Gait Games

**The Return to School Brings a Wave of Video Game Releases**

As the summer comes to an end and kids return to their classrooms, the autumn video game launch period ramps up. This week’s significant releases feature Capcom’s highly anticipated *Onimusha: Way of the Sword* and Rebel Wolves’ more somber action-RPG *The Blood of Dawnwalker*. Yet, in addition to these prominent titles, a few indie games are garnering attention that warrant mention.

**Notable Indie Highlights**

Topping the list is *Isle of Reveries*, a top-down action-adventure game inspired by the cherished *The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening*. This metroidvania offers an immersive experience with eight unique overworld biomes and seven dungeons, each with its own distinct puzzles and items. While it may not achieve the same acclaim as Yacht Club’s *Mina The Hollower*, it certainly draws interest with its delightful visuals and gameplay mechanics.

Another captivating indie entry is *Aegis Force: The Scorian War*, a tactical RPG featuring an eye-catching 2.5D HD-2D art style. Taking cues from classic titles like *Shining Force II* and *Fire Emblem*, players will traverse a fantasy world caught in a struggle between technology and magic. For enthusiasts of tactical gameplay and unique artistic style, this title is one to keep an eye on.

**Noteworthy Releases This Week**

Here’s a thorough rundown of key game launches set for this week:

**Monday, August 31**
– Breathedge 2 (Early Access) | PC
– Aegis Force: The Scorian War (Early Access) | PC
– Sucker for Love: Crush Landing | PC
– Serious Sam: Shatterverse | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC

**Tuesday, September 1**
– Crimson Moon | PC
– Knuckle Jet | PC
– Aerial_Knight’s MrFreezy | PC
– WheelMates | PC
– Not Quite Dead: Open World Survival (Early Access) | PC
– Zad Archery | PC

**Wednesday, September 2**
– BOMBANANA! | PC
– Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault (1.0 release) | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, PC
– Emery Hearts | PC
– Tyr (Early Access) | PC
– ShipShaper: Falconeer Chronicles (Early Access) | PC

**Thursday, September 3**
– The Blood of Dawnwalker | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
– BioEden | PC
– Avatar Legends: The Fighting Game (Port) | Xbox Series X/S
– Exstetra (Port) | PS5, Switch 2, Switch
– Donutal | PC
– Orbitals | Switch 2
– SpeedRunners 2: King of Speed | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, PC
– Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition (Port) | Switch 2
– SpeedRunners 2: King of Speed | PC

**Friday, September 4**
– Onimusha: Way of the Sword | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, PC
– NBA 2K27 | PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, PC
– Dungeon Settlers | PC
– Scavland | PC
– Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Arcade: Wrath of the Mutants – Ninja Edition (Port) | Switch 2
– My Hero Academia: All’s Justice (Port) | Switch 2
– Phantom of Inferno Nitro Archive (Port) | PC
– Isle of Reveries | PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Switch, PC

The autumn gaming season is poised to be an exhilarating time for gamers, with a varied assortment of titles and engaging gameplay experiences on the way. Stay alert for these releases and prepare to dive into your next gaming journey!

While scammers and other ne’er-do-wells leaning into the allure of playing GTA 6 as part of their efforts to spread malware isn’t anything new – cybersecurity companies have been issuing warnings about it for months – there appears to have been an uptick in such behaviour following the latest GTA 6 leak. With speculation rampant as to what exactly the hackers known as Cyberleek may have access to, now is not the time to be downloading any files claiming to be GTA 6.

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At a certain moment on August 29, approximately 13 terabytes of Steam depot data became available online. This may very well be the largest leak related to video games ever, as it encompasses prototype builds for an astonishing number of games, including multiple first-party Valve releases such as *Portal 2*, *Counter-Strike: Global Offensive*, and *Left 4 Dead 2*.

The complete extent of the materials contained within the “Steam2” leak is challenging to assess at this time, as the process of cataloging its contents is still in progress. The depot files range from 2003 to 2013, and the nearly 13-terabyte torrent file includes builds of both third-party games and Valve’s own first-party offerings.

### Half-Life Content

Although no playable builds of *Half-Life 3* or *Half-Life 2: Episode 3* were found, the leak does feature some *Half-Life* content. A notable find is a model for the “weaponizer” gun from *Half-Life 2: Episode 3*, along with references to other weapon types like the “icegun” and “flamethrower.” The weaponizer model is present in the *Portal 2* prototype build, acting as a placeholder for the discarded Paint Gun.

### The *Portal 2* Prototypes

The leak contains at least two prototype builds of *Portal 2*. The 2009 iteration is rough, showcasing early concept art and unfinished cutscenes. For example, an early variant of the game’s introductory sequence has surfaced, revealing ideas that were not implemented in the final game. The 2010 build, on the other hand, shows functioning versions of three discarded mechanics: Adhesive Gel, the Paint Gun, and a slow-motion feature. These mechanics were previously known but never seen in action, making their discovery especially exciting for fans.

### Early *Counter-Strike: Global Offensive* Builds

At least three distinct prototype builds of *Counter-Strike: Global Offensive* have been spotted, likely as work-in-progress versions for PS3 and Xbox 360. These builds feature discarded models, a cleaner version of the HUD, and even “family guy ragdoll physics.” However, the most fascinating aspect seems to be the discarded maps, which draw inspiration from *Left 4 Dead* maps, suggesting a possible gameplay crossover that was never realized in the final product.

### *Left 4 Dead 2*

For *Left 4 Dead 2*, there seem to be at least two prototype builds, although they are glitchy and crash at various intervals. Nonetheless, they include enjoyable discoveries like enhanced jump mechanics and placeholder audio that adds a humorous touch. Importantly, many *Left 4 Dead* maps are included, allowing players to engage with them alongside *Left 4 Dead 2’s* survivors.

### Valve’s Canceled F-Stop

F-Stop, an unfinished prequel to *Portal*, was part of Valve’s “Directed Design Experiments” in 2007. Though no playable version of *F-Stop* has leaked, several assets have been uncovered within *Portal 2* prototypes. A placeholder version of Cave Johnson’s dialogue related to capturing images with the “Aperture Science Spirit Camera” has also surfaced, underscoring how aspects from this shelved project may have impacted *Portal 2*.

As fans continue to delve into the *Steam2* leak, further findings and insights are anticipated to emerge in the weeks ahead.

We Happy Few and South of Midnight developers Compulsion Games have announced that they are fully broken up with Microsoft and Xbox, after completing a management buyout. They now once again own the rights to all their own original intellectual properties. Amongst other things, this means that you can buy South of Midnight – summarised by Brendy (RPS in peace) as “a beautiful folkloric tale” and a “plain and unambitious” action-adventure – while still taking part in the BDS boycott against Microsoft’s Israeli military connections. When you buy the Steam version of South of Midnight, all your money (after Valve’s revenue cut) will go to Compulsion.

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**Comprehending the Consequences of California’s Forthcoming Digital Game Ownership Legislation and Sony’s Legal Issues**

As the digital gaming ecosystem advances, so does the legal framework governing consumer rights and ownership. A notable transformation is expected in 2025 when California’s new statute—termed AB 2426—takes effect. This law seeks to enforce clearer communication concerning the nature of digital game acquisitions, ensuring that consumers recognize that they are not obtaining ownership of the games but rather licenses for usage.

At present, Sony is involved in a proposed class action lawsuit that questions the company’s disclosure practices concerning digital game ownership for its PlayStation 5 (PS5) platform. Plaintiffs assert that Sony has not sufficiently informed consumers that buying a digital game does not mean they own the product wholly. Instead, players receive a license to access the game under specific terms set by the company.

In its defense, Sony argues that it is unreasonable for consumers to assume they are gaining ownership of a digital game. The company noted that, in its most recent court filing, the transactional nature of digital sales is clearly stated in the terms of service, implying that consumers should be cognizant of their purchasing rights. Sony specifically mentioned an instance involving the game *Resident Evil Requiem*, indicating that if a consumer genuinely owned the game, it would not be feasible for another customer to purchase it later.

At the heart of this lawsuit is California’s mandate for a “clear and conspicuous” warning label on digital game sales. This label is intended to convey the idea that digital games can be revoked at any moment. The class action suit underscores a broader concern that many consumers are unaware of the non-ownership status of their digital acquisitions—a situation exacerbated by the fact that terms of service are frequently overlooked or disregarded.

The resolution of this legal conflict may depend on whether the case moves to arbitration or persists in court. If the lawsuit progresses, it could necessitate Sony and other gaming companies to reassess how they label their digital products, possibly resulting in alterations to the purchase terminology, such as substituting “Buy” with “Acquire a digital license.”

The stakes are further heightened by Sony’s recent announcement that it will halt production of new game discs for its upcoming PS6 console. This choice indicates a departure from physical game ownership, underscoring a future where digital licensing could become the standard model for video game distribution. Recently, Sony also communicated with players, reiterating the clear fact that digital ownership—unlike physical ownership—is a myth.

As digital gaming continues its upward trend, consumers, regulators, and corporations like Sony grapple with the implications of these changes. Thus, the California law represents not merely a regulatory necessity but a crucial moment in how digital rights are understood and managed in the gaming industry going forward.

Among Shadows is the kind of videogame genre arithmetic that often proves less than the sum of its parts, but I’m cautiously enthused by its talk of disease, betrayal and Elden Ring: Nightreign-flavoured swordwizarding. The gist: this is a fantasy action-RPG with an Among Us-style social deduction element. You are a member of the Order of the Secret Fire, sent into a supernaturally blighted region to track down sources of corruption, while looting gear and levelling yourself up.

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**Investigating the Debate Surrounding Nvidia’s DLSS 5: Insights from a Modder**

Modders have recently come into possession of a leaked preliminary build of Nvidia’s DLSS 5, a generative AI upscaling solution that promises unparalleled graphical realism in video games. Initial evaluations across various titles have produced mixed reviews, swinging between admiration and sheer dismay as the AI transforms recognizable characters into eerie reflections of reality.

Launched with considerable hype in March 2026, DLSS 5 seeks to elevate game visuals to a degree that some claim compromises the artistic vision originally conceived by developers. Detractors have rallied for a cessation of the tool’s advancement, with one user lamenting its impact in Halo, characterizing the outcomes as “actual nightmare fuel.”

The uproar focuses on the AI’s propensity to revert to a narrow spectrum of human appearances, depriving characters of distinctive features in favor of what many view as lifeless hyperrealism. As one Redditor noted, the filter standardizes character designs, preferring generic faces akin to marketing studio photos rather than the meticulously crafted identities developed by creators.

This issue of de-stylization continues even in titles where photo-realism is already an objective, such as *The Last of Us*. A character artist from Naughty Dog highlighted that their team’s aim was never grounded in reality but was instead focused on a curated, artistic style that would be compromised by DLSS 5’s indiscriminate approach.

In spite of the criticism, a number of gamers showed intrigue regarding the potential of this technology, particularly for games emphasizing realistic portrayals of individuals. The varied responses also apply to titles with strong stylistic preferences, like JRPGs, where the effects have resulted in both comedic and distressing changes to cherished characters.

Occurrences of DLSS 5 generating visually discordant results have surged on social media. In numerous cases, characters from well-known franchises such as *Kingdom Hearts 3* have been subject to extreme decolorization and modifications that evoke the so-called “uncanny valley.” Even companies like Razer have chimed in, humorously commenting on the disconcerting visual changes.

Performance problems exacerbate these aesthetic issues, as many players report considerable frame rate declines when activating DLSS 5. Users have observed drops of over 50%, intensifying frustrations with a tool that many believe detracts from gameplay in the quest for graphical fidelity.

At this time, DLSS 5 is not projected for an official launch until fall 2026. As this debate progresses, the gaming community remains polarized. While some appreciate the technology’s potential, others contend that authentic artistic vision should not be relinquished for the sake of realism. Nvidia’s assertion that this development constitutes “the most significant breakthrough in computer graphics” continues to provoke contention amidst widespread criticism.

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2, the second series of the anime CD Projekt Red and Netflix grafted onto the former’s cyberverse following Cyberpunk 2077‘s release, will premiere on October 20th. Having previously revealed the four new Night City dwellers its plot will be following, the show’s creators have now put out another trailer teasing the tale of “revenge and redemption” in store.

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**Title: Walmart Unveils Lottery System for Pokémon TCG Amid Sustained Shortages**

As the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) nears two years of pronounced shortages, retailers are striving to devise new methods to tackle the dilemma. This issue intensified with the debut of Surging Sparks in November 2024, resulting in heightened tensions among collectors, scalpers, and retail outlets. In response to these complications, Walmart has recently launched an online lottery system for acquiring select Pokémon TCG products.

**The Lottery Concept**

While lotteries for obtaining Pokémon cards are fairly commonplace in Japan, they are relatively unfamiliar in the United States. Japanese retailers, such as Amazon, have long adopted this system to regulate demand, aiming to reduce scalping behaviors. Walmart’s innovative approach signifies a transformation in the U.S. market as they aim to offer a more equitable means for customers to obtain these highly coveted items.

Walmart’s lottery, referred to as a “drawing,” enables customers to enter without an immediate financial commitment. This system seeks to ease the frustrations that frequently accompany restock events, where scalpers and automated bots often deplete stock before most customers get a chance to access the site.

**Conditions of Participation**

To engage in Walmart’s lottery, customers must possess a Walmart account. Eligible entries are randomly chosen after the entry period concludes. However, unlike conventional purchase methods, if selected, customers will be automatically billed for the items. Those who do not win will not receive any notification, leaving many prospective buyers uncertain about their status.

Walmart has established stringent rules concerning cancellations and returns. Entrants cannot withdraw their entries once submitted, and any items acquired through this lottery may not be returnable, which raises concerns about consumer rights within retail law.

**Comparative Approaches to Scarcity**

Walmart’s system, though not flawless, presents a more attractive framework compared to the strategies employed by competitors like GameStop and Target. Some retailers have chosen to artificially inflate prices, while others have adopted methods such as unsealing products at the point of sale to discourage scalpers. Although this tactic helps prevent resale, it frustrates collectors who prefer to acquire sealed products.

Lotteries, such as Walmart’s, aim to create an equal opportunity for genuine customers to purchase Pokémon cards. Walmart also plans to filter out suspicious submissions to enhance the integrity of the drawing process.

**Looking Ahead**

The Pokémon TCG market remains unpredictable as excitement grows for the upcoming release of the 30th Anniversary set. As retailers continue to investigate solutions to the persistent shortages and scalping challenges, the future of collectors and enthusiasts remains uncertain. Changes in purchasing systems, like Walmart’s lottery, illustrate broader efforts to navigate this intricate landscape, even if they may not entirely resolve the fundamental issues. Collectors and fans are urged to remain alert and be ready for the shifting dynamics of the Pokémon TCG market.

Well, the chase has begun. Rockstar parent company Take-Two are after the identity of the hacker or hackers behind this week’s GTA 6 leak. Having spent a number of days swatting clips with takedowns, while the leakers dumped more and more across the net, Take-Two have filed multiple subpoenas in federal district court asking Microsoft and Discord to share records related to accounts which have been involved in posting and sharing the leaks.

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