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Upcoming Patch for Whiskerwood: Ship Construction, Naval Combat, and Island Defenses Included

Until now, Whiskerwood players have been on the receiving end of a lot of feline stick. The city builder puts you in charge of a small colony on a distant island of the cat empire. From month to month you need to grow your burgeoning town but also meet the resource demands of your colonial overlords.

After six months of living under the yolk of feline oppression in early access, Whiskerwood’s developers think it’s time we got some tools to push back against our overlords. Whiskerwood’s next patch will add full ship construction, naval battles, and ability to construct island defences, such as towers and fortresses to fight back against your masters.

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Collaboration with Tim Schafer from Double Fine on a Donut-Centric Psyop in Kiln: An Enjoyable Experience

# Tim Schafer and the Development of *Kiln*: An Exceptional Gaming Odyssey

Tim Schafer, the leader of Double Fine Productions, boasts an extensive background in game creation, recognized for developing cherished story-rich titles such as *Psychonauts*. Nevertheless, his participation in *Kiln*, a game that originated from the studio’s internal game jam, Amnesia Fortnite, was somewhat coincidental. While Schafer wasn’t at the project’s helm, he did offer ideas throughout the process. Curiously, he inadvertently provided the name for the game, remembering that he proposed the title “Kiln,” inspired by the notion of “killing it” — a moment that reemerged during the documentary coverage of the Amnesia Fortnite event.

## Game Idea and Dynamics

*Kiln* transports players to a whimsical, spirit-infused realm, where they inhabit and control pottery, partaking in competitive multiplayer fun. Teams of four vie in a lively setting to extinguish the rival team’s kiln by filling their possessed pots with water and delivering it to quench the adversary’s fiery structure. This concept sets up an absorbing clash that intertwines strategy and imagination.

Central to *Kiln*’s dynamics is the distinct customization of pots. Players can mold various pots using a developing assortment of tools, with different shapes and sizes influencing their effectiveness in gameplay. Unique pot designs have varied health pools, water capacities, and personal attack methods, demanding strategic decisions during matches. Players can set up a “top shelf” of three pots to interchange mid-game, allowing for real-time tactical modifications.

## Extensive Development Path

The creation of *Kiln* has unfolded over nine years, notably shaped by the concept’s invigorating vibe in contrast to conventional narrative-driven titles. Schafer notes that the game sparked excitement and involvement among team members, with playtesters continuing to enjoy the game even post formal testing. However, this journey was not without its obstacles. The team encountered substantial challenges in ensuring that the pottery shapes were meaningful in gameplay, with Schafer acknowledging that earlier versions often reduced players’ investment in creating distinctive shapes. The guiding principle “Shape matters” emerged as a pivotal mantra, driving the developers to innovate and elevate the significance of pot design in the game.

Players are free to experiment, crafting new pots to investigate various combinations of size, shape, and abilities. This approachable crafting system fosters ongoing engagement and creativity, with players often returning to the pottery wheel after each match.

## Community Involvement and Upcoming Enhancements

As *Kiln* progresses, community involvement remains a pivotal focus. Although the game currently revolves around its core mechanics of pot crafting and kiln extinguishing, Schafer has assured players that updates are forthcoming. New maps are set to be introduced, and the team is considering player feedback for supplementary game modes. The aim is to cultivate a richer gameplay environment, transforming *Kiln* into a constantly evolving product rather than a fixed release.

Additionally, the collaborative ethos transcends development, with players prompted to display their unique pot designs and share their gameplay strategies within the official Discord server, further nurturing a lively player community.

## A Distinct Creative Adventure

Schafer’s passion for encouraging creativity among players shines through. He fondly recalls the magic of game design that honors player artistry, akin to the spirit of *LittleBigPlanet*. As *Kiln* draws from this inspiration, it sets itself apart by allowing players’ creative expressions to emerge through the diverse pottery creations.

As players delve into the game’s mechanics, they uncover not just the pleasure of gameplay but also the boundless potential for creation within *Kiln*. From crafting pots with imaginative shapes to strategizing team dynamics, the game represents an enthusiastic fusion of playfulness and competition. Under the support of Double Fine and the committed efforts of its developers, *Kiln* continues to evolve, promising a captivating journey for gamers eager to immerse themselves in the kiln of creativity.

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Xbox Game Pass Starter Edition Now Part of Discord Nitro Subscriptions; Extra Perks Revealed

A couple of weeks prior, we shared insider information regarding a possible collaboration between Xbox Game Pass and Discord Nitro. Today, this partnership has been officially revealed…

This announcement comes directly from the Xbox blog, which notes: “Discord Nitro now offers a starter edition of Xbox Game Pass where it’s available, providing qualifying members with a fresh approach to find and enjoy excellent games.” It’s important to mention that this offer pertains only to the standard $9.99 Nitro subscription, excluding the $2.99 basic option.

“Discord has also implemented updates that enhance the ability to uncover and engage with games available through Game Pass,” the blog noted. This indicates that there’s now an effective integration enabling players to immediately try the games that are part of the Game Pass subscription if their friends are showing that activity on Discord, making it just a few clicks (and a download) away.

The complete announcement from the Discord team specifies that this version of Game Pass includes a 10-hour trial of cloud gaming and titles such as Fallout 4, Stardew Valley, DayZ, Deep Rock Galactic, Overcooked 2, Grounded, “and more”. Major Xbox titles like Gears 5, Doom Eternal, and Dishonored 2 are reportedly included as well. There’s also a commitment to add more games “periodically”, although it’s uncertain how long they will be available on the service.

Additional Discord Nitro perks for Game Pass members, regardless of subscription level, will be introduced “later this month”, featuring 250 Discord Orbs (currency utilized in Discord’s Store for various rewards) each month, extra Orbs for completing Quests, and “automatically applied discounts on Discord Shop”. Both articles suggest that this will be a continually evolving partnership, so we should anticipate more updates moving forward.

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Unlocking Instruments in Outbound: A Manual for the Axe, Pickaxe, and Additional Downloads

**Unlocking Tools and Recipes in Outbound**

In the realm of *Outbound*, the quest to unlock new tools and recipes is as thrilling as it is uncertain. Central to this endeavor are the signal towers that are dispersed throughout the game, crucial for obtaining new blueprints. Nevertheless, players frequently encounter confusion regarding the seemingly arbitrary nature of these unlocks. Some recipes come about through random number generation (RNG), whereas others appear to be tied to certain in-game events.

Here’s a guide to enhance your chances of unlocking additional tools and recipes:

### Understanding Signal Towers
– **Primary Source**: Signal towers serve as your primary means for accessing new tools and recipes. These towers will present a range of blueprints, occasionally requiring you to select one option over another.
– **Variety in Unlocks**: Although initial tower interactions feature a static set of blueprints, continued exploration brings in variability. Opting for one option could mean missing out on another, but don’t worry—overlooked recipes will show up again later.

### Tips for Unlocking New Recipes and Tools
1. **Prioritize Essential Tools**: When given a choice, focus on tools such as the Axe and Pickaxe as they are vital for advancing through biomes and collecting resources.
2. **Revisit Signal Towers**: Going back to towers can present new downloads. Reactivating towers, sometimes just by continuing to play the game, can provide previously overlooked recipes.
3. **Journal Tracking**: Make use of your in-game journal to monitor unlocked tools and pinpoint new biomes for potential unlocks.
4. **Co-op Gameplay**: Engaging in multiplayer will not impede recipe unlocks; interactions are advantageous for all players in the group.
5. **Milestone Achievements**: Reaching specific milestones, like igniting campfires or getting to new locations, may initiate new downloads.
6. **Exploring Further**: In addition to signal towers, certain blueprints can be discovered by investigating points of interest or utilizing vending machines within the game.

### Strategy and Patience
While gaining insight into the game’s mechanics can provide a helpful edge, patience is essential. Ongoing exploration and interaction with signal towers will ultimately cycle through all potential recipes and tools available to you. Embrace the challenge, venture into new territories, and relish the adventure as you gradually unlock all that *Outbound* has in store.

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Recent Insights Uncover Four Buying Choices for Steam Machines Alongside Anti-Scalper Initiatives

**Valve’s Expected Introduction of Steam Machine: Tactics Against Scalpers**

Valve, a prominent entity in the gaming sector, faced a challenging situation during the introduction of its Steam Controller. Demand soared so high that scalpers succeeded in acquiring large quantities of the device, leading to a sell-out in merely 30 minutes. In response, Valve revealed a revised strategy for upcoming restocks, with the intent to reduce scalper activities. Nevertheless, this new system accidentally disclosed information about the highly awaited Steam Machine.

### The Aftermath of the Steam Controller Launch

In the wake of the Steam Controller’s May 4 launch, Valve made considerable modifications for future product unveilings. The company established a registration queue for purchases, enforced a strict one-per-customer limit, and mandated that users possess a Steam account in “good standing” with previous purchases made before April 27, 2026. These modifications are designed to minimize the impact of resellers looking to benefit from elevated demand.

### Insights Into the Steam Machine

In the midst of these preparations, code extracted from the store page provided insights about the forthcoming Steam Machine—a compact gaming PC aimed at delivering PC-like gaming in the living room. The Steam Machine is anticipated to debut in four various configurations, with two already confirmed: a 512GB model and a 2TB variant.

### Concerns Regarding Storage Capacity

The 512GB model raises certain apprehensions among gaming fans. With modern AAA games requiring considerable storage space—some nearing 250GB—this entry-level choice might prove inadequate. Critics argue that this model may cause irritation, as players could find themselves frequently managing storage to fit new titles.

A more reasonable 2TB model might satisfy larger storage demands, but there is speculation regarding a potential mid-tier 1TB model. Such an option could find a harmonious balance between storage size and cost, making it a compelling choice for gamers looking to avoid the inconvenience of regular game deletions.

### Technical Specs

Valve’s Steam Machine is expected to ensure consistency in technical specifications across all variations. It will comprise 16GB of DDR5 RAM and 8GB of GDDR6 VRAM, fueled by a semi-custom AMD CPU and GPU. These specifications indicate that performance will remain uniform, irrespective of the selected model.

### Strategies Against Scalpers

The implementation of scalper-busting measures for the Steam Machine mirrors the regulations established for the Steam Controller. Despite worries about the equity of necessitating a prior purchase history, such limitations are considered essential to guarantee that genuine gamers can access the product.

### The Future of Valve Hardware

As Valve prepares for a crucial year in hardware, excitement mounts for the launch of the Steam Machine and additional projects, including the upcoming VR headset, the Steam Frame. While specifics concerning pricing and exact launch timelines are still limited, the introduction of rigorous purchasing protocols indicates that Valve is dedicated to improving the buying experience for its fans.

Through these preparations, Valve seeks to ensure a more seamless launch experience while catering to both new and established gamers.

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Pizza Hut Unveils ‘Drinkable Pizza’ in New Menu Launch

### The Fascinating Phenomenon of Drinkable Pizza: A Novel Offering from Pizza Hut Japan

Have you ever envisioned a pizza slice so sumptuous and creamy that it could be enjoyed as a beverage? If so, you may find Pizza Hut Japan’s latest innovation captivating: the “drinkable” pizza. Introduced on May 11, this distinct culinary invention has garnered the attention of food enthusiasts and adventurous eaters alike.

#### The Idea

The drinkable pizza showcased by Pizza Hut Japan is far from a conventional pie. It boasts a lavish layer of melted cheese and substitutes the usual pizza sauce with curry. This creative twist results in a pizza with such a fluid texture that toppings are at risk of slipping off the crust, hence the designation “drinkable.” The idea challenges the conventional perceptions of pizza, blending familiar components into an innovative presentation.

Available for a limited period until June 15, this peculiar yet captivating dish aims to stimulate the palate while making a statement about culinary creativity.

#### Pricing and Availability

Regarding pricing, Pizza Hut Japan has made this creation affordable. A personal-sized drinkable pizza comes in at ¥990, roughly $7. Meanwhile, a larger variant, intended for sharing, is priced at ¥2,230, about $15. To enhance the gooey cheese and robust curry, both sizes include fries, serving as a convenient complement for those wishing to soak up the flavorful mixture. However, the lack of a straw contributes to the oddity of this product, requiring diners to embrace the experience in a traditional way.

#### Promotion and Reception

Pizza Hut has advertised this item as a remarkable addition to its “Drinkable Pizza” series—implying that this could be just the first of many creative offerings originating from their kitchens in Japan. In their press announcement, they applaud the fusion of drinkable curry with the classic pizza format, encouraging consumers to relish a unique sensory experience that guarantees convenience without sacrificing taste.

In describing the pizza, Pizza Hut remarks, “When we consider foods so delectable you might drink them, the first thing that springs to mind is the widely cherished curry.” This enchanting narrative positions drinkable pizza as not merely a meal but as a culinary journey.

#### Final Thoughts

Pizza Hut’s drinkable pizza transcends ordinary food—it is a whimsical re-envisioning of what pizza can become. It embraces both innovation and the pleasure of dining, brimming with flavors intended not just for savoring but also for being enjoyed in an entirely fresh way. As it currently stands, this unconventional offering is poised to create waves in the pizza market, showcasing the lengths culinary innovators will reach to thrill consumers. For those in Japan, this limited-time option may be worth trying for a memorable (and drinkable) pizza experience.

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Xbox Users Get First Dibs on Lego Batman; PC Players Voice Discontent Over Unforeseen Denuvo DRM

**Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight: Early Access and Controversies Ahead of Launch**

With the release date of *Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight* on May 22nd approaching, some players have surprisingly gained early access to the game. Reports from the r/legogaming subreddit reveal that one Xbox player, after preordering the title, was able to download the complete game and start playing. They posted screenshots showing the loading screen, start menu, and the initial level, implying they experienced much of what the full game contains.

This early access situation appears associated with Walmart, as several users mentioned gaining entry to the game after acquiring a digital version via the retailer’s online store. However, it should be noted that this issue seems restricted to Xbox consoles, with reports suggesting that the game prompted users for an update at the conclusion of their session. Further confirmations indicate that access to the game has been revoked following a pre-release patch.

The excitement around *Lego Batman* is mirrored by other recent gaming episodes, particularly with *Forza Horizon 6*, which suffered a major leak on Steam before its official launch. Players were able to preload the game in anticipation of its May 15 early access for deluxe edition purchasers, only to discover that the unencrypted files later surfaced on piracy sites, impacting its sales traction.

Anticipation for *Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight* continues to grow, fueled by these initial looks at the game. However, concerns also arise due to the implementation of Denuvo DRM by publisher WB Games and developer TT Games. This contentious anti-piracy solution is known for possibly hampering game performance, leading to player discontent. Critics contend that Denuvo can irritate early adopters, who realize that the software is likely to be bypassed soon after release or removed once initial sales diminish.

As the gaming community anticipates the official launch of *Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight*, the developments surrounding its early access might influence its reception, with players split between enthusiasm for the game and irritation regarding anti-piracy tactics.