Category: Games

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is experiencing faster sales on the PlayStation 5 compared to Xbox and Steam, according to findings from an analytics firm. While nearly 5 million Xbox users have engaged with the game, most accessed it through the Game Pass subscription service. The success of the game has prompted Microsoft to hint at a sequel, which reflects its performance across multiple platforms. The game originally launched in December 2024 and made its way to the PS5 on April 17, 2025.

Developed by MachineGames, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle received positive reviews, leading many PS5 players to eagerly await its release on their preferred console. This anticipation may account for the sales differences now noted in the recent analytics report. According to Alinea Analytics, the PS5 version of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle sold over 117,200 units within the first week, outpacing Steam’s 91,200 units in the same timeframe. Alinea’s market analysis head, Rhys Elliott, pointed out that the majority of the Xbox players discovered the game through Game Pass rather than traditional console sales, highlighting the phenomenon of “subscription cannibalization.”

Interestingly, the game sold more copies during early access on Steam than it did on PS5, reflecting a heightened sense of urgency among players at the game’s initial launch. Additionally, a significant number of gamers, over 1.5 million, have wishlisted the game on Steam, suggesting a sustained interest that could contribute to long-term sales. Despite the game’s overall success, some PS5 owners expressed frustration over the physical disc’s limited data capacity, requiring a substantial download to fully access the game. Nevertheless, with the positive reception, Microsoft’s Phil Spencer has confirmed that the company is excited about the potential for a sequel in the Indiana Jones series.

Fast Fusion is set to launch at an appealing price of $14.99, making it one of the most budget-friendly titles available on the Switch 2 during its initial release phase. Likewise, it has yet to be confirmed for any other platforms, solidifying its status as a console exclusive. The Switch 2 will feature four additional exclusive titles on its launch day, scheduled for June 5.

Developed by the German studio Shin’en Multimedia, Fast Fusion is described as a futuristic arcade racer featuring anti-gravity vehicles that have become a popular sport in its vibrant world. The game will be one of five exclusives available on the Switch 2 when it debuts. Interestingly, just six weeks before its release, Fast Fusion was listed on the eShop for $14.99, which positions it as one of the most affordable titles for the console.

Although the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour will technically be priced lower at $9.99, it’s primarily an interactive preview rather than a full-fledged game. This pricing decision has raised eyebrows among fans, especially considering Nintendo’s history of offering titles like Wii Sports for free. Fast Fusion was initially announced at a higher price of $19.99 during the April 2 Nintendo Direct.

However, its subsequent listing on the eShop indicates that its price has been reduced, which is an uncommon move for games ahead of release. Currently, Fast Fusion stands as the most economical racing option for the Switch 2. In contrast, Mario Kart World is launching with a steep price tag of $80 in the U.S. and even higher in Europe, where it will retail for approximately €90 or $102.

Despite both being exclusives for the Switch 2, Fast Fusion has a better chance of being released on more platforms due to not being developed or published by Nintendo. The remaining day-one exclusives include titles like Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster, Survival Kids, and the Welcome Tour.

Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster will not feature an option to set encounter rates to zero, which marks a significant change from the original 3DS version. Players will still have some control over battle encounters, as they can customize the rates between 50% and 200%.

This adjustment aims to provide a degree of flexibility while still maintaining random encounters in the game. Originally released in 2012 on the 3DS, Bravely Default was heavily influenced by the renowned Final Fantasy series.

In this game, players assume the roles of Tiz, Agnes, Edea, and Ringabel as they journey through the land of Luxendarc, seeking mystical crystals with the help of a Cryst-Fairy named Airy. While both franchises incorporate iconic character classes and utilize crystals as a central plot element, Bravely Default introduced unique gameplay mechanics, specifically the Brave and Default actions.

These mechanics allow players to stockpile turns and unleash them for powerful attacks against foes. Despite these engaging combat features, the absence of a zero encounter rate option in the remaster has disappointed many fans.

Previously, players appreciated the complete control they had over random encounters in the 3DS version. In its upcoming remaster, players will only be able to adjust the battle encounter rates within the specified range, leaving behind the option to eliminate random encounters entirely.

Additionally, physical copies of the Bravely Default remaster for the Switch 2 will be distributed via Game-Key Cards, which require downloading the game files from Nintendo’s servers. This setup means that players will need 11 GB of storage for the game.

The remaster is set to launch alongside the Switch 2 on June 5, leaving fans curious about potential updates that might reintroduce the zero encounter rate option in the future.

Phasmophobia has reached a significant milestone, selling over 3 million copies on PlayStation, PS VR2, and Xbox Series X/S. This achievement highlights the game’s extensive appeal as it continues to attract players on various consoles. Initially launched in early access on PC in 2020, the game quickly gained popularity, selling an impressive 22 million copies within four years. Console gamers, however, only joined the ghost-hunting adventure in late 2024.

While console players have been enjoying Phasmophobia, they initially faced a setback due to the lack of voice recognition feature at the launch. This functionality, which enhances communication with in-game ghosts and adds to the overall haunting experience, became available in a February 2025 patch. This delay meant that console users could not fully engage with the ghostly interactions that PC players enjoyed. Nevertheless, the introduction of voice recognition is expected to further increase interest in the title as it deepens the immersive experience.

Looking ahead, the future of Phasmophobia appears promising. Kinetic Games has announced a series of updates and events designed to keep players engaged. The first event of the year encourages players to complete additional objectives for trophies and ID cards. Upcoming updates will introduce player character customization, new maps, and a significant overhaul known as Horror 2.0, which aims to enhance hauntings and ghost interactions.

With Halloween approaching, it’s anticipated that sales will continue to rise, making it an exciting time for both the developers and the dedicated player community. As Phasmophobia evolves, it remains a thrilling addition to the horror gaming genre.

Xbox Game Pass subscribers are expressing their enthusiasm for the game Crime Scene Cleaner, which has been described as “absolutely addictive.” Players are particularly enjoying its similarities to the soothing mechanics found in PowerWash Simulator, contributing to a relaxing gaming experience. Crime Scene Cleaner is part of Xbox Game Pass’s impressive lineup, which has also included recent hits like The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered and Blue Prince. Many subscribers feel that Crime Scene Cleaner could be one of the hidden gems of 2025 on the platform.

Each month, Xbox Game Pass offers new titles, allowing subscribers to discover their next favorite game. Popular day-one releases include not only Oblivion Remastered but also Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. The subscription service, which has tiers starting at $9.99 per month for Xbox Game Pass Core and going up to $19.99 for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, continually evolves its game catalog. Those who opt for Xbox Game Pass PC and Ultimate tiers gain day-one access to first-party titles from Xbox Game Studios, as well as select third-party games and exclusive deals.

This creates opportunities for indie games like Crime Scene Cleaner to thrive. Feedback on Reddit from users such as SenseMakesNone and PactownSS highlights the enjoyable and therapeutic aspects of Crime Scene Cleaner, which was added to the service on April 17. Fans are drawn to its unique gameplay and storyline centered around a fixer who cleans up crime scenes. Many players view it as one of the standout titles available on Xbox Game Pass.

Despite some areas of the game still needing polish, players are eagerly awaiting updates from the developer, President Studio. With a solid lineup, including Crime Scene Cleaner and announcements anticipated at the upcoming Xbox Games Showcase in June, 2025 looks promising for Xbox Game Pass subscribers.

Scheduled for release on July 25 for both PC and Nintendo Switch systems, “No Sleep For Kaname Date – From AI: The Somnium Files” promises to introduce an exciting new feature for the Nintendo Switch 2. Players will now have the ability to utilize mouse controls, a first for non-PC users of the game. This innovation distinguishes “No Sleep For Kaname Date” from previous titles in the series. In this latest installment, players will once again assume the role of the detective Kaname Date, teaming up with his AI companion, Aiba.

Their mission is to solve the enigmatic case of internet idol Iris’s disappearance. The game beautifully merges visual novel elements with detective work and escape room challenges, maintaining a familiar experience for fans while incorporating fresh mechanics for the Nintendo Switch 2. As reported by Nintendo Life, the mouse control feature enables players to make full use of the new hardware capabilities of the Switch 2. This addition joins a growing roster of games for the console, such as “Metroid Prime 4: Beyond” and “Civilization 7,” that also support mouse functionality.

Fans of the “AI: The Somnium Files” series have expressed their appreciation for mouse support in previous PC versions, and the enthusiasm for a similar experience on the Switch 2 is palpable. Beyond mouse controls, the Nintendo Switch 2 version will boast several enhancements over the standard version, including improved graphics and faster loading times. However, fans have expressed frustration that the Switch and Switch 2 editions are entirely separate, with no upgrade option available for players wishing to transition. Therefore, it’s essential for prospective buyers to consider which version of “No Sleep For Kaname Date” they wish to purchase.

Excitement for the Nintendo Switch 2 continues to surge, with pre-orders reaching unprecedented levels and causing challenges for retailers. As this next-generation console gains traction, games like “No Sleep For Kaname Date – From AI: The Somnium Files” are poised for potential success in this evolving market. In this newest entry, Kaname Date finds himself once again at the center of a swirling mystery. Following the events of “The New Cyclops Serial Killings,” internet idol Iris Sagan, known as “A-set,” is abducted by a UFO and thrust into a treacherous escape game called “The Third Eye Game.”

Meanwhile, a mysterious coffin-like device is discovered, accompanied by a cryptic note that reads: “Psync me.” Determined to locate the elusive UFO, Date reinvigorates his quest, relying on limited communication with Iris. Together with Aiba, he embarks on a thrilling adventure, facing challenges and uncovering secrets along the way. The journey showcases Date’s determination and the complexities of his newfound mission.

Recent leaks suggest that new Team-Ups may be coming to Marvel Rivals, introducing exciting combinations like Punisher and Black Widow, Venom with Jeff, Luna Snow and Hawkeye, as well as Rocket Raccoon partnering with Peni Parker. Though specific details are still pending, these Team-Ups could debut in the anticipated mid-Season 2 update.

Team-Ups in Marvel Rivals are an exciting feature that activates enhanced abilities and buffs when specific characters collaborate on the same team. One standout example is the Fastball Special, allowing Hulk to hurl Wolverine across the battlefield.

Another popular combination, the Fantastic Force, pairs the Invisible Woman with members of The Fantastic Four, bolstering their allies’ resilience and health recovery. The recent leaks, shared by noted dataminer X0X_Leak, hint at the potential additions of Team-Ups that include established characters and fan favorites.

According to the leaks, Punisher, Venom, Luna Snow, and Rocket Raccoon will serve as the anchors for these new Team-Ups with their respective partners. However, the details regarding their active and passive abilities remain undisclosed.

Players have speculated that the synergy between Venom and Jeff could amplify the latter’s ultimate ability, while the interactions between the other characters may pave the way for new strategies. Currently, players can take advantage of various Team-Ups such as Ammo Overload for Punisher, Symbiote Bond for Venom, and others.

The combined skills and powers of these heroes promise dynamic gameplay experiences. Players are eagerly awaiting the mid-Season 2 update, not just for the new Team-Ups but also for Ultron’s introduction and potential map changes.

Marvel Rivals presents an engaging team-based PVP shooter experience, where players can assemble an all-star squad and create unique strategies in destructible environments across the expansive Marvel universe. With a diverse selection of heroes and constantly evolving dynamics, players are in for thrilling action and limitless possibilities in their superhero battles.

Meta has recently laid off employees from its virtual reality studios, including those behind popular games like Supernatural and Asgard’s Wrath. These layoffs are expected to slow down the release of new workouts for the fitness game Supernatural. This marks the second round of layoffs for Meta in 2025, following a significant reduction of 3,600 jobs earlier this year.

The layoffs are part of broader trends in the gaming industry, where job cuts have become increasingly common. Major companies like Microsoft, Bandai Namco, Ubisoft, BioWare, and Eidos Montreal have also enacted layoffs this year. Meta has chosen to downsize its staff in its acquired VR studios, particularly Within Unlimited, Inc. and Sanzaru Games, which are responsible for the aforementioned games.

A spokesperson from Meta confirmed the layoffs, stating that teams within Oculus Studios are undergoing shifts in structure and roles. The impact of these layoffs is evident in the development of Supernatural. The VR fitness game recently acknowledged the loss of team members and noted that it may take longer to release new workouts as a result of the need to “work more efficiently.”

However, players can expect the addition of multiple intensity options in upcoming workouts, which may mitigate the impact of reduced frequency. Earlier in February of 2025, Meta undertook significant job cuts, citing performance-based reasons for the layoffs. Although the company has offered the recently laid-off employees the option to apply for alternative roles within Meta, it remains uncertain how many will be able to return to the organization.

Along with these layoffs, Meta has previously acquired several VR studios, bringing titles like Beat Saber and Resident Evil 4 VR into its portfolio. However, plans for a VR version of GTA: San Andreas have been put on hold following its acquisition by Rockstar Games.

Subnautica 2 marks a significant departure from its predecessor by omitting iconic vehicles such as the Cyclops submarine. Instead, the game promises a fresh experience focused on new gameplay mechanics and concepts currently under development, including genetic modification and a large new vehicle. Design Lead Anthony Gallegos confirmed that familiar creatures and vehicles from previous titles will not return, as Subnautica 2 is set on a different planet with a unique and mysterious ecosystem. The original Subnautica captivated players with its open-world exploration and survival mechanics, where they navigated terrifying depths to gather materials for survival.

Players relied on vehicles like the small Seamoth, the durable Prawn Suit, and the well-known Cyclops, which served as floating bases. However, none of these will be featured in the new installment. Instead, players can expect a new type of massive vehicle that has yet to be detailed. Innovation is at the forefront of Subnautica 2’s development, as the team aims to provide a distinct experience while retaining core elements from prior games.

For instance, the introduction of genetic modification allows players to adapt alien creatures for new abilities. Recently, a developer vlog offered insights into new environments and building mechanics, reinforcing that the game will not include familiar creatures, instead presenting a rich new ecosystem. Subnautica 2 encourages exploration in solo or multiplayer modes for up to three friends, prompting players to uncover the mysteries of a treacherous world. Crafting plays a vital role in survival, with customizable bases and advanced tools aiding player adaptation.

The aquatic environment showcases diverse biomes teeming with life, all while players work to understand the balance of this alien world. The project is undertaken by Unknown Worlds, a remote studio with a history dating back to the Half-Life mod Natural Selection. As an Early Access title, Subnautica 2 promises active development, allowing players to engage with evolving content and help shape its future.

Asmongold has achieved the remarkable distinction of being the most-watched streamer in North America on Twitch in 2025. With an impressive 26.22 million watch hours recorded in the first quarter, he has outperformed notable competitors like KaiCenat and TimTheTatman. His ongoing success is evident as he recently monetized his alternate account, earning nearly six figures in just a matter of days. Known primarily for his gameplay in World of Warcraft and his often controversial online presence, Asmongold has been a fixture in the streaming community since 2009, making a transition to Twitch in 2011.

Although he has moved away from primarily streaming World of Warcraft, his ability to adapt and thrive on the platform remains undeniable. In recent discussions, Pokimane disclosed that a Twitch employee exploited their position, falsely claiming a relationship with her to scam viewers. This incident highlights the risks and controversies that sometimes permeate the Twitch environment. Meanwhile, Asmongold’s ascent continues, with Streamscharts reporting his takeover of the streaming landscape in early 2025.

He reached the top of the viewership rankings with a significant lead, as KaiCenat garnered 22.10 million hours and TimTheTatman totaled 20.21 million hours. Notably, KaiCenat managed to secure second place while streaming the fewest hours, just 274, compared to Asmongold’s 567 hours and TimTheTatman’s 1,002 hours. Asmongold’s milestones keep accumulating; in March, he set a record for the most hours watched on Twitch, amassing 5 million hours within just two weeks. By the end of 2024, he monetized his alt account, adding to his earnings at an astonishing rate.

Despite the challenges Twitch faces in the ever-changing streaming landscape, Asmongold’s popularity and profitability remain steadfast as the competition heats up among platforms like YouTube and Kick.