Gaming

Unity launches Unity 2021 LTS for creators

Published

3 years ago

April 13, 2022

Reading Time: 3 minutes

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.

European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)

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.

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.

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.

Gaming

XSOLLA PARTNERS WITH POCKET GAMER CONNECTS TO EMPOWER MOBILE GAME DEVELOPERS IN 2025

Published

5 days ago

February 27, 2025

George Miller

xsolla-partners-with-pocket-gamer-connects-to-empower-mobile-game-developers-in-2025

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Xsolla, a leading global video game commerce company, is deepening its commitment to mobile game developers through a strategic partnership with Pocket Gamer Connects (PGC) in 2025. As the industry leader in Web Shop development and management, with over 500+ Web Shops generating revenue, Xsolla is also leading the way in direct-to-consumer monetization in the video game industry. Xsolla will showcase its latest innovations in mobile game monetization, user acquisition, and cross-platform analytics throughout key global PGC events.

Supporting Mobile Developers at PGC Events Worldwide

Xsolla will sponsor Pocket Gamer Connects events in 2025, bringing its expertise in direct-to-consumer monetization and engagement strategies to the following locations:

PGC San Francisco (March 17-18)
PGC Dubai (May 7-8)
PGC Barcelona (June 3-4)
PG Summit Shanghai (July 30)
Mobile Games Awards at Gamescom (August)
PGC Helsinki (October 7-8)

Xsolla will engage with developers at each event through thought leadership sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. It will offer data-driven insights and solutions to help mobile developers maximize revenue beyond traditional app stores.

Advancing Web Shop Monetization with AppsFlyer Integration

A key component of Xsolla’s presence at PGC will be its partnership with AppsFlyer, the global leader in mobile measurement and data analytics. Together, they have developed a first-in-the-industry integration that solves cross-platform attribution challenges, giving mobile game developers the tools to:

Measure Web Shop purchases as in-app events for accurate LTV and ROAS tracking.
Seamlessly attribute Web Shop revenue to mobile user acquisition, re-engagement, and retention campaigns.
Optimize ad spending across mobile and Web Shops with real-time analytics, all without requiring coding from developers.

Xsolla’s Web Shop solution has already transformed mobile game monetization, enabling 500+ developers to generate direct-to-consumer sales online while pushing players to pay on their mobile devices. By integrating AppsFlyer’s measurement tools, Xsolla ensures that mobile developers gain a complete, end-to-end understanding of the user journey across platforms, allowing them to make smarter business decisions and improve ROI.

“Xsolla’s Web Shop has revolutionized how mobile game developers monetize online, and our integration with AppsFlyer takes it to the next level,” said Berkley Egenes, Chief Marketing & Growth Officer at Xsolla. “By bridging the data gap between Web Shops and mobile applications, we empower developers with the insights they need to optimize performance, increase revenue, and engage players more effectively. We look forward to engaging directly with the community and hearing from the Pocket Gamer community throughout the year at each event around the world.”

Strengthening the Global Mobile Gaming Ecosystem

Xsolla’s continued investment in mobile game commerce solutions aligns with Pocket Gamer Connects’ mission to support and connect game developers worldwide. With the combined power of Web Shop, AppsFlyer integration, and a direct presence at major industry events, Xsolla is committed to helping mobile game creators navigate monetization challenges and drive sustainable growth.

“Pocket Gamer Connects is the world’s leading event series for mobile game developers (and others) and we’re thrilled to have Xsolla as a key partner in 2025,” said Chris James, CEO at Steel Media, Pocket Gamer’s parent company. “Xsolla’s expertise in mobile commerce, cross-platform engagement, and Web Shop monetization makes them an invaluable resource for developers looking to scale their businesses.”

By partnering with Pocket Gamer Connects, Xsolla ensures mobile developers worldwide can access the latest technology, insights, and business models to thrive in today’s competitive gaming market.

For more information on Xsolla Web Shop and its integration with AppsFlyer, visit: xsolla.blog/xsolla-appsflyer

Join us at Pocket Gamer Connects 2025 to connect, learn, and explore new opportunities in the gaming industry.

The post XSOLLA PARTNERS WITH POCKET GAMER CONNECTS TO EMPOWER MOBILE GAME DEVELOPERS IN 2025 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Gaming

Portside Game Assembly: Studios behind Dead Cells, Dungeon Clawler, Dorfromantik, Blasphemous on board and ticket sales for brunch and party launched

Published

4 weeks ago

February 6, 2025

George Miller

portside-game-assembly:-studios-behind-dead-cells,-dungeon-clawler,-dorfromantik,-blasphemous-on-board-and-ticket-sales-for-brunch-and-party-launched

Reading Time: 2 minutes

With Portside Game Assembly, Gamecity Hamburg is welcoming studio heads and directors from successful indie game studios on a conference ship and other extraordinary locations in Hamburg on June 27. Benjamin Laulan, Co-Founder of Evil Empire, (Dead Cells, The Rogue Prince of Persia) will give a keynote on the Triple-i Initiative started by the French studio. At the Triple-i Showcase 2024, over 30 “iii games” were announced in 45 minutes, and 150,000 views were achieved on YouTube alone. Further speaker on board is Philomena Schwab, Founder of Stray Fawn Studio (Dungeon Clawler, The Wandering Village).

Portside Game Assembly celebrates its premiere as B2B-conference for international indie game leaders on June 27. There will be no direct ticket sales for the conference; instead, a curated list of participants will ensure that only studio heads and decision makers attend the conference on board a ship sailing through the port of Hamburg.

At the same time, the Networking Brunch and the Games Industry Party are open as networking events for interested contacts from the games industry to bring platform holders, publishers, and game companies into contact with the international conference participants. Studio leads from Denmark, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK, France, Spain, Canada, the USA, and Germany are already on board for the conference.

Portside Game Assembly is set to be a platform for decision makers and studio leads to exchange ideas, learn from each other, and face the challenges of the games industry through collaboration.

As the first announced talk of the conference, Benjamin Laulan (Co-Founder of Evil Empire) will present a keynote on the Triple-i Initiative and how to create your own announcement space and talk directly to your audience when you can’t really relate to other existing showcases. In addition, Philomena Schwab (Founder of Stray Fawn Studio & Publishing) will give a short talk about ways for game idea validation.

The program of the Portside Game Assembly will consist of keynotes, short talks, and roundtables.

Selection of already confirmed participants:

Evil Empire (Dead Cells, The Rogue Prince of Persia) / France
Stray Fawn Studio (Dungeon Clawler, The Wandering Village) / Switzerland
The Game Kitchen (Blasphemous I & II) / Spain
Toukana Interactive (Dorfromantik)/ Germany
Ghostship Publishing (Deep Rock Galactic) / Denmark
Landfall Games (Content Warning, Totally Accurate Battle Simulator) / Sweden
Chasing Carrots (Halls of Torment) / Germany
Foulball Hangover (Hydroneer) / UK
Siege Camp (Foxhole) / Canada

The post Portside Game Assembly: Studios behind Dead Cells, Dungeon Clawler, Dorfromantik, Blasphemous on board and ticket sales for brunch and party launched appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Fourth Star

Fourth Star Launches Immersive Media Streaming Platform

Published

1 month ago

January 30, 2025

GamingAmericas.com

fourth-star-launches-immersive-media-streaming-platform

Fourth Star, the cutting-edge virtual reality immersive media streaming platform, is officially available to the public. This innovative platform transforms traditional entertainment by enabling users to seamlessly watch standard 2D, 180 and 360 immersive media content and movies. Fourth Star redefines how audiences engage with immersive storytelling, offering an unparalleled first-person centric perspective on entertainment.

“Fourth Star is more than just a platform – it’s a revolution in entertainment,” said Greg Simon, Co-Founder & CEO of Fourth Star. “We’ve created an immersive experience where users can not only consume content but also actively participate in it. Our vision is to transform how people experience media content and movies in a way that has never been done before.”

A New Era of Interactive Entertainment

The largest immersive media streaming platform available on Sidequest, users can explore nearly forty unique environments, interact with AI-driven crew, and experience entertainment in an entirely new way. Fourth Star offers a groundbreaking approach to digital engagement, whether socializing in the Cafe, customizing avatars in private Apartments or Ships, or stepping directly into a movie’s storyline.

“The combination of VR, AI, and blockchain in Fourth Star sets a new standard for immersive entertainment,” said Craig Wiltshire, CTO of Fourth Star. “Our vision is to seamlessly integrate all three technologies into the user experience. We are redefining the entertainment experience from passive observation to active creation.”

Built for Content Partners

Fourth Star is a self-serve platform designed for content partners of all sizes, from individual creators to blockbuster studios. Content partners can set up an account, create content channels, and begin monetizing their work immediately. No integration is required, allowing for seamless onboarding and instant access to a global audience. The Creator Portal empowers partners to distribute and profit from their immersive media with ease, making Fourth Star a truly open and accessible metaverse for digital entertainment.

Key Features of Fourth Star

VR Streaming Platform – Users can access nearly forty environments and own their own luxury apartments and ships all equipped with an immersive media streaming entertainment hub.
Social & Customization – Connect with others in dynamic social hubs, personalize your avatar, and invite your friends to your own luxury apartment and ship.
Player Portal – Users can access the web-based marketplace to explore content, invite friends,
Creator Portal – Set up an account, create content channels, and begin monetizing your work immediately. No integration is required, allowing for seamless onboarding and instant access to a global audience.
Blockchain Integration – The FSTR token, built on the Polygon blockchain, powers the ecosystem, providing secure transactions and exclusive rewards.
AI-Powered Companions – Coming soon

FSTR: The Utility Token Powering Fourth Star

FSTR serves as the primary ecosystem currency within the Fourth Star platform, enabling users to purchase Apartments, Ships, AI Companions, and exclusive content. Token holders benefit from:

VIP Access – Exclusive events, early screenings, and red carpet experiences.
Discounts – 25% savings on in-app purchases (IAPs) and entertainment content.

A New Paradigm in Entertainment

Fourth Star is designed to deliver the future of entertainment through merging cinematic storytelling with interactive gaming, offering:

A seamless transition from passive to interactive experiences.
A thriving community for players, creators, and investors.
Advanced AI integration for interactive AI characters.
Don’t just watch the star in the movie, become the star.

Availability and Access

Fourth Star is now live and available for users worldwide on Sidequest. Whether you’re an explorer, content creator large to small, storyteller, or entertainment enthusiast, Fourth Star provides an immersive space to experience digital entertainment like never before.

The post Fourth Star Launches Immersive Media Streaming Platform appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.