RimWorld's engine framework, BRUTAL, goes open source amid Unity licensing controversies, reflecting a broader industry trend.
The decision by Ludeon Studios to release the source code for BRUTAL, the framework behind RimWorld’s Waylith engine, is a significant move in response to the ongoing licensing controversies surrounding Unity. The release comes as RimWorld transitions from Unity to its proprietary engine, reflecting how developers are increasingly seeking alternatives due to Unity’s increasingly convoluted licensing demands. GamingOnLinux reported on this shift, highlighting RimWorld’s push for greater control over its development tools and freedom from third-party dependency.
Linux Gaming Enhancements
Valve continues to bolster Linux gaming through both software updates and hardware support. The Proton Experimental update for October 15 addresses compatibility issues in several Windows games on SteamOS, such as ARC Raiders, C&C Red Alert, Counterstrike, and The Aftermath. These changes, covered by GamingOnLinux, highlight Valve’s commitment to improving the playability of Windows-based games on Linux platforms.
Additionally, SteamOS 0.5.6 Beta has been released, simplifying the process of adding apk files to devices running SteamOS, namely the Steam Frame. This update, also detailed by GamingOnLinux, illustrates Valve’s ongoing innovation in making Linux a more compatible and flexible gaming environment.
New Game Releases and Updates
In the realm of game development, the indie scene remains vibrant. Psychic Software is set to release The Lich Wars, a prequel to last year’s The Necromancer’s Tale. As noted by RockPaperShotgun, the game will expand on the original’s unique narrative-driven RPG format, focusing on a broader storyline dealing with the complexities of the undead over three decades.
Meanwhile, The Blood of Dawnwalker’s 1.1 update introduces a new, “forgiving” difficulty mode alongside the quirky feature of “directional animal petting”. Opinions seem divided on the latter feature as reported by RockPaperShotgun, indicating both innovation and potential oddity in gameplay mechanics.
Other Industry News
The gaming industry continues to intersect with broader entertainment media, as demonstrated by CD Projekt Red’s plans for a Cyberpunk 2077 movie adaptation. In an interview with RockPaperShotgun, it was confirmed that the film will not directly translate the game’s storyline, but rather explore new elements within the Cyberpunk universe. This move aligns with strategies seen in other successful game-adjacent media, like the Cyberpunk: Edgerunners anime.
In other news, the latest season of Wardogs seeks to refine rather than reinvent its formula, showing the developers’ strategic focus on evolution for the upcoming second season. Also, while the new League of Legends Worlds anthem hasn’t met all fan expectations, it remains a key cultural event within the expansive gaming community as reported by PCGamesN.
