Portal
News, coverage and analysis tracking Portal across the outlets.
Latest coverage
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.
A24 Is Reportedly Copyright-Striking Backrooms Content It Doesn’t Own
A24 Films LLC is reportedly issuing copyright strikes against creators of Backrooms-inspired content, including artwork and games, even when the work is not directly derived from the A24 film. This has led to issues for independent creators and game developers, with Backrooms director Kane Parsons stating he is investigating the matter. The company's actions have drawn criticism, especially in light of its recent AI research partnership with Google DeepMind.
Are these the 100 most influential games of all time?
Kitfox Games CEO Tanya Short discusses a list of the 100 most influential video games of all time, compiled by professional game designers. The list, assembled through the Polaris game design retreat, aims to serve as a tool for designers to improve their craft and create influential games.
Existing Unauthorized Steam Machine Companion Cubes Are Being Destroyed After Release Fiasco
Dbrand's unauthorized Steam Machine companion cube will not be sold, and pre-ordered units are being refunded. The manufacturer is requesting that existing samples, including one sent to The Verge, be returned for destruction. Dbrand admitted to making a mistake by selling the accessory without Valve's permission, which is a violation of intellectual property.
Dbrand skrotar Companion Cube-skalet till Steam Machine
Accessory manufacturer Dbrand has discontinued its Companion Cube case for the Steam Machine less than a week after its launch. The decision came after Valve's legal department stated that the design is protected intellectual property and Dbrand lacked the necessary license. Dbrand admitted to developing the product without seeking Valve's permission first, a move that led to the cancellation of sales and a refund for all customers.
Valve just killed the Steam Machine Companion Cube
Valve has halted production of Dbrand's "Companion Cube" case for the Steam Machine, which was designed to make the console resemble the Weighted Companion Cube from the Portal games. Dbrand was denied a retroactive license by Valve, forcing them to refund thousands of orders and cease development. The company acknowledged fault for proceeding without initial licensing approval.
Company that made a Steam Machine wrap based on Valve intellectual property without asking forced to take it down
Dbrand has been forced to cancel its 'Companion Cube' wrap for the Steam Machine after failing to obtain a license from Valve. The company admitted to building the product without permission and will issue full refunds to pre-order customers. This incident follows a similar controversy in 2021 where Dbrand was compelled to remove custom PlayStation 5 faceplates due to intellectual property concerns with Sony.
Companion Cube case for Steam Machine is canceled by Valve after Dbrand bafflingly forgot to get permission to make the…
Dbrand has canceled its Companion Cube case for the Steam Machine after Valve, the owner of the intellectual property, requested its removal. Dbrand admitted to not seeking permission before production, leading to the product's withdrawal and refunds for customers. This incident follows a previous cease-and-desist from Sony regarding Dbrand's 'Darkplates' for the PlayStation 5.
Steam Machine Companion Cube case cancelled because Dbrand didn't ask Valve for permission to make it: 'We’re going to regret that decision for a very long time'
Dbrand has cancelled its Companion Cube case for the Steam Machine after Valve's legal team informed them they did not have a license for the intellectual property. Despite significant investment and sales success, Dbrand was forced to remove all traces of the product due to the unauthorized use of Valve's intellectual property.
Valve dropped that Steam Machine Companion Cube case down the legal incinerator after its makers neglected to get their permission
Dbrand has ceased sales of its unofficial "Companion Cube" case for the Steam Machine after Valve, the owner of the intellectual property, issued a takedown notice. Dbrand admitted to not seeking permission from Valve before developing and selling the Portal-themed accessory, which had become their second-most popular product launch. Valve reportedly declined Dbrand's appeal to properly license the product.
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Web port wizards have successfully created browser-playable versions of Valve's classic games Half-Life 2 and Portal. These versions leverage the Source engine and are accessible directly through web browsers, bringing these iconic titles to a new platform.
Backrooms director Kane Parsons has visited Valve, and the chances of a Portal movie happening just shot up
Backrooms director Kane Parsons visited Valve headquarters, fueling speculation about a potential Portal movie. Parsons has previously cited the Portal series as a major inspiration for his work, including his directorial debut. The visit has intensified fan discussions and hopes for an official film adaptation.
The Steam Machine's Companion Cube case is big, expensive, and based on a 19-year-old joke, so I hate how well-made it is
Dbrand has released a Companion Cube-shaped case for the Steam Machine, which is based on a joke from the game Portal. While the reviewer finds the case to be well-made with premium materials and clever design touches, they ultimately dislike it due to its significant increase in size and high price point of $100-$130.
