Category Archives: Business

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.

Business, Gaming, News

Until Dawn Remake’s developer Ballistic Moon is closing down

In the ever-evolving world of video game development, few stories are as poignant as that of Ballistic Moon, the studio behind the highly anticipated Until Dawn Remake. This blog post delves into the backstory of Ballistic Moon, their journey in the gaming industry, and the unfortunate circumstances that led to their closure.

Ballistic Moon was a relatively new player in the gaming industry, founded by a group of passionate developers with a shared vision of creating immersive and engaging gaming experiences. The studio’s first major project was the remake of the critically acclaimed horror game, Until Dawn. This ambitious endeavor aimed to bring the chilling narrative and atmospheric tension of the original game to a new generation of gamers on the PlayStation 5 and PC.

The development of the Until Dawn Remake was a labor of love for the team at Ballistic Moon. They spent years meticulously rebuilding and enhancing the game, ensuring that it stayed true to the spirit of the original while incorporating modern graphics and gameplay improvements. The studio’s dedication to quality was evident in every aspect of the game, from the detailed character models to the hauntingly realistic environments.

However, the journey was not without its challenges. The gaming industry is notoriously volatile, and Ballistic Moon faced numerous obstacles along the way. Despite their best efforts, the studio struggled to secure consistent funding and publisher support. This financial instability would eventually prove to be their undoing.

According with Insider Gamer, in September 2024, Ballistic Moon announced significant layoffs, citing the need to scale down their team to secure the studio’s future. This decision affected many talented developers who had poured their hearts into the Until Dawn Remake. Despite these efforts, the studio continued to face financial difficulties, and by December 2024, they quietly laid off the remaining staff, effectively ceasing all operations3.

The closure of Ballistic Moon was a heartbreaking moment for the gaming community. The studio’s founders and a handful of remaining employees held on to the hope that they might secure new funding or a publisher to revive the studio. However, as of now, there are no employees left in public relations, marketing, or development, and the studio remains inactive.

The story of Ballistic Moon serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by independent game developers. Despite their passion and dedication, external factors such as funding and publisher support play a crucial role in a studio’s survival. The Until Dawn Remake stands as a testament to the talent and hard work of the Ballistic Moon team, and their contributions to the gaming industry will not be forgotten.

As we reflect on the rise and fall of Ballistic Moon, we are reminded of the resilience and creativity that drive the gaming industry forward. While the studio may have closed its doors, the impact of their work will continue to inspire future generations of game developers.

Breaking, Business, Gaming, News

Acclaim is back to help indies developers and hopefully learned from its former self’s mistakes

In the ever-evolving world of video games, few names evoke as much nostalgia as Acclaim Entertainment. Founded in 1987, Acclaim was a powerhouse in the gaming industry, responsible for bringing some of the most beloved franchises to life. From the adrenaline-pumping action of “Mortal Kombat” to the prehistoric adventures of “Turok,” Acclaim’s logo was a familiar sight for gamers of the ’80s and ’90s. However, the company’s journey was not without its ups and downs, culminating in its bankruptcy in 2004. Now, over two decades later, Acclaim is making a triumphant return, and its story is one worth telling.

The Rise and Fall of Acclaim

Acclaim Entertainment was founded with a clear vision: to become a dominant force in the gaming industry. The company’s name was strategically chosen to appear before competitors like Activision and Accolade in alphabetical listings. This clever marketing move was just the beginning of Acclaim’s innovative approach to the industry.

Throughout the late ’80s and ’90s, Acclaim published a plethora of iconic games. Titles like “NBA Jam,” “Burnout,” and “Mary-Kate and Ashley: Sweet 16 – License to Drive” became household names. The company’s success was not limited to a single genre; it spanned sports, action, and even licensed games based on popular TV shows and movies.

However, as the new millennium approached, Acclaim faced increasing financial difficulties. The company’s aggressive marketing strategies, such as reimbursing UK drivers with speeding tickets to promote “Burnout 2” and urging parents to name their baby “Turok” for a contest, were not enough to stave off bankruptcy. In September 2004, Acclaim filed for bankruptcy, leaving behind a legacy of both triumphs and controversies.

The Resurrection of Acclaim

Fast forward to 2025, and Acclaim is back, but with a new mission and a fresh approach. The company has re-entered the market with a focus on supporting independent developers and revitalizing its classic franchises. Under the leadership of new CEO Alex Josef, Acclaim aims to provide funding, marketing, and PR support to indie studios looking to break into the industry.

Josef, a veteran of the gaming industry with over two decades of experience, is passionate about bringing Acclaim back to the forefront. “It’s an absolute honor and pleasure to be leading the charge in bringing Acclaim back to the forefront of the games industry,” Josef said. The company has already signed several indie titles, which will be revealed soon.

To achieve its goals, Acclaim has assembled an advisory board comprising industry veterans like Russell Binder at Striker Entertainment, Mark Caplan at Ridge Partners, and WWE legend Jeff Jarrett at Global Force Entertainment. This diverse team brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, ensuring that Acclaim’s revival is both strategic and impactful.

A New Era for Acclaim

The return of Acclaim is not just about nostalgia; it’s about innovation and adaptation. The company recognizes the importance of indie developers in today’s gaming landscape and is committed to providing them with the resources they need to succeed. By supporting indie studios and breathing new life into its classic IPs, Acclaim aims to make a significant impact on the industry once again.

As gamers eagerly await the announcement of the new titles and the revival of beloved franchises, one thing is clear: Acclaim’s return is a testament to the enduring power of great games and the passion of those who create them. The company’s journey from its rise in the ’80s to its fall in 2004, and now its resurrection in 2025, is a story of resilience, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

In the words of Jeff Jarrett, “Resurrecting Acclaim is an opportunity to impart the same degree of passion and love to a new generation, and I’m excited to be involved”. With a talented team, a clear vision, and a commitment to supporting the next generation of game developers, Acclaim is poised to make its mark on the gaming world once again.

Business, Featured, Gaming, News

Rockstar Games bought one of its bigger gaming developer partner

Rockstar Games has recently made headlines with its acquisition of Video Games Deluxe, a Sydney-based game development studio. This move marks a significant expansion for Rockstar, as it establishes a new development hub in Australia, aptly named Rockstar Australia.

Video Games Deluxe has a long history of collaboration with Rockstar Games. The studio was founded by Brendan McNamara, who previously led Team Bondi, the creators of the critically acclaimed game LA Noire. After Team Bondi’s dissolution in 2011, McNamara and several key staff members moved to Video Games Deluxe, which has since worked exclusively on Rockstar projects.

The partnership between Rockstar and Video Games Deluxe has yielded several successful projects. These include the 2017 re-release of LA Noire, LA Noire: The VR Case Files, and the much-anticipated Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition. Video Games Deluxe played a crucial role in bringing these titles to life, showcasing their expertise and dedication to quality2.

The Acquisition

The acquisition of Video Games Deluxe by Rockstar Games was announced with much enthusiasm from both parties. Jennifer Kolbe, head of publishing at Rockstar, expressed excitement about the new addition to the Rockstar family.

After working together closely over many years, we are excited to have Video Games Deluxe join the team as Rockstar Australia.

Brendan McNamara echoed this sentiment, saying:

It’s been an honor to work closely with Rockstar Games this past decade. We are thrilled to be a part of Rockstar Games and to continue our efforts to make the best games possible.

With the establishment of Rockstar Australia, the company now boasts a total of ten subsidiary studios, in addition to its headquarters in New York City. This expansion is expected to bolster Rockstar’s development capabilities and contribute to the creation of even more high-quality games in the future.

Grand Theft Auto 6

One of the most anticipated projects on Rockstar’s horizon is Grand Theft Auto 6. While the acquisition of Video Games Deluxe does not directly relate to GTA 6, it is speculated that Rockstar Australia may play a role in its development. GTA 6 is set for release later this year and is projected to sell 40 million copies, generating over $3 billion in revenue during its first year.

The acquisition of Video Games Deluxe by Rockstar Games is a strategic move that strengthens Rockstar’s global presence and development capabilities. With a proven track record of successful collaborations, Rockstar Australia is poised to contribute significantly to the company’s future projects. As the gaming community eagerly awaits the release of Grand Theft Auto 6, the addition of Rockstar Australia promises to bring even more exciting developments to the world of gaming.

Business, Gaming, News

Visions Of Mana co-director returns after its studios demise at the hands of NetEase

Ouka Studios was a subsidiary of NetEase Games, known for developing the RPG Visions of Mana, which was published by Square Enix. The studio was founded with the goal of creating high-quality games that would resonate with players worldwide. However, the journey of Ouka Studios was short-lived, as it was shut down by NetEase shortly after the release of Visions of Mana.

The founding of Ouka Studios was marked by the collaboration of talented developers, including Kenji Ozawa, who co-directed Visions of Mana. The studio aimed to bring fresh and innovative ideas to the gaming industry, leveraging the expertise of its team members. Despite the initial excitement and potential, the studio faced challenges that ultimately led to its closure.

NetEase’s decision to shut down Ouka Studios was part of a broader strategy to scale back its investment in Japanese studios. This move was driven by cost-cutting efforts and a shift in focus towards other priorities.

The closure of Ouka Studios was a significant blow to the developers who had poured their passion and creativity into their projects.

In the wake of Ouka Studios’ closure, Kenji Ozawa decided to take matters into his own hands. Motivated by the desire to protect creators and ensure that management takes responsibility for its decisions, Ozawa founded a new studio called Studio Sasanqua. This new venture aims to integrate management and development, providing a supportive environment for creators to thrive.

Studio Sasanqua’s mission is to create smaller projects using Unreal Engine, with the long-term goal of developing larger-scale games for PC and consoles. Ozawa’s vision for the studio is to foster a sense of security for developers and to take full responsibility for any management-related mistakes.

This approach is a direct response to the challenges faced by Ouka Studios and reflects Ozawa’s commitment to creating a better future for game developers.

The story of Ouka Studios serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting and supporting creators in the gaming industry. While the studio’s journey was cut short, its legacy lives on through the efforts of its former team members and the new ventures they embark on.

Business, Editorial, Featured, Games, Gaming, News

The Story Behind the cancelled Wonder Woman Game

In the ever-evolving world of video games, few stories are as intriguing and heart-wrenching as that of the cancelled Wonder Woman game. Announced with much fanfare in 2021, the game promised to be a groundbreaking addition to the superhero genre. However, despite the high hopes and the dedicated efforts of its developers, the game was ultimately shelved, leaving fans and creators alike to wonder what might have been.

The Wonder Woman game was set to be a single-player, open-world action-adventure, developed by Monolith Productions, the studio behind the acclaimed Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor and Shadow of War games. The game aimed to immerse players in the world of Themyscira, allowing them to step into the boots of Diana, the Amazonian princess, and experience her journey to unite her Amazon family with the modern world.

One of the most exciting aspects of the game was its planned use of Monolith’s Nemesis System, which had been a standout feature in the Middle-earth games. This system was designed to create dynamic relationships between the player and both enemies and allies, making each playthrough unique. In the Wonder Woman game, this system was to be adapted to allow Diana to form alliances and friendships with NPCs, adding a layer of depth and emotional engagement to the gameplay.

The Development Journey

According to past and present sources like late Game Informer and Polygon, the development of the Wonder Woman game was a tumultuous journey fraught with challenges. After the initial announcement, the project faced several hurdles, including shifting creative directions and internal restructuring. In 2024, the game underwent a significant reboot, resulting in the removal of the Nemesis System, which had been a cornerstone of the original vision.

The game was reimagined as a more traditional action-adventure title, drawing comparisons to the God of War series.

Despite these changes, the team at Monolith Productions remained committed to creating a game that would do justice to the iconic character of Wonder Woman. According to Gail Simone, a veteran comic book writer who served as a consultant on the project, the game was “gorgeous and expansive,” and every effort was made to ensure it would be a standout title. The developers poured their hearts and souls into the project, hoping to create an experience that would resonate with fans.

The Cancellation

In February 2025, Warner Bros. Games announced the closure of Monolith Productions, along with two other studios, Player First Games and WB San Diego. This decision was part of a broader strategic shift within the company, which aimed to focus on its key franchises such as Harry Potter, Batman, Mortal Kombat, and Game of Thrones.

The cancellation of the Wonder Woman game was a significant blow to both the developers and the fans. The project had reportedly cost Warner Bros. over $100 million and was still years away from release. Despite the best efforts of the team, the game was ultimately deemed not viable within the company’s new strategic priorities. The decision left many questioning the future of superhero games and whether other iconic characters would suffer a similar fate.

While the Wonder Woman game will never see the light of day, its story serves as a testament to the passion and dedication of its creators. The game’s development journey was fraught with challenges, but the team at Monolith Productions remained committed to their vision until the very end. Their efforts showcased the potential for innovative gameplay and storytelling within the superhero genre.

For fans, the cancellation of the Wonder Woman game is a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of the video game industry. Projects can be announced with great excitement, only to be shelved years later due to shifting priorities and unforeseen challenges. However, the dream of a Wonder Woman game lives on, and perhaps one day, another team will take up the mantle and bring Diana’s story to life in the way it deserves.

In the meantime, fans can continue to enjoy Wonder Woman’s adventures in other media, from comics and animated series to blockbuster films. The legacy of the cancelled game may serve as inspiration for future developers, who can learn from its trials and tribulations to create even more compelling and innovative experiences for players.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

WB Games cuts internal studio as response of Warner Bros. Discovery Q4 2024 performance

WarnerMedia, now part of Warner Bros. Discovery, recently released its earnings report for the fourth quarter of 2024. The report highlighted both achievements and challenges faced by the media giant. While the company saw growth in some areas, it also had to make tough decisions, particularly within its gaming division.

Warner Bros. Discovery reported a fiscal fourth-quarter revenue of $10.03 billion, a slight decline of 1% year-over-year. The company’s net loss widened to $494 million from $400 million the previous year. Despite these setbacks, the company’s studios segment saw a 16% increase in revenue, reaching $3.66 billion. This growth was driven by an increase in TV revenue, although it was offset by declines in theatrical and games revenue.

The direct-to-consumer (DTC) segment also showed positive results, with total DTC subscribers increasing to 116.9 million from 110.5 million a year ago. The company aims to reach 150 million subscribers by 2026.

WB Games: Studio Closures and Cancellations

One of the most significant and unfortunate developments in the earnings report was the announcement of multiple studio closures within WB Games. The company decided to shut down three studios: Monolith Productions, Player First Games, and WB San Diego. This decision was part of a strategic shift to focus on fewer but bigger franchises, such as Harry Potter, Mortal Kombat, DC, and Game of Thrones.

Monolith Productions, known for its critically acclaimed Middle-earth series, was working on a highly anticipated Wonder Woman game. Unfortunately, the game has been canceled as part of the studio’s closure. The Wonder Woman game was expected to be an open-world action-adventure title featuring the iconic DC character, but it faced numerous development challenges and was still years away from release.

Player First Games, the studio behind the platform fighter MultiVersus, and WB San Diego, which focused on mobile games, were also affected by the closures. The decision to shut down these studios was not a reflection of the talent within them but rather a strategic move to allocate resources more effectively.

Impact on the Gaming Industry

The closure of these studios and the cancellation of the Wonder Woman game have sent shockwaves through the gaming industry. Monolith Productions, in particular, had a storied history of delivering high-quality games, and its closure marks the end of an era. The decision to focus on fewer but bigger franchises may help Warner Bros. Discovery streamline its operations and improve profitability, but it also means that fans will miss out on potentially groundbreaking games.

Warner Bros. Discovery’s earnings report underscores the challenges and opportunities facing the company. While the financial performance showed some positive trends, the tough decisions within WB Games highlight the difficulties of navigating the competitive gaming industry. As the company moves forward, it will need to balance its strategic priorities with the expectations of its fans and stakeholders.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

NetEase in a rare moment of optimizing resource in middle of the Marvel Rivals hype

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.

Marvel Rivals’ 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.

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.

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.

NetEase’s Financial Performance

On February 20, 2025, NetEase announced its unaudited financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 31, 2024. The company reported net revenues of RMB26.7 billion (US$3.7 billion), a slight decrease of 1.4% compared to the same quarter of 20231. However, the Games and Related Value-Added Services segment saw an increase in net revenues to RMB21.2 billion (US$2.9 billion), up 1.5% year-over-year.

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.

Business, Featured, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Xbox Muse is the start of serious AI use in gaming preservation and re-development

Microsoft has recently unveiled an exciting new development in the gaming world: Xbox Muse, a generative AI model designed to revolutionize game ideation and preservation. Developed in collaboration with Xbox Game Studios’ Ninja Theory, Muse is a groundbreaking tool that leverages real player inputs to create gameplay sequences.

What is Xbox Muse?

Xbox Muse, short for World and Human Action Model (WHAM), is a generative AI model trained using data from Ninja Theory’s multiplayer battle arena game, Bleeding Edge. The model can generate both game visuals and controller actions, providing a detailed understanding of the 3D game world, including game physics and player interactions.

How Does Xbox Muse Work?

Muse was trained using anonymized data from 500,000 play sessions of Bleeding Edge. This extensive dataset allows the AI to simulate realistic gameplay sequences, demonstrating a significant step towards generative AI models that can empower game creators2. The model can generate gameplay visuals at a resolution of 300×180 pixels, a considerable improvement over previous models.

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Potential Applications of Xbox Muse

One of the most exciting aspects of Xbox Muse is its potential to revive nostalgic games that are no longer playable on modern hardware. By leveraging AI technology, developers can port old games to new platforms, making them accessible to future generations of players2. This not only preserves gaming history but also opens up new creative possibilities for game developers.

Microsoft plans to discuss AI experiences from Xbox in greater detail at the Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2025. Additionally, the company aims to make a series of AI-powered game experiences available on its Copilot Labs website, where subscribers can access various experimental AI features.

Xbox Muse represents a significant advancement in the intersection of AI and gaming. By harnessing the power of generative AI, Microsoft is paving the way for innovative game development and the preservation of classic games. As we look forward to more updates from Microsoft, the gaming community eagerly anticipates the exciting possibilities that Xbox Muse will bring.

Business, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Pokémon Go & other popular AR games could land in Saudi Arabia Kingdom’s hand

Niantic, the developer behind the global phenomenon Pokémon Go, is reportedly exploring the sale of its gaming division to Savvy Games Group, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). This potential deal could significantly reshape the mobile gaming industry and raise questions about the future of Niantic’s popular AR games.

The Potential Deal

According to reports from sources of Bloomberg, Niantic is in advanced discussions with Savvy Games Group to sell its gaming business for approximately $3.5 billion. The deal would likely include Pokémon Go, Monster Hunter Now, and other titles developed by Niantic. While the terms of the deal remain confidential, sources suggest that an agreement could be reached in the coming weeks.

For Niantic, the sale would allow the company to focus on other ventures, including the development of AR technology for various applications beyond gaming. Niantic has been exploring areas such as geospatial data projects and the creation of a real-world AR metaverse. The sale would provide the company with the resources to pursue these initiatives more aggressively.

Impact on Pokémon Go and Other AR Games

The potential acquisition raises questions about the future of Pokémon Go and other Niantic games. Players are curious about Savvy Games Group’s plans for the acquired titles and whether they will continue to support and develop them. While Pokémon Go remains a major hit for Niantic, its subsequent games have not achieved the same level of success. The acquisition could provide Savvy Games Group with a platform for future growth in the AR gaming space.

The gaming community is closely watching the developments. Many fans of Pokémon Go and other Niantic games are concerned about potential changes under Savvy Games Group, especially regarding monetization and game updates. The community has expressed mixed feelings about the potential sale, with some hoping for continued support and others worried about the impact of the new ownership.

The potential sale of Niantic’s gaming division to Savvy Games Group could mark a new chapter in the company’s story. While the deal is not yet finalized, the fact that discussions are reportedly taking place indicates a potential shift in the gaming industry and the strategies of both companies. The future of Pokémon Go and other AR games remains uncertain, but the acquisition could provide opportunities for growth and innovation in the AR gaming space.