A reader known as Zeiss Exec Unit 3021-6 predicts Sony will be forced into a U-turn on its all-digital PlayStation 5 strategy, blaming Rockstar Games for pushing the change to secure 100% of GTA 6 profits. The reader argues that making the PS5 digital-only in its final years invites bad publicity and expects Sony to reverse course for the PS5, except possibly for GTA 6.
Bungie Dev Calls Execs 'Stupid Detached Money Grubbing Idiots'
Another reader praises a Bungie developer who publicly called executives 'stupid detached money grubbing idiots,' noting that Asha Sharma and Phil Spencer sound identical, likely using ChatGPT for scripts. The reader suggests Sony's silence hides similar robotic detachment from gaming passion.
id Software Layoffs Disappoint Fans
Reader Magnumstache expresses disappointment over id Software layoffs, with reports suggesting the bulk of the development team was let go. They praise id's modern Doom trilogy, especially Doom Eternal, and their proprietary game engines used by other studios for titles like Indiana Jones And The Great Circle.
Microsoft's Studio Sales: A Win for Developers?
Reader Tim notes that Double Fine and Compulsion Games appear to have been handed back to their founders, Tim Schafer and Guillaume Provost, after Microsoft's acquisition. He suggests the studios benefited from nearly a decade of freedom and financial gain, while Xbox seems better at giving away money than making it.
First Big Game After GTA 6?
Reader Rizzo wonders which major game will launch after GTA 6, noting Sega's Stranger Than Heaven on January 15 and the Tomb Raider remake in February. They speculate God Of War Laufey could release early next year, with Interstellar: The Heretic Prophet as Sony's Christmas game, possibly unveiled at The Game Awards.
Xbox Regression to 'ShooterBox'
Reader Korbie argues Xbox is regressing to a 'ShooterBox' targeting young American men, as seen with its remaining studios focused on Halo, Gears Of War, and Forza. They claim Phil Spencer's attempt to diversify with acquisitions like Double Fine and Compulsion failed, producing mediocre games. They suggest Xbox should cease operations to avoid further embarrassment.
Elder Scrolls 6 Exclusivity Would Spark Backlash
Reader Cubby predicts Microsoft might try to make The Elder Scrolls 6 an Xbox console exclusive, warning that the backlash would dwarf the physical media controversy. They give it a 50/50 chance and expect a swift U-turn if attempted.
Hidden Costs of Digital-Only Gaming
Reader Ciara highlights the financial incentives for Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo to go digital-only: cutting out retailers, retaining full profits, avoiding overproduction (like Atari's E.T. burial), eliminating manufacturing and storage costs, and reducing turnaround time. However, they note this doesn't resolve the industry's crisis or the cost of living impact on gamers, and layoffs in retail and logistics represent a larger invisible iceberg.
Inbox Also-Rans
Reader ArmandxUltra suggests Bungie's laid-off Destiny 2 staff could be subcontracted to make a Halo-themed Destiny 3. Reader Dougal tried to play Kiln on Game Pass but found no players, noting an all-time peak of 193 on Steam, and begins to see Microsoft's perspective.
