Krafton scraps its PUBG extraction shooter due to long-term viability concerns, while other platforms see new updates and changes.
The biggest story in PC gaming today is the cancellation of Krafton’s planned PUBG spin-off, ‘Black Budget.’ Just under a year after its initial reveal and following a period of closed alpha testing, Krafton has decided to can the extraction shooter. The decision came after the company determined that the game wouldn’t deliver a long-term enjoyable experience for players. While this is a setback, Krafton has assured it learned valuable lessons for future projects. This is yet another instance of a game being shut down during early testing phases, reflecting an industry trend where developers are increasingly willing to pull the plug if projected returns on investment seem low. Rock Paper Shotgun has more details on the story.
Platform Updates
Elsewhere, in notable platform changes, the GOG Preservation Program will soon include Octopath Traveler and its sequel, Octopath Traveler II. This move expands GOG’s initiative to preserve classic titles, making them available to a wider audience who may have missed them on other platforms. With digital storefronts like Steam often dominated by new releases, GOG’s focus on preservation offers a distinct value proposition. You can read more about this inclusive initiative on GamingOnLinux.
In the realm of cloud gaming, NVIDIA has announced its new additions to GeForce NOW for October 2026. While no specific titles were mentioned in the extracts, these regular updates are an essential part of enticing subscribers to continue using cloud gaming services. Details can be explored further at GamingOnLinux.
Tech and Tools
Valve’s recently released SteamVR Beta 2.18.2 focuses on bug fixes, underlining the aim to enhance the stability of VR experiences despite lacking flashy new features. Regular updates represent Valve’s commitment to improving user experience. More information is available through GamingOnLinux.
Industry Insights
In other industry musings, there’s a quirky reflection on the minor but immersive elements of game design with an article wishing other developers would emulate the realistic in-game corner shops featured in the open-world immersive sim No Law. These smaller details can add to the richness of a game’s environment, potentially increasing player engagement. For further thoughts on this, check Rock Paper Shotgun.
Lastly, there’s an amusing bit of editorial reflection about language choices in technology marketing, exemplified by an article discussing a chair that’s labeled as “AI-enabled.” It’s a reminder of the sometimes loose application of the term “AI” in consumer tech, where features may not be as groundbreaking as advertised. Explore this commentary further at Rock Paper Shotgun.
