Should PlayStation get in bed with Nintendo?
The Friday letters page worries about GTA 6 interfering with the launch of the Switch 2, as one reader looks forward to Two Point Museum. To join in with the discussions yourself, email gamecentral@metro.co.uk.
Semi-multiformat
It is interesting to see Sony’s attitude towards Lego Horizon Adventures on Nintendo Switch, where they have chosen not to publish it and instead have someone else do it. This decision may seem petty and a waste of time and money, but it is very much in line with what you would expect from Sony.
Unlike Xbox games appearing on PlayStation 5, there may not be a strong argument for putting PlayStation 5 games on Xbox Series X/S. Sony may not want to do anything that legitimizes Xbox, especially since the console is not performing well enough to make it a priority.
However, the Switch 2 presents a potentially different situation. If the console is successful, there may be no reason not to bring all PlayStation games to it. While the Switch 2 may not have the same graphics capabilities as the PlayStation 5, Sony can still position themselves as the best place to play their games. There is a significant opportunity for revenue on a Nintendo console.
It remains to be seen if Sony is too proud to pursue this route, or if Lego Horizon Adventures was simply Lego’s idea. From a financial standpoint, it makes sense to explore this possibility.
Course correction
The new trailer for Dragon Age: The Veilguard was a vast improvement over the initial reveal. It is commendable that EA recognized the mistake and made the necessary adjustments. However, one cannot help but wonder how such a misstep occurred in the first place. Who thought it was a good idea to present Dragon Age in a style reminiscent of Overwatch?
While the intention may have been to attract new players, it is unlikely that anyone would be convinced by a trailer that does not accurately reflect the actual game. Publishers often make these types of errors, where fans can easily spot the inconsistencies. The key difference in this case is that the mistake was acknowledged and rectified promptly.
Growth market
It is exciting to hear about the numerous horror games set to release in October. However, the decision to remake Until Dawn raises questions. With the term “remake” being misused frequently, one wonders if a remaster would suffice. Are there truly fans of Until Dawn who cannot enjoy the game on PlayStation 4?
Until Dawn was known for its impressive graphics on the PlayStation 4, and it likely still holds up today. The choice to remake it may seem unnecessary, especially when considering the success of franchises like Resident Evil. Sony may be investing time and resources into a project that could have been better utilized in developing new indie games.
Companies often express concerns about growth while fixating on nostalgia-driven projects that primarily appeal to existing fans. It is worth considering whether these efforts are truly conducive to expansion in the gaming market.
Opposites attract
One concern regarding the Switch 2 is its potential release around the same time as GTA 6. The highly anticipated game is expected to dominate discussions in the gaming world. If rumors about GTA 5 appearing on the next Nintendo console are true, it may raise concerns among players.
Many individuals, myself included, have extensively played GTA Online on PlayStation 3 and have reservations about revisiting it due to issues with cheaters and hackers. Unless Nintendo can address these concerns effectively, the prospect of GTA 5 on the Switch 2 may not be well-received.
Charm offensive
Although it may not have been a traditional hype-filled E3 presentation, the recent announcement on the PlayStation Blog has garnered attention. The charming game, The Plucky Squire, is set to release on PS Plus Extra and Premium on September 17th. With a lineup including titles like Astro Bot and The Legend Of Zelda: Echoes Of Wisdom, gamers are in for a treat.
It is worth noting that The Plucky Squire is not announced for last-gen Sony and Microsoft consoles, despite its availability on the Switch. This discrepancy raises questions about the decision-making process behind platform compatibility.
Obeying the rules
There is ongoing speculation about which Xbox game will make its way to PlayStation 5 next. Many believe that a significant title is on the horizon, with Forza Horizon being a strong contender. Given its favorable reviews and unique gameplay, the introduction of Forza Horizon to PlayStation 5 makes sense.
Microsoft’s approach to multiformat games has sparked confusion among players. It is crucial for the company to clarify its strategy and establish clear guidelines for future releases. Whether it involves a specific timeline or franchise exclusivity, transparency is key to building trust with the gaming community.
Still kicking
The crowdfunding campaign for KoRobo, the spiritual successor to Chibi-Robo!, is nearing its goal. The project’s success demonstrates the continued interest in nostalgic titles and indie games. Additionally, the availability of games like Cocoon on sale highlights the importance of strategic purchasing decisions in the gaming industry.
In space no one can hear you sneak
The upcoming release of Alien: Romulus has generated excitement among fans of the franchise. Drawing comparisons to Alien Isolation, the game’s success will likely hinge on its ability to capture the essence of the original films. The blend of stealth gameplay and suspenseful storytelling is crucial in creating an immersive gaming experience.
The Alien franchise has a rich history of combining horror with sci-fi elements, making it a popular choice for game adaptations. The success of Alien Isolation showcased the potential for engaging narratives within the Alien universe. As fans eagerly anticipate Alien: Romulus, there is an expectation for the game to deliver on the legacy of the iconic films.
In summary, the gaming industry is poised for exciting developments with potential collaborations between major consoles, remakes of beloved titles, and innovative gameplay experiences. As players eagerly await the release of new titles and updates, it is essential for developers and publishers to remain attentive to fan feedback and industry trends. By staying responsive to player preferences and market demands, the gaming landscape can continue to evolve and thrive.
