Gait Games

The era of generative AI has kindled an era of generative AI witchhunts. It’s routine right now for videogame developers to fend off accusations of using the technology, even when they are full-throated in their disapproval of ChatGPT, Claude and their ilk. Recent examples include Sandustry, the 2D factory builder from Hooded Horse with strangely haunting physics, and the just-announced Humankind 2, whose creators Amplitude have rushed to assure players that their announcement trailer is genuine live action film.

The conversation reflects a shifting idea of what AI-generated imagery ‘looks like’ – shifting because, strictly speaking, AI-generated imagery has no fixed style or quality. It’s derived from whatever data the model is ‘fed’. The confusion is exacerbated by the fact that the technology is changing, with new or updated buzzwordy tools being added to the pile. Established hallmarks of generated imagery go out of date fast. Meanwhile, generative AI’s advocates muddy the waters, conflating tools and framing their capabilities in ludicrously open-ended, investor-baiting terms. Still, some responsibility falls on regular users who’ve become accustomed to chucking around claims of “AI slop”.

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**Milo Yiannopoulos Apprehended by ICE: An Examination of the Contentious Figure and Recent Updates**

Earlier today, prominent media organizations, including *TMZ*, reported that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has detained right-wing provocateur Milo Yiannopoulos at a holding facility in Louisiana. This event signifies a pivotal moment for a figure once central to the Gamergate movement, as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has verified his classification as an “illegal alien” slated for deportation due to infractions related to immigration laws.

**Details of His Captivity**

According to DHS, Yiannopoulos was apprehended on August 27 at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport after legally entering the United States on May 14, 2019, via New York City. However, he overstayed his visa, resulting in a final removal order issued by an Immigration Judge on July 22 when he neglected to attend his immigration hearing. In a public statement, DHS underscored that Yiannopoulos would be held in ICE custody while awaiting deportation.

The agency further stressed a wider message directed at undocumented migrants, urging them to use the CBP Home App for self-deportation, providing $3,000 and a flight back to their home nations. This policy showcases a tough stance on immigration enforcement, aiming to encourage voluntary exits before potential arrest.

**Affiliations and Contentions**

Milo Yiannopoulos has consistently been a polarizing figure recognized for his provocative language and participation in divisive political discourse. Allegedly present in Louisiana to attend a concert by rapper Ye—who has come under fire for his antisemitic comments—Yiannopoulos’ connections exemplify his continued involvement in contentious cultural discussions.

Significantly, Yiannopoulos has previously advocated for stricter measures against undocumented immigrants, suggesting ICE checkpoints in public areas, a stark reminder of the very regulations he now faces. His activity on Twitter has persistently aligned with stringent immigration and nationalist sentiments, culminating in a bold call for heightened enforcement efforts.

**A Legacy of Conflict**

Yiannopoulos gained recognition as a prominent figure in the Gamergate saga, which commenced in 2014 and revolved around themes of sexism and harassment in the gaming world. His connection to this movement and his role at Breitbart News established him as a vital influencer in energizing young, reactionary demographics across online forums. Once a fervent supporter of Donald Trump, he played an essential role in fostering a culture of digital activism that has significant ramifications in today’s political discussions.

His rapid ascent illustrates the intricacies of media impact, where initial backing for fringe movements may result in severe ramifications for the advocates themselves. As Yiannopoulos faces the fallout of his legal status, the realities of an evolving political environment provide an ironic twist to his prior demands for rigorous immigration enforcement.

**Conclusion**

Milo Yiannopoulos’ detention by ICE acts as a striking reminder of the intertwined destinies of those advocating controversial political beliefs and policies. As the situation unfolds, the larger social consequences of such actions continue to echo, prompting inquiries about the essence of immigration enforcement, the repercussions of incendiary rhetoric, and the future of political activism in a fractured America.

The best helmets, chestplates, boots, and leggings.

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I am TONY STARK… and my brassy crimson pantaloons may have sprung a few leaks. A work-in-progress trailer for Marvel’s Iron Man, an air-capable action game in development at EA Motive, has appeared online. You can find it on Resetera, though I imagine the video will be taken down soon.

The timestamp “Aug26” indicates that it’s a recent creation. The video itself uses unfinished assets, but the direction and editing suggest that it could be an early version of an official trailer. Or it could be for an internal presentation of some kind. There are some obviously goofy elements, like crediting Hulk as the “world director”. HULK SMASH PROJECT SPRINT.

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**Rockstar Games’ Creative Employment of Past Titles in Grand Theft Auto 6’s Promotion**

On Thursday, September 28th, 2023, Rockstar Games revealed the eagerly awaited initial glimpse of gameplay for *Grand Theft Auto 6* (GTA 6). This remarkable showcase follows years of speculation and anticipation regarding the game’s creation, which is anticipated to be one of the most significant and transformative launches in video game history. Among the standout features of the nearly 30-minute gameplay presentation was a comical advertisement for a fictional deli, Chacey’s, featuring an absurdly oversized sandwich made from various animal meats—a distinctly quirky characteristic that fans have learned to expect from Rockstar.

What piqued the interest of numerous viewers, particularly those acquainted with *Red Dead Redemption II* (RDR 2), was the noticeable rehash of animal models and settings from its predecessor. Keen fans quickly pointed out that Rockstar had indeed borrowed assets from RDR 2 for the Chacey’s commercial, stirring conversations within the gaming community. One Reddit user even identified the precise location in RDR 2 where the commercial was filmed, showcasing the game’s breathtaking open-world environment.

Rockstar’s approach of repurposing elements from its past titles is not a recent development. Since the launch of *GTA IV* in 2008, the studio has woven in references and assets from older games into newer releases. For example, *GTA IV* showcased various TV programs and advertisements that included allusions to *GTA San Andreas* and *Bully*, incorporating recognizable landmarks and characters into the game’s realm. This layering of content not only enhances the player’s experience but also cultivates a feeling of continuity and nostalgia for dedicated fans.

In a similar vein, *Grand Theft Auto V* featured a particular black-and-white arthouse movie that included clips filmed in RDR, further emphasizing the connections between Rockstar’s titles. This intertextuality serves various purposes: it conserves development time, improves the world-building of their franchises, and provides hidden Easter eggs for avid players who delight in dissecting the narratives and lore found within Rockstar’s universe.

With the upcoming release of GTA 6 set for November on PlayStation 5 and Xbox, it is probable that fans will discover more familiar elements and Easter eggs from Rockstar’s extensive library of games. Potential cameos could consist of recognizable sites from *GTA V* or Easter eggs inspired by *Red Dead Redemption’s* Undead Nightmare DLC. The enthusiasm surrounding such integrations speaks to Rockstar’s dedication to crafting immersive worlds that feel dynamic and interconnected.

Ultimately, the inventive reuse of assets not only showcases Rockstar Games’ ingenuity but also strengthens the bond between its games and the community. Fans eagerly anticipate the impending release, along with the multitude of hidden references and connections they will uncover in their adventures through the vibrant world of *Grand Theft Auto 6*.

Remember to follow the safety briefing.

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**Matthew McConaughey on Refusing the Role of Joel in HBO’s *The Last of Us***

HBO’s version of *The Last of Us* has created a noteworthy cultural resonance, bringing forth the intense tale of survival and human relationships in a post-apocalyptic setting. At the heart of this story is the character Joel, played by Pedro Pascal, who embodies the nuances of a hesitant hero and father figure. However, fans might be astonished to discover that Matthew McConaughey was in the running for this role before it eventually went to Pascal.

In recent conversations, showrunner Craig Mazin disclosed that McConaughey was a contender for the role of Joel, one of the most legendary characters in video game history recognized for his profound emotional challenges and ethical dilemmas. Nonetheless, McConaughey has offered reasons for his decision not to chase the role, emphasizing his career path and personal priorities at that moment.

During a conversation on the *Happy Sad Confused* podcast, McConaughey clarified that he wasn’t actively on the lookout for acting opportunities when *The Last of Us* was being crafted in the early 2020s. He was transitioning into a phase where he devoted more time to writing and exploring leadership positions outside of acting. He commented, “I wasn’t really acting at that time… it was really good. I was really excited.” This shift in focus contrasted with his earlier experiences in projects like *True Detective*, which he characterized as a landmark moment in television for actors of his caliber.

The actor conveyed that he typically shies away from long-term television commitments, favoring standalone projects that provide unique challenges and narrative possibilities. He reminisced about his experience on *True Detective*, noting that it was a special scenario that he found intriguing and successful during its execution. Conversely, he considered the significant commitment associated with a series like *The Last of Us* to be a considerable responsibility, asserting, “you want this to succeed…Well in success, this is something you’ll be doing for years and years and years.”

As the show advances and prepares for its third season, which will feature Kaitlyn Dever as the character Abby, one can only speculate how McConaughey’s interpretation might have varied and what it could have contributed to the series. Nevertheless, the freedom McConaughey has—courtesy of his established career—validates that top-tier actors can be selective about their projects, making choices that resonate with their present life phases and creative goals.

In conclusion, while Matthew McConaughey’s lack of involvement in the role of Joel in *The Last of Us* may intrigue some fans, his decision signifies a deliberate approach to his artistry and career objectives at the time. As the series carries on, it will be captivating to observe its progression, especially with new stories and characters emerging.

Bit of a quiet one this week, gang. Half the RPS team are on holiday, ill, or off at some preview event, maybe in a less melty part of the world like Scandinavia, the lucky bastards. Games, however, must be played, and if it happens to be over a weekend, well…

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**Palworld: The Emerging Competitor in Trading Card Games Confronts Scalper Issues**

In recent times, *Palworld*, a game reminiscent of *Pokémon*, has captured attention not only for its likenesses but also for the chaotic launch of its physical trading card game (TCG). The *Palworld: Official Card Game* (POCG) debuted its first set, *Dawn of Palpagos*, on July 30, and right from the outset, it has faced exceptional demand, resulting in shortages and an uptick in scalping activities.

The developers of *Palworld* and the related TCG have conveyed their dedication to tackling these challenges more actively than many others in the industry. Recent news suggests that scalpers have taken advantage of the circumstances, leading to disappointment among fans eager to secure the card game. In recognition of the issue, the official *Palworld* Twitter handle issued an apology, affirming that they are devising strategies to enhance distribution and availability of the game. They expressed genuine regret for the situation, noting that it has prevented many fans from obtaining their copies.

Considering that initial sets of trading card games are typically considered collectible gems, the interest in POCG’s first set is to be expected. Nonetheless, the extent of the scarcity encountered has surpassed expectations, intensified by scalpers reselling *Palworld* cards at inflated prices. Merely one day post-launch, certain cards were reportedly listed for up to $4,000 on secondary markets. For a more standard product, booster boxes originally priced at about $50 have seen listings on sites like eBay starting at $160, frequently approaching $200.

The TCG is created by Bushiroad, a firm recognized for games such as *Shadowverse: Evolve* and *Cardfight!! Vanguard*. POCG embodies the essence of the *Palworld* video game, featuring a mix of combat, resource acquisition, and elements of base construction. Initial reviews have been largely favorable, though the legitimacy of some critiques has come under examination due to sponsorship disclosures.

In response to the immense demand and issues with scalping, plans are underway for restocking in Japan, where products will be distributed through pop-up stores without shrink wrap. This tactic is designed to deter scalper practices, as consumers are generally advised against purchasing new TCG cards lacking appropriate packaging authentication.

As Bushiroad works on solutions to enhance product availability, the community’s long-term response remains uncertain. While *Palworld* seeks to establish itself as a contender to *Pokémon*, its approach to supply chain challenges indicates a commitment to supporting its player community, creating a distinct contrast to the historical reactions of more established franchises.

To sum up, *Palworld* has established a unique position in the trading card game market, incorporating familiar gameplay mechanics with innovative features. However, the initial success of its card game launch has ushered in significant hurdles. As the company navigates scalper challenges and seeks restocks, the wider gaming community will be keenly observing their adaptation and growth within the competitive realm of collectible card games.

### The MCU’s X-Men: Cast Revealed for the Upcoming Reboot

Following years of rumors, legal hurdles, and the notable introduction of Jean Grey in *Spider-Man: Brand New Day*, Marvel Studios has officially disclosed the cast for its forthcoming X-Men movie. This revelation was made during Disney’s D23 event, confirming numerous speculations that had circulated prior to the presentation.

#### The Cast

At the forefront of the cast is Sadie Sink, reprising her role as Jean Grey, continuing her arc as one of the most cherished characters in the X-Men universe. Joining her are Kit Connor as Cyclops and Samara Weaving as Emma Frost, both of whom have been eagerly awaited by fans.

### Supporting Cast

The film also includes breakout talent Inde Navarrette, recognized for her performance in *Obsession*, taking on the role of Rogue. Broadway performer Maya Boyd will play Storm, bringing her theatrical skills into the superhero domain. Christopher Abbott, acclaimed for his role in *Girls*, will portray the important character of Professor Charles Xavier. Completing the cast is Adam Driver, who will take on the antagonist Nathaniel Milbury, also referred to as Mr. Sinister.

#### Missing Characters

While the roster is shaping up, several key X-Men figures remain unannounced. Currently, there is no update on characters like Wolverine or Magneto, both central to X-Men history. This has led fans to speculate whether the film will explore the ideological clashes between Professor X and Magneto or head into a storyline that sidesteps these crucial characters. With Hugh Jackman’s iconic performance as Wolverine over the last two decades, Marvel might be deliberate in re-casting this treasured character.

### Release Date and Direction

The highly anticipated X-Men reboot is set to premiere in theaters on May 5, 2028. Jake Schreier, known for directing *Thunderbolts*, will lend his vision to this project, paving the way for a new chapter in superhero cinema.

As the anticipation grows for the MCU’s X-Men, fans are eager for further updates regarding additional casting and plot specifics, hoping for a film that respects the franchise’s rich legacy while introducing a new generation to these powerful heroes and their captivating narratives.