Gait Games

**Title: Unlocking Your Inner Robust Drummer in Ultimate Drummer by Cool 3D World**

Leggings, chainmail, and armor plates might offer the best defense in combat, yet blue jeans embody an undeniable essence. In the freshly launched soulslike title, *Ultimate Drummer*, the surprising debut from Cool 3D World, gamers are called to express their inner champion armed not just with weapons but also a pair of drumsticks and a spirit of exploration.

**An Exceptional Developer with a Whimsical Flair**

Cool 3D World, recognized for their eccentric yet engaging creations, is led by animators and musicians Jon Baken and Brian Tessler. Their animation approach melds surreal visuals and bizarre figures, frequently seen in their short clips since the Vine era. Their projects often spotlight outrageous characters, and their unforgettable ham-adoring boys made a notable impact in an episode of *Smiling Friends*. While they have mastered the digital domain with their creative visuals, the launch of *Ultimate Drummer* signifies their first venture into interactive experiences, encouraging players to actively engage with their distinct vision.

**A Realm in Distress: The Narrative of Ultimate Drummer**

The story premise of *Ultimate Drummer* is as intriguing as its gameplay. The game unfolds in a world once unified by a supergroup of deities who, fearing their drummer’s increasing influence, cast him out. In his pursuit of revenge, the drummer sharpened his abilities and returned to rid the world of the gods. Players assume the role of a new champion endowed with celestial drumming powers, charged with rescuing the exiled deities and restoring order to the realm.

**Gameplay: A Rhythm-Charged Adventure**

In *Ultimate Drummer*, players navigate a vivid terrain on their adaptable drum set. The gameplay intertwines elements typical of platformers, such as mastering risky jumping sequences and overcoming numerous challenges, including pitfalls like Sonic-style speed boost rings and formidable dungeons. During their adventure, players face off against quirky foes — from awkward cave inhabitants to fierce boss encounters that ensure thrills and difficulty.

The essence of the gameplay hinges on sustaining an uninterrupted drum loop. Players can personalize their rhythm tracks, save configurations, and unlock a variety of new samples, adding a dimension of personal flair to their journey. This fluid blend of drumming and movement reflects jazz improvisation, allowing for inventive freedom as players embark on their quests. Whether it’s using a third arm to hurl battle axes at adversaries or navigating landscapes crafted from white plastic lawn chairs, the gameplay presents an array of unexpected and dynamic scenarios.

**Personalization and Aesthetic Charm**

Customization is a key element in *Ultimate Drummer*. Players can acquire fashionable outfits for their hero and designs for their drum kit. The character creator embraces the game’s offbeat style, fostering creative expressions, although the result may frequently diverge from traditional standards, yielding anything but an ordinary skull shape.

**Conclusion: The Jazz-Inspired Journey of Ultimate Drummer**

While *Ultimate Drummer* may not conform to the rigid standards of classic soulslike titles, it offers a chance to explore the delightful chaos of Cool 3D World. With its mix of outlandish characters, wild boss confrontations, and a diverse rhythm-driven gameplay system, players are invited to immerse themselves in a unique experience that redefines gameplay as understood through structure. It’s a joyful disarray, an invitation to encounter the energetic essence of the game akin to a jazz performance — unpredictable yet entrancing, with surprises around every corner.

**Day Two of Final Fantasy XIV Fan Festival 2026: Expansion Launch and Debate Over AI Art**

The Final Fantasy XIV Fan Festival 2026 continued its festivities in Anaheim, California, generating considerable excitement with the reveal of a new expansion named *Evercold*, slated for release in January 2027. Fans expressed enthusiasm over the expansion announcement, looking forward to the new content in the cherished MMORPG.

Nonetheless, the festival faced its share of controversies. During a segment titled “From Tacos to Tenders: Serving up the Lyrics of *FFXIV*,” Square Enix localizer Christopher Koji Fox faced backlash for his significant use of AI-generated art and videos throughout the presentation. This choice surprised some fans and somewhat hindered the overall excitement of the audience.

Observers pointed out that the panel, lasting two hours, commenced with laughter and cheers but became progressively quieter as AI-generated content was presented. Two prominent examples of AI implementation included a music video featuring “Copilot-kun” and a showcase of AI-generated visuals of the music artists linked to *Final Fantasy XIV’s* soundtrack.

Koji Fox spoke to the audience regarding his decision to incorporate AI, attributing it to time limitations and challenges in obtaining permissions for official images. He mentioned that the company’s CEO had been pushing for the integration of AI tools in their processes, highlighting his own experience with the technology, albeit with a touch of humor acknowledging the lack of success.

Despite his candidness, social media feedback was rapid and critical. Fans expressed their disappointment, with remarks underscoring the potential harm to Fox’s reputation within the community because of his AI usage.

Interestingly, some theorize that Fox’s use of AI showcases tensions within Square Enix regarding their leadership’s stance on technology. President Takashi Kiryu has previously articulated aspirations for the company to aggressively embrace AI, aiming to boost productivity and generate innovative content. This might add an additional layer of nuance to the criticisms aimed at Fox, suggesting that his choices could serve as an understated commentary on corporate direction.

In summary, while the announcement of *Evercold* rekindled excitement for *Final Fantasy XIV*, the implementation of AI during the Fan Festival panels has sparked intense discussions about creativity, technology, and community expectations within the gaming sector.

Sundays are for realising that you aren’t who you thought you were. You thought you were Jonathan Frakes. You thought you’d starred in both Star Trek: The Next Generation and 1995 video game Multimedia Celebrity Poker. You thought you’d played an unnamed dug dealer in a 1982 Hill Street Blues episode named ‘Of Mouse and Man’. You thought you’d directed an episode of Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce called ‘Rule No. 155: Go with the Magician’. You thought a man named Trim Jinca had used your face as a profile picture a time or two. You were wrong on all counts.

You are Jonathan Frakes. But not that Jonathan Frakes. You don’t ask the questions here. You answer them. And so I ask: who are you?

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**Accused Shooter at White House Correspondents’ Dinner: Cole Tomas Allen**

The event at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on April 26, 2026, has received considerable attention, primarily because of the conduct of the accused shooter, 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen. Characterized as a mechanical engineer, computer scientist, and independent game developer, Allen was taken into custody at the location after attempting to access the gathering with two firearms and several knives, allegedly intending to harm President Trump.

### Incident Overview

At around 8:35 p.m. ET, Allen is said to have discharged firearms at the Washington Hilton, the venue for the annual dinner. This caused panic among the participants, which predominantly included members of the White House press, who took refuge under their tables. Secret Service agents promptly evacuated President Trump from the vicinity. By 9:17 p.m., the President confirmed via his Truth Social account that Allen had been captured, labeling him a “lone wolf whack job.” Despite the chaos, only one security officer sustained a gunshot wound, which was cushioned by a bulletproof vest.

### Background on Cole Tomas Allen

Allen holds a diverse educational background, being an alumnus of Caltech and an educator. His LinkedIn profile highlights his combined expertise in mechanical engineering and computer science, along with his experiences as a game developer. He identifies himself as a “teacher by birth,” reflecting a strong commitment to education alongside his technical endeavors.

### Game Development: *Bohrdom*

Before the incident, Allen launched a game on Steam named *Bohrdom* in 2018. This multiplayer bullet-hell fighting game, inspired by geometric and chemical interactions, experienced slight initial engagement, reportedly peaking with merely two players at its release and selling under 100 copies. In the aftermath of the shooting, however, the game has attracted increased visibility, drawing users who are posting ironic reviews alluding to the Correspondents’ Dinner occurrence.

The game’s description enhances its intricacy, claiming it is “technically a skill-based, non-violent asymmetrical fighting game loosely based on a chemistry model.” This distinctive mix of themes aims to appeal to aficionados of chemistry and physics while providing an enjoyable gameplay experience.

### Future Plans and Career

On LinkedIn, Allen states he is presently developing a second game provisionally titled *First Law*, which he imagines as a top-down shooter/RPG focused on realistic physics-driven space combat. He has altered the title of this project multiple times in the past, signifying a dynamic creative process.

Before his detention, Allen worked as a part-time educator for C2, a test preparation and tutoring firm. Notably, he earned the title of “teacher of the month” in December 2024, underscoring his proficiency in education prior to his alleged violent behaviors.

### Conclusion

The shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner by Cole Tomas Allen prompts inquiries into the motivations and psychological state of individuals who undertake such actions. As investigations advance, further insights into Allen’s life and work, including his pursuits in game development and education, continue to surface, creating a multifaceted image of the individual behind this troubling event.

Stuck on a ghostly tether

The post Celeste-Like Precision Platformer TetherGeist Is a Coming-Of-Age Pilgrimage appeared first on Gamezebo.

There is a Titanfall-shaped hole in this world that could be filled by Respawn, yet won’t be, for silly reasons like money. I hate money! It is a scourge we must do away with. Until that point, we could of course moan and lament the absence of a Titanfall 3. That sounds quite dull, so instead I will point you towards ShatterRush, a game that is oh so evidently picking up what Titanfall 2 left behind, and adding into the mix some fresh elements of its own.

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### The Development Hurdles of Assassin’s Creed Hexe

In the continually changing realm of video game creation, the Assassin’s Creed series has encountered considerable shifts as it prepares for its next installment, *Assassin’s Creed Hexe*. The initiative has experienced significant leadership transitions, beginning with the exit of its creative director, Clint Hocking, in February 2023. Shortly thereafter, game director Benoit Richer declared his departure from the project just two months later, choosing to co-found a new indie studio made up of industry veterans.

#### Leadership Transitions and Their Effects

Benoit Richer, who became a part of Ubisoft in 2017 after directing *Batman: Arkham Origins* at Warner Bros. Montreal, played an essential role in numerous Ubisoft endeavors. His contributions included managing the psychological thriller *Transference* and serving as game director for *Assassin’s Creed Valhalla* before moving on to guide *Assassin’s Creed Hexe*. Richer’s departure represents a significant setback for the project, marking him as the second prominent exit in a brief period.

Hocking, a seasoned Ubisoft veteran recognized for his work on titles such as *Splinter Cell*, *Far Cry 2*, and *Watch Dogs Legion*, also left his imprint on the franchise. Subsequently, Ubisoft appointed Jean Guesdon, director of *Assassin’s Creed Black Flag* and *Origins*, to lead creative oversight for the series. This strategic transition seeks to stabilize the project amid a backdrop of leadership changes, especially as former franchise producer Marc-Alexis Côté finds himself involved in litigation with the company regarding an alleged “forced firing.”

Ubisoft expressed appreciation toward Hocking, recognizing his vision and contributions while assuring fans that development on *Assassin’s Creed Hexe* would proceed with an experienced team.

#### What We Understand About Assassin’s Creed Hexe

While particular information regarding *Assassin’s Creed Hexe* is still limited, it is set in the context of the “final phases of the Holy Roman Empire.” The game is anticipated to delve into themes of horror and witchcraft, marking a pronounced tonal shift for the series, which has generally emphasized historical narratives instead of supernatural themes.

As Ubisoft outlines its strategic plan for the franchise, it has also affirmed that *Assassin’s Creed Hexe* might not debut until 2027. In the meantime, *Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynched* is expected to be the main title for 2026, implying that while the development team navigates leadership issues, there are still intentions for substantial releases in the interim.

#### The Prospects of Assassin’s Creed

The shake-up in leadership triggers inquiries regarding the trajectory of *Assassin’s Creed Hexe* and the larger franchise. Fans are left contemplating how these shifts will influence the game’s development and whether Ubisoft will revert to a more conventional annual release schedule filled with remakes and spin-offs, or if it will take a more cautious approach given recent challenges and leadership transitions.

As the situation evolves, *Assassin’s Creed Hexe* remains a symbol of both the franchise’s ambition and the intricacies involved in delivering a high-caliber gaming experience within an increasingly competitive landscape. With experienced talent now at the helm, the way forward may become clearer as the game progresses through its development stages.

### The Ambiguous Future of an Independent Venom Game by Insomniac Games

For years, the idea of an independent *Venom* game from Insomniac Games has captivated fans, especially considering the studio’s successful history with the *Spider-Man* series. With the launch of *Spider-Man 2*, which features a segment showcasing Venom as a playable character, speculation surrounding a distinct Venom title has grown stronger. Nonetheless, even with various hints and leaks regarding its creation, an independent Venom game has not been formally announced or launched.

#### Perspectives from Nadji Jeter

Nadji Jeter, the voice of Miles Morales, recently sparked discussions on this matter during an interview. He asserted that there were intentions for a Venom game and even a DLC featuring the character. According to Jeter, the project was under development until the demise of actor Tony Todd, who lent his voice to Venom in *Spider-Man 2*. He noted that he had viewed preliminary designs and the game’s intended direction, emphasizing the dedication to delivering a standalone Venom experience to gamers.

#### Conflicting Reports

However, this narrative has met with doubt. Jason Schreier from Bloomberg swiftly reacted to Jeter’s remarks, suggesting that the actor’s account of the cancellation was not entirely correct. Schreier’s observations created ambiguity regarding whether the independent Venom game was truly still in progress or if he was merely contesting the rationale for its potential cancellation.

#### Confidential Information

The roots of these discussions can be traced back to a cyber intrusion that took place in late December 2023, which disclosed that Insomniac had been developing a standalone Venom game for a significant time even before Todd’s passing. This leak included preliminary plans indicating a projected release window of 2025 for the game. Despite the setbacks and uncertainties surrounding its creation, the leaked information pointed to a standalone Venom title as part of a larger strategy to connect the story and gameplay between *Spider-Man 2* and the forthcoming *Spider-Man 3*.

#### Insomniac’s Upcoming Ventures

By early 2026, Insomniac Games is concentrating on upcoming projects, particularly *Marvel’s Wolverine*, scheduled for release in September. Although there seems to be no immediate information regarding a new *Spider-Man* venture or the standalone Venom game, speculation continues that Insomniac might revisit the concept in the future. The studio’s commitment to exploring a variety of other intellectual properties includes plans for *Ratchet and Clank* as well as a comprehensive *X-Men* game.

#### Summary

The destiny of an independent *Venom* game remains unclear as Insomniac Games balances multiple projects and confronts the complexities of video game development. While Nadji Jeter’s disclosures fueled speculation, the conflicting perspectives from credible industry sources imply that fans may need to exercise patience before witnessing Venom take the limelight in his own game. As Insomniac continues to innovate and broaden its narrative universes, the potential for a future Venom project cannot be completely dismissed.

I do not know if FuRyu make games that one can easily jump to calling “good” but they are regularly putting out mid-budget (I assume) games that make me go “oh, there’s certainly some sauce here.” That’s certainly how I felt about the Kingdom Heartsian Reynatis (I will defend this prime cut of jank until my dying breath). And now they are back with a game that I instantly have no idea how to pronounce: Crymelight.

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We all make mistakes sometimes, which is exactly what someone did today on the Steam page for Star Wars: Galactic Racer. Video games’ own eye in the sky Wario64 shared word of said mistake, which is that the release date for the game was accidentally shared wholesale, alongside some details of a fancier edition of the racing game.

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