Category: Games

The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 will implement a controversial system using game-key cards, which serve as proof of purchase without containing any actual game data. This innovation has drawn criticism from many in the gaming community, particularly from Stephen Kick, the CEO of Nightdive Studios.

He has openly expressed concerns about the implications of this new approach for game preservation and the future of physical media in gaming. During the initial Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo unveiled these proprietary game-key cards.

Unlike the traditional cartridges of the original Switch, these cards will not enable players to play games directly. Instead, their purpose is only to indicate that a game has been purchased; by inserting a game-key card into the Switch 2, players can download the titles associated with those cards.

This shift has prompted many to view it as a significant flaw in the Switch 2’s release strategy, raising alarms about digital ownership and content accessibility. In a recent interview with GamesIndustry.biz, Kick described Nintendo’s strategy for game-key cards as “a little disheartening.”

He highlighted concerns that once the Switch 2 eShop shuts down, games linked to these cards will become unavailable. He remarked, “You would hope that a company that big, that has such a storied history, would take preservation a little more seriously.”

Kick’s commitment to game preservation is evident given Nightdive Studios’ focus on reviving classic titles.

Despite having previously attempted to remaster GoldenEye 007, which did not come to fruition, Nightdive has successfully brought several retro games to the original Switch. While Nintendo aims to clarify its game-key card system with disclaimers on packaging, the overall shift in how the company handles physical media has resulted in discontent among collectors and gamers alike, many of whom view it as a regression from prior practices.

8BitDo has announced a temporary halt on shipments of its popular controllers to the US from China, citing the 145% tariffs imposed by the Trump administration as the reason for this pause. This decision affects specific controllers intended for Switch and Xbox consoles. However, US customers can still purchase items that are currently in the company’s US warehouse. As of now, there is no timeline for when shipments from China will resume.

The ongoing tariffs have significantly impacted not just 8BitDo but various companies across multiple sectors, leading to an overall disruption in the supply chain. In fact, this policy has prompted other businesses, such as Microsoft, to increase the prices of Xbox Series X/S consoles and accessories, with notable price hikes taking effect in May. While 8BitDo ponders the ramifications of tariffs, they have clarified that orders placed through their website from the Chinese warehouse cannot be processed if the delivery address is in the US. Customers looking to purchase popular items like the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller will have to look elsewhere, though they can check inventories at third-party retailers such as Best Buy, Walmart, and Amazon.

Interestingly, 8BitDo is not alone in this predicament. On April 9, Square Enix announced similar measures regarding specific merchandise shipments to the US and Canada due to concerns surrounding tariffs. While these disruptions continue to affect the gaming accessories market, those eager to nab 8BitDo products should stay updated as they await the resumption of Chinese shipments. In the meantime, there are options available, including various 8BitDo controllers already in US stores, allowing customers to still enjoy high-quality gaming peripherals.

Phasmophobia has rolled out a new hotfix patch aimed at enhancing gameplay and user interface issues, resulting in a smoother experience for players. This update specifically prevents players from placing equipment on Jackalope nest eggs and allows the Obake ghost to shapeshift during various events. While the patch addresses numerous issues, players may still encounter some lighting glitches, but future updates are expected to deliver significant improvements and new content.

In May 2025, Phasmophobia introduced an update that focuses primarily on fixing bugs reported by players. Though it doesn’t feature extensive new content, this patch ensures the game operates more smoothly while tackling recent player concerns. Phasmophobia immerses players in the role of ghost hunters who investigate haunted locations, gather evidence of paranormal activities, and strive to survive.

Since its early access release in September 2020, the game has achieved considerable success, selling over 20 million copies on PC alone. Its console debut on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S just ahead of Halloween 2024 further expanded its reach. Kinetic Games provided a hotfix update, version 0.12.1.1, to address issues that arose following the Cursed Hollow event.

Key adjustments included the change regarding Jackalope nest eggs and enhancements to the Obake ghost model for seasonal events. The patch also resolved several gameplay and interface bugs, such as audio issues with the Cursed Hollow leaflet and proper functionality in map voting. Despite these fixes, some challenges remain.

Developers acknowledge potential lighting glitches that may persist while the event is ongoing. Kinetic Games has outlined a roadmap for 2025 and beyond, promising major updates, revised maps, and additional seasonal content. Phasmophobia has recently celebrated a milestone, having sold over 3 million copies across PlayStation, PS VR2, and Xbox Series X/S.

Saber Interactive has announced that Evil Dead: The Game will be delisted from various digital storefronts. While the game is no longer available on Epic Games, PlayStation, or Steam, it is still listed on the Xbox Store. The developer confirmed that the game’s servers will remain operational for players who have already purchased it, providing some reassurance to the community. Evil Dead: The Game was launched in 2022 and quickly garnered attention for its engaging asymmetric survival horror gameplay.

The title, developed by Saber and published by Boss Team Games, features co-op gameplay paired with intense PvP combat and a cast of characters drawn from the beloved Evil Dead franchise created by Sam Raimi. The franchise itself boasts five films and the television series “Ash vs Evil Dead,” cementing its status in horror history. Incorporating the distinctive style of Raimi’s films, the game evokes themes of grotesque decay and isolation against a backdrop of the American South. This aesthetic has placed it among other notable Southern Gothic horror games, including The Texas Chain Saw Massacre and Telltale’s The Walking Dead.

As fans of Evil Dead: The Game voiced their concerns over its removal from storefronts, there was a sense of relief that the servers would remain accessible. While the game continues to hold a cherished spot among players, the community is lamenting its delisting, often citing it as one of the top asymmetric horror experiences. In the meantime, the Evil Dead franchise remains vibrant through other projects, including the 16-bit platformer RetroRealms: Ash vs Evil Dead and the popular game Dead by Daylight. Additionally, the cinematic side of the franchise continues to thrive, with Lee Cronin’s 2023 entry, Evil Dead Rise, proving successful and paving the way for a new film, Evil Dead Burn, set for 2026.

Bruce Campbell, a fan-favorite, has even hinted at his desire to return to the franchise, further igniting excitement among devotees.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has made a remarkable entrance into the gaming world, with its launch remaining unaffected by the sudden release of Oblivion Remastered. According to Kepler Interactive, the game’s publisher, they believe that the presence of both titles actually drew more attention to the RPG genre. Kepler observed, “I think it just drew attention to quality RPGs that week and everybody was thinking and talking about the genre.”

In terms of performance, Expedition 33 has outperformed Oblivion in global sales. This turn-based RPG, developed by indie studio Sandfall Interactive, is set in a dark fantasy Belle Époque world where players join a group tasked with defeating a mysterious being known as the Paintress.

Following its launch, the game received its first post-launch update, patch 1.2.2, addressing several issues including inventory glitches and soft-locking bugs. The game artfully builds its narrative through subtle dialogue, avoiding heavy exposition. Though Oblivion Remastered was quietly released just over a week ago, fans had anticipated the news after ongoing leaks and speculation about its development. Such surprise launches typically raise concerns for competing games on the release calendar, including Expedition 33, which came out shortly after.

However, Kepler confirmed that Oblivion’s launch “didn’t seem to harm us at all.” They reiterated that both games’ releases spotlighted the RPG genre, benefiting all involved. Moreover, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is not only gaining traction in sales but has recently boasted a higher concurrent player count on Steam than Oblivion Remastered. In an interview, senior portfolio director Matt Handrahan discussed the unique appeal of Expedition 33, noting its blend of Western and Japanese RPG styles, which cater to different gaming audiences. Looking to the future, there are hints that DLC may be in the works, with the team considering additional content if demand exists from players.

Sandfall is eager to explore the other expeditions mentioned in the game’s narrative for potential expansions.

Reports have emerged that a Switch 2 version of Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero has been rated in Saudi Arabia. Although Bandai Namco has already announced four titles for the Switch 2, Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero is not currently among them. The existence of this age rating suggests that the game may soon make its way to the new console, potentially enhancing the Switch 2’s fighting game offerings. Originally released in October 2024 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero was developed by Spike Chunsoft and published by Bandai Namco.

Upon its launch, it became a massive hit, selling an impressive 3 million copies within the first 24 hours and surpassing 5 million lifetime sales by February 2025. This success has made it one of the most recognized fighting games in recent times. According to Twitter user Gmedia_Games, the newly surfaced rating classifies Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero as suitable for players aged 12 and up, which aligns with its previous ratings. While there has been no official confirmation of the game being part of the Switch 2’s launch lineup, the age rating indicates an imminent release could be in the works.

Even without the inclusion of Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero, Bandai Namco’s lineup for the Switch 2 is shaping up to be impressive. Notable titles include the highly anticipated Switch 2 version of Elden Ring, expected in the future, and Tamagotchi Plaza, set for launch on June 27. Additionally, the Dark Pac-Man spin-off, Shadow Labyrinth, is scheduled for release on July 18, with the company also working on Kirby Air Riders. The recent age rating is not the first indication of a potential Switch 2 version of Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero, as rumors about the port have circulated since March 2025.

If Bandai Namco’s title does release on the new console, it is likely to become a top choice for fighting game enthusiasts, amidst other confirmed titles like Street Fighter 6, which will be available from day one on the Switch 2.

Many fans of The Elder Scrolls series believe that the magic system in Oblivion is more complex and nuanced than that of Skyrim. This sentiment has contributed to a preference for Oblivion among certain gamers, particularly due to its intricate spell crafting system, which was absent in Skyrim.

In response, Bethesda is currently collecting player feedback on Oblivion Remastered, aiming to address any concerns and potentially implement improvements. Recent discussions among gamers playing The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered have brought to light opinions favoring its magic system over that of Skyrim.

Although Skyrim is the most successful title in the Elder Scrolls franchise, with over 40 million copies sold, many players argue that it represents a step back in terms of magic mechanics. Oblivion, released in 2006, modernized the Elder Scrolls formula and sold more than nine million units.

Now, with the Remastered edition, gamers are reliving the classic experience, enhanced by better graphics and quality-of-life improvements. A standout discussion was initiated by an Elder Scrolls fan named jacklondon183, who asserted that Oblivion’s magic system is superior, featuring deeper mechanics and the ability for players to cast spells without equipping them as weapons, thereby keeping their hands free.

This post garnered considerable support, receiving over 22,000 upvotes, with many players echoing sentiments that Skyrim’s system is a downgrade. While many gamers are enjoying Oblivion Remastered, some have expressed dissatisfaction with specific changes, such as alterations to the Dark Brotherhood’s atmosphere due to the new lighting system.

Others have noted that the overall brightness of the remastered game feels too muted, making the environment appear somewhat bland. Bethesda is actively seeking feedback through a designated Discord channel to address these concerns, hoping to enhance the overall player experience in the coming weeks.

A dedicated Pokemon fan has unveiled an imaginative re-imagining of Applin, introducing a delightful pineapple variant called Pineapplin. This fresh design portrays Pineapplin as an Electric/Dragon-type Pokemon and suggests a quirky evolution named “Hawaiin,” envisioned as a pineapple pizza dragon. The creative concept has garnered a positive response from fellow fans, who appreciated both the humor inherent in the evolution’s backstory and the intricate details of the new Applin variant. The Pokemon franchise is well-known for its various reinterpretations of previous Pokemon, including regional variants and unique new designs.

Recent titles like Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have showcased numerous revamped forms of classic Pokemon, such as a regional variant of Wooper and a faux regional variation of Diglett. In this spirit of creativity, the latest fan concept presents a tropical twist on Applin, reflecting the franchise’s trend of inspiring fans to develop their original ideas for Pokemon. Series mascots like Pikachu and Eevee often serve as popular muses for fans creating their renditions of these beloved creatures. Compositions vary from Water-type Pikachu designs to entirely new Eeveelutions.

Some enthusiasts take creative liberties, crafting human interpretations or realistic versions of well-known Pokemon, including figures like Klefki and Urshifu. This latest contribution highlights a refreshing take on Applin with Pineapplin. Presented on the “Fakemon” subreddit, Reddit user Matratzfratz displayed this vibrant artwork, describing Pineapplin as a popular “Rental Pokemon.” The playful evolution concept also humorously notes that evolving Pineapplin is “highly frowned upon.”

The transition to an Electric type adds another layer of creativity. Fans have responded with enthusiasm, expressing admiration for both the design and its fun references, particularly the ongoing pineapple-on-pizza debate. Exciting developments are on the horizon for the Pokemon franchise. Game Freak and The Pokemon Company are preparing for the release of Pokemon Legends: Z-A, a new installment succeeding the well-received Pokemon Legends: Arceus.

Additionally, the Pokemon Trading Card Game anticipates new content, including a Team Rocket-themed set and the return of Mega Evolutions. As the franchise evolves, it continues to inspire fans to express their passion through imaginative creations.

Subscription services like PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass have become integral to the gaming experience, providing players with a diverse selection of games for a regular fee. However, their long-term sustainability in the gaming industry is now under scrutiny.

Increasing prices, the removal of popular titles, and stagnant revenue growth have raised concerns about the viability of these models moving forward. Mat Piscatella, an analyst at Circana, has expressed skepticism about the future dominance of subscription services in gaming.

He acknowledges that while they will play a role, they will not be the primary driving force behind the industry. Recent price hikes for PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass subscriptions further exacerbate worries about the effectiveness of this model.

Despite the initial excitement surrounding these services, their growth appears to be waning. A notable example of this decline is Sony’s decision to remove 22 games from PS Plus, including high-profile titles like Grand Theft Auto 5.

This move paints a bleak picture for the future of subscription services, especially considering that U.S. spending on these platforms has plateaued since the spikes observed during 2020 and 2021. Piscatella did note a slight uptick in spending during late 2024, largely attributed to the release of Call of Duty games on Game Pass.

While this resulted in a temporary revenue increase for Xbox, it seems to be more of an exception than a sustained pattern. He suggests that while subscription services may not dominate the future of gaming, they will certainly remain a part of it.

In discussing the shifts within the industry, Piscatella further mentioned that some companies are moving away from a heavy reliance on subscriptions, while others continue to harness the model’s potential to engage new audiences. The future of subscription services in the gaming landscape, and how they may adapt, is still uncertain.

Infinity Nikki is introducing an exciting dye system in Version 1.5, allowing players to customize their characters’ hair, clothing, and special effects. Players can utilize various palettes, each featuring eight color options, to create unique looks. These palettes will unlock progressively as players complete outfits and reach different Evolution stages. Each outfit can store up to seven personalized Dyeing Schemes, which can be effortlessly shared through QR codes or within the game.

The developers at Infold initially hinted at the dye feature during the Bullquet event in Version 1.3, generating buzz within the community. Originally, dyes were planned to launch alongside housing features, but the latter has been postponed to Summer 2025. Players had some foresight into how the DIY Workshop would operate due to data leaks, but detailed explanations from Infold have clarified the system’s functionality. In Version 1.5, the DIY Workshop will emphasize its compatibility with 3-Star, 4-Star, and 5-Star outfits.

One significant feature is the ability to dye special effects, which becomes available for certain 5-Star outfits after achieving three Evolutions. To unlock additional colors in palettes, players need to utilize dye materials, encouraging them to evolve their outfits. The DIY Workshop has the potential to showcase a player’s creativity, with customizable
patterns for the outfits that can be attained through World Quests and other gameplay features. Players can expect a range of palettes depending on their outfits’ star ratings, with 5-Star outfits offering the most extensive choices.

As players enhance their outfits through Evolutions, they will unlock additional palettes and dye options, including the coveted “Custom Color” palette for ultimate customization. Celebrating the launch of Version 1.5, a special event called Rainbow and Pattern will reward players for completing dyeing tasks. This significant update is slated for release on April 29 and will run until June 4. As future updates unfold, more outfits and customization options are expected to be included in the DIY Workshop.