Gait Games

**Myrient: A Final Goodbye to a Retro Gaming Preservation Hub**

Myrient, a digital haven for retro video game aficionados, is preparing to shut down in about 30 days, signaling the conclusion of an era for a platform committed to safeguarding gaming history. Established by Alexey in October 2022, Myrient has gathered an impressive repository of more than 390 terabytes of well-organized video game archives. Always free of ads, paywalls, and logins, Myrient has provided an invaluable resource to enthusiasts and historians of classic gaming over the last three years.

**The Monetary Burden of Preservation**

The choice to close stems from escalating operational expenses driven primarily by rising costs of essential hardware components like RAM, SSDs, and HDDs. This increase in expenses is partly linked to the growing demands of AI data centers, which have created an untenable financial landscape for services that depend on large-scale data storage. Alexey has indicated that sustaining Myrient’s servers has become economically unfeasible, with monthly costs surpassing $6,000.

Further complicating financial difficulties, while user traffic on Myrient has been on the rise, contributions from the community have stagnated. As Alexey shared on Myrient’s official Discord channel, he has been covering the shortfall personally, a scenario he described as “not sustainable.” The conflict between soaring costs and unchanging donations has ultimately led to the tough decision to shut down the site.

**Obstacles from Specialized Download Managers**

Alongside financial issues, Myrient has encountered technical difficulties with a new trend of specialized download managers that circumvent the site’s anti-download-limit measures. These managers have succeeded in bypassing donation prompts and download restrictions, contravening Myrient’s pledge to prevent commercial exploitation of its resources. Alexey has stressed that such exploitation of the platform cannot be ignored any longer, heightening the urgency of the decision to halt operations.

**What Awaits**

Myrient is scheduled to continue operating until March 31, 2026; however, starting February 26, the introduction of new content will stop. Alexey advises users to focus on downloading any important files they may need as the deadline nears. He also mentioned that any donations received during this period will be strictly allocated to cover the site’s escalating hosting costs rather than expanding its collections.

As Myrient nears its closure, the community that has gathered around it reflects on the cultural and historical importance of the site. For many, it has been more than just a resource; it has been a crucial connection to the history of gaming—a place where nostalgia intertwines with preservation. The approaching shutdown serves as a reminder to users of the fragile balance between operational viability and the passion that drives the preservation of gaming history.

**The Thrilling Comeback of Pokémon in “Winds and Waves”**

Whenever a fresh Pokémon game is revealed, enthusiasts eagerly ponder which cherished creatures will rejoin the lineup. The forthcoming game, *Winds and Waves*, scheduled for release on the Switch 2 next year, has sparked this enthusiasm once more. During the recent Pokémon Presents, preliminary footage showcased multiple returning Pokémon that are set to appear in this edition.

### New Starters and Well-Known Faces

Thus far, the only newly confirmed Pokémon are the trio of starter Pokémon: Browt, Pombon, and Gecqua. The first trailer displayed a variety of recognizable creatures from earlier generations, offering a sneak peek into the upcoming Pokédex. Here’s a detailed list of the Pokémon we are aware of up to this point:

– Browt
– Pombon
– Gecqua
– Pikachu
– Gloom
– Tropius
– Wailmer
– Wailord
– Nymble
– Tailow
– Tangela
– Oddish
– Ledyba
– Ledian
– Slugma
– Sizzlipede
– Wingull
– Krabby
– Sandygast
– Corsola
– Mareanie
– Toxapex
– Tympole
– Carnivine
– Duskull
– Lumineon
– Tynamo
– Frillish

Considering these Pokémon were prominently featured in the trailer, it’s probable that their evolutions will also be included unless they receive regional variants that modify their evolution paths. The following evolutions are expected:

– Pichu
– Raichu
– Vileplume
– Bellossom
– Lokix
– Swellow
– Tangrowth
– Macargo
– Centiskorch
– Pelipper
– Kingler
– Palossand
– Palpitoad
– Seismitoad
– Jellicent

### The Anticipation Ahead

*Pokémon Winds and Waves* is anticipated to launch next year, marking a two-year interval since the previous RPG in the series, *Legends: Z-A*, which premiered in October 2025. The excitement for the game is tangible, particularly as The Pokémon Company commemorates the franchise’s 30th anniversary with an array of events and new titles, including *Pokopia* and *Pokémon Champions*.

With returning classics and fresh additions, 2026 is shaping up to be an exhilarating year for Pokémon fans, teeming with adventures and nostalgia as they immerse themselves in the world of *Winds and Waves*.

**Amazon’s Live-Action God of War Series: Initial Look Prompts Mixed Reactions**

Earlier today, Amazon released the first image from its much-anticipated live-action adaptation of the legendary video game series *God of War*, featuring Ryan Hurst as Kratos and Callum Vinson as Atreus. The reveal has swiftly turned into a hot topic amongst fans and critics, with numerous individuals voicing disappointment over the initial depiction of these cherished characters.

In the aftermath of the image’s release, social media has experienced a surge of reactions, largely critical in nature. While some users manage to identify silver linings or remain impartial, a substantial segment of the online community has been vocal about their discontent. The general sentiment seems to be that the representation of Kratos, in particular, falls short of the elevated expectations set by the franchise’s rich narrative and character design.

Series enthusiasts have been eagerly anticipating this image since the live-action adaptation was first confirmed in 2022. However, the unveiling of the photo appears to have introduced uncertainty regarding the project’s visual fidelity to the original material. This apprehension arises from the preliminary impression that the actors might not embody the characters as authentically as fans wish for a storyline as impactful as that of the games.

Notable voices on Twitter have expressed their thoughts, with some users questioning the creative decisions behind the series’ visual style and others merely conveying a sense of déjà vu in the character representations. As the critiques came flooding in, it became clear that numerous fans couldn’t help but draw comparisons between this first look and other adaptations that may have struggled to capture the essence of their original content.

Despite the shaky beginning, there remains hope for redemption as the series evolves. The *God of War* live-action project has already received a green light for a second season, indicating Amazon’s confidence in its prospects. With Ronald D. Moore serving as showrunner, fans are left to speculate whether this image is merely a disappointing initial impression or a teaser of a grander vision that will unfold in the upcoming years.

Currently, a release date has not been established, but early 2027 is anticipated for the show’s debut. As fans continue to analyze the initial reveal, excitement persists regarding how the series will bring the epic journey of Kratos and Atreus to life on screen. For those seeking updates and additional information regarding the cast and production, further details can be found in articles discussing the series’ ongoing development.

**The Prospects of the Pokémon Trading Card Game in Light of Game Release Modifications**

As we gaze into the future of the Pokémon brand, the excitement for a new mainline Pokémon title in 2025 has been dampened, prompting fans to consider the consequences for the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG). Historically, the card game flourished on a three-year timeline, launching themed sets that aligned with new creatures and features introduced in the video games. With the anticipated gap in mainline releases in 2025, the future of the TCG appears ambiguous.

In reaction to this transition, the Pokémon Company has opted to bring back a cherished feature: Mega Evolution. This revival is loosely associated with the expected happenings of Pokémon Z-A, although it primarily aims to invoke nostalgia rather than directly connect with a new game storyline. Nonetheless, the announcement that Pokémon Winds and Waves will not be released until 2027 raises additional inquiries regarding the TCG’s trajectory.

During the recent Pokémon Presents event, commemorating the franchise’s 30th anniversary, a short and enigmatic statement concerning the TCG surfaced. The most prominent unveiling was that future card launches would take place simultaneously across the globe for the very first time, contrasting the typical Japan-first rollout model. Traditionally, Japanese sets would be unveiled first, followed by a delayed international release with modified packaging and card arrangement.

The minute-long video highlighted a variety of cherished cards from the TCG’s three-decade legacy, showcased in multiple languages. However, the precise intent of this compilation remains vague. Some speculate that the featured cards indicate potential inclusions in forthcoming anniversary collections. Outlets like Wargamer express faith in this hypothesis, pointing to the global release as a sign of an international anniversary celebration.

Conversely, skeptics contend that the showcasing of classic cards was mainly aimed at reviewing the TCG’s historical timeline instead of suggesting future content. The displayed cards advanced chronologically, beginning with iconic cards like the original Pikachu (affectionately known as “Chonkachu”) and the renowned holo Charizard, before including noteworthy selections from different eras—each labeled by its regional title in various languages.

A notable detail is the inclusion of the Chinese Solgaleo GX card, which raises questions as it was only available in China following the launch of the Storming Emergence Radiant set in 2022. This discrepancy fuels speculation about the rationale behind this montage, implying it could be a mere oversight in card selection rather than a conscious indication of an upcoming release.

Historically, the Pokémon TCG has celebrated milestones with special collections, such as the 25th Anniversary Celebrations set in 2021, featuring reprints of iconic cards marked with a unique Pikachu emblem, or the 2016 XY Evolutions set that reintroduced Base Set cards. Given this history, re-releasing classic cards for the 30th anniversary seems feasible.

As the Pokémon Company adapts to this new environment, they have been approached for clarification on the details of the forthcoming set. However, with the anticipated release not projected until October of this year, any comprehensive information may remain concealed until after the current Mega Evolutions phase concludes.

In summary, while the short-term outlook for the Pokémon TCG is indeterminate against the backdrop of changing mainline game releases, the enthusiasm surrounding anniversary sets and the potential for new card revivals continue to captivate fans and collectors. The forthcoming years are sure to be pivotal in shaping the future of the Pokémon TCG as it adjusts to the evolving requirements of the franchise and its community.

### The Game Boy Jukebox Returns, Nintendo’s Stock Repurchase, and More: Morning Checkpoint

In a thrilling turn of events for gamers, the cherished Game Boy is making a whimsical comeback as the **Game Boy Jukebox**, which solely plays music tracks from the Kanto region’s iconic Pokémon games, **Red** and **Blue**. Revealed during the **Pokémon 30th Anniversary Presents**, this charming yet peculiar lo-fi device requires users to insert one of 45 distinct cartridges to enjoy their chosen track. With a surprisingly steep price of $70, it serves as both a collectible for enthusiasts and a potential resource for DIY chiptune musicians interested in homebrew customizations. The Game Boy Jukebox is slated to **launch later today**, promising to be a nostalgic addition to any collection.

### Disgaea Moves into Action-RPG

In another intriguing update, the **Disgaea** franchise is expanding its horizons with the latest title, **Disgaea Mayhem**. This spin-off reimagines the tactical JRPG as a real-time action brawler, featuring a candy-loving mercenary equipped with various weapons familiar to fans of the series. Though early trailers indicate somewhat floaty and rigid gameplay mechanics, enthusiasm remains high for the title expected to debut on **Switch, PS5, and PC this summer**.

### Fallout 76 Update Enhances XP Rewards

The **66th update for Fallout 76** has brought significant enhancements to in-game events, enriching the overall player experience. XP rewards are now adjusted according to player levels, with numerous events offering quicker completion times to alleviate monotony. Newly updated map icons are designed to improve player navigation and interaction with events. This update might encourage players to return to Appalachia and discover these enhancements.

### Nintendo’s Huge Stock Repurchase

In corporate developments, Nintendo is making headlines with a staggering **$1.9 billion stock repurchase**, mainly from significant institutional banks like **MUFG Bank** and the **Bank of Kyoto**. This strategic initiative aims to reassure concerned investors, especially amid external pressure on companies to minimize exposure to outside shareholder influence.

### He-Man’s Nostalgic Beat-Em-Up Release Date Announced

Fans of classic animation have a reason to cheer as the upcoming **He-Man and the Masters of the Universe: Dragon Pearl of Destruction** has officially announced its release date of **April 28** across all major consoles and PC platforms. The newly unveiled trailer captures vibrant nostalgia promising classic gameplay, while also raising hopes for improved mechanics compared to previous licensed retro games.

### Guidance for Microsoft’s New Gaming CEO

In a recent interview, former Xbox executive **Peter Moore** extended his support and counsel to **Asha Sharma**, the newly appointed Microsoft Gaming CEO. Moore stressed the significance of concentrating initially on the internal dynamics of the company and suggested a ‘listening tour’ to gain a better understanding of the varied opinions and perspectives within the gaming sector. He also advised careful consideration when addressing sensitive issues such as AI throughout her term.

### ICYMI

For enthusiasts of unconventional gaming content, check out **Balatro University**, which features innovative gameplay with an impressive 755 card deck devoid of Jokers, showcased by **DrSpectred** on social media.

Stay tuned for more gaming news and happenings in the next edition of Morning Checkpoint from Kotaku!

**Pokémon Winds and Waves: Is the Graphics Curse Finally Broken?**

In an exciting turn of events for Pokémon enthusiasts, the forthcoming games *Pokémon Winds* and *Waves* are sparking interest due to what seems to be a significant enhancement in graphics and technical capabilities. This development follows the heavily criticized *Scarlet* and *Violet* titles, which gained notoriety for their graphical deficiencies and technical issues since their 2022 launch.

*Scarlet* and *Violet* were the final exclusive games for the Nintendo Switch, plagued by inadequate visual quality and a slew of bugs. Players remarked that the games felt like outdated tech demonstrations from previous gaming generations, especially when navigating their vast yet uninspired maps. Although an update for the Switch 2 enabled these titles to function at a smoother 60 frames per second, the visual quality still left much to be desired. In contrast, the trailers for *Winds* and *Waves* have revealed a significant enhancement in graphical quality, showcasing improved dynamic lighting, shading, and water physics.

The initial trailers for *Winds* and *Waves* hint at a more visually engaging experience. While the Pokémon models still bear some resemblance to their forebears, they seem to exhibit more refined texturing. Observers have pointed out that the overall visual presentation appears less static and flat compared to earlier entries, providing a more refreshing aesthetic. Although comparisons indicate that *Winds* and *Waves* are not revolutionary regarding graphical realism, there is a consensus that they embody the most vibrant visuals the franchise has offered in years.

Reactions on social media have been largely positive, with fans sharing side-by-side comparisons of the new trailers against the original footage of *Scarlet* and *Violet*. A number of fans have conveyed their astonishment at the noticeable improvement in visual quality, with some applauding the water effects—often targeted in past Pokémon titles—as greatly enhanced. Voices on Twitter range from excitement to relief, highlighting that the prominent graphical shortcomings seen in previous games appear to be resolved.

Nevertheless, this advancement is met with a persistent wariness from long-time fans. Many prefer to withhold judgment on *Winds* and *Waves* as a total resurgence until they experience the final product at launch. Critics of Pokémon’s recent technical output remain steadfast, recognizing that despite improvements, the standard was relatively low given the history of the series. Fans are encouraging Game Freak to uphold this newfound standard while also focusing on crafting captivating narratives alongside the enhanced graphics.

While it is evident that the graphics in *Winds* and *Waves* represent progress, the true test will be if Game Freak can maintain this quality throughout development and create an experience that fulfills fan expectations. As the release date nears, many are optimistic that these titles will signal a new chapter for Pokémon, marked by both visual creativity and engaging storytelling.

In summary, *Pokémon Winds* and *Waves* are set to redefine the franchise’s graphical potential, and excitement is mounting as fans look forward to their release on the Switch 2 next year.

**The Recent Nintendo Switch Ports of Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen: Insights from Dataminers**

The launch of the Nintendo Switch ports for **Pokémon FireRed** and **LeafGreen** has stirred excitement among fans and dataminers. In just hours post-launch, an abundance of information has been discovered from the game’s ROMs, unveiling both thrilling features and some disappointing modifications.

One notable finding is the limitation on naming characters and rivals within the game. Players can no longer utilize profanity, which might impact the playful spirit of rival names that fans have appreciated in earlier games. This adjustment, while not surprising from a family-focused entity like Nintendo, has ignited discussions in the community, particularly about the nostalgia tied to the original games.

Additionally, players have already noted the availability of time-sensitive distribution items, the **Aurora Ticket** and **Mystic Ticket**, enabling players to shiny-hunt **Deoxys**. The reintroduction of these special items serves as a nostalgic reminder of Pokémon events and may offset the unsettling news about character naming limitations.

However, the revelation by a dataminer named **Yakumono/LuigiBlood** has truly piqued the community’s interest. Their analysis suggests that the emulator employed for these ports reportedly supports ROMs from **Pokémon Sapphire**, **Ruby**, and **Emerald**, hinting that Nintendo may be considering expanding the GBA library on the Switch and potentially the Switch 2.

LuigiBlood’s findings indicate that the emulator, referred to as **Sloop**, is the same one utilized by Nintendo for other GBA titles in the Nintendo Classics collection, and it seems that the ROMs for FireRed and LeafGreen have been modified significantly. LuigiBlood speculated that the insights uncovered point to “emulator hacks for specific games,” which could suggest forthcoming support for additional Pokémon titles.

While the idea of more classic Pokémon games being added to the Switch/Wii U library is enticing, LuigiBlood has advised against excessive enthusiasm. He stressed that the data stands as a snapshot of the existing code rather than a finalized guide. Though it implies possible plans from Nintendo, there is no assurance that any other titles will be rolled out soon.

In conclusion, the release of Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen on the Nintendo Switch has not only sparked nostalgia but also opened the floor for speculation regarding future classic titles within the Pokémon series. As dataminers continue to explore the game’s code, fans remain eagerly awaiting what revelations might arise next, weighing the bittersweet changes against the thrill of potential new releases.

**Stardew Valley Marks 10 Years with New Marriage Options: Sandy and Clint**

As *Stardew Valley* commemorates its 10th anniversary this Thursday, developer ConcernedApe has revealed thrilling new additions scheduled for the highly awaited 1.7 update, including the introduction of two fresh marriage candidates: Sandy and Clint.

Sandy, an intriguing character, manages the Oasis found in the Calico Desert, a noteworthy late-game location that players can reach after investing considerable time in their farming activities. Her mysterious nature and charm have made her a highly sought-after addition to the marriage options, offering a unique romantic choice free from controversy.

On the other hand, Clint, the blacksmith in Pelican Town, is a figure who has received mixed reviews from the player community. Although he appears frequently in players’ daily routines, his unsettling obsession with Emily, another marriage candidate, has elicited criticism and disdain from many fans. This fixation has resulted in a negative perception of him, making his inclusion as a marriage choice feel like a contentious decision by the developers.

Reactions on social media highlight this divide. One user stated, “not a single person opens stardew and goes yeah I wanna marry clint,” reflecting the general sentiment against Clint’s romantic appeal. Others have approached the topic with humor, sharing darkly funny scenarios about Clint’s character. For instance, various tweets illustrate players joking about Clint’s possible outcomes after being spurned in favor of Emily, lamenting how the announcement has left them feeling hopeless.

Clint’s actions within the game further escalate the debate. He is often depicted lurking, penning unsolicited messages to Emily and requesting the player to deliver gifts on his behalf, signaling a self-pitying inclination that many find off-putting. The community’s feedback has been largely negative, with numerous players expressing disbelief and concern regarding his new marriage potential.

Despite the criticism, some players remain hopeful, suggesting that there could be opportunities for Clint to evolve over time. Nonetheless, the prevailing sentiment holds true: for numerous players, Clint’s newfound status as a marriage candidate has ignited a spirited discussion, leading many to gravitate towards the fresh appeal of Sandy instead.

As *Stardew Valley* progresses, the introduction of these characters showcases the balance developers aspire to achieve between diving into richer narratives and catering to player expectations. The forthcoming updates promise new adventures for fans, even as conversations about cherished characters shift and challenge community feelings.

### The Much-Awaited Bloodborne Remake: A Tale of Aspirations and Disappointments

For an extended period, PlayStation enthusiasts have been voicing their desires for a remake of the highly praised game *Bloodborne*. As a standout title during the PS4 generation, *Bloodborne* has cultivated a devoted fanbase that continues to promote its revival with updated graphics and gameplay improvements. Many held the belief that Bluepoint Games, the studio behind the successful remake of *Demon’s Souls*, was the perfect choice to take on this task.

A report from Bloomberg confirmed that Bluepoint Games did indeed propose a *Bloodborne* remake to Sony recently. Nevertheless, the feedback from FromSoftware, the original developers of *Bloodborne*, was a definitive rejection of the suggestion. Many at Bluepoint had expected that a remake was simply a matter of time; however, their dreams were shattered when they learned that FromSoftware did not endorse their plans.

In 2025, following the cancellation of another endeavor, Bluepoint searched for other opportunities, exploring concepts such as a spin-off of *Ghost of Tsushima* and various remakes, but Sony never approved these propositions. The situation only underscored the challenges faced by Bluepoint after the setback associated with *Bloodborne*.

Shuhei Yoshida, a former PlayStation executive, shed light on this rejection, implying that Hidetaka Miyazaki, the creator of *Bloodborne*, might have been protective of his work. In an interview, Yoshida speculated that although Miyazaki is very attached to *Bloodborne*, his hectic schedule prevents him from engaging in a remake. Therefore, it appears he would prefer not to have anyone else modify his vision, leading Sony to honor this decision.

This protective attitude from FromSoftware suggests that a remake could potentially come directly from the original creators in the future. However, for the time being, fans yearning for a revival of one of the prior generation’s leading games are left feeling disheartened, particularly since *Bloodborne* is presently limited to the PS4 platform.

Compounding Bluepoint’s difficulties, the studio ultimately faced closure, as Sony lost faith in their capacity to produce high-quality original titles. The intended *God of War* live-service game, designed to feature co-op gameplay with Atreus, did not come to fruition and added to the studio’s challenges. In a cruel turn of events, Sony opted to proceed with a remake of its original *God of War* trilogy without leveraging the expertise of Bluepoint, a studio renowned for its beloved remakes.

In conclusion, the elusive *Bloodborne* remake continues to be a hot topic among fans. While the hope for a renewed version of the game may still flicker, the reality is that for now, *Bloodborne* will remain as it is—one of the last remarkable treasures of the PS4 generation, awaiting the right moment and developer to usher it back into the limelight.

### The Mysterious Final Conundrum in Resident Evil Requiem

Resident Evil Requiem has drawn in gamers not just for its captivating narrative and gameplay but especially for a daunting and enigmatic aspect referred to as “The Final Conundrum.” Even though reviewers have had ample time to engage with the game, the conundrum remains unresolved, leaving players curious and eager to uncover its mysteries.

#### Summary of the Conundrum

The Final Conundrum is presented near the conclusion of the initial act in Resident Evil Requiem. Players step into the shoes of Grace as she traverses the perilous surroundings of Rhodes Hill Chronic Care Center while being chased by a terrifying entity known as The Girl. Amid this chilling pursuit, The Girl loses one of her hands, a collectible that players can obtain. While its primary function seems ambiguous at first, this detached hand is crucial to unlocking the conundrum’s greater enigmas.

After players acquire the hand, they can inspect it using microscopes located in the Blood Lab or the West Wing’s Office. Analyzing the hand discloses a cryptic message that states:

“Let’s play.
GGC AAG AUA ACG UGU CAU”

This sequence bears resemblance to an RNA sequence and acts as a hint connected to one of the code-locked safes encountered previously in the game. Nevertheless, the intricacy does not cease here; it morphs into additional layers of riddles that demand knowledge extending far beyond the conventional gaming experience.

#### The Community’s Reaction and Ongoing Quest for Answers

As leading gaming platforms such as IGN and VGC cover this elusive conundrum, players are actively joining forces to unravel its secrets. IGN has been refreshing its guide in reaction to new hints discovered by players. The conundrum has proven to be a formidable challenge, signaling that veteran gamers are still trying to traverse its intricacies even days after the game’s launch.

Amid the clues scattered across the game is a fascinating remark from the challenge list: players will have solved The Final Conundrum when “the sweet pair hear the voice.” The significance of this cryptic expression adds yet another layer of intrigue that has prompted the community to speculate.

#### Closing Thoughts

The Final Conundrum of Resident Evil Requiem exemplifies the game’s complexities and the commitment of its community. As players persist in analyzing the clues and sharing their findings, the conundrum has cultivated a cooperative atmosphere reminiscent of earlier gaming eras, where individuals would unite to tackle intricate challenges. With the search for solutions still underway, it’s evident that the mystery surrounding The Final Conundrum will leave a notable impact in the gaming realm, keeping players engaged long after they’ve finished the principal storyline.