Gait Games

Is it worth the hype?

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At Digital Dragons this year I somehow found myself attending a panel about games industry investment and publishing deals, featuring various senior M&A people gathered under the dread banner of “Capital Reality”. It felt like visiting another planet, occupied by towering creatures of gold and green paper, who spoke an earwax-curdling vocabulary of phrases like “there’s dry powder out there, but I’m seeing dealflop”.

The best practice when you are stranded on a strange new world is to bond with local lifeforms in the most elementary and primordial terms. In this case, I established a point of connection with Victor Lee, director of Europe investments for Subnautica 2 publisher Krafton. It turns out he is as weary and confused and petulant about the abundance of roguelike deckbuilders as I.

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### The Diminishing Popularity of Isekai and Live-Service Trends: A Critical Year for Kadokawa and Game Publishers

In 2026, the entertainment landscape seems to be evolving, as both the anime and video game sectors contend with the repercussions of an overdependence on specific genres. Kadokawa, a significant entity in publishing, has disclosed a shocking 51.3-percent decline in operating profits for its fiscal year ending March 2026. The organization attributes this downturn to its overwhelming emphasis on the isekai genre, which has become emblematic of a creative halt in the anime and manga industries.

#### Kadokawa’s Economic Challenges

Kadokawa’s most recent fiscal earnings report reveals a concerning trend regarding profitability. The conglomerate’s substantial investment in isekai tales—narratives centered on characters who are transported to extraordinary realms—has faced criticism for resulting in a scarcity of innovation. Works like *A Harem in a Fantasy World Labyrinth* and *The Daily Life of a Middle-Aged Online Shopper in Another World* illustrate this pattern, with the publisher admitting that the output has led to numerous works lacking in quality and failing to engage the audience.

In its report, Kadokawa highlighted the dangers of “overdependence on established successful patterns,” further indicating that this inclination has hindered the advent of new successful titles. It is notable that this self-reflection comes from the publisher behind *Isekai Quartet*, a series that humorously critiques the saturation of isekai content in the industry.

#### Parallels with the Gaming Sector

The obstacles faced by Kadokawa resonate with the fluctuating circumstances of video game publishers, particularly those that have adopted the live-service approach. Once hailed as the future of gaming, the live-service model has rapidly transformed into what some refer to as a “live-service graveyard.” Major companies like Amazon have recently closed their live-service initiatives, and Sega has cited declining confidence in this model as a rationale for scrapping its ambitious “Super Game.”

A stark contrast is noticeable in the gaming sector, where even giants like Epic Games are witnessing drops in player engagement and revenue from franchises such as *Fortnite*. Sony’s troubles with its games-as-a-service initiatives further highlight the industry’s collective error in gauging the sustainability of such models.

#### Cultural Similarities

The correlation between the anime industry’s declining interest in isekai narratives and the gaming industry’s retreat from live-service options is striking. Both fields seem to be facing the limitations of formulaic content and the diminishing returns of pursuing trends. This mirrors a larger cultural trend where audiences increasingly yearn for originality and depth over repetitive concepts.

Interestingly, the connections between Kadokawa and the video game sector are noteworthy. Kadokawa possesses the manga publishing rights to *Sword Art Online*, a series crucial in popularizing the isekai genre. Ironically, the narrative examines the consequences of being ensnared in a live-service game world, potentially reflecting current industry challenges eerily.

#### Future Outlook

As the isekai genre and live-service games wane in popularity, there is a flicker of hope for a renaissance in both anime and gaming. The decline of these once-prevalent trends indicates a shift toward original storytelling and deeper engagement with audiences. As fans and consumers call for fresh narratives, there lies an opportunity for recovery and revitalization in both media.

For Kadokawa and other publishers, this period may act as a catalyst for transformation. As the industry progresses, it is vital for creators to focus on innovation over replication, recognizing that the audience’s desire for new experiences is more significant than ever. The year 2026 could signify a pivotal moment, allowing for a resurgence of creativity in both animation and gaming.

Hasbro have opted to pull the publishing plug on the Dungeons and Dragons action game they and developers Giant Skull announced last June. Said plug was reportedly pulled at some point earlier this year, leaving the studio headed by former Star Wars Jedi series director Stig Asmussen hunting for a new publishing deal.

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**Revamp of Steam’s Tagging System: An In-Depth Update**

Steam, the premier digital distribution service for PC gaming, is undertaking major modifications to its game tagging system for the first time in years. This revamp aims to improve the clarity and functionality of the classifications present on Valve’s storefront, aiding both gamers and developers. The initiative entails the elimination of outdated tags, the introduction of new ones, and modifications to current classifications.

**Essential Modifications in the Tagging System**

As outlined in a recent blog post from Valve, the update incorporates the addition of 17 new tags and the elimination of 28 others. Furthermore, certain tags have been consolidated or renamed. The goal of these modifications is to assist players in better identifying games that correspond to their interests and to allow Steam to deliver more precise recommendations based on these updated classifications.

**Tags Being Eliminated**

The subsequent tags will cease to be part of Steam’s catalog:

– 3D Vision
– Ambient
– America
– Blood
– Crowdfunded
– Cult Classic
– Documentary
– Drama
– Dungeons & Dragons
– Electronic
– Experience
– Feature Film
– Foreign
– GameMaker
– Games Workshop
– Illuminati
– Kickstarter
– LEGO
– Masterpiece
– Mature
– Movie
– Narration
– NSFW
– Roguevania
– RPGMaker
– Warhammer 40K
– Web Publishing
– Well-Written

**New Tags Being Added**

Conversely, Steam is unveiling a selection of new tags that mirror the shifting landscape of gaming. The new tags consist of:

– **Bullet Heaven**: Emphasis on enhancement while automatically attacking waves of foes.
– **Desktop Companion**: Games that occupy a portion of your display while multitasking.
– **Organizing**: Gameplay centered on tidying up and arranging items.
– **Cleaning**: The gratifying act of erasing dirt from surfaces.
– **Decorating**: Creative arrangement of virtual furnishings and objects.
– **Wuxia**: Historical fantasy quests featuring martial arts.
– **Xianxia**: Fantasy quests focused on developing supernatural powers.
– **Falling Blocks**: Gameplay that involves organizing descending blocks.
– **Espionage**: Gameplay centered on surveillance and gathering intelligence.
– **Samurai**: Games highlighting Japanese warriors renowned for their loyalty and abilities.
– **Zoo**: Management of a park housing wild creatures.
– **Wolves**: Concentrated on the species Canis Lupus.
– **Capybaras**: Featuring the largest rodent species.
– **Animals**: Tagging a wide variety of animal classifications.
– **Cult**: Representing small groups with extreme devotion.
– **Poker**: Gameplay involving stakes and deception.
– **Language Learning**: Focused on teaching and acquiring new languages.

This transition demonstrates Valve’s aim to focus on more specific descriptors instead of ambiguous generalities. The rise of tags like “Desktop Companion” and the decline of “Roguevania” indicate evolving gaming trends, alongside an increased acknowledgment of genres from China.

**Merging and Renaming of Tags**

Additionally, certain existing tags are being combined or renamed for enhanced clarity. For instance, “Conversation” has been revised to “Dialogue Heavy,” and “Clicker” is now referred to as “Incremental.”

**Current Most Popular Tags**

In line with this tagging revamp, Valve also revealed the most widely used tags presently available on Steam. “Singleplayer” remains at the forefront, linked to approximately 98,000 games, accounting for about 62% of the platform, followed by the “Indie” tag with around 82,000 games, or about 53% of Steam’s total library.

**Conclusion**

The overhaul of Steam’s tagging system represents a crucial movement towards improving the gaming experience on its platform. By streamlining classifications and introducing tags that resonate with current trends and player interests, Valve is enhancing discoverability and ensuring players can locate the games that align best with their preferences. As these changes take effect, it will be captivating to watch how they impact player behavior and game discovery on Steam.

The biggest videogames are taking longer to make, according to Diablo 4 lead engine engineer Marcin Undak, and one consequence is that there are fewer junior openings at industry dreadnoughts like Blizzard and CD Projekt, because companies prefer to hire juniors right at the start of development. This isn’t ideal, Undak suggested, because “the best teams” have a healthy mixture of crabby old wizards and sparky bantlings. OK, he did not call anybody either a wizard or a bantling. Maybe next time.

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**To Early Access or Not: A Thorough Exploration of Subnautica 2**

The discussion around the early access model in gaming continues to evoke strong sentiments within the community. This has become especially prominent in reference to recent titles, like the eagerly awaited *Subnautica 2*. While early access provides players with a preview of incomplete projects and encourages them to impact development, it concurrently risks disrupting their gaming journey.

*Subnautica 2*, crafted by Unknown Worlds, carries forward the cherished oceanic exploration game that won players over during its initial launch. The first game flourished due to its early access phase from 2015 to 2018, during which player feedback facilitated continuous enhancements. A similar strategy appears to be in place for *Subnautica 2*, yet this prompts a vital question: Is engaging with it early a worthwhile commitment of your time and resources at this moment?

### The Appeal of Early Access

In today’s gaming landscape frequently exploiting the fear of missing out (FOMO), early access can seem like an enticing possibility. For a cost—often marked up for a few days of advance play—gamers find themselves drawn to that enticing new title. Nonetheless, as seasoned developers continue to roll out incomplete content, the allure of early access may diminish.

Currently offered in early access, *Subnautica 2* showcases a remarkable scope that can easily captivate players for more than twenty hours. This is quite a feat for an early version of a game, leaving many eager to delve into its depths. However, this enthusiasm faces hurdles due to worries about unfinished elements and the confines of the gameplay loop.

### Present Gameplay Experience

Upon initiating *Subnautica 2*, players find themselves crash-landed on an enigmatic alien planet accompanied by a new AI figure named NoA, who acts as a guide with dubious intentions. The initial gameplay follows a reminiscent structure of exploration and task fulfillment, yet the experience deviates from its predecessor. While *Subnautica* thrived on feelings of discovery and environmental obstacles, *Subnautica 2* risks appearing more linear and restricted.

Players have expressed frustrations, including limited personal storage and the sluggish advancement of oxygen enhancements. These mechanics can detract from enjoyment, especially for those familiar with the more fluid progression found in the first game. The narrative currently hinges on fetch quests, which, instead of enriching the experience, might dilute it by rendering gameplay monotonous.

### A Matter of Patience

The early access model does permit players to participate in shaping the game, but this is accompanied by the awareness that much of what exists at present may not reflect the final product. The narrative framework and gameplay mechanics may undergo extensive revisions, raising legitimate concerns about having to restart the game with significant updates.

As players navigate through the current early access material, encounters like the sudden “Thank you for playing!” message can lead to a feeling of disappointment. While there’s a plethora of content available, it eventually concludes, leaving players craving more while contemplating the implications of what lies ahead.

### Conclusion: The Argument for Delay

In the end, while *Subnautica 2* is certainly a robust game in its present state, the argument for delaying full immersion grows compelling. The experience can be affected by rough gameplay elements and an incomplete narrative arc that may frustrate players seeking a more well-rounded story experience from the beginning.

If gamers aim to relish what is likely to become a landmark title upon its eventual release, it might be prudent to resist the temptation of early access. Incorporating *Subnautica 2* into one’s gaming backlog could cultivate the patience required to embrace its complete potential, ensuring a more fulfilling experience once the game is refined and finished. In an industry characterized by haste and early access allure, perhaps the wisest approach is simply to wait for the waters to calm.

# Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight – A Fresh Perspective on the Caped Crusader

Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight is now accessible on PS5, Xbox, and PC, presenting players with a distinctive fusion of comic book history and open-world action reminiscent of the celebrated Arkham series. While it is not a new addition to the Arkham franchise, it effectively embodies much of what fans appreciate about the series, delivering a lively Gotham City experience combined with the appeal of Lego.

## A Distinctive Fusion of Batman Lore

In contrast to earlier Lego games that closely adhered to traditional storylines or showcased different interpretations of Batman media, Legacy of the Dark Knight presents an original story that remixes elements from various Batman films and animated shows. This fan-focused strategy allows players to explore a broad narrative that, though sometimes intricate, provides enjoyable nods to cherished Batman moments and characters.

One notable feature of the game is its remarkable open-world setting, which closely mirrors the design and mechanics found in Rocksteady’s Arkham titles. Players can soar through Gotham, tackle Riddler puzzles, and engage in exhilarating combat that feels both enjoyable and gratifying.

## Gameplay Mechanics: Known Yet Alluring

The fundamental gameplay mechanics in Legacy of the Dark Knight draw from the Arkham series. Combat involves connecting combos, employing different tactics to outwit adversaries, and incorporating cooperative play with various characters, each possessing unique talents. Although the selection of characters is considerably smaller than in previous Lego games, with players mainly choosing from Batman, Jim Gordon, Robin, Catwoman, Nightwing, Batgirl, and Talia, each character adds their unique flavor to the gameplay.

Navigating the city feels effortless and thrilling, especially as players make use of Batman’s grappling hook and cape akin to Arkham City. Furthermore, the introduction of a drivable Batmobile enriches the exploration experience, enabling varied and enjoyable gameplay.

### Riddler Challenges and Collectibles

The game features numerous Riddler puzzles, reminiscent of the challenges found in the Arkham series. These puzzles, while not too complex, add a satisfying element of gameplay for collectors and completionists alike. Players can also collect items such as wanted posters and Bat Coins throughout the city, which further enhances the exploration.

## Shortcomings in Stealth Mechanics

Despite the game’s strengths, the stealth mechanics do not entirely reach the level of engagement found in Arkham games. The enemy AI can be simplistic, making stealth encounters less fulfilling than they could be. Certain areas are not always crafted to encourage intricate stealth gameplay, leaving something to be desired, especially for genre enthusiasts.

## Narrative Journey

Experiencing the main storyline, which lasts about 12 hours, can feel fragmented as it shifts through various Batman timelines and themes. The first half constructs an engaging narrative around the Joker’s evolution, but it struggles to sustain momentum in the latter half. Co-op gameplay is integrated throughout, imposing certain narrative limits, which restrict character interactions and storytelling depth.

## Visuals and Atmosphere

Gotham City in Legacy of the Dark Knight emerges as one of the most visually striking open-world landscapes in recent gaming history. The design blends the mainstream aesthetic associated with the Arkham series with nostalgic touches from the 80s and 90s Batman films, creating an intricate, immersive world brimming with life. The nighttime ambiance and sporadic rain enhance the vibrant atmosphere, showcasing a city rich in detail and character.

Nevertheless, a significant drawback arises from excessive character dialogue and radio chatter that can become overwhelming, detracting from the exploration experience. Balancing this conversation and giving players the option to reduce it could greatly enhance overall enjoyment.

## Conclusion

Despite its minor shortcomings, Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight is an outstanding addition for gamers and Batman fans alike. The game successfully captures the essence of the Arkham series while delivering a fresh and engaging Lego adventure. With stunning visuals, entertaining combat, and a satisfying array of puzzles, it offers a worthy journey through Gotham that will resonate with players of all ages. Whether played solo or with friends, lovers of both Lego and Batman should find this title to be a rewarding experience.

### Xbox Game Pass Additions for May 2026

In a thrilling update for members, Xbox has disclosed its Game Pass additions for the latter part of May 2026. This batch features major titles and cherished classics that appeal to a broad spectrum of gaming fans. The standout of this update is the arrival of **Forza Horizon 6**, set for release on May 19. This newest entry in the iconic racing series is set to provide the exhilarating open-world adventure fans have eagerly anticipated.

#### Noteworthy Game Pass Additions

1. **Forza Horizon 6** (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC) – May 19
– This much-anticipated exclusive is destined to be the highlight of the month, allowing players to immerse themselves in racing and exploration within an expansive, intricately designed environment.

2. **Dead Static Drive** (Cloud, Console, and PC) – May 20
– A distinctive addition that joins the Game Pass Premium tier, offering an indie take on driving and survival gameplay.

3. **My Friend Peppa Pig** (Cloud, Console, and PC) – May 20
– A game designed for families that welcomes young players into the cherished universe of Peppa Pig.

4. **Pigeon Simulator** (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC) – May 20
– This whimsical simulation title lets players experience life from a pigeon’s perspective in a humorous context.

5. **Remnant II** (Cloud, Console, and PC) – May 20
– This title makes its return to the service, showcasing thrilling cooperative gameplay set in a post-apocalyptic landscape.

6. **Winter Burrow** (Cloud, Console, and PC) – May 20
– Bringing cozy gaming aesthetics, this title is perfect for those seeking a more relaxed gameplay experience.

7. **Luna Abyss** (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) – May 21
– A simultaneous release that merges elements of bullet hell with horror within an innovative first-person shooting format.

8. **Escape Simulator** (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) – May 26
– Promoting collaboration and critical thought, this game challenges players to solve puzzles in an escape room setting.

9. **Echo Generation 2** (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) – May 27
– A sequel that is set to elevate the charm and escapades of the original.

10. **The Outer Worlds: Spacer’s Choice Edition** (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) – May 27
– This edition of the celebrated RPG introduces new content and improvements for gamers.

11. **Crashout Crew** (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC) – May 28
– A competitive party game that features racing and organizing packages with forklifts, adding a dynamic twist.

12. **Kabuto Park** (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) – May 28
– A gentle RPG focused on bug-collecting, perfect for a soothing gaming experience.

13. **Final Fantasy VI** (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) – June 2
– The treasured classic finally makes its way to Game Pass, inviting both newcomers and seasoned fans to revisit its enchanting narrative, memorable characters, and iconic soundtrack.

14. **Jurassic World Evolution 3** (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) – June 2
– Continuing the theme of dinosaur simulation games, this allows players to construct and oversee their very own Jurassic Park.

#### Conclusion

With a blend of fresh launches and returning beloved titles, May 2026 is poised to be an exhilarating month for Xbox Game Pass members. Whether you’re racing in **Forza Horizon 6**, solving challenges in **Escape Simulator**, or revisiting the classic allure of **Final Fantasy VI**, an array of captivating experiences awaits. This collection of games caters to diverse preferences, ensuring that players of all ages will discover something enjoyable this month.

**An Extraordinary Replica: Redesigning the Kanto Region in Pokémon Pokopia**

More than two months after its debut, the gaming community has observed an astounding achievement: a nearly finished, predominantly 1:1 replica of the Kanto region in *Pokémon Pokopia*. This remarkable undertaking is the work of Reddit user u/starguy13, who has been chronicling their reconstruction journey since the game’s release. Leveraging the empty Palette Town map, they aimed to create a faithful representation of the Kanto map from the original *Pokémon* titles, achieving impressive results that can be seen through their work-in-progress (WIP) photos shared on social media.

Despite the impressive nature of this initiative, starguy13 encountered several obstacles that resulted in some inconsistencies in the map layout. The user acknowledged not following the classic “measure twice, cut once” principle, which led them to commence their construction in an unsuitable location. As a result, this miscalculation left insufficient space on one side of the map while providing too much space on the other. To address these challenges, they had to condense certain sections of the map. As starguy13 remarked, “With the loss of routes 9, 13, 14, 15, 16, 24, and 25; losing most of routes 8, 10, 12, and 17; having to shrink Cerulean, Celadon, and Fuchsia Cities; AND having to fudge the spatial relationships of the locations a bit… yes, it can be done.”

In addition to tackling spatial obstacles, starguy13 infused some intriguing details into their reimagining. While not every building has authentic interiors, select locations, such as Professor Oak’s Lab and Mt. Moon, feature interiors that players can navigate in full, reminiscent of the original games. However, some regions like Diglett Cave were simplified to form a standard tunnel instead of creating a detailed interior.

Interestingly, the initial measurement challenges resulted in an unforeseen benefit: extra space on the western side of the map. Starguy13 intends to use this area to introduce Route 29, which links Victory Road and the Pokémon League to Johto, along with New Bark Town. However, they pointed out that there isn’t enough room to include the entirety of Johto.

This remarkable endeavor highlights the creativity and commitment of the Pokémon community. While starguy13’s contributions are distinctive, they are part of a wider trend where various creators have also begun constructing portions of Kanto or recreating elements from other *Pokémon* titles. Prominent instances include recreations from the *Mystery Dungeon* series, complete towns from *Pokémon Ruby/Sapphire/Emerald*, and iconic sites like Prism Tower from *Pokémon X and Y*. Furthermore, some players have focused their efforts on reviving aspects of Kanto, such as the Pewter Museum, exemplifying the community’s shared passion and creativity.

The ongoing progress of these projects showcases the strength of collaboration and creativity within the gaming community, injecting fresh energy into classic regions and cherished memories from the *Pokémon* franchise.