Month: June 2025

In response to community concerns over high microtransaction prices, 1047 Games, the developer of Splitgate 2, has made significant adjustments to its pricing structure, cutting costs by 50%. CEO Ian Proulx addressed player frustrations directly, highlighting the studio’s commitment to community feedback and announcing refund policies. Splitgate 2, a free-to-play shooter launched on June 6, introduced a new Battle Royale mode, captivating fans initially. However, excitement soon gave way to disappointment, as many players found cosmetic bundles priced at over $140.

Player backlash was fueled by earlier comments from Proulx, where he criticized industry trends while promoting an expensive in-game economy, leading to feelings of disillusionment regarding the game’s direction. In a proactive approach to the mounting criticism, Proulx posted on social media acknowledging the concerns. He reaffirmed the studio’s community-first philosophy and announced a 50% price reduction on the Nano Swarm bundle alongside cuts across other in-game items. The announcement included plans for refunds of Splitcoin for players who had previously made purchases at the higher prices.

The quick response from 1047 Games has been appreciated by the community, with many players expressing their gratitude and optimism about the game’s future. This timely adjustment earned Splitgate 2 a wave of positive comments, with players noting that such responsiveness builds trust and enhances their commitment to the game. Players have praised the enjoyable gameplay, highlighting how Splitgate 2 revitalizes fun in the FPS genre, which they felt had become stale. As of now, the game holds over 10,700 reviews on Steam, with a 64% positive rating.

Should 1047 Games continue to engage meaningfully with the community, this score may improve. Moreover, the studio has already unveiled a roadmap for Splitgate 2’s future, hinting at exciting developments ahead. The game promises fast-paced portal gunplay, diverse maps, and cooperative gameplay modes aimed at maximizing competitive fun.

Zenless Zone Zero has officially introduced Ukinami Yuzuha as the first playable character for the upcoming Version 2.1 update, marking her as an S-Rank unit and the inaugural member of the new “Spook Shack” faction. Yuzuha is categorized as a Physical Support unit, adding an intriguing dynamic to the game’s character roster.

The recent Version 2.0 update, which launched with great enthusiasm, featured the introduction of the new Waifei Peninsula district, alongside three additional characters. This update coincided with the game’s first anniversary, drawing players to the beautifully crafted, Chinese-themed environment and providing a host of refreshing content, including new character skins.

The excitement doesn’t stop there; HoYoverse continues to unveil teasers of characters before their formal entry into the game. Yuzuha’s character reveal comes as part of a trend in which HoYoverse presents characters ahead of their official launches.

For instance, the spotlight character of Version 2.0, Yixuan, first appeared as an NPC during Version 1.7. This strategy builds anticipation and engages the fanbase effectively, reminiscent of viral marketing efforts seen previously with characters like Burnice.

As Season 2 kicks off, the anticipation surrounding Zenless Zone Zero continues to grow. Early details provided by HoYoverse indicate that Yuzuha will serve as a merchant from Porcelume Heights, reinforcing her unique role within the game.

Additionally, she is expected to be part of a broader character addition strategy, which typically features two new S-Rank units. With the Version 2.1 update anticipated to launch on July 16, it’s clear that Zenless Zone Zero aims to sustain its momentum following the successful Version 2.0 release, which also included numerous anniversary rewards for players.

As the game progresses into its second season, the community eagerly awaits the additional content and characters to enhance the gaming experience.

Pokemon TCG Pocket’s filter system might be revealing hints about future cards, particularly regarding higher HP statistics. The current HP filter is capped at 300, which suggests that more resilient, tankier cards are on the horizon.

Fans speculate that high-HP cards, with attributes similar to Pokemon-GX, could be gradually introduced in upcoming expansions. For those unfamiliar with Pokemon TCG Pocket, the game allows players to search for cards using various filters, including HP, ATK, and Ability.

Recently, some players have noted an intriguing detail within these filters that may indicate the direction of future releases. One Reddit user pointed out that the maximum listed HP of 300 might suggest a trend towards introducing cards capable of withstanding significantly more damage than currently available.

Presently, the highest HP card is Venusaur ex, which can absorb up to 190 damage, or 220 when equipped with a Leaf Cape. If the HP filter is indicative of upcoming trends, future cards could push this limit further, potentially introducing cards with HP beyond 300, reaching as high as 330 or even 350.

Such developments could dramatically alter the metagame, making high-damage Pokemon a more prominent feature. Fans have begun theorizing which cards might eventually hit the HP cap, with candidates like Wailord ex and Blissey ex, boasting HP of 250 and 300, respectively, in the physical TCG.

However, it seems more likely that Pokemon-GX variants will be the next major addition. In the physical TCG, these cards debuted in the Sun & Moon expansion and were known for their enhanced power.

For the time being, it’s believed that these high-HP cards will serve as stall options, akin to Snorlax’s current role in the game. While the introduction of such cards could enhance gameplay, fans express concern that without effective counters, the game balance could be affected.

Developers are expected to handle the gradual increase in average HP carefully to maintain balance and competitiveness in the game. Additionally, expect to dive into the Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket, coming soon for iOS and Android.

Players will have the chance to open two free booster packs daily, collecting both nostalgic and new cards that are exclusive to this game. Keep an eye out for immersive cards that promise to enhance your experience, bringing you closer to the vibrant world of Pokemon.

IO Interactive (IOI) is committed to supporting Hitman: World of Assassination for the foreseeable future. This support will bring more celebrity cameos through Elusive Contracts, alongside the introduction of a brand-new co-op mode. Currently, players can engage with Mads Mikkelsen’s Le Chiffre until July 6, adding a layer of excitement for dedicated gamers.

IOI’s ongoing commitment to Hitman: World of Assassination is clear, as company officials have hinted at further updates that will enhance the game experience. The franchise has been active for nearly a decade, starting with the first installment of the Hitman reboot trilogy in 2016. This was followed by Hitman 2 in 2018 and Hitman 3 in 2021, culminating in the unification of all three games into Hitman: World of Assassination in 2023.

Continuous support from IOI has included a range of limited-time content such as Elusive Targets, Escalation Contracts, and seasonal events. The stealth gameplay remains a hallmark of the series, challenging players to strategize their movements carefully. IOI Senior Level Designer Martin Ansdal confirmed during the 2025 Summer Game Fest that the newly added James Bond crossover featuring Le Chiffre will not be the last celebrity cameo.

He expressed his intention to maintain ambitious plans for future content, though specific details remain under wraps. In an exciting development, IOI has revealed that one upcoming update will introduce a co-op mode, marking a milestone for the series. This feature, which expands gameplay opportunities, is still in early development and lacks a definitive release date.

Players can also look forward to new challenges, including the recently launched Season of the High-Stakes, with the deadline to eliminate Le Chiffre looming. This combination of updates ensures that Hitman: World of Assassination remains relevant and engaging for fans in the near future.

Developers have been cautious about relocating the Fallout franchise outside of the United States due to its distinctively American setting. The series, rooted in a 1950s American aesthetic infused with a nuclear twist, has gained prominence for its unique atmosphere. Currently, it seems improbable that Fallout will venture beyond American borders soon.

Bethesda developers have openly discussed the franchise’s potential to move away from its traditional U.S. backdrop. Since its inception in 1997, every Fallout game has taken place in the United States. While some fans advocate for a new setting, developers remain uncertain about how well the game would adapt to international locations.

Fallout co-creator Tim Cain recently provided fans an update regarding the franchise’s first two entries. At the Summer Game Fest, Bethesda’s creative director Jonathan Rush and lead producer Bill LaCoste weighed in on the possibility of relocating Fallout. Rush mentioned, “I would never say never, but I will say probably not… A big part of the spirit of Fallout is that sense of America.

That’s kind of pulsing through all the stories and the scenery and the set dressing.” He suggested that relocating the story could challenge the franchise’s essence. LaCoste echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the intrigue derived from the game being told from a distinctly American perspective.

He remarked, “I think being told through our lens keeps people mystified about what else is happening across the world.” Although last year’s successful Fallout: London mod demonstrated the potential for a similar vibe in different locales, developing a full game remains a significantly different challenge. It has now been a decade since the release of Fallout 4, and a sequel does not appear to be on the horizon.

Bethesda is currently focused on The Elder Scrolls 6, and typically works on one game at a time. A shift in priorities would be necessary for fans to see Fallout 5 anytime soon. With the prolonged wait, many hope for updates in the near future.

Build a Rocket Boy has made a public request for gamers to refrain from playing MindsEye before its official release. This appeal stems from the concern that some copies of the game have arrived earlier than expected, allowing select players to access it ahead of time. The development team wants to ensure that everyone experiences the game simultaneously and in its intended state. They acknowledge that these early players could encounter existing issues that don’t reflect the final product.

Recent reports from early copy reviewers indicate that MindsEye may need improvements, highlighting problems like frame rate drops and blurriness, along with a game-breaking bug. While these concerns have sparked dissent, the co-CEO of Build a Rocket Boy has contested these negative impressions, suggesting they may have been exaggerated. Despite the criticism, the company remains optimistic about an upcoming day-one patch, designed to address many of these issues and improve the overall gaming experience. MindsEye’s launch is anticipated on June 10, and players are encouraged to wait for this official date to avoid an unsatisfactory experience.

The developers are eager for players to explore the story together and to enjoy a polished version of the game right from the start. With its unique concept arising from the former president of Rockstar North, MindsEye promises to transport players to a “near future” setting in Redrock City. With strong ties to the Grand Theft Auto franchise, excitement around the game continues to build, particularly with its integration into the greater Everywhere Metaverse. Ultimately, players should reserve judgment until the game officially releases alongside its day-one patch.

This approach will ensure a more rewarding experience for all players.

The recently released DLC, Lies of P: Overture, explores the world preceding the events of the Puppet Frenzy. This expansion not only introduces new weapons and difficulty options but also promises an engaging prequel experience for fans. Announced at the Summer Game Fest 2025, the Overture DLC for Lies of P, a critically acclaimed Soulslike game, is now available.

Lies of P is often highlighted as one of the best in the genre outside of FromSoftware’s creations. Although the announcement of the DLC came soon after its successful release, fans have eagerly awaited years to play this expansion. Lies of P: Overture offers a glimpse into the world before the chaos, allowing players to understand the context of the Puppet Frenzy.

The gameplay is expected to retain the challenging combat that players have come to appreciate in the base game. Additionally, developers have teased a intriguing ‘freaky’ zoo level featured in the DLC, enhancing its allure. While it retails for $29.99, those interested may find difficulty accessing it on Steam or the PlayStation Store immediately, as updates are still in progress.

The trailer for Lies of P: Overture showcases protagonist Pinocchio battling formidable monstrosities with a mix of familiar and new weaponry, including a bow and Wolverine-like claws. This trailer reinforces the intense, stylish action that fans loved in the base game. However, the introduction of new difficulty options has sparked mixed reactions among the community.

While some applaud this inclusion as a means of broadening accessibility, others feel it undermines the game’s challenge. It’s important to note that Lies of P: Overture is merely a chapter in the ongoing narrative of the series. The game’s conclusion hints at a sequel, which will likely diverge from the original story.

Although Lies of P 2 may be several years away, Overture is set to keep fans engaged until the next installment arrives.

Capcom has officially announced the release of Resident Evil Requiem, also known as Resident Evil 9, set to launch on February 27, 2026, for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X. Starring Grace Ashcroft, the game will explore the decaying remnants of Raccoon City, a beloved location from the franchise. Fans can expect further details at Gamescom in August. The Resident Evil series has enjoyed immense popularity, making it a lucrative venture for Capcom.

However, there has been a noticeable hiatus since 2023, with no new releases in 2024 or 2025. Despite this break, rumors suggest that Capcom has significant plans for the franchise, beginning with Resident Evil 9. This title is expected to be the first of a new series of annual releases, rejuvenating interest in the series. A recent leak from a credible Resident Evil insider revealed not only the main character but also some scrapped concepts for the game.

The trailer introduces players to Grace Ashcroft, an FBI agent and the daughter of Alyssa Ashcroft from Resident Evil: Outbreak. Grace is sent to investigate her mother’s murder at a hotel and encounters chilling events, including a mysterious illness and lurking monsters. The mention of Raccoon City and the iconic Police Department hints at a nostalgic yet terrifying environment. Though the trailer keeps many details under wraps, Resident Evil 9 is confirmed to be playable at Gamescom.

The event, scheduled for August 19, is anticipated to provide a more comprehensive look at gameplay mechanics and features. Speculation surrounds the potential for an open-world format, though no details have been confirmed regarding whether the game will employ a first-person or third-person perspective. Promisingly, insider AestheticGamer hints at the return of beloved character Leon S. Kennedy, adding to the excitement surrounding the game.

Fractured Blooms is an intriguing new horror game from Serenity Forge that merges the aesthetics of anime with the unsettling atmosphere reminiscent of Silent Hill. In this game, players assume the role of Angie, who finds herself trapped in a time loop.

What begins as a farming simulation takes a dark turn as psychological horror unfolds, pushing players to manage resources while navigating disturbing events. Developed by Serenity Forge, a name familiar to horror game fans for their work on Doki Doki Literature Club Plus!, Fractured Blooms channels a similar twist from a seemingly innocent premise into a deeper psychological experience.

Although not created by Team Salvato, the game shares thematic elements that may resonate with fans of that title. The recently unveiled release trailer serves as an entry point into this unsettling world, first presenting what appears to be a wholesome farming simulator akin to Stardew Valley.

As the trailer progresses, however, the tone shifts dramatically. What initially seems benign—simple tasks like slicing a tomato—transforms into something grotesque, with images of blood and violence emerging in a serene garden setting.

The environment begins to fracture, evoking imagery often found in Silent Hill games as reality distorts and grotesque anomalies emerge. Compellingly, this chilling narrative draws inspiration from a true story, adding an extra layer of intrigue.

In terms of gameplay, Serenity Forge has revealed that players will navigate Angie’s confined world, characterized as “soft and still.” Managing resources—including food—will be essential, as the gameplay progressively introduces unsettling changes each day. Players’ choices hold significance, with the ominous reminder that the world “always remembers.”

While a release date has yet to be announced, players can wishlist Fractured Blooms on Steam, where the game already has listed system requirements. The minimum specs are manageable, with an Nvidia GTX 1060 or similar graphics card recommended, while a more capable graphics card will be necessary for optimal performance.

At the Summer Game Fest, Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio announced that Project Century is officially titled Stranger Than Heaven, revealing an exciting new trailer showcasing gameplay. This new title is set across various time periods and appears to stand apart from the Like a Dragon series, though specific connections have not been established. As of now, no release window has been disclosed.

The 2025 Summer Game Fest showcased numerous game announcements and special guests, including legendary developer Hideo Kojima and Hollywood star Mads Mikkelsen. Among the highlights was the surprise drop of Lies of P: Overture, a prequel expansion to the popular Soulslike game. The event culminated with the highly anticipated reveal of Resident Evil Requiem, generating significant excitement among attendees.

Fans of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio also received fresh insights into Stranger Than Heaven, the developer’s upcoming project. Earlier at The Game Awards 2024, Ryu Ga Gotoku first unveiled Project Century. With its rebranding to Stranger Than Heaven, the summer event featured a trailer that explored the game’s rich setting and dynamic gameplay.

Players can expect to traverse environments set in 1915 and 1943, indicating a narrative that shifts across different historical periods. While a release date has not been committed to just yet, there’s optimism among fans, given the game’s polished presentation and the studio’s track record for swift development cycles. As anticipated from a Ryu Ga Gotoku title, combat will play a crucial role in Stranger Than Heaven.

However, it promises to differentiate itself from the Like a Dragon series by introducing the option to either eliminate foes or show mercy during encounters. The depth of the game’s narrative remains unclear, but long-time fans are eager for both familiar elements and innovative features upon its release. With the studio’s growing reputation, Stranger Than Heaven has the potential to further elevate Ryu Ga Gotoku’s already impressive portfolio.