All I know is the mobile landscape needs a major shift moving forward. There are tons of great experiences to be had, but so many mobile games have been plagued with gacha and FOMO elements for a while now.
The shimmering is absolutely noticeable, but didn't harm the gameplay experience. Still, the amount of time this has remained an issue isn't the best look. 😅
The type of behavior we’re seeing more and more frequently is completely unacceptable. It’s immature at best, and all who engage in it could use some professional help therapy or counseling.
@Cerny A lot of events were experienced through flashbacks, and simultaneous events experienced by two different characters during the same timeline were played at different times (avoiding spoilers for those who haven’t played).
The entire narrative structure involved jumping around to different points in time, so chronological means all the events will unfold in the order they actually occurred in the timeline.
@Fiendish-Beaver Just checked their website and they’re 1:3 scale! 😱 Eve is 78.5cm (2.57 ft) and Tachy is 79cm (2.59 ft), with both measurements including the base.
I don’t know that it’s reasonable to believe the download code expiration represented the true longevity of the title, but I do believe having a single-player mode rendered unplayable due to the server shutdown is unacceptable.
Games that require online server access for single-player experiences should not exist in ways that end the experience if the servers shut down.
@Oz_Who_Dat_Dare I hear what you’re saying, and I agree that visual storytelling matters—aging, trauma, and character design all play a role. But my issue isn’t just with people pointing out differences between the game and the show. It’s with how those criticisms are often being delivered. A lot of the online discourse isn’t thoughtful critique—it’s people calling Bella “ugly” or claiming Bella doesn’t “look like Ellie” in ways rooted more in bias and narrow beauty standards than in actual narrative analysis.
People are absolutely allowed to disagree with creative choices. But when that disagreement leans on personal digs or gets framed as concern for “authenticity” while dismissing an actor’s performance outright, it stops being constructive. This show is a reinterpretation, not a direct copy. It’s telling the same emotional story through a different lens, and not everything will—or should—mirror the game one-to-one. That doesn’t make it a failure. It makes it an adaptation.
And to clarify: no one needs a studio or a production budget to have an opinion. What I said was that if someone feels so strongly about how something should have been done, it might be more fulfilling to channel that passion into something creative of their own. That’s not a dismissal—it’s an invitation to build, not just tear down.
@Oz_Who_Dat_Dare I’m not sure what you mean by “aged up.” Ellie is 19 during the majority of TLOU2, and Bella was 19/20 during production. The discourse around how Bella looks hasn’t just been focused on age, and I’m sure you’re well aware of that.
My point is, I’d rather see well-formed opinions or productive initiative over superficial vitriol. At a certain point, people complaining about Bella’s casting need to realize what they have no control or influence over. There’s a point where passing criticism becomes little more than whining and attention-seeking.
I stand by what I said. I’m proposing one of many more productive options that doesn’t require anyone being critical to change their opinion.
I think it's time for gamers to understand this show isn't being made solely for us to compare it to the source material. It's an adaptation for a much larger audience. If you don't like it because it doesn't look the way you feel it should on a surface level, that's your issue to navigate. The games haven't gone anywhere... Play them again.
It's fine to disagree, but so many of the points online ring hollow and prove exactly why Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann are at the helm. They have a vision and they're executing it the way they see fit. Season 1 was a resounding success as a result, and anticipation for Season 2 is already immense.
They have the authority to create how they see fit, and it's fine if you don't connect with it. However, if you feel such strong ownership of how the vision should have been realized, maybe you should put that energy into your own creative endeavors instead. Show us what you've got.
"It’s worth stressing at this point that, despite joining the English cast, Takanashi is based in Japan and therefore is not a member of any striking American unions."
Period. That distinction matters. Takanashi’s casting has nothing to do with the SAG-AFTRA strike—he’s based in Japan and isn’t part of any American union.
HoYoverse games aren’t union projects, and union actors who took roles in them did so at their own risk, knowing SAG-AFTRA typically forbids members from working on non-union jobs. While protecting VAs is important, expecting a global company to adhere to a US-centric framework—and blaming a non-union actor for taking a legal job—is misplaced outrage.
@Keyblade-Dan If studios only created what people “asked for,” we’d be in big trouble. No film can appeal to every single person, so unless the movie is poorly-reviewed AND performs poorly commercially, there’s really no problem.
@ATaco I understand why you might prefer a more neutral tone—and there are plenty of platforms out there for that—but I don’t see Push Square's comments as "political hot takes" so much as them taking issue with potentially counterproductive behaviors.
There are likely valid business reasons behind Sony’s decision to require PSN logins on PC, but the discourse often shifts toward vilification. Could they communicate those reasons better? Absolutely.
At the end of the day, the gaming space has become quite volatile. If players can use review bombing and harsh commentary to express dissatisfaction, it’s fair for Push Square to share their perspective as well. Feedback should go both ways, and I respect their choice to address these issues rather than pretend they don’t exist simply because they reflect the less glamorous side of the industry.
@ATaco In this particular case, it’s because Push Square has their own editorial voice and has never promised to be “neutral.” This is a blog providing a mix of news, commentary, and more about the extended world of PlayStation. Asking Push Square to not have an identity, or trying to change it to suit a specific point of view that is not their own, begs the question.
If someone believes their vision is superior to the current offering here, why not do it themself? At the very least, seek out an alternative platform that is more neutral to suit one’s tastes.
@ATaco Push Square has an editorial voice. They’re really under no obligation to present a neutral view. I’d encourage you to consider starting your own blog if you feel like you have a neutral angle that would appeal to more readers.
"This is a concept video created before development began." Oh, ok. Lol. I loved Virtua Fighter as a kid and have no reason to be skeptical, but this doesn't represent a product, just an idea of one.
Prior to owning a Portal, I would always shut my console down fully. However, that has shifted since getting one. The only time I shut down now is if inclement weather is likely to cause an outage. I'm tired of being scolded for not shutting down properly. 😂
@LifeGirl I see it’s now been updated to 300 words based on the feedback. However, Twitter’s limit was 140 characters rather than 140 words. It was quite a bit more limited. Still, 150 words wasn’t much so I’m glad they’ve expanded it.
@BIG3 Honestly, a 3rd Person mode is precisely what I’m hoping for. 1st Person games just aren’t my thing, as much as I’ve tried to vibe with them. I already own Cyberpunk (since launch), but I’ve only ever played a handful of hours because of the perspective.
“In news that might at first sound like a parody…” I’m not really sure what would sound parody-like about hiring a VA they’ve worked with for multiple games now. Am I missing something? 🤔
I understand them wanting to celebrate/honor DLC, which can help drive the quality of DLC up across the industry. However, highlighting DLC content in its own major category seems more appropriate. Then again, DLC can enhance the experience of a game and have an impact beyond just the new story content. I see what they were going for on a number of fronts, but I’d still rather there be a new category introduced (Best DLC or Expansion).
I bought Sea of Stars on sale a couple months back once I heard this DLC was coming, and boy am I glad I did. I’m about ready to dive in now it has reached its ultimate form. 🥳
@Jrs1 Not in the least, and that wasn’t my intended implication. I’m all digital myself. I just don’t foresee Sony overlooking the population of early adopters who fall in the physical preferred category for an upgraded/pro model.
To that end, the several comments so far that almost presume or threaten the consequences of their dollar or support if no physical edition is released seem premature, particularly in light of this being a supposed leak and not an official announcement.
Premature and invalid are not the same, but the comments fall solely under the umbrella of speculation at this point.
This is why companies like to control their own narratives. Many people are too quick to get worked up over an absence of confirmation, often running with rumors and spreading misinformation or misdirection without any factual basis.
The premature fears of there being no disc drive are a bit silly. We’re reading about a leaked sneak peek of potential packaging for ONE version… What would Sony gain from forcing a sizable audience of early adopters who prefer physical media to digital only in the middle of a console generation? I’m fairly confident all this negative speculation is unnecessary, and I’m happy to be called an idiot if the fears turn out to be legitimate later on. Patience.
@LiamCroft Understandable, though perhaps a less traditional approach (e.g. thoughts after 1-2 hours of play with the more substantial review still to follow OR arranging for a guest contributor) might have saved us from yet another “Where’s our review for _____” article? 🙃
It’s not the end of the world, but I know the team is as capable of creative solutions as we are of being patient. It’s a give and take.
@ATaco From the sound of it, this is player-elected, right? So anyone who’d like to maintain authenticity with their leaders and civilizations will still be able to.
Was Game of the Year mentioned in the headline just to add some pizazz? I don’t see how this stands a chance, no matter how much it might hit the nail on the head for its target audience. 🤔
I love how so many people judge remakes as if they're targeted solely at the original audience. A film adaptation is in the works as well. If this isn't for you, that's fine. Not for you ≠ unnecessary.
As much as I’d love to see some form of the game revived someday, I feel like it was the right call not to jump into the live service space. Naughty Dog’s strengths lie in balancing solid gameplay with compelling narratives and characters we love, hate, or love to hate.
I'm anticipating season 2 could end with the reveal of who Abby actually is. Seems like Catherine O'Hara's character may be some sort of therapist or psychologist residing in Jackson.
@WiiWareWave In a fictional and fantasy-oriented RPG like Jeanne d’Arc, where do you think the line between adherence to historical accuracy and creative liberty would best be drawn?
Comments 209
Re: Talking Point: Will PlayStation's Mobile Push Be a Success or a Flop?
All I know is the mobile landscape needs a major shift moving forward. There are tons of great experiences to be had, but so many mobile games have been plagued with gacha and FOMO elements for a while now.
Re: Sony's Social Media Tribute to the PS2 Borders on Insulting
i just came to say I don’t feel insulted. Not even borderline. Happy 25th to the PS2! Have a great day and enjoy your games, everyone!
Re: PlayStation Is Trying to Scrub Any Mention of Its Failed Concerts from the Internet
@Doctor_BK I received a notice that the Seattle show has been canceled. Refunds will be issued.
Re: PlayStation Is Trying to Scrub Any Mention of Its Failed Concerts from the Internet
I was notified today that Seattle was canceled. That’s such a bummer.
Re: Loads of PlayStation Concert Dates Cancelled Amid Rumours of Low Ticket Sales
I bought tickets for the Seattle show in February a couple months ago. No cancellation emails… yet.
The main draw for me is that the Paramount Theater is featured heavily in The Last of Us Part 2, so I hope it doesn’t get canceled. 😅🤞🏼
Re: Don't Be Like This GTA 6 'Fan' Who Flew to Scotland Just to Harass Rockstar Staff
This man(ipulator) knew exactly what he was doing and knew it would get attention. Unfortunately, he's getting it. 😅
Re: Silent Hill 2's Overdue PS5 Pro Fixes Now in Konami's Hands
The shimmering is absolutely noticeable, but didn't harm the gameplay experience. Still, the amount of time this has remained an issue isn't the best look. 😅
Re: Resident Evil Requiem Has Third-Person Camera for Those Who Found Resident Evil 7 Too Scary
“Too scary” is the reason? 😅 I just prefer third-person games.
Re: Avatar PS5 Game Gets a Third-Person Mode, New Game+ in Huge December Update
I never thought we'd see the day. 🙌🏼 December can't come soon enough!
Re: Capcom Nixes Tone Deaf Conference on Monster Hunter Wilds Optimisation
The type of behavior we’re seeing more and more frequently is completely unacceptable. It’s immature at best, and all who engage in it could use some professional help therapy or counseling.
Re: The Last of Us Part 2's Chronological Update Out Now on PS5, PC, Lets You Play Through the Story in Linear Order
@Cerny A lot of events were experienced through flashbacks, and simultaneous events experienced by two different characters during the same timeline were played at different times (avoiding spoilers for those who haven’t played).
The entire narrative structure involved jumping around to different points in time, so chronological means all the events will unfold in the order they actually occurred in the timeline.
Re: The Last of Us Part 2's Chronological Update Out Now on PS5, PC, Lets You Play Through the Story in Linear Order
I don’t mind the naysayers. Play it or not… that’s up to you. As for me, I’m looking forward to jumping into this mode after work! 🥳
Re: Red Dead Redemption 2 PS5 Version Tease Turns Out to Be a Cast Reunion
And this, kids, is why we don't hype up unconfirmed speculation. ☺️
Re: Stellar Blade's Hyper-Realistic $3,600 Statues Sold Out in Minutes
@Fiendish-Beaver Just checked their website and they’re 1:3 scale! 😱 Eve is 78.5cm (2.57 ft) and Tachy is 79cm (2.59 ft), with both measurements including the base.
Re: Comments from Ubisoft's Legal Team Are Not Going to Improve the Embattled Publisher's Image
I don’t know that it’s reasonable to believe the download code expiration represented the true longevity of the title, but I do believe having a single-player mode rendered unplayable due to the server shutdown is unacceptable.
Games that require online server access for single-player experiences should not exist in ways that end the experience if the servers shut down.
Re: PS5 Graphics Modes Make Expedition 33 Either Look or Run Better, PS5 Pro Enhanced Too
This is currently my most-anticipated game. 🙌🏼
Re: The Last of Us Showrunner Isn't Concerned About Bella Ramsey's Ellie Looking Too Young in Season 2
@Oz_Who_Dat_Dare I hear what you’re saying, and I agree that visual storytelling matters—aging, trauma, and character design all play a role. But my issue isn’t just with people pointing out differences between the game and the show. It’s with how those criticisms are often being delivered. A lot of the online discourse isn’t thoughtful critique—it’s people calling Bella “ugly” or claiming Bella doesn’t “look like Ellie” in ways rooted more in bias and narrow beauty standards than in actual narrative analysis.
People are absolutely allowed to disagree with creative choices. But when that disagreement leans on personal digs or gets framed as concern for “authenticity” while dismissing an actor’s performance outright, it stops being constructive. This show is a reinterpretation, not a direct copy. It’s telling the same emotional story through a different lens, and not everything will—or should—mirror the game one-to-one. That doesn’t make it a failure. It makes it an adaptation.
And to clarify: no one needs a studio or a production budget to have an opinion. What I said was that if someone feels so strongly about how something should have been done, it might be more fulfilling to channel that passion into something creative of their own. That’s not a dismissal—it’s an invitation to build, not just tear down.
Re: The Last of Us Showrunner Isn't Concerned About Bella Ramsey's Ellie Looking Too Young in Season 2
@Oz_Who_Dat_Dare I’m not sure what you mean by “aged up.” Ellie is 19 during the majority of TLOU2, and Bella was 19/20 during production. The discourse around how Bella looks hasn’t just been focused on age, and I’m sure you’re well aware of that.
My point is, I’d rather see well-formed opinions or productive initiative over superficial vitriol. At a certain point, people complaining about Bella’s casting need to realize what they have no control or influence over. There’s a point where passing criticism becomes little more than whining and attention-seeking.
I stand by what I said. I’m proposing one of many more productive options that doesn’t require anyone being critical to change their opinion.
Re: The Last of Us Showrunner Isn't Concerned About Bella Ramsey's Ellie Looking Too Young in Season 2
I think it's time for gamers to understand this show isn't being made solely for us to compare it to the source material. It's an adaptation for a much larger audience. If you don't like it because it doesn't look the way you feel it should on a surface level, that's your issue to navigate. The games haven't gone anywhere... Play them again.
It's fine to disagree, but so many of the points online ring hollow and prove exactly why Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann are at the helm. They have a vision and they're executing it the way they see fit. Season 1 was a resounding success as a result, and anticipation for Season 2 is already immense.
They have the authority to create how they see fit, and it's fine if you don't connect with it. However, if you feel such strong ownership of how the vision should have been realized, maybe you should put that energy into your own creative endeavors instead. Show us what you've got.
Re: Genshin Impact Community in Flames as English Cast Turn on New Voice Actor
"It’s worth stressing at this point that, despite joining the English cast, Takanashi is based in Japan and therefore is not a member of any striking American unions."
Period. That distinction matters. Takanashi’s casting has nothing to do with the SAG-AFTRA strike—he’s based in Japan and isn’t part of any American union.
HoYoverse games aren’t union projects, and union actors who took roles in them did so at their own risk, knowing SAG-AFTRA typically forbids members from working on non-union jobs. While protecting VAs is important, expecting a global company to adhere to a US-centric framework—and blaming a non-union actor for taking a legal job—is misplaced outrage.
Re: 'Don't Bet' on The Last of Us 3, Warns Neil Druckmann
Re: Full Until Dawn Movie Trailer Reveals New Time Loop, Out 25th April
@Keyblade-Dan If studios only created what people “asked for,” we’d be in big trouble. No film can appeal to every single person, so unless the movie is poorly-reviewed AND performs poorly commercially, there’s really no problem.
Re: You'd Better Believe The Last of Us 2 Demands a PSN Account on PC
@ATaco I understand why you might prefer a more neutral tone—and there are plenty of platforms out there for that—but I don’t see Push Square's comments as "political hot takes" so much as them taking issue with potentially counterproductive behaviors.
There are likely valid business reasons behind Sony’s decision to require PSN logins on PC, but the discourse often shifts toward vilification. Could they communicate those reasons better? Absolutely.
At the end of the day, the gaming space has become quite volatile. If players can use review bombing and harsh commentary to express dissatisfaction, it’s fair for Push Square to share their perspective as well. Feedback should go both ways, and I respect their choice to address these issues rather than pretend they don’t exist simply because they reflect the less glamorous side of the industry.
Re: You'd Better Believe The Last of Us 2 Demands a PSN Account on PC
@ATaco In this particular case, it’s because Push Square has their own editorial voice and has never promised to be “neutral.” This is a blog providing a mix of news, commentary, and more about the extended world of PlayStation. Asking Push Square to not have an identity, or trying to change it to suit a specific point of view that is not their own, begs the question.
If someone believes their vision is superior to the current offering here, why not do it themself? At the very least, seek out an alternative platform that is more neutral to suit one’s tastes.
Re: You'd Better Believe The Last of Us 2 Demands a PSN Account on PC
@ATaco Push Square has an editorial voice. They’re really under no obligation to present a neutral view. I’d encourage you to consider starting your own blog if you feel like you have a neutral angle that would appeal to more readers.
Re: Your First Look at Virtua Fighter PS5 Will Drop Jaws
"This is a concept video created before development began." Oh, ok. Lol. I loved Virtua Fighter as a kid and have no reason to be skeptical, but this doesn't represent a product, just an idea of one.
Re: Do You Put Your PS5 in Rest Mode or Shut It Down?
Prior to owning a Portal, I would always shut my console down fully. However, that has shifted since getting one. The only time I shut down now is if inclement weather is likely to cause an outage. I'm tired of being scolded for not shutting down properly. 😂
Re: Site News: The Push Square Mailbox Is Officially Open, Send Us Your Letters
@LifeGirl I see it’s now been updated to 300 words based on the feedback. However, Twitter’s limit was 140 characters rather than 140 words. It was quite a bit more limited. Still, 150 words wasn’t much so I’m glad they’ve expanded it.
Re: Final Fantasy Devs React to Clive's Revealing Tekken Crossover Outfit
I mean… Clive stripped down even more than this in FF XVI. 🤣
Re: Sony Says The Last of Us 2 Can Be Considered a Holiday Season Classic
1. Sony’s post is 100% satire.
2. It’s not just Part II. It features scenes from Part I as well.
But hey… I’m getting a chuckle out of the replies that only read the headline and didn’t watch the video.
Re: Cyberpunk 2077 Update 2.2 Announced as CDPR Promises New Features on Fourth Anniversary
@BIG3 Honestly, a 3rd Person mode is precisely what I’m hoping for. 1st Person games just aren’t my thing, as much as I’ve tried to vibe with them. I already own Cyberpunk (since launch), but I’ve only ever played a handful of hours because of the perspective.
Re: Naughty Dog Casts Troy Baker to Star in Untitled Next PS5 Game
“In news that might at first sound like a parody…” I’m not really sure what would sound parody-like about hiring a VA they’ve worked with for multiple games now. Am I missing something? 🤔
Re: The Game Awards Under Heavy Criticism for Elden Ring DLC's Game of the Year Nomination
I understand them wanting to celebrate/honor DLC, which can help drive the quality of DLC up across the industry. However, highlighting DLC content in its own major category seems more appropriate. Then again, DLC can enhance the experience of a game and have an impact beyond just the new story content. I see what they were going for on a number of fronts, but I’d still rather there be a new category introduced (Best DLC or Expansion).
Re: Review: PS5 Pro - An Impressive Yet Inconsistent Upgrade
As far as I’m concerned, we’re only in Phase 1 of the value proposition.
Re: Sea of Stars Now Has Combat System Its Developer Always Wanted
I bought Sea of Stars on sale a couple months back once I heard this DLC was coming, and boy am I glad I did. I’m about ready to dive in now it has reached its ultimate form. 🥳
Re: Here Are 10 Great PS5 Horror Games to Play This Halloween
Little Nightmares II is my game of choice this spooky season.
Re: Boy! Sony and Amazon to Start from Scratch on God of War TV Show
I feel like God of War would work better as a film franchise. I can’t even fathom the budget needed to adapt it meaningfully for TV. 🤑
Re: Concord Will Remain in Prime Video's Secret Level Anthology Series
Never know… could end up giving it new life as a TV series if the episode does well.
Re: Rumour: PS5 Pro Design Seemingly Leaked
@Jrs1 Not in the least, and that wasn’t my intended implication. I’m all digital myself. I just don’t foresee Sony overlooking the population of early adopters who fall in the physical preferred category for an upgraded/pro model.
To that end, the several comments so far that almost presume or threaten the consequences of their dollar or support if no physical edition is released seem premature, particularly in light of this being a supposed leak and not an official announcement.
Premature and invalid are not the same, but the comments fall solely under the umbrella of speculation at this point.
This is why companies like to control their own narratives. Many people are too quick to get worked up over an absence of confirmation, often running with rumors and spreading misinformation or misdirection without any factual basis.
Re: Rumour: PS5 Pro Design Seemingly Leaked
The premature fears of there being no disc drive are a bit silly. We’re reading about a leaked sneak peek of potential packaging for ONE version… What would Sony gain from forcing a sizable audience of early adopters who prefer physical media to digital only in the middle of a console generation? I’m fairly confident all this negative speculation is unnecessary, and I’m happy to be called an idiot if the fears turn out to be legitimate later on. Patience.
Re: Preview: Civilization 7 Makes Some Bold Changes, and They're Probably for the Best
@ATaco That makes perfect sense!
Re: Site News: Where's Our Star Wars Outlaws PS5 Review?
@LiamCroft Understandable, though perhaps a less traditional approach (e.g. thoughts after 1-2 hours of play with the more substantial review still to follow OR arranging for a guest contributor) might have saved us from yet another “Where’s our review for _____” article? 🙃
It’s not the end of the world, but I know the team is as capable of creative solutions as we are of being patient. It’s a give and take.
Re: Preview: Civilization 7 Makes Some Bold Changes, and They're Probably for the Best
@ATaco From the sound of it, this is player-elected, right? So anyone who’d like to maintain authenticity with their leaders and civilizations will still be able to.
Re: Retro Homage Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind Will Make a Late Play for Game of the Year
Was Game of the Year mentioned in the headline just to add some pizazz? I don’t see how this stands a chance, no matter how much it might hit the nail on the head for its target audience. 🤔
Re: 'Rebuilt' Until Dawn Comes to Haunt PS5, PC This October
I love how so many people judge remakes as if they're targeted solely at the original audience. A film adaptation is in the works as well. If this isn't for you, that's fine. Not for you ≠ unnecessary.
Re: Cancellation of The Last of Us Online Was 'Not a Bloodless Endeavour'
As much as I’d love to see some form of the game revived someday, I feel like it was the right call not to jump into the live service space. Naughty Dog’s strengths lie in balancing solid gameplay with compelling narratives and characters we love, hate, or love to hate.
Re: The Last of Us Season 2 TV Teaser Trailer Revealed
I'm anticipating season 2 could end with the reveal of who Abby actually is. Seems like Catherine O'Hara's character may be some sort of therapist or psychologist residing in Jackson.
Re: Jeanne d'Arc (PSP) - Long Awaited Strategy RPG Remains Divine
@WiiWareWave In a fictional and fantasy-oriented RPG like Jeanne d’Arc, where do you think the line between adherence to historical accuracy and creative liberty would best be drawn?
Re: Mortal Kombat 1 Adds Outrageous Animalities, Massive Story Campaign, and Much More
@SoulChimera How did you quote @DennisReynolds comment like that? Is there a resource for the formatting options for the commenting platform here? 🙏🏼
Re: Date Everything in This Absurd Sandbox Dating Sim on PS5
The vacuum probably sucks.