Category Archives: Business

Business, Gaming, News

Jason Citron Steps Down as CEO of Discord

After nearly a decade at the helm of one of the internet’s most beloved communication platforms, Jason Citron, co-founder and CEO of Discord, has announced his decision to step down. This marks a significant transition for the company, which has evolved from a niche gaming chat app into a cultural phenomenon with over 200 million monthly active users.

Starting April 28th, leadership will officially shift to Humam Sakhnini, a seasoned executive known for his tenure at Activision Blizzard and King. While Citron is stepping away from day-to-day operations, he will remain on Discord’s board and serve as an advisor, ensuring that the company’s original vision and community-first ethos remain intact.

The Legacy of Jason Citron

Citron’s journey with Discord began in 2015, when he and co-founder Stanislav Vishnevskiy sought to create a better way for gamers to communicate online. What started as a simple fix for unreliable voice chat quickly grew into something much bigger—a digital home for communities, creators, and businesses alike.

Under Citron’s leadership, Discord expanded beyond gaming, becoming a hub for study groups, fan clubs, developers, artists, and even political activists. The company’s workforce has also grown significantly, with around 870 employees today.

Citron’s departure comes amid growing speculation that Discord is preparing for an IPO. Reports suggest that the company has met with investment bankers to discuss a potential initial public offering (IPO) as soon as this year.

While Discord has not officially confirmed these rumors, the hiring of a high-profile executive like Sakhnini has fueled speculation. In a recent interview, Citron addressed the IPO chatter with cautious optimism, stating: “We don’t have anything to announce, but as you can imagine, hiring someone like Humam is a step in that direction.”

What’s Next for Discord?

With Sakhnini at the helm, Discord is poised for its next phase of growth. His experience in scaling entertainment businesses and monetizing digital platforms could signal new revenue strategies for Discord, including potential advertising models and premium features.

As the company navigates this transition, one thing remains clear: Discord’s impact on online communication is undeniable. Whether it moves forward with an IPO or continues to operate as a private entity, its influence on gaming, tech, and broader digital culture is set to grow even further.

Business, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Response to the Palworld lawsuit by Pocketpair revealed!

Pocketpair, the developer behind Palworld, has taken a bold stance in its legal battle against Nintendo and The Pokémon Company. The lawsuit, filed in Japan, accuses Palworld of infringing on patents related to monster-catching gameplay mechanics. Pocket Pair, however, has mounted a defense by citing prior works that utilized similar mechanics, arguing that Nintendo’s patents should not have been granted.

Revealed by Gamesfray, Pokectpair filed back in February its defense that went for two months under the radar and the TLDR is that Nintendo is conveniently pointing finger just for the mere selective pointing.

Pocket Pair’s defense hinges on the concept of “prior art,” which refers to previously existing works that demonstrate the mechanics in question were not novel at the time of Nintendo’s patent applications. The developer has listed several games and mods, including Rune Factory 5, Titanfall 2, Pikmin 3 Deluxe, Far Cry 5, Tomb Raider, and Final Fantasy XIV, as examples of prior art.

They argue that these titles already featured mechanics like releasing monsters or capture items, throwable objects, and targeting systems.

Additionally, Pocket Pair has pointed to its own game, Craftopia, as evidence that similar mechanics were already in use before Palworld. The developer also referenced mods like Pocket Souls for Dark Souls 3 and Nukamon for Fallout, as well as games like Monster Hunter 4G and Octopath Traveler, to bolster its case.

As you recall, the lawsuit was filed last year by Nintendo and instead of going of the aesthetic likeness that some Pals have with Pokémon creatures, had the Japanese veteran going for specific legal term with patents which some of the were granted in middle of the lawsuit’s run, specifically patents: 7,545,191, 7,493,117, and 7,528,390. These patents cover various game mechanics, including the use and activation of “rideable characters” and the process of aiming and throwing a captured item at a character to capture it in a virtual space.

Evidently, U.S. Patent No. 12,179,111 is the American equivalent and consolidated patent of the previous three.

In a first mode, an aiming direction in a virtual space is determined based on a second operation input, and a player character is caused to launch, in the aiming direction, an item that affects a field character disposed on a field in the virtual space, based on a third operation input. In a second mode, the aiming direction is determined, based on the second operation input, and the player character is caused to launch, in the aiming direction, a fighting character that fights, based on the third operation input.

Nintendo and The Pokémon Company are each seeking 5 million yen, plus late payment fees.

This case raises important questions about the balance between intellectual property protection and creative freedom in the gaming industry. While Pocket Pair’s defense challenges the validity of Nintendo’s patents, the outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

Niantic running its 1st layoffs post selling gaming business that included Pokémon Go & Monster Hunter Now

Niantic, a pioneering game developer best known for its hit game Pokémon Go, has long been synonymous with augmented reality gaming. It earned a reputation for turning ordinary streets into magical gaming landscapes, encouraging players to explore the world around them while hunting for virtual creatures. Its innovative approach to gaming drew millions of players into its virtual worlds, blending physical activity and social engagement.

Niantic began as an internal startup within Google before becoming an independent entity in 2015. With Pokémon Go’s release in 2016, the company skyrocketed to fame, redefining mobile gaming by integrating AR technology into gameplay. The app became a cultural phenomenon, attracting players of all ages. Niantic continued to expand its portfolio with titles like Ingress and Harry Potter: Wizards Unite, cementing its position as a leader in the AR gaming industry.

However, even with its success, Niantic faced challenges. In 2023, the company had to downsize significantly due to financial difficulties and unmet internal goals. This included the closure of its Los Angeles studio and layoffs impacting 230 employees. These cuts highlighted the pressures of sustaining its ambitious projects and maintaining profitability in a competitive market.

Fast forward to 2025, Niantic has entered a new chapter with its acquisition by Scopely for $3.5 billion. Scopely, a renowned gaming company under Saudi Arabia’s Savvy Games Group, now owns Niantic’s gaming division. This acquisition has led to significant restructuring, including the formation of Niantic Spatial—a new entity focusing on geospatial AI technology.

As part of this transition, Niantic announced that it would lay off 68 employees, effective May 20, 2025. The layoffs, according to CEO John Hanke, are aimed at aligning the company with its new startup-like approach and geospatial AI focus. Hanke assured that these layoffs are not performance-related but are necessary for streamlining operations.

With Scopely’s involvement, there have been concerns among players about potential changes to Niantic’s games, particularly Pokémon Go. However, Niantic has reassured fans that the core experience of its games will remain intact under the new leadership. Despite the challenges, Niantic continues to boast a robust player base, with over 30 million monthly active users across its games.

The acquisition represents a pivotal moment for Niantic, as it shifts from its gaming roots to explore broader applications of geospatial AI. Whether this new direction will yield success and innovation remains to be seen, but Niantic’s journey thus far underscores its resilience and adaptability.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

Eidos Montreal confirms reduction of workforce despite there are projects running

Eidos Montreal, the studio behind acclaimed titles like Deus Ex: Mankind Divided and Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy, has once again found itself in the unfortunate position of laying off employees. The company recently announced that 75 staff members would be let go due to the conclusion of one of its mandates. While the studio has assured that its ongoing projects remain unaffected, this move raises concerns about the broader challenges facing the gaming industry.

The Reason Behind the Layoffs

According to Eidos Montreal, the layoffs are not a reflection of the employees’ skills or dedication but rather a result of the studio’s inability to reallocate them to other projects. The company stated that it is working to support those affected during this transition, emphasizing the talent and experience of the individuals entering the job market.

This announcement follows a series of layoffs within the gaming industry, particularly among studios under the Embracer Group umbrella, which acquired Eidos Montreal in 2022. The acquisition initially sparked excitement, with hopes of revitalizing franchises like Deus Ex. However, financial struggles within Embracer Group led to project cancellations and workforce reductions, including a previous round of layoffs at Eidos Montreal in 2024.

A Pattern of Industry-Wide Layoffs

Eidos Montreal is not alone in facing workforce reductions. The gaming industry has seen widespread layoffs over the past few years, with major studios cutting staff due to financial constraints, project cancellations, and shifting priorities. Embracer Group itself has been undergoing restructuring, affecting multiple studios, including Crystal Dynamics.

The layoffs at Eidos Montreal highlight the volatility of the gaming industry, where even successful studios are not immune to financial pressures. While the company remains committed to delivering its ongoing projects, the future remains uncertain for both the studio and its employees.

What’s Next for Eidos Montreal?

Despite the layoffs, Eidos Montreal has assured fans that its current projects remain in development. The studio has been assisting Playground Games with the upcoming Fable reboot, though it is unclear whether this collaboration will continue following the recent workforce reduction.

For the affected employees, the transition will be challenging, but their experience and talent will undoubtedly make them valuable assets in the gaming industry. As the industry continues to evolve, studios must find ways to balance financial sustainability with creative ambition.

The layoffs at Eidos Montreal serve as a stark reminder of the industry’s unpredictability. While the studio remains committed to its future projects, the gaming world watches closely to see how it navigates these turbulent times.

What are your thoughts on the state of the gaming industry? Do you think Embracer Group’s restructuring will stabilize in the coming years? Let’s discuss.

Breaking, Business, Featured, Gaming, News

Ubisoft to found a subsidiary along with Tencent Games

Ubisoft, the renowned French video game company, has taken a significant step in its evolution by announcing the creation of a new subsidiary, with Tencent, the Chinese tech giant, acquiring a minority stake in this venture. This move marks a pivotal moment in Ubisoft’s history, reflecting its ambition to adapt to the ever-changing gaming landscape and solidify its position as a leader in the industry.

On March 27, 2025, Ubisoft revealed its plans to establish a dedicated subsidiary focused on three of its most iconic franchises: Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six. Tencent has invested €1.16 billion (approximately $1.25 billion) for a 25% stake in this new entity, which is valued at €4 billion. This subsidiary aims to create “evergreen” game ecosystems that are multi-platform, integrating free-to-play elements, multiplayer expansions, and enhanced social features.

The decision to form this subsidiary comes after months of strategic deliberations. Ubisoft’s leadership, including CEO Yves Guillemot, emphasized that this move is designed to boost the creative and financial potential of its flagship franchises while ensuring long-term growth and sustainability.

The Backstory

The journey to this announcement has been shaped by several factors. Over the past few years, Ubisoft faced challenges, including delays in game releases, internal restructuring, and increased competition in the gaming industry. These hurdles prompted the company to explore new strategies to remain competitive and innovative.

In early 2025, Ubisoft initiated a formal process to evaluate strategic options for its future. This included discussions with potential investors and partners. Tencent, already a shareholder in Ubisoft, emerged as a key player in these negotiations. The partnership with Tencent is not only a financial boost but also a strategic alliance that leverages Tencent’s expertise in the gaming market, particularly in Asia.

The Vision

The new subsidiary represents Ubisoft’s commitment to delivering high-quality gaming experiences. By focusing on its most successful franchises, the company aims to expand its reach and appeal to a broader audience. The investment from Tencent will enable Ubisoft to enhance its narrative-driven solo experiences, introduce more frequent multiplayer content, and explore disruptive technologies for new intellectual properties.

This announcement also underscores Ubisoft’s dedication to its creative teams. The subsidiary will operate with a degree of autonomy, allowing it to innovate and adapt quickly to market demands. Ubisoft’s leadership has expressed confidence that this move will unlock the full potential of its franchises and set the stage for future success.

Ubisoft’s partnership with Tencent and the creation of this new subsidiary signal a bold step forward for the company. It reflects a strategic shift towards agility, innovation, and global collaboration. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, this move positions Ubisoft to thrive in an increasingly competitive market while staying true to its legacy of creating memorable gaming experiences.

Breaking, Business, Gaming, News

Game Informer has pressed “Continue” and will return as independent outlet

The gaming world has witnessed a remarkable comeback with the return of Game Informer, a publication that has been a cornerstone of gaming journalism for over three decades. After its abrupt shutdown in August 2024, the magazine’s revival marks a new era of independence and innovation, thanks to its acquisition by Gunzilla Games.

A Legacy Interrupted

Game Informer, once owned by GameStop, faced significant challenges in recent years, including layoffs and operational overhauls. The shutdown last summer left the gaming community in shock, as the magazine had been a trusted source for gaming news, reviews, and insights since its inception. For many, Game Informer was more than just a publication; it was a gateway into the world of gaming, inspiring careers and fostering a deep appreciation for the industry.

The Road to Revival

The revival of Game Informer was made possible by Gunzilla Games, a studio co-founded by Neill Blomkamp, Vlad Korolov, and Alex Zoll. Gunzilla Games acquired the rights to Game Informer from GameStop and established it as an independent entity, Game Informer Inc. This move ensured that the publication could operate without external influence, allowing its editorial team to make decisions freely and ethically.

Editor-in-Chief Matt Miller expressed his gratitude for the trust and enthusiasm shown by Gunzilla Games, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the magazine’s legacy while embracing new opportunities. The entire team that was part of Game Informer at the time of its closure has returned, bringing their expertise and passion back to the publication.

Game Informer’s return is not just about resuming operations; it’s about reimagining its role in the gaming industry. The magazine’s website is live again, featuring a backlog of content, including reviews and features created during its hiatus. The physical magazine will also make a comeback, promising to be bigger and better than before.

In the coming weeks, Game Informer plans to introduce membership and subscription benefits, expand its video and streaming coverage, and broaden its range of expert perspectives. The publication aims to celebrate the history and legacy of gaming while shining a spotlight on the creators and players shaping its future.

A Bright Future

The return of Game Informer is a testament to the resilience and passion of its team and the gaming community. With its renewed independence and commitment to excellence, Game Informer is poised to continue its legacy as a trusted voice in gaming journalism. As the industry evolves, Game Informer will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in documenting its journey and inspiring the next generation of gamers.

Game Informer’s comeback is more than just a revival; it’s a celebration of the enduring spirit of gaming and the people who make it extraordinary. Welcome back, Game Informer—you’ve been missed.

Business, Gaming, News

CD Projekt Red announces partnership with Scopely in earning conference

CD Projekt Red, the acclaimed Polish video game developer behind The Witcher and Cyberpunk 2077, has recently captured the gaming world’s attention with its robust earnings report and a groundbreaking partnership with Scopely. This collaboration hints at exciting possibilities, including a potential Pokémon Go-style or Monster Hunter Now-inspired game.

Could this be tied to their enigmatic new IP, Project Hadar? Let’s explore.

Earnings Overview

CD Projekt Red has demonstrated remarkable resilience, bouncing back from the initial challenges of Cyberpunk 2077‘s launch. The company reported revenues of 228 million PLN in Q3 2024, equivalent to approximately $59.22 million USD (based on an exchange rate of 3.85 PLN to 1 USD). This impressive performance was driven by the continued success of Cyberpunk 2077 and its expansion, Phantom Liberty, as well as the enduring popularity of The Witcher 3. These results underscore the studio’s ability to deliver high-quality gaming experiences that resonate with players worldwide.

The announcement of a partnership with Scopely, a leader in mobile gaming, marks a significant milestone for CD Projekt Red. Scopely is renowned for adapting major franchises into successful mobile games, including its recent acquisition of assets from Niantic, such as Pokémon Go and Monster Hunter Now. This collaboration suggests that CD Projekt Red may be exploring the mobile gaming market, potentially adapting its beloved franchises like The Witcher or Cyberpunk for a new audience.

While specific details about the partnership remain under wraps, the timing aligns with CD Projekt Red’s broader strategy to diversify its portfolio and reach new players. The partnership was highlighted during the company’s latest earnings call, sparking speculation about what this collaboration could entail.

A New Gaming Experience?

Given Scopely’s expertise in location-based and augmented reality games, the idea of a Pokémon Go-style game set in the Witcher universe or a Monster Hunter Now-inspired game featuring Cyberpunk characters is both plausible and exciting. Imagine venturing into real-world locations to hunt monsters, complete quests, or uncover hidden treasures, all while immersing yourself in the rich lore of CD Projekt Red’s worlds. Such a game could not only attract a new audience but also redefine how players interact with their favorite franchises.

Project Hadar: A Glimpse into the Future

Project Hadar, announced as CD Projekt Red’s first standalone IP developed entirely in-house, represents a bold new chapter for the studio. Unlike The Witcher and Cyberpunk, which are based on existing source material, Project Hadar is a completely original creation. The project has been in the conceptual phase since late 2021 and is expected to be an RPG, staying true to CD Projekt Red’s strengths.

Could the Scopely partnership be part of Project Hadar’s development? If Project Hadar incorporates elements of augmented reality or location-based gameplay, it would align seamlessly with Scopely’s expertise. This would mark a significant evolution for CD Projekt Red, blending its storytelling prowess with innovative gameplay mechanics.

CD Projekt Red’s recent achievements and strategic moves signal a promising future for the studio. Whether it’s a mobile adaptation of its iconic franchises or a groundbreaking new IP like Project Hadar, the possibilities are endless. As fans eagerly await more details, one thing is certain: CD Projekt Red continues to push the boundaries of gaming.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

LightSpeed Japan Studio is working on a new game by Dragon’s Dogma Director

Hideaki Itsuno, the legendary game director behind iconic titles like Devil May Cry and Dragon’s Dogma, has embarked on an exciting new chapter in his career by joining LightSpeed Japan Studio, a subsidiary of Tencent Games’ LightSpeed Studios. This marks a significant milestone in the gaming industry, as Itsuno’s expertise and vision are set to shape the studio’s focus on developing original AAA action games.

A New Era for LightSpeed Japan Studio

LightSpeed Japan Studio operates from two locations in Tokyo and Osaka, offering a flexible and inclusive working environment designed to foster innovation. The studio aims to push the boundaries of game creation by integrating multi-platform and cross-device technologies, creating an environment where creativity and technical excellence thrive.

Itsuno’s Vision

Itsuno expressed his enthusiasm for this new venture, stating that he looks forward to creating original AAA action game titles with the talented team at LightSpeed Japan Studio. His goal is to build aesthetic and innovative experiences for the global player community. The studio is actively recruiting passionate game creators to join its mission of delivering the best games possible to players worldwide.

Legacy and Impact

Itsuno’s career spans over three decades, during which he directed numerous acclaimed titles, including Devil May Cry 3, Devil May Cry 4, Dragon’s Dogma, and Devil May Cry 5. His move to LightSpeed Japan Studio is seen as a significant step in LightSpeed Studios’ global expansion and commitment to bringing high-quality games to players.

This development is not just a career milestone for Itsuno but also a promising leap forward for LightSpeed Studios as it continues to innovate and expand its presence in the gaming world. What are your thoughts on this exciting collaboration?

Business, Featured, Games, Gaming, News

Niantic to sell gaming division along Pokémon Go, Monster Hunter Now and other AR games

In a groundbreaking move, Niantic, the developer behind some of the most iconic augmented reality (AR) games, has confirmed the sale of its gaming division to Scopely, a mobile gaming powerhouse. This $3.5 billion deal marks a significant shift in the gaming landscape, with implications for beloved titles like Pokémon GO, Monster Hunter Now, and Pikmin Bloom. The acquisition also brings Scopely’s own hit, Monopoly GO!, into sharper focus as part of its expanding portfolio. But what does this mean for players, developers, and even industry giants like Nintendo? Let’s dive in.

Niantic’s decision to sell its gaming division comes as the company shifts its focus toward geospatial AI and real-world mapping technologies under a new entity, Niantic Spatial. While Pokémon GO remains a cultural phenomenon with over 100 million unique players in 2024, Niantic has struggled to replicate its success with other titles. This sale allows Niantic to double down on its new vision while ensuring its games continue to thrive under Scopely’s stewardship.

What This Means for Key Titles

  1. Pokémon GO: As the crown jewel of Niantic’s portfolio, Pokémon GO has set the standard for AR gaming. Scopely has assured players that the game will remain true to its spirit, with the original development team continuing to lead its evolution. However, concerns about Scopely’s monetization practices—known for aggressive in-app purchases in games like Monopoly GO!—have raised questions about the future of Pokémon GO‘s player-friendly model.
  2. Monster Hunter Now: This AR adaptation of Capcom’s popular franchise has gained traction since its release in 2023. Under Scopely, the game could see enhanced features and events, leveraging Scopely’s expertise in live services to deepen player engagement.
  3. Pikmin Bloom: A walking game that encourages exploration and community interaction, Pikmin Bloom aligns well with Scopely’s focus on social gaming. Players can expect continued support and possibly new updates to enrich the experience.
  4. Monopoly GO!: Already a top earner for Scopely, this game could benefit from cross-promotional opportunities with Niantic’s titles, creating a more interconnected gaming ecosystem.

Nintendo’s Role and the Saudi Connection

The sale also highlights a broader trend: the increasing influence of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) in the gaming industry. Scopely, backed by Saudi-owned Savvy Games Group, now holds a significant stake in AR gaming. This raises questions about how industry leaders like Nintendo will navigate this evolving landscape. With the PIF already owning an 8% stake in Nintendo, the Japanese gaming giant faces the challenge of maintaining its independence while adapting to a market increasingly shaped by external investments.

For players, the immediate future of Niantic’s games appears stable, with Scopely committed to preserving their core experiences. However, the long-term impact of this acquisition—particularly in terms of monetization and community engagement—remains to be seen. For Niantic, this marks a bold new chapter focused on geospatial AI, while Scopely solidifies its position as a leader in mobile gaming.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, this deal serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between innovation, player satisfaction, and corporate strategy. Whether this new era will enhance or diminish the magic of games like Pokémon GO is a story still unfolding.

Business, Gaming, News

Metal Gear Solid Delta Snake Eater Co-developer to expand

Virtuos, most recently known for co-developing Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, is taking its operations to the next level by opening a new branch in South Korea. The announcement, as reported by Video Games Chronicle (VGC), reveals an exciting step for the company as it seeks to expand its influence in the thriving South Korean gaming industry.

The new studio, called Virtuos Seoul, is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing unique challenges faced by Korean game developers while fostering stronger global collaboration.

One of Virtuos Seoul’s main goals will be to help Korean games reach international audiences while simultaneously bringing global content into the South Korean market. The vision is to unlock new opportunities by connecting studios to untapped global markets and providing players with fresh and diverse content.

The general manager of the newly established studio, Sean Yoon, justified the move as South Korea has become a new capital in gaming and that the hype behind Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater are a good benchmark.

Gaming is deeply ingrained in Korean culture. As the world’s fourth-largest games market, South Korea has produced some of the world’s biggest hits and remains a top gaming hub.

Establishing the physical studio in Seoul enables Virtuos to directly address the unique challenges faced by Korean studios, with the proximity facilitating closer co-development and collaboration. We look forward to helping bring more Korean games to the global stage and vice versa, unlocking new audiences for studios and new content for players alike.

As a reminder, the Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater remake itself is set to release this August and has been praised for retaining the charm of the original while modernizing its gameplay and visuals.