Gait Games

Sundays are for wondering why the neighbour’s cat is mad at you. I thought we were getting along well – I’ve been letting her into the block regularly, and we have a little ritual where she runs partway up the stairs, and I do Mousey Fingers through the bannister. We had a little ritual, anyway. The last few times, she’s hissed at me and run away. “Ho ho, you goofball,” I say, as my heart quietly implodes. “Cats are so weird,” I chuckle, tears dripping from my chin, as I hurry into my flat.

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A few years ago, it’s entirely possible that Highguard isn’t the current talk of a town called Didn’t Work. But now, when everyone wants a piece of the live service pie, it’s not so easy to come in and claim some for yourself. We could spend an eternity figuring out what went wrong, but perhaps the words of former senior level designer on the shooter Alex Graner will provide a particular insight that the comment section of an annoying YouTuber won’t.

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I’ve had my eye on Mightreya since long before it had its name, when it was just clips of a somewhat generic anime girl doing sick tricks and beatdowns in levels without assets. But now it looks like a genuine (the -uine pronounced like wine, so you’ve got the right intonation) action video game, with a slightly less generic looking anime girl continuing to do sick tricks and beatdowns, albeit with a bit more context. And you can even try it out for yourself now with a new demo! Which I did and will tell you about thusly.

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### Pokémon Marks 30th Anniversary with Unprecedented Demand for Limited-Edition Merchandise

On February 27th, 2026, the Pokémon franchise commemorated its 30th anniversary, a landmark event that The Pokémon Company celebrated with the introduction of unique merchandise, which included a Game Boy-inspired black and white Pikachu plush. This launch, however, triggered wild reactions at various Poké Centers throughout Japan, with accounts of turmoil particularly noted at the Tokyo Bay venue.

One observer, user aeroflotlove, posted a video showcasing the chaos that unfolded as fans surged into the store at opening time without prior ticketing or queue management in effect. The scene, described as “total war,” featured shoppers aggressively pushing each other as they rushed to grab the limited-edition plushie. Reports indicated that children were caught in the mayhem, resulting in cries of distress amidst the frenzy.

The uproar was not confined to the Tokyo Bay Poké Center, as comparable occurrences were noted at other venues, including Yokohama and Osaka. Content creator Chris Explorer captured the tumult from outside the Tokyo Bay store, emphasizing the urgency of the scenario as staff sought to organize the crowd using megaphones.

This frantic pursuit for the exclusive plush highlights a larger issue within the Pokémon community—the persistent scalping crisis, where limited-release items are swiftly acquired for resale at inflated prices. While several online users attributed scalping as a key factor contributing to the chaotic situations in stores, a positive development arose shortly after the disorder; The Pokémon Company declared intentions to offer the monochrome Pikachu plush for order via their website, enabling fans to secure it without engaging in the melee.

The occurrences took place amid a backdrop of diminishing demand for Pokémon cards, with some specialty retailers in Japan reporting closures due to reduced sales over the previous year. This has prompted speculation that the speculative bubble surrounding Pokémon merchandise might be nearing its limit, indicating that the significant demand observed during the anniversary could represent an outlier associated with the festivities.

As fans look forward to more accessible opportunities to acquire Pokémon products in the future, the chaos of the 30th anniversary stands as a testament to the fervent commitment of the community, as well as the intricacies surrounding collectible merchandise in the current market environment.

When I first wrote about Hypnos upon its announcement last month, I noted how I don’t really know what you do in it. The trailer was entirely about The Vibes, but that was enough for my mechanically minimalist loving heart. I’ve now had a go at the demo, and to tell you the truth, I’m still not entirely sure what you do, and I couldn’t give a monkeys because oh me oh my, what a pretty world it does contain.

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### Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen: Selecting the Optimal Starter Pokémon

Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen have arrived on the Nintendo Switch, enabling enthusiasts to relish the nostalgic allure of the Kanto region as part of the franchise’s 30th anniversary celebration. With countless players immersing themselves in this classic, one of the enduring questions remains: which starter Pokémon to select? The choices are Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle—each possessing distinct advantages that can influence your adventure. Below is a summary to assist in your choice, although the final decision should be based on which Pokémon appeals to you personally.

#### Bulbasaur

Bulbasaur is a Grass/Poison-type starter recognized for its solid toughness. It evolves into Ivysaur at level 16 and subsequently into Venusaur at level 32, evolving four levels sooner than its rivals. Bulbasaur is especially advantageous against the initial two Gym Leaders: Brock and Misty, as their Pokémon weaknesses grant this starter a significant advantage.

Essential moves for Bulbasaur include Sleep Powder, Leech Seed, Giga Drain, and Sludge Bomb. Sleep Powder is crucial for strategy, facilitating battle flow management, while Giga Drain and Sludge Bomb provide sustainability and damage options. With high HP and effective status moves, Bulbasaur is an attractive pick for trainers who favor a balanced tactical style.

#### Charmander

Charmander, the Fire-type starter, has secured its place as a beloved choice among fans, largely due to its appealing design and its ultimate evolution into Charizard—a powerful Fire/Flying-type. Charmander evolves into Charmeleon at level 16 and into Charizard at level 36, the latter proving to be highly effective in the late stages of the game.

Nonetheless, Charmander encounters difficulties early on, particularly against the first two Gyms. It can counteract this with moves like Metal Claw, useful for dealing with Brock’s rock-types. As it develops, Charmander can learn formidable moves such as Flamethrower, Slash, Earthquake, Fire Spin, and Toxic, equipping it with capabilities to dominate against various foes by exploiting type weaknesses.

#### Squirtle

Squirtle, the Water-type starter, provides both adaptability and appeal. It evolves into Wartortle at level 16 and Blastoise at level 36. Squirtle is simple to train and showcases effectiveness against Brock while maintaining strong defensive attributes throughout the game.

While it boasts solid defense, Squirtle does face challenges in Gyms three and four. It can acquire Bubble Beam from Misty, presenting a valuable special attack early in the game. Upon evolving, Blastoise gains access to powerful moves like Hydro Pump and Skull Bash, along with Ice Beam and Blizzard to confront dragon-types, ensuring a well-rounded offensive and defensive strategy.

#### Which Starter Should I Pick?

In summary, if you’re seeking a well-rounded option, **Bulbasaur** is highly recommended. Its durability, ease of use in the early game, and advantageous move set render it an excellent starter. Furthermore, its evolutions offer flexibility, and the absence of strong Grass-type alternatives increases its worth. With Bulbasaur, players can embark on a solid journey, crafting a competent team while utilizing unique skills like Sleep Powder for capturing additional Pokémon throughout their adventures. Ultimately, select the starter that resonates with you the most; the main objective is to enjoy the experience the Kanto region presents.

**The Ascendancy of Prediction Markets Amidst Global Unrest**

In the early dawn of February 28th, 2023, tensions escalated sharply as the U.S. and Israeli forces executed an air strike on Iran, an act many have deemed unwarranted. This action followed weeks of military maneuvering and occurred during ongoing negotiations over a nuclear agreement, a backdrop that underscores the intricacies of international diplomacy in the area. The consequences of such military actions are dire, marked by increasing civilian casualties and a swiftly developing humanitarian emergency. As the circumstances progress, a novel aspect has surfaced: the confluence of conflict and prediction markets.

Polymarket, a betting platform where individuals can wager on a diverse range of events—including geopolitical developments—has emerged as a point of interest for those seeking to assess the uncertain environment. The platform facilitates anonymous betting on occurrences that span from sports to military engagements. In light of the turmoil in Iran, numerous bettors aim to profit from the escalating disorder, utilizing their perceptions to forecast results. This contrast between gambling and international strife raises ethical dilemmas concerning the commercialization of human hardship.

In a declaration, Polymarket highlighted its function as a supplier of “impartial forecasts,” asserting that the platform provides crucial insights during “heart-wrenching times.” According to the platform, its prediction markets can act as a resource for individuals impacted by the conflict, even claiming that they can deliver insights that conventional media sources fall short of offering. However, the actual situation is significantly more intricate. The users drawn to Polymarket frequently reflect a narrow demographic whose predictions can be profoundly swayed by their biases and personal stakes.

Detractors claim that the involvement of these bettors undermines the dependability of the predictions, particularly in critical situations like war. Historical examples exemplify this apprehension; for instance, the shortcomings of political bettors in Canadian elections indicate that collective intelligence doesn’t always align with precision. Furthermore, recent controversies involving betting in professional sports reveal that both the uninformed and the over-informed can hinder the integrity of prediction markets, further complicating their usefulness.

The surge of wagering on conflict has prompted distressing inquiries regarding the ethics of profiting from warfare. In earlier instances, such as Israel’s missile attacks on Iran, anecdotal evidence indicated that some bettors may have possessed insider knowledge, hinting at a troubling reality where monetary gain could drive disorder rather than peace. The existence of anonymous bettors only intensifies this problem, creating a possibly hazardous scenario where profits are linked to human suffering and mortality.

The financial ramifications of war—particularly in the Middle East—are intricately woven into a complicated network of interests, such as defense contracting and resource exploitation. The rise of platforms like Polymarket, which facilitate betting on the outcomes of these occurrences, raises significant questions regarding the ethical aspects of such practices. As bettors speculate on the consequences of military actions, the stakes transcend individual financial gain; they engage with moral issues that invite examination.

In a context where prediction markets converge with global conflict, the way forward necessitates a thorough investigation into the motivations and repercussions associated with these platforms. The commercialization of events that lead to suffering raises pressing questions about accountability, ethics, and the larger societal impacts. As we traverse this new landscape, acknowledging the seriousness of these matters is crucial to grasping the complete scope of modern warfare and its intersection with the global economic framework.

Last year, Owlcat announced they were working on another CRPG set within the world of Warhammer 40,000 called Dark Heresy. This would have potentially led to an assumption that they were done with their previous game, Rogue Trader, but nope! They’re still going, and a brief teaser for that CRPG’s next bit of DLC was shared (and when I say brief, I do mean it), and to wet your appetite, some gameplay for Dark Heresy is there to have a look at too.

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### Mark Fischbach: The Emergence of Markiplier and His Cinematic Endeavor

Mark Fischbach, better known by his internet alias Markiplier, has established a significant position for himself as one of the most prominent and lasting personalities in the YouTube realm. Since embarking on his journey on the platform in 2012, Fischbach has amassed millions of subscribers and views, primarily through his captivating “let’s play” videos that feature horror games, including *Five Nights at Freddy’s* and *Amnesia*. His charm and talent for engaging with audiences have allowed him to sustain a notable presence in the rapidly changing digital sphere.

#### A New Era: The Film Adaptation of *Iron Lung*

In a significant departure from his conventional YouTube offerings, Fischbach stepped into the roles of director and lead in the cinematic adaptation of the horror video game *Iron Lung*. This film endeavor has seen tremendous success, earning $50 million on a modest budget of around $4 million. Fischbach’s grassroots distribution strategy has allowed *Iron Lung* to effectively compete with larger studio films, highlighting the feasibility of independent projects in the current market.

Fischbach’s view on the film industry is both daring and perceptive. He recently conveyed his belief that Hollywood has been deliberately overlooking the importance of YouTubers and their potential input into filmmaking. In a discussion with the Lemonade Stand podcast, he stated, “There is that level of respect that I just haven’t met yet,” pointing out the gap in recognition between content creators and traditional filmmakers.

#### The Independent Film Scene

The triumph of *Iron Lung* reflects the rising trend where independent films exceed expectations at the box office. Similar to the 2002 blockbuster *My Big Fat Greek Wedding*, which transformed a $5 million budget into nearly $400 million, Fischbach’s film highlights the feasibility of low-budget projects. It also stands up to larger productions, like *Send Help*, directed by Sam Raimi, a filmmaker notable for his own low-budget horror origins with *The Evil Dead*.

For many creators such as Fischbach, financial rewards, while satisfying, are not the only driving force. It is the elusive pursuit of artistic recognition that often stings. This notion is echoed in the thoughts of other content creators, like Kevin Perjurer (Defunctland), who has critiqued the perception of online documentaries compared to traditional productions.

#### The Evolving Perception of YouTubers in Hollywood

Though Fischbach’s success may signal a change in how studios regard YouTubers, the overall industry dynamics remain intricate. The launch of *Shelby Oaks*, a horror film by YouTuber Chris Stuckmann, indicates a surging interest in partnerships between conventional film and digital creators. However, this adaptation garnered only moderate acclaim and commercial success, illustrating that not every project may achieve the same degree of impact as *Iron Lung*.

Furthermore, A24’s recent declaration of a film adaptation based on the liminal YouTube phenomenon *The Backrooms* – directed by emerging creator Kane Parsons – further showcases the growing trend of Hollywood engaging with the online creator community. Yet, insiders indicate that numerous projects involving digital creators often fail to advance, frequently remaining in development without reaching audiences.

#### Moving Forward: Fischbach’s Future Goals

As Fischbach envisions his prospects in filmmaking, he has shown an aspiration to delve into narratives beyond video game adaptations, signaling a desire not to be confined to a specific category. He mentioned the curiosity of studio executives, who are now approaching him with inquiries regarding the success of *Iron Lung*. “They’re all asking me the same thing,” he remarked, fostering a new conversation between mainstream Hollywood and digital creators.

Fischbach’s transition from YouTuber to filmmaker represents a transformative phase in the entertainment sector, where boundaries are becoming blurred between traditional media and digital creation. As he continues to navigate both domains, Fischbach stands as a case study for the ability of content creators to affect Hollywood and redefine the storytelling landscape. The future may promise even more innovative projects that challenge conventional norms and redefine success in cinema.

This week has been filled to the brim with game anniversaries: [Stardew Valley](https://kotaku.com/stardew-valley-marriage-candidates-new-update-1-7-qi-2000674093) reached its 10th year, [Pokémon](https://kotaku.com/pokemon-day-30-anniversary-go-anime-cosplay-stream-2000672824) celebrated 30 years, and *The Legend of Zelda* marked its 40th anniversary — though one wouldn’t fault you for overlooking that last one. Zelda’s milestone earlier this week was observed with minimal excitement; no new games or remakes were revealed, nor any updates regarding the anticipated live-action film. The only offerings were some [miniature weapon replicas](https://www.ign.com/articles/nintendo-mostly-ignored-the-legend-of-zeldas-40th-anniversary-but-heres-some-toy-versions-of-classic-weapons), and even those are limited to select retailers in Japan.

As it seems Nintendo is too preoccupied with [celebrating Pokémon](https://kotaku.com/pokemon-presents-30-anniversary-stream-recap-winds-waves-2000674383), [IGN](https://www.ign.com/articles/as-zelda-turns-40-voice-actress-patricia-summersett-reveals-hopes-for-the-future-and-clarifies-her-thoughts-on-link-and-zeldas-gorgeous-relationship) has stepped in to honor the iconic Zelda franchise via an interview with the voice of Zelda, Patricia Summersett.

Summersett has been an ardent Zelda fan throughout her life and has provided the voice for Princess Zelda for the past decade. She has appeared in both *Breath of the Wild* and *Tears of the Kingdom*, in addition to the spin-offs *Age of Calamity* and *Age of Imprisonment*.

### Inside the Casting for Princess Zelda

When inquired about the audition process, Summersett shared that she was unaware she was auditioning for Princess Zelda: “The best way to describe it was as a bleached script, where you have a certain degree of information about the character archetypes and the general world — for instance, that it resembles an RPG fantasy — but you have no clue what the actual roles are or what the game is. There would have been no way to predict that it was Zelda since she had no voice before. I would never have guessed that was the game I was auditioning for.”

Summersett also clarifies that Zelda’s British accent was not specified by Nintendo, but rather a choice influenced by her education in London and Zelda’s royal lineage. “It’s somewhat easier to describe this as a Hylian accent rather than just a specific UK accent,” she states.

### Thoughts on the Live-Action Movie

Regarding the forthcoming [live-action Zelda adaptation](https://kotaku.com/zelda-live-action-movie-link-bragason-ainsworth-leak-2000644816), Summersett commented, “Clearly Bo Bragason is going to nail it, she will be fantastic. I’m thrilled to have participated in any way, despite not knowing where it’s going, apart from the fact that it’s been 10 years now. I’m just astonished that I’ve been part of this franchise for a quarter of that time.”

“Certainly [the movie] will be a significant collaboration between those new to the series and those who are well-versed in it. [I believe] you will witness a strong portrayal of Zelda. I’m sure there will be a strong lead character in Zelda. And Link, I have no clue, will he speak? They certainly haven’t hinted that he will, as of yet.”

### So, Are Link and Zelda Officially Dating? (No)

Previously, Summersett expressed her personal opinions on the dynamics of Link and Zelda’s relationship, which were later [misinterpreted](https://x.com/Summersett_/status/1660658772824530944) in a widely shared article. “I have various personal theories about what [their relationship] could entail, but I believe there’s something beautiful in the ambiguity; it remains in a sort of — if there are romantic hints, they exist in an unrequited manner. There’s undoubtedly a profound friendship and protectorship between them. It’s a beautiful relationship and continues to evolve while remaining open in numerous iterations of this.”

“And what that signifies for me, as someone who represents the character at events like conventions, is that anyone can approach me with their interpretation of what they view Link and Zelda to be. Much of it manifests in the form of couples.