Video Games
Microsoft Acquires Bethesda Parent Company ZeniMax, Gaining Exclusivity to ‘Fallout’ and ‘DOOM’ Franchises
It’s a wonder what $7.5 billion will get you these days. That’s exactly what Microsoft shelled out for ZeniMax Media, the parent company of Bethesda Softworks. Essentially, Bethesda is now owned by Microsoft, and with it, franchises like Fallout, DOOM, The Elder Scrolls and more.
Not only does this mean that Bethesda will become a first-party Microsoft studio, but it also means that Bethesda will be developing games exclusively for Xbox services across consoles such as the Xbox Series X and S, along with PC. Future entries in the mentioned series will launch as exclusives on these platforms, as well as being available to play on Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass service.
Xbox head Phil Spencer confirmed that Bethesda’s library of games and its back catalogue will be available via Xbox Game Pass. When asked about the PlayStation 5, Spencer stated that Bethesda will honour Sony deals for games like Deathloop and Ghostwire: Tokyo, but that future games by Bethesda “will be on Xbox, PC, and other consoles on a case by case basis.”
No doubt this is a huge blow to Sony, which had just announced the PS5 release date last week. Microsoft is now able to add these franchises as part of Game Pass, providing another incentive to sign up for its already beefy subscription service. What the future holds for Bethesda’s franchises on Sony’s console is unclear.
Video Games
‘Dying Light 2’ Receives New Difficulty Mode and More With “Nightmare Mode” Update [Trailer]
Not to be outdone by Dead Island 2‘s recent expansion, Techland has announced that Dying Light 2 is getting an update of it’s own with the much-requested Nightmare Mode, which adds “the hardest and most immersive difficulty yet” to the game, along with an array of additional elements.
Nightmare Mode for Dying Light 2 forces players to rely on tactics and strategic management of resources in order to survive. The new difficulty introduces changes to stamina management, called the Tactical Stamina system, limited HUD options for better immersion, and a flickering flashlight that goes out when used for too long. These and other additions aim to heighten the atmosphere give the overall experience a needed refresh for veteran players. Those who manage to complete the game on this highest difficulty will be rewarded with the memorable Waltz Outfit.
The Nightmare Mode Update adds more than just the new difficulty. New adjustments to the Infected and night experience are also part of the update. What’s more, co-op players will be glad to hear they will now be able to take on the Community Maps with up to three friends. Archers will get reworked power shot mechanics. And you even have the opportunity to change the appearance of the Grappling Hook.
Dying Light 2 is available for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series, Xbox One, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store.
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