Big Announcements Expected for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 on May 15

Warhorse Studios has officially announced that the much-anticipated expansion for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, titled Brushes with Death, will be released on May 15. This addition is poised to be the largest downloadable content (DLC) the game has seen so far, offering fans a substantial new experience. Since its release in February, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 has received critical acclaim for its dedication to realism and notable improvements over its predecessor.

The game’s popularity continues to soar, with sales recently surpassing the three million mark, driven by positive feedback from players and reviewers. On social media platform X, Warhorse Studios confirmed the release date and shared a captivating trailer for Brushes with Death. The trailer features Henry of Skalitz, the protagonist, engaging in a tense encounter with a bound figure in a forest setting.

While it raises numerous questions, fans are eager to dive into the new content that awaits them. While players have enjoyed a variety of free content since the game’s launch, Brushes with Death will be the first paid expansion. Pricing details have not yet been disclosed, and it is not currently available for pre-order.

Fans are encouraged to stay alert as the release date draws near. Looking ahead, there are plans for even more DLC for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 throughout the year. The post-launch roadmap revealed earlier this year mentioned two additional expansions set for release in 2025, titled Legacy of the Forge and Mysteria Ecclesia.

Like Brushes with Death, specific details about these upcoming expansions remain under wraps, but they will all be included in the game’s expansion pass, ensuring a wealth of content for dedicated players.

New Final Fantasy Character Cards Unveiled in Magic: The Gathering Expansion

Warning: The following article contains MAJOR SPOILERS from various Final Fantasy games. A month ahead of its official launch, Magic: The Gathering has unveiled exciting character cards from its upcoming Final Fantasy crossover expansion set. The newly revealed Magic character cards include Hildibrand Manderville and Zenos yae Galvus from Final Fantasy 14, alongside fresh artwork for beloved series characters such as Tifa, Squall, Kefka, and Sephiroth. Final Fantasy is the latest addition to Magic: The Gathering’s expanding Universes Beyond saga, which already features cards from popular franchises like Assassin’s Creed and The Lord of the Rings.

As the 105th overall expansion for the renowned tabletop card game, Wizards of the Coast has designated the Final Fantasy set for use in Standard MTG play and draft modes. The expansion will incorporate various places and noteworthy events from the mainline Final Fantasy series, and it will also feature Commander Decks with iconic heroes like Cloud and Y’shtola. Pre-orders for this anticipated set are available through retail platforms like Amazon and at local card shops. In addition to the character cards, renowned Final Fantasy 14 composer Masayoshi Soken has expressed interest in potentially integrating a rhythm-style minigame within the MMORPG.

Ahead of the set’s June 13 launch, MTG has revealed additional cards to keep fans engaged. Both Zenos yae Galvus and Hildibrand Manderville will be featured as legendary creature cards. Hildibrand, known for his charming role in Final Fantasy 14’s beloved quest series, offers a Zombie creature token that can be activated with his Adventure effect using two Black Lands. Zenos, the formidable antagonist from the Stormblood expansion, is a double-faced card, transforming into the fearsome dragon Shinryu after defeating a chosen opponent.

Shinryu brings unique gameplay mechanics to multiplayer Commander matches, although it may attract unwanted attention from rival players. While Cloud and Sephiroth were earlier confirmed in the Final Fantasy starter kit, their legendary card variants were teased through standees at PAX East, alongside characters like Squall, Kefka, and Tifa. Each card reveal was accompanied by promotions for an upcoming MTG: Final Fantasy panel led by Final Fantasy 16 voice actor Ben Starr. Fans are eagerly awaiting the unveiling of additional characters in this exciting MTG expansion.

Mafia: The Old Country Offers a Unique Experience Unlike Previous Installments in One Major Aspect

Mafia: The Old Country is set to depart from the open-world format, focusing instead on a narrative-driven experience. This game is set in early-1900s Sicily and will follow a linear storytelling approach that emphasizes plot over exploration. Scheduled for release on August 8, the base game will be priced at $49.99, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to many AAA titles on the market today.

As the long-anticipated sequel to 2016’s Mafia 3, Mafia: The Old Country was officially unveiled during Gamescom in August 2024, roughly two years after Hangar 13’s general manager, Roman Hladik, announced that a new project was in the works. The first look at the game’s narrative came in December through a trailer that depicted the gritty crime family dynamics typical of the franchise, now set in turn-of-the-century Sicily. With this new installment, the creators are prioritizing a captivating story over the free-roaming gameplay players have experienced in previous titles.

According to the game’s FAQ on its official website, it will ultimately deliver “a linear, narrative-driven game,” marking a clear shift from the traditional open-world structure. Hangar 13 has been open about its vision for Mafia: The Old Country since development started in 2022, but this definitive move away from an open-world experience was confirmed in the recent FAQ. Storytelling has always been a cornerstone of the Mafia franchise, drawing inspiration from classic gangster films like Goodfellas and The Godfather.

In Mafia: The Old Country, the narrative will follow Enzo as he grapples with themes of loyalty and honor within his family. Although the linear format may lead to shorter gameplay compared to Mafia 3, fans can expect significant value for their investment. Pre-orders are already available, including a Deluxe Edition that offers several bonuses such as unique outfits, weaponry, and transportation options including a limousine and a horse.

Couples Celebrate at Pokemon GO Fest 2025: Paris Revives Beloved Event for Fans

In 2024, Pokemon GO Fest introduced a unique opportunity for couples to propose during the event, and it’s back at the upcoming Pokemon GO Fest in Paris. This special engagement feature allows romantic partners to apply for a chance to have a proposal captured by a professional photographer in one of the most iconic cities in the world. To participate, couples must attend the event in person and submit their relationship story via email. Since its inception, Pokemon GO Fest has seen couples seize the chance to propose, with five proposals successfully made at the 2024 Madrid event.

With Pokemon GO Fest returning to Paris, couples once again have the opportunity to create a memorable moment in a picturesque setting. The Pokemon GO team has announced that the fest in Paris will take place from June 13-15, and chosen couples will enjoy an exclusive venue for their proposals. Additionally, they will receive a special surprise gift, reminiscent of previous events, where participants have had meet-and-greets with popular characters like Pikachu and Eevee. For those interested in joining this engaging experience, there are a few steps to follow.

Couples must purchase tickets for the festival, priced at approximately €27, which is about $30 USD. To apply for the proposal opportunity, couples need to email Pokemon GO detailing their relationship and engagement plans. If selected, they can bring their engagement ring, while the event organizers handle the rest. Historically, only a limited number of couples have been chosen, with ten couples selected at last year’s event.

For many Pokemon fans, the game has become a meaningful part of their romantic relationships. Whether enjoying a walk together or connecting through shared interests, Pokemon GO has a way of bringing couples closer, making this engagement opportunity highly appealing to trainers seeking love.

Razer Unveils Innovative Head Cushion Speaker, a Game-Changing Alternative to Traditional Headphones

Razer has launched the Clio, a unique head cushion speaker designed to provide both comfort and high-quality surround sound. Priced at $230, the Clio features THX spatial audio, offers up to 14 hours of usage, and boasts wireless connectivity.

This innovative product reflects Razer’s ongoing commitment to push boundaries in gaming technology, following its notable introductions like the Zephyr mask and Project Arielle chair. The Clio speaker can function independently or complement an existing audio setup.

It’s designed to serve as a comfortable headrest, ideal for those seeking to enhance their audio experience without the discomfort often associated with traditional headphones. With appearances reminiscent of a standard cushion, it also features two adjustable wings that can fold in toward the user, providing a more immersive listening experience similar to that found in business-class airline seating.

In terms of technical specifications, the Razer Clio utilizes THX spatial audio and is equipped with dual 43mm full-range drivers. Users have the flexibility to use it as a complete headphone alternative or as part of a surround sound system, where it can act as a rear speaker when paired with front-facing speakers for 5.1 surround sound.

The device supports Razer HyperSpeed, enabling low-latency wireless connections, as well as Bluetooth compatibility with PCs, Android, and iOS devices. Overall, the Clio promises approximately 14 hours of use and can be conveniently recharged via USB-C. With orders available upon publication of this article, shipments are expected to commence on May 16.

Razer continues to stand out in the evolving market for PC peripherals and furniture, exemplified by its recent reveal of the Project Arielle chair, designed with seasonal comfort features, which remains a concept for now.

Half-Life 2 RTX Update Addresses and Resolves Lighting Problems

The latest update to Half-Life 2 RTX has made significant enhancements to lighting and visuals, addressing earlier criticisms from the community. With improvements to water effects, the antlion model, and stability, the update provides a richer visual experience while maintaining the essence of the original game. The Orbifold team has worked diligently to refine the project, which is distinct from Valve’s original work.

Half-Life 2 RTX, developed by Orbifold Studios—known for their notable modifications like Half-Life 2 VR—intends to overhaul the game visually. The latest patch, following the initial demo released earlier this year, introduces improved lighting, which enhances the iconic atmosphere of levels such as Ravenholm. Players had previously voiced concerns about the demo’s failure to accurately replicate the unique aesthetic of Half-Life 2, and these updates aim to rectify that.

This third major update further fine-tunes the appearance of water and fog, resolves several known crashes, and optimizes the antlion model, all while enhancing the overall lighting. Flickering issues with light have been addressed, providing a smoother and more stable gaming experience. The integration of a newer version of the RTX Remix runtime is also expected to enhance gameplay stability.

The community’s feedback has driven many of these changes, particularly regarding Ravenholm, where lighting plays a crucial role in creating an eerie atmosphere. The initial demo’s overly bright portrayal disappointed players, but the update now aligns closely with the game’s original tone. Players can now enjoy a visually impressive Ravenholm that resonates more with their nostalgic memories of Half-Life 2.

Overall, these updates herald a promising evolution of Half-Life 2 RTX, showcasing the dedication of the Orbifold team to deliver a visually stunning and immersive experience true to the beloved classic.

Hideo Kojima Reveals the Reasoning Behind the Release Date of Death Stranding 2

The release date for Death Stranding 2 was established “quite a while ago,” with a target set for no later than 2024. Hideo Kojima, the director behind the title, indicated that the timing of its launch was primarily determined by the publisher, Sony. As is customary, it was important for Death Stranding 2 to avoid coinciding with any other significant releases from the same publisher.

The highly anticipated sequel, officially announced in December 2022, secured a firm release date of June 26, 2025. Kojima highlighted the strategic choice of this date, as it would foster engagement while steering clear of the competition. In a recent episode of the Japanese-language KOJI10 podcast, Kojima elaborated that the release date was not solely his decision.

As a PlayStation exclusive, Death Stranding 2 was cautiously positioned in relation to Sony’s other major titles anticipated to launch in 2025. According to Kojima, the timing was solidified “quite a while back.” While he did not provide specific details, it appears Kojima Productions and Sony worked on the timing of the game’s arrival prior to September 2024.

During a developer panel at the Tokyo Games Show, he mentioned “unforeseen circumstances” as a reason for not disclosing the release date sooner. The date was ultimately confirmed in early March 2025, right before pre-orders began. Kojima acknowledged that while the holiday season is typically the most profitable for video games, this period was not an option for Death Stranding 2, especially after Ghost of Yotei was announced for an early October 2025 release.

Although the game will launch as a PS5 exclusive, it is anticipated that it will later be available on PC.

Gex Trilogy Announces Release Date, Classic Edition, and Exciting New Features

Limited Run Games has announced the release of the Gex Trilogy, set for June 16. This collection will be available in physical editions, with pre-orders starting on May 9. The Gex Trilogy features several enhancements, including support for widescreen resolution and improved analog controls.

The trilogy includes three distinct physical editions: Standard, Classic, and Tail Time, each offering unique bonuses for collectors and fans alike. This marks a significant comeback for the Gex franchise, which has been inactive since the late 90s. New fans will finally get to experience the humorous escapades of Gex, the witty lizard, and enjoy the nostalgic references that characterized the original games.

Prior to the remastered release, the Gex series had been dormant for over two decades. Despite this gap, the new version retains the series’ trademark humor and quirky charm, continuing to deliver the entertaining one-liners for which it is known. The Standard Edition, priced at $39.99, includes the three games: Gex, Gex: Enter the Gecko, and Gex 3: Deep Cover Gecko, along with a game disc/cartridge, case, cover, booklet, and a Steam key for PC.

The Classic Edition, available for $74.99, expands upon the Standard contents by adding a Steelbook®, a double-sided poster, a soundtrack selection CD, and a retro-style box. For devoted fans, the Tail Time Edition is priced at $199.99 and offers a comprehensive package, featuring exclusive design work by renowned Final Fantasy illustrator Yoshitaka Amano. As the gaming industry witnesses a revival of 90s mascots, Gex is set to reclaim its place in the spotlight.

The remastered trilogy, complete with upgrades, will undoubtedly appeal to both nostalgic players and newcomers ready to embrace the quirky humor of the beloved gecko.

Hideo Kojima Shares Exciting Concepts for a Third Installment of Death Stranding

Hideo Kojima, the renowned video game director, has revealed that he has a concept for a third installment in the Death Stranding series. This announcement comes as Kojima Productions prepares for the release of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, the sequel to the acclaimed 2019 original. Scheduled for launch on June 24, Death Stranding 2 is set 11 months after its predecessor and will see players once again stepping into the shoes of Sam Bridges, who now resides in Mexico with his bridge-baby, Lou. With just over a month until the game’s debut, Kojima has started discussing the future of the franchise.

A limited edition PS5 DualSense controller themed around Death Stranding 2 is also set to launch soon. Despite the imminent release of the second game, Kojima already has ambitious ideas for what will come next. In a recent Q&A, he shared insights about a potential Death Stranding 3, highlighting that the new Plate Gate mechanic introduced in the sequel could serve as a significant feature for expanding the series. This mechanic will enable players to link North America to Australia for fast travel, inspiring Kojima to suggest that the usage of this concept could lead to “endless sequels.”

Though the potential for a third game is exhilarating, Kojima urges fans to manage their expectations. He has clarified that while he possesses a concept for Death Stranding 3, he does not intend to direct it himself. Instead, he plans to hand over the reins to another team, primarily to focus on his current projects. After Death Stranding 2, his studio will work on a new title, OD, co-written with horror director Jordan Peele.

Following this, Kojima will return to his tactical espionage roots with a project titled Physint, which will be released as both a video game and a feature film. As Kojima continues to evolve the landscape of gaming, it remains to be seen what the future holds for the Death Stranding franchise after the launch of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. The journey for Sam and his companions will undoubtedly be an inspiring exploration of human connection in a world filled with challenges and adversaries.

Former Rockstar Developer Takes a Jab at the Mario Kart Scene

Mike York, a former animator for Rockstar, has expressed his admiration for the emerging Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6), highlighting its remarkable detail and realism in comparison to other games. He believes that titles like Mario Kart World, which is set to launch on June 5 for $80, cannot match the depth and value that GTA 6 is expected to offer.

Although Mario Kart World is just weeks away from release, interest in GTA 6 remains high, even with its delay until May 2026. York, who has worked on significant projects such as GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2, recently analyzed GTA 6’s second trailer.

He praised the game’s intricate detailing, particularly the advanced lighting effects, and suggested that such features might have contributed to the delay in its launch. Drawing a comparison between GTA 6 and Mario Kart World, York stated in a YouTube video that the latter’s $90 price tag doesn’t hold up against the richness of GTA 6’s gameplay experience.

He asserted, “No other game has the detail and the amount of realism” that GTA 6 can boast, indicating that its eventual price will be justified by the extensive content. As for the cost of GTA 6, it remains unknown following its delay.

Speculations have circulated suggesting a potential price of $100, which could exceed that of Mario Kart World. With the impressive reception of the latest trailer for GTA 6, there’s little doubt that fans would be willing to pay a premium for the game, but the final price is yet to be revealed.

While gamers eagerly await GTA 6’s 2026 release, Nintendo enthusiasts can look forward to enjoying Mario Kart World this June. Despite the controversy surrounding its $80 price, Nintendo claims that the game will bring significant content to justify the cost, including a diverse character roster and an open-world Free Roam feature.

The success of both titles remains uncertain, and their pricing could play a major role in attracting buyers.