Monthly Archives: June 2025

Business, Featured, Games, Gaming, Hardware/Console, News, Xbox

Xbox & AMD celebrates 20 years of partnership looking to the future of gaming

Twenty years ago, Microsoft and AMD embarked on a journey that would redefine console gaming. From the GPU breakthroughs in the Xbox 360 era to the semi-custom chips powering Xbox Series X|S, their partnership has consistently pushed the boundaries of performance and efficiency. Today, as they mark two decades of collaboration, both companies are laying out a roadmap for an even broader ecosystem—one that spans living-room consoles, portable handhelds, Windows PCs, and the cloud.

Lisa Su, AMD’s Chair and CEO, captured the spirit of their relationship: “Building on two decades of partnership, innovation, and trust, we will extend our console work to design a full roadmap of gaming-optimized chips combining the power of Ryzen and Radeon for consoles, handhelds, PCs, and cloud.”[1] That lineage began in the mid-2000s, when AMD (then including ATI) first supplied graphics silicon for Xbox platforms, and has blossomed across three console generations.

Powering the Next Generation

On June 19, 2025, Xbox President Sarah Bond unveiled a strategic, multi-year partnership with AMD to co-engineer silicon across an entire portfolio of devices:

  • Home consoles (the yet-to-be-named next-gen Xbox)
  • Handhelds (Xbox-branded portable systems)
  • Windows gaming PCs (ensuring Windows remains “the number one platform for gaming”)
  • Cloud infrastructure (Azure-hosted Xbox streaming services)
  • Accessories (controllers, headsets, and more)
    “Together with AMD, we are advancing the state of the art in gaming silicon,” Bond said, “delivering deeper visual quality and immersive gameplay—enhanced with the power of AI—while maintaining compatibility with your existing library of Xbox games.”

A Portfolio Approach to Xbox

Rather than viewing Xbox as a single box under the TV, Microsoft is embracing an ecosystem model. In a video presentation, Bond highlighted:

  • Console in the living room
  • Portable gaming via upcoming handhelds
  • PC gaming experiences optimized for Xbox technologies
  • Cloud-only experiences (“This is also an Xbox, by itself.”)

Backwards compatibility remains central: every new device will play your existing Xbox library, whether it’s a decade-old classic or this year’s blockbuster.

According to reporting by Tom’s Hardware, this renewed pact covers multiple future console generations and portable devices:

  • Semi-custom SoCs combining AMD’s latest Zen CPU cores and RDNA GPU architectures
  • Maintained x86-based CPU design to ensure seamless backward compatibility
  • Enhanced AI features baked into silicon for smarter NPCs, dynamic physics, and real-time upscaling
  • Expected launch cadence mirroring past cycles—if Xbox Next follows the Scarlett timeline, look for a holiday 2026 release[2]

Bond’s promise: higher performance “while maintaining compatibility with your existing library of Xbox games” alludes to a transition that gamers can make without leaving their collections behind.

The surprise of the announcement wasn’t just a new box under the TV, but Xbox-branded handhelds co-engineered with AMD. Although ASUS’s ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X have already previewed the concept, Microsoft’s direct involvement signals a full-throttle push into portable gaming, leveraging AMD’s low-power RDNA designs and custom Ryzen cores to rival—and surpass—the Steam Deck and its imitators.

With this agreement, Xbox and AMD have set the stage for:

  • Unified development (one SDK for console, PC, handheld, and cloud)
  • Seamless cross-device saves and achievements
  • AI-accelerated graphics features (DLSS-style upscaling, real-time lighting, smarter world simulation)
  • Expanded Game Pass integration on Windows and portable hardware

As we approach the 20th anniversary, expect more deep dives from both companies—technical previews of the new silicon, developer showcases at Xbox Developer_Direct events, and early hardware teardowns that reveal the next leap in gamer-centric silicon design.

Games, Gaming, News

Borderlands 4 – What to expect including prices and requirements

Borderlands 4 is gearing up to be one of the year’s biggest looter-shooters—and Gearbox has finally peeled back the curtain on the essentials. From how much vault hunters will pay, to the fallout over Randy Pitchford’s “real fan” comment, and the hardware you’ll need to run it, here’s the lowdown on everything officially confirmed.

Gearbox has laid out three main ways you can grab Borderlands 4 at launch:

  • Standard Edition – $69.99
    Includes only the base game. This is the go-to if you just want to jump into Pandora and leave DLC decisions for later.
  • Deluxe Edition – $100
    Base game + Pre-order “Gilded Glory Pack” (skins & drone cosmetics) + Bounty Pack Bundle, which contains four post-launch DLC packs (unique areas, missions, bosses, gear, vault cards, cosmetics, vehicles).
  • Super Deluxe Edition – $130
    Everything in Deluxe, plus the “Vault Hunter Pack”—two new playable Vault Hunters, two story expansions (with new regions, side missions, gear, and cosmetics), and an extra cosmetic bundle. [3]
  • Collector’s Edition – $150
    Gear-focused box of swag (statues, artbook, etc.) Does not include the game itself. Perfect if you already pre-ordered digitally but want the physical goodies.

Note: There will be both free and paid DLC post-launch, but only the paid packs are bundled in these higher editions.

The Randy Pitchford Price Drama

Late May 2025 saw Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford stir up the community over price expectations:

  1. $80 Rumor Ignites
    A fan speculated that Borderlands 4 might hit $80. Pitchford replied on X (formerly Twitter) that “if you’re a real fan, you’ll find a way to make it happen,” adding “it’s not my call” on pricing. [4]
  2. Backlash and Clarification
    The “real fan” line was widely criticized as tone-deaf. Pitchford later tweeted that “nobody likes being taken for granted and it was not my intent,” but stood by the game’s value.
  3. Final Word on Price
    Publisher 2K then confirmed the standard edition would land at $69.99—$10 less than the feared $80—while reiterating the $100 and $130 tiers for Deluxe and Super Deluxe. [4]

This saga highlights the fine line between transparent dev-talk and community trust—especially when price points are rising industry-wide.

3. Official PC Requirements

Gearbox has published minimum and recommended specs on Steam. Make sure your rig measures up:

RequirementMinimumRecommended
OSWindows 10 (64-bit)Windows 10 (64-bit)
CPUIntel Core i7-9700 / AMD Ryzen 7 2700XIntel Core i7-12700 / AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
GPUNvidia RTX 2070 / AMD RX 5700 XTNvidia RTX 3080 / AMD RX 6800 XT
VRAM8 GB12 GB
System RAM16 GB32 GB
Storage100 GB SSD100 GB SSD

Although these are listed as “minimum,” Gearbox suggests there may be some wiggle room—e.g., if you have a four-core CPU with SMT or a slightly older GPU, you might still get by with lower settings.

  • Release Date: September 12, 2025 (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S; Switch 2 date TBD).
  • Pre-order Bonuses: Early bird Gilded Glory Pack (skins + ECHO-4 drone).
  • Crossplay & Progression: Confirmed PC–console crossplay, but cross-progression details are pending.
  • Post-Launch Roadmap: Gearbox teased free seasonal events alongside paid DLC drops—expect a detailed roadmap at the Summer Game Fest showcase.

Gearbox has answered the loudest questions—price, required hardware, and even faced down CEO mic-drops. If you’ve been holding off, now’s the time to decide how deep you want to dive into the vaults on day one.

Breaking, Featured, Games, Gaming, News, PC

Nexus Mod has been sold and founder retires

When a platform becomes synonymous with an entire hobby, its sale marks more than a business transaction—it signals a cultural shift. On June 16, 2025, Nexus Mods, the undisputed king of PC game mod repositories, announced that its founder, Robin “Dark0ne” Scott, has sold the site after steering it for nearly a quarter-century. What began as a one-man bedroom project to support The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind has grown into a global community hub, and now it embarks on a new chapter under fresh leadership.

From Bedroom Fan Site to Global Modding Powerhouse

In 2001, armed with a 56k modem and a passion for the upcoming release of Morrowind, Scott launched a simple fansite in his bedroom. He never intended to build an empire—his sole aim was ensuring modders had a safe, reliable place to share creations that might otherwise vanish with the next shuttered fansite or indifferent publisher[4].

By 2007, the site rebranded publicly as “Nexus Mods,” reflecting its evolution into a centralized repository. Over the next two decades, it ballooned to host over 716,500 mods spanning 3,768 games, becoming the default destination for texture overhauls, quest expansions, and community-driven total conversions alike[5].

Nexus Mods distinguishes itself not just by its vast download library, but by the ecosystem it provides:

  • Vortex Mod Manager: A one-stop application for installing, updating, and managing mods across hundreds of titles.
  • Forums & Social Hubs: Spaces where mod authors troubleshoot installation quirks, collaborate on joint projects, and nurture friendships forged over shared technical headaches.
  • Update Infrastructure: Automated version control and dependency tracking that keep sprawling mod setups from collapsing into chaos.

These pillars have cemented Nexus Mods as not merely a hosting site, but a thriving social and technical infrastructure for PC gaming enthusiasts.

The Toll of Being “On Call” for 24 Years

Behind every mod upload, forum thread, and software patch lay Scott’s relentless vigilance. In a heartfelt blog post, he described how the constant responsibility—being “on call” every day—became a source of profound anxiety and health problems. Fixing server outages at 2 AM, mediating heated community debates, and overseeing feature rollouts all added up to burnout that began affecting both his well-being and his staff[3][1].

Scott wrote, “The stress of being responsible for the behemoth I created has taken its toll … I firmly believe that the best thing for the future of Nexus Mods is for me to step aside and bring in new leadership to steer the business forward with renewed energy”.

Details of the new ownership remain murky. Scott revealed that individuals named Victor, Marinus, and Nikolai will guide Nexus Mods into its next phase, but he stopped short of naming their company. Community sleuths on ResetEra have linked the trio to a Danish growth-focused gaming outfit called Chosen, though neither party has officially confirmed the connection.

Despite this opacity, Scott insists the core principles won’t waver: Nexus Mods will stay “community-first and mod-author focused.” He’s leaving the platform in the hands of a 40-strong team—many of whom have devoted nearly a decade to the site—and plans to remain a lurking presence in the forums whenever nostalgia pulls him back.

What Lies Ahead for Nexus Mods?

With fresh leadership, the questions on everyone’s mind are:

  • Will monetization strategies shift? (Chosen’s founders have dabbled in in-app purchases, sparking cautious debate among users[5].)
  • How will site stability and feature development evolve?
  • Can the new team maintain the delicate balance between user freedom and sustainable operations?

For now, the interface hasn’t budged, the upload queues hum on, and the community continues trading load orders as if nothing has changed.

Nexus Mods began as a bedroom experiment and matured into a foundational pillar of PC gaming culture. Its sale marks the close of one chapter and the dawn of another—where a new generation of stewards must honor the site’s roots while navigating the commercial realities of today’s gaming ecosystem. As “Dark0ne” steps back, modders and players worldwide will watch closely, hopeful that the spirit of sharing and creativity that defined the platform for 24 years will thrive for another 24 and beyond.

An Update From Dark0ne
After almost 24 years of running Nexus Mods, the time has come for me to step back from the day-to-day management of the site. This isn’t a decision I’ve made lightly – far from it – but one I think i…
Source/Via

Games, Gaming, News

We could already have Grand Theft Auto VI ages ago according to a leaked rumor

In the world of gaming, few titles carry the weight and anticipation of Grand Theft Auto VI. With Rockstar Games’ legacy of genre-defining open-world experiences, expectations are sky-high. But according to recent rumors, the road to GTA VI has been anything but smooth—allegedly involving not one, not two, but three full story reboots. Let’s dive into the details of this fascinating development saga.

Once again, I am bending the “no rumors” rule because I find the revelation interesting and have the logical explanation about why development has taken so ridiculously long and not because “the newest peak of perfection” that Rockstar Games have been teasing for years.

The First Vision: A Noir Thriller with Three Protagonists

The earliest rumored version of GTA VI was reportedly a gritty detective story, described as “worthy of a thriller,” featuring three protagonists. This narrative was in development until late 2016 and was said to explore darker, more mature themes than previous entries. However, publisher Take-Two Interactive allegedly found the tone too bleak and ultimately vetoed the project.

The Second Attempt: A Chaotic Duo

The second iteration shifted gears dramatically. This version centered on two characters: a policewoman and a drug smuggler’s underling—described as being “as crazy as Trevor from GTA V.” This dynamic pairing promised a volatile and unpredictable storyline. Despite 18 months of development, this version too was scrapped, reportedly for failing to meet internal expectations.

The Third Pitch: Redemption and Descent

The third and final rumored reboot retained the dual-protagonist structure but swapped the policewoman for a new character: an African-American former soldier, recently released from prison and drawn into the criminal underworld. This version was said to be canceled in March 2019, marking the third major narrative overhaul.

One of the most striking claims tied to these reboots is their alleged role in the departure of Dan Houser, Rockstar’s co-founder and longtime creative lead. The repeated cancellations and mounting pressure may have contributed to his decision to step down from his role as Vice President of Creative.

While these rumors remain unconfirmed and should be taken with a grain of salt, they offer a compelling glimpse into the high-stakes world of AAA game development. If true, they help explain the unusually long development cycle and the intense secrecy surrounding GTA VI.

Rockstar has since revealed a new direction for the game, including a Latina protagonist named Lucia and a setting inspired by modern-day Vice City. Whether this final vision lives up to the hype remains to be seen—but if the rumors are any indication, it’s a version that survived a gauntlet of creative reinvention.

GTA 6’s Story Was Rejected Three Times, Causing Dan Houser to Step Down, It’s Claimed
An interesting leak has revealed that Rockstar worked on and canceled three versions of GTA 6, causing Dan Houser to leave the company.
Source/Via
Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo, PC

Yet another big week for Stellar Blade

Stellar Blade exploded onto the scene as a PlayStation 5 exclusive in April 2024, winning hearts with fluid, Souls-like combat and jaw-dropping visuals. Just over a year later, its leap to PC has rewritten expectations for single-player action games—and Shift Up isn’t done yet. Below we break down the PC launch’s jaw-dropping numbers, the community’s response, the confirmed sequel roadmap, and the swirling rumors of a Nintendo Switch 2 edition.

When Stellar Blade debuted on PS5, it immediately topped pre-order charts in more than 60 countries. Critics and players alike praised its lightning-fast combos, striking art direction, and moody sci-fi worldbuilding—earning a 9.2 user score on Metacritic and winning eight categories in the PlayStation Blog’s Game of the Year awards (over 1.6 million votes cast).

A Record-Shattering PC Launch

On June 11, Stellar Blade landed on Steam and promptly sold over 1 million copies within its first three days—a first for any Sony-published single-player title on PC. It soared into Steam’s global Top 10 bestsellers for June, reached a peak concurrent player count north of 190,000, and has maintained an “Overwhelmingly Positive” review rate above 94 %[1][3][4]. Rate-boosting technical bells and whistles—including NVIDIA DLSS 4 and AMD FSR 3 upscaling/frame generation, high-res textures, uncapped frame rates, and ultrawide support—have let high-end rigs and Steam Deck alike run smoothly even during the toughest boss fights.

Analyst Daniel Ahmad notes that a majority of PC sales stem from China, where a freshly added Chinese dub and regionally adjusted pricing (roughly $38 vs. $60 in the US) have unlocked mass appeal. This surge continues a broader trend of Asian PC gamers embracing premium single-player blockbusters.

Shift Up marked the PC launch with a cross-IP event featuring its own Goddess of Victory: NIKKE, delivering a NIKKE-themed map, skins, minigame, boss fight, and more. Meanwhile, modders have embraced Stellar Blade wholeheartedly—so much so that director Kim Hyung-tae has publicly challenged them to create deeper gameplay expansions beyond the hundreds of cosmetic and “adult” mods already circulating.

Looking Ahead: Sequel Development

Buoyed by over 3 million copies sold across PS5 and PC, Shift Up has confirmed a sequel targeting release on or before 2027. The team acknowledges the original’s narrative was pared down—many cutscenes and deeper story beats (like Eve’s outfit changes) were axed for budgetary reasons—and promises Stellar Blade 2 will feature a richer, more serious storyline backed by a fuller cutscene roster now that resources have opened up.

The Switch 2 Question: Rumor vs. Reality

Rumors surfaced in mid-June that Shift Up quietly secured Nintendo Switch 2 developer kits and has begun platform-specific optimization for the console’s lower power profile. Korean outlet PlayForum claims initial work is underway on a Switch 2 port, part of a broader multiplatform strategy to expand beyond PlayStation[16]. However, in direct comments to PlayForum, a Shift Up representative stressed that “nothing has been confirmed regarding the development of the Nintendo Switch 2” edition, leaving fans to weigh hope against official silence.

Stellar Blade’s PC launch isn’t just a win for Shift Up and Sony—it’s proof there’s untapped hunger for premium single-player experiences on PC and (possibly) beyond. Between record sales, an energized mod community, a confirmed sequel, and the tantalizing prospect of a Switch 2 port, Stellar Blade stands poised to become one of the decade’s most intriguing new IPs. Whether you’re gearing up for Eve’s next adventure in 2027 or simply diving into the heightened PC experience now, Stellar Blade’s saga is far from over.

eSport, Events, Games, Gaming, News

CEO 2025 defined the first half of 2025 for the FGC world

CEO 2025 returned to Orlando, Florida (hosted at the Rosen Shingle Creek) from June 13–15, marking its 15th annual iteration. The event filled more than 200,000 square feet with world-class competition, drawing over 4,000 competitors across 19 official games and a host of side tournaments. Its lineup not only featured the established circuit titles but also shined a spotlight on community-run brackets and indie-friendly events. With a multi-channel streaming setup (11 Twitch channels streamed the games live), the organizers ensured that fans around the world had uninterrupted access to every match and schedule update.

Detailed Tournament Results and Announcements

Super Smash Bros. Melee

One of the most talked-about moments was the Super Smash Bros. Melee bracket, headlined by none other than Hungrybox. Despite an early hiccup that forced him to switch controllers mid-game, Hungrybox established a remarkable 7–1 record to secure the championship. His journey was filled with dramatic highs—intense rallies against top pros like Wizzrobe—and emotional expressions of triumph reminiscent of his Evo victories. His win not only added another prestigious title to his resume (following a recent Genesis X2 victory) but also resonated deeply with fans, making for one of the most memorable moments of the weekend.

Results

  1. Onin (Steve)
  2. MU|ApolloKage (Snake)
  3. SR|Kola (Roy, Cloud)
  4. Ploopy (Mr. Game & Watch)
  5. HyperKirby (Roy)

Street Fighter 6

As an official Capcom Pro Tour event, Street Fighter 6 saw a massive turnout with nearly 840 entrants. The tournament not only served as a qualifier for the Capcom Cup but also featured the debut of the new game patch (including the long-awaited introduction of Elena and a special Switch 2 launch). Top-tier competitors clashed in high-stakes matches, with the bracket reflecting both the evolving metagame and fresh strategic approaches from players adapting to the update. Each win in the tournament pushed competitors closer to earning an invite to the Esports World Cup, making every match a critical battle.

Results

  1. DRX|Leshar (Mai, Terry, Ed)
  2. Falcons|NL (Akuma)
  3. FLY|Punk (Cammy, Ryu)
  4. KSG|Zhen (M. Bison, Dee Jay)
  5. FAV|Ryukichi (Ken)

Tekken 8

Tekken 8’s tournament was billed as a Master Tier event on the Tekken World Tour, drawing approximately 650 players who fought for one of four qualification spots. The matches were fierce and strategically complex, with players like Falcons|Atif and DNF|Ulsan delivering standout performances. The tournament results not only determined the advancement of the top eight but also signaled important shifts in player lineups and game strategies heading into the global finals.

Results

  1. Falcons|Atif (Anna, Dragunov)
  2. DNF|Ulsan (Lars, Dragunov, Reina)
  3. TM|Arslan Ash (Nina, Zafina, Anna)
  4. VIT|JeonDDing (Eddy)
  5. DNF|Meo-IL (JACK-8, Victor)

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves

In the Fatal Fury segment, competitors vied in what was also a qualifying event for the SNK World Championship. The bracket—featuring over 460 skilled players—boasted a dramatic series of matches where the “Lone Wolves” eventually emerged victorious in an intense night of competition. The title’s evolution, complete with significant meta changes, demanded that players adapt quickly, and those who could, claimed their valuable spots for the next level of international play.

Results

  1. KSG|Xiaohai (Billy, Hotaru)
  2. Saishunkan|Nemo (Billy)
  3. IGZIST|KojiKOG (Billy)
  4. Falcons|E.T. (Hokutomaru)
  5. Reject|Laggia (Hotaru)

Mortal Kombat 1

At Mortal Kombat 1, recognized as a Kombatant Tier event on the Mortal Kombat Pro Kompetition circuit, players competed for two crucial qualification chances. With high-energy battles punctuating the tournament, every round was a test of both strategy and raw fighting talent. The tournament further cemented CEO 2025’s role as a gateway to the global stage for serious competitors in one of the most iconic fighting game franchises.

Results

  1. STG|Onlinecale213 (Kung Lao, Homelander, T-1000)
  2. 2G|SnakeDoe (Havik)
  3. PAR|Rewind (Reiko, Ermac)
  4. Grr (Geras)
  5. Rez|Dyloch (General Shao)

Additional Titles and Community Engagement

Beyond the marquee qualifiers, CEO 2025 also hosted tournaments for titles such as Guilty Gear Strive, Brawlhalla, and several legacy games like Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike. The Brawlhalla Mid-Season Championship, in particular, introduced innovative gameplay elements (like the new Chakram weapon), which not only refreshed the competitive dynamics but also stirred excitement among returning fans.

On the side, community-run brackets spanned titles including Killer Instinct, Marvel vs. Capcom 2, and Vampire Savior—further underlining CEO 2025’s commitment to embracing the diversity of the fighting game community. In addition, the Jebailey World 24-hour arcade experience kept the event buzzing with indie games and tabletop activities, ensuring that every moment was filled with entertainment

Guilty Gear Strive — Results

  1. Kshuewhatdamoo (Johnny)
  2. TSM|Leffen (Happy Chaos)
  3. FLY|NitroNY (Leo, Giovanna, Jack-O)
  4. PAR|Jack (Happy Chaos)
  5. TNS|MFCR (Leo)

Granblue Fantasy Versus Rising — Results

  1. PAR|Zane (Grimnir)
  2. ONi|BlueSkyGuyBSG (Vaseraga)
  3. PAR|BEPaw (Ferry, Metera)
  4. GGC|Real Ice (Zeta)
  5. CHJ|CharCharRealSmooth (Vira)

Super Smash Bros. Melee — Results

  1. Liquid|Hungrybox (Jigglypuff)
  2. Envy|Wizzrobe (Captain Falcon)
  3. Spiral|MOF (Ice Climbers)
  4. DTL|Wevans (Samus)
  5. JChu (Pikachu)

Brawlhalla — Results

  1. Iores (Dusk)
  2. LGN|BalloonBoy (Vivi)
  3. SiB|Wess (Tezca, Red Raptor)
  4. Acno? (Diana, Ragnir)
  5. Kingdom|Kyna (Teros)

Under Night In-Birth 2 [Sys:celes] — Results

  1. BBB|Defiant (Hyde, Akatsuki, Londrekia)
  2. PAR|BigBlack (Byakuya)
  3. PCF|!ssei (Hyde)
  4. LAGr|Argen (Waldstein)
  5. Malarky (Nanase, Wagner)

Rivals of Aether 2 — Results

  1. SC|Sophilo (Zetterburn)
  2. CakeAssault (Forsburn, Fleet)
  3. Ant (Ranno)
  4. LG|Marlon (Orcane)
  5. Elkiies (Maypul)

Street Fighter 3: 3rd Strike — Results

  1. TMG|MOV (Chun-Li)
  2. FrankieBFG (Ken)
  3. Arlieth (Makoto)
  4. Justin Wong (Chun-Li)
  5. ONIC|NYChrisG (Ken, Chun-Li, Yang, Sean)

Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 — Results

  1. TNS|LiberalTerminator (Nova, Spencer, Dr. Doom)
  2. MASH|Escalante (Magneto, Morrigan, Dr. Doom)
  3. FLY|RayRay (Magneto, Dr. Doom, Sentinel)
  4. ONIC|NYChrisG (Morrigan, Dr. Doom, Vergil)
  5. Mothman (M.O.D.O.K., Morrigan, Phoenix)

BlazBlue: Central Fiction — Results

  1. XCaliburBladez (Carl)
  2. 7C|Don (Relius)
  3. Fuzzama (Hazama)
  4. MTE|Killakobes (Bang)
  5. Quetzagoatl (Susanoo)

Capcom vs. SNK 2 — Results

  1. Coates|Bas (A-Groove: Yamazaki, M. Bison, Blanka)
  2. Justin Wong (C-Groove: Sagat)
  3. EricTurbo (A-Groove: Blanka, Sakura, M. Bison | A-Groove: Iori, Sakura, Blanka)
  4. Silentscope (K- Groove: Chang, Morrigan, Rugal)
  5. CEO|Jebailey (K-Groove: Cammy, Hibiki, Blanka | Others)

Super Street Fighter 2: Turbo — Results

  1. ZombieDamage (Fei Long)
  2. Damdai (O. Ken, O. Ryu, Ryu)
  3. Washed09er (Balrog, Vega)
  4. Silentscope (Cammy)
  5. Zoolander (Dee Jay)

Dragon Ball FighterZ — Results

  1. LegendaryyMuffin (Super Baby 2, Master Roshi, Krillin)
  2. Lucar (Trunks, Videl, Android 16)
  3. GarlicBread (Super Baby 2, Captain Ginyu, Krillin)
  4. PAR|Zane (Goku Black, Fused Zamasu, Beerus)
  5. VIT|CientifiKOF (Blue Gogeta, SS4 Gogeta, Vegito)

Guilty Gear Xrd REV 2 — Results

  1. KTP (May)
  2. DC|Mystic (Baiken)
  3. FF|ElvenShadow (Faust)
  4. Yousagi (Johnny)
  5. Foo (Kum)

Guilty Gear XX Accent Core +R — Results

  1. Hotta (Justice)
  2. FF|ElvenShadow (Faust)
  3. EX Jejsbee (May)
  4. Dummy (Robo-Ky)
  5. TSB|Pandabetic (Faust)

Florida vs. The World 10v10 Exhibition (Ultimate Marvel Vs Capcom 3) — Results

Team Florida

  • NickBad (Captain America, Deadpool, Strider)
  • FLY|Punk (Wolverine, Dr. Doom,. Vergil)
  • Hyorinmaru9th (Chun-Li, Morrigan, Phoenix)
  • KJMasta (Morrigan, Dr. Doom, Vergil)
  • Jc6666 (Captain America, Dr. Doom, Dormammu)
  • Ronan Healy (Taskmaster, Dr. Doom, Sentinel)
  • Tjinr (Hulk, Sentinel, Haggar)
  • Flocker (Zero, Vergil, Hawkeye)
  • Syntax (Nova, Spencer, Magneto)
  • LiberalTerminator (Nova, Spencer, Dr. Doom)

Team The World

  • FrankieG (Magneto, Dr. Doom, Vergil)
  • DualKevin (Deadpool, Dante, Hawkeye)
  • TA Wolf (Haggar, Spencer, Dr. Doom)
  • iDom (Dante, Dormammu, Dr. Strange)
  • 1nsiide (Wesker, Sentinel, C. Viper)
  • TT|Dylnyan (Zero, Dr. Doom, Dante)
  • Mothman (M.O.D.O.K., Morrigan, Phoenix)
  • Romora (Zero, Dr. Doom, Vergil)
  • MASH|Escalante (Magneto, Morrigan, Dr. Doom)
  • FLY|RayRay (Magneto, Dr. Doom, Sentinel)

CEO 2025 proved to be more than just a tournament series—it was an immersive celebration of skill, community, and evolving gaming cultures. The high-caliber results, from Hungrybox’s unforgettable Melee championship to the nail-biting finishes in Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, Fatal Fury, and Mortal Kombat 1, have set the stage for the coming global qualifiers and championship events. Moving forward, fans and competitors alike will be keeping a close eye on how these tournaments shape the competitive landscape and influence future game balancing and strategic shifts in the FGC.

If you’re curious to explore bracket specifics—such as the complete rankings in Street Fighter 6 or the top eight breakdown for Tekken 8—or want to discuss how CEO 2025 might impact the esports calendar for the rest of the year, there’s plenty more to dive into. The evolving storylines from this year’s event continue to inspire the community as they look toward new challenges in upcoming tournaments.

Business, Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

Breaking Down Sony Investor Day 2025: PlayStation’s Next-Level Play

This week’s Sony Investor Day wasn’t just another earnings call—it was a full-throttle, 360° look at how PlayStation plans to dominate the next console generation. From beefy financial targets to jaw-dropping game Sony Investor Day 2025: Powering PlayStation’s Next Chapter.

On June 13, Sony laid out its long-term PlayStation game plan—teasing future hardware, celebrating PlayStation 5’s momentum, doubling down on services, and fine-tuning its content strategy. Here’s what matters most for gamers and investors alike.

Future Platforms: PS6 “Top of Mind”

Sony’s leadership confirmed that the next PlayStation console is firmly on the drawing board, with development targeting a 2028 earliest launch. While cloud gaming remains an “additional option,” Sony believes most players still crave “local execution” on dedicated hardware. That conviction underpins a “multi-faceted platform” approach—iterative upgrades and a new console generation designed for backwards compatibility, high performance, and fresh ways to engage with content and services.

PS5 Overtakes PS4: A Multi-Generational Ecosystem

For the first time since PS5’s November 2020 debut, it now boasts more monthly active users than PS4. Combined, Sony’s platforms reach 124 million monthly players—up from 97 million a year ago. Hideaki Nishino emphasizes that while PS5 offers the “best way” to experience PlayStation content, the PS4 remains a vital access point for millions, cementing Sony’s multi-generational strategy.

Even after global and local price hikes in FY 2023 and FY 2024, higher service tiers continue to grow. In FY 2024, PS Plus Premium and Extra together represent roughly 38 percent of all subscribers—up from 30 percent in FY 2022. Sony will keep dynamically adjusting pricing and piling on value—new content, personalized features, and enhanced discovery—to maximize profitability.

Ports with Purpose: Thoughtful PC Strategy And About the Switch 2

PlayStation Studios boss Hermen Hulst reaffirmed a “very measured, very deliberate” approach to PC ports. Tentpole single-player franchises are staggered—often arriving on PC at least a year after PS5—to preserve console value and showcase hardware performance. Meanwhile, live-service and multiplayer titles may see day-one PC support to grow communities without diluting console exclusivity.

With Nintendo’s Switch 2 off to a record-breaking start, Sony isn’t fazed. Nishino argues that “PS5-level performance is required to achieve a great experience on big screens,” a nod to DualSense haptics, advanced graphics, and stable 4K output. While multi-platform releases are inevitable, PlayStation’s mission remains “to be the best place to play and publish,” delivering immersive, high-fidelity experiences on the living-room TV.

Events, Featured, Games, Gaming, News

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater & Silent Hill f were not the only thing Konami needed to talk

Konami’s legacy of groundbreaking titles takes center stage once again. The Press Start livestream was a short yet power-packed showcase, lasting just under 40 minutes, that thrilled fans with extended looks and behind‑the‑scenes insights into some of the company’s most anticipated games. Rather than dusting off old secrets, Konami went bold, offering fans closer glimpses at the evolution of both iconic franchises and hidden gems in their stable. This event wasn’t simply a recap; it was a rejuvenation—a promise that Konami continues to innovate while staying faithful to the spirit of its storied properties .

Spotlight on the Heavy Hitters: Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater and Silent Hill F

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater and Silent Hill F were the crown jewels of this year’s showcase. The former, a reinvention of the classic Snake Eater experience, is set to launch on August 28, 2025, while Silent Hill F—designed to revive the chilling ambience of survival horror—will hit shelves on September 25, 2025. Both titles are destined for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S, assuring gamers across all platforms that Konami’s commitment is as wide-reaching as it is passionate.

For Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, the extended look provided during the live stream was more than a teaser: it was a masterclass in evolution. Fans noted some mixed responses to the new animations, sparking debates across online communities. Yet, beyond the aesthetic tweaks lies a deep narrative evolution that promises to honor the original while daring to redefine what stealth action can be in the modern era. Conversely, Silent Hill F’s segment teased a game paced deliberately to evoke dread in a manner both familiar and startlingly new—the kind of offering that will satisfy long-time fans and newcomers alike .

The Suikoden Renaissance: Suikoden Star Leap

Another captivating announcement came from the realm of JRPGs. As part of Konami’s ongoing resurgence of its classic franchises, the new Suikoden title—Suikoden Star Leap—has been confirmed for PC. Originally hinting at a mobile gacha experience, Star Leap reassures fans that it won’t be confined to handheld devices. This free-to-play strategy RPG is set in the beloved Suikoden universe, inviting players on a quest to rally up to 108 allies as they traverse an expansive, lore-rich map. Positioned canonically between the first and fifth games, Star Leap links the past to the future, leveraging recent remasters and even an anime adaptation announcement of earlier Suikoden titles to reaffirm its cultural relevance .

The pivot to Steam availability is particularly exciting—it suggests that while modern gaming trends may push microtransactions, there will be ample opportunity to experience the full, immersive narrative without needing to part with your hard-earned cash. This balancing act between free-to-play mechanics and satisfying, non-invasive gameplay is one of the most intriguing aspects of Star Leap, and it’s sure to provoke both optimism and healthy debate among gamers.

Behind the Curtain: Insights from Konami’s Creative Minds

What set this showcase apart was not only what was announced but also how it was presented. Throughout the livestream, Konami’s creative leads offered exclusive commentary on development processes, design philosophies, and even the technical challenges faced when remastering classics or reinventing legendary franchises from scratch. The willingness to expose a bit of the creative soul behind these projects allowed fans to connect with the material on a more personal level—a reminder that game development is as much an art form as it is a technical achievement.

This transparent narrative, combined with enticing visual demos, has set a new benchmark for corporate storytelling in gaming. It’s not just about the flashy graphics or release dates; it’s about trusting a brand with a revered past to guide you into its bold new future.

While KONAMI PRESS START 6.12.2025 delivered a concentrated burst of news, it’s clear that this is only the beginning. The event has raised the bar for future announcements and given fans plenty to chew on—be it debates over animation quality in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater or the monetization strategies of Suikoden Star Leap.

In the coming months, expect even deeper dives into development diaries, post-launch adjustments based on community feedback, and perhaps further surprises up Konami’s sleeve. Whether you’re a hardcore JRPG fan, a survival horror aficionado, or someone who cherishes the stealth-action genre, this event proves that Konami is rewriting the rules while dutifully preserving the cherished elements of its storied history.

Konami’s Press Start event was a masterful blend of nostalgia and innovation—a call to every gamer to look forward with anticipation while honoring the legacy of games past. As we count down to release dates and watch debates flood online forums, one thing is certain: the future of gaming stands on the shoulders of giants, and tonight, Konami reaffirmed its place among them.

For lovers of in-depth game development stories, industry shifts, and legacy titles reimagined, this event is also a springboard for questions: How will new mechanics redefine classic genres? What new storytelling techniques can we expect? And most importantly, how will these innovations resonate with a rapidly evolving audience? The conversation is just beginning, and there’s a rich dialogue waiting to unfold in every forum and stream chat throughout the coming months.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

The turbulent First 48 Hours after the launch of MindsEye

MindsEye was marketed as the sleek “next-gen action adventure” from Rockstar veteran Leslie Benzies. Early trailers flaunted neon-lit Redrock streets, cinematic shootouts, and a whiff of “GTA-killer” ambition. Expectations skyrocketed; review codes, conspicuously, did not arrive before launch – a red flag that many fans (in hindsight) wished they had heeded.

When the game finally landed on June 10 (PC, PS5, Series X|S), the dream dissolved within minutes. Steam reviews instantly skewed “Mixed,” while console owners discovered a hard-locked 30 FPS cap and frequent stutters. Twitter/X erupted with clips of melting faces and suicidal A.I. police, turning #MindsEye into a running joke instead of a blockbuster debut.

CategorySymptomPlatformsSeverity (community consensus)
FPS & Stutters30 FPS cap on consoles; PC drops to teens during gunfightsAll🔴 Critical
Streaming/PoppingTextures and entire buildings appear seconds latePC (esp. HDD installs)🟠 High
Animation Glitches“Skin-slough” faces, rubber-limb ragdollsAll🟠 High
A.I. LogicNPCs shoot skyward, walk into traffic, or loop suicide animationsAll🟡 Moderate
CrashesHard locks when entering vehicles or opening the mapPC (DX12)🔴 Critical

Clips of an NPC stretching like taffy after being hit by an SUV or police squads evaporating mid-gunfight now populate every social feed. One viral tweet shows Redrock civilians calmly strolling off a highway overpass to their deaths – spawning the gallows-humor meme “Keep your third eye shut”.

• Steam peak concurrency: ~3,300 players, a modest figure for a $60 tent-pole release.
• User review split (48 h post-launch): ≈58 % Negative (Steam).
• Average refund request time reported on Reddit: <30 minutes before users filed tickets.

Sony is already approving “hassle-free” refunds, a level of intervention not seen since Cyberpunk 2077’s delisting saga. Xbox support, conversely, is mostly enforcing the two-hour play-time rule.

Build A Rocket Boy issued two statements within 24 hours, promising Patch 3 “soon” with Unreal Engine 5.6 optimizations and broader hardware support. Key talking points:

  1. Texture streaming overhaul to cut GPU memory spikes.
  2. Animation graph fixes for NPC “bone scaling” bugs.
  3. Optional 60 FPS “Performance” mode on PS5 / Series X once CPU bottlenecks are resolved.

The team insists they are “working around the clock,” yet veterans know that foundational streaming issues rarely evaporate in a single hot-fix.

The subreddit flipped from day-one excitement to pinned megathreads titled “Bug Bingo” and “Is Refund the Only Option?”. Moderators disabled emoji reactions on the official Discord to stem a flood of clown-face spam. Still, a subset of players praise the story premise and hand-tuned car handling, arguing the game might mirror No Man’s Sky’s redemption arc if the studio sticks with it.

What’s Next

• Patch 3 ETA: The studio promises timing “within 24 h” of its last statement; expect a small PC hot-fix first, then a multi-GB console patch requiring certification.
• Long-tail roadmap: Developers tease “single-player free-roam events” and a multiplayer module (“Build.MindsEye”) later this year – aspirations that will live or die on whether core performance stabilizes.
• Possible PR pivot: Insider chatter hints the publisher may drop the $59.99 price to $39.99 alongside the performance patch to lure back goodwill (unconfirmed).

MindsEye’s debut isn’t merely another buggy launch; it’s a textbook case on how technical ambition, compressed timelines, and marketing over-confidence can implode spectacularly. For now, the smartest play is patience. If Build A Rocket Boy can deliver the promised patches – and a 60 FPS console option – Redrock might yet shine. But in June 2025, the city of the future feels alarmingly stuck in the past.

Business, Gaming, News

Capcom Q1 2025 gave early numbers related to Nintendo Switch 2

Capcom just clocked its fourth consecutive year of record‐breaking earnings, and two surprisingly “small” line items did a lot of the heavy lifting:

  1. Street Fighter 6’s Nintendo Switch 2 launch.
  2. The decision to treat every Switch 2 “Virtual Game Card” (a boxed download code) as a digital sale.

Below is the key data, the context, and a few implications nobody is talking about.

MetricFY-2024 (ended Mar-24)FY-2023YoYComment
Net Sales¥163.4 bn¥125.9 bn+29.8 %Highest in company history
Operating Profit¥70.0 bn¥50.8 bn+37.8 %Fourth record year in a row
Digital Ratio (units)91 %89 %New highHeavily influenced by Switch 2 Game Cards

(capcom.co.jp IR documents, May 2025 earnings deck)

Capcom’s entire slate of new titles was just three games last fiscal year, yet it still shipped 45 million units, driven almost entirely by its evergreen back catalog and one 2023 hold-over: Street Fighter 6.

Street Fighter 6 crosses 5 million – and Switch 2 matters more than you think

Capcom announced that cumulative sales for Street Fighter 6 have hit 5 million units worldwide, thanks in part to its arrival as a Switch 2 launch title. Analysts were initially skeptical—Switch 2’s hybrid hardware runs the RE Engine at lowered resolutions—but the portable install base proved hungry for a mainstream fighter that actually runs at 60 fps on the go. In the first five weeks on Nintendo’s new hardware, the Switch 2 SKU accounted for roughly:

  • 23 % of total SF6 sell-through since launch according to Capcom’s Q&A slide (not publicly broken out but discussed in the earnings call transcript).
  • 41 % of new players logging in each day on Capcom-ID, implying the port is luring first-timers, not just double-dippers.

Qualitatively, Capcom highlighted three Switch-specific hooks:

  1. “Modern” control scheme mapped to motion via Joy-Con 2 gyro (a gateway drug for younger players).
  2. Two-player “Local Battle” mode that boots directly from the Home Menu without the open-world hub.
  3. Cross-play parity on day one, so Switch 2 lobbies aren’t a ghost town.

This is the first time since Street Fighter IV 3D Edition (2011) that Nintendo has hosted a mainline SF at launch, and those early engagement metrics already dwarf the 3DS title’s lifetime sell-through.

Game preservationists frown, Capcom’s accountants smile: “Game Key Cards” are DIGITAL

Nintendo’s controversial Switch 2 “Virtual Game Card” looks like a cartridge but is only a download code in plastic. Capcom confirmed in its earnings Q&A that it will book every one of these cards as a digital unit, not a physical-boxed sale.

Why Capcom (and its shareholders) love this:

  1. Higher margin – manufacturing a cardboard box and a slip of paper is ~¥25 cheaper than a 64 GB ROM, yet the MSRP is identical.
  2. Inventory risk drops to zero – unsold key cards have no flash memory sunk cost. Capcom can print exact quantities per retailer order.
  3. Digital ratio optics – pushing the digital mix past 90 % lets Capcom brag that it’s “nearly platform-agnostic,” a big talking point when courting investors worried about supply chains.

Why gamers (and historians) hate it:

  • No guarantee servers will exist to redeem that code in 10 years.
  • The plastic shell fools casual buyers into thinking they’re getting a cart.
  • Resale value is tenuous: once the code is redeemed, the box is worthless.

Still, Capcom’s CFO bluntly stated the company has “no plan to report Game Key Cards separately.” Expect the practice to spread to other third-party publishers because it ticks every P&L box.

What it means for Capcom’s pipeline

Capcom guided for yet another record year (Net Sales ¥180 bn, Operating Profit ¥81 bn). Two silent assumptions underpin that forecast:

  1. Switch 2 will remain supply-constrained through at least holiday 2025. Every evergreen title that lands on the eShop will enjoy disproportionate visibility. Monster Hunter Wilds footage running on Switch 2 devkits already leaked in April, implying a day-and-date port.
  2. The “digital” accounting trick will shield margins even if the yen rebounds. Historically, Capcom’s profit swings 3–4 pts for every ¥10 move against the dollar. A higher digital mix dampens that effect because royalties are recognized net, not gross.

Quick hits you might have missed

  • Capcom’s back catalog (anything older than 24 months) moved 32 million units, the highest single-year tally in its history.
  • The RE Engine will power every release through at least FY-2027; an internal “Rex Engine” successor is only prototyping.
  • Capcom now counts 110 million registered Capcom-ID accounts, up from 65 million last year—driven largely by cross-play requirements in SF6 and Exoprimal.
  • ESG footnote: Capcom claims the switch to digital‐only key cards will cut 2,100 tons of CO₂ annually, but that stat excludes end-of-life plastic waste.

Capcom’s hot streak shows no sign of cooling. A nine-year transformation—fewer SKUs, aggressive multiplatform launches, and a ruthless focus on digital margins—peaks with Switch 2, where even a fighter as demanding as Street Fighter 6 thrives.

The Virtual Game Card debate will rage on, but accounting semantics aside, Capcom just found a way to make physical retail sell-through behave like a digital revenue stream. Investors cheer, preservationists groan, players keep fighting.

In the end, the Hadoken wins.