Nvidia’s DLSS 5 neural rendering tech, AKA the AI filter which was widely criticised upon reveal earlier this year for creepily yassifying a bunch of game characters’ faces, is reportedly up and running prior to its planned release later this year. The folks to thank or blame for this are modders, who’ve found the files needed to get the tech’s neural rendering working in Control.
**Title: Debate Ignited at the Pokémon World Championships: Banned Competitors Stir Controversy**
This weekend, the Pokémon World Championships and Pokémon XP fan convention are attracting competitive participants to San Francisco for what is anticipated to be the pinnacle of the Pokémon calendar year. Nonetheless, the event has been overshadowed by controversy as prominent players, including ex-world champion Luca Ceribelli, find themselves banned from participation due to an incident involving line-cutting at the Pokémon Center merchandise booth.
Ceribelli, along with other competitors Ruben Gianzini and Luca Lussignoli, reportedly had their event credentials revoked following accusations of bypassing the line. Ceribelli asserts that their actions were driven by concerns for Gianzini, who allegedly has a disability that causes discomfort in busy settings. In a comprehensive statement, Ceribelli voiced their dissatisfaction with the situation, stressing their belief that they were guaranteed a reprint of their passes, enabling them to enter the championship.
The confiscation of their credentials has resulted in the players being barred from the event, prompting Ceribelli to label the situation as unfair. He recounted a disheartening encounter with on-site personnel, who allegedly stated that nothing could be done to retrieve the lost passes. Ceribelli, who had prepared for months and eagerly anticipated returning to compete after a long hiatus from tournaments, has felt profoundly impacted by this ordeal.
Ceribelli’s prior accomplishments in the Pokémon community intensify the attention surrounding this incident. He triumphed in the Masters Division World Championship in 2024, rendering his ban particularly significant and instigating discussions within the community regarding the equity and consistency of the established rules. The event has sparked online responses from fans and commentators alike, raising alarms about how the Pokémon Company addresses disputes related to player behavior.
Critics of the Pokémon Company have highlighted that penalizing a former world champion for what they regard as a relatively minor offense projects a questionable representation. Many argue that a more lenient stance could have been warranted, especially considering Ceribelli’s status and the context of the incident. Social media has been flooded with comments, with individuals expressing outrage at the ruling and questioning the management of events designed to honor the Pokémon community.
As the situation develops, inquiries have been directed to the Pokémon Center for clarification, and numerous attendees are keenly observing to see how the organization will react. The ongoing conversation regarding the treatment of players, particularly those with notable accomplishments, indicates that the fallout from this incident could extend well beyond this single event.
The Pokémon community remains hopeful for updates, whether they might lead to a reassessment of the bans or provide further clarity on the procedures that resulted in this controversial decision.
Update 28/8: Valve appear to have taken action, changing the game’s rating – the storepage can now be accessed in the UK. “It looks like Steam re-reviewed Future? No Thanks! and removed the ‘frequent nudity or adult content’ reverting the Germany geo-ban and the age verification by credit card in the UK,” Paolo Perdicini writes on Bluesky. “It officially has only ‘some nudity or adult content’ as every good game should.”
The Cutting Room Floor (TCRF) is a well-known wiki focused on saving unused material and unreleased versions from video games. Founded in 2002, TCRF has built an extensive collection of gaming knowledge, supported by a committed group of volunteers. However, the website is currently down due to a DDoS attack, which TCRF believes is linked to actions from a specific AI user involving Claude Code.
In a significant move against AI systems that gather content, TCRF has introduced unique anti-AI visuals that display when the site is accessed using AI tools such as ChatGPT. This artwork, created in MS Paint, prominently features messages like “AI loser detected!” and calls out users trying to interact with the platform via AI. TCRF has taken a strong stance against what they refer to as “video-coded AI slop,” which influences their engagement with automated technologies.
The recent DDoS event seems to have been sparked by a user who reportedly was banned from TCRF for using AI tools. This user subsequently created a false narrative surrounding their experience, alleging that the AI had caused severe damage to their system and lodging multiple abuse complaints against the site. TCRF’s homepage notes that this action appeared to coincide with the user’s ban, indicating that the DDoS was an attempted act of retaliation.
TCRF’s team conveyed their annoyance, particularly stressing that the person involved has a history of troublesome actions related to AI. In social media discussions, TCRF emphasized the individual’s dubious perspectives on consent and their public acknowledgments of exploiting online platforms and networks for personal advantage.
At present, TCRF has not released a specific date for the site’s return but assures users that the server is still operational and functioning well. Access to the site is limited only until the DDoS incidents subside. The situation has ignited conversations within the gaming community, prompting greater scrutiny of the actions and ethics of individuals who support or utilize AI tools in similar scenarios.
This incident has prompted legal considerations surrounding defamation and the responsibilities of people using online services, further complicating the realms of internet ethics and gaming community interactions. Reactions from both TCRF management and affected individuals continue to evolve, adding to ongoing discussions about the intersection of AI technology and community standards in gaming.
Attention, dusty creeps who want to play poker with the Wickerman! I found one, a videogame you might enjoy. That game is Hillthorn, a spooky investigative cardgame from Fool Moon and Finnegan Motors – the latter also known for beaming corpo thriller Inhuman Resources: A Literary Machination.
Hillthorn is the story of a detective hired to investigate a disappearance at a secluded mountain community. One of the first things you do, after hassling a worryingly stained forest ranger for directions, is cross a line of salt on the trail. Seems like something a person familiar with the occult would avoid doing, but you are a Private Eye, armed with logic and cynicism. Besides, all of this is presented via the medium of cards. Who’s afraid of cards? What are they going to do, give you a paper cut? Ouch! Oh, maybe don’t bleed on the salt.
**Analyzing the Progression of Vice City: From GTA Vice City to GTA 6**
On Thursday, Rockstar Games revealed a much-awaited gameplay trailer for *Grand Theft Auto 6*, providing fans with nearly 30 minutes of captivating in-game footage. The game features a remarkable open-world setting reminiscent of the iconic *Vice City*, a fictionalized version of Miami, Florida. As the franchise revisits this cherished location 24 years after the debut of *GTA Vice City* on the PlayStation 2, it is intriguing to examine how drastically technology and game design have evolved since that time.
Originally launched in 2002, *GTA Vice City* swiftly transformed into a cultural sensation, enchanting players with its vibrant universe, intriguing story arcs, and nostalgic 1980s atmosphere. The game’s visual aesthetics were revolutionary for its era, yet when compared to the graphics of *GTA 6*, the disparities are tremendous. The graphical technology utilized in contemporary consoles has considerably elevated the details and realism in gaming landscapes, greatly surpassing the limitations of the PS2.
Through a collection of comparative screenshots from the gameplay trailer alongside scenes from both the original *Vice City* and its PC adaptation, it is clear that *GTA 6* exhibits a level of visual quality that seemed unimaginable two decades prior. In numerous scenes, such as a dilapidated trailer park—a location that aims to echo Florida’s varied terrain—the contrast in texture quality, lighting, and overall environmental intricacy is astonishing. Advanced game engines, including Rockstar’s unique RAGE engine, have equipped developers to craft environments that feel more vibrant and genuine.
Furthermore, social venues like dance clubs in *GTA 6* reveal a marked increase in crowd density and interactivity compared to the relatively empty ambiance of the Malibu Club in *Vice City*. This lively depiction of nightlife enhances player immersion, making the world appear dynamic and inhabited.
Although *GTA Vice City* was commendable for its time, playing a game on PS2 today exposes stark limitations in graphical prowess and environmental richness. The timeline of development also emphasizes the advancements in game design, with *GTA Vice City* taking around a year to develop in contrast to almost a decade for *GTA 6*. This prolonged development timeframe has permitted Rockstar to enhance their technology and narrative, culminating in a game that not only presents improved visuals but also potentially delivers a deeper and more intricate storytelling experience.
Lastly, the evolution of gameplay mechanics, such as police pursuits, illustrates a significant transformation in design. Players can anticipate far more advanced AI and an array of new interactions in *GTA 6*, fostering scenarios that are not only visually striking but also more engaging for players seeking thrill in the streets of Vice City.
As *Grand Theft Auto 6* gears up for its release on PS5 and Xbox this November, it serves as a benchmark for the remarkable progress in the gaming sector over the last twenty years. The juxtaposition between the 2002 classic and the forthcoming title highlights the unwavering pursuit of innovation in game development and the lasting legacy of the *GTA* franchise.
I suppose, in a way, I asked for this. Crouched and cowering behind a garden fence, inches away from the thrashing, cleaver-faced miscreation who’d quite comfortably win in a fight against my splintering plank of rotten wood, I can almost hear Silent Hill: Townfall whisper mocking in my ear: not too much combat now, eh?
### The Unusual Soundscape of RPG Combat Themes
Earlier today, my partner ignited a wave of nostalgia discussing the 2007 Xbox 360 RPG *Blue Dragon*, which is poised to get an unofficial PC port soon. This game, crafted by the legendary Nobuo Uematsu, renowned for his contributions to the *Final Fantasy* series, showcases intriguing musical selections that challenge standard RPG norms. The battle theme captured my interest with its distinctive fusion of rock elements and whimsical lyrics, reminiscent of a vibrant anime opening.
RPGs are celebrated for their immersive narratives and captivating gameplay, but the musical score is vital in enhancing player engagement. Below are some quirky and inventive battle themes from a variety of RPGs illustrating how music can enhance the gaming experience.
#### OFF – *Pepper Steak*
The battle theme *Pepper Steak* from the indie RPG *OFF* distinguishes itself with its haunting swing and disconcerting rhythms. The game’s storyline revolves around a baseball player cleansing a grotesque world populated by ghosts, and the music aligns perfectly with this strange narrative. While Toby Fox and Camelia are preparing to craft a new theme for the remake, the original *Pepper Steak* continues to resonate with players due to its eerie, dissonant melodies.
#### Deep in Coma – *Shadow Hearts: Covenant*
The battle theme in *Shadow Hearts: Covenant* is a frenetic composition that features during encounters in Japan within the game. Those new to the narrative might find it striking how this energetic soundtrack accompanies standard battles, adding an unexpected depth of intensity to conventional RPG conflicts.
#### Fit Battle – *Ring Fit Adventure*
Nintendo’s *Ring Fit Adventure* showcases *Fit Battle*, a theme that embodies the essence of exercising through its lively, encouraging sound. While traditional battle themes tend to be intense, this track resonates with players in a refreshing, cheerful manner.
#### New Age Retro Hippie – *Earthbound*
The memorable battle theme *New Age Retro Hippie* in *Earthbound* is fundamentally a whimsical interpretation of the classic *Johnny B. Goode* by Chuck Berry, infusing encounters with hippie foes with a sense of absurdity. The music licensing hurdles that *Earthbound* encountered only augment the eclectic character of its soundtrack, marking this as a standout selection for unconventional battle music.
#### Transformation – *The World Ends With You*
The bold soundtrack in *The World Ends With You* includes the battle theme *Transformation*, which was originally a boss theme but becomes a regular feature during battles in Week 3. The series’ rock and pop style presents a refreshing shift from standard RPG soundscapes, offering players an energetic backdrop to their frequent encounters.
#### Battle Theme – *Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars*
A charming alternative to intense battle music, the theme from *Super Mario RPG* feels more fitting for a lighthearted minigame than for typical RPG conflict. Its cheerful arrangement keeps players engaged, making battles appear less threatening and more enjoyable.
#### Mime Battle – *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*
In *Clair Obscur*, the Mime battles boast a whimsical soundtrack that remains enjoyable despite the repetitiveness of their foes. The abundance of mimes presents an unusual approach to combat, underscored by the quirky music.
#### Chaotic Dance – *Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean*
Even though *Chaotic Dance* isn’t an official battle theme, its exuberant energy and playful composition make it a notable inclusion in any list of unconventional RPG music. This track exemplifies the range of creativity present within RPG soundtracks.
### Conclusion
As *Blue Dragon* prepares for its PC launch, it serves as a reminder that RPG battle themes can transcend the usual, providing memorable auditory experiences. Ranging from the eerie to the outright peculiar, the music found within these games enriches their stories and establishes a distinctive atmosphere that players value. It’s worth lauding these unconventional compositions as we revisit nostalgic gaming moments. Enjoy exploring these soundscapes, and have a wonderful weekend!
Still part of the meta, as long as it has the Voodoo ability.
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The era of generative AI has kindled an era of generative AI witchhunts. It’s routine right now for videogame developers to fend off accusations of using the technology, even when they are full-throated in their disapproval of ChatGPT, Claude and their ilk. Recent examples include Sandustry, the 2D factory builder from Hooded Horse with strangely haunting physics, and the just-announced Humankind 2, whose creators Amplitude have rushed to assure players that their announcement trailer is genuine live action film.
The conversation reflects a shifting idea of what AI-generated imagery ‘looks like’ – shifting because, strictly speaking, AI-generated imagery has no fixed style or quality. It’s derived from whatever data the model is ‘fed’. The confusion is exacerbated by the fact that the technology is changing, with new or updated buzzwordy tools being added to the pile. Established hallmarks of generated imagery go out of date fast. Meanwhile, generative AI’s advocates muddy the waters, conflating tools and framing their capabilities in ludicrously open-ended, investor-baiting terms. Still, some responsibility falls on regular users who’ve become accustomed to chucking around claims of “AI slop”.
