Category Archives: Games

Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

Twisted Metal was planned for a reboot, but never came to fruition

In the world of gaming, few franchises have managed to carve out a niche as unique and enduring as Twisted Metal. Known for its chaotic vehicular combat and memorable characters, the series has been a staple of PlayStation’s lineup since its debut in 1995.

However, fans of the franchise were recently hit with a wave of nostalgia and disappointment as details emerged about a cancelled Twisted Metal game that was in development for the PlayStation 5.

The cancelled Twisted Metal game, internally known as “Project Copper,” was being developed by Firesprite, the studio behind Horizon: Call of the Mountain. While PlayStation never officially confirmed the existence of this project, reports of Firesprite’s involvement began circulating online in 2022.

The game was reportedly cancelled last year, but new details have surfaced thanks to Hugo Silva, a lead UI programmer who was working on the project.

According to Silva, Project Copper was envisioned as a “3rd person vehicular action combat game” based on a classic IP owned by PlayStation. The game was set to introduce a significant shift in gameplay mechanics, incorporating third-person shooter elements alongside the traditional vehicular combat. The objective was to be the last one standing, effectively turning Twisted Metal into a battle royale game.

The Battle Royale Concept

The battle royale genre has seen immense popularity in recent years, with games like Fortnite and Apex Legends dominating the market. Firesprite and PlayStation aimed to capitalize on this trend by reimagining Twisted Metal as a battle royale game. Early images from Silva’s website, though labeled “under NDA,” highlight the battle royale concept, featuring generic characters engaged in third-person shooter combat. These placeholder designs would have likely been replaced by classic characters from the series or custom-designed protagonists.

The last new Twisted Metal game was released on the PlayStation 3 back in 2012, making it over a decade since fans have had a new entry in the series. The cancellation of Project Copper is undoubtedly frustrating for fans, especially considering the success of the Twisted Metal streaming series on Peacock. The absence of a new game to accompany the show’s popularity seems like a missed opportunity for PlayStation.

However, it’s possible that the decision to cancel the game was for the best. From the details revealed so far, Project Copper might not have delivered what fans have come to expect from the series. If the game had been released and failed, it could have potentially doomed the franchise for another decade or more.

The Future of Twisted Metal

Despite the cancellation of Project Copper, there is still hope for the future of Twisted Metal. PlayStation co-CEO Herman Hurst hinted back in December that the company is looking for ways to leverage its past IPs, offering a glimmer of hope that dormant franchises like Twisted Metal could make a return. Fans will have to wait and see if a new game finally materializes, but for now, the cancellation of Project Copper remains a tantalizing “what if” in the history of Twisted Metal.

In conclusion, the revelation of the cancelled Twisted Metal game has left fans with mixed emotions. While the concept of a battle royale Twisted Metal game is intriguing, it’s uncertain whether it would have lived up to the legacy of the franchise. As we look to the future, we can only hope that PlayStation finds a way to bring Twisted Metal back to its former glory.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Games, Gaming, News

LEGO classics and F.E.A.R. joins the GOG Preservation Program

In the ever-evolving world of video games, preserving the classics is a mission that resonates deeply with gamers and historians alike. The GOG Preservation Program, launched in November 2024, is a testament to this commitment. This initiative ensures that iconic games remain playable on modern systems, even after their developers have ceased support. Let’s dive into the latest additions to this program and explore the backstory of this noble endeavor.

Latest Additions: LEGO Games and F.E.A.R.

The GOG Preservation Program recently welcomed a slew of classic LEGO games and the horror shooter F.E.A.R. into its fold. These additions are not just about nostalgia; they are about ensuring that these beloved titles remain accessible and enjoyable for future generations.

LEGO Games: GOG has added 11 classic LEGO games to its Preservation Program. This includes fan favorites like LEGO Batman: The Video Game, LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures, and LEGO Pirates of the Caribbean: The Video Game. These games have been updated to ensure compatibility with modern PCs, running at a default 1080p resolution with V-Sync enabled and a locked 60Hz frame rate.

F.E.A.R.: In a move to honor the contributions of the now-shuttered developer Monolith Productions, GOG has added F.E.A.R. Platinum to its Preservation Program ahead of schedule. This collection includes the base game and its expansions, ensuring that the legacy of Monolith’s work lives on.

The GOG Preservation Program is more than just a collection of old games; it’s a commitment to preserving gaming history. The idea was born out of a recognition that many classic games were becoming unplayable due to technological advancements and the discontinuation of support from developers.

The GOG Preservation Program aims to ensure that classic games remain playable on modern and future systems. This involves updating games to be compatible with current operating systems, fixing bugs, and sometimes even enhancing the graphics and gameplay. The program also includes dedicated tech support and offline installers, ensuring that players can enjoy these classics without any hassle.

Community Involvement

GOG actively involves the gaming community in its preservation efforts. Players can vote for their favorite classic games to be added to the program, ensuring that the most beloved titles are preserved. This community-driven approach helps GOG prioritize which games to update and maintain.

The GOG Preservation Program is a beacon of hope for gamers who cherish the classics. By ensuring that these games remain accessible and playable, GOG is preserving a vital part of gaming history. Whether you’re a fan of LEGO adventures or the spine-chilling thrills of F.E.A.R., the GOG Preservation Program has something for everyone. So, let’s celebrate these timeless classics and the efforts to keep them alive for generations to come.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

Surprising Command & Conquer move by Electronic Arts

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

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

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

The Road to Open Source

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

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

What This Means for the Community

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

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

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

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

Featured, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Pokémon Present 2025: The 25th year of 21st century will be another big year for Pokémon

February 27, 2025, marked another exciting Pokémon Day, and The Pokémon Company did not disappoint with their latest Pokémon Presents showcase. Here’s a detailed look at all the announcements made during the event:

Pokémon Concierge

The Pokémon Company kicked off the event by announcing new episodes of the charming stop-motion animation series, Pokémon Concierge. These episodes are set to air on Netflix in September 2025. As a special treat, the first four episodes of the show are available for free on YouTube until March 9th.

Pokémon Go Tour

The next Pokémon Go Tour is happening this weekend, featuring Black Kyurem and White Kyurem in Raid Battles. Players will also have the chance to catch Victini and a shiny Meloetta.

Mobile Game Updates

Three mobile-focused Pokémon titles received updates:

  • Pokémon Masters EX: Champion May and her shiny Primal Kyogre, as well as Champion Brendan and his shiny Primal Groudon, will be making an appearance.
  • Pokémon Café ReMix: A new apple-themed menu item along with appearances from Flapple and Appletun.
  • Pokémon Sleep: A new Cresselia versus Darkrai event is coming in March 2025.

Pokémon Unite

Three new fighters were revealed for Pokémon Unite:

  • Suicune: Coming to the game on March 1st.
  • Alolan Raichu: Arriving in April.
  • Alcremie: Joining later in the year.

Pokémon TCG Pocket

The next major expansion set for Pokémon TCG Pocket, titled Triumphant Light, was announced. This set is themed around the deific Pokémon Arceus and includes new Eevee, Magnemite, and Golbat variations, as well as a shiny Raichu. The set launches tomorrow, February 28, 2025.

Mega Evolved Pokémon in TCG

Mega Evolved Pokémon are making a comeback in Pokémon TCG this year. The trailer showcased ex cards for Mega Lucario and Mega Gardevoir, though the release date for this feature was not revealed.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Players of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet can grab a special Rotom Phone cover for each game by inputting the codes SB00KC0VER for Scarlet and VB00KC0VER for Violet (those are zeroes, not Os). New Tera Raid Battles for Meowscarada, Skeledirge, and Quaquaval are also coming on February 28th, March 7th, and March 14th, respectively.

Pokémon Champions

A new game called Pokémon Champions was announced. This Pokémon Stadium-style game focuses on battling and will connect to Pokémon Home, allowing players to use Pokémon from their games to battle trainers worldwide. The game will be available on Nintendo Switch and mobile devices.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A

The event concluded with new information about Pokémon Legends: Z-A. The game is set in a futuristic Lumiose City, located in the Kalos region, and features Mega Evolutions. Players will start their journey from an old hotel and explore wild zones where humans and Pokémon coexist. The game is set to release in late 2025 exclusively on Nintendo Switch.

Pokémon Day 2025 was packed with exciting announcements, promising a thrilling year ahead for Pokémon fans. Whether you’re into mobile games, trading cards, or console adventures, there’s something for everyone to look forward to.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

Terminator 2D: NO FATE: A Retro Revival

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

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

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

The initial characters that are officially at the game includes:

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

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

Preorder Details

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

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

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.

Games, Gaming, News

Gaming world react to WB Games holding an interesting patent despite Monolith Productions closure

The recent closure of Monolith Productions, along with Player First Games and Warner Bros. Games San Diego, has sent shockwaves through the gaming community. Monolith Productions, known for its critically acclaimed titles like F.E.A.R. and Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, was a beloved studio with a storied history.

The decision to shutter these studios was part of a strategic shift by Warner Bros. Games to focus on their key franchises, including Harry Potter, Mortal Kombat, DC, and Game of Thrones.

One of the most significant aspects of this closure is the fate of the Nemesis System, a groundbreaking gameplay mechanic introduced in Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor. The Nemesis System allowed NPCs to remember their interactions with the player, creating dynamic and personalized gameplay experiences. This system was patented by Warner Bros. Games, ensuring that no other developer could replicate it without permission.

Despite the closure of Monolith Productions, Warner Bros. Games retains the patent for the Nemesis System until 2036. This decision has sparked a range of reactions within the gaming community. On one hand, there is frustration and disappointment that such an innovative system may not be utilized to its full potential. The cancellation of the Wonder Woman game, which was reportedly going to incorporate the Nemesis System, only adds to this sentiment.

On the other hand, some see the retention of the patent as a strategic move by Warner Bros. Games. By keeping the patent, they maintain control over a unique and valuable gameplay mechanic that could be used in future titles. This could potentially give them a competitive edge in the industry, especially as they focus on their core franchises.

The closure of Monolith Productions and the retention of the Nemesis System patent highlight the challenges and complexities of the gaming industry. As studios navigate financial pressures and shifting market trends, decisions like these can have far-reaching implications for developers and players alike. While the future of the Nemesis System remains uncertain, its legacy as a pioneering gameplay innovation is undeniable.

In the end, the gaming community can only hope that Warner Bros. Games will find a way to honor the legacy of Monolith Productions and the Nemesis System in their future projects. Whether through new titles or by licensing the system to other developers, there is potential for this innovative mechanic to continue shaping the gaming landscape for years to come.

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.

Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Microsft CEO confirms that Xbox Muse is scheduled with a training based on a catalog of games

In a groundbreaking move, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has revealed that the company plans to train its new AI system, Muse, on a catalog of video games. This announcement was made during an interview on the Dwarkesh Patel Podcast, where Nadella expressed his excitement about the potential of this technology to revolutionize the gaming industry.

Muse is a generative AI model designed to assist with game ideation, development, and preservation. Unlike traditional AI models, Muse can generate gameplay footage based on user input, creating a dynamic and interactive experience. Nadella described seeing Muse in action as a “massive, massive moment of ‘wow’,” comparing it to the first time he saw other generative AI models like ChatGPT and DALL-E.

Muse has been trained on years of gameplay footage from Ninja Theory’s arena shooter, Bleeding Edge. By ingesting this extensive archive, Muse can generate new gameplay footage and adapt it based on specific prompts from users. For example, if a user suggests adding a jump pad to a level, Muse can generate gameplay footage that incorporates this change.

Nadella emphasized that Muse is not yet capable of coding its own games or creating entirely new concepts. Instead, it serves as a tool to speed up the development process by providing generated gameplay footage. This capability could be particularly useful for game developers looking to quickly prototype and iterate on new ideas.

Potential Impact on the Gaming Industry

The introduction of Muse has sparked a range of reactions within the gaming community. Some experts, like gaming AI specialist Michael Cook, have praised the technology’s ability to handle complex visual information, such as lighting and camera angles. However, others remain skeptical about its practical applications.

Nadella also highlighted the potential for Muse to assist with game preservation, ensuring that classic titles remain accessible and playable for future generations. This aspect of Muse could be a game-changer for the industry, providing a new way to maintain and celebrate gaming history.

Microsoft’s decision to train its new AI on a catalog of games marks a significant step forward in the integration of AI technology within the gaming industry. While there are still many questions about how Muse will be used and its long-term impact, the excitement and potential surrounding this innovation are undeniable. As Nadella put it, this is just the beginning of what could be a transformative journey for both game developers and players alike.