Gait Games

I’m jogging around. Has the gauge filled up to one bar yet? No. Well, back to jogging around it is. Time to politely salute the horrific mutant trying to attack me as I double back past it for the third time. Ooh, we have a bar. Right, time to whip out my pistol and – BANG, BANG. Shit, I forgot to wander up to point blank range and so have hit absolutely nothing. Well, back to jogging I go until the gauge fills again.

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## The Emergence of Ebola Village: A Contentious Resident Evil Imitation

The gaming arena frequently showcases groundbreaking titles, but now and then, certain releases ignite debate rather than praise. One such case is the recently launched game, *Ebola Village*, which has attracted attention for its obvious resemblances to the legendary *Resident Evil* franchise. Set within the context of gaming history, this article explores the components that render *Ebola Village* both an homage and a satire in the survival-horror realm.

### A Tribute to the Classics

*Ebola Village* is characterized as a “contemporary interpretation of a first-person adventure” where the player, taking on the role of the lead character Maria, investigates a sequence of enigmatic occurrences in a rural locale. However, the employment of the term “inspired” in promotional content raises suspicions, given that the graphics and gameplay mechanics bear a striking likeness to *Resident Evil*. Initial responses on social media platforms reflect dissatisfaction, with players questioning the game’s authenticity and its presence on official channels like PlayStation’s YouTube.

Despite its initial launch on PC last year, which received mixed critiques—one gamer humorously remarked, “This game is so poor it made me get Ebola irl”—the imitation has since built a fanbase, accumulating over 70,000 views on its trailer following its YouTube release. However, this reception also garnered around 7,400 downvotes, indicating substantial disapproval.

### Visuals and Gameplay Features

The visuals of *Ebola Village* prominently mirror those of the *Resident Evil* series. Opening sequences that depict a character driving into town showcase familiar attire, particularly the lead’s fingerless gloves, which closely echo those worn by *Leon Kennedy* in *Resident Evil 4*. In another sequence, a zombie-like foe throws an axe at Maria, accompanied by sound effects that appear to be borrowed from existing *Resident Evil* games, further obscuring the distinction between tribute and mimicry.

Furthermore, the game’s visuals, including its emblem, draw parallels to *Resident Evil* remakes, displaying a crimson “E” surrounded by white text. The visual choices combined with character dynamics that suggest seasoned heroes like Claire Redfield and Jill Valentine highlight a poorly concealed attempt to exploit cherished tropes in the survival-horror genre.

### Storyline Resemblances

The plot of *Ebola Village* starts to mesh with elements of the *Resident Evil* narrative, as Maria journeys to a village to see her mother and ex-husband, paralleling storylines from *Resident Evil Village*. The essence of recognizable gameplay is apparent as players confront a blend of classic horror components—such as eerie creatures and disquieting landscapes—that are characteristic of the *Resident Evil* experience. One might even observe a notable absence of a recognizable Lady Dimitrescu-like figure, raising inquiries about the creative decisions made by the developers.

### AI and the Prospects of Game Development

A fascinating aspect of the discussion surrounding *Ebola Village* is the conjecture that its promotional artwork may have been produced using artificial intelligence, demonstrating the increasing trend of AI involvement in game development and marketing tactics. As the gaming community engages with these themes, the AI-generated thumbnail introduces another layer of complexity to the ethical dilemmas concerning creativity and originality in contemporary game production.

### Conclusion: A Social Reflection

As *Ebola Village* prepares for its console release on January 23, it tests the limits of what defines homage and exploitation within the gaming sector. Whether regarded as a hastily constructed tribute to a beloved franchise or a misguided effort at creativity, the game unquestionably provokes dialogue about originality and the anticipated narratives of games in the survival-horror realm. The gaming community remains cautious yet intrigued about what *Ebola Village* genuinely has in store, serving as evidence of the impact and legacy of the *Resident Evil* franchise.

You know what South Park feels like to me? It feels like randomly waking up in the middle of the night, looking around your bedroom as you think “cripes, it’s still not morning yet?” A feeling of waiting for the inevitable, the end, or the beginning. Not so much the contents of the show, none of that needs all that much thought, more so its very existence, which is now apparently transplanting itself into Fortnite.

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### The Uplifting Journey of 95-Year-Old Anne Krohley: A Fresh Hope for Skill Mastery at Any Stage of Life

It’s never too late to master a new skill, as shown by Anne Krohley, an extraordinary 95-year-old grandma who has recently piqued the interest of the gaming world. With no prior background in first-person shooter (FPS) games, Krohley has showcased remarkable talent, outdoing over 24,000 players in a training regimen aimed at enhancing aiming skills.

#### A Unique Form of Success

In a recent tweet, professional FPS gamer ZachsMaxed shared a video featuring Krohley’s notable abilities in a game called *Aimlabs*. This program functions as an aiming training tool for gamers wishing to boost their shooting precision. The trial included in the video, known as Spidershot, focuses on speed and accuracy—traits essential for thriving in FPS gaming. Viewers were amazed to discover that Krohley is likely the oldest individual to use an aim trainer, and she outran many competitors half her age.

Krohley’s success is all the more remarkable considering she is legally blind, grappling with macular degeneration which significantly impacts her central vision. To accommodate her situation, she utilizes an enlarged crosshair in *Aimlabs*, enabling her to aim using her peripheral sight.

#### Performance Highlights

In the video posted by ZachsMaxed, Krohley exhibited extraordinary concentration and skill, hitting nearly every target during her practice session. Her outstanding performance enabled her to raise her previous score by 27%, which corresponds to around 2,700 points. For many, her capability to navigate this virtual environment at her age is not merely a rarity; it’s evidence of the potential for lifelong education and skill development.

#### Community Response

The gaming community’s response to Krohley’s impressive performance showcases a shared admiration for her tenacity and talent. The official *Aimlabs* Twitter account lauded her achievement as “incredible,” while other users fondly labeled her “the goat” (greatest of all time). Social media acts as a positive space, where numerous individuals shared their personal stories about older gamers who refuse to let age restrict their abilities.

#### A Wider Impact

Beyond motivating gamers on social media, ZachsMaxed directed followers to other ventures associated with Krohley, such as an exercise video aimed at those aged 70 and above meant to encourage physical fitness and mobility in later life, as well as a children’s book she wrote titled “The Tale of the Cat and the Ballet Mouse.”

Her efforts emphasize the diverse nature of her contributions beyond the gaming world, reinforcing the notion that age should not hinder personal development or contributions to society.

#### Conclusion

Anne Krohley stands as a brilliant illustration that anyone—regardless of age—can embark on new skills and thrive in them, irrespective of prior experience. Her story demonstrates that it’s never too late to embrace new challenges and that zeal and resolve can yield remarkable outcomes. As we honor Krohley’s accomplishments, we are reminded that the desire for learning and advancement knows no age boundaries.

If there were ever a dead horse that didn’t need so much flogging, it might be the Life is Strange series. Undeniably beloved by many, it has fallen victim to that whole franchising thing, having received an entry only in 2024 via Life is Strange: Double Exposure, a sequel game that was perhaps a little bit too messy. And here we are, in 2026, with PEGI potentially spoiling the reveal of a new entry in the series subtitled Reunion. Spoilers ahead for the game!

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# Delving into the Extraordinary: Liminal Spaces and the Indie FPS *Oddcore*

Liminal spaces have fascinated online communities, spawning a distinct genre of unsettling narratives that go beyond mere horror. While motifs like the “backrooms” may appear saturated, there persists an allure for obscured, disquieting locations in our surroundings. Desolate corridors, vacant hotel suites, and other neglected sites evoke an atmosphere of eeriness that is difficult to overlook. In a charming fusion of these themes with fast-paced action, the recently launched indie first-person shooter (FPS) *Oddcore* surfaces, delivering players a stylish and immersive gaming journey.

## What is *Oddcore*?

Now in early access on Steam, *Oddcore* plunges players into a peculiar, multi-layered universe. The storyline begins in a mundane fashion: players discover themselves at home, watching television, only to suddenly slip through reality into a strange theme park-like central hub known as Oddcore. This new dimension is filled with bizarre environments that challenge logic, urging players to navigate through liminal spaces while combating odd creatures using a variety of weapons, including firearms, blades, and special abilities.

## Gameplay Mechanics

The primary gameplay cycle entails exploring various liminal spaces, where players are tasked with fulfilling a range of objectives—spanning from vanquishing foes to gathering uncommon items. Each mission accomplished offers rewards, such as “souls,” which can be utilized to enhance the gameplay experience, such as prolonging survival time or restoring health. Moreover, between levels, players have the opportunity to visit vending machines for enhancements or crates that dispense random power-ups.

As players advance, they gather tokens through their achievements. In the hub world, there’s an appealing arcade featuring a slot machine where lucky spins yield tickets to acquire further gear. The straightforward yet engaging gameplay loop is crafted to keep players engrossed, who find themselves perpetually aiming for “just one more run.”

## Aesthetic Appeal

*Oddcore* distinguishes itself not only through gameplay but also via its visual design. The game adopts a retro boomer shooter aesthetic paired with whimsically bizarre monsters and settings that emphasize the surreal motifs of the game. A remarkable element is the optional VHS filter, which imbues the visuals with nostalgic scanlines, enhancing the overall atmospheric quality. Even in the absence of this filter, *Oddcore* retains a distinctive visual allure that enhances its appeal as an indie shooter.

## Conclusion

In essence, *Oddcore* unites the captivating notion of liminal spaces with addictive gameplay mechanics, striking visual elements, and a whimsical ambiance. As the game progresses through early access, it is set to attract a broader audience and build upon its already enthralling concept. Enthusiasts of both the eerie and the exhilarating will discover plenty to appreciate in this innovative title.

Back in September, studio game director Rich Lambert told GamesIndustry.biz that the Elder Scrolls Online team were exploring a move from big expansions to smaller, more frequent updates. Jump ahead four months and, well, that’s exactly what they’re doing.

Wait, stop running away from me, I’m not bringing you old news reheated like the last of the (now decidedly whiffy) Christmas turkey leftovers, I come bearing fresh details like… a freshly cooked turkey that is seasoned with patch notes and battlepass infographics.

Yum.

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**The Much-Expected Mega Evolution: An Odyssey Through Pokémon Legends: Z-A**

For countless Pokémon fans, the eagerness for fresh features and evolutions can seem everlasting. After more than ten years, the sought-after Mega Evolution for Raichu finally became available with the launch of *Pokémon Legends: Z-A*. This development ignited a surge of enthusiasm as players immersed themselves in the vibrant realm, especially delving into Lumiose City, a location inspired by Paris, overflowing with its distinctive charm and culture.

Engaging thoroughly with the game, players frequently found themselves wrapped up in its complex side quests and multitude of Pokémon to capture. As one player reminisced about their journey, the initial excitement began to wane as they concluded the content, leading to a more leisurely pace while they savored the stunning design of Mega Raichu, all the while awaiting the grand finale of their adventure.

Interestingly, the emotional ties to gaming moments extend well beyond gameplay mechanics; they capture personal feelings and reminiscences. A striking connection was made to a friend’s response to *Dragon Age: The Veilguard*. Even with favorable reviews, they hesitated to finish the game, linked to a sense of closure surrounding the realm of *Dragon Age* and its uncertain fate after recent difficulties faced by BioWare. This emotional complexity highlights a shared sentiment among gamers: the longing to extend the enjoyment of a cherished game, even if it means postponing the credits.

In the domain of *Pokémon*, the scenery feels particularly nostalgic and perpetually changing. As the gaming community eagerly awaits news regarding forthcoming generations, the debut of *Legends: Z-A* offered a new twist, permitting players to engage in real-time battles and a singular city environment. The hope shared among fans is for continued exploration and possibly further expansions that can prolong these treasured narratives rather than concluding the tale definitively.

The 120 hours devoted to *Legends: Z-A* and its content, especially in conjunction with Mega Raichu, signifies more than mere gameplay; it embodies an emotional commitment. The expedition through Lumiose City, interspersed with its quirky residents and distinctive ambiance, creates a sense of belonging that players often find hard to leave behind.

Ultimately, prolonging the life of a game can arise from various methods—less frequent gameplay sessions, revisiting familiar locations, and purposefully leaving tasks unfinished. The idea that the adventure isn’t over can offer a reassuring respite amidst the rush to transition to new titles emerging in the market.

As players ponder their rich experiences within the Pokémon realm, *Legends: Z-A* stands not just as a game but also as a collection of treasured memories and feelings, highlighting the crucial role that gaming plays in both entertainment and our personal lives. The blend of nostalgia and anticipation keeps the spark of excitement alive, ensuring that as we edge closer to new adventures, the delights of past experiences remain vivid.

A few years ago, it would have been pretty easy to imagine Helldivers 2 releasing as a free-to-play game. It is a live service game after all, most of those are free-to-play because studios want to reduce the barrier to entry. Instead, it launched as a paid-for, $40 game, a far cry from free, but not the $80-$100 releases we’re seeing more and more of. And it’s because Arrowhead made the decision to do so that Arc Raiders developer Embark did the exact same thing for their own shooter.

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### South Park x Fortnite Crossover Event Teased

Yesterday, the official [Fortnite Twitter](https://x.com/Fortnite/status/2008554318484709800?s=20) account teased an exhilarating partnership with the beloved animated series *South Park*. The tweet, which stated, “Chaos, loading…” along with a visual of Butters donning a gaming headset, sparked considerable excitement among fans. Within 24 hours, a complete trailer for the forthcoming crossover event surfaced online, exposing a plethora of new content.

Originally leaked on Twitter by user [@ShiinaBR](https://x.com/ShiinaBR/status/2008944351200903427?s=20) (with shares from the initial uploader [@imscouterr](https://x.com/imscouterr)), the trailer highlights the eagerly awaited character skins featuring Cartman, Stan, Kyle, Kenny, and Butters. Each character is portrayed in cardboard mech suits, likely crafted to fit the game’s visual standards.

Beyond character skins, the leak unveils *Cartmanland*, a revamped locale on Fortnite’s Season 7 map, inspired by Eric Cartman’s theme park from the classic *South Park* episode titled “Cartmanland.” This setting aims to immerse players in the whimsical yet disorderly universe of *South Park*.


Fans of *South Park* will pinpoint the tease as a reference to Butters’ alter-ego, Professor Chaos. This character has made appearances in various episodes of the series and in both of Ubisoft’s *South Park* video games, *The Stick of Truth* and *The Fractured But Whole*.

The trailer also showcases Towelie, *South Park’s* genetically engineered talking towel, hinting that he may be included as a cosmetic pet companion through the Battle Pass. Furthermore, the notorious Stick of Truth, a twig that the characters believed offered universal control, is emphasized in the trailer, although its use is not illustrated.

While exact details regarding the release date for the crossover event and skin prices remain undisclosed, additional information is anticipated to be shared on January 9th, along with a high-definition trailer version.

### Update

As of January 7, 2026, Epic Games has officially launched the full three-minute trailer for the *South Park* x *Fortnite* collaboration, which can be viewed [here](https://x.com/SouthPark/status/2008972095297130652). Fans are eagerly waiting for further announcements as the excitement surrounding this exceptional crossover continues to escalate.