Free Digital Education for Bengal’s Students: The Scope Magazine Story

In an age where technology shapes careers and opportunities, digital education is crucial for students to make informed decisions about their future. Acknowledging this need, Scope Magazine has introduced a five-day crash course to provide students with a glimpse into the exciting world of digital skills. Designed to be accessible and impactful, this initiative is already making waves in schools and colleges across Bengal.

The Five-Day Crash Course: A Gateway to Digital Careers

This crash course introduces students to foundational concepts in digital designing, programming, and other in-demand skills. Unlike long-term programs, this concise training is tailored to provide maximum value in a short time. By the end of the course, students receive a certification, adding a significant credential to their profiles.

Scope Gaming Community is undertaking unprecedented initiatives to help students accommodate in the fast growing global digital landscape.

Also Read: Scope and Red Apple Learning to Launch Digital Literacy Initiative

What Does the Crash Course Cover?

Introduction to Digital Design:
Students learn the basics of graphic design and user interface creation, exploring tools like Canva.
Programming Basics:
The course offers an overview of programming concepts and languages such as C, C# or Unity3D, sparking interest in coding.
Digital Career Exploration:
Insights into career paths like game development, web design, and app development empower students to understand their options better.
Hands-On Mini Projects:
Each student gets the opportunity to work on a simple project, showcasing their newly learned skills.

Why This Course Matters

Informed Career Decisions:
For students in the early stages of career planning, this course acts as a career compass, offering clarity about the digital domain.
Accessible Learning:
By keeping the training free, Scope Magazine ensures that students from diverse backgrounds can participate, eliminating financial barriers.
Confidence Boost:
Completing the course and earning a certification instills a sense of achievement and motivates students to explore further learning opportunities.

Partnering with educational institutions

In last 2 years, Scope magazine has been successfully conducting such classes, seminars and webinars in association with Red Apple Learning in schools, colleges and universities. Thousands of students have already reaped the benefits of these events by now. Later on, many of these students have pursued specializations in these new age skills and now working successfully in leading corporate houses.

Also Read: Avoid 6 Common Mistakes before Selecting your Career Options

The Ripple Effect: Impact on Students

Students who have participated in the crash course have reported a newfound enthusiasm for exploring digital careers. Here’s what this initiative achieves:

Broadening Horizons: Students discover skills they were previously unaware of, opening doors to fields like graphic design, programming, and game development.
Practical Knowledge: Even in just five days, hands-on exposure to digital tools and techniques enhances their confidence.
Future Readiness: The certification, combined with a better understanding of digital career opportunities, positions students as forward-thinking individuals.

Scope magazine conducting seminars and webinars in schools, colleges and universities — Scope in association with Red Apple Learning Pvt. Ltd. is conducting free masterclasses for schools, colleges and university students.

The Future of Digital Education in Bengal

Scope Magazine’s mission doesn’t end here. Plans are underway to expand these crash courses to more institutions, creating an ecosystem where every student can explore the digital world, regardless of their background.

By introducing young minds to diverse skill sets, Scope Magazine is not just teaching—it’s inspiring a generation to dream big and make informed decisions about their futures.

For more details about Scope Magazine’s initiatives, visit www.scopemagazine.in.

Game Gaming News
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5 min read

Know more about Black Myth: Pricing & Specification

A decade ago, China lifted its 14-year ban on video game console sales, opening the floodgates for a gaming revolution in the world’s third-largest market. The move not only allowed global giants like Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft to officially enter the Chinese market but also inspired local studios to dream bigger. No longer confined to online and mobile gaming, many Chinese developers began exploring larger-scale console titles. Among them was Game Science, the studio behind the 2024 Golden Joystick Ultimate Game of the Year winner, Black Myth: Wukong.

A Stunning Achievement on a Modest Budget

It’s hard to overstate the leap Game Science made with Black Myth: Wukong. Having previously developed only a couple of relatively simple mobile strategy games, the studio managed to deliver a game of extraordinary polish and high production value on a budget of under $100 million. While that figure might seem impressive in China, it’s relatively modest compared to Western AAA standards. Yet, Wukong is a dazzling showcase of Unreal Engine 5, bringing cutting-edge graphics to life with remarkable finesse.

From its reimagined Journey to the West characters and cinematic cutscenes to its intricate combat systems and unforgettable boss fights, Wukong shattered expectations. The skepticism that greeted its reveal trailer four years ago—where many doubted the final product could match its stunning visuals—was thoroughly put to rest. While the game isn’t perfect, its achievement is undeniable.

Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Backing and the Launch of UFL: The New Challenger in Football Gaming

Highlights and Criticisms

Despite its success, Black Myth: Wukong isn’t without flaws. Its linear progression, initial technical hiccups, and occasionally underwhelming combat feedback have drawn criticism. However, these issues didn’t prevent the game from becoming a global hit, earning nominations for prestigious awards and cementing its place as a milestone in gaming history.

Black Myth: Wukong System Requirements

If you’re planning to embark on this mythological journey, make sure your gaming rig is up to the task. Here are the system requirements for Black Myth: Wukong:

Minimum Requirements

Processor: Core i5-8400 / Ryzen 5 1600
GPU: GeForce GTX 1060 / RX 580
VRAM: 6GB
RAM: 16GB
Storage: 130GB (HDD supported)

Recommended Requirements

Processor: Core i7-9700 / Ryzen 5 5500
GPU: GeForce RTX 2060 / Radeon RX 6700XT / Arc A750
VRAM: 6GB
RAM: 16GB
Storage: 130GB (SSD recommended)

For Full Ray Tracing on Ultra Settings

Processor: Core i7-9700 / Ryzen 5 5500
GPU: GeForce RTX 4080 Super
VRAM: 16GB
RAM: 32GB
Storage: 130GB (SSD required)

Opening the Floodgates for Chinese AAA Games

The success of Wukong has not only propelled Game Science into the spotlight but has also piqued global interest in other Chinese developers. In 2025, several high-profile releases are planned, each aiming to rival the scale and ambition of Black Myth. Notable examples include:

Phantom Blade Zero
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers
Code: To Jin Yong

These games, while developed by studios of varying sizes (e.g., Lightspeed Games, a Tencent division, is behind Code: To Jin Yong), share a common thread: jaw-dropping visuals, dynamic combat, and deep roots in Chinese cultural traditions like Wuxia. This infusion of cultural inspiration into gameplay and aesthetics has added a refreshing vibrancy to their offerings.

A New Trend or a Short-Lived Fad?

Interestingly, many of these upcoming titles seem to follow a similar formula: fast-paced, third-person character action games with Souls-like combat elements. While this trend is exciting now, it remains to be seen if repeated iterations will lead to fatigue. For the moment, however, the buzz surrounding these games suggests a bright future for the genre.

Looking Ahead

Black Myth: Wukong is more than just a game—it’s a declaration of intent. Game Science has proven that Chinese developers can compete with the best, and the ripple effect is already visible. If the upcoming titles live up to their trailers, this could mark the dawn of a new era for Chinese AAA games.

For now, gamers have plenty to look forward to, and if these developers continue to innovate and refine their craft, the global gaming industry will have an exciting new force to reckon with.

Business
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8 min read

5 Ways to Promote Your Games Using Scope Magazine

Get noticed in a crowded market! Check out these 5 innovative promotional ideas for game publishers to shine through Scope Magazine.

If you’re a game publisher seeking to promote a game to student audiences without spending heavily on ads, Scope Magazine is the perfect platform to get started. With a reputation for reaching youth audiences interested in gaming and tech, Scope offers an affordable way for you to share your latest games. Here are five creative, low-cost ways that game publishers can leverage Scope Magazine to reach an engaged audience of students and young gamers. Here are five game promotion strategies for publishers and indie developers.

1. Host Developer Q&A Sessions

Live Q&A sessions allow you to create a direct connection between your game’s developers and their audience. By setting up a Q&A through Scope Magazine, students get the opportunity to meet the creators, understand the vision behind the game, and ask questions about the development process, challenges, and future updates. This personal interaction brings the game to life for potential players and gives them a sense of insider access.

Students are often curious about the behind-the-scenes of game development and enjoy learning from experienced developers. Even if they don’t ask questions, seeing others engage creates an atmosphere of community around your game. This engagement has the added bonus of helping you understand what your audience is interested in, whether it’s character development, gameplay mechanics, or even the tech stack used. For publishers, it’s a highly affordable option that relies more on time and creativity than on large budgets.

Also Read: The Best Game Development Frameworks in 2024: A Guide for Students

2. Offer Beta Testing Access

Giving students early access to your game can be a game-changer, as beta testing is a fantastic way to generate excitement. Through Scope, publishers can announce beta-testing opportunities to an audience that is young, passionate, and curious about upcoming games. Students love getting an early glimpse at a game they’re excited about and being among the first to experience the gameplay, art, and narrative.

Scope Community Members testing games for indie developers — Game Tesing with Scope Community

By offering access through Scope Magazine, you’re reaching a specific group of students interested in tech and gaming. This audience is also likely to provide feedback that could help developers refine the gameplay experience before the official launch. Plus, allowing students to be part of the beta testing team makes them feel connected to the development process, building brand loyalty that could last beyond a single game release.

3. Conduct Interactive Polls

Polls might seem simple, but they’re a highly effective, budget-friendly way to engage students and learn about your audience’s preferences. Through Scope, publishers can run polls that cover a variety of topics, from gameplay preferences to desired features or genres. For instance, you might ask, “What’s your favorite type of game environment?” or “Which aspect of the game are you most excited about—story, visuals, or gameplay?”

These types of interactive polls provide valuable insights, helping you shape your marketing or even influence game development to align with what students are looking for. Plus, polls are inherently shareable, so readers are likely to share them with friends, increasing reach at no extra cost. This allows publishers to learn more about their audience, create tailored content, and build anticipation around the game’s release.

4. Be Featured as Scope’s Game of the Month

Scope Magazine can help you gain dedicated attention by featuring your game as the “Game of the Month.” This program could highlight your game through a spotlight article, social media posts, and even email newsletters sent directly to a student-focused audience. Being the featured game offers significant visibility, helping your game stand out without competing with others for attention.

To maximize this feature, consider offering a small discount or special in-game bonus exclusively for Scope readers. This limited-time offer appeals to students and young gamers who are often on a budget. Not only does this boost game engagement, but it also encourages readers to download and play right away, while the attention is still fresh. Since this option involves minimal costs, it’s ideal for publishers looking to increase their game’s reach within a targeted, student-heavy demographic.

India Game Developer Conference (IGDC), 2024

5. Host Student-Centric Competitions

Friendly competitions are a great way to generate excitement and engagement around your game. One of the most significant game promotion strategies for publishers is certainly competitions. Through Scope, you could host contests related to gameplay achievements, fan art, or creative storytelling. These competitions could involve small rewards, like in-game currency or merchandise, or even simply the chance to be featured on Scope’s social channels or in an article.

Competitions encourage students to interact with the game, creating a sense of community around it. They also tap into the social aspect of gaming—players share achievements and compete with peers, increasing awareness of your game through organic word-of-mouth. Not only do competitions offer promotional value at a low cost, but they also enhance user loyalty by creating an interactive experience that makes players feel part of something bigger.

Wrapping Up

In a world where gaming promotions can be expensive, Scope Magazine offers an affordable alternative for publishers wanting to connect with students and young players. With these strategies—Q&A sessions, beta testing, polls, monthly features, and competitions—you can promote your game effectively while staying within budget. By leveraging Scope’s student-focused platform, you can generate buzz, build a dedicated fan base, and gather valuable feedback from the next generation of gamers. These low-cost tactics help make your game visible to an enthusiastic audience, creating a win-win situation for both publishers and students interested in gaming. With the above mentioned game promotion strategies for publishers Scope Gaming Community is building the bridge between creators, affiliate marketers and consumers. We hope to build a robust gaming community to connect the entire nation with the world.

Technology
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0
6 min read

The Best Game Development Frameworks in 2024: Students’ Guide

Game development is a growing field, with more opportunities than ever for students to dive into the world of creating engaging, immersive experiences. Whether you’re looking to create mobile games, console games, or indie projects, having the right game development framework is crucial. In 2024, developers have a wealth of options at their fingertips, each suited to different types of projects and skill levels. This guide will introduce you to the best frameworks available, helping you make informed decisions as you start your journey in game development.

1. Unity: The All-Rounder

For students who are serious about game development, Unity remains a top choice in 2024. This widely-used engine is known for its versatility, allowing developers to create 2D, 3D, and VR/AR games. Whether you’re making a simple mobile game or a AAA-level project, Unity has the tools you need. Unity supports cross-platform development, meaning your game can run on almost any platform, including iOS, Android, PC, and even consoles.

Why Unity is great for students:

Extensive online tutorials and documentation.
Strong community support.
A wide range of asset libraries.
Visual scripting tools (like Bolt) for those without coding experience.

Unity also offers a free tier for beginners, making it a great entry point for students working on their first projects.

2. Unreal Engine: For High-Quality 3D Games

Unreal Engine, developed by Epic Games, is another powerhouse in the game development world. Known for its stunning graphics and high-level performance, Unreal is the go-to choice for developers looking to create highly realistic 3D games. It features a robust visual scripting system called Blueprints, which allows beginners to create complex game mechanics without deep programming knowledge.

Why Unreal Engine is great for students:

Industry-standard for high-fidelity 3D games.
Large collection of assets in the Unreal Marketplace.
Access to cutting-edge technology like ray tracing and Lumen (for realistic lighting and environments).
Free to use unless your game generates over $1 million in revenue.

Unreal Engine is perfect for students who want to work on visually impressive projects or aim for a career in large game studios.

Also Read: Indian Gaming Industry to Boost Employment Growth

3. Godot: The Open-Source Rising Star

Godot is an open-source game development framework that has been gaining significant traction in recent years. It’s lightweight, highly flexible, and best of all, completely free. In 2024, Godot stands out for its simplicity and effectiveness, especially for indie developers and students. It supports both 2D and 3D game development, with a dedicated 2D engine that’s ideal for pixel-perfect projects.

Why Godot is great for students:

Open-source and free to use.
Lightweight and easy to learn.
Great for both 2D and 3D games.
A supportive and growing community of indie developers.

Godot’s focus on simplicity, combined with its powerful features, makes it an excellent choice for students looking to create unique, creative games without steep learning curves.

4. Cocos2d-x: For Mobile and Lightweight Games

Cocos2d-x is a popular framework for mobile game development, especially 2D games. This open-source framework is known for its efficiency and lightweight nature, making it perfect for students focused on creating mobile-friendly games. Although Cocos2d-x is written in C++, it also supports Lua and JavaScript, providing flexibility in terms of programming languages.

Why Cocos2d-x is great for students:

Optimized for mobile platforms.
Low memory usage and high performance.
Cross-platform support for Android, iOS, and web games.
Open-source and free to use.

Cocos2d-x is ideal for students looking to break into mobile game development and wanting a framework that’s efficient and easy to manage.

5. Phaser: For 2D Browser-Based Games

Phaser is a 2D game framework that is perfect for developing browser-based games. It uses JavaScript, making it accessible for students with basic web development skills. Phaser is highly efficient for simple games, especially when targeting HTML5 platforms.

Why Phaser is great for students:

Easy integration with web technologies.
Fast development cycle for 2D games.
Great for creating browser-based games without needing to install apps.

For students interested in making quick prototypes or interactive web-based games, Phaser offers an easy-to-learn solution.

Conclusion

Choosing the right game development framework depends on the type of game you want to create and your skill level. For students, Unity and Unreal Engine provide powerful all-in-one solutions, while Godot and Cocos2d-x offer free, lightweight alternatives. Phaser is perfect for web-based projects. Explore these frameworks to find which one suits your needs and start building your next great game today!

Gaming News
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0
6 min read

The Biggest Game Releases of October 2024

October is shaping up to be a thrilling month for gamers, packed with major AAA releases and some spine-chilling surprises. Leading the lineup is Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, followed closely by remastered horror classics like Silent Hill 2 and Until Dawn. These fan favorites are making a comeback with revamped visuals and gameplay, appealing to both newcomers and long-time fans.

Beyond the headline titles, there are several other exciting releases. Atlus is launching the much-anticipated Metaphor: ReFantazio, and Batman fans can immerse themselves in the Arkham universe with Batman Arkham Shadow in VR. Additionally, BioWare’s latest release, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, is generating a lot of buzz, along with a mysterious new game set in The Callisto Protocol universe called Redacted.

Alongside these high-profile titles, a variety of indie games are debuting this month, ensuring there’s something for every type of gamer. Here’s a breakdown of October’s biggest releases:

Super Mario Party Jamboree

Release Date: October 17
Platforms: Switch

Packed with over 110 mini-games and seven colorful boards, Super Mario Party Jamboree offers endless fun. Whether playing locally or online, it’s a party for all ages, with new characters like Pauline and Ninji joining the action.

Also Read: The Biggest Game Releases of August 2024

Kill Knight

Release Date: October 3
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch

An intense action-packed adventure awaits as players take control of a knight on a holy quest. The game’s challenging combat and endless enemies make Kill Knight a white-knuckle ride from start to finish.

Until Dawn

Release Date: October 4
Platforms: PC, PS5

The horror favorite Until Dawn returns with a remake that enhances its visuals and adds new design elements. Players can still expect the same nail-biting, choice-driven gameplay that made the original such a hit.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

Release Date: October 25
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One

Black Ops 6 takes players back to 1991 in an intense, conspiracy-filled campaign. Multiplayer and Zombie modes return with enhanced features, promising fast-paced action for all players.

Silent Hill 2 Remake

Release Date: October 8
Platforms: PC, PS5

The Silent Hill 2 remake breathes new life into the psychological horror classic. With updated combat mechanics and immersive visuals, it retains the essence of the original while adding modern touches to enhance the experience.

Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred

Release Date: October 8
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One

Diablo’s first expansion introduces an updated difficulty system, Runewords, and a unique dungeon to explore. Fans of the series can also look forward to the return of the secret cow level—an iconic feature rumored to be making a comeback.

Metaphor: ReFantazio

Release Date: October 11
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S

From the creators of Persona comes Metaphor: ReFantazio, a JRPG that combines dungeon-crawling and character-building in a brand-new fantasy world. A demo is available for those eager to dive into its exciting world.

Batman Arkham Shadow

Release Date: October 22
Platforms: Meta Quest 3

Batman Arkham Shadow immerses players in Gotham like never before, offering thrilling VR gameplay. Step into the boots of a young Batman as he faces off against the sinister Rat King in this action-packed adventure.

Sonic x Shadow Generations

Release Date: October 22
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch

This 2-in-1 game includes a new title starring Shadow the Hedgehog and a remastered version of Sonic Generations, delivering fast-paced, nostalgic gameplay.

Life is Strange: Double Exposure

Release Date: October 29
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Max Caulfield returns in this exciting sequel, where players explore parallel timelines and make tough choices that shape the story. With a gripping narrative and emotional depth, Life is Strange: Double Exposure promises a memorable experience.

Dragon Age: The Veilguard

Release Date: October 31
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Set a decade after Inquisition, Dragon Age: The Veilguard invites players to explore Thedas once more. The game introduces new customization options, companions, and an action-packed combat system that stays true to the series’ roots.

Redacted

Release Date: October 31
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Redacted revives the Callisto Protocol universe with a roguelike dungeon-crawler. Play as a security guard racing for the last escape pod in Black Iron Prison, battling escaped prisoners and nightmarish creatures. Your reanimated corpse returns to challenge you after each death, raising the stakes in each rematch.

Gaming News
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1
6 min read

The Biggest Game Releases of August 2024

As the year approaches its end, the gaming world is seeing a surge in major releases. The most anticipated title this month is undoubtedly Star Wars Outlaws, Ubisoft’s take on the iconic franchise. After years of EA’s dominance, Ubisoft brings its well-known open-world formula to the Star Wars universe, adding remarkable details and an engaging storyline that diverges from the usual Jedi themes.

For fans of Souls-like games, Black Myth: Wukong is another highlight this month. Based on the ancient Chinese tale, Journey to the West, this game offers thrilling combat as players control Sun Wukong and face terrifying creatures from folklore.

Other notable titles this August include the quirky British-themed Thank Goodness You’re Here, the magical strategy game Tactical Breach Wizards, and even the meme-worthy Squirrel with a Gun. Below are more details on these exciting releases.

Thank Goodness You’re Here!

Release Date: August 1
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Switch

This game takes you to a charming British village filled with quirky characters. You’ll explore the town of Barnsworth and assist the locals in this humorous slapformer with a whimsical art style.

Also Read: Unity 6 Set for Global Release on October 17, 2024, Unity Announces at Annual “Unite” Developer Conference

Volgarr the Viking 2

Release Date: August 6
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S

A sequel to the 2013 classic, this challenging action-adventure pits you against hordes of enemies with intricate combat mechanics. While it’s tough, checkpoints and unlimited continues ensure an enjoyable experience for all players.

SteamWorld Heist II

Release Date: August 8
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch

This tactical combat game features a ragtag team of seafaring robots battling through turn-based strategy encounters. The job system and ricochet mechanics add depth to the gameplay as you navigate a water crisis in Steamworld.

Kena: Bridge of Spirits

Release Date: August 15
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One

Bridge of Spirits offers a heartfelt story combined with stunning visuals. Players will engage in combat with adorable companions while exploring the world, now available on Xbox platforms.

Madden NFL 25

Release Date: August 16
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Football fans can look forward to this year’s Madden, featuring a new physics-based tackling system called Boom Tech. This mechanic brings a fresh layer of strategy, adding complexity to each play.

Black Myth: Wukong

Release Date: August 20
Platforms: PC, PS5

Based on the classic Journey to the West, Black Myth: Wukong brings mythological Chinese elements into the Souls-like genre. The game’s action-packed combat, coupled with its intricate narrative, promises an immersive experience.

Tactical Breach Wizards

Release Date: August 22
Platforms: PC

For fans of tactical combat games, Tactical Breach Wizards blends strategy with spellcasting. Assemble your team of magical operatives, and navigate black-ops missions using powerful abilities to manipulate time and space.

Concord

Release Date: August 23
Platforms: PS5, PC

Concord is stepping into the competitive shooter market alongside heavyweights like Overwatch and Valorant. With its dynamic character roster and post-launch updates, it aims to stand out in an already crowded genre.

World of Warcraft: The War Within

Release Date: August 26
Platforms: PC

The first chapter in the Worldsoul Saga, The War Within introduces new dungeons, raids, and a “Delve” mode for smaller parties. It’s a big release for World of Warcraft as it marks the game’s 20th anniversary.

Gundam Breaker 4

Release Date: August 29
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Switch

Gunpla enthusiasts can build and customize their own Gundams in this action-packed game. With dozens of models to unlock and combine, players can bring their dream creations to life on the battlefield.

Also Read: 5 Best Institutes for Graphic Designing in Kolkata

Squirrel With A Gun

Release Date: August 29
Platforms: PC

In this unique and meme-worthy title, you play as a gun-wielding squirrel causing chaos. It’s an open-world game full of crime and hilarity, offering a fun and unpredictable experience.

Visions of Mana

Release Date: August 29
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, PC

The beloved Mana series returns after 15 years with a brand-new entry. Visions of Mana blends vibrant JRPG mechanics with a semi-open world as you journey to the Tree of Mana.

Star Wars Outlaws

Release Date: August 30
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Ubisoft’s take on Star Wars lets players control Kay Vess, a scoundrel trying to pull off the ultimate heist in the Star Wars galaxy. With a focus on open-world exploration and a fresh narrative, Star Wars Outlaws aims to deliver a thrilling adventure.

AVGCXR Gaming News
0
0
5 min read

NCoE for AVGC-XR Promises to Reshape India’s Gaming Sector

The National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) for Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) is poised to transform India’s gaming industry, much like how the IITs and IIMs revolutionized engineering and management. Approved by the Union Cabinet under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the NCoE will be established in Mumbai, Maharashtra, as part of the AVGC Task Force initiative from the 2022-23 budget.

Since esports was officially recognized as a ‘multi-sport event’ by the Indian government, the gaming industry has witnessed rapid growth. States are increasingly engaging with the sector, and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has announced the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), set to take place in New Delhi in February 2025. This summit will include esports tournaments for games like Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), World Cricket Championship (WCC), and eFootball, further demonstrating India’s commitment to fostering a thriving gaming ecosystem.

Empowering Indian Game Developers and Talent

In his Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Modi encouraged Indian game developers to make a global impact. The NCoE will play a pivotal role in this effort by focusing on the creation of intellectual property (IP) rooted in India’s cultural heritage. Pune-based SuperGaming’s Indus Battle Royale, which recently entered open beta, is a shining example of this, highlighting India’s growing influence in the global gaming scene.

Roby John, CEO and Co-founder of SuperGaming, emphasized, “The NCoE’s role as an incubation hub will be a game-changer for startups, much like how the IITs advanced engineering and the IIMs revolutionized management. We believe this center will reshape India’s gaming industry.”

John also stressed the importance of creating IP based on India’s rich culture, a mission aligned with SuperGaming’s Indus, set in an Indo-futuristic universe. “As gaming blurs the lines between entertainment and technology, we expect significant investments from both domestic and international sources, positioning India as a key content hub.”

Also Read: How is the Gaming Industry Transforming Using Blockchain Technology?

Nurturing Future Talent

Prime Minister Modi has actively supported the gaming industry, even engaging with renowned Indian gamers like Animesh Agarwal (8Bit Thug), Naman Mathur (Mortal), and Payal Dhare (PayalGaming) from 8Bit Creatives, a leading esports talent agency.

Animesh Agarwal, CEO and Co-founder of 8Bit Creatives, said, “The NCoE will provide young enthusiasts with access to the latest technology, mentorship, and guidance. This will drive the creation of Made-in-India games that will leave a lasting mark on the global gaming industry.”

Specialized Learning Programs for AVGC-XR

The NCoE will offer training programs for both beginners and professionals, equipping them with advanced AVGC-XR skills. With the rising demand for high-performance PCs, CyberPowerPC’s recent entry into India is perfectly timed to support the growing needs of the gaming industry.

Vishal Parekh, COO of CyberPowerPC India, stated, “The NCoE is a fantastic initiative that will propel India’s animation, VFX, gaming, and comics sectors forward. As technology advances, the youth will have an incredible opportunity to upskill, further boosting India’s position on the global AVGC-XR map.”

Expanding Career Opportunities for Gen-Z

The NCoE aligns with Gen-Z’s interests, expanding career opportunities in AVGC-XR. NODWIN Gaming, a leader in youth entertainment, gaming, and esports, has been catering to this demographic through IPs like Comic Con, DreamHack India, and BGMS.

Akshat Rathee, Co-founder and Managing Director of NODWIN Gaming, remarked, “The NCoE will serve as a beacon for both amateurs and professionals, offering opportunities to hone their skills in animation, VFX, gaming, and comics. This synergy of sectors will lead to incredible experiences and solidify India as a powerhouse in the global AVGC-XR industry.”

Also Read: Master Graphic Designing with the eBook by Red Apple Learning.

Conclusion

The establishment of the NCoE for AVGC-XR marks a transformative leap for India’s gaming and esports industries, fostering innovation, supporting startups, and nurturing young talent, while positioning India as a global hub for AVGC-XR content.

News Technology
0
0
3 min read

Unity 6 Set for Global Release on October 17, 2024, Unity Announces at Annual “Unite” Developer Conference

Unity Technologies has announced that Unity 6 will officially launch worldwide on October 17, 2024. This exciting news was revealed during the company’s Unite developer conference, where a preview of upcoming features and advancements in game development was also shared.

Unity 6 promises a host of new features, including customizable graphics rendering, enhanced tools for multiplayer game development, and optimized support for web-based games through a new WebGPU backend. A significant highlight is the integration of advanced AI tools such as Sentis, which will allow developers to incorporate AI models across various devices. The engine will also expand the Muse suite of AI-driven tools and services, making AI a key component of game development workflows.

The first major update, Unity 6.1, is slated for April 2025. This version will build upon Unity 6’s core capabilities, introducing support for foldable and larger screens, deferred rendering with GPU Resident Drawer, and new build targets and profiles to enhance the development experience.

Also Read: Zynga Ventures into Web3 Gaming with ‘Sugartown’

While Unity 6 marks a significant leap forward, Unity has confirmed that work has already begun on the next generation of the engine. Although still in the early stages of development, this future iteration aims to deliver a “fundamental shift in design,” incorporating features like the Entity Component System (ECS) at its core, a new content pipeline, a world-building system based on DOTS, and an upgraded animation system.

Unity CEO Matt Bromberg emphasized the company’s focus on meeting developer needs, particularly regarding stability and performance. “Unity 6 is the best version of Unity yet, with long-term support and regular updates, all while minimizing disruption to developers’ current projects,” Bromberg stated.

Unity 5, which launched in March 2015, marked the beginning of a yearly update cycle. However, the company has since reverted to its major update model to deliver more substantial, feature-packed releases.

Also Read: Become a game developer in 12 months and get assured placement

Recently, Unity also reversed its controversial runtime fee policy after engaging in “deep consultation” with the community, customers, and partners. The fee, initially announced last September, faced significant backlash, leading to its removal for games using Unity Personal licenses.

Gaming
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0
9 min read

How Many Players Does a Live Service Game Like Concord Need to Survive?

When determining how many players a game like Concord needs to survive, it’s important to consider the many factors that influence the sustainability of live service games. Recently, Sony announced that it would be pausing the live service of Concord, its new hero shooter, which surprised few in the gaming community. Within just days of the game’s launch, reports indicated poor sales figures: an estimated 25,000 copies sold, with 10,000 on Steam and 15,000 on PlayStation. The player count was even more concerning. On August 24, the day after launch, Concord peaked at just 697 concurrent players, according to SteamDB. This number plummeted quickly, with only 39 players recorded just days later.

The decision to shut down a live service game is never made lightly. Multiplayer games, especially ones in the live service model, are incredibly expensive to maintain. The costs of running servers, providing ongoing updates, and maintaining the staff needed to manage live operations can quickly outstrip the revenue that comes in from a small player base. As a result, active player count becomes one of the most critical factors in determining whether a live service game is viable.

What Defines Survival for a Live Service Game?

The number of active players a game like Concord needs to stay operational varies widely depending on the game’s structure, financial backing, and business model. According to Piers Harding-Rolls, head of games research at Ampere Analysis, this number can fluctuate drastically. “For one game, it might be 200,000 monthly active users, for another two million,” Harding-Rolls explained.

Several elements influence whether a game can survive. These include the research and development (R&D) investment made before and after launch, the salaries and staffing costs, marketing expenses, infrastructure and server delivery costs, and even the licensing and publishing costs. Each game is different, and as a result, each one has a unique “break-even” point.

Beyond monetary factors, multiplayer games face the challenge of maintaining enough players to make the experience enjoyable for everyone. If there aren’t enough players to matchmake quickly, those who are still engaged may leave due to long wait times, creating a snowball effect that further shrinks the player base. This issue compounds in regions with smaller populations, like Australia, where players are often spread too thin to provide smooth matchmaking.

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The Increasingly Short Lifespan of Live Service Games

Concord is not an outlier when it comes to live service games struggling to maintain a sustainable player base. In the past two years alone, dozens of multiplayer games have been shut down, often within a short time after launch. For example, Tencent’s free-to-play shooter Synched was shut down just one year after its release, with only 10,000 daily active users and concurrent players ranging between 500 and 1,000 at the end.

Other titles have faced similar fates. In February 2023 alone, eight different games, including Apex Legends Mobile, Rumbleverse, Knockout City, and CrossfireX, announced their closures within the span of one week. Each of these games struggled to maintain a large enough player base to justify their continued development and server maintenance.

One of the most common strategies for saving struggling live service games is switching to a free-to-play model, which many developers hope will increase player count. For instance, Knockout City, developed by Velan Studios, transitioned to free-to-play after parting ways with publisher Electronic Arts. Despite this, the game still ranged between 1,500 and 5,000 peak concurrent users (CCUs) and ultimately shut down after just two years.

How Many Players Are Needed?

The number of players needed for a game to survive depends heavily on the type of game being operated. Guha Bala, co-founder of Velan Studios, explains that for a PvP (player-versus-player) multiplayer game based on skill, a minimum of 10,000 CCUs per region is needed to ensure smooth matchmaking and reduce latency issues. This number can drop to 2,000 CCUs if certain rollback strategies are employed, like those used in Knockout City, to maintain a good experience in regions like North America and Western Europe.

For games not reliant on matchmaking, like PvE (player-versus-environment) games, a smaller player base can still sustain the game. Bala estimates that PvE games can function with 1,000 to 3,000 CCUs per region, as these games can rely on bots to fill in for absent human players.

The Business Model Factor

The game’s business model is often an even bigger factor in whether a live service game can survive. Free-to-play games, for example, rely on a steady stream of revenue from in-game purchases. Bala suggests that at least 5% of a free-to-play game’s total user base must spend money in the game to cover the costs of keeping it online. For some titles, this could mean requiring a player base of 50,000 or more active users, which poses a significant challenge for many new games entering the market.

In contrast, Concord was a premium game with a $40 price point, much like Helldivers 2. The game also didn’t feature microtransactions or a battle pass, meaning all its revenue had to come from upfront sales. Given that the game’s development team, Firewalk Studios, had at least 150 staff members, the costs of maintaining Concord would have been substantial. Bala estimates that a 50-person team alone would cost around $500,000 a month in labor expenses, meaning a $20 game would need to sell 25,000 copies per month just to break even. With Concord priced at $40 and a much larger team, its sales numbers were likely far short of what Sony required.

Also Read: Become a game developer in 12 months and get assured placement

The Future of Live Service Games

Despite the financial difficulties, some developers believe that the future of live service games may lie in the premium model. Bala suggests that live service games built around a traditional sales model may offer more room for innovation than free-to-play titles, where monetization and paywalls often take precedence over creating emotionally engaging experiences.

Whether Concord will be able to bounce back from its initial struggles remains to be seen. Sony and Firewalk Studios have expressed interest in exploring other ways to take the title forward, but the future is uncertain. One thing is clear: launching and sustaining a live service game in today’s market is more challenging than ever. With industry giants like Fortnite, GTA Online, and Roblox dominating the space, new entrants face an uphill battle in attracting and retaining players.

In the years to come, it’s likely we’ll see more live service games struggle to survive as developers experiment with new business models, gameplay mechanics, and strategies for player retention. For games like Concord, the path forward may involve significant changes, or it may end up being one of many short-lived titles in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Technology
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0
5 min read

How is the Gaming Industry Transforming Using Blockchain Technology?

The gaming industry is undergoing a groundbreaking transformation with the integration of blockchain technology. What was once solely an entertainment-focused sector has now evolved into one that combines finance, ownership, and real-time value. Blockchain is reshaping gaming in previously unimaginable ways, bringing significant benefits to both developers and gamers.

Ownership of In-Game Assets
One of the most revolutionary impacts of blockchain on gaming is the concept of true ownership of in-game assets. Traditionally, in-game items such as skins, weapons, or characters were controlled by game developers. Players could invest time and money to acquire these items, but they never truly “owned” them. With blockchain, through Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), gamers can now have real ownership of their digital assets.

These blockchain-based assets can be bought, sold, or traded across different games and platforms, creating a player-driven economy. This shift has opened up new possibilities in gaming, where digital collectibles hold real-world value. Gamers can now earn through playing, turning gaming into not just a hobby but a potential career path.

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Play-to-Earn (P2E) Games
Blockchain is also fueling the rise of Play-to-Earn (P2E) games. These games reward players with cryptocurrencies or NFTs for in-game achievements. Games like Axie Infinity and The Sandbox have popularized this model, transforming gamers into entrepreneurs. With P2E, players have a financial incentive to engage more deeply with the game, fostering a new type of relationship between the game and its users.

This model creates a more democratic gaming environment, where players can earn based on their skills and time investment, without the need for upfront costs or pay-to-win mechanics. It’s a win-win situation—gamers earn, and developers enjoy a more active, engaged user base.

Decentralized Gaming Ecosystems
Blockchain has also introduced decentralized gaming ecosystems. Unlike traditional games, where developers retain full control over the game world, blockchain-based games are governed by the community. These decentralized ecosystems allow players to participate in decision-making processes, such as voting on game updates or sharing in profits.

This player-centered governance ensures transparency and fairness, making the gaming experience more rewarding and inclusive. It also shifts power away from large corporations, giving more control to the gaming community, which fosters innovation and creativity.

Enhanced Security and Transparency
Blockchain’s transparency and security features are greatly benefiting the gaming industry. Gamers no longer have to worry about fraudulent transactions or unauthorized access to their accounts. With blockchain, every transaction is recorded on a distributed ledger, making them immutable and traceable.

This technology eliminates the risk of in-game asset fraud, protecting gamers from hacks and malicious activities. Blockchain creates a trustless environment where transactions happen automatically and securely, without the need for intermediaries.

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Cross-Game Compatibility
Blockchain also offers the possibility of cross-game compatibility, allowing players to use their in-game assets across multiple games. This could lead to a more interconnected gaming ecosystem, where progress in one game can benefit or influence another. For instance, an item earned in a blockchain-based game could be traded or used in a completely different game, enhancing the player’s overall experience.

Conclusion
Blockchain technology is transforming the gaming industry in profound ways, from enabling true ownership of in-game assets to creating decentralized ecosystems. As blockchain games continue to gain popularity, they are unlocking a world of opportunities for both players and developers. The rise of P2E models, enhanced security, and transparency are only the beginning of blockchain’s impact on gaming.

The future of gaming looks bright, with blockchain positioned at the forefront of this revolution.

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