• WWW.TECHRADAR.COM
    NYT Connections hints and answers for Tuesday, February 18 (game #618)
    Looking for NYT Connections answers and hints? Here's all you need to know to solve today's game, plus my commentary on the puzzles.
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  • BEFORESANDAFTERS.COM
    The river and 1.2 petabytes of disk space
    How the emotional Raka scene from Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes was made. An excerpt from befores & afters magazine.Raka, Noa and Mae are confronted by Proximus muscle at a river crossing in Wes Balls Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes. The FX simulations in that sequence would require 1.2 petabytes (1.2 billion megabytes) of disk space. To build up that scene, animation started with the original performance capture, some of which was carried out in partial sets with flowing water.Our work was a lot of back and forth with what shots retained plate elements for the water and what would ultimately be CG, relates animation supervisor Paul Story. We would be trying to keep as much of what the plate performance was there.A great example of that is a close-up shot where Raka pushes Mae up out of the water, advises VFX supervisor Erik Winquist. Thats the performance take. Special effects provided us with a small river tank that had this current flowing that they could control. Freya and Peter are there in that river flow. We were able to use Freya, paint out Peter, and replace him with CG, of course, but the water that was actually pushing up against Peters chest in his wetsuit that he was wearing is in the movie. It was great to actually take advantage of the plate water.Although Wt FX had gone through a major R&D phase for Avatar: The Way of Water to develop its Loki state machine for coupled fluid simulations, the river sequence in Kingdom presented some different challenges, in particular, that the water was of a nasty sediment-filled and dirt and debris type, with much surface foam. For the purposes of efficiency and flexibility, we were leaning less on the state machine approach and bringing back in some of the older ways of working on water sims, notes Winquist. One thing wed do is run a primary sim at low-res first that would give Paul and his team a really low-res mesh that they could at least animate to. So for example, theyd translate Peter as Raka, who was sitting in an office chair getting pulled around on a mocap stage, and work that into a very low-res sim. In the meantime, the FX team would direct the flow and get a rough version of that in front of Wes. This essentially involved art directing the current and camera, specifies Winquist. Does the camera dip under for a moment and come back over? What does that mean for having to play water sheeting down the lens? Once we had that art directed river in low-res, animation could go off and start animating apes against that current. Then also our FX team could go in and start looking at up-resing that into a much higher resolution sim.The next steps were a back and forth of animation animated to a low-res mesh. The benefit is that the animation done using the low-res mesh matches well to and integrates with the subsequent high-res fluid simulations, although tweaking is always required. Once these steps occur, the creatures team would take the flow fields of the simulation to affect the hair of the apes.For that were using Loki for the hair of the creatures and water to all interact, says Winquist. Then we take the creature bakes, bring them back into the sim, and then FX has to go in and do a super high-resolution, thin-film simulation against the hairs, because now we need to make sure that were taking into account volume preservation of the water. If they jump out of the water, we also need to show that the water is now starting to drain out of their hair.To help with simulating Rakas complex fur in its wet state, visual effects supervisor Stephen Unterfranz pitched the idea of placing the digital character in the water, running a simulation and seeing what would happen to the fur and then sculpting a bespoke groom just for use when he is in the water. It helped with establishing a characteristic parted hair look on the fur of Rakas arm and body, owing to the pressure of the rushing water.issue #27 Kingdom of the Planet of the ApesInterestingly, Rakas fall into the raging rapids of the river was something Wt FX had to revisit a couple of times, owing to a change in the line the character delivers. It was originally filmed in the Sydney backlot set with the scripted line of The work continues, said to Noa. Wes came to the realization that that was the wrong thing for that character to say as his last words, relates Winquist. The switch to Together. Strong. essentially echoes the Apes. Together. Strong. line from from Caesar, it lands so much harder as the last thing were going to hear from this mentor character.With only around a month before delivery, Macon re-delivered the line by simply recording himself on video on his iPhone. The audio from that is actually whats in the movie, reveals Winquist. It really came down to an animator having to look at what we were seeing from that iPhone footage and put that in there. It was a, My God, this is kind of devastating, this moment.The post The river and 1.2 petabytes of disk space appeared first on befores & afters.
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  • WWW.FASTCOMPANY.COM
    Luigi Mangione launches a new website as he awaits his murder trial
    Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the alleged murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, is in prison awaiting trial. But he still managed to launch a new website, along with his first official statement since his arrest, via his legal team.The message stated that Mangione, who is being held at Brooklyns Metropolitan Detention Center, has been overwhelmed by and grateful for the support hes received in the form of letters from those who have been moved by his story.Although Mangione is charged with Thompsons murder, some Americans who are frustrated with the state of the health insurance industry have celebrated Mangione as a folk hero. Not long manhunt for the shooter began, there were memes, donations, merchandise, and conversations over the potential of copycats.Powerfully, this support has transcended political, racial, and even class divisions, as mail has flooded MDC from across the country, and around the globe, said Mangione in the statement. While it is impossible for me to reply to most letters, please know that I read every one that I receive. Thank you again to everyone who took the time to write. I look forward to hearing more in the future.Mangiones legal team also shared a note on the site, explaining why they felt the need to create the outlet. Due to the extraordinary volume of inquiries and outpouring of support, this site was created and is maintained by Luigi Mangiones New York legal defense team to provide answers to frequently asked questions, accurate information about his cases, and dispel misinformation, the note read. The intent is to share factual information regarding the unprecedented, multiple prosecutions against him.Per the sites FAQ page, Mangiones team asked that supporters limit the number of certain items they are sending, such as photos. Luigi is allowed to receive photos via Shutterfly and FreePrints in accordance with mail procedures while in custody, the section explains, noting Mangione has received many photos.Due to the volume of photos, they could take longer than usual to be screened and shared. Luigi appreciates the photos that are sent and kindly asks that people send no more than five photos at a time. Please note that every photo that is received is screened and reviewed by law enforcement. It also asked that supporters temporarily refrain from sending books, given a large number have already been sent.The site also includes a link to a Give Send Go crowdfunding website, which supporters have been donating to in order to help pay for the suspects legal fees. As of Monday afternoon, the donations topped $475,000.Last week, the accuseds attorney, Karen Friedman Agnifilo told ABC News, Luigi is aware of the fund and very much appreciates the outpouring of support. Agnifilo continued, My client plans on utilizing it to fight all three of the unprecedented cases against him.Mangione has pleaded not guilty to the charges, which include first-degree murder, an act of terrorism, criminal possession of a weapon and forgery by using a fake ID. His next court appearance is scheduled for February 21 in Manhattan.
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  • WWW.FASTCOMPANY.COM
    What new DOGE firings at the FDA could mean for food safety and medical devices
    The Trump administrations effort toslash the size of the federal workforcereached theFood and Drug Administrationthis weekend, as recently hired employees who review the safety of food ingredients, medical devices, and other products were fired.Probationary employeesacross the FDA received notices Saturday evening that their jobs were being eliminated, according to three FDA staffers who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly.The total number of positions eliminated was not clear Sunday, but the firings appeared to focus on employees in the agencys centers for food, medical devices, and tobacco productswhich includes oversight of electronic cigarettes. It was not clear whether FDA employees who review drugs were exempted.On Friday, some officials expected theU.S. Department of Health and Human Servicesto fire 5,200 probationary employees across its agencies, according to an audio recording of a National Institutes of Health department meeting. HHS oversees NIH, FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among other things.People who spoke with the AP on condition of anonymity on Friday said the number of probationary employees to be laid off at the CDC would total nearly 1,300. But as of early Sunday afternoon, about 700 people had received notices, according to three people who spoke on condition on anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly. They said none of the CDC layoffs affected the young doctors and researchers who track diseases in whats known as the Epidemic Intelligence Service.The FDA is headquartered in the Maryland suburbs outside Washington and employs nearly 20,000 people. Its long been a target ofnewly sworn-in health secretary Robert Kennedy Jr., who last year accused the agency of waging a war on public health for not approving unproven treatments such as psychedelics, stem cells and chelation therapy.Kennedy also has called for eliminating thousands of chemicals and colorings from U.S. foods. But the cuts at FDA include staffers responsible for reviewing the safety of new food additives and ingredients, according to an FDA staffer familiar with the firings.An HHS spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment Sunday afternoon.Nearly half of the FDAs $6.9 billion budget comes from fees paid by companies the agency regulates, including drug and medical device makers, which allows the agency to hire extra scientists to swiftly review products. Eliminating those positions will not reduce government spending.A former FDA official said cutting recent hires could backfire, eliminating staffers who tend to be younger and have more up-to-date technical skills. The FDAs workforce skews toward older workers who have spent one or two decades at the agency, and the Government Accountability Office noted in 2022 that the FDA has historically faced challenges in recruiting and retaining staff due to better money in the private sector.You want to bring in new blood, said Peter Pitts, a former FDA associate commissioner under President George W. Bush. You want people with new ideas, greater enthusiasm and the latest thinking in terms of technology.Mitch Zeller, former FDA director for tobacco, said the firings are a way to demoralize and undermine the spirit of the federal workforce.The combined effect of what theyre trying to do is going to destroy the ability to recruit and retain talent, Zeller said.The FDAs inspection force has been particularly strained in recent years after a wave of departures during the COVID-19 pandemic, and many of the agencys current inspectors are recent hires. It was not immediately clear whether those employees were exempted.FDA inspectors are responsible for overseeing thousands of food, drug, tobacco and medical device facilities worldwide, though the APreported last year that the agency faced a backlog of roughly 2,000 uninspected drug facilitiesthat hadnt been visited since before the pandemic.The agencys inspection force have also been criticized for not moving faster to catch recent problems involving infant formula, baby food and eyedrops.By Matthew Perrone, AP Health Writer. AP Medical Writer Mike Stobbe contributed to this report.___The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
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  • WWW.YANKODESIGN.COM
    Kia EV4 Design and Technology: An Affordable Path to the Future of Electric Driving
    Kias EV4 is making waves in the $30,000$40,000 electric vehicle segment by blending innovative design, sustainable materials, and cutting-edge electric technology. Revealed ahead of its official debut at Kias 2025 EV Day, both the sedan and hatchback variants capture the brands Opposites United philosophy, merging performance with practicality and eco-conscious engineering to challenge competitors like Teslas Model 3.Designer: KiaThe EV4s launch marks a pivotal moment for Kia as it redefines what drivers can expect from a budget-friendly yet technologically advanced EV. By focusing on harmonizing striking aesthetics and sustainable innovation, Kia has created a vehicle that stands apart in a crowded market.Innovative Exterior and Design PhilosophyThe exterior design of the EV4 exemplifies a refined balance of contrast. The sedan version adopts a bold long-tail silhouette inspired by classic sports cars, featuring a low-slung nose, an elongated rear overhang, and a distinctive two-piece roof spoiler that minimizes aerodynamic drag. Its front fasciawith vertical LED headlights, a blacked-out grille panel, and the signature Star Map lightingreinforces Kias evolving Tiger Face identity, while sharp character lines and 19-inch triangular-motif wheels exude motion even when the car is at rest.In contrast, the hatchback variant offers a versatile profile without sacrificing style. Its steeply raked rear window, integrated rooftop spoiler, and vertical LED taillights create a modern, urban appeal enhanced by geometric patterns on the lower body panels. Black C-pillars produce a striking floating roof effect and shared wing-shaped bumpers on the GT-Line trimaccented by aggressive front intakes and gloss-black detailsensure that both models communicate a unified design language. This Opposites United approach, championed by designer Karim Habib, blends technical precision with organic curves to establish the EV4 as a new typology in the compact EV market.Sustainable Interior and Driver-Centric TechnologyInside, the EV4 continues its innovative streak by merging futuristic technology with eco-friendly materials. The cabin centers on a panoramic 12.3-inch widescreen display that integrates the digital cluster and infotainment system, flanked by a 5.3-inch climate control touchpad. Kias ccNC (connected car Navigation Cockpit) software enhances the driving experience with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and even ChatGPT-powered voice commands, ensuring that drivers remain connected in an intuitive manner.Sustainability is woven into the very fabric of interior design. Kia has partnered with Swiss firm Bcomp to integrate ampliTexa flax-based compositeinto key areas such as seat backs, console tables, and door panels. This advancement reduces component weight by 40% compared to conventional plastics while cutting CO emissions by 85%. Additionally, the use of 3D-knit covers crafted from recycled PET yarn eliminates fabric waste, and natural dyes from madder roots and walnut shells lend the recycled cotton upholstery an earthy palette. Complementing these sustainable features, the introduction of Mind Modes allows drivers to customize ambient lighting, ventilation, and interface graphics, offering a tailored experience that can shift from high-energy Perform to calming Serenity.Performance, Charging, and Market PositioningThe EV4 is built on Hyundais 400V E-GMP platform, which supports both single-motor rear-wheel drive and dual-motor all-wheel drive configurations. Early estimates indicate that the base model produces 201 hp (150 kW) and accelerates from 060 mph in 6.9 seconds, while the dual-motor variant offers 282 hp (210 kW) with a 5.8-second sprint. The GT-Line trim may further enhance the driving dynamics with a performance-tuned suspension and a brake-by-wire system, ensuring that the EV4 delivers both efficiency and excitement.Battery and charging capabilities further underscore the EV4s appeal. Buyers can choose between a 58.3 kWh batteryoffering roughly 250 miles (EPA) or 300 miles (WLTP)or an 81.4 kWh option that extends the range to approximately 310 miles (EPA) or 375 miles (WLTP). The 400V architecture supports a 150 kW DC fast charging system, which can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes, while an 11 kW AC charger is available for overnight charging. Priced between $35,000 and $45,000, the EV4 is positioned to undercut the Tesla Model 3, making it an attractive option for European buyers who favor the hatchbacks versatility and U.S. drivers drawn to the sedans sporty design. Kias use of a modular production platform further drives cost efficiency, an essential factor in the competitive budget EV market.Conclusion: Redefining the Affordable Electric VehicleKias EV4 is a bold statement in design, sustainability, and performance. By integrating customizable Mind Modes that enhance driver engagement, utilizing bio-sourced materials to reduce environmental impact, and delivering specifications that rival higher-priced competitorsall at a 15% lower price pointKia sets a new benchmark for affordable EVs.With its official launch set for February 24, the EV4 is poised to redefine expectations for sub-$40,000 electric vehicles on a global scale. This comprehensive approach not only challenges established players in the market but also paves the way for a future where advanced technology and sustainability go hand in hand.The post Kia EV4 Design and Technology: An Affordable Path to the Future of Electric Driving first appeared on Yanko Design.
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  • WWW.YANKODESIGN.COM
    This Dual-Blade Folding Knife With Damascus CuMai Steel is So Stunning, You Wont Want to Use It
    Folding knives were first invented for compactness and safety this one adds variety to the mix too. Meet the 2 Blade Wharncliffe Trapper a folding knife that houses not one, but two blades. Open the one you need, use it, and fold it right back in once youre done. Aside from the minor advantages that each blades individual shape provides, the only overarching benefit of such a knife is that its ridiculously cool and if I werent typing this article right now, Id be throwing money at my screen.Trapper knives were arguably the first multitools, designed for fur trappers and hunters who needed a versatile, reliable tool for processing game in the field. Traditionally featuring two bladesa clip point and a spey bladethese knives were perfect for skinning, slicing, and general utility work. The clip-point blade offered precision for detailed cutting, while the spey blade, with its rounded tip, was ideal for skinning animals without puncturing hides. Forgesmith Jason Leclair decided to turn this age-old utility knife into a sheer work of art, blending Damascus and CuMai into what can only be described as the most beautiful pair of marbled hand-forged blades my eyes have ever seen.Designer: Jason LeclairImagine painting the Mona Lisa twice thats how I like describing the sheer amount of artistry in Leclairs knifemaking skills. The trapper boasts two blades, made from Damascus core CuMai steel. The inner Damascus layer is visible on the blades edge, with its gorgeous marbling pattern, but the higher you go, you see the CuMai sandwiched in the middle. The Cu or Copper makes itself visible like a lightning streak running across from bolster to tip. The shape of the copper strip as well as the Damascus steel is unique to each blade of each knife, which means theres absolutely no way two knives look the same every knife is unique like a fingerprint.Most trappers come with clip-point and spey-style blades, but Leclair switched things up by ditching the spey for a Wharncliffe or sheepsfoot-style blade. It definitely adds a bit of character to the knife, giving the edge an upward flair that really makes for a great silhouette. While it isnt ideal for fur-trapping, Id be mighty pissed if you used something as gorgeous as this to skin rabbits. Its like using the Mona Lisa for a shower curtain. The 2 Blade Wharncliffe Trapper is nothing short of a collectors item, although I wouldnt be opposed to occasionally using it to maybe cut cigars or open letters, you know?The handle is arguably as gorgeous as the blades it ouses. Made from WWII vintage rag micarta, it carries the weight of time while offering durability that rivals modern synthetics. Micarta, a composite material made from layers of fabric and resin, has long been prized for its toughness, and this particular batch holds a nostalgic charm. Decades-old yet perfectly functional, it provides a grippy, comfortable surface, ensuring the knife feels just as good in hand as it looks. The bolsters, crafted from tri-color Mokume Gane, add another layer of detail. Mokume Gane, a Japanese metalworking technique that fuses different metals together in a swirling, woodgrain-like pattern, gives each bolster a unique visual identity. No two will ever look the same. Accenting the handle is a flying squirrel pattern shield, a small but deliberate detail that reinforces the knifes individuality.Titanium liners ensure strength while keeping the weight manageable, an intentional upgrade over heavier stainless steel alternatives. The combination of materialshigh-carbon steel springs, Mokume Gane bolsters, copper accents, and vintage micartacreates an interplay of textures and colors that make the knife feel almost alive. Every material choice serves a purpose, whether functional, aesthetic, or both.While many knives lean into either artistry or utility, this one balances both effortlessly. It embraces the traditional trapper knife design, but rather than stopping at nostalgia, it evolves the concept with high-end materials and meticulous craftsmanship. A tool, a collectors piece, and an example of expert knife-making, this dual-blade slipjoint reflects Leclairs sheer patience and skill. The knife is up for sale and Leclairs accepting bookings on his Instagram if youre interested.The post This Dual-Blade Folding Knife With Damascus CuMai Steel is So Stunning, You Wont Want to Use It first appeared on Yanko Design.
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  • WWW.COMPUTERWORLD.COM
    Neudesic seeks to speed up AI adoption for IT teams
    Artificial intelligence (AI) has gained significant traction among business leaders keen to explore ways it can drive operational efficiencies and cost savings.But while top leadership is sold on its potential, its a different tale for IT teams working the ground. In Australia, the challenges of implementing AI are particularly pronounced, ranging from limited expertise and siloed operations to the rising tide of cybersecurity risks. Its no surprise then that in the face of complexity, companies are not sure how to take the first step towards smooth and successful AI deployments.Australias AI challengesAccess to skilled resources, funding issues and keeping ahead of AIs rapid evolution are just some of the challenges that make it difficult to implement AI solutions uniformly in Australia. For mid-market companies in highly regulated industries, such as finance, energy, and utilities, addressing cybersecurity concerns and responsible AI implementation are also on the list.From an AI context, their challenges are similar to other sectors. This includes access to talent, quality of data, integration with legacy systems, change management, and ethical and regulatory concerns. However, they also face heightened cyber threats and fraud, driven by threat actors leveraging AI to become more sophisticated. The consequence of a breach can be significant from both a financial and consumer trust perspective, explains John Hanna, Neudesic AustraliaUltimately, the breadth of data mid-market companies in finance, energy, and utilities need to deal with is beyond the capabilities of existing systems that rely on the identification of known patterns or human analysis. By adopting AI, these companies gain the capability to analyse information at scale and speed to identify and stop these threats before they significantly impact the business, adds Hanna.To overcome these challenges, Neudesic helps organisations through its expertise, cutting-edge technology, and strong partnerships with Microsoft, having won the Microsoft Partner of the Year award over 20 times. As a global professional services firm, Neudesic is now bringing decades of experience delivering capabilities spanning data and AI, cloud migration and modernisation, application development, and business strategy to Australia.Hanna shares Neudesics approach, which comprises four pillars.People: Its diverse array of internal experts spanning industries, skillsets, and Microsoft Azure and OpenAI solutions help clients address a wide spectrum of business challenges for any organisationApproach: It achieves results not only by implementing Microsoft and OpenAI solutions, but also by addressing todays challenges, identifying tomorrows opportunities, and designing the best path forwardTechnology: It focuses on innovation to develop solutions that meet clients needs while accelerating time to valueExpertise: With 20 years of expertise in Microsofts stack, it offers clients expert knowledge to tackle critical IT challenges and unlock new opportunitiesNeudesics process starts with understanding each clients business needs, followed by collaborative workshops and rapid prototyping.The team will then develop a roadmap aligned with a clients goals and ensure ongoing model refinement, data updates, and process improvements.We are also backed by IBM and Microsoft. What this means for customers is access to the expertise and experience of experts across both tech stacks dedicated to solving the most critical IT challenges of Australian businesses and capturing new growth opportunities, says Hanna.Simplifying critical industry processes with AIA clear example of how Neudesic is driving AI is in simplifying the Know Your Customer (KYC) process in finance, also known as identity verification.KYC is where good customer experience is critical, but traditional KYC processes can take days or even weeks. According to a report conducted by financial compliance software company Fenergo, eight out of ten survey respondents would lose clients to an inefficient onboarding process. More than ever, there is a need for streamlined andintelligent document processing solutions to stay competitive.Neudesics Document Intelligence Platform helps automate the KYC process by capturing customer data from various formats, cross-referencing it with databases, and validating the information in real-time. It also streamlines compliance with customer identification programs.What does this mean for financial organisations? They can now handle high volumes of KYC checks without additional staffing, while automation cuts operational costs. Real-time verification speeds up processes like account openings and loan approvals so that banks can acquire and manage customer assets sooner. Whats more, the platform integrates seamlessly with existing systems like Fenergo for a more robust and efficient workflow.By partnering with integrators like Neudesic, Australian businesses can deploy AI through a proven, logical methodology and unlock the ability to invest and accelerate AI use based on business demand and available capital.Every business dreams big with AI but can stumble when turning ambition into action. Success demands strategy, tailored solutions, and expert guidance. With a trusted partner, businesses can avoid common pitfalls and mistakes that will result in less investment remorse and create business confidence in AI faster than would otherwise be possible, concludes Hanna.Learn more about how Neudesic can help Australian organisations go forward in AI, confidently.
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  • GAMINGBOLT.COM
    Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Has Sold 2 Million Copies in Less Than Two Weeks
    Warhorse Studios Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 has sold two million copies, achieving this milestone less than two weeks after launch. This follows the Embracer Group touting the open-world action RPGs success and how it was nearing two million sold.The overall reception has also been very positive. On Steam, the title crossed 256,000 peak concurrent players and became the 49th most-played title in the platforms history. It has 33,479 user reviews at this time of writing (with 91 percent positive), while critical reviews offer strong acclaim. You can check out our review, where we gave it a nine out of ten.Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is available for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC. Fans can look forward to a Barber function, horse racing, and Hardcore mode for free this Spring while the first paid DLC, Brushes With Death, launches this Summer. It sees Henry assisting a mysterious artist and embroiled in a web of dangerous schemes. Stay tuned for more details and gameplay in the coming months.Two million copies in under two weeks! A toast to you all for making #KCD2 a triumph! pic.twitter.com/nLXPkix2yu Kingdom Come: Deliverance II (@KingdomComeRPG) February 17, 2025
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  • GAMINGBOLT.COM
    Marvel Rivals Producer Reveals That There Are No Current Plans for a PvE Mode
    Marvel Rivals producer Weicong Wu has revealed that developer NetEase Games has no current plans to bring a PvE game mode to the competitive multiplayer shooter. Speaking to IGN, Wu did mention that the team is experimenting with different game modes. A PvE mode, on the other hand, isnt part of the plan.For now we dont have any kind of a PvE plan, but our development team is continuously experimenting with new game play modes, said Wu. So if we found that a new specific game mode is entertaining enough, fun enough, we would of course bring it to our audience.Wu also spoke about the demand in the Marvel Rivals player base for a potential PvE mode. However, he does say that it would have to be a completely distinct experience from the regular gameplay in Marvel Rivals.Yeah, we believe there are some of our audience that would like the PvE mode, Wu said. But also, you can see that if we come up with a hardcore PvE experience, that will be totally a different distinctive experience from what we have right now. So our development team has been continuously experimenting with different approaches to achieve that goal, maybe a lighter mode, in a lighter sense of that, and to see what would work best for our game.Wu was asked questions about a PvE mode owing to recent rumours of one such mode coming to Marvel Rivals. Earlier this month, an asset was discovered as part of the games files that seemed to be for a potential boss fight. The asset, clearly in its early stages, resembled a tentacled monster in the style of the classical kraken.While it was far from completed as far as animations go, the modelling and rigging work on the asset seemed close to completion, complete with a maw and fully-textured teeth. It didnt have any animations, however, and the video from last week showed it following a player around any animations, tentacles fully outstretched.While a PvE mode might not be in the books for now, Marvel Rivals is still keeping up with a steady pace of content. The studio has revealed that the two remaining members of the Fantastic Four that arent yet in the game will be joining the roster on February 21. This will allow players to have Reid Richards and Sue Storm team up with The Thing and Johnny Storm.A rank reset was planned for the update accompanying The Thing and the Human Torch, but NetEase Games has since backtracked on the decision owing to feedback from players. While players dont have to worry about their ranks getting reset in the middle of the current season, players at rank Grandmaster or higher will still get rewarded with the Crests of Honor.Players that want to get their hands on similar rewards can start ranking up after the second half of the season is kicked off. Along with the rank rewards and the new characters, the update on February 21 will also bring a host of balance changes to the game.Marvel Rivals is a free-to-play game available on PC, PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.
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  • EN.WIKIPEDIA.ORG
    Wikipedia picture of the day for February 18
    Vaduz Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of St. Florin, is a neo-Gothic church in Vaduz, Liechtenstein, and the centre of the Archdiocese of Vaduz. Originally a parish church, it has held the status of cathedral since 1997. The church was built in 1874 by Friedrich von Schmidt on the site of earlier medieval foundations. Its patron saint is Florinus of Rems (Florin), a 9th-century saint of the Vinschgau valley. This photograph shows the nave and choir of the cathedral.Photograph credit: A.SavinRecently featured: Katharine HepburnLesser violetearErnest ShackletonArchiveMore featured pictures
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