Gait Games

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2, the second series of the anime CD Projekt Red and Netflix grafted onto the former’s cyberverse following Cyberpunk 2077‘s release, will premiere on October 20th. Having previously revealed the four new Night City dwellers its plot will be following, the show’s creators have now put out another trailer teasing the tale of “revenge and redemption” in store.

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**Title: Walmart Unveils Lottery System for Pokémon TCG Amid Sustained Shortages**

As the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) nears two years of pronounced shortages, retailers are striving to devise new methods to tackle the dilemma. This issue intensified with the debut of Surging Sparks in November 2024, resulting in heightened tensions among collectors, scalpers, and retail outlets. In response to these complications, Walmart has recently launched an online lottery system for acquiring select Pokémon TCG products.

**The Lottery Concept**

While lotteries for obtaining Pokémon cards are fairly commonplace in Japan, they are relatively unfamiliar in the United States. Japanese retailers, such as Amazon, have long adopted this system to regulate demand, aiming to reduce scalping behaviors. Walmart’s innovative approach signifies a transformation in the U.S. market as they aim to offer a more equitable means for customers to obtain these highly coveted items.

Walmart’s lottery, referred to as a “drawing,” enables customers to enter without an immediate financial commitment. This system seeks to ease the frustrations that frequently accompany restock events, where scalpers and automated bots often deplete stock before most customers get a chance to access the site.

**Conditions of Participation**

To engage in Walmart’s lottery, customers must possess a Walmart account. Eligible entries are randomly chosen after the entry period concludes. However, unlike conventional purchase methods, if selected, customers will be automatically billed for the items. Those who do not win will not receive any notification, leaving many prospective buyers uncertain about their status.

Walmart has established stringent rules concerning cancellations and returns. Entrants cannot withdraw their entries once submitted, and any items acquired through this lottery may not be returnable, which raises concerns about consumer rights within retail law.

**Comparative Approaches to Scarcity**

Walmart’s system, though not flawless, presents a more attractive framework compared to the strategies employed by competitors like GameStop and Target. Some retailers have chosen to artificially inflate prices, while others have adopted methods such as unsealing products at the point of sale to discourage scalpers. Although this tactic helps prevent resale, it frustrates collectors who prefer to acquire sealed products.

Lotteries, such as Walmart’s, aim to create an equal opportunity for genuine customers to purchase Pokémon cards. Walmart also plans to filter out suspicious submissions to enhance the integrity of the drawing process.

**Looking Ahead**

The Pokémon TCG market remains unpredictable as excitement grows for the upcoming release of the 30th Anniversary set. As retailers continue to investigate solutions to the persistent shortages and scalping challenges, the future of collectors and enthusiasts remains uncertain. Changes in purchasing systems, like Walmart’s lottery, illustrate broader efforts to navigate this intricate landscape, even if they may not entirely resolve the fundamental issues. Collectors and fans are urged to remain alert and be ready for the shifting dynamics of the Pokémon TCG market.

Well, the chase has begun. Rockstar parent company Take-Two are after the identity of the hacker or hackers behind this week’s GTA 6 leak. Having spent a number of days swatting clips with takedowns, while the leakers dumped more and more across the net, Take-Two have filed multiple subpoenas in federal district court asking Microsoft and Discord to share records related to accounts which have been involved in posting and sharing the leaks.

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### Naughty Dog’s Anticipated Sci-Fi Action Title: Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet

Naughty Dog, celebrated for its critically lauded games like the Uncharted franchise and The Last of Us, has recently garnered attention with its forthcoming sci-fi action title, *Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet*. While the developer has kept details about the game under wraps, recent news indicates that noteworthy advancements are occurring.

#### Motion Capture Achievement

On August 31, 2026, Naughty Dog announced an exhilarating update via its social media platforms, revealing that the motion capture shootings for the game have concluded. An included image showcased Tati Gabrielle, the lead performer of *Intergalactic*, clad in a motion capture suit and holding a plastic firearm prop, representing a pivotal phase in the game’s developmental timeline. The studio voiced its excitement, stating, “This cast nailed it! Eager to reveal their phenomenal work when the moment is right!”

#### Development Progress and Timeline

Although motion capture has been finalized, the exact condition of the game remains ambiguous. Current speculations hint at a possible launch in 2027, which corresponds with standard schedules for Naughty Dog’s prior projects. For example, Nolan North, who played Nathan Drake in the Uncharted series, wrapped up motion capture for *Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End* in October 2015, with the game launching in May 2016 thereafter. Nonetheless, experts and insiders, including gaming journalist Jason Schreier, indicate that *Intergalactic* may not yet be on a similarly streamlined development path.

Previously, it was reported that a substantial amount of Naughty Dog’s resources were redirected to *The Last of Us Online*, a live-service multiplayer venture that was ultimately shelved in 2023. This diversion could potentially leave *Intergalactic* in early stages of development despite the recent success in motion capture.

#### Anticipated Showcase and Hopes

Sony has announced a *State of Play* event for September 3, leading to speculation about the chances of *Intergalactic* featuring during the presentation. Insider NateTheHate has estimated that the game may aim for a second half release in 2027. This showcase presents a chance for Naughty Dog to share updates or unveil new content to alleviate any doubts regarding the game’s progress.

#### Final Thoughts

Although *Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet* remains cloaked in secrecy, the completion of motion capture signifies a major milestone in its development journey. As anticipation grows among the fanbase, the forthcoming *State of Play* showcase might offer insights and information that enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting. With Naughty Dog’s reputation for creating exceptional narrative experiences, the gaming community is eager to see how this new installment will develop.

The moment I knew The Blood of Dawnwalker had it came when, not far in, one of the local peat diggers fell into a big hole. Tasked with finding him by his brother at the start of what seemed a fairly mundane early fetch quest, I rolled my eyes a bit as I slid in to try and locate the poor sod. He was, predictably, cowering in a corner of the cave complex. Right, now to get out of here and claim a lifetime supply of partially decayed vegetation.

Wait, what was that noise? I’ll not spoil the rest of the quest, but suffice it to say that it provided the first taste of Rebel Wolves’ vampire RPG offering the same sort of memorable adventure as the series many of its devs cut their teeth on – CD Projekt’s Witcher and Cyberpunk games.

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**Title: Excitement Builds Around Possible Nintendo Direct Featuring The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Remake**

As thrill envelops the gaming community, rumors are abundant regarding a forthcoming Nintendo Direct that could reveal eagerly awaited details about the remake of *The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time*. This speculation has been mainly fueled by a recent leak associated with Ubisoft’s upcoming release, *Just Dance: Decades of Hits*.

The chatter began following the announcement of *Just Dance: Decades of Hits*, which was made in July. However, initial information was limited, resulting in a wave of leaks from retailers. Dataminers swiftly analyzed the leaked assets to discover tracks and extra details, further intensifying fan interest.

In an official reply to the leaks, Ubisoft conveyed a message highlighting their commitment to providing a complete experience for players. They revealed an upcoming comprehensive announcement of *Decades of Hits* scheduled for September 10, which fans speculate might align with a Nintendo Direct announcement.

The community’s enthusiasm arises from the long-standing connection between Ubisoft and Nintendo, especially with *Just Dance*, which has often been featured during Nintendo Direct presentations due to its widespread appeal on Nintendo systems. Furthermore, the timing fits well with the Tokyo Game Show, set to start on September 17, fostering speculation that Nintendo may take advantage of this period to showcase new titles.

While some fans have keenly analyzed Nintendo’s historical timing of their Directs, there remains a sense of caution. The excitement may be little more than conjecture, reflecting the community’s anticipation for announcements rather than concrete plans from Nintendo.

If a Nintendo Direct is looming, fans are optimistic about significant updates, especially regarding the *Ocarina of Time* remake, which has intrigued many enthusiastic players. Additionally, ongoing speculation pertains to potential release dates for other titles, including *The Duskbloods*.

Amid this excitement, the *Just Dance* community shows annoyance over the leaks, which consistently overshadow their own announcements, as they would prefer the focus to stay on their games without the distractions of persistent rumors and speculation.

As the gaming world looks forward to official confirmations, all attention is directed towards September 10, with hopes high for the return of cherished franchises and the revelation of new adventures from Nintendo.

Before we talk about Sandustry, the excellent new spelunking factory builder from Lantto Games and Hooded Horse, we need to revisit that most quintessentially vidyagame of topics, the post-industrial countryside of Wales. Early on in my recent 105-mile “review” of the MSI Cyborg 14 laptop, I walked through the old slate quarries near the village of Aberllefenni – the longest continually operated slate mining setup in the world until its closure in 2003.

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# The Excitement-Driven Spectacle of Darby Allin in AEW Wrestling

Darby Allin, a mesmerizing presence in the realm of professional wrestling, consistently wins the hearts and anxieties of supporters with his audacious exploits. There is no lack of thrill when he steps into the ring, particularly highlighted during his latest encounter at All Elite Wrestling’s (AEW) yearly All In pay-per-view event held in London. Renowned for his punk rock vibe and fearless stunts, Allin has mastered the fusion of athletic skill with pure boldness.

## An Unforgettable Evening at All In

During the All In event, viewers experienced the comeback of New Level, formerly WWE’s New Day, along with an intense women’s title contest between Willow and Mercedes Mone. Nevertheless, the main attraction for many was undoubtedly Allin’s phenomenal display, wherein he reclaimed his TNT championship from Kevin Knight in a bout marked by bloodshed and unpredictability.

Allin’s hallmark maneuver, the Coffin Drop, became the center of both admiration and dread among spectators. This finisher has him leap from treacherous heights, crossing his arms over his chest like a fallen body. As anticipated, he took pleasure in the thrill of leaping off various structures during a “falls count anywhere” match, raising both the stakes and the visual spectacle.

## The Essence of Darby Allin

For those who are unaware of Darby Allin, he embodies the essence of a risk-taker. A lean, tattooed wrestler adorned with half-skull face paint that symbolizes his turbulent past—having survived a severe car crash—Allin’s persona is a blend of punk rock sensibility and wrestling prowess. His mentorship under the iconic Sting, who occasionally assists him with a baseball bat, further cements Allin’s distinctive stature within the wrestling sphere.

Allin’s affinity for high-risk stunts is only matched by his remarkable talent for engaging with fans. From climbing Mount Everest to proposing atop the world’s tallest mountain, his life choices echo his wrestling philosophy: to embrace life fully, irrespective of the dangers involved.

## The Fear Element

A key characteristic of Allin’s matches is the intense tension they create. Each time he rises to a new height—whether it be a ladder, scaffold, or, as showcased at All In, intricate lighting setups—fans collectively hold their breath. The instant he reaches these heights, it triggers an involuntary response: “Get down from there, Darby Allin! You’re going to injure yourself!” However, the thrill of witnessing his daring jumps keeps audiences at the edge of their seats.

In his recent bout, the arc of Allin’s performance included him pursuing Knight while wielding a bat. Upon spotting a lighting rig, it was evident that he was considering another risky drop. After ascending to an unfathomable height and executing a stunning Coffin Drop onto Knight, he left spectators both thrilled and alarmed.

## An Unorthodox Hero

Darby Allin transcends being merely a daredevil; he is an unconventional hero in the professional wrestling landscape. His capacity to endure pain, bleed, and keep fighting reflects a resilience and charm that is undeniably captivating. He engages in spectacular contests where he frequently favors risk over caution, making him a standout performer in AEW.

While many fans cheer for his daring acts, there exists a shared desire for his safety. Viewers often find themselves simultaneously exhilarated and anxious due to his relentless quest for extreme stunts. They admire his zeal and dedication to breaking barriers but also hope for a degree of restraint to secure his longevity in the sport.

## Conclusion

Darby Allin exemplifies the wrestling spirit through his bold performances and compelling storyline. Whether scaling heights or executing hazardous maneuvers, he enthralls audiences and leaves them longing for more. His distinctive style not only characterizes his career but also challenges the norms of professional wrestling, demonstrating that in the entertainment world, thrills can coalesce with profound vulnerability and determination. As he continues to ascend, fans will undoubtedly remain close, both eager for his next leap and apprehensive about its ramifications.

I’ve already humiliated myself attempting to describe the sensory enormity that is Cicadamata”, the new movement shooter from flowergarden with the tricksy title punctuation, so instead of writing additional sentences such as “this game is like drinking the aurora borealis” (OK, one more) or “this game is like surfing the Niagara Falls during a freak shower of potassium pellets” (enough!), I’m just going to transcribe the latest trailer.

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**Sony’s Strategic Emphasis on PS5 Monetization: Perspectives from CEO Hiroki Totoki**

As the gaming market adapts, Sony’s strategy regarding its PlayStation 5 (PS5) underscores a change in emphasis under the guidance of Hiroki Totoki, the company’s president and CEO. With the PlayStation 6 (PS6) not anticipated to launch until 2028, Totoki’s revelations during a recent discussion with *The Wall Street Journal* showcase a distinct priority: optimizing revenue from the current PS5 user demographic instead of aggressively pursuing further console sales.

### Current Status of PlayStation 5 Sales

The PS5 has recently undergone its initial price increase, climbing by about 30% since its 2020 debut due to persistent supply chain issues and rising component expenses. Such a notable price increase undeniably affects sales; however, Totoki asserts that this change has transpired late enough in the console’s timeline that it will not significantly obstruct profits. He voiced assurance that the PS5 is in a solid position, stressing that they are well into the latter part of its lifecycle and do not necessitate immediate aggressive selling tactics.

### User Base and Recurring Revenue

Sony currently has over 125 million registered PS Plus subscribers. Totoki’s plan centers on effectively monetizing this established customer base. With the average subscription price estimated at $16.99, this equates to over $2.1 billion in monthly income, highlighting the financial sustainability of prioritizing user engagement over hardware sales.

Additionally, Sony reaps benefits from both first-party and third-party game transactions via the PS5, generating substantial profit margins without depending exclusively on new console sales. As the industry transitions towards a digital-first framework, where physical retail continues to decline, the scope for generating revenue from existing products and services remains strong.

### The Path Ahead

Although Totoki’s strategy does prompt inquiries about future price changes for PS Plus and how Sony intends to further monetize its gaming ecosystem, the interview did not delve deeply into these urgent issues. There was no questioning regarding the direction for a PS6 or plans for launching new hardware in the near future.

In conclusion, Sony’s strategic shift under Hiroki Totoki focuses on leveraging the success of the PS5 through user engagement and subscription-based income. As the company maneuvers through the current gaming environment, its emphasis is less on the console’s lifespan and more on the potential profitability of its current user base—a strategy that could redefine its future in the gaming sector.