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The mobile gaming powerhouse Scopely has strategically placed its investments in Studio AuKnow, a nascent enterprise led by the previous director of the hit mobile game, Umamusame: Pretty Derby. This announcement was made public via a press release from Scopely, highlighting the firm’s continuous dedication to investing in the Japanese market. This action follows Scopely’s significant acquisition of Niantic for $3.5 billion in 2025.

Studio AuKnow features a group of experienced mobile game developers. Under the leadership of founder Takuma Akitsu, who served as the director of the celebrated Umamusame: Pretty Derby until 2024, Studio AuKnow has recruited former developers from illustrious titles such as Pokémon Pocket, Onmyoji, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and Sonic World Adventure. The company is in the process of creating a new mobile IP and is actively seeking candidates for various roles.

Scopely is part of Savvy Games Group, a state-owned investment firm from Saudi Arabia that has persistently invested in the gaming sector. This strategic investment corresponds with Saudi Arabia’s wider initiative to leverage the rapidly growing mobile gaming industry, particularly in the MENA region. Nevertheless, Saudi Arabia’s investment pursuits, including in gaming, have faced scrutiny from humanitarian organizations due to the nation’s controversial human rights record. Detractors contend that such financial endeavors are efforts to enhance its global standing in tourism and investment.

**The Fondness of Nintendo DS RPGs and the Vanishing Bargain Bin**

In the realm of gaming, few moments can stir feelings of nostalgia as effectively as discovering a hidden treasure in a second-hand bargain bin. One such treasure is the eccentric Nintendo DS RPG *Contact*, crafted by Grasshopper Manufacture. Launched in the mid-2000s, this game takes substantial inspiration from the cherished classic *Earthbound*, merging unconventional storytelling with captivating gameplay features.

Despite its distinctive allure, *Contact* often gets eclipsed by more prevalent titles, highlighted by its humble Metacritic rating that leaves many unfamiliar with its whimsical universe. For just $5, it was a bargain for anyone fortunate enough to find it in a GameStop bargain bin—an encounter that ignited fond memories for countless players.

The act of rummaging through those disorderly bins, brimming with a variety of pre-owned games, holds a special significance for numerous gamers. Such bins were frequently chaotic, stuffed with everything from unwanted sports games to obsolete shooters, but therein lay the excitement of discovery. The pleasure of digging through these heaps could lead to a delightful surprise—rare RPGs like *Evolution Worlds*, the intriguing *Ar Tonelico*, or even various versions of the *Art Academy* series.

Contemplating the decline of physical media, many gamers convey a sense of grief as the prevalence of these bargain bins declines. The slow transition to digital consumption has resulted in a scarcity of chances to uncover inexpensive games in the wild. Although some retail stores still provide used game sections, the experience of sifting through a cluttered bin filled with forgotten titles is becoming increasingly uncommon.

As the gaming environment transforms—culminating in forecasts that physical disc games might entirely disappear by 2028—collectors and aficionados may see their cherished game hunting adventures vanish into the shadows. The days of snagging legendary titles at unmatched prices like 4 for $20 could soon be a distant recollection, leaving future generations without the joys of such fortunate discoveries.

The nostalgia surrounding the search for unique games in bargain bins has transcended eras, and the connections forged through these moments remain meaningful. As gamers look back on their favorite finds, they treasure the enduring impressions these experiences have imprinted on their gaming journeys. Whether it’s the exhilaration of uncovering an underrated *Tales* title or reliving the thrill of finding *The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers* amidst a multitude of sports games, these instances create lasting memories.

As we approach a future dominated by digital media, it’s vital to preserve the spirit of discovery. Sharing tales of past finds and reflecting on the allure of bargain bins could guarantee that these treasured experiences are never overlooked. So, whether you’ve stumbled upon a classic RPG or an obscure indie gem, let’s celebrate the delight of unearthing video game treasures and keep those memories alive for future generations.

### The Transformation of Ninjala: A Transition from PvP to PvE in Ninjala 2

**Introduction**

Ninjala, a colorful action title that debuted on the Nintendo Switch in 2020, has transformed from a basic PvP experience into a thriving multimedia franchise. With over 12 million downloads and a wealth of engaging content, including manga and an extensive 200+ episode anime, the series has captured gamers’ interest and developed an intricate universe. With the upcoming announcement of a sequel exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, we explore how Ninjala is evolving into an open-world, PvE-focused adventure dubbed Ninjala 2: The Uncharted Planet.

**The Change in Gameplay Dynamics**

During Anime Expo, attendees were introduced to Ninjala 2, illustrating a shift away from the competitive essence of its predecessor. Unlike the original Ninjala, which prioritized player-versus-player (PvP) interactions, Ninjala 2 adopts an open-world, player-versus-environment (PvE) framework. This signifies a major change in gameplay philosophy, promoting co-operative play that enables players to interact with the world and its characters at their leisure. Director Motoki Kaneda emphasized this new direction as a way to delve into the diversity of the Ninjala universe, noting that previous story modes in the original game revealed a craving for narrative richness, which will be further developed in the sequel.

**Expanding a Rich Narrative**

The storytelling foundation of Ninjala has flourished through numerous anime episodes and supplemental manga content, laying a strong base for the sequel. Kaneda stated that the pivot to PvE was motivated by a wish to offer players a deeper immersion grounded in the established lore. This new approach allows players to appreciate the various dimensions of the Ninjala universe, exploring characters and stories in a more relaxed fashion.

**Gameplay Mechanics and Features**

Even in the formative stages of gameplay showcases, Ninjala 2 retains recognizable mechanics from its predecessor. Initial previews featured a tutorial leading to a boss battle, revealing similar controls and combat styles. Players can look forward to new abilities, including gear that can freeze adversaries, thereby highlighting strategic combat. Furthermore, social elements of the game are represented in features like a photo mode, where players can capture memories complete with character customization options.

The game’s design hints at a focus on exploration and collaboration, and although the direct co-op gameplay was not fully demonstrated in early showcases, its presence is a crucial component of the game’s vision, encouraging friends to join forces and face challenges together.

**Looking Forward: Feedback and Future Outlook**

As Ninjala 2 prepares for its launch, the development team welcomes player feedback for future enhancements. While the sequel currently emphasizes co-op gameplay, the reintroduction of PvP components remains a possibility. The developers underline the necessity of community feedback in directing the game’s evolution, indicating a flexible approach to the changing desires of players.

**Conclusion**

Ninjala’s evolution from a competitive arena to a collaborative adventure marks an exciting and bold shift in gaming narratives. As fans eagerly await the arrival of Ninjala 2: The Uncharted Planet, the combination of familiar gameplay mechanics with fresh storytelling and cooperative features creates an inviting landscape for both new players and long-time series fans alike. With a growing universe and a novel gameplay structure, Ninjala is set to win over gamers once more.

# Indie250 Celebrations: 10 Intriguing Independent Games to Keep an Eye On

The Indie250 celebrations carry on this Indie-Penance Day, as Kotaku celebrates the inception of an indie gaming nation approximately 250,000 years ago. Here are ten captivating new or forthcoming independent games that might catch your attention and warrant a place on your Wishlist.

## Spellsided

**Developer:** Mass Transfer Interactive
**Release date:** TBA
[**Steam page**](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3088510/Spellsided/)

*Spellsided* unveils a unique mechanic where the die you roll also serves as the character you control. Personalize each side of the mystical die to cast various spells, melding this with traditional cube-rolling gameplay. Its voxel art style amplifies the appeal, creating a one-of-a-kind puzzle experience.

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## Janet DeMornay Is A Slumlord (and a witch)

**Developer:** Fuzzy Ghost
**Release date:** TBA
[**Steam page**](https://store.steampowered.com/app/2168480/Janet_DeMornay_Is_A_Slumlord_and_a_witch/)

Featuring a title that captures attention, *Janet DeMornay Is A Slumlord (and a witch)* explores a labyrinth of “debauched appliances.” Players take on the role of a tenant confronted with an unexpected inspection from a faded celebrity landlord. The game promises an eccentric, outrageous experience that’s difficult to overlook.

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## Ourlands

**Developer:** GrahamOfLegend
**Release date:** Out now
[**Steam page**](https://store.steampowered.com/app/2074470/Ourlands/)

*Ourlands* presents a serene twist on the city-building genre, emphasizing decoration instead of objectives or management. Players can freely construct and personalize islands, offering a relaxing experience that values creativity and tranquility.

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## Defy the Gods

**Developer:** Hectic Electron Games
**Release date:** Out now
[**Store page**](https://hecticelectron.com/products/defy-the-gods-standard-edition)

*Defy the Gods* is a tabletop RPG showcased in a beautifully designed 312-page hardback book. It unfolds a queer sword-and-sorcery tale, supplying rules and lore for an immersive romantic voyage that feels substantial and high-quality.

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## Roombattle

**Developer:** Dust Games
**Release date:** Out now
[**Steam page**](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3223000/Roombattle/)

*Roombattle* adopts a comedic angle for competitive gaming by involving robotic vacuum cleaners in chaotic matches. Ideal for both solo and multiplayer enjoyment, players compete to “pop bubbles,” delivering a whimsical, frenzied gaming experience.

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## Dance of Theseus

**Developer:** Citreat Studio
**Release date:** TBA
[**Steam page**](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3581260/Dance_of_Theseus/)

In *Dance of Theseus*, players dive into a dress-up simulation set within enchanting monster ballrooms. Design outfits and personalize your character while developing connections, highlighting distinctive gameplay that transcends conventional dress-up mechanics.

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## He Who Watches

**Developer:** Danga Games
**Release date:** TBA
[**Steam page**](https://store.steampowered.com/app/1070500/He_Who_Watches/)

This gravity-manipulating puzzle title, *He Who Watches*, evokes intellectual curiosity with its captivating mechanics. Players traverse levels by modifying gravity and solving puzzles within grand chambers, all in pursuit of a divine overseer.

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## Folk Emerging

**Developer:** Curious Dynamics
**Release date:** July 2026
[**Steam page**](https://store.steampowered.com/app/2275300/Folk_Emerging/)

Positioned in the Stone Age, *Folk Emerging* aspires to be an ambitious 4X civilization-builder enriched with beautifully illustrated cave paintings. It offers a glimpse into the dawn of human civilization, promising depth and creativity from a solo developer.

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## Blocks For Babies

**Developer:** BunkSoft Interactive
**Release date:** TBA
[**Steam page**](https://store.steampowered.com/app/2776770/Blocks_for_Babies/)

Merging the realms of 2D block-stacking and a 3D first-person shooter, *Blocks For Babies* showcases an outrageous mix of gameplay styles. It pledges a unique spin that intertwines nostalgic puzzle mechanics with fast-paced action.

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## Imprinted

**Developer:** Cobalt Lane
**Release date:** TBA
[**Steam page**](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3980340/Imprinted/)

Back in 2019, experimental game developer and actual university professor Pippin Barr released a browser game consisting of eight, very silly variations on chess – a flagrant assault on the dignity of a strategy experience whose roots go back a thousand years, which Barr justified as an effort to “allow non-players of chess to get a kick out of the game”.

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### Delving into “Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet” – Naughty Dog’s Upcoming Sci-Fi Adventure

In recent talks about forthcoming PlayStation titles, the focus has turned to Naughty Dog, a studio acclaimed for its storytelling prowess and engaging gameplay in games like “The Last of Us” and “Uncharted.” Among the eagerly awaited projects is their upcoming space-oriented game titled “Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet,” which was unveiled at The Game Awards a few years back.

#### Current Insights

Although details on “Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet” are limited, the game is set to highlight Naughty Dog’s renowned narrative approach within the context of space exploration. As the studio explores a new genre, fans are keen to witness how they will blend their well-known gameplay elements with novel sci-fi features.

The name “Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet” has ignited discussions about its memorability and significance. Detractors of the title argue that it lacks a smooth pronunciation, prompting inquiries about its brand identity in the increasingly saturated gaming landscape. The possibility of abbreviation, leading to “Intergalactic,” might create search-related confusion for those seeking information regarding the game.

#### Title Challenges in Video Game Design

Choosing a title for a video game is a nuanced endeavor that can greatly influence its reception in the market. An effective name should be memorable yet unique enough to differentiate itself in search engines and social media conversations. For example, basic titles like “Control” may be overly common, complicating information retrieval. On the flip side, excessively long names, such as “Kingdom Hearts 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue Birth By Sleep 0.2 A Fragmentary Passage,” can discourage players due to their length and complexity.

“Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet” seems to find itself in this middle ground, offering a distinctive yet somewhat unwieldy title. As the launch date nears, the game’s promotional efforts will be vital in embedding the name within gaming culture and ensuring it resonates with potential players.

#### Community Perspectives and Hopes

With the gaming community eagerly anticipating more updates from Naughty Dog, there’s noticeable excitement regarding the studio’s foray into space exploration. Given their history of character-driven storytelling and immersive worlds, many fans hold high hopes for “Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet” to present an engaging narrative while navigating expansive, unexplored realms of the universe.

In discussions among gaming fans, there is intrigue surrounding the game’s mechanics, narrative arcs, and how it will weave in themes that Naughty Dog traditionally explores, such as moral dilemmas and character growth.

### Final Thoughts

“Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet” signifies a thrilling new direction for Naughty Dog as they step into the world of space-themed gaming. Despite the light-hearted critiques regarding its title, the excitement for what lies ahead is evident. As Naughty Dog progresses with the game’s development, fans are hopeful it will fuse their cherished aspects of storytelling with groundbreaking gameplay to deliver another unforgettable experience in the gaming sphere.

Slay the Spire 2 has received a bunch of potent new cards specifically for co-operative multiplayer. They span all five of the game’s classes, from the aloof and stargazing Regent to the venomous and underhand Silent (Silent! My beloved, etc). The update in question is out now via the roguelite deckbuilder’s Steam beta branch, and comprises of a new colourless card, two new Regent cards, and three cards apiece for the other four classes. A few other cards have been reworked. All told, it’s a great time to have friends who enjoy killing steeples.

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If Feed the Pit were simply a quickfire extraction game about hunting down obscenely wealthy people and chucking them into a ravenous Sarlacc, that’d have been plenty catharsis enough for this age of actual trillionaires. It’d have been solid reaction video fodder for terminally online Marxists, a kind of Hunt: Showdown for the dirtbag left. But Feed the Pit goes further. It’s a creepy narrative experience that, after an hour with the game’s first act, reminds me a little of Mouthwashing.

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**The Horizon of PlayStation Game Discs: An Evolution in the Gaming Realm**

In a significant policy shift that has sparked fervent discussions among gaming fans, Sony has revealed intentions to discontinue physical PlayStation game discs by 2028. This move, perceived by many observers as a natural progression toward a more digitally-oriented market, has triggered considerable backlash from supporters and industry figures alike. Within merely 48 hours of the announcement, Sony’s social media proclamation achieved over 100 million views, reflecting the wide-ranging public interest and apprehension concerning the future of gaming formats.

### Reactions from Gamers and Industry Stakeholders

The elimination of physical discs has struck a chord with devoted fans of the PlayStation brand, many of whom have cherished memories tied to the ownership and exchange of physical game copies. The uproar has been extensive, with various petitions appearing on platforms such as Change.org. One petition initiated by Canadian video game retailer PNP Games has already gathered more than 35,000 signatures. The retailer’s CEO, Jade Pearce, stressed the significance of physical ownership, asserting, “A disc is a real game you own. You can lend it, trade it, resell it, gift it, collect it, or pass it down to your kids.”

Discontent has also permeated social media, where fans are expressing their grievances across all of Sony’s platforms. Notable personalities like comedian Trevor Noah have contributed their voices, emphasizing how numerous gamers depend on physical discs for affordability and the option to share games—a feature that will disappear in a digital-only environment. “If the media we buy is only digital, it can be taken away from us at a moment’s notice with no recourse,” he remarked, highlighting a significant concern felt by many.

### Responses from the Industry

As the announcement continues to resonate throughout gaming communities, smaller game developers are stepping forward to affirm their dedication to physical media. Companies such as Aeternum Game Studios and Tesura Games have expressed their resolve to keep producing physical game editions for as long as feasible, uniting in opposition to Sony’s forthcoming transition. Tesura Games declared, “We strongly condemn the decision to end physical media on PlayStation by 2028.”

Interestingly, discussions surrounding this policy change have transcended the gaming sector, inspiring some light-hearted humor from non-gaming brands. For instance, Domino’s UK playfully hinted at the idea of moving to “digital pizzas,” while GitHub introduced a service enabling users to obtain their repositories on CD-ROM, suggesting that digital ownership can sometimes feel as fleeting as renting a film.

### A Shift in Culture

Beyond the immediate issues, the decline of physical game discs indicates a wider cultural transformation in how we perceive and engage with media. Experts highlight that while digital transactions are becoming commonplace, the emotional connections and tangible relationships associated with physical games cannot be easily replicated. YouTube influencer Kit Ellis insightfully remarked, “Physical games have been at the heart of a lot of the magic moments we’ve had as video game fans,” alluding to the thrill of buying games and sharing experiences with friends.

As the industry contends with this substantial shift, politicians have also entered the conversation, with French political figure Jean-Luc Mélenchon advocating for legislative intervention on the issue. He contends that permitting digital-only purchases undermines consumer rights and suggests that video games should be regarded as cultural assets deserving protections akin to those granted to physical artwork.

### The Path Forward

The ongoing discourse raises crucial questions about the equilibrium between convenience and ownership in media consumption. Although digital versions of games offer advantages like immediate accessibility and reduced storage needs, the community’s opposition to the discontinuation of physical formats highlights the foundational principles of ownership and consumer rights. Whether Sony will reevaluate its stance in light of public opposition remains uncertain, but it is evident that the dialogue regarding the future of gaming media is far from concluded. As a key player in the industry, Sony’s decision will have lasting repercussions not only for its own consumers but for the entire gaming ecosystem moving ahead. The struggle to maintain physical games is not simply about nostalgia; it embodies a fight for the values of ownership and connection in an increasingly digital age.

Final Fantasy 7 Revelation is the end of the remake trilogy Square Enix kicked off with, er, Final Fantasy 7 Remake. Though, it looks like than ending might go on a bit longer than you might have anticipated. A cluster of listings in the backend of the Epic Games Store appear to suggest a heap of DLC’s planned for Revelation, including a “Story Expansion Pass”.

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