Sportsman Harry Redknapp revealed he’s been suffering from hearing loss during an appearance on This Morning today (March 10) with his wife, Sandra.
The married couple appeared on the ITV daytime show on Tuesday, where Harry expressed excitement to have embarked on another jungle experience after winning I’m A Celebrity in 2018.
Yesterday (March 9), he was confirmed as a latecomer for the upcoming I’m A Celebrity South Africa series, which was pre-recorded last year.
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Other cast members include Scarlett Moffatt, Ashley Roberts, Gemma Collins and Adam Thomas.
Harry and Sandra Redknapp appeared on This Morning today (Credit: ITV)
Harry Redknapp reveals fresh health diagnosis on This Morning
The interview took an unexpected turn when host Ben Shephard mentioned that he hadn’t seen Harry for a while and brought up his recent diagnosis with his hearing.
Explaining how he realised his hearing had gone down, Harry said he took a visit to Specsavers for his eyesight. However, his wife was also concerned for his ears.
“I’ll be honest Ben, when I really noticed it, it was when I was driving the car. You know when your indicators make a clicking noise? Suddenly, I thought all these blokes must know me. They were all going past, sticking fingers up to me! They must be all Arsenal fans, all shouting!” he said.
Clarifying that he was leaving his indicators on, Harry admitted it was “dangerous” and “couldn’t hear them clicking”.
“It could have caused accidents,” he said.
Harry Redknapp revealed he has been suffering from his hearing (Credit: ITV)
Wife Sandra had her concerns
Sandra noticed something was up with Harry’s hearing when she had to start “shouting” when speaking to him. She explained that Harry would accuse her of “whispering”.
“If we went out for dinner, and there was a group of people, I could sense he wasn’t hearing the conversation and joining in,” Sandra continued.
After having a hearing aid fitted, Harry said he has noticed a big difference. “It’s been great, much better. And you can’t even see them!” he added.
Read more: I’m A Celebrity South Africa 2026 line-up slammed by ITV fans: ‘The barrel being well and truly scraped!’
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Luxury fashion has always done well by breaking the rules, but not many styles have caused as much talk around the world like Balenciaga’s destroyed sneakers. At first look, these kicks seem beat-up, marked up and made to look old— almost just like shoes that have been used for lots of years. Still, even with their messed-up looks they cost as much as some of the cleanest fancy sneakers out there. This has left numerous people thinking why such shoes, mainly those from Balenciaga, get such high prices?
The thought of spending extra cash on shoes that seem messy or broken looks strange, especially in a world where luxury usually means being perfect, shiny and without flaws. But fashion now is not only about how things look— it’s about telling stories, cultural meaning and breaking rules. Balenciaga has learned to change what looks like mistakes into a strong fashion message. What some call balenciaga dirty shoes others view as brave signs of new luxury and humor.
The growth of destroyed shoes also shows a bigger change in how people buy. Today’s fancy shoppers like items that start talks, push limits and show style sense instead of just old-school grace. In this case, Balenciaga’s made-to-look-worn sneakers aren’t mistakes or easy ways out, they are thought-out items that show today’s fashion scene, streetwear trends and high-price thinking.
This blog looks at why Balenciaga’s destroyed sneakers cost so much, explaining the social trends, art ideas and money matt͏ers behind their prices. From brand strength and skill in making to ways of selling things and what buyers think, we find out why these well-known dirty shoes are among the most discussed in today’s fancy fashion.
1. What Are “Destroyed Sneakers”?
The phrase destroyed sneakers means shoes that are made to look old, used or broken. Different from regular shoes that go for smooth shapes and perfect build, ruined shoes copy the style of many years of use: scratched bottoms, wrinkled skin, dull shades and planned flaws.
While sad looks are not fresh to style — think torn jeans or old leather coats — using this idea on fancy shoes with high prices makes people curious. When buyers spot purposely scratched shoes with a luxury tag, the first thought is often: Isn’t these just filthy shoes?
Type the words that swiftly joined style talk: Balenciaga destroyed sneakers, styles that appear as if they’ve strolled through every road and town path possible but still have a price tag of many hundred or thousand dollars.
2. The History Behind Balenciaga Sneaker Culture
To get what Balenciaga destroyed shoes mean, we should first discuss Balenciaga as a brand. Started in 1919 by Cristóbal Balenciaga, the name was known for unique styles and new fashion ideas. But, its current change especially with leaders like Nicolas Ghesquière and Demna Gvasalia moved Balenciaga to bold, street-and-luxury looks.
The growth of street wear in the 2010s mixed up the gaps between simple and fancy style. Balenciaga took on this change, working with surprising parts and making items that pushed against old fashion rules. The result? Shoes turned into not just footwear but also social messages. What began with big “dad shoes” changed into purposely unusual designs, ending with the famous Balenciaga destroyed sneakers
These items aren’t only about shoes they show defiance, humor and the high-class wish to challenge its own rules.
3. Cultural Commentary: Fashion as Art & Irony
One of the strongest reasons behind the high cost of Balenciaga ruined shoes is their status as fashion art. In today’s style talk, many makers see clothes and items as bold pieces — just like modern art.
Destroyed shoes often say a lot about:
ConsumerismThe value of luxury in a disposable cultureThe link between realness and fake looks
By showing old shoes with a fancy tag, Balenciaga makes buyers think about what they care about. Is it the style? The name? or the thought behind it.
This funny turn changes destroyed sneakers into more than just shoes. They turn into talk starters, culture comments and things that catch eyes in a time when social media grows on the shocking and surprising.
4. The Luxury Pricing Formula
Knowing why Balenciaga destroyed sneakers cost so much means knowing how luxury brands set their rates. Fancy names don’t just count materials or making costs — they think about:
A. Perceived Value
Fancy pricing isn’t about what a thing is, but what it shows. The Balenciaga logo on a shoe quickly lifts seen worth.
B. Brand Equity
Balenciaga has many years of style history and cultural importance This value lets the͏ brand set prices much higher than common shoes.
C. Scarcity & Exclusivity
Fewer quantities and limited supply make destroyed sneakers more rare, raising wish among gatherers and style lovers.
D. Marketing & Hype
Balenciaga’s planned pushes, famous people backing and fashion shows build excitement and seen wish.
E. Fashion Capital
Having a debated item like Balenciaga’s messy shoes — shows style smarts and cultural value. In other terms, cost shows status, story and place as much as skill.
5. Materials & Craftsmanship
One usual wrong idea about destroyed sneakers is that their worn look means bad quality. In fact, many Balenciaga sneakers are made of good materials like nice leather, soft suede and special fabrics and go through careful making processes.
Even when a shoe seems old, its form, softness and sewing meet high rules. The “broken” look is often from careful planning, special finishing ways and talented work, not carelessness. This mix of careful flaw with secret good is part of what makes Balenciaga’s way so interesting.
6. The Role of Social Media & Celebrity Influence
Social media and famous people’s trends have helped change broken sneakers from a small design idea into a worldwide luxury trend. Sites like Instagram, TikTok and fashion news channels focus on images that start talks and not many items do this as well as Balenciaga destroyed sneakers. Their purposely used, flawed look catches the eye right away in neat online feeds making them easy to share and talk about nonstop.
Famous people and style guides work as strong trend makers in this world. When well-known folks are seen wearing worn-out sneakers in normal places— airports, street photos or casual trips, it makes this look unusual and raises its appeal. What might first be looked at as Balenciaga dirty shoes soon changes into a sign of style trust when supported by fashion leaders. A star’s choice shows that these sneakers are not errors but planned, high-style picks.
Social media makes the story of ruined shoes bigger. Footage from behind shows runway event͏s, pictures for campaigns and reviews from influencers help share the idea, skill and fun in the designs. This online tale gets people to see shoes not just as stuff to wear but as items linked to today’s fashion talk.
Going viral makes luxury more valuable. Bold designs create talk, jokes and news stories, all of this boosts sight without normal ads. Every talk, whether good or bad, adds to the sneaker’s worth in culture. In fancy fashion, notice often turns right into wanting it more.
For Balenciaga, social sites and famous people help spread new ideas into everyday looks. This creates a strong cycle: being seen online raises wish, wish leads to specialness and specialness makes high prices seem fair. In this online fashion time, social media and star support are key in changing how worn-out shoes are seen, valued and bought.
7. Fashion Psychology: What Makes Consumers Buy Destroyed Sneakers?
The charm of ruined sneakers goes well past looks; it is truly based in fashion thinking and today’s shopping habits. At first sight, purposely used or worn-down shoes seem odd to classic luxury beliefs. Yet, for a lot of buyers this mismatch is exactly what makes balenciaga ruined sneakers wanted.
They test normal rules and let buyers show their uniqueness in a shop full of usual styles. One of the biggest reasons in our minds is the wish for a unique identity. Clothes are a strong way to show who we are and worn-out sneakers give a chance to be different. Wearing shoes that seem strange or even odd shows self-assurance and a wish to move away from usual ideas. For people who care about fashion, this brings a feeling of being part of special group that knows what the look means
Another main thing is funny and ironic. Lots of buyers see balenciaga dirty shoes as a way to joke about luxury itself. Paying more for something that seems flawed can feel like a revolt and smart choice, making the buy into a statement instead of just a useful choice. This funny buying lets wearers join in fashion as culture talk.
Lack and social proof also have a big part. Few releases and high costs create a sense of specialness, which makes it more wanted. When famous people, stars and fashion experts wear worn-out sneakers, they give social proof that makes the trend real. Buyers tend to think items are worth more if they are backed by respected folks in their community or culture.
At last, telling feelings through stories affects buying choices. Balenciaga shows its shoes not just as items, but as signs of today’s life, faults and city truth. This story speaks to shoppers who see style as creativity and meaning. In the end ruined shoes attract buyers looking for sense, uniqueness and cultural importance showing that mind plays a big part like design in current luxury shopping.
8. Resale Market & Investment Value
The secondhand market has had a big part in boosting the high believed worth of Balenciaga destroyed shoes. Now, in today’s fancy world, shoes are not just seen as things to wear; they are more and more thought of as prized items. Special releases, limited runs and strong brand wishes have helped Balenciaga shoes do really great on resale markets, especially with trend-savvy buyers ͏and collectors.
A main reason for the resale charm of ruined shoes is how rare they are. Balenciaga often puts out special styles in small numbers, which quickly leads to more want than what’s available. When these shoes run out in stores, resale sites come into play, where costs often match or go above the original prices. This shift turns what might look like odd shoes into valuable fashion buys.
Cultural importance also plays a big role in resale price. Balenciaga gained from a strong show on the runway, fame got people using it and social media visibility. When famous people and style lovers are spotted with worn-out or purposefully “messy” shoes, the demand to sell them goes up. This sight makes it clear that these shoes mean more than ͏just use, they show off fashion power and trend knowledge.
State, funny enough, works differently in this group. While clean state is usually valued in resale shops, the purposely worn look of Balenciaga dirty shoes gives more room. Small wear doesn’t always hurt value since the style itself enjoys flaws. But, limited versions, special colors and early launches often get more money when resold.
From a money point of view, not every pair promises to go up in worth. Styles led by trends can change in price over time. Still, Balenciaga’s most famous torn shoe designs keep their resale value well. For shoppers who get market timing and cultural flow, these shoes can serve as both style signals and important parts of a modern luxury collection
9. Criticisms & Controversies
Sure, Balenciaga’s destroyed sneakers get some bad talk. Lots say that:
The concept promotes unnecessary wasteThe pricing is absurdly highThe style lacks practical appeal
Fashion true fans often talk about if these styles respect the craft or hurt real art. These talks help shape the sneakers’ story — showing that arguments can boost wish for them .
10. How Balenciaga Changed Sneaker Culture Forever
Some fancy brands have changed sneaker culture as much as Balenciaga. Before Balenciaga joined the sneaker talk in a big way, nice shoes mostly stuck to safe rules— simple looks, high-quality stuff and a lot of focus on shine and flawlessness. Balenciaga mixed things up by bringing out sneakers that were purposely too large, over the top and over time worn-out changing how people saw sneakers in both luxury and street wear spaces.
One of Balenciaga’s big gifts was making sneakers real fancy things instead of just shoes you wear. By showing sneakers on runways next to dressy collections, the brand raised their worth like luxury bags and nice clothes. This change let sneakers be a key part of high-end closets, not only casual extras. The growth of thick shapes and worn looks can be linked right back to this change.
Balenciaga also smudged the lines between street clothes and fancy wear. The brand took cues from normal city life— old shoes, practical shapes and odd sizes and changed them with high prices and branding. This method showed street style as a real source of fancy clothing ideas, impacting many creators and labels at various costs. What used to be seen as not stylish or flawed quickly turned into something wanted.
One more long-lasting effect is how Balenciaga changed what buyers want. People who buy sneakers started to care about ideas, humor and culture just as much as good work and ease. The fame of worn-out and strange designs showed that telling a story could bring in buyers just like usual signs of luxury did.
In the end, Balenciaga changed shoe culture by changing what fancy shoes could mean. The brand showed that new ideas, boldness and brave imagination could shape trends all over the world ensuring its mark on shoe culture will last for a long time to come.
11. The Future of Destroyed Sneakers
The future of ruined shoes is linked to the changing idea of luxury and self-expression in clothes. What started as a startling, nearly debatable design choice has turned into a well-known look that pushes against usual ideas of flawlessness. As buyers become more adventurous and fashion focuses more on being unique, ruined shoes are set to stay important but in more complex and advanced ways.
Fancy brands have found out that today’s shoppers aren’t just after perfect items; they want meaning, tales and feelings. Balenciaga helped make this idea real, showing tha͏t worn looks, scratches and “grimy” styles can be part of the top tier. Going ahead, other fancy and modern brands will likely rethink this notion, mixing rugged looks with better materials, comfy tech and greener ways to make things.
The idea of keeping things going, in particular, might change the next step of broken shoes. Instead of just looking worn out, brands could focus more on using old stuff again, materials that have been used before and styles that honor using things more than once and lasting long. Shoes that seem used could show thoughtful buying instead of having too much, matching the worn look with careful luxury. This change would move the trend from being surprising to having a clear goal in design.
Another likely change is personal touch. Shoppers might want their own kinds of wear— light marks for daily looks or big rips for bold outfits. Special drops and art partnerships will also keep the need high, making things feel rare and valuable to resell.
Even if the fancy “dirty shoe” look might fade with time, the idea behind worn-out sneakers is not going away. They stand for defiance against sameness, welcome flaws and fashion’s wish to spark talks.
Over time, ruined shoes will not only be a fad but also an ongoing part of how fancy footwear shows culture, inventiveness and shifting buyer beliefs.
Final Thoughts: Are They Worth It?
The interest in Balenciaga destroyed sneakers goes much deeper than their tattered look. At first glance, they might seem like just purposely scratched shoes; however, their steep prices tell a bigger story linked with today’s luxury scene. These ruined shoes are not made to please all and that specialness is what makes them more wanted. By questioning old v͏iews on beauty, flawlessness and worth, Balenciaga has changed what fancy shoes can mean in the modern fashion world
At their heart, these shoes show how fancy things have changed. They are not just about perfect looks and old styles; today’s fancy stuff includes humor, change and thoughts about culture. What some people call balenciaga dirty shoes are actually well-made fashion items that use top-quality materials, limited supply and a strong brand name. The worth is not only in the actual item but also in the thought, the talks around it and the status tied to having something that goes against what is normal.
Cost also matters a lot. Fancy brands work on how they are seen, telling stories and feelings rather than just what they do. Balenciaga’s ruined shoes gain from showing off on runways, famous people backing them, social media buzz and resale needs— all of which back up their high-end standing. For style-savvy buyers, having such items shows understanding, confidence and a wish to treat fashion like art, not just something useful.
In the end, if these shoes are “worth it” hinges on what each person thinks. For some folks, they cost too much and don’t really work well. For other people, they stand out as cool signs of a daring fashion time. No matter what anyone thinks, one thing is clear: Balenciaga dirty shoes have changed shoe culture showing that even not perfect—when mixed with fancy and art- can hold great worth.
FAQs: Balenciaga Destroyed Sneakers
1. Why are Balenciaga destroyed sneakers so expensive?
They cost a lot because of the brand worth, few options, culture meaning and fancy pricing plan-not only things used.
2. Are Balenciaga destroyed sneakers intentionally made to look dirty?
Yes, the old and damaged look is a careful style pick often called Balenciaga dirty shoes.
3. Do Balenciaga destroyed sneakers have resale value?
Some rare or famous styles can keep good resale value, mostly with buyers who collect and care about fashion.
4. Are Balenciaga destroyed sneakers comfortable to wear?
Even though they look old, many Balenciaga dirty shoes are made with soft bottoms and high-quality build for daily ease.
5. Are Balenciaga destroyed sneakers meant for daily use or fashion statements?
They are mostly style items but lots of folks wear them for fun because they are tough made.
6. Are Balenciaga destroyed sneakers unisex?
Yes, many Balenciaga dirty shoe styles are for everyone and made to fit all people.
7. Do Balenciaga destroyed sneakers go out of style quickly?
As styles change, Balenciaga’s destroyed shoes seem to stay important because of their big cultural effect and famous name.
What is Fabric Protocol (ROBO)? Fabric Protocol is a decentralized network designed to power the growing robot economy, enabling autonomous AI agents and machines to work, interact, and earn value independently. The project connects artificial intelligence, robotics, and blockchain into a shared digital infrastructure.
In this guide, you’ll learn how Fabric Protocol works, the problem it aims to solve, and the role of the ROBO token in the ecosystem. We’ll also explore key features, tokenomics, and potential use cases, helping you understand why some investors and developers are paying attention to this emerging AI-focused project.
Fabric Protocol (ROBO) — Quick Facts
Ticker symbolROBOBlockchainEthereum (ERC-20)Total supply10 billion tokensCirculating supply~2.23 billion ROBOMarket cap$90–100 millionCurrent price$0.04–$0.05Contract address0x32b476eB89f899e4369e02316e6fB75129B1F36EPrimary developerFabric Foundation in partnership with OpenMind AGIKey backerPantera Capital, Coinbase Ventures, and Ribbit CapitalToken launchFebruary 27, 2026Use casesNetwork fees, crypto staking, governance, and developer rewards
What Is Fabric Protocol (ROBO)?
Fabric Protocol is a blockchain-based platform designed to support a new digital economy where robots and AI-powered systems can operate independently. The idea behind the project is simple. Machines and intelligent software could one day perform tasks, offer services, and even earn money without direct human control.
To make this possible, Fabric Protocol creates a decentralized network where AI agents, robots, developers, and users can interact. These interactions are powered by the ROBO token, which acts as the payment and incentive system within the ecosystem.
The long-term vision is to build a global infrastructure that enables robots to access tools, learn new skills, and exchange value with people and other machines.
The Problem Fabric Protocol Is Solving
The robotics industry still faces a major isolation problem. Most robots operate in closed systems, which makes collaboration and shared learning difficult.
Robots from different manufacturers use separate software systems, so they rarely work together.Knowledge gained by one robot usually cannot be shared with others.Developing and deploying robot operators often requires a huge upfront investment.Most people and smaller communities have no way to participate in the robot economy.
Fabric Network aims to solve these issues by creating a shared network that enables robots to communicate, exchange skills, and coordinate tasks. The platform also allows communities to help fund and participate in robot deployments rather than leaving ownership only to large companies.
OpenMind AGI
One of the main contributors to the Fabric ecosystem is OpenMind AGI, a San Francisco startup founded in 2024 by Stanford professor Jan Liphardt. The company created OM1, an open-source operating system designed for intelligent robots.
OM1 aims to give robot makers a shared software foundation, similar to how Android created a common platform for smartphones. This allows different manufacturers to build robots using the same core system.
The software supports several robot types, including humanoids, wheeled robots, quadrupeds, and drones. When combined with Fabric Protocol, OM1 enables robots to share skills, verify identities, and interact economically across a decentralized network.
The Team Behind Fabric
The Fabric Foundation is an independent non-profit that oversees the long-term development of the protocol. Fabric Protocol Ltd. serves as the token-issuing entity and is fully owned by the Foundation.
The project has attracted strong backing from the crypto and tech world. Its $20 million fundraising round was led by Pantera Capital. Other participants were Pebblebed, Ribbit Capital, and Coinbase Ventures, among others. The token sale in January 2026 was oversubscribed within five hours, signaling huge early demand.
How Does Fabric Protocol Work?
Fabric Protocol connects robots, AI agents, and developers through a shared digital network. The platform allows intelligent machines to communicate, access tools, and receive payments for completing tasks.
Each autonomous robot that joins the network receives a unique on-chain identity, which acts like a digital passport. It records the robot’s permissions, ownership, and work history so others can verify who or what they are interacting with.
When a robot completes a task, the network confirms it through a system called Proof of Robotic Work, which verifies that the task was actually performed before rewards are issued.
Once verified, payments are processed automatically via smart contracts, enabling robots or AI agents to receive ROBO tokens instantly without banks or intermediaries. This setup makes it easier for machines, users, and developers to interact in a global robot economy.
Key Features of Fabric Protocol
The Fabric Protocol ecosystem consists of several intelligent parts that make the robot economy feel friendly and fair.
Skill Chips & Robot App Store
Skill Chips are like downloadable upgrades for robots. Just as you download a new app on your phone, a robot can buy or earn a “skill chip” to learn new tricks, such as analyzing a dataset or fixing a small leak.
The Robot App Store is the marketplace where these skills are bought and sold. Anyone can create and sell useful skills, and robots can shop for exactly what they need. This keeps machines learning and improving without waiting for one company to update them.
Crowdsourced Robot Genesis
Robot Genesis lets communities fund and deploy robot fleets in their own areas. People can pool ROBO tokens to activate local robots, like delivery bots or warehouse assistants, without relying on big corporations. This approach reduces costs, opens access to the robot economy, and ensures communities directly benefit from the robots they help launch.
Adaptive Emission Engine
Fabric’s Adaptive Emission Engine adjusts ROBO token distribution based on network activity and the quality of contributions. More tokens are released when verified robotic work increases, and fewer when activity is low. This system links token rewards to real productivity, helping avoid market floods and keeping incentives aligned with the overall health of the ecosystem.
Non-Discriminatory On-Chain Payments
Non-discriminatory on-chain payments mean every human worker, AI agent, or physical robot gets paid equally. Transactions settle via smart contracts with instant, irreversible finality. All payments happen openly on the blockchain using ROBO, so everyone can see the money moved fairly. This builds trust and makes the whole robot economy feel welcoming to small players and big ones alike.
What Is the ROBO Token?
ROBO is the native utility and governance token of the Fabric Protocol. It is built on the Ethereum blockchain as an ERC-20 token, meaning it works with all standard Ethereum-compatible wallets and exchanges. Every economic activity within the Fabric ecosystem revolves around ROBO, from paying for tasks to staking for security and voting on how the protocol should evolve.
ROBO Tokenomics, Supply & Vesting Schedule
The total supply of ROBO is permanently capped at 10 billion tokens. ROBO token distribution is structured across several categories, each with its own vesting timeline designed to prevent sudden market flooding:
Ecosystem & community (29.7%): The largest allocation, reserved for developer incentives, partnerships, and Proof of Robotic Work rewards. 30% was unlocked at the Token Generation Event (TGE), with the remainder vesting linearly over 40 months.Investors (24.3%): Reserved for early backers. Subject to a 12-month cliff – meaning no tokens are released for the first year – followed by 36 months of linear vesting.Team & advisors (20.0%): Allocated to the founding team and contributors. Follows the same structure as investors: 12-month cliff, then 36-month vesting.Foundation reserve (18.0%): Managed by the Fabric Foundation for research, development, and governance. 30% released at TGE, the rest distributed over 40 months.Community airdrop (5.0%): Fully unlocked at launch for distribution to early contributors, ecosystem participants, and community members.Liquidity & launch (2.5%): 100% unlocked at TGE to support exchange listings and initial market liquidity.Public sale (0.5%): A small allocation released at TGE.
Interested in AI crypto coins? Read our in-depth guide on the 6 best artificial intelligence (AI) crypto coins to buy.
ROBO Token Use Cases
From everyday transactions and staking to governance and developer incentives, here are the different use cases of ROBO:
Network fees: ROBO is used to pay for network services, including robot identity verification, task execution, and on-chain data exchanges.Staking: Participants and robot nodes operators stake ROBO to join the network, earn rewards, and signal reliability when providing services. Governance and network participation: Token holders can lock ROBO to vote on protocol upgrades, fee adjustments, and other decisions that shape the network. Payments: ROBO enables direct payments between users, robots, and AI agents for services such as computing power, maintenance, or digital tasks. Developer rewards: Developers earn ROBO by creating skill chips and tools that robots actively use within the ecosystem. Robot Genesis: Community members can stake ROBO to help coordinate and fund the deployment of robot fleets in different regions.Data & compute contribution: Contributors receive ROBO for providing verified training data or computing power that helps support AI development on the network.
ROBO Price Prediction in 2026
ROBO launched in early 2026, so its price is still in the early discovery phase. Initial trading has generally placed the token around the $0.04–$0.05 range, though short-term moves can happen quickly as new exchange listings and announcements appear.
In a moderate growth scenario where Fabric Protocol expands its ecosystem and introduces more robot-focused features, some analysts estimate a potential range of $0.10–$0.18 by late 2026. Strong adoption of AI agents, increasing network activity, and steady developer participation could support this kind of growth.
More optimistic forecasts suggest $0.25–$0.35 if the robot economy narrative gains strong momentum and Fabric shows real progress toward its long-term plan of building its own blockchain for machine activity. On the cautious side, slower adoption or weak crypto market conditions could keep the token closer to $0.03–$0.06 for a longer period.
The most important indicator to watch is real network usage. Growth in robot deployments, completed tasks, and protocol revenue would signal genuine demand for the ROBO token and could influence its long-term price trajectory.
Is ROBO a Good Investment?
ROBO is an early-stage project, and its potential depends on how the Fabric ecosystem develops. The emerging robot economy niche protocol aims to create a marketplace where robots and AI agents can perform tasks and earn payments, giving the token practical utility for staking, governance, and rewards.
Early exchange listings and community interest have boosted visibility, but risks remain typical for new crypto projects, with volatile prices and growing competition in AI and robotics. Investors often look at crypto signals and network activity to gauge timing and potential.
For many, ROBO may make more sense as a long-term narrative tied to the growth of AI and robotics, rather than a short-term trade. As with any cryptocurrency, careful research and sensible risk management are essential before investing.
How to Buy ROBO Token
If you want to buy ROBO tokens, the process is similar to purchasing other cryptocurrencies:
Choose an exchange: ROBO is available on several major platforms, including Coinbase (ROBO-USD), Binance Alpha, KuCoin, Bybit, and MEXC. Pick a reputable exchange available in your region.Create and verify your account: Sign up with your email address and complete identity verification (KYC) as required. This is a standard requirement on regulated exchanges.Deposit funds: Add funds to your account via bank transfer, credit card, or by depositing another cryptocurrency like USDT or ETH.Search for ROBO: Navigate to the spot trading section and search for ROBO. The most common trading pair is ROBO/USDT.Place your order: Enter the amount you wish to buy. You can use a market order to buy at the current price, or a limit order to set a target price.Secure your tokens: For long-term holding, consider moving your ROBO to a personal Ethereum-compatible wallet (such as MetaMask) where you control the private keys.
The Future of Fabric Protocol & the Robot Economy
Robotics companies and AI developers are building machines that can perform real-world tasks. These systems will eventually need shared infrastructure for identity, coordination, and payments. Fabric Protocol aims to provide that foundation.
The project’s 2026 roadmap focuses on rolling out key parts of the network step by step:
Q1: Launch robot identity systems and basic task settlement so machines can securely interact and receive payments.Q2: Introduce verified contribution rewards for developers and data providers who support the network.Q3: Expand ecosystem integrations and grow the Robot App Store with new robot skills.Q4: Improve large-scale deployment tools and prepare the network for broader robot participation.
Looking further ahead, the team plans to build a dedicated blockchain designed specifically for robot activity. If adoption grows, Fabric Protocol could become an important layer supporting a global economy of autonomous AI agents and machines.
Conclusion
Fabric Protocol introduces an ambitious vision for the future of automation by combining robotics, artificial intelligence, and blockchain into a shared digital network. The project aims to create the infrastructure that allows robots and autonomous AI agents to work, exchange services, and receive payments within a decentralized governance ecosystem.
While the project is still in its early stages, its success will depend on real adoption from developers, AI agents, and robotics platforms. If Fabric Protocol continues to build and attract participation, it could become part of the infrastructure supporting a new generation of intelligent machines and digital services.
FAQs
What is the ROBO token used for?
The ROBO token powers the Fabric Protocol ecosystem. It can be used for payments, staking, governance participation, and rewarding developers or AI agents within the network.
How is Fabric Protocol different from other AI crypto projects?
Fabric Protocol focuses specifically on the robot economy, where autonomous AI agents and robots can work, exchange services, and receive payments. Many other AI projects focus only on data or computing power.
Is ROBO safe to invest in for beginners?
Like most cryptocurrencies, ROBO carries risk due to market volatility. Beginners should research the project carefully and only invest what they are comfortable losing.
According to IMARC Group’s latest research publication, “South Africa Telecom Market: Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2025-2033”, the South Africa telecom market size reached USD 4,770.43 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 9,339.27 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 7.75% during 2025-2033.
How AI is Reshaping the Future of South Africa Telecom Market
● AI-powered network optimization is enabling telecom operators to improve service quality and manage increasing traffic volumes effectively, as evidenced by the expansion in 4G and 5G networks.
● AI-driven data analytics are helping providers customize digital content and value-added services, catering to diverse customer requirements from individuals to SMEs and large corporations.
● Government-backed initiatives like Operation Vulindlela Phase II include digital transformation reforms, where AI plays a critical role in streamlining and enhancing service delivery.
● AI applications in mobile financial services and cloud computing allow telecom operators to create new revenue streams through value-added digital offerings.
● Telecom operators are leveraging AI to facilitate bundled solutions with fintech and content players, improving customer loyalty and driving digital ecosystem integration.
Grab a sample PDF of this report: https://www.imarcgroup.com/south-africa-telecom-market/requestsample
Market Growth Factors
The South African market for telecommunications is developing quickly and digital transformation is accelerating, with technology increasingly central to the way businesses and consumers work and innovate. As remote work tools and e-commerce businesses have increased in popularity, demand for fast data has also increased, causing operators to invest heavily in their networks for increased reliability and speed. Government schemes to promote inclusive access are closing the divide between urban and rural areas with subsidized services and spectrum reforms. The mobile penetration rate is increasing and underserved and underprivileged groups are being given access to mobile banking, e-health and cash transfer applications. From these experiences, including the record sales of italy e-bike sales 2023 units, we can draw parallels not only with a national transformation, but also an international story of new sustainable forms of transport and the evolution of South African telecom toward a resilient economy and equitable society.
Infrastructure investment is set to remain a key driver of the South African telecoms sector, as operators roll out next-generation fiber technologies and next-generation wireless services in line with strong demand for bandwidth expansion. Action is supported by public-private partnerships and is designed to strengthen South Africa’s digital backbones against cyber attacks and disruptions. The large demand from consumers for HD video streaming and cloud computing is driving the need for ubiquitous coverage, particularly in higher-growth markets such as Gauteng and the Western Cape. The ability to attract foreign investment through favorable regulatory and policy environments is encouraging faster deployment of resilient networks. Similar, in 2023, growth in e-bike units sold in Italy emerges with nimble supply chain responsiveness, these new telecom advancements in South Africa frame connectivity as a driver of national competitiveness, future-proofing for a changing digital landscape.
As MVNOs enter the South African telecom services market, the landscape will change from competition focused mainly on price to one of differentiation and market segmenting. Deregulation lowers barriers to entry, spurring innovation and targeting of specific niches, such as prepaid services for youth or a low-cost plan for small businesses. Increased interoperability and portability between providers is making switching between them easier. Bundled services such as voice, internet and value added services provide users with their complementary value proposition and increase the opportunities to adopt new concepts. Service providers are investing in common infrastructure and innovative monetization approaches. Similar to other non-telecom analogs such as italy e-bike sales 2023 units where niche products slowly transcend into mainstream products, the MVNO-led evolution continues to open up a huge, vibrant telecom market for South Africa which will most likely continue growing for the foreseeable future.
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Market Segmentation
Services Insights:
● Voice Services● Wired● Wireless● Data and Messaging Services● OTT and Pay-tv Services
Regional Insights:
● Gauteng● KwaZulu-Natal● Western Cape● Mpumalanga● Eastern Cape● Others
Recent Developement & News
● May 2025: President Cyril Ramaphosa launched Operation Vulindlela Phase II, focusing on accelerating structural reforms including digital transformation reforms. This integrates digital strategies to enhance economic growth and job creation, stimulating telecom sector innovation.
● May 2025: Vodacom announced a R20 billion ($1.1 billion) infrastructure investment for 2025-2026, targeting expanded 5G services and improved network coverage in underserved South African regions, reflecting commitment to national connectivity enhancement.
If you require any specific information that is not covered currently within the scope of the report, we will provide the same as a part of the customization.
About Us
IMARC Group is a global management consulting firm that helps the world’s most ambitious changemakers to create a lasting impact. The company provide a comprehensive suite of market entry and expansion services. IMARC offerings include thorough market assessment, feasibility studies, company incorporation assistance, factory setup support, regulatory approvals and licensing navigation, branding, marketing and sales strategies, competitive landscape and benchmarking analyses, pricing and cost research, and procurement research.
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Email: sales@imarcgroup.com,
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Amid creative reshuffles and a shifting luxury economy, Paris Autumn/Winter 2026/27 Fashion Week reaffirmed the capital’s role as fashion’s institutional centre — where heritage houses, disciplined craft and the continuity of house codes continue to shape the global industry. With 67 ready-to-wear shows and 31 presentations scheduled between 2 and 10 March, the week is marginally leaner than last season. Yet the calendar remains the industry’s most influential, culminating in a sequence of collections that demonstrate why Paris continues to function as fashion’s institutional capital. Farewell shows and pivotal transitions underscore the cyclical nature of creative power within the city, even as its historic Maisons reaffirm the authority of their house codes.
Paris as Fashion’s Cultural Anchor
More than any other fashion capital, Paris derives its power from the continuity of its historic maisons. While other cities thrive on novelty, the French capital’s influence lies in the ability of its brands to reinterpret long-established identities while maintaining aesthetic coherence.
Dior
At Dior, Jonathan Anderson staged his second women’s ready-to-wear collection for the house within the Jardin des Tuileries, using the Bassin Octogonal as the architectural centrepiece of the show. Redesigned during the reign of Louis XIV, the formal garden provided an evocative setting for a collection inspired by the theatre of Parisian life. Anderson’s silhouettes echoed the idea of the promenade — a social ritual embedded in the history of the Tuileries — while also recalling Christian Dior’s lifelong fascination with gardens. The result was a collection that linked fashion to the cultural geography of Paris itself.
At Lanvin, artistic director Peter Copping continued his reinterpretation of the Maison’s archives with a collection titled “Bonjour Minuit”. Presented at the Galerie de la Géologie et de la Minéralogie in the Jardin des Plantes, the show revisited Jeanne Lanvin’s notion of le chic ultime. Sculptural coats, fluid dresses and references to the house’s historic robe de style silhouette demonstrated how Lanvin’s early twentieth-century elegance can be recalibrated for contemporary wardrobes without abandoning its core identity.
Celine
The notion of Parisian daily life also informed Celine, where the collection drew inspiration from the everyday rhythms of commuting through the French capital. Rather than emphasising spectacle, the collection focused on clothes designed for movement through urban spaces — tailoring and outerwear that embody a recognisably Parisian balance of restraint and refinement. By grounding its inspiration in quotidian experience, the house reinforced its cultural ties to the city.
Hermes
Meanwhile, Hermès returned to its utilitarian roots that has defined the maison since its origins as a harness and saddlery workshop in 1837. The Autumn/Winter’26 collection emphasised refined practicality: supple leather coats, equestrian references and garments built around movement. In contrast to the theatricality often associated with fashion week, Hermès reaffirmed a philosophy in which function remains inseparable from luxury.
Finally, Chanel revisited the rebellious spirit of Gabrielle Chanel through silhouettes inspired by the La Garçonne era of the 1920s, a period when the house fundamentally reshaped women’s fashion. Low-slung skirts, drop-waisted dresses, boxy jackets and reworked tweeds referenced the revolutionary codes that liberated the female silhouette, while contemporary embellishments and innovative tailoring translated these historic forms into garments that move with the modern wearer.
Chanel
Creative director Matthieu Blazy layered the collection with subtle nods to Chanel’s archive — oversized pearls, metallic trims and ribbon detailing — yet deployed them with a fluidity that feels distinctly 2026. The collection emphasised versatility: separates could be worn in multiple ways, skirts paired seamlessly with boxy jackets or bomber-style outerwear, reflecting a post-pandemic desire for adaptable clothing. Pastel tweeds, metallic threads and iridescent accents were juxtaposed with matte wools and muted neutrals, creating a dialogue between archival reference and contemporary sensibility. To close the show, the final model appeared in a minimalist black jersey dress, a direct homage to Gabrielle Chanel’s little black dress — yet interpreted for a woman navigating multiple roles in 2026: professional, cultural participant and digital-age style influencer. Through this collection, Chanel reaffirmed that its enduring relevance lies not only in archive reverence but in the ability to reinterpret those codes for today’s lifestyle.
Couture Techniques Reinforcing Parisian Authority
Paris remains the only fashion capital where the presence of haute couture continues to influence ready-to-wear collections at a structural level. Many designers used couture-like techniques to elevate everyday garments, reinforcing the city’s reputation for technical mastery.
Hermes
At Schiaparelli, Daniel Roseberry embraced the house’s surrealist heritage through theatrical staging and trompe-l’oeil illusions. Sculptural accessories — including feline-shaped heels with hand-moulded features — echoed the whimsical spirit of Elsa Schiaparelli’s original designs while demonstrating the craftsmanship normally reserved for couture. Across the collection, sharply tailored pieces, satin eveningwear and body-skimming silhouettes were constructed with a level of precision that blurred the line between ready-to-wear and couture. The result reinforced Paris’s reputation as the city where technical artistry remains central to fashion’s creative identity.
Chanel
Another defining theme of the season was the transition between creative leadership — a reminder that Parisian fashion houses operate within long institutional timelines that often outlast individual designers. The most notable farewell came from Alaïa, where Pieter Mulier presented his final collection after a five-year tenure that revitalised the maison following the death of founder Azzedine Alaïa. Mulier’s approach refined what he described as a vision of “modern beauty”, balancing sculptural silhouettes with commercial clarity. His departure marks the end of a chapter that successfully reintroduced Alaïa to a new generation of luxury consumers while preserving the house’s architectural approach to silhouette.
For more on the latest in luxury fashion and style reads, click here.
Days of Our Lives two-week spoilers for March 9th – 20th shock as EJ DiMera (Dan Feuerriegel) drops a bomb and Melinda Trask (Tina Huang) tempted. Let’s dive into what’s coming up in Salem.
Days Of Our Lives Spoilers Monday, March 9th: EJ Threatens Paulina Over Lexie
On Monday, March 9th, Javi Hernandez (Al Calderon) gives Leo Stark (Greg Rikaart) a chance to reconcile. Could be a long shot now that Leo ran off to Alamania with Dimitri von Leuschner DiMera (Peter Porte). EJ feels the heat of Paulina Price‘s (Jackée Harry) wrath.
She wants to shut him and the lab down, but EJ says if she keeps Abe Carver (James Reynolds) from his beloved wife and Theo Carver (Cameron Johnson) from his sainted mother—EJ threatens to tell them Paulina stopped him from bringing Lexie Carver (Renee Jones) back.
Gabi Hernandez (Cherie Jimenez) and Theo bond. Will he tell Gabi he has a crush on her or do some flirting? Gwen Rizczech (Emily O’Brien) tries to get Melinda to flip her loyalty. Can Gwen convince Melinda to fire Dimitri as her client and work for her instead—or just ditch him for a payoff?
DOOL Spoilers Tuesday, March 10th: Dimitri and Leo Cook Up a Plan
On Tuesday, March 10th, Dimitri and Leo cook up a plan to get into Vivian Alamain’s (Louise Sorel) mansion and find evidence to exonerate Dimitri. Brady Black (Eric Martsolf) is there for Belle Brady (Martha Madison) to lean on. Is Shawn-Douglas Brady (Brandon Beemer) shot or another family crisis?
Kristen DiMera (Stacy Haiduk) is an emotional wreck, and is struggling. Is it about Rachel Black or Brady? Alice Halsey had her last air date as Rachel—so will they write her character an exit or keep her offscreen? Liam Selejko asks Arianna “Ari” Grace Horton (Marissa Reyes) on a date. She does like older guys and agrees.
Days Spoilers Wednesday, March 11th: Brady and Steve Question Their Assumptions About Jeremy
On Wednesday, March 11th, Brady and Steve Johnson (Stephen Nichols) question their assumptions about Jeremy Horton (Michael Roark). This week, Brady and Alex Kiriakis (Robert Scott Wilson) have a tense conversation in the square. Can they get Alex to understand that it seems Jeremy was framed?
EJ compliments Johnny DiMera (Carson Boatman). EJ would love him back in his life and Johnny’s torn because of Chanel Dupree (Raven Bowens). Xander Cook (Paul Telfer) and Sarah Horton (Linsey Godfrey) share another nice moment. Probably more bonding over sick Victoria Kiriakis (Emersyn Rose Hartman) with pneumonia.
Paulina opens up to Chanel. But does Mama Paulina spill the tea about Lexie to her? Stephanie Johnson (Abigail Klein) decides to trick Owen Kent (Wes Ramsey) and Jeremy will back her up. Owen kisses Stephanie and she slips her hand into her pocket—gets a phone?
Days of Our Lives Spoilers Thursday, March 12th: Rolf Discovers Something Stunning
On Thursday, March 12th, Dr. Wilhelm Rolf (Richard Wharton) discovers something stunning. Will he see Stephanie and Jeremy in the store room? Or is it Lexie opening her eyes? Kayla Brady (Mary Beth Evans) wants to talk to Cat Greene (AnnaLynne McCord). She tries to get into the lab with Kayla at her side after she tells Cat that Stephanie’s life is on the line and she needs Cat’s help on Days of our Lives.
Rafe Hernandez (Galen Gering) gets asked by Steve for some help. To find Stephanie? This week, Rafe’s in the lab and looking at the pod, but is Lexie still in it? Is she awake? EJ lets Paulina know his plans. Jeremy and Stephanie team up to try and get away from Owen before it’s too late.
Days of Our Lives Spoilers: EJ DiMera – Melinda Trask
Friday, March 13th: Cat Confronts EJ on DOOL
On Friday, March 13th, Cat confronts EJ and asks if he’s behind Stephanie’s kidnapping. Will Cat kiss EJ to get info? Steve and Brady track down Stephanie’s kidnapper. This may be when Steve grabs Owen in the park.
Jeremy embraces Stephanie. So did he finally get out of the handcuffs? Alex assists Rafe. He and Alex find secret door into hidden inner lab. Likely when Rafe finds the pod. This week, Alex rushes into the room where Owen stashed them, but is Stephanie still there?
Days of Our Lives Week Two: March 16th-20th Spoilers
During the second week, Kate Roberts (Lauren Koslow) and Xander prep lawsuit to sue Bonnie Kiriakis (Judi Evans) and DiMera Enterprises for plagiarism. Justin Kiriakis (Wally Kurth) will defend Bonnie. Ari may be in danger by dating Liam. He helped Vivian’s guy, Klaus, do bad things.
We’ll get a new face for Rachel fairly soon? Alice Halsey wrapped her run on March 4th with no character exit. But meanwhile, we have Melinda dropping a package into the mail to Rachel. Will someone open it and find the skin supplements and pass them onto Holly Jonas (Ashley Puzemis)?
Stephanie and Jeremy should be saved from Owen soon—or make a getaway. Lots of people will have to apologize to Jeremy. But Stephanie has already sincerely apologized. Lexie’s awake but will she recognize her family and friends immediately or have some of the side effects of prior resurrections? Memory loss?
Remember they brainwashed Stefan DiMera (Brandon Barash), hopefully EJ didn’t do that with his sister Lexie. Stephanie’s going to be dealing with post-kidnap trauma that Jeremy may be the best person to help her through since he was there.
With Alex’s baby mama Joy Wesley (AlexAnn Hopkins) returning on the way back, this could get messy soon. EJ’s feelings for Cat intensify. More on Leo and Dimitri’s Alamanian adventure.
Dorsey called stablecoins a leap “from one gatekeeper to another.”
Block’s Cash App is building stablecoin support into its core payment flow.
The company’s AI push has already cost 4,000 employees their jobs.
Longtime Bitcoiner and Block Inc. CEO and co-founder Jack Dorsey has very reluctantly gotten onboard with the idea that the company’s customers are embracing stablecoins.
“I don’t like that we’re going to support stablecoins, but our customers want to use them,” he told Wired. “I don’t think it’s wise to go from one gatekeeper to another.”
Dorsey’s hesitant embrace of stablecoins isn’t exactly a heel turn, but it is a departure from his allegiance to the first and largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization.
Dorsey is the kind of BTC aficionado who has compared the Bitcoin white paper to “poetry.” During the same 2020 podcast interview, he told MIT research scientist Lex Friedman that he takes comfort in knowing that Bitcoin inventor Satoshi Nakamoto has remained pseudonymous.
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“I think it was smart not to do it anonymous, not to do it as a real identity, but to do it as a pseudonym,” said Dorsey, “because I think it builds tangibility and a little bit of empathy that this was a human or a set of humans behind it. There’s this natural identity that I can imagine.”
He founded the Crypto Open Patent Alliance in 2020, which would later challenge and win in court against computer scientist Craig Wright’s “false narrative” about being Nakamoto.
During the same interview with Wired, he was very careful to clarify that Block aligned itself with Bitcoin—not crypto more generally—”because I believe the internet needs an open protocol for money transmission.”
Block has embraced Bitcoin in multiple ways, including offering Bitcoin buying and selling through Cash App, enabling Bitcoin payments via its Square merchant terminals, and developing a hardware wallet and modular mining rig system.
The stablecoin mention likely refers to something Block Business Lead Owen Jennings said during the firm’s earnings call in February. During the call, he told investors that the company is in the process of rolling out its new core payment flow.
“Critically, that’s connected to Moneybot, and then it also is the flow that is built to support stablecoins,” he told investors. “So [we’re] continuing to tweak things there and get that rolled out to 100%.”
Moneybot is an agentic AI assistant integrated into Cash App by Block. It was launched in late 2025. The company has said the “always-on” assistant will deliver “contextual insights and actionable suggestions based on customers’ in-app activity.”
The integration of agentic AI has come at the cost of roughly 4,000 jobs, however, or 40% of the company’s staff, as announced in late February.
“Intelligence tools have changed what it means to build and run a company,” Dorsey said in a letter sent to staff and shared on X. “A significantly smaller team, using the tools we’re building, can do more and do it better.”
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EA are making redundancies at the combined Battlefield Studios teams, including members of DICE, Criterion, Ripple Effect and Motive Studios.
IGN reports that individuals are being informed of a “realignment” across the studios, affecting various teams, though all four studios will remain open. We hope those affected are able to find new work soon.
The scale of the layoffs is unknown, but in a statement to IGN, an EA spokesperson said, “We’ve made select changes within our Battlefield organization to better align our teams around what matters most to our community. Battlefield remains one of our biggest priorities, and we’re continuing to invest in the franchise, guided by player feedback and insights from Battlefield Labs.”
All of this is despite Battlefield 6 really striking a chord with shooter fans last year, setting records for the series in terms of sales and enjoying a much more favourable reception than Black Ops 7.
However, the game’s performance and community sentiments haven’t been quite so rosy since then. Even at launch, it was widely accepted that the single player campaign is weak, and that the game was lacking in the kinds of large scale maps that the series was previously known for.
While DICE has made adjustments to the game, fairly quickly reducing the Challenges grind, but they ended up delaying Season 2 by a month, and even then have said that they’re unable to produce more than two maps per season. I can’t imagine that layoffs are going to improve the company output, EA…
In that time, the player count has dropped – per SteamDB, the Steam headcount peaked at 750,000 concurrent around launch, but now tends to hover around 60-70,000. Lifetime user reviews of the game have also slid down to ‘Mixed’ on Steam, with general dissatisfaction at post-launch support.
We would have hoped that the starting sales and success might have bought Battlefield Studios more leeway, but there’s also nothing to say that a “realignment” wasn’t going to take place at this time anyway. The peaks and troughs of hiring and layoffs have plagued game studios for decades, and while live services have helped to shift that somewhat, it hasn’t always.
Whatever the underlying reason, the thousands upon thousands of layoffs we’ve seen the last few years have been awful to see. With EA set to be bought up by the Saudi PIF, I guess they’ve got a reputation to maintain.
It could be said that one of the main purposes of gaming as a hobby is to take you on adventures you may otherwise be unable to experience. That’s why adventure games are one of the bedrock game genres, to the point that a statistical majority of all games could probably be categorized as one to some extent. Unfortunately, with such a massive breadth of games, some are naturally going to slip through the cracks of history, becoming unreachable to us like a dropped quarter in a storm drain.
Related
10 PS2 Games That Never Got Remastered, but Desperately Deserve One
There are so many excellent PS2 games that deserve to return with the remaster treatment.
Many adventure games have managed to successfully resurface in the modern age via remakes, remasters, and digital collections, demand for which is powered largely by fan demand and developer/publisher interest. Even with these revival efforts, some games have yet to make a comeback, remaining trapped on the forgotten corpses of their original systems and platforms. Perhaps, by shining a light on these precious games, we could at least get the rusted wheels of the industry turning and start on the path toward reviving them.
10
Dark Seed
Mike Dawson, Ace Detective
In the olden days of PC gaming, an “adventure game” specifically referred to point-and-click adventures like King’s Quest or Monkey Island. There were a lot of games of this nature released throughout the 90s, with one particular cult classic being the original Dark Seed, released for MS-DOS in 1992.
Dark Seed follows Mike Dawson, a novelist who, after buying an old manor, has a nightmare about horrific extradimensional beings implanting an alien egg into his skull. He’s on a time limit to solve this supernatural mystery and defeat the invaders before his head pops like a water balloon, taking humanity with him. The game features art by the late H. R. Giger, giving it its distinctly unsettling, biomechanical aesthetic.
The game’s writing and voice acting is a bit on the cheesy side, but the creepy vibes are the real deal, especially when the art and animation get uncomfortably detailed. Unfortunately, its developer and publisher, CyberDreams, went defunct almost 30 years ago, so I can’t even begin to guess who to turn to for a port.
9
Amazing Island
Make-A-Monster Workshop
When PokéMania rocked the world in the 90s, everyone and anyone began looking for any possible angle they could tackle the partner monster concept. This led to a lot of similar creature-collecting RPGs, but one little GameCube game, Amazing Island, decided to take things in a slightly different direction.
In Amazing Island, you can create a monster buddy of your own entirely from scratch, drawing its proportions and body parts with your controller, then tacking on accessories like claws, wings, and eyes, and customizing its voice and body color. That monster is then used to compete in a series of Mario Party-esque challenges, such as skipping over water or smashing stone pillars. The further you progress in the adventure, the more bits and bops you unlock for making new monsters.
Admittedly, Amazing Island didn’t knock anyone’s socks off critically, but I have an old soft spot for it as one of my favorite recurring Blockbuster rentals. It’s the kind of game that, if it can’t make a comeback itself, and it probably won’t, I could easily see an indie game inheriting its spirit.
8
Mystical Ninja Starring Goemon
Ninjas and Robots are a Great Combo
The friendly ninja Goemon was one of Konami’s first mascots, making numerous appearances throughout the SNES days in the Ganbare Goemon series, known in the west as Mystical Ninja. On the N64, Goemon got two games, both of which actually managed to make their way westward. These games were the sidescrolling Goemon’s Great Adventure, and the more open-ended Mystical Ninja Starring Goemon.
Unlike Great Adventure, which is a slightly more straightforward sidescrolling platformer, Mystical Ninja is a full 3D adventure with towns and dungeons to explore, kind of like a diet Zelda. You have several playable characters to choose from, each with their own unique abilities for combat and exploration. Each major dungeon is capped off by a boss fight, following which may be an additional encounter against a giant enemy, which you battle in the equally gigantic clockwork robot, Goemon Impact, which also has its own theme song.
Sadly, Konami hasn’t paid much attention to any of Goemon’s games lately, so I don’t know how willing it’d be to fork over the cash for a remaster. I think both Mystical Ninja and Great Adventure would be great candidates for Switch Online’s N64 library, though.
7
Rocket: Robot on Wheels
Baby’s First Physics Platformer
Around the late 90s, games started experimenting more with semi-realistic physics engines. The most prominent example of this is, of course, Half-Life, but over on the console side of things, there was another interesting effort, and from a source you may not expect. That game was Rocket: Robot on Wheels, released in 1999 for the N64 by Sucker Punch.
Rocket is a 3D collect-a-thon platformer adventure starring the titular robot as he visits the many attractions in a futuristic, malfunctioning theme park to restore their functions and depose the park’s mascot gone mad. The game is built largely around physics puzzles and interactions, with Rocket’s primary ability being a tractor beam that can pick up and throw small objects like crates and bombs. It’s not exactly cutting-edge by today’s standards, but it was charming for its time, not to mention distinctly colorful and creative in its visuals.
Sucker Punch doesn’t seem to like acknowledging its more cartoony productions like Rocket and the Sly Cooper games these days, focusing on more serious IPs like Ghost of Tsushima. If we wanted a remake or remaster, we’d probably have to turn to the game’s publisher, Ubisoft, and the odds of that panning out feel… slim.
6
Tony Hawk’s Underground
Somehow, this is Eric Sparrow’s Fault
The vast majority of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater games are straight-up arcade-style affairs. You drop into an open map, you skate within the allotted time, and then you stop. The first major departure from this came to us in the form of Tony Hawk’s Underground, released for GameCube, PS2, and Xbox in 2003.
Underground has all the same basic skateboarding mechanics as its predecessors, but rather than being arcade-style, it’s a full skateboarding adventure. You can hop off your board and explore the various towns and cities you find yourself in, completing missions and uncovering secret areas as you progress the overarching story of becoming a skating legend while battling your nemesis, Eric Sparrow. Curse you, Eric Sparrow.
Related
Tony Hawk Doubles Down On His Love For Tony Hawk’s Underground, Remake Sadly Still Not Confirmed
Fans of the Tony Hawk’s Underground series just had a collective heart attack, with Tony Hawk making yet another cheeky reference to the classic game.
As the Tony Hawk remakes have worked their way through the numbered entries, Underground would be the next logical choice, as the original is otherwise unplayable. At the time of writing, there haven’t been any commitments from Activision, although Tony Hawk himself has gone on record that he would personally like to see Underground get the remake treatment.
5
Ultimate Spider-Man
Save (or Devour) New York
Just about every major video game console has had its own take on Spider-Man, either as a linear action game or, in the later generations, open-world adventures. There were quite a few of the latter category during the sixth console generation, though one of the only ones that wasn’t based on one of the Sam Raimi movies was Ultimate Spider-Man, released in 2005 for PS2, GameCube, and Xbox.
Ultimate Spider-Man, based on the comic series of the same name, tells a two-pronged story of Peter Parker’s daily exploits as Spider-Man and Eddie Brock’s nightly hunts as Venom. At regular intervals, the game switches perspectives between these two characters, both of which have their own objectives and side missions to pursue in the open world. Web-head has all of his usual tricks and powers at his disposal, while Venom can perform soaring leaps and feed on bystanders to refill his constantly-draining health.
When it comes to asking for ports or remasters, Marvel games are a particularly thorny path, as they’re often a tangled mess of copyrights and IP permissions. Activision had the publisher slot back in the day, but at least to my knowledge, it doesn’t have any fingers in that particular pie anymore, leaving the matter up in the air.
4
The Incredible Hulk: Ultimate Destruction
Bring Back the Car Gloves
As open-world sandbox games were the style of the sixth generation, everyone and their grandma was getting one, including any other Marvel superhero that could theoretically handle one. Compared to Spidey, The Hulk hadn’t had nearly as much love in the gaming sphere, but one of his best showings came about in 2005 with The Incredible Hulk: Ultimate Destruction.
Ultimate Destruction was another sandbox adventure, albeit one tuned specifically to Hulk’s particular specialties, i.e. breaking lots of stuff. With his immense strength, Hulk can leap across massive swaths of the open world, crushing soldiers, buildings, and cars with his meatloaf fists. There are missions and side missions to pursue, of course, but you’re just as welcome to bum around and cause trouble. Both give you XP to unlock bigger and better abilities, including the game’s signature mechanic, having Hulk tear a car in half and using it as a pair of metal boxing gloves.
If there’s any hope of a remaster of this game, the ball is once again squarely in Marvel’s court. Vivendi Universal handled publishing originally, but it was absorbed by Activision in the Activision Blizzard merger, so presumably, it’d have first dibs, but only if Marvel deigns to offer them.
3
Mega Man Legends
Why, Capcom, Why
In recent years, Capcom has been gradually restoring access to the greater spectrum of Mega Man titles, mostly through connections. He is supposed to be its mascot, after all, so it’s only right. Even with these efforts, though, there’s a particular subset of Mega Man that’s gone largely disregarded, that of Mega Man Legends.
Originally released on the PS1 and N64, Mega Man Legends was a full 3D adventure, featuring both large, explorable towns and labyrinthine dungeons full of hostile robots. It was a surprisingly dense game for its time, with lots of hidden sidequests and collectables like power-up items and swappable weapons. It also had a very lovable cast of characters, who even had voice acting!
While Legends is a cult classic, it’s treated as a bit of a black sheep by Capcom. It got one sequel and one spin-off, and has largely been abandoned since then aside from some cameos in fighting games. There have been some rumblings about a new Legends collection, but at the time of writing, rumblings is all they are.
2
Metroid Prime 2: Echoes
The Interest is There, Nintendo
It’s no secret that when it comes to software preservation, Nintendo has a bit of a… spotty track record. If we’re lucky, we get retro games on its various digital distribution systems or libraries, but if they aren’t available there, Nintendo would rather you not play them any other way. That’s rather frustrating, because there are a lot of classic adventure games from Nintendo’s own stable that remain inaccessible, such as Metroid Prime 2: Echoes on the GameCube.
A direct follow-up to the previous Prime, Prime 2 built on the 3D action-adventure principles established in that game, while adding the extra wrinkle of dual-world gameplay. Samus regularly has to hop between the light and dark iterations of the planet, braving the latter’s caustic atmosphere to find pockets of safety. It was a cool way to broaden the scope of the game’s world without overbloating it.
With the release of Metroid Prime Remastered, there is a spark of hope that Prime 2 (and Prime 3, for that matter) will get the same treatment at some point. Until that happens, and unless it’s added to the Switch Online GameCube library, we’re outta luck.
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The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
On Three Systems, All Dead
Speaking of Nintendo games, the company has done a relatively better job of preserving access to titles in the Legend of Zelda series, either through remasters, ports, or additions to digital libraries. However, for some reason, there’s a distinctive hole in the Zelda pantheon, right between Majora’s Mask and Skyward Sword: The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.
Not unlike Metroid Prime 2, Twilight Princess also dabbled in dual-world gameplay; in the light world, Link is his usual self, solving puzzles and beating baddies with an assortment of items. In the dark, Twilight realm, he transforms into a wolf, using his enhanced agility and senses instead of items, while his partner Midna snarks away on his back.
Twilight Princess was originally released on the GameCube and Wii, then got an HD port on the Wii U. If I were to hazard a guess, someone at Nintendo doesn’t want to sink any more money into remastering a game that technically already had a remaster, even if said remaster is no longer available. Ergo, we’re just going to have to hope for an addition to the GameCube library.
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9 Best Action Games Still Stuck on Older Systems
The only thing these games can’t punch their way out of is their dead consoles.
Nightdive Studios have announced today that SiN Reloaded will release this year, and there’s a new trailer available to watch right now.
Originally released back in 1998 and set in a near-future dystopian world, SiN: Reloaded puts you in control of security consultant Colonel John R. Blade as you take on the seductively evil Doctor Elexis Sinclaire. When Elexis, CEO of SinTEK Industries, begins injecting the streets with a DNA-altering drug, it’s time to reassess the laws of morality by facing off against Elexis’ unholy army of genetically-engineered mutants. Plus this release comes with the remastered visuals, modern controls and the Wages of SiN extra mission pack.
See the new trailer below:
Highlight Features:
Play the original SiN and the SiN: Wages of Sin mission pack, optimized using the KEX Engine.
Beautifully remastered graphics with HD textures and models (up to) 4K resolution at 144 FPS, anti-aliasing, and upgraded 2D screens and menu art.
Overhauled control schemes and modernized UI for gamepads and M&K.
Improved maps throughout the game.
Swap between remastered visuals and the original SiN Gold version.
Brand-new achievements.
Higher resolution Zak Belika tracks mixed/engineered by Chris Mock.
A vault filled with exclusive, behind-the-scenes material.
