Case Study #2 - Let's Normalize Easy Mode

Open world games have rules the modern gaming era with titles like The Elder Scrolls, The Witcher, The Legend of Zelda, Assassin's Creed, and the ever popular Grand Theft Auto. We'll be discussing the abundance of these games in the market, but more importantly, its saturation in the mainstream. Are they too tiring to play? Or is it just us complaining?

As avid fans of the "Souls" series by FromSoftware, our mental health has always been on the edge. But that was our choice, to "git gud". For others though, they just want to play and immerse themselves in the game without the challenge. But, are they as  devoted to the game as we are?

Since 2019, Sony has been elusive in going to historic gaming events like E3, Gamescom, and Tokyo Game Show.  Our discussions led us into why Sony is doing this, what is the meaning of this for gaming events, and is it the right thing to do? 

It's safe to say that we're beginning to feel the price increase in today's video games. But is it validated? $60 has been the reigning standard for video game price since the 7th generation. And entering the 9th, we felt the sudden increase to $70. So we ask, are we still gonna be willing to pay that much? Well we did a bit of research, and it appears that we always have.

Harassment, in any shape or form, should never be condoned by anyone. Along with the announcement of the release date for God of War Rangnarok, also came online attacks directed towards the developers involved in the game simply for demanding the release of the game. More information about Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has arrived from their interview with Gematsu. And Monster Hunter Rise Sun Break is already posting impressive sale in just over a week of release.

Showcases here, there, and everywhere. But are they any worth showing? Final Fantasy VII turns 25 this year, and perfect timing to announce the much awaited FFVII Rebirth. Crisis Core gets an unexpected remaster which will be suitable for those yet to experience Zach's heroic story. Starfield is very ambitious, almost to a dangerous amount. With thousands of plant-sized maps for you to explore, this will surely be a game changer to gaming. But, knowing Bethesda, having only a few and minor bugs would be a miracle. And Capcom releases more details about their upcoming line-up of games such as Resident Evil 4, Street FIghter 6, and Dragon's Dogma 2.

Endure and Survive. Experience one of the greatest games of all time rebuilt for the PS5. Changes in face animation, gameplay, and accessibility will surely  be enough hype for us to play thru Joel and Ellie's adventure to Utah once more. Xbox is ready to unload on the competition with their upcoming game showcase. With the newly acquired studios now in the bag, this showcase will surely be a sight to behold (we saw it already). Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 is also getting a remake. It surely is the perfect time for those who haven't played the original to play this acclaimed series.

"What are ya buyin'?" Capcom should've ended its reveal trailer for Resident Evil 4 with that line to blow gamer's minds all over the world. Wasted opportunity, but still, the hype is here, and we are all ready for it. No more Nintendo-owned music on Youtube anymore. Nintendo has put out a series of strikes for any Youtube content that has any kind of Nintendo music on them, why? We don't know. And what will we see in Xbox's Showcase later this month? Only time will tell.

More Final Fantasy XVI updates have arrived, but is there still hype? Naoki Yoshia, FFXVI Director has psoted udpates regarding the status of the game, saying that it's in its final stages of development, and that he aims to bring back the enthusiasm that people have on the franchise. Xbox services were down for 12 hours as their Digital Right Management department experienced issues, giving way to the community asking Xbox to tighten up their security to prevent further disruptions on their online services. Square Enix has surrendered it's western studios, namely, Crystal Dynamics, Edios, and SE Montreal to Embracer group at a value of $300 million. With rumors that Sony might be acquiring Square Enix, was this a part of the deal?

Did Microsoft do a big power play? With the struggles in console production during the pandemic, rumors say that Microsoft paid its way to gain the advantage in obtaining chips for the console. And if proven true, is it ethical?