Category Archives: Breaking

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, PC

GeForce NOW Native App Arrives on Steam Deck

The Steam Deck has revolutionized handheld gaming, offering PC-level performance in a portable form factor. Now, with the arrival of NVIDIA’s native GeForce NOW app, the device is unlocking even greater potential. This new integration allows Steam Deck users to stream over 2,200 games at up to 4K resolution and 60FPS, bringing high-end gaming experiences to a device that was previously limited by hardware constraints.

What Does the GeForce NOW App Bring to Steam Deck?

Previously, Steam Deck users could access GeForce NOW through a browser, but the experience was far from seamless. The new native app eliminates the need for workarounds, offering direct access to cloud gaming from SteamOS. Here’s what makes this integration exciting:

  • Expanded Game Library – Users can stream titles from Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass for PC, Ubisoft, Battle.net, and more.
  • Enhanced Graphics – The app supports HDR, DLSS 4, and NVIDIA Reflex, ensuring smoother gameplay and improved visuals.
  • Battery Life Boost – Since games are streamed rather than run locally, Steam Deck users can expect up to 50% longer battery life compared to native gaming.
  • Big-Screen Gaming – The Steam Deck can be docked to a TV, allowing users to play high-end titles on a larger display.

The Steam Deck is a powerful handheld, but it has limitations when running graphically demanding games. With GeForce NOW, users can play AAA titles like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, Monster Hunter Wilds, and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 at max settings without worrying about hardware limitations.

Additionally, the GeForce NOW Ultimate membership provides performance equivalent to an RTX 4080 GPU, meaning Steam Deck users can experience cutting-edge gaming without upgrading their hardware.

How to Get Started

Installing the GeForce NOW app on Steam Deck is straightforward:

  1. Switch to Desktop Mode – Open SteamOS and enter desktop mode.
  2. Download the App – Visit NVIDIA’s official site and download the Steam Deck version of GeForce NOW.
  3. Install & Launch – Follow the installation steps, then access the app from SteamOS.

For those unsure about committing to a paid plan, GeForce NOW offers a free tier, though it comes with limitations such as longer queue times and one-hour session limits.

The arrival of GeForce NOW’s native app on Steam Deck is a game-changer. It transforms the handheld into a cloud gaming powerhouse, allowing users to play high-end titles without worrying about performance bottlenecks. Whether you’re looking to extend battery life, access a broader game library, or experience RTX-powered gaming, this integration is a massive win for Steam Deck owners.

RTX on Deck: The GeForce NOW Native App for Steam Deck Is Here
The first GeForce NOW native app for Steam Deck is here. Stream it with the 6 new games available this week.
Source/Via
Breaking, Business, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Now the ‘Game Over’ is official for the FTC about the Activision Blizzard King acquisition injunction

After almost 3 years and a half of legal battles, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has officially dropped its case against Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, marking the end of one of the most significant regulatory challenges in gaming history.

The deal, valued at $69 billion, was finalized in October 2023, but the FTC continued to push back, arguing that Microsoft’s control over Activision Blizzard could harm competition in the gaming industry.

A Long Legal Battle Comes to an End

The FTC initially sought to block the acquisition, fearing that Microsoft would use its ownership of Activision Blizzard to limit access to major franchises like Call of Duty for rival platforms. However, courts repeatedly ruled against the FTC, with the latest appeal being rejected earlier this month. With no legal avenues left, the FTC officially dismissed its complaint, stating that continuing the fight was not in the public interest.

Microsoft President Brad Smith welcomed the decision, calling it a victory for players and common sense in Washington, D.C.. Since acquiring Activision Blizzard, Microsoft has continued to release Call of Duty titles on PlayStation and has even expanded its portfolio by bringing former Xbox exclusives to Sony’s platform. This move suggests that Microsoft is prioritizing accessibility and revenue over exclusivity.

Despite the acquisition boosting Microsoft’s earnings, it has also led to significant layoffs within Activision Blizzard, raising concerns about corporate restructuring and job security in the gaming industry. Additionally, Microsoft has made changes to its Game Pass subscription service, including price increases, which some critics argue could be a consequence of the massive acquisition.

What’s Next for Microsoft and Activision Blizzard?

With the FTC officially stepping aside, Microsoft can now fully integrate Activision Blizzard into its gaming ecosystem. This could mean:

  • More Activision Blizzard titles appearing on Xbox Game Pass.
  • Potential new exclusive content for Xbox and PC.
  • Further expansion into cloud gaming, leveraging Activision Blizzard’s franchises.

While the regulatory battle is over, the gaming industry will be watching closely to see how Microsoft handles its newfound power. Will it continue to support multi-platform releases, or will it eventually shift towards exclusivity? Only time will tell.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

Playstation Stars will fade away at the galaxy (shutdown)

Sony Confirms the Shutdown of PlayStation Stars Loyalty Program

Sony has officially announced the discontinuation of its PlayStation Stars loyalty program, marking the end of an initiative that rewarded players with digital collectibles and redeemable points for engaging with PlayStation games and activities. The program, which launched in 2022, will fully shut down on November 2, 2026, but existing members will still be able to earn rewards until July 23, 2025.

In a statement released on the PlayStation Blog, Sony explained that the decision to wind down PlayStation Stars was based on an evaluation of player engagement and industry trends. The company emphasized that it had learned valuable insights from the program and would use these findings to explore new ways to enhance its loyalty initiatives.

Since launching the program, we’ve learned a lot from evaluating the types of activities our players respond best to, and as a company, we are always evolving with player and industry trends. Through this evaluation, we have decided to refocus our efforts and will be winding down the current version of PlayStation Stars.

What Happens Next for PlayStation Stars Members?

Sony has outlined a gradual shutdown process for PlayStation Stars:

  • No new members will be accepted into the program starting immediately.
  • Existing members can continue earning digital collectibles, points, and level up their status until July 23, 2025.
  • After July 23, 2025, no new campaigns, rewards, or benefits will be available.
  • Members can redeem their points until November 2, 2026, after which the program will be completely discontinued.
  • Digital collectibles earned through the program will remain accessible even after the shutdown.

The Legacy of PlayStation Stars

PlayStation Stars was introduced as a way to reward player engagement through a variety of challenges, including earning trophies and purchasing digital games. While the program had its dedicated user base, it never fully integrated into the PlayStation console experience, remaining primarily accessible through the PlayStation App on mobile devices.

Despite its discontinuation, Sony has hinted at future loyalty initiatives, suggesting that the company is exploring new ways to engage and reward players. Whether this means a revamped version of PlayStation Stars or an entirely new program remains to be seen.

The shutdown of PlayStation Stars marks the end of an era for PlayStation’s loyalty efforts, but it also opens the door for new and improved player engagement strategies. As Sony continues to evolve with industry trends, PlayStation fans can expect fresh opportunities to earn rewards and celebrate their gaming achievements in the future.

PlayStation Stars coming to a close as SIE evaluates new ways to evolve future Loyalty Program efforts
Qualifying Points redeemable until November 2026.
Source/Via
Breaking, Games, Gaming, Mobile, News, Xbox

Microsoft: “Is Apple’s fault we couldn’t release our Xbox Mobile Store”

Microsoft has formally accused Apple of obstructing the launch of its Xbox mobile web store, initially planned for July 2024. In a court filing on May 21, 2025, Microsoft stated that its efforts have been “stymied by Apple”. This legal battle is unfolding as part of Epic Games’ ongoing fight against Apple’s App Store policies, with Microsoft submitting an amicus brief to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in support of Epic.

The dispute highlights broader concerns about Apple’s control over mobile gaming and app distribution, echoing past struggles faced by cloud gaming services like Project xCloud and Google Stadia on iOS.

The Xbox Mobile Store Delay

Microsoft’s frustration stems from Apple’s restrictive App Store policies, particularly its anti-steering rules, which prevent developers from directing users to payment options outside Apple’s proprietary system. These rules have historically been a major point of contention, as they allow Apple to maintain its commission structure while limiting developers’ ability to offer alternative payment methods.

A pivotal moment in this legal battle came on April 30, 2025, when U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that Apple had violated a 2021 anti-steering injunction. The ruling explicitly forbids Apple from levying commissions on purchases made through external links from U.S. App Store apps and prevents restrictions on how developers communicate these alternatives. Microsoft argues that Apple’s continued enforcement of these policies has stifled innovation and prevented the company from launching its Xbox mobile store as planned.

Microsoft’s ambitions extend beyond just a web store. The company has long sought to enable Xbox app users on iOS to purchase and stream games directly within the app, an effort repeatedly blocked by Apple’s policies. Even after Microsoft enabled game purchases in its Xbox mobile app on iOS last month, it had to remove the remote play feature to comply with Apple’s App Store rules.

Project xCloud’s Struggles on iOS

Microsoft’s battle with Apple is not new. The company faced similar challenges when launching Project xCloud, its cloud gaming service, on iOS. Initially, Microsoft planned to bring xCloud to iPhones and iPads, allowing users to stream Xbox games directly from the cloud. However, Apple’s App Store policies severely limited the service’s functionality.

In February 2020, Microsoft launched a limited beta for Project xCloud on iOS through Apple’s TestFlight program. Unlike the Android version, which supported multiple games, the iOS beta was restricted to just one title—Halo: The Master Chief Collection. Apple’s policies prevented Microsoft from offering a broader selection of games, citing concerns over app review processes and content moderation. Ultimately, Microsoft was forced to abandon its plans for a full xCloud rollout on iOS, instead directing users to access the service via a web browser.

Stadia’s Similar Struggles

Back when it was on full throttle, Google’s Stadia cloud gaming service faced nearly identical obstacles on iOS. Stadia was designed to allow users to stream games directly from Google’s servers, bypassing the need for powerful local hardware. However, Apple’s App Store policies prevented Google from launching a dedicated Stadia app with full functionality.

Instead, Google had to rely on a web-based workaround, allowing users to access Stadia through Safari rather than a native app. This approach introduced technical limitations and a less seamless user experience compared to the Android version. Additionally, Stadia players on iOS encountered connectivity issues, particularly after upgrading to iOS 15.

Some users reported that Stadia would not function properly on mobile data, requiring adjustments to Safari’s experimental settings to restore functionality.

The Return of Fortnite and Its Impact

The recent return of Fortnite to the iOS App Store marks a significant shift in the ongoing battle between developers and Apple. After nearly five years of absence, Fortnite was reinstated following a court ruling on April 30, 2025, which found Apple had violated antitrust laws. The ruling forced Apple to allow developers to link to external payment systems, a major victory for Epic Games and other companies seeking greater flexibility in monetization.

Fortnite’s return could set a precedent for Microsoft’s Xbox mobile store ambitions. Epic Games has already begun promoting alternative payment methods within Fortnite, offering players incentives to purchase in-game currency through the Epic Games Store rather than Apple’s in-app system. If Microsoft follows a similar strategy, it could bypass Apple’s restrictions and finally launch its Xbox mobile store via a web-based platform.

Microsoft’s legal battle with Apple is part of a broader industry movement pushing for greater developer freedom on mobile platforms. The struggles faced by Project xCloud and Stadia on iOS illustrate the challenges of launching cloud gaming services under Apple’s restrictive policies. However, Fortnite’s return to iOS signals a potential shift in the power dynamics between Apple and developers.

If Microsoft succeeds in its legal challenge, it could pave the way for a more open mobile gaming ecosystem, allowing Xbox users to purchase and stream games without Apple’s intervention. The outcome of this case will not only shape the future of the Xbox mobile store but also influence how developers approach app distribution and monetization on iOS.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, Mobile, News

The return of Fortnite to your iPhone & iPad is official

After nearly five years of absence, Fortnite is finally making its way back to iOS. This marks a significant moment in the ongoing battle between Epic Games and Apple, a dispute that reshaped the conversation around app store policies, developer rights, and digital marketplaces. But what does this mean for gamers, and how will Fortnite’s return impact the mobile gaming landscape?

The Long Road Back: A Legal Battle for Control

Fortnite was removed from the Apple App Store in August 2020 after Epic Games introduced a direct payment system that bypassed Apple’s in-app purchase fees. This move led to a legal showdown, with Epic accusing Apple of monopolistic practices and Apple defending its ecosystem control. The battle raged on for years, with courts weighing in on whether Apple’s policies were fair or restrictive.

A recent U.S. court ruling found Apple in violation of a previous injunction, forcing the company to allow developers to direct users to alternative payment systems. This decision paved the way for Epic Games to resubmit Fortnite for App Store approval, signaling its imminent return that actually occurred.

Early this week, Epic Games via CEO Tim Sweeney revealed they asked the court to request Apple their rationale about withholding Fortnite approval despite an order that they should not continue with the behavior that started it all and that despite Apple was appealing the decision, Apple was denied to upheld the original order.

With the re-entry of Fortnite at the App Store, it seems that Apple is not too willingly to keep defying courts on their playing of interpretation of law and orders, at least for now.

How to Download Fortnite on iOS

Once Fortnite is officially back, players will have two primary ways to install the game:

  1. Via the App Store – Search for “Fortnite” and tap the “Get” button to begin downloading.
  2. Through the Epic Games Store – In regions where alternative app stores are allowed, players may be able to download Fortnite via Epic’s own platform.

Fortnite’s return to iOS is more than just a win for Epic Games—it’s a major shift in the mobile gaming industry. The ruling that forced Apple to allow external payment links could set a precedent for other developers seeking more control over their revenue streams. This could lead to greater competition, lower fees, and more choices for consumers.

Additionally, Fortnite’s comeback could revitalize mobile esports, bringing back competitive tournaments and events that were previously limited due to platform restrictions.

While iPhone users can celebrate Fortnite’s return, Mac gamers are still left in limbo. Apple terminated Epic’s ability to develop Fortnite for macOS in 2020, and the game has not received updates on the platform since. For now, Mac users will have to rely on cloud gaming services like GeForce NOW or Xbox Cloud Gaming to play Fortnite.

Fortnite’s return to iOS is a monumental moment for mobile gaming, signaling a shift in how digital marketplaces operate. Whether this leads to broader changes in app store policies remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Fortnite fans on iPhone are about to drop back into the battle royale once again.

Download QR-Code
‎Fortnite
Developer: Epic Games Inc.
Price: Free+
Breaking, Featured, Games, Gaming, News

Activision Confirms Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile Will Sunset

In a surprising move, Activision has announced that Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile will be removed from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store on May 18, 2025. This decision comes just over a year after the mobile version of the popular battle royale game was launched in March 2024.

Activision revealed that the game did not meet expectations with mobile-first players, despite its success on PC and console. While the company expressed pride in bringing Warzone to mobile, it acknowledged that the experience did not resonate as strongly with mobile gamers as anticipated.

What Happens Next?

Although new downloads will no longer be possible after May 18, players who already have the game installed will still be able to access servers and matchmaking for online play. However, social features are being retired, and purchases of Call of Duty Points or Black Cell have been disabled.

Activision has also confirmed that future Warzone content will not be available in Warzone Mobile, meaning players will not receive updates or new features. Additionally, refunds will not be offered for purchases made within the game.

While Warzone Mobile is winding down, Activision is encouraging players to transition to Call of Duty: Mobile, offering special incentives for Warzone Mobile players who try out the alternative title.

The company has hinted that its Warzone Mobile teams are moving forward on other projects, though no details have been shared yet.

The decision to sunset Warzone Mobile marks the end of an ambitious attempt to bring the Call of Duty: Warzone experience to mobile devices. While some players may be disappointed, Activision appears to be refocusing its efforts on other mobile gaming initiatives.

For those who still want to play, make sure to download the game before May 18—because after that, it will no longer be available.

Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile Service Changes
Important Information about Service Changes for Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile
Source/Via
Breaking, Business, Games, Gaming, News

The Fallout of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves—SNK CEO Steps Down

In a surprising turn of events, Kenji Matsubara, CEO of SNK Corporation, has stepped down from his leadership role, transitioning into an advisory position. This decision comes in the wake of the unexpectedly low performance of SNK’s latest release, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, a game that was meant to mark the triumphant return of the beloved fighting franchise after 26 years.

SNK went all-in on Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, pouring substantial resources into its marketing and advertising campaign. The game was heavily promoted across various platforms, including WWE events, YouTube, and other digital spaces. It even featured Cristiano Ronaldo as a playable fighter, alongside contributions from world-renowned DJs for its soundtrack.

Despite these efforts, the game failed to generate the expected sales and player engagement. On Steam, the game peaked at 4,592 concurrent players, a disappointing figure for a title meant to revive a legendary franchise. In Japan, it sold only 10,000 copies on PlayStation within its first two weeks, ranking 10th in sales charts behind older titles like Minecraft and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

SNK’s Official Statement

On May 12, 2025, SNK Corporation released a statement announcing Matsubara’s transition to an advisory role. The company praised his contributions, highlighting his efforts in expanding SNK’s development division and strengthening its sales and marketing functions. However, the timing of his departure has led many to speculate that the underwhelming performance of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves played a significant role in this decision.

While SNK has not publicly disclosed exact sales figures or revenue losses, industry analysts suggest that the game’s poor reception has had a negative financial impact on the company. The Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, which owns a major stake in SNK, had reportedly contributed heavily to the game’s development and marketing. The disappointing sales figures may have influenced the board’s decision to restructure leadership.

What’s Next for SNK?

With Matsubara stepping down, SNK’s Chairman of the Board will assume the role of interim CEO until a permanent replacement is appointed. The company remains committed to its strategic vision, but the failure of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves raises questions about SNK’s future direction in the fighting game industry.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Microsoft’s Xbox Price Hike: Market Pressures, Earnings, and Nintendo’s Influence

Microsoft has announced a significant price increase across its Xbox product line, affecting consoles, controllers, headsets, and even future first-party games. The decision, which takes effect immediately, comes amid rising development costs and shifting market conditions.

The price hikes impact various Xbox models and accessories, with some seeing increases of up to 27%. Here are some of the key adjustments:

  • Xbox Series S 512GB – $379.99 (was $299.99)
  • Xbox Series S 1TB – $429.99 (was $349.99)
  • Xbox Series X Digital – $549.99 (was $449.99)
  • Xbox Series X – $599.99 (was $499.99)
  • Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Special Edition $729.99 (was $599.99)
  • Xbox Wireless Controller (Core) – $64.99 (no increase)
  • Xbox Wireless Controller (Color) – $69.99 (no increase)
  • Xbox Wireless Controller – Special Edition – $79.99 (no increase)
  • Xbox Wireless Controller – Limited Edition – $89.99 (was $79.99)
  • Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Core) – $149.99 (was $139.99)
  • Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Full) – $199.99 (was $179.99)
  • Xbox Stereo Headset -$64.99 (no increase)
  • Xbox Wireless Headset – $119.99 (was $109.99)

Additionally, Microsoft confirmed that new first-party Xbox games will be priced at $79.99 starting this holiday season.

Microsoft’s latest earnings report highlighted strong performance in its gaming division, but also pointed to increasing costs in game development and hardware production. The company cited global economic pressures, including tariffs and supply chain disruptions, as key factors behind the price adjustments.

Despite these challenges, Microsoft remains committed to expanding its gaming ecosystem, emphasizing cloud gaming and cross-platform accessibility. The company’s statement reassured players that it is focused on delivering value while adapting to market realities.

Overall Financial Performance

  • Total Revenue: $64.7 billion (+15% YoY)
  • Operating Income: $27.9 billion (+15%)
  • Net Income: $22.0 billion (+10%)
  • Diluted Earnings Per Share (EPS): $2.95 (+10%)
  • Microsoft Cloud Revenue: $36.8 billion (+21%)

Gaming Revenue Breakdown

The Xbox sector experienced significant growth in Q4, powered by acquisitions and game content sales:

  • Total Gaming Revenue: $6.4 billion (+61% YoY)
  • Xbox Content & Services: $5.2 billion (+68%), primarily driven by Activision Blizzard revenue
  • Xbox Hardware Revenue: $1.2 billion (+42%), following price adjustments and strong console sales

Key Drivers Behind Gaming Growth

  1. Activision Blizzard Impact
    • Microsoft completed the acquisition of Activision Blizzard, leading to increased gaming revenue.
    • Titles like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III and Diablo IV contributed significantly to Xbox content sales.
  2. Game Pass Expansion
    • Subscribers exceeded 33 million, signaling continued engagement in Microsoft’s subscription model.
    • First-party titles gained momentum, with Starfield, Forza Motorsport, and Minecraft Legends driving engagement.
  3. Hardware Price Adjustments
    • The Xbox Series X/S saw sales growth despite the announced price increases.
    • Premium editions and bundles performed better than anticipated.

Microsoft’s revenue growth in gaming aligns with broader industry trends. While competing with Sony’s PlayStation and Nintendo’s Switch, Microsoft’s investment in cloud gaming, Game Pass, and major acquisitions has positioned Xbox favorably for future expansion.

Nintendo’s Indirect Role

Interestingly, Microsoft’s price hike follows a similar move by Nintendo, which recently raised the price of select games to $79.99. While Nintendo has not increased console prices, its decision to adjust accessory costs due to market conditions may have influenced Microsoft’s strategy.

Nintendo’s pricing shift set a precedent, signaling that higher game prices could become the industry standard. Microsoft’s move aligns with this trend, ensuring its pricing remains competitive while addressing rising production costs.

Microsoft’s decision to raise Xbox prices reflects broader industry trends and economic pressures. While the increases may frustrate some gamers, they underscore the evolving landscape of console gaming, where companies must balance affordability with sustainability.

With Nintendo’s pricing adjustments setting the stage, Microsoft’s move suggests that higher costs may become the norm across the gaming industry. Whether other companies follow suit remains to be seen, but for now, Xbox players will need to prepare for a more expensive gaming experience.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

Gearbox Software confirms early release date for Borderlands 4

Vault Hunters, rejoice! Gearbox has officially announced that Borderlands 4 will be arriving ahead of schedule, moving its release date up from September 23, 2025, to September 12, 2025. This unexpected but thrilling news was revealed by Gearbox’s Randy Pitchford, who shared that development is progressing even better than expected, allowing the team to launch the game earlier than planned.

Borderlands 4 launches on Sep. 12, 2025 💥 ► Wishlist Borderlands 4 Now: 2kgam.es/Borderlands4

— (@gearboxofficial.bsky.social) 2025-04-29T15:48:54.293Z

Why the Early Release?

According to Pitchford, everything is going “the best-case scenario”—the game is shaping up beautifully, the team is firing on all cylinders, and the excitement from fans has been overwhelming. The decision to move the release date forward was made after extensive playtesting and internal discussions, ensuring that Borderlands 4 is polished and ready to deliver the chaotic, loot-filled experience fans crave.

Borderlands 4 takes players to Kairos, a brand-new planet filled with untamed landscapes, dangerous factions, and, of course, mountains of loot. The game introduces a fresh cast of Vault Hunters, each with unique abilities and skill trees designed to shake up the franchise’s signature gameplay. While Gearbox has kept major plot details under wraps, teasers suggest that the story will delve deeper into the mysteries of the Borderlands universe, possibly tying into past events and characters.

Borderlands 4 is getting its own State of Play!Tune in for over 20 minutes of new weapons, abilities, missions, and more on April 30 at 2pm PT / 5pm ET / 11pm CEST. Full details: play.st/4iGJe4p

— PlayStation (@playstation.com) 2025-04-29T15:00:29.077Z

Upcoming Reveal Event

For those eager to see more, Sony is hosting a dedicated PlayStation State of Play event on April 30, 2025, featuring 20 minutes of exclusive gameplay footage. This showcase will provide a deeper look at the game’s mechanics, weapons, and world-building, giving fans a taste of the action-packed insanity that awaits.

Breaking, Featured, Games, Gaming, News, PC

Breath of Fire IV Joins the GOG Preservation Program

More than two decades after its original release, Breath of Fire IV has returned to PC as part of the GOG Preservation Program. This initiative, spearheaded by GOG, aims to restore and maintain classic games, ensuring they remain accessible to modern audiences without the constraints of DRM or outdated compatibility issues.

The Legacy of Breath of Fire IV

Originally launched in 2000 (and 2003 for Europe and Japan), Breath of Fire IV is a beloved JRPG from Capcom that continues the franchise’s tradition of turn-based combat, deep storytelling, and a rich fantasy world. The game follows Ryu, a mysterious warrior with the ability to transform into a dragon, and Princess Nina, who embarks on a quest to find her missing sister, Elena. Their journey takes them across two continents, embroiled in political intrigue and ancient conflicts.

Despite its cult status, the original PC port of Breath of Fire IV was notoriously flawed, suffering from low-resolution graphics and compatibility issues. However, thanks to GOG’s restoration efforts, the game has been modernized with bug fixes, improved rendering options, restored environmental sounds, and full controller support. While some players note that upscaling still requires tweaking, the new version is widely regarded as the best way to experience the game on PC today.

The GOG Preservation Program: Keeping Classics Alive

The GOG Preservation Program is dedicated to reviving classic games, ensuring they remain playable on modern systems while maintaining their original charm. Unlike other digital platforms, GOG prioritizes DRM-free gaming, meaning players can own and play their games without restrictions.

Breath of Fire IV was selected for preservation after more than 23,000 votes from fans on the GOG Dreamlist, a community-driven initiative where players nominate titles they want to see restored. This underscores the game’s enduring popularity and the demand for classic JRPGs in today’s gaming landscape.

For fans of retro gaming, the inclusion of Breath of Fire IV in the GOG Preservation Program is a significant milestone. It not only revives a beloved classic but also highlights the importance of preserving gaming history. With modern gaming often dominated by live-service models and digital-only releases, initiatives like GOG’s ensure that older titles remain accessible for future generations.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, this is the perfect opportunity to experience one of Capcom’s most cherished RPGs in its best possible form. You can find Breath of Fire IV on GOG and immerse yourself in its epic tale of dragons, war, and destiny.

Download QR-Code
Breath of Fire IV
Developer: Unknown
Price: 9.99