Highlights from PlayStation’s September State of Play Presentation

### The Pleasing Soundscapes of Super Mario Sunshine

Super Mario Sunshine, launched for the Nintendo GameCube in 2002, continues to be a beloved installment in the Mario series, not just for its captivating gameplay and vibrant settings but also for its exceptional audio crafting. Among the multitude of sounds that fill the game, the noise of Mario’s footsteps emerges as a distinctive and gratifying auditory delight.

#### Sentimental Audio Journey

Numerous players reminisce about cherished moments linked to playing Super Mario Sunshine. For some, like the writer of a nostalgic piece on these sounds, Mario’s footstep sounds ignite a sense of warmth and recognition. It’s quite common for players to take joy in the unpretentious act of Mario sprinting along the cobbled walkways of Delfino Plaza. The soft yet recognizable “click-clack” of his brown work footwear imparts a rhythmic essence that echoes with a sense of adventure and discovery.

As players maneuver Mario across various terrains—be it the sleek stone of Delfino Plaza, the rugged wooden planks, or the coarse, crunching sand of Isle Delfino’s shores—each surface delivers its own unique auditory cue. This mindful sound crafting enhances the gaming adventure, encouraging players to delight in the nuances of movement and surroundings.

#### The In-Game Audio Variety

Aside from Mario’s footsteps, Super Mario Sunshine exhibits an impressive assortment of sound effects that amplify its immersive environment. The mechanical noises of FLUDD, Mario’s water-jetting partner, introduce additional layers to the audio scenery. The whirs and clicks as FLUDD shifts between modes provide players with a feeling of responsiveness and interaction—a clever method to signal variations in gameplay dynamics.

In addition, the playful tones made by characters like the Piantas, who joyfully shout “Baackabaa maaahumbuh!” when addressed, add to the game’s cheerful appeal. The varied audio effects across different settings heighten the fun atmosphere of Super Mario Sunshine, transforming each quest into a uniquely engaging experience.

#### A Link to ASMR

Curiously, for some gamers, like the author who ponders their experiences, Super Mario Sunshine might signify an early introduction to ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response). The calming essence of Mario’s actions and the overall sound composition can establish a soothing environment akin to ASMR videos. Just as culinary shows and gentle sound experiences promote relaxation in audiences, the familiar sounds of Mario’s journeys provide a similar solace, comforting the spirit amid the hustle of everyday life.

#### Conclusion

In a time when video game audio design has advanced remarkably, Super Mario Sunshine stands out as a remarkable illustration of how deliberate sound can amplify player immersion and nostalgia. The noises of Mario’s footsteps, coupled with the rich auditory fabric of the game, continue to resonate with enthusiasts who value not just the gameplay but the sonic joys the game offers. For those yearning for a peaceful moment, revisiting the cheerful stomps of Mario might be the ideal solution. Enjoy your gaming, and may your weekend be filled with delightful little Mario steps!

Slay The Spire 2 launched into early access last week to the tune of over half a million Steam concurrents, which isn’t too shabby for a game with placeholder art that looks like it was knocked up in MS Paint. I played a couple runs of the roguelike deckbuilder this weekend, and experienced such positive emotions as Wait, Doesn’t This Basically Break The Game? Delightfully Devilish, Seymour and Oh, I Forgot I Had That Potion.

I wouldn’t say I’m bowled over, mind. The original Slay The Spire precipitated a Cambrian explosion of roguelite or roguelike deckbuilders. The sequel has to stand apart from both its predecessor and from all the games Spire has in-Spired, like Monster Train. While not without precedent, the co-op functionality could be its silver bullet. So it’s just as well that the game’s first round of patches are targetting problems with multiplayer.

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## Leon S. Kennedy’s Comeback in Resident Evil Requiem

Enthusiasts of the Resident Evil series have been abuzz with theories regarding Leon S. Kennedy’s role in the forthcoming **Resident Evil Requiem**. This speculation was recently confirmed by an unintended leak on the PlayStation Store, showcasing Leon alongside the new lead character, Grace Ashcroft. The affirmation arrives just before the expected Game Awards 2025 presentation, where a comprehensive official reveal was anticipated.

### Leak Insights and Validation

Earlier today, users on PlayStation Network (PSN) encountered notifications related to pre-orders that included game cover art featuring Leon. His appearance mirrors that of his prior roles in **Resident Evil 4** but presents a more evolved version of the character. Screenshots that have been circulating on social media, authenticated by outlets like IGN, display the promotional materials for the game. **Resident Evil Requiem** is set for release on February 27, 2026, leading many to speculate that this disclosure was aimed at generating excitement as the launch nears.

In a noteworthy tweet, the user Mr. Kennedy provided insights into the leak, detailing Leon’s role and affirming his presence alongside Grace Ashcroft. He remarked that Leon’s character design aligns with the remakes, highlighting an aging protagonist that resonates with long-time fans.

### Leon’s Legacy in Resident Evil

Leon S. Kennedy has been a pivotal character in the Resident Evil franchise since his introduction in **Resident Evil 2**, with key roles in **Resident Evil 4** and **Resident Evil 6** following. His character has cultivated a devoted following, particularly after the critically praised remakes of **Resident Evil 2** and **Resident Evil 4**. Capcom, eager to rekindle nostalgia among its audience, had previously suggested Leon’s possible return, yet details remained closely guarded until now.

Producer Masato Kumazawa had previously squashed rumors regarding leaked images supposedly showcasing Leon with an eyepatch and intimated at forthcoming DLC. His remarks indicated that while speculation thrived, official confirmations were scarce—until now.

### Further Leaks: Rosemary Winters and Game Content

Alongside Leon’s announcement, additional leaks concerning **Resident Evil Requiem** have surfaced. An inadvertent revelation from GameStop suggested potential new features, including a Deluxe Edition for the PC variant. This edition is said to incorporate a “Sanctuary” expansion pass, featuring two new narrative scenarios and a “Mercenaries mode.” Furthermore, it hints that Rosemary Winters, the daughter of Ethan Winters from **Resident Evil Village**, may also be a playable character.

The likelihood of Rosemary’s inclusion introduces another layer of intrigue to the game’s storyline, given she was an infant in **Resident Evil Village**. Nonetheless, some doubts persist about the accuracy of the leaked information, as they depend on the reliability of the employees sharing them.

### Conclusion

The anticipation surrounding **Resident Evil Requiem** is intense, particularly with the confirmed return of Leon S. Kennedy. As the community eagerly awaits more information, including possible gameplay mechanics and narrative developments, the upcoming Game Awards 2025 is poised to be a significant occasion for fans of the series. The incorporation of well-known characters like Leon alongside new additions such as Grace Ashcroft and Rosemary Winters signals an exciting progression in the franchise, ensuring that players have much to anticipate.