Showing posts with label Mobile Gaming. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mobile Gaming. Show all posts

FTS: Where Winds Meet Introduces First Major Expansion: Hexi, Chapter One “Jade Gate Pass” Coming on Mar 6th

Massive expansion featuring 3 major maps, nearly 20 sub-regions- spanning deserts, ice fields, and grasslands, available for free!


GUANGZHOU, China – (Feb 27th, 2026) – Where Winds Meet is proud to unveil the game’s first major expansion, “Hexi”. The new expansion will be free-to-play on PC, PlayStation® and mobile. It consists of three major chapters, with chapter 1: Jade Gate Pass launching on Mar 6th, bringing a mesmerizing desert area, brand-new narratives, bosses, as well as fresh gameplay features and martial art styles to the Jianghu.



From March to May 2026, players will unlock Hexi's three chapters - Jade Gate Pass, Liangzhou and Qinchuan - in sequence. Spanning deserts, ice fields, and grasslands, each chapter introduces brand new landscape and challenges. Featuring 3 major maps, nearly 20 sub-regions, 11 unique bosses, 7 Jianghu Legacies, dozens of side quests, and more, the Hexi expansion is a truly distinctive addition to the game with rich content waiting to be discovered!

Sneak Peek Into The Hexi Narrative - A Dream to the Tang Dynasty
The entire Hexi expansion exists outside the game’s current main timeline, inviting players into a dream that harkens back to one of ancient China’s most glorious eras - the Tang Dynasty. Hexi adopts a more cinematic approach to storytelling and gameplay. As the developers push boundaries and bring something fresh to the table, players will inhabit characters in history and become a witness to the era and live through the fates of ordinary people caught in the tides of history. It is the ordinary people who make up history, and that is what makes Hexi's main story unique. 
 
Hexi Chapter 1: Jade Gate Pass Brings New Desert Exploration Gameplay
On March 6th UTC, the biggest expansion since launch will begin at Chapter 1: Jade Gate Pass - a desert area with sand and poetry, and generations holding onto hope.

After the update, players will be able to obtain 2 new tricks, Cosmic Reversal and Sand Chaser, both designed to optimize the unique experience when wandering in the massive desert. Sand Chaser allows you to surf on the sand, and Cosmic Reversal enables you to reverse time and rebuild the ruins in the desert, which can be useful for overcoming obstacles, uncovering secrets, and solving puzzles. What you need may simply be your imagination and a touch of curiosity. In addition to matchmaking battles, there will be even more gameplay fun and strategic depth. New gameplay, Sand Table Struggle and Heroic Gauntlet, will also be available for a limited time!
 
Campaign boss at Jade Gate Pass: Guo Xin
With this update a brand-new campaign, White-Crown City, opens. This border pass lies between Jade Gate Pass and Liangzhou Area; for centuries, it has been a crossroads of east - west travel and a vital part of ancient frontier defense. Today, the once-bustling pass lies abandoned, as time quietly erodes its former glory.
 
When players enter this land, ancient legends are rekindled: Guo Xin, the last Grand Protector of Anxi, stands as the guardian of this lonely outpost. Time has turned his hair to white as he watches over the frontier in solitude, while you personally witness all that unfolds on this desolate ground and uncover the secrets hidden behind history.
 
World Boss: The Wandering Ark
Across the sand sea, there is a roaming world boss - The Wandering Ark - a colossal vessel that moves freely and isn’t tied to any single location. In the midst of a sandstorm, its enormous hull seems to cut through the night, delivering a visually imposing presence while players must precisely target its weak points as they shift between ranged and close-quarters combat, choosing their moves with care. The legend of The Wandering Ark is closely tied to Hexi’s lore and awaits discovery by players.
 
Two new Martial Arts for Umbrella and Rope Dart
Additionally, the Jade Gate Pass update will introduce a new path: Bamboocut Dust, including two new Martial Art styles. The first, Spring Dreamscape, is an Umbrella-style art focused on agility, enabling fluid, endless combos and excelling in tight spaces or group skirmishes. The second one, Fleeting Clouds, is a new Rope Dart art that centers on large, sweeping AOE attacks. Its moves cover a wide area, making it ideal for crowd control; in one-on-one duels, you can keep the pressure on and chase down enemies for relentless damage.

The Hexi expansion pre-download is available now. With a bold new chapter in Where Winds Meet, we welcome you to step into the Jianghu - as new adventures await!




Why Playing Video Games Shouldn't be Guilt-inducing: The Pursuit of Joy in Hobbies

Are you feeling guilty about spending free time playing video games instead of doing something else that is allegedly more productive or culturally valuable? Perhaps someone has made you feel inadequate or guilty about your hobby... as if theirs is superior. This article posits that activities that bring you joy and relaxation are actually worth your time, no matter what form that comes in (unless they're doing harm to someone).

In the grand scheme of things, we all should be pursuing things that bring us joy and fulfillment or... what are we doing that puts a smile on our face? If video games do that, then there's nothing inherently wrong with playing them - same as any other hobby that brings you happiness (again, unless it's doing harm to someone). In fact, studies have shown that playing video games can have cognitive benefits, including improving strategic thinking, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving skills. It can also serve as an outlet for stress relief and relaxation as mentioned in the past. You aren't making a cyborg to cause havoc in the real world... you're gaming in your free time.

Ask them what they're doing with their free time, and when they respond, give them props... and point out how easy it was for you to do that without judging them.

It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that one activity is morally superior to another. However, what's important is that we engage in activities that we enjoy, not what other people think is... better (or your enjoyment would be centered around someone else's preferences). We don't like the same things, there's a non-stop debate that I've never participated in regarding best rappers, because preference is preference. I've seen people in heated debates highly upset, and at times I couldn't contain myself as far as asking them a question about preference. It's okay if you like bacon and mushroom pizza, it's okay if I enjoy pepperoni + pineapple pizza (and I prefer an even layer of tomato sauce, because it's dry with a lack thereof). Everyone has their own pursuits - some people love working out, while others prefer reading or cooking. These are all valid ways to spend your free time and bring joy to your life.

Moreover, the idea that video games are for children is outdated, but... it's still an assumption at play. I can't even call it outdated because... adults were gaming since day one. Who played video games first, adults or children? (Come on... be honest.) Current research indicates that the average age of gamers is between 35-44 years old (and that's because that was huge in our time and we've seen the growth), and the number of female gamers is undeniable also. I have to put that in there because there were girls who games right along with us, and my mom got me into console gaming. So when I mention gamers, the assumption should be anyone who games, not just select male gamers with a rig in a basement somewhere. We come in many shapes, sizes, and from various walks of life... and we all enjoy picking up a controller, keyboard and mouse, racewheel, fight stick, flight controls, VR, Steam Deck, Switch, and cellphones get our game on. 

The gaming industry has expanded to include a diverse range of genres and platforms that cater to a variety of interests and abilities as well. Therefore, it's vital to stop perpetuating harmful stereotypes that limit who can enjoy video games.

That's because it's an enjoyable hobby for those who enjoy such... which is something presented to those non-gamers who judge gamers, and gamers who judge other gamers (enjoy your free time and leave it at that... you can't get any of that time back).

Fact: You don't have to be a hater all your life.


That being said, excessive gaming can become a habit that interferes with daily life, like any activity that gets taken to an extreme. It's essential to recognize the difference between indulging in a hobby and creating an unhealthy dependency. Some signs of excessive gaming include neglecting responsibilities, withdrawing from social activities, and struggling to control how much time you spend playing. If that is the case, it might be time to take a step back and re-evaluate your gaming habits. Maybe short sessions on weekdays and a time carved out to game during the weekend so that you aren't playing catch up with other tasks (the same applies to other hobbies).

In conclusion, there's no shame in enjoying video games or any other leisure activity that brings you joy. The most important thing is doing what makes you feel good in a responsible manner. Play games... don't play yourself. Whether you prefer spending your time gaming or doing something else, it's essential to keep in mind that there's no universally superior hobby, just different ways to achieve satisfaction and happiness. Don't let anyone else's opinions of your pursuits diminish the value of what makes you happy. Life is too short to waste time denying yourself the simple pleasure of video gaming. 

So grind, stay well, and... game on!

For more on the affects of Joy on your body, check out this article by Carrie Murphy. This article was also medically reviewed by... Tim Legg, PhD, PsyD!


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FTS: [NetEase Games - Press Release] LifeAfter launches Year of the Dragon Expansion

"Hope Radio and the Golden Dragon" — LifeAfter launches Year of the Dragon Expansion

Guangzhou, China - February 2, 2024 - LifeAfter, the open-world doomsday survival mobile game, has launched its Year of the Dragon Spring Festival expansion "Hope Radio and the Golden Dragon" today. Players can claim their personal portable radio which seems to transmit mysterious messages, and join both new and returning friends in uncovering what's behind it all.

Watch the trailer:


You can download the game on the official website.


The Story of Hope Radio and the Golden Dragon
In the new expansion, players receive a portable radio and listen to weather forecasts, news reports, and music. It also picks up a mysterious radio signal that claims to fulfill the wishes of its listeners. This sparks a "radio fever" in Hope 101, with Survivors calling it "Hope Radio." However, a series of events and the sudden appearance of a mysterious person suggest that there might be something else behind it...

New Roguelite Gameplay: Resist the Infected and Defend the Golden Dragon Treasure
Upon the discovery of the Golden Dragon Treasure, the Infected are drawn to the place as human activity increases, swarming it. Survivors must choose wisely and coordinate as a team to protect the Golden Dragon Treasure. In this new Roguelite game mode, Survivors need to choose from various weapons found on-site, upgrade them between each wave, and complete the mission by repelling the incoming Infected.


Join the Dragon Party and Celebrate the Spring Festival

While listening to the radio and searching for treasures, don't forget to celebrate the festival with friends! The new casual game mode "Dragon Party" includes some highly praised levels released during the 2022 Spring Festival, along with new challenges. Join this server-wide festival and set some high scores! 


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FTS: Identity V Crossover Event With Manga/Anime xxxHOLiC Now Live

Identity V Crossover Event With Manga/Anime xxxHOLiC Now Live


Hangzhou, China – November 23, 2023 – The crossover event between Identity V, the 1v4 asymmetrical survival horror game by NetEase Games and manga/anime xxxHOLiC is launching today. The peculiar events that occurred in the Oletus Manor have attracted visitors from different times. What hidden dangers and challenges lie beyond the veil of fog, eagerly awaiting players to embark on this enchanting journey! 


Incredible tales in the Manor, where mystique and peculiarity collide!

xxxHOLiC is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by the manga group CLAMP. The story revolves around Kimihiro Watanuki, a high school student who can see spirits, meets Yûko Ichihara, a witch who owns a wish-granting shop that can make every wish come true. In exchange for fulfilling his wish to be rid of the spirits, Watanuki becomes employed by Yûko. As Watanuki navigates through his working life, a series of peculiar events continue to unfold around him.

The Identity V x xxxHOLiC Crossover event will be available from November 23 to December 14. The peculiar events that occurred in the Oletus Manor have also been reported in Miss Yûko's shop. Together with Kimihiro Watanuki, investigate the strange events that happened to the manor and unveil the hidden truths that lie within. Participate in daily events, complete log-in and daily battles to obtain different rewards such as Crossover Accessory - Water Basin, Crossover Portrait Frame - Mokona Modoki, Crossover Portrait - Kimihiro Watanuki, Crossover Graffiti - Mokona Modoki, Crossover Essence and more.

Miss Yûko's wish-granting Shop can make all your wishes come true! Participate in the Wish Event, write down your wishes, save them to obtain rewards such as crossover essence or view the wishes left by other Visitors!


Meanwhile, Identity V x xxxHOLiC Crossover Essence will be available online with a wide variety of crossover items. Including the crossover costumes: Geisha S costume - Yûko Ichihara, Seer A costume - Kimihiro Watanuki, "Little Girl" A costume - Kohane Tsuyuri and Mercenary A costume - Shizuka Dômeki. There will be more such as crossover limited graffiti, crossover limited portrait, emote, etc. as the game gradually reintroduces numerous beloved characters and items.

Incredible tales as Destiny entwines with the realms of fantasy!
Yûko Ichihara possesses extraordinary abilities, not only foretelling the future across time and space but also captivating hearts with her philosophical words. Managing a mystical store that grants wish at a cost, she has resolved innumerable mysterious occurrences for her clients. Yet, as reluctant Geisha dresses in S costume - can Yûko Ichihara fulfill her own dream in the unending pursuit?

Kimihiro Watanuki, a high school student marked by an unusual talent, finds himself employed in Miss Ichihara’s store by destiny's guidance, embarking on a journey of growth through encounters with psychic phenomena. Despite his nagging, he is a nice person with warmth and enthusiasm. Within the manor, Seer possesses a remarkable gift for communing with spirits.

Kohane Tsuyuri, a pure and endearing girl with the ability to perceive the soul, carries the weight of past misfortunes. When "Little Girl" dresses in A costume - Kohane Tsuyuri, can her courage and compassion help her in overcoming formidable adversaries and rediscovering her lost joy?

Shizuka Dômeki, adept at banishing demons that disrupt spirits, maintains an icy outlook yet possesses astute discernment and effective execution. He's always ready to protect Kimihiro Watanuki whenever he is in trouble. When Mercenary dresses in A costume - Shizuka Dômeki, how might he showcase his robust physical prowess and decisiveness as a dependable ally on the battlefield, fighting alongside his friend?

The intricate fate is shrouded in uncertainty. The crossover between Identity V, the 1v4 asymmetrical survival horror game by NetEase Games and anime xxxHOLiC is about to begin. Prepare for an extraordinary chase as you and friends from diverse time dimensions step into the manor, diving into the truth behind all these peculiar events!