Tag: PS5

  • No Rest for the Wicked: Xbox Series X Strategy Unclear

    No Rest for the Wicked: Xbox Series X Strategy Unclear

    Key Takeaways

    1. Concerns Over Xbox Series X Sales: Decreasing sales of the Xbox Series X may lead some studios to reconsider multi-platform releases.

    2. Moon Studios’ Uncertainty: CEO Thomas Mahler indicated the Xbox Series X|S version of “No Rest for the Wicked” is now questionable due to market conditions, but the game is still likely to release on all platforms.

    3. Prioritization of PS5: Moon Studios is giving priority to the PS5 for the release of “No Rest for the Wicked.”

    4. Future Xbox Console Rumors: A new Xbox console is rumored for 2027, raising questions about the relevance of current Xbox hardware for developers.

    5. Expanding Game Accessibility: Microsoft is working on making Xbox titles available on various devices, but not all games will run on new handhelds without cloud streaming.

    It has become common for many third-party games to launch on both PlayStation and Xbox systems. However, with the decreasing sales of the Xbox Series X, a few studios might think twice about their plans for releasing on multiple platforms. In an unexpected post on Discord, Thomas Mahler, the CEO of Moon Studios, which is behind the action RPG No Rest for the Wicked, indicated that due to “market conditions,” the Xbox Series X|S version was now questionable.

    Discussion with Microsoft

    Mahler stated that the studio wanted to explore its options with Microsoft. Initially, some gamers thought his announcement meant the game was getting canceled. Thankfully for Xbox enthusiasts, he later made it clear that No Rest for the Wicked will probably be available “on all platforms.” Still, the studio is giving priority to the PS5. Mahler also suggested that the game might launch on the unreleased Switch 2.

    Early Access and Release Date Uncertainty

    The Moon Studios title has been in early access on PCs since April 2024. Players were anticipating an announcement regarding the release date for No Rest for the Wicked on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. However, those plans now appear to be less certain, especially for Xbox consoles.

    Microsoft has been shifting its focus away from its current consoles. As a result, developers may not see the benefit in creating games for these systems anymore. Looking forward, a new Xbox console is rumored to be on the horizon in 2027. Even if this new console is Windows-based, there might not be a clear difference between the PC games and the Xbox titles it supports.

    Expanding Accessibility for Games

    The tech giant is also working to make previously exclusive Xbox titles available on various devices. The upcoming Asus ROG Xbox Ally handheld gaming PC shows this strategy in action. However, it won’t be able to run all Series X and S games without relying on cloud streaming.

    Even past Xbox leaders like Mike Ybarra and Laura Fryer find the Xbox Gaming roadmap puzzling. It’s not surprising that developers such as Moon Studios share similar concerns about the current and future gaming hardware landscape.

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  • Life is Strange Collection Release Date Announced for PS5

    Life is Strange Collection Release Date Announced for PS5

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new Life is Strange Collection featuring five games is set to be released on October 2, 2025.
    2. Pre-orders for the collection are now open at a price of $59.99 on the Square Enix website.
    3. The collection includes Life is Strange, Life is Strange: Before the Storm, Life is Strange 2, Life is Strange: True Colors, and Life is Strange: Double Exposure.
    4. Only Life is Strange: True Colors and Life is Strange: Double Exposure will be available on CD; the first three titles require a download code.
    5. The collection includes all downloadable content (DLC) from the games, but Xbox and Nintendo Switch players will not have access to it.

    Fans of the Life is Strange series will be thrilled to learn that a collection featuring five games from the franchise is set to be released. Additionally, Square Enix has confirmed the release date and that pre-orders are now open.

    Exciting Developments for Fans

    This is fantastic news for the loyal fans, especially since the most recent installment, Life is Strange: Double Exposure, didn’t perform well with players, earning a score of just 4.4 on Metacritic. Consequently, the studio opted to create a new offering, aptly named the Life is Strange Collection.

    A Trend in the Gaming Industry

    It’s worth mentioning that bundling games is not a new concept in the gaming industry; many studios have previously packaged their fan-favorite titles while enhancing graphics and gameplay. However, this marks a first for the Life is Strange series.

    What’s Included in the Collection

    The collection includes Life is Strange, Life is Strange: Before the Storm, along with Life is Strange 2, Life is Strange: True Colors, and Life is Strange: Double Exposure. However, collectors may find themselves slightly disappointed.

    Only the last two titles will be distributed on CD, while the first three require a download code to access. Additionally, it’s notable that all downloadable content (DLC) will be included, similar to what is offered in Life is Strange: Double Exposure, which features alternative outfits for Max Caulfield and a side quest involving a lost cat.

    Availability and Pricing

    The collection is set to hit stores for PS5 on October 2, 2025, but fans can pre-order it for $59.99 through the Square Enix website. Unfortunately, Xbox players and those who own a Nintendo Switch will not have the chance to enjoy this collection.

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  • Forza Horizon 5 PS5 Sales Revealed by Ex-Xbox Employee’s LinkedIn

    Forza Horizon 5 PS5 Sales Revealed by Ex-Xbox Employee’s LinkedIn

    Key Takeaways

    1. Forza Horizon 5 launched on PS5 on April 29, marking its first appearance outside Xbox and PC.
    2. The game sold two million copies on PS5 within one month of its release.
    3. The sales achievement was credited to cross-platform features developed by a former Turn 10 Studios designer.
    4. Turn 10 Studios has undergone significant layoffs, reducing its workforce by half and shifting focus to the Forza Horizon series.
    5. Reports indicate that the Forza Motorsport series may be discontinued, with a new Forza Horizon entry expected next year.

    Earlier this year, Xbox shared that Forza Horizon 5 would be coming to the PS5, almost four years after its debut on Xbox and PC. The game officially appeared on PlayStation 5 on April 29, marking the first Forza title to be offered on a platform outside of Xbox and PC. Recently, a LinkedIn post by an Xbox worker has shown how well the game performed on PlayStation.

    Impressive Sales Figures

    A tweet from Zuby_Tech revealed that Forza Horizon 5 for the PS5 sold a remarkable two million copies within just one month. This information was sourced from the LinkedIn profile of Harrison Bolin, a former game designer at Turn 10 Studios, which is part of Microsoft Game Studios. Sadly, Bolin was part of a recent layoff that affected multiple employees at Xbox.

    In his profile, the designer mentioned that he/she was responsible for creating the cross-platform features that enabled Forza Horizon 5 for the PS5 (available on Amazon for $499) to reach two million sales in just one month. This is a striking achievement for a game that has been out for several years on Xbox. While current total sales figures are unknown, it is likely that they have surpassed two million units, given that it has been over two months since the game’s release on the PS5.

    Turn 10 Studios in Transition

    The recent layoffs at Xbox have significantly impacted Turn 10 Studios, primarily known for the Forza Motorsport series. The studio has seen a reduction of half its workforce and is now primarily focused on supporting the Forza Horizon series. Moreover, reports suggest that the Forza Motorsport series has been discontinued, leaving the open-world Forza Horizon series, which is developed by Playground Games. A new entry in the Forza Horizon series is anticipated to be released next year.

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  • PlayStation Excludes Ghost of Yotei Plates for Original PS5 Owners

    PlayStation Excludes Ghost of Yotei Plates for Original PS5 Owners

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has launched limited edition console plates for Ghost of Yotei, causing excitement and some dissatisfaction among original PS5 owners.
    2. The faceplates feature unique designs inspired by Japanese art, with a gold version and a black version available at select retailers.
    3. Original PS5 owners feel neglected as Sony focuses on newer PS5 Slim and Pro models, despite the original model still being popular.
    4. The original PS5 was discontinued in late 2023, only three years after its release, leading to concerns about exclusivity for early adopters.
    5. While some original PS5 users consider third-party faceplates, they can still purchase the limited edition Ghost of Yotei controller, compatible with all PS5 models.

    PlayStation has recently unveiled the limited edition console plates for Ghost of Yotei, creating both excitement and some discontent, particularly among those who possess the original PS5 launch model.

    Shifting Focus for Ghost of Yotei

    As the launch of Sucker Punch’s Ghost of Yotei approaches on October 2, Sony is gearing up with promotional strategies and merchandise for its key titles. The company has announced a range of special edition items, which include two PS5 Slim bundles, matching DualSense controllers, and faceplates designed for both the PS5 Slim and PS5 Pro.

    Unique Designs and Availability

    The Ghost of Yotei faceplates will be available in a stunning gold design inspired by the traditional Japanese art of kintsugi, while the black version draws from sumi-e. The striking brushstrokes on these plates symbolize the character Atsu’s journey throughout the game. However, the black edition is only available at select retailers and through PlayStation Direct.

    Still, a significant number of PS5 players will not be able to take advantage of this offer. Many original PS5 owners have voiced their dissatisfaction online, feeling that Sony has overlooked their launch consoles in favor of the newer PS5 Slim and Pro models.

    The Frustration of Original PS5 Owners

    Many users of the original PS5 feel neglected, even though this model remains popular and accessible on resale markets. This is despite Sony discontinuing it in late 2023, only three years after its debut, and replacing it with the Slim edition.

    This is not the first occasion where Sony has seemingly ignored original PS5 owners. In 2024, the company released exclusive 30th anniversary faceplates for the PS5 Slim and Pro, which left early adopters feeling excluded.

    Some PS5 owners are considering turning to third-party or unofficial faceplates, despite these options lacking the quality and unique features found in Sony’s official offerings. However, original PS5 users can still purchase the limited edition Ghost of Yotei controller, which is compatible with all PS5 models.

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  • Try the Highly Anticipated Game for Free Before PS5 Release

    Try the Highly Anticipated Game for Free Before PS5 Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new installment of Coffee Talk, titled Coffee Talk Tokyo, features gameplay in a Japanese setting, enhancing the narrative experience.
    2. A free demo of Coffee Talk Tokyo is available on PS5 and Xbox Series for players to try before the full release.
    3. The storytelling in the game is entrusted to a different studio, adding depth to customer interactions and narratives.
    4. The full version of Coffee Talk Tokyo is speculated to release by the end of 2025 across multiple platforms.
    5. The previous game in the series, Coffee Talk Episode 2, received a Metacritic score of 76 and is known for its relaxing atmosphere and soothing music.

    There are a lot of games available in the PS5 library, so players can find something that suits their taste. Now, there’s a chance to sample a new game for free before its official launch. If you love stories, this is one you won’t want to miss.

    A New Chapter in Coffee Talk

    The latest installment, Coffee Talk, is starting to gain buzz, particularly regarding its gameplay mechanics. A demo is now accessible on both PS5 and Xbox Series.

    In this edition, Coffee Talk Tokyo, you’ll immerse yourself in Japan, also known as the land of the rising sun. This setting allows you to explore the unique atmosphere of Japanese bars while experiencing a rich narrative brought to you by Chorus Worldwide Games Limited. Interestingly, Toge Production, who developed the game, has entrusted another studio with the storytelling aspect. This means you need to pay attention to your customers’ narratives, as some contain unexpected twists, and you’ll uncover much about both your regulars and newcomers.

    Try It for Free

    If you’re eager to give it a shot, the demo is available at no cost on PS5 and Xbox Series. As for when the full version will be released, not much information is out yet; however, it is speculated that it might come out by the end of 2025 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X, S, and Nintendo Switch.

    Just a quick reminder, the second game in this series, titled Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly, received a Metacritic score of 76 and was set in an alternate Seattle, where various creatures coexisted with humans. Your task was to serve beverages like tea, coffee, and hot chocolate while listening to the stories of your customers, showing them empathy. It’s important to mention that the soothing music in this version created a relaxing environment, allowing players to enjoy each moment fully. It’s clear that the same soothing vibes will be present in this new episode taking place in Japan.

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  • May Console and Accessory Sales Dip 13% in Investment

    May Console and Accessory Sales Dip 13% in Investment

    Key Takeaways

    1. Video game hardware sales decreased by 13% in May 2023 compared to May 2022, dropping from $197 million to $172 million.
    2. The PS5 remains the top-selling console, with a 3% increase in sales, while the Xbox Series and Nintendo Switch saw declines of 30% and 44%, respectively.
    3. Accessory sales also declined by 6%, from $165 million to $154 million, with the PS5 Dual Sense Wireless Controller being the best-selling accessory.
    4. Year-to-date sales for video game hardware dropped by 26%, and accessory sales saw a 12% decline.
    5. The ongoing sales drop suggests that current consoles may be nearing the end of their life cycle, indicating a potential need for new generation upgrades.

    The sales of video game consoles and accessories has been going down, according to new data from an analysis firm that reveals much lower sales figures for May compared to last year. The PS5 keeps its number one position among the consoles sold, however, the Xbox Series and the original Switch did not perform as well.

    Sales Data Overview

    This information comes from Circana through Mat Piscatella on BlueSky, showing that the spending on video game hardware decreased by 13% in May this year versus last year. The total dropped from $197 million to $172 million, continuing a trend observed over the past few months. Despite this, the PS5 (Buy on Amazon) experienced a 3% increase in sales, making it the top hardware seller in units and dollars. Conversely, sales for the Xbox Series consoles and the original Nintendo Switch plummeted by 30% and 44%, respectively.

    Accessories and Year-to-Date Sales

    When it comes to accessories, there was a 6% decline in sales, decreasing from $165 million to $154 million. The PS5 Dual Sense Wireless Controller in Midnight Black (Buy on Amazon) emerged as the top-selling accessory in both units and dollars.

    Circana also provided year-to-date (YTD) data but mentioned that January 2024 had a five-week tracking period while January 2025 was only four weeks. During this timeframe, video game hardware sales dropped by 26%, and accessory sales saw a 12% decline.

    Market Trends and Best-Selling Games

    This ongoing drop hints that the PS5, Xbox Series, and Nintendo Switch consoles may be reaching the end of their life cycle. The PS5 and Xbox Series were introduced in 2020 while the original Switch launched in 2017. Although there is a new Switch model available, the PS5 and Xbox Series appear to be due for a new generation upgrade.

    In terms of the best-selling video games for May, Elden Ring: Nightreign and Doom: The Dark Ages took the top two places, while The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, which was the best-seller the previous month, slipped to number four. There has also been a surge in sales for Star Wars: Battlefront II, which rose from 135 to number 12 in May due to recent buzz around the game.

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  • Play The Last of Us Part II Remastered in Chronological Order

    Play The Last of Us Part II Remastered in Chronological Order

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Last of Us Part II Remastered was released for PS5 in January 2024 and for PC in April 2024.
    2. A new free update allows players to experience the game in a Chronological mode for better narrative understanding.
    3. The developers recommend first-time players start with the original gameplay order.
    4. The update includes new trophies and two new skins for the No Return survival mode.
    5. Patch 2.1.0 for PS5 and Patch 1.5 for PC also provide various bug fixes and performance enhancements.

    The Last of Us Part II was launched in June 2020, and a remastered edition was released in January 2024 for the PS5. Following that, in April of the same year, The Last of Us Part II Remastered became available on PC through Steam and the Epic Games Store. The game’s narrative unfolds in a non-linear fashion, but Naughty Dog has introduced a new update that lets players experience Ellie’s adventure in a chronological order. This is aimed at attracting newcomers and enticing those who’ve already played the game.

    New Update Announcement

    As per the announcement on the PlayStation Blog, the free update for The Last of Us Part II Remastered now allows players on PS5 and PC to start the game in Chronological mode. The Naughty Dog team believes that this option will further enrich players’ understanding of the narrative in Part II. According to Jonathon Dornbush, the Editorial Content Manager, “Players will be able to see how Ellie being gifted a guitar flows so neatly into her learning to play, for example, while the journey through Seattle will showcase the fascinating parallels between Ellie and Abby’s crisscrossing journeys. You’ll see just how close they come into running into each other, how their actions impact each other, and more.”

    Playing Experience

    For those playing for the first time, the developers still suggest experiencing the game in its original form, but the Chronological mode is an available option. Once again, the team collaborated with Nixxes to facilitate this new experience for PC users. Additionally, players can earn new trophies in Chronological mode, and there are two new skins to use in the No Return survival mode.

    Patch Details

    The PS5 update is delivered through Patch 2.1.0, while the PC update is contained in Patch 1.5. Along with these new features, the update also includes various bug fixes and enhancements for performance.

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  • Yotei Leak Fails as Redditor Faces Mockery Before State of Play

    Yotei Leak Fails as Redditor Faces Mockery Before State of Play

    Key Takeaways

    1. Development footage of Ghost of Yotei was leaked by an individual who spied on Sucker Punch Studio’s headquarters from a hotel room.
    2. The leak was poorly timed, as Sony had announced an official gameplay showcase for the game on July 10, 2025.
    3. The Reddit post sharing the leak was quickly removed, and the individual faced mockery for their actions.
    4. Ethical concerns were raised about invading the studio’s privacy for game footage, with some users criticizing the behavior.
    5. Ghost of Yotei is a sequel to Ghost of Tsushima, featuring a female lead named Atsu, and is set for release on PS5 on October 2, 2025.

    Development footage of Ghost of Yotei has reportedly been leaked in a surprising way. An online detective took it upon themselves to sneak a look at Sucker Punch Studio’s Bellevue Headquarters to catch a glimpse of the game in progress. Rather than being celebrated as a hero, the sleuth found themselves facing mockery from many.

    The Leak’s Unfortunate Timing

    The individual shared their findings on Reddit, but the post was quickly removed. It featured them trying to look through the windows of Sucker Punch Studios, where they claimed to see what seemed to be Ghost of Yotei. The footage was captured from a hotel room that overlooked the studio’s location in City Center Plaza, Washington.

    Despite the redditor’s excitement in sharing the leak, they were met with disapproval from users across the platform. The timing of this amateur spying was especially criticized since Sony had already announced that the “official State of Play for Ghost of Yotei,” set for July 10, 2025, will showcase almost 20 minutes of gameplay. This event will be presented by Sucker Punch’s creative directors, Nate Fox and Jason Conell.

    Ethical Concerns Raised

    Alongside the laughter and teasing, one redditor pointed out the moral issues involved, saying, “No one deserves their privacy to be ruined just to give us glimpses of video games.”

    The irony in this whole scenario is hard to ignore. Ghost of Yotei was first revealed on September 25, 2024, with a mix of cutscenes and in-game footage. A follow-up trailer came out on April 23, 2025, giving more details about the narrative and the villains in Ghost of Yotei.

    Game Details and Release Date

    As of now, we know that Ghost of Yotei serves as a sequel to Ghost of Tsushima. The game is set in 1603, nearly three centuries after the events of the original title. Unlike Jin Sakai, the new game features a female lead, Atsu, who wears the “Ghost mask” and embarks on a mission for revenge in the area around Mount Yotei, which is now called Hokkaido.

    Ghost of Yotei is planned for an exclusive PS5 launch on October 2, 2025. Sony is also considering a PC version of the game, which may come out in late 2026, according to their current timeline for PlayStation PC releases.

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  • Death Stranding 2 Expected to Sell 1.4M Copies by June

    Death Stranding 2 Expected to Sell 1.4M Copies by June

    Key Takeaways

    1. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach had a strong start in the UK but saw a 66% drop in launch sales compared to the original game.
    2. Ampere projects global sales of 1.4 million copies for Death Stranding 2 by the end of June, indicating reliance on digital purchases.
    3. Sales figures for PS5 titles are not disclosed by Sony, leading to reliance on estimates from companies like Ampere.
    4. The digital gaming market has grown significantly since the first game’s launch, with the sequel being a top seller on the PS Store in North America.
    5. A Dutch consumer protection agency is taking legal action against Sony for alleged monopolistic behavior regarding digital game sales.

    Some gamers have voiced worries after the first sales figures for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach were revealed. In the UK, the project by Hideo Kojima led the sales charts, yet its launch sales fell by 66% compared to the previous game. It’s worth noting that the data only counted physical disc sales. Ampere has now projected that by the end of June, Death Stranding 2 is expected to have sold 1.4 million copies globally. These numbers indicate a strong start, but they also highlight how many new PS5 titles rely heavily on digital purchases.

    Caution Advised

    When the UK sales figures for Death Stranding 2 appeared, Christopher Dring from The Game Business recommended taking a careful approach. Since the first Death Stranding launched in 2019, the appeal of digital gaming has grown immensely. Indeed, North American players have just discovered that the sequel was the top seller in June on the PS Store. Even though the standard edition came out on June 26th, it’s already sitting at fourth place in Sony’s UK rankings.

    Sales Numbers Unavailable

    Sadly, Sony does not disclose exact sales figures for PS5 titles on its platform. This leaves companies like Ampere to rely on other indicators for their estimates. The original Death Stranding achieved 5 million sales by July 2021, but this was after the PC version was released. Unless there’s an unexpected drop, the new post-apocalyptic action-adventure game seems to be on a bright path.

    Digital vs. Physical

    Although both physical standard and collector’s editions are on the market, the ease of buying from the PS Store is alluring. However, the rise of the digital marketplace has not been without its issues. A Dutch consumer protection agency has recently taken legal action against Sony, claiming they are engaging in monopolistic behavior. The agency is pushing for Sony to permit other retailers to offer digital PS5 games on the console. Meanwhile, collectors of games have pointed out that it’s often simpler to find significant discounts on disc versions at retail stores.

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    Death Stranding 2 Expected to Sell 1.4M Copies by June
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  • Death Stranding 2 Map Bug Causes PS5 Overheating Issues

    Death Stranding 2 Map Bug Causes PS5 Overheating Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Favorable Reception: “Death Stranding 2: On the Beach” launched on June 26 with a Metacritic score of 90 and positive reviews from critics.

    2. Overheating Concerns: Some PS5 consoles are experiencing overheating warnings, particularly when accessing the map screen during gameplay.

    3. User Reports: Several players have reported similar overheating issues, with fans running at maximum speed when on the map, while regular gameplay remains unaffected.

    4. Affected Consoles: The overheating issue mainly impacts the standard PS5 model, with PS5 Pro users reporting increased fan noise but no overheating warnings.

    5. Patch Status: A recent game patch (version 1.04) was released, but it does not address the overheating problem; players are advised to wait for a future update from Kojima Productions.

    Death Stranding 2: On the Beach (currently priced at $69 on Amazon) has received mostly favorable feedback since its launch on June 26. This PlayStation 5-exclusive title boasts an impressive Metacritic score of 90, and its creator, Hideo Kojima, has shared his delight over the reviews from critics.

    Overheating Issues

    While the game is flying off the shelves on PS5, a Reddit user named u/mudman2018 has raised concerns about some PS5 consoles overheating when running the game. According to the Reddit post,

    “As soon as I pause the game and the map screen comes up, the fan suddenly goes into overdrive and I get an overheat warning.”

    The user adds that everything else runs just fine, even during extended gaming sessions. However, when the map is accessed and a route is planned, the fan goes wild and triggers an overheating alert.

    User Experiences

    Other users have also shared similar issues, with one even posting a video showing how the fans spin up to maximum speed when on the map screen. This problem seems to only occur when accessing the map, as the fans usually function normally during regular gameplay. Some players have mentioned that if they linger too long on the map screen, they too receive overheating warnings.

    The exact reason this issue arises only on the map screen is still unknown. Possible explanations might include an uncapped framerate or a memory leak that occurs while navigating the map.

    Affected Consoles

    The issue appears to mainly impact the standard PS5 model. Users with the PS5 Pro have not reported overheating warnings but have noticed increased fan noise and higher temperatures while playing.

    A recent patch, version 1.04, was released without any accompanying changelog and does not seem to address this overheating issue. If you find yourself affected by this bug, your best bet is to wait for Kojima Productions to recognize the issue and issue a new patch.

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