Gait Games

If you’ve played Guild Wars or its sequel, you’ll know that the land Tyria is a godless place. It didn’t used to be, but more than 1200 years before the events of the original 2005 MMO, the gods upped sticks and abandoned the planet, leaving the different guilds their own devices. As the series’ name would suggest, those devices were largely swords and siege weapons.

In looking for a good spot in the series’ timeline to set a new game that would be as alien to people who have played the games for the past 20 years as those who have never set foot in the land of Tyria, developer Arenaet have settled on the moment the gods decided to leave.

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**The Muppets Take Charge: A Fresh Chapter for The Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios**

The Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has experienced a remarkable overhaul with the official substitution of Aerosmith by The Muppets, introducing a new, family-centric theme. This change responds to a long-standing issue that Aerosmith, despite their stature in the rock world, didn’t fully fit Disney’s wholesome persona. The initial connection to Aerosmith was primarily due to their 1998 hit “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” which appeared in the Disney film *Armageddon*. However, this link felt fragile at best, as the song was not part of the coaster’s musical lineup.

Although Aerosmith’s tracks provided exhilarating experiences, especially the thrill of being propelled from 0 to 57 mph in less than three seconds, selecting a band famous for their rock and roll lifestyle—marked by drugs and promiscuity—was arguably out of sync with Disney’s family-focused mission. Disney World is fundamentally a fantastical environment for children and families, cultivating a party vibe that leans more towards cupcakes than rock concerts.

The ride experience itself struck a balance of thrill, with adrenaline junkies relishing a dark, indoor adventure complete with extreme inversions and an energetic soundtrack featuring rock anthems. The music offered an exciting mix, although some selections, like “Dude (Looks Like a Lady),” did not resonate with every visitor.

With the new Muppet-themed attraction, the narrative remains set in the fictional G-Force Records studio. Guests now wait through a delightful pre-show showcasing beloved Muppets, including cameos from various celebrities. This refreshed theme not only aligns better with Disney’s overarching brand but also enriches the experience with the humor and whimsy synonymous with the Muppets.

In the newly designed queue area, visitors encounter original video material depicting Muppet interactions with various renowned personalities. The transformation includes an abundance of Muppet memorabilia, enhancing the playful atmosphere of the line. The humor is filled with Muppet-style jokes, with Scooter’s antics and Dr. Teeth and The Electric Mayhem rehearsing for a performance adding to the charm.

The ride itself has been reimagined with new props and a soundtrack packed with covers performed by The Electric Mayhem and guest artists. The animated character of Scooter as the ride’s manager—voiced by a live performer—further amplifies the vibrant Muppet experience. Nonetheless, while the new music is engaging, some critics contend that it lacks the signature impact of Aerosmith tracks, with songs like “Song 2” bringing a more Muppet-like vibe.

Despite minor criticisms regarding the music, the shift from Aerosmith to The Muppets signifies a successful and considerate retheming of a cherished attraction. This transformation not only preserves the ride’s thrilling physical elements but also infuses a richer sense of character and humor that appeals to audiences across generations.

As Disney continues to evolve its attractions to maintain alignment with its family-friendly values, *The Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets* serves as a testament to this commitment, demonstrating that the charm of the Muppets has found not just a substitute, but an appropriate place in the heart of Disney World.

Oh dear, here’s an existentially uncomfortable (and genuinely potentially triggering around themes of abuse) one for you. Am I Nima, shown off this weekend during the Story Rich Showcase, is a visual novel in which you take on the role of the titular Nima, who is trying to convince her mother that she really is her daughter by combining words in her brain.

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# Announcement of Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen Expansion

In a surprising development, Capcom has revealed an expansion for the beloved action RPG, **Dragon’s Dogma 2**, named **Dark Arisen**. This revelation took place during a Nintendo Direct event, generating enthusiasm and astonishment, particularly since the game has been available for over two years with no significant updates or announcements about new content.

## Expansion Overview

The new **Dark Arisen** broadens the game’s world by introducing a brand-new area, the **Norgan region**, noted for its icy scenery and deserted towns. Players will set off on fresh quests and interact with new characters, including a mysterious individual dubbed **Eir**, who plays a crucial role in uncovering mysteries within this desolate region. Moreover, the DLC will include additional dungeons, weapons, and skills to further enrich the gameplay experience.

## Existing Player Challenges

While the announcement is exciting, there are worries for current players wishing to explore the new content. **Dragon’s Dogma 2** employs a single-save system, which prevents players from easily reverting to earlier choices or save points. The game’s mechanics ensure that significant decisions have enduring consequences, adding complexity but potentially posing hurdles for those wanting to engage with new content after finishing the primary storyline.

A critical source of concern is the **point of no return** that arises near the game’s end. Upon reaching this juncture, players will be unable to revert to their former status in the game world, effectively barring them from accessing the newly added content unless they initiate a new game from the beginning. This situation can be particularly intimidating for players who completed the game more than a year ago and wish to dive directly into the expansion.

## Capcom’s Initiatives to Address Concerns

Capcom seems to recognize these issues and is implementing quality-of-life enhancements alongside the expansion to enable a more seamless experience for returning players. These updates will include improvements to the **fast travel** system, which has historically been constrained, and various “save system enhancements” that may suggest the possible introduction of multiple save files.

Additionally, the forthcoming updates before the expansion’s launch are designed to make the transition into the new content smoother. Players will gain access to **New Game+**, allowing them to progress at their previous level while keeping their skills and abilities. However, players will still need to traverse the vast world, possibly repeating quests to reach new areas, which could be time-intensive.

## Expected Release and Availability

**Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen** is scheduled to launch on **October 9**, coinciding with the game’s debut on the **Nintendo Switch 2**. The expansion will be part of the Switch 2 edition but will be available as a separate paid expansion on other platforms. As anticipation builds, players are hopeful that Capcom will focus on accessibility, allowing those eager to explore the new content without needing to engage in another lengthy playthrough of the base game.

In conclusion, while the revelation of the **Dark Arisen** expansion for **Dragon’s Dogma 2** is a delightful surprise, it presents challenges for existing players. The enhancements planned by Capcom appear promising, but the success of these adjustments in facilitating access to the new content will ultimately influence the expansion’s reception among the dedicated fanbase.

Welp! Just yesterday, Sand: Raiders of Sophie devs Hologryph and TowerHaus shared the release times of the desert-set extraction shooter where you have your own steampunk mobile fortress, which was set for release tomorrow, June 10th. Today, however? That release date has gone out the window.

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**The Summer Game Fest Season: A Tsunami of New Titles**

The Summer Game Fest season has wrapped up following the latest Nintendo Direct, showcasing an unparalleled number of video game launches slated for the coming months. This influx appears to be a calculated effort by developers to steer clear of overlapping with the much-anticipated debut of *Grand Theft Auto 6* on November 19, 2023. While the excitement surrounding this abundance of new releases is palpable, the reality reveals that the gaming arena is becoming congested, as numerous games compete for attention in a compressed timeframe.

As the industry prepares for this seasonal deluge, the roster of forthcoming releases has expanded to an astonishing extent. From late August to early November, players can look forward to a wide variety of launches:

– **August 27**: *Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy*, *Star Wars Zero Company*
– **August 28**: *Elden Ring Tarnished Edition* (Switch 2)
– **September 3**: *The Blood of Dawnwalker*, *Orbitals*
– **September 8**: *Halloween*
– **September 10**: *Screenbound*
– **September 15**: *Wolverine*
– **September 17**: *Trine 6*, *Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War IV*, *Trails in the Sky 2nd Chapter*, *Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave*
– **September 18**: *Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight* (Switch 2)
– **September 22**: *Dune Awakening* (console release)
– **September 24**: *Valor Mortis*, *Hot Wheels Infinite Rush*, *Control Resonant*, *Silent Hill: Townfall*
– **September 25**: *Onimusha: Way of the Sword*
– **September 29**: *Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve* (Early Access)/Oct. 2, *Minecraft Dungeons 2*
– **October 1**: *Rayman Legends Retold*, *Dynasty Warriors 3 Remastered*
– **October 6**: *Gears of War: E-Day*, *Star Wars: Galactic Racer*
– **October 8**: *Kingdom Hearts 1-3* Switch 2 ports
– **October 9**: *Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen*
– **October 13**: *Planet Zoo 2*, *Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse*, *Toy Story Retro Round Up / Toy Story 3 Remaster*
– **October 16**: *Tales of Eternia Remastered*
– **October 22**: *Final Fantasy Resonance*, *Nintendo Switch Sports Resort*
– **October 23**: *One Piece Grand Gourmet*, *CoD: MW4*
– **October 29**: *Hello Kitty Party Land*, *Phantom Blade Zero*
– **November 3**: *Godzilla Destroy All Monsters*

This extensive compilation showcases diverse genres and formats—from AAA titles to indie games and remakes—raising concerns regarding the prudence of launching so many games in such a tight timeframe. The risk of promising games being overshadowed is significant, potentially affecting both sales and the overall recognition of quality titles. Games might get lost amid the cacophony, making it essential for their discovery and initial purchase for success.

**Reasons to Consider Postponing Releases**

Amidst the thrill, it’s essential to recognize the logistical hurdles presented by this congested schedule. Many developers and publishers might find advantages in contemplating delays. Here’s why:

1. **First Impressions Are Crucial**: The gaming sector thrives on initial buzz. A game’s success frequently depends on its opening week, where word of mouth and visibility can steer its performance. A lackluster debut in a packed release window can prove harmful.

2. **Market Congestion**: When numerous titles launch concurrently, they vie for consumer interest. This competition might lead to games being overlooked, reducing their potential in the market and resulting in sales disappointments.

3. **Media Coverage Difficulties**: For gaming journalists and content creators, reporting on a high number of launches is an exhausting endeavor. Even the best-established media platforms find it hard to ensure comprehensive coverage, which can further hide deserving games.

4. **Tactical Timing**: Some developers could opt to release their games strategically around the *GTA 6* launch. While competing with such a major title seems risky, thoughtful timing could offer a brief period of visibility before the floodgate opens.

As the new wave of games approaches, the industry must navigate these challenges with caution. An extended launch schedule could favor gamers, developers, and media alike. For the time being, players should brace for what’s ahead, stay patient, and take a measured approach to engaging with this upcoming wave.

That company that makes the games about the plumber man, elf boy, and half-donkey half-gorilla held one of its “Directs” today, and lo and behold was the surprise showcase of a game that’s been MIA for a surprisingly long time: Kingdom Hearts 4. The sequel was originally announced for the series’ 20th anniversary in 2022, but has been noticeably absent for the past four years.

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# The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Its Quirky Little Characters

*The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time* is celebrated as one of the finest games ever created, establishing a benchmark for 3D adventure titles with its 1998 launch and still shaping the gaming landscape today. In addition to its innovative gameplay and captivating storyline, it features a vibrant array of characters known as “Quirky Little Characters.” This article delves into these whimsical figures that inhabit the realm of Hyrule and explains their enduring impact.

## What Defines a Quirky Little Character?

The phrase “Quirky Little Character” refers to an assortment of eccentric figures—beings that are frequently humorous, peculiar in appearance, and occasionally a tad unsettling. These figures can showcase a wide spectrum of traits, from playful to outright malevolent, yet they all possess a peculiar allure that keeps them memorable. Although not every Quirky Little Character conforms to the typical image of being small or female, they each carry a unique vibe that places them within this genre.

## A Plethora of Oddities in Hyrule

As players venture into *Ocarina of Time*, they soon discover that Hyrule is bustling with these strange entities. While many fans look forward to the remakes of beloved titles, there is an underlying worry that newer character designs may lack the quirkiness of the originals. This concern leads to a nostalgic appraisal of the initial ensemble of Quirky Little Characters, highlighting their distinct charm.

Below is a curated list of some of the most memorable Quirky Little Characters from *Ocarina of Time*:

### Redead
Recognized for their spine-chilling presence, Redeads are zombie-esque beings that can immobilize Link with their bone-chilling wail. Although they are unsettling at first, their awkwardness and response to sunlight eventually add a touch of humor.

### The Unnamed Guy
This peculiar individual—found lounging under a tree in Kakariko Village—complains about the locals and brings a blend of humor and bewilderment with his misguided self-importance.

### Happy Mask Salesman
An iconic figure from both *Ocarina of Time* and *Majora’s Mask*, the Happy Mask Salesman stands out as another unforgettable character, shrouded in mystery and oddity, making him a quintessential Quirky Little Character.

### Great Fairy
With their exaggerated traits and charming dialogue, the Great Fairies are easily recognizable and celebrated in the Hall of Fame for Quirky Little Characters.

### Deku Business Scrub
This quirky vendor operates within dungeons and, despite his hostility, offers to sell items after being defeated, raising eyebrows about his strange business practices.

### Cojiro
Embodied as a blue Cucco, Cojiro symbolizes the whimsical and unpredictable essence of Quirky Little Characters.

### Dead Hand
Initially terrifying, Dead Hand becomes less so after repeated encounters, as players get used to its bizarre movements and the ridiculousness of its numerous hands.

### Mysterious Faces in the Wall
These cryptic figures in the Shadow Temple provide clues to players, adding an element of allure and eeriness, akin to art that springs to life.

### Bongo Bongo
A puzzling antagonist known for its bongo-playing appendages, Bongo Bongo mixes horror with silliness, leaving players curious about its origin story and name.

### Eyeball Frog and Biggoron
These figures simply amplify the surreal vibe of Hyrule, with Biggoron showcasing the lovable quirks found within the Goron race.

### Rauru, Mario, and the Various Frogs
Whether portraying the sage Rauru, making a cameo as Mario, or featuring oddly designed frogs, these additional characters contribute to the playfulness that defines *Ocarina of Time*.

### Skulltula-Man and Scarecrow
Both comical and eerie, these characters further enhance the game’s unique aesthetic.

### Koume and Kotake
These sibling witches earn their place on the list as adept Quirky Little Characters, each contributing their own distinctive chaos to the story.

### Ganondorf
While not fitting the classic Quirky Little Character mold, Ganondorf’s dramatic villainy and flair for the theatrical earn him a spot among the game’s unforgettable oddities.

## Conclusion

*Ocarina of Time* is a treasure chest of Quirky Little Characters that enhance its enduring charm and allure. Their absurdity, delightful quirks, and unforgettable designs signify the game’s lasting legacy within the gaming community. As potential remakes loom on the horizon, players hope these enchanting characters will remain faithful to their origins and continue to inspire laughter and fascination in future gaming generations.

You know, I’ve been thinking about going for a nice big walk sometime soon. Well, not that soon, maybe sometime in the summer? Before I lock anything in, I’ll just watch this new thing about House House’s Big Walk and… oh, would you look at that! It’s got a release date now, and for this summer too!

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# Decoding the Kingdom Hearts IV Trailer

The latest trailer for **Kingdom Hearts IV** has undoubtedly piqued interest and generated questions among fans. Showcasing both well-known and lesser-known characters, the trailer suggests an evolving storyline, innovative gameplay elements, and a change in artistic style. Here’s a closer examination of our findings from the trailer.

## What’s the Narrative in Kingdom Hearts IV?

One of the most thrilling features of the **KH4** trailer is its distinct outline of the storyline. It presents a cloaked figure from Organization 13 who unveils the game’s primary conflict: individuals transported to a new realm, introducing darkness and its minions, the Heartless. This darkness acts as a significant danger that Sora and his companions will face during their adventure.

The trailer also presents Quadratum, a fresh, more realistic backdrop compared to the fantastical Disney-themed locations typically associated with the franchise. While Quadratum is the central focus at this time, it is expected that Sora will venture into familiar Disney realms in a way that complements the new visual style—potentially via dreamlike encounters or technology rather than conventional travel methods.

## Who Are These Characters?

The trailer was filled with both familiar and new characters. Alongside Sora, Donald Duck, and Goofy, notable appearances include Luxord— one of the few remaining Organization 13 members—who embodies a look reminiscent of a suave financial villain.

Another captivating introduction is Strelitzia, a character originating from a Japan-exclusive browser game, complicating the lore that **Kingdom Hearts** enthusiasts have become accustomed to. Also featured is Vali, another character from the same game. The trailer raises speculation about the reappearance of Xehanort, the series’ long-standing antagonist, prompting fans to wonder about his role.

Notably, the combination of Disney and **Final Fantasy** characters may be re-emerging, with a figure resembling Cid Raines from **Final Fantasy XIII** appearing in the trailer, suggesting a potential blend between the two legendary franchises that defined earlier installments.

## What Type of Keyblades Can We Expect?

The combat displayed in the **KH4** trailer appears to continue the thrilling action fans cherished in **KH3**. Sora’s aerial combos and keyblade skills are preserved, with new aspects introduced. The gameplay hints at a reimagined summoning system with Sora capable of utilizing chains in combat, replacing previous amusement park summons.

Modifications to the mechanics also include a shield feature and the ability to shoot golden chains from Sora’s keyblade. However, the absence of Donald and Goofy in combat raises questions regarding their roles this time. The inclusion of massive Heartless creatures and visually impressive keyblades, particularly one themed around fire and water, promises to elevate the combat experience.

## A New Beginning for the Franchise

Fans of the series frequently find it challenging to navigate its complex lore, made more difficult by the fragmented storytelling across different platforms. **Kingdom Hearts IV** appears set to act as a fresh starting point. With its more realistic visual approach and the promise of a new narrative arc, the game aims to attract newcomers and returning players who may feel overwhelmed by previous chapters.

In summary, the trailer for **Kingdom Hearts IV** offers intriguing hints of what lies ahead, while also leaving fans with plenty to contemplate. As speculation mounts around the new characters, narratives, and gameplay mechanics, excitement for the game’s release continues to grow.