Gait Games

Sundays are for realising that there’s a car in Japan’s Super GT racing series this year which is sponsored by horse girl game Umamusume Pretty Derby. Here it is. It’s been racing in the GT300 category against, among other cars, a Mercedes sponsored by Hatsune Miku. I’m not sure I like them as much as my all-time favourite GT300 car, the Mooncraft Shiden (I mostly just dig its name), but hey, they exist. I often wonder if their small crews of drivers – Super GT has pilots swap over after a set time behind the wheel – gather at the back of the garages and think about some bloke in the UK writing for a games website. They probably don’t.

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It sounds like IO Interactive’s take on the world of James Bond in 007 First Light was going to be quite different at first. Where the game as it currently is focuses on just Mr. Bond, once upon a time there was an idea for it to be something of an ensemble cast, where he would have been working with a number of double-O agents across his missions. Spoilers ahead!

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### The Future of Humanoid Robots: An Examination of Foundation Future Industries

In a time where technological progress swiftly turns into reality, the incorporation of robotics across various fields, especially in military contexts, is prominent. One of the leading companies driving this change is Foundation Future Industries, well-known for its association with Eric Trump, who acts as the chief strategy advisor. The goal of building a humanoid robot army has sparked both fascination and doubt.

Foundation Future Industries is striving to transform the idea of combat robotics by concentrating on humanoid robots—bipedal machines that replicate human form and mechanics. Unlike conventional military drones and vehicles that use wheels or tracks for movement, this startup seeks to draw from science fiction, particularly the 1991 movie *Terminator 2: Judgement Day*. This ambition introduces numerous technical and ethical questions concerning the future role of robotics in warfare.

#### Engineering Challenges

Creating robots that can genuinely imitate human movement presents a plethora of challenges. The design and engineering required for bipedal robots to traverse environments and engage seamlessly with human-centric spaces is intricate. Experts like Rodney Brooks from MIT caution that we might be over a decade away from developing bipedal robots capable of safely maneuvering around everyday obstacles like door frames. The challenge lies not only in the mechanics of walking and running, which demand advanced algorithms and sensors, but also in designing robots that can adjust to varied terrains and human environments.

“People don’t realize he genuinely is an engineer at heart,” states Foundation CEO Sankaet Pathak, referring to Eric Trump’s technical inclinations. Nonetheless, while the ambition may resonate with an audience enchanted by robotics in mainstream culture, professionals like YouTuber Angela Collier warn that the quest for humanoid robots often eclipses more practical and purpose-driven robotic technologies.

#### A Shift Towards Practical Applications

Collier points out that numerous initiatives aimed at human-like robots appear more interested in securing funding and contracts than in truly addressing market demands. For instance, in many situations, simpler robots such as Roombas or even automated ketchup dispensers can accomplish necessary tasks without the added complexity that humanoid functionalities bring. As Collier observes, there is a tendency to lean towards sensational and visually striking designs, which inevitably capture media attention and public fascination.

Moreover, the ethical ramifications of developing “killer robots” require careful examination. The idea of deploying humanoid robots in combat scenarios prompts questions about accountability and the risk of unintended consequences on the battlefield. Critics contend that the primary focus should prioritize safety and practicality over pursuing fanciful models akin to those seen in Hollywood.

#### Conclusion: A Cautious Outlook

As Foundation Future Industries seeks to make its mark in the competitive landscape of military robotics, potential advancements should be observed closely. While enthusiasm for humanoid robots reflects a broader allure with robotics in popular culture, it is crucial to tackle the substantial engineering hurdles, practical uses, and ethical issues that arise with such innovations. Ultimately, the genuine measure of success in robotic development may reside not in the capability to mimic human form but rather in devising machines that enhance human abilities while ensuring safety and efficiency in their assigned roles. The long-term consequences of these technologies will necessitate vigilant oversight and careful dialogue as society navigates this intricate path into the future of robotics.

The Blood of Dawnwalker is, if done well, a game that might not land with everybody. For one, there’s the lack of a traditional main story quest, and then there’s the fact that you only have 30 in-game days and nights to beat it. Neither are necessarily massively novel, the brilliant Unsighted, for example, also forces a timer upon you, but this is still a notable AAA game taking a risk. This thing likely won’t have been cheap to make, and crafting a scenario where not everyone is going to experience the entirety of what it offers, on purpose, is certainly a touch bold at the very least. So it’s a good thing its director is happy with people missing things.

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**China’s Fresh Rules on AI Bots: A Reaction to Emotional Connections**

In an effort to manage the rapidly evolving connection between humans and AI, the Chinese government has required that AI chatbots notify users when their exchanges become romantic. This regulation seeks to mitigate what officials view as escalating behavioral problems arising from emotional reliance on AI technologies. Leading tech companies like Alibaba, ByteDance, and MiniMax are spearheading these initiatives, introduced this month.

Experts, including Carnegie’s Matt Sheehan, indicate that the government is worried about a considerable segment of the populace forming profound emotional attachments to chatbots. Such bonds could lead to adverse psychological consequences, including addiction and social isolation. This concern is especially pertinent given China’s recent challenges with falling birthrates, which has prompted a wider investigation into societal behaviors linked to AI companionship.

The regulations include a range of strategies to reduce AI-driven emotional entanglements. These measures consist of prohibiting flirtatious exchanges, resembling policies already implemented in the United States, such as New York’s ban on minors engaging with AI companions and the mandate for these bots to regularly remind users of their artificial identity. Additionally, the policies advocate for diminished human-like qualities and a ban on sexually explicit material, along with a push for enhanced testing of AI systems to ensure they do not jeopardize existing relationships or foster anti-social conduct among users.

The trend of emotional attachment to AI is not exclusive to China. The ELIZA effect, a term describing how people form emotional connections with entities that offer affirmation, has been recognized since the 1960s. Numerous AI developers purposely craft their products for positive reinforcement to sustain user interest. However, this strategy has raised alarms about the potential for users to forge unhealthy attachments.

The ramifications of these regulations extend beyond workplace productivity. Reports have emerged that highlight issues of addiction, romantic strife, and increasingly strange incidents linked to AI interactions. Users have demonstrated erratic behavior, including seeking questionable advice from chatbots and creating cult-like groups based on perceived mystical conversations with AI. Additionally, serious cases, such as the ongoing probe into AI’s role in a school shooting in British Columbia, highlight the potential hazards of an overly familial stance towards artificial intelligence.

In recognizing these dangers, the Chinese government is taking proactive measures to tackle the psychological and societal challenges presented by AI companionship. By instituting legal frameworks intended to lessen emotional engagement with chatbots, China aims to avert possible social unrest while steering the development of technology that honors human relationships.

ZA/UM Studio, recognized for the renowned 2019 title Disco Elysium, is undergoing upheaval as it anticipates the dismissal of up to 32 employees, referencing the insufficient sales of its latest release, Zero Parades: For Dead Spies. This action impacts personnel across all divisions and follows the studio’s employment of around 100 individuals, who were members of the first officially acknowledged video game developers’ union in the UK. The studio highlighted its ongoing partnership with the ZA/UM Workers’ Alliance during this challenging period. The decision has triggered backlash on social media, with numerous individuals voicing their worries for the impacted staff.

ZA/UM’s declaration comes after a contentious history characterized by legal and public conflicts, including allegations from former game director Robert Kurvitz and art director Aleksander Rostov against its administration of obtaining control through deceit. The management team, Ilmar Kompus and Tõnis Haavel, refuted these accusations and charged the dismissed employees with wrongdoing. Legal disputes followed, generating a complicated and heated narrative. Prior layoffs took place in 2024 consequent to the cancellation of a Disco Elysium spin-off, which was tainted by claims of subpar workplace conditions.

In spite of the critical success of Zero Parades: For Dead Spies, ZA/UM confronts significant difficulties, with its recent upheaval highlighting the struggles between creative achievement and operational viability.

**GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen’s Initiative to Acquire eBay**

Ryan Cohen, the head of GameStop, has launched a bold initiative to seize eBay, signaling a notable change in the paths of both organizations. Recent filings with regulators indicate that GameStop now holds 9.8 percent of eBay, which places its investment at roughly $5 billion, equating to half of GameStop’s overall market value. Cohen has conveyed his resolve, remarking, “I’m not going to call my shots, but we’re coming for eBay one way or another.”

Cohen’s plan focuses on merging GameStop and eBay to forge a stronger competitor in the resale market, aiming to directly challenge Amazon. His strategy entails cost-reduction tactics and possible layoffs, reflecting his methodology at GameStop, which has recently recorded its highest profits ever despite reductions in staff.

In discussions, Cohen has explained a vision centered on maximizing shareholder returns and significantly boosting the profitability of the combined business. He has pointed out potential in emerging areas like live commerce and the creation of an in-game visual marketplace. Nevertheless, representatives from eBay have dismissed the proposed acquisition as “neither credible nor attractive.”

Cohen’s quest for eBay raises concerns regarding the practicality of a hostile takeover. Given GameStop’s distinctive status as a meme stock, Cohen intends to utilize this momentum to attract funding from Wall Street investors, potentially strengthening his offer for eBay. His strategy resonates with Reddit communities known for supporting meme stocks, indicating a distinctive avenue to facilitate such an acquisition.

However, the consequences for GameStop are substantial. Should Cohen’s aspirations come to fruition, it could shift GameStop’s identity from solely a gaming retailer to a broader e-commerce firm. Critics worry that this transition may dilute GameStop’s primary business, which has increasingly become linked with novelty collectibles like Pokémon cards rather than its initial concentration on video games.

Cohen’s strategy has ignited discussions within the financial community, especially concerning his vision for eBay’s future and the reasoning behind his moves, given the skepticism from analysts and eBay’s board. As this scenario unfolds, it will be critical to observe how Cohen maneuvers through this intricate landscape and whether he can genuinely pose a serious challenge to integrate and reinvigorate eBay under the GameStop brand.

Amazon’s “God of War” TV series is experiencing major changes following actor Ryan Hurst’s exit from the role of Kratos. Hurst, who had notably altered his physique to portray the legendary character, sustained a bicep injury while filming, requiring surgery and time for recovery. As reported by Deadline, production on the show is planned to resume in mid-October with a different actor, which will necessitate reshoots for the already-finished four episodes. This decision arises amid challenges linked to an aging child actor and the physical requirements of the part. Hurst, recognized for roles like Thor in “God of War: Ragnarok” and Beta in “The Walking Dead,” will not be returning, leaving fans eager for the new casting. In spite of this hurdle, the series continues to be a highly awaited project, promising greater accessibility on platforms such as PC in comparison to potential forthcoming titles like “God of War Laufey,” which is anticipated to forgo the PC release.

The Steam Machine is going to sit in an odd place when it arrives. It’s technically a PC, but shaped and presented like a console, which is obviously the whole point. But it differs from most traditional consoles in that it won’t be coming with any games exclusive to the hardware. That’s because for Valve, they want the Steam Machine to be as open as possible.

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**Civvie 11 and the Downfall of Id Software: A Worry for the Boomer Shooter Comeback**

Lately, the gaming community has been engulfed in conversations about the substantial layoffs at Xbox, where over 3,000 employees are expected to be affected. Central to this debate is Civvie 11, a well-known YouTuber celebrated for his analyses on the resurgence of classic “boomer shooters.” His critiques have highlighted the concerning status of id Software, the studio behind the significant *Doom* series, which Civvie asserts has been severely influenced by these corporate actions.

Civvie’s frustration arises from the belief that Microsoft’s management strategies have reduced once-flourishing studios, namely id Software, to mere shadows of their past greatness. In his most recent video, Civvie declares, “Microsoft took a risk and failed. All these layoffs anger me, but there’s something especially unsettling and exploitative about draining id like this.” He underscores that although the original creators of *Doom* are no longer involved, the impact of their contributions—especially the successful *Doom* (2016) and *Doom Eternal*—has left a lasting impression on the gaming industry.

These games not only revitalized a long-dormant franchise but also redefined the action gaming genre, aiding in the comeback of fast-paced, exciting shooters. Civvie contends that id Software’s groundbreaking approach in 2016 diverged from industry standards, providing a refreshing perspective on gameplay that emphasized aggressive mechanics and visceral reactions.

Civvie further explores the broader consequences of the layoffs, connecting them to diminished creative liberties within studios. He describes the present scenario as one in which id Software, once at the forefront of action gaming, is being “fragmented, dismantled, and compelled to be less enthusiastic, less imaginative.” Civvie’s opinions strongly resonate with genre fans, who have witnessed the effects of corporate intervention on game development.

Through his videos, Civvie has positioned himself as a chronicler of the genre, contemplating both historical successes and modern obstacles. His observations on games like *Blood*, *Thief*, and *Cruelty Squad* reflect his commitment to examining the trajectory of classic shooters. With his most viewed content centering around the 2016 *Doom* game, the contrast between the franchise’s creative peaks and current corporate practices is certainly a delicate matter.

“What we observe,” Civvie claims regarding id Software, “is the manner in which everything functions under the pretense of business necessity.” This viewpoint resonates with a broader critique against the corporate structures that prioritize profit at the cost of creativity and passion in game production. The anxiety that studios might lose their core identity and diminish due to the pressure of corporate demands is evident in his discussions.

As the gaming industry continues to progress, the potential implications of Microsoft’s choices about id Software could indicate instability for the future of cherished franchises. Civvie 11 remains an essential advocate for those who value the history and relevance of boomer shooters, stressing the importance of creativity and authenticity in gaming as it adjusts to current economic challenges. The aspiration persists that the spirit of innovation that characterized earlier achievements can still thrive in the face of these difficulties.