Games

A Bloomberg report published on December 16 shed new light on Larian Studios’ use of AI.

No Fate is a short game – you can finish it faster than watching the movie Terminator 2 – but it’s a fantastic example of a licensed game done well. It’s clearly made with a lot of love for the original material and the classic video games that inspired it.

Zesty, a new app from DoorDash, is starting with a test launch in San Francisco and New York City. This is DoorDash’s newest effort to expand beyond just delivering food, and aims to help people discover local businesses and connect with others.

Since the movie came out in late November, the blue snake character, Gary De’Snake, has become very popular with fans. Some viewers have even tried to buy real-life Indonesian pit vipers – also known as island bamboo pit vipers – that look like him. It’s important to know that these snakes are highly venomous.

Some schools in Quebec are considering requiring students to wear helmets when playing on snow hills during recess, based on new safety guidelines.

Three weeks to go

Larian Studios, the developers of the hugely popular Baldur’s Gate 3, continues to operate as an independent studio. This is important because it means they aren’t pressured by larger companies to use AI tools like some other game developers. In a recent interview with Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier, CEO Swen Vinke explained that their goal is to shorten development timelines, aiming for a three to four-year cycle instead of the six years it previously took. While the team is experimenting with generative AI to brainstorm ideas, create initial concept art, and draft temporary text, Vinke confirmed that no AI-generated content will make it into the finished game.

On December 23th, the first 2,000 fans to bring a can of Bush’s Beans will get into the game for free. The event is being called the world’s largest bowl of baked beans and will take place at Florida Atlantic University’s Flagler Credit Union Stadium.

Amanda Reynolds is suing the IRS, arguing her golden retriever, Finnegan, should be considered a dependent. She claims Finnegan meets all the necessary requirements according to current tax rules.

Kai Cenat is a hugely popular online streamer who’s famous for his energetic gaming sessions and appearances by big names like Nicki Minaj, Kevin Hart, and John Cena.