Tech

Cyberpunk 2077's Character Creator Should Have Been Better – But Why Tho? A Geek Community

Published

4 years ago

December 13, 2020

Reading Time: 4 minutes

When Cyberpunk 2077 was originally announced, I was understandably ecstatic. Not only am I a huge cyberpunk fan, but LGBTQ+ issues are both important to me and personally impact me. So, seeing that CD PROJEKT RED seemed to be taking the inclusion of trans and non-binary identities into consideration with their character creator was a highlight of my year. But, after getting my hands on the game, I’m sad to say that I’m a bit disappointed. There are certainly some novel changes made that put other RPGs to shame, but there aren’t enough changes in Cyberpunk 2077’s character creator to call it ground-breaking.

When the demo first arrived, Cyberpunk 2077’s character creator required players to pick between a female and a male model before getting down to the nitty-gritty. Following feedback from gamers about inclusivity, CD PROJEKT RED decided to remove sex and instead required players to pick between two body types. Along with the possibility of mixing and matching all physical characteristics, instead of having them sex-locked like other games, this really felt like a huge step in allowing trans and non-binary people to express themselves in a video game.

After getting ahold of the game, I can assuredly say that all of the above changes are mostly true. However, two-character options are body-type locked. Only the feminine body type can have breasts, and only the masculine body type can have facial hair. Similarly, some hairstyles are body-type locked though there is a significant overlap, so unless you’re looking for the differences, you probably won’t notice. The male model also requires you to have stubble despite turning the beard option off which may also prove bothersome to some people.

For most people, these options won’t pose a problem, but it’s nevertheless odd to me to remove sex from the character creator and still have features that are locked to the ideas of male and female. Not to mention that body modification is so pervasive in the world of Cyberpunk 2077. I doubt people would adhere to characteristics that are strictly masculine or feminine. And I suppose we can applaud CD PROJEKT RED for allowing both character models to wear makeup. But by no means is Cyberpunk 2077, the first to accomplish this. Mass Effect: Andromeda led the charge on that one. But I will say that the choice not to link body-type to genitalia is certainly a step in the right direction, although this is the first time I’ve ever seen genitalia in an RPG character creator.

Another prominent option in Cyberpunk 2077’s character creator is voice tone. There are only two tones: a feminine and a masculine. I have no problem with these specifically (although it would have been nice to have a more gender-neutral option as well). What I do have a problem with is that your character’s pronouns are linked to the tone of voice. This feels like an extremely odd decision when everything else about your character is a choice. I honestly can’t think of a single reason why this would be designed like this.

In regards to a gender-neutral voice option or gender-neutral pronouns, there is the possibility that CD PROJEKT RED wanted to limit the amount of dialogue they had to record. However, there are very few times during my playthrough that V was gendered. Given that I played with a masculine voice, there were a few misters and sirs but rarely did I hear he/his/him. If this was truly a problem, CD PROJEKT RED could have gone the same route as Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey and only referred to the main character by name. All in all, there are easy ways around recording multiple versions of dialogue, so the lack of inclusivity when it comes to non-binary people is inexcusable, given previous changes to the character creation.

With this seemingly half-hearted attempt at inclusivity, it makes CD PROJEKT RED’s snafu regarding an advertisement featuring a trans person in-game all the more questionable. Yes, Cyberpunk 2077 is not supposed to represent an aspirational future, quite the opposite, really. But to support the use of this ad, I expected to experience quests or subtext surrounding corporations’ abuse of minorities such as trans people. There are some themes circulating around the commodification of people’s bodies and the over-sexualization by corporations, but rarely does it feel like you specifically fight against this as a whole. This subtext may yet be hidden away in a side quest somewhere, but there is minimal thematic context in the main plot regarding this sort of ad. Add on the fact that I have yet to see an actual trans NPC, and the lack of reflection on the fetishization of trans people in this world only makes this bad attempt at inclusivity all the more frustrating.

Thankfully, most of the game is played in first-person, so you don’t see your character unless you’re equipping weapons or clothes. However, I am gravely disappointed in this attempt at inclusivity. It really isn’t that hard to include non-binary and trans people in video games. And it truly feels like Cyberpunk 2077’s character creator came close to being wonderful but nevertheless missed the mark. If anything, we should use this as a source of discussion about the right way to support trans people in future video games.

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Tech

How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

Published

3 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:

Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.

Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers

While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:

Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source

Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:

Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.

3. Sign Up for Notifications

Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.

Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.

4. Prepare for High Demand

Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:

Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.

Final Thoughts

The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.

For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.

Tech

Introducing the PlayStation 5 Pro: The Next Evolution in Gaming

Published

3 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.

Key Features of the PS5 Pro

The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:

Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.

Optimized Games & Patches

Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:

Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West

These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.

Design & Compatibility

Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.

Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.

Pricing & Availability

The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:

$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY

Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.

The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.

Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.

Tech

Google Unveils AI-Powered Pixel 9 Lineup Ahead of Apple’s iPhone 16 Release

Published

1 month ago

August 13, 2024

Harry Miller

Google has launched its next generation of Pixel phones, setting the stage for a head-to-head competition with Apple as both tech giants aim to integrate more advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features into their flagship devices. The unveiling took place near Google’s Mountain View headquarters, marking an early debut for the Pixel 9 lineup, which is designed to showcase the latest advancements in AI technology.

The Pixel 9 series, although a minor player in global smartphone sales, is a crucial platform for Google to demonstrate the cutting-edge capabilities of its Android operating system. With AI at the core of its strategy, Google is positioning the Pixel 9 phones as vessels for the transformative potential of AI, a trend that is expected to revolutionize the way people interact with technology.

Rick Osterloh, Google’s senior vice president overseeing the Pixel phones, emphasized the company’s commitment to AI, stating, “We are obsessed with the idea that AI can make life easier and more productive for people.” This echoes the narrative Apple is likely to push when it unveils its iPhone 16, which is also expected to feature advanced AI capabilities.

The Pixel 9 lineup will be the first to fully integrate Google’s Gemini AI technology, designed to enhance user experience through more natural, conversational interactions. The Gemini assistant, which features 10 different human-like voices, can perform a wide array of tasks, particularly if users allow access to their emails and documents.

In an on-stage demonstration, the Gemini assistant showcased its ability to generate creative ideas and even analyze images, although it did experience some hiccups when asked to identify a concert poster for singer Sabrina Carpenter.

To support these AI-driven features, Google has equipped the Pixel 9 with a special chip that enables many AI processes to be handled directly on the device. This not only improves performance but also enhances user privacy and security by reducing the need to send data to remote servers.

Google’s aggressive push into AI with the Pixel 9 comes as Apple prepares to unveil its iPhone 16, which is expected to feature its own AI advancements. However, Google’s decision to offer a one-year free subscription to its advanced Gemini Assistant, valued at $240, may pressure Apple to reconsider any plans to charge for its AI services.

The standard Pixel 9 will be priced at $800, a $100 increase from last year, while the Pixel 9 Pro will range between $1,000 and $1,100, depending on the model. Google also announced the next iteration of its foldable Pixel phone, priced at $1,800.

In addition to the new Pixel phones, Google also revealed updates to its Pixel Watch and wireless earbuds, directly challenging Apple’s dominance in the wearable tech market. These products, like the Pixel 9, are designed to integrate seamlessly with Google’s AI-driven ecosystem.

Google’s event took place against the backdrop of a significant legal challenge, with a judge recently ruling that its search engine constitutes an illegal monopoly. This ruling could lead to further court proceedings that may force Google to make significant changes to its business practices, potentially impacting its Android software or other key components of its $2 trillion empire.

Despite these legal hurdles, Google is pressing forward with its vision of an AI-powered future, using its latest devices to showcase what it believes will be the next big leap in technology. As the battle for AI supremacy heats up, consumers can expect both Google and Apple to push the boundaries of what their devices can do, making the choice between them more compelling than ever.