Tech

Nintendo's Relationship With Competitive Smash Community Gets Trickier After Scandal – IGN

Published

4 years ago

July 28, 2020

Earlier this month, the fighting game community erupted with allegations of sexual misconduct across all levels, from top-level pros, commentators, and organizers. The allegations largely centered on the Super Smash Bros. fighting game community and, in a rare move from the Japanese company, Nintendo issued a statement supporting the victims.“At Nintendo, we are deeply disturbed by the allegations raised against certain members of the competitive gaming community,” Nintendo said in a statement when asked by IGN. “They are absolutely impermissible. We want to make it clear that we condemn all acts of violence, harassment, and exploitation against anyone and that we stand with the victims.”

The statement is rare because historically Nintendo has distanced itself from the Super Smash Bros. fighting game scene. Unlike companies like Riot or Blizzard, who work directly to manage the competitive scene built up around their games, Nintendo has studiously distanced itself, and even actively worked against a community that loves its fighting games.

The statement caused a stir in the Smash community precisely because Nintendo doesn’t often associate itself with the grassroots fighting game organizations: “It’s official. Nintendo’s pulling the plug. We’re f***ed,” Tweeted one fan in response to the statement.

“Well well, Nintendo has never supported the competitive scene. Now they want to complain about it. What a plot twist” commented another.

“From the perspective of the Smash community, [Nintendo] appears to be relatively selective, and as hands-off as possible,” Christina “Chia” Korsak, a 14-year veteran of the Smash Bros. community, said in an interview with IGN.

This means Super Smash Bros. fighting game tournaments are by and large grassroots affairs, run by third-parties, and technically unofficial. Rather than antipathy, Nintendo corporate has a history of taking action against grassroots competitive Smash.

By being a Nintendo sponsored event we didn’t really get much, but instead had to abide by certain restrictions…

“

In 2013 Evo held a donation drive to determine which video game would take the 8th slot for the show’s roster. The community that donated the most money would earn a place for their chosen game in Evo 2013, and the Smash Bros. community managed to “win” a spot for Super Smash Bros. Melee.

Despite this good-natured campaign, Nintendo attempted first to shut down Smash Bros. from even appearing in Evo, before trying to block live streams of the game from the event. After an outcry, Nintendo backed off and a Smash Bros. Melee tournament was allowed to proceed. But the resistance from Nintendo would color the community’s relationship with the developer for the years to come.

The lack of official sponsorship didn’t deter the Smash Bros. community. Artist Jaqueline “Jisu” Choe described the smaller grassroots events as “lowkey and inviting.”

Choe says that the Smash community became what it is because Smash fans took it upon themselves to build up the scene. “If it weren’t for the active volunteer work of many smart, capable individuals, then tournaments would simply not exist. A lot of the important work is thankless, so there’s no incentive to actually stand up for it.”

While the camaraderie of the grassroots scene made the community close, Choe says that it left the door open to disorganization and there was a limitation to what the community could organize on its own. “A lot of accountability is lost… Simple business transactions also become muddied by the guise of ‘friendships’ and things could get very messy and ugly very fast.”

Earlier this month Smash 4 pro player Gonzalo “Zero” Barrios apologized to Choe and another community member named Katie after admitting to inappropriate flirting with Katie when she was 15.

Every Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Fighter

In 2015, Nintendo began sponsoring a handful of fighting game tournaments and events. This meant there were some Nintendo booths and demo kiosks, but Korsak says this wasn’t much of an improvement, and far from the level of support shown by other fighting game-adjacent developers and publishers.

“From the public looking in, we had some game demos or booths from Nintendo at a few events, and maybe a few tweets about the events. No huge prize pots or organization of any kind though.”

While Korsak says that the acknowledgment of the community was beneficial, overall it wasn’t the embrace the community was hoping for. “By being a Nintendo sponsored event we didn’t really get much, but instead had to abide by certain restrictions by them such as — not playing third-party modified games such as Project M at events, not using other game modifications like 20XX, broadcast restrictions with certain licensed music tracks, and more.”

[Ed note: 20XX is a mod for Super Smash Bros. Melee that add features more conducive to tournament play, while Project M is a mod for Super Smash Bros. Brawl that makes the gameplay closer to the one in Melee.]

I believe all the events that have transpired will either prompt them to come in or permanently keep them away.

“

It likely won’t help future relations that Nintendo’s meager overtures to the community have also been caught in the crossfires of the scandal. Smash Bros. pro Nairoby “Nairo” Quezada was one of the community members accused of sexual misconduct. They’ve been dropped from their esports team NRG, and videos of them appearing on official Nintendo clips have been removed from the company’s YouTube channel.

Still, Nintendo’s distance from the Smash Bros. competitive scene is well-known and felt by the community and fans are ultimately hurt that Nintendo’s condemnation is one of the few statements Nintendo’s officially released about the Smash community.

Others, however, see potential reasoning for Nintendo: “Maybe the community never deserved Nintendo’s attention in the first place because the community is a cesspool of toxicity,” laments one twitter user. “The community needs to stop acting like they deserve Nintendo’s attention.”

“If Nintendo actually introduced structure and organization to help facilitate stable pay and avenues for people who experience physical/sexual assault, then we’d have a much cleaner scene,” disagrees Choe.

When asked if she’d like to see Nintendo take a more active role in the community in the future, Choe echoed similar sentiments from other community members online.

“Would I like to [see Nintendo more involved]? Yes. Do I think it’s going to happen? No. Nintendo has been very firm on its beliefs, even at the dismay of many, and I believe all the events that have transpired will either prompt them to come in or permanently keep them away.”

Ultimately, Choe says the Smash community is what it is today because of how grassroots it is, and that official sponsorship will take away “the beauty of what make the community so great.”

“It’s a give or take situation where objectively, it is better for Nintendo to be in the picture, but even without them, the scene has built itself up into one of the most unique gaming communities and will continue to carry itself on its own shoulders.”

Matt T.M. Kim is a reporter for IGN.

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Tech

How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

Published

2 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

2 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

4 weeks 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.