Category Archives: Gaming

Games, Gaming, News

Moon Studios more than ready for what’s next for No Rest for the Wicked development

Moon Studios, the creative force behind the critically acclaimed Ori series, has recently announced a significant milestone in its journey: the studio is now fully independent. This development comes after the studio secured the publishing rights to its latest game, No Rest for the Wicked, from Take-Two Interactive. Here’s a detailed look at this transformative moment for Moon Studios and what it means for the gaming world.

A New Chapter of Independence

Moon Studios, founded in 2010 by Thomas Mahler and Gennadiy Korol, has always been known for its innovative approach to game development. The studio gained widespread recognition with Ori and the Blind Forest and its sequel, Ori and the Will of the Wisps. These titles not only showcased the studio’s artistic and technical prowess but also cemented its reputation as a creator of emotionally resonant and visually stunning games.

The journey to independence began when Take-Two Interactive sold its indie-focused publishing arm, Private Division, in late 2024. While most of Private Division’s projects were included in the sale, No Rest for the Wicked was notably excluded. This decision allowed Moon Studios to negotiate and ultimately secure the publishing rights to the game, enabling the studio to take full control of its creative vision.

The Future of No Rest for the Wicked

No Rest for the Wicked, an action RPG that marks a departure from the Ori series’ platforming roots, has been in development for several years. The game was initially released in Steam Early Access in April 2024, with Private Division serving as its publisher. Now, as an independent entity, Moon Studios plans to release a major update for the game, titled “The Breach,” on April 30, 2025. This update promises to expand the game’s world significantly, introducing new areas, factions, enemies, and weapons, as well as deepening its lore.

Following “The Breach,” the studio has ambitious plans to add co-op gameplay for up to four players and new music composed by Gareth Coker, the celebrated composer of the Ori series. These updates reflect Moon Studios’ commitment to delivering a rich and evolving gaming experience.

The move to independence is not just about creative freedom; it’s also a statement about the studio’s aspirations. Thomas Mahler, CEO and creative director, has expressed a desire to push the boundaries of the action RPG genre, drawing on the studio’s experience and passion for storytelling and gameplay innovation.

Moon Studios’ decision to go independent is a testament to its confidence in its vision and its ability to navigate the challenges of the gaming industry. As the studio continues to develop No Rest for the Wicked and explore new creative horizons, it remains a shining example of what independent game development can achieve.

This milestone marks a new era for Moon Studios, one that promises to bring exciting developments for fans and the gaming community at large. With its track record of excellence and a clear vision for the future, the studio is poised to make a lasting impact on the industry.

Games, Gaming, News

Interesting RPG concept known as Project C4 from Disco Elysium developers

ZA/UM, the studio behind the critically acclaimed Disco Elysium, has unveiled its next project, an espionage RPG titled Project C4. This new game promises a unique blend of player introspection, deep character-driven dialogue, and high-stakes encounters influenced by dice rolls.

Set in a world filled with shadowy characters and geopolitical intrigue, players will assume the role of an “Operant” working for a questionable global power. The narrative revolves around a desperate mission where failure could lead to dire consequences, including exposure of the protagonist’s true nature.

A standout feature of Project C4 is its focus on the protagonist’s mind, which can be altered, erased, or reordered through the use of psychoactive substances. This psychological depth adds a layer of complexity to the gameplay, emphasizing survival in a violent and unpredictable world.

While Disco Elysium fans might be excited, it’s worth noting that many of the original team members are no longer part of ZA/UM due to internal conflicts and legal disputes.

Despite this, the studio aims to deliver a fresh and innovative experience with Project C4.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

We are bracing for the 30th anniversary of Chrono Trigger festivities

March 11, 2025, marks a monumental milestone in the gaming world—the 30th anniversary of Chrono Trigger, a game that has transcended generations and continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest RPGs of all time. Square Enix, the creative powerhouse behind this masterpiece, has announced a series of exciting projects to honor this occasion, sparking waves of nostalgia and speculation among fans.

A Legacy Worth Celebrating

Originally released in 1995 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Chrono Trigger was the result of a “dream team” collaboration between Yuji Horii (Dragon Quest), Hironobu Sakaguchi (Final Fantasy), and Akira Toriyama (Dragon Ball). Its innovative gameplay, captivating story, and unforgettable soundtrack by Yasunori Mitsuda set a new standard for RPGs. Over the years, the game has been re-released on various platforms, but its core essence remains untouched—a testament to its timeless appeal.

Square Enix has revealed plans for multiple projects to celebrate the game’s 30th anniversary. While the company has kept specific details under wraps, it has promised that these initiatives will “go beyond the world of the game.” This statement has fueled speculation about what fans can expect. Could it be a modern remake using the stunning 2D-HD art style seen in Octopath Traveler? Or perhaps an anime adaptation inspired by the game’s iconic cutscenes?

The possibilities are endless.

The announcement has ignited a flurry of excitement and theories among the gaming community. Many are hoping for a full-fledged remake or a re-release on modern consoles like the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch. Others are intrigued by the idea of non-gaming projects, such as an anime series or a documentary exploring the game’s development and impact.

Upcoming Events and Updates

To kick off the celebrations, Square Enix has planned a special livestream featuring the game’s legendary soundtrack. This event will be broadcast on the Square Enix Music Channel on YouTube, offering fans a chance to relive the magic of Mitsuda’s compositions. Additionally, the company has assured fans that more updates will be shared throughout the year via its official social media channels.

Chrono Trigger is more than just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has inspired countless creators and gamers. Its 30th anniversary is not just a celebration of its past but also a reminder of its enduring influence on the RPG genre and beyond.

As we await further details, one thing is certain: the legacy of Chrono Trigger continues to shine brightly, proving that great storytelling and innovative design are truly timeless.

Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

PS5 Pro will gain FSR 4 for the PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution framework

Last week, it was about the launch of the Radeon 9070 XT/ 9070 family for AMD’s effort in GPU with RDNA 4 and this week, is now about Sony helping to create FSR 4, an advanced machine learning-based upscaling technology for the Playstation 5. T

his innovation is a significant development in PlayStation’s Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) technology, specifically aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the PS5 Pro. Below is a detailed overview based on the summary:

Mark Cerny, the lead system architect at PlayStation, highlights the importance of FSR 4 (FidelityFX Super Resolution) in the next stage of PlayStation’s upscaling approach. While FSR 3.1 was a notable improvement in upscaling quality, FSR 4 incorporates a more sophisticated neural network-based machine learning model. This makes it a contender against Nvidia’s DLSS 4.

The integration of FSR 4 into the PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution framework is a pivotal step to improve image fidelity and performance. By leveraging PS5 Pro’s anticipated machine learning hardware upgrades, Sony aims to take upscaling quality to unprecedented levels, especially as the gaming industry demands higher resolutions and smoother performance.

Project Amethyst is the code name for the joint efforts by AMD and Sony. Together, they are advancing the machine learning architecture that powers FSR 4, ensuring it seamlessly fits into the PSSR ecosystem. The goal is to enable highly detailed visuals while remaining computationally efficient for gaming consoles.

One of the challenges discussed is the balancing act of maintaining compatibility with existing game frameworks while pushing the boundaries of visual enhancements. This ensures backward compatibility and allows developers to easily adopt the new technology in upcoming games.

Mark Cerny emphasizes that, while FSR 4 is a technological leap, its implementation on the PS5 Pro is an ambitious and long-term project. The PS5 Pro, anticipated for release by 2026, will require cutting-edge hardware to fully utilize the potential of FSR 4 without compromising the console’s performance.

FSR 4 is expected to be a critical component in achieving higher resolution outputs with minimal performance overhead. Sony’s focus is on improving gaming experiences for both developers and players, making this collaboration a long-term investment in the future of console gaming.

Games, Gaming, Hardware/Console, News, Xbox

A two side of the story behind the short-term of the future of Xbox

As we edge closer to 2026 and 2027, the gaming world is abuzz with speculation about the next generation of Xbox consoles. Two prominent sources, Windows Central and The Verge, have painted intriguing yet distinct pictures of what lies ahead for Microsoft’s gaming division. Let’s dive into their visions, compare their insights, and explore the possibilities if both are right—or wrong.

Windows Central’s Vision: A Handheld Revolution and Premium Consoles

Windows Central suggests that Microsoft’s gaming future is multifaceted. They report that Microsoft is working on an Xbox-branded gaming handheld, codenamed “Keenan,” slated for release as early as 2025. This device is expected to run full Windows, integrating PC Game Pass and Steam, and serving as a research platform for Microsoft’s broader gaming ambitions.

Looking further ahead, Windows Central claims that the next-generation Xbox consoles are already in production, with a targeted release in 2027. These consoles are described as premium successors to the Xbox Series X, promising the largest technological leap in Xbox history. The report also hints at new controller designs and a continued focus on backward compatibility.

The Verge’s Perspective: A Cloud-Driven Future

The Verge, on the other hand, emphasizes Microsoft’s commitment to cloud gaming and hybrid technology. They speculate that the next Xbox could leverage the combined power of local hardware and cloud computing to deliver unprecedented gaming experiences. This aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy of making gaming accessible across devices, from consoles to PCs and mobile platforms.

The Verge also highlights the potential for a more integrated ecosystem, where Xbox hardware seamlessly interacts with other Microsoft services like Azure and Windows. This could pave the way for innovative features, such as real-time game streaming with minimal latency and enhanced AI-driven game mechanics.

Comparing the Visions: Where They Align and Diverge

Both sources agree that Microsoft is aiming for a significant technological leap in its next-generation consoles. However, their focus areas differ. Windows Central leans towards hardware innovation, emphasizing the handheld device and premium consoles. The Verge, meanwhile, prioritizes the integration of cloud technology and ecosystem synergy.

If both are correct, we could see a future where Xbox offers a diverse range of gaming experiences, from high-performance consoles to versatile handhelds and cutting-edge cloud gaming. This would position Microsoft as a leader in both hardware and software innovation.

What If They’re Wrong?

If these predictions don’t materialize, Microsoft’s gaming strategy could face challenges. A lack of compelling hardware updates might alienate core gamers, while insufficient cloud infrastructure could hinder the adoption of next-gen features. In such a scenario, Microsoft would need to double down on its existing strengths, such as Game Pass and exclusive titles, to maintain its competitive edge.

The future of Xbox is undoubtedly exciting, with both Windows Central and The Verge offering compelling yet distinct visions. Whether it’s through groundbreaking hardware, innovative cloud technology, or a combination of both, Microsoft’s next steps will shape the gaming landscape for years to come. As gamers, all we can do is wait—and speculate

Featured, Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach launching date and preorders confirmed!

The gaming world is abuzz with excitement following the latest announcement from Hideo Kojima and Kojima Productions at SXSW 2025. The much-anticipated sequel, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, is set to launch on June 26, 2025, exclusively for the PlayStation 5. Here’s a deep dive into what we know so far about the game, its editions, and what fans can expect.

During a special panel at SXSW, Hideo Kojima, joined by Norman Reedus (who reprises his role as Sam Porter Bridges), Troy Baker, and musician Woodkid, unveiled a new trailer. The trailer showcased a mix of gameplay and cinematic sequences, offering a glimpse into the post-apocalyptic world that players will navigate. The panel also revealed exciting details about the game’s editions and pre-order bonuses.

Game Editions

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach will be available in three editions, catering to different types of players:

  1. Standard Edition:
    • Price: $69.99 USD
    • Includes the full game digital download.
    • Pre-order bonuses: Quokka Hologram and Silver Skeleton equipment.
  2. Digital Deluxe Edition:
    • Price: $79.99 USD
    • Includes the full game digital download and 48-hour early access.
    • Additional in-game items: Gold Skeleton equipment and exclusive patches.
    • Pre-order bonuses: Quokka Hologram and Silver Skeleton equipment.
  3. Collector’s Edition:
    • Price: $229.99 USD
    • Includes everything in the Digital Deluxe Edition, plus:
      • A 15-inch Magellan Man Statue.
      • A 3-inch Dollman figurine.
      • Art cards and a letter from Hideo Kojima.
      • A specially designed Collector’s Box.

Pre-orders for all editions will go live on March 17, 2025, at 10:00 AM local time. Players who pre-order will gain access to exclusive in-game items and early access to the game.

Special Features

Kojima Productions also announced a unique concert series titled Stranding Harmony. This global tour will celebrate the music of the Death Stranding series, starting on November 8, 2025, at the Sydney Opera House.

Building on the innovative gameplay of the original Death Stranding, the sequel promises an expansive open-world experience with new mechanics, deeper storytelling, and a star-studded cast. Fans can look forward to exploring a richly detailed world while unraveling the mysteries of the “Beach” and its connection to humanity’s survival.

With its release just a few months away, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated games of the year. Whether you’re a returning fan or new to the series, there’s never been a better time to dive into Kojima’s visionary universe.

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

The Pokémon Company and Honda collab brought a real-life Koraidon motorbike

In a delightful fusion of the virtual and real worlds, The Pokémon Company and Honda have teamed up to create a life-sized motorbike based on Koraidon, the cover star of Pokémon Scarlet. This collaboration is a testament to the enduring popularity and cultural impact of the Pokémon franchise, as well as Honda’s innovative spirit.

The Concept and Design

The motorbike is a scale replica of Koraidon, a legendary Pokémon that can transform into a motorbike in the Pokémon Scarlet video game. The bike is designed to replicate the size and weight of Koraidon, making it an impressive and eye-catching piece of art. While the motorbike is not fully functional, it features proprietary self-balancing technology that allows it to walk on all four legs and stand upright on two wheels. This technology was developed by Honda’s Innovative Research Excellence team, who have applied their expertise in motorcycle design and robotics to bring Koraidon to life.

The Koraidon motorbike is currently on display at the Honda Welcome Plaza Aoyama in Tokyo, Japan, from March 7 to March 9, 2025. This exhibit is part of a series of month-long events around Japan to celebrate Pokémon Day, which marks the 29th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise. Fans visiting the exhibit can marvel at the intricate details and craftsmanship of the motorbike, which captures the essence of Koraidon in both form and function.

Previous Collaborations and Future Prospects

This is not the first time The Pokémon Company and Honda have collaborated on a Pokémon-themed motorbike. Last year, Honda produced a motorbike based on Miraidon, the cover star of Pokémon Violet. Both Koraidon and Miraidon are featured in the latest mainline games in the Pokémon franchise, where they serve as the player’s mode of transport, transforming into bikes, boats, and climbing aids.

While it is currently unknown what will happen to the Koraidon motorbike after the exhibit concludes, it is possible that it will be transferred to one of the several Pokémon Center retail stores in Japan. These stores often feature large statues of Pokémon, making them the perfect home for this unique creation.

The Koraidon motorbike exhibit is just one of many events taking place across Japan to celebrate Pokémon Day. On February 27, The Pokémon Company held its annual Pokémon Presents stream, where they announced new episodes of Pokémon Concierge and a brand new game, Pokémon Champions. Additionally, they shared information about this year’s Pokémon game, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, which is set to be released for the Nintendo Switch later this year.

In conclusion, the collaboration between The Pokémon Company and Honda has resulted in a stunning and imaginative creation that brings the world of Pokémon to life in a new and exciting way. The Koraidon motorbike is a testament to the power of creativity and innovation, and it serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of the Pokémon franchise.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

RoboCop: Rogue City sequel officially announced

The world of RoboCop is set to expand once again with the announcement of a sequel to the 2023 hit game, RoboCop: Rogue City. Titled RoboCop: Rogue City – Unfinished Business, this new installment promises to bring even more action, intrigue, and high-tech combat to fans of the franchise. Let’s dive into what this sequel means for both new players and those who already own the first game.

RoboCop: Rogue City – Unfinished Business is set to launch in the summer of 2025. Developed by Teyon and published by Nacon, the game will take place in OmniTower, a massive housing complex built by the morally questionable Omni Consumer Products. Players will once again step into the shoes of the iconic RoboCop, Alex Murphy, as they fight their way to the top of the tower against a group of highly trained mercenaries armed with cutting-edge weapons.

The sequel will introduce new weapons, including the freezing Cryo Cannon, and allow players to deliver devastating finishing moves. Additionally, players will experience intense flashback missions, stepping into the shoes of RoboCop’s former self, Alex Murphy, before his transformation. This standalone follow-up promises to be a thrilling addition to the RoboCop universe, offering both new and returning players a fresh and exciting experience.

What This Means for Owners of the First Game

For those who already own the first game, RoboCop: Rogue City – Unfinished Business brings several exciting prospects:

  1. Standalone Adventure: The sequel is described as a standalone follow-up, meaning that players do not need to own the original game to enjoy the new content. However, for those who do own the first game, this sequel will feel like a natural continuation of the story and gameplay mechanics they have come to love.
  2. Enhanced Gameplay: Owners of the first game will appreciate the enhancements and new features introduced in the sequel. The addition of new weapons, finishing moves, and the ability to play as Alex Murphy in flashback missions will provide a fresh and engaging experience.
  3. Expanded Universe: The sequel will further expand the RoboCop universe, building on the lore and setting established in the first game. Players who enjoyed the original storyline and setting will find even more to explore and uncover in Unfinished Business.
  4. Community and Updates: The success of the first game has built a strong community of fans. The sequel’s release will likely bring new updates, events, and community engagement opportunities, keeping the excitement alive for both new and returning players.

The announcement of RoboCop: Rogue City – Unfinished Business is an exciting development for fans of the franchise. With its standalone nature, enhanced gameplay features, and expanded universe, the sequel promises to deliver a thrilling experience for both new players and those who already own the first game. As we await its summer 2025 release, the anticipation and excitement continue to build, ensuring that RoboCop remains a beloved and iconic figure in the world of gaming.

Business, Gaming, News

Until Dawn Remake’s developer Ballistic Moon is closing down

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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