Game Design
Ongoing coverage on Game Design.
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Why Indie Tactical Games are Entering a New Golden Age in 2026 - Walkthrough, Tips, Review
The indie game scene is experiencing a resurgence in complex, high-stakes tactical titles, offering an alternative to simplified AAA strategy games. Developers are focusing on punishing but fair mechanics, 'Ironman' modes, and deep systems that reward player mastery. Games like Final Fantasy Tactics and Tactics Ogre: Reborn are highlighted as inspirations for this trend.
Pragmata has a Lunatic difficulty setting, but is it actually worth your time?
The game Pragmata features a 'Lunatic' difficulty setting, which is only unlocked after completing a full playthrough. While it increases enemy health and damage, it does not introduce new mechanics or encounters, making it a less inventive challenge. The primary reason to play on Lunatic is to unlock the 'Lunar Supremacy' achievement for 100% completion.
Wisdom of Nym: Final Fantasy XIV’s second 7.5 live letter, from Beastmaster to Shantotto
The author expresses disappointment with the second live letter for Final Fantasy XIV patch 7.5, finding it underwhelming due to its timing before the next expansion announcement and the lack of concrete details on the new Beastmaster job. While acknowledging personal bias, the article criticizes the reliance on familiar elements from Final Fantasy XI, such as the Shantotto fight and artifact gear, suggesting a missed opportunity to celebrate the broader MMORPG.
Slay the Spire 2 won't get an endless mode like Balatro because it limits "infinite strategies," but creator says "maybe a modder will think of a way to make it work"
Mega Crit co-creator Casey Yano stated that Slay the Spire 2 will likely not receive an "endless mode" similar to Balatro, as it limits "infinite strategies" and the deckbuilding becomes less exciting over longer runs. However, Yano suggested that a modder might create such a mode in the future.
Spiritborn Could Be Diablo IV’s Most Fascinating Class Addition Yet
Blizzard Entertainment is introducing the Spiritborn class in the upcoming Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred expansion. This new class draws power from the lore of Nahantu and offers a unique playstyle centered around four animal spirits: Jaguar, Eagle, Gorilla, and Centipede, allowing for deep customization and hybrid builds.
Bouncy girl jump rope game Scarlet Skips announced
Indie developer Yerk Games has announced Scarlet Skips, a new roguelite game for Windows PC via Steam. The game features a bouncy girl who jump ropes using a single button, with players leveling up to choose random power-ups and create unique builds. The developer highlighted the game's silly animations and dynamic movement system, built with Unreal Engine.
The shake up to Arc Raiders Expeditions may turn the extraction shooter into a week-long bloodbath, but it could pair well with the "significant changes" planned for its skill tree
Embark Studios is changing the Arc Raiders Expeditions event to reward players based on damage dealt rather than accumulated wealth, potentially making the week-long event more aggressive. This shift aims to encourage active gameplay and the use of valuable gear. The studio is also planning significant changes to the game's skill tree to better align with player behavior and offer more meaningful build choices.
Sunday Pokemon Red Sessions Show Why Classic Games Never Get Old
A Reddit post highlighting a user playing Pokemon Red on a Game Boy Color sparked discussion about the enduring appeal of classic games. The article argues that despite advancements in graphics and technology, the simple fun and design of games like Pokemon Red continue to resonate with both older and younger generations, proving that great game design is timeless.
Former The Last of Us developer teases yet-to-be-explored plot points which, if realised, will have major ramifications for the series
A former Naughty Dog developer, Gabriel Betancourt, revealed that series creator Neil Druckmann once considered exploring the idea of multiple characters being immune to the Cordyceps virus in The Last of Us. Betancourt felt this would dilute the impact of Joel's decision to save Ellie, though Druckmann has recently teased future installments for the series. Naughty Dog is also developing a new franchise, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet.
The first Vampire Survivors spin-off struggles to capture the same magic
Vampire Crawlers, a roguelike deckbuilder spin-off of Vampire Survivors, struggles to capture the magic of its predecessor due to repetitive gameplay and a flawed difficulty curve. While there are moments of fun, particularly later in the game with more complex card synergies, the early hours are often a grind. The game is available on PC, with reviewers testing it on the ASUS ROG Ally and Steam Deck.
BEFORE I GO Review | TheXboxHub
BEFORE I GO is a metroidvania platformer that blends precise controls with an allegorical journey about accepting death. While the gameplay and exploration are strong, the narrative and boss fights are considered lackluster. The game offers a solid challenge and satisfying progression, making it a worthwhile experience for players prioritizing gameplay.
"A Big Miscalculation On My Part" – Hideki Kamiya On Leaving Bayonetta 3 Up To Interpretation
Hideki Kamiya, creator of the Bayonetta series, discusses his views on the narrative interpretation of Bayonetta 3, particularly its ending and multiverse elements. He acknowledges that his explanations for the multiverse were not sufficiently clear in earlier games and that the ending's implication of Bayonetta's survival may have been misinterpreted by players. Kamiya has since left PlatinumGames and is now working on a sequel to Okami with his new studio, Clovers.
Showgunners Review | TheXboxHub
Showgunners is a turn-based strategy game that blends XCOM-like combat with a reality TV show premise where players control Scarlett surviving a gauntlet. While the exploration segments are weaker, the combat is dynamic and features a unique fame system that influences sponsorships. Despite some level design flaws, the game's vibrant presentation and cartoonish style give it a distinct personality.
Last Of Us Part 3 plot concept revealed by ex-Naughty Dog developer
A former Naughty Dog senior lighting artist, Gabriel Betancourt, revealed a potential plot concept for The Last of Us Part 3 discussed with Neil Druckmann. The concept involves the existence of a congregation of other immune survivors, which would significantly alter the narrative focus from Ellie's unique immunity. While a third game is not confirmed, this detail offers the first glimpse into possible story directions.
The horrible Construct cyborgs of tactics game Menace are getting a rework for "style" and "variety", while the devs put a bullet in the promotion tax
The mercenary tactics game Menace is receiving a significant update that removes the controversial promotion tax and overhauls the Construct enemy faction. Developers Overhype are also adding the ability for all units to clear wrecked vehicles, aiming to improve gameplay variety and reduce player frustration.
Deus Ex: Human Revolution forgot toilet paper exists in 2027
An observant player noted the absence of toilet paper in Deus Ex: Human Revolution, highlighting how small details can impact immersion in game worlds. While the game excels at environmental storytelling and depicting a technologically advanced 2027, this mundane oversight breaks the illusion for some players. The article discusses the challenges developers face in creating believable worlds and how such details, though often overlooked, contribute to a game's charm and the community's engagement with its lore.
Nullstar: Solus Review | TheXboxHub
Nullstar: Solus is a precision platformer that excels in its movement mechanics and handcrafted level design, offering a gripping experience for genre fans. While the game struggles to introduce new mechanics after its tutorial, its strong presentation and replayability make it a flawed yet entertaining addition to the genre.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Dispatch lead at BAFTA Awards 2026
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Dispatch each won three awards at the BAFTA Awards 2026. Clair Obscur secured Best Game, Debut Game, and Performer in a Leading Role for Jennifer English, while Dispatch won for Animation, Audio Achievement, and Performer in a Supporting Role for Jeffrey Wright. Ilkka Paananen, CEO of Supercell, received a BAFTA Fellowship.
100+ Gross Grimer Nicknames (Funny, Weird, and Sludge-Inspired Ideas)
This article provides a comprehensive list of nicknames for the Pokémon Grimer, categorized by themes such as sludge, humor, and power. It explores Grimer's unique design, personality, and battle style, offering advice on choosing a name that fits both Grimer and its evolution, Muk. The guide also touches upon Alolan Grimer and the personal significance of naming a Pokémon.
100+ Mystical Abra Nicknames (Cool, Clever, and Psychic-Inspired Ideas)
This article provides a comprehensive list of nickname ideas for the Pokémon Abra, focusing on its Psychic-type abilities, magical associations, and unique personality. It explores names suitable for Abra's entire evolutionary line, from Abra to Kadabra and Alakazam, offering suggestions based on psychic powers, magic, cuteness, and gender. The guide also delves into the reasons behind Abra's popularity and coolness, emphasizing its challenging catch and rewarding evolution.