Gait Games

**Valve Boosts Performance Insights for Steam Deck Developers**

Valve is making meaningful advancements to assist developers of games that have received the Steam Deck Verified label. Recent enhancements focus on improving the performance of games on this handheld console, raising questions regarding the effectiveness of the Verified system itself.

On April 23, Valve unveiled new functionalities via its Steamworks Development blog aimed at helping developers optimize their titles for the Steam Deck. A notable addition is a tool that furnishes developers with data about the average framerate of their games over the last 30 days. At present, this information is limited to titles designated as Steam Deck Verified. Nevertheless, Valve has expressed intentions to extend access to developers of Playable-rated titles in the future.

Alongside framerate metrics, Valve is implementing another beneficial asset: player surveys. Following a minimum ten-minute play session of a Steam Deck Verified title, participants are prompted to provide feedback on whether they agree with the game’s Verified designation. Disagreements can be communicated through a range of predefined reasons, including concerns regarding performance and stability. This initiative seeks to equip developers with actionable feedback to improve the gaming experience based on user perspectives.

Interestingly, Valve’s survey outcomes reveal that an impressive 95 percent of players align with the Verified status of the games they have experienced. This figure raises questions about the demographics of those who dissent, as well as whether dissent mainly stems from a select number of games. Notable instances have surfaced, such as *Borderlands 4*, which has attained verified status despite allegedly lacking in performance. This inconsistency raises issues about the dependability of the Verified label, particularly as larger, more demanding titles test the Steam Deck’s limits.

As Valve continues to broaden its hardware offerings, including projects like the Steam Frame VR system and the Steam Machine console, these new analytical tools and data insights possess the potential to aid developers in ensuring peak performance across various SteamOS devices.

In summary, while Valve’s initiatives to provide developers with performance metrics and user feedback may enhance the overall gameplay on the Steam Deck, the ongoing discussion regarding the credibility of the Verified system underscores the challenges of maintaining quality across different gaming experiences. The success of these efforts will be crucial as the gaming environment evolves and as developers aim to meet the expectations of both the platform and its audience.

**Baldur’s Gate 3: Prequel Novel Featuring Astarion Announced**

Enthusiasts of _Baldur’s Gate 3_ will be excited to find out that the charismatic vampire spawn Astarion is set to have his own prequel novel. This thrilling revelation was made by _Polygon_, shining a light on the partnership between Larian Studios, Wizards of the Coast, and Random House Worlds, aimed at enhancing the game’s elaborate lore and unforgettable characters through a collection of books.

The forthcoming novel, named _Baldur’s Gate 3: Astarion_, is penned by T. Kingfisher, a celebrated author recognized for her work in the science fiction and fantasy fields, including distinguished titles like _Nettle & Bone_ and _Thornhedge_. Senior writer Stephen Rooney from _Baldur’s Gate 3_ provided insight into the storyline to guarantee authenticity and richness. This narrative will delve into Astarion’s existence prior to the game’s events, concentrating on his experiences under the domination of the malevolent vampire lord, Cazador Szarr. Enhancing the experience, Neil Newbon, who lends his voice to Astarion in the game, will narrate the audiobook, offering fans a familiar and captivating listening journey.

In addition to Astarion’s narrative, three other books are expected to debut this year. However, these supplementary titles do not center around character-focused stories. One of these is a blank journal mirroring _The Necromancy of Thay_, an item featured in the game, while another is a coloring book with 40 illustrations for fans to fill in. Particularly significant is _A Feast for a Tenday: The Official Baldur’s Gate Cookbook_ by Andrew Wheeler, which promises to deliver a culinary experience with 65 recipes inspired by the game, enabling fans to incorporate the tastes of Faerûn into their cooking.

While enthusiasts express optimism for more novels centered on cherished characters like Shadowheart and Karlach, these projects seem to be on a far-off horizon, possibly not arriving until 2027. At the same time, an HBO series based on _Baldur’s Gate 3_ is in the works, set to continue the storyline introduced by the game, even though Larian Studios is currently busy with their ongoing projects related to the _Divinity_ series and is not directly involved with the series.

With Astarion’s novel on the way, fans have a lot to anticipate in uncovering the deeper narratives behind the characters of _Baldur’s Gate 3_, enhancing the immersive journey of this cherished franchise.

A recent report indicates that the next blockbuster video game attracting Hollywood’s interest is EA’s *Battlefield*, which could initiate one of the largest bidding contests as notable figures get involved in the project. This development intimates that *Call of Duty* and *Battlefield* could escalate their rivalry into a new domain: the box office.

As detailed by *The Hollywood Reporter*, director and writer Christopher McQuarrie, recognized for his contributions to the *Mission: Impossible* franchise, along with actor and producer Michael B. Jordan, are said to be attached to the *Battlefield* movie adaptation. McQuarrie is expected to write, direct, and produce the film, while Jordan’s role as a producer may extend to starring in the movie—although his final call will probably hinge on various factors, including budget considerations and the quality of the script.

The endeavor is presently being pitched to multiple Hollywood studios, with EA being involved as a producer, underlining the intention for a theatrical release. The blend of EA’s strategic management and the participation of high-profile talent indicates that this will be a costly venture. Both McQuarrie and Jordan, prominent figures in the industry, will require considerable remuneration. Nevertheless, given that *Battlefield 6* was the top-selling game in 2025, studios are likely to be keen to acquire this promising project.

### *Battlefield* vs *Call of Duty*: Hollywood Edition

The introduction of the *Battlefield* film arrives at a notable moment, as *Call of Duty* is also preparing for its cinematic launch. Paramount is accelerating the production of a *Call of Duty* film, based on Activision’s legendary first-person shooter franchise, perpetuating the enduring rivalry between these two significant game franchises that has thrived on gaming consoles and PCs.

This competition had waned following the critical and commercial reception of *Battlefield V* in 2018 and *Battlefield 2042* in 2021, which did not meet EA’s expectations, while *Call of Duty* continued to have a stronger market share. However, in a surprising shift, *Battlefield* surpassed *Call of Duty* in 2025, prompting Activision to acknowledge fan dissatisfaction with *Black Ops 7* and commit to enhancements in the future.

With both franchises now competing for box office acclaim, there is great anticipation surrounding their reception. While the prospects of a *Battlefield* film and a *Call of Duty* release evoke mixed emotions of enthusiasm and skepticism, McQuarrie’s skill and Jordan’s growing star appeal could impact the results.

The *Call of Duty* film is planned for release in June 2028, while the release date for the *Battlefield* movie is yet to be confirmed.

# Final Fantasy XIV Fan Fest Keynote: Significant Announcements and the Arrival of Evercold

Today’s Final Fantasy XIV Fan Fest keynote was filled with exhilarating updates for enthusiasts of the cherished MMORPG. At the forefront of the announcements was the unveiling of the name and release timeframe for the highly awaited sixth expansion, **Evercold**. This expansion promises to introduce new content and gameplay mechanics for the community.

## The Debut of Final Fantasy XIV on Nintendo Switch 2

A particularly exhilarating part of the keynote occurred when Square Enix CEO Takashi Kiryu made an unexpected appearance to declare that **FFXIV** would be launching on the Nintendo platform, specifically the upcoming **Nintendo Switch 2**. Set for release in August, players can anticipate a month-long free early access trial preceding the official launch.

The audience’s reaction was electric, with cheers resonating as the Switch 2 logo lit up the screen. While speculation about this port had been prevalent for a while, the announcement still caught many off guard.

## Key Information Regarding the Switch 2 Port

Despite the overwhelmingly positive news, a significant caveat exists: players will need to secure a separate subscription and license for the Switch 2 version, akin to current platforms such as PC, Mac, Xbox, and PlayStation. However, there is a bright side: the subscription cost will be reduced by half for those holding an active subscription on other platforms. Unlike these other versions, the Switch 2 port will feature cross-progression capability, enabling players to transition between platforms while retaining their progress.

Director Yoshi-P demonstrated the game operating on the Switch 2, showcasing a solid performance as he explored the iconic Limsa Lominsa plaza. However, concerns arose as the gameplay footage was not displayed on the large screen behind Yoshi-P, sparking speculation regarding the game’s performance on the handheld device.

## Community Feedback and Future Considerations

The pricing model surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 port raised eyebrows, as the **FFXIV** team noted that this decision followed extensive talks with Nintendo. In an unexpected turn, the port does not mandate a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, leaving many fans perplexed.

Despite these apprehensions, the opportunity for **FFXIV** to attract a wider audience on the Switch 2 is significant, especially with the **Evercold** expansion on the way. Additionally, Yoshi-P’s playful comment about the game’s character creator potentially adding a “butt slider” further enhances the excitement generated by the keynote.

As anticipation builds within the community, many are excited to see how Square Enix tackles the technical hurdles of adapting this expansive game to the Nintendo Switch 2. The innovative features and content releases are sure to keep **FFXIV** at the center of conversations as both newcomers and seasoned players prepare for the future of Eorzea.

### Discovering *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33* – A Year of Achievement and Development

*Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*, crafted by Sandfall Interactive, has left a notable mark since its launch a year ago. With numerous accolades from various award ceremonies, the game has solidified its position as a key player in the RPG landscape. Commemorating its first anniversary, the game has recently rolled out a minor update that features fresh hair styles for its characters, further elevating its distinctive style.

#### A Game Deserving of Attention

For anyone who hasn’t yet immersed themselves in *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*, now is an ideal opportunity. Priced at a discounted rate of $40 on Steam until April 30, the standard edition encompasses all prior free updates, presenting a compelling choice for both newcomers and those wanting to experience the game in its entirety.

The title boasts a gripping emotional story intertwined with a complex and demanding turn-based combat system, ensuring players face a blend of obstacles and sentiments throughout their adventure. While the primary narrative can be wrapped up in around 30 hours, players will discover an array of high-level endgame challenges that enhance both depth and replayability.

#### Accessibility and Gameplay Journey

For subscribers of Xbox Game Pass, *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33* is easily accessible at no additional charge, enabling a wider audience to engage with its moving storytelling and immersive gameplay. The game not only captivates with its narrative centered around loss but also rewards players with evolving gameplay through regular updates from Sandfall Interactive.

Fans may recognize voice actor Charlie Cox, famous for his role as Daredevil, who brings an added dimension to the character of Gustave within the game. His participation enhances the overall experience, attracting players who value impressive voice acting in video games.

#### What is on the Horizon

As players traverse through *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*, they are likely to find themselves eagerly anticipating updates regarding Sandfall Interactive’s next venture. The journey through this beautifully designed RPG allows for emotional connections and mastery of gameplay mechanics, establishing it as a noteworthy title to explore.

For both new players and devoted fans of the genre, *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33* shines as a creative triumph worth investigating. With its anniversary promotion, there’s no better moment to delve into the emotional richness and strategic gameplay that this celebrated RPG presents.

The most horrifying thing that ever happened to me while playing Game Boy was a school ‘friend’ flicking the power switch while getting off the train, just as I’d finally beaten that one maddeningly obscure block puzzle in The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening. He’s lucky he’s not buried somewhere under the railway lines between Shipley and Baildon. There were Game Boy horror games, but they were mostly crammed-down approximations of Resident Evil and the like, and I found them about as spooky as a frowning Potato Head. The Third Shift is out to address this lapse, and so far, it is doing it extremely well.

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**Final Fantasy XIV Fan Festival: Thrilling Announcements and Updates on Character Customization**

Final Fantasy XIV enthusiasts are in for an exciting experience as Square Enix presents the yearly Fan Festival in Anaheim, revealing a multitude of fresh content for the cherished MMORPG. Among the most eagerly awaited announcements is the forthcoming expansion named **Evercold**, scheduled for release in January. Furthermore, players can anticipate an engaging crossover raid inspired by the legendary mech anime **Neon Genesis Evangelion**.

The presentation at the event showcased insights from director Naoki Yoshida, who provided updates on the future path of Final Fantasy XIV. A significant highlight was the introduction of improvements to the character creation toolkit. While several thrilling modifications were announced, such as the addition of color selectors for hair, eyes, and skin tone, along with face paint layering and refined choices for eye and lip personalization, Yoshida confirmed that butt sliders will not be included in the update… “yet”.

The playful exchange surrounding character customization generated laughter and applause from the audience, with fans humorously voicing their wishes for more features. One tweet jestfully alluded to a conversation between Koji Fox and Yoshida, implying that butt sliders might be on the table for future updates. The jovial tone of the dialogue suggested Square Enix’s openness to considering fan input regarding character customization.

Although the existing character creator options have posed challenges for some players eager to engage with the game, the well-regarded fashion systems in Final Fantasy XIV offer a solid platform for personalization. Enhancements to character design, which may include facial hair options and possibly the addition of butt sliders, could broaden the game’s appeal to a larger audience.

With the **Evercold** expansion approaching and continual advancements in character customization, the future of Final Fantasy XIV appears bright. Fans are keenly awaiting what’s next as Square Enix keeps on enhancing the game experience.

The Logitech G29/G920 racing wheel design has been around for the best part of a decade, and has introduced countless people to the world of sim racing – myself included. It’s a humble but well-made wheel with gear-driven force feedback, a full set of on-board controls, and convenient compatibility with console and PC (the console depends on the model you choose; both work with Windows) that makes it a versatile choice for sim racers just starting out. What’s more, at £169 from Amazon for both G29 and G920 variants, it’s the lowest this wheel has been since Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

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### Final Fantasy XIV: Evercold Expansion Announcement

Fantastic news for *Final Fantasy XIV* fans, though it poses a challenge for new players: the MMORPG is about to grow with a significant expansion titled *Evercold*, set to launch in January 2027. During the keynote at the *Final Fantasy XIV* Fan Festival, Square Enix revealed a teaser trailer for this eagerly awaited addition, marking an important chapter in the game’s ongoing storyline.

#### A New Story Arc: The Godless Realms Saga

*Evercold* marks the start of the Godless Realms Saga, a new narrative journey that diverges from the singular overall saga that has connected the game’s content for the last 13 years. This transition indicates that *FFXIV* will continue to flourish and transform, rather than being replaced by a sequel, providing reassurance to long-time fans about the MMORPG’s future.

#### Exploring the Fourth Reflection

While the teaser trailer for *Evercold* remains quite mysterious, it highlights the frigid landscape of the Fourth Reflection, an alternate realm introducing players to new territories and challenges. Square Enix has hinted at more visual content, including concept artwork that suggests the vast and visually captivating world players can anticipate.

#### Bridging the Gap: Upcoming Patches

This expansion arrives roughly two years after the last major update, *Dawntrail*, which received mixed feedback. To set the stage for *Evercold*, a series of patches will be launched, starting with Patch 7.5 on April 28th, aimed at bridging the narrative and gameplay experiences between the two expansions.

#### Exciting New Features

Anticipation also grows around the addition of new gameplay elements in *FFXIV*. Two new jobs—a tank and a physical ranged DPS—will be introduced, along with improvements such as same-region player matching and enhanced character creation features. The announcement of character customization options was met with enthusiastic applause at the Fan Festival, although director Yoshi-P humorously noted that while upgrades are on the way, there will be “no butt sliders…yet.”

#### Returning to the Game

With every new expansion, many players, including myself, find ourselves reminiscing and returning to *FFXIV* to keep pace with the story. Though I often gravitate towards fishing instead of progressing through the narrative, the anticipation of new content and experiences in *Evercold* ignites my curiosity and excitement for what lies ahead in this vast MMORPG.

As the launch date approaches, *Evercold* promises to be an extraordinary addition to *Final Fantasy XIV*, inviting both veteran players and newcomers to delve into its icy terrains and rich storytelling.

One of the first times I remember seeing an optical analog gaming keyboard hit the mainsteam was the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog launch in 2021 – what feels like naffing ages ago now. Since then, we’ve seen keyboards gain more controller-like tech, like rapid trigger inputs and Hall Effect switches, but optical analog boards are where it all started, and the Huntsman v2 Analog remains a fine option today – especially when it’s going cheap.

When this keyboard was new, it retailed for $250, although with this current discount, a brand-new one (with its 1-year Razer warranty) is down to $70 from Woot. That works out to 72% off, which I needn’t say is quite something.

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