Gait Games

Fumito Ueda, creator of Ico, Shadow of the Colossus, and the Last Guardian, showed off his new game at this weekend’s Summer Game Fest showcase. Gen Atlas sees you step into the shoes of a scavenger in a desert world littered with the carcasses of vast robots. It falls to you to piece one of these machines back together and… well, what your aim is exactly is unclear. However, as stark as the landscapes of the dead world, was that your character has a machine gun slung across their back and, judging by a couple of sequences in the trailer, they’re not afraid to use it.

This might not sound surprising, games have had guns since Spacewar!, but Ueda’s games have either steered away from doing violence or, particularly in the case of Shadow of the Colossus, made you feel ruddy awful for killing something.

But, have no fear, reader: Fumito Ueda says he’s not become trigger happy in his old age.

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I’ve been a fan of dogfighting games since playing Elite with my dad on his old Acorn computer. He’d do the flying and I’d fire the weapons. Maybe that division of labour is to blame for my biggest weakness as a pilot: knowing when to pull out of a strafe. Once I’ve my gunsights on an enemy I’ll continue flying at them with my guns firing until either they explode or I do. In roguelite dogfighter Wind Runners, that cavalier approach is proving my downfall over and over.

The Wind Runners demo popped up on Steam over the weekend and I’ve been trying to complete a single run of its bullet hell dogfighting since then.

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**AYN Thor and AYN Odin 3 Price Hikes: Essential Information**

The AYN Thor and AYN Odin 3, two highly regarded handheld gaming consoles favored by fans of retro and indie games, are about to face price hikes later this month. This change signifies the second increase for the AYN Thor within a span of three months, emphasizing the ongoing difficulties encountered by the tech sector due to continual memory shortages.

On June 8, a representative from AYN informed users through the brand’s Discord server about the upcoming wave of pre-orders for both the AYN Thor and Odin 3. However, this announcement was coupled with the disappointing news of a forthcoming price hike. Nicole, the AYN spokesperson, shared, “We also wanted to give everyone an early heads-up that we’re planning a price increase for both Thor and Odin 3 later this month.” The new prices are likely to come into effect once the existing stock is exhausted, prompting prospective buyers to consider placing orders without delay.

While precise information about the anticipated price increase has not been revealed, previous instances provide clues about possible changes. In April, AYN elevated the cost of its 1TB AYN Thor dual-screen handheld by $100, raising its price from $450 to $550. Considering the current supply chain challenges, a similar or even larger increase might be expected in the next adjustment. The need for RAM and other critical components continues to surge, as AI hyperscalers have been buying up stock at swift rates, contributing to these shortages.

The tech industry has seen comparable trends; for example, Valve recently elevated the price of the Steam Deck, another favored handheld device, by over $200. These increases indicate that consumers may need to act swiftly if they are contemplating acquiring any gaming devices. With the uncertainty surrounding future pricing, purchasing sooner rather than later may be prudent given the rising costs that could arise.

In summary, if you want to obtain an AYN Thor or AYN Odin 3 at a fair price, now is the ideal moment to place your order before the expected price increases take effect in the upcoming weeks.

### Anticipation Builds for Tomorrow’s Nintendo Direct

As recently confirmed in the Nintendo Today app, an eagerly awaited Nintendo Direct is scheduled for Tuesday, June 9, at 7 am PT/10 am ET. The event is set to run for an exciting 50 minutes, followed by a thorough 95-minute Nintendo Treehouse segment, which will explore the announcements made during the Direct. For fans keen to watch live, the presentation can be streamed [here](https://www.youtube.com/live/PvUPDSDZg1k).

#### What to Expect

Although the precise content of the Direct is still a mystery, multiple rumors and speculations have emerged within the gaming community. One significant anticipation is the rumored unveiling of a remake of the iconic game, *The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time*. Additionally, fans are looking forward to a release date for *Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave*, which has been long awaited.

The excitement doesn’t end there; gamers are also theorizing about forthcoming titles for the Switch 2, a console that many believe will feature a new 3D *Mario* game. As the Direct draws near, the burning questions on every fan’s mind include: What surprises does Nintendo have lined up?

#### Footage and Updates

Viewers should gear up for a combination of fresh content and updates on previously announced games. Recent presentations at Summer Game Fest and the Xbox Showcase imply that some trailers may revisit titles already revealed, so fans should temper their expectations. Anticipated games such as *Splatoon Raiders*, *Rhythm Heaven Groove*, and *Star Fox* are expected to showcase new footage or additional details.

#### Personal Hopes

On a personal level, fans share their hopes for the Direct, with many eager for updates on *Deltarune Chapter 5* and potential DLC for *Pokopia*. With the excitement palpable, there’s a strong possibility that announcements related to these cherished titles could bring considerable joy to the gaming community.

#### Conclusion

Tomorrow’s Nintendo Direct has become a center of speculation and enthusiasm within the gaming world, marking a concluding chapter in the annual showcase series typically held around this season. As Nintendo maintains its tradition of hosting a Direct each summer, fans can anticipate a mix of nostalgia, surprises, and new announcements that will influence the future of gaming.

*This article was amended post-publication with the correct Nintendo Direct time.*

### Nightdive Unveils Remaster of Thief: The Dark Project

Nightdive Studios, celebrated for their skill in remastering classic titles, has revealed their latest ambitious endeavor: a remaster of the legendary game, *Thief: The Dark Project*. Originally released in 1998 by Looking Glass Technologies, this title is widely considered one of the seminal works in gaming history and a cornerstone of the first-person stealth genre.

#### A Legacy to Uphold

*Thief: The Dark Project* marked a pivotal progression in gaming, offering a medieval fantasy where players take on the role of Garrett, a master thief navigating the dark underbelly of an expansive City. The game’s focus on stealth rather than direct confrontation distinguished it from peers like *Quake* and *Hexen II*, delivering a distinct gameplay experience that has influenced many subsequent titles, including *BioShock* and *Dishonored*. Nearly thirty years post-launch, this title remains groundbreaking, particularly for its innovative mechanics surrounding non-lethal gameplay.

Even with modders enhancing it for better performance on contemporary systems—thanks to initiatives like NewDark and TFix—the necessity of a remake continues to be debated.

#### Assurance from Prior Achievements

Nightdive’s history, particularly their revival of *System Shock II*, instills confidence. While this upcoming project will not be a complete overhaul akin to their remarkable rendition of the original *System Shock*, it is expected to be a significant remaster similar to that of the sequel. Crucially, this remaster will respect the original game’s legacy, remaining accessible for fans who wish to enjoy the nostalgic experience.

#### What’s New in the Remaster?

The remastered edition of *Thief* will boast a variety of updates. Nightdive is set to enhance all art assets, including textures and models, along with introducing new cutscenes and animations. A noteworthy improvement is the addition of a weapon and item wheel to create a more user-friendly interface. Fans can also look forward to full compatibility with the numerous custom maps and campaigns developed by the community throughout the years, ensuring that the deep-seated love for the game continues.

According to the teaser that was released, the graphics seem to uphold a strong fidelity to the original, with enhancements for clarity and detail while preserving the game’s unique aesthetic. Furthermore, the updated audio for guards is noted to carry a familiar tone that will resonate with fans.

#### Eagerness and Future Perspectives

As excitement mounts for the remaster set to debut this winter, the gaming community can ponder the potential triumphs Nightdive may experience with this cherished classic. Uncertainties remain about the implications of modernizing a beloved title, yet with Nightdive steering the project, there is optimism that they can respect the essence of the original while introducing improvements that will engage both newcomers and veteran fans alike.

In summary, while it is natural to feel protective over a game regarded as a landmark in gaming history, the shifting terrain of remakes and remasters continues to foster a mix of nostalgia and excitement. The result of *Thief: The Dark Project* is yet to be revealed, but it showcases the possibility of revitalizing classic games for new generations of players.

### The Rise of Remasters and Remakes in Gaming: A Look Back at Summer Game Fest 2026

As the Summer Game Fest period, often labeled the not-E3 phase, wraps up, enthusiasts and industry analysts are combing through a remarkable set of announcements. This year’s event not only showcased a variety of new titles but also emphasized a significant pattern: a noteworthy collection of remakes, remasters, and retro re-releases.

During the PC Gaming Show, the announcement of remasters for iconic titles such as *Thief* and *Company of Heroes* highlighted the sector’s tendency to revisit classic games. This trend became increasingly apparent as the roster of remasters expanded, indicating an industry seemingly looking back in hopes of advancing.

#### An Expanding Roster of Resurrected Titles

The latest announcements featured the following remasters and remakes, illustrating a combination of nostalgia and fresh experiences:

– *The Wolf Among Us Remastered*
– *Rayman Legends: Retold*
– *Rayman Origins Enhanced*
– *Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee Remastered*
– *Arizona Sunshine* (Non-VR remake)
– *Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced*
– *Hitman Classic Trilogy Remastered*
– *Persona 4 Revival*
– *Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis*
– *Final Fantasy 7 Revelation*
– *Halo: Campaign Evolved*
– *Resident Evil: Veronica*
– *Company of Heroes: Definitive Edition*
– *Thief: The Dark Project Remastered*
– *Barbie Rewind*
– *Toy Story Retro Round-Up*
– *Toy Story 3: Complete Edition*
– *Dynasty Warriors 3 Remastered*

For numerous gamers, this selection encompasses cherished titles that evoke substantial nostalgic sentiment. The anticipation of updated experiences for iconic games like *Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee* and the forthcoming *Tomb Raider* installment sparks enthusiasm and hope.

#### Industry Reflection and Worries

Yet, amid this enthusiasm exists a tangible concern regarding the condition of the gaming sector. As studios confront financial challenges, many experience layoffs and budget constraints, fostering an atmosphere where innovation might be suppressed. The surging expenses of consoles and games, in conjunction with declining sales, spotlight a concerning trend where taking risks has become less feasible in a market heavily reliant on nostalgia.

This resurgence of previous triumphs seems to serve as a survival tactic, enabling publishers to quickly generate revenue while lessening the risks associated with creating new titles. Although tapping into nostalgia may appear to be a temporary fix, it invites scrutiny over the long-term vitality of the industry.

#### Looking Forward

The phenomenon of remakes and re-releases is not confined to the recent Summer Game Fest; it reflects a wider scope within the industry. Initiatives like a complete remake of the *God of War* trilogy and a highly anticipated *Splinter Cell* remake suggest that studios are not merely exploring past successes, but are indeed diving deeply into an ever-expanding nostalgic pool.

While it is encouraging that developers are discovering avenues to work on these nostalgic endeavors, the implications for innovation and creativity are troubling. What will occur when this strategy begins to show signs of wear? The future of gaming may depend on achieving a careful balance between honoring tradition and seizing the potential of fresh ideas.

In the meantime, gamers can anticipate relishing updated classics while contemplating what the next chapter for the industry may hold—all while hoping for a revival of innovation amid a flood of remasters.

**The Distinctive Endgame of Final Fantasy XIV: Fishing**

In the vast realm of *Final Fantasy XIV* (FFXIV), players frequently gravitate towards combat roles, dramatic storytelling, or the intricate mechanics of large-scale raids. Nonetheless, a small yet fervent community thrives on a more unconventional activity: fishing. This side content is far from being a mere afterthought; for numerous players, it represents the authentic essence of endgame involvement.

### A Comprehensive Fishing Mechanism

Fishing in *FFXIV* has been meticulously crafted since the game’s debut, featuring an impressive array of over 1,500 fish types to capture. Players can unlock the fisher class, which grants access to activities such as Ocean Fishing—similar to a casual raid centered on a social and leisurely experience. The fishing system is not only all-encompassing but also intricate, necessitating players to employ a variety of tools and techniques. Unlike simpler fishing minigames found in titles like *Stardew Valley*, *FFXIV* integrates MMO mechanics, compelling players to master 41 hotbar buttons alongside specialized equipment. Players must also account for time-sensitive fish availability, weather variables, bait selections, and occasionally even prerequisite fish to “mooch” before snagging a catch.

Despite its seemingly trivial rewards, such as culinary recipes, fishing in *FFXIV* intrigues many players due to its allure and the unique challenges it presents. Emiach Raethwind, a devoted fisher, points out that the engaging and technical aspects of the fishing system resonate perfectly with his real-life passions in biology and wildlife exploration.

### The Eorzean Aquarium: A Community Milestone

The commitment of *FFXIV*’s fishing community is arguably best demonstrated by the Eorzean Aquarium, established by the renowned fisher Fruity Snacks in 2022. Originating from a clever workaround to in-game housing restrictions, the aquarium enables fishers to showcase every aquarium fish via the housing system of Free Companies. With the ability to host over 2,000 aquariums, partnerships among fishers have turned into an immense success. This initiative not only highlights the players’ devotion but also acts as a hub for community events, including themed festivals and gatherings that draw attention from players globally.

### Resources and Collaboration

For newcomers tackling the nuances of fishing, communities like *Fishcord* have emerged as essential aids. This Discord server seeks to ease the learning process, offering a wealth of insights, guides, and real-time support from experienced fishers. Tools like Carbuncle Plushy’s Fish Tracker deliver intricate information regarding fish availability and requirements, further enriching the fishing journey. The collaborative ethos of these communities nurtures a supportive atmosphere, where players can exchange findings and tactics.

### Distinctive Challenges and Ambitions

Beyond the mere act of fishing, many players devise additional personal challenges, such as size hunting—striving to capture the largest specimen of every species. This extra layer of complexity, along with the introduction of thorough testing events, showcases a profound commitment to mastering the subtler elements of fishing. Players like Caduceator, who completed a no GP challenge (abandoning gathering points to catch every fish), exemplify just how far the fishing community is willing to go in pursuit of a challenge.

### The Continuous Quest for Insight

The mysterious nature of *FFXIV* fishing continues to present new enigmas for players to tackle, even after years of gameplay. Active initiatives to consolidate data among players remain vital, as numerous facets of fish availability and behavior are still unclear or unknown. Trailblazers like Tyo’to Tayuun spearhead efforts in data collection, employing spreadsheets and community-coordinated testing to further comprehension.

As the game approaches its 13th anniversary, the fishing community exhibits no signs of decline. Frequent meetups and heightened player engagement signify a lively and expanding interest in this distinctive aspect of *FFXIV*. While some players endeavor to decode the mysteries of fishing, others enjoy the ongoing exploration, welcoming the uncertainties as part of their adventure.

### Conclusion

*Final Fantasy XIV’s* fishing system distinguishes itself as a complex, rewarding, and endearing endeavor that highlights community and collaboration. Whether through the formation of the Eorzean Aquarium, the resources accessible within Fishcord, or personal challenges by dedicated players, fishing has transformed from a mere side activity into a rich endgame experience. The path of discovery and mastery that continues to unfold assures that this captivating pastime will remain a cherished component of the *FFXIV* experience for years to come.

**The Connection and Alleged Dispute Between Geoff Keighley and Hideo Kojima**

Geoff Keighley and Hideo Kojima have enjoyed a strong friendship since 2001, creating a connection that has turned into a point of amusement and intrigue within the gaming community. Their association frequently evokes comparisons to well-known anime pairings, such as Naruto and Sasuke, highlighting a distinctive mix of respect and teasing rivalry. Recently, however, buzz has emerged online regarding a possible rift between the two gaming icons, sparking a flurry of reactions and memes across the internet.

The speculation reportedly gained traction following a Twitter post dated June 5, which asserted that Kojima had not engaged with any of Keighley’s tweets since the last Game Awards, during which Kojima’s game, *Death Stranding 2*, was notably eclipsed by *Expedition 33* winning Game of the Year (GOTY). Although the validity of this assertion is debatable, it has ignited conversations and discussions among fans eager to dissect the essence of their friendship.

In light of the commotion, both Keighley and Kojima seem to be embracing the moment, interacting with fans and humorously addressing the rumors. Gene Park of *The Washington Post* exemplified this by sharing a picture with Kojima, jokingly asking not to share it with Keighley. Kojima’s choice to retweet this promptly only intensified the speculation, leading fans to ponder the nuances of their bond.

Keighley joined in on the fun, responding to Kojima’s tweets in a way that resembles a longing to revive a former romance. The community has not firmly aligned itself on this supposed “breakup,” but some remarks have urged Keighley to continue his quest for “affection.”

Amid the lighthearted memes and fictitious fanfiction examining their relationship, inquiries emerge about the origins of this suspected rift. Did the announcement of *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33* winning GOTY generate friction? Or was there an outside influence, such as a playful jab from a third party—specifically, a humorous nod to Miss Piggy? While genuine hostility seems improbable, the comedy arising from this scenario is unmistakable.

Social media has been flooded with comical interpretations of the alleged disagreement. Users have created jokes and artwork portraying the two “separated” figures, including allusions to the emotional turmoil of such a breakup. The bond shared by Keighley and Kojima has inspired inventive and entertaining representations of their friendship, highlighting the distinctive culture of the online gaming community.

As the gaming realm moves forward, many are hopeful that Keighley and Kojima will mend fences prior to the 2026 Game Awards. Without their signature interactions, the event would certainly seem less lively. Observers are eagerly looking forward to more lighthearted exchanges, which have become a cherished characteristic of their enduring friendship.

# Highlights from Summer Game Fest 2026

The Summer Game Fest week of 2026 came to a close after an exciting flurry of game announcements, highlighting a multitude of anticipated releases across different platforms. Key figures in the gaming world, including Sony and Xbox, played a part in a series of thrilling revelations that had fans buzzing about the gaming landscape ahead. Here’s a summary of the 13 most notable trailers and announcements from the event.

## Final Fantasy 7 Revelation
The most notable announcement of the week emerged from the eagerly awaited conclusion of the Final Fantasy 7 remake trilogy. This final installment is slated for release in spring 2027 and will be accessible on PS5, Xbox, Switch 2, and PC.

## Resident Evil Veronica
Launching the primary showcase, Capcom revealed **Resident Evil: Veronica**, a remake of the iconic Dreamcast game **Code Veronica**. This entry goes back to the series’ foundations with both Claire and Chris Redfield. The remake is set to arrive in 2027.

## Spyro: A Realm Beyond
Following much anticipation, **Spyro: A Realm Beyond** was revealed by Toys for Bob and Activision. While details are still limited, this new chapter is also expected to debut in 2027, bringing back the cherished purple dragon.

## Until Dawn 2
A surprising reveal was the standalone continuation, **Until Dawn 2**, created by Firesprite. Gamers can anticipate this new horror journey on PS5 in 2027.

## Persona 6
The announcement of **Persona 6** followed a wave of speculation, although details remain concealed. The reveal included a trailer showcasing unsettling visuals, but no release date was mentioned.

## God of War Laufey
Sony concluded its State of Play with the introduction of a new spin-off titled **God of War Laufey**, focused on Kratos’ spouse, Faye. The gameplay demonstrated a quicker, more dynamic experience, although its release date is yet to be determined.

## Virtua Fighter Crossroads
From RGG Studio, **Virtua Fighter Crossroads** represents the first mainline game in the series in almost twenty years. This fighting title will incorporate narrative elements characteristic of the Yakuza franchise, with a target release in 2027.

## Guild Wars 3
ArenaNet announced **Guild Wars 3**, which aims to refresh the MMORPG experience. This installment will be available for the first time on PS5, alongside PC, with a beta anticipated in fall 2027.

## Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy
Unveiled during the Xbox Showcase, this prequel to the **Plague Tale** series, titled **Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy**, will emphasize a more action-driven gameplay approach. It is scheduled to release on August 27 for Xbox, PS5, and PC.

## 1666 Amsterdam
Patrice Désilets showcased **1666: Amsterdam**, a historical action-adventure game with a female protagonist who employs magic to reveal hidden demonic forces. A demo is now available on Steam, though no release date has been announced.

## Stellar Blade: Blood Rain
A new entry in the **Stellar Blade** franchise was hinted at, introducing a younger character named Evie. No release date has been provided for this sequel from Shift Up.

## Senua
The forthcoming addition in the **Hellblade** series, titled **Senua**, will again follow the main character on her journey for the afterlife and to reunite with her loved ones. The game is scheduled for a 2027 launch on PS5, Xbox, and PC.

## Stuntman: Hollywood
Surprising fans, **Stuntman: Hollywood** was revealed as the next entry from Saber. This new installment will feature actual films, including the Fast and Furious series, and is labeled as “Coming Soon” for PS5, Xbox, and PC.

With these thrilling announcements and trailers, 2027 is poised to become an exceptional year for gamers, offering a wide variety of titles across multiple platforms.

**Gen Atlas: Fumito Ueda’s Bold New Sci-Fi Journey**

During the Summer Game Fest 2026, attendees were excited to preview a new trailer for *Gen Atlas*, the most recent venture from esteemed game director Fumito Ueda, acclaimed for his contributions to iconic titles like *Shadow of the Colossus*, *Ico*, and *The Last Guardian*. This forthcoming blockbuster, developed by Ueda’s studio genDESIGN in partnership with Epic Games, seeks to offer a distinctive sci-fi gaming experience. Although Ueda has not revealed a precise release date, he has reiterated his dedication to traditional game development practices, avoiding generative AI in his creative workflows.

In a recent conversation with PC Gamer, Ueda remarked, “All aspects of game development are carried out by humans.” This perspective highlights a commitment to authentic human creativity throughout the game development process, including prototyping, concept design, and coding. Ueda clarified that while his studio employs generative AI for administrative functions—such as schedule management and summarizing meeting notes—it does not influence vital creative roles such as crafting game assets or coding the game itself.

This choice sets *Gen Atlas* apart from other recent titles like *Crazy Taxi* and *Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis*, which both integrated generative AI technology and acknowledged its use in their Steam listings. For example, Kenji Kanno, the creator of *Crazy Taxi*, shared that the team used generative AI as a reference aid rather than a source for final assets. “Our artists would reference [generated images] and then create the actual thing,” Kanno elaborated, reinforcing the significance of human creativity in the ultimate product.

Despite the promising aspects of generative AI, Ueda’s focus on human-centered development mirrors a rising apprehension among gamers about the authenticity and artistic quality of video games. Titles like *Crazy Taxi* have encountered criticism from fans concerned about AI’s involvement in the creative process. Conversely, *Gen Atlas* seems to prioritize the human element, creating a distinct division between development support and creative influence.

As excitement mounts for *Gen Atlas*, the gaming community eagerly anticipates how Ueda’s philosophy will materialize in the finished game. Given his history of crafting well-regarded and emotionally impactful games, fans remain optimistic that this latest project will meet their hopes. However, without a definitive release schedule mentioned, it may take some time before players can dive into this captivating new adventure. Ueda’s commitment to human creativity indicates that *Gen Atlas* might signify a refreshing return to traditional game development in an industry rapidly shaped by technology.