Games Inbox: Sony controversy over publishing Stellar Blade

"Only on PlayStation: Stellar Blade review, Sony's game lineup, Ubisoft's Infinity, and Fallout 5 suggestions. Nostalgia, Kingdom Hearts, and Shadow Of The Erdtree."

Only on PlayStation

The review of Stellar Blade by GC was fair and well thought out. It must have been challenging to review a game that has good gameplay but is surrounded by controversy. The decision by Sony to publish this game without addressing the character design, which seems inappropriate for a game aiming to be inclusive, is puzzling. The character's appearance could potentially impact the game's reception and audience negatively.

Moreover, the high price of the game is off-putting. While it is common for Sony games to be priced at £70, it seems unreasonable to pay this amount for a new IP with good but not outstanding reviews. It is likely that the game will be discounted soon, making the initial full price seem unnecessary.

With the release of Stellar Blade, there are no scheduled first-party games with confirmed release dates. This leaves players anticipating games like Concord and Marvel's Wolverine, with uncertain release dates. The lack of transparency from Sony regarding upcoming games raises questions about the purpose of owning a PlayStation 5. It is essential for Sony to provide a compelling lineup of games to maintain interest and engagement among players.

For those interested in learning more about the creator of Balatro, the podcast "Eggplant: The Secret Lives Of Games" offers insights in episode 136 titled "Going in Blind with Balatro." Additionally, a mention of gratitude to Andrew J for sharing an amiibo link, allowing the acquisition of the Sonic The Hedgehog amiibo.

Looking ahead, Ubisoft's summer showcase is anticipated to focus on Assassin's Creed, as the upcoming title Infinity has not been revealed yet. The concept of Infinity as a live service title raises concerns about microtransactions and monetization practices. Balancing gameplay with monetization strategies is crucial to maintaining player engagement and satisfaction.

Reflecting on classic games like Super Mario 64, GoldenEye 007, and Zelda: Ocarina Of Time, it prompts the question of which consoles have had three non-negotiable 10/10 classics. The Nintendo Switch stands out with titles like Zelda: Breath Of The Wild, showcasing exceptional quality and innovation in gaming.

The discussion around early access games raises questions about the development process and player involvement. While early access can benefit indie developers, there are concerns about games being developed by committee and the impact on overall quality. Emphasizing the importance of completing games before release, it highlights the value of traditional game development practices.

In conclusion, the gaming industry continues to evolve, presenting challenges and opportunities for developers and players alike. Balancing innovation with player expectations and industry trends is essential to delivering engaging and memorable gaming experiences. The journey of game development requires careful consideration of player feedback, creative vision, and technological advancements to create immersive and captivating games.