It was an interesting Advent Calendar this year, from my perspective. My top four games – Arc Raiders, Silksong, Clair Obscur, and Hades 2 – were all highly ranked. And then none of my remaining games made the cut. I guess I should have strategically placed these games higher up for a better chance of making the cut. Bit of gaming the system, you know?

Read more

### The Condition of the Video Game Sector in 2025: Obstacles and Letdowns

The year 2025 intended to bring enhancements over the tumultuous preceding year; however, it ultimately mirrored a continuation of disturbing patterns in the video game sector. The environment has become tainted by cancellations, layoffs, the growing presence of generative AI, soaring costs, and challenges related to the distribution of physical media. Let’s examine these advancements in detail.

#### A Flood of Canceled Games

In 2025, the gaming sector confronted a significant surge in project cancellations. Prominent titles such as the eagerly awaited reboot of *Perfect Dark* were abandoned, leading to the shut down of the studios involved. Other cancellations included a *Wonder Woman* game and an EA-produced *Black Panther* project, resulting in many developers losing their jobs. A worrisome pattern surfaced as publishers increasingly focused on a limited array of lucrative franchises, leaving numerous innovative projects behind.

#### Increased Layoffs and Studio Closures

While layoffs in 2025 were milder than in 2024, the impact remained considerable, with nearly 10,000 developers losing their positions. Microsoft spearheaded the job cuts, affecting teams at Rare, Zenimax, and King, while smaller indie studios also faced workforce reductions. The shutdown of creative teams like Cloud Chamber, which was developing *BioShock 4*, showcased the volatile nature of the industry.

#### Generative AI Proliferates in the Gaming Arena

Generative AI, a topic of conversation for several years, experienced a marked surge in application within the gaming field in 2025. Executives demonstrated positivity towards AI tools, advocating for swifter game development. Nonetheless, many players were left unhappy with the consequent low-quality content arising from rushed integrations of AI technology. Major firms including Ubisoft and Krafton indicated a shift towards an “AI-first” methodology in their game development approaches, sparking worries about the creative integrity of forthcoming titles.

#### Gaming Becoming An Extremely Costly Hobby

The expense of gaming soared in 2025, with numerous notable price hikes impacting consoles and subscriptions. Nintendo set a standard by announcing an $80 price tag for a *Switch 2* launch title, with Xbox following suit, only to retract the pricing in response to backlash. As gaming hardware became increasingly unaffordable, even the second-hand market experienced inflated prices, compounding the financial burden on players.

#### Valve and Credit Card Firms Dictating Allowed Games

Censorship surfaced as a significant issue as major digital platforms like Steam and itch.io began eliminating certain NSFW games due to pressure from payment processors. This raised concerns regarding corporate overreach into artistic expression and the safeguarding of diverse gaming content.

#### The $55 Billion Saudi / EA Agreement

In a contentious move, Electronic Arts consented to a $55 billion acquisition by the Saudi government, raising worries about the possible suppression of creative freedom and the potential imposition of external narratives on game development. The ramifications of such ownership extend into the creative dynamics of franchises cherished for their varied storytelling.

#### Ongoing Obstacles in Game Launches

The highly awaited release of *Grand Theft Auto 6* encountered significant delays, compounded by accusations of union-busting practices at Rockstar Games. The management of employee grievances has sparked public discourse around labor practices, with prominent responses from political figures.

#### Conclusion

The year 2025 was characterized by an array of disappointments and difficulties within the gaming sector, indicating a need for self-reflection and substantial change as stakeholders navigate an evolving environment. With rising costs, layoffs, and the increasing influence of AI, it remains uncertain how the industry will course-correct as it transitions into 2026. The hope is for a revival of creativity and inclusivity, reinstating faith among developers and players alike.

**Dell Inspiron 15 3535 Touchscreen Laptop: A Comprehensive Review**

If you’re on the lookout for a new laptop, the Dell Inspiron 15 3535 Touchscreen Laptop emerges as an excellent option that merges portability with performance. This well-equipped notebook is tailored to fulfill the requirements of everyday users, whether for work or leisure.

**Pricing and Availability**

Presently available for $667, reduced from an original MSRP of $3,000, this laptop represents a remarkable discount (78% off). This pricing makes it a compelling choice for budget-minded consumers in search of a dependable device for routine tasks. You can buy it [here](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6582/).

**Touchscreen Functionality**

A highlight of the Dell Inspiron 15 3535 is its dynamic touchscreen, which facilitates seamless navigation across various applications and websites. This feature enhances user engagement, making activities such as document reading, movie watching, and multitasking more streamlined. With a spacious screen, users can efficiently handle multiple windows and tabs at once.

For those who favor conventional navigation, the laptop’s touchpad is highly precise and quick, providing versatility in how you engage with the device. Ports located on either side enable straightforward connectivity to external displays, USB drives, and additional peripherals, while Bluetooth functionality allows for effortless pairing with wireless gadgets like headsets and mice.

**Performance and Battery Life**

Though the Dell Inspiron 15 3535 may not rank as the most powerful laptop on the market, it offers satisfactory performance suitable for the majority of everyday tasks, including work, online meetings, and casual streaming. It’s designed to run smoothly as long as you have a reliable internet connection.

Battery life is another key advantage, providing a full day of use without the need for frequent recharging. This capability is especially useful for users who need to operate their devices throughout a standard workday without constantly searching for power outlets.

**Conclusion**

In conclusion, the Dell Inspiron 15 3535 Touchscreen Laptop offers outstanding value for anyone in need of a dependable device for a mix of work and entertainment. With its impressive touchscreen features, generous display area, and adequate performance capabilities, it proves to be a suitable option for daily use. At the current price of $667, it’s a purchase that promises to enhance your productivity and enjoyment. If you’re ready to upgrade your computing experience, this laptop may be the perfect daily companion for you.

To delve deeper into this offer, take a look [here](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6582/).

If you often engage in resource-heavy, creative endeavors that challenge your CPU’s capacity, liquid cooling can enhance your performance while elevating the visual appeal of your workspace. Now is an excellent moment to choose one, thanks to Amazon.

Currently, the Asus Prime LC 360 ARGB all-in-one CPU liquid cooler is available for only $100 at the retailer, following a fantastic $25 reduction. This price marks the lowest it’s been this year. The opportunity is accessible to both Prime and non-Prime members, but the stock is depleting quickly. We strongly suggest taking advantage of it sooner rather than later.

### Guarantees Peak Performance

This liquid cooler incorporates a uniquely crafted CPU contact area that surpasses most alternatives in this category. The larger size facilitates faster, more effective heat transfer from the CPU to the cooler. It prevents thermal throttling or performance decline, even during intense usage. Hence, you can expect consistent performance across all your activities. It’s particularly beneficial for creative, demanding workloads where you can’t afford disruptions due to overheating.

Aesthetics are equally prioritized. The customizable infinity mirror lenses showcase a reflective surface with a multi-layer design that creates a captivating illusion with ARGB lighting for a more luxurious, visually striking appearance. Installation is incredibly straightforward. The 400 mm tubing offers flexibility (and durability), enabling neater routing in larger cases. You can connect both the ARGB lighting and the fans using a single two-header cable. The built-in fan design maintains a clean and minimalist appearance while still ensuring exceptional airflow to boost your system’s overall cooling.

In terms of compatibility, the Prime LC 360 ARGB is compatible with a wide array of Intel and AMD motherboard platforms, ensuring that whether you have a mid-range processor or a more powerful one, it accommodates all. It can be added to diverse builds without requiring any adjustments, which is also advantageous during upgrades.

Typically, you’d spend about $125 to enjoy these features, but you can access them for just $100 today. This 20% discount is among the best we’ve encountered this year, so it’s wise to seize it quickly. Additionally, there are numerous other tech deals available at the retailer, making it an opportune time to stock up on accessories (keyboard, mouse, stylus pen) and to acquire high-value items such as laptops and mini PCs without paying full price.

The Pokémon Company is anticipated to reveal the forthcoming Generation X titles, provisionally named **Pokémon Wind** and **Wave**, during the franchise’s 30th anniversary event in February. Recent leaks, especially those from December 24, offer new details concerning the games’ features, landscape, combat mechanics, and characters, although the credibility of this information is still questionable.

These leaks surfaced after the significant **Teraleak** in October, with multiple sources disclosing information about the protagonists, gameplay features, and new Pokémon. A well-known leaker, referred to as Moot Monthly, has shared early visuals of the male and female protagonists, along with their novel mode of transport—a Rotom scooter. Considering the popularity of customization options in past releases, players might expect comparable features in **Wind** and **Wave**.

Another fascinating aspect from the leaks is the debut of a new professor, depicted as an elderly man with prominent eyebrows and a beard, traveling across the game’s archipelago in a vehicle. The professor’s mobile role is said to enrich interaction and storytelling across the region, which seems to be structured as a cluster of islands.

Artwork includes an early version of the map for the new Generation X region, highlighting various islands for players to explore. Initial reports indicate that these islands could incorporate procedurally generated elements, suggesting a dynamic gameplay experience where the landscape may evolve, while the overall landmass outlines might remain stable.

Moreover, the leaks propose a new battle feature under the codename **Majin**, introducing what are known as “weather moves.” This mechanism would alter a Pokémon’s appearance and obscure it with cloud-like effects. Although the details on how this will affect battles are still ambiguous, it suggests a potential change in combat dynamics.

While all this information might still be in the conceptual stage and subject to change by the launch, it offers an intriguing insight into Game Freak’s imaginative efforts. Currently, fans find enjoyment in existing content, such as the ongoing **Pokémon Legends: Z-A** expansion, while they eagerly await official announcements regarding Generation X.

### The Ultimate Holiday Game: Why Doom is the Festive Favorite

Alright, bear with me. Although Christmas is on the shelf for next year, the holiday spirit remains vibrant. Many of us find ourselves at family get-togethers, snuggling under kinfolk’s roofs, or possibly playing hosts until the year wraps up. To fill the gaps, many turn to gaming, and for some, the 2016 launch of *Doom* on the Nintendo Switch has emerged as the quintessential holiday adventure. Let’s delve into why *Doom* shines as the preferred game during this festive time.

#### Blasting Away Inner Demons

Returning home for the holidays can begin on a serene note but often escalates into stress as family dynamics unfold. *Doom* enables players to channel their frustrations in a creative and cathartic manner. Family disputes over touchy subjects or nostalgic musings that flare up old anxieties can be obliterated by the gratifying mechanics of vanquishing demons in the game. The audio elevates this experience; even on the Switch’s compact speakers, the crunch of demons meeting their demise acts as a sonic release. The heavy metal soundtrack intensifies this release, providing an auditory backdrop that scientific research suggests can actually foster relaxation.

#### Bridging the Generation Gap

First introduced in 1993, the beloved *Doom* franchise links different ages. Veteran players may have encountered the original when it first appeared, observing the development of gaming, while younger gamers can revel in the updated version and its heart-pounding action. This shared experience can ignite discussions and evoke nostalgia during family reunions. As you converse with your parents about the game, you might exclaim, “Look, Mom and Dad, this is similar to what you played back in the day!” This bond not only alleviates tension but cultivates closeness through common interests and experiences.

#### Chainsawing the Clutter

Contemporary holidays can become overwhelming with social demands and elaborate planning. It wasn’t always this complicated; in the past, the season revolved around opening gifts and savoring meals. Enter *Doom* and its legendary chainsaw—a potent metaphor for slicing through the chaos. Just as the chainsaw roars to cut through foes, players can visualize eliminating the unnecessary strains of holiday responsibilities. This symbolic release is an invitation to take a breath, smile, and refocus amid the seasonal mess.

#### Eating, but Never Becoming Full

*Doom* is like a holiday dessert spread that delivers pleasure without the downsides of excess. Every encounter is infused with thrill; whether blasting a demon or scaling platforms, the game is loaded with gratifying moments. However, unlike holiday treats that leave you feeling heavy, *Doom* offers enjoyment that is endlessly repeatable without physical consequences, positioning it as a perfect retreat during festive abundance.

#### Decking the Halls with Demon Guts

The concept of embellishing for the holiday season with the remains of defeated foes might seem grim, yet it captures the spirit of *Doom*. The mix of Christmas visuals and stylishly vicious combat creates a one-of-a-kind contrast—mutilating demons results in a shower of festive arterial patterns, curiously mimicking holiday merriment. It’s a bold reimagining of traditional festivities, showcasing the game’s fusion of intensity and humor.

#### Ringing in the New Year

If *Die Hard* is celebrated as a Christmas movie, *Doom* undoubtedly embodies the essence of New Year’s. With chaotic explosions and festivities reminiscent of a celebratory vibe, players are plunged into a realm filled with determination and fortitude. The main character, known as Doom Guy, represents the resolve we frequently aspire to in the New Year—a tireless ambition to overcome challenges, spark action, and motivate self-betterment. For many, his unwavering focus acts as an inspiring reminder to chase their resolutions earnestly.

In closing, while the holiday season may present its fair share of challenges, immersing yourself in the captivating world of *Doom* offers a thrilling escape. It provides a unique pathway for stress alleviation, generational connection, and inspiration for the New Year, distinguishing it as the ultimate holiday game. Embrace the mayhem, rediscover the enjoyment of gaming, and let *Doom* accompany you during this delightful season.

Further details on the Clair Obscur AI controversy, a fresh bug in Arc Raiders that serves as an excellent reason for in-game deaths, and the ongoing development of the French Final Fantasy 9 animated series. Welcome to a unique Christmas Eve installment of Morning Checkpoint, Kotaku’s daily summary of gaming news and culture. Why am I here at my desk typing away instead of enjoying time watching my kids play Plants vs. Zombies? It’s because of you, esteemed readers. The words penned are meaningless without the audience on the other side. From everyone here at Kotaku, we wish you joyous holidays and a relaxing winter break.

No AI presence in Clair Obscur 2

In a recent Q&A with YouTuber Sushi, Director Guillaume Broche tackled the discussion surrounding Clair Obscur and AI. He stated, “Yes, we’re mindful of what’s happening in that regard, but I can confirm everything in the game is created by humans.” He explained that while they investigated AI technologies during development, they did not suit their creative vision. “We gave it a shot and it wasn’t to our liking at all. It just seemed off.” Broche stressed that every detail, from concept art to voice performances, is the work of human hands. Despite losing Indie Game Awards due to early AI-generated material, Broche reassured that future endeavors will also be focused on human creativity.

Players of Arc Raiders face issues with malfunctioning guns

It seems there’s a bug in ARC Raiders preventing players from drawing their weapons

Both Ninja and Nadeshot experienced this issue pic.twitter.com/I5OHM5yUHr

— Jake Lucky (@JakeSucky) December 23, 2025

A recent video showed popular streamer Richard Blevins, known as ‘Ninja’, expressing his annoyance about being unable to access his weapon in Arc Raiders. Other gamers are reporting similar problems, suggesting a potentially widespread glitch impacting gameplay. As players enter battles, the absence of operational firearms is becoming a significant hindrance.

This could be the most excruciating method to try and enjoy Silksong

PC Gamer highlights that YouTube user Bloblumordthe3rd is attempting to complete Hollow Knight: Silksong using solely character taunts for offense. Although Hornet’s taunt inflicts minimal damage, this unconventional challenge is gaining popularity for its comedic difficulty, reminiscent of the tale of Sisyphus.

A major voice is opposing Evo concerning the Saudi agreement

Fighting game commentator Stephen “Sajam” Lyon has declared his intention to boycott Evo 2026 following the event’s recent acquisition by Saudi entities. In his commentary, he voiced worries about corporate ownership of gaming events, underlining the unsettling consequences of leveraging esports for tourism and political purposes.

A Final Fantasy 9 remake is currently absent, but an animated series is still underway

As reported by French magazine Écran Total, the animated series based on Final Fantasy 9 is still in production despite setbacks with a rumored remake. Crafted by Euro Visual, the series is aimed at younger viewers with 13 episodes, each roughly 22 minutes in length, ensuring a link to the cherished RPG franchise.

ICYMI:

Check this out:

### Affordable Entertainment Enhancements

If you’re aiming to upgrade your home entertainment setup, check out the 40-inch 2-Series Amazon Fire TV, now priced at only $170 on Amazon—reduced from its standard price of $250, which reflects a 32% savings. Orders made now should arrive in time for New Year’s, enabling you to usher in 2026 with a new screen for all your streaming requirements.

#### Engaging Visuals

The 40-inch display achieves a perfect equilibrium, delivering an engaging viewing experience without overwhelming smaller areas. With HD 1080p resolution and compatibility with HDR 10 and HLG, this TV brings your beloved content to life. Although it doesn’t compete with 4K models in terms of realism, it still provides decent quality for casual watching. Anticipate commendable color fidelity and clear details, especially in bright scenes.

The Fire TV integration guarantees an endless supply of content. Enjoy immediate access to live television, video games, music, and a vast collection of over 1.8 million films and TV shows from popular services such as Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, and Apple TV. If you’re hoping to cut back on subscription costs, you can explore free content through apps like YouTube, Tubi, and Pluto TV.

For sound, the TV features Dolby Digital Audio, ensuring audio quality that complements its visual prowess. Furthermore, the Bluetooth headphone capability enables you to pair your audio devices for a more personal listening experience.

#### Intelligent Features

The 40-inch Fire TV comes outfitted with the newest Alexa functionalities and smart home features. The bundled Fire TV Alexa Voice Remote facilitates hands-free operation—just use voice commands to locate content, check statistics, or control other smart home gadgets. You can easily request Alexa to play programs, check the forecast, or show feeds from your smart doorbell without getting up.

For gamers, this TV grants access to a broad variety of titles via the Appstore, Amazon Luna, and Twitch. With such an extensive array of features offered at a discounted price, now is an excellent time to upgrade your entertainment configuration.

If the 40-inch variant appears too large for your needs, the 32-inch option is also on sale, available for $110 down from $150.

Be sure to act quickly; offers like this won’t be available for long. Elevate your viewing experience today!

## The Mysterious Allure of *Strange Jigsaws*: An Underrated Treasure for Winter Gaming

Launched in August, *Strange Jigsaws* made its entrance into the gaming scene with nearly unmatched praise, achieving an incredible “Overwhelmingly Positive” rating on Steam, where a staggering 99 percent of player feedback is supportive. However, in spite of its achievement and the cherished memories of its predecessor, *20 Small Mazes*, the game has somehow gone unnoticed, failing to receive significant published reviews or acknowledgment in year-end game compilations.

### Expanding on a Heritage

2024’s *20 Small Mazes*, developed by indie creator FLEB, laid the groundwork for *Strange Jigsaws* with its seemingly straightforward yet intellectually engaging design. While it consisted of only 20 mazes, each was intricately crafted to provide not just a route but a distinctive puzzle experience, filled with imaginative concepts. The success of this free game likely cleared the path for *Strange Jigsaws*, which presents players with a much larger adventure comprising 50 jigsaw puzzles that elevate traditional gameplay.

### A Diverse Puzzle Journey

At a cursory glance, *Strange Jigsaws* maintains the playful aesthetic of its spiritual successor. However, it quickly evolves into a maze of intricacy that continuously tests players’ expectations. Each jigsaw puzzle within the game features a creative twist or unconventional method of resolution, immersing players in a profoundly interactive experience. The main menu, fascinatingly, serves as an extension of its puzzles, merging elements that challenge standard physics with clever gameplay mechanics.

### The Fascination of Creation

FLEB has woven a narrative dimension into *Strange Jigsaws* that enhances the gaming experience. Players may find themselves involved in a complex story regarding the formation of a lifeform or deciphering puzzles that challenge conventional historical sequences. The game includes ingeniously crafted scenarios such as puzzles from the future or those placed against unusual settings (including one “ablaze”). Particularly noteworthy is the introduction of the “infinite zoom” mechanic, recognized as one of the most groundbreaking gaming experiences this year.

### An Invitation to Play

Despite the game’s exceptional qualities, it is baffling that *Strange Jigsaws* has not garnered the critical focus it merits. Nevertheless, it is still an opportune moment for gamers to experience this distinctive creation. Priced at just $4 on Steam, it offers remarkable value. Players are urged to buy *Strange Jigsaws* for themselves and consider gifting a copy to a friend, ensuring that more individuals can partake in this enchanting puzzle quest.

In summary, *Strange Jigsaws* is a charming and creative title that defies the traditional boundaries of gaming puzzles. Its highly captivating design, along with the narrative richness and playful mechanics, makes it an outstanding selection for winter holiday gaming. Don’t overlook the chance to uncover this hidden treasure.

But first, time to enjoy your lovely joke!

Read more