Gait Games

It isn’t particularly difficult to find a simulation game of some kind that allows you to carry out the most mundane of tasks these days. Now you’ll have no trouble finding domestic chore life sims like Lawn Mowing Simulator or Leaf Blower Co. But once upon a time, games like House Flipper were all in there lonesome, a niche of a niche. And if you fancy seeing what the game that made games like these catch on is like in action, good news! House Flipper is free for you to keep over the rest of this weekend.

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### The Departure of Norman Caruso: A Reflective Look at the Gaming Historian

Norman Caruso, widely known as the Gaming Historian on YouTube, has revealed his choice to withdraw from producing content after more than 15 years of commitment to the channel. With a subscriber base exceeding a million, Caruso has delivered thorough investigations into the realm of gaming, discussing legendary franchises like *Mario*, *Tetris*, and *Wolfenstein*, alongside less familiar accessories such as the infamous Power Glove. Despite the channel’s notable achievements, Caruso has encountered issues with burnout, ultimately opting to prioritize his mental health over the demands of content creation.

In a poignant farewell video, Caruso remarked, “Today I’m announcing I will no longer be making Gaming Historian videos… There’s nothing dramatic behind it, I promise.” He expanded on feeling exhausted since his last video regarding the *Oregon Trail* in 2024, confessing his difficulty in finding the drive required for new content while managing other facets of his life. Caruso underscored the extensive research necessary to uphold the quality and precision his viewers expect, a process that can span years, even for shorter productions. Though he contemplated continuing the channel part-time with sporadic updates, he realized that the creative spark he once depended upon was missing. “All the while, to my surprise, that itch to make a new video never really came back… My heart just wasn’t in it,” he admitted.

The choice to step away was far from simple. Caruso voiced his worries that if he persisted in pushing himself to produce content, the standard of his work would diminish, failing to meet the high expectations he had established throughout his career. The Gaming Historian channel, which launched in 2008, started by exploring retro gaming nuances and gradually transformed to center on ambitious, thoroughly-researched projects.

In his farewell video, Caruso offered his audience a look back at the significant lawsuit between Nintendo and Universal Studios in 1984, centered on Universal’s assertions that Nintendo’s arcade sensation *Donkey Kong* infringed upon *King Kong*. The lawsuit concluded in favor of Nintendo, with their attorney, John Kirby, eventually becoming the namesake for the beloved gaming character, Kirby. Caruso’s in-depth examination included visits to archives to reveal court documents, transcripts, game design guides, and even sketches from gaming icon Shigeru Miyamoto. While this highly anticipated video will not see the light of day, Caruso has made the scans available to the public via the Internet Archive and the Video Game History Foundation, ensuring that this crucial chapter of gaming history remains accessible.

As Caruso takes a step back, it is vital to consider the evolution of the online gaming landscape during his years of contribution. At the start of his journey, Caruso navigated a space led by creators like the Angry Video Game Nerd. Today, the domain of gaming history is enriched by a diverse array of voices, including those from channels like Basement Brothers, offering a PC-88 viewpoint; GTV, with its pop culture critiques; NoClip, known for its comprehensive behind-the-scenes documentaries; Jeremy Parish’s exhaustive chronologies; and Critical Kate, who has uncovered rare footage such as Nintendo’s original *Wild Gunmen*.

While it is surely a loss for the gaming community to say goodbye to Caruso, there exists a silver lining in his exit; he departs on his own terms, having made a noteworthy impact on the manner in which gaming history is conveyed and celebrated. His contributions will continue to inspire aspiring historians and content creators for years ahead.

### Leaked Footage from the Set of Alex Garland’s Upcoming *Elden Ring* Movie

Recently, footage from the set of Alex Garland’s much-anticipated *Elden Ring* movie emerged online, filmed by a content creator who inadvertently came across it in a seemingly random field in England. Although the authenticity of the footage has been viewed with suspicion—an understandable worry in the current climate of AI-generated content—*Kotaku* has successfully reached out to the original poster and confirmed the existence of another video showcasing the set.

#### Background and Development

The *Elden Ring* film was officially announced in May 2025, receiving approval directly from Hidetaka Miyazaki, the acclaimed director of the original game. Garland made a personal trip to Japan, where he presented Miyazaki with an extensive 160-page draft outlining his vision for the film. Since the announcement, updates on the project have been sparse, with only a handful of casting details disclosed, including actors Ben Whishaw and Cailee Spaeny in unspecified roles.

Initially, it was mentioned that production company A24 intended to begin filming in 2026, but no concrete start date for principal photography has been revealed. However, the recent video posted by *Elden Ring* streamer THROX on TikTok implies that an announcement may be on the horizon.

#### Discovery of the Set

In their correspondence with *Kotaku*, THROX confirmed their findings that the set is indeed situated in England. Importantly, this was not a mere coincidence—THROX learned of it from a friend who was the first to recognize the set and share the information. In addition to the initial footage, THROX holds further images and videos of various locations on the set, which they intend to release in the future. One clip reportedly features items such as barrels and wooden carts reminiscent of those found in the game.

#### Speculation on Set Design

After examining THROX’s footage, efforts were made to match the visual components with the in-game Church of Marika. However, no precise match was identified among the churches within *Elden Ring*. There are speculations suggesting that the film might function as a prequel, potentially depicting a version of the Second Church of Marika that appears to be in a less deteriorated state than its game counterpart. Alternatively, the film could introduce an entirely new Church of Marika that hasn’t been represented in the game.

The visual style of the area depicted in THROX’s clips resembles the Limgrave region from *Elden Ring*. This choice of location in England is viewed as strategic, as it reduces visual effects expenses related to crafting a dark and foreboding atmosphere that the narrative may necessitate.

With the film’s release still a ways off, the anticipation surrounding the adaptation of *Elden Ring* continues to grow, further ignited by glimpses behind the scenes. The upcoming official announcements regarding filming timelines are highly awaited by fans eager to see how Garland brings the beloved game to the big screen.

Garth DeAngelis remembers being in the room when Firaxis chose to ditch XCOM: Enemy Unknown’s procedurally generated maps. Despite being a feature of the original 1994 game, when Firaxis tried to build the tech for their reboot of the turn-based tactical classic 15 years later, it was causing major headaches.

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### Sony Increases PS5 Pricing: Current Offers and Consequences

On April 2, 2026, Sony made a formal announcement regarding a price hike for the PlayStation 5 (PS5), which is now available at a starting MSRP of $600 for the base variant. This signifies a considerable transformation in the gaming realm, especially since the initial launch price of the console was set at $400. Nevertheless, astute gamers still have the chance to acquire the PS5 at its original price point, at least for the moment.

#### Temporarily Available PS5 Bundle Deals

PlayStation Direct presently lists the **Fortnite Flowering Chaos PS5 Bundle** at the original price of $400. This package includes the digital edition of the console, which does not have a disc drive, along with exclusive PlayStation cosmetics for Epic Games’ well-known battle royale, Fortnite. Sony’s promotion emphasizes a “savings of $200,” signifying that this deal is not merely a transient mistake but a genuine offer aimed at liquidating current inventory.

Retailers such as GameStop are also offering the same bundle for $400, albeit it has already sold out, indicating a possible surge among shoppers eager to take advantage of the reduced price before the adjustments affect the larger market.

#### Effects on Gamers

As the gaming world braces for the expected launches of titles like **Grand Theft Auto 6** and **Marvel’s Wolverine**, the need to obtain a PS5 may intensify. Grand Theft Auto 6, in particular, is stirring enthusiasm and is not scheduled for a PC release at debut, making the PS5 an appealing choice for console gamers who want to engage with the latest escapades promptly. Considering that Sony’s PS5 is predicted to deliver superior performance for these major titles compared to Microsoft’s Xbox Series S, the $400 bundle might be the best deal for consumers prior to price adjustments.

#### Future Considerations: The Next Generation of Gaming Consoles

Although the existing promotional bundle presents a remarkable bargain, gaming fans find themselves at a pivotal moment as the market starts to evolve. The alternative—the Xbox Series S—also has a price tag of $400 but is typically viewed as less powerful and performant compared to the PS5 and Xbox Series X. As both Sony and Microsoft prepare for the upcoming generation of consoles, buyers might contemplate whether to make a purchase now or wait for the PS6, which could launch at elevated price points reflecting the persistent inflation in the tech industry.

In summary, those aspiring to engage in next-gen gaming may discover that taking advantage of the opportunity to purchase a PS5 now, especially with current bundles, is a prudent decision in light of rising prices and constrained availability.

In a touching and unforgettable scene from the legendary video game *Super Mario 64*, gamers face an enthralling boss battle featuring the cherished plumber Mario and his formidable foe, Bowser. Mario, leveraging his might and nimbleness, flings the massive turtle dragon Bowser into a sequence of bombs to cause harm. As he performs this feat, Mario announces a line that has ignited significant debate and amusement among enthusiasts for years. This line, humorously misheard as “So long, gay Bowser,” has transformed into a cultural sensation, resulting in widespread memes and discussions within the gaming world.

The misunderstanding arises from the character’s pronounced Italian accent paired with the Nintendo 64’s constrained audio capabilities. Charles Martinet, who voiced Mario, has clarified that the true line is “So long, king Bowser.” Nevertheless, the misinterpretation endures, as it often takes on a life of its own in gaming vernacular. Additionally, the incorrect phrase has triggered a humorous reading that implies a much deeper bond between Mario and Bowser, sparking a multitude of fan theories and debates regarding the essence of their rivalry.

The misheard phrase has become symbolic of how fans interact with the game and its characters. A recent instance is found in *The Super Mario Galaxy Movie*, where Bowser’s portrayal includes a playful nod to this three-decade-old meme. This 98-minute film is replete with references to Mario’s legacy, and while it wasn’t the creators’ aim, the scene where Bowser gives Mario a “sloppy wet kiss” has certainly led fans to speculate on the subtleties of the relationship between these two characters, further enriching the meme culture surrounding them.

Furthermore, Bowser’s character traditionally exhibits an unyielding pursuit of Princess Peach, striving to win her favor through his villainous deeds across numerous games. A more intricate interpretation implies that Bowser’s interactions in the film suggest a wider array of identity and relationships. For example, recent illustrations depict Bowser painting Luigi in suggestive situations, hinting at the possibility of a romantic connection that ventures into fan shipping.

Fans have enthusiastically crafted ships like “Bowuigi,” emphasizing the playful, romantic potential between Bowser and Luigi. Although Bowser is generally portrayed as a villain, the concept of him exploring friendships and romantic interests adds layers to his character that resonate with many fans. With Luigi’s developing friendship with Bowser illustrated in the movie, there’s speculation that future narratives may delve deeper into these dynamics.

As Bowser remains focused on Princess Peach, some fans promote a shift in his romantic interests toward a character like Luigi, suggesting that showcasing such a relationship could lead to widespread appreciation and potentially even box office triumph. By intertwining humorous fan theories and a newfound recognition for character complexity, the *Super Mario* franchise continues to captivate and amuse, while simultaneously mirroring evolving conversations about identity and relationships in modern media. Ultimately, these lighthearted interpretations of characters reflect a broader yearning for representation and diversity within gaming culture.

**State of Decay 3: Alpha Playtest Announcement and Community Engagement**

The eagerly awaited sequel, *State of Decay 3*, crafted by Undead Labs, has recently gained attention with the reveal of its inaugural alpha playtest. Set to commence next month, this playtest aims to collect feedback from the community as the game, which has been in the works for over six years, nears its completion.

Brant Fitzgerald, co-creator of the series, highlighted the significance of community feedback in a recent YouTube broadcast. He indicated that the alpha playtest will include 4-player co-op gameplay, improved base building, new resource strategies, and a focus on combat. Players wishing to take part are urged to sign up on the official website, where they can find more information about the specifics and requirements of the playtest.

*State of Decay 3* was initially unveiled during Xbox’s summer showcase in 2020, establishing itself as a logical progression from earlier games. The development of the title has been characterized as ambitious, with Undead Labs aiming to build on its predecessor, *State of Decay 2*, while enhancing features that fans cherished. The project has encountered hurdles and delays, as highlighted during its reappearance at Microsoft’s 2024 summer showcase, which left fans both excited and apprehensive for updates on the game’s status.

Fitzgerald reassured the community of the studio’s commitment to heeding and addressing player feedback. He remarked, “We’ve been closely monitoring what you appreciated about *State of Decay 2* and what you didn’t. We’ve considered your feedback on Discord. We’ve viewed your gameplay footage and live streams on YouTube.” This proactive approach signifies that Undead Labs acknowledges the importance of its loyal player base, which has driven the development process.

As Undead Labs continues to polish *State of Decay 3*, the alpha test serves as a tactical initiative. While it implies that the game is approaching launch, it also demonstrates the studio’s intention to sidestep the issues faced by other live-service games. By engaging players early in the development phase, Undead Labs seeks to refine gameplay mechanics and address community feedback before a broader release.

With excitement mounting, players are eager to discover if *State of Decay 3* will fulfill the expectations set throughout its development process. As the gaming community looks forward to further announcements, including possible updates during Xbox’s forthcoming June gaming showcase, the alpha playtest represents a crucial milestone in the evolution of this zombie survival crafting sequel.

**Will Marathon Ever Achieve Game of the Year?**

The inquiry regarding whether a multiplayer game like *Marathon* can clinch the prestigious Game of the Year (GOTY) honor has become increasingly significant in today’s gaming environment. In light of the triumphs of *Elden Ring* in 2022, *Baldur’s Gate 3* in 2023, and *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33* in 2025, expectations are mounting that *Marathon* might join their ranks. Voice actress Jennifer English, recognized for her performances in all three award-winning titles, has ignited discussions about what is being referred to as “the Jennifer English effect.”

During a recent panel, English conveyed her astonishment at the prominence her work has received. Her co-actor Ben Starr proposed that *Marathon* is poised to be a GOTY candidate due to this phenomenon. Nevertheless, multiplayer games frequently encounter significant challenges for accolades, particularly if they don’t reach high levels of popularity or critical praise, as indicated by Metacritic ratings. The forthcoming year also features the launch of *Grand Theft Auto 6*, which could eclipse *Marathon*’s chances for recognition, especially if the rivalry turns out to be less fierce in 2026.

**Resident Evil Reboot: Anxiety and Input**

The revival of the *Resident Evil* film series has left fans apprehensive, particularly with Zach Cregger at the helm, known for *Barbarian.* A script leak has stirred unease within the community, as many fear that Hollywood may once again mismanage the cherished franchise. Cregger himself has acknowledged the worries of fans, emphasizing his awareness of their deep-seated passion for the series’ lore.

Despite the tension, initial feedback from test screenings has been unexpectedly favorable. Insider Daniel Richtman reported on the positive reactions, and Aesthetic Gamer, a well-known leaker, echoed this sentiment, indicating that it aligns with Cregger’s past successes. However, given the historical challenges that adaptations often face, doubt among fans continues to flourish.

**Dead by Daylight: No Sequel in View**

Fans of *Dead by Daylight* may need to temper their hopes, as Behavior Interactive’s director Mathieu Cote has confirmed that a sequel is not on the horizon. Instead, the team is focused on developing the current game and keeping it pertinent for newer players without necessitating a fresh start. Cote’s remarks underscore a dedication to innovation within the existing framework of the game, ensuring that it remains invigorating and appealing even a decade after its initial release.

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As gaming evolves, the discourse surrounding major titles and adaptations stays dynamic, with ongoing conversations influencing the industry’s future.

**Minishoot Adventures: A Twin-Stick Metroidvania Treasure in 2024**

In 2024, a twin-stick metroidvania titled *Minishoot Adventures* was launched, regrettably attracting minimal attention despite being one of the year’s standout titles. Fortunately, this meticulously crafted game, which fuses elements of *Zelda* and *Gradius*, has experienced a resurgence through a console adaptation, especially for the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, where it truly excels.

One of the most impressive features of *Minishoot Adventures* is its controls, which stand out as the game’s focal point. Generally, twin-stick shooters need players to adjust to sensitivity and balance, but right from the beginning, *Minishoot* presents an outstanding and intuitive control setup. Players steer a small spacecraft in a top-down 2D world tainted by a malevolent purple force. The initial arrangement is familiar to any metroidvania fan: players take on the role of a solitary hero, gathering abilities to unlock new areas and restore their homeland.

As players dive into intense combat against a variety of foes, fluid controls allow for accurate navigation through chaotic bullet patterns. The gameplay rapidly evolves as players gain powerful boosts, dashes, and unique weaponry, all while rescuing allies and advancing towards the main village.

Exploration evokes memories of classic 2D *Zelda* games, featuring areas obstructed by barriers ready to be surmounted. The game motivates players to navigate numerous routes, freely deciding when to tackle obstacles or revisit earlier sections with newly acquired skills, enriching the overall experience.

Although there are no spoken words, *Minishoot Adventures* portrays a lively world brimming with charm. While other ships display quirks through cute animations instead of dialogue, the unique movements of enemies and the atmospheric backdrop enhance player immersion.

Having first finished the game during its PC release in 2024, returning to the console version offered a rewarding experience, particularly on higher difficulty settings. The challenge, alongside accessible gameplay options, made boss encounters feel both fair and attainable, allowing players to grasp patterns without irritation.

Accessibility is a vital aspect of *Minishoot Adventures*, featuring adjustable game speed, infinite energy options, and invincibility switches. These attributes guarantee that all players can appreciate the game’s varied challenges and rich experience.

As the game intensifies in difficulty, it keeps players engaged with increasingly intricate enemies and innovative assaults. Exceptionally polished, *Minishoot Adventures* is perfect for the Switch, whether in handheld or docked mode, delivering stunning visuals that elevate the gaming experience.

Created by just two French cousins, the game exemplifies how a small team can create an extraordinary product. Available on PC, Xbox, PS5, and both Switch and Switch 2 at a reasonable price of $16, it has also been made accessible through Game Pass, inviting more players to explore its enchanting world.

In conclusion, *Minishoot Adventures* stands out not only for its gameplay and design but also as an exemplary representation of how indie games can resonate with the wider gaming community. It deserves a spot in the library of any player in search of a captivating and fulfilling experience.

**Delving into the New Multiplayer Feature in Ghost of Yotei: Spotlight on Zeni Hajiki**

A standout aspect of *Ghost of Yotei*’s recently launched free multiplayer co-op mode, *Legends*, is the chance to participate in the competitive coin-flicking game called Zeni Hajiki with friends. This feature showcases Sucker Punch’s dedication to improving player experiences, as they developed new rules tailored specifically for PvP gameplay, informed by community feedback and innovative prototyping.

Darren Bridges, Sucker Punch’s senior staff designer and *Legends* lead, shared insights with *Kotaku* regarding the process of incorporating Zeni Hajiki into the multiplayer setting. He disclosed that although the studio always planned to introduce a multiplayer co-op mode, the positive fan response to the coin-flicking game confirmed it as a fun activity for the mode’s lobby. This lobby serves as a social center, enabling players to connect and participate in supplementary activities, thus enhancing the overall multiplayer enjoyment.

Bridges remarked, “PvP Zeni Hajiki was always an idea we were excited about. But based on the fan reaction post-launch, we recognized it was a worthwhile investment.” The team had a distinct opportunity to prototype these new competitive guidelines using actual coins in a tabletop context, considering it the “absolute fastest way” to determine if their concepts would be effective before integrating them into the game. Notably, they utilized the coins from *Ghost of Yotei’s* Collector’s Edition, which significantly streamlined their prototyping efforts.

### The Lobby Atmosphere

In discussing the competitive features available in the lobby, like bamboo chopping and Zeni Hajiki, the dialogue naturally shifted towards the possibility of establishing one-on-one duels among players. Many players, including Bridges, showcased a desire to battle friends. However, he clarified that the combat mechanics in *Ghost of Yotei* were chiefly designed for PvE interactions, confirming co-op play as the main emphasis of the *Legends* mode.

Despite this constraint, there remains optimism for the future. Drawing from the experiences of the prior installment, *Ghost of Tsushima*, the developers acknowledged the importance of offering players leisurely activities in lobbies. The favorable response to these multiplayer features has motivated Sucker Punch to better grasp player preferences, potentially laying the groundwork for dual combat mechanics in later titles.

### Harmonizing Development

Bridges confirmed that integrating the multiplayer mode was part of the preliminary vision for *Yotei*, akin to the development of the previous game. A dedicated core team focused on *Legends* while the primary game was being developed, ensuring that both the single-player and multiplayer elements could flourish without compromising their quality. Importantly, Sucker Punch released *Legends* as free DLC, similar to *Ghost of Tsushima*, effectively prioritizing player accessibility and community involvement over revenue from microtransactions.

### Embracing Fantastical Themes

Shifting to the mythological backdrop of *Legends* allowed the developers room to explore more fantastical components and create challenging co-op experiences. Bridges stated, “The fantastical context gives a solid foundation for crafting co-op-focused mechanics and adversaries that present worthy challenges for multiple players.” This creative flexibility has enabled the studio to innovate in developing captivating multiplayer content while preserving the depth and richness of the single-player narrative.

In summary, the evolution of *Ghost of Yotei* and its *Legends* mode exemplifies Sucker Punch’s adaptability and responsiveness to player input. By merging the co-op gameplay experience with socially engaging activities and a vibrant mythological theme, they have established a lively multiplayer space that enhances the main storyline while offering fresh, inventive challenges for players. As the gaming community anticipates forthcoming updates or sequels, the groundwork established by *Legends* ensures ample opportunities for ongoing evolution and refinement in gameplay.