Month: May 2025

HoYoverse recently revealed its next significant game during a concert for Honkai: Star Rail, teasing a Pokemon-like experience set within the Honkai universe. The trailer showcased various characters from the Honkai franchise, prominently featuring Kiana and Blade alongside their respective animal companions. This development has generated excitement among fans, particularly as speculation surrounding a new title, rumored to be “Honkai: Nexus Anima,” has circulated for months. The Shanghai-based developer, HoYoverse, has emerged as a major player in the online gaming industry.

After the phenomenal success of Genshin Impact in 2020, the studio continued to thrive with titles like Honkai: Star Rail and Zenless Zone Zero. With this new unveiling, HoYoverse aims to keep the momentum going and keep fans engaged with its expanding universe. The concert, titled “Star Rail Live,” not only teased the upcoming game but also revealed exciting details about a collaboration with the Fate/Stay Night franchise, which will debut in Honkai: Star Rail later this year. Playable versions of iconic characters like Saber and Archer were showcased, and new in-game events inspired by the Fate series were announced.

However, the highlight was undoubtedly the sneak peek of the new Pokemon-like game, which left fans eager for more information. Although the teaser trailer provided limited details, it sparked significant interest among gamers. The inclusion of animal companions in the trailer for Kiana and Blade hints at the new gameplay mechanics expected in the upcoming title. Furthermore, while no official release window was provided, the anticipation for “Honkai: Nexus Anima” continues to grow, particularly as HoYoverse celebrates the successes of its existing titles, including the upcoming anniversaries for Honkai: Star Rail and Zenless Zone Zero.

Erika Harlacher-Stone has hinted at her return as Venti in the upcoming Version 5.6 of Genshin Impact. The game has faced challenges in bringing back much of its English voice cast since Version 5.1, largely due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike. Harlacher-Stone, known for her role as the popular Anemo Archon, expressed her eagerness to reprise her role.

The situation has created considerable uncertainty within the community, especially following the controversial recasting of Kinich in Version 5.5. Actor Takanashi stepped in to fill the role previously voiced by John Patneaude, marking the first recast linked to the strike. The SAG-AFTRA situation has caused confusion among players, as Genshin Impact is not a union project.

Voice actors like Joe Zieja have attempted to clear up misunderstandings, highlighting that the strike has led to a collective work refusal rather than a direct impact on the game. This has allowed some actors to return to their roles, with Paimon retaining her English voice during this period. In Version 5.6, players will return to Mondstadt for an critical Archon Quest, where pivotal characters like Varka, Durin, and the Hexenzirkel will emerge in the storyline.

The community is excited about the possibility of Harlacher-Stone’s return, as her involvement would likely delight Venti’s fans. Despite the strike, some voice actors have taken a stand, voicing their concerns. Harlacher-Stone vocalized her frustrations regarding the SAG-AFTRA communications, leading to varied reactions from fellow actors in the industry.

As fans anticipate Version 5.6, which launches on May 7, 2025, they can expect a blend of narratives and events involving both new and familiar characters.

Blizzard has implemented significant changes to Reputation gains in Diablo 4’s Season 8 with a recent hotfix aimed at reducing player grind. This update, released just days after Season 8 went live on April 29, is designed to address the community’s concerns about slow progression and the limited drop rate of rare items during the early game. The adjustments made in the hotfix include substantial increases in Reputation rates for various activities.

Notably, World Bosses now grant players 2,000 Reputation per kill, a dramatic rise from the previous 250. Likewise, players can expect to earn 1,000 Reputation for defeating Lair Bosses, up from 750, while the encounter with Belial, Lord of Lies, awards 1,500 Reputation, an increase from 1,000. Blood Maidens have also seen a boost, providing 1,000 Reputation instead of just 250.

Regular Bosses now offer 750 Reputation, reflecting an important elevation from their prior 250. These enhancements will significantly facilitate players’ advancement through the Seasonal Reputation board, thereby alleviating the grind that many found frustrating in Season 8. Additionally, the hotfix included a reduction in health for Apparition Incursion Bosses, catering to players who previously faced challenges with these encounters.

Despite the mixed reception of Season 8, Blizzard’s rapid response indicates their commitment to improving the player experience. Looking ahead, more changes and fixes are expected in the upcoming weeks, further refining the game’s content. Speculation around the potential launch of Diablo 4 on the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 may also pique players’ interest as the franchise continues to evolve.

The Pokémon Trading Card Game has officially announced its upcoming expansion, Black Bolt and White Flare. Set to launch on June 6, 2025, in Japan, this dual-pack expansion is regarded as the Generation 5 counterpart to the popular Scarlet and Violet 151 set from Generation 1. While the exact timing for its international release is still undetermined, Pokémon fans can expect a delay in availability outside Japan.

In 2025, The Pokémon Company (TPC) has been busy rolling out a succession of new TCG expansions. Following the releases of Prismatic Evolutions, Journey Together, and the imminent Destined Rivals—set to debut in late May—this new expansion marks the fourth installment for the year. Black Bolt and White Flare had been teased for months, with leaks surfacing as early as January 2025, keeping dedicated fans intrigued about its eventual reveal.

This exciting new expansion will shine a spotlight on the Unova region, including all 156 Pokémon from this generation. Each Pokémon will feature either an Illustration Rare or Special Illustration Rare variant. In addition to traditional booster packs, TPC will offer a deluxe pack containing five boosters, each with seven cards, ensuring that buyers receive at least one guaranteed Illustration Rare or rarer card.

There will also be a three-pack set that comes with a bonus promotional Victini IR card. In line with TPC’s established approach, they will gradually unveil details about the new cards. So far, they’ve introduced 21 cards, highlighting the evolution lines of the Generation 5 starters: Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott.

Four EX cards have been confirmed as well—Zekrom and Reshiram, featured prominently on the booster packs, alongside Kyurem EX and Serperior EX. Moreover, Black Bolt and White Flare will bring back the Tinsel Holofoil paper, known for its striking horizontal stripes, a nostalgic element not seen since the Black and White expansion era. Individual boosters will retail for ¥1,450 (approximately $10), while the deluxe five-pack will be priced at ¥2,640 (around $18.34).

Although an international release is anticipated for summer 2025, no official confirmation has yet been provided.

Borderlands 4 players have the exciting opportunity to acquire the Hazard Pay weapon skin at no cost. To take advantage of this offer, players must sign up for 2K news and promotional messages through their SHIFT account. In addition to the weapon skin, fans will also receive Golden Keys that can be used across multiple titles in the Borderlands series. Recent gameplay reveals have given fans a detailed look at Borderlands 4, showcasing new gameplay elements, Vault Hunters, adversaries, and an array of weapons set to enhance players’ arsenals.

The game features eight main weapon manufacturers, although some familiar brands from previous titles may not return. However, the Licensed Parts system could allow some of these brands to continue in a new form, providing multiple customization options for players. Players have expressed mixed feelings about the updated user interface, particularly after observing changes during the game’s recent State of Play Deep Dive. Like earlier installments, Borderlands 4 will enable players to customize their weapons with a variety of skins.

While many skins will likely be obtainable through gameplay, the Hazard Pay skin stands out as a special reward that requires a bit of extra effort. To unlock the Hazard Pay weapon skin, players should sign into their SHIFT account and navigate to User Preferences. There, they need to check the box to receive news and promotional messages from 2K and its affiliates. Once Borderlands 4 launches, those who have signed up will gain access to the skin as well as Golden Keys, likely including keys specifically for Borderlands 4.

The anticipated launch date for Borderlands 4 has been moved up from September 23 to September 12, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the game sooner. It will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X, though details on the Switch 2 version remain pending.

Borderlands 4’s Creative Director, Graeme Tiggins, has announced that the new installment in the popular looter-shooter series will not include Mayhem Modifiers. Tiggins has expressed his disappointment with this mechanic, describing it as adding “little wrinkles to enemies” without introducing truly punishing effects.

This decision signals a significant shift for the franchise as it moves forward. The upcoming Borderlands game will introduce several changes aimed at enhancing the overall experience.

One of the most notable new features is the “ordinance” system for grenades and heavy weapons, which will move away from the traditional reliance on ammunition. Additionally, players can expect a new planet to explore, as well as an adjustment to the drop rates for in-game weapons and gear, making it more challenging to obtain Legendary items.

Borderlands 4 aims to excite fans with several updates, including early gameplay teasers. The Gameplay Deep Dive trailer showcased two of the new Vault Hunters, Vex the Siren and Rafa the Exo-Soldier, giving players a glimpse of their unique abilities.

While fans were accustomed to the various modifiers present in Borderlands 3’s Mayhem Mode, which ramped up difficulty with different enemy attributes and offered exclusive gear, Tiggins’ comments indicate that a new approach will be taken to ensure engaging combat. In addition to gameplay changes, Gearbox is set to unveil a fresh storyline, transporting players away from Pandora to the war-torn world of Kairos.

The new antagonist, The Timekeeper, will play a pivotal role in the game’s narrative as players seek to conquer this new realm. Borderlands 4 is set to launch on September 12, promising a wealth of content and innovations that aim to satisfy both seasoned players and newcomers alike.

Recent leaks indicate that Natlan will not see any map expansions in Version 5.7, with the much-anticipated Mare Jivari set to be released in Version 5.8. This news comes from a credible source within the Genshin Impact community, who highlighted a growing sense of dissatisfaction among players regarding Natlan—many perceive it as a step back compared to Fontaine. The concerns revolve around two main issues: the potential for power creep and prolonged periods of content drought. Natlan debuted with an expansive map in Version 5.0, allowing players to explore unique tribal cultures such as Nanatzcayan, Huitztlan, and Meztli, all centered around Saurian abilities.

However, subsequent updates have failed to deliver the expected content. Version 5.1 opted out of a map expansion, focusing instead on the Archon Quest, while Version 5.2 introduced Ochkanatlan, which has been praised as one of the best zones in the game. Following that, players faced a content drought stretched between Versions 5.2 and 5.5, a trend that appears set to repeat. Looking ahead to Version 5.6, players are curious about potential updates based on leaked information and early reveals.

The absence of a content expansion in Version 5.7 suggests that Natlan may struggle with another period of inactivity before Mare Jivari’s introduction. Additionally, this implies that Natlan is unlikely to host a Summer Event this year, contrasting with the more expansive events seen in Fontaine and Sumeru. While Mare Jivari will conclude the Pyroculi and Pyro Sigils storyline, there remains a slim chance that a temporary zone could be created for the Summer Event. However, Natlan’s shift from tradition does raise questions about the alignment of new content with seasonal events.

Despite the initial excitement, the community feels a lull from Natlan, with Genshin Impact steering towards new areas. Versions 5.6 and 5.7 are anticipated to release on May 7 and June 18, 2025, respectively, as the game transitions away from the Pyro Nation.

Nintendo has initiated legal proceedings against the accessory maker Genki for showcasing a replica of the Switch 2 at CES 2025. This lawsuit arises from Genki’s promotion of accessories related to the Switch 2, which occurred prior to Nintendo’s official console reveal. Nintendo’s legal team demands that Genki halt all advertising regarding the Switch and Switch 2 accessories. The court documents filed by Nintendo allege that Genki has committed trademark infringement, false advertising, and unfair competition.

These claims stem from Genki’s assertions about the peripherals it intended to sell for the yet-to-be-launched Switch 2. At CES 2025, Genki attracted attention by presenting what it touted as an “exact” replica of the Switch 2. This replica aligned with various leaks circulating about the system, including features like the magnetic Joy-Con 2 attachment system. Due to the considerable buzz that Genki generated with its Switch 2 replica, Nintendo’s legal representatives visited the company’s booth at CES to confront them.

Following this encounter, Genki abruptly closed its booth a day before the trade show officially ended. The situation escalated when Walmart’s listings for the upcoming Switch 2 briefly went offline, adding to the drama surrounding the console’s launch. The legal confrontation reached a critical juncture when Nintendo filed its case in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. It details Genki’s actions, including a “Genki Direct” video released on the same day Nintendo showcased the Switch 2’s release date, leading to significant viewing discrepancies between the two presentations.

Nintendo has requested that Genki cease all promotional activities and sales of its accessories related to the Switch or Switch 2. As the case awaits judicial approval, it remains to be seen how the legal battle will unfold.

In Patch 11.1.5, World of Warcraft has made significant changes to enhance the Nightfall event by doubling all Flame’s Radiance reputation gains. This adjustment aims to help players increase their Renown more efficiently and unlock new rewards.

Additionally, vendors now provide previously missing weapon and shield transmogs, further enriching the gameplay experience. On April 22, with the introduction of the Nightfall scenario, players can engage in an hourly event against Queen Ansurek’s loyalists while fulfilling daily quests in Hallowfall and Azj-Kahet.

By boosting their Renown with the Flame’s Radiance faction, players can acquire cool transmogs, toys, mounts, and additional rewards. The game director has also hinted at forthcoming UI and add-on modifications planned for Patch 11.1.7, Legacy of Arathor.

According to a community post by WoW manager Kaivax on May 2, the recent hotfix expanded on the changes, including a significant reputation gain increase from daily and weekly quests and first-time completions. The addition of weapons and shields matching the Arathi sets allows players to exchange Radiant Emblems of Service for powerful gear while completing their new transmogs.

Prior to these enhancements, building reputation with the Flame’s Radiance was slow and challenging, requiring considerable grinding for most players. Despite these improvements, there are still some issues plaguing the Nightfall event.

While new weapons have been added to vendors and several major bugs have been resolved, players continue to face UI glitch challenges and invincible monsters causing disruptions during daily quests. Furthermore, eight out of ten titles intended for Renown progression are still unavailable.

Fans hope for ongoing fixes to enhance this aspect of the game. Fortunately, players can look forward to more engaging activities in the near future, including the Season 2 Turbo Boost starting May 13 and Horrific Visions Revisited on May 20, with an exciting upcoming update, Patch 11.1.7, promising even more content.

Mafia: The Old Country is set to unveil a new gameplay trailer on May 8, creating excitement among fans. On that same day, developer Hangar 13 will host a panel at PAX East, where they promise to share more details about the game.

It is anticipated that the official release date will also be announced on May 8, with previous leaks suggesting a potential launch in early August 2025. This upcoming trailer will provide the most extensive look at the gameplay to date.

Hangar 13 plans to delve into the franchise’s history and discuss how Mafia: The Old Country fits into it during their panel at PAX East. The fourth installment of the Mafia series was first revealed at Gamescom in August 2024.

Despite a confirmed release date still being awaited, 2K and Hangar 13 have indicated that they are targeting a summer 2025 launch. With spring now at its halfway mark, an official date is essential for meeting this goal.

For those eager to immerse themselves in the Mafia universe before the release, exploring earlier titles can enhance the experience. The gameplay trailer on May 8 will be the first substantial insight into Mafia: The Old Country, as previous teasers primarily focused on its narrative through rendered cutscenes rather than actual gameplay mechanics.

The trailer will debut at 11 AM ET / 8 AM PT / 4 PM BST via the official @MafiaGame YouTube channel, coinciding with the opening of PAX East. Interestingly, an early announcement hinted that Mafia: The Old Country could be released on August 8, aligning with 2K’s summer2025 release strategy.

Following the trailer, the PAX East panel, starting at 2 PM ET / 11 AM PT / 7 PM BST, will include insights from key developers, and attendees may receive exclusive rewards. For those unable to attend, the panel will be accessible online.

With the delay of GTA 6, Mafia: The Old Country is poised to become 2K’s flagship open-world action-adventure title for 2025.