Gait Games

Back in the late 2000s, Just Cause developers Avalanche ended up in a publishing pickle with a fantasy open-worlder they were working on. It was dubbed AionGuard, and ex-Avalanche chief creative officer Christofer Sundberg reckons that had it not ended up chucked on the cancellation bonfire, the game would’ve done a lot of the same things which’ve helped make Crimson Desert a hit all these years later.

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When does the Quantic Dream “new game” challenge conclude? Will Monolith Soft prove to be the secret advantage for Switch 2? And who really needs Baldur’s Gate 4 when countless fan mods can continually enhance the existing game? Here’s your Morning Checkpoint for April 7, 2026, where I share the same concern as many regarding the growing number of WW3 tags in my feeds. I paused my scrolling last night to dive into The Odyssey. Additionally, you can indulge in listening to Patrick Stewart narrate all of Shakespeare’s sonnets.

Whatever happened to Quantic Dream’s Star Wars Eclipse?

According to Insider Gaming, the progress is notably sluggish. I’m surprised! The game was first disclosed back in 2021 during the Game Awards, and we’ve scarcely heard anything since. Has Geoff Keighley’s curse re-emerged? “As of now, the game is still years away from completion,” a source informed Insider Gaming. Looks like we’re heading towards the PlayStation 6 launch window.

Xenoblade developers Monolith discusses its expanding role in Zelda

A recently launched webpage showcases new insights about Monolith Soft’s increasingly intricate involvement with Nintendo’s flagship fantasy series. In recent years, the studio has been enhancing its workforce as it supports the development of Zelda games alongside delivering Xenoblade Chronicles 3.

“The team is currently in its developmental phases, and we feel like ‘we’re all building the game together, while also building the team together,’” stated Monolith Soft producer Yasuhiro Fujita (via IGN). “We aim to create more chances for us to actively propose ideas like, ‘This is what I want to do,’ or ‘I believe this would be beneficial.’ I trust we have the connections and production setting to accomplish this.”

“We aspire for Monolith Soft to undertake increasingly significant roles as a vital collaborator in crafting Zelda from its inception,” Nintendo producer Daiki Iwamoto mentioned. “Building on the knowledge we’ve gained collaborating thus far, let’s further bolster the overall team capabilities at Monolith Soft and persist in developing distinctive titles in the series together in the future.”

PlayStation seeks to scan you into Gran Turismo 7

Sony is looking for enthusiastic fans to participate in a competition for a chance to have your likeness incorporated into its popular racing game. “We’re debuting The Playerbase, a special opportunity for PlayStation’s most devoted fans to immerse into some of the most significant game worlds by having their likeness scanned and featured in a PlayStation title,” a recent PlayStation blog post states. “The Playerbase will kick off with Gran Turismo 7, and we plan to broaden and include fans in more PlayStation Studios games soon.” Let’s hope the company doesn’t utilize these fan NPCs to promote its <a href="

**Pokémon Champions: A Glimpse Into the New Era of Competition**

*Pokémon Champions* signifies a major transformation in the competitive gaming realm for Pokémon fans. Set to debut on April 8, it aims to streamline the intricacies of battles, appealing to both novices and veteran players looking to participate in competitive gaming. Here’s everything you need to learn about this groundbreaking battle simulator.

### What is Pokémon Champions?

In contrast to conventional Pokémon RPGs, *Pokémon Champions* operates as a free-to-play battle simulator that prioritizes tactical combat over exploration and adventure. Participants can import Pokémon from prior games to form their teams for online skirmishes. The game aspires to create an inclusive environment where players can establish personalized rules and styles of play, nurturing competitive engagement across all Pokémon generations.

At launch, *Champions* will implement specific limitations, permitting only fully evolved Pokémon for battles, with some exceptions, including Pikachu. Additional features like Mega Evolutions will be rolled out over time, but players can anticipate a diverse array of modes, such as ranked, casual, and private matches with friends.

### Assembling Your Pokémon Team in Champions

Players have two main methods to build their teams in *Champions*.

1. **Recruitment Options**: Each day, players can use Victory Points (VP) gained through ranked matches to choose from a rotating selection of Pokémon. They can temporarily or permanently recruit these Pokémon for a fee. Quick Coupons, which can be earned through missions, can speed up the recruitment process.

2. **Pokémon Home Transfer**: For those wanting to utilize Pokémon from games like *Scarlet and Violet* or *Legends*, the *Pokémon Home* application is crucial. This cloud-based storage solution permits users to keep Pokémon from multiple games and transfer them to *Champions*.

The *Pokémon Home* application supports a variety of titles, including:

– Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu/Eevee
– Pokémon Sword and Shield
– Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl
– Pokémon Legends: Arceus
– Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
– Pokémon Go

While a complimentary version of *Home* supports storage for 30 Pokémon, a Premium Plan costing $16 annually significantly raises that capacity to 6,000 Pokémon.

### Subscription and Microtransactions

*Pokémon Champions* functions on a free-to-play basis but provides several premium features. Players can unlock more storage and exclusive missions with a Premium Membership, which has a competitive price point.

A Starter Pack is offered for a one-time fee of $7, including 50 additional storage slots and valuable in-game items. Furthermore, players can take part in seasonal Battle Passes, comprising free and premium paths. Some premium elements, like Mega Stones, will necessitate real money for access.

### Mobile Version Launch

The mobile version of *Pokémon Champions* is anticipated to release in 2026, with speculation about a possible June launch. This expansion could enhance the game’s accessibility, allowing players to engage in competitive battles while on the move.

### Release Timing

For those excitedly awaiting the launch, *Pokémon Champions* is set to go live on April 8, with specific launch times varying by region. In the United States, fans can expect the game to be available at 11 p.m. Eastern Time and 8 p.m. Pacific Time.

In summary, *Pokémon Champions* is poised to transform the realm of competitive Pokémon play, making it more approachable and enjoyable for participants of all skill levels. With its range of customization possibilities and forthcoming updates, it promises to be a thrilling addition to the Pokémon series.

### The Tale of AionGuard: An Abandoned Game that Continues to Resound

Avalanche Studios, famous for its blockbuster titles like the *Just Cause* series and the post-apocalyptic adventure *Mad Max* (2015), has a rich history. Nevertheless, this Swedish development group has encountered its share of setbacks, having canceled nearly as many projects as it has launched. Among these, the halt of *AionGuard*, a WW1/medieval/fantasy game, remains especially significant for co-founder and former CCO Christofer Sundberg.

In a recent conversation with *PC Gamer*, Sundberg reminisced about his time at Avalanche Studios, which he departed in 2019, alongside his new endeavor, *Samson*, created by Liquid Swords. However, his remarks frequently circled back to *AionGuard*, highlighting the enduring effect of its cancellation. The game, which had been in development since 2009, was designed to intertwine different genres, incorporating fantasy elements within a vast open-world setting.

#### Concept and Gameplay

*AionGuard* aimed to deliver players an engrossing experience where they would take on the role of a member of the AionGuard—a brave assembly of magical knights dedicated to reclaiming their devastated realm from sinister adversaries. Each area players explored would be dominated by an enemy stronghold, providing gamers the freedom to tackle missions in a multitude of ways. Whether players opted to rush headfirst into battle, covertly sabotage enemy assets, or collaborate with local factions, the open-world structure would permit diverse strategies.

As noted by Luke Plunkett in *Kotaku*, the game would have offered a rich array of gameplay possibilities. “You assume the role of a member of the AionGuard, valiant types of magic knights who endure the apocalypse and embark on a quest to reclaim that world,” Plunkett observed, emphasizing the game’s ambition and breadth.

#### The Cancellation and Its Consequences

Despite obtaining the rights to *AionGuard* soon after its initial reveal, the game succumbed to evolving industry trends. Sundberg disclosed in the interview that following a cover story in *EDGE Magazine* in January 2009, every publisher subsequently turned away from the project, claiming its announcement had become a barrier. The industry’s priorities had shifted, favoring well-established franchises over innovative concepts.

Sundberg’s indignation was further intensified by how the cancellation unfolded. He recounted that a prominent publisher abruptly ended their collaboration via text message, a dismissal that left a bitter impression on Sundberg. He stated, “They broke up with us via text message, which I will never forgive them for,” underscoring the personal impact that the cancellation inflicted on the development team.

#### Impact and Heritage

Even while *AionGuard* remains a distant concept, its ambitions resonate with many who ponder what might have been had it reached fruition. Sundberg suggested similarities between *AionGuard* and *Crimson Desert*, a title that raises inquiries about the possible connections between canceled initiatives and those that eventually see completion. Though *Crimson Desert* has garnered attention for its expansive landscapes and engaging storytelling, its link to *AionGuard* casts a long shadow over its creative origin.

In hindsight, the only remnants of *AionGuard* are a handful of low-resolution images and the echoes of a bold vision. This narrative serves as a reminder of the obstacles encountered by game developers and the unpredictability of the gaming sector, where promising concepts can disappear before their moment arrives.

As the gaming community contemplates the projects that remain unrealized, *AionGuard* symbolizes ambition, missed chances, and the intricate relationship between developers and the publishers who grasp their aspirations tightly.

**Sony Evaluates Updated PlayStation 5 Home Menu Design: A Refined Navigation Experience**

Sony is said to be assessing a revised home menu design for the PlayStation 5 (PS5), aimed at improving user navigation and accessibility. This potential redesign was initially uncovered by beta testers who posted screenshots on Twitter and Reddit, showcasing a deliberate strategy to enhance the user interface of the beloved gaming console.

### Enhanced Dashboard Features

The most notable alteration in the updated UI is the repositioning of system applications and the PlayStation Network (PSN) Store icons to a prominent upper row on the dashboard. This new configuration allows gamers to seamlessly switch between crucial sections such as the PSN Store, media, and PS Plus management using the shoulder buttons R1 and L1. This feature seeks to simplify the navigation experience, reducing the time required to access frequently utilized features and content.

### Validation and User Feedback

While Sony has not officially validated the new home layout, the sleek look of the updates noted by beta testers hints at a possibility of broader deployment. Additional images disseminated on social media strengthen the notion that this is a genuine beta test rather than an elaborate prank. Player reactions have been predominantly favorable, with many showing excitement for the streamlined navigation and intuitive layout.

### Expected Release

Considering the clarity and utility of the new layout, it is probable that it will be part of an upcoming system update for all PS5 users. Those familiar with prior improvements to the console’s interface, such as the addition of custom pins and a startup submenu, remain hopeful about the advantages this redesign could offer. The new system aims to build upon Sony’s steadfast commitment to enhancing the user experience within the PS5 environment.

### Conclusion

The new home menu design currently under evaluation by Sony signifies a thoughtful progression of the PS5 interface, emphasizing usability and swift access to essential functions. As the gaming community eagerly anticipates official validation and a potential launch of this update, it is evident that players value the ongoing enhancement of their gaming experience.

**Concerns Regarding Cheating in *Marathon*: A Rising Challenge and Bungie’s Reaction**

The competitive scene of *Marathon*, Bungie’s newest extraction shooter, is under examination from both players and streamers due to a concerning increase in cheating occurrences. While numerous casual gamers may not detect any issues during their playtime, those partaking in ranked matches or tackling the formidable Cryo Archive map have identified unfair advantages awarded to players employing purchased cheat tools. Acknowledging this concern, Bungie has vowed to enhance its initiatives against this escalating cheating predicament.

### Player Accounts and Streamer Insights

Streamers have been especially outspoken about their encounters with cheating in *Marathon*. Notable streamer AlbralelieVT expressed his discontent with the game on X, stating, “I played 7 games and got off after being blatantly cheated on in 3 of the 7 matches I played.” His remarks pinpointed specific cheating techniques, such as players pre-firing through barriers and making impossible shots despite game limitations like fog and signal jammers. He observed that certain known cheaters seemed to dodge bans, and their actions were frequently paired with inappropriate behavior during live streams.

In a similar context, other streamers and gamers confirm that the competitive essence of ranked gameplay has rendered encounters with cheaters nearly inevitable. GJake shared this apprehension, questioning Bungie’s seeming focus on game balance modifications over tackling cheating problems. Another player, referred to as Kruzer, advocated for a more effective reporting system, recommending an option to report suspected cheaters immediately after death rather than sifting through menus.

### Bungie’s Pledge to Combat Cheating

In light of the mounting criticism, Bungie issued a statement responding to the community’s worries. The studio underscored its continuous commitment to preserving a fair gaming atmosphere, pledging to bolster its cheat detection and monitoring mechanisms. Bungie intends to simplify the reporting process, making it more user-friendly for players to report suspected cheaters and toxic chat behavior. Furthermore, the developers plan to evaluate enhanced voice chat moderation and in-game safeguards to alleviate stream sniping, which is worsened by public visibility in streamed games.

The studio’s communication stressed an ongoing initiative, stating, “Anti-cheat is a continuous cycle of monitoring, improving, and responding.” Although the announced measures will require time to put into action, they reflect Bungie’s acknowledgment of the cheating problem and its repercussions on player experience.

### The Significance of Community Input

The concerns expressed by players and streamers highlight the vital role of community feedback in the development and sustainability of competitive multiplayer games. Bungie’s recognition of the cheating issue is crucial for strengthening player confidence and ensuring competitive fairness. As the gaming community makes comparisons between *Marathon* and other past titles mired in cheating troubles, such as *The Cycle: Frontier*, it is essential for Bungie to undertake decisive measures to prevent similar missteps.

In summary, while *Marathon* contends with various operational obstacles, including player retention and community engagement, addressing the cheating dilemma is imperative. The actions Bungie undertakes in the forthcoming weeks will be closely monitored by both dedicated players and casual gamers as the studio seeks to guarantee that *Marathon* remains a captivating and equitable competitive environment.

**Cyberpunk 2077 Now Has PS5 Pro Patch: Upgrades and Fresh Graphics Options**

Enthusiasts of *Cyberpunk 2077* have been eagerly anticipating a dedicated patch for the PlayStation 5 Pro, and their patience has finally paid off. CD Projekt Red revealed the update on Tuesday, which was made accessible just 24 hours later on April 8, 2024. This patch brings a host of thrilling features intended to enhance the gameplay experience for gamers utilizing Sony’s latest console.

A major highlight of the patch is the inclusion of ray tracing support, featuring BVH8 (8-way Bounding Volume Hierarchy) technology. This development enables superior ray-traced lighting, shadows, and reflections, significantly boosting the game’s visual quality. As noted in a post on the PlayStation Blog, these enhancements align the lighting experience more closely with the studio’s artistic aspirations for the vast world of *Cyberpunk 2077*.

The update also adds two new graphics modes designed specifically for the PS5 Pro. The first, Ray Tracing Pro, aims to provide exceptional lighting and reflections with a standard frame rate of 30FPS, potentially hitting up to 40FPS on screens that support variable refresh rates. For gamers looking for a mix of performance and aesthetics, a standard ray-tracing mode is offered, which enhances graphics while keeping a steady 60FPS. Additionally, a performance mode allows *Cyberpunk 2077* to hit frame rates of up to 90FPS on compatible VRR displays, delivering a more fluid gameplay experience.

In conjunction with its graphical upgrades, *Cyberpunk 2077* remains accessible to a broader audience, as it is featured in the PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium library. Subscribers can enjoy the game at no extra charge, and it regularly goes on sale, making it an appealing choice for new players.

Nonetheless, some players still voice their wishes for extra features like field of view (FOV) sliders and mod support on consoles. Although these requests seem unlikely to be addressed, the release of the PS5 Pro patch underscores CD Projekt Red’s dedication to improving and evolving the game beyond its original launch.

For those contemplating a purchase of the PS5 Pro, it’s important to consider that a recent price hike to $900 might cause some prospective buyers to delay until the arrival of future hardware, such as the PS6, in hopes of enjoying the optimal version of *Cyberpunk 2077*.

In conclusion, the new PS5 Pro patch for *Cyberpunk 2077* brings forth substantial enhancements that satisfy the interests of its passionate fanbase. With upgraded graphics options and performance modes, players can anticipate an enriched gaming experience as they navigate the dystopian environment of Night City.

The era of wide Steam is well and truly upon us. Last year Valve made store pages on Steam wider, only making me slightly uncomfortable. Last week the Steam homepage entered into its own wide beta. And now, as part of another beta, Valve are testing this same widening in the Steam Workshop to “make the browsing experience quicker and easier to use.”

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### Starfield Expansion and Major Game Releases This Week

This week signifies an exciting phase for gamers as *Starfield* finally launches on PlayStation 5, along with a complimentary update for all platforms and a fresh expansion called *Terran Armada*. This new expansion introduces a robot army faction, set to enrich the gameplay journey for those venturing through the *Starfield* universe. The excitement is unmistakable, especially in light of the mixed reactions to the game’s initial DLC, *Shattered Space*, which many players deemed disappointing.

In *Shattered Space*, players faced a narrative centered around a failed scientific experiment on the home planet of a sect of religious fanatics. Even after finishing the campaign, feedback indicated a shortage of engagement and enjoyment for numerous players. As someone who has traversed the vast, albeit occasionally outdated, questing framework of *Starfield*, hope remains that the new attributes in *Terran Armada* will enhance the overall experience.

The forthcoming update is referred to by Todd Howard as a major revamp, though he has cautioned fans to moderate their expectations for a complete *Starfield 2.0*. Additionally, another significant release this week is *Pokémon Champions*, a fresh title aimed at fans of free-to-play online competitive battling. More details regarding *Pokémon Champions* are available in a related explainer, highlighting its features and gameplay mechanics.

### Upcoming Game Releases

Here’s a summary of the prominent game releases set for this week:

#### Sunday, April 5
– **Legend of Ymir** | PC

#### Monday, April 6
– **Spinny Dungeon** | PC
– **Fortune Seller** | PC

#### Tuesday, April 7
– **Starfield: Terran Armada** | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
– **Road to Vostok** | PC
– **Spark in the Dark** | PC
– **KuloNiku: Bowl Up!** | PC
– **People of Note** | PS5, Switch 2, PC
– **Sigma Star Saga DX** | PS5, Switch, PC
– **The Spotter: Dig or Die** | PC

#### Wednesday, April 8
– **Samson** | PC
– **The Occultist** | PC
– **Pokémon Champions** | Switch, Switch 2
– **ChainStaff** | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, PC
– **Find Your Words** | PC
– **Lay of the Land** | PC
– **Morbid Metal** | PC
– **Super Alloy Crush** | PC

#### Thursday, April 9
– **DarkSwitch** | PC
– **Minos** | PC
– **Beyond Words** | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, PC
– **Faith: The Unholy Trinity** | PS5

#### Friday, April 10
– **Tiny Bookshop** | PS5, Xbox Series X/S
– **Tamashika** | PC
– **Crystalfall** | PC
– **Extinction Day** | PC
– **Skull Horde** | PC

As the gaming community prepares for these launches, players are invited to share any other titles that may not have been captured in this brief overview. The week looks to be an exhilarating time for gaming fans as they delve into new realms and experiences.

You’ll be falling, digging, exploding, and …

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