Gait Games

Soulframe, the fantasy action-RPG from Warframe creators Digital Extremes, is getting wolf mounts, a Warsongs quest, and a new Vadagar progression path or “Pact” that transforms your “Envoy” character into the lovechild of Soulcalibur’s Ivy and Tim Curry’s Hexxus from Fern Gully. Unfamiliar with both of those? Think ichor-slathered bone warrior with whipsword. The Vadagar class addition is intriguing because it sees you channelling the powers of the Ode, Soulframe’s space-faring, spellsong-controlled enemy faction, who are trying to harvest or corrupt all the world’s resources and wildlife.

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**Palworld Version 1.0 Update: Significant Modifications and Debated Changes**

Palworld, a game that fuses aspects of creature collection with survival elements, has at last launched its eagerly awaited version 1.0 update. This update brings a vast array of new content, featuring 72 fresh Pals (the game’s creatures), new areas to explore, and an elevated level limit, highlighting the developers’ dedication to broadening the game’s universe and improving player engagement.

Nevertheless, alongside these thrilling enhancements, gamers have observed considerable alterations to certain existing creature designs that were absent from the official patch notes. Numerous players have noted that various Pals now show diminished similarities to well-known characters from the Pokémon series, a fact that has raised eyebrows within the gaming community.

Among the prominent design modifications, at least four Pals have been redesigned, apparently to distance themselves from recognizable Pokémon designs. Although the developer and publisher Pocketpair has not officially commented on the reasons for these changes, the similarities between previous images and recognizable Pokémon characters are difficult to overlook. For instance, the reimagined version of the Pal called Verdash is now portrayed as a smaller character, differing from its prior design that drew strong parallels to Pokémon’s Cinderace.

Particularly, comparisons have surfaced between beloved Palworld creatures and Pokémon. The earlier iteration of Grintale, for instance, was said to closely resemble Pokémon’s Perrserker, mainly due to certain facial features. However, the likeness between the original design of Robinquill from Palworld and Decidueye from Pokémon was significantly stronger, leading to speculation that these alterations were a direct response to community input and legal matters.

The timing of these modifications overlaps with an ongoing lawsuit between Pocketpair and Nintendo, sparking inquiries about whether these design changes are a calculated effort to guard against possible legal allegations of copyright violation. As the gaming arena faces increasing scrutiny for design similarities, variations like these could represent Pocketpair’s attempt to safeguard its intellectual property.

Further complicating the situation is the arrival of a new Pal, Hoodle, which has also garnered fan attention. Some players have remarked that Hoodle resembles a blend of characters from various franchises, possibly indicating that the developers are still willing to draw inspiration from numerous sources, despite the revisions to existing designs.

Currently, Pocketpair has not released a statement addressing these design modifications, and queries from media platforms such as Kotaku have remained unanswered. The shifting dynamics of creature design in Palworld illustrates the ongoing hurdles encountered by developers within a crowded market, as they attempt to produce distinct content while maneuvering through potential legal consequences.

In summary, while the version 1.0 update of Palworld enriches the game with new elements, the deliberate changes to certain Pals highlight a larger concern surrounding originality and design integrity in the gaming industry. As the community continues to analyze these developments, it remains uncertain how Pocketpair will respond to player feedback and steer its creative direction in the future.

**Obsidian Entertainment: Facing Challenges and Opportunities During Change**

Obsidian Entertainment recently garnered attention with the launch of three significant titles: *Avowed*, *Grounded 2* (Early Access), and *The Outer Worlds 2*, all within the same calendar year. Nonetheless, the studio has encountered considerable challenges following a round of mass layoffs throughout Microsoft’s gaming division. Reports suggest that around 1,600 positions were eliminated, with further layoffs anticipated. One of the consequences of these changes was a decrease in Obsidian’s workforce by 50 employees, resulting in a shift in development focus, including a move away from a sequel to *Avowed* to concentrate on a new *Fallout* game.

Amid these changes, Brandon Adler, game director for *The Outer Worlds 2*, took to LinkedIn to share his thoughts on the hardships the studio is experiencing. He expressed the emotional impact of bidding farewell to skilled developers and close friends, underscoring the abilities and professionalism of those departing. His remarks highlight the close-knit community that thrives within Obsidian, reinforcing the caliber of talent that is now pursuing new opportunities in the industry.

Adler also spoke to the misunderstandings regarding Obsidian’s current condition and its growth over the years. He pointed out the widespread misinformation arising from public discussions, where individuals lacking a clear perspective of the studio’s history claim that Obsidian has lost its essence. He reassured fans that the core team behind acclaimed titles such as *The Outer Worlds*, *Pillars of Eternity*, and *Fallout: New Vegas* remains primarily intact, with many of the same individuals contributing to the studio’s present projects.

Reflecting on the studio’s transformations, Adler recognized that while some elements may have changed over two decades, the foundational “DNA” of Obsidian persists. He stressed the pride the team has in its legacy while remaining enthusiastic about its ongoing evolution and new paths.

Reports from *Bloomberg* indicate that Obsidian was heavily invested in a sequel to *Avowed* before the layoffs necessitated a reevaluation of focus towards a new *Fallout* game. However, it seems that work on the new *Avowed* will progress simultaneously. Additionally, the studio is working on multiple projects, one of which shares thematic connections with the *Fallout* series, now under the direction of design director Josh Sawyer.

These changes reflect a larger strategic shift by Xbox, which is aiming to optimize operations around its most thriving franchises. Xbox intends to speed up production timelines for major titles like *Halo* and *Fallout*, indicating a departure from the previous Game Pass-focused strategy that encouraged a variety of projects.

As the game development landscape continues to evolve, Obsidian Entertainment finds itself at a pivotal junction. While it faces the repercussions of layoffs and adjusted project priorities, it also boasts a resilient core ready to adapt and prosper amid these challenges. The commitment of its development team, combined with a rich history of creating cherished games, positions Obsidian for future advancement and success in an ever-changing gaming industry.

**The Conclusion of Physical Discs for PlayStation: A Significant Change in Gaming Culture**

As the gaming sector progresses, substantial modifications are imminent. PlayStation has revealed intentions to halt the production of physical disc releases for its games starting in 2028. This choice has ignited a flurry of emotions among fans and industry experts, leading to fervent discussions regarding the future of gaming and the consequences for collectors and gamers.

The shift to a digital-only model marks a significant change for a brand that has traditionally been linked with physical media. Numerous fans have expressed their displeasure regarding this decision, with various voices within the community actively criticizing PlayStation. Some opponents contend that this shift could indicate the end of physical media in gaming, while others are less vehement but still disheartened by the alteration.

Former PlayStation chief Shawn Layden has shared his perspective on the forthcoming transition. While recognizing the financial rationale behind Sony’s choice, he conveyed his sorrow as a fan. “Strictly as a fan, it just makes me kind of sad,” Layden noted, mirroring the feelings of many who value physical collections. He differentiated between the genres of games he prefers in digital versus physical formats, indicating that while he prefers digital for fast-paced titles like *Call of Duty*, games with rich narratives and artistry, such as *God of War*, deserve a physical place in his collection.

Layden’s remarks underscore a deeper bond that many gamers have with physical media—a bond that includes not only the games themselves but also collectible elements, such as artwork, packaging, and the sensory experience of possessing a physical copy.

Notable personalities in the gaming world, including celebrated game designer Hideo Kojima, have also expressed their dissatisfaction with PlayStation’s decision. The nostalgia and reverence for physical copies run deep, as these items represent memories and experiences built over years of gaming.

While many mourn the loss of physical discs, there is still a silver lining for collectors and fans of select titles. Notably, forthcoming releases like *God of War Laufey* are anticipated to be offered in physical form before the planned transition, providing enthusiasts one last opportunity to expand their collections before the inevitable migration to a completely digital environment.

As the gaming community comes to terms with this significant change, it highlights a wider dialogue about the future of media consumption, ownership, and the shifting nature of gaming experiences. While digital gaming brings convenience and accessibility, the charm of physical media continues to resonate deeply with many players, marking a crucial chapter in the evolution of gaming culture.

### The Transformation of Relationships in *The Walking Dead: Dead City*

Since its beginning, *The Walking Dead* has engaged viewers with its gripping narratives, multifaceted characters, and the moral challenges that emerge in a post-apocalyptic setting. Initially a flagship series for AMC, its impact reached far beyond television into larger pop culture. However, as audiences like many have faced declines in their engagement with the show, significant moments still struck a chord, particularly the savage death of Glenn Rhee at Negan’s hands. With the conclusion of the original series, many enthusiasts did not foresee the progression of relationships within its realm, especially the bond between Maggie and Negan in the spin-off *Dead City*.

#### An Exceptional Dynamic

*The Walking Dead: Dead City* presents the concept of former adversaries, Negan and Maggie, as they navigate survival in a reimagined New York City. The series makes the most of ongoing themes of trauma, atonement, and the intricate nature of human connections. While Maggie contends with the trauma of her husband’s demise due to Negan’s actions, the narrative illustrates how time and shared experiences can shift perceptions and relationships. Maggie’s path highlights her survival drive and the imperative for cooperation in a perilous world, even if it requires collaborating with someone she previously regarded as a monster.

#### The Shift in Narratives

Recent promotional material for the third season of *Dead City* has ignited discussions among fans, particularly through a clip showcasing Negan and Maggie sharing a close and seemingly carefree moment over drinks. Although these playful exchanges may indicate a transformation in their relationship, they provoke mixed responses from viewers, notably those who remember the trauma that marked their initial encounters.

Critics and fans are wrestling with the feasibility of Maggie and Negan developing a stronger bond after years of hostility. When does emotional healing take place? Can these two characters genuinely find comfort in each other following such devastation? The narrative is indeed intricate, as it urges audiences to rethink the potential for forgiveness and companionship in a brutal environment.

#### Fan Reactions and Cultural Relevance

The response to the evolving relationship dynamics has been apparent within the fandom, reflecting a broader conversation about storytelling in long-running series. Numerous fans express perplexity and dissatisfaction regarding the characters’ trajectory, particularly those who may have disengaged from the series after Glenn’s death. Commentary on social media showcases a blend of humor, surprise, and nostalgia as viewers reflect on the characters’ journeys and how much further they might still progress.

Noteworthy is the concern about the absurdity of the shifting dynamics; some fans believe it could diminish the established narrative significance of Glenn’s death, transforming what began as a tale of grief into something resembling “fanfiction.” On the other hand, there is an acknowledgment that character evolution in the realm of *The Walking Dead* often involves transformation, requiring the investigation of unconventional relationships.

#### Looking Ahead

As the launch of *The Walking Dead: Dead City*’s third season draws near, viewers are both eager and curious to see how the writers manage the intricate interactions between Negan and Maggie. With the premiere set for July 26, the unfolding story will likely reignite discussions about loss, redemption, and the essence of survival in a world where past grievances can sometimes yield unexpected alliances.

In summary, the transformation of Maggie and Negan’s relationship stands as a testament to the unpredictable nature of *The Walking Dead* universe, posing challenging queries regarding loyalty and forgiveness. As fans prepare for potential developments in their dynamic, the series keeps pushing the boundaries of perceptions surrounding morality and humanity amid turmoil.

**The Transformation in Gamer Attitudes: Call of Duty and the Debate Over Sony’s Digital Horizon**

The active discussion regarding physical versus digital gaming has experienced a notable shift with the latest announcement that *Call of Duty: Black Ops* and *Call of Duty: Black Ops II* are now accessible on the PlayStation 4 and 5. This decision by Sony has appeared to alter the conversation, breaking the cycle of unfavorable reactions the company encountered following its contentious reveal to eliminate physical game discs by 2028.

Sony’s pronouncement, which received significant criticism from the gaming community, intended to connect with a progressively digital-focused market. Nonetheless, the official announcement for the *Black Ops* ports on July 10 garnered an unexpectedly positive reaction, achieving 34,000 likes and merely 9,000 comments—an outlier given Sony’s recent trend of ratio’d tweets (where negative feedback greatly surpasses positive interactions). This marked a point where players seemed to briefly reconcile their discontent regarding Sony’s digital approach due to the nostalgic charm of the *Call of Duty* series.

The warm welcome of the *Black Ops* ports has incited inquiries about the robustness of the boycott led by those dissatisfied with Sony’s shift away from physical media. Doubters have started to speculate whether the strong demand for “no disc, no buy” is waning. Remarks from notable users on social media underscored this inconsistency, with one user humorously pointing out fans’ readiness to buy older titles devoid of major updates for $40 each, in addition to extra charges for downloadable content (DLC).

In spite of the enthusiasm surrounding the announcement, the ports themselves are not remastered editions; they offer minimal enhancements from their PS3 counterparts, which raises questions about the perceived worth of such products. The extra stipulation for players to subscribe to PlayStation Plus for online play complicates matters and contradicts the beliefs held by ardent advocates of physical media.

While some gamers rushed to the new releases, others continued to be vocal in their critiques. Not all voices in the community have yielded to the excitement. Social media was filled with posts from players pledging to leave the PlayStation ecosystem entirely, opting instead for alternatives like the Nintendo Switch or PC, and sharing photos of their canceled PlayStation Plus memberships.

Dr. Serkan Toto, a prominent analyst, highlighted that Sony is unlikely to reverse its stance on physical media. He noted that even a widespread cancellation of subscriptions would represent a minuscule segment of Sony’s active user base, suggesting that the shift to digital is now a firmly established path for the company. The durability of digital sales in comparison to physical media, despite outspoken dissent, indicates that many gamers are prepared to engage with digital products when thematically engaging content is presented, such as the *Call of Duty* series.

The rise of conspiracy theories surrounding analysts who share viewpoints different from dominant narratives reflects the charged environment in gaming discussions. The demand for a definitive moral standpoint in gaming often conflicts with real consumer behavior, revealing a fundamental conflict in the community.

In summary, the immediate repercussions of the *Black Ops* ports act as a gauge of current player feelings regarding digital transitions in gaming. While Sony’s actions may seem to reinforce its dedication to digital sales, the debate over physical versus digital media continues to simmer, exposing the intricacies of consumer loyalty and nostalgia within the gaming realm. As the industry advances, the ongoing discussions are likely to influence future developments, with the nuanced views of gamers becoming increasingly essential in guiding the conversation ahead.

**Letterboxd: The Possible Change in Ownership and Its Consequences for Film Discussion**

Letterboxd stands as a key platform for movie lovers, allowing users to monitor, critique, and celebrate their passion for films. Lately, reports have surfaced indicating that Tiny, the Canadian holding entity behind Letterboxd, is considering potential sale options, targeting major entertainment giants like Netflix, Sony Pictures Entertainment, and Paramount Skydance.

As per a report by *Puck*, talks have occurred concerning a sale to these industry giants, stirring worries about the platform’s future. While Versant, the owner of Fandango and Rotten Tomatoes, has also shown interest, the possibility of Letterboxd being acquired by large entertainment firms raises questions. The inherent conflicts of interest that can emerge when media companies control platforms for audience interaction may lead to biased content moderation and impact on what users can convey about films.

The concern extends beyond ownership issues to the concept of “enshittification,” where distinctive online environments degrade into commercialized entities prioritizing engagement-driven content. This apprehension is especially evident regarding Netflix’s assertive growth tactics, which include branching out into podcasts and short-form video offerings. These strategies seem targeted at enhancing viewer retention in the face of increasing subscription fees, potentially changing the fundamental nature of what Letterboxd currently embodies.

The incorporation of a movie blogging tool directly into the Netflix application might lead to significant repercussions. While it could draw users wanting to interact with film content, it risks reducing a cherished community to just another element of a subscription service. This could undermine the spontaneous, user-generated conversations that have thrived on Letterboxd, as algorithm-based recommendations and content curations eclipse personal reviews and discussions.

As talks progress, the future of Letterboxd remains uncertain, with its potential takeover presenting either a chance to reach wider audiences or a danger to its primary aim of nurturing authentic film appreciation. The film community observes with intent, understanding that any shift in ownership could redefine one of the last strongholds for sincere cinematic dialogue.

### Valve’s $1,000 Steam Machine: A Comprehensive Performance Evaluation

Valve’s highly awaited Steam Machine, retailing at $1,000, has been garnering interest from gamers since it hit the market. In the last two weeks, I have extensively evaluated the device, testing a range of games from my collection and assessing its performance across various situations. This detailed review is intended to shed light on how the Steam Machine performs as a gaming console with minimal adjustments.

#### Initial Setup Encounter

Upon acquiring a 2TB Steam Machine, I promptly set it up, retaining the default settings to see how it manages games straight from the box. The device operates games at 1080p, which are then upscaled to 4K on my television. I ensured that the majority of titles were played at their standard settings, without significant modifications, reflecting the experience of an average console user who connects, downloads games, and plays effortlessly.

My game selection encompassed indie releases as well as AAA games, both recent and classic, across various genres. This eclectic assortment allowed for a well-rounded examination of the Steam Machine’s strengths.

#### Game Performance Summary

Here’s an overview of how different games performed:

– **Cyberpunk 2077**: Solid performance with 60 FPS and light ray tracing on standard settings. Stability decreased at greater resolutions.

– **Mouse: P.I. for Hire**: Needed minor adjustment (stick sensitivity), running smoothly at 60 FPS.

– **Left 4 Dead 2**: A classic that runs flawlessly on the Steam Machine, demonstrating its capability with less demanding games.

– **Borderlands 4**: Initial experience was lackluster, but adjusting settings significantly enhanced visuals.

– **Hades 2**: This title excelled, providing a fantastic experience with standard settings.

– **Silent Hill 2**: Displayed poor visuals; not advisable for this system.

– **Doom: The Dark Ages**: Strong performance, though slightly unclear on standard settings, could improve with tweaks.

– **Megabonk**: Functioned perfectly, delivering an enjoyable gaming experience.

– **Spider-Man 2**: Basic performance was adequate; upscaling to 1440p helped, but still did not match PS5 quality.

– **Windrose**: Struggled at standard settings; significant adjustments were needed which affected clarity.

– **Overwatch**: Impressive performance, with visuals enhanced while keeping solid gameplay.

– **Grand Theft Auto V**: Initial setup was complex due to launcher requirements, but decent performance followed configuration.

– **Gears of War Reloaded**: Blurry graphics at base settings; tweaks provided clearer visuals without losing performance.

– **Fallout 4**: Smooth performance, though exploring busier regions may affect frame rates.

– **Control Ultimate Edition**: Performance was unstable at 4K; adjustments were necessary for consistency.

– **Arc Raiders**: Playable right out of the box, but visuals lacked clarity compared to other systems.

– **Elden Ring**: Performed well from the onset; adjusting graphic settings further improved the experience.

– **Vampire Crawlers**: Executed perfectly in 2D, appearing sharp on larger screens.

– **Resident Evil 4 Remake**: Performance was sufficient; visuals had minor issues but were still playable.

– **Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart**: Default settings resulted in poor performance; adjustments allowed for better stability.

– **Helldivers 2**: Excellent performance; visuals held their own against competing platforms.

– **Resident Evil Requiem**: Attractive graphics with good performance, though less impressive than on rival consoles.

– **The Last of Us Part II Remastered**: Smooth experience with stunning visuals; among the standout performances on the Steam Machine.

– **Peak**: Outstanding co-op experience with no need for adjustments, making it ideal for local multiplayer.

– **Warhammer 40K: Darktide**: Initial performance was lacking; however, tweaks helped stabilize frame rates.

– **Halo: Master Chief Collection**: Did not run properly due to launch issues requiring Xbox account access.

– **Tiny Terry’s Turbo Trip**: Worked flawlessly; a charming indie experience fitting for the Steam Machine.

– **Rage**: Despite concerns, it performed well albeit with some setup issues related to controller compatibility.

#### Conclusion

The results of testing the Valve Steam Machine reveal that while it is a distinctive piece of gaming hardware with significant potential, its current price tag is too high for broader recommendations. The device is suited for dedicated gamers seeking a compact method to display their Steam library on a larger screen. However, for casual gamers or those mainly interested in new releases—especially with major titles like **Grand Theft Auto 6** on the horizon—there are more economical options available.

For players with an extensive collection of Steam games, particularly older titles

## 11th July

Greetings and welcome back to our ongoing segment where we share insights about the games we’re currently immersed in. This time around, everyone’s feeling the heat once more. Glad you noticed, Bertie. Kelsey is diving into embroidery, drawing artistic inspiration from [Silksong](https://www.eurogamer.net/games/hollow-knight-silksong); Bertie’s raving about the time mechanics in The Blood of Dawnwalker; Marie has developed an infatuation with Death; and Matt believes he’s uncovered a clever instance of breaking the fourth wall in a game.

What have you been gaming on this week?

Here’s another thought: do you recall what you played last week? No need to worry! [The What We’ve Been Playing archive](https://www.eurogamer.net/topics/what-weve-been-playing) has got you sorted.

### Silksong… arts and crafts?, An Embroidery Hoop

Aside from a bit of time spent exploring the Caribbean in Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced for work this week, it’s been way too warm in my home to even think about gaming. That said, I also can’t just sit around and turn into a puddle on my sofa, so I’ve returned to an old hobby: embroidery.

I refer to it as an old hobby because I haven’t picked up my needle and threads in months, but inspiration has recently struck in the form of a simple Hornet-themed project featuring the beloved weaver on her own needle. Crafting her with thread felt incredibly fitting, and it’s led me to realize that [Hollow Knight](https://www.eurogamer.net/games/hollow-knight) and Silksong’s 2D characters are ideal for embroidery. The chunky colors, the striking outlines, the straightforward yet captivating designs. I’ve now shifted focus to a Trobbio-inspired project, but I also have plans for a much grander Soul Master endeavor soon. Perhaps Bertie will allow me to share some images in a few weeks…

*–Kelsey*

### The Blood of Dawnwalker, PC

The Blood of Dawnwalker.[Watch on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKOVwBBGBds)

Indeed, Bertie certainly will, Kelsey. Motion approved.

I dedicated four hours to The Blood of Dawnwalker recently – a title that Dom has spoiled for me by pointing out it resembles a person’s name: Dawn Walker. I can’t unhear it. The Blood of Dawn Walker. It sounds grim, yet also vaguely like a BBC detective series?

Regardless, I was taken with the game. I’m especially excited about the feature that seems to leave everyone a bit puzzled: the game’s management of time. Dawnwalker has a time limit, sort of, though that’s not the most helpful lens. It’s better to view it as time being intentional here; it doesn’t merely trickle away like grains of sand in an hourglass. To advance time in a manner that counts against the limit, you have to deliberately select an option in a quest that does so – an option marked with a time symbol, indicating this will happen. Nearly every quest features such options; the overall effect is that you won’t manage to complete all quests, although you can tackle about 80 percent of them in one session, according to the developer, so there’s plenty to do.

The aim is for you to make choices while time acts as a significant factor in the adventure, which, in numerous other role-playing games, it isn’t. In most, you have unlimited time to tackle minor tasks while the major ones linger. I much prefer how Dawnwalker approaches it – it tackles a fundamental flaw in RPGs.

*–Bertie*

### Moonlight Peaks, Switch 2

Peak romance.[Watch on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPTBY7wPGzA)

Death’s on holiday and I’m about to seriously woo him. Well, in theory, that is. Romance is merely a slice of what you can engage in within Moonlight Peaks, and Death is among the many characters you can charm. There’s also Llemi the love demon, which is quite the title, but something about Death being a laid-back guy on vacation caught my attention. One moment that genuinely amused me occurred during the first heart event with him, where he humorously notes that the drinks are going straight through him since he’s a skeleton, and he’s creating a puddle on the ground beneath him. “I’m a good tipper, so this should be fine,” he casually remarks – it really made me laugh.

This game possesses something enchanting. Sure, it includes a lot of literal magic, but there’s something about how I keep playing without becoming bored. I play a great deal of farming and life simulations, often drifting away from them shortly after starting, but I’m captivated by Moonlight Peaks. From being

Another horrendously hot Saturday, another wedding to go to. I am all in favour of love, but could we please reschedule it to a cooler day in the year? Mercifully this one’s a London wedding and it can be reached and returned from on the tube. Though travelling on a hot carriage and not arriving looking like a boiled saveloy pressed into a too-small suit will be a challenge.

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