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This year’s Academy Awards, which took place on March 15, 2026, in Los Angeles, featured the customary “In Memoriam” segment that pays tribute to those from the film industry who passed away in the prior year. Nevertheless, the omission of David Keighley, a prominent figure in IMAX film, incited controversy and disappointment from his son, Geoff Keighley, the creator and host of The Game Awards.

David Keighley, who passed away in September 2025, made a significant mark on cinema, notably as IMAX’s inaugural Chief Quality Officer for a span of 15 years. His influence on IMAX and film quality was acknowledged by numerous esteemed directors, including James Cameron, Christopher Nolan, and Ryan Coogler. Coogler notably remarked, “Anyone who’s ever had their mind blown by the images in an IMAX theatrical presentation has David to thank for it.” This broad recognition of his contributions underscored the importance of his absence in the Oscars’ tribute.

Geoff Keighley took to social media to convey his discontent with the Academy’s choice to exclude his father from the segment. He posted, “So incredibly disappointed and heartbroken that the #Oscars and AMPAS chose not to include my father, David Keighley, and his immeasurable contributions to IMAX and cinema in the In Memoriam segment in the broadcast.” His heartfelt message resonated with many, sparking a dialogue about the acknowledgment afforded to influential individuals in the film industry.

Following the initial backlash, Geoff shared another update revealing that AMPAS/Oscar CEO Bill Kramer had blocked him on social media after he expressed his dissatisfaction regarding the omission. He mentioned, “You truly can’t make this stuff up,” highlighting the friction surrounding the matter.

Geoff’s connection to the Oscars and the film industry is rooted in his upbringing, as he grew up immersed in cinema and award shows, heavily influenced by his father’s enthusiasm for the Oscars. In a 2022 interview, he reflected on the motivation behind The Game Awards, stressing a desire to establish a prestigious recognition platform for video games akin to that of the Oscars for film.

The exclusion of David Keighley from the “In Memoriam” segment has rekindled discussions about how contributions to the film industry are honored and acknowledged, prompting calls for greater inclusivity in tributes that celebrate the variety of talent and impact within cinema.

**Nvidia Introduces DLSS 5: A Contentious Advancement in Upscaling Technology**

On March 16, Nvidia revealed DLSS 5, the newest iteration of its deep learning super sampling technology, which the firm claims represents the most substantial innovation in computer graphics since the debut of real-time ray tracing in 2018. Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang, proclaimed this technology as a “GPT moment” for video game visuals, insisting that it merges “hand-crafted rendering with generative AI” to deliver unparalleled visual authenticity while enabling artists to retain creative oversight.

### The Functionality of DLSS 5

DLSS 5 processes a game’s color and motion vectors on a frame-by-frame basis, using an AI model that enhances scenes with lifelike lighting and materials based on the original 3D content. Nvidia asserts that the technology functions in real-time, accommodating resolutions up to 4K for a seamless gaming experience. Nonetheless, this method has sparked worries regarding the visual fidelity and authenticity of the rendered images, eliciting doubt among gamers and industry analysts alike.

### Varied Reactions to Enhanced Visuals

In promotional images released by Nvidia, various titles, including *Resident Evil Requiem* and *Starfield*, highlighted the DLSS 5 technology. However, feedback has been predominantly unfavorable, with some players voicing dissatisfaction over the resultant visuals. Critics have compared the outputs to amateur fan art and have pointed out that the representations of characters, especially their facial features, seem exaggerated or distorted, detracting from the original aesthetic and atmosphere of the titles.

Players have likened the enhancements to low-quality photo filters, fostering an overarching impression that the technology fails to uphold the integrity of the source material. For instance, in the case of *Resident Evil Requiem*, the AI modifications resulted in characters that appeared visually inconsistent with the game’s intended style.

### Widespread Apprehensions and Critique

Nvidia’s effort to enhance games such as *Hogwarts Legacy* and *EA Sports FC* using DLSS 5 yielded similarly mixed outcomes, with some character models looking excessively altered and less realistic. The company offered limited footage demonstrating the technology in action, which could be a calculated decision to avoid unfavorable comparisons to the original game visuals.

The gaming community has raised significant concerns regarding DLSS 5, with many questioning the value of these enhancements and the overall trajectory of AI integration within video games. As discussions proliferate across social media and various gaming forums, it seems that numerous players remain unconvinced that the graphical advancements meet their expectations for authenticity and immersion.

### Prospective Developments

DLSS 5 is expected to be incorporated into a range of upcoming titles, including *AION 2*, *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, *Black State*, and a remaster of *The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion*. This wide deployment indicates that Nvidia perceives considerable potential in its AI-driven technology, regardless of the scrutiny it has faced.

Bethesda’s game director, Todd Howard, showed enthusiasm about integrating DLSS 5 into *Starfield*, suggesting that the enhancements revitalize the game. However, the mixed reactions from the wider gaming community might suggest a need for ongoing refinement to achieve a balance between technological progress and artistic authenticity.

### Final Thoughts

As Nvidia gears up to launch DLSS 5 later this fall, the response to its new upscaling technology has sparked a conversation about the role of AI in video game graphics. While advancements in visual fidelity are appreciated by some, the challenges of maintaining genuine artistic expression remain central to discussions in the gaming sector. As this technology progresses, it will be intriguing to observe how Nvidia tackles these issues and whether it can align player expectations with its vision for the future of gaming visuals.

### It’s Just Not Awards Season Without Some Drama

Awards season represents a time for festivity, acknowledgment, and occasionally surprising drama. Every year, the Academy Awards bring together the most brilliant stars and skilled creators, elegantly attired, as they celebrate cinematic accomplishments. Nevertheless, this dazzling occasion frequently turns into a platform for viral incidents, driven by enthusiastic fans eager to share their thoughts on supposed slights, omissions, or controversies.

#### Dramatic Highlights from This Year’s Event

This year’s event didn’t showcase a jaw-dropping incident reminiscent of Will Smith striking Chris Rock, which captivated viewers in 2022. Still, there were numerous significant moments that grabbed the public’s notice.

#### KPop Demon Hunters Acceptance Speech Interrupted

A notably contentious instance arose during the acceptance address for Best Original Song. The accolade was awarded to *KPop Demon Hunters* for their smash hit “Golden.” As vocalist and songwriter Ejae handed the microphone to co-writer Yu Han Lee, they were unexpectedly cut off by the music, much to the frustration of fans. Viewers voiced their disbelief on social media, with many condemning the Oscars for disrespecting the creators behind one of the year’s most impactful songs. Many users criticized the choice to interrupt them after merely a minute on stage, particularly when other awardees appeared to enjoy more time.

In a post-ceremony interview, Rob Mills from Walt Disney Television acknowledged the necessity to reevaluate how speeches are managed in upcoming ceremonies, underlining the significance of allowing winners their rightful moment in the limelight.

#### The Timothée Chalamet Incident

In another notable moment, actor Timothée Chalamet found himself under the spotlight not for his acting but for remarks he made about ballet and opera. During a conversation with Matthew McConaughey, Chalamet stated that “no one cares” about these classical art forms, igniting criticism online. Oscars host Conan O’Brien smartly acknowledged the backlash during his opening statements, hinting at possible “attacks” from advocates of the arts. Chalamet appeared unbothered, flashing a smile as the camera focused on him, demonstrating how celebrities cope with public scrutiny.

#### The Oscars’ First Tie in Many Years

In a surprising and unusual turn of events, the Oscars experienced its first tie in several years for the Best Live-Action Short Film category. *The Singers* and *Two People Exchanging Saliva* shared the award following an equal divide in jury votes. Presenter Kumail Nanjiani highlighted the rare situation, humorously trying to keep the audience engaged as it became clear that the acceptance process would take longer than typically expected.

This marked just the seventh tie in Oscar history, with the last occurrence dating back to 2013.

#### As Always, There Were Noted Snubs

Award seasons invariably ignite conversations about snubs, and this year proved no different. Many viewers voiced disappointment when *One Battle After Another* captured the Best Picture award, while *Sinners*, another highly praised film, failed to win. Although director Paul Thomas Anderson secured the Best Directing award, Ryan Coogler, director of *Sinners*, was left disheartened despite winning several accolades, including Best Actor for Michael B. Jordan.

The Oscar ceremony not only honors excellence in filmmaking but also mirrors the passionate dialogue surrounding artistic merit and acknowledgment. For a detailed overview of the winners and nominees from the event, you can visit the Oscars’ official website.

**The Escalating Costs of GPU and PC Gaming Equipment in 2026**

In a concerning development for gamers, MSI has revealed a notable price hike for its gaming equipment due to persistent DRAM shortages, which are crucial for the production of both memory and GPUs. During a financial call, MSI’s general manager Huang Jinqing informed stakeholders that the company plans to increase prices on its gaming products by 15 to 30 percent over the next nine months, mainly affecting lower-end and budget-friendly models. This choice has been driven by a strategic shift towards channeling resources into mid-range and high-end GPUs, as shown by consumers’ readiness to invest more in premium products.

Huang pointed out that the price increases stem from multiple causes, including ongoing DRAM shortages worsened by substantial purchases from AI hyperscalers—large data centers run by technology giants like Microsoft and Google that are depleting memory resources at an extraordinary pace. Coupled with a limited supply of Nvidia GPU parts, these obstacles are leading to widespread increases in gaming hardware prices throughout the industry. Other significant companies such as Valve, Xbox, and Intel are also experiencing the effects, with price hikes and product delays impacting their offerings.

MSI’s general manager expressed that the existing market conditions are the toughest the company has encountered since its founding, anticipating a shrinkage of the PC market by 10 to 20 percent due to these supply chain challenges. A clear illustration of the market’s instability is highlighted by the significant surge in memory module prices; a 16GB module that cost approximately $40 last year is now selling for over $170.

To address the rising costs and supply limitations, MSI is proactively seeking to establish multi-year agreements with other hardware manufacturers to stabilize prices and ease future supply issues. The company currently holds about two months’ worth of memory inventory. In spite of the hurdles, MSI is also gearing up to invest around $625 million USD in building a new AI server facility, showcasing the company’s acknowledgment of the rapidly growing AI market’s influence on the technology landscape.

As the scenario develops, the persistent RAM shortage is expected to lead to further increases in PC and gaming hardware prices, urging consumers to prepare for a pricier gaming market in 2026.

# Crimson Desert: An In-Depth Examination of the Highly Anticipated Open-World Title

**Overview and Marketing Trajectory**

*Crimson Desert*, created by Pearl Abyss, has emerged as a focal point of discussion within the gaming community since its initial reveal in 2019. Although it had a gradual rise in interest, it received notable attention during Gamescom Opening Night Live 2023, where it highlighted its distinctive mechanics, including groundbreaking horse drifting. This event was a crucial moment in the game’s promotional strategy, as excitement started to swell around its extensive aims and breathtaking visuals.

As a eagerly awaited open-world title, *Crimson Desert* offers players an extensive environment to traverse, sparking both enthusiasm and doubt. Concerns arise regarding the depth of gameplay, particularly what players will partake in during their gameplay sessions and how it will compare to well-established open-world games like *Zelda: Breath of the Wild* or more checklist-oriented titles from Ubisoft.

**Initial Reactions and Technical Capabilities**

Leading up to its launch, *Crimson Desert* received favorable reviews from multiple sources, with *Digital Foundry* detailing its experiences from early access. They emphasized the performance on a PS5 Pro, though there are worries about how effectively the game will function on the standard PS5 model that the majority of players will possess. The game’s graphical capabilities stimulate curiosity regarding the overall immersion of its open world—will it offer a lively, dynamic setting or succumb to the limitations of just functionality filled with icons?

**Release and Anticipations**

With the game nearing its release, players are keenly anticipating their copies. Yet, it has been observed that a considerable day-one download may accompany the physical edition, prompting further queries about the state of the game prior to release and why console versions were not provided for review ahead of launch.

As gamers prepare for this release, their agendas remain packed with other titles, including *Slay the Spire 2*, *Marathon*, and *Monster Hunter Stories 3*—each presenting unique gaming experiences to fill the time until *Crimson Desert* arrives on store shelves.

**Release Calendar Highlights**

*Crimson Desert* is slated for launch on **Thursday, March 19** for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The release week features several other significant titles across different platforms:

– **March 16**: *The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin*, *Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War!*, *Grind Survivors*, *Deadline Delivery*
– **March 17**: *Dread Delusion (port)*, *MLB The Show 26*, *Thomas & Friends: Wonders of Sodor*, *Deadzone: Rogue*, *Everwind*, *Fallen Tear: The Ascension*
– **March 18**: *Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun (port)*, *The Cube, Save Us*
– **March 19**: *The Coin Game (1.0 release)*, *Crimson Desert*, *Death Stranding 2: On the Beach (port)*, *Dragonkin: The Banished (1.0 release)*, *Rushing Beat X: Return of Brawl Brothers*, *Voidwrought (port)*
– **March 20**: *Ghost Master: Resurrection*, *Crystalfall*

**Final Thoughts**

As *Crimson Desert* gets closer to its official release, the gaming community awaits with anticipation to see if it can meet the lofty expectations fostered by its ambitious marketing and initial impressions. Combining striking visuals, pioneering gameplay mechanics, and vast open-world ambitions, players are eager to discover what this title offers and whether it can establish its own unique identity in the vibrant world of modern gaming.

Extraction shooter is a fussy, intimidating name for what was once a fussy, intimidating genre. However, now, as you’ll see below the pool of the best extraction shooters on pc is thankfully deeper, wider, and warmer.

The genre has a couple of defining traits: you need to “extract” – leave, basically – at the end of a run to secure everything you’ve gathered so you can add it to your permanent stash, and if you die you lose what you’re carrying. But beyond that it’s surprisingly flexible, and even some of these core pillars are now being challenged. You’ll find PvP mosh pits, singleplayer-only adventures, and even a brilliant top-down shooter starring cute ducks.

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**The Emergence of Duos Mode in Multiplayer Games: A Case Study of Marathon**

In the continuously changing realm of multiplayer gaming, player feedback has emerged as a crucial element in influencing game design and features. A significant instance of this is the recent introduction of a duos mode to the game *Marathon*, which has generated enthusiasm among players and highlighted developers’ attentiveness to community requests.

### The Request for Duos Mode

Players have consistently voiced their interest in a duos mode, a feature that permits two-person teams to compete against each other, amplifying the competitive aspect of multiplayer games. Developer Bungie, recognized for popular titles like *Halo*, initially showed reluctance to implement this feature, similar to the situation with *Elden Ring* where players also demanded a comparable addition. Nonetheless, the substantial feedback ultimately encouraged Bungie to reassess, marking a move towards more player-inclusive development methodologies.

### Announcement and Introduction

Game director Joe Ziegler made the formal announcement regarding the duos mode, asserting, “Alright, everyone, we’re going a bit rogue here.” This statement established the groundwork for a two-week trial phase, kicking off at 10 AM PT on March 18. Unlike standard matchmaking, players can only access the duos mode by forming pre-arranged groups, which enables a more regulated testing environment. This approach guarantees that duos teams will contend against other duos, creating a unique gameplay experience different from regular modes.

### The Character of the Experiment

Ziegler admitted that the debut of duos mode was unexpected, characterizing it as an experimental feature still undergoing development. He cautioned players that the user experience (UX) might encounter difficulties, remarking that “things will be a bit jank.” This straightforward communication emphasizes the developers’ dedication to transparency while they tackle potential issues during the trial period.

The main aim of the experiment is to assess the viability of a permanent duos queue. If successful, this could open the door for duos across additional game maps, enhancing the game’s diversity and player involvement. Such a shift could have a significant effect on game dynamics; consistent player numbers across various modes might lead to swift loot collection and heightened enemy interactions, culminating in a more chaotic and intense gaming experience.

### Future Considerations and Community Reaction

As Bungie undertakes this trial, it raises critical questions about the impact on matchmaking durations and the overall player community. Dividing an already moderate player population may result in challenges, but the developers seem ready to adapt based on the data collected during the trial.

*Marathon*, while not as well-known as other flagship titles, has cultivated a respectable following on platforms like Steam. The speed with which Bungie is rolling out this new feature signifies their commitment to quickly addressing player demands. Furthermore, the introduction of new content, such as the endgame map Cryo, further exemplifies their dedication to maintaining player engagement.

### Conclusion

The creation and evaluation of the duos mode in *Marathon* exemplify a case study in contemporary multiplayer game design, demonstrating the equilibrium between developer intention and player feedback. As the gaming landscape continues to progress, the incorporation of features that resonate with community preferences not only enhances the experience but also strengthens the bond between players and developers. The results of this experimental mode could ultimately shape how multiplayer games are developed in the future, with player contributions playing an increasingly vital role.

Less than a year since Krafton fired the co-founders of Subnautica 2 developer Unknown Worlds, a Delaware court has ordered the three executives be reinstated. The judge ruled in favour of the ousted founders, saying that Krafton was guilty of “wrongfully usurping control” of the company.

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**KPop Demon Hunters: A Musical Expedition through Original Tracks**

*KPop Demon Hunters* has officially made headlines by securing the Oscar for Best Original Song with its leading single, “Golden.” This animated musical by Netflix, infused with KPop elements, has swiftly ascended to become the most-streamed film on Netflix, enchanting audiences not just with its aesthetics but also with a remarkable soundtrack. Featuring original pieces from the fictional KPop groups Huntr/x and Saja Boys, the film’s music became a pivotal element, immersing viewers into its wondrous storyline. But where does “Golden” rank in the film’s array of original compositions?

In reviewing the tracks, it’s vital to recognize that each piece is not merely an isolated work but a significant segment in the storytelling process.

### **1. “Takedown”**
“Takedown” is a crowd-pleaser that, despite its acclaim, occupies an unclear position within the plot. Functioning as a diss track, it mirrors the characters’ indifference towards its performance. With a bold attitude and edge, it unfortunately lacks the energy and connection showcased in other songs. As a narrative device, it adeptly conveys the characters’ ambivalence but falls short musically when compared to its counterparts.

### **2. “Soda Pop”**
Introducing Saja Boys, “Soda Pop” is filled with irresistible energy and memorable lyrics. Defined by a bubblegum pop essence, it allows the distinct personalities of the members to shine. While it serves as a lively anthem of flirtation, there’s a deeper aspect as it subtly critiques the engagement-seeking habits of audiences, laying the groundwork for more serious themes later in the story.

### **3. “Golden”**
The prominent track “Golden” has received praise and chart success, highlighting lead vocalist Rumi’s remarkable vocal capabilities. Rich in themes, it addresses self-acceptance and resilience while also delving into softer, reflective moments. As a transformative anthem that encapsulates the film’s main themes, “Golden” goes beyond being just a hit song, although it faces tough competition in the song rankings.

### **4. “Your Idol”**
“Your Idol” signifies a crucial evolution for the Saja Boys, discarding their boy-band identities in favor of a more sinister representation. Enhanced by a haunting Latin chant, the song illustrates their aim to dominate and sway their audience. The contrasting lively beat and haunting elements create a striking contrast, making it both an exhilarating and thought-provoking composition.

### **5. “How It’s Done”**
As the introductory piece for Huntr/x, “How It’s Done” provides a commanding commencement, showcasing the group’s lyrical skills and fierce attitude. This track sets the perfect tone for the film, filled with sharp commentary and high energy. Its dynamic choreography highlights the girls’ impressive presence, making it a standout in both performance and narrative purpose.

### **6. “Free”**
“Free” emerges as a touching duet between Rumi and Jinu. It transcends typical romantic songs with its sincere exploration of two characters longing for freedom from their limitations. The incorporation of rap elements in Jinu’s verse introduces a unique twist, enhancing the classic ballad form and creating a beautifully intricate musical experience.

### **7. “What It Sounds Like”**
Ending the film on a powerful note, “What It Sounds Like” encapsulates the characters’ emotional odyssey. It melds moving lyrics with a stellar group performance, ensuring a memorable conclusion. As Huntr/x faces their challenges and strives for redemption, the song mirrors their evolution and insights gained throughout the tale, culminating in a potent, unifying anthem.

In conclusion, the musical talent of *KPop Demon Hunters* lies not only in catchy tunes and rhythms but in how each song enriches the film’s narrative. From the reflective nuances of “Golden” to the impactful finale of “What It Sounds Like,” the soundtrack weaves a rich tapestry of emotions and stories that resonate profoundly with audiences, marking a significant triumph within the realm of animated musicals.

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