Gait Games

Driven witless by the UK heatwave, I throw open my email inbox and search desperately for videogames about waterfalls, canopies of thick palm leaves, and the sibilant settling of ice in the bellies of the largest, most enduring glaciers. Instead, I am challenged to excavate a world of sand.

Hooded Horse and Lantto Games have announced an early access release date for Sandustry, their 2D factory-building game in which resources break down into pixels with individual physics. It’s out in early access via Steam, GOG, and the Microsoft Store on August 13th. Please be careful when watching the below trailer. It may absorb whatever body fluids you have left.

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### The Development Journey of Haunted Chocolatier: An Honest Update from ConcernedApe

Creating a video game is a considerable challenge; producing a quality one is even more demanding. Eric Barone, better known as ConcernedApe, has recently shared with fans an update regarding his much-anticipated game, *Haunted Chocolatier*. This update is a reminder for players: great things require time, and patience is crucial.

In a blog entry, Barone openly admitted that although he is diligently working on *Haunted Chocolatier*, he doesn’t have substantial news or major updates to provide at this time. He acknowledges that the development journey is prolonged, but he stresses that this extended duration is necessary for achieving the level of excellence he envisions. Barone mentions, “most everything the player will interact with in the game needs to be perfect,” concentrating on smooth, clear, and intuitive design aspects that enrich the player’s experience.

A key aspect of the update is Barone’s careful approach to crafting an in-game recipe book for chocolate making—a core feature in a game built around this delightful theme. He elaborates on the repetitive process he undertakes to fine-tune details, asserting, “As with many things in the game, I’ve iterated on this many times, each time bringing it closer to its final form.” His goal is not simply to achieve a minimum standard but to design an engaging and enjoyable interface that players will look forward to using repeatedly.

Barone’s dedication to quality goes beyond mere visuals; he aims to streamline user interactions and convey information in a manner that isn’t overwhelming for players. He acknowledges the significance of effective data presentation, aiming for an aesthetically pleasing layout that is both informative and visually attractive. He remarks, “If the data is all clustered together, it will be disgusting to look at. The data needs to be grouped into compelling, intuitive and easy to read/understand groupings.”

Furthermore, Barone emphasizes the intricacy of *Haunted Chocolatier* as a “big game,” necessitating careful adjustments across various elements. His commitment to personal fulfillment in the end product drives him to guarantee that every aspect meets his elevated expectations. This relentless quest for perfection clarifies his hesitance to disclose screenshots or detailed information about the game too early, as he aims to prevent letting fans down if the final result strays from initial hopes.

While Barone has sought help to support *Stardew Valley* after its launch, *Haunted Chocolatier* chiefly remains a solo project. The development of *Stardew Valley* spanned four and a half years, and although *Haunted Chocolatier* was started six years ago, it is expected to be even broader in scope. Balancing responsibilities for both projects hasn’t been simple, but Barone has made progress in managing his time efficiently, asking for understanding and patience from his audience.

In a world where immediate satisfaction often prevails, Barone’s update serves as a genuine reminder that exceptional artistry and thorough design take time. As fans eagerly anticipate the completed product, they are invited to appreciate the development journey, understanding that the creation of immersive gaming experiences like *Haunted Chocolatier* is a commendable effort that necessitates care and precision.

Stardew Valley creator Eric ‘ConcernedApe’ Barone has released his latest reminder that yes, he’s still working on Haunted Chocolatier, the action-RPG and life sim in which you run a sweetshop in a realm of ghosts. This particular blogpost is notable for a mildly agonised aside about the game’s recipe book interface, which needs to be “seamless, clear, intuitive, satisfying, aesthetic”, in a word, perfect.

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### The Necessity to Acquire an Xbox Series or PlayStation 5 Prior to GTA VI Launch

As the gaming community prepares for the launch of the much-anticipated *GTA VI* in November, anyone contemplating a purchase of an Xbox Series or PlayStation 5 must move swiftly. The initial release period for these consoles witnessed a surge in popularity, but present circumstances hint that the scenario is about to deteriorate.

#### Increasing Costs and Restricted Availability

Reports suggest that the prices for both consoles are poised to climb as manufacturers contend with persistent hardware component shortages and rising production expenses. Major companies such as Microsoft and Sony have already enacted price increases in the past year, with speculations of additional hikes emerging ahead of the *GTA VI* release. The immediacy to purchase now arises not just from these expected price escalations but also from alerts from major retailers regarding potential limited stock availability. A representative from a major retail chain declared, “We’ve been notified that due to ongoing issues related to hardware component availability, we won’t be receiving the units we desire before *GTA*. Demand is likely to surpass supply during the end-of-year period.”

#### The Coming Demand Spike

While experienced gamers might have already transitioned to the next-gen, a substantial segment of the gaming community continues to use older consoles like the PS4 and Xbox One. For these “normie” gamers, *GTA VI* serves as a significant incentive that could drive them to upgrade. As these gamers aim to secure their consoles, they will confront a crowded market with fewer units on hand, resulting in intense competition.

This potential spike in demand coincides with the holiday shopping season, further complicating the inventory challenge. The essential message here is evident: those who procrastinate until the last moment may find themselves without a console amidst heightened consumer interest.

#### Confronted with Elevated Prices

Prospective buyers should also brace for the likelihood of incurring higher costs. The persistent chip shortage, along with previous tariffs imposed during the Trump Administration, has compelled console manufacturers to significantly elevate prices across their offerings. Xbox, for example, increased its prices last October and is expected to do so again later this year. In a similar vein, PlayStation has also experienced price adjustments, mirroring the wider economic issues that accompany hardware manufacturing.

As demand rises, those who are willing to pay a premium will probably hurry to secure their consoles. However, many may find themselves priced out, resulting in a noticeable divide in the market. Those who cannot or choose not to meet the higher prices might forfeit the chance to play *GTA VI* on the latest equipment.

#### Conclusion

For gamers weighing the option of an Xbox Series or PlayStation 5, the moment to act is now. With the upcoming *GTA VI* release, rising prices, and anticipated stock shortages, acquiring a console sooner rather than later is critical. Whether choosing a new or refurbished model, those committed to entering the next-gen gaming era should take advantage of the opportunity without hesitation. The journey to gaming’s latest blockbuster should commence with proper planning and prompt action.

Watch out, Steam Machine! One who would claim your throne comes forth from the sun-kissed streets of France. He might have your number, once he’s figured out what he’s comfortable being called. He’s the PC Box from French tech sellers LDLC, and he was originally dubbed the Stim Machine because no parody can be too on the nose.

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### Revisiting Falco Lombardi: The Toxic DPS of Star Fox on Switch 2

With the fresh launch of *Star Fox* on the Switch 2, nostalgic players are plunging back into the realm filled with iconic characters and exhilarating space battles. Among these figures, Falco Lombardi emerges as the audacious, straight-shooting avian pilot known for his quick humor and unforgettable one-liners. Fans reflect on his escapades in *Star Fox 64*, where his combination of confidence and wit made him a beloved character. Now, as the new remake is unveiled, gamers are excited to witness how Falco and the rest of the squad are reinterpreted.

In a video posted by user KeionJ05, Falco is depicted as a quintessential “toxic DPS” participant—a phrase commonly used in gaming circles to describe aggressive players who fault their teammates for lacking support while they carelessly confront adversaries solo. Within just 30 seconds, Falco cycling through various communications effectively encapsulates this interplay. He insists on assistance, criticizes his comrades for failing to demonstrate the teamwork promoted during the Star Fox initiation meeting, and, moments after getting aid, rebukes Fox for “taking his kills.” This tension provides players a comical glimpse into the often irritating social interactions found in team-oriented games.

The voice lines in this clip reflect some of the absurdity that many multiplayer gamers are familiar with, drawing comparisons to titles like *Overwatch*, where players encounter overly self-assured characters that underscore the occasionally ungrateful essence of such team environments. New voice actor Andrew Russell revitalizes this original essence, further rooting Falco within the gaming culture.

The humor surrounding the character’s antics is not purely accidental; it highlights the design of interactive dialogues in games, where characters react in real time to a variety of scenarios. In this instance, the rapid-fire inconsistencies in Falco’s remarks offer a comedic and relatable depiction of the frustrations found in competitive gaming.

Andrew Russell has openly shared his enthusiasm about voicing Falco, stressing the character’s significant place in Nintendo’s heritage. His capability to embody Falco’s bravado enriches the character and keeps the franchise engaging for both newcomers and returning fans.

Numerous mechanics introduced in the Switch 2 version have become sources of humor and togetherness among players, especially the VTuber-like avatars that permit gamers to overlay character images onto their video feeds. These features provide an added layer of amusement, transforming battles into not just a test of skill but also a means for self-expression and enjoyment.

As players maneuver through the trials and pleasures of the new *Star Fox*, Falco Lombardi exemplifies the changing landscape of gaming narratives. He underscores the equilibrium between individual talent and team dynamics, offering both nostalgia and fresh comedic instances for fans to appreciate. Whether progressing through the game or engaging in friendly banter with companions, Falco’s lasting legacy remains deeply rooted in the realm of video game culture.

Urgh. Have you seen memory prices lately? If you somehow haven’t, make sure to look through your fingers, as they are truly terrifying. DDR5 RAM sticks are ungodly expensive, older DDR4’s not much better, high VRAM graphics cards are ridiculous, and any PC hardware that includes at least one of these (which is a lot) is suffering ludicrous price hikes in turn. That includes the new Steam Machine, while handheld PCs are being stripped of affordable options, and next-gen, standalone VR headsets are unlikely to do much better.

But we’re been here before, right? We made it through the crypto-mining-induced GPU price spikes of 2018, the 2011 hard drive shortages caused by flooding in Thailand, and the pandemic-driven PC surge. Remember the Discord stock alerts? The retailer lotteries? The waiting lines for websites?

We can do this. We can weather the storm of new memory price hikes. But we don’t have to do it in silence. We don’t need to damn our enthusiasm for the PCs that play our PC games. There are ways to still upgrade and improve your rig, and its gaming prowess, even with memory prices as ridiculous as they are.

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# Destiny 2’s Final Update: A Tribute to a Cherished Game

**Introduction**

The realm of gaming has witnessed numerous legendary titles emerge and fade away, and amongst them, Bungie’s *Destiny 2* emerges as a long-lasting loot shooter that enchanted gamers with its captivating universe and immersive gameplay. In June 2023, Bungie unveiled what is anticipated to be the concluding update for *Destiny 2*, signifying an emotional moment for both the player community and the developers.

**The Final Update and the Condition of the Game**

Bungie aimed for this concluding update to resolve numerous persistent balance issues and glitches within the game, striving to leave *Destiny 2* in a commendable condition before wrapping up its enduring run. Nevertheless, the launch of this update encountered unpredicted holdups due to significant layoffs within Bungie’s development team, with close to 300 employees impacted by the reductions announced by Sony.

The studio informed fans of this delay, stating that the scheduled updates for the game had been deferred with no new timeline provided. The ambiguity regarding whether the originally planned fixes could still be executed left many players uneasy. Some expressed doubt on platforms like Reddit, fearing that this may become a lasting postponement.

In reaction, Bungie reassured fans that this was simply a temporary hurdle and that they intended to roll out the patch when possible. They urged the community to continue supporting the team, both current and former, who had dedicated their efforts to the game.

**Effects of Layoffs on Development**

The layoffs significantly impacted the live-service team handling *Destiny 2*. After the mass reductions, it became unclear who was left to finalize the hotfix. The layoffs were perceived as hasty, occurring right as developers were wrapping up fixes, which instigated dissatisfaction within the player community, especially as many fans had invested years into the game.

While Bungie had earlier hinted at intentions for future expansions for *Destiny 2*, the atmosphere shifted after the debut of *Marathon*, a new title that failed to provide the anticipated sales surge for the studio. The timing of these layoffs allowed Sony to perform a reorganization within the studio before the new fiscal quarter commenced, but it came at a substantial cost to employee morale and game quality.

**Community Reactions and Future Outlook**

The response from the *Destiny 2* community has been varied. Players expressed relief at the possibility of a final set of improvements, yet there remains a significant frustration over the absence of a *Destiny 3*, particularly as resources were redirected towards new initiatives like *Marathon*. This sentiment reflects a broader discontent within the gaming community about corporate choices that favor new projects potentially at the cost of cherished existing titles.

As the fate of *Destiny 2* teeters in uncertainty, with the final update postponed and the future of the game unclear, many veteran players reflect on their journeys within the universe crafted by Bungie. The legacy of *Destiny 2* is characterized by both successes and challenges, reminding the gaming world of the fragile relationship between developers, corporate control, and player dedication.

**Conclusion**

With Bungie’s ultimate effort to address *Destiny 2*’s concerns in motion, fans can only anticipate a positive outcome as they await the deferred updates. As the developers navigate this difficult phase, the community remains poised to support those who have influenced the *Destiny 2* journey, valuing the shared experiences in a game that has defined a decade for numerous players. Whether this serves as a fitting farewell or an ongoing struggle is yet to be determined.

A long time ago in a games industry far, far away, a bunch of Sony Online Entertainment developers had the crazy idea of adding Jedi characters to an MMO without either robbing all the other classes of appeal, or nerfing the Force-wielders into oblivion.

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# The Hype Surrounding Grand Theft Auto 6: Automobiles, Characters, and Caution

Welcome back to Kotaku’s semi-regular Grand Theft Auto 6 column, still titled “Stealing Cars.” Today, we’ll explore the stunning graphics of vehicles in GTA 6, catch up with the Internet-famous Florida Joker, provide tips to dodge scams as the game nears release, and reflect on Phil Collins’ legendary performance in GTA: Vice City Stories.

## Let’s All Rock Out To Phil Collins In GTA: Vice City Stories

Although the Grand Theft Auto franchise boasts immense popularity, some titles seem to slip into forgotten status. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories, first released on PSP in 2006, is one such entry. It saw a single port to the PS2 in 2007 and has since remained mostly overlooked compared to its counterparts like GTA III, Vice City, and San Andreas.

Vice City Stories delivered a rich gameplay experience, featuring an expanded arsenal of weapons and vehicles. One of the memorable moments includes a live performance by Phil Collins, who serenades “In the Air Tonight” within the game—an incredible achievement for its time. As the game approaches its 20th anniversary, nostalgia heightens, especially with the anticipation building around the launch of GTA 6, set in the nostalgic Vice City.

## The Florida Joker Is Requesting People To Fund His Purchase Of GTA 6

In an amusing turn of events, we shift our focus to the Florida Joker—a viral personality known for his unique face tattoos. After being spoofed in the first GTA 6 trailer, he attempted to take legal action against Rockstar Games before reaching out to them for a voice-over opportunity. Recently, he posted on Instagram, humorously asking for someone to cover his pre-order for GTA 6’s Ultimate Edition, costing $100. His request showcases the excitement and eagerness for the forthcoming game, even though his posts have attracted minimal interaction.

## Please Avoid Sending Money To Random Websites For Early Access To GTA 6

The buzz surrounding GTA 6 has, unfortunately, led to a surge in scams. Many users are eager to play the game as soon as possible, prompting some to look for early access through questionable websites that claim to offer such options. Both MalwareBytes and NordVPN have noted a variety of scam sites preying on enthusiastic players.

It’s essential to stay alert and avoid such pitfalls; GTA 6 is confirmed to launch exclusively on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, with no official PC version announced. Players should only purchase the game from reputable digital retailers or wait for physical editions, steering clear of any third-party sites that could jeopardize their security.

## Wow, The Vehicles In GTA 6 Look Incredible

One of the most discussed features of GTA 6 is the amazing visual enhancements, particularly regarding vehicle design. Fans have compared the cars in GTA 6 to those in the recently released Forza Horizon 6, highlighting notable improvements in graphical quality.

Notable modder WiseGuy talked about these upgrades, emphasizing that returning vehicle models now include detailed 3D-rendered aspects such as real panel gaps and more sophisticated suspension details. The renewed emphasis on realism suggests a serious commitment to enhancing the gameplay experience, setting high hopes for vehicle customization and aesthetics.

## Until Next Time!

As we conclude this edition of Stealing Cars, we remain eager for future updates and information about the realm of GTA 6. With the release on the horizon, it promises to offer a fresh experience while reigniting memories of previous installments in the iconic series. Stay tuned for more updates soon!