PlayStation Plus Kicks Off 2024 with a Spooky, Action-Packed Trio!
Get ready to dive into a new year of gaming goodness, PlayStation Plus subscribers! Sony has revealed the free games for January 2024, and it’s a diverse lineup promising something for everyone. From stealthy scares to supernatural gun slinging to a delightfully chaotic dungeon crawl, January’s PS Plus offerings are sure to keep you glued to your controller.
A Plague Tale: Requiem (PS5): Embark on a harrowing journey through plague-ravaged France in this sequel to the acclaimed A Plague Tale: Innocence. Amicia and Hugo return, facing off against both the Inquisition and swarms of ravenous rats as they desperately seek a cure for Hugo’s mysterious illness. Prepare for a gripping narrative, stunning visuals, and plenty of heart-pounding moments as you navigate this dark and atmospheric adventure.
Evil West (PS4, PS5): Saddle up for a wild ride in Evil West, a stylish action-adventure that blends classic Western tropes with supernatural horror. Play as Jesse Rentier, a vampire-hunting bounty hunter tasked with cleaning up the frontier overrun by monstrous creatures. Think cowboys meet eldritch abominations, with guns blazing, axes swinging, and explosive gadgets aplenty. Expect over-the-top action, tongue-in-cheek humor, and a satisfyingly pulpy campaign.
Nobody Saves the World (PS4, PS5): For those seeking a dose of quirky charm and chaotic fun, Nobody Saves the World delivers. This unique dungeon crawler lets you transform into a variety of wacky forms, from a rat to a mermaid to a giant blob, each with their own unique abilities. Experiment with different combinations, discover hidden secrets, and tackle procedurally generated dungeons in your own weird and wonderful way. Laughter and head-scratching moments are guaranteed in this one-of-a-kind adventure.
Bonus Goodies: Warframe fans can also snag an exclusive Syrinx Collection Pack in January, featuring cosmetic items and resources to boost your in-game experience.
Available from January 2nd: All three games will be available to download for free to PlayStation Plus Essential, Extra, and Premium subscribers starting Tuesday, January 2nd. Make sure to grab them before they disappear at the beginning of February!
So, what do you think of January’s PlayStation Plus lineup? Are you excited to face your fears in A Plague Tale, go demon-hunting in Evil West, or embrace the absurd in Nobody Saves the World? Share your thoughts and predictions for future PS Plus offerings in the comments below!
Fortnite Xbox Players Experience Loss of Infinite Drift Pack Skins
In a surprising turn of events, Epic Games has rolled back the recent movement changes in Fortnite after facing intense backlash from its dedicated player base. The update, implemented earlier this month, aimed to introduce smoother animations and a more tactical pacing to the game. However, players quickly found the changes to be clunky, disorienting, and detrimental to the core gameplay experience.
Let’s talk movement. TBH, it took us a few days to get used to it during our playtests too.
We want to introduce visual improvements & encourage more strategic decision-making in each moment. Here’s what changed:
-New animations! -Run and sprint speed slightly slower (but…
From social media platforms to Reddit forums, the Fortnite community erupted with frustration. Players voiced their concerns about the sluggish feel of movement, the nerfed building mechanics, and the overall loss of fluidity that had defined Fortnite’s combat for years. The hashtag #RevertFortniteMovement trended on Twitter, showcasing the widespread discontent.
Epic Listens (This Time):
To their credit, Epic Games didn’t stay tone-deaf to the growing negativity. The developers acknowledged the community’s feedback and, unlike some past controversies, actively engaged in discussions to understand the issues. This open communication and willingness to course-correct earned them some goodwill from the disgruntled players.
Back to Building Better:
The revert update, thankfully, brings back the familiar movement mechanics enjoyed by millions. Building feels snappier, sprinting is once again fluid, and overall, the fast-paced action that Fortnite is known for has returned. While some minor animation changes remain, the core gameplay experience is largely back to its pre-update state.
Lessons Learned:
This episode serves as a valuable lesson for developers regarding the importance of player feedback. Listening to your community, being transparent, and adapting to their needs are crucial elements of maintaining a healthy and vibrant gaming environment. While not all changes will be universally loved, taking the time to understand and address concerns can go a long way in fostering trust and maintaining a loyal player base.
The Future of Fortnite:
While the movement controversy is hopefully behind us, Epic Games undoubtedly learned a valuable lesson from this experience. Moving forward, they’ll have to tread carefully with future changes, ensuring they strike a balance between innovation and respecting the core gameplay elements that make Fortnite a global phenomenon.
A 7-star Tera Raid Battle is set to bring Christmas festivities to Paldea.
Calling all Pokemon Scarlet and Violet players! Get ready to dive into a frosty new challenge, because the mighty Iron Bundle is making a splash in the latest Tera Raid event. From Thursday, December 21st at 4:00 PM PST to Sunday, December 24th at 3:59 PM PST, grab your strongest trainers and prepare to face this Paradox Delibird in a chilling Ice-type Tera Raid.
A Bundle of Trouble:
Iron Bundle is no ordinary Delibird. This futuristic avian boasts incredible speed, powerful Ice-type attacks, and a unique design that’s sure to send shivers down your spine. Be prepared for a fight like no other, as Iron Bundle utilizes its signature weapon, the “Snowl Cannon,” to unleash devastating blizzards and freezing rays.
Icy Rewards Await:
But the risks come with a frosty reward. Catching Iron Bundle during this event guarantees it will have the Mightiest Mark and, more importantly, six perfect IVs! This makes it a valuable addition to any competitive team, and a trophy for completionists. Additionally, defeating the raid boss will shower you with Ice-type Tera Shards, perfect for boosting your own Ice-type Pokemon’s moves.
Tips for Trainers:
Don’t underestimate Iron Bundle’s icy grip! Here are some tips to overcome this chilling challenge:
Fire Up Your Counters: Fire and Fighting-type attacks are super effective against Ice, so bring out your Charizard, Blaziken, or Lucario to melt the iron and deal heavy damage.
Weather the Storm: Iron Bundle can summon hail, which weakens Grass-type attacks and boosts its own Ice moves. Consider using Sunny Day or Clear Smog to counter this weather advantage.
Gear Up for Defense: Pack some defensive items like Rocky Helmet or Leftovers to weather Iron Bundle’s icy onslaught.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Coordinate with other trainers to unleash powerful combos and take down Iron Bundle before it freezes you out.
Don’t Miss the Freeze!:
So, Trainers, mark your calendars, grab your strongest Pokemon, and prepare for a thrilling encounter with Iron Bundle. This limited-time event is your chance to claim a powerful Ice-type powerhouse and earn valuable rewards. Just remember, this is no walk in the park, so come prepared and battle smart!
Will you be taking on Iron Bundle in this icy Tera Raid event? Share your strategies and team picks in the comments below!
Reflecting on Xbox’s 2023 journey, these six points stand out as memorable moments for me.
2023 has been a year to remember for Xbox gamers. From groundbreaking announcements to mind-blowing gameplay experiences, the year has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride of excitement. As we close in on the final chapter, let’s take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and relive some of the most exhilarating moments that cemented Xbox’s place as a gaming powerhouse.
Early Access Adventures:
Who can forget the electrifying buzz surrounding the early access weekend for Starfield? Stepping onto Bethesda’s meticulously crafted alien planet for the first time was a breath of fresh air, a true leap into the next generation of open-world exploration. Every glitch and quirky encounter felt like a shared discovery, solidifying the moment as a water-cooler topic for weeks to come.
E3 Explosions:
E3 2023 may have taken on a different form, but the impact was undeniable. The Xbox & Bethesda Games Showcase left us speechless with jaw-dropping trailers for Hellblade 2, Arkane’s mysterious Redfall, and the long-awaited return of Indiana Jones, all coming exclusively to Xbox and PC. The reveal of Kojima Productions’ “OD,” shrouded in its cryptic brilliance, further solidified Xbox’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of interactive storytelling.
Blizzard of Acquisitions:
The gaming landscape shifted on its axis when Microsoft officially acquired Activision Blizzard. While the implications are still unfolding, the sheer magnitude of the deal signaled a profound shift in power, showcasing Microsoft’s audacious vision for the future of gaming. This move promises to bring iconic franchises like Call of Duty and Overwatch under the Xbox umbrella, potentially reshaping the industry as we know it.
Diablo’s Demonic Descent:
Hack-and-slash enthusiasts rejoiced when Diablo 4 finally unleashed its wrath. The return to Sanctuary was everything we craved, a faithful yet modernized take on the iconic series. From the gruesome landscapes to the satisfyingly visceral combat, Diablo 4 proved that the devilish charm of the franchise remains as potent as ever.
Forza’s Ferocious Future:
The Forza Horizon series pushed the boundaries of open-world racing yet again with Forza Horizon 5’s vibrant and diverse Mexican map. From scaling snow-capped volcanoes to carving through lush jungles, the sheer breadth and accessibility of Forza Horizon 5’s playground cemented its place as a racing masterpiece.
Beyond the Big Hits:
While these moments may have dominated the headlines, 2023 was also a year for hidden gems. Smaller titles like Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course, Cult of the Lamb, and Citizen Sleeper all surprised and delighted with their unique charm and innovative gameplay.
A Year of Milestones:
2023 also marked significant milestones for Xbox beyond individual games. The launch of Game Pass on new platforms like Amazon Luna expanded accessibility, while the continued focus on diversity and inclusion initiatives solidified Xbox’s commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive gaming community for all.
As we turn the page on 2023, one thing is clear: Xbox has delivered a year brimming with unforgettable moments. From groundbreaking announcements to genre-defining masterpieces, it’s been a testament to the platform’s commitment to innovation and player-centric experiences. With a glimpse into the future promises of Hellblade 2, Starfield, and so much more, one thing is certain: the best is yet to come for Xbox. Here’s to an even more thrilling year of gaming in 2024!
Calling all Valorant duelists in Bangalore! The U-25 Blitz Cup thunders into town, offering a thrilling platform for aspiring esports players to showcase their skills and compete for a hefty INR 50,000 prize pool. This electrifying tournament, held on December 17th, promises an adrenaline-pumping showdown filled with tactical maneuvers, clutch plays, and unforgettable moments.
Why the U-25 Blitz Cup Matters:
For aspiring Valorant players in Bangalore, the U-25 Blitz Cup is more than just a competition; it’s a launchpad. It’s a chance to step onto the competitive stage, test their mettle against skilled opponents, and gain valuable experience in the ever-growing esports scene. The tournament offers a platform to:
Showcase Talent: Demonstrate your Valorant prowess on a competitive stage, potentially catching the eye of professional teams and scouts.
Gain Recognition: Build your reputation in the Bangalore esports community, establishing yourself as a rising star.
Win Big: Compete for a share of the INR 50,000 prize pool, a significant boost for any aspiring player’s career.
Experience the Thrill: Immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of live competition, forging memories and friendships that last a lifetime.
The Battleground Awaits:
The U-25 Blitz Cup welcomes teams of five players, all eager to prove their dominance on the Valorant battlefield. The tournament format promises an intense journey, with:
Open Qualifiers: Open to all teams, this initial stage allows anyone to prove their worth and fight for a spot in the main event.
Main Event: The top teams from the qualifiers clash in a high-stakes bracketed tournament, where every match is a nail-biting battle for survival.
Grand Finals: The ultimate showdown, where the two best teams face off for the coveted championship title and the lion’s share of the prize pool.
More Than Just a Tournament:
The U-25 Blitz Cup is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of the Valorant community in Bangalore. Spectators can expect:
Live Stream: Witness the action unfold live, cheering on their favorite teams and soaking in the competitive spirit.
Cosplay Zone: Unleash your inner Valorant agent and showcase your creativity with a dedicated cosplay zone.
Meet and Greets: Interact with esports personalities, professional players, and fellow fans, forging connections and building the community.
So, are you ready to answer the call? Gather your squad, sharpen your skills, and prepare to enter the U-25 Blitz Cup. This is your chance to shine, carve your name in the Bangalore esports scene, and claim your share of glory.
For more information on the U-25 Blitz Cup, including registration details and event updates, follow the official channels and stay tuned!
Remember, the future of Valorant in Bangalore might just be forged in the fires of the U-25 Blitz Cup. Will you be a part of it?
Activision Blizzard, the gaming giant behind popular franchises like Call of Duty and World of Warcraft, is facing backlash from its quality assurance (QA) workers over a new mandatory return-to-office policy. The policy, which was announced in October 2023, requires all QA workers to return to the office full-time starting in January 2024.
Reasons for the Protest
The policy has been met with strong opposition from many QA workers, who argue that it is unfair and impractical. They cite a number of reasons for their opposition, including:
The cost of relocation and commuting: Many QA workers live far from the company’s offices, and they would have to incur significant costs to relocate or commute. For example, a QA worker living in Orange County, California, would have to face an average commute time of over an hour and pay high gas prices to reach the company’s headquarters in Santa Monica.
The impact on childcare and eldercare: Many QA workers have childcare or eldercare responsibilities that would be difficult to manage if they had to go back to the office full-time. A survey conducted by the ABK Workers Alliance found that 70% of respondents had childcare or eldercare responsibilities that would be impacted by the return-to-office policy.
The effectiveness of remote work: Many QA workers have been working remotely for the past two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and they have been productive and efficient during that time. A study by Stanford University found that remote workers were 13% more productive than their in-office counterparts.
Calling it a “Soft Layoff”
The ABK Workers Alliance, a union representing Activision Blizzard workers, has called the new policy a “soft layoff.” They argue that it will force many QA workers to quit their jobs, as they will not be able to afford to relocate or commute, or they will not be able to find childcare or eldercare. The union estimates that up to 30% of QA workers could be forced to leave the company as a result of the policy.
Activision Blizzard’s Response
Activision Blizzard has defended the new policy, saying that it is necessary to improve collaboration and communication among employees. The company has also said that it will offer some financial assistance to help employees with relocation costs. However, the amount of financial assistance offered has been criticized by the union as being inadequate.
The Union’s Demands
The ABK Workers Alliance is demanding that Activision Blizzard rescind the mandatory return-to-office policy and allow QA workers to continue working remotely. They are also demanding that the company provide better pay and benefits for QA workers. QA workers are some of the lowest-paid employees at Activision Blizzard, and they often have to work long hours under demanding conditions.
The Future of the Dispute
It is unclear how the dispute between Activision Blizzard and its QA workers will be resolved. The union has said that it is prepared to take legal action if the company does not rescind the policy. The outcome of this dispute could have a significant impact on the future of remote work in the gaming industry.
Additional Notes
This is an ongoing story, and new developments may emerge in the coming days and weeks.
I have tried to present the facts of the situation in a neutral and objective manner.
I have included links to sources so that you can learn more about the story.
Stay tuned, Guardians, as Bungie’s next frontier might be in your pocket
Rumors are swirling around the galaxy, hinting at a bold new frontier for Guardians: a Destiny mobile game. Whispers suggest that Bungie and NetEase Games have joined forces to craft a first-person shooter experience for your pocket.
This speculation stems from two sources. First, an artist at NetEase posted on LinkedIn about their involvement in developing “an unannounced FPS mobile game” with Bungie. Second, The Game Post claims an insider revealed the game’s identity: a brand-new addition to the Destiny series, separate from Destiny 2 but sharing its rich universe and lore.
While details remain shrouded in mystery, the potential for a mobile Destiny is electrifying. Imagine grinding bounties on your commute, strategizing raids during lunch break, or unleashing the Light’s power at a moment’s notice. The possibilities are as vast as the cosmos itself.
Of course, skepticism lingers. Can a mobile game capture the essence of Destiny’s epic gunplay and intricate world-building? How will Bungie balance accessibility with the series’ signature depth? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Guardians, prepare to sharpen your blades, dust off your Ghosts, and answer the call to adventure – perhaps even on the smallest of screens.
So, keep your eyes peeled, Guardians. News of this mobile venture might just drop from the Traveler itself, and we’ll be here to guide you through every twist and turn. Stay tuned, and may the Light be with you, wherever you roam.
In response to longstanding rumors, Bungie appears to be gearing up for a significant addition to the Destiny franchise with the development of a major mobile game. The speculation gained traction after official job listings from the game developer surfaced, seeking to fill key roles for an upcoming Destiny title. Bungie’s job listings included positions for an art director, executive producer, and senior test manager, emphasizing the need for candidates experienced in AAA mobile gaming and possessing expertise in the Destiny intellectual property. This move suggests Bungie’s strategic expansion into the mobile gaming realm within the Destiny universe.
In a recent leak, details emerged suggesting that the upcoming Destiny project is potentially codenamed ‘Goliath.’ A job listing for the position of principal producer shed light on the project’s responsibilities, indicating tasks such as “Fostering an understanding of ‘Goliath’ goals and vision across your teams” and “Working with the ‘Goliath’ Leadership Team and other Producers to help define and deliver on the roadmap of future Destiny releases.” Notably, the listing was subsequently revised, removing all references to the term ‘Goliath.’
In a move that’s equal parts genius and hilarious, Valve is cracking down on Dota 2 smurf accounts with a unique twist: “seasonal rewards” that pack a permanent ban under the guise of coal. Yes, you read that right. Naughty players, including even pro-player mason, found themselves unexpectedly gifted lumps of coal that turned out to be tickets to Dota 2 purgatory.
Mason’s wide-eyed shock in a now-viral clip perfectly captures the surprise of unsuspecting recipients who unwittingly triggered their own bans by “claiming” the festive (and ironically named) “seasonal reward.” But the humor gives way to a deeper message: Valve is dead serious about cleaning up the notoriously toxic Dota 2 landscape.
This coal-powered initiative is just one piece of Valve’s “Frostivus 2023” update’s “naughty list” purge. In a blog post dripping with playful menace, Valve warned players that this year wouldn’t be filled with holiday cheer for those breaking the rules. “Bloodbath” was the term used, and judging by the gift-wrapped banhammer, they weren’t kidding.
Whether mason’s plea for leniency will find a sympathetic ear at Valve HQ remains to be seen. But one thing’s clear: this creative and unexpected approach to curbing smurfing and rule-breaking has sent a clear message to the Dota 2 community – beware the naughty list, for even a festive lump of coal can come with a hefty price tag: an indefinite vacation from the battlefield.
So, will this coal-based banning tactic prove effective? Time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: it’s definitely injected a dose of dark humor and intrigue into the ongoing battle against Dota 2’s toxicity.
Unwrap the Magic of Frostivus! (New Features, Frosty Fun Awaits)
This Frostivus, Valve isn’t just delivering festive cheer, they’re serving up a generous helping of fair play! Their latest update kicks off with a message clear as a wintery night: smurfing, toxicity, and behavior score manipulation are no longer tolerated. Here’s a frosty breakdown of the good tidings:
Smurf Slayers on Patrol: Since September’s 90,000 smurf account banhammer swung, Valve hasn’t been napping. Tens of thousands more have faced the icy chill of permanent bans in recent weeks, sending a message that the “everyone plays by the rules” policy applies even to pros.
Beyond Smurfs: Naughty List Expansion: Valve’s naughty list grows! In-game jerks causing grief and manipulating their behavior score through “farmers” are now also targets for penalties and, in extreme cases, even main account bans.
Frostivus Festivities for Fair Players: This update is a celebration for those who embrace true sportsmanship. Valve is committed to making matches as enjoyable as possible, ensuring the new year dawns with a brighter, friendlier Dota 2 landscape.
A Coal-Flavored Warning: While everyone else enjoys the Frostivus festivities, Valve reminds us those who haven’t played nice will find a lump of bitter consequence in their inventory. No need to panic, though! Genuine remorse and a commitment to playing honorably can always melt the frost and pave the way for redemption.
So, grab your friends, embrace the spirit of the season, and dive into the Frostivus update with renewed enthusiasm. Remember, the real magic lies in fair competition, camaraderie, and the thrill of a hard-fought victory. Happy Frostivus, heroes! May your matches be filled with frosty fun and the warmth of fair play!
This rewrite avoids negativity and focuses on the positive message of fair play and community. It maintains Valve’s humor, but replaces the “choke on coal” imagery with a more subtle warning.
Several years ago, when Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver initially allowed any Pokemon to accompany the player anywhere, fans were ecstatic at the prospect of witnessing their cherished companions strolling around the game world. However, in the recently released Pokemon Scarlet and Violet DLC: The Indigo Disk, the Pokemon experience has taken an innovative turn. Beyond having your Pokemon follow you, the new feature enables you to step into the shoes of a Pokemon.
In The Indigo Disk, quite early in the game, you’ll encounter a character named Synclaire within the Terarium. Upon completing a quest for her, Synclaire will introduce you to the use of a Synchro Machine. This device grants you the ability to essentially “become” your Pokemon, allowing you to traverse the map while controlling them and utilizing them for autobattling. In practical terms, it may seem like a somewhat redundant feature, with its primary advantage being the ability to manage your Pokemon during autobattles without the need for repeated summoning when they go out of range.
While the utility might be limited, for Pokemon enthusiasts, the concept of Syncing adds a whimsical and amusing element to the gameplay. Much of the charm stems from the inherently lovable and playful nature of the Pokemon characters themselves. As an example, players can embody Tinkaton and whimsically interact with everything using a colossal hammer.
For those just delving into the Indigo Disk DLC, I highly recommend heading to the central plaza area of the Terararium and engaging with Synclaire to unlock this feature. The beauty of it is that you can even employ it in multiplayer, assembling a Pokemon party with your friends. It’s an entirely absurd, seemingly unnecessary, yet thoroughly delightful new addition that I wholeheartedly embrace.
As for Pokemon Scarlet and Violet themselves, they might not be as charming, as highlighted in both our review of the base games and our evaluation of the Teal Mask DLC – a prerequisite for accessing the Indigo Disk. Our comprehensive review of the Indigo Disk is currently in the works and will be published before the holiday season. In the meantime, we are diligently creating wiki guides to aid those who are already making swift progress through the new expansion content.
Engaging in online games and video games is an enjoyable experience, providing a means to connect and interact with others. Whether on gaming consoles, computers, or mobile devices, many individuals find pleasure in playing games. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential dangers associated with online gaming, such as viruses, identity theft, and phishing attacks. Keep reading to discover the primary risks of online gaming and learn effective measures to safeguard yourself.
Engaging in online gaming poses various risks and potential hazards.
The primary dangers associated with online gaming involve:
Malware and viruses: Downloading cheaper or free versions of your preferred games may expose you to the inadvertent risk of downloading viruses and malware. This risk extends to accessing cheat codes or buying items through third-party sellers. Even legal game downloads carry a potential security gap, leaving you vulnerable. Once malware infiltrates your system, hackers can exploit it to pilfer your personal information.
Identity Theft: Collecting personally identifiable information is a common practice among cybercriminals as they construct profiles of their potential victims. Engaging in online gaming with strangers introduces a potential risk through the chat function, enabling communication with other players. Criminals may exploit the chat function to obtain sensitive details like your name, phone number, and home address. Therefore, exercising caution about the information you share during gaming is crucial.
Account takeover: Employing identical usernames and passwords across all your preferred gaming platforms, although not advisable, poses a security risk. In the event that hackers acquire your credentials, they gain access to all your accounts, potentially assuming control. Hackers may resort to brute force attacks, employing automated scripts to attempt unauthorized entry into your account using credentials pilfered from other sources.
Swatting and doxing: If hackers obtain your personal information, they may engage in doxing, the act of publishing your home address or phone number online. Doxing serves various purposes, including punishing, intimidating, or humiliating the target. Motivations behind doxing actions range from seeking online amusement and disregarding the harm inflicted to mistakenly seeking justice, revenge, jealousy, harassment, and even profit. Doxing is an event that can unexpectedly occur, causing significant disruptions to a person’s life. Furthermore, there have been instances in the gaming realm where doxing led to swatting—criminals misleading law enforcement to your address by fabricating a fake emergency to intimidate you.
Spyware: Players may become targets of spyware schemes, particularly when engaging with untrustworthy online gaming platforms. Spyware operates by clandestinely monitoring a person’s online activities without their awareness. The recorded information can then be sold to third parties, leading to a breach of privacy.
Data breaches: Hackers have the capability to directly target game publishers. If they successfully infiltrate a publisher’s systems, they can pilfer a vast amount of information, ranging from the source code and the games themselves to the personal details stored in users’ accounts. An illustrative case is the Zynga data breach, where hackers stole login information (usernames, passwords, and email addresses) for players of Draw Something and Words With Friends. This breach impacted over 172 million accounts, ranking it among the most substantial data breaches in history.
Cross-site scripting: Outdated gaming platforms may employ insecure methods for handling login credentials, exposing them to a security vulnerability known as cross-site scripting (XSS). This susceptibility allows malicious actors to intercept and pilfer these details, posing a significant risk to user security.
DDoS attacks: Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks happen when hackers try to overwhelm gaming servers, resulting in a system crash that disrupts the service. Although it doesn’t entail the theft of user data, it remains a significant inconvenience to users. The downtime and recovery period can also incur substantial costs for the game’s service provider.
Phishing emails: Phishing emails or deceptive links shared through in-game chat during online gaming serve as a method for hackers to trick individuals into installing malicious software on their devices. These emails or chat messages often mimic legitimate sources, enticing users to download supposed bonus content or access a login page. In reality, these communications are fraudulent and harbor malicious intentions.
Cyberbullying: In certain instances, gamers may face mistreatment from other players, leading to attempts to humiliate victims. Cyberbullies may go a step further by attempting to manipulate their targets into revealing personal information that can be exploited against them.
Safeguarding against the perils of online gaming requires adopting precautionary measures
Protecting yourself from the risks of online gaming requires implementing sensible precautions and practicing cyber hygiene. Here are some essential measures to follow:
Use Strong Passwords: Utilize robust passwords with a minimum of 12 characters, including a mix of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessable information such as sequential numbers or personal details.
Set Up Multi-Factor Authentication: Enable two- or multi-factor authentication for an additional layer of security. This often involves receiving a code on your phone or email during the login process.
Protect Personal Information: Refrain from including identifiable information in gaming usernames and exercise caution when sharing personal details on gaming forums or through headsets.
Download Only from Legitimate Sources: Steer clear of downloads from unofficial or pirated sources to prevent introducing viruses or malware. Stick to reputable download sites for enhanced game security.
Be Alert to Hidden Charges and Scams: Familiarize yourself with terms and conditions to understand potential charges. Exercise caution when engaging in transactions related to in-game ‘property’ and be vigilant against scams.
Keep Software Up to Date: Ensure that your devices and software are regularly updated to benefit from the latest security patches addressing vulnerabilities.
Beware of Phishing Emails: Exercise caution with emails urging immediate action, avoiding clicking on links, opening attachments, or responding to suspicious emails.
Dispose of Gaming Devices Safely: When disposing of a gaming device, delete personal information and account details to protect your privacy.
Use a VPN When Playing Games: Employ a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to conceal your location and enhance protection against attacks like DDoS. VPNs also provide added security for data transactions.
Install and configure a reputable VPN.
Understand the terms of service, including privacy policies.
Note that VPNs complement but do not replace standalone antivirus software.
By incorporating these practices, you can maximize safety while enjoying the benefits of online gaming.
