The hottest Gaming Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics

Why No AI Games?

Donkeyspace • 9 implied HN points • 02 Mar 26
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. There are surprisingly few compelling games built around generative AI; early experiments exist but none have delivered the kind of mind‑blowing, new gameplay people expected.
  2. Practical barriers—high API costs, unstable third‑party models, and strong player resistance to AI in games—make it hard to build sustainable, widely accepted AI‑centric titles.
  3. Generative AI’s soft, unpredictable behavior clashes with what makes games fun: simple, deterministic rules that produce emergent surprises, so raw AI output often short‑circuits the mechanics that create playable depth.

Under the microscope: Kinetica (PlayStation 2)

Rings of Saturn • 43 implied HN points • 13 Feb 26
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. The game encodes button sequences into an accumulator: L3 clears it and other buttons shift the value by 3 bits then OR in a small button code.
  2. Entering L3, Right, L1, Down, R1, Left on the title screen sets the accumulator to the unlock value and reveals all seasons, bonus characters, tracks, and the history movie.
  3. The same cheat-input system appears in other Sony games like God of War, and there’s a separate hidden sequence (Down, Start, Left, L1) that sets a different value likely meant to show biker coordinates but has no visible effect.

Gonzo Awards: Worst Decision Of The Year

Richard Lewis • 1316 implied HN points • 10 Jan 24
🎾 Sports Gaming
  1. Esports can be full of drama and downfalls due to incompetent narcissists.
  2. Astralis made a series of questionable decisions involving a coach named Hunden.
  3. Astralis' actions resulted in denigration of their own legacy, angering the community, lawsuits, fines, and no improvement in tournament results.

Daylight swiping

Vague Blue • 778 implied HN points • 19 Mar 24
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. The evolution of the swipe gesture, popularized by Apple, has changed how we interact with technology, from unlocking phones to scrolling through social media.
  2. The swipe has become ingrained in modern culture, especially through dating apps like Tinder, where it serves as a rapid filter for potential matches.
  3. Continuous swiping on apps can create a sense of infinite possibilities but can also lead to mindless behavior, trapping users in a cycle of seeking without finding.

Don't build a platform... unless?

lcamtuf’s thing • 2856 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. Building a platform is hard and often not worth the effort. It's usually better to focus on creating a good product first.
  2. To make a successful platform, you need to either find a unique idea, have a strong personal following, or get backing from big companies.
  3. Having good code isn’t enough to make a platform thrive; you need visibility and support from the right people to attract users.
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You’ve received a new Axie Score!

The Lunacian • 1334 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
đź”® Crypto Gaming
  1. An Axie Score shows how much someone contributes to the Lunacia community. A higher score means more influence over future decisions in the game.
  2. You can use your Axie Score to vote on community matters, and there are ideas to add more benefits like game access or special rewards.
  3. New badges are coming to recognize community contributions, and they will help increase your Axie Score, reflecting your involvement in the Lunacian community.

Under the microscope: Sound Qube (Saturn)

Rings of Saturn • 43 implied HN points • 09 Feb 26
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. You can unlock a level select on the Saturn version by holding Start on the Options screen and entering: A, C, Up, Right, A, Down, Up, Left; this lets you start any of the eight levels.
  2. A wireframe mode makes the sub-cubes transparent when you pause, hold Start, and enter: A, C, Up, Right, A, B, Left, C.
  3. You can force a Stage Clear (or Level Clear on the final stage) by pausing, holding Start, and entering: A, C, Up, Right, A, Right, A, B, which can carry you to the end of the game.

Final Overstock Sale!

50 Years of Text Games • 1444 implied HN points • 22 May 25
🎭️ Culture Gaming
  1. There will be a final sale of leftover items from the 50 Years of Text Games campaign on May 25th. Many of these items have been sold out for a while, so it's a good chance to grab them.
  2. The sale includes special items like collector's editions, replica cassette tapes, and unique maps. Some items are limited in quantity, so they may sell out quickly.
  3. If you're outside the U.S., be aware that extra shipping costs might apply due to customs. It's best to consider this before making a purchase.

Gonzo Awards: Biggest Scam Of The Year

Richard Lewis • 1120 implied HN points • 20 Jan 24
🎾 Sports Gaming
  1. Esports can be a world of hustles and scams, attracting both opportunists and grifters.
  2. Overwatch 2 and the Overwatch League faced significant challenges and failures in 2023.
  3. The Overwatch esports league experienced financial troubles and controversies, ultimately leading to its downfall.

Coming Soon ... Avernum 4: Greed and Glory!

The Bottom Feeder • 824 implied HN points • 30 Jul 25
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. Avernum 4: Greed and Glory is a new indie RPG set to release in October 2025. It continues a beloved series that has been around since 1994.
  2. The new game is a remaster of the 2005 title, aiming to improve on the original while telling fresh stories in its unique underworld setting.
  3. The developers are asking fans to wishlist the game on Steam, as it helps increase visibility and support for the upcoming release.

Vol. 2, Issue 35 - Kimberley’s Pokémon Day Memories

Johto Times • 39 implied HN points • 29 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Gaming
  1. Kimberley shared her fun memories from the Pokémon Day event at Walibi World in 2008. She and her family enjoyed activities like searching for inflatable Poké Balls and took home cool merchandise.
  2. The Pokémon Company is preparing for exciting new releases. A new trading card expansion called 'Surging Sparks' is coming soon, along with a special Pokémon GO season called 'Max Out'.
  3. Pokémon has made a big impact on Kimberley's life, helping her to connect with others and build a large collection. She feels grateful for the friends and experiences she has gained through her love for Pokémon.

Living Evil: Covid, Counter-Strike And An Unnecessary Rebranding

Richard Lewis • 1886 implied HN points • 28 Apr 23
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. Evil Geniuses faced challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic with management disregarding safety protocols and putting staff at risk.
  2. The Counter-Strike team's decline was highlighted by poor management decisions and player dissatisfaction.
  3. An unnecessary rebranding at Evil Geniuses led to public ridicule and internal disapproval, showcasing a disconnect between management and staff.

Nvidia B100, B200, GB200 - COGS, Pricing, Margins, Ramp - Oberon, Umbriel, Miranda

SemiAnalysis • 6364 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. Nvidia's new Blackwell GPUs introduce B100, B200, and GB200 models, offering improved performance and architecture.
  2. The B100 has exceptional gross margins exceeding 85%, showcasing Nvidia's strong pricing power in the market.
  3. The configuration of the Blackwell GPUs includes 8 stacks of 8-hi HBM3E with up to 192GB capacity, utilizing CoWoS-L technology for increased performance.

The Codex Accessory Design Contest is LIVE!

The Lunacian • 230 implied HN points • 28 Nov 25
đź”® Crypto Gaming
  1. You can create your own accessory design and submit it for a chance to win AXS prizes and have your design featured in The Codex.
  2. To enter, come up with an original idea, name your accessory, and fill out a Google Form by December 11th.
  3. Judges will look for unique designs that fit the Axie universe, and winners might see their designs turned into real items for the game.

Vol. 2, Issue 28 - What Iwata did for Pokémon

Johto Times • 139 implied HN points • 11 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Gaming
  1. Satoru Iwata played a huge role in making Pokémon successful. He helped bring Pokémon games to the West and was involved in the development of many classic titles.
  2. Iwata created important tools that improved the Pokémon games. His work made it easier for developers to create engaging experiences for players.
  3. Even during tough times, like when he was sick, Iwata continued to work on projects like Pokémon GO. His dedication left a lasting impact on fans and the gaming community.

Under the microscope: Road Rash 3D & Road Rash Jailbreak (PlayStation)

Rings of Saturn • 58 implied HN points • 23 Jan 26
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. In Road Rash 3D, certain player names trigger strcmp checks that activate cheats — for example, IBaChtR gives $33,333 and unlocks all bikes, while MACVVASM and _33333 provide subsets of those effects.
  2. In Road Rash Jailbreak you open a hidden cheat textbox by highlighting Options → Multiplayer and holding L1+L2+R1+R2+Left then pressing X, and entering codes like KLFSDA, CMB, BDK, and FDMFG unlocks mode settings or grants four nitros.
  3. Looking at the PlayStation BIOS string-comparison calls and the game code lets you verify and discover real, working cheats and clarifies how to enter ones that online lists describe poorly.

Six Game Devs Speak to Computer Games Mag (1984)

Computer Ads from the Past • 768 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. Many game creators started programming at a young age and learned by experimenting on their own computers. They believe that hands-on experience is the best way to learn.
  2. Creating a successful game often requires a mix of good ideas and playability. Game designers know that if a game is fun and engaging, people will want to play it.
  3. The game development journey can be both enjoyable and challenging. Many developers find satisfaction in creating games that others love to play, making it a rewarding career.

My Internet: Stephen Totilo

Embedded • 825 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. Stephen Totilo, the Game File founder, is not into comedy.
  2. He enjoys watching TikToks, specifically a guy in Japan pretending to be an NPC in Grand Theft Auto.
  3. Stephen Totilo focuses on journalism about gaming, relying on Twitter for news and finding joy offline.

Craft World: A Beginner's Guide

Ronin’s Newsletter • 24 implied HN points • 10 Feb 26
đź”® Crypto Gaming
  1. Craft World is a free-to-play resource-management game with a fully on-chain economy on Ronin where the core loop is collect, craft, trade, and build using blockchain-tracked materials and DynoCoin.
  2. Progression revolves around repairing and upgrading your base (Town Hall, Exchange, Vault, Workshop, Mastery) and balancing power, production chains, and permanent choices like Workshop Points to optimize long-term efficiency.
  3. Earning comes from many paths—selling on the Exchange, Vault passive gains, community Masterpieces, Live-Ops, liquidity pools, and owning Water/Fire Dyno NFTs—so a patient, market-aware strategy beats short-term grinding.

Announcing GreatGamesNetwork

Let's talk games & AI. • 6 implied HN points • 09 Mar 26
đź’Ľ Business Gaming
  1. A new games company is focusing on evergreen casual puzzle games aimed at older women, betting these titles drive long-term engagement without a constant content treadmill.
  2. The business uses a syndication model: build one game library and publish the same games across many destinations (daily challenges, SEO-optimized sites, saga-style apps), so small revenue streams aggregate at low marginal cost.
  3. The flagship product is an ad-free daily puzzle subscription with a few games live now, and growth will rely on paid user acquisition, iterative product improvement, repeatable tooling, and public metrics to guide progress.

Meet the Team Bringing AI Agents to Minecraft

A16Z GAMES • 439 implied HN points • 29 Mar 24
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. Altera is developing AI agents for Minecraft that can interact autonomously and learn from player interactions.
  2. The team at Altera, including MIT PhDs and ex-Google AI engineers, aims to create agents with episodic memory and the ability to set their own goals.
  3. Altera's long-term goal is to expand their AI agents to other games like Roblox and integrate their technology with game engine SDKs for wider developer use.

Numlock News: January 8, 2024 • Robots, Ramen, Star Citizen

Numlock News • 786 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. Star Citizen is a video game in alpha development raising massive funds through selling digital spaceships.
  2. Instant ramen sales are booming globally, with a spicy chicken-flavored soup gaining popularity in the US.
  3. Automation struggles as some tasks are easy for humans but difficult for robots, showcasing a low robot usage rate in US manufacturing plants.

How To Get Internet Feedback Without Going Insane

The Bottom Feeder • 484 implied HN points • 14 Aug 25
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. Too much online feedback can be overwhelming and confusing. It's important to filter out negative comments to protect your mental health.
  2. Building a private community of trusted beta testers can help you get useful feedback without the noise of public opinions. These testers should be honest but respectful.
  3. Make sure your testers understand and appreciate the kind of work you do. Feedback is most helpful when it comes from people who are genuinely interested in your specific type of creation.

$800 -> $85k in 72 Hours: Reflections on Luck and Skill from the Part Time Poker Grind

The Hobbyist • 77 HN points • 22 Jul 24
🎾 Sports Gaming
  1. Poker is a game where luck is a big part of winning. Even skilled players can lose because the odds are often against them.
  2. The process of playing poker matters more than just the results. Understanding how to play well shows true skill, not just winning a tournament once.
  3. To improve in poker, players should focus on getting more experience. Playing online or teaming up with other players helps in gaining more practice and learning better strategies.

Origins S14 is LIVE!

The Lunacian • 506 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. Origins S14 is now live, offering players a chance to win part of an 80K AXS prize pool and an Origins axie.
  2. The leaderboard has changed, now only the top 2,000 players will earn increased AXS rewards, making it more competitive.
  3. Collectible chest rewards have increased from 7,000 AXS to 10,000 AXS, giving players more incentives to participate.

Vol. 2, Issue 33 - Interview with Carol Monahan (Wizards of the Coast)

Johto Times • 39 implied HN points • 15 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Gaming
  1. Carol Monahan was a key figure at Wizards of the Coast when they got the Pokémon Trading Card Game license. She helped ensure products were shipped to stores, which was crucial during the game's early success.
  2. Wizards of the Coast faced many challenges as they quickly expanded, especially when the Pokémon TCG became popular. They had to manage large shipments and secure enough resources to meet the demand.
  3. The sale of Wizards to Hasbro changed things, but at first, Pokémon continued to thrive. However, over time, Hasbro struggled to maintain their relationship with the Pokémon brand.

🍿 Netflix Steps into the WWE Ring

How They Make Money • 569 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
đź’Ľ Business Gaming
  1. Netflix secures a $5 billion, 10-year deal with WWE for exclusive rights to 'Raw' and other shows, expanding its reach internationally.
  2. WWE's global appeal, available in 180 countries and reaching over one billion homes, makes it a strategic fit for Netflix.
  3. Moving WWE content to Netflix provides a win-win situation, giving WWE access to a larger platform and providing Netflix with exclusive content to retain and attract members.

App.axie updates are LIVE!

The Lunacian • 460 implied HN points • 29 Jul 25
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. The new Axie Score Leaderboard is out, letting players see how their scores compare to others. This helps you understand your influence in the community.
  2. App.axie got cool updates like new icons for Designations and a better mobile interface for managing your axies. These changes make it easier and more fun to use the app.
  3. There are more options for Axie Hangouts coming soon, including new backgrounds to customize your space. It's exciting to think about all the ways to express your style!

Ronin’s 2025 Year in Review

Ronin’s Newsletter • 61 implied HN points • 29 Dec 25
đź”® Crypto Gaming
  1. Ronin saw real demand and engagement in 2025, with millions of users, hundreds of millions of transactions, strong marketplace presales, and popular experiences like Fortune Spin and Ronin Arcade driving activity.
  2. A large crop of builders drove growth—about 1,000 teams launched on Ronin and several games and collections delivered big presales, trading volume, and highly engaged communities.
  3. Ronin is shifting into growth mode for 2026 with a migration to an Optimism OP Stack L2, a new Proof of Distribution rewards system for builders, and a push to make onboarding and payments easier including real-world partnerships and retail integrations.

The 2024 Lunacian Address

The Lunacian • 1242 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
đź”® Crypto Gaming
  1. Lunacia had a great year in 2024, with important growth in player numbers and treasury revenue. There were significant increases in trading volume and the popularity of Mystic Axies.
  2. They launched several new features like Bounty Boards and Wings of Nightmare, which helped attract more players to the game. Key updates and events kept the community engaged and active.
  3. Looking ahead to 2025, Lunacia is planning even more exciting developments and will be aiming to involve the community in new adventures. They're focused on building bigger and better experiences together.

The Frosty Fiesta is LIVE!

The Lunacian • 1380 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
đź”® Crypto Gaming
  1. The Frosty Fiesta event is starting, where players can earn extra AXS rewards from December 16th to 29th. This is a great chance to get more gifts this holiday season!
  2. Rewards for the Premier Bounty Board have been doubled, meaning more AXS can be earned for completing quests. Players can now earn up to 2 AXS per master quest.
  3. The requirement to access the Premier Bounty Board has been reduced, making it easier for players to join in on the fun and earn rewards during the event.

Something weird is happening with LLMs and chess

DYNOMIGHT INTERNET NEWSLETTER • 1515 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. Large language models (LLMs) can somewhat play chess, but they struggle after the opening moves. They were not specifically designed for chess, yet they can manage to play using their text training.
  2. The performance of different language models varies significantly when playing chess. Some models like 'gpt-3.5-turbo-instruct' excel at it, while others perform very poorly.
  3. It seems that focusing on instruction tuning can make LLMs worse at chess, suggesting that training style impacts their ability to play games effectively.

5 Trends Driving the Future of VR Gaming

A16Z GAMES • 179 implied HN points • 08 May 24
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. VR gaming is gaining momentum with over 30 million Meta Quest headsets sold and successful games like Gorilla Tag, indicating a bright future for the platform.
  2. Developers are focusing on creating more inviting VR hardware and software to overcome challenges like motion sickness and resistance to bulky headsets.
  3. The younger generation, like the Roblox users, is embracing VR quickly, leading to the rise of social experiences and free games targeted at a younger audience.

Axie Classic Competitive Season 10 is LIVE!

The Lunacian • 460 implied HN points • 03 Jul 25
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. Axie Classic Season 10 is now live, giving players a chance to win from a huge prize pool of 36,000 AXS until July 24th. Jump in and see how well you can compete!
  2. The Battle Passes and Premium Passes are back, letting players earn extra rewards while they play. Keep winning battles to enjoy the best loot!
  3. Some features are getting updated or removed, like the SLP Chest. The game is constantly balancing things to improve the player experience, so stay tuned for more changes!

Under the microscope: V-Rally 2 (PlayStation)

Rings of Saturn • 72 implied HN points • 16 Dec 25
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. V‑Rally 2’s PlayStation build hides a secret Araignos mini‑game — a multiplayer Snake‑style game present in the PS release and prototype but not in the Dreamcast or PC versions.
  2. Reverse engineering with an emulator memory snapshot and Ghidra revealed the specific cheat button sequence and the memory flag/address that enable the hidden mini‑game.
  3. Araignos supports up to four players via a PlayStation multitap, uses unusual controls (Square/Circle for left/right), and features many power‑ups and chaotic mechanics that are playable with controller remapping or slowed emulation.

Origins S13 Postseason has begun!

The Lunacian • 414 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
đź•ą Technology Gaming
  1. The Origins S13 Postseason has started, and the top player is TCO Nub. Thanks to everyone who participated in the competition!
  2. The Elite 8 tournament kicks off on July 13th, offering a prize pool of 3,000 AXS. Participants will also get Morph Tickets to help prepare.
  3. Don't forget, your collectible Axie tickets determine your rewards and AXS distribution. More tickets mean more prizes!