Tomb Raider: Catalyst Delayed to 2028
The upcoming Tomb Raider: Catalyst has been delayed until 2028, a move that has disappointed some fans but also highlighted a perceived lack of enthusiasm for the franchise. One reader, Nostalgic raid, noted that fewer people seem to care about the delay, and online discussion of both the upcoming remake and the new game has been minimal, despite positive trailers.
It has been eight years since Shadow Of The Tomb Raider, a game that was not universally loved and did not achieve major commercial success, leading Square Enix to sell the franchise. The reader argued that while the reboot trilogy was generally good, it strayed from the core identity of Tomb Raider, potentially alienating longtime fans. The question remains whether nostalgia alone can drive the remake to top-tier success, given that the original gameplay may no longer appeal to modern audiences.
Ad-Based Streaming Games: A Mixed Blessing
Another reader, Gantz, commented on the concept of ad-based streaming games, suggesting that it could be a great deal for players but a poor one for advertisers. They noted that ads typically play only at the start of a session, and players can simply step away during that time. However, they acknowledged that intrusive ads during gameplay, such as in The Witcher, could ruin immersion, though the trade-off of a free £60 game might be worthwhile.
Switch 2's Second Year: A Disappointing Lineup?
Reader Menson expressed doubts about Nintendo's decision to potentially release a special edition Switch 2 for Zelda: Ocarina Of Time's 40th anniversary, calling it a 28-year-old game unfamiliar to younger fans. They noted that the second year of the Switch 2 has been lackluster, with no major unannounced titles expected. While The Duskbloods might release around Halloween, the overall lineup seems odd, and hopes rest on announcements for early next year.
EA Sports FC 27 Pricing Sparks Debate
Reader Coolsbane criticized the £140 price tag for the EA Sports FC 27 Ultimate Plus edition, calling it mind-boggling. While acknowledging that heavy FUT players might find value, they noted that recent football game releases have received mixed reviews. They personally prefer older titles like PES 2016 and FIFA 17, which are now cheap on physical media, highlighting the benefits of disc-based gaming.
The Witcher 3 Replay and Remake Sales Insights
Reader Simon shared their experience replaying The Witcher 3, praising its dark storytelling and Gwent but criticizing the Ciri sections. They expressed hope that The Witcher 4 will improve on these aspects. Meanwhile, another reader, Focus, analyzed the best-selling remakes list, noting that The Last Of Us Part 1 sold well despite seeming pointless to hardcore gamers. They highlighted Dead Space as a surprising case: EA called it a flop and dropped the franchise, yet it sold over 4 million copies, far exceeding the original's 1 million. This illustrates the disconnect between publisher expectations and gamer desires.
Sony's PSN Outage and Indie Gems
Reader Kimble criticized Sony's handling of a recent PSN outage, where the company remained silent, reinforcing a perception that Sony dislikes its customers. They suggested that Xbox has an opportunity to offer a real alternative. Another reader, Alucard, praised indie games Rubinite and Dive Or Die: Children Of Rain on Steam, highlighting their unique mechanics and dark themes. Rubinite blends Zelda-like exploration with Soulsborne action, while Dive Or Die combines survival, Lovecraftian horror, and base management. Alucard argued that indie gaming thrives on imagination and skill, free from the pressure of mass sales.
Inbox Also-Rans: Forza, Assassin's Creed, and More
Reader Korbie questioned whether Microsoft might cancel Forza Horizon 6 for PlayStation 5, given the lack of marketing since exclusivity announcements. Another reader, Toad, speculated on the next Assassin's Creed remake after Black Flag's success, hoping for Assassin's Creed 2. GameCentral noted that only rumors of a first game remake exist, but Ubisoft's plans may shift.
