Category: Gaming

  • AdHoc Studio’s Dispatch Sells 1 Million Units in 10 Days

    AdHoc Studio’s Dispatch Sells 1 Million Units in 10 Days

    Key Takeaways

    1. AdHoc Studio, formed by ex-Telltale Games employees, launched their new game Dispatch, selling over one million copies in just ten days after its release on October 22.
    2. Dispatch has been well-received, with a 91% Very Positive rating on Steam and an 84/100 score on Metacritic.
    3. The game fills a gap in the episodic storytelling market left by Telltale’s decline, appealing to fans of choice-driven narratives.
    4. Dispatch features an impressive voice cast, including Aaron Paul, Jeffrey Wright, and Laura Bailey, along with popular content creators.
    5. The game follows a traditional episodic release format, with episodes 3 and 4 already launched and episodes 5 and 6 scheduled for release on November 5 and November 12, respectively.

    Episodic storytelling games are making a comeback, thanks to a group of former Telltale Games employees who came together to create AdHoc Studio. Their new game, Dispatch, has already sold over one million copies within just ten days of its launch on PS5 and PC on October 22.

    A Celebratory Milestone

    AdHoc took to X to share their excitement about this achievement with a playful tone, saying, “2 days. 80 million copies sold. Would’ve been nice. We sold 1 million in 10 days, though. Still pretty good.”

    Critical Acclaim

    Dispatch has received praise from both gamers and critics, boasting a 91% Very Positive rating on Steam from about 20,000 reviews. On Metacritic, it holds a Generally Favorable score of 84/100 based on five critic reviews. Additionally, players have rated it a 9.3 based on 178 reviews.

    Filling the Void Left by Telltale

    After Telltale’s decline in 2018, there was a noticeable gap in the episodic game market, especially those focused on choices and consequences. Even spin-offs like Life is Strange: Double Exposure struggled to capture interest. However, Dispatch has emerged as a refreshing option for fans.

    AdHoc Studio was established by ex-Telltale members, including co-founder and Chief Creative Officer Pierre Shorette, who is known for his work on popular titles such as The Wolf Among Us, Tales from the Borderlands, The Walking Dead, and Batman: The Telltale Series.

    Star-Studded Voice Cast

    Beyond its humorous superhero theme, AdHoc managed to bring in impressive voice talent and content creators for Dispatch. Players take on the role of Robert Robertson, also known as Mecha Man, voiced by Aaron Paul.

    Having been demoted to a dispatcher after losing his suit, Robert must now lead a team of reformed supervillains, featuring Jeffrey Wright as Track Star, Laura Bailey as Invisigal, along with internet stars like Jacksepticeye, MoistCr1TiKaL, Alanah Pearce, and Matthew Mercer.

    Episode Releases

    Sticking to Telltale’s familiar episodic format, Dispatch is a superhero comedy that launched its first two episodes on October 22. Episodes 3 and 4 were released last week, with episodes 5 and 6 set to drop on November 5, 2025, at 9 AM PDT. The concluding episodes are planned for release on Wednesday, November 12.

     

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  • UK Parliament demands clarity on disabled purchased games

    UK Parliament demands clarity on disabled purchased games

    Key Takeaways

    1. UK MPs are addressing gamer frustration over losing access to purchased video games, particularly those relying on live services.
    2. The e-petition 702074 calls for changes in consumer laws to prevent game publishers from making sold games unplayable.
    3. The gaming industry significantly contributes £7.6 billion to the UK economy and supports over 75,000 jobs.
    4. A 2023 study found that 87% of games released before 2010 are “critically endangered” and not commercially available.
    5. MPs emphasize the need for transparency from publishers regarding the lifespan of games at the point of sale.

    UK MPs have recently focused on the anger of gamers who are losing access to video games they once bought. A passionate debate took place in Westminster Hall on November 3 regarding e-petition 702074, which is called “Prohibit publishers irrevocably disabling video games they have already sold.” This petition is calling for changes in consumer laws to stop video game publishers from making sold games unplayable, particularly those that rely on live services.

    Opening Remarks

    Ben Goldsborough, the MP for South Norfolk, began the discussion by saying, “I come to the debate not only as a member of Parliament, but also as a lifelong gamer.” He has played games like Cities: Skylines, Victoria II, and the Oddworld series with much enthusiasm. He highlighted how crucial the gaming industry is, noting that it “contributes £7.6 billion to the UK economy and supports more than 75,000 jobs,” and it acts as a “cultural powerhouse shaping stories, art, music, and technology.”

    Concerns About Game Ownership

    Goldsborough elaborated on how live service games, which depend on servers, have changed the way consumers think about game ownership. He remarked, “When a game shuts down without clear notice, the investment is lost. The shared world disappears.” The discussion swiftly shifted to worries about preserving games, with Goldsborough pointing out that a 2023 study by the Video Game History Foundation discovered that 87% of games released before 2010 are considered “critically endangered” because they are not available commercially in either digital or physical formats.

    Warinder Juss, the MP for Dudley North, joined the conversation and made a comparison, saying, “We do not accept our mobile phones being switched off whenever a company produces a new model and wants us to buy the new model. So why should we allow thousands of pounds worth of games to be made unplayable just because new games have been introduced?”

    Example of Concord

    To the shock of many gamers, Sony’s game Concord became a key example in the discussion, highlighting the issue of video game shutdowns. The servers for this live-service shooter went offline just two weeks after its launch. Henry Tufnell, the MP for Mid and South Pembrokeshire, brought up Concord in the debate, commenting, “A recent example is Concord, a game released for PlayStation 5 and Windows in August 2024. After a disappointing launch, Sony Interactive Entertainment decided to shut it down.”

    He acknowledged that Sony did refund all purchases, which is commendable, but pointed out that this is not always the case with certain titles being removed with little notice. Tufnell stated, “Members will agree that if publishers fail to make the lifespan of a game clear at the point of sale, they must be held accountable.”

    Conclusion

    Goldsborough concluded his points by opposing strict regulations on the industry, saying they “stifle innovation,” and emphasized that “gamers deserve clarity. If a game is likely to go offline, they should be told.” UK Parliament.

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  • Outer Worlds 2 Director Advocates for Meaningful RPG Choices

    Outer Worlds 2 Director Advocates for Meaningful RPG Choices

    Key Takeaways

    1. RPGs have traditionally coddled players by ensuring every choice leads to success, which diminishes the meaning of choices.
    2. For choices to be meaningful, they must have the potential for both good and bad outcomes based on player actions.
    3. Players should engage thoughtfully with RPGs instead of relying solely on objective markers that bypass character interactions.
    4. Obsidian’s design in The Outer Worlds 2 allows players to explore different strategies and access all content from the start.
    5. The success of games like Baldur’s Gate 3 indicates a shift back towards meaningful player choice in RPGs.

    Following the recent release of The Outer Worlds 2, game director Brandon Adler took some time to consider and discuss his views on RPG design philosophy. He expressed that the genre has been “coddling” players for years, giving them a sure chance of winning no matter their choices or character builds. Adler hopes to see this approach change, and it appears to be shifting with the success of games like Baldur’s Gate 3.

    Adler’s Perspective on RPG Design

    In a conversation with GamesRadar+, Adler shared his beliefs:

    Overall, it seems like a lot of games, especially RPGs, operate under the idea that, ‘Hey, you can’t make bad choices, so every character build is okay, and we guarantee that whatever you do, everything will turn out alright.’

    The issue with this, in my view, is that for choices to be meaningful, they must have the potential to be either good or bad, based on the player’s actions.

    The Importance of Player Choice

    Adler also noted that he has seen many content creators and streamers experimenting with “bad character builds” in The Outer Worlds 2. He believes these builds and decisions are “perfectly valid ways to play.” However, he criticized the tendency of gamers to depend heavily on objective markers, which allow players to bypass thoughtfully designed NPC interactions and conversations.

    He went on to mention:

    In a genuine RPG, you really need to consider what’s happening while you’re playing through it. You should be ready to engage with the game. I’m noticing more of this now, especially with releases like Baldur’s Gate 3.

    I think it’s beginning to shift back in that direction. That’s wonderful because I believe players are going to enjoy rediscovering how RPGs can provide real player choice that they might have been missing for a while.

    Obsidian’s Game Design Choices

    Staying true to this philosophy, Obsidian chose not to restrict quests in The Outer Worlds 2, enabling players to try out different strategies and maintain access to all content right from the start.

    In another interview, Adler discussed the RPG experience in The Outer Worlds 2 and remarked, “Everyone is going to have a unique experience, and they might not encounter everything, and that’s perfectly fine.”

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  • Toby Fox Invites Friends to Playtest Deltarune Chapter 5

    Toby Fox Invites Friends to Playtest Deltarune Chapter 5

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date: Deltarune Chapters 3 and 4 were released together on October 31, 2025, while Chapter 5 is in private playtesting.
    2. Developer’s Anxieties: Toby Fox feels anxious about meeting fans’ expectations for Chapter 5, despite positive feedback from friends who have played it.
    3. Chapter References: A playful reference to Chapter 3’s antagonist was shared, highlighting Toby’s tendency to drop hints in his messages.
    4. Pricing Structure: Players can access Chapters 1 and 2 for free, but subsequent chapters 3 and beyond are priced at $24.99 each.
    5. Future Releases: Chapters 6 and 7 are expected to be released in 2027, and Chapter 5 will not come out in the first half of 2026.

    Toby Fox’s Deltarune Chapters 3 and 4 were released together on October 31, 2025. Meanwhile, close pals of the Undertale creator are already getting to experience Chapter 5 in private playtests.

    Early Insights on Chapter 5

    In a post on Bluesky, Toby mentioned that he allowed a friend to try out an initial, unfinished version of Chapter 5. The friend’s feedback was, “I can’t stop thinking about it and want to play more, plus it’s cute when Toby worries if it’s good enough.”

    It seems Toby’s friends might be having a blast with the game, but the developer himself is feeling anxious about living up to fans’ expectations for the next installment. He is recognized for being very detail-oriented during the creation process.

    Reactions from Friends

    Additionally, Toby shared a reaction from another friend regarding the new chapter, saying, “What’s the opposite of ‘I miss Tenna?’” This reference is a nod to the antagonist from Chapter 3’s TV World storyline.

    Fox is known for dropping hints or odd statements in his messages, often hinting at what’s ahead in his games. Amid the fans’ confusion, he clarified, “My friend said this in a joking manner and it might not have a deep meaning. They enjoyed the game.”

    Pricing and Future Chapters

    Currently, Deltarune is planned as a seven-chapter series. Players can access Chapters 1 and 2 for free. However, those looking to continue will need to pay $24.99 for each subsequent chapter.

    Chapters 3 and 4 were released to great acclaim, achieving an “Overwhelmingly Positive” rating on Steam, with an impressive user score of 98.56% from 78,000 reviews.

    As for Chapters 6 and 7, not much information is available, but they are anticipated to come out in 2027. Regarding the release of Chapter 5, Toby has managed fan expectations by stating, “Deltarune Chapter 5 will not come out in the first half of 2026. There aren’t any outside factors affecting the release this time. We’ll launch it when it’s ready.”

    Earlier, Toby mentioned facing some “obstacles” during the development of Chapters 3 and 4. Now that those issues have been resolved, he noted that there’s “not much standing in our way now.”

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  • OneXFly Apex: Global Launch Plans for Liquid-Cooling Gaming Handheld

    OneXFly Apex: Global Launch Plans for Liquid-Cooling Gaming Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. One-Netbook announced the OneXPlayer Super X, its first device powered by AMD Strix Halo, but has not revealed a specific Kickstarter launch date.
    2. The OneXFly Apex gaming handheld will launch on Indiegogo on November 9 at 15:00 UTC.
    3. The launch price for the OneXFly Apex will be $1,399, comparable to the GPD Win 5’s pricing.
    4. The OneXFly Apex offers upgrade options for RAM and storage, with prices ranging from $1,599 to $2,239.
    5. All configurations of the OneXFly Apex can be upgraded with a dedicated liquid cooling system for an additional $60.

    Last week, One-Netbook shared its worldwide release schedule for its first device powered by AMD Strix Halo. To clarify, the OneXPlayer Super X is the initial Strix Halo device that One-Netbook has introduced. It was announced in August as a rival to the Asus ROG Flow Z13 (currently priced at $2,199 on Amazon), but One-Netbook has not provided a specific date for when the OneXPlayer Super X will go live on Kickstarter, despite earlier indications that it would be by the end of September.

    Upcoming Launch for OneXFly Apex

    As we look forward to more updates about the OneXPlayer Super X, One-Netbook is set to launch its OneXFly Apex gaming handheld on Indiegogo on November 9. The crowdfunding campaign will kick off at 15:00 UTC. For your convenience, the image below displays the launch times for different time zones.

    Pricing Details for OneXFly Apex

    In addition, One-Netbook has confirmed the launch pricing for the OneXFly Apex. For comparison, the GPD Win 5 was launched on the same Indiegogo platform at a cost of $1,448, featuring a Ryzen AI Max 385 APU, 32 GB of RAM, and 1 TB of storage. On the other hand, the more powerful Ryzen AI Max+ 395 models began at $1,650, with 32 GB of RAM and 2 TB of storage.

    In contrast, the OneXFly Apex will be priced at $1,399, matching the same base configuration as the Win 5. Furthermore, the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 can be upgraded to 48 GB, 64 GB, or 128 GB of RAM, costing $1,599, $1,799, and $2,239, respectively. Alternatively, One-Netbook is providing all configurations with a dedicated liquid cooling system for an additional $60 fee across all options. More information is available in the images below.

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    OneXFly Apex: Global Launch Plans for Liquid-Cooling Gaming HandheldOneXFly Apex: Global Launch Plans for Liquid-Cooling Gaming HandheldOneXFly Apex: Global Launch Plans for Liquid-Cooling Gaming Handheld

     

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  • PlayStation Portal Launches Native Cloud Streaming Features

    PlayStation Portal Launches Native Cloud Streaming Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. PlayStation Portal users can stream games directly without needing a base console, exclusive to PS Plus Premium members.
    2. A full list of streamable games is available online, with a search tool to check game availability in your library.
    3. The handheld device features a new main screen for cloud streaming activities and supports 3D Audio for streamed games.
    4. PlayStation Portal can function independently from a console, allowing the primary PS5 to serve as a second console.
    5. Limitations exist, as the PlayStation Portal cannot run games natively due to its mid-range Qualcomm SoC.

    PlayStation Portal users can now directly stream games on their handheld devices without needing a base console. This feature is currently exclusive to PS Plus Premium members, which makes sense since the PlayStation Now service was discontinued some time back.

    Game Availability

    Sony has released a full list of games that can be streamed on a specific webpage. There’s also a search tool that allows you to see if your preferred game is available for streaming. Keep in mind that the game must be in your library to qualify for streaming. The PlayStation Portal has also introduced a new main screen dedicated to all activities related to cloud streaming. Moreover, the handheld device includes support for 3D Audio for streamed games along with in-app purchases for all compatible titles.

    Standalone Functionality

    In summary, PlayStation Portal can now be used without a dedicated console, a feature that ideally should have been available from the start. This handheld can now act as an independent device, though its capabilities are somewhat limited. It also allows the primary PlayStation 5 to serve as a second console, providing an experience similar to couch co-op. However, running games natively on it is not feasible since the PlayStation Portal is powered by a mid-range Qualcomm SoC.

    Sony’s continues to innovate, but there are still limitations that users need to consider.

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  • Sixunited AXP77: AMD Strix Halo 120Hz AMOLED Alternative to Asus ROG

    Sixunited AXP77: AMD Strix Halo 120Hz AMOLED Alternative to Asus ROG

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has launched the ROG Flow Z13 2025, the first 2-in-1 device using AMD’s Ryzen AI Max platform, priced at $2,169.
    2. The Minisforum V3 is recognized as the first gaming-oriented 2-in-1, but the ROG Flow Z13 2025 surpasses it in most features.
    3. The OneXPlayer Super X, with an AMOLED screen and larger battery, is a potential competitor but has no confirmed release date.
    4. Sixunited plans to launch the AXP77, featuring new unannounced AMD APUs and a 14-inch 2.8K AMOLED display with 120 Hz refresh rate.
    5. The AXP77 will be lightweight, equipped with USB 4 ports, two M.2 slots, and a 75 Wh battery, but launch details are still pending.

    So far, Asus has been the only company to introduce a 2-in-1 device utilizing AMD’s Ryzen AI Max platform. Known globally as the ROG Flow Z13 2025 (currently priced at $2,169 on Amazon), this device is not the pioneer in gaming-oriented 2-in-1s. That title actually belongs to the Minisforum V3. Nonetheless, the new ROG Flow Z13 2025 outshines the Minisforum V3 in nearly every aspect.

    Competing Devices

    The OneXPlayer Super X could potentially be a strong competitor against the ROG Flow Z13 2025, thanks to its AMOLED screen and bigger battery. It utilizes the same Strix Halo platform featured in Asus’ latest premium 2-in-1. Sadly, One-Netbook has been silent regarding its release since hinting that the OneXPlayer Super X would be available by the end of September.

    Upcoming Alternatives

    While we are waiting for more updates on the Super X, Sixunited is gearing up to launch its own alternative to the ROG Flow Z13. According to their press release, the AXP77 might be among the first devices to showcase the Ryzen AI Max+ 388 and Ryzen AI Max+ 392, which are two Radeon 8060S-backed APUs that AMD hasn’t officially announced yet.

    As depicted in the image above, Sixunited might also offer the AXP77 with Ryzen AI Max 385, Ryzen AI Max 390, and Ryzen AI Max+ 395 variants, although these could be restricted to 65 W TDPs with support for up to 64 GB of RAM. Additionally, Sixunited plans to equip the AXP77 with a 14-inch, 2.8K AMOLED display that provides a 120 Hz refresh rate. The device will have a 75 Wh battery, USB 4 ports, and two M.2 2280 slots, all packed into a lightweight 1.3 kg chassis that measures about 313 x 213 x 13 mm. However, Sixunited has not yet disclosed any launch details for the AXP77.

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    Sixunited AXP77: AMD Strix Halo 120Hz AMOLED Alternative to Asus ROGSixunited AXP77: AMD Strix Halo 120Hz AMOLED Alternative to Asus ROG

     

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  • Upcoming Free Games on Epic Games Store: Leaks Revealed

    Upcoming Free Games on Epic Games Store: Leaks Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Epic Games Store is currently offering free PC games for Halloween, but these will expire soon for new titles.
    2. Upcoming free game revealed by leaker MeguminShiro is ScourgeBringer, a 2020 roguelite platformer.
    3. ScourgeBringer features a strong female protagonist, Kyhra, who battles demonic foes to save humanity.
    4. The game is known for its challenging bullet hell mechanics and has received praise for its apocalyptic sci-fi storyline and design.
    5. ScourgeBringer typically costs $16.99 and has an 89% positive rating on Steam with over 1,150 reviews.

    Currently, users of the Epic Games Store can grab the free PC games offered as part of the Halloween festivities. However, these freebies are set to expire soon, making way for two new titles in the free games section. Along with this update, the store will disclose its plans for the timeframe of November 13 to November 20, 2025.

    Upcoming Free Game

    Before the official announcement, a well-known leaker named MeguminShiro has revealed one of the free games that will be available soon. According to the source, the game will be ScourgeBringer, a fast-paced roguelite platformer that was released in 2020. This tip indicates that it will be part of the free offerings during the specified period mentioned earlier.

    Game Details

    The game is created by Flying Oak Games and centers around Kyhra, the fiercest warrior in her clan. She is entrusted with the mission to save humanity from impending doom. To achieve this, Kyhra must battle demonic foes, delve into the depths of dungeons, and unveil various secrets hidden within.

    Difficulty and Design

    One of the standout features of this upcoming free title on the Epic Games Store is its challenging difficulty. It skillfully combines bullet hell elements, requiring players to have quick reflexes, as precise timing in dashing and attacks is crucial for staying alive.

    Moreover, the apocalyptic sci-fi storyline has garnered praise from many players. ScourgeBringer has won several awards for its overall design and execution. However, some players feel that mastering the bullet hell mechanics can be quite challenging, and a few have suggested that the levels could include more creative features, like skill-based trap rooms.

    ScourgeBringer typically retails for $16.99 when not on sale. It boasts an impressive 89% positive rating on Steam, with over 1,150 reviews from players. The game also supports controllers well (Xbox Elite Series 2 Core currently priced at $139.99 on Amazon). Check out the video below to find out more about this upcoming free title on the Epic Games Store.

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  • Hideo Kojima’s True Motivation: Bringing Joy Through Game Stories

    Hideo Kojima’s True Motivation: Bringing Joy Through Game Stories

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hideo Kojima launched the Death Stranding World Tour 2 at Lucca Comics & Games 2025, engaging thousands of fans in a panel discussion.
    2. The challenges of creating Death Stranding 2 included remote filming with actors due to the pandemic, which involved green screen technology.
    3. Kojima aims to inspire happiness and purpose in players through his games, reflecting on how movies helped him during a difficult childhood.
    4. He emphasized the immersive nature of video games, wanting players to feel significant emotions and life lessons through character relationships.
    5. Over 79% of players continued playing Death Stranding 2 after completing the main storyline, indicating a strong connection to the game’s themes of resilience and collaboration.

    Hideo Kojima launched the Death Stranding World Tour 2 at Lucca Comics & Games 2025 in Tuscany during the weekend of October 31 to November 3. He captivated the crowd during a panel where he spoke to thousands of fans, discussing the challenges faced in creating Death Stranding 2 and the deeper philosophies that inspire his artistic works.

    Panel Discussion Highlights

    During this World Tour, Kojima was joined by actors Luca Marinelli, known for his role as Neil Vana, and Alissa Jung, who played Lucy. In the panel, Kojima talked about the difficulties of making Death Stranding 2, highlighting that the pandemic made it necessary to film remotely, with actors performing in front of green screens.

    Kojima’s Creative Motivation

    Later in the conversation, Kojima shared what drives his creativity, explaining that he hopes players find happiness in life through his games. He expressed:

    “I grew up watching movies and reading books. As a child, the world often felt dark, and I didn’t have many good role models, so movies helped me. The characters, dialogue, and themes really lifted my spirits. They gave me the energy to keep going.”

    He continued, saying, “I want to give that back. One reason I make games is if someone plays my game and years later feels inspired to live because it brought them joy, that’s the greatest reward for me. I put a lot of thought into that when creating.”

    Immersive Gaming Experience

    Kojima emphasized the power of video games, noting how they can be deeply immersive, often requiring players to invest hundreds of hours. He remarked, “If I ask someone to spend that much time, I want to ensure they feel something significant while playing. Through the relationships between characters like Luca and Alissa, I hope players can take away something valuable for their own lives.”

    He acknowledged that he hasn’t fully achieved this goal yet, but it’s what drives him in his game development.

    Kojima’s reflective approach to Death Stranding 2 and its potential to provide players with a renewed sense of purpose resonates with many. Numerous individuals online have shared how the game’s themes of connection, resilience, and collaboration have supported them in tough times.

    Player Engagement Insights

    Kojima also pointed out that over 79% of players continued their journey in Death Stranding 2 even after finishing the main storyline, which may link to a stronger connection with Kojima’s vision of a post-apocalyptic Australia.

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  • Valve Introduces Exciting New Feature for Steam Community

    Valve Introduces Exciting New Feature for Steam Community

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve is developing a native polls function for the Steam Community, allowing creators to engage with their audience through “User Polls” in Events and Announcements.
    2. The poll workflow includes options for setting end times, voter eligibility, and result visibility, indicating a structured process for creators.
    3. Polls will integrate with existing Events and Announcements, utilizing current publishing channels for user content and developer engagement.
    4. Voter eligibility and visibility settings aim to prevent organized voting efforts and control who sees poll results.
    5. The feature is still in development, based on interface strings, and has not yet been officially launched.

    Valve seems to be getting ready to introduce a native polls function for the Steam Community. Recent interface strings show how creators might be able to include “User Polls” in Events and Announcements to engage with their audience. These strings are seen in new screenshots and mention specific settings instead of generic placeholders, which suggests that this feature is actively being developed rather than just thought about.

    Poll Workflow Details

    The text labels detail a complete poll process: writers can choose an end time either “after x days” or at a precise timestamp and can specify who can vote. Options include “any logged‑in Steam user,” “Steam users with this game in their library,” “Steam users with at least X playtime,” or “members of this group.” There are also toggles for result visibility like “only the admins of this group can see results,” “only those who voted can see results,” or “everyone can see results after the poll closes.” Additionally, an “on‑demand” option suggests that result pages can be accessed anytime by allowed viewers. Other labels include a minimum playtime requirement, a background image for the poll, and standard features for managing choices like “Add a Poll Choice” and “Edit User Poll Choice,” likely referring to a structured editor as opposed to random forum methods.

    Integration with Existing Systems

    One of the tooltip strings clearly mentions “embedded in this event,” aligning with Valve’s current Events and Announcements framework that developers use to share updates across store pages, libraries, and community hubs. If launched, polls could likely utilize the same publishing channels. Steam’s Community and Steamworks documentation describe these hubs as the main platform for user content and developer engagement, so adding polls would fit well with the existing communication tools instead of creating a new social feed. This information was shared by u/Stannis_Loyalist on r/Steam, who has a proven history of reliable leaks. Nonetheless, this is based on strings found by users and shared through community tracking, rather than an official launch.

    Potential Impact of Polls

    If this feature goes live, the voter eligibility and minimum playtime restrictions could help prevent organized voting efforts, while the visibility settings could allow creators to either share results privately with admins or publicly with all users after a poll closes. Until an official note from the client or Steamworks appears, consider this as a developing trial seen in the UI text, not a finalized feature.

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