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**The Podracing Sequence in Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace**

The podracing segment in 1999’s *Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace* is distinguished as one of the most exhilarating and visually captivating scenes in the *Star Wars* prequels. This dynamic moment enthralls audiences with its depiction of strange extraterrestrial beings racing at incredible speeds in machines brimming with quirks, encapsulating the tumultuous essence of the *Star Wars* universe. The podracing competition, particularly the Boonta Eve Classic, provides a thrilling glimpse into a significant aspect of alien culture within the galaxy.

**Star Wars: Galactic Racer**

Building on this iconic scene, *Star Wars: Galactic Racer* is a video game focused on amplifying and enhancing the thrills of the podracing adventure. Positioned in a timeline following *Return of the Jedi* and likely close to the events of *The Force Awakens*, the game transports players beyond the well-trodden *Star Wars* stories. Rather than featuring legendary figures such as Luke Skywalker, players take on the role of a new character, Shade, who finds herself competing against the tyrannical reigning champion, Kestar Bool, within an expansive galactic racing circuit.

**Gameplay Mechanics and Racing Experience**

In *Galactic Racer*, the rush of speed excites as players control a range of vehicles, including speeder bikes, landspeeders, skimmers, and the signature podracers. Each vehicle boasts distinct attributes, offering varied racing experiences. Landspeeders excel in drifting but require time to reach their top speed; skimmers deftly maneuver with adjustable fins; speeder bikes provide quick bursts of speed but lack armor; while podracers achieve unparalleled velocities, presenting an electrifying challenge.

Grasping the game’s mechanics is essential, particularly the boost options, which feature standard turbo boosts and the more perilous “Ramjet” super-boost. Players navigate sharp bends and dodge hazards while managing vehicle wear and breakdowns caused by aggressive driving. As players advance, they can enhance and upgrade their vehicles through a roguelike progression system, ensuring each racing season is both high-stakes and gratifying.

**Campaign Mode and Storyline**

The core campaign chronicles Shade’s ascent against Kestar Bool, navigating rivalries and forming bonds with other racers. Players can participate in various races and deal with the implications of their performance, resulting in a dynamic progression that keeps each racing season compelling. The incorporation of quick-time events during pivotal moments, especially when addressing vehicle malfunctions, adds a layer of interactivity reminiscent of Anakin Skywalker’s legendary podracing trials.

**Visuals and Sound Design**

*Galactic Racer* dazzles visually, successfully embodying the gritty aesthetic of the *Star Wars* universe. The meticulous attention to detail guarantees that every racing track feels vibrant, with settings that highlight the distinct traits of various planets. The sound design enhances the visual experience, fully immersing players in the racing atmosphere with familiar audio cues and engine noises that fans of the franchise will admire.

**Multiplayer and Additional Content**

Beyond the main campaign, *Galactic Racer* provides a plethora of arcade races and multiplayer features, allowing players to face off against friends. The arcade modes include time trials and assorted challenges on classic tracks, with the opportunity for competitive leaderboards to enrich the gameplay experience. As players interact with friends in multiplayer settings, the thrill of racing escalates, fostering a lively community around the game.

**Conclusion**

In summary, *Star Wars: Galactic Racer* adeptly captures the exhilarating spirit of podracing while offering a rich gameplay experience replete with unique challenges and a captivating storyline. Despite minor shortcomings in on-foot segments and limited podracing content within the main campaign, the speed, thrill, and nostalgia of racing in the *Star Wars* galaxy forge an unforgettable experience for both fans and newcomers. This game illustrates how the lore surrounding podracing can be deepened, providing a fresh outlook on a cherished part of the *Star Wars* narrative while honoring its exhilarating heritage.

Or, you can just go for the ones you like the look of the most.

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In perhaps the least surprising Fallout news since Raul from New Vegas confirmed that ghouls with dodgy knees don’t enjoy sneaking, the person behind an AI-generated browser game dubbed Fallout: New York has claimed to have recieved a cease and desist message from Bethesda parent company ZeniMax. Their creation, if such a term fits, was generated using Anthropic’s Claude Opus 5.5 tech.

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# A Quest for the Night Watchman’s Torch in *World of Warcraft: Forever*

Today, I set out on a quest that put my skills to the test, challenged my determination, and became an unforgettable adventure. My objective? To discover a new treasure in *World of Warcraft: Forever*—the Night Watchman’s Torch. This coveted “toy” item allows players to carry a brilliantly shining torch while simultaneously wielding a weapon, representing a noteworthy advancement in the game.

## The Treasure of Duskwood

Players are drawn to the Night Watchman’s Torch mainly due to its introduction of a feature that *World of Warcraft* has never previously provided. Although different weapons have radiated light over the years, this torch distinctly casts an ambient shine, brightening shadowy areas and augmenting the sense of exploration in atmospheric regions. In a game where uncovering secrets and wandering are paramount, the addition of such a practical item resonates with players eager to delve deeper into the lore and surroundings.

Eager to witness this new feature firsthand, I set off to obtain this treasure from its resting spot—a fallen adventurer in Duskwood, a region that can be perilous for the unready. The hurdle? I mainly play as a Horde character while the torch lies within Alliance territory.

## Preparing for the Journey

With my highest-level character merely at level 14 and Duskwood needing at least level 20, I had my work cut out for me. After navigating a few twists and turns, I found myself commencing in Mulgore, needing to traverse all of Kalimdor before I could board a Zeppelin to the Eastern Kingdoms. The strategy was to journey on foot, execute a series of tactical evasions, and ideally steer clear of high-level foes and Alliance sentinels.

The trek through regions like the Barrens and into Orgrimmar was fairly smooth, and I relished the liveliness of the landscape as I maneuvered along familiar routes. Taking shortcuts here and there, I ultimately discovered myself in *The Crossroads*, securing the flight path—a blessing for my return voyage.

## Surprises Await

As I eventually boarded the Zeppelin bound for Tirisfal Glades, the anticipation was intense. The atmosphere, enhanced by the upgraded graphics, set the stage for a visually breathtaking journey. Upon arrival, I took a moment to admire the haunting allure of Tirisfal Glades before plotting my route through Silverpine Forest, Hillsbrad Foothills, and beyond.

Traversing the perilous Hillsbrad Foothills proved challenging. The zone was inhabited by aggressive monsters that threatened my character’s survival. An encounter with some spiders and a few other accidents contributed to an already hazardous mission, but nothing could shake my resolve.

## Encounters and Challenges

Soon, I entered the higher-level areas of Arathi Highlands where the true danger lurked. Through a sequence of unfortunate run-ins—with a relentless bear and, inevitably, the ever-watchful Alliance guards—my quest turned into a series of corpse runs throughout the region.

At one instance, triggering PvP status due to an unexpected encounter was a chilling experience. Navigating the Wetlands and Loch Modan took a turn for the chaotic as I dealt with choices that could lead to immediate death at the hands of powerful sentinels.

## A Twist of Fate

In the heat of the moment, I spotted another player carrying the very torch I sought! Inspiration struck, but the impending server shutdown added urgency. Without delay, I pressed on through the labyrinth of foes and possible traps.

Despite the intimidating final stretches and several respawn runs, I was determined to navigate to Duskwood. Just as I began to waver, a kind player directed me toward an entrance that required no key, easing one of the major hurdles during my expedition.

## The Quest Continues

As my adventure came to a close for the day, I was met with the bittersweet acknowledgment that my journey was still not complete. Though I had yet to claim the Night Watchman’s Torch, the experiences, near misses, and triumphant moments had reminded me why I fell in love with *World of Warcraft* in the first place. The thrill of an extended adventure, filled with challenges, intrigue, and peril, embodies the essence of gaming.

The legacy of the game keeps evolving, and in *World of Warcraft: Forever*, I eagerly anticipate more quests that not only challenge but also capture the enchantment of exploration and adventure.

Stay tuned for future updates as I pursue my quest to reclaim the coveted Night Watchman’s Torch!

Including the Nightfall and Lightfall katanas.

The post How to Get All Katanas in Slayers 2 [Recipes and Drop Chances] appeared first on Gamezebo.

Note from James, 02/10: We’ve heard your complaints that some of the wording in this piece – a lot of which, if I’m honest, was added/changed by me in the edit – overstates the chair’s potential health benefits. The HBADA’s X7 chair may reduce back pain during long periods of sitting at your desk but it will not literally fix your spine. While it is and will remain the RPS way to indulge in some occasional hyperbole, we don’t want to suggest that swivel chairs cure physical conditions, so I’ve clarified these bits to avoid confusion.

AI is everywhere, exhausting to keep up with, and increasingly perceived as harmful to games. But that’s mostly generative AI; the more limited, less media-scraping and energy-hungry breeds of artificial intelligence can still play a harmless, maybe even useful role, especially on the hardware side. Even if it finds itself in some unexpected places, as is the case with HBADA’s X7 chair.

While AI-powered lumbar support sounds like the kind of gimmicky nonsense that’s become all too common in 2026, I’ve been using an X7 for a week, and it’s… surprisingly effective? Definitely for straightening up my posture, which I’m hopeful will help with my recurring back pain issues. It’s been a very pleasant surprise.

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Getting familiar.

The post Vampire Life Races – How To Become All Races + Abilities! appeared first on Gamezebo.

PUBG: Black Budget, an extraction shooter spin-off of Krafton’s battle royale, has been cancelled after just under a year of closed alpha testing. Krafton cited a lack of faith that Black Budget’s “current direction” would lead to “an experience players could enjoy over the long term” as the reasoning behind their call to end development. Though, they insisted PUBG Studios have learned valuable lessons that’ll serve future games.

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**Nerial: A Contemplation on Closure Following 13 Years and 11 Games**

Following nearly thirteen years in the gaming industry and the release of eleven titles, video game developer Nerial is confronting closure. The choice, elucidated by creative director and founder François Alliot, is complex. It encompasses familiar industry hurdles, like financial strain and a transforming market environment, while also emerging from personal contemplation and strategic decisions for the future of game development.

Nerial made its debut in 2016 with *Reigns*, which swiftly garnered acclaim for its inventive gameplay mechanics reminiscent of Tinder’s swiping function. The game’s distinct mixture of strategy, humor, and depth in exploring power, money, and mortality distinguished it. Its acclaim spawned multiple spinoffs, including licensed adaptations themed around *Game of Thrones* and *The Witcher*, solidifying Nerial’s status as a significant entity in the indie game arena.

Although *Reigns* was a significant triumph, later titles such as *Card Shark* and *Crush House* have produced less fruitful outcomes. Alliot admits the post-COVID environment is challenging, with a tangible decline in the gaming industry being evident. He reflects on an industry “crash” and the widespread impact of artificial intelligence, which he perceives has influenced the creative field. Acknowledging the necessity to take a step back, Alliot intends to rejuvenate his indie spirit and focus on creating from a more personal and less commercially driven standpoint.

Being acquired by Devolver Digital in 2021 added another layer of intricacy to Nerial’s operations. Although Alliot values the collaboration and success that arose from this partnership, he felt the limitations of operating under the auspices of an internal studio. Each game developed had to conform to Devolver’s brand identity, resulting in a second-guessing of creative direction and a dilution of the streamlined vitality associated with being an independent studio.

Devolver will maintain the rights to all existing Nerial titles, a decision supported by Alliot, who expresses satisfaction with their previous partnerships. He remains hopeful that if Devolver chooses to produce sequels or new iterations of games like *Card Shark*, they will take his insights into account. Nevertheless, Alliot is eager to pursue new prototypes and concepts autonomously, distinct from the Devolver brand.

The ramifications of this closure reach the Nerial team. The small studio, composed of nine members, will disband, with Alliot and his wife, Tamara, intending to continue their creative journey together. Alliot conveyed gratitude for his team, emphasizing the talent and commitment of each individual, some of whom have extensive backgrounds in the gaming industry. He aims to collaborate with them as contractors in the future, despite the immediate need to streamline operations.

As Alliot begins a new chapter, he finds comfort and inspiration in the realm of art. By visiting museums like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, he seeks to creatively recharge and ready himself for potential projects that may arise from his artistic explorations. While acknowledging the current upheaval in the gaming field, he perceives this as an occasion to reimagine his contributions to the industry.

The gaming landscape continues to change rapidly, shaped by technological innovations and evolving consumer expectations. Alliot underscores the importance of originality and fresh viewpoints in an age where ideas can be quickly replicated. He remains confident that with authenticity and a distinctive voice, he can craft experiences that resonate with players.

As Nerial shuts its doors after over a decade, it leaves a legacy characterized by innovation and creativity. Alliot’s journey mirrors the challenges and decisions faced by many indie developers in a competitive environment, as he strives to reclaim his passion for game development in a realm where the only constant is change.

After seeing open-world imm-sim No Law last month, I’m sure the developers would hope I was gripped by memories of missions you can approach stealthily or in all-out action, the sci-fi combat where you wield slow-time grenades and cyberpunk implants, or even the powerful kick you can use to boot open locked doors. But, no, what I keep thinking about is the corner shop where protagonist Grey Harker, an ex-soldier on a murderous rampage to take down Port Desire’s four corrupt mayors, stopped to pick up some batteries.

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