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GameMaker says AI coding is inevitable, Sony clarifies DRM confusion, and how video games are helping Rikers inmates - Patch Notes #50
This week's Patch Notes covers several key industry developments, including GameMaker's integration of AI coding assistance, Sony's clarification on PlayStation DRM updates, and the use of video games for inmate rehabilitation at Rikers. The article also touches on Ustwo CEO Maria Sayans' comments regarding job security, the closure of Spiders studio, and changes to GitHub Copilot's billing model.
Original Xbox 360 Boot Screen Triggers Gaming Nostalgia Wave | HappyGamer
A viral tweet showcasing the original Xbox 360 startup screen has sparked a wave of nostalgia among gamers, reminiscing about the console's design and the era of online gaming. The article contrasts the 360's deliberate and elegant boot sequence with the faster but more cluttered interfaces of modern consoles like the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5, arguing that current designs prioritize engagement metrics over player experience.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 Takes Off Into PSVR2 Today With Free Update | HappyGamer
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 has received a free update for PlayStation VR2, allowing players to experience the simulation in virtual reality. The update, launched today, brings the game's detailed cockpits and expansive world to the PSVR2 headset. This release is highlighted as a significant addition to the console VR library, offering a deep and polished simulation experience at no extra cost to existing owners.
GTA 6 Fans Hit Another Wave of Disappointment in Endless Wait | HappyGamer
Fans are experiencing waves of disappointment and anticipation regarding the release of Grand Theft Auto VI, highlighting Rockstar Games' unique position in the industry. The studio's reputation for quality leads to extended development cycles and sustained fan interest, contrasting with the rapid release schedules of other publishers.
Project Helix Will Receive a “Closer Look” on May 7th in First Xbox Game Dev Update
Microsoft's Xbox division will provide a closer look at Project Helix during its first Xbox Game Dev Update on May 7th, hosted by Chris Charla and Jason Ronald. While not a full reveal, the update is expected to discuss details from GDC, including development kits shipping in 2027, and potential new opportunities for game development. Rumors suggest Project Helix is targeting a 2027 holiday season launch to compete with Sony's PlayStation 6.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 Gets PlayStation VR2 Support, Career Mode Improvements
Asobo Studio has released Sim Update 5 for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, introducing PlayStation VR2 support and significant improvements to the career mode. The update also includes performance optimizations and fixes for AMD Radeon RX 9000-series graphics cards. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.
Virtual Reality Check
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 has received a new update that adds support for PlayStation VR2. The update is now available for players to download. The article also briefly mentions the launch trailer for Birdseed VR 1.0.
Buffs, Nerfs, and Bugs
A recent patch for the pirate RPG Sea of Thieves aims to improve performance and address issues with excessive disk writing that were impacting SSD lifespan. The update promises smoother gameplay for players.
Evening Tech Bits
Microsoft has begun rolling out 'Xbox Mode' to players on Windows 11 PCs, aiming to improve the gaming experience on the operating system. This feature is intended to optimize performance and provide a more integrated gaming environment for users.
ROG Xbox Ally Drops a Handful of Updates That Brings Improved Docking, Auto Super Resolution, and an
Microsoft and ASUS have released new updates for the ASUS ROG Ally and ROG Ally X handheld PCs, focusing on player feedback. These updates improve the TV docking experience with automatic smart TV enhancements and controller pairing, introduce an Auto Super Resolution feature for sharper visuals on larger screens, and refresh the Xbox PC App to consolidate games from various storefronts into a single library.
The new 'Xbox mode' for Windows 11 has arrived, but don't get your hopes up for performance improvements:…
Microsoft has begun rolling out its new Xbox mode for Windows 11, offering a controller-optimized, full-screen gaming experience. While intended to make jumping into games easier across various devices, early impressions suggest it may not significantly improve performance. The feature aims to create a more consistent Xbox experience across different platforms.
Elder Scrolls Online vet hates when people call the MMO a "WoW clone" since "you're not going to have fun at all" if you play it like Blizzard's game
Former The Elder Scrolls Online director Matt Firor expressed frustration with comparisons of ESO to World of Warcraft, stating that approaching the game like a 'WoW clone' leads to a poor experience. Firor emphasized that while both are MMORPGs, ESO's systems are fundamentally different from WoW's, and players should engage with it as an Elder Scrolls title to enjoy its strengths, particularly its story.
ROG Xbox Ally Gets Major Docking Update for Better TV Gaming | HappyGamer
Microsoft has released significant updates for the ROG Ally, enhancing its docked gaming experience to rival traditional consoles. These updates include automatic TV display switching, smart TV integration for gaming modes, and a preview of Auto Super Resolution technology for Xbox Insiders. The changes aim to reduce friction between handheld and console play, making docked mode a primary use case.
Professional Content Creator RectWizard Fire & Ice RGX 2026 Guest of Honor
Professional Content Creator RectWizard has been announced as a Guest of Honor for the Fire & Ice RGX 2026 gaming event. The event will feature various industry talent, including voice actors, musicians, and content creators, and will take place from June 20 to June 21 in Roseville, CA. The article also briefly mentions recent updates and releases for Grand Theft Auto Online, Chaos Zero Nightmare, skate., Steam to Electric, Mullet Madjack, and Truck-kun is Supporting Me from Another World?!
Xbox Mode Arrives on Windows 11 PCs with Controller-Focused Full-Screen UI; I Guess That's Cool?
Microsoft has begun rolling out Xbox Mode for Windows 11 PCs, introducing a full-screen, controller-focused user interface. This mode integrates the user's game library, including Xbox Game Pass titles and games from other PC storefronts, into a simplified layout designed for easier navigation with a controller.
You can now choose which games use Quick Resume on Xbox
Microsoft has introduced an update allowing Xbox users to select which games utilize the Quick Resume feature. This update also includes other enhancements for both consoles and the Xbox PC app.
Popular Xbox Game on PS5 Surprise Drops Free Update Fans Asked For
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 has received a free update adding PlayStation VR2 support, a feature long requested by fans. The update allows players to experience over 125 aircraft in first-person virtual reality on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 5 Pro.
Xbox Mode Begins Rolling Out to Players on Windows 11 PCs Today
Microsoft is rolling out a new 'Xbox mode' to Windows 11 PCs, offering a console-inspired, controller-optimized full-screen experience for gaming. This feature aims to make jumping into games easier on desktops, laptops, and handheld PCs, integrating with Xbox Game Pass and other PC storefronts.
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma, who took the job less than 3 months ago, says 'player and revenue growth has not yet met our ambition' as Microsoft gaming continues to slide
New Xbox CEO Asha Sharma acknowledged that player and revenue growth has not met the company's ambitions, following a 7% decrease in Microsoft's gaming revenue for Q3 FY26. Despite a decline in Xbox content and services, and a significant drop in hardware sales, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella highlighted record monthly active Xbox users and game streaming hours while emphasizing foundational work to win back fans.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 PS VR2 update now available
The PlayStation VR2 update for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is now available for PlayStation 5 users. This update brings virtual reality support to the popular flight simulation game, allowing players to experience flight in an immersive VR environment.