Game Developers Conference - Softonic English

Baby Steps had two crazy influences: a custom map from Mirror's Edge and a video of a Japanese skater

The level design of Baby Steps is inspired by a unique combination of elements, highlighting a custom map from the game Mirror’s Edge and a video of the Japanese skater Gou Miyagi. During a talk at the Game Developers Conference (GDC), developer Gabe Cuzzillo explained that the gameplay experience focuses on allowing players to progress at their own pace, promoting exploration instead of following predefined paths. This philosophy allows players to find their own way in challenging environments, making each adventure an exercise in discovery. The influence can come from many […]

The level design of Baby Steps is inspired by a unique combination of elements, highlighting a custom map from the game Mirror’s Edge and a video of the Japanese skater Gou Miyagi. During a talk at the Game Developers Conference (GDC), developer Gabe Cuzzillo explained that the gameplay experience focuses on allowing players to progress at their own pace, promoting exploration instead of following predefined paths. This philosophy allows players to find their own way in challenging environments, making each adventure an exercise in discovery.

Influence can come in many forms

Cuzzillo mentioned that the Sparrow Cumulus map, which challenges players to find their own path, was fundamental in the conception of Baby Steps. He stated: “When I played, I felt like I suddenly woke up, I found myself on paths filled with jumps and interruptions that resulted in dead ends, which led me to observe the space in a new way“. This design approach favors an experience where the player is not simply guided, but becomes the active explorer of their own experience.

Moreover, Gou Miyagi’s influence is reflected in the way Baby Steps allows players to freely explore and face obstacles that lead them to rethink how to approach each level. Cuzzillo revealed that the development process involved constant collaboration within the team, where testing was conducted and unexplored areas of the game were sought, driving curiosity and the desire for innovation. The result is an experience where learning occurs through trial and error, encouraging players to find a path that feels authentic and satisfying.

So, as they venture into the world of Baby Steps, players can expect a design that challenges expectations and fosters creativity at every step.

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The writer of Expedition 33 would have to kill us if she told us what she is working on

In a recent interview with GamesRadar+ at the Game Developers Conference, the lead writer of Sandfall Interactive, Jennifer Svedberg-Yen, addressed the future of the acclaimed series Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Despite her enthusiasm, Svedberg-Yen was evasive when discussing possible directions for the series, mentioning that the influence of Final Fantasy on its development has been significant. This reference suggests the possibility that Clair Obscur could transform into a multi-game series or adopt an anthology format, similar to other standout titles in the industry. We will have to wait to find out Svedberg-Yen, in a playful tone, stated: “I can’t reveal these […]

In a recent interview with GamesRadar+ at the Game Developers Conference, the lead writer of Sandfall Interactive, Jennifer Svedberg-Yen, addressed the future of the acclaimed series Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.Despite her enthusiasm, Svedberg-Yen was evasive when discussing possible directions for the series, mentioning that the influence of Final Fantasy on its development has been significant. This reference suggests the possibility that Clair Obscur may transform into a multi-game series or adopt an anthology format, similar to other prominent titles in the industry.

We will have to wait to know

Svedberg-Yen, with a playful tone, declared: “I can’t reveal these things. If I did, I would have to kill you,” reflecting her desire to keep the suspense about the future of the franchise. The writer, who is excited about the interest that Clair Obscur has generated among Final Fantasy fans, also emphasized that the series has multiple paths to explore, including direct sequels or the creation of independent stories that share only a common iconography.

With so many possibilities on the horizon, the gaming community eagerly awaits news about Clair Obscur. For now, the uncertainty remains about whether the series will expand in one direction or another, which will undoubtedly continue to capture the attention and interest of its followers.

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Xbox announces that we should expect the return of many of its classic games

On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of Xbox, the company has announced significant plans for video game preservation, including the re-release of iconic classics that will be played in completely new ways. In a talk at the Game Developers Conference, Jason Ronald, vice president of Xbox’s next-gen division, emphasized the importance of preserving and modernizing past games so that new generations can enjoy them. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to preserving the heritage of video games, which has gained momentum in recent years. They continue to seek to preserve their classic games Ronald mentioned that […]

On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of Xbox, the company has announced significant plans for video game preservation, including the re-release of iconic classics that will be played in completely new ways. In a talk at the Game Developers Conference, Jason Ronald, vice president of the next-gen division of Xbox, emphasized the importance of preserving and modernizing past games so that new generations can enjoy them. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to preserving the heritage of video games, which has gained momentum in recent years.

They continue to seek to preserve their classic games

Ronald mentioned that the game preservation team has been working hard to make classic titles accessible using new technologies, such as auto HDR and frame rate boost (FPS boost). These features not only enhance graphical quality and performance but also allow games conceived before the arrival of HDR to feel fresh and updated. Although specific titles that will be re-released have not been revealed, the promise is that they will offer experiences that resonate with modern players.

Despite these initiatives, some criticisms have arisen regarding certain approaches to preservation, highlighting the need for robust long-term strategies. Recently, it became clear that not all attempts to use advanced technology, such as generative AI, have been well received in the gaming community, underscoring the complexity of the challenge facing the industry.

Since the creation of job listings focused on emulating systems, Xbox seems to be taking concrete steps to ensure that the history of video games remains accessible. Ronald’s vision regarding preservation reflects not only a commercial reality but also an emotional connection, as many believe that great games are timeless and should be enjoyed by everyone.

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Xbox drops its most controversial marketing campaign

Asha Sharma took over the leadership of Xbox two weeks ago, marking the beginning of a new era for Microsoft’s iconic gaming brand. This leadership change became evident during the Game Developers Conference (GDC) in San Francisco, where Project Helix, the anticipated successor to the Series X/S hardware, was presented, although details about specifications and dates are still a matter of speculation. Under Sharma’s management, one of the most notable changes has been the almost complete withdrawal of the controversial marketing campaign “This is an Xbox”

Now only the Xboxes are an Xbox

One of the most notable changes under Sharma’s management has been the almost complete withdrawal of the controversial marketing campaign “This is an Xbox.” This initiative, which aimed to position Xbox not just as a console but as a versatile platform encompassing everything from mobile devices to virtual reality gadgets, was considered offensive by some employees of the company. According to reports, it had made workers uncomfortable because they felt the campaign distanced Xbox from its essence as a video game console.

The campaign was previously driven by Sarah Bond, who also left the company in the context of restructuring. Marketing decisions, as well as the overall approach to Xbox communication, seem to be changing drastically with Sharma taking charge. Currently, the only remnant of the “This is an Xbox” campaign has been removed from Xbox Wire, where related articles were previously accessible.

With this new direction, Asha Sharma has the task of reintegrating Xbox hardware back into the spotlight. With Project Helix, the brand aims to rejuvenate its image and reconnect with its consumer base, a strategy that may indicate a more traditional approach compared to previous ideas about the Xbox ecosystem.

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The new generation of Xbox consoles is here, and we know more details about it

During the Game Developers Conference, Xbox revealed details about Project Helix, its new generation of consoles. This ambitious project, presented by Asha Sharma, CEO of Microsoft’s gaming division, is designed to deliver exceptional performance and adapt to current trends among gamers, who often use multiple screens and face fragmentation in their game libraries. The resurgence of classics Project Helix will allow users to play their console and PC titles on a single device, an initiative that responds to the growing need to unify experiences across different platforms

During the Game Developers Conference, Xbox revealed details about Project Helix, its new generation of consoles.

This ambitious project, presented by Asha Sharma, CEO of Microsoft’s gaming division, is designed to provide exceptional performance and adapt to current trends among gamers, who often use multiple screens and face fragmentation in their game libraries.

The resurgence of the classics

Project Helix will allow users to play their console and PC titles on a single device, an initiative that responds to the growing need to unify experiences across different platforms. Jason Ronald, Vice President of Xbox Devices and Ecosystems, emphasized that this system will enhance the player experience, reinforcing the Xbox Play Anywhere strategy.

One of the highlights of Project Helix is its custom AMD system on chip (SoC), which optimizes graphics performance through advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence in the rendering process.

This includes support for AMD Fidelity Super Resolution technology, which allows for the generation of additional frames —better known as framegen— and high-performance ray tracing, thus enhancing the visual quality of video games.

Backward compatibility will also be present in this new console, allowing players to enjoy their favorite games from the past. In fact, to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Xbox in 2026, classic titles will be released with new gaming experiences.

Despite the excitement generated, Microsoft has not confirmed a release date or a specific price for Project Helix. However, it is anticipated that developers will have access to alpha versions of the device in 2027, marking the beginning of a new era in the history of Xbox. Additional details about this innovative project will be revealed in the coming months, promising a future full of expectations for the gaming community.

We are already getting to know more details about the two new devices from Valve

Valve has successfully presented at the Game Developers Conference, where it highlighted two of its upcoming devices: Steam Machine and Steam Frame. Both products have generated great anticipation among developers and gamers, and the company has shared crucial information about its verification system specifically designed for Steam Machine. Also betting on VR, the new system will classify games as ‘Verified Games for Steam Machine’, ensuring they meet a minimum performance of 30 FPS and a resolution of 1080p. Titles that have been certified for the Steam Deck, Valve’s current portable device, […]

Valve has successfully presented at the Game Developers Conference, where it highlighted two of its upcoming devices: Steam Machine and Steam Frame.

Both products have generated great anticipation among developers and gamers, and the company has shared crucial information about its verification system specifically designed for Steam Machine.

Also betting on VR

The new system will allow games to be classified as ‘Verified Games for Steam Machine’, ensuring they meet a minimum performance of 30 FPS and a resolution of 1080p.

Titles that have been certified for the Steam Deck, Valve’s current portable device, will also work on Steam Machine, which promises six times the performance of its predecessor, providing access to the vast Steam library from the comfort of your sofa.

Additionally, Valve introduced Steam Frame, a virtual reality headset that allows playing in both 2D and VR. In this regard, virtual reality games can reach up to 90 FPS, while 2D experiences will operate at a resolution of 1280 x 720 at 30 FPS.

These devices represent a significant evolution compared to the Valve Index, as Steam Frame will operate independently, without the need for a connection to a PC or base stations for motion tracking.

As Valve progresses in the development of these devices, the company has also committed to improving SteamOS, its open-source operating system designed to enhance console-like PCs.

However, many questions remain, such as the price and the exact release date, expected in 2026. This aspect is crucial, especially in a context of RAM and technology component shortages, raising concerns about final costs.

EA is in trouble: its own employees openly disdain the company's new AI-focused approach

The situation at Electronic Arts (EA) is complicated by the news that the company is in the process of being acquired by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, pending approval from international bodies. This potential purchase has led EA to intensively integrate artificial intelligence into its operations, a decision that, according to sources within the company, is generating significant challenges in day-to-day work. EA employees say no to AI EA employees have expressed their frustration in trying to adapt the artificial intelligence tools […]

The situation at Electronic Arts (EA) is complicated with the news that the company is in the process of being acquired by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, pending approval from international bodies. This potential purchase has led EA to intensively integrate artificial intelligence into its operations, a decision that, according to sources within the company, is generating significant challenges in day-to-day work.

EA employees say no to AI

EA employees have expressed their frustration in trying to adapt artificial intelligence tools to their tasks. Anonymous reports suggest that the automation of processes, such as code creation and conceptual art, has led to producing faulty results, forcing workers to manually correct errors. This lack of effectiveness is causing delays in delivery deadlines and a tense work environment.

Moreover, fears about the possible reduction of jobs have intensified. Designers and artists fear that by using AI to replicate their work, their necessity in the future may be compromised. A former employee of Respawn stated that some of the recent layoffs could be attributed to the increasing automation of tasks that were previously performed by humans.

EA has implemented mandatory courses on the use of AI, urging its employees to treat these tools as ‘partners’ in their daily work, reflecting a growing dependence on technology. According to the Game Developers Conference, 52% of video game developers are already using generative AI tools.

However, the company has also acknowledged in its annual report that the use of AI can carry social and ethical risks. EA warns that it must be handled carefully to avoid potential reputational damage and loss of trust from consumers. Given the current environment, the fusion of human creativity and automation is more critical than ever.

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The director of Helldivers 2 is clear: the problem with video games is the obsession with repeating what has already been successful

The world of video games has seen the rise of Helldivers 2 as a standout cooperative sci-fi shooter, achieving significant popularity without following the conventions of games as a service. Developed by Arrowhead Game Studios, this title invites players to face enemies in a chaotic PVE environment, which has resonated positively among millions of fans. Helldivers 2 is its own thing In a recent interview at the Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2025 with Eurogamer, Johan Pilestedt, creative director of Helldivers 2, addressed a dark topic that permeates the industry: mass layoffs. Pilestedt criticizes […]

The world of video games has seen Helldivers 2 emerge as a standout cooperative sci-fi shooter, achieving significant popularity without following the conventions of games as a service. Developed by Arrowhead Game Studios, this title invites players to face enemies in a chaotic PVE environment, which has resonated positively among millions of fans.

Helldivers 2 is its own thing

In a recent interview at the 2025 Game Developers Conference (GDC) with Eurogamer, Johan Pilestedt, creative director of Helldivers 2, addressed a dark topic that permeates the industry: mass layoffs. Pilestedt criticizes the studios’ “obsession” with replicating the success of phenomena like battle royales, which he claims has led to a lack of innovation and a vicious cycle of developer closures and job losses. “We are trapped in a cycle of death and rebirth that is unnecessarily brutal,” he notes, arguing that diversity in the types of games is crucial to avoid this situation.

The director also emphasizes that “safe bets” have been detrimental to the industry. “Few people believed that Helldivers would amount to anything, and yet here we are,” he said, suggesting that the lack of creative risk limits the chances of success in a saturated market. This bold spirit that characterizes Helldivers 2 has led the team to expand the franchise into new horizons, including the production of a movie based on the game.

Additionally, Pilestedt has made it clear that his team has no intention of dividing the gaming community through the inclusion of paid missions. “We do not want to divide players,” he reaffirmed, exemplifying Arrowhead’s commitment to providing an inclusive and accessible gaming experience for everyone.

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The developers of Silent Hill 2 Remake spent hours discussing fan theories to create The Labyrinth

The Labyrinth has established itself as one of the most terrifying and challenging areas in the classic video game Silent Hill 2, released in 2001, and its remake, which arrived in 2024. With its deeply narrative nature, the Labyrinth has generated countless theories among fans, who try to decipher its symbolism and meaning, which are not always clear throughout the games. A delicate work for a grotesque area Most fans agree that the Labyrinth is a manifestation of the protagonist, James’s grief and guilt. However, many of its symbolic elements, such as […]

A delicate job for a grotesque area

Most fans agree that the Labyrinth is a manifestation of the protagonist’s grief and guilt, James. However, many of its symbolic elements, such as the unsettling wall made of human legs and Maria’s strange behavior, leave more questions than answers, which has further opened the floor for debate among players.

Anna Oporska-Szybisz, lead level designer at Bloober Team, shared at the recent Game Developers Conference that the team dedicated a considerable amount of hours to researching fan theories while restructuring the Labyrinth for the remake. “Our main goal has always been to respect the fans and never, ever dismiss any of their theories,” she stated. Although Oporska-Szybisz admitted that she did not agree with all the theories analyzed, she came to appreciate the way fans think about the Labyrinth and made an effort to incorporate some of these elements into the remake.

Although it is uncertain which specific theories impressed the development team enough to consider them canonical, it is clear that interaction with the community has influenced the creation of this iconic segment of the game. Undoubtedly, the attention to narrative details and the team’s commitment to listening to fans can redefine the experience of Silent Hill 2 in its modern version.

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If you liked Baldur's Gate 3, you're in luck: Baldur's Gate 4 could be announced very soon

Hasbro has confirmed that it is working on future plans for the iconic RPG series Baldur’s Gate, promising news in the near future. According to Dan Ayoub, senior vice president of digital games at Hasbro, the company is in the early stages of planning but hopes to provide more details soon. “We are preparing our plans for the future and what we are going to do with that,” Ayoub stated in an interview during the recent Game Developers Conference. Baldur’s Gate 3 continues to be updated. On the other hand, Larian Studios, the developer of Baldur’s Gate 3, is preparing to release the […]

Hasbro has confirmed that it is working on future plans for the iconic RPG series Baldur’s Gate, promising news in the near future. According to Dan Ayoub, senior vice president of digital games at Hasbro, the company is in the early stages of planning but hopes to provide more details soon. “We are preparing our plans for the future and what we are going to do with that,” Ayoub stated in an interview during the recent Game Developers Conference.

Baldur’s Gate 3 while it continues to update

On the other hand, Larian Studios, the developer of Baldur’s Gate 3, is preparing to release the anticipated Patch 8, which is expected to be their last major update. This patch will include 12 new subclasses, cross-play functionality, and a photo mode, among other minor changes. Larian has indicated that their focus will shift to their next RPG project, which will not be related to Baldur’s Gate.

In April 2024, Hasbro also mentioned that they are in talks with several partners for the development of the next Baldur’s Gate game. The company’s hope is that it won’t take as long as between the previous releases, a wait of 25 years between Baldur’s Gate 2 and 3. Hasbro is confident that Baldur’s Gate 4 could be on the way before 2048, which would be a relief for fans of the franchise.

With the announcement of new developments, Baldur’s Gate fans are experiencing growing anticipation. Meanwhile, the community can continue to enjoy the available RPG experiences while waiting for these future announcements to materialize. This situation is conducive to further exploring not only the world of Baldur’s Gate but also other notable titles in the genre.

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Baldur’s Gate 3 is the latest installment of the legendary role-playing game saga set in the iconic world of Dungeons & Dragons. After 20 years of waiting, Larian Studios (Divinity: Original Sin, Divinity II) takes over from BioWare and Black Isle Studios to forge a title that promises to set new standards for the genre. With a fresh and innovative approach, while staying true to its roots, BG3 welcomes you to what is undoubtedly set to be the most influential RPG in recent years. Would you like to know why?