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.
GOG, the renowned digital storefront known for its commitment to DRM-free gaming, has recently unveiled an exciting update to its platform: the Dreamlist. This revamped feature, previously known as the Community Wishlist, is designed to empower gamers to influence which classic games are brought back to life.
The Dreamlist serves as a community-driven tool where gamers can vote for their favorite games that they want to see available on GOG. It’s not just about nostalgia; it’s about preserving gaming history and making beloved titles accessible to new generations. Each game on the Dreamlist has its own dedicated page, complete with detailed descriptions, screenshots, and trailers. Gamers can also share their personal stories and memories associated with these games, adding a heartfelt touch to their votes.
How Does it Work?
GOG has made it incredibly easy for gamers to participate in the Dreamlist. The interface has been overhauled to provide enhanced browsing and filtering options, making it simple to find and vote for games. The Dreamlist also features a “Staff Picks” section, where GOG highlights games that they believe deserve attention.
This not only helps guide the community but also showcases GOG’s dedication to bringing quality games to its platform.
The Dreamlist has already proven its worth. One notable success story is the revival of Dino Crisis 1 and 2, which were brought back to life thanks to the overwhelming community support on the Dreamlist. These games were remastered to ensure compatibility with modern systems, preserving their original content while enhancing their playability.
Looking ahead, GOG has ambitious plans for the Dreamlist. Games like Freelancer, Resident Evil Code: Veronica X, and the original Final Fantasy VII are among the titles that GOG and its community are eager to see revived. The Dreamlist is not just a wishlist; it’s a powerful tool for gamers to influence the gaming industry and ensure that their favorite titles are not forgotten.
In an industry where many classic games are no longer available, GOG’s Dreamlist is a beacon of hope for game preservation. According to GOG, 87% of games released prior to 2010 are no longer accessible, making the Dreamlist an essential initiative for keeping gaming history alive. By voting on the Dreamlist, gamers are not only expressing their preferences but also contributing to the preservation of gaming culture.
GOG invites all gamers to explore the Dreamlist, cast their votes, and share their memories. Whether it’s a childhood favorite or a game you’ve always wanted to play DRM-free, your vote matters. Together, we can ensure that these classic games find a new home on GOG and continue to be enjoyed by gamers around the world.
And from my part… I made some votes already and I want to highlight this one:
Hey, fellow muñaños gamers! I’m thrilled to share some fantastic news—I’m making a comeback to the gaming live streaming world on both Twitch and YouTube! I’m eager to reconnect with all of you after taking some time off due technical issues, offline work taking over before vacation and be as much as possible available to my family during the holidays/Christmas season.
As you may know, I’ve always strived to provide the best TRUE gaming content with no IRL unneeded/unhealthy drama and an engaging community experience. But unfortunately, while I was making progress in my first walkthrough with Resident Evil during last quarter of 2024, OBS stared acting up to the point that troubleshooting while streaming became a reason to feel early burnout and I decided to stop until I could deal with all the technical issues, which later I found out more Twitch to be at the majority of fault.
I am not a OBS detractor, but definitely my introduction to Meld Studio came with a link from Killswitch from RegimentGG and then Meld Studio’s Community manager iSageSen invited me to the BETA no question asked to try things and while things improved TREMENDOUSLY at YouTube side, Twitch for some reason kept acting up.
A little fast forward before needing to pause thing because to avoid a total burnout-rage-quit, I decided to wait for Meld Studio’s support on verifying my logs to check what was going on with Twitch and apparently, the acting up was coming from how Twitch network is interacting with my Internet connection and decided to go exclusively on YouTube which I did and I assumed this would be the thing after Christmas vacation, been streaming exclusively at the red platform.
But yes, Meld Studio asked me to give Twitch a chance to actually test some improvement and that’s why I’ve decided to give Twitch another shot, based on their glowing recommendation. Also, they recently rolled out some updates in the last quarter of 2024 along with the January 2025 update, incorporating feedback from yours truly and so much needed improvements in general.
So keep in mind that while Twitch will be a trial run, I’m optimistic about the potential for an enhanced streaming adventure on the purple platform.
🌟 Stream Schedule 🌟
BEFORE ANYTHING about my schedule, I want to clarify a few important points. While I am up for providing consistent and high-quality content, my primary focus remains on maintaining a healthy balance in my life. This means that my family’s needs will always come first, as that is non-negotiable. In addition, my offline work can sometimes extend beyond regular hours, though I will do my best to manage this and avoid overtime as much as possible.
Health is another crucial aspect. If I’m not feeling well, I won’t risk going live just to stick to a schedule. It’s essential for me to be in good health so that I can engage and interact with all of you in the best possible way. Your understanding and support in this regard mean the world to me.
With that being said… I am increasing to 2 more days instead of Monday and Thursdays and will go as follow:
Monday & Wednesday: Dive into our main walkthrough sessions starting at 8 PM GMT-4. These streams will feature in-depth gameplay, immersive storytelling, and lots of fun!
Tuesday: Get the latest scoop with our Gaming News content. This 2-hour stream kicks off at 5:30 PM GMT-4, where we’ll discuss the hottest updates, releases, and trends in the gaming world.
Thursday: Gear up for Multiplayer Nights starting at 8 PM GMT-4. Join me and the community for thrilling multiplayer matches and cooperative gameplay.
Except for Tuesdays, all streams will last a minimum of 2 hours, with a maximum duration of 3 to 3.5 hours. So, there’s plenty of time for epic adventures and interactions!
Now, if there are moments when I’m not able to start streaming punctually, it doesn’t mean that I won’t be going live at all. Please understand that unforeseen situations may arise despite my best efforts to avoid last-minute disruptions from offline life. I will do my best to ensure that any delays do not exceed 30 minutes. If I do need to forego a stream, I will provide updates through my social network channels.
About weekends…
I’m open to doing some collabs if the opportunity arises, but it will NOT be a focus and more importantly, I won’t be actively looking to stream on weekends, as Saturdays and Sundays are convenient for me to have the strong part of life balancing including spending time with my family, catch up on TV/Movies/Anime, and create some on-demand content.
Actually, I’ve tried occasional Saturday morning streams in my early years, but they didn’t yield the desired results. Much respect to those who can actually have great weekends, GG!
🎮 Gaming Lineup 🎮
What’s a return to streaming without an exciting lineup of games? Here’s what you can expect in the short-term:
Resident Evil: We’re finally going to wrap up this iconic game. I don’t like unfinished game despite the long time it took a game that can be finished in less than an hour for speedrunners and perfect players traying to nail high rank in less than 3 hours. Of course I have been having a blast as a Resident Evil/Biohazard fan that I am, but evidently, I need to circle my game backlog and go to a next game after the unfinished walkthrough, so definitely, a will do a New Game+ at a later time during the year.
Anima Flux: Next and in fulfillment of a promise to the developers (which actually motivated me on giving another chance content creation in general), we’ll dive into this intriguing game. I can’t wait to explore its unique mechanics and story further and yes; I will begin a brand-new game from start to finish.
Dynasty Warriors Origins: By the time you are reading this, I am probably done in my first run, but will gladly focus a new game for gaming live streaming purposes.
Indie Games: After Anima Flux and DWO, we’ll shift our focus with a indie game as I am currently evaluating some indie game invitations. There’s a treasure trove of hidden gems out there, and I’m excited to discover them with you.
In the long-term for 2025, I am foreseeing continuing my unfinished Black Myth: Wukong, Unicorn Overlord Walkthrough, revisit Destiny 1 and 2 with a new class (I am Hunter since day 1 and haven’t progressed my warlock at D1 and never tried Titan), Palworld, Overdungeon and in retro gaming scene with a probable back-seated The Elder Scrolls Arena and Daggerfall sessions, Fallout 1-2, Warcraft and Diablo GO games and try going as back as to play with some Playstation and Nintendo 64 games (no emulation).
Of course, this is a brainstorming, I can add andor switch games in this preliminary list, but all depends on the circumstances, but hey, I got an “new game” backlog building up since the later days of Playstation 3 so pretty much I got material for the long term.
Importantly, this journey is all about sharing my love for gaming with an amazing community. Your support and enthusiasm have always been my greatest motivators. Let’s make this comeback a memorable one filled with laughter, excitement, and epic gaming moments.
Remember both 🟣 https://twitch.tv/geezusgg & 🔴 https://www.youtube.com/@GeeZusGG
I can’t wait to see you all in the chat and embark on these new adventures together. Let’s get ready to game on! 🚀🎉
Returning with Anima Flux gaming streaming…
I’m excited to share some thrilling news! The developers of Anima Flux, a captivating co-op metroidvania game, have officially invited me to join their Steam Co-op event. This is a fantastic opportunity to dive into the dystopian world of Anima Flux, where two genetically enhanced soldiers fight through swarms of mutants to save humanity’s last stronghold in a desolate space city.
This invitation is truly special as it allows me have a more engagement opoprtunity and of course, the first time yours truly have the ooppportunity on goaing for a official stream event with Steam.
Anima Flux is a highly detailed game world and stunning hand-drawn animated cutscenes, Anima Flux promises to be an unforgettable adventure.
Join me and the Anima Flux community as we embark on this epic journey aboard ARK, humanity’s last bastion against extinction. Let’s fight to ensure the survival of human civilization together!
Some updates for my social networks interactions
Now that I am in the mood of extending this announcement/editorial, I want to address a topic which I find important.
GG to Bandai Namco as #Tekken8 has reached its first round to the sun. 🥋 🎂I guess that I should press hard as part of my gaming streaming content with rising Hwoarang's stats!#Gaming #VideoGames #YouTubeGaming 🕹 🎮
As you can see, I’ve restarted my efforts to post quick news updates across all my social media channels. This approach helps maintain engagement, and while some might view it as counterproductive to my freelance blogging efforts, the reality is different. A decade ago, this strategy might have seemed ill-advised, but today’s fast-paced internet culture favors quick, bite-sized news. This allows me to decide whether a piece of news deserves a full article or just a brief note.
Speaking of social networks, I mentioned a few months ago that I was probably done with X. I tried to be optimistic, hoping that the chaos of an election period might bring some sanity back, even with its erratic owner. Unfortunately, that hope didn’t pan out, and the lack of sanity is my biggest concern.
Therefore, I’m focusing my efforts on building my community on other platforms:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeeZusGG (While Mark Zuckerberg got looney too, I am confident that he is more adulterated than Elon Musk as long I am not going back to Instagram and not going to use Threads anytime soon.)
I understand that I might not succeed in fully transitioning away from X and might end up staying. Elon Musk took over an established platform, making it hard to build comparable numbers on other networks in a desired short-term. However, I’ll treat Bluesky as my primary social network and Mastodon as a secondary channel.
Side note: I’m curious about exploring Nostr further and am considering it as a third streaming channel through zap.stream. This might remain a “long-term idea” for now that I revisit one day in the future.
At the end of the day, what matters is building and maintaining a strong connection with you my audience that wants plan and simple, VIDEO GAMES!!!
On January 23, 2025, Xbox held its much-anticipated Developer Direct, revealing an impressive line-up of games and some splendid surprises. Here’s everything that was announced:
DOOM: The Dark Ages
Release Date: May 15, 2025 (NOT AN XBOX EXLUSIVE)
id Software took the stage to unveil DOOM: The Dark Ages, a prequel set in an intriguing dark fantasy and sci-fi world. Fans of the franchise can look forward to:
Combat: Incredible new weapons added to the Slayer’s arsenal to crush hellspawn.
Exploration: A dive into medieval-inspired settings, teeming with dark, sinister realms.
Story: An epic narrative revolving around the Slayer’s war against hell itself.
South of Midnight
Release Date: April 8, 2025
Compulsion Games showcased South of Midnight, a third-person action-adventure set in the myth-laden landscapes of the American Deep South. The game promises:
Folkloric Exploration: Immerse yourself in a world populated by creatures from Southern folklore.
Visually Magical World: Stunning graphics and a captivating narrative experience that explores rich, cultural tales.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Release Date: TBA
While no specific release date was mentioned, Sandfall Interactive provided a more in-depth glimpse into Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
Visual Spectacle: A beautifully crafted fantasy setting.
Gripping Story: An engaging narrative that fans of JRPGs will appreciate.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights: A look into the creative process and the art behind the game.
Ninja Gaiden 4
Release Date: Fall 2025 (NOT AN XBOX EXCLUSIVE)
A thrilling surprise, Ninja Gaiden 4 was announced as a collaboration between Team Ninja and PlatinumGames. Set in a dystopian Tokyo, the game introduces:
New Protagonist: Join Yakumo, a member of the Raven Clan, navigating Tokyo’s neon-lit streets.
Classic Action: Fast-paced combat familiar to fans, with deep roots in the Ninja Gaiden legacy.
Ryu Hayabusa: The original protagonist will play a pivotal role in the unfolding saga.
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black – Remastered
Available Now
In a delightful twist, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is now available as a remastered definitive edition.
Unreal Engine 5: Enhanced visuals and performance.
Immediate Access: Available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Game Pass from today.
Xbox Play Anywhere and Game Pass Integration
All titles announced support Xbox Play Anywhere, allowing players to switch between Xbox and Windows devices with seamless progress. Plus, all the games from this event will be available on Xbox Game Pass from Day One, with cloud gaming support.
The video game industry experienced a turbulent year in 2024, witnessing a significant decline in hardware sales. According to data from Circana, video game hardware sales in the U.S. dropped by 29% compared to the previous year. This blog post delves into the intricate details of this decline, examining the factors that contributed to this downward trend and what it might mean for the future of the gaming industry.
December 2024 U.S. Video Game Market Highlights from Circana – December 2024 projected U.S. consumer spending on video game hardware, content and accessories declined 8.9% when compared to a year ago, to $7.5B. Spending during the 2024 year fell 1.1% compared to 2023, to $58.7B.
In 2024, video game hardware sales fell from $1.55 billion in 2023 to $1.11 billion, marking a steep 29% decrease. Several factors contributed to this decline, most notably the lifecycle stage of current gaming consoles and consumer anticipation for upcoming innovations.
The Impact of PlayStation 5 Pro
November 2024 brought a glimmer of hope with the release of the PlayStation 5 (PS5) Pro. This release temporarily boosted hardware sales; however, the surge was short-lived. By December, hardware sales had plummeted again, reflecting a 25% year-over-year decrease. The initial excitement around the PS5 Pro was not enough to sustain sales momentum through the holiday season.
Platform-Specific Sales Trends
Each major gaming console experienced its own unique challenges and declines in 2024:
Nintendo Switch: As the Nintendo Switch approached the end of its lifecycle, its sales dropped by a staggering 38% in December 2024. The console, which enjoyed immense popularity since its release, now faced the inevitable slowdown as consumers anticipated a new generation of Nintendo consoles.
Xbox Series Consoles: Microsoft’s Xbox Series consoles also faced a significant decline, with a 38% decrease in year-over-year sales for December 2024. Despite price cuts and holiday promotions, the platform could not escape the overall downturn in the market.
PlayStation 5: The regular PS5 saw an 18% drop in sales year-over-year. Even though the PS5 Pro’s release provided a temporary boost, it was not enough to offset the decline in sales of the standard model.
The Best-Selling Console of 2024
Despite the overall decline in hardware sales, the PlayStation 5 emerged as the best-selling console for 2024 in terms of both hardware spending and unit sales. Sony’s efforts to revitalize its offering with the PS5 Pro contributed to this achievement, albeit the gains were not as substantial as hoped.
Accessory Sales Remain Steady
While hardware sales took a hit, accessory sales remained robust. Accessory sales in December 2024 mirrored those of the previous year, showing no significant year-over-year change. Overall, accessory sales in 2024 saw a 6% increase compared to 2023. The PlayStation Portal topped the charts as the best-selling accessory, while the DualSense Midnight Black controller recorded the highest unit sales.
Total Revenue Overview
December 2024’s total revenue for video game hardware and accessories was $4.85 billion, significantly lower than December 2023’s $6.45 billion. This drop further highlights the extensive impact of the decline in hardware sales on the gaming market.
The Insider Gaming article encourages readers to discuss these findings in their forums, providing a platform for gamers, analysts, and industry insiders to share their perspectives and insights. The discussions could offer a deeper understanding of the market dynamics and factors influencing these trends.
The steep decline in video game hardware sales in 2024 signifies a notable shift in the market. This trend may be driven by the lifecycle of current consoles, consumer fatigue, and anticipation for future technologies. Console manufacturers will likely need to adjust their strategies, possibly accelerating the development and release of next-generation systems to rekindle consumer interest and drive future sales.
The decline in video game hardware sales in 2024 poses significant challenges but also opens up opportunities for innovation and growth in the gaming industry. As we move forward, it will be crucial for manufacturers and developers to understand and adapt to these evolving market dynamics, ensuring that they stay ahead of consumer trends and technological advancements.
Activision has officially revealed the highly anticipated updates for Season 2 of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Warzone, set to launch on January 28, 2025. This season promises to bring a host of new content, gameplay improvements, and significant anti-cheat updates to enhance the overall player experience.
I guess it is fair to say that the long blog post needed to be filtered in a more summarized and understandable list and here goes:
Key Updates for Season 2
Console-Only Crossplay for Ranked Play: Responding to community feedback, Activision will enable the ability to disable cross-play for consoles in Ranked Play modes. This aims to reduce cheating and provide a fairer competitive environment.
New Zombies Content: Season 2 will introduce a brand-new Zombies map, along with new weapons, modes, and other exciting content to refresh the Zombies experience.
Anti-Cheat Enhancements: The Ricochet Anti-Cheat team has been hard at work, implementing new detection models and server updates to combat aim-botting and other cheating behaviors. Over 136,000 Ranked Play account bans have already been issued since the modes launched.
Server Improvements: Activision has addressed server issues, including rubber-banding, packet loss, and server disconnects, especially in Ranked Play and certain regions. New improvements have been made to Call of Duty’s server infrastructure to reduce malicious activities and enhance stability.
Samurai Theme: The leaked key art for Season 2 hints at a Samurai theme, featuring a character holding a tanto (a short Japanese blade) and dressed in traditional Samurai attire. This theme is expected to bring a fresh and immersive experience to the game.
Charity Support: Activision has donated $1 million to LA wildfire relief efforts and released a new cosmetic bundle in the in-game store, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting charities connected to wildfire relief.
Release Details
Season 2 will go live on January 28, 2025, at 10 AM PT, across PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, PC (Steam and Battle.net), and Xbox Series X/S. Players will need to download update files for the Call of Duty app to access the latest content additions and enhancements.
About Ranked Mode in both Black Ops 6 & Warzone
Also, Activision said it was disabling crossplay between consoles and PC in Ranked Mode for both Call Of Duty Black Ops 6 and Warzone in response to player feedback and in the spirit of improving the gameplay experience.
We’ve heard the feedback from players about wanting the choice to toggle cross-play in Ranked Play since its launch earlier this season, and in the spirit of improving the gameplay experience, we’re returning to the way we’ve traditionally handled cross-play. In Season 02, we are enabling the ability to disable cross-play for console players who want to compete only against other console players.
This is currently in testing and is planned to go live for both Black Ops 6 Ranked Play and Warzone Ranked Play during S02. We’ll be monitoring closely and will consider further changes to prioritize the integrity of the ecosystem, and we’ll have more details to share as we get closer to the launch of this feature.
The Vote to Forfeit feature is coming at Season 02 launch, which allows players to vote with their team to end a match early if the team is getting blown out, or you’ve lost a teammate. Forfeited matches count as a standard loss and do not result in SR penalties or suspensions.
The ability to rejoin Ranked Play matches is also planned for later in Season 02, which should help to ensure fuller teams in matches if players experience a disconnect.
The year 2025 beckons with the promise of extraordinary gaming experiences, a year poised to redefine interactive entertainment with video games. From long-awaited sequels that reignite cherished franchises to ambitious new IPs pushing the boundaries of creativity, this year promises to be a landmark period for gamers worldwide. The anticipation is palpable, a collective breath held in eager expectation as developers unveil their masterpieces and players prepare to embark on unforgettable journeys.
The landscape of video games releases at 2025 is already shaping up to be a vibrant tapestry of diverse gaming experiences. Confirmed releases offer a tantalizing glimpse into the year’s potential.
Confirmed Releases:
The year will undoubtedly kick off with a bang, as several highly anticipated titles are confirmed to grace our consoles.
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, slated for a March 2025 release, transports players to the captivating backdrop of 16th-century Japan. This installment in the beloved franchise promises a thrilling blend of stealth, action, and historical intrigue, immersing players in a period of profound social and political upheaval. Players will embody a skilled assassin navigating the intricate web of Japanese society, experiencing the beauty and danger of this era firsthand.
Monster Hunter Wilds, scheduled for a Q3 2025 release, marks a significant evolution for Capcom’s iconic hunting series. By introducing a vast open world, the developers aim to enhance the sense of exploration and freedom, allowing players to traverse breathtaking landscapes while encountering and conquering a diverse array of formidable monsters. This shift promises to redefine the core gameplay experience, offering a greater sense of agency and immersion.
South of Midnight, anticipated for a Q4 2025 release, is a narrative-driven adventure game that promises a unique and haunting experience. With a focus on a captivating Southern Gothic atmosphere, this title aims to deliver a deeply immersive and emotionally resonant story that will stay with players long after the credits roll.
Rumored Releases (High Probability):
While not yet officially confirmed, several highly anticipated titles are rumored to grace 2025 with their presence.
Grand Theft Auto VI, the long-awaited successor to one of the most influential video game franchises of all time, continues to be shrouded in secrecy. However, persistent rumors suggest a late 2025 release window, fueling immense speculation and excitement among fans.
Starfield(next expansion), Bethesda’s ambitious space RPG’s next expansion, is expected to launch late this year, assuming Bethesda’s clarification that the first expansion, Shattered Space, was made with new assets and not recycling the game’s original assets and expect the same thing for the next expansion. While it was not confirmed officially, it is rumored that the next expansion will comply on offering players the opportunity to explore a vast and awe-inspiring galaxy. With countless quests to undertake and a deep character customization system, Starfield promises to be a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
The Elder Scrolls VI, though still in the early stages of development, has already captured the imagination of countless gamers. While a release date remains elusive, the mere possibility of a new Elder Scrolls adventure is enough to generate immense excitement and anticipation within the gaming community.
Doubtful Releases (But Still Possible):
Several highly anticipated titles face uncertain release timelines, leaving their 2025 fate shrouded in doubt:
Hollow Knight: Silksong, the long-awaited sequel to the critically acclaimed Metroidvania, has been in development for an extended period. While fans eagerly anticipate its release, the developers have remained tight-lipped regarding a definitive launch date, leaving the possibility of a 2025 release uncertain.
Perfect Dark (remake): Despite a Rare original game, back in 2020 it was confirmed that the other Xbox Game Studios, The Initiative was co-developing a Perfect Dark remake along with Embracer Groups’s Crystal Dynamics. Reportedly since then, Perfect Dark reboot development has faced significant hurdles and after being a The Initiative’s original involvement, Crystal Dynamics was brought into co-develop the game. Since no more details has surfaced and maybe people are in the expectations for some 2025, but I highly doubt a 2025 release.
Wild Cards:
The gaming industry is renowned for its unpredictable nature. Throughout the year, we can anticipate unannounced titles making their debut, potentially shifting the landscape of anticipated releases and surprising even the most seasoned of gamers.
Pretty much, the norm is that gaming studios and independent developers often unveil entirely new game concepts and franchises throughout the year. These surprise announcements can generate immense excitement and shift the focus of anticipation within the gaming community.
Along with the classic franchises can be revived through reboots and remasters, offering fresh perspectives on beloved games and introducing them to new audiences. These unexpected announcements can reignite nostalgia and generate significant buzz.
As challenging as the past year has been, for the gaming industry as much unfortunate, gaming acquisitions and mergers within the gaming industry can have a profound impact on the competitive landscape and the types of games being developed and honestly there is a chance that we might hear some news regarding of this aspect of the industry and hopefully, it can be converted as job cuts avoidance, but recent acquisitions proved that it is not necessarily avoid job cuts due redundance or instant duplicate workplaces due mergers.
Finally, and also an unfortunate thing to say it is unavoidable are unexpected challenges faced by development studios, such as unforeseen technical difficulties or internal issues, can lead to delays or even the cancellation of highly anticipated projects.
These “Wild Cards” add an element of unpredictability and excitement to the 2025 video game release landscape. They highlight the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the industry, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.
A Note of Caution:
It is crucial to remember that release dates are subject to change, and development cycles can be unpredictable. Unforeseen circumstances can lead to delays, and even the most promising titles may face unforeseen challenges. Therefore, it is essential to manage expectations and approach these anticipated releases with a degree of flexibility.
As we are already at first half of the first month of 2025, I think is time to bring up the notion that the gaming industry is poised for a transformative year filled with groundbreaking advancements and exciting trends. From cloud gaming to virtual reality, mobile gaming to artificial intelligence, the landscape of gaming is evolving rapidly, promising gamers an unparalleled experience.
Let’s delve deeper into each aspect with supporting data and trends that highlight this evolution.
1. Rise of Cloud Gaming
Cloud gaming is expected to revolutionize the way we play games by eliminating the need for high-end hardware. According to a report by Newzoo, the cloud gaming market was valued at approximately $1.6 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow to $6.5 billion by 2025. This growth is driven by the widespread adoption of 5G technology, which provides the necessary bandwidth and low latency required for a seamless gaming experience.
Services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW, and Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Cloud (formerly Project xCloud) are at the forefront, offering expansive libraries of titles that can be streamed to various devices including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. This accessibility is democratizing gaming, making it more inclusive for a broader audience.
…And yes, in an alternate universe, Google Stadia leaded this segment of the gaming industry as even after its demise, its tech stack remains unmatched and DO NOT CHANGE MY MIND!
2. More Immersive Virtual Reality
Honestly, I am not into Virtual reality (VR) but of course, I will not ignore that this segment of the gaming industry continues to push the boundaries of immersive gaming.
The global VR gaming market was valued at $11.56 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach $92.31 billion by 2027, according to Grand View Research. This exponential growth is fueled by advancements in VR headsets such as the Oculus Quest 2 and the PlayStation VR2, which offer enhanced graphics, more intuitive controls, and improved comfort. Developers are leveraging these advancements to create rich, interactive stories and social experiences that allow players to explore virtual worlds together.
Titles like “Half-Life: Alyx” and “Star Wars: Squadrons” showcase the potential of VR to deliver deeply engaging narratives and gameplay. As VR technology continues to evolve, we can anticipate even more innovative and immersive experiences.
3. On the Rise: Mobile Gaming
Despite my admittedly original dislike on how he mobile gaming gained momentary a front seat ahead of console and PC gaming in the previous decade and how embarrasing its was “the leadership” (thanks for nothing people like Konami), but data suggest that the sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by the increasing power of smartphones and the release of high-quality titles.
According to a report by App Annie, mobile gaming revenue reached $98 billion in 2021, surpassing both console and PC gaming.
In 2025, this trend is expected to continue with the release of games like the BETA of “Destiny Rising ” and “Need for Speed Mobile,” which offer console-quality experiences on handheld devices. The convenience of playing games on the go, combined with the accessibility of smartphones, ensures that mobile gaming remains a dominant force in the industry.
4. Integration of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is in indeed a “11 bullet shirt” of a topic depending on who you are talking about it, but it indeed transforming the gaming landscape by enhancing gameplay mechanics and creating more dynamic environments.
AI-driven non-playable characters (NPCs) are becoming more sophisticated, capable of reacting to player actions in real-time and providing more realistic interactions. According to a study by PwC, the AI market in gaming is projected to grow from $3 billion in 2020 to $87 billion by 2025.
This growth is driven by the demand for personalized gaming experiences, where AI tailors challenges and content to individual players’ preferences and skill levels. Games like “Red Dead Redemption 2” and “The Last of Us Part II” demonstrate the potential of AI to create immersive and engaging worlds.
5. Esports Expansions
In my blog, I will try to covert a little bit more of Esports as a FGC competitor myself and while some view that the 2010’s explosive growth reached its peak, some view that a ressurgance is being observed, taking in account on millions of viewers and participants worldwide.
The global esports market was valued at $1.1 billion in 2021 despite the break that the recent pandemic of 2020 brought, and is projected to reach $1.9 billion by 2025, according to a report by Newzoo.
This growth is fueled by the increasing popularity of competitive gaming and the rise of mobile and cloud gaming platforms, which provide greater accessibility for players. Major tournaments, leagues, and sponsorships are emerging, contributing to the expansion of the esports ecosystem. Esports is not just a form of entertainment; it’s a cultural movement that brings people together from all corners of the globe.
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As we look ahead to 2025, the gaming industry is on the brink of a new era of innovation and immersion. With advancements in cloud gaming, virtual reality, mobile gaming, artificial intelligence, and esports, gamers can expect an exciting and dynamic year ahead. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore gamer, there’s never been a better time to be part of the gaming community.
Nintendo has officially unveiled its highly-anticipated successor to the Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch in 2025. The announcement came with a first-look trailer that showcased the new console’s design and features.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Nintendo Switch 2.
As per the first-look presentation, the Nintendo Switch 2 features a larger display compared to the original Switch, providing an enhanced gaming experience. The Joy-Con controllers have been redesigned to attach magnetically to the console, making them more secure and easier to use. Additionally, the Joy-Con now includes an optical sensor, adding new possibilities for gameplay.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Nintendo Switch 2 is its backward compatibility as Nintendo already confirmed late last year 2024. The console will support both Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games and existing Nintendo Switch games.
However, it’s important to note that some older games may not be fully compatible with the new system.
Nintendo has scheduled a Nintendo Direct showcase for April 2, 2025, where more details about the console and its release date will be shared. To give fans a hands-on experience, Nintendo will host experience events in various cities around the world, starting in April 2025. These events will be held in cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, Tokyo, and more.
What We Don’t Know Yet
While the announcement provided a lot of exciting information, there are still some details that remain unknown. Nintendo has not yet revealed the price of the Switch 2 or the full software launch lineup. Fans will have to wait for the Nintendo Direct and experience events for more information.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be an exciting upgrade to the beloved Switch console. With its larger screen, redesigned Joy-Con controllers, and backward compatibility, it’s sure to be a hit among gamers. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the release date!
While the pressure is on for what’s next for Ubisoft after being challenged in all fronts, including gamers, shareholders and analyst, its management including Yves Guillemot, knows that the gaming world is not oblivious of any of the current situations an possible outcomes.
But things could be escalating as Ubisoft announced that a second delay for its highly-anticipated game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, was unavoidable.
Originally set to release on February 14, 2025, the game’s release date has now been pushed to March 20, 20252. This is the second delay for the game, which was initially scheduled to launch in November 2024.
Ubisoft stated that the delay is to allow developers more time to polish the game and incorporate player feedback. The company has been continually checking player feedback from the community and making changes accordingly. The additional time will help create the best conditions for launch by continuing to engage closely with the Assassin’s Creed community.
Ubisoft’s decision to delay the game is also seen as a strategic move to ensure that Assassin’s Creed Shadows becomes a bona-fide hit, potentially attracting more buyers if the company decides to sell.
The game is described as “the biggest entry in the franchise” and is expected to set a new standard for the series.
In the background, this is Ubisoft gaining some time
Before the delay announcement, Ubisoft issued a press release where CEO Yves Guillemot confirmed that the company has hired top international management consulting firms to explore strategic and capital options for the company’s future.
This move is part of a broader restructuring effort aimed at unlocking greater value for Ubisoft’s assets and franchises.
We made good progress on the strategic and execution reviews initiated a few months ago and are confident that this will position Ubisoft for a stronger future. We have taken decisive steps to reshape the Group in order to deliver best-in-class player experiences, enhance operational efficiency and maximize value creation. We also recently appointed leading advisors and are actively exploring various strategic and capitalistic options to unlock the full value potential of our assets. We are convinced that there are several potential paths to generate value from Ubisoft’s assets and franchises.
Additionally, we are all behind our teams’ efforts to create the most ambitious Assassin’s Creed opus of the franchise and made the decision to provide an extra month of development to Shadows in order to better incorporate the player feedback gathered over the past three months that will enable us to fully deliver on the potential of the game and finish the year on a strong note.
Guillemot emphasized that the goal is to pursue various transformational strategic and capitalistic options to extract the best value for stakeholders.
The decision to hire consultants comes amid rumors of a potential sale of the company and it is a normal move when higher ups are unsure what to do next and/or cannot foresee if a new idea will actually be a success or not and how to prepare for either scenarios.
Reportedly, Ubisoft has been in discussions with several potential buyers, including Chinese giant Tencent, which is already a major shareholder. The company is also looking to drive significant cost reductions and adopt a highly selective approach to investments.
