Game Design
Ongoing coverage on Game Design.
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Modern Warfare 4 reopens the skill-based matchmaking can of worms: "Matchmaking isn't just data, it's a feeling"
Infinity Ward is addressing player concerns about skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, clarifying that it's not a return to tighter matchmaking from previous titles and that connection remains a top priority. The developer shared data indicating reduced quit rates and improved search times with the new system, which is inspired by older Call of Duty titles and aims to balance various factors for a better player experience.
Marvel's Wolverine director "pretty used to" criticism as Spider-Man taught Insomniac you can make a "great game" and some fans will still "find stuff to complain about"
Marvel's Wolverine game director Mike Daly acknowledges that Insomniac Games is accustomed to online criticism, citing the passionate fanbase and the studio's success with the Marvel's Spider-Man series. He emphasizes that the team's focus is on creating the best game for the character, even if it leads to criticism regarding design choices like linearity.
I Played Halo 2 Before the Rest of the World and Almost Reported the Abrupt Ending as a Bug
The author recounts playing Halo 2 before its official release in 2004 and mistaking its abrupt ending for a bug. This experience led them to nearly report the issue to developer Bungie, highlighting the unexpected nature of the game's conclusion at the time.
Mortal Shell 2 review - the perfect Soulslike for beginners
Mortal Shell 2 offers an accessible Soulslike experience, drawing inspiration from Elden Ring with its new open world. While it lacks major innovations and its open world design is questionable, the game features an impressive shell system, a stamina-free combat mechanic, and extensive customization options. It stands as a solid third choice in the genre for players intimidated by FromSoftware's titles.
Marvel’s Wolverine Was Announced Early Because it Would be “Very Difficult” to Hide, Says Director
Insomniac Games director Mike Daly explained that Marvel's Wolverine was announced early due to the difficulty of keeping its development secret, allowing them to cast the crew accordingly. The game, set to release on PlayStation 5, will not be an origin story and will feature a linear structure rather than an open world, focusing on Logan's character traits like his claws and rage.
Crossfire Developer Discusses Creative Vision and The Cover System in New Video
That's No Moon, the developer behind the upcoming game Crossfire, discusses their creative vision for the third-person shooter genre, aiming to challenge the status quo. The developers highlight their unique approach to the cover system and how Unreal Engine 5 has enabled them to implement new ideas. The article also touches upon the game's story-driven and character-focused positioning within the existing Crossfire IP.
Star Wars: Galactic Racer Might Include Movie Cameos if They’re Accurate to the Timeline
Fuse Games CEO Matt Webster discussed the importance of timeline accuracy for potential movie cameos in Star Wars: Galactic Racer, stating any appearances must fit the original trilogy era. The game will feature new story content, multiplayer progression, vehicle customization, and a betting system. It is set to release on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S on October 6th, with a physical release planned.
Meta Racing Puts Tactics Ahead of Chance, Paying Out in USDT
Meta Racing is a crypto racing game that emphasizes strategic decision-making over chance, with players earning in-game currency, IGT, pegged at $0.10. Competitors assemble car configurations, draft ability cards, and scout tracks to optimize their builds for turn-based races where skillful deployment of abilities leads to higher payouts. The game offers a low barrier to entry with starter bundles and encourages strategic spending on pilots and car upgrades for sustained earnings.
We Already Know What GTA 6 Is Going To Be
Despite immense hype, Grand Theft Auto 6 is likely to be an iterative sequel rather than a revolutionary title, building upon the successful formula of Grand Theft Auto 5. Recent gameplay leaks, while potentially misleading, do not showcase groundbreaking features, suggesting that the game will offer a familiar sandbox experience with potential enhancements to its online and user-generated content aspects.
Marvel's Wolverine was inspired by one of the few video game movie tie-ins that doesn't suck: "We had the…
Marvel's Wolverine game director Mike Daly revealed that Insomniac Games drew inspiration from the 2009 game X-Men Origins: Wolverine for its approach to authentically representing the character's abilities. While acknowledging the difficulty in translating Wolverine's powers effectively, the team found common ground with the developers of the earlier tie-in game. A preview suggests Insomniac has successfully captured the essence of the character, differentiating it from their previous Spider-Man titles.
GTA 6 cars need gas? OK, I'm finally on board
This opinion piece discusses the potential for Grand Theft Auto 6 to incorporate deeper simulation mechanics, inspired by Red Dead Redemption 2's life-like systems. The author expresses excitement over leaked gameplay showing a gas meter for vehicles, hoping for more immersive elements like managing hunger, working out, and dealing with debts to enhance the player's connection to the game world.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 multiplayer trailer
Activision and Infinity Ward have released a new multiplayer trailer for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, showcasing gameplay features like fluid movement, dynamic maps, and tactical combat. The trailer also highlights the game's soundtrack and confirms an October 23, 2026 release date.
Ever After Again Brings Stories: The Path of Destinies Back For A New Adventure
Spearhead Games has announced Ever After Again: A Stories Adventure, a new fantasy action RPG that continues the story of Stories: The Path of Destinies. The game features branching narratives, a revamped combat system, and will be released on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, with a demo available on Steam. Co-founder Atul Mehra expressed excitement for both new and returning players.
MapleStory Universe Kicks Off Vibe Camp Season 2 With $15,000 NXPC Prize Pool
MapleStory Universe has launched Season 2 of its worldwide game jam, MapleStory Vibe Camp, running from August 18 to September 15, 2026. Developers are challenged to create short arcade titles using MapleStory IP, with a $15,000 prize pool in NXPC tokens. This season introduces an AI brainstorming tool to aid in concept development and focuses on player retention and replayability.
Amid accusations of a post-beta difficulty bump, Mortal Shell 2 devs patch the new soulslike to stop players riposting so hard they steal enemy weapons
Cold Symmetry has released a hotfix for Mortal Shell 2 to address player concerns about difficulty and a bug where players could steal enemy weapons. The patch also includes fixes for crashes and stability issues, with a larger balancing patch scheduled for the game's full public release on August 20th. The article also speculates on potential future game modes, including a weapon-stealing mechanic.
Games are the most optimistic way I have found of looking at the world
The author reflects on how the video game Grow Home helped them overcome anxieties related to parenting by simulating safety and encouraging exploration. The game's 'Magic Beach' feature, where lost items reappear, is highlighted as a metaphor for how games provide a safe space to experiment and learn, ultimately fostering optimism through gratitude for these digital sanctuaries.
Snabbkollen: Realistiska eller tramsiga simulatorer?
This article discusses the appeal of both realistic and 'silly' simulator games, asking readers for their preferences. It also includes a roundup of recent gaming news, including leaks, release date announcements, and developer interviews.
GTA 6 gameplay clips and map leak and they show some controversial new features
Gameplay clips and map details for Grand Theft Auto 6 have reportedly leaked online, showcasing features like basketball minigames and a potential fuel management system. Rockstar Games has issued copyright takedowns for the leaked content, suggesting its authenticity, though an insider claims the footage is from an older build of the game. The leaks come ahead of an official Netflix showcase for the title.
Why the First Hour of a PC Game Matters More Than Ever
The initial hour of a PC game is crucial for player retention due to the abundance of choices available through digital libraries and subscription services. Developers must streamline the onboarding process, including updates, account setups, and tutorials, to ensure players remain engaged and don't abandon a game before its full potential is realized. Positive first impressions, marked by small victories and natural learning curves, are essential for both player satisfaction and developer success.
VS Studio adds another Tekken veteran as Kohei Ikeda joins as game designer
Former Tekken 8 director Kohei Ikeda has joined Katsuhiro Harada's VS Studio as a game designer, marking his return to working with former bosses. Ikeda previously spent twenty years at Bandai Namco Entertainment before announcing his departure in June. VS Studio, which is supported by SNK, aims to deliver top-tier gaming experiences through collaboration and innovation.
