Entertainment Updates : New Horror Game Uses Your Webcam

Source : 

https://gamerant.com/new-horror-game-uses-webcam-eyes-never-wake/

Apple Intelligence :

• Gameplay Mechanic: Uses player’s webcam to require physical hiding from an in-game monster.

• Privacy Concerns: Addressed by not uploading data and allowing players to opt out of webcam use.

• Cheating Prevention: Blocking the camera results in player movement restrictions.

• Game Mechanics: Utilizes a webcam to track the player’s face, with a monster that can see and attack them if spotted.

• Privacy Concerns: Addressed by the developer, ensuring no data upload, options for VTubers, and the ability to play without a webcam.

• Gameplay Challenges: Players cannot simply block the camera to avoid the monster, as it will prevent movement.

Gaming Updates : Dragon Ball Advanced Adventure GBA

Source : 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Ball:_Advanced_Adventure

Grok 3 :

"Dragon Ball: Advanced Adventure" for the Game Boy Advance (GBA), released in 2004 in Japan and 2006 in North America, received generally positive feedback from critics and players alike. It holds a reputation as one of the standout Dragon Ball games, particularly for its faithful adaptation of the original series and its engaging gameplay. Here's a breakdown of its ratings and what reviewers had to say based on available information:

Ratings

- Metacritic: The game has a Metacritic score of 75 out of 100, based on 13 critic reviews, which falls under the "Generally Favorable" category. This aggregate score reflects a solid reception, though not overwhelmingly exceptional.

- Famitsu: In Japan, the renowned gaming magazine Famitsu gave it a score of 29 out of 40 (based on four reviewers scoring it 7, 7, 7, and 8). This is a respectable rating from a publication known for its stringent standards, indicating a good but not top-tier game.

Reviewer Opinions

Reviewers praised "Dragon Ball: Advanced Adventure" for its blend of action, variety, and loyalty to the source material, though some noted minor flaws. Here’s what they highlighted:

Positives

1. Gameplay Variety and Fun:

2. The game combines side-scrolling beat 'em up action, platforming, flying sequences (on the Flying Nimbus), and one-on-one fighting segments. Critics appreciated this diversity, noting it kept the experience fresh. GameSpot called it "a fun, diverse action game that does the license proud," emphasizing how it evolves beyond initial generic impressions into a "slickly produced, hectic action game."

3. IGN described it as "an awesome all-around package for 2D traditionalists," praising the mix of classic combat and the rewarding progression as new mechanics (like the Nimbus) are introduced.

4. Faithfulness to Dragon Ball:

5. Covering Goku’s childhood adventures from meeting Bulma to battling King Piccolo, the game captures the spirit of the original series rather than the more popular Dragon Ball Z. Reviewers like those at GameSpot noted that it "ambitiously distills the entire 153-episode run" into 15 levels, appealing strongly to fans of the classic saga.

6. The inclusion of numerous characters (30 playable in total across modes) and familiar music and voice clips were lauded for enhancing nostalgia.

7. Visuals and Presentation:

8. For a GBA title, the game’s graphics were well-received. GameSpot highlighted the "intricately detailed and animated" sprites and "scrolling background layers" that add depth, while IGN praised the "awesome character design and animation."

9. The audio, including character voice clips, was seen as above average for the platform.

10. Replay Value:

11. Unlockable content, such as playing as Krillin in Story Mode or accessing a roster of characters in Extra and One-on-One modes, added significant replayability. IGN noted the "serious replay value" from options like multiplayer battles via link cable and adjustable difficulty.

Criticisms

1. Slow Start:

2. Several reviews pointed out a weak opening. GameSpot remarked that the first level—a "plain jungle path filled with generic monsters"—feels overly long and limited by basic moves, potentially turning off players early on. It improves significantly in later stages, though.

3. Story Compression:

4. While the game covers the major beats of Goku’s early adventures, some felt the story was too condensed. Amazon customer reviews (reflecting player sentiment) mentioned inaccuracies or skipped parts, reducing its appeal for those seeking a precise retelling.

5. Length and Depth:

6. The game’s brevity was a minor critique. With a story mode beatable in about 3-5 hours, some players and reviewers (e.g., Amazon reviews) felt it lacked the depth or longevity of other titles, though extras mitigated this somewhat.

7. Not Groundbreaking:

8. IGN compared it to "Astro Boy" (another GBA title by Treasure), suggesting it doesn’t reach the same heights of impact or innovation, positioning it as very good but not revolutionary.

Overall Reception

"Dragon Ball: Advanced Adventure" earned a strong reputation as one of the best Dragon Ball games on the GBA, if not the franchise overall, especially for fans of the original series. Its Metacritic score of 75 aligns with a game that’s well-crafted and enjoyable but not flawless. Reviewers consistently recommended it to Dragon Ball fans and action game enthusiasts, with praise centered on its tight controls, variety, and nostalgic appeal, tempered by critiques of its pacing and scope. Its status as an underrated gem persists, partly due to its focus on the less-celebrated original series and its GBA exclusivity, which limited its mainstream exposure compared to later Dragon Ball Z titles.

If you’re a fan of retro gaming or Dragon Ball’s early days, the consensus suggests it’s a must-play, even if it doesn’t redefine the genre.

Technology Updates : People are using Super Mario to benchmark AI now

Source:

https://techcrunch.com/2025/03/03/people-are-using-super-mario-to-benchmark-ai-now/

Apple Intelligence:

• Game Performance: Anthropic’s Claude 3.7 performed the best, followed by Claude 3.5. Google’s Gemini 1.5 Pro and OpenAI’s GPT-4o struggled.

• Game Mechanism: The game ran in an emulator and integrated with a framework, GamingAgent, to give the AIs control over Mario.

• Reasoning Model Performance: Reasoning models performed worse than “non-reasoning” models, despite being generally stronger on most benchmarks.

• AI Benchmarking Limitations: Games, while useful for benchmarking AI, have limitations as they are abstract, simple, and offer infinite data, unlike the real world.

• Evaluation Crisis in AI: Recent gaming benchmarks highlight a lack of clear metrics to assess the true capabilities of AI models.

• Uncertainty in AI Model Performance: There is a lack of clarity regarding the actual performance and capabilities of current AI models.

Gaming Updates : New local indie horror game Scarred promises Singapore-styled scares along HDB corridors

Source:

https://www.hardwarezone.com.sg/tech-news-new-local-indie-horror-game-scarred-promises-singapore-styled-scares-along-hdb-corridors

Apple Intelligence:

• Game Genre and Setting: Puzzle horror game set in a twisted version of Singapore, featuring familiar landscapes and architecture.

• Gameplay Mechanics: Players solve a mystery involving a missing classmate, piece together fragmented memories, and experience intertwined timelines.

• Release Date and Platform: April 17th for PC, with a demo available on Steam.

Investing Updates : Revolution On Telegram: Toncoin Becomes The Only Authorized Crypto!

URL: https://www.cointribune.com/en/revolution-on-telegram-toncoin-becomes-the-only-authorized-crypto/

Gemini:

Telegram has decided to make Toncoin the only authorized cryptocurrency for its platform. This means that users will need Toncoin to pay for premium subscriptions, services, advertisements, and even payments for mini-app developers. Telegram is also looking to tokenize digital assets within its ecosystem, such as emojis, stickers, and digital gifts. This move is seen as a way to strengthen TON's presence in the global market and make Toncoin a key player in digital payments.

Some people are disappointed with Telegram's decision to centralize its platform, but others see it as a springboard for the future of Toncoin. Only time will tell how this decision will ultimately impact Telegram and Toncoin.

Opinion:

I've changed some TON previously and is staking on TONkeeper. The news could be bullish for TON. Tbh, I prefer it to be centralised too 🤔. Too many blockchains create a messy micro-managing experience.

Gaming Updates: Nintendo Switch 2 Reveal: Here’s Everything Announced and Confirmed

URL: https://za.ign.com/nintendo-switch-2

Apple Intelligence:

Nintendo has officially revealed the Switch 2, confirming a 2025 release date and several new features. The console is larger, with a magnetic Joy-Con attachment system and a new button on the right Joy-Con.  A Nintendo Switch 2 Direct is set for April, where more details about the console and launch games will be revealed.

Opinion:

It's a safe play by Nintendo. The additional USB C is a plus point, especially if it's able to support external screens. Will consider it if the price is right.

Investing Updates : X Empire Airdrop

My Thoughts:

Disappointed 😆

I did do the games one or twice per day for like 3 months I think.

Didn't donate any TON to the game though.

Entertainment Updates : Games from the Past

URL: https://www.straitstimes.com/life/maplestory-neopets-and-warcraft-can-the-games-you-grew-up-with-recapture-the-magic

OpenAI:

Here are the 5 key points from the article on The Straits Times about "MapleStory, Neopets, and Warcraft" recapturing the magic:

• Nostalgia Factor: The article discusses how iconic games from the 2000s, like MapleStory, Neopets, and Warcraft, evoke strong nostalgic feelings for those who grew up with them.

• Continued Popularity: Despite their age, these games are still popular and have managed to retain a dedicated player base.

• Memories and Friendships: Many players share fond memories of making friends and spending significant time in these virtual worlds.

• Evolution of Games: The article explores how these games have evolved over the years to keep up with modern gaming trends and technology.

• Challenges of Recapturing Magic: It questions whether these games can truly recapture the magic of the past and what it would take to do so.

My Thoughts:

I missed WoW. It helped me through tough times.

Will get back when I've more free time.

Hopefully it will still exist by then 😂

Entertainment Updates : Telegram Tap-To-Earn Games Future

URL: https://decrypt.co/283419/telegram-tap-to-earn-gaming-avoid-play-fate

OpenAI

The article from Decrypt discusses the rise of tap-to-earn games on Telegram and their potential to avoid the pitfalls of earlier play-to-earn models. These games, like Notcoin and Hamster Kombat, have gained massive popularity by allowing users to earn in-game points or coins by simply tapping on the screen. The simplicity and accessibility of these games have attracted millions of users worldwide.

However, the article also highlights concerns about the sustainability of these models. The key challenge is whether these games can maintain user interest and economic viability without falling into the same traps as previous play-to-earn games, which often struggled with inflationary tokenomics and declining user engagement.

My Thoughts

• Early days for many tap-to-earn games.
• I think it will do well. Should continue to exist in some form.
• Although only a few will probably make it and form a monopoly for a while.

Investing Updates : Catizen Crypto Airdrop

https://decrypt.co/248758/who-is-eligible-catizen-telegram-game-airdrop-ton

OpenAI

The article on Decrypt explains that the "Catizen" game, integrated into the Telegram app, is conducting an airdrop on The Open Network (TON). The airdrop is exclusive to players who participate in the game's activities and hold TON tokens. Eligible users need to complete in-game tasks and achieve specific milestones. This initiative promotes the Catizen game and the TON ecosystem, using Telegram as a gaming platform.

The Catizen Telegram game, which operates on the TON blockchain, has gained significant traction for its play-to-airdrop model. Players can engage with virtual cats in a fun and accessible game while earning token rewards without the need for upfront investment. It’s part of a growing ecosystem that merges GameFi, the metaverse, and AI technologies, offering players opportunities to earn future airdrops like the $CATI token by simply playing the game.

Feedback on the airdrop has been generally positive, particularly because it doesn't require initial financial investment—just time and participation. Many users appreciate the game's simplicity and the chance to earn airdrops, especially given that TON's ecosystem is seeing increased attention in the crypto space. However, it’s important to note that while the airdrop is promising, the value of the rewards and long-term potential of $CATI tokens remains uncertain. Some players are investing heavily to get more rewards, but others recommend a cautious approach, especially when spending real TON tokens for faster progression. 

Overall, the airdrop looks good if you're looking for a low-risk way to engage with blockchain gaming, but as with all crypto projects, it’s essential to manage expectations.

My Thoughts

• Have been playing a few telegram crypto games as noted in my referral page, mostly during commutes to work and late night stress relief after children sleep.

• Even with my rather casual interactions with Catizen, I seem to have qualified for the airdrop. Is it really easy money?

• Will make a post on the earnings if awarded on any of the crypto telegram games.

Technology Updates : AI in Games

AI Summarisation

AI has significantly influenced the development and success of best-selling games in recent years. Here are some notable examples of how AI has been utilized in popular games:

### 1. **Adaptive AI in Single-Player Games**

- **The Last of Us Part II (2020)**: The AI in this game is particularly notable for its ability to adapt to player actions. Enemies communicate with each other, strategize, and even react emotionally to the death of their comrades.

- **Ghost of Tsushima (2020)**: The game uses AI to create realistic enemy behaviors and dynamic weather patterns, enhancing the immersive experience.

### 2. **Procedural Content Generation**

- **No Man's Sky (2016, with significant updates through 2023)**: AI is used to generate an almost infinite number of planets, each with unique ecosystems, landscapes, and life forms.

- **Minecraft (2011, but continuously updated)**: Uses procedural generation to create its expansive worlds, making each player's experience unique.

### 3. **AI-Driven NPCs**

- **Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018)**: The game features complex AI for NPCs, who follow daily routines and react dynamically to the player's actions.

- **Cyberpunk 2077 (2020)**: Despite its rocky launch, the game features AI-driven NPCs that populate the vibrant world of Night City, each with their own behaviors and routines.

### 4. **AI in Multiplayer Games**

- **Fortnite (2017)**: Uses AI for match balancing and to manage in-game events. The AI also helps in creating intelligent bots that can fill in for human players.

- **Apex Legends (2019)**: Features AI-driven elements such as the 'Ring' that dynamically changes the play area, and intelligent loot distribution to balance gameplay.

### 5. **AI for Game Development and Testing**

- **Ubisoft's Commit Assistant**: A tool that uses AI to predict and prevent bugs in game code, which has been used in the development of games like Assassin's Creed.

- **AI in Playtesting**: Companies like EA use AI to simulate thousands of hours of gameplay to identify potential issues and balance gameplay elements.

### 6. **AI in Real-Time Strategy and MOBAs**

- **Dota 2 (2013)**: OpenAI's bots have been trained to play Dota 2 at a professional level, showcasing the potential for AI to compete with and even surpass human players in complex strategic games.

- **StarCraft II (2010)**: DeepMind's AlphaStar AI has demonstrated high-level play, challenging human professionals and pushing the boundaries of AI capabilities in RTS games.

### 7. **AI-Enhanced Graphics and Animation**

- **Control (2019)**: Uses AI for real-time ray tracing, creating stunning visual effects and realistic lighting.

- **Horizon Zero Dawn (2017)**: AI is used to animate the game's robotic creatures, making their movements and behaviors realistic and dynamic.

### Conclusion

AI continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing the complexity, realism, and overall experience of modern video games. From procedural content generation to sophisticated NPC behaviors and real-time strategy, AI's influence is evident in many of the best-selling and most acclaimed games of recent years.

My Thoughts

• Imo, AI can change the gaming world for the better as above have shown.
• Although it's true some jobs may be challenged and threatened to non-existence. 
• Finding a balance and good regulation will take some time.

https://geekculture.co/video-game-actors-continue-strike-over-unregulated-ai-use-in-hollywood/

Gaming Updates : Puzzle & Dragons Story iOS

AI Summarization

Puzzle & Dragons Story is a charming casual adventure game available on iOS and Apple Arcade. In this match-3 puzzler, you’ll recruit adorable allies to aid you in battle. While the title doesn’t offer an extensive story, the gameplay involves creating and leveling up cute creatures. Combat revolves around matching orbs strategically, considering elements and abilities. It strikes a balance between challenge and casual play, although grinding in later stages can be frustrating¹²³. Give it a try if you enjoy fantasy-themed match-three games! 🐉🧩

My Thoughts

• Been concentrating on this game recently. Still far from completion.
• It strikes all my chords given my current limited playtime : progression, grinding, collecting & simple gameplay.
• Going to renew my yearly Apple Arcade subscription soon. I like the wide variety of games on offer. More Importantly, my daughter likes Tamagotchi Adventure Kingdom 😄

https://www.pocketgamer.com/puzzle-dragons-story/review/

Entertainment Updates : Rise of Telegram Crypto Games

• First played Notcoin in the early days.
• Thought it was quite silly and repetitive.
• It's grown into a big attraction now 😂. May re-visit some of them.

https://decrypt.co/resources/what-is-notcoin-telegram-based-game-airdrop
https://decrypt.co/resources/what-is-hamster-kombat-telegram-game-token-airdrop
https://www.theblock.co/learn/300164/what-is-telegram-game-tapswap-and-how-do-you-play-it

Entertainment Updates : Delta & Retro Emulators on Apple App Store

• Game-breaking news for gamers.
• Especially for people like me, who's managing 3 kids, has little time and find it hard to justify paying for gaming services.
• There's also so many old games that I've missed out and need to catch up.

https://www.theverge.com/2024/4/17/24132984/delta-free-emulator-nintendo-gba-n64-iphone-app-store-us

LifeStyle Updates : Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Splintered Fate

Rating : 3.5 / 5

Good Action Game although it gets a little repetitive after a while.

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/tmnt-splintered-fate/id1625907876

LifeStyle Updates : Hello Kitty Island Adventure

Apple Arcade's Game of The Year 2023

Nice cute game. Nice progression pace

Overall mechanics simple and deep enough to delivery good gameplay experience

https://www.ign.com/games/hello-kitty-island-adventure

LifeStyle Updates : Sonic Dream Team

• Good short Sonic platformer
• Some stages are quite difficult.
• Story and music are forgettable.

https://www.grouvee.com/user/102790-WinsonFong/shelves/

LifeStyle Updates : Games & Movies Piracy. Balance between Free and Ethics.

• This is not an endorsement on using pirated services. But it is inevitable that an average family with average income will consider using such services. Because if you save more, your monthly invest income goes up.
• VPN service is important when using such services. Healthy security habits e.g. OS updates, cache clearing, etc also play a part.
• In life, there's a need to strike a balance in all things. Support the individuals or corporations' inventions whenever you can.

https://nordvpn.com/

https://vimm.net/

https://privacysavvy.com/geoblocking/streaming/free-streaming-sites-for-movies-tv-shows/