong></p>
<p class="">This build is especially great when dealing with groups of enemies. It has an emphasis on large AoE Runic Attacks and Cooldown reduction, so reaching multiple foes across any arena won’t be a problem. Frequent use of your Runic Attacks and Relic may leave Kratos vulnerable while he casts them, so be careful with your timing and positioning when using this build.</p>
<p class="">Begin an encounter by using the Hilt of Hrotti. This Relic will apply a mark to enemies that heavily reduces Cooldown when dealing damage to them. Then quickly use a Runic Attack from each weapon to activate the effect of the Seal of Runic Storm for additional Bifröst damage. If you need to group enemies up, use the Draupnir Spear’s Light Runic Attack Whisper of the World before you start applying your heavy-hitting AoEs.</p>
<p class="">Continue cycling through your weapons while using your Runic Attacks to build momentum which will result in even more buffs and reductions in cooldown times. Since you will be applying status effects with your Runic Attacks, once your Spartan Rage Meter has filled you can activate Wrath to deal heavy damage.</p>
<p class="">—-</p>
<p class="">We hope these builds have inspired you to jump back into God of War Ragnarök’s New Game + mode! There are countless combinations waiting to be discovered, we can’t wait to see what our community creates. </p>
<p class="">Got a creative build? Share it with us on the official Santa Monica Studio Discord!For the latest updates around God of War Ragnarök, make sure you follow Santa Monica Studio on<a href="https://twitter.com/SonySantaMonica"> Twitter</a>,<a href="https://www.facebook.com/godofwar"> Facebook</a>, and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/santamonicastudio/"> Instagram</a>.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/11/uncover-new-ghostly-tales-in-ghostwire-tokyo-spiders-thread-update-out-now/',
                'Uncover new ghostly tales in Ghostwire: Tokyo Spider’s Thread update – out now',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/3ece9af9de1cdf3f7e9d68f5f45b08a0a133c8e5.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">As nearly all of Tokyo’s populace vanished in an instant and beings from another world took their place, players in the role of survivor Akito made an unlikely alliance with the ghost detective KK to save the city from catastrophe. With the free Spider’s Thread update, available for all Ghostwire: Tokyo players on PlayStation 5, Akito &amp; KK face new stories and challenges that require their supernatural expertise. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796691576_5323c74886_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796691576_5323c74886_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Featuring a new rogue-lite “The Spider’s Thread” game mode challenging players to navigate a 30-stage gauntlet putting their ghost-hunting skills to the test, this update also includes added enemies, enhanced combat abilities, extended story cinematics, Photo Mode enhancements and yes, areas to explore with two new side missions to uncover! </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796119737_4e8f048781_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796119737_4e8f048781_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Fear for the Children</strong> </h2>
<p class="">Akito &amp; KK explore the new Middle School location added with the Spider’s Thread update to investigate reports of missing students, only to discover the two aren’t alone as something – or some <em>things </em>– stalk the school’s hallways. Uncover the secrets behind the strange phenomena occurring in the haunted school, including an eerie science mannequin, a paranormal sighting in the bathroom and even the legend of “Hananko-san,” a malevolent spirt that’s been doing some nasty studying-up of her own…</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797136253_d9c6fccf35_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797136253_d9c6fccf35_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Spirits of the Modern Age</strong> </h2>
<p class="">Our duo uncover a series of 25 strange photographs, each seemingly taken near a source of supernatural evil. Noticing the photos respond with psychic effects and unsettling markings as they near the places they were taken, Akito &amp; KK set out to find on a mission to find and purge these areas using their detective skills. Use landmarks, signage and other key clues in each photograph to find and stop the darkness that’s encroaching.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796691766_76fbd75a6a_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52796691766_76fbd75a6a_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">“Spirits of the Modern Age” also offers an opportunity to use an all-new feature debuting in The Spider’s Thread update: Reduced Psychic Effects. When toggled on, it eliminates certain psychic effects and replaces them with adorable SHIIBUYA♡HACHI stickers, allowing players to sprinkle some cute over their creepy as they explore.</p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
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<p class="">Whether you’re starting Ghostwire: Tokyo for the first time or planning a return visit, there’s ton to discover lurking in the alleys of Tango Gameworks’ supernatural vision of Tokyo with the Spider’s Thread update. Check out the Spider’s Thread update for Ghostwire: Tokyo today on PlayStation 5.  </p>
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                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/11/state-of-play-presents-a-special-look-at-final-fantasy-xvi/',
                'State of Play presents a special look at Final Fantasy XVI',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/4714033ad70b783525fcc813ce7cd41a62309bd9.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">From the moment Final Fantasy XVI debuted in our 2020 <a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2020/09/16/final-fantasy-xvi-announced-for-ps5/">PlayStation 5 Showcase</a>, fans around the world have eagerly awaited details on the game’s dark fantasy setting, the powerful Eikons and the Dominants who house them, and the flashy battle system teased in those early trailers.</p>
<p class="">We’re happy to announce this week’s State of Play will dive into all this and more, so tune in live on <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/playstation">Twitch</a> or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9whIgbzxrrI">YouTube</a> April 13 at 2pm PT / 5pm ET / 11pm CEST, then get ready for Final Fantasy XVI’s <a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/final-fantasy-xvi/">PS5 launch</a> on June 22. </p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9whIgbzxrrI" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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</div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>Regarding Co-streaming and Video-On-Demand (VOD)</em></strong></h2>
<p class=""><em>Please note that this web 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 possibly interfere with co-streams or VOD archives of this stream. </em></p>
<p class=""><em>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.</em></p>
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                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/12/20230412-psstore_th/',
                '(For Southeast Asia)  The Songkran Sale comes to PlayStation Store',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/ad00998c2bd3553ba48bf48dec3415a9970db2b0-scaled.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Update: PlayStation Store’s Sale gets a refresh on April 12, bringing with it new titles and add-ons, giving you discounts of up to 80% for a limited time*. That includes FIFA 23 Ultimate Edition (PS4/PS5), Ghost of Tsushima DIRECTOR’S CUT (PS4/PS5), ONE PIECE ODYSSEY (PS4/PS5) and Dead Space (PS5).</p>
<p class="">The list is so huge we can’t include everything here, head to<a data-id="https://store.playstation.com/pages/SpringSale?emcid=or-pl-466055" data-type="URL" href="https://store.playstation.com/pages/SpringSale?emcid=or-pl-466055" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank"> PlayStation Store </a>to discover your regional discount pricing.</p>
<p class=""><em>*PlayStation Store’s Songkran Sale ends 26 April.</em></p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/12/fight-for-ps-vr2-glory-in-upcoming-zenith-the-last-city-pvp-mode/',
                'Fight for PS VR2 glory in upcoming Zenith: The Last City PvP mode',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/07445f9ff600597447b1f077955b257196cf8d92.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Our PlayStation VR2 MMORPG, Zenith: The Last City, has its next major content patch – Skyward Summit – on the horizon, and with that we are bringing a host of new features to the game.</p>
<p class="">Today, we are thrilled to announce that one of the features we will be introducing is player versus player (PvP) combat! We believe this feature will add a new layer of depth and excitement to Zenith. Players will now have the opportunity to test their skills against each other in a fun and engaging way.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media2.giphy.com/media/nLxA92kFx7jfPNJrLO/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></figure>
<p class="">Challenge yourself with thrilling one-on-one and team duels that will test your skills and push you to the limit. With our unique class system, including the brand new Cyber Ninja class, you can explore an endless variety of playstyles and strategies. While we are exploring additional options for PvP in future patches, Skyward Summit’s PvP will primarily focus on the implementation of one-on-one and team duels.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media2.giphy.com/media/Lc6Wg713T1M4DbtIma/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></figure>
<p class="">We believe that the addition of PvP in Zenith is a significant update that opens up new gameplay opportunities for players. We’re excited to see how players will explore new tactics, test their strategies, and learn from their opponents. We’re confident that PvP will provide a thrilling and engaging experience for our players.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media2.giphy.com/media/k43m3KmyFHJN34xe3P/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></figure>
<p class="">Alongside the highly anticipated PvP mode, we’re excited to introduce the brand new Cyber Ninja class and a host of other thrilling additions. From player housing to resource harvesting and crafting, this patch has it all. We can’t wait for you to explore these exciting new systems and discover everything Skyward Summit has to offer.</p>
<p class="">Mark your calendars – the Skyward Summit patch is projected for release in Q2 2023. Stay tuned for more information and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/12/the-elder-scrolls-online-necrom-chapter-gameplay-revealed/',
                'The Elder Scrolls Online – Necrom chapter gameplay revealed',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/2e6b88a0b3d16d158105d45e06ae5d703ff62dd1.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">During the Necrom<em> </em>Chapter Preview livestream, the Elder Scrolls Online team showcased the upcoming chapter’s (arriving June 20 for PlayStation) new features and gameplay, including the Arcanist class, new group challenges, and a part of Apocrypha never seen before in an Elder Scrolls game. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Master the arcane</h2>
<p class="">When it came to the Arcanist, ESO’s first new class in four years, the team saw an opportunity to integrate it and its mechanics into Necrom<em>’</em>s setting and themes. As a result, the Arcanist draws power from Apocrypha itself, and the team relished the opportunity to combine elements of Hermaeus Mora’s realm into almost every aspect of the way the class looks, feels, and plays. </p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
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<p class="">The Arcanist utilizes three unique Skill Lines, each supporting a different playstyle: Herald of the Tome (damage), Curative Runeforms (healing/support), and Soldier of Apocrypha (tanking). You’re never locked into any one Skill Line, and you can mix your abilities with any others that are already available.  </p>
<p class="">The team also discussed the Arcanist’s all-new mechanic, the Crux System. When in combat, select Arcanist abilities generate a new resource called Crux, while others spend any saved Crux to receive a buff. If you seek to master this new class, you must learn how you utilize both your Crux-generating and spending abilities effectively. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Explore a new aspect of Apocrypha </h2>
<p class="">In the Necrom<em> </em>Chapter, you can explore the realm of Apocrypha, an endless library containing unknown volumes of knowledge. Be warned—many seek to understand Apocrypha’s hidden secrets, but Mora’s realm also contains a terrifying host of dangers for those who come unprepared. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797883212_d1262d4342_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797883212_d1262d4342_4k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">The team also revealed an all-new aspect of Apocrypha not seen in the<em> </em>Elder Scrolls series before now: Chroma Incognito. A roiling landscape of mind-bending color, Chroma Incognito is a world shaped by what never came to pass—a realm of possibility rejected by cruel fate that stands in vivid contrast to the rest of Apocrypha. </p>
<p class="">This distinct biome was an opportunity for the team to create something brand-new for Elder Scrolls fans while expanding upon the Prince of Knowledge’s domain. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797883162_291cd378bc_3k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797883162_291cd378bc_3k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Chroma Incognito, of course, is packed full of adventure and danger, including unique quests, delves, group bosses, and a public dungeon—all ready to be explored! </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Overcome new challenges</h2>
<p class="">During the preview, the team also had the opportunity to break down some of Necrom’s new group challenges. </p>
<p class="">Bastion Nymic is an all-new world event, specific to the chapter, that sees you and up to three allies enter one of Hermaeus Mora’s strongholds to reclaim it from invaders. The fortress safeguards countless names of power, and should that knowledge fall into the wrong hands, it could spell doom for Apocrypha and Nirn alike. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798842185_3028ccd114_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798842185_3028ccd114_4k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">However, gaining access to the bastion is no simple task, since you need to acquire special items first by defeating the Herald’s Seekers found wandering both the Telvanni Peninsula and Apocrypha. Acquiring enough items allows access to Bastion Nymic, but be aware that a host of malevolent Daedra infest the stronghold, including Mora’s own traitorous forces—good luck!</p>
<p class="">In addition to the new world event, Necrom also introduces a 12-player Trial: Sanity’s Edge. In this PvE group activity, you venture into the mind of a member of the Mages Guild to undo the damage inflicted by his unsanctioned research.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798893918_2ff48f2c13_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52798893918_2ff48f2c13_4k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">As you explore the battleground of this sundered psyche, you discover a host of sinister foes standing in the way, including three uniquely challenging bosses and surprise champions. </p>
<p class="">If you help the mage recover control of his fractured sanity, you receive special Trial rewards, including new item sets and some of the rarest collectibles in the game, such as the Ram of Dark Dreams mount. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Discover Necrom this June</h2>
<p class="">These are only a preview of the new features, adventures, and challenges you can experience in The Elder Scrolls Online: Necrom. If you’d like to learn more, check out the full VOD of the Necrom<em> </em>Chapter Preview. </p>
<p class="">The Elder Scrolls Online: Necrom is part of the Shadow Over Morrowind adventure and arrives on PlayStation consoles June 20. Pre-purchase Necrom now to receive unique bonus rewards at launch.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/13/platformer-multiplayer-and-music-fans-why-sackboy-a-big-adventure-is-a-must-play/',
                'Platformer, multiplayer and music fans: why Sackboy: A Big Adventure is a must-play',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/1c79ae4abcd4a7cad4af983c9381e84312840ebe.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">PlayStation Plus gets a dose of colorful 3D-platforming fun this month in the form of Sackboy: A Big Adventure.</p>
<p class="">Originally released in 2020 and created by Sumo Digital, the UK-based developer tapped into its previous experiences across platformer and multiplayer genres (LittleBigPlanet 3, Team Sonic Racing) to craft a captivating yarn. Levels are imaginative and reward exploration, and occasionally stray into musically-led stages backed by pop hits. Collectibles are many and worth discovering – offering secret pathways and increasingly dazzling costumes to deck out your character. Co-op (up to four players local or online) is joyful in its continuous tandem of cooperative and competitive.</p>
<p class="">To mark its launch on PlayStation Plus, we talked about the game’s origins with XDEV Producer Mark O’Connor. O’Connor shares some early concept sketches and gives his insights into how the core gameplay pillars came to be.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A highly interactive 3D world</h2>
<p class="">“The concept for Sackboy: A Big Adventure started way back in 2017. The original pitch was simple (to say the least): Sackboy: A Big Adventure at its heart was to be a brand-new platforming experience set in Sackboy’s familiar home of Craftworld; complete levels, battle bosses and save the world!</p>
<p class="">“We wanted to reimagine the LittleBigPlanet franchise within a vibrant, (and for the very first time) fully 3D environment, that had that familiar feel of physicality woven into the game’s DNA. Everything is physical, from the gameplay, to the world, through to the UI and beyond.  Advanced real-time physical behaviors create a highly interactive 3D world: cloth stretches and tears, sponges squash and absorb, balloons inflate and burst, fluids ebb and flow.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797100462_8cffe45b7c_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797100462_8cffe45b7c_h.jpg" width="460"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797100382_4526d49895_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52797100382_4526d49895_h.jpg" width="460"/></a></p>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Caption: These early concept sketches show how real world materials influenced the look and feel of the levels and their inhabitants. At the top, a Himalaya-like area built with carved foam and metallic paper, below, an enemy with a cardboard cylinder halo.</em></p>
<p class="">“We wanted to make certain that each level had a unique twist ensuring there’s something new and fresh around every corner. All whilst making sure it was responsive, had accessible controls and took advantage of what the PlayStation 5 had to offer.”</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Levels tailored for both solo and multiplayer…</h2>
<p class="">“The LittleBigPlanet titles were always designed as games that could be played solo or co-op and this is something that we didn’t want to change for Sackboy: A Big Adventure. It was always important to us that Sackboy’s very first 3D platforming adventure could still be played solo or with family and friends, with every player still being able to create and control their very own Sackperson.</p>
<p class="">“So, Sackboy: A Big Adventure was built from the ground up as a four-player co-op adventure with fun, physical character interactions that give players loads of ways to cooperate (and target each other). We wanted to encourage players to join forces to push, pull, slap and roll into objects (and each other).</p>
<p class="">“One great example of this is being able to stack Sackboys and Sackgirls to create a precarious “Sack Totem” and get to hard-to-reach places. These different ways to play make the game truly co-op. Players now have more meaningful interactions and are no longer just running through the same level side-by-side.</p>
<p class="">“Players of all abilities can join in the fun! Simple catch-up mechanics make sure that no one gets left behind. If one player can navigate an obstacle, then everyone can!”</p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">…and enjoyably competitive co-op</h2>
<p class="">“Players of all skill levels can enjoy the adventure together, as we wanted the co-op and competitive mechanics to create a rich social experience.</p>
<p class="">“Playful interactions and scoring mechanics introduce loads of opportunities for friendly competition. Trigger a flash event and be the first to grab the shower of prize bubbles. Slap their hard-earned Collectabells currency out of your friend’s pockets. Score the highest on a level to earn bragging rights and the winner’s trophy at the end of the level.</p>
<p class="">“We decided early on that we wanted to showcase the character customisation options that allow the player to express themselves and make their Sackperson their own… So what better way than adding a photo finish at the end of the level? This way you can bask in the glory and focus on what pose you want to display.</p>
<p class="">“Besides, have you really played a Sackboy game… if you have never slapped or thrown your friends off of some high platform? We know that you all do it!”</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">High-level play with rewards for exploration</h2>
<p class="">“We wanted a level of difficulty which is welcoming to new players and scales as you progress and gain experience.</p>
<p class="">Having desirable unlockables and rewards encourages you to keep on playing. Some are on the general gameplay path, but others you must seek out, which means there are always new areas to explore and new experiences to enjoy with Sackboy and your friends.</p>
<p class="">“These are all brought together within a rich narrative that provides a sense of purpose and gives context to the gameplay.”</p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/W-XU3qhQCPU" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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</div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Music-themed levels</h2>
<p class="">“The franchise has a history of using music in creative ways and we wanted to make sure that a range of music from upcoming, leftfield and world music artists soundtracked the many worlds in Sackboy: A Big Adventure.</p>
<p class="">“However, massive internationally-known pop hits had never really featured before – the challenge was what could we do with these well-known songs that would bring surprise and delight to the players. The answer was to design the levels around the songs – something the team at Sumo did brilliantly.</p>
<p class="">“There were some design considerations – the songs had to ideally run at a set tempo and have contained sections (verse, chorus, bridge etc). We would also look at where each level was set, to see if there might be some appropriate lyrical or thematic content – ‘Jungle Boogie’ in the jungle just made a whole lot of sense!</p>
<p class="">“Ultimately, the designers went to town synchronising the track to events in these levels. Every stage in Sackboy has a different approach to music design, with each track developing over the course of the level. For us, every level is a music level but these stand out as a wonderfully harmonious example.</p>
<p class="has-default-font">“Check out the<a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/2qoYCrao1KeaBlZEs5elwK?si=s5FO86XoRc6O3Yt5-NC8bg"> soundtrack</a> and<a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1fNWs3QMsb6lFWJf3MWDpS?si=576af158f92f46dc"> licensed playlist</a> to put a swing in your step once you’ve played the game!”</p>
<p class=""><em>Sackboy: A Big Adventure is available for PlayStation Plus members now. Find out more</em><a href="https://www.playstation.com/ps-plus/"><em> </em><em>here</em></a><em>.</em></p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/13/firewall-ultra-hands-on-report-first-gameplay-details-on-the-ps-vr2-shooter/',
                'Firewall Ultra hands-on report: first gameplay details on the PS VR2 shooter',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/1131e2c8627f322fa6e09f69816684f7deef4670-scaled.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">PS VR2 owners itching for tense, high-stakes multiplayer gameplay should keep upcoming 4v4 competitive and combative shooter Firewall Ultra on their radar. Developer First Contact Entertainment gave us a first taste of its tactical action in a recent hands-on. First stop: the pre-match safehouse to find our feet and to get to grips with weapon loadouts at its firing range. </p>
<p class="">Each loadout comes stocked with two weapons, two items, running the gauntlet of full assault to support weaponry and all paired with a choice of two items that walk the line between explosive and defensive. These presets will be fully customizable. With multiple clips spent (and weapons reloaded with a button press) we were promptly deployed into a series of three round matches. </p>
<p class="">As with the original Firewall Zero Hour, teamwork is still key, with sides switching defender and attacker roles as matches progress. The core experience is retooled with player feedback from Firewall Zero Hour (dedicated servers, new skills, contractors, maps, weapons and more) and gameplay and visuals are rebuilt thanks to PS VR2 features and a switch from Unreal Engine 4 to Unreal Engine 5. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The eyes have it </h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExYzk0Njk2Mjg2NjI3ZWNlNjI4ZmNjYzU2YTI2MGNiYmNjMjM4ZjUwOCZjdD1n/dmkMBFKcWP9ATNNnzJ/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></figure>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>4v4 competitive matches are still the heart of Firewall. But First Contact has confirmed a PvE mode is also in the works that will be included come launch. More to come on that soon. </em></p>
<p class="">PvP matches now play out as best of three rounds, with the PS5 SSD shifting players from safehouse to match map and back again in a near-blink of an eye. Eye-tracking makes weapon selection from an on-screen wheel swift and grants greater precision to your aim when closing one eye or looking down sights, subtly repositioning your gun to mirror exactly where you’re looking. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52811502737_d262c93cf6_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52811502737_d262c93cf6_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">Flashbangs will blind you if you look at them, but so will flashlights when shone directly in your eyes: in both instances your screen will go all-white for several seconds. Even with your sight restored you’ll briefly have double-vision if your blindness was caused by a flashbang. This, coupled with better hand tracking due to the Sense controller, teases a potentially brilliant strategy: a gun-mounted light’s beam can be hidden by putting your other hand in front of it. Hug a corner and hide your beam until an enemy approaches, then uncover to blind them. Closed eyes or averted gazes are the only deterrent – an inherent risk when bullets can come from any direction. </p>
<p class="">And even if you’re benched in death before your teammates, you’re not out of the game. Perspective switches to a small number of security cameras stationed around the map which you can freely rotate around. Spot an opposing team member and keep your gaze locked on them: you’ll mark them with a red outline until they move out of sight. It’s an outline that can be seen by your team regardless of how many walls or stairwells are between them.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Loadouts for every occasion </h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExYTJlN2JlMTJkZDVjZWNiZmI3MDI3Y2RhMDE1MGYwMDk2MmM4M2U0ZiZjdD1n/Rgcxc6kPob5DxFcOu1/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></figure>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Every weapon has tailored haptic feedback so each feels distinct. A cool little detail (that you may want to check when in the safehouse rather than battle) is in the weapon triggers: the resistance to your virtual finger replicate the real-world analog to the gun you’re holding. </em></p>
<p class="">Sharp eyes and quick wits are necessary skills to win matches in Firewall Ultra, but they’re not the only ones. Teams take turns to either defend or hack intel, and with maps ranging from claustrophobic offices with banks of computer desks and labyrinth like oil rigs, knowing the right balance of loadouts and team deployment are key. Known commodities like grenades, flashbangs are a must in an intense firefight, but carefully placed proximity mines and signal modifiers can turn any area into a trap or blind the opposing side’s tracking devices to keep them guessing. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Keep an ear out </h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media2.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExODkyZTIyM2Y0YzFmYWVkMzg3YmRjMzk2NTA3M2RkNjVlYjNmYjMyOCZjdD1n/7yv8Sksmgw5oTobewy/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></figure>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Contractors will be a mix of returning faces and new characters, each boasting a unique skill. Couple that with an unlockable secondary skill that be equipped as part of your loadout and you’ve extra customization to your firefight approach. </em></p>
<p class="">First Contact is flexing the strength of 3D Audio in Firewall Ultra. More immersive? Of course. But also potentially strategic. Honing in to footfalls helps you place exactly where an enemy is sweeping in from. That goes both ways, however. It grants an eclectic rhythm to rounds, attackers and defenders sneaking along low cover then charging across open ground or piling in as weapons go hot. You’ll need your ear to pick up exactly where a signal jammer is. The small black boxes emitting a tell-tale ping is easy to identify, not so easy to place. With maps dense with detail they can be placed in tight confines. Scouring can be rewarding in itself: Crypto make a return, these rare collectables grabbable on a first come, first serve basis. You can also earn this in-game currency through completing missions, doing well, as well as winning, matches. Collect and cash these in to unlock cosmetics, new guns, attachments for upgrades and new contractors. </p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNjEzZTFjMDdmYjY4ZTZmNDBhOGJiMjE1NmZiZWVmYzExZWIxN2ZjNCZjdD1n/m7ZiHbZJgwCmLUEbCj/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></figure>
<p class=""><br/>Along with those cosmetics and weapon attachments unlocked by players as they progress, First Contact promises a level of post-launch support similar to what the studio rolled out for Firewall Zero Hour. The shape of those things will come into focus in the next few months. But for now, PS VR2 owners can look forward to another round (or three) of tactical action. Bring a friend. Bring three. And make sure they’re all packing quick wits and fast trigger fingers.</p>
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            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/13/immortals-of-aveum-introducing-a-world-of-wizards-and-warfare/',
                'Immortals of Aveum: Introducing a world of wizards and warfare',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/b29c29f318277b349a0445a60a8866aa3f7c78f9.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">The realm of first-person shooters is largely inhabited by games with military and sci-fi themes. In recent years, FPS games with other themes—particularly fantasy—have somewhat fallen by the wayside. Enter Immortals of Aveum, a big, bright, and beautiful techno-fantasy shooter from EA and the San Rafael-based developer Ascendant Studios. Focusing on a single-player campaign in a carefully-crafted, lore-rich world, Immortals of Aveum is looking to give this beloved genre a magic jolt of new life. We had a chance to look at the game and talk to the game’s director, and we’ve come away spellbound.</p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
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<p class="">You may not be familiar with Ascendant Studios, but you’re likely familiar with some of the past games the staff has made. Ascendant CEO and Immortals of Aveum director Bret Robbins has a legacy of work on numerous titles, including the Legacy of Kain series, the original Dead Space, and several Call of Duty titles. It was while developing CoD that the idea of Immortals was birthed: when looking at a level design for CoD, he thought about what the scene would be like in a big, bombastic fantasy setting instead.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A world of fantasy</h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52810781478_2280895e95_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52810781478_2280895e95_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">The world of Aveum features a land torn apart—quite literally—by a millennium-long Everwar for control of magical leylines. As the conflict continues, a bottomless rift called “The Wound” grows ever-larger, with a mysterious, towering statue at its center seemingly staring down on everything. Here, you take control of Jak, an aspiring Immortal who was plucked from life as an orphan in the slums to become a Magnus battle mage. He has the rare ability to wield all three “colors” of magic: A Triarch, as he’s called. With these skills, he battles the forces of the almighty magic forces of Rasharn, a superpower warring for leyline control with Jak’s homeland of Lucium. But what long-buried mysteries and secrets is this Everwar obscuring?</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52809768247_dfb7e1ea2c_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52809768247_dfb7e1ea2c_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">What exactly is an Immortal? Despite the traditional definition, these Immortals do not possess eternal life. It’s a name meant to strike fear in the hearts of foes—after all, who is less afraid of death than a person the concept wouldn’t apply to?</p>
<p class="">“Basically, they’re like the Navy SEALS of our wizard world,” says Robbins. They’re taking on the forces of Rasharn, but human soldiers are far from the only threat they’ll face: Elementals, magically-animated Constructs, and terrifyingly resilient Archons. But some of the most memorable encounters will be battles against other expert spellslingers. According to Robbins, “When you have a wizard-on-wizard battle, that’s when things <em>really</em> get crazy.”</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tools of the Immortals</h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52810782428_11f5ef6516_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52810782428_11f5ef6516_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">The setpieces in Aveum are stunning in visuals and gameplay intensity. You aren’t going to be a back-row wizard slinging spells behind a bigger, buffer unit—you’ll need to get up close and personal with waves of fierce enemies, all eager to maul an enemy Magnus. While the fantasy setting is different from the genre norm, longtime FPS players will find a lot of familiar-feeling skills in Jak’s arsenal of magic. For example:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Breachfire acts similarly to a shotgun.</li><li>Stormshards are rapid-firing homing projectiles.</li><li>Javelins are chargeable projectiles you can hurl at enemies.</li></ul>
<p class="">“The more you get to play with them and see how they work, the more depth, surprises, and fun you’ll find,” says Robbins. “The challenge (in design) was making these spells feel as good, or even better, as shooting a gun.”</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52810329866_c075376fc9_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52810329866_c075376fc9_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Jak also has lots of ways to move around with panache, as Robbins explains. “You can double jump,  hover over enemies, use a Lash spell where you can latch onto anchors in an arena or pull enemies closer, and even teleport dodge.” Jak also has a shield spell for when you need some extra defense. “I didn’t want to make a cover shooter, where you’re hiding and shooting—I want players to feel more powerful, like a gunslinger,” Robbins continues. “You can walk into an arena, really assess it, and own it.”</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The depth of magic</h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52810782688_ab750ee7d2_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52810782688_ab750ee7d2_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Augmenting these magical abilities is an in-depth gear and character enhancement systems. Jak can find or buy Sigils, a crucial focus for his magical power. These Sigils grant stat boosts and buffs and can also alter how certain spells work, effectively changing loadouts. Totems are another piece of magical kit that apply various boosts, though they’re focused more on movement abilities. Magic Rings augment and transform the grenade-like Fury spells. Finally, there are Bracers, gauntlets that boost Jak’s defensive abilities. Combine all this gear with a Talent Tree to power up different magic colors, and you’re looking at a considerable amount of customization.</p>
<p class="">But finding everything will take careful exploration—the stages are packed with secrets, puzzles, and hidden areas, so you’ll want to take time to look around. Robbins was eager to tell us all about Aevum’s hidden treasures. “When you get a new spell, you can return to previous areas and unlock new things. We’ve also got the Shroudfanes: mini-dungeons hidden throughout the game that have specific challenges or unique bosses—they have some of the best gear in the game.”</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52810330081_f7adf95609_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52810330081_f7adf95609_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Ultimately, all of the gameplay and story elements are in service of creating a unique fantasy gaming experience unlike anything else. “I want players to really fall in love with the world,” says Robbins. “We’ve created a great story and a great combat system, all wrapped under the umbrella of Aveum. I truly hope the players will come to enjoy this world and the story and characters we’ve written.”</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52810527179_be7adca395_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52810527179_be7adca395_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="has-default-font">Look forward to becoming the slickest spellcaster around on July 20 when Immortals of Aveum launches on PlayStation 5.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="576" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/57a2b9332c7710d4dfa02408368d9cd09c9c241b-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C1024" width="1024"/></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="576" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/23268f6abc4cf8caba80c0b1ebccf679652d6091-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C1024" width="1024"/></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="576" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/2be27f5ea20c4c30d44303b03ba1894aca250752-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C1024" width="1024"/></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="576" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/b72477d759774364bb9390219576a13ccd219528-scaled.jpg?fit=1024%2C1024" width="1024"/></figure>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/14/mlb-the-show-23-jackie-robinson-day-celebration/',
                'MLB The Show 23 Jackie Robinson Day Celebration',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/6b71b14dfeb29425a2a55f92f6651eeacbecd582.jpg',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Jackie Robinson was the first African American to play in Major League Baseball during the modern era. A true trailblazer in many areas, including sports, media, and the civil rights movement.  </p>
<p class="">Jackie stood for class, the love of the game, and equality. He was a powerful force of positive change that changed the landscape of sports and the world today.   </p>
<p class="">As has been tradition each season since 2004, MLB will celebrate the anniversary of Jackie Robinson’s historic MLB debut as he broke baseball’s color barrier throughout the league on April 15, 1947.</p>
<p class="">In partnership with the Jackie Robinson Foundation, Sony Interactive Entertainment, The Players Association, and Major League Baseball you can purchase the Jackie Robinson Foundation Charity Pack ($4.99 USD, from April 14, 2023 through April 29, only on US digital platform stores where MLB The Show is sold). PlayStation and San Diego Studio will donate 100% of the proceeds* from this pack after store platform fee deductions are applied to the Jackie Robinson Foundation. These donations will continue to support the JRF/PlayStation-MLB The Show Scholars Program to help reduce the achievement gap in higher education. </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52814999397_39e9ffb79f_o.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52814999397_39e9ffb79f_o.jpg" width="34%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815755844_dc6626bab5_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815755844_dc6626bab5_h.jpg" width="60%"/></a></p>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Your purchase of the Jackie Robinson Foundation Charity Pack grants you: 5,000 Stubs, Jackie Robinson Foundation (JRF) bat skins, Jackie Robinson Day profile icon and a Jackie Robinson profile banner icon for use in MLB The Show 23</em></p>
<p class="">Jackie Robinson played a pivotal role in societal change as a champion of racial equality and social justice. In turn, the Jackie Robinson Foundation continues that legacy as one of the best scholarship and leadership development programs for students from underrepresented groups for the past 50 years.  </p>
<p class="">We’re now in our third year of this groundbreaking partnership with the Jackie Robinson Foundation. We’d like to introduce you to our first cohorts of JRF/PlayStation MLB The Show Scholars:</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815969595_ca31c55c39_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815969595_ca31c55c39_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class=""></p>
<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img alt="" height="288" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/1b4cb31ce1f1d1805c502fdf8c9f4a2b72dafa17.jpg" width="288"/></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class=""><strong>Kevin Evans </strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Cedar Hill, Texas</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>University of Texas at Austin</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Computer Science</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Class of 2026</strong></p>
</div></div>
<p class="">Select High School Accomplishments:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Graduated in the top 1% of his class</li><li>Academic Awards – English Literature and Physics</li><li>National Honor Society, President</li><li>Student Council, Vice President</li><li>UT Austin Computer Science Academy – provided C++ coding for use in projects throughout the UT system</li><li>Roblox Studios, Game Programmer – designed and implemented game in LUA language, managed player data</li><li>Mayor’s Teen Council of Cedar Hill, Vice President </li></ul>
<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img alt="" height="286" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/f3e554519e8db83aa541196ba836a968061ccbac.jpg" width="286"/></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class=""><strong>Asim Arnold </strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Dacula, Georgia</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Georgia Institute of Technology</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Computer Engineering   </strong><br/><br/><strong>Class of 2026</strong></p>
</div></div>
<p class="">Select High School Accomplishments:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Graduated with a 4.0 cumulative GPA</li><li>Completed coursework for college credit</li><li>AP Scholar</li><li>National Honor Society</li><li>Future Business Leaders of America</li><li>Donate: Code – provided volunteer computer coding services and instruction </li><li>Amnesty Decoders – assisted Amnesty International researchers by volunteering technology skills for human rights-related research </li></ul>
<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img alt="" height="297" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/9d21dc4df4f4571566ebf361ce56c530e80f29c1.jpg" width="297"/></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class=""><strong>Dominic Bruce-Moore</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong> </strong><strong>Springfield, Massachusetts </strong></p>
<p class=""><strong> </strong><strong>Northeastern University</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong> Communications and Media Studies  </strong><br/><br/> <strong>Class of 2026</strong></p>
</div></div>
<p class="">Select High School Accomplishments:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Graduated in the top 10% of his class with a 3.96 cumulative GPA</li><li>National Honor Society</li><li>Academic Honors – Latin, History, and Music</li><li>Student Council, Vice President</li><li>Student Government Association, Treasurer</li><li>Student Anchors, Peer Tutor</li><li>Sir Golden Ace – created video game content for Twitch gaming platform as well as Youtube</li></ul>
<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img alt="" height="391" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/3261e1087df78b0144f07af58f5e564160f6f552.jpg" width="391"/></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class=""><strong>Collin Jones</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>North Plainfield, New Jersey</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>New Jersey Institute of Technology</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Game and Interactive Media Design   </strong><br/><br/><strong>Class of 2026</strong></p>
</div></div>
<p class="">Select High School Accomplishments:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Graduated with a 3.85 cumulative GPA</li><li>Completed coursework for college credit</li><li>National Honor Society</li><li>National Society of High School Scholars</li><li>Student Council</li><li>Union Catholic High School, Student Ambassador</li><li>Varsity Track &amp; Field </li></ul>
<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img alt="" height="282" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/5e334916b4df5ac71a4373c3aa3150ad554cfa8d.jpg" width="282"/></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class=""><strong>Lance Rodgers</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Oxon Hill, Maryland</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>University of Maryland – College Park</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Computer Engineering   </strong><br/><br/><strong>Class of 2026</strong></p>
</div></div>
<p class="">Select High School Accomplishments:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Graduated in the top of his class with a 4.0 cumulative GPA</li><li>Completed coursework for college credit</li><li>National Honor Society</li><li>Earned honors at school science fair multiple times </li><li>National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) – Junior Chapter, Lead Intern<ul><li>Developed and conducted STEM workshops, led team of six counselors, led workshops and presentations on Roller Coaster Tycoon amusement park simulation game; attended NSBE national conference </li></ul></li></ul>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Varsity Basketball </li><li>Varsity Soccer </li></ul>
<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img alt="" height="296" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/2d0d880c04eea8070237d09528c59edbece0a25e.jpg" width="296"/></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p class=""><strong>Daisha Lafford</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Milwaukee, Wisconsin</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>North Carolina A&amp;T University</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Computer Graphics   </strong><br/><br/><strong>Class of 2026</strong></p>
</div></div>
<p class="">Select High School Accomplishments:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Graduated  first in her class class with a 4.0 cumulative GPA</li><li>National Honor Society</li><li>Academic Decathlon, Team Member – competed in state-level competitions every year</li><li>Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, Advisory Board Member &amp; Co-Chair of Marketing Committee</li><li>First Stage Theater – Young Company, Actor and Summer Intern – earned first place in national Shakespeare competition</li><li>Link Crew, Freshman Mentor</li><li>Varsity Volleyball</li></ul>
<p class="">Exposure and the lack of career readiness programming to the industry is one of the biggest hurdles facing underrepresented talent seeking to join the gaming industry. It’s why our partnership with the Jackie Robinson Foundation is so important. </p>
<p class="">We want to realize the power of education and career opportunities and allow for better economic equality and equity. Bringing more diversity into our communities, our products, and our games. We couldn’t be happier to continue our partnership with the JRF and Jackie’s family as we strive to achieve these goals.  </p>
<p class="">In addition, anyone with MLB The Show 23 and an internet connection can play the Jackie Robinson’s Storyline which sheds more light on Jackie’s illustrious career that started with the Kansas City Monarchs. Upon completion of Jackie’s Storyline, you unlock his Sanford Green Card.  </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815755954_77843b39a2_b.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815755954_77843b39a2_b.jpg" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="">We’ll also be supercharging the Sanford Greene Jackie Robinson card to celebrate Jackie Robinson Day.  </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815560916_0c32b9ecfa_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815560916_0c32b9ecfa_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">MLB The Show 23 is <a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/mlb-the-show/?smcid=ma">available now on PS5 and PS4</a>.</p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>*PlayStation will donate 100% of the proceeds (minimum of $3.49 USD per pack) sold will be donated. To (See console’s online stores for details) the JRF Foundation after store platform fee deductions are applied. This purchase is not tax deductible. </em></p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/14/share-of-the-week-leon-s-kennedy/',
                'Share of the Week: Leon S. Kennedy',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/e7b140913bd53aaaf1765647fd9d127ebc4f40ce.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 eye-catching shots of Resident Evil 4’s dependable hero Leon S. Kennedy using the #PSshare and #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights:</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815558949_943e70def4_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815558949_943e70def4_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/groovy_snake/status/1644799689428959236/photo/2">groovy_snake</a><em> Leon performs a roundhouse kick</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815362866_1fbb0e1b60_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815362866_1fbb0e1b60_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/ujb3310/status/1645433817329725441/photo/2">ujb3310</a><em> </em><em>Leon serves a brooding look while wearing a winter hat</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52814802222_4e9d32b0fd_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52814802222_4e9d32b0fd_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/BLAKERS549/status/1645009237180059648/photo/2">Blakers549</a><em> Leon wears a mafia-inspired suit while holding the Chicago Sweeper</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815559054_2a25717a3a_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815559054_2a25717a3a_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/Leon_REBH/status/1644964989781041152/photo/1">Leon_REBH</a><em> Leon wears an eye patch with a blue jacket on</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815559084_1ab78be120_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815559084_1ab78be120_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/chitochi222/status/1644441074859929603/photo/1">Chitochi222</a> <em>Leon with his gun drawn bathed in red light</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52814802307_355e602f4a_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52814802307_355e602f4a_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/JoeCapri/status/1644646443448430592/photo/1">JoeCapri</a><em> Leon in a red suit of armor holding a rocket launcher</em></p>
<p class="">Search<strong> #PSshare #PSBlog</strong> 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/65535/52814802097_9924bb2eb7_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52814802097_9924bb2eb7_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>THEME: </strong>Sports<br/><strong>SUBMIT BY: </strong>11:59 PM PT on April 19, 2023</p>
<p class="">Next week we’re getting competitive with awesome sports moments. Share moments that capture the essence of playing a sport from the game of your choice with #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/2023/04/18/coffee-talk-blending-fantasy-with-reality/',
                'Coffee Talk: Blending fantasy with reality',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/4c1cf4531b76f92287f92113079e58389fc8b08b.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">In a blindingly fast world, with so much to keep up with, is there a space to escape where everything slows down and we can sip our favorite beverage in peace? That’s what we, Toge Productions, want to serve in our Coffee Talk series, which soon will have its second game in Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus &amp; Butterfly.</p>
<p class="">Before I continue, let me introduce myself! My name is Arya, Toge Productions’ PR &amp; Communications Manager, and I’m here to tell you a story about how Coffee Talk came about. How it connects to you – the players, the importance of its diverse fantastical cast of characters, a little scoop on the ever-mysterious barista, and everything in between.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media2.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNWY5MjEyMWIzZGFiYjRjYjlhOGQwZWI1ZDgxZjVjYmJiNTJjNDc5YSZjdD1n/uOXfSEWC3w5sDmOVhe/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></figure>
<p class="">Coffee Talk’s origins came from an internal game jam of Toge Productions crew, and it was first called Project Green Tea Latte. Andrew Jeremy, our Music Producer, said that the premise was to recreate the calm vibe of a coffee shop into a game, where we could listen to lo-fi music, hear people talking, and just enjoy the atmosphere. Following the positive player reception to the early demo we were convinced of the game’s potential and decided to give it a go.</p>
<p class="">What most people don’t know is that we almost chose other games to develop! A detective game and a shop simulation game… We postponed the detective one because we wanted to take some of Coffee Talk’s mechanics for it, so we decided to go with Coffee Talk first.</p>
<p class="">And the rest, at least for the original Coffee Talk, is history…</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52812987035_663b0d092a_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52812987035_663b0d092a_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">Now let’s talk about the sequel, Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus &amp; Butterfly, shall we?</p>
<p class="">In Hibiscus &amp; Butterfly, we try to create more of the same vibe from its predecessor and progress the story of our beloved characters, but now with a richer narrative and new characters. Our fans wanted a deeper narrative, so we obliged with more branching and impactful storylines. Some branches even have bigger consequences!</p>
<p class="">To accomplish this, we added two great writers to our menu, Junkipatchi and Anna Winterstein. Junki, as the lead writer, focused on the main arc, while Anna expanded the stories of old characters like Hyde, Gala, Bayleys, and others. We really want to create a deeper and more expansive story in this sequel, while not forgetting the chill vibes of Coffee Talk, we have all adored!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52812015967_1c54b94b3d_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52812015967_1c54b94b3d_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">We have two new characters here, Riona and Lucas, who have contrasting personalities. Riona is a banshee who, opposite to her kind’s stereotype (terrifying wails and bad luck), wants to be an opera singer. People on social media bullied her for her aspirations, so she really resents those online platforms. On the other hand, Lucas is a loud, slightly brash, and vivacious satyr-influencer, who may have his own layers that you’ll gradually discover as you play the game. With those personalities, you can imagine the dynamics between them would be interesting!</p>
<p class="">Talking about characters, Hibiscus &amp; Butterfly still has the same diverse cast, with the return of established favorites plus these new faces.  Dio Mahesa, our Lead Artist and Art Director, said that the designs were inspired by his love for D&amp;D creatures like orcs and elves. We chose to create fantasy-inspired characters so we can explore – and ultimately break – the stereotypes that come with them. Then, we pour some real-life problems into the mix to create relatable stories for many of our players.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52812771024_4a2b589d19_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52812771024_4a2b589d19_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">The strength of these diverse fantastical characters, for me personally, is they can relate to a broader audience, as players can see the characters as they are, their personality, without the shell of their race… or species even.</p>
<p class="">And of course, we’ll meet the enigmatic barista again. Who that person is is for you to decide. What we do know, and design, is that the barista is the bond that pulls the characters together, like a neutron in an atom, where the stories and characters circle around. And like a neutron, we designed the barista to be as neutral as possible. The barista is like that because, in Coffee Talk, you are here to listen. So, with that being said, are you ready to enjoy some more Coffee Talk warmth?</p>
<p class="">Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus &amp; Butterfly will land on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 on 20 April 2023.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/19/horizon-forbidden-west-burning-shores-is-out-now-on-ps5/',
                'Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores is out now on PS5',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/8f1a094df88bc4d6c8b7dc05a75c3e49fec392b2.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">We’re thrilled to announce that <a href="https://www.playstation.com//games/horizon-forbidden-west/burning-shores/?smcid=ma">Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores is out today</a>! The expansion sees Aloy pursue a sinister threat in the untamed wilds of a far-future, volcanic Los Angeles wracked by violent tectonic activity.</p>
<p class="">Explore a dangerous new region south of the Tenakth Clan Lands. Among these Burning Shores, you’ll experience a compelling new storyline that picks up Aloy’s journey right from where Horizon Forbidden West left off. You’ll interact with intriguing characters through exciting quests, do battle with never-before-seen machines, and master new weapons, tools, and skills. Along the way, you’ll also collect fresh outfits to aid you in battle and collectable relics that offer you a view into the ancient past.</p>
<p class="">On behalf of the entire team at Guerrilla, we want to thank you for your continued support, and we hope you will enjoy this new chapter in Aloy’s journey!</p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Lbl2wfyAgxY" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</div>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="576" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/2c9e49fa2f1cf5ea56a4d2e336bfcb873b59c0fd.jpg?fit=1024%2C1024" width="1024"/></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="576" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/348ea72d32978a843a0988618e8276977f9e7070.jpg?fit=1024%2C1024" width="1024"/></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="576" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/66892a0d92aa1a9678762c8954c52711bf687fa0.jpg?fit=1024%2C1024" width="1024"/></figure>
</figure>
<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="576" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/9576a2ac32adaf16a8429ec055ca230cbb411d22.jpg?fit=1024%2C1024" width="1024"/></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="576" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/7dedc8b65869bb464595728a45d70c6cf0dc1f9d.jpg?fit=1024%2C1024" width="1024"/></figure>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="576" src="https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/ac09e44e1230d4c85b0e50b147abc1ebd691c31b.jpg?fit=1024%2C1024" width="1024"/></figure>
</figure>
<p class=""><a href="https://www.playstation.com//games/horizon-forbidden-west/burning-shores/?smcid=ma"><em>Learn more about Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores.</em></a></p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/19/vr-skater-debuts-the-mega-ramp-when-it-kickflips-onto-ps-vr2-this-summer/',
                'VR Skater debuts the Mega Ramp when it kickflips onto PS VR2 this summer',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/553d68e2288454a9c9628faea7e55d563add0f0e-scaled.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">VR Skater is a highly immersive street Skateboarding game coming to PlayStation VR2 this Summer! It’s a finely tuned mix of both arcade and simulation. Easy to learn but hard to master, the feeling you get after landing a difficult trick is like no other!</p>
<p class="">Today we’re talking new features, experiences, and everything PlayStation VR2!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52814282957_a6ba16ccea_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52814282957_a6ba16ccea_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">One thing all Skaters need to experience in VR is the Mega Ramp! From a gameplay point of view, the mega ramp allows Players to catch air like never before, pulling off insane flip tricks and huge grabs over the iconic Mega Ramp, made famous by Skateboarding Legend Danny Way. Usually, the key gameplay dynamic of VR Skater is all about street skating. So, as well as being highly impressive and something the community wants, it offers a different gameplay mechanic in this separate immersive experience. Something completely new to the world of VR. </p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExYmQ4YmVlODc1YzZmMmM5YmZhNjBjZTY4MDI1YjI1MmQwM2E5ZDVjZiZjdD1n/x5ETNI4utzpv9GPsIF/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Adaptive triggers</strong></h3>
<p class="">Announced first today on the PlayStation Blog, VR Skater will use the power of the PS VR2 to push immersion further! We plan to use the adaptive triggers to adjust tension when steering in-game. Giving the sensation of resistance you’d feel in a skateboard’s trucks and bushings in real life. VR fans and skaters will love this announcement as we’re trying to replicate even the most minor details of skating.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52814282887_77210f5de8_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52814282887_77210f5de8_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">The controls replicate how tricks would be performed in real life. Swiping and scooping your hands as if they were feet to perform iconic skate tricks like kickflips, tre flips, hardflips, and many more! Feeling intuitive if you’ve ever stepped foot on a skateboard before. To perform grinds and slides, the player will hold buttons to apply rotation and pressure to individual sides of the board, giving players the freedom to skate how they want to. Whether it be tail or nose slides, 50-50 grinds, or many more. You can also work a series of grabs and the finger flip into your combos.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815301213_befa776174_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52815301213_befa776174_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Customization</strong></h3>
<p class="">Skateboarding is a very creative outlet. From the tricks you perform, to the fashion and music embedded in the sport’s history. Customizing your board is an essential part of Skateboarding. Announced first here on the PlayStation blog, players will be able to customize their boards and grip tape using the Print Tablet! Reach a certain XP level and you’ll unlock the Print Tablet, allowing you to upload custom textures, and arrange them however you desire. This is a highly requested feature that we’re stoked to announce today!</p>
<p class="">But how does customization in VR Skater work? Head to the VR Skate shop where you can find all new decks, trucks, wheels, and grip tapes that you physically apply to create your perfect setup. You’ll be able to unlock new coloured decks, trucks, wheels &amp; grip tapes by completing challenges and levelling up in-game. A feature that all skate fans are sure to love.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNTIwZjFlMTE4NjAyZTQzMTE4Nzk2MmQxYTVlYmViZmJkYTExYmQ2YyZjdD1n/uKWDevkkJgv6dOOLKU/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Who are Deficit Games?</strong></h3>
<p class="">Deficit Games is a small indie VR game studio from the Bavarian countryside founded in 2017. Before VR Skater, they released smaller mobile VR titles. Since founder and VR enthusiast Andi has strong roots in the skate and punk rock scene, looking at possible designs for a VR skateboarding game was a very organic decision. Then everything took its course and in 2022 the Early Access version of VR Skater was nominated for the German Games Award in the category of Technology and Innovation.</p>
<p class="">Both Perp Games and Deficit Games can’t wait to release VR Skater into the wild this Summer on PlayStation VR2!</p>
<p class="">You can Wishlist the game now on PlayStation Store. </p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/19/get-your-walkie-talkie-ready-for-oxenfree-ii-lost-signals-launching-july-12/',
                'Get your walkie-talkie ready for Oxenfree II: Lost Signals, launching July 12',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/c9a8b789f22c332a690e15549e299ca2979d5e7e.png?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Hi, I’m Bryant Cannon, the game director for Oxenfree II: Lost Signals, and we’re so excited to finally share that the game will launch on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 on July 12, 2023.</p>
<p class="">If you’re not familiar with Oxenfree II: Lost Signals, then allow me to paint a picture for you. Welcome to Camena: a small coastal town that is currently experiencing unnaturally occurring electromagnetic waves that are interfering with electrical and radio equipment. TVs turn on and off. Planes lose radar. Radio stations can’t broadcast through the static. You know, problems that every quaint town in the Pacific Northwest has to deal with.</p>
<p class="">Enter Riley Poverly, an environmental researcher who begrudgingly returns to her hometown to investigate these frequency signals and ends up taking on more than she bargained for. You, as Riley, will brave rigorous terrain, encounter mysterious cults, and discover strange supernatural phenomena that threaten to alter the world as we know it. How you confront these challenges is up to you, and your choices will shape Riley’s future – as well as the very fate of Camena. </p>
<p class=""></p>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media2.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExZTM5NDYxYmRkOGQ3NzQ2ZjJhNGVjMTBhMjViNzFkOWZjMDM0MGZjMyZjdD1n/TVGdFwVuHKOTJqhlc6/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></figure></div>
<p class="">To take on the tasks at hand, you’ll need the right gear. Riley’s backpack is filled with just that: a radio, which tunes into supernatural frequencies; transmitters, which Riley will need to plant throughout Camena in order to understand more about these radio frequencies; a climbing kit to traverse some of the more treacherous terrain in Camena; and a walkie talkie, which will allow Riley to communicate with a few new characters along the way.</p>
<p class="">Let’s dive more into the walkie-talkie.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hello, do you copy? </h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52817206677_af27f5e9ae_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52817206677_af27f5e9ae_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">Those who played Oxenfree are familiar with its dialogue system and the unique radio mechanic that allowed Alex – the main character of the first game – to communicate with mysterious specters and manipulate her world. ​In Oxenfree II, we wanted to evolve that idea. This new walkie-talkie feature puts the player in charge of when and how Riley will engage in conversations with off-screen characters.</p>
<p class="">So how does it work? Let’s say you’re trekking back from planting a transmitter up at Tootega Falls, and your old high school acquaintance and work partner, Jacob, isn’t feeling too chatty. You can use the left trigger at just about any time to open your walkie-talkie. Browse through the channels until you find who you want to talk to, and voilà!</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">To answer or not to answer, that is the question</h2>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExYjFiNWQyZDljNGEyNTAwMWE2M2FjNzY5ZmZlMGQ0NGViMTY3ZTBhZSZjdD1n/GKtcLlxjDNDHxypjO6/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></figure></div>
<p class="">In Oxenfree II, players will shape the story through Riley’s actions and dialogue choices, similar to how they did with Alex and the characters in the first game. Each decision impacts who Riley becomes, her relationships with other characters, and the story options available at every turn.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52818177690_bb8d2382ba_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52818177690_bb8d2382ba_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Radio and walkie talkie concept art</em></p>
<p class="">The walkie talkie expands on this and opens up a layer of player agency; you can choose to move the story along as you see fit, depending on how you engage with folks on the walkie. Unlike in the first game, where you were faced with dialogue choices with the people in front of you, you now have the option to initiate conversations with walkie contacts at any time. These interactions allow you to uncover useful insights about the mysteries of Camena.</p>
<p class="">Or you can completely ignore them. It has its consequences if you go that route – but it’s your call to make.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Who’s out there?</h2>
<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExZDlhNjExOTY4YzcxZGNmNzI3OTg0YWEyNWM0N2IzZTczOTBjNzk3OSZjdD1n/bYYGmMLm8YMbFSV8P5/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></figure></div>
<p class="">In addition to some of the characters you’ll encounter – like Jacob, and the members of the cult-like group Parentage (more on that another time) – the walkie-talkie introduces more local contacts. If you find yourself stuck at any point in the game, you can pull out the walkie and touch base with one of your contacts.</p>
<p class="">Not only will you learn more about Camena, but also the personal crises they’re currently facing.</p>
<p class="">One of those characters is Maria, the DJ for the student-run radio station at Camena High. When you tune into her radio show, she offers to give advice to listeners on channel eight. If you choose to contact her, she may even ask you for advice, and helping her may change what kinds of music you hear on Camena High Radio.</p>
<p class="">Another character you’ll make contact with (or rather, he’ll contact you) is Nick, a sailor who, in his own words, “has been all up and down the coastline.” If you decide to help Nick with a small favor, he’ll offer valuable insight into the strange occurrences around Camena. You might also need to help him down the road as he grapples with his own supernatural situation. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A coming-of-age story</h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52818177710_c7f55666c9_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52818177710_c7f55666c9_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">In the midst of the supernatural events surrounding them, Riley and her walkie contacts must also confront the seemingly ordinary impact of everyday life and the choices all of us make about who we want to be.</p>
<p class="">Were the life choices Riley made the right ones for her? Is she who she really wants to be?</p>
<p class="">Similar to the teens in the original Oxenfree, your walkie contacts are making pivotal decisions about their lives: Should Maria share a secret that could forever change a friendship? Should Nick take a leap of faith? As Riley, you’ll connect with them on the walkie and talk through it all – personal issues and terrifying ghosts and cults alike. Just like everyday life.</p>
<p class="">We can’t for you all to dive into the happenings in Camena when Oxenfree II: Lost Signals launches on July 12. Pre-orders are now live on <a href="https://store.playstation.com/en-us/concept/10004538/">PlayStation Store</a> for 25% off.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/20/shaping-god-of-war-2018s-climactic-boss-encounter-with-baldur/',
                'Shaping God of War (2018)’s climactic boss encounter with Baldur',
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<p class="">It has been five incredible years since God of War (2018) came out and more since our team at Santa Monica Studio was deep in development on the game. Since then, we’ve released the game’s NG+ mode, next-gen updates, a PC port, and a sequel you might have heard of called God of War Ragnarök. None of this would have been possible without the enduring and enthusiastic support you’ve shown us over the years.</p>
<p class="">To mark the five-year anniversary of God of War (2018), our team wanted to celebrate the occasion with you by taking a deep dive behind the scenes into the creation of the climactic boss fight against Baldur.</p>
<p class="">Big-time spoilers for God of War (2018) ahead!</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Strange(r) Beginnings</strong></h3>
<p class="">The Stranger, later revealed to be Baldur, is the first character you meet after being introduced to Kratos and Atreus. He comes calling with an agenda that immediately puts him at odds with Kratos, where his combat ability and persistence immediately mark him as the most dangerous threat dogging our heroes’ heels throughout their journey.  </p>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Baldur confronts Kratos at his home in Midgard.</em></p>
<p class="">While Kratos and Atreus don’t want to engage with him, Baldur is on a mission that puts them on a collision course across the realms. He is the final boss of the main story, the culmination of the Aesir plot and last test the players must overcome before finally scattering Faye’s ashes from the highest peak in all the realms.</p>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Concept art of Baldur – Artist: Jose Cabrera.</em></p>
<p class="">The conflict comes to a head when Baldur turns his rage towards his mother Freya, as well as Kratos and Atreus, forcing them into the fight of their lives against one of the All-Father’s strongest followers. Bruno Velazquez, Animation Director at Santa Monica Studio, emphasized the goal of the sequence:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-left is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“We knew that the players would expect a big epic finale, so our goal was always to try and push what we had done on the initial Baldur fight and up the stakes in every way.”</p></blockquote>
<p class="">Start to finish, this sequence is one of the most ambitious in the game and combined the efforts of our entire team to pull it off. From extensive cinematics with dramatic confrontations between the characters to a massive boss fight that spanned multiple phases and locations – this climactic finish to the plot’s main conflict was one of the most important moments in the game we had to get right to make sure our players reached Jötunheim with a sense of well-earned satisfaction.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Putting pen to paper</strong></h3>
<p class="">The pressure to make this sequence feel epic and earned after teasing it from the start of the game was high. When it came to laying the groundwork, the first step was writing the story.</p>
<p class="">Matt Sophos, Narrative Director at Santa Monica Studio, spoke on what the team wanted to achieve:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-left is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“The narrative objective was twofold. First, we wanted to convey from both a story and gameplay perspective just how far Kratos and Atreus had come in their relationship. We wanted to show they were working together seamlessly, protecting each other, and fighting as a unit.<br/><br/>The second goal was to put Kratos and Atreus on a collision course with no cut-and-dried ‘good’ outcome. There was going to be a cost to this fight, and the one they chose was one that turned Freya from an ally to an enemy.”</p></blockquote>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Script page from cinematic leading into the final confrontation with Baldur.</em></p>
<p class="">Despite Kratos demonstrating his growth by trying to resolve the situation without fighting, Baldur is unrelenting in his pursuit of Freya’s life. This puts him and Kratos in direct conflict once again, sparking the final showdown between the two.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Giant sense of scale</strong></h3>
<p class="">The fight between Baldur, Kratos, and Atreus shows no signs of stopping despite Freya’s use of Vanir magic to separate them. She turns towards more drastic measures by possessing the corpse of Thamur, the Stone Mason.</p>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Visual exploration of Thamur – Artists: Dela Longfish &amp; Yefim Kligerman.</em></p>
<p class="">During certain parts of the game, this figure has been visible to the player in Midgard – extremely large and perhaps intimidating in his size, but ultimately harmless. The Stone Mason’s presence is meant to evoke a sense of wonder or curiosity in the player, and maybe even a ‘what if’ moment imagining the fight between Thamur and Thor as Mimir describes the very encounter that killed the Giant in one of his stories.</p>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Concept art of Thamur scale reference – Artist: Jose Cabrera.</em></p>
<p class="">The integration of the colossal frozen body in the fight as both a mechanic and a platform across three phases was exactly the type of wild idea that made it worthy of being in the final fight of the story. </p>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Concept art exploring the look of Freya’s magic possessing Thamur.</em></p>
<p class="">Sophos emphasized that when it comes to creating these huge set-piece gameplay moments, they aren’t typically scripted by the Narrative Team from the beginning. In this case, it was Design Team that came up with the idea of using the Stone Mason as part of the fight:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-left is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“Any time we approach boss fights from the narrative side, we’re reticent to write huge checks that other departments have to cash. Whenever you put something down on the page as a writer, you know lots of other team members will have to execute on it, so we try to keep the core narrative small and personal while letting Design tell us how big they want to go.<br/><br/>Freya puppeteering the corpse of Thamur didn’t come from us, but when Design said they wanted to do it and have the fight range all over the place (including on top of him), we giddily said, ‘Hell yeah… we’ll make that work.”</p></blockquote>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Script page from the cinematic where Thamur is possessed by Freya’s magic.</em></p>
<p class="">Larger-than-life boss fights are a hallmark of the God of War series, so the team was no stranger to going big and reaching for something they felt would blow players away. However, one new element introduced in God of War (2018) had a profound impact on how those moments were captured – the camera.</p>
<p class="">The closer placement to Kratos and no-cut technique used throughout the game were essential in achieving the feeling of undergoing an intimate journey with father and son. Whether in cutscenes or combat, you are always close to Kratos, seeing and experiencing what he does.</p>
<p class="">Erol Oksuz, Lead Camera Designer at Santa Monica Studio, discussed how this approach impacted the reveal of the Giant:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-left is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“The credit to selling the scale of Thamur goes to Cinematics, Animation, Art, and Lighting —truly a team effort. In the prior Greek-era games, scale was shown by flying the camera <em>waaaaay</em> out, dwarfing Kratos and the player against creatures and the environment.<br/><br/>However, God of War (2018)’s goal of putting the player and camera on the ground for Kratos and Atreus’ journey created many rules to provide the documentary-inspired experience. Along with ‘no cuts’ was ‘no flying cameras’ — this meant the camera could not simply fly away on its own for extreme long shots. Instead, what replaced it was beautifully crafted choreography that added scale to the experience — the work of those teams still ‘wow’ me.”</p></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-left is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“For example, just after Baldur loses his invulnerability, Freya binds him with vines and whips him by the camera. That slight pan and tilt now sets the player up for a classic God of War moment with a small, silhouetted Freya in the mid-ground and massive Thamur rising in the background.<br/><br/>Freya and the Giant are only alone in-frame for a moment before Kratos and Atreus step back into the foreground to remind the player that they’re right in the middle of it too — no need to have cut or flown the camera to any other position.”</p></blockquote>
<p class="">Velazquez added that the transition sequence where Thamur grabs Kratos and Atreus in his massive hand also required the team to take extra consideration with the camera:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-left is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“One of the hardest challenges was keeping the continuity of the no-cut camera during the part where the Giant grabs Kratos and Atreus and picks them up. We needed to make sure we sold the idea that the hand blotted out all the light and engulfed our heroes without harming them, carrying them across the arena and seamlessly dropped them off somewhere else. This was very challenging from a technical standpoint for sure.”</p></blockquote>
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<p class="">The inclusion of Thamur affected not only the cinematic moments, but also the camera in combat. The team needed to account for how to best telegraph the Giant’s attacks during these sections with the camera position. For example, during the fight, Thamur slams the ground causing a wave AoE to disperse from the impact while the player is engaged with Baldur. Given the close position the camera already has in combat and the hectic nature of the encounter, Oksuz elaborated on the necessity to adapt for the increased scale:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-left is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“The Greek-era games had a camera locked to a general direction, so when a boss would attack, it would pull back to perfectly frame the move as a ‘tell,’ giving the player some time to react. That style of ‘tell’ had to be adapted because players now had full camera control, so we tried to provide as much info the player as possible without affecting their control or focus.”</p></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-left is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“After a few iterations with Animation to get Thamur’s hand as low as possible, we also adjusted the camera to pull back further than usual and widened the lens to provide contrast with the normal, close-fight camera. This also opened screen real-estate to show off the ground below going into shadow while increasing the chance to see the Giant’s hand. With the final audio, a build-up of screen-shake, and controller rumble, there was enough there to communicate that something big was about to happen.”</p></blockquote>
<p class="">The Stone Mason’s involvement in the scene ends when Atreus calls out to Jörmungandr to help them. The World Serpent obliges, resulting in a massive clash as he bites into the Giant and pushes it back, breaking Freya’s spell.</p>
<p class="">According to Velazquez, this was a late addition to the game as the team explored different ways to resolve Thamur’s presence. While Kratos and Atreus were motion-captured, the rest of the entire sequence was hand-animated by the talented Dennis Pena (Sr. Staff Animator), who had to balance keeping our heroes in the shot while capturing all the chaos and action around them.</p>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Animation process on the sequence with Jörmungandr attacking Thamur.</em></p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Clash between Gods</strong></h3>
<p class="">The final encounter with Baldur features one of the most complex combat sequences in the game. With Kratos and Atreus’ full kits accessible, the team wanted players to feel powerful while making use of all the skills they learned throughout the story.  </p>
<p class="">Denny Yeh, Lead Combat Designer, elaborated on the SMS Combat Team’s philosophy:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-left is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“We like to think of end-game fights as a final exam of sorts. Unlike challenge bosses like the Valkyries, which are designed to test pretty much everything, a story boss like Baldur needs to feel more like the greatest hits of mechanics throughout the game. Think of it like a celebration of what you’ve learned, rather than a strict test.”</p></blockquote>
<p class="">Baldur is both the first and last encounter in the game, which posed a unique challenge in that this fight had to feel familiar and but also fresh. The Aesir god has an established, unique fighting style that is quite different from his brethren who all use weapons. Velazquez noted:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“Early on we decided for Baldur to not have a weapon due to the idea that someone that does not feel pain would be more reckless and daring when in combat. He would not need a shield to block or a sword to strike because he would rather use his own body as a weapon.”</p></blockquote>
<p class="">This posed an interesting question for the team, who had to balance introducing new mechanics, while also maintaining consistency with the character that had been established through several fights already experienced by the player. The answer was partly with the integration of the Stone Mason and Freya as participants. These aren’t always just obstacles to be avoided, but also new tools the player can use to their advantage, Yeh explained:  </p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-left is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“Freya herself wasn’t necessarily trying to kill you, more just stop the fight, so a lot of her intervention involved immobilizing you. It just so happens that being immobilized means Baldur can easily punch you in the face!<br/><br/>The cool thing about Freya’s vines is that they can affect both you and Baldur. So, if the player is paying attention, they can dodge it and lure Baldur into it, allowing them to turn the tables.”</p></blockquote>
<p class="">On top of Freya’s magic and the screen-wide attacks from Thamur, the other significant element was, of course, Baldur himself:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-left is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“With end-game story bosses, we like to come up with mechanics to encourage usage of all your tools. From a combat perspective, this is where Baldur’s ability to absorb fire/ice came in. It allowed us to get the player to switch weapons and showcase a bigger variety of all the cool abilities they’ve unlocked up to that point.”</p></blockquote>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Animation process of Baldur’s Elemental Burst.</em></p>
<p class="">Baldur’s ability to imbue his body with fire and ice along with a new suite of moves were all key factors in keeping players on their toes. Taking point on the fight design was Sr. Staff Combat Designer Loren Bordas, who led the way building an encounter that gave players the opportunity to feel like the God of War while utilizing the full breadth of the tools and knowledge available to them.</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-left is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“In addition to the overarching trait of absorbing elements, the element that he’s currently channeling changes the properties of all his attacks. This added a fun new twist to moves that the player had already seen before. He also had additional abilities such as throwing elemental projectiles. In the final phase of the fight, Loren and the team mixed and matched all of these attacks into combo sequences to really keep the pressure up.”</p></blockquote>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Baldur enters his fire phase during the fight.   </em></p>
<p class="">While some bosses can have a more focused gameplay theme, such as the puzzle-solving element in the Hræzlyr fight that requires the player to utilize lightning sap, for an end-game boss like Baldur, Bordas and the team had to ensure the encounter didn’t make the player feel like their power progression was being invalidated by leaning on non-combat gameplay elements. This meant that the Baldur fight needed to have a good variety of phases and behaviors to make it feel like an epic finale. Yeh elaborated:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-left is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“He starts off element-less, allowing you to freestyle with whatever abilities you desire. Then he starts absorbing elements, encouraging you to show off your choice of runic attacks for each weapon.”</p></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-left is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“In later phases, Loren and the team added additional enemies into the mix, allowing players who focus on crowd clearing abilities to shine. And then in the final phase, Baldur swapped between the two elements very frequently, adding the pressure of on-demand weapon switching.”</p></blockquote>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>This time it’s personal</strong></h3>
<p class="">In many of the mid-fight sequences, the two gods clash with their fists, despite Kratos having weapons at his disposal. This was a deliberate choice the team made to emphasize the personal, desperate, and violent nature of the final confrontation between Kratos and Baldur. Velazquez offered additional insight:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“Since Baldur did not wield his own weapon, we decided that Kratos should also sheathe his to have more impact. This was in-line with the overall direction to make the combat a closer, more personal experience due to the camera, as well as the specific direction that these moments between Kratos and Baldur should feel like a brutal struggle. This is also why we chose to have Kratos use hands to end Baldur, it is a far more intimate and visceral moment than if he were using weapons.”</p></blockquote>
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<p class="">As the player, you are drawn close to the action by the camera while Kratos and Baldur trade blow after blow. There are plenty of moments during the fight that are there to make you feel triumphant as Kratos and Atreus work together against the man who came to their home and threatened them without provocation. However, there is also an equally intentional and unavoidable brutality to the encounter that the team included to convey the toll it takes on the characters and the eventual cost of their conflict.  </p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Fighting as one</strong></h3>
<p class="">As Sophos explained, one of the teams’ key goals was to show how close Kratos and Atreus had come over the course of the game, as both a family and fighting unit. As much as the player is intended to feel accomplished and powerful as Kratos during this fight, it is also important for that feeling to extend to Atreus as he demonstrates how far he has come along the way by supporting the player in gameplay and combat moments.</p>
<p class="">This sequence was the chance to show just how much Atreus changed, from an unsure boy who couldn’t shoot a deer to a confident fighter Kratos could rely upon in battle. Velazquez described these moments:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“There are several sequences that sell the team up between Kratos and Atreus well, like Kratos tossing Atreus in the air to fire arrows, as well as when Kratos jumps off the Stone Mason holding Baldur, with Atreus leaping off after them. “</p></blockquote>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Animation process on chisel leap sequence.</em></p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“However, nothing compares to the moment in which the player must press well-timed prompts as Kratos and Atreus take turns pummeling Baldur. It was such a highlight for us to be able to include some of these moments that really make you feel like a cohesive fighting unit as both father and son.”</p></blockquote>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Animation process on Kratos and Atreus team-up sequence.</em></p>
<p class="">Atreus actively supports Kratos during the encounter by dealing out damage and stun to create opportunities to close in on Baldur, but it is during these cutscenes and QTEs where the team really wanted our boy to shine and give a moment for the player to cheer him on.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Performances to remember</strong></h3>
<p class="">As the climax of the game, this sequence had the monumental task of not only delivering a huge combat set piece, but also offering a conclusion to two of the most prominent storylines outside of Kratos and Atreus.</p>
<p class="">Though the scene begins with Kratos and Atreus unsure where Freya’s loyalties lie, as soon as they see Baldur’s hostility towards her, the pair immediately move to defend her as tensions rise. At this point in the game, Freya has saved Atreus’ life and been an integral part of our heroes’ journey.</p>
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Kratos steps forward to intervene between Baldur and Freya.</em></p>
<p class="">Despite knowing all the good she’s done for the pair, Kratos and Atreus’ journey to Helheim shed new light on Baldur’s suffering for the player. We’ve seen first-hand how psychologically scarred his inability to feel has left him. While not excusing his actions, knowing the toll Freya’s spell took on Baldur adds a sorrowful layer of nuance to the encounter that actor Jeremy Davies’ portrayal expertly conveys. Sophos added:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“He brought such pain to a character who—though incapable of feeling the physical kind—is absolutely lost in his anguish and torment. His performance made it hard to hate Baldur since even the worst things he said had an undercurrent of tragedy to them.”</p></blockquote>
<p class="">Another moment of Davies’ exceptional delivery from this scene takes place right after the Mistletoe Arrowhead releases the spell on Baldur, allowing him to feel for the first time in a century. Velazquez discussed the actor’s ability to capture all the emotions running through the character:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“Jeremy did such a fantastic job with Baldur overall but the moment that really stays with me is when the Mistletoe Arrow dispels the spell Freya put on him and he regains the ability to feel once again. He did such a great job of selling that moment and helped the audience have some sympathy for Baldur and his plight.” </p></blockquote>
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<p class="">Another of many standout performances from the closing cinematic of this sequence is Danielle Bisutti’s portrayal of Freya.</p>
<p class="">As the Narrative Team stated in their goals for the final encounter of the game, this was never going to be an ending where everyone walked away happy. It is in large-part due to Bisutti’s heart-wrenching performance as Freya that the repercussions of Kratos’ actions had meaningful weight. Curled over the lifeless body of the son she sacrificed everything to keep safe, Freya’s raging grief as she turned from ally to enemy was embodied perfectly through Bisutti’s portrayal. Sophos added this scene was one of the most impactful he witnessed on stage:</p>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“When Danielle Bisutti (Freya) promises retribution for the killing of her son, and slowly builds in intensity until she’s just spitting bile, hate, and grief at Kratos… it’s one of the most powerful moments I’ve ever been a part of.”  </p></blockquote>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IufvjUoT9e4" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>“You could hear a pin drop on the performance capture stage. We were all just kind of stunned into silence. I knew based on how much of herself Danielle invests in her performance that she was going to go hard, but <em>DAMN</em>…”</p></blockquote>
<p class="">And with that, we hope you’ve enjoyed this look back on the final boss fight in God of War (2018)!</p>
<p class="">On behalf of everyone who played a part in the creation of this game and all the team here at Santa Monica Studio, we cannot express our gratitude enough to our community for all the support given to us over the last five years. We wouldn’t be here without you!</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/20/humanity-available-day-1-as-a-playstation-plus-game-catalog-title-out-may-16/',
                'Humanity available Day 1 as a PlayStation Plus Game Catalog title, out May 16',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/323dd306950309d7a22d544297a39438c4d7d443-scaled.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Move over “International Pickle Day,” May 16 has a new number one claim to fame: it’s the launch day for Humanity! Better yet, it’ll be available on Day 1 as part of the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog’s May lineup, available at no additional cost to PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium members. Whether you own a PS5 or PS4, are a PS VR2 or PS VR or TV-only gamer, want to craft your own levels or just sit back and enjoy some action-platforming and puzzle-strategizing, this year May 16 is going to mean more than just “National Piercing Day.”</p>
<p class="">So…any questions?</p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iM1yO7bcqqk" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What did I just watch?</h2>
<p class="">We wanted to announce Humanity’s launch date with a trailer that truly reflects the game: fun, a bit weird (in a good way) and starring an adorable lil’ shiba inu. Oh, and importantly: clearly, undeniably Japanese.</p>
<p class="">What better way to do that than to recreate the wild – and brilliant – Japanese PlayStation ad campaigns of the original PlayStation and PlayStation 2 era? (If you haven’t seen them, it’s worth a search on YouTube, I promise)</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNDIzMDFkZjMyNDQxZTdjMGQ1YThmZTBlZWJhZDc0MzE4M2JjMWM1MCZjdD1n/QIbeCs0AUZ7JPXAT85/giphy.gif"/></figure>
<p class="">We’ve been incredibly flattered to hear Humanity compared to classics of this era like Intelligent Cube, Echochrome, and Devil Dice (among others), even Katamari Damacy and Parappa the Rapper – all fresh and unique designer-led games out of Japan that broke new ground and did it with <em>style</em>. And whether you’ve played those titles or not, or were even gaming back then, we hope you’ll enjoy that same spirit in Humanity: stylish and different, but with a deeply satisfying experience at the core.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNTQwM2U0MjZiNTJiODYzM2VhYjNlN2IxY2VlYjIxMzk2YmQwYTRlMiZjdD1n/pzYRMh6gHVKlJV3Rbn/giphy.gif"/></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ok, but what type of game is it?</h2>
<p class="">In Humanity, you control that glowing shiba inu, placing commands on the ground for a giant marching horde of people to follow. Make them turn, jump, float through the air, swim, climb, etc., all to reach the goal (or goals) in each stage. The game gradually introduces these mechanics and more, combining them with each other and new elements to ramp up the challenge the further you go. Curious to know more? Be sure to check out <a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2023/02/23/humanity-intriguing-puzzler-gets-new-gameplay-details-and-demo-release-today-as-part-of-state-of-play/">the gameplay trailer we shared during February’s State of Play.</a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">So why the doggo?</h2>
<p class="">Well, I mean, why <em>not</em>? The dev team explored a couple of different interface approaches, from a more simple, generic cursor to having one of the humans take the lead. But considering the relationship between dogs and humans in real life and the story we wanted to tell, it just felt natural. If the humans in the game have lost their own will, mind, and soul, who would they want to follow without questioning it? A dog! When we tried it out, everything clicked.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMjhkNGRlMmFlOWM3MmE2ZTc0OTkzYjBmNmM2ZmY1Yzc3MDY0MzU0NiZjdD1n/5TMTsQFLhZsmLrW7Hi/giphy.gif"/></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What’s the pupper’s name?</h2>
<p class="">It doesn’t have one – the shiba in the game is you! You wake up as a shiba Inu with no memory of what happened before, including your name.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMDY3YmQ2NGJlZGNlZmE5NGYxZDE1NzY0MzM1N2M5MmQ1NDJmZDhmZiZjdD1n/itIy4iFCh7YCvlXuvF/giphy.gif"/></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium?</h2>
<p class="">Of course we want as many folks as possible to enjoy Humanity’s 90-plus stage single-player Story Mode, but the most exciting part of launching into PlayStation Plus Game Catalog is it guarantees a massive audience for our game’s robust user-generated content features: a ton of players will be out there creating, sharing, and playing each other’s custom-built stages, right from day one.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img alt="" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMDE3NDc4NjNlZjcxNGI4M2Y5MTRiMTNhNTZiYTk5YTNiNmQ0NzVjOSZjdD1n/t2PxkxYs8hTceJOqKi/giphy.gif"/></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Whoa, is that a boss fight?</h2>
<p class="">That’s right. Humanity’s Story Mode stages run the gamut along the action-puzzle spectrum, from lean-forward platformer-style “action” levels that will test your reflexes, to lean-back “puzzle” head-scratchers where you might even put the controller down while you think something through – and everything in-between. The game is constantly introducing new mechanics, and mixing and matching them with everything you’ve learned so far to make it feel like you’re always challenged, and never know what’s coming next.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">So what <em>is</em> next?</h2>
<p class="">There’s a lot more Humanity to talk about – the narrative in our single-player Story Mode, our optional VR compatibility (PS VR2 or PS VR), unlockable rewards, details on our super-intuitive Stage Creator, all the crazy-amazing stuff people made and shared in User Stages during our limited-time demo, etc.</p>
<p class="">So keep an eye out for more info and videos in the coming days leading up to May 16, which this year is not just “National Barbeque Day,” but Humani-Tuesday!</p>
<p class=""><a href="https://www.playstation.com/ps-plus/?smcid=mablog"><em>Learn more about PlayStation Plus membership plans.</em></a></p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/20/dominate-the-crash-team-rumble-closed-beta-with-tips-from-devs-live-today/',
                'Dominate the Crash Team Rumble closed beta with tips from devs, live today',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/acc248c3bc20586a6d2b1b0f7053527d3590d69d.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">The key to victory in this 4v4 competitive platformer is strategy. There are strategic advantages throughout the game from gameplay, to hero roles, powers, and more. </p>
<p class="">To celebrate the start of Crash Team Rumble’s Closed Beta – here are some tips and tricks that can give you a leg up on the competition to lead your team victory:</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Boosts are stackable depending on what map you’re on</h2>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Gem pads boost your score, but there is <em>huge</em> boost potential by capturing all of the gem pad clusters on one map. </li><li><strong>Pro Tip: </strong>Be sure you and your team collects and banks as much Wumpa as possible while the boost is active, to fully benefit from the boost. </li></ul>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52828024970_c17dbe9db7_z.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52828024970_c17dbe9db7_z.jpg" width="1920"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Fighting is only a means to an end: scoring is what counts</h2>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The name of the game is scoring – so defense is just as important as offense.</li><li>Victory is a much harder task without a blocker. The blocker’s main goal is to prevent the other team from scoring at their Wumpa bank. How can a team win if they can’t bank their Wumpa?!</li><li><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> The Gasmoxian Guard is a blocker’s best friend. Blocker’s should have their Gasmoxian Guard set up camp at the other team’s Wumpa bank, making it extremely difficult for the other team to score. </li></ul>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52828062213_9b7bfbdffc.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52828062213_9b7bfbdffc.jpg" width="1920"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Relic Stations can swing the match</h2>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>If a game is close, the Relic Station can make all the difference – rolling over enemies, catapulting around a map, and more. </li><li><strong>Pro Tip: </strong>Collect as many relics as possible early to use on epic stations for game changing results later in the match when it becomes more crucial.</li></ul>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNzFjZTE0ZGFkZTNmMmVlMDVjYTI4OGNkM2I1NjM2YTQ5ZjcyNGE4MiZjdD1n/XAPP0IH1AQLYz1llw6/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNzFjZTE0ZGFkZTNmMmVlMDVjYTI4OGNkM2I1NjM2YTQ5ZjcyNGE4MiZjdD1n/XAPP0IH1AQLYz1llw6/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Use the whole map</h2>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Don’t be afraid to explore and see what’s available in all of the corners of the map.</li><li><strong>Pro Tip: </strong>Don’t forget to explore the map vertically. Check out the views from a higher point, you never know, you may find a new way to help your team from a bird’s eye perspective.</li></ul>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52827623426_d5e6e00bf2_z.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52827623426_d5e6e00bf2_z.jpg" width="1920"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Your hero’s powers matter</h2>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Specific powers can take roles to the next level, choose wisely. Some powers are meant to compliment a hero – ie. golden Wumpa for a scorer, Gasmoxian Guard for a blocker, etc.</li><li><strong>Pro Tip: </strong>Placement of a power can make all the difference, be strategic.</li></ul>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/20/welcoming-firewalk-studios-to-the-playstation-studios-family/',
                'Welcoming Firewalk Studios to the PlayStation Studios family',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/e9c24073dc63f0570e2c1281eb634253f08c532b.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">I’m excited to announce that we’ve expanded our relationship with Firewalk Studios and are thrilled to welcome them to PlayStation Studios. Firewalk is home to a remarkably talented team of creatives who have launched some of gaming’s most celebrated experiences, and they’re already hard at work on their first original AAA multiplayer game for PlayStation.</p>
<p class="">Since announcing our publishing partnership with <a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2021/04/22/playstation-and-firewalk-studios-announce-publishing-partnership-for-a-new-original-multiplayer-ip/">ProbablyMonsters and Firewalk in 2021</a>, we continue to be impressed by the team’s ambitions to build a modern multiplayer game that connects players in new and innovative ways. The studio shares our passion for creating inspiring worlds grounded in exceptional gameplay, and we want to continue to invest in their mission. We’re excited for Firewalk to bring their technical and creative expertise to PlayStation Studios to help grow our live service operations and deliver something truly special for gamers. </p>
<p class="">Please join me in welcoming Firewalk! </p>
<hr class="ps-block-separator has-max-width-40"/>
<blockquote class="wp-block-quote ps-author-quote is-style-default has-max-width-75 has-margin-top-65 has-margin-bottom-65 is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p>Every once in a while, you get to have an adventure.<br/><br/>Over five years ago, we jumped at the chance to set up a new studio and build a new IP from the ground up. Recalling our own favorite times with games, we founded Firewalk Studios around the idea of delivering memorable moments – those amazing, had-to-be-there times shared with other people. Our goal is to deliver those shared moments of joy to players around the world.<br/><br/>Building a new studio at scale has been an incredibly exhilarating and relentlessly daunting task. Fortunately, we’ve been supported by great partners throughout – ProbablyMonsters helped turbocharge us in setting up the studio, and Sony has been supporting our project and our creative vision from the beginning.<br/><br/>We’ve assembled some of the most inspired talent in the industry to deliver awe-inspiring new worlds and experiences filled with great core gameplay. The excitement of building something new for players has thoroughly energized the team and our partners, and we’ve been playtesting every day.<br/><br/>Today we’re taking the next natural step and joining PlayStation Studios. We’ve worked closely with Hermen and the very talented team at PlayStation for years, helping to make our new game even better. To join PlayStation Studios is to formally become part of a family that has produced many of the most storied games of our age, and we are honored.<br/><br/>We want to thank everyone who’s supported us along the way and those looking forward to our future. It’s been an incredible journey so far, and we can’t wait for the next chapter in this adventure.</p><cite>– Tony Hsu and Ryan Ellis<br/>Studio Head and Game Director, Firewalk Studios</cite></blockquote>
<hr class="ps-block-separator has-max-width-40"/>
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                'None'
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/20/street-fighter-6-showcase-new-gameplay-details-future-fighters-revealed-and-demo-launched/',
                'Street Fighter 6 Showcase: new gameplay details, future fighters revealed and demo launched',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/5838d57958f5e68e28db74bcd8483ef5a4f61cbb.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832619970_18cd717a0d_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832619970_18cd717a0d_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Prepare those spray cans because we’re painting the streets with a fresh coat of news straight from the Street Fighter 6 Showcase – hosted by Lil Wayne! Our finished piece contains hues of detailed information on World Tour, battles with your customized avatars in Battle Hub, jaw-dropping features to brighten up your Fighting Ground experience, unveiling of the Year 1 Fighters, and a <a href="https://store.playstation.com/en-us/product/UP0102-PPSA07185_00-SF6DEMO000000000">demo you can play today</a>.</p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aSaxoKKGn0k" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A role-playing game around the world</h2>
<p class="">World Tour is a single-player story mode where players can create their own custom avatar to experience an overarching mystery with support from the iconic Masters. The newest location in your travels is Nayshall, a developing nation tucked away in a remote corner of Asia.</p>
<p class=""><strong> <div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qhI4Px3_Q3I" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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</strong></p>
<p class="">Throughout your adventures, you’ll meet each legendary fighter from Street Fighter 6’s roster. Use Flight Tickets to travel around the world to find each of the 18 fighters – some are more hidden than others. Become their student by Enrolling in their style and learn their Special Moves. Increase your bond with each Master by giving them presents and completing Missions. Combine all this to unlock new cutscenes as you form personal connections with these legendary fighters. Put that in your diary!</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832218431_b413e64077_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832218431_b413e64077_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52831647722_4a8924f7b3_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52831647722_4a8924f7b3_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">We built World Tour to redefine the scope of what a traditional fighting game is, so we took extra care in hand-crafting a personal experience by incorporating in-depth RPG elements. You can consume items and food to recover Vitality, provide buffs, or inflict debuffs. As you level up your avatar, you’ll earn Skill Points to spend on a Skill Tree to further customize your original move set.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832619445_669e2c6e6b_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832619445_669e2c6e6b_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832395204_f8681fdbfc_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832395204_f8681fdbfc_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">Watch out for hot-headed enemies who will chase you down on the streets to initiate combat! Unique to World Tour, unlock Drive Stall in the Skill Tree to slow down time to avoid enemies or gain the advantage with a Master Action. During a fight, when the enemy flashes, you can hit them to induce Pressure Time to inflict more damage. Perfect to take out those pesky refrigerators and drones!</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNjQ0MDljNGVlOWUxNWUxMDcwZWJjNTY5MzZiZjU0NDc4Y2Q0N2NjYSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/HxSuEOBPVcv7LEO6Vr/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNjQ0MDljNGVlOWUxNWUxMDcwZWJjNTY5MzZiZjU0NDc4Y2Q0N2NjYSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/HxSuEOBPVcv7LEO6Vr/giphy.gif"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Create Chaos with Avatar Battles and Order with Clubs</h2>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832619990_6e9a64c4a5_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832619990_6e9a64c4a5_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52831647767_066d08ca9b_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52831647767_066d08ca9b_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">You know all those avatars you’re going to make, each with their own customized looks and fighting style? Take them into the Battle Hub and let them loose in custom avatar battles against other players online where the limit to your fights is your own imagination. Use your avatar with Dhalsim’s style, Zangief’s Screw Piledriver, and Ken’s Hadoken or any other wacky combination, which could lead to ridiculous set-ups. Be wary because your opponent might have come up with an even crazier palette of moves. </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExYjY1ZmIzNTIxMmU5MzgzOTc2OWZhYzk1Njg3YWExOWUwZjg2NzYzZSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/ZZRTDVSHLo2EqdFXXC/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExYjY1ZmIzNTIxMmU5MzgzOTc2OWZhYzk1Njg3YWExOWUwZjg2NzYzZSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/ZZRTDVSHLo2EqdFXXC/giphy.gif"/></a></p>
<p class="">If order is more your thing, create a Club in the Battle Hub to find like-minded players. Customize your Club emblem and design a uniform that only your Club’s members can show off.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832664133_f030bff1e8_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832664133_f030bff1e8_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832619750_df5590a40b_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832619750_df5590a40b_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Top-Tier innovation in the Fighting Ground</h2>
<p class="">As a celebration of the Street Fighter series, we’re introducing the Battle Damage Feature! During a fight, characters will get sweatier and develop cuts, bruises, and other telltale signs of a heated battle. This is only available in certain offline modes and can be turned off in Settings.</p>
<p class="">We’re committed to accessibility in Street Fighter 6 and have enhanced sound effects that will tell you how far away you are from your opponent, the height level of attacks, whether an attack is a cross-up, and to also indicate your remaining Drive Gauge.</p>
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<p class="">We also have a multitude of introductory tools for all skill levels. Fleshed-out Tutorials and Character Guides provide a solid foundation for each character, especially for those with little experience in fighting games or anyone that wants to try out new characters. Our third Control Type, to go along with Classic and Modern, is Dynamic, where players can unleash flashy moves with a single press of a button – yes, button mashers are welcome! Once you feel comfortable, you can try tackling Combo Trials, which include combos of varying difficulty.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832664388_9197747681_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832664388_9197747681_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52831647877_98a01bb3ec_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52831647877_98a01bb3ec_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">Arcade Mode is a single-player mode in Fighting Ground where you’ll face off against the CPU and learn more about each fighter’s stories. Complete Arcade Mode for each character to unlock illustrations that can be viewed later in the Gallery. Your scores can also be uploaded to online leaderboards, so get out there and challenge the world. </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832395154_b2f5ec4e72_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832395154_b2f5ec4e72_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832395404_6b232b4743_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832395404_6b232b4743_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">Besides the classic Versus Mode, Street Fighter 6 includes both Team Battle and Extreme Battle. In Team Battle, play with or against other players or the CPU by creating a team and selecting the appropriate parameters. Extreme Battle runs on a set of Rules along with fun Gimmicks like Running Bulls or our own special version of hot potato. Play in Extreme Battle to learn the basics of the game or to unleash pure havoc. </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832395429_bbf06942db_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832395429_bbf06942db_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832619690_a87750314d_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832619690_a87750314d_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">Play online against other players by creating a Custom Room, separate from the Battle Hub. The four virtual cabinets in the room can be set to One on One, Extreme Battle, and Training. Custom Rooms now include up to 16 players at a time!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832663958_9ff9106501_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832663958_9ff9106501_4k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Ranked Matches return where you can fight against other players worldwide and earn League Points to rank up. We’ve taken steps to reduce the fear of losing a match in certain Ranks. First, there’s a one-time Rank-down protection feature for those ranked in Diamond and below. To encourage online play, Rookies will no longer lose League Points upon defeat. Finally, Iron-Gold and Master-ranked players will not incur League demotions. Each character also has their own individual Rank, so trying a new character in a Ranked Match is easier than ever. We hope you take advantage of these features to improve your gameplay! </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832663963_e35193b314_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832663963_e35193b314_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832395259_c4c0eb6362_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832395259_c4c0eb6362_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832619470_987adb23a6_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832619470_987adb23a6_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52831647502_90e382e269_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52831647502_90e382e269_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">*Takes a second to breathe* If you’ve made it this far, you’ll see how much content is in Street Fighter 6. Our development team challenged themselves to create a title all players can enjoy. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Year 1 Characters bring their style</h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832218376_73436f0e96_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832218376_73436f0e96_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Four fighters join the Street Fighter 6 roster in our first year after launch! Rashid, who debuted in Street Fighter V, returns in Summer 2023. The enigmatic A.K.I. struts into the roster in Autumn 2023. Ed, also from Street Fighter V, strikes back in Winter 2024. Finally, the legend, the beast, the transcendent Akuma will rage into Street Fighter 6 in Spring 2024! All four of these characters are incorporated into World Tour where you can learn their Special Moves and increase your bond. They’re also included in the Deluxe and Ultimate Editions of Street Fighter 6, which you can pre-order now!</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Your moment. Your demo.</h2>
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<p class=""><a href="https://store.playstation.com/en-us/product/UP0102-PPSA07185_00-SF6DEMO000000000">Play the demo for Street Fighter 6 today on PlayStation 5</a> and <a href="https://store.playstation.com/en-us/product/UP0102-CUSA33101_00-SF6DEMO000000000">PlayStation 4</a>! Hop in for a tiny peek at what the full game offers. Learn basic battle mechanics from the Tutorial and practice Luke &amp; Ryu’s fighting style in the Character Guide. Dip a toe into the first moments of World Tour and experiment with the deep avatar creation feature. Custom avatars can be transferred over to the full game on the same platform once it releases!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832395349_e45c929237_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52832395349_e45c929237_4k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">If you haven’t already, watch the Street Fighter 6 Showcase to take in the cityscape because it’s almost your time to hit the streets. Street Fighter 6 launches on June 2 for PS5 and PS4! Pre-order now for Outfit 1 Color 10 for Chun-Li, Jamie, Manon, Dee Jay, Juri, and Ken – PlayStation Store pre-order offers an extra bonus of 18 Special Titles and Stickers.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/24/town-sim-meets-action-adventure-in-my-time-at-sandrock-out-this-summer/',
                'Town sim meets action adventure in My Time at Sandrock, out this summer',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/c05ac5e112adde659dbc101ccfd69913e3591aa2-scaled.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">What started out as DLC for My Time at Portia, has become a much larger project now known as My Time at Sandrock. Coming this summer to PlayStation on PS4 and PS5, players will be exploring the town of Sandrock, a city-state located in the Eufaula Desert within the Alliance of Free Cities. Returning players will be satisfied with a fresh but familiar experience, while newcomers will be able to comfortably fall in love with the gameplay and people of Sandrock!</p>
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<p class="">Once players design their character, they will arrive at Sandrock as a recruited builder. Upon arrival, they will find what was once a well populated metropolis is now a dilapidated town where water and wood are scarce resources. The player’s job will now be to collaborate with the townspeople to revitalize the town of Sandrock. Take in the views of the mesas, deep canyons, vast deserts, and breathtaking ruins along the journey!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52830433262_c51e55a924_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52830433262_c51e55a924_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center">Farming is just one of the many activities in Sandrock<br/></p>
<p class="">In order to progress through My Time at Sandrock, players must complete story missions. Story missions require the player character to build or rebuild something that has gone wrong in the town. Some examples are gathering materials to rebuild the water tower or fixing up the stage found outside the Blue Moon Saloon after a sandstorm passes through. Once a story mission is completed, players will find themselves with a few in-game days of free time. During this period, players can complete commissions to earn money, focus on building relationships with people in the town, or just exploring the world!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52831404135_4205eacb42_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52831404135_4205eacb42_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center">With the help of your workshop, saving Sandrock will be no trouble at all</p>
<p class="">The central focus of Sandrock will be found in the workshop, which serves as the player’s primary base of operations. Here, players bring materials and relics from all over the map to assist with accomplishing commissions from local townspeople and government. As players progress and complete commissions, they can upgrade machines in their workshop, customize the space with furniture, and even draw their own designs for decor. These things will help attract more industry to the town and in turn, contribute to the player’s workshop moving toward becoming the #1 workshop in the region!</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52831449523_6c294198ad_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52831449523_6c294198ad_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center">The player battles a Geegler President and Geegler Manager</p>
<p class="">The battle system in My Time at Sandrock is fresh and feels much better this time around. Players will encounter several enemy types from monsters, robots, bandits, and more! Enemies behave intelligently with coordinated attacks, so players must anticipate their movements to successfully counterattack. Watch out for larger enemies, as they can send players flying through the air with one strong hit! Plan attacks with melee weapons or choose a ranged approach.</p>
<p class="">Enemies can be found in the hazardous ruins dungeon type, but there are two other dungeon types to experience as well. One is known as the Abandoned Ruins, which are dungeons without enemies and allows players to mine safely for minerals and relics. The third type is known as the Half-Explored Ruins, which consists of mining areas as well as enemies to fight. Dungeons will unlock as players complete story missions and can be used to gain massive amounts of character EXP and high value materials used for upgrading weapons and equipment.</p>
<p class="">Another standout feature of My Time at Sandrock is the ability for players to pursue romantic relationships with other characters in the game. Players can date, marry, have children, as well as go on a series of in-depth story missions for each character they wish to romance. Pursuing romantic relationships will open up more in-depth plot points, as well as character growth.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52831449348_6a6d46190b_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52831449348_6a6d46190b_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">However, players must balance their building and restoration objectives with the constant threat of attacks from the nefarious Logan and his gang of bandits, which makes their task even more challenging. The game features a deep and compelling storyline with unexpected plot developments that’ll have players asking for one more day.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Message from the developer</h2>
<p class="">“My Time at Sandrock builds upon the beloved gameplay mechanics of My Time at Portia while introducing new features and QOL elements that fans of the series will love,” said Aaron Deng from Pathea Games. “We’re excited for players to experience the unique storyline, characters, and mechanics of My Time at Sandrock, and we encourage everyone to dive in and start rebuilding the desert oasis.”</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/26/may-savings-promotion-comes-to-playstation-store/',
                'May Savings promotion comes to PlayStation Store',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/239135f86ed48a9da152b26cb29661d55188311d-scaled.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">The May Savings promotion comes to PlayStation Store on April 26, bringing with it a vast selection of titles discounted for a limited time*.</p>
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<p class="">That includes the likes of WWE 2K23 Standard Cross-Gen Edition (25% off), EA Sports Madden NFL 23 for PS5 (70% off) and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla PS4 &amp; PS5. (75% off).</p>
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<template data-audience="202360640" data-goal="" data-parent-id="dba04b2b-7ed8-4472-83d4-f5f52fa4e075">
<p class="">That includes the likes of WWE 2K23 Standard Cross-Gen Edition (25% off), NFS 2022 – Deluxe Edition (50% off) and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla PS4 &amp; PS5. (75% off).</p>
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<p class="">You can get a preview of a selection of games that will feature in the promotion below. When the promotion goes live, <a href="https://store.playstation.com/pages/MaySavings?emcid=or-pl-467486">head to PlayStation Store</a> to see the full list and find out your regional discount.</p>
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<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>10 Second Ninja X</li><li>23,000 Source Crystals</li><li>8-Bit Armies</li><li>8-Bit Hordes</li><li>8-Bit Invaders!</li><li>A Fisherman’s Tale</li><li>A Knight’s Quest</li><li>A Plague Tale: Innocence</li><li>Abe’s Exoddus (PS1 Emulation)</li><li>Abe’s Oddysee (PS1 Emulation)</li><li>Absolver</li><li>Action Henk</li><li>Adam’s Venture: Origins – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Adventure Time: Pirates of the Enchiridion</li><li>AereA – Deluxe Edition</li><li>After the Fall</li><li>Aliens: Fireteam Elite Definitive Edition (Cold Iron)</li><li>Aliens: Fireteam Elite Definitive Edition Upgrade (Cold Iron)</li><li>All Legends Pack</li><li>American Fugitive</li><li>Aragami 2</li><li>Arcade Paradise</li><li>Arcade Series: 3-in-1 Pack</li><li>Arizona Sunshine</li><li>Asdivine Hearts</li><li>Asdivine Hearts II</li><li>Assassin’s Creed Valhalla – Complete Edition</li><li>Assassin’s Creed Valhalla PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Assassin’s Creed® Valhalla – Season Pass</li><li>Assault Gunners HD Edition</li><li>Assault Gunners HD Edition – Complete Set</li><li>Assetto Corsa</li><li>Autonauts</li><li>Aven Colony Deluxe Edition</li><li>BALAN WONDERWORLD PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Baldur’s Gate and Baldur’s Gate II: Enhanced Editions</li><li>Bassmaster Fishing: Deluxe Edition</li><li>Batman: Arkham VR</li><li>Batman: Return to Arkham</li><li>Batora: Lost Haven</li><li>Battlefield Hardline</li><li>Battlefield Hardline Ultimate Edition</li><li>Battlefield V</li><li>Bee Simulator</li><li>Beholder – Complete Edition</li><li>Beyond: Two Souls</li><li>Big Buck Hunter Arcade</li><li>Big Crown: Showdown</li><li>Biomutant</li><li>BioShock 2 Remastered</li><li>BioShock Infinite: The Complete Edition</li><li>BioShock Remastered</li><li>Blacktail</li><li>Blade Runner Enhanced Edition</li><li>Blair Witch</li><li>Blair Witch Deluxe Edition</li><li>Blair Witch VR Deluxe Edition</li><li>Blaze and the Monster Machines: Axle City Racers</li><li>Blood Bowl 3</li><li>Bomber Crew: Deluxe Edition</li><li>Borderlands 2 VR</li><li>Borderlands Legendary Collection</li><li>Borderlands: The Handsome Collection</li><li>Brawlhalla – Collector’s Pack</li><li>Brewmaster – Beer Brewing Simulator</li><li>Bright Memory: Infinite （本編）</li><li>Bugsnax PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Bundle_Deluxe Edition</li><li>Bus Simulator 21</li><li>Bus Simulator 21 – Extended Edition</li><li>Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare – Gold Edition</li><li>Call of Duty: Black Ops III – Zombies Chronicles Edition</li><li>Call of Duty: Ghosts – Gold Edition</li><li>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Remastered</li><li>Call of Duty: WWII – Gold Edition</li><li>Call of Duty®: Black Ops Cold War</li><li>Call of Duty®: Black Ops Cold War – Cross-Gen Bundle PS4™ &amp; PS5™</li><li>Call of Duty®: Black Ops Cold War – Standard Edition</li><li>Call of The Sea</li><li>Canis Canem Edit</li><li>Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium Bundle</li><li>Capcom Arcade Stadium Pack 1: Dawn of the Arcade (’84 – ’88)</li><li>Capcom Arcade Stadium Pack 2: Arcade Revolution (’89 – ’92)</li><li>Capcom Arcade Stadium Pack 3: Arcade Evolution (’92 – ’01)</li><li>Capcom Arcade Stadium Packs 1, 2, and 3</li><li>Capcom Beat ‘Em Up Bundle</li><li>Captain Tsubasa: Rise of New Champions – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Car Mechanic Simulator</li><li>Car Mechanic Simulator 2021</li><li>Car Mechanic Simulator VR</li><li>Cars 3: Driven to Win</li><li>Cartoon Network: Battle Crashers</li><li>Cat Quest</li><li>Cat Quest II</li><li>Chef Life – A Restaurant Simulator</li><li>Chenso Club</li><li>Chest of Crowns</li><li>Cities VR</li><li>Clash: Artifacts of Chaos</li><li>Cobra Kai 2: Dojos Rising</li><li>Code Vein – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Commandos 2 – HD Remaster</li><li>Commandos 3 – HD Remaster</li><li>Conan Chop Chop</li><li>Conan Exiles</li><li>Conan Exiles – Year 1 DLC Bundle</li><li>Conan Exiles – Year 2 DLC Bundle</li><li>Conan Exiles: Isle of Siptah</li><li>Construction Simulator</li><li>Construction Simulator 2: Console Edition</li><li>Construction Simulator 3: Console Edition</li><li>Construction Simulator Extended Edition</li><li>Contra: Rogue Corps</li><li>Control: Ultimate Edition</li><li>Crash + Spyro Triple Play Bundle</li><li>Crash Bandicoot Bundle – N. Sane Trilogy + Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled</li><li>Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy</li><li>Crossout – ‘Arsonist’ Pack</li><li>Crossout – ‘Law of the Wasteland’ Pack</li><li>Crossout – Horsemen of Apocalypse: Death</li><li>Crossout – Polymorph Pack</li><li>Crossout – Triad: The Rascal</li><li>Crusader Kings III</li><li>Crysis 2 Remastered</li><li>Crysis 3 Remastered</li><li>Crysis Remastered</li><li>Cultist Edition</li><li>Darksiders Genesis</li><li>Darksiders II – Deathinitive Edition</li><li>Darksiders III – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Darksiders Warmastered Edition</li><li>Dawn of the Monsters</li><li>DC’s Justice League: Cosmic Chaos</li><li>DCL – The Game</li><li>DE – PS5 Standard Edition Takeover</li><li>Dead Cells</li><li>Dead or School</li><li>Dead Rising</li><li>Dead Rising 2</li><li>Dead Rising 2: Off the Record</li><li>Dead Rising 4: Frank’s Big Package</li><li>DEATHLOOP (GAME)</li><li>Deathloop Deluxe Content Pack</li><li>Deceive Inc PS5</li><li>Deceive Inc. Black Tie Edition PS5</li><li>DEEEER Simulator: Your Average Everyday Deer Game</li><li>Defunct – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Deliver Us Mars</li><li>Destroy All Humans 2! – Reprobed: Dressed to Skill Edition</li><li>Destroy All Humans!</li><li>Destroy All Humans! – Jumbo Pack</li><li>Detroit: Become Human</li><li>Devil May Cry 5 Special Edition</li><li>Devil May Cry HD Collection</li><li>Diablo III: Eternal Collection</li><li>Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>DIRT 5 Year One Edition PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Disciples: Liberation PS4</li><li>Disciples: Liberation PS5</li><li>Disgaea 1 Complete</li><li>Disgaea 4 Complete+</li><li>Disgaea 5 Complete Bundle</li><li>Disgaea 5: Alliance of Vengeance</li><li>Dishonored &amp; Prey: The Arkane Collection</li><li>Dishonored®: Death of the Outsider™ – Deluxe Bundle</li><li>Dollhouse – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Don’t Starve Mega Pack 2020</li><li>Don’t Starve Together: Console Edition</li><li>Don’t Starve: Console Edition</li><li>DOOM</li><li>DOOM Eternal: Rip and Tear Pack</li><li>DOOM Eternal: The Ancient Gods – Part One (Add-On)</li><li>DOOM Eternal: The Ancient Gods – Part One (Standalone)</li><li>DOOM Eternal: The Ancient Gods – Part Two (Add-On)</li><li>DOOM Eternal: The Ancient Gods – Part Two (Standalone)</li><li>Dragon Age: Inquisition – Game of the Year Edition</li><li>DreamWorks Spirit Lucky’s Big Adventure</li><li>Dungeons 3 – Complete Collection</li><li>Dying Light 2 Stay Human – Ultimate Edition PS4&amp;PS5</li><li>Dying Light 2 Stay Human – Ultimate Edition PS5</li><li>EA Sports Madden NFL 23 (PS4)</li><li>EA Sports Madden NFL 23 (PS5)</li><li>Earth Defense Force 5 – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Earth Defense Force: Iron Rain – Ultimate Edition</li><li>EARTH DEFENSE FORCE:WORLD BROTHERS Deluxe Edition</li><li>Elea – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Elite Dangerous</li><li>Empire of Sin</li><li>Enlisted “Battle of Berlin”: Offensive Bundle</li><li>Erica</li><li>Euro Fishing</li><li>Euro Fishing: Castle Edition</li><li>Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture</li><li>Evil Genius 2: World Domination</li><li>Evil Genius 2: World Domination Deluxe Edition</li><li>Exit the Gungeon</li><li>F1 Manager 2022</li><li>Fallout 4: Game of the Year Edition</li><li>Far Cry 3 + 4 + 5 + 6 Bundle</li><li>Far Cry 4 – Gold Edition</li><li>Far Cry 6 DLC 04</li><li>FAR: Changing Tides</li><li>Fast &amp; Furious: Spy Racers Rise of SH1FT3R</li><li>FATAL FRAME: Maiden of Black Water Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>FATAL FRAME: Mask of the Lunar Eclipse Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>FF7R EPISODE INTERmission (New Story Content Featuring Yuffie)</li><li>Fighter Pack 1</li><li>Final Fantasy VII Remake</li><li>Final Fantasy VII Remake – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE</li><li>FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Firefighting Simulator – The Squad PS4™ &amp; PS5™</li><li>Fishing Sim World: Bass Pro Shops Edition</li><li>Fishing Sim World: Pro Tour</li><li>Fishing Sim World: Pro Tour + The Catch: Carp &amp; Coarse</li><li>Fishing: Barents Sea – Complete Edition</li><li>Five Nights at Freddy’s VR: Help Wanted</li><li>Five Nights at Freddy’s VR: Help Wanted – Bundle</li><li>For Honor</li><li>For Honor – Marching Fire Edition</li><li>For The King</li><li>Fort Triumph</li><li>Furi</li><li>Furi – Modore Edition</li><li>G.I. Joe: Operation Blackout</li><li>Gauntlet: Slayer Edition</li><li>Gen 9 Season Pass</li><li>Generation Zero ® – Base Warfare Starter Bundle</li><li>Get Even</li><li>Ghost Sync</li><li>Ghosts ‘n Goblins Resurrection</li><li>Ghostwire / DEATHLOOP bundle</li><li>Gigantosaurus: The Game</li><li>God of War – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Golf With Your Friends – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Goosebumps: The Game</li><li>GORN</li><li>GOTY Upgrade Bundle</li><li>Gran Turismo Sport Spec II</li><li>GreedFall – Gold Ed.</li><li>Green Hell</li><li>Hades</li><li>Handball 21</li><li>Hard Reset: Redux</li><li>Haven</li><li>Heavenly Bodies</li><li>Hell Let Loose Anniversary Edition</li><li>Hello Neighbor Bundle</li><li>Hellpoint</li><li>Homefront: The Revolution</li><li>Horizon Zero Dawn: The Frozen Wilds</li><li>Hotline Miami Collection</li><li>Hotshot Racing</li><li>House Builder</li><li>Hue</li><li>Hunt: Showdown – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Hunting Simulator</li><li>Hunting Simulator 2 Bear Hunter Edition</li><li>Hunting Simulator 2 Elite Edition</li><li>Hustle Kings VR</li><li>Indie Collection – SPOM -AMD – CODG</li><li>inFAMOUS First Light</li><li>inFAMOUS Second Son</li><li>Inside</li><li>Insurgency: Sandstorm</li><li>Investigator Pack</li><li>It came from space and ate our brains</li><li>It Takes Two PS4™ &amp; PS5™</li><li>John Wick Hex</li><li>Journey</li><li>Jump Stars</li><li>Jurassic World Evolution</li><li>Just Die Already</li><li>Kaze and The Wild Masks – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Kerbal Space Program – History and Parts Pack</li><li>Kerbal Space Program Enhanced Edition Complete</li><li>Kerbal Space Program: Breaking Ground Expansion</li><li>King’s Edition Content</li><li>King’s Edition Content PS4</li><li>Kingdoms of Amalur: Re-Reckoning</li><li>Klassic MK Movie Skin Pack</li><li>Knack</li><li>LA Cops</li><li>Labyrinth Life: Deluxe Edition</li><li>Lawn Mowing Simulator</li><li>Layers of Fear VR</li><li>LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham</li><li>LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham – Season Pass</li><li>LEGO City Undercover</li><li>LEGO Jurassic World</li><li>LEGO Marvel Super Heroes 2 – Deluxe Edition</li><li>LEGO Marvel’s Avengers Deluxe Edition</li><li>LEGO The Hobbit</li><li>Let’s Sing 2022</li><li>Life is Strange 2 – Complete Season</li><li>Life is Strange: True Colors – Deluxe Edition PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Liftoff: Drone Racing</li><li>Liftoff: Drone Racing Deluxe Edition</li><li>LIMBO</li><li>LIMBO &amp; INSIDE Bundle</li><li>Little League World Series Baseball 2022</li><li>Little Nightmares I &amp; II Bundle PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Little Nightmares II Deluxe Edition PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Lone Survivor: The Director’s Cut</li><li>Lucky’s Tale</li><li>Mad Max</li><li>Manhunt</li><li>Manual Samuel</li><li>Marenian Tavern Story: Patty and the Hungry God</li><li>Martha Is Dead</li><li>Martha Is Dead Digital Deluxe</li><li>Marvel’s Iron Man VR</li><li>Marvel’s Spider-Man – The City That Never Sleeps</li><li>Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy</li><li>Mass Effect: Andromeda – Standard Recruit Edition</li><li>Mass Effect™ Legendary Edition</li><li>Matchpoint – Tennis Championships | Legends Edition</li><li>Max Payne</li><li>Max: The Curse of Brotherhood</li><li>Merciful Madness</li><li>Metal Slug 3</li><li>Metal Slug XX</li><li>Metro 2033 Redux</li><li>Metro Redux</li><li>Metro: Last Light Redux</li><li>Middle-earth: Shadow of War</li><li>Middle-earth: Shadow of War – Expansion Pass</li><li>Middle-earth: Shadow of War – Story Expansion Pass</li><li>Midnight Fight Express</li><li>Mighty Switch Force! Collection</li><li>Milanoir</li><li>Mileena</li><li>Miraculous: Rise of the Sphinx</li><li>Monkey King: Hero is Back – Hero Edition</li><li>Monopoly Madness</li><li>Monster Energy Supercross: The Official Video Game 2</li><li>Monster Energy Supercross: The Official Video Game 2 – Special Edition</li><li>Monster Hunter: World</li><li>Monster Hunter: World – Iceborne Master Edition Digital Deluxe</li><li>Monster Sanctuary</li><li>Moons of Madness</li><li>Mortal Shell</li><li>MotoGP 17</li><li>MotoGP™21</li><li>Motorbike Racing Bundle</li><li>MouseCraft</li><li>Moving Out Deluxe Edition</li><li>MudRunner – American Wilds Edition</li><li>MudRunner – American Wilds Expansion</li><li>Mugsters</li><li>Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden</li><li>Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Mutant Year Zero: Seed of Evil</li><li>MX vs ATV All Out</li><li>MX vs ATV Legends Leader Pack</li><li>MXGP 2021 – The Official Motocross Videogame</li><li>My Fantastic Ranch</li><li>My Friend Pedro</li><li>Neon Abyss Deluxe Edition</li><li>NERF LEGENDS PS5</li><li>Nerf: Legends Digital Deluxe</li><li>NERF: LEGENDS PS4</li><li>Neverwinter Nights: Enhanced Edition</li><li>NEW SUPER LUCKY’S TALE</li><li>NFS 2022 – Deluxe Edition</li><li>NHL 23 Post-Launch X-Factor Edition</li><li>Nickelodeon: All-Star Brawl</li><li>Nova-111</li><li>Octodad: Dadliest Catch</li><li>Oddworld: New ‘n’ Tasty</li><li>Oddworld: Soulstorm</li><li>Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath HD</li><li>Okami HD</li><li>ONE PIECE ODYSSEY</li><li>Onee Chanbara Origin Deluxe Edition</li><li>Orcs Must Die! 3</li><li>Outlast</li><li>Outlast: Bundle of Terror</li><li>Outlast: Whistleblower</li><li>Outlaw Tribe Nemesis Expansion</li><li>OUTRIDERS PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Outward Definitive Edition</li><li>Overcooked!</li><li>Overcooked! 2</li><li>Overpass</li><li>Overruled!</li><li>Paint the Town Red</li><li>Pathologic 2</li><li>Paw Patrol The Movie: Adventure City Calls</li><li>Paw Patrol: On a Roll!</li><li>Penarium</li><li>Peppa Pig: World Adventures</li><li>Phantom Doctrine</li><li>Phoenix Point</li><li>Planescape: Torment and Icewind Dale: Enhanced Editions</li><li>PLANET ALPHA</li><li>Planet Coaster: Deluxe Edition PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Planet Coaster: Premium Edition</li><li>Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville: Deluxe Edition</li><li>Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2</li><li>Police Simulator: Patrol Officers</li><li>Port Royale 4 – Extended Edition</li><li>Portal Knights: Legendary Edition</li><li>Pouch of Crowns</li><li>Prison Architect: PlayStation 4 Edition</li><li>PS4)  Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>PS5 ONLY Marvel’s Midnight Suns Digital + Edition</li><li>PS5) Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Psychonauts</li><li>Psychonauts in the Rhombus of Ruin</li><li>Pumped BMX +</li><li>Pure Farming 2018 – Gomselmash Palesse CS-200</li><li>Pure Farming 2018 – Landini Rex F</li><li>Pure Farming 2018 – Lindner Geotrac 134ep</li><li>R6E Deluxe + R6S Deluxe Bundle</li><li>Rabbids Party of Legends</li><li>RAGE 2</li><li>Raging Justice</li><li>Rainbow Six Extraction Standard Edition</li><li>Rapala Fishing: Pro Series</li><li>Real Farm – Premium Edition</li><li>Red Dead Revolver</li><li>Red Wings: Aces of the Sky</li><li>Resident Evil 7 Gold Edition &amp; Village Gold Edition PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Resident Evil Village Gold Edition PS4</li><li>Resident Evil Village Gold Edition PS5</li><li>Reus – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Ride 2</li><li>Ride 2 Special Edition</li><li>RiMS Racing – European Manufacturers Deluxe Edition</li><li>RiMS Racing – Japanese Manufacturers Deluxe Edition</li><li>Risen</li><li>River City Girls</li><li>Road 96</li><li>Roguebook</li><li>Romancing SaGa 2</li><li>Romancing SaGa 3</li><li>Rubber Bandits</li><li>Rugby 22</li><li>Ruined King: A League of Legends Story™</li><li>Ruinverse</li><li>Ryan’s Rescue Squad</li><li>Sack of Crowns</li><li>Saints Row: The Third Remastered</li><li>Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin</li><li>Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Salt and Sacrifice Standard</li><li>Salt and Sanctuary</li><li>SAMURAI MAIDEN DELUXE EDITION</li><li>Samurai Shodown</li><li>Samurai Shodown – Season Pass 日本/北米/欧州/アジア</li><li>SAMURAI SHODOWN NEOGEO COLLECTION</li><li>SAMURAI SHODOWN SEASON PASS 2 北米/香港/中国用</li><li>SAMURAI SHODOWN SEASON PASS 3</li><li>Samurai Shodown: Deluxe Edition</li><li>Scars Above</li><li>Scribblenauts Showdown</li><li>Season Pass</li><li>Seasons after Fall</li><li>Seek Hearts</li><li>Serial Cleaner</li><li>Session: Skate Sim</li><li>Seven Doors</li><li>SGWC1 Full Arsenal Edition</li><li>SGWC2 COMPLETE EDITION</li><li>SGWC2 SGWC1 BUNDLE</li><li>SGWC2 Ultimate Edition</li><li>Shang Tsung</li><li>Shao Kahn</li><li>Sherlock Holmes Chapter One – Season Pass</li><li>Sherlock Holmes Chapter One Deluxe Edition</li><li>Sherlock Holmes: Crimes and Punishments</li><li>Shiness: The Lightning Kingdom</li><li>Silt</li><li>Slaughter Tribe Nemesis Expansion</li><li>Sleeping Dogs – Definitive Edition</li><li>Small Pouch of Crowns</li><li>Smoke and Sacrifice</li><li>Sniper Elite 4 – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Sniper Elite 5</li><li>Sniper Elite VR</li><li>Sniper Ghost Warrior 3 – Season Pass Edition</li><li>Sniper Ghost Warrior Contracts &amp; Sniper Ghost Warrior 3 Unlimited Edition</li><li>Sniper Ghost Warrior Contracts 2 – Deluxe Arsenal Edition</li><li>SnowRunner – 2 Year Anniversary Edition</li><li>SnowRunner – 3 Year Anniversary Edition</li><li>Sonic Colors: Ultimate</li><li>Space Crew</li><li>Space Hulk Bundle</li><li>Spacebase Startopia – PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Special Edition Content</li><li>Special Edition Content (Unified)</li><li>SpellForce III Reforced</li><li>Spidersaurs</li><li>Spike Volleyball</li><li>Standard Edition</li><li>Star Renegades</li><li>Stealth Inc 2: A Game of Clones</li><li>Stealth Inc: A Clone in the Dark – Ultimate Edition</li><li>Steelrising – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Steep</li><li>Stellaris: Console Edition</li><li>Stikbold! A Dodgeball Adventure</li><li>Stranded Deep</li><li>Strange Brigade – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Street Fighter V</li><li>Street Fighter V: Champion Edition + Season 5 Premium Pass Bundle</li><li>Street Outlaws 2: Winner Takes All (Base Game)</li><li>Street Outlaws 2: Winner Takes All (Digital Deluxe)</li><li>Street Outlaws: The List</li><li>Subnautica: Below Zero PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Sudden Strike 4: Complete Collection</li><li>SUPERHOT – Mind is Software Bundle</li><li>SUPERHOT VR</li><li>SUPERHOT: MIND CONTROL DELETE</li><li>Surviving Mars</li><li>Sword and Fairy 7</li><li>Sword and Fairy 7 Premium Edition (eastasiasoft)</li><li>Syphon Filter (PS1) PS4</li><li>Tales from the Borderlands</li><li>Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition</li><li>Tembo the Badass Elephant</li><li>Temtem</li><li>Tennis World Tour 2</li><li>The Addams Family: Mansion Mayhem</li><li>The Ascent</li><li>The Blade of Galadriel Story Expansion</li><li>The Catch: Carp &amp; Coarse – Deluxe Edition</li><li>The Catch: Carp &amp; Coarse Fishing</li><li>THE COMPLETE SUPERHOT BUNDLE</li><li>The Crew 2 – Season Pass</li><li>The Crew 2 (Full Game – Standard / Trial)</li><li>The Crew 2 Gold Edition (New)</li><li>The Desolation of Mordor Story Expansion</li><li>The Entropy Centre</li><li>The Eternal Cylinder</li><li>The Evil Within</li><li>The Evil Within Season Pass</li><li>The Jackbox Party Pack</li><li>The Jackbox Party Pack 4</li><li>The Jackbox Party Pack 5</li><li>The Jackbox Party Pack 6</li><li>THE KING OF FIGHTERS 2002 UNLIMITED MATCH</li><li>THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV</li><li>THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV DX</li><li>The Last of Us: Left Behind</li><li>The Last of Us: Remastered</li><li>The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel II</li><li>The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III</li><li>The Medium</li><li>The Medium Deluxe Edition</li><li>The Order: 1886</li><li>The Outer Worlds: Spacer’s Choice Edition</li><li>The Park</li><li>The Shadow Warrior Trilogy</li><li>The Surge Bundle</li><li>The Swapper</li><li>The Swindle</li><li>The Walking Dead Onslaught</li><li>The Walking Dead: A New Frontier – Season Pass 1</li><li>The Walking Dead: Michonne – A Telltale Miniseries</li><li>The Walking Dead: Saints &amp; Sinners – Standard Edition</li><li>The Walking Dead: Saints &amp; Sinners Tourist Edition</li><li>The Walking Dead: Season Two</li><li>The Walking Dead: The Complete First Season</li><li>The Walking Dead: The Final Season – Season Pass</li><li>The Walking Dead: The Telltale Definitive Series</li><li>The Warriors</li><li>The Witch and the Hundred Knight 2</li><li>Thief Simulator</li><li>Titan Attacks!</li><li>Titanfall 2: Standard Edition</li><li>Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint: Deluxe Edition 2021</li><li>Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint: Gold Edition</li><li>Totally Reliable Delivery Service</li><li>Tour de France 2022</li><li>Trailmakers: High Seas Expansion</li><li>Train Life – A Railway Simulator PS4</li><li>Train Life – A Railway Simulator PS5</li><li>Train Sim World® 3: Birmingham Starter Pack</li><li>Train Sim World® 3: German Starter Pack</li><li>Train Sim World® 3: Spirit of Steam Starter Pack</li><li>Train Sim World® 3: UK Starter Pack</li><li>Train Sim World® 3: US Starter Pack</li><li>Travis Strikes Again: No More Heroes – Complete Edition</li><li>Tropico 5</li><li>Tropico 6</li><li>Tropico 6 – Next Gen Edition</li><li>Truck Driver: Deluxe Edition</li><li>Turok Bundle</li><li>TY the Tasmanian Tiger HD</li><li>UFC® 4 Deluxe Edition</li><li>Ultimate Edition</li><li>Ultratron</li><li>Unheard – Voices of Crime</li><li>Unpacking</li><li>Unravel</li><li>Unravel Two</li><li>UNSIGHTED</li><li>Until Dawn</li><li>Vampire: The Masquerade – Swansong PRIMOGEN EDITION</li><li>War Thunder – A-10A Thunderbolt Bundle</li><li>War Thunder – A-10A Thunderbolt Pack</li><li>War Thunder – Welded M51 Pack</li><li>War Thunder – Z-19E Pack</li><li>Warhammer 40,000: Inquisitor – Martyr: Imperium Edition</li><li>Warhammer: Chaosbane – Magnus Edition</li><li>Wasteland 3</li><li>Weird West</li><li>Werewolf: The Apocalypse – Earthblood Champion of Gaia</li><li>Wizard of Legend</li><li>Wizards of Brandel</li><li>Wolcen: Lords of Mayhem Deluxe Edition</li><li>Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Wolfenstein: The New Order</li><li>Wolfenstein: The Old Blood</li><li>Wolfenstein: The Two-Pack</li><li>Wolfenstein: Youngblood</li><li>Wolfenstein: Youngblood – Deluxe Edition Upgrade</li><li>World of Warships: Legends – Arkansas Brawler</li><li>World of Warships: Legends – Power of Independence</li><li>World of Warships: Legends – PS5 Arkansas Brawler</li><li>Worshippers of the Necronomicon</li><li>WRC 6 FIA World Rally Championship</li><li>WRC 9 FIA World Rally Championship PS4</li><li>WRC 9 FIA World Rally Championship PS5</li><li>WRC Generations – The FIA WRC Official Game – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Wreckfest – Season Pass 2</li><li>Wuppo – Deluxe Edition</li><li>WWE 2K23</li><li>WWE 2K23 Icon Edition</li><li>WWE 2K23 Standard Cross-Gen Edition</li><li>XCOM 2</li><li>XCOM 2 – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>XCOM 2: War of the Chosen</li><li>Xeodrifter</li><li>Ys: Memories of Celceta</li><li>YS: MEMORIES OF CELCETA DIGITAL DELUXE EDITION</li><li>Zombie Army 4: Dead War</li><li>Zombie Army Trilogy</li><li>Zombieland: Double Tap – Road Trip</li><li>超次元ゲイム ネプテューヌ Sisters vs Sisters</li></ul>
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<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>23,000 Source Crystals</li><li>8-Bit Armies</li><li>8-Bit Hordes</li><li>8-Bit Invaders!</li><li>A Fisherman’s Tale</li><li>A Plague Tale: Innocence</li><li>Abe’s Exoddus (PS1 Emulation)</li><li>Abe’s Oddysee (PS1 Emulation)</li><li>Absolver</li><li>Action Henk</li><li>Adam’s Venture: Origins – Adam Venture Avatar</li><li>Adventure Time: Pirates of the Enchiridion</li><li>After the Fall</li><li>AKIBA’S TRIP: Hellbound &amp; Debriefed</li><li>AKIBA’S TRIP: Hellbound &amp; Debriefed – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>All Legends Pack</li><li>American Fugitive</li><li>Aragami 2</li><li>Arcade Paradise</li><li>Arizona Sunshine</li><li>Asdivine Hearts</li><li>Asdivine Hearts II</li><li>Assassin’s Creed Valhalla – Complete Edition</li><li>Assassin’s Creed Valhalla PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Assassin’s Creed® Valhalla – Season Pass</li><li>Assault Gunners HD Edition</li><li>Assault Gunners HD Edition – Complete Set</li><li>Assetto Corsa</li><li>Attractio</li><li>Aven Colony Deluxe Edition</li><li>BALAN WONDERWORLD PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Baldur’s Gate and Baldur’s Gate II: Enhanced Editions</li><li>Bassmaster Fishing: Deluxe Edition</li><li>Batman: Arkham VR</li><li>Batman: Return to Arkham</li><li>Batora: Lost Haven</li><li>Battlefield Hardline</li><li>Battlefield Hardline Ultimate Edition</li><li>Battlefield V</li><li>Bee Simulator</li><li>Beyond: Two Souls</li><li>Big Buck Hunter Arcade</li><li>Big Crown: Showdown</li><li>Biomutant</li><li>BioShock 2 Remastered</li><li>BioShock Infinite: The Complete Edition</li><li>BioShock Remastered</li><li>Blacktail</li><li>Blade Runner Enhanced Edition</li><li>Blair Witch</li><li>Blair Witch Deluxe Edition</li><li>Blair Witch VR Deluxe Edition</li><li>Blaze and the Monster Machines: Axle City Racers</li><li>Blood Bowl 3</li><li>Borderlands 2 VR</li><li>Borderlands Legendary Collection</li><li>Borderlands: The Handsome Collection</li><li>Brawlhalla – Collector’s Pack</li><li>Brewmaster – Beer Brewing Simulator</li><li>Bright Memory: Infinite （本編）</li><li>Broforce</li><li>Bus Simulator 21</li><li>Bus Simulator 21 – Extended Edition</li><li>Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare – Gold Edition</li><li>Call of Duty: Black Ops III – Zombies Chronicles Edition</li><li>Call of Duty: Ghosts – Gold Edition</li><li>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Remastered</li><li>Call of Duty: WWII – Gold Edition</li><li>Call of Duty®: Black Ops Cold War</li><li>Call of Duty®: Black Ops Cold War – Cross-Gen Bundle PS4™ &amp; PS5™</li><li>Call of Duty®: Black Ops Cold War – Standard Edition</li><li>Call of The Sea</li><li>Canis Canem Edit</li><li>Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium Bundle</li><li>Capcom Arcade Stadium Pack 1: Dawn of the Arcade (’84 – ’88)</li><li>Capcom Arcade Stadium Pack 2: Arcade Revolution (’89 – ’92)</li><li>Capcom Arcade Stadium Pack 3: Arcade Evolution (’92 – ’01)</li><li>Capcom Arcade Stadium Packs 1, 2, and 3</li><li>Captain Tsubasa: Rise of New Champions – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Car Mechanic Simulator 2021</li><li>Car Mechanic Simulator VR</li><li>Cars 3: Driven to Win</li><li>Cartoon Network: Battle Crashers</li><li>Cat Quest</li><li>Cat Quest II</li><li>Chef Life – A Restaurant Simulator</li><li>Chenso Club</li><li>Chest of Crowns</li><li>Cities VR</li><li>Cities: Skylines – Mayor’s Edition</li><li>Clash: Artifacts of Chaos</li><li>Cobra Kai 2: Dojos Rising</li><li>Code Vein – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Commandos 2 – HD Remaster</li><li>Commandos 3 – HD Remaster</li><li>Conan Chop Chop</li><li>Conan Exiles</li><li>Conan Exiles – Year 1 DLC Bundle</li><li>Conan Exiles – Year 2 DLC Bundle</li><li>Conan Exiles: Isle of Siptah</li><li>Construction Simulator</li><li>Construction Simulator 2: Console Edition</li><li>Construction Simulator 3: Console Edition</li><li>Construction Simulator Extended Edition</li><li>Contra: Rogue Corps</li><li>Control: Ultimate Edition</li><li>Corpse Party</li><li>Crash + Spyro Triple Play Bundle</li><li>Crash Bandicoot Bundle – N. Sane Trilogy + Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled</li><li>Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy</li><li>Crossout – ‘Arsonist’ Pack</li><li>Crossout – ‘Law of the Wasteland’ Pack</li><li>Crossout – Horsemen of Apocalypse: Death</li><li>Crossout – Polymorph Pack</li><li>Crossout – Triad: The Rascal</li><li>Crusader Kings III</li><li>Crysis 2 Remastered</li><li>Crysis 3 Remastered</li><li>Crysis Remastered</li><li>Cultist Edition</li><li>Darksiders Genesis</li><li>Darksiders II – Deathinitive Edition</li><li>Darksiders III – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Darksiders Warmastered Edition</li><li>Dawn of the Monsters</li><li>DC’s Justice League: Cosmic Chaos</li><li>DCL – The Game</li><li>DE – PS5 Standard Edition Takeover</li><li>Dead Cells</li><li>Dead or School</li><li>DEADCRAFT</li><li>DEADCRAFT Deluxe Edition</li><li>DEADCRAFT Deluxe Edition PS5</li><li>DEADCRAFT_PS5</li><li>DEATHLOOP (GAME)</li><li>Deathloop Deluxe Content Pack</li><li>Deceive Inc PS5</li><li>Deceive Inc. Black Tie Edition PS5</li><li>DEEEER Simulator: Your Average Everyday Deer Game</li><li>Defunct – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Deliver Us Mars</li><li>Destroy All Humans 2! – Reprobed: Dressed to Skill Edition</li><li>Destroy All Humans!</li><li>Destroy All Humans! – Jumbo Pack</li><li>Detroit: Become Human</li><li>Diablo III: Eternal Collection</li><li>Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>DIRT 5 Year One Edition PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Disciples: Liberation PS4</li><li>Disciples: Liberation PS5</li><li>Disgaea 1 Complete</li><li>Disgaea 4 Complete+</li><li>Disgaea 5 Complete Bundle</li><li>Disgaea 5: Alliance of Vengeance</li><li>Dishonored &amp; Prey: The Arkane Collection</li><li>Dishonored®: Death of the Outsider™ – Deluxe Bundle</li><li>Dollhouse – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Don’t Starve Mega Pack 2020</li><li>Don’t Starve Together: Console Edition</li><li>Don’t Starve: Console Edition</li><li>DOOM</li><li>DOOM Eternal: Rip and Tear Pack</li><li>DOOM Eternal: The Ancient Gods – Part One (Add-On)</li><li>DOOM Eternal: The Ancient Gods – Part One (Standalone)</li><li>DOOM Eternal: The Ancient Gods – Part Two (Add-On)</li><li>DOOM Eternal: The Ancient Gods – Part Two (Standalone)</li><li>Dragon Age: Inquisition – Game of the Year Edition</li><li>DreamWorks Spirit Lucky’s Big Adventure</li><li>Dungeons 3 – Complete Collection</li><li>Dying Light 2 Stay Human – Ultimate Edition PS4&amp;PS5</li><li>Dying Light 2 Stay Human – Ultimate Edition PS4&amp;PS5 LV</li><li>Dying Light 2 Stay Human – Ultimate Edition PS5</li><li>Dying Light 2 Stay Human – Ultimate Edition PS5 LV</li><li>EA Sports Madden NFL 23 (PS4)</li><li>EA Sports Madden NFL 23 (PS5)</li><li>Earth Defense Force 5 – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Earth Defense Force: Iron Rain – Ultimate Edition</li><li>EARTH DEFENSE FORCE:WORLD BROTHERS Deluxe Edition</li><li>Elea – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Elite Dangerous</li><li>Embr</li><li>Empire of Sin</li><li>Erica</li><li>Euro Fishing</li><li>Euro Fishing: Castle Edition</li><li>Euro Fishing: Season Pass</li><li>Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture</li><li>Evil Genius 2: World Domination</li><li>Evil Genius 2: World Domination Deluxe Edition</li><li>Exit the Gungeon</li><li>F1 Manager 2022</li><li>Fallout 4: Game of the Year Edition</li><li>Far Cry 4 – Gold Edition</li><li>Far Cry 6 DLC 04</li><li>FAR: Changing Tides</li><li>Fast &amp; Furious: Spy Racers Rise of SH1FT3R</li><li>FATAL FRAME: Mask of the Lunar Eclipse Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Firefighting Simulator – The Squad PS4™ &amp; PS5™</li><li>Fishing Sim World: Bass Pro Shops Edition</li><li>Fishing Sim World: Pro Tour</li><li>Fishing Sim World: Pro Tour + The Catch: Carp &amp; Coarse</li><li>Fishing: Barents Sea – Complete Edition</li><li>Five Nights at Freddy’s VR: Help Wanted</li><li>Five Nights at Freddy’s VR: Help Wanted – Bundle</li><li>For Honor</li><li>For Honor – Marching Fire Edition</li><li>Fort Triumph</li><li>Furi</li><li>Furi – Modore Edition</li><li>Furi Onnamusha</li><li>G.I. Joe: Operation Blackout</li><li>Gauntlet: Slayer Edition</li><li>Gen 9 Season Pass</li><li>Generation Zero ® – Base Warfare Starter Bundle</li><li>Get Even</li><li>Ghost Sync</li><li>Ghosts ‘n Goblins Resurrection</li><li>Ghostwire / DEATHLOOP bundle</li><li>Gigantosaurus: The Game</li><li>Goat Simulator: The GOATY</li><li>God of War – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Golf With Your Friends – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Goosebumps: The Game</li><li>GORN</li><li>GOTY Upgrade Bundle</li><li>Gran Turismo Sport Spec II</li><li>GreedFall – Gold Ed.</li><li>Green Hell</li><li>Gungrave VR</li><li>Gungrave VR U.N</li><li>Gungrave VR: Loaded Coffin Edition</li><li>Hades</li><li>Handball 21</li><li>Hard Reset: Redux</li><li>Haven</li><li>Heavenly Bodies</li><li>Hell Let Loose Anniversary Edition</li><li>Hello Neighbor Bundle</li><li>Hellpoint</li><li>Heroland</li><li>Homefront: The Revolution</li><li>Horizon Zero Dawn: The Frozen Wilds</li><li>Hotline Miami Collection</li><li>Hotshot Racing</li><li>House Builder</li><li>Hunt: Showdown – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Hunting Simulator 2 Bear Hunter Edition</li><li>Hunting Simulator 2 Elite Edition</li><li>Hustle Kings VR</li><li>Indie Collection – SPOM -AMD – CODG</li><li>inFAMOUS First Light</li><li>inFAMOUS Second Son</li><li>Inside</li><li>Instant Indie Collection: Vol. 1</li><li>Instant Indie Collection: Vol. 2</li><li>Instant Indie Collection: Vol. 3</li><li>Insurgency: Sandstorm</li><li>Investigator Pack</li><li>It came from space and ate our brains</li><li>It Takes Two PS4™ &amp; PS5™</li><li>John Wick Hex</li><li>Journey</li><li>Jurassic World Evolution</li><li>Just Die Already</li><li>Kandagawa Jet Girls</li><li>Kandagawa Jet Girls — Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Kaze and The Wild Masks – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Kerbal Space Program – History and Parts Pack</li><li>Kerbal Space Program Enhanced Edition Complete</li><li>Kerbal Space Program: Breaking Ground Expansion</li><li>King’s Edition Content</li><li>King’s Edition Content PS4</li><li>Kingdoms of Amalur: Re-Reckoning</li><li>Klassic MK Movie Skin Pack</li><li>Knack</li><li>LA Cops</li><li>Labyrinth Life: Deluxe Edition</li><li>Layers of Fear VR</li><li>LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham</li><li>LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham – Season Pass</li><li>LEGO City Undercover</li><li>LEGO Jurassic World</li><li>LEGO Marvel Super Heroes 2 – Deluxe Edition</li><li>LEGO Marvel’s Avengers Deluxe Edition</li><li>LEGO The Hobbit</li><li>Let’s Sing 2022</li><li>Let’s Sing 2022 Hits Français et Internationaux</li><li>Let’s Sing 2022 mit deutschen Hits</li><li>Let’s Sing 2022 Versión Española</li><li>Life is Strange 2 – Complete Season</li><li>Life is Strange: True Colors – Deluxe Edition PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Liftoff: Drone Racing</li><li>Liftoff: Drone Racing Deluxe Edition</li><li>LIMBO</li><li>LIMBO &amp; INSIDE Bundle</li><li>Little League World Series Baseball 2022</li><li>Little Nightmares I &amp; II Bundle PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Little Nightmares II Deluxe Edition PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Lucky’s Tale</li><li>Mad Max</li><li>Manhunt</li><li>Marenian Tavern Story: Patty and the Hungry God</li><li>Martha Is Dead</li><li>Martha Is Dead Digital Deluxe</li><li>Marvel’s Iron Man VR</li><li>Marvel’s Spider-Man – The City That Never Sleeps</li><li>Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy</li><li>Mass Effect: Andromeda – Standard Recruit Edition</li><li>Mass Effect™ Legendary Edition</li><li>Matchpoint – Tennis Championships | Legends Edition</li><li>Max Payne</li><li>Max: The Curse of Brotherhood</li><li>Metal Slug 3</li><li>Metal Slug XX</li><li>Metro 2033 Redux</li><li>Metro Redux</li><li>Metro: Last Light Redux</li><li>Middle-earth: Shadow of War</li><li>Middle-earth: Shadow of War – Expansion Pass</li><li>Middle-earth: Shadow of War – Story Expansion Pass</li><li>Midnight Fight Express</li><li>Mighty Switch Force! Collection</li><li>Milanoir</li><li>Mileena</li><li>Miraculous: Rise of the Sphinx</li><li>Monkey King: Hero Is Back</li><li>Monopoly Madness</li><li>Monster Energy Supercross: The Official Video Game 2</li><li>Monster Energy Supercross: The Official Video Game 2 – Special Edition</li><li>Monster Sanctuary</li><li>Moons of Madness</li><li>Mortal Shell</li><li>MotoGP 17</li><li>MotoGP™21</li><li>Motorbike Racing Bundle</li><li>Moving Out Deluxe Edition</li><li>MudRunner – American Wilds Edition</li><li>MudRunner – American Wilds Expansion</li><li>Mugsters</li><li>Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden</li><li>Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Mutant Year Zero: Seed of Evil</li><li>MX vs ATV All Out</li><li>MX vs ATV Legends Leader Pack</li><li>MXGP: The Official Motocross Videogame</li><li>My Fantastic Ranch</li><li>My Friend Pedro</li><li>Narcos: Rise of the Cartels</li><li>Neon Abyss Deluxe Edition</li><li>NERF LEGENDS PS5</li><li>Nerf: Legends Digital Deluxe</li><li>NERF: LEGENDS PS4</li><li>Neverwinter Nights: Enhanced Edition</li><li>NEW SUPER LUCKY’S TALE</li><li>NFS 2022 – Deluxe Edition</li><li>NHL 23 Post-Launch X-Factor Edition</li><li>Nickelodeon: All-Star Brawl</li><li>Nitroplus Blasterz: Heroines Infinite Duel</li><li>Oddworld: New ‘n’ Tasty</li><li>Oddworld: New ‘n’ Tasty: Complete Edition</li><li>Oddworld: Soulstorm</li><li>Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath HD</li><li>ONE PIECE ODYSSEY</li><li>Onee Chanbara Origin Deluxe Edition</li><li>Orcs Must Die! 3</li><li>Outlast</li><li>Outlast: Whistleblower</li><li>Outlaw Tribe Nemesis Expansion</li><li>OUTRIDERS PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Outward Definitive Edition</li><li>Overcooked!</li><li>Overcooked! 2</li><li>Overpass</li><li>Overruled!</li><li>Paint the Town Red</li><li>Pathogen expansion Pack</li><li>Pathologic 2</li><li>Paw Patrol The Movie: Adventure City Calls</li><li>Paw Patrol: On a Roll!</li><li>Penarium Unlock</li><li>Peppa Pig: World Adventures</li><li>Phantom Doctrine</li><li>Phoenix Point</li><li>Planescape: Torment and Icewind Dale: Enhanced Editions</li><li>PLANET ALPHA</li><li>Planet Coaster: Deluxe Edition PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Planet Coaster: Premium Edition</li><li>Plants vs. Zombies: Battle for Neighborville: Deluxe Edition</li><li>Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2</li><li>Police Simulator: Patrol Officers</li><li>Port Royale 4 – Extended Edition</li><li>Portal Knights: Legendary Edition</li><li>Pouch of Crowns</li><li>Prison Architect: PlayStation 4 Edition</li><li>PROJECT ZERO: MAIDEN OF BLACK WATER Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>PS4)  Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>PS5 ONLY Marvel’s Midnight Suns Digital + Edition</li><li>PS5) Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Psychonauts</li><li>Psychonauts in the Rhombus of Ruin</li><li>Pure Farming 2018 – Germany Map</li><li>Pure Farming 2018 – Gomselmash Palesse CS-200</li><li>Pure Farming 2018 – Landini Rex F</li><li>Pure Farming 2018 – Lindner Geotrac 134ep</li><li>R6E Deluxe + R6S Deluxe Bundle</li><li>Rabbids Party of Legends</li><li>RAGE 2</li><li>Raging Justice</li><li>Rainbow Six Extraction Standard Edition</li><li>Rapala Fishing: Pro Series</li><li>Real Farm</li><li>Real Farm – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Red Dead Revolver</li><li>Red Wings: Aces of the Sky</li><li>Reus – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Ride 2</li><li>Ride 2 – Special Edition</li><li>Risen</li><li>River City Girls</li><li>Road 96</li><li>Roguebook</li><li>Romancing SaGa 2</li><li>Romancing SaGa 3</li><li>Rubber Bandits</li><li>Rugby 22</li><li>Ruined King: A League of Legends Story™</li><li>Ruinverse</li><li>Ryan’s Rescue Squad</li><li>Sack of Crowns</li><li>Saints Row: The Third Remastered</li><li>Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin</li><li>Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Salt and Sacrifice Standard</li><li>Salt and Sanctuary</li><li>SAMURAI MAIDEN DELUXE EDITION</li><li>Samurai Shodown</li><li>Samurai Shodown – Season Pass 日本/北米/欧州/アジア</li><li>SAMURAI SHODOWN NEOGEO COLLECTION</li><li>SAMURAI SHODOWN SEASON PASS 2 欧州/アジア用</li><li>SAMURAI SHODOWN SEASON PASS 3</li><li>Samurai Shodown: Deluxe Edition</li><li>Scars Above</li><li>Scribblenauts Showdown</li><li>Season Pass</li><li>Seasons after Fall</li><li>Seek Hearts</li><li>Session: Skate Sim</li><li>SGWC1 Full Arsenal Edition</li><li>SGWC2 COMPLETE EDITION</li><li>SGWC2 SGWC1 BUNDLE</li><li>SGWC2 Ultimate Edition</li><li>Shang Tsung</li><li>Shao Kahn</li><li>Sherlock Holmes Chapter One – Season Pass</li><li>Sherlock Holmes Chapter One Deluxe Edition</li><li>Sherlock Holmes: Crimes and Punishments</li><li>Shiness: The Lightning Kingdom</li><li>Silt</li><li>Slaughter Tribe Nemesis Expansion</li><li>Sleeping Dogs – Definitive Edition</li><li>Small Pouch of Crowns</li><li>Sniper Elite 4 – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Sniper Elite 5</li><li>Sniper Elite VR</li><li>Sniper Ghost Warrior 3 – Season Pass Edition</li><li>Sniper Ghost Warrior Contracts &amp; Sniper Ghost Warrior 3 Unlimited Edition</li><li>Sniper Ghost Warrior Contracts 2 – Deluxe Arsenal Edition</li><li>SnowRunner – 2 Year Anniversary Edition</li><li>SnowRunner – 3 Year Anniversary Edition</li><li>Sonic Colours: Ultimate</li><li>Space Crew</li><li>Space Hulk Bundle</li><li>Spacebase Startopia – PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Special Edition Content</li><li>Special Edition Content (Unified)</li><li>SpellForce III Reforced</li><li>Spidersaurs</li><li>Spike Volleyball</li><li>Standard Edition</li><li>Star Renegades</li><li>Steelrising – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Steep</li><li>Stellaris: Console Edition</li><li>Stranded Deep</li><li>Strange Brigade – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Street Outlaws 2: Winner Takes All (Base Game)</li><li>Street Outlaws 2: Winner Takes All (Digital Deluxe)</li><li>Street Outlaws: The List</li><li>Subnautica: Below Zero PS4 &amp; PS5</li><li>Sudden Strike 4: Complete Collection</li><li>SUPERHOT – Mind is Software Bundle</li><li>SUPERHOT VR</li><li>SUPERHOT: MIND CONTROL DELETE</li><li>Sword and Fairy 7</li><li>Sword and Fairy 7 Premium Edition (eastasiasoft)</li><li>Tales from the Borderlands</li><li>Temtem</li><li>Tennis World Tour 2</li><li>The Addams Family: Mansion Mayhem</li><li>The Ascent</li><li>The Blade of Galadriel Story Expansion</li><li>The Catch: Carp &amp; Coarse – Deluxe Edition</li><li>The Catch: Carp &amp; Coarse Fishing</li><li>THE COMPLETE SUPERHOT BUNDLE</li><li>The Crew 2 – Season Pass</li><li>The Crew 2 (Full Game – Standard / Trial)</li><li>The Crew 2 Gold Edition (New)</li><li>The Desolation of Mordor Story Expansion</li><li>The Entropy Centre</li><li>The Eternal Cylinder</li><li>The Evil Within</li><li>The Evil Within Season Pass</li><li>The Jackbox Party Pack</li><li>The Jackbox Party Pack 4</li><li>The Jackbox Party Pack 5</li><li>The Jackbox Party Pack 6</li><li>THE KING OF FIGHTERS 2002 UNLIMITED MATCH</li><li>THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV</li><li>THE KING OF FIGHTERS XV DX</li><li>The Last of Us: Left Behind</li><li>The Last of Us: Remastered</li><li>The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel</li><li>The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel II</li><li>The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III</li><li>The Medium</li><li>The Medium Deluxe Edition</li><li>The Order: 1886</li><li>The Outer Worlds: Spacer’s Choice Edition</li><li>The Park</li><li>The Shadow Warrior Trilogy</li><li>The Surge Bundle</li><li>The Walking Dead Onslaught</li><li>The Walking Dead: A New Frontier – Season Pass</li><li>The Walking Dead: Michonne – A Telltale Miniseries</li><li>The Walking Dead: Saints &amp; Sinners – Standard Edition</li><li>The Walking Dead: Saints &amp; Sinners Tourist Edition</li><li>The Walking Dead: Season Two</li><li>The Walking Dead: The Complete First Season</li><li>The Walking Dead: The Final Season – Season Pass</li><li>The Walking Dead: The Telltale Definitive Series</li><li>The Warriors</li><li>The Witch and the Hundred Knight 2</li><li>Thief Simulator</li><li>Titanfall 2: Standard Edition</li><li>Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint: Deluxe Edition 2021</li><li>Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint: Gold Edition</li><li>Totally Reliable Delivery Service</li><li>Tour de France 2022</li><li>Trailmakers: High Seas Expansion</li><li>Train Life – A Railway Simulator PS4</li><li>Train Life – A Railway Simulator PS5</li><li>Train Sim World® 3: Birmingham Starter Pack</li><li>Train Sim World® 3: German Starter Pack</li><li>Train Sim World® 3: Spirit of Steam Starter Pack</li><li>Train Sim World® 3: UK Starter Pack</li><li>Train Sim World® 3: US Starter Pack</li><li>Travis Strikes Again: No More Heroes – Complete Edition</li><li>Tropico 5</li><li>Tropico 6</li><li>Tropico 6 – Next Gen Edition</li><li>Truck Driver + Hidden Places &amp; Damage System DLC Bundle</li><li>Truck Driver: Deluxe Edition</li><li>Turok Bundle</li><li>TY the Tasmanian Tiger HD</li><li>UFC® 4 Deluxe Edition</li><li>Ultimate Edition</li><li>Ultimate Edition Upgrade</li><li>Unheard – Voices of Crime</li><li>Unpacking</li><li>Unravel</li><li>Unravel Two</li><li>UNSIGHTED</li><li>Until Dawn</li><li>Vampire: The Masquerade – Swansong PRIMOGEN EDITION</li><li>War Thunder – A-10A Thunderbolt Bundle</li><li>War Thunder – A-10A Thunderbolt Pack</li><li>War Thunder – Welded M51 Pack</li><li>War Thunder – Z-19E Pack</li><li>Warhammer: Chaosbane – Magnus Edition</li><li>Wasteland 3</li><li>Weird West</li><li>Werewolf: The Apocalypse – Earthblood Champion of Gaia</li><li>Wizard of Legend</li><li>Wizards of Brandel</li><li>Wolcen: Lords of Mayhem Deluxe Edition</li><li>Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>Wolfenstein: The New Order</li><li>Wolfenstein: The Old Blood</li><li>Wolfenstein: Youngblood</li><li>Wolfenstein: Youngblood – Deluxe Edition Upgrade</li><li>World of Warships: Legends – Arkansas Brawler</li><li>World of Warships: Legends – Power of Independence</li><li>World of Warships: Legends – PS5 Arkansas Brawler</li><li>Worshippers of the Necronomicon</li><li>WRC 6 FIA World Rally Championship</li><li>WRC 9 FIA World Rally Championship PS4</li><li>WRC 9 FIA World Rally Championship PS5</li><li>WRC Generations – The FIA WRC Official Game – Deluxe Edition</li><li>Wreckfest – Season Pass 2</li><li>Wreckfest PlayStation®5 Version – Season Pass 1</li><li>Wreckfest PlayStation®5 Version – Season Pass 2</li><li>Wuppo – Deluxe Edition</li><li>WWE 2K23</li><li>WWE 2K23 Icon Edition</li><li>WWE 2K23 Standard Cross-Gen Edition</li><li>XCOM 2</li><li>XCOM 2 – Digital Deluxe Edition</li><li>XCOM 2: War of the Chosen</li><li>Xeodrifter</li><li>Ys: Memories of Celceta</li><li>Ys: Memories of Celceta – Digital Deluxe</li><li>Zombie Army 4: Dead War</li><li>Zombie Army Trilogy</li><li>Zombieland: Double Tap – Road Trip</li></ul>
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<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>*The May Savings promotion runs on PlayStation Store from April 26 at 00.00am local time until May 10 at 23.59pm local time.</em></p>
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                'None'
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/26/gran-turismo-7-update-1-32-going-live-today-with-4-new-cars-two-extra-menus-for-gt-cafe-and-scapes-locations/',
                'Gran Turismo 7 Update 1.32 going live today with 4 new cars, two Extra Menus for GT Café, and Scapes locations',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/4e97b8ea4f291ea270e4b57694243ecbbd0090fa.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Gran Turismo players! The 1.32 update for Gran Turismo 7 arrives today April 26 at 10pm PST* (April 27 at 6am GMT / 2pm JST).</p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/207qSvcv8ak" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<p class=""></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Introduction of 4 new cars</strong></h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835696920_7393fde616_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835696920_7393fde616_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Jaguar XJ220 ’92</strong><br/><strong>A road-going Group C car with breath-taking bodywork.</strong></p>
<p class="">In 1988, Jaguar showed a prototype for their super sportscar at the British International Motor Show, and in 1991 they unveiled the final vehicle at the Tokyo Motor Show in the form of the XJ220. The XJ220 received its name from its maximum speed, which was 220 mph (220 mph), the fastest ever at the time for a commercially available car. Jaguar entrusted production of the XJ220 to Jaguar Sports, a joint venture with TWR. TWR developed the Jaguar Group C car and oversaw its racing team. The prototype engine was a naturally aspirated V12, but the XJ220 that debuted in Tokyo had been given a 3.5 L V6 turbo engine of the XJR11 Group C car. The chassis was a composite aluminum honeycomb and carbon Kevlar, and basically resembles a racing car. An under panel that produces ground effect was added to the bottom of the car and again, mechanically, the XJ220 was like a road-going Group C car. Of course the interior of the car was finished with the finest materials, just like any other of Jaguar’s luxury cars. In 1993, Jaguar entered the XJ220 into the GT class of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Taking the wheel was the team of David Coulthard, David Brabham, and John Nielsen, who safely completed the race and won in its class. One month later, however, the XJ220 was disqualified due to a violation of an exhaust regulation, and their record was stricken from the books. Later, the XJ220 was entrusted to the famous Team Chamberlain racing team, and continued to participate in GT races including the 24 Hours of Le Mans.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835740918_0db729b9c6_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835740918_0db729b9c6_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835289716_b53b10fdad_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835289716_b53b10fdad_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class=""><strong>Mercedes-AMG GT3 ’20</strong><br/><strong>An improved and more cost-effective GT3 machine.</strong></p>
<p class="">The Mercedes-AMG GT3 is based on the Mercedes-AMG GT sports car, itself unveiled to the public at the Paris Motor Show in 2014. This FIA (Federation Internationale de l’Automobile) homologated GT3 race car appeared on the international motorsports scene in 2016. This 2020 update model was unveiled in 2019 with a focus on further reducing its running costs as a customer racing car. Improvements like a longer lifespan on the engine and better protection for the radiator through a redesigned front-end help make the high costs of running a GT3 car more affordable for privateer teams. In addition, the car’s aerodynamics were improved through the addition of a front splitter and winglets, as well as a large wing and diffuser on the rear. The designers have also tried to reduce the car’s weight by using carbon fibre in many of the parts. The lower portion of the front grille has been significantly widened, and the front and rear lights have also been updated. Though it keeps the distinctive design of the previous model, the details on the car have been updated to match the refreshed production model.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835741083_398018d289_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835741083_398018d289_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835289976_7471631c2b_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835289976_7471631c2b_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class=""><strong>Dallara SF23 Super Formula / Toyota ’23</strong><br/><strong>Dallara SF23 Super Formula / Honda ’23</strong><br/><strong>The next evolution of Super Formula cars aims to bring sustainability to motorsports.</strong></p>
<p class="">In spring 2023, Japan’s top formula racing series, Super Formula saw the debut of the new Dallara SF23 Super Formula car. The SF23 uses a number of new technologies from the ‘SUPER FORMULA NEXT 50’ motorsports sustainability project headed by Japan Race Promotion, the organizers of Super Formula. First, the body of the SF23, which is based on the SF19 introduced in 2019, uses bio-composite materials produced by the Bcomp company. This has allowed for a 75% reduction in CO2 emissions from the raw materials and construction processes while keeping the same weight and rigidity characteristics as the previous carbon fiber shell. The racing tires provided by Yokohama Rubber have also been developed for sustainability. The new tires use sustainable materials such as naturally derived polymers and recycled rubbers. And though they use 33% sustainably sourced materials, the tires achieve the same handling characteristics as before. With the Yokohama Carbon Neutral Racing Tires equipped, the car becomes the ideal of a carbon neutral racing machine as outlined in the ‘SUPER FORMULA NEXT 50’ project. To achieve another of the ‘SUPER FORMULA NEXT 50’ goals, increased entertainment value, the aerodynamics of the car have been overhauled as well. This will allow drivers more opportunity to show off their skills in close quarters racing than ever before. For the engines, as before, teams will have the choice between a Toyota or Honda powerplant.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835289931_78d807d6a2_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835289931_78d807d6a2_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835740998_d19c65e0d6_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835740998_d19c65e0d6_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class=""></p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835696900_b9fc452e2e_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835696900_b9fc452e2e_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835741008_b060dc7686_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835741008_b060dc7686_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">World Circuits</h2>
<p class="">Super Formula has been added as a new race to World Circuits. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835696800_1b6d9eacf8_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835696800_1b6d9eacf8_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">GT Café – Two Extra Menus added</h2>
<p class="">–    Extra Menu No. 20: ‘Collection: Shelby’ (Collector Level 41 and above)</p>
<p class="">–    Extra Menu No 21: ‘Collection: Alpine’ (Collector Level 35 and above)</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835696745_cc282e5fc0_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835696745_cc282e5fc0_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835289856_d250193943_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835289856_d250193943_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Scapes</h2>
<p class="">‘North Yorkshire’ and ‘Miyazaki’ have been added to the featured section.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52834718832_5a58dfebb0_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52834718832_5a58dfebb0_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835474799_d18ed6b844_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52835474799_d18ed6b844_h.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>*Internet connection and Gran Turismo 7 game required for update</em></p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/26/stances-force-and-custom-lightsabers-all-you-need-to-know-about-star-wars-jedi-survivors-improved-combat/',
                'Stances, Force, and custom lightsabers: All you need to know about Star Wars Jedi: Survivor’s improved combat',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/99215120f5088d1ab89181ca043df8389d8d1f10.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Nobody said that the path of the Jedi would be an easy one, but things are particularly rough right now for Cal Kestis. Perennially hunted by authority figures and fame-seeking scoundrels alike, Cal soon finds himself struggling once again. You’ll need to guide him as he searches for friends old and new alongside his explorer droid companion BD-1. Fortunately, you’ve got the power of the Force on your side, but that’s small consolation when it feels like everything is against you. Fear not, however–we’ve got some feature highlights and combat tips to get your latest journey through the Star Wars universe off to a lightspeed start.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Battle stances ready</h2>
<p class="">Lightsaber stances have been expanded in Jedi Survivor. There are five different stances available, three of which you’ll have access to from a very early point in the game: Single, Double-bladed, and Dual Wield. You can equip two stances at a time and swap between them in combat with a press of left or right on the D-pad. Let’s take a quick look at each of these starter stances.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Single: </strong>The classic Jedi wielding stance also happens to be the most balanced of the bunch, rewarding players who can time their strikes and parries. It’s perfect for those epic one-on-one duels, but it offers some ranged and crowd-downing attacks as well. </p>
<p class="">Going through the skill tree will open up a powerful penetrating lightsaber toss, a stagger-inducing jumping strike, and dash strikes that can knock down enemies on the ground or in the air. </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExZmRkNjllY2IwOTBlNTU2NzRjYTIzMzIzNmJjOWJlMThmMzYyMmU0ZiZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/Aaz7XuqA5syuX5kP1x/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExZmRkNjllY2IwOTBlNTU2NzRjYTIzMzIzNmJjOWJlMThmMzYyMmU0ZiZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/Aaz7XuqA5syuX5kP1x/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class=""><strong>Double-bladed: </strong>Are you in need of some crowd control? Then the double-bladed stance is what you’re looking for. Swinging the double-ended lightsaber around makes dealing with a crowd of enemies surrounding you much less of a hassle. </p>
<p class="">Throw the dual-ended saber in a wide boomerang arc to damage multiple enemies. Or if you’re facing a battalion of blaster fire, hold L1 to twirl the lightsaber in front of you as you move, automatically parrying all the bolts headed your way. There is also an ability later in the game where you won’t even need to hold L1 to perform this maneuver. Building this skill tree up will grant Cal a spinning lunge attack, a group-stunning aerial dive-bomb, and even a special controllable flying lightsaber attack that acts like a mini-helicopter of pain.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNTA3NmJiY2MxNjQ1YjMwMGRlZDJiYjM1ZTUxYzljOTc4NzRlZjY5MCZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/a44Er02tOhzcLk2OSS/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNTA3NmJiY2MxNjQ1YjMwMGRlZDJiYjM1ZTUxYzljOTc4NzRlZjY5MCZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/a44Er02tOhzcLk2OSS/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class=""><strong>Dual Wield: </strong>This stance is for players who love fast-paced, all-out offense. Your defense and range ratings take a hit, but you can make up for it: you’ve still got a long-range lightsaber toss, and by holding down the triangle button, you can auto-parry quite a few incoming melee attacks–just not the really big ones. </p>
<p class="">Enhancing this stance’s skills will up the power of the parry and reward you for precise timing, as well as perform a quick backwards-dodge after a strike and split blaster shots into two damaging bolts when parried. At high skill levels, you’ll be able to toss multiple blades at separate enemies like a Jedi juggler. </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExYTczOTZlYWVkMjlhODMxMDhjZDdiNmI2NzAwYjllZWVlMDUzNTBhNCZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/onMQ3XyvcLrPwKCAlr/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExYTczOTZlYWVkMjlhODMxMDhjZDdiNmI2NzAwYjllZWVlMDUzNTBhNCZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/onMQ3XyvcLrPwKCAlr/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Fighting Force</h2>
<p class="">Complementing your combat stances are Force skills, which use energy from the force meter. Cal’s telekinetic push and pull abilities aren’t just for manipulating the environment: you can use them to throw enemies around the field like ragdolls or group them closer together for easy picking-off. You can also use the Force to snatch away pesky shields and lob environmental objects–or even the enemy’s own weaponry–at attackers. Cal can also use Jedi mind tricks to temporarily confuse a foe into attacking their teammates. Also, Cal can briefly use Jedi concentration to slow down time and get a brief but oh-so-important advantage over an attacking foe. </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMjkyNmQ5YjE1OGVmYzhiYzc5MDVjMTA5MGRjMDkwZmI1N2IyNThjYiZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/7gbmyB0C4acsPIrvsI/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMjkyNmQ5YjE1OGVmYzhiYzc5MDVjMTA5MGRjMDkwZmI1N2IyNThjYiZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/7gbmyB0C4acsPIrvsI/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="">Using Force skills wisely alongside your lightsaber stances can give you a definite edge in combat. Rather than running straight at that battle droid flailing your lightsaber around, why not sneak up behind them while their back is turned, drag them towards you, and do some big damage before they know what’s going on? Or, once you’ve improved your Force-manipulation skills, you can gently coerce a large, angry specimen of local wildlife to focus their rampage against a group of patrolling stormtroopers. Be wary, though, because some foes are more Force-resistant than others–but building skill power can help with that.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Jedi mastery</h2>
<p class="">Having multiple lightsaber stances and Force skills at your command is awesome, but as you progress in the game, you can power up existing attack skills and learn new attacks for all of your stances. The skill tree system from Jedi: Fallen Order returns in Jedi Survivor, and it’s been expanded significantly, with each stance having its own separate skillset. </p>
<p class="">By spending skill points, you’ll unlock a full repertoire of attacks for each stance–but you’ll also have to balance upgrading lightsaber skills with survival and force skill trees. Don’t worry too much about making bad upgrade choices: if you’ve invested heavily in a stance that doesn’t click with you, you can always reset and spend all the points you’ve earned differently. (The first reset is free, further resets cost one skill point each.)</p>
<p class="">Skill points don’t come easily, though! It usually takes a while before you earn even one. Defeating foes is the easiest way to gain experience toward skill points. Since enemies respawn when you rest at meditation points, you can farm experience from reappearing high-value foes…slowly. However, you also gain a bit of experience for everything BD-1 scans on the field, certain activities, and every Force Echo you listen to while exploring. That EXP starts to add up after a while, so keep your eye out for things to examine. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Perks of the job</h2>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExOTcxMjk5MmZkYTBlODkzOGY5MjA3M2U2NzI2Zjc5OWRjNzg1OWYzYiZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/mY6A35jFfY2F4JCwF5/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExOTcxMjk5MmZkYTBlODkzOGY5MjA3M2U2NzI2Zjc5OWRjNzg1OWYzYiZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/mY6A35jFfY2F4JCwF5/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="">Another new addition to Jedi Survivor is Perks, equippable bonuses with various beneficial effects existing outside of the skill tree. Like with the skill tree, perks are viewable and equipped at meditation spots. You can have multiple perks equipped as long as you’ve got enough slots for them–and take note that the more effective perks take up multiple slots: for example, a simple perk like Flux that gradually regenerates Force is one slot, while Versatility, a perk that gives you a damage boost after a stance switch, takes three. You’ll be able to buy, find, and earn perks on your adventure (as well as obtain more slots). Always try to find and use perks that benefit your playstyle or help shore up weaknesses.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Customize your lightsaber</h2>
<p class="">Who says the Jedi can’t be stylish? Cal can find and buy plenty of cosmetic items throughout his journey–including a wide array of custom lightsaber parts. While these parts don’t affect or enhance your abilities, you can’t deny that they look positively rad.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMGUxYTJhNmJhOTI0ZjQ2ODQ2ZTEzYTNlYmQzZWU3OWJkYTFjMDhkZSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/piUzxYb3wYMvFcQmt2/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMGUxYTJhNmJhOTI0ZjQ2ODQ2ZTEzYTNlYmQzZWU3OWJkYTFjMDhkZSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/piUzxYb3wYMvFcQmt2/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="">To change the parts and colors on your lightsaber (and on BD-1, too), you’ll need to find a workbench. These are scattered around the world, but you’ll first encounter one on Cal’s ship. From here, you can swap numerous lightsaber parts in and out. By obtaining certain color palettes, you can give your lightsaber a fresh coat of paint and even specify how much weathering you want it to have. Like that well-worn look, or maybe you prefer a shiny chrome saber? It’s all up to you.</p>
<p class="">Now that you have a better idea of what to expect before walking the path of the Jedi, make sure you check out Star Wars Jedi: Survivor  once it takes off on April 28 for PS5. </p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/26/humanity-a-gameplay-deep-dive-into-the-upcoming-playstation-plus-puzzler/',
                'Humanity: a gameplay deep dive into the upcoming PlayStation Plus puzzler',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/438d14202237821ac0b098f1e6a48d4bf9a416d0.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Last week, compelling puzzler Humanity was confirmed to launch day one into PlayStation Plus Game Catalog. It joins a wealth of fantastic indies released recently, all of which are available right now as part of the PlayStation Plus Monthly Games or Game Catalog. So today, with Enhance sharing a deep dive into the gameplay features of its Shiba-fronted puzzle adventure ahead of its May 16 launch, we reached out to the creators of Meet Your Maker, Tchia and Kena: Bridge of Spirits to share updates on their titles. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Humanity<strong> </strong></h2>
<p class="">Take control of a luminescent Shiba Inu (in case you don’t know—that’s a dog!) in this visually stunning and thought-provoking action-puzzle game from Enhance and tha ltd. You direct a massive, marching crowd of humans to the light, rebuilding humanity and unlocking new mechanics in the process. Command the people to turn, jump, climb, swim, shoot, follow and more to get them to the goal across 90 carefully crafted stages. Devious puzzles await you, mixing in more action-focused elements, platformer-like levels, and even epic boss battles. Should you lose a few humans along the way, fear not—death is not permanent in the world of Humanity. Any people that fall off a stage turn back into light and walk through the door again.</p>
<p class="">Today, we’re happy to reveal a deeper look at how that all comes together. Check out our all-new gameplay trailer:</p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QyAsm6_iT9I" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</div>
<p class="">Outside of Story Mode, you can browse an ever-growing library of stages created by other players. Play, rate, favorite, and discover new types of puzzles in this limitless cross-platform vault, with curated playlists updated regularly so there’s always something new to play. Or try your hand at bringing your ideas to life using our intuitive Stage Creator. From platforming challenges and straightforward puzzles to artful sculptures, it’s super easy to make a stage and share it with friends and the community.</p>
<p class="">As a VR-optional title, you can also get an up-close view of your human horde and explore the environments in ways not possible in flat 2D via PS VR2 (on PS5) or PS VR (on PS4).</p>
<p class="">Whether you want to experience the Story Mode or are ready to jump into and play or make community content, this game’s got something for everyone. </p>
<p class="has-text-align-right">– Mark MacDonald, Executive Producer, Enhance</p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>Humanity launches May 16, 2023 and is available on PlayStation Plus Game Catalog from Day 1. </em></p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ncT9bACGd5Q" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</div>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Meet Your Maker </h2>
<p class="">Meet Your Maker, is our new first-person building-and-raiding game that’s out now and is available as part of the PlayStation Plus Monthly Games for April. Players step into a post-apocalyptic world where they’re tasked with both creating and infiltrating devious maze-like Outposts filled with traps and guards to protect and steal a vital resource.</p>
<p class="">Every level in the game is deviously designed by players, and whether you opt to focus on building or raiding Outposts, both roles are fun, accessible, and even offer a co-op option to team up with a friend. Here’s some gameplay tips to help you get started: </p>
<p class="">When Building: </p>
<ol class="wp-block-list"><li>Start with a 3-step approach: Build the basic structure, add traps and guards, then personalize with cosmetics. You don’t lose progress or resources by being raided, so share your Outpost, and return to improve on it at any time. </li><li>You can modify traps to trigger only after the Genmat has been stolen. Suprise Raiders by making it just as hard (or harder!) to get out as it was to get in.</li><li>Think like a Raider as you set traps. Ask what they might instinctively do when faced with a particular setup, and then use those reactions against them.</li><li>Try to overcome your own defenses through the “Test my Outpost” feature. It’s the best way to know what’s working and what’s not.  </li></ol>
<p class="">When Raiding:</p>
<ol class="wp-block-list"><li>The Grapple Hook is your new best friend. Master it. It gives you incredible mobility for both attacking and escaping.</li><li>Stock up on useful consumables like speed boosts, deployable shields, and more, before starting your raid. You never know when you’ll need them.</li><li>When a trap is tripped, you’ll get both a visual and audio cue before it deploys. Reacting quickly can save your life.</li><li>Drop a Phoenix Pod after you grab the Genmat for a one-time respawn from the same point. You never know what’s waiting for you on the way out. </li></ol>
<p class="has-text-align-right">– Justin Fragapane, Lead Content Strategist, Behaviour Interactive</p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>Meet Your Maker is available now as part of the PlayStation Plus Monthly Games for April. </em></p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tchia</h2>
<p class="">All the team at Awaceb is incredibly proud to have created a game that is not only fun and immersive in its own right, but also a heartfelt love letter to our homeland. So many people have now discovered New Caledonia through the eyes of Tchia, and we still get a lot of messages from players who appreciate the beauty of the archipelago, the richness of its cultures, and are now interested in knowing more (and sometimes even consider a trip there!). Being able to move people from a tangible, human standpoint is our greatest pride as video game makers.</p>
<p class="has-text-align-right">– Phil Crifo, Tchia Game Director &amp; co-founder of Awaceb</p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>Tchia is available now on the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog. </em></p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Kena: Bridge of Spirits </h2>
<p class="">Kena: Bridge of Spirits marks our gaming debut! At Ember Lab, we’ve always had a passion for great storytelling, and in September, 2021 our small animation studio officially turned to game development with the release of Kena. Since then, we’ve been honored to receive both fan support and critical acclaim. Our story-driven action-adventure blends a narrative focus with exploration, puzzle-solving, and fast-paced combat. Both press and public alike have described Kena’s adventure as “magical,” “compelling,” and “breathtaking.”</p>
<p class="">Taking inspiration from nostalgic games and films, Kena blends Eastern and Western themes as players untangle the past of a forgotten village. Kena, a young Spirit Guide, searches for the mysterious Sacred Mountain Shrine. As the titular Spirit Guide, players help spirits trapped by their personal tragedies with the help of cute (yet powerful) spirit companions, the Rot.</p>
<p class="">Following its release, our game won “Best Indie Game” at the 2021 Game Awards. Praised for its Animation, Art Direction, Music, and more, Kena went on to receive awards and nominations at the Game Developers Choice Awards, DICE, BAFTA, Taipei Game Show, Annie Awards, Webby Awards, and SXSW.</p>
<p class="">We released the free “Anniversary Update” a year after launch as a thank you for the incredible support. The update allowed us to include many features we couldn’t fit into the initial release including New Game+, Spirit Guide Trials, cosmetics, and more. You can read all about the Anniversary Update in our PlayStation Blogs: <a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2022/08/19/details-revealed-for-kenas-free-anniversary-update-out-september-27/">Details Revealed </a>and <a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2022/09/23/crafting-kena-bridge-of-spirits-new-outfits-for-next-weeks-anniversary-update/">Crafting New Outfits</a>.</p>
<p class="">Since launch, PlayStation players have found over 40 million Rot and over 8 million unique hats! (out of 100 possible Rot in the game). We’re so excited for new players to join in! With Kena: Bridge of Spirits, we aimed to strike a balance between inviting, impactful, and a lot of fun. We hope you enjoy our debut game.</p>
<p class="has-text-align-right">– Thomas Varga, Game Writer, Ember Lab </p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>Kena: Bridge of Spirits is available now on the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog </em></p>
<p class="has-small-font-size"><em>Game library varies over time and tier. PlayStation Plus is subject to a recurring subscription fee taken automatically until cancellation. Terms apply: </em><a href="https://www.playstation.com/legal/ps-plus-usage-terms/"><em>play.st/psplus-usageterms</em></a></p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/27/armored-core-vi-fires-of-rubicon-launches-august-25-new-gameplay-details/',
                'Armored Core VI Fires of Rubicon launches August 25 – New gameplay details',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/2750b91a113b231cc5d6e3ee82e9ac39a43a6a27.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">FromSoftware is one of the most beloved developers around, creating modern classics like Bloodborne, Sekiro, and Elden Ring that have enchanted and engrossed players worldwide. But let’s go back in time–back to 1997, when FromSoftware released the cult hit Armored Core on the original PlayStation, and players were enthralled by its mix of intense mech fighting action and strategic customization. The series has been cherished in the eyes of fans since, garnering multiple spin-offs and sequels over the years. Now, 25 years after players first built their custom Cores and 10 years after the last entry, Armored Core returns August 25–and it’s packing plenty of heat. </p>
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<p class="">We sat down with FromSoftware to get a first look at the gameplay of Armored Core VI Fires of Rubicon and learn about the latest in mech action.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52849076063_8f7868cdce_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52849076063_8f7868cdce_4k.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Engage in high-speed mech combat</h2>
<p class="">Those whose primary experience with FromSoftware comes from games like Bloodborne or Elden Ring might be curious about what to expect from Armored Core VI. </p>
<p class="">You play an augmented mercenary piloting a huge, customizable mech. Yet while the pace and structure of mech-piloting action fundamentally differ from other games in the studio’s catalog, players can rest assured that the smooth, responsive controls they’ve come to expect in FromSoftware games is still here–just in a different context. Think giant, heavily equipped robots with the ability to zip around across ground and air, reacting at lightning-fast speeds to attacks and threats while trying to one-up dangerous foes with even more firepower at their disposal.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848039982_7f25f3fd8e_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848039982_7f25f3fd8e_4k.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Rubicon, the ruined planet</h2>
<p class="">Armored Core VI is a new story that takes place on the planet Rubicon, where a powerful energy source called “Coral” has been discovered. But this isn’t stuff that looks pretty in aquariums–Coral is <em>extremely </em>volatile, and it’s already caused a massive disaster that nearly turned all of Rubicon to ash many years prior. But those futuristic megacorps just can’t resist the siren song of Coral and continue to war for it to this day.</p>
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<p class="">The various areas of Rubicon are filled with contrasts, as the hollowed-out industrial ruins from the aforementioned disaster smolder beneath a shiny shell of state-of-the-art mining constructs encasing the planet. </p>
<p class="">“It’s an intricate and multi-layered world, brimming with mega-structures and enormous underground facilities built by its former inhabitants. These structures cover a planetary surface wracked with extreme cold and contamination in the aftermath of the great disaster, and the player will be exploring these various environments as they proceed,” says game director Masaru Yamamura. </p>
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<p class="">The expansive environments will deliver an incredible sense of scale, maintaining the quality we’ve come to expect from FromSoftware’s world-design maestros. And with your Armored Core’s (AC for short) advanced movement skills, you’ll be able to explore these large, open spaces to your heart’s content. You’ll be encountering lots of different scenery and objectives as you advance through the game’s mission-based progression structure (like previous entries).</p>
<p class="">“There will be missions where you’re fighting across sweeping battlefields–very combat-oriented,” Yamamura explains. “But you’ll sometimes be recovering data logs from wreckage and doing other side objectives too.” </p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Combat features </h2>
<p class=""><strong>Assault Boost: </strong>One of the biggest new features in Armored Core VI is an instantaneous switch between long-range gunfighting and close-range melee, thanks to a button-activated movement skill called the Assault Boost. </p>
<p class="">“Assault Boost is an offensive action that helps close the gap between enemies and lets you quickly go from long distance to close range,” Yamamura tells us. It will also provide some incredible chain abilities when fighting, as he describes vividly: “Say you activate Assault Boost to make your approach while using machine gun fire and a missile salvo to stagger the enemy, then use your pulse blade to score a direct melee hit once you’re up close.”</p>
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<p class=""><strong>Stagger: </strong>Another addition to the series’ combat is a “stagger” element: if an AC takes too many hits over a short period of time, its Attitude Control System will be overloaded, making it vulnerable for a short time. Both continuous hits and big, powerful strikes will cause stagger damage, encouraging you to keep up the pressure on the opponent. The damage inflicted to an enemy’s stagger gauge varies from weapon to weapon. It can also be affected by factors like distance, adding additional strategy in equipping and using these armaments in combat. </p>
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<p class="">We asked Yamamura how the pace and feel of the game compares to previous entries. </p>
<p class="">“The average movement speed across the game is somewhere between Armored Core 3 and Armored Core 5,” he replies. “But Armored Core VI has been developed to bolster the changes of tempo and combat. With instantaneous bursts of speed and sudden changes of tempo, combat can often reach the dizzying heights of say, Armored Core 4.”</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848039832_8cfa59bedd_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848039832_8cfa59bedd_4k.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Fight challenging bosses</h2>
<p class="">The series’ big boss encounters are back, and the metal monstrosities you’ll encounter look bigger and more intimidating than ever. </p>
<p class="">“There will be a rich variety of powerful enemies of all shapes and sizes,” says Yamamura. “Huge combat helicopters, heavily armored mobile turrets, and unmanned heavy demolition machinery that’s programmed to indiscriminately crush intruders. Armored Core VI will offer a number of explosive battle experiences that challenge players to fight against the odds and overcome these ginormous, more abnormal mechs.”</p>
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<p class="">In addition to these larger bosses, you’ll even fight against other ACs and humanoid mechs in high-octane duels. And in grand FromSoftware tradition, it may take several attempts and some experimentation with your AC’s equipment to fully learn and adapt to a boss’s quirks. So better prepare yourself, as Armored Core VI will offer numerous cathartic explosive battles that’ll truly test your skills.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Build the perfect AC </h2>
<p class="">Customization is a key part of the Armored Core experience. You have access to an assortment of parts to upgrade and fine-tune the power of your AC. Four slots for holding weaponry–one in each hand and two on the back–give you a lot of space to experiment with custom loadouts.</p>
<p class="">What kind of weapons are we talking about? Bazookas, gatling guns, split missiles, plasma rifles, and all the perennial favorites. There are a bunch of new close-range weapons, too. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52849018285_f60f77408c_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52849018285_f60f77408c_4k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">“One aspect we focused on in Armored Core VI is melee weapons, exclusively equipped to the left hand,” Yamamura continues. “These can include a cluster bomb thrower, a chainsaw or pulse blade, lances, and other more idiosyncratic weapons. Since the main weapons are firearms, the melee weapons are more focused on that strength of individuality.” </p>
<p class="">Add in custom paint jobs and liveries and you’ll be able to create a unique AC that’s all yours. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52849075888_020ab538c7_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52849075888_020ab538c7_4k.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Arena is back</h2>
<p class="">There’s more good news for longtime Armored Core fans. The Arena, a much-cherished mode where you can fight a series of battles against a wide array of specially customized mechs, makes its return in Armored Core VI as a “combat aptitude evaluation program” (simulated training exercise). </p>
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<p class="">“There are a lot of different AC frames and a lot of colorful characters to fight in the Arena, so we hope the players confront them all and aim for the top rank. You can even encounter the real version of these opponents while out on missions. These are more formidable than their simulator counterparts, and will confront the protagonist with their own ideals and motives in the heat of battle.”</p>
<p class="">Perfecting your combat skills won’t be the only reason you’ll want to return to the frontline: there will be multiple endings to Armored Core VI’s narrative, with new paths opening up on subsequent playthroughs, giving players plenty of incentive to explore the world and story thoroughly. What will be the ultimate fate of Rubicon? That’s all up to you. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848039787_e57ecfd5ed_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848039787_e57ecfd5ed_4k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">With the pedigree of FromSoftware and a long-running series behind it, Armored Core VI is going to be one to watch for fans of intense, challenging action games. Prepare for a mech action-packed end of summer when Armored Core VI launches for PS4 and PS5 on August 25.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/27/might-amp-magic-clash-of-heroes-definitive-edition-is-coming-to-playstation-this-summer/',
                'Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes – Definitive Edition is coming to PlayStation this summer',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/1e45d8c12e12e7ad8f6aec0282ef6eeed45dc06d.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">“Wait, you’ve never played Clash of Heroes before?”  I can’t recall the number of times I’ve said this sentence before.</p>
<p class="">The original title, developed by Capybara Games and published by Ubisoft, was released on PlayStation 3 in 2011. I’m always surprised because I really consider this game to be a real game design gem, using the deep lore of the Might &amp; Magic universe to create a unique mix of strategy and puzzle game.</p>
<p class="">After working previously with Ubisoft and getting my hands on Clash of Heroes for the first time, it was always a thought in the back of my head that Clash of Heroes needs to come back.</p>
<p class="">I’ve always considered it to be an instant classic, bringing a perfect “one more game” dynamic as you’re trying to figure out the best builds and strategies. Working on an updated version of this game is a personal dream so needless to say that I was very enthusiastic when talking with Ubisoft about making the definitive version of Clash of Heroes … So let’s talk more about it!</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A brilliant mix of action and strategy</h2>
<p class="">Clash of Heroes is a turn-based strategy game where you need to knock your opponent out with devastating attacks while preparing your defenses. To do so, you have a limited amount of moves each turn to move units from your board – secure three matching units vertically or at least 3 horizontally to activate your attacks and defenses respectively. As soon as they’re done charging, the units will move forward and attack your enemy’s board.</p>
<p class="">Getting through your enemy’s units will help you attack their hero directly. Once they’re KO, you win! Pretty straightforward, right? Well, that’s not really all…</p>
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<p class="">If you happen to match units by deleting a unit from your board, you’ll win back an additional move. Mastering this and creating chain reactions on your board will definitely give you the upper hand and help you secure more attacks and/or defenses.</p>
<p class="">Each faction brings their dedicated Heroes and units with different playstyles. As a member of the Haven faction, Godric has access to the Priestess, an elite unit who, while charging, heals your hero before firing an energy blast across the battlefield. Members of the Sylvan faction like Anwen can choose dragons that spray acid on your opponent’s battlefield.</p>
<p class="">Artifacts can also be activated and can be game-changers: boost specific units, buff your chances of critical hits or reduce the starting powers of your enemy’s formation… My personal favorite is to go for an offensive strategy with the Necropolis and use the spider cloak: my hero only has 25% of health points but my units deal 75% more damage than usual which makes it a huge risk but huge reward strategy. Very useful when your strategy revolves around charging the devastating Death Knights.</p>
<p class="">Mixing your build to an artifact and your Hero’s unique spell is key to creating the perfect build and being unstoppable. The “easy to learn, hard to master” mantra in a nutshell.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843957663_56d7d2f653_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843957663_56d7d2f653_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The final version, for all to enjoy</h2>
<p class="">Our experience in bringing back games from the past – 2011 is now retro, right? – helped us a lot in this project. As a Definitive Edition, we knew we had to create the best version of this to both the future audience that did not get the chance to play this back then and the early adopters who just like us how great this title is.</p>
<p class="">In addition to including the previously released DLC, which added new playable characters and features, we took the opportunity to add balancing, many quality-of-life improvements as well as brand new character portraits.</p>
<p class="">The idea is to keep what made this game so good while making it more accessible and enjoyable for modern audiences.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843509611_7f1618a306_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843509611_7f1618a306_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">You’ll get to discover a better-than-ever story mode which I think is the perfect way to discover all of the characters, units, spells and artifacts the game has to offer before jumping into what is for me the crown jewel of Clash of Heroes: its multiplayer.</p>
<p class="">The offline and online multiplayer is highly addictive and lights up the competitive spirit in everybody… Even if you “draw” your available units randomly into the battlefield, it’s essentially your brain against your opponent’s brain: will your synergies be efficient against your enemy’s build? Will you see the different combinations the board is offering you? What level of risk will you be willing to take?</p>
<p class="">How many times I thought I was doomed with a couple of HP left to ultimately manage to charge my best units, build my defenses where it actually mattered and obliterate my friend at 3 a.m, finally calling it a night (sorry Vincent!)</p>
<p class="">We’re looking forward to seeing you joining the Clash of Heroes community when our Definitive Edition will be available on PlayStation 4 this summer. We do apologize for the upcoming broken friendships and cold pizzas.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/27/feel-the-force-with-ps5s-haptics-and-adaptive-triggers-in-star-wars-jedi-survivor/',
                'Feel The Force with PS5’s haptics and adaptive triggers in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/db084b05b2316a7bec5b82fa1b109f874826d030.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">With the PlayStation 5 DualSense wireless controller, Respawn Entertainment  and Lucasfilm Games have been able to create one of the most immersive Star Wars gaming experiences yet. During your journey through the galaxy, you’ll be able to feel the power of the Force at your fingertips – quite literally.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Using The Force</h2>
<p class="">Need that shiny object just out of reach? Bring it a bit closer with the tap of a trigger. If you find Cal surrounded by foes, why not pull them even closer to deal damage to all of them at once – or push them away with a blast of power from Cal’s hand.</p>
<p class="">You’ll truly be able to feel that power based on how you’re using the Force, with trigger resistance influenced by how heavy or resistant enemies are you’re trying to pull. After you’ve finally managed to pull the foe into attacking range or yank their shield away from them, the resistance will disappear to simulate a sense of victorious relief.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMTVkMjY5MGM1ZTVmZWI2YjRiMjc4ZjllZGMyMWYxOTFkMjQ2ZTNkYSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/HdFCqdOyNEIcBaDgkk/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMTVkMjY5MGM1ZTVmZWI2YjRiMjc4ZjllZGMyMWYxOTFkMjQ2ZTNkYSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/HdFCqdOyNEIcBaDgkk/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Portable pal</h2>
<p class="">Haptics aren’t just limited to Cal’s lightsaber. BD-1’s gadgets and tools also have DualSense-specific effects. When Cal is zipping across a line, you’ll feel the rumble radiating in the triggers as well as more or less resistance depending on the speed you choose to go. You’ll also feel a slight bump when BD-1 flies to Cal’s shoulder to catch up to him.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media2.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExOTBmNjY1ZjcxMTRmYTVhNDg3ZDJjZjVjNjQ3NzU4MjU4MDcxOWNiMyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/pScm3OgIDqW1ITY6nR/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media2.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExOTBmNjY1ZjcxMTRmYTVhNDg3ZDJjZjVjNjQ3NzU4MjU4MDcxOWNiMyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/pScm3OgIDqW1ITY6nR/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Your Cal your way</h2>
<p class="">Star Wars Jedi: Survivor features a plethora of customization options for players to shape their Cal – from jackets to shirts and hairstyles and, of course lightsabers. When customizing your lightsaber at a workbench, you’ll feel the triggers vibrate as you switch out parts for your blade, and the controller will gently vibrate when Cal ignites his lightsaber.</p>
<p class="">The DualSense’s color bar will also match whatever color you select for Cal’s lightsaber.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media0.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMjEzN2NmMjJhOTc3ZWIzZDU2Nzc1YTU0MjE3M2YzY2ExNzFlNWZiOSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/BKThBAF008AsNQItLs/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media0.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMjEzN2NmMjJhOTc3ZWIzZDU2Nzc1YTU0MjE3M2YzY2ExNzFlNWZiOSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/BKThBAF008AsNQItLs/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="">You’ll be able to dive into Cal’s new adventure and discover how DualSense adds to the immersion of being a Jedi when Star Wars Jedi: Survivor launches on April 28.</p>
<p class="">In the meantime, you can read our <a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/26/stances-force-and-custom-lightsabers-all-you-need-to-know-about-star-wars-jedi-survivors-improved-combat/">hands-on report</a> for more gameplay details. </p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/27/playstation-stars-campaigns-and-digital-collectibles-for-may-2023/',
                'PlayStation Stars Campaigns and Digital Collectibles for May 2023',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/d4c1690dd5abef7d0133281e21b83a3917b39222.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Today, we’re pleased to announce the PlayStation Stars lineup for May. Starting on Monday, May 1, members can test their knowledge, flex skills, and bring back fond memories with some nostalgic content. Let’s dive into some of the new content and remember to check in regularly to PlayStation Stars on PlayStation App for the latest campaigns.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PlayStation Plus Game Catalog: Must-play this Month</h2>
<p class=""><strong><em>Available May 1</em></strong></p>
<p class="">Calling all PlayStation Plus Extra &amp; PlayStation Plus Premium/Deluxe members! In the <strong>Must-play this Month</strong> campaign, there will be cryptic references to five games in the PlayStation Plus Games Catalog. Once you guess the title, play any one of them to earn some points. Be sure to check out the details within the PS Stars app when the campaign begins.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Your PlayStation Plus Monthly Games await </h2>
<p class=""><strong><em>Available May 2</em></strong></p>
<p class="">New month, new PlayStation Plus Monthly Games. For this PS Stars campaign PlayStation Plus can members play one of the Monthly Games for May to earn points. <a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/26/playstation-plus-monthly-games-for-may-grid-legends-chivalry-2-and-descenders/">Learn more on the PlayStation Plus Monthly Games for May</a>. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Digital Collectible-Earning Campaigns</h2>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hard Game Club | Collectible: Dead Cells Balloon </h2>
<p class=""><strong><em>Available Starting May 18</em></strong></p>
<p class="">Get ready to test your skills with the Hard Game Club campaign. Each month, we feature the toughest games on PS4 and PS5. This month, starting on May 18, the featured game is Dead Cells, where you can earn the Hard Game Club May 2023 Balloon if you achieve the Blade Master trophy. To earn the Blade Master trophy in Dead Cells, you need to beat the Time Keeper.</p>
<p class="">Note: Existing PlayStation Stars members who have already earned the Blade Master trophy can collect the Hard Game Club Balloon by starting the PlayStation Stars campaign in PS App and playing any PS4 or PS5 game from May 1-17.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media2.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExODlkZjM1NDk1YWU0MjYzYzc3M2ZiMGE1NTNkNzlmYWU1ODUyNzAwYyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/p1mB4WQRu1wZTTz6WP/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media2.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExODlkZjM1NDk1YWU0MjYzYzc3M2ZiMGE1NTNkNzlmYWU1ODUyNzAwYyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/p1mB4WQRu1wZTTz6WP/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hit Play 1997 | Collectible: Sony AM radio</h2>
<p class=""><strong><em>Available May 20 </em></strong></p>
<p class="">Before the flip phone, there was the flip… radio? Yep, this cute little radio’s clamshell design meant that you could fold it up and carry it anywhere with the attached strap. To earn this digital collectible – launch the six games matching songs from 1997 as part of this Hit Play 1997 campaign. Hints will be provided once the campaign begins.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMTI4NTg0MWRkYWNiY2RmYzM5MjEwODI0YmRiODA4OGIyMWU3NmUxNyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/r7A2zxIFjzelvNWcG5/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMTI4NTg0MWRkYWNiY2RmYzM5MjEwODI0YmRiODA4OGIyMWU3NmUxNyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/r7A2zxIFjzelvNWcG5/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Limited Release Collectibles</h2>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PlayStation and You: PS3</h2>
<p class=""><strong><em>Available May 15 </em></strong></p>
<p class="">For PlayStation Stars members who owned the Splash Blue PS3. Play any PS4 or PS5 game to unlock this digital collectible.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExOTJmYmY5NTk4NzFiZWQzZTQ5MGQxOGFhZTEwMGIyMTVhMjVkNzM4NSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/4wfSOydl5qkfKwG1oD/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExOTJmYmY5NTk4NzFiZWQzZTQ5MGQxOGFhZTEwMGIyMTVhMjVkNzM4NSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/4wfSOydl5qkfKwG1oD/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PlayStation &amp; You: PS VR Aim Controller</h2>
<p class=""><strong><em>Available May 1 </em></strong></p>
<p class="">For PS VR Aim Owners only. Don’t let its simple and elegant design fool you. When used with PlayStation VR, the PS VR Aim Controller provides an immersive experience, adding a physical connection to the VR world. PS VR Aim Owners can play any game on PS4 or PS5 to earn this digital collectible.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExOWE5MmNjYmU3MjAyYmFhOTFhZGMzYTk5NjExYTdkY2RlNWI4MDExYyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/pP0IIx6VWkmP38DTKn/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExOWE5MmNjYmU3MjAyYmFhOTFhZGMzYTk5NjExYTdkY2RlNWI4MDExYyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/pP0IIx6VWkmP38DTKn/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="">As a reminder, PlayStation Stars members can earn digital collectibles or points by completing monthly campaigns. PlayStation Plus members enjoy additional opportunities to earn points through exclusive campaigns and PlayStation Store purchases. Points earned can be redeemed in your Reward Catalog for PlayStation Network wallet funds, select games, and limited release digital collectibles.  <a href="https://store.playstation.com/sky/qrcode/?smcid=Social%20%3ABlog%3Aloyalty-banner%3AMay23">Learn more about PlayStation Stars and join here</a>. </p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/27/producer-takashi-tokita-reveals-the-secrets-of-live-a-live/',
                'Producer Takashi Tokita reveals the secrets of Live A Live',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/f52cc8ffa8e722c5d36dbe8c16bf65db1ad6f5cc.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Hello PlayStation players! My name is Takashi Tokita, producer of Live A Live.</p>
<p class="">I’m excited to say that the game is now available to buy digitally for PS5 and PS4. It’s a very unique RPG that lets you play through short stories across eight different time periods – all presented with beautiful HD-2D visuals.</p>
<p class="">This game is very special to me – I directed the original Live A Live 29 years ago, and it was the first game I ever planned from the ground up. It’s my most beloved title!</p>
<p class="">To celebrate its release on PlayStation consoles, I wanted to share some memories of working on the game – both the original and the remake.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The history of Live A Live</h2>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media0.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExZjYwNzlkZmFlOWI3N2FmYTVjNmI3ZDg3ZmQzZjY5Y2YzNGUxZjhmNyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/PzYqc9VWd9EBngSnoS/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media0.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExZjYwNzlkZmFlOWI3N2FmYTVjNmI3ZDg3ZmQzZjY5Y2YzNGUxZjhmNyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/PzYqc9VWd9EBngSnoS/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="">The original Live A Live started production between the development of Final Fantasy IV and Chrono Trigger. I wanted to create a new style of RPG, so I got together with my colleagues to kick off a new project.</p>
<p class="">Our idea was to break a long RPG down into a sort of omnibus – or short story – format. It would feature many familiar elements of role-playing games but let players also enjoy lots of different worlds and mechanics. </p>
<p class="">The game launched September 2, 1994, but unfortunately, we were unable to release the game outside of Japan. That was heart-breaking.</p>
<p class="">However, those who did play understood the appeal of the game and spread the word for us. Despite the game not being translated, volunteers localized it and passed down stories of how interesting it was for many years.<br/></p>
<p class="">It has been my earnest wish that Live A Live be played by people all around the world, and thanks to so many people rooting for the game, they now can – and on the latest platform!<br/></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The design of Live A Live</h2>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMDhmMGMxZDUwNjI5NjJmYzkxNzI3MWEyNTNhZmIxOTdhNmY2ZTgyYyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/2zJ82H3lkvKFkxOmWE/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMDhmMGMxZDUwNjI5NjJmYzkxNzI3MWEyNTNhZmIxOTdhNmY2ZTgyYyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/2zJ82H3lkvKFkxOmWE/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="">One of the elements of Live A Live that makes it stand out so much is its structure. Unlike many other RPGs, which typically feature a single epic journey, our game lets players pick between seven tales, each set in different eras and play through them in any order.<br/></p>
<p class="">RPGs broken up into chapters existed even during the time of the original release, but I wanted players to be able to freely choose the world and character they liked. I asked a different manga artist to design the characters for each of the respective chapters, in hopes that each would express themselves to their fullest.</p>
<p class="">Live A Live also provides the player with the ability to make key decisions and forge their own path in certain key parts of the story. That’s because I believe that freedom of choice and the consequences that follow make for some of the best things in games in general, not just limited to RPGs!</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The different settings of Live A Live</h2>
<p class="">Since the very beginning of the planning phases for Live A Live, I knew I wanted to incorporate settings that could believably feature RPG elements. That’s how we ended up with our eight different periods of history:</p>
<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Prehistory, where there are no words<br/></li><li>Imperial China, where a Shifu trains his successors<br/></li><li>The Wild West, where you could explore a town<br/></li><li>Twilight of Edo Japan, where you undertake a secret mission<br/></li><li>Present Day, where you could test your mettle with martial artists around the world<br/></li><li>The Near Future, where the protagonist has psychokinetic powers<br/></li><li>The Distant Future, where all the drama takes place on a spaceship<br/></li><li>The Middle Ages, which is a classic RPG element and what you can choose when you have completed the others<br/></li></ul>
<p class="">We had many ideas for what happens within each chapter. For example…</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Twilight of Edo Japan</h2>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media0.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMDFkYzk3ZjA2NWMxOGQ4M2FjMWNmMGEwNzc0NTQ1ODY1YWJkZjdjMyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/mWxwcsmHzRBLriCNsV/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media0.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMDFkYzk3ZjA2NWMxOGQ4M2FjMWNmMGEwNzc0NTQ1ODY1YWJkZjdjMyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/mWxwcsmHzRBLriCNsV/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="">In this chapter, you play as a shinobi, tasked with infiltrating an enemy castle to rescue a hostage. You can approach this task stealthily, avoiding combat and sneaking past guards, or take them all on in combat – it’s up to you.</p>
<p class="">The staff handling the chapter were very particular and gave the player more freedom than we initially anticipated. As a result, the level design was much more complex as well.</p>
<p class="">That said, the concept was about a shinobi executing his mission in the way he feels fit, so we took our time during production both in the original and in the new remake to deliver a great experience – whether you decide to defeat all your enemies and slash a hundred people or kill no one at all. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Present Day</h2>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExYWRiMjUzZjM3ZTU4Y2I5YTY5OTA2MWY2NTJmMTIwNjNlNGRlNGM3YSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/t7fjg2Rp9CQq0O1zmx/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExYWRiMjUzZjM3ZTU4Y2I5YTY5OTA2MWY2NTJmMTIwNjNlNGRlNGM3YSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/t7fjg2Rp9CQq0O1zmx/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="">In this combat-focused chapter, you play as a fighter on a journey to be the best warrior in the world. By taking on many different opponents, you can learn their skills and use them yourself.</p>
<p class="">During development, fighting games such as Street Fighter and Virtua Fighter were becoming popular, plus many of our staff – me included – were fans of pro-wrestling, too. </p>
<p class="">It would have been difficult to produce a standalone fighting game at a company like Square at the time, which primarily produced RPGs, but I figured it would be possible to make one segment in an omnibus work as a fighting game.<br/></p>
<p class="">Incidentally, I think it’s a wonderful coincidence that when Ms. Yoko Shimomura, who composed the music for Street Fighter II, transferred over to Square, this was the first title she worked on!<br/></p>
<p class="">Of course, Twilight of Edo Japan and Present Day are just two examples – because we chose eight very distinct eras, each one has a unique impact.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Defining the visual style of the Live A Live remake</h2>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNGIyNzRkNWRmZWY1OTA0MGIzNTQ5YmE2YWFkYTA5YmJjMzQyZjQ2NCZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/MQvWXbU4fRn62bLv5r/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNGIyNzRkNWRmZWY1OTA0MGIzNTQ5YmE2YWFkYTA5YmJjMzQyZjQ2NCZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/MQvWXbU4fRn62bLv5r/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="">This new version of the game has extra impact thanks to the stunning HD-2D visuals! It combines 2D sprites with 3D graphics and I think you’ll agree it looks beautiful!</p>
<p class=""><br/>The reason we went with this approach was because of Octopath Traveler. When that game was announced, I was working in a different division of Square Enix, but when I saw how perfectly the pixel characters and latest effects blended, I was blown away! I remember thinking: “I didn’t know you could do such a thing!”<br/></p>
<p class="">A while afterwards, I joined Team Asano, who made that game. They were looking to their next project and exploring various options for a remake – and Live A Live was put into consideration.</p>
<p class="">Of course, I was just waiting for the opportunity for the game to return, and thanks to the acclaim the original title received, and the passionate support of everyone around us, Live A Live was resurrected in HD-2D. I think that’s the best form it could possibly take!</p>
<hr class="ps-block-separator"/>
<p class="">I hope you enjoyed reading about Live A Live – the game is available to play now on PS5 and PS4.<br/></p>
<p class="">We are in an age flooded with digital entertainment, and I would love for everyone to enjoy this bite-size omnibus RPG – and see what got the players talking all those years ago.</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/27/inside-look-warhammer-40000-x-world-of-tanks/',
                'Inside Look: Warhammer 40,000 x World of Tanks',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/0eb0696643944c90e5ceba1affceaaae5e1f24f9-scaled.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">It was only a matter of time before the war to defend humanity reached new battlegrounds. Starting on May 2, players of World of Tanks Modern Armor will get to fight against Orks and the forces of Chaos in a brand-new Warhammer 40,000 event on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.<br/><br/>This Imperium-sized event features incredible content to immerse players in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Five new tanks, two new 3D Hero Commanders with exclusive voiceover, and a limited-time community event are all available for those who swear to defend the Emperor.</p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JW_Fuk1DYIQ" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</div>
<p class=""><br/>“Both Warhammer 40,000 and World of Tanks Modern Armor have a rich history of vehicular combat,” says Daniel Burr, live game director for World of Tanks Modern Armor. “Whether you are in a Sherman or a Leman Russ, tanks are powerful!”<br/><br/>So let’s talk about tanks.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The tanks</h2>
<p class="">Five new tanks will be available as part of the Warhammer 40,000 event:</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">·   The Nemesis<strong> </strong>tank destroyer</h3>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52846709958_1c762a7c4b_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52846709958_1c762a7c4b_h.jpg"/></a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">·   The Teefbreaka<strong> </strong>light tank</h3>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52842741087_16d080c056_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52842741087_16d080c056_h.jpg"/></a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">·   The Reaper’s Scythe medium tank</h3>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843506954_bbad80c754_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843506954_bbad80c754_h.jpg"/></a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">·   The Ignis Purgatio medium tank</h3>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52842741727_c93d93682c_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52842741727_c93d93682c_h.jpg"/></a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">·   The console-exclusive Leman Russ heavy tank</h3>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52842741467_9236722c89_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52842741467_9236722c89_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">“The single most challenging aspect was fidelity,” says Burr. “Warhammer 40,000 tanks and Commanders are very detailed, and getting those details right required a lot of work and a lot of communication with our partners at Games Workshop.”</p>
<p class="">Leading the effort to faithfully reproduce these tanks for a 20th-century battlefield was Andy Dorizas, Art Director for World of Tanks Modern Armor. Dorizas is quick to acknowledge, though, that this wasn’t a one-person task. “The Commanders and tanks were a massive group project that spanned four continents and took several months,” he says. “The Warhammer 40,000 tanks were very much an exercise in accuracy.”<br/><br/>A special part of the challenge was recreating the Leman Russ, the Astra Militrum’s primary battle tank. As a tank exclusive to World of Tanks Modern Armor and unavailable in other games in the World of Tanks family, it required a certain amount of creativity.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52845675757_886f261297_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52845675757_886f261297_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">“We painstakingly studied the physical tank so it would be spot-on accurate,” Dorizas explains. “Then we had artists translate our concepts into usable geometry for our game. Once we had the model for the Leman Russ battle tank, we then painted the tank to match its most iconic colors from the universe, a lot like fans of their models do every day.”<br/><br/>But Dorizas and team didn’t stop there. “Of course, we added a ton of wear and detail to make the tank look… battle hardened. Our dedicated tank artists rigged it with our special track system, designers added special World of Tanks collision and balancing parameters, and <em>bam</em>. You can drive the Leman Russ in our game.”</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843317321_a22cbc742a_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843317321_a22cbc742a_h.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The Commanders</strong></h2>
<p class="">Every ground-shattering vehicle needs a formidable warrior. Available to players during the event are two new 3D Hero Commanders, battling in the name of the Emperor: Volusad Thassius of the Ultramarines and Patricia Laserian of the Sisters of Battle<strong>.</strong></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843317021_5d3fb4b885_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843317021_5d3fb4b885_h.jpg"/></a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Just like the tanks, these animated 3D Commanders required exceptional care to be brought to life</strong></h3>
<p class="">“The [3D] Commander models went through several iterative sessions to make sure we got all the details correct. Then they were textured and painted by some super-talented artists here at Wargaming,” says Andy Dorizas. “Then we did a special motion capture session just for these Commanders and our animator had a blast giving them attitude.”</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843506729_d23b18cc73_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843506729_d23b18cc73_h.jpg"/></a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Once the visual models were down, it was time to let these two Commanders’ unique voices be heard</strong></h3>
<p class="">Guiding the voiceover for this project was gaming industry veteran Jason “Jay” Baughan, whose previous voice direction credits<strong> </strong>include LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga and Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Breakpoint. “It all comes down to authenticity and creating an experience that feels true to fans of Warhammer 40,000,” says Baughan. “Working with actual Warhammer 40,000<em> </em>voiceover veterans, I think we achieved that.”<br/><br/>Baughan and the voice talent recorded over 300 unique lines for each Commander. The result?<br/><br/>“We’ve set a new bar for ourselves in terms of quality: hearing your Ultramarine Commander or your Battle Sister Commander praising your victory in combat really elevates the gameplay experience,” says Daniel Burr.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The battle</strong></h2>
<p class="">Appropriately enough, all of this content is part of World of Tanks Modern Armor’s current epic season, Gladiators. It’s offered alongside a two-part community event in which players can ally themselves with either the Space Marines or the Sisters of Battle and do battle first against the Orks, then the agents of Chaos.</p>
<p class="">Whether players are familiar with Warhammer 40,000 or simply ready for a fight, this May, champions are needed.</p>
</div>',
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            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/28/sci-fi-action-adventure-hubris-launches-hits-ps-vr2-this-may/',
                'Sci-fi action-adventure Hubris launches hits PS VR2 this May',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/9f4e8f2bca895421cb1eef14bf1d614c52f6f587.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Greetings all! We have thrilling news to share with all of you today. Next month, Hubris will be launching on PlayStation VR2, and this version promises to deliver an unparalleled experience. Cyborn has made significant improvements to the game, particularly for the new PS VR 2, resulting in enhanced graphics and gameplay.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848420008_13d4c50eb4_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848420008_13d4c50eb4_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">But first what is Hubris all about. Hubris is a VR action-adventure game set in a unique and colorful sci-fi universe, with immersive movement options, including swimming, climbing, and jumping. Players will have to gather resources, craft food and upgrade their weapons to fight off alien wildlife, droids, and humanoid enemies.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExZWNmYzI4NzIwMmFmNGZkZTY0N2E1NjBhNzBiMjg2NjQ2MThjNzZiMiZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/nPIaXB7zi1IchQWci3/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExZWNmYzI4NzIwMmFmNGZkZTY0N2E1NjBhNzBiMjg2NjQ2MThjNzZiMiZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/nPIaXB7zi1IchQWci3/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="">The inclusion of foveated rendering is a significant enhancement for our game, which features complex and expansive scenes. This cutting-edge technology allows for a sharper resolution than anything previously achieved. The game’s textures and models are now several times clearer, while the frame rate remains stable.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExZmE2NmY3ZjU1OTk1MTgyYjkyM2FmY2Q3OTc0MGMyYmNhZGRhNDVhMSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/xoWdkj3w1x55wD7Ivf/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media3.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExZmE2NmY3ZjU1OTk1MTgyYjkyM2FmY2Q3OTc0MGMyYmNhZGRhNDVhMSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/xoWdkj3w1x55wD7Ivf/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="">Prepare for an even more immersive gameplay experience thanks to the advanced DualSense controller haptics. You’ll feel every action in the game, with feedback provided through both the controllers and headset. From swimming to shooting, every action has been customized with haptic feedback. Moreover, we’ve adjusted the weight of the guns to simulate an impactful feel, and the triggers adapt to the specifications of each weapon. The adaptive triggers have allowed us to significantly improve the precision of triggering alternative fire modes for both the shotgun and harpoon gun, making shooting guided missiles feel even more responsive. </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52847964186_57f98ca165_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52847964186_57f98ca165_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848150054_f8cdbd6b1b_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848150054_f8cdbd6b1b_k.jpg" width="47%"/></a></p>
<p class="">In addition, we have revamped the gun reloading mechanism and enhanced the aiming and iron sights of all the weapons. Additionally, new enemy variations have been introduced, requiring players to approach certain situations differently. The balancing has also been refined, providing a greater challenge for players on the hardest difficulty level and a more story-focused gameplay experience for those on the easiest difficulty level.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMjFkZTU0ODlkOTcwYjY1OTQzNTFlZGYxNjY2YWQyOGYzOGY1OTFmYiZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/PGhx2T8sxpPbe0NmGM/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExMjFkZTU0ODlkOTcwYjY1OTQzNTFlZGYxNjY2YWQyOGYzOGY1OTFmYiZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/PGhx2T8sxpPbe0NmGM/giphy.gif" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="">For a more complete experience the game features 3D audio technology. You can hear the exact location of your enemies and determine the right time to open fire based on their footsteps. In addition, we’ve incorporated a complete ambient music soundtrack that adapts to the player’s environment and combat state, making the game’s most tense moments even more complete.</p>
<p class="">We’re thrilled about the upcoming release of Hubris on PS VR 2, and we hope you are too! Get ready to explore the Twin Planet System this May. Join our Discord community to share your excitement for the release and be the first to know the exact launch date.</p>
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                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/28/share-of-the-week-ghostwire-tokyo-2/',
                'Share of the Week – Ghostwire: Tokyo',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/7d86099847b53c7a86329d911523c046d7b13044.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Last week, we asked you to highlight terrors from the streets of Ghostwire: Tokyo using #PSshare and #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights: </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52850722792_ee7f60bdd3_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52850722792_ee7f60bdd3_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/Mur4dQ/status/1651281754487914528/photo/1"><em>Mur4dQ</em></a><em> shares three masked figures standing in the rain</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52850722787_79696b6e1a_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52850722787_79696b6e1a_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/call_me_xavii/status/1651276263015997441/photo/4"><em>call_me_xavii</em></a><em> shares a yokai standing in water with scissors</em></p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52851755238_e9a11098a5_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52851755238_e9a11098a5_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/sorathluna/status/1651252433488605185/photo/4"><em>sorathluna</em></a><em> shares an arch underneath a full moon</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52851690605_e5c05471b1_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52851690605_e5c05471b1_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/solinstruments_/status/1651187327673282562/photo/3"><em>solinstruments_</em></a><em> shares a suited yokai leaning over someone playing piano</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52851690625_3ba0955974_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52851690625_3ba0955974_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/KenKenVega1/status/1651061215416688641/photo/4"><em>KenKenVega1</em></a><em> shares a long-haired yokai leaning backwards</em></p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52850722807_e3d5436631_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52850722807_e3d5436631_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a></p>
<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://twitter.com/nahHermes/status/1650942698919182337/photo/1"><em>nahHermes</em></a><em> shares a shot of Tokyo Tower with a masked figure at the bottom</em></p>
<p class="">Search<strong> #PSshare #PSBlog</strong> 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/65535/52850722817_91add158b9_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52850722817_91add158b9_k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>THEME: </strong>Horizon Forbidden West – Burning Shores<br/><strong>SUBMIT BY: </strong>11:59 PM PT on May 3, 2023</p>
<p class="">Next week, we’re soaring through Horizon Forbidden West’s expansion Burning Shores. Sharing Aloy’s newest adventures 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/2023/05/01/gate-crash-a-festival-in-the-chivalry-2-raiding-party-update/',
                'Gate crash a festival in the Chivalry 2: Raiding Party update',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/04/c597bb187daad8e4a1f4023e12fcc907a5872501.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Knights, defend your nobles! Starting May 2 <a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2023/04/26/playstation-plus-monthly-games-for-may-grid-legends-chivalry-2-and-descenders/">PlayStation Plus members can get Chivalry 2 as part of May’s Monthly Games on PS5 and PS4</a>. To accompany this awesome launch, Torn Banner Studios has crafted an all-new Raiding Party update – available for free this week for all owners of Chivalry 2.</p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
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<img alt="Gate crash a festival in the Chivalry 2: Raiding Party update" height="1080" src="https://img.youtube.com/vi/i-2ERDmaRbw/maxresdefault.jpg" width="1920"/>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New map – The Sacking of Bridgetown</h2>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52847504997_9f8ad72770_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52847504997_9f8ad72770_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">Join us for the newest Chivalry 2 map The Sacking of Bridgetown, a 64-player Team Objective experience. Defend as the honorable Agathans or spoil the party as the fearless Tenosians.</p>
<p class="">A decadent celebration by Agathian nobles is rudely interrupted by the terrifying blast of war horns: Tenosia is invading the verdant countryside of Irilla.</p>
<p class="">In this huge map’s first stage, defenders spawn as Agathian peasants – who must frantically take up arms to defend their Lords’ vineyards against Tenosian attackers. Can you survive long enough for the Agathian Knights to arrive? Probably not, but you’ll return to the fray as a proper warrior after valiantly dying for your kingdom. </p>
<p class="">After the lush vineyards and farmlands fall to slaughter and flames, it’s time for attackers to raid old Bridgetown itself. Like a Renaissance fair gone deeply, deeply wrong, players will smash up the celebration as they turn the festivities upside down and let the streets run red with wine and, naturally, blood.  </p>
<p class="">Finally, it’s defenestration time. The ultimate objective for the invaders is to toss as many nobles out of windows as possible. Talk about a pane in the butt! </p>
<p class="">Will Tenosia make it past Bridgetown to continue their assault on the lands of the North? Victory or defeat will reveal what tale you weave in this epic assault on all things decent and proper. </p>
<p class=""><em>Interested in a quick lore recap? For each game update the tale of Chivalry 2’s saga of war takes another major step forward. Bridgetown is the sixth post-launch Team Objective map added to the game (alongside various maps for other game modes). After successfully blasting through the bulwark in the Breach of Baudwyn map, the Tenosian Empire has begun the second phase of their invasion, advancing inland, which means crossing Bridgetown. The Agathian wine festival they interrupt? A celebration of King Argon’s successful defense of the recent Thayic Stronghold map against the Mason Order. Knowing is half the battle, right?</em></p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848480500_053eecf3d6_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848480500_053eecf3d6_k.jpg"/></a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New weapon – Heavy Cavalry Sword</h2>
<p class="">Deft in your hands but capable of truly ferocious slashes and special attacks, the new Heavy Cavalry Sword is designed to give players unique new methods of expressing themselves in the dance of Chivalry 2 combat. </p>
<p class="">This one-handed weapon has long reach and slow swings, and can be equipped by the Footman Man-at-Arms and Knight Guardian subclasses. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848269119_acc0dbb6a7_k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848269119_acc0dbb6a7_k.jpg"/></a>
<p class="">The Heavy Cavalry Sword enables unique attacks on horseback, with slash attacks that differ from its slashes on foot. Gameplay tip: input a special attack when on horseback to hold the weapon forward and lead your team’s charge to victory!</p>
<p class="">Various new unlockable skins will be available for the Heavy Cavalry Sword. Armour and Heraldry to match are included in free and paid tiers of the Raiding Party Campaign Pass. </p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cross-play parties and more</h2>
<p class="">The Raiding Party update is one of our biggest ever, with the most quality-of-life improvements we’ve added in a single patch so far. Our team has been committed to continuously improving Chivalry 2 since launch, with new content, bug fixes and tweaks to better the experience. </p>
<p class="">Chivalry 2 already features cross-platform matchmaking and a server browser, but one of the most requested features among the community is the ability to form parties with your friends across different gaming platforms. </p>
<p class="">We’re excited to release Cross-play Parties Beta alongside this update, allowing players to share Invite Codes to add pals to their friends list, party up and matchmake into servers together. As a Beta there will be some minor issues present that we are already working on resolving in a future update.</p>
<p class="">So grab your friends, unsheathe your weapons and lead your forces to victory in the Raiding Party update. </p>
<p class="">Onward – For victory and glory!</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/05/01/get-ready-to-dredge-more-eldritch-aberrations-from-the-deep/',
                'Get ready to Dredge more eldritch aberrations from the deep',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/05/8e9e27702f6dc354da6dd4b7a4bbadee3d4f0e76.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">A month ago, we launched our little fishing game Dredge on PS5 and PS4, and we’ve been overwhelmed by the positive response. We’re grateful that you’re enjoying your time fishing in The Marrows… and exploring the dangerous waters beyond. </p>
<p class="">Today, we’re thrilled to announce that we have more eldritch experiences planned for Dredge throughout the year, including three free updates and a new paid adventure featuring the Ironhaven Corporation, an entity you may have heard mentioned in passing from some of the game’s inhabitants. More on that in the depths below.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52850476316_0606af597d_b.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52850476316_0606af597d_b.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">One of the features requested by so many of you is extended functionality for the in-game map, and we’re excited to introduce this with our first free update in May. The addition of map markers will allow you to select from different coloured icons representing everything from dangers, shipwrecks, mysteries, and more, enabling more effective navigation between locations than before. Additionally, this update will include some fixes and balance changes.</p>
<p class="">In our second update, two new modes will introduce very different ways to experience Dredge. The first is Passive Mode, which caters to players who prefer a less intense experience. Monsters that usually attack fishing boats will no longer be aggressive, allowing players to focus on fishing and enjoying the serene surroundings. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848146877_9e2c67cd15_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848146877_9e2c67cd15_4k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">This update’s second mode is another much requested feature: Photo mode. But rather than just add the ability with a simple menu option, we’re taking a different approach. When it launches, our photo mode will see the addition of a new in-game character who’ll help players unlock their camera ability and share clues on where to find some of the local marine wildlife as subjects for your photography, some of which will be brand new in this update. The mode will be ‘hooked’ into the PlayStation’s screenshot sharing ability so you can share your captures, whether that be of majestic whales or nightmarish abominations from the deep.</p>
<p class="">Our third free update will introduce boat customisations such as paint schemes and flags. As you explore the coastlines and bayous of Dredge, you’ll unlock new boat paint schemes and flags to make your fishing vessel really stand out. We’ll have more information on both updates two and three later in the year.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848724236_3addce7c33_4k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52848724236_3addce7c33_4k.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">Finally, we will be developing a paid and entirely optional DLC featuring the mysterious Ironhaven Corporation. They’re looking to establish an innovative drilling operation in the area to revitalize the towns and populations, but their ultimate goal is unknown. As you gather materials to construct new buildings and biomatter to fuel the rig, meet new characters, craft new equipment, and catch new fish, you may uncover the truth behind their potentially nefarious operations.</p>
<p class="">We hope you continue to enjoy your time in Dredge, and we can’t wait to share these new updates and adventures with you. Happy fishing!</p>
</div>',
                'None'
            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/05/02/neill-blomkamp-qa-gran-turismo-director-talks-inspiration-and-more/',
                'Neill Blomkamp Q&A: Gran Turismo director talks inspiration and more',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/05/a3215b3242746f4ed7d45e7a5757054dc0b5ca18.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">We were fortunate enough to sit down with famed sci-fi director Neill Blomkamp to discuss how he adapted the legendary racing simulator, the innovative camerawork devised to capture all the action on the track, and where he found inspiration from racing films of the past. </p>
<div class="shortcode shortcode--youtube">
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<p class=""><strong>PlayStation Blog: The Gran Turismo Movie is a notable departure from previous films you’ve directed—it’s not based on one of your screenplays, nor is it dystopian sci-fi. What drew you to this project?</strong></p>
<p class=""><strong>Neill Blomkamp: </strong>So, it’s actually a dystopian science fiction script I sold to Sony that started the conversation. As the pre-production process went on I started to get very eager just to work on <em>something</em>, and at that point they said, “How about Gran Turismo?” My first thought was, “Wait, how do you make a film out of a racing simulator?” But I read the screenplay, and I personally own three [Nissan] R35 GTRs—I have a personal obsession with Nissan and the whole Nismo lineage—so I was immediately intrigued as a car lover. </p>
<p class="">I’ve also been very close to video games in a lot of ways throughout my career, and I had never come across something like <em>Gran Turismo</em> where the movie itself treats the game <em>as a game</em>. It’s based on a true story about Jann Mardenborough who learned to drive playing the game before driving professionally in real life, competing against other real drivers. It’s just an amazing story. </p>
<p class="">Another reason I signed on was because my stuff tends to be a lot darker and more dystopian, as you mentioned, but this movie felt, well, very inspirational. It had never crossed my mind that I would direct a movie where the audience would leave the theater feeling uplifted and inspired. This was really appealing to me.</p>
<p class=""><strong>Are there any particular creative challenges—or benefits—to working within an IP like this? </strong></p>
<p class="">One great thing is that there weren’t a bunch of executives who would say, “Well, actually, we think it should be like <em>this.</em>” If you’re working on another IP with a more established universe or narrative everyone has preconceived ideas about how things should be. But, with Gran Turismo, you have a well-known IP that doesn’t carry these preconceived notions about what its film adaptation should look like. This gave me a ton of creative freedom to just go out and, you know, make it. </p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52862391788_95d8b3fbcd_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52862391788_95d8b3fbcd_h.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>Without an established plotline or fictional universe to draw on, in what ways did you pay homage to the game? How did you extract the game’s DNA into something recognizable for a film?</strong></p>
<p class="">For one, the film tries to take you along the journey of someone who first experienced these legendary tracks virtually, and then took what they learned within a simulation and applied it to a real-life scenario. And so, I tried to visually connect those two points together using a lot of the imagery from the GT games, like the lines you’d take driving the track and the markers and checkpoints, as well as the awards for leveling up and things like that. </p>
<p class="">And then there are a whole bunch of smaller easter eggs—tiny moments like recreating some of the in-game victory poses that we got our actors to do in the movie. There’s also a ton of cool cars for gearheads to spot as well; we did our best to drop interesting cars all over the place whenever we could.</p>
<p class=""><strong>On that note, what are some of your favorite cars that make an appearance? </strong></p>
<p class="">I mean, there’s a Generation 1 NSX at the beginning of the film, which is a big deal for me. I have a lot of love for that car. </p>
<p class="">And at the other end of the spectrum, we also wanted some really glitzy choices that would be true easter eggs for car lovers—like the Koenigsegg Gemera, a still-unreleased car, a 4-seater with 1700 horsepower. It’s kind of like a Bugatti Rolls Royce.</p>
<p class=""><strong>From the limited clips we’ve seen so far, it looks like some of the cinematography directly references the in-game chase camera. We also get glimpses of a pretty serious looking rig to film the cars at high speeds. Can you walk us through your process here?</strong></p>
<p class="">Well, it really came down to creating something that would just be cool to watch on a large cinema screen, and for that we doubled down on FPV drones to carry IMAX sensor-approved cameras. There’s a ton of airborne, high-speed drone work in the film, and we utilized a pursuit-arm mounted to a high-speed vehicle. In this case, we actually mounted it to an R35 GTR, which could actually keep pace (pretty much) with a lot of the GT3 cars in the film.</p>
<p class="">So between that car and the drone work, you already have some cool dynamic angles. But, I was also obsessed with recreating camera angles players know from the game: so, for the third-person chase perspective, we built an R1 rig that could position a camera such that the entire car would fit within the frame. </p>
<p class="">To capture the driver’s POV (cockpit view), our stunt driver would lie back so we could mount a camera where his head should be. We liked including nods to the game in these kinds of ways.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52861954591_4516d2e3a9_5k.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52861954591_4516d2e3a9_5k.jpg"/></a>
<p class=""><strong>There’s a rich history of movies that depict the on- and off-track drama of motorsport, from classics like </strong><strong><em>Le Mans </em></strong><strong>and </strong><strong><em>Gran Prix </em></strong><strong>to the more recent </strong><strong><em>Ford vs. Ferrari. </em></strong><strong>Which films in the genre did you look to for inspiration, if any?</strong></p>
<p class="">The one film that I can genuinely point to and say is directly referenced in <em>Gran Turismo </em>is Steve McQueen’s <em>Le Mans. </em>That movie is insane. You can tell how fast they’re going. You can tell how dangerous it is. You can even tell how <em>polluting </em>the cars are. It’s amazing.</p>
<p class="">In the beginning of that movie, they spend a ton of time pushing in on each character before the race—the hero, the villain, the clock—and then it starts rapidly cross-cutting between them. There’s a very similar sequence in our film with our protagonist and his opponents that was directly inspired by the McQueen classic.</p>
<p class="">Usually there’s someone exploding or some, like, genetically mutated creature running amok in my films. I just never would have thought in a trillion years that I would have made a race/sports movie. It’s even surprising now, saying it.</p>
<hr class="ps-block-separator"/>
<p class=""><a href="https://www.playstation.com/games/gran-turismo-7/?smcid=ma">Gran Turismo 7 is now available on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4</a>, as well as PlayStation VR2 following a free update earlier this year. </p>
<p class="">Gran Turismo arrives exclusively in theaters this August.</p>
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            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/05/02/convergence-a-league-of-legends-story-reimagining-zaun/',
                'Convergence: A League of Legends Story reimagining Zaun',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/05/072d1d1154a8eef4e033f4689331b926a8e21e6e-scaled.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">My name is Eric Angelillo, I’m the Creative Director and Co-Art Director for Convergence: A League of Legends Story. I also co-founded Double Stallion games 10 years ago with a mission to create vibrant &amp; transcendent experiences with players all around the world. I love making bold action games with vibrant stylized visuals inspired by the very best of animation and comics. I believe great games are made when art and interactivity perfectly intersect.</p>
<p class="">From the start, our goal with Convergence was to showcase Zaun not just as the dark, polluted metropolis it’s usually portrayed as, but rather as a vivid, lively city teeming with colors, characters, and wonders waiting to be discovered. By seeing Zaun through Ekko’s eyes, we aimed to reflect his own perspective on his home – a city of progress and a playground for adventure.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843734916_44f0aa92af_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843734916_44f0aa92af_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">Our unique approach to the Art Direction was informed by framing everything through Ekko’s perspective. We expressed this through 3 core art pillars; BOLD, ELECTRIC and VIBRANT. Riot Forge provided guidance on portraying technology, fashion, and other elements, but we were ultimately able to express our own creative vision.</p>
<p class="">Staying true to Zaun’s technology and architectural style was a priority, but we pushed the envelope with colors, design shapes, line art, and more. Comic books served as a significant source of inspiration, leading us to incorporate heavy lineart, black inked shadows, and color halftones. The use of halftones not only posed an exciting challenge but also helped make foreground elements truly pop.</p>
<p class="">Centering the experience in Zaun, Ekko’s home, we sought to explore its diversity by creating a variety of exciting locales – streets, sewers, factories, carnivals, gardens, and more. The Cultivair, a large enclosed garden from League’s lore, offered a refreshing change from the urban settings and became a focal point in the game.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52844184028_d56bcefb68_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52844184028_d56bcefb68_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">Drawing from short stories and comics about Zaun and its Champions, we featured environments like Factorywood, which was mentioned in a story about Ekko, and created new locations like the train-like Chaincrawler. Convergence presented an excellent opportunity to expand upon Zaun’s environment, which had not been fully explored in the MOBA.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843734826_bae76b7edd_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52843734826_bae76b7edd_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">As the city of Zaun is home to so many amazing champions, we sprinkled in easter eggs throughout the game that reference the undercity’s most famous denizens. We hope fans will enjoy discovering these hidden gems.</p>
<p class="">In order to make Zaun feel like a bustling city, we prioritized having multiple layers of parallaxing assets in our 2D game. This allowed us to create depth and make environments feel immersive. Additionally, we made it a priority to keep the world feeling lively by having constant on-screen movement, whether it’s steam, dripping water, flickering lights, or little critters scurrying about.</p>
<a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52844138790_5696bf6f2b_h.jpg" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="1080" src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52844138790_5696bf6f2b_h.jpg" width="1920"/></a>
<p class="">Through our 2D environmental storytelling, we’ve aimed to stay true to the League of Legends world while presenting a fresh, vibrant take on the city of Zaun. We’re incredibly proud of Convergence and can’t wait for players to experience it firsthand.</p>
<p class="">——————————————————————————————-</p>
<p class="">Developed by Double Stallion Games, Convergence: A League Of Legends Story is a story-driven, single-player 2D action platformer featuring dynamic combat and unique exploration opportunities thanks to Ekko’s ability to travel through space and time. Rewind your actions to learn from your mistakes and outsmart each new enemy. Will it be enough to save Zaun’s future?</p>
<p class="">Convergence: A League Of Legends Story releases May 23, 2023.</p>
</div>',
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            );

            
            INSERT INTO articles (url, title, cover_image, content, youtube_link) VALUES (
                'https://blog.playstation.com/2023/05/03/chrono-odyssey-new-gameplay-details-on-the-upcoming-ps5-mmorpg/',
                'Chrono Odyssey: new gameplay details on the upcoming PS5 MMORPG',
                'https://blog.playstation.com/tachyon/2023/05/a659dcca6902a887b16722e3f13035d12903fd37-scaled.jpg?resize=1088%2C612&crop_strategy=smart',
                '<div class="post-single__content single__content entry-content">
<p class="">Hi PlayStation gamers! I’m Samuel, the PD of Chrono Studio. To all who have been eagerly awaiting Chrono Odyssey, we are thrilled to finally unveil our second trailer giving you an in-depth look at the gameplay itself. </p>
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<p class="">At Chrono Studio, we are more than just developers – we are avid gamers who share a passion for epic titles and we believe that MMORPGs are more than just games – they are gateways to unforgettable experiences formed through shared adventures and challenges. Our vision for Chrono Odyssey is to continue the legacy of beloved MMORPGs that have stood the test of time. At first glance Chrono Odyssey may seem like your typical MMORPG, but what sets Chrono Odyssey apart from the rest is its unparalleled graphics, made by the UE5 engine and our accumulated expertise. We have also elevated combat to new heights by incorporating the Chrono (time) element, which serves as the core of the game’s universe, as well as the real-time MMO content enjoyed by hundreds of players to provide a dynamic social experience unlike any other. </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNDJhN2MzOTU3MDg5M2JhZjQ2YjYyZTY0ZmIzZTMwODY1MmVmZTJhMyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/sPsvmHYyAXZ3U4Bivs/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExNDJhN2MzOTU3MDg5M2JhZjQ2YjYyZTY0ZmIzZTMwODY1MmVmZTJhMyZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/sPsvmHYyAXZ3U4Bivs/giphy.gif"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The open-world of Setera</h2>
<p class="">Step into the breathtaking world of Setera, an open-world wilderness that transports you to a world that feels ever-changing. Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery which transforms with each passing season, with a realism that captures the essence of a living and breathing environment.</p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExOTE0NWUwZDJkYWRjYTU3Zjg0ODFmNzBlN2M1NmEyOWZkZGRkNGI2YiZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/YYWpOXibA9o9xzexhE/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://media4.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExOTE0NWUwZDJkYWRjYTU3Zjg0ODFmNzBlN2M1NmEyOWZkZGRkNGI2YiZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/YYWpOXibA9o9xzexhE/giphy.gif"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Combat</h2>
<p class="">Combat is a thrilling experience that demands both unpredictability and control. Master the basics of attack, defense, dodge, and switch seamlessly between multiple weapons in real-time to gain the upper hand in battle. But be prepared for the unexpected – the enemy’s attack patterns are as varied as they are deadly, adding an extra layer of tension to each encounter. So stay on your toes, hone your skills, and embrace the excitement of combat.</p>
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<p class="">Choose from six distinct classes – Swordsman, Ranger, Sorcerer, Paladin, Berserker, and Assassin – as you embark on your epic journey. And don’t forget to make your mark with character customization options like gender and appearance, allowing you to express your unique personality and create a personalized combat style that is truly your own.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The power of time</h2>
<p class="">The enigmatic power of the Chronotector holds the key to unlocking the full potential of your journey. As you venture through the game’s world, you’ll come to understand the symbolic importance of Chrono – a force that not only drives the storyline but also plays a pivotal role in combat and progression. With the ability to manipulate time and space, you’ll be able to stop time, rewind events, and explore other timelines and overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. </p>
<p class="center"><a href="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExZDQ0ZTgxYWNjYWVmNTQyZGMwNjkyZjY5MTg3MjNlZWU5Mzc3NDBlNSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/Ti1IxGTQBKExcISBDF/giphy.gif" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExZDQ0ZTgxYWNjYWVmNTQyZGMwNjkyZjY5MTg3MjNlZWU5Mzc3NDBlNSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/Ti1IxGTQBKExcISBDF/giphy.gif"/></a></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Teamwork takes the lead</h2>
<p class="">Prepare to engage in epic battles alongside hundreds of other players, where strategy, skill, and teamwork determines the outcome. Whether you’re facing off against colossal beasts or competing for dominance against other factions, you’ll need to bring your all and find trusted allies to support you in your quest for victory. And when the time comes to confront the massive Eltanius – one of many powerful bosses within the game world – be sure to come prepared for the ultimate test of strength and will.</p>
<p class="">We are thrilled by your interest in our ambitious project, and we cannot wait to share the results of our hard work with you soon when Chrono Odyssey launches on PS5. Thank you for your support!</p>
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