In a recent collaboration between Ubisoft and The New York Times, a weak af effort was made trying to shift the narrative surrounding the increasing controversy of Assassin’s Creed Shadows... But what's been uncovered regarding Sweet Baby Inc's involvement just blew this wide open!

The insane asylum reject who married herself is, this time, armed with a brand-new consultancy business aimed at "inclusive video game design support services."

Shocker, right?

But let’s call it what it really is: Yet another attempt to warp the gaming industry by literally inventing problems that don't exist and pushing her agenda onto unsuspecting developers... all in the name of making a quick buck.

A History of Destruction

If you've been following gaming news over the past decade, you know that Sarkeesian’s involvement doesn't lead to anything positive for the gamers. What started as what some could argue was seemingly noble cause — advocating for better representation of women in games — quickly spiraled into a divisive crusade. Gamers everywhere watched as their favorite games were dissected, analyzed, and criticized not for their gameplay or story but for perceived "problematic" content that most players didn’t even care about. This is the epicenter of virus that laid the groundwork for consultancy companies like Sweet Baby Inc. to fester.

Now, she’s back, ready to wreak more havoc. Sarkeesian’s new "consultancy" promises to help game developers "eliminate problematic dialogue", "modernize historically problematic content" and "craft complex, authentic characters." But... what does this really mean for gamers? More censorship, more homogenization of stories, and more politically motivated content that ends up ruining the fun... Because controversy breeds dollar bills if you can make a game company feel like they'll be canceled if they refuse to participate.

Inventing Problems, Offering Solutions

Sarkeesian’s playbook is simple: invent problems, then swoop in to "fix" them.

She thrives on finding issues where none exist, creating a narrative that video games are riddled with sexism, racism, and other forms of 'oppression'. Her website offers services like “eliminating problematic player actions” — vague enough to sound like progress but ultimately... translating to more restrictions on creative freedom. Games have been around long before her "help" and no one had a problem, until some folks found a way to monetize 'being offended'.

Tim Schafer's glowing endorsement of Anita Sarkeesian's input on Psychonauts 2 shows just how deeply he was duped into believing her so-called "insights" were valuable. He praised her for identifying "blind spots" that supposedly prevented the game from being harmful...? Huh? Let's face it - in reality, these issues were non-existent. Sarkeesian's talent for convincing developers that they're stepping into "bear traps" is nothing more than a strategy to insert unnecessary revisions based on fabricated or exaggerated social critiques. Schafer, like many others, fell into the trap of believing he was making a more inclusive product, when in truth... he was allowing his creative vision to be derailed by needless interventions of an activist!

I don't want to speak for everyone but at the same time I think it's safe to say on this one that we don't want someone like Anita Sarkeesian coming in and telling us that our favorite games are offensive. Gamers want good stories, fun gameplay, and the ability to immerse themselves in a world that isn't weighed down by political agendas. Sarkeesian, however, is determined to inject her ideology into every aspect of game development, claiming that she’s helping to "broaden audiences."

Inclusive to ...Whom?

Sarkeesian’s pitch is all about making games "more inclusive," but the real question is, inclusive to whom? The majority of gamers are perfectly happy with the diversity they see in today’s games. Literally NO ONE who actually games is asking for this. Many popular titles already feature strong female protagonists, complex characters of different races, and inclusive storylines. But no - that’s not enough for Sarkeesian. Her "consultancy" aims to tear apart anything that doesn’t fit her narrow vision of what gaming "should" look like.

Terms like "holistic integration of diverse identities" and "removing problematic player actions" sound more like a checklist of things that alienate actual gamers rather than anything to genuinely improve games. It’s clear that her focus isn’t on what makes games fun or engaging. Instead, it’s about checking boxes, making developers feel guilty for not being politically correct enough, and ultimately ruining the experience for the players.

Who's Buying This?

The real kicker? Sarkeesian claims to have worked with clients ranging from AAA to indie developers. She’s positioned herself as the go-to voice for "modernizing" games - you know, for that nonexistent MODERN audience? — but if history is any indication, the developers who take her advice only end up alienating their audiences.

Her vague list of services — like "deepening character development" and "eliminating problematic dialogue" — sounds like a nightmare for game creators who value any sort of artistic freedom. By imposing her standards, she risks turning every game into a sanitized, watered-down product that lacks the edge and creativity that makes gaming so unique.

The Real Impact

In reality, Anita Sarkeesian’s return to the gaming industry isn’t about helping developers. It’s about continuing her mission to shape the narrative, to convince the world that the gaming industry is in dire need of reform. The truth? Games don’t need Sarkeesian’s brand of "fixing." Gamers don’t want someone telling them their favorite games are problematic. They want innovation, creativity, and freedom. The very things "consultancy" firms destroy.

Sarkeesian’s consultancy will only lead to more censorship, more restrictions, and less of what makes gaming great. Devs should be wary of her influence, as history has shown that everything she touches tends to turn to dust. If her past endeavors are anything to go by, this latest venture will be yet another step into making the gaming industry worse for everyone involved.

Games have never, EVER, "Needed" Anita Sarkeesian. They need to be free from agenda-driven interference. Let’s hope developers realize it... before it’s too late.

~Smash

Has to make you wonder...

I'm constantly impressed by the sheer amount of awful human beings that continue to infiltrate the game industry. At times, it feels limitless...

In a now-deleted post on her now-private (because of course) Twitter, Marina Díez, an advisor for the Game Developers Conference (YIKES) and the CEO of 3ofCups Games/Principal Game Designer for BTF Games, caused quite the stir... to put it nicely - with her statements specifically targeting white men.

Díez wrote on X:

She added in a follow-up

The inflammatory language of these posts sparked a firestorm across the industry, with former World of Warcraft Team Lead Mark Kern (@Grummz) sharing the post before it was deleted.

Additional screenshots shared by ThatParkPlace captured Díez’s statements that are equally damning, as her approach here to the industry is nothing new. They provide a snapshot of the growing tensions within the gaming community, especially when it comes to issues of diversity, inclusion, and perceived hostility toward certain groups...

A Pattern of Comments

Díez’s remarks aren't an isolated incident. Over time, she's made similar concerning statements about white men specifically, continuing a theme of expressing disdain toward them in the context of the gaming industry. Makes you wonder what happened to her in her personal life to hate white men this much, as there is a lot of harbored anger pent up inside her...

In April, Díez posted

A few weeks later, she said:

3ofCups Games

Her 3ofCups Games website describes the company as “an ethical, diverse and inclusive games studio based in London, UK.”

The mission statement continues, “We believe that we can help to change the world through games... But above all, we believe in people.” However... her public comments present a far more exclusionary attitude, specifically aimed against white men, which, I dunno about you guys, but... seems a BIT hypocritical.

The "Manifesto"

Then we have the 3OfCups "Manifesto" - and Díez’s tweets stand in stark contrast to the supposed values outlined in the manifesto of her company. The manifesto emphasizes a commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and respect for all individuals, regardless of identity. It says they promote creating fair, accessible, and socially responsible games, alongside fostering a workplace free of harassment and discrimination. Apparently that has some... strings attached.

Why is it always the projection with these types? They harbor such inner turmoil that they pretend they're holier than thou just to preach the exact opposite as soon as they get the chance. Díez's public tweets targeting white men seem... hypocritical when compared to the studio’s stated goals of empathy and understanding, highlighting a pretty big disconnect here between her actions and the inclusive ideals her company claims to uphold...

The Broader Impact on the Industry

Marina Díez’s comments, though targeted and personal, represent a broader discussion taking place within the gaming world about the role of diversity, inclusivity, and the changing dynamics of the industry.

While inclusivity has clearly become a key focus for many developers, there's a growing concern that the hard push for diversity is alienating others, ironically, almost a way to 'replace' who is in the industry with the people they want...

Creating a Divided Community

Díez’s aggressive tweets come at a time when the gaming community is already feeling the strain of ideological divides. Unfortunately, while companies and individuals like Díez push for more inclusive practices, the reality is, the exact opposite continues to actually happen.

Her "efforts" are just creating a new form of exclusion. Ironic...

Grummz, who brought attention to Díez’s post, has thankfully been vocal in calling out instances where inclusivity appears to cross the line into hostility. His sharing of this incident has sparked a wider conversation about the balance between inclusivity and respectful dialogue within the industry... and that - is a great thing.

The Fallout

Marina Díez’s comments have exposed just how bad the rot inside the gaming industry really is, with organizations like GDC openly supporting her and her approach. The language she's used to express her frustrations is something that should NOT be championed in the video game industry. There is no place for such hate.

Credit to Grummz for the heads-up on this unfolding situation, and to ThatParkPlace for the quick work snagging the screenshots before she took her account private in the industry’s ongoing culture wars.

~Smash

It's no secret that Kotaku has quite the habit of launching attacks on literally anything that doesn’t fit their agenda, and this time is no different. They've set their sights on the unexpected success of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2.

Following the EXTREMELY viral comment by Saber Interactive CEO Matthew Karch on Asmongold's video, Kotaku, spearheaded by "journalist" Ethan Gach (known on X as @AmericanTruckSongs9), tries his darndest to cast doubt on the game's achievements by questioning the 'authenticity' of Karch's statements.

While on the surface, this would be credible journalism, knowing what we know - there's a definite desired outcome in mind as you'll see...

Ethan Gach's initial tweet is a prime example of how a seemingly straightforward inquiry can be weaponized to discredit someone. Gach tweeted:

Notice the framing here—Gach isn't just skeptical; he's openly antagonistic, dismissing Karch's comment on the video as "anti-woke crusader slop" - Who tf phrases it like that?

This isn't journalism; it's a smear job dressed up as a query. Outside of dressing like the opposite sex, it's honestly... what Kotaku does best.

The viral comment in question here criticized the trend of games "imposing morals on gamers" - a sentiment that definitely struck a chord with many players fed up with the current state of the industry. My initial video covering this went crazy, and we ate it up!

Gach immediately moved to undermine the legitimacy of the statement by trying to point out that the YouTube account (https://www.youtube.com/@MatthewKarch) was created in May (below) and had a bio reading "generic male of sorts."

While others are claiming the REAL account is this one: (https://www.youtube.com/@matthewkarch4481) (below) and that did NOT comment on Asmongold's video.

So Ethan, feeling empowered by this "lack of" info, followed up with another tweet:

While Gach positions his "investigation" here as a quest for truth, his approach reveals the real intent: to discredit and quickly dismiss the views expressed by Matthew Karch. On the surface, questioning the authenticity of a statement is a valid journalistic practice that I wouldn't bat an eyue at... HOWEVER, a deeper dive reveals a far more insidious motivation.

A thorough journalist would go beyond surface-level skepticism and investigate further, something Kotaku seems unwilling or incapable of doing—likely because the facts don't support their narrative.

So let me do the work that Ethan left out: while the YouTube account may appear on the surface new and unofficial, the message aligns perfectly with Karch's known views on the gaming industry. Karch has been vocal about his disdain for the direction in which the industry is heading, as evidenced by his recent post on LinkedIn, where he echoed the same exact frustrations and calls for change.

In the post above, Karch speaks candidly about finding partners with "the resources to help Saber grow" and "changing the way we make and deliver games." He slammed the "Jurassic era of bloated budgets and risk-laden releases," a sentiment that clearly mirrors the same exact comment on Asmongold's video.

Pair that with the other comment from the writer Oliver Hollis-Leick on the same video... it doesn't take sherlock holmes to figure this one out, Ethan... As much as it may pain you to admit.

Kotaku's glaring omission of this LinkedIn post, or ...even a deeper analysis of it, either shows a lack of due diligence or an intentional exclusion of evidence that doesn't fit their agenda. This could easily be an alternative account for Karch, given the near-identical stance and tone between the YouTube comment and his professional statements. But instead of exploring this angle, Kotaku sticks to their preferred narrative: smearing anyone who dares to challenge the status quo or questions the current industry's trends around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

Cut to the chase - the reality here is that Matthew Karch isn't afraid to speak his mind, and his frustration with the industry's direction has resonated with so many gamers who feel similarly alienated by the current trend of pushing social and moral messages in games. Kotaku's attempt to frame Karch's statements as "anti-woke crusader slop" is a transparent effort to delegitimize a perspective that doesn’t align with their worldview... and in their rush, ironically, tosses their argument even further in the rear view.

Let's be clear: Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 deserves our support, not because of some 'perceived cultural war', but because it's a game made by developers who genuinely want to bring fun and immersive experiences back to gaming. Karch's comments reflect a commitment to innovation, creativity, and most importantly, to those who want to escape into compelling gameplay rather than be lectured by a constant agenda.

Kotaku's efforts to smear the game's success following Matthew Karch’s viral comment only further prove just how insanely out of touch they are with what gamers truly want... And while they busy themselves with trying to undermine the game's achievements, the rest of us rally behind developers like Karch, and those willing to stand up for a return to games that are about fun, not agendas.

So, let's celebrate Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 and the chad CEO behind it, and continue to support those who dare to challenge the industry's beyond-tired 'status quo'.

~Smash

IGN has a serious 7/10 problem. It feels like the outlet hands out 7s as if they were free party favors, leaving me wondering if they're even playing the games they're reviewing.

Obviously, yeah, I'm sure they have the code and turn the games on... but what actually goes INTO the score, because if anything, it doesn't feel like its the game itself...

The (especially recent) trend over there with handing out 7/10's has become all too frequent, and it’s concerning to see universally praised 'quality' titles and... well, let's be honest - junk being lumped together with the same score. No real gamers take their reviews seriously anymore, and it’s time we explain to IGN why, if they care to change their brand around to regain the trust of gamers again (they won't - but hey, it's an interesting topic so I'm going to dive in anyways).

Let’s be clear: reviews are and always will be subjective. No two players will have the exact same experience with a game, and that’s okay. But I also feel like that statement is used all too frequently as a get-out-of jail card for missteps and pushing an agenda.

When IGN originally rated Lollipop Chainsaw a 5/10 back in 2012, and now - refuses to even re-review the remake today, it raises eyebrows. Why refuse to re-evaluate it in today’s context? The answer's staring us right in the face—they’d HAVE TO rate the remaster a 7, of course. It fits their pattern. If they didn't... well... There'd be even more backlash:

Just look at how IGN rated both Concord and Dustborn—two games plagued with issues and propaganda—a 7/10, back-to-back. Yet, we're supposed to believe they're reviewing games honestly, providing feedback to gamers to help them make informed decisions?

When a game is on the edge—teetering between good and bad—IGN seems to take the safest route every single time, landing at a 7. When a game is inherently bad, but pushes the right message? 7/10. When a game is great, but doesn't align ideologically or has a lack of DEI? 7/10. It's become so predictable that... it's laughable.

Just watch - the DEI slop mess of Tales of the Shire will absolutely get a 7/10 as well because... It's "Cozy" like a warm hug!

The latest example is The Plucky Squire, a game that received near-universal acclaim from almost every other outlet, with scores of 9/10 or even 10/10.

But IGN? Nope. They gave it a 7/10. And you have to wonder, are they even playing these games?

This pattern isn’t just annoying; it’s damaging. When you see a mix of truly great games and objectively flawed ones all receiving the same middling score, it erodes the trust of the very audience you'd think they wanted to garner. Are there incentives behind the scenes pushing the scores of games like Dustborn & Concord up? Or... is it that the reviewer agrees with the game's messaging, acting more like an activist than an unbiased critic? After all, we’ve seen more than a few examples where personal politics seep into reviews, and the objectivity of the reviewer is called into question.

IGN’s problem is bigger than just an over-reliance on the number 7...

It’s about credibility, or rather - the lack of it. If they genuinely care about their brand and their standing in the gaming community, the change must begin with earning the trust of players again. That means honest reviews, clear reasoning for their scores, and a step back from the all-too-safe 7 that has become their crutch. Imagine if they were forced to not use the number 7 moving forward. Just remove it from the scorecard. Seeing as 7 is the safest bet to dodge criticism, how about they remove it and score a game a 6 or an 8, forcing them to pick a side. They won't do that, of course... but again, this all circles back to how personal politics and political agendas have seeped so deep into the games industry that the very people meant to score the games care more about a political agenda.

Equally concerning is whenever they seem to stray from that 7 to go higher into the 9's or 10's, we see a convenient advertisement promoted on the very page calling IGN out for their glorious review. Now, I'm not saying there's a definitive connection here with shady dealing going on in the background... but it's certainly sus af, and at the very least, a huge conflict of interest... This kinda stuff harkens back to what was happening back with the original Gamergate, exchanging favors for high scores from journos. Retaining an unbiased approach is paramount, but ironically, how can you be unbiased if a review is supposed to be personal, and each person inherently has a bias? Catch 22...

See, for example: The image below, where Square Enix is paying to promote FFXVI prominently on the IGN homepage, and even features the score. It HAS to make you at least WONDER...

Gamers are more informed now than ever before. We notice patterns, we talk to each other, and we do our own research... When I see one outlet consistently handing out the same score over and over again without much justification, I begin to ask questions. Gamers have stopped taking these reviews seriously.

So, IGN, if you’re listening: Look - I'm not trying to be a dick (though I know that's how you're going to take this...) But whatever. I don't even care anymore. It’s time you listen and break free from that 'seven' safe zone. Ditch the 7s, and give reviews that genuinely reflect the games being played. Only then can you hope to regain any semblance of credibility in the eyes of real gamers...

If it's not already too late...

~Smash

Matthew Karch, co-founder of Saber Interactive, believes the company's recent independence from Embracer Group positioned them well for success. Saber Interactive wants to thrive using a focus on producing DEI and propaganda-free games at a great value... and his latest surprise appearance in the YouTube comment section has everyone buzzing...

Hey - It's not always bad news around here... In a refreshing moment that has sent ripples through the gaming community, Matthew Karch, CEO of Saber Interactive, made a surprise appearance in the comments section of an Asmongold video titled "Space Marine 2 is a reminder of what we lost | Asmongold Reacts." His comments serve as a beacon of hope for all of us who feel the gaming industry has strayed too far into over-complicated mechanics and heavy-handed messages. Karch's words revealed that there's still a pulse of creativity and passion buried deep within the gaming industry, one that seeks to prioritize fun, immersion, and simplicity over imposed morals and convoluted narratives... But the industry has a long way to go to course-correct.

~@MatthewKarch via Youtube

Karch’s comment reflects a sentiment that we've been feeling for a while now: a yearning for a return to simpler, more straightforward games. Free of the DEI and injected political propaganda. He specifically referenced wanting to make Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II a "throwback" game, inspired by the simple yet addictive gameplay loops of classics like Halo.

Not to be outdone, the Creative Director of the game, @olihollis commented:

This in itself sold me on the game. The desire for a return to the "old school" days of gaming is something myself and many gamers have echoed for a while now, and it seems that the tide in the ongoing battle against the "woke" culture in gaming might finally be turning... But you can never ease off the gas.

A Refreshing Voice in a Stale Industry

Karch’s comment wasn't just a personal opinion; it reflected a broader industry shift that many gamers have been hoping for. He mentions his disdain for these overblown attempts at messaging and the imposition of morals on gamers that he witnessed during his time at the beleaguered Embracer Group that has been falling apart in recent years.

His focus has been on creating games that deliver pure, unfiltered fun, where we can lose ourselves in the excitement of action-packed gameplay. "We just want to do some glory kills and get the heart rate up a little," Karch said, driving home the point that, at their core, games should be about exhilaration and enjoyment, not preaching or overcomplicating propaganda.

It appears that Karch has successfully accomplished his vision here with Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II, a game that's been warmly received by the community despite its parent company, Games Workshop, having embraced the more "overblown" approach to messaging in recent years. In contrast to some of Games Workshop’s recent content that attempts to impose certain moral stances in their games, Space Marine II managed to somehow bypass the bigwigs and sidestep these pitfalls, instead - delivering a game that is straightforward, engaging, and, most importantly, fun. I know... wild theory.

A Victory for Gamers: The Numbers Speak for Themselves

The positive reception of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II is a testament to Karch's vision. The game boasts an impressive User Score of 80 on Metacritic, approaching almost 500 reviews. Among these, the vast majority are positive. Despite the challenging landscape and the pressures of modern game development, there's still a strong demand for games that prioritize player enjoyment and stay true to their roots.

This reception proves to the naysayers on this crusade that real gamers are still looking for experiences that emphasize fun and immersion without the burden of external agendas. It's proof that the gaming community still values gameplay over gimmicks, entertainment over education, and passion over politics.

The Tide Is Turning

Matthew Karch's comments reveal a shift in the gaming industry, a shift that gamers have been fighting for over the past few years. The fact that the CEO of a major gaming company would comment publicly share such candid thoughts in a YouTube comment section is proof that there's still some developers and executives who understand what gamers truly want: a return to the joy and simplicity that first drew us to video games.

Karch's words, and the success of Space Marine II, show that the tide in the battle against the "woke" in the gaming industry is turning back in our favor, reclaiming what made video games great in the first place: their ability to provide an escape, to immerse players in worlds of action and adventure, without any need to impose external narratives or morals.

As hopefully more developers take inspiration from this approach, we may yet very well see a new era of gaming that embraces the core values of fun and immersion, proving that the spirit of great game-making is far from dead. For gamers everywhere, Matthew Karch's words are a reminder that there's still hope for the future of gaming—a future that belongs to us.

~Smash

Source: Rueters

Sony has reportedly awarded a contract for the PlayStation 6’s chip to AMD, choosing the American semiconductor company due to their strong focus on backwards compatibility. This decision came after a competitive bidding process back in 2022 - that saw other major players like Broadcom & Intel eliminated from any consideration, according to sources cited by Reuters.

AMD designed the custom system on a chip (SoC) for both the PlayStation 5 and the upcoming PS5 Pro... So, they were heavily favored by Sony for the role in the development of the next-generation console, and no one is really too terribly surprised, but the reasons why did perk some ears up...

Reuters reported that Sony’s decision was largely influenced by the need to ensure a seamless transition for gamers, allowing them to continue enjoying their PlayStation 5 games on the new system. The primary concern for Sony appears to have been maintaining backward compat without incurring insane costs or diverting too many engineering resources for that part of the project. Transitioning from AMD to a different supplier, like Intel, would have risked compatibility issues... and most likely would have required a significant effort to overcome any unexpected technical hurdles.

This is a great thing too, because if the PS6 is anything like the PS5... Exclusives on the console will be hard to come by. All of this starts to make me wonder... Do we even NEED a PS6?

Add to that - concerns are growing that the PlayStation 6 could launch at a $700 price point, similar to the PS5 Pro. Paul Tassi of Forbes suggests that a $600 minimum price seems inevitable, reflecting the increase from the PS5’s base model launch price of $500. Tassi brought up a bunch of reasons, such as the inflation-adjusted cost of production, Sony's willingness to maintain a higher price due to less competition from Xbox, and a trend of increasing prices with each new console iteration- they all make a $700 launch price likely for the PS6. That's assuming: no disc drive, no pack-in game, and these days, who knows if it will even come with the power cord and controller... I kid, but...

With the console potentially releasing in 2028, it seems Sony may push the price higher than ever before, continuing its strategy of premium pricing amidst market dominance... When all the while, gamers that care for these types of experiences will more often than not be migrating to PC instead.

Also per Reuters, Intel had reportedly engaged in extensive discussions with Sony throughout 2022, including high-level meetings involving CEOs, engineers, and executives from both companies. However; a wide disagreement over Intel's profit share from each chip sold ultimately stalled negotiations, preventing a final deal from being reached.

An Intel spokesperson responded to Reuters’ reporting, stating:

Meanwhile... Sony, Broadcom, and AMD all declined to comment on the matter.

Keep in mind that according to those documents leaked during the ongoing court battle over Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard, Sony wasn't expected to launch its next-gen console, the PlayStation 6, until at least 2028. This timeline aligns w/Sony's strategy to maintain long-term support for the PlayStation 5, highlighting a continued focus on ensuring a smooth transition between console generations.

~Smash

- J.R.R. Tolkien (The Return of the King)

The gaming industry has been plagued with projects that seem far less about player enjoyment and more about ticking the right DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) boxes to secure funding and government grants.

The latest offender from the seemingly never-ending slop-factory? "Tales of the Shire," the new Lord of the Rings game from Wētā Workshop, which looks to be a manufactured DEI barfed mess designed solely to extort money from governments and investors while contributing to the sustained downfall of gaming... all while championing "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion" as the main focal point. Accept it, purchase it, consume it, and praise it... Otherwise, you're just a bigot.

At first glance, Tales of the Shire appears to be a quaint and "cozy" experience where you can live the serene life of a Hobbit in the Shire. The game invites players to engage in daily routines such as fishing, gardening, cooking, and decorating their Hobbit home—all things one might expect in a typical life simulation game similar to a classic like Stardew Valley.

However, the evil lurking underneath has reared it's ugly head - beneath this charming facade lies a far more concerning reality: this is yet another game engineered to serve the "right" political and social agendas rather than provide a meaningful and engaging gaming experience in any way.

The game's marketing heavily emphasizes community building, inclusivity, and diversity... and these concepts are used as buzzwords to appeal to investors and government agencies eager to support projects with a “positive social impact.” It's a tactic we've seen repeatedly: games prioritizing diversity checklists over quality gameplay end up being hollow experiences. With promises of daily activities, club missions, and a focus on fostering relationships within the community, Tales of the Shire is filled with the type of shallow engagement metrics that look great on paper but rarely translate into a fulfilling player experience.

Wētā Workshop's game studio was founded in 2014, yet it's taken them nearly a decade to release their first game, Tales of the Shire...? This lengthy timeline is curious, especially for a studio that was established with the backing of seasoned game developers and film veterans. I'd expect a company with supposedly such a history to have produced multiple titles by now, but instead, this long silence (and delays) raises questions about what’s been happening behind the scenes... The fact that "Tales of the Shire" is their debut release, after so many years, only adds more skepticism surrounding the game's purpose and quality. Almost like there's either a lack of clear direction or perhaps an overemphasis on securing funding and support rather than actually creating games...

But stop questioning. Just consume!

The game's description sounds like it was ripped straight out of a corporate DEI manual. “Gain rewards through your story progression,” “join club missions,” and “help gain official village status”—it all reeks of the gamification of mundane tasks under the guise of promoting a social unity. The attempt made here's to frame mundane activities as meaningful gameplay only further highlights its shallow, repetitive gameplay loop. And let's be honest, NOBODY asked for a Hobbit home decoration simulator... and if the mere idea of it sounded interesting on the surface anyway - don't worry, DEI destroyed any chance it had.

Wētā Workshop's marketing claims that their game studio is “filled to the brim with creative game developers” who are “passionate about making incredible experiences.” Yet, what they've delivered so far is a game concept that feels like a tired retread of better, more engaging life simulation games but with a Middle-earth skin slapped on top. It’s as if the studio is more interested in the accolades and funding that come from promoting diversity than they are in creating a genuinely fun game.

The developer is facing a beyond brutal backlash on Twitter over "Tales of the Shire," to the point where they've had to turn off replies to their tweets about the game. A quick glance over at the quote tweets reveals an absolute tidal wave of criticism, with hardly anyone expressing actual, genuine excitement for the game.

Instead, the responses are filled with skepticism, mocking, and frustration at yet another lackluster title that seems to prioritize superficial elements over substance. It's clear that gamers in general here aren't buying into this "heart-warming" Hobbit experience, and the social media reception has been nothing short of an epic disaster.

Adding another layer of cynicism to the mix, "Tales of the Shire" is being published by Private Division, a label under Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc., one of the biggest video game holding companies in the world. Given the involvement of such a mega-corporation, it's hard not to suspect that this game serves a dual purpose: to check off DEI boxes and also to act potentially as a convoluted scheme to secure tax breaks. Big corporations like Take-Two could be using creative accounting and strategic partnerships to maximize financial benefits... and this project feels like another move in their playbook to funnel money through socially appealing projects while sidestepping the larger fiscal responsibilities.

This is yet another example of how the industry is leaning into superficial diversity initiatives to secure funding and social clout rather than focusing on producing high-quality games that gamers actually want to play. Wētā Workshop may have a prestigious history working on the iconic LOTR films back in the day, but their descent into pandering to the latest social trends signals a desperate attempt to stay relevant in an industry that is becoming increasingly cynical about these obvious tactics.

Ultimately, "Tales of the Shire" exemplifies the ongoing degradation of the gaming landscape, where creativity gets sacrificed at the altar of political correctness and virtue signals. The promise of a cozy "heart-warming" Hobbit life may sound enticing initially to some, but actual gamers can see through the surface of all this. It's no conspiracy. This game, like many others that lean heavily on DEI tactics, will be remembered as (yet) another soulless cash grab rather than a worthy addition to the beloved Lord of the Rings franchise... and that... is the saddest part of all.

~Smash

When I first heard about Cat Park - a free, browser-based game allegedly designed to help players recognize and counter disinformation, I was... intrigued. Seeing as the US government is supporting what seems to be anything but the actual 'right' thing these days, I couldn't hold my curiosity back on this one.

The idea of using a video game to "educate" people was boring enough on the surface... But after spending about 30 minutes playing the game, I realized that Cat Park is anything but a tool to fight against disinformation. Instead, it felt like the playbook on how to use disinformation to push an agenda and manipulate public sentiment. Thankfully it's stupid & boring af... But that doesn't change the fact that real tax dollars (to a tune of $275,000!) were used in attempt to manipulate thought...

Annapurna Interactive, the subtly-yet-celebrated publisher behind indie hits like Kentucky Route Zero and Stray, has effectively collapsed, with its entire staff quitting en masse.

This beyond stunning move just left the future of Annapurna's ongoing projects in question, especially Morsels (above), throwing the gaming industry into... quite the frenzy.

The mass exodus happened right after negotiations between the employees and the company's owner, Megan Ellison, fell through. According to reports from the Hollywood Reporter and Bloomberg, Annapurna Interactive's senior leadership team, along with its over 20-person staff, have all resigned. This leaves a HUGE questionmark over the status of active development deals and partnerships, among so much else... In all my years... I don't think I've ever seen something like this happen in the video game industry. For the entire company to just up and quit in unison like this is just insane!

The exodus also saw the departure of Nathan Gary, the company's (now former) president and one of the founding members of Annapurna Interactive.

In his place, Hector Sanchez has been appointed as the new president. Sanchez, another founding member of Annapurna Interactive, recently returned from a brief stint at Epic Games.

But things get even more interesting when we dig deeper into the cause of this collapse. Jason Schreier's report for Bloomberg reveals that Gary had been in negotiations with daughter of multibillionaire Larry Ellison (Oracle Corp money), Megan Ellison to spin off Annapurna Interactive as an independent entity, separate from its parent company, Annapurna Pictures - which interestingly enough - was exploring bankruptcy back in 2019...

However... when Ellison pulled out of these negotiations, Gary, his leadership team, and the ENTIRE staff chose to resign. It makes me think there was a LOT more going on behind the scenes beyond just a casual conversation.

A spokesperson for Annapurna confirmed the failure of these negotiations, with Ellison stating:

This situation has caused chaos for developers currently working with Annapurna. Many are now scrambling to understand if their publishing partnerships are still valid. Aura Triolo, the animation lead for the Annapurna-published game Wanderstop, humorously summed up the situation on BlueSky: "currently being published by Annapurna voice* haha."

A key element of this drama is Remedy Games' whole involvement with Annapurna Interactive. Just recently I spoke about Remedy in greater detail, expressing a belief that the company’s intentions seem to be more about pushing propaganda and political agendas rather than focusing on creating great games. I questioned whether their heart is in the right place when it comes to game development... and now, given Remedy's recent announcement of a partnership with Annapurna for the future of the Control series, this context makes one wonder if Remedy's political leanings and questionable priorities may have contributed to Annapurna's internal tensions - though to be fair - this remains complete speculation at this point.

It's notable, however, that Remedy's deal remains intact since it was made with the parent company, Annapurna Pictures, and not the now-defunct interactive subsidiary... Oh the tangled webs we weave...

This unprecedented mass resignation comes at a tumultuous time for the gaming industry, which has already been hit by mass layoffs and consolidation. For a publisher as prominent as Annapurna Interactive to see its entire staff walk out the door over the potential of remaining a subsidiary is extraordinary and sends a stark message about the state of creative independence within corporate structures.

As the video game industry continues to navigate these wild times, the fate of Annapurna Interactive's many beloved projects remains uncertain, and developers and gamers alike are left wondering ...what will come next.

~Smash

So... It's been discovered that Ubisoft has been running a mentorship program for years, called: “Develop at Ubisoft” - Supposedly aimed at increasing diversity and inclusivity in the gaming industry. However, the reality is, the program's a clear exclusion of males, seemingly in violation of U.S. anti-discrimination laws... Though they're main HQ is based in Canada, where I guess anything flies?

On the official website, Ubisoft states:

The program offers mentorship opportunities exclusively for “women and non-binary individuals” aiming to gather students or fresh graduates from a specific demographic with less than two years of experience who are interested in game design and programming.

Blatant Discrimination Against Males

The program’s eligibility requirements make it clear that one must “identify as a woman or a non-binary individual” to participate, excluding all males from the opportunity. Given that the program is open to candidates in the United States, it raises some potential questions about its compliance with U.S. laws, which prohibit discrimination based on sex.

The fact that Ubisoft openly discriminates against males in this way is not only legally questionable... but also appears contrary to the company’s stated goal of fostering "inclusivity and diversity".

The following screenshot of the "Develop at Ubisoft" mentorship program clearly shows this exclusionary policy in the "Eligibility Criteria" section:

The program has been running for at least four years, with a previous blog post celebrating the experiences of past mentees and mentors stating

Ubisoft proudly notes that 90 mentors from 19 studios have welcomed 90 mentees, but nowhere on the program does it mention opportunities for any male candidates.

A Hypocritical Approach to Mentorship

Ironically, Ubisoft’s Senior Vice President of Production Technology, Guillemette Picard, who sponsors the program, attempted to underscore the importance of mentorship by reflecting on her own experiences with male and female mentors. Picard stated:

Her message highlights the benefits of inclusive mentorship... yet Ubisoft’s current program actively excludes half the population. Weird.

The exclusionary nature of this program appears to be part of Ubisoft’s broader “Project Rise” initiative, a strategy focused on gender equality, racial and ethnic diversity, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, and disability inclusion... But, as expected, the focus on promoting certain demographics over others seems to contradict the company's claim of fostering a truly inclusive environment... But hey, anything to push an agenda, as hypocritical as the expected outcome is.

Declining Performance Amid Controversial Policies

As I've covered previously, ironically, since Ubisoft’s "Project Rise" initiative began, the company’s stock has suffered dramatically. Over the past five years, Ubisoft's stock has dropped nearly 85%, and in the last year alone, it has fallen by 60%. Yesterday alone it fell another 10%.

And shoutout to ThatParkPlace.com for the heads up on how this trend coincides with a recent report by the Wall Street Journal, which questioned the effectiveness of so-called “woke” policies on business growth. The report cited a study by McKinsey that originally touted the financial benefits of diversity policies, but whose methods have since been called into question.

James Mackintosh, writing for the Wall Street Journal, noted:

Ubisoft’s declining stock performance is most likely a reflection of the broader skepticism regarding these "diversity"-driven business strategies.

The Impact of Exclusionary Practices on Ubisoft’s Reputation

Ubisoft’s decision to exclude males from its mentorship program raises serious questions about its commitment to true diversity and inclusivity. If the company’s aim is to create an environment that embraces diverse perspectives, it must reconsider policies that inherently discriminate against individuals based on sex. Ironically, trying to be diverse by including only a certain segment of the population, naturally creates division.

As Ubisoft continues to navigate the challenges of inclusivity in the gaming industry, it faces increasing scrutiny from both the public and investors. With its stock in freefall and the company struggling to regain its footing... it's time for Ubisoft to rethink its approach—one that genuinely reflects the diverse world its players come from, without falling into the trap of exclusionary practices that undermine its credibility and legal standing.

But then again, this is Ubisoft we're talking about...

~Smash

In a move that's left many of us scratching our heads, IGN has refused to review the "Lollipop Chainsaw RePop" remake. Yeah, I get it, even if you think IGN is a terrible organization, you'd think at the very least they'd still re-review a big upcoming re-release...

But no.

It doesn't fit the 'Message'...

As @MangaLawyer pointed out on Twitter/X, the refusal's likely due to the fear that the game might "trigger" some of their "They/Them" staff.

Instead of providing an honest review with a fresh perspective, IGN opts to publish an article simply "announcing" the game’s launch while also not hesitating to take a jab at its past by reminding everyone of the 5/10 score they originally gave it.

A review by Mitch Dyer (Bonus, just found out I'm blocked by him on Twitter lol) — a rating many feel was unfair even back then.

Let's talk about this so-called 5/10 score for a moment. Back in the day, IGN labeled the original "Lollipop Chainsaw" a mediocre title, but let’s face it, by today’s standards, this game would easily hit at least a 7.

Why? Because if IGN can give a 7 to games like "Dustborn," a buggy, propaganda-filled mess, and the now-failed "Concord," there’s no reason "Lollipop Chainsaw RePop," a remaster of a cult classic, shouldn’t be rated higher.

But if they were to review it today, you can bet IGN would probably go as low as a 3 or 2 - just to make a point.

Someone needs to tell IGN that this game is for actual gamers. We all know why they don’t like it—they just don't like anything that appeals to us anymore.

Is anyone even the least bit surprised?

This isn’t the first time IGN has shown their glaring hypocrisy. Remember "The Last of Us"? IGN initially gave the original a 9, but when the remaster hit, they upped the score to a perfect 10.

...And let's not forget how they reviewed "Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD" not once, but twice—first on PS3 and then again on PS4. Clearly, they have no issue reviewing remasters... when it suits their narrative.

The hypocrisy is astounding. If IGN doesn’t want to review "Lollipop Chainsaw RePop," fine—don’t review it. But don’t think you can subtly undermine the game while refusing to even give it a fair chance. If you won’t play by the rules, don’t play at all. Yet, these vile creatures in media try to dictate how actual gamers should approach our hobby. They just continue to twist the narrative to fit their agenda, pushing their 'feelings against the patriarchy' over fairness and real gamers.

So here’s the real question: How is IGN still in business?

Their credibility is at rock bottom. It’s clear they’ve forgotten their roots and are now more interested in gatekeeping content based on how it fits with their ever-evolving standards. The audience isn't blind, and we're tired of this obvious double standard. We deserve better, and we’re not afraid to say it. But hey, thanks to them comtinuing to drop the ball, sites like SmashJT.com, ThatParkPlace.com, BoundingIntoComics.com, Fandompulse.com, Minimaleffort.shop/blogs/news and so many other individual creators and smaller news outlets are gaining such foothold these days.

It's pretty blatantly obvious to see why....

~Smash

Source/Credit: TheGamer

In an unprecedented move (man - I'm saying that a lot when it comes to Concord...), Sony has begun manually removing the digital version of Concord from players' PlayStation 5 consoles that are connected to the internet. This move somehow marks a new low in the troubled history of the hero shooter, raising questions about the game's future and whether it will ever see the light of day again.

Released with literally ZERO fanfare from the masses, Concord quickly turned into a financial disaster for Sony and its developer, Firewalk Studios, amassing what some have estimated upwards of $250 million dollars lost over the 8 years of development. The game's servers were shut down just over a week after launch, and full refunds were issued to players. While server closures are not uncommon for live-service games, the complete removal of Concord from players' consoles takes this situation to a whole new level.

If you were among those dozens of folks who purchased and downloaded the digital version of Concord, you'll be greeted with a notification on your PlayStation 5 home screen that reads:

TheGamer reported that while the physical edition of Concord can still be booted, players can't progress past the title screen, because it is now an unsupported live-service game.

However... the complete removal of digital content is something we've rarely seen before, raising questions about why Sony decided to take this step. Is it a way to clean up their digital storefront, or are they trying to quietly erase a project they no longer have faith in?

The Tumultuous Life of Concord

From the very beginning, Concord seemed destined for trouble. The high-budget, live-service game was meant to capture a significant player base and become a staple in the multiplayer gaming landscape. I covered in-depth the troubles behind the scenes at Firewalk Studios that proved to be quite telling upon release. The game failed to resonate with players, and its tiny player base dwindled almost immediately after launch.

Sony and Firewalk Studios’ decision to shut down the game so soon after release was unprecedented for a publisher of Sony’s size and stature. With the digital version now being manually removed from consoles, the future of Concord is now more uncertain than ever. Speculation has run wild, and now it feels like Sony might consider re-releasing Concord as a free-to-play title in a desperate bid to recover its investment. Others, however, are convinced that Sony would prefer to sweep this disaster under the rug and move on. Ouch. But hey, tax breaks, am I right?

Adding to the confusion is the fact that Amazon's upcoming Secret Level anthology series still plans to feature an episode based on Concord. How this will play out given the game's current status is anyone's guess... But I can only imagine how bad this game will get lambasted again once the pot gets stirred after that episode drops.

Changing My Mind: Concord May Never Return

Initially, I thought there might be a slim chance for Concord to make a comeback in some form. Maybe Sony would find a way to pivot, rebrand, and re-release the game to a warmer reception. But nah... after seeing these recent developments, I’m not so sure. Manually deleting the game from players' consoles tells me that Sony isn't just hitting the reset button—they may be hitting "delete" on Concord altogether. What happens to all those employees now?

The future seems all-too-predictable.

This is more than just damage control; it feels like Sony is distancing itself entirely from a project that they no longer see as viable. While dozens may still hold out hope for a revival, the reality seems bleak. The removal of Concord from players' consoles could very well be the final nail in the coffin for a game that never truly found any footing.

Sony’s handling of Concord serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes involved in the live-service game market. While some will definitely always argue that there's still a path forward for the title, I think that Concord is unlikely ever to see the light of day again.

~Smash

Huge Shoutout to BoundingIntoComics for the initial story!

"Oh shut up Smash, it's not a big deal!"

If it's not a big deal ...why do it?

Square Enix keeps pushing that censorship in the modern era... this time due to their decision to censor female character designs in the upcoming Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake.

What - You thought it would stop at censoring the troll's lips?

Or at removing genders to instead switch into 'Body Type A/B in Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake?

That stuff, unfortunately, was just the beginning...

The changes, which alter the original designs by legendary artist Akira Toriyama, have sparked outrage among everyone, but especially Japanese fans right now - They aren't having it.

They're arguing that this censorship is not only disrespectful to the game’s legacy but also straight-up shitting on Toriyama’s artistic visions. Why do this at all if the disctinctions are so minimal, all they've done is removed the distinguishable characteristics and replaced it with a far more 'generic' looking character

But wait - there's more! The female versions of the Gadabout and Warrior classes have been noticeably modified:

The Warrior, once clad in a design typical of the classic Japanese “bikini armor” style, now has a tan undershirt and shorts beneath her armor (above), while the female Gadabout’s outfit (below) has been heavily altered to cover more skin, losing a ton of its original distinctive style. Even her iconic “Whisky” bottle accessory has been reduced to a nondescript brown jug, with its original label stripped away...

While some changes, like those made to the Gadabout’s costume, were clearly to avoid legal issues with the Playboy bunny outfit, Japanese fans see these alterations as acts of puritanical censorship rather than necessary modifications. Fans have taken to social media to voice their dissatisfaction, accusing Square Enix of prioritizing political correctness over artistic integrity.

Then we have Maya, being completely destroyed for Dragon Quest Monsters 3 (above). What is with the added undergarments to appeal to 'Western standards'??

@spider0244, expressed frustration: “Why would they do this to a female Warrior in a remake of Dragon Quest III, one of the milestones of the Japanese bikini armor culture? Everyone involved should apologize at Akira Toriyama’s grave.”

This sentiment is echoed by @90mm_Kanon, who argued that the changes are “disrespectful and rude to Akira Toriyama.”

The backlash intensified as more fans chimed in, questioning why the original designs were changed when the female Warrior appeared in Dragon Quest Walk ReWALK earlier this year wearing a costume much closer to Toriyama’s vision.

@Re_Riam pointed out more inconsistency:

Some even found humor in the situation, noting that the redesigned pixel art sprite of the female Warrior now awkwardly resembles a set of male genitalia. Twitter user @nonameagent tweeted, “It’s cute and looks like a penis”:

...While @ritta_com quipped, “Does this mean Square Enix has opened up the possibility of a futanari?” Which, for those unfamiliar, that refers almost exclusively to characters who have a female or overall feminine body, but have both female and male primary genitalia...

At the heart of the outrage lies a broader dissatisfaction with the trend of censorship in Japanese games, perceived as pandering to Western sensibilities and social pressures. Fans feel that these changes undermine the cultural and artistic heritage of games like Dragon Quest III, which have long celebrated unique Japanese styles and values... and to be honest, can anyone blame them for feeling this way? There's a growing sentiment in the West that gamers have had enough of this, no matter how small or trivial it may seem at first, because that's exactly how a slippery slope gets us to a Sweet Baby Inc.-styled DEI injection firm, desecrating the art of gaming.

Turning Tides

As we continue to see these kinds of modifications, it’s clear that Japanese gamers are fed up with the increasing trend of censorship, particularly when it seems to be driven by external pressures rather than genuine artistic intent. Square Enix’s decision to censor iconic character designs, especially those created by a beloved artist like Akira Toriyama, feels far more like a betrayal to fans who've supported the franchise for decades than anything else.

...And all for what? To shit on this legend's legacy in the name of DEI!?

While DEI consultancy firms would most likely try and argue that these changes are minor or necessary for "modern audiences", it’s beyond evident that both Western and Eastern fans are united in their opposition to these alterations.

The sentiment's simple: If a company is going to remake a beloved classic, they should do so with respect to the original material, rather than bending to perceived political correctness. It's REALLY not that hard.

Square Enix and other companies should take note: Fans are willing to vote with their wallets. Time and time again that theory has now become a proven fact. If they continue down this path, they risk alienating their core audience even further, harming their brand more in the long run. As user wontbendthekne succinctly put it in a reply on BoundingIntoComics story:

Let’s hope Square Enix reconsiders its approach and begins to prioritize its fans and the legacy of its creators over external pressures. If they do not, they might find themselves losing not just fans, but also their standing in the gaming community.

Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is set to release on November 14th, but with the current sentiment... it remains to be seen whether fans will embrace it or reject it in any kind of protest.

And again - Huge shoutout to Bounding Into Comics for the heads up on this insanity!! ~Smash

In only what I can try to explain as a bizarre twist of events, that false copyright strike filed against my channel by Black Girl Gamers (BGG) has... mysteriously disappeared. After initially receiving an email notification from YouTube that my video was flagged with a copyright claim by BGG and threatened with removal on September 14, 2024, I braced myself for what I expected would be a long legal battle.

I never received any follow-up communication from YouTube or BGG about the status of the strike—no emails, no updates- nothing. Yet, as of this moment, the threat has straight up vanished, and the video is now displayed just like any other content on my channel, free from the shadow of an impending strike.

What happened?

Well... I can only speculate. It seems MOST likely that BGG retracted their strike after I made it clear that I was prepared to pursue legal action. They may have realized their case was non-existent, or maybe... they feared the backlash from the community after being exposed for filing a frivolous claim. Then there's also a distant possibility that YouTube themselves stepped in and canceled the claim directly after realizing that BGG's copyright strike, which claimed ownership over the entire video, was blatantly false and inappropriate... But - I don't know.

I attempted to communicate with @TeamYouTube on Twitter, but the responses were less than helpful and offered little guidance on resolving the issue. It felt like the robotic responses I was getting was as good as talking to a brick wall.

Despite the frustrations, I wasn't alone—So many people from the community relentlessly tagged TeamYouTube, standing up and amplifying my voice in what initially felt like an unwinnable battle. Your support was beyond crucial in pushing back against the false copyright strike, demonstrating the power of collective action in the face of unjust censorship... and for those who joined in - in any way - I genuinely cannot thank you enough.

Whatever the reason, the strike has... been removed, and I’m relieved to move past this incident. However, this only reinforces my perspective on BGG and their tactics. Instead of having an open conversation, I got a strike attempt.

The weirdest part about all of it is I received ZERO communication from anyone about the situation being repaired. You'd think that would be the first thing that would automatically trigger, even if it was just an automated email saying the strike threat has been removed...

But then again, this is YouTube we're talking about and transparency is often... lacking.

It’s a move that aligns with BGG's previous attempts to silence dissenting voices, such as their actions sending the Cease & Desist against ThatParkPlace.

This is who Black Girl Gamers are—quick to wield false claims to stifle any criticism or challenge to their narrative... Then run and hide in an echo chamber, thinking the world is out to get them instead of trying to have an honest and open conversation to move the industry forward.

The video went HYPER viral instantly from the almost the second I hit publish - amassing over a staggering quarter million views in four days. If YouTube had gone through with deleting the video, not only would those views been wiped from existence on my channel, but I'd likely have faced months of suppression by the algorithm—a common consequence I've heard happens for creators hit with strikes.

The fact that this strike's disappeared is a gigantic win - I can't underscore that enough, and the incredible support from so many of you has been beyond overwhelming. I can't thank everyone enough for standing by me and helping to turn the tide in this fight!

Hopefully, others take note of these types of actions and recognize the kind of behavior they may face when dealing with BGG. This latest situation serves as an unfortunate reminder of how some groups will go to extreme lengths to suppress open discussion, but it's also proof that standing firm and pushing back can make a difference. They could have easily replied to the email and apologized and been honest, but instead - I'm just left forever wondering...

WTF even happened in the end? I don't know... But regardless it seems to be gone. Thank YOU! Without the community coming together on this, it'd had been a slog to get through it.

~Smash

Sony officially announced the PS5 Pro, a "mid-generation" upgrade that will hit the shelves on November 7th, 2024, with a price tag of a whopping $699.99.

With this release, they're aiming to deliver 'smoother' frame rates, higher display resolutions, and better ray-tracing, promising a console that outperforms the original PS5 by leaps and bounds. However, the biggest question we should all be asking is... at what cost?

An Insane Price for an Underwhelming Upgrade

At $700 (without a disc drive), the PS5 Pro costs as much as a decent gaming PC — a PC that's upgradable and... future-proof. And if the eye-watering price wasn't enough, Sony has decided to charge an additional $80 USD fee for a separate 4K Blu-ray disc drive. Yeah.. the disc drive isn't included in the base price.

Sony is essentially asking consumers to shell out extra for what many consider a basic feature. This strategy reeks of a money grab, rather than an attempt to genuinely enhance the gaming experience.

For the price of a PS5 Pro and a separate disc drive, consumers could easily invest in a gaming PC that not only matches the performance but also offers more flexibility in terms of upgrades and versatility. This lackluster value proposition is only going to push more gamers towards the so-called "PC master race."

As @Okami13_ on X put it so bluntly:

I put together a quick mid-range PC build for about $1300. PS5 Pro + Disk Drive is $780. For about $500 more you get:

- Free online

- Free cloud saves

- MUCH cheaper games

- Mods

- Higher fidelity and frame rates

- PC Game Pass with day one Xbox games + hundreds of other titles

- PS5 exclusives ~1-2y after launch

- DLSS with frame gen

- Ability to tweak and customize settings

- Ability to upgrade one PC part at a time

- Countless other benefits of a gaming PC

Could opt for an even cheaper machine for a 1440p build but I tried to use newish parts only.

Where Are the Games?

Adding insult to injury, Sony hasn't even announced a major title to showcase the PS5 Pro's upgrades. What could have been an opportunity to launch a system seller — a massive, groundbreaking game that fully utilizes the new console's capabilities — has instead turned into an exercise in showing off slightly enhanced versions of existing titles like "Horizon: Forbidden West" or "Gran Turismo 7" So, cool I guess ...Yay?

Sony's failure to announce a game that takes full advantage of the PS5 Pro’s new hardware is baffling. This lack of foresight leaves the average gamer questioning the console's value. At this price point, it'd had made more sense for Sony to align the launch with a massive title that makes full use of the improved graphics, frame rates, and ray tracing. Instead, what we got was a showcase of older games with minor visual improvements.

A Missed Opportunity for the Future of Consoles

Given the lackluster reception and high price point, one has to wonder what Sony was thinking with this release. Instead of doubling down on an upgrade that feels like a minor step up from the current PS5, Sony could have used this moment to start fresh with a PS6 — separating the brands and bringing something genuinely new to the table.

By prolonging the current generation with what feels like a half-hearted effort, Sony now risks alienating a large portion of its fan base. Yes they did this with the PS4 Pro as well, and I wasn't a fan of it then either. The decision to charge extra for a separate disc drive and the lack of a compelling launch title this time around make the PS5 Pro feel more like a cash grab than an innovative step forward. This is particularly troubling in an industry that thrives on exciting game experiences, not just hardware specs.

Just imagine if Sony would focus on making incredible game experiences instead of puking out the $250 million loss known as Concord. The vast majority of gamers are content with the current graphical offering and settings... We just want good games to play now.

Final Thoughts

For those with disposable income who are still clinging to last-gen consoles, the PS5 Pro may seem like an attractive option... But for the average gamer already owning a PS5, spending $700 on this "upgrade" is questionable ...at best. This move by Sony only makes it easier everyone to make the jump to PC, where you have more control, customization, and future-proofing for your money. Hell, Sony's even putting their games there now anyways.

In the end, the PS5 Pro feels like a misstep in a generation that should be pushing boundaries and creating incredible game experiences. Sony, it’s time to get back to the drawing board and start thinking about what gamers really want.

~Smash

Ubisoft in Crisis: Stock Plummets as Investors Lose Faith in Leadership

Ubisoft is in serious trouble, and the signs are growing more dire by the day. Last week, the gaming giant's investors were disappointed with early sales numbers for Star Wars Outlaws, causing the stock to crash. Shares plummeted more than 10% back then, dropping Ubisoft's market cap in Paris to below €2 billion at the time. The outlook last week was grim, to say the least... and now?

It's gotten a LOT worse since then...

Today, things have only gotten worse, with the stock falling another 9%, bringing the company’s market value down to a mere €1.7 billion (US$1.9 billion)—its lowest point in nearly a decade.

Dr. Serkan Toto (@serkantoto on X), the CEO of Japan game industry consultancy (http://kantangames.com) Stated:

Part of Ubisoft's crisis stems from putting all their eggs in two baskets: Assassin's Creed: Shadows and Star Wars Outlaws. Both titles were touted by executives as blockbuster hits in the making, promising to captivate gamers and deliver massive returns. Yet, early rumored numbers regarding sales and preorders are painting quite the bleak picture for both, revealing that these assurances may have been little more than desperate attempts by Ubisoft's leadership to buy themselves a few more months before reality set in. It's becoming increasingly clear that these promises were hollow, made to just momentarily appease investors... while ignoring the real underlying problems. Let's be honest - real gamers following this situation closely aren't surprised by this downturn. We saw it a mile away.

The company's troubles run far deeper than just a few poorly performing games. Ubisoft has also made the controversial decision to inject DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) ideologies into its content, a move that's alienated a significant portion of gamers. The audience response has been as predicted by many—negative and dismissive—though Ubisoft either didn't anticipate this reaction or chose to ignore it altogether.

The question now looms: Can Ubisoft turn the ship around? With the current leadership—the same executives who boldly declared that players should "get comfortable with not owning games"—still steering the company, the answer seems ...doubtful. Gamers have grown increasingly frustrated with Ubisoft’s agendas, reused assets, and the generic, repetitive gameplay that has characterized many recent titles in addition to the obvious over-the-top DEI injection.

The notion of paying for a game without actually owning it has only fueled frustrations. A complete overhaul in leadership and strategy may be the only path to redemption, but for a company that's already losing investor confidence at a staggering rate, it may already be too little... too late.

~Smash

The toxic culture at Firewalk Studios continues to unravel as (another) woke employee, Amanda Kiefer, Senior Concept Artist, had some protected tweets leaked out...

Unmasking Amanda Kiefer: A Pattern of Controversy

I previously covered Amanda Kiefer prior to the game coming out, known online as @ImagineAmanda on X (now protected mode)... But here's a quick TLDR on her to catch you up in case you don't want to rehash that entire article: She does not like gamers. While undeniably talented in her craft, Kiefer has developed a reputation for vehemently attacking those who criticize upcoming games, such as the Silent Hill 2 remake, and has even gone so far as to label dissenters as malicious. Her online persona paints a picture of a professional more interested in defending her ideologies than fostering an inclusive and welcoming gaming community.

Before a whistleblower reached out to me with insider information about the disaster internally at Firewalk Studios, Amanda had already preemptively blocked me on Twitter, raising some questions about her transparency (and willingness) to face any accountability (shocker). This suggested a desire to silence critics and try her best to maintain control over the narrative surrounding her and Firewalk. It was a telling sign of the defensive and insular culture that had permeated the studio.

Firewalk is knee-deep in a toxic environment, characterized by extreme political correctness and a left-leaning agenda that stifles diverse viewpoints. Employees like Amanda Kiefer seemed to wield significant influence, promoting a "cult"ure that prioritized ideological conformity over creative freedom. The whole situation was reminiscent of previous reports involving other industry figures, such as Lisa Brown, who allegedly blacklisted employees for not adhering to her preferred titles, further contributing to the hostile workplace atmosphere.

The Art of Virtue Signaling

While Amanda is undoubtedly skilled with some of her art designs outside of the game, their approach to handling any criticism has been anything but that. The focus on including certain 'progressive' elements, such as diverse body types and pronouns in Concord appears less about genuine inclusion and more about virtue signaling. Gamers have been increasingly pushing back against these perceived forced political narratives, arguing that they detract from the core gaming experience... But Sony and Firewalk refused to listen...

Amanda’s Statement and the Fallout

In a leaked message from Amanda, she expresses frustration with the criticism aimed at her and her team, stating that the situation "has taken a severe emotional toll" on them. She acknowledges the impact of executive decisions and hints at the dire financial consequences faced by the art department. Yet... her statement misses the point entirely.

While it's understandable that the closure of a project can be emotionally and financially devastating for those involved, gamers are under no obligation to feel sympathy for developers when their products fail to meet expectations. Comparing this situation to receiving a poorly made burger at a restaurant and being expected to sympathize with the cook for "trying their best," the community sees this as a deflection from the real issue: the game's failure to resonate with its audience.

The Real Problem at Firewalk Studios

The issue at Firewalk Studios goes well beyond Amanda Kiefer's online conduct. It's about a culture more concerned with promoting political ideologies than delivering quality games. The studio's insistence on pushing narratives and intolerance for dissenting viewpoints have alienated both gamers and even some industry professionals.

Amanda’s stance exemplifies the broader problems at Firewalk Studios.

While she possesses undeniable talent, her approach here and the studio’s culture are out of touch with what many gamers desire: engaging, high-quality content without divisive political undertones. The gaming community has spoken, and it's clear that Firewalk Studios needs to recalibrate its approach if it hopes to regain credibility... If they can last long enough to even try.

A Call for Change

It’s time for Firewalk Studios to listen to its audience and make necessary changes - assuming they can last. Gamers want to enjoy their hobbies without being subjected to political messaging. As Concord flops and the studio faces increased scrutiny, one thing is clear: the time for action has already passed, and Firewalk Studios must confront its toxic culture before it's too late. You know - That whole "Be accountable" thing that seems like such a foreign concept to some folks...

Amanda Kiefer’s leaked tweets here behind her protected account is just the latest chapter in this ongoing saga. It serves as a good reminder that the gaming community is no longer willing to tolerate an industry that places agendas over enjoyment... and that - is a great thing.

~Smash

Black Girl Gamers (BGG) has decided to abuse YouTube's flawed copyright system to silence dissenting voices, specifically in this case - my own.

They filed a baseless copyright strike against Smash JT for a video that was well within the bounds of fair use — a video I created in good faith for open discussion, and even reference that multiple times throughout the video.

There's a deep-seated fear of the truth getting out about their activities and a worrying trend of attempting to stifle any criticism of their approach.

BGG’s actions are not just inappropriate; they’re a calculated effort to control the narrative by attacking content creators and scaring them from talking about them and those who challenge their perspectives. Striking down a very popular viral video (nearly 200,000 views already in a couple days) that offered a critical viewpoint is a BEYOND desperate move, one that shows they're more interested in silencing opposition than engaging in any meaningful discussion.

What BGG fails to realize is that this tactic will ultimately backfire. It always ALWAYS does. By attempting to suppress channels like mine, they're drawing more attention to the very issues they try to hide.

Censorship has never been an effective long-term strategy; it only serves to amplify the voices it seeks to silence. In the end, this move by BGG is not just an attack on my channel, but on the broader principle of free speech and open discourse within the gaming community. Proving they do not care about freedom of speech, only further confirming that they ONLY want their narrative out there.

YouTube's flawed copyright system is unfortunately enabling these bad actors like Black Girl Gamers to file false copyright strikes against anyone they deem critical. This is an extremely dangerous precedent that threatens the integrity of content creation and the freedom to express diverse viewpoints. It's time for YouTube to recognize the abuse of its system and take action against those who would use it to stifle legitimate discussions.

For whatever reason - I am unable to counter or object to this unjust copyright strike from Black Girl Gamers, and now, YouTube has notified me that my video will be removed in five days, and will strike my channel.

This false claim not only targets my content but also seizes any earned income from what was becoming a viral video, hitting me where it hurts most. If you would like to support SmashJT on Youtube via the join button, it would be a gigantic middle finder to these assholes.

They baselessly accuse me of stealing their entire video when, in reality, I used only very small portions under fair use for honest commentary on their discussion—something protected under free speech. It's clear they don't care about freedoms unless those freedoms align with their own ideology, resorting to censorship to suppress any voice they don't agree with.

I sent the following email to them in response to this action:

BGG’s attempt to muzzle criticism will not succeed; the truth always has a way of getting out. By continuing to challenge these oppressive tactics, we expose the hypocrisy and double standards at play, ensuring that open and honest dialogue prevails in our community.

~Smash

Here we go again... finding normal folks in the crosshairs of yet another crazed social justice crusade. This time, it’s Vida Starčević, the Senior Community Manager for Remedy Entertainment, who somehow still has a job after years of insane tweets attacking the very community she works for... and now - publicly called for "bigots" to be removed from gaming communities following the shutdown of Firewalk Studios' game, Concord.

What...?

Side Note: WTF is the deal with Community Managers, btw? This trend of crazed-lunatics seems all too consistent... This one takes the cake, though. Here's her in an interview with Gamespot if you really want to see how nuts this loose screw is.

With Concord crashing and burning, Starčević’s reaction reflects a troubling recurrence among industry insiders like Daniel Ahmad, who are always so quick to blame the community instead of addressing their own personal failures... So let's begin where this all started:

Failing Games, Blame the Community?

Starčević worked on Sweet Baby Inc. project: Alan Wake 2 - and she decided to take to social media to try and amplify calls for weeding out “bad actors” in the gaming community, using language explicitly targeting anyone who opposed her own personal views. She followed similar sentiments expressed by others, such as Daniel Ahmad, Director of Research at Niko Partners, who exposed himself as a bit off this week with the whole Concord collapse. He had claimed that criticisms of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives are part of a “conspiracy-focused narrative,” Starčević doubled down by pushing for an ideological purge within gaming circles. Ahmad even went so far as to accuse right-wing gamers of “collective self-deception” and “standard bigotry,” while Starčević echoed these sentiments, advocating for the removal of anyone she deems a “bigot” from gaming spaces.

Bute before we get to the present day, lets travel back to Jan 29th, 2024:

The warning signs were there. Nothing was done, and now, a crazy person has spiraled out of control and is actively destroying any semblance of good will for the company she works for at Remedy.

This rhetoric has become all too familiar in recent years: when a game fails, it is somehow always the fault of the community, not the product itself. It’s always a convenient scapegoat that easily distracts from the actual glaring reality that many games, like Alan Wake 2, are failing to connect with their intended audiences.

The Hypocrisy Behind the Calls for “Purity”

Ironically, Starčević's own career at Remedy seems to be a manifestation of those very prejudices she claims to despise. Madam Savvy came through with a banger tweet about how she wouldn't have worked for Remedy if their game Control had featured a male protagonist.

In her words, “A very important part of me taking the job was that it was a game in which you played as a woman.” This is discrimination, pure and simple — a refusal to work based on the gender of a fictional character. She also pushed to amplify the anti-gamer (pro-activist) group TakeThis.org in order to try and help them get additional funding.

Starčević has been vocal about pushing for certain racial and gender quotas in her professional role, expressing frustration that influencer agencies were sending her pitches “wall to wall white men” and urging them to “do better.”

Her actions reveal a clear bias against certain demographics, yet she has the audacity to call for "bigots" to be removed from the industry.

Remedy’s Financial Struggles Speak Volumes

Starčević’s own employer, Remedy Entertainment, is struggling to turn a profit on Alan Wake 2, a game that has not recovered its development and marketing costs nearly a year after its release. As I covered previously, the company’s financial reports revealed that Alan Wake 2 has sold only 1.3 million copies and still has not generated royalties. Remedy even stopped sharing sales figures after these disappointing numbers, an indication that the game is far from being the hit they had hoped for.

Yet, instead of introspection and considering why the game failed to resonate with a broader audience, Starčević chose to double down on a divisive narrative, attempting to shift the blame onto the community itself.

Time to Weed Out the Real “Bad Actors”

The issue here is not just one individual's misguided ideology. It is a pervasive problem in today’s gaming industry. The tendency to blame the gaming community whenever a product fails, instead of critically evaluating the product itself, is not only dishonest but also damaging.

The reality is that Alan Wake 2 and games like Concord failed because they did not connect with the audiences they were targeting. Gamers don’t want to be lectured or vilified; they want to be entertained.

We need to start weeding out these ideologues who are poisoning the gaming industry with their divisive and exclusionary rhetoric. Instead of focusing on the merits of their games, they resort to name-calling and blame-shifting, all while hiding behind a façade of inclusivity. Oh and shocker - she's anti-capitalism...

The industry needs professionals who can listen to their audience and create content that truly resonates, not those who engage in petty power struggles over ideology.

Still Zero Accountability

It’s time for gamers to demand accountability from those in positions of power within the industry. We must make it clear that we won’t tolerate these ideologues who aim to divide us, distract from their own failures, and turn our beloved pastime into a battleground for their social justice crusades.

There's legitimate frustration with the current direction of the gaming industry, where some so called "insiders" seem more focused on pushing divisive ideologies and virtue signaling rather than creating games that resonate with players. This is where the lack of professionalism grows and a disregard for the core audience's interests are leading to the failure of several recent titles.

The Great Enabler: Remedy Games

Let's take a look at Remedy games here - Because let's be real: Remedy Games is a complete mess.

Sam Lake, a Writer. Director for Remedy Games - Most notably, Max Payne, but also Alan Wake... Sides with these crazies. As we see below, he supports resident lunatic Alyssa Mercante and donated to her proven scam 'Trans Lifeline' "Charity" for virtue signal points:

Much of the community was not the biggest fan of this move by Sam...

It's one big club, and you aren't in it:

Indie Savior?

There's a hope that indie developers will resist these trends and maintain their creative freedom, but also a concern that ideological influences could spread further. The industry should prioritize making great games that engage players, rather than promoting agendas that alienate them...

In the end, the market speaks louder than any tweet or post. If the likes of Starčević continue to alienate the core gaming community, they may soon find themselves on the outside looking in. It’s time for a new era in gaming — one where the community’s voice is not only heard but respected.

~Smash