The years 2017-2018 presented a roller coaster of highs and lows for the gaming world. In 2017, Nintendo's Switch revitalized the company's image, while the loot box debacle, with Battlefront 2 at its heart, ignited fierce debates on game monetization. This controversial gaming mechanic not only drew ire from players but also caught the attention of global regulatory bodies. Acquisitions like IGN's purchase of Humble Bundle, and Funko Pop's unfortunate IPO, spotlighted the business machinations behind the scenes. Yet, amidst these industry tremors, retro revivals like Sonic Mania showcased the enduring power of nostalgia. The unexpected success story of Okami highlighted the game's journey from an initial commercial disappointment to a cult classic. Fast forward to 2018, the battle royale genre, spearheaded by PUBG and Fortnite, swept the globe. Epic Games' foray into the digital distribution domain with the Epic Games Store challenged existing giants, promising better deals for developers. Simultaneously, China's freeze on new game approvals sent ripples through the industry, emphasizing the country's growing influence in the gaming sector. However, amidst the gold rush, the darker side of the industry emerged, with studio closures amplifying calls for unionization. These tumultuous years posed critical questions about the future of game design, monetization, distribution, and the very structure of the industry itself.

Featured Games:
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Horizon: Zero Dawn, PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds, Cuphead, Yakuza 0, Destiny 2, God of War, Marvel's Spider-Man, Fortnite, Warframe, Red Dead Redemption, & No Man's Sky.