Category: Gaming

  • Stardew Valley 1.7: ConcernedApe Reveals New Content Insights

    Stardew Valley 1.7: ConcernedApe Reveals New Content Insights

    Key Takeaways

    1. Stardew Valley’s last major update was patch 1.6, and fans have been eagerly awaiting new content.
    2. The upcoming update, version 1.7, will enhance social features and introduce a new farm type.
    3. ConcernedApe hinted that there will be many more surprises in the 1.7 update.
    4. The ongoing development of Stardew Valley continues despite Barone’s work on his next game, Haunted Chocolatier.
    5. A release date for update 1.7 has not yet been announced, so players need to be patient.

    It has been over a year since Stardew Valley got its last big update, which was patch 1.6. During this time, fans have been waiting for new content and have been quick to reach out directly to the game’s creator, Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone, on X. He is well-known for his close ties with the player community and often replies to these inquiries, and he has done so again recently.

    Exciting Update Details Revealed

    In answer to a fan seeking a preview, ConcernedApe disclosed the first specific information about Stardew Valley 1.7. This upcoming update will enhance the game’s social features, adding more character interactions and new social aspects—something fans have been wanting for several years. Barone also mentioned that a new farm type will be introduced with this update. He pointed out that major updates typically include a new farm, and version 1.7 will follow this tradition.

    More Surprises Ahead

    To fans’ excitement, ConcernedApe stated that the improved social features and the new farm type are just a portion of what is in store. He hinted that there is “lots more” on the horizon, although he didn’t provide any additional specifics. The ongoing development of Stardew Valley, even after so many years since its launch, is quite uncommon—especially since Barone is also busy working on his next game, Haunted Chocolatier. However, a release date for update 1.7 has yet to be announced, so players may need to exercise a bit more patience.

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  • Steam Frame vs Other VR Headsets: YouTuber’s First Impressions

    Steam Frame vs Other VR Headsets: YouTuber’s First Impressions

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Steam Frame VR headset features impressive eye-tracking with foveated rendering for enhanced visual quality.
    2. It has a lighter weight, better ergonomics, and higher resolution compared to the Valve Index.
    3. The headset offers a more open platform and integrated eye tracking, making it a strong competitor against the Meta Quest 3.
    4. Competing headsets like Apple’s Vision Pro and Bigscreen Beyond 2 have their strengths but lack in comfort or have high prices and external dependencies.
    5. The PSVR2 is a cost-effective choice but feels more conventional due to its wired setup and basic ergonomics.

    Well-known tech YouTuber Linus Sebastian had the chance to visit Valve’s headquarters to experience the Steam Frame, the company’s latest VR headset. This headset aims to impress with features like cross-platform support, integrated eye tracking, and a completely wireless setup. For more in-depth specifications, check our previous report. Although Linus only had about two hours to test it, he was able to gather initial thoughts and make comparisons to existing models.

    Eye-Tracking Innovation

    Linus highlighted the Steam Frame’s impressive eye-tracking capabilities as one of its most notable aspects. Thanks to foveated rendering, the parts of the display that users are looking at become clearer, enhancing visual quality where it really counts. He also complimented the headset’s balanced design and its open platform, which he sees as significant advantages. However, he did express concern about the LCD screens, which he believes do not provide the best black levels.

    Comparison with Other Models

    When looking at the Valve Index, the Steam Frame really shines with its lighter weight, superior ergonomics, and higher resolution, as well as utilizing inside-out tracking with wide-angle cameras. Linus mentioned that the audio quality should be comparable to that of the Index, though he still has a few doubts. In a comparison with the Meta Quest 3, known for its excellent value, he pointed out that the Steam Frame offers a more open platform, is lighter, and includes eye tracking, which are significant benefits.

    Competing Headsets

    Apple’s Vision Pro excels in display quality, passthrough capabilities, and hand tracking but doesn’t match up when it comes to comfort and gaming appeal. The Bigscreen Beyond 2 remains superior to the Steam Frame in terms of weight and micro-OLED image quality, but it has its own downsides—no built-in sound, a hefty price tag, and reliance on external base stations. On the other hand, the PSVR2 is considered a good choice for its cost, but its wired setup, Fresnel lenses, and basic ergonomics make it seem more conventional and less high-tech overall.

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  • New Action-Adventure Sports RPG Gets 1000+ Positive Reviews on Steam

    New Action-Adventure Sports RPG Gets 1000+ Positive Reviews on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    Skate Story is a fresh role-playing game centered on skating that launched on Steam on December 8, 2025. This premium indie title comes from solo developer Sam Eng and is published by Devolver Digital. It is available for a price of around US$19.99, making it a mid-range PC release, unlike many free-to-play games.

    Unique Gameplay Concept

    At first glance, Skate Story may appear to be just another sports game. However, it actually resembles a surreal action adventure, built around precise skating mechanics and an engaging narrative. You take on the role of a delicate demon made of glass and pain, tasked by the Devil to skate through the ash-filled Emptylands, reach the Moon, and consume it to earn your freedom. Although this premise may seem bizarre, the gameplay revolves around mastering weight transfer, speed control, ollies, kickflips, and grinds, all while navigating a neon-lit underworld that feels more like an art piece than a real city.

    Positive Reception

    The initial response from PC gamers has been quite favorable. Skate Story holds an “Overwhelmingly Positive” rating on Steam, with about 96% of user reviews recommending it. This is an impressive score for a new skate game that demands skill. Top reviews highlight the fluid, immersive controls, “magical” worldbuilding, and the way the sound and music enhance the skating experience. While there’s limited criticism, it often focuses on concerns about long-term replayability and the game’s linear format, rather than any significant technical flaws. Many players have expressed a desire for a chapter selection feature to replay specific areas independently.

    A New Era of Skating Games

    Players are embracing Skate Story as part of the latest wave of innovative skate titles, distancing it from classic Tony Hawk games. The Verge’s review describes it as “one of the most unique skateboarding games of the decade,” praising its striking, dreamlike visuals and solid trick mechanics. In terms of comparisons, it balances somewhere between the meditative flow and soundtrack-focused style of Sayonara Wild Hearts and the indie approach to skating found in titles like OlliOlli World and Skate City.

    For those who appreciate this type of aesthetic, Skate Story is rapidly emerging as a noteworthy game to keep an eye on. Additionally, the game supports full controller use on PC and has been verified for Steam Deck (currently priced at $850 on Amazon for the 1TB/OLED model) as well.

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  • Lenovo Legion Pro Rollable Gaming Laptop: Specs and Mechanism Revealed

    Lenovo Legion Pro Rollable Gaming Laptop: Specs and Mechanism Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lenovo is developing a rollable gaming laptop called the Legion Pro Rollable, featuring the largest display ever seen on a laptop.
    2. The laptop will have a powerful Intel Core Ultra processor and an Nvidia RTX 5090 GPU, based on the existing Legion Pro 7i model.
    3. Its unique rollable OLED display starts at 16 inches and can expand to sizes of 21.5 inches or 24 inches using a button.
    4. The display utilizes a dual-motor tension-based system for smooth and uniform expansion, with adjustable aspect ratios for different sizes.
    5. The laptop will include various AI features, such as Lenovo’s AI Engine+, Smart FPS, and Adaptive AI Lighting, and is expected to be showcased at CES 2026.

    Lenovo is working on an exciting new laptop designed for gamers. Earlier this month, rumors started to circulate about a rollable gaming laptop, giving us a sneak peek at this anticipated device. Now, additional details have emerged, confirming that this laptop is set to be a powerhouse, featuring the largest display ever seen on a laptop.

    Specifications Revealed

    According to a recent report from Windows Latest, the Legion Pro Rollable gaming laptop will be based on the existing Legion Pro 7i model. It will be equipped with a “fully-loaded Intel Core Ultra processor,” probably the Core Ultra 9 275HX, alongside an Nvidia RTX 5090 GPU. One of the most captivating features of this laptop will be its rollable PureSight OLED display, which starts at 16 inches in its compact form. Users will have a button on the device to initiate the display expansion, allowing them to choose a size of 21.5 inches, or extend it all the way up to 24 inches.

    Innovative Display Technology

    The report indicates that the laptop employs a dual-motor tension-based system to roll the OLED screen from both sides (horizontally). This mechanism ensures the display expands uniformly while maintaining tension. However, the exact resolutions and aspect ratios for the different sizes are still unknown. The article mentions that the display will modify the aspect ratio according to the selected screen size. The Legion Pro 7i (buy RTX 5070 ti model on Amazon) currently available in stores comes with a 16-inch WQXGA (2,560 x 1,600) OLED screen with a 16:10 aspect ratio. Don’t forget to check out our review of the RTX 5080 model below.

    It is expected that the display will roll smoothly and quietly, utilizing low-friction materials that enhance its durability.

    AI Features and Future Outlook

    Windows Latest further notes that the Legion Pro Rollable gaming laptop will be loaded with AI capabilities, including Lenovo’s AI Engine+, Smart FPS, AI Frame Gaming Display, AI Screen Detection, Cursor Tracking, AI Game Assistance, and Adaptive AI Lighting features.

    While Lenovo has yet to provide any official details on the Legion Pro Rollable, it is anticipated that this concept will be showcased at CES 2026. Whether this innovative laptop will become available to consumers or remain a mere concept is still uncertain and will be revealed in due time.

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  • Play Grand Theft Auto: Vice City in Your Browser Anywhere

    Play Grand Theft Auto: Vice City in Your Browser Anywhere

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fans of Grand Theft Auto VI may find more enjoyment in the classic Grand Theft Auto: Vice City than in newer remasters, with some enthusiasts creating an HTML5 port for web browsers.
    2. Access to the HTML5 version requires players to verify ownership of the original game, limiting non-owners from playing the story due to upload verification and checksum validation.
    3. The HTML5 port features modern enhancements including support for various resolutions, gamepad and touch controls, and cloud saves for users with the appropriate key.
    4. The author reflects on personal testing of the HTML5 version, highlighting nostalgia for previous ports and the excitement of Grand Theft Auto’s transition to mobile platforms.
    5. The project is fan-made and operates in a legal gray area, claiming compliance with copyright laws while using publicly available open-source code, leaving its future uncertain regarding Rockstar Games’ stance.

    The anticipation for Grand Theft Auto VI has been really hard on fans, but those looking to revisit Vice City might find more joy in playing the classic Grand Theft Auto: Vice City instead of the newer remasters. Some enthusiasts have even taken the initiative to port the game to web browsers that support HTML5. A demo version of this HTML5 project can be played over at DOS Zone, but to get full access, players must confirm they own the original version and upload a file to verify it. This process is similar to the open-sourced reVC project, which also requires proof of ownership before you can build it.

    Limitations for Non-Owners

    For those who do not have the complete game, this presents a significant limitation. The story cannot be played at all without the original game files, as the first checkpoint at Hotel Ocean View will immediately prompt an upload verification. Additionally, the uploaded file must pass a checksum validation, which means that any pirated versions of the game will not work.

    Modern Features of the HTML5 Port

    This HTML5 version of Vice City is based on the open-source iteration of the game (which also inspired the unofficial Switch port) and is filled with contemporary features. It supports all resolutions, gamepad controls, touch controls, and even offers cloud saves if you possess the necessary js-dos key. It’s an impressive feat of porting, and the developers note that it’s a demo “provided for educational and research purposes only, to showcase the technical capabilities of running complex game engines in a modern web environment.”

    Personal Testing and Nostalgia

    In my experience with the HTML version of Vice City, it does indeed meet expectations, although I struggled to get my controller functioning on my desktop. Still, it brings back memories of the excitement surrounding the porting of Grand Theft Auto III and Vice City to Android devices in December 2011 and December 2012, respectively. It even evokes some nostalgia for Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, which was the first fully-3D portable Grand Theft Auto game launched for PlayStation Portable in October 2005.

    Legal Considerations

    However, unlike those official ports made for (at the time) lower-end devices, this project stands out. It is specifically designed for modern platforms and can run effectively on nearly any recent smartphone or desktop browser. This is a fan-made endeavor that may tread on shaky legal grounds. A specific “Copyright Compliance” section on the webpage asserts that the title is constructed solely from publicly available open-source code and complies with copyright laws while respecting the intellectual property rights of all holders. Nevertheless, only time will reveal whether Rockstar Games will permit its existence.

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  • Lenovo Legion Go 2 Leak: Cheaper Gaming Handheld Models Coming

    Lenovo Legion Go 2 Leak: Cheaper Gaming Handheld Models Coming

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Legion Go S is the first non-Valve handheld device to feature SteamOS, priced at $699.99 on Amazon.
    2. The SteamOS version is over 15% cheaper than the Windows version, but the latter is currently being offered at a lower price due to delays.
    3. Lenovo is planning to release a SteamOS edition of the Legion Go 2 at CES 2026, maintaining similar specifications to the Windows version.
    4. The upcoming SteamOS version will likely include an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and up to 2 TB of storage.
    5. Pricing details for the SteamOS variant remain unclear, but it is expected to be less than the current Legion Go 2 price of $1,099.

    At the beginning of the year, the Legion Go S became the first handheld device, which isn’t from Valve, to come with SteamOS (currently available for $699.99 on Amazon). This version has a unique Nebula Nocturne color and includes a special Steam shortcut, setting it apart from the Windows 11 model.

    Pricing Differences

    What’s more significant is that Lenovo has set the price of the SteamOS version to be more than 15% lower than its Windows version. However, the arrival of the SteamOS model was delayed so long that the Windows version was already being offered for much less than the listed price of the SteamOS variant.

    Upcoming SteamOS Version

    Despite this, Lenovo is reportedly working on a SteamOS edition of the Legion Go 2. As per Windows Latest, this new model is expected to launch next month at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. The specifications are said to remain the same, featuring an 8.8-inch OLED screen and a 74 Wh battery, similar to the original Windows version.

    Hardware Specifications

    Additionally, Windows Latest mentions that the ‘powered by SteamOS’ version will come with ‘up to’ an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, along with 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 2 TB of storage. This suggests that Ryzen Z2 configurations with either 16 GB or 32 GB of RAM may be offered too. While details about pricing and availability are still unclear, it’s expected that the SteamOS variant will cost less than the current Legion Go 2 price of $1,099, or the $1,349 for the Ryzen Z2 Extreme model.

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  • Retroid Pocket 6 Pre-Orders Open Now for March 2026 Shipping

    Retroid Pocket 6 Pre-Orders Open Now for March 2026 Shipping

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retroid Pocket 6 pre-orders began on November 2nd, following its reintroduction in late October, with a new shipping timeline.
    2. The initial batch of pre-orders will ship in early January 2026, while a second batch is now available for pre-order, set to ship in March 2026.
    3. The second pre-order window may last until the end of January, but no specific end date has been announced.
    4. Availability for general sale after the second pre-order phase is uncertain, prompting potential buyers to order now.
    5. The Retroid Pocket 6 features a 5.5-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, options for 8GB or 12GB RAM, and starts at $229 for the base model.

    Following the reintroduction of the Retroid Pocket 6 in late October, Retroid kicked off pre-orders for the handheld device on November 2nd. Now, the pre-order time has ended, along with the discount that was available during this period. However, Retroid has initiated another round of pre-orders, featuring a new shipping timeline.

    Shipping Details

    According to a statement on the Retroid website, the initial batch of pre-orders for the Retroid Pocket 6 is set to start shipping in early January 2026, just as was previously indicated. The notice also mentions that a fresh batch of pre-orders is now being accepted, which will begin shipping in March 2026.

    Pre-order Timeline

    There is no specific information yet regarding when Retroid will stop accepting pre-orders for this second batch. However, considering the first batch lasted for six weeks, it’s likely that this one could follow a similar timeframe. This suggests that the second pre-order window may continue until the end of January.

    Availability Concerns

    Retroid has not confirmed if the Pocket 6 will be available for general sale after the second pre-order phase concludes. Still, those interested in the Retroid Pocket 6 should consider placing their orders now instead of waiting for the pre-order period to finish. This is important because there might be yet another delay before the handheld becomes available for standard purchase.

    The Retroid Pocket 6 features a 5.5-inch AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 120Hz. Retroid is offering the Pocket 6 in two design styles — one style includes symmetrical thumbsticks, while the other positions the left thumbstick above the D-Pad.

    Specs and Pricing

    Regardless of which version you select, the Retroid Pocket 6 is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, along with 8GB or 12GB of RAM and storage options of either 128GB or 256GB. Additionally, it comes with a 6,000mAh battery, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, and runs on Android 13 straight out of the box.

    The starting price for the base model with 8GB of RAM is $229, while the version with 12GB of RAM is priced at $279.

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  • KTR1 S Custom Handheld: Swappable Sticks & Retro Gaming Features

    KTR1 S Custom Handheld: Swappable Sticks & Retro Gaming Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Customizable Handheld: The KTR1 S offers extensive customization options, including layout adjustments, display choices, and casing materials.

    2. Improved Performance: It features a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor with enhanced multi-core performance, surpassing the previous model in emulation capabilities for GameCube and PlayStation 2 games.

    3. Color Variants: The device will be available in four colors: purple, cream, black, and white.

    4. Pre-Orders Coming Soon: Pre-orders for the KTR1 S will open soon, allowing users to secure their device.

    5. Battery Options: The standard model includes a 6920mAh fast-charging battery, with a lighter version offering a 5600mAh battery.

    The first pictures of a new retro gaming handheld have surfaced, thanks to Brian Gray, who is also known as Retro Gaming with Deadfred. This new device is called the KTR1 S, which is an upgraded version of the KT-R1 gaming handheld from 2022, and Gray shared these images on his X account.

    A Customizable Experience

    Gray promotes the KTR1 S as “the true custom handheld.” It features a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor and comes with a range of options that let users tweak the handheld to their liking.

    The KTR1 S offers two aspect ratios: 4:3 or 3:2. Users have the option to swap the positions of the analog sticks, and they can choose between a plastic or magnesium alloy case.

    Color Variants and Pre-Orders

    The launch showed off the KTR1 S in four different colors: purple, cream, black, and white. Gray has also mentioned on his X account that pre-orders for the KTR1 S will be opening soon.

    In comparison to the previous model, the KTR1 S improves upon its specifications. It replaces the older MediaTek Helio G99, which had only two Cortex A76 cores and a Mali G-57 GPU, with a more advanced chipset.

    Enhanced Performance

    The new KTR1 S is built with a Dimensity 7300 that includes four Cortex A78 cores, four A55 cores, and a significantly stronger Mali-G615 GPU. These components are made using a 4nm process, which allows for multi-core performance that is up to 20% superior to similar options while maintaining good power efficiency.

    It essentially outperforms the 2022 model by providing enhanced emulation capabilities and stability for GameCube and PlayStation 2 games. Additional specifications reveal a 6920mAh fast-charging battery for the standard model, or a slightly lighter version with a 5600mAh battery, weighing around 220-230g.

    Customization Options

    The KTR1 S really excels in terms of customization; customers can choose a 4.2-inch 960×1280 IPS display in the classic 4:3 ratio, or go for a 4.5-inch 1080×1620 screen for modern gaming.

    Users can even adjust the layout to favor a Sega-style D-pad on top or joysticks. The shell is available in three types: plastic or a high-end magnesium alloy. The metal version allows users to customize their devices with over 44 color options for an additional $20 to $30.

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  • Nintendo Faces Backlash Over Censorship of Dispatch Artbook

    Nintendo Faces Backlash Over Censorship of Dispatch Artbook

    Key Takeaways

    1. Censorship Concerns: Nintendo is facing scrutiny over changes in artwork for the game Dispatch, which is seen as censorship compared to versions on other platforms.

    2. Artwork Modifications: The digital Art and Comics pack for Dispatch features characters in less revealing outfits on the Nintendo version, differing from the Steam and PlayStation Store versions.

    3. Community Reactions: The censorship appears limited to Nintendo of America, with fans noting that artwork remains unchanged in Australia and Europe.

    4. Previous Pushbacks: Nintendo has previously postponed the release of other games with adult themes, citing concerns over content, despite the characters being adults.

    5. Family-Friendly Image: Nintendo of America aims to maintain a family-friendly reputation, but the game’s Mature ESRB rating and potential misleading imagery raise questions about appropriateness.

    With games getting banned from Steam and other platforms, the topic of censorship has become very heated. Nintendo is also facing some scrutiny, as the launch of Dispatch is causing some concern. This fun episodic adventure is set to come out on the Switch and Switch 2 on January 28, 2026. However, players noticed some odd changes in the optional digital Art and Comics pack.

    Changes in Artwork

    The eShop DLC banner shows the characters having fun by the pool. However, the Nintendo version displays the superheroes with less revealing outfits. For instance, Flambae, also known as Chad, no longer has unzipped shorts. Some female characters like Malevola now wear swimsuits that cover more skin. The artwork clearly looks different from what is shown on Steam or the PlayStation Store.

    Reactions from the Community

    Interestingly, this censorship seems to only affect the Nintendo of America website. In a popular subreddit thread about the game, fans pointed out that the graphics stayed the same in Australia and several European nations. This isn’t the first time that a Switch game featuring adult themes has faced pushback in certain areas.

    Last November, the Brave x Junction publisher revealed that its release in North America and Europe was postponed. Nintendo flagged the fantasy RPG for suggestive portrayals of minors, even though Rideon argued that the characters were adults. The game was already accessible on the Japanese eShop and other platforms.

    Future of Dispatch

    Luckily, Nintendo Everything has shared that the Switch game will be released in those other regions on December 22nd. However, similar to the changes made to the Dispatch artbook, the publisher had to agree to alter some of the revealing outfits.

    It appears that Nintendo of America is trying to keep a more family-friendly reputation. It’s also possible that AdHoc Studio submitted the altered digital art without any pressure from Nintendo. Still, many gamers are questioning the appropriateness of the censorship for Dispatch.

    The game has a Mature ESRB rating, meaning players will quickly come across nudity and bad language, although there are settings available to lessen the graphic material. The cheerful pool scene on the eShop might mislead parents about the nature of the game. On the other hand, the marketplace continues to be filled with other suggestive images, despite Nintendo’s attempts to get rid of these titles.

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  • Glen Schofield Calls EA & Activision’s Post-Acquisition Era Bittersweet

    Glen Schofield Calls EA & Activision’s Post-Acquisition Era Bittersweet

    Key Takeaways

    1. Glen Schofield reflects on his decade-long experience at EA and Activision, highlighting their roles as major talent development hubs in the gaming industry.

    2. Recent shifts in ownership, such as EA’s deal involving Saudi Arabia’s PIF, signify a new era for both EA and Activision, impacting their status in the industry.

    3. Schofield contrasts the structured environment of EA with the chaotic yet passionate atmosphere of Activision during game review meetings.

    4. He expresses concern over the decline of these companies as leading publishers, noting the loss of their nurturing culture for developers.

    5. Schofield’s insights come amidst industry-wide challenges, including layoffs and the growing influence of AI in gaming, raising questions about the future of major publishers.

    Glen Schofield has been making headlines lately with his thoughts that are stirring up discussions in the gaming world. As the brain behind Sledgehammer Games and Striking Distance Studios, Schofield opened up a whole new topic when he shared his feelings about the “bittersweet” changes happening at major video game publishers, Electronic Arts and Activision.

    Reflecting on His Journey

    Schofield led the creation of Dead Space at EA back in 2008 and was involved in its spiritual successor, The Callisto Protocol, before leaving Striking Distance earlier in 2023. In a post on LinkedIn, he reflected on his ten years at both firms during their peak times.

    With news breaking about EA’s shift towards private ownership through a $55 billion deal involving Saudi Arabia’s PIF, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners—similar to Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard—Schofield decided to share his thoughts on LinkedIn.

    Changes in the Industry

    He compared the two companies, saying, “In the span of just a few years, the two publishing giants who shaped the last 20+ years of our industry have both entered new eras.”

    Schofield shared his feelings about his experiences at both studios, explaining that:

    I spent about a decade at each place, right in their primes. Seeing them lose their status as leading publishers and great training grounds hits harder than I thought.

    It’s understandable why Schofield sees EA and Activision as key places for talent. He further explained:

    EA was strict, organized, and structured in a way that made you rise to the occasion. Franchise reviews were tough, with no shortcuts or guessing.

    You needed to understand every detail of your game. They would push and challenge you, but once you left that meeting, you understood exactly where you stood.

    Different Environments

    He found Activision to be a different experience, describing it as:

    Where review meetings were loud, full of passion, and somewhat chaotic, with people asking questions over each other. Yet, these questions were sharp, focused, and always aimed at improving the game.

    A one-hour meeting often stretched to two and a half, but it felt worthwhile somehow.

    Schofield wandered down memory lane, noting that both companies shaped and nurtured a new wave of developers, but that era seems fleeting considering the recent acquisitions.

    He wrapped up his thoughts with:

    It’s hard to see these companies step back from what they used to be: major publishers, major developers, and amazing places to grow, learn, and refine your skills. They trained generations of us. Mine included.

    His remarks come at a time when the entire industry is facing challenges with numerous layoffs as AI becomes more integrated into games, and publishers and developers are striving for profitability amidst rising costs and stiff competition. His insights give a glimpse into how developers perceive two of the most significant game publishers in the industry, even while facing ongoing uncertainty.

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