Gait Games

Sundays are for deciding to re-watch The Sopranos. Specifically that episode in which Tony gets a bad tummy and then talks to a fish. You wonder what you might fever dream of, if you too were to go and eat at an Indian restaurant, then have enough room for a snack at Artie Bucco’s fine Italian eatery? Would you too dream of surreal wandering down a boardwalk? Would you instead dream something different? Would you dream of a platypus sitting in a high-rise apartment, looking up from the newspaper as he reminds a house guest not to trip over a potted cactus when they exit his bathroom?

Would that be the-Oh. Oh no. It’s happening again. The person who’s emerged from the bathroom, tripping over the plant on the way, is bald and reeks of alternative comedy. Ready the words and prepare to fire.

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**Barbie Dream Fest: A Fantasy Turned Sour?**

“If I can envision it, then I can achieve it; I’ve got my girls alongside me, it’s a piece of cake,” Fifth Harmony belted in their official Barbie anthem, “Anything Is Possible.” Regrettably, this notion did not reflect the experiences of the recent participants at Barbie Dream Fest in Fort Lauderdale, FL, which occurred from March 27-29. Enthusiasts of the event have likened it to notorious convention blunders such as the Glasgow Willy Wonka Experience, DashCon, and Fyre Fest.

Mattel advertised Barbie Dream Fest as “the inaugural festival devoted to all things Barbie,” intending to celebrate the brand’s heritage and creativity. Anticipated attractions included a “Walk-in Interactive Dream House,” an 80s disco roller rink, a marketplace, and a bike course. However, attendees encountered unsatisfactory experiences, such as a cardboard cutout of a standard pink house with a minimal fake lawn and a makeshift roller rink enclosed by concert barricades. Additional vendors and a bike course constructed from elementary school cones offered little solace.

The disparity between promotion and actual experience was glaring, as one attendee voiced frustration over the discrepancy in expectations, stating they reassured mothers who traveled from various states for the festival. Social media posts showcased the disillusionment, with some participants sharing unfavorable comparisons of the promotional content versus what was genuinely delivered.

Ticket prices for the event were considerable, with single-day passes starting at $72, three-day weekend passes at $152.50, and VIP packages priced between $252.50 and $452.50. Many felt shortchanged, particularly after discovering that the contents of their VIP swag bags contained merely hand sanitizer and a plastic brush, with numerous attendees commenting on the absence of exclusive merchandise. Mischief Management, the coordinating company for the event, has a track record of disappointing conventions, intensifying the attendees’ grievances.

In spite of the unfavorable circumstances, some fans appreciated the endeavors of special guests who tried to infuse positive energy into the event. Serena Williams made an appearance to accept the “Icon Award,” which offered a slight shimmer of hope among the discontent. However, for many who traveled great distances and invested substantial sums to experience Barbie Dream Fest, the reality fell drastically short of what was promised, leaving a lasting mark of unfulfilled dreams and expectations.

**DDR5 RAM Pricing: Current Developments and Future Predictions**

The prices of DDR5 RAM are experiencing a long-anticipated drop after several months of rising costs. Reports reveal that both consumers and hardware producers have struggled significantly to secure memory kits, primarily due to increased demand from AI firms aiming to enhance their datacenters. A pivotal advancement was the introduction of Google’s TurboQuant compression algorithm, which aims to lessen memory needs for specific AI functions. Following this launch, shares for memory manufacturers experienced a substantial decline, leading to reductions in the prices of some memory kits by as much as $40.

Despite these recent price reductions, analysts warn that this trend may not be viable in the long run. Ben Barringer, the lead technology researcher at Quilter Cheviot, stated in a CNBC interview that while TurboQuant signifies a technological progression, it does not essentially alter the long-term need for memory. The algorithm has restrictions, suggesting that AI computing will still require significant amounts of RAM. Thus, even though the current price decreases offer a ray of hope for gamers aiming to upgrade their setups, the shift could merely be a reflection of temporary stock market changes.

It is important to note that while some memory kits are currently available at lower prices compared to their previous peaks, they still considerably exceed their historical lows. For example, the Corsair Vengeance RGB DDR5-6000 32GB kit is priced at $369.99, down from a high of $409. However, based on the RAM price index from Tom’s Hardware, its all-time lowest price was only $87, highlighting that current prices remain quite elevated.

Considering these factors, the broader RAM market continues to be unstable. Recently, MSI’s general manager Huang Jinqing revealed intentions to raise product prices by 15 to 30 percent in 2026, indicating that the outlook may not improve without substantial changes in the market environment, such as a possible reduction in AI funding.

In summary, while the recent decline in DDR5 RAM prices is a positive sign for consumers, its long-term path remains unclear, influenced by ongoing demand pressures from the AI industry and potential future price hikes from manufacturers.

Video games, or more so the people who play them, I suppose, have this annoying thing where they assign a genre name as an insult. I don’t want to reignite the discourse around JRPG as a term, but it certainly was used in quite a derisive and othering manner in its earlier years. The term walking sim was used more as a point of ironic degradation, even though it was perfectly apt in many ways. Then there’s Eurojank, a sort of real but not technically real genre that describes ambitious but imperfect games made by European developers. And Andrii Verpakhovskyi, designer on the original Stalker games, doesn’t think such jank should be geologically categorised.

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### Delving into the Thrilling Realm of *SlashZero*: A Fresh Contender in Roguelike Gaming

*SlashZero*, the forthcoming roguelike title from developer Streetlamp Studio, is creating excitement in the gaming sphere, even drawing interest from those who usually shy away from side-scrolling action platformers. With its vibrant anime-inspired graphics and enticing cyberpunk visuals, the game guarantees a fashionable and immersive gameplay experience.

#### Gameplay Dynamics and Aesthetics

Recent gameplay trailers highlight the smoothness and intricacy of aerial combat mechanics, showcasing the varied movesets of two playable characters. Gamers can look forward to an exhilarating combat experience, reminiscent of other popular roguelikes like *Dead Cells*. Streetlamp Studio seeks to enhance the genre with premium 3D animation, concentrating on fluid in-game performance to enrich player interactions.

The design philosophy, referred to as “Triple-I” by the developers, underscores an indie approach that aims for AAA-like standards. This is underscored by the team’s dedication to innovation within the side-scrolling roguelite genre.

#### Procedurally Generated Environments

A fundamental gameplay feature is the procedural generation of levels. This guarantees that each playthrough presents new challenges and settings, maintaining the gameplay’s freshness and excitement. The game’s customization and upgrade mechanisms appear extensive, encouraging players to fine-tune their gameplay to their unique preferences.

#### Story Elements

While specifics regarding the storyline remain somewhat vague, players will take on the role of a Timehacker on a mission to confront Hieros, the Lord of the Void. This character is likely the origin of the time-related turmoil that the protagonist aims to tackle. Although the narrative may not serve as the main attraction—as seen through comparisons to *Dead Cells*—it lays the groundwork for the game’s conflict and enriches its cyberpunk environment.

#### Anticipation and Community Engagement

Currently, *SlashZero* does not have a confirmed launch date. Nevertheless, eager players can register for an early playtest through Steam, enabling them to engage with the game prior to its official release. This community participation could offer vital feedback to the developers, ensuring that the final product resonates with its audience.

#### Conclusion

With its fusion of visually striking aesthetics, engaging gameplay dynamics, and distinctive procedural elements, *SlashZero* emerges as a significant addition to the roguelike genre. Whether you are an experienced player or a newcomer to side-scrolling action platformers, the stylish appeal and potential depth of *SlashZero* promise an exhilarating gaming experience. As development progresses, it remains to be seen if it can fulfill its impressive initial expectations.

The mystery of what you should price your game is one that I am sure will continue to remain mostly unsolved. There’s just no right answer, and to make matters worse, there’s currencies other than your own to consider. On Steam there have been plenty of occasions where regional pricing differences haven’t gone down well, primarily due to games costing too much based on local wages. However, a new Steam update should now make it easier for devs to set better regional prices.

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**Title: The Ascent and Debate Surrounding “Five Nights at Epstein’s”**

Lately, the online sphere has been alive with discussions surrounding a divisive browser game called *Five Nights at Epstein’s*, grabbing the interest of students throughout the United States. Publications such as *Bloomberg*, *Newsweek*, and *The International Business Times UK* have classified it as a “viral sensation” that appears to have permeated classroom environments. But what precisely is this game, and why has it spurred such conversation?

### Game Summary

*Five Nights at Epstein’s* is a no-cost browser game created by an individual known as EvanProductions and is available on the itch.io platform. This game is a reimagining of the well-known horror game *Five Nights at Freddy’s*, where players must endure encounters with different characters. In this version, the famed animatronics are substituted with prominent figures such as Jeffrey Epstein, Stephen Hawking, and Donald Trump. The game has faced backlash for its dark humor and contentious themes, prompting many to question its suitability for younger viewers.

### Signs of Its Popularity

The *Bloomberg* article underscores various sources that assess the game’s ascent in popularity:

1. **Local News Articles**: Coverage from sources like *WRAL News* and *ABC4 News* investigates parental concerns over the game. However, both sources acknowledge that reports and information about the game are limited.

2. **Social Media and Video Sharing Platforms**: Clips related to *Five Nights at Epstein’s* have reportedly attracted millions of views on sites like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. While some of the most popular videos emerged in late January and early February, locating active discussions on TikTok has been difficult, as numerous related clips have been taken down.

3. **Traffic Statistics**: A replica of the game received nearly 200,000 visits in February, as estimated by the digital intelligence company Similarweb. Nonetheless, only a small portion of those visits came from the U.S., raising uncertainties about the actual prevalence of the game among younger audiences.

### Original Versus Imitation Versions

As the initial *Five Nights at Epstein’s* game was taken down at the end of February, its successor has surfaced as a distinct entity, separated from EvanProductions. The creator of itch.io remarked that although the original gained hundreds of thousands of views, it did not rank among their most viral games, implying that the existing hype might be overblown regarding its prevalence among students.

### Insights on the Game’s “Viral” Aspect

Despite headlines claiming that every child is participating in the game, examination of the evidence suggests that the game’s influence may have peaked in February, with the phenomenon largely fueled by past interest rather than ongoing involvement. Discussions that frame the game as a critical issue reflect broader societal anxieties about youth exposure to violent or grim content online but frequently neglect the subtleties of youth culture and humor.

### Cultural Insights and Adolescent Views

A fascinating element of *Five Nights at Epstein’s* is the contrast between adult concerns and teenage viewpoints. Parents’ remarks indicate a disconnect, voicing worry about their children’s nonchalant attitudes toward the Epstein case. Critics propose that children may not completely understand the seriousness of the topic, a view voiced by Merve Lapus, who pointed out that his daughter’s perspective might seem “dehumanizing” to actual victims.

Kids often respond to societal challenges through humor as a coping strategy, and *Five Nights at Epstein’s* illustrates this dynamic, converting a tragic reality into a source of entertainment. The game highlights a generational divide in comprehending intricate issues, posing questions about the efficacy of adult efforts to impose seriousness on youthful engagement.

In summary, while *Five Nights at Epstein’s* has ignited a media storm, its tangible influence and relevance among young individuals seem restricted and backward-looking. The response to the game mirrors broader cultural conversations about censorship, humor, and the responsibilities of both parents and society in addressing challenging subjects with young minds.

It sounds like Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 developer Warhorse Studios’ future projects won’t be translated entirely by human hands. Earlier today, a Reddit post was shared to the game’s subreddit from Max Hejtmánek, a Czech to English translator and editor on the developer’s most recent game, where he claimed that yesterday, March 27th, he was laid off “in favour of using AI for all translations going forward.”

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**The Eroding Legacy of Firewalk Studios’ Concord: A Warning for Live-Service Games**

Two years after its launch, Firewalk Studios’ 2024 hero shooter, *Concord*, has become a symbol of the difficulties afflicting the live-service game model. Rather than standing as a successful alternative to titans like *Overwatch* and *Valorant*, *Concord* represents a standard for failure in the increasingly fierce gaming environment, having operated for only 14 days before shutting down its servers—a stark deviation from the developer’s goals.

In a recent statement, ARC Team and PUBG Studios disclosed that their tactical shooter, *PUBG: Blindspot*, will also be closing down shortly after a mere 40 days in early access. This closure follows closely behind *Concord*’s demise, which lasted for less than half the period of *Blindspot*. The misfortune does not end there; *Highguard*, another highly anticipated title, recently faced a similarly bleak outcome, halting operations just 31 days after launch, underscoring a troubling pattern in the live-service sector.

*PUBG: Blindspot* launched on February 4, intending to forge a connection between developers and players through an early access framework. As stated in a press release by Krafton, the game aimed to enhance its systems and broaden its content by closely working with its player community. Although the team followed through on this promise with regular updates and modifications based on player input, the initiative faltered, largely due to low player involvement and extended matchmaking wait times cited in numerous Steam reviews. This absence of a solid player base ultimately hampered the game’s chances for success.

In discussing the game’s shutdown, ARC Team’s Sequoia Yang highlighted the company’s commitment to player experience, asserting that the choice was made after thorough consideration about their ability to deliver the anticipated level of service. This sentiment emphasizes a growing concern within the industry regarding the feasibility of maintaining engaging live-service games amid a crowded marketplace.

This precarious scenario arises as Krafton embarks on an ambitious shift toward an “AI-first” gaming venture, supported by a massive $69 billion investment in artificial intelligence technology. However, the company has encountered challenges, including a recent legal ruling mandating the reinstatement of *Subnautica 2* studio head Ted Gill, bringing attention to internal discord within Krafton.

The combined shutdowns of *Concord*, *Highguard*, and now *PUBG: Blindspot* serve as cautionary examples of the risks associated with live-service gaming, highlighting the essential need for a solid player base and engaging content to guarantee longevity. As developers navigate these intricate dynamics, the industry may see a transition towards more sustainable gaming models that emphasize quality over rapid, frequent releases.

The problem with playtesting is that it is impossible to predict every last thing any given person may do once a game is out in the wild. It’s an imperfect science where you do the best you can in the moment. I imagine a live service game like Arc Raiders to be extra difficult, given how many playstyles need to be accounted for. And based on a recent interview, it sounds like some of the team at Embark took an approach that involved a randomiser determining their own playstyle from day to day to make sure they weren’t just playing one way.

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