Releases, studios, hardware, and the business of games: closures, acquisitions, unionisation, and delays. Industry news rather than reviews.
Industry leaders are considering a shift towards cloud-based gaming, citing the rising cost of hardware and the growing accessibility of PC gaming. Strauss Zelnik, CEO of Take 2 Interactive, believes that the world is moving towards open systems, with PC gaming representing 40-50% of sales. He also predicts that streaming will become a major player in the industry, potentially increasing the user base tenfold within three years.
A new trend is taking the gaming world by storm, where enthusiasts are upgrading classic retro games to 3D using modded ROMs. This allows players to experience old games in a new way, with added features like 3D visuals and omnidirectional movement. The process involves downloading a ROM file, adding a mod, and playing the game with a controller or keyboard. This trend has sparked creativity among gamers, who are experimenting with different mods and customizations.
PlayStation has reaffirmed its plan to stop releasing physical games by January 2028. New consoles now come with a disclaimer warning of the change. The move has sparked controversy among gamers who prefer physical copies.
Gothic, a 2001 German RPG, has had a lasting impact on the gaming industry. Its immersive world, systemic gameplay, and innovative design have influenced games like Skyrim, Deus Ex, and The Witcher. The game's remake, released in June, has brought new life to the classic title.
Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon of Williams participated in the F1 Grid Games, a competition where they completed various challenges to earn points. The duo faced challenges such as navigating a track without touching the wire and naming as many items in a category as possible within a time limit. They demonstrated teamwork and quick thinking to achieve a high score.
Inde Navarrette shares her earliest gaming experience, crediting her parents for introducing her to the world of video games. Her first game was a Shrek-themed party game on the PS2, which she's been trying to find. This nostalgic memory highlights the impact of family influence on her gaming habits.
Onimusha: Way of the Sword's combat mechanics have been detailed, showcasing a brutal yet satisfying experience for players. The game's combat system allows for intense battles with a focus on strategy and skill. Players can expect a challenging experience with a variety of combat options. The game's combat has been designed to be immersive and engaging. With its brutal yet satisfying combat, Onimusha: Way of the Sword promises to deliver an exciting experience.
Paradox Interactive has released Helldivers 2, a cooperative third-person shooter. The game is available on PlayStation 5 and PC. Players can team up with friends to take on alien threats.