Category Archives: Games

Business, Games, Gaming, News

Nihon Falcom will keep going despite Q1 2025 could have been better

Nihon Falcom recently released their first-quarter earnings for 2025. The company reported a significant decline in revenue, which was JP¥374.0 million (approximately $2.47 million), a 46% decrease compared to the same quarter in 2024. The earnings per share (EPS) also saw a drop to JP¥7.88 (approximately $0.05), compared to JP¥29.09 (approximately $0.19) in Q1 2024.

Focus on Games Highlights

Nihon Falcom has been a pioneer in the JRPG genre, with notable series like Ys, Dragon Slayer, and The Legend of Heroes. Here are some highlights of their recent focus on games:

  1. Ys Series: The Ys series continues to be a flagship franchise for Nihon Falcom, with recent titles like Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana and Ys IX: Monstrum Nox receiving critical acclaim. These games have been well-received for their engaging storylines and polished gameplay, contributing significantly to the company’s product sales.
  2. The Legend of Heroes: This series has expanded significantly, with titles like Trails of Cold Steel IV and Trails into Reverie gaining popularity among fans. The latest entry, The Legend of Heroes: Kai no Kiseki, has sold over 8 million copies across various platforms, boosting the company’s product sales.
  3. Multi-Platform Releases: Nihon Falcom has been focusing on releasing their games across multiple platforms, including PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and PC, to reach a broader audience. This strategy has helped increase their market presence and attract new players.
  4. Western Localization: The company has put greater emphasis on English translations and releases of their games, making them accessible to Western audiences. This effort has paid off, as Western fans have shown strong interest in Nihon Falcom’s titles, contributing to their global reach.

Despite the recent dip in earnings, Nihon Falcom’s dedication to innovation and quality has solidified their reputation as a leading developer in the JRPG genre. Their upcoming releases, including Ys X and a new installment in the Trails series, are expected to further boost their performance in the coming quarters.

Editorial, Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

A perfect moment to remember the 2011 Playstation Network crisis

The PlayStation Network (PSN) hacking incident of 2011 remains one of the most significant cybersecurity breaches in gaming history. This event not only disrupted services for millions of users but also exposed the vulnerabilities inherent in even the most robust digital infrastructures.

As we reflect on this infamous incident, it’s crucial to understand its lasting effects and how it correlates with the recent PSN outage on February 8, 2025.

The 2011 PlayStation Network Hack: A Timeline of Chaos

The hacking incident began in April 2011 when an “external intrusion” compromised the personal details of approximately 77 million PSN accounts. The breach exposed sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, email addresses, physical addresses, and even credit card details. The attack lasted for 23 days, during which Sony had to take the PSN offline to rebuild its security infrastructure.

The aftermath saw Sony offering compensation to affected users and facing scrutiny from government officials worldwide.

The immediate impact of the hack was a massive disruption of services. Users were unable to access their accounts, purchase games, or engage in online multiplayer activities. The breach also led to a significant loss of trust in Sony’s ability to protect user data, resulting in a tarnished brand image. Financially, the incident cost Sony an estimated $171 million, including compensation payouts and the expenses associated with enhancing security measures.

In the long term, the hack prompted a reevaluation of cybersecurity practices within the gaming industry. Sony implemented stricter security protocols, including the encryption of credit card information and the introduction of two-factor authentication for account logins. These measures have since become standard practices across the industry, highlighting the importance of robust cybersecurity in protecting user data.

The February 8, 2025 PSN Outage: Echoes of the Past

Fast forward to February 8, 2025, and the PSN experienced another significant outage. This recent disruption, which lasted nearly 20 hours, saw users unable to access the PlayStation Store, PlayStation Plus, and multiplayer games. The timing of the outage, coinciding with a promotional weekend for a popular game, only added to the frustration of millions of gamers.

While Sony has yet to confirm the cause of the outage, many users and experts speculate that it could be the result of another cyberattack. The parallels between the 2011 hack and the recent outage are striking, with both incidents resulting in prolonged service disruptions and raising concerns about the security of user data.

And labeling as “operational issue” and the implicit attempt that this incident will quiet down with time, doesn’t help the “gaming PTSD” that some of those of have the 2011 incident still fresh even almost 14 years later.

The Importance of Vigilance and Preparedness

The recurring nature of these incidents underscores the need for constant vigilance and preparedness in the face of cyber threats. For users, it’s essential to monitor account activity and be wary of suspicious communications requesting personal information. Sony’s recommendations during such events include checking bank statements for unauthorized transactions and avoiding sharing personal information in response to unsolicited requests.

For companies like Sony, investing in advanced cybersecurity measures and maintaining transparent communication with users during outages are critical steps in rebuilding and sustaining trust. The gaming community’s resilience and adaptability in the face of these challenges are also commendable, as gamers continue to find ways to stay connected and engaged despite disruptions.

The infamous PlayStation Network hacking of 2011 and the recent February 8, 2025 outage serve as stark reminders of the ever-present threat of cyberattacks. These incidents highlight the importance of robust cybersecurity measures, proactive monitoring, and transparent communication. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, so too must its approach to protecting user data and ensuring uninterrupted service. By learning from the past and preparing for the future, we can hope to minimize the impact of such disruptions and maintain a secure and enjoyable gaming environment for all.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

Sega Q3 2025 report doesn’t reveal Metaphor: ReFantazio initial performance of a full quarter

Sega Sammy Holdings Inc. recently released its Q3 2025 earnings report, revealing a mix of successes and challenges for the gaming giant. The report, released on February 7, 2025, showcased impressive sales figures for some of their flagship titles, while also highlighting areas that need improvement.

One of the standout performers in Sega’s portfolio was Sonic X Shadow Generations. This enhanced remaster of the beloved platformer Sonic Generations has surpassed 2 million copies sold worldwide since its launch in October 2024. The game received rave reviews for its new Shadow Generations campaign, which allowed players to delve deeper into the backstory of the enigmatic Shadow the Hedgehog.

The success of Sonic X Shadow Generations can be attributed to its nostalgic appeal and the introduction of new gameplay mechanics, such as Chaos Control and Chaos Snap, which set Shadow apart from Sonic. The game’s sales were further boosted by the release of the Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie, which reached $460 million in worldwide box office revenue.

Metaphor: ReFantazio: A Strong Debut

Another notable mention in Sega’s earnings report was Metaphor: ReFantazio, a JRPG developed by Atlus. The game made a remarkable debut, selling 1 million copies on its first day of release. While Sega did not provide updated sales figures for Metaphor: ReFantazio in the report, the initial numbers indicate a strong start for the title.

Metaphor: ReFantazio has been praised for its engaging story, rich character development, and innovative combat system. The game’s success is a testament to Atlus’ ability to create compelling RPG experiences that resonate with fans.

Challenges and Cancellations

Despite the successes, Sega’s earnings report also highlighted some challenges. The company announced the cancellation of Football Manager 25, citing external discussions and careful consideration with Sega. This decision reflects the company’s commitment to focusing on its most promising projects and ensuring the highest quality for its fans.

As Sega moves forward, the company is optimistic about its future prospects. With strong sales from Sonic X Shadow Generations and the promising start of Metaphor: ReFantazio, Sega is well-positioned to continue its growth in the gaming industry. The company’s focus on innovative gameplay, engaging stories, and cross-media synergy will be key to its success in the coming years.

Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

Resistance 4 was actually pitched but it never came reality

In a recent interview with Kinda Funny Games, Ted Price, the co-founder and soon-to-be-retired president of Insomniac Games, revealed that the studio had indeed pitched a sequel to the “Resistance” series, with Resistance 4, to Sony. However, the pitch was ultimately turned down.

Price shared that the concept for “Resistance 4” was a wonderful one, and the team at Insomniac Games was passionate about extending the story further. They had put extensive work into the game’s potential backstory and the overall direction of the franchise. The alternate history base of the “Resistance” series, with its intriguing Chimera and their origins, provided a rich foundation for future storytelling.

Despite the enthusiasm from the Insomniac team, Sony decided not to greenlight the project due to timing and market opportunity concerns. Price mentioned that the timing wasn’t right and that the market conditions didn’t favor the release of another “Resistance” game at that point. Additionally, there were concerns about the game’s concept being too similar to “The Last of Us,” and Sony didn’t want the two games overlapping.

Price also clarified that “Resistance 3” was intended to end that chapter of the franchise. The game’s ending, with the character Joseph Capelli and the closure of various storylines, was designed to provide more options for the future, whether it be more “Resistance” games or a different direction for the series.

While the news of the rejection was disappointing for fans of the series, Price remains hopeful that the “Resistance” franchise might make a return in the future. He expressed his love for the franchise and his desire to see the story taken further.

Fans have been eagerly awaiting a return or remaster of the “Resistance” trilogy, which has been stuck on the PlayStation 3 since its release. Although some of the games are available through PlayStation Plus streaming, there is still no native way to experience the trilogy on modern hardware.

Price’s comments have provided some insight into the decision-making process behind the rejection of “Resistance 4” and have given fans a glimmer of hope for the future of the series.

Breaking, Business, Games, Gaming, News

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

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

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

The Layoffs and Their Impact

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

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

The Future of SMITE

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

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

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

Football Manager 25 cancellation announced

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sports Interactive

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

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

Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Harrison Ford Praises Troy Baker’s “Brilliant” Performance in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

In a recent turn of events, Harrison Ford, the iconic actor behind Indiana Jones, has praised Troy Baker’s performance in the latest action-adventure game, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. The game, developed by MachineGames and published by Bethesda, has been a major hit since its release on Xbox Series X/S consoles and PC in December 20242.

Troy Baker, a veteran voice actor known for his roles in The Last of Us and Batman: Arkham Knight, almost didn’t get the role of Indiana Jones. Bethesda Game Studios’ Todd Howard initially had reservations about casting Baker, but the blind casting auditions convinced him otherwise1. Baker’s commitment to channeling Ford’s legendary character won over the entire development team.

Baker’s portrayal of Indiana Jones has been widely acclaimed for its near-flawless capture of Ford’s iconic voice and mannerisms. Fans and critics alike have noted the uncanny resemblance between Baker’s performance and Ford’s original portrayal of the character1. This level of detail and dedication has set a new standard for video game voice acting.

Harrison Ford’s Approval

During The Game Awards 2024, Ford himself took the stage to present the award for Best Performance and publicly praised Baker’s work. He said,

If I had known he was that good, I would have done it myself.

This endorsement from Ford is a significant milestone for Baker and highlights the importance of talent and dedication in voice acting.

Ford’s comments on Baker’s performance also touched on the ongoing debate about the use of AI in replicating iconic voices. He stated:

You don’t need artificial intelligence to steal my soul. You can already do it for nickels and dimes with good ideas and talent.

This sentiment resonates with many in the industry who believe that AI should not replace human actors but rather complement their work.

Troy Baker’s brilliant performance in “Indiana Jones and the Great Circle” has not only earned him praise from fans and critics but also the approval of the man who originally brought Indiana Jones to life. This achievement serves as a testament to Baker’s talent and the importance of human creativity in the entertainment industry.

Games, Gaming, News

Prime Gaming free games for February 2025 are official

Amazon Prime members have a lot to look forward to this February with Prime Gaming’s latest offerings! Prime Gaming, a benefit of Amazon Prime membership, continues to provide a fantastic selection of free games and exclusive in-game content each month.

This February, Prime Gaming is offering 20 free PC games that members can claim and keep forever, even if they cancel their Amazon Prime subscription.

Here are some of the standout titles available this month:

  • BioShock Infinite Complete Edition: Dive into the sky city of Columbia and experience the gripping story of Booker DeWitt and Elizabeth.
  • Wolfenstein: Youngblood: Team up with your sibling in this action-packed co-op shooter set in an alternate history where the Nazis won World War II.
  • Deus Ex: Human Revolution – Director’s Cut: Step into the shoes of Adam Jensen and uncover a conspiracy in this cyberpunk action RPG.
  • Surf World Series: Hit the waves and compete in this thrilling surfing game.
  • AK-xolotl: Together: Enjoy a fun and cooperative shooting experience with friends.
  • The Talos Principle: Gold Edition: Challenge yourself with over 120 immersive puzzles set in a mysterious and beautiful landscape.

How to Claim Your Free Games

Prime Gaming members can claim these games by linking their Amazon and Twitch accounts. Once claimed, the games will be available on various platforms such as the Epic Games Store, GOG, and the Amazon Games app4. Prime Gaming also offers a monthly Twitch channel subscription, adding even more value to your membership.

Additional Benefits of Prime Gaming

In addition to the free games, Prime Gaming members enjoy a host of other benefits, including:

  • Exclusive in-game content: Unlock special items and rewards for your favorite games.
  • Unlimited streaming access: Enjoy a vast collection of TV shows, movies, sports, and more with Prime Video.
  • Ad-free music: Listen to 2 million songs and thousands of stations and playlists with Amazon Music.
  • Prime Reading: Access a rotating selection of over 1,000 books and magazines.
  • Photo storage: Store your photos for free with Amazon Photos.

Prime Gaming continues to be a fantastic perk for Amazon Prime members, offering a wide range of entertainment options and exclusive content. Don’t miss out on this month’s exciting lineup of free games and loot!

Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

Is Death Stranding 2 closer that we think?!

Death Stranding 2: On The Beach has been making waves in the gaming community, and for good reason! Developed by Kojima Productions and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, this highly anticipated sequel is set to release on PlayStation 5 in 2025.

The conversation today started with the reveal that the game has recently been rated in South Korea, suggesting that its release might be closer than we think. The rating details include excessive violence, vulgar language, and drug use, which are common elements in Hideo Kojima’s games.

Also Hideo Kojima on social media with a tease:

All this included in the mix of noises that claims about Sony will announce Death Stranding 2 during their upcoming State of Play event on February 12, 2025. This event is expected to showcase new gameplay footage and provide more information about the game’s story and mechanics.

As of January 2025, Death Stranding 2 has entered the crunch phase of development. Hideo Kojima mentioned that the project was about 30-40% complete back in October 20242.

The game is being developed exclusively (timed maybe?) for the PlayStation 5, promising to take full advantage of the console’s advanced hardware capabilities.

The sequel will continue the story of Sam Porter Bridges, played by Norman Reedus, as he navigates a post-apocalyptic world to reconnect isolated cities. New characters, including Tomorrow (Elle Fanning) and Rainy (Shioli Kutsuna), will join the cast, adding fresh dynamics to the narrative.

While specific details about the gameplay are still under wraps, it’s expected that Death Stranding 2 will build on the traversal and connection mechanics of the original game. Players will likely face new challenges and explore expanded areas in their quest to deliver packages and rebuild infrastructure4.

Events, Games, Gaming, News

Capcom started the 2025 engines with Capcom Spotlight & Monster Hunter Wilds Showcase

On February 4, 2025, Capcom held a highly anticipated event featuring two back-to-back showcases: the Capcom Spotlight and the Monster Hunter Wilds Showcase. This event was a treasure trove of exciting updates and reveals for some of Capcom’s most beloved franchises.

Capcom Spotlight: A 20-Minute Powerhouse

The Capcom Spotlight kicked off at 2:00 PM PST (5:00 PM ET) and lasted for approximately 20 minutes.

During this segment, Capcom unveiled updates on several upcoming titles:

  • Onimusha: Way of the Sword: This long-awaited revival of Capcom’s cult-classic hack-and-slash adventure series received an extended gameplay preview. Fans were thrilled to see more of this beloved franchise.
  • Capcom Fighting Collection 2: This compilation features classic fighting games like Capcom vs. SNK 2: Mark of the Millennium 2001, Project Justice, Power Stone 1 and 2, and Rival Schools, now upgraded with quality-of-life features and online multiplayer with rollback netcode.
  • Marvel vs Capcom Fight Collection: Arcade Classics: This compilation includes titles from Capcom’s beloved Marvel Vs. Capcom franchise, such as Marvel Vs. Capcom Clash of Superheroes, Marvel Vs. Capcom 2 New Age of Heroes, and X-Men Vs. Street Fighter. An Xbox port for this title was also announced.

Monster Hunter Wilds Showcase: A 15-Minute Extravaganza

Following the Capcom Spotlight, the Monster Hunter Wilds Showcase began at 2:20 PM PST (5:20 PM ET) and lasted for 15 minutes. This segment was dedicated entirely to the latest and most anticipated entry in Capcom’s best-selling Monster Hunter series.

  • New Gameplay Information: The showcase revealed new gameplay mechanics and features, giving fans a deeper insight into what to expect from Monster Hunter Wilds.
  • Second Open Beta Test: More details were provided about the upcoming second Open Beta Test, including dates and new features.
  • New Cinematic Trailer: A stunning new cinematic trailer was unveiled, showcasing new and returning monsters for players to hunt. The trailer introduced a new region called Acantilado del Témpano and a new monster, Hirabami.
  • Character Creation and Customization: The showcase highlighted the extensive character creation and customization options available in the game, including the ability to personalize Felyne companions, mounts, and camps.
  • Editions and Pre-Orders: Capcom announced three editions of Monster Hunter Wilds: the Standard Edition, the Deluxe Edition, and the Premium Deluxe Edition, each offering different bonuses and pre-order perks.

The Capcom Spotlight and Monster Hunter Wilds Showcase were a resounding success, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the release of Monster Hunter Wilds on February 28, 2025. With its rich content and exciting updates, Capcom continues to solidify its position as a leading force in the gaming industry.