Speculation: Call of Duty 2027 Aims to Redefine the Franchise’s Future Path

A recent rumor suggests that Sledgehammer Games is set to unveil a new Call of Duty installment in 2027, which would provide a break from the popular Modern Warfare and Black Ops subseries. Currently, fans are enjoying Black Ops 6, now in its fourth season.

The upcoming Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is already confirmed to take place in a futuristic setting post-Black Ops 2 and will feature the return of David Mason. This title is expected to have a significant presence at Gamescom in August, leading up to its rumored release on November 14.

As the youngest of the “Big Three” Call of Duty studios, Sledgehammer Games was established as a co-developer for 2011’s Modern Warfare 3. Since then, the studio has developed titles such as the futuristic Advanced Warfare in 2014, and the historical WW2 installments, including 2017’s Call of Duty: WW2 and 2021’s Vanguard.

Recently, Sledgehammer took the lead on this year’s Modern Warfare 3, part of the series’ reboot. In the context of the battle royale game Warzone, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 could represent a thematic shift.

According to the Twitter insider TheGhostOfHope, Sledgehammer’s next game will not be a sequel to Advanced Warfare but will launch a new subseries set in contemporary times. Interestingly, this new title will exclude the co-op Zombies mode that Sledgehammer has incorporated in previous titles.

Instead, gameplay will heavily feature dynamic movement mechanics and martial arts moves like kicks and chops. If accurate, this would mark the first non-Modern Warfare or Black Ops release in five years.

2022 and 2023 saw back-to-back Modern Warfare games, while Black Ops is also expected to continue its trend into 2024 and 2025. For fans eager for a fresh subseries after Vanguard’s lukewarm reception, this potential new direction is promising.

However, those hoping for a return to Advanced Warfare may need to wait longer. Fans should keep an eye on Gamescom for more details on Black Ops 7 and upcoming content for Black Ops 6.

Destiny 2’s Edge of Fate Reveals Worrying Trends for Bungie’s Popular Looter Shooter Game

Destiny 2, following the launch of its latest major expansion, is witnessing a noticeable decline in its player count, particularly among PC users. This month, the active player numbers are significantly lower compared to the launch of the previous expansion, The Final Shape, which debuted in June last year.

Throughout its decade-long existence, the Destiny series has experienced numerous fluctuations in player engagement, but many Guardians may have chosen to conclude their journeys with Destiny 2 after the conclusion of the Light and Darkness Saga in The Final Shape. Despite the declining player base, Bungie is not finished with Destiny 2.

The studio has ambitious plans as the latest expansion, Destiny 2: The Edge of Fate, ushers in a new chapter known as the Fate Saga. This expansion is the first of two expected releases this year, with a second expansion themed distinctly around Star Wars set to arrive on December 2.

Bungie is also revamping many of Destiny 2’s fundamental mechanics with the Edge of Fate expansion, affecting everything from the activity director to armor and character stats. The Edge of Fate centers on a fresh narrative involving the Nine and introduces a new location called Kepler.

However, statistics from Steam Charts indicate that there are far fewer Guardians to explore this expansion. On launch day, the peak player count on Steam was just 99,131, which is less than a third of the peak achieved during The Final Shape’s release, marking a concerning trend for the franchise.

It’s essential to note that these statistics pertain solely to Destiny 2’s Steam player base, but they likely mirror diminishing popularity across other platforms. Last year, around this time, player morale was notably higher, driven by the promise of a thrilling conclusion to Destiny 2’s narrative.

Today, the game’s decline can be attributed to players feeling dissatisfied for their investment of time, alongside a complex UI that tends to alienate newcomers. As the year progresses, it remains uncertain how Destiny 2 will navigate its lower player count.

Final Fantasy 14 Players Express Discontent Over Recently Introduced Cash Shop Items

The Crystarium Rebel’s Attire, a new addition to the cash shop in Final Fantasy 14, has sparked discontent among players due to its resemblance to existing items in the game. While this set has some distinct features, many fans are frustrated by the idea of selling it for real money. Final Fantasy 14’s online store offers a wide variety of items, including mounts, minions, and cosmetic glamour sets.

These outfits often mirror those worn by popular characters such as Y’shtola, G’raha Tia, and the Leveilleur twins, Alphinaud and Alisaie. However, the release of the Crystarium Rebel’s Attire, priced at $12, has raised eyebrows. The outfit is modeled after Alisaie’s gear from the Shadowbringers expansion, yet players have noted that they can achieve a similar look using existing in-game items like the Astral Silk Doublet and Angelic Thighboots.

While the new attire includes some minor design changes, such as different sleeve styles and red potions on the belt, many fans feel that these slight modifications do not justify the real-money price tag. The new glamour utilizes two dye channels introduced in the Dawntrail expansion and is accessible to all classes, which adds some value, yet it has not quelled the displeasure among the community. This scenario is not new for Final Fantasy 14 players.

In the past, items like Iceheart’s Attire and the Crystarium Prodigy’s Attire have faced similar scrutiny for resembling already available gear. With ongoing criticism directed at the cash shop, including dissatisfaction with recent offerings like the Belt-leather sets, fans are hopeful that Square Enix takes their feedback into account for future releases to avoid further backlash.

Grand Theft Auto 5 Launches in Two Regions After 12-Year Wait for Players Worldwide

As of today, Grand Theft Auto 5 (GTA 5) is finally accessible in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The game, part of Rockstar’s controversial crime simulator series, was banned in both nations for years, which was not unexpected given its provocative content.

However, over a decade since its initial release, the landscape has begun to change, providing a glimmer of hope for future games in the franchise. The Middle East is not typically characterized as a major gaming hub, yet recent developments indicate a growing acceptance of the industry.

Notably, in 2024, the International Olympic Committee announced that Saudi Arabia would host the inaugural Olympic eSports Games, which was originally slated for 2025 but has since been postponed to 2027. The lifting of bans on GTA 5 in both Saudi Arabia and the UAE is another step toward embracing gaming in the region.

On July 3, the General Authority of Media Regulation in Saudi Arabia confirmed that GTA 5 and GTA Online would be available starting July 17. Coinciding with this announcement, PlayStation Arabia revealed that the UAE would also release both games on the same date.

In Saudi Arabia, the games received a 21+ rating, stricter than the ESRB’s M rating, but still allows legal-age gamers to enjoy them after years of prohibition. The reversal of the ban is particularly interesting, especially given the game’s notably provocative mission and the duration of its previous restrictions.

This change could signify a relaxation of standards by the Saudi and UAE governments regarding bans. Alternatively, GTA 5 may not appear as mature as it did when launched.

For Rockstar, this news is promising; the game continues to perform well, with lifetime sales exceeding 215 million copies. The newfound availability in regions where it was once illegal could further boost these numbers.

Despite its age, GTA 5 provides players with an engaging experience while they await the release of the anticipated GTA 6 in 2026. Whether the next installment will be available in these regions remains uncertain, but regulators now have GTA 5 as a reference point for future decisions.

Yotei Directors Discuss Parallels Between Their Game and Assassin’s Creed: Shadows

Sucker Punch Productions’ directors, Nate Fox and Jason Connell, recently addressed the inevitable comparisons between their upcoming game, Ghost of Yotei, and Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Scheduled for release on October 2, Ghost of Yotei shares a similar setting, focusing on the final days of Feudal Japan, making it hard for fans to avoid linking the two titles given that AC Shadows launched earlier this year.

Ghost of Tsushima, which debuted in 2020, was a massive success, selling over 13 million units. Following this triumph, the sequel Ghost of Yotei was officially announced during the PlayStation State of Play in September 2024.

Set 300 years after its predecessor and featuring a new protagonist named Atsu, the game promises fresh mechanics and weaponry that enhance gameplay versatility. Notably, Atsu’s abilities are designed to offer players an engaging experience reminiscent of Star Wars: Jedi’s Cal Kestis.

In an interview with Game Informer, Fox and Connell were asked about their thoughts on the similarities with Assassin’s Creed Shadows and whether they felt any apprehension about the comparisons. Connell expressed a positive outlook, suggesting that creators can either feel intimidated or inspired by similar titles.

He emphasized that they are excited to see the gaming medium evolve and recognize Ubisoft’s contributions, acknowledging, “they make awesome games.” The comparisons between Ghost of Yotei and Assassin’s Creed Shadows seem inevitable due to their shared themes and statuses as high-profile AAA games.

While Assassin’s Creed Shadows enjoyed strong financial performance and received a critic score of 81 on OpenCritic, Ghost of Tsushima holds a slightly higher average score of 84. Ghost of Yotei, set in Hokkaido in 1603, contrasts with AC Shadows’ backdrop in central Japan from 1579.

For fans eager to experience Ghost of Yotei, there is a limited-time PS5 bundle available, including options for both the PS5 Pro and PS5 Slim, though supplies are limited.

Final Fantasy 14 Community Considers Boycott in Response to New Gear in Patch 7.3

Final Fantasy 14 fans are expressing dissatisfaction over a new set of dungeon gear inspired by Spanish conquistadors, which is set to be released with Patch 7.3 in August. While the armor is well-designed, the thematic connections have sparked outrage among some players. Many have taken to the game’s forums to voice their frustrations about the gear, calling it “a disappointment” and “offensive.” This wave of dissent has grown, with some fans even considering unsubscribing if the gear is added to the game.

Patch 7.3, titled The Promise of Tomorrow, is anticipated to wrap up the ongoing Dawntrail storyline and lay the groundwork for future developments in the acclaimed MMORPG. In addition to narrative enhancements, there are plans to increase housing availability on select servers, which could enhance player engagement. However, the dungeon gear’s controversial theme has overshadowed these upcoming features.

Players are particularly irked by the timing of the armor’s design. The setting for Dawntrail is heavily influenced by the Americas, with environments reminiscent of Central and South America. Since the Spanish conquistadors are historically linked to the colonization of these regions, many see the introduction of such gear at this juncture as “tone-deaf.”

This situation is not unprecedented for the game, as previous outfits have drawn criticism for cultural insensitivity. In 2023, the Saami Council protested against the Far Northern Attire, while another outfit drawn from Korean history faced less backlash because it was limited in distribution. With several controversies surrounding gear and aesthetics in Final Fantasy 14, the developers face growing pressure to respond effectively to the discontent within their community.

The hope is that they can address these issues while maintaining the creative vision that has endeared so many to the franchise.

Zelda Movie Cast Unveiled: Exciting News from Ubisoft, Donkey Kong, and More!

In the latest updates from the gaming world, there are some exciting announcements that have fans buzzing. The highly anticipated Legend of Zelda movie has officially found its stars, with the roles of Zelda and Link being confirmed.

This casting news has sparked excitement among fans who have been eagerly awaiting any details about the adaptation of the beloved video game franchise. In other noteworthy news, Ubisoft has made significant organizational changes by announcing new co-CEOs for its latest subsidiary.

This move is expected to steer the company in an innovative direction as it continues to develop and expand its portfolio. With the gaming industry constantly evolving, this leadership structure may position Ubisoft for even greater success in the competitive landscape.

Additionally, fans of the horror genre are paying close attention to recent hints dropped by the creator of Silent Hill, who is teasing a new project on the horizon. While specific details are still under wraps, this announcement has led to speculation and intrigue, particularly for those familiar with the franchise’s impactful legacy in gaming.

Further on the horizon, excitement is building around upcoming content related to beloved franchises like Donkey Kong, promising a blend of nostalgia and fresh experiences for players. The gaming community remains abuzz with these developments, eagerly anticipating how these projects will unfold.

Stay tuned to Game Rant for more insights and updates as the year progresses. The gaming industry is full of surprises, and fans can expect more thrilling news as creators unveil their latest ventures.

Pokemon GO Announces New Gigantamax Pokemon for Upcoming Max Battle Day Event

Pokemon GO is set to introduce Gigantamax Butterfree as the highlight of the upcoming Max Battle Day. This special event is scheduled for August 3, where players can catch this powerful new Pokemon and benefit from several limited-time bonuses to enhance their gaming experience. Max Battles were first launched in Pokemon GO during the autumn of 2024, enabling players to incorporate Dynamax and Gigantamax Pokemon into their collections.

Currently, nearly 70 Pokemon have the ability to undergo Dynamax transformations, enlarging their size. However, only about a dozen can perform Gigantamax transformations, which substantially change their appearance alongside boosting their power. Interestingly, two unexpected Pokemon have been appearing more frequently in the wild, leaving players curious about this phenomenon.

As announced by the game’s developers, the upcoming event will be the first time players can capture Gigantamax Butterfree in the mobile augmented reality game. Throughout the event, all Power Spots will host Max Battles with faster refresh rates, increasing the chances of encountering Gigantamax Butterfree. Players should prepare for a challenge, as this Pokemon will appear in six-star Max Battles.

Powerful allies, especially Rock, Flying, Fire, Electric, or Ice-type Pokemon, will be essential to counter Butterfree’s Bug/Flying-type attacks. The Max Battle Day will run on August 3, 2025, from 2:00-5:00 p.m. local time. As is routine during these events, players will enjoy several bonuses.

Max Particle limits will be relaxed, allowing players to carry up to 1,600 at a time, and Power Spots will dispense eight times their usual Max Particles. Beginning 14 hours before the event, players will earn double Max Particles from exploration, with the required adventuring distance reduced to just 25 percent of the normal amount. Additionally, daily Remote Raid Pass limits will be expanded to 20 starting at 5 p.m. on August 2.

Before the event, players can also catch a Dynamax Darumaka by completing timed research tasks beginning July 28. Both Butterfree and Darumaka have a chance to be shiny, appealing to shiny hunters. Those who purchase an event ticket for $4.99 will gain even higher Max Particle limits and double experience from Max Battles, alongside receiving a Max Mushroom and 25,000 XP.

As you prepare for this exciting event, don’t forget that you can compete against other Pokemon GO trainers online through the GO Battle League. This global sensation, downloaded over 1 billion times, invites you to explore, catch Pokémon, and take part in epic battles. Get ready for your real-life adventures—it’s time to go!

Destiny 2 Announces Key Upcoming Fixes and Updates for Players

Bungie has outlined several crucial fixes for Destiny 2 in the week following the launch of its latest expansion, The Edge of Fate, which was released on July 15. The company is addressing various player-reported issues, including bugs that hinder progression in the campaign. Some of these fixes are expected as early as July 18. The Edge of Fate introduces players to Kepler, a new destination in the solar system, marking the beginning of a multi-year Fate saga.

This expansion presents a new narrative involving the mysterious Nine, a character named Lodi, and Orin the Lost, who fans previously recognized as the Emissary of the Nine. Alongside these narrative elements, players also gain access to new activities, legendary loot, and Exotics, typical of Destiny 2 expansions. However, many have reported bugs that impede their campaign advancement. As of July 17, Bungie’s official Twitter account acknowledged ongoing issues and the team’s commitment to investigating player reports.

Several fixes are planned over the next week and a half, with a hotfix set to be released by July 19. This hotfix will address blocking issues for players’ secondary characters, bugs that wipe Unstable Cores upon creating alternate characters, and crashes specifically affecting Xbox users. Upcoming fixes include those scheduled for hotfix 9.0.0.3 on July 22. These will resolve ammo gain issues on certain grenade launchers and improve performance in the Kepler area, among other adjustments.

A second hotfix, 9.0.0.4, is anticipated on July 29, aiming to tackle motion sickness and visual glitches, as well as the malfunctioning Tangled Web perk. Bungie is also aware of high-priority issues still under investigation, such as audio problems on PlayStation 5 and crashes on PlayStation 4 when entering the Tower. These updates demonstrate Bungie’s responsiveness to player feedback and their commitment to enhancing the Destiny 2 experience.

Pokemon Enthusiast Unveils Creative Redesigns for Hoenn Starters and Their Evolved Forms

A talented Pokémon fan artist has shared remarkable redesigns of the evolutionary lines of Treecko, Torchic, and Mudkip, capturing the attention of the Pokémon community. These reimagined versions of the Generation 3 starters, which were first introduced in Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire, have become favorites among fans, who often engage in redesigning their beloved characters.

Redesigning Pokémon has become a popular hobby for many enthusiasts, especially when it comes to starter Pokémon. With nine generations of starters released, Generation 3 is widely regarded as having one of the best starter trios.

Artists frequently share their interpretations of these Pokémon, showcasing their creative talents. Recently, a Reddit user known as dukepinball posted stylized artwork that presented an alternative take on these iconic Pokémon, impressing fans with a meticulous and thoughtful approach that retained each character’s essence while introducing fresh concepts.

In this artist’s redesign, the Treecko line drew inspiration from the tracktail lizards featured in Monster Hunter, showcasing Treecko balancing on one tail, Grovyle on two, and Sceptile on three tails. Sceptile’s typing was re-envisioned as Grass/Psychic, incorporating a pose reminiscent of Mega Alakazam while utilizing hovering seed bombs instead of spoons.

The redesign of the Fire-type starter evolutionary line took a unique turn, transforming Torchic and Combusken’s plumes into candle flames, while Blaziken’s arms became elaborately styled candelabras. This Blaziken also became associated with the Egyptian sun god Ra, complete with a Cofagrigus emblem.

Its typing shifted to Fire/Ghost, and it gained two modes altering its abilities. Finally, the Mudkip line underwent a futuristic change, with Marshtomp and Swampert adorned with water-filled helmets and metallic accessories to emphasize an astronaut theme.

Swampert’s typing was redefined as Water/Steel. Observant fans noted connections to the Mega Man universe, which was later confirmed by dukepinball, as each Pokémon’s design drew from iconic Robot Masters like Plant Man, Pharaoh Man, and Bubble Man.