What is CS2 Animgraph 2?

Animgraph 2 is an updated animation infrastructure for Counter-Strike 2. It reduces CPU and networking costs while re-authoring all third-person animations for a smoother experience.

How do I download the CS2 Animgraph 2 beta?

Go to the Betas tab in the Counter-Strike 2 Properties window on Steam and select the animgraph_2_beta build to download the beta files.

Can I play online in the CS2 Animgraph 2 beta?

No, Valve matchmaking is not available in the beta build. You must opt out of the beta to play on official servers.

Does the CS2 update affect grenade lineups?

Yes, because the player height logic on ramps has been refactored, some grenade lineups on sloped surfaces may have changed.

Is Danger Zone coming back to CS2?

A new Cash Stack 3D model was found in the update files, which might hint at a new game mode or the return of Danger Zone, although nothing has been officially confirmed yet.

When will the new Steam store design be released?

The new Steam store homepage design is currently being tested in the beta client. A final release date has not been announced yet, but it can be tried immediately via beta.

How do I try the new Steam store design?

You can try the new design by opting into the Steam beta program in your desktop client settings. Simply enable beta participation in the Settings menu.

What has changed on the Steam homepage?

The new design features high-resolution imagery, micro trailer previews, an updated in-page discovery queue, dedicated wishlist and DLC sections, and refreshed infinite scrolling.

Does the new Steam design work on Steam Deck?

Yes, the new Steam homepage design is also available and optimized for Steam Deck and Big Picture mode.

What is a Steam micro trailer?

A micro trailer is a short video preview that plays automatically when you hover over a game's capsule image. It's designed to give a quick glimpse of gameplay directly from the homepage.

How much did Windows 11 usage drop on Steam?

According to Steam's February 2026 hardware survey, Windows 11 usage dropped approximately 17%, falling from around 70% in January to 58% in February.

Are Steam users switching from Windows 11 to Linux?

No. Despite the social media trend of users claiming to switch to Linux, Steam's data shows Linux actually lost 1.15 points, dropping to 2.23%. The vast majority of users leaving Windows 11 went back to Windows 10.

What is the most popular operating system on Steam in 2026?

As of February 2026, Windows 11 64-bit remains the most popular OS on Steam at 56.28%, followed by Windows 10 64-bit at 40.25%. However, Windows 10 is rapidly closing the gap.

What is the most popular GPU on Steam in February 2026?

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 saw the largest growth in February 2026, surging 6.40 points to reach a 9.12% share among Steam users.

How often does Steam release its hardware survey?

Valve publishes the Steam hardware survey on a monthly basis, providing detailed statistics on the hardware and software configurations of Steam users worldwide.

When is Xbox Games Showcase 2026?

Xbox Games Showcase 2026 airs on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 10am PT / 1pm ET / 6pm BST.

What is Gears of War E-Day Direct?

Gears of War: E-Day Direct is a dedicated presentation airing immediately after Xbox Games Showcase 2026. The Coalition Studio will reveal new gameplay footage and detailed information about Gears of War: E-Day, a prequel to the Gears of War franchise.

Where can I watch Xbox Games Showcase 2026?

The event will be streamed on YouTube.com/Xbox, Twitch.tv/Xbox, Twitch.tv/XboxASL, and Facebook.com/Xbox in over 40 languages.

What is Xbox FanFest 2026?

Xbox FanFest is returning as part of Xbox's 25th anniversary celebrations during the Showcase. US residents can enter for free tickets at xbox.com/fanfest before April 12, 2026.

When does Gears of War E-Day release?

Gears of War: E-Day is expected to release later in 2026. An exact release date has not been announced yet.

What is the new price of PS5?

Starting April 2, 2026, the PS5 will be priced at $649.99 in the U.S., €649.99 in Europe, and £569.99 in the U.K.

How much does the PS5 Pro cost now?

The PS5 Pro's new MSRP is $899.99 in the U.S., €899.99 in Europe, and £789.99 in the U.K.

When does the PlayStation price hike take effect?

The new prices for PS5, PS5 Pro, and PlayStation Portal will go into effect on April 2, 2026.

What is the new price of the PlayStation Portal?

The PlayStation Portal will now retail for $249.99 in the U.S. and €249.99 in Europe.

What are the minimum system requirements for Forza Horizon 6?

At minimum settings (1080p/60 FPS), Forza Horizon 6 requires an Intel Core i5-8400 or AMD Ryzen 5 1600 CPU, NVIDIA GTX 1650 or AMD RX 6500 XT or Intel Arc A380 GPU, 16 GB RAM, and an SSD.

What are the recommended system requirements for Forza Horizon 6?

For the recommended settings (1440p/60+ FPS, High preset), you'll need an Intel Core i5-12400F or AMD Ryzen 5 5600X CPU, NVIDIA RTX 3060 Ti or AMD RX 6700 XT or Intel Arc A580 GPU, 16 GB RAM, and an SSD.

When is the release date for Forza Horizon 6?

Forza Horizon 6 is scheduled to release on May 19, 2026, for PC and Xbox Series X|S. Premium Edition owners can enjoy early access starting May 15.

What are the requirements for Ray Tracing in Forza Horizon 6?

For the Extreme RT settings (4K upscaled, ray tracing enabled, 60+ FPS), the game requires an NVIDIA RTX 5070 Ti or AMD RX 9070 XT GPU, Intel Core i7-12700K or AMD Ryzen 7 7700X CPU, and 32 GB RAM.

When will 007: First Light be released?

Developed by IO Interactive and Amazon MGM Studios, 007: First Light is scheduled for release on May 27, 2026.

What are the system requirements for 007: First Light?

The game requires a Ryzen 5 3500 or i5 9500K processor and a GTX 1660 graphics card for minimum settings (1080p/30FPS). For recommended settings (1080p/60FPS), a Ryzen 5 7600 or i5 13500 processor with an RTX 3060 Ti graphics card and 32 GB of RAM is required. The game requires 80 GB of storage space.

Which platforms will 007: First Light be released on?

007: First Light will launch on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, the Xbox ROG Ally series, and the next-generation Nintendo Switch 2 platform.

What are the 007: First Light pre-order bonuses?

Users who pre-order the game will be upgraded to the Deluxe Edition for free. This benefit includes 24-hour early access to the game and exclusive in-game cosmetic content.

When is Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey releasing?

Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey is scheduled for theatrical release on July 17, 2026.

What is The Odyssey movie about?

The film adapts Homer's classical epic, shot across various global locations, delivering a mythological action epic.

What technology was used to film The Odyssey?

Christopher Nolan's latest film was shot entirely using new IMAX film technology, bringing the story to IMAX screens with unprecedented technical precision.

What are the minimum system requirements for Hytale?

Hytale's minimum system requirements are: 64-bit Windows 10/11, Intel Core i5-7500 or AMD Ryzen 3 1200 processor, 8-12 GB RAM, Intel UHD 620, AMD Radeon Vega 3, or NVIDIA GTX 900/AMD Radeon 400 series graphics card, and 20 GB SSD storage space. These requirements target 30 FPS performance at 1080p resolution.

How much storage space does Hytale require?

Hytale's installation size is 8 GB. However, save file size varies depending on exploration due to the procedurally generated world. Approximately 661 MB of additional space is required for exploring 5000x5000 blocks. A total of at least 20 GB free space is recommended.

When is Hytale releasing?

Hytale will launch in Early Access for PC in January 2026. Work on Mac and Linux versions is ongoing, but no specific date has been announced yet.

Is an SSD required for Hytale?

Yes, an SSD is strongly recommended for Hytale. Minimum requirements specify a SATA SSD, while recommended requirements call for a standard SSD. NVMe SSD is advised for streamers and content creators.

Can Hytale run on GTX 900 series graphics cards?

Yes, NVIDIA GTX 900 series graphics cards are included in both minimum and recommended system requirements. With the GTX 900 series, you can achieve performance between 30-60 FPS at 1080p resolution.

Is an internet connection required for Hytale?

After downloading Hytale, you can play offline in singleplayer mode. However, an internet connection is required for multiplayer mode. Download speeds between 2-10 Mbit/s are recommended depending on view distance.

Will Hytale work on Steam Deck?

Hypixel Studios does not yet have testing capabilities for Steam Deck. It is expected to work on paper, but good input mappings and small display UI are not yet ready. The Steam launch will not occur until compliance with Steam's policies is determined.

What are the recommended system requirements for Hytale streamers?

For streaming at 1440p 60 FPS: Intel Core i7-10700K or AMD Ryzen 9 3800X processor, 32 GB RAM, NVIDIA RTX 30 Series or AMD Radeon RX 7000 Series graphics card, and NVMe SSD are recommended. Using a separate drive for recording is advised.

What are the minimum system requirements for Football Manager 26?

Requires Windows 10/11 (22H2/23H2), an Intel Core i3-530 or AMD FX-4100 processor, 4 GB of RAM, an NVIDIA GTX 960 / AMD R9 380 / Intel HD 530 graphics card, DirectX 11, and 20 GB of available storage space.

What are the recommended system requirements for Football Manager 26?

Requires Windows 11 (23H2), an Intel Core i5-9600 or AMD Ryzen 5 2600 processor, 12 GB of RAM, an NVIDIA RTX 2060 / AMD RX 5600 XT graphics card, DirectX 11, and 20 GB of available storage space.

What are the minimum system requirements for Battlefield 6?

For 1080p at 30 FPS on low settings, you'll need an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 / AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT / Intel Arc A380, 6 GB VRAM, an Intel Core i5-8400 / AMD Ryzen 5 2600, 16 GB RAM (2133 MHz), Windows 10, DirectX 12, and about 55 GB of storage.

What are the recommended system requirements?

For 1440p at 60 FPS on high settings, the recommendation is an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti / AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT / Intel Arc B580, 8 GB VRAM, an Intel Core i7-10700 / AMD Ryzen 7 3700X, 16 GB RAM (3200 MHz), Windows 11 64-bit, DirectX 12, and 90 GB of SSD storage.

What hardware is needed for Battlefield 6 on Ultra settings?

For 4K at 60 FPS on ultra settings, you'll need an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 / AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX, 16 GB VRAM, an Intel Core i9-12900K / AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D, 32 GB RAM (4800 MHz), Windows 11 64-bit, DirectX 12, and 90 GB of SSD storage.

Morbid Metal Review

EdgeTypE — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Morbid Metal Morbid Metal review Morbid Metal early access review

Morbid Metal Review

EdgeTypE

• April 3, 2026

First, I should make it clear that I’m probably not the right person for this review. Nobody on our team is a dedicated rogue-like enthusiast, so the job fell to me. Think of this less as an expert breakdown and more as a first impression from someone who’s largely outside the genre. I won’t be able to tell you what Morbid Metal brings to the rogue-like table compared to its peers — because I barely know the table.

With that caveat out of the way: Morbid Metal is a rogue-like. One of those games where you start from scratch every run. Outside of picking up Dead Cells for an hour every couple of years, I have virtually no experience with the genre.

A Simulation

The premise puts you inside a simulation; each run boots up a new session. The game drops you into a mostly linear environment and, after every enemy encounter, offers you three choices — different abilities, upgrades, and the like. You pick and stack them to shape your build for that particular run.

There are three playable characters. Unfortunately, the review period wasn’t long enough for me to unlock the third. You can swap between characters at any point during gameplay — mid-fight, mid-air, mid-everything — with a single button press, and honestly, it feels great.

Each character has three abilities with individual cooldowns. Instead of waiting around for one character’s cooldowns to refresh, you switch to another and use theirs. It creates a genuinely fluid combat loop. The action system is hack-and-slash at its core: you’re swinging your weapon at swarms of enemies. The pacing is fast and the game constantly demands movement — stand still and you’ll be punished quickly.

You can also swap out each character’s abilities with ones you find during a run. Higher damage but longer cooldown, or lower damage with a shorter cooldown — there’s room to experiment with different combinations.

Picture the progression as dungeon after dungeon, connected by corridors. Don’t let the word “dungeon” mislead you though; the game takes place in a bright, vibrant, open-feeling environment — at least the first area does. After clearing each dungeon, you’re presented with three upgrade options. These can be general improvements or character-specific enhancements. The closest experience I’ve had to something like this was Vampire Survivors.

Personally, I can’t say the upgrades — at least in the early game — dramatically change how the game feels. Similarly, there isn’t a massive difference between the first two characters’ playstyles. But as you progress and unlock permanent upgrades, I’d expect this to shift.

There are also occasional platforming sections scattered across the map. You dodge lasers, jump across gaps — that sort of thing. They feel like filler. No real depth or challenge to them, at least as far as I played. You can pick up abilities or health from some of these segments, but most of them feel like busywork.

The Technical Side

Although Morbid Metal is published under Ubisoft, this isn’t a big-budget production. Temper your expectations accordingly. The developer, Felix Schade, built the game’s first version as a university project ten years ago. A few years later, he posted a gameplay clip on Reddit, got a positive response, and assembled a team of ten people. They cite Bayonetta, NieR: Automata, Devil May Cry, Returnal, and Hades as inspirations, and say they kept asking themselves “Is the game fun enough?” throughout the development process. After seven years of work, here we are.

First off, I genuinely liked how the game looks. It reminded me a bit of Bright Memory. It has a photorealistic, good-looking world. There’s some blurriness and softness in the image, but the game is still in early access and I was pushing max settings on an RTX 4060, so that’s somewhat expected.

One technical issue really bothered me. Morbid Metal is naturally a game where you die and restart — a lot. You die, sit through a long loading screen, arrive at the simulation’s hub area, walk to the center to start a new run, and then sit through another long loading screen. Despite having a modern M2 SSD, the loading times felt excessive. Two lengthy loading screens back-to-back really break the game’s momentum.

Beyond that, there’s a design issue that bugged me. The map doesn’t always make it clear where you can and can’t go. I’m not talking about whether your abilities are sufficient to reach a certain spot — I mean it’s sometimes genuinely unclear whether a location is out of bounds or somewhere you’re supposed to head toward.

The Bottom Line

If you’re into rogue-likes, I’d say give Morbid Metal a look. There’s already a free demo available, so try it out and see if it clicks. Speaking as someone who’s largely indifferent to the genre, the game managed to pull me in. I enjoy hopping on for two or three runs whenever I find time between work. That’s essentially what the game promises, and it delivers.

According to the developers, there’s currently about 10 hours of content. However, the game has high replayability, and more content will be added as the early access period continues.

Gaming-DB

Morbid Metal Early Access

As someone outside the genre, it managed to keep me playing.

pros

cons

Great visuals

Early access game

Thanks to Ubisoft for providing a review code.

Notice

This review is based on the early access version of the game and does not reflect a finished product experience.

Counter-Strike 2 Animation System Rebuilt: Animgraph 2 Beta Now Live

Elwood — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 07:46:00 GMT

CS2 update Counter-Strike 2 Animgraph 2 CS2 animation update

Counter-Strike 2 Animation System Rebuilt: Animgraph 2 Beta Now Live

Elwood

• April 2, 2026

CS2’s Animation Infrastructure Is Changing Completely

Valve has announced that it’s moving the Counter-Strike 2 animation system to a new infrastructure called Animgraph 2. This update is now live in beta, and Valve is seeking feedback from players.

Animgraph 2 aims to significantly reduce CPU and networking costs associated with animations. Along with the technical overhaul, all third-person animations have been re-authored from scratch. Valve notes that many animations have been adjusted based on player feedback.

The changes don’t stop there. Air-crouching transitions have been smoothed in both first and third-person views. The logic for player height on ramps has also been refactored; player height is now consistent, regardless of approach direction. As a side effect, grenade lineups on sloped surfaces may have changed.

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Engine and Gameplay Changes

The update extends beyond just animations. The Source 2 engine code has been updated to the latest version. On the gameplay side, there’s a noteworthy change: player occlusion now uses GPU queries. This prevents players from clipping through thin walls when no part of their bounding volume is visible.

For CS Script, a new GetRoundRemainingTime function has been added.

Audio Improvements

Extensive fixes and improvements have been made to the audio:

Jump landing sounds have been accentuated to be more distinct during combat.
A new C4 equip sound has been added.
Ambient sound levels have been adjusted.
Missing ambient sounds on team selection and end-of-match screens have been fixed.
Missing sounds in the main menu UI have been resolved.
Sound mixing while taking damage has been improved.
A bug where the DeathCam music cue caused volume ducking for too long has been fixed.
Vertical occlusion in Nuke and Vertigo is now more gradual at the edges of transition points.
Various audio adjustments have been made to Baggage, Shoots, Ancient, Nuke, and Vertigo.

New 3D Model in Files: Cash Stack

A new 3D model was discovered in the game files: Cash Stack. This finding could point to a potential new game mode or the return of Danger Zone. While there’s no official word yet, the community is already buzzing with speculation.

How to Join the Beta

Players who want to try the Animgraph 2 beta can follow these steps:

Open the Steam client and go to your Library.
Right-click Counter-Strike 2 and open the Properties window from the Manage menu.
Select the Betas tab.
Select the animgraph_2_beta build from the dropdown.
Launch Counter-Strike 2.

Note: You cannot connect to Valve servers while using the beta build. To return to the public version, simply select “None” in the Betas tab.

To report bugs or provide feedback, you can email csgoteamfeedback@valvesoftware.com with the subject “AG2 Beta”.

Steam Store Unleashes New Design: Home Page Gets a Complete Overhaul

Elwood — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 21:28:00 GMT

Steam store new design Steam store redesign Steam homepage update

Steam Store Unleashes New Design: Home Page Gets a Complete Overhaul

Elwood

• April 1, 2026

Steam Store Gets a Fresh New Look

Valve has announced a complete overhaul of the Steam store homepage. The updated design is currently available for testing through the Steam beta client. To try it out, simply opt into the latest Steam beta from your desktop client settings.

This update follows the game page improvements made a few months ago. Valve aim to make finding new games even easier with a new layout that displays more content and information at a glance. Higher resolution game imagery is now used throughout for better visual clarity. Users with high-resolution monitors will notice the new homepage is wider and provides a faster, snappier experience. These updates are also visible on Steam Deck and in Big Picture mode.

Tarayıcınız video etiketini desteklemiyor.

What’s Changed?

A Completely New Design

Over the years, Valve added many sections to the homepage, which eventually led to a cluttered interface. The new update aims to de-clutter the experience while increasing consistency between interface elements. The result is a more organized and readable homepage that highlights the unique features of each section.

Featured & Recommended

This section now emphasizes why a game is being recommended to you with more detailed information, including a summary of user reviews. Additionally, hovering over a game’s capsule image will trigger a micro trailer, giving you a quick look at the gameplay. Short previews for adjacent games in the carousel have also been added.

Motion Sensitivity Options

Valve has considered users with motion sensitivity. The automatic playback of micro trailers and animated marketing materials can be completely disabled in the store settings.

Sales & Events

This section now utilizes larger game imagery, making it much easier to keep track of ongoing discounts and special events visually.

Updated Discovery Queue

The discovery queue can now be browsed without leaving the page. There’s no longer a need to navigate to a separate page to check out games; you can progress through your queue directly from the homepage.

Tarayıcınız video etiketini desteklemiyor.

Hover State Improvements

When hovering over games, a brief description is now displayed along with other key info. The interface has been updated for better contrast and readability.

Infinite Scrolling

The design of the infinite scrolling section at the bottom of the homepage has been refreshed to be both visually and functionally consistent with the rest of the page.

New Sections

The update introduces two highly-requested sections:

Your Wishlist: Displays games from your wishlist that are currently on sale, directly on the homepage.
DLC for Your Games: Shows discounted DLC for games already in your library, making it easier to find additional content for titles you love.

How to Join the Beta

If you want to try the new look, you can access the updated homepage by joining the Steam beta program in your desktop client settings. Detailed instructions can be found on the Steam Support page.

Valve emphasizes that they make decisions based on data and community feedback. Trying out the new design and sharing your thoughts will directly influence the final version.

Steam Users Are Fleeing Windows 11: 17% Drop in Just One Month

Elwood — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 07:44:00 GMT

Steam hardware survey Steam hardware survey February 2026 Steam survey results

Steam Users Are Fleeing Windows 11: 17% Drop in Just One Month

Elwood

• April 1, 2026

Steam Hardware Survey: The Great Windows 11 Exodus

Steam’s monthly hardware survey just dropped its February 2026 results, and the numbers tell a striking story. Windows 11 usage among Steam users fell by roughly 17% in a single month. In January, 70% of all Steam users were on Windows 11. By February, that number had plummeted to 58%.

So where did all those users go? The answer is surprisingly straightforward: they went back to Windows 10.

Windows 10 Makes an Unexpected Comeback

Windows 10’s share among Steam users jumped from 29% in January to 41% in February — a 12-point surge in just 30 days. The vast majority of users leaving Windows 11 went straight back to its predecessor.

Despite Microsoft’s plans to end Windows 10 support, a significant portion of gamers continue to prefer the older operating system. Performance concerns, compatibility issues, and dissatisfaction with Windows 11’s interface changes are among the most commonly cited reasons for the migration.

Linux and macOS Also Lost Ground

If you’ve been seeing “I switched to Linux” posts flooding your social media feeds lately, you might be surprised by the actual data. Linux dropped 1.15 points to 2.23%, while macOS fell 0.85 points to 1.16%.

In other words, it wasn’t Linux or macOS that absorbed the Windows 11 exodus — it was Windows 10. In fact, both Linux and macOS saw their own user bases shrink as well.

Operating System	January 2026	February 2026	Change
Windows 11	~70%	56.28%	-10.43 pts
Windows 10	~29%	40.25%	+12.46 pts
Linux	~3.38%	2.23%	-1.15 pts
macOS	~2.01%	1.16%	-0.85 pts

Hardware Highlights

The survey’s hardware section also revealed some notable shifts:

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 climbed 6.40 points to reach a 9.12% share, signaling rapid adoption of next-gen GPUs.
32 GB RAM is now the standard — usage surged 18.91 points to 56.93% of all Steam users.
1920x1080 remains the most popular resolution but dropped 7.55 points, as more gamers move to higher resolutions.

What Does This Mean?

The Steam hardware survey is one of the most comprehensive snapshots of the PC gaming landscape. The February 2026 results make one thing clear: Windows 11 hasn’t fully won over the gaming community. Despite Microsoft’s push to sunset Windows 10, gamers’ preference for performance and stability keeps the older OS alive and well.

Xbox Games Showcase 2026 Announced: Gears of War E-Day Direct Double Feature on June 7

Elwood — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:24:00 GMT

Xbox Games Showcase 2026 Xbox Games Showcase Xbox Showcase date

Xbox Games Showcase 2026 Announced: Gears of War E-Day Direct Double Feature on June 7

Elwood

• March 30, 2026

Xbox Games Showcase 2026 Is Official

Microsoft has officially announced one of the biggest gaming events of the year. Xbox Games Showcase 2026 will air on Sunday, June 7 at 10am PT / 1pm ET / 6pm BST. Immediately after, a dedicated Gears of War: E-Day Direct presentation will follow.

Following last year’s widely praised showcase, this year’s event is expected to deliver similar excitement. Xbox confirmed that the show will feature first gameplay reveals and major announcements from its first-party studios across the Xbox family, as well as third-party partners from around the globe — ranging from the biggest franchises to upcoming indie titles.

Gears of War: E-Day Direct

Right after the Showcase, The Coalition Studio will take center stage. The team behind the Gears franchise will offer a deep dive into the highly anticipated Gears of War: E-Day.

E-Day serves as a prequel to the Gears of War saga, telling the origin story of Emergence Day, the moment that changed everything. The Coalition will share new gameplay footage, detailed insights, and behind-the-scenes content during the presentation. The game is expected to launch later this year.

Xbox FanFest Returns

As part of Xbox’s 25th anniversary celebrations, Xbox FanFest is making a comeback. This year’s event will feature a look back at the last 25 years of Xbox alongside a forward-looking view of what’s next.

Fans in the US can enter for a chance to win free tickets at xbox.com/fanfest. The entry deadline is April 12, 2026.

Where to Watch

The event will be broadcast in over 40 languages, with support for American Sign Language (ASL), British Sign Language (BSL), and English Audio Descriptions. Tune in on:

Broadcast Times

Region	Date & Time
PDT	June 7, 10:00 AM
EDT	June 7, 1:00 PM
BST	June 7, 6:00 PM
CEST	June 7, 7:00 PM
JST	June 8, 2:00 AM
AEST	June 8, 3:00 AM

Following the double feature, expect a full week of coverage on Xbox Wire, the Official Xbox Podcast, and the Xbox YouTube channel with updates, extra details, and deep dives on many of the games shown during the event.

Sony Hikes PS5, PS5 Pro, and PlayStation Portal Prices Worldwide: New Prices Announced

Elwood — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 12:20:00 GMT

PS5 price hike PS5 Pro price increase PS5 new price 2026

Sony Hikes PS5, PS5 Pro, and PlayStation Portal Prices Worldwide: New Prices Announced

Elwood

• March 27, 2026

PlayStation Consoles Face Global Price Increase

Sony Interactive Entertainment has announced a global price increase for PS5, PS5 Pro, and the PlayStation Portal remote player. Citing continued pressures in the global economic landscape, the company stated that these adjustments are necessary to maintain the delivery of high-quality gaming experiences. The new pricing will take effect starting April 2, 2026.

In an official statement, Sony noted, “We know that price changes impact our community, and after careful evaluation, we found this was a necessary step to ensure we can continue delivering innovative, high-quality gaming experiences to players worldwide.”

New PS5 and PS5 Pro Pricing

The updated recommended retail prices for the major regions are as follows:

U.S. Prices

Model	New MSRP
PS5	$649.99
PS5 Digital Edition	$599.99
PS5 Pro	$899.99

U.K. Prices

Model	New MSRP
PS5	£569.99
PS5 Digital Edition	£519.99
PS5 Pro	£789.99

Europe Prices

Model	New MSRP
PS5	€649.99
PS5 Digital Edition	€599.99
PS5 Pro	€899.99

Japan Prices

Model	New MSRP
PS5	¥97,980
PS5 Digital Edition	¥89,980
PS5 Pro	¥137,980

PlayStation Portal New Pricing

The PlayStation Portal remote player will also see its price adjusted across all regions:

Region	New Price
U.S.	$249.99
U.K.	£219.99
Europe	€249.99
Japan	¥39,980

Analysis: A Significant Shift in Hardware Value

This marks the second major price adjustment for PlayStation 5 consoles in recent years. With the PS5 Pro now nearing the $900 mark, the value proposition of high-end consoles is being tested against the PC market. Analysts suggest that rising supply chain costs, global inflation, and currency fluctuations are the primary drivers behind Sony’s aggressive pricing strategy.

For gamers who haven’t yet upgraded, these changes make the “mid-generation” upgrade significantly more expensive. For other territories not listed above, Sony advises checking with local retailers or visiting direct.playstation.com where available.

Forza Horizon 6 PC System Requirements Announced: Can You Run It?

Elwood — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 18:35:00 GMT

Forza Horizon 6 Forza Horizon 6 system requirements Forza Horizon 6 PC specs

Forza Horizon 6 PC System Requirements Announced: Can You Run It?

Elwood

• March 25, 2026

Forza Horizon 6 PC System Requirements Revealed

Playground Games has officially announced the PC system requirements for Forza Horizon 6, which is set to launch on May 19, 2026. The next chapter of the Horizon festival takes us to Japan, and the developers have shared detailed hardware specifications for four distinct performance tiers: Minimum, Recommended, Extreme, and Extreme RT.

The PC version of Forza Horizon 6 is a technical powerhouse, featuring support for NVIDIA DLSS 4, AMD FSR 3+4, and Intel XeSS 2.1. Other key features include ray-traced reflections and global illumination, high uncapped framerates, ultrawide monitor support, and robust controller and steering wheel compatibility.

Additionally, Playground Games confirmed that the game will be playable on portable PCs such as Steam Deck and Xbox ROG Ally.

Official PC System Requirements Breakdown

The following hardware specifications have been confirmed for the PC version of Forza Horizon 6:

Minimum (1080p / Low Preset / 60 FPS)

Specification	Requirement
CPU	Intel Core i5-8400 / AMD Ryzen 5 1600
GPU	NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 / AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT / Intel Arc A380
System RAM	16 GB
Storage	SSD
Windows Version	Windows 10/11 (at least 22H2)

Recommended (1440p / High Preset / 60+ FPS)

Specification	Requirement
CPU	Intel Core i5-12400F / AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
GPU	NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti / AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT / Intel Arc A580
System RAM	16 GB
Storage	SSD
Windows Version	Windows 10/11 (at least 22H2)

Extreme (4K / Extreme Preset / 60+ FPS)

Specification	Requirement
CPU	Intel Core i7-12700K / AMD Ryzen 7 7700X
GPU	NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti / AMD Radeon RX 7900 XT
System RAM	24 GB
Storage	NVMe SSD
Windows Version	Windows 10/11 (at least 22H2)

Extreme RT (4K Upscaled / Ray Tracing / 60+ FPS)

Specification	Requirement
CPU	Intel Core i7-12700K / AMD Ryzen 7 7700X
GPU	NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti / AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT
System RAM	32 GB
Storage	NVMe SSD
Windows Version	Windows 10/11 (at least 22H2)

Key PC Features and Technologies

Beyond the hardware specs, Playground Games highlighted several key features that will enhance the PC experience:

NVIDIA DLSS 4 | AMD FSR 3+4 | Intel XeSS 2.1 support
Ray Traced reflections and Global Illumination
High uncapped framerates
Ultrawide monitor support
Robust steering wheel and controller support
Steam Deck and Xbox ROG Ally verified

Verdict

Forza Horizon 6 overall stays relatively accessible for the average PC gamer. With a GTX 1650 and i5-8400, you can still expect a solid 1080p/60 FPS experience at low settings. However, the true beauty of the Japanese landscape will unlock on higher-end hardware, with the RTX 5070 Ti and 32 GB of RAM being the gold standard for full 4K ray-traced visuals.

Forza Horizon 6 launches on May 19, 2026, for PC (Steam and Microsoft Store) and Xbox Series X|S.

Epic Games Crisis: 1000+ Employees Laid Off as Fortnite Engagement Drops

G-Man — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 17:53:00 GMT

epic games layoffs tim sweeney fortnite 2026

Epic Games Crisis: 1000+ Employees Laid Off as Fortnite Engagement Drops

G-Man

• March 24, 2026

Massive Downsizing at Epic Games: Over 1000 Employees Laid Off

Epic Games, a giant in the gaming industry, sent a shockwave through its workforce today with a note announcing a series of major cuts. According to the internal memo shared by CEO Tim Sweeney, over 1000 employees are being laid off.

Decline in Fortnite Engagement and Economic Struggles

Sweeney noted that the primary reason behind this difficult decision is the decline in Fortnite engagement that began in 2025. With spending significantly exceeding income, the CEO emphasized that major cuts were necessary to keep the company funded and financially stable. In addition to the layoffs, Epic is targeting over $500 million in cost savings across marketing, contracting, and closing open roles.

Industry-Wide and Company-Specific Challenges

Epic Games is facing a combination of industry-wide pressures—such as slower growth, weaker consumer spending, and underperforming next-gen console sales—alongside its own unique challenges. Sweeney highlighted several key areas:

Fortnite Magic: Difficulty in consistently delivering the “Fortnite magic” with every season.
Mobile Transition: The early stages of returning to mobile and optimizing the game for billions of smartphones.
Industry Vanguard: The “bullets” taken as the industry’s vanguard, a battle that is only in its early days of paying off.

No Relation to AI

Unlike many recent tech layoffs, Sweeney explicitly stated that these cuts are not related to artificial intelligence. He noted that the company still aims to have as many talented developers as possible to create great content and technology, provided it remains economically viable.

Roadmap: Unreal Engine 6 and Future Launches

The path forward for Epic Games is clear. While continuing to build fresh seasonal content and live events for Fortnite, the company is accelerating the evolution of its developer tools, transitioning from Unreal Engine 5 and UEFN to Unreal Engine 6. Huge launch plans for \“the next generation of Epic\” are set for the end of the year.

Support for Impacted Employees

Talented professionals affected by the layoffs will receive a severance package including at least four months of base pay, with more based on tenure. Epic is also extending healthcare coverage—for instance, 6 months of paid coverage in the U.S.—and accelerating stock option vesting through January 2027.

Epic Games has survived massive industry upheavals before, from the 2D to 3D move in the 90s to the shift to online gaming in 2012. Sweeney remains confident that the company will emerge from these \“extreme\” market conditions as a winner, building an open and vibrant future for entertainment alongside other developers.

Another Game Becomes History! Warface Servers are Shutting Down

Elwood — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 15:50:00 GMT

Warface Warface Clutch Warface Clutch shutting down

Another Game Becomes History! Warface Servers are Shutting Down

Elwood

• March 23, 2026

Initially developed by Crytek and later joining the MY.GAMES portfolio, the free-to-play MMOFPS Warface: Clutch is permanently shutting down its servers. Since its initial launch in 2013, Warface has been a highly popular title, particularly in Russia and Eastern Europe.

Shutdown Dates

MY.GAMES will carry out the shutdown process in two phases:

Platform	Shutdown Date
PC (Steam, Epic Games Store)	May 27, 2025
Consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch)	August 25, 2025

As of February 26, all in-game purchases and payments have been disabled. However, players can continue to use previously acquired content until the servers officially close.

Why is it Closing?

In a statement released by MY.GAMES, the decision was made following extensive internal evaluations. The company intends to reallocate its resources toward new projects and initiatives. The announcement also emphasized deep respect for the community and the game’s long-standing history.

What Should Players Expect?

Refund Process

Refund requests for recent purchases can be submitted through the support services of the platform where the purchase was made:

Steam: help.steampowered.com
Epic Games Store: epicgames.com/help
PlayStation: playstation.com/support
Xbox: support.xbox.com
Nintendo Switch: nintendo.com/support

In-Game Items and Currency

All in-game currency, items, and content will remain available and usable until the servers are shut down. After the closure, access to any in-game content will no longer be possible. Transferring items or progress to another MY.GAMES project is not supported.

Farewell Events

To thank the players during the sunset period, MY.GAMES has announced that it will host special in-game gifts and activities. Additionally, players will receive a promo code for War Robots: Frontiers, another MY.GAMES title, which includes special in-game rewards.

What Happens After the Shutdown?

The game will be removed from Steam, Epic Games Store, and console marketplaces.
While it may remain in the libraries of those who previously installed it, the game will not be playable as there is no offline mode.
The official website will also be taken down.
The Discord server will remain accessible for viewing but will no longer be actively updated.
There are no plans to relaunch the game or restore the servers in the future.

A Brief History

Warface was first released in 2013 by Crytek, developed on the CryEngine. Over the years, it was serviced under various publishers in different regions. It was eventually rebranded as Warface: Clutch and continued its journey under MY.GAMES. The game reached a vast audience through its wide variety of PvP and PvE modes.

The closure of Warface: Clutch adds another name to the growing list of live service game shutdowns in recent times. Players are encouraged to contact platform support teams for refunds and personal data deletion requests.

Everything Announced at Minecraft Live March 2026: Dungeons II, Chaos Cubed & Theme Park

Elwood — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 20:30:00 GMT

Minecraft Live 2026 Minecraft Live Minecraft Dungeons II

Everything Announced at Minecraft Live March 2026: Dungeons II, Chaos Cubed & Theme Park

Elwood

• March 21, 2026

Mojang delivered a packed presentation at Minecraft Live March 2026. A brand-new game, a major update, real-world experiences, and even a theme park were all revealed. Here’s everything that stood out.

Minecraft Dungeons II Announced

The biggest surprise of the event was undoubtedly Minecraft Dungeons II. Mojang officially announced the sequel to the original Minecraft Dungeons, confirming it will launch later in 2026.

Minecraft Dungeons II will offer an all-new action RPG adventure set in the Minecraft universe. Players will face high-stakes encounters and thrilling challenges across never-before-seen locations. There will, of course, be plenty of loot — grab it all for yourself or share it with up to three friends in co-op mode.

The game is coming to Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Steam, Xbox on PC, and Game Pass.

For full details on Minecraft Dungeons II, check out our dedicated article.

Chaos Cubed: A Major Update Is Coming

Minecraft’s upcoming major update, Chaos Cubed, was shown for the first time at the event. The update introduces a brand-new biome, new blocks, and a truly unique mob.

Sulfur Caves

The new sulfur caves may look warm and inviting, but they’re far from safe. Get too close to the pools and you’ll experience a strange dizzying effect. Two new block sets are also being introduced: cinnabar and sulfur.

Sulfur Cube: A Block-Absorbing Mob

The update’s most striking addition is the sulfur cube, a new mob that marks a first in Minecraft history: it can absorb blocks, and its attributes change depending on what it consumes.

Feed it wood and it starts behaving like a bouncy ball
Let it consume ice and it slides around like an oversized hockey puck
With the ability to absorb various block types, the experimentation potential is limitless

This mob opens up huge possibilities for both creative builds and chaotic mini-games.

Tiny Takeover: Baby Mobs Get a Makeover

With the Tiny Takeover update, the appearance of nearly every baby mob in Minecraft is changing. Previously just smaller versions of their adult counterparts, baby mobs will now have their own distinct designs — all optimized for one thing: maximum cuteness.

Parties Feature Coming This Summer

The Parties feature is being added to Minecraft Bedrock Edition this summer. With just a few button presses, you’ll be able to form a group with your friends and seamlessly jump between vanilla worlds, Realms, and other content.

Real-World Experiences

Minecraft Experience

Minecraft’s real-world experience, Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue, continues its global tour. It will soon arrive in Herning, Singapore, Mexico City, and Chicago.

An entirely new experience was also announced: Minecraft Experience: Moonlight Trail. This outdoor nighttime adventure takes place in a real forest and will first open in Buenos Aires.

Minecraft World: A Theme Park in London

One of the event’s most exciting reveals was Minecraft World. Mojang is partnering with Merlin Entertainments to create a Minecraft-themed land at Chessington World of Adventures in London. Planned to open in 2027, Minecraft World will feature:

The first-ever Minecraft roller coaster
The world’s largest Minecraft shop
Minecraft-themed food
Opportunities to meet the mobs

Summary

Announcement	Details
Minecraft Dungeons II	New action RPG, launching in 2026
Chaos Cubed	Sulfur caves, sulfur cube mob, new blocks
Tiny Takeover	All baby mob models redesigned
Parties	Group forming on Bedrock, coming this summer
Minecraft Experience	New cities and a new forest experience
Minecraft World	Theme park in London, opening 2027

Minecraft Dungeons II Announced: Coming Fall 2026, Here is the First Trailer

Elwood — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 17:45:00 GMT

Minecraft Dungeons II Minecraft Dungeons 2 Minecraft

Minecraft Dungeons II Announced: Coming Fall 2026, Here is the First Trailer

Elwood

• March 21, 2026

Mojang has officially announced the sequel to its action RPG series set in the Minecraft universe, Minecraft Dungeons. Minecraft Dungeons II, will meet players in the fall of 2026.

A New Threat Approaches

Peace did not come to the world after the adventures of the first game. A new danger is growing in power and is ready to descend upon the land to unleash mayhem. Minecraft Dungeons II invites players to a brand-new action RPG adventure featuring high-stakes encounters, thrilling challenges, and never-before-seen locations. Will you and your allies prevail against the forces of evil and save the day once more?

System Requirements

The system requirements shared on the game’s Steam page are as follows:

	Minimum	Recommended
OS	Windows 10 64-bit (1703+)	Windows 10 64-bit (1703+)
Processor	Intel Core i3-8100 / AMD Ryzen 3 2200G	Intel Core i5-8400 / AMD Ryzen 5 2600
RAM	8 GB	16 GB
Graphics	GTX 1050 / RX 560 (2 GB VRAM)	GTX 1060 / RX 580 (6 GB VRAM)
DirectX	Version 11	Version 11

Wishlist on Steam

Minecraft Dungeons II is currently available to be added to your wishlist on Steam. Don’t forget to wishlist today to stay up to date on what’s coming next to the game.

Netflix's Assassin's Creed Series: Filming Starts in Rome, Set in 64 AD

Elwood — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 09:50:00 GMT

Assassin's Creed Netflix series Assassin's Creed live-action Assassin's Creed release date

Netflix's Assassin's Creed Series: Filming Starts in Rome, Set in 64 AD

Elwood

• March 21, 2026

Netflix’s Assassin’s Creed Series: Production Starts in Rome

The long-awaited live-action Assassin’s Creed series has officially entered production. Developed by Netflix and Ubisoft, the series is filming at the iconic Cinecittà Studios in Rome, Italy. The story is confirmed to be set in 64 AD, during the heart of the Roman Empire.

Plot Details

With over 230 million units sold, the Assassin’s Creed franchise set a high standard for historical storytelling. The new series will tell an original story while staying true to the core themes of the series.

The series centers on the secret war between two shadowy factions — one set on determining mankind’s future through control, while the other fights to preserve free will. While it captures the classic Templars vs. Assassins conflict, fans of the lore will note that in 64 AD, neither the Brotherhood nor the Order existed in the forms we know today. Similar to Assassin’s Creed Origins and subsequent games, the series will focus on the predecessors of these legendary groups. Characters will battle across pivotal historical events to shape the destiny of humanity.

Cast

The cast for the series continues to expand with an impressive ensemble.

Main Cast

Actor	Notable Works
Lola Petticrew	Say Nothing, Tuesday
Toby Wallace	Euphoria Season 3, The Society
Zachary Hart	Slow Horses, Black Doves Season 2
Laura Marcus	Bad Education, Death by Lightning
Tanzyn Crawford	A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Tiny Beautiful Things
Nabhaan Rizwan	In Camera, KAOS, Juice
Claes Bang	The Square, Bad Sisters

Recurring Roles

Actor	Notable Works
Noomi Rapace	Lamb, Prometheus
Ramzy Bedia	Of Money and Blood, Haunted Minds
Sean Harris	Mission: Impossible — Fallout, The Stranger
Corrado Invernizzi	Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Ford v. Ferrari
Sandra Guldberg-Kampp	Foundation, The Rain
Youssef Kerkour	A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
Mirren Mack	Hedda, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
Louis McCartney	Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Character specifics remain under oath as production continues.

Creative Team

Emmy nominees Roberto Patino (DMZ, Westworld, Sons of Anarchy) and David Wiener (Halo, Homecoming, The Killing) serve as creators and showrunners.

We’ve been fans of Assassin’s Creed since its release in 2007. This is a show about the value of human connection, across cultures, across time. And it’s about what we stand to lose as a species, when those connections break.

The executive producing team includes Ubisoft’s Gerard Guillemot, Margaret Boykin, Austin Dill, and Genevieve Jones, alongside Matt O’Toole.

Netflix’s Growing Gaming Portfolio

Assassin’s Creed joins Netflix’s expanding lineup of gaming adaptations, following hits like Castlevania, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, and the record-breaking Arcane. The platform is also developing Splinter Cell: Deathwatch, continuing its partnership with Ubisoft.

Release Date

While no official release date has been announced, production timelines suggest that the Brotherhood will emerge from the shadows in late 2026 or early 2027.

Crimson Desert Review Scores Released: Does It Live Up to the Hype?

Skyline — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 01:08:12 GMT

Crimson Desert Crimson Desert review Crimson Desert scores

Crimson Desert Review Scores Released: Does It Live Up to the Hype?

Skyline

• March 19, 2026

Crimson Desert Review Scores Released: Does It Live Up to the Hype?

The wait is finally over for Crimson Desert, the highly anticipated action RPG from Pearl Abyss that has been a highlight of gaming showcases for years. The first review scores for the game have been released, and they have sparked quite a debate within the gaming community.

As of now, the global averages stand at:

MetaCritic: 79
OpenCritic: 84

The scores suggest that while some outlets consider the game a masterpiece, others have taken a more cautious approach due to technical issues or specific gameplay choices. Notably, outlets like The Outerhaven Productions and Gamers Heroes have awarded the game a perfect score.

When does Crimson Desert release? The release is just around the corner. Crimson Desert will officially launch roughly 23 hours from now, on March 20 at 01:00 (TR time).

Detailed Review Scores

Here is a breakdown of the scores from various gaming outlets:

The Outerhaven Productions: 5 / 5
Gamers Heroes: 100 / 100
Gameliner: 5 / 5
Digitec Magazine: 5 / 5
DualShockers: 9.5 / 10
The Nerd Stash: 9.5 / 10
Generación Xbox: 94 / 100
The GameSlayer: 9 / 10
Loot Level Chill: 9 / 10
Game8: 88 / 100
DayOne: 8.5 / 10
TheGamer: 4 / 5
Digital Spy: 4 / 5
GameMAG: 8 / 10
Gameblog: 8 / 10
PPE.pl: 6.5 / 10
VG247: 3 / 5

It appears that Crimson Desert has successfully impressed many critics with its visual fidelity and vast open world. However, a Metacritic score of 79 indicates that the game may have some rough edges and might require patience in certain areas. How Pearl Abyss has transitioned their “Black Desert” expertise into a single-player focused structure will soon be experienced by players firsthand.

What do you think of these scores? Does Crimson Desert still look like a day-one purchase for you? Let us know in the comments!

Xbox Game Pass March 2026 Wave 2: Resident Evil 7, Disco Elysium and More!

G-Man — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:15:00 GMT

Xbox Game Pass Resident Evil 7 Disco Elysium

Xbox Game Pass March 2026 Wave 2: Resident Evil 7, Disco Elysium and More!

G-Man

• March 17, 2026

The Xbox Game Pass library continues to impress in March 2026. Following a strong start to the month, Microsoft has revealed the second wave of titles joining the service. This selection offers something for everyone, ranging from horror classics to award-winning RPGs.

Coming Soon to Xbox Game Pass

The schedule for late March and early April is packed with highly anticipated releases:

Game	Date	Platform	Subscription Tier
South of Midnight	March 18	Cloud, Console, PC	Ultimate, Premium, PC
The Alters	March 18	Cloud, Console, PC	Ultimate, Premium, PC
Disco Elysium – The Final Cut	March 19	Cloud, Console, PC	Ultimate, Premium, PC
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth	March 24	Cloud, Console, PC	Ultimate, Premium, PC
Absolum	March 25	Cloud, Console, PC	Ultimate, Premium, PC
Nova Roma (Game Preview)	March 26	PC	Ultimate, PC
The Long Dark	March 30	Cloud, Console, PC	Ultimate, Premium, PC
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard	March 31	Cloud, Console, PC	Ultimate, Premium, PC
Barbie Horse Trails	April 2	Cloud, Console, PC	Ultimate, Premium, PC
Clair Obscur Expedition 33	April 2	Cloud, Console, PC	Ultimate, Premium, PC
Final Fantasy IV	April 7	Cloud, Console, PC	Ultimate, Premium, PC

Highlights: Resident Evil and Disco Elysium

The two standout additions this month are undoubtedly Resident Evil 7: Biohazard and Disco Elysium. Resident Evil 7 returned the franchise to its survival horror roots, offering a terrifying first-person experience that is a must-play for genre fans. Meanwhile, Disco Elysium – The Final Cut, widely regarded as one of the best RPGs ever made, brings its unique skill system and deep narrative to the library.

Additionally, Compulsion Games’ highly anticipated action-adventure South of Midnight and the sci-fi survival title The Alters will be available on day one for Game Pass Premium subscribers.

Updates and In Case You Missed It

Valorant: The new Agent Miks arrives on March 18. Game Pass members get instant access to all agents, including Miks.
Sea of Thieves: Season 19: Starting March 19, the new season introduces improved Hourglass PvP battles and large-scale multi-ship faction clashes.
Minishoot’ Adventures: Don’t miss out on this charming twin-stick shooter adventure, which has been available since March 3.

NVIDIA DLSS 5 Announced! Honestly, We Wish It Wasn't...

G-Man — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 22:15:00 GMT

NVIDIA DLSS 5 GTC 2026

NVIDIA DLSS 5 Announced! Honestly, We Wish It Wasn't...

G-Man

• March 16, 2026

NVIDIA has ushered in a new era of computer graphics by unveiling NVIDIA DLSS 5 at the GTC 2026 keynote. Described as the most significant breakthrough since the debut of real-time ray tracing in 2018, DLSS 5 aims to redefine how pixels are generated using advanced artificial intelligence.

NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang characterized this new technology as the “GPT moment for graphics.” Beyond mere performance gains, DLSS 5 leverages a real-time neural rendering model to infuse pixels with photorealistic lighting and materials based on the game’s underlying 3D content.

Cinematic Quality in Real-Time

At its core, DLSS 5 takes a game’s color and motion vectors as input and uses an AI model to populate the scene with deterministic neural pixels. This technology promises to bridge the gap between rendering and reality, bringing Hollywood-grade visual effects—which previously took hours to render—to interactive 4K gameplay in milliseconds.

According to NVIDIA, DLSS 5 understands complex scene semantics like skin, hair, fabric, and translucent materials. It can generate visually precise images that handle subsurface scattering and delicate sheen while maintaining the original scene’s structure.

“AI Slop” Controversy

Despite the impressive tech specs, the announcement has met with a wave of skepticism from the gaming community. Critics are already labeling the technology an “AI Slop Generator,” drawing parallels to the uncanny-looking AI filters frequently seen on social media.

NVIDIA seems to have inadvertently provided a professional tool for the very accounts that clutter feeds with “fixed” game visuals. For many players, the intervention of AI in rendering human faces feels unnatural and “plasticky.”

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Supported Games

Despite the “slop” debate, industry giants are moving fast to integrate DLSS 5. Major publishers like Bethesda, Capcom, and Ubisoft have already confirmed support. Key titles include:

Resident Evil™ Requiem
Starfield
Hogwarts Legacy
Assassin’s Creed Shadows
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered
Delta Force

Todd Howard mentioned that seeing DLSS 5 running in Starfield was “amazing,” while Capcom’s Jun Takeuchi noted that it pushes the atmospheric impact of Resident Evil Requiem to new heights.

Release Date

NVIDIA DLSS 5 is slated to arrive this Fall. Honestly, we wish it wouldn’t.

First Details on the New Xbox Console Leaked from GDC! Won't Launch Before 2027

Elwood — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Xbox Project Helix GDC 2026 next-gen Xbox

First Details on the New Xbox Console Leaked from GDC! Won't Launch Before 2027

Elwood

• March 11, 2026

Significant details have leaked from a closed-door Xbox developer session at GDC 2026 (Game Developers Conference). The session, presented by Microsoft’s “VP of Next Generation” Jason Ronald, reportedly shared the most concrete information about Project Helix to date. The details were reported by The Verge’s Sean Hollister and various industry sources.

As we previously reported, new Xbox CEO Asha Shar revealed the console’s codename as “Project Helix” last week. At GDC, things got significantly more technical.

Custom AMD SoC and an “Order of Magnitude” Ray Tracing Leap

According to leaked information, Project Helix will be powered by a custom-designed AMD SoC (System on Chip). Ronald’s presentation reportedly promised “an order of magnitude increase” in ray tracing performance, with support for full path tracing included.

Additionally, Project Helix is being co-designed with the next generation of DirectX. A new version of AMD’s FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution) upscaling technology is also coming — this time built on machine learning and featuring frame generation, which creates artificial frames between existing ones to improve perceived smoothness.

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Alpha Hardware Heading to Developers in 2027

One of the most important details from the session is the timeline: Microsoft will begin sending alpha versions of Project Helix to developers in 2027. This suggests the console’s final release date likely points to 2028 or later. However, early developer access to hardware could mean a much larger game library ready at launch.

Xbox Mode Coming to Windows 11 in April

In a move that goes beyond console hardware, Microsoft announced that Xbox Mode will come to all Windows 11 devices in “select markets” starting in April — including laptops, desktops, and tablets. This feature is essentially the same full-screen Xbox interface used on the ROG Xbox Ally handheld. Perhaps a slightly improved version.

Technically, Windows Insider and Xbox Insider members have been able to test this experience since November 2025, but Microsoft is now rolling it out to a much broader audience and officially renaming it “Xbox Mode.” The goal: a console-like experience right on your PC.

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Xbox and Windows Are Merging: “Build Once, Play Everywhere”

Another highlight from Ronald’s presentation was Microsoft’s push for developers to build once for both Windows and Xbox, rather than compiling separately for each platform. A unified development environment is being created where, according to Ronald, “the vast majority of code that your game runs on Xbox is the exact same code that runs on other platforms.”

The Xbox Play Anywhere program sits at the center of this strategy. The buy-once, play-anywhere catalog now includes over 1,500 titles. Microsoft’s data shows that titles in this program attract more players and generate more revenue than their single-platform counterparts.

Ronald also noted that gamers play an average of 3-5 games simultaneously and should be able to pick up where they left off regardless of whether they’re on console, PC, or cloud.

Game Preservation: Classic Xbox Titles Are Coming Back

An emotional topic also came up at GDC: game preservation. Ronald said, “As one of the largest publishers in the industry, we feel a deep responsibility to preserve games from the past.”

As part of Xbox’s 25th anniversary celebrations, Microsoft plans to make some of history’s most iconic games “playable in new ways.” According to The Verge, Microsoft’s press release states: “As part of our 25th anniversary later this year, we’ll be rolling out new ways to play some of the most iconic games from our past.” Ronald didn’t directly confirm whether classic Xbox games would also come to PC, but said more details would follow when the 25th anniversary plans are announced.

He also dropped a hint: “some of our most iconic first-party franchises are returning this year.”

Advanced Shader Delivery and Technical Updates

Another developer-facing announcement was the Advanced Shader Delivery system. This precompiles shaders and lets you download them alongside a game, so you no longer have to sit through lengthy shader compilation when first launching a title. The system is now open to all developers on the Xbox Store.

Microsoft also shared updates on DirectX — moving towards neural rendering — along with DirectStorage improvements for faster asset loading and updates to graphics debugging tools.

Console Remains at the Heart of Xbox

Despite all the PC and multi-platform emphasis, Microsoft reiterated that the console will remain at the “heart” of Xbox. Asha Shar’s first memo upon taking charge promised a “renewed commitment to Xbox, starting with console.” The message that heavy investment is going into Project Helix is clear.

But will all these efforts save Xbox? Only time will tell.

Helldivers 2 Entrenched Division Warbond: WWI-Inspired Chaos Hits March 17!

G-Man — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:45:00 GMT

helldivers 2 helldivers 2 news entrenched division warbond

Helldivers 2 Entrenched Division Warbond: WWI-Inspired Chaos Hits March 17!

G-Man

• March 10, 2026

Arrowhead Game Studios has announced the next Premium Warbond for Helldivers 2, titled “Entrenched Division.” This upcoming content drop brings a gritty, World War I-inspired aesthetic to the galactic front, blending mud-soaked trench warfare with futuristic firepower. The Warbond is set to deploy on March 17, 2026.

New Armor Sets: Heroes of the Front

The “Entrenched Division” features armor designs that bridge the gap between classic military history and advanced Super Earth technology.

COMMANDANT – Light Armor

Exuding true leadership, this set features a long cape, an officer’s cap, and a military-style coat. It’s the perfect choice for Helldivers who lead from the front with authority.

CPG-48 SAPPER – Medium Armor

Designed with a broad-brimmed helmet reminiscent of WWI sappers and miners, this armor is optimized for durability in the most grueling combat zones.

Devastating New Weaponry

Prepare to bolster your arsenal with heavy-duty gear designed for close-quarters trench sweeps:

P-69 VETO: A sleek secondary weapon inspired by classic handgun designs. Elegant, yet highly effective.
SMG/FLAM-34 STOKER: A hybrid SMG that fires standard rounds and features an under-barrel flamethrower for intense crowd control.
G-48 GIGA GRENADE: A massive explosive roughly the size of a sledgehammer. When thrown, it creates a blinding and devastating blast.
R/FLAM-80 CREMATOR: A heavy-duty support weapon. This multi-barrel flamethrower requires a dual-tank backpack and unleashes a literal firestorm on the battlefield.

Strategic Reinforcements: Gas Mortars and Camouflage

Tactical options are expanding with the “A/GM-17 GAS MORTAR SENTRY.” This new turret deployable blankets target areas in a thick, toxic green gas cloud—perfect for slowing down robotic swarms and neutralizing biological threats.

Additionally, “New Patterns” are arriving for Hellpods, Mechs, and extraction shuttles, featuring forest green and earth-tone camouflage liveries.

The Ultimate Handshake

One of the most cinematic additions showcased is the “CO-EMOTE: DIPLOMATIC HANDSHAKE.” This hard-hitting greeting between two soldiers is the ultimate way to celebrate a successful mission while the world burns behind you.

The “Entrenched Division” Premium Warbond launches on March 17. Get ready to hold the line and bring managed democracy to the trenches of the galaxy!

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney Slams Mandatory Age Verification Laws

G-Man — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 11:21:02 GMT

Tim Sweeney Epic Games Epic Games CEO

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney Slams Mandatory Age Verification Laws

G-Man

• March 7, 2026

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has issued a stark warning against new legal regulations spreading worldwide that demand ID or biometric data from users to access social media and digital services.

Sweeney argued that these laws, which he claims are driven by Meta lobbyists, create a massive privacy violation and will turn the digital world into a dangerous surveillance hub.

Here are the key takeaways from Sweeney’s statements:

“Data Will Not Be Safe”

Sweeney stated that forcing citizens to upload personal identification documents to tens of thousands of different companies just to access platforms fundamentally about “free speech” is likely unconstitutional. He countered advocates’ claims that “data won’t be stored or leaked” by reminding them of the following realities:

Developer Errors: Security mistakes made by amateur developers who fail to meet expected safety standards.
Customer Support Risks: When automated systems fail and users email their documents to support agents, those files are stored on additional servers (citing the past example of hacked Discord contractor servers).
Dodgy Corporations: Shady companies whose lawyers find clever legal loopholes to repurpose or broker user data for a profit.
Legal Obligations: The necessity of retaining sensitive documents on systems for long periods due to lawsuits and regulatory investigations.

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The Alternative Solution: Device-Level Parental Controls

Stating that there is a much more logical solution instead of this vast power grab by governments and giant corporations, the Epic Games CEO emphasized that the answer lies in parental controls. He reminded the public that tech giants like Apple, Google, Microsoft, Sony, Nintendo, and Epic Games already offer parents the ability to manage their children’s device accounts and make decisions about what features they can access.

Apple’s Loss of Trust and the “Boy Who Cried Wolf” Situation

One of the most striking parts of the statement was the section containing both praise and criticism for Apple. Sweeney noted that the best and most good-faith parental control solution in this area actually belongs to Apple, but politicians are ignoring it.

He attributed this to a tragedy of their own making: Apple has lost public trust by constantly “crying wolf” with pretextual safety and security claims designed solely to protect their own App Store monopoly.

What Does the Future Hold?

According to Sweeney, the campaign by Meta lobbyists will likely succeed in many countries, resulting in the digital world becoming a much more corporatized, government-controlled, and surveilled place.

Xbox's New CEO Finally Speaks: What Is 'Project Helix' and Will It Support Steam?

G-Man — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:32:00 GMT

Project Helix new Xbox console Xbox next gen

Xbox's New CEO Finally Speaks: What Is 'Project Helix' and Will It Support Steam?

G-Man

• March 5, 2026

Xbox’s new CEO Asha Shar made waves early in the morning with a post that surprised both the Xbox community and the wider gaming industry. Following a meeting with Team Xbox, Shar revealed the codename for the next-generation Xbox console: Project Helix.

What Is Project Helix?

According to Shar, Project Helix will lead in performance and be capable of playing both Xbox games and PC games. That phrasing immediately caught everyone’s attention — the emphasis on “PC games” brings a long-debated question back to the surface: Steam support.

While no official confirmation has been made, packaging a console around the ability to run PC games strongly implies access to a broader PC library, potentially including Steam. Is this just speculation? Perhaps — but it’s the kind of wording Microsoft doesn’t use by accident.

More Details Coming at GDC 2026

Asha Shar confirmed that she will share more about Project Helix with partners and studios at GDC 2026, calling it her “first GDC.”

The Game Developers Conference (GDC) is the world’s largest event for game developers, held annually in San Francisco. Running continuously since 1988, GDC serves as the industry’s premier platform for technical sessions, product reveals, and business networking. GDC 2026 is scheduled for March 17–21, meaning we could get significant new details very soon.

Is PlayStation Rethinking Its PC Strategy?

The timing of Project Helix’s announcement coincides with an interesting shift on Sony’s end. PlayStation has spent the last several years gradually bringing its exclusives to PC — titles like God of War, Spider-Man, and Horizon have all made the jump. But with Xbox now positioning its next console as a PC-native device with potential Steam integration, the calculus changes.

If Microsoft delivers a console that truly bridges the gap between Xbox and PC gaming, the appeal of PlayStation’s gradual PC releases diminishes — for Sony’s strategy, not for players. There are growing signals that PlayStation may be reconsidering how aggressively it pursues the PC market, potentially pulling back toward console exclusivity to re-establish differentiation.

What the Industry Is Saying

Xbox has had a turbulent few years — from first-party game shortages to Game Pass restructuring to hardware uncertainty. Project Helix, and the tone of Shar’s announcement, signals a deliberate effort to rebuild confidence with both developers and consumers.

Whether Project Helix will live up to the hype remains to be seen. But for the first time in a while, the conversation around Xbox feels genuinely exciting. We’ll be watching GDC 2026 closely.

Turkey Prepares to Ban Major Gaming Platforms Like Steam

G-Man — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 21:43:01 GMT

Turkey Steam ban Steam ban Turkey 2026 Roblox ban

Turkey Prepares to Ban Major Gaming Platforms Like Steam

G-Man

• March 4, 2026

Turkey’s Deepening Crackdown on Digital Gaming Platforms

Turkey is gearing up for a significant shift in its digital landscape, one that could severely impact how gamers in the country access popular titles. A new legislative proposal, often referred to as the “Cyber Censorship Law,” alongside the “Digital Child Action Plan,” aims to impose strict regulations on digital game distributors. These platforms, including Steam, Epic Games Store, PlayStation Store, and Xbox, are now directly in the government’s crosshairs.

The Imminent Threat to Steam and Console Stores

The core of the issue lies in proposed amendments to Law No. 5651, historically used for internet censorship in Turkey. For the first time, “digital game providers and distributors” are being legally categorized alongside social media networks. This means major global platforms will face the same stringent requirements.

Under the new proposal currently in the Turkish Parliament, these platforms will have a mere 6-month transition period to comply with a rigorous set of rules:

Strict Age Restrictions: Platforms must refuse service to children under 15 years old.
Mandatory Age Ratings: They must ensure all games sold in Turkey have recognized age ratings. Games without ratings cannot be offered on the Turkish market.
Local Representation: Companies with over 100,000 daily accesses must appoint an official local representative in Turkey.
Content Removal: Platforms must be ready to quickly remove content or hand over user data when demanded by the state.

If these gaming giants fail to orchestrate these massive changes—which would involve implementing complex biometric or national ID verification systems for millions of users—they could face severe bandwidth throttling of up to 90%, essentially rendering the services unusable and acting as a de facto ban.

A History of Bans: From Minecraft to Roblox

This aggressive legislative push doesn’t come entirely out of nowhere; it follows a pattern of digital restrictions aimed at protecting minors. In 2015, Turkey’s Family and Social Policies Ministry launched an investigation into Minecraft, concluding that while the game encouraged creativity, it was “based on violence” because players had to kill in-game mobs. Although a nationwide ban was heavily discussed, it was ultimately avoided at the time.

However, a harder line was taken recently. On August 7, 2024, access to Roblox was completely blocked across Turkey. Initiated by the Adana 6th Criminal Court of Peace following a prosecutor’s investigation, the ban cited concerns that the platform contained content leading to child abuse and exploitation. Prior to this ban, Roblox had amassed over 41 million downloads in Turkey. While Roblox has stated it is working with Turkish authorities to establish a local office and resolve the issue, the platform remains inaccessible.

Protection or Digital Isolation?

The Turkish government justifies these actions using alarming statistics, noting that internet usage among children sky-rocketed to 91.3% by 2024, with 74% of them playing digital games. The goal, officials say, is to shield children from violent content, cyberbullying, and potential grooming.

Critics, however, argue that this approach uses child protection as a guise for broader digital isolation and censorship. Instead of fostering digital literacy and educating parents on utilizing existing parental controls, the focus is on outright blockages and forcing international companies into precarious compliance scenarios that threaten user privacy.

With only a short window before these laws potentially take effect, the Turkish gaming community is bracing for what could be the end of unrestricted access to the world’s largest gaming storefronts. Whether platforms like Steam and Epic Games will adapt to these heavy demands or choose to exit the Turkish market entirely remains to be seen.

The Legend Returns: Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced Officially Announced!

G-Man — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:25:00 GMT

assassin's creed black flag resynced ac black flag remake assassin's creed black flag resynced release date

The Legend Returns: Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced Officially Announced!

G-Man

• March 4, 2026

The gaming world’s most beloved pirate adventure is making a comeback! Assassin’s Creed: Black Flag Resynced, which was rumored to be released last January but then went silent and was thought to be delayed, has finally been officially announced by Ubisoft.

The comprehensive Assassin’s Creed roadmap shared by Ubisoft for 2026 and beyond includes many developments that will thrill fans of the series. With the participation of Content Director Jean Guesdon, who has returned to the franchise, critical information was shared regarding both the course of current games and brand new projects on the horizon.

The Black Flag Flies Again: Black Flag Resynced

Ubisoft has finally put an end to the Black Flag Remake (Resynced) rumors that have been circulating for a long time. Following the “launching in January” rumors, a slight delay period, and curiosity about its fate, the development team shared a remarkable message with a nod to the pirate theme: “Speculation around Assassin’s Creed is not new, but it’s worth repeating: ‘Nothing is true. Everything is permitted.’ Well, except in this case, some whispers have a little more wind in their sails. Keep your spyglass on the horizon. 🦜”

This humorous and clear message confirmed that the Resynced version, where the legendary game of the series, Black Flag, will meet modern hardware, is on its way. The approaching days when we will set sail again with Edward Kenway in the Caribbean seas will undoubtedly delight the veterans of the franchise.

A Dark and Unique Experience: Codename HEXE

One of the most intriguing future projects is undoubtedly Codename HEXE. Developed with great care by the veteran team at Ubisoft Montreal, the game promises players a darker, narrative-driven, and unique Assassin’s Creed experience. Set during a pivotal moment in history (likely the European witch hunts era), HEXE seems poised to offer a different flavor than the action-adventure formula we’re accustomed to in the series. The fact that Jean Guesdon has also taken on the role of Creative Director for this project holds great promise for the game’s vision.

Next-Generation Multiplayer Experience: Codename INVICTUS

Codename INVICTUS, which will represent the multiplayer (PvP) wing of the series, is being prepared under the roof of Ubisoft Montreal by a dedicated team of veteran For Honor developers. Progressing steadily with a “test and learn” approach, the project will offer a completely new multiplayer vision, contrary to rumors. The development team aims to shape this new experience together with the players by involving the community earlier in the process. Furthermore, signals were given that the highly popular co-op mode from the past will return to the series.

Other Important Headlines from the Franchise

Other key details in this massive roadmap shared by Ubisoft are as follows:

AC Shadows Support Winding Down: Assassin’s Creed Shadows, which launched last year, is getting ready to celebrate its first anniversary. A special broadcast on March 20th will announce the game’s final major updates and the winners of the Parkour Challenge. From this point on, the game will move into its final support phase with smaller updates.
Developments on the Mobile Front: Work continues on multiple projects at different stages of development, including Assassin’s Creed Jade.
Netflix Series on the Way: There is movement regarding the long-in-development Assassin’s Creed live-action series. Following leaks about the cast, official announcements and first images are expected very soon.

The Awaited 60 FPS Patch for AC Unity Has Arrived!

Not forgetting its older games, Ubisoft presented a wonderful surprise to nostalgia lovers. Assassin’s Creed Unity, which struggled with technical issues upon release but was fixed over the years and is considered by many to have the best parkour mechanics in the series, is receiving a free 60 FPS patch for current-generation consoles! Starting tomorrow, Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 owners will finally be able to experience 18th-century Paris and Arno’s fluid movements at a smooth 60 frames per second.

In addition, multiple Assassin’s Creed games will be temporarily available for free as part of the Xbox Free Play Days running from April 2nd to 6th. This is the perfect time to take advantage of this opportunity and play Unity in 60 FPS!

Personally, Black Flag was one of my two absolute favorite games in the series. I have been eagerly awaiting the Remake version for a long time to play the game again. I hope it releases soon and stays true to the original.

Source: Ubisoft

Another Live Service Game Bites the Dust: Highguard Shutting Down After Just 45 Days!

Elwood — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 22:30:00 GMT

highguard highguard shutting down highguard shutdown

Another Live Service Game Bites the Dust: Highguard Shutting Down After Just 45 Days!

Elwood

• March 3, 2026

Another Concord-Level Disaster: Highguard Dead in 45 Days

Revealed as the closing surprise of The Game Awards 2025, personally championed by Geoff Keighley, Highguard couldn’t even survive two months. Developer Wildlight Entertainment has announced that the game will be permanently shut down on March 12, 2026.

The story is painfully familiar: big budget, ambitious reveal, rapid collapse. Another name joins the live service graveyard.

From The Game Awards to Silence

Highguard was unveiled in December 2025 during The Game Awards’ most prestigious “one more thing” slot. Wildlight Entertainment, founded by veterans behind titles like Apex Legends and Titanfall, was aiming to make a major splash with the announcement. However, the trailer failed to effectively communicate the game’s mechanics, and audience reception was mixed at best.

Studio co-founder Chad Grenier later admitted the reveal was “maybe a little risky.” The original plan was to do a surprise launch similar to Apex Legends, but Keighley’s personal enthusiasm for the game led to the decision to showcase it at The Game Awards.

100K Players Showed Up, Then Vanished

Highguard launched as a free-to-play title on January 26, 2026 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. In its opening hours, it reached nearly 100,000 concurrent players on Steam — a strong start by any measure. But the momentum didn’t last. Within the first week, the game lost over 90% of its player base and never recovered.

While more than 2 million players tried the game in total, a sustainable community never formed. Wildlight’s statement was blunt:

Despite the passion and hard work of our team, we have not been able to build a sustainable player base to support the game long term.

I personally downloaded the game to give it a try, but I never even felt motivated enough to actually launch it.

Tencent Pulled Funding, Mass Layoffs Followed

Behind the scenes, things were even worse. Reports indicate that Tencent, the game’s initial backer, withdrew its support after Highguard failed to meet certain performance benchmarks. This triggered mass layoffs at the studio. The future of Wildlight Entertainment itself remains uncertain.

One Final Update Before the End

The studio announced it will release one final update before the servers go dark, featuring:

A new Warden (playable character)
A new weapon
Account level progression
Skill trees

Wildlight invited players to jump in one last time to enjoy the final update together.

The Live Service Graveyard Keeps Growing

Highguard’s rapid demise highlights a chronic problem in the industry. Concord lasted 9 days. Spectre Divide survived a few months. Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League struggled for about a year. Remember the Concord story? It launched with sky-high expectations and became one of the fastest AAA shutdowns in history.

Generic, soulless live service games that fail to differentiate themselves from dozens of competitors continue to share the same fate. Major publishers keep pouring millions into chasing the “next Fortnite” dream while players refuse to even give these games a chance.

Highguard’s servers will be permanently shut down on March 12, 2026.

Cyberpunk 2077 is Coming to Xbox Game Pass!

Nomad — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 17:54:00 GMT

Xbox Game Pass Game Pass March 2026 Cyberpunk 2077 Game Pass

Cyberpunk 2077 is Coming to Xbox Game Pass!

Nomad

• March 3, 2026

Xbox Game Pass is kicking off March 2026 with a massive lineup. Microsoft has announced the first wave of games coming to the service, headlined by the long-awaited Hollow Knight: Silksong and the neon-soaked streets of Cyberpunk 2077.

Available Today (March 3)

Two major titles have landed on the service today:

Final Fantasy III (Cloud, Console, and PC): Available for Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, and PC Game Pass members.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II (Cloud, Console, and PC): Henry’s epic tale of revenge in 15th-century Bohemia joins the library on day one for Ultimate, Premium, and PC Game Pass.

Coming Soon

Here is the schedule and platform details for the rest of March:

Game	Date	Platform	Subscription Tier
to a T	March 4	Cloud, Console, PC	Ultimate, Premium, PC
EA Sports F1 25	March 4	Cloud, Console, PC	Ultimate, PC (via EA Play)
Planet of Lana II	March 5	Cloud, Console, Handheld, PC	Ultimate, PC
Construction Simulator	March 10	Cloud, Console, PC	Ultimate, Premium, PC
Cyberpunk 2077	March 10	Cloud, Console	Ultimate, Premium
Hollow Knight: Silksong	March 12	Cloud, Console, Handheld, PC	Ultimate, PC (includes Premium)
Gabby’s Dollhouse: Ready to Party	March 17	Cloud, Console, PC	Ultimate, Premium, PC

Updates and Benefits

Diablo II: Resurrected: Now available via Cloud Gaming as of February 11.
Call of Duty: Warzone Black Ops Royale: Launching March 13 on the Avalon map. This reimagined mode focuses on pure skill with no loadouts or buy stations.
Warzone Perk Pack (Pack 5): Game Pass members can claim a free bundle including an Operator Skin, weapon blueprints, and XP tokens.

Leaving March 15

The following titles will be leaving the library on March 15:

Bratz Rhythm & Style
Enter the Gungeon
F1 23
He is Coming
Lightyear Frontier
Mythwrecked: Ambrosia Island

Be sure to play these before they’re gone, or use your member discount to save up to 20% and keep them in your collection.

First Look at God of War TV Series Revealed: Fans React to Kratos' Appearance

G-Man — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 17:55:36 GMT

god of war god of war tv series god of war prime video

First Look at God of War TV Series Revealed: Fans React to Kratos' Appearance

G-Man

• February 27, 2026

First Look at God of War TV Series Revealed: Kratos and Atreus Debut

The long-awaited live-action adaptation of God of War has finally provided a first glimpse of its protagonists. Amazon Prime Video, in collaboration with PlayStation Productions, has officially shared the first image featuring Ryan Hurst as the iconic Ghost of Sparta, Kratos, alongside his son, Atreus.

While the announcement of the cast and the production phase had built significant hype, this first visual reveal has sparked a polarizing debate across social media platforms.

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A Polished Look or Too Artificial?

Fans have been quick to dissect every detail of the image. The primary point of contention is the visual fidelity and “feel” of the characters. Many observers have noted that the image possesses an almost AI-generated quality, with some calling the look “plastic” or “unnatural” relative to the gritty, grounded atmosphere of the 2018 game.

The prosthetic work and overall lighting have led to concerns about the show’s production value. Despite Ryan Hurst’s proven track record—including his powerful performance as Thor in God of War: Ragnarok—this first physical transformation into Kratos hasn’t quite met the sky-high expectations of the franchise’s fanbase.

What to Expect Next

The God of War series is expected to follow the narrative of the 2018 Norse saga, focusing on the complex relationship between Kratos and Atreus as they journey through the mythological realms. Whether this first image is representative of the final post-production quality or simply an early promotional shot remains to be seen.

As production continues, fans are eagerly waiting for a teaser trailer to see Hurst in motion, hoping that the cinematic experience will capture the raw emotion and brutal action that the series is known for.

For now, the Ghost of Sparta’s first step into live-action is certainly leaving a mark—just perhaps not the one Amazon intended.

Resident Evil Requiem Review Scores Are In: A Near-Perfect Start With 10/10s Across the Board

Nomad — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:40:00 GMT

resident evil requiem resident evil requiem review resident evil requiem review scores

Resident Evil Requiem Review Scores Are In: A Near-Perfect Start With 10/10s Across the Board

Nomad

• February 25, 2026

Capcom’s highly anticipated survival horror title Resident Evil Requiem has had its review embargo lifted, and the scores are in. The game is receiving widespread critical acclaim, sitting at 90 on OpenCritic and 89 on Metacritic. With multiple outlets awarding perfect scores, Resident Evil Requiem is shaping up to be one of the strongest entries in the franchise’s history.

What Are Critics Saying?

The picture is overwhelmingly positive. Major publications like GameRant, Xbox Tavern, GAMINGbible, and Prima Games gave the game a perfect 10/10. Gamer Guides scored it 96 out of 100, while PSX Brasil awarded it 95.

Mid-range scores remain impressively high. PlayStation LifeStyle, TechRaptor, and GameSpew all landed at 9/10, while Giant Bomb and MonsterVine gave it 4.5 out of 5.

Even the more conservative outlets scored it well above average. VGC and Digital Spy gave it 4 out of 5, and the lowest score came from Region Free with 3 out of 5, still a positive verdict.

Full Score Breakdown

Outlet	Score
GameRant	10 / 10
Digitale Anime	10 / 10
ProGamers.life	10 / 10
Xbox Tavern	10 / 10
ReGame It	10 / 10
Restart.run	5 / 5
Digitec Magazine	5 / 5
GameOnly	5 / 5
Gameliner	5 / 5
GAMINGbible	10 / 10
ThreeTwoPlay	5 / 5
Eurogamer.pt	5 / 5
Prima Games	10 / 10
Gamer Guides	96 / 100
PSX Brasil	95 / 100
Just Play it	9.5 / 10
The Nerd Stash	9.5 / 10
One More Game	9.5 / 10
Twisted Voxel	9.5 / 10
Loot Level Chill	9.5 / 10
Giant Bomb	4.5 / 5
PlayStation LifeStyle	9 / 10
TechRaptor	9 / 10
The Outerhaven Productions	4.5 / 5
GameSpew	9 / 10
Quest Daily	9 / 10
Hey Poor Player	4.5 / 5
MonsterVine	4.5 / 5
SmashPad	4.5 / 5
But Why Tho?	9 / 10
Gfinity	9 / 10
GameBlast	9 / 10
GamerFocus	9 / 10
ElderPlayers	9 / 10
GRYOnline.pl	8.5 / 10
Cerealkillerz	8.5 / 10
SavePoint Gaming	8.5 / 10
Nexus Hub	8.5 / 10
VGC	4 / 5
Digital Spy	4 / 5
Enternity.gr	8 / 10
Console Creatures	8 / 10
HCL.hr	80 / 100
Dexerto	4 / 5
Glitched Africa	8 / 10
Mashable	3.75 / 5
Region Free	3 / 5

A New Peak for the Franchise?

With these scores, Resident Evil Requiem joins Resident Evil 4 Remake and Resident Evil 2 Remake among the highest-rated entries in the series. Its 90 on OpenCritic places it firmly in the “Mighty” tier.

Capcom’s consistent quality streak with the Resident Evil franchise appears to have reached its peak with Requiem. Whether the game satisfies both longtime fans and newcomers remains to be seen, but the critical consensus is clear: Resident Evil Requiem is a strong Game of the Year contender for 2026.

Marvel's Wolverine Release Date Announced: The Claws Out on September 15, 2026

G-Man — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:15:00 GMT

Marvel's Wolverine Marvel's Wolverine Release Date Marvel's Wolverine PS5

Marvel's Wolverine Release Date Announced: The Claws Out on September 15, 2026

G-Man

• February 24, 2026

Marvel’s Wolverine Official Release Date Revealed: September 15, 2026

The moment PlayStation 5 owners and Marvel fans around the world have been waiting for is finally here. Marvel’s Wolverine, developed by the acclaimed team at Insomniac Games, now has an official release date. The brutal and highly anticipated action title will launch on September 15, 2026.

First revealed during a State of Play showcase with a teaser that set the internet on fire, the game will take players into the gritty underworld of Madripoor, exploring the untamed nature of Logan.

A Mature Take from Insomniac Games

Following the massive success of the Marvel’s Spider-Man series, Insomniac is taking a darker, more mature turn with Wolverine. The game is expected to be a full-length, M-rated experience, staying true to the character’s violent comic book roots. Logan’s healing factor and adamantium claws will be at the heart of both the narrative and the viscereal gameplay mechanics.

Whispers of iconic characters like Omega Red and Mystique making appearances have been circulating for months, and with this new release date announcement, the countdown to September 2026 has officially begun.

PS5 Exclusivity and Features

Marvel’s Wolverine is being built from the ground up to utilize the full power of the PlayStation 5. From lightning-fast load times via the SSD to haptic feedback from the DualSense controller, fans can expect a truly next-gen superhero experience. While a PC version might arrive later down the line following Sony’s current strategy, PS5 remains the place to be at launch.

You can visit the official PlayStation Store page here:Marvel’s Wolverine on PS Store

Do you think Wolverine will surpass the success of Spider-Man? Let us know your expectations in the comments!

Discord Backtracks: Mandatory Age Verification Delayed!

Nomad — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 18:30:00 GMT

discord discord age verification discord privacy

Discord Backtracks: Mandatory Age Verification Delayed!

Nomad

• February 24, 2026

In a major reversal, Discord has significantly delayed its controversial global “mandatory age verification” system, which had drawn widespread criticism for threatening user anonymity. According to a new statement from CTO Stan Vishnevskiy, the global rollout of the age assurance system has been pushed back to the second half of 2026.

Community Wins: “We Heard You”

In a blog post, Vishnevskiy admitted that the platform failed to communicate the rollout effectively and acknowledged the community’s valid concerns. He aimed to address the fears that the platform would require mandatory face scans and identity uploads for every user to even access the app.

The new announcement highlights several critical pivots:

The 90% Rule: More than 90% of Discord users will never be required to verify their age to continue using the platform exactly as they do today.
Automated Determination: Discord will leverage its newly open-sourced “Osprey” engine and account-level signals to automatically verify most adult users without requiring direct action.
Credit Card Option: For adults who prefer not to share biometric data, a “credit card” verification option will be introduced as an alternative.

Data Stays on Your Device

Addressing the most vocal concerns regarding “facial age estimation,” Discord has set a new standard for third-party partners. All biometric processing must now occur entirely on the user’s device. Discord will only receive a non-identifying “adult” or “teen” result, ensuring that raw biometric data never reaches the platform’s or its partners’ servers.

Regulatory Pressures and Local Laws

Discord noted that it will continue to comply with local age verification laws in jurisdictions where they are already in effect, such as the UK, Australia, and soon Brazil. Until the global launch in 2026, the platform promises increased transparency, including detailed vendor documentation and dedicated transparency reports.

A Strategic Pause

While this backtrack is a clear victory for privacy advocates and the Discord community, it is worth noting that the system is still planned for 2026. This move may be a strategic attempt to de-escalate current tensions while the platform refines its approach. For now, however, users who value their online anonymity can breathe a sigh of relief.

Do you think this delay will lead to fundamental changes in Discord’s strategy, or is it just a temporary retreat until the backlash fades?

Source

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach PC System Requirements Detailed: Releasing March 19!

G-Man — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:55:00 GMT

Death Stranding 2 Death Stranding 2 PC Death Stranding 2 System Requirements

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach PC System Requirements Detailed: Releasing March 19!

G-Man

• February 24, 2026

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach PC Journey Begins March 19

The highly anticipated sequel from Hideo Kojima, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, is preparing for its grand debut on PC. Developed by Kojima Productions in collaboration with Nixxes Software, the game’s official PC system requirements have been announced. Sam Porter Bridges’ next adventure promises a graphical showcase that scales across a wide variety of hardware, ensuring a smooth delivery for every Porter.

Launching on March 19, the game is now available for pre-purchase on Steam and the Epic Games Store for $69.99.

Death Stranding 2 PC System Requirements

Nixxes has detailed four distinct hardware tiers, ranging from budget-friendly builds to high-end enthusiast rigs. Additionally, a dedicated “Portable” preset has been added for handheld gaming devices like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally.

Category	Minimum (1080p @ 30 FPS)	Medium (1080p @ 60 FPS)	High (1440p @ 60 FPS)	Very High (4K @ 60 FPS)
Graphics Preset	Low	Medium	High	Very High
GPU (NVIDIA)	GTX 1660	RTX 3060 12GB	RTX 3070	RTX 4080
GPU (AMD)	RX 5500 XT 8GB	RX 6600	RX 6800	RX 9070 XT
CPU (Intel)	Core i3-10100	Core i5-11400	Core i7-11700	Core i7-11700
CPU (AMD)	Ryzen 3 3100	Ryzen 5 5600	Ryzen 7 5700X	Ryzen 7 5700X
RAM	16 GB	16 GB	16 GB	16 GB
Storage	150 GB SSD	150 GB SSD	150 GB SSD	150 GB SSD
OS	Windows 10/11	Windows 10/11	Windows 10/11	Windows 10/11

Technical Innovation and Performance Tech

The PC edition of Death Stranding 2 is packed with the latest image reconstruction technologies. Support for NVIDIA DLSS 4, AMD FSR 4, and Intel XeSS 2 will be available on day one, including both upscaling and frame generation options.

A unique addition to the PC version is the “Pico” upscale setting. Developed by Guerrilla for the Decima engine and utilized in the PS5 version, this Progressive Image Compositor makes its PC debut. Pico is compatible with all supported graphics cards and can be used alongside various frame generation tools.

Cinematic Experience and Ultrawide Views

Death Stranding 2 on PC fully embraces cinematic immersion with support for ultrawide aspect ratios (21:9 and 32:9). All cutscenes have been meticulously crafted for a 21:9 view. Even without an ultrawide monitor, users with high-resolution 16:9 displays can enable widescreen modes in the settings to enjoy the broader field of vision.

In a first, a 21:9 ultrawide update will also be pushed to the PlayStation 5 version of the game simultaneously with the PC launch.

PlayStation Link Rewards

Players who link their accounts will gain access to the Link Porter Suit and Link Patch, inspired by the iconic PlayStation logo. These rewards will also be special bonuses for PS5 Porters following the launch day update.

Do you think these requirements are reasonable for a next-gen title? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Alpha Protocol Review

EdgeTypE — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:20:00 GMT

Alpha Protocol Alpha Protocol review Alpha Protocol review score

Alpha Protocol Review

EdgeTypE

• February 23, 2026

A few days ago, after growing to hate Obsidian’s latest release, The Outer Worlds 2, I started wondering “Do I just not like Obsidian games in general?” So I decided to play Alpha Protocol, Obsidian’s forgotten 2010 title, and I can say quite clearly that this game is pretty good.

Gaming-DB

Alpha Protocol

Alpha Protocol is definitely wasted potential. If it hadn't made those small mistakes, we might have seen it as an ongoing series today.

pros

cons

Great story writing and presentation

A James Bond-esque RPG experience

Clunky controls

Production quality that felt dated even at launch

Lockpicking mini-game

The moment I launched Alpha Protocol, the first thing I felt was how much it resembled Mass Effect. It was like playing a Mass Effect game set in the present day, far from science fiction, with a spy theme. Even the main character, Thorton, resembled Mass Effect’s protagonist Shepard. As a Mass Effect fan, this warmed me up to the game right from the start.

What Is Alpha Protocol?

Alpha Protocol is an action RPG, but a rare kind. Games usually try to offer worlds as different as possible from modern reality — some do this by going to the future, others to the past. Alpha Protocol stays in the present. When you think about it, you’d expect this kind of game to be more common. Because we’re so used to seeing the present day in films and TV, we assume games do the same, but no. A James Bond-style action game set in the modern day barely exists. Alpha Protocol fills this gap beautifully. Independent of its quality, for this reason alone, if an Alpha Protocol 2 were ever announced, I’d have it wishlisted immediately.

In the game, we take control of a character named Michael Thorton. At the start, you choose a character background — options like Soldier, Field Agent, and Tech Specialist are available. There are six different background options in total. I played as Veteran, which normally requires you to finish the game once first, but I used a mod to unlock it. Since the game is quite old, I installed a few mods and played with those.

Anyway, that’s not the point — let’s move on. Each character background affects both the story and your skill tree differently. You can start as a total rookie with no experience, or as a seasoned veteran spy. This alone adds a huge amount to the role-playing experience.

Perhaps the aspect I appreciated most was the dialogue system. The writing is excellent, and on top of that, your choices genuinely affect the game. Instead of the classic good, evil, and neutral options seen in Mass Effect-style games, here you have aggressive, calm, professional, or sarcastic dialogue choices. I loved this right away. It feels more realistic. It captures the sense that the character you’re guiding isn’t a caricature — he’s a real, living person. And your choices truly matter. Making these choices isn’t just about picking a line — for example, there’s a mission where I’m supposed to go in stealthily and avoid all confrontation. If I go in guns blazing and kill people, my relationship with one of the characters in that mission deteriorates. Or sometimes the game presents you with a fork: go through Door A and you can defuse the bomb, but go through Door B and you can save the hostage. The game forces these kinds of decisions during gameplay as well.

I don’t want to go into too much detail about the story. The less you know going in, the more you’ll enjoy it. Broadly speaking, you’re an agent who has joined the Alpha Protocol program. Due to certain events during a mission, all your records are erased and your own country starts hunting you as if you were a terrorist. Throughout the game, you’re trying to find and stop the people who orchestrated this conspiracy.

I can’t say the game has a particularly original story, but it’s an enjoyable one to play through. The dialogue writing and presentation are especially strong. The game has a Mafia 1-style narrative structure.

Like Mafia 1, the game revolves around an interrogation sequence. Chapter by chapter, you recount what happened to your interrogator, and then you play through those events. The story structure is almost identical to Mafia 1's, but it's woven into the game beautifully.

In an RPG, well-written dialogue is crucial, and Alpha Protocol genuinely delivers on that front. I mocked and taunted everyone I encountered throughout the game, and it was an absolute blast — I recommend you do the same.

Tarayıcınız video etiketini desteklemiyor.

Alongside the dialogue, the characters themselves are well written. No character with a significant role in the story ever feels like they lack a personality. Every character has a reason to be there, a motivation that drives them. Nobody is just another generic villain. Good or bad, every character has depth.

Throughout the game, you’re operating in the world of spies. You could be betrayed at any moment, so you have to choose carefully who to trust. You meet many characters along the way, and you have a relationship score with each of them that influences how they behave toward you. In this regard, I’d say it shares a similar vibe to the spy storyline in Cyberpunk 2077’s Phantom Liberty DLC.

The story takes you to several different countries. The order in which you travel to each location and tackle each mission is entirely up to you. The game opens in Saudi Arabia, and after finishing the missions there, you can freely explore Russia, Italy, and Taiwan in any order you like. This adds a nice sense of freedom. The missions aren’t directly linked to each other. For example, you arrive in a city, two missions appear, you complete one, and the intelligence you gather from it unlocks new missions.

I really liked this mission structure. Gather intel, unlock new missions, gather more intel, unlock even more. This loop genuinely makes you feel like you’re an intelligence agent whose actions are driving the story forward. In games where you can tackle missions in any order, there’s usually a narrative problem — Assassin’s Creed Shadows is the most recent example I can give. There too, the open mission order meant there was no real sense of story momentum, which made the narrative feel flat. Alpha Protocol handles this well. Even if they had presented these missions in a fixed linear order, it wouldn’t have felt out of place.

We’ve praised the game plenty. But as everyone knows, the Alpha Protocol series never continued, because the game unfortunately has major problems. The gameplay is clunky, as with every Obsidian game. In all honesty, I’d still rather play this than The Outer Worlds 2, which came out last year. But that doesn’t save it.

The game gives you genuine freedom in how you approach it. You can sneak through levels quietly like a stealth game, or blast your way through everything in your path. I think the differences between playstyles are implemented adequately, at least by 2010 standards. Now let’s get into why the game couldn’t find success:

The Gameplay… Oh, The Gameplay…

The game has one of the strangest shooting mechanics you’ll ever see. What do you normally expect from a shooter? There’s a dot, crosshair, or plus sign in the center of the screen, and when you fire, the bullet lands somewhere near that point. Well, in Alpha Protocol, that’s not how it works — and this is probably the biggest reason the game couldn’t survive into a sequel.

There’s a massive ring in the center of your screen. Depending on the weapon you’re using, it can be so large it nearly fills the entire display. When you fire, the bullet goes somewhere inside that ring, exercising its own free will. Apparently, during development they thought “RPGs have to have dice rolls and randomness” and decided on this crosshair system. If you’re going to play the game, I’d suggest playing on easy for this reason alone. Aiming is already hard enough — don’t add high enemy health pools on top of it.

The gameplay isn’t just a kill enemy, move on loop. There are plenty of hacking and lockpicking sequences. For example, if you’re caught while sneaking, alarms start blaring. You have to clear the area and then go shut off the alarm before more enemies arrive. This triggers a small mini-game. There are several of these mini-games woven into the gameplay. I can say with confidence that whoever designed these mini-games never actually played the game — at least not on PC.

A menu appears on screen with random letters and numbers scrolling past. Hidden among all these moving characters are two fixed character strings. You have to find them and move your cursor over them — controlling one with the mouse and the other simultaneously with the keyboard. Playing with a controller, this probably wasn’t so difficult, but with a keyboard and mouse it becomes unbearably frustrating. And then there’s something even worse.

Lockpicking… We’ve seen lockpicking mechanics in almost every game at this point. And I can say with full confidence that this is the worst lockpicking mechanic I’ve ever encountered. We’re supposed to slide a key up and down according to the lock’s feedback. How hard can that be? How did they manage to do it this badly? My hands were trembling, I was losing my mind, I cursed every single line of code. We’re talking about sliding a line up and down — how did they fail to implement that? The sensitivity is so absurd, the input lag so ridiculous, that I lost it completely. Even as I write these words, my heart rate is spiking. Words fail me.

You can make a single mechanic badly. You can make parts of a game badly. You can even make an entire game badly. But this is a line that moves up and down. What exactly did you fail to get right? I’m sure it’s not this bad with a controller, but with keyboard and mouse it’s an absolute disaster.

The game already runs into issues on modern platforms. I played the GOG version, which includes some bug fixes for modern computers. If you own it on Steam, you can also apply this patch to the Steam version. You can find detailed instructions here. Beyond the clunky controls, I didn’t encounter too many technical issues during my playthrough. I did run into two game-breaking bugs, both of which happened during the final mission, and I had to load my most recent save file to get past them.

Conclusion

In the end, Alpha Protocol became one of those games I was genuinely sad to see end. It’s been added to my list of games where I say “I wish there’d been a sequel” while knowing there never will be. If you enjoy Mass Effect-style RPGs, I’d definitely recommend giving it a look. And if you’re already familiar with old-school RPGs, the game’s rough edges probably won’t bother you all that much.

Gaming-DB

Alpha Protocol

Alpha Protocol is definitely wasted potential. If it hadn't made those small mistakes, we might have seen it as an ongoing series today.

pros

cons

Great story writing and presentation

A James Bond-esque RPG experience

Clunky controls

Production quality that felt dated even at launch

Lockpicking mini-game

StarRupture Early Access Review

EdgeTypE — Sat, 21 Feb 2026 11:15:00 GMT

StarRupture StarRupture review StarRupture early access review

StarRupture Early Access Review

EdgeTypE

• February 21, 2026

Normally, I need to finish a game and see its end credits before writing a review. But since we’re talking about an early access game, I think it makes the most sense to evaluate it based on what it currently offers and what it promises for the future.

Gaming-DB

StarRupture Early Access

A factory-building and resource extraction game set on a mysterious alien planet. Pretty solid for early access.

pros

cons

Promising future

Has an engaging story

Visuals are great

Exploration is fun but gets tedious

Most crafted items have no use outside of missions

At its core, StarRupture is a factory automation game. You land on a mysterious planet, build factories, and set up automation systems to harvest its resources, all while trying to survive the planet’s harsh conditions. What sets StarRupture apart from similar games, in my opinion, is those very planetary conditions. When you head out to explore, you can’t just wander carelessly. At the end of every in-game day, massive storms sweep across the entire planet, incinerating everything alive. This makes every exploration run feel tense. You’re constantly calculating: “If I go this far and head back, will I make it?” Because if the storm catches you, there’s no surviving it. And the planet itself is deeply mysterious, which significantly shapes how you play.

Don’t think of this mechanic as just a reason to go home at night. For example, some areas are densely populated with alien enemies. If you wait for the storm to pass and then move in, all those enemies will be dead, letting you loot the area with ease. This adds a nice layer of dynamic strategy to the game, encouraging you to plan your day carefully. Exploration is a big part of StarRupture, but honestly, it started to wear on me after a while. Exploration itself isn’t the problem, it’s that the game starts forcing it on you, and what begins as a sense of wonder gradually turns into the stress of hunting for a specific thing across a massive map. As you progress, you need to find blueprints to unlock new factories, raw materials, and other upgrades. And finding those blueprints means exploring the map.

Say you need a specific blueprint. If you can’t find its exact location on the map, you’re stuck. I spent hours wandering around, finding plenty of blueprints I wouldn’t need for a long time, but never the one I actually needed. Eventually I gave up and looked it up online. That killed the exploration vibe for me. From that point on, going out to explore felt less like adventure and more like dragging yourself to a 8 AM lecture you hate.

That said, exploration can still be genuinely engaging in later parts of the game. StarRupture has a story, and it doesn’t tell it through cutscenes. Instead, the narrative unfolds through your character’s dialogue, their reactions to events, and audio logs left behind by research teams that landed on the planet before you. And yes, you actually have a character here. In most games of this type, you’re essentially piloting a silent robot. But in StarRupture, your character reacts to the environment, speaks up, and holds actual conversations.

There’s also an AI assistant that you interact with as you complete missions and explore. The dialogue between your character and the AI is genuinely well-written. The game features 4 playable characters, generic archetypes like soldier and scientist, and you can switch between them at any time. StarRupture supports co-op for up to 4 players; if you play with friends, the other characters are taken on by them. I personally couldn’t find anyone to play with, so I can’t comment on how the co-op experience holds up.

In factory-building games, mistakes can sometimes cost you enormous amounts of effort, a factory placed in the wrong spot, production that can’t keep up with consumption, a supply chain that falls apart. StarRupture is notably more forgiving than most games in this genre. I’d say it’s on the easier end overall. To progress, you need to produce materials for various corporations. There are 6 corporations, each with their own mission tree. A corporation tells you to produce a certain amount of a specific material, you send it up to space, and in return they teach you how to build a new factory.

The problem is that after a certain point, you never need to produce those same materials again. I’ll build an entire factory network to fulfill a mission requirement, and once the mission is done, the whole setup becomes completely useless. It serves no further purpose.

Beyond factory management, StarRupture has an action component as well. The weapon variety is solid, and you can customize your loadout to your liking. That said, the gunplay has some noticeable issues. I didn’t see many others complain about this, so it might just be a me problem, but aiming felt very strange throughout. I struggled with it quite a bit, which I suspect is largely due to my unusually high mouse sensitivity settings.

Just like your weapons, your character can also be upgraded, but not through a traditional skill point system, which I’ve never been a fan of. Instead, StarRupture uses a dynamic progression model: run around and your stamina improves; get into combat and your combat skills develop. Every 5–10 levels, you earn an upgrade slot. These upgrades are called LEMs, which also have a role in the game’s story, and they let you shape your character build. LEMs are divided into categories like mobility and combat. You can find them by exploring the world or completing certain missions.

Which LEMs you equip is entirely up to you. For example, I used one that regenerates stamina faster, while someone else might prefer one that reduces the stamina cost of jumping.

For an early access game, there’s honestly not much more to ask for. You can easily sink dozens of hours into it right now.

The visuals and graphics hook you from the very first moment you launch the game. Rather than the stylized art direction you typically see in this genre, StarRupture goes for a more photorealistic approach, and it works really well. The map genuinely feels like a living world, especially as it dynamically changes around you, reinforcing the sense that you’re on an actual living planet.

In short: if you enjoy games like Satisfactory or Factorio, this is absolutely worth checking out. But if factory-building and automation systems aren’t your thing, stay away, because this game will bore you just as much as the rest of the genre. As someone who loves this type of game, I can wholeheartedly recommend it to fellow fans. And remember, this is still early access, I’m hopeful it’ll grow into something even better down the line. Personally, I loved it so much that I even put together a Turkish localization patch for it. You can find it here.

Gaming-DB

StarRupture Early Access

A factory-building and resource extraction game set on a mysterious alien planet. Pretty solid for early access.

pros

cons

Promising future

Has an engaging story

Visuals are great

Exploration is fun but gets tedious

Most crafted items have no use outside of missions

The Return of Xbox: Asha Sharma Replaces Phil Spencer as New CEO!

Nomad — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 21:27:41 GMT

xbox xbox ceo Phil Spencer retirement

The Return of Xbox: Asha Sharma Replaces Phil Spencer as New CEO!

Nomad

• February 20, 2026

Phil Spencer Leaves Microsoft After 38 Years: Asha Sharma Named New Xbox CEO

A massive leadership shakeup has occurred at Microsoft Gaming. Xbox icon Phil Spencer has announced his retirement, with Asha Sharma stepping in to take his place. Xbox President Sarah Bond is also among the executives departing the company.

Phil Spencer Retires from Microsoft

Having joined Microsoft as an intern in 1988, Phil Spencer is retiring after a 38-year career. Spencer shared this decision with CEO Satya Nadella last fall, allowing for a quietly planned transition process.

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During his tenure, Spencer transformed Xbox from a mere console brand into a global platform encompassing PC, mobile, and cloud gaming. Massive acquisitions like Activision Blizzard, ZeniMax, and Minecraft took place under his watch, nearly tripling the business volume. However, his era also saw a decline in Xbox’s dominance strictly as a console brand, alongside the release of several critically panned titles. Phil Spencer will remain in an advisory role until the summer to support the transition.

The New CEO: Asha Sharma

Asha Sharma has officially stepped into her role as the new Executive Vice President and CEO of Microsoft Gaming, reporting directly to Satya Nadella. Prior to joining Microsoft, Sharma served as COO at Instacart and Vice President at Meta. She brings deep expertise in building and scaling consumer platforms that reach billions of users.

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In her inaugural message to the staff, Sharma emphasized feeling both a profound sense of humility and urgency. Highlighting the rapid changes within the gaming industry, she outlined the roadmap for this new era based on three core commitments:

1. Great Games: Noting that unforgettable characters and stories beloved by players are the foundation of everything, Sharma stated they will empower studios, invest in iconic franchises, and back bold new ideas.

2. The Return of Xbox: A clear message was given regarding a renewed focus on Microsoft’s roots and console players. While expansions into PC, mobile, and cloud will continue, the goal is to make the Xbox ecosystem a seamless, instant, and barrier-free platform for developers.

3. The Future of Play: Addressing the rise of AI and new monetization models, Sharma offered a reassuring message to players: “We will not chase short-term efficiency or flood our ecosystem with soulless AI slop. Games are and always will be art, crafted by humans.”

Expanded Role for Matt Booty

Matt Booty has been promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Content Officer, reporting directly to Sharma. Under Booty’s leadership, Microsoft Gaming has grown to encompass nearly 40 studios across Xbox, Bethesda, Activision Blizzard, and King. These studios are home to legendary franchises including Halo, The Elder Scrolls, Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, Diablo, Candy Crush, and Fallout. No organizational changes are planned within the studio teams.

Sarah Bond Departs

Xbox President Sarah Bond has also left Microsoft during this transition. Bond played an instrumental role in shaping platform strategy, expanding Game Pass and cloud gaming, and managing critical hardware launches.

A Platform Reaching 500 Million Players

As of today, Microsoft Gaming reaches over 500 million monthly active users, standing as a top publisher across all major platforms. Satya Nadella described these figures and the opportunities ahead as “expansive,” reiterating that gaming remains at the center of Microsoft’s consumer strategy. How Microsoft Gaming will shape its “player and developer-centric” vision in this new era under Asha Sharma and Matt Booty will be closely watched by the tech and gaming world. While the initial statements sound promising, personal trust in Microsoft’s execution remains to be earned.

Hytale Update 3 Is Live: Animal Taming, Map Markers, and More Added in Week 4 of Early Access

G-Man — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 15:28:58 GMT

hytale update 3 hytale patch notes update 3 hytale early access update

Hytale Update 3 Is Live: Animal Taming, Map Markers, and More Added in Week 4 of Early Access

G-Man

• February 17, 2026

Hytale’s development team has released the game’s third major update (Update 3) in week four of Early Access, dated February 17, 2026. The patch introduces mechanics players have been waiting for — most notably an animal taming system — alongside a wave of technical improvements and quality-of-life changes across the board.

The team also clarified the update cadence going forward: weekly pre-release patches will be pushed for testing purposes, with a stable bundled update rolling out every two to six weeks once things feel solid.

Here’s everything new in Hytale Update 3.

Headline Features

Animal Taming System

An early version of animal taming is now in the game. Players can tame friendlier animals found during exploration by having their favorite food on hand. Once tamed:

Animals won’t flee from players unless attacked, and will occasionally greet them
They can be petted with an empty hand and fed periodically
Depending on the species, tamed animals can be milked, sheared, or mounted

Customizable Map Markers

User-Placed Map Markers are now available. Players can drop custom markers anywhere on the map, assigning a name, icon, and color to each one.

Markers can be shared with other players in multiplayer
Visibility on the map and compass can be toggled via new gameplay settings
Markers are removed through the map context menu

The Cursebreaker Arc

The team shared more detail on how Hytale’s story will unfold through Early Access. The Cursebreaker arc is the backbone of Exploration Mode — progressing chapter by chapter until the final chapter brings Orbis within reach and the game steps into full release.

Gameplay & Mechanics

Several changes affect farming and combat in meaningful ways:

Sickles: A new tool capable of harvesting multiple crops in a single swing
Climbing Overhaul: Ropes now support side-stepping, dropping down, and rotating — a significant improvement over the previous system
Fire Spread System & Goblin Flamethrower: A new fluid ticker-based fire spread system has been added. The Goblin Flamethrower is also in — currently Creative mode only
Avatar Presets: Up to 5 avatar customizations can now be saved and swapped between

Localization & Technical Improvements

Hytale’s first localization wave has arrived: Brazilian Portuguese and Russian are now available as in-game language options, with more languages to follow in the coming weeks. The team credited community translators for making this happen.

On the technical side, Font Fallback Support has been implemented, enabling the client to fetch glyphs from fallback fonts when they’re missing — a necessary step for non-Latin language support, including Cyrillic.

Other Notable Changes

Modding: The team has hired directly from the modding community. A new Anchor UI system now allows server plugins to inject UI elements into client pages such as the world map
Combat: Spear stacking and throwing have been fixed across all types; ranged weapon ballistics have been improved; Necromancy Grimoire summons are now faster, smarter, and include a new ranged skeletal variant
Cosmetics: New hats, clothing, hairstyles, facial hair options, and makeup variations added
Crafting: Early-game item crafting times have been reduced; a “Take All” button has been added for processing bench output; shift-dragging now quickly transfers items between inventories

Security Fixes

Two notable security issues were resolved in this update:

A directory traversal vulnerability in worlds and prefabs has been patched
An exploit that allowed users to run commands on behalf of other connected players has been closed

Hytale continues to take shape through Early Access, with the team growing and the update cadence picking up. Update 3 marks a clear step forward in both content depth and technical stability.

Xbox Game Pass February 2026 Wave 2: Witcher 3, Kingdom Come Deliverance 2, and 10+ Games Coming This Month

G-Man — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 15:12:16 GMT

xbox game pass february 2026 game pass february 2026 wave 2 game pass new games february 2026

Xbox Game Pass February 2026 Wave 2: Witcher 3, Kingdom Come Deliverance 2, and 10+ Games Coming This Month

G-Man

• February 17, 2026

Microsoft has just revealed the second wave of Xbox Game Pass titles for February 2026 — and it’s a strong one. The lineup includes both Day One releases and some of the most acclaimed RPGs in gaming history, making this one of the more compelling monthly additions in recent memory.

According to details shared by Microsoft, the second half of February and the start of March bring heavy hitters like Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt — Complete Edition to the service. Here’s everything coming to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, and Game Pass Premium — with full platform and tier breakdowns.

Available Now (February 17)

The second half of February kicks off today with Ubisoft’s open-world blockbuster and a stylish indie Day One release.

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
- Platform: Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, PC
- Tier: Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass
- Details: Set in the never-before-seen Western Frontier of Pandora, this open-world action-adventure puts you in the role of a Na’vi fighting back against the RDA. A recent third-person camera update adds a fresh way to experience the world.
Aerial_Knight’s DropShot (Day One)
- Platform: Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, PC
- Tier: Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass
Avowed (Major Update)
- Platform: Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC
- Tier: Game Pass Premium
- Details: Obsidian’s RPG enters Game Pass Premium alongside its biggest update yet — adding new playable races, New Game Plus mode, Photo Mode, and a new quarterstaff weapon type. A great entry point for new players and returning ones alike.

Coming Soon

The rest of the wave caters heavily to RPG fans and simulation enthusiasts.

February 19

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Complete Edition
- Platform: Cloud, Console
- Tier: Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium
- Note: The Complete Edition includes all expansions — Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine — making this the definitive way to experience Geralt’s story.
EA Sports College Football 26
- Platform: Cloud, Xbox Series X|S
- Tier: Game Pass Ultimate (via EA Play)
- Note: Ultimate subscribers get instant access through EA Play. A Supercharge Pack bonus is available February 19–March 20, along with 10% off EA digital purchases.
Death Howl
- Platform: Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, PC
- Tier: Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass

February 24

TCG Card Shop Simulator (Game Preview)
- Platform: Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, PC
- Tier: Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass
- Details: Run your own trading card game shop — stock shelves, crack packs, set prices, hire staff, and host events. Already a cult hit on PC.

February 25

Dice A Million (Day One)
- Platform: PC
- Tier: Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass

February 26

Towerborne (Full Release)
- Platform: Console, Handheld, PC
- Tier: Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass
- Details: Towerborne exits Game Preview and launches as a complete game with new story content, offline play support, and optional online co-op.

March Starts Strong (March 3)

The first week of March brings two massive RPGs to the service.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
- Platform: Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC
- Tier: Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass
- Note: Set in 15th-century Bohemia, this historically grounded action RPG was voted Game of the Year by our readers. Check out our full review.
Final Fantasy III
- Platform: Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC
- Tier: Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass

Leaving February 28

The following games are being removed from Game Pass on February 28. Buy them with up to 20% off before they go:

Monster Train (Cloud, Console, PC)
Expeditions: A MudRunner Game (Cloud, Console, PC)
Injustice 2 (Cloud, Console, PC)
Middle-earth: Shadow of War (Cloud, Console, PC)

The Game Pass library is shaping up well this month. The combination of Kingdom Come: Deliverance II and The Witcher 3 alone makes February 2026 one of the better months for RPG fans on the service.

Solid Snake Joins Rainbow Six Siege! Complete Y11S1 Operation Silent Hunt Details

G-Man — Sun, 15 Feb 2026 17:17:02 GMT

Rainbow Six Siege R6 Siege Solid Snake

Solid Snake Joins Rainbow Six Siege! Complete Y11S1 Operation Silent Hunt Details

G-Man

• February 15, 2026

Ubisoft has officially unveiled Year 11 Season 1 for the tactical FPS giant Rainbow Six Siege. Named Operation Silent Hunt, this new season brings one of gaming’s most iconic characters, Solid Snake, to the Team Rainbow roster.

Alongside the Metal Gear Solid legend Snake, players can expect map modernizations, significant balance changes, and quality-of-life improvements with Y11S1. Here are all the key details from the new season.

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New Operator: Solid Snake

When it comes to stealth and tactical superiority, Solid Snake is among the first names that come to mind. He joins Rainbow Six Siege on the Attacker side. Thanks to his “On-Site Procurement” (OSP) training, Snake is designed as a versatile operator who can adapt to battlefield dynamics.

Special Equipment: Soliton Radar Mk. III

Snake’s primary gadget is vital for detecting enemies. The Soliton Radar Mk. III is used as a handheld device, marking present hostiles on a minimap.

Precision Mode: Allows you to pinpoint threats precisely, but be careful—when this mode is used, enemies receive an alert that they’ve been detected by Solid Snake.
Recon Advantage: The radar provides an instant view of the immediate surroundings, laying the groundwork for teammates to establish map control.

Passive Ability: OSP (On-Site Procurement)

One of Snake’s most notable features is resource management. Snake can collect secondary gadgets from fallen operators, refreshing his inventory based on how the battle unfolds. Additionally, his iconic weapon, the TACIT .45, is included as a secondary weapon in his loadout.

Operator Balance Changes and Meta Shifts

With Year 11, Ubisoft is changing its balancing philosophy. The development team will now target a specific meta each season, and in Y11S1, they’re focusing on “Entry-Fragging” and “Roaming” roles.

Skopós (Major Changes)

Skopós becomes much more aggressive in the new season.

Speed/Armor: Speed rating increased from 2 to 3, Health rating decreased from 2 to 1.
Shell Transitions: Shell swap time reduced from 3 seconds to 0.5 seconds.
Mobility: V10 Pantheon Shells now move faster and have the same destruction power as Aruni’s melee attacks.

Shield Operators (Nerf)

A critical change has been made for Blackbeard, Blitz, Montagne, Fuze, and Clash. Shield operators can no longer dash through undamaged barricades. This change aims to limit shield operators’ aggressive “rush” capabilities and force them into more distant engagements.

Other Important Balance Changes

Twitch (F2): Vertical, Angled, and Horizontal grips added to the F2 assault rifle. The weapon will now be easier to control.
Flores: T-95 LSW weapon added to his arsenal to increase flexibility.
Ela: Grzmot mine concussion duration increased from 7 seconds to 9 seconds.
Ying: Candela flash duration increased from 1.4 seconds to 1.6 seconds.
Amaru: Garra Hook charges increased from 4 to 5.

Map and Gameplay Updates

Modernized Maps

The season brings “modernized” touches to Coastline, Villa, and Oregon maps. Alongside graphics and lighting improvements, new destructible surfaces have been added and the maps have received an overall health pass.

Ranked Map Rotation

To provide players with a more dynamic experience, the number of maps in the Ranked pool has been reduced from 16 to 13.

Removed: Kanal, Skyscraper, Theme Park, Outback.
Added: Emerald Plains.
Note: A second rotation change will occur mid-season.

1v1 Arcade Mode

Inspired by content creators’ and the community’s favorite settings, the 1v1 Arcade mode based on bomb rules will be playable for a limited time from April 16-30.

Anti-Toxicity and Quality of Life

Reporting System: Reporting categories increased from 4 to 16. Players can now specify complaint reasons much more specifically (e.g., types of Griefing).
Match Cancellation (Ranked): If a team causes a match to be cancelled, disconnected players will receive “Abandon” and “Queue Ban” penalties. The player who caused the cancellation and their squad mates will receive a match loss.

Farewell to Dual Front Mode and Metal Gear Solid Event

After three seasons, the Dual Front mode will be removed from the game as of Y11S2. However, before bidding farewell to the mode, a Metal Gear Solid-themed “Malware Containment” assignment will be added to the game. This game mode, which Ubisoft brought with high hopes, was never played by any players. The sad part is, according to rumors, Ubisoft worked on this mode for years. So years of effort went to waste. In the newly added assignment, players will attempt to capture Eidolon’s access key under Zero’s orders.

What are your thoughts on these changes coming with Operation Silent Hunt? We’re waiting for your comments.

Keanu Reeves Returns as Baba Yaga: John Wick Game Announced for PS5

G-Man — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 08:03:13 GMT

john wick john wick game john wick video game

Keanu Reeves Returns as Baba Yaga: John Wick Game Announced for PS5

G-Man

• February 13, 2026

Great news for the PlayStation community! Saber Interactive has officially announced they are working on a long-awaited John Wick adaptation. The story of “Baba Yaga” will meet PlayStation 5 players in an interactive experience this time.

While the official title and release date haven’t been announced yet, the production comes with details that will excite fans of the series. Developed in close collaboration with Chad Stahelski (John Wick director), Keanu Reeves, and Lionsgate, the game aims to offer an adrenaline-fueled AAA experience faithful to the John Wick universe. Designed exclusively for PlayStation 5, this is great news for those waiting for a new John Wick game.

Blurring the Lines Between Film and Game

Game director Jesus Iglesias stated that they are fans of the series and bringing this project to life is a great honor for them. The story is being created together with the film’s screenwriters and Chad Stahelski. Focusing on a specific period in John Wick’s life, this production will have an original narrative contributing to the expanding universe of the series.

Players will encounter not only familiar faces but also new characters designed specifically for this production.

“Gun-Fu” Action Comes to Your Home

The “Gun-Fu” fighting style, which has become the signature of John Wick movies, will also be at the center of the game. The development team states that they have designed a special combat system so that players can truly feel like they are inside a John Wick movie. Cinematic camera angles, intense car chases, and a neo-noir atmosphere adorned with neon lights will be among the game’s strongest points. It is already a candidate to solidify its place among PS5 action games.

Saber Interactive emphasizes that they aim to offer players not just a game, but a completely immersive experience. Designed to stay true to John Wick’s iconic style, this production aims to erase the border between film and game.

The official release date and game name have not been shared yet, but an exciting wait awaits PlayStation 5 owners.

New God of War Games Announced at State of Play! Every Game Revealed

Nomad — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 07:48:37 GMT

state of play february 2026 playstation state of play 2026 ps5 new games

New God of War Games Announced at State of Play! Every Game Revealed

Nomad

• February 13, 2026

PlayStation State of Play February 2026: All Games Announced and Details

PlayStation excited the gaming world with numerous announcements at its State of Play event held on February 12-13, 2026. This special broadcast, lasting over 60 minutes, featured news from major franchises including God of War, Metal Gear Solid, Castlevania, and Silent Hill.

God of War: Two Major Surprises

The most striking announcements of State of Play came from the God of War series. Santa Monica Studio revealed that a remake of the original God of War trilogy (God of War, God of War II, and God of War III) is in development. Since the project is still in early development stages, new information isn’t expected anytime soon.

Additionally, God of War: Sons of Sparta, a 2D action platformer developed in partnership with Mega Cat Studios, launched for PS5 alongside the event. The game covers Kratos’ period as a Spartan warrior before becoming a god.

Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2

Konami finally announced the long-awaited Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2. The collection will launch for PS5 on August 27, 2026. The package includes Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker, and Metal Gear: Ghost Babel as a bonus title. MGS4 being playable on platforms other than PS3 for the first time is a major development for series fans.

Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse

Konami’s other big surprise was the return of the Castlevania series, which hasn’t seen a new game in over 10 years. Developed by Motion Twin and Evil Empire, Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse combines classic 2D action-exploration gameplay with a modern art style. The game will launch this year for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch.

Kena: Bridge of Spirits Sequel Coming

Ember Lab announced Kena: Scars of Kosmora, the sequel to 2021’s Kena: Bridge of Spirits. In the new game, a more experienced Kena explores the mysterious island of Kosmora. Thanks to the partnership with PlayStation Studios, a larger world is promised. The game will launch in 2026 for PS5 and PC.

John Wick Game

Saber Interactive is working with the creators of the legendary action film series to tell a previously unseen story of John Wick. The game aims to make the series’ signature gun-fu scenes and cinematic camera work playable. Release date and official title haven’t been announced yet.

Silent Hill: Townfall

The new entry in the horror series, Silent Hill: Townfall, is being developed by Screen Burn Interactive. The game, played from a first-person perspective, features exploration and puzzle-solving mechanics. A portable CRT TV device in the game will be used both in enemy encounters and to reveal more of the story.

Marathon and Bungie’s Return

Bungie’s multiplayer shooter Marathon will launch on March 5, 2026. However, players can experience the game earlier: an open beta period called Server Slam will run from February 26 to March 2. PS5 players can earn special rewards during this period.

Control Sequel: Control Resonant

Remedy Entertainment shared new gameplay footage from Control Resonant, the continuation of the Control universe. In the game starring Dylan Faden, supernatural powers like running on building sides and fighting gravity anomalies will be used. Set in a version of Manhattan reshaped by supernatural forces.

Resident Evil Requiem Final Trailer

Capcom’s new entry in its iconic horror series, Resident Evil Requiem, launches on February 27. The launch trailer shown at State of Play includes new story hints and action sequences.

Other Major Announcements

Ghost of Yōtei Legends

Ghost of Yōtei’s free multiplayer expansion Legends launches on March 10. The four-player co-op mode will offer different character classes and mission types.

Death Stranding 2: PC Version

Kojima Productions’ highly anticipated game Death Stranding 2: On the Beach will come to PC on March 19, 2026. New features will also be updated for PS5 on the same day.

Star Wars: Galactic Racer

The new racing game set in the Star Wars universe features illegal races in the Outer Rim region. The game will launch for PS5 this year.

MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls

The new Marvel fighting game will launch for PS5 and PC on August 6, 2026. Characters like Wolverine, Magik, and Danger will be featured in the game.

Housemarque’s New Game: Saros

Housemarque, makers of Returnal, will release their new sci-fi shooter Saros on April 30. The game features eclipse events and dynamic world changes.

New Game Announcements

Project Windless: A dark fantasy action RPG inspired by the Korean novel series The Bird That Drinks Tears. Being developed by Krafton Montreal Studio.

Rev. Noir: Konami’s new JRPG. Set in a world ruled by a deadly phenomenon called lightfall.

Crimson Moon: A gothic action-adventure RPG developed by ProbablyMonsters. Can be played solo or with two players.

007 First Light: IO Interactive’s James Bond origin story. Tells how Bond joined MI6.

Yakoh Shinobi Ops: Four-player online isometric ninja action game. Coming in 2027.

Dead or Alive 6 Last Round: Team Ninja’s fighting game is coming to PS5 on June 25. A free trial version will also be available. Additionally, a new entry in the series is in development.

PlayStation Plus Games

For February, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown, Neva, and Season: A Letter to the Future are being added to PlayStation Plus Game Catalog. Classic games Tekken: Dark Resurrection (March) and Time Crisis (May) will be offered to Premium members.

The Significance of PlayStation State of Play

State of Play February 2026 showed PlayStation starting the year strong. Announcements from both first-party studios and third-party developers promise a rich game catalog for PS5. The return of a major series like God of War, new IPs, and classic series coming back with modern touches show that 2026 will be an exciting year for PlayStation players.

Particularly, the remake of the God of War trilogy and Metal Gear Solid 4 finally coming to modern platforms made a big impact in the industry. Which game from the event was your favorite?

No Man's Sky Remnant Update Adds Gravity Gun, Scavenging Mechanics

G-Man — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:45:54 GMT

No Man's Sky No Man's Sky Remnant NMS Update 6.2

No Man's Sky Remnant Update Adds Gravity Gun, Scavenging Mechanics

G-Man

• February 11, 2026

Hello Games is kicking off the 10th anniversary of its expansive universe, No Man’s Sky, with the highly anticipated Remnant (Version 6.2) update. Following a massive year in 2025 with transformational updates like Worlds Part II and Voyagers, the team is shifting focus to physics-based gameplay and planetary industrialization for their first major drop of 2026.

The Remnant update introduces features that the community has long clamored for, including a “Gravity Gun” reminiscent of the Half-Life series, deep vehicle customization, and an entirely new “Scrapping” gameplay loop.

Physics Overhaul: The Gravitino Coil

The centerpiece of this update is undoubtedly the Gravitino Coil, a new attachment for the Multi-Tool. This module transforms the No Man’s Sky universe into a true physics playground. Players can now magnetize, lift, and launch heavy objects, industrial waste, and even Sentinel drones.

The developers have emphasized that this mechanic isn’t just a toy; it offers tactical advantages in combat and new ways to solve environmental puzzles. Imagine catching a Sentinel drone in mid-air and hurling it into another enemy to neutralize both—that is now a reality.

New Career: Galactic Scavenging & Logistics

Remnant adds a new layer of industrial depth to exploration. Wrecks and scrap piles scattered across planetary surfaces are no longer just set dressing; they are now valuable, harvestable resources.

Waste Processing Plants: These new structures found on planets allow players to recycle collected scrap into valuable materials and rewards.
Volatile Cargo Transport: Among the scrap, you’ll find “volatile waste” like radioactive barrels or explosive crates. Transporting these without detonation will test your driving skills and vehicle stability.

Colossus & Vehicle Customization Overhaul

Exocraft—specifically the heavy-duty Colossus—have received their most comprehensive update to date. They have evolved from simple transport options into fully modular industrial machines.

Players can now outfit their vehicles with:

New Chassis Types: Equip tank tracks, massive off-road wheels, or even spider-like mechanical legs for traversing difficult terrain.
Functional Flatbeds: Install tipping flatbeds for hauling cargo or integrated furnaces to process minerals on the go.
Deep Customization: New paint finishes, cockpit designs, and a functional horn system to greet (or annoy) fellow travelers.

Technical Upgrades & Platform Updates

Hello Games continues to push the technical envelope. The patch notes highlight several key improvements under the hood:

Enhanced Cloud Technology: Cloud lighting, edge stability, and overall performance have been significantly improved, offering breathtaking visuals during sunrise and sunset.
DLSS 4.5 Support: PC users with compatible hardware can now utilize the latest iteration of Deep Learning Super Sampling for better performance and image quality.
Corvettes on Switch: Nintendo Switch players can now construct and decorate the interiors of their own massive corvette-class starships for the first time.

Expedition 21: Remnant Begins

As with every major update, Remnant launches with a limited-time community event. Running for approximately six weeks, this expedition challenges players to form convoys and work together to clean up a planet covered in industrial wreckage.

Travelers who complete the journey will earn exclusive rewards, including a Steampunk-inspired “Heirloom” armor set, unique vehicle parts, and the coveted spider-leg module for the Colossus.

Celebrating 10 years of continuous development, the No Man’s Sky 6.2 Remnant update is available now on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Mac, and Nintendo Switch.

Helldivers 2 Machinery of Oppression Update Released! Here's What's New

G-Man — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 13:30:29 GMT

Helldivers 2 Helldivers 2 update Helldivers 2 Cyborg

Helldivers 2 Machinery of Oppression Update Released! Here's What's New

G-Man

• February 10, 2026

Arrowhead Game Studios has announced the highly anticipated Machinery of Oppression update for Helldivers 2 is now live. Super Earth’s liberty faces a major threat once again, but this time it comes from familiar faces—the Cyborgs.

Players are dropping into the cold, industrial streets of Cyberstan, the bot homeworld, to dismantle the dark alliance forged between the Automatons and Cyborgs.

Old Enemies, New Threats: The Siege of Cyberstan

According to Super Earth intelligence, the Automatons have seized the Star of Peace schematics and are preparing to use this technology for dark purposes under the Cyborg Legion’s command. The Helldivers’ primary mission has been set: lay siege to Cyberstan’s massive factory cities and halt this production.

With this update, players will battle through industrial complexes filled with hazards at every corner. Objectives include destroying mega factories, toppling statues of war criminals, and demoralizing the Cyborg regime.

Meet the Cyborg Subfaction

Three new and deadly enemy types await players in Cyberstan’s streets:

The Agitators: Heavily armored tactical units commanding the Automaton legion in the field. They can control enemy squads and make strategic battlefield decisions.
The Radicals: Units that have pushed their bodies to the limit with cybernetic and bio-enhancements, turning themselves into a mockery of humanity. They rush players from every direction for close-quarters combat.
The Vox Engine: The Voice of the Cyborg Legion. Piloted by a high-ranking officer, this war machine blares propaganda across the battlefield. Armed with dual laser cannons, rockets, and laser gatlings, it’s designed to annihilate anyone trying to silence its message.

Critical Mechanic: Global Reinforcement Limits

The Machinery of Oppression update introduces a new mechanic that will profoundly impact the game’s strategic structure: Global Reinforcement Limits.

Since sending reinforcements to Cyberstan poses a great risk to Super Earth, resources are no longer unlimited. Throughout the “Battle for Cyberstan,” every Helldiver death will be deducted from a global counter. If the Galactic Reinforcement Counter reaches zero, the battle will be lost.

This mechanic pushes players to stay alive, heal teammates, and use defensive stratagems more strategically. Every life now directly affects the fate of the galactic war.

New Equipment and War Support

As the battle intensifies, Super Earth command has increased its support. Players can utilize the Siege Breakers Warbond, featuring the defensive G/SH-39 Shield. Additionally, the new War Horses armor set is now available in the Superstore.

Helldivers 2’s new update is now live.

Discord Introduces Mandatory Age Verification!

Nomad — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 14:35:07 GMT

discord discord age verification discord face scan

Discord Introduces Mandatory Age Verification!

Nomad

• February 9, 2026

Popular communication platform Discord has announced it will globally implement a controversial age verification system in March under the guise of protecting children, effectively eliminating user anonymity. The platform will request face scans or ID documents from users in the name of “security.”

Mandatory Age Verification System Coming

Discord announced today that starting in early March, it will globally implement a system called “teen-by-default settings” for all new and existing users. However, examining the system’s details reveals this is far more than an innocent security measure.

Under the new system, users will be required to go through a mandatory age verification process to change certain settings, access age-restricted channels, or receive certain message requests. Discord offers users two options: facial age estimation through face scanning or submitting ID documents.

Discord claims the system is “privacy-focused” and provides these guarantees:

Face scan videos will not leave the device
ID documents will be deleted immediately in most cases
Age verification status will not be visible to other users

However, these promises don’t change the fact that the platform is requesting biometric data or official ID documents from users. Even face scanning algorithms that “don’t leave the device” process users’ biometric data and send the results to Discord. The claim that ID documents will be “deleted immediately” obscures the fact that documents are first sent to third-party verification companies.

Discord announced this radical change citing youth safety as justification. But the truth is, teaching families how to properly use the internet and platforms would be a far more effective solution than censorship and mandatory identity verification to protect children.

The platform restricts access to features like “content filters,” “age-gated spaces,” and “message requests” to adults who have completed age verification. In essence, it’s forcing all users to share their identity to use the platform’s full features.

A Blow to Anonymity and Freedom of Expression

Discord’s decision represents a serious blow to user anonymity, which has been one of the platform’s core values since its founding. The platform is now preparing to expand this system, which it tested last year in the United Kingdom and Australia, worldwide. While Discord’s Head of Product Policy Savannah Badalich states “We design with teen safety as a core principle,” she’s actually normalizing the compromise of all users’ privacy.

Education or Control?

Discord also announced it will establish a “Teen Council” consisting of 13-17 year olds. But the real question is: If youth safety is truly the priority, why aren’t families being educated on proper platform use? Why is censorship and mandatory identity verification prioritized over parent education?

The truth is that child protection rhetoric has become a classic excuse for digital platforms to gain more control over their users. Discord’s new system is nothing more than an attempt to collect personal data and eliminate user anonymity under the guise of security.

The mandatory age verification system starting in March will leave millions of Discord users in a dilemma: share their identity or be deprived of the platform’s essential features.

How to Protect Your Child on Steam? 2026 Parental Controls Guide [Step-by-Step]

Nomad — Sat, 07 Feb 2026 07:58:10 GMT

steam parental controls steam family view steam families

How to Protect Your Child on Steam? 2026 Parental Controls Guide [Step-by-Step]

Nomad

• February 7, 2026

The digital gaming world is becoming an increasingly important part of children’s lives. Steam, as the world’s largest PC gaming platform, has been offering families the tools to safely and securely manage their children’s gaming experiences for years. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to use Steam’s family features and how to manage your children’s gaming activities step by step.

What is Steam Families?

Steam Families is a comprehensive system launched in 2024 that replaced the older “Family Sharing” and “Family View” features. This new feature offers families the following capabilities:

Game Sharing: Family members can share their game libraries with each other
Parental Controls: Control which games children can access and how long they can play
Safe Purchasing: Children’s game purchase requests require parental approval
Activity Tracking: Monitor children’s gaming activities even from mobile devices

Getting Started: First Steps

1. Set Up Your Steam Family

To start using Steam Families features:

Open your Steam client or log into the Steam website
Go to the Settings menu
Select the Family tab from the left menu
Click the Create a Family button
Follow the wizard to create your family

Important: A maximum of 6 people (including yourself) can join a Steam family. Remember that this system is designed for close family members only.

2. Invite Family Members

After creating your family:

You can invite up to 5 family members
You can assign each member either Adult or Child role
You can send invitations from the Steam client, mobile app, or web browser

3. Assign Roles Correctly

Adult Role:

Access to all control tools
Authority to edit other members’ settings
Right to approve/reject purchase requests

Child Role:

Limited access
Subject to parental controls
Access to specific games and features

Parental Control Features

Steam Families provides parents with powerful tools to manage their children’s gaming experiences. Here’s how to use these tools:

1. Game Access Restrictions

Why It’s Important:Not every game is suitable for every age group. You can protect your children from games containing violence, blood, sexual content, or inappropriate language.

How to Do It:

Go to Settings > Family tab
Select the child account
Choose your desired option from the Game Access section:
- Show all games
- Filter by age rating
- Only show games I choose (safest option)

Practical Tip:Start by using the “Only games I choose” option to create a small game list. You can expand this list as your child’s experience and age increase.

2. Playtime Limits

For Healthy Gaming Habits:Research shows that excessive screen time can negatively affect children’s physical and mental health. Steam Families helps you with this.

Setting Daily Time Limits:

Go to the child account settings
Find the Playtime section
Set daily time limits (e.g., 1 hour on weekdays, 2 hours on weekends)

Weekly Time Limits:

You can set weekly total time for a more flexible approach
Your child can distribute this time as they wish

Gaming Hours:

You can allow gaming only during specific hours
Example: Only between 4:00 PM-7:00 PM or weekends only

3. Store, Community, and Chat Restrictions

Creating a Safe Online Environment:

Store Access:

You can completely disable children’s access to the Steam store
Or allow them to see only games in certain age categories
This prevents exposure to games with inappropriate content

Community Features:

Steam community forums can contain unmoderated content
You can restrict children’s access to community pages
This feature protects from unwanted interactions

Chat Control:

You can completely disable friend chat
Or allow them to chat only with people you approve
You can prevent participation in group chats

Our Recommendation:We recommend disabling all community features for young children (ages 6-10). For ages 11-14, limited access may be appropriate, and for 15+, controlled access.

4. Activity Tracking and Reporting

What Are They Playing and For How Long?

Steam Families allows you to see your child’s gaming activities in detail:

Playtime Reports:

Daily, weekly, and monthly reports
Which games they played and for how long
Most time-consuming games

Access:

From Steam client
Through mobile app (even when not at home)
From web browser

Practical Use:By regularly checking these reports, you can discuss healthy gaming habits with your child. If they’re spending too much time on a particular game, you can understand why and offer alternatives.

5. Purchase Management

Keep Control in Your Hands:

In the traditional method, you had to give your child your credit card or constantly buy gift cards to purchase games. Steam Families makes this process much easier and safer.

How It Works:

Your child adds the desired game to cart
Uses the “Request Payment from Parent” option
You receive a notification via mobile app or email
You can review and approve or reject the game
When approved, payment is made from your account and the game is added to your child’s account

Advantages:

No need to share your credit card information
You have a chance to evaluate the game before each purchase
Your child cannot buy games without your permission
Budget control remains in your hands

Tip:Set a weekly/monthly game budget with your child. This both sets financial limits and teaches budget management to your child.

6. Account Security and Recovery

Forgot My Password Problem:

Children sometimes forget their Steam account passwords. Steam Families gives parents the authority to recover child accounts.

Account Recovery:

No need to panic when your child forgets their password
You can access the child account from your parent account
You can perform password reset
You can change the account email

Security Recommendations:

Keep your child’s account password in a safe place
Enable two-factor authentication
Teach your child to create strong passwords

One of the most useful features of Steam Families is game sharing. Here’s what you need to know:

Basic Rules

Automatic Sharing: When you join a family, shareable games in your library automatically become available to other members
Non-Shareable Games: Some games may not be shareable due to developer preferences (usually games requiring third-party accounts)
Multiple Copies: If there are multiple copies of the same game, that many people can play at once

Practical Example

Let’s say you have a 4-person family:

1 copy of Portal 2
1 copy of Half-Life

Scenario 1: One person can play Portal 2, another can play Half-Life ✅

Scenario 2: Two people want to play Portal 2 at the same time ❌

Solution: Someone in the family must purchase a second copy of the game
After that, two people can play Portal 2 simultaneously ✅

Personal Progress

When playing a shared game:

You create your own save files
You earn your own Steam achievements
You can access Steam Workshop content
Your progress belongs only to you and doesn’t affect other family members

Remote Management with Mobile App

The Steam mobile app provides parents with complete control even at work, on the road, or on vacation.

What Can You Do?

Real-Time Control:

See what your child is playing right now
Check remaining playtime
Change limits if necessary

Purchase Approvals:

Game requests from your child come via instant mobile notification
Review and approve/reject
Make payments from anywhere

Emergency Intervention:

You can disable game access in an emergency
You can update limits
You can give extra time

Download the Mobile App

Download the Steam mobile app from the App Store for iOS or Google Play Store for Android
Log in with your account
Go to Family > Parental Controls section

Security and Privacy Tips

Protect Your Child’s Data

Personal Information:

Be careful not to use your child’s real name
Enter age information correctly (for Steam’s content filters to work properly)
Keep the profile private

Communication Security:

Teach your child not to talk to strangers
Tell them not to share personal information (address, school, phone)
Ask them to report suspicious situations to you

Two-Factor Authentication

Be sure to enable it on both your own and your child’s account:

Settings > Account > Manage My Account
Turn on Steam Guard
Activate mobile authenticator
Store backup codes in a safe place

Steam Families provides modern parents with powerful tools to manage their children’s digital gaming experiences. However, remember that these tools are only assistants—what truly matters is the trust, communication, and mutual understanding between you and your child.

Key Principles for Successful Digital Parenting:

Stay Informed: Follow the games, platforms, and trends your child plays
Communicate: Create open, non-judgmental dialogues
Set Boundaries: Establish clear, consistent rules
Be Flexible: Every child is different; personalize your approach
Be a Role Model: Balance your own screen use too
Build Trust: Your child should be able to bring problems to you
Take a Balanced Approach: Games aren’t bad; excess is harmful

When you use Steam Families correctly, your child can benefit from the social, creative, and educational advantages of games in a safe environment. At the same time, you can guide their digital journey with peace of mind. Steam has had very advanced features on this subject for years.

Horizon Hunters Gathering Announced: 3-Player Co-op, Cross-Play & Closed Beta This February

Nomad — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 16:15:19 GMT

horizon hunters gathering horizon new game guerrilla games new game

Horizon Hunters Gathering Announced: 3-Player Co-op, Cross-Play & Closed Beta This February

Nomad

• February 5, 2026

Horizon Hunters Gathering Announced: Guerrilla’s New Co-op Action Game

Guerrilla Games has officially announced Horizon Hunters Gathering, a new game set in the Horizon universe. Developed for PlayStation 5 and PC, this co-op action game invites players to team up and battle deadly machines together.

Three-Player Tactical Co-op Experience

Horizon Hunters Gathering brings three players together as Hunters to protect a world under threat from machines. The game preserves the tactical precision of the Horizon series while emphasizing team play dynamics. Each Hunter features distinct melee or ranged combat styles and weapon options. In essence, it’s a live service game.

The game features a rogue-lite build system. Players can select Hunter roles to create combinations that suit their playstyle and team composition.

Two Different Game Modes

Guerrilla has revealed the game’s two main modes:

Machine Incursion: High-intensity missions where waves of machines pour out from underground gateways, culminating in a formidable boss fight.

Cauldron Descent: A longer, multi-stage experience with ever-changing rooms. Players face both brutal machine encounters and hidden doors that promise power and rewards for prepared teams.

Story and World

Horizon Hunters Gathering is fully canon to the Horizon universe. The game will feature an ongoing narrative beyond launch, introducing new mysteries, characters, and threats. While Guerrilla hasn’t shared story details yet, they confirm that each Hunter will have their own motivations and personal struggles.

Between missions, players return to “Hunters Gathering,” a vibrant social hub. In this lively hub area, players can:

Customize their Hunters
Visit vendors
Upgrade equipment
Team up for the next adventure

Cross-Play and Cross-Progression Support

The game offers cross-play support between PlayStation 5 and PC. When logged in with the same PlayStation account, cross-progression is also available. Sony got burned by this situation with Helldivers 2. Will we see something similar here?

Closed Playtest Begins Late February

Horizon Hunters Gathering’s first small-scale closed playtest begins at the end of February. Registration for PS5 and PC playtests is available through the PlayStation Beta Program. Guerrilla Games has stated they will provide regular development updates and playtest announcements in the coming months.

12 New Games Coming to Xbox Game Pass! High On Life 2, Kingdom Come Deliverance...

G-Man — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 14:18:38 GMT

xbox game pass february 2026 xbox game pass new games high on life 2

12 New Games Coming to Xbox Game Pass! High On Life 2, Kingdom Come Deliverance...

G-Man

• February 3, 2026

Microsoft has officially announced the new games coming to Xbox Game Pass library for February 2026. Following the Developer_Direct presentation held at the beginning of the year, the Xbox team continues its momentum with a strong lineup heavily featuring AAA titles in the first half of February.

This month’s highlights include High on Life 2, the sequel to the FPS game that made a big splash upon its release, Ubisoft’s open-world action game Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, and Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, featuring Goro Majima’s pirate adventure. Additionally, Avowed from Obsidian Entertainment is also becoming accessible for Game Pass Premium members.

Here’s the complete list and details of games being added to PC, Console, and Cloud platforms throughout February:

Available Today

Two major titles have been made available to subscribers as of now, along with the February announcement.

Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii

(Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC) - Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass

Goro Majima, the beloved character from the Yakuza series, finds himself on the open seas with no memory. In this modern pirate adventure where a former Yakuza becomes a new pirate captain in search of legendary treasure, players can expect over-the-top action sequences taking place both on land and at sea.

Final Fantasy II

(Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) - Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass

The story of four youths orphaned in the war between the Palamecian Empire and the rebel army has been added to the library in its remastered version.

Coming Soon

February 5

Madden NFL 26 (Cloud, Console, and PC): The series returns with innovations in Franchise and Superstar modes for American football enthusiasts. Those who log in by March 6 can claim the “Supercharge Pack” reward.
Paw Patrol Rescue Wheels: Championship (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): A family-friendly racing game set in Adventure Bay and beyond, offering local co-op support.

February 10

Relooted (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC): An “African futurist” themed heist game where you attempt to reclaim real African artifacts from Western museums. Build your crew, plan your escape route, and rescue the artifacts.

February 12

BlazBlue Entropy Effect X (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC): A roguelite action game set in the BlazBlue universe, featuring stylish 2D visuals and fast-paced combat mechanics.
Starsand Island (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC): A pastoral life simulation. A peaceful experience built around fishing, spending time with capybaras, and solving the island’s mysteries.
Roadside Research (Game Preview) (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC): A chaotic simulation where you manage aliens who’ve landed on Earth to run a gas station. You need to scan humans and gather data without getting caught by government officials.

February 13

High on Life 2 (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC): Available on Game Pass from day one. In this sequel featuring the return of talking guns, an intergalactic conspiracy threatens humanity’s fate. A chaotic adventure set on exotic planets to save the human race.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance (Cloud, Console, and PC): A story-driven realistic medieval RPG experience set in the Holy Roman Empire. Witness Henry’s story as he seeks revenge for his family.

February 17

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC): A first-person action-adventure game set in the never-before-seen Western Frontier of Pandora. As a Na’vi trained by the human militaristic corporation RDA, you must rediscover your roots and unite the clans to protect Pandora. The game also comes with a new third-person camera update.
Avowed (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC) - Game Pass Premium: A first-person fantasy action RPG from Obsidian Entertainment set in Eora, the Pillars of Eternity universe. Get ready to unravel the mysteries of the Living Lands.

Which game are you most excited about?

Helldivers 2 Finally Gets Tanks! Automaton Homeworld Arrives with 6.0.0 Update

G-Man — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 10:55:00 GMT

Helldivers 2 Helldivers 2 update Helldivers 2 patch notes

Helldivers 2 Finally Gets Tanks! Automaton Homeworld Arrives with 6.0.0 Update

G-Man

• February 3, 2026

Arrowhead Game Studios has officially released the highly anticipated major update for Helldivers 2. The new story arc begins with the Automaton Collective’s theft of Super Earth’s “Star of Peace” project schematics, calling players to march toward the gates of Cyberstan.

This update isn’t just about new content—it brings fundamental changes to the game’s melee combat dynamics and difficulty levels. Here are the standout details of this massive update.

The New Ruler of the Battlefield: Bastion Tank

With the message from High Command, the Bastion Tank, developed to counter the Automaton threat, has been officially deployed. Marketed as a “defensive tool of peace,” this massive armored vehicle is designed to crush entrenched enemies. While the Bastion Tank offers unmatched firepower and defensive capabilities, effective use requires the squad to work in perfect coordination.

New Warbond: Siegebreakers

The update also introduces the new Premium Warbond called Siegebreakers. You can find detailed information about the Warbond in our article here.

Gameplay and Balancing Changes

The development team has particularly focused on melee combat mechanics in this patch. The main goal of these changes is to reduce the necessity of armor passives while highlighting the inherent strength of weapons.

Melee Combat Revision: All melee weapon damage has been increased. In return, the bonuses provided by armor passives that boost melee damage (like Peak Physique) have been reduced. This makes armor selection less mandatory while preserving or even increasing total damage potential in some combinations. Base melee attacks have also been strengthened by 50%.
Weapon Controls: The “Sway” rate on SMGs and pistols has been reduced, allowing these weapons to achieve aiming stability similar to other weapon classes.
Key Bindings: Weapon function modes (firing mode, flashlight, etc.) are now more consistent. Programmable ammunition, firing type, and safe mode options have been unified under the “Left” directional input.

Difficulty Level and AI Updates

In missions at difficulty level 9 and above, intensity has been increased, especially on the Automaton front. With improvements to enemy AI, bots will now track targets much more accurately even in crowded battles. Additionally, “Durable” damage types have been rebalanced to be more effective against Helldiver vehicles.

SH-20 Ballistic Shield Backpack: Cooldown reduced from 300 to 240 seconds
Orbital Smoke Strike: Cooldown reduced from 100 to 75 seconds
G-7 Pineapple and G-31 Arc grenade carrying capacity increased
Automaton units now target more accurately in crowded situations
Rocket enemies are more lethal against vehicles and Exosuits
Illuminate Overseer attacks create greater stagger effects
Terminid “Dragon Roach” flame attack direct damage reduced

Additionally, Commando Operations can now be conducted on all Automaton-controlled planets. These missions will frequently be available alongside regular peacekeeping operations.

Technical Improvements and Bug Fixes

A new “Hang Detection” system has been integrated to address the freezing issues PC players frequently encounter. If the game becomes unresponsive for more than 20 seconds, the system will automatically generate a crash dump to help identify the source of the problem.

Additionally:

Victory Poses and Emotes can now be used interchangeably, with some exceptions.
Chinese voice-over option has been added to the game. Wish Turkish was added too.
Performance optimizations made for fog density and explosion effects.

Helldivers 2’s 6.0.0 update is now available as approximately a 5GB update for Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox.

New The Witcher Game Announced But It's Not What You Expected!

G-Man — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 21:38:49 GMT

Reigns The Witcher Reigns The Witcher release date The Witcher new game

New The Witcher Game Announced But It's Not What You Expected!

G-Man

• January 27, 2026

Reigns: The Witcher Launches February 25th

The Witcher universe meets the iconic “swipe left-swipe right” mechanics of the Reigns series. Reigns: The Witcher, where you’ll decide Geralt’s fate, is preparing to meet players next month. Nerial and Devolver Digital have officially announced Reigns: The Witcher, the fruit of their surprise collaboration with CD PROJEKT RED. This narrative-driven game bringing a brand-new perspective to Geralt of Rivia’s adventures will launch on February 25, 2026 for PC, Mac, and mobile platforms.

Geralt’s Story Through Dandelion’s Eyes

Reigns: The Witcher blends the decision-making mechanics we’re familiar with from previous games in the series with The Witcher’s rich universe. But this time, we’re hearing the story from the mouth of Geralt’s closest friend and the Continent’s most famous bard, Dandelion (Jaskier).

Players will relive adventures from The Witcher games in the stories told by Dandelion. You’ll respond to the demands of villagers, sorceresses, and kings by swiping cards left or right; changing the course of the story with each choice.

Gameplay and Features

Every decision made in the game changes the course of events in the universe. Should you advise a villager against hunting a monster, or support their risky decision? Few choices have clear consequences, and players must choose wisely to keep both the story and Geralt alive.

Throughout the game, you’ll encounter familiar characters like Yennefer of Vengerberg, Triss Merigold, and Vesemir, while developing Dandelion’s bard career to unlock new storylines, characters, and inspirations.

Geralt’s monster hunting adventures also appear in the form of mini-games. You’ll enrich the gameplay experience by battling ghouls, rotfiends, and other creatures through mini-games.

Game’s Key Features

Familiar Faces: Iconic characters like Yennefer of Vengerberg, Triss Merigold, and Vesemir will accompany you in Dandelion’s stories.
Thousands of Story Combinations: The decisions you make will have far-reaching consequences across the Continent. Save a villager from a monster, or avoid risking your own life? The choice is yours.
Monster Hunting: Face ghouls, rotfiends, and other creatures with combat mini-games added to the Reigns formula.
The Bard’s Career: You won’t just keep Geralt alive, you’ll also try to elevate Dandelion’s bard career to its peak and write a legendary epic.

Release Date and Platform Information

Reigns: The Witcher will be released on February 25, 2026 for PC, Mac, iOS, and Android platforms. The game can currently be wishlisted on Steam and pre-registered on mobile platforms.

Helldivers 2 Getting Breaching Hammer and Throwable Shield!

Nomad — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 14:48:59 GMT

helldivers 2 helldivers 2 update helldivers 2 warbond

Helldivers 2 Getting Breaching Hammer and Throwable Shield!

Nomad

• January 27, 2026

Arrowhead Game Studios will release Siege Breakers, the new premium Warbond content for Helldivers 2, on February 3rd. Coming just five days after the Redacted Regiment Warbond, this surprise announcement brings siege-themed powerful weapons, armor, and stratagems to the game.

An Arsenal That Breaks Through Barriers

Siege Breakers lives up to its name with a loadout designed to shatter defenses. The star of the pack is undoubtedly the LAS-16 Trident, a beloved weapon returning from the original Helldivers in an upgraded form. Instead of the original’s three beams, this “laser shotgun” now fires six beams, designed to melt through enemy hordes and obstacles.

Other standout equipment coming with the Warbond includes:

CQC-20 Breaching Hammer (Stratagem): A sledgehammer-style Stratagem for close combat enthusiasts. It doesn’t just pack a punch—it can be fitted with explosive charges on its head to demolish enemy defenses (or the enemies themselves).
GL-28 Belt-Fed Grenade Launcher: Unlike existing grenade launchers, this belt-fed weapon allows you to rain down continuous explosive fire and maintain suppressive bombardment.
EAT-411 Leveller: A single-shot, high-yield missile launcher. Designed specifically for those who want to “finish the job in one shot” and for taking down heavily armored targets.
G/SH-39 Shield: A throwable shield generator. It creates a spherical energy barrier where you deploy it, giving you your own cover in open terrain.

Armor and New Passive: “Supplementary Adrenaline”

On the defensive side, the SA-8 Ram (Heavy Armor) is being added for those who want to feel like a tank, along with the SA-7 Headfirst (Medium Armor) for players seeking more mobility.

The most significant feature of these armors is the new passive ability they bring: Supplementary Adrenaline. This ability allows players to regain stamina when taking damage, transforming you into an unstoppable force that gets fiercer with each hit rather than wearing down.

Accompanying capes and player cards include the tattered Rags of the Fashionable cape and the saw-toothed Wedgeful Tricorn.

Is the Cyborg Threat Coming?

Perhaps the most exciting part of the announcement trailer wasn’t the new weapons, but the brief moment at the end showing a section marked “CONFIDENTIAL”.

As you may recall, the update notes for the previous Warbond released on January 22nd hinted at a “major update” coming in February. Leaks within the community and data mined from game files have long suggested that the Cyborg faction (or the creators of the Automatons) will finally make their debut.

Helldivers 2 Siege Breakers Warbond launches on February 3rd.

Hytale Update 2 Released! Full Patch Notes, Necromancy & Mining Overhaul

G-Man — Sat, 24 Jan 2026 11:18:27 GMT

Hytale Hytale Update 2 Hytale Patch Notes

Hytale Update 2 Released! Full Patch Notes, Necromancy & Mining Overhaul

G-Man

• January 24, 2026

The Hytale development team has officially released the massive Update 2 package as of January 24, 2026, bringing foundational changes to both the technical infrastructure and core gameplay mechanics. This update introduces a wide range of features, from deep cosmetic customization and a complete mining progression overhaul to refined farming dynamics and essential server management tools.

Here is the detailed breakdown of everything new in Hytale Update 2.

Cosmetics & Character Customization

Focusing on player expression, the team has expanded the avatar customization suite. A standout feature, particularly for the Roleplay (RP) and PvP communities, is the new Armor Visibility toggle.

Armor Hiding Options: Players can now toggle the visibility of specific equipment slots, such as helmets or chest plates, directly from the character panel. Server hosts retain control to enforce or disable this feature to maintain server balance or immersion.
New Accessories: The avatar creator now includes the “Bandit Mask,” various blindfolds, and new “Vampire” and “Orc” mouth types.
Visual Overhauls: Hairstyles like “Single Side Pigtail,” “Fighter Buns,” and “Smart Elven” have received visual updates. Additionally, cape animations while running have been smoothed out for better fluidity.

Gameplay & Balance Changes

The core of this update lies in the rebalancing of the game’s progression system. Strategic depth has been significantly increased, particularly in mining and combat mechanics.

Mining and The “Tier” System

Pickaxe tiers are now far more critical to gameplay progression.

Adamantite Requirement: Mining Adamantite ore now strictly requires at least a Thorium or Cobalt pickaxe.
Damage Normalization: Lower-tier pickaxes now deal significantly less damage to high-tier ore blocks. Upgrading to a quality pickaxe drastically reduces the time required to break blocks.

New Abilities & Creatures

Necromancy: A new item has been added that allows players to raise skeletal minions from bone piles. This item has a chance to drop from the massive Praetorian Skeleton.
NPC Updates: Animals such as Bison, Boar, Cow, and Horse now drop “Medium Hide” instead of “Light Hide.”
Magma Toad: The tongue attack damage has been reduced, but the creature has gained a new “Headbutt” ability to keep players on their toes.

Farming & World Generation (WorldGen)

Farming mechanics have been refined to help players manage their crops more effectively. Safeguards have been introduced to prevent accidental breakage of “Eternal” crops.

Hoe Balancing: Crafting costs and unlock tiers for Hoes have been adjusted. Copper Hoes are now Tier 2, Iron Hoes are Tier 4, and Thorium Hoes have been added at Tier 6.
Tilled Soil: The decay time for tilled soil has been extended (lasting 1.2 - 1.5 in-game days).
Renewable Resources: Petals are now craftable under the textiles category, making them a fully renewable resource.

WorldGen V2 & Ore Distribution

Documentation for WorldGen V2 has been made available for modders. Furthermore, ore distribution across all zones has been refactored.

Important Note: To experience the new ore distribution (especially the increased density in the Devastated Lands underground), you must explore new, previously unloaded chunks in your existing worlds.

Interface (UI) & User Experience

Quality-of-life improvements have been implemented to streamline in-game management:

FPS Counter: A built-in FPS overlay has been added to the settings menu (General > User Interface).
Inventory Shortcuts: Quick actions (Put All, Sort, etc.) are now bound to Q, E, R, and T keys for faster inventory management.
Accessibility: An “Ophidiophobia” mode has been added for players with a fear of snakes, transforming snake models into harmless “Hatworms.”

Server Management & Technical Details

For Hytale server owners, the new Auto-Update System is a game-changer.

UpdateModule: A new core plugin integrated into the boot process allows servers to check for updates, notify players, and apply patches in stages.
Configuration: The UpdateConfig file allows admins to set update intervals, backup options, and auto-apply modes.
New Commands: Admins can now manage updates directly from within the game using the /update command.

The update also fixes shadow rendering glitches, smoothes out weather transitions, and resolves issues with player markers on the map.

Stay tuned for more updates from the world of Hytale.

First Gameplay Footage from the New Fable Game Arrives!

G-Man — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 19:00:20 GMT

Fable Fable 4 Fable release date

First Gameplay Footage from the New Fable Game Arrives!

G-Man

• January 22, 2026

Long-awaited and one of the most legendary series in the Xbox world, Fable was finally shown in depth at the Developer_Direct event held today. Developed by Playground Games (the team we know from the Forza Horizon series), this new game aims to offer a modern open-world action-RPG experience while remaining faithful to the roots of the series.

We have gathered the most critical details for fans of the game from the presentation and the interview held with Fable GM and Game Director Ralph Fulton after the event. Here is everything you need to know about Fable.

When and on Which Platforms is it Coming?

Fable will meet players this autumn. Perhaps the most surprising part of the announcement was the variety of platforms. The game will be released for Xbox Series X/S, PC, Xbox Cloud, Steam, and the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate library, as well as PlayStation 5. It was also confirmed that the game will be an Xbox Play Anywhere title.

A Completely New Beginning

In Ralph Fulton’s words, this game is a true “new beginning” for the series. Nearly two generations have passed in the video game world since the original trilogy. Playground Games preferred to build their own Albion and tell a completely new story instead of sticking to the original timeline or characters.

Fulton summarizes this situation as follows: “It would be pointless to try and ape the original trilogy. This is not a Lionhead game, this is a Playground game.”

But don’t worry; the basic building blocks that make up the essence of the series, such as “British humor,” the fairytale atmosphere, and the consequences of choices, are preserved.

“Not Fantasy, Fairytale”

The development team determined the tone of the game based on an old note found in the Lionhead archives: “Fable is Fairytale, not Fantasy.”

Unlike geopolitical, serious, and grandiose “Fantasy” works like Skyrim or Game of Thrones; Fable focuses on more intimate, smaller but personal stories where magic touches the lives of ordinary people. This vision permeates every corner of the game, from its art style to world-building.

Story: How Does the Hero’s Journey Begin?

In keeping with classic Fable tradition, you start the game as a child. After the moment your heroic powers emerge, a time jump occurs, and you embark on an adventure as an adult in the village of Briar Hill.

The event that triggers the story is quite dramatic: A mysterious stranger turns your grandmother and everyone in the village where you grew up into stone. You set out to solve this event and save your village. However, there is no “ticking time bomb” mechanic in the game rushing you. If you wish, you can go to the northernmost part of Albion, get married, find a job, and settle down; the main story will be waiting for you.

Combat System: “Style-Weaving”

The original game’s trinity of “Strength, Skill, and Will” has evolved into a fluid system called “style-weaving” in the new game.

Fluidity: You will be able to throw a fireball or shoot an arrow at the same time as swinging a sword, without even a single frame of delay.
Tactical Depth: Enemy groups will force you to use your different abilities (melee, ranged, and magic) tactically for crowd control.
Interaction: “Chaotic” and funny moments, such as enemies opening friendly fire on each other, will be a natural part of the combat.

Morality System: “Chicken Chaser” Returns

The morality system, one of the first things that comes to mind when Fable is mentioned, has been reinterpreted for the modern age. There is no longer an “objective good” or “objective evil” bar. Instead, there is a Reputation system.

Your actions only have meaning when someone sees you.

If you are seen kicking a chicken, you start to be known as a “Chicken Chaser” in that settlement.
Each town has a “word cloud” formed about you. While you are seen as a hero in one village, you might be known as a thief in another.
These reputations affect how people address you, romantic relationships, and even prices in shops.

If you are not satisfied with your reputation, you can bribe the Town Crier to shout new (and better) things about you.

A Living Population

Playground Games has filled Albion with over 1,000 unique NPCs. This “Living Population” is not just decoration; each one has a home, a job, a routine, and a personality. The developers even had to calculate the walking distances required for NPCs to commute to work.

The Office Style Humor

The game’s tone of humor is inspired by British comedies of the last 20 years (especially The Office, Peep Show, The IT Crowd). The “documentary/interview” style narration we saw in the trailers is not just for promotion; it is a storytelling tool used throughout the game. Characters turning to the camera to give those famous “looks” or speaking to the camera between dialogues reinforces Fable’s unique absurdity.

Fable is coming out this autumn.

First Details on Forza Horizon 6 Arrive! Release Date Revealed

G-Man — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:23:44 GMT

Forza Horizon 6 FH6 Playground Games

First Details on Forza Horizon 6 Arrive! Release Date Revealed

G-Man

• January 22, 2026

Playground Games detailed the highly anticipated new entry in the series, Forza Horizon 6, at today’s Developer_Direct event. Japan, which has been at the top of players’ wish lists for years, has been confirmed as the host for the new game. The developers emphasize that the game will not just be a racing simulation, but also an exploration experience that pays homage to Japanese culture.

The game will launch on May 19, 2026, for Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Game Pass Ultimate subscribers. Additionally, in a first for the series, it was announced that a PlayStation 5 version will be released later in 2026.

Starting Not as a Superstar, But as a “Tourist”

The career mode, which in previous games began with the player already being a recognized racer or the star of the festival, undergoes a radical change in Forza Horizon 6. This time, players will take on the role of a “tourist” arriving in Japan. Starting as a fan with a dream of attending the Horizon Festival, the feeling of climbing from zero to the top will be crafted much more strongly.

The game’s Design Director, Torben Ellert, expresses this change with these words: “Ultimately, so many of us love that idea of going to a place that you don’t know. You come to Japan just as a fan, with a dream of being part of the festival. We wanted you to feel like someone who just got off the plane, accompanied by a few friends who share this dream.”

The Map of Japan and “Condensed Reality”

Forza Horizon 6 offers a wide range of environments, from the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to rural mountain roads. However, when designing the map, the team chose to reflect the “essence” of the country rather than copying Japan mile for mile. Tokyo’s iconic Shibuya crossing, massive dockland areas, suburbs, and mountain passes have been reinterpreted to suit the game’s driving dynamics.

Tokyo’s city center, in particular, is described as the area with the densest vertical architecture and detail level the series has seen to date. The contrast between Brutalist architecture and narrow streets creates distinct playgrounds for both drift enthusiasts and speed lovers.

New Features: “The Estate” and The Collection Journal

The progression system in the game has also evolved according to Japanese culture. A new system called “The Collection Journal” takes inspiration from Japan’s famous “stamp collecting” culture. Players will be able to level up in the festival by recording the places they discover, the photos they take, and their memories in this journal.

In addition to this, a new property system called “The Estate” has been introduced. Inspired by the “Akiya” culture in Japan (rural houses abandoned by their owners), players will take over an old property belonging to the family of a character named Mei. This area will function as a massive sandbox space where players can build whatever they want, construct tracks, or customize as they please.

Car Roster and Cover Stars

Forza Horizon 6 will arrive with a massive garage of approximately 550 cars on launch day. The game’s cover stars, determined through a collaboration with Toyota, are the 2025 GR GT Prototype and the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser.

The GR GT Prototype, in particular, will be given to users for a short time during the game’s opening sequence (Initial Experience), after which the player will need to climb the career ladder to own this vehicle again.

To strengthen the social aspect of the game, a Car Meets feature inspired by real-life “Daikoku” gatherings has been added. Located at three different points on the map (The Festival area, The Alps, and Daikoku), these areas will allow players to show off their cars, examine other players’ designs, and make instant car purchases.

Release Date and Editions

Forza Horizon 6 will take its place on Xbox and PC platforms on May 19, 2026. Premium Edition owners will have access to Early Access starting May 15. The PlayStation 5 version of the game will hit the shelves before the end of 2026.

Helldivers 2: Redacted Regiment Warbond & Stealth Update Live Now

G-Man — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 10:53:59 GMT

Helldivers 2 Helldivers 2 system requirements Redacted Regiment Warbond

Helldivers 2: Redacted Regiment Warbond & Stealth Update Live Now

G-Man

• January 22, 2026

Helldivers 2 Update: Redacted Regiment Warbond and Stealth-Focused Patch 5.0.2 Are Live

The wait is finally over for Helldivers 2 operatives. Following a brief tactical delay, the Redacted Regiment Warbond has officially dropped alongside the “Into the Unjust” update (Patch 5.0.2). This isn’t just a content drop; it’s a fundamental shift in how we spread Managed Democracy, introducing a complete overhaul of stealth mechanics and the high-stakes “Commando” missions that force players behind enemy lines.

Silent and Deadly: Stealth Mechanics Overhauled

Arrowhead Game Studios has made it clear: Democracy doesn’t always need to shout. The 5.0.2 patch implements significant improvements to stealth dynamics, making suppressed weapons a viable—and lethal—option for the first time in a meaningful way.

Through technical adjustments, the noise radius of firing suppressed weapons has been reduced by approximately 50%.

This change allows Helldiver squads to infiltrate enemy territory with significantly less risk of triggering a bot drop or bug breach. Furthermore, the detection logic for heavy hitters like Devastators, Berserkers, and Chargers has been tweaked. Their “threat perception” range when shots are fired near them (but miss) has been lowered, allowing for tighter tactical control during engagements.

New Mission Type: Commando Missions

One of the update’s headline features is the introduction of Commando Missions. These operations send Helldivers deep into hostile territory where Super Earth lacks air superiority, making standard Destroyer support a risky business.

Here is what makes Commando missions different:

Limited Support: Reinforcements and stratagems aren’t available on demand in the traditional sense. They must be pre-planned and deployed strategically.
Strategic Depth: Run-and-gun tactics will likely result in failure. Players must prioritize stealth, coordination, and tactical control over overwhelming firepower.

These missions went live alongside the Warbond today (January 22) at 13:00 GMT / 14:00 CET.

Important Storage Update for PC Players

After weeks of stress testing and community feedback, Arrowhead has pulled the trigger on a major optimization for the PC client. The “Slim PC Build” is now the default version for all players.

While the legacy (larger file size) version will remain accessible for a short transition period to ensure stability, the studio plans to sunset it permanently in the near future. This move optimizes disk usage, making storage management more efficient for everyone—a welcome change given the increasing size of modern titles.

Future Plans and The Road to February

The Redacted Regiment Warbond, originally slated for January 20 but delayed slightly to meet quality standards, is now fully deployable. Arrowhead has teased that this is just the beginning of a busy quarter, with much more content scheduled for February and beyond.

According to recent leaks circulating in the community, we may soon see a new sub-faction related to the Automatons entering the fray, though official confirmation is still pending.

Finish the job for Super Earth.

Counter-Strike 2 Season 4 Released: Massive Update & Full Patch Notes

Elwood — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 07:25:00 GMT

counter strike 2 cs2 cs2 season 4

Counter-Strike 2 Season 4 Released: Massive Update & Full Patch Notes

Elwood

• January 22, 2026

Counter-Strike 2 Season 4 is Live: Massive Update

Counter-Strike 2’s highly anticipated Season 4 has officially kicked off. This approximately 8GB update brings two new collections, map changes, weapon balancing adjustments, and numerous improvements to the game.

Premier and Competitive Changes

With the new season, Anubis has returned to the Active Duty map pool after a short break, featuring significant gameplay changes. Conversely, Train has been removed from the active duty pool.

Per-map competitive matchmaking rank values have been adjusted. Existing per-map competitive Skill Groups have been reset and will be displayed again once players reach the required number of wins.

For the Season 4 Medal: To qualify for the medal, you need an account in good standing, 25 Premier match wins, and an active CSR at the end of the season. The color of your medal will be determined by the highest CS Rating you achieve during the season, with a new bar added for every 25 wins (maximum 5 bars).

Weapon Changes

Notable changes have been made to the SMG class:

Weapon	Change
MP7	Damage slightly increased, damage drop-off reduced, price reduced by $100
MP5-SD	Damage slightly increased, damage drop-off reduced, price reduced by $100
PP-Bizon	Price reduced by $100

Jump Mechanics & Movement Updates

Significant updates have been applied to the movement system:

Landing duration is now calculated with subtick precision
Jumping and landing no longer affect stamina
A new calculation system has been added for bunny hopping
Legacy jump behavior can be restored on community servers via the sv_legacy_jump command

New Collections

Two brand-new collections have been added to the Weekly Care Package:

Harlequin – Colorful and vibrant designs
Achroma – Desaturated, black-and-white toned designs

Additionally, the Safehouse, Dust 2, 2018 Nuke, and 2018 Inferno Collections have been removed from the weekly drop list.

Limited Edition Item: AK-47 | Aphrodite

A new Limited Edition item has been added to the Armory: AK-47 | Aphrodite. Adorned with pearlescent accents and an amber patina, this weapon offers variety in both wear and pattern.

New Community Maps

Community maps have been refreshed with the new season:

Added to Competitive, Casual, and Deathmatch modes:

Warden
Stronghold
Alpine

Added to Wingman mode:

Sanctum
Poseidon

Removed maps: Golden, Palacio, Agency, and Rooftop have been removed from all game modes.

Anubis Map Changes

Significant gameplay adjustments have been made to Anubis:

Bridge drop moved closer to Mid Doors
Mid doors orientation flipped
A new hole added between E-box and Back of B
Bombsite A crates moved on top of the steps at Walkway
Scaffolding added to Bombsite A pillar

Audio Updates

Major improvements have been made to sound quality and experience:

Audio output latency reduced
Knife draw and inspect sounds replaced with higher quality versions
Sounds no longer overlap when switching weapons quickly
Knife hit sounds now play distinct sounds based on primary/secondary attacks and front/back hits
Ambient sounds no longer restart when transitioning between zones

Visual Improvements

Material quality has been increased for several base weapons:

AK-47, AUG, AWP, Berettas, Deagle
Galil, MAC-10, MP7, P250, TEC-9
USP-S, Bizon, CZ75-Auto, FAMAS, MP9

Other Changes and Bug Fixes

Map guides can now be loaded in casual and retakes online games (via ESC menu)
Voice status behavior fixed when the microphone is open
Deathcam intersection bug fixed
Collision issues with inner edges while sliding along ramps in Surf mode fixed
Minor clipping in Butterfly Knife animations fixed
Issues where blood splatters were not visible have been resolved

Bonus: StarLadder Major Sticker Capsules

StarLadder Major sticker capsules are currently 75% off. Those wishing to take advantage of the discount can visit the in-game store.

Counter-Strike 2 Season 4 is now available to players as a comprehensive update packed with community content, gameplay improvements, and new cosmetic items.

Ubisoft Cancels 6 Games!

Elwood — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 17:20:00 GMT

Prince of Persia Prince of Persia Sands of Time Prince of Persia Sands of Time Remake

Ubisoft Cancels 6 Games!

Elwood

• January 21, 2026

Ubisoft has announced the cancellation of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Remake, which was announced in 2020 and has faced multiple delays since. The company stated that the game could not reach the quality level that fans deserved.

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The statement from the official Prince of Persia account read: “While the project had real potential, we weren’t able to reach the level of quality you deserve, and continuing would have required more time and investment than we could responsibly commit.”

Major Restructuring at Ubisoft

The cancellation of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Remake is part of a major organizational change announced by Ubisoft today. The company revealed it has discontinued development of 6 games in total. These include Prince of Persia along with 4 unannounced titles and a mobile game.

Ubisoft is adopting a new operational model with 5 separate “Creative Houses.” Each Creative House will focus on specific game genres and brands:

Vantage Studios: Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, Rainbow Six
Creative House 2: The Division, Ghost Recon, Splinter Cell
Creative House 3: For Honor, The Crew, Riders Republic, Skull & Bones
Creative House 4: Anno, Might & Magic, Rayman, Prince of Persia, Beyond Good & Evil
Creative House 5: Just Dance, Hungry Shark, Uno

Accelerating Cost Reductions

The company announced it is accelerating its cost reduction program with a target of €500 million in total savings by 2028. As part of this, the Halifax mobile studio and Stockholm studio are being closed, while restructuring is underway at Abu Dhabi, RedLynx, and Massive studios.

Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot stated: “The AAA industry has become persistently more selective and competitive. Today we are announcing a major reset built to create the conditions for a return to sustainable growth.”

While this development is a major disappointment for the Prince of Persia franchise, Ubisoft emphasized it has not abandoned the series. The brand will continue to be developed under the new Creative House 4 structure.

Life is Strange: Reunion Announced - Max and Chloe's Epic Story Comes to an End

Elwood — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Life is Strange Life is Strange Reunion Life is Strange Reunion release date

Life is Strange: Reunion Announced - Max and Chloe's Epic Story Comes to an End

Elwood

• January 20, 2026

Life is Strange: Reunion has been officially announced. The long-awaited reunion of Max and Chloe that fans have been hoping for is finally happening. Developed by Deck Nine Games, the title launches on March 26, 2026 for Xbox Series X|S and PC.

The announcement came to light when Xbox accidentally published their blog post earlier than planned, revealing that the trailer was originally scheduled for release at 1 PM EST tonight. However, this small mishap hasn’t dampened fans’ excitement.

Max and Chloe Together Again

Life is Strange: Reunion answers the question fans have been asking since the first game: Will Max and Chloe’s paths cross again? The answer is now definitive: yes.

The game takes place after the events of Life is Strange: Double Exposure. Following Max losing her Shift power (which allowed her to move between parallel timelines) and regaining her Rewind ability, Chloe unexpectedly returns.

However, the developers emphasize this reunion won’t be easy:

“Max’s power allows her to undo everything… except the memory of her own actions. Of the way the world was before. Of everything she’s done — and everything she’s lost in the process.”

Two Playable Characters for the First Time

For the first time in the series’ history, Max and Chloe are co-leads together. Players will experience events from both characters’ perspectives throughout the story.

Max’s Powers

Max has regained her Rewind ability. However, her powers have also evolved:

Time Rewind: Can be used to unravel conversations, reveal lies, or escape danger
Polaroid Jump: As a new ability, Max can leap into Polaroid photographs she’s taken to return to that moment

This new photograph mechanic emerges as a critical tool for escaping the disaster that will unfold at Caledon University.

Chloe’s Abilities

Chloe now appears as the tour manager for the band Drugstore Makeup. Her characteristic Backtalk ability returns, allowing her to browbeat opponents during key conversations.

Since Chloe isn’t part of the university, she can go where Max can’t and ask questions Max wouldn’t. This dynamic ensures the two characters complement each other.

Fire at Caledon University

The story centers around a fire that will break out at Caledon University. Max and Chloe venture into dangerous territory as they investigate how this disaster will start.

Familiar faces from Double Exposure also return:

Moses (Max’s astrophysicist friend)
Safi
Amanda
Vinh

Your Choices Shape the Story

True to the series’ DNA, player choices directly affect the narrative:

Did Chloe survive or die at Arcadia Bay?
Were Max and Chloe friends or lovers?
How do you want to develop their relationship?

These decisions will determine not only the past but also the characters’ future.

The Definitive Finale of the Series

The developers have explicitly stated that Life is Strange: Reunion will be the definitive finale of Max and Chloe’s saga. This journey that began in 2015 comes to an end after 11 years.

The game’s Senior Brand Manager, Andrew James, added a personal note in the announcement post that captures the game’s significance:

“Like many of you, Max and Chloe changed my life. Life is Strange: Reunion is your last chance to change theirs.”

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Life is Strange: Reunion come out?

Life is Strange: Reunion launches on March 26, 2026.

What platforms is Life is Strange: Reunion coming to?

The game has been announced for Xbox Series X|S and PC platforms. No announcements have been made yet for PlayStation or Nintendo Switch.

Who is playable in Life is Strange: Reunion?

For the first time in the series, Max Caulfield and Chloe Price are co-leads together. Both characters will be playable.

Is Life is Strange: Reunion a sequel to Double Exposure?

Yes, the game takes place after the events of Life is Strange: Double Exposure. The Caledon University story continues.

Is this the last Life is Strange game?

The developers confirmed that the game will conclude Max and Chloe’s story. However, whether other stories will be told in the Life is Strange universe remains unclear.

Space Marine 2 and Death Stranding Arrive on Game Pass

Elwood — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Xbox Game Pass Xbox Game Pass January 2026 Game Pass new games

Space Marine 2 and Death Stranding Arrive on Game Pass

Elwood

• January 20, 2026

Xbox Game Pass is loading the second half of January 2026 with heavy hitters. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II, Death Stranding Director’s Cut, and Resident Evil Village headline the drop.

Available Today

Resident Evil Village

The eighth mainline Resident Evil is now on Game Pass. Ethan Winters fights to survive in a chilling European village years after Resident Evil 7. Tier: Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass.

MIO: Memories in Orbit

A day-one metroidvania set in a decaying world reclaimed by nature and machines. Play as Mio, a nimble android uncovering lost memories. Tier: Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass.

Coming Soon

Game	Date	Platforms	Tier
Death Stranding Director’s Cut	January 21	Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X\|S	Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass
RoadCraft	January 21	PC	Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass
Ninja Gaiden Ragebound	January 21	Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X\|S	Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass
The Talos Principle 2	January 27	PC, Xbox Series X\|S	Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass
Anno: Mutationem	January 28	Cloud, PC, Console	Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass
Drop Duchy	January 28	Cloud, PC, Console	Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass
MySims: Cozy Bundle	January 29	PC	Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II	January 29	Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X\|S	Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass
Indika	February 2	Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X\|S	Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass
Final Fantasy II	February 3	Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X\|S	Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, PC Game Pass

Highlights

Death Stranding Director’s Cut returns with Kojima Productions’ definitive version, now on Xbox. Sam Porter Bridges once again carries hope to a fractured world.

Ninja Gaiden Ragebound comes from the Blasphemous team, reimagining the side-scrolling classic with sharp combat and tough platforming.

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II is the marquee addition: purge Tyranid swarms as Demetrian Titus solo or in three-player co-op across PvE and PvP modes.

Leaving January 31

Shady Part of Me
Cataclismo
Starbound
Lonely Mountains Snow Riders
Paw Patrol World
Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector
Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap

Finish any remaining achievements soon; members can buy these with up to 20% off before they leave the catalog.

Four Years of Work Gone: CDPR's Heavy-Handed Move Against Cyberpunk VR Mod

Elwood — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 21:20:00 GMT

CD Projekt Red CDPR Cyberpunk 2077

Four Years of Work Gone: CDPR's Heavy-Handed Move Against Cyberpunk VR Mod

Elwood

• January 19, 2026

CD Projekt Red has issued a DMCA takedown notice against the popular Cyberpunk 2077 VR mod, forcing its removal from the internet. The mod’s developer, Luke Ross, refused the company’s ultimatum to make it free and removed the project entirely instead.

The R.E.A.L. VR mod developed by Luke Ross transformed Cyberpunk 2077 into a fully immersive virtual reality experience. However, the mod was distributed exclusively through Patreon, requiring a monthly $10 subscription. CD Projekt Red deemed this monetization strategy a violation of their fan content guidelines and took action.

Official Statement from CD Projekt Red

Jan Rosner, VP of CD Projekt Red, announced the DMCA strike on Twitter:

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In his statement, Rosner wrote:

We issued a DMCA strike for the “Cyberpunk VR” mod created by Luke Ross, as it was available as a paid mod (only accessible to Patreon subscribers). This directly violates our Fan Content Guidelines: we never allow monetization of our IP without our direct permission and/or an agreement in place.

Rosner added that the company had contacted Luke the previous week, requesting that he either make the mod free for everyone (with optional donations) or remove it entirely.

Luke Ross Hits Back

Luke Ross responded sharply to the takedown:

Thank you Jan. I’m sorry but I don’t believe you are within your rights in demanding that my software needs to be free. It is not “derivative work” or “fan content”: it supports a large number of games which were built upon different engines, and it contains absolutely zero code or assets from your IP.

Ross compared the situation to overlay software like RivaTuner, arguing that screen-capture and processing tools should not be considered copyright infringement.

Four Years of Work Erased

In a lengthy post on his Patreon page, Luke Ross expressed his frustration:

For four years, I spent so much time keeping our mods alive despite CDPR’s constant breaking updates. They never even knew or cared during all this time that the VR conversion was there, and are only knee-jerk reacting now because somebody reported to them that it existed and it was not free.

Ross went on to critique the double standards of major publishers:

—“Are you considering an official VR port of your game?”—“HAHAHA, you must be delusional, why would we spend our precious money building something only because gamers yearn for it, when there’s no clear return on investment”. —“Are you allowing developers to be at least supported financially while they do the work you refuse to do?”—“ABSOLUTELY NOT, we are okay with it if they give all their time and expertise for free, but it’s downright shameful for them to ask for money”.

Second Major Crackdown After Take-Two

This marks the second major DMCA strike Luke Ross has faced from a AAA publisher. Earlier, Take-Two Interactive took similar action against the GTA V and Red Dead Redemption 2 VR mods.

CD Projekt Red acknowledged their admiration for the modding community and called Luke’s Cyberpunk 2077 work “nothing short of amazing.” Nevertheless, the company remained firm that any commercialization of their IP requires explicit permission.

Baldur’s Gate 3 VR Coming

Following the Cyberpunk 2077 takedown, Luke Ross announced his next project: Baldur’s Gate 3 VR mod. He stated, “Despite everything, I really want to end this on a positive note,” and revealed that the new mod is coming soon.

The R.E.A.L. VR mod package will be updated with Cyberpunk 2077 support removed. Currently supported games include Elden Ring, Days Gone, Far Cry 5, Far Cry New Dawn, and Far Cry 6.

What This Means for the VR Modding Community

This incident sets an important precedent for paid mod developers. With both Take-Two and CD Projekt Red adopting similar stances, other major publishers may follow suit.

Community members encouraged Ross to republish the mod as free or donation-based, but he declined, standing firm that he deserves compensation for four years of dedicated work.

Marathon Releases March 5, 2026: Pricing, Trailer, and Everything You Need to Know

Elwood — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 17:30:00 GMT

Marathon Marathon game Marathon 2026

Marathon Releases March 5, 2026: Pricing, Trailer, and Everything You Need to Know

Elwood

• January 19, 2026

Bungie has officially announced the release date for Marathon, their highly anticipated new game. The extraction shooter launches on March 5, 2026 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Pre-orders are available now.

New Gameplay Trailer

The latest gameplay trailer introduces one of the many characters you’ll meet on Tau Ceti: Gantry, the MIDA faction agent. Bungie emphasizes that factions and their agents play a critical role in the game’s narrative.

The game features six different factions. As you complete contracts for each one, you’ll uncover their identities, motivations, and rivalries. Contracts, narrative items, and various achievements unlock new entries in your Codex, which you can view outside of your runs.

Collecting the colony’s lost audio and text logs, discovering cryptic graffiti, and investigating abandoned colony systems form the core of the Marathon experience.

Marathon Pricing

Marathon is priced at $39.99 USD globally. Regional pricing on Steam may offer discounts in certain regions.

Voice Cast Announced

Bungie has revealed Marathon’s English voice cast, featuring an impressive lineup of industry veterans:

Roger Clark (Red Dead Redemption 2 - Arthur Morgan), Neil Newbon (Baldur’s Gate 3 - Astarion), Ben Starr (Final Fantasy XVI - Clive), Samantha Béart (Baldur’s Gate 3 - Karlach), Jennifer English (Baldur’s Gate 3 - Shadowheart), and Elias Toufexis (Deus Ex - Adam Jensen) are among the notable names attached to the project.

The full cast also includes Krizia Bajos, Beau Bridgland, Ry Chase, Darin De Paul, Dave Fennoy, Nika Futterman, Morla Gorrondona, Reina Guthrie, Donnla Hughes, Keston John, Sohm Kapila, Rich Keeble, Elliot Knight, Erica Lindbeck, Piotr Michael, Brent Mukai, Ariana Nicole George, Emily O’Brien, Lee Shorten, Jason Spisak, JB Tadena, Fred Tatasciore, Craig Lee Thomas, Oliver Vaquer, Scott Whyte, Tracy Wiles, and Erin Yvette.

Marathon will also feature fully-localized dialogue for all supported languages.

Pre-Order Bonuses

Standard Edition

Access to all gameplay updates (maps, Runner shells, events) throughout the year
ZERO STEP 004 CE Tactical Sidearm Style
ZERO STEP RC Weapon Charm
ZERO STEP SHIFT Weapon Sticker
APOGEE INTERCEPT Background and Emblem
Destiny 2 rewards: UESC Echo-type Shell (Exotic Ghost), UESC Rover (Exotic Ship), UESC Sprinter (Exotic Sparrow)

Deluxe Edition

Includes all Standard Edition content plus:

1x Premium Rewards Pass Voucher
200 SILK Rewards Pass Tokens
MIDNIGHT DECAY weapon and Runner Shell cosmetics (Vandal, Destroyer, Assassin, Thief shell styles)

Collector’s Edition

The Collector’s Edition features a premium unboxing experience inspired by Sekiguchi Genetics’ shell-weaving process. Contents include:

1/6-scale Thief Runner Shell statue
Collectible miniature WEAVEworm
Embroidered patch
Postcards
Digital rewards

Cross-Play and Cross-Save Support

Marathon launches with full cross-play and cross-save support. Players on different platforms can play together, and you can carry your progress across systems.

Cross-save requires a copy of the game on each system you play on and a platform account linked to your Bungie.net account.

Open Preview Weekend

Bungie will share more information about the open preview weekend at a later date. The team thanked the dedicated community who has been playtesting Marathon since last April for their invaluable feedback.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Marathon release?

Marathon releases on March 5, 2026 for PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

How much does Marathon cost?

Marathon is priced at $39.99 USD globally. Regional pricing on Steam may offer discounts depending on your region.

What platforms is Marathon available on?

The game launches on Steam, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S with full cross-play and cross-save support.

What kind of game is Marathon?

Marathon is an extraction shooter developed by Bungie. Set on Tau Ceti, you complete contracts for six different factions while uncovering the mysteries of the colony’s fate.

What are the pre-order bonuses?

Pre-order bonuses include weapon cosmetics, emblems, backgrounds, and Destiny 2 rewards. The Deluxe Edition adds a Premium Rewards Pass and 200 SILK tokens.

Fire at Rockstar North Office: Explosion at GTA 6 Studio

G-Man — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 12:15:00 GMT

rockstar north rockstar north fire rockstar north explosion

Fire at Rockstar North Office: Explosion at GTA 6 Studio

G-Man

• January 19, 2026

Fire Shock at Rockstar North Office

Busy hours were experienced this morning at the Edinburgh office of Rockstar North, the main studio behind the world’s most anticipated game, Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6). It was reported that an explosion occurred and a fire broke out at the studio building located near Holyrood Road in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland.

The incident occurred around 05:00 AM local time. According to information obtained from Scottish sources, an explosion occurring in the building’s boiler room caused the fire alarm to trigger.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) quickly arrived at the scene and intervened. In a statement, it was said, “We received a call at 05:02 this morning. We dispatched three pumps and four specialist appliances to the scene.”

Details of the Incident

According to reports from the area, the explosion is thought to have occurred in the office’s boiler room. Fortunately, since the incident happened in the very early hours of the morning, it is estimated that no one was in the office. Authorities confirmed that there were no injuries or loss of life.

Police teams cordoned off the area around the building and closed part of the road to traffic. Fire crews worked for hours to secure structural damage in the building. It was stated that crews left the scene at 09:21 after about four hours of work.

It is not yet known whether this sad event will affect the release schedule of GTA 6, which is currently nearing the end of its development phase. No official statement has yet been made by Rockstar Games, but serious disruption to the development process of GTA VI is not expected.

We will continue to follow developments closely.

Hytale's First Major Update Released: Patch Notes Update 1

Elwood — Sat, 17 Jan 2026 19:00:00 GMT

hytale update hytale update 1 hytale patch notes

Hytale's First Major Update Released: Patch Notes Update 1

Elwood

• January 17, 2026

Hytale’s First Major Update Released

Hypixel Studios has announced the first major update for the highly anticipated Hytale. Released shortly after the early access launch, Update 1 brings new content, numerous bug fixes, and quality-of-life improvements to the game.

The development team has committed to maintaining a rapid patching schedule to address issues and improve the game as quickly as possible.

World & Environment Changes

With this update, dinosaurs and new NPCs have been added to populate the underground jungles. These creatures currently use placeholder behaviors and are still a work in progress.

⚠️ Important: These new NPCs required a change to the environment in the biome, so you will need to generate new unexplored areas to see them.

Other environmental improvements:

Devastated Lands sewers now have proper atmospheric effects and creature spawns
Areas beneath volcanoes now use volcanic environmental effects
Fixed entity placements, textures, and interiors in Feran villages
Removed an invisible filler block behind the bench in the Forgotten Temple

NPCs & Creatures

Major balance and behavior changes have been made to creatures:

Change	Description
Knockback Resistance	Added knockback resistance to NPCs that previously did not have it
Fire Immunity	Fire-themed NPCs and creatures are now immune to fire damage
Crystal Earth Golem	Combat behavior and spin attack have been improved
Skeletons	No longer take drowning damage
Kweebecs	Now immune to environmental damage caused by cactus and brambles
Trork Shaman	Placeholder summon animation replaced with proper animation
Cautious Predators	Wildlife predators like the Fox no longer engage players unless attacked

Additionally, proper loot tables have been added to Kweebecs and Trorks in the Whisperfrost Frontiers. Livestock will no longer climb on top of the Chicken Coop.

Crafting, Items & Farming

The crafting system, one of the game’s core mechanics, has been significantly improved:

Backpack Changes

Base backpack now requires a Tier 1 Workbench (down from Tier 2)
Cost reduced to 8 Medium Leather (down from 16)
First upgrade now requires Tier 2 Workbench (down from Tier 3)
Light, Medium, and Heavy Hide now take 10 less seconds to process into Leather

Crafting Bench Improvements

Crafting benches can now pull materials from chests within 14 blocks horizontally (up from 7) and 6 blocks vertically (up from 4)
Processing benches now display item tooltips in the upgrade requirements panel

Food & Farming

All raw fruits and vegetables now only grant Health Regen I; cooking them grants additional benefits
Corn now gives 1 Essence Of Life instead of 4 when exchanged in the Farming Bench
Fully grown Cauliflower and Pumpkin no longer drop regular seeds when broken
Eternal Crops no longer drop eternal seeds when fully grown and broken

Other Improvements

Dropped items no longer get stuck on the side of blocks
Torches and other handheld light sources can now be placed on the ground when equipped in the Utility Slot while wielding a pickaxe or hatchet
Pickaxes and hatchets are now only swung when using the primary action
Wood Logs now display their respective wood type in tooltips (e.g., “Hardwood”)
Recipe requirements now correctly display “Log” instead of “Trunk”

Audio & Visual Effects

New audio and visual effects have been added to enhance the game’s atmosphere:

New Audio

New hit and break sounds for stone
New hit and break sounds for ores with additional layered effects
Horses now properly play running sounds while mounted
Torch burn loop replaced with a softer ambient sound
Adjusted volumes for cocoon breaking, pig, piglet, and warthog sounds
Reduced pitch variation on sword swings

New Visual Effects

New ore breaking particles
Fruit eating particles (more to come for other food types)
New particle effect appears above an NPC’s head when absorbing their memory
Updated health potion visual effects with new glitter, glow, and spiral particles
Fixed rope offset when held in hand
Fixed hand positioning for various plants, flowers, and foliage

UI, Performance & Quality of Life

Quality of life improvements to enhance player experience:

You can now sleep starting at 7:30 PM
Added an information panel explaining the Memories system when interacting with The Heart of Orbis for the first time
Toggle Fullscreen, Switch HUD, and Take Screenshot can no longer be bound to mouse buttons
The game now warns when launching pre-release versions or opening worlds from different versions
Field of view while sprinting is now limited to 160° maximum
Cancelling LAN server discovery now works correctly
The interaction system now handles server lag spikes better

Character Customization

New cosmetic options have been added:

New Eye Types:

Cat Eye
Demonic Eyes
Goat Eye
Reptile Eye

New Mouth Options:

Large Mouth
Tiny Lips

New Hair Color:

Lavender

Additionally, the Bangs hairstyle has been reworked, Dark Brown color has been brightened, and the Featherbound Hood now correctly shows for the Supporter edition.

Combat & Balance

Important changes have been made to combat mechanics:

Weapon attacks now check for line of sight
Regular Burn effect now generally deals less damage (Burn applied by lava remains unchanged)
Cactus and brambles now deal the Environmental damage type

Commands & Server

Improvements for server management:

Fixed argument order for teleport commands: /tp
Give command now supports specifying item durability
Whitelist and ban commands now support both online usernames and offline UUIDs
The server now uses BBR (Bottleneck Bandwidth and Round-trip propagation time) congestion control for QUIC
Improved authentication and session token error handling

Bug Fixes & Stability

Numerous critical bugs have been fixed with this update:

Fixed a misconfiguration that allowed weapon Charged Attacks to not consume Stamina correctly when swapping hotbar slots
Fixed signature ready sound playing incorrectly in adventure mode
Fixed regular expression parsing in /replace command
Fixed an issue where signature attacks could be used without signature energy
Fixed some items allowing longer interaction ranges than intended
Fixed fluid flow behavior when stacking water sources
Fixed crash when using non-English folder names for screenshots
Fixed crash when selecting certain hairstyles with variants
Fixed crash caused by corrupt cached avatar previews
Fixed crash when the memories plugin fails to load
Fixed an issue where rewards from restoring memories were granted too early
Fixed “waiting for chunks” taking too long at 128 view distance
Fixed crash when updating player model
Fixed localization loop affecting Norwegian language users
Fixed issues with crop growth where certain crops like Tomatoes would not grow correctly

Conclusion

Hytale’s first major update is a strong indication of how actively the game will be developed during the early access period. Hypixel Studios has stated that they will continue to follow a rapid patching schedule, taking player feedback into account.

Subway Surfers Sequel Announced: Subway Surfers City Coming February 26

Elwood — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 17:22:00 GMT

subway surfers city subway surfers city release date subway surfers city download

Subway Surfers Sequel Announced: Subway Surfers City Coming February 26

Elwood

• January 15, 2026

Subway Surfers City Launches February 26

The sequel to Subway Surfers, one of the most downloaded mobile games of all time with over 4.5 billion downloads and 100-150 million monthly active players, has been officially announced. Subway Surfers City will launch on February 26, 2026, as a free-to-play title on iOS and Android.

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Welcome to Subway City

According to developer SYBO, the game takes players home from the franchise’s World Tour and into the heart of the Subway Surfers universe: Subway City. This modern, multicultural metropolis features four distinct districts to unlock and explore:

The Docks
Southline
Sunrise Blvd
Delorean Park

Fresh content will be introduced each season, including additional neighborhoods, characters, outfits, and hoverboards.

New Mechanics and Game Modes

Subway Surfers City introduces brand-new gameplay mechanics to the series:

Speed Pads: Instantly boost your running speed
Stomp Move: Perform a downward dive while airborne
Bouncy Shield: Bounce off obstacles and keep going

The game will feature three distinct modes:

Mode	Description
Classic Endless	The traditional endless running experience
City Tour	Story mode with levels and missions
Events	Rotating finite runs and special trials

Pre-Registration Now Open

Pre-registration for Subway Surfers City is now open. Players who pre-register will receive exclusive rewards when the game launches. Visit the official website to pre-register.

Ryan Hurst to Play Kratos in Prime Video's God of War Series

Elwood — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 23:50:00 GMT

god of war god of war tv series god of war show

Ryan Hurst to Play Kratos in Prime Video's God of War Series

Elwood

• January 14, 2026

Ryan Hurst to Play Kratos in Prime Video’s God of War Series

Prime Video has revealed the lead actor for the highly anticipated God of War TV series. Ryan Hurst will portray the legendary Spartan warrior Kratos.

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From Thor to Kratos

The casting comes with an interesting twist. Ryan Hurst is no stranger to the God of War franchise. The actor previously portrayed Thor, the Norse god of thunder, in God of War: Ragnarok. After playing one of Kratos’ greatest enemies, he will now step into the role of the Ghost of Sparta himself.

Who Is Ryan Hurst?

Ryan Hurst is a well-known face in television. He earned widespread acclaim for his role as Opie Winston in Sons of Anarchy. He also portrayed Beta in The Walking Dead. Known for his imposing physique and charismatic performances, Hurst appears to be a fitting choice for such an iconic character.

What We Know About the Series

The God of War series is being produced through a partnership between PlayStation Productions and Amazon Studios. The show is expected to adapt the story of the 2018 God of War game, which followed Kratos and his son Atreus on an emotional journey through the Norse realms.

A release date for the series has not yet been announced.

Forza Horizon 6 Release Date Leaked

Elwood — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 19:00:00 GMT

forza horizon 6 forza horizon 6 release date forza horizon 6 when does it come out

Forza Horizon 6 Release Date Leaked

Elwood

• January 14, 2026

Forza Horizon 6 Release Date Leaked

The release date for Forza Horizon 6, Xbox’s popular open-world racing series, appears to have leaked online. With just days to go before the Xbox Developer Direct event, an alleged screenshot has surfaced that gives players a strong hint about when they’ll be able to hit the roads of Japan.

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What Does the Leak Say?

According to the screenshot circulating online, Forza Horizon 6 Premium Edition owners will gain access to the game on May 15, 2026. Given the ”play 4 days early” note on the image, this suggests the standard release date would be May 19, 2026.

What’s Included in the Premium Edition?

The leaked image also details the contents included with the Premium Edition purchase:

VIP Membership
Welcome Pack
Car Pass
Time Attack Car Pack
Italian Passion Car Pack (coming post-launch)
2 Premium Expansions (coming post-launch)

Additionally, those who pre-order the game will receive an exclusive, pre-tuned Ferrari J50 as a bonus.

What We Know About Forza Horizon 6

Forza Horizon 6 was first announced at last year’s Tokyo Game Show. For the first time in the series’ history, the game is set in Japan, marking a highly anticipated new chapter for the franchise.

Developer Direct on January 22

The first official gameplay footage will be revealed during the Xbox Developer Direct event on January 22, 2026 at 6:00 PM GMT / 1:00 PM ET. We’ll be covering all the announcements as they happen.

Helldivers 2 Redacted Regiment Warbond: Stealth-Focused Content Pack Arrives January 20

Elwood — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 08:30:00 GMT

helldivers helldivers 2 helldivers 2 redacted regiment

Helldivers 2 Redacted Regiment Warbond: Stealth-Focused Content Pack Arrives January 20

Elwood

• January 14, 2026

Helldivers 2 Redacted Regiment Warbond: Stealth Operations Begin January 20

Arrowhead Game Studios has announced a new premium Warbond for Helldivers 2. The content pack called Redacted Regiment will be released on January 20, 2026. Emerging from the Ministry of Defense R&D laboratories, this pack includes suppressed weapons, tactical armor, and special stratagems designed for covert operations.

New Weapons and Stratagems

R-72 Censor – Suppressed Precision Rifle

Designed for mid-range combat, this precision rifle becomes undetectable on the battlefield thanks to its integrated suppressor. An ideal choice for silent and deadly operations.

AR-59 Suppressor – Automatic Assault Rifle

For those who need more firepower, a fully automatic assault rifle is available. With its non-removable suppressor, it combines rapid fire with stealth.

P-35 Re-Educator – Dart-Firing Pistol

This secondary weapon fires chemical agents that cause delirium in organic targets. It also causes delirium-like malfunctions in mechanical enemies.

B/MD C4 Pack – Explosive Backpack

For those who prefer the commando approach, a backpack containing six adhesive C4 explosives and a wireless detonator is available. Explosives can be detonated individually or simultaneously.

TM-01 Lure Mine – Decoy Mine

Designed as a distraction strategy, this throwable anti-personnel mine sticks to surfaces and emits lights and sounds. It detonates when approaching targets trigger it.

Armors, Capes, and Cosmetics

RS-89 Shadow Paragon – Light Armor

This light armor offers the look of a real operative, featuring numerous pockets and pouches for tactical EDC items.

RS-67 Null Cipher – Medium Armor

Equipped with radar-absorbent polymer and heat signature blocking coating, this armor allows you to become a ghost to sensors.

Both armors feature the Reduced Signature passive ability. This ability reduces noise level and the range at which enemies can detect the player.

New Capes and Cosmetics

Pillar of the Abyss and Triangulation Veil capes
New player cards
Target Sighted victory pose
[Redacted] player title

Concealed Insertion – New Booster

With this new booster, the Hellpod deploys a smokescreen upon landing. This keeps dive operations completely hidden.

Release Date and Purchase

The Redacted Regiment premium Warbond will be released on January 20, 2026. The base game, Super Credits purchase, and in-game progression are required to unlock the pack.

Personally, I really like the RS-67 armor. I’m considering getting the Warbond just for the armor alone. The other content besides the armor doesn’t really interest me. We’ll have to wait for gameplay videos to get a better idea of the weapons and their in-game effects. What do you think, are you planning to get it?

YouTube Face Detection Feature Coming: New Protection Against Deepfakes and Unauthorized Use

Elwood — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 08:52:00 GMT

YouTube YouTube face detection YouTube similarity detection

YouTube Face Detection Feature Coming: New Protection Against Deepfakes and Unauthorized Use

Elwood

• January 13, 2026

YouTube is taking a significant step toward protecting user privacy. The platform is developing a new “Similarity Detection” feature that will allow you to find videos where your face appears or has been manipulated with AI. Currently in beta, this face detection tool aims to scan all content on the platform to identify matches with your appearance.

With the rise of deepfake technology in recent years, many users have discovered their faces being used in videos without permission. YouTube’s new feature offers a critical layer of protection, especially for content creators and public figures.

How Does YouTube Face Detection Work?

This new system enables you to detect content featuring altered or AI-generated versions of your face. YouTube’s deepfake detection system uses two key references to find such content:

Your appearances in videos on your channel
A short face video you submit to the system

When matching content is found, you can decide what action to take. Options include requesting content removal or initiating a review process.

How to Set Up YouTube Face Detection

Enabling the feature involves a three-step process:

Step 1: Biometric Permission

You need to allow YouTube to use biometric technology to search for elements that resemble you. Without this permission, the platform cannot search for your face in content.

Step 2: Identity Verification

You’ll be asked to take a photo of your ID and record a short video showing your face. These visual elements are:

Used as references for similarity detection
Stored to verify and protect your identity
Only evaluated within the scope of this feature

Step 3: Review Process

After submitting your information, you’ll receive an email confirming your settings are complete. The review process can take approximately 5 days.

The Deepfake Threat and YouTube’s Response

With advances in AI technology, the number of deepfake content has increased dramatically. Having someone’s face added to videos without permission can lead to serious problems:

Reputation damage
Privacy violations
Fraud and forgery
Psychological trauma

YouTube’s new face detection tool provides proactive protection against the deepfake threat. This feature is particularly important for content creators, celebrities, and public figures.

When Will YouTube Similarity Detection Be Available?

The feature is currently in beta and being tested with a limited number of users. No official date has been shared for when it will be available to all users. However, given YouTube’s emphasis on privacy and security, the feature is expected to become widely available in 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is YouTube face detection feature?

YouTube face detection (similarity detection) is a new security tool that helps you find videos where your face is used without permission or manipulated with AI. It uses biometric technology to scan content across the platform.

How does YouTube Deepfake detection work?

YouTube uses your appearances in your channel’s videos and a short face video you submit as references to detect deepfake or manipulated content across the platform.

How do I enable YouTube face detection?

First, you need to grant biometric permission, then take a photo of your ID and record a short video of your face. The review process takes approximately 5 days.

When will YouTube face detection be available?

The feature is currently in beta testing. No official release date for all users has been announced yet, but it’s expected to become widely available in 2026.

Does YouTube remove Deepfake videos?

When matching content is found through the face detection feature, users can decide what action to take. Options include requesting removal or other actions.

Hytale System Requirements and Early Access Release Time Revealed

Elwood — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 23:21:00 GMT

Hytale Hytale release date Hytale system requirements

Hytale System Requirements and Early Access Release Time Revealed

Elwood

• January 12, 2026

Hypixel Studios has officially announced the Early Access release date and system requirements for the long-awaited sandbox adventure game Hytale. The game will launch into Early Access on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 3:00 PM UTC.

The Hytale Launcher serves as the gateway to Hytale and the world of Orbis. Currently, downloads are available only for PC platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux).

⚠️ Note: This is an Early Access release; the game is still in active development. Expect bugs and changes as development continues.

Hytale System Requirements

Minimum Requirements

1080p @ 30 FPS @ 192 View Distance

Component	Requirement
Operating System	Windows 11, Windows 10 x64 (v1809), Linux x64 (Kernel 6.15), macOS Tahoe (26.0) Apple Silicon
Processor	Intel Core i5-7500 / AMD Ryzen 3 1200 / Apple M1
RAM	8 GB
GPU (Integrated)	Intel UHD Graphics 620 / AMD Radeon Vega 6 / Apple M1
GPU (Dedicated)	NVIDIA GTX 900 Series / AMD Radeon 400 Series / Intel Arc A-Series
Storage	10 GB free space (SSD)
Network	2 Mbit/s download for multiplayer (UDP/QUIC)

Recommended Requirements

1080p @ 60 FPS @ 384 View Distance

Component	Requirement
Operating System	Windows 11, Windows 10 x64 (v1809), Linux x64 (Kernel 6.15), macOS Tahoe (26.0) Apple Silicon
Processor	Intel Core i5-10400 / AMD Ryzen 5 3600 / Apple M2
RAM	16 GB
GPU (Integrated)	Intel Iris Xe Graphics / AMD Radeon 660M / Apple M2
GPU (Dedicated)	NVIDIA GTX 900 Series / AMD Radeon 400 Series / Intel Arc A-Series
Storage	20 GB free space (SSD)
Network	8 Mbit/s download for multiplayer (UDP/QUIC)

💡 Internet connection is required for download and periodic authentication. Offline play is supported.

Supported Platforms

During Early Access, Hytale will be playable on the following platforms:

✅ Windows (10/11 x64)
✅ macOS (Apple Silicon, Tahoe 26.0)
✅ Linux (x64, Kernel 6.15)

What About Console and Mobile?

Console: Early Access is PC-only. Console versions are planned for later stages but require significant backend work, so they’re not a priority right now.

Mobile: No mobile version for Early Access. The team is still evaluating feasibility.

Will Hytale Be on Steam?

Not initially. The development team wants to spend Early Access working closely with their existing community rather than chasing a flood of cold first impressions. The goal is to receive feedback from players familiar with the game’s development background.

The team acknowledges that Steam is a great platform but doesn’t see the need for it right now. They also note that Steam currently doesn’t support some of their modding features. Discussions with Valve are planned for the future.

Game Editions and Pricing

Hytale will be available in different editions with various content packages. Standard Edition is priced at $19.99 USD globally.

Edition contents will be revealed soon.
New content will be added to all editions throughout Early Access.
If you didn’t purchase the Cursebreaker Edition, you can upgrade later and only pay the difference.
These editions and their contents will only be available during Early Access.

Gifting

Gifting is not yet available but is being worked on.

Pre-Purchase Bonus

None. The team believes creating FOMO (fear of missing out) wouldn’t be fair given the current state of the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When does Hytale come out?

Hytale Early Access launches on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 3:00 PM UTC.

What are the Hytale system requirements?

Minimum: Windows 10/11, Intel Core i5-7500 or AMD Ryzen 3 1200, 8 GB RAM, Intel UHD Graphics 620 or NVIDIA GTX 900 series, 10 GB SSD.

Recommended: Intel Core i5-10400 or AMD Ryzen 5 3600, 16 GB RAM, Intel Iris Xe or NVIDIA GTX 900 series, 20 GB SSD.

What platforms is Hytale available on?

During Early Access, Hytale will be available on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Console and mobile versions are planned for later.

Will Hytale be on Steam?

Not initially. The development team prefers to work with their existing community during Early Access. It may come to Steam later.

How much does Hytale cost?

Standard Edition is priced at $19.99 USD globally. Regional pricing is being worked on for select countries.

Can I play Hytale offline?

Yes, Hytale supports offline play. However, an internet connection is required for download and periodic authentication.

Will there be language localization?

Initially, only English will be available. However, the game is built with localization in mind, and community-driven translations via Crowdin are planned.

Will there be pets and fishing?

Pet and animal taming features are planned but not yet ready. Fishing is still in the design phase.

Will there be voice chat?

Proximity-based voice chat is nearly working but won’t be ready for the Early Access launch.

Does Hypixel take a cut from third-party servers?

0% for the first 2 years. After that, the cut will never exceed 20%, with well-managed servers benefiting from much lower rates.

Creator Program

Anyone who regularly creates Hytale content (videos, music, mods, art, streams, etc.) can apply.

Initially, creators receive 5% of sales from their codes.
After development costs are recouped, this will increase to 7%.
All creators receive the same rates; no special deals.

Hytale, developed by the team behind Hypixel, has been one of the most anticipated projects in gaming for years. The Early Access period will be a critical time for shaping the game together with the community.

New Details Revealed for Gallipoli: The WW1 Shooter Set in the Battle of Gallipoli

G-Man — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 06:09:35 GMT

Gallipoli game Battle of Gallipoli game WW1 shooter

New Details Revealed for Gallipoli: The WW1 Shooter Set in the Battle of Gallipoli

G-Man

• January 9, 2026

New Details Revealed for Realistic FPS “Gallipoli” Set During the Battle of Gallipoli

As part of New Game+ Showcase 2026, a comprehensive developer interview was published for Gallipoli, the highly anticipated First-Person Shooter (FPS) set during the Battle of Gallipoli campaign of World War I. Jos Hoebe, CEO of Blackmill Games—the studio behind successful WW1 titles Verdun, Tannenberg, and Isonzo—shared significant details about their upcoming project.

Historical Accuracy and Atmosphere

Gallipoli focuses on the Middle Eastern fronts of World War I. The development team emphasized their commitment to maintaining the highest level of historical accuracy by utilizing archival documents, period photographs, and geographical data. The game will feature not only the Gallipoli Peninsula but also strategic locations such as Mesopotamia (along the Tigris River) and Egypt (Suez Canal).

One of the interview’s highlights was Blackmill Games’ continuation of their “hardcore multiplayer” tradition. In battles featuring 50-player servers, the iconic bolt-action rifles of the era (Mauser, Enfield, Martini-Henry) retain their “one-shot kill” capability. This forces players to think strategically and value every bullet.

New Gameplay Mechanics: Suppression and Construction Systems

Jos Hoebe emphasized that mechanics inherited from Isonzo have been elevated to the next level in Gallipoli. Two new major features stand out:

Suppression System: When players come under heavy fire, their screens will blur and their characters will show signs of panic. This affects weapon reload speed, intensifying the tension of combat.
Construction and Fortification: Players will no longer just fight on the front lines but can also strengthen strategic positions similar to Battlefield V. Through specific classes, trenches can be built, machine gun nests established, and captured areas consolidated.

Historically Authentic Battlefields

Footage shared in the interview shows iconic locations like Anzac Cove and Medain (Ctesiphon) meticulously recreated. Every detail—from uniform buttons to markings on weapons—has been designed with historical accuracy in mind. Jos Hoebe stated that the team is aware of this conflict’s significance in the nation-building processes of Australia, New Zealand, and Turkey, and aims to create a production that honors this legacy.

Scheduled for release in late 2026, Gallipoli aims to deliver the most authentic World War I atmosphere for both history enthusiasts and tactical shooter fans.

Watch the full developer interview below:

What are your thoughts on Gallipoli? Let us know in the comments.

Counter-Strike 2 Season 4 Announced!

DS — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 22:56:00 GMT

counter strike 2 season 4 counter-strike 2 download cs:go 2 download

Counter-Strike 2 Season 4 Announced!

• January 9, 2026

Counter-Strike 2 Season 4 Announced: Here Are Dates and Details!

Valve has finally announced the new season of Counter-Strike 2. Premier Season 3 will end on January 19, 2026, making way for Season 4. The exact time of the update has not been announced, but traditionally, it is expected to happen on Wednesday night. Here are all the curious details!

Season 3’s Legacy: Medal and Performance Analysis

All players who earned a CS Rating during Season 3 will receive a special Premier Season 3 Medal.
Through the medal, players will be able to view CS Rating graphs, playtimes, and map-based statistics recorded throughout the season.
The statistics will offer the opportunity to analyze which maps need improvement for Season 4.

Transition to Season 4: What is Changing?

During the season transition on January 19, CS Ratings will be re-calibrated based on Season 3 performance.
10 wins will be required to determine your rating in the new season.
Map Rotation: While the classic Anubis returns, Train will be removed from the Premier pool.

Requirements for the Season 3 Medal

25 Premier match wins,
The account must be in good standing,
Having an active CS Rating at the end of the season (on January 19, 2026).
The medal color is designed based on the highest rating achieved in the season; bars are designed to increase every 25 wins (maximum 5 bars).

Even the arrival of an update for Counter-Strike is big news in itself. Valve’s approach regarding the duration of seasons varies. The first season lasted more than a year, the second season 6 months, and the third season was kept shorter. What do you think? We would appreciate it if you share your thoughts in the comments.

New Game+ Showcase 2026 Recap: Crimson Desert, The Division 3, Avowed and All Announcements

G-Man — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 18:46:18 GMT

New Game+ Showcase 2026 Crimson Desert Crimson Desert release date

New Game+ Showcase 2026 Recap: Crimson Desert, The Division 3, Avowed and All Announcements

G-Man

• January 8, 2026

The new games showcased and details shared during the New Game+ Showcase event continue to generate excitement in the gaming world. We’ve compiled the standout titles from the event and their key features for you.

New Details Revealed for The Blood of Dawnwalker

One of the event’s most intriguing titles, The Blood of Dawnwalker, unveiled new systems that will deeply affect gameplay dynamics. Particularly noteworthy is the “Notorious System,” a mechanic that makes the world react based on your crime level in the city. The number of guards pursuing you increases according to the severity of your crimes, and if things spiral out of control, the entire city can be quarantined and your paths blocked.

Additionally, it was revealed that the game will feature romance options. But perhaps the most fascinating detail concerns the survival mechanics: when the main character gets hungry, they can lose control and kill important NPCs. This situation creates consequences that can permanently alter the game’s story progression.

Tactical Tension: Beautiful Light

Beautiful Light, which has been on our radar for a while and stands out with its graphics, distinguishes itself with the dark atmosphere it brings to the PvPvPvE genre. This tactical first-person shooter pits 6 different teams of 3 operators each against one another.

In the game, where the main objective is to find an artifact, secure it, and extract it from the area, you’ll need to contend not only with other players but also with a terrifying environment and player-controlled anomalies. Promising a high-tension experience where mistakes come at a heavy cost and you risk losing all your equipment, this title looks set to keep players on edge.

Pixel Art and Dark Fantasy: Project Shadowglass

Another title announced at the event is the immersive sim Project: Shadowglass, set in a dark fantasy kingdom. Visually distinctive with its 3D pixel art style, the game offers a structure built around planning daring heists, infiltrating forbidden zones, and making your escape.

It was announced that the game’s demo will be released in 2026.

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A New Survival Experience from PLAYERUNKNOWN: Prologue

PLAYERUNKNOWN, one of the key figures in the Battle Royale genre, returns with his new project Prologue: Go Wayback! In an exclusive interview with the developer, details about the game’s future roadmap and the technological infrastructure it’s built upon were shared. More than just a game, the project also serves as a next-generation technology demo, aiming to bring a fresh perspective to the survival genre.

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Aphelion’s Music Entrusted to Award-Winning Composer

Aphelion, which stands out for its artistic direction, is coming with ambitious musical plans as well. Amine Bouhafa, the award-winning composer of The Summit of the Gods film, is composing for a video game for the first time in his career. In this title that will take us into the depths of the Persephone world, the power of the atmosphere will be defined by Bouhafa’s impressive compositions.

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The Expanse Universe Expands: Osiris Reborn

The beloved sci-fi universe of The Expanse is stepping into the RPG genre with The Expanse: Osiris Reborn. Designed as a third-person action RPG, the development team provided comprehensive information about the project.

Many details were laid out, from the character creation screen to the class system, from different playstyles to companions who will fight alongside you. It was particularly emphasized that faction choices and the dynamic combat system will be central to the game.

Crimson Desert Release Date and Massive Map Revealed

Pearl Abyss shared new details about the highly anticipated open-world action RPG Crimson Desert. The developers revealed that the game will feature a vast map twice the size of Skyrim and larger than Red Dead Redemption 2. Promising crafting, puzzles, and a deep combat system, the title is set to launch on March 19th for Xbox Series X|S, PC, PS5, and Mac platforms.

Developed through a collaboration between Pokuch and META Publishing, Blind Descent is being pitched as a blend of Valheim and Prey. Combining alien forces, base-building mechanics, and survival elements, the title is coming to Xbox Series X|S, PC (Steam, GOG, Epic), and PS5 platforms.

Cooking-Focused Dungeon Adventure: Deep Dish Dungeon

Standing out with its pixel art visuals, Deep Dish Dungeon combines dungeon exploration with cooking mechanics. With an atmosphere reminiscent of the Dungeon Meshi anime, the game promises players both a thrilling and delicious adventure and can be wishlisted on Steam.

Physics-Based Puzzle Game: Distant Shore

Distant Shore, a physics-based action-adventure game where we solve environmental puzzles using magnetic push and pull forces, is available to wishlist on Steam.

Avowed Heading to PS5

Obsidian Entertainment shared new details about Avowed, the fantasy RPG set in the Pillars of Eternity universe. The game is receiving new races, weapon class improvements, and Photo Mode. The most significant announcement was that the game is also coming to PS5, though no firm release date has been given yet.

Surviving as an Ordinary Person: Outward 2

The sequel to Nine Dots’ challenging survival RPG, Outward 2, continues to remind players that they’re not “the chosen one,” just an ordinary person. The game promises an even more challenging survival experience and is announced to enter Early Access in Q3 2026.

Fable and Elder Scrolls Vibes: Forsaken Realms

Set in the fantasy world of Leyda and offering players complete character customization freedom, Forsaken Realms: Vahrin’s Call draws inspiration from the Fable and The Elder Scrolls series. The game is expected to come to PC in late 2026.

Command the Battlefield with Your Dragon: Dragontwin

Developed by Draconic Interactive, Dragontwin is a strategy RPG where you can customize your dragon and take it into battle. The early version is accessible to Patreon supporters, with the full version coming to PC in Early Access first.

Easy to Learn, Hard to Master: IMMORTAL

The RTS game IMMORTAL: Gates of Pyre, which has been in development for five years, is preparing to meet strategy fans with both PvE and PvP modes.

New Adventures in the Bug World: Grounded 2

Obsidian shared new details about the beloved survival game Grounded 2. New creatures including hornets, black ants, and crickets were announced to be added to the game. Water gun-wielding ladybug mounts that can transform into tanks were also introduced.

Retro-Futuristic Wild West: ExeKiller

ExeKiller, which combines the Wild West theme with futuristic elements, promises an FPS experience offering players a wide field of freedom. Can be wishlisted on Steam.

Co-op Action with Robot Cowboys: Far Far West

Developed by Evil Raptor, Far Far West is an explosive shooter where we control robot cowboys with 1-4 player co-op support. Expected to launch in late 2026.

The Roguelike Where Death Advances Time: Erosion

Set in a post-apocalyptic Wild West, Erosion features an interesting time loop mechanic where 10 years pass in the game world with each death. Coming to PC and Xbox in Spring 2026.

Payday Meets Counter-Strike: Alpha Response

The tactical co-op shooter Alpha Response has taken its place on Steam with an Early Access process.

Battle Against Office Supplies: Last Man Sitting

Last Man Sitting, a fun and chaotic game where you fight against waves of malicious office supplies without getting up from your office chair, is coming to PC. The multiplayer beta starts this month.

Combat with Walking Fortresses: SAND

SAND: Raiders of Sophie, where we build and manage massive “Trampler” vehicles, will launch for PC and PS5 in March 2026.

Cyberpunk Survival: Dark Light Survivor

The roguelike game Dark Light: Survivor, which blends horror and action elements while combining top-down and third-person perspectives, is coming in Q1 2026.

Brutal Medieval RPG: Nested Lands

Nested Lands, which combines village building and social management systems with a dark fantasy world, is launching into Early Access on January 23rd.

The Five Stages of Grief: Tape 101

Tape 101, a psychological horror game inspired by the Kübler-Ross model (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance), is coming to PC with a playable demo.

New CRPG from Owlcat Games: Warhammer 40,000 Dark Heresy

Warhammer 40,000: Dark Heresy, which will take us into the depths of the Warhammer universe, stands out with its rich narrative and tactical combat. Announced for PC, Xbox, and PS5.

Towerborne Going Full Release

The Xbox Game Studios title Towerborne announced it will be abandoning the free-to-play (F2P) model and transitioning to a paid full release model on February 26th.

Crazy Train Racing: Denshattack!

Denshattack!, which carries Jet Set Radio vibes and combines Japanese train culture with anime aesthetics, will take its place on the rails in 2026.

Competitive 2D Platformer: Sprint City

Sprint City, a competitive platformer where speed and skill do the talking, is coming to Steam in Q1 2026.

Hand-Drawn Platform Adventure: The Eternal Life of Goldman

The Eternal Life of Goldman, which enchants with its frame-by-frame hand-drawn animations, will have a playable demo during Steam Next Fest in February.

Major Update for Core Keeper

The biggest update yet for the mining and sandbox adventure Core Keeper, called “Void and Voltage,” has been announced. New biomes and items will meet players on January 28th.

Good News for Ratchet and Clank Fans: Duskfade

Duskfade, a 3D platformer that stands out with its time-bending mechanics and colorful visuals, will launch in 2026.

Feudal Japan and Steampunk: Shadow of the Road

The turn-based RPG Shadow of the Road features an interesting universe that brings together samurai and machines. Coming to Steam, GOG, and Epic Games.

Story-Driven Sci-Fi: Starfighter Afterlight

The top-down RPG Starfighter: Afterlight, featuring Roger Clark (who voiced Arthur Morgan) as the narrator, will have a free demo at Steam Next Fest.

Realistic Take on the Gallipoli Campaign

The First-Person Shooter Gallipoli, which covers the Gallipoli Campaign, stands out with its realism-focused approach. The weapons, uniforms, and battlefields of the era are being faithfully recreated. Planned for release in late 2026, the game is a significant title for those interested in this historical event.

New Boss Battles in the Wuxia World

New content and boss battles were shown for the open-world action RPG Where Winds Meet. Mobile versions are on the way alongside PC and PS5.

Sword-Wielding Dinosaurs: Dinoblade

Yes, you heard that right. Dinoblade, where you play as a sword-wielding Spinosaurus fighting other dinosaurs, promises an experience as crazy as it sounds. A free demo is currently accessible.

News from The Division Series

While Ubisoft introduced the winter-themed “Survivors” mode for The Division 2, they also delivered news that will delight fans of the series: The Division 3 is officially in development. Additionally, it was announced that a mobile game inspired by the series is also on the way.

Xbox Developer Direct 2026: Fable and Forza Horizon 6 Gameplay Revealed January 22

G-Man — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 14:25:35 GMT

Xbox Developer Direct 2026 Fable gameplay Forza Horizon 6 Japan

Xbox Developer Direct 2026: Fable and Forza Horizon 6 Gameplay Revealed January 22

G-Man

• January 8, 2026

Xbox Developer Direct Returns January 22: Fable and Forza Horizon 6 Take Center Stage

Microsoft is kicking off 2026 with momentum. As part of Xbox’s 25th anniversary celebrations, the date and content details for the year’s first major digital showcase, Developer Direct, have been announced.

According to Xbox’s official announcement, the fourth installment of Developer Direct will stream on Thursday, January 22 at 6pm GMT / 10am Pacific / 1pm Eastern. The event maintains its signature format, with development teams presenting their games directly, focusing on behind-the-scenes insights and in-depth gameplay mechanics.

This year’s presentation will heavily feature UK-based Playground Games, with the studio showcasing both the highly anticipated Fable and the latest entry in the racing franchise, Forza Horizon 6.

The event’s featured titles include:

Forza Horizon 6 Officially Heads to Japan

The location racing fans have been requesting for years is finally becoming reality. Playground Games has confirmed that the next open-world racing game, Forza Horizon 6, will be set in Japan. The event will debut the first gameplay footage and detail how Japan’s diverse and contrasting landscapes come to life in the game.

First In-Depth Look at Fable

One of 2026’s most anticipated titles, Fable, will receive its “first in-depth look” during this broadcast. Marking the return to Albion’s fairytale world, the Playground team will demonstrate how choices, consequences, and the series’ signature British humor have been reimagined for a new generation. The presentation will include new gameplay footage.

Game Freak’s New IP: Beast of Reincarnation

Beast of Reincarnation, announced at last year’s Xbox Games Showcase and developed by Game Freak, will also feature prominently. Set in post-apocalyptic Japan, this action RPG will showcase for the first time the cooperative mechanics between protagonist Emma and her canine companion Koo. The studio will reveal the “innovative” gameplay structure built around Emma’s plant manipulation abilities.

Positioned as part of Xbox’s 25th anniversary celebrations, Developer Direct will stream live on January 22 across Xbox’s social media channels.

GTA 6 Could Be Delayed Again: Rockstar Still Hasn't Finished the Game

Nomad — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 08:27:54 GMT

GTA 6 GTA 6 delay GTA 6 release date

GTA 6 Could Be Delayed Again: Rockstar Still Hasn't Finished the Game

Nomad

• January 8, 2026

GTA 6 May Miss November 2026 Target: Game Still Not Content Complete

Rockstar Games’ highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6 may not hit its November 19, 2026 release date. According to Bloomberg reporter Jason Schreier, speaking on the Button Mash podcast, the game’s content is still not finished.

Development Is Still Ongoing

Schreier revealed that, based on his latest information, GTA 6 has not yet reached the content complete stage. Teams are still finalizing missions, polishing levels, and deciding which content will make the final cut.

In typical game development, features are locked first, then content is completed, followed by the bug-fixing phase. However, for GTA 6, these stages are still overlapping.

Rockstar Won’t Ship an Incomplete Game

Schreier emphasized that Rockstar releasing an unfinished product is simply not an option. Take-Two Interactive’s stock drops roughly 10 percent with each delay announcement. Yet the company appears willing to prioritize quality over financial pressure.

“If we get to October and the game isn’t 100% ready, I think they would rather delay than release it,” Schreier said. He also noted that Take-Two’s fiscal year ends in March, giving Rockstar a buffer until March 2027 if they miss the November window.

Red Dead 2 Scenario Could Repeat

This wouldn’t be surprising given Rockstar’s history with delays. Red Dead Redemption 2 was originally set for Fall 2017, then slipped to Spring 2018, and finally landed in Fall 2018. A similar pattern could unfold for GTA 6.

That said, Schreier added that the November 2026 date feels more realistic than previous targets. Even when the May 2026 date was announced, insiders were skeptical. There’s relatively more confidence in the November window.

No PC Version, PlayStation Is the Focus

GTA 6 will launch exclusively on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, with the PC version coming later. According to Schreier, the majority of sales will be on PlayStation, and the game will significantly drive console sales. Sony is expected to shape its entire 2026 release calendar around GTA 6.

Source: Jason Schreier, Button Mash Podcast (The Ringer-Verse), January 2026

Minecraft's Latest Update Completely Redesigns Baby Mobs: Here's Everything That Changed

Nomad — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 20:40:00 GMT

Minecraft Minecraft update Minecraft 2026

Minecraft's Latest Update Completely Redesigns Baby Mobs: Here's Everything That Changed

Nomad

• January 7, 2026

No Longer Just Scaled-Down Adults

Mojang has announced new baby mob designs now entering testing for Minecraft. With this update, eight different farm animal babies are being completely redesigned from scratch.

Until now, baby mobs in Minecraft were simply scaled-down versions of adult models with oversized heads. The new update gives each baby mob its own unique textures and models. According to Game Director Agnes Larsson, this change brings an entirely new personality to baby mobs. For example, while adult mobs have two-pixel eyes, the new baby designs feature single-pixel eyes.

The redesigned animals include wolf pups, kittens, piglets, calves, baby chickens, baby ocelots, lambs, and baby rabbits.

Which Animals Changed?

Here’s the full breakdown of the redesigned baby mobs:

Wolf pups: All nine variants now feature a chunkier design. They can be found across different biomes and tamed with bones.

Kittens: All eleven cat variants have been updated. They spawn in villages and swamp huts and can be tamed with raw cod or salmon.

Baby chickens: Among the game’s smallest baby mobs. Three variants exist for cold, temperate, and warm biomes.

Rabbits: Both baby and adult rabbits received fluffier tails and fur.

Piglets: Three variants are available—fluffy ones in cold biomes, brown-coated in warm biomes, and the classic pink in temperate biomes.

Lambs: Eleven different colored lambs now look like tiny puffs of wool with legs.

Calves: Five calf variants graze across different pastures based on their native climate.

Baby ocelots: Found in jungle biomes, baby ocelots have been redesigned with big green eyes and tiny blocky paws.

Name Tags Are Now Craftable

Good news for those wanting to name all these adorable babies: Name tags can now be crafted using paper and any metal nugget. Recent updates have been making previously rare items more accessible in Minecraft. It remains to be seen where this trend leads.

Java Feature Comes to Bedrock

Another feature has been ported from Java Edition to Bedrock Edition: Spawn eggs can now be used on adult mobs to spawn their baby versions.

These features are available for testing in Java Edition snapshots and Bedrock Edition beta/preview. Mojang is actively seeking player feedback.

A valid question is circulating within the Minecraft community: With so much content that could be added to the game, were baby mob designs really the priority? Mojang may need to reconsider this “small but cute” update strategy. As players, we’re hoping for more substantial content updates.

007 First Light System Requirements Revealed

G-Man — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 19:39:26 GMT

007 First Light James Bond game IO Interactive

007 First Light System Requirements Revealed

G-Man

• January 6, 2026

007: First Light Release Date and System Requirements Announced

IO Interactive and Amazon MGM Studios have broken their silence on the highly anticipated James Bond game, 007: First Light. The studio, best known for the HITMAN franchise, announced that the new title will launch on May 27, 2026, while also sharing technical details that closely concern PC gamers regarding their collaboration with NVIDIA.

Focusing on James Bond’s origin story and taking players back to 007’s younger years, the production is being developed using the latest version of IO Interactive’s award-winning Glacier engine.

A Powerful Collaboration with NVIDIA: DLSS 4 Technology

In a newly released developer diary, IO Interactive CTO Ulas Karademir stated that the PC version of the game is being developed in close collaboration with NVIDIA. 007: First Light will ship with support for NVIDIA’s latest technologies, including DLSS 4 and Multi Frame Generation.

The development team highlighted that they have created a new volumetric smoke and fog system, never used before, specifically to enhance atmospheric depth. Additionally, it was emphasized that the game’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) system is based on the mechanics of the studio’s previous work, the Hitman series, but has been taken to a much more advanced level in terms of interaction and believability.

007: First Light PC System Requirements

Here are the official system requirements revealed:

Feature	Minimum (1080p / 30 FPS)	Recommended (1080p / 60 FPS)
Processor	Intel Core i5 9500K / AMD Ryzen 5 3500	Intel Core i5 13500 / AMD Ryzen 5 7600
Graphics Card	NVIDIA GTX 1660 / AMD RX 5700	NVIDIA RTX 3060 Ti / AMD RX 6700 XT
RAM	16 GB	32 GB
VRAM	8 GB	12 GB
Storage	80 GB	80 GB
OS	Windows 10/11 (64-bit)	Windows 10/11 (64-bit)

The answer to the question “How many GB is 007: First Light?” is now clear: The game will take up 80 GB of storage space on your computer and will require at least 16 GB of RAM.

Platforms and Pre-Order Bonuses

007: First Light will launch on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and the newcomers to the handheld console market, Xbox ROG Ally X and Nintendo Switch 2.

The game is currently available for pre-order. It has been announced that players who pre-order the standard version will be upgraded to the Deluxe Edition for free. This edition offers players 24-hour early access as well as exclusive in-game skins and outfits.

New Weapon 'Bandit' Hits VALORANT: Here's the Breakdown of Patch 12.00

Nomad — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 15:27:20 GMT

valorant patch 12.00 valorant new weapon bandit valorant breeze rework

New Weapon 'Bandit' Hits VALORANT: Here's the Breakdown of Patch 12.00

Nomad

• January 6, 2026

It’s rare for a single VALORANT patch to touch nearly every core system in the game, but Patch 12.00 does exactly that. Riot Games has officially launched Season 2026 with what may be the most comprehensive update since Episode releases became the norm—featuring a completely reworked Breeze, a new sidearm weapon, six agent adjustments, and sweeping changes to competitive integrity and player behavior systems.

For players returning from the holiday break, this patch demands attention. From tactical map updates to a brand-new limited-time mode, the changes here will reshape how matches are played across every skill tier.

The Breeze Rework: Riot’s Biggest Map Overhaul Yet

The headline change is undoubtedly the return of Breeze, which has received what Riot describes as its “biggest map rework yet.” The tropical map, long criticized for its sprawling sightlines and angle-heavy design, has been significantly tightened. According to the patch notes, the rework reduces angle complexity, shrinks open spaces, and improves rotation times for defenders—essentially addressing the core complaints that led to its removal from the competitive pool.

In a notable move, Riot is offering a learning curve buffer: for the first two weeks, ranked rating losses on Breeze are reduced by 50%, while wins remain at full value. This is a pragmatic acknowledgment that old setups and strategies won’t translate to the new layout, and players will need time to adapt.

Sunset has been rotated out of the Competitive and Deathmatch queues to make room.

A New Sheriff in Town: The Bandit Sidearm

The introduction of the Bandit marks the first new sidearm in VALORANT in a considerable time. Priced at 600 credits, it slots directly between the Ghost (500) and Sheriff (800), offering one-tap headshot potential with an 8-round magazine. With medium wall penetration and a 1.5-second reload, the Bandit is clearly designed for precision-focused players who want Sheriff-like lethality without the economic commitment.

This addition is significant for eco-round dynamics. The Ghost has long dominated light buy rounds for its versatility, while the Sheriff remained a high-risk, high-reward option. The Bandit could create a new middle ground—particularly appealing to players confident in their aim but not willing to gamble 800 credits on a pistol.

Agent Adjustments: Harbor and Tejo Get Meaningful Power

While Breach, Brimstone, Sage, and Vyse all receive quality-of-life or minor power adjustments, the real stories here are Harbor and Tejo.

Harbor’s reworked abilities from a previous patch failed to make an impact, and Riot is responding aggressively. Storm Surge’s slow duration jumps from 0.6 seconds to a full 2 seconds, and its explosion no longer requires line of sight to apply nearsight. Reckoning receives the same slow duration buff. These are substantial changes that could finally give Harbor the aggressive site-take utility he was designed to provide.

Tejo, the newer Initiator, sees his Stealth Drone shift from a snapshot reveal to a full reveal—a change that dramatically increases the ability’s utility for coordinated plays. His Special Delivery now deals up to 35 damage at the center of the explosion, adding a new dimension to his flushing kit.

Competitive Integrity and Player Behavior

Beyond gameplay, Riot is tightening its grip on competitive integrity. Starting with this patch, EU players detected for account sharing—as well as all Ascendant and above players—must enable Riot Mobile multi-factor authentication to access Competitive queue. This is a direct response to persistent account sharing and boosting issues at higher ranks.

The new Behavior Standing system now displays active penalties directly on the Social Panel, and the Riot Games Community Pact replaces the old Community Code. Players should expect to recommit to it annually. Notably, Riot is promising “firmer penalties sooner” for frequent or severe voice and text chat offenses.

Editorial Analysis: What This Patch Signals

Patch 12.00 isn’t just a collection of balance tweaks—it’s a statement of intent for Season 2026. The Breeze rework demonstrates Riot’s willingness to fundamentally rebuild maps rather than let them languish outside the competitive pool. The 50% RR loss reduction is a rare concession to player frustration and suggests the studio is paying close attention to how learning curves affect ranked anxiety.

The Bandit’s introduction is more than a new gun; it’s an acknowledgment that sidearm diversity has been lacking. If its performance matches its positioning, expect to see it become a staple of anti-eco and save rounds, potentially shifting the Ghost’s near-monopoly.

The MFA requirement for high-elo EU players is a measured step toward addressing ranked integrity—a topic that has plagued VALORANT’s competitive ecosystem for years. However, requiring mobile authentication will inevitably frustrate some legitimate players. Riot’s messaging emphasizes this as necessary friction.

The agent changes favor aggressive, coordinated play. Harbor and Tejo’s buffs reward teams that can capitalize on brief windows of advantage, while the adjustments to Breach and Vyse restore some lost viability. These aren’t flashy reworks, but they reflect a philosophy of incremental correction rather than dramatic overhauls.

What to Watch Next

Players should prioritize learning the new Breeze layout before the two-week RR protection ends. The Bandit’s reception in ranked play will determine whether it carves out a genuine niche or gets overshadowed by existing sidearm choices. Watch for professional teams to experiment with the buffed Harbor and Tejo in upcoming VCT competition.

The All Random, One Site limited-time mode offers a casual counterbalance to the patch’s competitive intensity—and it’s worth experiencing before it rotates out.

One thing is clear: Riot isn’t coasting into 2026. This patch sets an ambitious tone for the year ahead.

Star Wars Outlaws and Resident Evil Village Coming to Xbox Game Pass

G-Man — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 14:34:52 GMT

Xbox Game Pass Star Wars Outlaws Resident Evil Village

Star Wars Outlaws and Resident Evil Village Coming to Xbox Game Pass

G-Man

• January 6, 2026

Xbox Game Pass January 2026 Lineup: Star Wars Outlaws and Resident Evil Village Announced

Xbox has revealed the games joining the Game Pass library in the first month of 2026, along with their respective subscription tier availability. According to the announcement, Ubisoft’s open-world Star Wars adventure Star Wars Outlaws will be exclusive to Ultimate and PC subscribers, while Resident Evil Village arrives with broader coverage.

Here’s the breakdown of January’s first wave highlights and their included Game Pass tiers:

Available Today

Brews & Bastards (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
- Included in: Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass
- This action-packed twin-stick shooter joins the library starting today.
Little Nightmares Enhanced Edition (Cloud, Handheld, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
- Included in: Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass
- The atmospheric horror classic returns with 4K and 60 FPS support in this enhanced version.

Coming Soon

January 7

Atomfall (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC)
- Included in: Game Pass Premium
- This survival game set in post-nuclear disaster England arrives exclusively for Premium subscribers.
Lost in Random: The Eternal Die (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC)
- Included in: Game Pass Premium
- The sequel blending tactical dice mechanics with action launches for Premium members.
Rematch (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
- Included in: Game Pass Premium
- This 5v5 street football experience emphasizes team play.
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine – Master Crafted Edition (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
- Included in: Game Pass Premium
- The cult action game arrives in Premium with overhauled graphics and gameplay improvements.

January 8

Final Fantasy (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC)
- Included in: Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass
- The modernized 2D pixel remaster of the legendary series debut.

January 13

Star Wars Outlaws (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
- Included in: Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass
- The series’ first open-world game is notably absent from Premium, available only to Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers. This galactic underworld adventure featuring Kay Vess is the month’s most anticipated addition.

January 15

My Little Pony: A Zephyr Heights Mystery (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC)
- Included in: Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass

January 20

Resident Evil Village (Cloud, Console, and PC)
- Included in: Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass
- The eighth installment continuing Ethan Winters’ story arrives across all major tiers late in the month.
MIO: Memories in Orbit (Cloud, Handheld, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
- Included in: Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass
- This day-one metroidvania title is not listed in the Premium catalog.

Leaving January 15

The following titles will depart the library on the specified date. Members can purchase these games with up to 20% discount before they leave.

Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn
Neon White
Road 96
The Ascent
The Grinch Christmas Adventures

NVIDIA DLSS 4.5 Announced: 4K 240 FPS Path Tracing Gaming Is Now a Reality

G-Man — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 04:52:56 GMT

DLSS 4.5 NVIDIA DLSS 4.5 RTX 50 series

NVIDIA DLSS 4.5 Announced: 4K 240 FPS Path Tracing Gaming Is Now a Reality

G-Man

• January 6, 2026

NVIDIA DLSS 4.5 Makes 4K 240Hz Path Tracing Gaming a Reality

NVIDIA unveiled DLSS 4.5 at CES 2026. The latest version introduces Dynamic Multi Frame Generation and 6X Multi Frame Generation modes, delivering path tracing-enabled 240+ fps gaming to GeForce RTX 50 series owners.

What’s New in DLSS 4.5?

Announced at NVIDIA’s CES 2026 showcase, DLSS 4.5 promises a significant leap in gaming performance. The technology dynamically boosts performance by generating up to five additional frames for every traditionally rendered frame.

Key Features

Dynamic Multi Frame Generation: Dynamically scales performance based on scene complexity
6X Multi Frame Generation: Generates five additional frames per rendered frame
Second-Generation Transformer Model: Enhanced image quality for DLSS Super Resolution
240+ FPS with Path Tracing: Now achievable on GeForce RTX 50 series GPUs

Dynamic Multi Frame Generation and 6X mode are expected to launch this spring. The second-generation transformer model is available now through the NVIDIA App for all GeForce RTX GPUs.

Support for Over 400 Games and Apps

The new transformer model for DLSS Super Resolution brings improved image quality to over 400 games and apps. DLSS 4 with Multi Frame Generation now supports more than 250 titles.DLSS 4 launched at CES last year with 75 supported games. That number has grown significantly, with 2025’s most-played titles joining the list, including ARC Raiders, Battlefield 6, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and Where Winds Meet.

Games Launching with DLSS Support

Game	Technology Support
007 First Light	DLSS 4, RTX
Phantom Blade Zero	DLSS 4, RTX
PRAGMATA	DLSS 4, RTX
Resident Evil Requiem	DLSS 4, RTX
Active Matter	DLSS 4, RTX
DEFECT	DLSS 4, RTX
Screamer	DLSS 4, RTX

Perfect Pairing with G-SYNC Pulsar

The high frame rates enabled by DLSS 4.5 reach their full potential when paired with next-generation G-SYNC Pulsar monitors.

G-SYNC Pulsar delivers perceived motion clarity exceeding 1,000Hz through variable frequency backlight strobing technology. In addition to tear-free gaming, Ambient Adaptive Technology automatically adjusts color temperature and brightness based on ambient lighting conditions.

G-SYNC Pulsar monitors are now available.

RTX Remix Logic: Modern Graphics for Classic Games

Alongside DLSS 4.5, NVIDIA introduced the RTX Remix Logic update. This enables modders to add dynamic graphics effects to classic games.

Over 900 configurable settings
Real-time effects that react to in-game events
Support for 165+ classic titles
No source code access required

The update will be available through the NVIDIA App later this month.

AI-Powered NPCs with NVIDIA ACE

NVIDIA also shared developments in game AI. NVIDIA ACE technology transforms NPCs into AI-driven autonomous characters.

In Total War: PHARAOH, an AI-powered advisor helps players learn the game’s complex systems. In PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS, PUBG Ally features long-term memory, allowing it to remember and reference past matches and gameplay interactions.

PUBG Ally will enter testing in the first half of this year, available in English, Korean, and Chinese.

GeForce NOW Expands to More Devices

Cloud gaming service GeForce NOW is bringing DLSS technology to more platforms:

Native apps for Linux and Amazon Fire TV Stick
HOTAS (joystick and throttle) support for flight simulators
GeForce RTX 5080-class performance

Games including 007 First Light, Resident Evil Requiem, and Crimson Desert will be available on day one via the cloud.

Everything Else NVIDIA Announced at CES 2026

Nvidia’s CES 2026 keynote covered a wide range of new technologies and partnerships beyond DLSS 4.5.

Rubin Platform: The Next Engine for AI

NVIDIA unveiled its next-generation computing platform, named after American astronomer Vera Rubin. Succeeding the Blackwell architecture, Rubin is the company’s first “extreme-codesigned” six-chip AI platform, now in full production.

Platform components include:

Rubin GPUs: 50 petaflops of NVFP4 inference
Vera CPUs: Optimized for data movement and agentic processing
NVLink 6: Scalable networking technology
BlueField-4 DPU and ConnectX-9 SuperNIC

The Rubin platform promises to deliver AI tokens at one-tenth the cost.

Mercedes-Benz CLA: NVIDIA DRIVE AV Hits the Road

A major autonomous driving partnership was announced. The Mercedes-Benz CLA will be the first passenger car featuring NVIDIA DRIVE full-stack software, launching in the U.S. this year.

Dual-stack architecture: End-to-end AI for core driving, classical system for safety
NVIDIA Halos safety framework for redundancy
Urban navigation, proactive collision avoidance, automated parkingThe CLA, which received a five-star EuroNCAP safety rating, marks the beginning of AI-defined transportation.

Alpamayo: Open Models for Autonomous Driving

NVIDIA continues its open-source push in autonomous vehicle development with Alpamayo:

Alpamayo R1: The first open-source reasoning VLA model for autonomous driving
AlpaSim: Open-source simulation framework for high-fidelity testing
Over 1,700 hours of driving data covering rare edge cases

The model can not only perceive its environment but also explain its actions.

DRIVE Hyperion Ecosystem

The Level 4 autonomy-ready DRIVE Hyperion platform continues to expand:

Astemo, Bosch, Magna, Quanta, and ZF Group are developing electronic control units
Aeva, Arbe, Hesai, Omnivision, and Sony have certified their sensor suites
Dual DRIVE AGX Thor chips deliver over 2,000 FP4 teraflops of compute power

RTX AI PC: A Revolution in Video and Image Generation

LTX-2 Model

Lightricks’ LTX-2 model can generate up to 20 seconds of 4K video. It features built-in audio and multi-keyframe support.

ComfyUI Optimizations

60% less VRAM and 3x speed with NVFP4 format on RTX 50 series
RTX Video Super Resolution upscales to 4K in seconds

Small Language Models

Performance improvements of up to 35% for Ollama and llama.cpp.

DGX Spark: Desktop AI Supercomputer

The compact AI supercomputer DGX Spark has achieved a 2.6x performance boost since launch. Ideal for LLM testing and prototyping agentic workflows.

BlueField-4 and Enterprise Security

BlueField DPU has been enhanced with new security platforms integrated into the NVIDIA Enterprise AI Factory validated design:

Armis Centrix
Check Point Infinity AI Cloud Protect
Fortinet FortiGate VM
Palo Alto Networks Prisma AIRS
Red Hat OpenShift
Trend Vision One

Open Models

NVIDIA is offering open models across six key domains:

Domain	Model Family
Healthcare	Clara
Climate Science	Earth-2
Reasoning & Multimodal	Nemotron
Robotics & Simulation	Cosmos
Embodied Intelligence	GR00T
Autonomous Driving	Alpamayo

Nemotron Speech delivers real-time speech recognition 10x faster than comparable models. Cosmos Reason 2 enables robots to interact with the physical world with greater accuracy.

NVIDIA Broadcast 2.1

The Virtual Key Light effect for streamers is now available on RTX 3060 desktop GPUs and above. Professional broadcast-style lighting options have been added.

Hyperlink: AI-Powered Video Search

Nexa.ai’s Hyperlink app transforms RTX PCs into a searchable knowledge base. The new beta version can search video content for objects, actions, and speech.

30 seconds per gigabyte indexing on RTX 5090
3-second response time
All data processed locally for privacy

That’s a wrap on NVIDIA’s major announcements at CES 2026! With DLSS 4.5 bringing unprecedented performance to path-traced gaming and a host of AI and automotive innovations, NVIDIA continues to push the boundaries of technology. Stay tuned for more updates as these technologies roll out throughout the year.

Rainbow Six Siege Hacked Again!

G-Man — Sun, 04 Jan 2026 21:29:36 GMT

rainbow six siege rainbow six siege hack r6 hack allegations

Rainbow Six Siege Hacked Again!

G-Man

• January 4, 2026

Rainbow Six Siege Under Attack Again

Ubisoft’s popular tactical shooter Rainbow Six Siege has been hit by a new wave of cyber attacks as of January 4, 2026, following recent security vulnerabilities. While global server outages from the previous incident were still ongoing, hackers reportedly began banning players once again.

Ubisoft’s infrastructure, which recently made headlines after billions of credits were illegally added to user accounts, suffered a second blow before it could fully recover. During the previous incident, hackers first banned all players and, a few hours later, distributed billions of credits to everyone. This time, hackers reportedly chose to issue 67-day bans specifically to streamers.

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Many Rainbow Six Siege content creators, including well-known community figure VarsityGaming, were suddenly removed from the game during live broadcasts after receiving unexpected 67-day bans.

On Ubisoft’s side, no detailed technical report has yet been shared regarding the source or scope of the previous attack. As players continue to worry about account security, there is still no timeline for when the servers are expected to return to a stable state.

This $20 Star Wars Game Now Sells for $500 Thanks to PS5 Jailbreak Discovery

Skyline — Sun, 04 Jan 2026 12:00:00 GMT

PS5 jailbreak Star Wars Racer Revenge PS5 hack

This $20 Star Wars Game Now Sells for $500 Thanks to PS5 Jailbreak Discovery

Skyline

• January 4, 2026

More than twenty years after its original release, Star Wars Episode I: Racer Revenge has resurfaced in an entirely unexpected role. The 2002 pod-racing sequel, long considered a minor footnote in Star Wars gaming history, is now at the center of a significant PlayStation 5 jailbreak breakthrough.

The twist is that this has little to do with the game itself. Instead, it’s the PS4 physical port released by Limited Run Games in 2020 that has become a key exploit entry point for PS5 firmware 12.00, exposing uncomfortable truths about backward compatibility, legacy code, and Sony’s long-term security model.

From Obscure Remaster to Exploit Vector

Star Wars Episode I: Racer Revenge originally launched on PlayStation 2 in 2002 as a sequel to the more popular Episode I: Racer. It was serviceable but unremarkable, and it never achieved the cult status of its predecessor. Nearly two decades later, Limited Run Games brought it back as a physical-only PS4 release, with an estimated production run of around 8,500 copies.

That PS4 disc, identified internally as CUSA-03474, runs on PlayStation 5 through Sony’s backward compatibility layer. This is where the story turns technical. In 2023, security researcher DesignerLeake identified a vulnerability in the game’s save data handling. Hackers mast1core and gezine_dev later demonstrated that this flaw could be weaponized on PS5 firmware 12.00.

The vulnerability is a classic memory buffer overflow triggered during save data parsing. When the malformed data is loaded, it overwrites fixed-size memory buffers, allowing attackers to hijack control flow using return-oriented programming or direct shellcode injection. Crucially, this happens inside the PS4 backward compatibility environment on PS5.

A proof-of-concept video circulated privately before spreading wider, showing arbitrary code execution achieved via the physical disc. The exploit has since been dubbed “mast1core,” and it’s notable for being disc-based rather than relying on downloadable software.

Why This Exploit Is Different

Most console jailbreaks rely on software vulnerabilities that platform holders can eventually patch. This case is more complicated.

The exploit operates inside the PS5’s PS4 backward compatibility layer, a complex emulation and translation environment designed to run legacy binaries. While Sony can update firmware, this particular vulnerability is tied to a specific game disc and its data handling logic. Digital versions are reportedly patched or server-checked, but the physical disc remains viable.

More importantly, this exploit is being combined with previously leaked PS5 boot ROM keys, which exist at a hardware level and cannot be revoked. Together, these elements enable privilege escalation from userland into the PS5 kernel, opening the door to full system access and custom firmware installation.

In other words, this isn’t just another temporary exploit. It’s a supply-chain weakness created by legacy code running inside a modern system, a problem that’s much harder to solve retroactively.

Editorial Analysis: A Backward Compatibility Trade-Off

Sony has rightly earned praise for its robust backward compatibility support. Running thousands of PS4 titles on PS5 with minimal friction is a consumer-friendly move, especially compared to more fragmented approaches elsewhere in the industry. But Racer Revenge highlights the long-term cost of that decision.

Backward compatibility isn’t just a technical challenge; it’s a security liability. Every legacy binary is effectively a time capsule of older coding standards and assumptions, many of which predate modern exploit mitigation techniques. Sony’s BC layer acts as a bridge, but bridges can carry vulnerabilities across generations.

What makes this case particularly uncomfortable for Sony is that it’s title-specific and disc-bound. Pulling the game from digital storefronts doesn’t solve the problem. Patching firmware may not either, especially if authentication and execution rely on immutable boot-level components.

For players, this raises familiar ethical and practical debates. Jailbreaks enable homebrew, preservation, and research, but they also facilitate piracy. Sony has historically responded aggressively to exploits, but here the usual levers may not work.

There’s also a cultural impact. Limited Run Games releases are marketed as collectibles, not security risks. Yet scarcity has now transformed Racer Revenge into a de facto hardware key, driving resale prices from roughly $20 to $300–$500 almost overnight. This creates a perverse incentive structure where obscure games gain value not for their content, but for their vulnerabilities.

What to Watch Next

The exploit is not yet publicly packaged for mainstream users, though hackers have indicated that a more polished release is coming. If that happens, Sony’s response, or lack of one, will be telling. Legal pressure, firmware mitigations, or changes to disc authentication are all possible, but none are straightforward.

For collectors, Racer Revenge has suddenly become one of the most unusual “holy grails” of the PS4 era. For developers and platform holders, it’s a cautionary tale about how legacy support can echo forward in unintended ways.

And for the broader industry, this episode underscores a growing reality: as consoles increasingly rely on layered compatibility rather than clean generational breaks, yesterday’s code can become tomorrow’s exploit.

Bright Memory Developer Announces New Mafia-Themed TPS Game

G-Man — Sat, 03 Jan 2026 12:34:26 GMT

Bright Memory FYQD-Studio new TPS game

Bright Memory Developer Announces New Mafia-Themed TPS Game

G-Man

• January 3, 2026

Bright Memory Developer FYQD-Studio Announces New TPS Game

FYQD-Studio, the indie developer behind the Bright Memory series, has announced its new third-person shooter (TPS) set in the Republic of China era. After releasing Bright Memory: Infinite in 2021 and going relatively quiet, the team is finally returning with a new project.

Chaotic Atmosphere in Republic of China Era

According to the initial details shared, the game takes place during the Republic of China period. Set in a time of collapsing order and prevailing chaos, the title will explore violence spreading through the streets, conspiracies, and clashing rival gangs fighting in the shadows.

Development Currently Underway

FYQD-Studio confirmed the game is currently in active development. The team stated they’re particularly focused on art design and animation processes at this stage. Alongside the announcement, exclusive in-game screenshots were shared, showcasing the game’s dark and tense atmosphere.

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The project, which hasn’t been officially named yet, is expected to receive more information in the coming period.

Epic Games Daily Free Games: 17 Games to Be Distributed

G-Man — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 17:20:16 GMT

Epic Games free games Epic Games holiday sale 2025 free games

Epic Games Daily Free Games: 17 Games to Be Distributed

G-Man

• December 18, 2025

Epic Games Store Holiday Sale Begins: 17 Free Games to Be Distributed

Epic Games Store’s eagerly anticipated holiday sale and free game campaign has officially started. Running until January 8th, the campaign offers discounts of up to 95% and will distribute a total of 17 different titles for free.

Daily Free Game Marathon Has Started

Following last week’s Hogwarts Legacy giveaway, Epic Games Store has launched its daily free game series starting today. Throughout the campaign, a new game will become available every day at 4:00 PM UTC (8:00 AM PST / 11:00 AM EST). Once added to the library during the specified period, these games will remain permanently in players’ collections.

The first free game of the holiday marathon is Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel, an action-packed title.

Free Game List (Will Be Updated)

The games that Epic Games Store will distribute throughout the campaign are not yet fully revealed. However, we usually learn about the game approximately one hour before it becomes free. We will update the list as soon as we learn about the games.

December 11 - 18: Hogwarts Legacy
December 18: Jotunnslayer: Hordes of Hel
December 19: Eternights
December 20: Blood West
December 21: Sorry We’re Closed
December 22: Paradise Killer
December 23: Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
December 24: The Callisto Protocol
December 25: Disco Elysium - The Final Cut
December 26: We Were Here Together
December 27: Cassette Beasts
December 28: SKALD Against the Black Priory
December 29: Viewfinder
December 30: Trine Classic Collection
December 31: Chivalry 2
January 1 - 8: Total War: THREE KINGDOMS
January 1 - 8: Wildgate

Sales and Epic Rewards

Alongside the free games, a major sale is running across the store. Prices have been reduced on thousands of products, from AAA titles to indie games, and the “Epic Rewards” rate earned from purchases has been increased to 20% during the campaign. This allows users to earn back a portion of their spending as balance to use on future purchases.

Don’t set your expectations too high for the free games, and don’t believe the ”RDR2, Cyberpunk 2077 WILL BE FREE!” content circulating on social media and clickbait news sites.

18 Games Coming in January 2026: Dynasty Warriors, Hytale and More

Nomad — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 09:07:55 GMT

january 2026 games new upcoming games 2026 game calendar

18 Games Coming in January 2026: Dynasty Warriors, Hytale and More

Nomad

• January 1, 2026

Video Games Coming in January 2026

The first month of the new year is shaping up to be an exciting time for gaming enthusiasts. Here are the major releases expected in January 2026:

January 5 – DuneCrawl

Platforms: PC | Developer: AlientrapTake control of massive, cannon-laden walking crustaceans and embark on adventures across vast deserts. This cooperative action-adventure game inspired by Sea of Thieves can be played solo or with up to four friends. Defend towns, capture enemy vessels, and discover treasures in hand-drawn desert landscapes.

January 6 – StarRupture (Early Access)

Platforms: PC | Developer: Creepy JarFrom the creators of Green Hell, an open-world base-building and survival simulation with dynamic disaster cycles.

January 9 – Pathologic 3

Platforms: PC | Developer: Ice-Pick Lodge / HypeTrainIn the third installment of the cult classic series, we take on the role of Dr. Daniil Dankovsky arriving in a town besieged by a mysterious plague. The game features time-travel mechanics allowing you to relive and alter key events. You have 12 days to save the town; every choice is crucial.

January 10 – Code Violet

Platforms: PS5 | Developer: TeamKill MediaA new action title exclusive to PS5 that generates intrigue with its striking visual style. This will probably be a game heavily mocked on social media.

January 13 – Hytale (Early Access)

Platforms: PC | Developer: Hypixel Studios

After being canceled by Riot Games and then bought back by its original creators, Hytale is finally launching in early access. This sandbox game inspired by Minecraft’s spirit promises powerful modding tools and creative freedom. Developers note this is a “true early access” and the game may not be complete yet.

January 13 – Temirana: The Lucky Princess and the Tragic Knights

Platforms: Nintendo Switch | Developer: ichicolumn / Idea FactoryAn otome visual novel telling the story of Princess Cecilia, the third princess of the Temirana Kingdom known as the “cursed princess.” With the ability to sense danger beforehand, the princess hires five “Tragic Knights” as her guards. You can progress through five different routes filled with political intrigue, romance, and drama.

January 14 – Streetdog BMX

Platforms: PC | Developer: Yeah Us! Games / Null GamesAn arcade-style BMX game for fans of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater and Dave Mirra BMX. Perform acrobatic tricks, chain combos, and customize your bike across expansive maps. Discover countless wallrides, gaps, and ramps across six different maps.

January 15 – Animal Crossing: New Horizons – NS2 Edition

Platforms: Nintendo Switch 2 | Developer: NintendoThe beloved life simulation comes to the new console with expanded content utilizing Nintendo Switch 2’s features.

January 15 – The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon

Platforms: PS5, PS4, NS2, Switch, PC | Developer: Nihon Falcom / NIS AmericaThe latest chapter in the deeply story-driven JRPG series set on the Zemuria continent. An unmissable adventure for Trails series fans.

January 16 – Brokenlore: Unfollow

Platforms: PS5, PC | Developer: Serafini ProductionsA first-person horror game addressing social media bullying and its psychological effects. Experience the dark side of the digital age.

January 20 – Mio: Memories in Orbit

Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series, NS2 | Developer: Douze DixièmesAn artistic Metroidvania set on an abandoned massive spaceship (The Vessel). An indie production that stands out with its visual design and atmosphere.

January 22 – Dynasty Warriors: Origins

Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series, NS2 | Developer: Omega Force / Koei TecmoA tactical action game returning to the roots of the musou genre, offering massive battlefields. Get ready to join the chaotic battles of the Three Kingdoms period.

January 22 – Hermit and Pig

Platforms: PC | Developer: Heavy LunchA hermit and his truffle-hunting pig pursue a corporate conspiracy. This turn-based RPG inspired by Earthbound and Paper Mario features a combat system enhanced with fighting game-style button combinations. Even the character’s social anxiety is incorporated into the game mechanics!

January 22 – SEGA Football Club Champions

Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, iOS, Android | Developer: SEGAA free-to-play FIFPRO-licensed football club management simulation running on the Football Manager engine. Designed as the global evolution of Japan’s “SakaTsuku” series, the game offers cross-play and cross-save support.

January 26 – Highguard

Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series | Developer: Wildlight EntertainmentA new free-to-play PvP raid FPS from Apex Legends and Titanfall developers. Fight for control of a legendary continent as a “Warden.” Announced at The Game Awards 2025, the game was developed in secret for four years.

January 29 – Cairn

Platforms: PC, PS5 | Developer: The Game BakersA “survival climber” with realistic climbing mechanics from the creators of Furi and Haven. Experience Aava’s story as she attempts to be the first to reach the summit of the legendary Mount Kami. Plan your route, manage resources like pitons and chalk, and climb by manually controlling your character’s arms and legs.

January 29 – Dispatch

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, NS2 | Developer: AdHocThe story-driven game that took the world by storm late last year is coming to Nintendo platforms.

January 30 – CODE VEIN II

Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series, Switch, PC | Developer: Bandai NamcoThe sequel to the series known as “Anime Dark Souls.” A new threat called Luna Rapacis is turning Revenants into monsters. Travel back in time with a girl named Lou who can manipulate time to prevent the world’s collapse. Dynamic action filled with time-travel mechanics and enhanced vampire abilities awaits you.

January 2026 offers a wide spectrum of games, from indie productions to AAA titles, survival simulations to JRPGs. Which game are you most excited about? We’re waiting for your answers in the comments.

Steam Reveals the Best Games of 2025!

G-Man — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 18:29:15 GMT

Steam 2025 Steam best of 2025 most played Steam games

Steam Reveals the Best Games of 2025!

G-Man

• December 29, 2025

Steam Unveils Its 2025 “Best Of” List: Award Winners Fall Behind in the Charts

Steam has released its highly anticipated “Best of 2025” list, showcasing the titles that defined the past year. Based on gross revenue and peak concurrent player counts, the charts provide a clear snapshot of industry trends and what players actually spent their time on.The data was compiled as of December 15, 2025, with a final update scheduled for January 15, 2026. However, the current picture already reveals a striking disconnect between award show darlings and player favorites.

The Gap Between Critics and Players

The most notable takeaway from the list is the stark contrast between The Game Awards (TGA) results and Steam’s data. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, which took home the prestigious “Game of the Year” award at TGA, failed to crack the top 12 (Platinum tier) on Steam’s “Most Played” list. In the revenue-based “New Releases” chart, it only managed a spot in the Gold tier (ranks 13-24).In contrast, among the TGA Game of the Year nominees, only Kingdom Come: Deliverance II and Hollow Knight: Silksong managed to hold their ground in the upper echelons of the most-played rankings. This highlights a widening gap between what critics celebrate and where players actually invest their time.

The Top Earners of 2025

The Platinum tier of the “New Releases” list, ranked by gross revenue, was dominated by blockbuster AAA titles and long-awaited sequels.As expected, some of the year’s most talked-about releases—Elden Ring Nightreign, Battlefield™ 6, and Borderlands 4—claimed their spots at the very top. The years-in-the-making Hollow Knight: Silksong and the remastered classic The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered also earned Platinum status among the highest-grossing titles.Other Notable New Releases in Platinum:

Dune: Awakening
Monster Hunter Wilds
Sid Meier’s Civilization VII
EA SPORTS FC™ 26

The Most-Played Games by Player Count

The “Most Played” list, determined by concurrent player counts, tells a different story—one dominated by free-to-play competitive giants and timeless classics.Evergreen titles like Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2, PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS, and Apex Legends™ held firm in the Platinum tier. Meanwhile, 2025’s fresh contenders Marvel Rivals and Delta Force made a swift entrance into the big leagues.Indie darlings Stardew Valley and Terraria proved that age is just a number. Despite being years old, they maintained their player bases well enough to secure a spot in the Platinum tier—a rare feat for single-player and co-op experiences.Steam’s 2025 charts paint a picture of a remarkably diverse year where players showed equal enthusiasm for next-gen FPS experiences like Battlefield 6 and cozy classics like Stardew Valley.

CD PROJEKT Sells GOG Digital Gaming Platform to Co-Founder

G-Man — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 14:07:29 GMT

CD PROJEKT GOG acquisition Michał Kiciński

CD PROJEKT Sells GOG Digital Gaming Platform to Co-Founder

G-Man

• December 29, 2025

CD PROJEKT Sells Digital Gaming Platform GOG to Co-Founder Michał Kiciński

Polish gaming giant CD PROJEKT Group has announced the sale of its digital game distribution platform GOG (Good Old Games) to company co-founder and major shareholder Michał Kiciński. The deal, finalized on December 29, 2025, marks GOG’s return to independent operation after years under the CD PROJEKT umbrella.

$25.3 Million Acquisition Deal

According to official reports, the sale of 100% of GOG’s shares was completed for 90.7 million Polish zloty (approximately $25.3 million USD). Prior to the sale, GOG distributed approximately 44.2 million PLN ($12.3 million USD) to CD PROJEKT as dividends from previous years’ profits.

Kiciński financed the acquisition entirely through committed external funding without selling any of his existing CD PROJEKT shares.

Strategic Separation and New Focus

CD PROJEKT stated that this sale aligns with the group’s growth strategy. The company aims to redirect its resources and focus toward its core business: developing and publishing AAA-quality games within universes like The Witcher and Cyberpunk.

CD PROJEKT Joint CEO Michał Nowakowski commented, “GOG has been operating independently for a long time. Now it’s moving into very capable hands—one of its co-founders. Our focus will be entirely on our ambitious development roadmap and new high-quality products.”

GOG Will Maintain DRM-Free Philosophy

Michał Kiciński, one of GOG’s original founders in 2008, emphasized that the platform will remain true to its core values. He affirmed that GOG’s DRM-free structure—which ensures genuine ownership of purchased games—will be preserved.

“In a market flooded with countless low-quality games, timeless classics remain a safe harbor,” Kiciński noted. “GOG will continue focusing on both preserving classics and discovering new games with a retro spirit.”

Collaboration to Continue

While the companies are separating in terms of ownership, their commercial partnership will continue. Following the sale, the parties signed a new distribution agreement. Under this arrangement, current and future games developed by CD PROJEKT RED (including new The Witcher and Cyberpunk projects) will remain available on the GOG platform.

The transaction is expected to close on December 31, 2025, with financials reflected in the fourth quarter of 2025.

Rainbow Six Siege Hacked: Players Receive Billions in Free Credits

G-Man — Sat, 27 Dec 2025 13:13:08 GMT

ubisoft ubisoft hacked rainbow six siege hack

Rainbow Six Siege Hacked: Players Receive Billions in Free Credits

G-Man

• December 27, 2025

Rainbow Six Siege Servers Hacked: Players Receive Billions in Credits

On December 27, 2025, Rainbow Six Siege’s servers suffered a massive cyberattack. The incident occurred during the game’s 10th anniversary celebrations, affecting players across PC, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms, while Ubisoft has yet to issue an official statement.

How the Attack Unfolded

The attack began in the early morning hours (GMT) with a strange wave of bans. Players started getting banned from matches without cause, cited for “TOS Breach” (Terms of Service violation). Hackers weaponized the game’s notification system—which normally alerts all players when someone gets banned—as a propaganda tool. In-game messages appeared stating “Ubisoft Support was banned” and “Yves Guillemot found in Epstein files.”

The real chaos erupted around midday GMT on December 27. Players logging into the game discovered billions of R6 Credits, billions of Renown, and absurdly inflated account levels (some accounts exceeding level 210,000) in their accounts. Additionally, the game’s rarest cosmetics—including Glacier skins, Developer skins, and the Gold Clover Leaf—were automatically added to accounts.

The timing coincided with the Christmas and New Year holiday period. With most of the development team on vacation, a delayed response is expected. While Ubisoft’s official status page shows services as operational, the company has not yet addressed the incident. The hackers likely discovered the vulnerability long ago and waited for this holiday window to strike.

Experts suggest the fix will require shutting down servers and restoring from backups. However, identifying and patching the security hole could take considerably longer. The community anticipates Ubisoft will roll back accounts to their pre-hack state. Given Ubisoft’s track record, whether proper backups exist—and how long the restoration process might take—remains uncertain. If hackers gained this level of database access, they may have also compromised the backups or deleted them entirely. Despite all this, hours passed without even the servers being taken offline.

Historical Context

This incident represents not just the biggest security breach in Rainbow Six Siege history, but potentially one of the largest hacks in gaming industry history. While the game previously experienced the 2017 R6DB database attack and Ubisoft faced a cyberattack on internal systems in 2023, neither impacted the in-game economy on this scale. We’re looking at something potentially bigger than even the 2011 PSN attack. We’ll keep you updated as the situation develops.

Servers Shut Down (16:07 GMT)

Ubisoft has finally taken action.

Update: Siege and the Marketplace have been intentionally taken offline while the team focuses on resolving the issue.

When attempting to log into the game, players now see a maintenance notice.

Will Players Be Banned? (December 27, 21:27 GMT)

Ubisoft has confirmed that players who spent the credits added by hackers to their accounts will not be banned. The game’s servers will be rolled back to their state prior to 11:00 AM UTC today.

GTA Almost Left the US: Rockstar Once Considered Istanbul and Tokyo

G-Man — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 16:05:03 GMT

GTA VI GTA 6 Grand Theft Auto

GTA Almost Left the US: Rockstar Once Considered Istanbul and Tokyo

G-Man

• December 23, 2025

Former Rockstar Executive’s Exciting Confession: “GTA Tokyo Was on the Table”

Obbe Vermeij, technical director behind the legendary Grand Theft Auto titles GTA III, Vice City, San Andreas, and GTA IV, made waves in the gaming community with his interview with GamesHub. Currently working on his independent game Plentiful, Vermeij revealed the alternative locations discussed for the series’ future during his time at Rockstar North. Among these locations was Istanbul.

The GTA Tokyo Possibility

Vermeij confirmed that the Rockstar team frequently debated taking the series outside the United States. During these brainstorming sessions, cities like Rio de Janeiro, Moscow, and Istanbul were seriously considered. “The Tokyo project almost actually happened,” Vermeij revealed.

A different studio in Japan was set to work on GTA: Tokyo, using existing code to develop the game, but the project never came to fruition. Vermeij explains why the series stubbornly remained in the US:

People love having these wild ideas but then when you’ve got billions of dollars riding on it it’s too easy to go let’s do what we know again, and also America is basically the epicenter of Western culture, so everybody knows the cities, even people who haven’t been there. They have a mental image of the cities.

“GTA VI Won’t Be $100”

Addressing the recent social media rumors that “GTA VI will be gaming’s first $100 standard edition title,” the veteran developer finds these claims unrealistic.

According to Vermeij, Rockstar’s priority is reaching the widest possible player base. Reminding us that the company’s main revenue stream is GTA Online, Vermeij argues that raising the entry price and narrowing the player base wouldn’t be a smart move. Rather than inflating the price, the focus will be on the game’s long-term online revenue spanning years.

The Future of Technology and Costs

Another striking point in the interview concerns game development costs. Vermeij believes GTA VI will likely be the most expensive game ever made and will hold that record for a long time. However, he predicts that AI tools will eventually take over the “grunt work” for artists (animation rigging, crowd modeling, etc.), potentially reducing development costs and timelines in the future.

Why Miami (Vice City)?

Discussing the series’ return to Vice City, Vermeij considers this decision spot-on. He notes that the region’s wild nature, violence, and eccentricities perfectly align with the GTA universe.

Obbe Vermeij believes the series lost focus during the San Andreas era with its “let’s do everything” mentality, but became too serious with GTA IV. He expects GTA VI to strike the right balance, delivering both atmospheric depth and entertaining gameplay.

New James Bond Game 007 First Light Delayed

G-Man — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 14:38:43 GMT

007 First Light 007 First Light release date 007 First Light delayed

New James Bond Game 007 First Light Delayed

G-Man

• December 23, 2025

007 First Light delayed by two months: New release date set for May 2026

IO Interactive has announced that the release of its upcoming James Bond title, 007 First Light, has been delayed by two months. Previously scheduled to launch on March 27, 2026, the game is now set to release on May 27, 2026.

According to the studio, the delay was made to further improve the overall quality of the game. IO Interactive describes 007 First Light as the most ambitious project the team has taken on so far, aiming to deliver a definitive James Bond experience. The game brings together high-octane action sequences, espionage mechanics, globe-trotting missions, iconic Bond gadgets, and cinematic car chases.

The development team notes that 007 First Light is already fully playable from start to finish. However, the additional two months will be used for polishing and fine-tuning, with the goal of delivering a smoother and more balanced experience at launch.

As an independent developer and publisher, IO Interactive believes this decision will contribute to the long-term success of 007 First Light. The studio also thanked players for their patience and continued support since the game was first revealed.

More information about 007 First Light is expected to be shared in early 2026.

Gaming Legend Vince Zampella, Creator of Call of Duty and Battlefield, Passes Away

G-Man — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 16:57:39 GMT

vince zampella call of duty developer battlefield 6

Gaming Legend Vince Zampella, Creator of Call of Duty and Battlefield, Passes Away

G-Man

• December 22, 2025

A Dark Day for Gaming: Vince Zampella Passes Away

One of the most influential figures in modern FPS gaming, Vince Zampella—the executive producer behind Call of Duty, Titanfall, and most recently the Battlefield series—has passed away.

According to NBC Los Angeles, the renowned game developer lost his life following a traffic accident. California Highway Patrol (CHP) officials reported that the crash occurred around midday (approximately 9:45 AM GMT), when the vehicle veered off the road and struck a concrete barrier before catching fire. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene, while a passenger succumbed to injuries at the hospital.

A Career That Shaped the Industry

Vince Zampella played a pivotal role in defining the modern FPS (First Person Shooter) genre. In his early career, he co-founded Infinity Ward and was instrumental in creating the Call of Duty franchise, particularly transforming it into a global phenomenon with Modern Warfare.

Following a contentious split with Activision, Zampella established his independence by founding Respawn Entertainment. There, he cemented his legacy with the Titanfall series and later with Apex Legends, which reached millions of players worldwide. The studio also earned critical acclaim with story-driven titles like Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order.

Leading the Battlefield Renaissance

Continuing his career under Electronic Arts, Zampella had been spearheading the restructuring and revival of the Battlefield series in recent years. Taking control of DICE LA and the main franchise, the veteran developer was playing a key role in the development of Battlefield 6.

The gaming world has lost an extraordinary talent and a respected leader whose impact on the industry will be felt for generations to come.

Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey: First Official Trailer Released

G-Man — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 11:48:39 GMT

christopher nolan the odyssey the odyssey trailer

Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey: First Official Trailer Released

G-Man

• December 22, 2025

Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” First Trailer Released

Following Oppenheimer’s massive success, Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated next project has been revealed. Contrary to expectations of another sci-fi epic, the master filmmaker returns with The Odyssey, a mythological tale adapted from Homer’s legendary poem. Cinema’s most prestigious auteur, Christopher Nolan, has unveiled his new project The Odyssey with its first trailer, following the tremendous success of Oppenheimer. The production, developed through a collaboration between Universal Pictures and Syncopy, promises to transport audiences into the depths of Ancient Greek mythology.

Mythology Over Sci-Fi: An Unexpected Turn

Many cinephiles and critics anticipated Nolan would follow the Interstellar or Tenet trajectory with another mind-bending science fiction opus. Instead, the acclaimed director has pivoted to one of history’s oldest and most significant narratives, interpreting it through his distinctive cinematic lens. The film stars Matt Damon as Odysseus, chronicling a king’s perilous journey home following the Trojan War.

The approximately two-minute inaugural trailer reveals little about the plot’s specifics, yet delivers the tense, grandiose atmosphere synonymous with Nolan’s filmography.

The cast assembles Hollywood’s finest talent, as expected from a Nolan production. Leading the ensemble are Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, and Lupita Nyong’o, joined by Zendaya and Charlize Theron.

One striking detail from the released footage is the film’s technical foundation. The Odyssey carries the distinction of being “Shot entirely with IMAX film cameras,” signaling a visually unprecedented experience. The trailer’s dark tone, large-scale battle sequences, and maritime voyage segments demonstrate the director’s continued commitment to practical effects.

The film arrives in theaters on July 17, 2026.

The trailer’s overall atmosphere, somber tone, and visual palette strongly evoke Hellblade 2, one of gaming’s most distinctive recent releases. Read our Hellblade 2 review here.

2025 Steam Awards Voting Opens: Here Are the Game of the Year Nominees!

G-Man — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 13:13:44 GMT

steam awards 2025 game of the year 2025 steam awards nominees

2025 Steam Awards Voting Opens: Here Are the Game of the Year Nominees!

G-Man

• December 19, 2025

2025 Steam Awards Voting Opens: Here Are the Game of the Year Nominees

Valve has announced the finalists for the 2025 Steam Awards, the annual tradition where winners are determined entirely by community votes. Launching alongside the Winter Sale, the voting process brings this year’s most talked-about titles face-to-face. Games that managed to stand out among thousands of releases throughout 2025 are now competing to be crowned “the best” across various categories.

The voting period, which opened with the Winter Sale, will run until January 3rd at 18:00 UTC (21:00 GMT+3). Players can cast their votes for their favorite nominees in each category through their Steam accounts. Winners will be announced immediately after voting concludes.

Fierce Competition for Game of the Year

This year’s biggest prize, the “Game of the Year” category, features some particularly strong contenders. We’ll be watching the battle between the long-awaited Hollow Knight: Silksong, which made a massive splash with its release, the historically immersive Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, which has been making waves across social media.

Here are all the categories and finalists for the 2025 Steam Awards:

🏆 Game of the Year

Titles that dominated the year with compelling gameplay, gripping stories, and flawless design:

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
ARC Raiders
Dispatch
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Hollow Knight: Silksong

👓 Best Game on Steam Deck

Delivering the best portable experience:

Digimon Story: Time Stranger
Hades II
CloverPit
Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor
BALL x PIT

🤝 Better With Friends

Games that shine when played co-op or competitively:

Battlefield 6
Split Fiction
PEAK
Schedule I
REPO

🎨 Outstanding Visual Style

Standing out with unique art design:

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH
SILENT HILL f
ENA: Dream BBQ
DOOM: The Dark Ages
My Little Puppy

💡 Most Innovative Gameplay

Offering never-before-seen mechanics:

Blue Prince
ARC Raiders
Europa Universalis V
Escape from Duckov
Mage Arena

😫 Best Game You Suck At

Hair-pulling difficulty that somehow wins your heart:

Path of Exile 2
Where Winds Meet
ELDEN RING NIGHTREIGN
Hollow Knight: Silksong
Marvel Rivals

🎵 Best Soundtrack

Strengthening atmosphere through music:

Tokyo Xtreme Racer
Rift of the NecroDancer
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
DELTARUNE
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

📖 Outstanding Story-Rich Game

Scripts that draw players deep into the narrative:

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
Dying Light: The Beast
The Last of Us Part II Remastered
No, I’m not a Human
Dispatch

🛋️ Sit Back and Relax

Best picks for unwinding and de-stressing:

Slime Rancher 2
Chill with You: LoFi Story
RV There Yet
Megabonk
PowerWash Simulator 2

❤️ Labor of Love

Games that continue receiving support years after launch:

Rust
Baldur’s Gate 3
Dota 2
HELLDIVERS 2
No Man’s Sky

👓 Best VR Game of the Year

Pushing the boundaries of virtual reality:

F1 25
Emissary Zero
Pavlov
Le Mans Ultimate
The Midnight Walk

You can cast your vote in the Steam Awards by visiting this link.

FIFA Game Announced by Netflix (Yes, Really) - Coming Summer 2026

G-Man — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 16:03:15 GMT

fifa game netflix games fifa 2026

FIFA Game Announced by Netflix (Yes, Really) - Coming Summer 2026

G-Man

• December 17, 2025

Netflix and FIFA Team Up: New FIFA Game Officially Announced

Netflix has made a major play in the gaming space, announcing a strategic partnership with FIFA to bring a brand-new football game exclusively to its subscribers. Developed by Delphi Interactive, the title is set to launch just ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

After parting ways with EA Sports in recent years and promising to develop games under its own brand, FIFA has finally delivered a concrete step forward. The game, both developed and published by Delphi Interactive, will likely resemble a streamlined mobile football experience.

The core philosophy behind the game emphasizes accessibility over complexity: fast to learn, thrilling to master, and designed for football fans of all ages to jump in effortlessly. Netflix’s President of Games, Alain Tascan, stated that their goal is to bring football “back to its roots” by creating an experience that “everyone can play with just the touch of a button.”

Based on these marketing buzzwords, it’s clear we’re looking at a notably simplified gameplay approach.

Your Phone Becomes the Controller

As part of Netflix’s cloud gaming vision, this new FIFA title will be playable on televisions. Players will be able to use their smartphones as controllers (gamepads) to experience the game. Both single-player and online multiplayer modes with friends will be available.

Statements from FIFA and Delphi Interactive

FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized that this collaboration is part of their commitment to innovation in football gaming. Infantino noted that the game will be offered free to Netflix members and represents a historic step in redefining simulation games.

Casper Daugaard, CEO of developer Delphi Interactive, summarized their mission as creating “the most fun, approachable, and global football game ever made.”

When Is It Coming Out?

No gameplay footage has been shared yet, but the title is scheduled to release in summer 2026, coinciding with the World Cup excitement as the United States, Canada, and Mexico co-host the tournament. More technical details and comprehensive information about the game are expected to be revealed throughout 2026.

Viral Bodycam FPS 'Unrecord' Secures Full Funding: Next Major Update Set for 2026

G-Man — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 20:20:54 GMT

unrecord unrecord game unrecord funding

Viral Bodycam FPS 'Unrecord' Secures Full Funding: Next Major Update Set for 2026

G-Man

• December 16, 2025

Viral Bodycam FPS ‘Unrecord’ Secures Full Funding: Next Major Update Set for 2026

Back in 2023, the tactical FPS Unrecord broke the internet. Its initial gameplay footage was so photorealistic that it sparked a widespread “is this real or a game?” debate across social media. Today, developer DRAMA announced a major milestone: the project has finally secured the necessary funding to complete development. However, fans will have to be patient—the studio has set its sights on 2026 for the next major reveal.

From “Bedroom Coders” to a Full-Fledged Studio

In an official statement, the studio shared candid details about the project’s humble origins. When that famous trailer dropped in 2023, the team consisted of just “two bedroom programmers” with absolutely no industry experience. At that time, the game was only six months into development. Despite limited finances and starting from scratch, the project exceeded all expectations.

Fast forward to today, and DRAMA has grown into a team of 10 developers and is actively recruiting. The studio noted that their investors were able to play the game firsthand, placing their trust in the team to deliver the best possible version of Unrecord.

A Long Wait for New Footage

With funding secured, the studio is shifting its full focus to the production phase. However, this comes with a timeline that might test the patience of eager fans. The developers have decided to avoid revealing unfinished work or “vertical slices” to ensure they keep raising the bar. Consequently, they announced that no new updates will be shared until 2026, at which point they will reveal content reflecting their true final vision.

What We Know About Unrecord

Unrecord is being developed as a single-player FPS that puts players in the shoes of a tactical police officer through a body-camera perspective. Pushing the boundaries of Unreal Engine 5, the title promises an immersive narrative featuring complex dialogue options, innovative gameplay mechanics, and tough moral dilemmas.

Describing the project as a “human adventure” that cannot be built overnight, the DRAMA team emphasized their responsibility to create one of the most immersive games ever made without compromise.

If you missed the footage that started it all, you can watch the viral 2023 trailer here:

Steam Replay 2025 Is Now Live: How To Check Your Year In Review

Nomad — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 19:47:10 GMT

Steam Replay 2025 Steam Year in Review Steam Wrapped 2025

Steam Replay 2025 Is Now Live: How To Check Your Year In Review

Nomad

• December 16, 2025

Steam Replay 2025 Is Now Live: How To Check Your Year In Review

Valve has officially launched Steam Replay 2025 today, giving users a comprehensive retrospective of their gaming activity on the platform throughout the year.

What Does Steam Replay 2025 Include?

The Steam Year in Review goes far beyond a simple playtime counter, offering a deep dive into your habits with extensive data points. Users can access a personalized report featuring details such as:

Games Played: The total number of titles you launched and spent time in during the year.
Playtime Split: A breakdown of the total hours spent in front of your desktop monitor versus your Steam Deck.
Genre Distribution: Insights into which genres dominated your library (RPGs, Strategy, FPS, etc.).
Achievements: The total count of achievements you managed to unlock in 2025.

How to View Your Steam Replay

Accessing your 2025 summary is straightforward. Here is how to do it:

Open the Steam website or launch the desktop client.
Log in to the account for which you want to view the statistics.
Click on the “Steam Replay 2025” banner on the store homepage, or navigate directly to the Replay page.

Valve has compiled your year’s worth of data into a single, sleek showcase. Once you have reviewed your stats, you can use the Share button to generate images formatted specifically for social media platforms to show off your gaming milestones.

Forest 3 Officially Announced!

G-Man — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 05:56:47 GMT

Forest 3 The Forest 3 Endnight Games

Forest 3 Officially Announced!

G-Man

• December 12, 2025

Surprise Reveal: Forest 3 Goes Sci-Fi

The Game Awards 2025 ceremony delivered one of the night’s most unexpected announcements for survival genre enthusiasts. Endnight Games, the developers behind the cult hits The Forest and Sons of the Forest, has officially unveiled the third installment in the series: Forest 3.

A Radical Shift in Visual Style

The debut trailer features innovations likely to catch long-time fans off guard. Unlike previous entries, where players struggled to survive in dense woodlands using primitive tools and structures, Forest 3 distinguishes itself with heavy sci-fi elements. The footage showcased striking details such as holographic chess boards, futuristic blast doors, and the wreckage of a massive spaceship.

One of the most notable gameplay additions spotted in the reveal is a mechanical, shoulder-mounted crane arm attached to the protagonist. How this new piece of technology will integrate with and impact the game’s core exploration and building mechanics remains a mystery for now.

The Horror Atmosphere Remains

Despite the dominant sci-fi tone, Endnight Games appears committed to staying true to the series’ roots. Toward the end of the trailer, the familiar misty, eerie atmosphere that defined the previous games makes a return. The threats in this new world appear just as terrifying; the glimpse of a massive, Lovecraftian entity suggests that the horror factor will remain a central pillar of the experience.

Release Date Currently Unknown

The studio began its journey with The Forest in 2018 (full release) and followed up with Sons of the Forest in 2024. With the impact of the previous title still fresh in players’ minds, this rapid announcement suggests Endnight is accelerating its production timeline.

It is currently unclear how Forest 3 will continue the narrative from where Sons of the Forest left off, or how drastically the new sci-fi theme will alter the gameplay loop. No release date or official platform list has been shared yet, though given the series’ history, a PC release is highly probable.

Total War: Warhammer 40,000 Announced

G-Man — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 05:49:56 GMT

Total War Warhammer 40K Total War Warhammer 40K

Total War: Warhammer 40,000 Announced

G-Man

• December 12, 2025

Total War: Warhammer 40,000 Announced

At The Game Awards 2025, Creative Assembly and SEGA officially revealed Total War: Warhammer 40,000, marking the franchise’s first major leap into the grimdark sci-fantasy universe of Warhammer 40K.

Strategy on a Galactic Scale

Set during the Era Indomitus, Total War: Warhammer 40,000 blends deep turn-based campaign strategy with large-scale real-time warfare. Players will wage planetary wars, expand their fleets, manage vital resources, and lead their forces into apocalyptic battles across the stars.

The game will launch with four playable factions:

Space Marines
Astra Militarum
Orks
Aeldari

Each faction brings its own strategic identity and gameplay challenges across both campaign and battle modes.

Total War: Warhammer 40,000 features a full roster of iconic 40K units — from infantry lines and armored tanks to walkers and colossal war engines. Armies can be customized extensively, including naming conventions, color schemes, heraldry, and battlefield traits.

Game director Attila Mohacsi commented:
“Warhammer 40,000’s galactic scale, iconic factions, and brutal warfare align perfectly with Total War’s DNA. We’ve collaborated with Games Workshop for more than 15 years, and our goal is to deliver the definitive Warhammer 40,000 strategy experience—just as we did with the Total War: Warhammer trilogy.”

Total War: Warhammer 40,000 is coming to PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, marking the franchise’s first appearance on consoles. A release date has not yet been announced, but the game is already available to wishlist.

The Game Awards 2025: Winners, Resident Evil 9 and Star Wars Announcement

G-Man — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 02:16:17 GMT

The Game Awards 2025 TGA 2025 Game of the Year 2025

The Game Awards 2025: Winners, Resident Evil 9 and Star Wars Announcement

G-Man

• December 12, 2025

The Game Awards 2025: Game of the Year Revealed, New Announcements Dominate the Show

Gaming’s biggest night, The Game Awards 2025, has concluded. Hosted by Geoff Keighley, the ceremony honored 2025’s defining titles while unveiling massive projects coming in the years ahead.

The evening’s undisputed champion was Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, while surprise announcements from the Star Wars and Resident Evil franchises sent excitement through the roof. However, the show also faced criticism for certain award choices and excessive advertising.

Here’s everything that went down at The Game Awards 2025: winners, announcements, and all the details.

The Night’s Star: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Developed by Sandfall Interactive, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 absolutely dominated the evening. Not only did the title claim Game of the Year, but it also swept the ceremony with a record-breaking 9 awards total, including Best Game Direction, Best Narrative, Best Art Direction, and Best RPG.

An independent studio outshining industry giants to achieve this feat proves once again that storytelling and artistry remain gaming’s most vital pillars.

Exciting Announcements

The ceremony wasn’t just about awards. Long-awaited sequels and fresh IPs were officially unveiled:

Star Wars: Fate of the Old Republic: One of the night’s biggest surprises. Developed by original Mass Effect and KOTOR director Casey Hudson, this single-player, narrative-driven RPG is being positioned as “KOTOR’s spiritual successor.” Hudson’s return to the Star Wars universe has fans buzzing.

Resident Evil Requiem: Capcom is bringing back series legend Leon Kennedy. The 48-year-old “more mature” Leon wielding a chainsaw stole the trailer. The game will balance action and horror through two different characters (Leon and Grace).

Double Tomb Raider News: A fantastic night for Lara Croft fans. The series-roots return Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis (Remake) arrives in 2026, while the all-new adventure Tomb Raider: Catalyst launches in 2027.

Control: Resonant: Following Alan Wake 2’s success, Remedy Entertainment is expanding the Control universe. Sam Lake’s team announced the game for 2026.

Divinity: Fresh off world-shaking Baldur’s Gate 3, Larian Studios revealed its next massive RPG project, Divinity. The studio claims this will be even bigger than BG3.

Controversial Decisions and Criticism

As with any awards show, TGA 2025 sparked debate. The Last of Us Season 2 winning “Best Adaptation” despite not yet airing and receiving mixed fan reactions drew particular backlash on social media.

Another controversy erupted when Kingdom Come: Deliverance II lost the RPG category to Clair Obscur, with players valuing role-playing mechanics calling it “unfair.”

Key Award Winners

The major winners from Geoff Keighley’s show:

Category	Winner
Game of the Year (GOTY)	Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Best Action	Hades II
Best Action/Adventure	Hollow Knight: Silksong
Best RPG	Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Most Anticipated Game	Grand Theft Auto VI
Best Ongoing Game	No Man’s Sky
Best Mobile Game	Umamusume: Pretty Derby
Best Adaptation	The Last of Us Season 2
Player’s Voice	Wuthering Waves

Other Notable Developments

GTA 6 unsurprisingly claimed “Most Anticipated Game.”
Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight was confirmed for May 29, 2026.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve and Total War: Warhammer 40,000 were the night’s other surprises for strategy and simulation fans.

The Game Awards 2025 will be remembered for Expedition 33’s dominance and major franchise returns like Star Wars. However, the show’s final hour pacing issues and advertising overload are lessons the organization should learn from moving forward.

Helldivers 2 x Killzone Crossover Returns as Legendary Warbond

G-Man — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 14:52:40 GMT

Helldivers 2 Killzone Legendary Warbond

Helldivers 2 x Killzone Crossover Returns as Legendary Warbond

G-Man

• December 11, 2025

Helldivers 2 x Killzone Collaboration Returns as Legendary Warbond

Arrowhead Game Studios has announced the return of the Helldivers 2 x Killzone crossover content, developed in partnership with Guerrilla Games. The iconic collection, which debuted last year, is making a comeback on December 18 with a revamped format and pricing structure as a “Legendary Warbond,” following extensive community feedback.

Legacy Content, New Format, and Additions

Previously sold as individual items in the Super Store, the content is now bundled together for 1,500 Super Credits. The development team hasn’t simply rereleased the old content—they’ve enhanced the package with additional cosmetic customization options to make it more appealing.

The new Warbond features notable weapons and armor sets:

Weapons: The high-capacity StA-52 Assault Rifle with its drum magazine, the close-quarters StA-11 SMG, and the precision burst-fire PLAS-39 Accelerator Rifle with its charging mechanism.
Armor: The heavy AC-1 Dutiful armor and the highly mobile light armor AC-2 Obedient.
Passive Abilities: Both armor sets feature the “Acclimated” passive, providing 50% resistance to fire, gas, acid, and electrical damage.

Additionally, the package includes new “Extrasolar Ash” patterns for Exosuits, FRVs, Hellpods, and Pelicans.

Free Access for Previous Buyers

Arrowhead is rewarding loyal players with a generous policy. If you previously purchased any Killzone item from the Super Store, you’ll receive this 1,500 Super Credit Legendary Warbond completely free.

Here’s how the system works:

Previously purchased or gifted items won’t require medal unlocks—they’ll automatically be available in the Warbond.
However, players who only received the items as gifts in December 2024 without making any purchases will need to pay 1,500 Super Credits to unlock the full package.

Release Date

The Helldivers 2 x Killzone Legendary Warbond launches on December 18 at 7:00 AM PT / 3:00 PM GMT / 4:00 PM CET.

Crytek Appoints Hannes Seifert as Co-CEO

Nomad — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 14:18:12 GMT

Crytek Hannes Seifert Crytek CEO

Crytek Appoints Hannes Seifert as Co-CEO

Nomad

• December 10, 2025

Crytek Strengthens Leadership: Hannes Seifert Appointed as Co-CEO

Crytek, the studio behind the Crysis franchise, has made a significant addition to its leadership team. The company announced that gaming industry veteran Hannes Seifert will join as co-CEO starting January 1, 2026.

Focus on Production and Publishing

According to the announcement, Hannes Seifert will focus on Game Production and Publishing operations. Crytek founder and CEO Avni Yerli will continue to oversee the company’s strategic direction and future development. Seifert joins the senior management team alongside COO Christopher Schmitz, CTO Clive Gratton, and CFO Volker Vorbrodt.

With nearly 40 years of industry experience as a founder and director at companies including Rockstar Games, Deep Silver, and IO Interactive, Seifert returns to a game development studio after spending eight years in publishing at Riot Games.

“A Strong Step Towards Sustainable Growth”

Commenting on his appointment, Hannes Seifert stated: “After 38 years in the gaming industry, it is an honor to become part of a company I have always greatly admired for its games, technology, and values. I look forward to supporting the teams in providing players around the world with the best action experiences, and I thank Avni for his trust in me.”

Crytek Founder and CEO Avni Yerli described the appointment as a crucial move to strengthen the company’s market position and accelerate growth: “By expanding our management team, we want to strengthen and further grow Crytek’s position in the market. In particular, we will drive growth on a global scale with our publishing and game services. The continued success of Hunt: Showdown 1896 and our commitment to developing CRYENGINE form a strong foundation for our company’s future. As the new co-CEO, Hannes will set the course for sustainable growth.”

Current Focus: Hunt: Showdown and CRYENGINE

The announcement emphasized that the company’s current focus remains on developing and publishing the award-winning live-service game Hunt: Showdown 1896, which reached 10 million players this fall, as well as the in-house CRYENGINE. The company also reminded fans that it shared a 2026 roadmap in November and that one of the game’s most popular events, Post Malone’s Murder Circus, returns on December 11, 2025.

Founded in 1999 by the Yerli brothers, Crytek is known for globally successful titles including Far Cry, the Crysis series, and Hunt: Showdown. Recently, the studio made headlines with the disappointing news that Crysis 4’s development has been shelved.

New Tomb Raider Game to be Revealed at The Game Awards

Nomad — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 19:32:07 GMT

tomb raider new tomb raider game lara croft

New Tomb Raider Game to be Revealed at The Game Awards

Nomad

• December 8, 2025

Tomb Raider Returns: Major Announcement Confirmed for The Game Awards

Geoff Keighley, the producer and host of The Game Awards, has confirmed that a major announcement regarding the future of the Tomb Raider franchise is scheduled for this week’s ceremony.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Keighley teased the upcoming reveal: “Lara Croft returns at #TheGameAwards! Tune in Thursday night for a look at the future of one of gaming’s most iconic franchises. This is one you won’t want to miss.”

Game Reveal or TV Series?

While the excitement is palpable, the specific nature of the announcement remains slightly ambiguous. It is currently unclear whether the reveal refers to the next mainline Tomb Raider video game or potentially the upcoming live-action series currently in development for Amazon Prime Video.

However, if it is indeed a game reveal, expectations are high for the next major entry from Crystal Dynamics. The studio, which stewards the modern franchise, confirmed back in 2022 that development had begun on a new Tomb Raider title built using Unreal Engine 5.

Turbulent Times at the Studio

The road to this reveal has been rocky for the developers. Crystal Dynamics has faced four separate rounds of layoffs over the past two years. Regarding the most recent staff cuts last month, the studio stated that the decision was part of a restructuring effort designed to “optimize the continued development of our flagship Tomb Raider game” and shape the studio for future projects.

Despite the restructuring, the studio has emphasized its commitment to providing full support to affected employees during the transition.

Event Details

The Game Awards will broadcast live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Thursday, December 12.

International viewers can catch the show at the following times:

Pacific Time: 4:30 PM PT
Eastern Time: 7:30 PM ET
GMT: 12:30 AM (Friday morning)

Netflix Acquires Warner Bros. for $82.7 Billion: HBO Max, DC Universe, and Harry Potter Join Netflix

Nomad — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 09:42:52 GMT

Netflix Warner Bros HBO Max

Netflix Acquires Warner Bros. for $82.7 Billion: HBO Max, DC Universe, and Harry Potter Join Netflix

Nomad

• December 5, 2025

Netflix Acquires Warner Bros. for $82.7 Billion

Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery have signed a historic deal. Netflix will acquire Warner Bros. at a total enterprise valuation of $82.7 billion ($72 billion in equity value). With this acquisition, Netflix will gain Warner Bros. film and television studios, the HBO Max platform, and the HBO brand.

Deal Structure

Structured as a cash and stock transaction, Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders will receive $23.25 in cash and $4.50 worth of Netflix stock per share. The deal is expected to close in Q3 2026, following the separation of Warner Bros. Discovery’s Global Networks division (Discovery Global).

Two Massive Libraries Unite: From Harry Potter to Squid Game

This merger brings together Netflix’s global reach with Warner Bros.’ century-long storytelling legacy under one roof. For viewers, this means an unprecedented expansion in content variety.

Alongside Netflix’s hit shows like Stranger Things, Squid Game, Bridgerton, and Money Heist, Warner Bros.’ legendary franchises are joining the platform, including:

Iconic sitcoms like The Big Bang Theory and Friends,
HBO classics such as Game of Thrones and The Sopranos,
Cinematic masterpieces including Harry Potter, The Wizard of Oz, and Casablanca,
The entire DC Universe of superheroes.

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos stated, “Our mission has always been to entertain the world. By combining Warner Bros.’ incredible library—from timeless classics like Casablanca and Citizen Kane to modern favorites like Harry Potter and Friends—with our culture-defining titles like Stranger Things and Squid Game, we’ll be able to do that even better.”

Industry Impact

Netflix plans to maintain Warner Bros.’ current operations and build on its strengths, including theatrical releases. The company expects the merger to generate $2-3 billion in annual cost savings by year three and to be accretive to earnings per share starting in year two.

Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav commented, “This announcement brings together two of the world’s greatest storytelling companies to deliver even more of the entertainment people love to watch.”

Regulatory Process

The transaction requires regulatory approvals, Warner Bros. Discovery shareholder approval, and completion of the Discovery Global separation. The deal is expected to close within 12-18 months.

With this massive acquisition, Netflix is evolving beyond a streaming service to become the owner of one of Hollywood’s most established studios, aiming to merge traditional and digital media into a single powerhouse.

Xbox Game Pass December 2025 Lineup Revealed: 15 Games Arriving This Month

G-Man — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 14:08:26 GMT

xbox game pass game pass december 2025 new xbox games

Xbox Game Pass December 2025 Lineup Revealed: 15 Games Arriving This Month

G-Man

• December 3, 2025

The highly anticipated December 2025 roadmap for Xbox Game Pass has officially dropped. While the final month of the year brings a massive content injection, the announcement also cements significant structural changes to the subscription model that have been rumored for weeks.

Here is everything coming to the Game Pass library this December, the confirmation of the new subscription tiers, and the titles leaving the service.

Game Pass Premium & Blockbuster Additions

The headliner for December is undoubtedly Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. However, the official announcement explicitly categorizes this title under “Game Pass Premium,” confirming that Standard tier subscribers may not get day-one access to Microsoft’s biggest first-party hits going forward.

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle (December 4)Platform: Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|SDeveloped by MachineGames—the team behind the modern Wolfenstein series—this adventure takes players back to 1937. Set between the events of Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Last Crusade, players will step into the shoes of Indy in a First-Person adventure spanning the globe to uncover an ancient secret.

Mortal Kombat 1 (December 10)Platform: Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|SThe Mortal Kombat universe, reborn by the Fire God Liu Kang, joins the library. Featuring a revamped fighting system, new game modes, and the series’ signature brutality, this latest installment will be available to Ultimate and Premium subscribers.

33 Immortals (December 4 - Game Preview)Platform: Cloud, Console, PCA co-op action-roguelike that supports 33 players simultaneously fighting against massive hordes and bosses. This chaotic title is also launching under the “Game Pass Premium” banner.

Available Today & Coming Soon

Xbox is padding out the month with a diverse array of genres. Here are the other notable additions and their arrival dates:

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage (Today): A new narrative journey from the creators of Life is Strange. The story spans two timelines, starting in the summer of 1995 and jumping 27 years forward as the characters confront dark secrets they swore never to speak of again.
Monster Train 2 (December 3): The sequel to the hit deck-building roguelike, continuing the eternal war between Heaven and Hell.
Spray Paint Simulator (December 3): For those looking for a chill vibe, this simulation title lets you leave your mark on the world—literally.
Routine (December 4): A sci-fi horror game set on an abandoned lunar base, designed with a distinct ”80s vision of the future” aesthetic.
A Game About Digging A Hole (December 9): As the name implies, a minimalist adventure about resource gathering, equipment upgrading, and digging deep.
Dome Keeper (December 9): A unique roguelike miner where you must defend your dome from waves of alien attacks while managing resources under a time limit.
Bratz: Rhythm & Style (December 11): A rhythm and fashion-focused title aimed at younger audiences and nostalgia seekers.

New Tier Confirmed: Game Pass Essential

One of the most significant takeaways from the announcement is the explicit mention of “Game Pass Essential.” Starting December 3, three established titles will be added specifically to this tier:

Stellaris: The deep grand strategy sci-fi game.
World War Z: Aftermath: The intense co-op zombie shooter.
Medieval Dynasty: A survival and city-building simulator set in the Middle Ages.

DLCs & Updates

Current subscribers have plenty to look forward to regarding ongoing games:

Sea of Thieves (December 11): Season 18 launches, marking a return to “The Devil’s Roar” with new enemies and loot.
Dead by Daylight (December 9): The “Bone Chill” event returns, bringing winter themes and snowball fights back to the fog.
Palworld (December 17): The “Home Sweet Home” update arrives, deepening base customization options. It also features a collaboration with Ultrakill, adding V1 and V2 character skins.

Leaving the Library

As always, a fresh batch of games means saying goodbye to others. If you want to keep playing these, remember you can purchase them with a 20% member discount before they vanish.

Leaving December 15:

Mortal Kombat 11 (Cloud, Console, PC)
Still Wakes the Deep (Cloud, Console, PC)
Wildfrost (Cloud, Console, PC)

Leaving December 31:

Carrion (Cloud, Console, PC)
Hell Let Loose (Cloud, Console, PC)

With the arrival of Indiana Jones and the formalization of the Premium and Essential tiers, December 2025 marks a pivotal moment in the history of the service. Which tier are you on, and which game will you be downloading first? Let us know in the comments below.

Helldivers 2 Size Drops to 23 GB: Massive Storage Update and Beta Guide

G-Man — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 17:13:31 GMT

Helldivers 2 Helldivers 2 update Helldivers 2 system requirements

Helldivers 2 Size Drops to 23 GB: Massive Storage Update and Beta Guide

G-Man

• December 2, 2025

The Storage Revolution Helldivers 2 Needed: Game Size Shrinks to 23 GB

One of the most persistent complaints among Helldivers 2 players—the colossal file size—is finally getting a radical solution thanks to a collaboration between Arrowhead Game Studios and Nixxes. Following recent updates that pushed the game past the 150 GB mark, a new technical beta has slashed that requirement down to just 23 GB.

From 154 GB to 23 GB: An 85% Reduction

With the recent release of “Underground Missions” and various performance patches, Helldivers 2’s PC footprint had swelled past 140 GB, eventually reaching approximately 154 GB with the latest additions. The development team has announced that by completely eliminating data duplication within the file structure, they have achieved a total savings of roughly 131 GB.

This optimization process was completed much sooner than anticipated, largely due to a partnership with Nixxes, a studio renowned for its expertise in PC ports. Currently available as a “public technical beta,” this update promises to free up a massive amount of disk space for players.

What About Load Times for HDD Users?

As you may recall, the developers previously explained that the game’s massive file size was a necessary trade-off to “optimize load times for players using mechanical hard drives (HDD).” Duplicating data on the disk was a common industry standard used to increase read speeds by physically placing data closer to where the drive head might be.

However, recent tests and real-world player data have revealed that this theory doesn’t apply specifically to Helldivers 2:

Real Data: Only 11% of the player base is playing on a mechanical HDD.
Bottleneck Analysis: It turns out the primary driver of load times in Helldivers 2 isn’t disk reading, but rather the “level-generation” process handled by the CPU.
The Result: Even with data duplication removed, load times on the slowest HDDs increased by only a few seconds in worst-case scenarios. For SSD users, the difference is negligible.

How to Switch to the “Slim” Version

Players eager to take advantage of these massive storage savings immediately can opt into the beta process via Steam. This version offers the exact same functionality as the current build; players can continue the Galactic War, maintain their progress, and matchmake without issues.

Steps to join the Beta:

Right-click on HELLDIVERS 2 in your Steam library and select Properties.
Navigate to the Betas tab on the left menu.
From the Beta Participation dropdown menu, select “prod_slim”.
Close the window and wait for the update to download.

Important Warning: Players using mods need to be cautious. This fundamental change to the file structure may cause installed mods to fail or result in game crashes. A clean installation is highly recommended before switching to the slim version.

Future Plans: Legacy Version to be Discontinued

Assuming no critical errors are encountered during the beta phase, this “Slim” version will become the default for everyone. While the “Legacy” version with the old file structure will remain accessible for a short time, the development team plans to fully retire it within the next year to avoid the operational burden of supporting two separate versions.

This radical drop in file size looks to be a massive relief, especially for PC players juggling limited SSD capacity.

Helldivers 2 Version 5.0 Update Released!

Nomad — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 10:59:22 GMT

helldivers 2 python commandos minigun

Helldivers 2 Version 5.0 Update Released!

Nomad

• December 2, 2025

Helldivers 2 Receives Major Update: Weapon Balancing and Performance Improvements

Arrowhead Game Studios has released the “Into the Unjust: 5.0.0” update for Helldivers 2. The new patch brings a wide range of changes, from weapon balancing and performance optimizations to a brand new warbond.

Python Commandos Warbond

The new pack stands out with heavy weapons and jungle-themed equipment. Prepared based on heavy community demand, the content adds four new weapons to the game:

New Weapons and Stratagems:

M-1000 Maxigun: Belt-fed minigun with ultra-high ammunition capacity
AR/GL-21 One-Two: Hybrid primary weapon combining assault rifle and grenade launcher features
AX/FLAM-75 “Guard Dog” Hot Dog: Drone with integrated flamethrower. Returns to the player’s backpack for fuel after burning enemies
CQC-9 Defoliation Tool: Close-quarters combat weapon designed to clear vegetation in forested areas (chainsaw)

Armor Sets:Python Commandos offers two armor sets with exposed arms design:

RS-20 Constrictor (Light)
RS-40 Beast of Prey (Heavy)

Both armors come with the “Rock Solid” passive ability. This feature reduces staggering and ragdolling during combat, providing more stable positioning.

The pack also includes “Chameleon Camo” camouflage pattern for vehicles, Exosuits, and Hellpods, along with new capes and a push-up position emote.

Weapon Buffs

The update increases damage values for many weapons. Notable changes include:

Primary Weapons:

SMG-37 Defender damage increased from 100 to 110
SMG-32 Reprimand raised from 135 to 140
M7S SMG damage increased from 80 to 90

Sidearms:

P-2 Peacemaker damage raised from 95 to 100
M6C/SOCOM Pistol received a significant buff, with damage increased from 110 to 125

Scope Changes

Ergonomics penalties for magnifying scopes have been significantly reduced. This change makes scope usage more preference-based while reducing negative impacts on weapon handling:

2x Tube Red Dot: reduced from -3 to -1
4x Combat Scope: reduced from -6 to -2
10x Sniper Scope: reduced from -9 to -4

Enemy Balancing

The issue of Factory Striders launching into the air upon death has been fixed. Explosion forces for enemies like War Strider and Bile Spewer have been adjusted for a more balanced gameplay experience.

Technical Improvements

The update resolves most known issues, including audio problems and XP multipliers. Various optimizations have been made to improve game performance:

Automaton visual effects lighting optimized
Rock asset physics improved
Performance impact of environmental effects reduced

First-person view has also been updated. Scope size and distance now work more consistently across different FOV settings.

Other Fixes

Rare crashes during specific mission phases have been resolved
Weapon display bugs fixed
Mini-map fog effect no longer persists between caves
Issue preventing players from progressing in the tutorial has been solved

The update also adds new keybind options for quickly switching weapon functions.

Hytale System Requirements Revealed

Nomad — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 18:22:52 GMT

Hytale system requirements Hytale PC requirements Hytale minimum requirements

Hytale System Requirements Revealed

Nomad

• December 1, 2025

Hytale System Requirements Revealed

The official system requirements for Hytale, launching in Early Access in January 2026, have been announced. Hypixel Studios aims to make the game broadly accessible while continuing to work on performance optimizations.

Minimum and Recommended Requirements

Minimum Requirements (1080p @ 30 FPS)

Operating System: 64-bit Windows 10/11
CPU: Intel Core i5-7500 or AMD Ryzen 3 1200
RAM: 8-12 GB (8 GB for singleplayer with dedicated graphics, 12 GB with integrated graphics)
GPU: Intel UHD 620, AMD Radeon Vega 3, or NVIDIA GTX 900/AMD Radeon 400 series
Storage: 20 GB free space (SSD recommended)

Recommended Requirements (1080p @ 60 FPS)

Operating System: 64-bit Windows 10/11
CPU: Intel Core i5-10400 or AMD Ryzen 5 3600
RAM: 16 GB
GPU: Intel Iris Xe, AMD Radeon 660M, or NVIDIA GTX 900/AMD Radeon 400 series
Storage: 20 GB free space (SSD)

Special Requirements for Streamers

Recommended system for streaming or recording at 1440p with 60 FPS:

CPU: Intel Core i7-10700K or AMD Ryzen 9 3800X
RAM: 32 GB
GPU: NVIDIA RTX 30 Series, AMD Radeon RX 7000 Series
Storage: NVMe SSD (separate drive recommended for recording)

Hypixel Studios reported achieving 400 FPS at 3840×1440 resolution with a view distance of 768 blocks in a test using an AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D and NVIDIA RTX 5080 combination.

View Distance and Performance

The game’s most critical performance setting is “view distance.” The development team stated that Hytale is designed for a 384-block view distance but can be played with a minimum of 192 blocks. When view distance is doubled, the world that needs to be rendered quadruples.

Storage and Network Requirements

The game’s installation size is 8 GB. Due to the procedurally generated world, save file size varies depending on exploration. Approximately 661 MB is required for exploring 5000x5000 blocks.

Network requirements for multiplayer vary based on view distance:

192 blocks: Minimum 2 Mbit/s, Recommended 4 Mbit/s
384 blocks: Minimum 4.5 Mbit/s, Recommended 7 Mbit/s
480 blocks: Minimum 6 Mbit/s, Recommended 10 Mbit/s

Singleplayer and Multiplayer Differences

In singleplayer mode, system requirements are higher because the computer runs both the game client and server simulation. In multiplayer mode, better performance is achieved on the same hardware since the server runs remotely.

Mac, Linux, and Steam Deck Status

Hypixel Studios is working to bring Hytale to Mac (Intel and M1+) and Linux systems as soon as possible. Testing capabilities for Steam Deck support are not yet available, and the Steam launch will not occur until compliance with Steam’s policies is determined.

The development team stated that optimizations will continue during Early Access and system requirements may be updated.

Games Releasing in December 2025

Skyline — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:00:00 GMT

games releasing in december games coming in december 2025 games releasing in 2025

Games Releasing in December 2025

Skyline

• December 1, 2025

Games Releasing in December 2025:

The final month of 2025 bids farewell to the gaming world with massive returns and brand-new adventures. Most notably, the Metroid Prime series breaks its 18-year silence, joined by a nostalgic beat ‘em up from Marvel. We’ve compiled a list of every game dropping in December just for you.

Marvel Cosmic Invasion

Release Date: December 1
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch, Switch 2

From the minds behind Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge, Marvel Cosmic Invasion merges the classic arcade beat ‘em up genre with the grandeur of the Marvel Universe. With 15 playable characters, players battle against Annihilus’s galaxy-threatening invasion. Blending nostalgic pixel art with modern gameplay, it offers both solo play and up to 4-player local co-op.

Red Dead Redemption (New Platforms)

Release Date: December 2
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch 2, iOS, Android, Netflix

Rockstar’s legendary Wild West epic, Red Dead Redemption, arrives on modern platforms. John Marston’s tale of revenge and redemption returns with enhanced graphics and performance. The Switch 2 version is particularly notable for those seeking the ultimate portable experience.

Sleep Awake

Release Date: December 2, 2025
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Published by Blumhouse Games, Sleep Awake is a psychedelic first-person horror title bringing together Cory Davis (Spec Ops: The Line) and Robin Finck (Nine Inch Nails). Set in a city where “The Hush” phenomenon wipes out anyone who sleeps, you play as Katja—dodging cults, solving puzzles, and desperately trying to keep your eyes open.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

Release Date: December 4
Platforms: Switch, Switch 2

After an agonizing 18-year wait, it’s finally here! Metroid Prime 4: Beyond follows Samus Aran’s new mission on Planet Viewros. The game introduces open-world elements to the series, along with a motorcycle and new psychic powers. The Switch 2 version boasts 4K 60fps or 1080p 120fps support. Confronting her old nemesis Sylux and deep planetary exploration are at the core of this experience.

Octopath Traveler 0

Release Date: December 4
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch, Switch 2

The newest entry in the beloved RPG series, Octopath Traveler 0, serves as a prequel to the original game. For the first time, you can create your own character and rebuild your destroyed hometown. Featuring over 30 playable characters and an 8-person party system, it delivers an epic tale of revenge and restoration. A free demo is available now, with progress carrying over to the full game.

Blood: Refreshed Supply

Release Date: December 4
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch

The 90s cult classic Blood returns with a remake for modern platforms. Caleb’s dark story of vengeance is back, featuring overhauled graphics and controls. An unmissable opportunity for retro FPS enthusiasts.

Toxic Crusaders

Release Date: December 4
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch

Troma Entertainment’s iconic characters return in a colorful beat ‘em up adventure. Fusing 90s comic book aesthetics with modern mechanics, the game promises hours of fun with friends via its co-op support.

Routine

Release Date: December 4, 2025
Platforms: PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S

After more than a decade of anticipation, Routine is finally launching. This HUD-less first-person horror experience is set on an abandoned Moon base with an 80s vision of the future. You’ll hack terminals with your tool, unlock doors, and try to evade the robots hunting you down.

Rhythm Doctor

Release Date: December 6
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PC

This unique rhythm game themed around music therapy stands out with its creative mechanics and impressive soundtrack. You attempt to heal patients by synchronizing with their heartbeats. While visually minimal, the gameplay is incredibly satisfying.

Skate Story

Release Date: December 8, 2025
Platforms: PC, PS5, Nintendo Switch 2

After years of Sam Eng driving us crazy with teasers, Skate Story is finally here in its completed form. Featuring realistic skate physics, incredible abstract visuals, and a soundtrack by Blood Cultures, it’s a compelling skating title to cap off the year.

Montezuma’s Revenge - The 40th Anniversary Edition

Release Date: December 10
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch

A 40th-anniversary special edition of the classic platformer. It offers the original game alongside new levels, enhanced graphics, and modern control options. A nostalgic journey for retro gaming fans.

Terminator 2D: NO FATE

Release Date: December 12, 2025
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Terminator 2D: NO FATE retells James Cameron’s classic film as a 2D pixel-art arcade game. As you switch between Sarah Connor, the T-800, and John Connor in the future, you’ll relive iconic movie scenes and dive into new Future War scenarios. The game has had a bit of an issue with delays, constantly slipping just weeks before launch for the past three months. Here’s hoping it actually sticks the landing this time.

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora – From the Ashes (Expansion)

Release Date: December 19, 2025
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Released in 2023, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora returns with its third major story expansion. In From the Ashes, you control the main game’s side character, So’lek, fighting for revenge and survival in the Kinglor Forest, now reduced to ash by the RDA and the ruthless Ash clan. With a new region, new enemy types, and a release date coinciding with the film Avatar: Fire and Ash, it’s perfect for anyone looking to do a “game + movie” marathon.

Conclusion

December is packed with solid titles to close out the year. While they might not all be instant cult classics, there are plenty of intriguing options. Which game are you looking forward to the most this month?

Resident Evil: The Ultimate Playing and Watching Order

G-Man — Sun, 30 Nov 2025 12:00:00 GMT

resident evil resident evil play order resident evil watch order

Resident Evil: The Ultimate Playing and Watching Order

G-Man

• November 30, 2025

Resident Evil: The Ultimate Playing and Watching Order

When you think “survival horror,” the first name that springs to mind is undoubtedly Resident Evil. Since 1996, this virus hasn’t just infected our consoles; it has mutated into a massive multimedia universe spanning movies, TV series, and animations. If you’re wondering, “Which game should I start with?” or “When do I watch the movies?”, you’ve come to the right place. Grab a drink, hit the lights (preferably off), and brace yourself. Here is the complete Resident Evil compendium by release date!

Resident Evil | Game (1996)

The place where it all began. We take our first steps into that accursed mansion in the Arklay Mountains with the S.T.A.R.S. team. This is our first introduction to zombies, alongside Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine. If you don’t want to wrestle with the old-school tank controls, I highly recommend playing the phenomenal “Remake” version released in 2002.

You can grab the HD Remaster version on Steam. It is also available on PlayStation and Xbox stores.

Resident Evil 2 | Game (1998)

Just two months after the first game, the virus has now engulfed all of Raccoon City. Rookie cop Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield, who is searching for her brother, cross paths amidst this chaos. The tension of the Raccoon Police Department (RPD) is unforgettable.

While the original is a classic, you can play the stellar Remake version released in 2019 via Steam.

Resident Evil 3: Nemesis | Game (1999)

Jill Valentine returns! But this time, she is being hunted by a massive biological weapon programmed solely to eliminate her: Nemesis. There is no escape, only survival.

You can find the modern reimagining of this classic on Steam, PS Store, and the Xbox Store.

Resident Evil Code: Veronica | Game (2000)

Claire Redfield’s adventure continues. We are dragged from Umbrella’s pursuit in Paris to an isolated island. Narrative-wise, this is one of the most critical yet often overlooked entries in the series, dealing with Wesker’s return and the twisted drama of the Ashford family.

You can purchase the game on PC via GOG. HD versions are also available on Xbox and PlayStation stores.

Resident Evil | Movie (2002)

The first link in the film series starring Milla Jovovich, which proceeds independently from the games. We are introduced to the character Alice and battle the artificial intelligence Red Queen in an underground laboratory known as “The Hive.” Perfect for those looking for some popcorn action.

Available to stream on major platforms like Netflix.

Resident Evil 0 | Game (2002)

We travel back to just before the first game. This is the story of Rebecca Chambers and convict Billy Coen aboard a train. Managing two characters simultaneously, this title holds key secrets regarding the origins of the progenitor virus.

You can get the HD version of Resident Evil 0 here.

Resident Evil: Apocalypse | Movie (2004)

Alice is now on the streets of Raccoon City. Characters we know from the games, like Jill Valentine and Nemesis, join the fray. The action dosage is significantly higher compared to the first film.

You can watch it via Apple TV.

Resident Evil 4 | Game (2005)

And here is the revolution! Leon S. Kennedy heads to a sinister village in Spain to rescue the President’s daughter. With its over-the-shoulder camera, this masterpiece redefined the action-horror genre and is a must-play.

Both the original and the 2023 Remake version are available on all platforms.

Resident Evil: Extinction | Movie (2007)

The world is now a deserted post-apocalyptic hellscape. Alice and a convoy of survivors battle zombies in a Mad Max-esque atmosphere.

You can watch it via Apple TV.

Resident Evil: Degeneration | CGI Movie (2008)

Attention! This animated film is connected to the game universe (Canon). It reunites Leon and Claire during an outbreak at an airport. A production not to be missed for those following the game’s lore.

You can watch it via Apple TV.

Resident Evil 5 | Game (2009)

Chris Redfield hits the heat of Africa. Along with his new partner Sheva Alomar, they attempt to root out bioterrorism. It stands as one of the most enjoyable co-op experiences in the series. We also witness the finale of the long-standing feud with Wesker.

Grab the purchase link here to play with a friend.

Resident Evil: Afterlife | Movie (2010)

The years when 3D tech was all the rage. Alice tries to rescue survivors taking refuge in a prison. The “Executioner” character from the game also makes a guest appearance.

You can watch it on Prime Video.

Resident Evil: Revelations | Game (2012)

We are stranded on an abandoned ship in the middle of the ocean. With Jill Valentine, we feel the tension down to our marrow in narrow corridors. A fantastic interquel where the series attempts to pivot from action back to horror.

Available on Steam here.

Resident Evil: Damnation | CGI Movie (2012)

Leon S. Kennedy finds himself in the middle of a civil war in Eastern Europe. An action-packed, canon animated film showing how biological weapons are utilized on the battlefield.

You can watch it via Apple TV.

Resident Evil: Retribution | Movie (2012)

Alice wakes up in Umbrella’s simulation facility. This is the first time we see live-action versions of characters like Leon, Ada Wong, and Barry Burton.

You can watch it on Netflix.

Resident Evil 6 | Game (2012)

The most controversial game in the series. A massive action blockbuster where the stories of Leon, Chris, Ada, and Wesker’s son Jake intersect. It’s full of Hollywood-style explosions rather than scares.

Check it out on its Steam page.

Resident Evil: Revelations 2 | Game (2015)

Claire Redfield returns, accompanied by Barry Burton! Released episodically, this game is one of the series’ hidden gems thanks to its storytelling and atmosphere.

You can buy it episodically or as a full package on Steam.

Resident Evil: The Final Chapter | Movie (2016)

The finale of the Milla Jovovich film series. Alice returns to where it all began, Raccoon City, and the story (finally) concludes.

You can watch it on Netflix.

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard | Game (2017)

The series returns to its roots, and perhaps even further. The camera angle is now First Person (FPS). Controlling an ordinary man named Ethan Winters, we enter the terrifying Baker family home to find his wife. A truly terrifying experience.

If you have the courage, you can play it here.

Resident Evil: Vendetta | CGI Movie (2017)

Chris Redfield and Leon Kennedy team up with John Wick-style action sequences. Set in New York, this animated film is part of the game story and is quite enjoyable to watch.

Resident Evil Village (RE8) | Game (2021)

The sequel to RE7. Ethan’s story continues this time in a gothic European village. Vampires (Lady Dimitrescu), werewolves, and Chris Redfield… The visuals are magnificent, the atmosphere purely enchanting.

You can find the game on Steam and all other platforms.

Resident Evil: Infinite Darkness | Series (2021)

A 4-episode animated series released on Netflix. Leon and Claire investigate a conspiracy at the White House. Narratively, it takes place between RE4 and RE5.

You can watch the series on Netflix.

Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City | Movie (2021)

A “Reboot” of the film franchise. A production that tries to fit the story of the first two games into a single movie, aiming to remain more faithful to the games, though it split critics down the middle.

You can watch it on Apple TV or Prime Video.

Resident Evil | Series (2022)

Another attempt by Netflix. Focusing on Wesker’s daughters and set in two different timelines, this series was not well-received by fans and was subsequently cancelled. Still, it’s there for the curious.

Available in the Netflix library.

Resident Evil: Death Island | CGI Movie (2023)

The Avengers assemble! Jill, Leon, Chris, Claire, and Rebecca… The most beloved characters of the series meet in the same movie for the first time, on Alcatraz Island. A total fan-service feast.

You can watch it via Apple TV.

Resident Evil Requiem (RE9) | Game (2026)

The highly anticipated 9th mainline entry in the series. Scheduled for release in February 2026, this production takes us back to the ruins of Raccoon City years later. In this game, where we control FBI analyst Grace Ashcroft and try to completely unravel the dark secrets behind the virus’s origins, we will be able to switch between FPS and TPS camera angles instantly for the first time in the series. We are counting the days.

If you want to add it to your wishlist already, the Steam page is here.

So, How Do You Play in Story Order?

If you want to experience the games and CGI movies not by their release dates, but by the chronological order of events within the universe, here is the “lore” route you need to follow:

Resident Evil 0
Resident Evil 1 (Or Remake)
Resident Evil 2 & 3 (Events occur almost simultaneously)
Resident Evil: Code Veronica
Resident Evil 4
Resident Evil: Revelations
Resident Evil: Degeneration (Animated Movie)
Resident Evil: Infinite Darkness (Series)
Resident Evil 5
Resident Evil: Revelations 2
Resident Evil: Damnation (Animated Movie)
Resident Evil 6
Resident Evil: Vendetta (Animated Movie)
Resident Evil: Death Island (Animated Movie)
Resident Evil 7
Resident Evil Village
Resident Evil Requiem

What is your favorite Resident Evil game or movie?

Hytale Early Access Release Date Announced: Coming January 2026

Nomad — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 15:51:23 GMT

Hytale Hytale early access Hytale release date

Hytale Early Access Release Date Announced: Coming January 2026

Nomad

• November 28, 2025

Hytale Early Access Release Date Announced: Coming January 2026

Hypixel Studios has finally announced the early access release date for their long-awaited sandbox game Hytale. The game will launch on Steam Early Access on January 13, 2026.

Pre-Orders Open December 13

Pre-orders for Hytale will open on December 13, 2025 for those who wish to secure the game ahead of launch. However, the studio has urged players not to rush into a purchase. In their announcement, Hypixel Studios emphasized this is “true early access,” stressing that the game remains very much unfinished and will contain bugs for some time.

The studio cautioned: “If you don’t feel comfortable pre-ordering, please don’t,” asking players to be patient. The team reaffirmed their commitment to making Hytale the game they’ve always envisioned it to be.

If you don’t feel comfortable pre-ordering, please don’t. This is true early access, meaning it’s still very much unfinished and will be buggy for a while, but you have the team’s commitment to make Hytale the game we’ve always wanted it to be.

After a Tumultuous Development Journey

Hytale’s development has been particularly turbulent. After its initial announcement in 2018, the game fell into years of silence. Earlier this year, publisher Riot Games announced the project’s cancellation. Following extensive negotiations by the Hypixel development team, the rights to Hytale were reclaimed from Riot Games, allowing development to resume.

In their statement, Hypixel Studios reflected: “Hytale has been through a long journey, and soon, we will be home.” The team confirmed that more details will be shared in the coming weeks.

SEGA Faces Backlash Over Yakuza 20th Anniversary Updates and Delistings

G-Man — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 18:05:07 GMT

yakuza 0 yakuza 0 director's cut yakuza 0 steam

SEGA Faces Backlash Over Yakuza 20th Anniversary Updates and Delistings

G-Man

• November 27, 2025

SEGA Delisting Original Yakuza 0 for 20th Anniversary Re-releases

SEGA and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio have announced updated versions of their beloved crime drama titles for next-gen consoles and PC to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Like a Dragon (formerly Yakuza) series. While the versions dropping on December 8 come with discount upgrade paths for existing owners, the studio is facing fierce criticism over several anti-consumer decisions.

The controversy centers primarily on the original Yakuza 0—widely considered the entry point for the franchise—being scrubbed from digital storefronts, alongside the inability to transfer save data to the new versions.

Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut: New Features, Old Problems

The fan-favorite Yakuza 0 is arriving on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam as a Director’s Cut. This definitive edition includes features previously unavailable in the original release:

Newly added cutscenes.
‘Red Light Raid’ online co-op mode.
Full English dub option.
Expanded text support for French, Italian, German, Spanish, Russian, and Portuguese.
The inclusion of the theme song “Bubble,” which was absent from the original Western release.

The Upgrade Path and The Delisting:Current owners of Yakuza 0 (PS4, Xbox One, Steam) can upgrade to the Director’s Cut for $14.99, provided they own the game before December 8 at 4:29 PM GMT. After launch, the standard price will be $49.99.

However, the news souring the anniversary is the fate of the original game. As of December 8, the original PS4, Xbox One, and Steam versions of Yakuza 0 will be delisted. While existing owners can still download and play their copies, new players will be forced to purchase the more expensive Director’s Cut. Furthermore, save data does not carry over to the new version. This also implies that the extensive library of community mods created for the original PC version will essentially be rendered obsolete for new buyers.

Yakuza Kiwami and Kiwami 2 Updates

The Kiwami remakes of the first two games are also receiving the 20th-anniversary treatment.

Yakuza Kiwami:

Expanded language support.
Restoration of the tracks “Receive You [Reborn]” and “Bleed,” which were missing from the Western release.
Owners of the PS4 or Xbox One versions can upgrade to the PS5 or Xbox Series X|S versions for $1.99.

Yakuza Kiwami 2:

Includes new text language support.
Current owners are eligible for a free upgrade to next-gen versions.

Steam upgrade details for both titles will be shared upon release on December 8. Like Yakuza 0, save data transfer is not supported. It is also important to note that these upgrade offers do not apply to users accessing the games via Xbox Game Pass or PlayStation Plus.

Community Backlash: “Goodwill Squandered”

Following the announcement, social media and forums have been ablaze with criticism directed at RGG Studio. Fans argue that the goodwill the studio earned over the last decade with Yakuza 0 and the Like a Dragon rebranding is being eroded by what they perceive as corporate greed.

Key points of contention include:

Delisting the Original: Gamers are calling it “shameful” to force a more expensive version on consumers by deleting the affordable original, especially for a game that is often discounted heavily.
Save Data Incompatibility: The inability to transfer hundreds of hours of progress to the “definitive” version is a major dealbreaker for veterans.
Broken Trust: Many fans feel the studio has abandoned its fan-first approach. One viral comment on X (formerly Twitter) summed up the sentiment: “The manner in which you’ve washed away so much community goodwill within a year’s time is something that needs to be studied, documented, and taught on what notto do.”

Yakuza Kiwami 3

Amidst the controversy, SEGA did drop a major reveal regarding the future of the series. Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties is officially scheduled for release on February 12, 2026. The title is confirmed to launch on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Steam, and the Nintendo Switch 2.

FM26 Update Schedule Revised: Patch 26.0.6 and New Match Engine Details

G-Man — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 15:08:00 GMT

Football Manager 26 FM26 Football Manager 2026

FM26 Update Schedule Revised: Patch 26.0.6 and New Match Engine Details

G-Man

• November 27, 2025

Sports Interactive has been working overtime to improve the player experience following Football Manager 26’s turbulent launch. The studio’s latest announcements detail both the recently released 26.0.6 update and significant changes to the roadmap for the coming weeks.

Taking into account feedback about the game’s stability, match engine, and UI complaints, the development team has revised their planned update schedule to allow for more thorough quality control processes.

Here’s everything you need to know about FM26’s current state and upcoming updates.

Why Was the Next Update Delayed?

In Sports Interactive’s latest announcement, the studio confirmed that the expected weekly update would not arrive on its originally planned date. The primary reason cited was unexpected side effects discovered during the loading process.

The development team emphasized that the next update contains significantly more changes, necessitating additional time in quality control to minimize potential issues.

The Revised Schedule:

Next Week: The update will first be made available to players through the Steam Public Beta channel.
Week of December 8: Following beta testing, the update will roll out as a full release across all platforms.

This update will include data adjustments, match engine improvements, and balance changes made in response to community feedback.

December Match Engine Changes

One of players’ most anticipated areas—the Match Engine—is set for a major update in December. The announcement highlights the following changes:

Tight Angle Shots: Adjustments to the frequency of players shooting at the near post from tight angles.
Defender Reactions: Improvements to defenders’ reactions against opposition dribbling.
Defensive Line: Tweaks to the line defenders hold when defending in their own box.
Aerial Duels: Improved logic for defenders’ decision-making with headers when not under pressure.
Counter-Attacks: Enhanced attacking movement of players during counter-attacking transitions.

UI and User Experience Improvements

FM26’s user interface has been one of the most criticized aspects by the community. The developers have acknowledged that the UI isn’t currently reaching its intended potential and that areas requiring too many clicks or difficult navigation will be improved.

Planned quality of life (QoL) improvements include:

Spacebar Functionality: Restoration of the spacebar’s previous function for advancing through messages.
Squad Management: Return of the ability to save multiple starting XIs.
Passing Maps: The controversial Passing Maps feature is currently under re-evaluation.

Latest Release: Update 26.0.6 and Details

Prior to the major December update, version 26.0.6 has been released for PC and Mac users. This update contains over 250 fixes, with the return of the youth team training calendar and the addition of FPS limit options being particularly noteworthy.

Highlighted Fixes:

FPS Limit: A new preference option allows players to select their desired FPS value or match their monitor’s refresh rate.
Wage Demands: Improved logic behind player wage demands, particularly for lower leagues and youth players.
Online Mode: Fixed freezing issues in online games using large custom databases.
Visual Bugs: Corrected issues such as substitute goalkeepers appearing in outfield kits or away teams showing home icons in the in-match tactics planner.

The comprehensive changelist for the update is as follows:

USER INTERFACE & TECHNICAL

Extensive UI polish and refinement implemented.
Wide-ranging crash and stability fixes applied.
Fixed freezes at half-time during human vs. human online matches.
Added FPS limit preference option in Settings menu.
Improvements made to in-game translations.
Fixed soft lock when attempting to view past matches.
Tweaks made to general screen flow.
Added preference option to adjust crowd quality.

GAMEPLAY & RULES

Training Calendar restored for youth teams.
Improved logic behind player wage demands (for both lower leagues and young players).
Fixed incorrect coefficient points being added following 2nd leg results in European knockout stages.
Fixed association coefficients not being correctly allocated for qualifying and playoff stages of European competitions.
Fixed current season coefficient total displaying as zero until season end.
Adjusted frequency of rain during matches.
Snow now appears around stadiums, not just on the pitch.
Fixed crash when continuing with UAE clubs during advanced game setup.

MATCH & TACTICS

Loading tactics during a match now functions correctly.
Fixed issue preventing assignment of shirt numbers to loaned players.
Fixed home shirt icon always displaying in in-match tactics planner regardless of kit worn.
Data Hub > Last Match > Summary now displays correct match data.
Fixed all substitutes displaying as “S1” in team talks.
Fixed Ligue 1 trophy image displaying for incorrect competitions.
Passing Risk instruction now correctly locked as “Take More Risks” for Midfield Playmaker role.
Fixed substitute goalkeeper displaying in outfield kit in tactics planner.

TRANSFERS & CONTRACTS

Fixed ability to create recruitment focus for women’s competitions when managing men’s teams, and vice versa.
Refined AI logic for Saudi Arabian clubs’ transfer activity.
Improved squad-building logic for top-tier clubs.
Players now more appropriately decline contract negotiations upfront when there’s a large wage discrepancy.
Fixed finance graph always displaying in USD.
Club > Finances now displays correct income and expenditure data.
Fixed sponsorship end dates displaying as 1/1/1900.
Fixed ability to renegotiate transfer/loan fees despite agreed contract terms.

IN-GAME EDITOR (IGE)

Fixed editing functionality for players who are also staff members at the same club.
Corrected stadium condition field editing.
Club foreground/background color edits now save correctly.
Fixed IGE icons appearing even when feature is disabled.
“Maximize Existing Familiarity” now updates instantly.

Death Stranding 2 PC Release Appears Imminent

G-Man — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 15:36:13 GMT

Death Stranding 2 Death Stranding 2 PC Death Stranding 2 On the Beach

Death Stranding 2 PC Release Appears Imminent

G-Man

• November 26, 2025

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach PC Version Moves Closer to Reality

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, developed by Kojima Productions and released on PlayStation 5 in June, appears to be heading to PC sooner rather than later. The game has been officially rated for PC by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), strongly suggesting that a port is in the works.

While no announcement has been made yet, the update isn’t particularly surprising. The original Death Stranding arrived on PC less than a year after its PlayStation debut, paving the way for the sequel to follow a similar pattern.

Note: The ESRB page has since been removed, but a snapshot remains accessible via the Wayback Machine.

A Shift in Publishing Strategy: Sony Steps In

One of the most notable details in the ESRB listing is a change on the publishing side. While the first game’s PC release was handled by 505 Games, the PC version of Death Stranding 2 is listed under Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE). This points to a more direct, hands-on approach from Sony as it expands its footprint in the PC market.

Eyes on The Game Awards for a Possible Reveal

The original Death Stranding launched on PC approximately eight months after its PS4 release. With the sequel arriving on PS5 in June, the timing now aligns with a potential reveal during The Game Awards, one of the industry’s biggest annual showcases. Kojima’s well-known connection with host Geoff Keighley only strengthens the likelihood of an appearance.

What to Expect from the PC Version

The first game’s PC release included several enhancements and platform-specific features, such as:

An improved photo mode
Ultrawide monitor support
Exclusive crossover content featuring the Half-Life series

Given that precedent, it’s reasonable to expect Death Stranding 2: On the Beach to offer similar upgrades—or perhaps entirely new PC-exclusive features—when the port is officially announced.

Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord War Sails DLC Launches With Full Naval Warfare

G-Man — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 11:01:10 GMT

Mount & Blade II Bannerlord War Sails Bannerlord naval combat

Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord War Sails DLC Launches With Full Naval Warfare

G-Man

• November 26, 2025

Bannerlord II’s War Sails DLC Is Out Now: Naval Battles, a New Map, and the Nord Kingdom

Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord’s highly anticipated War Sails expansion has officially launched, introducing full naval warfare, ship ownership, and extensive new exploration opportunities across a standalone world map.

🎮 Pricing and Launch Discount

War Sails is available across all modern platforms, with a 10% launch discount for the first two weeks.

Here are the global prices after currency conversion from Turkish Lira (TL → USD):

Xbox: ~$35.00
PlayStation: ~$33.50
Epic Games Store: ~$10.80
Steam: $12.49
TaleWorlds Store (Steam key): ~$15.50

War Sails is not launching on Game Pass, and there’s no confirmation yet on whether it will be added later.

🛠 Requirements and Platform Notes

Size: PC version is roughly 33 GB; console versions are smaller.
Steam Deck: Not “Verified” at launch, but fully playable.
Preload / Pre-order: Not supported.
Xbox PC App: The DLC will also be available through the Windows Xbox App.

🚢 Gameplay: Ships, Crew, Naval Combat

War Sails expands Bannerlord’s land-focused sandbox with fully integrated naval mechanics.

Ship Ownership and Costs

Light ships: 12,000 denars
Heavy ships: 150,000 denars
Certain perks reduce purchase prices.

Without owning a ship, players cannot travel between ports.

Morale, Food, and Sea Hazards

Low morale does not cause troops to desert at sea, but lack of food will injure them.
The player character can swim indefinitely; troops’ stamina depends on armor weight and unit quality.

Losing Your Ship

If you capture an enemy ship but your own vessel sinks:

You still win the battle,
But you’ll drift toward land unless you claim a ship from the loot.

Reinforcements

Each battle supports up to 8 ships at once.
Larger ships may deploy additional soldiers beyond deck capacity.

Siege Weapons and Skills

Using ballistae increases both Engineering and the new Mariner skill.

Custom Naval Battles

Responding to community demand, custom naval encounters are fully supported:

Choose factions, ships, unit counts, upgrades, and more.

🌍 A New World Map and the Nord Kingdom

War Sails features a completely separate world map from the base game.

Key Geographic Additions

Nordvyg: A harsh northern region dense with forests and rugged terrain.
Beinland Island: Focused on whale oil and walrus ivory trade.
Jumne River Zone: Central to northern trade routes and raiding paths.
Removed Aserai–Empire islands: These do not appear in the War Sails version of the map.
Perassic Sea access: Two major land bridges were removed to open new sea routes.

Nord Kingdom

Includes:

4 cities
10 castles (subject to balance tuning)
Most northern villages specialize in fish rather than grain.
The economy supports new goods such as whale oil and walrus ivory.

🚧 Naval Blockades, Armies, and AI Logic

Coastal settlements under siege automatically trigger naval blockades if the besieging faction owns ships.

During a blockade:

Enemy fleets may attempt to break through.
Winning keeps the blockade active; losing ends both the siege and the blockade.
Players can attempt to reinforce a besieged city by slipping past enemy lines.

AI Behavior

AI now:

Buys ships based on party size to maintain a balanced fleet.
Chooses routes by comparing land vs. sea travel time.
Accounts for durability and storm risk when traveling by sea.

Storms

Storms strike unpredictably, but darkening clouds and thunder offer brief warnings.
The Boatswain skill reduces storm damage.

⚓ Port Management and Ship Summoning

Players can:

Buy, repair, and upgrade ships,
Assign ships to clan members,
Summon nearby ships—though travel time scales with distance.

Captured cities do not remove ships from the port; they simply become temporarily inaccessible.

💱 Economic Adjustments

War Sails updates Bannerlord’s tariff revenue system:

Previously capped at ~2%, tariffs can now reach an average of 30%,
And over 60% in major trade hubs.

This significantly increases the importance of trade routes and city specialization.

🧩 Modding and Tools

TaleWorlds is considering moving to a more recent version of .NET.
The new XML Editor is fully compatible with War Sails.

Helldivers 2 Getting Chainsaws and Miniguns in 'Python Commandos' Warbond

G-Man — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:09:40 GMT

Helldivers 2 Python Commandos Premium Warbond

Helldivers 2 Getting Chainsaws and Miniguns in 'Python Commandos' Warbond

G-Man

• November 25, 2025

Helldivers 2’s New Warbond “Python Commandos” Launches December 2

Arrowhead Game Studios has officially announced the latest Premium Warbond for Helldivers 2: Python Commandos. Set to deploy on December 2, this new package focuses heavily on heavy ordnance and jungle-themed equipment, bringing some serious firepower to the galactic front.

The update introduces several highly requested weapon types from the community, alongside fresh customization options for vehicles.

New Weapons and Stratagems

The Python Commandos pack enhances the Helldiver arsenal with three new stratagems and a unique primary weapon. The star of the show, however, is undoubtedly the minigun.

M-1000 Maxigun: Added in response to overwhelming community demand, this support weapon stands out as a belt-fed minigun with an ultra-high ammunition capacity, perfect for sustained suppression.
AR/GL-21 One-Two: A hybrid primary weapon that combines the functionality of an assault rifle and a grenade launcher into a single chassis. While heavy to wield, it offers tactical flexibility by granting players the advantages of two distinct weapon classes simultaneously.
AX/FLAM-75 “Guard Dog” Hot Dog: A new variant of the existing “Guard Dog” rover drone, now equipped with a flamethrower. This drone incinerates enemies before returning to the player’s backpack for refueling.
CQC-9 Defoliation Tool: A new melee weapon designed specifically for clearing dense vegetation in jungle environments—or hacking through enemy limbs.

Armor Sets and Passives

Similar to the previous Viper Commandos Warbond, the Python Commandos armors feature designs that leave the Helldiver’s arms exposed. The pack includes one light and one heavy armor set:

RS-20 Constrictor (Light Armor)
RS-40 Beast of Prey (Heavy Armor)

Both sets come equipped with the “Rock Solid” passive ability. This perk significantly improves stability by reducing stagger and ragdoll effects during combat, allowing Helldivers to hold their ground more effectively under fire.

Cosmetics and Additional Content

Beyond firepower and protection, the Warbond introduces a suite of cosmetic upgrades. A new camouflage pattern, “Chameleon Camo,” will be available for vehicles, Exosuits, and Hellpods.

The collection is rounded out by new capes (Mark of the Constrictor and Foe Rent Asunder), player cards, and a disciplined new emote: the “Front-Leaning Rest Position” (essentially, the push-up position).

The Python Commandos Premium Warbond will be available on all platforms starting December 2.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Review

Skyline — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 23:11:45 GMT

Call of Duty Black Ops 7 Call of Duty Black Ops 7 review Call of Duty Black Ops 7 score

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Review

Skyline

• November 24, 2025

It takes a special kind of “talent” to deliver something worse than the Modern Warfare 3 Remake.

Gaming-DB

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7

After the high of Black Ops 6, the series has plummeted off a cliff with Black Ops 7. It takes a special kind of 'talent' to deliver something worse than the Modern Warfare 3 Remake.

pros

cons

Multiplayer is still the CoD we know and tolerate

Abysmal story mode

Complete lack of polish

Identity crisis

This time last year, I couldn’t stop singing the praises of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. The “omni-movement” system, in particular, had made the gameplay feel smoother and more responsive than ever. Activision took those praises, crumpled them up, and threw them right back in our faces. Ladies and gentlemen, I present the black sheep of the franchise: Black Ops 7.

To illustrate just how broken this game is, let me give you one example—you can imagine the rest. I launched the game for the first time and went to adjust my graphics settings. I wanted to run the system benchmark test. And do you know what the game did? It started searching for a lobby. You heard that right. To test my local hardware performance, the game connected to a server and made me wait a full minute to find a “benchmark lobby.” It’s like a bad joke, but unfortunately, it’s real.

Anatomy of a Disappointment

We could tell something was wrong from the moment the game was announced. The trailer shown during the Xbox showcase threw us all for a loop. We were trying to figure out what game we were looking at until Menendez suddenly appeared, confirming it was indeed Call of Duty. The trailer looked decent in a vacuum, but it absolutely did not look like a CoD title. I was already bracing myself for something on the level of the Modern Warfare 3 Remake. After two disastrous Modern Warfare launches back-to-back, I expected the Black Ops cycle to follow suit, but I’m genuinely shocked it managed to be this bad.

Activision has taken the story of the series’ most iconic character—which concluded perfectly in Black Ops 2—and completely trashed it. The game takes place 10 years after the events of Black Ops 2. I’m about to drop a spoiler, but honestly, the story is so abysmal that I’m probably doing you a favor.

Menendez hasn't actually returned. It turns out Menendez is just an AI construct. The Guild corporation is actually evil. Wow, what an original plot twist. It would take me forty years to come up with that one.

The narrative is cliché, the characters are devoid of personality, the dialogue feels artificial, and the gameplay loop feels like it was designed by toddlers.

Not Story Mode, Torture Mode

What is the core appeal of a Call of Duty campaign? A cinematic blockbuster experience, full of explosions and set pieces, offering a linear but impactful 5-6 hour thrill ride. Black Ops 7 looked at that formula and said, “Let’s throw that in the trash and replace it with a forced 4-player co-op system.”

The campaign is essentially just Warzone or Zombies with cutscenes slapped on top. In story mode, your weapons level up just like they do in multiplayer. If you play solo like I did, you’d expect the AI to take control of the other three squad members, right? Keep dreaming. If you play solo, you are completely alone. The developers were so lazy they didn’t even bother programming friendly AI companions. Yet, you still hear the other characters’ dialogue triggering as if they were there. They’re just ghosts haunting your audio channels.

There is zero tactical depth. Just chaos. To make matters worse, “Level Up” and “Weapon Unlocked” notifications constantly pop up on the screen. Look, I’m in the campaign; I don’t care about your rank-up animations breaking my immersion. Not that there was any atmosphere left to break, anyway.

The level design is equally horrendous. “Go to point A, clear the enemy wave, go to point B.” That is the entire game. There is no cohesion between missions. Why are we here? What are we doing? Who knows. A cutscene ends, the screen goes black, and boom—you’re somewhere else. It feels like watching a playlist of disconnected YouTube clips.

Bullet Sponges and Robots

What do you expect from a military FPS? When you shoot an enemy, they die, right? In Black Ops 7, enemies have health bars. Yes, actual RPG-style health bars floating above their heads. And they refuse to die. You can dump an entire magazine into them, and they barely flinch. The hit registration, that classic satisfying “CoD crunch,” is gone. It’s been replaced by the feeling of shooting a water pistol at a metal wall.

At some point, the developers must have run out of ideas because they decided to integrate Zombies directly into the campaign. Black Ops 6 had a similar mission, but it was a one-off event, and the presentation was actually high quality. Here, they’ve literally just spammed enemies all over the map without rhyme or reason.

A Technical Wreck

The technical state of the game is somehow even worse than the gameplay. Just attempting to play Call of Duty is torture. To get in, you open the launcher, select the game, the game closes itself to restart, then opens again. Sometimes it closes and reopens again. It’s an endless loop of frustration.

The graphics range from mediocre to eye-searing. I wouldn’t call them “ugly” per se, but they lack any form of polish. It looks like a movie with unfinished visual effects. There is no color balance, no artistic touch—just raw, unrefined assets.

Slaughtering the Legacy

We see plenty of legacy Call of Duty characters, but they lack any emotional depth. It’s a transparent attempt at nostalgia baiting—“Look! It’s your favorite characters!!1!”—but they’ve managed to botch that too.

Multiplayer

Let’s talk about the only part of the game remotely worth playing. The Multiplayer mode offers something close to the classic Call of Duty experience. I wasn’t huge on the maps, but they aren’t terrible. Interestingly, the gameplay reminded me a lot of Titanfall 2. In fact, I’m re-downloading Titanfall 2 as I write this review because the movement felt like a knock-off version of it. But at the end of the day, it’s just CoD. It functions, mostly.

Verdict: The End of an Era?

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is the ultimate proof that the series is suffering from an identity crisis and is in freefall. We thought quality would improve after Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision, but things have not gone according to plan. From claiming they would stop the annual release cycle to the last-minute disaster that was Modern Warfare 3 Remake, and now this… the bells are tolling for the Call of Duty franchise.

Gaming-DB

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7

After the high of Black Ops 6, the series has plummeted off a cliff with Black Ops 7. It takes a special kind of 'talent' to deliver something worse than the Modern Warfare 3 Remake.

pros

cons

Multiplayer is still the CoD we know and tolerate

Abysmal story mode

Complete lack of polish

Identity crisis

Dispatch Review

EdgeTypE, translated by G-Man — Sat, 22 Nov 2025 10:56:35 GMT

Dispatch Dispatch review Dispatch gameplay

Dispatch Review

EdgeTypE, translated by G-Man

• November 22, 2025

Dispatch is a solid title, but I firmly believe the hype surrounding it is overstated. It hasn’t brought anything new to the classic Telltale formula. In fact, it feels like a regression. It is a game that is arguably more enjoyable to watch than it is to play.

Gaming-DB

Dispatch

A good game, but definitely overhyped. It fails to build meaningfully upon the Telltale foundation.

pros

cons

Visuals rival top-tier animated series

Excellent storytelling and presentation

The story feels cut short in places

Terrible QTEs

Episodes are too short

I have a soft spot for Telltale games. Minecraft: Story Mode, in particular, holds a special place in my heart. Following its meteoric rise, Telltale crashed just as quickly, and the talent behind it scattered across the industry. One of the fragments from that explosion was the AdHoc team, the developers behind Dispatch. Although AdHoc has faced numerous struggles since 2018, they have finally managed to release their debut title.

After Telltale’s collapse, the genre fell into a bit of a lull. At their peak, Telltale had flooded the market, and players were suffering from fatigue. Since then, we’ve seen various spiritual successors attempt to evolve the formula, but none truly made a splash—fading into obscurity. That is, until Dispatch.

I had been anticipating Dispatch since its announcement. However, when I looked at the discourse surrounding the launch, the praise was overwhelming. People were acting as if this was the Baldur’s Gate 3 of the Telltale formula. Because of this, I advise managing your expectations. It is a good game, but it is not a masterpiece.

The Fall of Mecha Man

Our protagonist, Robert Robertson, isn’t a “super” hero in the biological sense. He fights crime using the Mecha Man suit, a family heirloom passed down from his grandfather to his father, and finally to him. The game opens with Robert seeking revenge against a villain named Shroud, who killed his father. However, things go south, and the Mecha Man suit is destroyed. Having already spent the family fortune building, upgrading, and repairing the suit, Robert is left penniless.

With the help of an old friend, he lands a job at a superhero company called SDN. SDN is a peculiar entity—essentially a private security firm, but for superheroes. If you’re a client, you call them for anything. Whether it’s “A giant is attacking my house, help!” or “Go get me a coffee,” you serve these needs using superheroes. This forms the core gameplay loop: managing a team of heroes and deploying them to jobs that match their specific skill sets.

What Are We Playing?

The gameplay can be fundamentally divided into two parts: Quick Time Events (QTEs) during cutscenes and the superhero management simulator. Let’s start with the QTEs.

QTEs became a staple mechanic in the gaming world, largely popularized by Telltale. Developers needed a way to bridge cinematic storytelling with gameplay, and QTEs were the solution. However, the mechanic was eventually overused to the point of becoming a meme—“Press F to pay respects.”

For the uninitiated: a QTE is when the game pauses or slows down during a cutscene, prompting you to press a specific button within a short window. The QTEs in Dispatch, in my opinion, are poor. First off, the game only asks you to click or hold the left mouse button. There are no other inputs; it is an overly simplified system. Furthermore, they are incredibly fast. While most games slow down time for a QTE, Dispatch requires you to react instantly while the scene continues at normal speed.

It feels as though the developers thought, “Well, we are Telltale successors, we can’t have a game without QTEs!” and tacked them on at the last minute. You can actually disable QTEs in the settings if you wish, allowing you to watch the game like a standard animated series. They pop up out of nowhere, and if you aren’t constantly on edge, you will fail them. While keeping the player alert is the point of a QTE, here it feels poorly implemented. They lack rhythm or system; they just happen. They certainly don’t feel like an organic part of the gameplay.

The second part of the gameplay is the superhero call center. SDN clients call in, and you dispatch available heroes to handle the tasks. You have a map where icons appear when a call comes in. Based on the job description, you deploy a hero. For instance, one hero might have high persuasion, another speed, another raw strength. There are also various synergy bonuses when sending heroes together. You can’t just spam your strongest hero for every task because they have cooldown timers. This forces you to manage your roster carefully. Sometimes, you have to reject trivial calls to save your heavy hitters for critical missions. It’s a simple loop, but the character interactions and dialogue keep it engaging.

In addition to the dispatch management, there are hacking puzzles. Sometimes you need to access a security camera or hack a computer. These puzzles are simple but manage to introduce new mechanics each time to stay fresh. The variety prevents them from becoming monotonous.

Adding to this, the banter between characters during missions makes the world feel alive. Generally, the writing—story, characters, and dialogue—is top-tier. Every character feels fully realized, and their interactions are meticulously crafted.

The presentation quality speaks for itself. Playing it felt like watching Invincible. The game nails the cinematic vibe. The protagonist is voiced by Aaron Paul (Breaking Bad), and the rest of the cast is equally stellar. If they stripped away the gameplay and released this as a series on a streaming platform, no one would complain.

One more thing worth mentioning: the soundtrack is fantastic. I’ve added several tracks to my personal playlist thanks to this game.

An Episodic Experience

Dispatch was released using the episodic model, which was once quite popular. They dropped two episodes every week, totaling eight episodes. Each episode runs about 45-50 minutes, bringing the total playtime to around 7 hours. A significant portion of the episodes is spent in the “superhero dispatch” interface, shortening the actual narrative runtime. It seems budget constraints forced the team to trim the story length.

Initially, I planned to do an episode-by-episode review. However, due to the short runtime, I had to scrap that idea. Half—perhaps more—of that 45-50 minute runtime is strictly gameplay management. The actual story cutscenes amount to roughly 20 minutes per episode. The basic structure looks like this:

[Episode Opening Cutscene] -> [Dispatch Gameplay] -> [Mid-Episode Cutscene] -> [Dispatch Gameplay] -> [Episode Closing Cutscene]

This gives us roughly three 5-10 minute narrative scenes per episode. This is definitely insufficient. However, knowing the budget struggles the team faced, I won’t judge this too harshly. I have immense respect for teams trying to create quality work under difficult conditions, and AdHoc is certainly one of them.

Who is AdHoc?

AdHoc Studio was founded in 2018 following the closure of Telltale Games, comprised of veterans from Ubisoft and Telltale. Originally, they planned Dispatch as a live-action interactive series (FMV). However, when the pandemic hit in 2020, they were forced to pivot. After enduring numerous setbacks, Dispatch managed to launch, albeit in an evolved form. At this point, I wonder if we’ll see a Season 2 or if they will move on to a new IP. The development cycle was prolonged due to budget issues, but reports suggest sales are strong. I am personally curious how long a new season or game would take. One of the key factors in Telltale’s rise was their rapid production pipeline. I’m not sure if AdHoc can match that speed yet.

Is It Worth Playing?

Absolutely. If you have enjoyed any Telltale game in the past, there is no reason you won’t like this. The development team has delivered a very good game given their resources. Between the characters and the dialogue, it is a genuinely enjoyable experience.

Gaming-DB

Dispatch

A good game, but definitely overhyped. It fails to build meaningfully upon the Telltale foundation.

pros

cons

Visuals rival top-tier animated series

Excellent storytelling and presentation

The story feels cut short in places

Terrible QTEs

Episodes are too short

PUBG: Black Budget Announced! Closed Alpha Test Incoming December 2025!

G-Man — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 09:38:13 GMT

PUBG Black Budget PUBG new game PUBG extraction shooter

PUBG: Black Budget Announced! Closed Alpha Test Incoming December 2025!

G-Man

• November 21, 2025

PUBG: Black Budget Announced: Closed Alpha Test Incoming December 2025!

PUBG Studios has officially unveiled its latest tactical extraction shooter, PUBG: Black Budget. Developed under KRAFTON, the game opens up for PC players with a closed alpha test this December 2025.

The test runs over two weekends: December 12-14 and December 19-21. Steam users in North America, Europe, and Asia can participate, with support for English, Korean, Russian, and Chinese languages. It’s FPP-only (first-person perspective) during this alpha phase.

Players can apply via the game’s Steam page. Invited participants will get separate notifications. For guaranteed access, tune into Twitch streams during the test and snag keys via Twitch Drops.

What Does the Game Offer?

PUBG: Black Budget is a tense FPP extraction shooter centered on survival, tension, and the unknown. You’ll step into the boots of a hardened Contractor on a remote island, hired for a black-ops mission.

The island is locked in a time loop, ravaged by a supernatural phenomenon called the Anomaly. Your objective: extract top-secret tech from an abandoned research facility and uncover the truth behind the “SAPIENS” black-budget project.

2.5 × 2.5 km open-world island (varied biomes, points of interest, and underground facilities)
Up to 30-minute sessions blending exploration, combat, and extraction
Persistent inventory: Keep what you extract, lose what you bring if you die
3-player squads with level- and squad-based matchmaking; 45 players per session
Dynamic PvPvE encounters
The Anomaly shrinks the safe zone, ramping up difficulty with each loop
Three rival factions, persistent character progression, expandable personal base, and deep weapon/gear customization

PUBG Studios is running this alpha to gather community feedback and refine core gameplay mechanics. Streamers and players are free to capture, share, and broadcast footage during the test.

Stay tuned for the latest updates on the game.

Everything Announced at Xbox Partner Preview: 007 First Light, Dave the Diver, and More

G-Man — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 21:26:56 GMT

Xbox Partner Preview Xbox Game Pass Ultimate 007 First Light

Everything Announced at Xbox Partner Preview: 007 First Light, Dave the Diver, and More

G-Man

• November 20, 2025

The latest Xbox Partner Preview broadcast just wrapped up, shining a spotlight on third-party studios and their upcoming projects. The 30-minute showcase was packed with world premieres, DLC reveals, and five brand-new game announcements. Perhaps most exciting for players were the three “shadow drops” available to play immediately, along with the confirmation of nine new titles hitting Game Pass Ultimate on day one.

Featuring heavy hitters like IO Interactive, Poncle, THQ Nordic, and Future Friends, the event also emphasized the Xbox Play Anywhere initiative. Every title shown supports the feature, meaning a single digital purchase allows you to play across Xbox consoles and PC seamlessly.

Here is the full breakdown of every major announcement and trailer from the event:

007 First Light

The world of James Bond is synonymous with high-speed chases and cutting-edge gadgetry. 007 First Light intends to honor that legacy with the introduction of the iconic Aston Martin Valhalla. The reveal trailer showcased the state-of-the-art sports coupé, outfitted with “special modifications” (read: heavy weaponry) specifically for 00 agents in the field. This vehicle looks to be a crucial companion for a younger Bond’s operations. The game is scheduled for release on March 27, 2026, for Xbox Series X|S and PC.

Armatus

Counterplay Games revealed the world premiere of Armatus, a third-person roguelite shooter. The trailer set the stage with “The Vanishing,” a mysterious cataclysm that has brought about the end of the world. Players will control a masked warrior summoned to battle demonic horrors amidst the ruins of Paris. With a striking gothic horror aesthetic and a mysterious narrative, Armatus is one to watch. It launches in 2026 for Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Cloud, and will be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one.

CloverPit

CloverPit offers a unique roguelite experience where you are quite literally gambling for your life. Trapped in a room with nothing but a slot machine and an ATM, you must spin to pay off your debts and avoid being dropped through a trapdoor into the abyss. With bizarre prizes and items that trigger massive combos, every run promises a different outcome. The biggest surprise? The game is available today. You can play CloverPit right now on Xbox Series X|S, PC, Cloud, and via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

Crowsworn

Blending fluid combat mechanics with tight platforming, Crowsworn is a stylish action game that demands attention. The world of Fearanndal is under a terrible curse, requiring players to fight through hordes of monsters to unravel the mysteries of these forsaken lands. This visually stunning Metroidvania focuses on exploration, secrets, and ability upgrades. Crowsworn is coming to Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Cloud, and will be a day-one addition to Game Pass Ultimate.

Dave The Diver + In The Jungle DLC

The wait is over—Dave the Diver has officially landed on Xbox today. Xbox Series X|S and PC players can finally dive into this acclaimed deep-sea RPG, exploring the Blue Hole by day and running a successful sushi restaurant by night. Additionally, we got a first look at the “In The Jungle” DLC, which takes Dave onto dry land to explore jungle settlements and battle a massive crocodile. The base game is available now (including on Game Pass), with the DLC slated for early 2026.

Echo Generation 2

Developer Cococumber announced the sequel to their voxel adventure hit, Echo Generation. Echo Generation 2 retains the spooky, supernatural atmosphere of the original while introducing explosive turn-based combat against cosmic horrors and rampaging robots. Heavily inspired by 80s and 90s action cinema, the game features charming details like a Gremlins-esque combat companion. It is coming soon to Xbox Series X|S, PC, Cloud, and Xbox Game Pass.

Erosion

Erosion is an isometric action game set in a stylish, Wild West-themed voxel world with a fascinating twist: the passage of time. When you die, you respawn 10 years later. The world changes, characters age, and the landscape evolves, creating a sense of urgency to find what you are looking for. Erosion will launch in Spring 2026 via Xbox Game Preview on PC before coming to consoles, and it will be on Game Pass day one.

Hitman World of Assassination

The next “Elusive Target” mission for Hitman World of Assassination is embracing a truly wild concept. Agent 47 has been tasked by none other than rapper Eminem to hunt down his alter ego, Slim Shady. In this universe, the younger Slim Shady has manifested as a separate, violent entity. The real Eminem, fearing his creation is coming for him, has hired 47 to solve the problem.

The Mound: Omen of Cthulhu

Drawing heavy inspiration from the Lovecraftian mythos, this co-op horror game follows a team of explorers venturing into uncanny territory. The trailer for The Mound: Omen of Cthulhu depicted a mysterious coastline surrounded by dangerous jungles and incomprehensible supernatural forces. Players must work together to survive and uncover treasures in an environment where the perception of reality is constantly shifting. It is set to launch in Summer 2026 for Xbox Series X|S.

Raji: Kaliyuga

The award-winning indie action-adventure Raji: An Ancient Epic is officially getting a sequel. Raji: Kaliyuga takes place six years after the first game, expanding the scope from a mortal war to a cosmic struggle involving gods, asuras, and mystical forces. Controlling both Raji and her brother Darsh, the game makes a bold transition from the isometric view of the original to a full third-person action-adventure perspective. It will be available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Cloud, launching day one on Game Pass.

Reanimal

From the creators of Little Nightmares comes Reanimal, a dark and atmospheric co-op horror title. You play as a brother and sister attempting to rescue their missing friends and escape their home, which has been overrun by terrifying creatures. The new trailer highlighted various zones of this nightmarish world and showcased survival mechanics. While the full game launches in February 2026, a demo is available to play today.

Roadside Research

If you have ever wanted to roleplay as an alien undercover at a rural gas station, Roadside Research is the game for you. This comedy-focused co-op simulation tasks players with running a shop and stocking shelves while secretly conducting research on human customers to gather intelligence. However, arouse too much suspicion, and government agents will arrive to compromise your mission. Expect it in Q1 2026 on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Cloud, launching day one on Game Pass.

Tides of Annihilation

Inspired by Arthurian legend, Tides of Annihilation is a fantasy action-adventure that debuted an impressive gameplay trailer. The footage showed protagonist Gwendolyn battling a massive winged entity, utilizing a mechanic that allows her to shift between different realities to gain a tactical advantage. The fast-paced combat system, punctuated by cinematic moments, looks promising. It is currently in development for Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Cloud.

Total Chaos

From the creator of Turbo Overkill comes Total Chaos, a first-person survival horror game filled with mysteries to solve and monsters to kill (or flee from). Scavenge for materials to craft makeshift weapons and uncover a nightmarish story in a gritty, unsettling world. In a welcome surprise, the game is available today across Xbox Series X|S, PC, Cloud, and Game Pass Ultimate.

Vampire Crawlers

Poncle, the creator of Vampire Survivors, is taking their chaotic signature style to the first-person dungeon crawler genre with Vampire Crawlers. Featuring deckbuilding mechanics and familiar power-ups like garlic, whips, and bibles, the game offers a fresh perspective on the addictive loop fans know and love. It is coming soon to Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Cloud, and will be on Game Pass Ultimate day one.

Zoopunk

Part of the F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch universe, Zoopunk is a new action title from TiGames. Players control a group of anthropomorphic animals wielding traditional weaponry as they hunt for a mysterious object known as the “Spark.” The game features a third-person camera with a fast combat system, acrobatic movement, and explosive abilities. This sci-fi adventure is targeting a 2027 release.

Blender 5.0 Released: Major Upgrades in Color Management, Rendering, and the Sequencer

Skyline — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 17:21:11 GMT

Blender 5.0 Blender 2025 blender

Blender 5.0 Released: Major Upgrades in Color Management, Rendering, and the Sequencer

Skyline

• November 19, 2025

Blender 5.0 Released: Major Upgrades in Color Management, Rendering, and the Sequencer

Blender’s newest major release, Blender 5.0, has officially landed—and it brings some of the most transformative updates the software has seen in years. The update introduces a completely modernized approach to color management, major enhancements to both rendering engines, a redesigned Video Sequencer, and significant improvements to Grease Pencil.
Blender 5.0 aims to deliver a faster, more flexible, and more production-ready workflow for both individual creators and large studio pipelines.

🎨 The HDR Era: Wide-Gamut and Modern Color Management

Blender 5.0 ships with an entirely redesigned color management system.
Wide-gamut and HDR color spaces are now supported natively across the application.

Key improvements include:

Built-in ACES 1.3 and 2.0 view transforms.
Direct HDR output with Rec.2100-PQ and Rec.2100-HLG.
A new Blend File Working Color Space, enabling per-file wide-gamut settings.
Materials and lights can now be authored in wide-gamut spaces like Linear Rec.2020 and ACEScg.

With this overhaul, Blender is now significantly closer to professional ACES-based pipelines used across VFX, animation, and high-end color grading.

☀️ More Realistic Sky and Lighting Behavior

The Sky Texture node now uses a multiple scattering model, producing far more accurate lighting for both outdoor and interior scenes.
With a single animated parameter, artists can simulate dramatic sunset atmospheres in seconds.

The new Radial Tiling node also makes pattern and shape generation much easier.

🔥 Rendering Improvements Across the Board

Cycles

A new unbiased null-scattering volume algorithm eliminates blocky artifacts in smoke, fire, fog, and other volumetric effects.
Improved random walk SSS results in more realistic skin and organic materials.
Thin Film effects now work on metallic surfaces.
Adaptive Subdivision is now officially out of experimental mode and enabled by default.

EEVEE

Material compilation times have been significantly reduced—up to 4× faster on NVIDIA + Vulkan setups.
Updated MatCaps offer cleaner, more readable shading.
Full support for 32-bit HDR images.

🎬 Video Sequencer: A Complete Redesign

Blender 5.0 delivers the long-awaited overhaul to the Video Sequencer.

Highlights include:

Strip settings have moved to the Properties Editor, creating a more unified UI experience.
The Sequencer now supports multi-scene editing with ease.
A new “Playback Controls” region removes the need to constantly switch to the Timeline.
With the Compositor Modifier, hundreds of compositor nodes can now be applied directly during video editing.

The Sequencer is now far more consistent with other editors inside Blender.

✏️ Grease Pencil 5.0: Motion Blur and New Drawing Tools

Great news for 2D/3D hybrid artists—Grease Pencil receives a major update:

Objects can now use motion blur.
Each point supports its own corner type (Round / Sharp / Flat).
Looped strokes now close correctly.
New pen tools, improved Bézier-Catmull-Rom interpolation, and updated SVG export options.

🧱 Modeling and UV Enhancements

The redesigned Array Modifier adds circular distribution, randomness, and more.
New Scatter, Instance, and Randomize modifiers are built on Geometry Nodes.
UV Sync has been fully reworked and is now enabled by default.

🖥 Production-Ready: VFX Reference Platform 2025 Alignment

Like other major DCC apps releasing in 2025, Blender 5.0 aligns all its libraries with the VFX Reference Platform 2025.
This ensures easier integration into professional studio pipelines and cross-software compatibility.

🎁 New Human Anatomy Assets

Blender’s free asset library now includes a fully detailed Human Base Mesh 1.4.0, featuring a complete, realistic skeleton model.
It’s public-domain, meaning it’s free for both educational and commercial use.

Final Thoughts

Blender 5.0 isn’t just a feature update—it’s a generational leap in color science, rendering, animation workflows, and video editing. Whether you’re a solo artist or part of a large studio, Blender 5.0 delivers a dramatically more powerful and modern production environment.

New Hytale Gameplay Footage Arrives After Years of Silence!

G-Man — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 10:09:46 GMT

Hytale Hytale gameplay video Hytale gameplay

New Hytale Gameplay Footage Arrives After Years of Silence!

G-Man

• November 19, 2025

Hytale Returns: Comprehensive 16-Minute Gameplay Video Released

After a long period of radio silence and reports of cancellation, Hytale is back from the brink, thanks to the tireless efforts of its development team. Hypixel Studios has broken the silence with a detailed 16-minute gameplay video showcasing the current state of the game.

Just a few months ago, reports suggested that Riot Games had pulled the plug on the project, with the development team facing layoffs. However, the Hypixel team somehow managed to resurrect the project. This new footage focuses specifically on the game’s action, exploration, and technical infrastructure.

Advanced Combat Mechanics and Action System

The focal point of the released video is the game’s action system. Unlike similar voxel-based games, Hytale promises a much more fluid and tactical combat experience. Here are the details that stand out in the video:

Weapon Variety: Players are seen using various weapon types such as swords, shields, maces, axes, and magic staffs. Each weapon appears to have its own unique hit weight and animation set.
Combos and Defense: Instead of monotonous clicking, mechanics like dashing, blocking, and counter-attacks have been integrated into the gameplay. Shield usage and timed strikes, in particular, seem to determine the fate of battles.
Magic and Ranged Attacks: Alongside archery, the use of magic with different elemental properties was detailed. The spell effects and their impact on enemies look striking.
Enemy AI: Skeletons, goblin-like creatures, and massive boss fights were shown. It was observed that enemies react to the player, attack in groups, and utilize distinct tactics.

World Design and Atmosphere

Another highlight of the video is Hytale’s atmosphere. A wide variety of biomes were showcased, from underground dungeons to snowy mountains, mystic forests to barren wastelands. Lighting effects, water physics, and vegetation swaying in the wind demonstrate the game’s visual quality.

Additionally, the final segments of the video offered a brief look at the game’s Content Creation Tools. This serves as a reminder of how much importance Hytale places on the community producing its own content.

No specific release date for Hytale has been shared yet, but this video shows that the project is moving forward with confidence.

Hytale Saved: Original Developers Buy Back Project From Riot Games

G-Man — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 18:14:30 GMT

Hytale Hytale News Hytale Update

Hytale Saved: Original Developers Buy Back Project From Riot Games

G-Man

• November 17, 2025

Hytale Saved from Cancellation: Original Developers Buy Back the Game from Riot Games

Just when all hope seemed lost for the long-awaited title once hailed as a “Minecraft rival,” the gaming world was hit with a seismic announcement. The original founders of Hypixel have officially bought back the rights to Hytale from Riot Games, saving the project from cancellation. With a personal 10-year funding commitment, the team is reassembling to bring the game back to its original vision.

In a statement, Hypixel founder Simon Collins-Laflamme expressed gratitude to Riot Games, noting that while it didn’t make sense for them to continue development in its existing form, they ultimately wanted what was best for players, which made the transfer possible. As part of the transition, more than 30 former developers with intimate knowledge of the game have already been rehired.

Back to the Roots: Development to Continue with the Legacy Engine

The development team provided a transparent update on the project’s current state. It was revealed that two different engines were in development for Hytale: the Legacy Engine (C#/Java), used in the original trailer and early blog posts, and a Cross-platform Engine (C++) that has been in the works for the last three years.

The team concluded that the new engine was significantly behind in terms of gameplay features and would require at least two more years to be early-access-ready. In a radical move, they have decided to halt development of the new engine and revert to the original, playable Legacy Engine. This decision is expected to accelerate the development timeline and get the game into players’ hands sooner.

What to Expect in Early Access

Initial details about Hytale’s early access phase have been shared. Here’s a summary of what players can expect:

Release Date and Price: To be announced in the coming days.
Platform: It will launch exclusively on Windows. Support for Linux and Mac will be attempted, with other platforms considered much later.
Early Access Content: Players will initially have access to Exploration Mode, Creative Mode, and Modding tools.
Coming Later: The highly anticipated Minigames and Adventure Mode will enter full development after the core game mechanics are stable.
State of the Game: The team has been upfront that the early access version will have bugs, unbalanced content, and frequent updates that may break saves. This phase is being described as a “genuine early access” experience, expected to last at least a few years.

Mod Support: The Heart and Future of Hytale

The developers emphasized that modding is critical to the game’s long-term survival. The early access launch will include the most comprehensive modding tools and access possible. Server source code access is also planned a few months post-launch, once legal hurdles are cleared, allowing the community to create their own minigames, servers, and unique experiences.

Transparent Communication and Community-Focused Development

The team has committed to maintaining continuous and transparent communication with the community throughout the development process. In the coming days, they plan to release raw gameplay footage, detailed patch notes, a blog post on modding capabilities, and pricing details.

Hytale’s new journey will be shaped by the collaborative efforts of a small, dedicated team and a community that refused to give up. After a long and challenging road, Hytale is rising from the ashes, preparing to finally meet its players.

Game of the Year Nominees Revealed! Expedition 33, KCD 2...

Skyline — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 17:29:30 GMT

The Game Awards 2025 TGA 2025 Game of the Year

Game of the Year Nominees Revealed! Expedition 33, KCD 2...

Skyline

• November 17, 2025

The Game Awards 2025 Nominees Are Here

The nominees for The Game Awards 2025, one of the most talked-about events in the gaming world, have officially been announced. The ceremony will be held on December 11 (GMT), where the year’s standout titles will battle for industry-defining awards.

Although several categories leaked online shortly before the reveal, today’s announcement confirms the full, final lineup. This year’s selection is packed with heavy hitters—Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, Hollow Knight: Silksong, and Hades II dominate multiple categories, highlighting just how stacked 2025 has been.

Below is a complete breakdown of the major categories and their nominees:

Game of the Year

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Death Stranding 2: On The Beach
Donkey Kong Bananza
Hades II
Hollow Knight: Silksong
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II

Best Game Direction

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Death Stranding 2: On The Beach
Ghost of Yōtei
Hades II
Split Fiction

Best Narrative

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Death Stranding 2: On The Beach
Ghost of Yōtei
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
Silent Hill f

Best Art Direction

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Death Stranding 2: On The Beach
Ghost of Yōtei
Hades II
Hollow Knight: Silksong

Best Score & Music

Christopher Larkin — Hollow Knight: Silksong
Darren Korb — Hades II
Lorien Testard — Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Toma Otowa — Ghost of Yōtei
Woodkid & Ludvig Forssell — Death Stranding 2: On The Beach

Best Audio Design

Battlefield 6
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Death Stranding 2: On The Beach
Ghost of Yōtei
Silent Hill f

Best Performance

Ben Starr — Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Charlie Cox — Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Erika Ishii — Ghost of Yōtei
Jennifer English — Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Konatsu Kato — Silent Hill f
Troy Baker — Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

Innovation in Accessibility

Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Atomfall
Doom: The Dark Ages
EA Sports FC 26
South of Midnight

Games for Impact

Consume Me
Despelote
Lost Records: Bloom & Rage
South of Midnight
Wanderstop

Best Ongoing Game

Final Fantasy XIV
Fortnite
Helldivers 2
Marvel Rivals
No Man’s Sky

Best Community Support

Baldur’s Gate 3
Final Fantasy XIV
Fortnite
Helldivers 2
No Man’s Sky

Best Independent Game

Absolum
Ball x Pit
Blue Prince
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Hades II
Hollow Knight: Silksong

Best Debut Indie Game

Blue Prince
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Despelote
Dispatch
Megabonk

Best Mobile Game

Destiny: Rising
Persona 5: The Phantom X
Sonic Rumble
Umamusume: Pretty Derby
Wuthering Waves

Best VR/AR

Alien: Rogue Incursion
Arken Age
Ghost Town
Marvel’s Deadpool VR
The Midnight Walk

Best Action

Battlefield 6
Doom: The Dark Ages
Hades II
Ninja Gaiden 4
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance

Best Action/Adventure

Death Stranding 2: On The Beach
Ghost of Yōtei
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
Hollow Knight: Silksong
Split Fiction

Best RPG

Avowed
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
The Outer Worlds 2
Monster Hunter Wilds

Best Fighting Game

2XKO
Capcom Fighting Collection 2
Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves
Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection
Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. World Stage

Best Family Game

Donkey Kong Bananza
LEGO Party!
LEGO Voyagers
Mario Kart World
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds
Split Fiction

Best Sim/Strategy

The Alters
Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles
Jurassic World Evolution 3
Civilization VII
Tempest Rising
Two Point Museum

Best Sports/Racing

EA Sports FC 26
F1 25
Mario Kart World
Rematch
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds

Best Multiplayer

Arc Raiders
Battlefield 6
Elden Ring: Nightreign
Peak
Split Fiction

Best Adaptation

A Minecraft Movie
Devil May Cry
The Last of Us: Season 2
Splinter Cell: Deathwatch
Until Dawn

Most Anticipated Game

007: First Light
Grand Theft Auto VI
Marvel’s Wolverine
Resident Evil Requiem
The Witcher IV

Content Creator of the Year

Caedrel
Kai Cenat
MoistCr1TiKaL
Sakura Miko
The Burnt Peanut

Best Esports Game

Counter-Strike 2
DOTA 2
League of Legends
Mobile Legends: Bang Bang
Valorant

Best Esports Athlete

brawk
Chovy
f0rsakeN
Kakeru
MenaRD
Zyw0o

Best Esports Team

Gen.G — League of Legends
NRG — Valorant
Team Falcons — DOTA 2
Team Liquid PH — MLBB
Team Vitality — CS2

The winners of The Game Awards 2025 will be revealed during the live ceremony on December 11 (GMT).

Who do you think takes home the big prizes this year?

Xbox Partner Preview Announced: Get Ready for James Bond, Reanimal, and More!

G-Man — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 16:26:53 GMT

Xbox Partner Preview Xbox Microsoft

Xbox Partner Preview Announced: Get Ready for James Bond, Reanimal, and More!

G-Man

• November 17, 2025

Xbox Announces New Partner Preview Showcase: Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Microsoft has announced its next digital event, an Xbox Partner Preview showcase that will focus on upcoming games developed by the company’s third-party partners.

What to Expect from the Xbox Partner Preview

The event will feature new information on projects from major developers and publishers, including IO Interactive, Tencent, and THQ Nordic.

Several key highlights have already been confirmed for the broadcast:

007 First Light: A first look at new content for the highly anticipated James Bond title.
Tides of Annihilation: An extended gameplay trailer for the dark fantasy epic. It was also noted that Jennifer English, the voice of protagonist Gwendolyn, will be the event’s narrator.
Reanimal: Fresh footage from the new horror-adventure game by the creators of the acclaimed Little Nightmares.

Alongside these highlights, the event promises world premieres for unannounced games and new additions to the Xbox Game Pass library.

Microsoft also emphasized that all games shown during the broadcast will support Xbox Play Anywhere, allowing players to own them on both Xbox consoles and PC with a single purchase.

When and Where to Watch

The Xbox Partner Preview will be broadcast live worldwide. Here are the details:

Date: Thursday, November 20
Time: 10:00 AM PT / 1:00 PM ET / 6:00 PM GMT

Half-Life 3 Feels Closer Than Ever Amidst a Storm of Leaks and Rumors

G-Man — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 18:36:29 GMT

half life 3 half life 3 release date when is half life 3 coming out

Half-Life 3 Feels Closer Than Ever Amidst a Storm of Leaks and Rumors

G-Man

• November 14, 2025

The Whispers of Half-Life 3 Grow Louder

Half-Life 3, arguably the most enduring myth in the gaming world, has once again rocketed to the top of the conversation in November 2025. A confluence of technical leaks, cryptic comments from trusted industry insiders, and a surprise hardware reveal from Valve has sent the community into a frenzy, oscillating between unbridled hope and familiar disappointment.

The developments have unfolded with a rare intensity, each day building on the last. We’ve prepared a chronological breakdown of the recent events that have reignited the decades-long vigil for Half-Life 3.

Before the Storm: The “HLX” Leaks

The November hype storm didn’t appear out of thin air; it was built on a foundation of technical evidence gathered throughout 2025.

Throughout the year, dataminers found traces of a project codenamed “HLX” within updates for DOTA 2 and Counter-Strike 2. The CS2 update on October 15, 2025, was particularly crucial. Miners uncovered references to Half-Life 2 mechanics like “Thumpers” and advanced physics engine strings such as “fluid drag.” This was widely interpreted to mean that “Project HLX” was in its final “polishing” stage of development.
Building on these technical leaks, the “November 18th Theory” emerged on Reddit around November 7-8. This theory was based on an intentionally vacant spot in Valve’s official Steam event calendar, which also coincided with the anniversary week of Half-Life: Alyx’s announcement.

The Rumor Storm

The ecosystem of speculation reached its zenith during the week of November 11th, fueled by tantalizing hints from reliable sources.

November 11: Shpeshal_NickIndustry insider Shpeshal_Nick fanned the flames with a tweet on November 11th:

"If* what I was just DMd is actually true (big if), next week GTA 6 could actually have it's thunder stolen on the hype scale lmao"

November 12 (Morning): Moore’s Law Is DeadThis was quickly followed by a hint from the tech-focused source Moore’s Law Is Dead:
```
"If you're a fan of @valvesoftware, check the news in around 16 hours..."
```
November 12 (Afternoon): Valve’s Big AnnouncementWith all eyes expecting Half-Life 3, Valve made its grand reveal on November 12th. It wasn’t a game, but a new hardware trifecta slated for a 2026 release: the next-generation Steam Machine, the standalone Steam Frame VR headset, and a new Steam Controller.

Fueling the Fire

Furthermore, a detail in the Steam Machine promotional video, released by Valve on November 12th, did not escape the community’s eagle eyes. Stickers adorned the new Steam Machine, bearing the words “SOON™,” “H,” and “CENS(ORED).” A censored letter “H” was immediately interpreted as a deliberate, if playful, nod to Half-Life.

Expectations and Renewed Hope

The initial 24 hours of disappointment quickly gave way to a new, more compelling theory: this powerful new hardware needs a “killer app.” Just as Half-Life: Alyx drove sales for the Valve Index VR headset, many now believe “HLX” is destined to be the flagship launch title for the new Steam Frame and Steam Machine.

Developments supporting this new narrative followed swiftly:

November 13: Mike StrawMike Straw of Insider Gaming suggested on November 13th that the hardware reveal wasn’t the end of the story:
```
"BTW, Valve isn't done with the big announcements. Soon enough there's going to be something else"
```
November 13: The “Secret” Steam GameOn the same day, users discovered that Valve’s official Steam developer page listed two upcoming titles. One is the known-from-leaks shooter Deadlock, while the other remains a complete mystery. Speculation is rampant that this is the placeholder for Half-Life 3.

Loading Tweet...

November 14: GabeFollowerKnown Valve insider GabeFollower stood by his claims on November 14th:

"Valve insider GabeFollower says according to their info Valve is still aiming to release Half Life 3 this year."

Current Status: All Eyes on November 19th

As it stands, the community has now pinned its hopes on November 19th—the anniversary of the original Half-Life’s release.

The right man in the wrong place can make all the difference in the world. We will be watching closely and will bring you any news as it breaks. Stay tuned.

Ninja Gaiden 4 Review

EdgeTypE, Translated by G-Man — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 11:01:59 GMT

Ninja Gaiden 4 Ninja Gaiden 4 Review Team Ninja

Ninja Gaiden 4 Review

EdgeTypE, Translated by G-Man

• November 13, 2025

The legendary Ninja Gaiden series has returned after a long hiatus. But does this comeback live up to its storied legacy? Let’s dive in.

Gaming-DB

Ninja Gaiden 4

A solid, pure action game that doesn't promise more than it delivers. While not a masterpiece, it's a satisfyingly good time.

pros

cons

Pure action gameplay

Varied mechanics

Impressive graphics

Story is almost non-existent

Becomes repetitive

Poor keyboard and mouse controls

Let’s be clear: Ninja Gaiden 4 is a straightforward hack-and-slash. It’s one of those games where you can switch off your brain, ignore the plot, and simply carve through anything that moves. In today’s market, that’s a rare breed, which earns it some immediate goodwill.

A Tale of a Dragon, Barely Told

As someone who isn’t a long-time veteran of the series—my only experience being the polished Ninja Gaiden 2 Black earlier this year—I may have missed subtle narrative nods intended for die-hard fans. If you’re a series purist and want to avoid any spoilers for the story or gameplay, I suggest you stop reading here.

The game is set in a future where Tokyo has transformed into a Gotham-like metropolis. Our new protagonist, Yakumo, and his clan aim to save the city by reviving the Dark Dragon—an entity Ryu Hayabusa has already defeated three times—just to kill it one more time. Throughout the game, our enemies, including Ryu Hayabusa himself, attempt to stop this revival. It seems Ryu is understandably tired of this resurrect-and-destroy cycle.

That’s pretty much the entire story. While you don’t typically play a Ninja Gaiden game for its deep narrative, the near-total absence of a compelling plot can wear down your motivation. My playthrough, focusing solely on the main story, clocked in at around 14 hours. A flawless, deathless run could probably be done in 6-7 hours, but this is Ninja Gaiden, so that’s unlikely. Over such a lengthy playtime, even varied gameplay can’t entirely make up for the lack of a narrative driving force.

The Way of the Blade

You play as both Yakumo and Ryu Hayabusa across 19 chapters, but only five of these are dedicated to Ryu. These sections are also significantly shorter and feel more like rushed, repetitive versions of Yakumo’s levels, which left me wanting more.

Yakumo is the clear focus, equipped with five different weapons, from dual katanas to a spear and a staff that transforms into a hammer. While the weapons don’t feel radically different from one another, they provide enough variety to keep combat engaging. You unlock new skills and moves as you progress, though you won’t earn enough in-game currency to unlock everything by just playing the main story; you’ll need to dip into side quests for that. Thankfully, the game doesn’t gate your main story progression behind these optional tasks.

To break up the relentless combat, the game introduces parkour sections reminiscent of Ghostrunner. You’ll find yourself grinding on metro rails, grappling like Spider-Man, gliding on air currents, and even surfing on waves. I found these segments to be a welcome addition, adding a fresh dynamic to the gameplay loop.

Ryu Hayabusa’s inclusion feels more like fan service than a fully integrated feature. It seems the developers chose to focus their limited budget on making Yakumo a complete character rather than splitting their resources. Ryu’s levels reuse enemies, bosses, and environments from Yakumo’s campaign. However, these sections do an excellent job of conveying Ryu’s legendary power; he’s significantly stronger, making these familiar encounters easier. The game cleverly highlights his superiority in other ways, too. Where Yakumo needs equipment to traverse certain obstacles, Ryu simply powers through them. While Yakumo needs a surfboard, Ryu runs on water.

A word of warning: if you plan on playing, a controller is highly recommended. The keyboard and mouse controls, while better than past entries, still feel clunky, especially during the fast-paced parkour sections where aiming the grappling hook can be problematic.

Graphics and Performance

Initial trailers for Ninja Gaiden 4 didn’t do it justice. The final game, however, is visually impressive. The graphics and atmosphere are beautifully rendered, creating a striking, Gotham-esque Tokyo. The game performed well, with only minor bugs like getting stuck on geometry and a single instance of audio desync in a cutscene. From a technical standpoint, the game is solid.

The Ninja Gaiden series is known for its punishing difficulty. I played on the easiest setting, which felt challenging enough for a newcomer. The developers, perhaps wary of the series’ reputation, have even included an auto-play feature. If you’re still struggling on the easiest difficulty, you can enable auto-combat and auto-dodge, allowing the AI to take over. I tested it on a boss I couldn’t beat, and it works exactly as advertised.

I loved the small touch of the main menu changing to a bright, liberated Tokyo after completing the game. The credits are also playable—you fight off remaining enemies in the city you saved as the names roll. It's a fantastic feature, reminiscent of Assassin's Creed 2 but executed far better.

Conclusion

There isn’t much more to say about Ninja Gaiden 4. It’s a linear, no-frills hack-and-slash that delivers exactly what it promises. In an age where every action game seems to be chasing the Souls-like trend, this feels like a welcome throwback. If you’re nostalgic for the golden age of pure action games, Ninja Gaiden 4 is definitely worth a look.

Gaming-DB

Ninja Gaiden 4

A solid, pure action game that doesn't promise more than it delivers. While not a masterpiece, it's a satisfyingly good time.

pros

cons

Pure action gameplay

Varied mechanics

Impressive graphics

Story is almost non-existent

Becomes repetitive

Poor keyboard and mouse controls

New Horizon Game Announced, and It's an MMORPG!

Nomad, G-Man — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 10:12:10 GMT

Horizon Steel Frontiers Horizon MMORPG New Horizon Game

New Horizon Game Announced, and It's an MMORPG!

Nomad, G-Man

• November 13, 2025

A New Horizon Game Has Been Announced: This Time, It’s an MMORPG

In a surprise reveal at G-Star 2025, South Korean gaming giant NCSOFT, in collaboration with Guerrilla Games, has officially announced Horizon Steel Frontiers. This new title is an ambitious MMORPG set in the critically acclaimed Horizon universe, showcased with a stunning debut trailer.

The Horizon Universe Expands into a Massive Online World

Developed in partnership between NCSOFT and Guerrilla Games, Horizon Steel Frontiers aims to translate the core mechanics of the Horizon franchise into a massive multiplayer experience. Players will step into the boots of a machine hunter in the treacherous region known as the “Deadlands,” carving out their own adventures.

The initial trailer provides a tantalizing glimpse into the game’s world and atmosphere. It features the lush forests, post-apocalyptic vistas, and colossal machine lifeforms that fans of Horizon Zero Dawn and Forbidden West have come to love. The footage highlights both solo and cooperative battles against these massive mechanical beasts, suggesting a strong emphasis on group play.

A Focus on Combat and Player Freedom

“When I first experienced Horizon Zero Dawn in 2017, the idea of exploring this incredible world alone felt a bit bittersweet,” said Taekjin Kim, CEO of NCSOFT. “I imagined how exciting it would be to meet others, team up, and fight these massive machines together.”

Driven by this vision, Horizon Steel Frontiers is being built to offer players extensive freedom. Executive Producer Sung-Gu Lee emphasized that every player will be the hero of their own story, pointing to the game’s deep character customization options. Players can choose from familiar tribes like the Nora, Carja, Oseram, and Tenakth to create their own unique characters.

The game promises to retain the series’ iconic hunting mechanics while introducing the scale and dynamism that only an MMORPG can provide. Large-scale battles against giant machines will require cooperation and strategic thinking.

Cross-Platform Support for PC and Mobile

Jan-Bart van Beek, Studio Director at Guerrilla, expressed his excitement about the collaboration with NCSOFT, stating that the project will bring a fresh perspective to the Horizon universe.

Horizon Steel Frontiers is confirmed for release on both PC and mobile devices, featuring full cross-platform support. More details about the game are expected to be revealed gradually through the official website. We’ll be keeping a close eye on this one and will bring you updates as they become available.

Valve Announces Its Next-Gen Hardware Lineup!

Asimov — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 18:30:41 GMT

Valve Steam Steam Machine

Valve Announces Its Next-Gen Hardware Lineup!

Asimov

• November 12, 2025

Valve Expands Hardware Family Post-Steam Deck: Introducing the New Steam Machine, Steam Controller, and Steam Frame

Valve has unveiled its new hardware family, designed to give players even more ways to access their Steam library. Following in the footsteps of the Steam Deck, all three new devices will run on SteamOS, aiming to create a seamless and integrated ecosystem. The company also announced that it will expand its “Deck Verified” program to include these new devices, allowing users to see at a glance how games will perform on the new hardware.

The Console-Like PC Experience: Steam Machine

Rising from the ashes of Valve’s previous attempt years ago, the Steam Machine is back with a much more ambitious feature set. Designed for the living room, this compact and powerful gaming PC aims to merge the convenience of a console with the flexibility of a PC.

Key Features:

Design: Housed in a stylish and compact cube form factor (approximately 16cm), the device is engineered to run cool and quiet even while playing the most demanding games.
Performance: At its heart is a custom AMD Zen 4 CPU and an RDNA 3-based GPU. With this hardware, Valve is targeting a 4K, 60 FPS gaming experience.
Storage: Two NVMe SSD options will be available: 512 GB and 2 TB. Both models will also feature a microSD card slot for expandable storage.
Connectivity: It offers a rich selection of I/O, including Gigabit Ethernet, DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, one USB-C, and four USB-A ports. Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 support are also included.
Integrated Steam Controller Support: The Steam Machine features a built-in wireless adapter to pair directly with the new Steam Controller, supporting up to four controllers without the need for an external dongle.
LED Strip: A customizable RGB LED strip on the front of the unit provides visual system status notifications, such as download progress.

While optimized for gaming, the Steam Machine is fundamentally a PC. Users will have the freedom to install other applications or even different operating systems if they choose.

The Revamped Controller: Steam Controller

Valve has completely redesigned the Steam Controller, which received mixed reviews in its first iteration. The new model aims to offer both a traditional controller feel and the flexibility needed for keyboard-and-mouse-centric games.

Key Features:

Magnetic Analog Sticks: Utilizing TMR technology for better response time and long-term durability, the new magnetic sticks promise to eliminate the dreaded “stick drift” issue.
Advanced Trackpads: Two haptic feedback trackpads provide precise control, especially for strategy and shooter games.
Grip-Activated Gyro: A new “grip-sense” feature allows players to momentarily activate gyro aiming by squeezing the sides of the controller and release it just as quickly.
Steam Controller Puck: Included in the box, the Puck serves as both a low-latency wireless dongle and a magnetic charging dock for the controller. The controller also supports Bluetooth and wired connections.
High-Fidelity Haptics: Advanced LRA haptic motors provide more precise and impactful tactile feedback.
Battery Life: The internal lithium-ion battery is stated to offer over 35 hours of gameplay on a single charge.

A New Vision for Virtual Reality: Steam Frame

The most innovative member of Valve’s new hardware family is the Steam Frame. This device stands out as both a wireless VR headset that can stream games from your PC and a powerful standalone device capable of running games on its own.

Key Features:

Display and Optics: It uses custom pancake lenses for edge-to-edge clarity and a wide field of view, paired with 2160x2160 resolution LCD panels for each eye. The headset supports refresh rates up to 120Hz, with an experimental 144Hz mode.
High-Quality Streaming: A dedicated Wi-Fi 6E wireless adapter is included in the box to ensure a low-latency experience. The headset’s dual-antenna setup uses one for the game stream and the other for your Wi-Fi network, preventing bandwidth competition.
Foveated Streaming: The device features built-in eye-tracking cameras. This technology optimizes performance and bandwidth by rendering only the exact spot you’re looking at in the highest quality, significantly boosting image fidelity without a performance hit.
Standalone Operation: Powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and 16GB of RAM, the Steam Frame can run both VR and traditional games without being connected to a PC. Similar to the Deck, a “Steam Frame Verified” program will indicate which titles run flawlessly in standalone mode.
Controllers: Designed for both VR and traditional gaming, the controllers feature a full standard layout (ABXY, D-Pad, analog sticks). They also incorporate VR-specific tech like 6-DoF motion tracking and capacitive finger tracking.

All three new hardware devices are set to launch in early 2026 and are available to wishlist on the Steam store now.

BioWare Celebrates N7 Day with Mass Effect Series Update!

Nomad — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 13:32:55 GMT

Mass Effect new game Mass Effect 5 BioWare Mass Effect

BioWare Celebrates N7 Day with Mass Effect Series Update!

Nomad

• November 7, 2025

Mass Effect’s Future Confirmed: New Game Still in Development

BioWare Executive Producer and head of the next Mass Effect game, Mike Gamble, put recent speculation to rest during N7 Day celebrations. Following months of uncertainty about the franchise’s future, the official statement brought relief to fans worldwide.

Development Continues Full Steam Ahead

Gamble confirmed that the next Mass Effect game is actively in development, with EA and BioWare remaining committed to expanding the universe. Despite a turbulent few years for the studio, the team is now fully focused on the Mass Effect project.“We have a lot of universe to cover, lots of features to build, and lots of romances to figure out,” Gamble stated, highlighting the progress being made on the project.

TV Series to Tell a New Story

The Mass Effect series being developed in partnership with Amazon remains on track. As the writers’ room continues its work, the show’s place within the Mass Effect universe has been clarified.The series will be set after the original trilogy and will tell an entirely new story. Gamble emphasized that Commander Shepard’s story won’t be retold, noting, “That’s YOUR story, isn’t it?” – a nod to preserving fans’ personal experiences with the franchise.

Special Content for Fans

As part of N7 Day celebrations, new merchandise and free Mass Effect-themed content appeared across various games. Crossover items were made available to players in titles like Skate and Apex Legends.

The Outer Worlds 2 Review

EdgeTypE — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 11:01:59 GMT

The Outer Worlds 2 The Outer Worlds 2 review The Outer Worlds 2 score

The Outer Worlds 2 Review

EdgeTypE

• November 7, 2025

This might be the hardest review I’ve ever had to write. I only started to enjoy the game towards the very end, and I’m still not sure if it was genuine or just a case of Stockholm syndrome.

Gaming-DB

The Outer Worlds 2

If you love Obsidian games, you'll love this. If you don't, you won't.

pros

cons

Excellent weapon designs

Diverse and versatile gameplay options

The Flaw system

Gameplay feels incredibly clunky

Would have felt dated even 10 years ago

Story is a slow burn

Some aspects are highly repetitive

Let’s hop in a time machine. The year is 2015. If we released this game then, no one would have said, “Wow, this must be from the future.” In fact, it would have been criticized for being behind the standards of its time. Let’s go back even further. 2005. Even then, it would have felt archaic. The years go by, but Obsidian’s commitment to making antique-feeling games remains unshaken. The Outer Worlds 2 proudly carries this torch.

Old, Ancient, and Obsolete

Obsidian is a studio with a distinct identity, one of the first names that comes to mind when you think of RPGs. Fallout New Vegas, KOTOR 2, and more. Yet, there’s virtually no difference in technical quality between those legendary titles and the games they release today. If you’re going to release a game in 2025 with gameplay this dated and clunky, you’d better be pushing the boundaries of story and RPG mechanics. I’m not saying the RPG elements are bad, but they are absolutely not enough to save a full-priced game where the act of playing feels this poor. A balance is needed. If the gameplay is this abysmal, something else has to shine. This game doesn’t. It’s a standard RPG. In a few months—heck, in a few weeks—the only thing I’ll remember about this game is what a chore it was to play.

You’ve probably gathered that I don’t have the best relationship with Obsidian RPGs. If you’re a fan, my criticisms will likely sound like empty noise. While I love RPGs, Obsidian’s particular brand has never clicked with me, and The Outer Worlds 2 has done nothing to change that. Avowed, another Obsidian title from earlier this year, was a massive disappointment for me; the only similarity between its announcement and the final product was the name. I went into The Outer Worlds 2 knowing what to expect, so my expectations were rock bottom. Yet, the game still managed to surprise me. Releasing something this primitive, this archaic, in this day and age is quite an achievement. Didn’t anyone at the studio stop and ask, “What are we even doing?”

I’m astonished by Obsidian’s stubborn refusal to evolve its formula. You’d think a studio would accidentally improve its games over time, but they seem stuck in place. To sell games like this, you need phenomenal writing, but that’s missing too. The void left by the departure of talents like Chris Avellone has never been filled. A great RPG needs a great story, and the narrative in The Outer Worlds 2 simply lacks that impact.

Welcome to the Outer Worlds

The world of The Outer Worlds can be roughly described as Fallout in space. You land on various planets, each with small settlements that barely qualify as towns. You land, and you live out your own experience… or so they say.

For me, the worlds and characters in Obsidian games feel incredibly artificial. Game development is an act of illusion; you have to make the player believe in the world. But that magic never happens in Obsidian’s games. Everything feels fake. It’s painfully obvious that the “random” event that just happened to you was anything but.

When that’s the case, you never become invested. The characters’ problems don’t become your problems, and the world’s conflicts don’t become your conflicts. At that point, there’s no reason to play an RPG.

I was hopeful at the start. The game begins on a spaceship. Instead of taking the stairs to the lower deck, I jumped down. My companion quipped, “Well, that was faster.” It’s these small interactions that pull you into a world. Unfortunately, the game didn’t follow through on that promise.

Gameplay? More Like Game-Pain.

Let’s be blunt: this game’s core gameplay is nonexistent. I’m not sure a team of four high school students could make something this clunky. The gunplay, animations, impact feedback—everything about the moment-to-moment action is just plain bad.

There’s a wide variety of weapons, and I genuinely love their visual designs. However, without exception, they all feel terrible to use. They have different attack types, but the clunkiness persists. I ended up using melee weapons for most of my playthrough, simply because they were slightly more satisfying. I can’t say they’re good, but I’d take them over the firearms any day.

You can upgrade your weapons with mods, but I didn’t bother much with the system. Back to the gunplay, the bullets feel like they’re from Counter-Strike 2—you never know where they’re going. It’s hard to control and even harder to tell if you’ve hit your target. It’s only a few steps above Fallout New Vegas’s gunplay, which is not a compliment.

Stealth is as basic as it gets, offering little more than distracting enemies and performing takedowns from behind. You can unlock a few extra perks, but they’re mostly passive buffs like quieter footsteps or faster crouch-walking. I will say, however, that the level design often provides a stealthy option. If you explore a bit, you can usually find a vent or alternate route to bypass enemies.

At times, the map design is an absolute mess. Finding your way can become a genuine ordeal, possessing the same cryptic nature as games from decades past. As I’ve said, the whole game feels dated, as if Obsidian made it 15 years ago and just remembered to release it. It’s like id Software re-releasing the original Doom today without any changes. They’d be crucified, and rightfully so. Yet, strangely, the gaming press seems to give Obsidian a pass. I suspect this is partly because many critics are older and grew up with these kinds of games. As for the players? The sentiment seems generally positive, but almost no one has played it. While the first game came to Steam a year after its Epic Games Store exclusivity, this sequel launched directly on Steam but failed to surpass the original’s player count. Obsidian’s core audience seems to like it. If you’ve enjoyed their previous games, you’ll most likely enjoy this one too.

Now, for Obsidian’s trademark: the RPG elements. For me, an RPG is more than just character builds; it’s about the story and your impact on it. The Outer Worlds 2’s story failed to grab me at first. It got a little interesting later on, but it never really landed. But before we get to the story, let’s talk mechanics.

From character skills to the Flaw system, I did enjoy the RPG mechanics. At the start, you create a background for your character. If you pick more background traits, the game asks you to choose a flaw to balance it. These flaws can sometimes work to your advantage. For instance, I was trying to enter a refugee camp and had a “Sickly” flaw. I told the guards I was sick, and they let me in without any questions. You can also acquire flaws dynamically through gameplay. For example, I “borrowed” a lot of items, and the game offered me the “Kleptomaniac” flaw. When the game detects a pattern, a notification pops up, and you can choose to accept the flaw, permanently gaining its pros and cons.

A word of warning if you play: be careful which flaws you accept. Some can make the game significantly harder. The game even advises you to reject them on your first playthrough. If I had accepted Kleptomaniac, I would have automatically stolen items, ruining my reputation in settlements. Early on, I was playing stealthily, which meant I was crouching constantly. The game identified a “Bad Knees” flaw. Accepting it would have made me faster while crouched, but my aching knees would have made noise, undermining my stealth build. There are many flaws like this, and I think the system is excellent. It’s a dynamic way to shape your character through actions rather than just menus.

The Story: A Whole Lot of Nothing

The Outer Worlds 2’s story is not directly connected to the first game. It’s set in the same universe, but you don’t need to have played the original. You start as an agent for an organization called the Earth Directorate, tasked with investigating a universal threat. On your very first mission in the Arcadia system, you’re betrayed and lose your team. After a 10-year cryogenic sleep, you set out to uncover the betrayal and save the universe.

The story structure is one giant cliché. You have a single goal: save the universe. But the narrative’s formula consists of constantly throwing roadblocks in your way. You need to get somewhere, but someone is blocking the path. “Do these two quests for me, and I’ll let you pass,” they say. A huge portion of the game is made up of these gatekeeper fetch quests. I swear, if I have to do two more tasks for a guard just to open a door in an RPG, I’m going to be sick. It’s a tired trope, and it’s everywhere in this game.

Setting aside the main story, a game like this should shine in its side quests. While there were a few interesting ones, they weren’t enough to save the experience. In one mission, you mediate between striking factory workers and the owner. You try to find a middle ground, advocating for workers putting in 20-hour shifts while ensuring the company can accept the terms.

I do appreciate Obsidian’s sense of humor. The witty remarks in serious moments, the jabs at the entire gaming industry—especially The Outer Worlds 2’s announcement trailer—are great. But I’m not going to endure dozens of hours of this gameplay just for a few clever lines of dialogue.

The Game Itself Is a Flaw

The moment you touch water, you die instantly. Okay, I’m not asking for full swimming mechanics, but this isn’t the way to do it. At least let us drown after a few seconds like in Helldivers 2. Here, you accidentally touch a puddle, and poof, you’re dead.

I just saw a YouTube video where someone enters the water and doesn't die until they start drowning. It seems this varies. Some bodies of water kill you instantly, while in others you have some mobility.

In general, you die in absurd ways throughout the game. You jump from a place that isn’t even that high, and poof, dead. Yet I’ve survived jumps from the same height elsewhere.

A large part of the gameplay is just running across empty maps to your next objective. Thankfully, stamina is unlimited and the sprint speed is decent. I just sprinted and jumped everywhere; otherwise, it would have been unbearable.

The third-person mode feels like it was included just to check a box. It’s awful. I may have never seen a worse TPS mode. I strongly recommend playing in first-person. The camera angle, the animations, the aiming system—it’s all terrible. It feels like they remembered to add it at the last minute.

The visual quality isn’t impressive either. I’m not a fan of the art style Obsidian uses for this series. In some areas, it looks like random colors were thrown at a canvas, making it a real eyesore. Of course, that’s a matter of taste. But even so, the system requirements are too high for these graphics. I played on a laptop with an AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS and an RTX 4060. On max settings with DLSS and Frame Generation, it ran fine initially. However, I encountered significant optimization issues in the later stages of the game, where it simply wasn’t utilizing my system’s resources properly.

The music was largely unremarkable, though I did enjoy the tracks during the final mission.

On a positive note, the game does offer multiple ways to accomplish tasks, allowing for different interactions based on your character skills.

The main menu is a nice touch. The “Moon Man” character comments on your actions in the game. For example, I started on the easiest difficulty, and he said, “Our writers appreciate you choosing story mode to prioritize dialogue over action.” His commentary changes based on where you last left off.

To Play, or Not to Play?

If I had paid full price for this game, I probably would have cried. I played it during the last days of my Game Pass subscription. It took me 20 hours to finish, but you could probably rush through the main story in about 10-11 hours. Considering this is a full-priced title, neither the content nor the quality justifies the cost. If you’re a fan of old-school RPGs, its nostalgic quality might appeal to you. But even then, I’d strongly recommend waiting for a deep sale.

When a 10-year-old Bethesda game is technically superior to your new release, it’s time to take a long, hard look in the mirror.

Gaming-DB

The Outer Worlds 2

If you love Obsidian games, you'll love this. If you don't, you won't.

pros

cons

Excellent weapon designs

Diverse and versatile gameplay options

The Flaw system

Gameplay feels incredibly clunky

Would have felt dated even 10 years ago

Story is a slow burn

Some aspects are highly repetitive

Grand Theft Auto VI Delayed, New Release Date Confirmed for Late 2026

G-Man — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 21:37:08 GMT

GTA 6 GTA VI Grand Theft Auto 6

Grand Theft Auto VI Delayed, New Release Date Confirmed for Late 2026

G-Man

• November 6, 2025

It’s Official: Grand Theft Auto VI Has Been Delayed

Rockstar Games has officially confirmed that the release of the monumentally anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI has been pushed back. Previously expected to launch on May 26, 2026, the game’s new global release date is now set for Thursday, November 19, 2026.

Rockstar Cites Need for More Polish

In an official statement, Rockstar Games attributed the delay to their commitment to quality, stating that the development team requires the extra time to deliver a finished product that meets their high standards. The additional months, they explained, are necessary to apply the final “level of polish you have come to expect and deserve.”

The studio’s message to fans read:

We are sorry for adding additional time to what we realize has been a long wait, but these extra months will allow us to finish the game with the level of polish you have come to expect and deserve. We want to thank you again for your patience and support.

Rockstar concluded by reiterating their excitement for players to finally experience the sprawling state of Leonida and the return to a modern-day Vice City.

The Key Takeaways:

Previous Release Date: May 26, 2026
New Release Date: November 19, 2026
Reason for Delay: To enhance game quality and apply final polish.

Fans eager to return to the streets of Vice City will now have to hold on for about six more months.

The Bigger Picture: Delay Announced During Take-Two’s Financial Report

The timing of this announcement is significant, as it coincided with the release of the Q2 2026 fiscal report from Rockstar’s parent company, Take-Two Interactive. Despite the delay, the company’s financial outlook remains overwhelmingly positive.

Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick addressed the schedule change while discussing the company’s strong financial performance, expressing full confidence in Rockstar’s decision:

Rockstar Games will now release Grand Theft Auto VI on November 19, 2026, and we remain both excited and confident they will deliver an unrivalled blockbuster entertainment experience. With the most robust pipeline in our Company’s history, we expect to achieve record levels of Net Bookings in Fiscal 2027, which will establish a new baseline for our business and set us on a path of enhanced profitability.

Zelnick’s comments suggest the delay is a strategic move to ensure a flawless launch and maximize the game’s financial impact in the 2027 fiscal year. Given that GTA VI will be the company’s biggest release, it’s clear they are taking every possible measure to ensure it meets the colossal expectations. However, it’s worth remembering that the game is slated for a console-only release at launch, with no word yet on a PC version.

Battlefield REDSEC Review

EdgeTypE, G-Man — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 08:01:59 GMT

Battlefield REDSEC Battlefield REDSEC review Battlefield Redsec review score

Battlefield REDSEC Review

EdgeTypE, G-Man

• November 4, 2025

For years, rumors have swirled that EA was preparing a free-to-play battle royale to rival Call of Duty’s immensely successful Warzone. After the lukewarm reception of Battlefield V’s Firestorm mode, expectations were mixed. But now, alongside Battlefield 6, EA seems determined to finally field a true competitor.

Gaming-DB

Battlefield Redsec

Battlefield has its own Warzone, and it's *almost* there.

pros

cons

Good balance of realism and gameplay

Great optimization

Server issues

Game-breaking bugs

Battle Royale mode is a Warzone clone

If, like me, you enjoyed the Battlefield 6 open beta but weren’t ready to drop the cash for the full game, Battlefield Redsec might seem like the perfect alternative. But does it actually deliver that core Battlefield experience? Let’s dive in.

First, let’s set expectations. This game is built on two modes. The first is a classic battle royale, using the weapon and movement mechanics of Battlefield 6. Aside from a slightly slower pace, it’s nearly identical to Call of Duty: Warzone, right down to some of the animations. The only significant differentiator is the presence of vehicles like tanks and helicopters on the map.

Who Is This Game For?

Full disclosure: I’m not a battle royale aficionado. While I sank countless hours into the original PUBG release, I’ve barely touched a BR game in the last five or six years. I’m not someone who follows the genre closely. I’m writing this review for players like myself: Battlefield fans who are approaching the battle royale genre with caution.

If you don’t like battle royales, this game won’t convert you. At least, the battle royale mode won’t. There’s another mode I’ll get to shortly. If you’re hoping for the classic Battlefield sandbox experience, you’ll be disappointed. The core gameplay of battle royale and traditional Battlefield are worlds apart, and this game doesn’t manage to bridge that gap. The entire time, I felt like I was playing a slower version of Warzone, just with tanks. Personally, if my friends weren’t booting up the BR mode, I’d never touch it again. The loop just isn’t for me: drop in, run from place to place looting, and just when you’re finally geared up, you get ambushed or sniped by a bullet that seems to have traveled across continents. The long preparation for a single, often brief, firefight is just tedious.

More Than Just a Battle Royale

Now for the second mode: Gauntlet. This mode was barely marketed; EA almost seemed to toss it out as an afterthought. But personally, I love it. Gauntlet doesn’t quite deliver the epic, large-scale warfare of classic Battlefield, but it gives you a taste of that flavor. It feels a bit like The Lab from Minecraft or the chaotic fun of The Finals. A match starts with eight teams. You play through a series of mini-rounds, each lasting six minutes. Two teams are eliminated each round until only the final two remain to battle for the win.

The modes are genuinely fun. The chaos that erupts when multiple teams are chasing a single objective is fantastic. I love the strategic depth that emerges when two teams are fighting over a point, only for a third team to sweep in from behind and clean house. The variety of modes is decent for a launch, but it will definitely need new additions over time.

Objectives range from classic area control to more creative tasks, like painting a hexagonal grid map to claim territory. Another has you trying to plant and detonate a bomb while fending off multiple teams trying to defuse it.

Technical Quality

In an era where nearly every PC game pushes upscaling technologies, I was genuinely surprised to find them disabled by default in Battlefield. I’m playing on an i5 10400 + RTX 2060 combo, which just meets the minimum requirements, and I’m not experiencing any performance issues. My PC runs on an ancient, dying hard drive that causes most games to hang on loading screens, yet Battlefield loads without a hitch. It’s refreshing to see a game launch with solid client-side performance.

However, while the optimization is great, the game is plagued by technical problems on the server side. I’m talking crashes, game-breaking bugs, and severe lag. Just yesterday, my squad was playing Gauntlet in an area capture mode. We were holding the point, but the game simply wasn’t awarding us score. It was completely bugged. In another BR match, the game failed to register that we had deployed our parachutes, causing our audio to cut out completely. Crashes are a near-daily occurrence. This constant instability is a massive fun-killer. You gather your friends, you’re deep into a match, nearing the final showdown, and—bam—a server issue boots you out. The frequency of these game-breaking bugs is incredibly frustrating.

Core Gameplay

If you’ve played any Call of Duty since the Modern Warfare remake, the gunplay here won’t impress you. It’s not bad, but it’s a far cry from CoD’s crispness. It’s better than Battlefield 2042’s, but not as satisfying as Battlefield 1’s. The damage modeling also feels off. Damage values, especially for headshots, feel far too low. Enemies are absolute bullet sponges. Having to land 5-6 shots to down an opponent is already tedious, but Redsec also adds armor plates for everyone, turning firefights into a slog against walking meat shields. This armor mechanic is lifted directly from Warzone; in fact, the entire BR mode feels like Warzone playing at 0.75x speed.

The overall pacing, however, hits a nice sweet spot. Long-time series fans might find it a bit fast, while CoD players might find it slow, but it feels well-balanced. Any faster, and it would lose that touch of Battlefield’s signature realism. We’ll likely cover this in more detail in our upcoming Battlefield 6 review.

One area where Redsec stands out from other BRs is its destructible environments. Most buildings on the map can be leveled, adding a fantastic dynamic to gameplay. It’s not as consistently impactful as in The Finals, but when it happens, it’s spectacular. Imagine taking cover in a building while fleeing an enemy squad, only for them to launch a rocket, collapsing the structure around you and forcing a desperate escape. Moments like these keep the game feeling alive.

The class-based battle royale concept is interesting, but its execution here is questionable. The classic Battlefield classes are present, but their impact feels minimal. Outside of the Engineer, who can open special crates and repair vehicles, the other classes feel largely redundant. Even the Medic doesn’t stand out, as characters from any class can carry a defibrillator. It feels like the developers were undecided on whether to keep classes, ultimately leaving them in as a half-baked nod to the series’ roots without properly integrating them.

I have one more major gripe: the weapon unlock grind is brutal. EA clearly designed Battlefield 6 as a long-term service game, meaning players are expected to unlock weapons gradually. While this makes sense from a business perspective, it creates a frustrating initial experience. You’re stuck with a base weapon that kicks like a mule, while opponents who have put in the time (or own Battlefield 6) are running around like SEAL Team Six with fully kitted-out death machines. Your progression from the mainline Battlefield 6 carries over directly to Redsec, which creates an immediate and significant imbalance for new players.

This problem extends to the battle royale mode as well. The map contains small objectives that reward you with a “custom weapon drop,” allowing you to call in your personalized loadouts from Battlefield 6. This system heavily favors long-term players, turning the game into a “rich get richer” scenario.

The Verdict: Is It Worth Your Time?

If you’re looking for a fun, free-to-play shooter to jump into with friends, Redsec is definitely worth a look. However, if you’re a fan of fast-paced shooters like Apex Legends or Call of Duty, you should probably steer clear. The slower pace will likely bore you quickly.

Think of it as a Call of Duty built for fans of tactical shooters like Ready or Not or Insurgency. But make no mistake—this isn’t Battlefield.

Gaming-DB

Battlefield Redsec

Battlefield has its own Warzone, and it's *almost* there.

pros

cons

Good balance of realism and gameplay

Great optimization

Server issues

Game-breaking bugs

Battle Royale mode is a Warzone clone

Battlefield's Free-to-Play REDSEC Experience Has Launched!

G-Man — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 15:17:02 GMT

Battlefield REDSEC REDSEC free to play battlefield 6

Battlefield's Free-to-Play REDSEC Experience Has Launched!

G-Man

• October 28, 2025

Battlefield’s Free-to-Play Experience, REDSEC, Has Launched: Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Electronic Arts and DICE have officially launched Battlefield REDSEC, a new, free-to-play experience designed to expand the Battlefield universe. Built on the series’ core DNA, this new title is packed with content for veterans and newcomers alike. Let’s be clear: this appears to be EA’s direct answer to the massive success of Call of Duty’s Warzone. While REDSEC is available as an update for existing owners of the mainline game, it’s also being offered as a completely separate, standalone download for all players.

A Massive New Playground: Fort Lyndon & Battle Royale

REDSEC drops players into Fort Lyndon, a massive, clandestine military facility hidden away in Southern California next to pristine beaches and quiet suburbs. This sprawling map offers a huge variety of combat zones, from modern architectural compounds and abandoned facilities to luxurious mansions and sprawling golf courses.

The main event is a brand-new Battle Royale mode, infused with the signature features that only Battlefield can deliver. Here’s what sets it apart:

Tactical Destruction: Whether you’re blowing a new path through a wall or leveling an entire building to expose enemy positions, destruction is in your hands. As seen in the launch trailer, walls crumble, and even massive skyscrapers can be brought down entirely, dynamically changing the battlefield and adding a deep layer of strategy.
Fast-Paced Squad Play: The emphasis on squad-based combat means coordination is key. Reviving a downed teammate or making a strategic stand together will be crucial for survival.
The Deadliest Ring: The battleground is encircled by a deadly ring of fire that shrinks over time, forcing squads into intense, close-quarters engagements in the final moments of a match.

New Mode: Gauntlet

Also debuting with REDSEC is Gauntlet, a ruthless new elimination-style mode that pits squads against each other in a high-stakes competition.

Gauntlet is structured like a tournament. Squads race to complete objectives, with the lowest-scoring teams being eliminated after each round. Only the best and most efficient teams will advance to the finale to battle for the top spot. This mode promises a fiercely competitive experience that demands quick thinking and seamless teamwork.

Full Access to Portal

REDSEC also includes full, unrestricted access to Battlefield’s acclaimed Portal feature. This massive sandbox allows all players to build, share, and discover their own unique Battlefield experiences, completely free of charge.

How to Download and Play

There are a couple of ways to get into the action:

For Existing Battlefield 6 Players: You already have it. The game was included as part of the recent 1.1.1.0 update. Owners of the main game can navigate to their console’s or PC’s game management settings and will see the 8.4GB base game, along with an optional 28GB high-resolution texture pack.

For New Players: REDSEC is also a standalone free-to-play title. Simply search for Battlefield REDSEC on your platform of choice—including Steam, the EA App, the PlayStation Store, or the Microsoft Store—and download it for free.

The Halo Legend is Reborn: Halo: Campaign Evolved Announced!

G-Man — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 21:33:25 GMT

Halo: Campaign Evolved Halo: Combat Evolved Remake Halo Remake

The Halo Legend is Reborn: Halo: Campaign Evolved Announced!

G-Man

• October 24, 2025

Halo: Campaign Evolved Announced

Halo: Combat Evolved, a cornerstone of the FPS genre, is returning with a complete overhaul of its visuals and content. Halo Studios has announced Halo: Campaign Evolved, a ground-up remake of the legendary campaign, rebuilt entirely in Unreal Engine 5. Scheduled for a 2026 release, the game is set to launch on Xbox Series X|S and PC, and in a first for the franchise, it will also be available on PlayStation 5.

This announcement puts an end to long-standing rumors and confirms that the project is more than just a simple remake; it’s a tribute to the series’ legacy. The development team aims to create the perfect entry point for newcomers while offering a fresh, yet familiar, experience for the 25-year-strong fanbase.

A Visual and Gameplay Overhaul with Unreal Engine 5

The initial gameplay and reveal trailers showcase the project’s ambition. Powered by Unreal Engine 5, the game boasts photorealistic visuals, completely revamped cutscenes, and modernized animations.

The footage features the iconic landing on “The Silent Cartographer” mission, reimagined with modern graphics. While the original atmosphere is preserved, the level of detail in water effects, lighting, foliage, and character models appears to push beyond current-gen standards. The interior designs of Forerunner structures and the tense combat encounters with the Flood look far more atmospheric and terrifying, thanks to Unreal Engine 5’s dynamic lighting technology, Lumen.

The development team has stated they are using the original game’s core code and systems as a foundation to preserve the classic “Halo feel,” while building the entire visual layer with UE5. This hybrid approach aims to maintain the game’s nostalgic soul while delivering a visually stunning experience for a new generation.

What’s New in Campaign Evolved?

Halo: Campaign Evolved isn’t just a visual upgrade; it introduces significant new content and gameplay enhancements. Here are the key features announced so far:

Four-Player Co-op and Cross-Platform Support: For the first time in its history, the original campaign will support up to four players in online co-op. This feature will include full cross-play and cross-progression across Xbox, PC, and PlayStation 5. The classic two-player local split-screen co-op will also be available on consoles.
New Missions: Three brand-new bonus missions set before the events of the original campaign have been added, featuring Master Chief and Sgt. Johnson. These missions will take players to unseen environments and introduce new enemy types.
Expanded Arsenal and Vehicles: Players will now be able to wield iconic weapons from later Halo titles, such as the Energy Sword, Battle Rifle, and Needle Rifle, within the campaign. Additionally, the ability to hijack Covenant vehicles, including piloting the Wraith tank for the first time, has been integrated.
Enhanced Gameplay Mechanics: The modern sprint mechanic has been added, but for purists who prefer the classic experience, it can be disabled in the settings.
More Skulls: The number of “Skulls”—gameplay modifiers that offer unique challenges and fun alterations—will be the largest ever featured in a Halo campaign.
Reworked Levels: Certain levels, including the notoriously difficult “The Library,” have been redesigned to improve pacing and level design based on modern player expectations. New dialogue has been added for 343 Guilty Spark to improve navigation and enhance storytelling.
Sound and Music: The original voice cast has reunited to re-record all dialogue, and the iconic musical score has been remastered to modern standards.

From the Developers’ Perspective: “Halo for Everyone”

The development team describes the project with the slogan “Halo for everyone.” They emphasize that their goal is not to replace the original game but to make it more accessible and immersive for a new generation. They specifically mentioned that levels like “The Library” have been reworked with improved player guidance and more balanced enemy encounters to address long-standing fan feedback.

With its release on PlayStation, a new generation of players will have the chance to experience the beginning of the saga. For veteran fans on Xbox and PC, 2026 will mark the rebirth of a legend. The game will also be available on Game Pass from day one.

Battlefield 6 Season 1 Kicks Off With Massive Update 1.1.1.0: Full Patch Notes

G-Man — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 16:18:45 GMT

Battlefield 6 Battlefield 6 Season 1 Battlefield 6 update

Battlefield 6 Season 1 Kicks Off With Massive Update 1.1.1.0: Full Patch Notes

G-Man

• October 24, 2025

Battlefield 6 Gets a Massive Update as Season 1 Kicks Off!

DICE has just revealed the full details for Update 1.1.1.0, heralding the start of Battlefield 6’s highly anticipated Season 1. Players can expect sweeping changes, balance adjustments, and a host of improvements.

The developer announced that the major update, set to launch the next phase of the game, will be released on Tuesday, October 28. The rollout will happen in two stages:

09:00 UTC: Update 1.1.1.0 will go live on all platforms. This download includes all the technical and gameplay changes detailed below.
15:00 UTC: All Season 1 content, including the Battle Pass and other seasonal features, will become available for all players who have installed the update.

Between these times, players can update their game and continue playing as normal, but new seasonal content and progression will only unlock at 15:00 UTC.

This update focuses on improving performance, fixing bugs, and smoothing out the overall game experience based on community feedback.

Update Highlights

Here are the most significant changes coming with the new update:

Movement and Animations: Core movement mechanics like landings, stance transitions, and vaulting have been made much more fluid. “Bouncing” issues that occurred when landing or spawning have been reduced.
Weapon Balance: Weapon dispersion has been rebalanced. This change aims to provide an accuracy profile that better matches each weapon’s intended role and range. Issues like inconsistent accuracy after sprinting have been addressed.
Visuals and Lighting: Significant improvements have been made to lighting transitions between indoor and outdoor areas, interior lighting, and the persistence of smoke and fog effects, all aiming for a clearer and more atmospheric experience.
Audio Engine: The audio has been completely overhauled, from the sound of bullets flying by to explosion and destruction effects. Vehicle and weapon audio mixes have been refined, and haptic feedback has been retuned for various interactions.
UI & HUD: End-of-round screen bugs have been fixed, new indicators for overtime have been added, and new markers for unlocked weapons and attachments have been introduced.

Detailed Changelog

Gameplay and Soldier Fixes

Numerous bugs affecting player movement and interactions have been fixed and improved.

Soldier hitboxes, especially for the head and upper body, have been adjusted to better align with the visual models.
Core movement animations for taking cover, jumping, and climbing have been overhauled and related bugs have been fixed.
Animation bugs, such as appearing to stand up in third-person view when throwing a grenade while prone, have been corrected.
Camera jitter and unstable animations when landing have been significantly reduced.
Issues with camera and weapon sway when entering or exiting vehicles have been resolved.
A parachute customization option has been added for soldiers.
Inconsistencies with melee takedowns have been addressed, especially those occurring near walls.

Vehicles & Gadgets

Missing haptic feedback when switching between tank weapons has been added.
AT grenades will now create a small crater instead of a medium one.
Buildings will now require more hits from a Sledgehammer to be destroyed.
Bugs with the animations and functionality of gadgets like the Defibrillator and Supply Pouch have been fixed.

Weapons

Key Change: Weapon dispersion has been rebalanced across the board. Lower-damage weapons will now see a slightly higher increase in dispersion during sustained fire, while higher-damage weapons will experience slightly less. This will help each weapon perform more consistently within its intended role.
Using Sniper Rifles with any class other than Recon will no longer increase weapon spread. Instead, weapon sway will now begin during the zoom transition, preserving Recon’s precision advantage.
Misalignment and visual bugs with weapon sights and attachments have been fixed.
Reticle settling for automatic weapons has been improved to make burst-firing more effective.

Maps & Modes

The persistence of smoke and fog effects after destruction has been reduced on all maps to prevent them from obscuring vision for too long.
Lighting transitions between indoor and outdoor areas have been improved to fix issues with sudden brightness or darkness.
Numerous bugs on Mirak Valley, Siege of Cairo, Liberation Peak, New Sobek City, and Manhattan Bridge that caused players to get stuck, go out of bounds, or interfered with objectives have been fixed.
Visible bomb models have been added to armed M-COMs in Rush mode.

UI, Audio, and Other Improvements

New markers have been added in the menus for newly unlocked weapons, attachments, and gadgets.
Preview videos demonstrating how gadgets work have been added.
Missing footstep sounds when running with the knife equipped have been fixed.
An issue where directional callouts (e.g., “enemy north”) would report the wrong direction has been corrected.
Radio chatter can now be heard through controller speakers.
Audio bugs and sync issues that occurred when deploying bipods, reloading, or using the defibrillator have been resolved.
Various bugs in the Portal server browser and single-player missions have also been fixed in this update.

Surprise Helldivers 2 Patch 4.1.0 Drops with Massive Balance Overhaul

G-Man — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 10:11:21 GMT

Helldivers 2 Helldivers 2 update Helldivers 2 patch notes

Surprise Helldivers 2 Patch 4.1.0 Drops with Massive Balance Overhaul

G-Man

• October 23, 2025

Surprise Helldivers 2 Balance Patch Drops: All Changes in Patch 4.1.0 Detailed

Just when we thought we’d have to wait, Arrowhead Game Studios pulled a fast one on the community by releasing Patch 4.1.0 unexpectedly. “We pushed hard yesterday and I’m happy to announce we have released the patch!” the developers stated.

This update focuses on making the game a better experience, addressing community feedback with over 200 bug fixes, significant balance updates, and several quality-of-life improvements.

Here’s a full breakdown of all the changes:

General Balancing Changes

This update reshapes the game’s overall balance, from primary weapons to Stratagems.

Light vs. Medium Armor Penetration: Light and medium penetration weapons now have more distinct advantages. Light-pen weapons will now deal a higher percentage of their total damage against durable parts, making them a more viable choice compared to their medium-pen counterparts.
SMGs and Pistols: These weapons have been re-tuned to emphasize their close-quarters identity. They now feature higher close-range damage but suffer from increased damage falloff, making them deadlier up close but less effective at a distance.
Melee and Throwables: Each melee weapon and throwable has been improved to feel more impactful and serve a unique function on the battlefield.

Weapon Balance Changes

Nearly every weapon in the arsenal has received an adjustment. Here are the highlights:

Primary Weapons

SG-8P Punisher Plasma: Projectile damage decreased from 100 to 0, but explosion damage increased from 150 to 225. (Developers noted that since the projectile detonates on proximity, its direct damage was never applied anyway, so they boosted the explosion damage instead.)
SG-8S Slugger: Damage increased from 280 to 330, and durable damage increased from 75 to 90.
AR-23 Liberator & AR-23A Liberator Carbine: Damage increased from 80 to 90, durable damage from 15 to 22.
AR-23P Liberator Penetrator: Damage increased from 60 to 65.
AR-23C Liberator Concussive: Damage increased from 65 to 75, durable damage from 30 to 35.
AR-61 Tenderizer: Durable damage increased from 22 to 30.
AR-32 Pacifier: Damage increased from 50 to 55, stun value per projectile increased from 1.5 to 2.
SMG-37 Defender: Damage increased from 80 to 100, durable damage from 8 to 18. Drag increased.
MP-98 Knight: Damage increased from 70 to 90, durable damage from 7 to 18. Drag increased.
SMG-32 Reprimand: Damage increased from 125 to 135. Drag increased.
SMG-72 Pummeler: Damage increased from 70 to 85, durable damage from 7 to 18, stun value from 1.5 to 2. Drag increased.
LAS-16 Sickle: Damage increased from 55 to 60, durable damage from 5 to 6.
MA5C Assault Rifle: Damage increased from 80 to 90.
M7S SMG: Damage increased from 70 to 80, durable damage from 7 to 16. Drag increased.
StA-11 SMG: Damage increased from 70 to 90, durable damage from 7 to 18. Drag increased.
PLAS-39 Accelerator Rifle: Extra spare magazines increased from 8 to 12, ergonomics from 40 to 60.

Sidearms and Melee Weapons

CQC-2 Saber: Damage increased from 110 to 125, durable damage from 55 to 65.
CQC-5 Combat Hatchet: Damage increased from 110 to 160, durable damage from 55 to 80, but attack speed has been slightly reduced.
CQC-42 Machete: Damage increased from 170 to 200, durable damage from 80 to 100.
P-2 Peacemaker: Damage increased from 85 to 95, durable damage from 25 to 30. Drag increased.
P-19 Redeemer: Damage increased from 60 to 70, durable damage from 5 to 12. Drag increased.
P-113 Verdict: Damage increased from 125 to 135. Drag increased.
P-92 Warrant: Drag decreased to 0, and gravity multiplier has been reduced.

Throwables and Stratagems

TED-63 Dynamite: Damage increased from 700 to 1000, armor penetration increased from Medium to Heavy. It can now close Bug Holes. Uses decreased from 4 to 3.
G-7 Pineapple: Shrapnel count from the main explosion increased from 7 to 18, and shrapnel damage increased from 70 to 100. Lifetime on shrapnel has been removed.
G-50 Seeker: Now prioritizes flying enemies. Marked targets are its highest priority. Damage increased from 400 to 500.
PLAS-45 Epoch: Time until explosion increased from 3 to 3.25 seconds. Standard projectile explosion damage increased from 400 to 500, and the overcharged projectile’s demolition strength is now 30, allowing it to close Bug Holes.
APW-1 Anti-Materiel Rifle: Durable damage increased from 180 to 225, and it now starts with more magazines.
AC-8 Autocannon: Damage increased from 260 to 325.
MS-11 Solo Silo: Health increased from 800 to 1500, and enemies will no longer attack it.
Orbital Railcannon Strike: Cooldown decreased from 210 to 180 seconds.
EXO-45 Patriot Exosuit: Missile armor penetration at poor angles has been improved. The rotary gun’s ammo capacity has been increased from 1000 to 1350.

Enemy Changes

Significant updates have been made across all three enemy factions.

Illuminates

Fleshmob: Their faces are now weak spots, taking extra damage to their main health pool.
Elevated Overseer: Main health has been reduced, but head health increased. However, its head armor has been lowered from 3 to 2, making it vulnerable to light armor-penetrating weapons.
Leviathan: Is now equipped with beam-based weaponry and will no longer appear in missions outside of cities.

Terminids

Rupture Warrior: Slower when moving underground and must surface more often. It can no longer destroy deployable turrets while burrowed.
Dragon Roach: Spawn rate has been decreased across all difficulty levels. Destroying its wings will now result in an instant kill.

Automatons

Base Alarming: Automaton troopers in bases will now require a clearer line of sight before calling in reinforcements, making stealth approaches more viable.
War Strider: Fires fewer grenades per salvo and attacks less frequently. Weak spots have been added to its “eyes” and the vents on its back.

These extensive changes are set to significantly shake up the meta. Let us know what you think of the new balance in the comments below

Counter-Strike 2 New Update: Retake Mode Officially Arrives

MikeIV — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 07:45:17 GMT

cs2 update counter strike 2 update cs2 retake mode

Counter-Strike 2 New Update: Retake Mode Officially Arrives

MikeIV

• October 23, 2025

CS2 Receives New Update with Official Retake Mode

Valve released a comprehensive update for the popular shooter Counter-Strike 2. With this update, the long-awaited Retake mode was added to official matchmaking servers. Additionally, trade-up contracts were expanded to allow trading rare red (Covert) items for knives and gloves. These changes also impacted the game’s economy; many Covert items’ prices rose to several times their original value.

Retake Mode: Fast-Paced Action Returns

The update’s most notable feature is Retake mode. This classic mode offers a fast-paced experience in 4v3 post-plant scenarios. Each round, you select your loadout card, check the map to coordinate with your team, and use your limited resources wisely to defuse (or defend) the bomb. The mode supports Defusal Group Alpha and Defusal Group Delta maps.Additionally, Molotov and smoke interaction logic was fixed for situations where multiple smokes are active. This will provide smoother gameplay, especially during intense firefights.

Map Updates and Optimizations

Maps also received Valve’s attention. Maps updated with the latest versions from Steam Community Workshop include:

Golden, Palacio, and Rooftop: Latest versions loaded as specified in workshop notes, bringing visual and gameplay improvements.
Inferno: Visibility adjusted at top of Quad and under Balcony. Performance increased through various optimizations.

Revolution in Trade-Up Contracts: Knives and Gloves Added

Trade-up contracts were one of the game’s most popular features and have now become even more powerful. With 5 Covert quality items, the following trades can be made:

5 StatTrak™ Covert items → One StatTrak™ knife (from the collection of one of the items provided).
5 regular Covert items → One regular knife or gloves (from the collection of one of the items provided).This expansion increased the value of rare items. Many Covert items in the market rose to several times their previous prices.

Other Improvements: A More Stable Experience

The update also brings several optimizations.

Performance optimizations in the main menu and item inspect UI.
Fixed inventory icons rendering in blurry state or not rendering.
Prevented server-side sound events from triggering multiple times.
Overall stability improvements.Valve doing things again.

$200+ Worth of Unreal Engine Assets Free for Limited Time

Nomad — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 18:35:42 GMT

unreal engine free fab free assets free 3d models

$200+ Worth of Unreal Engine Assets Free for Limited Time

Nomad

• October 22, 2025

$200+ Worth of Unreal Engine Assets Free for Limited Time

Epic Games’ asset marketplace Fab has released a new batch of free assets. These assets can be claimed for free until November 4, 2025.

Available Free Assets

Construction PROPS - Brasileirisses

A semi-modular asset collection designed for creating construction and building sites. The pack enables developers to create various construction scenes in urban environments.

Key Features:

120 semi-modular assets
5 ready-to-use construction site examples
3 miscellaneous wall components
Decal set for general construction site use
Material variation options for selected assets
Playable demo map (11GB)

2 in 1 Nanite Environment Bundle 1 - Dazzling Divine

This bundle includes two separate environment packs designed for cinematics and high-end games.

Contents:

Stunning Natural Place: High-poly Nanite trees, grass, bushes, rocks, cliffs, and distant mountains
Volcanic Environment: Detailed volcanoes, cliffs, terrain models, and dynamic Alembic lava flows with VDB eruption effects

The pack supports Nanite and Lumen (Unreal Engine 5.1+). VDB volumetric effects require Unreal Engine 5.3 or higher.

Robot 3 - SDKwarrior

A low-poly, fully rigged robot character.

Features:

Rigged for UE5
Fully modular and interchangeable
Color, dirt, and emission settings
FBX and Maya formats included
25k faces, 37k tris, 19k vertices

How to Claim

The assets can be claimed for free on the Fab platform until November 4, 2025, at 1:59 PM GMT (9:59 AM ET). Even if you don’t need them immediately, it’s recommended to claim them now for future use.

Important: Remember to select the appropriate license type (Personal or Professional) based on your needs.

Asset Links:

No Man's Sky 'Breach' Update is Live, Adding Derelict Wrecks and Spooky Expeditions

G-Man — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 13:25:41 GMT

No Mans Sky Breach update No Mans Sky update

No Man's Sky 'Breach' Update is Live, Adding Derelict Wrecks and Spooky Expeditions

G-Man

• October 22, 2025

No Man’s Sky Drops “Breach” Update, Perfect for the Spooky Season

Hello Games has just rolled out a massive new update for its ever-expanding space exploration title, No Man’s Sky. Titled Breach, this latest free content drop leans into a darker, spookier atmosphere perfect for the Halloween season. It significantly builds upon the ship-building mechanics introduced in the previous major update, Voyagers, and sends players on a perilous adventure through abandoned star systems.

The Breach update is now available for all No Man’s Sky owners on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.

The Breach Expedition

The centerpiece of the update is the Breach Expedition, which transports players to a desolate and abandoned corner of the universe. In this new expedition, set to run for approximately three weeks, Travelers will encounter the haunting remains of ill-fated corvette ships drifting through the void. Scavenging these derelicts will reward players with new and rare modules to expand their ship-building library.

Throughout the journey, you’ll uncover the fate of the mysterious Fireship Arcadia and unlock exclusive Atlas-themed modules to show your allegiance to the cosmic entity. The expedition also guides players toward the ominous purple star systems previously teased, home to planets with deep abyssal oceans, unearthly creatures, and dangerously volatile gas giants.

Spacewalking and Salvaging Wrecks

Breach introduces a thrilling new element to deep space exploration: Space Wrecks. Players can now exit their ships for a zero-g spacewalk to explore these massive, hollowed-out husks. Using your Multi-Tool’s laser, you can dismantle valuable components directly from the wrecks and repurpose them to craft your dream vessel.

This new mechanic adds a fresh layer of gameplay, promising serene yet tense moments as you float through the silent, eerie graveyards of space.

Enhanced Ship Building and a Trove of New Parts

The ship construction system from the Voyagers update gets a major upgrade in Breach. A vast number of new corvette modules can now be salvaged from derelicts, including:

New landing gear, shields, and weapon systems
Highly requested vertical and wedge-shaped modules for more complex designs
Exclusive Atlas-themed parts like the Aeron Cowling, Aeron Powershield, and Wings of Aeron.

These additions empower players to construct far more intricate and creative starships than ever before.

Other Key Additions

Alongside its main features, the Breach update delivers a host of other improvements and new content:

Ghost Starship: A mysterious new ship you may encounter in the depths of space.
Infestations: Biological threats in certain systems have become even more dangerous.
Survive Gas Giants: Test your survival skills in the hazardous atmospheres of the new gas giants.
Atlas Corvettes: Design your own corvette with unique Atlas-themed components.
New Base Parts: Decorate your home base with new Atlas-inspired pieces.
Quality of Life Improvements: The update is rounded out by crucial QoL enhancements, including a vastly improved part-snapping system, more robust collision physics, and a new option to apply a color palette to your entire ship with a single click.

The update also includes numerous bug fixes and performance optimizations across all platforms.

Helldivers 2 Update Delayed: Details of a Massive Performance Patch Revealed

G-Man — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 12:39:16 GMT

Helldivers 2 Helldivers 2 update Helldivers 2 new patch

Helldivers 2 Update Delayed: Details of a Massive Performance Patch Revealed

G-Man

• October 22, 2025

Delayed Helldivers 2 Update is Coming Packed with Performance Fixes

Arrowhead Game Studios has announced a delay for the next major update for its smash-hit co-op shooter, Helldivers 2. But fear not, this delay comes with a silver lining: the team is using the extra time to roll out a massive wave of optimizations, shifting their focus from new content to tackling the game’s nagging technical issues. Finally!

Why the Delay?

The update, originally slated for release early this week, hit a snag due to a last-minute “certification issue,” according to the studio. The development team is working hard to resolve the problem and aims to deliver the patch by the end of this week. They’ve stated that staff are prepared to work through the weekend if necessary, though there’s a small chance the issue could push the release into next week.

New Content on Hold as Optimization Takes Priority

Arrowhead reiterated their earlier promise to delay new content drops, including Warbonds, to go all-in on fixing performance problems, bugs, and balance issues. This decision has been widely praised by the community, especially following recent updates that saw the game’s PC file size balloon to over 140 GB and an increase in performance complaints.

In a move towards transparency, the developers have shared a preliminary list of optimizations included in the upcoming patch. The full patch notes will be released alongside the update.

A Glimpse at the Upcoming Optimizations

The new patch aims to boost performance across nearly every aspect of the game. The preview list reveals just how deep these technical improvements go:

VFX and Physics Optimizations:
- Status effects (burning, slowing, etc.) have been optimized.
- System load has been reduced by enabling powered ragdolls only when necessary.
- The physics engine used for damage calculations has been improved.
- Visual effects for Acid Rain during Acid Storms and the Dragonroach fire attack have been optimized.
- The general fire system has been made more efficient with particle and lighting optimizations.
AI and Environmental Optimizations:
- Automaton unit and NPC eyes have been redesigned using more efficient shaders instead of particle effects.
- Redundant code has been stripped from AI behaviors.
- Asset distribution, geometry, and setup in Hive Worlds and Terminid caves have been optimized.
- The performance of scattered assets, such as grass on various planet types, has been improved.
General Performance Improvements:
- Stuttering during the drop-in sequence for missions on Hive Worlds has been reduced.
- Audio file I/O performance has been improved.
- Snow distribution and its overall appearance on icy planets have been reworked.
- Performance has been increased by tweaking character Level of Detail (LOD) settings.
- The rendering performance of several shaders has been optimized.

Tackling the Bloated File Size

This focus on optimization could finally address the long-standing complaint about the game’s massive file size. The development team previously explained that the large file size on PC was a result of an optimization technique for users with older HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). This method, which involves duplicating data to shorten load times, resulted in unnecessary bloat for the majority of players using modern SSDs. Arrowhead has confirmed they are working on a multi-stage plan to resolve this, and patches like this one are the first step.

For many players, especially on PC, these fixes can’t come soon enough. The game’s performance issues have been a significant source of frustration, turning smooth co-op sessions into a slideshow for some. The big question now is whether this massive optimization push will be enough to bring lapsed Helldivers back to the front lines. We’ll be watching closely.

AWS Crashed, Internet Came to a Standstill

Skyline — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 08:48:33 GMT

AWS outage Amazon down what is dynamodb

AWS Crashed, Internet Came to a Standstill

Skyline

• October 20, 2025

Amazon Web Services (AWS), Amazon’s cloud computing platform, experienced a major global outage. This disruption affected not only Amazon’s own services but also many popular platforms with millions of users, including Roblox, Fortnite, Udemy, and Zoom.

At the center of the outage are data centers on the US East Coast (us-east-1). Amazon announced at 03:11 ET (10:11 Turkey time) that “error rates and latency have increased for multiple services.” The company stated that engineers are investigating the source of the problem and working on a solution.

According to information on the AWS status page, many services, particularly DynamoDB, are marked as “disrupted.” This situation has caused thousands of websites using AWS infrastructure to become temporarily inaccessible.

The Cause of the Problem

AWS’s status dashboard reported issues in the US-EAST-1 region at 3:11 ET (10:11 Turkey time). According to Amazon’s statements, the main problem stems from high error rates in the DynamoDB service. This disruption in DynamoDB is affecting other AWS services in a chain reaction.

DynamoDB is a database service that runs on Amazon’s own cloud infrastructure. It can read and write data at incredible speeds. It can process billions of requests simultaneously without setting up servers or performing maintenance. However, as seen today, when that reflex breaks down, the entire internet can stumble all at once.

Currently, official statements from Amazon have not provided clear information about when services will return to normal. However, it’s reported that the outage is having global effects and connection issues continue in many regions.

Note: The site you’re reading this news on also uses AWS but hasn’t been affected by the issues so far.

Detroit's Developer Announces New Game: A Service Game Accompanied by Disappointment

Nomad — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 17:17:15 GMT

Quantic Dream Spellcasters Chronicles Detroit Become Human

Detroit's Developer Announces New Game: A Service Game Accompanied by Disappointment

Nomad

• October 16, 2025

Major Disappointment from Quantic Dream:

Quantic Dream, known for cinematic single-player games like Detroit Become Human, has announced its new game and the result is a complete fiasco. Spellcasters Chronicles, a 3v3 online game, will be the studio’s first release since 2018. Don’t let 2018 seem recent. We’re talking about exactly 7 years ago.

Having reached over 25 million players with story-driven, distinctive titles like Heavy Rain, Beyond: Two Souls, and Detroit Become Human, Quantic Dream is now taking a completely different path. Studio head David Cage’s statement, while trying to justify the situation, actually reveals how far off course they’ve strayed.

Cage is right when he says “This new game may surprise our fans as it is very different from what we have done so far.” However, the “taking risks is part of our DNA” defense doesn’t justify completely abandoning the studio’s identity.

This new title may surprise our fans as it is very different from what we have done so far. But taking risks, challenging ourselves, and exploring new ways of playing has always been part of our DNA. Since we have no legacy in this genre, we know we have everything to prove. That’s why your support and feedback will be essential.

The Lost Game: Star Wars Eclipse

While it’s stated that Star Wars Eclipse development continues, no concrete progress has been shown for years. Instead, resources are being allocated to an online service game nobody asked for.

Spellcasters Chronicles: A Generic Online Game

The game takes place in a world controlled by wizards and offers the following features:

Gameplay: Free-to-play, 3v3 team-based third-person action-strategy game. Players summon creature armies and cast spells as wizard commanders.

Mechanics: Aerial combat, hundreds of creature types, tower defense-like structure building, and a “deck-building” system. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it? Because there are dozens of games in the market with similar features.

Community Voting: Each season, players will make decisions that affect the game’s direction. This “revolutionary” feature is already present in many live service games.

Closed Beta: Even Entry is Difficult

The game’s closed beta will launch on Steam by the end of 2025. However, the system requirements are incredibly high:

CPU: Intel Core i5-10400 or equivalent
RAM: 32 GB (yes, you read that correctly)
GPU: GeForce RTX 3070 or equivalent

The studio says this is because it’s “in development” and requirements will drop at launch, but for now, you need a small fortune in hardware to test the game.

The beta will only be available in Europe and North America. Beta rewards will carry over to the full version, but your progress will be reset.

Quantic Dream’s mastery of storytelling and cinematic experiences held a unique position in the gaming world. Now they’re trying their luck with a generic online game. Cage’s words “we have no legacy in this genre, we have everything to prove” demonstrate the severity of the situation. So why are you risking your 28-year legacy and starting from scratch in a field where you have no experience? Another company caught by the service game plague…

Battlefield 6 Shatters Records with Massive Launch

Nomad — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 16:42:29 GMT

Battlefield 6 Battlefield 6 sales figures Battlefield 6 record

Battlefield 6 Shatters Records with Massive Launch

Nomad

• October 16, 2025

Battlefield 6 Marks the Most Successful Launch in Franchise History

Battlefield 6 has achieved the biggest opening in the series’ storied history. The game shattered all-time franchise sales records by selling over 7 million copies within the first three days of its launch.

Following an open beta in August that exceeded expectations, the game’s launch weekend saw players engage in over 172 million matches. Furthermore, it accumulated more than 15 million hours watched across streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube, setting a new concurrent player record for the Battlefield franchise.

Shaped by Community Feedback

Battlefield General Manager Byron Beede extended his thanks to the players, stating: “Battlefield 6 was built with our fans. From the initial concept through to the implementation of Battlefield Labs and into the record-shattering Open Beta, we have been obsessed with player feedback.”

Vince Zampella, Executive Vice President, also expressed his gratitude to the development studios and the passionate community, teasing that more content is on the way in the coming weeks.

New Content is on the Horizon

The game offers a comprehensive experience with new multiplayer modes, a cinematic single-player campaign, and the return of the fan-favorite Portal mode. The first wave of post-launch content, Season 1: “Rogue Ops,” is set to release on October 28. This update will introduce the Blackwell Fields map, designed for all-out warfare, and a new intense 4v4 game mode.

Have you had a chance to drop into Battlefield 6 yet? Let us know your thoughts on the launch in the comments below.

Battlefield 6 Review Scores Are In!

G-Man — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 12:25:05 GMT

Battlefield 6 Battlefield 6 review scores Battlefield 6 Metacritic

Battlefield 6 Review Scores Are In!

G-Man

• October 9, 2025

Battlefield 6 Review Scores Revealed

Reviews for Electronic Arts and DICE’s new warfare game Battlefield 6 have been published. The game has received generally positive feedback from critics. The game launches tomorrow, October 10th.

Overall Review Averages

Metacritic: 83/100
OpenCritic: 84/100

Detailed Review Scores

Platform/Site	Score
Saving Content	5/5
Digitec Magazine	5/5
Generación Xbox	95/100
But Why Tho?	9.5/10
The Nerd Stash	9.5/10
Game Rant	9/10
Areajugones	9/10
PlayStation LifeStyle	9/10
ZTGD	9/10
PCGamesN	9/10
Gameblog	9/10
Xbox Achievements	90%
The Outerhaven Productions	4.5/5
WellPlayed	9/10
Impulsegamer	4.5/5
Oyungezer Online	9/10
PSX Brasil	90/100
MonsterVine	4.5/5
Everyeye.it	8.5/10
Gamers Heroes	85/100
GameGrin	8.5/10
NextPlay	8.5/10
Eurogamer	4/5
TheGamer	4/5
GamesRadar+	4/5
VG247	4/5
TheSixthAxis	8/10
TechRaptor	8/10
CGMagazine	8/10
PPE.pl	8/10
The Beta Network	8/10
Restart.run	4/5
Loot Level Chill	8/10
Eurogamer.pt	4/5
Stevivor	7.5/10
XboxEra	7.5/10
IGN	5/10

The review scores indicate that Battlefield 6 maintains the series’ core strengths while leveraging next-gen console capabilities for an enhanced experience. Most critics praised the game’s large-scale battles, advanced destruction system, and team-focused gameplay mechanics.

Note: We were not provided with a review code by Electronic Arts, so we have not yet completed our own evaluation. Should we get the opportunity to play the game, our review will be published on the site.

Xbox Game Pass October 2025 Lineup: Ninja Gaiden 4 and New Releases

Nomad — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 14:42:28 GMT

xbox game pass game pass october 2025 ninja gaiden 4

Xbox Game Pass October 2025 Lineup: Ninja Gaiden 4 and New Releases

Nomad

• October 8, 2025

Xbox Game Pass October 2025 Lineup Revealed

Microsoft has announced the latest additions coming to the Xbox Game Pass library. Throughout October, the service will receive numerous titles across cloud, console, and PC platforms.

Available Now

Supermarket Simulator (Cloud, Console, PC)
Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass

Run your own supermarket, stock shelves, hire staff, and deal with shoplifters in this management game.

Coming Soon

October 9

Baldur’s Gate and Baldur’s Gate II: Enhanced Editions (PC)
Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass

The classic RPG titles offering over 100 hours of adventure are coming to PC.

October 14

The Casting of Frank Stone (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S)
Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass

A horror-themed narrative game set in the Dead by Daylight universe.

October 15

Ball x Pit (Cloud, Console, PC) - Day One
Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass

A survival roguelite combining brick-breaking mechanics with base-building.

The Grinch: Christmas Adventures (Cloud, Console, PC)
Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass

A festive platformer featuring everyone’s favorite holiday grouch.

Eternal Strands (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S)
Game Pass Premium

Yellow Brick Games’ fantasy action-adventure debut.

He Is Coming (Game Preview) (PC)
Game Pass Premium

A roguelite RPG auto battler.

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S)
Game Pass Premium

The return of Ryu Hayabusa, with playable characters Momiji, Ayana, and Rachel.

October 16

Pax Dei (PC)
Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass

A sandbox MMO inspired by medieval legends.

October 17

Keeper (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) - Day One
Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass

A wordless story from Double Fine Productions about a lighthouse and a spirited seabird.

October 21

Evil West (Cloud, Console, PC)
Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass

The vampire-hunting action game returns to the Game Pass library.

Ninja Gaiden 4 (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) - Day One
Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass

The latest entry in the legendary ninja hack-and-slash franchise arrives day one on Game Pass.

Now in the Library

Hogwarts Legacy (Cloud, Console, PC)
Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass

An open-world action RPG set in the Harry Potter universe.

Little Rocket Lab (Cloud, Console, PC)
Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass

A cozy RPG about building machines and constructing rockets.

Leaving October 15

Cocoon (Cloud, Console, PC)
Core Keeper (Cloud, Console, PC)
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutants Unleashed (Cloud, Console, PC)

Subscribers can save up to 20% when purchasing titles leaving the service.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Celebrates 5 Million Sales with Major Free Update

Nomad — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:41:05 GMT

Clair Obscur Expedition 33 Expedition 33 update turn-based RPG

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Celebrates 5 Million Sales with Major Free Update

Nomad

• October 8, 2025

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Celebrates 5 Million Sales with Major Free Update

Sandfall Interactive has announced a massive free update for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, one of the year’s most successful titles. The game, which launched in April, has sold 5 million copies worldwide and is getting a substantial content drop to celebrate this milestone.

Major Success Rewarded with New Content

The development team revealed that this free update will be available across all platforms as a thank you to the community. Beyond the impressive sales figures, composer Lorien Testard’s original soundtrack has surpassed 333 million streams since release.

The celebratory update packs a substantial amount of new content for players:

New playable environment: A brand-new location for Expedition 33 characters featuring fresh enemy encounters and surprises to discover
Challenging new boss battles: End-game content designed for veteran players
New costumes: Additional customization options for every character
Expanded language support: The update adds Czech, Ukrainian, Latin American Spanish, Turkish, Vietnamese, Thai, and Indonesian, bringing the total number of supported languages to 19

Sandfall Interactive expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming community support, highlighting the fan-created artwork, cosplays, and stories that have resonated with the development team. The studio also teased that more content is in the works beyond this update.

You can check out our review of the game here.

Discord Confirms Data Breach: User Information Exposed

Skyline — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 03:22:05 GMT

discord hack discord data breach discord security

Discord Confirms Data Breach: User Information Exposed

Skyline

• October 4, 2025

Discord Confirms Data Breach: User Information Exposed

Popular communication platform Discord has confirmed a security breach involving a third-party customer service system, which resulted in unauthorized access to user data. The company stated that the incident took place on September 20, 2025 (GMT) and affected users have been notified via email.

What Happened?

According to Discord’s statement, an unauthorized actor gained limited access to a customer support platform used by the company. The compromised data reportedly includes:

Names, Discord usernames, email addresses, and other contact information
Limited payment details such as payment method, the last four digits of credit cards, and purchase history
IP addresses
Messages and attachments shared with Discord’s Customer Support or Trust & Safety teams

Discord emphasized that the breach did not affect full credit card numbers, CVV codes, physical addresses, account passwords, or general messages exchanged on the platform.

How Discord Responded

Upon discovering the breach, Discord revoked the affected third-party provider’s access, launched an internal investigation, and engaged a leading cybersecurity firm to assist with forensic analysis and remediation.
Law enforcement agencies have also been notified of the incident.

The company said it is reviewing its security controls for all external service providers and will continue to conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with its internal security standards.

Advice for Users

Discord has urged users to remain cautious of suspicious emails or messages that may attempt to exploit the situation. Users with concerns can reach the support team via http://dis.gd/support.

“We take our responsibility to protect user data seriously and understand the concern this may cause,” the company stated in its official communication.

This attack targeting Discord’s customer support system has once again raised questions about third-party platform security and data protection practices across the gaming industry. The company confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing, with additional measures being taken to strengthen user safety moving forward.

Prime Gaming Reveals October Lineup, Headlined by Fallout and XCOM 2!

G-Man — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 19:41:13 GMT

Prime Gaming free games Fallout New Vegas

Prime Gaming Reveals October Lineup, Headlined by Fallout and XCOM 2!

G-Man

• October 3, 2025

Prime Gaming’s October Free Games Have Been Announced

Amazon has officially revealed the lineup of free games for its Prime Gaming service in October. This month’s selection offers a diverse range of titles for every taste, with the standout additions being unforgettable classics from the Fallout series and the strategy masterpiece, XCOM 2.

Throughout the month, Prime Gaming members can claim several titles to keep permanently in their libraries, with new games dropping on different dates.

October Release Schedule

Here are the games you can claim for free via Prime Gaming this October and their release dates:

Available Now: DragonStrike, Tormented Souls
October 9: XCOM® 2, Vampire: The Masquerade — Reckoning of New York
October 16: EMPTY SHELL, Fallout: New Vegas Ultimate Edition, True Fear: Forsaken Souls Part 1
October 23: Hellslave, True Fear: Forsaken Souls Part 2, Lost & Found Agency Collector’s Edition, Fallout 3: Game of the Year Edition
October 30: You Will Die Here Tonight, Werewolf: The Apocalypse — Heart of the Forest, Halloween Stories: Horror Movie Collector’s Edition

Helldivers 2's Massive PC File Size Mystery Solved: Developer Provides Detailed Explanation

Nomad, G-Man — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 09:07:51 GMT

Helldivers 2 Helldivers 2 file size Helldivers 2 PC

Helldivers 2's Massive PC File Size Mystery Solved: Developer Provides Detailed Explanation

Nomad, G-Man

• October 3, 2025

Helldivers 2’s PC File Size Issue Explained by Arrowhead Studios

Arrowhead Game Studios has released an official statement addressing the massive 150 GB file size of Helldivers 2 on PC—a complaint that has been plaguing players for months. The PC version’s bloated size, roughly three times larger than its console counterpart, has sparked considerable debate within the community.

The Root Cause: Data Duplication

A significant portion of the PC version’s files are duplicated. While the console versions clock in at around 30-40 GB, the PC build balloons to 4-5 times that size. The development team revealed that this stems from optimizations designed for older mechanical Hard Disk Drives (HDDs).

Mechanical drives rely on a physical read head that moves across spinning platters to access data, which takes time. To mitigate loading times, game files are copied and distributed across different sections of the disk. For instance, a tree texture might be placed separately near each level that uses it. SSDs don’t suffer from this limitation, which is why console versions don’t employ this duplication technique.

The Solution: A Three-Phase Approach

Arrowhead has outlined a comprehensive plan to tackle the issue:

Short Term: The team will clean up unused assets from the system, achieving modest gains. However, new content additions in upcoming updates will offset these savings, so the primary goal is to prevent the file size from growing further.
Medium Term: The most duplicated and space-consuming files will be consolidated into “common asset” bundles. While this will increase loading times slightly for HDD users, developers aim to keep the increase under 30 seconds rather than several minutes.
Long Term: Future engine improvements will prevent unnecessary data loading, alongside larger and riskier projects such as implementing compression technology similar to what’s used on consoles.

Will 4K Textures Become Optional?

The team acknowledged that making high-resolution textures an optional download is technically feasible, but would require substantial changes to the game engine. This option will only be considered if other solutions prove insufficient.

How Many Players Still Use HDDs?

According to Arrowhead, approximately 12% of PC players still use mechanical drives, though this data isn’t entirely reliable. A crucial factor: in co-op missions, the slowest player’s loading time affects the entire squad. For this reason, the team is hesitant to completely abandon HDD support.

Arrowhead emphasized their commitment to balancing file size reduction with acceptable loading times. Initial improvements are expected to roll out in upcoming updates, though players should expect a considerable wait before seeing significant changes to the PC experience.

Football Manager 26 Is Getting a Tactical Revolution: Dual Formations and New 'Visualizer' Revealed

G-Man — Thu, 02 Oct 2025 14:26:55 GMT

Football Manager 26 FM 26 FM26

Football Manager 26 Is Getting a Tactical Revolution: Dual Formations and New 'Visualizer' Revealed

G-Man

• October 2, 2025

Football Manager 26 is Overhauling its Tactics System

Developer Sports Interactive has just dropped a bombshell for Football Manager 2026, revealing some of the most significant tactical innovations the series has seen in years. Aiming to better reflect the dynamics of modern football, the new system is centered around a groundbreaking change: allowing managers to set distinct formations for when their team is in and out of possession.

Introducing the Dual Formation System

In a move long requested by the series’ dedicated fanbase, managers will no longer be tied to a single formation. Instead, you’ll be able to define two key structures for your team:

In Possession Formation: This is your team’s base shape when on the ball, dictating how your players will position themselves as you build up play from the back.
Out of Possession Formation: This defines how your team will line up when defending, allowing you to create a solid defensive block to nullify opposition attacks.

For example, a team that utilizes a fluid 4-3-3 in possession can now seamlessly transition into a more defensively solid 4-1-4-1 the moment they lose the ball. This system promises to deliver an unprecedented level of tactical flexibility and freedom.

Meet the New ‘Visualizer’ Tool

To complement this new tactical depth, a brand-new tool called the “Visualizer” is being introduced. This feature will allow you to see in real-time how your team’s shape will change as the ball moves across different zones of the pitch.

For instance, you’ll be able to watch how an “Inverted Wing-Back,” who starts in a traditional full-back position during the defensive phase, tucks into a defensive midfield role as your team progresses up the field. The Visualizer will give managers a powerful way to test their ideas and spot potential weaknesses before a ball is even kicked.

Player Roles Have Been Completely Redesigned

With the integration of the dual formation system, player roles have been rebuilt from the ground up. One of the most striking changes is the removal of the familiar “Attack,” “Support,” and “Defend” duties. Instead, two distinct sets of roles will define a player’s behavior:

In Possession Roles: These determine how a player moves and positions themselves during attacking phases. While some classic roles like Mezzala and Trequartista are being retired, new ones such as the Playmaking Wing-Back and Wide Striker are being introduced.
Out of Possession Roles: This is a completely new set of roles that dictates how players will behave defensively, whether they are leading a high press or sitting in a disciplined low block.

Match Engine and UI Enhancements

To fully support this new tactical depth, significant improvements have been made to the match engine. Sports Interactive has announced that players will now make smarter passing decisions, attempt more creative dribbles, and position themselves more efficiently in defense. The AI has been enhanced across the board, from goalkeeper save logic to defensive set-piece marking.

Furthermore, the Team Instructions screen has been given a more visual and intuitive redesign, making it easier than ever for managers to craft their winning philosophies.

Xbox Game Pass Gets Massive Price Hike, Day One Games Locked Behind Priciest Tier

Nomad — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 14:24:28 GMT

xbox game pass game pass price hike game pass price increase

Xbox Game Pass Gets Massive Price Hike, Day One Games Locked Behind Priciest Tier

Nomad

• October 1, 2025

Xbox Game Pass Overhauled with Massive Price Hike: Ultimate Plan Nearly Doubles

Microsoft has announced a radical overhaul of its Xbox Game Pass subscription service. In a move that has sent shockwaves through the gaming community, the company has restructured and renamed its plans, headlined by an astronomical price hike for its top-tier Ultimate subscription.

An Unacceptable Price Hike for Ultimate

The monthly fee for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate has skyrocketed to $29.99 per month. While Microsoft justifies this move by adding new features, it places a heavy burden on gamers. The company’s rationale cites an “expanded catalog, new partner benefits, and upgraded cloud gaming experience,” but a price increase of this magnitude calls into question the service’s long-standing promise of “unmatched value.”

The newly included perks, such as Fortnite Crew (an $11.99/month value) and Ubisoft+ Classics (valued at approximately $15.98/month), seem to offer significant value on paper. However, this calculation ignores whether users actually need or want these specific services. It appears Microsoft has opted to bundle services and uncontrollably increase the price, rather than offering genuine choice.

The New Plan Structure and Details

Microsoft has restructured Game Pass into three distinct plans:

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate - $29.99/Month

Dubbed by Microsoft as being for “players who want the best of everything,” the Ultimate plan will now seriously strain wallets. Subscribers get:

Day One Access to over 75 games a year: Including highly anticipated titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, High on Life 2, Keeper, Ninja Gaiden 4, and The Outer Worlds 2.
Over 400 games: Playable across Xbox console, PC, and cloud.
Fortnite Crew Membership (starting November 18): Includes the Battle Pass, 1,000 V-Bucks monthly, and more.
Ubisoft+ Classics: Dozens of Ubisoft titles including the Assassin’s Creed series, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, and Far Cry games.
1440p Cloud Gaming: Enhanced streaming quality with the shortest wait times.
EA Play Access.
Rewards Program: Earn up to $100 per year (100,000 points) in store credit, with 4x points on game purchases and up to 20% off select Game Pass titles.

Over 45 new games were added to Ultimate today, but this rich content comes at a steep cost.

Xbox Game Pass Premium - $14.99/Month

Existing Standard subscribers will be automatically migrated to Premium. This plan includes:

Over 200 games: On console, PC, and supported devices.
Over 40 new games added today: Including major titles like Diablo IV and Hogwarts Legacy.
New Xbox Exclusives: Available within one year of their launch (excluding Call of Duty titles).
Unlimited Cloud Gaming: Including select games you already own.
In-Game Perks: For titles like League of Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Rainbow Six Siege.
PC Library: Now includes titles like Minecraft, Forza Horizon 5, and Grand Theft Auto V.
Rewards Program: Earn up to $50 per year (50,000 points), with 2x points on purchases.

Although Premium maintains its $14.99 price, the change in day-one access creates a clear divide, effectively telling players to “wait a year” or upgrade.

Xbox Game Pass Essential - $9.99/Month

Former Core subscribers will be upgraded to Essential. The most basic plan now offers:

Over 50 games: Playable on both console and PC.
Unlimited Cloud Gaming: Including select games you already own.
Online Multiplayer.
In-Game Perks: For League of Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, Overwatch 2.
PC Library: Featuring Hades, Cities: Skylines – Remastered, Stardew Valley, and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide.
Rewards Program: Earn up to $25 per year (25,000 points).

While Essential claims to offer the “essence,” its limited game library keeps it at a distance from the full-fledged Game Pass experience.

Cloud Gaming Exits Beta

Microsoft also announced that Xbox Cloud Gaming has officially exited its beta phase. Ultimate subscribers will benefit from the best streaming quality and shortest wait times, but this “privilege” is locked behind the new $30 paywall.

Games Added Today

Microsoft dropped a massive list of games across the new plans:

Ultimate Exclusive (including Ubisoft+ Classics): The Assassin’s Creed franchise, Far Cry series, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, Ghost Recon Breakpoint, and over 40 other Ubisoft titles.

Available on Premium & Ultimate: Diablo IV, Hogwarts Legacy, Age of Mythology: Retold, Frostpunk 2, Warcraft remastered series, and classic Fallout and Quake games.

Available on All Plans: Hades, Cities: Skylines Remastered, Disney Dreamlight Valley, Warhammer 40,000: Darktide.

Criticisms and Lingering Questions

It’s widely believed that concerns over the long-term sustainability of Game Pass are behind this aggressive move. Since its launch in 2017, Microsoft has invested heavily in the service, but profitability may not be meeting internal expectations.

Hiking the price of the Ultimate plan by nearly 100% marks a significant departure from the promise of “delivering value to players.” At a time of global economic strain, expecting gamers to shell out $30 monthly severely damages the service’s accessibility.

Furthermore, delaying first-party Xbox titles for a year on the Premium plan shows a new strategy of tiered access even for Microsoft’s own games. The complete exclusion of Call of Duty titles from this one-year promise is another point of major contention.

Regional Pricing Uncertainty

Microsoft noted that pricing “may vary by region” based on “exchange rates and market conditions.” This creates additional uncertainty for players in countries with volatile economies, who may face even more unpredictable costs.

Plan Comparison Table

Feature	Essential $9.99/mo	Premium $14.99/mo	Ultimate $29.99/mo
Game Library	50+ Games	200+ Games	400+ Games
Day One Access	❌	❌ (Xbox games after 1 year)	✅ (75+ games/year)
PC Support	✅	✅	✅
Cloud Gaming	✅ Unlimited	✅ Unlimited	✅ Unlimited (1440p)
Online Multiplayer (Console)	✅	✅	✅
EA Play	❌	❌	✅
Fortnite Crew	❌	❌	✅ ($11.99 value)
Ubisoft+ Classics	❌	❌	✅ ($15.98 value)
In-Game Perks	✅ Basic	✅ Enhanced	✅ Full
Annual Rewards Potential	$25 (25k points)	$50 (50k points)	$100 (100k points)
Points on Purchases	Standard	2x	4x
Discounts on Game Pass Games	❌	5% back	10% back + 20% off
Annual Cost	$119.88	$179.88	$359.88
Increase from Old Plan	Stable (from Core)	Stable (from Standard)	~100% Increase ⚠️

The Bottom Line

While Microsoft’s Game Pass restructure offers more options on paper, in reality, it locks players into a tiered system that feels less about choice and more about pushing subscriptions to the highest price point. The astronomical price hike for the Ultimate plan signals a shift from being a service “for everyone” to a premium product.

Players now have to ask themselves: Is $30 a month truly worth it? Microsoft’s aggressive pricing is a risky move that will test player loyalty and shape the future of game subscription services.

The changes are effective today, with existing subscribers being automatically migrated to their corresponding new plans.

EA Acquired for $55 Billion in Historic Gaming Industry Deal

Nomad — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 14:24:28 GMT

EA acquisition Electronic Arts EA sold

EA Acquired for $55 Billion in Historic Gaming Industry Deal

Nomad

• September 29, 2025

Gaming Giant EA Acquired for $55 Billion in Largest All-Cash Take-Private Deal

Electronic Arts (EA), one of the gaming industry’s biggest publishers, has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by an investor consortium led by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) for $55 billion. The consortium also includes major investment firms Silver Lake and Affinity Partners.

Deal Breakdown

The publisher behind franchises like EA SPORTS FC (formerly FIFA), Battlefield, Apex Legends, The Sims, Mass Effect, Crysis, and Need for Speed is going private in an all-cash transaction. Under the agreement, EA shareholders will receive $210 per share, representing a 25% premium over the company’s closing price on September 25, 2025. Following the transaction’s completion, EA’s stock will no longer trade on public markets.

EA’s current Chairman and CEO Andrew Wilson will remain at the helm, and the company will continue to be headquartered in Redwood City, California. The deal is expected to close in Q1 of fiscal year 2027, pending regulatory approvals.

CEO Andrew Wilson’s Statement

In a statement about the acquisition, EA CEO Andrew Wilson emphasized his team’s track record of delivering extraordinary experiences to millions of players and building some of gaming’s most iconic brands. “We will continue to push the boundaries of entertainment, sports, and technology,” Wilson said, adding that the partnership would enable EA to create “transformative experiences to inspire generations to come.”

The company will maintain its Redwood City headquarters and current leadership structure under Wilson following the deal’s completion.

What This Means for Gaming

The acquisition, approved by EA’s Board of Directors, is expected to close in Q1 FY27. This massive buyout will strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position in the gaming sector while providing EA with increased resources for global growth and technology investments. EA reported approximately $7.5 billion in revenue for fiscal year 2025.

Minecraft Gets Underwater Mounts and Spears!

G-Man — Sat, 27 Sep 2025 14:41:45 GMT

minecraft update 2025 minecraft spear weapon minecraft zombie horse

Minecraft Gets Underwater Mounts and Spears!

G-Man

• September 27, 2025

Major Minecraft Update Incoming: New Weapons and Mounts Added to the Game!

Mojang shared exciting details about Minecraft’s upcoming updates during Minecraft LIVE September 2025. Two major updates, The Copper Age and Mounts of Mayhem, are packed with features that players have been waiting for.

The Copper Age Launches September 30th

The first major news is that The Copper Age update will be released on September 30th, 2025. This update will bring subtle changes to the game’s early-stage tool and weapon progression system. Copper golems will be added to the game, while powered shelves will also become available to players.

New Features Coming with Mounts of Mayhem

The Spear: The Game’s First Long-Range Melee Weapon

The long-awaited spear weapon is finally being added to Minecraft. This weapon can be crafted from copper, iron, gold, diamond, and netherite materials. The spear offers two different attack types:

Jab attack: Designed for close-range combat
Charge attack: Specially designed for mounted combat

The most interesting feature of the spear is that its damage scales with movement speed. The faster you move, the more damage you deal!

Zombie Horses Make Their Return

Zombie horses, which have only been available in Creative mode since 2013, are finally coming to Survival mode. These green-colored horses will spawn in savanna and plains biomes. While zombie horses themselves are passive, their riders are quite hostile.

Underwater Exploration: The Nautilus

Ocean exploration is about to become much easier. The nautilus, a new underwater mount, can be tamed using pufferfish. When riding a nautilus, the Breath of the Nautilus effect prevents your air consumption.

Like spears, nautiluses can be equipped with five different armor types: copper, iron, gold, diamond, and Netherite. You’ll find these armors in treasure chests.

When Can You Test These Features?

These new features will soon be available for testing in Bedrock Edition preview and beta versions, as well as Java Edition snapshots. The Copper Age update will launch within days, while Mounts of Mayhem features are coming later this year.

Personally, while the showcased content looks appealing, it’s disappointing to see a massive company like Mojang take so long to add such limited content to the game. With over 500 employees across multiple studios, Mojang treating features that modders could implement in a week as major updates feels insulting to players. When you compare this to the substantial updates that Hello Games - a much smaller team - brings to No Man’s Sky, it becomes clear how justified our criticism of Mojang really is.

It's Official: Forza Horizon 6 Is Headed to Japan!

G-Man — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 11:26:17 GMT

Forza Horizon 6 Japan Forza Horizon 6 release date

It's Official: Forza Horizon 6 Is Headed to Japan!

G-Man

• September 25, 2025

The moment fans have been dreaming of for years is finally here. During the Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2025 broadcast, Forza Horizon 6 was officially announced, confirming that the series’ next destination will be Japan. Developer Playground Games shared the huge news with a cinematic trailer and confirmed a 2026 release window.

Following the event, interviews with Art Director Don Arceta and Cultural Consultant Kyoko Yamashita shed light on many of the burning questions about the game. Here’s everything we know so far about Forza Horizon 6!

Why Japan?

Playground Games emphasized that Japan has long been the most requested location by fans. “Japan has such a unique culture—from its cars and music to its fashion—that provides the perfect atmosphere for a Horizon festival,” said Arceta. He added that with today’s technology, the studio feels it’s the right time to represent Japan with the detail and respect it deserves.

Experience from previous games has also played a critical role. For instance, the Hot Wheels expansion for Forza Horizon 5 provided the team with valuable experience in designing the multi-layered, elevated roads of Tokyo.

What Locations Will Be Featured?

The Forza Horizon series is known for creating maps that capture the spirit of a country rather than being one-to-one replicas, prioritizing gameplay and fun. Forza Horizon 6 will continue this tradition.

While the reveal trailer showcased Mount Fuji and its surroundings, much more awaits. The development team stated they will blend the country’s natural beauty with its urban landscapes. They specifically highlighted that Tokyo will be one of the most detailed and layered city environments they have ever created. The goal is to present the unique cultural essence of Japan in the signature “Horizon style.”

Cultural Authenticity and Realism

Playground Games is working meticulously to ensure Japan is portrayed not just as a visual spectacle, but also with cultural accuracy. To achieve this, Cultural Consultant Kyoko Yamashita was brought on board early in the development process. She stated that the team is focused on avoiding clichés and capturing the country’s “lived-in feel.”

“The team’s goal was to create a living world, not just a postcard or a backdrop,” Yamashita explained. “It requires thousands of small, respectful decisions, from how a neighborhood sounds to what the color of a shop sign communicates.” The aim is for players who have never been to Japan to feel as if they are truly there.

Japanese Car Culture and Seasons

Forza Horizon 6 will put Japan’s rich automotive culture front and center. Players can expect a wide range of vehicles and experiences, from Kei cars to the deep roots of modification and drift culture.

Dynamic seasons, a staple since Forza Horizon 4, will carry a much deeper meaning in Japan. From snowy winters to sweltering summers and, of course, the iconic Sakura (cherry blossom) season, these changes will affect not only the scenery but also the gameplay and overall atmosphere.

Playground Games announced that more details and gameplay footage will be shared in early 2026. The game is now available to wishlist on Xbox and Steam.

Ghost of Yotei Review Scores Are In!

G-Man — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 10:21:19 GMT

Ghost of Yotei Ghost of Yotei review scores Ghost of Yotei Metacritic

Ghost of Yotei Review Scores Are In!

G-Man

• September 25, 2025

Ghost of Yotei Review Scores Revealed

Review scores for Sucker Punch’s highly anticipated samurai adventure Ghost of Yotei have been published. The game has received exceptionally high scores from critics as a worthy successor to Ghost of Tsushima.

Overall Review Averages

Metacritic: 87/100
OpenCritic: 89/100

Release Date

Ghost of Yotei will launch exclusively on PlayStation 5 on October 2, 2025.

Detailed Review Scores

Platform/Site	Score
Game Rant	10/10
PlayStation Universe	10/10
COGconnected	100/100
GameSpew	10/10
SECTOR.sk	10/10
Toisto	5/5
Loot Level Chill	10/10
Andrenoob	10/10
KonsoliFIN	5/5
4News.it	9.7/10
MMORPG.com	9.5/10
WellPlayed	9.5/10
PSX Brasil	95/100
SavePoint Gaming	9.5/10
Nexus Hub	9.5/10
INVEN	9.5/10
Impulsegamer	4.6/5
GamesRadar+	4.5/5
GameSpot	9/10
TheSixthAxis	9/10
Push Square	9/10
Gaming Nexus	9/10
Gameblog	9/10
GRYOnline.pl	9/10
GamingBolt	9/10
Oyungezer Online	9/10
PPE.pl	9/10
Worth Playing	9/10
Gamepressure	9/10
Console Creatures	9/10
Enternity.gr	9/10
Too Much Gaming	4.5/5
Spaziogames	8.9/10
Wccftech	8.8/10
Everyeye.it	8.3/10
HCL.hr	82/100
IGN	8/10
TheGamer	4/5
Tom’s Guide	4/5
Digital Spy	4/5
Dexerto	4/5
ZTGD	8/10
CGMagazine	8/10
Saudi Gamer	8/10
Sirus Gaming	8/10
Digitec Magazine	4/5
Eurogamer.pt	4/5

The review scores look promising so far, suggesting that Ghost of Yotei successfully builds upon the foundation established by its predecessor while introducing fresh elements to the samurai adventure formula.

Note: We were not provided with a review code by Sony Interactive Entertainment, so we have not yet completed our own evaluation. Should we get the opportunity to play the game, our review will be published on the site.

State of Play September 2025: First Wolverine Gameplay, Battlefield 6, and All the Announcements!

G-Man — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 22:04:31 GMT

State of Play PlayStation PS5

State of Play September 2025: First Wolverine Gameplay, Battlefield 6, and All the Announcements!

G-Man

• September 24, 2025

Sony Unveils Future Lineup at State of Play: Here Are All the Announcements!

Sony hosted its State of Play presentation on September 24, announcing a slate of new games, hardware, and exciting updates for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. From Housemarque’s new project to Insomniac’s highly anticipated Wolverine game, the event was jam-packed. Here’s a breakdown of all the major announcements and key details from the show.

New Game from Housemarque: Saros

The developer behind Returnal, Housemarque, unveiled a new sci-fi action game titled Saros. The game follows a character named Arjun Devraj on his quest for answers on a mysterious planet called Carcosa. The gameplay footage showcased innovative mechanics like the “Soltari Shield,” which can absorb and deflect projectiles, and the “Power Weapon,” which is fueled by this absorbed energy. The game promises to build upon the award-winning action foundation of Returnal.

Platform: PS5
Release Date: March 20, 2026

New Footage of Marvel’s Wolverine

One of the night’s biggest surprises was a new look at Marvel’s Wolverine, developed by Insomniac Games. Showcased in a brief cinematic trailer, the game proved it will stay true to the character’s savage and brutal nature. The trailer featured Logan in the iconic location of Madripoor and dropped hints that characters like Omega Red and Mystique may appear in the game.

Platform: PS5
Release Window: Fall 2026

Battlefield 6 Campaign Mode Revealed

Electronic Arts and Battlefield Studios released a new trailer focusing on the single-player campaign for Battlefield 6. The narrative explores a world thrown into chaos following the collapse of post-WWII alliances. Players will embark on a dangerous mission to reclaim a strategically vital location. The trailer highlighted intense action sequences and a cinematic narrative.

Platform: PS5
Release Date: October 10, 2025

Classics Reborn: Deus Ex and Dynasty Warriors 3

Deus Ex Remastered: The legendary cyberpunk RPG Deus Ex is being remastered for PS5 in a collaboration between Eidos-Montréal and Aspyr. This version will feature enhanced visuals, overhauled controls, and modern features like haptic feedback. The game is set to release on February 5, 2026.
Dynasty Warriors 3: Complete Edition Remastered: Koei Tecmo’s unforgettable “Musou” classic is also getting a facelift for the PS5. With improved graphics and performance, Dynasty Warriors 3 will arrive on March 19, 2026.

New Game Announcements

Zero Parades (2026): A new isometric RPG with a similar art style from ZA/UM, the developer of Disco Elysium.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 (December 8, 2025): The popular flight simulator is coming to PS5, complete with PlayStation VR2 support.
Halloween: The Game (September 8, 2026): An asymmetrical horror game developed by IllFonic, where one player takes on the role of Michael Myers while others play as his victims.
The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin (January 28, 2026): An open-world RPG based on the popular anime series, offering both single-player and multiplayer modes.
Nioh 3 (February 6, 2026): The beloved action-RPG series from Team Ninja is making its return with a third installment.
Code Vein II (January 30, 2026): The sequel to Bandai Namco’s anime-style action-RPG has been announced.
Crimson Desert (March 19, 2026): An open-world action-adventure game from Pearl Abyss with stunning visuals.
Chronoscript: The Endless End (2026): A 2D action-adventure game with a striking hand-drawn pen art style, where an editor becomes trapped within the pages of an unending story.

PlayStation Hardware & Accessories

Pulse Elevate Wireless Speakers: These new desktop speakers are designed for gamers, featuring PlayStation Link technology for lossless, ultra-low latency audio. The speakers, which allow seamless switching between PC/Mac and PS5/Portal, will be available in black and white in 2026.
God of War 20th Anniversary DualSense Controller: A limited-edition DualSense controller was unveiled to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the God of War series, featuring Kratos’s iconic tattoo.

PlayStation Plus Updates

October Monthly Games (Available from October 7, 2025):
- Alan Wake II (Premium, Extra, Essential)
- Goat Simulator 3 (Premium, Extra, Essential)
- Cocoon (Premium, Extra, Essential)
Game Catalog (Available from September 26, 2025):
- The Last of Us Part II Remastered (Premium, Extra)
Classics Catalog (Coming Soon):
- Tekken 3 (PS1)
- Soulcalibur III (PS2)
- Tomb Raider Anniversary (PS2)

The Takeaway: What’s Next for PlayStation Fans?

Sony’s latest State of Play showcased a diverse lineup that included both blockbuster titles and intriguing indie projects, proving the PlayStation ecosystem remains as varied as ever. Exclusives like Marvel’s Wolverine and the new Housemarque IP Saros signaled that the PS5 will continue its strong momentum with ambitious releases. For fans of nostalgia, the remasters of classics like Deus Ex and Dynasty Warriors 3 generated significant excitement, while the addition of The Last of Us Part II Remastered to PlayStation Plus was a major value proposition. On the hardware front, the Pulse Elevate speakers show Sony’s continued commitment to enhancing the gaming experience with premium peripherals. In short, the event gave PlayStation players plenty of reasons to be excited for the years ahead.

Borderlands 4: Switch 2 Release Indefinitely Delayed After Rocky Launch

Skyline — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 10:54:50 GMT

Borderlands 4 Nintendo Switch 2 Switch 2 delay

Borderlands 4: Switch 2 Release Indefinitely Delayed After Rocky Launch

Skyline

• September 24, 2025

The Nintendo Switch 2 release of Borderlands 4 has been put on hold indefinitely. The game launched earlier this month to widespread backlash over its disastrous optimization, running poorly across both consoles and high-end PCs. A Switch 2 release was initially scheduled for the coming weeks, but that plan has now been scrapped.

According to the developers, the delay comes down to the need for further development and polish. They also hope to better align the release with the planned addition of cross-save support, which the team says remains a top priority.

In line with Nintendo’s policies, all digital pre-orders have been canceled. Players can request a refund immediately, or the process will happen automatically beginning September 26. Those who pre-ordered physical editions are advised to contact their respective retailers for further details.

The troubled launch has also fueled controversy around Gearbox boss Randy Pitchford, whose social media comments defending the PC version — and suggesting unhappy players should “just get a refund” — only added fuel to the fire.

PlayStation Announces New State of Play, Featuring Gameplay From Housemarque's New Title 'Saros'

G-Man — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:25:11 GMT

PlayStation State of Play Saros

PlayStation Announces New State of Play, Featuring Gameplay From Housemarque's New Title 'Saros'

G-Man

• September 23, 2025

PlayStation Locks In Date for New State of Play Showcase

Sony Interactive Entertainment has officially announced its next State of Play presentation. The show is set to run for over 35 minutes, promising updates and reveals from PlayStation Studios and third-party partners from around the globe.

When and Where to Watch

The presentation will air live on Wednesday, September 24, at 2 PM PT / 5 PM ET / 11 PM CEST. You can tune in via the official PlayStation YouTube and Twitch channels.

What to Expect

According to the announcement, the broadcast will feature new looks at anticipated third-party and indie titles. The confirmed centerpiece of the show will be an extended look at the new game from Housemarque, the acclaimed studio behind the PS5 hit Returnal.

The studio’s new “mysterious” title, Saros, will get a significant spotlight with nearly five minutes of gameplay captured directly on a PlayStation 5. Saros is described as a sci-fi action game and is currently slated for release next year.

Silent Hill f Review Scores Are In!

Nomad — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 07:33:19 GMT

Silent Hill f Silent Hill f review scores Silent Hill f Metacritic

Silent Hill f Review Scores Are In!

Nomad

• September 22, 2025

Silent Hill f Review Scores Revealed

Review scores for Konami’s long-awaited horror title Silent Hill f have been published, and the game has received overwhelmingly positive critical reception.

Overall Review Averages

Metacritic: 86/100
OpenCritic: 85/100

Release Date

Silent Hill f will launch on September 25, 2025 for PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S platforms. Early access will be available starting September 23, 2025.

Detailed Review Scores

Platform/Site	Score
TheSixthAxis	10/10
Dexerto	5/5
Niche Gamer	10/10
IGN Spain	10/10
Game8	96/100
GRYOnline.pl	9.5/10
Stevivor	9.5/10
Just Play it	9.5/10
Gamepressure	9.5/10
Gamer Guides	92/100
GameSpot	9/10
Shacknews	9/10
COGconnected	90/100
The Games Machine	9/10
Wccftech	9/10
Gameblog	9/10
CGMagazine	9/10
The Outerhaven Productions	4.5/5
Gamefa	9/10
Saudi Gamer	9/10
Gameliner	4.5/5
XboxEra	9/10
Endless Mode	90/100
Loot Level Chill	9/10
IGN India	9/10
INVEN	8.7/10
Oyungezer Online	8.5/10
Worth Playing	8.5/10
One More Game	8.5/10
GamePro	80/100
Gamersky	8/10
BaziCenter	8/10
MondoXbox	8/10
Restart.run	4/5
SteamDeckHQ	4/5
Console-Tribe	80/100
IGN Italy	7.5/10
GAMES.CH	73%
Push Square	7/10
Enternity.gr	7/10
MonsterVine	3.5/5

The strong critical consensus suggests that Silent Hill f successfully delivers on the franchise’s signature psychological horror elements while bringing fresh innovation to the series. With the majority of outlets scoring the game between 8-10, it appears Konami’s return to Silent Hill has struck the right chord with critics.

Microsoft Announces Xbox Series X|S Price Hike in the US

G-Man — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 19:45:26 GMT

Xbox Xbox price hike Xbox prices

Microsoft Announces Xbox Series X|S Price Hike in the US

G-Man

• September 19, 2025

Microsoft has announced that it will be increasing the prices of its Xbox consoles in the United States. Citing “changes in the macroeconomic environment” as the reason, the new pricing structure will take effect on October 3, 2025. For now, this price adjustment will only impact the U.S. market.

What Are the New Prices?

The price update affects both the Xbox Series X and Series S models. The new recommended retail prices are as follows:

Xbox Series S 512 GB: $399.99
Xbox Series S 1 TB: $449.99
Xbox Series X Digital: $599.99
Xbox Series X: $649.99
Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition: $799.99

For context, this represents a significant jump for the flagship consoles. The standard Xbox Series X will increase from its previous price of $599.99 to $649.99, while the entry-level Xbox Series S 512GB model will see a smaller increase from $379.99 to $399.99.

Accessories and Other Regions Unaffected

Microsoft has confirmed that this price increase does not apply to accessories such as controllers and headsets. Furthermore, the company stated that the change is currently exclusive to the United States, and pricing in all other markets will remain the same for the time being.

Rematch Season 1 Goes Live September 23, Adds 3v3 Ranked Mode and Major Gameplay Overhaul

Andron — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 11:12:53 GMT

Rematch Game Update Season 1

Rematch Season 1 Goes Live September 23, Adds 3v3 Ranked Mode and Major Gameplay Overhaul

Andron

• September 18, 2025

Rematch Kicks Off Season 1 with 3v3 Ranked Mode and Major Overhauls

The long-awaited 3v3 ranked mode is officially coming to Rematch, launching with the massive Season 1 update scheduled to go live on September 23rd.

A New Season, New Features

Addressing a major community request to alleviate the difficulty of forming a full 5-person team, the new 3v3 mode promises faster, more action-packed matches. The Season 1 update doesn’t stop there; it also introduces a fresh batch of cosmetic items and new customization options. This update arrives alongside the recently enabled cross-play support, allowing you to team up with friends regardless of their platform.

Gameplay Improvements

The patch brings significant enhancements to core gameplay. Player movement has been refined to be more responsive, while notorious exploits like the “Ippy Slide” have been nerfed. Goalkeeper dives are now more reliable across the board. While numerous issues related to the “Extra Effort” mechanic have been resolved, the developers note that more fixes are still on the way.

Furthermore, skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) parameters in ranked matches have been tightened to ensure more balanced and competitive games.

Fixed an issue where goalkeeper invulnerability would persist after a dive.
Addressed a bug allowing goalkeepers to catch the ball from inside the net.
Fixed a bug that caused Extra Effort to cancel during a change of direction.
Removed an exploit that allowed players to gain unintended speed using Push Ball.
Corrected an aiming issue for mouse and keyboard users where the crosshair would drift.
Tweaked ball touch distance during control and updated the corresponding animation.

New Localization Options

Expanding its global audience, the Season 1 update also introduces full voice-over support for two new languages: Turkish and Polish.

Network Next Technology

To combat high latency, a new technology called “Network Next” is currently being tested in the Sao Paulo server region. Based on the positive results so far, the team plans to roll it out to other regions in the future.

Additional Updates

New parameters have been added to Custom Matches, giving players more control over their games with options to enable or disable the goalkeeper and skip goal celebrations.

The update is packed with numerous other bug fixes and quality-of-life improvements, ranging from UI corrections to audio enhancements. The beta for the Season 1 update went live on September 17th, and players are encouraged to participate to provide feedback and help identify any outstanding bugs before the full release on September 23rd.

Hunt: Showdown Unveils 'Web of the Empress' Event and Update 2.5

G-Man — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 15:43:40 GMT

Hunt: Showdown Web of the Empress Hunt Showdown new update

Hunt: Showdown Unveils 'Web of the Empress' Event and Update 2.5

G-Man

• September 17, 2025

“Web of the Empress” Event is Crawling into Hunt: Showdown 1896

Crytek has officially announced “Web of the Empress,” a massive new in-game event for its popular shooter, Hunt: Showdown 1896, set to launch alongside Update 2.5. Dropping on September 24, 2025, the update will introduce new enemies, a game-changing Tarot Card mechanic, and a host of gameplay improvements.

A New Threat Creeps into the Bayou: The Bileweavers

The update’s central theme revolves around the grim origin story of The Empress, a character resurrected and corrupted by an infestation of spiders. The resulting creatures, known as “Bileweavers,” are poised to become the bayou’s newest nightmare.

While weak individually, these creatures move in swarms, fiercely defending their territory. Hunters brave enough to venture into their colossal nests will face high risks for a chance at high-value rewards. Here’s what awaits inside these infested grounds:

New Weapons: Two new scarce weapons, the Homestead 78 and the Wildland.
Destiny’s Dial: A machine that grants players random traits and buffs.
Sealed Rewards: Includes scarce Burn Traits, restoration kits, and ammo boxes.
Powerful Tarot Cards.

Game-Changing Tarot Cards

The Web of the Empress event introduces 12 different Tarot Cards to the game. These single-use consumables each possess a unique, powerful effect that can turn the tide of a battle. However, this power often comes at a dire cost. Players can find these cards in Bileweaver Nests, earn them through the Dark Tribute system, or loot them from fallen Hunters.

A few of the revealed cards include:

The Empress: Grants Catalyst, Necromancer, and a random rare trait.
The World: Reveals the location of all Boss Targets on the map.
The Tower: Unleashes massive damage to monsters and targets in a large radius, but sets the user on fire.

Other Changes Arriving with Update 2.5

Beyond the “Web of the Empress” event, Update 2.5 brings a slew of balance changes and improvements. Notably, the melee combat system has received significant enhancements for better hit consistency. The update also includes weapon balancing, a rework of the UI and lobby system, and numerous bug fixes based on community feedback.

Counter-Strike 2 Update Adds Genesis Collection and New Features

Skyline — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 09:03:04 GMT

Counter-Strike 2 CS2 update Genesis Collection

Counter-Strike 2 Update Adds Genesis Collection and New Features

Skyline

• September 17, 2025

Counter-Strike 2 Update: Genesis Collection, New Sounds, and Map Scripting Tools

Valve has rolled out a fresh update for Counter-Strike 2, bringing notable additions for players, spectators, and map creators alike.

Genesis Collection

The highlight of the patch is the new Genesis Collection, featuring 17 community-designed weapon finishes. These skins can be obtained through the Genesis Uplink Terminal, available as part of the game’s weekly drops.

Spectator Loadout

A new spectator loadout feature lets teammates view a player’s full inventory after they’re eliminated. From weapon skins to cosmetic details, spectators can now inspect the loadout in detail while watching the round play out.

Map Scripting Support

For community creators, Valve has introduced cs_script, a JavaScript-based scripting system that opens up new possibilities for custom map logic. An example map, script_zoo.vmap, has been added to showcase its potential.

Sound and UI Improvements

Grenades now feature distinct, high-fidelity sounds for drawing, inspecting, pulling the pin, and throwing.
Inspect panels now support zooming with the mouse wheel and panning with shift + drag.

Other Changes

Subtick shooting has been refined for more consistent gameplay.

With these updates, CS2 continues to expand its customization, spectator, and creator tools—making the experience richer for players on all fronts.

Assassin's Creed Shadows: Claws of Awaji Expansion is Out Now - Price, Details, and How to Start

G-Man — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 09:58:00 GMT

Assassin's Creed Shadows Claws of Awaji AC Shadows DLC

Assassin's Creed Shadows: Claws of Awaji Expansion is Out Now - Price, Details, and How to Start

G-Man

• September 16, 2025

Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ First Expansion, Claws of Awaji, Has Landed - Here’s the Price and How to Start

The first major expansion for Ubisoft’s controversial Assassin’s Creed Shadows, titled Claws of Awaji, is now available worldwide. This DLC introduces a new island to explore, fresh gameplay mechanics, and a new storyline aiming to tie up some loose ends from the main campaign’s cliffhanger ending.

Players who pre-ordered the game or own the Season Pass will receive the expansion for free. For everyone else, it is available for individual purchase.

Claws of Awaji Pricing

The expansion has a global standard price of $25 USD. While regional pricing may vary slightly across different digital storefronts, this is the benchmark price for the new content.

How to Start the DLC

As an endgame expansion, Claws of Awaji requires players to have made significant progress in the main story. Before you can travel to the new Awaji Island, you must complete the following objectives:

Complete the Shinbakufu Target Board.
Finish the personal questlines for Naoe, Yasuke, and Junjiro.
Complete the “Out of the Shadows” main quest.

Once these prerequisites are met, simply speak to Hattori Hanzo’s contact, Konatsu, at your Hideout in Settsu. This conversation will trigger the new questline that leads you directly to Awaji Island.

Although Awaji Island is a separate region with its own map, you can travel back to the mainland at any time. A new arrow icon on the map will allow you to fast travel back to your Hideout seamlessly.

Is It Worth Playing?

We’re currently diving into the expansion for our full review, but early impressions from other outlets seem to be mixed. We’ll have our own verdict for you soon. In the meantime, you can check out our original review for the base game right here.

What are your thoughts on the expansion? Are you jumping in? Let us know in the comments below.

Hades II Full Release Date Confirmed, Cross-Saves Coming to Nintendo Switch

Skyline — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 14:44:27 GMT

Hades II Hades II 1.0 Hades II release date

Hades II Full Release Date Confirmed, Cross-Saves Coming to Nintendo Switch

Skyline

• September 12, 2025

Hades II Leaves Early Access: Full Release Date Confirmed

The long-awaited full release of Hades II is just around the corner. Developer Supergiant Games has announced that the critically acclaimed sequel will exit its Early Access phase and launch its 1.0 version on September 25, 2025.

Hades II, which has been in Early Access since May 2024, has been shaped by player feedback throughout its development. For those who already own the game, the v1.0 launch will be a free, automatic update. New players will be able to purchase the game at its current price.

Cross-Save Support for Nintendo Switch and PC

One of the most exciting features arriving with the full release is cross-save functionality. Players will be able to transfer their save data from the Steam version to both the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming next-gen Nintendo Switch 2. Supergiant says this feature will be accessible via a simple in-game menu, offering a seamless way to continue your journey across different platforms.

“The Biggest Game We’ve Ever Made”

Supergiant Games noted that Hades II is the studio’s first-ever sequel, representing over four and a half years of dedicated work. In a statement, the team emphasized the crucial role of the Early Access community in helping “fully realize this game’s potential.” The result, they say, is “the biggest game we’ve ever made.” The developers extended their thanks to both the early adopters for their support and to new players for their patience.

Football Manager 26 Pre-Orders Are Live: All-New UI Revealed!

G-Man — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:44:34 GMT

Football Manager 26 FM 26 FM26

Football Manager 26 Pre-Orders Are Live: All-New UI Revealed!

G-Man

• September 10, 2025

Football Manager 26 Pre-Orders Go Live, Revealing Price and a Completely Overhauled UI

Following the major announcement of its switch to the Unity engine, Football Manager 26 is now officially available for pre-order. A detailed new video showcases the game’s pricing and, more importantly, a radical redesign of its user interface.

FM 26 Price and Pre-Order Details

Football Manager 26 is priced at $59.99 USD on Steam, the Epic Games Store, and Xbox. Players who pre-order can take advantage of a 10% launch discount, bringing the price down to $53.99. This promotional offer is slated to end on November 4, 2025.

A Fresh Interface for a New Era

The reveal video highlights what might be the most significant change in FM 26: the user interface. The classic vertical sidebar, a staple of the series for years, has been completely replaced. Here are the key features of the new design:

New Navigation Bar: All primary tabs (Squad, Tactics, Recruitment, etc.) are now located at the top of the screen. Hovering over them reveals sub-menus, allowing for faster and more fluid navigation.
The “Portal”: Your New Hub: The home screen is now called the “Portal,” a modern, card-based hub. All critical information—inbox, news, fixtures, team reports, and the calendar—is consolidated on these cards, providing an at-a-glance overview of your club without needing to jump between menus.
Customizable Bookmarks: You can now pin your most-used screens to a customizable bookmark bar. Whether you live in the transfer market or the tactics screen, your favorite pages are always just one click away.
Enhanced Search & ‘FMpedia’: The search function has evolved into a comprehensive guide. The new “FMpedia” feature offers detailed explanations of game mechanics, football terminology, and tactics, serving as an invaluable tool for newcomers and returning veterans alike.

With these sweeping changes, Sports Interactive aims to preserve Football Manager’s famous depth while offering a more modern, intuitive, and accessible experience. It’s an ambitious goal for the veteran studio. For more on FM 26’s new match engine and system requirements, check out our previous coverage here.

Wolfenstein 3 Will Happen, Confirms MachineGames: 'We Have a Story to Tell'

G-Man — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 07:11:31 GMT

Wolfenstein 3 Wolfenstein 3 Release Date Wolfenstein 3 News

Wolfenstein 3 Will Happen, Confirms MachineGames: 'We Have a Story to Tell'

G-Man

• September 9, 2025

Wolfenstein Dev Confirms: “We Have a Story to Tell”

Despite being busy with Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, MachineGames studio head Jerk Gustafsson has clarified that their work on the Wolfenstein series is not yet over, confirming the series was always planned as a trilogy. This has reignited hope that a third mainline game, a direct sequel to Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus, is on the horizon.

A Trilogy Was Always in the Cards

Speaking in the latest episode of Noclip’s documentary series on the history of MachineGames, co-founder and studio head Jerk Gustafsson stated that the studio always envisioned the core Wolfenstein series as a trilogy, and its third chapter remains to be developed.

Gustafsson summarized the journey of protagonist B.J. Blazkowicz so far:

The first game is very much about B.J. and how he understands that the Nazis have won the war, but it’s also a very personal journey for him. He meets Anya, and he starts to see that there are other things at play as well, not only fighting Nazis. In The New Colossus, we move into a wider group of people around you, being part of the resistance, something bigger and something also like a family to you, but at the same time you’re also preparing to start your own family.

Gustafsson emphasized that this narrative arc was planned from the very beginning. “We have always seen this as a trilogy. That journey for B.J., even during those first weeks at id [Software] when we mapped out New Order, we had the plan for, at least, that character: what will happen in the second one, what will happen in the third one,” he said, adding: ”I think that’s important to say, because — at least, I hope — we’re not done with Wolfenstein yet. We have a story to tell.”

The Studio’s Other Projects and the Future of the Series

MachineGames successfully rebooted the series with Wolfenstein: The New Order in 2014 and its sequel Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus in 2017. Alongside these two mainline games, the studio also developed a prequel, a spin-off, and a VR experience. The last major release in the franchise was 2019’s Wolfenstein: Youngblood, a co-op spin-off co-developed with Arkane Lyon, which received a mixed reception from critics and fans.

Since then, MachineGames has been focused on developing Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. While the studio will likely be engaged with the Indiana Jones franchise for the foreseeable future, it seems we’ll just have to wait a bit longer to see the conclusion of B.J.’s story.

Football Manager 26: New Unity-Powered Match Engine and System Requirements Revealed

G-Man — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 11:31:48 GMT

Football Manager 26 FM26 FM26 System Requirements

Football Manager 26: New Unity-Powered Match Engine and System Requirements Revealed

G-Man

• September 4, 2025

A New Era for Football Management: Football Manager 26 Unveils Unity-Powered Match Engine

Sports Interactive has shared the first official footage of the highly anticipated Football Manager 26, showcasing its brand-new match engine. In a first for the series, the new infrastructure is built on the Unity engine, promising a revolutionary overhaul of the matchday experience. Leaked footage that surfaced online shortly before the official announcement had already given fans a glimpse of the significant leap in visual quality.

What’s New with the Unity Engine?

The new match engine introduces more fluid player movements, detailed animations, and a far more realistic on-pitch atmosphere. According to the development team, the switch to Unity brings several key enhancements:

Enhanced Player Movement: The movement and positioning of players on the field will be more fluid and lifelike than ever before.
Volumetric Animations: Leveraging data captured from real footballers, volumetric animations will deliver a more authentic experience, particularly in passing, shooting, and off-the-ball runs.
Detailed Graphics: The visual fidelity of stadiums, pitches, and player models has been significantly increased to create a richer and more immersive matchday atmosphere.

These improvements aim to allow managers to see their tactical vision translate more clearly onto the pitch and feel the drama of the match more intimately.

Football Manager 26 System Requirements

The game’s significant visual overhaul is also reflected in its updated system requirements. Here are the official PC specs shared by Sports Interactive:

Minimum:

OS: Windows 10 (22H2), Windows 11 (23H2)
Processor: Intel Core i3-530 or AMD FX-4100
Memory: 4 GB RAM
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960 or AMD Radeon R9 380 (512MB VRAM)
Storage: 20 GB available space

007 First Light: Gameplay, and Release Date Revealed for the New James Bond Game

G-Man — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 19:42:32 GMT

007 First Light James Bond Game IO Interactive

007 First Light: Gameplay, and Release Date Revealed for the New James Bond Game

G-Man

• September 3, 2025

IO Interactive, the developer behind the acclaimed Hitman series, has unveiled the first extensive gameplay footage and a wealth of new details for its long-awaited James Bond game, 007 First Light, during a State of Play presentation. The game, which will tell a completely original origin story for the iconic spy, is set to launch on March 27, 2026.

Gameplay Mechanics: Forge Your Own Bond

Developed on IO Interactive’s proprietary Glacier Engine, the game gives players the freedom to approach objectives in their own way. Whether you prefer to slip in unnoticed, go in guns blazing, or improvise with a mix of both, the choice is yours. The gameplay is built on four core pillars:

Spycraft: Your toolkit for the quieter side of the job. You can eavesdrop on conversations for intelligence, lift a keycard from a distracted guard’s pocket, or piece together clues from environmental details.
Instinct: A limited resource reflecting Bond’s quick thinking and adaptability. It refills as you complete objectives and allows you to lure guards, bluff your way past suspicious individuals, or slow down time for the perfect shot.
Q-Branch Gadgets: Essential tools for any mission. Hack a camera system, cut through a locked door with a laser, or distract a guard to slip by unnoticed.
Combat: A fluid blend of precision gunplay and brutal melee combat. You can throw enemies over railings, use nearby objects as weapons, and disarm foes in a single smooth motion. When things get lethal, Bond’s “Licence to Kill” activates, allowing him to use his expert marksmanship.

The gameplay deep dive showcased a variety of missions, from a tense chess tournament in Slovakia to a lavish gala in London, highlighting iconic Bond moments including high-speed car chases.

Meet the New James Bond: Patrick Gibson

One of the biggest reveals of the night was the cast. The role of the young James Bond will be played by actor Patrick Gibson. He’ll be joined by a talented ensemble cast:

Lennie James as Greenway (Bond’s mentor)
Priyanga Burford as M
Alastair Mackenzie as Q
Kiera Lester as Moneypenny
Noémie Nakai as Ms. Roth

Release Date and Pricing

007 First Light is scheduled for release on March 27, 2026, for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 5 Pro, Xbox, and PC.

The Xbox pre-order page is not yet live. Players who pre-order the game will receive a free upgrade to the Deluxe Edition at no additional cost.

Helldivers 2 Goes Underground with 'Into the Unjust' Update, But Inflates to 140 GB on PC

G-Man — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 08:07:10 GMT

Helldivers 2 Into the Unjust Helldivers 2 update

Helldivers 2 Goes Underground with 'Into the Unjust' Update, But Inflates to 140 GB on PC

G-Man

• September 2, 2025

Helldivers 2’s New Update, ‘Into the Unjust’, Takes the Fight Underground

The latest major update for Helldivers 2 has just dropped, and it’s a big one. Titled “Into the Unjust,” PATCH 01.004.000 introduces subterranean warfare, terrifying new enemies, and a host of crucial balance changes. A new Warbond is also set to follow in two days.

New Features and Missions

The update introduces a brand-new environment: Hive Worlds. These are massive, randomly-generated cave systems where players will confront the Terminid threat in claustrophobic tunnels. The caves are filled with new tactical elements, including acid lakes, advanced bug spires, and destructible walls. While you can call down Stratagems through openings in the ceiling, a flashlight is essential in the oppressive darkness.

New mission objectives include destroying the Spore Lung, a structure responsible for spreading the toxic “Gloom,” and defending the GATER mobile oil rig from relentless swarms.

New Enemies

Four new Terminid variants have been added to the bestiary:

Rupture Spewer: Bursts from the ground to spray corrosive acid.
Rupture Warrior: A mutated creature that avoids sunlight and prefers to burrow.
Rupture Charger: An armored beast that tunnels underground to launch high-speed assaults.
Dragonroach: A flying monstrosity that rains down acid from above, a true titan of the skies.

Balancing and Fixes

Alongside the new content, the Into the Unjust update delivers significant balancing and bug fixes. Non-explosive Orbital Stratagems like Orbital Smoke and Orbital E.M.S. have been buffed, while the stun mechanic has been reworked for greater consistency. The patch also addresses numerous crashes, audio bugs, and enemy pathfinding issues.

Key fixes include preventing Automatons from taking damage when deployed from dropships and improving pathing for citizens during city evacuation missions.

The Bloat Problem

For PC players, the update comes with a significant downside: the game’s file size has now ballooned to over 140 GB. This is a stark contrast to the 20-30 GB footprint on PlayStation 5. This growing issue is putting pressure on Arrowhead to address PC optimization. While the studio previously stated that a dedicated optimization patch wasn’t planned, the community backlash is mounting. Many players report that the game’s performance and stability on PC are deteriorating with each new patch, raising concerns about its long-term playability on the platform.

Cyberpunk Sequel 'Project Orion' Reveal on September 4th? CDPR's Cryptic Tease Sparks Speculation

EdgeTypE — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 15:52:15 GMT

Cyberpunk 2077 Project Orion Cyberpunk 2 release date

Cyberpunk Sequel 'Project Orion' Reveal on September 4th? CDPR's Cryptic Tease Sparks Speculation

EdgeTypE

• September 1, 2025

New Cyberpunk 2077 Development: Has a Date Been Set for “Project Orion”?

CD Projekt RED has sent the gaming community into a frenzy with a recent post on the official social media accounts for the popular video game Cyberpunk 2077. The cryptic message, pointing to September 4th, has ignited a wave of speculation about the future of the series.

A Call to Arms from the NUSA

The shared image features an official-looking announcement from President Myers of the New United States of America (NUSA), a key faction within the game’s universe. Dated September 4, 2025, the message calls for “brave netrunners” to combat a rising cybersecurity threat.

Loading Tweet...

What Should We Expect?

The true meaning of this mysterious announcement remains unclear. However, two prominent theories are currently circulating within the community:

A Surprise New DLC?: While CD Projekt RED had previously stated that Phantom Liberty would be the final expansion and that core development on the game had concluded, updates have continued to roll out. Development support was handed over to the studio Virtuos, and a few months ago, a Virtuos employee mentioned on their LinkedIn profile that they had begun working on a new Cyberpunk DLC.
The First Hint for Cyberpunk 2: The other major possibility is that this is the first official teaser for the highly anticipated sequel. It’s already been confirmed that a sequel, codenamed “Project Orion,” is in development. This tease could be the prelude to a short cinematic or a glimpse into the next chapter.

While both possibilities seem to contradict previous official statements, the evidence is compelling. Whatever CD Projekt RED has planned, all eyes will be on September 4th for the big reveal.

Battlefield 6 PC Specs Revealed! Minimum, Recommended, and Ultra Settings Detailed

Skyline — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 16:27:45 GMT

Battlefield 6 system requirements Battlefield 6 minimum specs Battlefield 6 recommended specs

Battlefield 6 PC Specs Revealed! Minimum, Recommended, and Ultra Settings Detailed

Skyline

• August 28, 2025

Battlefield 6 PC System Requirements and New Details Shared

EA has officially released the PC system requirements for the highly anticipated Battlefield 6. The detailed breakdown clarifies the hardware needed for minimum, recommended, and even ultra-level performance.

Battlefield 6 System Requirements

Minimum:

Target: 1080p @ 30 FPS (Low Settings)
GPU: NVIDIA RTX 2060 / AMD RX 5600 XT / Intel Arc A380
VRAM: 6 GB
CPU: Intel i5-8400 / AMD Ryzen 5 2600
RAM: 16 GB (2133 MHz)
Storage: 55 GB HDD

Ultra:

Target: 2160p (4K) @ 60 FPS (Ultra Settings) or 1440p @ 144 FPS (High Settings)
GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4080 / AMD RX 7900 XTX
VRAM: 16 GB
CPU: Intel i9-12900K / AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
RAM: 32 GB (4800 MHz)
Storage: 90 GB SSD

Battlefield Labs Is Reopening

DICE has announced the return of Battlefield Labs test sessions ahead of the game’s launch. These closed tests will be used to fine-tune game balance and test new features with direct player feedback.

The Server Browser will be available for players to test for the first time. It will launch with limited features, focusing on gathering feedback for accessibility and UI design.
New maps, including Operation Firestorm and Mirak Valley, will be introduced. These maps are designed to test large-scale vehicle combat and overall balance.
The official settings for Hardcore mode will be developed and finalized through community feedback gathered in Battlefield Labs.

Release Date

Battlefield 6 is scheduled to launch on October 10th. The development team plans to implement final balance and feature adjustments based on player feedback gathered in the lead-up to the release.

No Man's Sky is Revolutionized: Build and Crew Your Own Starship with Friends in the Voyagers Update!

G-Man, Skyline — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 12:14:45 GMT

No Mans Sky Voyagers Update Corvette Ships

No Man's Sky is Revolutionized: Build and Crew Your Own Starship with Friends in the Voyagers Update!

G-Man, Skyline

• August 27, 2025

No Man’s Sky Celebrates Its Ninth Year With One of Its Biggest Updates Ever: Voyagers!

For nine years since its 2016 launch, No Man’s Sky has continued to deliver a level of post-launch support rarely seen in the gaming industry, all through massive, free updates. Developer Hello Games is honoring that tradition by announcing Voyagers, a game-changing update that introduces perhaps the most requested feature to date: the ability to design and build our very own starships.

For years, one of the biggest dreams for No Man’s Sky players has been to move beyond searching for the perfect ship and instead create one from scratch. With the Voyagers update, that dream is now a reality.

Corvette-Class Ships: Your Dream Space Adventure Begins

At the heart of the update is a new ship class called the Corvette. These vessels are completely modular, allowing you to assemble a unique ship from hundreds of different parts—from the chassis and wings to the engines and cockpit. Whether you want to build a small and nimble exploration craft or a massive, intimidating warship, the choice is entirely yours.

Most excitingly, these ships are no longer just a cockpit. They feature fully explorable and customizable interiors. You can add modules like med-bays, living quarters, combat rooms, and even kitchens, turning your ship into a true home among the stars. Furthermore, with three distinct aesthetic themes available (Titan, Thunderbird, and Ambassador), you can decorate your ship’s interior to match your personal style.

Set Out with Friends: Multiplayer Crews

The new ships are set to overhaul the multiplayer experience. You can now invite your friends to join your ship as a crew and explore the universe together. Accept new multiplayer missions from your ship’s mission radar, and use your vessel as a mobile base of operations while you land on planets to complete objectives.

Pushing New Frontiers: Spacewalking and More

The Voyagers update isn’t just about ship construction. One of the most stunning new mechanics is spacewalking. You can now open your ship’s airlock and step directly into the void of space, floating around your vessel for an encounter with the cosmos like never before.

Other major additions include:

Atmospheric Skydiving: Park your ship in a planet’s atmosphere, open the hatch, and leap out for an epic freefall to the surface below.
Autopilot: Engage the autopilot for travel to space stations or planets, freeing you up to manage other tasks inside your ship during the journey.
New Expedition: A new, limited-time Expedition titled “Corvette” will guide players through building their first modular ship and offer exclusive rewards.
Graphical Enhancements: The game’s visuals have been further improved with the latest technologies, including NVIDIA DLSS 4 and PSSR for PlayStation VR2.

Hello Games noted that some of the technology developed for this update was also created for their highly anticipated new game, Light No Fire. This not only hints at an exciting future for No Man’s Sky but also showcases the incredible breadth of the development team’s vision.

To be delivering such a massive, feature-rich, and free update nine years after launch is a monumental achievement. Hello Games deserves all the praise once again.

Helldivers 2: Into the Unjust Update Announced, Bringing Subterranean Operations!

G-Man — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 06:26:47 GMT

Helldivers 2 Into the Unjust Helldivers 2 update

Helldivers 2: Into the Unjust Update Announced, Bringing Subterranean Operations!

G-Man

• August 27, 2025

The next major update for Helldivers 2, Into the Unjust, has been announced and is set to deploy on September 2. Following its recent and successful launch on Xbox, the game is now taking players into uncharted territory: the Terminid homeworlds.

Delving into the Gloom

The Into the Unjust update invites players to explore the “Gloom,” a mysterious fog shrouding the Terminid Hive Worlds. Helldivers will face new dangers among massive structures built by the Terminids and within the deep caverns beneath the planet’s surface.

These cave networks are home to a new entity called the “Hive Lung,” which is believed to produce the Gloom. Due to the enclosed nature of these caves, full support from your Super Destroyer will be unavailable, forcing squads to rely entirely on their gear and teamwork to survive.

New Enemies and Missions

The update unleashes new threats from both above and below:

Subterranean Threats: New variants of the Terminid Warrior, Bile Spewer, and Charger will burrow underground to ambush their prey, erupting from the surface when they get close.
Dragonroach: This new menace patrols the skies, diving on unsuspecting Helldivers and raining down burning bile.
Mobile Oil Rig Escort: Players will have to escort and defend a mobile oil rig as it traverses the treacherous terrain of the Hive Worlds.
Destroy the Hive Lung: To stop the spread of the Gloom, squads must venture deep into the caves to locate and destroy the Hive Lung.

New Warbond: Dust Devils

Deploying on September 4, the new “Dust Devils” Premium Warbond offers gear specifically designed for the harsh conditions of the Hive Worlds.

Weapons & Stratagems:
- AR-2 Coyote: A new assault rifle featuring incendiary rounds.
- G-7 Pineapple: A cluster fragmentation grenade.
- S-11 Speargun: Fires heavy-duty projectiles that release a cloud of gas on impact.
- EAT-700 Expendable Napalm: A single-use missile that delivers napalm cluster bombs.
- MS-11 Solo Silo: A Hellpod-sized silo containing a single, ultra-powerful missile controlled by a handheld targeting remote.
Armor & Cosmetics:
- The DS-42 Federation’s Blade and DS-191 Scorpion armor sets both feature the “Desert Stormer” passive, granting resistance to fire, gas, acid, and arc damage.
- The Warbond also includes new capes, player cards, an emote, a player title, and the “Rattlesnake” pattern for vehicles and Hellpods.

With its player base reinvigorated by the recent Xbox launch, Helldivers 2 is set to intensify the galactic fight for democracy with the “Into the Unjust” update on September 2 and the “Dust Devils” Warbond on September 4.

Helldivers 2 Deploys on Xbox, Bringing a Halo-Themed Warbond With It

G-Man — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 11:02:02 GMT

Helldivers 2 Xbox Halo

Helldivers 2 Deploys on Xbox, Bringing a Halo-Themed Warbond With It

G-Man

• August 26, 2025

The Console Wars Are Ending: Helldivers 2 Deploys on Xbox with Halo Gear

Spreading managed democracy to every corner of the galaxy, Helldivers 2 is finally landing on Xbox Series X|S after a long wait. The massively successful former PlayStation exclusive will arrive for Xbox players on August 26th, and it’s celebrating the launch with an iconic collaboration.

New Warbond: Helldivers 2 x Halo: ODST

In honor of the game’s Xbox debut, a new “Legendary Warbond” inspired by the Halo series, titled Helldivers 2 x Halo: ODST, will be added to the game. This special content pack will be available to all players, regardless of their platform.

Unlockable for 1500 Super Credits, this new Warbond comes with a higher price tag than the standard 1000-credit ones but is packed with more content. Here are the highlights of what’s inside:

Weapons:
- MA5C Assault Rifle: The iconic weapon from the Halo series.
- M7S SMG: A suppressed submachine gun, ideal for stealth operations.
- M90A Shotgun: A powerful option for delivering high damage at close range.
- M6C/SOCOM Pistol: Introducing the first sidearm to support suppressed gameplay in Helldivers 2.
Armor Sets and Passive Ability:
- Two new armor sets named A-9 Helljumper and A-35 Recon.
- These sets come with the new “Feet First” passive ability, which allows the character to move more quietly, grants immunity to leg injuries, and helps in spotting Points of Interest on the map from 30% further away.
Other Cosmetics:
- The pack also includes two new capes, player cards, the “Rookie” title, and a new vehicle pattern called “Mean Green.”

It’s Not Just Helldivers 2: Gears of War is Coming Too

In another major announcement today, Gears of War: Reloaded, a remake of the first game in one of Xbox’s most celebrated franchises, will be released simultaneously for Xbox, PC, and PlayStation 5. These moves signal that the era of console exclusivity in the gaming world is slowly coming to an end, as publishers look to expand their audiences by being present on more platforms.

The Long Wait is Over: Hollow Knight: Silksong Release Date Finally Announced!

Skyline — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 15:05:54 GMT

Hollow Knight Silksong Hollow Knight Silksong release date Hollow Knight Silksong Game Pass

The Long Wait is Over: Hollow Knight: Silksong Release Date Finally Announced!

Skyline

• August 21, 2025

Hollow Knight: Silksong Release Date Officially Revealed

The date fans have been waiting years for is finally here. Team Cherry has announced that the highly anticipated Hollow Knight: Silksong will be released on September 4, 2025. Furthermore, the game will be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one.

Silksong will be available for purchase on Steam, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and DRM-free on GOG and the Humble Bundle.

Hornet’s Journey

In this sequel, players will take control of Hornet, the princess-protector of Hallownest. Captured and brought to an unfamiliar land, Hornet must battle new foes and solve mysteries as she embarks on a deadly pilgrimage to the kingdom’s peak.

Silksong promises to expand on the first game’s award-winning formula, offering a vast new adventure filled with entirely new lands, powers, and formidable enemies.

Key Features

A Whole New Kingdom: Explore coral forests, mossy grottoes, gilded cities, and misted moors.
Over 150 New Foes: Face off against beasts, assassins, kings, and knights.
An Epic Score: The original game’s award-winning composer, Christopher Larkin, returns.
Silk Soul Mode: Once you conquer the game, test your skills in a brand-new mode that offers a unique, challenging experience.

Sony Hikes PlayStation 5 Prices in the US

Skyline — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 06:38:15 GMT

PlayStation 5 PS5 price PS5 price hike

Sony Hikes PlayStation 5 Prices in the US

Skyline

• August 21, 2025

PlayStation 5 Price Hiked in the US: The New Prices Are Here

Sony has officially announced a price increase for its lineup of PlayStation 5 consoles in the United States, effective as of August 21. The company is pointing to challenging global economic conditions as the primary driver behind the decision.

Old vs. New Prices (US)

Model	Old Price	New Price
PlayStation 5	$499.99	$549.99
PlayStation 5 Digital Ed.	$449.99	$499.99
PlayStation 5 Pro	$699.99	$749.99

Sony has confirmed that the prices for PS5 accessories will remain unchanged. For now, the company has stated that no further price adjustments are planned for markets outside of the United States.

This move is likely to stir debate among gamers, as the PlayStation 5 has already faced significant challenges with stock shortages and high demand since its launch, making the console difficult and costly to acquire.

All Games Announced at Gamescom 2025! Call of Duty Black Ops 7 and More!

Skyline — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 16:06:42 GMT

Gamescom 2025 Gamescom Opening Night Live gaming news

All Games Announced at Gamescom 2025! Call of Duty Black Ops 7 and More!

Skyline

• August 19, 2025

Highlights from Gamescom ONL 2025

Gamescom Opening Night Live 2025 delivered a wave of exciting announcements for the gaming world. From long-awaited sequels to brand-new IPs, here are the standout reveals and trailers:

Lords of the Fallen II

The popular Soulslike series returns with an official sequel announcement.

LEGO Batman: Legacy of The Dark Knight

LEGO and Batman team up once again in a brand-new entry.

Sekiro: No Defeat (Anime)

FromSoftware’s award-winning game is getting an anime adaptation.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7

A new trailer dropped, confirming a September 30 release.

Onimusha: Way of the Sword

A fresh trailer was showcased. The game is slated for a 2026 release.

Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War IV

The legendary strategy series makes its return with a new installment.

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle – The Order of Giants DLC

The DLC launches on September 4. Bethesda also confirmed the game will arrive on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026.

World of Tanks 2.0

The next installment in the franchise lands on September 1 in APAC, followed by September 3 in EU and NA regions.

Ninja Gaiden 4

A new trailer revealed the game’s release date: October 21, 2025.

John Carpenter’s Toxic Commando

A horror title from the legendary filmmaker John Carpenter was unveiled.

Deadpool VR

The latest trailer confirms a November 18 release, exclusively for Meta Quest 3 and 3S.

Silent Hill f

Konami confirmed a September 25 release date for the next entry in the Silent Hill franchise.

Cronos: The New Dawn

A brand-new trailer revealed the game will launch on September 5.

Europa Universalis V

Paradox revealed the next entry in its iconic grand strategy series with a cinematic trailer.

Age of Empires IV (PlayStation)

Xbox’s acclaimed strategy game is making its way to PlayStation.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II – Legacy of Forge DLC

The new DLC will be available on September 9.

The Outer Worlds 2

Obsidian’s beloved RPG series is officially getting a sequel.

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2

The long-awaited sequel finally has a release date: October 21.

World of Tanks: Heat

A brand-new entry joins the World of Tanks franchise.

Ninja Gaiden 4 (Story Trailer)

A new story trailer was revealed, reaffirming the October 21 launch.

Project Spectrum

From the creators of Delta Force comes a brand-new horror experience.

Ghost of Yotei

The latest trailer confirmed the game will release on October 2.

Resident Evil Requiem

Capcom revealed the next chapter in the series, launching on February 27, 2026.

Black Myth: Zhong Kui

A new addition to the Black Myth series was announced.

CS2 Update Drops Night Maps for Ancient and Shoots!

G-Man — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 20:46:19 GMT

CS2 Counter-Strike 2 CS2 update

CS2 Update Drops Night Maps for Ancient and Shoots!

G-Man

• August 14, 2025

Night Falls on CS2: Ancient and Shoots Maps Get an Overhaul

A new update for Counter-Strike 2 has introduced both visual upgrades and brand-new night versions for the popular maps Ancient and Shoots.

Map Updates

With this update, all materials on Ancient have been refreshed using the latest CS2 shaders. New blending options have also been added, allowing for effects like wetness and moss.

Both Ancient and Shoots now feature night versions. For now, the nighttime version of Ancient is only available in Casual and Deathmatch modes, while you can experience the nocturnal atmosphere of Shoots across all game modes.

New Cosmetics and Music Kits

The Deluge Music Kit Box, featuring tracks from artists like Adam Beyer, Ghost, HEALTH, and Killer Mike, is now available for purchase in both standard and StatTrak™ versions.

Additionally, the limited-time item in The Armory has been refreshed. The new M4A1-S | Solitude skin is now available for a limited time.

Animation and Performance Improvements

The update also brings several technical adjustments that directly impact gameplay:

Weapon Animations: The Sawed-off and XM1014 animations have been improved. Deploy and quick inspect animations for almost all knives, as well as for the AK-47, Galil, AUG, PP-Bizon, AWP, M4A4, and M4A1-S, have been made smoother.
Performance: Rendering performance has been improved across most maps.
Technical Fixes: Resolution and aspect ratio can now be changed in fullscreen windowed mode. Furthermore, the fps_max command can no longer be changed while connected to a server.

What do you think of the new night maps?

Doom: The Dark Ages Review

Skyline — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 11:01:59 GMT

Doom: The Dark Ages Doom: The Dark Ages review Doom: The Dark Ages review score

Doom: The Dark Ages Review

Skyline

• August 14, 2025

After years of watching our favorite Slayer chase demons through space stations, across the red sands of Mars, and into the very heart of Hell itself, seeing him suddenly appear with a shield, a cape, and a dragon… let’s just say I had to check if I was watching the right showcase. That first moment Doom: The Dark Ages was announced, it short-circuited all of our brains. What was id Software—the legendary studio that invented the FPS genre, resurrected it with Doom (2016), and perfected it with Doom Eternal—trying to tell us? What exactly was the message here?

Gaming-DB

Doom: The Dark Ages

I wasn't a believer at first, but id Software has forged a masterpiece. The shield is a brilliant addition to the formula.

pros

cons

Shield-based combat

Blistering fast-paced action

Underwhelming soundtrack (for a Doom game)

Pointless open-world elements

Doom (2016) was a revolution, re-teaching modern action games the philosophy of play aggressively, don’t be afraid, charge forward. Doom Eternal took that philosophy and transformed it into an incredibly deep action-puzzle where every enemy was a chess piece and resource management was an art form. They set the bar so high that the question on everyone’s mind was, How can they possibly top this? It seems that even id Software couldn’t find an answer, and instead chose to take the series in a new direction.

Slaying Demons in the Middle Ages

Forget the rusty metal corridors, the flashing emergency lights, and the labs echoing with the screams of scientists. Doom: The Dark Ages throws you into a completely different kind of nightmare. This is a world of colossal gothic cathedrals, castles adorned with bones, valleys carved by rivers of lava, and effigies of ancient, forgotten gods. At first, it feels almost like a parody. But slowly, you begin to acclimate to this brutal, medieval hellscape.

Gameplay

Improving on the gameplay of Doom Eternal seemed like an impossible task. So, rather than pushing the speed even further, id Software has opted for a controlled deceleration.

The game’s biggest innovation and by far its most successful element is, without a doubt, the shield. Normally, when you hear “shield” in a game, you expect to hold right-click, inch forward, and block attacks, right? But the Shield Saw in this game is less of a defensive tool and more of an offensive wrecking ball and a miniature teleporter.

The gameplay is incredibly fluid. You can hurl the shield at one enemy to stun them while simultaneously dashing into another horde of demons. Or, you can throw it at a distant foe and instantly warp to their location, playing a deadly game of “now you see me, now you don’t” across the battlefield. This mechanic keeps you constantly repositioning, making the combat unbelievably dynamic and enjoyable.

The shield isn’t just for throwing and warping. Blocking enemy attacks is also crucial. If you time a block perfectly against a special “green” attack, you can trigger one of four different abilities assigned to your shield, unleashing devastating counter-attacks. This system encourages the player to stay alert and play aggressively. In short, the core gameplay and combat mechanics are deeply satisfying and a hell of a lot of fun.

This entry also removes the “Glory Kill” finisher animations from the previous games. I was against this decision at first, but after playing, I realize it was a fantastic move. The finishers would pull you out of the action for a few seconds, turning you into a spectator. Now, you remain in constant control. It might not look as flashy in a trailer, but when you’re playing, it’s infinitely more engaging.

The Arsenal

Visually, the weapons are designed to fit the game’s universe, and each one looks appropriately formidable. However, you can comfortably finish almost the entire game using just a single weapon. Aside from a few specific enemy types, the game rarely forces you to switch weapons or change your strategy. This unfortunately wastes the potential of the diverse arsenal.

Even worse, the weapon upgrades are almost completely useless. The difference between a fully upgraded weapon and its base version is so minimal that you’re left wondering, “Why did I even bother?” I eventually stopped bothering with upgrades altogether. To get these meaningless upgrades, you have to spend time in the game’s newly added open-world segments, gathering resources. But if the upgrades are pointless, there’s no real reason to explore the open world. Frankly, in a Doom game, I have no desire to say, “Let me just pop over here and collect some ore from a secret tunnel.”

Of Dragons and Mechs

The dragons and mechs were heavily featured in the game’s marketing. In reality, these sections don’t have deeply developed gameplay; they’re more like polished mini-games. But personally, I loved them.

Hopping into a mech and squashing massive demons that would normally give you trouble like they were ants, demolishing buildings, and plowing through an entire army is genuinely exhilarating. This is the power fantasy at the core of Doom taken to its absolute zenith.

But let’s be honest, these segments are a break from the main gameplay loop. They’re a delicious side dish, not the main course. The foundation of the game is still the intense, boots-on-the-ground combat in tight corridors and sprawling arenas. The dragon and mech missions serve more as fun diversions to add variety than as core pillars of the experience.

Mick Gordon: We Need You Back

If I tried to explain how incredible Mick Gordon’s soundtracks for Doom 2016 and Eternal were, I’d probably write an article longer than everything else ever published on this site combined. However, due to some well-publicized issues between id Software and Mick Gordon during Eternal’s development, we don’t get to hear his work in the new game.

The new music certainly isn’t bad, but it’s not the kind of stuff you’ll be blasting on repeat like the previous soundtracks. I still listen to the music from the original Doom from 1993. The Dark Ages, however, fails to add anything memorable to the series’ legendary musical legacy; it barely even feels like a cheap imitation.

Doom 1993 had “E1M1,” Doom 2016 had “BFG Division,” and Doom Eternal had “The Only Thing They Fear Is You.” Doom: The Dark Ages has nothing on that level. It’s rare for me to remember the name of a video game track. But I know the names of almost every single song from Doom 2016 and Eternal.

For that reason, the new game’s soundtrack left me unsatisfied. It’s not bad, but Doom music was always the best of the best.

The Verdict

Ultimately, Doom: The Dark Ages is a high-quality game that preserves the series’ dynamic and fast-paced gameplay while successfully steering it in a fresh direction. I was blown away by the dynamism the shield adds to combat. I’m not personally a huge fan of the medieval theme, but the game’s atmosphere and art design are beautiful. If you don’t hate first-person shooters, this is a game you absolutely must play. Barring any surprises, this will be the best FPS of the year. (Though I can hear the rumblings of the next Battlefield on the horizon.)

Gaming-DB

Doom: The Dark Ages

I wasn't a believer at first, but id Software has forged a masterpiece. The shield is a brilliant addition to the formula.

pros

cons

Shield-based combat

Blistering fast-paced action

Underwhelming soundtrack (for a Doom game)

Pointless open-world elements

Remedy Provides Updates on Max Payne Remake, Control 2, and FBC: Firebreak

Skyline — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 08:54:18 GMT

Control 2 FBC: Firebreak Max Payne remake

Remedy Provides Updates on Max Payne Remake, Control 2, and FBC: Firebreak

Skyline

• August 12, 2025

Remedy Shares Development Status on Control 2, Max Payne Remake, and FBC: Firebreak

Finnish developer Remedy Entertainment has shared its progress and future plans from the first half of 2025. The company’s focus remains on advancing its current projects and strengthening its strategy of self-publishing its own titles.

Control 2 is on Track

Development for Control 2 is progressing as planned toward its next milestones. The current focus is on gameplay, environments, and mission structures. Remedy emphasized that the team is working hard to ensure the sequel becomes a strong commercial success.

Max Payne 1 & 2 Remake in Full Production

The Max Payne 1 & 2 remake, developed in collaboration with Rockstar Games, is now in full production. The project maintained steady momentum through the second quarter of 2025 and aims to update the classic for a modern audience while preserving the original atmosphere that fans cherish.

FBC: Firebreak

Remedy’s first self-published title, FBC: Firebreak, was released on June 17th. The three-player co-op FPS had a technically successful launch, reaching 1 million players in its first 10 days—a milestone likely bolstered by its inclusion in subscription services. However, the game failed to meet expectations on Steam, drawing criticism for its mission structure and onboarding experience. Player sentiment has reportedly improved following a series of updates.The development team is planning a major update for late September and has stated its commitment to expanding the game over time.

Control Surpasses 5 Million Sales

Released in 2019, Control continues to be one of Remedy’s most successful titles, having sold over 5 million copies. The full rights to the franchise were transferred to Remedy this year (previously held by 505 Games), and the company is now driving the game’s performance with its own sales campaigns.

In an era of downsizing across the games industry, it seems that while things aren’t perfect for Remedy, they are certainly looking up.

When Does the Battlefield 6 Beta End? Dates and Times Revealed

Skyline — Sun, 10 Aug 2025 15:21:56 GMT

Battlefield 6 BF6 Battlefield 6 beta

When Does the Battlefield 6 Beta End? Dates and Times Revealed

Skyline

• August 10, 2025

Battlefield 6 Open Beta Dates and End Times Announced

The biggest open beta yet for the highly anticipated Battlefield 6 is now live, available to players across two separate weekends. The beta is packed with new maps and modes for players to dive into.

Beta Schedule

The open beta will be live during the weekends across a two-week period.

First Weekend: August 9 - 11

Starts: August 9, 2025
Ends: August 11, 2025, at 8:00 AM GMT / 1:00 AM PT

During the first weekend, players can battle it out on the Siege of Cairo, Liberation Peak, and Iberian Offensive maps. Playable modes include popular choices like Conquest, Breakthrough, Domination, and King of The Hill.

Second Weekend: August 14 - 17

Starts: August 14, 2025, at 8:00 AM GMT / 1:00 AM PT
Ends: August 17, 2025, at 8:00 AM GMT / 1:00 AM PT

The second weekend will feature all content from the first, with the addition of the Empire State map, plus the Rush and Squad Deathmatch modes.

Players who participate in the beta can look forward to various in-game progression challenges and rewards.

Have you had a chance to play the Battlefield 6 beta? If so, what are your thoughts? Let us know what you think in the comments below!

Mafia: The Old Country is Out: Here Are the First Review Scores

Skyline — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 14:53:21 GMT

Mafia: The Old Country Mafia review scores

Mafia: The Old Country is Out: Here Are the First Review Scores

Skyline

• August 7, 2025

Mafia: The Old Country Has Launched: Here Are the First Review Scores

The highly anticipated new installment in the Mafia series, “Mafia: The Old Country,” was released on August 8, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S. Coinciding with its launch, the first wave of review scores from the gaming press has been shared.

A Mixed Reception

The game has received a generally mixed reception from critics. As it stands, the title holds a Metascore of 76 and an OpenCritic score of 79, with a wide range of scores coming from various outlets.

Notable Scores:

SECTOR.sk: 9.5 / 10
DualShockers: 8.5 / 10
Checkpoint Gaming: 8.5 / 10
Wccftech: 8 / 10
IGN Spain: 8 / 10
GameSpot: 6 / 10
Stevivor: 5 / 10

“Mafia: The Old Country” transports players to the dangerous and unforgiving atmosphere of Sicily. The story follows a character named Enzo Favara as he struggles to prove himself to the Cosa Nostra. Unfortunately, we haven’t had the chance to review the game ourselves yet. As soon as we get our hands on it, you can expect our full review to be right here on gaming-db.com.

August Game Pass Lineup: Assassin's Creed Mirage and More

G-Man — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 13:51:53 GMT

game pass august 2025 game pass new games assassins creed mirage game pass

August Game Pass Lineup: Assassin's Creed Mirage and More

G-Man

• August 5, 2025

August Game Pass Additions Revealed!

Microsoft has announced the new games hitting the Game Pass library this August. Fan favorites like Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Rain World, and 9 Kings are set to join the lineup, giving players plenty to dive into.

Upcoming Games

August 6

Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector (Xbox Series X|S): Step into the shoes of a fugitive android with a glitchy body and no memories of your past in this dice-based RPG, fighting to survive.
Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders (Xbox Series X|S): The snowy sequel to Lonely Mountains: Downhill.
MechWarrior 5: Clans (Xbox Series X|S): A mech action game where you pilot massive robots in explosive battles.
Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap (Xbox Series X|S): A third-person shooter and trap-defense hybrid. Team up with up to four players in co-op to wipe out hordes of orcs.

August 7

Assassin’s Creed Mirage (Cloud, Console, and PC) arrives on Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass, set in ninth-century Baghdad. Follow Basim, a clever street thief, as he joins the mysterious Hidden Ones and evolves into a lethal Master Assassin.

August 12

Aliens: Fireteam Elite (Cloud, Console, and PC) is making a comeback to the Game Pass library. This third-person survival shooter in the iconic Alien universe pits your marine squad against the relentless Xenomorph menace.

August 14

9 Kings (Game Preview) (PC) joins PC Game Pass as a fast-paced roguelike kingdom-builder. Expand your empire and clash in massive battles against rival kings.

Games Leaving

On August 15, these titles will exit the Game Pass library:

Anthem (Console and PC) EA Play
Farming Simulator 22 (Cloud, Console, and PC)
Persona 3 Reload (Cloud, Console, and PC)

Additional Content and Updates

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II Enhanced: Arriving August 12 with performance mode and new features.

Which game are you most hyped for this month?

Mafia: The Old Country PC System Requirements Revealed!

G-Man — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 18:27:32 GMT

Mafia The Old Country system requirements Mafia The Old Country new Mafia game

Mafia: The Old Country PC System Requirements Revealed!

G-Man

• July 31, 2025

Hangar 13 and 2K have officially revealed the PC system requirements and technical features for the highly anticipated new installment, Mafia: The Old Country. Set in 1900s Sicily, the game is poised to impress with both its atmosphere and visual fidelity. The developers have detailed the necessary hardware across three tiers—minimum, recommended, and epic—to ensure players can fully experience the historical setting.

The PC version is designed to offer players all the bells and whistles of modern technology. While cinematics will be capped at 30 FPS, gameplay will feature an uncapped framerate option. Additionally, the game will support upscaling technologies like FSR and DLSS.

In an era where game sizes frequently exceed 100 GB, Mafia: The Old Country comes in at a surprisingly lean 55 GB.

Mafia: The Old Country System Requirements

Minimum System Requirements (1080p / Medium Settings)

Even the game’s minimum specs are quite demanding.

CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 2700X / Intel Core i7-9700K
Memory: 16 GB RAM
Graphics: AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT / NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070
Video Memory: 8 GB
Target: 1920x1080 / Medium / TSR Upscaling: Balanced

Recommended System Requirements (1440p / High Settings)

The hardware recommended to experience Mafia: The Old Country with its intended graphical quality and performance:

CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5800X / Intel Core i7-12700K
Memory: 32 GB RAM
Graphics: AMD Radeon RX 6950 XT / NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti
Video Memory: 12 GB
Target: 2560x1440 / High / TSR Upscaling: Quality

Epic System Requirements (4K / Epic Settings)

For owners of high-end PCs who want to experience the captivating atmosphere of Sicily with the absolute best visual fidelity:

CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 9700X / Intel Core i7-14700K
Memory: 32 GB RAM
Graphics: AMD Radeon RX 9070 / NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti
Video Memory: 12 GB
Target: 2880x1620 (75% of 4K) / Epic / TSR Upscaling: Quality

Mafia: The Old Country, which delves into the roots of the Mafia saga, is set to launch for players on August 8, 2025.

Major CS2 Update: All Animations Overhauled, Maps Reworked

G-Man — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 19:12:05 GMT

Counter-Strike 2 CS2 CS2 update

Major CS2 Update: All Animations Overhauled, Maps Reworked

G-Man

• July 28, 2025

Massive Animation and Map Overhaul Drops for Counter-Strike 2

Valve has just released a major update for its popular tactical shooter, Counter-Strike 2, set to fundamentally alter the player experience. The new patch introduces a complete overhaul of all first-person animations and brings significant changes to several key maps.

All Animations Overhauled

The centerpiece of this update is the transition to a new animation system called AnimGraph2. As part of this migration, every first-person animation in the game has been re-authored. Now, actions like deploying, firing, reloading, and inspecting weapons feature much more modern and fluid animations. Oh, and the chicken animations have been updated, too.

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Gameplay and Audio Enhancements

Alongside the visual refresh, some important gameplay adjustments have been made:

Improvements to damage prediction when shooting while on the move.
Shotgun reloads will no longer automatically resume after being interrupted.
Fixed several cases where players could get stuck on map geometry while on surf maps.
On the audio front, a bug preventing individual player voice volume adjustments from working correctly has been fixed. Additionally, various improvements have been made to weapon draw and reload sounds to align with the AnimGraph2 updates.

Key Map Changes

The update brings a slate of tactical tweaks to Overpass, Train, and Inferno.

Overpass: Breakable glass has been added to the B site doors, and the angle of the truck on A site has been adjusted.
Train: New cover has been added on A site near “Hell” and on the B site platform.
Inferno: The windows in “Church” above “Coffins” have been opened up, creating new sightlines, and visuals in “Banana” have been adjusted to improve player legibility.

Dying Light: The Beast Delayed, New September Release Date Announced

G-Man — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 14:01:27 GMT

Dying Light: The Beast release date delay

Dying Light: The Beast Delayed, New September Release Date Announced

G-Man

• July 25, 2025

Dying Light: The Beast Delayed: New Release Date Announced

The release of Dying Light: The Beast, the highly anticipated new game from developer Techland, has been pushed back. Originally slated for an August 22 launch, the game will now be released on September 19, 2025, according to an official statement.

Developer Techland: “We Need a Little More Time”

Developer Techland explained the reason behind the delay, citing a need to “fine-tune” and add more “polish” based on valuable feedback from recent playtests and preview events. The studio stated this extra four-week period will be used to address the final details that “make all the difference between a good and a great game.”

The development team is specifically targeting improvements in the following areas:

Balancing gameplay mechanics
Improving the clarity of the user interface (UI)
Enhancing the quality of the physics engine
Refining cutscenes and player animations for better fluidity

Delay Comes Despite Positive Reception

Techland noted that the game has been previewed over 150 times by press and content creators, receiving overwhelmingly positive comments like “nail-biting survival horror” and a “project with a soul.” Despite this glowing feedback, the studio stressed that they made the decision to honor their promise to deliver the best possible Dying Light experience to the fans.

To keep players engaged during the wait, the studio announced that regular updates will be shared throughout the summer, and a playable demo will be available at Gamescom.

Battlefield 6 Announced: Watch the First Trailer and Get All the Details

G-Man — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 16:15:27 GMT

Battlefield 6 new Battlefield Battlefield 6 trailer

Battlefield 6 Announced: Watch the First Trailer and Get All the Details

G-Man

• July 24, 2025

Battlefield 6’s First Trailer is Here: All-Out Warfare is Back!

After a long period of anticipation, Electronic Arts has dropped the first official reveal trailer for Battlefield 6. The action-packed trailer showcases the series’ signature large-scale warfare, intense combat, and next-level destruction mechanics. It also brings the welcome news that the series’ single-player campaign is making a return—a feature that was notably absent from its predecessor, Battlefield 2042.

A New Threat: Pax Armata

The trailer introduces players to a new foe bringing the world to the brink of global conflict: Pax Armata. This private military corporation, funded by former NATO states, operates under the slogan “Our Protection, Your Peace.” However, their true objective is to dismantle NATO and its allies, plunging the world into chaos. The trailer kicks off with the US President condemning a “monstrous and unprovoked” attack, followed by devastating scenes of warfare in iconic locations like New York City.

Advanced Destruction and All-Out Warfare

Environmental destruction, a beloved staple of the Battlefield series, is being taken to the next level. The trailer showcases players tearing down walls, toppling entire buildings, and dynamically altering the battlefield to gain a tactical advantage. The large-scale conflicts, featuring tanks, fighter jets, and helicopters, aim to redefine the series’ “all-out warfare” experience. The developers emphasize that in this chaotic environment, the deadliest weapon will be your own squad.

All Eyes on the Multiplayer Reveal

We won’t have to wait long for more details. The development team has announced a major multiplayer reveal event scheduled for July 31, 2025. The event, which will be broadcast live on YouTube and Twitch, will be the first to showcase the game’s new and returning modes, “jaw-dropping” maps, and many other features. We’ll be covering the event live and will bring you all the highlights as they happen.

Release Date

EA hasn’t officially announced a release date, but speculation points towards a potential launch on October 10, 2025.

A United Development Force: Battlefield Studios

The new installment is being developed by Battlefield Studios, a unified team comprising some of the best developers in the FPS genre. This collective includes studios like Criterion Games, DICE, Motive Studio, and Ripple Effect. It remains to be seen if this powerhouse collective can deliver a hit.

Battlefield 6 Reveal Date is Official! First Trailer is Imminent

Skyline — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 21:30:48 GMT

Battlefield 6 BF6 EA

Battlefield 6 Reveal Date is Official! First Trailer is Imminent

Skyline

• July 22, 2025

The Official Reveal Date for Battlefield 6 is Locked In

After months of rampant leaks and speculation, Electronic Arts (EA) has finally announced the official reveal date for the next Battlefield title. According to their social media announcement, Battlefield 6 will be officially unveiled with a trailer on Thursday, July 24th.

The End of Leaks and Speculation

The game’s title, Battlefield 6, was all but confirmed recently when a gift package featuring the game’s logo was leaked online. Previously, rumors pointed to a special EA event on July 31st for the big reveal. However, EA’s latest announcement has put all speculation to rest, confirming the imminent date.

A New Game, A New Approach

Following the community’s disappointment with the last installment, Battlefield 2042, EA is reportedly adopting a more transparent development process. Multiple EA studios have been collaborating on the game, which has been in closed testing since March. These studios are aiming to create an interconnected “Battlefield universe” set in the modern day.

While the game is rumored to launch by March 2026, there is also talk of an open beta scheduled for August, following the initial reveal on July 24th.

Bad News for Rematch: Core Features Like Crossplay and Player Reporting Are Still Months Away

Skyline — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 18:32:35 GMT

Rematch Rematch game Rematch soccer game

Bad News for Rematch: Core Features Like Crossplay and Player Reporting Are Still Months Away

Skyline

• July 18, 2025

Expected Rematch Features Delayed Yet Again: Crossplay and Reporting Still 6-9 Weeks Out

After four years in development, Rematch launched last month to a rocky start, plagued by connection issues, matchmaking problems, and a general lack of stability. While the development team has rolled out daily hotfixes to address some of the immediate fires, players’ patience is wearing thin over the absence of many fundamental features.

No Crossplay or Reporting Before September

According to a recent developer announcement, core features that are considered standard in any modern multiplayer game—such as crossplay and a player reporting system—are still 6-9 weeks away, likely arriving in September. It was stated that the team is trying to get these features ready for the game’s Season 1 launch.

The current lack of a player reporting system makes it impossible to penalize toxic behavior. While the developers acknowledge this shortcoming, they confirmed the system will only be implemented alongside crossplay.

The Competitive Ranking System Remains Controversial

The game’s ranking system operates on the Openskill algorithm, which focuses on balancing the average skill level of teams. However, this often results in significant skill disparities between individual players on the same team, leading to a “carrier” problem. Players are complaining that even if matches appear balanced on paper, they are often saddled with much less-skilled teammates.

Furthermore, the inability to de-rank from one league to another (e.g., from Gold down to Silver) dampens the competitive spirit. The development team has noted they are planning to address this as well.

Limited Improvements for Gamepad and M&KB Players

The upcoming patch was announced to contain only minor fixes. This patch will include:

Gamepad remapping options,
Accessibility options for colorblindness,
A handful of bug fixes.

These are relatively minor updates, and crucial needs for keyboard and mouse players, such as aim sensitivity settings, haven’t even made it into this next patch.

Competitive 3v3 and 4v4 Modes on Hold

A clear timeline was not provided for the highly requested competitive 3v3 and 4v4 modes. The developers expressed concern that introducing these modes could “split the player base.” Therefore, the current plan is to add only one new competitive mode for the time being.

Server and Latency Issues

The developers also acknowledged significant problems with the server infrastructure. High latency (ping) is a recurring complaint, especially in regions like South America and the Middle East. The team announced they will attempt to resolve this with routing optimizations and by deploying new servers in the affected regions.

Conclusion: A Launch Riddled with Shortcomings

The Rematch development team insists they are passionate about the project and are frequent players themselves. However, these messages of sincerity do little to compensate for the game’s glaring omissions. For a game that has been out for over a month to still lack crossplay, reporting, varied competitive modes, and proper balancing, a release under an “Early Access” tag might have spared it from such intense criticism.

The game has potential, but the developers shouldn’t test the patience of their players any further if they hope to realize it.

➡️ For a deep dive into the game, check out our detailed review:👉 https://gaming-db.com/reviews/rematch/

Mecha-Shooter EXOMECHA Re-emerges After 5 Years with New Trailer, Release Window

EdgeTypE, G-Man — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 13:12:01 GMT

EXOMECHA TwistedRed FPS

Mecha-Shooter EXOMECHA Re-emerges After 5 Years with New Trailer, Release Window

EdgeTypE, G-Man

• July 17, 2025

Mecha-Shooter EXOMECHA Breaks 5-Year Silence with a New Trailer

First announced back in 2020 as a free-to-play title before falling completely off the radar, the sci-fi FPS EXOMECHA has resurfaced with a brand-new trailer. Developer TwistedRed also shared some key details about the game’s new direction.

In a significant pivot, EXOMECHA has dropped its previously announced free-to-play model. Citing the high costs of launching and maintaining online games without a publisher, the development team announced the game will now launch with a $19.99 price tag.

Originally a solo-dev project, the team has expanded to five members over the past few years. To help fund the final stages of development, a Kickstarter campaign has also been launched.

The game is scheduled for release in the first quarter of 2026 for PC (via Steam and the Epic Games Store), Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.

What is EXOMECHA?

EXOMECHA is an online sci-fi shooter set on OMECHA, an untouched and exotic planet. The game promises a blend of infantry, vehicular, and, of course, massive mech combat. The announced game modes include:

Conquest: A team-based 20v20 battle featuring vehicular combat.
Mecha Royale: A 100-player battle royale where you start as an infantry soldier and must survive long enough to call in your own EXOMECHA for the final showdown.

EXOMECHA first caught our eye years ago with its impressive visuals, and it continues to look striking in the latest footage. You can support the developers by wishlisting the game on Steam, the Epic Games Store, or the Xbox Store.

Counter-Strike Season 3 Kicks Off: Overpass Returns, CT Economy Overhauled

G-Man — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 03:00:37 GMT

Counter-Strike 2 CS2 Season 3 end date CS2

Counter-Strike Season 3 Kicks Off: Overpass Returns, CT Economy Overhauled

G-Man

• July 16, 2025

Valve has announced the launch of the third Premier Season for its popular shooter, Counter-Strike. With the new season, players can expect a rank reset, a major change to the map pool, and various tweaks to game mechanics. Additionally, a new security feature has been added to help protect player inventories.

Active Duty Map Pool Updated: Overpass In, Anubis Out

One of the most significant changes this season is the shake-up in the Active Duty Map Pool. Overpass, a long-time staple of competitive CS:GO, has been reintroduced with the latest update. In its place, Anubis, which has been in the pool since November 2022, has been removed from the rotation. This move marks the first change to the competitive map pool since the beginning of the year. As an Aurora fan, this change is a bit of a letdown. Anubis was always our best map, and our run on it earlier this year was incredible.

Gameplay-Defining Changes

Season Three doesn’t just alter the map pool; it also introduces some key updates that affect the game’s core dynamics:

Economy Update: The Counter-Terrorist (CT) side has received a new economic adjustment. Now, win or lose, CTs will receive a shared team reward of $50 for each Terrorist (T) player eliminated in the round. This change is aimed at balancing the CT economy, especially during close losses.
Weapon and Equipment Adjustments:
- Incendiary Grenade: The fire from the CT’s Incendiary Grenade now spreads faster, allowing for more effective area denial against rushing Ts.
- MP9: The popular SMG, the MP9, has been nerfed. Its recoil is now harder to control, and its jumping accuracy has been significantly reduced.

New Security Measure: Trade Reversals

Valve has rolled out a new feature called “Trade Protected Items” to enhance the security of player accounts and their valuable inventories. With this system, users who lose control of their account or fall victim to a scam can reverse all Counter-Strike item trades made within the last 7 days. This feature can be accessed from the “Trade History” page on their Steam account.

The Grind for the Season Three Medal Begins

As with every season, players will once again be grinding to earn a Season Three medal. The color of the medal will correspond to the highest CS Rating achieved during the season, and bars will be added for every 25 Premier match wins. To be eligible, you’ll need an account in good standing, 25 Premier match wins, and an active CS Rating at the end of the season.

When Will Season 3 End?

Valve hasn’t officially announced an end date for the season. Season 1 ran from September 27, 2023, to January 29, 2025—lasting about a year and a half. Season 2, in contrast, lasted for six months. It’s likely that Valve is trying to align the seasons with the Majors. Therefore, I speculate that the season will conclude after the Budapest Major, likely around late December 2025 or early January 2026.

Helldivers 2's New Patch Rebalances Weapons and Fixes Major Bugs!

G-Man — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 15:13:18 GMT

Helldivers 2 Helldivers 2 new patch Helldivers 2 update

Helldivers 2's New Patch Rebalances Weapons and Fixes Major Bugs!

G-Man

• July 15, 2025

New Balance-Focused Patch Arrives for Helldivers 2: Here Are the Highlights

Arrowhead Game Studios has rolled out patch 01.003.200 for the popular co-op shooter Helldivers 2, focusing on balance adjustments and bug fixes. This update addresses many community-reported issues, most notably the status effect bug—what developers called “network wonk”—which caused players to take far more damage than intended in multiplayer modes.

⚖️ General Gameplay and Balancing Changes

The patch introduces significant changes aimed at improving the overall gameplay experience:

Status Effect Fix: A critical bug that caused status effects (like fire and stun) to apply more damage than intended in multiplayer sessions has been resolved. This was done specifically to balance the experience between solo and co-op play.
Faster Recovery: The time it takes for a Helldiver to regain control after being ragdolled by explosions has been reduced from 0.8 to 0.5 seconds.
More Lethal Chest Injuries: Bleed damage from chest injuries has been significantly increased. The previous value was so low it appeared to have no effect. Now, these injuries are much deadlier.
A Pointier Flag: The beloved cosmetic, the CQC-1 One True Flag, can now be planted directly into enemies, dead or alive. For Democracy!

💥 Weapon and Equipment Updates

The main focus of this patch was weapon balancing to compensate for previous status effect fixes and to make certain equipment more viable.

Stun Weapons Get a Major Buff

The effectiveness of stun weapons like the AR-32 Pacifier and SMG-72 Pummeler has been increased. The stun duration for these weapons has been doubled from 1.5 to 3 seconds, and the stun value they apply to enemies has been boosted. The Pacifier also gets an increased magazine capacity.
The ARC-12 Blitzer has also seen a slight increase in the stun value it applies to enemies.

Grenades and Bayonets

G-109 Urchin (Sticky Stun Grenade): Can now stick to and stagger large, armored enemies like the Bile Titan.
G-10 & G-13 Incendiary Grenades: The amount of fuel has been increased, resulting in longer-lasting fire on the ground.
Bayonets: The stagger strength of the bayonets on the R-2124 Constitution and R-2 Amendment rifles has been increased, making them more effective than a standard melee punch.

Turrets and More

A/FLAM-40 Flame Sentry: Is now 95% more resistant to its own flames, and its cooldown has been reduced from 150 to 100 seconds.
Hellpod Boosters: The Firebomb and Stun Pod boosters now add their effects on top of the standard Hellpod explosion, rather than replacing it, making their impact more consistent.

🐛 Enemy Changes and Bug Fixes

Large Enemies: It’s now easier to set large enemies like Bile Titans and Hulks on fire.
Scout Strider: The leg armor has been decreased from Medium to Light, allowing many standard weapons to damage its legs.
The “Ssplootch” Effect: The damage threshold required for smaller enemies like Warriors to explode without leaving a corpse (what players lovingly call “splootching”) has been increased, making this a rarer occurrence.

In addition, numerous bugs have been fixed, including Stratagems not working correctly on Terminate Illegal Broadcast objectives, enemy pathing issues in certain missions, and getting stuck unarmed after exiting the chat.

Rematch Review

EdgeTypE — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 14:01:59 GMT

Rematch Rematch review Rematch game review

Rematch Review

EdgeTypE

• July 14, 2025

Rematch is a football game. When you think of a football game, you probably imagine an isometric view, like watching a match on TV, where you manage the entire team as an omniscient strategist. Rematch is not that.

Gaming-DB

Rematch

If it had launched in Early Access, we could have praised its potential. But in its current state, it's nothing more than a shameful mess of code.

pros

cons

Play as a single footballer

Server issues

No chat system

Numerous technical problems and bugs

Poor optimization

You control a single footballer. This isn’t a completely original idea. There are plenty of games like this that feel like school projects made on a shoestring budget, but they are, quite frankly, all pretty low quality. Rematch is a game in this genre made by a major studio. You might know Sloclap, the developers behind Sifu, the acrobatic martial arts game. In fact, the visual aesthetics of the two games are very similar.Whether Rematch is a quality game is debatable, but it is fun. At least, we had fun playing it.

The core idea of the game is great, but everything is just so broken. This game needed at least another six months in development. It’s plagued with bugs. Balls getting stuck in the ground, goalkeepers carrying the ball out of the penalty box, games crashing after a goal, servers dying every other match… the list is endless.

When the game first came out, we played it relentlessly. But with every passing hour, the flaws became more and more apparent. In the beginning, while the novelty was still fresh, the bugs weren’t as obvious. You’d fail to steal the ball and think, “I must have done something wrong.” But once you learn the game, you realize there’s a dumpster fire of a codebase running in the background, and that’s the real reason for all the nonsense.

Every part of the game is broken.It’s obvious this game isn’t finished. I don’t know if they ran out of money during development or what, but the game is in a disastrous state. We’ve seen a lot of broken games at launch recently, but this is different. This game is simply incomplete.

There isn’t even a text chat. You can’t type to your teammates or your opponents. There’s voice chat to talk to your team, but there’s no push-to-talk. Your mic is either always on or always off. So some guy joins the lobby, and it sounds like a helicopter is taking off in his background.

Long before launch, they promised crossplay. But forget crossplay between consoles; you can’t even play between Steam and PC Game Pass. Just a few days before release, after people had already pre-ordered, they announced they couldn’t get crossplay ready in time and that it would come in a future update.

Right now, the only reason this game is being played is the sheer fun of playing football as an individual. In our friend group, everyone lives in a different part of the country. So how are we supposed to get together for a kickabout? Well, this game gives you that opportunity. It doesn’t do anything else right. And in my opinion, it’s not worth the price. The game launched at $30 USD.

If you’re going to buy it, get it with your friends. This game is not meant to be played solo. In fact, if possible, don’t even queue up without a full squad. The game has three modes: 3v3, 4v4, and 5v5. For example, if you’re a party of three, avoid queuing for 4v4. You’re likely to get a random idiot on your team who completely ruins the experience.

Rematch could become a great game in the future if its shortcomings are addressed and development continues. For now, however, it’s an experience that’s fun for the first few hours but quickly turns into torture. And it’s not just torture for you; it’s torture for your PC. There’s nothing in the game that looks graphically demanding, but the moment you launch it, your PC’s fans start spinning like helicopter rotors. It makes you wonder if it’s secretly mining Bitcoin in the background; the system resource consumption is absurd.

Sometimes the game freezes when you score a goal, and after a while, it just crashes. Tackling and dribbling are a complete crapshoot. The controls, especially with a keyboard and mouse, feel awkward and clunky. So you launch the game, invite your friends, and try to get into a match. You probably won’t get in on the first try. Every time we tried to play a competitive match, it took us 3-4 attempts to finally get in. Someone always disconnects as the match is starting, and the game is cancelled. Speaking of cancelling, it just reminded me. Let’s say you’re searching for a match, and your friend suddenly says, “Cancel the search, I’ll be back in 2 minutes.” You can’t cancel the search. There is a cancel button, but I’ve yet to see it actually work. The game doesn’t even have its own reporting system. When you click the report button, it just opens the other player’s Steam profile. What is Steam supposed to do about that?

If this game had launched in Early Access, I could have given it an 8 out of 10 for its promise. As it stands now, it barely scrapes a 6 out of 10.

Gaming-DB

Rematch

If it had launched in Early Access, we could have praised its potential. But in its current state, it's nothing more than a shameful mess of code.

pros

cons

Play as a single footballer

Server issues

No chat system

Numerous technical problems and bugs

Poor optimization

You can watch this review in video format below.

Microsoft to Lay Off 9,100 Employees, Xbox Division Faces Significant Cuts

G-Man — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 10:46:44 GMT

Microsoft Xbox layoffs

Microsoft to Lay Off 9,100 Employees, Xbox Division Faces Significant Cuts

G-Man

• July 2, 2025

Another Wave of Major Layoffs at Microsoft Hits Xbox Division

Microsoft has announced another round in its ongoing series of mass layoffs for 2025. According to the company’s statement, up to 9,100 employees are being let go. This figure represents approximately 4% of Microsoft’s global workforce of around 228,000.

The Microsoft Gaming and Xbox departments have been significantly impacted by these layoffs. However, the exact breakdown of which teams are affected and by how much has not yet been clarified.

Shake-Up at Xbox: “We are ending or reducing work in some areas”

In an internal memo sent to employees, Head of Xbox Phil Spencer stated the following:

“To prepare the Gaming division for long-term success and to focus on strategic growth areas, we are ending or reducing work in some business lines. We also aim to increase agility and efficiency by simplifying management layers.”

Spencer emphasized that these decisions had to be made during a period when player numbers, engagement, and content planning are at historic highs. However, he noted that “difficult decisions must be made today to ensure continued success in the years to come.”

A Continuation of Cuts Since 2024

This latest move is the most recent in a series of workforce reductions, which includes the layoff of 1,900 employees from Activision Blizzard and Xbox in January 2024, the complete closure of several studios in May, the dismissal of 1,000 employees from the HoloLens and Azure teams in June, and the reduction of 650 roles within the Xbox division in September.

Official Statement from Microsoft

The company provided a formal explanation for the changes:

“We continue to implement the necessary organizational and workforce adjustments to prepare the company and our teams for success in a dynamic market.”

This process was described as part of Microsoft’s broader strategy of organizational streamlining and focus. The HR department will provide affected employees with benefits such as severance pay, health insurance, and outplacement support. It was also announced that these individuals would be given priority consideration for open positions within the company.

This is a Developing Story

More details on which departments are most affected by the layoffs are expected to be released in the coming days. For now, the available information strongly suggests that the gaming division is one of the hardest-hit areas.

For Microsoft, 2025 is shaping up to be a year defined by both the broader downturn in the gaming industry and the company’s own internal process of realigning its priorities.

Minecraft is Getting Copper Armor and the Long-Awaited Copper Golem!

G-Man — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 17:43:45 GMT

Minecraft Copper Golem Minecraft update

Minecraft is Getting Copper Armor and the Long-Awaited Copper Golem!

G-Man

• July 1, 2025

The Long-Awaited Copper Golem and New Items Are Coming to Minecraft

Minecraft’s developers have just announced a suite of new copper-themed features coming to the game. Headlining the update is the one and only Copper Golem, a fan-favorite mob that, despite winning players’ hearts, famously lost a mob vote years ago.

The Golem’s Comeback: A New Purpose

After losing the 2021 mob vote, the Copper Golem is being added to the game by popular demand, now with a brand-new function. This little guy will help players organize their bases. It will be able to pick up items from a designated Copper Chest and automatically distribute them to other nearby chests, creating an ingenious automated sorting system.

Copper Gets a Major Upgrade

But the update isn’t just about the golem. Players will now be able to craft entire new sets of armor, tools, and weapons from copper. This change finally makes copper—an ore that’s plentiful in the early game but has historically had limited uses—a far more valuable and functional resource.

When Can We Play?

All of these newly announced features—the Copper Golem, Copper Chest, Copper Armor, and Tools—are available for testing right now in the latest beta and preview builds for Minecraft Bedrock Edition. As for Java Edition players, Mojang has confirmed the features will be coming in a future snapshot update.

The Best Minecraft Seeds (1.21.6)

EdgeTypE — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 14:43:42 GMT

Minecraft seed Minecraft 1.21.6 seed best Minecraft seeds

The Best Minecraft Seeds (1.21.6)

EdgeTypE

• June 27, 2025

In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of exceptional Minecraft seeds for the latest 1.21.6 update. If you’re hunting for the perfect world to kick off your next adventure, one of these is sure to catch your eye.

Seed: 24524214216

This seed spawns you in a swamp, right next to a frozen ocean. Beneath the ice, you’ll find an ocean monument, conveniently located next to a shipwreck at coordinates (-328 ~ -232).

Seed: 100000019873386049

Credit: r/minecraftseeds, Connors3462

You’ll spawn on a mountain with a lush cave located directly beneath your feet. Dig straight down, and you’ll drop into a mineshaft. This seed is a convergence of several biomes, and you’ll also find a village at coordinates 320 ~ 208.

Seed: 100000277727846192

Credit: r/minecraftseeds, Connors3462

Spawn directly inside a village. Look around, and you’ll realize it’s not just one, but four villages merged together. Head towards coordinates (+200, -200), and you’ll be greeted by a small cherry blossom biome.

Seed: -2032795982907864146

Credit: r/minecraftseeds, person_onyx

This seed drops you onto the slope of a valley encircled by mountains crowned with cherry blossoms. A serene lake sits in the center, with a village waiting for you on the opposite shore.

Seed: -4066157545494351064

Credit: r/minecraftseeds, amynase

How about a survival challenge on a massive desert island? This world is dotted with numerous villages and desert temples, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a single tree. It’s a tough start that redefines the game’s most basic challenges, promising a truly unique adventure.

Seed: 2800096416986572871

Credit: r/minecraftseeds, ZennithMc

Load into this world, and you’ll find yourself in a village perched atop a mountain. A quick look around reveals the twist: you’re on a tiny island comprised of four interconnected villages.

Seed: -3109752165729791431

Credit: r/minecraftseeds, ZennithMc, Doogie8876

Finding a Woodland Mansion is usually a major undertaking in Minecraft, as they often spawn thousands of blocks from your starting point. This seed, however, places two of them practically on top of each other, right at spawn.

What is a Minecraft Seed?

A Brief Definition

In Minecraft, a “seed” is a specific sequence of numbers or characters used to generate a world. Each seed creates a unique landscape—the mountains, valleys, oceans, villages, and even structures are all determined by this code.

Its Impact and Importance in the Game

Your choice of seed directly impacts your starting point, surrounding biomes, and available resources. A well-chosen seed can provide a significant advantage for players who want a strong start or those who prioritize exploration.

First Gameplay Trailer for Resident Evil Requiem Drops

Skyline — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 08:16:19 GMT

Resident Evil Requiem Resident Evil Requiem release date Resident Evil Requiem gameplay video

First Gameplay Trailer for Resident Evil Requiem Drops

Skyline

• June 27, 2025

Capcom Shares First Gameplay Footage for Resident Evil Requiem

Capcom has just dropped the first gameplay trailer for Resident Evil Requiem, and it looks like a chilling return to form. The footage reveals that players can seamlessly switch between first-person and third-person camera perspectives. With a heavy emphasis on a terrifying atmosphere, the gameplay strongly signals a return to the series’ survival horror roots.

Meet the New Protagonist: Grace Ashcroft

Requiem introduces a new protagonist, Grace Ashcroft, who might be familiar to lore hounds: she’s the daughter of Alyssa Ashcroft from Resident Evil Outbreak. Grace, an FBI analyst, finds herself investigating a series of mysterious deaths occurring 30 years after the destruction of Raccoon City. This setup not only weaves a new narrative into the franchise but also forges a direct link to its storied past.

Grace is intentionally designed to be inexperienced in combat, introverted, and easily frightened. The idea is for the player’s own fear to be directly mirrored by the protagonist. According to Director Koshi Nakanishi, players will watch Grace grow stronger and more capable as the game progresses. This character arc aims to offer a different kind of experience, moving away from the hardened heroes of previous installments.

“Grace is frightened at first, but she finds her courage over time. It was very important for us to have a character who grows alongside the player.”

Interestingly, Leon S. Kennedy was initially considered for the lead role. However, the team ultimately decided to go with a new face. The reason is pretty straightforward:

“Nobody would believe Leon being scared of anything anymore.”

The game supports both first-person and third-person perspectives. This dual-camera system allows players to switch on the fly, offering the intense immersion of first-person and the superior situational awareness of third-person.

A Return to Raccoon City

Set roughly 30 years after the destruction of Raccoon City, Resident Evil Requiem’s release is timed to coincide with the franchise’s 30th anniversary. The game aims to be a thematic and narrative homage to the series’ legacy. With this project, Capcom is looking to breathe fresh air into the franchise while staying true to what made it a phenomenon.

Release Date and Demo

The game is slated for release on February 27, 2026, for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Fans eager to get their hands on it won’t have to wait that long, however, as a playable demo is set to be released during Gamescom on August 20, 2025.

Hytale Cancelled: Hypixel Studios Shutting Down!

Skyline — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 17:09:21 GMT

Hytale Hytale cancelled Hypixel Studios

Hytale Cancelled: Hypixel Studios Shutting Down!

Skyline

• June 23, 2025

Hytale Cancelled After 7 Years of Development

The road has come to an end for Hytale, the Minecraft-like game announced to much fanfare in 2018. Hypixel Studios has confirmed that the long-in-development title is officially cancelled, and the studio itself will be shutting down completely in the coming months.

“This Wasn’t an Easy Decision”

In a heartfelt announcement, Hypixel Studios co-founder Noxy explained that after years of dedicated work, Hytale simply couldn’t reach a state that would meet the team’s – or the community’s – expectations. The studio had explored various avenues to keep the project afloat, including extending timelines, reducing its scope, and considering different development paths. However, Noxy stated that all these potential solutions would have required compromising the core vision that made Hytale special.

Over the years, our vision and the genre itself evolved. Our technical ambitions grew. Despite rebuilding the game engine from scratch, Hytale just couldn’t get to where it needed to be.

Hypixel Servers Unaffected

The announcement stressed one crucial point: the popular Hypixel Minecraft server will remain unaffected by this decision. The Hypixel server operates independently from Hypixel Studios and will continue its services as usual, reassuring its massive player base.

Riot Games’ Backing Wasn’t Enough

Hypixel Studios was acquired by Riot Games back in 2020. Throughout this period, Riot provided support, including assistance in trying to find new investors or a potential buyer for the project. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, a viable path forward to complete and launch Hytale couldn’t be secured.

A Farewell to the Community

Hytale had cultivated an enormous and passionate fanbase since its initial reveal, largely due to its promise of a rich experience blending extensive mod support, boundless creative freedom, and deep RPG elements. However, a combination of a prolonged development cycle, the ever-shifting landscape of the gaming industry, and persistent technical challenges ultimately prevented this ambitious dream from coming to fruition.

Hytale will be remembered in gaming history as a poignant example of an indie project that began with immense dreams but navigated a profoundly difficult path. Though the closure of Hypixel Studios turns this page, it leaves behind a saga that will undoubtedly leave its mark on the gaming world. For many, including this writer, Hytale’s lasting impact might just be how it arguably pushed Mojang to finally deliver Minecraft’s major Caves & Cliffs update.

Steam Support is Coming to the Xbox App!

Skyline, G-Man — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 15:38:01 GMT

xbox steam Xbox Xbox June Update

Steam Support is Coming to the Xbox App!

Skyline, G-Man

• June 23, 2025

Xbox is here with its June update, rolling out a host of new features set to enrich the player experience on both PC and console. Key highlights include the Copilot for Gaming feature beginning testing on mobile devices, an aggregated game library, dynamic interface customizations, and the expansion of the Retro Classics collection for older titles.

🎮 A New Era for PC Gamers: The Aggregated Library

The most eye-catching innovation in this update is the aggregated game library added to the Xbox app on PC. Thanks to this feature, games from various platforms like Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net, and Steam can now be managed from a single interface. When a player installs a game from a supported store, it will automatically appear in the “My Library” section of the Xbox app. This allows players to access all their games from one central hub, eliminating the need to juggle multiple launchers.

🧠 Copilot for Gaming: Your Personal Gaming Assistant, Now in Testing

Testing has begun for Copilot on the Xbox mobile app, an AI assistant designed to guide players during gameplay. Currently available in beta for iOS and Android users, it allows players to ask questions about their current game, receive tips, or access tutorial videos.

The Copilot feature is also slated to go live on the ROG Ally handheld console by the end of the year.

🖥️ The Dawn of the Aggregated Game Library on PC

The “Aggregated Gaming Library” has started testing on Windows 11 and portable Xbox devices. This feature consolidates games installed from stores such as Xbox, Game Pass, Steam, and Battle.net into a single interface within the Xbox app.

Now, users with multiple gaming platforms can conveniently access their titles from different storefronts all in one place. This functionality is expected to be fully active on ROG Ally and ROG Ally X devices by year’s end.

🎛️ Enhanced Customization for the Console Interface

On Xbox consoles, the “Recently played” list is now more customizable. Players can hide system applications, pin their favorite games, and reduce the number of tiles displayed. These changes have been introduced to provide a cleaner, more personalized Xbox interface.

📊 New Game Hubs and Cloud Save Management

The Game Hub feature, which showcases achievements, friend statistics, and add-on content for selected games, is now available to all players. Additionally, improvements to the cloud save system mean that for unsynchronized save files, details like device name, timestamp, and a progress bar can now be displayed.

🕹️ Mouse and Touch Support Expanding

With the new update, several Xbox games now offer mouse and keyboard support. Key titles receiving this support this year include:

Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Smite 2, Zenless Zone Zero, Planet Zoo: Console Edition, Planet Coaster 2

For mobile gamers, new titles supporting touch controls include Avowed, Zenless Zone Zero, and Metaphor: ReFantazio.

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Review Scores Are In!

Skyline — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 12:19:38 GMT

Death Stranding 2 Death Stranding 2 On the Beach Death Stranding 2 review

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Review Scores Are In!

Skyline

• June 23, 2025

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Review Scores Have Landed!

The first wave of review scores for Hideo Kojima’s highly anticipated new title, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, has hit the gaming world. And it looks like the consensus is overwhelmingly positive. The game has made a strong debut, averaging an impressive 88 on both OpenCritic and Metacritic. For context, the first game in the series hovered around the 82-83 mark.

Here are some of the standout review scores:

OpenCritic Average Score: 88
MetaCritic Average Score: 88

Detailed Score Breakdown:

Critical Hits: 100
Dexerto: 100
Gaming Nexus: 10 / 10
IGN Brasil: 100
Loot Level Chill: 100
MeuPlayStation: 100
Nexus Hub: 10 / 10
Pizza Fria: 10 / 10
PlayStation LifeStyle: 10 / 10
Press Start Australia: 100
Push Square: 100
Radio Times: 100
Screen Rant: 100
TechRadar Gaming: 100
TierraGamer: 100
Toisto: 100
Too Much Gaming: 5 / 5
VGC: 100
Voxel: 100
WellPlayed: 100
CD-Action: 95
ComingSoon net: 9.5 / 10
PSX Brasil: 95
SavePoint Gaming: 9.5 / 10
Areajugones: 92
Hobby Consolas: 92
IGN Benelux: 92
Vandal: 92
But Why Tho?: 90
CGMagazine: 90
Console Creatures: 9 / 10
GamePro Germany: 90
Gamekult: 90
Gamereactor UK: 90
GamersRD: 90
Gamersky: 90
IGN: 90
IGN Adria: 90
IGN Deutschland: 90
INVEN: 90
Inverse: 90
Kakuchopurei: 90 / 100
One More Game: 9 / 10
Oyungezer: 90
Quest Daily: 9 / 10
Sirus Gaming: 9 / 10
The Games Machine: 90
VideoGamer: 90
Worth Playing: 9 / 10
XGN: 90
Merlin’in Kazanı: 87 / 100
Atarita: 86 / 100
Combo Infinito: 85
Enternity gr: 8.5 / 10
SECTOR sk: 85
Digital Trends: 80
Gamereactor Spain: 80
GamesRadar+: 80
KonsoliFIN: 80
Siliconera: 80
TheSixthAxis: 80
Restart run: 60

The vast majority of scores indicate that Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is a successful sequel, building upon its predecessor in terms of both narrative and gameplay mechanics. It’s shaping up to be one of the PlayStation 5’s most ambitious releases of the year.

Unfortunately, we at gaming-db.com haven’t had a chance to play it yet – we’re a bit short on PS5s in the office! If you’re interested in writing a review for us, feel free to reach out via our contact page.

Sony Confirms: The PS5 Has Officially Taken the Crown from the PS4!

G-Man — Sun, 15 Jun 2025 10:05:29 GMT

PlayStation 5 PS5 PS4

Sony Confirms: The PS5 Has Officially Taken the Crown from the PS4!

G-Man

• June 15, 2025

Sony Confirms: The PS5 Has Officially Taken the Crown from the PS4!

During a recent presentation, Sony announced a major milestone for the PlayStation world. In terms of monthly active users, the PlayStation 5 has now officially surpassed its legendary older brother, the PlayStation 4. This development shows that the new-gen console has finally hit the mainstream and that a majority of players have made the switch.

Looking at the numbers, the PlayStation Network boasts a total of 124 million monthly active users, and the biggest slice of that pie now belongs to PS5 players. This isn’t just a victory in user count; it’s also a financial success. According to information shared in the presentation, PS5 players are spending significantly more money compared to PS4 players.

Per-Player Spending (PS5): $846
Per-Player Spending (PS4): $669

This gap comes primarily from digital game sales, add-on content, and service subscriptions like PlayStation Plus. Sony attributes this to the fact that the PS5 era is already the most profitable generation in PlayStation’s history.

What’s the Secret to This Success?

The biggest factor behind Sony’s momentum seems to be its two-pronged gaming strategy:

Blockbuster Single-Player Games: Following huge successes like Spider-Man 2, upcoming titles like Ghost of Yotei and Wolverine continue to draw players to the console.
Live Service Games: The incredible success of Helldivers 2 proved Sony’s potential in this space. They’re set to strengthen their presence with upcoming games like Marathon and Fairgames.

In short, the PS5 generation is now full steam ahead. Having hit the top in terms of both player count and profitability, it looks like Sony is ready to shift into a higher gear and keep the momentum going.

R6 Siege X Launches Today: Operation Daybreak, System Specs, and All You Need to Know!

G-Man — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 14:30:41 GMT

R6 Siege X Rainbow Six Siege R6 New Season

R6 Siege X Launches Today: Operation Daybreak, System Specs, and All You Need to Know!

G-Man

• June 10, 2025

Rainbow Six Siege’s New Era Begins: R6 Siege X Launches Today!

Ubisoft’s popular tactical shooter, Rainbow Six Siege, is ushering in a major transformation with R6 Siege X, launching today across all platforms alongside Season 2, “Operation Daybreak.” This new era introduces significant updates and innovations to the game, while ensuring all existing player progression is preserved.

Maintenance Schedule and Release Details

The R6 Siege X update will become accessible on all platforms following a maintenance period scheduled to begin on June 10, 2025, at 14:00 GMT. The maintenance is expected to last approximately 90 minutes (though, if past Ubisoft launches are anything to go by, perhaps keep a drink handy). Maintenance is currently underway.

Platforms and Important Notes

R6 Siege X is launching on PC (via Ubisoft Connect, Epic Games Store, and Steam), PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One. Ubisoft+ subscribers will also have access to the new version.

However, it’s been confirmed that the newly added “Dual Front” game mode will not be supported on previous-generation consoles, namely PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.

Information for Existing Players

All players who have played the game before June 10th will have their existing progression, operators, and inventory seamlessly transferred to the new version. To thank long-standing players, Ubisoft has announced they will be distributing “Veteran Rewards,” with tiers increasing based on how long players have owned the game. These rewards will be automatically added to inventories upon logging in after the maintenance.

Updated System Requirements and Patch Sizes

With the launch of R6 Siege X, there are also updates to the game’s system requirements and console performance targets.

PC System Requirements

Minimum (1080p @ 60 FPS):
- CPU: AMD Ryzen3 3100 / Intel i3 8100
- GPU: NVIDIA GTX 1650 4GB / AMD RX 5500XT 4GB / INTEL ARC A380 6GB
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 65 GB SSD
High (1080p/1440p @ 120 FPS):
- CPU: AMD Ryzen5 3600 / Intel i5 10400
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 2060 6GB / AMD RX 6600 8GB
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 65 GB SSD
Ultra (2160p @ 120 FPS):
- CPU: AMD Ryzen5 5600X / Intel i5-11600K
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4070 Ti Super 16GB / AMD RX 7900 XT 20GB
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 110 GB SSD

Console Performance Targets

PlayStation 5 / Pro & Xbox Series X:
- Performance Mode: 2160p @ 120 FPS
- Quality Mode: 2160p @ 60 FPS
Xbox Series S:
- Performance Mode: 1080p @ 120 FPS
- Quality Mode: 1728p @ 60 FPS

Download Sizes

The download sizes for the update across different platforms are as follows:

PC (Ubisoft Connect): 51.9 GB (totaling 91.53 GB with Ultra HD textures)
PC (Steam): 51.9 GB (with an additional 39.1 GB for Ultra HD textures)
Xbox Series X|S: 57.6 GB
Xbox One: 37.6 GB
PlayStation 5: 41.37 GB
PlayStation 4: 48.63 GB

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Officially Unveiled – Treyarch Spearheading Development, Raven Software Confirmed for New Co-op Story Mode

G-Man — Sun, 08 Jun 2025 18:22:28 GMT

Call of Duty Black Ops 7 Call of Duty Black Ops 7

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Officially Unveiled – Treyarch Spearheading Development, Raven Software Confirmed for New Co-op Story Mode

G-Man

• June 8, 2025

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Officially Revealed!

The Xbox Games Showcase just dropped a bombshell: Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 has been officially revealed. Set in the near future, this new installment serves as a direct sequel to the fan-favorite Black Ops 2 and is being helmed by series veterans Treyarch. Adding to the excitement, Raven Software is confirmed to be developing a dedicated co-op story mode specifically for this title.

Xbox Games Showcase 2025 Recap: All Games, New Hardware, and Release Dates!

G-Man — Sun, 08 Jun 2025 17:30:22 GMT

Xbox Games Showcase 2025 Xbox games new Xbox games

Xbox Games Showcase 2025 Recap: All Games, New Hardware, and Release Dates!

G-Man

• June 8, 2025

Xbox Games Showcase 2025: Every Announcement and Release Date

The Xbox Games Showcase 2025 just wrapped, and it was a whirlwind of exciting reveals! We’ve compiled every game announcement, trailer, and release date update right here. Bookmark this page to stay in the loop with all the Xbox goodness.

The Outer Worlds 2 is set to release on October 29th.
Super Meat Boy 3D has been announced. It’s slated for release in early 2026.
High on Life 2 was announced. Coming this winter.
Ninja Gaiden 4 will be released on October 21st.
The Order of Giants DLC for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle will launch on September 4th.
An Xbox handheld console has been announced.
A new trailer for The Blood of Dawnwalker was shown.
Don’t Nod’s new game, Aphelion, has been announced. It’s scheduled for release in 2026.
Mudang: Two Hearts was announced. Coming in 2026.
A new trailer for Cronos: The New Dawn was released.
Persona 4 Revival has been announced.
A gameplay trailer for Gears of War Reloaded was showcased.
Planet of Lana II: Children of the Leaf has been announced.
Invincible VS was announced. Set for a 2026 release.
FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE is coming to Xbox.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 has been announced.

What was your standout game from the showcase? Drop your favorites in the comments below and let us know!

The Expanse: Osiris Reborn Announced – Dive into a New Space-Faring Action RPG from Owlcat Games

Skyline — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 18:08:51 GMT

The Expanse game Osiris Reborn The Expanse: Osiris Reborn

The Expanse: Osiris Reborn Announced – Dive into a New Space-Faring Action RPG from Owlcat Games

Skyline

• June 7, 2025

**A New Chapter in The Expanse Universe: Osiris Reborn Announced**

Owlcat Games, the studio acclaimed for Warhammer 40K: Rogue Trader, is now charting a course for The Expanse universe. During the Future Games Show, the developers officially pulled back the curtain on their new title: The Expanse: Osiris Reborn.

Not a Hero, But a Hired Gun

Osiris Reborn promises a sci-fi action-RPG experience set in the gritty reality of The Expanse, played from a third-person perspective. Players will step into the well-worn boots of a mercenary operating under the banner of Pinkwater Security. The story kicks off with what’s supposed to be a brief shore leave on the Eros asteroid, but quickly spirals into a system-wide conspiracy. Your prime directive? Survive, rally your crew, and carve out your own destiny amidst the chaos.

You’re the Captain: Your Choices Will Ripple Through the System

Players can forge their own captain, choosing from Earther, Martian, or Belter origins. Alongside a crew, each member boasting their own distinct backgrounds and baggage, you’ll navigate treacherous political currents, tackle high-stakes missions, and confront deadly adversaries.

These characters aren’t just combat support; they’re individuals grappling with their own traumas, loyalties, and hidden agendas. Your decisions in-game will directly shape these relationships – sometimes earning unwavering loyalty, other times causing friendships to fray and break.

Tactical Combat, Real-Time Commands

The combat system is geared towards action, blending cover-based gunplay with the strategic deployment of special abilities. On field missions, you’ll bring two squadmates into the fray, while others might provide remote support – disabling enemy systems or creating crucial diversions. Issuing real-time commands to adapt your tactics to the ever-changing battlefield will be paramount to your survival.

Ganymede, Mars, Ceres, and Beyond

Throughout your journey, you’ll visit iconic and beloved locations from The Expanse universe, including Ganymede, Ceres, Mars, and Luna. You’ll explore dilapidated habitats, politically charged stations simmering with conflict, and tangled webs of interstellar relationships, all while unearthing clues that could shift the very course of events.

Each region tells its own story. Some lay bare a crumbling order, while others are more adept at concealing the chaos roiling beneath the surface. Don’t be surprised if you encounter a familiar face or voice – a stark reminder of just how interconnected this vast universe can be.

When Can We Expect It?

As of now, a firm release date for The Expanse: Osiris Reborn hasn’t been announced.

Summer Game Fest 2025: Every Game Revealed and Showcased

Skyline (Translated by G-Man for gaming-db.com) — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 18:38:12 GMT

summer game fest summer game fest 2025 sgf 2025

Summer Game Fest 2025: Every Game Revealed and Showcased

Skyline (Translated by G-Man for gaming-db.com)

• June 6, 2025

🎮 Summer Game Fest 2025: All The Big Announcements & Trailers

Summer Game Fest has officially kicked off, lighting up the gaming world with a barrage of announcements! We’re on deck, bringing you a comprehensive list of every game announced and showcased throughout the event. Keep this page bookmarked – we’ll be updating it live!

📌 Freshly Announced & Showcased Titles

Mortal Shell II is coming! Prepare to die again in 2026.
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Death Stranding 2: On the Beach got a new, mind-bending trailer. Kojima, as always, is marching to the beat of his own drum.
Chronicle Medieval was announced. This one’s giving off strong Mount & Blade: Warband vibes and is slated for Early Access in 2026.
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Sonic Racing CrossWorlds speeds onto the scene September 25th! Get this: it features crossover characters from the Yakuza and Minecraft universes.
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Code Vein II has been officially announced. Prepare for more anime-souls action!
Atomic Heart II is confirmed! Get ready for another trip to a bizarre, alt-history Soviet Union.
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Onimusha: Way of the Sword unsheathed a brand new trailer.
Game of Thrones: War for Westeros has been announced. It’s a real-time strategy game set in the tumultuous lands of Westeros.
ARC Raiders is set to launch on October 30th. The sci-fi shooter showed off some intense action.
Hitman: World of Assassination is getting a notorious new target: Mads Mikkelsen’s iconic villain Le Chiffre joins the fray.
Stranger Than Heaven revealed! This is the new project from RGG Studio, previously teased as Project Century.
After years of silence, the highly anticipated horror title ILL finally resurfaced with a chilling new video.
Resident Evil 9: Requiem is official! Capcom’s flagship horror series continues its first-person perspective and introduces a brand-new protagonist.

So, which of these Summer Game Fest 2025 reveals got you most hyped? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

Black Myth: Wukong Finally Hits Xbox – A Full Year After Initial Launch!

G-Man — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 06:41:46 GMT

Black Myth Wukong Xbox Black Myth Wukong release date Xbox Series S optimization

Black Myth: Wukong Finally Hits Xbox – A Full Year After Initial Launch!

G-Man

• June 6, 2025

Black Myth: Wukong Finally Headed to Xbox — But Questions Linger

After a year of anticipation (and some frustration for Xbox players!), the highly-awaited Black Myth: Wukong is finally confirmed for the Xbox platform. The Xbox version is set to launch on August 20, 2025. This date notably marks the one-year anniversary of its initial release on PS5 and PC.

The Series S Scapegoat?

Developer Game Science initially pointed fingers at the Xbox Series S’s technical limitations as the reason for last year’s delay of the Xbox version. The studio claimed the game couldn’t achieve the desired quality standards on the less powerful console.

However, this explanation soon became muddied by conflicting statements. Whispers from the Xbox camp suggested the delay wasn’t hardware-related at all, but rather stemmed from a potential platform exclusivity deal. PlayStation, for its part, flatly denied any such exclusive agreement, dismissing these allegations. The real reason remains a topic of much debate among gamers.

First-Ever Sale and Xbox Pre-Orders Kick Off June 18th

Alongside the Xbox release news, Game Science has announced the game’s first-ever discount campaign across all platforms. This sale is scheduled to begin on June 18th (GMT +0), the same day Xbox pre-orders go live. The exact discount percentage, however, remains under wraps for now.

We’ll be keeping a close eye on this one, folks. Stay tuned to gaming-db.com for further updates on Black Myth: Wukong as they drop.

State of Play June 2025: Pragmata Re-emerges, Silent Hill f Gets a Date, and All The Big Reveals!

Skyline — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 21:22:13 GMT

State of Play June 2025 PS5 Games 2025 Silent Hill f release date

State of Play June 2025: Pragmata Re-emerges, Silent Hill f Gets a Date, and All The Big Reveals!

Skyline

• June 4, 2025

Key Announcements from the June 5th, 2025 State of Play Showcase

Sony’s State of Play on June 5th, 2025, (that’s June 5th, 2025 – the event itself was broadcast globally, with timestamps for specific airings varying by region; our article timestamps are in GMT+0) brought a slew of fresh reveals. From long-lost projects resurfacing to eagerly awaited titles finally getting release dates, there was plenty to unpack. Here are the major highlights that caught our eye:

🔹 Pragmata Re-Emerges After Years of Silence

Capcom’s enigmatic sci-fi project, Pragmata, has finally broken its long silence with a brand-new gameplay trailer. While it’s clear the game is still deep in development, a 2026 release window was confirmed. Check out the latest footage below:

🔹 Silent Hill f Secures a Release Date

Konami’s fresh take on the Silent Hill universe, Silent Hill f, has finally locked in its launch. Mark your calendars: the game is set to release on September 25th, 2025. Infused with Japanese horror elements, this title promises a distinctly different atmosphere compared to previous entries in the iconic series.

🔹 Digimon Story: Time Stranger Revealed

Great news for Digimon fans! A brand new title, Digimon Story: Time Stranger, is heading to PS5. The announcement came with a debut trailer and a confirmed release date: October 3rd, 2025. Get your first look here:

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles will be released on September 30.
Baby Steps will be released on September 8.
Bloodstained: The Scarlet has been announced.
Lumines Arise will be released in Fall 2025.
Hirogami will be released on September 8.
Everybody’s Golf: Hot Shots will be released on September 5.
Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection will be released in 2025.
Metal Gear Solid 3 Delta: Snake Eater will be released on August 28.
Nioh 3 will be released in early 2026.
Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound will be released on July 31.
Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow has been announced.
Cairn will be released on November 5.
007: First Light has been announced.
A detailed gameplay reveal for Ghost of Yotei is scheduled for July.
Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls will be released on PS5 and PC in 2026.

Did you enjoy the event? Which game caught your attention the most?

No Man's Sky 'Beacon' Update Has Landed! Here's What's New

Skyline — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:35:43 GMT

No Man's Sky No Man's Sky Beacon No Man's Sky 5.7

No Man's Sky 'Beacon' Update Has Landed! Here's What's New

Skyline

• June 4, 2025

No Man’s Sky ‘Beacon (5.7)’ Update Lets You Build Deeper Galactic Empires!

Hello Games has just rolled out a colossal update for their ever-expanding space exploration epic, No Man’s Sky, dubbed Beacon (5.7). This patch doesn’t just tinker; it significantly deepens existing game mechanics, with a major focus on settlement management, the introduction of a mysterious new race, and crucial cross-platform enhancements. Travellers, get ready to expand your planetary empires with more options and intricate details than ever before.

Rule Over Multiple Colonies: Expanded Settlement Management

One of the standout features of the Beacon update is the ability for players to now become the Overseer of up to four different settlements. This opens up the strategic challenge of managing multiple towns across diverse planets, each with its unique inhabitants, challenges, and potential.

Detailed Management Missions: Each settlement will now have its own distinctly named management mission, with specific details about its status available in the Mission Log.
Retirement Option: Stepping down as Overseer of a settlement is now possible.
Sentinel Threat Balancing: Managing multiple settlements will distribute the Sentinel alert level among them, meaning the number of attacks requiring player attention won’t increase proportionally with the number of settlements managed.

Settlement Classification, Resource Production, and Buildings Revamped

The core functionality of settlements has been overhauled, offering players greater strategic depth and control:

Reworked Classification: The algorithm determining settlement class has been completely reworked and rebalanced. Veteran players might see a slight shift in their existing settlement’s class but will also find that upgrading to an S-Class settlement is more achievable and predictable. Settlements owned before the Beacon update will receive a special “Pioneer Spirit” trait.
Customizable Resource Production: Overseers can now choose which resources their settlements will produce. The selection is influenced by the settlement’s dominant race and its buildings, with higher-class structures unlocking more lucrative production options. Produced resources can be sold directly from the settlement management screen.
Building Upgrades and Increased Functionality: Each settlement building now provides a constant contribution to the settlement’s happiness, population, and productivity levels. Buildings can be upgraded to improve their appearance and the settlement’s class. A permanent terminal has been added to every settlement building, providing access to its information page and some special utilities:
- Towers: Can be used to scan for points of interest on planets and in space, and will generate a small amount of navigation data daily.
- Marketplaces: Will host an emissary from the local system’s leading guild.
- Factories: Will generate a Multi-Tool Crate with refreshed contents daily.
- Farms: Will feature plantable plots.
- Saloons: Allow the Overseer to set the menu and adjust the ByteBeat track on the jukebox.
- Landing Pads: Offer the ability to locate crashed ships and scrap starships.
Fishing in Settlements: The option to construct fishing pools has been added to all settlements. Fish quality will improve as the pool is upgraded.

Meet the Autophage: A Mysterious Robotic Race

A new, enigmatic robotic lifeform, the Autophage, has been introduced, inhabiting settlements constructed from scrap and crystal.

Discovery and Management: Travellers who discover Autophage lifeforms can become Overseers of these unique settlements. Players who complete the “They Who Returned” mission may receive a special invitation to visit an Autophage settlement from one of their own.
Autophage Synthesis Terminal: These settlements feature an Autophage Synthesis Terminal for trading Void Motes and assembling your own Autophage Staff.
New NPCs and Settlement Traits: Autophage settlers with their own unique titles, dialogues, and thoughts have been added. Autophage settlements will always start with a special trait that reduces Sentinel attention.
New Base Parts: Around a hundred new Autophage-style structural and decorative base parts, purchasable from the Space Anomaly, have been added.

Deeper Citizen Interactions and Management Decisions

Interactions with settlers and management decisions have also been significantly enriched:

Citizen Personalities and Historical Records: Unique information pages have been added for settlers, providing insights into their personalities, strengths, and weaknesses. Additionally, a history page has been added, offering a summary of achievements and events during the Overseer’s tenure.
Expanded Decision Pool: The variety of settlement management decisions in each category has been increased, and the decision interface can now present two to four options. Existing citizen dispute management decisions have been completely reworked, offering clearer scenarios and a wider range of resolution options.
New Decision Types: New types of decisions have been added, such as commissioning a piece of art, naming a newborn citizen, accepting a gift from a specialist, or utilizing an existing settlement boon.
Fireworks Celebrations: Significant events like settlement festivals, new citizens, and successful expeditions will now be celebrated with fireworks in the town center.

New Threats, Defense Mechanisms, and Quality of Life Improvements

Planetary life is now more dynamic and dangerous:

Diversified Sentinel Forces: Sentinel forces attacking settlements now include repair drones, summoners, and waves of heavy, corrupted, and standard drones, promising more tactical combat.
A New Threat: The Vile Brood: “The vile brood queen and her swarm” can now also attack your settlement.
Squadron Support: Pilots of Travellers who own a Squadron will now scramble their ships to defend the settlement against pirate raids.
Weathered Construction Materials: New weathered and rusted appearance options for wood, stone, and alloy surfaces for bases have been added.
Audio Options: An option for a male voice for the Exosuit AI (currently English only) or to disable the voice entirely has been introduced. Different tones and character voices for player vocalizations (grunts, breaths, etc.) can also be set.
Intel XeSS Support: Intel Xe Super Sampling (XeSS) support has been added for PC players, delivering higher performance and exceptional image quality.
Improved Structure Snapping: The snapping mechanism for structural base parts has been significantly improved, especially when placing them on a plane beneath the player.

Nintendo Switch 2 Support and Full Cross-Save Rollout

Nintendo Switch 2 Version: A dedicated version for the next-generation Nintendo console has been announced. This version will feature full multiplayer support (including in-game chat and friend list display), beautiful high-resolution graphics, touch controls, increased planetary detail, higher frame rates, a high-resolution user interface, gyroscopic aiming, and cross-play & cross-save support to continue your existing journey. Current No Man’s Sky Nintendo Switch owners will be able to upgrade to this version via a free upgrade pack on the Nintendo eShop.
Cross-Save Now Fully Available: The Cross-Save feature is now available to all players. This allows you to seamlessly continue your adventure on any platform where No Man’s Sky is available.

The No Man’s Sky Beacon (5.7) update, with its countless new features and improvements, offers a wealth of new content for both new and veteran players to explore. The update is available to download now on PC (Steam), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Mac, and Nintendo Switch.

Unreal Engine 5.6 Unleashed! Discover the Groundbreaking New Features

Skyline — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 09:22:37 GMT

Unreal Engine 5.6 UE5.6 Unreal Engine 5.6 Features

Unreal Engine 5.6 Unleashed! Discover the Groundbreaking New Features

Skyline

• June 4, 2025

Unreal Engine 5.6 Released: Faster, Bigger Worlds and Enhanced Tools

Epic Games has just announced the launch of Unreal Engine 5.6, the latest iteration of its industry-leading game engine. This version aims to empower developers with robust toolsets, especially for running high-quality, large-scale open worlds smoothly at 60 frames per second (FPS) on current-gen hardware. Furthermore, in-engine capabilities for animation and rigging have been boosted, reducing the need to jump between digital content creation (DCC) software, and MetaHuman characters can now be created entirely within the engine.

Unreal Engine 5.6 is packed with a suite of improvements designed to help developers work faster and smarter. Key highlights include quicker access to essential tools, better asset organization, and significant updates to procedural and virtual production toolsets.

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Performance and Expansive Worlds

One of the primary goals of this release is to enable developers to create games that consistently run at 60 FPS on current-gen consoles, high-end PCs, and modern mobile devices.

Lumen Hardware Ray Tracing (HWRT) Optimizations: Higher performance is targeted for Lumen Global Illumination. Key CPU bottlenecks have been eliminated, allowing for a sustained 60 FPS frame rate even when rendering more complex scenes.
Fast Geometry Streaming Plugin (Experimental): Enables faster loading of immutable static geometry and stable frame rates.
General Streaming Improvements: Overall enhancements to content streaming, such as asynchronous physics state creation and destruction, will benefit all projects.
Updated Device Profiles: Profiles optimized for 60 FPS and tailored for current-gen consoles and desktop platforms make it easier to hit performance targets.

Accelerated Animation Creation

Unreal Engine 5.6 brings the biggest update yet to its in-editor animation toolset, offering greater speed, precision, and control.

Motion Trails: Completely redesigned, this feature allows for visual and intuitive animation editing. Arcs and spacing can be adjusted directly in the viewport.
Tween Tools: Revamped for faster fine-tuning of animations on controls or selected keys.
Curve Editor: Redesigned for speed and performance. Handling keyframes is now easier and cleaner.
Sequencer Updates: Introduces the new Sequencer Navigation Tool for navigating complex hierarchies and real-time Audio Scrubbing for synchronizing animation, dialogue, and effects.
In-Engine Rigging Solutions (Experimental):
- Morph Target Creation: Create and sculpt morph targets directly within the Skeletal Mesh Editor.
- Control Rig Physics: Easily add procedural physics motion to character rigs for more dynamic movements. Additionally, a new internal ragdoll physics feature within rigs is also available experimentally.

MetaHuman Innovations: Now Fully In-Engine

MetaHuman Creator is now fully integrated into Unreal Engine and includes a range of additional enhancements alongside MetaHuman Animator.

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Parametric Body Shapes: Similar to faces, an almost infinite variety of possible body shapes can be created.
Unreal Engine Clothing Asset: Complete outfits that automatically conform to MetaHumans can now be created.
Enhanced Animation Capture: MetaHuman Animator can now capture actor performances in real-time from most webcams, many smartphones, and even from audio.
Expanded Licensing Options: New licensing options in the UE EULA allow MetaHumans to be used with any engine or creative software.
Fab Integration: MetaHumans and compatible assets can now be bought and sold on the Fab marketplace.

Simplified User Experience and Interface

The editor has been updated to offer faster workflows, smarter content organization, and quicker access to the tools and settings needed to maintain productivity.

Redesigned Content Browser: Enhances asset organization and viewing, offering smoother thumbnail resizing and seamless support for both horizontal and vertical orientations.
Viewport Toolbar: Section Menus and Quick Access Controls have been redesigned for faster access to essential tools. The toolbar now dynamically resizes to display relevant tool options.

Improved Developer Iteration

Speed up workflows on target platforms and devices and deliver content faster with developer tools designed for quicker iteration.

Project Launcher Interface (Beta): Completely redesigned for usability and efficiency, speeding up the creation and management of device launch profiles.
Zen Streaming (Beta): Boosts efficiency by eliminating the time-consuming steps of full packaged builds and copy/install deployments, facilitating content iteration and testing on the target platform.
Incremental Cook (Experimental): Accelerates cooking times by analyzing asset changes and only cooking the updates.

Faster World Building with Procedural Tools

The PCG (Procedural Content Generation) framework has been enhanced for creating worlds and managing complex scenes efficiently with better GPU-driven performance.

Node Graph UX (Beta): Updated to support inline constants, making it easier to create, drag-and-drop, and manipulate elements. It also introduces a new 3D viewport (Beta) that allows for previewing points, textures, and meshes directly in the viewport.
GPU Performance Improvements (Beta): Increases stability in managing instances, especially in dense, complex scenes.
PCG Biome Core v2 Plugin (Experimental): Biome creation and updating are now faster and more intuitive. New features like per-biome blending and biome layering provide more control for creating rich, organic environments more efficiently.

Advanced Cinematic and Performance Capture Workflows

A suite of new integrated tools offers better control over production pipelines, including performance capture and cinematic rendering.

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Mocap Manager (Experimental): A new end-to-end solution for visualizing, recording, and managing performance capture within the Unreal Editor.
Capture Manager (Experimental): Now integrated with Live Link Hub, offering precise control over ingesting and processing MetaHuman captures from mobile devices, video files, and stereo head-mounted cameras (HMCs).
Cinematic Assembly Toolset (CAT) (Experimental): Featuring everything from swappable project configurations to customizable naming tokens and reusable cinematic templates, this toolset works with integrated tools like Take Recorder and Movie Render Queue to help manage your shot management pipeline from start to finish.
Quick Render (Beta): Enables one-click creation of still images and sequences to disk from the viewport and selected cameras, using settings defined in the Movie Render Graph.

Other Notable Rendering Enhancements

RHI - Renderer Parallelization: The Renderer Hardware Interface (RHI) API has been refactored to improve Render Thread performance.
Substrate Materials (Beta): Replaces the material creation approach with a more expressive and modular framework.
First Person Rendering (Beta): A rendering method that prevents player hands/weapons from clipping with world objects and includes a separate field of view (FOV).
GPU Profiler 2.0: A re-architected Insights GPU profiler.

World Building Tools

World Bookmarks: A system to help navigate within a level and across multiple worlds while working in the editor.
Landscape - Batched Merge: Fixes scalability issues when working with large landscapes.
Landscape - Level Instance and Data Layers Support: Landscape editing within a level instance is now supported.

Character and Animation (Additional Details)

Seamless Gameplay Transition for Cinematics (Experimental): In collaboration with the new Unreal Animation Framework, Sequencer will be able to seamlessly transition character animations to/from gameplay.
Retarget Operation Stack: The IK Retargeter’s framework has been converted into an operation stack that you can reorder.
Control Rig Physics (Experimental): Add procedural Physics motion to animations and Control Rigs.
Sculpt Morph Shapes: Create and sculpt morph targets directly within the Skeletal Mesh editor using Unreal Engine’s internal modeling tools.

Other Important Updates

Niagara LWC Tile Update Mode: For Niagara systems operating in large world coordinates and covering long distances.
Optimized Niagara System Compilation: A new compilation mode reduces time spent waiting for results and significantly lowers the number of UObjects generated.
Chaos Enhancements: Optimizations and new features in Chaos Core, Chaos Cloth (Beta Cloth Editor), Chaos Flesh, and Chaos Visual Debugger.
Android Emulator Integration: Ability to test Android games on virtual devices from the Unreal Editor.
OpenXR 1.1 Support: Simplifies the development of advanced XR applications.
Audio Insights: UX improvements in the primary tool for audio profiling and debugging.
Texturing Tools (Beta): Numerous improvements to the TextureGraph toolset.
FBX Level Import with Interchange: The FBX level import process can now be done via the Interchange Framework.
Simplified Mass Processor API: The way Mass processors are created has been simplified.
Mover Plugin: AI integration, animation support, and performance improvements.
Revamped Templates and Variants: Templates have been significantly downsized, and an option for “Variants” for specific game genres has been added.

Unreal Engine 5.6 continues to offer developers a comprehensive suite of tools to create bigger, more realistic, and higher-performing experiences. For even more details, be sure to visit the official Unreal Engine website.

The Witcher 4: Fresh Look at Ciri in Stunning Unreal Engine 5 Tech Demo!

G-Man — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 15:56:29 GMT

The Witcher 4 The Witcher 4 tech demo The Witcher 4 Ciri

The Witcher 4: Fresh Look at Ciri in Stunning Unreal Engine 5 Tech Demo!

G-Man

• June 3, 2025

The Witcher 4 Breaks Cover: Unreal Engine 5 Showcase Unveiled

Big news out of Unreal Fest 2025! CD PROJEKT RED and Epic Games just pulled back the curtain on the very first Unreal Engine 5 tech demo for the highly anticipated The Witcher 4. Live from Orlando, the teams dished out initial details on the game’s technical backbone and gave us our first glimpse of the Kovir region—a brand new realm for the series. The presentation took place on June 3rd, 2025, around 12:56 PM GMT.

Ciri’s Saga, Powered by Next-Gen Tech

The demo follows Ciri, the protagonist of The Witcher 4, as she embarks on a journey with her trusty steed Kelpie through mountains and forests, deep in a monster contract. Their destination? The port city of Valdrest. These scenes served as the canvas to showcase the engine’s cutting-edge features.

Impressively, the tech demo was shown running on a PlayStation 5 at a smooth 60 FPS. Key innovations highlighted include:

Lifelike character animations via the Unreal Animation Framework
Dense foliage without performance hits, thanks to Nanite Foliage
Realistic management of large crowds using MetaHuman and Mass AI systems
Seamless and fast-loading maps with FastGeo Streaming
Detailed animations down to muscle movements, courtesy of ML Deformer

These systems are being developed in line with CD PROJEKT RED’s signature open-world design philosophy and are slated to become available to all Unreal Engine developers with the release of Unreal Engine 5.6.

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Kovir: A First-Ever Glimpse in the Witcher Gaming Universe

Often mentioned in the book series but never before featured in the games, Kovir will finally make its debut in The Witcher 4. This region, characterized by its mountainous geography, forested areas, and bustling city life, was chosen as the primary stage to test these new technologies.

Words from the Top: CD PROJEKT RED & Epic Games Speak Out

Michał Nowakowski, Co-CEO of CD PROJEKT RED, stated:

Our collaboration with Epic Games aimed to push open-world game technology forward. Presenting this early-stage demonstration running at 60 FPS on PlayStation 5 today is a significant milestone. But this is just the beginning.

Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, added:

CD PROJEKT RED is one of the industry’s powerhouses in open-world gaming. With The Witcher 4, they are spearheading our efforts to push the boundaries of Unreal Engine.

A New Saga Begins

The Witcher 4 is set to be a brand-new single-player open-world RPG developed by CD PROJEKT RED, with Ciri taking center stage. Following the monumental success of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, the new installment promises a world that’s darker, more expansive, and technologically advanced.

While a release date remains under wraps, the development team confirms that the game is actively in development. Stay tuned to gaming-db.com for more updates as they drop!

Hunt: Showdown 1896 Summer Update: DeSalle Returns, 'Judgement of the Fool' Event Kicks Off

G-Man — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 02:22:41 GMT

Hunt: Showdown Hunt: Showdown 1896 DeSalle map

Hunt: Showdown 1896 Summer Update: DeSalle Returns, 'Judgement of the Fool' Event Kicks Off

G-Man

• June 3, 2025

Hunt: Showdown 1896 Set to Revive DeSalle Map and Unleash “Judgement of the Fool” Event This Summer

Crytek is gearing up for a summer update for Hunt: Showdown 1896 poised to be rich in both content and atmosphere. The fan-favorite map, DeSalle, is making its grand re-entry into the game. Alongside this, the brand-new in-game event, “Judgement of the Fool,” arrives hot on its heels with Update 2.4.

The Return of DeSalle

Originally added back in 2021 and quickly becoming a beloved battleground, the DeSalle map is returning with a complete visual overhaul. We’re talking revamped lighting, textures, environmental design, and foliage – the works. Key locations like Kingsnake Mine, Pearl Plantation, and Fort Bolden will feature new pathways, sightlines, and entry points, all designed to spice up tactical diversity.

And it’s not just DeSalle getting a facelift; daylight and time-of-day cycle systems across all maps have also been redesigned.

“Judgement of the Fool” Event Commences

The upcoming event throws players into a dark reckoning. The narrative follows a tale of vengeance between “The Fool” and “The Pale Judge,” set against the misty, treacherous backdrop of the bayou. Throughout the event, hunters can dive into the unfolding story and unlock new Legendary characters:

The Fool – A swindler and a corrupted soul, twisted and deformed by the very fake remedies he peddled.
The Pale Judge – Once an arbiter of justice, now a dispenser of it through the barrel of a gun and the turn of a tarot card.
Dorothy Alice – The last surviving member of the Alice family in Stillwater Bayou, who provides sanctuary to The Fool from The Pale Judge.

But the event isn’t just about lore; new gameplay mechanics are being introduced:

Pledge Mark Stealing: Loot these special marks from fallen hunters.
Trait Wage Spur: Gamble your marks for a chance to randomly acquire specific traits.
Bounty Clash MMR: A separate matchmaking rating for this new mode.
Catalyst Trait: A brand-new trait that combines features from previous events.
New Enemy: The Brute

What’s Cooking in Update 2.4?

Update 2.4 is also set to deliver a host of technical improvements:

Over 100 UI issues have been squashed
AI behavior, sound design, and in-game balancing have received significant overhauls
All these tweaks are aimed at cranking up the game’s notorious tension and making every bayou encounter even more heart-poundingly lethal.

Crytek hasn’t dropped the exact launch date for the “Judgement of the Fool” event just yet. However, players can brace themselves for a summer packed with fresh content and crucial technical upgrades. We’re keeping our eyes peeled for Summer Game Fest, where a trailer for the event is likely to debut, bringing more details with it. Stay tuned to gaming-db.com for the latest!

The Witcher 4 to Take Center Stage at State of Unreal Showcase!

G-Man — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 16:23:19 GMT

the witcher 4 the witcher 4 presentation the witcher 4 unreal engine

The Witcher 4 to Take Center Stage at State of Unreal Showcase!

G-Man

• June 2, 2025

CD Projekt RED to Showcase The Witcher 4 Tech at State of Unreal 2025

Hold onto your silver swords, folks! Gaming titan CD Projekt RED has just announced they’re gearing up for a big reveal: a presentation on the highly anticipated next installment in The Witcher series. This will all go down at Epic Games’ State of Unreal 2025 event, happening tomorrow, June 3rd. The studio plans to pull back the curtain on the innovative tech and features that will not only power The Witcher 4 but also shape their future projects.

In an official statement, CD Projekt RED laid it out: “We’ll be joining Epic Games during State of Unreal for a presentation. We’re excited to showcase some of the innovative tech and features that will power The Witcher 4 and beyond.”

For those not in the loop, State of Unreal 2025 is Epic Games’ flagship event, a festival-esque showcase revealing the latest advancements in their Unreal Engine and highlighting games being developed with it. This year’s digital curtain rises on June 3rd at 1:30 PM GMT.

It’s already been confirmed that CD Projekt RED is building the next Witcher saga on Unreal Engine 5. This upcoming presentation is hotly tipped to give us our first substantial look at the new game’s potential visual fidelity, gameplay mechanics, and the overall technical wizardry brewing under the hood. And it sounds like the reveals won’t stop with just The Witcher 4. The word on the street is that this presentation will also touch upon other aspects of CDPR’s future, possibly hinting at what’s next for their other major franchises, like the Cyberpunk universe. You can bet your bottom dollar gaming-db.com will be all over this, bringing you the highlights and our G-Man analysis as soon as they drop tomorrow! Stay tuned!

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Announces Cross-Platform Mod Support!

Skyline — Fri, 30 May 2025 12:58:14 GMT

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt The Witcher 3 mod The Witcher 3 cross-platform mod

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Announces Cross-Platform Mod Support!

Skyline

• May 30, 2025

The Witcher 3 to Receive Cross-Platform Mod Support for its 10th Anniversary

CD PROJEKT RED has announced a major update for players and mod creators in honor of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt’s 10th anniversary. With this new patch, set to release before the end of 2025, the game will gain mod sharing support across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

The update will enable uploading, sharing, and downloading mods through the mod.io platform. This will allow players on different platforms to access a common mod pool.

Key Highlights:

The update will be completely free and available to all owners of The Witcher 3.
Console users will only be able to access mods via mod.io. However, PC users can continue to use existing mod-sharing platforms.
To use mod.io, you’ll need to create an account and link it to your CD PROJEKT RED account.
Mods can be published on all platforms as long as they comply with content guidelines and the user agreement. However, some mods may only be available on PC due to platform limitations.
The official mod development tool, called REDkit, will be mandatory for console mods. Mods containing scripts can only be developed with REDkit. However, this requirement does not apply to textures, packages, and similar assets.
REDkit provides players with the same tools used in the development of The Witcher 3. This tool will allow mod developers to make deep-seated changes to the game.

All mods can be uploaded and shared via The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt hub on mod.io. The approval process for consoles will be stricter, and mods created with REDkit will be prioritized for review.

With this update, CD PROJEKT RED aims to make The Witcher 3’s modding community more accessible and unified. The exact release date for the full patch hasn’t been announced yet, but more information will be shared as the launch approaches.

DOOM: The Dark Ages - Millions Played, But Sales Reportedly Falter Below 1M

Skyline — Tue, 27 May 2025 18:38:01 GMT

DOOM: The Dark Ages Bethesda id Software

DOOM: The Dark Ages - Millions Played, But Sales Reportedly Falter Below 1M

Skyline

• May 27, 2025

DOOM: The Dark Ages, which launched recently, is reportedly struggling to hit the 1 million sales figure, despite boasting high player engagement. Bethesda announced a few days ago that DOOM: The Dark Ages had reached an impressive 3 million players in just one week. However, the gap between the player count and actual sales numbers is raising eyebrows. According to industry sources, the game has yet to cross the 1 million unit sales threshold.

Sales Looking Grim?

Bethesda had previously declared that DOOM: The Dark Ages marked the fastest-launching title in id Software’s history, amassing around 3 million players within its first week. This was highlighted as a player acquisition rate seven times faster than its predecessor, Doom Eternal.

However, Rickard Linder, Co-founder of Alinea Analytics, a firm that scrutinizes such statistics, posted on Linkedin suggesting the game hasn’t actually reached one million sales yet. Linder pointed out that the game’s day-one availability on Xbox Game Pass is a primary reason for the high player count not translating into high sales figures.

Add to this the game’s demanding system requirements and a reportedly high price point, and the number of actual buyers seems to have dwindled further. Bethesda, for its part, has yet to officially release any concrete sales numbers for the game. The Premium Edition of DOOM: The Dark Ages includes a story expansion pack, for which a release date has not yet been announced. The expectation is that Bethesda aims to convert Game Pass players into paying customers by enticing them to purchase this additional content.

Summer Game Fest 2025 Countdown Has Begun!

Skyline — Tue, 27 May 2025 14:36:52 GMT

Summer Game Fest 2025 Summer Game Fest date Summer Game Fest games

Summer Game Fest 2025 Countdown Has Begun!

Skyline

• May 27, 2025

Summer Game Fest 2025 Countdown Has Begun

Summer Game Fest’s annual showcase will kick off this year with its opening presentation on the night of June 6th at 9:00 PM GMT. The presentation, which is expected to run for approximately 2 hours, will feature numerous new game reveals and updates for eager gamers.

Confirmed Games to be Showcased:

WUCHANG: Fallen Feathers
Chrono Odyssey
Crystal of Atlan

Alongside these titles, highly anticipated games like Ghost of Yotei and Death Stranding 2 are also expected to make an appearance at the event, though this hasn’t been officially confirmed yet.

Summer Game Fest has become one of gaming’s biggest showcases, especially following E3’s conclusion. Geoff Keighley will once again host the event, and as with every year, surprise announcements are likely on the horizon. While Geoff’s events tend to be somewhat dry, there’s been noticeable improvement in recent years.

We’ll continue to keep you updated as developments unfold.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Review

EdgeTypE (translated by G-Man) — Fri, 23 May 2025 14:01:59 GMT

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 review Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 game review

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Review

EdgeTypE (translated by G-Man)

• May 23, 2025

Hailed with titles like “game of the year” and “surprise of the year,” is Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 really that good? Let’s dive into this detailed review.

Gaming-DB

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

I never thought any game could make me love turn-based combat. I was wrong.

pros

cons

Gameplay, especially boss fights

Art design

Presentation

Music

The magic fades after a point

Optimization issues

I’m not a fan of fantasy fiction. I’m not a fan of turn-based combat. But I loved this game.

I first saw this game during one of the Xbox showcases last year. But it didn’t grab my attention at all. I thought it would be just another generic AA RPG. I was so uninterested that I didn’t even watch the trailer properly. I didn’t even know it was turn-based. While I was completely oblivious to the game’s existence, suddenly I saw its review scores being published. Everyone was racing to praise it. Then I noticed a review code had landed in my inbox. “Alright,” I thought, “let’s give it a look,” and I launched the game. The only thing I knew when I started was that it was set in a fantasy world. I mistakenly believed, “It’s a universe set in the Middle Ages, something has happened, and everyone over the age of 33 is dying.”

Story of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

I started the game and, surprise, it’s definitely not the Middle Ages. It’s set in a time closer to the modern era. This immediately piqued my interest. The game unfolds with a slow, deliberate presentation, gradually introducing you to its universe. There’s a character called the Paintress. Nobody knows exactly what she is. All that’s known is there’s an island, and in the middle of this island, in a tower-like structure, there’s a number. Every year, the Paintress reduces this number by one. They started counting down from 100. When it hit 99, everyone aged 99 died. When it hit 98, everyone aged 98 died. And so it continues. The people in this game world, wondering if there’s a way to stop this, started organizing expeditions to the island. But none have succeeded, and the countdown has reached 34.

When the game gives us control, the countdown is just a few hours away from dropping to 33. The character we’re initially connected to has a loved one who is 33 and will die when the number changes. The entire city has gathered to bid farewell to those who are 33.

The Paintress arrives, changes the number to 33, and everyone aged 33 turns to dust. This has apparently become a tradition, as after the number drops, a team composed of those who will die next year organizes an expedition to the island. So, we, as part of a team of 32-year-olds, head to the island.

Gameplay Mechanics

This is where the game truly begins. We don’t control a single character; the game doesn’t have one sole protagonist. We manage the entire expedition team. While exploring the open world, we can switch characters with a single button press. Each character has their own abilities, and when entering combat, you select three characters to fight with. You defeat enemies by comboing these characters’ abilities.

For instance, one of my characters might set an enemy on fire. When another character attacks a burning enemy, they regenerate their own health. And so on. In this way, the abilities of different characters complement each other, allowing you to take down whatever comes your way.

The game features a remarkably diverse range of enemies. I can’t remember the last time I played a game with such varied foes. New enemy types constantly appear, and these aren’t just reskins with different colors. Each has unique abilities and movement patterns, which prevents the game from becoming repetitive.

Right at the beginning of the game, as soon as I entered the first combat, I thought, “Oh no! This game is turn-based.” For someone like me, whose only past experience with turn-based games was Angry Birds RPG, a potentially incredibly boring game awaited. “I’ve got the review code for this game, how am I going to make a video about it?” I reluctantly started playing. However, the more I played, the more I grew to love the game.

Still, the game’s magic didn’t last indefinitely for me. I finished it in 25 hours, and around the 15-16 hour mark, I started to get a bit weary. Actually, “weary” might not be the right word. I simply stopped deriving the same level of enjoyment I had at the beginning. I began avoiding regular enemy encounters as much as possible, focusing only on boss fights. You can actually evade almost all enemies in the game. If you just run past them, they often can’t catch you, and you don’t have to engage in combat. Realizing this contributed somewhat to breaking the game’s spell for me.

Now, about the boss fights. There’s a wide variety of them, and almost all are excellent. I think there were only 1 or 2 boss fights I didn’t particularly enjoy. In fact, I can probably say that some of the best bosses I’ve ever encountered in a game were in this one. The game has a genuinely massive map and a lot of side content. Something emerges from everywhere you go, a boss from every corner. I finished it in 25 hours focusing only on the main story, but if you were to tackle all the side content, the game’s length would nearly double.

This isn’t a big-budget game made by a giant corporation. You wouldn’t expect such abundant content from smaller games like this, but they’ve done it. The developing team, Sandfall, consists of about 30 people. Of course, they’ve collaborated with many external companies, but the core team is very small. Despite this, they’ve produced an excellent piece of work.

Atmosphere and Presentation

The game has its own distinct visual aesthetic. It looks very French, and while it might be a bit jarring at first, you get used to it. It looks beautiful, but due to improper optimization, the game appears very hazy and blurry. I fixed this with mods. If you’re planning to play the game on PC, I recommend these mods.

The game looks good and all, but some areas are too bright, and some are too dark. I don’t know the exact term for it, but the lighting and colors in some scenes look very amateurish. The way lights bloom, etc., looks like my own shoddy game development attempts in Unreal Engine. Something isn’t quite right, but I can’t pinpoint exactly what.

Apart from that, the atmosphere is great; animations, cutscenes, and so on are very well done. They’ve paid attention to story presentation and have done a good job. Although I didn’t like where the story went towards the end, the story presentation itself was genuinely excellent. The game’s voice cast is top-notch. Many famous actors are part of the voice cast and they’ve done a great job.

The music is also good-ish. Yes, it’s beautiful, but for a film, series, or game score, being good isn’t enough. It also needs to fit the scene. Here, most of the time, the music that plays, while beautiful, doesn’t suit the scene.

You’ll find yourself listening to the game’s music on YouTube, etc.; it has some great tracks. But the music-scene synergy, in my opinion, is poor. Speaking of music-scene synergy, the pinnacle of this is this example.

What’s the one thing you hate most in a game? For me, it’s getting lost on the map. Mass Effect 1 is one of my favorite games. It has many problems; it’s very old, very clunky. But when recommending it to someone, my biggest reservation isn’t any of those. It’s the near impossibility of not getting lost in the Citadel section at the beginning of the game.

This game is like Warband. You know, it has a huge map. But when you enter castles or cities, there’s no map or anything. You find your own way. It’s the same here. We enter locations, which you can think of as dungeons. However, there’s no guidance inside them. Am I going the right way? Am I lost? Is where I’m going the right place? Where am I? You can never be sure. And this constantly starts to bother you. When you reach a fork in the road, the fear of getting lost and having to restart the section diminishes the enjoyment you get from the game. I come to a crossroads. I feel like exploring to see what’s around, but I don’t, fearing I won’t find my way back.

Conclusion: Is Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Worth It?

If even someone like me, who has no affinity for turn-based games, loved this game, I recommend everyone at least give it a try. By the way, the game is also available on Game Pass. If you want to play it cheaply, you can try it on Game Pass. The game is already being hailed as “Game of the Year” in many places. I don’t think it quite deserves that title, but it’s a very good game nonetheless.

Gaming-DB

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

I never thought any game could make me love turn-based combat. I was wrong.

pros

cons

Gameplay, especially boss fights

Art design

Presentation

Music

The magic fades after a point

Optimization issues

Rainbow Six Siege is Being Revamped with the Siege X Update: New Game Mode, Maps, and More

Skyline — Sun, 18 May 2025 20:03:44 GMT

Rainbow Six Siege 10th year Siege X update Rainbow Six Siege new mode

Rainbow Six Siege is Being Revamped with the Siege X Update: New Game Mode, Maps, and More

Skyline

• May 18, 2025

A New Era Begins for Rainbow Six Siege: Siege X and 10th Year Roadmap Announced

Ubisoft has officially announced a major update called “Siege X” for its popular tactical shooter game, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege, along with a special roadmap for the game’s 10th year. Siege X is planned for release on June 10, 2025, and players can expect fundamental changes and innovations.

According to the announcement by Ubisoft, “Siege X” will not be a sequel to Rainbow Six Siege but will be presented to players as a comprehensive relaunch and update package, described as the “biggest evolution” in the game’s history. The company stated that with this update, it aims to further strengthen its leading position in the tactical shooter genre.

With Siege X, players can look forward to significant innovations such as improvements in graphics and sound systems, a revamped user interface, an advanced rappel system featuring abilities like rappelling while sprinting, momentum-based movement mechanics, and the ability to inspect weapons up close.

The update will also introduce a new model offering free access to certain game content. Under this model, players will be able to access up to 26 different operators and experience new game modes like “Dual Front.” It was stated that a premium version will be required for access to the full operator roster and competitive modes. It was announced that existing Rainbow Six Siege owners will automatically have this premium access.

Ubisoft also emphasized that with Siege X, it plans to offer a more dynamic and faster content flow with a new operator or a reworked existing operator, three modernized maps, and two major in-game events each season.

10th Year Roadmap Details Revealed

The 10th Year Roadmap, detailed on May 18, 2025, and including the launch of Siege X, covers the innovations to be added to the game throughout the year:

Year 10 Season 2: Operation Daybreak (Planned Release Date: June 10, 2025)

Test Server: New season content will be available for players to experience on the test server starting May 20, 2025.
New Game Mode - Dual Front: A 6v6 mode with respawns where players can choose from both attacker and defender operator pools. This mode will feature monthly operator and map updates.
Modernized Maps: Five maps will be updated with new lighting systems and “destructible content” – objects that can dynamically change the gameplay area (e.g., fire extinguishers that create a smoke screen when shot).
Other Notable Innovations and Improvements:
- Advanced rappel system and momentum-based movement mechanics.
- New Pick & Ban system.
- Communication wheel.
- Weapon inspection feature.
- Special rewards for veteran players.
- Return of the Unranked playlist.
- A completely overhauled sound system.
- Ability to follow tournament schedules and developments via an in-game Esports tab.
- An improved onboarding process for new players with 40 new missions; operators and game modes will be unlocked gradually.
- Two limited-time in-game events per season (the popular “Showdown” event will return in Y10S2).
- Special dialogues between operators at the start of rounds.
- In-game career profile and detailed statistics page.
Balancing Changes:
- Bullet damage to limbs will be adjusted based on weapon caliber and generally reduced.
- Electric damage will now affect both attackers and defenders; it will destroy gadgets and slow movement.
- Shield Operators: Aim Down Sights (ADS) will be cancelled upon taking cover.
- Jackal: Scanned footprints will disappear after providing a single location ping.
- Jäger: ADS devices will now be able to destroy Capitao’s fire bolts and Gridlock’s Trax Stingers.
- Sledge: His hammer swings will be able to knock down shield operators.
Operator Rework - Clash:
- Her mobility will be increased, and her shield will be able to retract automatically.
- She will be able to deploy her shield on the ground and use it with a remote-controlled taser; this deployed shield can be destroyed by explosives or by vaulting over it.

Year 10 Season 3

A new Swiss defender operator and a new weapon specific to this operator will be added to the game.
Consulate, Lair, and Nighthaven maps will be modernized.

Year 10 Season 4

At least one attacker operator will be reworked (remastered).
A new weapon usable by multiple operators will be introduced to the game.
Theme Park and Skyscraper maps will be modernized, and additionally, one map will be extensively overhauled.
Two new in-game events will be held, including a special event for the game’s 10th anniversary.
A special playlist called “Testing Grounds” will be added where players can experiment with mechanics like speed and armor.

Ubisoft officials stated that with Siege X and the detailed 10th Year Roadmap, they have once again reaffirmed their long-term commitment to Rainbow Six Siege and their goal of continuously keeping the game fresh.

Bungie Admits to Theft in Its New Game!

G-Man — Sat, 17 May 2025 18:22:35 GMT

Bungie Marathon Antireal

Bungie Admits to Theft in Its New Game!

G-Man

• May 17, 2025

Bungie Admits to Using Stolen Artwork

Bungie, one of the big names in the gaming world, is in the news with some unpleasant developments regarding its new game, Marathon. The company has been forced to admit to using an artist’s work without permission. Moreover, this isn’t the first “inspiration” incident Bungie has been involved in. Let’s take a closer look behind the scenes of the event and Bungie’s less-than-convincing explanations.

What Happened? Artist Rebelled, Bungie Blamed a Former Employee

It all started on May 15, 2025, with posts made by digital artist Fern Hook (known on social media as @4nt1r34l). Hook revealed with evidence that some designs she created in 2017 were used in Marathon’s closed alpha version without permission, credit, or payment. The artist rightfully expressed her reaction, stating, “Bungie is of course not obligated to hire me when making a game that draws overwhelmingly from the same design language I have refined for the last decade, but clearly my work was good enough to pillage for ideas and plaster all over their game without pay or attribution.”

Loading Tweet...

Following the spread of these allegations, Bungie made a statement on May 16 via the MarathonDevTeam Twitter account. In the statement, it was admitted that the artist’s decals were indeed used in the game without permission. However, Bungie passed the buck to a former employee, saying, “This issue was unknown by our existing art team, and we are still reviewing how this oversight occurred.” The company added that they had contacted the artist, would rectify the situation, and would implement stricter checks to prevent similar incidents in the future.

How Convincing is Bungie’s Explanation? Past Incidents Cast a Shadow

Bungie’s explanation along the lines of “a former employee did it, we weren’t aware” wasn’t found very convincing by the gaming community. This is because it’s not the company’s first “it happened by mistake” incident. Similar events occurred with Destiny 2 previously, where allegations arose about the unauthorized use of various artists’ work, and Bungie similarly apologized and sought to rectify the situation. These repeated “mistakes” raise serious questions about how much respect the company has for artists’ work and how effective its internal audit mechanisms are.

Marathon and the Limits of “Inspiration”: Designs are Almost Identical

@4nt1r34l claims that it’s not just a few decals, but Marathon’s overall visual language and aesthetic have gone far beyond “inspiration” from her decade of work, essentially being copied. It’s impossible not to notice this when you look at the designs. Marathon had caught my attention with its interesting visual style, but apparently, it wasn’t their own. After @4nt1r34l’s post, people on social media began to investigate the incident more deeply. It’s clear that some designs in the game are almost identical to @4nt1r34l’s original works or used with very minor alterations. Bungie’s admission, limited to just “a few decals,” is not enough to quell the outcry from the artist and the public.

Swords Join the Fray in Helldivers 2: Masters of Ceremony Warbond Arrives

G-Man — Thu, 08 May 2025 14:31:35 GMT

Helldivers 2 Helldivers 2 new Warbond Masters of Ceremony Warbond

Swords Join the Fray in Helldivers 2: Masters of Ceremony Warbond Arrives

G-Man

• May 8, 2025

New Warbond Coming to Helldivers 2: Masters of Ceremony Launches May 15

Arrowhead Game Studios has announced Masters of Ceremony, a brand-new Premium Warbond for Helldivers 2, set to launch on May 15 for both PlayStation 5 and PC.

Celebrating the eradication of the Illuminate invaders, this Warbond delivers ceremonial gear inspired by Super Earth’s most elite forces, including exclusive weapons, armor sets, and majestic capes.

New Weapons & Gear

R-2 Amendment: A rifle with a 20-round magazine and a bayonet for close-quarters bug-slicing efficiency.
CQC-2 Sabre: A blade from the classical era, perfect for piercing enemy hearts with elegance.
G-142 Pyrotech Grenade: Spins mid-air, scattering sparks before erupting into a fiery explosion.
CQC-1 One True Flag: Not just a banner—it’s a spear! Symbolize Managed Democracy’s might as you rally allies.

New Armor Sets & Cosmetics

RE-1861 Parade Commander: A lightweight armor blending ancient grandeur with battlefield agility. Paired with the red-black-gold Humble Regalia cape, it’s a spectacle of authority.
RE-2310 Honorary Guard: A battle-tested traditional set featuring the Federation’s Embrace cape, honoring Super Earth’s storied legacy.

Both armors include the Reinforced Epaulettes perk, reducing arm injuries so you can wave the flag of victory longer.

New FRV Patterns for Older Warbonds

Responding to community requests, existing Warbonds will receive fresh FRV patterns starting May 15. Check these updated pages:

Viper Commando
Freedom’s Flame
Chemical Agents
Truth Enforcers

The Masters of Ceremony Premium Warbond and FRV patterns deploy on May 15. Rally your squad, Helldivers—Super Earth’s finest await your valor!

Stay tuned for more intel on the next front of the Galactic War.

GTA VI Deep Dive: New Characters, Vice City Details

G-Man — Tue, 06 May 2025 15:17:58 GMT

GTA VI GTA 6 Grand Theft Auto VI

GTA VI Deep Dive: New Characters, Vice City Details

G-Man

• May 6, 2025

GTA VI’s New Trailer: Return to Vice City and New Characters

Rockstar Games has released a new trailer for its highly anticipated game, GTA VI. Alongside the trailer, significant details about the game’s main characters, story, and locations within the state of Leonida have been shared.

Story and Main Characters

GTA VI will tell the story of two characters named Jason and Lucia. The game will be set in Vice City and will encompass various regions of the state of Leonida.

Jason Duval

Attempting to leave a troubled youth behind, Jason joined the army, only to later find himself working for local drug lords in the Keys. Though he dreams of an easy life, trouble seems to follow him. His crossing paths with Lucia could either be his salvation or the beginning of an even greater disaster.

Lucia Caminos

Trained in combat by her father from a young age, Lucia’s life has been a constant struggle. Her efforts to protect her family landed her in the Leonida Correctional Facility, but with a stroke of luck, she managed to get out. Operating under the philosophy, “The only thing that matters is who you know and what you have,” Lucia now aims to achieve the prosperous life her mother dreamed of since their Liberty City days, relying solely on clever plans. Fresh out of prison and sworn to change her destiny, partnering with Jason could be a significant step on her path to this goal.

The State of Leonida and Vice City

The game will be set in Vice City, far removed from the ’80s but still America’s capital of sun and fun. From the pastel art deco hotels and white sands of Ocean Beach to the bustling bakeries of Little Cuba, from the knock-off brands of the Tisha-Wocka flea market to VC Port, the cruise capital of the world, every neighborhood will offer different experiences.

Supporting Characters

Cal Hampton

A friend of Jason’s and one of Brian’s associates, Cal prefers to spend most of his time at home, listening to Coast Guard scanners and researching dubious theories online. While Cal seems content being in America’s “low tide,” his friend Jason has bigger plans.

Boobie Ike

One of Vice City’s local legends, Boobie has successfully transformed his street past into a legitimate empire that includes real estate, a strip club, and a recording studio. Boobie is all smiles until business talk begins. He places great importance on his Only Raw Records partnership, especially with young music producer Dre’Quan, and his biggest goal is to produce a hit track.

Dre’Quan Priest

More of a dealmaker than a gangster, Dre’Quan always dreamed of breaking into the music world, even while making a living on the streets. Having signed the rap duo Real Dimez, Dre’Quan plans to leave behind his days of booking artists at Boobie’s strip club and conquer the Vice City music scene.

Real Dimez

Friends since high school, Bae-Luxe and Roxy, aka Real Dimez, have mastered the art of converting money extorted from local dealers into cash through provocative rap songs and a relentless social media presence. After an early success with a song featuring local rapper DWNPLY, the duo, five years and many tribulations later, is now signed with Only Raw Records, hoping lightning strikes twice.

Raul Bautista

An experienced, charismatic, and cunning bank robber, Raul is always on the lookout for talent that can bring in the biggest rewards by taking the greatest risks. He operates on the principle, “A professional adapts.” Raul’s daring attitude escalates the risks in every heist, and his crew will sooner or later have to either put everything on the line or walk away from the table.

Brian Heder

A classic figure from the golden age of drug smuggling in the Keys, Brian still runs his “operations” through a boatyard with his third wife, Lori. Preferring to let others do the dirty work now, Brian hints at his past grandeur by saying, “I’ve flown so much weed in that plane, I could have gotten the whole state of Leonida high.” Though he may look like a typical Leonida beach bum, he moves like a shark. He allows Jason to live rent-free in one of his properties, provided Jason helps with local “collection” jobs and occasionally stops by for Lori’s homemade sangrias.

Release Date

GTA VI will be released on May 26, 2026.

Gears of War: Reloaded Announced! Exclusive News for Early Buyers!

Skyline — Mon, 05 May 2025 17:43:31 GMT

gears of war gears of war reloaded gears of war remastered

Gears of War: Reloaded Announced! Exclusive News for Early Buyers!

Skyline

• May 5, 2025

Gears of War: Reloaded Arrives on August 26, 2025

Microsoft’s legendary shooter series Gears of War returns with modern graphics. Gears of War: Reloaded launches on August 26, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and Steam. The game will also join the Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass libraries on release day.

Classic Reimagined: Remastered, Expanded, Optimized

Originally released in 2006, Gears of War has been completely rebuilt for modern hardware in Reloaded. The game features 4K resolution, a 60 FPS campaign mode, 120 FPS multiplayer, and cutting-edge technologies like HDR, Dolby Atmos, and VRR. Additionally, the campaign offers seamless gameplay with zero loading screens.

All Content in One Package

Gears of War: Reloaded includes all content from the Ultimate Edition. Bonus campaign chapters, multiplayer maps, modes, classic characters, and cosmetics will be available for free from day one.

Cross-Platform Experience: Cross-Play & Cross-Progression

Players can now team up across platforms. The two-player campaign and eight-player online multiplayer modes support cross-play. Microsoft account users can sync progress across devices and invite friends from any platform.

Free Upgrade for Loyal Xbox Players

A special treat awaits Xbox users who previously purchased Gears of War: Ultimate Edition digitally: Gears of War: Reloaded will be free. To qualify, the digital edition must have been purchased before May 5, 2025, at 16:00 UTC.

GTA 6 Delayed: New Release Date Officially Announced!

G-Man — Fri, 02 May 2025 11:53:56 GMT

GTA 6 Grand Theft Auto VI GTA 6 delayed

GTA 6 Delayed: New Release Date Officially Announced!

G-Man

• May 2, 2025

The Wait for GTA 6 Just Got Longer: New Release Date Revealed

Rockstar Games has issued an update on the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6), confirming a delay to its release. The studio announced that the game’s launch has been pushed to a later date to meet quality expectations.

New Release Date: May 26, 2026

In an official statement, the developer confirmed that GTA 6 will now launch on May 26, 2026. Rockstar Games emphasized that the delay is necessary to deliver a game that “meets the standards players deserve.” The studio acknowledged the frustration but stressed that the extra time will ensure a polished experience.

Statement from Rockstar Games

The studio thanked fans for their patience and reiterated its commitment to exceeding expectations. “We understand this delay may disappoint, but delivering the quality you deserve is our priority. We promise it’ll be worth the wait,” the statement read. Rockstar also teased that more details about the game will be shared “soon.”

While the delay has sparked disappointment among fans eagerly awaiting GTA 6, many have praised the studio’s dedication to quality. This marks Rockstar’s first major delay for the franchise since GTA V’s 2013 release. Industry analysts suggest the move could position GTA 6 as a flagship title for next-gen consoles in 2026.

Stay tuned for updates as development progresses!

Xbox Consoles and Games See Major Price Hikes: Up to 26% Increase

Skyline — Thu, 01 May 2025 15:30:14 GMT

Xbox Microsoft Price Increase

Xbox Consoles and Games See Major Price Hikes: Up to 26% Increase

Skyline

• May 1, 2025

Xbox Consoles and Games Hit with Price Hikes: What You Need to Know

Microsoft has dropped a bombshell on gamers, announcing hefty price increases for its Xbox Series consoles and some first-party games. The new console prices are effective immediately, while the game price bumps will kick in this holiday season. If you’ve been eyeing a new Xbox or some big releases, here’s the rundown on what’s changing.

Console Prices Are Climbing

The price tags on Xbox Series S and X models are jumping across the board, with the US and Europe seeing significant hikes. In the US, the increases range from 20% to over 26%, while Europe’s bumps are a bit less steep, hovering between 9% and 16.67%. Here’s how it breaks down:

US Price Changes

Product	Old Price (USD)	New Price (USD)	Increase (%)
Xbox Series S 512GB	$299.99	$379.99	26.67%
Xbox Series S 1TB	$349.99	$429.99	22.86%
Xbox Series X Digital	$449.99	$549.99	22.22%
Xbox Series X	$499.99	$599.99	20.00%
Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Special	$599.99	$729.99	21.67%

Europe Price Changes

Product	Old Price (EUR)	New Price (EUR)	Increase (%)
Xbox Series S 512GB	€299.99	€349.99	16.67%
Xbox Series S 1TB	€349.99	€399.99	14.29%
Xbox Series X Digital	€499.99	€549.99	10.00%
Xbox Series X	€549.99	€599.99	9.09%
Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Black Special	€599.99	€699.99	16.67%

The US is getting hit harder, percentage-wise, which some are chalking up to factors like tariffs. Meanwhile, Europe’s increases, while still painful, are a bit more restrained.

Games Are Getting Pricier Too

On the software side, Microsoft has confirmed that some of its new first-party games will jump to $79.99 starting this holiday season. This applies to both physical and digital versions. Which titles are affected? They’re keeping that under wraps for now, so we’ll have to wait and see. That said, they’ve promised that “different games and expansions will continue to be offered at a variety of price points,” suggesting not every release will hit that $79.99 mark right away.

Why the Increases?

Microsoft’s pointing to “market conditions and the rising cost of development” as the culprits. It’s not a solo act either—Sony and Nintendo have pulled similar moves recently. With development budgets ballooning and economic pressures mounting, it seems price hikes are becoming the new normal in gaming.

Community Buzz

The news hasn’t gone down quietly. Over on X, reactions range from frustration to begrudging acceptance. Some fans are irked by the timing, especially with holiday shopping around the corner, while others note the US increases sting more than those in other regions. Still, there’s a sense that these adjustments might be inevitable given the state of the industry.

What’s Next?

If you’re planning to grab an Xbox or some new games, you might want to act fast—or lean on Xbox Game Pass, which still offers first-party titles day-and-date. These hikes aren’t exactly a festive gift, but they’re here, and gamers will have to roll with them. Stay tuned for more on which games will carry that $79.99 tag as the holiday season nears.

How to Play Crysis 3 Online in 2025

EdgeTypE — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 12:52:49 GMT

crysis crysis 3 crysis 3 online

How to Play Crysis 3 Online in 2025

EdgeTypE

• April 30, 2025

Disclaimer

Our website is not affiliated with the external links provided below. Goygoy Engine assumes no responsibility for any issues you may encounter. Back up your game files before proceeding.

Crysis 3 Multiplayer Lives On Thanks to the Community!

The official Crysis 3 multiplayer servers—just like those for the earlier games—were taken offline some time ago. After plenty of dedication, however, the Crysis community found a way to revive the servers.

Important: This workaround only functions with the original Crysis 3 (Steam/EA App). It is not compatible with Crysis 3 Remastered.

How to Play Crysis 3 Online

1. Requirements & Launcher Setup

Original Crysis 3: Install the game via Steam or the EA App (formerly Origin). The title is no longer on sale, but if you previously bought it—or have an active Game Pass subscription—you’re good to go.
Download the Launcher: Grab the community-made Crysis 3 Multiplayer Launcher.exe from this link.
Move the Launcher to Your Game Folder: Place Crysis 3 Multiplayer Launcher.exe directly inside the root directory of Crysis 3—e.g., C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Crysis 3.
Run as Administrator: Right-click the launcher and select “Run as administrator.” The tool will automatically download the required mod—roughly 1 GB. Feel free to proceed with the next steps while it downloads.

2. Install & Join Radmin VPN

Radmin VPN is essential for connecting to community servers.

Download Radmin VPN: Get it from the official site and install.
Join the Community Network: In Radmin VPN, go to Network ➜ Join an Existing Network and enter:
- Network Name: Crysis 3 MP
- Password: 123123

After joining, you’ll see other Crysis 3 players in the list. Stay connected to this network while you play.

3. Launch the Game

Start Crysis 3: With Radmin VPN running and connected, launch Crysis 3 to jump into multiplayer.
Username: The mod is still in active development. For now, your in-game name defaults to your PC name, but a proper username system is planned.

Looking for Players?

Check real-time activity in the mod team’s Discord server. You can also join our own Discord community to find fellow Crysis fans.

Have questions? Drop them in the comments below. Happy hunting, Nanosuit soldier! 🎮

Bury the Titanfall 3 Dreams: Respawn Cancels 2 Games, Shifts Focus to Apex Legends & Star Wars

G-Man — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 18:05:45 GMT

Respawn Entertainment game cancellation Apex Legends

Bury the Titanfall 3 Dreams: Respawn Cancels 2 Games, Shifts Focus to Apex Legends & Star Wars

G-Man

• April 29, 2025

Respawn Cancels Two Projects: Focus Shifts to Apex Legends and Star Wars

Respawn Entertainment announced in an official statement that it has canceled two in-development projects to prioritize resources on Apex Legends and the Star Wars Jedi franchise.

The studio clarified that the canceled titles were in early incubation, emphasizing that the decision was not made lightly. Affected team members will receive support and opportunities to transition to other roles within parent company EA. This strategic shift also led to restructuring within the Apex Legends and Star Wars Jedi teams, hinting at potential layoffs or internal reallocations.

Future Plans: Apex Legends and Star Wars

The statement highlighted ambitious goals for Apex Legends, promising not only competitive seasonal updates but also “bold experiments to push the boundaries of the battle royale genre.” The team aims to enhance core gameplay while exploring new modes and features.

For Star Wars, Respawn reiterated its commitment to expanding the Jedi series, with a focus on elevating storytelling and gameplay in the next installment. The studio expressed excitement about delivering “fresh narratives within the beloved Star Wars universe.”

What About Titanfall 3 Rumors?

Though Respawn did not name the canceled projects, speculation surged among fans that one could be the long-rumored Titanfall 3. Leaks and industry whispers had previously hinted at its revival, but this cancellation dashes those hopes. Notably, Titanfall 3 was reportedly scrapped once before during development. Once again, the fate of the Titanfall franchise remains shrouded in mystery—leaving fans to wonder if it’s truly gone for good.

Elden Ring Nightreign System Requirements Revealed!

G-Man — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 13:38:59 GMT

Elden Ring Nightreign system requirements elden ring nightreign PC requirements

Elden Ring Nightreign System Requirements Revealed!

G-Man

• April 28, 2025

Elden Ring Nightreign System Requirements Officially Announced

The PC system requirements for the highly anticipated Elden Ring Nightreign have finally been unveiled. Developed by FromSoftware, the game is set to launch on May 30, 2025. Below are the official minimum and recommended hardware specifications to ensure smooth gameplay.

Minimum System Requirements:

OS: Windows 10
Processor: Intel Core i5-10600 or AMD Ryzen 5 5500
Memory: 12GB RAM
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 3GB or AMD Radeon RX 580 4GB
DirectX: Version 12 (Feature Level 12.0)
Storage: 30GB available space

Recommended System Requirements:

OS: Windows 11
Processor: Intel Core i5-11500 or AMD Ryzen 5 5600
Memory: 16GB RAM
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 8GB or AMD Radeon RX Vega 56 8GB
DirectX: Version 12 (Feature Level 12.0)
Storage: 30GB available space

FromSoftware emphasized that these specifications are subject to updates closer to the release date. Players are advised to meet the recommended requirements for an optimal experience in Elden Ring Nightreign’s vast open world.

Vitality Crowned IEM Melbourne 2025 Champion!

G-Man — Sun, 27 Apr 2025 14:40:31 GMT

Vitality Falcons IEM Melbourne

Vitality Crowned IEM Melbourne 2025 Champion!

G-Man

• April 27, 2025

Vitality Seizes IEM Melbourne Title and Completes ESL Grand Slam Season 5!

Vitality has added another major trophy to its collection, defeating Falcons 3-2 in a nail-biting IEM Melbourne 2025 grand final. The match, which saw the final map stretch into triple overtime, ended with Vitality lifting both the IEM Melbourne trophy and the prestigious ESL Grand Slam Season 5 title.

Grand Slam Glory for Vitality

This win means more than just another tournament victory for Vitality. Having already secured titles at IEM Cologne 2024, IEM Katowice 2025, and ESL Pro League Season 21, their triumph in Melbourne completed their ESL Grand Slam Season 5 run — an achievement that cements their dominance in the Counter-Strike scene. The team also extended its impressive winning streak to 21 matches.

Falcons, who recently bolstered their roster with star player Ilya ”m0NESY” Osipov after their victory at PGL Bucharest, fought hard but couldn’t stop Vitality’s momentum. Interestingly, Vitality has only suffered one defeat in 2025 — against Turkish team Eternal Fire (Aurora).

ZywOo Shines Bright as MVP

Delivering a standout performance throughout the series, ZywOo posted an impressive 1.34 rating and played a crucial role in Vitality’s victory, particularly during the tense final map. His efforts were rewarded with the tournament’s MVP award, adding yet another accolade to his growing legacy.

The Legend Returns with Renewed Graphics and Gameplay!

G-Man — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 15:34:40 GMT

Oblivion Remastered The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered TES IV Remastered

The Legend Returns with Renewed Graphics and Gameplay!

G-Man

• April 22, 2025

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Has Been Released!

After long-standing rumors and anticipation, the Remastered version of Bethesda Game Studios’ 2006 classic role-playing game The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion has finally reached players. Contrary to some claims that the game would be completely remade (remake), it was announced as an enhanced remastered version. However, initial comparisons show that the visual improvements are quite striking and offer an experience “close to remake quality.”

This renewed version offers the opportunity to rediscover the original game’s Cyrodiil lands with stunning modern graphics. Bethesda states that they have revamped not only the visuals but also the gameplay mechanics. Players will fight against Daedric threats coming from the Oblivion gates while writing their own stories in this iconic region of Tamriel. Whether you choose to be a noble warrior, a mysterious wizard, or a stealthy assassin, Oblivion Remastered allows you to forge your own path.

The Remastered version includes all downloadable content (DLC) released for the original Oblivion, including the highly acclaimed Shivering Isles and Knights of the Nine expansion packs.

Platforms, Price, and Accessibility

The game has been simultaneously released for PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 platforms. It has also been confirmed that the game was added to the library for Xbox Game Pass subscribers from day one.

The game’s price has been set at $49.99.

PC System Requirements

The necessary system specifications for those who want to play the PC version of the game have also been announced:

Minimum:

Operating System: Windows 10 64-bit
Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 2600X, Intel Core i7-6800K
Memory: 16 GB RAM
Graphics Card: AMD Radeon RX 5700, NVIDIA GeForce 1070 Ti
DirectX: Version 12
Storage: 125 GB available space

Recommended:

Operating System: Windows 10 64-bit
Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 3600X, Intel Core i5-10600K
Memory: 32 GB RAM
Graphics Card: AMD Radeon RX 6800XT or NVIDIA RTX 2080
DirectX: Version 12
Storage: 125 GB available space

Sony Hikes PlayStation Plus Prices Earlier Than Promised

Skyline — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 14:45:00 GMT

playstation plus ps plus price increase ps plus price hike

Sony Hikes PlayStation Plus Prices Earlier Than Promised

Skyline

• April 17, 2025

Sony Implements PlayStation Plus Price Increase Ahead of Schedule

Sony has officially raised the prices for its PlayStation Plus subscription plans in certain regions—but not quite when users were expecting. Although the company initially informed subscribers that the price hikes would kick in on June 24, 2025, the new rates have already gone live in Turkey as of April 17.

The move came as a surprise, especially considering that subscribers were using the time before the price hike to extend their memberships at current prices. It seems Sony took notice of this trend—and decided to act faster than planned.

While the early increase currently affects select regions, this could be a sign that more countries will experience a similar change sooner than announced. If you’re thinking of renewing your subscription, now might be the time.

How Much Are the New Prices?

In Turkey, the price increases are significant—reaching up to 63% increases. Here’s how the updated pricing compares:

PlayStation Plus Essential

Monthly: 175₺ → 270₺
3 Months: 440₺ → 710₺
Annual: 1,400₺ → 2,160₺

PlayStation Plus Extra

Monthly: 260₺ → 405₺
3 Months: 720₺ → 1,148₺
Annual: 2,340₺ → 3,645₺

PlayStation Plus Deluxe

Monthly: 305₺ → 474₺
3 Months: 830₺ → 1,354₺
Annual: 2,740₺ → 4,266₺

Meanwhile, in Canada, the prices have also increased, though the percentage jump is slightly lower:

Essential

$11.99/month → $13.99
$29.99/3 months → $34.99
$94.99/year → $109.99

Extra

$17.99/month → $20.99
$49.99/3 months → $55.99
$154.99/year → $189.99

Premium

$21.99/month → $24.99
$59.99/3 months → $68.99
$189.99/year → $224.99

More Countries Could Be Next

The price hike first rolled out in 15 Latin American countries. With Turkey and Canada now affected, Sony’s approach suggests other regions might also see their increases brought forward.

What Should You Do?

If you’re already subscribed or planning to subscribe to PlayStation Plus, it might be a good idea to renew or extend your plan before prices increase in your region—especially now that Sony has shown it’s willing to implement changes ahead of schedule.

We’ll keep you updated if more regions are affected earlier than expected.

New Games Coming to Game Pass Revealed: From GTA V to Call of Duty!

Skyline — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 16:25:01 GMT

xbox game pass call of duty game pass call of duty game pass release date

New Games Coming to Game Pass Revealed: From GTA V to Call of Duty!

Skyline

• April 15, 2025

New Games Coming to Game Pass in April and May Announced

Xbox has revealed the new games coming to Game Pass in April and May. The list includes major titles like the return of GTA V, blockbusters like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II, and brand-new releases. Here are the details:

🎮 Games Coming to Game Pass Starting April 15

Grand Theft Auto V (Cloud, Console, PC) – April 15
Rockstar’s open-world classic GTA V returns to Game Pass. All versions, including GTA Online, are now accessible to Game Pass members.
Neon White (Console) – April 16
Step into the shoes of an assassin chosen from hell to hunt demons in heaven in this fast-paced FPS, arriving on Game Pass April 16.
SpongeBob SquarePants: The Patrick Star Game (Cloud, Console, PC) – April 16
This physics-based comedy adventure starring Patrick turns Bikini Bottom into a playground for players.
Crime Scene Cleaner (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) – April 17
Clean up crime scenes for the mafia in this dark humor-filled simulation game, where you earn money and shape your daughter’s fate.
Tempopo (Cloud, Console, PC) – April 17
Tempopo, a musical puzzle game with a vibrant world and unique rhythm mechanics, joins Game Pass on April 17.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) – April 24
Inspired by France’s Belle Époque era, this turn-based RPG revitalizes the genre with real-time combat mechanics.
Towerborne (Game Preview) (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) – April 29
Play as “Ace,” a warrior protecting the post-apocalyptic Belfry society, in Towerborne, featuring dynamic co-op gameplay.
Far Cry 4 (Cloud, Console, PC) – April 30
Join the rebellion against the tyrannical leader Pagan Min in Kyrat with this open-world classic, arriving on Game Pass at the end of April.
Anno 1800 (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) – May 1
Set during the Industrial Revolution, this city-building and strategy game stands out with its deep economic systems.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II (Cloud, Console, PC) – May 1
Join Task Force 141’s global operations. Dive into the single-player campaign, multiplayer battles, and tactical co-op modes.
Dredge (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) – May 6
What starts as a simple fishing adventure soon reveals dark secrets lurking beneath the surface. Dredge captivates with its atmospheric exploration.

Which games are you planning to play? Share your picks in the comments! 🎮

TES: Oblivion Remastered Leaked! Revamped Classic Set to Return

Skyline — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 15:53:45 GMT

oblivion oblivion remake oblivion remastered

TES: Oblivion Remastered Leaked! Revamped Classic Set to Return

Skyline

• April 15, 2025

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Prepares to Meet Players

Bethesda’s beloved classic The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is making a comeback in a revamped form. Titled Oblivion Remastered, this version gained official confirmation through details leaked on Virtuos’ website, the studio handling the remaster. The game will launch on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation 5. Over the past year, rumors suggested an Oblivion remake was in development. However, today’s leaks confirm it’s a remaster. Don’t be disheartened by the term “remastered”—judging by the leaked visuals, a polished and high-quality experience awaits.

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Release Date Just Around the Corner

Bethesda and Virtuos are expected to shadow-drop the game, similar to Hi-Fi Rush. Whispers suggest an announcement around April 21st (with a possible slight deviation), followed by an immediate release.

What are your thoughts? Do you plan to play it? As a longtime Oblivion fan, I’m eager to dive back in.

Metro 2033 Redux Now Free on Steam – Originally $15!

Skyline — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 20:49:54 GMT

metro 2033 free games free giveaway

Metro 2033 Redux Now Free on Steam – Originally $15!

Skyline

• April 14, 2025

Metro 2033 Redux Free on Steam to Celebrate Series’ 15th Anniversary

Metro 2033, the first game in the iconic post-apocalyptic series, turns 15 this year. To mark the occasion, the enhanced version Metro 2033 Redux is free to claim on Steam for a limited time. Add it to your library by April 16 at 15:00 GMT, and it’s yours to keep forever.

Normally priced at $15, this critically acclaimed survival FPS is free for 48 hours.

New Metro Game Emerges From the Shadow of War

While celebrating the anniversary, developers also shared striking details about the next Metro title. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, which began in 2022, has deeply influenced the game’s narrative. The studio confirmed the conflict’s dark realities have reshaped the story:

“Art has always mirrored life for our team. War, power struggles, oppressive regimes, and the cost of freedom… These are no longer just themes – they’re our daily reality.”

The new Metro game will feature a darker, grittier, and politically charged story inspired by these experiences. Series creator Dmitry Glukhovsky, known for his anti-war stance, remains actively involved despite being sentenced in absentia to 8 years in prison by Russian authorities for criticizing the invasion.

Devs Thank Community in Emotional Message

The development team shared this heartfelt message with fans:

“Thank you for waiting, supporting, and believing – even through our darkest hours. No matter the challenges, we’ll keep moving forward.”

A chilling warning closes the announcement: “This journey will be our hardest yet.”

Bungie Reveals Marathon Gameplay, Release Date, and Ambitious Vision for Its Extraction Shooter

Skyline — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 12:00:00 GMT

Marathon Bungie marathon gameplay

Bungie Reveals Marathon Gameplay, Release Date, and Ambitious Vision for Its Extraction Shooter

Skyline

• April 12, 2025

Bungie Unveils Gameplay and Release Date for New Extraction Shooter Marathon

Bungie has finally pulled back the curtain on Marathon, its first original project in over a decade, with a gameplay showcase confirming a September 23, 2025 release on Steam, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. The game will feature cross-play and cross-save support, uniting players across platforms in its high-stakes PvPvE battles.

Closed Alpha Kicks Off Later This Month

A Closed Alpha Test for Marathon begins in April 23th, and players can sign up for a chance to participate via the official Marathon Discord server. Bungie emphasized that community feedback will directly shape the game’s development, with live Q&As and updates planned throughout the testing phase.

Marathon: A Brutal Fight for Survival on Tau Ceti IV

Set on the enigmatic colony world Tau Ceti IV, Marathon drops players into the role of Runners—cybernetic mercenaries battling rival crews and rogue security forces for loot, upgrades, and answers. Teams of three must scavenge resources, survive ambushes, and escape with their haul to progress. Death resets progress, but successful runs let players keep gear for future matches or risk it all by venturing to the derelict Marathon ship orbiting the planet.

Key Features:

Customizable Runners: Choose from a roster of characters with unique abilities, and tailor loadouts with weapons, implants, and gear scavenged during missions.
Tactical, Fast-Paced Combat: Bungie’s signature gunplay meets extraction-shooter tension, with ranked play and seasonal storytelling post-launch.
Mysteries of Tau Ceti IV: Uncover the fate of the colony’s vanished inhabitants while navigating factions vying for control.

Cinematic Short Teases Marathon’s Dark Universe

The showcase closed with a surprise: an original cinematic short directed by Oscar-winning animator Alberto Mielgo (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse). The film explores themes of “futility and endurance” in the Marathon universe, blending stark visuals with the game’s dystopian tone.
“The concepts here are poetic and mysterious,” Mielgo said. “It’s deeply inspiring and thought-provoking.”

Marathon aims to redefine extraction shooters with Bungie’s signature polish. Will you brave Tau Ceti IV’s dangers?

Sony Announces PS Plus Price Hike in 15 Countries

Skyline — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 18:25:00 GMT

ps plus playstation plus sony

Sony Announces PS Plus Price Hike in 15 Countries

Skyline

• April 10, 2025

PS Plus Subscription Prices to Rise in 15 Countries Starting April 16

Sony has announced a price increase for its PlayStation Plus subscription service, set to take effect on April 16, 2025. The hike will apply to all tiers of the service—Essential, Extra, and Premium—in 15 Latin American countries.

The affected countries include:

Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Costa Rica
Ecuador
El Salvador
Guatemala
Honduras
Mexico
Nicaragua
Panama
Paraguay
Peru
Uruguay

While Sony has not shared the exact percentage or pricing details for each country, the adjustment follows similar moves in other regions last year. This change likely reflects regional inflation, currency fluctuations, and rising operational costs.

This marks yet another step in Sony’s broader re-evaluation of its subscription service, which underwent a major overhaul in 2022 with the launch of the new three-tier structure. As PS Plus continues to evolve with more games and features, players in these regions will soon be paying more to access the service.

More details are expected to be shared via regional PlayStation blogs and direct communications to subscribers in the coming days.

Assassin's Creed Shadows Review

EdgeTypE, Translator:Skyline — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 14:01:59 GMT

Assassin's Creed Shadows Assassin's Creed Shadows review Assassin's Creed Shadows gameplay

Assassin's Creed Shadows Review

EdgeTypE, Translator:Skyline

• April 10, 2025

After 35 hours, I’ve finally finished Assassin’s Creed Shadows, a game that took social media by storm even before its release. I have absolutely no idea how to describe these 35 hours.

Gaming-DB

Assassin's Creed Shadows

I don't know what to say about this game. Did I enjoy playing it? Yes. Is it a good game? No. Is it a quality game? Yes.

pros

cons

Graphics

Two distinct playable characters

Best stealth sections in the series

Music

Mission design

Story and presentation

Character progression system

Lifeless open world

Main story forces side questing

Choices have almost no impact

I don’t know what to say about this game. Did I enjoy playing it? Yes. Is it a good game? No. Is it a quality game? Yes. It feels like part of the game was made by the team behind RDR 2, and the rest by whoever made Erzurum.

When developing a game, how do you proceed? First, you create the core mechanics and establish the basic gameplay loop. What will the character do? You set up a structure like sneaking around and killing enemies. Then you design your levels and story to fit this structure. In this game, nothing beyond the basic structure is good. I have an idea why this happened, but I’ll get to that later.

A Vast But Dead Open World

Assassin’s Creed Shadows takes you to Japan in the 1500s. We control a samurai and a shinobi. There’s a massive open world, but it’s the emptiest open world I’ve seen in recent times. There are random events, but they’d be better off not existing. The NPCs are completely unresponsive. What is an NPC? A “Non-playable character.” Note the word character. None of the NPCs here have any character; they’re just NPs. No C at the end. I drew my sword to see what would happen and stabbed a random person on the street. Not even the slightest reaction.

What’s the common feature of open-world games we appreciate as a player community? Look at RDR 2 or KCD 2. These worlds exist even without your character. Even the smallest character has an impact on the world they live in, a reaction. But here, that’s absolutely not the case. They just stand there. Two people were fishing on a boat; I went and stole their boat. They didn’t even react. It’s like they have lives wasted on nothingness. Empty. And that’s the game’s fundamental problem. Too many things are empty.

Mission Design

In recent years, game missions have been divided into three categories: Main missions, side missions, and aimless activities. All missions in Assassin’s Creed Shadows fall into the last category. No mission has anything special about it. There’s nothing distinguishing a main mission from other pointless tasks. Go, kill this, come back. Then go, kill that, come back. All missions are so identical and empty that the game doesn’t even differentiate between “main missions” and “side missions.” When you open the mission screen, all missions appear side by side without any distinction. These can’t even be called missions. You’re presented with a target board displaying the heads of targets you need to kill. That’s it. I didn’t do anything different in a single mission. Go, kill this, come back. Go, kill that, come back. Go, kill one more, come back.

The only thing that changes is the location. And don’t think the locations are very different either. A castle, another castle. An area in the mountains, another castle.

Story

You might think that since the missions are bad, perhaps the story and its presentation are good and save the game. But no. The story is also bad. In fact, it’s almost non-existent. Most dialogues seem written just to fill silence. Something happens at the beginning of the game related to the story. Something happens at the end. Nothing happens during the 30 hours in between. (Assuming you focus on the main story without side quests, that’s 30 hours)

Yasuke, a loyal servant samurai, and other samurai burn and destroy Naoe’s village on their master’s orders. They slaughter everyone, young and old alike. Naoe loses his loved ones, including his father, and swears revenge. The game starts here. Through a terrible scene, they form a team with the person who caused Naoe to swear revenge, and they try to take down an organization called Shinbakufu. Throughout the game, we have 12 targets that we can eliminate in any order. What does this mean? There’s no flowing narrative. After about 30 hours of taking down these 12 targets, you reach the game’s finale. In the finale, you complete short personal quests for both characters, and the game ends. When I say “ends,” I mean the credits roll. Otherwise, the game remains incomplete. They don’t even finish the half-baked story. They’re probably planning to continue with DLC and such.

So we have a story at the opening. A story at the closing. The rest is a waste of time. I think this game was initially designed as a co-op game. For example, there are places where both characters need to do something simultaneously. You choose one character and don’t see what the other character is doing. There are clearly areas designed for both characters to be played simultaneously. This project was probably a co-op game at first. You would play as the shinobi while your friend played as the samurai, trying to take down these 12 targets. And each character would have their own short mission trees. This would have been the flowing story I mentioned in the finale.

Everything in the game is designed for this. In this kind of co-op game, you wouldn’t want lengthy cutscenes or complicated missions. You’d want something casual to play with your friend. You’d want time-killing activities with clear objectives, like “go kill this many pirates.” When you approach an NPC, you’d want to get the mission quickly, not listen to an hour-long conversation.

But when you convert this to a single-player game, what you’re left with is dozens of hours of simple, repetitive content with no connection to each other beyond being identical.

A Torment: Character Progression

Despite everything I’ve listed, the most annoying thing in the game isn’t one of these. This is a long game. You develop your character throughout the game. How does this normally work in games? You collect skill points and unlock skills in a skill tree with your points. Ubisoft sat down and thought, “How can we ruin this established system that everyone has accepted for years,” and succeeded. They’ve locked the skill tree behind something called a mastery level. There’s a separate skill tree for each weapon and so on, and each level of the skill trees is locked. If your mastery level is 1, you can only unlock the skills in the first row. If it’s two, you can unlock second-level skills, and so on. There are 6 levels. And how do we gain this level, you ask? By searching for pages on the map. Yes, the game says find 4 pages in this temple, find 3 in this castle, find 2 over here. You find these pages, and boom, you gain 1 mastery point. How many do you need for the next mastery level? 10. And this keeps increasing for subsequent levels.

Fire whoever came up with the idea to lock character progression behind such a stupid mechanic. Whoever is the director of this game, or whoever made the important decisions, is hopeless. They’ve made all the wrong decisions. I’ve thought a lot about this: what’s the fundamental problem with this game? I think it’s the management mechanism. Managing a project is a big job; shooting mechanics, graphics and such, anyone can do these. But choosing between what has been done and what will be done, bringing them together, ensuring they are compatible – that’s a difficult job, and whoever did it in this game has failed.

The enemy level mechanic present in the last few Assassin’s Creed games continues in this game as well. If you want to proceed directly through the main story, you can’t gain levels properly. And enemies higher level than you can one-shot you. The game forces you to engage with the other empty activities on the map. Or you’ll play completely stealth-focused like I did. You’ll infiltrate castles stealthily, incapacitate the target, and escape without engaging in combat. This way, the level difference between you and the enemies ceases to be an issue.

Major Warning for Those Who Will Play

When starting the game, it has you adjust some settings. In the normal game, you can’t one-shot enemies with the hidden blade if their level is higher than yours. Thankfully, they’ve included a setting where you can enable one-shot kills. Otherwise, it’s genuinely not worth the hassle.

Another setting is Guided Exploration. If you don’t enable this, the game doesn’t tell you where the mission is. It gives you an approximate location. Like, south of this city, etc. I’m serious, if you play with this setting off, you’ll lose your mind. It’s not worth the suffering.

Between the difficulty of character development and high-level enemies one-shotting you, I started playing the game completely focused on stealth. At some point, the enemies’ levels were so much higher than mine that I had no choice but to go completely stealthy. That’s why I played almost the entire game with Naoe, our shinobi character.

Two Characters, One Game

While Naoe allows you to play stealthily, Yasuke allows you to charge into enemies like a tank. The gameplay difference between the two characters is truly commendable. Naoe moves very easily in stealth but gets easily dispatched when entering combat. Yasuke is the opposite. Literally like a tank. You move slowly, with no possibility for stealth. But you don’t need it. You enter among the enemies and cut down whatever comes your way. Door in your way? Don’t open it, break it. Such a powerful character.

A lot of effort has gone into the two characters. They have different skill trees, different weapons. Their gameplay feels different. The Ubisoft I know would have made 2 games out of this.

But I played almost the entire game with Naoe. There are two reasons for this. The first is what I just mentioned about enemy levels forcing me to play stealth-focused. The second is speed. Yasuke is a very heavy character. He’s also very slow when moving in the open world. What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Assassin’s Creed?

Hidden Blade
Parkour

Yasuke has neither of these. I can let the hidden blade slide since he doesn’t need it. But not being able to parkour is a big problem. He can’t climb almost anywhere. For example, you want to unlock a fast travel point on the map. Classically, you need to climb a building. But you can’t climb with Yasuke. So you’re forced to play as Naoe.

Naoe, on the other hand, is probably the most fluid character I’ve seen in Assassin’s Creed games to date. He has a grappling hook, glides like Spider-Man, jumps here and there. He can lie down and crawl. He has a very fluid gameplay.

But controlling the character is a bit strange. No Assassin’s Creed game has perfect parkour mechanics, but it got much worse after Origins. I often struggle to make the character do what I want. I want to jump down, can’t jump. I want to climb somewhere, can’t climb.

Character control is a bit difficult, and the camera controls are terrible on top of that. I’ve never seen anyone praise a game for good camera control. But I’m going to criticize this one for being bad. The character constantly goes off-screen when fighting in small areas. When moving through mountains and fields, the camera gets stuck on bushes and grass. Thanks to the game world, it’s very difficult to move from one point to another. Even if points are close, the terrain is so mountainous that you decide to climb straight up a mountain rather than take the long way around. And even then, bushes and grass make it difficult. Normally, games make objects transparent when the camera goes inside them or gets too close so that the player can see the character better. They didn’t even do that here. A vast world where travel is already difficult becomes even more tiring if you try to play as Yasuke.

Still, I liked having two different characters. Except for a few missions, the game lets you choose which character to play. Even though I didn’t play much with Yasuke, it was good to know I had the option.

Back to the Story: Story Presentation

Let’s return to the story. It falls apart no matter how we approach it, but let’s return anyway. I’m skipping questions like “What is this man doing here?”, there are too many inconsistencies. They said this game would start a new modern-day story. So where is this modern-day story? They killed the modern-day story with Black Flag. So many games have come and gone, and Ubisoft still can’t figure it out.

Nothing happens in modern times, and Ubisoft, not knowing what to do, has you talk to the Animus AI for 5-10 minutes throughout the entire game. That’s it. Ubisoft clearly can’t get out of this mess. This series needs a reboot or something. Mr. Ubisoft, if you’re looking for someone to manage the reboot project, I, Edige Tigin, am at your service.

After Origins, Assassins and Templars began to play less significant roles in Assassin’s Creed games. This absurdity continues in this game. I initially thought Naoe would be an Assassin and Yasuke a Templar. That they would clash in the finale and so on, but that didn’t happen either.

Okay, the story is bad, but perhaps you’d say the presentation is good. Maybe there are nice-looking scenes and such, but no. There’s a scene in the story where we need to lose, how do you design such a scene? You make the opponent’s health very high, increase their attack speed, reduce the controlled character’s health and damage. They didn’t do anything like this. Even if you beat your opponent, a scene plays as if you’ve lost. The presentation is bad, but I’m not entirely sure. No matter how much you dress it up, crap is crap in the end.

I was about to enter a boss fight. The game asked me which character I wanted to play as. I chose Naoe. Yasuke said, “I’ll wait outside.” Okay. The boss fight started, and I saw the boss summoning shinobi to help him. What is Yasuke doing outside? The boss fight ended, a cutscene began. Yasuke is in the room again. What did you do, fall asleep in the back? Did you have an upset stomach?

There are choices in the game, which is good. But their effects are very questionable. What are choices for? To have an impact. Now I have the option to forgive or kill my enemy. I forgive them, they still die. Or I choose to kill, and they’re still forgiven. What’s the point?

Kicking Someone Who’s Already Down?

Wondering if I was being too critical, I reinstalled Assassin’s Creed 2 from 2009. I found a save file online starting from the middle of the game. Despite so many years since its release, that half hour was better than my entire Assassin’s Creed Shadows experience.

I started playing through the game, Ezio and Leonardo da Vinci had gone to a new city. A guide was showing us around the city. At the beginning of the tour, we saw soldiers attacking a merchant in the background.

Then, some time passed, and at the end of the tour, we saw the same merchant going to report the soldiers who attacked him. The soldiers arrested him, inventing a law out of thin air.

Then Ezio goes to investigate what happened. In just half an hour, even 15-20 minutes, more coherent, more organized things happened than in the entirety of Assassin’s Creed Shadows.

This is the biggest problem with new Assassin’s Creed games. Instead of trying to tell a coherent story, they try to create something you can sink many hours into. I finished the main story in 32 hours, and then played up to 40 hours to get footage for the review. But if you say, “I’m going to do everything, play for 100 hours,” you’ll probably go insane from boredom. The game has no content variety. Note, I’m not saying there’s little content variety; I’m saying there is none.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is not a terrible game. In fact, it’s very high quality in some aspects. I personally enjoyed playing it. The graphics are very good, the hair is very good. You might wonder why I specifically mention hair. Some things that are very simple in the real world are very difficult to create in a digital environment. Fluid physics, cloth physics, and such. Hair physics is one of them. And I can definitely say the best hair I’ve ever seen in any game was in this one. The game is generally successful in such technical aspects. It has dynamic seasonal transitions. They have small effects on gameplay but completely change the visuals. Especially when it snows, the game looks very, very good.

Conclusion

To summarize, Assassin’s Creed is a game that does a few things very well and ruins everything else. But at the end of the day, this game managed to make itself playable. I think there’s only one reason for this: the Hidden Blade. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing especially special about the Hidden Blade in the game. I just love the concept of sneaking into an enemy base, taking out my target with a single, cool move, and escaping, and Assassin’s Creed games do this very, very well.

Gaming-DB

Assassin's Creed Shadows

I don't know what to say about this game. Did I enjoy playing it? Yes. Is it a good game? No. Is it a quality game? Yes.

pros

cons

Graphics

Two distinct playable characters

Best stealth sections in the series

Music

Mission design

Story and presentation

Character progression system

Lifeless open world

Main story forces side questing

Choices have almost no impact

Is Titanfall 3 Coming? All the Details!

EdgeTypE, Skyline — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 11:38:46 GMT

titanfall 3 will titanfall 3 be released titanfall 3 release date

Is Titanfall 3 Coming? All the Details!

EdgeTypE, Skyline

• April 10, 2025

It’s been nearly a decade since Titanfall 2 launched. Over the years, numerous Titanfall 3 rumors have surfaced. From what we’ve gathered from reliable sources, Respawn Entertainment did work on Titanfall 3 at one point but later canceled it. However, recent leaks suggest Titanfall 3 might be back in development.

April 1-3, 2025: Not Just an April Fools’ Joke

YOROTSUKI_, a Twitter user known for leaking Apex Legends (Respawn’s online game set in the Titanfall universe), claimed on April 1st as an “April Fools’ joke” that Titanfall 3 was in development.

The same user later posted on April 3rd, clarifying that the “joke” was actually real. They alleged that Titanfall 3 is indeed in development and will be announced at The Game Awards 2025, with a planned 2026 release.

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The leaker stated they first heard about this in December 2024 and collaborated with another Apex Legends insider, Osvaldatore, to verify the claims.

April 9, 2025: New Details Emerge

Osvaldatore took to Twitter to share that Titanfall 3’s development is nearly complete. According to their leak, the game will feature both a campaign and multiplayer modes, built on Unreal Engine 5, with live-service elements like battle passes to keep multiplayer engagement high.

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They added that their source was “100% certain” about all details except the exact release date.

April 9, 2025: The Plot Thickens

Shortly after, renowned industry insider Jeff Grubb debunked the rumors, stating that Titanfall 3 is not in development and calling the leaks “false.”

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Our Take

As much as we want Titanfall 3 to be real, it seems unlikely for now. However, we’re hopeful it’ll happen someday. EA has recently shifted focus toward prioritizing its own franchises over licensed IPs. Respawn, having spent years on Star Wars titles, might finally return to Titanfall once they step away from the galaxy far, far away. Until then, pilots, keep those jump kits ready—just in case.

Austin Major 2025 Teams Announced: Vitality, Aurora, and MongolZ Lead Direct Invites

Skyline — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 09:30:00 GMT

BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025 CS2 esports Team Vitality

Austin Major 2025 Teams Announced: Vitality, Aurora, and MongolZ Lead Direct Invites

Skyline

• April 7, 2025

Austin Major Invites Revealed for Counter-Strike 2’s Premier Tournament

Valve has announced the team invites for the BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025, marking the first Major tournament for Counter-Strike 2. Following the Regional Standings adjustment released on April 7, 16 teams have locked in direct invitations to the event. Eight of these squads will jump straight into Stage 3, bypassing the initial Swiss stages, while another eight will kick off in Stage 2. The rest of the lineup will battle it out in regional qualifiers this April.

Stage 3: The Elite Eight

These teams have earned their spot in Stage 3, skipping the early grind:

Vitality (Europe)
Spirit (Europe)
Natus Vincere (Europe)
Liquid (Americas)
MOUZ (Europe)
Aurora (Europe)
G2 (Europe)
The MongolZ (Asia)

This group represents the cream of the crop, with heavy hitters like Vitality and Natus Vincere leading the European charge, Liquid holding it down for the Americas, and The MongolZ flying the flag for Asia.

Stage 2: The Next Wave

Another eight teams will enter the fray in Stage 2:

Falcons (Europe)
3DMAX (Europe)
FaZe (Europe)
Virtus.pro (Europe)
paiN (Americas)
MIBR (Americas)
FURIA (Americas)
M80 (Americas)

Falcons are stealing headlines here, with rumors swirling that star AWPer Ilya “m0NESY” Osipov could join their roster in a massive move. Meanwhile, the Americas bring a Brazilian trio—paiN, MIBR, and FURIA—alongside the U.S.-based M80.

Regional Qualifiers: The Road to Austin

The remaining Major slots will be up for grabs in six regional MRQ tournaments this April. Here’s the rundown:

Europe MRQ: 16 teams, 6 spots
- Standouts: Astralis, HEROIC, ENCE, BIG
- Dates: April 14-17
South America MRQ: 8 teams, 3 spots
- Key names: Imperial, Legacy, RED Canids
- Dates: April 15-17
North America MRQ: 8 teams, 3 spots
- Favorites: Complexity, NRG, Nouns
- Dates: April 15-17
China MRQ: 4 teams, 2 spots
- Teams: Rare Atom, Lynn Vision, TYLOO, DogEvil
- Dates: April 15-17
Oceania MRQ: 4 teams, 1 spot
- Teams: SemperFi, ex-TALON, FlyQuest, Rooster
- Dates: April 15-17
Asia MRQ: 4 teams, 1 spot
- Teams: The Huns, ATOX, Chinggis Warriors, Eruption
- Dates: April 15-17

A quick note: ATOX’s spot in the Asia MRQ hangs in the balance due to a provisional ESIC suspension—stay tuned for updates on that front.

When and Where

The BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025 will unfold over June in Austin, Texas, with the following schedule:

Stage 1: June 2-5
Stage 2: June 7-10
Main Event: June 12-22

With the invites set and qualifiers on the horizon, the Counter-Strike 2 scene is gearing up for an epic showdown. Who’s your pick to take the title?

Prime Gaming April 2025 Free Games Revealed! Mafia 3, Minecraft Legends...

Skyline — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 17:23:27 GMT

Prime Gaming April 2025 free games Mafia III Definitive Edition Minecraft Legends Xbox

Prime Gaming April 2025 Free Games Revealed! Mafia 3, Minecraft Legends...

Skyline

• April 3, 2025

Prime Gaming April 2025 Free Games

Prime Gaming subscribers can now claim a fresh batch of free games for April 2025. Add these titles to your library throughout the month. Here’s the full lineup:

Available Now

Mafia III: Definitive Edition (GOG Code) – As Lincoln Clay, a Vietnam War veteran, rebuild your family through vengeance after the Italian Mafia murders your loved ones. Forge alliances and ignite a brutal war against the criminal underworld.
Minecraft Legends (Xbox & PC - Microsoft Store Code) – The corruption of Piglins from the Nether threatens the Overworld! Rally allies, strategize attacks, and defend your territory.
Gravity Circuit (Amazon Games App) – A retro-inspired 2D action platformer where Kai battles rogue robots in a cybernetic world.
Paleo Pines (Amazon Games App) – Build a farm, befriend dinosaurs, and explore a charming island in this cozy adventure.
Clouds & Sheep 2 (Amazon Games App) – Manage adorable sheep, complete quests, and keep your fluffy friends happy in this whimsical sequel.

Free Starting April 10th

DreadOut 2 (Amazon Games App) – Survive supernatural horrors inspired by Indonesian folklore as high school student Linda.
ENDLESS™ Space – Definitive Edition (Amazon Games App) – Conquer galaxies and lead your civilization to dominance in this grand strategy epic.
God’s Trigger (GOG Code) – Team up as an Angel and a Demon to unleash carnage and prevent the apocalypse.
New York Mysteries: Power of Art Collector’s Edition (Legacy Games Code) – Solve cryptic puzzles and uncover secrets behind stolen paintings in 1950s New York.
Projection: First Light (Amazon Games App) – Guide Greta through a shadow-puppet world inspired by global mythologies.
Faraway: Director’s Cut (Amazon Games App) – Decipher ancient puzzles in mysterious temples across 18 immersive levels.

Free Starting April 17th

Gloomhaven (Epic Games Store) – Lead a mercenary squad through deadly dungeons in this acclaimed tactical RPG.
The Last Spell (GOG Code) – Defend your city against waves of enemies in this roguelite tactical RPG.
Fashion Police Squad (Epic Games Store) – Fight fashion crimes with style-enhancing weapons in this satirical FPS.
Genesis Noir (Amazon Games App) – Stop the Big Bang and save your cosmic love in this noir-inspired adventure.
Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain (GOG Code) – Embark on a dark quest for vengeance as the vampire Kain.
Berserk Boy (GOG Code) – Harness elemental powers to save the planet in this high-speed action-platformer.
The Last Show of Mr. Chardish (Epic Games Store) – Uncover secrets in an abandoned theater through surreal puzzles.
Wild Country (GOG Code) – Build towns and collect cards in this relaxing strategy game.

Free Starting April 24th

Thief™ Gold (GOG Code) – Master stealth and thievery in a gritty medieval steampunk world.
Troublemaker (Epic Games Store) – Rise through the ranks as a street-fighting high school student.
Kraken Academy!! (Amazon Games App) – Team up with a magical kraken to save your school from chaos.
Priest Simulator: Vampire Show (Epic Games Store) – Unleash absurd vampire-slaying mayhem in this sandbox shooter.

Note: Games are claimable by Prime Gaming members on their respective release dates. Once claimed, they’re yours to keep forever!

GTA V Returns to Game Pass: Xbox and PC Players Rejoice!

Skyline — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 15:17:21 GMT

Grand Theft Auto V Game Pass GTA V Xbox Game Pass GTA V April 15 release

GTA V Returns to Game Pass: Xbox and PC Players Rejoice!

Skyline

• April 3, 2025

Grand Theft Auto V Returns to Game Pass on April 15th!

Rockstar’s iconic game Grand Theft Auto V is making a comeback to the Xbox Game Pass library after a long hiatus. According to Xbox’s official announcement, starting April 15, GTA V will be available to play via Game Pass and PC Game Pass.

Enhanced Edition for PC Players

This time, PC players will also gain access to the GTA V Enhanced Edition. Available through PC Game Pass, this version includes new features like Hao’s Special Works vehicles, Chameleon Paints, and other upgrades.

Cross-Platform Play Simplified in GTA Online

While playing GTA Online, ensure you and your friends are using the same game version. However, Game Pass subscribers can switch seamlessly between PC and console editions. PC Game Pass users can also play together with players on Steam and Epic Games, thanks to integrated cross-platform support.

Game Pass Ultimate Perks

Subscribers to Game Pass Ultimate will enjoy exclusive benefits, including early access to select in-game content and discounts on future expansions. Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches!

Download GTA V on April 15 and dive back into Los Santos with enhanced visuals, new missions, and endless multiplayer chaos—all included in your Game Pass subscription!

April 2025 Xbox Game Pass Lineup Revealed! Borderlands 3, Diablo III, and More!

Skyline — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 18:50:05 GMT

Xbox Game Pass April 2025 xbox game pass game pass

April 2025 Xbox Game Pass Lineup Revealed! Borderlands 3, Diablo III, and More!

Skyline

• April 2, 2025

Xbox Game Pass April 2025 Lineup Announced!

Microsoft has revealed the games joining the Xbox Game Pass library in April 2025. Standout titles include Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition, Diablo III: Reaper of Souls – Ultimate Evil Edition, and South of Midnight. Here’s the complete list:

🎮 New Games Coming to Game Pass

🗓 April 3

Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition (Cloud, Console, PC)
All You Need is Help (Console, Game Pass Standard)
Still Wakes the Deep (Xbox Series X|S, Game Pass Standard)
Wargroove 2 (Console, Game Pass Standard)

🗓 April 8

Diablo III: Reaper of Souls – Ultimate Evil Edition (Console, PC)
South of Midnight (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S)

🗓 April 9

Commandos: Origins (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S)

🗓 April 10

Blue Prince (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S)

🗓 April 15

Hunt: Showdown 1896 (PC)

Highlighted Games

🎯 Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition (April 3)

Guns, chaos, and mayhem! Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition includes the base game, four major expansions, Director’s Cut content, and all cosmetic packs. Choose from four unique Vault Hunters and battle the galaxy’s most ruthless cult leaders solo or with friends.

🏴‍☠️ Diablo III: Reaper of Souls – Ultimate Evil Edition (April 8)

This edition combines Diablo III and the Reaper of Souls expansion, letting you create a hero from six distinct classes and embark on an epic quest. Collect legendary loot, master powerful abilities, and purge the world of demons!

🌌 South of Midnight (April 8 – Day One on Game Pass!)

Developed by Compulsion Games, South of Midnight is an atmospheric action-adventure game rooted in American Southern folklore. Face mysterious creatures, uncover ancient powers, and confront your haunted past.

🔥 Commandos: Origins (April 9 – Day One on Game Pass!)

Return to the roots of the legendary Commandos series with stealth-focused tactical missions starring six iconic operatives. Infiltrate enemy lines with 2-player co-op support!

🏚 Blue Prince (April 10 – Day One on Game Pass!)

Explore the shape-shifting Mt. Holly Manor in this puzzle-driven adventure. Navigate procedurally generated rooms to uncover the secrets of Mystery Room #46.

🎯 Hunt: Showdown 1896 (April 15)

The iconic bounty-hunting franchise Hunt: Showdown travels back to 1896. Survive Gothic horror-themed maps while battling monsters and rival players in this intense multiplayer experience.

Xbox Game Pass continues to grow with exciting new titles! Which games are you planning to play?

Best Free Single-Player Games You Can Play Alone

Skyline — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 08:26:20 GMT

free games best free games free single-player games

Best Free Single-Player Games You Can Play Alone

Skyline

• April 2, 2025

Free Steam Games You Can Play Solo

As game prices keep rising, we’ve compiled a list of free games you can enjoy alone. These titles prioritize single-player experiences, perfect for offline or online play. Let’s dive in!

The Murder of Sonic the Hedgehog (PC)

SEGA’s 2023 April Fools’ Day surprise turned out to be a hidden gem. Set during Amy Rose’s birthday party on a train, this visual novel tasks you with solving Sonic’s murder by gathering clues and interrogating characters. While it lacks Turkish localization, its simple English makes it accessible to most players.

Fallout Shelter (PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Android, iOS)

This addictive base-building game starts deceptively simple. Manage your underground vault, assign dwellers to jobs, and survive post-apocalyptic threats. I once installed it for a trip with no internet—ended up hooked for weeks. No prior Fallout knowledge needed!

The Sims 4 (PC, Mac)

The quintessential life simulator went free-to-play in 2022. Create characters, build homes, and shape virtual lives through careers, relationships, and drama. While DLCs cost extra, the base game offers endless storytelling potential.

Crusader Kings II (PC, Mac, Linux)

Rule a medieval dynasty in this grand strategy title from Paradox Interactive. Scheme, marry, wage wars, and expand your realm across centuries of gameplay. The free base game lacks DLC features but remains deeply engaging.

DELTARUNE (PC, Mac)

From Undertale’s creator Toby Fox, this episodic RPG’s first two chapters are free. Expect quirky characters, bullet-dodging combat, and meta-humor. A must-play for Undertale fans.

Endless Sky (PC, Mac, Linux)

A 2D space sandbox where you trade, fight pirates, and build fleets across procedurally generated galaxies. Steep learning curve but immensely rewarding for strategy enthusiasts.

OpenTTD (PC, Mac, Linux)

The open-source remake of Transport Tycoon Deluxe lets you build sprawling transport networks with trains, planes, and ships. Pixel-art graphics meet deep economic simulation—mod support extends replayability infinitely.

BONUS: The Finals (PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S)

A tactical FPS exception: Teams battle in fully destructible arenas. Though multiplayer-focused, its unique 3-4 team chaos and environmental destruction deserve a shoutout. Developed by ex-Battlefield creators.

Got more free game recommendations? Share them in the comments!

April 2025 Game Releases: The Last of Us Part II Comes to PC!

MikeIV — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 16:41:57 GMT

2025 PC games PS5 game releases April 2025 games

April 2025 Game Releases: The Last of Us Part II Comes to PC!

MikeIV

• April 1, 2025

2025 is racing forward. April has already begun. We’ve listed this month’s upcoming games for you.

The Last of Us Part II Remastered – April 3 (PC)

Naughty Dog’s award-winning action-adventure comes to PC with enhanced graphics. Witness Ellie and Abby’s brutal survival journey in a post-apocalyptic world. This remastered edition offers improved visuals and deeper emotional impact, plunging you into a tension-filled narrative.

Tetris The Grand Master 4: Absolute Eye – April 3 (PC)

The legendary puzzle series returns with competitive new mechanics and visuals. Challenge your reflexes and strategic thinking in this ultimate test for Tetris masters. A must-play for puzzle enthusiasts.

Ekoh Beach – April 4 (PC)

Manage your own beach resort in this charming simulation game. With cheerful graphics and relaxing vibes, develop your paradise while keeping guests happy. Perfect for players craving sunny escapism.

Ixion – April 8 (PS5, XSX)

Command a space station to save humanity in this deep space strategy game. Balance resource management and survival through tough decisions. A sci-fi masterpiece for tactical minds.

South of Midnight – April 8 (XSX, PC)

Compulsion Games’ action-adventure set in mystical Southern America. Play as Hazel to uncover dark secrets through a haunting narrative. Standout art style meets gripping storytelling.

Blue Prince – April 10 (PS5, PC)

Solve intricate puzzles to restore a lost kingdom in this cerebral adventure. Combines creative mechanics with an emotionally charged storyline to spark imagination.

Snow Bros. 2 Special – April 10 (Switch, PC)

Remastered arcade fun with Nick and Tom! Freeze enemies into snowballs in this retro platformer. Colorful visuals and co-op gameplay deliver pure nostalgia.

The Talos Principle: Reawakened – April 10 (PS5, XSX)

Guide a robot through philosophical puzzles in ancient ruins. A mind-bending experience blending existential themes with clever puzzle design.

Lushfoil Photography Sim – April 15 (PS4/5, XBO/XSX)

Capture breathtaking landscapes in this meditative photography simulator. Realistic visuals meet therapeutic gameplay for nature enthusiasts.

I, Robot – April 17 (PS4/5, XBO/XSX)

(No relation to Asimov’s work) Control a combat android against humanity’s threats. Fast-paced action meets cybernetic spectacle in this adrenaline-packed shooter.

Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree – April 17 (PS5, XSX)

Dark fantasy RPG with deep customization and epic boss battles. Forge your path against corruption in this richly crafted world.

RUSTY RABBIT – April 17 (PS5, Switch, PC)

Hop through vibrant worlds as an adorable mechanical bunny. Family-friendly platforming with cheerful challenges.

Lunar Remastered Collection – April 18 (PS4/5, XBO/XSX)

The classic JRPG series returns with HD upgrades. Relive the epic journey with modern enhancements for new and returning fans.

Tempest Rising – April 24 (PC)

Futuristic RTS with intense base-building and warfare. Shape the battlefield through strategic decisions in this competitive thriller.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – April 24 (PC, PS5, XSX)

Action-RPG with squad-based combat against cosmic horrors. Features punishing boss fights and narrative depth.

Days Gone Remastered – April 25 (PS5)

The joke became reality.

Forza Horizon 5 – April 29 (PS5)

Xbox’s flagship racer hits PS5! Cruise through Mexico’s stunning landscapes with enhanced visuals and 60+ cars.

Skin Deep – April 30 (PC)

Solve a chilling murder mystery through environmental storytelling. Atmospheric detective work meets narrative-driven puzzles.

MotoGP 25 – April 30 (PS4/5, XBO/XSX)

Authentic motorcycle racing with updated bikes and tracks. Realistic physics and VR support for racing purists.

Monaco 2 – April TBA (PS5, XSX)

Heist-based stealth action with team coordination. Perfect your strategies in this multiplayer-focused sequel.

Which game are you most excited about this month?

April 1st Update for Counter-Strike 2 (Not a Joke)

Skyline — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 07:42:57 GMT

Counter-Strike 2 Counter-Strike 2 Spring Update CS2 2025 update

April 1st Update for Counter-Strike 2 (Not a Joke)

Skyline

• April 1, 2025

Counter-Strike 2 Spring Update: New Collections and Map Optimizations

Valve has rolled out a non-joke April 1st, 2025 update for Counter-Strike 2, introducing fresh weapon collections and major map overhauls to enhance gameplay.

Armory Updates

The update adds the following to the Armory:

Train 2025 Collection: Inspired by the revamped Train map, this collection features designs referencing the map’s graffiti and key locations.
Fever Case: Contains 17 community-contributed weapon skins and Shattered Web knives with Chroma finishes.
Limited Edition XM1014 | Solitude: Honestly, it looks pretty bad compared to the previous Desert Eagle. (We’re not joking.)

Map Overhauls

The Inferno and Train maps have received critical adjustments to refine player experience.

Key changes to Inferno:

Banana area expanded to closely resemble its CS:GO counterpart. (This is likely the most impactful change, altering B-site entry dynamics.)
Simplified visuals for T ramp, Pit, and B bombsite backgrounds.
Stairs near Arch corridor removed.
Fixed a pixel gap in the Coffin area.
Adjusted crates on the balcony stairs for smoother movement.
Tweaked player and bomb collisions across the map. (Social media is buzzing about bugs where players spawn inside each other.)

Key changes to Train:

Fixed player shadow visibility through windows near A main entrance.
Simplified back walls in the Z door corridor.
Streamlined visuals for Upper B entrance.
Shortened roof rails on A site for easier utility throws.
Replaced transparent grating on the Z door catwalk.
Swapped transparent fences in Ivy with solid versions.
Simplified brick walls near Ivy.
Fixed bomb collision on the Upper B arch.

What are your thoughts on the update?

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II Review

EdgeTypE, MikeIV(Translator) — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 14:01:59 GMT

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Review Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 review

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II Review

EdgeTypE, MikeIV(Translator)

• March 28, 2025

Following the events of the first game’s conclusion, Henry and Hans Capon set out on what they assume will be a simple courier mission. Naturally, things don’t go as planned.

Gaming-DB

MASTERPIECE

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II

MASTERPIECE

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II

A cinematic masterpiece from start to finish. A seamless story. Masterful gameplay.

pros

cons

RPG experience

Story and presentation

Atmosphere

Movie-quality cutscenes

Save system

After a long journey, I finally completed Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, and I can confidently say I didn’t expect it to be this good. I loved playing and finishing the first game in the series, but when I saw the initial reviews for the sequel, I thought people were exaggerating. The original Kingdom Come: Deliverance didn’t garner the same level of popularity as this second installment, and many of those singing its praises hadn’t even played the first game. I assumed Kingdom Come: Deliverance II was just a slightly improved version of its predecessor, hyped up beyond reason.

In the first few hours of gameplay, I felt validated in my skepticism. But then, the game kept raising the bar with every passing moment. I mean, I’ve done blacksmithing, worked in a labor camp, witnessed torture, and even played as a commander deciding which soldiers to sacrifice—all in this one game!

A Perfect Sequel to the First Game

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II is a flawless continuation of the original. They’ve built upon everything from the first game, and I can’t think of a single aspect where I’d say the predecessor did it better. It’s still challenging, incredibly realistic, and absolutely brilliant.

What sets Kingdom Come: Deliverance apart from other games is its unrelenting realism. You experience all the struggles and hardships a medieval peasant would face. Early in the game, I found myself stranded in an unfamiliar region with nothing to my name. Bandits raided my camp, and the city guards mistook me for a vagrant and threw me in stocks. No money, no job, no place to sleep—I felt like a modern-day broke youth. But I wasn’t there to wander aimlessly; I had a mission to deliver a message to a lord named Otto von Bergow. The problem? I couldn’t even get into the castle because they thought I was a beggar. I had to find a way to meet this lord.

I learned that the lord would be attending a noble’s wedding. If I could somehow get myself into that wedding, I’d have a shot at speaking with him. But they weren’t about to let just anyone waltz in. So, I started working as an apprentice for a blacksmith preparing gifts for the wedding. Of course, he wasn’t going to take me on without proof of my worth. I told him, “My father was a blacksmith; I need this job.” To test me, he asked me to forge a sword. And forge it I did—but how I did it is the real story.

I gathered the iron, melted it down, shaped it with a mold, and then hammered the heated metal into a finely crafted blade. I’m talking serious blacksmithing here—I picked up a hammer and forged that sword step by step. Normally, you’d expect a quest like this to involve collecting materials and pressing a single button to finish the job, right? That’s what I thought too. But no—this game had me pounding out a sword like a pro. I learned the finer points of blacksmithing and can now forge a sword!

The blacksmith liked my work and started me off with simple errands. Eventually, I graduated to tougher tasks. He mentioned he once had two other apprentices who’d set out to make a delivery for the wedding but never returned. So, I tracked them down.

Along the way, I met the groom’s father and networked with everyone I could, securing my spot at the wedding. The big day arrived, but just as I was about to head out, the blacksmith stopped me. “What’s with those rags? You can’t go to a wedding looking like that—go clean yourself up!” Fair enough, but I didn’t have any other clothes. Buying new ones wasn’t an option either—no money. So, I “borrowed” some from someone else. After all, necessity breeds creativity.

Finally, I made it to the wedding. I waited and waited for the lord to show up—but he didn’t. Frustrated, I accidentally sparked a fight at the event and ended up in a labor camp. While working there, I managed to find a way to speak with the lord at last.

This game takes you from unexpected lows to even more surprising highs. Almost every quest follows this pattern—nothing is ever a simple “done and dusted” task. They all grow complex and veer off into new directions.

At one point, I infiltrated an enemy military camp by posing as a young recruit eager to join their ranks. They gave me a task to prove myself: some of their soldiers had been sent on a mission and never returned, and I needed to find out what happened and retrieve a letter they were carrying. I searched high and low and eventually found them. Tired of fighting and risking their lives, they’d deserted and were living off the grid. When they saw me, they nearly attacked, but I calmed them down: “Relax, I just need the letter—I won’t rat you out.”

That made sense to them, so they handed over the letter. I hopped on my horse, rode back to camp, and delivered it. They asked what happened to the soldiers, and I snitched. I mean, I’m an undercover agent—I need to earn their trust. “They’ve set up camp over there; I snuck in and grabbed the letter,” I said. Last I saw, they were sending a squad to take them out.

Gameplay

In terms of gameplay, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II doesn’t stray too far from the first game. It’s more of a refined and slightly enhanced version of the original system. There’s no single addition that made me go, “Wow, this is a game-changer!” The biggest tweak is in combat: while the first game allowed attacks from five directions, this one reduces it to four by merging the two lower directions, simplifying the system a bit.

They’ve also added crossbows and primitive firearms. Using a crossbow is a blast—its animations are spot-on—but I can’t say the same for the firearms. True to history, they’re clunky and painfully slow. By the time you fire a shot, your enemy’s already slicing you up with a sword. They’re also tricky to control, so I barely touched them. The crossbow, though? Absolute perfection—it’s so immersive I’d feel outdone using a real one.

Masterful Direction

Speaking of immersion, this game pulls you in like few others. Every detail is meticulously crafted, with nothing overlooked. The cutscenes feel like watching a movie. I said the same about the Indiana Jones game, but Kingdom Come: Deliverance II takes it to another level. I’ve never seen cutscenes this cinematic—they’d fit right into a theater. The voice acting, performances, and camera angles? Flawless. In a word: perfection. Pure cinema.

The first game had great cutscenes, but now they’ve perfected them. There’s masterful direction at play here. Occasionally, you control a second character, and the transitions between the two are so seamless I couldn’t help but applaud.

I’m holding back spoilers, but trust me, there’s so much more I could say.

At one point, you’re captured by bandits, and the game switches to another character. This new character investigates what happened to you, learning that bandits ambushed a convoy and executed nearly everyone except a couple of nobles. For a moment, I thought our main character, Henry, had been killed in the execution, and we’d continue the game as this new character.

Everyone involved in this project poured their heart into it—you can feel their dedication. A prime example is Luke Dale, who plays Hans Capon. The guy even changed his social media usernames to his character’s name!

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II isn’t a big-budget blockbuster. Its budget sits at $30–40 million—by comparison, that’s less than a tenth of Cyberpunk 2077’s budget. For a relatively modest production, the quality is staggering.

Low-budget games often pour their resources into one area and skimp on the rest just to get by. Not here—Kingdom Come: Deliverance II excels in every department. I’m currently playing Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and its main character’s performance doesn’t even match a side character from this game.

Big players like PlayStation and Xbox have been griping about rising development costs, but this game proves you can do wonders on a smaller budget. Lately, studios in Europe and America have hit an economic wall—ballooning budgets and development times haven’t matched the quality of output. Here’s hoping Kingdom Come: Deliverance II inspires more games like it.

And don’t think its lower budget means a short game. Focusing on the main story with minimal side quests, I finished it in 50 hours. With side content, it easily hits 100 hours. At first, the map felt smaller than the first game’s, but then I discovered there’s a second map. About 40% of the game takes place on the first map, with 60% on the second. You can revisit the first for side quests, but the main story doesn’t require backtracking.

Finding a Flaw to Keep the Format

I write my reviews in a specific format: listing pros, cons, and a score. The pros were easy to write, but when it came to cons, I drew a blank. An empty cons section messed up the layout, so I decided to nitpick the save system.

You can’t save whenever you want. The game either auto-saves during quests, saves when you sleep in a bed, or lets you save by drinking a rare potion called Savior Schnapps—which isn’t easy to come by, especially early on. You’re playing, making progress, and then a group of bandits kills you—bam, you’re back at sunrise. It’s frustrating. My workaround? I’d quit and restart the game before risky moves since it auto-saves on exit. Pro tip: try it.

Conclusion

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II completes the first game’s unfinished story as a cinematic masterpiece from start to finish. It’s a strong contender for Game of the Year. If you love realistic games, I wholeheartedly recommend it—but don’t play it without experiencing the first game. This is a direct sequel, and while it tries to recap the original’s events, it’s not enough. There’s a neat opening sequence where you revisit your choices from the first game.

“Remember when this happened? What did you do back then?” it asks, letting you reselect key decisions while summarizing the past. Still, a brief recap can’t fully capture the first game’s depth.

The story picks up just two days after the first game’s finale. Hans Capon and Henry, who embarked on a journey at the end of the original, arrive at their destination as this game begins. I’ve seen folks online say you can skip the first game, but I strongly disagree.

And finally, audentes fortuna iuvat—fortune favors the bold.

Gaming-DB

MASTERPIECE

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II

MASTERPIECE

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II

A cinematic masterpiece from start to finish. A seamless story. Masterful gameplay.

pros

cons

RPG experience

Story and presentation

Atmosphere

Movie-quality cutscenes

Save system

Ubisoft and Tencent Expand Strategic Partnership with New Subsidiary

Skyline — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 18:01:47 GMT

Tencent Ubisoft €1.16 billion investment

Ubisoft and Tencent Expand Strategic Partnership with New Subsidiary

Skyline

• March 27, 2025

Tencent Invests €1.16 Billion in Ubisoft’s New Subsidiary

Ubisoft has partnered with Chinese tech giant Tencent to establish a new subsidiary, valued at $4.3 billion, which will manage major franchises like Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Rainbow Six. Tencent will acquire a 25% stake in the subsidiary through a €1.16 billion investment.

A New Era for Ubisoft

Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot called this move a “fundamental step” in transforming the company’s operational model, stating, “Ubisoft is opening a new chapter in its history today. This step will enable us to remain both agile and ambitious.”

The subsidiary will not only oversee existing IPs but also manage upcoming game developments. Ubisoft plans to use the proceeds to reduce debt and invest in other projects.

Details of the New Subsidiary

The subsidiary will retain rights to Ubisoft’s flagship franchises, including:

Assassin’s Creed
Far Cry
Rainbow Six
Ghost Recon
The Division
The Crew

Ubisoft’s Struggles and Tencent’s Strategic Play

Ubisoft has faced financial challenges in recent years, exacerbated by the underperformance of Star Wars Outlaws and the abrupt shutdown of XDefiant within a year of launch.

A Ray of Hope: Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Assassin’s Creed Shadows, released last week, was seen as Ubisoft’s potential turnaround title. Despite mixed reviews, the company announced the game has already attracted 3 million players, signaling a possible rebound.

Financial and Strategic Implications

The Tencent deal allows Ubisoft to stabilize its finances while retaining creative control over its IPs. With Tencent’s backing, Ubisoft aims to accelerate development of new titles and expand its footprint in the competitive gaming market.

Stay tuned for updates on Ubisoft’s evolving strategy and Tencent’s growing influence in the global gaming industry.

CD Projekt Red Focuses on The Witcher 4! Company Releases 2024 Financial Report

Skyline — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 19:08:56 GMT

CD Projekt Red The Witcher 4 Project Polaris

CD Projekt Red Focuses on The Witcher 4! Company Releases 2024 Financial Report

Skyline

• March 25, 2025

CD Projekt Red Shifts Focus to The Witcher 4

CD Projekt Red has unveiled its 2024 financial report, sharing critical insights into the company’s upcoming projects. According to the report, 58% of its workforce is now dedicated to the next Witcher title. The Witcher 4, codenamed Project Polaris, entered full-scale production last year, and its first cinematic trailer debuted at The Game Awards 2024. The trailer garnered significant attention for spotlighting Ciri as the new protagonist.

Meanwhile, 12% of the team is working on a new Cyberpunk game, currently in the concept phase under the codename Orion. CD Projekt Red also announced a new Cyberpunk animated series for Netflix, expanding the franchise’s multimedia presence.

Cyberpunk 2077 and Phantom Liberty Break Records

Cyberpunk 2077 has surpassed 30 million copies sold, while its expansion, Phantom Liberty, hit 8 million sales. The game maintained its popularity throughout 2024, winning the BAFTA Best Evolving Game award. Additionally, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition was announced for Apple Silicon-powered Mac devices.

Despite its financial success, CD Projekt Red continues to ramp up game development investments. Even after allocating record-breaking funding and distributing 100 million PLN in dividends in 2024, the company’s cash reserves grew by over 160 million PLN.

What’s Next for CD Projekt Red?

The studio’s upcoming projects are in the following stages:

The Witcher 4 – Full-scale production phase
Cyberpunk: Orion – Concept phase
The Witcher Remake – Concept phase
Sirius (Witcher spin-off) – Pre-production phase
Hadar (new IP) – Ideation phase

CD Projekt Red appears committed to expanding both The Witcher and Cyberpunk universes. The Witcher 4, in particular, is expected to be the studio’s most ambitious project to date.

Naval Battles Are Coming to Bannerlord with the War Sails Expansion!

Gergin Görünüşlü Adam — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 07:42:51 GMT

Mount and Blade Bannerlord War Sails expansion TaleWorlds

Naval Battles Are Coming to Bannerlord with the War Sails Expansion!

Gergin Görünüşlü Adam

• March 21, 2025

Mount & Blade Bannerlord’s “War Sails” Expansion Sets Sail!

TaleWorlds has unveiled thrilling news for Mount & Blade Bannerlord fans. After years of anticipation, the “War Sails” expansion will bring naval warfare to the game, launching on June 17, 2025, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.

What’s New?

Naval Combat System: Command mighty ships, engage in epic sea battles, and dominate the waves with realistic wind and wave physics. Customize vessels with siege engines, cargo holds, sails, and battering rams.

Viking-Inspired Nord Race: Fearless seafarers and melee experts, the Nords arrive as a playable faction. Explore their Northern Kingdom, featuring jagged peaks, vast taigas, and icy fjords.

18 Unique Ship Types: From agile longships to towering warships, each vessel offers distinct tactical advantages. Master dynamic weather systems, including storms and trade winds.

Expanded World: Calradia’s map is reimagined with northern islands, coastal waters, and open seas. New regions promise fresh challenges and strategic opportunities.

New Weapons & Gear: Arm yourself with spears, axes, swords, shields, and Nordic-themed armor. Customize characters with braided hairstyles, beards, and tattoos.

Base Game Improvements

TaleWorlds revealed that scrapped story-driven DLC mechanics will enhance the core game. Key updates include:

Stealth System: Infiltrate dungeons, rescue prisoners, and eliminate foes undetected.
Random Events: Encounter dynamic world events that shape your character’s journey.
City Projects: Build and manage settlements with rebalanced mechanics and new structures.
Negotiation Feature: Resolve conflicts through diplomacy instead of bloodshed.
Character Import/Export: Modify character stats via console commands.
New Weapons: Unleash chaos with slings and other ranged tools.
AI Overhauls: Smarter enemy tactics, improved pathfinding, and sharper aim against moving targets.

TaleWorlds promises more details in the coming weeks. Prepare to conquer land and sea when War Sails launches this June!

Counter-Strike 2 Breaks All-Time Peak Player Record!

Skyline — Sat, 15 Mar 2025 17:15:05 GMT

Counter-Strike 2 CS2 peak player count

Counter-Strike 2 Breaks All-Time Peak Player Record!

Skyline

• March 15, 2025

Counter-Strike 2 Breaks All-Time Peak Player Record!

Counter-Strike 2 has set a new milestone by breaking its own all-time concurrent player record, reaching an astonishing 1,824,989 players. With this surge, CS2 has officially surpassed CS:GO’s previous peak record.

🔥 Previous Record Held by CS:GO

The prior record was achieved by CS:GO in March 2023, following the announcement of CS2, which sparked a surge in player numbers. On May 1, 2023, CS:GO peaked at 1,818,773 players as fans eagerly sought beta access for CS2, driving massive engagement.

📈 CS2 Grows Without Major Updates

Remarkably, CS2’s latest record was achieved without any recent updates. The game’s popularity continues to grow organically, with player counts hitting new highs even in the absence of new content releases.

The Counter-Strike franchise remains a dominant force in the FPS genre, maintaining its legendary status after decades of success. Whether CS2 will break its own record again in the future is a question only time can answer!

Siege X Announced! How to Get Beta Access?

Skyline — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 17:53:48 GMT

R6 Siege X closed beta R6 Siege X beta dates Rainbow Six Siege X

Siege X Announced! How to Get Beta Access?

Skyline

• March 13, 2025

R6 Siege X Closed Beta Begins!

Ubisoft’s tactical shooter Rainbow Six Siege is receiving a massive update, including a complete title rebranding. The new iteration, R6 Siege X, launches its beta today. Players will experience revamped mechanics, enhanced environmental interactions, and a brand-new game mode.

📅 Closed Beta Dates

Start: March 13, 2025 - 19:00 (UTC)
End: March 19, 2025 - 19:00 (UTC)

🔫 New Mechanics & Improvements

Weapon inspection animations added.
Enhanced rope movement freedom: Now you can sprint while rappelling and transition faster around corners.
Upgraded environmental interactions create a more dynamic battlefield.

🎮 New Game Mode: Dual Front

The closed beta introduces 6v6 PvP mode Dual Front, where attack and defense operators can coexist on the same team. Players gain the ability to switch operators during respawn, enabling flexible mid-match strategy shifts.

🟣 How to Get Beta Access

Beta access is tied to Twitch Drops. Watch any Siege X Twitch livestream for 30 minutes to claim your access.

💻 Minimum System Requirements (PC)

Resolution: 1080p
Graphics & FPS: Low Settings | 60 FPS
CPU: Intel i3-8100 / AMD Ryzen 3 3100
GPU: NVIDIA GTX 1650 / AMD RX 5500 XT / Intel A380
RAM: 8 GB
Storage: 35 GB SSD
OS: Windows 10 / Windows 11

What are your thoughts on Siege X?

Another Game Bites the Dust: Spectre Divide Shuts Down!

Skyline — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 03:16:33 GMT

spectre divide mountaintop shutdown spectre divide server closure

Another Game Bites the Dust: Spectre Divide Shuts Down!

Skyline

• March 13, 2025

Mountaintop Shuts Down: Spectre Divide Servers to Close Within 30 Days

Indie game studio Mountaintop has announced the end of the road for Spectre Divide, its tactical shooter released last year. In a statement, CEO Nate Mitchell confirmed that the game’s first season failed to meet expectations, leading to the studio’s closure.

400,000 Players Couldn’t Generate Expected Revenue

Mountaintop had hoped for a strong start with Spectre Divide Season 1: Flashpoint. The game attracted 400,000 players in its first week and surpassed 10,000 concurrent players across all platforms. However, a steep drop in active players and insufficient revenue ultimately made the game unsustainable.

Mitchell revealed that the studio explored all options, including securing investors, partnering with a publisher, or pursuing acquisition deals, but none succeeded. He also cited broader challenges in the gaming industry as a contributing factor.

Spectre Divide to Go Offline in 30 Days

With Mountaintop now financially unable to continue, the CEO announced that the studio will formally close this week. Spectre Divide will be fully shut down within the next 30 days. To minimize player impact, refunds will be issued for purchases made since the season’s launch, and new purchases will be disabled shortly.

“This Was Always a Risky Project”

Mitchell emphasized that Spectre Divide was developed by a small indie team aiming to break genre conventions. Despite technical issues at its September 2024 launch, the studio delivered major improvements with Season 1, including a console version and player-driven updates. However, these changes couldn’t secure commercial success.

In closing, Mitchell thanked the Spectre community and investors, calling the game a passion project and stating the team “has no regrets about trying.”

What Was Spectre Divide?

Spectre Divide stood out as a 3v3 tactical shooter with an innovative dual-body control mechanic, allowing players to command two characters simultaneously. It blended strategic depth with a distinct art style, aiming to redefine the genre.

Sadly, the indie studio’s bold experiment couldn’t withstand the market’s pressures. While praised for its creativity, Spectre Divide joins the growing list of passion projects halted by the harsh realities of the gaming industry.

New Battlefield Gameplay Footage Leaked!

Skyline — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 17:28:15 GMT

Battlefield gameplay leak Battlefield Labs program EA leak news

New Battlefield Gameplay Footage Leaked!

Skyline

• March 7, 2025

New Battlefield Gameplay Footage Leaked

EA’s recently announced Battlefield Labs program grants players early access to test the next Battlefield title. It appears testing is already underway.

A playtester accidentally streamed live gameplay on Twitch, leaking the first substantial look at the unreleased game. EA had only shared 1-2 second teasers previously. Though the stream was quickly taken down, footage spread rapidly across social media.

Loading Tweet...

While I’m not deeply familiar with the Battlefield series, the HUD immediately reminded me of Battlefield 3 and 4. For a moment, I wondered if these were clips from older games. Key confirmed details so far:

Set in modern times.
Supports 64 players (not 128).
No operator system.

Considering the game is still in development, bugs in the leaked footage aren’t surprising. However, this leak offers crucial insights into the game’s direction. More leaks are likely in the coming weeks.

Prime Gaming's March Games Revealed: Mafia 2...

MikeIV — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 07:43:07 GMT

Prime Gaming March 2025 free games Saints Row The Third Remastered Mafia II Definitive Edition

Prime Gaming's March Games Revealed: Mafia 2...

MikeIV

• March 7, 2025

Prime Gaming March Free Games Announced

Prime Gaming has published the list of free games it will offer to subscribers throughout March 2025. These games, ranging from Mafia to Deus Ex, are offered in a beautiful, wide spectrum and remain permanently in your library once claimed. Here are the free games for March:

Game List

Name	Platform	Date
[Saints Row®: The Third™ Remastered]	[GOG Code]	March 6
[Mafia II: Definitive Edition]	[GOG Code]	March 6
[Crime Boss: Rockay City]	[Epic Games Store]	March 6
[Naheulbeuk’s Dungeon Master]	[Amazon Games App]	March 6
[Wall World]	[Amazon Games App]	March 13
[Syberia: The World Before]	[GOG Code]	March 13
[Endling — Extinction is Forever]	[Amazon Games App]	March 13
[Dark Deity: Complete Edition]	[GOG Code]	March 13
[Beholder 3]	[Amazon Games App]	March 13
[Wolfenstein: The Old Blood]	[Microsoft Store Code]	March 20
[Mutazione]	[GOG Code]	March 20
[Figment 2: Creed Valley]	[Amazon Games App]	March 20
[Legacy of Kain: Defiance]	[GOG Code]	March 20
[Mortal Shell]	[Epic Games Store]	March 20
[The Forgotten City]	[Amazon Games App]	March 27
[Deus Ex: Invisible War]	[GOG Code]	March 27
[Session: Skate Sim]	[Epic Games Store]	March 27
[Let’s Build A Zoo]	[Epic Games Store]	March 27
[Gamedec — Definitive Edition]	[GOG Code]	March 27
[The Wisbey Mystery]	[Legacy Games Code]	March 27

That’s the game lineup. Did any game catch your eye? Which one are you planning to play?

Indiana Jones and The Great Circle Review

EdgeTypE, Translator: MikeIV — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Indiana Jones and The Great Circle Indiana Jones and The Great Circle Review Indiana Jones and The Great Circle review

Indiana Jones and The Great Circle Review

EdgeTypE, Translator: MikeIV

• March 6, 2025

I wasn’t expecting it to be this good. I’m talking about Indiana Jones and The Great Circle.I can clearly say it’s the best game I’ve played this year. I wasn’t even planning to play it if it hadn’t come to Game Pass. Since it arrived on Game Pass on day one, I started playing it, and in one word, it was perfect.

Is It Really a Good Game?

Indiana Jones is the cinematic action-adventure game that Xbox has been missing for years.Don’t be fooled by me calling it an action game; the game actually steers you more toward stealth.You play as Doctor Indiana Jones, an archaeologist who studies historical artifacts and ancient ruins around the world.One day, a strange historical artifact is stolen from the university where Dr. Jones works, and he sets out to find it.

The game takes place across many locations—some completely linear, others small open worlds. These cities aren’t just copies of each other. Each has its own unique atmosphere and culture. While acting as a fake priest uncovering the Church’s secrets in Vatican City, we’re searching for treasure inside the pyramids of Egypt.

All these cities distinguish themselves through both visuals and gameplay. For example, while playing in the Vatican, a friend gives you priest robes and tells officials that you’re a priest from America. You can freely move around the city pretending to be a priest. Of course, since it’s set during World War II, fascists are everywhere. While gameplay here focuses more on stealth, when you reach Egypt, you encounter more puzzles and exploration. By the time you reach Thailand, action comes more to the forefront. The game transforms into an experience where you travel by boat through a city covered in rivers, or swim if you prefer.

The game also takes you to many different linear locations beyond these three semi-open world cities. You visit Shanghai being bombed by the Japanese, and climb to the top of a mountain in the Himalayas.

The game is essentially a journey story. During World War II, Nazi Germany begins studying ancient legends to make themselves an unstoppable force. Our character, Indiana Jones, tries to solve these legends before the Nazis to save the world.

There’s something called the Great Circle that gives the game its name. When you connect the structures of the first ancient civilizations in history with a line, they form a perfect circle around the world. The Nazis believe they’ll gain tremendous power if they solve this mystery. Throughout the game, we visit the structures of civilizations that form this Great Circle.

The Films Are Perfectly Adapted

Indiana Jones and The Great Circle is based on the films. It takes place between the 1st and 3rd films of the cult Indiana Jones trilogy from the 1980s. I previously had no connection to Indiana Jones. Two days before the game came out, I sat down and watched the films. I recommend you do too—you don’t need to watch them to play the game, but I wouldn’t have enjoyed it as much without watching them. They’ve perfectly adapted the film to a game. The films aren’t heavily realistic; they have a more cartoonish style, and the game preserves this well. They’ve maintained that delicate balance of seriousness and humor from the films.

In the films, Indiana Jones could use anything as a weapon. It’s the same in the game. A broom, guitar, rake, shovel—it doesn’t matter. You can use whatever God provides as a weapon. The game’s action is primarily melee combat. You have a pistol, but I barely used it throughout the game. You can also use weapons from enemies you kill, but they’re very poor. They designed the game around melee combat and didn’t want guns to be used, but they didn’t need to make them this bad. After all, you’re the team that made Wolfenstein.

There’s no advantage to using guns in the game. They don’t one-shot enemies or help you clear areas. The moment you fire, an alarm sounds and everyone piles on you. They included guns just to maintain atmospheric consistency. Most armed enemies even drop their weapons to engage in melee combat when attacking you.The game offers many options for progression. You can sneak past Nazis if you want. You can find alternative routes through platforming and climbing. Or you can fight your way through by beating up Nazis. Of course, we’re not controlling a military soldier. Fighting large groups of enemies is definitely not easy. So even if you don’t plan to proceed stealthily, you need to take down enemies one by one or in small groups.

Personally, I usually progressed by sneaking around and switching to action when I was about to be caught.

AI Problems

The game’s artificial intelligence is poor. This isn’t very noticeable during action sequences, but during stealth, it’s terrible.There are two possibilities. Either Adolf Hitler recruited Nazis exclusively from the farsighted, or the AI’s vision is problematic.

It was so bad that when an AI didn’t attack me in one instance, I thought this must be a friendly NPC. A year passed in-game before it finally started attacking me.

Similarly, I encountered several game-breaking bugs. In one scene, we’re supposed to board a boat with a story character. I need to push the boat. But the interaction button doesn’t work. If you try to press the button to push the boat before a character tells you to push it, the game freezes. You need to restart from the last checkpoint. I experienced similar bugs several times. Fortunately, the game saves frequently, so I didn’t have to go back far.

Graphics

The game faced criticism for its high system requirements before release. It was justified criticism. The game demands incredibly high specifications. Actually, the reason it needs such high specs isn’t so much about the power of the graphics cards, but rather the VRAM limitation. The game requires a lot of VRAM. Otherwise, the cards’ power is quite sufficient. I got 120 FPS on my 4060 laptop with a mix of high-medium settings. The card’s power would probably be enough for Ultra settings too, but I can’t use them because of insufficient VRAM.The game’s graphics are incredible, especially during cutscenes. You might not notice as much during gameplay, but during cutscenes, you sit and watch like it’s a film. Especially during long cutscenes, you forget you’re playing a game and watch it like a movie. For the game, Harrison Ford’s face, who played Indiana Jones in the films, was recreated perfectly and performed by Troy Baker, who appears in almost every game. He performed so well that Harrison Ford said, “If I knew it would be this good, I would have played it myself.” That’s how good he was. Normally, I get very annoyed when voice actors change in films or games. For example, I was irritated by Rick and Morty’s new voices in the new season, even though they were nearly identical to the originals. Even the slightest change in tone bothers me. But Troy Baker voiced it so well that I’m sure many people thought Harrison Ford did the voice.

You could take this game and release it as an animated film, and no one would object. The scenes are so good that you can see a character literally foaming with rage. They’ve managed to show this visually. Seriously, they’ve done it. The character’s saliva sticks between his lips and stretches out. It’s insane work.

Cinematic moments are very well prepared. Especially the cinematic action scenes are beautifully done. Jumping from one fighter plane to another mid-air, ramming a Nazi convoy on land with a boat. I wish there were many more scenes like this.

Things Nobody Cares About

I want to mention something. Probably no one else in the world has noticed this, but it really bothered me. While moving forward in a boat, the character on the boat tries to balance by leaning in the opposite direction the boat is tilting. But this animation really bothered me. It leans perfectly. It looks very artificial, but as I said, I’m probably the only person in the world who noticed this.

I was going to convert the scene to a gif and put it here, but I’m getting a silly technical error. You can check the YouTube link here

Another thing probably only I noticed. When boarding and disembarking from the ship, the character Gina teleports. They didn’t create an animation for boarding the boat. Instead, when Dr. Jones turns around to start the engine, Gina teleports inside the boat. Of course, the player doesn’t see this, but it’s obvious she teleported there.Speaking of boats, something else came to mind. While moving forward in the boat, a tree branch fell onto my boat and tumbled around inside the boat according to the boat’s movements. It was perfect. I never expected to see something like that. These kinds of details make you love the game.

Puzzles and Side Content

The game has many puzzles. Neither too hard nor too easy. Just the right difficulty. If you want harder puzzles, you can find them as side content. There’s plenty of side content that doesn’t appear as missions. You find a note on the ground. It mentions a safe, but the password is forgotten. You go somewhere else, and someone took notes because they often forgot the password. You go back and open the safe, finding an old book. These aren’t even quests. By doing these extra activities, you can develop your character.

There’s no skill tree in the game. Machine Games, the developer, basically said, “What’s with unlocking skills with one click? Read some books and get cultured.” You read books to develop your character. You can find these books as you progress through the game or while doing side content. Or you can say “Money talks, right?” and buy them.Character development doesn’t have a very significant impact on the game. You can easily finish the game without developing your character at all.

Conclusion

With its mockery of Nazis and its action, the game is truly enjoyable, and I strongly recommend playing it if you have Game Pass.

Gaming-DB

Indiana Jones and The Great Circle

I wasn't expecting it to be this good. It might be the best game released under the Xbox umbrella.

pros

cons

Story and narrative

Cinematic gameplay

Atmosphere

Diversity

Artificial intelligence

Weapons feel clumsy

PlayStation Beta Program Announced!

MIKEIV — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 09:38:54 GMT

PlayStation Beta Program PS5 beta testing PC game testing

PlayStation Beta Program Announced!

MIKEIV

• March 5, 2025

PlayStation Beta Program Launched: Players Invited to New Experiences

Sony Interactive Entertainment has taken a bold step to enhance the PlayStation experience with its Beta Program at PlayStation. This initiative invites players to test new features for the PS5 console, PC games, the PlayStation App, and PlayStation.com. Registration for the free program is now open globally.

Who Can Join?

To participate, players must meet the following criteria:

A valid PlayStation Network account in good standing (restricted or penalized accounts cannot join),
Reside in a region where the program is active,
Meet the legal age requirement in their region.

Interested players can register at playstation.com/beta-program-at-playstation/. Note that the page may not yet be available in some regions; if so, check back later.

What’s Being Tested?

The Beta Program offers diverse testing opportunities:

PS5 Games & Features: New games, console features, system software updates, design innovations, and usability tests will evolve based on player feedback.
PC Games: PlayStation titles in development for PC will be tested across various stages.
PlayStation App & PlayStation.com: Updates to the mobile app and website features will also be open for feedback.

Sid Shuman, Senior Director of Content Communications at Sony Interactive Entertainment, stated, “For years, players in our beta tests have helped us deliver the best possible gaming experiences. This new program simplifies and centralizes the participation process.” He also clarified that registration does not guarantee selection for all tests.

How to Join?

A single registration at playstation.com/beta-program-at-playstation/ is all you need. Complete the short form and agree to the terms to apply. Once invited, you’ll decide which beta to participate in.

PlayStation aims to involve players more actively in shaping its future. If you’re eager to try new games and features before anyone else, sign up now!

Rainbow Six Siege's 10th Year Begins!

Skyline — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 07:48:40 GMT

Rainbow Six Siege 10th Year r6 r6 siege

Rainbow Six Siege's 10th Year Begins!

Skyline

• March 5, 2025

Rainbow Six Siege’s 10th Year Begins!

A new era is beginning for Ubisoft’s competitive FPS game Rainbow Six Siege. Year 10 Season 1: Operation Prep Phase will be available to players in March 2025!

New Operator: Rauora and the D.O.M. Panel Launcher

The new attacker operator Rauora comes with the D.O.M. Panel Launcher, which has the potential to change the dynamics of the game. Think of a combination of Aruni and Castle, but on the attacking side. With the D.O.M. Panel Launcher, you can deploy a Castle-like barrier on doors. You can reopen the door by shooting at the target indicator on it. This allows you to protect yourself and your teammates in situations where you might be flanked.

Season Highlights

The Reputation System is being fully implemented.
Enhanced Anti-Cheat Measures will make the competitive environment cleaner.
Celebration Pack: Everyone who logs into the game will receive a free pack containing exclusive skins.

Rainbow Six Siege X is Coming!

Ubisoft used to announce all the updates coming to the game at the beginning of each year. However, this year they are taking a different approach. Because Rainbow Six Siege is undergoing a major transformation! This update, called Siege X, will be a complete overhaul similar to Counter-Strike 2 and Hunt: Showdown 1896.

Battle Pass

This season’s Battle Pass has a unique design, but that’s not what makes it special. This time, it’s packed with celebration bundles containing over 1400 different items from Year 1 to Year 9 seasons. While it has shaken up the game’s community market, if you’re lucky, you might get your hands on some valuable items.

Rockstar Games Acquires Video Games Deluxe!

Skyline — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 13:54:16 GMT

Rockstar Games Video Games Deluxe acquisition Rockstar Australia

Rockstar Games Acquires Video Games Deluxe!

Skyline

• March 3, 2025

Rockstar Games Acquires Video Games Deluxe!

Rockstar Games announced its acquisition of Sydney-based studio Video Games Deluxe, known for projects like L.A. Noire: The VR Case Files. The studio will now operate under the name Rockstar Australia.

Who is Video Games Deluxe?

Founded in 2013 by former members of Team Bondi, the studio behind L.A. Noire, Video Games Deluxe had a long-standing partnership with Rockstar Games. Key projects they developed or contributed to include:

L.A. Noire: The VR Case Files (2017)
L.A. Noire Remaster (2017)
GTA Trilogy: The Definitive Edition (Mobile & Netflix Version)

Statements from Rockstar Games

Jennifer Kolbe of Rockstar Games shared:

After years of collaboration, we’re thrilled to welcome Video Games Deluxe into our team as Rockstar Australia.

Studio founder Brendan McNamara added:

Working closely with Rockstar Games over the past decade has been an honor. We’re excited to join the Rockstar family and continue our mission to create groundbreaking games.

What Does This Mean for Rockstar’s Future?

The implications of this acquisition remain speculative. Rockstar could leverage the studio for side projects like a potential GTA IV Remastered or assign them to support GTA VI’s development. The move strengthens Rockstar’s global footprint and signals deeper investments in both remasters and new titles.

Additional Notes

Video Games Deluxe’s expertise in VR and remasters aligns with Rockstar’s recent focus on re-releases (GTA Trilogy, Red Dead Redemption port).
The rebranding to Rockstar Australia hints at long-term integration into the company’s core operations.
Fans speculate this could accelerate updates for L.A. Noire VR or even spark a sequel.

Stay tuned for more updates as Rockstar Australia gears up for its next chapter!

Games Coming in March! Assassin's Creed Shadows and More!

Guest — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 12:15:33 GMT

March 2025 games Two Point Museum Split Fiction

Games Coming in March! Assassin's Creed Shadows and More!

Guest

• March 1, 2025

Games Coming in March 2025

March is set to be an action-packed month for gamers. Alongside new releases, sequels to beloved franchises and remastered classics will hit the shelves. Here are the key games launching in March 2025:

Two Point Museum – March 4 (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S)

This simulation game offers a fun take on museum management, challenging you to build and run your own museum while keeping visitors entertained.

Split Fiction – March 6 (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S)

Hazelight Studios’ new platformer combines action and puzzle elements, inviting players into a gripping narrative with unique gameplay mechanics.

Suikoden I&II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars – March 6 (PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch)

The classic RPGs Suikoden I and II return with remastered visuals, breathing new life into their legendary stories.

Rise of the Ronin – March 11 (PC)

Originally a PlayStation exclusive, Rise of the Ronin makes its PC debut. Team Ninja’s action-adventure epic immerses players in Japan’s Meiji period, blending samurai combat with a rich historical narrative.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows – March 20 (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S)

Set in feudal Japan, this new Assassin’s Creed entry introduces dual protagonists and a dynamic season system. We hope to have our review ready by its release!

Wreckfest 2 – March 20 (PC)

The sequel to the chaotic racing/demolition hybrid roars back with enhanced graphics and an upgraded physics engine for maximum carnage.

Killing Floor 3 – March 25 (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S)

Face off against hordes of mutants in this intense survival shooter. Team up or go solo—the choice is yours.

Atomfall – March 27 (PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One)

Rebellion’s survival shooter drops players into a post-apocalyptic wasteland where scavenging resources and battling enemies are key to staying alive.

The First Berserker: Khazan – March 27 (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S)

Neople’s action-RPG thrusts players into the epic adventures of Khazan, a warrior battling through a mythic world.

InZOI – March 28 (PC) (Early Access)

Krafton’s life simulation game lets you create and manage a hyper-realistic world. Think of it as The Sims with photorealistic graphics.

Which game is your favorite this month?

Another Game Gets Axed: Bad News for Wonder Woman Fans as Warner Bros Cancels Highly Anticipated Title!

Skyline, Reuben — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 19:30:14 GMT

wonder woman Warner Bros Games Wonder Woman game canceled

Another Game Gets Axed: Bad News for Wonder Woman Fans as Warner Bros Cancels Highly Anticipated Title!

Skyline, Reuben

• February 25, 2025

Warner Bros. Cancels Wonder Woman Game and Closes Three Studios

Warner Bros. Games has initiated a major restructuring, announcing the closure of Monolith Productions, Player First Games, and WB San Diego. Alongside these shutdowns, the highly anticipated Wonder Woman game has reportedly been canceled. While no official statement has been released, renowned industry insider Jason Schreier broke the news via his BlueSky account.

Closed Studios and Canceled Projects

Monolith Productions: The studio behind acclaimed titles like Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor and Middle-earth: Shadow of War was actively developing the Wonder Woman game before its cancellation.
Player First Games: Acquired by Warner Bros. in July 2024, this studio developed the platform fighter MultiVersus, which recently announced its impending shutdown. The studio itself is now closing.
WB San Diego: Established in 2019, this studio focused on mobile and free-to-play games and is among the casualties of Warner Bros.’ restructuring.

The Demise of the Wonder Woman Game

Announced in 2021, the Wonder Woman game by Monolith Productions promised a dynamic open-world action-adventure experience featuring the iconic Nemesis System. The cancellation marks another blow to fans eagerly awaiting a solo title for the DC superheroine.

Warner Bros. Games’ Restructuring Efforts

Warner Bros. Games reported a $100 million loss in 2024, attributed to underperforming titles like MultiVersus and Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions. This financial setback prompted the company to streamline operations, shutting down studios and axing projects.

Rumors previously swirled about Microsoft’s interest in acquiring Warner Bros.’ gaming division. With these closures, speculation about potential mergers or acquisitions could resurface.

No GTA 6, But GTA V Gets a Next-Gen Update!

Skyline — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 16:09:37 GMT

GTA V PC next-gen update free GTA V update GTA V ray tracing support

No GTA 6, But GTA V Gets a Next-Gen Update!

Skyline

• February 20, 2025

GTA V’s PC Version Gets a Free Next-Gen Update

Rockstar Games has announced that on March 4, 2025, the PC version of Grand Theft Auto V will receive a free next-gen update. This update will bring features previously exclusive to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S to PC players.

What’s New in the Update?

Enhanced Graphics Options: Visual improvements like ray tracing, HDR support, and higher-resolution textures.
Hao’s Special Works (HSW): This exclusive workshop at Los Santos Car Meet will offer high-performance upgrades for select vehicles.
GTA+ Membership: PC players will gain access to the GTA+ membership, which includes exclusive benefits such as a monthly GTA$500,000 bonus.
Wildlife Photography: Capture images of animals across Southern San Andreas to earn daily rewards.
Career Progression & Updated Start Page: A new career tracking system for managing your criminal empire, along with an updated start page for quicker game access.

Technical Improvements

Ray Tracing Support: Realistic reflections and shadows with advanced ray tracing features.
AMD FSR & NVIDIA DLSS Support: Cutting-edge graphics technologies for better frame rates and resolutions.
Faster Loading Times: SSD and DirectStorage support significantly reduce loading times.
DualSense Controller Support: Enjoy adaptive trigger features for a more immersive experience.

For Existing Players

Players who already own GTA V on PC can download this update for free and transfer their story mode and online progression to the new version. However, legacy support for the older version will remain, and both versions will be playable. However, players on different versions will not be able to join the same sessions.

GTA V Next-Gen System Requirements

The game requires a minimum of a GTX 1630 GPU and an Intel i7-4770 CPU, while the recommended setup includes an AMD Ryzen 5 3600 CPU and an RTX 3060 8GB GPU.

This update not only enhances the GTA V experience for PC players but also highlights Rockstar Games’ continued commitment to its player base.

Upcoming Games on Game Pass This Month: Warhammer Rogue Trader, Avowed, and More

EdgeTypE — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 15:53:18 GMT

xbox game pass avowed ea sports f1 24

Upcoming Games on Game Pass This Month: Warhammer Rogue Trader, Avowed, and More

EdgeTypE

• February 19, 2025

New Games Coming to Game Pass: Watch Dogs: Legion, EA Sports F1 24, and Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader

The Game Pass library is expanding with several new titles in the coming days. Here are the upcoming additions and their release dates:

Coming Soon to Game Pass

Avowed (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) | February 18
From Obsidian Entertainment, the award-winning team behind Pillars of Eternity, comes Avowed, an action-RPG set in the same universe. Available on Game Pass from day one, the game takes place on the mysterious and perilous island of Living Lands.
Ryse: Son of Rome (Cloud) | February 19
This action-adventure title, set during the chaotic era of the Roman Empire, returns via Xbox Cloud Gaming. Step into the shoes of Marius Titus to avenge your family in a story-driven experience. Developed by Crytek, known for the Crysis series, this game was originally a launch title for the Xbox One.
EA Sports F1 24 (Cloud, Console, PC) | February 20
Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass (via EA Play)
Big news for racing fans! EA Sports F1 24 joins Game Pass through EA Play. Xbox Cloud Gaming, PC Game Pass, and Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can hit the tracks and master every corner. Subscribers also receive an in-game 5,000 XP bonus.
Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) | February 20
Developed by Owlcat Games, Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader is an isometric RPG that plunges players into the dark future of the 41st millennium. Command your own starship, recruit a crew, and shape your destiny through tactical turn-based battles.
Watch Dogs: Legion (Cloud, Console, PC) | February 25
Prepare to take over the streets of London! Watch Dogs: Legion stands out with its innovative gameplay mechanic where every NPC is playable. Team up with friends for four-player co-op missions or dive into online PvP battles.

With these additions, the Game Pass library grows even larger. Which games are you planning to try? Let us know in the comments!

Elon Musk Releases New AI Grok 3! We Tested It Against Competitors

EdgeTypE — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 09:21:07 GMT

grok best ai model elon musk

Elon Musk Releases New AI Grok 3! We Tested It Against Competitors

EdgeTypE

• February 18, 2025

The social media platform formerly known as Twitter (now X) has launched its latest AI model - Grok 3. Currently available to X Premium+ subscribers, the AI can also be tested for free through platforms like LMArena. We challenged three leading AI models to create a Chrome Dino-style endless runner game for our website. Here’s how they performed:

GPT-4o

Surprisingly, GPT delivered the weakest result. The implementation was rougher than expected, though functional with spacebar controls. Test it yourself here.

Claude 3.5 Sonnet

Claude emerged as our favorite. While not the most visually polished, it created the most playable version despite a non-functional restart button (use spacebar to play). Try Claude’s version here.

Grok 3

Grok 3’s code was technically superior but brutally difficult. While visually impressive with smooth animations, unbalanced enemy spawn rates and touch control issues hold it back. Challenge yourself with Grok’s version here.

Verdict

While Grok 3 produced the most sophisticated code, this single test doesn’t tell the whole story. Current benchmarks on platforms like LMArena show Grok leading in overall scores.

In related news, Musk announced that Grok 2 will be open-sourced - a significant development for AI enthusiasts.

Siege X Announced! A New Era in Rainbow Six Siege..

Skyline — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 11:56:40 GMT

siege x what is siege x Rainbow Six Siege X

Siege X Announced! A New Era in Rainbow Six Siege..

Skyline

• February 17, 2025

Rainbow Six Siege X Announced: A New Era Begins in the Game

Ubisoft has announced Siege X, a major update for the popular tactical shooter Rainbow Six Siege. This update is designed to celebrate the game’s 10th anniversary and aims to deliver a brand-new experience to players.

What is Siege X?

Siege X is the biggest update Rainbow Six Siege has ever received. Similar to how CS:GO evolved into CS2, this update brings a game engine overhaul. With this update:

Enhanced Graphics and Sound: The game’s visual and auditory elements will be significantly improved.
Deeper Tactical Gameplay: New game mechanics and strategic options will be added.
New Game Modes: In addition to the existing bomb defusal modes, different game modes will also be introduced.

From the rumors and short clips shared, it seems that environmental interaction in the game will be greatly enhanced. We also saw a scene where Sledge and Kapkan were on the same team. Seeing these two characters—one an attacker and the other a defender—side by side was surprising. Additionally, the gameplay appears to be much faster and more dynamic.

Siege X Showcase Event

The details of this major update will be revealed at the Siege X Showcase event on March 13, 2025. The event will start at 6 pm CET and will be streamed live on Rainbow Six Siege’s official Twitch channel. As always, we will share everything shown during the event with you.

New Operator: Rauora

Before Siege X arrives, a new operator named Rauora will join the attacking team starting March 4th with Operation Prep Phase. Rauora’s special ability, the D.O.M. Panel Launcher, allows her to deploy bulletproof panels on doors, enabling her team to reshape the battlefield and control the flow of combat. As usual, Rauora will be accessible via the Battle Pass at the start of the season and will be unlockable with Renown or R6 Credits two weeks later.

Epic Games Store Continues Its Growth Streak!

Reuben — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 14:51:48 GMT

Epic Games Store 2024 report Epic Games user count Epic Games free games 2024

Epic Games Store Continues Its Growth Streak!

Reuben

• February 15, 2025

Epic Games Store Unveils 2024 Year-End Report: Reaches 295 Million Users

Epic Games Store has published its comprehensive 2024 year-end report. According to the data, the platform hit 295 million PC users, marking a 25 million increase from the previous year. Additionally, 89 free games were distributed, and players logged a total of 7 billion gaming hours.

User Base and Engagement Growth

Epic Games Store sustained significant growth in 2024. The platform’s total PC user count reached 295 million, while cross-platform Epic accounts soared to 898 million—adding 94 million new accounts in 2024 alone. Daily Active Users (DAU) averaged 31.5 million, and Monthly Active Users (MAU) climbed to 67.2 million, reflecting a 6% year-over-year growth for both metrics.

Game Catalog and Revenue

In 2024, 1,100 new games launched on Epic Games Store, expanding its catalog to a record-breaking 4,000+ titles. Third-party app spending by users totaled $255 million, down 18% from 2023. However, total spending—including Epic’s first-party titles—rose 15% to $1.09 billion.

Playtime for third-party games also increased, jumping from 2.41 billion hours in 2023 to 2.68 billion hours in 2024—an 11% surge. Programs like “Epic First Run” and “Now on Epic”, which let developers retain 100% of net revenue, gained strong traction. The “Now on Epic” initiative has been extended to January 31, 2026 and now includes mobile games.

Growth on Mobile Platforms

Epic Games Store made notable strides in mobile during 2024. Its global Android app and iOS launch in the European Union expanded with third-party game integrations and a mobile free-game program. The mobile app also added auto-update functionality.

2025 Roadmap

Epic Games Store plans to enhance user experience in 2025 with upgrades like a revamped mobile library, a new download manager, pre-loading capabilities, and advanced search filters. Non-game apps will also debut on the store. Plus, gift support is finally arriving—so you can send games to friends. “Hopefully it arrives soon—I have many friends with birthdays in March!”

Top-Performing Games of 2024

The most-played and highest-revenue games on Epic Games Store in 2024 included Genshin Impact, Rocket League, Honkai Star Rail, Grand Theft Auto V, and Fortnite, dominating both engagement and earnings.

Epic Games Store achieved remarkable growth in both users and revenue during 2024. With mobile and PC innovations slated for 2025, the platform aims to keep its momentum strong.

All Games Shown at State of Play! Days Gone Remastered...

Skyline — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 23:22:28 GMT

State of Play PlayStation State of Play 2025 State of Play games

All Games Shown at State of Play! Days Gone Remastered...

Skyline

• February 12, 2025

PlayStation State of Play - All Games Revealed

PlayStation’s latest State of Play event lasted over 40 minutes and showcased numerous games. Here’s everything announced:

Monster Hunter Wilds — Launch Trailer

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds

Digimon Story Time Stranger

Dave the Diver — Ichiban’s Holiday

Borderlands 4

Releases September 23.

Split Fiction

Directive 8020

“Looks familiar, but I couldn’t place it.”

Five Nights at Freddy’s: Secret of the Mimic

The Midnight Walk

Darwin’s Paradox

Warriors: Abyss

Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny

Onimusha: Way of the Sword

Metal Gear Solid Delta Snake Eater

Hell is Us

Lies of P: Overture

Dreams of Another

Days Gone Remastered

“It started as a joke. Now it’s real.”

Stellar Blade PC

Blue Prince

Abiotic Factor

Tides of Annihilation

Metal Eden

MindsEye

Saros

SIE’s new game. Gives off Returnal vibes.

Which game are you most excited about?

Crysis 4 Shelved! Official Announcement Made

EdgeTypE — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 12:52:57 GMT

crysis 4 crysis 4 release date crysis 4 what happened

Crysis 4 Shelved! Official Announcement Made

EdgeTypE

• February 12, 2025

People often claim they don’t like saying “I told you so,” but that’s usually a lie. I’ll be completely honest with you - I love saying “I told you so.” And I’m proud to say it now. As we reported a month ago, Crysis 4’s development was put on hold. Today, Crytek confirmed our reporting with their official announcement.

Crytek announced in November 2024 that Crysis 4 has been shelved and 15% of their 400 employees have been laid off. Crytek has decided to redirect their remaining resources to Hunt: Showdown 1896.

Loading Tweet...

While this doesn’t mean Crysis 4 is completely canceled, you shouldn’t keep your hopes up. I can’t remember any game that was shelved and came back successfully. Join us on our Discord server, where we’re currently pouring our hearts out about Crytek.

Epic Games Releases $275 Worth of Unreal Engine Assets for Free!

DS — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 19:03:43 GMT

Unreal Engine free assets Unreal Engine assets

Epic Games Releases $275 Worth of Unreal Engine Assets for Free!

• February 11, 2025

Unreal Engine Users Rejoice: $275 Worth of Premium Assets Now Free!

Epic Games has temporarily unlocked $275 worth of Unreal Engine assets for all users. Available until February 25, 2025, these assets can be permanently added to your Fab library at no cost. This giveaway is part of Epic’s revamped monthly free asset program, which now releases 3 free asset packs every two weeks (previously 5 per month).

Free Asset Highlights

Valley of Guldur by GreenBugGames

Crafted for Unreal Engine 5, Valley of Guldur delivers a stunning fantasy environment featuring:

Manually optimized LODs and collision meshes
4K textures for most models
Parallax effects, foliage, and wind-driven particle systems
Modular assets for flexible scene building

Fab Link

Ninja Input by Ninja Bear Studio

Supercharge player controls with this Enhanced Input-compatible plugin:

Pre-built handlers for movement, aiming, jumping, crouching
Seamless Gameplay Ability System (GAS) integration
Extendable via Blueprints or C++

Fab Link

Post-Apocalyptic Urban City by BAMESHI

Build dystopian worlds with this AAA-quality pack:

Interior/exterior modular buildings
Optimized day/night lighting setups
Demo map with reusable art templates
100+ debris, vehicle, and prop models

Fab Link

Do I Need to Download Immediately?

No. Claim before February 25 to permanently retain these assets. You can download them anytime later.

⚠️ Critical Note: When adding to your library, select the appropriate license:

Indie (projects under $1M revenue)
Professional (commercial/studio use)

License selection is final – choose wisely based on your project scope.

State of Play Announced! God of War Remastered Rumors

DS — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 15:37:15 GMT

State of Play PlayStation State of Play 2025 State of Play live stream

State of Play Announced! God of War Remastered Rumors

• February 11, 2025

New State of Play Event Announced by PlayStation

PlayStation has announced the details of the new State of Play event. The event will last over 40 minutes.

During the event, significant announcements are expected regarding new games and updates prepared for the PS5. According to rumors, the introduction of remastered versions of the classic God of War games is on the agenda.

State of Play will focus on the creative and unique game projects of studios worldwide. The event will be live-streamed on YouTube and Twitch.

Event Times:

PT (Pacific Time): February 12, 14:00
ET (Eastern Time): February 12, 17:00
CET (Central European Time): February 12, 23:00
TRT (Turkey Time): February 13, 01:00
JST (Japan Time): February 13, 07:00

Don’t set your expectations too high. I don’t think it’s worth losing sleep over (its midnight at least where I live). You get your sleep, we’ll stay up and watch the event for you, and summarize it.

Steam Bans In-Game Ads: New Policy Shakes Up the Gaming Industry

Skyline — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 10:55:22 GMT

Steam Steam ban Steam in-game ad ban

Steam Bans In-Game Ads: New Policy Shakes Up the Gaming Industry

Skyline

• February 10, 2025

Steam Bans In-Game Ads!

Valve has rolled out new rules prohibiting in-game advertisements on Steam. Developers can no longer force players to watch ads or use ad-based rewards to make their games playable.

New Advertising Rules on Steam

Mandatory in-game ads are strictly banned. Players cannot be required to watch ads to progress or access content.
Mechanics like earning rewards through ads are no longer permitted on Steam.
External ad campaigns remain allowed. Developers can use paid ads to drive traffic to their game pages and measure effectiveness via tools like UTM analysis.

Supported Features

Product Placement: Content featuring real-world brands (e.g., sponsored logos on race cars) is permitted.
Cross-Promotions: Bundles, discounts, or promotions with other Steam games are allowed.

Prohibited Features

Forced Ads: Models requiring players to watch ads to continue playing are banned.
Ad-Based Rewards: Offering in-game rewards for watching ads is prohibited.
Charging Other Developers: Fees for participation in discount pages or bundles are not allowed.

These updates aim to block ad-driven monetization models commonly seen in mobile games. Valve emphasizes that Steam games must rely on ad-free commercial models. I fully support Steam’s player-friendly approach—this is why it remains the unrivaled platform for PC gaming.

PlayStation Issues Apology: 5 Free Days Added to PS Plus Subscriptions!

Skyline — Sun, 09 Feb 2025 08:16:28 GMT

Is PSN down PlayStation Network outage PSN connection issues

PlayStation Issues Apology: 5 Free Days Added to PS Plus Subscriptions!

Skyline

• February 9, 2025

PlayStation Issues Apology: 5 Free Days Added to PS Plus Subscriptions!

The major PlayStation Network outage has ended. Sony has apologized to players by extending PlayStation Plus subscriptions by 5 days.

Last night’s widespread PlayStation Network (PSN) outage, which caused nearly 24 hours of connectivity issues, has now been resolved. Players can once again log into PSN, play games, and shop via the PlayStation Store.

Sony has promised to automatically extend all PlayStation Plus subscriptions by 5 days as compensation for the disruption. The extension will be applied to accounts within the next few days. PlayStation’s official statement reads:

“Network services have fully recovered from the operational issue. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank our community for their patience. All PlayStation Plus members will receive an additional 5 days of service credited to their accounts.”

Sony confirmed that players can use PSN without issues and directed those seeking real-time updates to visit the official PSN status page.

For details on last night’s outage, read: PlayStation Network Down for Over 12 Hours

While the 5-day subscription extension is a welcome gesture, it applies only to PlayStation Plus members. Many players have expressed frustration over this limitation, and their concerns are valid.

Helldivers Turns 1 Year Old! Gifts for Players..

EdgeTypE — Sat, 08 Feb 2025 15:01:30 GMT

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Helldivers Turns 1 Year Old! Gifts for Players..

EdgeTypE

• February 8, 2025

Helldivers 2 is now one year old! Released on February 8th last year, the PlayStation game Helldivers 2 made a huge impact and continues to do so.

As the first game to be released simultaneously on PC and PlayStation 5 by PlayStation, Helldivers 2 has been involved in many notable events over the past year. This includes PlayStation fans demanding the game be released on Xbox, and the game’s sudden downfall.

After a year full of events, we were expecting a major New Year update, but it seems we’ll have to wait a bit longer for that. For now, we’ll have to make do with the free B-22 Model Citizen armor set and the Eye of Freedom cape.The armor is a medium armor and its passive ability gives you a 50% chance to survive when you take lethal damage.

Additionally, a new Major Order has begun. You are required to complete 11 defenses against Illuminate attacks. If you’re looking for friends to play Helldivers 2 with, join our Discord server.

You can read our Helldivers 2 review here.

PlayStation Network Has Been Down for Over 12 Hours!

Skyline — Sat, 08 Feb 2025 12:38:44 GMT

PSN playstation store playstation network

PlayStation Network Has Been Down for Over 12 Hours!

Skyline

• February 8, 2025

Sony Investigating Major PSN Outage

PlayStation Network (PSN) has been inaccessible for over 12 hours. This outage, affecting all PlayStation platforms including PS4, PS5, PS3, PS Vita, and web services, is preventing players from accessing their games and using online services.

Affected Services:

PlayStation Network account login and management
Gaming and social services
PlayStation Store purchases and downloads

The outage began on February 8, 2025, at 00:00 and is still ongoing. Sony has acknowledged the issue and is working on a solution, but has not shared any definitive information on when services will be restored.

Players Unable to Access Digital Games!

One of the biggest issues with this outage is that players cannot play their games due to PlayStation’s inability to verify digital game licenses. Some digital games can be launched, but PlayStation issues a warning that the game will shut down after 15 minutes.

Awaiting a Statement from Sony

Sony has yet to make an official statement regarding the cause of the PSN crash. The only statement from Sony so far is that they are aware of the issue.

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While it remains unclear when PSN will be back to normal, players are waiting for updates from Sony. If there is any announcement, we will share it with you.

Football Manager 25 Cancelled!

Skyline — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 08:33:02 GMT

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Football Manager 25 Cancelled!

Skyline

• February 7, 2025

Football Manager 25 Cancelled!

🚨 Sports Interactive has announced the complete cancellation of Football Manager 25. This decision, following two previous postponements, came as a major disappointment for fans of the series.

“We Can’t Even Release a Game on Schedule Despite Planned Programming”

In their announcement, the development team stated that the game failed to reach the desired technical and visual standards, leading to the cancellation decision. The statement included, “We aimed to start a new era in the series with FM25, but we realized we couldn’t meet expectations at this point.”

Pre-orders Will Be Refunded

Players who pre-ordered Football Manager 25 will automatically receive refunds. While those who purchased through official retailers like Steam and Epic Games will be automatically included in the refund process, customers who bought from other stores need to contact their respective sellers.

No FM24 Update Either

Additionally, it was announced that there will be no 2024/25 season update for FM24. The development team stated that they are redirecting all their resources to the next game, Football Manager 26.

💬 How do you think this cancellation will affect the FM series?

GTA VI Release Date Reconfirmed – No Delays!

DS — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 21:29:20 GMT

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GTA VI Release Date Reconfirmed – No Delays!

• February 6, 2025

Grand Theft Auto VI Release Date Reconfirmed

Take-Two Interactive has officially announced that Grand Theft Auto VI will launch in fall 2025. The company’s latest financial reports confirmed the highly anticipated release window, alongside details about other upcoming projects.

Take-Two’s Upcoming Game Portfolio

Take-Two Interactive is preparing to launch several major titles in 2025. CEO Strauss Zelnick stated that this year will be one of the strongest in the company’s history, highlighting key projects:

Sid Meier’s Civilization VII: Releasing February 11, 2025, for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, and Nintendo Switch.
Mafia: The Old Country: Launching summer 2025 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
Grand Theft Auto VI: Arriving fall 2025 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. No PC release planned.
Borderlands 4: Slated for 2025 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

Additionally, mobile titles like CSR 3 (developed by Zynga) and Judas (from Ghost Story Games) are set to debut next year.

Financial Performance

Take-Two reported $1.37 billion in net revenue for Q3 of fiscal year 2025, driven by the success of the NBA 2K series and steady growth in mobile gaming. The company expects net revenue between $5.55 billion and $5.65 billion for fiscal year 2025.

Zelnick added, “We anticipate record-breaking net revenues in fiscal years 2026 and 2027,” emphasizing confidence in long-term investments.

Mobile Gaming Growth Continues

Zynga’s mobile gaming division, including titles like Match Factory, continues to thrive. Take-Two remains optimistic about expanding its presence in the mobile market.

2025 promises to be an exciting year for Take-Two and gamers alike, with Grand Theft Auto VI poised to redefine the open-world genre.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II Sells 1 Million Copies in 24 Hours!

DS — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 16:22:53 GMT

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Kingdom Come: Deliverance II When will Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 be released

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II Sells 1 Million Copies in 24 Hours!

• February 5, 2025

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II Sells 1 Million Copies in 24 Hours

Developed by Warhorse Studios, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II achieved a remarkable success by selling 1 million copies within the first 24 hours of its release on February 4th. This impressive performance demonstrates that the game has met the expectations of the series’ fanbase.

What is Kingdom Come: Deliverance II?

A Tale of Revenge in the Heart of the Middle Ages

Set in 15th-century Bohemia, the game follows the epic journey of Henry, the son of a blacksmith, in a land gripped by civil war. After his parents are brutally murdered, Henry’s life takes a dramatic turn as he seeks revenge, navigating through royal intrigues, betrayals, and uncharted territories. With over 5 hours of cinematic scenes, the story immerses players in the transformation of a young warrior battling against Sigismund the Red Fox.

A Realistic Open World and Freedom

Players can freely explore a vast map equipped with realistic physics and dynamic interactions. From blacksmithing to archery, users can engage in various professions and make choices that shape Henry’s destiny. The character’s appearance, skills, and equipment are fully customizable. The world, ranging from bustling cities to desolate forests, is filled with historical details such as bathhouses, castles, and inns.

Key Features:

Cinematic Storytelling: A film-like experience enriched with costumes and dialogues reflecting 15th-century Europe.
Unique Combat Mechanics: Real-time first-person sword fights, horseback battles, and stealth-based tactics.
Moral Choices: Players’ decisions directly impact character relationships and the world’s reactions.

Games Coming to Xbox Game Pass in February 2025: Far Cry, Starfield, and More - Gaming DB

Reuben — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 15:12:00 GMT

Xbox Game Pass February 2025 Games coming to Game Pass Far Cry New Dawn Game Pass

Games Coming to Xbox Game Pass in February 2025: Far Cry, Starfield, and More - Gaming DB

Reuben

• February 4, 2025

Games Coming to Xbox Game Pass in February 2025: Far Cry, Starfield, and More

The highly anticipated list of games coming to Xbox Game Pass in February 2025 has been officially revealed. From action-packed adventures to epic RPGs, February’s lineup is packed with exciting titles for Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, and Game Pass Standard members. Here’s everything you need to know, courtesy of Gaming DB.

Far Cry New Dawn | February 4th (Cloud, Console, PC)

Set in Montana’s Hope County 17 years after a global nuclear catastrophe, Far Cry New Dawn challenges players to fight against the Highwaymen and protect the last remaining resources. This action-packed title will be available on Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, and Game Pass Standard.

Another Crab’s Treasure | February 5th (Console)

Dive into a unique soulslike adventure as Kril, a hermit crab who uses trash as shells to survive in a decaying underwater world. Another Crab’s Treasure offers a fresh take on the genre and will be available via Game Pass Standard.

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes | February 5th (Console)

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a massive JRPG where players recruit over 100 heroes to shape their destiny. Explore a beautifully crafted 2.5D world filled with war, intrigue, and magic. This title will be available via Game Pass Standard.

Starfield | February 5th (Xbox Series X|S)

From Bethesda Game Studios, the creators of Skyrim and Fallout, comes Starfield—a groundbreaking RPG set among the stars. Create your character and embark on an epic journey to uncover humanity’s greatest mystery. Available via Game Pass Standard.

Madden NFL 25 | February 6th (Cloud, Console, PC) EA Play

Madden NFL 25 is coming to Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass members via EA Play. Dominate the field with enhanced gameplay and strategies. From February 6th to March 6th, players can also earn the Supercharge Pack.

Kingdom Two Crowns | February 13th (Cloud, Console)

Returning to the Game Pass library, Kingdom Two Crowns is a micro-strategy game where players build and defend their kingdom against the Greed threat. Enjoy new solo or co-op story modes, featuring new technology, units, enemies, and secrets. Available via Game Pass Ultimate and Game Pass Standard.

Avowed | February 18th (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S)

Developed by Obsidian Entertainment, Avowed is a first-person fantasy action RPG set in the fictional world of Eora. Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass members can purchase the Avowed Premium Upgrade Add-On for 5 days of early access, premium skins, and exclusive digital content.

Which Game Are You Most Excited For?

February 2025’s Xbox Game Pass lineup is stacked with incredible titles. Whether you’re into action, RPGs, or strategy games, there’s something for everyone. Stay tuned to Gaming DB for the latest updates on Game Pass and more!

New Content Pack from Helldivers 2: Servants of Freedom Warbond Arrives on February 6th

DS — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 13:16:13 GMT

helldivers helldivers 2 helldivers 2 new warband

New Content Pack from Helldivers 2: Servants of Freedom Warbond Arrives on February 6th

• February 4, 2025

New Content Pack from Helldivers 2: Servants of Freedom Warbond Arrives on February 6th

Arrowhead Game Studios has announced a new Warbond pack for Helldivers 2. Titled Servants of Freedom, the content will be released on February 6th, allowing players to equip themselves with new gear and armor that showcases their dedication to “Democracy.”

Highlighted Content:

B-100 Portable Hellbomb

This explosive, in a backpack format, starts a 10-second countdown and liberates everything in the vicinity, including Bile Titans or Automaton facilities.
Technical detail: The explosion cannot be canceled, so make sure to leave the area quickly after activation!

LAS-17 Double-Edge Sickle

Despite the risk of overheating, this laser weapon slices through enemies with a “beam of democracy,” offering high damage at the cost of potentially burning its user.

GP-20 Ultimatum

This grenade pistol, which acts like a steroid-powered bomb thrower at close range, can be equipped in the secondary weapon slot. But beware: Misuse can result in “liberating” yourself as well.

G-50 Seeker Drone

This small drone follows you and automatically detonates upon detecting enemies. You can also assign it a specific target if desired.

IE-3 Martyr and IE-12 Righteous Armor

Thanks to the Integrated Explosives passive feature, your death will take down surrounding enemies with you.
The design features monk-like cloaks and symbols of democracy. The armor can be combined with “Fre Liberam” and “Per Democrasum” cloaks.

The Servants of Freedom Warbond also offers a new player helmet (“Servant of Freedom”) and the “Arms Up” expression, allowing further customization of your character.

Bad News from Crysis 4!

EdgeTypE — Sun, 19 Jan 2025 15:01:14 GMT

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Bad News from Crysis 4!

EdgeTypE

• January 19, 2025

Concerning News from Crysis 4

Bad news has arrived for Crysis fans. Crysis 4’s director Mattias Engström quietly left Crytek three months ago. This development raises questions about the game’s development process.

Crysis 4’s Management Process

Three years ago, Crytek announced Crysis 4 with a brief teaser video and later revealed that Hitman 3’s successful director Mattias Engström would lead the project. However, it has emerged that Mattias Engström left Crytek in November 2024 and returned to his former company, IO Interactive.

Engström, who has started working as a Principal Game Designer in his new position at IO Interactive, departed without any official announcement from Crytek. Such a quiet change sends negative signals about the project’s internal workings.

What’s the Status of Crysis 4?

Currently, there is no clear information about Crysis 4’s development stage. The director’s departure could lead to changes in the game’s foundation and timeline. However, Crytek’s lack of updates on this matter increases our concerns. Since we don’t know the project’s current stage, we unfortunately cannot comment on this situation. If it’s in the early stages of development or if the development process is going poorly, this could herald the game’s cancellation; if it’s near the end of development or if the process is going well, it might have no effect at all.

In December, Crysis’s official Twitter account unfollowed several accounts. If we remember correctly, the official account was following the game’s director and community managers. If the project has been shelved, it would explain the current situation very well. Currently, the account only follows Crytek, Cevat Yerli, CryEngine, and Hunt: Showdown accounts.

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Conclusion

Mattias Engström’s departure raises questions about Crysis 4’s future. It remains to be seen how Crytek will manage the project despite this departure. Do you think this situation will affect the game’s quality and release date? It seems there’s nothing to do but wait for Crytek to make an announcement to learn more about Crysis 4. If there’s an update, we’ll share it with you.

Update 19.01.2025 17:38(GMT)

We looked at various Crytek employees’ LinkedIn accounts and noticed that some people working on Crysis 4 left Crytek in November 2024. Additionally, we saw that an employee who was working on Crysis 4 has now started working on Hunt: Showdown 1896 (another Crytek game) according to their social media.

In addition to all this, Jan David Hassel, who works as a Senior Game Designer on EA’s new Battlefield game, shared a post on his Bluesky account on December 9th saying “Layoffs at Crytek”.

The situation doesn’t look promising at all for Crysis 4. However, we can’t learn more until Crytek makes an announcement.

Update 22.01.2025 07:49(GMT)

We heard that Crytek is reading these lines. If you would like to share information with us, please contact us at edgetype@goygoyengine.com .

Update 04.02.2025 13:50(GMT)

Bri Williams, who worked as a Narrative Designer on Crysis 4, has left Crytek. In her LinkedIn post announcing her departure, she said it was time to leave Crytek as the company is now focusing more on Hunt: Showdown 1896.

We thought Crytek would focus on Crysis 4 after the release of Hunt: Showdown 1896, but the situation doesn’t look good for Crysis 4 at all. When Crytek was on the brink of bankruptcy, they survived thanks to Hunt: Showdown’s release. It seems more profitable for Crytek to work on an already successful service game than to create a new story-driven game from scratch. Unfortunately, we won’t be surprised if we hear news of Crysis 4’s cancellation soon.

Battlefield Labs Announced!

DS — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 19:25:01 GMT

Battlefield 7 Battlefield 6 release date Battlefield 2042 gameplay

Battlefield Labs Announced!

• February 3, 2025

Battlefield Labs Announced: The Franchise’s Largest Community Collaboration Project

The Battlefield series has been a pioneer in the world of war-themed games for over two decades. Today, Battlefield Labs, the franchise’s most ambitious community collaboration project to date, has been officially unveiled. This initiative aims to involve players directly in the development process, shaping the future of the series.

What is Battlefield Labs?

Battlefield Labs will play a critical role in developing the next installment of the series. The project allows players to test unreleased mechanics and concepts, providing developers with direct feedback. Vince Zampella, President of Respawn and Group General Manager of EA Studios, stated: “Battlefield Labs offers the perfect opportunity to test experiences our teams are working on. Community feedback will shape our future games.”

How Can You Participate?

Players interested in joining the first testing phase of Battlefield Labs can register at battlefield.com/labs. Initial tests will be conducted on select servers in Europe and North America, with plans to expand server locations and participant numbers in the future. Note that not all registrants will be invited. Selected players will receive an email notification from playtesting@ea.com.

Supported Platforms

Battlefield Labs will be accessible on PC (via EA App), PlayStation 5 (PlayStation Plus subscription required), and Xbox Series X|S (Xbox Game Pass Core subscription required). The project operates on an invitation-only basis, allowing participants to share feedback directly with developers during test sessions.

How Will Feedback Be Collected?

Battlefield Labs participants can communicate with development teams via a dedicated Discord channel. Feedback gathered will play a pivotal role in shaping the next Battlefield title. Insights from test sessions will also be shared through public updates, ensuring all players stay informed about the development process—even those unable to join the Labs.

Who Makes Up Battlefield Studios?

Battlefield Labs is developed under the Battlefield Studios umbrella, a coalition of four studios:

DICE (creator of the Battlefield series),
Ripple Effect (working to bring fresh experiences to the franchise),
Motive (known for titles like Star Wars Squadrons and Dead Space),
Criterion (renowned for globally acclaimed racing franchises).

This diverse team is united by a bold vision for the future of Battlefield.

Next Steps

Battlefield Labs marks a major step forward for the franchise. Player feedback will help developers prioritize features and deliver a more authentic Battlefield experience. Initial test sessions will begin in the coming weeks, offering participants a chance to become part of the development journey.

For more details and updates on Battlefield Labs, visit battlefield.com/labs.

Note: Participants in Battlefield Labs must sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) and cannot share any information about the testing process.

New Information About Battlefield 6 Coming Tomorrow!

BF Veteran — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 16:51:44 GMT

Battlefield 7 Battlefield 6 release date Battlefield 2042 gameplay

New Information About Battlefield 6 Coming Tomorrow!

BF Veteran

• February 2, 2025

First Test Announcement Coming for the New Battlefield Game!

Electronic Arts is preparing to share details about the first test program for the new Battlefield game. Announcements will be made tomorrow at 5PM CET / 8AM PDT through Battlefield’s official social media channels.

EA states that the new Battlefield game has been undergoing internal testing for a long time and is being played daily within the studio. Previously, it was announced that community testing would begin in 2025, and it appears the first steps of this process are now being taken.

Battlefield Returns to the Modern Era

According to previous information, the series will follow in the footsteps of Battlefield 3 and 4. The game is moving away from 2042’s futuristic theme and returning to a modern warfare setting. Additionally:

The classic class system is returning (removing the Specialist system)
Focus will be on 64-player battles instead of 128-player massive maps

All of EA Working Together

The new Battlefield is being developed under DICE’s leadership, but many studios including Criterion, Motive, and BioWare are also working as support teams. EA is placing significant importance on this game. If it doesn’t succeed, things could start going badly for EA.

When Are Epic Games Store Sales?

Skyline — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 19:17:45 GMT

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When Are Epic Games Store Sales?

Skyline

• February 1, 2025

Epic Games Store Sale Dates 2025

While there hasn’t been an official announcement regarding Epic Games Store’s 2025 sale dates, there are various predictions available. Based on these predictions, we expect the sales to occur on these dates:

Epic Savings Sale: January 23 - February 06, 2025
Winter Sale: February 10 - February 24, 2025
End of Winter Sale: March 6 - March 13, 2025
Spring Sale: March 13 - March 27, 2025
Mega Sale: May 15 - June 12, 2025
Summer Sale: July 17 - July 31, 2025
Halloween Sale: October 16 - October 30, 2025
Black Friday Sale: November 27 - December 4, 2025
Winter Sale: December 11, 2025 - January 8, 2026

What Time Do the Sales Start?

Epic Games typically starts their sales at 16:00 (UTC).

While these dates haven’t been officially confirmed, based on sale dates from previous years, a similar timeframe can be expected. We will update this page when Epic Games Store makes an official announcement.

Games Releasing in February: Kingdom Come, Avowed, and More!

Skyline — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 21:31:52 GMT

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Games Releasing in February: Kingdom Come, Avowed, and More!

Skyline

• January 31, 2025

Games Releasing in February 2025

2025 is moving fast. February is already here. We’ve listed the biggest games releasing this month for you:

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 | February 4th (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S)

A historically accurate action-RPG set in medieval Europe. In this sequel set in the lands of Bohemia, you’ll duel knights, hone your swordplay, and make strategic decisions to survive. Check out our review of the first game here.

Civilization 7 | February 11th (PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch)

For strategy game lovers, this one’s a no-brainer.

Tomb Raider 4-6 Remastered | February 14th (PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch)

Lara Croft’s classic late-90s and early-2000s adventures return with remastered graphics. Players can toggle between retro and modern visual modes to relive Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation, Tomb Raider: Chronicles, and Tomb Raider: Angel of Darkness.

Avowed | February 18th (PC, Xbox Series X|S)

A fantasy RPG from Obsidian Entertainment, focusing on magic and combat mechanics. Initially hyped as “Xbox’s Skyrim,” expectations shifted after Microsoft acquired Bethesda. Frankly, the game now looks like a half-baked student project. We’ve got zero hopes, but we’ll give it a shot at launch.

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii | February 21st (PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One)

A pirate-themed Yakuza game. After suffering amnesia, Majima battles pirates off the coast of Hawaii while chasing lost memories and a mysterious treasure.

Monster Hunter Wilds | February 28th (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S)

The latest entry in Capcom’s beloved series. Hunt colossal beasts with new mechanics, upgrade your gear, and survive a dangerous open world.

PGA Tour 2K25 | February 28th (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S)

If there are any golf enthusiasts among you, this is your game.

Which game are you most excited for this month? Let us know in the comments! (Seriously, please write.)

PC Gamers Rejoice! PlayStation Account Requirement Removed for PC Games

DS — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 18:16:24 GMT

sony playstation playstation account

PC Gamers Rejoice! PlayStation Account Requirement Removed for PC Games

• January 29, 2025

Sony Removes PlayStation Account Requirement for PC Games

PlayStation announced that it has removed the mandatory PlayStation Network (PSN) account linking requirement for upcoming games on PC. However, exclusive content will be offered to players who choose to link their accounts.

Optional Account Linking and Rewards

PSN accounts will no longer be mandatory for PC games, but users who link their accounts will gain access to the following additional content:

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Spider-Man 2099 Black Suit and Miles Morales 2099 Suit.
God of War Ragnarok
Kratos’ “Black Bear Armor Set” + resource pack (500 Hacksilver + 250 XP).
The Last of Us Part II Remastered
Ellie’s “Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet” themed Jordan Jacket + 50 bonus points.
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered
Nora Valiant outfit.

The PlayStation account requirement had sparked significant backlash, particularly during the Helldivers 2 controversy, where Sony was forced to backtrack. With ongoing criticism, the company now appears to have decided to completely withdraw the requirement.

Trillions of New Planets Added to No Man's Sky!

Skyline — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 14:57:07 GMT

No Man's Sky Worlds Part 2 No Man's Sky update No Man's Sky new planets

Trillions of New Planets Added to No Man's Sky!

Skyline

• January 29, 2025

No Man’s Sky: Worlds Part II Update Announced!

No Man’s Sky expands its universe further with the 5.5 Worlds Part II update! New stars, planets, stories, and unique biomes await discovery. This update introduces fresh mechanics, enhanced visuals, and numerous innovations. Here are the highlights:

🚀 The Universe Grows Even Larger!

New Purple-Class Stars: These systems host countless uncharted planets and unlock a new storyline.
Gas Giants: Massive planets with extreme pressure, intense gravity, and hazardous atmospheres now orbit the skies alongside their moons.

Relic Worlds: Explore ancient ruins of fallen civilizations and uncover their secrets on these historical planets.
Floating Islands: These landmasses now appear across a wider variety of planets, expanding building and exploration opportunities.

🌊 Underwater Worlds Evolve!

Deep Oceans: Discover new flora, mineral formations, and creatures in sunlight-deprived abyssal zones.
Enhanced Water Graphics: Realistic wave and reflection effects make water surfaces more immersive than ever.

Seahorses, Manta Rays, and Giant Squids: New marine life enriches underwater exploration.
Submarine Platform: The Nautilon submarine can now be summoned from a deployable floating platform.
Deep-Sea Hazards: Ultra-deep waters introduce new dangers. Hunt exotic creatures and minerals using Pressure Membrane gear.

🌎 Environmental Enhancements & New Mechanics!

Dense Forests: Each forest now features unique color palettes and vegetation.
Atmospheric Threats: New environmental hazards like radioactive fallout, volcanic eruptions, and toxic spore clouds challenge explorers.

Bioluminescent Lifeforms: Encounter glowing nocturnal creatures and bizarre organisms.
Dynamic Water Physics: Water bodies now interact dynamically with objects, featuring surface waves and currents for realistic exploration.

🛠️ Gameplay Improvements!

New Inventory System: Auto-sort inventory by name, type, value, or color with one click. Items now stack automatically.
Advanced Mod Support: Improved compatibility and management tools for modders.
Starship Cold Storage: Store additional ships in your freighter and summon them when needed.

🎣 New Activities & Exploration Content!

Fishing Missions: Accept single-player or multiplayer fishing quests from space station agents.
Deep-Sea Guardian: Anger a colossal aquatic guardian while fishing. Defeat it to earn the Child of Aquarius title!
Titan Expedition: Join Expedition Seventeen: Titan to explore gas giants and earn exclusive rewards.

🎨 Visual & Graphical Upgrades!

Lighting Overhaul: Revised light sources, surface reflections, and ambient lighting.
Enhanced Shadows: Micro-shadowing technology adds sharper contrasts to creatures and ships.
Faster Load Times: New compression tech reduces file sizes while speeding up load times by 4x!

No Man’s Sky continues to push the boundaries of exploration with every update. Prepare to challenge the limits of discovery in the Worlds Part II update! 🚀🌌

Games Coming to Game Pass in January Including Sniper Elite, Far Cry...

Skyline — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 17:33:03 GMT

game pass Xbox gamepass gamepass

Games Coming to Game Pass in January Including Sniper Elite, Far Cry...

Skyline

• January 21, 2025

Games Coming to Game Pass in January

The games coming to Xbox Game Pass in the first month of 2025 have been announced. Here is the complete list of titles joining in January:

Flock (Console) | January 22

Flock is a multiplayer co-op game where you’ll enjoy flying with friends and collecting cute flying creatures. Search for rare and unique creatures to add to your flock while gliding through beautiful landscapes.

Gigantic: Rampage Edition (Cloud, Console, PC) | January 22

This game is the premium and most comprehensive version of the 5v5 MOBA-style hero shooter. Choose one of the heroes with unique abilities, protect your massive Guardians with your team, and defeat the enemy team.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess (Console) | January 22

This single-player Kagura action-strategy game with Japanese influences requires you to purify villages during the day and fight hordes at night to cleanse the corruption over the mountains.

Magical Delicacy (Console) | January 22

In this charming pixel art platformer, you can cook magical recipes and explore a town to offer delicious treats. Discover new paths and uncover secrets.

Tchia (Xbox Series X|S) | January 22

Join Tchia’s story in a tropical open-world adventure as she tries to rescue her father from a cruel tyrant. Explore the islands with physics-based mechanics like climbing, gliding, and sailing.

The Case of the Golden Idol (Console) | January 22

In this point-and-click adventure game, examine clues to solve mysteries of magic, chaos, and gruesome murders, and uncover the secrets of a cursed legacy.

Starbound (Cloud, Console) | January 22

Previously available on PC Game Pass, Starbound is now coming to Xbox and cloud players. In this game where you can write your own story, you can either save the universe or colonize planets.

Eternal Strands (Cloud, Console, PC) | January 28

Eternal Strands, the first fantasy game from Yellow Brick Games, is an action-adventure game where you combine your magic abilities and powerful weapons to save the world.

Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) | January 28

In this action-packed third-person defense game, destroy enemies and set traps as an Orc-slaying War Mage with rogue-lite choices to win the battle.

Shady Part of Me (Cloud, Console, PC) | January 29

Shady Part of Me is a game that offers an emotional journey with its visual art direction. Overcome challenges in this story that progresses with the cooperation of a little girl and her shadow.

Sniper Elite: Resistance (Cloud, Console, PC) | January 30

This new game in the award-winning Sniper Elite series takes you to a covert war deep in occupied France. Additionally, the entire story mode can be played in co-op.

Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) | January 31

The sequel to the acclaimed 2022 RPG, Citizen Sleeper 2, offers a survival and contract completion struggle in the depths of the Starward Belt as a fugitive android.

Far Cry New Dawn (Cloud, Console, PC) | February 4

Seventeen years after a nuclear disaster, fight against the Highwaymen group battling for resources in the vibrant and transformed world of Hope County.

Helldivers 2 Review

EdgeTypE — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 14:01:59 GMT

helldivers helldivers 2 helldivers 2 review

Helldivers 2 Review

EdgeTypE

• January 17, 2025

Helldivers 2 is the best online game I’ve ever played. I have no idea how anyone could make something better than this. Even the best games have some shortcomings. You might say Red Dead Redemption 2 has slow pacing, God of War’s boss fights aren’t that great, but here I can’t think of even the slightest criticism.

Gaming-DB

MASTERPIECE

Helldivers 2

MASTERPIECE

Helldivers 2

Helldivers 2 is the best online game I've ever played. I have no idea how anyone could make something better than this.

pros

cons

Action

Gameplay

Atmosphere

Limited long-term content

What’s All the Fuss About?

Helldivers 2 is the pinnacle of what an online game can be. A masterpiece. You are part of a military unit called Helldiver, invading planets in the galaxy and spreading democracy. That’s the game. The whole game feels like a parody. As a citizen of a planet called Super Earth, you bring democracy to other planets. You liberate other planets.

There is no main menu in the game. You start the game and it throws you into your own spaceship. You handle everything here. There is a galactic war map on the deck of the ship. Sometimes we, as humanity, invade a planet, and sometimes enemy races invade our planets and we try to defend them. The game works entirely on a cooperative basis. You can’t change the course of the war on your own. Each planet has a liberation percentage. When you complete a mission, its effect is something like 0.00001%. Only if all players work together cooperatively can you liberate that planet. This is what made the game so popular.

Helldivers 2 is originally a PlayStation exclusive game. We are used to PlayStation exclusive games coming to PC a few years after their release, but this game came to PC from day one. Normally, some PlayStation fans were angry about their games coming to PC, but something different happened with Helldivers 2. To spread democracy and liberate planets, PlayStation fans even wanted the game to come to Xbox.

Our Galactic Government sends the same order to all players and gives the same reward to everyone if they complete it. For example, protect this planet from the insect invasion. Invade these planets and take them from the Automatons. And so on.

Naturally, all players dive into these planets. You also gather a team of up to 4 people and dive into the planets.

By diving, I don’t mean just fighting. You really dive. After selecting one of the missions on the planet, you get into the hellpods on your spaceship and they launch you to the planets. The music that plays during this descent is something like DI DI DI DIIIN. A short rhythm that gets you in the mood. Almost every time we enter a mission, we shout “DI DI DI DIINN” during the loading screen. There are a few iconic themes that come to mind when you think of iconic music: Star Wars, Pirates of the Caribbean… I’m serious, Helldivers’ DI DI DI DIIN has that level of iconicity.

Anyway, let’s dive into the game. “DI DI DI DIINN”

Basic Gameplay

When you land on the planet, the first thing you do is prepare your equipment. You have equipment called stratagems. You can call them by entering various combinations with the directional buttons. For example, to make an orbital laser attack, you do right, down, up, right, down. Or if you want to call for reinforcement ammo, you do down, down, up, right.

Each piece of equipment, each stratagem has its own code. Instead of selecting equipment from a menu, we call our equipment with this mini-game. And when things get complicated, when you enter these codes incorrectly during the action, it creates even more chaos.

Let’s continue with the game. There are 3 types of stratagems in the game: Attack, support, and defense. You choose 4 of them that suit your game plan from among the many stratagems and go on a mission. You need to choose these stratagems carefully. You need to make a selection with your teammates according to your mission. For example, if you are going on a defense mission, one of your friends takes a turret, and you take an airstrike to quickly clear large groups of enemies. And so on.

We landed on the planet, if we have a stratagem that provides us with extra weapons, we called it. Now what? We open the map and go to the mission. There are a few main missions on the map, and various side missions. These side missions are not marked on the map. They appear as you explore the map. If you complete these missions, you can find extra resources or make the mission easier. For example, let’s say you find an air defense system that has been disabled by the enemy while exploring. You can make it operational again and secure the airspace. What does this mean? Enemy reinforcement ships are no longer a problem for you. Or you find something like a field gun while exploring. You can carry 4-5 shells and benefit from these artillery strikes throughout the mission. The order in which you load the shells even affects the game. The shells explode in the order you placed them. People have even started making guides on the internet for the most efficient shell order. Helldivers 2 is that crazy. The side content doesn’t end there. For example, if you are playing against insects, if you destroy the insect nests around, fewer insects will swarm you.

Unmatched Action

After completing the main missions on the map, you have the chance to leave the planet. You can go to the extraction point and call a ship to pick you up from the planet. Until the ship arrives, all the enemies on the map swarm you and you have to defend the area. When you use all your remaining equipment and barely get on the ship, the enjoyment you get from the game reaches its peak.

The chaos and action in this game are unmatched in any other game. You see things at the end of each match that you wouldn’t see even in a cutscene in any other game. There is a real battlefield atmosphere. I’m sure you haven’t seen such a battlefield in Battlefield or Call of Duty. One place is exploding, another place is exploding. Enemies are swarming you from everywhere. While all this is happening, you find yourself out of ammo and start running. Your stamina runs out. With your last bit of energy, you dive forward, pull out your pistol, and try to hold on to life. If that doesn’t work, you sacrifice yourself and launch missiles at yourself. Writing this makes me want to play.

You Are Not a Super Soldier, You Are Just a Soldier

In this game, you don’t control someone with superpowers. You are just a soldier. A pawn. You can be sacrificed. The game has a very realistic structure. Generally, the more realistic a game is, the closer it gets to being boring. Because reality is not very fun most of the time. The balance here is very well maintained. You control a character and this character is constantly interacting with the game world. You can fall, slide on slippery surfaces. We saw a jetpack and took it with a friend. We crashed to the ground every time we landed. For example, when you shoot, the bullet doesn’t go to the center of the screen. You have a reticle in the center of the screen, but the place where the bullet will go is shown with a circle. I think it was like this in War Thunder too. The bullet doesn’t come out of the camera, it comes out of the gun, and the position of the gun is constantly moving according to your character’s movement. Naturally, aiming becomes more difficult as you run and jump around. If you want, you can switch to a first-person perspective when aiming. But this doesn’t make things easier most of the time.

Don’t get me wrong, these difficulties don’t make the game boring. On the contrary, they make it much more enjoyable.

We dived into a planet with 4 people. We completed all the main missions, while the other 3 were handling the side missions, I went to the extraction point. I thought I would start the extraction process to save time while they were coming here. But insects kept swarming me. In the end, I ran out of ammo. I thought I would call for reinforcement ammo. The reinforcement I called fell on my head and I died. I can’t be mad at the game because it’s clear where the reinforcement package will fall. It’s entirely my fault. The game doesn’t allow for such mistakes and this is really enjoyable.

However, I don’t think the game would be this enjoyable if you don’t play it with your friends. If you are looking for someone to play with, we often play on our Discord server. We would be happy to have you.

Let’s continue praising the game. Because this is really one of the highest points any online game can reach. With its graphics, atmosphere, animations, everything is of the highest quality. If you made a story-driven game without touching the mechanics, it wouldn’t look out of place. On top of all this, the game’s excellent presentation makes it a really great game. When you think of presentation, you usually think of cutscenes. I’m not talking about that. From the way the game gives missions to the player to the dialogues within the missions, this concept of SPREADING DEMOCRACY is very well handled. It’s clear that this is a work of passion. In recent years, many service games that were seen as easy money-making tools have come out and failed quickly. They were all games that were not thought out and were only aimed at making money. Helldivers 2, on the other hand, is a game that has been thought out and made with passion, unlike all these games. That’s why it’s so successful.

Gaming-DB

MASTERPIECE

Helldivers 2

MASTERPIECE

Helldivers 2

Helldivers 2 is the best online game I've ever played. I have no idea how anyone could make something better than this.

pros

cons

Action

Gameplay

Atmosphere

Limited long-term content

Watch this review in video format.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance Review

EdgeTypE — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 14:01:59 GMT

Kingdom Come: Deliverance Kingdom Come: Deliverance Review Kingdom Come: Deliverance score

Kingdom Come: Deliverance Review

EdgeTypE

• January 3, 2025

Henry’s life of idleness changes when his town is burned and destroyed.

This might be the most realistic and difficult game I’ve ever played. I even used cheats and still couldn’t succeed. It’s very difficult.

Gaming-DB

Kingdom Come: Deliverance

Henry's life of idleness changes when his town is burned and destroyed.

pros

cons

RPG experience

Quest variety

Atmosphere

Unnecessarily difficult

Kingdom Come: Deliverance is a medieval RPG based on realism. You control Henry, a peasant no different from any other. You play as Henry, who knows neither how to use a sword nor possesses any skills. As you progress through the story, you witness the development of your character from nothing.

Story

Kingdom Come: Deliverance takes you to the Kingdom of Bohemia in 1403. Our main character Henry spends his life idly in his village. One day, while reluctantly helping his blacksmith father, their village is attacked by Sigismund and his army. The villagers and Henry try to take refuge in the castle, but Henry sees his father fighting to save his mother. Henry tries to help them, but his family is killed before he can reach them. As he tries to return to the castle, the gates close. The soldiers at the gate tell Henry to go to the town of Talmberg and warn them. Henry steals a horse and sets off. On the way, Sigismund’s soldiers find him and chase him until he reaches Talmberg. The lord of Talmberg listens to Henry and, as a precaution, forbids him from leaving the castle. However, Henry wants to return to his village to dig graves for his parents.

Henry needs to find a way to leave the castle. You can either persuade the guard to let you escape or find an opening to sneak out. The game offers a lot of variety in completing tasks, and since you control an ordinary peasant, you have to make use of these options. At the beginning of the game, Henry doesn’t even know how to use a sword, but you can turn him into a warrior if you want. Or you can rely on your persuasion skills to avoid fighting. It’s entirely up to you.

Gameplay

I generally tried to solve my problems by talking. Because the combat system of the game is really difficult. It has an attack and defense system similar to Mount & Blade. When you attack or defend, you give direction to your move. For example, if your opponent holds their shield on the left, you need to attack their right side. But you have to do this quickly, otherwise, your opponent can easily turn their shield to the right. We mentioned this in our Hellblade 2 review. Games are often a power fantasy for us. The enemies we face are usually much weaker than the character we control. But that’s not the case here. Most of the people you encounter are clearly stronger than you. So you die with the slightest mistake.I tried to play the game with a cheat that allows you to one-shot all your opponents. But even this cheat didn’t make the game easy. Because I could barely attack the enemy. I draw my sword, just about to attack, and they immediately guard that direction. I draw my sword to attack the right side, then switch to the left at the last moment to make my opponent think I’m attacking the right. With the slightest timing mistake, they immediately guard themselves.

The developer of the game, Warhorse Studios, wanted to create a combat system that is easy to learn but hard to master. But they only succeeded in making it hard to master. If you’ve watched videos of the game, you might think the combat looks bad and boring. It really does look boring when you watch it, but when you play, it’s much more engaging because you’re fighting for survival. However, when the fights drag on, you start to get bored. Especially if you’re fighting multiple opponents, it takes minutes to defeat them, even with cheats. That’s why I tried to avoid combat as much as possible.

For example, in one mission, we had to infiltrate a castle. The game wanted me to neutralize the guards and pass through the gate. But I didn’t have the strength to do that. I caught one of the guards off guard and took his clothes. Then I walked up to the other guards. They were surprised to see a new face and started asking me questions. I said something like, “Why would I be here at this hour if I wasn’t sent for guard duty?” The guards were convinced and left their posts to rest. I proceeded easily.

There are generally four ways to solve problems in the game:

You can persuade by talking. For this, you need to develop your character in this direction.
You can deceive with charisma. For this, you need to dress in fancy clothes like noble attire.
You can intimidate with strength. If your character is a warrior, most people will be afraid of you and do what you want.
You can fight directly. You can also die easily.

However, the game offers many alternative ways within the missions. In another mission, a noble named Hans Capon asked me to enter a warehouse and get something. The warehouse belonged to his family, and he could easily get it himself, but he preferred to order a peasant. I went to the warehouse, but everything was locked. If you’ve developed your lockpicking skills, you can open the doors. If not, you need to find another way. I hadn’t developed my skills, so I needed another way. I went back and stole Hans Capon’s key. Then I went to the warehouse and opened the doors with the key. I took the item inside and returned. Hans Capon asked how I got into the warehouse. I told him I stole his key. Hans Capon liked my approach and told me to keep the key. After all, he could enter whenever he wanted, as everyone was at his command.

A More Detailed Look at the Combat System

Every move you make takes some of your stamina. So making quick moves is usually to your detriment. Taking damage and defending also consume stamina. You can hold your shield up all night as long as your stamina doesn’t run out. That’s why you need to make perfect defenses. When you make a perfect defense, no stamina is consumed, and you have a great opportunity to attack your opponent.

Atmosphere

The game has beautiful, realistic visuals. It is developed with the CryEngine game engine, known from the Crysis games. Even though the game is 6 years old, it still has graphics that would be acceptable today. The music is also very successful in reflecting the era you are in.

Cinematics

For some reason, I really liked the cinematics of the game. I took screenshots of almost every scene. When I finished the game, I had over 300 screenshots on Steam. There aren’t any extraordinary things happening in the cinematics, but the camera angles and cinematography look very nice. It feels like you’re watching a movie. Normally, we don’t see multiple storylines at the same time in games. We always see what happens to our character, but in the cutscenes, we also see what our enemies are doing on their own. This is something we don’t see in most games, and I really liked it.

Characters

I really liked the characters and their development in the game. I don’t remember seeing better character development in any other game. A small spoiler.

At the beginning of the game, Hans Capon, who makes you hate him, becomes your companion by the end of the game. If I had the chance, I would have killed Hans at the beginning of the game, I was so angry. But as the game progresses, you become friends and allies. And the game does this very well.

Normally, I don’t remember the names of side characters in the games I play or the movies and series I watch. But in this game, there are many memorable characters like Hans Capon, Sir Divish, Sir Radzig, and Captain Bernand.

The Director’s Influence

The director of Kingdom Come: Deliverance, Daniel Vávra, is also the director of Mafia 1 and 2. I want to talk about this. Let me warn you, I’m going to get into spoilers. If you’re thinking of playing Kingdom Come: Deliverance, I don’t recommend reading this.

You can see that Daniel Vávra likes to deal with a heavy realism theme in his games. I haven't finished Mafia 2, but I guess it has the same thing I'm about to mention. Daniel Vávra seems to like writing about characters who start from nothing and slowly rise to the top. In Mafia, we witnessed the rise of Tommy Angelo, an ordinary taxi driver, to the top of the Mafia. In Kingdom Come: Deliverance, we witness Henry's rise from being a nobody, an ordinary peasant, to becoming a warrior. Henry rises so much that it turns out his father was actually a noble. Henry starts his journey as a nobody and ends it by visiting another lord with a noble to solve national issues. I like it when a director/writer/creator has a unique style. These actions become their signature in a way. Let's see what kind of story they'll tell in the second game.

Is Kingdom Come: Deliverance Worth Playing?

If you like RPG games, I definitely recommend checking it out. The realism of the game might be frustrating at first, but I still suggest giving it a chance. I first played the game 4-5 years ago with the free version of GeForce Now on my 6 mbit internet. Epic Games had given Kingdom Come: Deliverance for free, and I wanted to play it, but my computer at the time couldn’t run the game. So I tried playing it with GeForce Now. With my 6 mbit and very unstable internet, I played the game for 10 hours. Most of the time, my gaming experience was like watching a 5 fps 144p video on YouTube. It took me hours to get through the horse scene at the beginning of the game because I couldn’t see where I was going in the pixelated landscape. When I reached Rattay and started combat training, I had to quit the game. My internet was slow, and there was a lot of lag. It was impossible to play a game that doesn’t allow for mistakes with lag. I had to quit the game there. Time passed, and recently the game came to mind, so I started playing again. Now I’m writing these lines. I finished the game in 35 hours. I didn’t do many side quests and used fast travel as much as possible. With side quests and DLCs, you can easily play for 50-60 hours.

Gaming-DB

Kingdom Come: Deliverance

Henry's life of idleness changes when his town is burned and destroyed.

pros

cons

RPG experience

Quest variety

Atmosphere

Unnecessarily difficult

Watch this review in video format.

What's New on Epic Games Store? Complete List of Free Games

Skyline — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 19:00:00 GMT

epic games store epic games free games

What's New on Epic Games Store? Complete List of Free Games

Skyline

• December 19, 2024

Epic Games Store Free Games

Find all currently free games on the Epic Games Store here. Epic Games Store offers at least one free game every week. You can add these games to your library and own them permanently. Here are all the currently free games:

Current Free Game

Vampire Survivors
- Free Period: December 19-20, 2024
- About the Game: Vampire Survivors is a roguelite top-down shooter game where you must survive the night by fighting against hordes of vampires. Choose your character, weapons, and abilities wisely to survive the night and defeat the vampire lord.

How to Get Free Games

Getting free games from Epic Games Store is easy:

Visit Epic Games Store Website:
- Go to Epic Games Store
Sign in to Your Account:
- Create a new account if you don’t have one.
Find and Add the Free Game to Your Library:
- Locate the free game on the page and click “Get”. Click “Place Order” in the popup window to add the game to your library.

Previously Free Games

Game Name	Free Period
Vampire Survivors	December 19-20
The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria	December 12-19
Bus Simulator 21 Next Stop	5–12 Aralık
LEGO® Star Wars™: The Skywalker Saga	5–12 Aralık
Brotato	28 Kasım–5 Aralık
Beholder	November 21–28
Snakebird Complete	November 14-21
Castlevania Anniversary Collection	November 14-21
Deceive Inc.	November 7–14
Witch It	October 31–November 7
Ghostwire: Tokyo	October 31–November 7
Moving Out	October 24–31
Kardboard Kings: Card Shop Simulator	October 17–24
Invincible Presents: Atom Eve	October 17–24
Empyrion - Galactic Survival	October 10–17
Outliver: Tribulation	October 10–17
Bear and Breakfast	October 3–10
The Spirit and the Mouse	September 26–October 3
The Last Stand: Aftermath	September 19–26
Toem	September 19–26
Super Crazy Rhythm Castle	September 12–19
Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland	September 12–19
Sniper Ghost Warrior Contracts	September 5–12
Football Manager 2024	September 5–12
Wild Card Football	August 29–September 5
Fallout Classic Edition	August 29–September 5
The Callisto Protocol	August 22–29
Gigantic: Rampage Edition	August 22–29
World of Warships – Starter Pack: Albany	August 15–22
Death’s Gambit: Afterlife	August 15–22
CYGNI: All Guns Blazing	August 8–15
DNF Duel	August 8–15
Rawmen: Food Fighter Arena	August 1–8
LumbearJack	August 1–8
F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch	July 25–August 1
Maid of Sker	July 18–25
Arcade Paradise	July 18–25
Floppy Knights	July 11–18
The Falconeer	July 4–11
Sunless Skies: Sovereign Edition	June 27–July 4
Freshly Frosted	June 20–27
Idle Champions Of The Forgotten Realms	June 13–20
Redout 2	June 13–20
Marvel’s Midnight Suns	June 6–13
Chivalry 2	May 30–June 6
Farming Simulator 22	May 23–30
Dragon Age: Inquisition – Game Of The Year Edition	May 16–23
Firestone: Online Idle RPG Offer	May 9–16
Circus Electrique	May 9–16
Orcs Must Die! 3	May 2–9
Cat Quest 2	May 2–9
Lisa: Definitive Edition	April 25–May 2
Industria	April 25–May 2
Town of Salem 2	April 18–25
The Big Con	April 18–25
Ghostrunner	April 11–18
Thief	March 4–April 11
The Outer Worlds: Spacer’s Choice Edition	March 4–April 11
Islets	March 28–April 4
Invincible Presents: Atom Eve	March 21–28
Call of The Wild: The Angler	March 21–28
Deus Ex: Mankind Divided	March 14–21
The Bridge	March 14–21
Astro Duel 2	March 7–14
Aerial_Knight’s Never Yield	February 29–March 7
Super Meat Boy Forever	February 22–29
Dakar Desert Rally	February 15–22
Lost Castle	February 8–15
Doki Doki Literature Club Plus!	February 8–15
Doors: Paradox	February 1–8
Infinifactory	January 25–February 1
Love	January 18–25
Sail Forth	January 11–18
Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy	January 4–11
A Plague Tale: Innocence	January 3–4
20 Minutes Till Dawn	January 2–3
Escape Academy	January 1–2

Upcoming Free Games

Epic Games starts to give mystery games for free after the current free game ends. We can’t know what the next free game will be until it’s announced. Keep an eye on the Epic Games Store to catch the next free game!

Fortnite is Getting a VALORANT Mode!

Skyline — Sat, 07 Dec 2024 14:11:40 GMT

Epic Games Fortnite Fortnite Ballistic

Fortnite is Getting a VALORANT Mode!

Skyline

• December 7, 2024

Fortnite Ballistic Arrives with Early Access!

On December 11th, a brand new mode is being added to the Fortnite universe: Fortnite Ballistic! This tactical FPS mode played from a first-person perspective will emphasize strategy, teamwork, and individual skills in a 5v5 format.

What is Fortnite Ballistic?

Ballistic is a round-based mode with high competitive intensity. Players are divided into two teams at the start of each match as attackers and defenders:

Attackers: Attempt to install the Rift Point Device in a specific area of the map.
Defenders: Focus on preventing the installation and detonation of this device.

To win a match, you need to secure a total of 7 rounds. Teams switch roles every 6 rounds, with defenders becoming attackers and vice versa.

Initial Features

Ballistic will launch in early access with the Metropol 10 map. Initially, there will be a limited number of weapons and items, but new maps, equipment, and mechanics will be added based on player feedback.

Items and Weapons

Players start with a Guardian Pistol and 800 Credits. Credits can be earned through eliminations or by placing the Rift Point Device. These credits can be used to purchase new weapons and equipment at the start of each round.

Pump Shotgun: Effective at close range.
Sniper Rifle: Creates significant impact with a single shot.
Smoke Grenade and Flash Grenade: Provide strategic advantages.

Flex Devices

Each player can choose a Flex Device at the start of the match. These devices are powerful enough to change the course of a round:

Proximity Mine
Shield Bubble
Reconnaissance Grenade
Dispersal Bomb Device
Fragment Effect Hand Grenade

Ranked and Unranked Modes

Unranked: Offers a relaxed environment for players to get to know the mode and have fun.
Ranked: For players seeking a more competitive experience. Leaving ranked matches can result in rank loss and penalties.

Compatibility and Customization

Ballistic is a build-less mode. You can use many cosmetics from your Fortnite locker, such as outfits, back blings, and expressions.
The game can be played on all platforms that support Fortnite (except South Korea and Russia).

Early Access Begins

This strategy and excitement-filled new mode starts on December 11th, 2024! Take your place in Fortnite Ballistic and enjoy the first-person action!

Hunt Showdown 1896 is Coming to Game Pass!

Skyline — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 20:05:57 GMT

Hunt: Showdown 1896 Hunt: Showdown download Hunt: Showdown Steam

Hunt Showdown 1896 is Coming to Game Pass!

Skyline

• December 6, 2024

Hunt: Showdown 1896 is Coming to Xbox Game Pass!

Hunt: Showdown 1896 is joining the Xbox Game Pass library on December 12. With this development, Xbox Series S|X users will have access to both the base game and the new event, Post Malone’s Murder Circus.

Post Malone’s Murder Circus Event is Starting!

All Xbox Series S|X Game Pass subscribers experiencing Hunt: Showdown 1896 will have the opportunity to participate in the Murder Circus event, created in collaboration with Post Malone. This event promises to deliver an unprecedented experience in the gaming world.

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Review Scores Released

Skyline — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 07:39:54 GMT

indiana Jones and the Great Circle Indiana Jones game Indiana Jones review scores

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Review Scores Released

Skyline

• December 6, 2024

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Review Scores Released

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is set to meet players on December 9th. Although the previously announced high system requirements have worried many players, the game’s review scores paint a very impressive picture.

The game’s MetaCritic average is currently 87, while on OpenCritic it stands at 86. Unfortunately, we did not receive a review code, so we will experience the game after its release and prepare a comprehensive review. However, the scores given by many major game media outlets are already creating excitement among gamers.

Here are the scores from some review outlets:

Platform	Score
Eurogamer	5 / 5
GamesRadar+	5 / 5
TechRaptor	10 / 10
Digitec Magazine	5 / 5
Saving Content	5 / 5
MonsterVine	5 / 5
ZTGD	9.5 / 10
GamingTrend	95 / 100
Areajugones	9.2 / 10
GAMES.CH	91%
IGN	9 / 10
GameSpot	9 / 10
Shacknews	9 / 10
Gaming Nexus	9 / 10
Stevivor	9 / 10
The Outerhaven Productions	4.5 / 5
GamingBolt	9 / 10
Impulsegamer	4.5 / 5
PPE.pl	9 / 10
IGN Spain	9 / 10
MondoXbox	9 / 10
Hey Poor Player	4.5 / 5
XboxEra	9 / 10
Daily Star	4.5 / 5
Console Creatures	9 / 10
Siliconera	9 / 10
Gamer.no	9 / 10
Everyeye.it	8.8 / 10
Gamersky	8.8 / 10
Hobby Consolas	87 / 100
PC Gamer	86 / 100
Press Start	8.5 / 10
Gamers Heroes	85 / 100
LevelUp	8.5 / 10
ZdobywcyGier.eu	8.5 / 10
One More Game	8.5 / 10
GameOnly	8.5 / 10
Quest Daily	8.5 / 10
Multiplayer First	8.5 / 10
Merlin’in Kazanı	84 / 100
GamePro	83 / 100
Lords Of Gaming	8.2 / 10
INVEN	8.2 / 10
Game Rant	8 / 10
Hardcore Gamer	4 / 5
God is a Geek	8 / 10
TheSixthAxis	8 / 10
Destructoid	8 / 10
Digital Trends	4 / 5
Daily Mirror	4 / 5
Paste Magazine	8 / 10
Spaziogames	8 / 10
Worth Playing	8 / 10
IGN Deutschland	8 / 10
But Why Tho?	8 / 10
Gamer Guides	79 / 100
TheGamer	3.5 / 5
CGMagazine	7 / 10
Sirus Gaming	7 / 10
Noisy Pixel	7 / 10
Gamepressure	7 / 10
Too Much Gaming	3.5 / 5
Kakuchopurei	60 / 100

Available on Game Pass from Day One

The game will be included in the Game Pass library from day one. If you are subscribed to the service, we recommend giving it a try.

Are the review scores for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle enough for you? Don’t forget to share your experiences with us when the game is released!

Ubisoft Will Continue Making Live Service Games!

Skyline — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 10:01:40 GMT

Ubisoft live service games XDefiant shutdown Ubisoft studio closures

Ubisoft Will Continue Making Live Service Games!

Skyline

• December 4, 2024

Ubisoft: We Will Continue with Live Service Games

Ubisoft announced today that they are halting the development of XDefiant and beginning the process of shutting down the game. However, the most noteworthy part of this announcement was Ubisoft’s statement that they will continue to focus on live service games despite the failure.

XDefiant’s Closure and Studio Shutdowns

Despite XDefiant’s initially promising start, it was stated that the game failed to reach a sufficient player base in the long term. Ubisoft explained that the game was not sustainable and therefore not worth significant investment. Following this decision, Ubisoft’s San Francisco and Osaka studios will close, while operations in Sydney will be significantly downsized. Approximately 277 employees will lose their jobs.

The Irony of “Live Services Are Successful!”

Following such negative news, Ubisoft’s statement that “Live service games will remain the cornerstone of our strategy” drew attention. The company pointed to games like Rainbow Six Siege, For Honor, and The Crew as “success stories.” However, it presents an ironic picture to talk about the success of this strategy while closing failed live service games and shutting down studios.

Marie-Sophie de Waubert stated in her announcement:

“We will apply what we’ve learned from XDefiant to our future live service games. We are committed to taking steps toward innovation, growth, and creativity.”

Persistence with Live Service Strategy

In recent years, Ubisoft continues to embrace the live service model despite high costs and challenging development processes. However, the failure of projects like XDefiant raises questions about how sustainable this strategy is. The challenges of retaining the player base show that Ubisoft risks losing more projects in this highly competitive market.

Ubisoft’s insistence on live service games becomes even more controversial with failed projects and studio closures. Bright days don’t seem to be ahead for Ubisoft.

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Disappoints with System Requirements!

Skyline — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 08:04:00 GMT

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle system requirements Indiana Jones system requirements Indiana Jones PC requirements

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Disappoints with System Requirements!

Skyline

• December 4, 2024

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle System Requirements Revealed

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is preparing for its release on December 9. However, the announced system requirements have already sparked debate among players. The high-end graphic details and hardware demands are particularly noteworthy. Here are the system requirements needed to play the game:

Minimum Requirements

Operating System: 64-bit Windows 10
Processor: Intel Core i7-10700K @ 3.8 GHz or AMD Ryzen 5 3600 @ 3.6 GHz
Memory: 16 GB RAM
Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 SUPER 8 GB or AMD Radeon RX 6600 8 GB
Storage: 120 GB SSD (mandatory)
Extra: Hardware ray tracing support, low graphics settings, targeting 60 FPS at 1080p

Recommended Requirements

Operating System: 64-bit Windows 10
Processor: Intel Core i7-12700K @ 3.6 GHz or AMD Ryzen 7 7700 @ 3.8 GHz
Memory: 32 GB RAM
Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080Ti 12 GB or AMD Radeon RX 7700XT 12 GB
Storage: 120 GB SSD (mandatory)
Extra: High graphics settings, targeting 60 FPS at 1440p

Ultra Requirements

Operating System: 64-bit Windows 10
Processor: Intel Core i7-13900K @ 3.0 GHz or AMD Ryzen 7 7900X @ 4.7 GHz
Memory: 32 GB RAM
Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 16 GB or AMD Radeon RX 7900XT 20 GB
Storage: 120 GB SSD (mandatory)
Extra: Ultra graphics settings, targeting 60 FPS at 4K

Requirements for Full Performance with Ray Tracing

Level	Processor	Memory	Graphics Card	Resolution	Extra
Minimum	i7-10700K or Ryzen 5 3600	16 GB RAM	RTX 4070 12 GB	1080p	DLSS 3, Low graphics settings
Recommended	i7-12700K or Ryzen 7 7700	32 GB RAM	RTX 4080 16 GB	1440p	DLSS 3, High graphics settings
Ultra	i7-13900K or Ryzen 7 7900X	32 GB RAM	RTX 4090 24 GB	4K	DLSS 3, Ultra graphics settings

It seems the development team has never heard of optimization. These requirements are at an unacceptable level.

Giant Games Coming in December: Indiana Jones, Marvel...

Skyline — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 13:27:18 GMT

December 2024 games Lorelei and the Laser Eyes Warhammer 40000: Darktide

Giant Games Coming in December: Indiana Jones, Marvel...

Skyline

• December 2, 2024

Games Coming in December 2024

And we’ve reached the end of 2024. Another year, good or bad, has come to an end. In the last month of the year, we bring you our list of games coming out this year for the final time!

Lorelei and the Laser Eyes (December 3) | PS5, PS4

Lorelei and the Laser Eyes, an abstract and mysterious adventure game, is the kind that will catch the attention of puzzle lovers.

Warhammer 40,000: Darktide (December 3) | PS5

Darktide is an FPS set in the chaotic Warhammer universe and stands out with its cooperative gameplay.

The Thaumaturge (December 4) | PS5, Xbox Series X|S

With its intriguing story and turn-based combat system, The Thaumaturge is an ideal choice for RPG lovers.

Infinity Nikki (December 5) | PC, PS5, iOS, Android

Infinity Nikki, which combines open-world exploration with fashion design, offers a unique experience.

Delta Force (December 5) | PC

The classic FPS series Delta Force, returning after a long hiatus, will stir up nostalgia winds.

RollerCoaster Tycoon Classic (December 5) | Switch

This classic game offers Nintendo Switch users a fun and challenging park management experience.

Marvel Rivals (December 6) | PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

This game, filled with heroes and villains from the Marvel universe, stands out with its competitive multiplayer gameplay.

Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun – Aiko’s Choice (December 6) | PS5, Xbox Series X|S

This strategy game, previously released on PC, is now opening its doors to console players.

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle (December 9) | PC, Xbox Series X|S

This adventure and puzzle-solving game will excite Indiana Jones fans.

Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered (December 10) | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch

The return of classic games with updated graphics will be unforgettable for nostalgia lovers.

Resident Evil 2 (December 10) | Mac, iOS

This horror classic is coming to new platforms, appealing to a wider audience.

Besiege (December 12) | PS5, PS4, Switch

The physics-based strategy game Besiege will bring the joy of destruction and construction to consoles as well.

The Spirit of the Samurai (December 12) | PC

This story-driven samurai adventure promises an in-depth narrative and combat experience.

Fairy Tail 2 (December 12) | PC, PS5, PS4, Switch

Fairy Tail 2, appealing to fans of the popular anime series, continues the adventure with its sequel.

Chernobylite: Complete Edition (December 13) | Switch

This sci-fi and survival game will be experienced on a new platform as it comes to the Switch.

Alien: Rogue Incursion (December 19) | PC, PS5 - PlayStation VR 2

Alien: Rogue Incursion, adding a new dimension to space horror games on the VR platform, offers a heart-pounding experience.

What game are you most excited to see released this month? Personally, I’m waiting for Indiana Jones. I look forward to hearing your thoughts in the comments.

The Deleted Chapter of Crysis 3: Misty Mountains

EdgeTypE — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 16:38:00 GMT

crysis crysis 3 misty mountains crysis 3 storyboard

The Deleted Chapter of Crysis 3: Misty Mountains

EdgeTypE

• December 1, 2024

Crysis 3 Misty Mountains Chapter

Games undergo many changes during their development. Sometimes because they realize what they planned isn’t possible, sometimes because they don’t have time to create what they dreamed of. Whatever the reason, Crysis 3 has a deleted chapter: Misty Mountains.

Important scenes from this chapter were transferred to other chapters when it was cancelled. Some scenes in Safeties Off and Red Star Rising chapters were originally planned for the Misty Mountains chapter. Let’s begin.

Spoiler Warning

This article contains many spoilers for Crysis 3. If you're planning to play the game, we don't recommend reading.

Hivemind Scene (C3MistyMountainsHivemind_40534656)

After going to the nanosuit lab with Psycho and deactivating the nanites in Prophet’s suit, the chapter begins. Claire tells Prophet that he could turn into a Ceph.

The Cephs likely cause the surface to collapse by destroying their underground bases. The already devastated Earth becomes even worse with these collapses. The Misty Mountains, which give the chapter its name, likely refer to the mountain-like buildings that remain around the collapsed grounds. If you look at the concept design for the chapter, you’ll understand what I mean.

As you progress a bit in the chapter, you encounter a Ceph structure. When Prophet examines the structure, the surrounding Cephs start to think he is the Alpha Ceph.

Normally, this part happens in the Red Star Rising chapter. When the Cephs think Prophet is the Alpha Ceph, Prophet starts to control them.

However, this situation doesn’t last long. The Alpha Ceph regains control, and the Cephs start attacking Prophet.

Misty Mountains Final Scene (C3MistyMountainsEnd_40534656)

At the end of the Misty Mountains chapter, Cephs start emerging from underground as a result of what they did at the beginning of the chapter.

The Earth’s crust breaks, and Cephs pour out everywhere. Then we see a fire from the sky hitting the Earth. This is likely an orbital strike from the Archangel satellite.

Then our camera rises to space, and it looks like a signal is being broadcast from a place we think is Lingshan. A line we don’t understand passes over the Earth.

BONUS: Claire Sacrifices Herself (C3RiverBetrayal_40534656)

We see something similar to a portal in the sky closing. Although this looks like the wormhole effect in the game, it’s 99% an attack by Archangel with low charge.

The camera moves to the control tower where Claire, Rasch, Prophet, and Psycho are trying to stop Archangel.

For some unknown reason, Psycho and Claire start arguing. At this moment, Rasch makes his famous speech.

I needed you. I needed all of you to escape my CELL prison. My children were mindless while I slept. Shutting down Archangel was the last thing I needed from you. And for that, I must thank you. The third and final stage.

The Alpha Ceph appears behind Rasch. Whatever move the Alpha Ceph makes, Rasch does the same. The Alpha Ceph design here is a bit different. It has arms and such. Rasch breaks the ground and throws rocks at Claire. Prophet is thrown to the ground during this.

Claire pushes Psycho out of the room to protect him and locks the room on herself. Then she blows up the room with an explosive. As a result of this explosion, Rasch and Claire die. Claire’s death happens here in this way. In front of Psycho’s eyes, she turns to ashes in an instant. She dies in a much more dramatic way than in the game’s version.

Then Prophet tries to calm down Psycho, who is having a nervous breakdown. The footage ends here. The famous scene at the opening of the Only Human chapter happens.

We were all human, Psycho. And we all fought. Me, you, Nomad, Jester, all of us. We fought. Not the goddamned nanosuits!

That’s all I could find for now. Until Crysis 4 comes out, I’ll continue to look into every detail of the previous games. Soon, I’ll prepare an article compiling what I’ve found about Crysis 4. Goodbye, stay away from the hivemind!

You can also click here for the alternative ending of Crysis 3.

Note: All image rights belong to Crytek.

The Witcher 4 Development Has Begun!

Skyline — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 17:04:32 GMT

the witcher 4 witcher 4 the witcher

The Witcher 4 Development Has Begun!

Skyline

• November 26, 2024

CD Projekt Red Kicks Off Development of New Witcher Game Project Polaris

CD Projekt Red has made an exciting move that will thrill fans. The company has officially entered the full-time development phase for Project Polaris (The Witcher 4), one of their most important game franchises.

Concept Development Completed

According to the company’s latest announcement, the concept development phase for Project Polaris has been successfully completed. The production stage has now begun. Currently, a team of 400 people is working on the game. We don’t know the release date for The Witcher 4 yet, but given that development has just started, it looks like we’ll be waiting quite a few years. If we’re lucky, it might be one of the launch titles for the PlayStation 6.

Striking Success from Cyberpunk 2077

Meanwhile, the sales figures for CD Projekt Red’s recent hit Cyberpunk 2077 are noteworthy. The game has now reached over 30 million copies sold. Additionally, the Phantom Liberty expansion has surpassed the 8 million sales mark. The company is also working on a new Cyberpunk game codenamed Cyberpunk: Orion, with a team of 64 people.

Cyberpunk’s Success Continues: New Series

CD Projekt Red has also announced that they are working on a new Cyberpunk animation.

CD Projekt Red continues to inform both shareholders and gamers by periodically releasing information about their projects. If only other companies would share information as regularly.

New Era for Xbox Cloud: Play Your Own Games with xCloud

Skyline — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:55:05 GMT

news xcloud xbox cloud

New Era for Xbox Cloud: Play Your Own Games with xCloud

Skyline

• November 20, 2024

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Members Can Now Play Their Owned Games via xCloud

Microsoft’s cloud gaming platform, xCloud, has started allowing Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members to play games they already own. This feature will be available in 28 countries where xCloud is currently operational.

xCloud can essentially be thought of as the Xbox console version of GeForce Now. You play games as if you’re streaming from another Xbox console. With this new feature, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can now play their owned games through xCloud.

50 Games Supported in Initial Rollout

xCloud will initially support 50 games. This lineup includes titles like Cyberpunk 2077, The Witcher 3, Assassin’s Creed Mirage, and some games from the Final Fantasy series. Microsoft has announced that they will continue to expand the game library.

The initial supported games include:

Animal Well
Assassin’s Creed Mirage
Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
Balatro
Baldur’s Gate 3
Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II (2022)
The Casting of Frank Stone
Cyberpunk 2077
Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake
Dredge
Dying Light 2 Stay Human
Farming Simulator 25
Fear the Spotlight
Final Fantasy XIV Online
Final Fantasy
Final Fantasy II
Final Fantasy III
Final Fantasy IV
Final Fantasy V
Final Fantasy VI
Hades
Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions
High On Life
Hitman World of Assassination
Hogwarts Legacy
House Flipper 2
Kena: Bridge of Spirits
Lego Harry Potter Collection
Life is Strange: Double Exposure
Metro Exodus
Mortal Kombat 1
NBA 2K25
PGA Tour 2K23
Phasmophobia
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Rust Console Edition
7 Days to Die
Star Wars Outlaws
Stray
The Crew Motorfest
The Outlast Trials
The Plucky Squire
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Tom Clancy’s The Division 2
TopSpin 2K25
Undertale
Visions of Mana
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
WWE 2K24

The addition of owned game streaming represents an exciting development for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, offering more flexibility in how and where they can access their game libraries. Microsoft continues to innovate in the cloud gaming space, providing gamers with increasingly convenient gaming experiences.

STALKER 2 Reviews Are In! Optimization Challenges Emerge...

Skyline — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:55:05 GMT

stalker 2 stalker 2 review stalker 2 review scores

STALKER 2 Reviews Are In! Optimization Challenges Emerge...

Skyline

• November 20, 2024

After years of development and constant delays, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl has finally been released. But was it worth the wait? The gaming press has published their reviews, with many highlighting performance issues and bugs. The game was developed in Ukraine during the Russia-Ukraine War, which led to multiple postponements.

As of writing, STALKER 2’s MetaCritic score stands at 76 on PC and 80 on Xbox, while OpenCritic has it at 77. We’ll be preparing our own comprehensive review soon. For now, let’s take a look at the scores from various gaming publications:

STALKER 2 Review Scores

Hardcore Gamer: 5 / 5
Game Rant: 9 / 10
GamingBolt: 9 / 10
GameGrin: 9 / 10
SECTOR.sk: 9 / 10
IGN Spain: 9 / 10
Nexus Hub: 9 / 10
Gameliner: 4.5 / 5
Generación Xbox: 8.7 / 10
Spaziogames: 8.6 / 10
Tom’s Hardware Italia: 8.5 / 10
XboxEra: 8.4 / 10
PC Gamer: 83 / 100
Gamer Guides: 81 / 100
GameSpot: 8 / 10
Shacknews: 8 / 10
Daily Mirror: 4 / 5
Kakuchopurei: 80 / 100
IGN Deutschland: 8 / 10
Gamer.no: 8 / 10
One More Game: 8 / 10
GosuNoob: 8 / 10
Atarita: 79 / 100
Everyeye.it: 7.5 / 10
DualShockers: 7 / 10
Checkpoint Gaming: 7 / 10
AltChar: 70 / 100
Press Start: 6.5 / 10
GAMES.CH: 63%
TheGamer: 3 / 5
GamesRadar+: 3 / 5
Dexerto: 3 / 5
CGMagazine: 6 / 10
Stevivor: 5 / 10

Are you planning to play the game?

The Game Awards 2024 Nominees Announced! DLC Nominated for Game of the Year!

Skyline — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 17:19:39 GMT

tga the game awards game of the year

The Game Awards 2024 Nominees Announced! DLC Nominated for Game of the Year!

Skyline

• November 18, 2024

The Game Awards 2024 Nominees Announced!

The Game Awards 2024 will be held on December 12th to determine the winners of this year’s most prestigious video game awards. The nominees represent the standout titles that made a significant impact in the gaming world this year. Here are the categories and nominees:

Game of the Year:
- ASTRO BOT
- Balatro
- Black Myth: Waking
- Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree
- Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
- Metaphor: ReFantazio

We believe it’s absurd for a DLC to be nominated for Game of the Year. There’s already a category for DLCs and updates, so a DLC being nominated is simply ridiculous.

Best Game Direction:
- ASTRO BOT
- Balatro
- Black Myth: Waking
- Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree
- Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
- Metaphor: ReFantazio
Best Action Game:
- Black Myth: Wukong
- Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
- Helldivers 2
- Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2
- Stellar Blade
Best Action/Adventure Game:
- Astro Bot
- Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
- Silent Hill 2
- Star Wars Outlaws
- Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
Best RPG:
- Dragon’s Dogma 2
- Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree
- Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
- Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
- Metaphor: ReFantazio
Most Anticipated Game:
- Death Stranding 2: On The Beach
- Ghost of Yotei
- Grand Theft Auto VI
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
- Monster Hunter Wilds
Best Independent Game:
- Animal Well
- Balatro
- Lorelei and the Laser Eyes
- Neva
- UFO 50
Best Multiplayer:
- Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
- Helldivers 2
- Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2
- Super Mario Party Jamboree
- Tekken 8
Best Adaptation:
- Arcane
- Fallout
- Knuckles
- Like a Dragon: Yakuza
- Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft
Best Score & Music:
- ASTRO BOT
- Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
- Metaphor: ReFantazio
- Silent Hill 2
- Stellar Blade
Best Performance:
- Briana White
- Hannah Telle
- Humberly Gonzalez
- Like Roberts
- Melina Juergens
Best Mobile Game:
- AFK Journey
- Balatro
- Withering Waves
- Zenless Zone Zero
- Pokemon TCGP
Best Art Direction:
- ASTRO BOT
- Black Myth: Waking
- Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree
- Metaphor: ReFantazio
- Neva
Best Ongoing Game:
- Destiny 2
- Diablo IV
- Final Fantasy XIV
- Fortnite
- Helldivers 2

Which category do you think will have the most exciting winner? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

Half-Life 2 Gets Major Update for 20th Anniversary! Play for Free!

Skyline — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 07:31:20 GMT

half life half life 2 half life 2 new update

Half-Life 2 Gets Major Update for 20th Anniversary! Play for Free!

Skyline

• November 16, 2024

Half-Life 2 Celebrates 20th Anniversary with Major Update and Free Access!

The legendary game Half-Life 2 is celebrating its 20th anniversary! Valve is marking this milestone by making the game temporarily free and releasing a comprehensive update. Add the game to your Steam library before November 18th at 10:00 AM to keep it forever.

What’s in the Update?

Valve has modernized the Half-Life 2 experience with this update, adding new content:

Episode One and Episode Two Support: You can now play both Episode One and Episode Two expansion packs alongside the base game. Access these contents from the main menu and automatically progress to the next chapter upon completion.
Developer Commentary: For the first time, Half-Life 2 includes developer commentary, featuring 3.5 hours of detailed insights into the game’s development process.
Steam Workshop Integration: Access player-created content through the Extras menu, customize your experience with mods and user-made campaigns.
Graphics and Technical Improvements: Visual bugs have been fixed, new graphics settings added, and lighting improved. You can now enjoy the game with better visuals on high-resolution displays.

Documentary and Special Materials

Valve has prepared a documentary sharing fascinating details about Half-Life 2’s development process. The film covers the challenges of game development, the early version leak, and Valve’s journey in building Steam. Additionally, historical presentations and rare developer materials that shed light on gaming history have been unveiled.

Raising the Bar Returns

The Raising the Bar book, which details the creation of the Half-Life series and sold out in the early 2000s, will be republished in 2025 with an expanded second edition. The book will include never-before-seen concept art for Episode One and Episode Two, as well as canceled ideas for Episode Three.

Don’t Miss Out!

If you haven’t tried Half-Life 2 yet, don’t miss this opportunity. You can get the game for free on Steam until November 18th.

Free Age of Empires II: DE DLC Opportunity

Skyline — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 20:38:29 GMT

age of empires 2 aoe 2 age of empires 2 definitive edition

Free Age of Empires II: DE DLC Opportunity

Skyline

• November 14, 2024

Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition Celebrates Its 5th Anniversary!

Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition is celebrating its 5th anniversary and offering special gifts to players during this momentous occasion. Since its release, both the content and player community have continued to expand. Over these five years, the game has introduced numerous innovations:

7 DLCs and 3 animated icon packs
10 new civilizations
17 civilizations in the “Return of Rome” DLC
3 civilizations in the “Chronicles: Battle for Greece” DLC
16 campaigns, 19 special scenarios (in “Victors & Vanquished”)
New game modes: Empire Wars, Battle Royale, and more

Additionally, the game has received nearly 100 updates to date. These updates have fixed bugs, improved gameplay experience, and added new features.

In honor of this special anniversary, new purchasers of Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition will receive Lords of the West, Dawn of the Dukes, and Dynasties of India DLCs for free starting today. With the addition of these packages, new players will get a comprehensive experience alongside the base game.

Special Offer for Existing Players

Existing players who own the game on Steam, Microsoft Store, or Xbox haven’t been forgotten. They will automatically receive one of the three DLCs they don’t already own, as a special thank-you gift for this anniversary celebration.

Half-Life 2 RTX is Coming!

EdgeTypE — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 19:06:45 GMT

half-life half-life 2 rtx

Half-Life 2 RTX is Coming!

EdgeTypE

• November 14, 2024

The graphics of Half-Life 2 are being renewed with Nvidia’s RTX Remix technology. It will be released for free for the owners of the original game, just like the recently released Portal RTX. Although we don’t know the release date yet, since they have opened the Steam page, we think we will receive information about the release date soon.

The RTX Remix version will look like this. The system requirements have not been announced yet, but as in the case of Portal RTX, we can estimate that it will be a game that even some RTX graphics cards cannot run. Portal RTX required a minimum RTX 3060 graphics card. And Portal is a relatively simple game. The environmental details and atmosphere of Half-Life 2 are incomparable. Therefore, the system requirements for Half-Life 2 RTX may be much higher.

We will continue to share more information about the game as it becomes available.

STALKER 2's System Requirements Revealed

EdgeTypE — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 18:46:39 GMT

stalker 2 stalker 2 heart of chornobly stalker 2 system requirements

STALKER 2's System Requirements Revealed

EdgeTypE

• November 12, 2024

The long-awaited cinematic FPS game S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl has revealed its system requirements.

GRAPHIC SETTING	LOW	MEDIUM	HIGH (Recommended)	EPIC
RESOLUTION	1080p	1080p	1440p	2160p
TARGET FPS	30 FPS	60 FPS	60 FPS	60+ FPS
CPU	Intel Core i7-7700K AMD Ryzen 5 1600X	Intel Core i7-9700K AMD Ryzen 7 3700X	Intel Core i7-11700 AMD Ryzen 7 5800X	Intel Core i7-13700KF AMD Ryzen 7 7700X
GPU	Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 6GB AMD Radeon RX 580 8 GB Intel Arc A750	Nvidia GeForce RTX 2070 Super / RTX 4060 AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT	Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 Ti / RTX 4070 AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT	Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 AMD Radeon RX 7900 XT
RAM	16GB Dual Channel	16GB Dual Channel	32GB Dual Channel	32GB Dual Channel
STORAGE	SSD - 160 GB	SSD - 160 GB	SSD - 160 GB	SSD - 160 GB

Additionally, the game will support FSR and DLSS. Set to release on November 20th, the game will be available on Game Pass from day one. Have you checked the system requirements for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Death Stranding Now Available on Xbox!

Skyline — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 12:14:15 GMT

playstation death stranding death stranding xbox

Death Stranding Now Available on Xbox!

Skyline

• November 7, 2024

Death Stranding Now on Xbox Series X|S

Death Stranding, once exclusive to PlayStation, is now available for Xbox Series X|S users. The Director’s Cut version of the game is listed at 39.99 USD on Xbox, but with a special launch discount, it’s available for 19.99 USD.

While the specifics of Death Stranding’s exclusivity deal with PlayStation are not fully disclosed, the game was previously available on PC Game Pass for a limited time. With Death Stranding’s arrival on Xbox consoles, it’s anticipated that its sequel, Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, currently in development, might also make its way to PC and Xbox platforms.Death Stranding was initially released exclusively for PlayStation 4 on November 8, 2019, followed by a PC release. The Director’s Cut version, now available to Xbox users, was released on September 23, 2021, offering an enhanced gaming experience.

Have you played Death Stranding? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Major Games Releasing in November: STALKER 2, Metro...

Skyline — Sat, 02 Nov 2024 10:09:14 GMT

new games upcoming games november releases

Major Games Releasing in November: STALKER 2, Metro...

Skyline

• November 2, 2024

Games Releasing in November 2024

As we approach the end of 2024, we’ve compiled some notable games awaiting gamers in November. Here are the games releasing this month:

Game List:

Metal Slug Tactics | November 5 | PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch:

The Metal Slug series returns as a turn-based tactical game. Featuring the iconic Neo Geo pixel art and familiar Metal Slug spirit, the game stands out with its roguelike elements and strategic battles.

TMNT: Splintered Fate | November 6 | PC:

Set in the Ninja Turtles universe, this action-packed game begins with Master Splinter’s mysterious disappearance. Players will control Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo as they protect the city from dark forces.

Metro Awakening VR | November 7 | PSVR 2, Steam VR, Meta Quest:

This VR adaptation of the Metro series draws players into a deeper and darker atmosphere. Survival and action elements combine with the VR experience to bring tension to its peak.

Goat Simulator Remastered | November 7 | PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S:

The 2014 phenomenon Goat Simulator returns with new graphical updates. Offering a more realistic goat simulation experience, the game promises to be highly entertaining for chaos enthusiasts.

Farming Simulator 25 | November 12 | PS5, Xbox, PC:

Farming Simulator 25 arrives with new features for farming life enthusiasts, offering larger farming areas and detailed simulation options. Both single-player and multiplayer options are available.

Tetris Forever | November 12 | PS5, Switch, Xbox, PC:

Tetris…

LEGO Horizon Adventures | November 14 | PS5, Switch, PC:

An open-world adventure set in the LEGO universe. LEGO Horizon Adventures appeals to both children and adult players with its exploration-filled story and adventures.

Funko Fusion | November 15 | PS5, Switch, Xbox, PC:

Funko Fusion is an action-adventure game filled with Funko characters, bringing together numerous pop culture figures. This world full of cute characters promises plenty of fun and action.

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 | November 19 | Xbox, PC:

Famous for its realistic details for flight simulation enthusiasts, Microsoft Flight Simulator returns with its 2024 edition featuring enhanced graphics and improved weather systems.

STALKER 2: Heart of Chernobyl | November 20 | Xbox, PC:

The long-awaited STALKER 2 offers an atmospheric horror-action experience set in the Chernobyl zone. The game’s story-driven structure and challenging survival mechanics are particularly noteworthy.

Which of this month’s releases catches your interest the most? We look forward to your comments below.

Prime Gaming November Games Revealed: Mafia, Marvel...

Skyline — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 18:00:28 GMT

prime gaming amazon prime prime gaming free games

Prime Gaming November Games Revealed: Mafia, Marvel...

Skyline

• November 1, 2024

Amazon Prime Gaming November Games Announced

Amazon Prime Gaming has revealed its free games lineup for November. The list includes excellent titles such as Mafia: Definitive Edition and Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy. Let’s take a look at the complete lineup:

Prime Gaming November 2024 Games

Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy (Epic Games Store) | November 1: The fate of the universe is in your hands. Lead the Guardians team as Star-Lord and determine the future of the galaxy.
Mafia: Definitive Edition (GOG) | November 1: Step into the world of organized crime in 1930s Lost Heaven, IL. Face challenges and adventures as Tommy Angelo while rising through the ranks of the criminal underworld.
Dishonored — Definitive Edition (GOG) | November 7: The complete collection featuring the Dishonored base game and all DLCs. Deliver your own brand of justice in this world of stealth and action.
Duck Paradox (GOG) | November 7: Embark on an interdimensional journey as Dr. Paraducks to find his lost cute duck using a time machine.
Close To The Sun (GOG) | November 7: Explore the mysterious ship Helios in the 19th century’s scientific enlightenment era, shaped by Nikola Tesla’s mental and inventive influences.
Disney•Pixar Cars (Amazon Games App) | November 7: Win races as Lightning McQueen on various tracks.
Bang Bang Racing (Amazon Games App) | November 7: Find shortcuts to overtake competitors, repair your car, and get caught up in racing excitement.
Snakebird Complete (Epic Games Store) | November 7: Experience puzzle-solving fun with this package containing both Snakebird and Snakebird Primer.
Ms. Holmes: The Case of the Dancing Men Collector’s Edition (Amazon Games App) | November 14: Solve the mystery behind cryptic letters filled with dancing figures.
Chasm: The Rift (GOG) | November 14: This FPS from 1997 holds the distinction of being Eastern Europe’s first boomer shooter.
House of Golf 2 (Epic Games Store) | November 14: Offers a new experience full of adventures and challenges in the world of golf.
Tomb Raider: Anniversary (GOG) | November 14: Relive Lara Croft’s original adventure.
Blade of Darkness (GOG) | November 14: Eliminate threats looming over the Central Kingdoms.
Max: The Curse of Brotherhood (Amazon Games App) | November 21: Embark on adventures using your magic marker as Max to save your brother.
Overcooked: Gourmet Edition (GOG) | November 21: Work as a team to prepare and serve customer orders.
Gloomy Tales: One-Way Ticket Collector’s Edition (Legacy Games) | November 21: Witness Millie’s disappearance through a portal while taking photos in a historic mansion.
Super Meat Boy (Epic Games Store) | November 21: Embark on challenging platforming adventures to rescue your bandage-made girlfriend from an evil fetus.
Moonscars (GOG) | November 21: Fight to uncover the mysteries of your existence as Grey Irma.
RIOT — Civil Unrest (GOG) | November 21: Manage social unrest resulting from economic crisis and inequalities.
Elite Dangerous (Epic Games Store) | November 27: Control your own starship in the Milky Way and face the dangers of space.
Sir Whoopass — Immortal Death (GOG) | November 27: Experience fourth-wall-breaking humor and challenging RPG jokes in this fun game.
Jurassic World Evolution (Epic Games Store) | November 27: Manage the wonderful, majestic, and dangerous world of dinosaurs.
Mystery Case Files: The Dalimar Legacy Collector’s Edition (Amazon Games App) | November 27: Solve a mystery through the eyes of your greatest rivals by possessing their bodies.
Shogun Showdown (GOG) | November 27: Experience a roguelike adventure using strategic combat and support systems to fight against the Shogun.

Which of these games interests you the most? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Game Developed Over 8 Years Shuts Down in Just 9 Days!

Skyline — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 16:22:37 GMT

concord playstation live service game

Game Developed Over 8 Years Shuts Down in Just 9 Days!

Skyline

• September 3, 2024

Concord Servers Shutting Down: A Major Disappointment

PlayStation exclusive Concord, not even 10 days after its launch, is preparing to shut down its servers on September 6, 2024, following its disastrous performance. The game, which was launched with high hopes, failed to generate the expected interest among players.

8 Years to Make, 9 Days to Shut Down

Concord was released simultaneously for PlayStation 5 and PC on August 23, 2024, after 8 years of development. However, the game quickly became the target of heavy criticism and disappointed with its sales figures. The game, which reportedly reached only 25,000 sales in total, is now facing shutdown just days after its release.

Servers Shutting Down, Refunds Begin

It has been announced that all players who purchased the game will receive refunds. Purchases made through the PlayStation Store will be refunded directly. A similar refund process will be implemented for purchases made through digital stores like Steam and Epic Games Store.

Major Disappointment for Players

The rapid demise of Concord might serve as a warning for major companies. Almost all large companies are focused on creating live service games to maximize profits. Every game that fails on this path marks an important step for the future of the gaming industry. Concord joins the live service game graveyard alongside titles like Suicide Squad and Marvel’s Avengers. Players who purchased the game will no longer have access once the servers shut down.

Update: October 29, 2024

Sony has decided to shut down Firewalk Studios, the developer behind the game.

Dragon Age: The Veilguard Reviews Published

Skyline — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 15:27:00 GMT

dragon age dragon age the veilguard dragon age: the veilguard

Dragon Age: The Veilguard Reviews Published

Skyline

• October 28, 2024

Review scores for Dragon Age: The Veilguard, BioWare’s long-awaited RPG, have been published. Currently, the game has a score of 84 on MetaCritic and OpenCritic. Personally, I didn’t expect such high ratings based on the latest previews, but it seems we—or you—may be in for a solid game.

Here’s a list of scores from various media outlets. Unfortunately, we didn’t receive a review code, so we don’t have our own review to share.

Dragon Age The Veilguard Review Scores

Eurogamer: 5/5
Game Rant: 10/10
Checkpoint Gaming: 10/10
CGMagazine: 10/10
Press Start: 10/10
Cinelinx: 5/5
XboxEra: 10/10
But Why Tho?: 10/10
PlayStation Universe: 9.5/10
TechRaptor: 9.5/10
Quest Daily: 9.5/10
Gamer Guides: 92/100
IGN: 9/10
GamesRadar+: 4.5/5
Metro GameCentral: 9/10
COGconnected: 90/100
Wccftech: 9/10
DualShockers: 8.5/10
GamingTrend: 85/100
Stevivor: 8.5/10
TheGamer: 4/5
Dexerto: 4/5
Push Square: 8/10
Worth Playing: 8/10
Digitec Magazine: 4/5
Eurogamer.pt: 4/5
PC Gamer: 79/100
Digital Trends: 3.5/5
Shacknews: 7/10
GRYOnline.pl: 7/10
SECTOR.sk: 7/10
CBR: 7/10
VGC: 3/5
Guardian: 3/5
Gamepressure: 6/10

Call of Duty Black Ops 6 | Review

EdgeTypE — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Call of Duty Black Ops 6 Call of Duty Black Ops 6 Review Call of Duty Black Ops 6 review

Call of Duty Black Ops 6 | Review

EdgeTypE

• October 28, 2024

The game billed as having the longest development time in the Call of Duty series, Call of Duty Black Ops 6, has been released, and I’ve played it. So, is it any good? Let’s review it together.

Gaming-DB

Call of Duty Black Ops 6

Technical issues aside, this is quite a good game. I've never played a game with such superior movement and gunplay.

pros

cons

Movement system and gunplay

Gameplay variety

Silent protagonist

edious padding content

Technical issues

Call of Duty Black Ops 6, touted as the CoD title with the longest development time, has finally been released. I’ve played it - but is it any good? Let’s dive in.

Gameplay

Right off the bat, even basic movement in the game is enjoyable. The new “Omni-movement” system they’ve implemented is fantastic. While traditionally you could only run forward, this system now allows you to run in all directions - forward, backward, left, and right - and jump with complete freedom. It’s genuinely satisfying to leap around Max Payne-style while taking down enemies.

The gunplay is equally impressive - possibly the best I’ve experienced in any game. From the animations to recoil patterns and sound design, everything has been crafted meticulously. This aspect alone makes me consider replaying the game, which is unusual for me as I rarely replay games. However, this would depend on whether they fix the major issue I’ll discuss later.

Black Ops 6 transports you to 1991, during the Gulf War. While attempting to capture a target, your unit is ambushed by an organization called Pantheon. After escaping, you report the Pantheon threat to your superiors, but they dismiss your concerns. This leads you to establish your own headquarters and conduct operations against Pantheon, while trying to uncover their true nature and objectives throughout the game.

After a few well-crafted, cinematic missions, the game thrust me into an open world. My heart sank, thinking “Oh no!” Fortunately, this only lasted for one chapter - though it was poorly designed, the game returned to its linear structure afterward.

The open-world section’s design falls flat because it barely functions properly. The game presents three main objectives - essentially three missile launch sites scattered across the map that need to be destroyed. You drive around with your team, randomly encountering enemies who attack you.

The game seems to want you to engage in these encounters, but there’s really no need. You can simply approach the missile sites, and if you’re lucky enough to find a rocket launcher, you can take them out from a distance. This was definitely the most tedious mission in the game. However, the game doesn’t force you to engage with the superfluous side content, allowing you to quickly complete this section and escape the open world.

Starting Black Ops 6, I didn’t expect such diverse gameplay. The variety comes through both equipment and mission design, though not all variety is good. The game begins by throwing you into the action, having you fight your way forward - so far, so good.

Then it shifts to a low-tempo stealth mission reminiscent of Hitman, where you need to avoid detection. You can tolerate this for one mission, but then it throws you into an espionage mission. The first half of this mission consists purely of “go here, go there” objectives. There’s a door that requires a senator’s retinal scan. To get past it, you need a photo of the senator. You pose as a journalist, and after a series of events, you pretend to take a photo while actually scanning his retina. It feels like completing a quest in an RPG, complete with dialogue choices - though these choices don’t affect anything.

After obtaining the retinal scan, you infiltrate a secret facility. There’s a brief action sequence where the game gives you the choice between stealth and aggressive approaches. Since I came for an action game, I chose the guns-blazing approach.

Padding Attempts

If you’re expecting non-stop action in every chapter, Black Ops 6 isn’t for you. I was expecting that too, but it wasn’t the case. Some chapters are obviously designed to pad the game’s length. Call of Duty has long been criticized for short gameplay duration. While this game takes 7-8 hours to complete instead of 4-5, if you remove the unnecessary padding, you’re still left with a 4-5 hour game.

For instance, during an operation in what appears to be an old research facility, you get trapped on one floor. To use the elevator, the game tasks you with finding 4 keys. You’re given a map showing 4 corridors, each with a key at the end. As you progress, you’re swarmed by zombies - yes, zombies - and have to defeat a boss - yes, a boss - who drops a key. You repeat this four times.

Actually, this section wasn’t bad, but it feels out of place in an action game. In one of these four sections, enemies only move when you’re not looking at them, freezing like statues when observed. You also have a grappling hook that lets you swing around like Spider-Man. While interesting in concept, not all attempts at padding are this creative.

For example, enemies drop money when killed. What is this, GTA NPCs? You can collect money throughout levels to upgrade your equipment at your headquarters. Features like:

Collect money to increase reload speed by 15%
Collect money to automatically pick up armor from the ground

There’s even an option to buy weapon skins for multiplayer mode with the money you collect in the campaign. It feels like the campaign was included just as an afterthought.

I don’t oppose unlocking multiplayer content by completing campaign missions. But having to collect money in the campaign to buy weapon skins feels forced. There are additional puzzle-like activities for collecting money, including nonsensical safe-cracking sequences. You’re in the middle of combat, and the game expects you to stop everything to tune a radio, which somehow gives you a safe combination. You then go open the safe for money. These elements completely break the game’s atmosphere.

Why is there a safe there? Why does the radio give us the combination when we tune it? Is this radio broadcasting the combination 24/7? Such elements undermine the game’s military realism.

Another atmosphere-breaking element is the silent protagonist. I don’t know about you, but I hate silent protagonists. While it might be understandable in RPGs, in an FPS action game like this, it disconnects me from the experience. I could barely tolerate it in Crysis 2, where Alcatraz couldn’t speak due to damaged vocal cords. Here, other characters act as if we’re speaking.

My elevator crashes to the ground. They call from above, “Case, are you okay? Case, say something.” I can’t speak, what am I supposed to say? This really irritates me. The justification is “so the player can put themselves in the character’s shoes.” But I already put myself in my own shoes in real life - let me experience being someone else in the game. Throughout the game, it’s unclear if our character even exists in the story. There’s talk of a CIA mole, speculation about who it might be, but we - the character we control - don’t exist in the narrative.

There’s also the issue of non-cinematic conversation sequences in games with silent protagonists. Where other characters talk while you retain control of your character. Some players might enjoy this, but I don’t. I can’t maintain seriousness - while characters are having serious conversations, I find myself jumping around and running back and forth. I’d prefer these scenes as proper cinematics. In these sequences, the game loses all its cinematic impact.

The reason for this is obvious - cutscenes would cost more to produce. They’d need to put in more effort, so they’ve tried to create the longest possible game with minimal cost. For some reason, the game is filled with puzzles - but they’re the most pointless puzzles you could imagine. Unnecessary things added just to pad the game’s length by a few minutes. For instance, you’re given a number sequence with letter equivalents below - you just copy the letters. What is this testing, my ability to see? There are also lockpicking sequences where you just turn your mouse - no mini-game, no skill involved. Just turning the mouse to add 5-10 seconds to the game.

The game could have been much better without these padding elements. The core mechanics are well-crafted. I even caught myself thinking “I wish Crysis 4 was this polished.” But just as the game approaches perfection, something comes along to annoy you. Like bullet-sponge enemies with health bars. I don’t enjoy bullet-sponge enemies in FPS games - I prefer when enemies go down in 1-2 shots. Otherwise, it becomes obviously tedious. And this game constantly throws bullet-sponge enemies at you, requiring multiple magazines to take down. It’s boring. Similarly with shield-bearing enemies who charge at you like Blitz from R6. You need to get a sniper and land 2-3 shots on their barely visible heads. And even headshots aren’t one-hit kills. If you’re going to have shield enemies, at least let exposed areas be one-shot kills. When waves of enemies are rushing you, encountering a shield or armored enemy kills the momentum. My advice would be to use your equipment against these enemies.

Equipment

You have quite diverse equipment options. Remote-controlled kamikaze cars, throwable explosive knives - using these items is genuinely fun. Pressing ‘3’ brings up an extensive equipment menu where you can quickly select what you need. Weapons are as varied as your equipment. Each weapon has multiple variants - standard, suppressed, scoped, laser-equipped, etc. With an already wide selection of weapons, this additional variety makes gunplay even more enjoyable. As mentioned earlier, movement and shooting in this game are perfect. The impact feedback is really good too, except for armored enemies. During crowded action scenes, music similar to Doom’s soundtrack plays, getting you into the perfect mood.

You can catch thrown grenades just before they explode and throw them back at enemies, or use nearby enemies as human shields. These mechanics feel really satisfying. I wish all games had the human shield mechanic - it’s extremely fun. You can even use it in multiplayer mode, it’s not just for the campaign.

Speaking of multiplayer, I want to touch on that briefly. I usually don’t play multiplayer modes alone - only with friends when we gather for Counter-Strike or Rainbow Six. But this one hooked me. It’s genuinely fun. I enjoy high-tempo, fast-paced games, which is why I used to play a lot of Titanfall 2 multiplayer. The pace never drops, there’s constant action. When this tempo combines with the new movement system, it creates a very entertaining game.

There’s not much more to say about what the game does well. When it delivers action, it’s thoroughly enjoyable. I actually liked most of the non-action moments too, though it’s clear this isn’t what Call of Duty players expect.

Graphics

I’d like to praise the game’s graphics, but I could only play a small portion with proper visual quality. Due to technical issues, I had to play through xCloud, where image quality was limited. However, the graphics are quite good, especially during cinematics where it feels like watching a movie.

Story

Perhaps because I have no previous experience with the Black Ops series, the story felt very jumbled. There’s this secret organization that nobody knows about, they’ve made a secret weapon. Where did they make this weapon? We need to stop it immediately, who’s using this weapon? Let’s stop them, and suddenly the game’s over. There doesn’t seem to be a proper plot structure.

The characters are similar - they don’t annoy you, but they’re not memorable either. Just generic characters.

Technical Issues

Now for the crucial part: Technical issues. Normally, you start a game, play it, and exit. That’s the natural flow. You don’t stay in the game forever. You spend some time with it and return later, expecting to continue where you left off. But that’s not how Black Ops 6 works. The save system is broken. The game requires constant internet connection as save files are stored online. I play the game, my save file uploads to their servers. Later, when I try to play again, the game can’t download the save file from its servers.

This is the most basic thing you’d expect from a game - saving. If even saving doesn’t work in this game, what were all these studios doing together? The PC Game Pass version especially has numerous technical issues. Some users are prompted to purchase the game, others can’t launch it. In my case, the game won’t save. As a result, I had to play through xCloud - Microsoft’s GeForce Now alternative. However, it’s not officially available in Turkey. I played connecting to Western European servers, which is why the quality of the footage I’m showing is low. Because that’s how I had to play it. Because the save system doesn’t work.

Even launching the game is torture. You start it up, it tries to synchronize data - which it can’t. Finally it launches. Makes you adjust settings. You do that, then “update available, please restart” appears. You do that, it asks for settings again. You do it again. Select Black Ops 6 from the menu, then campaign mode. The game restarts itself again. If it’s your first time, it does this even more times.

I don’t know whose idea it was to combine all Call of Duty games in one menu, but it’s a terrible system. Just launching the game requires extra effort.

Conclusion

Without these issues, this would be an 8/10 game, but unfortunately, it has major problems. I won’t lie - I enjoyed it even while playing through xCloud with pixel-perfect Anatolian image quality. I’m even thinking about playing other Call of Duty games from start to finish when they come to Game Pass. However, it definitely doesn’t deserve its price tag. I recommend playing it through Game Pass, which is what I did.

To summarize, Black Ops 6 is quite good when you look past the technical issues. I’ve never played a game with better movement system and gunplay. Missions and gameplay are quite diverse. The action dosage is below expectations. There are some unnecessary additions to pad the game length, but they don’t become too bothersome in the end.

Gaming-DB

Call of Duty Black Ops 6

Technical issues aside, this is quite a good game. I've never played a game with such superior movement and gunplay.

pros

cons

Movement system and gunplay

Gameplay variety

Silent protagonist

edious padding content

Technical issues

In fact, I can say this is the best Call of Duty game I’ve played.

You can watch this review in video format.

Marvel's Spider-Man 2 PC Version Officially Announced!

Skyline — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 21:23:46 GMT

spiderman spider-man marvels spider-man 2

Marvel's Spider-Man 2 PC Version Officially Announced!

Skyline

• October 18, 2024

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 PC Version Officially Announced!

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, which was initially released as a PlayStation 5 exclusive on October 20, 2023, will be available to PC gamers on January 30, 2025. The game will be sold through Steam and the Epic Games Store. While the Insomniac leak at the end of last year had already revealed that the game would be coming to PC, the official announcement was made at New York Comic Con.

The PC version is being developed by Nixxes Software in collaboration with Insomniac Games. About a year ago, there were leaks about the PC version of the game, and it had even been made unofficially playable. However, now Insomniac Games and PlayStation are officially bringing the game to PC in partnership with Nixxes Software.

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, featuring Peter Parker and Miles Morales facing off against iconic villains like Venom and Kraven, is a production enriched with story and side missions that is set to make a name for itself on the PC platform as well.

Players can already add Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 to their wishlists on Steam and the Epic Games Store. System requirements, pricing, and other technical details will be shared as we approach the release date.

Football Manager 25: NOT COMING OUT THIS YEAR

Skyline — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 14:58:14 GMT

football manager 25 fm 25 fm 25 delayed

Football Manager 25: NOT COMING OUT THIS YEAR

Skyline

• October 10, 2024

Football Manager 25’s Release Postponed to March 2025

The release date for Football Manager 25 has been delayed. According to an announcement by Sports Interactive, the game’s launch has been pushed back to March 2025. The studio stated that the decision to delay was made to maintain game quality and meet high standards. Though, by high standards, they probably mean a version that will further break the game.

Why Was the Delay Decision Made?

Sports Interactive expressed that they encountered more challenges than expected during the game’s development process, and despite the team’s intense efforts, progress wasn’t happening at the desired pace. In the latest development report shared in September, the studio had already indicated that additional time was needed to release the game in its best form. The company’s main goal is to complete FM25, which includes the series’ biggest technical and visual improvements, without rushing.

After discussions with SEGA and other license providers, it was concluded that postponing to March 2025 was the best decision to avoid risking the game’s quality standards.

Refunds

With the announcement of the new release date, some options are being offered to players who have pre-ordered. If there are users who want to cancel the game due to the delay, they will be able to get a refund.

New Reveal in January 2025

Sports Interactive plans to conduct the much-anticipated FM25 reveal at the end of January 2025. The studio acknowledges that the delayed release date has disappointed fans and expresses that they share the same disappointment. However, they stated that they need this additional time to deliver a game that will meet all players’ expectations in the long run.

Releasing FM in March is a foolish move. When will FM 26 come out? Will that also be in March of the following year? So many features had already been removed from the new game. Postponing the date you announced just two weeks ago, and making this postponement so long, shows what kind of poor planning and amateurishness is going on behind the scenes.

You can read more details about FM 25 in our article here.

RDR Coming to PC After 14 Years: Release Date Announced

Skyline — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 14:12:21 GMT

rdr rdr PC red Dead Redemption

RDR Coming to PC After 14 Years: Release Date Announced

Skyline

• October 8, 2024

Red Dead Redemption Finally Coming to PC

After a 14-year wait and numerous leaks, the classic Red Dead Redemption is finally coming to PC. According to an announcement by Rockstar Games, John Marston’s unforgettable adventure will be available to PC gamers on October 29th.

This new version includes the original game’s story as well as the zombie-themed DLC, Undead Nightmare. Developed in collaboration with Double Eleven studio, the PC version offers players the following features:

Support for 4K resolution and refresh rates up to 144Hz
Compatibility with Ultrawide (21:9) and Super Ultrawide (32:9) monitors
HDR10 support
Full integration of keyboard and mouse controls

Additionally, the game incorporates NVIDIA DLSS 3.7 and AMD FSR 3.0 upscaling technologies, as well as NVIDIA DLSS Frame Generation support. Players will also be able to customize graphic settings such as draw distance and shadow quality to their liking.

The PC version of Red Dead Redemption will be available for purchase from October 29th through the Rockstar Store, Steam, and Epic Games Store. Details about pre-orders are expected to be announced later this week.

It’s worth noting that Red Dead Redemption is already playable on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox platforms. PC gamers have been able to play the game for a while using Xbox 360 emulators.

Alien: Isolation 2 Announced!

Skyline — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 19:23:14 GMT

alien isolation alien isolation 2 alien isolation 2 release date

Alien: Isolation 2 Announced!

Skyline

• October 7, 2024

Alien: Isolation 2 Announced!

The long-awaited news for Alien: Isolation fans has finally arrived! As one of the most terrifying titles in the gaming world, Alien: Isolation celebrates its tenth anniversary with the announcement of a sequel in development.

Al Hope, the lead of the team behind the previous game, delivered the news fans have been waiting for in a special message for the game’s tenth anniversary: Alien: Isolation 2 is in development. In his statement, Hope said, “Today, I’m delighted to confirm, on behalf of the team, that a sequel to ALIEN: ISOLATION is in early development.”

The sequel to Alien: Isolation is still in the early stages of development. It will likely be a few years before we see anything concrete. You can find the full English translation of Al Hope’s statement below:

To our fans around the world: It’s hard to believe that it has been 10 years since we embarked on our journey with the release of ALIEN: ISOLATION.

When we started developing ALIEN: ISOLATION, we had one guiding principle: to create a truly authentic experience that went back to the roots of the ALIEN franchise - a new story capturing the atmosphere and terror of the original 1979 movie masterpiece.

It’s been nothing short of incredible to witness your passion for the game over the years and see it reach so many players around the world.

On the 10th anniversary, it seems only fitting to let you know that we have heard your distress calls loud and clear.

Today, I’m delighted to confirm, on behalf of the team, that a sequel to ALIEN: ISOLATION is in early development. We look forward to sharing more details with you when we’re ready.

Once again, thank you.

Until next time,

Al Hope, Creative Director – ALIEN: ISOLATION

Nobody Wants to Die Review

EdgeTypE — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Nobody Wants to Die Nobody Wants to Die Review nobody wants to die review

Nobody Wants to Die Review

EdgeTypE

• October 2, 2024

It’s the year 2329. Technology has advanced, and a way to transfer human minds into other bodies has been discovered. Anyone with enough money can inhabit any body they desire and achieve immortality. In this world, we control police detective James Karra, who has lost his wife, Rachel.

Gaming-DB

Nobody Wants to Die

The story of a man who loses his wife in a world where everyone is immortal.

pros

cons

World design and atmosphere

Intriguing story

Time manipulation mechanic

Story becomes confusing towards the end

Choices lack impact

At its core, Nobody Wants to Die is a walking simulator with simple puzzles. As a detective, we try to uncover the truth behind various murders while dealing with the pain of our main character, James Karra, losing his wife Rachel. James hasn’t been able to move on from Rachel’s death and frequently experiences hallucinations of her.

Life ends. Even memories fade away. Nothing else will happen. We tried, I know. We were stupid. That would be wrong. We would be bad people. We really are. Because we’re still alive.

James, who died in an accident, has been transferred to a new body. Due to the side effects of mind transfer, he struggles to remember his past. He has great difficulty recalling how Rachel died and how he himself died. These struggles push him into a deep depression.

Gameplay

The game is essentially a walking simulator. The puzzles in the game are simply there for the player to interact with and learn the story. At crime scenes, you use your detective equipment to try and figure out what happened there.

The advancement of technology has given police new tools. In addition to X-Ray and UV cameras, we can move time forward or backward in a specific area. This time manipulation mechanic is at the core of the puzzle system. At first, we can only move a little in time, but as we find clues at the crime scene, we can go further back and forth. When we reach the stage where we can move back and forth throughout the entire event, we can see how it unfolded.

Using the X-Ray and UV cameras in the game is quite uncomfortable. A small screen opens in the bottom right, and you view through this screen. You struggle to move your character due to something that’s not in the center of your screen. This can be frustrating in some parts of the game.

However, using the Reconstructor - the tool you use to move time back and forth - is quite enjoyable. You gradually examine an event you’ve only seen the result of, witnessing its occurrence. After collecting all the evidence at the scene, you go home and piece the evidence together. This is how you create a sequence of events. This section is quite tedious because you’ve already discovered these connections while collecting evidence and moving time back and forth. Dealing with the same thing again becomes boring.

Story

In a dystopian world, we embody a man who has lost his wife and died many times. While learning about our character James’s past along with him, we investigate a series of murders happening to the important figures who made our world possible.

As we explore crime scenes, our colleague Sara helps us. At first, Sara seems like a character added just to keep our character from being silent, to have someone to talk to, but as the game progresses, she becomes more involved in the events.

We have many dialogue options in the game. Some of these choices affect the game’s finale. The game has four different endings, but three of them are very similar to each other. So we can consider it as having two endings. During many choices, the game tells you that this decision will affect the course of the game. However, only a few choices actually have an impact.

While the game’s story and plot progress nicely, everything goes off the rails as you approach the end of the game. It becomes difficult to follow what’s happening. The second half of the game is definitely rushed. You finish the game full of questions like “Who did what and why, who was this?”

Atmosphere and Graphics

The game looks amazing. The depiction of the dystopian world is perfect. Dark, endless skyscrapers, flying classic cars, it has its own unique world style. It presents you with an alternative future and does it very well. A world that darkens your insides as you look at it. I’m leaving some screenshots I took here:

The game’s atmosphere keeps you playing despite some of its problems. Although voice acting occasionally breaks the atmosphere, overall, the game’s atmosphere keeps you engaged. Don’t get me wrong, the voice acting isn’t bad. However, in some places, new lines have been added between dialogues, and these lines weren’t voiced with the same tone as the previous line. Imagine this: your character is speaking angrily. Suddenly, a calmly spoken sentence is inserted. Then he continues speaking angrily again. This situation somewhat breaks the game’s atmosphere.

Conclusion

An impressive world, an intriguing story (even if it goes off the rails towards the end), puzzles that keep you engaged in the game. Although the game has some issues, if you enjoy dystopias and cyberpunk worlds, I recommend playing Nobody Wants To Die. As long as you don’t have too high expectations from the game, it won’t disappoint you.

Gaming-DB

Nobody Wants to Die

The story of a man who loses his wife in a world where everyone is immortal.

pros

cons

World design and atmosphere

Intriguing story

Time manipulation mechanic

Story becomes confusing towards the end

Choices lack impact

Unreal Engine Reduces Its Commission!

Skyline — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 17:27:01 GMT

unreal engine game development is unreal engine free

Unreal Engine Reduces Its Commission!

Skyline

• October 1, 2024

Unreal Engine Lowers Commission Rate

Unreal Engine has announced exciting news for game developers. Starting January 1st, developers who publish their games simultaneously on the Epic Games Store and other marketplaces (PC and Android stores) using Unreal Engine will be able to reduce their commission rates from 5% to 3.5%.

This new arrangement allows developers to earn more profit while aiming to increase the number of games released on the Epic Games Store. Currently, many games, even if made with Unreal Engine, were not being published on the Epic Games Store.

Brand New Games Coming in October: Call of Duty BO6, Silent Hill 2

EdgeTypE — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 15:50:36 GMT

games coming out in October upcoming games new games

Brand New Games Coming in October: Call of Duty BO6, Silent Hill 2

EdgeTypE

• October 1, 2024

Games Coming Out in October 2024

This October, the gaming world is hosting a plethora of horror and action titles. Here are the games coming out this month:

Until Dawn (October 4)

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5
Supermassive Games is revisiting Until Dawn. If you didn’t give it a chance back in the day, take a look - that is, if you’re into horror games.

Silent Hill 2 (October 6)

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5
This month, the horror genre classic Silent Hill 2 is back. Developed by Bloober Team, the game adds modern touches while staying true to the original. It looks like Konami’s attempt at a remake without spending too much. Don’t set your expectations as high as the Resident Evil remakes.

Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred (October 8)

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
The first expansion pack for Diablo 4.

Metaphor: ReFantazio (October 11)

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|SNot much to say here, I’m not into Atlus games at all. Those interested will probably go “Oh yeah, that game existed” when they see it.

Starship Troopers: Extermination (October 11)

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
A Starship Troopers game. We can roughly sum it up as the FPS version of Helldivers 2. You hunt bugs with your team. I’m planning to play it if I get the chance. I’d also recommend the book.

Life is Strange: Double Exposure (October 15)

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch
Life is Strange with time travel.

A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead (October 17)

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
A horror game set in the universe of the film of the same name. As the name suggests, you need to play by paying attention to sounds.

Sonic X Shadow Generations (October 22)

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Switch
I’m a simple person. I want to play when I see Sonic, but I don’t.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 (October 25)

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
The first Call of Duty game to come to Game Pass on day one. I don’t have much hope after the MW3 fiasco, but I’m still expecting a good story mode.

Batman: Arkham Shadow (October 2024)

Platforms: Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S
Let’s milk the Batman from the Arkham games in VR too.

Dragon Age: The Veilguard (October 31)

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
BioWare is trying to return to its glory days with the Dragon Age series. The new game in the venerable RPG series. The game was originally announced as Dragon Age: Dreadwolf. However, they suddenly changed its name to The Veilguard a month ago. It’s a game I’m eagerly waiting for. I hope it comes out soon so BioWare can finally make the new Mass Effect.

Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered (October 31)

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5
Sony thinks there’s still milk to be squeezed from Horizon Zero Dawn and is coming to sell a polished version of a game that’s only a few years old.

This month will also see an expansion pack released for Alan Wake II. The exact release date hasn’t been announced yet. Additionally, To the Moon will be coming to next-gen consoles.

Which game are you looking forward to the most this month?

Football Manager 25 Officially Announced: Release Date and New Features Revealed

Skyline — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 15:52:10 GMT

fm 25 football manager 25 fm 25 release date

Football Manager 25 Officially Announced: Release Date and New Features Revealed

Skyline

• September 30, 2024

Football Manager 25 Officially Announced: Release Date and New Features Revealed

Football Manager 25 (FM25) has finally been officially announced. Previous leaks were confirmed, and the game’s release date is set for November 26, 2024. The game will be playable on PC, Mac, Xbox, PlayStation 5, and Game Pass. The FM25 Touch version for Nintendo Switch will be released digitally on December 3.

Transition to Unity Engine and Gameplay Improvements

FM25 comes with a significant technical and visual change this year. The transition to the Unity game engine brings many new features to the game. (Many things are also going away. For example, we will no longer be able to manage national teams.) The new engine will provide both a more realistic and deeper football management experience. Additionally, the inclusion of women’s football, a completely revamped interface, and visually enhanced match day experience are among the game’s prominent new features.

Women’s Football and Tactical Revolution

The Football Manager series will introduce women’s football for the first time with FM25. Along with this, the in-game tactical management and manager customization systems have undergone a radical overhaul.

Release Date and Pre-order Details

FM25 will be released worldwide on November 26. The game will be available for pre-order on digital stores with a 10% discount starting from September 30. Pre-orders for FM25 Console (Xbox/PS5) will begin at a later date. Also, players will be able to transfer their saved games from FM24 to FM25. This feature will be available for the FM25 Mobile series for the first time.

Upcoming Announcements and Roadmap

More developments and details about FM25 will be announced in the coming weeks. More information about the release of FM25 Touch will be shared soon.

We hope to see a good Football Manager game, unlike recent years. We’ve been waiting for a long time. What are your expectations from the game?

New Minecraft Update 'Bundles of Bravery' Introduces Exciting Additions to the Game

Skyline — Sat, 28 Sep 2024 17:54:45 GMT

minecraft minecraft 1.22 minecraft bundles of bravery

New Minecraft Update 'Bundles of Bravery' Introduces Exciting Additions to the Game

Skyline

• September 28, 2024

Minecraft’s New Update: Bundles of Bravery

Minecraft unveiled its new update during today’s Minecraft Live event. This update, dubbed Bundles of Bravery, introduces a new mob and biome to the game.

Highlighted Features

New Biome and Creature

One of the most striking features of the update is the new “Pale Garden” biome added to the game. This eerie and pallid garden invites players into a mysterious atmosphere. Along with the biome, a new creature called “The Creaking” is also being introduced to the game.

The Creaking is designed with a unique mechanic that will require players to play without blinking. This creature only moves when players are not looking at it. Additionally, The Creaking, which has a special connection with trees, can prevent damage from players.To defeat The Creaking, players first need to break a living block called the “Creaking Heart”. After breaking the block, The Creaking can start taking damage.

Inventory Management and Decoration

The update also brings the “Bundles” system, allowing players to organize their inventories more effectively (finally!). Additionally, decorative elements inspired by the new Pale Garden biome are being added. Players will be able to decorate their worlds with trees and vegetation from the Pale Garden biome.

Hardcore Mode for Bedrock Edition

The Hardcore mode is finally coming to Minecraft’s Bedrock edition. This game mode, which has been in the Java edition for years, is now arriving on Bedrock after a long wait. In this mode, if you die, you can’t respawn.

The Minecraft team stated that these new contents will be playable within the next few months. But I’m sure modders will have added these features to the game within a few days.

Assassin's Creed Shadows Release Date Delayed!

Skyline — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 17:13:20 GMT

assassin's creed ac shadows assassin's creed shadows

Assassin's Creed Shadows Release Date Delayed!

Skyline

• September 25, 2024

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Release Date Delayed: Important Announcement from Ubisoft

Ubisoft has announced that the release date for their highly anticipated new game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, has been delayed. The game, set in Feudal Japan, will now be released on February 14, 2025, instead of the original date of November 15, 2024.

Reasons for the Delay and Innovations

Marc-Alexis Côté, a Ubisoft executive, explained the reasons behind the delay decision:

“Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a dream project for us. We’re finally bringing the series to Feudal Japan and introducing many features developed with community feedback in mind, such as parkour and revamped stealth mechanics. However, we realized we needed additional time to further perfect this ambitious project and enhance some core features.”

Important Changes and Innovations

Simultaneous Steam Release: The game will be released on Steam on the same day as other platforms.
Pre-order Bonus: The first expansion pack will be offered free of charge for all pre-orders.
Existing Pre-orders: Those who have already pre-ordered will have their payments refunded.

Two Main Characters

Unlike the usual structure of the Assassin’s Creed series, Assassin’s Creed Shadows will be playable with two main characters. These characters, named Naoe and Yasuke, will offer players different gameplay styles.

Ubisoft announced the delay with this statement:

Dear players, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a dream project for us. Thanks to new technologies, we’re finally bringing the series to Feudal Japan with many features developed with our community in mind, such as parkour or revamped stealth, all set in a stunning and immersive world.

This project will make an ambitious contribution to the series, offering a rich experience that can be lived through the eyes of two unique heroes. However, we realize we need more time to polish and improve this experience, and we will take some core features even further. Therefore, we have decided to postpone the release date to February 14, 2025. The game will be released on a wide range of platforms, including Steam, at launch.

Additionally, existing pre-orders will be refunded, and all future pre-orders will be offered the first expansion pack for free. We are aware that this decision will be a disappointment, especially for those patiently waiting for an Assassin’s Creed game inspired by Feudal Japan, but we sincerely believe this is for the benefit of the game and ultimately your experience as a player.

You can be sure that we are eagerly looking forward to the moment when you’ll embark on an unforgettable adventure with Naoe and Yasuke. Until then, thank you for your ongoing support.

On behalf of all the teams working on Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Marc-Alexis Côté.

Ubisoft emphasized that they will use this additional time to further develop and polish the game to meet players’ expectations. The company claims that Assassin’s Creed Shadows will be the most ambitious and comprehensive game in the series. We hope we’ll be greeted with a solid game.

Please note that this news was originally written in Turkish. As a result of the translation process, there may be instances where the translated text contains inaccurate equivalents of terms or expressions.

State of Play Summary: Ghost of Yōtei...

Skyline — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 07:43:18 GMT

ghost of tsushima 2 state of play horizon zero dawn remastered

State of Play Summary: Ghost of Yōtei...

Skyline

• September 25, 2024

PlayStation State of Play: New Games and Exciting Updates

We’ve compiled a list of the games shown and announcements made at PlayStation’s latest State of Play event for you.

Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered

Guerrilla Games’ Horizon Zero Dawn, loved by some and hated by others, is returning with a remastered version for PS5 and PC on October 31. How much it’s been remastered is somewhat relative. It’s obviously an unnecessary effort.

Ghost of Yōtei

Sucker Punch has announced Ghost of Yōtei, a new Japanese-themed game following Ghost of Tsushima. The game will be released for PlayStation 5 next year.

New Footage from Dragon Age: The Veilguard

EA shared new gameplay footage from the highly anticipated Dragon Age: The Veilguard. Set to release on PS5 on October 31, the game promises an epic adventure for fans of the series.

Monster Hunter Wilds

Monster Hunter Wilds will be released for PS5 on February 28, 2025. The game promises an exciting adventure with new regions and monsters.

Hell is Us

Rogue Factor shared the first gameplay footage of Hell is Us, coming to PS5. The atmosphere looks really good.

Metro Awakening

Vertigo Games announced that Metro Awakening will be coming to PS VR2 on November 7. To avoid confusion, this is not the long-awaited Metro 4. Metro 4 is still in development. This is a spin-off game.

Alan Wake 2: The Lake House

The Alan Wake 2: The Lake House expansion pack, coming out in October, offers a thrilling story set on the shores of Cauldron Lake. A survival struggle awaits you in this eerie place where reality collides with darkness as a result of experiments.

Other Important Announcements

LEGO Horizon Adventures: Releasing on November 14.
Astro Bot: New speed run levels and 10 new Special Bots coming this fall.
Fortnite: Split-screen mode is being added to LEGO Fortnite.
Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered: The classic series returns with remastered versions for PS4 and PS5 on December 10.

Which game from the event caught your interest the most?

Please note that this news was originally written in Turkish. As a result of the translation process, there may be instances where the translated text contains inaccurate equivalents of terms or expressions.

First Image from the New Battlefield Game Revealed!

Skyline — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 19:59:15 GMT

battlefield battlefield 6 new battlefield

First Image from the New Battlefield Game Revealed!

Skyline

• September 16, 2024

New Battlefield Game Returns to Modern Times

Electronic Arts (EA) has shared the first details about the highly anticipated new Battlefield game with IGN. Vince Zampella, founder of Respawn Entertainment and general manager at EA, made important statements in an exclusive interview with IGN.

Return to the Modern Era

Zampella confirmed that the new Battlefield game will be set in a modern environment. This means we’re leaving behind the futuristic theme set in 2042.

Zampella explained this decision: “When we look at Battlefield’s peak, we see the era of Battlefield 3 and 4. We need to return to the essence of the series and do it perfectly.”

Back to Core Features

The new game is moving away from the criticized features of Battlefield 2042. For example:

The focus will be on 64-player maps instead of 128-player maps.
The Specialist system will be removed, returning to the classic class system.

First Image

EA also shared the first concept art of the game. The image resembles a city in Europe, although we don’t know exactly which city it is.

Future Plans

The exact release date of the game is not yet known, but EA is believed to be targeting 2025. Zampella said, “We’re testing the game every week and plan to launch a community program next year.”

This new game, which seems exciting for Battlefield fans, appears to be aiming to reach its former successful days by returning to the roots of the series.

Source

Football Manager 25 Leaked: Release Date Revealed

Skyline — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 12:25:06 GMT

football manager 25 fm 25 release date football manager 25 release date

Football Manager 25 Leaked: Release Date Revealed

Skyline

• September 11, 2024

Exciting information about FM25, the new game in the Football Manager series, has emerged. According to details shared by reliable leaker billbil_kun, the official announcement and pre-orders will open on September 24, 2024. The game is set to release on November 26, 2024.

New Game Engine and Interface

FM25 will be a significant milestone in the series’ history. The game will be completely revamped with a transition to the Unity graphics engine. This change will offer a new user interface and improved animations. Additionally, women’s football will be included in the series for the first time. This year, the Premier League license will also be added to the game. However, due to development time constraints, some features like international management mode will not be included in FM25. You can find more information in our article here.

Release Date

Official Announcement and Pre-orders: September 24, 2024
Release: November 26, 2024

What are your expectations for the game? Do you think the Football Manager series, which has been clearly losing popularity, can make a comeback with this game?

Star Wars Outlaws Review

EdgeTypE — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 15:00:00 GMT

star wars outlaws review star wars outlaws star wars outlaws reviews

Star Wars Outlaws Review

EdgeTypE

• August 26, 2024

I played and finished Star Wars Outlaws thanks to early access provided by Ubisoft. At first, the game really bothered me, and with the embargo in place, I couldn’t talk to anyone about it. I sat there by myself thinking, “Oh no, how is this game going to end?” This thought continued until the game allowed me to go into space for the second time, and generally, as I progressed through the game, the annoyance gave way to satisfaction.

Gaming-DB

Star Wars Outlaws

Far from perfect, but if a sequel comes out, I'd want to play it from day one.

pros

cons

Space sections look great

Missions offer freedom

Main story pushes you to do side quests

Weak boss fights

Outdated graphics

Poor animations

Star Wars Outlaws feels like a collection of different games while playing. Some parts feel like Tomb Raider, some like Deus Ex, and some like Assassin’s Creed.

Story

In the game, you control Kay Vess, a mix between a thief and an outlaw. Kay’s life of stealing to make ends meet changes when she robs the wrong person. After stealing a very valuable item from a man named Sliro, he uses all his power to put a death order on Kay Vess. Throughout the game, our main goal is to escape this death order.

To save your life, you steal a spaceship and jump into space, but Kay has no idea how to fly a ship. As a result, you crash on a planet. On this planet called Toshara, while a mechanic named Waka repairs your crashed ship, you start to get involved in Toshara’s criminal underworld. The game takes place after Star Wars V: The Empire Strikes Back. Crime organizations and cartels have spread throughout the galaxy, and these cartels are in conflict with each other. You’re trying to find your own way within this conflict of interests.

Reputation System

The game has a reputation system. The decisions you make throughout the story and the missions you complete affect your relationship with the crime organizations we mentioned earlier. A mission you complete might benefit one group while going against another. As a result, your relationship with one group improves while it worsens with another. Your relationship with these groups doesn’t affect the course of the story. I think it only changes a 5-10 second scene in the finale, that’s all. The impact of the reputation system is on gameplay. For example, you need a material to upgrade your weapon. This material might only be available from various cartels. If you’re on good terms with that cartel, you can go and buy the item from a vendor affiliated with that cartel. If you’re on bad terms with that cartel, you can sneak into the cartel’s warehouse and steal the item. If you get caught while stealing, your relationship with that cartel deteriorates even further.

There’s a design flaw in the game. We need to sneak into a cartel’s warehouse, get the item we want, and sneak out again. If we get caught trying to get in, the cartel officials kick us out, and our relationship drops. You try to sneak in again. Here’s the problem: if you get caught after sneaking in and stealing the item, they don’t take back the stolen item. Your relationship just drops a bit. You don’t need to bother with slowly sneaking out again. You can easily repair that relationship by doing a short side mission anyway.

The reputation system attempts to add an RPG experience to the game but fails. I wish they had made an RPG like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey and added this system to that game. That would have been much better. As it is in Star Wars Outlaws, it only makes your job easier in some places and harder in others during gameplay. For example, if you enter an area belonging to a cartel you have extremely bad relations with, they attack you. That’s about it.

Gameplay

As I mentioned earlier, Star Wars Outlaws has a collection of gameplay mechanics. Basic mechanics have been taken from many games, but nothing has been added to them. There’s very little depth to the gameplay. The “shoot, kill, advance” or “sneak to the target” cycles are done in their most primitive forms. While the stealth sections provide a bit of depth thanks to our companion Nix, the action is very plain.

Nix

Nix is our axolotl-like pet. Sometimes it brings items dropped by enemies we’ve killed, sometimes it passes through tiny holes to press buttons in rooms we want to access. Before playing the game, I didn’t think it would have much function, but you constantly need it in the game. There’s a part in the story where we can’t use it, and in that part, you realize how useful it is. You can use Nix to distract your enemies and sneak past them, or to progress in platform sections. Sometimes when an enemy attacks you, it jumps on their head, blocking their view and saving your life. It reminded me of Reuben from Minecraft: Story Mode.

You have to use Nix effectively in the game, especially in stealth sections.

Stealth

Maybe it’s because I just finished the Hitman games, but the stealth felt very shallow to me. These stealth sections usually involve using Nix to make an enemy look the other way so we can enter the ventilation behind them. These parts reminded me a bit of the stealth sections in Deus Ex. Sometimes you need to sneak through very large areas. In these parts, stealth can be challenging, but it’s not a satisfying challenge. I generally played the game focusing on stealth. In most missions, it’s up to you whether to go stealthy or just charge in guns blazing. But in some missions, stealth is mandatory, and in these missions, going stealthy is very overwhelming. In these sections, your goal is to progress without triggering an alarm. You can engage in armed action if you want, but if they sound the alarm, you’re done. When enemies spot you, they go to the nearest radio station-like thing and sound the alarm from there. You can use Nix to disable the radio station in advance. This way, even if you abandon stealth, the enemy can’t sound the alarm. You can make as much noise as you want. This breaks the game’s credibility. We’re having a world war in the room, lasers are flying everywhere, things are exploding. But the person in the next room doesn’t hear and the alarm isn’t triggered.

Apart from the places where we’re forced to go stealthy, I enjoyed the stealth. Especially moving through ventilation in places belonging to the Galactic Empire feels enjoyable.

Puzzles and Platform Sections

There are many platform elements and puzzles in the game. You throw a hook to a tree branch and jump across a cliff, you climb walls. These are the parts of the game that feel like Tomb Raider. They’re not challenging at all, and the places you need to jump to are bright yellow. It’s very obvious. The yellow sickness in modern games continues here too. But I like the platform sections in Assassin’s Creed where we don’t do anything other than pressing the run button anyway. The reason why Assassin’s Creed’s platform sections feel good despite being so simple is due to the quality of the animations. However, the animations in Star Wars Outlaws are very bad. To make sure, I went and opened the first Assassin’s Creed. Despite coming out in 2007, it has much more fluid animations than this game. Especially when I first started the game, these animations really bothered me, but fortunately, I got used to them after a while.

The puzzle sections of the game usually happen within the platform sections. As you progress, you find the way blocked. We solve fairly simple puzzles using Nix to remove the obstacles in front of us.

Action

The action in the game feels like Uncharted. Although the game is open world, the missions are actually very linear. There are plenty of moments where missions offer you freedom. But it’s a very controlled freedom. I encountered the “Return to the mission area” screen many times. It’s okay when you’re trying to infiltrate a headquarters or something, but I even encountered this during a chase in the open world. I stole an item from a cartel’s warehouse, they noticed and started chasing me. I jumped on my bike and started running. The screen suddenly went black, “return to the mission area”. Things like this undermine the game’s immersion.

Kay, our character, carries only one pistol throughout the game. This pistol has three different slots: Plasma, ion, and power. Each of these slots has different usage modes. Single normal standard shot. Triple shot modes are available, and you can develop these modes if you wish. You can make your pistol shoot more times before the magazine runs out, increase the damage it deals, and so on.

You frequently use all three different slots in the game. You use plasma mode during normal combat. When you encounter a robot or a shielded enemy, you switch to ion mode. You use the third mode when fighting few but powerful enemies. It allows you to make a slow but powerful shot. You can quickly switch between these slots in the game, but to switch between the modes within the slots, you need to go to weapon upgrade points.

There’s also a stunning shot mode for our weapon. You take a single shot, and the enemy you hit is stunned. However, you can’t use this consecutively. After using it once, it enters a long cooldown period. So you need to choose carefully when to use it. I mostly used it to neutralize two people walking side by side when going stealthy. I stunned one of the side-by-side enemies with the gun, then immediately made a close attack to neutralize the other.

There are actually other weapons we can use in the game besides the pistol. But we can only pick these up and use them from the ground. When their magazines run out, or when we need to interact with another object, our character throws the weapon to the ground. You collect these weapons from enemies you’ve killed. After killing an enemy, you can send Nix to get their weapon. I wish we could collect weapons. Going through the entire game with just one pistol starts to get boring after a while. Your enemies usually don’t appear in very large groups. If there’s a very large group of enemies in front of you, you’re required to go stealthy in that section anyway. And in this situation, you don’t have much opportunity to use weapons dropped by enemies. By the time you send Nix to bring the weapon, you’ve already killed the enemy with your pistol. This makes the action boring.

I started playing the game on August 21st. The embargo would be lifted on August 26th. So I had 5 days to play the game and prepare the review. The creative director of the game said in an interview that the main story would take 25-30 hours. Since I didn’t want to write the review without finishing the game, I focused only on the main story. I finished the game in 13 hours and 59 minutes. This includes the side quests that the game forces you to do. During this time, the boredom of the action didn’t bother me much, but if you play doing lots of side quests, you’ll probably pass out at some point.

Mission Variety

The missions in the game are divided into three: Main story, cartel missions, and side quests.

The main story missions don’t have much variety within themselves. I even infiltrated almost identical Empire headquarters on different planets more than once. So the game obviously repeats itself. Except for the beginning, even though the main story missions repeat themselves at times, they’re engaging. As our character Kay steps into the world of cartels, a mysterious man named Jaylen notices Kay’s potential and asks her to gather a team for an astronomically large heist. Our main story is about Kay gathering this team and the heist. In this aspect, it reminded me of Mass Effect 2 in terms of story mathematics. As I said at the beginning, this game is a complete collection computer.

In cartel missions, one of the 4 cartels in the game universe comes and gives you a job. You do it. For example, one of the cartels comes and asks you to steal a loot. Two different cartels will make an exchange. We need to steal the item that is the subject of this exchange, the loot. When you go to get the loot, we see that two different cartels are about to make a deal. But they notice our character Kay, and both sides think we’re from the other side. Thus, a conflict triangle emerges. Everyone attacks each other. At the end of the conflict, only we survive. When we search for the loot, we realize that the seller cartel didn’t actually bring the loot. We go to one of that cartel’s warehouses, secretly steal the loot, and take it to our employer. Our employer actually didn’t want this loot for himself. He put us on this mission for an Empire official. As we’re about to leave, the Empire official asks us for a bribe. If we don’t pay him, he says he’ll add us to the criminal list and we’ll be hunted by Stormtroopers. The decision is up to us here. If we want, we can pay the bribe and walk away freely. Or we can stand our ground and leave the scene. I didn’t pay the bribe and left the place. As soon as I left the place, Stormtroopers were after me. I remembered another Empire official who had asked me for a bribe before. He had said that if the Empire was after me, he could clear my name for a fee. I jumped into my spaceship and headed for that planet. When I landed on the planet and went to the official, I realized that the Empire had already stopped chasing me. If you change star systems, the Empire loses your trail.

In side quests, there are tasks like “let’s play this card game” and so on. They consist of what we call flower-bug collecting quests.

Open World

Although the Star Wars atmosphere is nice, there’s not much activity in the open world. There wasn’t as much content as I expected, neither on the planets nor in space. Although we play on 4 different planets in the game, it felt like if we combined them all, it wouldn’t even make up an average open world map. I’m not a person who likes the open world concept. So maybe there might be things you would like.

We have another vehicle we use in the game besides the spaceship. Our Speeder, or flying motorcycle. We use this as a means of transportation after landing on a planet. However, using this feels like a lot of torture. It’s very difficult to control, you constantly crash. The vehicle moves at a constant speed. This causes you to constantly crash into places when taking turns. The game asks you to upgrade your speeder in various places to progress in the main story. With these upgrades, you add nitro, jumping, and so on to the vehicle.

There are times when you engage in action on the Speeder. However, during these times, you can only fire when Kay’s adrenaline bar is full. When the adrenaline bar is full, you stop time and mark 3 enemies. And Kay fires at them. You don’t have the ability to freely fire while riding the Speeder. By the way, you can use this adrenaline feature in the normal game too. It’s not exclusive to the Speeder. During a fight, you can take down your enemies using adrenaline.

Space

Space… Vast, dark, cold, endless void. Although space looks very beautiful in this game, it’s very empty. I move a little bit, it says “return to the mission area”. As for content, there’s not much besides pirates and cartels fighting each other. As for spaceship usage, you’re not controlling a spaceship. You’re controlling a bus in the shape of a spaceship. There’s nothing that makes this feel different from a battle in the sky. When you’re going from one planet to another, you open the menu and select the planet you want to go to. There’s no seamless transition like in No Man’s Sky, but it’s not as game-breaking as Starfield either. You travel towards the planet you want to land on for 10-15 seconds, and a menu opens where you’ll choose where you want to land. After you choose, your ship enters the clouds. They’ve hidden the loading screen in the clouds. I prefer this to a black loading screen.

As for spaceship action. There’s very little space action throughout the main story. You’ll probably encounter more space-related things when doing side quests. Because I didn’t even feel the need to upgrade the ship at all. A part of the ship was broken, I didn’t even need to get it repaired. There’s not much depth in ship action either. The simplest action system that could be made has been made. It’s not enjoyable.

However, being in space still feels very good. Because the visuals of space are perfect. It looks very good. Although the graphics of the game are generally bad, these parts are very nice.

Visuals

Although the Star Wars atmosphere of the game is beautiful, the graphic quality feels outdated. Except for the space sections, the graphic quality is poor. Animations, environmental details, texture quality make you feel like you’re playing a 5-10 year old game.

Bugs

I encountered numerous glitches, bugs, and crashes throughout the game. While I never ran into any game-breaking bugs that halted progression, the game did crash four times. I played the game through early access provided by Ubisoft, and I’d like to thank them again for that. The game will receive an update upon release, but I’m unsure how many of these issues it will resolve. This was my first time getting access to a game simultaneously with the rest of the press before its release. Therefore, it wouldn’t be fair for me to comment on bugs in pre-release versions of games. I experienced many issues such as characters stuck in T-pose, objects clipping through buildings, AI going haywire, and textures failing to load. The texture problems made it feel like I was playing a next-gen game on a dying hard drive. At one point, I even wondered, “Did I accidentally install the game on an HDD instead of my M2 SSD?” In the version I played, even frame generation wasn’t working properly. I hope most of these issues will be fixed with the day one patch, but I’m not too optimistic.

As I mentioned earlier, this was my first time preparing a review before a game’s release, without the ability to prepare a press review. It was quite an experience to play without being able to check YouTube when stuck or knowing any other people’s opinions about the game. In all my previous reviews, even if I didn’t read other reviews, I would at least see the scores the game received. This inevitably created some bias. Playing without this preconception felt more enjoyable.

Star Wars

I’m not very familiar with Star Wars. I had only watched Star Wars episodes 4 and 5. I also watched an animated series on Disney Channel when I was younger, but I don’t remember it at all. Star Wars Outlaws takes place between the 5th and 6th films. After finishing the game, I felt like watching the other films in the series. The game does a good job of capturing the Star Wars atmosphere. You’re not in a characterless world.

Is It Worth Playing?

If you’re a Star Wars fan, I definitely recommend it. However, if you’re like me and don’t have much connection to Star Wars, I’d suggest checking it out only when you’ve run out of other games to play. In its current state, it’s an average game that doesn’t stand out in any particular way aside from its Star Wars theme.

Gaming-DB

Star Wars Outlaws

Far from perfect, but if a sequel comes out, I'd want to play it from day one.

pros

cons

Space sections look great

Missions offer freedom

Main story pushes you to do side quests

Weak boss fights

Outdated graphics

Poor animations

Please note that this review was originally written in Turkish. As a result of the translation process, there may be instances where the translated text contains inaccurate equivalents of terms or expressions.

Senua's Saga: Hellblade II Review

EdgeTypE — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 00:00:00 GMT

hellblade Senua's Saga: Hellblade II Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice

Senua's Saga: Hellblade II Review

EdgeTypE

• August 2, 2024

If you had a time machine and went back to the day before Hellblade II’s release to ask me about the game I was most anticipating, I would have said Hellblade 2. That day has come, and the game is out.

Gaming-DB

Senua's Saga: Hellblade II

It failed to address the shortcomings of the first game, instead adding new ones.

pros

cons

Graphics

Action scenes

Music

Boring puzzles

Cave section

Story not as impactful as the first game

Before we dive into Hellblade 2, let me tell you about my connection to the Hellblade series. A few years ago, I got a 15-day Game Pass trial code. While looking for short games I could finish during this period, I came across Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice. Without knowing anything about the game, I downloaded it. I checked if my computer could handle it and went to sleep, as it was nighttime. The next morning, I had breakfast and sat down to play Hellblade. It was an incredible game; I didn’t leave my seat except for lunch. I finished the game that day.

The game promised a unique experience. However, this year’s new Hellblade game is an ordinary production that you can find examples of in many places.

The first game was a more unique, experimental work. Throughout the game, we solved various puzzles and engaged in short combat sequences. The game stood out more with its perfect cinematic narrative. I was unsure whether to expect this kind of experimental work from the second game or something more conventional. Ninja Theory, the developer of the first Hellblade, was acquired by Microsoft after its release, and Hellblade II was developed with Microsoft’s support. Would this game be Xbox’s God of War?

When the first gameplay video was released, we learned that no, this game aims to provide a cinematic experience like the first one. As someone who loved the first game, this wasn’t disappointing to me. However, after all the waiting, my first impression of Hellblade II is that it’s far from the level of the first game.

I won’t make ridiculous criticisms like “this isn’t a game, it’s a movie” in this review, rest assured. Contrary to what interaction enthusiasts say, this is a game.

Everything we can interact with is a game. Whether you change the course of the story through dialogue interactions or choose to walk on the left side of the path instead of the right. The type and dose of interaction depend on your gaming preferences. Let’s get back to Hellblade 2.

If you asked me to list my favorite games, I’d put the first Hellblade in the top three. I might even put it in first place. That’s how much I love that game. It’s an almost flawless work within its own concept. However, Hellblade 2 has regressed in many things that the first game did well.

Don’t get me wrong, Hellblade 2 is a pretty good game, but it’s far from the bar set by the first game.

In both games, we control a character named Senua.

Senua has suffered from psychosis throughout her life, which she refers to as darkness. This illness has made her entire life miserable. She was seen as a curse sent by the gods due to this illness by the community she lived in. Just because of this, she was kept imprisoned at home by her father Zynbel and not even allowed to go outside. Senua’s life, where she rarely went out, changed when she met a young man named Dillion. Dillion didn’t believe in Senua’s curse, and slowly a relationship developed between Senua and Dillion. However, after some events, Dillion loses his life. The first game was about Senua’s journey to save Dillion’s soul from Helheim. This game focuses entirely on Senua’s psychology. It perfectly illustrates the chaos, fear, and anxiety inside Senua’s mind.

However, the second game fails to maintain this psychological atmosphere. The theme it replaces this psychological atmosphere with feels very loose. After the events of the first game, Senua embarks on a journey to Iceland to both take revenge and save her people. Our character Senua makes friends and enemies on this journey. The main theme of the game is actually the psychology of the people we meet. Everyone has their own troubles and problems from the past. At times we empathize with these troubles, at times we use these troubles to gain superiority over them.

It might sound like a good concept, and yes, it is. However, a single target is always easier than multiple targets. The first game used all its bullets to describe Senua’s state of mind. This game doesn’t have that luxury; it has a few bullets for all characters.

As such, it doesn’t reach the impressiveness of the first game.

As I said before, if I had played this game without playing the first one, I would have liked it a lot. But the first game really raises the bar.

Before continuing this review, we strongly recommend you read our review of the first game.

Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice isn’t a game everyone will like. But it’s a game everyone should experience. However, the second game is definitely not a game everyone should experience. Despite being shorter than the first game, it’s much more boring. The game lasts about 6-7 hours. But right in the middle of the game, there’s such a cave section that it was the most boring thing I’ve played recently. It lasts about 1-2 hours and is so boring that I think it’s the biggest burden for those who don’t like the game.

For 1-2 hours, you walk empty-handed in the cave and solve menial puzzles.

I don’t know what you think, but I don’t like it when solving puzzles in games takes too much time after I’ve found the solution. But the puzzles in Hellblade 2 are almost entirely composed of these. And this bores people.

Let’s start from the beginning.

We start Hellblade 2 on a ship where we’re being taken to Iceland as a slave. The ship gets damaged and we crash ashore. Everyone on the ship has washed up in different places. Our character Senua starts to move forward in fear. Due to Iceland’s nature, everywhere is rocky. We start climbing. As we try to climb, the voices in our head start saying things like “we can’t climb”, “we’ll fall” just like in the previous game. Thus, Senua’s mind slowly begins to surrender to darkness.

Then someone appears ahead. What’s that? Darkness. They’ve given darkness a body.

The dark symbolism I praised in the first game is completely gone.

Well, they couldn’t use the method from the first game in a game with lots of people. Okay, but this time, the narrative from the first game has disappeared. Which affects you more: someone looking into your eyes and begging in front of you, or someone kneeling and begging in front of someone else? This is just an example. Such subtle nuances in the first Hellblade are either gone or very few in this game. In fact, making a sequel to the first Hellblade was a very risky decision. Because you can’t make another game set in Senua’s mind, as there’s nothing left to face. And if you do something different, you can’t reach the bar set by the first game. They chose not to reach the bar set by the first game. I’m not mentioning it to avoid spoilers for the first game, but even continuing from the first game damages the story of the first game.

No lie, they’ve used the darkness character very well, but as I said, it’s not as impressive as in the first game.

After a short mental struggle with darkness, we continue on our way. The slave traders have started searching for the escaped slaves. But we have nothing to defend ourselves with. We try to escape secretly without even helping the captured slaves. Some of the voices in our head judge us for not helping. Others support Senua, saying there’s nothing we can do.

After progressing along the paths, we somehow find a sword and encounter the game’s action system for the first time.

The movement scheme from the first game continues exactly, but there’s a big difference this time. Every fight is like a one-on-one duel. Every fight feels like a boss fight within itself. Of course, this also depends on the difficulty mode you’re playing the game in; I played on automatic difficulty.

In this difficulty, the game dynamically makes the game easier or harder based on how you play. The combat sequences in the game are actually like an advanced quick time event.

You can’t go to the area you want, the camera locks onto the enemy. No other enemy appears until you kill that enemy. I had a definition I used to explain story-based video games to people who have no connection to games.

Think of an action movie. You're shooting in the action scenes. You're watching the rest of the scenes.

This game is exactly the game of this definition.

They’ve planned everything finely like a movie. The whole game is like scenes strung together one after another. You can’t move on to the next one without finishing a scene.

Whenever you kill your enemy, an instant cutscene enters and your new enemy appears. Only the choice of when you land your sword blows is up to you. When you make your attack and kill your opponent, your next enemy comes with short but very impressive scenes. These transition animations are perfect.

Beyond perfect, this is sheer madness. Setting up all of this is mind-boggling. But they’ve done it. There are some transitions that you won’t even see in the most cult action movies. Sometimes you can’t even tell what’s a cutscene and what’s real gameplay. The game’s progression as a single camera, single shot takes this impressiveness to the highest point.

I personally really liked this system. The effects and animations that come out during combat really make you feel like you’re in a survival struggle. I’ve seen the character’s desperation in this game.

In many games, the character we play is overwhelmingly superior to the standard enemies in the game. Because games are a kind of power fantasy for us. But in this game, every enemy is either as strong as you or much stronger than you. And the game conveys this to you very well. You really feel like you’re face to face with death.

Imagine fighting an enemy who’s exactly as strong as you, your chances of winning are fifty-fifty. As time progresses, although your chances of winning are still fifty-fifty in each new encounter, the probability of you winning consecutively decreases. If you have a 50% chance of beating the first enemy, you have a 25% chance for the second, 12.5% chance for the third. And this starts to stress you out. The game gives this feeling. Especially the fight choreographies are perfect. Everything is finely crafted. Instead of offering you a free experience that allows you to do what you want, they chose to offer a very impressive cinematic experience and they’ve done it very well. In general, you can think of Hellblade 2 as a modernized version of Telltale games.

While our enemies in the first game were mythological creatures, in this game our enemies are mostly real people. While the first game had a bit more of a hack and slash style, this game makes you feel that in every fight, you and the person you’re facing are roughly the same strength, so you could lose at any moment.

Here they’ve made such a choice. In the first game, every blow you struck was clearly visible on your enemy. It was like a glass shattering effect. But here, wound marks form that are relatively harder to see. This situation reduces the feeling of seeing the trace of each blow. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still very good, just I think it was a bit more impressive in the first game.

To attack, you need to disrupt your opponent’s strike. When your opponent is ineffective, that’s when you need to attack. The combat system isn’t very detailed, but it’s simple and effective.

Now, let’s talk about the most prominent feature of the first game: its narrative.

The entirety of the first game was a perfect reflection of a psychotic mind. You couldn’t distinguish between reality and imagination. It showcased Senua’s mental state brilliantly and portrayed her traumas exceptionally well. And this narrative was in perfect harmony with the gameplay and story. If the first game was like a low-budget film made with an amateur spirit but executed brilliantly, this game feels like a big-budget production lacking soul.

While the first game was entirely Senua’s personal experience, in this game we see Senua’s social life and interact with other people. In the first game, there were no characters other than our enemies and the main character. All the characters were voices in our head. Being psychotic, we heard numerous voices from our surroundings. In the first game, these voices, the story, and the cinematic narrative were in perfect harmony. However, this second game lacks that narrative perfection.

In the first game, because it focused entirely on a single character, you deeply understood Senua’s experiences and traumas. But in this game, those traumas don’t affect you as much. Multiple characters aren’t developed as well as the single character was in the first game. Which is understandable. However, the narrative that made the first game special has disappeared in this one. In the first game, you felt Senua’s fears to your core. Even during my second playthrough of the first game, there were moments when I was tense with fear, even breathless. There were times when I paused the game and just sat there, frozen with tension.

This game lacks that spirit. Everything is very professional but soulless.

Of course, this is somewhat a matter of personal taste.

I mentioned that I liked the unsettling nature of the first game. In Hellblade 2, Senua screams throughout the game, but it just irritates your ears. It’s comparable to the screams of a neighbor’s crying baby right now.

In the first game, Senua was trying to save the soul of her deceased lover, Dillion. In this game, we’re going to avenge Dillion. A tribe whose name I can’t remember enslaves people and offers them as sacrifices to giants. By doing so, they try to protect themselves from the giants’ wrath. When Senua learns about this, she discovers another way to protect themselves from the giants. Each giant used to be a normal, ordinary person. But the mistakes they made in life and the pain they experienced transformed them into giants. Senua discovers that they can neutralize the giants through these pains. This is essentially the plot of the game.

The game has a beautiful opening and a beautiful ending. But between the opening and closing, the game starts to drag significantly. As I mentioned at the beginning of the review, that cave section. It goes on and on. It goes on and on. There are no other characters in this section either. Actually, there was good potential here. While Senua was alone, they could have made a Senua-focused section like in the first game. They didn’t. In fact, the reason for all my frustrations is the things they could have done but didn’t. There’s so much wasted potential. I don’t know if Microsoft pressured them or if it was their own decision, but it’s a shame.

Let’s return to the narrative. The cinematography and visuals are excellent. Both the animations and the scenes look very good. In terms of photorealism, Hellblade 2 is undisputedly the best game ever made. I don’t think there will be a production that can surpass this anytime soon. They even made the character costumes in real life first, using the methods and materials of the historical period in which the game is set. Then they scanned these using various methods and transferred them to the digital environment. There’s truly insane effort here. I look at the game, then I look at real life. The game looks more real than reality. Everything looks so good that you can’t play the game because you’re constantly taking screenshots. They’ve made a beautiful photo mode for the game. You’ll find yourself pausing the game to take screenshots all the time. We’ve seen the first game to fully utilize Unreal Engine 5. And it looks like it won’t have a rival for a long time. Even the most photorealistic games will start to look like cartoons to you after Hellblade 2.

With the graphics being so realistic, the result is indistinguishable from a cinematic film. Especially with the advantage of being a video game, it has produced close combat scenes that we couldn’t see in any film.

It’s unrivaled in terms of production quality. I always thought that RDR2 would be the benchmark for production quality in video games and that no one could surpass it. Of course, they are very different, unrelated games, but there’s an incredible quality here.

Only the story seems a bit lackluster within the narrative.

Let’s return to the gameplay: Puzzles. The biggest flaw of the first game, as everyone agreed, was the puzzles. Although the game tried to diversify the puzzles, after a certain point, it became repetitive and bored the player. The team thought, “How can we prevent puzzles from boring the player?” and made this decision: Remove the puzzles.

There are far fewer puzzles in this game compared to the first one. They removed puzzles to reduce the tedium of puzzles, but what they replaced them with are just empty walking sequences. This hasn’t made the game more fun, but rather made it even more boring. They barely used the perspective puzzles from the first game in a few places. Instead, they created a new puzzle mechanic.

Imagine a straight path. There’s an obstacle A in front of you. When you focus on that sphere in the sky, obstacle A disappears. But a bit further, obstacle B appears. When you go between obstacle A and B and look at the sphere in the sky again, obstacle B disappears and obstacle A reappears. Since you’ve already passed that obstacle, it’s not a problem. The puzzles are a slightly more intertwined version of this concept.

I’m not a person who particularly enjoys puzzles in games. But I managed with the puzzles in the first Hellblade. Here, however, I got very bored. They’re exactly like labor puzzles. Very simple, but time-consuming. I don’t want to waste time after I’ve found the solution to the puzzles. But in this game, once you find the solution, you’ll have to go and open and close each obstacle one by one. It bored me. That infamous cave section of the game consists almost entirely of these. I even considered quitting the game. That’s how much I disliked it.

It’s as if the plans for the development part of the game were different, but then they decided to release the game early and said “add puzzles, add, add, add” as if.

It starts as a 9 out of 10 game, drops to about 5 out of 10 around this cave part. Then it rises back to 9 out of 10.

But when you look at the overall experience, it leaves a slightly sour taste in your mouth.

To sum up, Hellblade 2 is a good game for those who like the genre but it hasn’t reached the striking impact of the first game. It hasn’t addressed the shortcomings of the first game and has added new ones on top. For someone who enjoys cinematic storytelling, it’s a near-perfect game.

While writing this review, I always felt a bit uneasy. I feel like I’ve portrayed Hellblade 2 as if it were a terrible game. No, Hellblade 2 is a very good game. In most of the aspects I criticized, it’s very good, I just liked those aspects more in the first game.

Games are usually rated out of 100 points. However, nowadays, people don’t seem to weigh each point equally when rating games.

Normally, scores should be distributed linearly, but they seem to be distributed more like an exponential function graph.

The difference between 90 and 100 is much greater than the difference between 10 and 20. Actually, giving numerical scores to games in general is very inconsistent, but that’s a topic for another article.

Gaming-DB

Senua's Saga: Hellblade II

It failed to address the shortcomings of the first game, instead adding new ones.

pros

cons

Graphics

Action scenes

Music

Boring puzzles

Cave section

Story not as impactful as the first game

Please note that this review was originally written in Turkish. As a result of the translation process, there may be instances where the translated text contains inaccurate equivalents of terms or expressions.