Month: June 2025

The Xbox Series X/S has recently achieved a significant milestone by surpassing the sales of the Nintendo 64, with reported sales reaching 32.98 million units. Since their launch in 2020, the Xbox Series has earned a number of accolades, marking its presence in the gaming market.

The Nintendo 64, originally released in 1996, is known for its groundbreaking 3D gaming experiences, with iconic titles such as Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time driving its popularity. Over its lifetime, the N64 sold approximately 32.93 million units.

In terms of competitive standing, the Xbox Series X/S is now looking ahead to surpass the Sega Genesis, which sold 34.06 million units. The next challenge will be the Super Nintendo, with sales of 49.10 million.

However, while the sales figures may appear impressive, it is important to note that the N64 is one of Nintendo’s less successful consoles, surpassed by the NES, Switch, and others. Microsoft’s own Xbox 360 remains its best-selling console, with 85.73 million units sold, followed by the Xbox One at 57.96 million.

Interestingly, the Xbox Series X/S has also seen improved success in Japan compared to its predecessor, the Xbox One, which struggled with approximately 120,000 units sold in the region. The current generation has sold around 680,000 units in Japan, potentially boosted by an increase in available JRPGs on Xbox.

However, it still trails the Xbox 360’s sales in Japan, which totaled about 1.66 million units. Despite these gains, the PlayStation 2 remains the undisputed champion in console sales with a staggering worldwide total, far surpassing the best of both Xbox and PlayStation.

The PlayStation 4 and PS5 have sold 117 million and 76 million units, respectively, leaving the PS2’s record intact for the foreseeable future.

A former Sony executive has disclosed that the company had considered reviving the classic PlayStation 1 game, Jumping Flash. The game entered early development for a potential re-release on PlayStation VR but ultimately did not progress beyond this stage. Jumping Flash was a notable title that significantly contributed to defining the landscape of 3D gaming in the early days of the PlayStation.

Shuhei Yoshida, a former executive at Sony Interactive Entertainment, shared the insights regarding Jumping Flash. He mentioned that while the company had plans to bring back this quirky platformer, which holds historical significance, those plans were ultimately abandoned. Yoshida also touched on other franchises that have made the transition to PlayStation VR, highlighting the vast library of titles originating from the original PlayStation.

The PS1 is renowned for its extensive collection of games, many of which have evolved into major franchises over time. It played a crucial role in revolutionizing the video game industry and becoming a formidable competitor to Nintendo during an era when Nintendo was the dominant player in gaming. Notable franchises that emerged from the PS1 era include Gran Turismo, Silent Hill, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, and Crash Bandicoot, among others.

Although many of these titles have had enduring success and multiple remakes, some significant games like Jumping Flash have remained largely forgotten. While fans were hopeful about the game’s revival, it appears Sony ultimately passed on the opportunity, as revealed by Yoshida. Jumping Flash, although not the most widely recognized PS1 title, was among the first true 3D platformers that allowed for full movement in a 3D world, predating the release of Super Mario 64.

Despite the long-standing appreciation for classic games, Jumping Flash did not make the final lineup for revival. In further developments, fans are looking forward to the arrival of Lumines Arise on the PS5 in 2025, which will include optional compatibility with PS VR2.

The Nintendo Switch 2 has recently been compared to the Xbox Series S in terms of power and capabilities by a game developer, solidifying previous claims about its performance. Takuto Edagawa, a producer from Koei Tecmo, discussed the Switch 2’s raw computing power in an interview. While he noted that it’s challenging to make direct comparisons, he indicated that the Switch 2 is closer in power to the Xbox Series S than the PlayStation 4.

This insight is notable, especially given that Edagawa has experience developing a game specifically for the new system. Sales for the Nintendo Switch 2 have exceeded expectations, breaking a Nintendo record shortly after its launch. In less than a week, the console sold 3.5 million units, indicating its potential to match or even surpass the success of its predecessor.

With claims that the Switch 2 possesses ten times the graphics performance of the original model, it is clear that it represents a significant leap in technology for Nintendo. The technical specifications reveal some intriguing differences between the Switch 2 and the Xbox Series S. While the Xbox Series S boasts a faster CPU with almost one extra teraflop of performance and a GPU clock speed of 1565 MHz compared to the Switch 2’s 1007 MHz, the Switch 2 features 2GB more RAM, enhanced resolution when docked, and advanced Wi-Fi capabilities. Nintendo systems have historically been perceived as lagging behind their competitors in raw processing and graphical power.

Since the GameCube era, Nintendo consoles have relied on unique innovations, such as motion-sensing controls and portability, to capture players’ attention. With the Switch 2 showing it can stack up against a current-generation console from Microsoft, fans are likely to appreciate this newfound power and capability.

Insider information from Call of Duty expert Ghost of Hope suggests that the upcoming Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 will feature the classic TranZit and Mob of the Dead Zombies maps upon its release. These two maps initially debuted in Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, and their return has generated significant excitement among fans, particularly regarding the potential reimagining of TranZit as one of the largest maps ever designed for the franchise. Despite the enthusiasm surrounding TranZit’s revival, reactions to Mob of the Dead have been mixed. Some fans express concern, as the map previously returned as Blood of the Dead in Call of Duty: Black Ops 4, leading to ambiguity about whether its reappearance is necessary.

The narrative of Black Ops 7 unfolds a decade after Black Ops 2, fully integrating the past while introducing new challenges. According to the reveal made during the 2025 Xbox Games Showcase, David Mason returns as the protagonist, leading a specialized team against a manipulative foe that employs psychological warfare tactics. The storyline hints at the return of Raul Menendez, the villain from Black Ops 2, adding depth to the narrative. Black Ops 7 promises a co-op campaign, foundational multiplayer modes, and the much-anticipated Zombies, though detailed information remains scarce.

Fans have speculated that TranZit was briefly featured in the reveal trailer, intensifying curiosity about its modernization for Black Ops 7. Community discussions reveal desires for new original maps alongside familiar classics. While there is a palpable buzz concerning the game’s forthcoming reveal this summer, details on the round-based Zombies mode have yet to be officially confirmed. Scheduled for release later this year on multiple platforms, including PC and next-gen consoles, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 will also be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one.

Additionally, ongoing collaborations between Microsoft and Nintendo may pave the way for the franchise’s return to Nintendo platforms.

Grace Ashcroft has been revealed as the leading character in Resident Evil Requiem, bringing a wave of excitement among fans. A new image showcases detailed artwork of Grace, which has drawn favorable comparisons to other beloved characters within the franchise. Set to launch on February 26, 2026, the game will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S, with further announcements anticipated in the coming months. The introduction of Grace Ashcroft came as a surprise during the Summer Games Fest 2025, where the first trailer presented her in her role as a technical analyst for the FBI.

Tasked with investigating a series of mysterious infections and fatalities—including one at the notorious Wrenhood Hotel—Grace’s story is expected to build on the intensity and intrigue that fans have come to expect from the series. Alongside the official reveal, exciting images have surfaced, capturing Grace in various outfits, signaling a dynamic character who could resonate with fans. The new artwork, shared by Twitter user AestheticGamer, highlights Grace’s facial features and distinctive style. Departing from her office attire in the trailer, this image depicts her in casual wear, which includes jeans and an orange-brown jacket with a black hood.

Fans quickly took to social media, praising her design and pointing out similarities to past characters such as Jill Valentine, Claire Redfield, and Ada Wong. Despite initial speculations that Rose, Ethan Winters’ daughter from Resident Evil 7, would be the protagonist, fans are now eager to explore Grace’s journey. Being the daughter of Alyssa Ashcroft connects her to the franchise’s legacy, promising a narrative that intertwines the past and present. With the release date still several months away, there is plenty of anticipation for Capcom to reveal more information about potential returning characters and storylines in this new installment.

In a recent update for Call of Duty: Warzone, developer Raven Software addressed a bug that unintentionally placed some players at a lower rank than they should have been in Season 4’s Ranked Play. Although the update aimed to rectify this issue, it inadvertently disrupted the leaderboard system by awarding players with massive Skill Rating (SR) boosts, sometimes as high as 5,000 points.

This sudden influx of SR allowed several players to bypass the usual ranking system and achieve placements in the top 250 leaderboard without the typical grind. The update, which went live on June 11, was intended to assist those affected by the ranking bug.

However, it sparked concerns among the player community about the integrity of Ranked Play. Critics highlighted that players reset to lower ranks, such as Bronze, now had an easier path to attain higher ranks, which led to frustrations being voiced on social media.

One player described the update as a “horrible fix,” pointing out the discrepancies it created. This incident has reignited criticism of Warzone’s existing anti-cheat measures.

Many players took to comment sections to voice their concerns, claiming that the top 250 leaderboard is plagued by cheaters and boosters. Some even proposed the idea of a paid version of the game, as long as it included a robust anti-cheat system.

While Raven Software continues to address performance and stability issues in both Warzone and the upcoming Black Ops 6, players are already turning their attention to future developments, particularly Black Ops 7. With its recent announcement, excitement among the community is growing, indicating a potential shift in priorities for the development team as they move forward.

The Pokemon Company has partnered with The Hershey Company to launch a new chocolate collection featuring iconic Kanto Pokémon. This exciting collaboration will debut this summer, showcasing a variety of chocolate products that are sure to delight fans of the franchise. The collection will include full-size chocolate bars adorned with 12 unique designs and 18 designs on snack-size bars. Additionally, all 151 Kanto Pokémon will be featured on the foil wrappers of Hershey’s Kisses, making this a nostalgic treat for fans and collectors alike.

Many longtime Pokémon fans remember the candy-packed shelves of the 90s, often showcasing characters like Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle. For those eager for more Pokémon content, the next game in the franchise, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, is set to release on October 16, 2025. This sequel to the beloved Pokémon X and Y games is the second in the Pokémon Legends series and follows the 2022 release of Arceus. Pre-orders for Pokémon Legends: Z-A are already available, and trainers who reserve their copy will receive a free starter plushie as an added incentive.

In addition to the chocolate collection, fans of Bulbasaur and Pikachu can look forward to themed accessories from Loungefly. The collaboration between The Pokémon Company and Hershey’s also allows die-hard trainers to keep track of their Hershey’s Kisses collection on the Hershey’s website. Furthermore, there’s an opportunity to win a limited-edition Collector’s Case, perfect for storing collected Kisses. Lastly, Pokémon fans can also anticipate the US appearance of the Pokémon Fossil Museum, which features life-sized replicas of Pokémon skeletons compared to real-world fossils.

While this exciting event may be some time away, it promises to educate and engage Pokémon enthusiasts with a unique blend of science and nostalgia.

LEGO Fortnite may soon introduce a new mode called “Expeditions,” possibly accessed through bus stations. Recent developments from Epic Games indicate the addition of AI versions of characters Noir and Slurp Leviathan in LEGO Fortnite’s Brick Life. This follows the conclusion of Fortnite’s Galactic Battle mini-season, which featured Star Wars characters, locations, and items.

The newly added AI NPCs utilize similar technology as Darth Vader, who was part of the Galactic Battle mini-season. However, unlike Vader, players cannot engage in conversation with Noir and Slurp Leviathan; they simply provide unique reactions to various in-game occurrences. When Darth Vader was introduced, players could interact and include him in their parties, adding a different layer of gaming experience.

Leaks suggest that Expeditions is designed as a co-op experience that players can engage in together, enhancing gameplay diversity. According to leaker Loolo_WRLD, this mode, currently code-named “Mars,” may arrive with the forthcoming 36.10 update. Gamers might also have the option to adjust the difficulty of these expeditions, allowing for customized challenges.

In addition to LEGO Fortnite, Fortnite OG may undergo significant changes as leakers hint at the removal of bots from standard game modes. Currently, lobbies consist of both human players and bots, a practice that began following the introduction of skill-based matchmaking. If the bots are indeed removed, Epic Games may replace them with a casual version featuring a mix of 12 players and 88 bots.

These potential adjustments signal Epic Games’ ongoing efforts to refine the gaming experience based on player feedback, especially following the recent removal of two ranked versions of Fortnite OG. Despite some challenges, many fans remain hopeful about the future direction of Fortnite.

Pre-orders for the highly anticipated Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 are speculated to begin on June 20. Reports indicate that some GameStop stores have been notified about the pre-order start date, which coincides with expectations of new information about the game being revealed on the same day. Fans of the franchise have been eager for details since only a short cinematic trailer was released during the Xbox Games Showcase, showing limited footage of the upcoming title. The timing of the pre-orders aligns with earlier theories suggesting a major reveal for Black Ops 7.

Following the game’s announcement on June 8, keen-eyed fans noted a hidden clue in the key art and trailer suggesting a significant update would be shared on June 20. This has intensified speculation surrounding the release of another trailer that may include gameplay footage and additional details about the game, making the next week crucial for eager fans. In a related note, the competitive landscape of Call of Duty: Warzone has recently seen an update aimed at fixing a Ranked Play bug, resulting in unexpected changes and mixed reactions within the community. Meanwhile, the buzz around Black Ops 7 continues to grow, fueled by user-generated content, including an official poster leaked by a Twitter user.

Despite only one cinematic trailer released thus far, excitement for Black Ops 7 appears to surpass that of its predecessor. The trailer amassed over 28 million views within 24 hours, significantly higher than the 19 million views accumulated by the trailer for Black Ops 6 over a whole year. Although a release date remains unconfirmed, Activision has indicated that the new title will be available on older consoles like PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, which has led to ongoing discussions about the implications for the future of the franchise.

Ready or Not is set to launch on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S on July 15, featuring full cross-play support across platforms. Pre-orders for the console version begin at $49.99 and include exclusive pre-order bonus weapons.

Alongside this launch, a free update will introduce new content such as two single-player missions, an additional weapon, engine enhancements, bug fixes, and much more. Developed by VOID Interactive, Ready or Not was initially released for Steam in December 2023.

The game immerses players in the role of a SWAT team operating in the fictional city of Los Sueños. Players can engage in a range of realistic breach-and-clear scenarios in the city’s most perilous locations, either solo or in online co-op mode.

As the commander of the LSPD SWAT team, players are tasked with tactical planning, executing missions, and preparing their arsenal for action. Fans interested in tactical shooters will appreciate what Ready or Not brings to the genre.

The new trailer confirms that the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S versions will be available on July 15, with pre-orders now accepted for the Standard Edition at $49.99. For those seeking additional content, a Deluxe Edition at $69.99 includes the base game, exclusive pre-order weapons, Home Invasion DLC, Dark Waters DLC, an unannounced third DLC pack, and the official soundtrack.

PC players will also receive the pre-order bonuses through the major “Stories from Los Sueños” update, which incorporates the new PS5 and Xbox Series X|S features. This update will add two fresh missions for both single-player and online co-op play, supplementing the existing 18 missions currently available.

Additionally, players can look forward to the new TRPL Pepper Ball Pistol, revamped training mode, and a difficulty selector. The developers have promised various engine updates and bug fixes to enhance overall gameplay stability and user experience.