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Journey: is the second player a real person.

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The PlayStation 4's Play At Home initiative is meant to encourage people to stay at home with free games, including developer thatgamecompany's beautiful Journey . The unique, emotional game earned praise for its art-worthy visuals and award-nominated soundtrack, but one of its most notable features is its seamless, wordless multiplayer. Without text or voice chat, though, it can be hard to tell if Journey' s other player companions are real people or A.I. fakes.

Along with Journey , the Play At Home program includes Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection in an effort to keep players busy and entertained while practicing COVID-19 social distancing. Both games are free to download and keep for all PS4 owners - regardless of their PlayStation Plus subscription status - if secured before May 5. The Uncharted games are single-player, which has its own appeal during social distancing and self-quarantines, but part of what makes video games appealing in the current pandemic is their ability to connect people separated by physical space.

Related: WHO Recommends Playing Video Games To Stay Safe Against Coronavirus

Journey' s multiplayer does just that, but it does so in a way few other games have. Multiplayer is seamlessly integrated, with players simply happening upon each other in the game world, and players have only simple chirps to signal to one other. Journey has no chat system of any kind, and it doesn't even have an emote system to allow for more complicated silent communication, leaving some players wondering if they're actually playing alongside real human beings.

Is Journey's Other Player A Real Person Or An A.I. Companion?

PlayStation's online ecosystem is part of what makes Journey' s multiplayer functionality so vague. Normally, multiplayer gameplay requires a PlayStation Plus subscription , but Journey players run into other player characters even if they're not paying PS Plus members. While this may appear to indicate these other characters are just A.I. facsimiles, it seems Journey' s co-op just doesn't require a PS Plus subscription. According to the game's store page, its online features "require an account," but there's no mention of PS Plus, so this seems to refer simply to a basic PlayStation Network account. Descriptions for games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare , on the other hand, include phrases like "requires PlayStation®Plus membership to access online multiplayer," while Journey does not.

Of course, it's entirely possible that A.I. companions could be substituting for real ones when players' online connections drop, as some Journey -playing forum users have conspiracy-theorized. But there's an easy way to prove this false: At the end of a Journey playthrough, the game tells players the usernames of the others they met along the way. These are real accounts that users can message and send friend requests to, and it's highly unlikely thatgamecompany created fake accounts just to sell an illusion. In fact, it seems that if players lose connection or otherwise don't have internet access while playing, they'll simply go through the game alone, further proving the legitimacy of this must-play PS4 game's multiplayer .

Next: Why You Should SKIP The First Uncharted Game

Journey first released for PlayStation 3 on March 13, 2012, and has since been ported to PlayStation 4, PC, and iOS.

• SR Originals

• Entertainment

10 years later, there’s still nothing like Journey’s multiplayer

Journey turns 10 today.

By Jay Peters , a news editor who writes about technology, video games, and virtual worlds. He’s submitted several accepted emoji proposals to the Unicode Consortium.

Share this story

I’ll never forget the first time I played Journey .

Throughout the game, real-life players can join you on your quest toward a mountain on the horizon. Players can fade in and out of your adventure — maybe they want to go faster than you, maybe they just quit — but in the latter half of my game, I had found somebody who stuck with me. Journey has no voice or text chat and no names identifying other players you meet. The only way we could communicate was through our movements, sticking close together to refill each other’s energy, and singsong chirps. Despite those limitations, we built a rapport.

Near the end of Journey , you have to scale the mountain, and as you approach the peak, you get caught in a storm. Much of the game is filled with sunlight, flight, and joyful music, but the mountain is gray, winds buffet your character, and the music is, at times, uncomfortable. Even though the level was draining, I was happy that I had my companion, and we huddled together as we marched toward the peak.

Eventually, the music fades out, and you can only hear your footsteps trudging ever more slowly through the elements. Then, as the game grew silent, my friend collapsed into the snow. I actually cried out in dismay. Then my character fell over, too, and the screen faded to white. 

In many video games, you die a lot. That was the only time a virtual death has made me feel like I had actually lost a friend.

Fortunately, that’s not actually the end. In a cutscene, I was revived soon after I fell, and then, in an exuberant celebration of color and music that’s perhaps my favorite video game “level” of all time, soared toward the top of the mountain — with my once-fallen friend flying alongside me.

Journey turns 10 years old today, March 13th, and I still haven’t experienced anything like that moment. To mark the anniversary and learn more about the game’s bond-forging multiplayer, I spoke with Jenova Chen, president and creative director of Journey developer thatgamecompany. While it may feel like the game is effortlessly pairing you with companions as you go along, based on what he told me, it wasn’t quite that simple.

The goal for Journey was to “innovate how it feels between people on the internet,” Chen said. “Can we invent the right environment, the right feedback, to bring out something that we’re more proud of? And to have an online game where people feel friendly and compassionate towards each other?” He elaborated further later in our conversation. “We want to see two people going through the journey together, [like when] in our life, we meet someone special, and we travel with them, and eventually, we might depart from each other.” 

“Human beings, unfortunately, are giant babies”

While it was a profound ideal, “the reality is: human beings, unfortunately, are giant babies in the virtual world,” Chen said. “No matter how old you are, even if you’re in your 70s, if we move you from Earth and into a virtual space, [that person] would become a giant baby. A baby doesn’t know what is a good moral value versus what is a bad moral value. The baby only knows: if I’m in a new environment, I’m going to try to push the buttons and see what kind of feedback I can get, and babies are great at looking for maximum feedback.”

To encourage compassion, the team tested a lot of ideas. They tried a system inspired by Gears of War that let you help out an incapacitated friend but found that even in playtests among the developers, the player would rather not help the other person out. “That way, they create a lot of anxiety in the other player and make the other player more angry. And they actually get more gratification out of the feedback,” Chen said.

They also tested a mechanic where one person could push the other high up, and then that person would pull the first. “But once we gave this physics simulation to the players, they chose to push each other off the wall and see them fall from the cliff and die, waiting to be helped,” Chen said.

During those tests, people would say, “I would rather play this game alone. Why do you force me to play with this other person? I hate them,” according to Chen. That’s because “killing is much bigger feedback than just helping the other person to get on a ledge,” Chen said. 

“At the time, I was like, ‘Is humanity at its core just dark?’”

The challenges of making those mechanics work affected Chen. “At the time, I was like, ‘Is humanity at its core just dark?’” he said. But a child psychologist helped Chen see things in terms of the way babies view feedback. “If you don’t want babies to do something terrible, give them zero feedback,” he recalled learning from her. “Don’t give them negative feedback because they will misinterpret that as positive feedback.” 

That led to a change that would have a huge effect on the game: when you got close to someone, you’d recharge their energy. (In the final game, you use your energy to fly.) “And so that makes people feel like ‘Oh, I love to stay near someone because I don’t have to run to find the energy,’” he said. “So they end up sticking together, and they travel together, and they form a companionship. That was just one simple change. From assholes who want to kill each other and dancing around their corpse, creating hatred, to ‘hey, they’re all lovey-dovey, they’re helping each other, and they couldn’t leave each other.’”

The team also had to experiment to land on the musical chirps that players can use to communicate with each other. They tried a “thumbs up and thumbs down idea” where you could push the thumbstick up to show a green ping and push it down to show a red ping. But in testing, the majority of pings were red as players spammed them to bug their partner to do what they wanted, which created feelings of stress.

“Eventually, we realized it’s better just to keep it neutral,” Chen said. “And then we let the frequency and the amplitude [of the ping] be interpreted by the other player. But we noticed that when we don’t add context, people usually interpret the other person’s intention positively. I think that’s deep down our human nature.”

The chirp is like a musical instrument

Even though the chirp is intended to be neutral, it’s not a static noise. It’s almost like a musical instrument, and its sound evolves throughout the game, Journey composer Austin Wintory told me. “At the very beginning of the game, it’s very bird-like, and there’s flute and little bits of cello,” he said. But over the course of the game, you’ll hear more of a human voice within that sound. “So by the time you’re in the clouds and the very big finale, especially if you do one of the big charged up [pings], you can really hear there’s a human voice in there.” (The human voice used in the pings is Lisbeth Scott, who sings Journey’s end credits.)

The humanity in the design of Journey , from the human voice in the chirps to the multiplayer design that encourages cooperation, is so much of what makes the game memorable for me. As I climbed the mountain with my companion the first time I played the game, I realize now that while I may have been huddled close to my friend to try and share my energy, deep down, I just wanted to do everything I could to help them get up that mountain — and I knew they were doing the same for me.

Ahead of talking to Chen and Wintory, I replayed Journey for the first time since it came out. Despite how much I love the game, I’ve always worried another run would change how I feel about it. I was so fearful of how it might contort my memories that I was actively procrastinating on playing it. 

To my surprise, the experience was just as powerful. Ten years on, there are still people playing Journey , and I met four other companions who were part of my adventure. I even made a new friend who stuck by my side through the snowy climb to the mountain’s summit — and through the joyful flight to the peak.

Journey is available on PS3, PS4, PS5, PC, and iOS. Composer Austin Wintory has also just released a re-orchestration of the Journey soundtrack performed by the London Symphony Orchestra titled “Traveler — A Journey Symphony.” I’ve listened to it and thought it was very good.

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• Expert Mode

Guide to arranging a meetup

• 1 Before Attempting to Meetup
• 2 Common courtesy
• 3.1.1 Videos
• 3.1.2 Two players will connect if
• 3.1.3 Get your save-files
• 3.2 We do not connect  :(
• 4.1.1 "Raving's favorite" for Broken Bridge
• 4.2 Is that you?
• 4.3 Oh, its not you :(
• 5.1 PC version specifics
• 5.2 PS4 specifics
• 5.3 PS3 specifics
• 7 References

Before Attempting to Meetup [ ]

It is recommended to do at least one Journey before trying to meet a specific person.

This guide will explain methods to connect with someone specific in general and gives tips on how to avoid connecting to other players.

For general information about how to connect or reconnect to Companions see here: To connect or to disconnect!

Common courtesy [ ]

Please keep in mind, Journey is all about respect and empathy .

One common complaint is about the same Companion repeatedly dusting on sight, and it makes people sad. See Quotes below.

There will be times when you are looking for a random Companion . Imagine having "everyone" dust on you, just because you are the wrong person.

Imagine 10 people trying to meet 10 others specifically at the first level where you can connect.

All those players, plus random players that just happen to be there could get connected. If all those unwanted connections are aborted, it means that maybe around 50 people are abandoned, just in that time frame.

Most important hint, to avoid random players:

• Do not wait for your partner in a level.
• If entering the wrong level, pause the game and go to chapter select and then re-attempt by entering the correct level. (This method resets your scarf length to minimum length.)
• Quiting the game and restarting will show the "continue" option, which brings you to the start of the last saved level for re-entry. Levels are saved when you enter them from a previous level unless you've entered through a chapter select portal.
• Go offline , If you want to play a bit while waiting for your partner to be ready or simply stay in the first level.

Basics for meetings [ ]

Journey does not have a traditional "play with friend option".

The intention of the game is to connect to someone you do not know and to travel together. To get attached to that person, can be unique experience.

Although the game is designed for random encounters with an unknown friend, there are tricks to travel with a certain person . Pick a friend, someone from the in game meetings channel on the discord or a person you played before with.

The process follows some simple rules, but there is no 100 % way to avoid meeting another (unknown) person and depending on platform, it might take some attempts.

It is recommended to read the tips in this section, but if you just quickly want to meet a friend in the Broken Bridge level , see: Connecting in Broken Bridge

General Information [ ]

To meet a first run on any other platform, you must wear a Red Robe. It can be a nice experience to go back to when you started to Journey.

Things to consider:

• It is possible to connect in any level, but not in the first or last one (Chapter Select, Paradise).
• To avoid meeting other players , enter a level or go online at the very same second. Time it via a chat.
• If it takes you minutes to verify if you met, the other person might get attached and happy to meet you - just to see you dust later.
• Examples: several bigger and smaller chirps, standing at a certain place etc.

These are the only supported cross platform connections below:

• PlayStation Plus Premium players can connect to PlayStation 3 players, via cloud gaming [1]
• PlayStation 5 players connect to PS4 players

Note: Epic Games and Steam do not connect with each other.

This video covers the basics about disconnection triggers in each level:

Two players will connect if [ ]

• But not too far, such as at two different ends of the level.
• Standing at the exact same point as the Companion makes connecting harder, but not impossible
• Activating the normal Glyphs , picking up Symbols , calling the Flyers or activating the smaller Banners in Broken Bridge does not affect connection.

For platform specifics, see: Specifics for PS3, PS4, PC Versions

Further hints are also below at the "Connecting in Broken Bridge Section" .

Examples for triggers :

• Both players need to have the same bridge parts up or none activated.
• There are many triggers in the Underground level, the machines will be on different places for each player, thus, they will not connect.
• Even at the end of the level, it is extremely rare that a connection was reported.
• For more details about connection in each level see: To connect or to disconnect!, Specifics per level .

Get your save-files [ ]

Having save files ready when going on an arranged journey is very useful. It makes you able to start at any level, but with a long scarf. See: Hints for the Regularly Travelling Wayfarer - How to Backup and Restore a Certain Level with Certain Robe and Same Symbol

If you just use the Chapter Select buildings, you will have the "CS scarf"/short scarf.

Epic Games version seem to have problems with connecting people, this was recognised around summer 2021 (please contact the community on the discord, for tests and maybe solutions will be found).

We do not connect  :( [ ]

If despite several tries, no connection happens:

Quit the game, to avoid other players. Then check if:

• Both were able to meet randoms/other people in other Journeys?
• Both are connected to the internet / game-platform ; use a cable for stronger connection.
• Going on and offline to time the connection, can lead to the problem that one forgot to go online again.
• Sometimes you do not see a shine; Companion might be sitting behind a hill or is just far away.
• Change download region in Steam-options to the same of the Companion. [3]
• If both are using the same internet network (in the same household) it might not work. [4]
• PS4 specifics .

Normally, the connection is established within some seconds.

If you did not connect:

• Quit game (quit to title on PC versions does not disconnect you for some time from the wrong Companion that you might have met before)
• Start the game
• Both press continue, at the same time to reenter the level

If trying to connect in Bridge level : do not use the Chapter Select option, you need to watch the vision, to get to the second level.

Connecting in Broken Bridge [ ]

Most players naturally try to meet in Broken Bridge , to have a full Journey together. Just keep in mind, that everyone trying to meet a random player might get into your way.

Drawback on trying to connect in BB:

• Many people try to meet there or just start their Journey there.
• Depending on amount of players playing at that moment, the chances to connect to someone else are probably higher then in other levels.

Theoretically and in most cases you just need to do the following:

• Both players are ready and connected to the network.
• Both enter the Broken Bridge level at the exact same time, to avoid meeting others.
• As long as you stay at the ledge at the start of the level, connecting is not activated . A connection up there may happen, if you jumped around and hit the trigger ...
• Both go to a certain area in the level and walk a bit around.
• Either agree on activating certain Bridge Banners (both need to activate them) or do not activate any bridge Banners.
• You should connect. Use the sign you agreed on, to quickly recognise if its you.
• Connected to someone else? --> Oh, its not you
• It's not working. --> We do not connect :(

Step by step text [ ]

The list below can be used to copy and paste it to your trying-to-connect-with-companion. Send them the text to read beforehand.

"Raving's favorite" for Broken Bridge [ ]

We will try to go to the Broken Bridge level AT SAME TIME. Then chances are high that we connect.

• Start the game and do the quickstart-trick (use menu option "Chaper Select" right at the start of the Journey) to save time
• Go through the first level, pick the Symbols and watch the vision. Then wait at the stairs to the corridor to the next level.
• Do not already go to BB :) Wait for me to be ready too.
• Both say ready and then one says go.
• Both walk through the corridor to BB (or press continue, if the game was quit, when you were in BB).
• Do not activate the big bridge-building-banners or tell me if you did. Having those different means we will not connect.
• After entering the level, we should promptly head left to the first symbol there, you can pick it. Then walk a bit around and hope for connection.
• How will we recognise each other? How about ______ (enter your sign, like 2 small chirps, 1 big here. "I will chirp heavily will not work, many people just do that ;)) .

Is that you? [ ]

Agree on a certain, rather quick sign or place to stand upon meeting to identify if you connected with your friend. (or a game screenshot)

If it's not your friend, it could be considered "polite" to rather quickly dust on them, to avoid giving them the feeling you are up for a game (see also Common courtesy ).

Oh, its not you :( [ ]

If you run into another player while trying to connect with your friend:

• Quit the game. Your partner should do the same, to not get connected with the person that you just left.
• You could quickly activate a bridge banner, then quit the game. When you re-enter, their game will be in another state, thus you do not connect to them again. Could be seen as rude... they may had a plan and you messed it up for them ;)
• Give the other player time to leave the level / them activating triggers, before you retry
• Try to connect in the next level, to avoid frustration on both sides
• Read the " hints for every level "

To see if you are running into the same person again, check their Symbol. If it is the same as last time, it is the same person (however, coincidences can happen so this method is not guaranteed).

Specifics for PS3, PS4 and PC versions [ ]

Pc version specifics [ ].

The connection is also depending on the platform. There can be a server issue, maintenance etc.

Epic Games: Epic Games version FAQ . Sadly arranging a meetup does not work anymore on Epic Games, or meeting Companions in general.

• Note that while Steam does not have a region block, it does have a number of systems by which it determines which players it will prefer to connect you to.
• Steam will always prefer to connect you to someone/a lobby that is closer to you, geographically. Even if the ping time is higher than an another lobby that it considers to be further away.
• This can make it especially difficult to connect with a Companion if they live very far away from you.

Solution for playing across the globe:

• Change the download-server in steam options to the same as your partner or something in the middle, video here .
• It is based on where your public IP is considered to be, meaning you can "cheat" the system by using a vpn to change where Steam thinks you are.
• Note: Chapter Selecting to refresh is not tested on PC yet, exiting to title screen will not refresh the "lobby". Needs to be re-evaluated since the new patch could have changed that too, also refreshing is not really needed anymore.
• At launch the Epic Games Store's version supported LAN play natively, but may no longer.
• In a case where Steam version no longer supports LAN, a Steam emulator that supports tricking games into believing LAN networks are normal online connections can be used.

PS4 specifics [ ]

The best method found when trying to connect to someone is to turn off/on the network :

• The description at the YouTube video covers additional information.
• Turn off the network
• Wait 30 seconds, quickly turn it back on
• Wait another 30 seconds
• If no connection: turn off, and repeat until a connection. [5]
• If one goes offline, while the other goes online, it will not work.

PS3 specifics [ ]

PS3 is know to have the most reliable connection process and depending on the internet connection itself, also stable. Reconnecting works very well.

"The original PS3 version has perfect connecting. If a Companion is near you with a matching level, it will get the two of you together. If it doesn't, you can either unplug your lan cable from the router or sign out of psn. If you press triangle on account management you can sign out and sign in quickly." [6]

References [ ]

• ↑ Summer 2022: Article about the new PlayStation plus system: https://blog.playstation.com/2022/03/29/all-new-playstation-plus-launches-in-june-with-700-games-and-more-value-than-ever/ "Customers who had an active PlayStation Now membership when the new PlayStation Plus membership service launched were migrated over to PlayStation Plus Premium." https://www.playstation.com/en-us/ps-now/
• ↑ There are some rare cases where this also happened (glitch/bug).
• ↑ Ravingmadness, 2020-11-30: this worked several times with people across the globe. No connection possible, changed server to their server and we connected.
• ↑ Ravingmadness, 2020-11-30: i heard this at least 2-3 times. People said that it doesn't work to others who were trying, as well as people trying for long time and not connecting.
• ↑ Zerathine, discord 2020-02-23
• ↑ This is from the video description here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLjF08SagdU . Thank you rebishaz for all the discoveries and videos.
• 2 How to play guide for Journey

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“Journey stands as a prime example of the truly remarkable things that can be done via this medium.” 10/10 – Giant Bomb “The mechanics are simple, but they establish a direct connection to the heart.” 10/10 – Gamespot “Journey's visual and sound design sets new standards for interactive entertainment. This alone makes it an extraordinary work, but it's the way that these aesthetic elements come together with beautifully subtle direction and storytelling to create a lasting emotional effect that elevates this to one of the very best games of our time.” 10/10 – The Guardian

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About This Game

System requirements.

• Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
• OS: Windows 10
• Processor: Intel Core i3-2120 | AMD FX-4350
• Memory: 4 GB RAM
• Graphics: Nvidia GTS 450 | AMD Radeon HD 5750
• Storage: 4 GB available space

© 2012-2020 Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC. Journey is a trademark of Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC. Developed by thatgamecompany. Conversion development by Inline Assembly Ltd. Published by Annapurna Interactive.

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Can you play with a friend or only anonymous?

Playstation 3 ios (iphone/ipad) pc playstation 4, journey (playstation 3).

• Can you chose a friend to play with? I play all of my online games with friends when I can. i will get this game if i can chose a friend to play with. megantereon - 12 years ago - report

Top Voted Answer

• You get synced up with partners based on the state of the environment, so if you put the environment in an odd state, you'll be less likely to get randoms and your friend can do the same to get partnered with you. For example, on the bridge level (first place you can meet others) you can put the bridge together except for one section you'll be less likely to have random people wandering in. It's probably easiest to set up on the following chapter, as less people are likely to skip the first cloth creature and do others. najzere - 12 years ago - report 16   5
• Early in the game you will begin meeting anonymous companions. my friend and i were able to force a meeting by entering the area simultaneously and walking around the area to the left. we were on the phone timing it up and had to do it about five times before it worked. CStrife7 - 12 years ago - report 15   13
• There is no way to tell who you're playing with. That's what makes Journey's multiplayer so unique. You meet a stranger, you travel with them. There's no invite system at all. Anonymous travels only, however I urge you not to just dismiss the game purely on that fact. It's a game well worth experiencing. You don't HAVE to play multiplayer either. If you're signed out, no-one can join. You can Journey alone if you wish. Of course, it's entirely up to you. ShadowGandalf - 12 years ago - report 10   9
• This game is truely unique and full of greatness!!! I'm on my 20th playthrough, I must say this is one game that never gets old or boring to play!!! But, there might be a way to beat that anonymouse option, I think if you jot down the names of the companions you met along the way and add them as a friend, maybe you would be able to let them know when your getting on Journey and just maybe if they enter at the same time, it's quite possible you'll know who your playing with..... TheGame50401 - 12 years ago - report 6   15

More Questions from This Game

• Will you be able to play Journey offline instead of just only online? General PS3 7 answers
• Would someone like to play Journey with me? General PS3 2 answers
• Is this an optical illusion or a haunt? Plot PS3 1 answer
• Do I have to get all the scarf extensions in one playthrough for the Transendence Trophy? Side Quest PS4 1 answer
• Should I wait for steam release? Tech Support PC 1 answer

10 years later, the best video game about nothing still lives up to the hype

A simple, beautiful adventure brought harmony to PS3 players around the world.

Seinfeld is famously a show about nothing. Obviously, there’s content on the show, but at the time of its release, every ’90s sitcom had some sort of gimmick. A show about funny people just being friends went against commercial trends. These same trends stifle gaming creators too. Are there any games that broke with conventional wisdom? Did time prove them right? Yes and yes — and one of the most noteworthy instances of this just turned 10.

Journey from thatgamecompany took the world by surprise when it was released on March 13, 2012 because it was, on the surface, about nothing. There’s no dialogue, no clear plot, and no token objectives. Yet the atmosphere and level design are so compelling that the game won the hearts of millions (and its fair share of GOTY awards, too).

Journey broke through during a deeply formulaic era of gaming. A look at the top-selling games of 2012 reveals nothing but 2s, 3s, 4s, and annual franchise staples. You could set your market forecast by Call of Duty , Madden, and others. There was Battlefield 3 , Elder Scrolls V , and Mass Effect 3 .

And then there was Journey .

Indie gaming had been steadily gaming Steam (pun intended) since the late 2000sm and releases like Minecraft and Braid showed the potential for well-developed, innovative titles. Along with Steam, Xbox Live Arcade became an important marketplace for indie developers.

Journey takes place in a series of sandswept ruins.

Sony didn’t have the indie support it does now but knew enough to let talented creators experiment by thinking outside the box. Journey was easy to underestimate. There’s no dialogue, no clever plot twists, no shooting or looting or gold. But it’s a shining example of how pure design can shatter expectations for what games should be to show us what they could be, instead.

The magic of Journey is in its aesthetic. Players begin the game in a sweeping desert landscape littered with ruins. The only objective is from a brief cutscene showing someone, something off in the distance dominated by a huge mountain.

So you move. And this is where Journey begins to hook you immediately. It just feels so good . Something about gliding over the wind-whipped sand dunes and skittering up crumbling staircases feels soft and precise. You float and fly along with one of the greatest original soundtracks of all time.

This was the first video game soundtrack to get nominated for a Grammy, and Austin Wintory’s orchestral genius remains a gold standard to this day. (If you’re a hardcore audiophile gamer, the OST is getting a vinyl re-release from iam8bit to celebrate the occasion). In many ways, Journey affirms the power of music as a narrative device, so don’t play it on shitty headphones.

Journey ’s OST is an all-timer.

Players also found meaning in the engaging, but minimalist, multiplayer. You don’t do matchmaking or lobbies. Instead, you encounter other players at random and travel from discovery to discovery together.

In choosing emotional depth over violence , Journey forged thousands of core memories for gamers who had never experienced anything together besides conflict and competition. Conventional multiplayer pits gamers against each other, Journey puts them together instead.

Journey is available on PC and the PlayStation Store, where it's currently on sale .

• Video Games
• PlayStation

Timeless Classic

Annapurna interactive.

• #19 in Family
• 4.2 • 690 Ratings

Screenshots

Description.

*Supported Devices: This game is supported on the following devices only: iPhone SE, iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, iPhone 7, 7 Plus, iPhone 8, 8 Plus, iPhone X, Xs, Xs Max, Xr, 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, iPad 5th Gen, iPad 6th Gen, iPad Air 2, iPad Mini 4, iPad Mini (2019), and all iPad Pros.* Explore the ancient, mysterious world of Journey as you soar above ruins and glide across sands to discover its secrets. Play alone or in the company of a fellow traveler and explore its vast world together. Featuring stunning visuals and a Grammy-nominated musical score, Journey delivers a breathtaking experience like no other. Game Center required for online matchmaking.

Version 1.0.3

Thank you for playing Journey! This version includes key performance improvements and bug fixes.

Ratings and Reviews

690 Ratings

Editors’ Choice

An unforgettable adventure awaits in developer Thatgamecompany’s acclaimed hit Journey. Make your way to a distant mountain by skimming across sand dunes, scaling snowy cliffs, and exploring ancient ruins. Your magical scarf will power you over obstacles—though if you need a hand, link up with fellow travelers for fleeting moments of cooperative joy. Staggeringly beautiful and timelessly poignant, Journey is a trip well worth taking.

Incredible game, 1 issue with iOS port

The first time I played Dune on PS4 was very recently, and I honestly had a spiritual experience, a first for me with a video game. The visuals and gameplay are so simplistic but even without any writing or dialogue they tell a very moving story, with a dreamlike sense of sacredness and a deep touch of humanity on a desolate alien world. The multiplayer aspect of the game is what really binds you to the experience, in my opinion. On this iOS version, you’ll find the multiplayer experience is lacking. I’m not sure why, but you simply can’t find another player to travel with you for the entire length of the journey. It may just be that because this is a mobile platform, people are swiping the app off in the middle of things, although I can’t see this being a “pick up, play, put down” kind of game, so I’m guessing it’s a connectivity issue. This is an older game with kind of a niche following so I can see why, with “Sky: Children of Light” doing so well now, Journey is a low priority, or maybe there is some issue that makes multiplayer of this kind harder on iOS for reasons I wouldn’t understand as a layperson. Journey gets 5 stars for PlayStation, and I could easily say 10/5 stars, but 4 stars from me for iOS because you typically lose the companionship aspect of the gameplay.

Truly Fun and Emotionally Powerful

A really enjoyable game. There can be so much toxic behavior in the gaming world sometimes, but this isn’t that kind of game. I feel lonely very often, and don’t often see friends or socialize; I didn’t know this game had multiplayer when I started playing it, and had played through it maybe six times alone, so I was quite shocked when I ran into someone. See, I have a disability; I cannot feel my hands, and the muscles in my fingers don’t work, but the player I ran into patiently helped me and stayed with me even though I am very clumsy, and repeatedly fell off of a tall structure at one point. We had to start over many times because of me before we succeeded, and it would be very understandable if it was frustrating for them, since they wouldn’t know why I was struggling with certain things that would probably have been much easier if my hands worked, and yet they still played through that part with me. After reading more about it, I know this game’s designers intended for their to be an emotional connection bond/connection formed between anonymous players who run into each other, and that the lack of text or speech comms is meant to add to that, and for me, that was an incredibly powerful experience. Also, it’s pretty cool that if I can play this game on iOS, then it is probably pretty accessible for other players with motor disabilities that affect their hands.

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Hidden Folks

Sky: Children of the Light

thatgamecompany

life’s companions

Experience the wonder in this anonymous adventure where you travel on a life’s passage, with the chance to connect with companions along the way.

a mysterious world

Alone and surrounded by miles of burning, sprawling desert, you soon discover the looming mountaintop is your goal. The passage will not be easy but this experience of a lifetime will help you discover who you are, what this place is, as you arrive at your purpose.

beautiful art and music

Soar above ruins and glide across sands as you explore the secrets of a forgotten civilization.  Featuring stunning visuals, haunting music, and unique online gameplay, Journey delivers an experience like no other.

The release of Journey attracted over 100+ industry awards and media accolades, with some naming the game as their ‘Game of The Year’ in 2012.

"A glorious, thoughtful, moving masterpiece"

- entertainment weekly, "mysterious and beautiful", "an incredible, emotional game", "one of the most amazing game experiences of my life", - gamesradar.

© 2012 Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC. Developed by thatgamecompany. Journey is a trademark of Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC.

Journey is a PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 game by thatgamecompany , that is distributed over PSN and was released on March 13, 2012. The player plays as a robed person journeying towards a distant mountain through a sandy desert. The game has a multiplayer component, in which players can interact on their journey and assist each other. As of May 29th 2012, it has become the fastest-selling PSN game ever.

• 1.1 Multiplayer
• 2.1 Features
• 2.2 Trailer
• 3 Reception
• 4 Development team
• 6 References

Gameplay [ ]

The players take the role of a robed figure traveling through a desert towards a large mountain. The player is not given any instructions on how to play the game or what the game's goal is, nor any map of the game's world.

There is no spoken dialogue besides the chirping call of the player, and the cutscenes are shown without any words. It is up to the player to interpret the storyline of Journey, leading to many theories as to what exactly is taking place.

Multiplayer [ ]

If the player is playing online, they can encounter other players while on their way, called companions . However, players cannot speak to each other (neither via voice nor text), nor are identified by any username, gamertag or avatar. They can communicate only via a wordless shout, and have symbols on the front of their robes, so players can identify whether they have already encountered a given fellow traveler or not. They can, however, assist each other.

According to the game's designer, Jenova Chen:

Items that players can find in the desert include pieces of cloth that they can fly on for a short period of time. There are also magical items and ruins including Glowing symbols , Ancient Glyphs , and Cloth Creatures . Easter eggs from other thatgamecompany games are a Hidden Desert Flower and a Mysterious Creature .

Collectors Edition [ ]

Journey Collectors Edition is the first retail disc release for thatgamecompany . It features Journey as well as the studio's previously released flOw and Flower and more. It was released August 28th, 2012 for the PlayStation 3.

Features [ ]

• 30-minute behind-the-scenes documentary about the making of Journey
• Creator Commentary play-throughs of all three games
• Three exclusive mini-games from thatgamecompany
• Concept art and screenshot galleries for all three games
• Original soundtracks for all three games
• PS3 dynamic themes and wallpapers
• PSN avatars including 8 exclusive new Journey avatars never released before
• Official game trailers and developer diary videos
• Reversible cover art
• One-month trial subscription of PlayStation Plus

Trailer [ ]

Reception [ ]

Journey received critical and commercial success worldwide. After its release, it became the fastest-selling game to date on PlayStation Store in both North America and Europe. [1] Review aggregator Metacritic scored the game at 92/100 for both PS3 and PS4 versions. [2] [3] Most critics praised the visual and auditory art direction, IGN even described the game as "the most beautiful game of its time", [4] while Slant community collectively agreed that the game offers a simple but really enjoyable gameplay. [5]

Development team [ ]

The development team of Journey on Christmas 2011. The scarves were hand-crafted by Robin Hunicke (bottom row center) and Matt Nava (leftmost) with a unique symbol for each team member. [6]

19 people participated in the creation of the game. [7]

Gallery [ ]

References [ ]

• ↑ Chen, Jenova: Journey Breaks PSN Sales Records . Accessed on February 2, 2018.
• ↑ Metacritic: Journey for PlayStation 3 . Accessed on February 2, 2018.
• ↑ Metacritic: Journey for PlayStation 4 Accessed on February 2, 2018.
• ↑ Clements, Ryan: Journey Review . Accessed on February 2, 2018.
• ↑ Slant: Journey - What are the best PS4 exclusive games? Accessed on February 2, 2018.
• ↑ Kellee Santiago's blog post . Accessed on January 9, 2017.
• ↑ The Journey page on thatgamecompany's website , the "Development team" section. Accessed on January 9, 2017.
• 1 White Robe
• 2 The Traveler
• 3 Glowing symbols

'Journey' Review

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Game Rant's Jeff Schille reviews Journey

Journey is a confounding game to review. That is largely by design, and one could say the same about thatgamecompany's previous efforts, flOw and Flower . Although it is possessed of mechanics that evolve over the course of the experience, Journey isn't about its mechanics in the way that, say, Modern Warfare 3 is about shooting things.

Indeed, discovery defines the experience of playing Journey as much as anything can be said to. Discovery of the game's simple, minimalist mechanics, discovery of the hidden features and meanings of the game's world, and best of all, the discovery of other travellers on the same journey.

Truthfully, the less players know about Journey at the outset, the better. As such, this review will endeavor to be as spoiler-free as possible (although players determined to go in with a little extra knowledge may want to check out this list of Journey's trophies ). For readers who simply want to know whether or not the game earns a recommendation from this reviewer, it does. Frankly, I'd like everyone to play Journey . I am not, however, sure that everyone will appreciate it equally.

Journey opens on a hill in the desert, with a volcano-like peak visible in the distance that is the player's destination. Covering the distance between those two points makes up the entirety of the experience. In that sense, Journey can accurately be described as a game about traversal, though to do so would be reductive (for more details, check out Game Rant's E3 2011 Journey preview ).

Though it is not demanding mechanically --in fact, completing the short game is a cinch -- Journey is demanding of players' attention. Everything that happens in Journey happens in the game world and to the character -- there is no in-game map, no status bar, no arrow to point the way forward. Save for a few brief control prompts early on, there is no onscreen UI at all  -- nothing to get in the way of Journey's gorgeous, singular visual presentation.

Though the game's landscapes are stylized and occasionally abstract (and sometimes resemble the legendary album covers drawn by Roger Dean), thatgamecompany did not use Journey's visual design as an excuse to present a flat, featureless world. Journey's often expansive environments shimmer and glitter in the heat of the sun, while sand is blown all around and reacts as players move through it (see for yourself in this  Journey  beta footage ), though desert is not the only terrain waiting to be crossed.

Journey is not merely pretty, it is often breathtakingly beautiful -- almost hypnotically so. Everything moves as if under water, slowly and with flowing grace. Journey's  orchestral score, alternately somber and soaring, matches the game's measured pace.

At its best, the game envelops players with remarkable beauty and the wonder of discovery, creating a calm reverie that is wholly unique. That said, much rests on players giving themselves to that reverie. Players who, for whatever reason, are unmoved by Journey's visual splendor will likely be left wondering what all the fuss is about. There is little in Journey , mechanically, to compensate, and the game's intentionally obscure storytelling all but ensures that the short attention span crowd need not apply.

Still, Journey is wondrous. It is a game with a point of view. There is a pervading sense that the designers at thatgamecompany strove to deliver a very personal, very specific message to players through the game. Though opinion will likely vary on exactly what that message is, the presence of an authorial perspective palpably enriches the experience at hand.

Take, for instance, Journey's online multiplayer. Players who opt in will, sooner or later, encounter other travellers. There is absolutely no verbal or written communication between characters, no requirement that players collaborate, and no penalty for simply going ahead alone. Nonetheless, it is quietly fascinating to watch another random player working through the game, and it is telling that there are opportunities for players to behave benevolently. Despite the anonymity of the experience, travelling with a companion manages to make Journey's rewards that much richer.

There is a temptation to look at the whole of Journey as a rebuke to the violence and viscera-obsessed titles that regularly dominate sales charts (it's true that if there is a polar opposite to those games, Journey is it). As such, players who love nothing more than curb stomping a Locust head in Gears of War might not be expected to embrace Journey -- and that would be their loss.

However, there is a downcast, exclusionary cynicism in that evaluation that Journey simply does not abide -- cynicism is not a part of the game's worldview. Rather, Journey is an uplifting, ultimately joyous exploration of what games can accomplish and convey. It is a celebration of the medium and its myriad possibilities, and a gift of great and singular beauty to players -- all players. This Journey truly is its own reward, and comes highly recommended.

Journey is available now, exclusively for PlayStation 3.

Follow me on Twitter @ HakenGaken

Thatgamecompany’s Journey is a visually stunning indie adventure game where players travel across an ancient desert. The player character is able to fly and glide while exploring the old ruins and structures in Journey, in search of their hidden secrets.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

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The Best Online Multiplayer Games of 2024

One of the most fun aspects of the internet is that no matter what time it is, no matter where you are, you can hop online and find dozens—if not hundreds!—of people who are eager to play the same game you want to play, right now. Whether you want to rank up in competitive games, work your way up to the esports scene, or just play some chill games with your online friends, these are our favorite online multiplayer games.

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Survive the Wasteland (and Woo Some Ghouls)

If you liked Amazon’s rather excellent Fallout TV series that dropped earlier this year, then Bethesda’s ongoing online game, Fallout 76 , might be the perfect way to stay engaged with the post-apocalypse. While it was kind of a mess when it first came out , it’s gotten much better over the years . The game emphasizes the community-building and customization aspects of games like Fallout 4 , while adding survival sim features that feel more pronounced in a multiplayer game than they did in some of Bethesda’s solo entries in the series.

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Helldivers 2 is easily one of the hottest new multiplayer games of 2024. While its faced some technical issues during its initial rollout, the game has a Starship Troopers vibe, pitting four players against waves of alien bugs, all with a satirical tone that never really turns off . Sony stirred up a bit of controversy a while back by announcing that a PSN account would be require for new and current players, but fortunately the company has backed down on this decision .

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Answer the Recall to Save the World

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Run Like a Ninja

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From multiplayer matches to couch co-op adventures, sometimes two (or more) heads are better than one. Here are six multiplayer video games to add to your collection for building community in the library and at home.

Multiplayer games come in many forms these days: Some pit opponents against one another in friendly competition, while others ask players to work together toward a common goal. And alternatively, some are single-player games that are ideal for sharing the controller—and the experience—with a friend. This roundup features titles perfect for building community in the library and at home.

It Takes Two.   Mar. 2021. Hazelight Studios/EA. Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S. Price $39.99. Rated T –Cody and May are parents on the verge of divorce. Their only child Rose, who is upset about her parents’ impending split, inadvertently curses the two bickering adults and they are shrunk to the size of dolls. Players assume the roles of the parents to try and break the spell. The characters bicker constantly and fall into divorce-plot stereotypes: She’s too serious! He’s too silly! But they still need to work together. The game must be played with two people, as the environment demands the players use co-op strategy to conquer its challenges. Some obstacles are simple, like one character standing on a button to let the other through a door. They become more complex, e.g., one character holding a hook and rope that the other must swing from. Adult players may be charmed by a game reminiscent of Honey, I Shrunk the Kids , and teen players will enjoy the cooperative gameplay that involves platforming, puzzle-solving, and shooting. VERDICT   Fun and accessible to players of all skill levels, but the divorce plot, characters with a callous disregard for others, and brutal cartoon violence keep this a strictly T-rated adventure.

WarioWare: Move It!.  Nov. 2023. Nintendo. Nintendo Switch. Price $49.99. Rated E10+ –The WarioWare series debuted in 2003, and this is its 10th installment. Move It! is most reminiscent of Smooth Moves , Wario’s Wii adventure. In Move It!, players must hold the two Joy-Con controllers in a variety of ways to accomplish their goals. Some games ask players to hold the controllers over their heads, or hold one controller on their nose and one on their rear so they look like a pecking chicken. As the title suggests, lots of movement is required. The game is set into motion when Wario wins a trip to a tropical resort. But the plot doesn’t matter in a WarioWare game—it merely serves as a frame for wacky gameplay. WarioWare: Move It! consists of “microgames” in which players are given short instruction before they have roughly five seconds to figure out how to play and how to win. For instance, when “Clean!” appears on the screen, players must use their controllers to spritz a cleaning solution with one hand and scrub a dirty window with the other. Zaniness inevitably ensues, especially when played with a group. A wealth of multiplayer options exists, and players can take turns, compete against one another, or work cooperatively to achieve a high score. However, the game moves so fast, it is sometimes difficult to tell why a player failed a challenge. VERDICT   A great party game option for those who aren’t afraid to look silly in front of friends and family.

Unpacking.  Nov. 2021. Witch Beam/Humble Bundle. MacOS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One. Price $19.99. Rated E – Unpacking follows an unseen protagonist across 20 years of their life. The player sets up their childhood bedroom, then accompanies the character as they go to college, move in with roommates and partners, go through breakups, and more. Environments are rendered with vintage, SNES-style graphics that show incredible attention to detail. The pixel art on the in-game book jacket is especially striking. Eagle-eyed librarians and book lovers can spot 16-bit interpretations of The Handmaid’s Tale and What to Expect Whe n You’re Expecting , among other classics. Unpacking is not a traditional multiplayer game. Instead, it is perfect for old-school couch co-op where players pass the controller, take turns, and offer guidance to one another. This could be a great game for older players to share with younger ones. The game is playable in 16 different languages, icon size can be adjusted, and controller settings modifiable depending on handedness. VERDICT  A nostalgic, reminiscent game worthy of adding to any collection.

Everybody 1-2-Switch!  J un. 2023. Nintendo. Nintendo Switch. Price $29.99. Rated E –This sequel to 1-2-Switch , which was a Nintendo Switch launch title, really does mean it when they say everybody can play. This versatile party game can welcome up to 100 participants with Joy-Cons or smart devices. Players divide up to compete in wacky mini-games, such as moving their devices to pump up a large balloon, or perhaps greeting an incoming UFO. Controls are intuitive at times, but frustrating at others. Each game is introduced by a high definition video featuring real people. These intros slow the pace but make this title less intimidating for casual players. VERDICT   While maybe not a high-circulating title, this game is still worth firing up for an in-library event or recommending to those looking for a less rude version of the popular Jackbox games.

Street Fighter 6.   Jun. 2023. Capcom. PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X/S. Price $49.99. Rated T –Ryu, Chun Li, Blanka, and…Luke? Street Fighter 6 is the latest game in a series that has been in the mainstream since the 1990s. Iconic characters like Zangief and Guile return, but the game foregrounds newcomer Luke, even putting him on the cover. This decision goes hand-in-fist with the game’s new story mode. The player is invited to create a character and go on a personal journey toward being world champion. Character customization is deep, with players permitted to create an avatar from myriad body shapes, skin tones, and more. Players can try to create a realistic character or go for one with outlandish proportions. The gameplay is adjustable to adapt for series veterans or newcomers. For instance, experts can use the familiar complex button inputs to do special moves like spinning kicks or throwing fireballs, whereas newbies can execute these flashy maneuvers with two simple button presses. These modern controls are juxtaposed against a graphic style and vibe that feels like it’s still the 1990s. VERDICT   A strong choice for libraries looking to expand their fighting game selections that will appeal to brawlers of all skill levels.

OverCooked! All You Can Eat.  Nov. 2021. Ghost Town Games. Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S. Price $39.99. Rated E –For players who want to experience the fast-paced environment of a busy restaurant without worrying about cuts and burns. The OverCooked! series puts players in the kitchen to prepare, cook, and serve meals for demanding customers. And they can’t do it alone: two to four players must work together to keep up with the restaurant’s demand. Levels become more absurd as players progress. Little chefs must cook and deliver meals while aboard an airship, in a magical castle, and commanding a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant. Players can customize their tiny chef with a variety of skin tones or even turn them into anthropomorphic animals. OverCooked! and its sequel are included in this compilation, and while the sequel is the real highlight, both are true tests of communication skills and cool heads under pressure. VERDICT   A must-have multiplayer experience for any collection.

Chance Lee Joyner, Tyngsborough P.L., MA

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Does Dragon’s Dogma 2 Have Multiplayer? DD2 Pawn System Explained

• Dragon's Dogma 2 offers limited multiplayer through sharing Pawns, creating an asynchronous experience for multiple players.
• Players can't directly join each other's games or control Pawns, but can share companions, gifts, and knowledge with each other.
• Experience, Inclinations, and classes play a crucial role in Pawn combat strategies and quest advice.

Dragon's Dogma 2 has some limited online multiplayer features, but the way they work isn't immediately clear. Although it's primarily a single-player RPG, the world of Dragon's Dogma 2 can be explored by a party of up to four. These may include the player character (the Arisen), friends' characters, and/or anything players can dream up in the robust character creator included with Dragon's Dogma 2 .

Co-op multiplayer modes have become increasingly popular in open world RPGs, with games like Elden Ring and Baldur's Gate 3 allowing friends to adventure together in recent years. Dragon's Dogma 2 does have some multiplayer mechanics, but they're not as comprehensive or simple as joining a friend's party and playing through the game together. Here's everything to know about Dragon's Dogma 2 and its unusual approach to multiplayer.

Dragon's Dogma 2 Review: "A Wonderful Journey, & A True Novelty"

Does dragon's dogma 2 have co-op, dd2 multiplayer explained.

To put it simply, no, Dragon's Dogma 2 doesn't have a traditional system of multiplayer co-op . Players can't join each other's games directly or share save files. For almost all intents and purposes, Dragon's Dogma 2 is a single-player game. Its companions, called Pawns in Dragon's Dogma lore, are always non-player characters controlled by AI. A player can issue simple commands to their Pawns, or change their classes, but there's no way to control a Pawn directly.

However, there are limited multiplayer features in Dragon's Dogma 2 , which involve the sharing of Pawns . On beginning a new game, a player creates their protagonist and a single Main Pawn. The Main Pawn cannot be dismissed, and follows them throughout the entire game. Once they find a Riftstone, the player can hire up to two additional Pawns by expending Rift Crystals. Depending on their settings, options may include Pawns created by other players, or official Pawns designed by the developers of Dragon's Dogma 2 . Players can even specifically search for Pawns created by their friends.

This system creates an interesting kind of asynchronous multiplayer experience. While two friends will never be able to play together directly, they can share in the Dragon's Dogma 2 adventure by making covenants with one another's Main Pawns. For example, a player character might discover an enemy weakness with a friend's Pawn, or complete a certain quest with them. The Pawn will share their knowledge when they return to their original creator. Players can also compare and contrast experiences with the same Pawn, perhaps inspiring each other to try out different party comps or quest choices down the line.

Players can change the classes of their Arisen and Main Pawn, but Hired Pawns are locked into the Vocations their creators gave them.

If a player ever decides to dismiss a Pawn, they can give that Pawn a gift before parting ways. The next time the Pawn's creator logs in, their Pawn will present them with the gift. This can be a helpful way for players to share items. If one person has a piece of equipment they've grown out of, but a friend can still use, they can simply hire that friend's Pawn, gift the item to them, and send the Pawn on their way.

Which Dragon's Dogma 2 Race You Should Choose Based On Your Personality

How the pawn system works in dragon's dogma 2.

Hiring and dismissing Pawns is relatively simple, but there's much more to consider when it comes to adventuring with them. For the most part, Pawns work much the same as they did in the original Dragon's Dogma . Once a Pawn is hired, they can be added to the player's party, and will commence following them as they travel across the map of Dragon's Dogma 2 . Pawns will participate in combat, pick up items, and provide commentary on the world around them. They always come with the same gear and Vocation their creators assigned to them.

Certain Vocations are exclusive to the Arisen, and thus unavailable for assignment to Pawns.

A Pawn's prior experience affects their knowledge , and informs what kind of advice they're most likely to offer. Hired Pawns who have fought a wide variety of enemies with their creators, for example, will have intimate knowledge of their strengths and weaknesses. Pawns who have completed certain quests with other player characters may find the objectives more easily. Pawns whose creators found shortcuts or hidden treasures are more likely to point them out. Pawns share knowledge both ways, so if a player's Main Pawn is hired out, they'll gain knowledge from other players' activities as well.

Every Pawn has one or more Inclinations. Inclinations not only determine how the Pawn reacts to in-game events, and which voice lines they're most likely to use, but also what actions they prioritize in combat . While a Pawn's primary Inclination is baked in during character creation, they may gain secondary and even tertiary Inclinations based on the player character's actions in combat. Main Pawns will also imitate Hired Pawns' Inclinations over time. Certain Inclinations match best with certain classes, ensuring a character acts according to their strengths. The four available Inclinations and their ideal Vocations are:

Dragon's Dogma 2 Won't Tolerate The One Bad Habit All RPG Players Are Guilty Of

Of course, these are just suggestions designed to make Pawns as optimal and self-sufficient as possible. Other combinations might work just as well: a Straightforward Sorcerer can deal a lot of damage with the right support, and a Calm Fighter could make for an excellent tank.

Each Pawn also has a unique Pawn Quest , which usually involves a simple objective like killing a specific enemy or camping in a particular location. Once these are completed, the Arisen gains the Pawn's gratitude, as well as some kind of material reward. Completing Pawn Quests isn't necessary by any means, but since they're usually pretty simple, they're worth doing when the Arisen is in the area.

Even though Dragon's Dogma 2 doesn't have traditional co-op, its asynchronous multiplayer features can greatly enhance the experience. There's no risk to hiring out Main Pawns, and there's no limit to how many players can use the same Pawn at the same time. Even if a Pawn dies, they'll simply return to their creators unharmed, and all their items will go into storage. The worst that can happen is a Main Pawn coming back with an unwanted gift. As a result, there's no reason not to enjoy the unique multiplayer mechanics of Dragon's Dogma 2 .

Dragon's Dogma II

The Sequel to Dragon's Dogma and its expansion, Dark Arisen, Dragon's Dogma 2 is an action-adventure RPG game from the developers at Capcom. Players will create their protagonist, the "Arisen," as they embark on a journey to slay a Dragon that threatens the world. Joined by otherworldly beings known as Pawns, the Arisen will utilize melee weapons and spells as they battle against various types of foes.

Platform(s) Xbox Series X/S, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 5

Released March 22, 2024

Developer(s) Capcom

Publisher(s) Capcom

Genre(s) Action, RPG, Adventure

Planet Coaster 2 revealed with water parks and multiplayer park-building for 2024 release

First trailer makes a few waves

"It's going to be a good, good, good, good day," sings Frontier's announcement trailer for theme park simulator Planet Coaster 2 . Not for me it isn't, because now I have to compare my shabby flat, in which there are exactly zero waterslides at the time of publication, with Planet Coaster 2, in which you can expect such aquatic attractions as "meandering lazy rivers", "adrenaline-pumping wave pools", "looping flumes" and "exhilarating water coasters". Please watch the trailer while I yet again revisit the possibility of sneaking into Stoke-On-Trent's Waterworld and trying to pass myself off as the resident ghost.

Planet Coaster 2 is due for release in fall 2024, falling being what happens to your chirpy Pixar-plastic guests if you get a bit too excited when plotting out the ole' loop-de-loops. It'll be available on Epic Games Store and Steam , and yes, vertiginous watery delights are the major addition, but we can also expect new land-based themepark rides, new park themes such as Viking ("rustic", apparently?) and new flavours of scenery. They're also promising expanded park management tools, multiplayer park-building, and the ability to create "exciting animatronics shows using the new event sequencer tool".

The original Planet Coaster came out in 2016, and was hailed by Fraser Brown (RPS in PCGamer) as "a game that inspired me to spend an entire hour constructing a toilet". It features on our lists of the best non-violent video games , the best management games , and the best building games . The sequel has big boots to fill, but it's gotten off to a fine start by saturating my eyes and brain with sultry imagery of coruscating, coloured tubes of H2O. We'll try to get you one of those "preview" things as soon as we can.

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Microsoft to increase Game Pass prices and drop day-one games from standard tier

Game Pass Ultimate hits $19.99/month, Game Pass for Console to be phased out

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Share All sharing options for: Microsoft to increase Game Pass prices and drop day-one games from standard tier

Microsoft has announced sweeping changes to the pricing and structure of its Game Pass subscription service. There are price hikes across the board: Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is going up to $19.99/month, an increase of $3. And the basic console tier is to be phased out and replaced with a new Xbox Game Pass Standard tier that will not include day-one releases like the forthcoming Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 .

The changes were reported by Windows Central and confirmed by Microsoft on an official Xbox support page .

Effective immediately, Xbox Game Pass for Console is no longer available for new subscribers. Members who are already subscribed to Game Pass for Console and have automatic payment renewal enabled will be able to continue to use it, including the access it offers to day-one games.

Xbox Game Pass Standard will become available to new or lapsed subscribers “in the coming months,” Microsoft said. This new tier will not include day-one releases of Microsoft-published games like Black Ops 6 , Obsidian’s Avowed , and Bethesda’s Indiana Jones and the Great Circle . But it will include online multiplayer, which is currently not part of the Game Pass for Console plan. Microsoft did not say how long it would take for its big first-party games, or other day-one releases, to cycle into the back catalog of “hundreds” of games offered on the Standard tier. At $14.99/month, it will be more expensive than Game Pass for Console, which has a monthly cost of $10.99.

PC Game Pass subscribers will continue to get day-one games, albeit with a price increase of $2/month. But Game Pass Ultimate is now the only option for console players who want day-one releases and aren’t already signed up to the existing Console plan. (Microsoft sources told Windows Central that “the vast majority” of Game Pass subscribers are already on the Ultimate tier, anyway.)

Every tier of Game Pass (with the exception of the Console offering, which is being phased out) is seeing price increases. These increases are effective immediately for new subscribers. Existing subscribers will see their charges go up from Sept. 12.

Here’s how the various tiers of Game Pass stack up now, with their new pricing:

• Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is going up from $16.99/month to $19.99/month. This tier includes day-one releases, the full game catalog, online multiplayer, cloud gaming, EA Play membership, and access on both Xbox consoles and PC.
• Xbox Game Pass Standard will cost $14.99/month when it launches. It will include online multiplayer and access to a back catalog of hundreds of games on console, but won’t include day-one releases.
• Xbox Game Pass Core remains $9.99/month, but a 12-month subscription is going up from $59.99 to $74.99. This tier includes online multiplayer and a small catalog of over 25 games.
• PC Game Pass is going up from $9.99/month to $11.99/month. This tier includes day-one releases and access to the full game catalog on PC.
• Xbox Game Pass for Console costs $10.99/month for existing subscribers, but you can no longer sign up for it. If you turn off automatic payments and your membership lapses, you’ll lose access and will need to join a different plan. You can continue to redeem codes for this tier and stack them to ensure continued access, but from Sept. 18 the maximum extension limit for the Console plan will be 13 months. This tier includes day-one releases and the full game catalog for console, but excludes online multiplayer.

For those outside the U.S., Microsoft has made a full list of worldwide price changes for Game Pass available.

The changes may seem confusing, but ultimately Microsoft’s marketing strategy for Game Pass remains the same: to aggressively concentrate the value in the top Ultimate tier, and aim to get most subscribers paying for that tier. But the tactics have changed, with Microsoft choosing to remove day-one releases from the middle console tier, rather than online multiplayer, as an incentive to sign up for Ultimate.

Combined with the price increases, it certainly seems as though Microsoft is keen to recoup as much as possible of the revenue it is sacrificing by putting guaranteed sellers like Call of Duty on Game Pass . This strategy is only slightly undercut by the fact that day-one releases remain available on PC Game Pass, which increasingly looks like the bargain plan of the lineup.

Approached by Polygon for comment, a Microsoft spokesperson simply confirmed the changes and pointed to the official customer support page.

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Cricket 24: The Official Game Of The Ashes

Online multiplayer on console requires Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or Xbox Game Pass Core (sold separately).

Description

Cricket 24 is the culmination of a decade of Cricket video game development and includes teams from every corner of the globe. Players will be able to take on major cricket nations including Australia and England in the official Ashes, West Indies, New Zealand, Ireland and more, plus for the first time ever, professional Indian T20 teams, all set in over 50 detailed official stadiums. Cricket 24 is the most complete video game simulation of cricket seen to date. Cricket 24: Building the most realistic cricket video game ever! - The Ashes: Cricket 24 will feature the biggest rivalry in cricket, The Ashes. Detailed cutscenes immerse the player in the moment as the Ashes tour progresses. Feel a part of the team with press conferences and team training sessions. Unique commentary allows for complete Ashes immersion. Experience The Ashes playing as a single player, or as Australia or England. - Official Licenses: over 300 players with full photogrammetry. Major Cricket Nations including Australia, England, West Indies, New Zealand and Ireland plus more. The biggest tournaments including The Ashes, the KFC BBL and Weber WBBL, The Hundred, the Caribbean Premier League plus a number of professional Indian T20 teams, along with more than 50 highly detailed official stadiums. - Career Mode: follow the journey of your player from club cricketer to the international stage, developing your skills and growing your fan base as you hone your craft to become the next big thing in cricket. Cricket 24 gives more control to the player in determining their destiny, becoming a short-form hero, focusing on the Test team, or trying to balance both on your way to cricketing stardom. - All new fielding: a complete overhaul of the fielding systems to provide the most realistic and responsive fielding controls ever seen in a cricket video game.

Published by

Developed by, release date, playable on, capabilities.

• Xbox local co-op (2-2)
• Online co-op (2-2)
• Xbox local multiplayer (2-4)
• Online multiplayer (2-4)
• Xbox cross-platform multiplayer
• Single player
• Xbox cross-platform co-op
• Xbox achievements

Included in these subscriptions

Xbox game pass ultimate.

• Hundreds of high-quality games on console, PC, and cloud
• New games on day one
• Member deals, discounts, and Perks
• Online console multiplayer
• EA Play EA Play membership

PC Game Pass

• Hundreds of high-quality games on PC
• Member deals and discounts