Game Design
Ongoing coverage on Game Design.
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Burst Noir lets you choreograph your own spectacular fireworks displays just in time for holiday season
Burst Noir, a new fireworks display simulator, has been released on PC via Steam. Unlike rhythm games, Burst Noir functions as a fireworks show editor, allowing players to choreograph precise launch times, colors, and effects. The game includes 24 missions and 20 original music tracks, with support for streamers and video creators.
Pragmatic Play gives Zeus a makeover in Gates of Olympus POP
Pragmatic Play has launched Gates of Olympus POP, a reworked version of its popular slot game designed for a portrait-style mobile experience. This new title features a 3x5 grid, tumbling reels, and multiplier symbols, along with a miniature Zeus and a new POP symbol mechanic that can award instant prizes up to 25,000x. This marks the beginning of a new sub-brand for Pragmatic Play, which plans to reimagine existing franchises in this format.
Massively Overthinking: Is it wise for MMORPGs to court older gamers?
This article discusses the strategy of targeting older gamers, specifically those aged 50 and older, for MMORPGs. While some see it as a smart move due to disposable income and attention span, others question its long-term sustainability and the potential neglect of younger players.
PlayStation 5 Getting Long-Awaited Open-World RPG Sequel
Tripwire Interactive has announced Maneater 2, a sequel to its 2020 open-world RPG, scheduled for release in 2027 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. The game will feature a new setting at Neptune's Kingdom, an ultra-luxury seaside theme park, where players control a bull shark exploring and causing havoc.
Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA6) – We NEED To Talk About Carjacking
This article discusses how carjacking mechanics will significantly alter the gameplay experience in Grand Theft Auto 6. The upcoming title for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X is set to shake up the established formula with new approaches to vehicle theft.
Final Fantasy 7 Revelation's new gameplay showcase confirms cutscenes can be fast-forwarded, and JRPG fans are…
A recent PlayStation State of Play showcase for Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth revealed that cutscenes can be fast-forwarded, sparking controversy among some JRPG fans. While the feature is optional and present in previous titles, its prominent display in the trailer has led to criticism, though the article argues games are not dead because of it.
While us lot in the West might like Dragon's Dogma 2's friction, Japan doesn't quite agree, and its producers say balancing that has been a real challenge
Dragon's Dogma 2 producers Yoshiaki Hirabayashi and Naoto Oyama discuss the challenge of balancing player feedback between Japan and the West, particularly regarding the game's 'friction'. While Western players often appreciate inconveniences that create emergent narratives and a sense of accomplishment, Japanese players tend to prefer a smoother journey. The developers aim to create a game that satisfies audiences globally, clarifying that intentional friction is not the core identity but rather a strong sense of accomplishment.
The bizarre spirit of classic Elder Scrolls games is alive and well in little lo-fi RPG A Short Quest
A Short Quest is a lo-fi first-person RPG from developer Silent Moon that aims to capture the quirky spirit of classic Elder Scrolls titles like Morrowind and Oblivion. The game features a unique approach to quests, combat, and item usage, encouraging player experimentation without quest logs or maps. It is slated for release next year and is seen as a potential spiritual successor to the series.
The Blood of Dawnwalker Is Now Available, Bringing Its Dark Fantasy Vampire RPG to Life | Invision Game
The Blood of Dawnwalker, a dark fantasy open-world action RPG from Rebel Wolves and Bandai Namco Entertainment, has been released on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. The game features a protagonist who is human by day and a vampire by night, with choices significantly impacting the narrative and world.
Dungeons And Dragons Icons Could Take The TTRPG To A Modern-Day Setting
Joe Manganiello, chief creative officer for the D&D Icons initiative, has teased that the program could explore modern-day settings beyond traditional fantasy. He suggested potential for games focusing on genetics and military themes, or even futuristic worlds inspired by titles like Halo or Horizon: Zero Dawn, aiming to broaden the Dungeons & Dragons experience.
Hidetaka Miyazaki says he has no idea why people think "I have a bit of a thing for feet," apparently forgetting all the barefoot women in FromSoftware games
In a new interview, FromSoftware president Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed fan theories about his supposed fascination with feet, stating he is unsure of the rumor's origin. He also discussed recurring hand motifs in games like The Duskbloods and Elden Ring, and the symbolic meaning behind character design choices such as bare feet.
Persona 4 Revival plays fantastically, but I'm still not convinced it's an essential remake of Golden
Persona 4 Revival offers a visually impressive remake of the JRPG classic, featuring updated character models, modernized combat controls, and a re-recorded soundtrack. While the hands-on demo showcases smart updates and preserves key elements, the article questions the necessity of a $70 remake when Persona 4 Golden is readily available and questions the value proposition.
I installed a mod that adds building interiors to GTA 5, at the low cost of deleting most of the map's exterior
A mod for Grand Theft Auto 5, called Open World Interiors, adds inhabitable interior spaces to businesses but at the cost of deleting large portions of the game's exterior map. While some interiors function, attempting to enter a gym causes the player to fall through the world.
With wall-running and surprisingly weighty combat, Guild Wars 3 is aiming high: "If we hadn't been making MMOs for 26 years I don't think we could have built this"
Guild Wars 3 is aiming for a more visceral, action-RPG-like combat experience with a new momentum system that allows for wall-running and impactful attacks. Developer ArenaNet is focusing on making the MMO accessible for both new and returning players, with a launch planned for PlayStation 5 and PC.
Borderlands 4’s Loveless the Hacker is a contagion-spreading monster
Gearbox Software has revealed Loveless the Hacker, a new Vault Hunter for Borderlands 4, set to release on September 10, 2026. Loveless is an ex-corporate infiltration specialist who merged with a digital mind virus, granting her abilities like summoning a digital wyrm and spreading poison through a contagion effect. The character is a subtle nod to Ada Lovelace, the first computer programmer.
Vague Patch Notes: In which I do not memorialize Elyon
This opinion piece reflects on the nature of player connection to games, using Elyon and Astellia Online as examples of games that failed to maintain player interest or community. The author contrasts these with Final Fantasy XIV and Warframe, highlighting how emotional impact and shared experiences, even in flawed games, can be significant.
Persona 4 Revival is the best looking Persona to date, and after 1 hour playing, I'm already desperate to return to…
An early hands-on preview of Persona 4 Revival suggests it will be the definitive version of the beloved JRPG. The remake boasts significantly improved visuals, enhanced combat mechanics inspired by Persona 5, and quality-of-life updates that streamline gameplay. Despite some changes to the soundtrack and voice cast, the preview indicates a faithful yet modernized experience.
Hidden Gems of Game Design Vol 51
This article highlights three overlooked games: Phantom 2040, a choose-your-own-adventure Metroidvania with ambitious gameplay for its time; Soukyuu Gurentai, a fast-paced Sega Saturn shooter with a unique lock-on mechanic; and Sky Destroyer, a challenging NES rail shooter with a novel 3D perspective. The pieces celebrate these titles as hidden gems deserving of recognition.
Cygames announces Where the Seeds Fall for Nintendo Switch 2
Cygames has announced Where the Seeds Fall, a new action-adventure game from its CygamesEdge brand, for the Nintendo Switch 2. The game is set for a November 5, 2026 release and features a narrative-driven experience about a soldier escorting a Fell Child to the surface world.
Soulslikes demoner kräver en ängels tålamod
This article discusses the demanding nature of Soulslike games, drawing parallels between their challenges and martial arts competitions. It argues that the difficulty in games like Dark Souls and Elden Ring is not unfair but a tool for player growth, requiring patience and strategic adaptation rather than relying on character builds. The piece suggests that the emphasis on patience and learning from failure in Soulslikes offers valuable life lessons.
