Industry veterans Geoff Keighley and Mark Cerny launch a fellowship to support emerging game designers, as Nintendo faces criticism on its Ocarina of Time remake.
This mid-week brings a mix of notable developments in the gaming world, with significant initiatives from industry stalwarts and mixed reactions to new game announcements.
Keighley and Cerny Aim to Empower Future Game Developers
Geoff Keighley, the creator of The Game Awards, and Mark Cerny, known for his role at PlayStation, have launched the Nova Games Foundation, a new fellowship designed to support young game developers. According to Destructoid, the program will partner with universities to provide annual grants of $100,000 to twenty student game designers, creating opportunities for emerging talent in the industry. Cerny’s commitment to ‘paying it forward’ is central to this initiative as he approaches the later stages of his career, emphasizing mentoring the next generation of developers.
Nintendo Faces Backlash Over Ocarina of Time Remake
Nintendo’s recent showcase of the Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake has stirred controversy, as reported by Destructoid. Many fans express disappointment with the game’s graphics, likening them to “a joke Mario game.” Criticism centers on the game’s shift to a more conventional graphical style, which some feel betrays Nintendo’s typically distinctive aesthetic approach. Despite this, Nintendo remains unperturbed by the release of Grand Theft Auto VI, as noted by The Verge. The company appears confident in the strength of its Zelda franchise, evidenced by the reveal of various related projects, including a live-action movie and orchestral concerts.
Controversial Game Removal Highlights Sensitivity in Gaming
In more somber news, the White House has removed a controversial Tetris clone, “Build the Wall,” from its newly launched “arcade” site after backlash, as detailed by The Verge. The game, which involved stacking blocks to fend off a ‘zombie border siege,’ was criticized for its perceived insensitivity. While the motives behind the game’s removal remain unclear, the Tetris Company is reportedly looking into the situation, reflecting ongoing discussions about content sensitivity in gaming.
Anime Franchises Expand with New Releases
Beyond gaming, prominent anime franchises continue to captivate audiences with announcements of new developments. GameRant reports that Hunter x Hunter will expand its storytelling with a new stage play, thus broadening its narrative reach. Simultaneously, My Hero Academia is teasing a new release on September 16th, celebrating the franchise’s 10th anniversary following the conclusion of its main story last year, as covered by GameRant.
