Video Game News Stories for March 17th, 2024
Unionization Efforts Gain Momentum: The ongoing movement towards unionization within the gaming industry continued with news of another 600 Activision QA testers joining the cause. This development comes amidst the ongoing battle between Activision Blizzard and the Communications Workers of America (CWA) over union recognition. The additional workers joining the cause solidify the movement within Activision and could have significant implications for working conditions across the industry.
Epic Games Scores Victory in Europe: In a significant development, Apple reversed its ban on Epic Games' developer account following an enquiry by the European Commission. This reversal stems from the ongoing legal battle between the two companies concerning in-app purchases and Epic's use of its own payment system within Fortnite. While the ruling only applies within the European Union, it represents a potential turning point in the ongoing fight for fairer App Store practices.
SAG-AFTRA Considers Strike Over AI Terms in Contracts: The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is reportedly considering a strike over proposed contract language concerning the use of artificial intelligence in video game performances. The union is concerned about the potential for AI to replace voice actors and the lack of clear regulations regarding ownership and compensation for AI-generated performances. This development highlights the growing challenges posed by AI in the entertainment industry and the need for fair treatment of all performers.
Minors Prioritize Safety in Online Gaming Spaces: A new report revealed that minors and young adults prioritize safety in online gaming spaces. The study highlights concerns about harassment, bullying, and predatory behavior within online games. The findings call for developers and platforms to prioritize safety features and implement stricter moderation policies to create a more welcoming environment for younger players.
Industry Gears Up for World Video Game Hall of Fame Finalists Announced: The finalists for the 2024 World Video Game Hall of Fame were officially announced. The prestigious list includes iconic titles like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and Pong. This year's inductees will be revealed later this year, sparking nostalgia and debate among gamers worldwide.
Twitch Viewership Dips: While the news wasn't all sunshine and rainbows, reports also emerged regarding a slight dip in viewership on Twitch in February 2024. While the exact reasons are still being investigated, this could indicate a shift in viewing habits or increased competition in the streaming landscape.
New Video Game Releases for March 17th, - March 22nd
Thursday, March 21st
- Horizon Forbidden West: Complete Collection (PC): The critically acclaimed PlayStation 5 exclusive Horizon Forbidden West arrives on PC with this release. This Complete Collection includes the base game and all story-based DLC.
- Final Fantasy 14 (Xbox Series X/S): Fans of the MMORPG rejoice! Final Fantasy 14 is finally playable on Xbox Series X/S.
- Midnight Ghost Hunt (PC): This asymmetrical hide-and-seek horror game tasks players with either being a Ghost haunting a mansion or a Hunter trying to banish them.
- Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile (iOS, Android): The popular free-to-play battle royale game Call of Duty: Warzone comes to mobile devices.
Friday, March 22nd
- Dragon's Dogma 2 (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S): The long-awaited sequel to the 2012 action RPG Dragon's Dogma is here! Expect an all-new story, new enemies, and a revamped pawn system.
- Princess Peach: Showtime! (Switch): In this new musical adventure game, Princess Peach uses her singing voice to defeat enemies and save the day.
- Rise of the Ronin (PS5): Team Ninja, the developers of Nioh, bring you Rise of the Ronin, a new open-world action RPG set in Japan during the Boshin War. Play as a former samurai forging your own path in a changing world.
- The Legend of Legacy HD Remastered (PC, Switch, PS4, PS5): This remastered version of the RPG The Legend of Legacy includes a new guidebook function and high-definition visuals.