Ecosystems
Ongoing coverage on Ecosystems.
Latest coverage
Adapt – Beta Sign Up | Alpha Beta Gamer
Adapt is a survival evolution game where players guide a species through a dynamic world, making genetic choices to adapt to environmental changes and compete for resources. Players can form bonds, raise young, and must evade predators using various sensory cues. A beta sign-up is currently available.
'If not PS6, then PS7' — Analyst says PlayStation ending physical discs was bound to happen as 'the console ecosystem is nearly entirely digital at this point'
Analyst Daniel Ahmad believes Sony's decision to end physical PlayStation disc production in 2028 was inevitable due to the significant shift towards digital sales, which now account for around 80% on PlayStation and over 90% on Xbox. This move aligns with Sony's strategy to create a high-margin, closed digital ecosystem, controlling all software sales and eliminating the used game market.
Valve says it isn't subsidizing the Steam Machine's $1050 price because of its 'religious' refusal…
Valve has explained its decision not to subsidize the Steam Machine's high $1049 price, citing a commitment to its belief in open ecosystems and free markets. The company argues that subsidizing hardware would contradict this philosophy, unlike traditional console manufacturers who often sell hardware at a loss to drive profits through software and services.
Xbox's Early Momentum from Asha Sharma is Fading Fast
Xbox's early positive momentum under Asha Sharma appears to be fading due to rumors of studio closures, including Ninja Theory, and the recent shuttering of Arkane Austin and Tango Gameworks. This trend is eroding player trust and potentially jeopardizing the success of future initiatives like Project Helix, which aims to unify Xbox's hardware, software, and services.
Find balance in abstract puzzle adventure What Surrounds Us, launching July 15th on Steam
Florent Martinais, a former developer at Don't Nod, has announced that his new indie puzzle exploration game, What Surrounds Us, will launch on PC via Steam on July 15th, 2026. The game focuses on exploring a delicate ecosystem and solving environmental puzzles to restore balance without dialogue or narration.
"Product visibility needs a more cohesive and structural approach" – How VaultN aims to unify the digital distribution ecosystem
VaultN, a digital distribution platform, aims to unify the gaming ecosystem by centralizing transactions for publishers, distributors, and retailers. Co-founder Julian Migura explains the platform's goal to streamline processes, improve product visibility, and enable better cooperation between various industry players, including a desire to integrate with Steam. VaultN currently partners with platforms like Epic Games Store and GOG, and takes a small percentage of publisher royalties.
PS6 rumors suggest the next console war will be fought on a completely new battlefield, and the Steam Machine might be…
Rumors suggest the PlayStation 6 will launch in 2027 with multiple hardware options, including a budget model and a handheld, potentially shifting Sony's strategy towards ecosystem dominance. This comes as Xbox is also focusing on a hybrid console/PC approach with Project Helix and portable options like the ROG Ally, while Valve's Steam Machine is positioned to compete directly in the console market by leveraging existing PC player bases.
