The recent release of a new chronological gameplay mode for The Last of Us Part II represents a provocative shift in how we interact with complex storytelling in video games. Naughty Dog, known for their masterful, nonlinear narratives, now offers players the option to experience the game’s emotionally dense story in strict chronological order. While
Gaming
EVE Online’s latest update to its Plex trading system exemplifies the ongoing evolution of digital economies that mirror, distort, and sometimes critique the complex mechanisms of real-world capitalism. For years, players have treated Plex—the in-game token redeemable for subscriptions—akin to a fluctuating asset in a speculative market, much like stocks or commodities. The shift from
The gaming landscape is often marked by moments of great hope followed by unforeseen setbacks. The abrupt cancellation of Hytale, a project that promised to revolutionize sandbox adventures with its rich fantasy setting and ambitious mechanics, sent ripples through the gaming community. Fans who eagerly anticipated its release felt a deep sense of loss, akin
In an era where entertainment becomes increasingly commodified and disposable, grassroots activism is emerging as a formidable force. The Stop Killing Games campaign exemplifies this shift, galvanizing over a million individuals to rally behind the cause of digital permanence. This movement, sparked by outrage over major gaming companies shutting down servers and rendering beloved titles
In the realm of early access city builders, patience is often a virtue met with mixed results. Manor Lords exemplifies this tension, especially given its prolonged silence between updates. While some gamers might find the absence of quick patches disheartening, a deeper analysis reveals that such an approach—despite seeming sluggish—is vital for the game’s evolution.
The term “indie game” is often misunderstood, misused, and deconstructed to fit the narratives of industry insiders and fans alike. Many believe that an indie game must be self-published, developed by a tiny team, or possess a certain aesthetic. However, this rigid definition oversimplifies the vibrant landscape of independent gaming. The core of an indie
In an industry where monumental corporations often dominate with their vast resources, the decision by Ubisoft to transfer the publishing duties of *Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era* to Hooded Horse is both intriguing and revealing. Traditionally, Ubisoft handles the publishing and marketing of its beloved franchises, leveraging its extensive infrastructure to maintain a
The integration of generative AI technologies into creative industries has been a double-edged sword: offering unparalleled efficiencies while raising ethical and transparency questions. The recent disclosure by 11 Bit Studios regarding their use of AI in their game *The Alters* highlights how AI adoption in game development is still a delicate balancing act. The developers’
It’s easy to write off crowdfunded games that miss their targets as destined failures, yet Summerfall Studios’ latest project Malys challenges this notion in a refreshing way. The studio, co-founded by Dragon Age veteran David Gaider, first sought Kickstarter funding back in April for Malys—a roguelike deckbuilder featuring a “former priest turned demon-hunter.” Despite a
The allure of creating a video game based on a beloved franchise is a double-edged sword. On one hand, developers stand on the shoulders of giants—established narratives and world-building can create an engaging backdrop for players. On the other, there is the inherent risk of being overshadowed by the source material, a pitfall that many