Gait Games

Careful, some of them will debuff you.

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Here we go. The picks of mine which made it into the advent calendar weren’t embarrassing enough, so now I get to flick a few extras at you like discarded bits of liquorice I’ve found down the back of the sofa. Open wide.

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**Diving into the Essence of Gaming: A Contemplation on Authenticity and Creativity**

In a recent conversation with *Rolling Stone*, artist Woodkid illuminated his partnership with esteemed game director Hideo Kojima for the score of *Death Stranding 2*. Woodkid shared a thought-provoking apprehension voiced by Kojima: “I’m going to be very honest, we have been testing the game with players and the results are too good. They like it too much. That means something is wrong; we have to change something… If everyone likes it, it means it’s mainstream.” This open reflection from Kojima highlights the conflict between artistic integrity and mass appeal, a challenge encountered by creators in diverse fields.

As a participant and consumer of culture, this quote strikes a chord. Creations devoid of integrity often feel excessively polished, crafted merely to satisfy the crowd. While proficient design and accessibility hold significance, a work ought to evoke authentic emotions and stimulate contemplation, rather than just cater to ease. The essence of art resides not in its adherence but in its capacity to confront and inspire.

This year, I had the chance to immerse myself in several games, resulting in a modest compilation of five standout experiences. This is not a commentary on the overall caliber of gaming this year but rather a testament to my restricted time spent with them, as I sought to harmonize my involvement with other media and interpersonal connections.

### Honorable Mention: *Death Stranding 2*

The initial *Death Stranding* continues to be among my favorites, a pioneering experience that made a significant impression. In contrast, *Death Stranding 2*, despite Kojima’s worries regarding mainstream acceptance, feels more cautious and traditional. Familiar combat mechanics dominate, eclipsing the environmental tension that made the first installment distinct. Nevertheless, the game still presents memorable instances, like the delightful surprise of uncovering an unforeseen hot spring and an unexpected narrative twist towards the conclusion, reminiscent of Kojima’s creative leaps.

### Honorable Mention: *Avowed*

Obsidian’s *Avowed* captivates with its unique world echoing *Morrowind*, fostering exploration and unexpected revelations. The narrative, molded by player decisions, adds considerable depth, tackling significant themes while acknowledging its mid-budget constraints. It illustrates the importance of varied gaming experiences, proving mid-budget titles continue to hold relevance in an advancing industry.

### #5: *Absolum*

Following the acclaim of *Streets of Rage 4*, *Absolum* presents a fantasy beat ‘em up featuring roguelike elements, effectively blending genres and delivering both engrossing lore and lively gameplay. The vibrant art style conjures nostalgic sensations akin to classic animated fantasy, ensuring each encounter feels invigorating, whether it’s the player’s first or twentieth attempt.

### #4: *Despelote*

*Despelote* provides a heartfelt journey of passion, focusing on Julián, an Ecuadorian boy captivated by soccer during the 2002 World Cup qualifiers. The game artfully merges soccer with daily life, encapsulating the cultural importance of the sport without extensive exposition. It showcases how particularity in storytelling can cultivate connection, drawing emotional reactions even from those unfamiliar with its context.

### #3: *Terminator 2D: No Fate*

Inspired by the thrilling excitement of James Cameron’s film, *No Fate* stands out as one of the premier arcade-style run-and-gun games. While some may criticize its short duration, its pacing and design culminate in a gratifying experience that promotes replayability, highlighting refined controls and engaging level design.

### #2: *Blippo+*

*Blippo+* rekindles the serendipitous delight of childhood television exploration, offering a diverse array of programs reflecting an alien culture on the verge of transformation. Its charming visuals and narrative richness create a compelling experience, suggesting that true connection and understanding can arise from unforeseen interactions.

### #1: *Shadow Labyrinth*

In *Shadow Labyrinth*, players are immersed in an animated world that unfolds with delightful unpredictability. The game discards traditional design principles, encouraging players to explore without the frequent guidance typical of mainstream titles. It captures the spirit of discovery, reviving the joy of immersive gameplay, where the conventions of character progression and world-building are challenged, allowing for artistic freedom and personality.

Ultimately, from Kojima’s apprehensions regarding mainstream acceptance to the developers’ decisions in *Shadow Labyrinth*, the conversation around gaming persistently challenges standards and inspires. This year has reaffirmed that the heart of excellent game design resides in the courage to take chances, embrace ambiguity, and nurture authentic experiences that resonate beyond simple entertainment.

### Enhance Your Listening Journey with Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones

An outstanding set of headphones can radically change how you enjoy your beloved music. If you’re interested in acquiring headphones that reliably deliver exceptional sound quality coupled with efficient noise cancellation, the **Sony WH-1000XM5 Premium Noise Canceling Headphones** represent a fantastic option.

At present, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones can be found for **$248** on Amazon, reduced from their usual price of **$399.99**—a savings of **$151.99** (almost 39%). If you’re in pursuit of remarkable audio fidelity, this pricing makes them indispensable.

#### An Incredible Pair of Headphones for Every Listener

One of the initial features you’ll observe about the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones is their comfort. Crafted with plush ear cushions and a lightweight design, these headphones are ideal for extended listening periods. The headband incorporates adjustable arms, allowing you to discover the perfect fit for your head, ensuring you remain comfortable even after lengthy use.

Regarding sound performance, the WH-1000XM5 headphones shine. They deliver rich, nuanced, and balanced audio—offering substantial bass that complements rather than overshadows mids and highs, with sharp and clear vocals. Whether indulging in orchestral compositions, hip-hop tracks, or podcasts, these headphones provide a genuine and immersive audio experience that’s challenging to equal within this price range.

#### State-of-the-Art Noise Cancellation Technology

A key highlight of the Sony WH-1000XM5 is their **active noise cancellation**. Leveraging multiple microphones and pioneering noise-canceling technology, these headphones effectively cut out background noise—from voices to traffic sounds—enabling you to concentrate solely on your audio content at a safe volume.

Moreover, the sound configurations of the Sony WH-1000XM5 can be tailored through a companion app. Users can personalize their listening experience by fine-tuning the equalizer, adjusting the noise cancellation level, and saving preferences to make the headphones feel uniquely theirs.

#### Conclusion

The Sony WH-1000XM5 Premium Noise Canceling Headphones provide exceptional sound quality, unparalleled noise cancellation, and a comfortable design, making them perfect for everyday listening and travel. With the current discounted price, they’re a worthwhile investment for anyone aiming to elevate their music enjoyment. Seize the chance to own a pair of these remarkable headphones.

You don’t need to shell out thousands for a new laptop, particularly if you’re only in need of a basic machine for casual tasks and home activities. If you’re in the market for one today, we have some excellent news.

Amazon has lowered the price of the 14-inch HP laptop in Silver to just $300, after slashing a significant 35% off its regular price. Your order will include a complimentary 8-in-1 hub, along with a one-year subscription to Microsoft Office 365; both of which enhance the current deal. It’s among the lowest prices we have seen for this model, but as you might expect, the discount won’t last long. Be sure to grab it quickly.

### Good Performance for Everyday Activities

This laptop isn’t a powerhouse. It’s suitable for home use like straightforward browsing, streaming, video calls, and basic work tasks. It’s a solid choice for seniors wanting their own device or children just beginning their tech journey. You’re getting a simple 14-inch HD display that provides adequate visuals for all your requirements. The anti-glare feature makes it gentle on the eyes and ensures picture quality remains steady across various lighting conditions. You can comfortably watch the screen in daylight as well as in reduced light.

The 4GB DDR4 RAM isn’t designed for intense multitasking, but it effectively keeps everything running smoothly, provided you’re not pushing creative limits. There’s 128GB of flash storage, nicely complemented with a 128GB Micro SD, giving you a total of 256GB space to keep all your files, content, and applications. That’s ample space for storing hundreds of photos, videos, movies, and songs. Power is supplied by the 4-core Intel N150 processor, reaching up to 3.6 GHz with Intel Turbo Boost Technology.

Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4, while ports such as USB Type-C (10Gbps), two USB Type-A, HDMI 1.4b, and an SD card reader simplify connections to other devices. Windows 11 S comes pre-installed, so the laptop will be ready for use straight out of the box. The standout feature here is the one-year subscription to Microsoft 365 Office, granting you access to premium applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, OneDrive, Teams, and more. This subscription usually costs around $100 yearly, but you’re receiving it here completely free!

All in all, if you’ve been wanting to purchase a new everyday laptop for regular use, this Amazon deal lets you secure one at a fabulous price. It’s not built for heavy-duty tasks, creative projects, or gaming, but it’s designed for essential use, and it performs that role quite well. Placing your orders now will help ensure they arrive before Christmas, making it an ideal surprise for someone special. Plus, shipping is complimentary, so $300 is all you need to pay today.

We eight scribes from RPS are,
Bearing jokes, we wrote in the past,
Christmas crackers, god we’re knackered,
After twelve months of graft.

O, reader of wonder, loved the most,
Why not subscribe to Supporters posts?
January leading, still proceeding,
See you once we’ve munched our roasts.

But first, time to enjoy your lovely joke!

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**Compact, Yet Mighty: The ACEMAGIC Mini PC**

If desk space is a concern but you still require robust performance, there’s no need to sacrifice your entire workspace for a conventional tower PC. A compact, high-capacity mini PC such as the ACEMAGIC Mini PC serves as an ideal solution. It’s designed for students, professionals, and anyone seeking a powerful system without the heft. Currently, it’s available at a 30% discount on Amazon, allowing you to save as much as $257. The new price stands at $599, reduced from the original $856.

In spite of its small footprint, the ACEMAGIC Mini PC delivers impressive performance. Encased in its stylish design, it boasts 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, powered by an Intel Core i9 13900HK processor with integrated graphics. If you require additional storage or memory, the system enables you to upgrade both. You can expand storage up to 4TB with a compatible SSD and increase RAM to 64GB to cater to your evolving demands.

This mini PC excels at everyday activities such as web browsing, document editing, creative endeavors, and even some casual gaming. The 32GB of RAM facilitates seamless multitasking, ensuring that applications operate smoothly and efficiently side-by-side. Furthermore, it comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro, allowing you to dive straight into work without the hassle of setup or additional configurations.

For those seeking outstanding display capabilities, the ACEMAGIC Mini PC can support 4K resolution at 60Hz. You are able to connect up to three monitors via the HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB4 Type-C port. This configuration allows for adaptable multi-monitor setups without the need for a separate docking station.

In terms of connectivity, the mini PC includes built-in Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 4.2, ensuring rapid and stable internet access, as well as effortless pairing with devices like mice, keyboards, and headphones. Additionally, there are two USB 3.2 ports located at the front (alongside the USB4 Type-C port) and four more USB ports on the rear, providing ample options for peripherals.

Thermal management is also expertly designed. The ACEMAGIC Mini PC incorporates a dual fan cooling system to regulate temperatures. It can maintain a cool environment while ensuring quiet operation.

Thus, if you’re in search of a compact, fully-equipped computer, the ACEMAGIC Mini PC is a superb option. With the ongoing 32% discount, the highest-end model is currently offered at just $599 for a limited duration. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or establishing a clean and efficient workspace, this mini PC might be exactly what you require.

### Anker HDMI Switch Now Offered at 38% Discount on Amazon

Seize the opportunity to take advantage of a remarkable discount as Amazon reduces the price of the Anker HDMI switch by 38%, bringing it down from $16 to merely $10. This deal offers a savings of six dollars, presenting an ideal moment to enhance your home entertainment system.

#### The Challenge of Restricted Inputs

For those who recall the difficulties of older TV systems, the annoyance of restricted inputs can resonate deeply. Previously, linking multiple gaming consoles or devices to one TV could become a tedious endeavor. Many people, especially those who enjoyed retro gaming on consoles like the NES, will remember the chore of physically changing cables behind the TV to fit various devices. The ease of current technology was a far-off wish for many.

#### A Modern Home Solution

Luckily, the Anker HDMI switch is crafted to solve this exact problem. This gadget includes two HDMI inputs and one output, enabling you to connect multiple devices with ease. Just plug your gaming consoles, streaming gadgets, or even a laptop into the Anker switch and attach the output to your TV, allowing you to effortlessly switch between devices with just the press of a button. Bid farewell to the hassle of tangled wires or the awkward task of reaching behind your TV.

#### Compatibility and Functionality

The Anker HDMI switch is highly compatible, accommodating a wide array of devices, including laptops, PCs, Xbox consoles, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and streaming sticks like Fire TV or Roku. The output can link to various display devices such as TVs, monitors, projectors, and even HDMI-compatible VR headsets.

In terms of performance, the switch supports resolutions up to 4K and refresh rates at 60Hz. However, if you’re intending to utilize high-frame rates, such as those available on the PlayStation 5 Pro at 120fps, you might prefer a direct connection to your TV’s native HDMI inputs. Moreover, the Anker HDMI switch does not support HDMI CEC, a feature that facilitates communication and control between devices, allowing for simultaneous power-up of your TV and console.

#### Conclusion

If you find it challenging to cope with insufficient HDMI inputs or continuously switching cables, the Anker HDMI switch presents a straightforward and effective solution to improve your entertainment experience. With its current price of $10 on Amazon, there’s no more opportune moment to invest in your home setup.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6623/)

Most anticipated? Oh reader, you gentle, innocent child. Hark at you, ambling in here with supple joints, eyes clear as springwater, and the scent of hope in your hair. I have grown old, dear reader. I no longer feel this emotion called “anticipation”, anymore than I remember the taste of strawberries in the Shire. Years of waiting for another Legacy of Kain game have broken my spirit. My heart is a sponge of sorrow. My beard coils round my ankles like a listless cat. All has become grey.

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**ChatGPT’s Sponsored Advertising Controversy, Gaming Releases, and Cultural Highlights**

As we approach the end of 2025, the gaming community is abuzz with updates spanning from AI advancements to much-anticipated game launches. In this concluding edition of Kotaku’s Morning Checkpoint, we delve into the latest happenings that have garnered excitement and, in certain instances, sparked concern among fans and industry veterans alike.

### ChatGPT’s Sponsored Advertising Controversy

A report from **The Information** indicates that OpenAI might be considering the implementation of sponsored advertisements within the ChatGPT platform. This shift could transform how users engage with AI, stirring ethical dilemmas surrounding trust and promotion. A hypothetical situation proposes that when users inquire about ibuprofen dosages, they may instead be presented with an Advil advertisement, raising alarms that the AI could evolve into a monetized search tool.

An OpenAI representative commented, “As ChatGPT’s capabilities expand and its usage grows, we’re exploring ways to provide greater intelligence to everyone… Users have a trusted relationship with ChatGPT, and any strategy implemented would be designed to uphold that trust.”

### League of Legends Fighting Game Launching Soon

Riot Games enthusiasts will be excited to know that the long-awaited **League of Legends** fighting game, named **2XKO**, is set to debut on January 20, 2026. Following a successful early access launch on PC in October, console players can look forward to its release on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.

### River City Ransom: Underground Faces Delisting

In a noteworthy update for beat ‘em up aficionados, **River City Ransom: Underground** is at risk of being removed from Steam due to an expired licensing agreement. According to the developer’s confirmation, images and gameplay trailers have already been taken down from its store page, but current users can still find the game in their libraries.

### Atlus Takes a Cautious Approach with Metaphor: Refantazio

Director Katsura Hashino offered insights regarding the ongoing development of the next entry in the **Metaphor: Refantazio** series. Stressing a measured strategy, Hashino conveyed that they plan to build on the game’s core values rather than hastily produce a sequel, hinting at a deliberate development approach underway.

### The Mega Man Reveal at The Game Awards 2025

A behind-the-scenes account from Geoff Keighley illustrates how the announcement of a new **Mega Man** game was executed at The Game Awards. After a visit to Capcom headquarters, he witnessed the reveal firsthand, feeling the excitement and nostalgia that the cherished franchise generates. This moment has sparked renewed eagerness among fans anticipating the next steps for the iconic series.

### Cultural Highlights

From examining sponsored AI interactions to the eagerly awaited launches of new games and nostalgic unveilings, 2025 has marked a significant year for gaming. With ongoing conversations surrounding the validity of the “solo dev” narrative and its ramifications for the industry, 2026 is poised to delve deeper into these discussions. Stay tuned as we continue to traverse the shifting terrain of gaming and technology, ensuring fans remain central to these conversations.

In conclusion, this summary captures a thrilling period in the gaming sphere, with each story adding to the rich fabric of gaming culture and its overlaps with technology. As we venture into 2026, the eagerness and dialogues around these subjects are sure to persist.