Gait Games

### Resident Evil Requiem Unveils “Leon Must Die Forever” Mode

The survival horror game *Resident Evil Requiem* has launched a new update across all platforms, captivating fans with its latest feature—a game mode called “Leon Must Die Forever.” This update not only addresses several bug fixes but also offers a replayable roguelike experience centered on action gameplay, highlighting the beloved character Leon S. Kennedy along with his iconic quips.

This mode was hinted at by *Resident Evil Requiem* director Koshi Nakanishi shortly after the game’s successful debut in February, which quickly earned critical acclaim and commercial success, exceeding six million copies sold. In a video message posted on Twitter, Nakanishi teased upcoming story DLC and a mini-game update, both of which have raised expectations within the gaming community. Although the awaited story DLC has not yet launched, the new mode was introduced on May 8, 2023.

“Leon Must Die Forever” features aspects reminiscent of the classic *Mercenaries* mode, remixing levels from the primary game into a score-driven, arcade-style experience. Participants are challenged to accumulate points and secure upgrades while battling through swarms of enemies.

While the addition of the new mode brings thrilling content to *Resident Evil Requiem*, some players have voiced confusion regarding the inclusion of segments from the original campaign’s dialogue. This dialogue makes the mode feel more like a skillfully crafted fan mod instead of a completely new official game mode. Regardless, many players are excited to once again engage with Leon, a character who remains a favorite among fans.

The reception to *Resident Evil Requiem* has been notably positive, positioning it as one of the most lauded entries in the *Resident Evil* series. With the rollout of new modes and the potential for additional updates, fans are eagerly observing how Capcom will advance support for the game going forward. As *Requiem* progresses, it cements itself as a significant contribution to the realm of single-player video games in 2026, showcasing the franchise’s durability and continued appeal.

I do love a bit of space exploration in games, there’s something quite beautiful about the infinite openness, alongside having a terrifying primal fear quality. The peacefulness is often the important thing for me though, and the upcoming cargo delivery sim Space Hauler looks like it will, uh, deliver on that front.

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# Delving into Nintendo’s Heritage: A Personal Expedition Through Gaming History

In the expansive realm of video gaming, few brands evoke as much sentimentality and allegiance as Nintendo. With a storied past and an array of legendary titles, it has succeeded in enchanting players across generations. As a recent addition to the team at Kotaku, I’ve been pondering my own experience with Nintendo and its games, alongside the influence it has had on the gaming sphere.

## My Nintendo Experience

Nintendo has played a pivotal role in my life since I was a child. While my experiences may not align with those of many dedicated gamers, my bond with this iconic brand feels profoundly unique. I vividly recall playing the NES in short 15-minute sessions at an after-school program and discovering the N64 alongside a neighbor. My first personal console was a GameCube, which served as a platform for countless playthroughs of niche titles like *Baten Kaitos* and *Tales of Symphonia*. My admiration for the Nintendo DS flourished with distinct games such as *Contact* and *Heroes of Ruin*, and I unabashedly cherished the often-criticized Wii U.

Despite this enduring connection, I’ve encountered some curious gaps in my Nintendo knowledge. As an ardent fan of *Mario Sunshine*, it wasn’t until much later that I explored *Super Mario 64*. Nevertheless, my commitment to covering Nintendo’s current landscape, including labor practices and recent game releases, has kept me engaged with the brand’s progression.

## A Monthly Dive into Nintendo

Acknowledging the necessity to dive deeper into all things Nintendo, I have resolved to set aside some time each month to investigate various elements of the company. This journey will manifest in different ways—from scrutinizing obscure aspects of earnings reports to showcasing the creativity embedded within Nintendo’s passionate fan communities. My aim is to unveil neglected narratives and offer fresh insights into Nintendo’s influence from both historical and contemporary perspectives.

## Zelda 2: An Unearthed Treasure

For this inaugural article, the focus is on *Zelda 2: The Adventure of Link*. Recently, a 2003 interview with Shigeru Miyamoto emerged, shedding light on his critical opinions regarding the game. Although Miyamoto acknowledged that *Zelda 2* was produced by a different team than its predecessor and labeled it a failure, the game possesses a multifaceted legacy.

Upon its launch, *Zelda 2* garnered positive reviews and enjoyed commercial success. Yet, throughout the years, its standing has waned, particularly as the *Zelda* series has evolved into more intricately designed experiences with titles like *Ocarina of Time* and *Breath of the Wild*. Intrigued by its reputation, I decided to try it out myself, thanks to Nintendo Switch Online.

### The Journey of Playing Zelda 2

My encounters with *Zelda 2* have been a mixed experience. The mechanics of the game appear clunky by today’s standards: Link moves sluggishly, and the timing required for sword strikes can be especially unforgiving. As I navigate the game world, I frequently find myself disoriented and exasperated, often being sent back after each defeat. Nonetheless, there exists an undeniable allure in the obstacles it presents.

Interestingly, while numerous critics point out its divergence from the original *Legend of Zelda*, I discover nostalgic moments within its open-world layout. The sense of adventure and wonder that characterized earlier gaming experiences is vivid as I traverse its realms, exploring shadowy temples filled with haunting melodies and unpredictable challenges. This journey encapsulates the fundamental essence of the adventure genre.

### Reevaluating Zelda’s Heritage

Miyamoto’s view of *Zelda 2* as a “failure” prompts a larger conversation regarding what defines a franchise. Should a game be deemed subpar merely for straying from expectations? The habit of confining franchises to a handful of seminal titles can overshadow distinctive entries that present a divergent experience.

The *Zelda* franchise finds itself at a pivotal juncture today, having realized monumental success with *Breath of the Wild* and *Tears of the Kingdom*. Yet, there exists tangible pressure for its forthcoming installment to replicate the success of these titles. This brings forth the question: what dictates the identity of a franchise? Is it the critics, the fans, or the developers? Perhaps it is a blend of all these elements.

## Conclusion: Welcoming the Unpredictable

As I persist in exploring the *Zelda* franchise, I anticipate more inventive approaches that surprise players in ways that classic titles have achieved. While the gaming landscape may not revert to a sidescrolling format in the near future, the legacy of games like *Zelda 2* serves as a reminder of the beauty found in diversity and exploration.

In the end, this journey into Nintendo’s legacy is not solely about revisiting nostalgia; it is also an endeavor to appreciate the varied experiences that have formed gaming as a whole. Much like navigating the world of *Zelda*, my adventure

A thing that kind of got lost somewhere along the way in the Sonic the Hedgehog series is its themes of environmentalism. The games just kind of became about doing Cool Things or kissing human women, all of which I approve to be clear in as earnest a way as I can come across. Thematically, some of the more recent games can be a bit lacking, so it’s nice to see a game like Artius: Pure Imagination take a stance on something. That something being, quite simply, making art yourself is good, actually.

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**Delving into the Soundtrack of *Mixtape*: A Melodic Expedition Through Feelings and Reminiscence**

*Mixtape*, crafted by Beethoven & Dinosaur, transcends being merely a game; it is a personal tale interwoven with a thoughtfully assembled playlist that reflects the themes of nostalgia and maturation. At the heart of the gameplay is the protagonist Stacy Rockford’s eponymous mixtape, which the creators designed around a collection of songs that stir various emotions and establish the atmosphere for each segment of the narrative. In a recent conversation, creative director Johnny Galvatron and producer Woody Woodward divulged their reasoning behind their song selections and the accompanying stories.

### Kicking Off with DEVO’s “That’s Good”

The adventure begins with DEVO’s “That’s Good,” which infuses an energetic vibe as characters Stacy, Slater, and Cassandra set out on their final night of untroubled youthful fun. Galvatron, a devoted admirer of DEVO, stresses the song’s role in embodying the happiness of youth while serving as the catalyst for the game’s inception—”We thought, ‘What if we created a game centered around a mixtape?’”

### Settling In with The Jesus and Mary Chain

Shifting to a more personal ambiance, “Just Like Honey” by The Jesus and Mary Chain plays as the trio retreats to Stacy’s bedroom. This track captures the ideal hangout atmosphere, contrasting the previous excitement while emphasizing the warmth of friendships during crucial life events.

### The Ethereal Alice Coltrane in a Disturbing Scene

An unforeseen twist emerges with “Galaxy In Turiya” by Alice Coltrane, which accompanies a notably grotesque kiss scene. This clash of a beautiful melody with a disquieting visual was a conscious decision by Galvatron, seeking to delve into the contradictions of romance and awkwardness that accompany adolescence.

### High-Energy Moments with “Sensitive to Light” by Rainbow

Stacy’s defiant adventures continue in a nostalgic flashback paired with “Sensitive to Light” by Rainbow. The vigor of this tune amplifies the excitement of the chase scene, mirroring the high spirits and liberation of teenage life.

### Silverchair’s “Freak” Emphasizes Headbanging Memories

The sense of nostalgia heightens with Silverchair’s “Freak” in a music video scene, where players join the characters in headbanging. This selection reflects Galvatron’s personal connection to the band during his high school years, creating an enjoyable and immersive player experience.

### A Contemplative Moment with Mitch Murder’s “Remember When”

“Remember When” by Mitch Murder acts as a significant moment in the game, facilitating a flashback where characters reflect on the impact of music in their lives. It holds profound personal significance for Galvatron, relating to his path as a game developer.

### Hunting for Clues with Harper’s Bizarre and The Chi-Lites

As the story progresses, “Witchi Tai To” by Harper’s Bizarre plays during a search scene, showcasing the game’s capability of employing music to enhance moments of revelation. Following that, “Have You Seen Her” by The Chi-Lites sets a heartfelt scene as Stacy embarks on a scavenger hunt, further intensifying the emotional connections among characters.

### Energy and Emotion with The Smashing Pumpkins and More

The stream of spirited rock continues with The Smashing Pumpkins’ “Love,” encapsulating teenage angst and defiance after a dramatic clash, perfectly soundtracking the characters’ frustrations as they skate around town. Each chosen song plays a crucial role in forming the game’s emotional terrain.

### Introspection and Heartbreak in “Roads” by Portishead

The emotional zenith of the game is highlighted by “Roads” by Portishead, which articulates moments of grief and contemplation following a fallout among characters. This selection underscores the profound emotional currents present in youthful relationships and the anguish of parting.

### The Apex of Friendship with “Yesterday’s Hero” and Joy Division

Stacy’s urgent dash to rescue Cassandra is fueled by “Yesterday’s Hero,” while the legendary “Atmosphere” by Joy Division offers a thoughtful farewell to their hometown. Each track not only enriches the narrative but also deepens the player’s connection with the characters’ journeys.

### Conclusion: The Emotional Significance of Music in *Mixtape*

Concluding with “Plainsong” by The Cure grants a bittersweet conclusion to the characters’ journey, encapsulating the essence of goodbye and loss. The amalgamation of such an evocative soundtrack alongside the narrative framework of *Mixtape* showcases how vital music is to storytelling, linking players with the shared feelings of youth, camaraderie, and the intricacies of growing up.

With its expertly chosen tracks, *Mixtape* employs music to forge a rich, immersive experience that resonates emotionally and nostalgically, rendering it a remarkable narrative adventure.

The Stop Killing Games campaign announced plans to set up some non-governmental organisations earlier this year, with the aim of ensuring their work goes beyond a current push to prevent online games being rendered unplayable when publishers shut down their servers. One of these regional advocacy groups has now launched in the UK, going by the name Gamers’ Voice.

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**The Influence of Wayne June in Gaming: A Contemplation on His Legacy and AI Ethics**

Wayne June’s association with Red Hook Studios’ *Darkest Dungeon* is unmatched, reminiscent of Logan Cunningham’s narration in Supergiant Games’ *Bastion*. June’s rich, melancholic voice became the essence of the dark fantasy dungeon crawler, echoing with players in every crushing defeat and close triumph. His death in January 2025 left a substantial gap in the gaming community, sparking conversations about how to celebrate his legacy.

In a recent statement, *Darkest Dungeon* director Chris Bourassa disclosed that while June had shown openness to having his voice utilized in generative AI models, he repudiated the idea after June’s demise. Bourassa indicated that this choice derived from a commitment to respect June’s artistry, asserting, “I would never, ever erode his incredible and timeless performances by teaching a machine to sound like him.” This perspective mirrors a rising concern within the gaming sector regarding the ethical considerations of employing AI technologies to imitate the work of departed actors.

The application of generative AI to replicate voices of deceased actors has sparked significant debate. Games such as *Cyberpunk 2077* have incorporated this technology to resurrect the voices of actors posthumously, eliciting mixed feedback from the industry and fans alike. Notably, voice actor Elias Toufexis openly condemned the use of AI to simulate his performances, showcasing a broader industry unease over the genuineness of such methods. Conversely, Bourassa’s choice to avoid AI in honoring June conveys a clear message, prioritizing human artistry above technological imitation.

June’s impact on *Darkest Dungeon* and its sequel, *Darkest Dungeon 2*, was characterized by his exceptional vocal talent. His deep voice and skillful rhythm not only enhanced the narrative but also formed a profound connection with players, instilling a sense of atmospheric tension and emotional depth. As Bourassa poignantly remarked, “His inimitable work is woven into the very fabric of our industry in a way that cannot be forgotten.” This underscores the significant influence June had on the storytelling aspects within these games.

As the gaming industry navigates the convergence of technology and creativity, Wayne June’s legacy stands as a testament to the authenticity and expertise that human performers contribute to their art. His distinctive voice and commitment to his craft have established a benchmark that values genuine human interaction over the ease of AI imitation. The decisions made by creators like Bourassa indicate a dedication to maintaining the integrity of artistic expression in video games, honoring those who have provided invaluable contributions to the medium.

I first played Family Reunion at Gamescom Latam last week, which in hindsight was a bit of trek, considering the demo is right there on Itch and Steam. It’s good fun, though: a unique and chaotic time-attack adventure game, in which you play a disinterested child forced to entertain themselves throughout an interminable family meal, and rendered in the hand-doodled style that we all have before we learn how to properly hold a pen.

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### Helldivers 2: A Challenging Reception and Developer Reaction

**Summary of Helldivers 2’s Steam Review Status**

Helldivers 2, a multiplayer twin-stick shooter developed by Arrowhead Game Studios, is currently experiencing considerable criticism from its player community on Steam. Recently, the game’s review status has fallen to Mostly Negative, a concerning change that has decreased its overall rating from Mostly Positive. This trend has led the developers to confront player issues directly on platforms such as Steam, Reddit, and Discord, an initiative that seems to have only heightened player dissatisfaction.

**Player Dissatisfaction and General Game Sentiment**

The ongoing discussion about Helldivers 2 appears to be largely unfavorable. Even though it launched over two years ago, the number of active players remains strong, showcasing a committed fanbase. Nonetheless, the intense reactions from players have been predominantly driven by a series of complaints that resonate with the frustrations often expressed regarding live-service games.

Recent grievances focus on crucial gameplay aspects and developer engagement. Highlighted concerns include:

– **Weapon Adjustments**: Ongoing modifications to weapons have frustrated players who feel that their gaming experience is being negatively impacted.
– **Purchasable Warbonds**: The addition of in-game currency that can be bought has raised concerns, particularly among players who believe efforts should be directed towards addressing current bugs.
– **Deteriorating Performance**: Reports indicate that numerous players are encountering decreasing performance on PC, which diminishes the overall enjoyment of the game.
– **Insufficient Patch Note Transparency**: Players have voiced dissatisfaction with patch notes for failing to detail enemy enhancements, stirring worries about game balance and fairness.
– **Communication Issues**: Perhaps the most pointed frustration is the perception that Arrowhead is not communicating effectively with its audience, leading to a further breakdown of trust.

**Arrowhead’s Efforts to Reengage with the Community**

In a recent communication, Arrowhead sought to address some of these issues and respond to community inquiries. However, the reactions to this outreach have not resulted in the positive shift that the developers had anticipated. Critics have remarked that their attempts felt more like corporate speak rather than sincere engagement, comparing them to an out-of-touch executive trying to connect with regular players.

The community’s feedback has been candid, with leading comments on Reddit capturing this sentiment: “How many times will you say this without actually making changes?” This illustrates a profound disappointment that merely responding to grievances is not enough without concrete actions being implemented.

**Conclusion: A Polarized Community**

The circumstances surrounding Helldivers 2 highlight the difficulties developers face in sustaining a healthy relationship with their player community, especially within a continuous-service context. While some negative feedback may be viewed as overstated by casual observers, the issues raised by devoted players reflect a broader concern regarding expectations and dialogue in the gaming sector.

As Helldivers 2 progresses, the developers must traverse this complex terrain to regain the confidence of its community. This will necessitate not only rectifying gameplay discrepancies but also nurturing a more transparent conversation with fans to ensure their perspectives are acknowledged and appreciated. Whether Arrowhead can effect positive change remains uncertain, but the journey ahead will undoubtedly require careful thought and decisive action.

This week the former Zachtronics folk of Coincidence released U.V.S. Nirmana, a new “Zach-like” puzzler that has fairly spaghettified my synapses, despite being billed as “medium-difficulty”. It puts you in charge of a monastic spacecraft embarked on a pilgrimage through the galaxy, steeped in references to Dharmic religions. During your voyages, you’ll help other civilisations with their philosophical dilemmas using a cosmic reactor that functions like a music sequencer. You’ll join up pipes and components to resolve relationships between terms like “form”, “amen” and “svaha”, doing your best to minimise “flux”.

Playing the opening few puzzles, I felt a mixture of excitement and guilt. Excitement, because while I barely understand what’s going on, I love the ritual obtuseness of, say, trying to distil “light” and “sound” into “thought” by means of valves and relays. And guilt, because it turns out original Zachtronics founder Zach Barth told me about this game two years ago, and I forgot. Here, very belatedly, is the second half of that interview from 2024, continuing Zachtronic’s journey through the strange and arbitrary cosmos of licensed adaptations.

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