Gait Games

### The Vanishing of *Aliens: Fireteam Elite* on Switch: A Warning for Cloud Gaming

In a recent turn of events that has raised alarm in the gaming community, *Aliens: Fireteam Elite*, a multiplayer shooter dependent on the cloud, has been removed from the Nintendo Switch. Users who had earlier acquired the game, including its $60 Ultimate Edition, are confronted with the stark truth that they can no longer reinstall it. This predicament comes merely three years after the game’s debut and underscores the increasing anxiety regarding cloud gaming on the Nintendo platform.

#### The Closure of Cloud Servers

According to several sources, including VGC, Nintendo alerted players earlier this year that the cloud servers for *Aliens: Fireteam Elite* would cease operation on August 5. Unlike conventional games, which can still be accessed offline if acquired, the cloud edition is entirely dependent on server functionality. Once the servers were decommissioned, the game became completely unplayable for those who bought it, leaving them without any options for recourse or backup.

#### Community Outrage and Worries

The sudden withdrawal of *Aliens: Fireteam Elite* has ignited considerable backlash within the gaming community. Numerous players took to platforms like Reddit to voice their discontent. One user summed up a common feeling: “This is precisely why I loathe the move towards digital and cloud gaming. We’re going to witness a lot more of this sooner or later.” Other remarks echoed a widespread disappointment in the concept of cloud gaming on the Switch, denouncing it as a “sh*tty experiment.”

The criticism extended beyond player reactions; industry figures, including Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick, who had forecasted growth in cloud gaming, encountered skepticism from gamers. Comments like “Almost like we aren’t just ‘dooming’ and this shit is for real,” illustrated the disenchantment with the prevailing cloud gaming landscape.

#### Nintendo’s Cloud Gaming Strategy

Initially, Nintendo had urged developers to embrace cloud gaming as a means of delivering demanding titles to the underpowered Switch. This initiative resulted in the launch of several prominent games, including *The Medium*, *Hitman*, and various installments in the *Resident Evil* and *Kingdom Hearts* franchises. However, with the introduction of more powerful hardware such as the anticipated Switch 2, developers are now assessing the practicality of native ports, stirring discussions about the future of cloud versions.

#### Future Implications for Players

As the gaming industry progresses, the prospects for cloud-based games appear uncertain. The forthcoming sequel to *Aliens: Fireteam Elite* is expected to debut on the Switch 2 this fall, leading to speculation regarding whether a native port will be provided to former owners of the cloud version. While some players express apathy toward those who invested in cloud-based games without safeguards, others point to precedents set by platforms like Google Stadia, which issued refunds for cloud game purchases during its service discontinuation.

#### Conclusion

The situation surrounding *Aliens: Fireteam Elite* serves as a stark reminder of the dangers linked to cloud gaming. As technology develops and gaming hardware advances, players must stay alert about the long-term sustainability of cloud-based titles. The recent occurrences emphasize the significance of transparency and consumer protection in an industry increasingly oriented towards digital and cloud gaming solutions.

### Steam’s Bounteous Refund Policy: A Case Analysis of Battlefield 6

Steam provides a notably accommodating refund policy that permits players to request refunds for titles if their playtime is under two hours. However, for duration exceeding that threshold, refunds are at Valve’s discretion. A recent incident involving the game **Battlefield 6** has generated significant attention and discussion regarding this policy, illustrating the possibility for exceptions.

A gamer under the username **ExplorEverythingOnce** turned to Reddit to recount their experience of successfully securing a refund after accumulating a remarkable **470 hours** in Battlefield 6. The player argued that the refund request was warranted due to major changes implemented in the game post-launch, where multiple game modes were eliminated without prior notification. Referencing these changes, the player communicated with Steam support to present their case.

In the widely circulated Reddit post, ExplorEverythingOnce detailed, “I reached out to Steam support and clarified that several game modes were taken out of the game without any notice nearly a year after the game’s debut.” They directed support agents to the official Battlefield website listing all available modes and a new community update that verified the removal of these modes. Their determination paid off, as the support agent recognized the validity of their argument, resulting in a full refund of **$109.24** for the Phantom Edition of the game.

The elimination of game modes, especially **Rush**, a favored attack-and-defend mode, sparked dissatisfaction among numerous players. Following a recent game update, fans observed that Rush mode had vanished from the available selections. Grievances on social media and official forums voiced discontent, with users emphasizing their unhappiness regarding the game’s changing nature and the loss of cherished features.

This event highlights the difficulties developers encounter in striking a balance between user experience and the continual modifications common in live-service games. Players invest not only time but also financial resources into these digital realms, making it understandable for them to seek redress when crucial aspects are altered or eliminated.

Interestingly, while Steam generally follows rigid refund regulations, this case prompts inquiries regarding how adaptable these policies might be based on the nature of a game’s modifications. Often, players of live-service titles like **Destiny 2** have contemplated pursuing refunds over several contentious updates, though service terms usually shield companies from such claims.

In this case, the involvement of a helpful customer service representative at Valve created an exception to the standard procedure, showcasing the possibility for flexibility in what is typically a strict policy framework. It leaves gamers contemplating whether tactical negotiations with customer support could produce similar results in the future, especially when significant game features are altered after purchase.

As the video gaming realm continues to trend toward live-service frameworks, this case will probably act as a standard for upcoming dialogues surrounding game updates, player rights, and the evolving landscape of refunds within the gaming sector.

# Getting Started in *Fields of Mistria*: Key Advice for New Players

Last week, I began playing *Fields of Mistria*, a game my friends have been buzzing about for ages during its early access phase, but which has only just launched fully at 1.0. And wow, my friends were spot on. This game is fantastic. It feels like *Stardew Valley* but with numerous quality-of-life enhancements and some fresh features influenced by both *Animal Crossing* and *Harvest Moon* on GameCube. I’m thoroughly enjoying it.

However, being a new game, there are aspects that differ from what I’m accustomed to in other titles of this genre, so I found myself a bit lost and bewildered during those initial days. I want to prevent you from experiencing the same confusion I did. Here are some tips based on the excessive hours I poured into this game over the weekend, ensuring your journey in Mistria begins seamlessly.

### For the Love of All That is Good, Upgrade Your Bag

Indeed, your bag space is woefully inadequate. You will encounter this issue in no time at all. I strongly urge you to spend your first 1000 gold on a Basic Pouch at the general store to gain ten additional spaces. That extra space will resolve many issues for quite a while, just take my word for it. There’s another bag upgrade that opens up later, but that first one is significantly more critical. It may seem pricey early on, but please **trust me** and avoid enduring hours in *Fields of Mistria* without sufficient bag space.

### Leave Items on the Ground

If your inventory is full and you spot an interesting bug or item, go ahead and capture it anyway. It will remain on the ground until you are able to retrieve it later. Letting it slip away will mean you miss out, but capturing it ensures you won’t lose anything. A short while into the game, you will also unlock a Lost and Found feature that collects everything you’ve left scattered around town and places it in a handy box for you.

### Converse with Everyone

And I mean everyone, every time you encounter them! Most simulation games like *Fields of Mistria* allow you to increase your affection with characters only a tiny bit, once a day, with NPCs delivering single, repetitive lines. However, the residents of *Mistria* have plenty to share. Whenever you see a speech bubble above someone, it indicates they have something new to discuss, and talking to them often will boost their affection for you more quickly than you might think. Being chatty pays off.

### You Can Leap

Yes, indeed, you can. Check your settings to find out which button this is assigned to in your controls, but don’t forget that jumping is an option! Jumping is beneficial as it helps you traverse obstacles and is also useful in combat for jump attacks. It’s easy to overlook that you can jump, but it proves to be quite handy in tight situations. You can also jump into the water, which is perfectly fine because…

### You Can Float

It might not be immediately clear when you start playing *Fields of Mistria*, but you can swim right from the beginning! Simply walk up to a body of water and use your jump button to dive in, then press it again to get back out. Swimming is enjoyable as it opens up areas that would otherwise be inaccessible. Additionally, there are dive spots marked by small bubbles in the water that you can swim to and interact with to discover treasures. Swimming does not consume energy, and the only downside is that you might scare away fish if you approach them too closely.

### Savor the Free Soup

You can visit the Inn once daily to enjoy a bowl of complimentary soup. Just interact with the pot over the fire in the main room’s back area. You’ll regain a bit of health and stamina each time. While it’s not a significant amount, it can be a lifesaver on days when you inadvertently push yourself too hard.

### Review Item Descriptions

If you’re keen on filling the museum (and you absolutely should be), there’s no need to run back and forth to the museum each time you want to confirm whether an item you possess is eligible for donation. When examining an item’s description, if it can be donated, there will be a small museum-shaped icon near the top. Adjacent to that icon is a tiny box. If you have already donated that item, a green checkmark will appear in the box. If not, it will remain empty, and you ought to keep that item for

### The Potential for Remaking Persona 1 and 2: Perspectives from Producer Wada Kazuhisa

It has recently been revealed that Wada Kazuhisa, the producer behind the renowned *Persona* series, possesses a strong desire to remake the first two installments of the franchise. While there are currently no concrete schemes to implement a comprehensive update of *Persona 1* and *2*, akin to the recent revamps of *Persona 3* and *Persona 4*, Kazuhisa conveyed his firm beliefs regarding the importance of this endeavor in a recent discussion with *Gamerbraves*. He remarked, “I believe it’s something we should certainly pursue. I think it’s imperative that we do so.”

#### The Development of Persona Remakes

Kazuhisa’s comments arise amidst the notable evolution that the *Persona* series has experienced over time. The forthcoming *Persona 4 Revival* stands as a quintessential instance of this progression. Scheduled for release next year, the remake promises a more cinematic storytelling experience, converting many formerly static dialogues into engaging in-game cutscenes. Kazuhisa highlighted the technological advancements enabling these modifications, stating, “We can now produce new cutscenes that are more immersive and lifelike than ever, utilizing various tools at our disposal.”

In addition, he tackled prevalent apprehensions about alterations to character traits and narratives—elements that are crucial to the audience. Kazuhisa reassured fans that the character attributes which have endeared players to the series will remain preserved, demonstrating a profound appreciation for the original content.

#### The Timely Opportunity for Remakes

Atlus, the creator behind *Persona*, has been actively revisiting and refining multiple titles within the *Shin Megami Tensei* and *Persona* franchises for current consoles. Recent endeavors encompass enhanced ports and remasters that resonate more effectively with today’s gamers. Given the favorable response to these initiatives and the expected launch of *Persona 4 Revival*, fans are speculating on what could follow. A remake of the initial two *Persona* games appears to be a fitting option, particularly considering that both titles have now surpassed two decades since their release.

*Persona 1*, originally known as *Revelations: Persona*, is marking its 30th anniversary this year. While there have been re-releases for these games, particularly for the PSP around 15 years ago, the longing for a full-scale remake underscores a wider trend in the gaming sector, where nostalgia and the desire to introduce classic titles to new audiences intersect.

#### Connecting Generations of Fans

Numerous players who now identify as *Persona* enthusiasts likely joined the franchise through titles such as *3*, *4*, and *5*. These later additions have influenced their perception of the series, and a remake would not only revitalize the original stories but also provide a new chance for newer fans to delve into the beginnings of a franchise that has evolved into a cultural sensation.

Kazuhisa’s vision for the future of *Persona* aims to connect different generations of gamers, enabling long-time fans to revisit beloved narratives and captivating characters while inviting newcomers to discover the series’ origins. As the gaming world keeps progressing, the possibility of remaking *Persona 1* and *2* remains an enticing prospect that could redefine the legacy of the franchise for many years ahead.

Fire up the Landy! Over the Hill, Funselektor and Strelka Games’ off-roader which takes the hardcore trail-running you get in a sim like SnowRunner and sands off the edges a bit to make for more chill countryside-roaming, finally has a release date. It’s set to motor onto the scene in October, following a Steam Next Fest demo which I dug.

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As the PlayStation 2 approaches the conclusion of its second year, Sony has pledged to invest in fresh and original ideas, positioning the PlayStation as a hub for creative, distinct, and daring games, setting it apart from Nintendo’s offerings. The continuous backing for varied gameplay experiences guarantees that gamers will keep enjoying a range of new and inventive titles. A standout illustration of Sony’s commitment to fostering such original concepts is Sly Cooper and the Thievius Racoonus, crafted by Sucker Punch Productions, recognized for Rocket: Robot on Wheels. This game is set to rank alongside notable 3D platformers like Banjo-Kazooie and Jak and Daxter for years ahead.

The storyline revolves around Sly Cooper, a delightful raccoon thief echoing Disney’s Robin Hood; nevertheless, Sly’s escapades are more centered on well-planned heists rather than humorous antics. He is depicted as sophisticated, adept, and captivating, frequently flirting with his police rival and romantic interest. Sly’s unique persona distinguishes him from other platforming heroes, establishing him as a potential all-ages icon for Sony. The game’s playful, anthropomorphic characters and classic noir style pay tribute to legendary 1960s animations like The Pink Panther and Secret Squirrel, further enhanced by a catchy jazz-inspired soundtrack that contributes to its lively ambiance.

While the visual and audio elements honor classic animation, Sly Cooper also brings innovation to gameplay by effortlessly merging conventional run-and-jump platforming with user-friendly stealth features. Players exploit Sly’s cane for direct confrontations but can also utilize stealth approaches, such as sneaking out of sight, concealing themselves along walls, and taking advantage of higher ground for strategic benefits. Although not as intricate as Metal Gear, Sly Cooper offers an accessible introduction to stealth gameplay. The design guarantees that interactions with the environment can be easily navigated using the DualShock 2 controller’s circle button, a vital component for players considering Sly’s susceptibility to enemy strikes.

Despite some frustrations (including tough racing sequences), it stands out as evidence of PlayStation’s ability to produce multiple innovative mascot platformers during the early phase of the PS2. In 2002, it is clear that while Sony may have been shortsighted in relinquishing legacy titles like Crash and Spyro, the future for 3D platformers looks bright, with high hopes for the new franchise. Sly Cooper and the Thievius Racoonus has established a high standard with its inaugural entry, showcasing a dedication to quality that fans hope will be maintained in its subsequent releases.

This article is a segment of the 2002 edition of Warp Week, a Kotaku series that revisits gaming history through a blend of retro reviews, retrospectives, and firsthand accounts.

**Starbreeze Entertainment Unveils TV Series Inspired by the Hit Heist Game ‘Payday’**

Starbreeze Entertainment is making its foray into television by announcing that a series inspired by its cooperative bank-robbing game, *Payday*, is underway. Though specific release timelines and streaming services remain undisclosed, the participation of renowned executive producer Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson has sparked significant enthusiasm in both the entertainment and gaming spheres.

In a statement about the collaboration, Starbreeze CEO Adolf Kristjansson noted, “*Payday* has always centered on the thrill of getting away with it. Curtis and G-Unit are not known for subtlety, and neither are we.” This partnership suggests a daring narrative approach, remaining faithful to the game’s focus on heists and high stakes.

The series will be created in conjunction with Jackson’s G-Unit Film & TV and Vice Productions. This aligns well with Jackson’s previous successes in producing crime dramas, notably the *Power* series on Starz, which has drawn in viewers with its gritty storylines and intricate characters. Given this background, expectations are elevated for how the *Payday* adaptation will convey the frenetic, adrenaline-charged action of the game in an episodic format.

It is yet unclear how the show will manage the game’s inherent chaos alongside the prospect of serious storytelling. Fans are intrigued to see if the adaptation will highlight the comedic elements found in certain game scenarios or adopt a more dramatic approach.

In light of the mixed feedback surrounding *Payday 3*, which faced a tough launch in 2023, this series signifies a crucial shift for Starbreeze as the company seeks to revitalize the franchise. Complementing the television project, the launch of the VR game *Payday Aces High* later this year showcases a focused effort to expand the *Payday* universe beyond conventional gaming, taking advantage of the brand’s lasting appeal.

As development moves forward, additional information regarding cast, plot, and release details will come to light. The collaboration between Starbreeze, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, and G-Unit Film & TV holds the promise of transforming how gaming franchises transition to television, and fans are keenly anticipating what should be an exhilarating new chapter for *Payday*.

### Resident Evil: A Film Diverging from Its Origins

**Introduction**

The movie “Resident Evil,” helmed by Paul W.S. Anderson, has elicited mixed responses from enthusiasts of the famed video game franchise. Although it shares the title and some aesthetic aspects, it significantly veers from the original content, prompting some to suggest it might have thrived under an alternative name like “Biohazard.”

**Plot Overview**

Featuring Milla Jovovich and Michelle Rodriguez, the film narrates the tale of a team dispatched to explore The Hive, a clandestine bioweapon facility sealed off by a rogue AI. Their assignment rapidly spirals into disorder as they confront the undead, resulting in a harrowing struggle for survival. The cast presents various personas who fail to capture much focus, primarily serving as fodder for the film’s horror themes.

**Departure from Source Material**

Critics point out that the film does not capture the spirit of the “Resident Evil” series. The initial potential for delving into a spooky mansion is forsaken in favor of a sterile medical research center, removing the atmospheric tension that characterized the games. Furthermore, cherished characters from the franchise are replaced by original figures, which could alienate dedicated fans. The film contains brief nods to the series, like the iconic Umbrella logo and familiar mutant beings, yet these do little to tether it to its gaming roots.

**Standalone Zombie Horror**

Even with its flaws as a video game adaptation, “Resident Evil” succeeds as an independent zombie flick. The movie features engaging action sequences and inventive killing methods that keep viewers captivated, reminiscent of cult favorites like “Cube.” It centers on survival horror elements that resonate well within the genre, despite straying from the franchise’s central storyline.

**Strong Female Leads**

A positive facet of the film is its robust female protagonists, including Jovovich’s character, an amnesiac unraveling her connections to the Umbrella Corporation, and Rodriguez’s resolute survivor. Their relationship adds depth and avoids dependence on male roles, aligning with modern discussions about female representation in media. The film notably passes the Bechdel Test, showcasing substantial interactions between women that do not center around men, a rarity in action cinema.

**Conclusion**

Although “Resident Evil” diverges considerably from the cherished video game series, it establishes itself as a capable zombie horror film. It introduces strong female characters and captivating action, offering a fresh viewpoint within a genre frequently led by male figures. If the ongoing adaptations can achieve a balance that integrates beloved aspects of the games with innovative storytelling, future installments in the “Resident Evil” film series may thrive.

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Hitherto, Turkish devs PiqFocus Interactive have specialised in cosy, laidback games like Lepidarium, in which you watch caterpillars bloom into gorgeous butterflies, and Easy Bubbles, in which you chillax with an aquarium of cute little fishies. Now they are making The Carcass, a text-based roguelike in which you carve out a colony inside the corpse of a spacegod.

I am… curious to know what happened. The obvious explanation is that PiqFocus employ or commission a variety of people with different tastes and interests – some are passionate about recreating the charming orange-black livery of the Gulf Fritillary, while others really get a kick out of things like *checks notes* “bile fermentation” and the concept of a floating “clot bazaar” where people gather to trade dried blood.

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