Gaming

Almost all games made before 2010 are ‘critically endangered’

A lot aren’t available anywhere

Published

on

Being a gamer before 2010 was fun. Before the emergence of Steam, players grabbed whatever they fancied from the shelf. Steam introduced a new way to distribute games. Though the online platform made distribution easier for players, one must ask what happens to titles released before Steam.

For certain organizations in the United States, the question is more than a lingering query. In a recent study from the Video Game History Foundation and the Software Preservation Network, researchers found that almost all of classic video games are “critically endangered.”

The term isn’t often attributed to inanimate objects, much less pieces of software. However, it’s apt for the industry. The report says that a whopping 87 percent of these games are no longer available through the proper channels. They aren’t on Steam or on brick-and-mortar stores.

Now, you might think that these games are incredibly old. Unfortunately, the report’s definition will cause you to feel old. As mentioned above, “classic video games” are those titles released before 2010 — that is, before Steam came into the picture.

Since it’s now impossible to list every single video game that came out before then, the report took a sample of 4,000 games and found that only a small portion of those titles are still easily accessible for players today.

Though the report is conclusive, the onus of preserving video games lies on the publishers. A lot of “lost” titles are available today through emulation. However, emulation is an imperfect form, further hindered by the legality of emulating games. Despite the rise of Steam, preserving old titles will still continue to be a problem for the industry.

SEE ALSO: REWIND: Handheld Gaming

Gaming

The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales out now

Physical edition available in Southeast Asia

Published

on

The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales is out now for multiple consoles and PC. In addition, a physical edition for PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch 2 is available in Southeast Asia.

Those interested in checking out the game before purchasing can also play the free demo available across all platforms. Saved data from the demo can be carried over to the full game.

There is also a physical Collector’s Edition available, which includes the base game, an original soundtrack, and a desk clock statue featuring Faie.

The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales lets players explore the World of Philabieldia in Iconic HD-2D Graphics.

The duo of Elliott and Faie traverse a vast world across four ages, teeming with enemy hordes, hidden caves, and ancient ruins.

Elliot can wield seven weapon types, ranging from close-quarters swords to versatile chains and sickles that can reel in enemies.

Each weapon is customisable through Magicite, allowing players to tailor their combat style.

Meanwhile, Faie’s powerful Magic is formidable in and out of battle, whether she’s striking enemies, retrieving hard-to-reach items, or aiding in exploration.

The ultimate goal after all the exploration, character progression, and quests in between is to lift a mysterious curse from Princess Heuria of Huther, saving humanity in the process from beast tribes.

Continue Reading

Gaming

Gundam Rogue Orbit coming to consoles, PC in 2027

Bold new take on Gundam through fast, cinematic action

Published

on

Bandai Namco Entertainment Asia has announced that Gundam Rogue Orbit is coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam in 2027.

The announcement trailer has also been released, showcasing high-mobility action. The title delivers a bold new take on Gundam through fast, cinematic combat in an all-new universe.

Gundam Rogue Orbit lets players suit up for humanity and become the pilot they were born to be.

RE-X is the protagonist and pilot of Gundam Helix. He boards the Gundam and fights to confront threats.

As players step into the cockpit, they will join a rag-tag crew of unsung soldiers, ready to face a powerful unknown threat.

Meanwhile, Sophia serves as the title’s heroine. She is a mysterious girl who monitors RE-X’s situation.

Continue Reading

Gaming

K-pop Idol Stories: Road to Debut lets you become a K-pop group’s manager

K-pop Idol management sim launches July 16th

Published

on

PQube and Wisageni Studio have announced that K-pop Idol Stories: Road to Debut will release on July 16.

The K-pop Idol management sim is launching both physically and digitally on PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, as well as digitally on Xbox Series X|S and PC (Steam).

In addition, a newly updated demo is available right now on Xbox Series X|S and Steam.

The title invites players to recruit and manage their dream K-pop group on their journey to debut — a behind-the-scenes process those well into K-pop culture and fandom are pretty knowledgeable about.

The game lets players get a taste of life as a K-pop Idol manager, navigating the unpredictable challenges of the industry. There’s scouting talent, managing schedules, choosing outfits, planning social media, and organizing the perfect album.

Players can choose from eight unique trainees, from Minji to Ai. The lineup and skillset of your group is in your hands.

As the manager, it is your job to balance stamina, finances, and workload. Moreover, the bonds you build shape every outcome. Decisions influence how each character perceives you, unlocking new encounters, storylines, and endings.

K-pop Idol Stories: Road to Debut also features exclusive music and special vocal tracks for your group’s debut, produced just for the game. In between, there are mini-games which also contribute to your success as a manager.

As players wait for the game’s release next month, the new demo offers French, German, and Spanish localization, new interactions between trainees, and improved graphics.

Continue Reading

Trending