The hottest Gaming Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics

Under the microscope: The Weakest Link (PlayStation, PlayStation 2)

Rings of Saturn • 43 implied HN points • 11 Dec 25
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. The PlayStation game contains undocumented QA cheat codes that let you move the menu on-screen, reveal the correct answers during the fourth question, and shortcuts to shorten or instantly finish a round (which can also give a resume password).
  2. The championship password system was fully decoded: there are 72 passwords encoded as a starting character plus eight two‑bit moves, the full set and a decoding script are available, and the PS2 port uses the same password logic.
  3. These secrets were discovered by comparing memory snapshots and using Ghidra to find and decompile input-handling functions, showing how reverse engineering can expose leftover developer and QA tools.

Apply to the Moku Guild Boost Program now!

Ronin’s Newsletter • 24 implied HN points • 06 Jan 26
🔮 Crypto Gaming
  1. Moku's Guild Boost Program offers grants (up to $50,000 per applicant) to help guilds prepare for Grand Arena Season 1.
  2. Any guild with at least 10 members can apply (competitive experience is optional), and applications are open until two weeks after Season 1 launches or until funds run out.
  3. Guild leaders apply via the online form, wait for approval, add @hantao on Discord, and receive grant funds to buy gems, cards, packs, or contest entries.
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Vol. 2, Issue 27 - Interview with Pokémon Forever

Johto Times • 39 implied HN points • 04 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Gaming
  1. Pokémon Forever was an important fan site that provided detailed information about the early Pokémon games. It helped fans understand game mechanics and offered tools for deeper insights.
  2. The creator, Chris Fritz, used the site to learn web development and programming, which significantly shaped his career. He also made notable contributions to Pokémon terminology that fans still use today.
  3. Despite closing in 2005, Pokémon Forever left a legacy in the community. Chris reflected positively on his experiences and encouraged new fans to explore technology through their interests.

Unity changes: why PC & console devs feel like the 'ugly duckling'

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 393 implied HN points • 13 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. Unity announced changes to its game engine license pricing model based on 'number of installs of your game'.
  2. Unity's engine business for PC/consoles is less important financially compared to its mobile ads/mediation division.
  3. The new pricing model by Unity has caused dissatisfaction among developers, especially PC and console developers.

Lunduke's Quest - December 13, 2024

The Lunduke Journal of Technology • 574 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. Nerds share a common bond through their dislike of Regular Expressions. It's something many people can relate to.
  2. Community among tech enthusiasts is important, as it creates connections based on shared experiences.
  3. Humor can help bring people together, especially when it comes to challenging topics in technology.

The First Ronin Bounties Start TOMORROW!

Ronin’s Newsletter • 578 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🔮 Crypto Gaming
  1. Ronin Bounties are launching soon, allowing users to complete quests in their Ronin Wallet for rewards.
  2. The first set of bounties includes Axie-related quests, offering over 4,000 AXS and special Nightmare Axies as prizes.
  3. These quests will be available for a limited time, so eligible users should act quickly to complete them and claim their rewards.

Under the microscope: Planet Joker (Saturn)

Rings of Saturn • 43 implied HN points • 04 Dec 25
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. Planet Joker is a Japan-only, somewhat clunky Sega Saturn shooter that can be made easier using built-in cheat inputs for unlimited health and stage/weapon selection.
  2. Unlimited health is enabled from the mode select by holding Z+Left and pressing Start, and a debug mission select (letting you choose StageNO, time/score/boss modes and tweak ShootKind/ShootLebel) appears by holding Z+Up+A at the machine select.
  3. The cheats were found by memory inspection; specific addresses and functions control input checks, health resetting, game mode, and mech unlocking (e.g., held-button at 0602b4b8, health flag at 0602b318, game mode at 0602ce60, and an Action Replay code 1602b354 0003 to add the extra mech).

PC game discovery in China: how does it work?

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 196 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. In China, PC games are discovered through popular themes and genres like prison break planning and Wuxia-style RPGs.
  2. Key Chinese services for game discovery include platforms like Bilibili and Douyin, similar to YouTube and TikTok.
  3. Game developers can boost player engagement by giving away in-game cosmetics through personalized codes.

Ongoing Chialisp Development

Bram’s Thoughts • 373 implied HN points • 02 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. On-chain gaming in Chialisp requires optimization at all levels, supporting few players and fast games.
  2. Games are played inside a 'referee' on chain, with hands over a payment channel for low latency and cost.
  3. Chialisp development differs from Solidity in reentrancy design, capability handling, and tooling maturity.

Vol. 2, Issue 31 - The Legacy of Pokémon - Part 6 (Generation VI)

Johto Times • 19 implied HN points • 01 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Gaming
  1. Generation VI of Pokémon introduced exciting features like Mega Evolutions and the mobile game Pokémon GO, which brought new life to the franchise.
  2. The remake Pokémon Omega Ruby received praise for its added story elements and nostalgia, while some felt that Pokémon Y lacked depth and polish.
  3. Playing Pokémon GO created fun and memorable experiences, improving social interactions and physical activity, as well as providing a positive impact on mental well-being.

Which countries played PC and console games... recently?

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 176 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. Research showed which countries had the most players of PC and console games in the last two weeks, with China, the U.S., and some European countries standing out.
  2. The most streamed games in January included Palworld, Escape From Tarkov, and new releases like Enshrouded and Tekken 8.
  3. Recent game platform and discovery news included updates on Nintendo Switch sales, Steam iconography changes, and Roblox's revenue growth in 2023.

Origins S12 is LIVE!

The Lunacian • 414 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. Origins Season 12 has started, and there are 90,000 AXS in rewards for players to compete for over the next 8 weeks.
  2. Players can claim a free Jin avatar in-game as a celebration for the Ronin's grand opening, so be sure to check your mail.
  3. New features, like the Axie Check-In and improvements to Gauntlet Mode, add more play options and rewards to enhance the gaming experience.

Lunacia’s Q3 State of the Nation Address

The Lunacian • 644 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🔮 Crypto Gaming
  1. Lunacia is thriving with a growing number of players and transactions. The community is becoming more active with game participation and collectible trading.
  2. Collectible axies are becoming very popular, driving a lot of trading activity recently. Special features and events have increased their value and appeal.
  3. Overall revenue for the Axie ecosystem is steadily increasing. Small actions, like sales and fees, are adding up to significant income for Lunacia.

Congratulations to the AxieGov Hackathon Winners!

The Lunacian • 690 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. Cyborg Lemur, Daniboo, and Howler won the AxieGov Hackathon. They created great projects that will help the community understand the Axie Infinity Treasury better.
  2. Many contributors helped organize the hackathon, showing strong teamwork within the Axie community. This effort helped bring out individual talent to build useful tools.
  3. There will be more events like this in the future. The team plans to continue improving the projects and getting feedback from the community.

Vol. 2, Issue 12 - My Pokémon Collection (Part 5)

Johto Times • 119 implied HN points • 21 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Gaming
  1. The author has a passion for Pokémon music and enjoys collecting soundtrack albums from the games. Each album reminds them of fond memories associated with the games.
  2. New Pokémon Trading Card Game sets and distribution events for in-game items are coming soon, keeping the community engaged with fresh content.
  3. Physical soundtracks for recent Pokémon games have been announced, and the author is excited to add those to their collection.

Ronin’s Homecoming to Ethereum

Ronin’s Newsletter • 135 implied HN points • 15 Aug 25
🔮 Crypto Gaming
  1. Ronin is transforming into a Layer 2 (L2) solution on Ethereum, focusing on improving gaming and launching new apps. This upgrade will make transactions faster and more secure.
  2. The new Proof of Distribution model will reward builders more fairly, ensuring that those who actively contribute to the ecosystem receive more benefits.
  3. Ronin aims to expand beyond gaming by venturing into areas like DeFi and payment solutions for emerging markets, starting first in the Philippines.

Vol. 2, Issue 21 - Aiden's Parting Pokémon Gift

Johto Times • 59 implied HN points • 23 May 24
🎭️ Culture Gaming
  1. Aiden shares a touching memory about a special Pokémon card gifted to him by his friend Seojin before she moved away. It shows how friendships can leave lasting impressions, even if they become distant.
  2. The Pokémon community continues to grow, with new card sets and events being announced regularly. It's exciting for fans to stay updated and connect over their shared interests.
  3. Nostalgia plays a big role in Aiden's journey with Pokémon, as he takes a break from gaming and later returns to reignite his passion. This shows that interests can come back to life at any moment.

Axie Classic Competitive S6 is LIVE!

The Lunacian • 598 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. Axie Classic Competitive Season 6 is happening for four weeks, with lots of AXS rewards to earn for guilds and players. This is the last chance for guilds to get Placement Points before the next Guild War.
  2. New features like Axie Delegation and Level 2 Card Effects are now part of the game. Players can delegate their Axies or test 33 new card effects in the Cursed Coliseum.
  3. The Guild Point system has been updated to reduce player burnout. Now, only the highest points per player count, and a new guild chat feature allows for better communication among members.

How many games do PC/console players own, & do they 'main' just one?

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 294 implied HN points • 30 Oct 23
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. PC and console players tend to own a large number of games, with varying preferences on the amount of games owned
  2. Steam players show a trend where the number of games owned impacts the diversity of playtime spent on each game
  3. Console players, such as Xbox and PlayStation users, display different patterns in game ownership compared to Steam users

Introducing the Wings of Nightmare Rewards

The Lunacian • 552 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🔮 Crypto Gaming
  1. The Wings of Nightmare event starts on November 21 and includes exciting Axie races for rewards. Players can earn a variety of prizes such as Mystic Axies and AXS by participating.
  2. There's a special raffle where players with Nightmare parts and bodies can win over $50,000 in prizes. The more parts you have, the more raffle tickets you get, boosting your chances of winning.
  3. Top ticket holders in the raffle can nominate one of their Nightmare Axies for a lasting legacy. It's an opportunity for collectors to gain recognition along with their rewards.

🎮 How is Gen. AI Impacting the Gaming Sector?

Overlooked by Alexandre Dewez • 157 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. The gaming industry is challenging for infrastructure startups due to various factors like the long tail of independent studios and project-based nature.
  2. Generative AI tools can automate up to 50% of the gaming value chain, accelerating game development and enhancing quality.
  3. Gaming companies are at varying stages in adopting AI tools, from experimenting with asset generation to integrating AI into core game development operations.

BreakTime - Destroy Your Meetings

eieio games • 119 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. BreakTime is a game that turns your meetings into a fun experience, literally by breaking bricks. You can play it inside Google Calendar instead of just looking at meeting times.
  2. When you play, BreakTime has an option to decline meetings for you after the game. This adds a humorous twist to handling a busy schedule.
  3. The creator of BreakTime was inspired by friends and enjoyed making it, showing how collaboration can lead to fun and creative projects.

$Pixel Is Coming!

The Lunacian • 1334 implied HN points • 05 Jan 24
🔮 Crypto Gaming
  1. The new $PIXEL token will be the premium in-game currency for Pixels.
  2. Players can expect features like guilds, pet mints, and quality of life enhancements with $PIXEL.
  3. Participating in the Play-to-Airdrop 2.0 campaign can earn players a chance to receive $PIXEL tokens.

At the edge of my map

Austin Kleon • 1418 implied HN points • 17 May 22
🎭️ Culture Gaming
  1. Sometimes, we reach a point in life where we feel lost or unsure, like being at the edge of a map. It's okay to acknowledge that feeling without fear.
  2. Being a good friend means listening and asking questions, especially when someone is going through tough changes. Support is crucial during uncertain times.
  3. In life, just like in video games, we might hit invisible walls that stop our progress. Understanding this can help us be patient as we navigate through unfamiliar territories.

Dream Temple’s Axie Maxi tee collection is LIVE!

Ronin’s Newsletter • 36 implied HN points • 01 Dec 25
🔮 Crypto Gaming
  1. Dream Temple launched a limited-edition Axie Maxi tee collection with only 300 shirts available, each priced at $50 and designed in partnership with Axie and Ronin.
  2. The tees are sold exclusively on Dream Temple’s website where you pick size and shipping, and you can pay with RON, USDC, cash, or Ronin Wallet; shipping starts one week after order.
  3. Dream Temple is a lifestyle brand known for collaborations with crypto founders and projects, and this drop targets long-time Axie fans and Web3 fashion supporters.

Who's top of Steam Next Fest for June 2023?

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 314 implied HN points • 26 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. Steam's June Next Fest featured around 1,000 PC game demos with various top performers in different categories.
  2. Important points were highlighted in the ongoing FTC vs. Microsoft case, including PlayStation's role in Microsoft's acquisition of Bethesda and Activision's revenue split tactics.
  3. Recent game platform and discovery news include Meta's VR subscription service, Nike's collaboration with Fortnite, and insights on Chinese game approvals.

Betting the kingdom

SuperJoost Playlist • 178 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. Disney's $1.5 billion investment in gaming highlights the shift of entertainment firms towards the gaming industry.
  2. Microsoft's potential move to release Xbox games on PlayStation has stirred controversy among fans.
  3. Nintendo's decline in earnings, future of the Switch, and Roblox's strategy of user-generated content indicate interesting trends in the gaming industry.

The Grand Stand

Computer Ads from the Past • 512 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. The Grand Stand is a joystick floor stand designed to improve comfort and control while gaming. It helps reduce wrist and elbow fatigue.
  2. It's made of solid wood with a nice finish and was available in two models with different prices. The stand elevates the joystick for better access.
  3. Computer gaming magazines in the early 80s featured this product, noting its benefits for improved gameplay and reduced discomfort.

New Classic Updates are LIVE!

The Lunacian • 368 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. New game updates are here for Axie Classic, just in time for Season 8, with a lot of changes to explore before the regular season starts.
  2. There are two new quest modes: Starter Mode for beginners to earn rewards without needing Axies, and Guardian Mode for experienced players with tougher challenges and better rewards.
  3. Tower Mode has expanded with more levels, allowing players to earn stars and rewards as they progress, plus gear can now be equipped and upgraded to enhance gameplay.

Ronin Meetup BGC!

The Lunacian • 506 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🔮 Crypto Gaming
  1. There's a Ronin meetup happening in the Philippines this Thursday. It's a great chance to see old friends and meet new people.
  2. The event will feature a live show from TheRoninRadio. It should be fun and interesting for participants.
  3. If you register early, you'll also get some cool merch. Don't forget to secure your spot!

Why do some great PC/console games fail to 'go big'?

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 294 implied HN points • 30 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. Some great PC/console games may struggle to become popular despite positive ratings and marketing efforts.
  2. The genre of a game, such as 'Metroidvania', can impact its success due to market saturation and competition from existing popular titles.
  3. Publishers should focus on understanding player behavior, adapting marketing strategies, and fostering organic excitement to improve game reach and success.

One step beyond: how game contracts could evolve

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 294 implied HN points • 15 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. Game development contracts have evolved over the years, shifting towards a structure that allows developers to recoup a percentage of revenue from the first dollar grossed.
  2. Successful game marketing strategies include emphasizing unique gameplay features, clarifying the game's genre, and leveraging multiple channels like social media and newsletters.
  3. Engaging directly with the audience through newsletters and social media can significantly boost interest and wishlist numbers for upcoming games.

Which PC genres convert pre-launch interest the best?

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 294 implied HN points • 15 May 23
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. Consider that the best-converting PC genre tag is 'Escape Room', but creating these games may pose challenges like online co-op mechanics.
  2. While 'Sports' is another well-converting genre, success in niche games might not guarantee significant financial results.
  3. Cloud gaming competition concerns arise as Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard is cleared by the EU, with conditions, amid regulatory scrutiny.

Origins S12 Epic Era is LIVE!

The Lunacian • 322 implied HN points • 05 Mar 25
🕹 Technology Gaming
  1. The Origins S12 Epic Era has started, where players can compete for a prize pool of 24,000 AXS. It's an exciting time to be part of the game.
  2. Collectible Axie holders can earn special rewards by finishing the Epic Era at a high rank. If they hold their collectible Axie for the entire time, they'll receive bonus chests.
  3. There's a new Axie check-in feature that helps players earn points for neat items like Runes and Crafting Materials. Collectible Axies give way more points, making them super useful!