Gait Games

As Oisin reported over the weekend, Steam Machine engineers Yazan Aldehayyat and Pierre-Loup Griffais gave a big Valve thumbs-down to the practice of platform exclusives – a hot topic in the context of Xbox owners Microsoft retreating back into whatever kind of shrivelled, joyless husk Xbox is nowadays. The same interview, with Bloomberg scoopsmith Jason Schreier, also touched on the acutely PC-spoiling subject of RAMnarök and its subsequent, en-masse embiggening of hardware prices. Good news? No! Obviously it’s all terrible!

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With Bethesda having begun to dip their fingers into the remaster bucket in recent years, some modders who’d decided long before that to get the ball rolling on such things themselves have had to reckon with the idea that official siblings of their passion projects could be in the works. It happened last year with Skyblivion and Oblivion Remastered, now it’s happened for the crew behind The Capital Wasteland Project, an effort to recreate Fallout 3 in Fallout 4, and Fallout 4: New Vegas.

Thankfully, both teams of modders have made clear they plan to keep on trucking with their efforts following the confirmation of the official remasters.

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**Monster Hunter Wilds Price Reduction: A Contemplation of Gaming’s Pricing Landscape**

*Monster Hunter Wilds* is about to experience a permanent price reduction 18 months following its initial launch, as stated by PC Gamer. Released at a price of $70, and featuring an impressive 195 different add-ons available for individual purchase on Steam, the game has ignited debate regarding its pricing approach. While Capcom has not disclosed the details of the new price, the forthcoming change underscores a noteworthy trend in the gaming sector: a shift towards rare price cuts instead of the regular budget re-releases that were once the norm.

Traditionally, it was commonplace for video games to be repriced at a significantly lower cost approximately six months to a year after their launch. This practice was often celebrated by consumers, who were thrilled to have the chance to buy games that were previously unaffordable. The idea of “budget games” became a fundamental aspect, providing economical alternatives for a broader audience and boosting ongoing sales for older titles.

The writer, reminiscing about their experiences, recalls managing the UK version of *PC Gamer*’s budget section, titled “They’re Back!” This column highlighted a selection of re-released games each month, enabling gamers to uncover titles that had been successful previously but were now available at more accessible prices. Nonetheless, as the decade advanced, the gaming environment shifted, with an increasing dependence on digital releases eclipsing traditional budget re-releases.

**International Development of Budget Titles**

While the concept of budget releases thrived in the UK, it took a different, less structured route in the U.S. The British market featured well-established labels like Sold Out by Mastertronic and White Label, which actively licensed major titles for discounted re-release. In contrast, U.S. publishers often depended on compilations and budget lines managed by various companies, resulting in a more scattered approach.

Console gaming revealed greater uniformity across both regions, with familiar labels such as PlayStation’s Greatest Hits, Nintendo’s Player’s Choice, and Xbox’s Platinum Hits. These initiatives guaranteed that beloved titles would be offered at reduced prices following an initial sales boom, allowing cost savings for consumers while creating secondary revenue for publishers.

**The Impact of Physical Media’s Decline**

The reduction of physical media has played a crucial role in the decline of the budget gaming trend. Typically, a game priced at $60 would not realistically stay on shelves for an entire year at full price. The strategic reduction of prices enabled publishers to take advantage of subsequent sales from consumers who had initially missed out on the game. However, as the gaming landscape transitioned to predominantly digital sales, this expectation changed dramatically.

Although the emergence of games-as-a-service models and the proliferation of free-to-play games have risen, the author argues that employing discounted re-releases would enhance the entire gaming ecosystem. Reducing prices beyond nominal discounts could attract previously disinterested consumers and reignite discussions around older titles, potentially bringing them to new audiences eager for novel experiences.

**Looking Ahead: The Future of Game Pricing**

For titles like *Ghost of Yōtei*, which sold 4.8 million copies at its launch price, it’s challenging to foresee a repeat of success at the current price of $70. The author theorizes that shifting to a budget release could revitalize interest and drive new sales numbers, positively impacting the market, even as the conventional sale cycle remains.

Such pricing tactics, which currently trend towards temporary discounts during sale events, could be reformed by creating dedicated sections for budget games on platforms such as PlayStation and Steam. This would not only enhance accessibility but could also spark renewed media attention and community interest in these titles, paving the way for healthier consumer engagement and sustained franchise success.

In conclusion, as gaming continues to evolve, there’s a call to revisit and rejuvenate the tradition of budget gaming. Reintroducing affordable options could foster a more inclusive environment for gamers while benefiting developers and publishers as well. Perhaps it’s time to rekindle the delightful anticipation of discovering discounted gems in our preferred gaming genres.

Light the campfire in the Tall Woods.

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Game Of Thrones: War For Westeros, the Age of Empiresy RTS teeming with Targaryens and laced with Lannisters, has been delayed to 2027. Developers PlaySide have decided that while development’s “progressing well”, they need a bit more time to nail their strategical rendition of the Seven Kingdoms.

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**Kingdom Hearts Missing-Link: Uncovering the Secrets Behind the Canceled Game and Leaked Cinematic**

The *Kingdom Hearts* franchise has enchanted fans for years with its complex storytelling and enigmatic lore, merging Disney and Square Enix characters in distinctive and surprising manners. One of the most eagerly awaited mobile games in the series was *Kingdom Hearts Missing-Link*, designed to connect narrative elements relevant to the highly anticipated *Kingdom Hearts IV*. Yet, in an unexpected development, Square Enix announced the cancellation of *Missing-Link* in 2025, leaving fans with unresolved questions and a yearning for answers.

Recently, a video allegedly associated with *Missing-Link* surfaced online, igniting a flurry of speculation within the *Kingdom Hearts* fanbase. The footage, initially posted on 4chan and later spread across various social media sites, features a group of keyblade wielders dressed in astronaut-like outfits facing off against a formidable Heartless. After defeating their shadowy adversary, the chaotic void surrounding them fades, revealing Quadratum, a locale inspired by real-life Japan, anticipated to play a crucial role in *Kingdom Hearts IV*.

As lively debates unfold, fans theorize that the characters displayed in the leaked video may signify warriors from Scala ad Caelum, an essential location in *Kingdom Hearts* lore, delving into the complexities of Quadratum. This theory coincides with the developers’ initial ambitions for *Missing-Link*, which was to highlight the ties between various worlds and their histories.

Nevertheless, the authenticity of the leaked cinematic faces skepticism. Some beta testers of *Missing-Link* have voiced their doubts, claiming the visuals do not match their experiences during the testing phase, provoking discussions about the possibility of fan art or modifications from other games. A redditor expressed, “This looks absolutely nothing like *Missing-Link*, sorry,” illustrating the split opinions within the community. Additionally, there are assertions that the video might be generated by AI, though this theory is also debated among fans.

The individual responsible for the leak has released several screenshots, including images featuring Brain, a character familiar with the lore of prior *Kingdom Hearts* mobile games. Nonetheless, the validity of these assertions is still being examined as various forums, including the *Kingdom Hearts* subreddit, continue to limit conversations about leaks, adhering to Square Enix’s regulations.

Currently, Square Enix has not addressed the situation, leaving fans eager for definitive details or clarifications. The *Kingdom Hearts* community remains active, striving to piece together the mysteries surrounding *Missing-Link* and *Kingdom Hearts IV*, fervently wishing for insights that could enrich the understanding of a narrative-rich series filled with depth and fascination. Without official announcements or further disclosures, fans must depend on their interpretations and theories to comprehend the ever-changing story landscape of *Kingdom Hearts*.

### Fallout: Bakersfield – A Fan-Created Tribute to a Timeless Franchise

As Xbox endures backlash for its recent overhaul and the effects it has triggered on its gaming studios, attention has shifted to Bethesda and its ambitions for cherished franchises. In the midst of this ambiguity, executive Todd Howard reassured supporters that essential titles like *The Elder Scrolls* would continue to prosper. Meanwhile, enthusiasm is surging for an entirely different venture—a fan-made mod that has attracted the interest of gamers globally: *Fallout: Bakersfield*.

#### A Trip Down Memory Lane to the Wasteland

*Fallout: Bakersfield* is a complete conversion mod for the legendary *Doom* engine, created by Denis and Alexander “Saur X” Berezin. Initially introduced about a year ago, this bold initiative aims to craft a one-of-a-kind experience set in the harsh, post-apocalyptic realm of *Fallout*, echoing the series’ origins in the 1990s. The mod vows to provide a nostalgic and intense gameplay experience that pays tribute to the original *Interplay* titles, employing stylistic elements that reflect the compressed media look of that time.

The Berezins report that *Fallout: Bakersfield* is approximately 60% finished, with a projected launch window as early as 2027. Players can look forward to thrilling action, merging the cherished role-playing aspects of *Fallout* with the swift pacing typical of classic first-person shooters.

#### An Innovative Development Strategy

What differentiates *Bakersfield* from other *Fallout* adaptations is its unconventional method toward the franchise. Rather than expanding upon the vast world design introduced in recent *Bethesda* offerings, this mod adopts a more direct, action-focused format reminiscent of games like *Duke Nukem 3D*. This approach revitalizes the *Fallout* experience with a vigor that many long-time fans yearn for.

This project is not unprecedented; the *Fallout* universe has witnessed a multitude of fan initiatives emerge over time, some achieving notable success while others encountering hurdles. Nevertheless, *Bakersfield* distinguishes itself for its artistic vision and dedication to recapturing the spirit of early *Fallout* games, highlighting the creativity and enthusiasm embedded in fan-driven endeavors.

#### The Strength of Fandom

Against the backdrop of Xbox’s present difficulties and the wider gaming industry landscape, *Fallout: Bakersfield* symbolizes a refreshing and inventive outlook. It emphasizes how fan projects can often rekindle the distinct attributes that endeared a franchise to its audience in the first place. Titles like *Bakersfield* and various other fan efforts, including *Sonic Mania*, illustrate that significant contributions to gaming can originate from passionate fans rather than being exclusively dependent on large corporate entities.

The excitement around *Bakersfield* not only highlights the community’s dedication to the *Fallout* series but also redefines the limits of what gaming can encompass. It reflects the notion that ownership and involvement in a franchise can stem from a variety of sources—frequently resulting in innovative ideas and captivating experiences that surpass the expectations established by conventional development routes.

#### Conclusion

As *Fallout: Bakersfield* prepares for its impending launch, it serves as a compelling reminder of the value of creativity and passion in gaming. While major corporations navigate their intricate challenges, indie and fan-driven creations continue to flourish, providing players with thrilling new opportunities to explore. As the gaming community unites around such projects, it is clear that genuine innovation often dwells within the hearts of dedicated fans rather than solely in corporate corporate offices.

### The Influence of Pokémon Go on Public Areas: An Insight Into a Cultural Trend

In July 2016, a remarkable convergence of technology, nostalgia, and urban exploration emerged with the debut of Pokémon Go, an augmented reality game that propelled millions of players into the streets to capture virtual beings. This trend was more than just a simple hobby; it fundamentally reshaped the dynamics of public areas, fostering interaction and engagement in unprecedented ways. The stage for this exploration was the historically rich town of Salem, Massachusetts, where inquisitive players traversed its streets, hunting for Pokémon while simultaneously uncovering history.

**An Evening in Salem**

Picture standing in front of the historic Gardner-Pingree House, once the scene of a horrific murder in 1830. The thrill of the ghost tour guide’s eerie tales was heightened by the thrill of spotting fictional entities like Gengar. This fusion of spectral history with Pokémon searching exemplifies the creative ways the game transformed public experiences. As players diligently scanned their surroundings, the emphasis shifted from simple tourism to a more interactive engagement with history, encouraging individuals to lift their eyes from their screens and appreciate the world around them.

**A Game of Discovery**

The influence of Pokémon Go considerably changed how individuals utilized public spaces. Tourists, immersed in the historical stories of Salem’s witch trials and narratives of Edgar Allan Poe, were frequently diverted by the search for elusive Pokémon. Even during a ghost tour, one-third of attendees wandered off, enticed by the virtual beings. This behavior encapsulated a societal shift wherein engaging with the real world could intertwine with the digital.

The game nurtured connections among players, creating shared experiences. Reports of groups of children gathering in unexpected locations, such as the steps of an abandoned church, illustrated how Pokémon Go promoted social interaction among strangers. Kids explored historical graveyards and narrow alleyways, drawn from their homes into the collective excitement of Pokémon hunting.

**Cultural Insights**

The phenomenon attracted considerable media attention, sparking discussions about its implications. Originally launched in the U.S. and Australia, much of the world looked on with envy, developing a desire to experience the mix of gaming and the physical world. For many, this was not merely a nostalgic return to a cherished franchise but also a commentary on modern social interactions and the reclamation of public spaces for engagement and play.

A broader cultural significance became apparent as the game endured even beyond its initial frenzy, adapting to user trends over the years. It initiated conversations about the impacts of technology on face-to-face interactions and public behavior. Pokémon Go highlighted how digital applications could nurture real-world connections, while also raising questions about privacy and the use of public spaces.

**Final Thoughts**

As Pokémon Go continues to progress, its initial influence on public spaces remains an intriguing examination of technology’s ability to redefine social interaction and cultural engagement. The unique experiences that emerged during its launch offered a perspective through which communities could recognize both the benefits and challenges presented by augmented reality. From historical sites in Salem to urban parks and hidden corners of neighborhoods, players ventured into a new domain of exploration that merged the past with a virtual future, creating a cultural moment that resonates even now.

**The Concealed Unveiling of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom**

In a sector where details frequently emerge ahead of planned announcements, *The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom* exemplifies an instance of confidentiality and astonishment. In sharp contrast to the forthcoming remake of *The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time* on the Nintendo Switch 2, the E3 2019 announcement of *Tears of the Kingdom* was enveloped in enigma. As stated by former Nintendo of America PR managers Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang, “fewer than 10 individuals” at Nintendo of America were cognizant of the game’s existence before the trailer was revealed.

Ellis and Yang, currently recognized for their YouTube channel, *Kit & Krysta*, provided insights into the operational dynamics of Nintendo and the astonishing degree of confidentiality surrounding *Tears of the Kingdom*. The duo highlighted that only a limited group, which included former Nintendo of America President Doug Bowser and several liaison personnel from Japan, were aware of the game’s existence. Interestingly, not even Ellis’s own superior had knowledge of the game’s announcement specifics prior to the reveal.

Ellis was chosen to be among the few due to his prior experience in PR and marketing for *The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild*. However, this “advantage” came with added accountability, as the secretive nature of the project considerably increased his workload. He remarked that as the E3 2019 date drew near, it became evident that there was significantly more for him to accomplish than initially anticipated, as he had to oversee communications for various teams while maintaining confidentiality.

The couple’s retelling of the announcement event uncovered surprising reactions; even Ellis’s superior was left astonished during the reveal, highlighting how tightly controlled the details were. This level of secrecy is uncommon in the current gaming environment where leaks are prevalent, often lessening the effect of major announcements. The anticipation surrounding *Tears of the Kingdom* illustrates how impactful and thrilling significant reveals can be when executed with expert surprise and expectation.

As fans look forward to the *Ocarina of Time* remake, it evokes a sense of nostalgia to reflect on how it would have felt to witness its announcement similarly to how *Tears of the Kingdom* amazed audiences. Would the same level of enthusiasm have been generated if revealed without prior leaks? This perspective on Nintendo’s management of *Tears of the Kingdom* highlights the distinctive combination of expectation and secrecy that can result in an unforgettable gaming experience.

### The Progression of Grand Theft Auto: A Modder’s Success Through Time

In the realm of video games, few franchises have made as lasting an impression as Rockstar’s *Grand Theft Auto* (GTA). From its beginning, each installment has expanded the horizons of narrative, gameplay mechanics, and open-world architecture. As excitement builds for the anticipated release of *Grand Theft Auto VI*, a modder known as Dryxio has taken a step back in time to present a creative way to revisit the past by enabling concurrent play of earlier GTA titles inside *Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas*.

#### A Unique Modification

Earlier this week, Dryxio captured the attention of the gaming world by unveiling an impressive mod that permits gamers to engage with *Grand Theft Auto III* through a television screen within *San Andreas*. Initially viewed as a light-hearted novelty, the mod rapidly showcased its remarkable capabilities, allowing players to run the full *GTA III* alongside *San Andreas* without any hitches. A corresponding video not only demonstrates this achievement but also emphasizes the immersive experience—merging two legendary games in real-time.

Further expanding the possibilities of this modding feature, Dryxio incorporated *Vice City* into the mix. In a subsequent video, the modder placed a gigantic flat-screen billboard within the game, allowing players to enjoy *Vice City* on an impressive virtual display within *GTA III*. Each title is presented as a continuous, real-time texture, displaying mission progress and save file functionalities, thereby creating a fantastical blend of all three games.

#### The Heritage of a Legendary Trilogy

This groundbreaking mod represents more than just technical skill; it honors the transformative impact of the earlier entries in the *GTA* series. Launched in the early 2000s, *GTA III*, *Vice City*, and *San Andreas* revolutionized the gaming landscape, creating vast, dynamic cities that felt alive and reactive. Each release marked a pivotal moment that not only advanced the sandbox genre but also elevated the expectations for developers and gamers, cementing Rockstar’s position as leaders in the industry.

This historical backdrop enhances the appreciation of Dryxio’s efforts, especially as the gaming community prepares for *GTA VI*. With a launch scheduled for November, anticipation is at an all-time high. The upcoming edition is set to utilize contemporary technology to create an even more immersive experience, building upon the foundational legacy established by its predecessors.

#### The Path Ahead in Gaming

As players look forward to the new *GTA*, the community reflects on the progression of gaming. The ability to run multiple *GTA* titles simultaneously within a single game exemplifies the strength of modding communities and the lasting impact of Rockstar’s designs. What began as an open-world, sandbox adventure has now transformed into intricate narratives and interconnected gameplay systems that challenge previous constraints of what was deemed achievable.

In summary, Dryxio’s mod is a testament to the rich legacy of the *Grand Theft Auto* franchise, while also showcasing the potential for creativity within the gaming community. As we await the next installment in the *GTA* narrative, we can enjoy the nostalgia and innovation that these mods provide, enabling us to revisit the past while eagerly anticipating an extraordinary future.