Gait Games

### Investigating the Themes and Narrative Progression in *Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2*

In the enthralling realm of *Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2*, audiences are swiftly immersed in a storyline that emphasizes the brutal truths of existence in Night City. The tale commences with a frenzied heist that takes a turn for the worse, centering on a character named Weak, also referred to as “King.” The intense situation of his life-threatening ordeal unveils the harsh destiny that many face in the cyber-augmented urban landscape, underlining the repercussions of cyberpsychosis. In spite of his critical predicament, Weak’s resolution to procure premium health insurance grants him a temporary reprieve, costing him everything he had – his team, dwelling, and enhancements.

The narrative technique in *Edgerunners* has evolved considerably from its inaugural season. While the earlier episode offered a more extravagant and exhilarating storyline reminiscent of a Michael Bay film, the current season aspires to achieve the artistic sophistication of Martin Scorsese. During the launch event at Anime Expo 2026, CD Projekt highlighted their ambition to create individual narratives that capture the spirit of the *Cyberpunk* tabletop setting instead of intertwining a single, broad storyline.

### The Influence of Cinema in *Edgerunners*

Film plays a crucial role in the thematic progression of season 2. Introducing Roman, a character who encapsulates the chaos of Night City through his camera, the series scrutinizes the effects of media consumption within a culture where memories and experiences can be commodified. The plot encourages viewers to critically engage with the material, especially as episodes conclude with visual symbols that signify profound reflections on memory and existence. The vibrant presentation, accentuated by a nostalgic reference to 90s animation styles, further enhances the viewing journey, depicting the lively yet bleak atmosphere of Night City.

### Memory, Conservation, and the Human Experience

At the heart of *Edgerunners 2* is a touching investigation of memory and identity preservation. In the aftermath of the traumatic heist, Weak’s forgetfulness about his prior actions sharply contrasts with the vivid memories of those who saw the trauma unfold. This narrative decision highlights the importance of collective experiences in molding individual identity in a city that frequently disregards the marginalized.

Weak’s plunge into a harsh new reality, supported solely by basic, improvised cyberware, illustrates a grim picture of societal indifference towards those abandoned. His struggles highlight the underlying themes of humanity within a landscape that often strips its denizens of their humanity. CD Projekt’s dedication to portraying the challenges of individuals like Weak adds a weight that resonates with viewers, providing a critical lens on the urban environment.

### Presenting New Characters and Prospective Directions

The latest season introduces an array of characters, including D and Talia, whose interactions with cinema provide insights into their character trajectories. While initial perceptions hint at potential paths for their journeys, the storytelling deliberately retains an air of ambiguity, keeping audiences engaged.

*Edgerunners 2* distinguishes itself from its predecessor through its refined character exploration and thematic richness. As viewers look forward to the complete narrative development, the season pledges to explore the complex fabric of life in Night City, where every choice bears weight and each character holds a story waiting to be revealed. The anticipation surrounding the release of more episodes in Fall 2026 is palpable, reflecting the series’ capacity to captivate audience imagination and involvement in this lively yet chaotic environment.

### The Intensifying Crisis of Pokémon Card Scalping: Nintendo’s Reaction and Market Consequences

The sphere of trading card games, especially Pokémon, has transformed into an arena marked by fervent enthusiasm and disorderly conduct. What began as a nostalgic childhood hobby—persuading parents about the uniqueness of Charizard cards—has devolved into a chaos involving scalping, aggressive confrontations, and an insatiable demand that has proven challenging for official vendors to satisfy.

#### The Present Condition of the Market

With the escalation in the popularity of Pokémon cards during the COVID-19 pandemic, the troubling trend of bulk purchasing and scalping has also increased. Accounts have emerged illustrating the extremes scalpers will go to in order to secure cards, resulting in episodes of theft, shootings, and even unusual criminal acts involving items like chainsaws. The sheer activity in this secondary market emphasizes a disparity between supply and demand, creating a scenario where genuine players find it hard to access products.

Notably, in spite of the Pokémon Company’s remarkable production figures—10 billion cards printed in 2025, representing an eighth of the overall lifetime total—there persists a significant shortfall in availability, primarily due to the booming resale market. This situation prompts inquiries about the sustainability of this demand and the ethical considerations surrounding scalping within gaming circles.

#### Nintendo’s Recognition and Upcoming Initiatives

In response to these crises, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa has addressed shareholder apprehensions regarding the Pokémon card market status. During a recent Annual General Meeting (AGM), Furukawa acknowledged the scalping dilemma and the necessity for effective strategies to enable players to enjoy the game “with peace of mind.” Among these strategies are proposed tighter partnerships with marketplace platforms to oversee transactions and improved verification processes to curtail bulk-buying.

Furukawa also noted that in Japan, initiatives are being introduced requiring buyers in online lotteries to provide government-issued identification, hinting that stricter identification protocols may soon be incorporated into a broader plan to combat scalping. By tackling the foundational issues driving reselling, Nintendo aspires to foster a more stable and accessible market for both collectors and gamers.

#### Collaboration with The Pokémon Company

A significant aspect of Furukawa’s remarks emphasized collaboration with The Pokémon Company, highlighting a collective effort to tackle the reselling crisis. “Nintendo also collaborates with The Pokémon Company as necessary to explore suitable ways to supply products to consumers,” he remarked, reflecting a proactive stance towards addressing the surge of challenges stemming from scalping and reselling activities.

#### Consequences for the Future

As the trading card market reaches a boiling point, especially regarding Pokémon, the clash of passion and profit generates a precarious environment. Nintendo’s firm actions could lead to considerable consequences not just for the Pokémon brand but also for the wider collectible market landscape. By executing strategies to mitigate scalping, the company may establish benchmarks that could reshape how trading cards are marketed and sold going forward.

As the frenzy continues to develop, it remains uncertain how effective these measures will be in reinstating balance to a market destabilized by greed and aggression. Nonetheless, the conversations initiated by Nintendo indicate a crucial shift towards restoring a healthier and more just atmosphere for both collectors and casual gamers.

### The Hazards of IRL Streaming: A Study on ExtraEmily

Recently, renowned IRL Twitch broadcaster Emily Xuechun Zhang, commonly referred to as ExtraEmily, endured considerable backlash after an event during her stream. While driving, Zhang got sidetracked by her live chat and almost hit an SUV while she was attempting to change lanes. This perilous conduct led to a short suspension from the platform, sparking renewed debates about Twitch’s lax regulations regarding streaming while operating a vehicle.

In her reaction to the suspension, Zhang recognized the hazards of her behavior, asserting, “I fully grasp why I was taken off the platform because it’s incredibly unsafe. I aim to learn from this mistake and improve.” She vowed to reduce her streaming when driving and guaranteed that she would deactivate the chat if she decided to stream while driving again.

This isn’t the first instance where Zhang confronted traffic regulations. Only a year earlier, she ran a red light en route to a Barbie-themed café in Austin, Texas. The emergence of IRL (In Real Life) streaming introduces distinct obstacles, merging entertainment with public safety. Numerous streamers, Zhang among them, grant fans a raw view into their everyday lives; however, this openness frequently results in troubling scenarios where safety is at risk.

Twitch’s service terms do not specifically ban streaming while driving, yet they do prohibit “dangerous or distracted driving” and the use of a mobile device, which most would agree includes streaming while behind the wheel. Zhang’s recent suspension was only one day long, prompting many to question the uniformity in Twitch’s application of its own policies. Leading streamers voiced their opinions on the subject, with Asmongold, co-founder of the media entity OTK, advocating for a complete ban on driving streams. He contended that streamers would be safer opting for rideshare services like Uber rather than jeopardizing their well-being.

Adding to the discourse, Asian Andy, a streamer with an extensive ban for comparable actions, expressed his frustration. He has been banned for nine years due to a past incident involving driving, streaming, and consuming chicken nuggets. In a tweet, he bemoaned, “Bro 9 years I’m still banned for eating chicken nuggets and driving. Twitch pls. I just want to play MapleStory and stream.” His appeal emphasizes the perceived inconsistency in Twitch’s bans concerning driving violations.

The dialogue around Zhang’s incident and similar occurrences highlights the ethical ramifications of live streaming. While streaming provides viewers an interactive way to connect with their beloved creators, it simultaneously raises significant safety issues. The division between entertaining content and responsible conduct continues to fade for numerous streamers. As the population of IRL streamers expands, it remains uncertain how Twitch will modify its policies to safeguard both streamers and the public.

### Yoko Taro’s Upcoming Series: Evangelion

An English trailer for Yoko Taro’s forthcoming *Neon Genesis Evangelion* series, simply named *Evangelion*, has emerged online after being unveiled at CloverWorks’s Anime Expo 2026 panel. The series, eagerly awaited by enthusiasts of both Taro’s creations and the *Evangelion* franchise, highlights a collaboration of notable figures within the anime industry.

#### Creative Team

The series will be helmed by Tôko Yatabe, recognized for his animation contributions to hit titles like *Mob Psycho 100*, *Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc*, and *Weathering with You*. Assisting him is Kazuya Tsurumaki, a principal animator for the original *Evangelion* films, specifically *Evangelion: 1.0*, *Evangelion: 2.0*, and *Evangelion: 3.0+1.01*. The score will be crafted by Keiichi Okabe, a regular collaborator of Yoko Taro, notably celebrated for his work on the *NieR* series.

Yoko Taro himself is poised to produce the series’ screenplay, while animation production will be executed by CloverWorks and Studio Khara, with the latter being renowned for its involvement in animating the last three entries of the *Neon Genesis Evangelion* series.

#### Trailer Release and Reception

The trailer was posted on Twitter by Anime Updates with the message: “‘EVANGELION’ by Yoko Taro Official English Announcement Trailer!” Enthusiasts have shown excitement but also perplexity, as this represents the second announcement of the series, with the initial trailer being disclosed in February lacking an English translation.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the series’ concept and objectives, particularly after the definitive conclusion of the *Rebuild of Evangelion* series with *Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time*, Taro’s vision for *Evangelion* has generated intrigue. Yoko Taro has openly stated that *Neon Genesis Evangelion* has deeply influenced his work, especially in the creation of the *NieR* franchise.

In a conversation with Square Enix, Taro remarked, “Definitely *Evangelion*. But then, everything I make is influenced by *Evangelion*.” This comment highlights a profound inspiration that has molded Taro’s artistic pathway and indicates that his forthcoming project may incorporate distinct themes and facets from the original series.

#### Future Expectations

As specifics remain limited, fans are left contemplating the content and narrative emphasis of *Evangelion*. With no release date provided, speculation indicates that the project may not premiere until late 2027. As anticipation rises, the anime community keenly awaits additional details about this captivating addition to the *Evangelion* saga.

Sonic the Hedgehog has experienced both triumphs and tribulations over the years, facing various obstacles particularly in the 2010s. A significant downturn occurred with the launch of 2014’s *Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric*, which was met with harsh criticism. Nonetheless, the decade also introduced one of the most praised installments in the series: 2017’s 2D *Sonic Mania*. In 2026, Sega celebrated the franchise’s 35th anniversary at Anime Expo, hosting a panel entitled “Sonic the Hedgehog Animated Shorts: A Frame-by-Frame Retrospective,” which focused on the development of *Sonic Mania* and its impact on revitalizing the franchise.

The panel, led by Sega strategy director Aaron Webber, discussed how mainline Sonic titles had not lived up to Sega’s standards a decade earlier. The negative reception of *Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric* led to a reduction in the Sega San Francisco office, which subsequently moved to Los Angeles. Social media sentiments reflected these struggles, with unfavorable comments on Twitter asserting that Sonic had lost its allure and urging Sega to “let Sonic die.” Rather than withdrawing, Sega proactively engaged with fans via social media, participating in meme culture and interacting directly with the audience.

Understanding the necessity for enhanced game production, Sega brought in designer Takashi Iizuka and artist Kazuyuki Hoshino for help. A noteworthy proposal came from Christian Whitehead, recognized for his contributions to earlier Sonic game ports. Initially, there was a bit of tension during Whitehead’s pitch—Iizuka stayed silent and exited the room. Ten minutes later, he returned and clearly expressed his support for the project by writing “*Sonic Mania*” on a whiteboard.

Ultimately, *Sonic Mania* emerged as one of the best-selling and most lauded titles in the franchise, credited with rekindling interest in the character. Sega built upon this success by releasing *Sonic Mania Plus*, which introduced new content and a physical version. They also launched an animated short series, *Sonic Mania Adventures*. Animator Tyson Heese expressed a desire for more ambitious animations while acknowledging budget limitations that restricted their options to either black-and-white sketches or pixel art. Ultimately, they chose to create a full cartoon, leading to the production of *Sonic Mania Adventures*.

Following this successful endeavor, Sega maintained the momentum by continuing to create animated shorts for subsequent mainline titles and spin-offs, such as *Sonic Superstars: Trio of Trouble*, *Sonic Frontiers Prologue: Divergence*, and *Sonic Racing: Crossworlds*. Alan Wan, co-founder of Studio Giggex, played a role in the animations for *Dark Generations* and *Crossworlds*. Wan noted that Sonic Team was distinctive in its willingness to embrace creative risks, providing a platform for innovative concepts.

The panel wrapped up with Sega revealing a new animation, *Sonic the Hedgehog: Memories and Beyond*, to honor the franchise’s milestone. The trailer showcased exhilarating action as Sonic and his friends fought against Dr. Eggman and Metal Sonic. The plot unveiled Eggman’s scheme to enhance Metal Sonic by obtaining Sonic’s life data and the power of the Chaos Emeralds.

Although no release date was provided for the new animated short or upcoming games, the panel left fans buzzing with anticipation about the potential future of the series. Many shared their hopes for Sonic’s return to the action-adventure genre, eager to see if Sega could replicate the success of *Sonic Mania* instead of delivering another underwhelming title like *Rise of Lyric*.

### Hideo Kojima’s Worries About the Future of Physical Media in Gaming

Hideo Kojima, the acclaimed creator behind the *Metal Gear* franchise and director of the recent *Death Stranding*, has openly expressed his concerns regarding Sony’s plan to phase out physical game discs by 2028. During his talk at the Il Cinema in Piazza film festival in Italy, he emphasized the emotional and practical importance of physical media in a world that is becoming increasingly digital.

Kojima shared his disappointment about the impending changes, stating, “Since production is ending in 2028, this is about video games, but I grew up with physical media, so I find it really sad.” His current pursuits to gather Blu-rays and CDs reflect a longing for tangible media, which starkly contrasts the streaming-focused future that seems to be materializing.

He further discussed the consequences of a completely streaming model for video games, drawing comparisons to prevailing streaming platforms such as Netflix and Amazon. “Currently, I’ve been buying up a lot of Blu-rays, such as various movies, and CDs too,” he remarked. Kojima highlighted that with downloads, gamers keep their data on personal devices, while streaming depends on external servers, limiting true ownership. He contends that this places consumers at the mercy of service providers, posing substantial risks if service agreements shift or servers go offline.

Kojima’s anxieties extend beyond gaming into the film industry as well. He warned, “If there is a change, the data inside will stop being distributed… you won’t be able to watch or play the movies and games you like. That is what is frightening.” The upcoming shift towards a predominantly digital environment has rekindled debates around ownership and accessibility, raising concerns for gamers about the future availability of content they have purchased.

The impending end of physical media coincides with the anticipated release of Sony’s PlayStation 6. This move has led to scrutiny over ownership rights regarding digital purchases; players recently encountered issues when Sony removed movies from their digital libraries after license agreements expired. Additionally, users were faced with the removal of games like *Concord*, which was “unlaunched,” further highlighting the unstable nature of digital ownership.

Kojima’s earlier remarks from 2021 resurfaced in this discussion, where he conveyed a deep fear of losing access to digital content during unpredictable circumstances. “Whenever there is a major change or accident in the world… access to it may suddenly be cut off. We will not be able to freely access the movies, books, and music that we have loved. I would be a have-not. That’s what I’m afraid of. This is not greed,” he expressed, underlining the vulnerability of digital ownership.

Different gaming companies are responding variously to the shift towards a digital future. There is speculation about whether the PS6 will include an optional optical drive to maintain compatibility with PS4 and PS5 discs. Microsoft is reportedly considering options to permit users to digitize their physical game collections, while Nintendo has rolled out DRM-locked game key cards, which provide some resale or trade benefits compared to entirely digital purchases.

Despite appeals for Sony to rethink its approach, reports suggest that factories specializing in disc production are already gearing up for a future without physical media. Kojima’s insights resonate with a larger community of gamers who are cognizant of the potential repercussions stemming from this digital shift, marking a significant moment for both the future of gaming and the safeguarding of media ownership.

**The Dual Nature of Fandom: The Situation of Valko in Love and Deepspace**

In the lively realm of fandom, reactions to character reveals can differ significantly. Recently, the fanbase for the well-liked mobile game *Love and Deepspace* has become a battleground for opposing views regarding the character Valko, a tech CEO werewolf who was first presented as the game’s sixth romantic option. The unveiling of Valko drew a mix of responses, prompting his rapid cancellation by the game’s developer, Papergames. This has ignited an engaging conversation among fans, resulting in two separate camps: one pushing for Valko’s comeback and the other in favor of his exclusion.

*Love and Deepspace* has made a significant impact in the mobile gaming sector, claiming over 80 million unique downloads, aided by its charismatically designed characters and captivating gacha system. Valko was created to align with the established archetype of alluring, muscular male protagonists, yet his appearance sparked disputes that the developers seemingly did not anticipate. Some fans voiced their dissatisfaction, claiming that focus should stay on the five existing male characters, while others criticized Valko’s design and character background, arguing it catered to Western tastes.

The scenario intensified beyond ordinary fan discussions when reports surfaced of negative feedback, including incidents of cow dung being sent to the developers’ office. In light of this backlash, Papergames promptly opted to remove Valko from the game, which, ironically, appeared to pave the way for his unexpected surge in popularity.

In an astonishing twist following his cancellation, Valko started to gain a passionate fanbase. Campaigns calling for his return have surged, with more than 310,000 signatures amassed across two major petitions—over 91,000 on the Change.org petition alone. This remarkable reaction underscores the potential for collective action surrounding a character that some initially regarded as unworthy.

Curiously, the interplay of backlash and admiration seems to have elevated Valko’s status among certain segments of the fandom. Conversations on platforms like Reddit indicate that many fans have developed a fondness for Valko not in spite of his cancellation, but because of it. The controversy surrounding his removal appears to have turned him into a representation of a user-driven storyline, sparking discussions about creative authority and fan involvement in the gaming industry.

Despite the surge of support for Valko, the chances of his return remain unclear. Papergames’ choice to eliminate “Valko’s Interactive Sessions” from a recent event suggests that the developers are firm in their decision. Nonetheless, the overwhelming backing for Valko—the fastest-growing petition in iPetitions history—cannot be overlooked easily.

The conflict surrounding Valko acts as a microcosm of modern fandom culture where humor, irony, and heartfelt admiration converge. In a landscape increasingly shaped by fan voices, the resolution of this narrative may not only reshape Valko’s position in *Love and Deepspace* but also influence how developers interact with their communities in the future. The fascination surrounding Valko’s path serves as a reminder of the dual nature of fandom: both supporters and detractors seek recognition, but ultimately, only one may triumph.

You know what, reader? Sundays are for whatever you goddamn feel like. Go swimming. Get lost in the woods. Take a kintsugi pottery class. Fix a broken appliance. Eat more than one hot dog. Learn Welsh. Smash your kintsugi pottery and take another class to repair it. Rearrange towels. Borrow some sugar. Don’t give it back.

Read more

### The Shutdown of PlayStation Digital Marketplaces: Reflecting on Essential Games

With Sony’s notification regarding the closure of the digital marketplaces for the PlayStation 3 and PS Vita, gamers are faced with the impending conclusion of a significant period. In just a year, players will no longer be able to acquire new games on these systems, effectively sealing away some of the earliest digital titles from PlayStation’s legacy. This choice underscores the increasingly precarious landscape of game ownership in the digital realm, highlighting the necessity of safeguarding and honoring the distinctive games that characterized the PlayStation 3 generation.

#### The PlayStation 3: A Transitional System

The PlayStation 3 represented a notable transitional moment for Sony, connecting the experimental foundations of its previous consoles to the more commercial strategies of later iterations. As the digital marketplaces shut down, certain unconventional games that once mesmerized players may be forever lost. While some titles have successfully transitioned to other platforms, such as *Sound Shapes* and *PixelJunk Eden*, others remain solely on the PS3, with a few already removed from listing. Here’s a glance at some essential games that are hard to find elsewhere.

#### Important Games to Experience Before They Vanish

1. **Tales from Space: About a Blob**
The inaugural release from Drinkbox Studios, known for *Guacamelee*, this puzzle platformer features a squishy hero. As the gooey figure travels across Earth, players increase in size and gain new abilities. Its vibrant aesthetics and captivating gameplay create a playful adventure reminiscent of timeless animations.

2. **Thexder Neo**
A reimagining of a beloved classic from the 1980s on the PC-Engine, *Thexder Neo* allows players to alternate between a jet and a large mech while navigating treacherous landscapes. The HD enhancement retains the game’s vintage allure while offering a renewed experience for both newcomers and nostalgic enthusiasts.

3. **Siren: Blood Curse**
Crafted by *Silent Hill*’s Keiichirō Toyama, *Siren: Blood Curse* presents a distinctive perspective on survival horror with its nonlinear story. While it presents a more refined experience compared to its original, the scarcity of physical copies makes obtaining it digitally a smart decision before the marketplaces shut down.

4. **The Last Guy**
This eccentric title plunges players into an arcade-style apocalypse where they save survivors and traverse cities teeming with mutants. Using Google Map satellite images, the game turns real-life locations into a lively playground, amplifying the chaotic delight of forming lengthy conga lines of rescued characters.

5. **Puppeteer**
A platformer that intertwines fanciful narratives and engaging gameplay mechanics, *Puppeteer* lets players assume the role of a puppet named Kutaro. Wielding oversized scissors, players confront foes and obtain various heads that enable distinct gameplay experiences. Due to the scarcity of its physical copies, a digital purchase is crucial.

6. **Vib-Ribbon**
Following the success of *PaRappa the Rapper*, *Vib-Ribbon* is a rhythm-based platformer that lets players personalize their gameplay using their own CDs. Initially launched for the first PlayStation, it was later released on PSN, establishing it as a pinnacle of innovative game design during its era.

7. **Tokyo Jungle**
Regarded as an essential experience, *Tokyo Jungle* is a survival RPG set in a post-apocalyptic Japan where players take on the role of wild animals. The game’s inventive mechanics, including hunting and breeding in a fluid ecosystem, deliver an engrossing experience that leaves a lasting impression long after playing.

### Final Thoughts

The forthcoming shutdown of the digital marketplaces for the PlayStation 3 and PS Vita acts as a poignant reminder of the ephemeral nature of digital gaming libraries. With a range of unique titles at risk of disappearing, now is the moment to discover and appreciate these hidden gems before they are forever confined. From whimsical puzzle platformers to survival escapades, these games signify a vital segment of gaming history that merits acknowledgment and preservation.

Remember when you were a baby, and someone would cover their face with their hands, thusly disappearing entirely from existence, only to return and scream at you? This is to do with something called object permanence, an idea of understanding that even when you can’t see something, it still exists, something that babies genuinely do struggle with. So how about a game that puts this to the test? Enter Object Impermanence, a puzzle game where nothing exists unless you look at it.

Read more