Gait Games

Palworld has honestly lived, and thrived, a lot longer than I honestly expected to. I guess the people really do want Pokemon with guns! As since its launch two years ago (ignore the coffee I’ve spat over my screen at that passage of time), there have been announcements for spin-offs in the form of Stardew Valley if it were Pokemon but actually it’s Palworld, a dating sim that started as a joke but will now be real, and more recently, a card game. Despite all of that expansion, however, developer Pocketpair say they have “no desire to be a media empire.”

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### Pokémon Speedrunning: A Novel Glitch in FireRed

Pokémon has enchanted fans for years, establishing a unique spot in the speedrunning community that few games can rival. The series’ earlier titles, often featuring delicate coding, are filled with glitches that even novice players have encountered. These exploits serve as rare candies for speedrunners, and a recent time skip uncovered in the latest Nintendo Switch port of *Pokémon FireRed* has sparked renewed interest and rivalry among competitors.

Launched in conjunction with the series’ 30th anniversary, the updated version of *Pokémon FireRed* drew speedrunners eager to discover new exploits. The most notable of these was accidentally found by Swiss speedrunner [iamClemi](https://www.speedrun.com/users/iamClemi). While in Professor Oak’s lab trying to choose a Charmander with ideal stats, an unintended press of the L button—a feature more significant on the Switch compared to the original Game Boy Advance—unexpectedly accessed the help menu. During this occurrence, iamClemi observed the lack of a sound cue typically heard when collecting a Poké Ball. Although it didn’t save any time right then, it ignited curiosity that would lead to major findings.

Unveiling the help menu proved to have significant effects on gameplay. The omission of various sound cues notably changes interaction dynamics throughout the game. Scenarios such as gathering items or healing at Pokémon Centers happen in silence, as if the game is lamenting the absence of its musical jingles. However, a major advantage arises when capturing wild Pokémon; the normal delay for celebratory music is entirely removed, allowing players to instantly access the Pokédex entry for the Pokémon just caught.

“This is undoubtedly the largest time save identified in any Game Boy Pokémon game since RNG manipulation was discovered nearly a decade ago,” stated runner [Gunnermaniac](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zjHSrnD8rQ) in a YouTube video. He currently holds the record for completing the [Elite 4 Round 2 category](https://www.speedrun.com/pkmnfrlg/runs/yjqqrngm), a section exclusive to the *FireRed* and *LeafGreen* versions. This segment requires runners to capture at least 60 distinct Pokémon, and the new glitch saves roughly 2.68 seconds for each capture. While two seconds may not appear significant individually, the overall effect can be considerable across multiple speedrun categories.

Gunnermaniac himself acknowledges the potential threat this discovery poses to his existing record, which only heightens the excitement and competitive essence inherent in the speedrunning community. As players persist in refining their tactics and leveraging new exploits like this, the race to achieve the quickest completion times in *Pokémon FireRed* promises to remain exhilarating. Speedrunners will undoubtedly keep exploring this classic title, pushing themselves and one another to investigate the intricacies of its coding and mechanics in search of perfection.

Slay the Spire 2 is, quite notably, a game in early access. This means many things, but most importantly it means that any changes that are made aren’t necessarily final, they’re just more tests to see what does and doesn’t work. The roguelike deckbuilder’s first proper update went live yesterday, adding in a phobia mode with some bespoke assets and making a whole bunch of tweaks. It’s that second part that has riled up the feathers of some spire slayers (just have a brief trawl of recent reviews), prompting developer Mega Crit to take a moment to explain just how they go about their “patching methodology.”

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# The Comeback of a Missing Episode: A Landmark for *Mystery Science Theater 3000*

*Mystery Science Theater 3000* (MST3K) has held a cherished place in television lore since its launch nearly four decades ago, showcasing 230 episodes across different networks, including KTMA, Comedy Central, Sci-Fi (now known as Syfy), and Netflix. Renowned for its distinctive format where robots humorously comment on feature-length B-movies, the show has built a devoted following. However, the legal intricacies surrounding long-term rights to the series’ material have led to certain episodes becoming “lost” over the years, with no home media availability or archival copies.

Recently, a YouTube account managed by “Arthur Putie” attracted attention by uploading an episode previously believed to be lost from MST3K. This specific episode marks the third installment of the series, showcasing Joel Hodgson and his robot friends as they comically critique the 1987 Japanese space opera *Star Force*. Originally broadcast locally on Minneapolis television, this episode has been shrouded in obscurity for 37 years, making its recent upload noteworthy for fans and aficionados of television lore.

Throughout its history, MST3K has consistently encouraged its viewers to record and share their own tapes, with reminders frequently shown during the end credits. While some memorable episodes have been released on VHS and DVD, the show’s atypical format complicates the acquisition of consistent licensing. Consequently, various episodes have circulated on platforms like YouTube, and the emergence of this lost episode contributes to the expanding digital repository of MST3K content.

The notion of “lost media” has garnered significant attention in recent times, with many television programs, both well-known and obscure, grappling with the fallout of the pre-home media era. Networks frequently disposed of original recordings, resulting in the vanishing of numerous broadcasts. This issue is not exclusive to MST3K; for instance, several episodes of *Monty Python’s Flying Circus* have not been seen since their original broadcasts, and critical episodes of *Doctor Who* have also been permanently lost, including those introducing the Cybermen.

In addition to the unearthing of lost content, 2023 has turned out to be an exhilarating year for MST3K enthusiasts overall. An effective Kickstarter campaign succeeded in raising $3 million in February to create four new episodes with original cast members. The upload of the *Star Force* episode, seemingly arriving without much fanfare or a video description, further enhances the legacy of the show and underscores the significance of maintaining rare media.

*Star Force* acts as a sequel to *Fugitive Alien*, which MST3K revisited later on. The film features a space scoundrel named Ken, whose escapades include a notorious scene involving an assassination attempt using a forklift.

In summary, the accessibility of this lost episode marks a pivotal moment for *Mystery Science Theater 3000* and its loyal audience. It highlights not only the show’s lasting charm but also the crucial part that fans have in safeguarding television history through shared memories and recordings.

**Nathan Fillion Unveils Animated Revival of *Firefly***

Recently, *Castle* star and newly appointed Green Lantern Nathan Fillion announced that he is working on an animated revival of the beloved cult sci-fi western *Firefly*. This announcement has generated excitement among fans who have long sought more material from the series created by Joss Whedon. However, Fillion specified that the new project will not act as a continuation of the current narrative, nor will it resume from the point where the crew concluded in the 2005 film *Serenity*.

In a discussion with *Deadline*, Fillion shared that the animation will be set in a distinct realm where all favored characters are alive. This idea emerged from a playful remark made by Alan Tudyk, who played Hoban Washburne in the original show. Tudyk dubbed the new setting the “Wash Is Still Alive Time,” humorously highlighting the wish for all main characters to reappear despite the original series’ poignant ending.

Fillion emphasized the necessity of featuring the complete original crew in this revival. He conveyed that a *Firefly* project lacking the full cast wouldn’t do justice to the characters and narrative. Fillion acknowledged that while there were talks about a storyline continuing from the events of *Serenity*, he believes the film offered a suitable farewell to the series. “If we’d only had one more opportunity to create something, that was it, and it was stunning. I can’t match that,” Fillion remarked. Instead, he intends to transport the audience back in time, reuniting the original cast to deliver what fans have been longing for: more *Firefly*.

While the enthusiasm among fans is palpable following Fillion’s announcement, the series is still in the proposal phase. Although there are showrunners and writers onboard and support from 20th Century and Joss Whedon—who is not actively participating—there’s no assurance that the project will move forward to full production. This announcement follows the cancellation of the *Buffy the Vampire Slayer* revival, underlining the uncertain nature of bringing back cherished series.

Fillion’s vision for *Firefly* aims to tap into the nostalgia and loyalty of its fanbase, many of whom have sought additional stories from the *Firefly* universe for years. Whether this new animated series can take off remains unclear, but the effort surely reignites the hope for devoted fans still clinging to the essence of *Firefly*.

**Crimson Desert: Tackling Control Scheme Challenges and Player Input**

*Crimson Desert*, the eagerly awaited action-adventure game from Pearl Abyss, has elicited a wide array of responses from players since its debut. Regardless of personal viewpoints on the title, a major point of contention has been its control scheme. Players have reported a variety of obstacles, mentioning several counterintuitive and confusing input options that detract from gameplay enjoyment. In light of these issues, Pearl Abyss has pledged to enhance the situation with an upcoming update.

In a recent public announcement, Pearl Abyss recognized the input they’ve been receiving since the game’s release, especially regarding the control system. The announcement declares, “Since launch, we have been attentively listening to your feedback and striving to make enhancements to the game. Specifically, we are conscious of the inconvenience many players have encountered with the controls, and we are in the process of developing a patch to resolve this.”

A key illustration of the problematic control scheme appears in the gameplay footage from well-known streamer CohhCarnage, which showcased the difficulty involved in performing a single attack that necessitates players to engage both a shoulder button and a trigger at the same time. This peculiar requirement is just a glimpse of the control problems players have faced.

Moreover, Pearl Abyss has recognized that PC gamers have encountered notable difficulties due to an inadequate keyboard and mouse control setup. The developers have apologized to these players, stressing their commitment to enhancing the gaming experience. Notably, concerns have surfaced regarding the choice to link the sprint function to the Shift key. Many have observed that this design could lead to discomfort, especially during lengthy gameplay sessions, as keeping the Shift key pressed may become physically straining and activate undesired accessibility features like Sticky Keys.

While the announcement primarily concentrated on the updates for the control scheme, it intentionally left out any references to other developing controversies surrounding the game, such as claims regarding the inclusion of AI-generated art in *Crimson Desert*. This omission may imply that Pearl Abyss is devising a strategy to ease potential backlash connected to this issue, possibly choosing a more subtle approach to resolution.

As the developers gear up for the anticipated control scheme patch, players will be closely monitoring for updates and enhancements. Whether these modifications will effectively tackle the reported problems is yet to be determined, but the assurance from Pearl Abyss to heed and respond to feedback demonstrates a readiness to adapt and improve the game for its players. With optimism high for a more user-friendly control experience, fans are eagerly awaiting the advancements that will influence *Crimson Desert’s* future gameplay.

I truly hope the sun has got his hat on this weekend as I’m cycling out to family in the countryside and I’d rather not arrive soaked through by rain. Granted, I will be arriving soaked through with sweat, but I am happy with this outcome. For reasons I can’t quite fathom, self-wetted clothes are bearable, weather-wetted clothes are intolerable.

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**Slay the Spire 2 Faces Criticism After Beta Patch v0.100.0**

In the last 24 hours, *Slay the Spire 2* has experienced a decline in its Steam rating from an Overwhelmingly Positive 97% to a Very Positive 83%, indicating a notable shift as roughly 11,000 negative reviews appeared almost instantly. This marked drop prompts inquiries into the reasons behind it, particularly as the fluctuation coincided with the announcement of Beta Patch v0.100.0, which has not yet been fully rolled out.

Mega Crit, the studio responsible for the game, shared insights regarding this significant post-launch update, which is primarily focused on adjusting game balance. The developers have communicated a distinct aim to make infinite strategies more difficult to execute. Furthermore, they have launched a Phobia Mode intended to tackle various player concerns associated with specific phobias, although the true effects of this mode remain to be determined.

It is essential to mention that the beta patch is currently opt-in only; players need to manually select it from the Game Versions & Betas section on Steam to access the updates. Although these beta revisions are designed to be voluntary and open to change, the present patch has ignited debate chiefly because of substantial card nerfs that many players are struggling to accommodate.

Among the most debated modifications is the change to Silent’s Prepared skill, which has been substituted with a new skill named Prepare. The previous skill permitted players to draw and discard two cards at no expense, offering strategic adaptability. In contrast, the new skill requires 1 energy to activate, draws two cards, and provides the player with 2 energy for the subsequent turn. While some individuals may contend that the original skill was too powerful, the alteration has nonetheless irritated a segment of the player community.

Another disputed change is the enhancement to the Doormaker boss fight at the conclusion of Act 3. The revised mechanics now enable Doormaker to permanently eliminate the tenth card drawn for the duration of the battle, in addition to receiving 1 strength when doing so. Players have voiced their worries regarding the absence of dependable counterplay to this mechanic, particularly if Doormaker discards a crucial card from a player’s deck. This modification has provoked mixed responses; although it is recognized that Doormaker required a power boost, the implementation may seem excessive to certain players.

Despite varying perspectives on the effects of these alterations, the significant spike in negative reviews aimed at *Slay the Spire 2* has raised alarms about the legitimacy of review bombing. Numerous negative reviewers convey their hope for Mega Crit to revert these changes based on their input. However, players are reminded that there are constructive avenues available for expressing concerns, including a dedicated feedback feature within the game itself.

In conclusion, while the balance modifications introduced in Beta Patch v0.100.0 strive to improve gameplay by addressing perceived overpowered components, they have also triggered substantial backlash from segments of the *Slay the Spire 2* player base. As players adapt to these alterations, the ongoing exchange between developers and the community will be vital in influencing the future trajectory of the game.

### Does *Crimson Desert* Have the Word-of-Mouth Momentum to Be a GOTY Contender?

The open-world action-adventure title *Crimson Desert*, created by Pearl Abyss, has debuted to a whirlwind of excitement, selling over 2 million copies within 24 hours. Despite a range of reviews, the game has sparked considerable conversation, raising inquiries about its prospects as a Game of the Year (GOTY) candidate. While some gamers value its vast world and visuals, others have expressed issues regarding its controls and storyline. As additional players dive into the game, its initial thrust may encounter obstacles, ultimately influencing its status in conversations about the top games of 2023.

### Activist Investor Pressures FromSoftware to Explore Microtransactions

Oasis Management Company has secured an 8.86 percent share in Kadokawa, the parent company of FromSoftware, recognized for its celebrated games like *Elden Ring*. This pressure arises amidst speculation regarding the developer being nudged toward adopting more microtransaction frameworks. The activist investor has a history of encouraging companies like Nintendo to explore monetization avenues, signifying a strong interest in modifying revenue structures within the gaming sector.

### Netflix’s *Assassin’s Creed* Series Reveals Fresh Details

Ubisoft has unveiled that Netflix’s forthcoming *Assassin’s Creed* series will take place in Rome during 64 AD, coinciding with Nero’s rule. The leading cast features Toby Wallace and Lola Petticrew, among others. With filming slated to commence next year, the premiere might not occur until 2028, in sync with an anticipated new chapter in the *Assassin’s Creed* universe.

### CD Projekt Red Progresses Development of New IP

CD Projekt Red has shared insights on their upcoming intellectual property, codenamed Hadar, as noted in their latest financial statement. The studio is concentrating on two major projects, with nearly 500 developers dedicated to *The Witcher 4* and around 150 on *Cyberpunk 2*, while also establishing plans for Hadar, exploring innovative creative avenues.

### *Diablo 4* Encounters Issues in Balancing Game Adjustments

*Diablo 4* director Zaven Haroutunian admits the challenges players face with the game’s ongoing updates and changes. Ahead of the *Lord of Hatred* expansion launch, he stressed the importance of the team evaluating the effects of modifications on player engagement, reinforcing the goal to prevent overwhelming the community with incessant alterations.

### Chuck Norris Passes Away

The iconic martial artist and actor Chuck Norris, celebrated for his performances in action films and series such as *Walker, Texas Ranger*, has passed away at the age of 86.

### Summary of Gaming News

In this week’s gaming summary, *Crimson Desert* achieves sales success despite mixed reviews, FromSoftware contends with pressure from an activist investor, and Netflix’s *Assassin’s Creed* series unveils its setting. At the same time, CD Projekt Red advances with new endeavors, and the team behind *Diablo 4* contemplates player responses to ongoing tweaks.

**Crimson Desert: A Purrfect Enhancement to Gaming**

*Crimson Desert* is generating conversations within the gaming community, yet one attribute stands out prominently: the capacity to pick up and interact with cats. As discussions about gameplay mechanics and controls persist, feline aficionados come together in their admiration for this delightful aspect that seems to infuse a warm ambiance into the immersive universe created by Pearl Abyss.

While games frequently spotlight dog interactions—highlighted by the popular phrase “Can you pet the dog?”—the introduction of cats in *Crimson Desert* delivers a much-needed acknowledgment of our feline companions. Keen observers will notice that in addition to petting the numerous dogs scattered around the game, players can also engage affectionately with the game’s charming cats.

The main character, Kliff, serves as an unexpected conduit for this love for felines. In spite of his rugged demeanor and Scottish accent, Kliff reveals a tender side through his interactions with cats. One significant quest early on involves assisting a girl in saving her cat, Jiji, from a rooftop. This establishes the groundwork for the delightful gameplay feature that permits players to carry cats throughout their journey, illustrating their portability and adding a whimsical dimension to the game.

Kliff’s ability to carry cats allows them to accompany him during quests and exploration. Although he must sometimes set them down—for activities like selling goods or engaging in arm-wrestling—the cats reunite with Kliff, meowing for attention and prompting players to pick them up again. This mechanic not only enriches the playful environment but also aligns with players’ wishes to bond with in-game animals.

Player reactions emphasize the happiness this feature generates. A Steam review recounts an encounter with a village cat, with the reviewer pleasantly surprised by the ability to carry it while completing game tasks. Another player reminisces about finding a crying cat and delighting in their capacity to soothe it, capturing the heartwarming exchanges that *Crimson Desert* promotes. Such stories illustrate how the simple act of caring for a virtual pet can elevate gameplay and bring smiles to players’ faces.

As the gaming world increasingly embraces diverse forms of interaction with pets, *Crimson Desert* stands out as a frontrunner in this realm, potentially motivating future games to incorporate similar features. The buzz around social media platforms like “Can You Carry The Cat?” reflects the broader cultural significance of this charming mechanic, uniting gamers and cat lovers alike in shared content and community involvement.

In summary, while *Crimson Desert* may elicit differing opinions on gameplay, its undeniable appeal originates from the capacity to engage with and carry cats, a feature that resonates with countless players. This charming inclusion not only enhances the gaming experience but also nurtures a sense of connection and joy, ensuring that both cat and game enthusiasts can find commonality in a virtual environment.