Good morning. I have some exciting news for you. Today, indeed today, is Friday. Inform everyone you know. Spread the information. Friday is back, folks. And on this splendid Friday, I happily present to you the most recent edition of Morning Checkpoint, *Kotaku’s* daily compilation of video game news and other topics you may find interesting. Today, we explore what happened to an excellent *Black Ops 7* map, discover why *Hytale* is not launching on Steam, and contemplate high console prices.

### Used Xbox consoles are fetching some outrageous prices

Over on Reddit, individuals are shaking their heads in astonishment at the current state of used gaming console prices. In 2025, Microsoft is offering refurbished Xbox Series X consoles for $550. In 2020, I purchased an Xbox Series X at launch for $500. Microsoft is also selling pre-owned Xbox Series S consoles for $330. At launch, the smaller console was only $300, and you could frequently grab it for less if you could find a bargain.

These prices are ludicrous, yet not surprising given how costly consoles are in 2025, due to various factors such as tariffs, inflation, AI affecting demand, and every company aiming to increase profits. Regardless of the reasons for the high prices, it’s unfortunate that this is the first console generation where PlayStation and Xbox systems are pricier five years after their initial release. Moreover, prices are expected to continue rising for both new and used consoles. I can hardly wait to take out a small bank loan to afford a PlayStation 6.

### A well-liked *CoD: Black Ops 7* map has been inexplicably taken down

*Call of Duty: Black Ops 7*’s first season is currently live, and while it has introduced a plethora of new content to the online FPS, it has also removed something: the beloved Blackheart map. This was one of the original maps launched with *Black Ops 7* and rapidly became one of its most favored. But it’s gone now. Activision states it was removed “temporarily” from both private and public map pools as they investigate a vaguely mentioned “issue.” The map will return in a future, but-as-yet-undetermined update.

> 📢 Call of Duty: #BlackOps7
> Blackheart has been temporarily taken out from both Public and Private map pools while we look into an issue. It will make a comeback in an upcoming update.
> Details: [link](https://t.co/rmpoklhguD)

### Recently identified fish species receives *Dragon Ball*-inspired name

As noted by *Dexerto*, a recent discovery of a small fish was made deep in the ocean near an island off the coast of Japan. And, probably due to its vivid yellow markings across its body, the fish has been assigned the scientific name Vanderhorstia Supersaiyan. Indeed, this is a *Dragon Ball Z* fish. You can find further details about the fish [here](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10228-025-01047-6).

### Newly revived *Hytale* won’t launch on Steam

Earlier this year, *Minecraft*-inspired survival game *Hytale* was canceled by Riot Games. Then, in November, the original creator of the project managed to negotiate the rights back for the game, and now *Hytale* is back in development with some of the team that was previously working on it before it was shelved. However, when it launches in early access, you won’t be able to find it on Steam.

As detailed in a new FAQ on the game’s website, the developers plan to steer clear of Steam for a while to concentrate on its current community and enhance the game instead of pursuing “a surge of cold first impressions that could misdirect the game’s progress.” The post clarifies that the team is not trying to avoid “bad reviews,” but I imagine that’s part of the rationale for the team’s decision to stay away from Steam until the game reaches an acceptable state. A game on Steam with negative or mixed reviews can be tough to recover from. I’m curious to see if more teams choose this approach.

### ICYMI:

### Watch This:

I will begrudgingly accept that Black Friday, bleak as it is to anyone who didn’t grow up with framed spreadsheets above their beds, is at least a good opportunity to pick up dirt-cheap PC storage. Case in point, today’s sales include some nice, sharp slashings on some of the best Steam Deck microSD cards.

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**Comprehending the Repercussions of *Postal: Bullet Paradise*: An Examination of Gaming Reactions**

The *Postal* series, famous for its lewd humor and contentious themes, has encountered considerable criticism lately following the announcement and swift cancellation of its latest installment, *Postal: Bullet Paradise*. This article explores the scenarios surrounding this recent event, the characteristics of the backlash, and the consequences for the future of the *Postal* franchise.

### Overview of the *Postal* Series

Developed by Running With Scissors (RWS), the *Postal* franchise has been linked to shock appeal and socially incorrect humor for many years. The initial game, launched in 1997, established the foundation for the series with its darkly comedic storyline featuring a postal worker embarking on a violent spree. Despite its provocative themes, the game faced commercial challenges, ultimately leading RWS to consider diverse development strategies, including collaborating with other studios.

Throughout the past twenty years, the *Postal* series has undergone several iterations, experiencing various levels of success. The latest release before *Bullet Paradise*, *Postal 4: No Regrets*, was launched in 2022 with the aim of revitalizing the franchise’s image. Nevertheless, it too received mixed reviews and raised concerns regarding the brand’s sustainability.

### The Revelation of *Postal: Bullet Paradise*

On December 3, 2025, RWS unveiled *Postal: Bullet Paradise*, a spin-off designed to reflect popular games like *Vampire Survivors* and incorporate a co-op bullet-hell gaming experience. The announcement was met with the usual blend of enthusiasm and doubt from the *Postal* community, but a more troubling sentiment soon surfaced concerning the game’s development.

### The Backlash Regarding AI Implementation

Fewer than 48 hours post-announcement, *Postal: Bullet Paradise* was met with a significant backlash largely due to claims related to the use of AI-generated assets during its creation. Members of the gaming community voiced their worries on platforms such as Reddit, asserting that the pixel art and assets featured in the trailer seemed to be AI-generated. Detractors contended that this constituted a betrayal of the artistic standards that RWS had historically defended.

The backlash compelled RWS to release a public statement recognizing the issues brought forth by fans. The company expressed regret, asserting that the incorporation of AI materials severely harmed the brand’s image, leading to the game’s cancellation. “Our confidence in the development team has been shattered,” the statement remarked, highlighting a dedication to transparency with their audience.

### Consequences of the AI Backlash

The rapid backlash against *Postal: Bullet Paradise* prompts significant inquiries about the future of game development, especially regarding the integration of artificial intelligence. Ironically, RWS had recently criticized industry leaders championing AI in game creation, underlining the inconsistencies and complexities in their perspective on creativity versus technology.

The cancellation of *Bullet Paradise* acts as a cautionary example for game developers regarding the possible ramifications of employing AI-generated content without clear communication to the fans. The incident highlights the increasing viewpoint among gamers that artistry and creativity should dominate game design, resisting the impersonal aspect of AI-generated creations.

### Conclusion: The Path Ahead for the *Postal* Franchise

As the *Postal* series strives to define its place in a changing gaming environment, the halt of *Postal: Bullet Paradise* sent shockwaves through the community. With stark reminders of historical controversies and evident pushback against contemporary development trends, RWS faces a challenging road in regaining player confidence.

Looking ahead, achieving a balance between innovation and artistic integrity will be crucial for the series. The gaming industry will be observing closely to see how Running With Scissors navigates this intricate landscape, as the future of *Postal* hangs in an increasingly fragile balance.