Jump to content

All Activity

This stream auto-updates     

  1. Past hour
  2. Actually, he did kind of identify as that: https://youtu.be/N_4Y9QKpAqs?t=6710
  3. Today
  4. In the last videochat, Ross has personally endorsed this Initiative (though not as a Stop Killing Games figure): https://eci.ec.europa.eu/053/public/ https://www.goodfoodforall.eu/faq/ If you'd like, get your friends and family that are EU citizens to sign like with Stop Killing Games: https://citizens-initiative.europa.eu/how-it-works/faq_en#paragraph_825
  5. Hey y'all, I'm new here. Is there a way we can attend the conference online, like a Zoom call or something? I don't want to participate per say but I'd like to watch it live.
  6. The fact that you consider it necessary to explain that to Ross is utterly hilarious. I'm not sure whether you've only made an account here while being an old time fan, or if you actually just found about Ross and decided to immediately start calling the shots, but, see, Ross himself isn't "neurodivergent". He's a mature, rational, level-headed adult with a degree in psychology.
  7. S666.com là điểm đến hàng đầu cho những ai yêu thích trải nghiệm trực tuyến tiện lợi và phong phú. Tại S666, người dùng có thể khám phá nhiều dịch vụ đa dạng, từ giải trí, trò chơi tương tác, đến các tiện ích trực tuyến giúp kết nối và trải nghiệm thú vị hơn mỗi ngày. Giao diện thân thiện, tối ưu trên mọi thiết bị, giúp mọi thao tác trở nên nhanh chóng và mượt mà. Với cam kết mang lại trải nghiệm an toàn và minh bạch, S666 luôn nỗ lực cải tiến liên tục để đáp ứng nhu cầu của cộng đồng người dùng đông đảo. Thông tin rõ ràng, hướng dẫn chi tiết và hỗ trợ kịp thời giúp mọi người dễ dàng tiếp cận và sử dụng các dịch vụ một cách hiệu quả. Trang web cũng liên tục cập nhật các xu hướng mới, mang đến những tính năng hấp dẫn và độc đáo, đảm bảo rằng mỗi trải nghiệm tại S666 đều thú vị và đáng nhớ. Khám phá S666 để trải nghiệm sự tiện ích, giải trí và kết nối trong một môi trường trực tuyến hiện đại và đáng tin cậy.
  8. Lineage 2M, NCSoft’s expansive mobile MMORPG, offers players a rich world full of sprawling dungeons, massive PvP conflicts, and Lineage 2M Diamonds terrifying world bosses. One of the most legendary foes in the game is Antharas, the Earth Dragon. In "Shadowstrike of the Antharas Awakening," players must prepare to face this titanic creature while mastering one of the game’s most lethal rogue-style abilities — Shadowstrike. This guide walks you through building for Shadowstrike and defeating Antharas in his awakened form. Understanding the Shadowstrike Skill Shadowstrike is a high-damage assassination ability used primarily by dagger-wielding classes such as Treasure Hunter or Abyss Walker. It’s designed for quick burst damage and mobility, ideal for both PvE boss fights and PvP ambushes. Skill Traits: Type: Active Melee Skill Effect: Deals massive critical damage from stealth or behind the target Bonus: Increased crit rate and chance to ignore defense Cooldown: Moderate (requires precise timing) Shadowstrike excels when combined with speed boosts, evasion, and stealth mechanics, allowing you to slip past guards or raid bosses’ AoEs for pinpoint lethal strikes. Building the Shadowstrike Assassin To maximize Shadowstrike’s potential, you need to optimize your character for speed, precision, and critical output. Class Path Start: Rogue Advanced: Treasure Hunter / Abyss Walker Specialization: Choose abilities that boost crit rate, evasion, and stealth duration. Key Stats to Prioritize: DEX (Dexterity): Increases accuracy and evasion STR (Strength): Boosts melee damage and critical power AGI (Agility): Reduces cooldowns and increases attack speed Recommended Gear: Weapon: Dual Daggers or Enhanced Assassin’s Blade Armor: Light armor sets with evasion, speed, and crit bonuses (e.g., Phantom Set) Accessories: Crit rings, evasion earrings, and cooldown reduction pendants Enchantments: Focus on crit rate, movement speed, and backstab damage Preparing for the Antharas Awakening Raid Antharas, the Earth Dragon, is one of the mightiest world bosses in Lineage 2M. He awakens periodically and requires a full alliance raid or a highly-coordinated party to bring down. His mechanics challenge even veteran players. Entry Requirements: Character level 55+ recommended Gear enhancement level +6 or higher Access to the Dragon Valley Cave – Core Chamber Time-limited event participation (Antharas Awakening events are typically scheduled weekly) Antharas Awakening Boss Mechanics Antharas uses a combination of AoE earth magic, tail swipes, summons, and rage phases. Knowing his patterns is critical for survival. Phase 1: Earth Shockwaves Antharas uses wide-range ground slams. Spread out to minimize damage stacking. Melee DPS should flank the rear and sides. Phase 2: Stone Summons He summons golems to protect him. DPS should quickly clear adds to avoid overwhelming support roles. Shadowstrike users can burst down casters or healers among the mobs. Phase 3: Rage Awakening At 30% HP, Antharas becomes enraged. Increased damage and faster attack patterns. He uses Roar of Destruction, which can one-shot undergeared players. Shadowstrike Strategy vs. Antharas Using Shadowstrike effectively during the Antharas fight requires both timing and stealth mobility. Before Combat: Use stealth abilities to close the gap safely. Coordinate with your tank to avoid aggroing Antharas prematurely. Activate buffs and cooldown reduction potions. During Combat: Circle around to Antharas’ back and wait for a moment when he’s not performing AoEs. Use Shadowstrike when your crit chance is boosted (via buffs or class passives). After attacking, immediately disengage to avoid retaliation — use skills like Evasion Roll or Shadow Retreat. Mob Control: During the Stone Summons phase, switch targets and use Shadowstrike to snipe high-priority mobs (casters or healers). Shadowstrike’s burst makes it ideal for deleting low-HP mobs instantly. Team Coordination Tips Assign Shadowstrike users to flank Antharas and handle rear-side DPS responsibilities. Tanks must maintain threat while leaving the back clear for assassins to operate. Healers should prioritize movement-based healing to support mobile DPS like Shadowstrikers. Voice or in-game chat is essential to coordinate AoE avoidance and burst damage phases. Loot and Rewards Defeating Antharas offers high-end loot including: Earth Dragon Jewelry (rare accessories) Dragon Scale Fragments (used for crafting) Unique Dagger Blueprints Antharas Rune Crystals (enhance Earth-elemental resistances and skills) Shadowstrike assassins especially benefit from the Antharas Cloak, which boosts critical damage from behind and improves stealth duration. Final Thoughts In Lineage 2M: Shadowstrike of the Antharas Awakening, mastering both a deadly assassin build and one of the game’s most dangerous bosses offers a uniquely satisfying experience. Shadowstrike brings high-risk, high-reward gameplay, and when paired with strategic movement and precision, it can turn the tide of the battle. Antharas may be a colossal threat, but with the right build, smart tactics, and a well-prepared team, even the mightiest dragon can fall to the blade of a silent killer. So sharpen your daggers, step from the shadows, and cheap Lineage 2M Diamonds let the Earth Dragon feel the sting of your Shadowstrike.
  9. Dune: Awakening plunges players into the brutal world of Arrakis, where survival hinges on mastering both environment and combat. Among the many powerful abilities at your disposal, the Sandstorm Reaper’s Wrath stands out as a game-changing skill that blends environmental destruction with lethal precision. This guide will dive deep into understanding, mastering, and Dune Awakening Solari maximizing the potential of this devastating sandstorm-based attack. Understanding Sandstorm Reaper’s Wrath The Sandstorm Reaper’s Wrath is a high-tier skill that summons a furious sandstorm around your character, dealing continuous area-of-effect (AoE) damage to nearby enemies while applying debuffs that weaken their defenses and reduce their accuracy. Unlike conventional attacks, this skill capitalizes on the volatile nature of the Arrakis environment, turning the harsh desert elements against your foes. When to Use Sandstorm Reaper’s Wrath Timing and positioning are key when wielding the Reaper’s Wrath. This skill excels in: Crowd Control: Use it to disperse groups of weaker enemies, quickly softening them up or outright killing clusters before they overwhelm you. Boss Fights: While its damage-over-time effect is slower than a direct strike, the debuffs it applies make bosses more vulnerable to your team’s focused attacks. Defensive Maneuvers: If you find yourself surrounded or retreating, activating this skill can create a protective zone that discourages enemies from advancing. How to Unlock and Upgrade Sandstorm Reaper’s Wrath To access this skill, you’ll need to progress through the Desert Ascendancy skill tree, investing points in environmental manipulation and elemental mastery. Early investment in sandstorm synergy skills will boost the duration and damage of the Reaper’s Wrath. Upgrades focus on: Damage Increase: Boosts AoE damage output. Debuff Strength: Intensifies enemy accuracy and defense reduction. Duration Extension: Keeps the sandstorm active longer. Cooldown Reduction: Allows more frequent use in combat. Key Strategies for Mastery 1. Positioning is Everything Since Sandstorm Reaper’s Wrath affects a radius around you, standing too close to your enemies can sometimes put you at risk, especially if they have strong melee attacks. Position yourself strategically—ideally on the edge of enemy groups—to maximize damage while minimizing incoming harm. 2. Synergize with Team Abilities Coordinate with your team to stack debuffs. While your sandstorm weakens enemies, allies can follow up with high-damage skills or crowd-control abilities to capitalize on reduced defenses. Communication during raids or PvP scenarios can turn Sandstorm Reaper’s Wrath into a pivotal team asset. 3. Combine with Mobility Skills Sandstorms can restrict your movement slightly. Pair this skill with abilities that enhance mobility or defensive buffs to maintain control over the battlefield without becoming an easy target. 4. Resource Management Activating Sandstorm Reaper’s Wrath consumes significant stamina or energy resources. Manage your resource pool carefully to avoid being caught defenseless once the sandstorm fades. Use potions or skill cooldowns to regenerate quickly. Optimal Builds Featuring Sandstorm Reaper’s Wrath To get the most from this skill, consider integrating it into builds that focus on: Elemental Mastery: Boosts all sand and wind-related effects, amplifying damage and debuff potency. Survivability: Since you’ll be in the thick of combat, invest in defensive talents that increase resistance to physical and elemental damage. Cooldown Efficiency: Lowering cooldowns allows more frequent use, increasing your presence on the battlefield. Best Gear to Complement the Skill Equipment that enhances environmental damage or reduces cooldowns pairs well with Sandstorm Reaper’s Wrath. Look for: Sandstorm Amulets: These increase sandstorm duration and damage. Desert Raider Armor: Provides bonus resistance while using sand-based abilities. Windblade Weaponry: Amplifies elemental attacks tied to wind or sand. Common Mistakes to Avoid Overusing Without Backup: Sandstorm Reaper’s Wrath is powerful but can leave you vulnerable if used without team support or backup. Ignoring Positioning: Standing in the wrong spot can lead to getting overwhelmed, especially against ranged enemies. Neglecting Cooldowns: Without proper cooldown management, you might find yourself unable to use this skill when most needed. PvP Applications In player-versus-player combat, Sandstorm Reaper’s Wrath can disrupt enemy formations and break through defensive lines. Use it to zone opponents, control choke points, and create openings for your team. Remember that skilled players will try to evade or interrupt the skill, so unpredictable timing and mobility are your best friends. Conclusion Mastering Sandstorm Reaper’s Wrath transforms you into a formidable force on Arrakis. By understanding its mechanics, optimizing your build, and cheap Dune Awakening Solari practicing strategic use, you can dominate both PvE and PvP encounters. The desert’s fury is in your hands—unleash it wisely and watch your enemies fall beneath the wrath of the sandstorm.
  10. In the world of RuneScape, few bosses inspire as much awe and [url=https://www.rsgoldfast.com/]RuneScape gold[/url] challenge as Nex, the Ancient Summoner. Introduced in the God Wars Dungeon, Nex stands as one of the most demanding endgame PvE encounters, requiring skill, preparation, and teamwork. Whether you are an aspiring soloist or a group raider, mastering Nex offers some of the best rewards and one of the most thrilling experiences in RuneScape. This guide will walk you through everything you need to conquer Nex — from understanding her mechanics and phases to choosing the best gear, tactics, and strategies for success. Understanding Nex: Lore and Encounter Overview Nex is a powerful Zarosian general who commands the forces of the Zaros faction in the God Wars Dungeon. Players face Nex in a multi-phase fight inside her chamber, each phase requiring quick reflexes and strategic adaptation. The fight involves four distinct phases, each with its own abilities and minions. Your ability to recognize and counter her moves will decide your success or failure. Preparing for the Fight: Gear and Inventory Setup To stand a chance against Nex’s deadly arsenal, you must enter the fight with optimal gear and supplies. Recommended Gear Weapon: A strong melee weapon such as the Abyssal Bludgeon or Noxious Scythe for high damage output. Armor: High defense sets like Torva (melee) or Seasinger (magic) depending on your combat style. Cape: Fire cape, Infernal cape, or Max cape with offensive perks. Amulet: Amulet of Torture (melee) or Amulet of Fury. Ring: Ring of Vigour or Berserker ring (imbued if possible). Boots: Dragon boots or Primordial boots. Inventory Super combat potions or equivalent stat-boosting flasks. Prayer renewal potions or Saradomin brews for healing. Food like Sharks or Rocktails for sustain. Antifire potions and stamina potions. Weapon poison or bleed weapons to boost damage over time. The Four Phases of Nex: Mechanics Breakdown Phase 1: Smoke Phase Nex summons smoke clouds that explode if you step inside them, dealing heavy damage. Use ranged or magic attacks to hit Nex while avoiding the smoke. She casts Smoke Tendrils — avoid the pools that damage over time. Strategy: Stay mobile, kite her around the arena, and use abilities that allow safe damage. Phase 2: Shadow Phase Nex summons shadow minions that drain your stats. She uses Shadow Tendrils — they latch onto players, requiring quick removal. Prioritize killing minions quickly and stay aware of your stat drains. Use Antipoison and stat-boosting prayers as necessary. Phase 3: Blood Phase Nex heals herself by draining blood from the arena. She attacks with Blood Tendrils, which you must sever quickly or suffer damage. Avoid pools of blood that can immobilize you. Team coordination is crucial here to cut tendrils and avoid AoE damage. Phase 4: Ice Phase Nex freezes players in place with Ice Tendrils. Players must quickly destroy tendrils or free frozen teammates. Nex becomes more aggressive and uses freezing attacks. Stay alert, use freedom or break free abilities, and focus on tendril destruction. Combat Tips and Strategy Prayer and Abilities Use Protect from Melee during Nex’s melee attacks and switch to Protect from Magic or Protect from Ranged depending on the phase. Utilize offensive prayers like Piety (melee) or Augury (magic) to increase damage. Abilities like Debilitate reduce Nex’s damage, improving survivability. Use Freedom or Anticipation to break free from tendrils. Positioning Positioning is vital to avoid smoke, shadow, blood, and ice pools. Use safe spots to maximize damage while minimizing incoming attacks. Always be ready to move quickly to sever tendrils or avoid AoEs. Team Coordination When fighting in groups, assign roles such as tendril destroyers, crowd control, and DPS. Communicate about tendril status and health to optimize healing and focus. Keep track of Nex’s health and prepare for phase transitions. Rewards and Progression Defeating Nex yields some of the most coveted loot in RuneScape, including: Zaryte bow Nex set pieces Torva, Pernix, and Virtus armor parts God Wars Dungeon unique drops These rewards can significantly boost your combat power and allow you to tackle even tougher content. Conclusion Mastering Nex, the Ancient Summoner, is a milestone achievement in RuneScape. By understanding her phases, preparing the right gear, and executing careful strategies, you can overcome this formidable boss and claim its legendary rewards. Whether you choose to fight solo or with a team, Nex offers a challenging and rewarding test of your PvE skills. Prepare well, stay focused, and [url=https://www.rsgoldfast.com/]buy OSRS gold[/url] face the wrath of Nex with confidence!
  11. Oh, I just jumped ship when I saw SKGers not caring about game vending platforms (steam, epic etc...) dropping support for old OSs without allowing a way to download and play the games that don't require going through their platforms (like through the browser instead).
  12. Here we are. Subs in .vtt to strategically move them away from on-screen text WEBVTT 00:00:00.300 --> 00:00:04.000 Hello! I have some news on the Stop Killing Games campaign. 00:00:04.400 --> 00:00:06.887 Arguably our biggest news so far. 00:00:07.450 --> 00:00:10.906 Actually, I have two items, so I'll just jump right in. 00:00:11.400 --> 00:00:16.250 The UFC-Que Choisir, a major consumer advocacy group in France, 00:00:16.250 --> 00:00:20.300 is suing Ubisoft over removing <i>The Crew</i> from customers. 00:00:20.733 --> 00:00:22.253 This is a big deal. 00:00:22.750 --> 00:00:26.300 I'll go over why, but let's look at what they have to say. 00:00:26.300 --> 00:00:29.466 Now, the version I'm reading is translated from French, 00:00:29.467 --> 00:00:32.933 so it's possible the wording here may not be 100% accurate, 00:00:32.934 --> 00:00:35.300 but it's good enough for the broad strokes. 00:00:35.300 --> 00:00:39.466 The UFC is suing Ubisoft in the Créteil Judicial Court 00:00:39.467 --> 00:00:42.226 following the shutdown of the servers for <i>The Crew.</i> 00:00:42.226 --> 00:00:45.976 "This unilateral decision rendered the game completely unusable, 00:00:45.977 --> 00:00:49.533 "depriving consumers of any access to a game they had purchased 00:00:49.534 --> 00:00:53.276 "without having ever been informed of any 'expiration date.'" 00:00:53.276 --> 00:00:56.433 You know, I like how they're putting "expiration date" in quotes, 00:00:56.434 --> 00:01:01.298 because games are code. If the storage medium is good, they can last forever. 00:01:01.376 --> 00:01:03.566 Hey, here's a <i>book.</i> 00:01:03.567 --> 00:01:06.976 When do the words in the book expire? 00:01:06.977 --> 00:01:08.533 Similar concept. 00:01:09.076 --> 00:01:12.426 Now, of course, the platform the code runs on can change, 00:01:12.426 --> 00:01:14.751 but that's not the game maker's fault. 00:01:14.751 --> 00:01:17.976 And I know a few out there are saying, "I don't understand. 00:01:17.977 --> 00:01:21.733 "Games can also depend on code not on the customer system, 00:01:21.734 --> 00:01:24.076 "or sometimes even the publisher's." 00:01:24.076 --> 00:01:27.366 Yes, and doing that with no end-of-life plan 00:01:27.367 --> 00:01:30.311 is exactly why Ubisoft is getting into trouble. 00:01:30.676 --> 00:01:31.876 Let's continue. 00:01:32.026 --> 00:01:35.034 "Supported by the 'Stop Killing Games' movement, 00:01:35.721 --> 00:01:40.226 "the association intends to obtain a crucial court ruling on the following question: 00:01:40.226 --> 00:01:44.486 "Does the purchase of a video game, in physical or digital format, 00:01:44.487 --> 00:01:47.666 "allow players to claim, at a minimum, a right of use 00:01:47.667 --> 00:01:51.867 "totally independent of the sole will and authorization of the publisher? 00:01:51.867 --> 00:01:56.466 "For the UFC-Que Choisir, the answer is obviously YES, 00:01:56.467 --> 00:02:01.193 "which is why, through this action, it is demanding the removal of certain unfair terms 00:02:01.194 --> 00:02:05.400 "from Ubisoft's contractual conditions and the cessation of commercial practices 00:02:05.401 --> 00:02:08.693 "that it considers misleading to the detriment of consumers." 00:02:08.693 --> 00:02:14.433 "UFC-Que Choisir believes that by abruptly depriving players of all access to <i>The Crew,</i> 00:02:14.434 --> 00:02:18.020 Ubisoft has violated fundamental consumer rights." 00:02:18.021 --> 00:02:22.300 "It is unacceptable that Ubisoft considers, in its terms and conditions, 00:02:22.301 --> 00:02:26.126 "that players acquire only a simple 'license to use' the game, 00:02:26.126 --> 00:02:29.426 "which would then be revocable at any time by the publisher." 00:02:29.426 --> 00:02:32.976 Exactly. And look at the terms they're contesting: 00:02:32.977 --> 00:02:37.076 "To deny consumers ownership rights over acquired game copies", 00:02:37.076 --> 00:02:39.926 "to remove all access to the game without guarantee 00:02:39.927 --> 00:02:43.576 "of maintaining an alternative mode of operation for consumers". 00:02:43.576 --> 00:02:47.466 Now here's an area that could be a language difference, or has some nuance. 00:02:47.467 --> 00:02:51.633 We of course don't think companies need to maintain <i>anything</i> once support ends. 00:02:51.633 --> 00:02:55.616 They just have to not destroy the damn game in the process. 00:02:55.616 --> 00:02:57.466 I think that's probably what they mean. 00:02:57.466 --> 00:03:00.433 "To make the use of the game subject to online services 00:03:00.434 --> 00:03:03.400 "that may be interrupted at any time by the publisher", 00:03:03.401 --> 00:03:07.100 and "to exclude any refund of sums credited by consumers 00:03:07.101 --> 00:03:09.466 "to their Ubisoft electronic wallet." 00:03:09.466 --> 00:03:11.966 Okay, the wallet part I'm a little unclear on, 00:03:11.967 --> 00:03:16.166 since that sounds like an additional issue Ubisoft might be in trouble with. 00:03:16.167 --> 00:03:18.233 The wording on this sounds like Ubisoft might have been 00:03:18.234 --> 00:03:21.567 fleecing people another way with digital wallets <i>also.</i> 00:03:22.366 --> 00:03:24.733 That's not Stop Killing Games' issue, 00:03:24.734 --> 00:03:29.800 but we're certainly not complaining if the UFC is adding that to their lawsuit. 00:03:29.800 --> 00:03:33.066 What I find more interesting is the part above that, 00:03:33.066 --> 00:03:35.966 about not making the game depend on online services 00:03:35.967 --> 00:03:38.646 that can be turned off in the first place. 00:03:38.647 --> 00:03:41.646 That's a more radical stance than what I've been aiming for. 00:03:41.647 --> 00:03:43.406 Not because I'm against it, 00:03:43.407 --> 00:03:48.646 but because this has been such an uphill battle for us every step of the way. 00:03:48.647 --> 00:03:54.016 So I wanted to maximize our odds of success, and that's an even bigger ask. 00:03:54.536 --> 00:04:00.166 So thank you, UFC, for pushing the Overton window past where <i>I</i> am. 00:04:00.167 --> 00:04:02.901 With a lawsuit no less. 00:04:02.901 --> 00:04:07.066 I've seen many comments similar to this before, saying publishers shouldn't 00:04:07.067 --> 00:04:10.971 make games require a connection to them if they don't need to. 00:04:11.100 --> 00:04:13.100 line:20% I've never pushed that argument, 00:04:13.101 --> 00:04:18.026 line:20% because you can bet publishers will insist they always "need to" 00:04:18.027 --> 00:04:20.066 line:20% for every game they do it in. 00:04:20.067 --> 00:04:23.000 line:20% They could just argue that they need it to prevent piracy, 00:04:23.001 --> 00:04:27.733 or to ensure their microtransactions aren't enabled by users offline. 00:04:27.733 --> 00:04:32.326 Well, under that logic, they "need" to make the game connect to them. 00:04:32.920 --> 00:04:36.113 And on the flip side, I can't think of any game 00:04:36.114 --> 00:04:38.833 that "needs" to be hosted by the publisher 00:04:38.834 --> 00:04:41.890 if the customer has access to the right software. 00:04:41.890 --> 00:04:47.533 I mean, there are customer-hosted private servers for multiple MMORPGs today, 00:04:47.533 --> 00:04:50.433 some of which can host thousands of players. 00:04:50.583 --> 00:04:54.083 So that line of argument always felt more like a values clash, 00:04:54.083 --> 00:04:56.666 and was too subjective for me to run with it. 00:04:56.667 --> 00:05:00.566 But hell, if the UFC wants to, in court, great. 00:05:01.219 --> 00:05:03.493 "Beyond these contractual clauses, 00:05:03.494 --> 00:05:06.700 "[the UFC] also points to misleading commercial practices 00:05:06.701 --> 00:05:08.984 "surrounding the sale of the game <i>The Crew:</i> 00:05:08.997 --> 00:05:10.900 "players were never fairly informed 00:05:10.901 --> 00:05:15.083 "about the potentially temporary nature of access to the game they were buying." 00:05:15.083 --> 00:05:19.283 Okay, this is the whole "labeling" argument, which I'm not a fan of. 00:05:19.283 --> 00:05:22.474 Now you might think, "Well, isn't this still pro-consumer?" 00:05:22.474 --> 00:05:24.693 Sort of. Here's the thing. 00:05:24.694 --> 00:05:26.400 If we solve <i>this,</i> 00:05:26.401 --> 00:05:29.433 removing all access to the game without any guarantee 00:05:29.434 --> 00:05:33.233 of maintaining an alternative mode of operation for consumers, 00:05:33.233 --> 00:05:37.983 then we don't <i>need</i> clear labeling, because then the problem isn't even present anymore. 00:05:37.984 --> 00:05:42.033 To their credit, Ubisoft <i>did</i> tell you they could screw you at any time 00:05:42.034 --> 00:05:44.934 when they sold <i>The Crew,</i> and many other games. 00:05:45.283 --> 00:05:48.800 Our issue has never been that they didn't say that clearly enough, 00:05:48.801 --> 00:05:52.183 but that they're engaged in this practice in the first place. 00:05:52.183 --> 00:05:55.133 But I don't know French legal procedures, 00:05:55.133 --> 00:05:58.083 so maybe this is just to buttress the larger issues 00:05:58.083 --> 00:06:00.533 to show they're screwing people every which way, 00:06:00.534 --> 00:06:02.983 and this wasn't just some honest mistake. 00:06:03.383 --> 00:06:06.766 "Through this legal action, UFC-Que Choisir 00:06:06.767 --> 00:06:09.793 "intends to put an end to these harmful practices, 00:06:09.794 --> 00:06:12.533 "obtain the removal of the disputed clauses, 00:06:12.533 --> 00:06:16.966 "and to have the harm done to the collective interests of consumers recognized." 00:06:16.966 --> 00:06:19.300 This is such a breath of fresh air. 00:06:19.883 --> 00:06:23.233 Over the years, I've gotten tired of hearing the argument 00:06:23.233 --> 00:06:25.983 that buying a game entitles you to nothing, 00:06:25.984 --> 00:06:27.733 and the only problem with that 00:06:27.734 --> 00:06:32.233 is that people aren't being told <i>clearly</i> that they're entitled to nothing. 00:06:32.233 --> 00:06:34.133 How about <i>no?</i> 00:06:34.133 --> 00:06:36.813 How about we just enforce basic rights 00:06:36.814 --> 00:06:41.358 and stop publishers from selling games based on scam business practices? 00:06:41.833 --> 00:06:43.183 Oh, and look at this: 00:06:43.183 --> 00:06:47.633 "The case of <i>The Crew</i> illustrates a worrying trend in the video game market. 00:06:47.634 --> 00:06:50.766 "more and more games require a constant internet connection, 00:06:50.767 --> 00:06:55.500 "allowing publishers to remotely disable games legitimately purchased by consumers 00:06:55.501 --> 00:06:58.866 "without justification or alternative solutions." 00:06:58.867 --> 00:07:00.633 Damn <i>straight</i>. 00:07:00.634 --> 00:07:04.253 "This trend is also accompanied by other problematic issues, 00:07:04.254 --> 00:07:09.983 "such as the growing reliance on paid [DLC] and arbitrary banning of user accounts." 00:07:09.984 --> 00:07:15.233 Look at the UFC pushing that Overton window! Swinging for the fences! 00:07:15.233 --> 00:07:18.433 Then they go on to point out how they've been bros in the past, 00:07:18.434 --> 00:07:24.133 taking on unjust bans and planned obsolescence of Nintendo Switch controllers. 00:07:24.133 --> 00:07:28.033 Then they talk about how this is a problem for preservation, and end it with: 00:07:28.034 --> 00:07:30.120 "a game purchased by a consumer 00:07:30.121 --> 00:07:33.971 "cannot literally disappear at the sole whim of its publisher." 00:07:33.978 --> 00:07:36.280 Well, unfortunately, it can, 00:07:36.281 --> 00:07:39.865 but it shouldn't, and that's what we're trying to change. 00:07:40.033 --> 00:07:42.083 But that is <i>outstanding.</i> 00:07:42.083 --> 00:07:45.859 I know I sure appreciate the UFC taking this issue to court. 00:07:46.383 --> 00:07:51.503 Now, I confess, I've actually known this was coming for a while now, over a year. 00:07:52.233 --> 00:07:56.083 I didn't know when, but I was told not to say anything about it 00:07:56.083 --> 00:07:58.633 until it was official, so I didn't. 00:07:59.083 --> 00:08:03.051 All I was allowed to say was that the UFC <i>might</i> look into this. 00:08:03.333 --> 00:08:04.983 Well, they did. 00:08:05.389 --> 00:08:07.346 Now I'm very happy about this, 00:08:07.347 --> 00:08:12.283 because I think this is actually the first concrete action to come out of the campaign. 00:08:12.283 --> 00:08:15.333 I mean, sure, we've done government petitions, 00:08:15.333 --> 00:08:18.433 gotten the signatures for the European Citizens' Initiative, 00:08:18.433 --> 00:08:22.458 filed complaints to consumer agencies, talked to the EU Commission, 00:08:22.458 --> 00:08:25.850 but that's all just been asking for help, essentially. 00:08:25.883 --> 00:08:27.323 This is different. 00:08:27.533 --> 00:08:32.589 This is pressing charges against the company for breaking the law on this issue. 00:08:33.232 --> 00:08:35.833 Now, some may point out that Ubisoft already 00:08:35.834 --> 00:08:39.382 had another lawsuit going on over <i>The Crew</i> in California, 00:08:39.383 --> 00:08:43.000 but I've said before in another video, that wasn't us, 00:08:43.001 --> 00:08:47.033 and even if that one's successful, I think it will be on a technicality, 00:08:47.034 --> 00:08:49.983 and won't prevent future games from being destroyed. 00:08:49.984 --> 00:08:55.800 This one from the UFC, however, is the real deal, and could shift industry behavior. 00:08:55.801 --> 00:08:58.268 And it's taken two years to get here. 00:08:58.883 --> 00:09:04.433 I see all this like planting seeds, and this is the first sprout to come out of the soil. 00:09:04.433 --> 00:09:07.166 Well, we've been planting a lot of seeds. 00:09:07.333 --> 00:09:11.483 It's worth mentioning that our complaints sent to the DGCCRF earlier, 00:09:11.483 --> 00:09:15.963 France's consumer protection agency, are completely separate from this. 00:09:16.383 --> 00:09:19.050 The decision from them is still ongoing, 00:09:19.183 --> 00:09:22.683 so Ubisoft might be facing three lawsuits for all I know. 00:09:22.683 --> 00:09:23.883 Or maybe more! 00:09:24.333 --> 00:09:27.320 France's consumer laws are not radically different 00:09:27.321 --> 00:09:30.483 from many other countries across the European Union. 00:09:30.483 --> 00:09:32.913 So while they're certainly leading the charge, 00:09:32.913 --> 00:09:36.580 it's possible we could see penalties emerging down the line for publishers 00:09:36.581 --> 00:09:42.183 engaged in this practice from Germany, Spain, Sweden, Poland, and so on. 00:09:42.183 --> 00:09:45.300 Now, that's all going to take a lot of time and organization, 00:09:45.300 --> 00:09:48.820 but this is a big step towards getting the law enforced. 00:09:48.820 --> 00:09:53.684 The more attention and transparency this issue gets, the better it is for us. 00:09:54.283 --> 00:09:58.383 Yeah, that's one area where we disagree with the industry a little bit. 00:09:58.383 --> 00:10:01.066 We don't think it's <i>customers</i> that are the ones that need to be 00:10:01.067 --> 00:10:03.833 better informed about what publishers are doing. 00:10:03.833 --> 00:10:09.145 We think it's judges and regulators that should be more clearly informed about that. 00:10:09.183 --> 00:10:11.833 And it's worth mentioning, this is all happening at a time 00:10:11.834 --> 00:10:15.866 where we still have no new law on the issue of game destruction. 00:10:16.008 --> 00:10:21.166 We're certainly trying to do that also, since that will make this all go faster and easier, 00:10:21.167 --> 00:10:25.686 but Ubisoft is getting sued on the grounds of existing law in France. 00:10:26.183 --> 00:10:28.080 Which means if they're found guilty, 00:10:28.081 --> 00:10:32.333 that could open up the door for the rest of the industry engaged in this practice. 00:10:32.333 --> 00:10:37.773 Believe it or not, our goal isn't actually to dogpile on Ubisoft. That's coincidental. 00:10:38.133 --> 00:10:42.533 They just made themselves the perfect target to get the ball rolling out of all of this. 00:10:42.534 --> 00:10:45.583 It's a much bigger issue across the video games industry. 00:10:45.583 --> 00:10:49.673 Ironically, Ubisoft themselves released server source code 00:10:49.674 --> 00:10:52.406 to <i>World in Conflict</i> after shutdown, 00:10:52.407 --> 00:10:57.033 preserving its online multiplayer, which is above and beyond what we're asking for. 00:10:57.033 --> 00:10:59.400 So sometimes they're going the extra distance 00:10:59.401 --> 00:11:02.813 by doing more than anyone expects for preservation, 00:11:02.814 --> 00:11:05.700 and other times they're likely breaking the law 00:11:05.701 --> 00:11:08.983 in order to not do the bare minimum of responsibility. 00:11:09.483 --> 00:11:12.783 It's just kind of chaotic behavior, really. 00:11:12.783 --> 00:11:15.033 Anyway, another reason I'm happy about this, 00:11:15.034 --> 00:11:18.283 is this kind of validates what I've been saying for years now. 00:11:18.283 --> 00:11:21.983 That the practice of game destruction is so consumer-hostile, 00:11:21.984 --> 00:11:25.568 I really think it does violate the law in many countries. 00:11:25.633 --> 00:11:27.073 Especially France! 00:11:27.483 --> 00:11:30.406 However, I'm still just a chump YouTuber, 00:11:30.407 --> 00:11:34.183 so I realize I don't have the credibility for many people to believe that. 00:11:34.183 --> 00:11:35.916 Even when I have evidence. 00:11:36.133 --> 00:11:39.283 But the UFC's actions speak volumes. 00:11:39.283 --> 00:11:41.400 They never would have started a lawsuit 00:11:41.401 --> 00:11:44.183 if they didn't think there was a legal basis for it. 00:11:44.183 --> 00:11:47.083 Now gamers are not known for their patience. 00:11:47.733 --> 00:11:52.021 Except maybe <i>Half-Life</i> or <i>Star Citizen</i> fans. They're pretty patient. 00:11:52.596 --> 00:11:57.066 So I can understand why there's skepticism of Stop Killing Games accomplishing things, 00:11:57.067 --> 00:11:59.267 because it has taken a long time. 00:11:59.533 --> 00:12:03.949 Government moves slowly, but things are moving, and this is the proof. 00:12:04.733 --> 00:12:08.083 I really think we're going to win this in the long term. 00:12:08.083 --> 00:12:10.260 Okay, so that's the first news. 00:12:10.619 --> 00:12:13.200 The other news is the European Citizens' Initiative 00:12:13.201 --> 00:12:17.425 will be having its official hearing in EU Parliament on April 16th. 00:12:18.133 --> 00:12:22.166 Now as I understand it, we already have Parliament majority support. 00:12:22.167 --> 00:12:24.683 But this is going to boost it even more. 00:12:24.683 --> 00:12:26.866 And to escalate things on my end, 00:12:26.867 --> 00:12:30.515 apparently I'm going to be invited to attend as a speaker. 00:12:31.383 --> 00:12:35.300 Now I never even knew that was an option until a few days ago. 00:12:35.301 --> 00:12:38.333 I thought at most all I could be was an observer. 00:12:38.333 --> 00:12:41.083 I wasn't even sure if there was a point in me attending. 00:12:41.083 --> 00:12:44.731 But no, apparently the Initiative wants me to speak there. 00:12:45.233 --> 00:12:47.100 I do not know how much. 00:12:47.533 --> 00:12:49.733 There will be lawyers and developers there, 00:12:49.734 --> 00:12:53.083 so I don't think I'll have to speak on anything too specialized. 00:12:53.083 --> 00:12:57.947 If I had to guess, I think they want me to tag along for miscellaneous stuff. 00:12:58.133 --> 00:13:03.253 I'd say the things I have going for me on this are I'm <i>very</i> aware of the problem, 00:13:03.383 --> 00:13:07.283 and I've probably heard every opposition argument under the sun 00:13:07.283 --> 00:13:11.233 as to why companies should be allowed to destroy games you've paid for. 00:13:11.233 --> 00:13:13.933 I can swat that stuff down all day. 00:13:14.733 --> 00:13:19.033 So I guess I'm going to EU Parliament in a few weeks. 00:13:19.033 --> 00:13:22.566 Oh yeah, I'm sure I'll look like I belong there. 00:13:23.532 --> 00:13:26.313 Now later that day there's going to be another press conference. 00:13:26.314 --> 00:13:28.647 This one may be bigger than before. 00:13:29.033 --> 00:13:32.633 And I've been asked to mention Alderaan Games is helping to sponsor that, 00:13:32.634 --> 00:13:34.666 which makes <i>Path of Titans.</i> 00:13:34.667 --> 00:13:38.984 They're not sponsoring this video, though. I'm saying this voluntarily. 00:13:38.984 --> 00:13:42.866 And I should mention we've also had help before from the game <i>Torn.</i> 00:13:42.866 --> 00:13:46.115 I like the irony that both of these are online games, 00:13:46.115 --> 00:13:49.865 so clearly <i>they</i> think they can handle an end-of-life plan. 00:13:49.866 --> 00:13:53.740 And joining with Stop Killing Games is DoesItPlay.org, 00:13:53.753 --> 00:13:56.233 which might be the best index around for determining 00:13:56.234 --> 00:13:58.878 how safe physical copies of games are. 00:13:59.215 --> 00:14:02.673 I'll almost certainly be talking at the press conference. 00:14:02.674 --> 00:14:07.858 I might even be the host. It depends on if we can find someone better before then. 00:14:07.915 --> 00:14:12.865 Speaking of which, if you're a streamer, YouTuber, or just press in general, 00:14:12.889 --> 00:14:18.314 and you would like to attend, either in person or online, let us know. 00:14:18.315 --> 00:14:21.965 You'll likely be able to ask questions and be part of the conversation. 00:14:21.965 --> 00:14:25.865 line:20% Contact this email for Stop Killing Games. 00:14:25.866 --> 00:14:28.615 line:20% This is a new one being set up by the NGO. 00:14:28.615 --> 00:14:31.215 line:20% Anything official, you should send here. 00:14:31.415 --> 00:14:34.480 line:20% Now the website, StopKillingGames.com, 00:14:34.481 --> 00:14:37.766 line:20% still has my personal mail, since that's left over from the beginning, 00:14:37.767 --> 00:14:39.900 line:20% where I had to play the role of lighthouse keeper, 00:14:39.901 --> 00:14:42.115 line:20% otherwise things would have fallen apart. 00:14:42.115 --> 00:14:45.193 line:20% You can still contact me personally about whatever, 00:14:45.194 --> 00:14:48.300 line:20% but anything specifically for the Stop Killing Games movement 00:14:48.301 --> 00:14:50.486 line:20% should be sent to the new address. 00:14:50.487 --> 00:14:52.060 Speaking of which, 00:14:52.061 --> 00:14:56.133 the website, as it is now, is going to be retired in the near future, 00:14:56.134 --> 00:14:58.800 as it's mostly served its purpose on my end. 00:14:58.800 --> 00:15:01.467 You're welcome to back it up if you want. 00:15:01.467 --> 00:15:05.866 I intend to hand it over to the NGO for them to do whatever they want with it. 00:15:05.866 --> 00:15:08.033 I don't even know all their plans, 00:15:08.034 --> 00:15:11.066 but I hope watchdog action, similar to what we do with <i>The Crew,</i> 00:15:11.067 --> 00:15:13.200 is part of it in the future for other games. 00:15:14.200 --> 00:15:15.813 Alright, that's it. 00:15:15.814 --> 00:15:20.413 Ubisoft is getting sued, and I have a bunch of homework to do for EU Parliament. 00:15:20.414 --> 00:15:21.614 See ya!
  13. Damn, you figured it out. You weren't supposed to do that. Now we need to gift you a pager that you'll pay a subscription for. Nah, just looking at patterns. And forums have inherent limitations that social media does not. I already said that. Just because a few will remain, doesn't mean the vast majority won't die. There are still BBS running today, doesn't mean it's not effectively dead. No hostility intended. (at least from my end) Arguments from opposing views is literally how you find the truth in the middle, and there's no other way to do it within the realm of human experience.
  14. What "us" are you referring to?
  15. You cannot stop me... Lord Im_CIA will become more powerful than either of us
  16. Kerdios is tacitly in league with BTG for Last Post rat race. Based on their rhetoric in the "Serious" section, I suspect that they are Mossad assets, and they're probably also getting sponsored by Ubisoft- hence their general ambivalence towards things shutting down. You're instilling uniformity where there is none. BBS had inherent limitations that forums do not. They are not as rewarding as social media, as you say, but there is a niche for them You can still do that, King
  17. Yesterday
  18. There actually is no formal dress code for the European Parliament
  19. Please get a haircut and a proper suit before appearing in the EU parliament. It's fine to spent crowdsourced money on that. Some people, and thus possibly politicians, care about appearances. However ridiculous that may sound to neurodivergent people like us, it is the state of the world. People that care about appearances, will listen to your arguments better if you present yourself well. Consider it please, the movement needs every tiny bit of push. Your hair will grow back.
  20. Big Stop Killing Games news! Ubisoft is getting sued by heavyweight consumer protection group UFC-Que Choisir in France! This is EXACTLY the kind of action we've been working towards to eventually stop publishers from destroying customer copies of video games. Also, I'm going to Parliament! This is a blog post. To read the original post, please click here »
  21. Big Stop Killing Games news! Ubisoft is getting sued by heavyweight consumer protection group UFC-Que Choisir in France! This is EXACTLY the kind of action we've been working towards to eventually stop publishers from destroying customer copies of video games. Also, I'm going to Parliament!
  22. I want the forums to stay, at least to be archived or to be used as a place to submit subs. This place would be a good bulwark against enshittification and platform centralization if there's a way to combat the Temu spam effectively. Where will people go once discord and reddit require you to scan your face or ID to use their sites? Also, what is it with kerdios and BTG being argumentative?
  23. Not really. Just as Bulletin Boards died out, so to are forums. Note, not all of the old BBs are gone, so to will some forums remain, but as long as the human attention span remains finite, there will never be anywhere near enough draw to keep people on forums in lieu of social media sites. There are only so many hours in the day, and social media gives a much bigger dose of brain happy juices than forums do.
  24. I don't remember mentioning things? What things did I mention? Were they secret things?
  25. yes, you quite obviously did, also this cannot be a winning post because I already abdicated from the race
  26. So what you are saying is we should all file a GCRP data deletion request so our data won't be kept at ross's indefinitely after the forum closes. Am I right?
  1. Load more activity
×
×
  • Create New...

This website uses cookies, as do most websites since the 90s. By using this site, you consent to cookies. We have to say this or we get in trouble. Learn more.