Gait Games

### Summer Games Done Quick 2024: A Festival of Speedrunning for Charity

Twice yearly, Games Done Quick (GDQ) converts a hotel ballroom into a lively center of video game speedrunning, uniting gamers and fans to generate millions for charity. This year, Summer Games Done Quick (SGDQ) is scheduled from July 6th to 11th at the Minneapolis Hilton, maintaining its tradition of fusing entertainment with philanthropy. The event is celebrated not only for its remarkable speedruns but also for its distinct variety show vibe, showcasing everything from scientific presentations to the adored speedrunning dogs.

SGDQ’s newly unveiled schedule offers an exhilarating array of both innovative and nostalgic titles. Among the highlights, the lauded game _Clair Obscur: Expedition 33_, recently awarded at the Game Awards, will act as the grand finale. This represents the RPG’s second showing at GDQ, following a triumphant performance at the winter event, and it will be displayed in a premier position typically reserved for classic favorites.

Along with _Clair Obscur_, newly launched games like _Pragmata_, _Saros_, and _Mouse: PI for Hire_ will be debuting, allowing viewers to witness the inception of speedruns with fresh titles. Nostalgia will also hold sway as cult classics such as _Snowboard Kids_ and _The Chaos Engine_ finally shine in the limelight.

Veteran GDQ viewers can anticipate a collection of beloved fan-favorites, featuring randomized runs for _The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker_ and _Kingdom Hearts 2_, alongside races for _Spyro: Year of the Dragon_, _Wario World_, and even the whimsical _Mr. Bones_. The event will present a wide spectrum of genres, from kaizo runs in _Mario_ to cherished titles like _Hollow Knight_ and _Metroid_. Viewers can also look forward to a ‘garbage block’ segment showcasing notorious titles such as _Sonic Schoolhouse_, _Mega Man_’s DOS version, and _Zelda: Wand of Gamelon_.

SGDQ is more than just a gaming occasion; it serves as a platform for charitable contributions, with all proceeds benefiting Doctors Without Borders. The initiative originated in 2010 as part of MAGFest and has since blossomed into one of the most awaited and cherished gaming events of the year.

As GDQ has progressed, it has integrated increasingly elaborate entertainment components into its schedule. Memorable instances, such as interpretive dance performances during _Truck Simulator_ runs or inventive methods to circumvent copyright strikes featuring live bands playing _Crazy Taxi_’s music, have transformed the classic speedrunning experience. Nevertheless, the event has also encountered hurdles, including scandals linked to cheating allegations, cultural adaptations, and safety issues within the community. Ongoing efforts aim to nurture a more inclusive atmosphere, with programs designed to tackle harassment and encourage an open environment for all participants.

In conclusion, Summer Games Done Quick 2024 promises to be a celebration of gaming, speedrunning, and community spirit, all while raising funds for a worthy cause. Whether you’re a casual spectator or a speedrunning enthusiast, this year’s event guarantees to provide something for everyone.

**The Development of Competitive Play in Super Smash Bros. 64: RMG-K and Rollback Netcode**

The realm of competitive gaming has undergone considerable growth over the years, especially within the fighting game genre. Among these, *Super Smash Bros.*, first launched on the Nintendo 64, occupies a unique spot in the nostalgia of numerous gamers who fondly remember classic gameplay. Yet, until recently, competitive players encountered restricted methods for enjoying this legendary title without the pitfalls of traditional options like local play or lag-prone emulators.

### The Issue of Delay-Based Netcode

For an extended period, competitive gaming, particularly in fighting games, has been affected by the constraints of delay-based netcode. This kind of network structure adds latency, creating a desynchronization of actions between players contingent on their connection speeds. In fighting games, where split-second decisions can determine match outcomes, even slight lag can drastically impact gameplay. Players frequently experience performing an action only to encounter a delayed reaction, resulting in a frustrating experience filled with missed chances and imbalanced advantages.

### Introducing RMG-K: A Revolutionary Update for N64 Multiplayer

Fortunately, a fresh alternative has surfaced in the shape of [RMG-K](https://github.com/Jay-Day/RMG-K), a branch of the original RMG Nintendo 64 emulator. With its recent update on May 14, 2023, RMG-K incorporates rollback netcode support not only for *Super Smash Bros.*, but for all multiplayer Nintendo 64 titles. This development promises to transform how players engage in competitive smash matches.

Rollback netcode represents a significant enhancement over its delay-based predecessor by enabling the game to anticipate player inputs. If the prediction fails, the game reverts to the prior frame, guaranteeing smoother gameplay. This results in an experience where players can interact free from the oppressive weight of latency, even when utilizing wireless connections.

### Principal Contributors to RMG-K

The creation of the rollback feature was a team effort spearheaded by Jay-Day, the original creator of the RMG fork, with significant contributions from NyxTheShield, who has also gained recognition as a skilled composer for notable fan series inspired by *Undertale*. NyxTheShield’s participation emphasizes the blend of gaming culture, programming, and artistry, illustrating how varied interests can lead to technological breakthroughs in the gaming field.

### Community Feedback and Upcoming Testing

As the distribution of RMG-K commences, the community’s attention appears mainly directed towards *Super Smash Bros.* fans, complicating the evaluation of rollback netcode effectiveness across the full spectrum of Nintendo 64 games. However, initial feedback from users indicates favorable experiences with titles like *Mario Tennis*, hinting that the framework is robust and may eventually cater to a wider array of classic multiplayer experiences.

### Conclusion

The launch of RMG-K signifies a crucial moment for gamers who value the original *Super Smash Bros.* and its associated competitive scenes. By harnessing rollback netcode, players gain a more fluid and enjoyable experience that respects the fast-paced essence of fighting games. As the community continues to investigate the potential of this groundbreaking emulator, it is poised to influence the future of multiplayer gaming on classic platforms, possibly rekindling interest in a variety of cherished titles beyond merely *Super Smash Bros.*. As technology progresses, the nostalgia of the past can effortlessly merge with the demands of modern competitive gaming, ensuring that classics stay relevant in today’s gaming environment.

There’s something about prying open the door of your majestic Ferrari 250 California or Reliant Supervan as waves gently lap against the shore off to your right and a blazing sun beats down on you from above that you don’t truly appreciate until it’s gone. Or, at least, that’s what I’ve found playing Forza Horizon 6.

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Sundays are for rooting out clothes moths. The wool-devouring bastards have started cropping up all over my flat. I’ve put traps down but that’s only dealing with the ones which have already hatched and taken flight. I need to work out where they’re coming from.

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Back in late 2024, Palestinian developer Rasheed Abueideh announced Dreams on a Pillow, a “pseudo-stealth adventure game.” It’s set during the Nakba, the 1948 ethnic cleansing that saw Israel violently displacing Palestinians and dispossessing their land and homes, serving as Abueideh’s emotional response to the attacks on Gaza that began in 2023. And now, as a second round of funding continues, a first look at gameplay has been offered up.

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The first thought that probably arose for most people upon seeing Mixtape for the first time was probably something along the lines of, “that’s a lot of licensed music, wonder how long it takes before it’s delisted.” Music licensing is notoriously a pain in the ass, and considering how embedded into the story every song that’s in the game is, it certainly seemed like Mixtape was doomed. But according to its devs, there’s nothing to worry about.

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Next week, the garage doors will swing open for *Forza Horizon 6*. The highly anticipated new installment in the open-world motorsport series spans a vast map inspired by Japan’s natural scenery and the sprawling urban landscape of Tokyo. Like its predecessors, the new racing events and stunt modes draw from the culture of its setting, often resulting in outrageous outcomes. Japan’s rich history of robotics and mech culture brings *Forza* to one inevitable conclusion: giant robot racing.

In the “Mech My Day” competition, *Forza Horizon 6* puts you behind the wheel of a Honda Acura, going head-to-head with “Chaser Zero,” a massive robot that is part Gundam and part Patlabor. This racing spectacle echoes the time FOX had Shawn Crawford race 100 meters against a giraffe; players must tear up the asphalt to keep pace with a robot barreling through overpasses. While it may seem like the odds are against the player, the robot turns out to be quite the good sport during the final stretch of the race.

*Forza Horizon*’s showcase events are usually the most extravagant races in the game, pitting luxurious vehicles against severe weather elements or powerful machines. In *Forza Horizon 5*, set in Mexico, players raced against stunt aircraft and hot air balloons. While some players might not be up against the Shinkansen in *Forza Horizon 6*—leading to complaints about the scarcity of showcase events—it appears players will be honing their skills against an even more bizarre feat of futuristic engineering.

*Forza Horizon 6* is turning out to be a dependable addition to the franchise. The more accessible *Horizon* series has largely overshadowed the primary motorsport simulator, making way for elevated levels of eccentricity. Moving away from the traditional route, players can explore the vast Japanese landscape at their own pace or execute stunts akin to *Jackass*, featuring cars that only Jay Leno could dream of owning. Just be sure not to disturb the cherry blossom trees.

A concept that quite genuinely keeps me up at night is the idea of waking up one day and every other person on Earth disappearing. Couldn’t possibly tell you where this fear of mine stems from, all I can say is that I would imagine such a reality to be a cosmically nightmarish one. Enter Sleepover, a post-apocalyptic cosmic-horror visual novel that sees in that exact fear of mine, the key difference being that its protagonist isn’t alone after all.

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# Dodi Repacks: The Conclusion of a Chapter in Game Piracy

Dodi Repacks, the renowned figure in the world of game piracy, has recently stirred up the community with a momentous announcement: he is reducing his activities to start a new phase of life. In an unexpected “Roadmap” update, Dodi disclosed his intentions to marry and pursue a career in law, reminiscent of the fictional attorney Saul Goodman. This disclosure has left piracy fans in shock.

## An In-Depth Look at Dodi

Dodi has established a unique identity within the online piracy community, ranking as the second most well-known repacker of pirated games, just behind the notorious FitGirl. While both individuals maintain their real identities in secrecy, Dodi’s willingness to share certain aspects of his existence differentiates him. His website, operational since 2018, functions not only as a site for his repacks but also as a personal blog where he shares glimpses into his life.

In his open posts, Dodi has revealed information about his past, including his life in Egypt and an early fascination with compression technology that led him into the repacking arena. He has also courageously faced health issues, including a rare blood condition that almost claimed his life in May 2023.

## The Genuine Link with Followers

Dodi’s readiness to disclose personal details signifies a stronger bond with his followers, whom he endearingly refers to as his “family.” This connection is clear in the encouraging comments he garners, showcasing the reciprocal admiration between Dodi and his community. However, as he embarks on a new journey toward marriage and a legal profession, the nature of this relationship is poised to evolve.

## Significant Milestones Ahead

In a blog entry dated May 16, Dodi identified 2026 as a crucial year. He detailed his future aspirations, including final exams from May 18 to June 11, a promising job opportunity in France, and his impending marriage on November 24. Dodi assured his followers that although he would stay connected, his engagement would not match previous levels.

The news has sparked a range of feelings within the community, especially on the subreddit r/PiratedGames, where members voiced their sadness yet supported Dodi’s personal choices. The irony that Dodi, who is now heading toward a legal career, might eventually find himself representing individuals from the very domain to which he belongs has not gone unnoticed.

## Conclusion

Dodi Repacks’ announcement signifies an important milestone in the world of game piracy. As he prepares to step away from his repacking endeavors for his new life as a spouse and aspiring lawyer, the community contemplates the departure of one of its dearest figures. His journey is a reflection of the personal paths within underground subcultures and the intricate connections that can emerge from these groups. While it is uncertain how his transition will affect the piracy landscape, one point remains clear: Dodi’s legacy will persist, and his followers will continue to support him as he starts this new chapter.

There is a horse in the middle of the field. It wants to escape, run free, to graze upon the grass where it thinks it is greener. The horse knows not of the dangers of the outside world, for it is simply a horse. So what must we do? We must put up enclosures to form a pasture for the horse, yet we only have so many walls to use, so we must be choosy. This, more or less, is enclose.horse, a daily puzzle game where you must stop a horse from running away to eat grass.

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