The debate about what defines a role-playing game (RPG) has resurfaced thanks to recent comments from Emil Pagliarulo, a veteran of Bethesda Game Studios, in an interview with GamesRadar+. Pagliarulo emphasized that there is no single definition for RPGs, which has led to numerous discussions among developers and players. Although elements like leveling systems, skills, and customizable characters are common features in the genre, many developers also incorporate elements from other genres, further complicating the delineation of the term. An RPG can be many things The evolution of the RPG concept is a topic […]
The debate about what defines a role-playing game (RPG) has resurfaced thanks to recent comments from Emil Pagliarulo, a veteran of Bethesda Game Studios, in an interview with GamesRadar+. Pagliarulo emphasized that there is no single definition for RPGs, which has led to numerous discussions among developers and players. While elements like leveling systems, skills, and customizable characters are common features in the genre, many developers also incorporate elements from other genres, further complicating the delineation of the term.
An RPG can be many things
The evolution of the RPG concept is a topic that Pagliarulo points out as constant, with contemporary examples like Cyberpunk 2077 and The Outer Worlds 2. In these titles, the narrative and player decisions play a crucial role, challenging traditional definitions of the genre. “What we really learned between Fallout 4 and Starfield is that there is no single definition of an RPG,” Pagliarulo stated, adding that some players don’t even consider Cyberpunk 2077 as such.
The fact that Bethesda is working on Elder Scrolls 6 also raises expectations about how this next installment will develop within the framework of an RPG. According to Todd Howard, it can be confirmed that Elder Scrolls 6 “definitely” will feature more trees than Skyrim, which adds an element of intrigue about the location of the new game. Despite the ongoing debate about the definition of the genre, what is clear is that Bethesda is focused on providing a quality narrative, an aspect that many consider essential in the RPG experience.
With this reflection, the gaming community eagerly awaits news about Elder Scrolls 6, which promises to continue the tradition of one of the best RPGs of all time.
The recent controversy surrounding the video game Expedition 33 has sparked a broad debate about the use of artificial intelligence in the video game development industry. Sandfall Interactive, the developer behind the successful JRPG, admitted to having used generative AI technology to create some temporary textures, which were removed five days after the game’s release. This decision triggered the revocation of the ‘Game of the Year’ award at the Indie Game Awards, which has generated significant reactions in the developer community. A criticism that will not sit well among fans Chris Seavor, former developer at Rare, […]
The recent controversy surrounding the video game Expedition 33 has sparked a broad debate about the use of artificial intelligence in the video game development industry. Sandfall Interactive, the developer behind the successful JRPG, admitted to having used generative AI technology to create some temporary textures, which were removed five days after the game’s release. This decision triggered the revocation of the ‘Game of the Year’ award at the Indie Game Awards, which has generated significant reactions in the developer community.
A criticism that will not sit well with fans
Chris Seavor, former developer at Rare, expressed his discontent on Bluesky, suggesting that using AI in this way shows a lack of effort on the part of developers. “Don’t be lazy and pay for your work,” emphasized Seavor, although he also admitted that the use of AI in development may be more common than one might think. For her part, independent developer PeachyAenne highlighted the importance of unity within the community when addressing these critical issues.
The controversy has also highlighted a division in the community regarding the use of AI. Daniel Vávra, writer of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, defended the implementation of AI, arguing that it can facilitate the creation of high-quality games with smaller teams, similar to the work dynamics of past eras. However, other developers, including former members of teams behind titles like Baldur’s Gate 3, criticized the lack of transparency from some companies, insisting on the need to respect the work of employees.
This debate highlights the complexity of integrating artificial intelligence into creative processes and raises questions about ethics in video game production, as the industry continues to evolve constantly.
The year 2025 is marking a significant change in the genres of video games, particularly in RPGs and competitive shooters. One of the titles that has managed to adapt and remain relevant is Rainbow Six: Siege, which, after ten years since its release, continues to expand with new seasons and agents, fostering an active community. An update that promises to significantly change the game Ubisoft has presented the largest update in the history of the game, called Siege X, which includes the new Dual Front mode. This expansion is designed not only to attract a broader audience but to maintain the […]
The year 2025 is marking a significant change in the genres of video games, particularly in RPGs and competitive shooters. One of the titles that has managed to adapt and remain relevant is Rainbow Six: Siege, which, after ten years since its release, continues to expand with new seasons and agents, fostering an active community.
An update that promises to significantly change the game
Ubisoft has presented the largest update in the history of the game, called Siege X, which includes the new Dual Front mode. This expansion is designed not only to attract a broader audience but also to maintain the essence of gameplay that combines tactical action, destruction, and tension. Iban Nadal and Joshua Mills, two of the game’s producers, emphasize that active listening to the community has been key to the ongoing development of Siege.
Since its launch in 2015, the game has grown from 21 initial agents to 76, and from 10 maps to 21, with constant updates that include four seasons a year. This pace of change is unusual in a market where many titles have disappeared or reinvented themselves. The focus on the community has allowed Siege to evolve without losing its essence, thanks to a dedicated player base.
Despite the growing competition in the shooter genre, Ubisoft remains focused on the continuous improvement of the game and the collective growth of the esports landscape. The game’s own management acknowledges that, although there are technological limitations, the ambition to innovate remains. With the arrival of Dual Front, the team has sought to open its doors to new players without fracturing the experience that defines Siege. As the game progresses, both the director and the producer agree that the tenth anniversary is not an end, but a new beginning in its journey.
Divinity: Original Sin 2, one of the most acclaimed RPGs of the last decade, has experienced a notable price reduction on Steam, with a 75% discount bringing its price down from 44.99 euros to 11.24 euros. This adjustment is part of the Winter Sale, which ends on January 5, 2026, offering players an unbeatable opportunity to delve into the complex world of Rivellon. The endless controversy over the use of AI Developed by Larian Studios, the title has been at the center of recent controversies due to the use of artificial intelligence in the development of […]
Divinity: Original Sin 2, one of the most acclaimed RPGs of the last decade, has experienced a notable price reduction on Steam, with a 75% discount bringing its price down from 44.99 euros to 11.24 euros. This adjustment is part of the Winter Sales, which culminate on January 5, 2026, offering players an unbeatable opportunity to delve into the complex world of Rivellon.
The endless controversy of AI usage
Developed by Larian Studios, the title has been at the center of recent controversies due to the use of artificial intelligence in the development of its upcoming RPG, which has sparked debates among the gaming community. Despite the controversies, Divinity: Original Sin 2 continues to be celebrated for its captivating narrative, its system of complex relationships between characters, and its deep freedom of choice, elements that invite players to explore and experience multiple narrative paths.
The game stands out not only for its captivating narrative but also for its robust turn-based combat system and tactical decisions. Players can tackle challenges in various ways, encouraging replayability and the exploration of different outcomes in the story. The Definitive Edition also includes an Arena mode for competitive battles, adding an extra layer of fun to the title.
Beyond the 60 hours of main content, players can extend their experience through community mods, making the initial purchase a very attractive investment. Those interested in the saga can also opt for the Divine Edition, which includes additional content such as art books and the soundtrack, at a discounted price of 14.99 euros.
Just five days before Christmas, PC gaming enthusiasts have the opportunity to get their hands on more than a dozen free games. Although most of these titles come from the Epic Games Store, Steam also offers interesting options that do not require any additional cost. Imagine being one of Santa Claus’s elves One of the highlights is Toy Tinker Simulator, a relaxing first-person simulator that usually costs €12.99. Starting today, users can claim it for free through its page on Steam, with a […]
Just five days before Christmas, PC gaming enthusiasts have the opportunity to get their hands on more than a dozen free games. Although most of these titles come from the Epic Games Store, Steam also offers interesting options that do not require any additional cost.
Imagine being a Santa Claus elf
One of the most notable is Toy Tinker Simulator, a relaxing first-person simulator that usually costs €12.99. Starting today, users can claim it for free through its page on Steam, with an offer that will remain active until December 21, 2025. The process is simple: just click on ‘Add to account’ to keep the game permanently.
In Toy Tinker Simulator, players take on the role of restorers of old and damaged toys. The gameplay consists of disassembling, cleaning, repairing, painting, and reassembling various toys, from metal cars to classic dolls. Although the ratings on Steam are mixed, with negative reviews focused on its simplicity, many users find in its gameplay a space to disconnect and enjoy a nostalgic atmosphere.
In addition to this title, the company Devolver Digital is also joining the festivities by offering Minos Home: A Labyrinth on Steam, a strategy game with a festive theme. For its part, the Epic Games Store continues its tradition of Christmas gifts and allows users to download Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel, a roguelike-style ARPG full of Nordic action. With these offers, players have several options to enjoy and save during this holiday season.
In the video game industry, there are many legendary franchises, but not so many that have managed to establish themselves over the decades. Many have a couple of decades at most, and the longest-lasting ones tend to be Japanese. This is logical considering that the Japanese market has never faced the cataclysmic problems that the American market has and has managed to have much greater prominence than the much more fragmented European market. That doesn’t mean there aren’t great franchises in the West. And one of them has become the latest big sensation in pop culture. Thanks […]
In the video game industry, there are many legendary franchises, but not so many that have managed to establish themselves over the decades. Many have a couple of decades at most, and the longest-lasting ones tend to be Japanese. This is logical considering that the Japanese market has never faced the catastrophic problems that the American market has and has managed to have much greater prominence than the European market, which is much more fragmented.
This does not mean that there are no great franchises in the West. And one of them has become the latest big sensation in pop culture. Thanks to an excellent first season of its series, Fallout is now on everyone’s lips. Something that does not seem to be changing with its second season.
The Fallout series places us in the year 2296 after the Great War of 2077 led to a massive nuclear exchange between the US and China. After two hundred years in bunkers, the survivors of the catastrophe began to emerge from their Vaults little by little after several generations living there. Some by their own choice, others because they had no other option. In the case of Lucy MacLean, a young inhabitant of Vault 33, her situation is the latter. After raiders from the Wasteland kidnap her father, she will have to leave the safety of the Vault to venture into the inhospitable thermonuclear desert of the future.
Only to discover that it is less inhospitable than I expected. In the more than 200 years since the war, a new society has been created in the desert, many humans have mutated into scavengers and literal mutants, and the retrofuturistic technology of this alternative world continues, to some extent, to function. With The Wasteland having its own technology and factions fighting against each other, Lucy soon discovers that it will not be easy to find her father not because everything there is empty and full of dangers, but because it is full of people and full of dangers.
That is its premise and why its first season worked well. It is plausible, it is funny, and moreover, it has no problem subverting our expectations. The people who join Lucy, the peculiar squire Maximus, and the even more peculiar bounty hunter Cooper, are authentic characters, and besides, it is exactly what Fallout has always been: a franchise about the absurdity of humanity.
Some video games that have always been about the same thing
Fallout was created by Tim Cain and Leonard Boyarski in 1997 at Interplay. Being an immediate success, particularly in Europe, it presented us with a USA devastated by nuclear war, obsessed with its own past, and with an incomprehensible retro futurism. Thanks to its success, just a year later, they released Fallout 2, and in 2001, a spinoff, the underrated Fallout Tactics.
Unfortunately, the studio did not survive the ups and downs of the market. With RPGs becoming less popular in an era that prioritized elaborate graphics over the quality and depth of stories, they watched as the franchise fell into oblivion. Although not for very long. A company called Bethesda bought the rights to the franchise in 2004 for $1,175,000. A deal that, to this day, seems like a very wise purchase.
In 2008, the studio released Fallout 3 for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC. It wasn’t as deep and systemic as the original games and no longer had the same dark and depressing sense of humor, but it was much more agile, easy to play, and above all, it had spectacular graphics for the time. It is also true that it had an obscene amount of bugs, but that didn’t stop the public from acclaiming it: it was great. At least, until a studio formed by former Interplay employees decided to make their own version. And to show that Bethesda had barely scratched the surface.
In 2010, and publishing for the same platforms, Obsidian Entertainment released Fallout: New Vegas. Considered by most fans to be the best Fallout to date, it has the gameplay simplicity of Fallout 3 and its spectacular graphics, but recaptures the humor and depth of the original games. Its only problem being that it is one of the most broken games in video game history. Released to the market filled with bugs, it received harsh criticism because, at times, it could be unplayable. Even if, over time, it has proven to be one of the greatest cult games in video game history.
Fallout has never reached the levels of respect and celebration that New Vegas achieved. Something that has never sat well with Bethesda and particularly with its head, Todd Howard. That is why Obsidian has never had the opportunity to work on another installment of the franchise.
More Fallout for everyone (and the series in New Vegas)
After the success of New Vegas, it would take them 5 years to return to the franchise, but they would do so with a tremendously divisive game: Fallout 4. Visually spectacular, but with a marked division of opinions between those who think it is the weakest entry in the franchise and those who believe it simply does not have as strong writing as previous entries, it would integrate many more systemic elements in the style of Bethesda’s other flagship series, The Elder Scrolls. Allowing players to build houses and inhabit The Wasteland, that would be its main selling point. Making you feel like you were truly living in the post-apocalypse.
Something they would take even further with their latest release to date. Fallout 76, released in 2018 for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, was an absolute disaster at launch. Broken everywhere, nonsensical in its design, and with nothing to do, it was universally hated by critics and fans alike. But at Bethesda, they took the task of fixing it seriously. So much so that, over the years, it has become a highly regarded and beloved MMORPG, continuously expanding, celebrated as an excellent gateway into the Fallout universe.
Meanwhile, the series continues to draw inspiration particularly from the main installments of the franchise. While the first season seems to generally draw from the tone of Fallout 3 and Fallout New Vegas, rather than the originals or the more recent ones, this second season explicitly takes place in New Vegas, the setting of Fallout New Vegas. Demonstrating that they know exactly what the franchise’s strong point is.
In any case, Todd Howard has already said that this is just a stop along the way. His wish for the Fallout series is that it focuses on the future in the events of Fallout 76, even if it chronologically does not fit with the series as Fallout 76 takes place in 2102 and the series in 2296, 15 and 9 years after Fallout New Vegas and Fallout 4 respectively.
In any case, it seems that we have Fallout for a while longer. And whatever the series and the franchise have in store for us, what is clear is that Bethesda knows that what they have in hand has reached a broader audience. And they don’t want to let it slip away.
The Burning Springs update for Fallout 76 has been recently released, and Bethesda Game Studios hopes that this expansion will attract fans who follow the series through Amazon’s television adaptation. Todd Howard, the studio’s executive producer, emphasized that Fallout 76 is the project they are focusing on most intensely at this moment, despite his previous comments indicating that Elder Scrolls 6 might be taking up more development resources. Burning Springs is made for you In a talk during the Future Games Show, Howard mentioned: “Fallout 76 is the game that we are […]
The Burning Springs update for Fallout 76 has been recently released, and Bethesda Game Studios hopes that this expansion will attract fans who are following the series through Amazon’s television adaptation. Todd Howard, the studio’s executive producer, emphasized that Fallout 76 is the project they are currently focusing on most intensely, despite his previous comments indicating that Elder Scrolls 6 might be taking up more development resources.
Burning Springs is made for you
In a talk during the Future Games Show, Howard mentioned: “Fallout 76 is the game we are working on the most. The new update is available, and if you’re watching the show and thinking ‘I want to experience that’, 76 is just incredible.” This statement highlights Bethesda’s ongoing commitment to the post-apocalyptic world of Fallout as they seek to capture the attention of new players drawn in by the television series.
Additionally, Walton Goggins’ return to his iconic role as Ghoul in Fallout 76 represents a significant milestone for the franchise’s followers. Howard described this return as a “full circle” moment, where players can experience narrative experiences inspired by the television series. This interaction between different media, games, and series aims to provide a more cohesive and immersive experience for fans.
However, the conversation has also delved into the realm of RPGs and their divisiveness. Howard and other developers, such as those from Obsidian, have reflected on the comparisons their titles face, such as Avowed and Baldur’s Gate 3, highlighting the uniqueness of their narrative approaches and gameplay mechanics. As we enter the holiday season, Howard suggests that Fallout 76 is the ideal choice for those seeking an immersive RPG experience amidst the festive bustle.
Today marks 30 years since the release of Tales of Phantasia, a game that not only revolutionized the RPG genre but also laid the groundwork for one of the most enduring and successful franchises in the medium. Developed by Wolf Team, the title was originally released on the Super Famicom during a period considered the “golden age” of RPGs, alongside classics like Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy VI. An absolute rarity that marked an era. Over the last three decades, Tales of Phantasia has been acclaimed for its innovative Linear Motion Battle System, which […]
Today marks the 30th anniversary of the release of Tales of Phantasia, a game that not only revolutionized the RPG genre but also laid the groundwork for one of the most enduring and successful franchises in the medium. Developed by Wolf Team, the title was originally released on the Super Famicom during a period considered the “golden age” of RPGs, alongside classics like Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy VI.
An absolute rarity that marked an era
Over the last three decades, Tales of Phantasia has been acclaimed for its innovative Linear Motion Battle System, which introduced real-time combat, breaking away from the traditional turn-based combat structures of the time. This system allowed players to execute combos of unique arts, giving each character their own fighting style. This approach has influenced dozens of sequels and spin-offs within the franchise, as well as other titles like Star Ocean.
Despite a narrative that starts off simply, the story becomes darker and more complex as it progresses, trapping players in a world full of conflict and deep characters. From the beginning, Cress Albane, the protagonist, faces personal tragedies that transform him and lead him to question his family legacy. This focus on complex characters and their individual development is complemented by the Skit system, which offers optional conversations that enrich the narrative experience.
The striking duality between the colorful appearance of the game and its dark narrative has left an indelible mark on the RPG genre. As time goes by, Tales of Phantasia remains a pillar in the evolution of video games, demonstrating that a title can age gracefully and remain relevant. Undoubtedly, its legacy lives on in every new installment of the Tales saga.
Larian Studios has surprised RPG fans with the release of a free upgrade for Divinity: Original Sin 2, available on next-gen consoles like PS5, Xbox Series, and Nintendo Switch 2. This update is aimed at those who already own the game on old-gen consoles, providing the perfect opportunity to rediscover this work, considered one of the best in its genre. It’s never too late The news comes after the recent presentation of the new title in the saga, announced during The Game Awards 2025, which has rekindled interest in Divinity: Original Sin 2, like […]
Larian Studios has surprised RPG fans with the release of a free upgrade for Divinity: Original Sin 2, available on next-generation consoles like PS5, Xbox Series, and Nintendo Switch 2. This update is aimed at those who already own the game on old-gen consoles, providing the perfect opportunity to rediscover this work, considered one of the best in its genre.
It’s never too late
The news comes after the recent presentation of the new title in the saga, announced during The Game Awards 2025, which has rekindled interest in Divinity: Original Sin 2, as evidenced by the notable increase in the number of concurrent players on Steam. This phenomenon may have also resonated on console platforms, where many players are returning to immerse themselves in the world of Rivellon. Larian invites players to experience a world where their decisions profoundly affect the narrative and gameplay experience.
The new title of Divinity has been designed in such a way that it is not necessary to have played the previous installments to enjoy it; however, there will be nods for the more veteran fans of the series. The game allows players to create their own characters, explore a reactive world, and make decisions that impact the development of the story, whether solo or in cooperative mode.
With intriguing phrases like The Divine is dead and promises of an environment where the titles from the Belgian studio shine in narrative and customization, Larian Studios is preparing players for a new epic adventure. Given the positive reviews that Divinity: Original Sin 2 has received, the free upgrade represents not only a gift for longtime fans but also an excellent gateway for new players who wish to explore the rich fantasy that the saga offers.
Despite not receiving awards at the recent The Game Awards, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 has been recognized as the best RPG of the year by many, including industry critics. A game that has managed to captivate audiences. One of the most notable features of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is its deliberate pace. Unlike other RPGs that favor quick progression, this title presents a challenging start where players must learn to survive in a hostile medieval world. This approach, while it may be frustrating for some, aims to provide a more immersive and rewarding experience, […]
One of the most notable features of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is its deliberate pace. Unlike other RPGs that favor rapid progression, this title presents a challenging start where players must learn to survive in a hostile medieval world. This approach, while it may be frustrating for some, aims to provide a more immersive and rewarding experience, where each victory feels genuinely earned.
The development team has worked to make the game more accessible and polished, allowing players to easily understand the mechanics, such as death and game objectives. This balance between difficulty and accessibility has been crucial for the game’s success, even while maintaining an element of challenge that characterizes contemporary RPGs, drawing inspiration from titles like Dark Souls and Elden Ring.
Warhorse has also highlighted the freedom and support provided by its publisher, Plaion, which has led the game to exceed financial expectations. The developers believe that there is still great potential for original ideas in the industry, suggesting that the success of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 demonstrates that more niche video games can reach a wide audience.
Although the future of the series is uncertain, both Prokop Jirsa and Tobias Stolz-Zwilling, key members of the team, express their desire to continue exploring and developing rich narratives in the world of Bohemia. In the meantime, fans can continue to enjoy the multiple traditions of this acclaimed RPG.
