Portal
News, coverage and analysis tracking Portal across the outlets.
Latest coverage
Backrooms director & Portal superfan Kane Parsons spotted visiting Valve for the second time this year
Backrooms director Kane Parsons was spotted visiting Valve's headquarters for the second time this year, fueling speculation about a potential collaboration, possibly involving the Portal franchise. Parsons has previously expressed his dream of making a Portal movie and has cited the game as a major influence on his work.
Backrooms Director Kane Parsons Visits Valve Offices as Portal Movie Rumors Rise
Kane Parsons, director of the Backrooms series, has fueled rumors of a potential Portal movie by posting photos from his visit to Valve's offices. The visit has led to speculation about a film adaptation of the popular video game franchise.
The internet's new obsession: Gabe Newell explaining why Valve defied big tech by staying a private company and…
Valve co-founder Gabe Newell's past comments on why the company remains privately held have resurfaced, resonating with a modern audience disillusioned by tech layoffs and 'enshittification.' Newell argued that private ownership allows Valve to prioritize employees and create value by hiring expensive talent, contrasting with the cost-cutting measures often seen at public companies like Microsoft and Meta.
2026 is the best year ever for video games and GTA 6 isn’t even out yet - Reader's Feature
A reader argues that 2026 will be the best year for video games, despite industry challenges, citing a packed release schedule including titles like Grand Theft Auto 6 and Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee Remastered. The author highlights numerous anticipated games across various genres and platforms, suggesting a peak in gaming quality.
Valve experienced a massive 12TB leak
Valve has experienced a massive 12TB data leak, dubbed the 'teraleak', containing files from Steam titles between 2003 and 2013. The leak includes content for games like Team Fortress 2, Dota 2, Left 4 Dead, and early builds of Portal 2, as well as cancelled projects like F-STOP and an unused weapon from Half-Life 2: Episode 3. The data was reportedly accessed from a publicly accessible endpoint rather than through a hack, with Valve yet to issue an official statement.
Diskutera – Vad vill du se Valve göra härnäst?
This article discusses what fans would like to see Valve focus on next, given the company's 30-year history and its known tendency to leave popular game series dormant. Options range from sequels to existing franchises like Half-Life 3, Portal, Left 4 Dead 3, and Team Fortress 3, to new ventures such as next-generation hardware or further development of Steam and VR.
Jubileumsquiz: Vad kan du om Valve?
Valve is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a poll asking fans to vote for their favorite game from the studio's history. The poll includes major titles like Half-Life, Counter-Strike, Portal, and Dota 2, among others.
Snabbkollen: Vilket är bästa Valve-spelet?
Valve is celebrating its 30th anniversary, prompting a discussion about which of its games is the most beloved. The article presents poll results showing Half-Life 2 as the current favorite, followed by Counter-Strike and Half-Life.
Valve fyller 30 år – företaget som förändrade PC-spelandet
Valve, founded 30 years ago by Gabe Newell and Mike Harrington, has significantly impacted PC gaming through titles like Half-Life and its sequels, and the revolutionary digital distribution platform Steam. The company has also ventured into hardware with the Steam Deck and VR, continuing to innovate in how and where PC games are played.
Valve turns 30 today, and it's stronger than ever
Valve celebrates its 30th anniversary, having significantly shaped PC gaming through titles like Half-Life and the digital storefront Steam. The company has also expanded into hardware with devices like the Steam Deck and Steam Machine, continuing its influence on the industry.
47 video game things that spark joy
This article compiles a list of small, often overlooked moments in video games that bring players joy, ranging from humorous bugs and satisfying combat mechanics to clever design choices and nostalgic elements. Contributors share personal anecdotes about specific instances that enhance their gaming experience, highlighting the unique pleasures the medium can offer.
Saber's AI Rideshare Stimulator controversy almost closes on high note with CEO apology, then he calls Portal scribe who mocked him an 'unsuccessful writer'
Saber Interactive CEO Matthew Karch apologized to writer Stella Sacco for his public comments regarding her employment on Rideshare Stimulator, which had been partially developed using AI. However, Karch later criticized Portal writer Chet Faliszek in a LinkedIn post for a video essay that mocked him, reigniting controversy. Karch maintained his stance on using generative AI in game development despite the public relations fallout.
Deadlock isn't even 'out' yet, but Valve's new game is a true monster in the making
Despite not being officially released, Valve's new game Deadlock is already attracting significant player numbers on Steam, with daily highs of 75,000 players. This hero shooter MOBA hybrid, set in an alternate-history New York, blends elements of games like Overwatch and Dota 2 with a unique aesthetic and third-person shooter mechanics. The game is currently in early development with limited access, but its engaging gameplay, diverse hero roster, and approachable design suggest it's poised for major success upon its full launch.
Portal Confirms Short-Lived X Account Takeover That Pushed a Wallet Phishing Link
The cryptocurrency project Portal reported that its X (formerly Twitter) account was temporarily compromised overnight, during which an attacker posted a phishing link designed to target connected wallets. The team quickly regained control, locked down the account, and removed the malicious post. It remains unclear how the breach occurred, how long the link was visible, or if any users' wallets were drained.
Games Inbox: Will single-player video games go extinct?
This article discusses the current sales trends of single-player games, with readers expressing concern over their perceived decline in popularity compared to multiplayer titles. The piece also touches on the future of VR gaming, the potential for reboots of classic games like Elite, and the rising costs of GPUs and consoles.
Games Inbox: Will the Xbox reset work for Microsoft?
Readers express concern over recent price increases for Xbox consoles and PC GPUs, questioning Microsoft's strategy and the future of console gaming. Discussions also touch on Nintendo's Direct presentation approach and the ongoing debate about digital versus physical game sales, with a focus on potential EU intervention regarding Sony's digital store practices.
Valve has released the CAD design files for the Steam Machine's exterior, leaving us asking: how long before someone makes a GabeCube skin?
Valve has released the CAD design files for the Steam Machine's exterior under a Creative Commons license, allowing users to create custom modifications. While damage from modifications will void the warranty, Valve encourages creative customization, though commercial use is prohibited. This move has sparked discussions about potential custom skins, including a 'GabeCube' design referencing the Nintendo GameCube.
Sony May Have the Data on Its Side, but It’s Still Losing the Digital-Only Argument
Sony's decision to move to digital-only games by 2028 has faced significant backlash, with consumers concerned about game preservation and the loss of physical media. Despite this, the company has remained largely silent, possibly anticipating the reaction and relying on declining physical sales data. The article questions the long-term viability of an all-digital future, citing potential issues with online infrastructure and the importance of physical media for certain markets and consumer preferences.
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A fan-made remake of Valve's Portal is reportedly in limbo due to issues with the company. The project, which aimed to recreate the original game with enhanced visuals and features, has encountered obstacles that have halted its development.
Videogame villains who sing at you are the best
This article discusses the trend of villains singing in video games, highlighting examples from various titles like Middle-earth: Shadow of War, Hades II, and Baldur's Gate 3. It argues that unexpected musical numbers from antagonists can be more engaging than traditional monologues, making them memorable and impactful.
