Keep up with the top gaming news from March 4-8, 2024. PIF Picks presents the newest game launches and key events shaping the gaming scene. This update focuses on significant developments and trends within the gaming industry.
Apple’s Terminates Epic Games’ iOS Developer Account
Epic Games announced that Apple has terminated its newly approved Epic Games Sweden AB developer account. This move is a setback for Epic’s plans to introduce the Epic Games Store to iOS devices in Europe. Epic Games accuses Apple of violating the DMA. This mandates that Apple must allow third-party app stores on its platform, showcasing Apple’s resistance to competition on iOS devices.
The DMA, specifically Article 6(4), was designed to foster a competitive environment by allowing and facilitating the use of third-party software applications and stores on operating systems like iOS. However, Apple’s decision to terminate Epic’s developer account removes a significant competitor. This also sends a clear message to other developers about the risks of challenging Apple or criticizing its practices.
Epic Games highlighted that one reason behind the account termination was its public criticism of Apple’s approach to DMA compliance. This action by Apple is seen as a retaliatory move against Epic for speaking out against what Epic describes as unfair and illegal practices by Apple. Moreover, Epic refutes Apple’s claim that it threatens the iOS ecosystem, emphasizing its longstanding relationship with Apple.
Sony Files Patent for “Super-Fungible” Gaming Tokens
Sony has entered the fray of blockchain gaming with a new patent application. The tech giant is exploring the use of “super-fungible tokens.” This novel concept is designed to give players true ownership over their digital assets through blockchain technology.
Sony’s patent details a method for bundling various in-game assets into a single token, recorded on a blockchain. While the specifics of whether Sony will use a public or private blockchain remain unclear, the implications of such a venture by a major player in the gaming industry are significant.
The application, submitted in 2022, suggests Sony is considering integrating Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) into its gaming ecosystem. This would enable players to own, trade, and potentially transfer in-game assets across different games and platforms. However, Sony notes current gaming consoles may not yet be fully equipped to support a robust NFT ecosystem.
EA CEO Envisions AI as the Next Billion-Dollar Frontier in Gaming
Andrew Wilson, the CEO of Electronic Arts (EA), recently discussed the transformative power of generative AI in the gaming industry. This is during the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media & Telecom Conference. Wilson’s insights suggest that gaming experiences are poised to become more immersive and personalized in the next five years thanks to AI technology.
Wilson emphasized the efficiency and speed at which content can be developed, attributing these improvements to generative AI. He sees AI in game creation as an opportunity to swiftly achieve their creative visions. Wilson noted that tasks such as constructing an in-game sports stadium could be accelerated from months to just days. This change could revolutionize the development cycle.
Furthermore, the impact of generative AI is already visible in EA’s upcoming releases. For example, EA Sports FC 24 will feature unprecedented player movement options, with 1,200 run cycles. This leap in variability is a testament to the capabilities of generative AI in enriching gaming experiences.
Yuzu Shutdown by Nintendo Lawsuit, But Replacement Emulators Spring Up Overnight
Just hours after the closure of the prominent Nintendo Switch emulator Yuzu due to a legal battle with Nintendo, a wave of new emulators has swiftly filled the void online. Yuzu’s shutdown came after Nintendo pursued legal action against Tropic Haze, the development company behind the emulator, leading to a hefty $2.4 million settlement in favor of the gaming giant. Nintendo’s lawsuit centered on accusations that Yuzu enabled users to play Nintendo Switch games illegally, bypassing the need to purchase Nintendo’s hardware or software.
Despite Yuzu’s intentions to discourage piracy, their efforts seemed insufficient to Nintendo, which argued that the emulator inherently facilitated copyright infringement by decrypting game data. Tropic Haze expressed disappointment in their official statement, noting that the misuse of their software for pirating games, especially before their release, was against their principles. They hoped the shutdown would mark a step towards curbing piracy across the board.
Nevertheless, the gap left by Yuzu’s exit was quickly filled, with new emulation options popping up on social media and other online platforms within hours. These emerging software solutions are stepping in to replace Yuzu despite the clear message from Nintendo’s legal actions and Tropic Haze’s resulting settlement.
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That’s all the most exciting gaming news from March 4-8, 2024! Missed the gaming news last December? Click here for the gaming updates from February 26 – March 1, 2024, 2023.
