STORY™ : Video Game Magazine

CONTENTS Elden Ring

Elden Ring merges the dark, atmospheric world-building forging a breathtaking realm where players embark on a perilous journey of discovery, battles, and unraveling the mysteries of a shattered world.

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Detroit: Become Human

Complex moral dilemmas as they guide the lives of androids striving for freedom. and self-awareness, ultimately shaping the destiny of an entire city.

Life Is Strange

Emotionally charged journey where choices matter.

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God of War Ragnarök The journey of Kratos and Atreus.

The Last Of Us 2

SECTIONS

Weaving a compelling tale of survival, revenge, and the enduring power of human connection.

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About Games & Character

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First Look

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Game of The Year

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Developer Bio & Santa Monica

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GAME INDEX

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The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Red Dead Redemption 2 Mass Effect series The Last of Us series BioShock series Fallout: New Vegas Horizon Zero Dawn Heavy Rain Deus Ex: Human Revolution Dragon Age: Origins Life is Strange series Detroit: Become Human Firewatch NieR: Automata Persona 5 The Walking Dead series (Telltale

Life is Strange 2 Sean and Daniel adventure. testing their bond and challenging their identities, while grappling with the power of supernatural abilities.

Games) Oxenfree What Remains of Edith Finch Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Disco Elysium

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

the legendary monster hunter Geralt of Rivia, navigating morally complex choices, engaging in thrilling combat, and embarking on a breathtaking quest to find his adopted daughter.

Horizon: Zero Dawn In a post-apocalyptic world, the huntress Aloy defies the machine-dominated horizon, unraveling the mysteries of the past to forge her own destiny.

A Plague Tales: Requiem harrowing journey of Amicia and Hugo, as they navigate a plague-ridden medieval France

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HOGWARTS LEGACY C

reating AAA story-driven games is a complex and collaborative pr ocess that involves several key components.

Here is a general overview of the steps and considerations involved in making such games .

Concept and Design: The development team begins by brainstorming and conceptualizing ideas for the game’s story, setting, characters, and gameplay mechanics.

They consider the target audience, market trends, and the overall vision for the game.

Story and Narrative Design: A dedicated team of writers, narrative designers, and creative directors work on developing the game’s story, characters, and dialogues.

They create an engaging and immersive narrative arc, including character development, plot twists, and emotional moments.

The team may also define branching paths and multiple endings to enhance player choices and agency.

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Worldbuilding and Setting: Artists, level designers, and environment artists collaborate to create the game’s world and setting. They design and craft visually stunning environments, taking into account the game’s story and gameplay requirements.

Worldbuilding includes creating lore, history, architecture, landscapes, and other elements that contribute to the game’s atmosphere.

Gameplay Mechanics: Game designers focus on creating gameplay mechanics that complement the story and enhance player engagement.

They define core gameplay loops, player abilities, puzzles, combat systems, and any unique features that make the game stand out.

The team iterates and playtests these mechanics to ensure they are enjoyable and well-balanced.

Character Design and Development: Character artists, modelers, and animators work on designing and bringing the game’s characters

They create detailed character concepts, 3D models, textures, and animations, aiming for realistic or stylized appearances, depending on the game’s art direction.

Voice Acting and Audio Design: Casting directors select voice actors who can bring the characters’ personalities to life through their performances.

Dialogue is recorded and implemented into the game, along with sound effects and music composed by audio designers and composers.

The audio team ensures that the game’s soundscape enhances the immersion and emotional impact of the story.

Iterative Development and Testing: The development team follows an iterative process, building and refining the game based on feedback and playtesting.

Bugs and issues are identified, and adjustments are made to improve gameplay, balance, pacing, and narrative flow.

This phase often involves multiple departments working together.

Polishing and Optimization: As the game nears completion, the team focuses on polishing the overall experience.

Artists refine visuals, programmers optimize performance, and quality assurance testers rigorously test the game for bugs and glitches.

User interface elements are finetuned for clarity and usability.

Release and Post-Launch Support: The game is released to the public, often with marketing campaigns to build awareness and drive sales.

The development team continues to support the game post-launch, addressing player feedback, releasing patches, and sometimes creating additional content through downloadable content (DLC) or expansions.

Throughout the entire development process, effective collaboration, project management, and communication are crucial for ensuring the game meets the desired quality standards and delivers a compelling story-driven experience.

“THE BEAUTYOF MAKING GAMES”

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UNFORGETTABLE CHARACTERS Behind every great story game lies a cast of unforgettable characters. These digital personas breathe life into the virtual worlds, with their unique personalities, motivations, and backstories. Whether players embark on a perilous journey alongside a battle-hardened warrior, a witty rogue, or a compassionate healer, the characters they encounter forge connections and leave a lasting impact.

In the vast realm of story-driven video games, unforgettable characters hold the power to leave an indelible mark on players’ hearts and minds. These digital personas transcend the screen, forging deep connections and immersing players in their captivating journeys. Let’s delve into the reasons why memorable characters are a cornerstone of the gaming experience.

Engaging Personalities: Unforgettable characters possess compelling personalities that resonate with players. They exhibit depth, quirks, flaws, and strengths, making them relatable and human. From charismatic heroes to enigmatic anti-heroes, their multifaceted nature adds layers of complexity to the narrative and encourages players to invest emotionally in their stories.

Impactful Decision-Making: Characters that empower players to make significant choices add another layer of depth and memorability. aking characters unforgettable.

Evocative Backstories: Characters with rich and poignant backstories captivate players’ imaginations. Whether it’s a tragic past, a mysterious origin, or a quest for redemption, these narratives provide a glimpse into the characters’ motivations and drive. Understanding their past creates empathy and fuels players’ desire to see them overcome challenges and grow throughout the game.

Meaningful Relationships: Unforgettable characters often form deep and meaningful relationships within the game world. Bonds of friendship, romance, or rivalry foster emotional connections not only between characters but also between players and the virtual personas. These relationships can elicit a range of emotions, from joy and camaraderie to heartache and betrayal, further enhancing the immersive experience.

Growth and Development: Character development is a key ingredient in crafting

memorable personas. As players progress through the game, witnessing characters undergo transformative arcs, they become invested in their growth.

Characters who evolve, learn from their experiences, and confront their inner demons feel authentic and resonate with players on a personal level.

Memorable Dialogue and Voice Acting: Compelling characters are brought to life through wellcrafted dialogue and exceptional voice acting. Clever, witty, or emotionally charged lines make characters more vibrant and memorable. Talented voice actors infuse them with unique voices, accents, and tones, making their presence more impactful and immersive.

Iconic Visual Design: Visual design plays a vital role in creating unforgettable characters.

Striking appearances, distinctive costumes, and iconic visual elements make them instantly recognizable.

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LIFE IS STRANGE Immersing you in a tapestry of emotions, thought-provoking choices,

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ife is Strange is an extraordinary episodic adventure game that takes players on an emotional and thou ght-provoking journey.

Developed by Dontnod Entertainment and published by Square Enix, the game weaves a captivating narrative filled with choices, consequences, and the complexities of human existence.

Set in the fictional town of Arcadia Bay, Life is Strange follows the story of Maxine “Max” Caulfield, a young photography student who discovers she possesses the power to rewind time. As Max navigates the halls of Blackwell Academy, a prestigious high school, she reunites with her childhood friend Chloe Price and becomes entangled in a web of mystery, friendship, and personal growth.

The game’s unique blend of supernatural abilities, relatable characters, and realistic settings creates an immersive experience like no other. Players embark on a five-episode journey that explores themes of identity, friendship, love, loss, and the consequences of

The heart of Life is Strange lies in its ability to tackle sensitive and relevant topics with grace and sincerity. The game delves into the struggles faced by its characters, addressing themes such as mental health, bullying, domestic abuse, and the complexities of family dynamics.

Through its engaging storytelling, Life is Strange encourages players to contemplate these issues, fostering empathy and understanding along the way.

Beyond its compelling narrative, Life is Strange showcases a distinct art style that evokes a sense of both nostalgia and melancholy. The hand-painted visuals, coupled with a poignant soundtrack featuring indie songs, create an atmosphere that envelops players in the emotional tapestry of the game.

Central to the game’s appeal is the “Butterfly Effect” gameplay mechanic. As Max’s power to rewind time allows players to make choices and witness their consequences, every decision carries weight and ripples through the narrative.

Moreover, the bond between Max and Chloe serves as the emotional core of the story. Their friendship undergoes trials and tribulations, allowing players to witness the complexity of human relationships.

The deep connection between the two characters, forged through shared experiences and unconditional support, is one of the game’s most endearing aspects.

These choices often lead to morally ambiguous dilemmas, forcing players to grapple with their own values and priorities.

Life is Strange exemplifies the concept that even the smallest choices can have profound and unforeseen impacts on the lives of others.

Life is Strange is not merely a game; it is an interactive, introspective journey that explores the depths of human emotion and the consequences of our choices.

It invites players to question their own beliefs, empathize with the struggles of others, and contemplate the impact of their actions.

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THREE GAMES OF LIFE IS STRANGE

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Life Is Strange: Before The Storm 2017

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LIFE IS STRANGE TRUE COLORS “Life is Strange: True Colors” is an enthralling and emotionally charged narrative-driven video game developed by Deck Nine and published by Square Enix. Released in September 2021, it represents the latest addition to the beloved “Life is Strange” series, which is renowned for its poignant storytelling and engaging characters.

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EXCLUSIVE, VISUAL, AESTHETICS.”

Set in the picturesque fictional town of Haven Springs, Colorado, “True Colors” places players in the shoes of Alex Chen, a young woman who possesses the extraordinary ability of Empathy. This unique power allows her to perceive and absorb the emotions of others, transforming the emotional landscape into a vibrant and visually striking aura that envelops the characters and the environment.

This metaphysical lens into the emotional world of the characters adds depth and complexity to the storytelling, further emphasizing the game’s focus on human connections and relationships.

The game’s central narrative revolves around Alex’s quest to uncover the truth behind her brother Gabe’s mysterious death. As she unravels the secrets of Haven Springs, the player is taken on a rollercoaster of emotions, including love, loss, betrayal, and redemption. Alex’s ability to read emotions becomes a key gameplay element as she uses it to investigate the town’s dark secrets, making choices that can dramatically influence the game’s branching storyline.

Throughout this journey, players will encounter a diverse cast of memorable characters, each of whom is painstakingly developed with their own complexities, fears, and dreams.

The game’s exceptional storytelling is further enriched by its striking visual aesthetics and atmospheric music.

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RAOUL BARBET A game director should have a strong creative vision for the game and the ability to conceptualize and communicate that vision to the development team. They should possess innovative ideas, the ability to think outside the box, and a deep understanding of what makes a game engaging and unique.

Raoul Barbet is a talented video game director and writer known for his significant contributions to the gaming industry. As one of the key figures behind the creation of the critically acclaimed “Life is Strange” series, Barbet has left an indelible mark on the narrativedriven gaming landscape.

Barbet’s creative journey began with his involvement at Dontnod Entertainment, a French video game development studio. Serving as the co-director of the original “Life is Strange” game, Barbet played a pivotal role in shaping its unique vision and immersive storytelling. Alongside his creative partner Michel Koch, Barbet helped bring to life the captivating world of Arcadia Bay and its relatable characters.

Under Barbet’s direction, “Life is Strange” took players on a heartfelt and emotionally charged journey. The game explored themes of friendship, identity, love, and the consequences of choice, tackling sensitive topics with depth

Barbet’s keen storytelling instincts and his ability to create engaging characters enabled players to connect with the game on a profound level.

Beyond the success of “Life is Strange,” Barbet’s expertise in game development extends to other notable projects. He has contributed to various aspects of game design, writing, and direction, demonstrating his versatility and passion for interactive storytelling.

His commitment to crafting immersive experiences has garnered acclaim from players and critics alike.

Barbet’s dedication to his craft is evident in his attention to detail and the commitment to delivering narratives that resonate with players. His work reflects a deep understanding of the power of video games as a medium for storytelling, and he continually pushes the boundaries to create unique and meaningful experiences.

As a prominent figure in the gaming industry, Barbet’s contributions have not only influenced the “Life is Strange” series but have also inspired other developers to explore the potential of storytelling in video games. His work serves as a testament to the impact that a well-crafted narrative and memorable characters can have on players, highlighting the importance of storytelling as a fundamental pillar of game design.

Raoul Barbet’s talent, creativity, and dedication have made a lasting impact on the gaming community. Through his involvement in the development of the “Life is Strange” series and beyond, he has left an enduring legacy as a storyteller and game director, and his contributions continue to shape the evolving landscape of narrative-driven video games.

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GOD OF WAR RAGNAROK The journey of Kratos and his son, Atreus.

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“God of War Ragnarok” is an eagerly anticipated upcoming video game that serves as the sequel to the critically acclaimed “God of War” (2018).

Developed by Santa Monica Studio and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, the game continues the epic journey of Kratos, the iconic Spartan warrior, and his son Atreus as they navigate the treacherous world of Norse mythology.

Building upon the foundation set by its predecessor, “God of War Ragnarok” promises to deliver an even more immersive and emotionally charged experience.

Set in a realm on the brink of catastrophic events known as Ragnarok, the game delves deeper into the complexities of Kratos’ relationship with Atreus while exploring the weighty themes of fatherhood, legacy, and the consequences of one’s actions. Beyond the actionpacked combat, the game’s narrative-driven gameplay will

likely feature a captivating and branching storyline, allowing players to make impactful choices that shape the outcome of the game. As Kratos and Atreus journey through the Nine Realms, they will encounter a cast of memorable characters from Norse mythology, each with their own motives and agendas.

While specific plot details of “God of War Ragnarok” are being kept under wraps, fans can expect an engrossing and emotionally charged narrative that explores the consequences of Kratos’ past actions and the impending chaos of Ragnarok. The game will likely delve into the depths of Norse mythology, shedding light on iconic figures such as Thor, Odin, and Loki, and their roles in the impending apocalypse.

Overall, “God of War Ragnarok” is poised to be an epic and immersive experience that pushes the boundaries of storytelling in video games.

“THE GAME THAT GOT GAME OF THE YEAR NOMINEE God of War Ragnarök is the one to beat with 14 nominations, including Best Game, EE Game of the Year, Artistic Achievement and in both performer categories. The atmospheric action-adventure game follows Kratos in his second outing in Scandinavia as he comes to blows with a pantheon of Nordic Gods.

The God of War series began in 2005 with the original Playstation 2 game set in Ancient Greece.

This is the ninth instalment of the series and the first to be released on Playstation 5. With the latest game’s 14 nominations, the entry has become the most nominated in BAFTA history.

At the most recent The Game Awards ceremony, which was held in December 2022, God of War Ragnarök was also the most nominated game and came away with six awards, the most of any that year. But it did miss out on the Best Game award to fellow BAFTA nominee Elden Ring.

“Lost to Elden Ring but still a legendary game.”

Elden Ring has nine BAFTA nominations, in many of the same major categories. The dark fantasy role-playing game is directed by the acclaimed Dark Souls creator Hidetaka Miyazaki with a storyline

by Game of Thrones writer George R. R. Martin.

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“Embrace the shattered fragments of a forgotten world, for within the ashes of kingdoms, the Elden Ring awaits, aflame with the promise of destiny.”

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Welcome to the Elden Ring Store, a realm where imagination and reality intertwine to bring you a collection of wondrous treasures inspired by the legendary game itself. Step into a haven crafted for adventurers, dreamers, and those who seek the thrill of the unknown.

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LIFE IS STRANGE 2

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ife is Strange 2 invites you on an emotionally charged odyssey, where the fragility of human connections and the weight of profound choices intertwine to create a narrative masterpiece. Set in a world steeped in social and political turmoil, this episodic adventure immerses you in a gripping coming-of-age story that explores themes of identity, family bonds, prejudice, and the pursuit of freedom.

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FAMILY,JOURNEY, REDEMPTION”

As the journey begins, you step into the shoes of Sean Diaz, a young Mexican-American teenager grappling with the complexities of adolescence when an unimaginable tragedy strikes.

Forced to flee his hometown with his younger brother Daniel, Sean embarks on a transformative odyssey across the vast expanse of America, their destinies bound by their shared blood and an unbreakable bond.

Crucially, Life is Strange 2 harnesses the power of choice, as the decisions you make throughout the game have profound consequences on the story, the characters, and the world around you. The ethical dilemmas that arise test your moral compass and force you to weigh the impact of your actions, shaping the destiny of the Diaz brothers and those they encounter on their tumultuous journey.

Ultimately, Life is Strange 2 is an exploration of the complexities of the human condition, delving deep into the bonds of family, friendship, and sacrifice. It challenges societal norms and confronts us with uncomfortable truths, all while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit. Brace yourself for an unforgettable narrative that will leave you contemplating the power of choice, the weight of responsibility, and the unbreakable ties that bind us all in the tapestry of life.

The narrative unfurls through a meticulously crafted tapestry of compelling characters, each with their own flaws, dreams, and stories to tell. From the outcasts and misfits who offer glimpses of hope along the way, to the antagonists whose actions reflect a world torn apart by fear and prejudice, every interaction leaves an indelible mark on Sean and Daniel’s journey.

Life is Strange 2 excels in its ability to evoke a range of emotions, as it guides you through both the breathtaking beauty and the grim realities of the American landscape. From the serene solitude of dense forests to the desolation of abandoned towns, each environment serves as a reflection of the characters’ inner turmoil and the trials they face.

The vivid visuals and evocative sound design create a sensory experience that transports you to the heart of their struggles.

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Detroit: Become Human challenges societal norms and forces you to confront ethical quandaries, as you grapple with questions about the nature of free will, discrimination, and the meaning of existence. The relationships you forge and the bonds you nurture shape the destinies of both humans and androids alike, as you unravel a complex web of intrigue, conspiracies, and personal struggles.

As you delve into this multifaceted narrative, you embody the perspectives of three distinct android protagonists - Connor, Markus, and Kara - each with their own unique storylines, dilemmas, and paths to navigate. Their lives intersect amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions between humans and androids, where the fate of an entire city teeters on the brink of chaos and revolution.

At its core, Detroit: Become Human is a powerful exploration of what it truly means to be alive. It delves deep into the complex themes of identity, morality, empathy, and the consequences of choice. Every decision you make, no matter how seemingly insignificant, ripples throughout the narrative, influencing not only the fate of the characters you control but also the world they inhabit.

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The game’s meticulously crafted world captivates with its stunning visuals and attention to detail, portraying a dystopian vision of Detroit that reflects the stark divide between opulence and poverty, progress and decay. The evocative score and immersive sound design further enhance the atmospheric experience, drawing you deeper into the emotional tapestry of the characters’ lives.

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etroit: Become Human takes you on a captivating and thought-provoking journey into a near-future metropolis, where the line between humanity and artificial intelligence blurs. Set in the bustling city of Detroit, this interactive narrative adventure unfolds in a world where highly advanced androids exist to serve their human masters, but also yearn for their own freedom and self-determination.

With branching storylines and multiple endings, Detroit: Become Human offers unparalleled replayability, inviting you to explore alternative paths, uncover hidden secrets, and discover the myriad possibilities that lie within this rich and evolving narrative tapestry.

Prepare to embark on a journey that will test your empathy, challenge your perceptions, and leave you contemplating the blurred boundaries between man and machine, as you navigate the morally complex landscape of Detroit: Become Human.

ANDROIDS, REVOLUTION, HUMANITY.”

You should play Detroit: Become Human for its compelling narrative, thought-provoking themes, and immersive gameplay experience.

Here are several reasons why this game stands out and why it is worth your time

As the journey begins, you step into the shoes of Sean Diaz, a young Mexican-American teenager grappling with the complexities of adolescence when an unimaginable tragedy strikes.

Forced to flee his hometown with his younger brother Daniel, Sean embarks on a transformative odyssey across the vast expanse of America, their destinies bound by their shared blood and an unbreakable bond.

The narrative unfurls through a meticulously crafted tapestry of compelling characters, each with their own flaws, dreams, and stories to tell. From the outcasts and misfits who offer glimpses of hope along the way, to the antagonists whose actions reflect a world torn apart by fear and prejudice, every interaction leaves an indelible mark on Sean and Daniel’s journey.

Life is Strange 2 excels in its ability to evoke a range of emotions, as it guides you through both the breathtaking beauty and the grim realities of the American landscape. From the serene solitude of dense forests to the desolation of abandoned towns, each environment serves as a reflection of the characters’ inner turmoil and the trials they face.

The vivid visuals and evocative sound design create a sensory experience that transports you to the heart of their struggles.

The making of Detroit: Become Human is a testament to the collaborative efforts of a passionate team of developers, artists, writers, and musicians who aimed to create an interactive experience that pushes the boundaries of storytelling in video games. Led by the visionary director David Cage and developed

by Quantic Dream, the game’s creation involved a meticulous blend of technological innovation, artistic craftsmanship, and narrative intricacy. From its inception, the team at Quantic Dream embarked on an ambitious endeavor to create a game that would immerse players in a compelling and morally challenging narrative.

DETROIT BECOME HUMAN

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“In this desolate world, where darkness threatens to consume our souls, we will rise, armed with love’s indomitable light, for it is in our unwavering bonds that we find the strength to defy the chaos and forge a path towards redemption.”

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CD PROJEKT RED EPIC, IMMERSIVE, ENGAGING

THE WITCHER 3 WILD HUNT T

he Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an extraordinary open-world role-playing game developed by CD Projekt Red and released in 2015. Set in a dark fantasy world known as the Continent, The Witcher 3 is based on the popular book series by Andrzej Sapkowski and serves as the final installment of the critically acclaimed Witcher video game trilogy.

The Witcher 3, players take on the role of Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter known as a Witcher. Geralt possesses supernatural abilities and undergoes rigorous training from a young age to combat the various creatures that inhabit the Continent.

The game introduces players to a vast and intricately detailed world, filled with lush landscapes, bustling cities, treacherous swamps, towering mountains, and war-torn villages.

The storyline of The Witcher 3 is epic and immersive, weaving together political intrigue, personal quests, and the search for Geralt’s adopted daughter, Ciri, who is being pursued by a powerful group known as the Wild Hunt.

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The game’s combat system combines swordplay, magical abilities, and alchemy, offering players a wide range of tactical options during battles. Geralt can utilize a variety of weapons, including his trusty silver and steel swords, as well as his arsenal of magical signs that can manipulate the environment and incapacitate foes. Additionally, players can craft potions, bombs, and other alchemical items to gain an advantage in combat against the monstrous creatures they encounter.

One of the standout features of The Witcher 3 is its extraordinary attention to detail. The world is teeming with life, as NPCs go about their daily routines, wildlife roams the wilderness, and dynamic weather systems create an immersive atmosphere. The game’s graphics are stunning, showcasing breathtaking landscapes, intricate character designs, and realistic physics. Combined with a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, the game’s audiovisual presentation further enhances the sense of immersion. Beyond the main story, The Witcher 3 offers a staggering amount of side quests, contracts, and exploration opportunities.

SCENERY Starting with the lush and vibrant lands of White Orchard, players are greeted with rolling hills, orchards in bloom, and meandering rivers.

MAKING OF The making of The Witcher, both the original book series by Andrzej Sapkowski and the subsequent video game adaptations, is a fascinating and multifaceted journey that showcases the collaboration of talented individuals and the evolution of the franchise into a worldwide phenomenon.

It all began with Andrzej Sapkowski, a Polish author who crafted a dark and gritty fantasy world inspired by Slavic mythology. His book series, starting with “The Last Wish” in 1993, introduced readers to the enigmatic character of Geralt of Rivia, a Witcher with supernatural abilities who hunts monsters for a living. Sapkowski’s unique blend of complex storytelling, rich world-building, and morally ambiguous characters struck a chord with readers, garnering a loyal following in Poland and beyond. ast forward to the early 2000s when CD Projekt Red, a Polish video game development studio, acquired the rights to adapt Sapkowski’s books into video games. They released “The Witcher” in 2007, a dark and mature RPG that thrust players into Geralt’s shoes, allowing them to explore the Continent and experience the morally complex decisions he faced. The game was well-received, earning critical acclaim for its deep narrative, immersive world, and innovative combat mechanics.

From solving murder mysteries and aiding villages in distress to participating in intense card games and engaging in romantic encounters, the game is filled with diverse and engaging content that provides countless hours of gameplay.

Furthermore, The Witcher 3 features an intricate crafting and upgrading system, allowing players to create powerful weapons, armor, and other equipment by gathering resources and utilizing the services of skilled craftsmen. Players can also engage in hunting and fishing activities, engage in strategic horseback combat, and even customize Geralt’s appearance through various armor and hairstyle options.

In summary, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an extraordinary masterpiece that captivates players with its immersive world, rich storytelling, memorable characters, and exceptional attention to detail. With its vast open world, morally ambiguous choices, and compelling quests, the game offers a truly unforgettable adventure that has solidified its place as one of the greatest role-playing games of all time. Beyond the video games, The Witcher franchise expanded to other forms of media, including a popular Netflix television series that introduced Geralt’s world to an even wider audience. This cross-media success further solidified The Witcher’s status as a beloved and enduring fantasy franchise.

Building on the success of the first game, CD Projekt Red went on to release “The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings” in 2011. This sequel further refined the gameplay, introduced a branching narrative with multiple paths and endings, and showcased improved graphics that pushed the boundaries of what was possible at the time.

However, it was the release of “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” in 2015 that catapulted the franchise to new heights.

This ambitious open-world RPG became a global sensation, captivating players with its breathtaking landscapes, engrossing storyline, and unparalleled attention to detail.

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2022: GAME OF THE YEAR FromSoftware and Bandai Namco Entertainment’s smash hit Elden Ring is the latest game from the team that created the challenging yet rewarding Dark Souls series.

Elden Ring was awarded Game of the Year at the Game Developers Choice Awards on Wednesday—taking home three awards over the course of the night.

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THE FULL LIST OF AWARDS AND WINNER IS BELOW Best Debut: Stray (BlueTwelve Studio/Annapurna Interactive) Best Visual Art: Elden Ring (FromSoftware Inc./ Bandai Namco Entertainment) Best Audio: God of War Ragnarok (Santa

ELDEN RING Rise, Tarnished, and be guided by grace.

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ony Santa Monica Studio’s God of War Ragnarök also claimed high honors at the show with three awards, winning Best Audio and Best Technology—along with the Audience Award,which was selected through a public vote. God of War Ragnarök continues the story of the demigod Kratos and his son Atreus as they face down powerful foes from Norse Mythology while the world approaches Ragnarök, the world-ending cataclysmic battle.

The other big winners of the night include Stray (BlueTwelve Studio/Annapurna Interactive), which won Best Debut, IMMORTALITY (Half Mermaid Productions) which received the Innovation Award, Pentiment (Obsidian Entertainment/Xbox Game Studios), winner for Best Narrative, and Citizen Sleeper (Jump Over The Age/Fellow Traveller), which won the Social Impact Award.

Monica Studio/Sony Interactive Entertainment) Best Narrative: Pentiment (Obsidian Entertainment/Xbox Game Studios) Social Impact Award: Citizen Sleeper (Jump Over The Age/Fellow Traveller) Innovation Award: Immortality (Half Mermaid Productions) Best Technology: God of War Ragnarok (Santa Monica Studio/Sony Interactive Entertainment) Best Design: Elden Ring (FromSoftware Inc./ Bandai Namco Entertainment) Audience Award: God of War Ragnarok (Santa Monica Studio/Sony Interactive Entertainment) Game of the Year: Elden Ring (FromSoftware Inc./Bandai Namco Entertainment) Pioneer Award: Mabel Addis

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SUMMARY A Plague Tale: Requiem is an action-adventure stealth game developed by Asobo Studio and published by Focus Entertainment. It is the sequel to A Plague Tale: Innocence and follows siblings Amicia and Hugo de Rune who must look for a cure to Hugo’s blood disease in Southern France while fleeing from soldiers of the French Inquisition and hordes of rats that are spreading the black plague.

GAMEPLAY

“A Plague Tale: Requiem” is a video game that features intense violence, blood, and gore content.

The game is designed to accommodate different approaches, allowing players to strike from the shadows or unleash hell with a variety of weapons, tools, and unearthly powers. The game follows Amicia and her brother Hugo on a perilous new quest, doing whatever it takes to survive a brutal, uncaring world. The game’s depictions of disease, from the ubiquity of sick, dying, and dead bodies to its story about characters struggling to find hope amid so much impersonal cruelty, feel queasily recognizable in today’s world.

The game’s story features soldiers from the Inquisition and hordes of rats that are spreading the disease. The game’s story is a perilous new quest where players must do whatever it takes to survive a brutal, uncaring world. The game’s story is an emotional and breathtaking journey that requires players to discover the cost of saving those they love in a desperate struggle for survival.

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“A Plague Tale: Requiem” is set in a blood-soaked 14th-century setting where the Black Death and Hundred Years’ War are metaphysical and universal symbols. The game’s depictions of disease, from the ubiquity of sick, dying, and dead bodies to its story about characters struggling to find hope amid so much impersonal cruelty, feel queasily recognizable in today’s world.

SETTING

The game’s setting is designed to accommodate different approaches, allowing players to strike from the shadows or unleash hell with a variety of weapons, tools, and unearthly powers.

The game’s setting is a brutal, breathtaking world where players discover the cost of saving those they love in a desperate struggle for survival. The game’s setting features soldiers from the Inquisition and hordes of rats that are spreading the disease. The game’s setting is a perilous new quest where players must do whatever it takes to survive a brutal, uncaring world.

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ABOUT STEAM DECK One of the notable aspects of the Steam Deck is its integration with the Steam platform. It runs on a customized version of SteamOS, Valve’s Linuxbased operating system, but users will have the freedom to install third-party software and other game stores. The Steam Deck aims to provide a seamless and portable gaming experience by allowing users to access their existing Steam libraries and play their favorite PC games on the device.

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The Steam Deck also offers additional features such as USB-C connectivity, Bluetooth support, a microSD card slot for expandable storage, and a 40 watt-hour battery that is expected to provide several hours of gameplay. The device includes a built-in gyro for motion controls and supports docking, allowing users to connect it to a monitor or TV for a larger display.

STEAM DECK

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