Video Games Weekly: Why Are These Videos in My Games?

The State of Video Games: A Weekly Deep Dive

Every Monday or Tuesday, I share a new story on the evolving world of video games. This week, I’ll start with some thoughts and reflections on recent trends, followed by a look at the most important news from the past week.

The Debate Over Interactive Experiences

There’s been a lot of buzz around Death Stranding 2, but I can’t help but feel conflicted about it. While the gameplay elements are undeniably strong, the sheer amount of non-interactive cutscenes has left me questioning what defines a video game anymore. If a significant portion of the experience is cinematic, does it still qualify as a game? This isn’t just a personal gripe—it’s a broader conversation about where the industry is headed.

Hideo Kojima has always pushed boundaries, and his latest projects, like OD and Physint, continue this trend with high-profile Hollywood talent. But I find myself wondering if the line between film and games is becoming too blurred. I don’t play games to watch movies; I want interactivity, exploration, and mechanics that make the medium unique. It feels like we’re losing sight of what makes games special in favor of cinematic storytelling.

Industry Shifts and Challenges

The gaming landscape is changing rapidly. Recent headlines include Neil Druckmann leaving HBO for Naughty Dog, Fallout 5 getting more attention than other projects, and major layoffs at Xbox. One surprising cancellation was Project Blackbird, an MMO from ZeniMax Online Studios, which was scrapped to focus on Fallout 5. These shifts reflect a growing convergence between gaming and Hollywood, with companies like Sony investing heavily in TV, anime, and film adaptations.

This cross-media approach isn’t new, but it’s gaining momentum. Sony’s release of Death Stranding 2 highlights how much influence Hollywood has on game development. However, this trend also raises concerns about whether the industry is prioritizing familiar formats over innovation.

The Human Side of Gaming

Layoffs and studio closures aren’t just business moves—they affect real people. King, the developer behind Candy Crush, recently laid off hundreds of employees, many of whom had spent years training AI systems to replace their roles. This adds a layer of irony to an already difficult situation. It’s a reminder that even successful studios aren’t immune to the challenges of the industry.

Meanwhile, Best Buy is set to restock its supply of Nintendo Switch 2 consoles, coinciding with the release of Donkey Kong Bananza. For those still on the fence, this could be the push they need to finally take the plunge.

New Projects and Uncertainties

Ken Levine’s Judas continues to generate interest, though details remain sparse. The project promises a narrative-driven experience without live services or microtransactions. That’s refreshing, but fans are still waiting for a confirmed release date.

On the charity front, Summer Games Done Quick (SGDQ) once again proved its power by raising over $2.4 million for Doctors Without Borders. Their next event, Flame Fatales, will showcase speedrunning by women and femmes, highlighting the diversity within the community.

Legal Battles and Controversies

The Subnautica 2 controversy shows how volatile the industry can be. Unknown Worlds Entertainment’s leadership was ousted by Krafton, leading to delays and legal action. The fired developers claim the game was ready for early access, while Krafton accuses them of abandoning their responsibilities. This ongoing dispute underscores the challenges of managing creative and financial expectations in game development.

Final Thoughts

As the industry evolves, it’s crucial to balance innovation with the core principles that make games unique. While Hollywood’s influence is undeniable, there’s still so much potential for creativity and originality in interactive storytelling. Whether through experimental horror, narrative-driven experiences, or community-driven events, the future of gaming remains exciting—and full of possibilities.

Stay tuned for more updates, and I’ll see you next week.