Gait Games

**Sony to Retire PlayStation Network Branding by 2026**

In a notable alteration in branding approach, Sony is reportedly preparing to eliminate the “PlayStation Network” (PSN) branding by the conclusion of summer 2026. Insider Gaming has obtained internal communications confirming that the company intends to phase out these terms as part of an initiative to unify its branding and enhance the user experience.

Initially launched in 2006 alongside the PlayStation 3, the PlayStation Network was created to establish a framework for online gaming and digital services, including the PlayStation Store. Over time, the brand has adapted, but as gaming has progressively shifted to online formats, the line between online and offline gameplay has become unclear. Numerous players now participate in online activities irrespective of a specific designation, resulting in confusion regarding the PSN label.

According to sources within Sony, this rebranding will not impact the fundamental functionality of the network. The essential features related to online play—such as friends lists, multiplayer gaming, and trophy systems—will remain unchanged despite the discontinuation of the PSN name. An internal email noted, “To simplify and unify branding, the terms ‘PlayStation Network’ and ‘PSN’ will be phased out across all SIE assets by September 2026.”

Initial indications of this branding shift have been noted by PlayStation Lifestyle, which observed that on the PS5 console, the term “PlayStation Network” has been streamlined to just “PlayStation.” Furthermore, the formerly designated PSN logo has been eliminated, and the status page for the service is now referred to as “PlayStation Status.”

This movement toward de-branding aligns with user expectations, as many gamers chiefly associate online gaming with the PlayStation Plus service rather than with a specific “PSN” identity. The notion of possessing a separate label for accessing digital stores is increasingly perceived as redundant in the current gaming atmosphere.

The choice to phase out the PSN branding signifies a significant evolution in how Sony aims to streamline its services and engage with its audience. While it may require some time for gamers to adapt to this alteration, its implementation appears to be a logical response to the prevailing online gaming environment, where clarity and simplicity are vital for user satisfaction.

As the gaming industry continues to progress, it remains uncertain how these branding modifications will resonate with the community. Nonetheless, for now, it seems the future of online gaming on PlayStation will advance without the PSN name as of September 2026.

The Ugreen Nexode Retractable is our most favouritest Steam Deck power bank, as James decreed with his testing, and by spending his hard-earned money on it – and if it’s good enough to earn a top recommendation here, then it’s worth you giving it a look over. £52 is a good price for this unit from Amazon, and a price it strangely wasn’t during Amazon’s Spring Sale last week.

In the USA, it’s $80 – a 20% reduction on its $100 MSRP. It has sat at this price for the last couple of weeks, and has gone for less in the past, but it’s still a reasonable deal.

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**Tomb Raider I-III Remastered: Fan Outrage Over Recent Update Additions**

Earlier this week, a notable uproar erupted within the gaming community regarding the newest update for the *Tomb Raider I-III Remastered* collection. This update launched a new Challenge Mode and a range of outfits for the main character, Lara Croft. Regrettably, the new outfits fell short of fan expectations, attracting extensive criticism for their perceived low quality and unappealing designs.

The backlash intensified as fans speculated about the involvement of generative AI (genAI) in the creation of these outfits. This speculation was spurred by the outfits’ peculiar aesthetics, leading one of the remaster’s original artists to publicly distance themselves from them. In response to the uproar, publisher Aspyr promptly addressed the allegations, assuring that no AI was utilized in the design process. They instead credited the creation of the outfits to “our team of artists,” a statement that, while defending their staff, prompted further questions about the quality of the designs.

In an official statement through their X account, Aspyr acknowledged the fan feedback concerning the Challenge Mode update. They highlighted their commitment to resolving the issues by stating, “Our top priority is the delivery of a patch that will fix the texture issues and technical bugs.” This pledge came three days after the initial upheaval, as the company sought to alleviate fan worries regarding the game’s quality.

Although the update was free, it appears to have caused more concern for Aspyr than expected. Players who had purchased the original game, many of whom were attracted to the remastered collection due to the update promotions, expressed dissatisfaction. The frustrations extended beyond the unwelcome outfits to new technical issues that arose alongside the updates, which Aspyr acknowledged and promised to resolve in upcoming patches across all platforms.

Additionally, Aspyr took this moment to clarify specific misunderstandings. They reiterated that the poorly received outfits were produced by their team, dismissing the notion of AI-generated assets. While this clarification aimed to alleviate ongoing concerns, it unintentionally placed blame on their artists amid the backlash.

The situation raises several important questions: How did the outfits end up being of such questionable quality, particularly when promotional materials depicted vastly different visuals? The disparity between what was advertised and the actual in-game presentation was underscored by content creators such as YouTuber RUUs Room, who remarked on the significant misrepresentation of the final products in the marketing visuals.

In conclusion, although the controversy primarily revolves around new outfit designs for a video game character, it highlights broader issues within game development and quality assurance—particularly in instances where the consumer community is deeply invested. As Aspyr endeavors to address these matters, the gaming community is paying close attention, awaiting improvements and explanations for the inadequacies revealed by this latest update.

Tomb Raider developers Crystal Dynamics have announced their fourth round of layoffs in 12 months. A total of 20 staff across development and central operations roles have been let go this time, with Crystal Dynamics emphasising they’re still “fully committed” to Tomb Raider: Catalyst and Tomb Raider: Legacy Of Atlantis.

In March last year, 17 Crystal Dynamics staffers were given their marching orders, with an unspecified number of others being let go in August, and “just under 30” following in November.

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Who needs the bathroom? (We do)

The post Escapades Ensue in Second-Floor Bathroom Instalment Across My Talking Tom Friends and My Talking Tom 2 appeared first on Gamezebo.

Bang. 29 bullets left. Bang, bang, bang, rattatata. 14 bullets left. I’d better reload, in case someone comes around that corner and I need a full clip on hand to empty into then. NO. THINK ABOUT THE BULLETS YOU’RE USING, Valve yell from their giant Steam-powered tower looming high above the battlefield. I look at my magazine and notice that following the latest Counter-Strike 2 update, it now bears a post-it note saying that if I reload early, the leftover ammo will be lost to the mists of time.

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# The Ultimate Pokémon Showdown: Who is the Top Pokémon According to Wolfey Glick?

The discussion regarding the greatest Pokémon has lasted for thirty years, with enthusiasts fervently supporting their chosen ones. For those involved in competitive gaming, the standards for identifying the best Pokémon extend beyond simple nostalgia or aesthetics; it’s all about functionality, strategy, and competitiveness in battles. Wolfe “WolfeyVGC” Glick, a celebrated competitive Pokémon player and World Champion, recently took on the significant endeavor of ranking all Pokémon, resulting in a nearly four-hour video that examines their traits and effectiveness.

## The Ranking Methodology

Wolfey’s rankings include 1,133 Pokémon, which exceeds the 1,025 recorded in the Pokédex. This variance comes from his choice to treat regional forms and alterations as individual entities. To develop a thorough and equitable ranking, Wolfey worked with a team to assess Pokémon based on three primary factors:
1. **Competitive Viability**: How effective is the Pokémon in combat?
2. **Design**: What is the visual appeal and distinctiveness of the Pokémon?
3. **Iconic Status**: How important is the Pokémon in the context of the franchise’s legacy and culture?

Wolfey acknowledges the inherent subjectivity in these evaluations, urging viewers to view the rankings as an enjoyable mental exercise rather than an absolute list to be challenged.

## The Champion Pokémon: Kyogre

For those eager to discover the outcome, the top Pokémon as per Wolfey’s team is none other than Kyogre, the legendary Water-type Pokémon often dubbed the “deity of the ocean.” Kyogre barely edges out its competitor Groudon, demonstrating its strategic advantage in competitive gameplay.

Wolfey reveals a personal bond with Kyogre, reminiscing about how it was among the restricted Pokémon he utilized to secure victory at the World Championships, alongside Rayquaza. His recollections of battling against his brother’s Kyogre in Generation III emphasize the lasting influence this Pokémon has had on his gaming journey. Despite the evolution of gameplay and the passage of time, Kyogre continues to be a preferred option for numerous fans, especially those who encountered it during its original release.

### The Legacy of Generation III

Kyogre’s significance can be attributed not only to its gameplay potential but also to its connection with Generation III fans. Many gamers, no matter when they first met this era of Pokémon, share a deep-rooted affection for Kyogre and Groudon. This nostalgic bond shapes their views on the two Pokémon’s strengths, going beyond the limitations of continued game mechanics and advancing combat tactics.

## Conclusion: A Celebration of Pokémon

Kyogre’s status as the top Pokémon in Wolfey’s video underscores its enduring legacy and competitive merit. While fans may persist in debating their preferred Pokémon, Wolfey’s perspectives offer an organized viewpoint on the Pokémon world. The acknowledgment of Pokémon like Alolan Raichu showcases the franchise’s diversity, yet it is Kyogre that enchants the hearts and minds of numerous players.

Ultimately, the conversation about the best Pokémon may never be entirely resolved, but it certainly adds depth to the community and enhances the appreciation for these extraordinary creatures.

**Gaming News Roundup: Death Stranding 2, Monopoly Star Wars, and More**

**Death Stranding 2 Leaked on PC Before Official Release**
In an unexpected development, *Death Stranding 2* has surfaced on PC prior to its official launch on Steam. A report from *PC Gamer* indicates that unprotected game files were made public due to an error on Valve’s platform. This iteration of the game does not incorporate Denuvo anti-piracy technology, which is typically effective against piracy but may ironically exacerbate it this time. The official release date is slated for March 19, introducing new features and live-action cutscenes that were excluded from the original launch. This leak could provide Sony with some reassurance as it contemplates removing its first-party titles from Steam.

**Monopoly Partners with Star Wars**
Ubisoft has revealed its forthcoming game *Monopoly: Star Wars Heroes vs. Villains*, set to launch on June 11. This fresh take on the beloved board game will feature team-based gameplay that highlights iconic characters from the *Star Wars* franchise, enabling players to leverage distinctive abilities that influence strategy. The game guarantees engaging gameplay elements, making each match a unique experience.

**Final Fantasy 9 Anime Makes a Comeback**
The *Final Fantasy 9* anime, named *Black Mages Legacy*, is said to be in production again after its original studio faced bankruptcy. This series will comprise 13 episodes, centering on Vivi and his magical allies, with a release date aimed for 2028. Fans are curious whether a remaster or remake of *FF9* will be unveiled ahead of the anime’s debut.

**Meta Stops VR Support for Horizon Worlds**
In a noteworthy shift, Meta has opted to cease VR headset support for *Horizon Worlds*, its 3D social media platform. Following substantial investment in the metaverse concept, the company has diverted resources, moving away from the VR-centric version of their platform to focus on a more user-friendly format akin to games like *Roblox*.

**Charlie Cox Continues His Journey in Video Games**
Charlie Cox, recognized for his role in *Daredevil*, disclosed in a recent interview that he will be embracing new roles in video games, subsequent to his participation in *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*. Cox conveyed enthusiasm about venturing into another game this year, which will demand more comprehensive effort from him. Anticipation grows regarding what his next project could be, with fans speculating about titles such as *The Witcher 4* or *Divinity*.

Stay tuned for more updates in the gaming realm as they unfold!

### The Motivating Triumph of “Tangy TD”: A Game Creator’s Path

In the frequently unpredictable realm of game creation, tales of authentic triumph serve as a reminder of why many chase this tough journey. Recently, a motivating story emerged surrounding indie game creator Cakez and his game, *Tangy TD*, a tower defense game that not only captivated players’ interest but also produced considerable revenue shortly after its launch.

#### A Pathway to Triumph

After four years of committed development, *Tangy TD* debuted to immediate praise, earning $32,000 in gross revenue within the first 30 hours. This accomplishment was not merely a numerical landmark; it represented an emotional victory for Cakez, who celebrated the occasion with his partner in a touching video that resonated widely across social media channels. The happiness conveyed in the video encapsulated the essence of what it means to achieve success in an industry where numerous games fade into obscurity.

The initial triumph of *Tangy TD* soon soared as the game gained momentum, culminating in nearly $250,000 in revenue. This extraordinary surge demonstrated the strength of community involvement and the viral possibility of genuine moments shared online. The clip of Cakez’s joyful response to this remarkable success gained significant traction, further enhancing the game’s profile.

#### The Game’s Features and Allure

*Tangy TD* distinguishes itself among countless tower defense games with its lively gameplay and chaotic combat scenarios. The vibrant visuals and engaging mechanics invite players to devise strategies in real-time, guaranteeing that each session feels fresh and exhilarating. This distinctive method, coupled with Cakez’s enthusiasm for game development, enabled *Tangy TD* to evolve into more than just another entry in a saturated genre.

#### The Truth of Game Sales

Despite the impressive revenue stats, it’s crucial to examine the realities behind game sales. According to SteamDB, *Tangy TD* sold 28,171 copies, with about 2,892 refunds processed. These figures shed light on the actual performance of the game, underlining that while the revenue seems considerable, it also represents the diligent effort and commitment involved in its creation.

It’s also pertinent to note that the calculated figures do not translate to the net income for the developer. After Valve’s 30% cut, Cakez’s total earnings would be around $138,492, or about $34,600 per year over the four years dedicated to development. This amount presents a realistic view of the financial outcomes of independent game creation, serving as a reminder that passion and persistence often entail financial challenges.

#### A Takeaway in Success Evaluation

The case of *Tangy TD* provides a meaningful case study for assessing success in the gaming sector. Conventionally, success is frequently gauged by metrics such as player count, revenue, or ratings, with many new games quickly classified as failures based on these figures. However, Cakez’s journey demonstrates that success can vary greatly based on context.

For a solo indie creator, a quarter-million dollars in revenue symbolizes a monumental success and justifies years of hard effort. This narrative encourages players and industry analysts alike to reassess how they define success in gaming—acknowledging that every developer’s journey is distinctive and worthy of celebration.

#### Advancing the Journey

As *Tangy TD* continues to sell and gain traction, Cakez hopes that the game sustains a long-term success, enabling him to experience more moments of joy and satisfaction. This story highlights the beauty of the indie game community—where creativity flourishes, and individual contributors can establish their place in the broader gaming landscape.

In summary, Cakez’s emotional and financial achievement with *Tangy TD* exemplifies the opportunities within the indie game landscape, inspiring future developers to follow their passions. Whether through triumphs or obstacles, every effort in game development marks a step toward achieving personal dreams and a distinctive vision for gaming.

**The Closure of Firewall Ultra: A Cautionary Narrative in Gaming**

In an unexpected shift, Sony has made the official announcement regarding the closure of its online-centric PSVR2 shooter, *Firewall Ultra*, with all online functionalities ending after September 17, 2026. This announcement, quite unusual for the gaming sector, was conveyed not via popular social media sites like Twitter or Reddit but through an updated blog entry from August 2023 that initially lauded the game’s launch.

Debuting on August 22, 2023, *Firewall Ultra* was a continuation of the highly praised *Firewall* for the original PSVR, which had secured a firm spot in the hearts of virtual reality enthusiasts. Despite the achievements of its predecessor, *Firewall Ultra* struggled to generate the same degree of interest, culminating in its present downfall.

The news regarding the game’s shutdown emerged when *Delisted Games* unearthed that the former celebratory blog post had been revised to include a somber update related to its future. The blog now serves as a eulogy for a game that had aspirations for ongoing development and player participation, showcasing a roadmap for post-launch content that has ultimately been forsaken as the game slips into obscurity.

In conjunction with the announcement, Sony has already taken *Firewall Ultra* off the PlayStation Store. This action indicates a wider trend in the gaming landscape where live-service titles can encounter sudden endings, leaving gamers without options. The studio responsible for *Firewall Ultra*, First Contact Entertainment, was disbanded in late 2023, marking not just the conclusion of the game, but also the end for the team behind its creation.

The subdued approach to this situation—favoring a straightforward blog update over more extensive communications through specialized gaming channels—has bewildered many within the community. In contrast, closures of similar nature from other games have typically been announced with greater fanfare and via more captivating platforms. Reports suggest that an update on a support page in Japan offered earlier closure details, highlighting a disconnect in how the information was shared globally.

Ironically, the updated blog post from Sony was also meant to generate enthusiasm about forthcoming content for *Firewall Ultra*, complete with embedded video content that has since been taken down from YouTube, further cementing the game’s shift from hopeful launch to forgotten relic. The narrative conveyed by the blog now encompasses disappointment, mirroring Sony’s journey with virtual reality ambitions that have waned as quickly as they surfaced.

While players grieve the impending demise of *Firewall Ultra*, it’s notable that the original *Firewall* continues to operate and maintains a committed player community, underscoring the unpredictable nature of gaming triumphs and durability. The shutdown of *Firewall Ultra* serves as a cautionary tale reflecting the precarious landscape of live-service gaming titles and the inherent challenges in sustaining player engagement in a swiftly transforming industry.