Entertainment
The Xbox Series X Has Arrived
But faced with the reality of the original Xbox hardware, Molyneux’s boast was far beyond what he could deliver, and the apple core concept went down as an ambitious ideal for what Gameworld design could someday hope to achieve. Now, nearly two decades, and three generations of Xbox consoles later, such realism and responsiveness is no longer out of reach, says Jason Ronald, the development chief of the Xbox Series X.
Ronald is explaining what’s under the hood of the new generation consoles and why it matters. “I think it really comes down to larger, open, dynamic, more living worlds, where what you’ve done a couple hours ago is persistent in the world,” he says. “It’s really about creating that universe.”
Some reviewers have been struggling to find the feature or the game that makes a Series X worthy of purchasing over a PlayStation 5. This is the beginning of Microsoft’s answer. “Historically, when you think about console generations, it’s primarily driven by graphics innovation or graphics fidelity,” says Ronald, speaking days before the global launch of the Series X, along with its lower-spec sibling Series S. “The reality is developers can already deliver a really high quality, amazing, visual, 4K, HDR-enabled experience. So much of this generation is going to be how games feel and how they play.”
Reviewers have been impressed by the console’s mighty specs and evident power, but the delay of Halo Infinite into 2021 has left them without a standout game to show how this translates into the “emotion” and “immersion” that its manufacturer has promised.
Vanishing away loading times (which the big, boxy Series X certainly achieves) is welcome news for sure, but it’s a fairly lukewarm promise. However, developers from major studios who have spent months working with Xbox’s new architecture say the consoles’ Quick Resume feature is best seen as a teaser of the true achievements Microsoft has made under the hood.
Hands-on, the power is genuinely impressive, earning praise from PC gamers used to spending four or five times the Series X list price on a top-end rig. Microsoft has doubled down on calling this the developer’s console, and played up its co-development with input from its own game studios, major players and smart indies. In practice, this means developers no longer have to constrain the play space or programme in arbitrary work-arounds – “funneling the player through a hallway or a corridor or an elevator” which takes them out of the experience or slows down the play experience, Ronald says.
Yet for all the talk of teraflops, the fan response to July’s video of Halo Infinite’s gameplay was just what Microsoft didn’t want: its flagship release being met with a chorus of shrugs. A bad game would have been one thing, but an underwhelming game that failed to show what, if anything, the console could do differently, sounded alarms about whether Microsoft could match competitors’ marriage of hardware and experience (with Nintendo’s Switch still charmingly setting the benchmark, here).
On launch day, Halo will be missed, with neither the enhanced Gears 5 nor the three-year-old Destiny 2 filling that hole. There’s always a launch-day racer that shows off the latest graphics and physics, and Dirt 5 fills that slot, with satisfyingly wet mud and slippery performance, but even that isn’t a next-gen exclusive.
For gamers still expecting a new generation to mean a big step forward – think taking Mario’s first 3D leaps on N64 or Master Chief crash-landing onto Halo‘s ringworld on Microsoft’s first console – today’s launch can’t help but feel like a disappointment.
This strange moment is partly due to Microsoft’s decision to look beyond console gaming’s generation-by-generation leaps. Ronald says Microsoft is now committing to give the best possible experience “wherever a player chooses to play”. Its Amazon Prime-like subscription service, Xbox Game Pass, already has 15 million subscribers and allows them to play the same game while swapping between last-gen Xbox One hardware, Windows PC, and Android devices. Since September, subscribers have had access to its xCloud feature, which allows them to cloud stream games, ala Google Stadia.
No doubt Game Pass means a novel kid-in-a-sweet-shop experience the morning when the Xbox Series X arrives. Subscribers will have hundreds of titles at their fingertips, visually tuned up from older generations by the systems “AutoHDR” feature, with faster load times and higher resolutions. But the games themselves will largely be the same ones that were available on older consoles.
Ronald says he doesn’t believe this is the “last generation” of truly new Xboxes we’ll see before cloud computing takes over. However, with the Series X, Microsoft – which has in the past spoken of its desire for a more PC-like evolution of hardware – appears to be putting to bed the generational lurches of the past. But in Microsoft’s embrace of truly cross-platform play, it has robbed gamers of the thrill of past generations’ launch day excitement.
Microsoft seems to be playing the long game. It has recruited talent to pair with this hardware, including the $7.5 billion purchase of ZeniMax, parent of Elder Scrolls and Fallout publisher Bethesda. The company’s massive outlay (the acquisition cost more than Disney paid for Marvel, Pixar or Lucasfilm) is an indicator of how important first-party exclusive experiences are, in a generation when consumers are not just buying hardware but very likely joining a subscription ecosystem. Potential buyers want to see a formidable line-up of games coming up, at least to match Placentation’s upcoming exclusives including Spider-Man: Miles Morales and a new God of War sequel.
In Microsoft’s camp, there are notable absences (some blamed on Covid-19 related delays) the standout games from their key franchises have failed to materialize – with Halo delayed and a Fable sequel teased but not released. Other titles have been pushed back too, including The Medium – a psychological horror in which the player flips between the real and spirit realms – which has slipped to January.
In the short term, perhaps the best indication we’ll have of whether Series X can set itself apart from previous gens or competitors will come soon from Ubisoft’s two highly anticipated launch titles Watchdogs: Legion and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla – which are also released on PS5, and both previous gen consoles, as well as PC.
Claude Langlais, technical director at Ubisoft, says the Series X has allowed developers to finally convey the joy of real-world exploration. Rather than giving players a kind of coach-tour view of a Gameworld – creating impressive scenes but being forced to push players back into confined environments as they shuttle them in between – the graphical detail and CPU combine to create a sense of awe in open play.
“It’s a big world, and at any moment, you can stop and get breathtaking views,” says Langlais of Assassin’s Creed. “I really feel like you get the same kind of thing in this game where you’re traversing the real world, exploring, and then you stop and just soak it in. This really comes out clearly because you see that very high resolution and very high quality of detail.”
In the longer term, Bungie, which built the launch-defining Halo: Combat Evolved for the original Xbox back in 2001 (but is not in charge of Infinite), says increased CPU time, in addition to meaning better resolutions, opens up developers choices for future releases. “We could, in the future, plan on having more players, if that was something that design wanted to do,” says Andy Firth, lead platform engineering architect. “We could have a significant amount more simulation in the world, more trees,” says Firth. And more of the ray-tracing light simulation – which Ronald calls the “the holy grail of computer graphics” – rendering in real time, say, the headlights of a moving car reflecting off damp tarmac. “With the previous generation, we had hit kind of the peak of what could be done. With this new generation, we’re doing that same fidelity, but we’re barely touching the surface,” adds Firth.
Coalition, the makers of Gears 5 and Gears Tactics go one further in hype (although they are part of Xbox Game Studios). “We can load up and display a whole section of the world, as fast as you spin the camera around and you won’t even notice the [loss of] detail,” says Mike Rayner, Studio Technical Director at The Coalition. “And so we can actually render and draw more than we can possibly fit in memory.
“You know the metaverse? This holy grail of being able to create a lifelike replication of the world? This is the box that’s really designed to do that.” But without the games to back it up, the Series X remains a black box of hype and possibilities. It may well live up to Molyneux’s boasts about Fable, but until truly next-gen games finally arrive, it’s just unfulfilled potential – a seed planted in the ground.
Entertainment
Laffmattazz: Omobaba, Dr. Smile, Baba Alariya, Mr. P, Terry Akpala, and others billed for the Easter Sunday show
Laffmattazz: Omobaba, Dr. Smile, Baba Alariya, Mr. P, Terry Akpala, and others billed for the Easter Sunday show
This year’s Laffmattazz tour with Gbenga Adeyinka D1st and Friends themed ‘About Time Tour’ is set to take off at the Jogor Centre, Ibadan, on Easter Sunday, 20 April 2025, with an array of A-list entertainers on the bill.
Peter ‘Mr. P’ Okoye, one half of the famous P-Square group is headlining the show alongside Terry Akpala, Babatunmise, and Keanzo, while the star-studded comedy department parades the likes of Omobaba No.1, Bash, Dr. Smile, Madiba, Kenny Blaq, Taichi, Rapin Dady, Kiekie, Baba Alariya, Kamo State and Mr Escom, the rave of the moment and ‘pitipiti’ master.
Others include Stylo, Prince PHELAR, Creative Tobi, Gbenga Laughter Castle, General Olak, Dr. Spencer, Parkage, Dr. Arotele, Pretty Fola, and Pretty Arike, while DJ Secxy and DJ Mass will collaborate on the wheel-of-steel.
The Laffmattazz ‘About Time Tour’ is expected to be different, as the train is scheduled to move beyond borders with top-notch performances.
According to Adeyinka, the Grand Comedian of the Federal Republic (GCFR), this year’s tour is coming with a lot of initiatives that will make it different from past editions. He noted that the 2025 tour of Laffmattazz with Gbenga Adeyinka & Friends will be global with the addition of countries like the UK, the US, and Canada after touring the routine cities in Nigeria.
“We thought it was important to explore international best practices and luckily, we got in contact with this amazing company called FunZweb.com. It’s a very innovative site and one of the things they do is ticket sales and promotion, and that is where we are partnering with them. Going forward, they will be the only ones selling our tickets online.
“The caliber of people behind the brand (FunZ) is one of the things that fascinated me. The passion and zeal with which they work really got me. I have also gone to their site, FunZweb.com; it’s very innovative and amazing. Since the world is going online, that is the place to be. They also have very lofty ideas. Like I said, they will be the only ones selling our tickets online, and the incentive they’re giving us is very rewarding.
“The man behind FunZ is someone with international experience. He has done this with other platforms across the world before deciding that it was time for him to bring his wealth of experience back home to Nigeria. For me to have committed to them, I see a company with eyes on the future and I think they should be one of the top two in Nigeria in no time,” Adeyinka concluded.
For the Laffmattazz show on Easter Sunday at Jogor Centre, physical VIP, and Table tickets can be purchased at FoodCo Supermarket, Essence Salon, Ultima Restaurant, Ace Mall Ibadan, Hairsense, and Grandex Superstores. You can also scan the QR code on the VIP or Table tickets to purchase the Regular version via FunZweb.com.
Dickson Buffalo comes out big with 14 tracks featuring his children
For many Nigerians, music is more than just entertainment—it is a way of life, a form of expression, and sometimes, a means of healing. Few understand this better than Dickson Buffalo, a seasoned musician who has spent years creating soulful, impactful sounds. After taking a step back from the limelight, Buffalo is making a powerful return to the music scene, announcing a deeply personal 14-track album that reflects his journey through grief, resilience, and rebirth.
*A Painful Hiatus: Loss, Grief, and Reflection*
For fans who have followed Dickson Buffalo’s career, his absence from the entertainment scene in recent times has been noticeable. Many wondered what had kept him away from the microphone and stage that once defined him. Now, for the first time, he has opened up about the profound personal loss that shaped his recent years.
“Losing my wife changed everything,” Buffalo revealed during a recent media parley with journalists. “I became a widower, and the pain was overwhelming. I couldn’t find the strength to create, to sing, or even to be in the entertainment space. Music, which had always been my lifeline, suddenly felt distant. I had to take a step back and heal.”
For a man whose life revolved around melodies, rhythm, and performance, the period of grief was particularly challenging. However, Buffalo gradually found his way back to what he loved most—music. He explained that the creative process became a form of therapy, allowing him to channel his emotions into something meaningful.
“Music has always been my way of expressing what words cannot. And in the midst of my grief, I found solace in creating again. This new album is special because it comes from a very personal place—it’s a reflection of my journey, my pain, my healing, and my hope for the future,” he said.
*The Comeback: A 14-Track Album Featuring His Children*
Buffalo’s upcoming album is unlike anything he has ever done before. While he has always been known for his deep lyrics and emotional sound, this project holds an even greater significance. Not only does it tell his story, but it also features a collaboration with his own children, making it a deeply personal and emotional piece of work.
“I wanted my children to be part of this project because they were my greatest source of strength during my darkest moments. We bonded over music, and now, we are sharing this moment together on the album. It’s something truly special,” Buffalo shared.
The 14-track album promises a fusion of sounds, from Afrobeat to highlife, gospel, and even soul-infused ballads. According to Buffalo, each song is carefully crafted to tell a story—of loss, love, resilience, and the power of family.
*Beyond Music: Venturing into the Property Business*
During his time away from music, Buffalo also explored other ventures, particularly the real estate sector. He describes it as a “side hustle” that has provided financial stability, allowing him to make a smooth return to the entertainment scene.
“Music is my passion, but I also needed something to keep me grounded. I found an interest in the property business, and it has been a rewarding journey. But my heart has always been with music, and now, I’m back where I belong,” he explained.
*Challenges in the Industry: The Struggles of Finance and Management*
Despite his passion and talent, Buffalo acknowledges that breaking back into the industry comes with its own set of challenges. According to him, finance and proper management remain the biggest obstacles for artists in Nigeria.
“Talent alone is not enough. Without a good management team, an artist can struggle to navigate the industry. It’s not just about making music; it’s about having the right people to market, distribute, and manage your brand,” he said.
Buffalo emphasized the importance of financial backing, explaining that many talented musicians fail to reach their full potential due to a lack of resources. However, he remains optimistic, believing that dedication and smart business strategies can help artists overcome these barriers.
*Looking Ahead: A Production Company and a Bigger Vision*
While Buffalo is excited about his return to music, he is also thinking beyond just being an artist. In the next five years, he plans to establish a production company that will handle not only his music but also film and other creative projects.
“I don’t just want to create music—I want to build a legacy. I want to own a production company that brings great content to life, whether it’s music, movies, or other creative works. I want to create opportunities for upcoming artists and give them the platform I never had early in my career,” he shared.
Buffalo’s vision extends beyond personal success; he wants to empower young talents, providing them with mentorship and the right industry connections to help them grow.
*MJV has come to stay*
MJV African Cultural Center has been on for years and I have been able to work on its dream so passionately. The head office resides in Lagos, Nigeria. MJV African Cultural Center Network is an avenue to showcase and to celebrate both cultural heritage, passing it to our future generations. Alot has benefited from it, we have made so many stardom from this media platform of MJV. It’s has really come to stay. So much will be seen from MJV soon.
*Who is Dickson Buffalo?*
For those unfamiliar with his work, Dickson Buffalo is a veteran Nigerian musician known for his soulful sound, rich lyrical content, and ability to blend different genres seamlessly. Over the years, he has built a strong reputation in the entertainment industry, collaborating with top artists and producers. His music has resonated with fans across generations, thanks to his deep storytelling and relatable themes.
Buffalo’s return marks a significant moment not just for him, but for the Nigerian music industry. His story is one of resilience, passion, and the ability to find strength in the face of adversity. With a new album on the way and ambitious plans for the future, he is ready to reclaim his spot as a force in the entertainment space.
As he prepares to release his much-anticipated 14-track album, fans and industry watchers alike are eager to witness the next chapter of Dickson Buffalo’s incredible journey. One thing is certain—his comeback is more than just about music; it is a testament to the power of perseverance, family, and the healing nature of creativity.
KOACH Entertainments out with new movie titled ” The last good wife “
Versatile film makers and a director of repute Andipe Gbenga has spoken about the challenges he faced in making sure the new project from the stable of KOACH Entertainments is a success
Andipe Gbenga who is also the CEO of Andipe productions LTD is the manager of the movie titled ” The Last Good Wife” and he has spoken glowingly about the movie which was directed by Chuks Ejiofor
“It was one of the most intriguing movie settings I ever handled as a manager. The movie which was a brain child of KOACH Entertainments , a new YOUTUBE CHANNEL.. .
When a buried secret from medical school erupts into present-day chaos, three former friends—Tina, Sade, and Dapo—are forced to confront the darkest consequences of a night they tried to forget. Years after a drunken graduation party spirals into a life-altering threesome, Tina discovers that Sade, her once-best friend, secretly raised Dapo’s child—the very future Tina was denied by a botched abortion.
As revenge brews, an accidental blow spirals into a chilling web of deceit, mistaken identity, kidnapping, and murder. When detectives start digging, what unfolds is a layered psychological thriller—where friendship turns fatal, love becomes possession, and silence hides more than guilt.
Will the truth emerge, or will it be buried with the past? It’s what the movie is all about.
Speaking about the movie he said the movie was full of intrigue and suspense
It was a movie that you can’t just blink for a seconds”
The movie according to him features, Bukky Raji Ambode, Jide Awobana, Diva Gold, amongst others
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