Gait Games

### Slay the Spire 2: Highlights from the Recent Neowsletter

Following a surge of review-bombing, Mega Crit has unveiled its April 2026 Neowsletter, offering insights into the anticipated game, *Slay the Spire 2*. This edition of the newsletter deviates from the usual format, showcasing not only a preliminary roadmap for future content but also captivating statistics regarding players’ in-game choices.

#### Future Additions

The Neowsletter details several thrilling features coming to *Slay the Spire 2*, including:

– **The Bestiary**: A tool for players to familiarize themselves with the different enemies they will face.
– **Alternate Versions of Act 2 and Act 3**: Modifications to these acts will bring new challenges and experiences for returning players.
– **New Experimental Game Modes**: These modes are poised to introduce innovative gameplay elements, though details remain undisclosed.
– **New Character**: A long-anticipated new character is also in the works, enhancing the roster and gameplay variety.

Despite these exciting announcements, Mega Crit has opted to keep release dates ambiguous. Co-founder Casey Yano highlighted that preserving flexibility allows the team to maintain a healthy workflow, fostering creativity and spontaneous innovation.

#### Player Decisions and Data

In tandem with content revelations, the Neowsletter presented intriguing data on player behavior throughout their adventures in the game. For instance:

– **War Historian Repy**: Merely 12% of players chose to retain Repy locked up after acquiring the Lantern Key in Act 2.
– **Room Full of Cheese Event**: An unexpected 63% of players decided to “Gorge” during this event, despite the alluring rewards of the Chosen Cheese relic available from the “Search” option, which offers significant health benefits over time.
– **Byrdonis Egg Dilemma**: Nearly half (49%) of players opted to consume the Byrdonis Egg in Act 1 instead of adding the Byrdpip companion to their group, prioritizing immediate health benefits over long-term tactics.

#### Closing Thoughts

The April 2026 Neowsletter is not only a source of excitement for the prospects of *Slay the Spire 2*, but also a revealing look at the decisions players make as they traverse the challenging and strategic terrain of the game. As Mega Crit continues to enhance and expand their universe, players are eagerly anticipating the next wave of content and the surprises it will bring to their adventures.

I don’t know about you, readers, but this past week’s gone by in a bit of a blur. Did I volunteer to take WAWAPs for today, or was I forced at Ziff Davis canteen sporkpoint? I can’t even remember, but perhaps relaxing with some PC games – and/or reading about what you’re all playing – will help lift the brainfog.

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The ongoing discussion about whether Charlie Cox has engaged with the 2025 Game of the Year, *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*, has persisted for an unusually lengthy period. The *Daredevil* star, who voices the character Gustave in *Expedition 33*, initially believed he had only committed to a simple voiceover project, spending merely four hours in the recording studio. However, this experience has lingered with him for over a year, with fans relentlessly inquiring about the game. Recently, in a conversation with *GamesRadar*, Cox shared that he has in fact dedicated some time to playing the game—likely to address the continuous questions—stating, “I’m not very good at it.” This revelation has ignited ongoing conversations concerning the expectations placed on celebrities to engage with every aspect of their work, especially in the realm of gaming.

The heart of the matter rests in the overarching notion that insisting individuals engage with gaming—particularly actors who may lack interest in the medium—is misguided and superfluous. Charlie Cox shouldn’t feel compelled to be a gamer simply because he voiced a character in a video game, and such expectations can ultimately deter talent from accepting similar opportunities in the future. The vocal minority of *Clair Obscur*’s passionate fanbase appears to have contributed to this pressure, creating an awkward situation for Cox, who has already articulated his disinterest in gaming and minimal understanding of the game’s storyline.

Despite the praise for his voice work, Cox has persistently sought to shift the attention away from him. During a panel in November 2025, he acknowledged his nomination for a Game Award but underscored that much of the recognition should be attributed to Maxence Cazorla, the motion capture actor who animated Gustave and other characters. His efforts to downplay his involvement underscore a more significant issue in the gaming industry: the tendency to correlate voice acting quality with personal investment in gaming itself.

Cox’s situation highlights a key aspect of contemporary fandom and celebrity relationships. While many fans forge a parasocial bond with virtual characters, desiring validation from the actors behind them, it is crucial to remember that actors like Cox are not obligated to engage with every dimension of their performance, especially if it does not represent a genuine passion of theirs.

In examining the dynamics of representation in gaming, it’s also important to recognize the frequently overlooked contributions of motion capture actors and other behind-the-scenes talent. Cox’s commitment to acknowledging these creatives has initiated conversations about recognizing their efforts in industry awards. This is a positive development, emphasizing the need to credit contributions appropriately and ensuring fair acknowledgment of all roles in a game’s creation.

Ultimately, Charlie Cox’s experience serves as a reminder that individuals are not required to participate in activities outside of their interests, regardless of their professional involvement. It is entirely reasonable for someone to shine in a performance, as Cox did, without being a fervent gamer. Whether he chooses to continue voicing characters in video games should hinge solely on his interest and enjoyment of the experience—not the demands of fandom.

**Capcom’s Pragmata: Twitch Badge Release Sparks Community Dispute**

Capcom’s *Pragmata* has officially debuted, earning favorable reviews for its gameplay and visual design. Ahead of this launch, Capcom collaborated with Twitch to present fans with a chance to earn a unique “Cryana” Twitch Chat Badge. However, a backlash arose online as several users alleged that the badge references a controversial meme linked to inappropriate themes.

The “Cryana” badge, as per the announcement from the official *Pragmata* X account, relates to the game’s android character, Diana, who is portrayed with youthful attributes. Following the announcement, numerous social media users raised alarms, associating the badge with the “Uohhhhhhhhh!” meme, which is notoriously tied to questionable internet content involving underage figures.

Critics on social media shared their dissatisfaction with comments such as, “I can’t believe Capcom is uooohposting in their marketing,” suggesting that they found the promotion to be unsuitable. Content creator Lance McDonald amplified the conversation by claiming that the badge linked to a meme frequently celebrated in a negative light, along with a nod to the *Know Your Meme* page outlining the “Uoh!” meme’s origins.

The meme itself emerged from a contentious reply on X (formerly Twitter), where emojis reacting to an image of a child ignited widespread backlash and became a viral expression mocking certain internet factions that sexualize animated portrayals of minors. Due to its connection with such troubling implications, many users were bewildered by Capcom’s choice to introduce a badge seemingly associated with the meme.

It is possible that Capcom’s marketing team was oblivious to the adverse implications linked to the “Cryana” badge and aimed to depict a humorous version of Diana as a crying emoji. Nonetheless, *Pragmata* has previously faced backlash related to the sexualization of its main character, highlighted by the banning of a subreddit focused on erotic representations of Diana earlier this year.

As of the time of this report, Capcom had yet to reply to questions concerning the controversy regarding the Twitch badge. As the circumstances continue to develop, it remains uncertain how Capcom will tackle the concerns expressed by its fanbase and the wider gaming community.

**CinemaCon 2026: Highlights and Marvel’s Showcase of ‘Avengers: Doomsday’**

CinemaCon, an annual event in Las Vegas, serves as a crucial assembly for the film sector to reveal upcoming ventures, preview thrilling content, and cultivate relationships between studios and exhibitors. The event wrapped up on April 16, 2026, featuring an impressive presentation by Marvel Studios that sparked significant excitement among fans and industry experts.

One of the event’s most awaited moments was the release of new footage from the forthcoming film *Avengers: Doomsday*. Although the trailer was heavily guarded—with attendees allegedly being removed for attempts to record it—there have been firsthand reports outlining its details.

### Trailer Breakdown

The trailer opened with the foreboding statement, “Something’s coming. Something we may not be able to stop,” set against a striking backdrop of the ruins of the X-Mansion. This visual decision suggests a serious threat looming over the Marvel Universe. Prominent characters such as Doctor Doom, played by Robert Downey Jr., make significant appearances. In contrast to his famous portrayal of Tony Stark, Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom takes on a unique accent, possibly indicating a shift from his earlier role and intriguing fans with a new take on a cherished character.

The trailer also featured beloved Marvel heroes, including Thor and Steve Rogers, who seem to be preparing for the challenges that lie ahead. This inclusion of established favorites underscores Marvel’s ongoing strategy of interweaving character arcs, ensuring that fans remain engaged and invested.

### Disney’s ‘Infinity Vision’

Alongside film previews, CinemaCon also announced “Infinity Vision,” a new screen certification from Disney and Marvel. This initiative aims to establish a new benchmark for theatrical presentations, with speculation that it could rival IMAX. The timing of this announcement coincides with the release of *Doomsday*, emphasizing Disney’s strategic maneuvers in the competitive film landscape. Notably, Disney’s approach to Infinity Vision did not include new construction or equipment; instead, it appears to be a branding initiative designed to enhance the viewer experience in existing theaters.

### Upcoming Releases and Fan Anticipation

As anticipation builds for *Avengers: Doomsday*, a re-release of *Avengers: Endgame* has been scheduled for September 25, 2026, featuring new footage intended to directly connect the narrative with *Doomsday*. Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige confirmed that the new film will pick up immediately following the events of *Endgame*, suggesting a smooth transition that could enrich the overall storyline.

*Avengers: Doomsday* is set for a theatrical release on December 18, 2026. Before this, fans can look forward to *Spider-Man: Brand New Day*, premiering on July 31, 2026, although further details regarding Spider-Man’s role in *Doomsday* remain unclear.

### Conclusion

CinemaCon 2026 reinforced the excitement enveloping Marvel’s cinematic universe and the tactics employed by studios to innovate the theatrical experience. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of *Avengers: Doomsday*, the potential for new narratives, character developments, and cutting-edge viewing technologies promises to keep audiences engaged in the cinematic realm well into the future.

**Fortune’s Run Developer Unveils Update Following Prison Term**

In January 2025, Dizzie, the independent developer responsible for the immersive shooter *Fortune’s Run*, declared that progress on the game had been halted indefinitely due to her incarceration. Details about her situation were limited, but Dizzie mentioned that her three-year sentence originated from a violent history, which she recognized as a result of her previous conduct. After a year, she recently posted an update on Steam revealing her release from prison and her enthusiasm to continue development on the well-received Early Access game.

In an upbeat manner, Dizzie stated on Steam: “Great news, everyone! I’m composing this Steam post on a computer instead of dictating it through the jail phone!” She humorously called her release an “anti-climactic resolution to the season 1 finale cliffhanger.” Although her early release from prison prompted inquiries, she briefly recounted her experience and how her rehabilitation attempts were perceived, explaining, “the parole board assessed my case and promptly kicked my ass out of jail. Hurray! The system works!”

Now adapting to life post-incarceration, Dizzie is residing in a halfway house, and with the exit of former co-developer Arachne, she is tasked with the difficult job of reorganizing the game’s development. She expressed a need to reevaluate the game’s content that Arachne had contributed to ensure a successful launch: “It’s time to be a responsible adult and not spend months crafting soldering minigames so that you all actually get to see a 1.0.”

Dizzie aims for a new build of *Fortune’s Run* to be released in six months, with a full launch expected within a year. However, she admitted these timelines are rough estimates due to her recent adjustment from incarceration.

During her imprisonment, Dizzie shared troubling accounts of her situation, including allegations of mistreatment and insufficient access to services that would support her rehabilitation. She characterized the prison environment as one that fostered negative behaviors and went on to reveal her creative work during this time, which involved conceptualizing a roguelike game. This game would incorporate a parasitic mushroom mechanic, enabling players to infest and alter defeated enemies, featuring a unique openGL renderer that she sketched on paper in her cell.

The events surrounding Dizzie’s incarceration and subsequent release have ignited conversations about the justice system and its capacity for rehabilitation. Critics and supporters hold diverse views on her journey and the ramifications of her return to game development. Regardless, Dizzie’s story underscores the significance of second chances and the necessity for a system that aids individuals in transforming their lives after fulfilling their sentences.

As she steps back into the development of *Fortune’s Run*, the gaming community is closely observing, eager to see how her experiences might shape the game’s future trajectory.

**Iron Galaxy Confronts Layoffs in Response to Shifting Industry Dynamics**

Iron Galaxy, a well-known game development studio based in Chicago, celebrated for its proficiency in porting games across various platforms, has revealed substantial layoffs potentially impacting up to 90 staff members. This announcement follows the studio receiving favorable critiques for its work on the remastered collection of *Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4*. The layoffs indicate a transformation in the company’s operations as it grapples with a shifting gaming industry landscape.

The layoffs were announced in a LinkedIn post, where the company pointed out that since 2020, the video game sector has experienced crucial changes, prompting many within the industry to hope for a return to “normal” operational conditions. However, Iron Galaxy has acknowledged that the evolving market requires a reevaluation of its operational strategy. The studio remarked, “Players engage with games in new manners. Publishers have revised standards for funding game development,” underscoring how these alterations affect their alliances and internal practices.

Established in 2008, Iron Galaxy has garnered recognition as a work-for-hire studio, aiding developers on some of the largest gaming franchises, such as *Killer Instinct*, the *Batman: Arkham* series, and *Borderlands*. In a noteworthy attempt, the studio collaborated with Epic Games to introduce its original IP, *Rumbleverse*, a live-service multiplayer wrestling game that regrettably failed to maintain its momentum and was discontinued within its first year. The exit of PlayStation veteran Adam Boyes, who held the position of co-CEO, further highlighted the studio’s challenging path.

Although the company succeeded in avoiding layoffs for a period after the lackluster launch of *Rumbleverse* by persistently engaging in co-development tasks—including work on the PC version of *The Last of Us Part 2: Remastered*—the ongoing pressure within the industry ultimately led to these difficult choices. Previously, Iron Galaxy had to implement layoffs to ensure long-term sustainability, cutting its workforce by 66 employees under arduous circumstances.

The current economic state for console gaming indicates signs of stagnation, with major successes becoming increasingly uncommon and external investments diminishing. Iron Galaxy expressed sorrow over the necessity of these layoffs, stating, “We are profoundly sorry to part with them as we take measures to adjust to the landscape of the video game industry. It’s time for us to evolve once more.”

This restructuring mirrors wider trends within the gaming industry, where studios must consistently adapt to evolving consumer tastes, investment standards, and market fluctuations to remain competitive. As Iron Galaxy maneuvers through these obstacles, its future trajectory remains uncertain amid a rapidly changing industry landscape.

# Crimson Desert: An Analysis of the Anticipated RPG

**Introduction**

Crimson Desert, crafted by Pearl Abyss, surprisingly seized the interest of gamers in 2026, swiftly evolving into one of the year’s most awaited releases. This expansive, open-world, single-player fantasy RPG debuted on April 19 and has attracted substantial attention on platforms such as Steam and PlayStation 5. Despite its flaws, the game has successfully retained players within its photorealistic environment.

## Early Reception and Critiques

At launch, initial impressions of Crimson Desert were varied. Critics like Jason Schreier from Bloomberg characterized the game as being more suited for players keen on consuming content rather than exploring depth. While many lauded its striking graphics and extensive open world, others argued it fell short on engaging gameplay, with Polygon pointing out a significant lack of compelling content even after numerous hours of play. The game achieved a Metacritic score of 78, which is commendable but did not meet the lofty expectations fueled by the hype it created.

## Impact on Pearl Abyss

The mixed feedback negatively impacted Pearl Abyss’s stock, which dropped nearly 30% within 24 hours post-launch. This decline underscored investor worries about the game’s long-term sustainability despite the enthusiastic reactions from devoted fans.

## Common Criticism: Controls

A pervasive critique among gamers and reviewers centered on the game’s controls, frequently described as cumbersome and non-intuitive. Numerous players voiced their frustrations on Reddit, pointing out challenges with movement and navigating the menus. In light of widespread feedback, Pearl Abyss pledged to enhance controls in upcoming updates.

## Unique Features: Cat Interactions

Notwithstanding its shortcomings, Crimson Desert has been praised for its quirky elements, such as the ability to pick up and pet cats scattered throughout the game world. This delightful interaction struck a chord with players, creating charming moments amid the broader criticisms of the game.

## Controversies: AI-Generated Art

Shortly post-launch, players identified what seemed to be AI-generated art within the game, sparking controversy regarding its quality. Pearl Abyss asserted that this was temporary artwork inadvertently left in the game and vowed to correct it in future updates.

## Patching and Improvements

In the week after its release, Crimson Desert received three significant patches designed to fix bugs and enhance controls. This proactive stance by Pearl Abyss has resulted in a marked increase in the game’s player ratings on Steam, climbing from a 51% positive rating to 86% following multiple updates.

## Visuals vs. Gameplay

While the game’s captivating visuals garnered praise, players found the gameplay less compelling. Some expressed a longing for more profound quests and richer content. Despite the upgrades, there persists a feeling that Crimson Desert has yet to fully unlock its potential.

## Future Directions: Porting and Game Dynamics

Pearl Abyss has alluded to a possible port of Crimson Desert to the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, although this would likely require adjustments due to the console’s capabilities. Furthermore, some players have raised questions about the balance of the game, especially regarding enemy respawns after clearing locations, indicating that more dynamic content is vital for sustained engagement.

## Sales Success

As of April 15, Crimson Desert reported remarkable sales, exceeding five million copies sold. This achievement underscores the game’s market impact, suggesting that, despite its difficulties, it has found resonance with a considerable audience.

## Conclusion

Crimson Desert exemplifies the intricacies of contemporary game development and player expectations. As Pearl Abyss continues to polish and expand the game via updates informed by player feedback, there remains optimism that the RPG can transform into the experience many had hoped for at launch. The fusion of an immersive world with the trials of narrative and gameplay balance will be crucial in shaping its legacy within the gaming sphere.

**Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Achieves Historic Game of the Year Award Sweep**

*Introduction*

The gaming community has been buzzing since the victory of *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*, a French role-playing game (RPG) that has not only captivated players globally but also excelled in the awards landscape. Following its impressive achievements last year, which included numerous accolades at esteemed events like the Game Awards, the game has recently claimed the BAFTA award for Best Game of 2025, cementing its status as a groundbreaking title in the gaming sector.

*BAFTA Game Awards 2026 Success*

On April 17, 2026, the gaming audience experienced a historic event during the BAFTA Game Awards when *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33* received the prestigious Best Game award. Competing against renowned titles such as *Arc Raiders, Blue Prince, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Ghost of Yotei,* and *Dispatch*, *Expedition 33* triumphed despite the fierce rivalry. This accomplishment signifies a major turning point, as it has become one of only two games in history to capture the top honor across all five major Game of the Year (GOTY) categories.

*Major Game of the Year Awards Won*

With its recent triumph at the BAFTA awards, *Clair Obscur* has attained the Game of the Year title at the following five esteemed events:

1. Golden Joystick Awards
2. The Game Awards
3. DICE Awards
4. Game Developers Choice Awards
5. BAFTA Game Awards

This unparalleled success positions *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33* among an elite group, sharing this recognition with only *Baldur’s Gate 3*, another game that has accomplished the sweep.

*Critical Acclaim and Player Reception*

The game’s triumph can be credited to its revival of classic RPG elements, which have resonated with both fans and critics alike. It showcases engaging turn-based gameplay, an enthralling narrative that draws players in, and breathtaking art design that enlivens its world. Jennifer English’s portrayal of the character Maelle has especially been noted, earning her the accolade for Best Performer in a Leading Role at the BAFTA Game Awards.

*Looking Ahead*

As *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33* establishes a new benchmark for excellence in gaming, the industry is left speculating which title might be next to reach this extraordinary milestone. Will it be another single-player RPG that enchants both players and critics? Only time will reveal, but the standard set by *Clair Obscur* is bound to motivate developers and ignite enthusiasm among gamers for years to come.

### New York’s Mayor Zohran Mamdani: Mario Kart and the Call for Universal Child Care

In a unique yet perceptive manner, New York’s Mayor Zohran Mamdani draws connections between city governance and the beloved video game **Mario Kart** to promote universal child care funding. Through an innovative method of raising awareness, Mamdani appeals not only to the emotions of his audience but also makes intricate political topics accessible to a younger audience.

#### The Initiative for Child Care Action Fund

The Child Care Action Fund is the focal point of Mamdani’s ongoing campaign, which seeks to provide universal child care for every family in NYC. To date, the initiative has effectively accumulated **$3.5 million**, though it still needs an extra **$16.5 million** to reach its overall target. This amount pales in comparison to the daily incomes of billionaires such as Jeff Bezos, raising concerns about wealth distribution and corporate accountability. Mamdani urges affluent New Yorkers to come forward and back social initiatives, highlighting the crucial role of philanthropy in filling the void left by governmental funding.

#### Leveraging Mario Kart as an Analogy

During a recent press conference, Mamdani compared government action and philanthropy to characters in Mario Kart. He depicted the government as **Yoshi**, a character in the game, while philanthropy is likened to the **Golden Mushroom**, a power-up that grants a competitive advantage. “Government is steering the racer, and philanthropy is there to provide that turbo boost to cross the finish line,” he remarked. He further articulated, “In this scenario, Bowser symbolizes corporate greed,” emphasizing the barriers that hinder progress and fairness in society.

This analogy strikes a chord, particularly with younger viewers familiar with **Mario Kart**. The game’s mechanics ensure that those who lag behind receive advantageous items to assist them in catching up, starkly contrasting the current socio-economic reality in the U.S., where privileged individuals frequently continue to secure benefits. Mamdani’s metaphor underscores the necessity for systemic reform and the collective effort required to foster a more just society.

#### The Significance of Philanthropy

Mamdani’s request for contributions to the Child Care Action Fund also opens a broader discussion about the significance of philanthropy in contemporary governance. As various social programs confront funding reductions or limitations, philanthropic support can offer vital assistance for essential services. By involving affluent individuals in this discourse, Mamdani aims to motivate leaders in the private sector to acknowledge their duty in nurturing community well-being.

#### Conclusion

By utilizing engaging and relatable metaphors, Mayor Zohran Mamdani effectively reframes important political topics in a manner that encourages public participation. His distinct approach not only highlights the vital funding deficit for child care in New York but also acts as a rallying cry for those able to lend assistance. By comparing government and philanthropy to a race in **Mario Kart**, he emphasizes the necessity of collaboration in overcoming the challenges posed by corporate greed and social disparity.