Gait Games

In case you missed it, September happened. Technically it’s still happening, and we have one more exclusive post for RPS Premium Supporters coming this week, but this time I fancy doing the monthly rewards roundup within the month being rounded up. Lest armoured date pedants infiltrate my flat with breaching charges, and start hitting my shins with their pernickety sticks.

Thanks again to all our Supporters, preem or otherwise, and turbo double-thanks to anyone who filled in our Supporters survey. This has granted us some immensely helpful guidance on how to steer Supp rewards in the future, as well as some important feedback on the site more generally. You’re all, and I don’t say this about a lot of people, da best.

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### The Halo Franchise’s Controversial Shift Under Activision: Community Responses and Repercussions

In recent weeks, the gaming community has been alive with discussions about the legendary Halo franchise, especially after the reorganization of its development studio. Following Xbox’s choice to shift Halo Studios, formerly known as 343 Industries, under Activision’s management, reactions have emerged from content creators and past Halo developers. This change has not only sparked conversations about the franchise’s future but has also fueled controversies regarding interaction with the community.

#### The Claims of a Blacklist

On September 28, a noteworthy allegation arose when YouTuber and Halo insider Rebs Gaming claimed that the studio had blacklisted fellow content creator HiddenXperia because of his critical view of the franchise. He further stated that Halo leadership was observing content to penalize anyone who did not uphold a positive narrative. This allegation initiated further debates within the community, particularly when notable creator Destin Legarie conveyed disappointment over the purported conduct.

In light of the unrest, Halo Studios’ community director, Brian Jarrard, took to social media to directly deny the claims. He labeled the notion of a “leadership blacklist” as “irritatingly false,” stressing that the studio does not punish creators for their genuine feedback. Jarrard indicated that it is typical for studios to favor positive reviews, especially concerning early access and review copies designed to generate interest and awareness.

#### Jarrard’s Counterargument and Perspective

In his thorough defense, Jarrard clarified that large game development involves numerous stakeholders and intricate decisions. He explained that when a game is launched with elements that might frustrate fans or creators, it does not mean that the studio was only listening to positive input. Jarrard highlighted the significance of diverse feedback from community members, noting that constructive criticism is as valued as positive interactions.

He described the decision-making process as complex, shaped by project limitations, stakeholder visions, and varying preferences among distinct groups. Additionally, Jarrard recognized the enthusiastic Halo community, expressing gratitude for feedback given respectfully, as it is crucial to shaping future iterations of the franchise.

#### Continuing Strains and Community Responses

Despite Jarrard’s efforts to clarify the situation, unrest continues to simmer in the Halo community. Some members have accused him of lacking transparency, interpreting his comments regarding confidentiality agreements (NDAs) as a thinly veiled threat to discourage honest feedback from creators. Jarrard responded to this interpretation, asserting that his intention was merely to warn creators rather than intimidate them.

These tensions shed light on the delicate relationship between game developers and their communities, especially when franchises like Halo undergo major transformations. The scrutiny from both fans and creators can create an atmosphere filled with speculation and accusations, making effective communication a daunting task for studios.

#### Conclusion

The transition of Halo under Activision’s oversight has ignited significant discussion about transparency, community interaction, and the challenges developers encounter in addressing criticism. As the franchise progresses, the hope remains that both the studio and its community can cultivate a more balanced relationship, ensuring that the cherished Halo series continues to prosper in a way that honors the voices of its devoted fanbase.

It has perhaps never been easier to join a witch or wizard school without being a Guy Who Rhymes With Bally Trotter. Academies of the occult abound in videogames. True, there has yet to be an amazing Little Witch Academia adaptation, and I’m still waiting for that Arbitrary Metric take on Naomi Novik’s A Deadly Education, to say nothing of Failbetter’s take on Terry Pratchett’s Equal Rites, but in the short term, I’ve been enjoying the demo for Songs of Glimmerwick, which goes on sale today.

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### Performance Challenges and Remedies for The Witcher 3 Remastered on PC

The eagerly awaited remastered edition of *The Witcher 3* has officially debuted, enticing both long-time fans and new players to rekindle their love for the cherished RPG. Nevertheless, certain PC users have encountered pronounced performance challenges following the launch. Fortunately, there are several solutions available that may assist in boosting performance until CD Projekt Red (CDPR) implements additional optimizations.

#### Turn Off Nvidia Hairworks

CDPR has promptly recognized a major performance-related problem tied to Nvidia’s Hairworks graphics technology. On September 30, the official *Witcher* account shared a Public Service Announcement suggesting players disable Hairworks. The studio stated, “We’ve identified an issue related to NVIDIA Hairworks that may significantly impact performance.” Players are encouraged to switch off this feature until a patch is provided to rectify the situation.

Hairworks is renowned for its intricate rendering of hair and fur, which enhances the game’s visual fidelity. Yet, this added realism seems to come at a considerable performance cost in the remastered edition. Many users have voiced similar concerns on forums, with findings suggesting that disabling Hairworks can result in a more stable gameplay experience.

#### Employ Mods for Enhancement

For those seeking different solutions, there is a mod available titled “Path Tracing and Ray Tracing Optimization (Remastered).” This mod aims to boost performance by refining ray tracing features within the game. As stated by the modder, HourLines, players can anticipate efficiency improvements of up to 30% in various game areas. However, it should be noted that using this mod might lead to darker indoor environments and a slight lag in the global illumination’s response to lighting alterations.

Implementing this mod may necessitate additional steps, but it can act as a temporary remedy for those facing notable performance declines while navigating the vast world of *The Witcher 3*.

#### Conclusion

In conclusion, while *The Witcher 3 Remastered* has reinstated the captivating realm of Geralt of Rivia, some technical difficulties have detracted from the experience for certain players. Disabling Nvidia Hairworks and utilizing optimization mods are two practical tactics players can employ to alleviate performance challenges. As CD Projekt Red endeavors to roll out updates to address these issues, players may find these approaches beneficial in enhancing their gameplay enjoyment.

Deadpool’s a weird character. Like fellow mutant Wolverine, Wade Wilson is a trained killer whose primary superpower is a healing factor that lets him recover and reform from any wound, even if bisected or decapitated. Unlike Wolverine, Wade knows he’s in a fictional medium, be it a comic book, movie, or game, and physically can’t stop quipping about that fact and referencing things in and out of his world. It’s up to the writer whether this is sheer coincidence (as in, he’s genuinely just psychotic and his insane ramblings happen to be the truth), or a true meta awareness granting him power over narrative itself.

This is a trait that Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls handles smartly, which in a way is surprising, because it usually makes him quite annoying. In most appearances, Deadpool references everything — nothing is safe. Marvel editorial, art of all mediums new and old, assorted real-life celebrity drama, specific stories from comics’ past (not just Marvel, either), and more I can’t think of right now; all of it ripe fruit for Wade to riff on in one of the many jokes-per-minute spouting from his scarred mouth. This became true of the vast majority of his comic runs, once the meta awareness, fourth-wall-breaking became a central part of his character identity, and defined non-comic appearances like High Moon’s 2013 Deadpool game and Ryan Reynolds’ (admittedly, kinda perfect) portrayal from the 2016 film onwards. No, X-Men Origins: Wolverine does not count.

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### The Transformation of Xbox Cloud Gaming: Hurdles and Adjustments

A few years back, Xbox seemed wholeheartedly dedicated to the prospect of cloud gaming, unveiling a vision that everything truly revolved around an Xbox. By 2024, cloud gaming was perceived as a hopeful path, although users might have deemed the quality somewhat below their standards. Fast forward to 2026, and the situation has changed significantly. Reports suggest that some owners of Samsung TVs will lose their access to Xbox Cloud Gaming come November, reducing streaming access from an unrestricted service to merely 15 hours a week, with extra fees imposed thereafter for additional usage.

The change in approach was underscored in a recent interview with the newly appointed Xbox CEO Asha Sharma, where sources indicated that the eagerly awaited Xbox Cloud Controller project was scrapped following the Activision acquisition. It appears the vision of an all-encompassing cloud gaming ecosystem is fading.

#### The Cloud Controller and Its Regulatory Consequences

The Xbox Cloud Controller, which emerged in leaks earlier this year, is reportedly still in some developmental stage as per an Xbox representative. Nonetheless, previous reports indicated that development encountered difficulties post-Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard. Regulatory issues had surfaced, notably from the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority, concerning Microsoft’s capacity to dominate the cloud gaming sector. Although these worries were ultimately addressed, some speculate that Microsoft may have delayed the Cloud Controller project to placate regulators.

Recent updates imply that while the project could be revived, Microsoft’s sense of urgency and dedication regarding cloud gaming seems to be waning.

#### Reductions in Samsung TV Access and Data Usage

In addition to the uncertainty surrounding the Cloud Controller, new reports have surfaced indicating that Samsung Smart TVs from 2020 will lose compatibility with the Xbox app beginning November 3. The justification provided was that updates to the technology enabling Xbox Cloud Gaming were not compatible with the older operating systems of these models. However, many are questioning the logic behind this choice, as the app operates as a web service, theoretically usable on any web-enabled device.

Windows Central speculates that Microsoft might be selectively cutting off access to these older models to conserve bandwidth, signaling a shift away from cultivating a vast user base for cloud gaming.

#### The Pattern of Restrictions on Cloud Gaming

This limitation on access to cloud gaming aligns with other recent trends, such as the reduction of cloud streaming on Game Pass’s premier subscription service to just 15 hours per week, down from unlimited access. This trend indicates a clear departure from Microsoft’s earlier aspirations to widen cloud streaming’s appeal across multiple devices. Earlier this year, Microsoft also stepped back from its “This Is An Xbox” marketing campaign, further suggesting a diminished focus on diversifying gaming experiences via cloud technology.

#### Performance Challenges and Market Feasibility

Despite some enhancements in latency since Google’s setbacks with its Stadia cloud gaming service, the technology still faces difficulties in providing high-resolution gameplay at stable frame rates. These constraints create trade-offs that may alienate more serious gamers, who pursue the quality standards of traditional gaming experiences. While cloud gaming might work well for casual gamers using mobile devices, its broader market attractiveness remains in doubt.

As Xbox navigates the intricacies of their cloud gaming strategy, ambitions to lead this emerging medium now seem eclipsed by operational challenges and changing market dynamics. The expected monopoly in this field appears increasingly improbable, as Microsoft maneuvers through the obstacles in sustaining a competitive cloud gaming offering.

Fantasy RPG Queen’s Domain is frequently likened by certain other websites to From Software’s King’s Field games and The Elder Scrolls 3: Morrowind, so I’m going to put my nose in the air and forcibly compare it to something else. Looks like, errrrrr, a first-person Ico with Mayan architectural influences, maybe a touch of Final Fantasy’s Ivalice period here and there. It’s set on an island with shorelines you could compare to Halo’s Silent Cartographer level, if you rubbed your eyes with breakfast cereal. Have I thoroughly confused you? Don’t worry, here is a trailer.

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### October’s Free PS Plus Games: Welcoming the Spooky Season

With the arrival of October, the autumn season ushers in cooler temperatures, vibrant leaves falling, and a surge of spooky celebrations. It’s a period marked by an influx of horror films and pumpkins dominating home decorations. For PlayStation Plus (PS Plus) subscribers, October signifies the introduction of new complimentary games. This month showcases titles that appeal to gamers with diverse tastes, including one that perfectly fits the Halloween vibe.

On September 30, PlayStation announced the lineup for its monthly games in October, which will be available to all PS Plus members starting from October 6. Once these titles are included in your library, they can be downloaded and played at any time, as long as you maintain an active PS Plus Essential, Extra, or Premium subscription.

#### October’s Game Lineup

Here’s what subscribers can anticipate this month:

– **F1 25** – Available on PS5
– **Hunt: Showdown 1896** – Available on PS5
– **Earth Defense Force: World Brothers 2** – Available on PS4 and PS5

It’s essential to highlight that these games will be accessible for free only until November 2, after which a new selection of titles will replace them.

#### The Spooky Connection

While only **Hunt: Showdown 1896** invokes a chilling atmosphere fitting for Halloween, it stands out for players seeking a hint of spookiness. This PvPvE multiplayer shooter pits players against one another as well as against terrifying creatures, aligning it with the season’s theme. Conversely, both **F1 25** and **Earth Defense Force: World Brothers 2**, though enjoyable, miss that quintessential horror aspect. This prompts the question for many regarding the absence of traditional horror titles in October’s offerings during this spooky season.

#### Why Players Should Grab the Titles

Despite the absence of a complete horror-themed selection, **Hunt: Showdown** is a compelling freebie that many gamers have wanted to try but may have been reluctant to purchase without friends. This chance to immerse oneself in a game rich in atmosphere, filled with daunting marshes and foreboding forests, could finally entice players to collaborate for cooperative or competitive gameplay.

Moreover, players should not forget to seize September’s free games, which feature **Sniper Elite: Resistance**, **MLB The Show 26**, **Wobbly Life**, and **Chained Echoes**, available to add to libraries until October 5.

### Conclusion

As the days become shorter and the nights resonate with the eerie sounds of autumn, this October delivers a blend of racing excitement and spooky multiplayer experiences to PS Plus subscribers. Whether you’re racing through tracks in **F1 25** or hunting for dark beings in **Hunt: Showdown**, there’s something for everyone to relish this month. Ensure you don’t miss out on these time-sensitive offerings as November approaches!

No More Heroes and Killer7 developers Grasshopper Manufacture have split from erstwhile parent company NetEase, founder Goichi “Suda51” Suda has announced. NetEase bought them back in 2021, as part of the acquisition of Gungho Online Entertainment. Now, they’re going indie. According to Suda, the change reflects “a strong desire to deliver titles in an even wider variety of styles to video game lovers everywhere”.

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**Microsoft’s Major Xbox Overhaul: A Pivotal Moment**

In recent months, Microsoft has initiated a major reorganization of its Xbox division, sparking speculation regarding the prospect of the gaming sector within the tech company. CEO Asha Sharma has been outspoken in refuting any plans to sell Xbox, declaring, “Xbox is not for sale.” This statement arises alongside reports indicating that extensive layoffs and structural shifts might hint at a potential divestiture or spin-off of the gaming division.

Traditionally, the Xbox division has been an incongruous element within Microsoft’s broader array of services, which predominantly emphasizes cloud computing and artificial intelligence. Despite the groundbreaking $70 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard in 2023 intended to bolster Xbox’s stature, hardware sales have faltered, and the ambitious investment in Game Pass has not yielded the anticipated success. As a result, analysts have started to theorize whether Microsoft could contemplate divesting Xbox to enhance financial outcomes and concentrate on its primary enterprise services.

Insights from *The Information* earlier this year disclosed internal conversations regarding the viability of such a spin-off, potentially enabling Xbox to function as an autonomous subsidiary or through a partnership with another organization. This strategy could relieve financial pressures on Microsoft’s balance sheet by distancing it from the inherently hazardous and high-risk gaming industry.

Nonetheless, not all observers share a bleak outlook on the future of the Xbox division. While job cuts and a realignment of certain studios into Activision and Bethesda’s publishing divisions imply a retreat, these actions could equally signify a strategic reassessment for long-term benefits. The choice to essentially reconstruct legendary franchises like Halo from the foundation may defer short-term profits, but it reflects a dedication to rejuvenating Microsoft’s gaming portfolio.

Microsoft’s stance indicates a willingness to maintain its trajectory, with Sharma reaffirming the company’s long-term objectives. She highlighted that the emphasis will be on cultivating suitable partnerships and identifying an operational framework that maximally supports Xbox’s achievements.

As the gaming industry’s landscape continues to change, Microsoft’s actions will be under close examination, balancing immediate financial considerations against the quest for groundbreaking gaming experiences. The path forward for Xbox remains unclear, but with leadership reiterating a long-term plan, the future of Microsoft’s gaming division will certainly be one to monitor closely.