Gait Games

**Xbox’s Critical Demand for Successful Games: A New Strategic Approach Under Asha Sharma**

As Xbox embarks on a new chapter with CEO Asha Sharma at the helm, a definitive directive has surfaced: the gaming division needs to produce successful games at a significantly accelerated rate. Insights from *The Information* indicate that Sharma’s ambition is to reinvigorate the Xbox lineup by redistributing resources from underachieving studios and projects to concentrate more closely on significant franchises such as *Halo*, *Fallout*, and *The Elder Scrolls*. This strategic shift arises from Microsoft’s acknowledgment that to effectively compete in the gaming arena, it must leverage its most cherished and profitable titles.

### Resource Redistribution and Financial Limitations

The report suggests a stable development budget for the fiscal year 2027, indicating a reallocation of resources rather than an increase in financial backing. By scaling back on less successful pathways, Xbox aims to accelerate development timelines for its flagship franchises. For instance, it has been five years since *Halo Infinite* launched, and the pending *Halo: Campaign Evolved* is merely a remastered version, highlighting an urgent necessity for original content.

Additionally, *The Elder Scrolls VI* is reportedly still many years away, with *Fallout 5* anticipated to launch even later. Sharma’s initiative also aims to enhance *Minecraft*, which is falling behind rivals like *Roblox* concerning engagement and monetization.

### Corporate Structure and Future Perspectives

There are signs that Microsoft executives, including CEO Satya Nadella, have shown cautious endorsement for Sharma’s plans for resource reallocation, set to begin in July. However, the potential for an overall restructuring is on the horizon. This could involve converting Xbox into an independent subsidiary similar to LinkedIn or GitHub, forming a joint venture, or even divesting the division entirely. Future actions will largely hinge on the outcomes of Sharma’s strategic execution.

Experts agree that the success of these changes will be crucial in shaping Xbox’s long-term trajectory. If fruitful, it could strengthen Xbox’s standing in the gaming sector, but setbacks or limited advancement may prompt Microsoft to reevaluate its commitment to gaming altogether.

### Workforce Consequences

The restructuring is predicted to lead to considerable layoffs within Xbox, impacting numerous studios acquired during Phil Spencer’s leadership. While this mixed strategy intended to broaden Xbox’s Netflix-style subscription service was ambitious, it seems that Microsoft is now reverting to a focus on its conventional revenue-generating franchises.

Franchises such as *Halo*, *Forza Horizon*, and *Fallout* have demonstrated consistent success. The recent triumph of the *The Elder Scrolls IV* remake, which surpassed several newer titles, emphasizes the importance of established franchises in sustaining financial robustness.

### Upcoming Challenges

Despite these strategic transitions, substantial challenges persist. Accelerating game development in an environment where production costs are soaring poses a complex dilemma. Historically, Microsoft has encountered difficulties in delivering games timely with the quality required to engage audiences and earn accolades during major award cycles.

In a recent appearance on *Hard Fork*, Nadella stressed Sharma’s mandate to reevaluate priorities and regain fan confidence, asserting, “We must make this a sustainable business.” It’s evident that the pivot towards a more focused commitment to iconic franchises is a crucial move in redefining Xbox’s identity and securing its future in a competitive landscape.

As Xbox advances, the pressures of elevated expectations and the imperative to innovate remain critical, leaving fans both hopeful and anxious for the next generation of gaming adventures.

### Activist Investor Takeover Attempt at Kadokawa: Consequences for FromSoftware

The gaming sector is undergoing a notable transformation as activist investor Oasis Management initiates a takeover attempt at Kadokawa, the parent entity of FromSoftware, recognized for its highly regarded titles like *Elden Ring* and *Dark Souls*. This initiative targets the removal of Kadokawa’s CEO Takeshi Natsuno, primarily due to accusations of mismanagement, particularly concerning the association between FromSoftware and its publisher Bandai Namco.

#### Core Concerns Raised by Oasis Management

In a comprehensive presentation, Oasis Management contends that under Natsuno’s stewardship, FromSoftware is forfeiting considerable revenue potential by permitting Bandai Namco to oversee the publishing of its games. A notable instance cited is *Elden Ring*, which was published by FromSoftware domestically while Bandai Namco managed international markets. The statistics reveal that over 90% of the game’s sales transpired outside Japan, prompting Oasis to determine that Kadokawa has not sufficiently leveraged the game’s triumph.

Oasis underscores that the expanding capabilities of Kadokawa, coupled with the increasing trend of digital game distribution, render self-publishing a more feasible alternative than ever. The firm claims that Kadokawa’s former management strategies once incorporated self-publishing plans, which were subsequently abandoned, harming shareholder interests. They propose that if FromSoftware were to launch another significant hit like *Elden Ring*, the lack of self-publishing could once more lead to substantial value loss to outside publishing partners.

#### Obstacles of Self-Publishing

Although the allure of self-publishing exists, FromSoftware confronts specific challenges. The company completely owns the trademark for *Elden Ring*, enabling it to self-publish a possible sequel. However, franchises such as *Dark Souls*, *Demon’s Souls*, and *Bloodborne* are not entirely owned, necessitating negotiations with Bandai Namco and Sony for any new editions. This absence of control over its successful intellectual properties highlights the issues raised by Oasis: FromSoftware may not be positioned to optimize its financial prospects due to dependence on external allies for major titles.

Nevertheless, FromSoftware’s forthcoming project, *The Duskbloods*, is entirely owned by the company, potentially signaling a pivot towards self-publishing in the future. The development timeline for video games is also significant; prior commitments, such as the collaboration with Bandai Namco for *Elden Ring*, were established before Natsuno assumed the role of CEO, which constrains immediate alterations in publishing tactics.

#### Shareholder versus Creative Aspirations

The aims of Oasis Management bring forth inquiries regarding the equilibrium between shareholder returns and the creative independence of game developers. The firm has previously advocated for radical shifts in businesses, such as recommending that Nintendo transition to mobile free-to-play models. This history raises doubts about the feasibility of their suggested tactics for FromSoftware, as they may not correspond with the long-term aspirations of the company or the gaming community.

Moreover, fan apprehensions regarding the impact of an activist investor on creative processes are evident. Director Hidetaka Miyazaki has voiced a commitment to upholding the existing environment of creative liberty at FromSoftware. He emphasizes the significance of focusing on game development without excessive external interference, implying that any substantial leadership changes instigated by Oasis could disrupt the organizational creative flow.

#### Consequences for the Future

The resolution of this dispute and its ramifications for FromSoftware will become more evident at Kadokawa’s forthcoming general shareholders’ meeting on June 24, where a vote regarding Natsuno’s position will occur. The result will predominantly hinge on the ensuing leadership direction and the degree of Oasis’s impact over prospective management.

As the environment shifts, industry stakeholders and fans will keenly observe whether this activist initiative prompts a reorganization of how FromSoftware functions, in terms of both publishing and creative strategy, and if it ultimately boosts or impairs the company’s outlook in the competitive gaming landscape.

The shift from traditional to digital gaming has profoundly affected physical retail environments, with GameStop being one of the notably impacted companies. As shelves become more populated with toys and collectibles, such as Pokémon cards, the interest in owning physical games has diminished. The decline in physical sales has led GameStop to reconsider its business model, especially regarding its Pro Membership initiative.

At present, GameStop’s Pro Membership provides a 2% rewards system on purchases, enabling members to gather points that can be exchanged for discount vouchers. Nonetheless, a recent internal communication has disclosed that GameStop intends to discontinue this points system. Beginning July 15, 2026, new members will stop accumulating points, while existing members must renew their subscriptions prior to this deadline to continue earning points until they expire on August 15, 2026.

In spite of these alterations, the annual cost of the Pro Membership will stay at $25, even as the advantages decrease. Previously, members enjoyed a subscription to Game Informer, which is no longer part of the offering. This situation has raised alarm among employees regarding the practicality of promoting the membership to disgruntled customers, especially considering the difficulties in redeeming points via their point-of-sale systems.

As GameStop undergoes this transition, employees have voiced their discontent about the organization’s trajectory. They encounter heightened sales pressures while receiving compensation below market standards. Some staff members have proposed a boycott of the Pro Membership as an act of dissent against the recent changes, encouraging their peers to unite in withdrawing their support for the program to convey to management that the decision to abolish the points system was ill-conceived.

The circumstances at GameStop underscore the larger challenges faced by brick-and-mortar retailers in a progressively digital economy, compelling them to innovate or face extinction. As the company strives to shift towards new revenue avenues, both employee experiences and customer satisfaction seem to be more uncertain than ever. GameStop has not issued a public statement regarding these matters, leaving employees and members in a state of uncertainty about the company’s future path.

### Microsoft’s Takeover of Activision Blizzard and Its Effect on Xbox

In December 2023, Microsoft completed its landmark $70 billion takeover of Activision Blizzard, signaling a major transformation in the gaming industry. This acquisition established Microsoft as one of the foremost third-party publishers in the market, resulting in Xbox exclusives like *Sea of Thieves* being made available on PlayStation 5. Such moves aligned closely with the company’s objective of broadening its gaming repertoire and appealing to a wider audience.

#### The Hurdles Facing Xbox After the Acquisition

By 2025, even with a number of high-profile releases on Xbox and an increase in new titles for Xbox Game Pass, the success of these games did not correspond with strong sales figures. Specifically, *The Outer Worlds 2* faced challenges in achieving the sales needed to secure the future of the franchise. This pattern underscored broader problems within Microsoft’s gaming division, where both software and services recorded a 5% drop in revenue during the second and third quarters of the fiscal year. Microsoft’s CFO, Amy Hood, linked these difficulties mainly to declining sales of the *Call of Duty* series, especially between the launches of *Black Ops 6* and *Black Ops 7*.

The latest release in the series, *Black Ops 7*, encountered fierce competition from other multiplayer titles and did not reach high sales figures upon its release. It was not even listed among the best-selling games in April 2025, in stark contrast to its predecessor, which enjoyed much better sales within the same period.

#### The Tactical Shift and Market Response

The lackluster performance of *Call of Duty* has led to reevaluations within Microsoft, particularly about its pricing approach for Game Pass. After including *Call of Duty* titles in the service, Microsoft raised the Game Pass subscription fee to $30—a decision that backfired, resulting in a sharp decline in subscriber numbers. Xbox’s new chief strategist, Matthew Ball, reported a loss of millions of subscribers, underscoring the delicate balance Xbox must sustain between expanding its user base and managing content accessibility on Game Pass.

To stabilize subscriber figures, Microsoft revised its strategy by excluding new *Call of Duty* titles from Game Pass at launch and lowering the subscription price, although it stayed above pre-acquisition rates. This adjustment reflected a responsive approach to reduce subscriber attrition and attract new customers.

#### The Outlook for Xbox and Activision Blizzard

Looking forward, the fate of *Modern Warfare 4*, set for release later this year, will be crucial for Xbox’s path. Strong performance could rekindle interest in the *Call of Duty* franchise and restore faith in Xbox’s gaming lineup. On the other hand, if *Modern Warfare 4* underperforms amid intensifying competition from major titles like *Grand Theft Auto 6*, the consequences could be significant, especially for smaller games in Microsoft’s lineup.

Asha Sharma, the recently appointed Xbox CEO, acknowledged the obstacles ahead and underscored the necessity for improved funding and balancing of diverse gaming franchises to enhance competitiveness. Recognizing that *Call of Duty* is a pivotal element in Microsoft’s strategy, the company’s future funding priorities will be vital for navigating the changing gaming environment.

In conclusion, Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard has resulted in major shifts in its gaming strategy, characterized by both opportunities for growth and challenges that could impact its core business. The dynamic nature of the landscape requires continual adjustments to both game offerings and subscription structures as Microsoft aims to leverage its newly acquired assets while sustaining subscriber growth and game viability.

In case you missed the opening night of this year’s Summer Geoffs, Like A Dragon/Yakuza devs RGG Studio’s Japanese history-hopping crime brawler Stranger Than Heaven got a release date. That was rather overshadowed, however, by the reveal that it’ll feature a digitally resurrected version of rapper Tupac Shakur. While not the first deceased face to be confirmed as featuring in the game, that honour went to Japanese actor Bunta Sugawara, Shakur’s inclusion naturally raised a lot of eyebrows. RGG boss Masayoshi Yokoyama’s now spoken in more depth about the decision to include Tupac’s likeness in a game about the origins of the Tojo Clan.

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Gotcha Gotcha Games, a division of Kadokawa Corporation and the holder of the intellectual property rights for the RPG Maker franchise, has revealed the upcoming shutdown of the RPG Maker Forum, a community center that has been in operation for 14 years. The forum is set to close on December 11, 2026. In its stead, a new platform known as RPG Maker Guild will be introduced, but this transition has raised significant concerns within the community, particularly because Gotcha Gotcha Games has opted not to archive the content from the original forum.

This announcement was officially conveyed via a post on the RPG Maker Forum, along with a FAQ that explained the rationale behind the closure. The FAQ clearly mentioned, “There are currently no plans to provide a public archive or backup of the current forum once it has been closed.” Consequently, the RPG Maker community is racing against the clock to salvage important posts, guides, resources, and other content essential to the RPG Maker ecosystem.

The weight of this situation has led to historical comparisons, with many users equating the forum’s imminent shutdown to the burning of the Library of Alexandria. While some may deem such parallels excessive, the comparison arises from the substantial loss of knowledge and resources that will occur. The forum’s Legacy Engine support thread alone is said to contain about 45,600 threads and 280,000 messages, underscoring the extensive contributions from the community over the years.

The potential ramifications extend beyond hobbyist developers; they encompass a variety of esteemed indie games that owe their creation to RPG Maker, including OFF, Omori, Corpse Party, Fear and Hunger, Ao Oni, and Yume Nikki. The developmental histories and dialogues concerning these games are stored in the forum, making their preservation essential for understanding the growth of indie game development through this platform.

Fortunately, the official announcement has granted a six-month period for community members to start backing up their content prior to the forum’s closure. A proactive member of the RPG Maker community has even reached out for help from the r/DataHoarders subreddit, organizing efforts to ensure that crucial resources and discussions are archived.

In conclusion, the shutdown of the RPG Maker Forum signifies a considerable loss for the RPG Maker community and indie game developers. Despite the introduction of RPG Maker Guild, the absence of archival measures for the original forum raises concerns regarding the sustainable legacy of RPG Maker, as its resources and knowledge base remain at risk of vanishing entirely. The need for community members to take action in preserving what they can has never been more urgent.

Crimson Desert. It’s basically an everything game at this point, so it’s not too suprising that the latest update developers Pearl Abyss have put out takes the Red Pudding further down the road of being a Nintendogs competitor. The number of pets you can tame as you wander around Pywel has been growing gradually since launch and you can now have up to 100 of them. That seems dangerously impractical, but hey, video game.

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**The Debate Over Tupac’s Role in Ryu Ga Gotoku’s *Stranger Than Heaven***

In the world of video game design, the creative decisions made by studios frequently ignite discussion and controversy, especially when they pertain to the posthumous depiction of legendary figures. The incorporation of Tupac Shakur in Ryu Ga Gotoku’s forthcoming title, *Stranger Than Heaven*, has ignited considerable dialogue, leading the developers to elucidate their intentions and reasoning for this choice.

The initial reveal surprised many, particularly due to the intricacies of reviving a cultural icon who has been gone for more than 25 years. Masayoshi Yokoyama, the leading figure at RGG Studio, mentioned that the proposal to include Tupac stemmed from a suggestion by Snoop Dogg, who will also appear in the game as a character named Orpheus. Rather than simply replicating Tupac as he was at the time of his death, Yokoyama indicated that the team aspires to “imagine who Tupac could be now” if he were still alive today. This imaginative approach positions Tupac’s character as a speculative portrayal, developed with involvement from his family and rights holders, instead of a straightforward duplication.

Yokoyama detailed the development journey, underscoring their aim to produce a modern portrayal that resonates with current audiences. The development team aims to tackle significant inquiries regarding Tupac’s possible growth—how he might articulate himself and react to prevailing social challenges. While this goal demonstrates a degree of reverence and an effort to honor Tupac’s memory, it also raises moral questions about the ethics of such fictional portrayals.

Critics contend that trying to create a contemporary version of Tupac is fundamentally problematic. Representing a deceased person as a character imbued with invented emotions and beliefs might come off as insincere. Although Yokoyama recognizes the importance of maintaining authenticity, any adaptation of Tupac’s persona in the game will inevitably lack the individuality and depth of the man himself. The lack of Tupac’s personal agency in conveying thoughts, emotions, and actions casts a pall over the developers’ aspirations.

The justification for featuring Tupac in the game suggests a strategy to utilize his fame to boost the game’s allure. Yokoyama openly mentioned that including Tupac would “add value” to the game, illustrating a clear acknowledgement of the marketing advantage associated with his name. This indicates a commercial dimension to the decision-making process, wherein the objective appears to be generating excitement and attracting a wider audience, potentially overshadowing the thematic and ethical considerations involved.

Despite the developers’ respectful aims, the idea of digitally reviving a cultural icon brings forth significant ethical dilemmas regarding representation, legacy, and the commercial exploitation of art. The conversation surrounding Tupac’s portrayal in *Stranger Than Heaven* mirrors larger discussions about authenticity in creative fields and the responsibilities tied to depicting historical figures.

As Ryu Ga Gotoku gears up for the launch of *Stranger Than Heaven*, the road ahead remains laden with intricacies. As fans and critics eagerly anticipate the game’s release, the discourse around Tupac’s inclusion continues to unfold, emphasizing the fragile balance between creativity and reverence when addressing the legacies of those who have departed.

Following some instances of Forza Horizon 6 players losing saves and ending up having to start over from scratch, developers Playground Games are starting to roll out fixes. For PC folks, they’re advising a check that the latest version of Microsoft Gaming Services is running, as the app is the way PC-centric fixes for the issue are being rolled out.

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# The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales – A Game Developed with Player Input

The current gaming environment frequently showcases free demos, network tests, or open betas that provide players with insights into forthcoming games. While many developers implement changes driven by player feedback, not all studios openly reveal these modifications. Nevertheless, *The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales* emerges as a significant exception. This forthcoming title from Team Asano and Square Enix has been profoundly influenced by player contributions, resulting in major improvements that underscore a dedication to engaging with the community.

## Major Revisions From Player Input

Following the release of the introductory demo of *The Adventures of Elliot* last year, the developers created a list of alterations that brought about substantial revisions rooted in player recommendations. Among these changes were simplified menu systems for quicker access to weapons and abilities, notable modifications to the Magicite equipping process for character setups, an enhancement in Elliot’s fundamental movement speed, and the addition of various difficulty modes. These updates extend beyond mere polish or small adjustments; they represent a committed endeavor by the development team to improve gameplay informed by the community’s insights.

One notable change came unexpectedly to the developers: players voiced their discontent regarding Faie, Elliot’s fairy partner, claiming her excessive dialogue was irritating. Producer Naofumi Matsushita acknowledged that the team, having grown fond of Faie during the lengthy development phase, had not perceived her dialogue as troublesome. In response, the team has implemented an option to lessen her dialogue frequency, directly addressing player feedback.

## Development Insights

In a discussion, Matsushita reminisced about the game’s progression. He disclosed that, inspired by their previous creations such as *Octopath Traveler*, the team shifted toward the action RPG genre to engage a wider audience. The game’s development started with sequential prototypes rigorously focused on action mechanics, incorporating combat systems and movement dynamics. Gradually, as they refined Elliot’s character and Faie’s function, they experienced a substantial developmental pivot toward crafting an immersive action RPG experience.

Team Asano strived for a character-driven storyline, enabling players to connect with Elliot as he navigated different periods and confronted various trials. This character-focused approach signaled a shift away from the ensemble casts typical of earlier titles and was a deliberate choice aimed at cultivating a stronger bond between players and the main character.

## Nostalgic Inspirations and Throwbacks

*The Adventures of Elliot* aspires to evoke the nostalgic aesthetics of earlier Square Enix games while presenting an innovative narrative. While it takes cues from iconic RPGs like *Final Fantasy* and *Chrono Trigger*, the developers stress that the game is not simply a tribute but a distinct interpretation that conveys their appreciation for these classic titles.

Matsushita expressed that the gameplay is crafted to embody a timeless tale while encapsulating the spirit of past Square Enix creations. Elements such as character interactions, emotional richness, and exploration of historical narratives emphasize this goal.

## Gameplay Innovations

The game sets itself apart from other HD-2D titles by centering on a single main character and adopting action-focused gameplay. This transition presents a new challenge for developers accustomed to juggling multiple character narratives and abilities. Each weapon featured in the game possesses distinct mechanics, offering varied combat experiences that heighten player engagement.

Moreover, the team has integrated user-friendly menu systems and accessibility options such as adaptable difficulty levels to ensure that the game remains inviting for both seasoned players and newcomers to the action RPG genre.

## Future Prospects

As *The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales* gears up for its launch on June 18 across multiple platforms, its dedication to incorporating player feedback and enhancing gameplay is apparent. The developers’ method represents an emerging trend in the gaming industry where player insights can profoundly influence game creation.

Fans can also anticipate a soundtrack that harmonizes with the game’s adventurous motifs, composed by Tomohiro Nakamichi and Yuto Moritani. With an extensive array of original compositions and additional tracks, players are encouraged to expect a memorable audio experience that enhances the visual storytelling.

In conclusion, *The Adventures of Elliot* aims not only to provide captivating gameplay but also serves as a testament to the significance of community feedback in influencing contemporary gaming experiences.