Gait Games

## Kotaku Checkpoint Roundup for June 3, 2026

PlayerUnknown discloses financial issues. An unexpected partnership emerges in Japan. And the Sony State of Play aftermath lingers. I am still recuperating from my experience diving back into *Marathon*, which felt just as bewildering as this. Perhaps tonight I’ll tend to my wounds and construct a Gundam in *Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom* instead.

### *God of War Laufey* Caught in the Reactionary Backlash

The upcoming game in the *God of War* franchise does not feature Kratos. Instead, Faye, his late wife, takes the lead in the afterlife. This change has become the newest first-party PlayStation title to encounter backlash from a vocal minority online. Anti-woke critics are channeling their frustration at yet another notable game showcasing a female character, rendering the backlash as another aspect of the ongoing culture clash.

Social media algorithms also complicate the challenge of managing this negativity. Despite high YouTube dislikes on the *Laufey* trailer, the comments section displays users engaging positively with humor and excitement regarding the Santa Monica Studios project. Previous titles like *Ghost of Yotei* and *Marathon* faced comparable criticisms but were unaffected in their launches.

Brands are leveraging the outrage as well. Domino’s UK jokingly tweeted, “*God of War* game with no Kratos = Pepperoni Passion with no pepperoni,” which Sony Santa Monica acknowledged in their response.

### *Control* Dissonance

Remedy Entertainment’s next action title surfaced during the recent State of Play, unveiling a release date of September 24, though the YouTube trailer hinted at August 27—a discrepancy implying a possible delay. The game will feature a 48-hour early access window for premium buyers on PlayStation 5, set at $60, below the typical $70 for premium titles.

Communications director Thoma Puha highlighted the significance of launching a polished game rather than rushing to release. In response to player concerns about the absence of early access for PC and Xbox users, he remarked, “We are addressing a few communication matters on a few topics…”

### *Marvel’s Wolverine* Will Not Receive a Collector’s Edition

In contrast to the much-talked-about collector’s edition of *Spider-Man 2*, which drew attention for its 19-inch Venom figure, Insomniac Games has opted against a collector’s edition for *Marvel’s Wolverine*, choosing a Deluxe Edition instead. Fans voiced their disappointment, reminiscing about the lost chance for a similarly striking Wolverine figure and questioning the lack of a special DualSense announcement.

### PlayerUnknown Productions is Experiencing Layoffs

Brendan Greene, the original designer of *PUBG* and founder of PlayerUnknown Productions, has announced the need to downsize the studio due to recent challenges in the survival games sector. Greene expressed, “Regrettably, I have reached the limits of how long I can continue to finance this endeavor in its current state. Consequently, I have made the difficult choice to restructure the studio.” The company will continue developing its Melba technology but will halt further progress on *Go Wayback*, while focusing on supporting affected employees.

### The Creator of *El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron* Collaborates with *Vampire Survivors* Developer Poncle

In an unexpected alliance, Sawaki Takeyasu, CEO of Crim and creator of *El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron*, will lead a new team in Japan under Poncle, the studio responsible for *Vampire Survivors*. This partnership signifies mutual respect between Takeyasu and Poncle’s creator, Luca Galante. Poncle aims to establish a presence in Japan while continuing to work with relatively small development teams.

For those interested, *El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron* was a cult hit during the latter PS3 period.

### ICYMI:

*Watch this:* [Link to desired content]

### Strauss Zelnick Added to WWE 2K26: A Digital Debate

Take-Two Interactive’s CEO Strauss Zelnick has been introduced as a playable character in WWE 2K26, the newest entry in the WWE video game franchise. This unforeseen addition has ignited curiosity and debate among gamers and industry analysts alike.

#### Update Highlights

On June 3, 2026, WWE 2K26 underwent a major content update as part of its third season. While it brought notable wrestlers like Terri Wilson and Brian Pillman, Zelnick’s role as a “wrestler” was not highlighted in the official announcements from the developers. Instead, players found his character subtly incorporated into the game, presenting a unique angle on the wrestling franchise’s depiction of figures from the gaming world.

Zelnick’s character is accompanied by a distinctive entrance that features the iconic song “My Way” by Frank Sinatra, which is specifically linked to him and unavailable for other characters. This entrance reflects Zelnick’s professional history and the developers’ meticulous attention to detail, as commentators discuss his journey in the video game sector while he approaches the virtual ring.

#### Game Stats and Controversy

Although he is a digital executive, Zelnick has received a player rating of 77. While this places him lower than many renowned wrestling personalities, including the esteemed Triple H, it positions him above various significant characters, such as Eddie Guerrero and William Regal. This rating has caused some surprise, emphasizing the unconventional choice to depict a business executive in a wrestling simulation game.

Zelnick’s inclusion has initiated conversations about the evolving perception of gaming executives as celebrities. Many gamers now track these individuals like entertainment figures, at times disregarding their business choices that influence staff and the game development environment. The decision to feature Zelnick can be seen as an extension of this trend, crafting a scenario where the separation between business and entertainment is increasingly blurred.

#### A Question of Appropriateness

The presence of Zelnick as a playable character opens a multi-faceted dialogue about representation in video gaming, particularly considering that several individuals laid off during his tenure might interpret this depiction differently. It raises critical concerns about the suitability of honoring corporate personas in a medium that allows players to enact violence and retribution toward their avatars.

The omission of Zelnick from the official patch notes suggests that the developers recognize the potential mixed reception of his inclusion within the community. The decision has thus led to varied responses, indicating not only an oddity in game content updates but also a possibly misguided approach to addressing community attitudes toward corporate gaming culture.

#### The Future of Zelnick in Gaming

As discussions continue about the implications of Zelnick’s digital character, speculation emerges regarding his potential appearance in upcoming titles like Grand Theft Auto VI. In light of the controversies tied to his character in WWE 2K26, it remains uncertain if he or similar figures will further challenge the boundaries of corporate and gaming culture.

In summary, the addition of Strauss Zelnick to WWE 2K26 represents a curious convergence of gaming, corporate identity, and player perception, prompting a thorough examination of how game developers opt to represent industry leaders in their works.

Cute though!

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### The Excitement Surrounding a Nintendo Direct Presentation: A Glimpse Forward

Within the ever-changing realm of gaming, console manufacturers have traditionally presented their forthcoming games through grand press events, particularly as E3 approaches. Nonetheless, as the gaming scene transformed, the preference for large-scale gatherings diminished, contributing to E3’s decline. Nevertheless, the essence of such presentations seems to be revived this year, especially with whispers indicating a possible Nintendo Direct slated for June.

#### The Speculated Nintendo Direct

The buzz regarding the Nintendo Direct started to intensify earlier this month when gaming reporter Jeff Grubb from Giant Bomb alluded to an event happening on June 9. In the newest episode of the Last of the Nintendogs podcast, Grubb mentioned it would occur in the morning. To add to the anticipation, fellow insider NateTheHate validated similar information on his podcast, asserting, “We’ll be getting that answer very soon,” and highlighting that the Direct is likely to take place in the second week of June, aligning with the week of the eighth.

#### A Revival of Customs

Nintendo customarily organizes a Direct in June; however, in recent times, its announcements have become more unpredictable, often shared through casual means like tweets or the Nintendo Today! app. If the rumors hold true, this year’s presentation would signify a return to a more structured and conventional style, in harmony with Geoff Keighley’s overarching Summer Game Fest event. This alignment could grant fans an extensive trailer showcase reminiscent of E3’s golden era.

#### Anticipated Releases and Hopes

Nintendo has a lineup of expected announcements for 2026 that raise the stakes for this possible Direct. According to insider NateTheHate, a remake of the cherished classic, *The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time*, is reportedly slated for launch during the holiday season. Additionally, a new *Star Fox* installment is claimed to be in the works, alongside the still-uncertain release date of *Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave*. Moreover, Nintendo has hinted that there are further fall titles yet to be disclosed.

The inaugural year of the Switch 2 has experienced a less robust array of significant third-party ports than initially thought. High-profile titles like *Borderlands 4* have been postponed, while games such as *Elden Ring* remain uncertain. Rumors regarding games like *Red Dead Redemption 2* making their debut on the Switch 2 have been circulating, though official confirmations are still pending. Ultimately, the possibility of unveiling a new 3D *Mario* game could act as a substantial morale booster for fans, fostering engagement and enthusiasm within the community.

#### Conclusion

As the gaming community looks forward to the confirmation of the Nintendo Direct, the mere anticipation signifies a promising resurgence of excitement for traditional gaming showcases. With an array of potential announcements approaching, including remakes and new franchises, the June Direct could represent a crucial juncture in the gaming calendar, granting fans insight into Nintendo’s future and reaffirming the company’s dedication to innovative gaming experiences.

Weird, right?

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# A Comprehensive Exploration of *God of War Laufey*: Trailer Observations

The recent *State of Play* event showcased an electrifying over 20-minute presentation of gameplay footage from the eagerly awaited *God of War Laufey*. This latest spin-off from Santa Monica Studio centers on Faye, the spouse of Kratos and mother of Atreus, who heartbreakingly passed away just prior to the events of the 2018 *God of War* reboot. The initial gameplay reveals much to analyze, illuminating Faye’s path as she traverses the afterlife and embarks on a quest interwoven with her family’s legacy.

## Faye’s Resurgence: The Dawn of a Distinct Narrative

The trailer commences with a touching scene from *God of War* (2018) in which Kratos and Atreus grieve Faye’s passing through cremation, which she had wished for. However, instead of merely portraying a prequel, the story takes a turn as Faye finds herself awakened in a strange realm, bewildered and unready for the challenges ahead. Her journey, paralleling that of Kratos and Atreus, provides a novel viewpoint, as players will follow her narrative from beyond the grave.

With vocals provided by Deborah Ann Woll, who returns in her role for *God of War Ragnarök*, Faye confronts her death in a way that highlights her physical absence and emotional connections to her family. She reflects on the ashes ceremony and conveys a desire to have bid farewell to Kratos and Atreus, setting the stage for her quest to impact their journey from the afterlife.

## A Fusion of Mythologies: Traversing the Everywhen

As Faye investigates her new environment, she stumbles upon familiar components from preceding titles. Teleportation suggests links between realms, particularly with a cadaver adorned with a mask reminiscent of the Mask of Creation from *Ragnarök*, implying potential threats faced by Kratos and Atreus in the unfolding saga. Faye’s realizations elevate the stakes as she becomes aware of the dangers threatening her loved ones.

The early game dynamics highlight Faye’s agility, contrasting with Kratos’s raw power. Players should anticipate her executing acrobatic feats, showcasing her dexterity and combat capabilities that allow her to manipulate foes in mid-air, marking a refreshing change from traditional *God of War* gameplay.

Beyond physical confrontations, the introduction of companions marks a significant development. In the newly introduced realm known as “the Everywhen,” Faye encounters a creature resembling a dragon and two distinctive beings, a gelatinous cube called Phranque and a sentient ribbon named Rue. This eclectic ensemble expands the boundaries of mythological representation in the game, suggesting new lore and ties to a broader mythological universe.

## Crossing Paths with Deities Across Pantheons

Faye’s story broadens with the emergence of various mythological characters, as she interacts with Mongolian soldiers and is taken to a prison camp where gods from diverse cultures converge. The presence of Begtse, the Mongolian god of war, alongside Sekhmet, the Egyptian goddess of war, lays fertile ground for narrative development, encapsulating the essence of multiple mythologies coexisting within a single universe.

Through her encounters with these divine figures, players will delve into profound themes of mortality and the afterlife, while also unraveling the enigmatic powers of Rue’s sword and the legacy of the characters involved. The cinematic sequences that depict Faye’s intricate interactions enrich the story, illustrating that she continues to exert influence over realms and their inhabitants.

## An Unmatched Combat Experience

As gameplay advances, Faye’s character mechanics unveil a more adaptable fighting style compared to Kratos. The full revelation of her magical abilities leads to visually vibrant spells that extract souls from bodies, blending spellcasting and martial skills. This evolution in combat mirrors the character’s deeper emotional journey as she embraces her powers while facing realities about her existence.

The heightened drama culminates in a clash between Faye and Begtse, representing her evolution as a warrior who, despite her initial losses, emerges as a powerful force. The trailer leaves viewers eagerly awaiting Faye’s complete potential and her role in shaping both her family’s destiny and the broader mythological narrative.

## Conclusion: A Bright Future for *God of War Laufey*

The compelling showcase from *State of Play* indicates that *God of War Laufey* offers a rich blend of gameplay, narrative, and philosophical themes. With a focus on Faye’s singular perspective and her integration with various mythologies, the game distinguishes itself from its predecessors.

As players anticipate more information and a release date, the opportunities for exploration within the Everywhen and beyond leave much to ponder. Faye’s journey not only invites contemplation on her role as a mother and warrior but also marks an exciting new chapter in the *God of War* saga, broadening the universe in unforeseen and captivating manners.

Following a short wait, Switch 2 owners will soon have the opportunity to enjoy Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight this fall, as announced by publisher Warner Bros., which joins the lineup of various games debuting in September.

Legacy of the Dark Knight was launched last month on Xbox Series X/S and PC, with a Switch 2 version set to follow at a later unspecified time in 2026. Now, Nintendo’s console enthusiasts, keen to immerse themselves in some DC fun, have an official release date to anticipate: Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight will be available for Switch 2 on 18th September.

Moreover, the Legacy of the Dark’s Mayhem Collection DLC will be released on the same date for Deluxe Edition owners of Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight across multiple platforms – Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC – which features the following:

• Brand new Mayhem Mode spotlighting The Joker and Harley Quinn as playable characters, each equipped with unique abilities, gadgets, and takedowns
• A fresh story mission where The Joker and Harley Quinn escape from Arkham Asylum, wreaking havoc throughout Gotham City
• Sinister Pack, featuring seven new suits (one for each original playable character), five new items for the Batcave, and a new Batmobile

Upon its launch, we rated Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight four stars, with Christian Donlan describing it as “an unending flow of references and jokes that’s hard to resist.” If you’re interested in delving deeper, I recently had a conversation with Shai Matheson, the actor voicing Batman in Legacy of the Dark Knight, about embodying the voice of his Caped Crusader and how he pays tribute to the various Batmans that came before him.

**RTX Spark: Transforming Gaming with Nvidia’s Arm-Driven Laptops**

Gaming has consistently been a crucial element in the advancement of technology, and the unveiling of Nvidia’s RTX Spark marks yet another significant progression. Although gaming may not be the central aim of RTX Spark, Nvidia’s endeavors to incorporate gaming functionalities into this groundbreaking platform are notable. The partnership between Nvidia’s developer relations team and game creators such as Remedy illustrates how essential gaming is to the core of RTX Spark.

The native Arm version of Alan Wake 2 is a compelling illustration of Nvidia’s collaboration with developers to ensure that even the most graphically intensive titles perform smoothly on RTX Spark. By closely partnering with Nvidia, Remedy has leveraged the capabilities of RTX Spark to provide an outstanding gaming experience, devoid of common issues like input delay or graphical trade-offs. The game operates flawlessly on Microsoft’s Surface Laptop Ultra, assuring superior performance even at a resolution of 2560 x 1600.

Nvidia’s alliance with MediaTek on hardware for over two and a half years is vital to the triumph of this initiative. While the timeline for Remedy’s native Arm version is yet to be revealed, the outcome is striking. Alan Wake 2 runs efficiently on this lightweight gaming laptop, guaranteeing top-level gaming without the risk of overheating.

The adaptability of RTX Spark spans various gaming applications beyond just Alan Wake 2. Nvidia’s demonstration area exhibited emulated instances of “Indiana Jones and the Great Circle” and “Pragmata,” running effortlessly on RTX Spark. This accomplishment was made possible with assistance from Nvidia’s tech marketing team, emphasizing Nvidia’s commitment to enriching the gaming experience on Arm-powered devices.

Developers collaborating with Nvidia can anticipate support for both emulated games and native versions, ensuring a smooth experience universally. Nvidia’s partnership with Microsoft further highlights the commitment to making gaming a fundamental aspect of RTX Spark’s features. Microsoft’s investment alongside Nvidia confirms that RTX Spark provides the anticipated performance and visual fidelity associated with RTX graphics cards.

The substantial work done to embed gaming into RTX Spark does not imply every title will operate without issues, but notable advancements have been achieved. Microsoft and Nvidia have concentrated on optimizing 200 of the most popular games and applications, ensuring compatibility and performance upon release.

While uncertainties linger regarding the accessibility of games such as Cyberpunk 2077 on RTX Spark, the demonstrations to date have been encouraging. RTX Spark provides a preview of the future of gaming on Arm-powered devices, where performance aligns with portability and innovation.

In summary, Nvidia’s RTX Spark stands as proof of the progressing landscape of gaming technology, delivering high-performance gaming to Arm-powered laptops and desktops. With ongoing collaboration between developers and industry leaders like Nvidia and Microsoft, the future of gaming on RTX Spark appears exceptionally promising.

# Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis – A Detailed Summary

Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, the forthcoming significant chapter in the cherished Tomb Raider series, is poised for release on February 12, 2027. This game presents an exhilarating chance for both dedicated fans and newcomers to engage with Lara Croft’s classic adventure in an innovative light.

## What is Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis?

Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis represents a complete remake of the iconic 1996 Tomb Raider title, fully reengineered with Unreal Engine 5. Crafted by Flying Wild Hog alongside Crystal Dynamics, this remake not only preserves the spirit of the original but also brings enhancements to puzzles, combat, and platforming dynamics. Players can anticipate a modern rendition rather than a straightforward one-to-one replication of the legendary game.

## Release Date

Originally planned for a 2026 debut, Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis is now confirmed for launch on February 12, 2027, creating increased excitement among the fanbase.

## Available Platforms

The game will be accessible on various platforms, including PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, and PC. This broad availability will ensure that fans can partake in Lara’s newest expedition irrespective of their gaming system.

## Previous Remakes

It is important to highlight that Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis is not the first instance of the original game being remade. In 2007, Crystal Dynamics launched Tomb Raider: Anniversary, which also served as a remake of the initial title. Furthermore, remastered editions were incorporated in Tomb Raider I-III. This latest remake, however, aims to deliver a more modern experience while still respecting the core of the original game.

## Timeline Connection to the Survivor Trilogy

Legacy of Atlantis is interlinked with the Survivor Trilogy, with attempts made to harmonize the franchise’s varying timelines. This new chapter acts as a sequel to the Trilogy, effectively repositioning the original game and its remake, Anniversary, within the broader narrative. Thus, fans can regard Tomb Raider 2 as a direct sequel to Legacy of Atlantis, despite any narrative complexities.

## New Voice of Lara Croft

In a significant shift, the character of Lara Croft has been recast. Alix Wilton Regan will assume the role, taking over from Camilla Luddington, who voiced Lara in the Survivor Trilogy. Regan will also depict Lara in the forthcoming Tomb Raider: Catalyst, further intertwining the characters and stories.

## About Tomb Raider: Catalyst

Tomb Raider: Catalyst is another imminent title in the franchise, set later in Lara Croft’s timeline, following the events of Tomb Raider: Underworld. While Catalyst and Legacy of Atlantis are connected, they illustrate different phases of Lara’s journey, highlighting her development as a character. The same actress will portray Lara in both games, ensuring continuity in her representation.

## AI-Generated Assets in Development

Notably, the creation of Legacy of Atlantis has utilized AI-generated assets. While developers have indicated that these assets have been examined and refined by human designers, this incorporation has ignited discussions regarding the impact of AI in game development. Players can look forward to some distinctive visual elements upon the game’s release in early 2027.

In conclusion, Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis is set to be an exhilarating addition to the franchise, merging nostalgia with cutting-edge gaming technology while advancing Lara Croft’s legendary saga.

Our chums at PlayStation have shared more about Kemuri, the giddy new third-person action game from a team lead by former Tango Gameworks developer and E3 2019 scene-stealer Ikumi Nakamura. In case you missed the 2023 announcement, it casts you as an athletic yokai hunter swooping and flipping around a “sprawling vertical city”. The obvious reference point is Ghostwire: Tokyo, Nakamura’s previous and more ponderous yokai-hunting project for Tango. She left the studio before that game’s completion, but she appears to have brought a lot of the same inspirations to Kemuri. Here’s a video.

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