Gait Games

### Hideo Kojima’s Upcoming Horror Game: An Insight into OD

Hideo Kojima, the acclaimed game creator, has recently unveiled a fresh screenshot of his forthcoming horror title, *OD*. The image displays a solitary, unsettling hallway, stirring feelings of recognition and nostalgia, especially among fans of Kojima’s prior project, *PT*.

This screenshot formed part of a more extensive Xbox-centered feature reported by *Entertainment Weekly*, which encompassed discussions with Kojima and various industry experts. Very little information is available about *OD* at this moment. What is known is that it is a horror game, apparently constructed as an anthology featuring contributions from different directors. Kojima has characterized it as “entirely unique” and “avant-garde,” suggesting it will explore various forms of fear, with the goal for players to “overdose” on horror. Thus far, two trailers have been unveiled: one showcasing actors Sophia Lillis, Hunter Schafer, and the late Udo Kier, articulating what appears to be a warped interpretation of “The quick brown fox…”, and another displaying Lillis involved in a ritual before being attacked by an enigmatic figure.

In a conversation with *Entertainment Weekly*, Kojima elaborated on the difficulties he encountered while pitching *OD* to gaming studios. He noted that multiple companies considered his idea to be “insane” and failed to recognize its potential. It was only Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, who recognized the game’s value and ultimately approved its development.

Kojima conveyed his desire to extend the limits of horror gaming, asserting, “I aimed to surpass the threshold of ‘scariness’ that other games have achieved.” He confirmed that *OD* will be a single-player experience crafted to be as terrifying as possible. For gamers worried about the horror’s intensity, Kojima hinted at a system that would allow them to keep playing without reservation—although he remained reticent about the details.

Along with the shared insights, the recently released screenshot illustrates a poorly lit, disturbing hallway featuring a vintage television and a shadowy presence lurking in an open doorway. The blend of a stark, unsettling ambiance and the existence of an ominous figure triggers memories of *PT*, which itself was set in a claustrophobic environment filled with anxiety.

*PT*, or *Playable Teaser*, was a 2014 demonstration for the highly awaited but ultimately canceled *Silent Hills*. After the game’s discontinuation, Kojima removed *PT* from the PlayStation Store, rendering it unplayable for most users unless previously downloaded on a PlayStation 4. The design similarities and thematic elements indicate that Kojima continues to delve into psychological horror themes similar to those found in *PT*, suggesting that fans might discover reflections of what *Silent Hills* could have been in *OD* whenever it eventually launches.

As excitement grows, many are eager to see where Kojima’s singular vision will lead horror gaming in the future, especially concerning how he influences player experiences and evokes fear. Only time will reveal how *OD* will stand out in the genre and what surprises await players.

**Hideo Kojima’s Upcoming Horror Game: An In-Depth Look at *OD***

Hideo Kojima, the renowned mastermind behind legendary video game series like *Metal Gear Solid* and *Death Stranding*, has been diligently crafting a new horror game titled *OD* for Xbox. Although a trailer and several teasers have surfaced, specifics regarding the game are still minimal. In a recent dialogue with *Entertainment Weekly*, Kojima provided details about the ambitious endeavor that seeks to deliver a novel gaming experience.

Kojima has been imagining *OD* since the beginning of *Death Stranding*, underscoring his dedication to expanding the limits of video game design. He pointed out that *OD* features a “new game system” that is unprecedented in the industry. Regrettably, this avant-garde approach led to doubt among major publishers, with many considering his concept too unorthodox. Kojima disclosed that when he pitched his ideas to different companies, he often encountered reactions of disbelief, with some labeling him as “crazy.” This shifted when he shared his vision with Xbox, where former CEO Phil Spencer acknowledged the potential of Kojima’s concepts and subsequently approved the project.

Current Xbox CEO Asha Sharma also expressed her excitement about *OD*, characterizing it as a “deeply moving game.” This support from Xbox indicates a robust collaboration as Kojima and his team continue to polish the title in anticipation of its launch.

To elevate the horror genre, Kojima mentioned his goal to exceed current benchmarks of fear in video games. He recognizes that not all gamers might find the increased intensity of fear comfortable and has created a distinctive system to help these players manage challenging moments in the game. While specifics on this system are still confidential to prevent divulging too much information, it showcases Kojima’s insight into player psychology and his commitment to inclusivity in gaming.

*OD* does not yet have an official release date, enhancing the excitement around its rollout. The game boasts performances from actors Sophia Lillis and Hunter Schafer, while the involvement of acclaimed filmmaker Jordan Peele, known for his contributions to horror cinema through films like *Get Out* and *Us*, adds an extra layer of intrigue to the project.

As fans look forward to further updates, Kojima’s dedication to developing a game that redefines horror and includes groundbreaking gameplay mechanisms stands as a testament to his visionary outlook in the gaming sphere. With *OD*, he seeks to not only frighten players but also to connect with them on a more profound emotional level, setting ambitious expectations for its eventual unveiling.

After months of delaying, price worries, and scarce component-wrangling, the new Steam Machine is ready for launch. Valve have confirmed that the reservation system for orders – an initially randomised variant of how they’re current selling the Steam Controller – is open now for signups, and have lifted the embargo on Steam Machine reviews. That’s ours, right there.

Also, we finally know just how much you’ll be asked to pay for the diminutive SteamOS system. Ready? Here’s those Steam Machine prices…

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**Examining Queer Representation in the Final Fantasy VII Remake Trilogy**

The *Final Fantasy VII* remake trilogy has made notable advancements in crafting a more dynamic and genuine world, a vision propelled by game director Naoki Hamaguchi. Striving to fill the universe with characters and narratives that mirror the variety of real life, the developers have integrated numerous queer background characters that enrich the storyline as protagonists Cloud and his companions venture forth on their quest.

In a revealing interview with *The Gamer*, Hamaguchi highlighted the significance of incorporating queer romances to boost the authentic feel of Midgar and beyond. He remarked, “*Rebirth* is a game where you experience numerous towns, cultures, and relationships during your journey. In my perspective, the existence of diverse, genuine relationships throughout that journey also enhances the world’s authenticity.” This considerate strategy signifies a crucial progression towards inclusivity in gaming, particularly within the *Final Fantasy* series.

One prominent example of this representation is a narrative involving a pair of women who initiate their relationship through conflict. Players have witnessed their evolution from rivals to a loving couple, illustrating the depth and authenticity of LGBTQ+ relationships. Hamaguchi assured audiences that such plots were not introduced merely to fulfill a requirement but were developed with thoughtfulness and earnestness. “Our intention wasn’t to include a same-sex couple solely for the purpose of inclusion,” he clarified. “But to accurately depict the stories of those living in this world with thoughtfulness and sincerity.”

This considerate integration of queer narratives contrasts with previous remarks made by other titles in the *Final Fantasy* franchise. For instance, Naoki Yoshida, the director of *Final Fantasy XVI*, encountered backlash for his statements regarding the lack of diversity, suggesting that including ethnic diversity would clash with the game’s narrative scope. Hamaguchi’s methodology signifies a transition towards a more inclusive narrative framework within Square Enix, illustrating that varied representation can coexist with intricate storytelling.

In summary, the *Final Fantasy VII* remake trilogy does promise a world that feels vibrant and authentic, with diverse characters that embody a wide range of human experiences and identities. As players traverse this elaborate landscape, they are not just engaging with a game but also connecting with narratives that recognize and celebrate the intricacies of love and relationships in all their forms. This marks an exhilarating advancement in the realm of gaming and storytelling, advocating for inclusivity and authenticity.

Well, that answers that. The new Steam Machine, which Valve have just opened to randomised reservations, starts at £879 / $1049 / €1039 for the base 512GB model, and costs £1149 / $1349 / €1359 for the 2TB version – climbing to £1208 / $1428 / €1428 if you bundle in a Steam Controller.

To paraphrase my Steam Machine review stance on those prices: they’re pretty chuffing high, even if the Machine itself is a nicely designed (and unusually specialised) piece of lower-end kit. As for what Valve themselves think, I asked designer Lawrence Yang and engineer Yazan Aldehayyat ahead of today’s sort-of-launch, both of them pointing to the ongoing component pricing/availability hellscape that is RAMnarök.

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**French Video Game Union Calls for Nationwide Strike Amid Industry Turmoil**

On June 25, 2026, the independent French video game union, Le Syndicat des Travailleureuses du Jeu Vidéo (STJV), is calling on all employees in the video game industry to join a nationwide strike, referred to as the “Summer Greve Fest.” This initiative is in response to a notable surge in layoffs and persistent accusations of worker mistreatment by studio executives during a period of financial uncertainty in the sector.

STJV, which is committed to championing the moral and economic rights of video game workers, issued the strike call in a blog post on June 22, voicing their worries regarding the deteriorating conditions in the French video game arena. “The uniquely calamitous situation in the video games industry necessitates a unique response,” the union declared. They stressed that the ongoing crisis should not be disregarded and reiterated that job security is becoming increasingly endangered.

The impetus for this call to action follows a recent national strike that took place on May 27, which, according to STJV, did not result in any improvements. The situation has been worsened by recent incidents, particularly involving prominent studios like Quantic Dream. The developer, recognized for titles such as *Detroit: Become Human*, is purportedly preparing to eliminate roughly 115 positions following the underwhelming performance of their latest release, *Spellcasters Chronicles*. This game was taken off Steam less than three months after its launch, indicating a lackluster market response and contributing to heightened job insecurities within the company.

Along with the strike, STJV intends to set up a picket line outside Quantic Dream’s Paris headquarters on the same day. The union is urging all sectors related to video game production—including those engaged in game engines, marketing, esports, and online content creation—to take part in the strike and “simply not show up to work” on June 25.

STJV’s declaration mirrors a wider sentiment in the industry as workers seek accountability and improved conditions amidst a continuing trend of studio shutdowns and job cuts. As the union gears up for the strike, they remain dedicated to a series of forthcoming actions aimed at advocating for the rights of video game workers.

As the STJV expressed: “Summer has only just begun, and it’s going to be hot!” indicating their resolve to continue pushing for change during an uncertain time for the gaming sector.

Battlefield 6 and The Sims publishers EA are making another round of layoffs as they seek “to better meet fans’ changing needs”, according to a report. The exact number of people affected is unknown, but apparently, there have been cutbacks across recruitment, IT, customer support, and the “trust and safety” division broadly responsible for encouraging EA players and streamers to be nice to each other. The losses allegedly include remote roles in the USA, and a few seasoned EA staff working in Hyderabad, India.

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### The Powerpuff Girls: A Legacy and a Misguided Revival

I, much like many of you, enjoyed watching *The Powerpuff Girls* on television during my childhood. I recollect appreciating its quirky ensemble of villains, its clever recurring gags, and its incisive satire which, at that time, I was just beginning to grasp thoroughly. *The Powerpuff Girls* showcased outstanding cartoon artistry, and it concluded in 2005 after its latter seasons dropped in quality with the exit of creator Craig McCracken. A few spin-offs have emerged since, none reaching the same heights, and its followers have matured into adults. *The Powerpuff Girls* is, and has been, clearly finished for quite some time.

Thus, it’s not surprising that many individuals appear eerily enthusiastic about attempting to resurrect this cartoon in a misguided bid to profit from intellectual property, as seems to be the trend with everything cherished from the ’80s, ’90s, and early ’00s today. This time, it’s Warner Bros. doing the honors, having revealed today (through *Variety*) at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival that a new *Powerpuff Girls* movie is in the works.

*Variety*, however, also states that there isn’t even a deal established for this movie yet. There’s no script, no greenlight, no storyline, no cast, not even really a title associated. What this indicates to me is that nobody genuinely possesses any solid concepts for a *Powerpuff* revival. Warner Bros. merely holds an IP and seeks to profit from it, hoping this announcement will help them locate individuals who can facilitate that. Wonderful. Excellent motivation for creating art, folks.

We’ve encountered this scenario countless times before, both with IP revivals in general and with *The Powerpuff Girls* specifically. The series was revived in 2016; however, it was mediocre at best and concluded after three seasons in 2019. A second revival attempt, this time with McCracken involved, was announced in 2022, but there has been utter silence since, raising questions as to whether this project has collapsed at some point. And I won’t even begin to discuss the dismal live-action revival at The CW that was scrapped before it ever aired.

I feel like an old curmudgeon at this juncture, going through this ritual every time a major entertainment corporation seeks to resurrect a zombie franchise to extract the last remnants of profit from its remains (which seems to occur every week), but here we are again: leave *The Powerpuff Girls* be! Nothing positive can result from this! The original series was excellent, it was significant for many, and it’s perfectly fine to let things conclude. Honestly, I find it hard to accept that anyone is stepping in with fresh ideas for this nearly twenty-year-old series that are so remarkable that it justifies reviving it. We’ve already witnessed what occurs when Bubbles goes hardcore, when Ms. Keane dates Professor Utonium, and when Mojo Jojo saves the town (repeatedly, for some reason). We’re good!

I am pleading with Big Entertainment to cease rehashing the same narratives over and over. I am fatigued. Please invest in new creators developing original content and never make me utter the term “intellectual property” again.

Have to say, it was more fun when the Steam Deck launched. That was a cool thing, afforded the space and the grace to just be a cool thing. The new Steam Machine, by contrast, arrives at a time when the creative industry it relies upon is being stripped to the bone, and the physical components it’s built upon are trapped in a historically terrible econo-ravaging. Also, everyone hates each other.

As powerful as Valve are, there’s only so much a little SteamOS box can shrug off. The original Steam Machines, sent on their way before the game support was ready, already proved it. And it’s impossible to ignore how this new system, pitched last year as another Deck-inspired entry in the underserved budget market, is nearly 900 quid – assuming you go for the lowest-spec option. This, alone, will surely launch a thousand YouTube thumbnails declaring that the Steam Machine (8th in Steam’s Wishlist charts at the time of writing) is dead on arrival.

That, however, would not be a deserved end. The Steam Machine might not spark the same childlike wonder that its handheld uncle did, but looking past the numbers and actually living with it – as a discreet but quietly capable companion, more at home under a TV than perched on a desk – reveals it as not just a superior to those original Machines, but truly unlike any other PC you could build or buy. That’s worth something, even if it that something isn’t necessarily 1208 of your pounds.

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**Valve Reveals Pricing for Anticipated Steam Machines**

Valve has officially announced the prices for its eagerly awaited Steam Machines, marking an important milestone in the gaming hardware market. The entry-level Steam Machine will cost $1,050, with a model featuring greater storage available for an extra $300. For gamers looking to purchase a package that includes the Steam Controller, this option can also be selected at an added expense. While these prices may be steep, they are in line with the current market trends driven by heightened demand for computer components, especially RAM, due to AI hyperscalers.

On June 22, Valve stated that it would provide four unique bundles of the Steam Machine, permitting fans to pre-order their selected models. The available choices are as follows:

1. **Steam Machine 512GB**: $1,049 USD
2. **Bundle: Steam Machine 512GB + Steam Controller**: $1,128 USD
3. **Steam Machine 2TB**: $1,349 USD
4. **Bundle: Steam Machine 2TB + Steam Controller**: $1,428 USD (Includes two faceplates: red fabric and solid walnut)

As Valve makes its entrance into the hardware sector with the Steam Machine, these pricing models underscore the ongoing difficulties manufacturers encounter in obtaining vital PC components. The launch of the Steam Machine is set to draw in gamers looking for a comprehensive solution to their gaming requirements, notwithstanding the current elevated prices.

*Developing story…*