Gait Games

This much is certain: I am a raccoon, somewhere in Norwich, and I am trying to catch a train. The trains are regular but they move past at such speed I can barely see them. I attempt to board and am launched like a squashy varmint bullet, hurtling beyond the level boundary into oozy pink checkerboard oblivion. The drunken background music alternates between welcoming me to the Water Zone and telling me to get the fuck out. The Easter Island head on the platform grumbles at me, so I hurl it into the sea.

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Just shy of a month ago, Saber Interactive launched a complimentary update for its popular 2024 third-person shooter, *Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2*, and paired it with a $5 DLC that incorporated a significant amount of new voice performances for various characters in the game. While the game is commended for its sustained support two years post-launch, the spotlight on this update was largely eclipsed by the negative feedback regarding the paid voice pack, which overshadowed the debut of a new Techmarine class and a fresh co-op mission.

The Chapter Voice Pack 1 was promoted as a notable upgrade, boasting 450 new dialogue lines for players’ beloved characters. However, it was unexpectedly released as a standalone $5 DLC, instead of being included in the game’s season passes. Reports suggested that the DLC did not completely overhaul character dialogue, often resulting in characters reverting to their original voice lines during gameplay, creating a disjointed and humorous experience. Many players lamented that the content mainly comprised new grunting sounds, and there was speculation that the count of 450 lines was a cumulative total across all languages rather than per language.

As a result, the DLC garnered an “Overwhelmingly Negative” rating on Steam, with merely 16% of the 672 current user ratings being favorable. Players voiced their discontent, highlighting that the DLC appeared to be the first in a series and that only three out of seven classes received updated voice lines. In reaction to the outrage, Focus Entertainment recognized the input on social media, conceding that the DLC had fallen short of player expectations and reiterating their dedication to providing quality content, whether free or paid.

In response to the overwhelmingly adverse feedback, Focus declared that all buyers of the DLC would be issued a refund, and the voice pack would subsequently be made available at no cost. This announcement was conveyed on social media, where Focus expressed appreciation to players for their backing of the game and commitment to addressing the situation.

At the time of this announcement, the transition to a free model had not yet come into effect, and the pack was still available for purchase on Steam. Despite this obstacle, *Space Marine II* remains celebrated for its gameplay, and it is currently offered at a 67% discount during Steam’s Spring sale, further cementing its reputation as a cherished title among fans.

When bosses have assessed my work over the years it’s usually taken the form of nervously watching their cursor bounce around a Google Doc. They would delete overwrought lines here, add detail to unclear statements there, and sometimes strike our intros that weren’t getting to the point – thank goodness I learned my lesson there. It’s a nerve-wracking and humbling experience (especially when you’ve managed to misspell ‘RTS’).

Naturally, every job has its own assessments, but the level designers working on Age of Empires at Ensemble Studios faced a novel one: studio head Tony Goodman’s lunch break.

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**Buzzfeed’s Bold Shift to AI-Driven Gaming: Introducing *Conjure***

Digital media leader Buzzfeed is embarking on an exciting adventure, redirecting its attention from conventional journalism and well-liked quizzes to the gaming sector, particularly focusing on AI-created games. This transformation is highlighted by the release of its first title, *Conjure*, which recently launched and draws inspiration from ideas echoing Nintendo’s inventive spirit.

### The Establishment of Branch Office

To lead this new gaming venture, Buzzfeed has formed a subsidiary known as Branch Office, under the leadership of Bill Shouldis. This strategic decision arises in light of the company’s recent financial difficulties and significant losses reported from the previous year. With increasing debts, Buzzfeed is relying on its gaming initiatives, including *Conjure*, to generate a new income source.

### What is *Conjure*?

*Conjure* is crafted as a mobile app game that captivates players in a distinctive manner. It encourages participants to upload daily pictures of real-world objects, which the AI assesses for approval. After submission, the app weaves strange creepypasta tales around the user-provided content, merging reality with fantastical narratives. Although the idea is compelling, initial user reviews have not been overwhelmingly positive.

### Inspired by Nintendo

In its announcement, Buzzfeed mentioned that its strategy was significantly influenced by Nintendo’s “lateral thinking with withered technology.” This concept underscores the value of innovatively utilizing available resources instead of creating entirely novel technologies. Buzzfeed’s intention is evident: to evaluate existing capabilities and convert them into genuinely enjoyable experiences without directly vying against major technology firms.

### Reception and Future Prospects

The first impressions of *Conjure* have been tepid, especially after its demonstration at SXSW, where it garnered more confusion than praise. Media coverage pointed out a lack of clarity and engagement from the audience, indicating that the game’s concept may require improvement. Furthermore, Shouldis proposed the notion of an “AI spirit for a CEO,” which added to the audience’s puzzlement regarding the app’s objectives.

Despite the mixed feedback, Buzzfeed maintains that *Conjure* will adapt, integrating new functionalities as user input is collected. This iterative approach will likely harness advancements from AI technologies, including Claude Code, with CEO Alex Peretti claiming that “software is the new content.” This viewpoint mirrors a larger trend within the industry where AI integration into content production is increasingly commonplace.

### Conclusion

As Buzzfeed ventures into the gaming domain with *Conjure*, the company is navigating a challenging environment. Balancing creativity with user interaction will be vital for its success. Whether Buzzfeed can rejuvenate its faltering business model through AI-generated games and draw in a loyal gaming audience is yet to be determined, but its ambitious shift is set to reshape its future within the digital media landscape.

Creative Assembly’s Total War games offer up a wide spread of factions, from rampaging Gauls to furtive and disgusting Wood Elves, but they’re all a little beholden to the ancient game of rock-paper-scissors: spears beat cavalry, cavalry beat swords, swords beat spears.

I think Creative Assembly generally do an impressive job of softening that triangular countering logic by means of terrain considerations, flanking, morale and other supporting mechanics. Cavalry won’t necessarily beat swords if the cavalry are all tuckered out and spooked. And then you have wildcards, like heroes and war machines, who can mess with the logic more dramatically: Rock paper Mortis Engine! Still, I can’t deny that I often feel drained on firing up a DLC-fresh Total War army and realising that, yep, I’m roshamboing again.

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### The Influence of Player Decisions in Dragon Age: The Veilguard

**Introduction**
Dragon Age: The Veilguard offers a rich narrative journey, emphasizing player agency and the outcomes of choices taken throughout the gameplay. A key feature of The Veilguard is its focus on decisions that not only influence the plot but also encourage players to contemplate their choices in a significant manner.

**Choice and Consequence**
Throughout the game, players face intricate moral quandaries, including the choice of which city to rescue from a dragon’s assault. In addition to high-pressure scenarios, players partake in reflective choices that further shape their character’s persona. These instances enrich the player’s emotional engagement and prompt them to think about the reasons behind their choices.

A crucial decision in The Veilguard concerns Solas, the mysterious former ally who has become an antagonist. While players ultimately tie him to the Veil—a divide between the physical realm and the spirit realm—they can approach this challenge in various manners: through sheer force, clever strategies, or pursuing redemption via an optional mission. The outcome of this choice can lead to either parting as allies or adversaries, paving the way for different emotional resolutions based on the player’s selection.

**Missed Chances for Reflection**
During the game’s earlier stages, there was an intention to feature a debriefing sequence involving the Inquisitor and Morrigan, designed to encourage players to contemplate their motivations regarding Solas. This sequence was envisioned as a conversation that wouldn’t break the fourth wall, with NPCs recognizing the player’s choices and their consequences. The absence of this scene has created a void in the player’s capacity to process their decisions.

Trick Weekes, a writer at BioWare, voiced regret about the omission of this narrative aspect, highlighting the importance of giving players the chance to articulate their character’s actions. This exchange would have not only enhanced the story but also fortified the bond between the player and their character.

**Balancing Player Freedom and Character Persona**
Designing a choice-oriented RPG requires a thoughtful equilibrium between facilitating player expression and preserving a character’s integrity. Weekes pointed out that while some players may wish to immerse themselves into the story, many are more inclined to experience the narrative through the perspective of a fully developed character. Therefore, moments that prompt players to clarify their motivations can enhance the storytelling and deepen the immersive experience.

An illustration of achieving this balance can be found in a scene within Rook’s quarters, where players can contemplate their character’s history and choices made during character creation. This moment acts as a reminder of the decisions that shape Rook, providing further emotional resonance and context before pivotal choices.

**Contemplating Identity and Decisions**
The capacity to reflect on personal decisions allows players to connect more deeply with the narrative. Weekes indicated that incorporating a scene for players to consider their motivations enriches the overall experience, linking player choices with character evolution. This narrative reflection becomes crucial during pivotal moments, such as determining which city to protect, reinforcing the relationship between player decisions and character arc.

**Conclusion**
Dragon Age: The Veilguard illustrates the complexities of choice-driven storytelling, merging player agency with character foundation. Although the elimination of certain reflective moments, like the potential dialogue with Solas, denotes a lost narrative opportunity, the game still effectively encourages players to delve into their character’s identity through impactful decisions. Ultimately, the combination of external choices and internal introspection enhances a gameplay experience that resonates profoundly with players invested in the Dragon Age realm.

Earlier this week, the modders behind a Fallout: New Vegas expansion called Fallout Chicago released their first demo. With that milestone out of the way, they’re certainly not resting on their laurels. They’ve put out a roadmap indicating that they’re hoping to have all three acts of the mod’s main story ready to go for a full release in the latter half of 2027.

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# Game of the Year Watch 2026: The Top Releases Thus Far

As 2026 progresses, the gaming world has already unveiled a multitude of enthralling titles. From groundbreaking mechanics to touching stories, this year caters to every type of gamer. Here’s a glimpse at some of the notable games that have been making a splash in the gaming community in the early months.

## Pokémon Pokopia
*Pokémon Pokopia* delivers a warm yet captivating experience, especially for those who don’t usually partake in life simulation games. The core of the game is a poignant mystery that drives players to venture beyond the standard open-ended life sim format. With 300 creatures to accumulate in its Pokédex, even non-Pokémon enthusiasts can revel in cultivating and caring for their town. Prioritizing joy over intricacy, *Pokopia* stands out as one of the most rewarding entries in the Pokémon franchise.

## Marathon
Bungie’s *Marathon* has rapidly attracted attention for its engrossing gameplay that keeps players up late. This sci-fi extraction shooter merges exhilarating triumphs with equally maddening losses, illustrating a relationship of love and frustration that gamers can’t resist. With stunning visuals and gratifying gear-collecting moments, each session highlights why *Marathon* is revered.

## Nioh 3
In *Nioh 3*, Team Ninja reinvigorates its successful formula by incorporating vast maps and enhanced exploration. The game adeptly blends Soulslike mechanics with the excitement of Ninja Gaiden’s combat. An improved RPG system augments the gameplay without compromising its combat quality, demonstrating that a captivating experience doesn’t hinge on a solid narrative.

## Perfect Tides: Station to Station
A heartfelt point-and-click adventure, *Perfect Tides: Station to Station* draws players into the world of Mara Whitefish in post-9/11 New York City. The game encapsulates the bittersweet nature of life, merging humor and sorrow effortlessly. It’s a highly relatable title that offers reflections on humanity through Mara’s distinct journey, establishing it as an exceptional storytelling masterpiece.

## TR-49
*TR-49*, an intellectually stimulating experience from Inkle, immerses players in magical realism and meta-narrative. Set in an apocalyptic alternate history, players navigate a community facing challenges with creativity and artificial intelligence. This game’s intricate themes and distinctive character interactions create an engaging experience that distinguishes itself in contemporary gaming.

## Demon Tides
For those craving nostalgia, *Demon Tides* presents a retro PS2-era platforming adventure. This tribute to the genre successfully captures the spirit of early 2000s games while maintaining its modern flair. Its smooth gameplay and attractive visuals exemplify the platformer’s potential revival.

## Resident Evil Requiem
The newest installment in the *Resident Evil* series, *Resident Evil Requiem*, skillfully fuses horror with compelling character interactions. Players navigate through a variety of emotional experiences while facing tense situations. This title revisits beloved gameplay features while honoring the franchise’s legacy, promising an exhilarating journey that resonates with long-time fans.

## Cairn
*Cairn* distinguishes itself with its immersive climbing-sim mechanics, featuring a story rich in philosophical undertones and emotional resonance. As players confront challenges, they experience the anxiety and triumph of overcoming obstacles. Its unique combination of survival aspects enhances the engaging climbing adventure, marking it as a noteworthy inclusion.

## Big Hops
The platformer genre receives an invigorating update with *Big Hops*, highlighting outstanding movement mechanics and vibrant graphics. This captivating 3D platformer reminds gamers of the allure of jumping escapades and pushes boundaries with inventive power-ups.

## Scott Pilgrim EX
*Scott Pilgrim EX* encapsulates the spirit of retro gaming with its lively visuals and engaging gameplay. Taking cues from classic titles while infusing modern touches, the game evokes nostalgia while remaining fresh. It’s a delightful homage that resonates with fans of the original comic and the current generation alike.

## Slay the Spire 2
The follow-up to the renowned *Slay the Spire*, this game builds upon its predecessor’s solid foundation while introducing enhanced graphics and novel gameplay mechanics. Retaining the original’s charm, it adds more depth and variety, inviting players to embark on another exhilarating roguelike journey.

## Mewgenics
In *Mewgenics*, Edmund McMillen elevates roguelite concepts, transforming what seems like a simple RPG into an unpredictable quest. With humorous elements and unique gameplay focused on cat breeding and combat, it reinvigorates the genre with creative innovation.

## Esoteric Ebb
*Esoteric Ebb*, a passion project from solo developer Christoffer Bodegård, channels the essence of *Disco Elysium* while introducing a distinctive brand of humor and an engaging storyline. This CRPG captures the nuances of character-driven narratives while delivering

Double Fine, the studio famous for titles like Psychonauts, has revealed the launch date for its forthcoming game, Kiln. Set to debut on 23rd April, Kiln will be released on Xbox Series X/S, Xbox on PC, Xbox Cloud, PlayStation 5, and Steam. It will also be available from the first day through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

Kiln, which was first unveiled in January, departs from Double Fine’s standard fare, exploring the multiplayer online party brawler genre with a distinctive pottery concept. The game enables players to craft their ceramic avatars with a pottery wheel, which can subsequently be used in battles within online arenas. The form and design of these pots directly influence gameplay characteristics and styles, presenting various sizes and combinations, each offering unique abilities and attacks.

Prior to its launch, an open beta will take place on Steam from 9th to 11th April, giving players a chance to experience the game in advance. Interested individuals can register on Double Fine’s website. To catch a glimpse of what Kiln presents, a trailer can be watched on YouTube.

What are your expectations from gaming mouse software? If you resemble me in any way, your immediate response to that inquiry might be ‘not much.’ However, through the years, I’ve come to realize that when we ask for ‘not much,’ it appears to entail quite a bit to request, judging by the overly bloated and complex software that is frequently presented to us.

We’re often provided with exactly the types of features that users do not desire from their peripheral software. A nice color scheme and elaborate animations are acceptable, of course, but ultimately, what truly matters for most gamers is the speed and ease with which they can access, adjust their DPI or polling rate, perhaps check for a firmware update, and swiftly exit.

At no stage in that process is there a need to oversee an entire ecosystem of devices, and if that is your desire, why should that obligation be imposed on those who only require a simple application? A dedicated app for such functionalities could suffice. Instead, we frequently find ourselves burdened with lighting hub management, community components, and even advertisements.

Even if, like me, you enjoy configuring some of the less frequently utilized mouse features such as sensor rotation and lift-off distance (LOD), you’re not delving into your peripheral software for prolonged periods. It remains a utility, meant for quick and infrequent access. It ought to stay out of your way.

Nevertheless, since I’ve begun exploring options beyond the largest manufacturers for my gaming mice, I have discovered how mouse software can and should be implemented. In fact, I’ve found that one can indeed have it all. You can enjoy a comprehensive list of pivotal features within a sleek, responsive, and visually appealing GUI that importantly, keeps itself unobtrusive.

The finest example I’ve encountered of this is Pulsar’s web software. This encompasses all the functionality of the desktop application—yes, there exists one of those, too—adds a little extra, and packages it in a vibrant and highly responsive web app. You are presented with all the vital information, including DPI, battery life, and so forth, and the tabs at the top are distinctly labeled, responsive, and not excessive.

There is a plethora of genuinely useful mouse features, and it never feels cluttered or overwhelming, as function is prioritized. The company has previously stated that it’s “listening to the community,” alongside a video showcasing the new sensor rotation functionality, which users had evidently been requesting. To many, such features might appear unnecessary, but I’ve learned that these types of settings can be incredibly beneficial.

Getting rotation calibration accurate, for instance, can enable your mouse movement to align much better with your intentions when swiping, alleviating the need to subconsciously adjust your aim to compensate for a slight angle in how you hold your mouse.

It turns out, you can achieve that while still having a product that looks and feels fantastic to use, as the Pulsar web software stands out as the best among those I’ve tried.

Pulsar isn’t as prominent as brands like Razer, Logitech, Corsair, etc., but it is hardly unknown. Nonetheless, I’ve found that even smaller brands can produce software that incorporates an abundance of features while remaining unobtrusive.

The software distributed by the Chinese mouse ‘clone’ brand Mchose is available in both web and desktop versions, and although it appears slightly cluttered, it remains easy to locate the settings you need, without being obscured behind convoluted multi-layered tab sections and excessive bloat.

I’ve also observed that both Pulsar’s and Mchose’s software consumes significantly less RAM compared to some of the more bloated applications, as illustrated by the chart below based on my personal testing. This is advantageous considering that mouse software should, as I mentioned earlier, merely act as a utility. It shouldn’t add any concern regarding the potential clogging of your precious RAM resources.

The significance of the software from these manufacturers being available in both local and browser-based versions should not be understated. There are valid reasons for opting for either. Web apps are beneficial as they eliminate the need for yet another application installed on your PC, potentially slowing it down, and they can leverage the WebUSB API without necessarily being entirely custom-built. Conversely, having local applications is advantageous in case your internet connection falters or the website becomes inaccessible.

Regardless, what you ideally seek is something that you don’t have to keep running, allowing you to save your settings to your mouse’s onboard memory. This, of course, also hinges on your mouse’s capability to store various settings, but most mice are capable of that nowadays.

One way to attain the best of both realms regarding web and local software is to have the web app be installable in your browser for offline access. Corsair allows you to do this with its Web Hub software. Admittedly, this does indeed install a local application, but all