Stand down, great lawyer-machines of the courtly plains. Sony and Tencent’s legal scuffle over alleged Horizon “clone” Light of Motiram has ended with a “confidential settlement”. As part of that arrow-flinging cessation, Tencent appear to have packed Light of Motiram away and pulled it from PC stores.
**Marathon: A Fresh Chapter for Bungie Amid Artistic Shift**
Bungie’s forthcoming multiplayer shooter, *Marathon*, has sparked considerable excitement not just for its gameplay but also for its impressive visual display, claimed to be potentially the most visually captivating game the studio has ever produced. However, the recent exit of Joseph Cross, the title’s art director, prompts inquiries regarding the future artistic path of the endeavor as it braces for its March 2026 debut.
Joseph Cross, an industry veteran, has been crucial in defining the visual style of *Marathon* since rejoining Bungie in 2020 after a successful stint as a lead concept artist during the *Destiny* phase. His decision to depart the studio was recently verified, following updates to his LinkedIn profile that suggested a conclusion to his role at Bungie in 2025. Cross’s departure will have an impact as he was pivotal in crafting the art style that has excited fans, especially after the game’s announcement trailer.
Cross conveyed a sense of accomplishment in what the *Marathon* team has achieved over the past six years, recognizing the teamwork of numerous talented artists. His dedication to the project was clear in his recent posts on social media, where he provided insights on the game’s progress, particularly after feedback from an alpha test led to major modifications.
One of the significant changes influenced by this feedback is the inclusion of proximity chat, a feature that has also become a defining aspect of other successful games like *Arc Raiders*. Initially scheduled for release in September, *Marathon* now has a new launch timeframe early next year; this postponement mirrors the developers’ responsiveness to community insights and their commitment to enhancing the gaming experience.
Moreover, the game recently encountered scrutiny over claims that certain visual elements had been appropriated from outside sources. This matter has since been settled, with Cross affirming his satisfaction with the outcomes of discussions between Bungie and the concerned parties.
As Bungie readies for *Marathon*’s launch with an adjusted vision, the studio’s dedication to providing a refined and engaging player experience remains unwavering. While Cross’s departure marks a shift for the project, the foundation established during his time and the collaborative ethos of the team will persist in shaping the game’s character as it approaches its launch. As players look forward to the debut, excitement builds not only for gameplay advancements but also for the dynamic artistic landscape that *Marathon* is set to unveil.
What music do you expect from a 4X game? As regards historical 4X games, I predict a mixture of triumphal philharmonics and noodly period skits, as though wandering between the main floor and the giftshop in some museum of empire. If it’s a fantasy game, I think of choirs blaring wordlessly or singing doggerel Latin or Welsh. If it’s a sci-fi game, I think of choirs and synth.
I haven’t heard any choirs so far in Hard Void, though I may have encountered some synth. As regards the trailer and demo, it deals exclusively in heart-battering techno. It sounds like 3am in a club I wouldn’t have been old enough to get into, when this kind of stuff was in vogue. I can picture the bouncer glaring at me. Gosh, the bouncer sure has funny-shaped pupils. Mates, I fear the bouncer may be Lovecraftian.
### Fortnite’s Crossover: A Contentious Partnership with the Wizarding World
Epic Games’ *Fortnite*, recognized for its numerous crossover events, is poised to unveil *Harry Potter* themed items, sparking a nuanced conversation regarding the franchise and its author, J.K. Rowling. This possible partnership underscores the convergence of gaming culture and societal issues, particularly in relation to trans rights.
#### The Crossover Announcement
As *Fortnite* maintains its reign in the gaming realm, speculation about its association with the *Harry Potter* universe began to emerge on social media platforms. This excitement heightened when a source, identified as Fortnite Underground, disclosed information about the forthcoming skins. However, the motive behind the revelation was not solely to inform; the leaker sought to “spoil” the surprise as a form of protest against Rowling’s anti-trans views.
#### Criticism of J.K. Rowling
In recent times, Rowling has encountered considerable backlash for her remarks about transgender individuals, creating a divide among fans of her literature. The controversy surrounding Rowling has complicated engagement with *Harry Potter* content for many, as they must contend with the implications of her beliefs. Regardless, *Hogwarts Legacy*, the latest game set in the *Harry Potter* world, has achieved remarkable success, exceeding 40 million sales since launch.
#### Community Reactions
The revelation of *Fortnite*’s *Harry Potter* offerings has divided fans. Some embrace the nostalgia tied to beloved childhood memories, while others feel torn about endorsing a franchise they perceive as perpetuating damaging rhetoric. Fortnite Underground conveyed this internal conflict, voicing concern that participating in the crossover might unwittingly affirm Rowling’s views.
In a comprehensive statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the leaker noted, “Most people won’t care… These Outfits will probably sell pretty well.” Nonetheless, they conveyed a desire for heightened awareness of the surrounding issues to foster significant conversations within the gaming community.
#### The Bigger Picture
The responses to the leak underscore wider concerns in fandom and consumer culture, particularly the duty of creators and corporations to recognize and respond to the social contexts related to their products. While some community members champion a boycott of the collaboration, others openly express their plan to support it, viewing their purchase as a counter-protest against perceived efforts to silence Rowling.
The conversations surrounding this crossover illustrate the complexities of enjoying content while remaining aware of the personal beliefs of its creators. As gaming communities face these dilemmas, *Fortnite*’s partnership with *Harry Potter* acts as a catalyst for discussions about inclusion, advocacy for marginalized groups, and the impact of creators on their intellectual properties.
#### Conclusion
As *Fortnite* gears up to launch its *Harry Potter* skins, players and fans must navigate their own perspectives on Rowling and her influence on the franchise. With passionate views on both sides of the debate, the community will persist in discussing the significance of this crossover and its ramifications within the broader framework of social activism and gaming culture. Ultimately, this partnership transcends mere cosmetics; it embodies the ongoing conversation about morality in entertainment and the consumption of media in a socially aware society.
Santa Ragione have announced that they’ve repaid all the money they borrowed to develop their Surrealist horror game Horses, despite being denied release on Steam and the Epic Games Store. It’s a better outcome than expected, given Steam’s centrality to PC gaming, and a strong demonstration of support for art that is prepared to disregard taboos and investigate something profoundly ugly. It’s also, however, not enough to keep Santa Ragione operational.
As warned when they broke their silence about the Steam ban last month, the developers are suspending operations and looking for other work. It’s possible they’ll get the band back together down the road, but this “will not be easy”.
**Mark Ffrench: Creator of Fill-a-Pix Logic Puzzles on Steam**
Mark Ffrench has made a significant mark on Steam by regularly launching complex fill-a-pix logic puzzle games that combine scale with intricacy. Prominent releases from 2024 feature *Proverbs*, a vast puzzle inspired by Pieter Bruegel the Elder’s artwork *Netherlandish Proverbs*, and *2024: Mosaic Retrospective*, showcasing intertwined images that represent key occurrences from that year. Most recently, Ffrench debuted *Mosaic of the Strange*, the most elaborate entry yet, fusing the fill-a-pix style with a pixelated point-and-click adventure format.
### Comprehending Fill-a-Pix Logic Puzzles
Fill-a-pix puzzles, which originated from Conceptis, require players to color specific cells in a grid according to the given numerical hints, following a logic akin to *Minesweeper*. Each number signifies how many cells should be colored within the adjacent three-by-three grid. For example, a “6” indicates all six neighboring cells are colored, while a “0” lets players rule out its connected nine cells. As players dive into the puzzles, they hone their ability to identify patterns and logical ties, which enriches their overall solving journey.
### The Distinctive Method of *Mosaic of the Strange*
Ffrench elevates the fill-a-pix idea by creating massive mosaics segmented into various puzzles. By solving these puzzles, players receive insights related to the central theme of each game. In *Proverbs*, players discover the proverbs illustrated in the artwork, while *2024* offers revelations about major worldwide events. Conversely, *Mosaic of the Strange* immerses players in the realm of conspiracies as they assume the roles of FBI agents unraveling a horrific murder case.
Players guide agents Cullen and Brady, who are thrown into a case enveloped in enigmatic circumstances surrounding the murder. Rather than tackling puzzles on a singular wall, players wander through various rooms, finding items that initiate interactions and conversations between characters. This mechanic breathes life into the gameplay, rendering it more immersive than conventional puzzle games. The ultimate objective entails solving 144 puzzles and gathering documents tied to unusual phenomena such as cryptids, UFOs, or mysterious disappearances, which players can attach to their office board.
### Captivating Story and Puzzle Experience
The narrative complexities of *Mosaic of the Strange* are enhanced by interactive dialogues that emerge from the found items. This richness transforms what could be a mere puzzle-solving session into an engrossing narrative adventure, boosting player involvement. Moreover, Ffrench includes context-sensitive hints and notifications for incorrect moves, crafting a user-friendly experience that serves both beginners and experienced players.
One of the remarkable aspects of *Mosaic of the Strange* is its customizable difficulty levels. Players can tailor their puzzle experience, from an easy “paint by numbers” style to intricate challenges similar to those in *Tametsi*. The ability to modify difficulty mid-game introduces an additional layer of fun, enabling players to approach puzzles at their own rhythm.
### Conclusion
*Mark Ffrench’s* *Mosaic of the Strange* represents an inventive fusion of logic puzzles and interactive storytelling that delivers an engaging experience for players, ensuring hours of entertainment for a reasonable price of $12. As his games continue to advance in this direction, the gaming community eagerly awaits Ffrench’s next creative project.
What qualifies as an anomaly?
The post All Scary Shawarma Kiosk Anomalies – What to Look Out For appeared first on Gamezebo.
Having launched with plenty of tarmac and dirt spaghetti for your car to be violently spit from into a tree or hedge, Assetto Corsa Rally now features the usual third type of surface that’s rallied along. Supernova Games Studios have let snow and ice encrust their sim in its biggest update since it took off from the early access start line.
**The Challenges of Starfield: An Overview of Bethesda’s Newest RPG**
Since its launch on September 6, 2023, *Starfield* has encountered considerable criticism and letdown, signifying a sharp departure from the usual excitement tied to Bethesda Game Studios’ releases. Renowned for their expansive environments and complex narratives, Bethesda has built a reputation for delivering games riddled with glitches, prompting many fans to depend on mod creators for enhanced gameplay. Nonetheless, *Starfield* is now perceived as the studio’s first significant first-party misstep since 2006, a startling change considering Bethesda’s historical triumphs.
At first, *Starfield* appeared set for success, but it soon became clear that the space exploration game did not meet expectations. A year after its release, just one expansion pack, *Shattered Space*, was launched, contributing to a feeling of stagnation. Introduced with high hopes along with horror-themed content displayed at Gamescom, *Shattered Space* ultimately garnered severe criticism from players and critics alike, further sullying *Starfield*’s image as a growing letdown.
Despite the initial promise of enhancements, fans began to lose trust. Comparisons to *The Elder Scrolls Online*, which bounced back from a rocky start through significant post-launch support, did little to ease worries. Hopes for a slow rollout of new quests and improvements have not come to fruition, leaving players disillusioned.
Throughout 2025, *Starfield*’s silence has been conspicuous. There have been no fresh updates or content announcements, with only an ambiguous video teasing future expansions. Furthermore, rumors about a PS5 release, anticipated for 2026, have raised questions about how this launch would attract players already disheartened by the game.
Recent leaks indicate a reworked *Starfield 2.0* is in development, showcased to select influencers during a private event. While some participants voiced enthusiasm about the potential enhancements, cautious sentiments within the community have urged moderation in expectations, implying that updates may not approach the extensive revamp experienced with *Cyberpunk 2077*.
In stark contrast to the immense anticipation surrounding certain major titles, Bethesda’s current management of *Starfield* has been disheartening. With limited updates throughout 2025 and a general absence of communication regarding the game’s future, doubts loom larger than ever. Past successes are now even more relevant as players ponder whether Bethesda will succeed in redeeming *Starfield* with the rumored improvements, or if the franchise will slip into irrelevance.
From a technical standpoint, *Starfield* has not experienced the catastrophic launch scenario of some other games; however, its conceptual shortcomings—rooted in a lack of depth within what was intended to be a vast universe—have become evident issues. The vast world lacks the cohesive narrative threads that have made Bethesda’s games crowd favorites, and the lack of substantial content over such an extended period raises concerns about the future direction.
As 2026 draws near, *Starfield*’s path remains unpredictable. Fans hope for a reimagined experience that resonates with its original vision, but with 2025 showing no significant content updates, excitement is moderated by realism. Whether Bethesda can rejuvenate *Starfield* and satisfy its dedicated fanbase remains an open question, but the studio’s silence is profound amid dwindling player interest.
Merry, Peppermint, or Gingerbread?
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