Gaming

‘Off The Grid’ Brings Blockchain Gaming to Reality

Off The Grid, a revolutionary blockchain-powered battle royale game, is set to redefine the genre through its unique combination of PvP skirmishes, PvE missions, and a dystopian storyline. Developed by Gunzilla Games in collaboration with Neill Blomkamp (director of “District 9” and “Chappie”), this free-to-play shooter has already garnered significant attention since its early access release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC via the Epic Games Store.

The game quickly topped the Epic Games Store’s free-to-play charts and amassed a strong following on Twitch, with fans captivated by its immersive world. What sets Off The Grid apart isn’t just its fast-paced, dystopian action, but also its blockchain backbone, offering players the potential to earn, mint, and trade NFTs and use an upcoming crypto token called GUN.

A New Kind of Battle Royale

At its core, Off The Grid follows a traditional battle royale setup where players, in teams of three, drop onto a massive city map and fight for survival. However, the game differentiates itself as an “Extraction Royale,” where players can find loot boxes that unlock cosmetic items, weapons, and skills if extracted or held to victory. This fusion of battle royale and extraction shooter mechanics injects an added layer of strategy.

Players can engage in PvP battles against other trios while simultaneously completing PvE storyline missions on the same map, creating a dynamic and unpredictable experience. Off The Grid promises to bring more than just gameplay, though, boasting 60 hours of narrative-driven content—a rarity in the battle royale genre. This deep narrative structure is tied into cinematics that bookend matches, further immersing players in the game’s rich world.

Blockchain and NFTs: Where Crypto Meets Gaming

While Off The Grid is still in early access, and crypto integration isn’t yet obvious in the gameplay, the blockchain elements are being woven into the game behind the scenes. Built on Avalanche’s GUNZ subnet, the game plans to introduce its own GUN token, which will be used for transactions within the game’s ecosystem.

At present, the GUNZ network is in testnet, but early activity is promising, with millions of wallets created in just the first week and an equal number of daily transactions recorded. Once the GUN token goes live on mainnet, players will be able to mint in-game items as NFTs, unlocking the ability to trade and sell their earned items on external marketplaces.

Gunzilla Games has also designed the GUNZ network with plans to expand its use beyond just Off The Grid, aiming to allow other developers to adopt the same tech in future games. The integration of crypto opens up new economic possibilities, allowing players to turn their gaming achievements into real-world value.

How to Play and Get Started

Getting into Off The Grid is simple. The game is available for early access on PS5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC via the Epic Games Store. Being a free-to-play game, all you need to do is download it on your platform of choice, boot it up, and jump into your first match. The current version of the game includes just one mode—Extraction Royale—and a single map, but future updates are expected to bring more modes and additional content.

For players familiar with battle royale games like Fortnite or Apex Legends, the core mechanics will feel familiar, though the addition of PvE missions and loot extraction brings new elements to the genre. Guides and resources are already available online to help new players get acquainted with the game’s unique mechanics.

Crypto Plans on the Horizon

While Off The Grid doesn’t currently feature full crypto functionality, it’s clear that blockchain and NFTs are at the heart of its long-term vision. The game is built on Avalanche’s GUNZ network, and the GUN token will serve as the primary currency for purchasing and trading in-game assets. Right now, GUN operates as an in-game currency, earned by completing missions and PvE objectives, but once the mainnet is live, it will open up possibilities for real-world trading and marketplace interactions.

Gunzilla Games has also emphasized that items players earn in-game can be minted as NFTs, making them truly unique and tradable across platforms. The ability to own and trade in-game assets in a decentralized manner offers a fresh take on how players interact with their virtual items and could attract both mainstream gamers and crypto enthusiasts alike.

The game has already started racking up impressive numbers on the GUNZ testnet, and the early activity suggests that blockchain gaming may finally be making a splash in the mainstream. Millions of daily transactions and wallets are evidence of this game’s potential impact.

Full Release and Future Expectations

There’s no official word yet on when Off The Grid will move out of early access and into full release, but early indications suggest that the game is on the right track. Gunzilla Games has invested heavily in the launch, even recruiting major streamers like Tyler “Ninja” Blevins and Seth “Scump” Abner to play the game for their audiences during the launch week. This has helped create significant buzz around the title, and its continued growth on platforms like Twitch shows that it’s resonating with players.

The real test for Off The Grid will come when its crypto and NFT elements are fully integrated. Blockchain games have struggled to gain traction with mainstream audiences in the past, but Off The Grid could be the game that changes that. Its early success proves that it has the gameplay foundation to keep players engaged, and if the NFT and crypto elements are well-implemented, they could provide a seamless way for players to earn real-world value through gaming.

Conclusion

Off The Grid is a game-changer, not just in the battle royale genre, but in the broader gaming landscape. By blending familiar battle royale mechanics with PvE missions, a rich narrative, and blockchain technology, it has already managed to stand out from the crowd. With the full release still to come, and NFT minting and crypto transactions on the horizon, Off The Grid could be the first blockchain game to capture the hearts of mainstream gamers.

Whether you’re in it for the action, the narrative, or the chance to earn and trade unique items, Off The Grid is a game worth watching—and playing.

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Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Adds Arachnophobia Mode — And It’s Not What You’d Expect

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Nintendo Cracking Down on Emulators

Gaming

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Adds Arachnophobia Mode — And It’s Not What You’d Expect

The upcoming Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 introduces a unique feature in its Zombies mode that caters to players with arachnophobia, but it’s turning heads for an unexpected reason. For the first time, Activision has created an arachnophobia setting specifically for the zombie-infested world of Black Ops 6, transforming spider-like enemies into something equally eerie—a floating torso with spiky teeth.

In a recent blog, Activision revealed the details behind this new accessibility feature. “For the first time in Black Ops 6 Zombies, a new arachnophobia toggle feature will be available. This setting will allow players to change the appearance of spider-like enemies in Zombies without affecting their gameplay,” reads the official statement. The accompanying image illustrates the transformation: a menacing spider beast with legs scuttling toward the player on one side, and on the other, a legless floating torso with sharp teeth when the arachnophobia mode is activated.

This mode is the latest in a growing list of accessibility options designed to improve gameplay for individuals with specific phobias or sensitivities. However, fans are divided. Some see the new floating torso as equally disturbing, if not worse than the spider creatures. But for those with a strong fear of spiders, it’s a welcome alternative that makes it possible to enjoy the thrill of Zombies mode without the anxiety of confronting spider-like enemies.

How It Works: Spiders to Torsos

The arachnophobia toggle offers players the chance to change their visual experience of spider-based enemies. This alternative design aims to retain the original enemy’s threat without the triggering spider-like characteristics, but the solution isn’t without its critics. The floating torso, designed to replace spiders’ legs with a leech-like, grotesque body, brings its own unique horror to the table. The choice to remove only the legs while keeping the same ominous movements has created a creepy new version of the character, unsettling in a way fans weren’t expecting.

While the design choice is divisive, the floating torsos fit right into the world of Black Ops 6 Zombies, adding another unsettling dimension to the dark and ominous landscape that has defined the Zombies mode since Call of Duty: World at War.

Why Arachnophobia Mode?

Accessibility in gaming has come a long way in recent years, and Activision’s inclusion of an arachnophobia mode is part of a larger trend of customisation that caters to the needs of diverse players. More games now include settings to mitigate common phobias, such as spiders, heights, and intense claustrophobia. These features make games accessible to more players, allowing those with specific fears to enjoy the same experiences without unnecessary stress.

While some other games have handled spider removal by replacing them with less intimidating animals or even abstract shapes, Black Ops 6’s approach is both ambitious and unconventional. Rather than entirely removing these creatures or replacing them with different animals, the toggle keeps a nightmarish quality in place, suiting the gritty aesthetic that the Call of Duty Zombies mode is known for.

The History of Zombies Mode

Introduced in Call of Duty: World at War, the Zombies mode has become an iconic part of the Call of Duty series, spawning a cult following and numerous spinoffs. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the most beloved multiplayer features, known for its dark, intense atmosphere and creative gameplay elements. With every new instalment, Activision has continued to push the boundaries, adding new types of undead creatures, enhanced customisation, and even story arcs that intertwine with the larger game universe.

In Black Ops 6, the new arachnophobia toggle exemplifies the ongoing commitment to accessibility without compromising the game’s signature style. It allows a broader audience to enjoy the thrill of Zombies mode while retaining the gritty horror that fans expect from the series.

How the Community is Responding

The reaction to the arachnophobia mode has been mixed. Some fans on social media expressed relief at the option, stating that the floating torso, while strange, is still more manageable than facing spiders. Others, however, found the replacement to be equally unsettling and even humorous, noting that it doesn’t fully eliminate the horror.

Nonetheless, the option provides a level of choice for players who might otherwise be deterred by the presence of spiders. For those with severe arachnophobia, it’s a step forward, showing how games can adapt to individual needs without diluting the gameplay experience.

Final Thoughts: A Step Forward in Accessibility

Black Ops 6’s arachnophobia mode might not be everyone’s preferred solution, but it is a testament to how far gaming has come in terms of accessibility. For players with specific phobias, these features are a welcome sign of inclusivity, offering the same high-energy experience without the mental strain of confronting deeply rooted fears. As more games adopt similar features, it’s clear that the industry is becoming more attuned to the varied needs of its player base.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and its new arachnophobia mode push the envelope, merging accessibility with the dark, immersive elements that define the Zombies experience. Whether it’s beloved by fans or questioned for its unique approach, this addition marks another step toward making games playable and enjoyable for all.

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Gaming

Nintendo Cracking Down on Emulators

Nintendo is tightening its grip on the world of emulation, leading to major developments in the scene. The popular Switch emulator Ryujinx has reportedly ended its development following a request from Nintendo, and the platform holder has also issued a copyright strike against a YouTube channel reviewing retro handheld emulators. Nintendo Cracking Down on Emulators is more prevalent now than ever.

Ryujinx was removed from GitHub, with one of its developers revealing on social media that the emulator’s creator, known as gdkchan, was contacted by Nintendo and “offered an agreement to stop working on the project, remove the organisation, and all related assets he’s in control of.”

“While awaiting confirmation on whether he would take this agreement, the organisation has been removed, so I think it’s safe to say what the outcome is,” the message continued, hinting at the end of Ryujinx development.

YouTube Channel Retro Game Corps Targeted

Nintendo’s legal actions didn’t stop at Ryujinx. Retro Game Corps, a YouTube channel known for reviewing modern handhelds running emulated titles, received a copyright strike from Nintendo. The channel’s creator issued a statement saying that their Wii U video was taken down, even though it followed the same format as previous tech demos and reviews on the channel.

“I am still considering a counterclaim under fair use, as the video was for educational purposes, transformative in nature, and had no effect on the market,”

However, the YouTuber expressed reluctance to pursue legal action against a “multi-billion dollar corporation” and stated that they would be adjusting future content. To avoid further strikes, the creator will no longer show Nintendo games on screen, blur any Nintendo-related content in videos, and take other precautions.

“I know this is disappointing news, but with now two strikes on my channel, I don’t really have any other choice except to adjust accordingly,” the YouTuber added.

Nintendo’s Long Fight Against Emulation

Nintendo’s crackdown on emulators is nothing new. The company has been actively fighting emulation for years, with legal action targeting popular projects and platforms. One notable example is Yuzu, another Switch emulator, whose developer Tropic Haze settled with Nintendo in March of last year. The developer agreed to pay $2.4 million to Nintendo, a clear indication of how seriously the company takes emulation.

The Future of Emulation Amid Nintendo’s Crackdown

As Nintendo continues its legal battle against emulation, the future of popular emulators like Ryujinx and Yuzu remains uncertain. For many, emulators provide access to games that are no longer commercially available, but the legal challenges from companies like Nintendo make the development and use of emulators increasingly risky.

While fans and creators in the emulation community argue that their work is for educational purposes and often transforms old hardware into modern experiences, Nintendo’s ongoing efforts suggest that the company will continue to aggressively defend its intellectual property.

Gaming

Sony Officially Announces the PlayStation 5 Pro – Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Sony has officially unveiled the PlayStation 5 Pro, a more powerful and advanced iteration of its current gaming console, set to release on November 7, 2024, for AED 2,600 and bring with it a suite of significant hardware upgrades designed to push gaming experiences to new heights. Featuring a 67% larger GPU, 28% faster memory, and advanced ray tracing capabilities, this release aims to cater to gamers looking for top-tier performance.

Mark Cerny, the lead architect of the PS5 Pro, confirmed these impressive updates during a PS5 Technical Presentation, where he explained the technology behind the new hardware. According to Cerny, the PS5 Pro enables players to enjoy higher frame rates and a smoother gaming experience. One of the most exciting new features is PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR), an AI-driven upscaling system that enhances visual fidelity by adding more detail and sharpness to in-game graphics.

“The next generation of PS5 Pro is all about offering players what they need – better frame rates, enhanced graphics, and a smoother overall experience,”

Design and Features: A Powerful Upgrade

Design-wise, the PS5 Pro sports a look similar to the recently leaked images online. While resembling the PS5 Slim, the Pro variant features a distinctive stripe pattern on either side. This aesthetic change sets the console apart and hints at the power it holds within.

The PS5 Pro also boasts several internal upgrades, most notably the 2TB SSD, which provides ample storage space for players’ growing game libraries. Loading times will be virtually non-existent thanks to the console’s increased storage and processing power. Additionally, the PS5 Pro will come equipped with Wi-Fi 7, ensuring faster online connectivity and smoother gameplay experiences for gamers in regions that support the standard.

For those who prefer physical media, the PS5 Pro is a disc-less console, meaning it won’t come with a disc drive. However, players have the option to purchase a compatible external disc drive separately, providing some flexibility.

Enhanced Game Library and “PS5 Pro Enhanced” Titles

One of the most exciting aspects of the PS5 Pro is its ability to deliver enhanced gameplay experiences for both new and existing games. Sony has introduced the PS5 Pro Enhanced label, which will identify games optimized to take advantage of the Pro’s upgraded hardware. Titles like Alan Wake 2, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, and Assassin’s Creed: Shadows are just a few examples of upcoming games that will benefit from the Pro’s increased performance capabilities.

Additionally, the PS5 Pro will support backward compatibility for over 8,500 PS4 games, thanks to its PS5 Pro Game Boost feature. This technology ensures that older games will see improvements in performance and image quality, offering a fresh experience for those diving back into their PS4 libraries. Whether you’re playing new titles or revisiting old favorites, the PS5 Pro delivers superior gaming performance across the board.

PS5 Pro Game Boost and Compatibility

The PS5 Pro Game Boost feature not only enhances backward-compatible PS4 games but also stabilizes the performance of PS5 games that may have had minor frame rate or resolution issues on the base PS5 model. According to Sony, this feature will ensure a smoother experience across all supported titles, giving gamers an overall better performance, no matter what they choose to play.

In terms of accessories, players need not worry about replacing their existing PS5 gear. The PS5 Pro will be fully compatible with current accessories, including PlayStation VR2, the DualSense wireless controller, PlayStation Portal, and the upcoming Pulse Elite wireless headset. This makes upgrading to the PS5 Pro seamless for those already invested in the PS5 ecosystem.

Pre-Orders and Availability

Sony has confirmed that pre-orders for the PS5 Pro will begin on September 26, 2024, with the console becoming available at participating retailers and directly through PlayStation’s website. Early buyers will receive a DualSense wireless controller and Astro’s Playroom pre-installed on their console. The PS5 Pro will officially hit the shelves on November 7, 2024, just in time for the holiday season, making it the perfect gift for gamers seeking the best hardware on the market.

A Look Into the Future of Gaming

The PS5 Pro isn’t just a mid-gen refresh; it’s a glimpse into the future of gaming. With cutting-edge technology, enhanced performance, and AI-driven features, the PS5 Pro is set to redefine what’s possible in home gaming. The console’s ray tracing capabilities, faster rendering, and superior image quality promise to deliver an unmatched experience across both new and old games.

For gamers and tech enthusiasts alike, the PS5 Pro represents the next step in gaming evolution—offering performance, design, and features that cater to the demands of modern gaming. Whether you’re exploring expansive open worlds, battling through intense multiplayer sessions, or revisiting classic titles, the PS5 Pro ensures every game looks and plays better than ever.