Category Archives: Breaking

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Nintendo Switch Online will delist a game for the 1st time

Nintendo has announced that it will be removing a retro game from its Switch Online service for the first time. The game in question is Super Soccer, which will be delisted from the service on March 28, 2025. This marks the first time a game has been removed from the Switch Online retro library, raising concerns about the permanence of the service’s classic games catalog.

The removal of Super Soccer from the Switch Online service has sparked discussions among gamers about the future of the service and the potential for other games to be removed in the future.

Some players have expressed concerns about the possibility of losing access to their favorite retro games, while others have called for the return of the Virtual Console service, which allowed players to purchase and download individual games.

The decision to remove Super Soccer from the Switch Online service is believed to be due to licensing issues. The game was originally developed by Human Entertainment and published by Nintendo, and it is possible that the licensing agreement for the game has expired.

Nintendo has not provided any further details about the removal of Super Soccer or whether other games will be removed from the service in the future.

However, the company has assured players that it will continue to add new games to the Switch Online service, and that it remains committed to providing a diverse and extensive library of classic games.

The move was given the proper attention and one of the immediate reaction came from Hideki Kamiya and this is what PlatinumGames co-founder said:

Hey hey hey, I guess subscriptions are no good after all.

Seriously, bring back the Virtual Console… don’t be so mean.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

Surprising Command & Conquer move by Electronic Arts

In a groundbreaking move that has thrilled gamers and developers alike, Electronic Arts has released the source code for several classic titles in the Command & Conquer series. This decision marks a significant milestone in the history of gaming, as it not only preserves the legacy of these iconic real-time strategy (RTS) games but also empowers the community to breathe new life into them.

The Command & Conquer series, often abbreviated as C&C, debuted in 1995 with Command & Conquer: Tiberian Dawn. Developed by Westwood Studios, the game was a pioneer in the RTS genre, introducing players to a world of strategic warfare, resource management, and gripping narratives. The series quickly gained a cult following, with subsequent titles like Red Alert, Renegade, and Generals cementing its place in gaming history.

Over the years, the franchise faced challenges, including the closure of Westwood Studios in 2003 and mixed reception to later entries. Despite these hurdles, the C&C community remained passionate, keeping the spirit of the games alive through mods, fan projects, and online forums.

The Road to Open Source

EA’s decision to release the source code for Tiberian Dawn, Red Alert, Renegade, and Generals under the GNU General Public License (GPL) is a testament to the enduring legacy of the series. This initiative builds on the success of the Command & Conquer Remastered Collection, released in 2020, which included remastered versions of Tiberian Dawn and Red Alert. The remastered collection was praised for its faithful recreation of the originals and its inclusion of modding tools.

The journey to open source was spearheaded by Luke “CCHyper” Feenan, a veteran of the C&C community and a key figure in the development of the remastered collection. Over the past year, Feenan worked closely with EA to restore the original source code archives to a buildable state. This meticulous process involved recovering and organizing decades-old files, ensuring that the code could be used effectively by the community.

What This Means for the Community

The release of the source code is a game-changer for the C&C community. Modders and developers now have unprecedented access to the inner workings of these classic games, enabling them to create new content, fix bugs, and even develop entirely new experiences. EA has also introduced Steam Workshop support for several titles, making it easier than ever for players to share and discover mods.

This move is not just about preserving the past; it’s about inspiring the future. By opening up the source code, EA has given the community the tools to innovate and expand upon the foundations laid by Westwood Studios. Whether it’s creating new campaigns, enhancing graphics, or experimenting with gameplay mechanics, the possibilities are endless.

The release of the source code is a bold step that underscores EA’s commitment to the C&C franchise and its fans. It acknowledges the importance of community-driven creativity and the role it plays in keeping classic games relevant in an ever-evolving industry.

As we look to the future, one thing is clear: the Command & Conquer series is far from over. With the passion and ingenuity of its community, these games will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

Terminator 2D: NO FATE: A Retro Revival

The Terminator franchise has always been synonymous with thrilling action and iconic characters. Now, fans of the series have something new to look forward to: Terminator 2D: NO FATE. This officially licensed 2D action side-scroller is set to launch on September 5, 2025, and promises to deliver a nostalgic yet fresh gaming experience.

A Love Letter to the ’80s and ’90s Arcade Games

Developed by Bitmap Bureau and published by Reef Entertainment, Terminator 2D: NO FATE is a heartfelt homage to the arcade games of the ’80s and ’90s. The game features stunning pixel art and adrenaline-fueled gameplay that captures the essence of classic arcade action. Players will control Sarah Connor, John Connor, and the T-800 in missions that retell the story of Terminator 2: Judgment Day while expanding its narrative.

The initial characters that are officially at the game includes:

  • Sarah Connor: Agile and reactive, Sarah excels in melee combat. Her playstyle reflects her intense training and paranoia, making her a formidable character in close-quarters combat. She also wields a laser sight inspired by the iconic Miles Dyson scene, which significantly boosts damage.
  • John Connor: As the leader of the Resistance in the Future War missions, John Connor’s gameplay emphasizes strategic mid-to-long-range combat. He uses a plasma rifle, pipe bombs, and three types of ammo. While less agile than Sarah, he can execute a tactical roll to evade attacks.
  • T-800: The T-800 moves deliberately, emphasizing his weight and power. He compensates for his slower speed with high durability, capable of taking significant damage before going down. Iconic moments like the Corral bar brawl and the motorcycle escape from the T-1000 are recreated in a 2D arcade style.
  • T-1000: One of the most legendary villains of all time, the T-1000’s liquid metal abilities are brought to life in pixel art. Players will feel the menace of Robert Patrick’s unforgettable performance as they face him in-game.

Terminator 2D: NO FATE offers multiple game modes, including Story, Arcade, Infinite, Boss Rush, Mother of the Future, and Level Training. Each mode provides a unique challenge and adds to the replayability of the game.

Preorder Details

Terminator 2D: NO FATE will be available on PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. Digital preorders will be available at a later date, so keep an eye out for announcements from Bitmap Bureau and Reef Entertainment4.

In conclusion, Terminator 2D: NO FATE is shaping up to be a must-play for fans of the franchise and retro gaming enthusiasts alike. With its faithful recreation of iconic characters and moments, combined with thrilling arcade gameplay, this game is set to be a standout release in 2025.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

NetEase’s Shocking Layoffs: The Marvel Rivals US Development Team

In a surprising turn of events, NetEase Games has recently laid off the entire US-based development team behind the successful hero shooter, Marvel Rivals. This decision has sent shockwaves through the gaming community, especially given the game’s massive success since its launch in December 2024.

The news broke on February 18, 2025, when Marvel Rivals game director Thaddeus Sasser took to LinkedIn to announce that his entire team had been let go. Sasser, a veteran in the gaming industry, expressed his disbelief and frustration over the sudden layoffs, highlighting the team’s significant contributions to the game’s success.

Despite the layoffs, Marvel Rivals has been a runaway success. The game has garnered over 20 million downloads and consistently attracts hundreds of thousands of concurrent players on platforms like Steam. Its popularity has made it one of the most talked-about games in the competitive live service space.

Reasons Behind the Layoffs

NetEase cited “organizational reasons” and the need to “optimize development efficiency” as the primary reasons for the layoffs. The company emphasized that the core development team based in China remains committed to the game’s ongoing support and future updates.

The layoffs have had a significant impact on the affected employees, many of whom have been with NetEase since the game’s inception in January 2023. Sasser and his team specialized in game and level design, contributing to the innovative mechanics and engaging gameplay that have defined Marvel Rivals.

Community Reaction

The gaming community has reacted with a mix of shock and anger to the layoffs. Many fans and industry professionals have expressed their support for the affected employees and criticized NetEase for cutting a team that played a crucial role in the game’s success.

Despite the layoffs, NetEase has assured fans that Marvel Rivals will continue to receive updates and new content. The company is investing more resources into the game’s evolution and growth, aiming to deliver an exceptional experience for its global player base.

The layoffs at NetEase Games serve as a stark reminder of the volatile nature of the gaming industry. While Marvel Rivals continues to thrive, the affected employees now face the challenge of finding new opportunities in a competitive job market. As the gaming community rallies around them, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the future of Marvel Rivals and the broader industry.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

Recap of PlayStation State of Play: February 12, 2025

February 12, 2025, was a day filled with excitement for PlayStation fans as Sony hosted its first State of Play presentation of the year. The livestream, which ran for over 40 minutes, showcased a variety of upcoming games and updates for the PlayStation 5.

This article focus on brand-new games, no remaster/remakes (full event at the end of the article).

The event kicked off with a teaser for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, directed by Hideo Kojima. The trailer hinted at a more immersive experience, with stunning visuals and a gripping storyline.

Next up was Ghost of Yotei by Sucker Punch Productions. The game, set in a snowy, mystical world, promises to be an action-packed adventure with breathtaking graphics and a captivating narrative.

Another highly anticipated game was Marathon, a revival of the classic Bungie shooter. The new version promises to bring back the fast-paced, intense gameplay that fans loved, with updated graphics and new features1.

The presentation also included a surprise announcement for Grand Theft Auto 6, which is set to release in fall 2025. The trailer showcased the open-world gameplay and the vast, detailed environment that Rockstar Games is known for.

Other notable games featured in the State of Play included:

  • Civ 7: The latest installment in the popular Civilization series, promising new features and improvements.
  • Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2: A sequel to the critically acclaimed medieval RPG.
  • Sniper Elite: Resistance: A new entry in the stealth-action series, set in an alternate history World War II.
  • Path of Exile 2: The highly anticipated sequel to the beloved action RPG.
  • Black Ops 6: The latest installment in the Call of Duty franchise, featuring new gameplay mechanics and a gripping storyline.
  • Lost Soul Aside: An indie game with a unique art style and engaging gameplay.
  • Monster Hunter Wilds: A new entry in the Monster Hunter series, set in an expansive open world.
  • Hell is Us: A dark, atmospheric game with a gripping storyline.
  • Judas: A new game from a renowned developer, promising innovative gameplay and a compelling story.

My notable mentions:

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance

Sega has announced a new Shinobi game titled Shinobi: Art of Vengeance. This game is set to be released on August 29, 2025, for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. It’s the first new entry in the series in nearly 15 years. The game will feature the classic protagonist Joe Musashi, who returns to find his village in ruins and his clan turned to stone. Players can expect challenging platforming puzzles and intense combat with a variety of weapons and Ninjutsu skills.

Warriors Abyss

Omega Force is taking the Dynasty Warriors series into roguelike territory with Warriors Abyss. This new game will feature frenzied action and a roguelite spin-off style, allowing players to take command of historic warriors and challenge countless swarms of enemies. The game will be released digitally, though no specific release date has been announced yet

The State of Play event was a major success, with fans eagerly anticipating the release of these exciting games. Sony’s commitment to delivering high-quality content for the PlayStation 5 was evident throughout the presentation, and fans can look forward to more exciting announcements in the future.

Breaking, Business, Games, Gaming, News

Hi-Rez Studios and SMITE: Navigating Through Layoffs and Uncertainty

Hi-Rez Studios, known for creating engaging multiplayer games like SMITE, Paladins, and Rogue Company, has recently faced significant challenges that have led to a series of layoffs. These layoffs have not only affected the development teams but also raised concerns about the future of their games.

Founded in 2005 by twins Todd and Erez Reznik, Hi-Rez Studios has built a reputation for nurturing long-lasting and inclusive gaming communities. Over the years, the studio has expanded its portfolio with titles like SMITE, Paladins, and Rogue Company, each contributing to its growth and success.

The Layoffs and Their Impact

In early February 2025, Hi-Rez Studios announced a new wave of layoffs that impacted developers across SMITE’s design, production, and esports teams. According to reports, around 50-60 developers were affected, with the studio ending development on SMITE 1, Paladins, and Rogue Company to prioritize the development of SMITE 2. This decision has left many fans and employees concerned about the future of these beloved games.

The layoffs at Hi-Rez Studios are part of a broader trend in the gaming industry, where studios are facing financial pressures and the need to streamline operations. Hi-Rez’s CEO, Stewart Chisam, previously explained that the layoffs were necessary to ensure the long-term success of SMITE 2. However, the decision to cut staff has been met with mixed reactions from the gaming community.

The Future of SMITE

Despite the layoffs, SMITE 2 remains the primary focus of Hi-Rez Studios. The new game, built on Unreal Engine 5, offers significant improvements in graphics and gameplay, promising a more immersive experience for players1. However, the development of SMITE 2 has not been without its difficulties, and the recent layoffs have added to the uncertainty surrounding the game’s future.

Hi-Rez Studios and SMITE have come a long way since their inception, but the recent layoffs have highlighted the challenges faced by the studio. While the future remains uncertain, Hi-Rez’s commitment to its games and communities gives hope for a brighter future. As SMITE continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see what new adventures and improvements Hi-Rez has in store for its dedicated community.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

Football Manager 25 cancellation announced

In a surprising announcement, Sega and Sports Interactive have decided to cancel the highly anticipated Football Manager 25 (FM25). This marks the first time the long-running sports simulation series has skipped a year since its inception in 2004.

The decision comes after repeated delays and challenges faced during the development process. Initially billed as the biggest technical and visual advancement for the series in a generation, FM25 was set to bring significant improvements to the player experience and interface.

However, moving to the Unity game engine proved to be more challenging than anticipated, leading to multiple setbacks.

Sports Interactive had previously delayed the release of FM25 twice, with the latest postponement pushing the release date to March 2025. This delay would have meant releasing two entries in the series within the same calendar year, which was deemed unfeasible1. As a result, the decision was made to cancel FM25 and refocus efforts on the upcoming Football Manager 26 (FM26).

In a heartfelt statement, Sports Interactive apologized to fans for the disappointment and assured that anyone who had pre-ordered FM25 would receive automatic refunds. The developer emphasized that the cancellation was necessary to ensure that the next release meets the high standards expected by the community.

We know this will come as a huge disappointment, especially given that the release date has already moved twice, and you have been eagerly anticipating the first gameplay reveal. We can only apologise for the time it has taken to communicate this decision. Due to stakeholder compliance, including legal and financial regulations, today was the earliest date that we could issue this statement. 

We have always prided ourselves on delivering the best value for money games that bring you countless hours of enjoyment, that feel worth every moment and every penny you spend. With the launch of FM25 we set out to create the biggest technical and visual advancement in the series for a generation, laying the building blocks for a new era. 

Due to a variety of challenges that we’ve been open about to date, and many more unforeseen, we currently haven’t achieved what we set out to do in enough areas of the game, despite the phenomenal efforts of our team. Each decision to delay the release was made with the aim of getting the game closer to the desired level but, as we approached critical milestones at the turn of the year, it became unmistakably clear that we would not achieve the standard required, even with the adjusted timeline. 

Whilst many areas of the game have hit our targets, the overarching player experience and interface is not where we need it to be. As extensive evaluation has demonstrated, including consumer playtesting, we have clear validation for the new direction of the game and are getting close – however, we’re too far away from the standards you deserve. 

We could have pressed on, released FM25 in its current state, and fixed things down the line – but that’s not the right thing to do. We were also unwilling to go beyond a March release as it would be too late in the football season to expect players to then buy another game later in the year.

Through the cancellation, every effort is now focused on ensuring that our next release achieves our goal and hits the quality level we all expect. We will update you on how we are progressing with that as soon as we are able to do so.  

Thank you for reading, your patience and your continued support. Our full focus now returns to creating a new era for Football Manager.

Sports Interactive

Despite the setback, Sports Interactive remains committed to delivering a quality product with FM26, which is expected to release in the usual November slot. The developer is currently in discussions with platform holders and licensors to extend FM24 agreements on subscription services such as Game Pass.

While the cancellation of FM25 is undoubtedly a disappointment for fans eagerly awaiting the game, it highlights the dedication of Sports Interactive to maintaining the quality and integrity of the Football Manager series. The focus now shifts to creating a new era for the beloved franchise, with FM26 promising to be a significant leap forward.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

Battlefield Labs will help EA shape the next Battlefield main game

The Battlefield franchise has long been synonymous with large-scale, intense warfare and groundbreaking multiplayer experiences. With the announcement of Battlefield Labs, Electronic Arts (EA) is taking a bold step towards ensuring that the next entry in the series, tentatively titled Battlefield 6, will be the best yet.

Battlefield Labs is a new community testing program designed to involve fans in the development process of the upcoming Battlefield game. This initiative allows players to test various aspects of the game, including combat mechanics, modes, maps, and more.

By gathering feedback from the community, EA aims to catch any major issues early on and refine the game to meet player expectations.

Why is Battlefield Labs Important?

The last few Battlefield games, particularly Battlefield 2042, faced significant criticism due to technical issues and gameplay problems. Battlefield Labs is EA’s response to these challenges, providing a platform for extensive playtesting and community engagement. This approach is expected to help the developers avoid the pitfalls of previous installments and deliver a polished, well-received game.

Signing up for Battlefield Labs is straightforward. Players need to visit the Battlefield Labs website, log in with their EA account, and click on the “Sign Up Now” button. However, spots are limited, and the initial testing phase is restricted to players in Europe and North America. Participants will need to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) before gaining access to the pre-alpha build of the game.

The testing will begin with core gameplay mechanics such as combat and destruction. This will be followed by testing weapon, vehicle, and gadget balancing, as well as specific maps and gameplay modes. The goal is to test almost everything, although not all features will be complete at this stage. The feedback from these tests will be invaluable in shaping the final product.

The Future of Battlefield

Battlefield Labs is part of a broader strategy by EA to revitalize the franchise. The newly formed Battlefield Studios brings together developers from DICE, Criterion, Motive, and Ripple Effect to create a truly ambitious game. The return of the single-player campaign, a departure from the multiplayer-only approach of Battlefield 2042, is one of the most exciting aspects of the upcoming game.

Battlefield Labs represents a significant shift in how EA is developing the Battlefield series. By involving the community in the testing process, EA hopes to create a game that not only meets but exceeds player expectations. With the collective expertise of Battlefield Studios and the valuable feedback from Battlefield Labs, the next entry in the series has the potential to be a groundbreaking success.

Breaking, Featured, Games, Gaming, News

Season 5 will be the “good-bye” from MultiVersus

Depending on how you see it, this will come either a surprise or something to be on the expectations and is that WB Games confirmed that MultiVersus servers will be shutdown on May 30, 2025, officializing Season 5 as the final public season.

This decision marks the end of an era for a game that brought together beloved characters from various Warner Bros. franchises in an exciting crossover brawler, at least in online mode that is.

Honestly, MultiVersus started with a lot of promise. Its open beta period saw a surge in popularity, with fans eagerly anticipating its official launch4. However, despite the initial excitement, the game struggled to maintain its player base. The official launch in May 2024 was met with mixed reviews, and the game’s performance fell short of expectations.

Warner Bros. Discovery reported significant financial losses due to underperforming releases, including MultiVersus. The game’s disappointing performance led to a $100 million writedown, contributing to a total of $300 million in losses for the company’s games sector.

This financial strain played a major role in the decision to discontinue support for MultiVersus.

Season 5, which begins on February 4, 2025, will be the game’s last content update. The season will introduce two new playable characters, Aquaman and Lola Bunny, adding a final burst of excitement for fans. Players will have the opportunity to unlock these characters through gameplay, with Aquaman available via the battle pass and Lola Bunny as a daily login reward.

After May 30, 2025, MultiVersus will no longer be playable online. However, players will still be able to enjoy the game offline via local gameplay mode, either solo against AI opponents or with up to three friends1. To access this mode, players must log in during Season 5 to create a local save file.

Additionally, the game will be delisted from digital storefronts such as the PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, Steam, and Epic Games Store.

We have an important update to share regarding MultiVersus. After careful consideration, our next Season will serve as the final seasonal content update for the game. MultiVersus Season 5 will begin on February 4, 2025, and run through May 30, 2025, adding two new playable characters to the roster – DC’s Aquaman and Looney Tunes’ Lola Bunny. All new Season 5 content, including Aquaman and Lola Bunny, will be earnable through gameplay. Both new characters will be accessible when Season 5 begins on February 4 at 9 a.m. PST – Aquaman via the Battle Pass as the first tier reward and Lola as the daily calendar login reward.​

All online features will continue to be available until Season 5 concludes on May 30 at 9 a.m. PST. At that point, there will be an option to play MultiVersusoffline via the local gameplay mode, either solo against A.I. opponents or with up to three friends. To do this, you’ll need to install/download the latest version of the game and log in during Season 5, any time between February 4 at 9 a.m. PST and May 30 at 9 a.m. PST. After logging in, a local save file will be automatically created connected to your PlayStation Network, Microsoft Store, Steam, or Epic Games Store account, allowing you to enjoy the game offline with all earned and purchased content moving forward.​

As of today, January 31, real money transactions will no longer be available for MultiVersus, which means you can no longer purchase Gleamium, but you can still use remaining Gleamium or character tokens to access in-game content until Season 5 ends on May 30 at 9 a.m. PST. Additionally, when Season 5 finishes, the game will no longer be available to download via the PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, Steam, or Epic Games Store.​

Most importantly, we want to thank every player and person who has ever played or supported MultiVersus. All of us on the Player First Games and Warner Bros. Games teams have poured our heart and soul into this game. We will be forever grateful for the incredible support of the MultiVersus community throughout this journey.​

We hope that you all enjoy the final Season of MultiVersus. For more information, please visit our Season 5 FAQ or follow our social/community channels. ​

–The MultiVersus Team​

While it’s sad to see MultiVersus come to an end, its journey has been a testament to the power of community and collaboration. The game may have faced challenges, but it brought joy to many fans and created memorable experiences, despite WB Games’ mismanagement.

Breaking, Featured, Games, Gaming, News

The Video Game History Foundation launches its public digital library

As previously announced back on January 24th, 2025, The Video Game History Foundation has launched the public release of its digital library. This digital library is the result of years of meticulous collecting, cataloging, and digitizing video game history materials.

The library will feature a vast array of materials, including promotional artwork, game development materials, press kits, and over 1,500 out-of-print video game magazines. These magazines will be fully text-searchable, making it easier for researchers and enthusiasts to explore the history of video games.

The digital library will be accessible to the public, allowing anyone to explore its collections from anywhere in the world. This is a significant step forward in making video game history more accessible and preserving it for future generations.

Starting today, the public can access the digital library through the VGHF’s website. The foundation encourages donations to support its ongoing efforts to preserve and celebrate video game history.

A highlight for the current collections are:

  • Searchable directories and maps from the first 12 years of the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3).
  • An impressive extensive international collection of FromSoftware promotional materials, which was collected by citizen archivist Kris Urquhart and actually FromSoftware donating content.
  • 100 CDs of art and press releases from the classic GamePro magazine.
  • Over 100 hours of footage from the production of the Myst series, including never-before-seen interviews with the Cyan team.
  • The Mark Flitman papers or set of documents collected over the course of Flitman’s career at video game publishers like Konami, Acclaim, Atari, and more.

For those who doesn’t know (and should know), The Video Game History Foundation was founded in 2017 by game preservationist and historian Frank Cifaldi, with the mission to preserve, celebrate, and teach the history of video games. The foundation relies on donations to build its archives and has been working tirelessly to make these resources accessible to the public.

Recently, the VGHF has been vocal about its criticism of the US Copyright Office’s refusal to grant an exemption that would allow researchers to remotely access out-of-print video games. Despite this setback, the foundation has continued its efforts to make video game history more accessible.

Here is the link: https://archive.gamehistory.org/