Gait Games

**The Ascendancy of PC Gaming in Japan: A Transformation in the Gaming Arena**

Japan has been well-known for its dynamic gaming sector, primarily led by local creators and hardware from heavyweights like Nintendo and Sony. Traditionally, console gaming has served as the foundation of the market, with even international entities like Microsoft encountering hurdles in achieving substantial penetration. Nonetheless, recent developments suggest a transition, particularly in the thriving PC gaming domain, which has experienced considerable growth in the past few years.

According to a report by Japan’s Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association (CESA), the earnings from PC gaming in Japan have skyrocketed by over 234 percent within just four years, exceeding 300 billion yen for the first time in 2025, up from 132.1 billion yen in 2021. This surge stands in stark contrast to the relatively stagnant mobile gaming sector, which recorded only a 4.5 percent revenue increase during the same timeframe.

The evolving landscape can be linked to the growing impact of international gaming brands and an expanding streaming culture via platforms such as Twitch and YouTube. Popular games, particularly multiplayer titles and internationally acclaimed hits like *Minecraft*, have bolstered the rising interest in PC gaming. The highest-ranking games on Steam in Japan include global free-to-play titles such as *Counter-Strike 2*, *PUBG: Battlegrounds*, and *Apex Legends*, with only Capcom’s *Monster Hunter Wilds* representing domestic content among the leading twelve.

Despite the prevalence of mobile gaming, which still comprises 71 percent of the total gaming revenue, PC gaming has expanded to hold 12 percent of the market, doubling from merely 6 percent in 2021. This newfound recognition of PC gaming signifies a generational shift, particularly among younger gamers who are more willing to explore a varied range of gaming platforms and experiences.

Furthermore, the rising income in the PC sector has motivated more Japanese developers to broaden their portfolios by releasing games on PC, an area that was previously neglected by many. Although the potential impact of recent AI-driven price hikes for crucial hardware remains a worry, the trend points to a promising outlook for PC gaming in Japan.

In summary, the expansion of PC gaming in Japan marks a significant transformation in the nation’s gaming landscape. As global titles gain more prominence and Japanese gamers increasingly pursue new gaming experiences, this shift marks an exhilarating new chapter for both developers and gamers in Japan.

Multiple significant *Final Fantasy XIV* modding communities have initiated efforts to eliminate the contributions of a well-known not-safe-for-work mod creator following the revelation of chat logs where the modder was involved in explicit discussions regarding illegal material.

**Content warning for discussion of child abuse sexual assault material (CSAM)**

On YouTube, a user known as Chunni Doll uploaded a video claiming that modder Noffletoff, along with various other *Final Fantasy XIV* players, was partaking in discussions and sharing of CSAM. The video asserts that the chats occurred in an invite-only chat room that belonged to a broader Matrix server focused on loli/shotacon content. (Matrix servers, sometimes seen as an alternative to Discord, are decentralized platforms enabling real-time communication.)

Accompanying the video was a Proton document containing screenshots of the chat logs. *Kotaku* has examined the document, and although direct mentions of victims’ names and explicit CSAM content descriptions have been obscured, the purported participants can be observed referencing content they’ve viewed and possibly sharing materials with users on another platform named Session.

Matrix administrators were informed about the server, which was subsequently shut down, leading to the banning of the alleged participants.

Noffletoff is known for several paid *Final Fantasy XI* body and animation mods that are widely utilized for creating NSFW *FFXIV* content. In response to these allegations, numerous *FFXIV* modding communities are actively removing his work from their sites. Additionally, Noffletoff’s Patreon and X accounts have been deleted.

The *Final Fantasy XIV* Mod Archive (XMA), one of the prominent hosting platforms for *FFXIV* mods, has prohibited the account linked to Noffletoff. *Kotaku* has reviewed messages posted in the XMA Discord server that confirm Noffletoff’s suspension, a measure confirmed by a moderator after a user inquired about the actions being taken in light of the allegations. “I think it’s reasonable at this point to go ahead and suspend Noff’s account (and have done so),” the post stated.

*Kotaku* has also looked over messages in Booty Bay, a Discord server related to pirating *FFXIV* mods. The moderators of that Discord server have enacted similar measures, removing his mods from their collections while banning him from future uploads and forbidding all discussions pertaining to the allegations against Noffletoff.

Snowcloak, a *Final Fantasy XIV* mod program that enables users to view mods from other players in-game, will prevent the display of Noffletoff’s mods. “Users attempting to use these mods will receive a warning that the file is blocked,” noted a message from a Snowcloak moderator.

According to the video, the alleged participants have been reported to law enforcement. *Kotaku* has reached out to Square Enix for a statement.

### The Delight of Farm Share Programs and the Wonder of Homegrown Tomatoes

In recent times, the appeal of farm share programs has increased dramatically as individuals look for fresher, more flavorful produce. By investing in a regional farm, participants not only bolster sustainable farming but also relish an abundance of seasonal fruits and vegetables. This article delves into the advantages of joining a farm share, the transformative journey of enjoying fresh produce, and the unique pleasures of homegrown tomatoes.

#### What is a Farm Share Program?

A farm share program, also referred to as Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), enables consumers to purchase a share of a farm’s harvest upfront, typically in the winter months. This financial investment aids farmers as they acquire seeds and essential supplies for the growing season. In exchange, members receive a weekly box brimming with fresh, seasonal produce, usually encompassing fruits, vegetables, and occasionally flowers or herbs.

#### The Freshness Factor

One of the key benefits of farm shares is the freshness of the produce. Items picked at their optimal ripeness and delivered straight to consumers taste superior to grocery store options, which are often transported over long distances. When enjoying fresh local produce, you’re not only experiencing better flavors but also maximizing nutritional advantages.

For many, farm shares have ignited a culinary exploration. Receiving a varied selection of vegetables each week can spark creativity in the kitchen, encouraging individuals to experiment with new recipes and cooking methods. From vibrant greens to distinctive heirloom varieties, the experience broadens one’s culinary skills while fostering a deeper appreciation for seasonal eating.

#### The Tomato Experience

Among the diverse selection of produce provided, homegrown tomatoes frequently shine as a summer favorite. For those who’ve found it challenging to appreciate tomatoes in the past, the sensation of biting into a fresh, sun-ripened tomato from a local farm is transformative. Unlike the tasteless, watery tomatoes often encountered in grocery stores, farm-fresh tomatoes offer a burst of flavor and texture.

Culinary applications for fresh tomatoes are virtually limitless. They can be sliced for sandwiches, turned into rich sauces, or added to salads. Roasting them in olive oil reveals their natural sweetness, while a sprinkle of salt elevates their inherent flavors. The pleasure of enjoying a warm, freshly harvested tomato is a sensory delight cherished by many during the short tomato season.

#### A Cultural Connection

The affection for homegrown tomatoes goes beyond the culinary realm—it’s honored in music as well. Guy Clark’s song “Homegrown Tomatoes” perfectly conveys the fondness many have for this cherished fruit. The lyrics celebrate the joy and versatility of tomatoes, encapsulating the essence of summer’s bounty and the simple joys of life.

As summer dwindles and the tomato season draws to a close, there’s often a feeling of nostalgia. The diminishing presence of tomatoes in farm shares serves as a reminder of their seasonal nature, prompting consumers to savor every last bite. Whether it’s a late-summer tomato sandwich or a batch of homemade salsa, each dish is a tribute to the fleeting beauty of the season.

#### Embracing the Seasons

Taking part in a farm share program not only enhances enjoyment and appreciation for fresh produce but also connects individuals to the rhythms of nature. The excitement of seasonal harvests fosters gratitude and an understanding of the agricultural cycle.

As winter approaches, thoughts of fresh tomatoes may evoke sadness for some, yet the assurance of their return next year brings hope. The cycle of growth, harvest, and enjoyment of local produce is a never-ending story that enriches our lives.

#### Conclusion

Farm share programs present a delightful opportunity to engage with local agriculture while savoring the freshest produce available. The simple pleasures of homegrown tomatoes emphasize the incredible flavors of seasonal eating and highlight the significance of supporting local farms. As you enjoy the last tomatoes of the season, remember to cherish the moments and flavors that only arise from connecting with nature through local food systems. In the words of Guy Clark, life wouldn’t be the same without homegrown tomatoes.

**Xbox’s Corporate Transformation: Maneuvering Changes with New Leadership**

As the gaming landscape progresses, so do the tactics of key stakeholders, and Xbox is presently experiencing a considerable corporate transformation under the guidance of new CEO Asha Sharma. This transition has sparked a series of layoffs and reorganizations within Microsoft’s gaming sector, signaling a daring method towards growth and efficacy amid financial hurdles.

### Summary of the Reorganization

The so-called corporate transformation for Xbox has mainly centered on workforce reduction, with over 1,600 employees dismissed this year and plans for another 1,600 eliminations as the fiscal year moves forward. This approach appears to align with CEO Satya Nadella’s strategy for streamlining processes to improve financial results. Nadella has indicated satisfaction with the ongoing reorganization, considering it a crucial step to prepare Xbox for future achievements.

### Tactical Divestitures and Restructuring

The reorganization has involved considerable alterations, including the divestiture from several game studios and the restructuring of franchises. A significant change has seen the beloved franchise *Halo* shifted under Activision’s control. This reallocation raises inquiries about the long-term strategy for Xbox’s game catalog and how it plans to preserve its competitive advantage in a saturated market.

### Financial Viability Issues

Despite the positive perspective on Xbox’s Intellectual Property (IP), Nadella has recognized worries regarding the financial viability of the division. He stressed the importance of establishing a sustainable business framework that would allow Xbox to broaden its appeal to a larger audience. His comments indicate a level of concern about the current financial path of the gaming division and spotlight the balancing act between invention and profitability.

Nadella commented on the IP portfolio’s capacity, stating, “I feel fantastic about the IP we have right now… our ability to then take that and produce great games going forward.” However, the lack of compassion for the dismissed employees underscores a harsh reality where corporate objectives take precedence over individual welfare.

### Bold Growth Objectives

Under Sharma’s guidance, Xbox has set an ambitious aim to engage over a billion users daily. This aspiration arises amidst existing challenges, particularly the declining sales of Xbox consoles and the necessity for heightened user interaction across various platforms, including mobile and cloud gaming. The gap between the current reach—around 500 million monthly active users—and the target of a billion daily users generates doubt regarding the practicality of such aims, especially with a diminished workforce.

### Closing Thoughts

The ongoing reorganization of Xbox signifies a pivotal moment for the brand, positioned at the crossroads of innovation and austerity measures. While there is hope regarding the potential of its IP and prospective game creation, the journey ahead will necessitate careful management of both personnel and corporate strategy. As Xbox endeavors to fulfill its lofty growth ambitions, it remains to be determined whether this transformation will deliver the expected outcomes in a progressively competitive gaming environment.

### The Prudent Strategy for AI in Game Development: Perspectives from Nippon Ichi Software

As the gaming sector experiences a growing trend of companies welcoming AI-generated material, Nippon Ichi Software distinguishes itself with a more cautious approach. Famous for games like *Disgaea* and acting as the publisher for cherished series such as *Trails* and *Ys*, Nippon Ichi is cautiously maneuvering through the shifting terrain of game development.

#### The Significance of Localization

In a recent discussion at PAX West, Kenzo Saruhashi, the CEO of Nippon Ichi and president of NIS America, provided insights into the company’s beliefs concerning AI. After a conversation about the challenges surrounding localization and translation, Saruhashi underlined the necessity for the company to improve its localization processes to achieve a more coordinated global release schedule. Aiming to minimize the gap between Japanese and Western launches, the company recognizes that efficient localization is vital for appealing to a broader audience.

#### Exploring AI Applications

While the charm of generative AI in accelerating tasks like localization is enticing, Saruhashi affirmed that Nippon Ichi is presently not employing AI for this function. Instead, the firm is in a research phase, investigating how AI could be utilized while making certain that the quality of their output is not compromised. Saruhashi mentioned, “We want to make sure that we can ensure the quality is there at the same time if we were to use it.” This careful approach reflects an awareness that simply adopting AI does not ensure gains in efficiency or quality.

#### A Wider View on AI in the Creative Sector

Saruhashi recognized the widespread pressure felt throughout the creative sector owing to the ascendancy of AI. Interacting with fellow developers, he noted a shared feeling: the primary aim remains to create high-caliber games for fans. This indicates that while AI should be contemplated, its usage should enhance the quality of the game rather than just expedite the production process. “The best way to do so would be in a way that actually improves the quality of the game,” Saruhashi expressed, promoting a balanced perspective on AI in development.

#### Doubts and Future Pathways

Even though numerous companies are embarking on their AI initiatives through research endeavors, industry skeptics urge caution with these advancements. As the Japanese gaming landscape shifts to embrace more generative AI, Nippon Ichi’s methodology underscores a crucial discussion within the industry regarding the role AI ought to play. With continuous research being conducted without immediate adoption, fans of the company’s titles can keep anticipating high-quality games, without anxieties over hastily integrated AI features.

In conclusion, as Nippon Ichi Software thoughtfully evaluates the incorporation of AI, it strikes a balance between innovation and a firm dedication to quality, ensuring they stay attuned to the changing dynamics of the gaming realm while prioritizing player experiences.

Earlier this week, trademarks were spotted over at the European Union Intellectual Property Office for a videogame or videogame-related Something called ‘Wonders of O’. The trademarks were registered by South Korean company Neowiz, who also happen to be the publishers of excellent puppet-powered soulslike Lies of P.

Given the shared title format, online sleuthyfolks have wasted no time identifying the project as the Lies of P sequel developers Round 8 teased back in 2024, alongside an untitled horror game.

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**Kenzo Saruhashi and the Outlook on Physical Game Discs: Perspectives from PAX West**

Kenzo Saruhashi, the CEO of Nippon Ichi Software and the recently appointed president of NIS America, is navigating a crucial juncture in the gaming sector following Sony’s latest announcement to cease the production of physical game discs by 2028. While numerous industry executives harbor reservations about this decision, Saruhashi remains hopeful about identifying a solution that could be advantageous for his company, renowned for its intricate physical limited editions of games.

In a revealing dialogue at PAX West, Saruhashi underscored the significance of physical editions for NIS America, clarifying that they are fundamental to the company’s business strategy. “A major aspect of our business model, particularly with NISA, is creating our physical limited editions,” he expressed, reaffirming the company’s dedication to providing premium products to its clientele.

Nippon Ichi Software boasts a track record of releasing not only standard physical iterations of their titles but also devising distinctive limited-edition packages that frequently incorporate extra items, appealing to both collectors and enthusiasts. Though the company momentarily entertained alternatives with the launch of game key cards for the Nintendo Switch 2, audience feedback revealed a stronger inclination towards conventional formats. This transition highlights the hurdles and expectations related to physical media in a progressively digital landscape.

When asked about the potential introduction of a “code in the box” format after 2028, Saruhashi recognized this possibility. Nonetheless, he indicated that it might not be the exclusive direction ahead. “In our dialogues with Sony… they’re absorbing a lot of the feedback from consumers,” he remarked, suggesting that ongoing talks could pave the way for alternative solutions that retain some form of physical distribution.

The sentiment articulated by Saruhashi alludes to a wider conversation within the industry. Recent reports indicate that Sony is proactively connecting with game developers via surveys to collect feedback on the sale of physical games, which might imply that the company is reassessing its strategy in response to developer and consumer pushback.

While conjecture surrounds the future of physical game discs, it appears improbable that Sony will completely reverse its decision. Instead, there may be room for limited collaborations that would enable companies like Nippon Ichi to manufacture small batches of physical discs for special editions. Until formal announcements are released, the gaming community and developers must stay alert and adaptable to these shifts.

In summary, Kenzo Saruhashi’s perspectives provide insight into the changing dynamics of the gaming industry. As a prominent figure in both Nippon Ichi Software and NIS America, he embodies an optimistic outlook that despite the hurdles posed by a more digital marketplace, there continues to be a committed demand for physical game experiences. The forthcoming years will surely influence how companies navigate the balance between innovation and tradition in the gaming sphere.

The European Commission are reportedly set to propose new rules around how under 15s access the likes of social media, AI chatbots, and online video games. Dubbed the EU Kids Act, the proposed legislation in its current form demands the setting up of a tiered system governing the types of accounts children under 15 can create to access such services. As with the UK’s Online Safety Act, that’d result in the rolling out of age verification hoops everyone has to jump through to access these allegedly risky platforms.

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**RuneScape: Dragonwilds – A Varied Reception on Switch 2**

After spending time in Early Access on Steam, *RuneScape: Dragonwilds* officially launched on consoles last week, coinciding with a significant 1.0 update. While players on PS5 and Xbox have given a warm reception, feedback from Nintendo’s Switch 2 has been notably less positive, raising worries about graphical quality.

Upon its debut on Switch 2, players promptly expressed their disappointment regarding the game’s visual performance. Comments have pointed out problems like blurry graphics and a subpar graphical presentation, especially concerning shadows and lighting effects. Although many players recognized that the game maintains a stable framerate, overall visual fidelity has not met expectations, particularly when viewed on larger displays.

In response to these issues, developer Jagex released a public statement on Twitter addressing the concerns from Switch 2 players. The studio admitted that the current visual quality of the game does not align with their own standards or those of the Nintendo community they intend to support. “The Switch 2 build is not at our desired visual standard today,” Jagex mentioned, underscoring their dedication to enhancing the graphical experience for players on this platform.

While Jagex expressed approval of the game’s framerate on the Switch 2, they outlined their intentions to improve image clarity and revamp the game engine. However, they cautioned that these enhancements would be rolled out as incremental updates rather than a single solution, stating, “It will take time… expect this to be delivered through multiple patches in the future.”

In light of the disparity between the in-game visuals and the promotional content available on the Nintendo eShop, Jagex has acted to address this issue by supplying newly developed assets that more accurately illustrate the game’s current visual quality.

As the developer aims to improve *Dragonwilds* on the Switch 2 platform, they remain dedicated to providing a gaming experience that is both enjoyable and visually stimulating, similar to its counterparts on other consoles. Jagex wrapped up their message by encouraging players to keep offering their feedback, assuring the community of their commitment to enhancing the game as they move beyond the initial launch.

In summary, while *RuneScape: Dragonwilds* receives a favorable response on other platforms, its experience on the Switch 2 underscores the difficulties of maintaining consistent visual quality across various hardware, a challenge that Jagex is diligently working on in the upcoming weeks and months.

Each time you start a new campaign in Afterworld, Paradox’s upcoming post-apocalyptic grand strategy game, a tiny virtual historian cracks their knuckles and gets to work writing a new 200-year history for what happened to North America in the dying days of the great war.

They will decide where the great powers fired their nuclear-tipped missiles, where they released their clouds of flesh-eating nanites, where they dropped their lung-bubbling chemical weapons, and they will decide who survived and who died. These procedural changes should mean that each time you start a new game of Afterworld, the map will be dramatically different from the last.

That flexibility to rewrite the surface of Afterworld is vital, game director Dan Lind tells me, “Otherwise it undermines a lot of the exploration”.

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