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Control Resonant, much like the inside-out, interdimensional cryptids it has you bashing with a shapeshifting stick, probably shouldn’t exist. At least not in the risk-averse, pennypinching reality that sometimes seems to have enveloped the art of gamesmaking, and that may have installed some scepticism into my own head. The sequel to a liked yet slow-selling shooter, which replaces both the original’s player character and its instantly recognisable, bureauca-brutalist setting, while violently pirouetting into open-world RPG melee brawling. Five words that Remedy, in all their thirty years of existence, have never previously let pass their lips.

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### Nostalgic Remembrances of Barbie Video Games: A Trip Down Memory Lane

During our childhood years, many of us experienced excitement through video games that allowed us to dive into alternate realms, and for some, titles featuring the legendary Barbie character provided a delightful blend of exploration and imagination. One vivid yet elusive recollection persists from my youth—a mysterious Barbie horse game that, although not owned by me, became an invaluable fragment of my gaming journey. This game distinguished itself in my memory as it enabled players to choose and care for virtual horses, a concept that was both enchanting and comforting during my early years.

While the specifics are a bit unclear, I remember the gameplay centered on selecting from a small array of Barbie-themed horse names, nurturing these stunning animals by brushing and feeding them, and touring a straightforward course in a first-person view. Unfortunately, my younger self couldn’t decipher how to get the horse to jump, which left me stuck in repetitive care routines rather than moving forward in the game. This same demo disc had an abundance of gaming delights that characterized a crucial phase of my childhood.

Another demo on that disc, *Barbie Super Sports*, presented a different kind of challenge. I quickly grasped the mechanics of snowboarding, weaving through gates and colliding with snowmen; the rush was exhilarating, and unlike with the horse game, I derived pleasure from mastering the tasks. The simple excitement of tackling in-game challenges and the charm of dressing Barbie in various outfits provided a sense of fulfillment, even though I couldn’t buy items with the limited fake currency offered in the demo.

Looking back on those memories, I see how profoundly these games impacted me. For young kids like myself, sitting at a computer marked a step towards adult activities, free from the educational restrictions that defined earlier educational games like *Reader Rabbit*. During those developmental years, the mere experience of “playing on the computer” felt liberating. I attribute the mix of my interest in Barbie games and educational titles like *Amazon Trail* and *Carmen Sandiego* for developing the skills that would later influence my career.

Years later, the yearning for childhood gaming experiences has inspired companies such as Atari and Digital Eclipse to put together collections like *Barbie Rewind*. This compilation features 16 classic Barbie games, some dating back to 1991, capturing the enchantment and ease of the past while making it accessible for a new audience. This collection is set within a Barbie Dreamhouse hub, allowing players to customize and enhance their experience, creating a unified and fun atmosphere.

The titles included in *Barbie Rewind* are as follows:
– Barbie (1991, NES)
– Barbie Game Girl (1992, Game Boy)
– Barbie Super Model (1993, Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo)
– Barbie Vacation Adventure (Unreleased, Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo)
– Barbie Race & Ride (1999, PlayStation)
– Barbie Super Sports (1999, PlayStation)
– Barbie Ocean Discovery (1999, Game Boy Color)
– Detective Barbie: The Mystery Cruise (2000, PlayStation)
– Barbie Fashion Pack Games (2000, Game Boy Color)
– Barbie Pet Rescue (2001, Game Boy Color)
– Secret Agent Barbie: Royal Jewels Mission (2002, Game Boy Advance)
– Barbie Groovy Games (2002, Game Boy Advance)
– Barbie Gotta Have Games (2003, PlayStation)
– Barbie Horse Adventures: Blue Ribbon Race (2003, Game Boy Advance)
– The Barbie Diaries: High School Mystery (2006, Game Boy Advance)
– Barbie in the 12 Dancing Princesses (2006, Game Boy Advance)
– Barbie as the Island Princess (2007, Game Boy Advance)

Although several of these titles are hazy in my memory, the excitement of revisiting retro Barbie games sparks joy in me. Many games from the 2000s became somewhat embarrassing to admit I liked during my school years, despite the joy they could bring. Each game offers its distinct brand of entertainment, whether rescuing animals in *Barbie Pet Rescue* or solving mysteries with *Detective Barbie: The Mystery Cruise*.

Though *Barbie Rewind* may not include every cherished title from yesteryear, it embodies the spirit of those simpler days, allowing contemporary players to share those experiences with younger generations. The collection transcends being merely a set of nostalgic games; it represents a tribute to retro gaming culture and a gateway for revisiting treasured memories with Barbie.

Set to release on November 12, 2026, *Barbie Rewind* will be accessible on several platforms, including Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam. At a price of $30, it offers both gamers and enthusiasts the chance to relive the enchantment of their youth or introduce something distinctly nostalgic to a new generation.

As I crafted this article,

Digital rights management software provider Denuvo are taking a prolific anonymous game cracker to court in the USA, accusing them of violating the Digital Millennium Copyright Act by circumventing the anti-tamper technology on 26 games, including Black Myth: Wukong, Resident Evil Requiem and Doom: The Dark Ages.

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**The Delight of Fabrics and Imagination: Delving into the Realm of *Dressmaker***

From early childhood, the charm of fabric has enchanted countless individuals, sparking creativity and imaginative pursuits. For those engaged in this sphere, games like *Dressmaker* act as a nostalgic journey back to innocent youthful days spent stitching together vibrant pieces. With its distinctive fusion of creativity and gameplay, *Dressmaker* encourages players to embody the role of a designer, reigniting the pleasure of garment creation in a fanciful, stress-free setting.

**An Expedition Through Fabric and Fashion**

*Dressmaker* carries players off to a lively village where clients present an array of quirky requests. Whether it’s somber apparel suitable for a Duke’s funeral or ensembles for lavish social gatherings, each task prompts players to merge creativity with the specific requirements of their clients. Despite requests varying from serious to playful, they create a charming framework to venture into various styles, hues, and materials. As designers fulfill commissions, they also reveal new designs, substances, and embellishments, expanding their creative possibilities.

**Intricate Customization and Game Mechanics**

In a gaming arena where bespoke outfits are often restricted, *Dressmaker* excels by immersing players in the delicate intricacies of garment design. The game highlights the significance of proportions, mandating players to carefully measure their clients and adapt mannequins consequently. This hands-on method extends into pattern design, where players can pick from a variety of sleeves, skirts, collars, and more. As players advance, they can utilize colored pencils to play with fabric combinations, whimsically referencing the design journey.

Cutting fabric adds a tactical dimension, as players need to optimize their material usage while ensuring accurate pattern cutting. The game’s approachable style allows players to freely experiment, correcting mistakes effortlessly—a refreshing contrast to the pressure-filled atmosphere commonly seen in traditional crafting games.

**The Sewing Phase: Realizing Designs**

Once the fabric pieces are cut, the sewing stage commences. Players meticulously position each section on the mannequin and operate a sewing machine to animate their designs. The game promotes accuracy, yet also provides leeway, as players can utilize tools like seam rippers to fix missteps. With the capability to incorporate decorative touches such as lace, buttons, and ribbons, players can genuinely customize each piece, culminating in a satisfying and whimsical sense of achievement.

**Storyline and Artistic Charm**

Complemented by an enchanting narrative and delightful character visuals, *Dressmaker* captivates players with its fun storytelling and humor. Minor technical issues, like challenges in pinning lace, present slight frustrations but do not diminish the overall enjoyment. Furthermore, while managing in-game currency can prove difficult, the pleasure of witnessing a finished dress often compensates for these minor inconveniences.

**A Tribute to Creativity**

Ultimately, *Dressmaker* transcends being merely a game; it’s a tribute to creativity and self-expression. It encourages players to reconnect with their youthful spirit and dive into the magical universe of fashion design. With its focus on detail, imagination, and the delight of creating, *Dressmaker* offers a sincere homage to the enduring allure of fabric and the joy of crafting—an experience that resonates profoundly with players who, akin to the author, are drawn back to the sensory joys of a childhood fabric collection. Each completed commission showcases not just technical proficiency but also the whimsy and character of the designer, reinforcing that, in this environment, even the most imaginative dress designs can possess a hint of elegance.

I completed Roman Sands RE:Build late last night, and haven’t had nearly enough time to digest it, but I’m keen to help get the word out and energise whatever algorithmic chicanery might contribute to this gorgeous, ugly thing making money. So! Roman Sands RE:Build is two exquisitely grim games locked in a collapsing binary orbit. You should play it, preferably before reading the rest of this review, which is only going to spoil and dilute its squalid magic.

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**The Universal Yearning for Freedom: Delving into the Allure of Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve**

Kazutoki Kono, the brand director of *Ace Combat*, articulated a sentiment that resonates on a global scale when he remarked, “The notion of soaring freely through these expansive skies… it’s a craving that people worldwide seek to fulfill.” This desire for freedom and adventure is a fundamental element of the *Ace Combat* franchise, which has enchanted gamers across generations. With the release of *Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve* approaching on October 2, it is crucial to grasp what allows this franchise to persist and flourish.

At its core, the *Ace Combat* series fulfills its commitment to immersive gameplay, where players don’t merely interact with a display but enter a realm that draws them into the action. Truly immersive titles can provoke intense reactions—heightened heart rates, breathlessness, and even a touch of sweat from the tension. Few games reach this level of involvement, but after experiencing *Wings of Theve* firsthand, it’s evident that this edition is set to be among the immersive masterpieces.

Transitioning from *Ace Combat* beginner to soaring pilot, I found myself captivated quickly. The initial journey commenced with a cloud simulation so lifelike that one could easily envision being inside a real cockpit, sensing the anxiety of venturing into the unknown. Emerging from the clouds, I was propelled into the center of aerial warfare, where the excitement of high-speed dogfights awaited. The recognizable lock-on systems and thrilling pursuit sequences delivered the exhilaration longtime supporters anticipate from this renowned series.

As I advanced through the missions, encountering stunning visuals and fluid gameplay mechanics, it became clear that *Wings of Theve* seeks to redefine accessibility within the franchise. The early missions function as comprehensive tutorials tailored for both newcomers and seasoned players, while thorough pre-mission briefings provide tactical insights that enrich the gameplay’s complexity. The option to customize jets, armaments, and even allies empowers players, enabling them to plan strategies before engaging in combat.

The experience of flight is not simply a visual delight; it’s an all-encompassing sensation. Navigating through the skies, feeling the G-forces as my jet tilted and maneuvered, created an exhilarating physical connection to the game. The sense of achievement, such as sinking vessels and downing adversary jets, generates an adrenaline-charged thrill characteristic of being an elite aviator—one that invites joy and exhilaration.

While *Wings of Theve* continues to pay tribute to the legacy of its forebears, there are new aspirations for this installment. Developers hint at an innovative first-person perspective in hub locations, allowing players to engage with the game environment and NPCs more intimately. Additionally, the expansion of the multiplayer component signifies a shift in design philosophy aimed at accommodating the most devoted fans. The introduction of cooperative missions within large lobbies fosters opportunities for teamwork, balancing the competitive aspects of traditional PvP gameplay.

However, with ambition comes uncertainty. The choice to implement a live-service model with seasons of content and battle passes raises concerns, especially amidst debates about industry instability. Despite these apprehensions, the commitment of the *Ace Combat* team to its core community—and its aim to build upon the franchise’s resurgence—suggests a profound understanding of the motivations that fuel player engagement.

In conclusion, *Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve* epitomizes that universal longing for freedom and adventure. As players prepare to ascend into the skies, the potential for both exhilarating aerial feats and noteworthy multiplayer experiences points to a bright future for this cherished franchise. Should it fulfill its bold promises, perhaps, as Kono proposes, “The skies might indeed belong to us all.”

The European Commission proposed new rules around how under-15s access the likes of social media, AI chatbots, and online video games earlier this week. The draft legislation is called the EU Kids Act and calls for the setting up of a tiered system governing the types of accounts children under 15 can create to access such services, enforced by mandatory age verification for all users.

The documents laying out the proposal have been officially released, and based on the current wording the Commission have used to define what they class as an online game, it seems single player games that rely on online platforms like Steam for updates, distribution, or even a one-time authentication could be caught in the crossfire. That is, unless the definition is tightened up before the law is set in stone, if it indeed it makes it that far.

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# Upcoming Anime to Check Out for Fall 2026

How’s your anime queue looking? Endless, I assume? You barely got through all the summer releases, you say? Yeah—believe me, I understand. Well, I’ve got both good and bad news regarding that. The good news is that the fall 2026 anime roster isn’t nearly as overwhelming as the summer 2026 lineup. The bad news is that it’s still quite substantial, so if you’re still attempting to finish last season’s shows, don’t expect much of a break.

Interestingly, there aren’t many massively popular returning titles either. *The Apothecary Diaries* is making a comeback for its third season, the highly underrated *The Ramparts of Ice* is back for another season, and *Black Clover*’s second season is at last premiering after a lengthy five-year gap. But this isn’t a rundown of returning shows to look forward to—it’s a list of new anime, so forget about second or third seasons here. I understand we’re having trouble keeping pace right now, so the last thing we want is even more new content, but…well, you clicked on the article.

## *The Vermilion Mask (Shuiro no Kamen)*

Let’s kick things off powerfully, as I have high expectations for this one. *The Vermilion Mask* shows the potential to become extremely popular, as it echoes many of the same themes as *Jujutsu Kaisen*. First off, while the manga was published by Shōnen Gahōsha, this is actually a seinen. That means it’s more akin to *Attack on Titan* than *My Hero Academia*; darker, bloodier, and indeed aimed at older viewers. I don’t want to reveal too much since the manga is superbly crafted, but let’s just say the initial episode won’t be a lighthearted and cheerful experience.

Although the relatively young animation studio behind *The Vermilion Mask*, 100studio, isn’t a heavyweight by any means, what they’ve produced so far has been quite remarkable. I might be one of the few who actually watched *Quality Assurance in Another World*, so take my word for it; 100studio has the talent, and I believe *The Vermilion Mask* could be their breakout success.

## *Tank Chair*

Alright, this might be my biggest “hear me out” entry on the list, but it’s also the one I’m most eager about. *Tank Chair* is a manga I never anticipated would be turned into an anime. It has a peculiar premise, but that’s not why I didn’t believe it would be adapted; it’s mainly because it’s only moderately known, yet it would be extraordinarily costly to animate.

To give you context, *Tank Chair* follows a paralyzed assassin named Nagi who eliminates targets using his motorized, mecha wheelchair. It’s fantastic. This manga features some of the most thrilling fight scenes I’ve ever encountered, but there’s a catch: the anime adaptation will be 3D computer-generated.

I know, I know—3DCG is often frowned upon in the anime industry, but considering the cost to animate it traditionally, I understand the choice for *Tank Chair*. On the bright side, when it comes to 3DCG, you won’t find much better than Polygon Pictures. This is the studio behind works like *Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence*, *Love, Death & Robots*, and *Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man*, so if it has to be 3DCG, these are the folks you want on the project.

## *Firefly Wedding (Hotaru no Yomeiri)*

I haven’t read Oreco Tachibana’s historical romance manga *Firefly Wedding*, but I’m immediately intrigued after reading the synopsis. The story takes place in the 1800s and centers on Satoko, a young woman with a heart condition who wishes to marry before her time runs out. Then she gets kidnapped, which leads her to propose to her would-be killer: an assassin named Shinpei. After that, it sounds like a sort of *Bonnie and Clyde* narrative; a tale about two individuals going on a murderous spree across the nation to evade capture. Shinpei also seems to have a few issues, making things even more entertaining.

More importantly, though, the animation studio for this one is David Production; the studio behind nearly every *JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure* adaptation, *Fire Force*, and *Undead Unluck*. With that alone, count me in.

Brendy (RPS in peace) liked Keep Driving. Nic (RPS in peace) liked Keep Driving. I (RPS still alive) liked Keep Driving. Julian (RPS currently boss) liked Keep Driving. You, reader, should play road trip RPG Keep Driving if you haven’t already. A good excuse to do so is the fact that it’s getting official mod support via the Steam Workshop on September 28th.

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# The Dialogue Overload in *Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave*

In the arena of tactical RPGs, few series are as esteemed as *Fire Emblem*, featuring its complex narratives and detailed character arcs. Nevertheless, with the launch of *Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave*, some gamers have encountered an unforeseen problem—an abundance of dialogue that detracts from the gaming experience.

After spending around ten hours in *Fortune’s Weave*, players frequently feel as though only a minimal portion of that time has been dedicated to actual gameplay mechanics, particularly the game’s core element—fortune weaving. Despite the enthralling storyline and charming protagonists, the lengthy dialogue can seem burdensome, giving the impression that the narrative is overwhelmed by its own verbosity.

## Protagonists and Plot Engagement

Players have shown a distinct affection for the characters crafted within the game. The stories, although engaging, may become tiresome due to the repetitive nature of conversations that do not significantly move the plot forward. Fans value the emotional richness and growth of the characters, which are crucial for player attachment. However, when dialogue recycles themes and concepts, it can lead to irritation, as players feel weighed down by redundant exchanges.

Feedback from gaming critics, such as Jeff Grubb from *Giant Bomb*, highlights this view with instances illustrating how discussions frequently restate points earlier conveyed. This not only challenges players’ patience but can also disrupt the game’s pacing.

## The Unwanted Tutorials

Beyond narrative excess, *Fortune’s Weave* has faced backlash for its surplus of tutorial panels. While tutorials are vital for assisting players in understanding intricate mechanics, the prevalence of these interruptions can greatly hinder the gameplay experience. When a tutorial points out that spots on a map are simply known as “locations,” players might question the need for such explicit guidance, leaving them feeling insulted by the game’s assumption of their comprehension.

The call for concise and effective communication resonates throughout the gaming community. Many contend that improved editing could sharpen the narrative, enhancing the gameplay experience by eliminating unnecessary padding. By doing this, players could enjoy a more seamless transition between storytelling and action, which is essential for maintaining interest in a tactical RPG.

## Conclusion

Though *Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave* promises much with its vibrant storytelling and lovable characters, its inclination towards excessive dialogue and tutorial overload can diminish what could be a more immersive gaming experience. Players remain optimistic that upcoming patches or sequels may tackle these issues, fostering a more dynamic interplay between narrative and action. For the time being, the delight of traversing this narrative journey is tempered by instances of annoyance, leaving players yearning for a balance that values their time as much as the game’s rich narrative.