Gait Games

**Marathon’s Pre-Launch Server Slam: The Arc Raiders Controversy**

Today signifies an exhilarating milestone for Bungie’s new extraction shooter, *Marathon*, as the pre-launch server slam kicked off, drawing in over 100,000 enthusiastic players across PC and console platforms. The event provided players the chance to try the game at no cost, but it wasn’t long before users began to test the boundaries of in-game chat by mentioning *Arc Raiders*, the title’s most formidable rival in the genre.

When users entered “Arc Raiders” in squad chat, they encountered an unexpected censorship: the message was substituted with “*** *******”. This peculiar restriction swiftly captured the attention of the gaming community, with a clip from a well-known Twitch streamer showcasing the incident going viral.

Zack Zwiezen from *Kotaku*, who is also partaking in the *Marathon* beta, executed a small experiment to further explore the censorship. He discovered that players could type variations like “arc,” “raiders,” and even “arcraiders,” but the complete title “Arc Raiders” continued to be blocked. This perplexing choice ignited curiosity and discussion regarding the motivations behind such a selective censorship approach.

Notably, this isn’t the first time *Arc Raiders* has experienced analogous censorship. Last fall, *Call of Duty: Black Ops 7* encountered a similar predicament, which was subsequently resolved through a patch. Moreover, reports have surfaced that EA has been censoring *Arc Raiders* in their upcoming titles, exemplifying a trend among shooters in the competitive sphere.

In the realm of *Marathon*, the competition with *Arc Raiders* is tangible, as the game’s success hinges on attracting players away from *Arc Raiders* during its new season. Differing philosophies regarding cheat bans have also created friction between the two titles, with initial reports suggesting that *Marathon* has adopted novel methods to combat cheating.

As the pre-launch weekend progresses, player feedback points to a promising beginning for *Marathon*, despite the chat censorship issue.

**Update:**
As of February 26, 2026, the censorship glitch has been fixed, permitting appreciation for *Arc Raiders* back into the chat on Tau Ceti. The *Marathon Development Team* confirmed the modification via a tweet, inviting players to openly discuss all facets of the gaming universe once more.

I’m finding Surgent Studios, the developer of Tales of Zenzera: ZAU and Dead Take, increasingly difficult to pin down, though, not in a bad way. Those two games are a far cry from one another in both atmosphere, genre, and mechanics, and now the studio’s next game is something completely different once again: FixForce, an extraction platformer, a combination of words that might finally pin down Those Types of Games.

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**The Growth of Stardew Valley: A Decade of Agricultural Adventures and Bonds**

In the last decade, *Stardew Valley* has risen from its modest origins as an indie title to be crowned the most adored farming simulation ever. The game, developed by Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone, has kept on progressing, with significant updates arriving even after Barone announced his plans to ease off on development. As the game celebrates its 10th birthday, Barone has introduced thrilling new features, including more characters to romance and a fond reflection on the game’s journey.

In a recent anniversary video, Barone revealed two fresh candidates for marriage in the anticipated 1.7 update: Clint and Sandy. Clint, the local blacksmith, often faces criticism from players, with some describing him as incel-like. On the other hand, Sandy, an enigmatic character who operates a shop in the desert, is well-received and introduces an exciting element to the game.

Die-hard fans of *Stardew Valley* speculated for weeks about the identities of the new marriage options, yearning for new characters or even the possibility of wooing the Wizard. While Sandy’s potential involvement sparked excitement among players, the reception of Clint was more varied. Numerous players questioned the nature of the marriage selections and expressed a desire for more appealing options.

The anniversary video also provided charming peeks into the game’s early development phases, specifically from its initial iteration, *Sprout Valley*, from 2012. This marks the first occasion that significant footage from this version has been unveiled, showcasing a world that closely resembled the game we know today. However, Barone openly criticized the original pixel art as “crap,” acknowledging his journey as a developer and the transformation of his vision for *Stardew Valley*. He considered what might have transpired if he had released the game too soon.

Despite its shaky start, the game quickly evolved into the version that has captivated millions. A build from just a year after *Sprout Valley* displayed significant similarities to the final outcome, underlining Barone’s remarkable turnaround as a solo creator.

The retrospective also pointed out numerous ambitious elements that were eventually discarded, including procedurally generated mines inspired by *Terraria*, along with a whole underground goblin settlement that never made it to the finished game. These forfeited components have sparked speculation about the game’s lore, allowing fans to engage with the history of *Stardew Valley* in innovative and exciting manners.

Nonetheless, not every disclosure was met with excitement. Many gamers, particularly those who have fostered in-game relationships, voiced their dissatisfaction regarding Clint’s romantic presence since he often flirts with other established characters, complicating the story for those who have entered into their own farmer’s journeys. In contrast, Sandy’s inclusion opens up new avenues for gameplay challenges, as players will need to navigate towards encountering her later in their adventure.

Perhaps the most entertaining tidbit revealed in the video was Barone’s surprising pronunciation of Qi, an endgame character known for presenting the game’s toughest quests. Learning that Qi’s last name is pronounced “qwee” left fans both puzzled and amused, showcasing the delightful charm that Barone has woven into his game.

In summary, *Stardew Valley* continues to enhance the gaming world with new content and a nostalgic revisitation of its origins. As the game progresses, players are reminded of the passion and care that have gone into creating this beloved farming simulation, ensuring the legacy of *Stardew Valley* will last for many more years.

Samson looks like it’ll offer the sort of dumb action fun I can’t resist, and it’s now locked in a full release date. Liquid Swords, the Swedish studio founded by former Just Cause and Mad Max developer Christofer Sundberg, are set to let their game about a bloke attempting to brawl and car chase his way out of crippling debt loose in early April.

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### New York Attorney General Takes Legal Action Against Valve Over Loot Boxes in Counter-Strike 2

In a notable legal development, New York Attorney General Letitia James declared on February 25, 2026, that her office has initiated a lawsuit against Valve Corporation. The lawsuit focuses on the sale of loot boxes and virtual keys in well-known games like *Counter-Strike 2*, charging the gaming giant with fostering illegal gambling activities that breach state laws. James contends that these practices may result in addiction, especially among at-risk groups such as children and teenagers, and is aiming to cease the sale of these features in New York, along with seeking possible financial repercussions for Valve.

### Repercussions from the Lawsuit

The announcement quickly ignited an energetic discussion on social media, particularly on Twitter, where AG James’s tweet accumulated over 8,000 replies within a day. Numerous users voiced their discontent regarding the attorney general’s choice to target Valve, which is predominantly seen as a top player in the gaming sector. This backlash has been compared to a collective “review bombing” aimed at the AG, with many advocates supporting Valve’s stance, arguing that *Counter-Strike* is rated for mature audiences and that it should not be the company’s responsibility if minors access the game.

Opponents of the lawsuit also highlighted similar businesses employing comparable monetization tactics, suggesting that other gaming companies like EA and Activision, and even gacha mobile games, could be subject to the same level of scrutiny. Some Twitter users additionally asserted that conventional forms of gambling, such as trading cards and arcade toy-dispensing machines, operate similarly to video game loot boxes.

### Community Feedback on Reddit

The lawsuit has also incited conversations across various gaming subreddits. While some users continued to defend Valve, deeming the lawsuit an overreach, others took a more critical view on loot boxes, insisting that legal action was overdue. Certain community members recalled previous instances where such lawsuits led to enhancements in gaming practices, referencing Valve’s new refund policy as a favorable result of earlier legal pressures.

### Could This Lawsuit Transform Gaming Practices?

Numerous commentators are optimistic that if New York’s lawsuit succeeds, it may encourage Valve to implement stricter regulations concerning loot boxes and potentially clamp down on third-party skin gambling platforms. Advocates for stricter regulations argue that such actions could shield younger gamers from exploitative practices related to gambling mechanics in video games.

### Controversial Remarks in the Press Release

However, as reactions developed, some users began to voice concerns over additional comments made by AG James in her press release suggesting that the lawsuit encompassed more than just gambling. The attorney general asserted that Valve’s promotion of violent games exacerbates the gun violence crisis, particularly among youths who may become desensitized to violence before reaching adulthood. This claim has sparked doubt regarding the attorney general’s intentions, with some calling the lawsuit a “Trojan horse” aimed at condemning violent video games.

### Conclusion

The legal case against Valve signifies a crucial point in the ongoing debate surrounding loot boxes and their ramifications in the gaming industry. While the company has yet to issue a public statement regarding the lawsuit, community opinions remain split on the matter. As discussions about the societal impact of video games persist, this lawsuit could potentially alter the course of game monetization practices in the near term.

Why do they always make cyborg types in movies and games talk like that? You know what I mean, that kind of “I’m not a robot but I talk as if I am one,” kind of cadence. We may never find the answer, but in any case, such a case has cropped up again in the latest update for Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, which introduces the Techmarine class for you to spill some guts with.

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# The Lasting Impact of The Simpsons: Hit and Run

There was a period when the gaming world boasted thrilling releases inspired by *The Simpsons*. Although not every title was a success, similar to the episodes of the celebrated animated show, there was a unique joy in navigating the realm of Springfield through different interactive formats. Nonetheless, in recent times, new releases have dwindled, leading to noticeable frustration among fans. Still, the legacy of one seminal game—*The Simpsons: Hit and Run*—persists, providing fans with multiple avenues to revisit its open-world escapades.

## The Ultimate Way to Experience *The Simpsons: Hit and Run*

The best method to savor *The Simpsons: Hit and Run* today is via Donut Team’s custom PC launcher. This dedicated modding team has spent over ten years refining the original, often flawed PC version. Their work enables contemporary users to enjoy the game effortlessly while adding new features, bug fixes, and mod support.

To begin, players need a digital copy of *The Simpsons: Hit and Run* for PC, which can prove difficult due to its scarcity and price. Current eBay listings show sealed copies fetching prices over $70. While there are other online means to obtain the game, details on those methods are best kept private.

Once you secure the game, installing the modified launcher involves downloading it from Donut Team’s official website, directing it to your current installation, and in no time, you’ll be back in the lively streets of Springfield. This updated version supports modern controllers and enhances the visuals, making the experience feel revitalized even years after its launch.

Additionally, the excitement continues; players can navigate a broad array of mods from Donut Team that introduce new vehicles, missions, and even elements from other *Simpsons* games, ensuring a vibrant and continuously evolving gameplay experience.

## How to Play *The Simpsons: Hit and Run* on Steam Deck

Donut Team’s work extends to more than standard PC environments, as their launcher and mods are compatible with the Steam Deck. While using a physical disc version on the device isn’t feasible, the community has shared methods to run the game on this portable console, as presented in various online tutorials. Although it does necessitate some technical proficiency to transfer files and access desktop mode, the rewards are significant.

Players who have set up *Hit and Run* on their Steam Deck have remarked on the convenience of engaging with this nostalgic title anywhere at any time. With some additional adjustments, the gameplay can be further optimized, and adding mods breathes new life into the experience that resonates with long-time enthusiasts.

## Playing *The Simpsons: Hit and Run* through Emulation

For those seeking a more traditional console-like feel, emulation offers another path. Programs such as PCXS2 and Dolphin allow users to run *The Simpsons: Hit and Run* on PC, effectively mirroring its original gameplay. However, there are compromises; the visual quality may not align with the enhancements available in Donut Team’s launcher, and the nostalgic essence may differ from the modded experiences.

Although many nostalgic gamers tend to emulate less frequently nowadays, the appeal of recalling when they first played the game on PlayStation 2 or GameCube remains potent. Emulating provides a viable option for players aiming to relive those early experiences.

## The Least Favorable Way to Play *The Simpsons: Hit and Run*

Out of all options, playing *The Simpsons: Hit and Run* on original hardware, such as the PlayStation 2, offers the least enjoyment in 2026. While the idea of rekindling that nostalgia can be enticing, the challenges of setup—locating a working console, connecting everything, and managing outdated technology—render it less convenient compared to current alternatives.

Though the nostalgia of gathering friends for a late-night gaming session is undeniable, the ease and enhancements offered through modern systems overshadow the experience of original hardware, making it the least preferred choice.

In summary, even though *The Simpsons: Hit and Run* was launched years ago, the enthusiasm of the community and technological innovations ensure it remains a cherished game. Whether through Donut Team’s launcher on PC or emulation approaches, fans have numerous ways to enjoy this classic title that continues to occupy a significant place in gaming history.

Antarctica is quite possibly the perfect setting for anything remotely horror related, given its absolute remoteness. All you’ll find there are penguins, seals, and fungus, it is as no where as no where can be, of course serving as the setting for The Thing, so I guess maybe that’s there too. And soon, the tundra will be home to another piece of horror media, a psychological horror game called Cryptica “where the apocalypse is just the beginning.” Oh goody!

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### Controversy Surrounds Videogamer’s Review of *Resident Evil Requiem*

A recent critique of *Resident Evil Requiem* published by the UK gaming news source *Videogamer* has ignited controversy and has been taken down from Metacritic due to accusations that it was written by a fictional AI journalist. This discovery follows significant transformations at *Videogamer*, including layoffs and a pivot towards AI-generated material.

#### The Review and Its Fallout

The critique, which gave *Resident Evil Requiem* a commendable score of 9/10, was credited to Brian Merrygold, portrayed as an “experienced iGaming and sports betting analyst.” However, readers promptly observed that Merrygold seemed to be an invented character, with indications suggesting the employment of AI in both the writing style and the profile picture. Critics pointed out that the review was riddled with clichés and lacked detailed understandings of the game, further intensifying doubts about its authenticity.

An excerpt from the review states:

“*Resident Evil Requiem is not just a victory lap for Capcom’s survival horror dynasty; it is a chainsaw-revving, blood-soaked testament to why we love getting scared stupid.*”

This kind of generic phrasing raised alarms among gamers and industry watchers, who considered it typical of AI-generated writing.

#### Implications for Metacritic and Quality Control

The review was initially included on Metacritic’s score aggregator but was later removed after examination. The incident prompts considerable concerns regarding the quality control protocols of Metacritic, a service frequently utilized for consulting video game reviews prior to making purchases.

Marc Doyle, co-founder of Metacritic, confirmed in an email to *Kotaku* that the *Resident Evil Requiem* review, along with several others from *Videogamer*, had been taken down due to dubious authorship authenticity. The reliability of reviews is vital for both consumers and developers, and the rise of AI-generated content poses pressing questions about the future of gaming journalism.

#### The Shift to AI-generated Content

Sources have revealed that the shift to AI-generated articles at *Videogamer* commenced after the site was acquired by Clickout, a firm known for its involvement in gambling SEO tactics. Following the recent layoffs, it appears *Videogamer* has started publishing AI-produced pieces across various sections, including game critiques. This transition has led to the removal of the site’s former human bylines, replaced with profiles that appear to be artificially fabricated.

Further investigations uncovered that numerous authors on the site have similarly dubious backgrounds, with their profiles surfacing only recently and often utilizing AI-generated images. This has initiated a larger conversation about the ramifications of automated content generation in gaming journalism.

#### The Broader Impact

The controversy surrounding *Resident Evil Requiem* reflects a rising trend within the gaming sector where the distinction between authentic human commentary and AI-generated content is becoming increasingly indistinct. With gamers depending on reviews to guide their purchasing choices, it is crucial for platforms like Metacritic to thoroughly vet the material they compile for authenticity.

The removal of the *Resident Evil Requiem* review acts as a reminder for both consumers and journalists regarding the potential hazards of AI within the writing realm. As the domain of gaming journalism transforms, preserving integrity and authenticity will be essential in maintaining trust within the community.

### Conclusion

The unfolding events with *Videogamer* and its recent *Resident Evil Requiem* critique highlight the necessity for vigilance in this age of AI-generated content. As the gaming sector navigates these obstacles, consumers and professionals alike must push for transparency and accountability to ensure that the subtleties of gaming experiences are accurately conveyed.

Colony sim and city builder Going Medieval will leave early access on 12th March, at which point it will presumably be retitled Gone Medieval. Yes, this is the sort of joke that ought to get you imprisoned – imprisonment being one of many features added to Going Medieval since the winter of 2021, when Sin described it as “a buildier, friendlier Rimworld spinoff”.

Other elements introduced over the long, increasingly Medieval years include fire, water, siege weapons, and a trading system. The 1.0 launch will bring “a proper endgame, wonderful improvements, new content, and a lot of achievements”, write developers Foxy Voxel on Steam. God be praised! Break out the good wine, slaughter the prize calf and let the trumpets ring from the battlements! Here’s a trailer.

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