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Touhou Project is Schrödinger’s shoot-em-up series: simultaneously a decades-running, 20-game strong (not counting spinoffs) multimedia juggernaut spawning one of the most active fan communities of the post-Trekkie age, and also some weeb curiosity that no-one I’ve ever spoken to has ever heard of. Either way, it’s been around for yonks, and has just seen the launch of its first official remake, of foundational 2002 entry Touhou Koumakyou: The Embodiment of Scarlet Devil.

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### Nintendo Direct Showcases Highlights

Nintendo has recently conducted two Direct showcases, one commemorating the 40th anniversary of *The Legend of Zelda* and the other highlighting new titles for the Switch 2. Below is a recap of the key announcements from both events.

#### *Monster Hunter Wilds*
*Monster Hunter Wilds* will be available on December 4 for Switch 2, including all previous updates and local co-op support. This game will be followed by the *Ascendance* expansion scheduled for next year.

#### *Final Fantasy VII Revelation*
The eagerly awaited *Final Fantasy VII Revelation* is set to launch on Switch 2 on April 8, accompanied by an unexpected release of *Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion*, which is available now.

#### *Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity – Definitive Edition*
The action-packed title *Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity* is heading to Switch 2 on February 25, now featuring all expansion content and a newly added Calamity Mode difficulty setting. Players who own the game on Switch 1 will benefit from a discount for the upgrade.

#### *Meccha Chameleon*
The widely enjoyed hide-and-seek game, *Meccha Chameleon*, is launching on Switch 2 today.

#### *Pokémon Pokopia*
A sneak peek of *Pokopia*’s fashion-themed expansion unveiled new customization features for players and their Pokémon. Additional Pokémon such as Snubbel and Braixen will be introduced later this year.

#### *Star Fox*
A complimentary update for *Star Fox* introduces a local split-screen battle mode and new stages, set to debut on September 29. *Star Fox Adventures* will also be added to the GameCube Classics lineup today.

### Quick Highlights
Brief highlights include:
– A remaster of *The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt* with mouse support is scheduled for September 29.
– *Kingdom Come II Deliverance Royal Edition* and *Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave* will be released on September 17.
– A trailer for the in-development *Yokai Watch 2: Haunted Domain*.

#### *Pikmin 4*
*Pikmin 4* will feature voice commands via Switch 2’s microphone and unveil a new Dandori Academy mode. This version is set to be released on November 12.

#### *Onyx: The Dark Grip*
The horror-adventure title *Onyx: The Dark Grip* is coming to Switch 2 next year, making use of touch controls that will affect the player’s experiences.

#### *Xenoblade Chronicles 3*
This game is scheduled to launch on Switch 2 on December 3, introducing a new hero named Shimmer.

#### *Stage Fright*
From the developers of *Overcooked*, this charming puzzle game is anticipated on both Switch versions next year.

#### *Disney Dreamlight Valley*
An expansion named *The Keepsake Sea* for this town-building game is expected in November.

#### *Ondeh Ondeh Kaya’s Tasty Tale*
This world-building title will feature rhythmic platforming mechanics.

#### *Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight*
This expansive superhero adventure is finally launching on Switch 2 September 18.

#### *Kirby Air Riders*
*Kirby Air Riders* will receive a complimentary update to complete its amiibo collection and modify in-game regions.

#### *Cairn*
The demanding climbing title *Cairn* is slated for early 2027, with a playable demo now available.

#### *Resident Evil Remakes*
Remakes of *Resident Evil 2*, *3*, and *4* will release on October 16, including all downloadable content.

#### *Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis*
The remake of the original *Tomb Raider* is planned for February 12 on Switch 2.

#### *Nintendo Switch Sports Resort*
This upcoming installment in the Sports series is coming on October 22, featuring sports controlled by motion.

#### *Metroid Ravenous*
Scheduled for January 28, this new 2D action platformer featuring Samus will introduce amiibos at launch.

#### *Mario Kart World*
A free update for *Mario Kart World* incorporates 10 new courses inspired by *Super Mario Kart*, available later today.

#### *Mega Man Dual Override*
The game will highlight new Proto Man gameplay and is set for release in the spring with amiibo available.

#### *Eternal Anima*
This retro-style RPG will feature a mechanic for predicting enemy attacks and is arriving on March 4.

#### *Danganronpa 2×2*
The remake will introduce a new “Slayhem” route combined with fresh mechanics and characters, launching on January 14.

### Additional Updates
Other significant titles include *Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves* debuting on October 22, *Metal Slug Ultimate Collection* coming next year, and remakes of *Persona 4* and *Persona.

Look, I know it’s way to early to be talking about sequels to The Blood of Dawnwalker, given Rebel Wolves’ vampire RPG hasn’t even been out a week as I write this. However, the game’s devs are already putting pieces in place to get on with making such a game, so with help from strong spoiler tags, I’m doing it.

THIS IS A VERY STRONG SPOILER WARNING FOR THE BLOOD OF DAWNWALKER, YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.

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**Level-5 Brings Back the Yo-Kai Watch Franchise with New Game**

In a thrilling announcement during the latest Nintendo Direct, Level-5 has disclosed its return to one of its cherished franchises, **Yo-Kai Watch**, following a significant hiatus of seven years in the U.S. gaming scene. The eagerly awaited new chapter, named **Yo-Kai Watch 2: Haunted Domain**, is officially under development and is slated for release on the forthcoming **Nintendo Switch 2**.

While particular information about the game is limited, fans can look forward to reuniting with the well-known protagonist from earlier titles in the series. This continuation demonstrates Level-5’s dedication to rejuvenating the **Yo-Kai Watch** universe, a franchise that has endeared itself to countless fans with its distinctive combination of adventure, strategy, and delightful characters.

The **Yo-Kai Watch** series initially launched in 2013 and swiftly became a mainstay in the gaming world, particularly among younger groups. The franchise revolves around players forming friendships with various Yo-Kai—spirits influenced by Japanese folklore—that can aid them in battles and a variety of quests. Its engaging gameplay and vivid art style have firmly established its position in the landscape of Japanese RPGs.

As excitement mounts for **Yo-Kai Watch 2: Haunted Domain**, fans are keen for additional details concerning gameplay features, storyline developments, and new Yo-Kai that will be introduced to enhance the franchise’s already intricate lore. The announcement of a new title also indicates that Level-5 is ready to reestablish its presence in the U.S. market, reintroducing familiar characters and experiences that long-time fans have yearned for.

Stay tuned for updates as Level-5 continues to reveal more about **Yo-Kai Watch 2: Haunted Domain**, and prepare for a nostalgic return to the enchanting realm of Yo-Kai as it gears up for its grand revival.

**Developing…**

It’s probably poor form to do another “what I said in a group chat” (this time, to culture critic Rowan Kaiser. Hermits can namedrop too, shut up) intro, but “Oh i already liked menace, that’s why I hate it” feels too useful to spurn.

I don’t really hate Menace. You’ve been there, though: a game you enjoy, perhaps even begin to love, but it keeps aggravating you, forcing you to vent before you can play it more. This one is carried through that by a core of turn-based shooting, with some interesting simulation and character levelling that often work well together. And some of its annoyances are natural update fodder during its early access period, as perhaps are some areas that currently feel lacking. But man, does it need that carrying sometimes.

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**Blizzard Entertainment Employees Approve Initial Union Agreement with Microsoft**

In a noteworthy advancement for labor relations within the gaming sector, close to 1,900 staff members at Blizzard Entertainment have opted to approve their first union agreement with Microsoft, after more than two years of rigorous negotiations. This agreement offers vital protections and creates a foundation for future collective bargaining, signifying a crucial milestone in the realm of labor rights in game development.

**Merging of Bargaining Units**

The recently approved contract merges several smaller unions within Blizzard into three larger bargaining units. This deliberate strategy seeks to bolster collective bargaining strength and simplify negotiations between the unions and Microsoft. Specifically, the contract identifies the following groups:

1. The first unit includes all employees engaged in the development of *World of Warcraft*, Blizzard Quality Assurance (QA), and *Hearthstone*.
2. The second group comprises staff from the platform/technology divisions, customer service, localization, as well as the story and franchise development teams.
3. The third unit represents workers from the *Diablo* and *Overwatch* franchises.

This agreement will regulate these groups for a period of four to five years, varying based on the specific bargaining unit engaged.

**Notable Provisions of the Agreement**

The contract is notable not just for its consolidation but also for its stipulations regarding various urgent industry topics. One of the standout aspects is its stance on artificial intelligence (AI) in game development. The contract recognizes the potential benefits of AI tools, stressing the importance of human supervision in AI-assisted processes. Importantly, it requires that any use of AI technology that could significantly impact the work of union employees must undergo prior negotiations to examine its potential effects.

Aside from its AI stipulations, the agreement tackles other critical workplace matters:

– **Recognition:** It ensures that all current and former employees will be properly credited by name in all titles they contribute to, guaranteeing acknowledgment for their creative contributions.

– **Remote Employment:** The contract specifies certain roles as hybrid in-office positions while outlining processes for employees interested in applying for completely remote work options.

– **Layoff Protocols:** A detailed framework for implementing layoffs is provided, which includes a 60-day notice period or compensation in place of notice, a severance package of one week for every six months of service, and 14 months of recall rights in case layoffs take place.

Moreover, the agreement includes a successorship clause, ensuring that if Blizzard were to be taken over by another organization, the terms of this contract would remain applicable.

**Context within the Gaming Sector**

This agreement represents the fourth successful contract negotiated between Microsoft and one of its gaming studios. Prior contracts were established with ZeniMax QA testers and Raven Software, and Blizzard QA workers who previously held contracts will now be included in this unified agreement.

The ratification of this contract emphasizes the significance of union representation in the gaming sector and illustrates a trend toward enhanced labor organization within technology and entertainment industries. As game development progresses, this agreement symbolizes an essential step toward fair labor practices and offers a solid framework for addressing the ongoing challenges encountered by employees in the sector.

Stupid Never Dies is a vibrant feast for the eyes, ears and hands, and I don’t even mean all the biting our punk boy Davy gets up to

It’s hard to know where to start when talking about Stupid Never Dies. An action RPG built on style, excess and punk ideology. I mean, within the first minutes of my demo starting, I am flushing undead protagonist Davy down a toilet in an abandoned shopping mall to arrive in a hellish arena.

There is a lotgoing on.

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Free cosmetics for your avatar.

The post Momo City Codes [September ALPHA Rewards] appeared first on Gamezebo.

### The Anticipation Surrounding the *Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time* Remake

The official Japanese site for the eagerly awaited remake of *The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time* has revealed thrilling new content that wasn’t shared during the latest Nintendo Direct event. Fans can now delve into a collection of mesmerizing character artwork and gameplay footage. Among the highlighted elements is the inaugural preview of a remix of the cherished Gerudo Valley theme, lasting about 15 seconds and expected to enchant fans with its innovative interpretation of a classic melody.

The website is available [here](https://www.nintendo.com/jp/games/switch2/aa9ja/hyrule/index.html). Users are encouraged to scroll past clips showcasing the Kokiri Forest, Gorons, and Zoras to reach the Gerudo Town portion, where the audio clip can be accessed. For nostalgic purposes, the original version of the Gerudo Valley theme can also be referenced.

Gerudo Valley is recognized as one of the most unforgettable tracks in the original *Ocarina of Time* soundtrack. This theme plays amidst the vast outdoor regions surrounding Gerudo Fortress, home to the all-female Gerudo tribe, celebrated for their distinct culture and fierce warrior traits. Players, stepping into the shoes of hero Link, must traverse this area to save captured carpenters and interact with the Gerudo to acquire a special token essential for accessing the next major dungeon, the Desert Colossus—all accompanied by the iconic guitar riff of the Gerudo Valley theme.

Despite its acclaim, the Gerudo Valley theme has regrettably been underused in later *Zelda* games. It seldom appears outside of *Ocarina of Time*, mainly due to the shift in the Gerudo’s significance in subsequent titles. While Gerudos appear in passing in *Twilight Princess*, there is no direct equivalent to Gerudo Valley in that game, prompting speculation about its whereabouts. Likewise, in *Breath of the Wild* and *Tears of the Kingdom*, Gerudo Town features an entirely different musical arrangement, although both the Rito and Zora tribes have received wonderful remixes of their respective themes.

Nevertheless, there are remarkable adaptations of the Gerudo Valley theme, including a fantastic version in *Super Smash Bros.* and an engaging rendition from *Crypt of the Necrodancer: Cadence of Hyrule*. Despite these adaptations, the original largely remains exclusive to *Ocarina of Time*, showcasing its unique allure.

As anticipation grows for the upcoming remake, many fans express appreciation for finally witnessing the Gerudo Valley theme gain the recognition it merits. However, a bittersweet note lingers as the clip on the official site cuts off just before the theme reaches its most thrilling segment. Eager players may find themselves looking forward to the game’s launch, prepared to lose themselves in the enchanting vibes of Gerudo Town while enjoying the newly arranged soundtrack on loop.

It’s a lovely morning in the village, and you are a horrible house. Wait, let’s start that again. As Gregor Samsa awoke one morning from uneasy dreams he found himself transformed into a horrible house. Wait, let’s start that again: “You wake up as a House. Your limbs stretch through endless rooms filled with grotesque creatures. You can never see outside of yourself, never feel the world that lies beyond the fleshy walls of your body. You manage your insides as best you can, but you wonder: are you a good house or just a pale afterthought of the House Before?”

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