Gait Games

I think that genres, particularly in the realm of games, are often more used as marketing tools than signifiers of the contents therewithin. Still! Genre labels are a useful thing to quickly ascertain the thing you’re doing in a game. Take, for example, Arc Raiders and its specific genre of extraction shooter. You know you’ll be shooting, and extracting something, even if it technically isn’t that simple in practice, but you get the gist. However, at one point in time, the genre of the game completely depended on who you asked.

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### Ghost of Yotei: Legends – A Fresh Multiplayer Adventure

Earlier this week, the PS5-exclusive open-world game *Ghost of Yotei* received an update that brought forth a new multiplayer adventure titled *Legends*. Mirroring the *Legends* mode from its 2020 predecessor, *Ghost of Yotei: Legends* reinvents the impressive combat mechanics of the primary game into a one-to-four-player mystical action RPG. The update has received favorable responses from both players and critics.

#### What is Ghost of Yotei: Legends?

*Legends* provides players with the opportunity to partake in story missions that range from 10 to 15 minutes, supporting both solo and cooperative gameplay. Players can collaborate with up to three others to experience the game’s multiplayer functionalities. Completing story missions rewards players with both experience points and loot, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

The gameplay loop motivates players to complete three story missions in a chapter, followed by a more difficult final mission. As players advance, they can replay these missions on greater difficulty levels to obtain superior loot, as well as level up their selected class from four available options. Moreover, players can participate in survival missions or team up with random players for additional rewards. Anticipated future updates are set to introduce raids, further expanding the content to discover.

While *Legends* might not present groundbreaking ideas, it excels in maximizing the fundamental gameplay mechanics of *Yotei*. Players have access to all available moves and weapons, including dodging, parrying, attacking, and executing stealthy assassinations, preserving the action-filled spirit of the main campaign.

#### A Relaxed yet Thrilling PS5 Co-op Experience

One of the standout features of *Legends* is its user-friendliness, allowing players to jump into action without needing constant communication. The cooperative gameplay cultivates a sense of teamwork, as groups can smoothly tackle challenges while remaining informed of objectives and player status through clear notifications.

The thrill of leveling up classes, unlocking new cosmetics, and enhancing gear contributes layers of progression and gratification. Players can relish the excitement of defeating foes alongside friends or random partners, boosting the enjoyment factor.

Despite potential concerns over long-term engagement, especially when compared to other online games, many players appreciate the experience as a complimentary update to an already rich single-player samurai tale. The prospect of future content from Sucker Punch could further enhance *Ghost of Yotei: Legends*, presenting an appealing option for cooperative play.

In conclusion, *Ghost of Yotei: Legends* takes the cherished aspects of the main game and flawlessly morphs them into an engaging multiplayer experience, making it a worthy addition for both fans and newcomers alike.

Video games are such funny things, because I think if you were to tell someone unfamiliar with them that there is genuine enjoyment to be had in pushing some blocks around in a virtual space they’d look at you as if you’d told them there’s genuine enjoyment to be hand in pushing some blocks around in a virtual space. And yet it’s true! It’s one of the classic puzzle game genres, going way back to 1982 with Sokoban. And here we are now, many years later, with a new entry to the genre in the form of Hazard Pay, a dystopian take that sees you cleaning up mysterious messes in secret labs.

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## The Trump Administration’s Employment of Pop Culture as Propaganda

In recent times, reports have emerged revealing the Trump administration’s employment of popular culture, including video games, to spread propaganda. Noteworthy instances include references to cherished franchises such as *Pokémon* and *Call of Duty* to correspond with political messaging. These occurrences not only provoke concerns about the appropriation of pop culture for political advantage but also highlight significant issues regarding intellectual property rights and corporate accountability.

### Pop Culture in Political Messaging

The administration has utilized iconic representations of youth culture, striving to sync its controversial actions with familiar and treasured narratives. A significant example involved a video that merged footage of military strikes in Iran with clips from Nintendo’s *Wii Sports*, creating a stark contrast that many critics perceive as an insensitive trivialization of serious geopolitical happenings. This content frequently arises from social media strategies aimed at engaging a younger demographic, though the intentions behind such strategies are deeply rooted in contention.

### Concerns of Intellectual Property Rights

Nintendo and other companies have traditionally been vigilant in protecting their intellectual property. While some may contend that the administration’s use of these franchises could be justified under fair use, the possibility of trademark infringement looms, particularly given the adverse implications such representations hold for the brands involved. Nevertheless, numerous corporations have opted to remain reticent or issue statements distancing themselves from the administration’s propaganda undertakings.

### The Reaction of Corporations

Historically, companies like Nintendo have vigorously pursued legal measures to safeguard their franchises from exploitation. However, in the context of the Trump administration’s controversial messaging, corporate reactions have been, for the most part, limited. Noteworthily, Nintendo has encountered losses linked to the tariffs enforced by the Trump administration, which resulted in a notable legal challenge deemed illegal by the Supreme Court. In spite of these grievances, the company has not undertaken substantial action against its intellectual property being used in a manner many regard as inappropriate.

### A New Political Landscape

The convergence of video games, pop culture, and political messaging conveys much about the present state of American politics. The normalization of utilizing such media for propaganda signifies a concerning shift towards a landscape where checks and balances appear increasingly ineffective. Critics assert that this showcases a broader trend where conventional political discourse is eclipsed by sensationalism and a disregard for established conventions.

### Conclusion

The persistent appropriation of pop culture by the Trump administration poses essential questions regarding the role of intellectual property, the responsibilities of corporations, and the ethical limits of political messaging. As the administration continues to deploy contentious tactics to secure support, it remains to be observed whether notable action will be undertaken by corporations like Nintendo to safeguard their brands from becoming entangled in the divisive political arena. The ramifications of this trend demand close observation as the political atmosphere transforms, illustrating a period when entertainment and governance increasingly intersect.

A man with a gun stands above the crowd at GDC, the barrel levelled at the words “Next Gen Raytracing Performance & Capabilities.” Alas, he is not here to shoot the technojargon out of existence, nor to ballistically punish the unforgivably inappropriate use of title case. He himself is a ray-traced gamething, here to illustrate at least three of the many hardware-based tricks and tools that Microsoft are hyping up for Project Helix: the next, apparently PC game-running Xbox console.

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**The Ascent and Decline of Highguard: A Homage to an Unexpected Gem**

Highguard, crafted by Wildlight Entertainment, debuted to mixed reviews and a swiftly dwindling player count. Initially regarded as uninspiring and generic, the game astonished many by nurturing a loyal fanbase—if only for a short while—before its abrupt closure just three months after its launch.

At first glance, Highguard seemed to lack the excitement that typically defines successful multiplayer shooters. Regardless of the game’s leisurely pace and seemingly simple mechanics, players like myself discovered delight in it, converting a lack of intensity into a perfect setting for casual gaming nights with pals. For those preferring a more relaxed gaming journey, Highguard turned into a synonym for easygoing multiplayer evenings filled with friendship.

The game showcased a distinctive looting system, engaging players in a frenzy to gather resources. Though initially met with criticism and seen as lacking, this feature evolved into a beloved point of debate and thrill during matches. Players crafted strategies around Shieldbreaker spawn locations, resulting in exhilarating confrontations that harked back to iconic battle scenarios. With a roster of unique heroes like Condor and Una and weaponry such as Vanguard and Kraken, the excitement of competition flourished even in this apparently mundane realm.

One standout aspect was the capability to summon mounts, injecting a lively element into gameplay that enhanced the overall chaotic and gratifying experience. This rendered skirmishes more hectic, as players dashed between objectives while formulating strategies with their teammates. The combination of classic combat with rapid travel via mounts evoked a nostalgic sensation, reminiscent of simpler childhood games like Army Men 3D.

Despite Highguard’s struggles to attract a significant player base against titans like Overwatch and Valorant, its low-pressure atmosphere provided a refreshing break from these more aggressive competitive landscapes. It served as a palate cleanser for gamers yearning for a calmer experience devoid of intricate mechanics or overwhelming stress.

Regrettably, even with its distinctiveness and charm, Highguard has entered gaming folklore dubbed “Concord 2.0,” a testament to both the pleasures and fleeting nature of online gaming adventures. As servers were taken offline, many players, myself included, reminisce about the cherished moments cultivated within its universe.

Highguard may have been deficient in depth and finesse compared to other titles, yet it succeeded in fostering connections and enjoyment among friends. As we say goodbye to this gaming treasure, a sense of loss envelops both players and developers who envisioned a different fate. Though Highguard was short-lived, it will be dearly missed by those who found peace in its simplicity and joy in its tranquil moments.

Subnautica probably wouldn’t be the beloved ocean exploration/survival crafting game that it is without its underwater base building, so of course it’s no surprise that it’s returning for the impending sequel. But being a sequel, it of course can’t just be the same thing with a new coat of paint slapped on, and in a dev log some of the improvements of base building in Subnautica 2 were put on display.

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**Netflix Officially Confirms Sequel to KPop Demon Hunters**

In a wave of speculation and hints, Netflix has officially announced a sequel to the animated series *KPop Demon Hunters*. This revelation signifies the onset of an exhilarating new phase as Netflix initiates an “exclusive multiyear writing and directing partnership” with the original co-directors, Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans. This alliance will not only concentrate on the sequel but also involve several animation ventures guided by their creative leadership.

Kang and Appelhans will reprise their roles as co-directors for the sequel, underscoring their dedication to the project and their tie to the storyline. In the announcement, Kang conveyed her pride as a Korean filmmaker, expressing her excitement that audiences are eager for more from this narrative and its characters. She emphasized the immense possibilities of the universe they have built and her enthusiasm to delve into it further, suggesting that this sequel is merely the start of the adventure.

Appelhans mirrored these feelings by mentioning his strong bond with the characters, calling them family and their universe a second home. He shared his eagerness to craft the next chapter, challenging the characters and continuing to push creative boundaries at the crossroads of music, animation, and storytelling.

Currently, Kang and Appelhans are the only confirmed members of the creative team, but the announcement highlighted key characters Rumi, Zoey, and Mira, implying that the central trio will be back for the sequel. Considering the significance of their performances for the film’s overall success, fans are looking forward to updates regarding the return of vocalists Ejae, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, who played crucial roles in the show’s celebrated soundtrack.

Regarding the release schedule, Netflix has announced that development is in progress. However, it’s important to manage expectations as the sequel is not expected to premiere until after 2029, dependent on various production factors as indicated by Kristine Belson, president of Sony Pictures Animation. This timeline suggests that fans might need to wait a substantial duration before witnessing the next chapter in the *KPop Demon Hunters* universe.

It’s back in a new avatar.

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What’s the best video game guide you’ve ever used? There’s an art to it, knowing what information is imperative to include, how to include it, is it a written guide, or a video? Well, how about a 21 track long rap album? I only ask because, I am so delighted to say, someone has done just that for indie classic Metroidvania Cave Story.

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