Category: News

Hideo Kojima, the director of Death Stranding 2, has addressed some challenges associated with incorporating Asian actors into his games. He noted that achieving realistic representations of their likenesses in computer graphics (CG) has proven to be a complex task.

Death Stranding 2 boasts impressive visuals with highly lifelike character models, but including a larger number of Asian characters at this level of fidelity has been difficult. In Kojima’s latest work, there are fewer Asian characters than in previous titles.

However, one notable addition is the character Rainy, portrayed by Japanese actress Shioli Kutsuna. During an interview, Kojima highlighted the collaboration with Kutsuna and the advancements in technology that aided in her portrayal.

Despite the challenges, he expressed a desire to include more Japanese actors in the future. Additionally, Kojima revealed plans for an animated adaptation of the original Death Stranding game.

In his discussions with IGN Japan, he elaborated on the difficulties of recreating Asian faces in CG, particularly with young women. He explained that the smooth skin commonly associated with Asians can appear unrealistic once digitized.

In contrast, older actors with facial imperfections, like freckles, tend to render more naturally in CG. Despite these challenges, several characters of Asian descent made it into the game, including Ma Dong-seok as Samson Hook, Lauren Tsai as The Artist, Mamoru Oshii as The Pizza Chef, and Gen Hoshino as The Musician.

Kutsuna’s involvement was due not only to her acting talents but also her proficiency in both English and Japanese, which is crucial for the production based in Los Angeles. As technology advances, players can expect even greater details in character texture and realism.

This raises anticipation for Kojima’s future projects and how they will address graphical challenges.

The Nintendo Music app has the potential to open doors for concerts featuring the beloved music of the company’s iconic video games. Given Nintendo’s extensive list of popular titles and franchises, there is considerable interest in the prospect of live performances dedicated to its memorable soundtracks.

Historically, Nintendo has embraced live music, with numerous concerts showcasing its soundtracks. Notable events like Symphonic Legends have highlighted the iconic tunes from games such as The Legend of Zelda.

Additionally, the Splatoon series has also enjoyed live performances featuring its distinctive battle tracks and idol songs, indicating a successful precedent for such events. The recent launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 has been a remarkable success, but fans are eager for more clarity on the company’s 2025 lineup.

During the latest Nintendo shareholders meeting, president Shuntaro Furukawa addressed inquiries about potential live concerts. He indicated that the Nintendo Music app is part of a strategy to introduce a broader audience to the various soundtracks associated with the games.

Furukawa expressed a desire for players to experience their gaming memories through music and hinted at the possibility of future concerts, demonstrating that this idea is actively on Nintendo’s radar. While the success of the Switch 2 has given Nintendo reason to expand its outreach efforts, including movies and theme parks, the idea of a concert series remains uncertain.

Previous attempts at live performances have not always gone smoothly, with the planned Splatoon 3 concert being canceled due to threats made to staff and attendees. Despite these challenges, the engagement metrics from the Nintendo Music app could help the company gauge the feasibility of hosting concerts.

Fans hoping for such events are encouraged to keep supporting their favorite music tracks through the app, though it may be some time before any concert developments emerge.

Persona 5: The Phantom X has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 1.5 million downloads in the West. To celebrate this achievement, players will receive an in-game reward of 1,500 Meta Jewels, which allows them to make 10 free pulls on the game’s character banners. The game, which launched in the West on June 25, 2025, has earned instant acclaim as a gacha RPG, building on the successful legacy of Persona 5.

This title serves as a spin-off set in a parallel universe and originally launched exclusively in Asian markets in 2024. The anticipation was palpable, as more than a million users pre-registered for the game prior to its release. In just hours, Persona 5: The Phantom X became a hit on platforms like Steam, even breaking records for player counts held by Persona 5 Royal.

In a recent tweet, the developers expressed gratitude for players’ support, emphasizing that those who log in to the game before July 12, 2025, will be eligible for the rewards. To further enhance the gaming experience, additional pre-registration bonuses include 20 free pulls from both the Standard and Beginner banners. The Beginner banner features a special chance to pull 5-Star Phantom Thieves like Morgana, Ann, and Ryuji, while players can also benefit from free weapon pulls.

Looking ahead, the development team has ambitious plans, with Version 1.1 set to launch in July 2025, introducing Chapter 2 of the main story. Version 2.0 will follow, featuring Chapter 3 and a new location, Kichijoji. Fans can look forward to regular updates, special events, and new character debuts, ensuring excitement continues in this beloved RPG series.

Blizzard has announced balance changes for Diablo 4 Season 9, which will launch on July 1. Notable adjustments will be made to various Uniques, particularly for the Druid class. This comes in the wake of Season 8, which began on April 29 and introduced new features including a collaboration with the acclaimed Berserk manga and the return of Belial as a formidable boss. The upcoming Season 9, titled Sins of the Horadrim, will introduce a fresh questline requiring players to seek out and eliminate relics tainted by Astaroth’s blood. Additionally, a new seasonal mechanic, Horadric Spellcraft, will enable players to access spells such as Corrosive Vapor, Glacial Nimbus, Smoldering Ember, and Thunderous Particle.

As with previous seasons, Blizzard is implementing several changes to weapons and gear that players need to consider. The patch notes for the Season 9 update detail significant adjustments to various Uniques. For example, the Druid’s Greatstaff of the Crone will see an increase in Storm Strike’s power damage, boosting it from 170-250% to 200-350%. Additionally, the Dolmen Stone Ancestral Amulet will now enhance Boulder damage from 20-40% to 30-50%, making it more formidable.

Necromancer’s Bloodless Scream Ancestral Spear will receive notable affix changes as well. The Intelligence bonus will be standardized, while the Freeze Duration Affix will be replaced by Lucky Hit, which allows a chance to restore resources. Changes to the Lucky Hit affix will increase its chances significantly. For the Rogue class, the Eaglehorn Ancestral Bow will ensure that its Penetrating Shot ability always bounces at least once.

However, the Eyes in the Dark Ancestral Pants will experience a nerf, reducing the bonus damage of the Death Trap ability from 100-250% to 40-60%, although this bonus will now be consistently granted. While there is currently no definitive end date for Season 9, Blizzard plans to continue monitoring player feedback to inform future updates and balance changes throughout the season.

Recent leaks regarding Marvel Rivals have confirmed that Blade and Phoenix are set to join Season 3 of the game. This news has been anticipated for some time, and the latest revelations indicate that their introduction is imminent. Season 2 of Marvel Rivals commenced on April 11, featuring a theme centered around the Hellfire Gala, a pivotal event in the comics that celebrates the mutant nation.

NetEase introduced new maps, Krakoa and Arakko, alongside the addition of Emma Frost as a new playable Vanguard. Following Frost, Ultron was brought into the game, significantly expanding the roster of playable Strategists. Now, excitement builds as rumors circulate about the next characters to arrive.

On the Marvel Rivals Leaks subreddit, user VeniceArtime posted an image indicating that Blade and Phoenix will be part of Season 3. The post also highlights Twitch Drops slated for July, suggesting that “Phoenix and Blade will ignite the action in Season 3.” It mentions that the upcoming season, titled “Abyss Awaken,” will include new team-ups, rumored Venomized skins, and introduces “sizzling summer events,” hinting at the highly anticipated summer skins. Additionally, a significant leak in December 2024 noted Jean Grey/Phoenix as an upcoming character, along with features already available in the game, like Storm’s collaboration with Human Torch.

Fans have been eagerly awaiting Blade’s arrival, especially after his storyline in Season 1, where he is imprisoned by Dracula on the Central Park map. Various rumors suggest he is finally ready to make his debut. Speculation points to Marvel Rivals Season 3 launching on July 11, with a theme focusing on Klyntar.

This could mean a new map inspired by the symbiotes, with Knull as the primary antagonist. However, it’s essential to remember that these details are just speculation until officially confirmed by the developers.

Mintrocket has announced a delay for the highly anticipated In the Jungle DLC for Dave the Diver, which will now release in early 2026 instead of the previously planned late 2025. Despite this setback, the company has shared positive news regarding the game’s DLC offerings. Dave the Diver debuted to widespread acclaim on PC in June 2023 and subsequently launched on the Switch and PlayStation 5 in October 2023 and April 2024, respectively.

Since its release, the game has introduced several DLC packs, including the limited-time Godzilla Content Pack, which was originally launched in May 2024 but was removed from stores seven months later. Mintrocket initially announced that this pack would not return, creating surprise when it reappeared in late June 2025, coinciding with the game’s second anniversary. In addressing fans in a recent YouTube video, Mintrocket emphasized its ambition for the Dave the Diver franchise and noted that the re-listing of the Godzilla Content Pack would help alleviate concerns following the news of the delayed jungle DLC.

The developer clarified that the delay for In the Jungle is not due to technical difficulties but rather stems from wanting to incorporate additional ideas and content. In addition to the Godzilla Content Pack’s return, it has been confirmed that it will remain available until at least the end of 2026, thanks to a favorable licensing deal. Similarly, the Ichiban’s Holiday Content Pack from the Like a Dragon DLC has also been extended to match this timeline, ensuring both packs will be accessible for an extended period.

Overall, while the delay is unfortunate, the developer’s plans indicate exciting times ahead for fans of Dave the Diver.

Logitech has revealed which of its webcams are compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2. Despite Nintendo offering its own webcam for the console, several third-party cameras are also compatible. While the company did disclose the technical specifications needed for webcam functionality, it did not provide a list of specific models that meet these requirements.

The introduction of the new GameChat feature on the Nintendo Switch 2 has prompted early adopters to seek compatible cameras. The console carries a hefty price tag of $450, leading some gamers to look for cost-effective alternatives to the official $55 peripheral by using existing webcams. Innovative fans have even discovered ways to connect smartphone cameras to the Switch 2, though this requires additional cables.

Logitech has become the first major webcam manufacturer to clarify compatibility details with the Switch 2. For those without an official camera, Logitech’s reassurance comes as good news. The company has confirmed that all its webcam models, with the exception of the Logitech Brio 4K, are compatible with the new console.

This means that many Logitech webcams are a viable option, significantly reducing the cost barrier associated with purchasing a camera for the Switch 2. Some gamers might find a compatible Logitech webcam simply by searching through their old belongings, making it an attractive free alternative. Logitech has yet to announce plans to update the Brio 4K for compatibility.

However, it is possible for webcam manufacturers to implement firmware updates to address any compatibility issues. As Logitech sets this precedent, other companies may follow suit, providing Switch 2 users with even more options. While excitement is building around the camera features, currently, there are only a limited number of games that fully utilize them.

With the availability of more camera choices, it will be interesting to see if players opt for the official Nintendo camera or a more economical old Logitech model.

Independent game studio Sloclap has made a significant move with their soccer game, Rematch, by unveiling its first branded cosmetics collaboration with Puma. This partnership marks an exciting milestone for Rematch, adding a new layer of customization to the game’s vibrant and fast-paced soccer experience.

Since launching on June 19, Rematch has captured a sizable audience, boasting over 92,000 concurrent players on Steam on its first day. This impressive start can be attributed to the game’s innovative approach, which breaks from traditional soccer rules.

In Rematch, there are no fouls, offsides, or goal kicks. Instead, matches unfold in a closed arena where the action remains continuous, focusing entirely on dribbling, positioning, and scoring amidst fast-paced gameplay.

On June 27, the collaboration with Puma was officially announced, introducing the first fully branded cosmetic pack within the game. Players can now equip themselves with Puma jerseys, shorts, shin guards, and boots, all reflecting the brand’s distinct style.

The newly available items, designed with performance in mind, integrate Puma’s Future line, emphasizing their commitment to quality football gear. Sloclap has indicated that this collaboration is just the beginning, hinting at further content tied to the partnership.

Félix Garczynski, Head of Marketing & Publishing at Sloclap, stated that aligning with Puma—a brand embedded in both football and gaming—fits perfectly with Rematch’s ethos of energy and self-expression. Meanwhile, Puma’s Director of Emerging Marketing Technology highlighted that football is deeply rooted in Puma’s identity, making the collaboration a natural fit.

Despite the game’s rapid ascent, it has faced some challenges. Sloclap has been proactive in addressing these issues, implementing recent patches to fix gameplay glitches, including the “outfield dive” exploit and a wall dribbling bug.

The updates also enhance overall game stability, ensuring a smoother experience for players.

In an exciting development for fans of both franchises, Sega has partnered with Warner Bros. Discovery, Jakks Pacific, and Funko to introduce a new line of action figures and POP collectibles featuring a crossover between Sonic the Hedgehog and DC Comics. With the highly anticipated launch of the next Sonic title, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, fans will have the opportunity to enhance their collections with this latest merchandise.

Earlier in 2025, DC Comics released a crossover comic series showcasing Sonic the Hedgehog alongside the Justice League, where readers were treated to a fun blend of gaming and superhero culture. The series achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success, prompting Sega to expand its range of Sonic-related offerings, including new exclusive toy lines. In a further collaboration with Sega and Warner Bros.

Discovery, Jakks Pacific is set to unveil a fresh line of action figures inspired by the Sonic x DC crossover. These figures will showcase beloved characters such as Sonic, Silver, Shadow, Amy, The Flash, Green Lantern, Batman, and Wonder Woman. Additionally, Funko is releasing a series of POP figures that includes characters like Knuckles, Tails, Superman, and Cyborg.

Both the Jakks Pacific figures and Funko POPs are slated for exclusive release at Target during the retailer’s Summer Geek Out event, with the Jakks figures starting to ship on October 1. Fan favorites will emulate the designs seen in the comic books, such as Sonic as The Flash and Shadow as Batman. The Jakks Pacific action figure set, including Darkseid, is priced at $59.99, while individual figures are available for $14.99 each.

Funko’s POP figures, currently sold out for preorder, also feature all six crossover characters. Sega’s recent collaborations, including those with Magic: The Gathering and McLaren Racing, continue to excite fans and keep the anticipation for Sonic’s upcoming title high. Collectors are encouraged to act quickly to secure the Sonic x DC collectibles and stay updated on future merchandise announcements.

Microsoft is set to implement a significant change to one of Windows’ most well-known features: the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). This symbol of system failure and user frustration will be gradually phased out in the coming months. The BSOD has been an integral part of the Windows experience since the early 1990s, first appearing in Windows 3.1 and subsequently becoming a staple in Windows NT in 1993.

Over the years, it has gained a reputation for indicating unrecoverable system errors, especially after the addition of the “frowny face” and QR codes in Windows 8 and 10. Following the recent CrowdStrike outage that affected countless Windows devices, Microsoft decided to reevaluate its approach to system failures. In a new update for Windows 11 24H2 devices, Microsoft will replace the BSOD with a “Black Screen of Death.”

This new display, visually akin to the black screen encountered during updates, will omit the frowny face and QR codes. Instead, users will see a system stop code and the problematic driver responsible for the crash, which will simplify troubleshooting for IT professionals and advanced users without relying on external tools like WinDbg. This change is part of Microsoft’s broader Windows Resiliency Initiative, designed to enhance stability and accelerate recovery.

In addition to the new error display, Microsoft is introducing several features aimed at improving the overall user experience. Notable enhancements include Quick Machine Recovery (QMR), which enables devices to reboot and recover from crashes in approximately two seconds. Other features include Connected Cache for reducing bandwidth during updates, Universal Print for streamlined enterprise-level printing, and Hotpatch for installing monthly security updates without requiring a restart.

However, it’s important to mention that these updates will only apply to systems running Windows 11. Computers operating on Windows 10 will continue to display the classic BSOD, raising concerns as many PCs worldwide still utilize the older version.