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Unity launches Unity 2021 LTS for creators

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Unity 2021 LTS delivers powerful improvements to workflows, rendering capabilities, and platform support to help you realize your creative ambitions. New enhancements prioritize quality, productivity, and performance for any platform, genre, or artistic style.

Today, we’re excited to announce that Unity 2021 LTS is available to download and use. This release represents more than a year of focused development across the entire Unity Editor and underlying foundational features. In 2021, we continued our commitment to putting quality first in order to make your experience working in Unity more stable, productive, and efficient than ever before.

The LTS release combines the features we rolled up in our Unity 2021.1 and Unity 2021.2 Tech Stream releases with an additional six months of quality polish. This means you can choose the Long Term Support version with confidence that you’ll experience highly dependable workflows and incredibly stable games that hum on any platform you target.

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LTS releases are published annually, with two full years of support and biweekly updates to ensure you have the absolute latest fixes when you need them.

We focused Unity 2021 LTS development on four key areas.

Workflows for all

First, we focused on offering more accessible workflows for all creators, regardless of their role in the project. This enables you to build immersive experiences more quickly by taking advantage of the improvements we’ve made on how you work in-Editor.

Integrated visual scripting is available in Unity 2021 LTS. Easily the most exciting feature in the release, this approach can benefit anyone, from non-coders who want more autonomy to seasoned programmers quickly prototyping new functionality. Most Unity scripting processes can be replicated through a visual drag-and-drop interface that allows you to create and prototype without having to write a line of code.

We’ve also improved how quickly assets are imported into the Editor and made it easier to manage PSD imports for 2D game components. Get through your worldbuilding phase faster with updates to Terrain Tools, and discover improvements to VFX Graph, Shader Graph, and Cinemachine.

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Faster to quality

Next, we wanted to give you the ability to iterate faster and produce higher-quality experiences for your players. We’ve upgraded workflows across the board, provided better Editor usability, and enhanced our testing tools.

Minimize time from design to hands-on creation by leveraging Feature Sets, which gather all the packages you need to start a project in a one-click bundle. Find what you’re looking for faster with improved search capability, and experience an added zippiness in common operations you use regularly.

Make sure your code is clean, performant, and high-quality with a new Mono upgrade, improved C# 8 support, and incremental builds that compile your project as you create it. A comprehensive Memory Profiler allows you to profile with multiple Players simultaneously.

Follow up that quality coding experience with tools that facilitate an equally high-quality output. In Unity 2021 LTS, you’ll find a mobile Device Simulator to check for compatibility on multiple devices. Use the production-ready Code Coverage package with the Test Runner to export code coverage data and reports from your automated tests. Additionally, the Code Coverage package offers a Coverage Recording feature that allows you to capture coverage data on demand for manual testing or when there are no automated tests in the project.

Graphics capabilities

Our third area of development was to couple all the work on the Editor with an equal focus on improving graphics capabilities for your projects. Craft stunning visuals with a collection of powerful rendering solutions, all supported by a comprehensive ecosystem of graphical tools.

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Our Universal Render Pipeline (URP) is optimized for maximum platform reach so your players can enjoy fantastic graphic fidelity regardless of their device. In Unity 2021 LTS, you’ll find upgrades to URP for Point Light shadows, Lens Flares, and decals.

If you’re looking to get the maximum performance for a specific platform, the improvements we’ve made to the High Definition Render Pipeline (HDRP) include realistic cloud definition with Volumetric Clouds and Static Shadow Casting.

Craft stunning visuals with powerful rendering solutions supported by an ecosystem of tools. Push the limits of high fidelity with HDRP performance upgrades and features like NVIDIA DLSS for desktop and AMD FSR native support in URP.

Reach new generations of players

Be where your players are with support for innovative new platforms and technologies. Expand your development capabilities with ChromeOS and macOS-based Apple silicon support, and achieve even more impressive results on the latest generation of PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S consoles. Develop for augmented and virtual reality worlds with OpenXR and Oculus enhancements, or create for mobile by optimizing with Samsung Adaptive Performance 3.0 and tap into seamless publishing with Android asset bundling.

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ARK: Survival Ascended

Best Game Server Hosting (2025): Nitrado Ranked Top Across Leading Games by Software Experts

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Software Experts has recognized Nitrado as the leading choice in its 2025 feature on the best game server hosting platforms. Nitrado was ranked highly across major titles such as Minecraft, ARK: Survival Ascended, and DayZ.

Nitrado delivers scalable and reliable server hosting solutions for a wide range of online multiplayer games. The demand for high-quality game server hosting has increased as online multiplayer games have grown in scale and complexity. Expansions, downloadable content (DLC), and frequent updates have placed pressure on server infrastructure, requiring providers to deliver stability, fast updates, and community integration. For players of ARK, Minecraft, or DayZ, server downtime can result in lost progress, interruptions to group play, and diminished gaming experiences.

This trend underscores why a strong hosting partner is essential. Servers are not only responsible for keeping games online but also for supporting the evolving needs of large player communities. Nitrado has consistently aligned its platform with these expectations, offering infrastructure that adapts to both technical requirements and user demand.

Recognition Across Key Games

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Software Experts noted that Nitrado has demonstrated consistent support for popular titles through timely hosting updates and tools designed for specific gameplay environments.

Minecraft hosting: With the release of the Minecraft 1.21 Tricky Trials update, Nitrado provided immediate server support, allowing players to explore new dungeons and mechanics without interruption.

ARK hosting: Nitrado servers were prepared for the Ragnarok Map in ARK: Survival Ascended and are optimized for the upcoming Aquatica DLC, ensuring survival experiences remain stable even with expansive maps and mods.

DayZ hosting: Survival titles demand persistence and uptime. Expansions such as Frostline and the upcoming Badlands were supported rapidly on Nitrado servers, enabling players to adapt to environmental changes without server disruption.

Expansion to Broader Multiplayer Titles

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The recognition also emphasized Nitrado’s versatility beyond the most popular titles. In 7 Days to Die, the recent Storms Brewing update was supported on Nitrado servers at launch, giving players stable access to new weather and survival mechanics. For Conan Exiles, the platform has offered guidance on server setups such as best base locations, combined with reliable performance during intensive multiplayer sessions. In Enshrouded, Nitrado integrated the Melodies of the Mire update directly into its hosting framework, ensuring smooth adoption of new classes and gameplay features.

By covering a range of genres, Nitrado provides infrastructure that extends beyond traditional survival titles, positioning itself as a multi-game hosting solution.

Tools and Community Integrations

Software Experts also highlighted Nitrado’s focus on server management tools and community features. The platform’s web interface and mobile applications allow administrators to adjust settings with minimal technical complexity, from rolling back Minecraft worlds to tuning difficulty levels in ARK.

Support for mods and plugins further enhances gameplay. Communities can integrate texture packs, maps, and total conversions without complicated manual setups. This has proven especially useful in titles with active modding cultures, including ARK and Minecraft.

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Nitrado also integrates with platforms such as Discord, creating a unified environment where players can coordinate matches, share updates, and stay connected. These integrations have become increasingly important as multiplayer gaming extends beyond gameplay into community interaction.

Performance and Reliability

Reliability remains a core measure of success in server hosting. Software Experts reported that Nitrado’s global infrastructure of data centers reduces latency for players across regions. Built-in protections such as DDoS mitigation ensure that servers remain stable against external threats.

Performance is measured in player experiences rather than technical specifications. Large Minecraft builds, ARK raids with high player counts, or DayZ survival sessions all require servers capable of managing demand without lag or interruption. Nitrado has consistently met these requirements, providing stability for both small private groups and larger multiplayer communities.

The recognition comes at a time when server hosting has become critical to the success of modern games. The rise of live-service models, frequent DLC releases, and growing player bases has made infrastructure a competitive differentiator. Hosting platforms that can update quickly, manage new expansions, and support community tools are essential for maintaining engagement.

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For players, this translates into uninterrupted sessions and reliable access to content. For developers, it ensures that game updates are supported with minimal disruption. Software Experts’ analysis noted that Nitrado’s approach positions it well within this broader industry context.

Nitrado’s recognition by Software Experts as the leader in best game server hosting reflects its consistent performance across multiple titles, timely integration of expansions and updates, and investment in tools that support both administrators and communities.

As online communities expand and games evolve, the importance of reliability, performance, and community integration will only increase. Nitrado’s ability to address these needs underscores why it was recognized as a top choice for 2025.

The post Best Game Server Hosting (2025): Nitrado Ranked Top Across Leading Games by Software Experts appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

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Gaming

Valicy Gaming Launches as New Brand in Land-Based Gaming, Evolving from Grover Gaming

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The former Founder and CEO of Grover Gaming has officially launched a new brand in land-based gaming. Named by combining the names of his daughters, Valicy Gaming was unveiled during a recent company launch party held in Greenville, North Carolina.

Evolving from Grover Gaming—which was recently sold to Light & Wonder for a total consideration of $1.05 billion —Valicy will now focus on becoming a major manufacturer in land-based gaming across North America. Retaining a majority of the employees from the acquisition, Valicy will continue forward with a veteran team that will have a sharper focus on game development and hardware design.

Despite the name change, Valicy continues under the same experienced executive leadership team and remains dedicated to providing best-in-class customer service and technical support—qualities customers have come to depend on. The company’s values, represented by its CARE triangle—People, Company, and Work—are deeply rooted in its culture and will remain central to its mission moving forward.

The public debut of the Valicy brand will take place at the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas, October 6–9, at the Venetian Expo, Booth #1623, where the team will showcase its new identity and game offerings to casino partners and operators from across the industry.

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“This is an exciting time for our teams,” said Garrett Blackwelder, Founder and CEO of Valicy. “We have the opportunity to do big things in new markets, which gives us energy and enthusiasm. As we grow Valicy, we will focus on relationships, excellence, and innovation.”

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Call of Duty

Monster Energy and Call of Duty Unite Again with Exclusive In-Game Rewards and Expanded Program Timing

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Monster Energy is teaming up once again with Call of Duty to deliver bonus in-game rewards, bonus 2XP and an expanded promotional window that gives fans even more opportunities to fuel up and power their gameplay.

Gamers and Monster fans can start collecting codes to stockpile rewards ahead of the highly anticipated release of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 on November 14. Following the record-breaking success of the last year’s program – the 2025 campaign has been extended and will run through March 31, 2026, with code redemption available until April 30, 2026.

Players who purchase specially marked Call of Duty cans of Monster Energy, Monster Zero Sugar, or Monster Zero Ultra can find a unique code under the tab and redeem it online at callofduty.monsterenergy.com. Every can unlocks bonus in-game items and double experience points.

2025 in-game rewards include:

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• 1 Can = “Energy Flash” Large Decal + 15 min 2XP

• 2 Cans = “Peacekeeper MK1 – Hyper Green” Weapon Blueprint + 15 min 2XP

• 3 Cans = “Green Fury” Operator Skin + 15 min 2XP

• 4 Cans = “VS Recon – Green Thunder” Weapon Blueprint + 15 min 2XP

• 5 Cans = “Daylight Ripper” Operator Skin Recolor + 15 min 2XP

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In addition, select retailers will feature specialty bonus in-game content such as Emblems, Charms, Weapon Stickers, and Dual 2XP.

And as an added bonus, fans who create an account on callofduty.monsterenergy.com before October 31 will score a Black Ops 6 in-game skin – no purchase required.

“Monster Energy is built on fueling competitive spirit and our collaboration with Call of Duty continues to push that to new levels. With expanded timing, bonus rewards and the unmatched value of Double XP in every can, this year’s program is our biggest and most exciting yet,” said Dan McHugh, Global Chief Marketing Officer at Monster Energy.

“We’re proud to continue building on the success of our partnership with Monster Energy. Monster is the go-to fuel of gamers and they are going to drink up these exciting in-game rewards,” added Cody Neal, Associate Director of Global Partnerships, Call of Duty.

The limited-edition Monster Energy Call of Duty cans are available in 16oz in Original Monster Energy, Monster Zero Sugar and Monster Zero Ultra. Special 4, 12, and 15 can Monster Energy Call of Duty multipacks are on shelves now.

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