Gait Games

In my time as a videogame partaker, I have crawled through approximately three billion airvents. I may well have crawled through more vents than you’ve had hot dinners. As such, any videogame that can get me excited about loosening a barred hatch and hauling my heavy ass into a square tunnel is doing something right.

The Wild Gentlemen’s new sci-fi immersive sim RetroSpace gives pretty fair vent. It hides them all over. You’ll walk along a dilapidated, meandering corridor and your eye will be caught by a certain combination of shadows, flirtatiously screened by pipes. ‘Can I fit behind there?’ You ask yourself, and lo, you have revealed a shortcut to the head engineer’s office. Elsewhere, switches peek from behind stacks of luggable crates, and bent guard-rails draw your eye to a footwide ledge leading around the next pillar.

In general, RetroSpace does a nice job of squirrelling secrets into even the smallest chambers, and if the secret is very often a “rocket doughnut” or other inventory-clogging flotsam, sensing the prize and snuffling after it is a thrill. I hope the thrill will intensify as RetroSpace goes on, perhaps leaving a few of its obvious influences behind.

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**Graveyard Keeper 2: A Dark Expedition Through Resource Management and Narrative Blunders**

It’s quite likely that numerous gamers have played *Graveyard Keeper*, especially after its release for free on Steam in April. This endearing yet somewhat morbid resource management simulator draws strong influence from the cherished *Stardew Valley*, blending elements of resource harvesting and crafting with a wickedly humorous edge, all showcased in captivating pixel art. For those willing to devote roughly 50 hours, it guarantees an immersive experience, particularly for players who revel in this type of grind-heavy gameplay.

In the wake of the original’s success, developer Lazy Bear Games launched *Graveyard Keeper 2* on September 22. After dedicating around 20 hours to the sequel, it is clear that while the core gameplay remains predominantly similar, the new version provides a revitalized experience through various quality-of-life enhancements.

The improvements found in *Graveyard Keeper 2* alleviate the grind, especially in terms of inventory management, which is a welcome relief for users familiar with the chaotic aspects of resource gathering and crafting. On the visual front, the pixel art has seen a significant upgrade, looking crisper and more polished. Moreover, the addition of fully voiced dialogue brings a new dimension to character exchanges, though the results can be mixed.

While *Graveyard Keeper 2* builds upon the groundwork set by its predecessor, it also weaves in a narrative that feels more pronounced. The story in the first game, although present, mainly served as a backdrop. In contrast, *Graveyard Keeper 2* further prioritizes the plot, which at times can become overwhelming. Frequent interruptions for quests and dialogues can disrupt gameplay flow, hindering the fun derived from the essential management mechanics.

A major drawback noted in the sequel is its narrative tempo. The sync between management simulation features and storytelling often feels mismatched. Players who thrive on the classic resource management cycle may grow impatient, as dialogue-heavy segments frequently divert them from their preferred activities, like crafting, farming, or exploring. This shift complicates engagement when NPCs endlessly chatter with dialogue that can seem superfluous and dull.

The abundance of conversations, rather than enhancing the gameplay experience, turns into a hindrance. Players might find themselves trapped in drawn-out cutscenes that stall their progress, fostering a desire to rush through the dialogue instead of taking in any substantial storyline.

A crucial comparison can be made to *Stardew Valley*, which graciously allows players to engage with character interactions at their own convenience. In stark contrast, *Graveyard Keeper 2* demands players push through incessant dialogue, even when they would rather concentrate on resource collection or strategizing their farming ventures.

The annoyance stemming from this scenario is only heightened by the fact that advancing in resource management typically relies on interacting with NPCs and completing their tasks. Consequently, players may feel ensnared in a loop of obligatory dialogue and quest fulfillments, ultimately detracting from the enjoyment that *Graveyard Keeper 2* intends to provide.

While *Graveyard Keeper 2* indisputably offers quality-of-life enhancements and visual improvements, it falters in its narrative execution. For many, the extra dialogue fails to offer a compelling incentive to spend time and money on this sequel, especially considering *Graveyard Keeper*—originally provided for free—continues to supply a satisfying experience with less frustration. The onus is on the developers to strike a balance that ensures the rich narrative enhances rather than detracts from the gameplay. As it stands, players may find themselves reevaluating the worth of *Graveyard Keeper 2*, particularly if they favor the streamlined experience of its predecessor.

Trippy hack ‘n’ slash sequel (and, for the benefit of anyone planning for this year’s Advent Calendar guessing game in the RPS Discord, my current second-favouritest game of 2026) Control Resonant has a big old update out today. As declassified by Remedy, it not only adds the pledged New Game++ mode for plus-deficient game replayers, but makes absolutely bloody loads of smaller bug fixes and quality of life tweaks.

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### Arc Raiders Enhances Anti-Cheat Protocols

Developer Embark has intensified its dedication to combating cheating within the game *Arc Raiders*, revealing a rigorous strategy that encompasses immediate permanent bans for violators. As outlined in a recent blog entry by Aleks Grøndal, this policy change arises from community dissatisfaction regarding cheating practices, particularly those that hinder the gaming experience.

#### No Second Chances

In the past, *Arc Raiders* maintained a relatively lenient policy toward first-time offenders, issuing warnings prior to imposing bans. Nevertheless, this method has been reassessed following player input. Grøndal recognized the necessity for a more stringent reaction, stating, “Permanent bans are now standard for all known cheat programs … No warnings, no second chances.” This decisive policy indicates that any player detected using cheats will encounter immediate and irreversible bans, including hardware bans to thwart the establishment of new accounts.

#### Advanced Detection Systems

To facilitate this initiative, Embark is channeling resources into a set of advanced detection systems. The studio is utilizing a mix of proprietary models and external software, including Elytra Anti-Cheat. These systems employ machine learning and behavioral analysis to pinpoint cheating activities, although Grøndal noted that real-time bans aren’t feasible due to the likelihood of misidentifying legitimate players.

#### Addressing Community Concerns

The community’s worries frequently rise when notable streamers are seen cheating without swift repercussions. Grøndal reassures players that the team actively oversees streams and video uploads for such violations. Furthermore, recent modifications to the detection threshold have enabled developers to respond more rapidly to offenders.

#### Tackling Queue Teaming

Another aspect of Embark’s initiative focuses on “queue teaming,” where players exploit matchmaking to gather in solo lobbies, undermining fair competition. The developer has already started segregating known teaming groups, resulting in a reported 85% decrease in this conduct within a brief time frame. This effort has led to a marked reduction in reports of disrupted raids, from 1 in 50 to 1 in 300, all while sustaining balanced queue times.

#### Upcoming Content Update

The escalated anti-cheat measures coincide with the forthcoming update named “Frozen Trail,” set for October 8. This update includes new content, featuring a snowy map, the Frigate ship for infiltration, and new adversaries such as the Bully, Skulker, and Hydra turret. Players can also anticipate new weaponry and a grappling hook that improves gameplay mechanics.

Through these advancements, Embark illustrates a strong commitment to nurturing a fair and enjoyable gaming space in *Arc Raiders*. As they persist in addressing the issues raised by cheating, the studio strives to uphold a community-focused approach while effectively responding to player feedback.

They did the monster mash.

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AI is everywhere, exhausting to keep up with, and increasingly perceived as harmful to games. But that’s mostly generative AI; the more limited, less media-scraping and energy-hungry breeds of artificial intelligence can still play a harmless, maybe even useful role, especially on the hardware side. Even if it finds itself in some unexpected places, as is the case with HBADA’s X7 chair.

While AI-powered lumbar support sounds like the kind of gimmicky nonsense that’s become all too common in 2026, I’ve been using an X7 for a week, and it’s… surprisingly effective? To the point where it’s literally changed my spine for the better, helping to deal with my recurring back pain and posture issues. It’s been a very pleasant surprise.

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**Gears of War: E-Day – A Blend of Success and Struggle**

The eagerly awaited comeback of the *Gears of War* series with *Gears of War: E-Day* sparks enthusiasm among devoted fans following a seven-year break. This edition dazzles with remarkable graphics and thrilling gameplay, yet it grapples with problems in narrative and rhythm.

Set in the context of Emergence Day, 14 years before the original game’s events, *E-Day* immerses players in the turmoil as the Locust Horde rises from below the surface, causing chaos for humanity. This intricate world-building fuses gothic horror with baroque design, drawing players into a compelling story filled with suspense.

Early impressions of gameplay suggest that *E-Day* captures the essence of the franchise, especially through its cover-based combat mechanics. Navigating through elaborate environments—from crumbling cityscapes to expansive airfields—provides players with thrilling chances to partake in combat, utilizing new strategies like going prone for cover. However, this intense conflict is hindered by instances of annoyance due to lackluster enemy AI and noticeable performance shortcomings, particularly on the Xbox Series S.

Despite its vibrant visuals, the game stumbles in its storytelling. Characters like Marcus Fenix, Dominic Santiago, and newcomer Lucas Reyes lack the depth that might be desired; their interactions often seem shallow. The campaign’s open-world features, combined with optional tasks, can sometimes lead to an experience that feels repetitive, lacking significant narrative rewards.

As *E-Day* shifts between exciting set pieces and weak character development, players may experience a disconnection—a combat system that shines but a plot that fails to captivate. This initial evaluation of the roughly 14-hour campaign indicates a game balanced between strong combat mechanics and narrative flaws.

With the multiplayer aspect about to be released, it might add further depth, enhancing the overall experience of *Gears of War: E-Day*. For fans looking to reconnect with this cherished franchise, the game stands as a strong reminder of thrilling combat but leaves gaps for enhancement in its plot and pacing. Ultimately, while the battles are exhilarating, the quest for a unified and impactful gaming journey persists.

Where to find Tengai, the Sound Breathing Trainer.

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Capcom have done a brisk trade in Resident Evil remakes this past decade. They’ve gone back to formula with Resident Evil 2, Resident Evil 3, and Resident Evil 4, not just bumping up the resolution and revarnishing the cutscenes, but writing new variations on the old survival horror fables. There’s a Resident Evil: Code Veronica regurgitation due in 2027, and a Resident Evil 0 resurrection allegedly to follow in 2028.

The problems with this strategy are perhaps expressed by my previous sentence’s struggle to come up with extra synonyms for “remake”: sooner or later, Capcom are going to run out of original games they can credibly overhaul. Including the forthcoming or rumoured projects, they’ve only got Resident Evils 5 and 6 left now before they hit the “modern era” inaugurated by Resident Evil 7, the game that introduced the fancy RE Engine used by the remakes.

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### Concerns Regarding Job Security Among Developers of *Gears of War: E-Day*

In a troubling turn of events, developers at The Coalition, the studio responsible for the eagerly awaited *Gears of War: E-Day*, are voicing serious worries about their employment stability. This anxiety emerges as parent company Microsoft implements extensive layoffs throughout its gaming sectors, leaving numerous employees feeling precarious right as the game is about to launch.

#### Overview of The Coalition

The Coalition has largely avoided the job reductions that have affected Microsoft’s gaming teams this year, but recent developments have transformed the mood within the studio. The recent exit of the game’s narrative director, Juan Vaca, has compounded the rising tension among team members. Following his dismissal, there is a widespread belief among employees that further job cuts may be in store for them as well.

Discussions with staff indicate that, despite a sense of optimism regarding the studio’s ability to stay intact—due to their connection with a major franchise and the forthcoming game—recent layoffs have significantly shifted that viewpoint. Employees had hoped that the upcoming release of *E-Day* would protect them from job losses, but that optimism appears to be dwindling.

#### Effect on Morale

Reports from *Eurogamer* indicate that the atmosphere of unease is tangible. Many developers are articulating feelings of dissatisfaction, mentioning they anticipated layoffs would take place only after the game’s launch. The unexpected departures of colleagues as excitement builds for a celebratory opening has negatively impacted morale. As one unnamed source remarked, “Now we’re just waiting for the next round.”

#### Economic Consequences of Imminent Layoffs

In addition to the emotional strain, layoffs at The Coalition could lead to significant financial consequences for remaining staff. Developers were operating under the expectation of receiving a “Metacritic bonus,” a monetary incentive linked to the game’s critical reception on the review aggregation platform. However, a vital condition for qualification is that employees must still be on the payroll at the time bonuses are dispersed, anticipated for late October. Thus, those who are let go before this payment could forfeit this reward for their efforts.

#### Industry Patterns

The trend of hiring surges followed by layoffs is prevalent in the AAA gaming industry. As game projects escalate, studios commonly increase their workforce but subsequently reduce staff post-launch due to decreased employment needs. This cycle is intensified by factors such as the absence of unionization, dependence on temporary contracts, and the unpredictable nature of game development, where projects can demand massive investments but still lead to financial uncertainty for developers.

Despite The Coalition’s track record of achievements and previous independence from Microsoft’s direct oversight, the recent layoffs have overshadowed the studio’s forthcoming release. The dominant atmosphere of uncertainty seems to mirror a broader discontent across multiple gaming studios under Microsoft in the wake of a turbulent year.

#### Outlook for the Future

While it is still unclear whether the concerns expressed by The Coalition’s staff will come to pass, the current state of the industry poses obstacles for its developers. Many are hopeful that Microsoft will recognize their contributions and uphold the promised bonuses, regardless of the looming layoffs. However, the prevailing circumstances underline the troubling reality for many developers still navigating uncertain futures in a fiercely competitive and dynamic industry landscape.