Category Archives: Playstation

Playstation getting brave for a (uncertain) new economic world

Sony Group reported its Q4 2025 earnings on May 13, 2025, exceeding expectations with an EPS of $0.21, surpassing the consensus estimate of $0.12. The company’s trailing EPS stands at $1.23, with a P/E ratio of 20.23, and earnings are projected to grow 12.20% next year, reaching $1.38 per share.

Sony has also raised its annual earnings guidance, citing strong performance in its gaming and music divisions. The company’s third-quarter net profit exceeded analyst expectations, reinforcing its strategic focus on entertainment businesses.

PlayStation Business: A Key Growth Driver

Sony’s gaming segment continues to be a powerhouse, with PlayStation 5 sales reaching 9.5 million units, up from 8.2 million units in the previous year. The operating profit from its gaming business surged 37%, totaling ¥118.06 billion ($764.5 million USD). This growth was fueled by higher sales of network services and third-party software titles.

Sony’s entertainment businesses, including games, music, and movies, now account for nearly 60% of its overall revenue, a significant increase from 30% a decade ago. The company has invested billions of dollars in acquisitions to strengthen its entertainment content.

Investor Conference Insights

During the earnings briefing, incoming CEO Hiroki Totoki emphasized Sony’s need to compete globally, acknowledging that the company trails behind top global players in certain aspects. He highlighted the importance of expanding beyond Japan, with a focus on international growth and leadership restructuring.

Sony also announced Lin Tao as its new Chief Financial Officer, reinforcing its commitment to financial strategy and global expansion.

Given the latest exchange rates, Sony’s NYSE stock price of $24.70 USD translates to approximately ¥3,583 JPY. The gaming division’s operating profit of $764.5 million USD converts to roughly ¥118.06 billion JPY.

Sony’s latest earnings report underscores its strong performance in gaming and entertainment, with PlayStation 5 sales driving growth. The company’s strategic focus on global expansion and leadership changes signal a promising future for investors. As Sony continues to invest in entertainment content, its gaming division remains a key pillar of success.

Elsewhere for Sony as conglomerate…

1. Music

  • Sony Music reported strong growth, with streaming revenue increasing by 18%.
  • The company continues to expand its artist portfolio, securing exclusive deals with major global artists.

2. Pictures (Sony Entertainment)

  • Sony Pictures saw a 15% revenue increase, driven by box office successes and streaming partnerships.
  • The studio continues to invest in original content and franchise expansions.

3. Imaging & Sensing Solutions

  • Sony remains a leader in image sensors, supplying high-end camera technology to smartphone manufacturers.
  • The division reported a 12% increase in revenue, fueled by demand for advanced imaging solutions.

4. Entertainment, Technology & Services

  • Sony’s consumer electronics division, including TVs, audio equipment, and cameras, saw steady growth.
  • The company is focusing on AI-driven innovations to enhance its product lineup.

5. Financial Services

  • Sony’s financial division, including insurance and banking, reported stable earnings.
  • The company is expanding its digital financial services, leveraging AI and automation.

Sony’s diverse business portfolio continues to drive strong financial performance, with entertainment and technology leading the way.

EA Sports Shakes Up the Football Gaming Landscape with Major Announcements

EA Sports has officially unveiled its plans for Madden NFL 26 and College Football 26, and the gaming community is buzzing with excitement—and a bit of controversy. The announcement, made on NFL Draft Day, confirmed that both titles will launch this summer, but with a significant shift: neither game will be available on PlayStation 4 or Xbox One. This marks a pivotal moment in EA Sports’ transition away from previous-generation consoles, fully embracing the power of modern hardware.

For years, EA Sports has maintained support for older consoles, ensuring that players who hadn’t upgraded could still enjoy their annual football fix. However, with Madden NFL 26, the franchise is making a clean break, focusing exclusively on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and the upcoming Switch 2. This decision aligns with the industry’s broader trend of prioritizing current-gen hardware to deliver higher fidelity graphics, improved gameplay mechanics, and deeper immersion.

Meanwhile, College Football 26 is set to continue the revival of EA’s beloved college football series, which returned last year after a decade-long hiatus. The game promises an expanded career mode, allowing players to take their athlete from high school to college and eventually the NFL. This seamless progression between the two games is a major selling point, reinforcing EA’s vision of a connected football universe.

Why Leave Previous-Gen Behind?

The exclusion of PS4 and Xbox One is a bold move, but not entirely unexpected. These consoles, launched in 2013, are now over a decade old, and their hardware limitations have increasingly hindered developers from pushing the boundaries of gaming technology. By focusing on current-gen platforms, EA Sports can leverage advanced physics engines, enhanced AI, and more detailed player animations, creating a more authentic football experience.

Additionally, the shift allows EA to streamline development, ensuring that both Madden NFL 26 and College Football 26 take full advantage of next-gen capabilities without being constrained by outdated hardware.

Release Dates and Pre-Order Details

Gamers eager to dive into the action won’t have to wait long. College Football 26 is set to launch on July 10, 2025, with early access available on July 7 for those who pre-order the Deluxe Edition. Madden NFL 26 will follow shortly after, arriving on August 14, 2025, with early access beginning August 11.

For players looking to grab both games, EA is offering an MVP Bundle, which includes exclusive in-game content and early access perks. This bundle is designed to cater to die-hard football fans who want the full EA Sports football experience.

EA Sports’ decision to leave behind previous-generation consoles is a clear signal that the gaming industry is moving forward. While some players may be disappointed, the shift promises better graphics, smoother gameplay, and deeper immersion. With Madden NFL 26 and College Football 26, EA is betting big on the future of football gaming—and it looks like they’re ready to deliver.

Here’s what you need to know about Marathon

Bungie has officially announced the revival of its legendary sci-fi first-person shooter (FPS) franchise, Marathon. This marks a significant moment for fans of the series, as the franchise has been dormant for over two decades. The announcement has sparked excitement and curiosity, not only about the new game but also about the rich history of the Marathon universe.

The Origins of Marathon

The Marathon series debuted in 1994 as a groundbreaking FPS for the Apple Macintosh. At a time when PC gaming was dominated by titles like Doom and Wolfenstein 3D, Bungie chose the Mac platform for its openness to developers. The original Marathon was set in the year 2794 aboard the colony ship UESC Marathon. Players took on the role of an unnamed security officer tasked with defending the ship against an alien race known as the S’pht. The game’s narrative unfolded through computer terminals, offering messages from the ship’s AIs, crew diary entries, and other databases. This innovative storytelling approach set Marathon apart from other FPS games of its era.

The sequel, Marathon 2: Durandal, released in 1995, continued the story with the security officer being abducted by the sentient AI Durandal. The game introduced players to the S’pht homeworld, Lh’owon, and expanded on the series’ lore. Marathon 2 also introduced multiplayer modes that would later influence Bungie’s Halo series, including Deathmatch and King of the Hill.

The original Marathon games were celebrated for their deep narrative and innovative multiplayer modes. Today’s announcement suggests that Bungie is focusing on leveraging modern technology to enhance these elements. The new game is expected to offer a more immersive experience, with advanced graphics and potentially new multiplayer features that build on the foundation laid by the original series.

This revival is not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it’s a bold step forward for Bungie and the Marathon franchise. Fans of the original games and newcomers alike have much to look forward to as Bungie reimagines one of its most iconic properties.

The official 4/12/25 announcement

Bungie’s announcement of the new Marathon game brings the franchise into the modern era. While details are still emerging, the new game is set to take place in the same universe as the original series but will feature updated gameplay mechanics, graphics, and storytelling techniques. Bungie aims to honor the legacy of Marathon while introducing it to a new generation of gamers.

In Marathon, you step into the boots (or rather, cybernetic enhancements) of a Runner, a mercenary tasked with venturing into hostile zones to secure valuable loot. But you’re not alone – or rather, you are alone, but so are up to 17 other players in each zone. Form a crew of up to three and brace yourselves for encounters with rival runners, formidable security forces, and other unknown threats lurking within the ruins.

The core loop of Marathon is simple yet exhilarating: deploy into a zone, strategically gather loot, and successfully extract. Sounds straightforward, right? Wrong. Failure to extract means losing everything you’ve acquired. This high-risk, high-reward system injects a palpable tension into every encounter and decision you make.

Before dropping into the chaos, strategic planning is key. You’ll need to carefully build your loadout and select a Runner that complements your playstyle and your team’s composition. Once boots hit the ground, expect dynamic and tactical gunplay. This isn’t a run-and-gun affair; positioning, utilizing your Runner’s unique abilities, and customizing your build will be crucial for survival.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work (or Surviving a Nightmare)

While solo runs are possible for the brave (or foolish!), Marathon heavily emphasizes teamwork. The game features intuitive tools like contextual pings to facilitate communication and shared objectives to keep your crew coordinated. Down but not out? Thankfully, teammates can revive each other, offering a lifeline in the heat of battle.

A World That Lives and Breathes (and Shoots Back)

Forget static environments. Marathon promises a dynamic experience with ever-changing events, unpredictable weather patterns that can shift the battlefield, and of course, the wildcard element of other players with their own agendas. No two runs will feel exactly the same, ensuring a high degree of replayability and constant adaptation.

Meet the Runners: Choose Your Weapon (and Abilities)

We got a closer look at a few of the distinct Runner types, each bringing unique skills to the table:

  • Foil: The master of stealth, perfect for scouting ahead, flanking enemies, and avoiding unwanted attention. If you prefer a more clandestine approach, Foil might be your go-to.
  • Glitch: An agile disruptor, designed to get in close, cause chaos, and destabilize enemy formations. If you like to be a slippery and disruptive force, Glitch could be your ideal pick.
  • Support: The backbone of any good crew, providing essential support through extra equipment and vital shield charges. If you prefer a more supportive role, keeping your team alive and well-equipped, this Runner is for you.

Beyond the Loot: Progression and the Long Haul

The loot you manage to extract isn’t just for bragging rights. It fuels your future runs, allowing you to grow in power and tackle even greater challenges. This persistent progression system ensures that every successful extraction contributes to your overall strength and preparedness.

But the journey doesn’t end with looting and extracting. Marathon has ambitious plans for the future, including challenging endgame content, competitive ranked play to test your skills against the best, hidden secrets waiting to be uncovered, a seasonal storytelling approach to unravel the mysteries of Taeti IV, and engaging community events to keep the experience fresh and exciting.

The stage is set, Runners. Season 1 promises to delve deep into the lore and secrets of Taeti IV. Get ready to explore its ruins, face its dangers, and carve your legend in this high-stakes extraction shooter. Marathon looks set to deliver a thrilling and dynamic multiplayer experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Marathon is slated to be released on September 23, 2025 for the Playstation 5, Xbox Series S & X and PC (via Steam), so Bungie being a independent subsidiary of Sony Interactive Entertainment wasn’t a deterrent of the game landing elsewhere from Playstation.

But before the release, the game will have closed alpha testing period that starts April 23 and any players interested in the testing Marathon ahead of its September release can sign up on the Marathon’s official Discord (subject to be selected after the process which includes a NDA and a survey [which disallow me to share details until Bungie authorize me]).

Some early expectations about the game (from game’s Direction Joe Ziegler follow-up declarations) is that Bungie doesn’t see Marathon as a competing response to other extraction games and also, that Proximity Chat will NOT be a thing on the game.

About viewing Marathon as a mere extraction competitor:

I don’t think of making games as directly competing and trying to eat a bunch of other people’s lunch.

On proximity chat:

I think the challenge is how to make sure we’re creating a safe environment for players inside of that space. I don’t think anyone really has a good solution to that just yet.

Metal Gear Delta: Snake Eater will respect every aspect of its source

The Metal Gear Solid franchise has long stood as a beacon of storytelling mastery, blending high-stakes espionage with profound narratives that challenge players to ponder deeper ethical and philosophical questions. With the announcement of Metal Gear Delta: Snake Eater, a remake of the legendary Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, fans are eager to see whether the mature elements of the original will be retained and perhaps even expanded.

The Legacy of Mature Themes in Snake Eater

When Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater debuted in 2004, it was lauded not just for its gameplay innovations but also for its thematic complexity. The game tackled topics such as loyalty, betrayal, sacrifice, and the moral ambiguities of war. At its core was the story of Naked Snake and his mentor, The Boss—a tale of love, loss, and ideological conflict.

The mature elements of the game were not limited to the storyline. The gritty depiction of survival in a hostile environment highlighted the physical and psychological toll of being a soldier. Mechanically, players had to hunt for food, treat injuries, and adapt to changing conditions, immersing themselves in the harsh reality of Snake’s mission. These gameplay elements seamlessly intertwined with the narrative, making players feel the weight of Snake’s journey.

What Can Metal Gear Delta Offer?

As a modern remake, Metal Gear Delta: Snake Eater has the opportunity to elevate these mature themes with the advancements in gaming technology and storytelling techniques. Here are a few possibilities:

  1. Enhanced Character Depth: With updated graphics and voice acting, the nuanced emotions of characters like The Boss, Eva, and Ocelot could become even more impactful. A deeper exploration of their backstories and motivations could enrich the narrative’s complexity.
  2. Visual Realism and Emotional Weight: The original game’s jungle environment was immersive, but modern rendering technologies could bring it to life in unprecedented ways. Imagine the tension of crawling through dense foliage or the visceral horror of encountering dangerous wildlife, amplified by hyper-realistic visuals and sound design.
  3. Expanded Narrative Choices: While the original game had a linear storyline, the remake could introduce branching paths or dialogue choices that allow players to explore moral dilemmas more deeply. This could highlight the consequences of Snake’s actions in a more profound way.
  4. Improved Survival Mechanics: The survival aspects of Snake Eater were groundbreaking for their time. A remake could refine these systems, adding more layers of realism—such as more intricate injury mechanics or dynamic weather effects that impact gameplay.
  5. Subtle Yet Powerful Additions: The themes of patriotism and ideological conflict were central to the original game. By subtly weaving in contemporary parallels, the remake could connect with modern audiences without detracting from the timeless nature of its story.

Staying True to the Original

While innovation is crucial, fans of the franchise will want Metal Gear Delta: Snake Eater to stay true to the essence of the original. The mature elements that made the game a masterpiece—its intricate storytelling, emotional depth, and immersive gameplay—must remain at the heart of the experience.

Ultimately, Metal Gear Delta: Snake Eater has the potential to not only honor the legacy of the original but also to redefine it for a new generation. By retaining the mature themes that made Metal Gear Solid 3 so impactful while leveraging modern advancements, the remake could stand as both a love letter to longtime fans and a fresh entry point for newcomers. The anticipation is palpable, and if done right, this could be a defining moment in gaming history.

Gradius Origins Collection is the latest on retro gaming offering for current generation

Konami has officially announced the release of the Gradius Origins Collection, a highly anticipated compilation of classic arcade shoot-’em-up titles. This collection is set to launch on August 7, 2025, and will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam. This marks a significant moment in gaming history, as PlayStation collaborates to bring this iconic series to rival platforms, including Nintendo Switch and Xbox.

A Nostalgic Journey with Modern Enhancements

The Gradius Origins Collection promises to be a treasure trove for fans of the series and newcomers alike. It features 18 versions across seven arcade titles, including the first-ever home console release of the Gradius III AM Show Version. Players can expect a variety of new features designed to enhance gameplay, such as:

  • Save States: Allowing players to save their progress at any point.
  • Rewind Feature: A handy tool for retrying challenging sections.
  • Invincible Mode: Perfect for casual players or those looking to explore the game without the stress of constant failure.
  • Training Mode: Customizable settings to help players hone their skills, including restart points, loop counts, and power-up statuses.

Additionally, the collection includes a gallery feature with music, artwork, and other nostalgic content from the series, offering a comprehensive look into the legacy of Gradius.

Cross-Platform Availability: A Game-Changer

What makes this announcement particularly exciting is the cross-platform availability. Historically, Gradius has been closely associated with Konami’s legacy on PlayStation. However, this release signifies a shift towards inclusivity, allowing players on Nintendo Switch and Xbox Series to experience the thrill of Gradius for the first time. This move aligns with the broader industry trend of breaking down platform exclusivity barriers, fostering a more unified gaming community.

The decision to make Gradius Origins Collection available on multiple platforms is a testament to the evolving gaming landscape. It reflects a growing recognition of the importance of accessibility and community-building in the gaming world. By bringing this iconic series to a wider audience, Konami and PlayStation are not only preserving the legacy of Gradius but also introducing it to a new generation of gamers.

The Gradius Origins Collection is more than just a compilation; it’s a celebration of a franchise that has defined the shoot-’em-up genre for decades. With its modern enhancements and cross-platform availability, this release is poised to be a landmark event in 2025. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, August 7 is a date to mark on your calendar.

Indiana Jones and The Great Circle is heading to PS5

The iconic adventurer, Indiana Jones, has once again captured the imagination of gamers with the release of Indiana Jones and The Great Circle. Initially launched as an Xbox and PC exclusive in November 2024, the game is now set to make its debut on the PlayStation 5 on April 17, 2025.

This marks a significant shift in Microsoft’s gaming strategy, as the company moves away from platform exclusivity to embrace a more inclusive approach.

When Indiana Jones and The Great Circle was first announced, it was clear that Microsoft intended to keep the game as an exclusive title for its Xbox ecosystem. Developed by MachineGames and published by Bethesda Softworks, the game was a high-profile addition to Microsoft’s portfolio, especially after its acquisition of ZeniMax Media, Bethesda’s parent company. The exclusivity was seen as a strategic move to bolster Xbox’s competitive edge against Sony’s PlayStation.

However, the gaming landscape began to evolve. Microsoft’s vision shifted towards a more player-centric approach, focusing on accessibility and reaching a broader audience. This change in strategy was influenced by the success of Xbox Game Pass and the growing demand for cross-platform availability. The decision to bring Indiana Jones and The Great Circle to PS5 is a testament to this new direction.

The Game: A Globe-Trotting Adventure

Indiana Jones and The Great Circle has been lauded as one of the best Indiana Jones video game adaptations to date. The game offers a thrilling mix of stealth, action, and puzzle-solving, set against the backdrop of beautifully realized locations. Players don the iconic fedora and whip as they embark on a globe-trotting adventure filled with secrets, challenges, and Nazi-thwarting escapades.

The PS5 version promises to deliver the same exhilarating experience, with potential enhancements tailored to the platform’s capabilities. While specific details about PS5-exclusive features remain under wraps, fans are eagerly anticipating the game’s release.

A New Era for Xbox Game Studios

The decision to release Indiana Jones and The Great Circle on PS5 is part of a broader trend within Xbox Game Studios. Over the past year, several former Xbox exclusives, such as Sea of Thieves and Hi-Fi Rush, have made their way to other platforms. This strategy not only expands the reach of these games but also fosters goodwill among the gaming community.

As the walls of platform exclusivity continue to crumble, the gaming industry is entering a new era of collaboration and accessibility. Microsoft’s willingness to adapt and evolve its approach is a promising sign for the future of gaming.

In conclusion, the arrival of Indiana Jones and The Great Circle on PS5 is more than just a game release; it’s a milestone in the ongoing transformation of the gaming industry. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Indiana Jones or a newcomer to his adventures, this is an opportunity to experience a truly remarkable game on a new platform. So, grab your whip and get ready for an unforgettable journey!

God Of War reaches its 2 decades and still going strong

March 22, 2025, marks a monumental milestone in gaming history—the 20th anniversary of the iconic God of War franchise. From its humble beginnings on the PlayStation 2 to its evolution into a critically acclaimed saga, God of War has not only redefined action-adventure games but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of gamers worldwide. Let’s take a journey through the legacy of Kratos, the Ghost of Sparta, and explore how this franchise has grown over the past two decades.

The Birth of a Legend (2005)

The original God of War debuted in 2005, introducing players to Kratos, a Spartan warrior consumed by vengeance against the gods of Olympus. Developed by Santa Monica Studio, the game was a groundbreaking blend of brutal combat, intricate puzzles, and epic storytelling. Its cinematic presentation and visceral gameplay set a new standard for the genre, earning it numerous Game of the Year awards.

The Greek Saga: A Tale of Revenge

The early years of the franchise were defined by Kratos’ relentless quest for revenge against the Greek pantheon. Titles like God of War II (2007) and God of War III (2010) expanded the narrative, showcasing larger-than-life battles against iconic figures like Zeus and Poseidon. These games were celebrated for their jaw-dropping set pieces, such as the battle against the Colossus of Rhodes and the ascent of Mount Olympus.

A Bold Reimagining: The Norse Saga

In 2018, Santa Monica Studio took a bold step by rebooting the series with God of War (2018). Set in the realm of Norse mythology, the game introduced a more mature and introspective Kratos, now a father to Atreus. This reinvention was a masterclass in storytelling, exploring themes of redemption, parenthood, and the cyclical nature of violence. The sequel, God of War Ragnarök (2022), continued this narrative, cementing the series’ place as a modern masterpiece.

20th Anniversary Celebrations

To commemorate this milestone, Sony and Santa Monica Studio have rolled out a series of celebratory initiatives:

  • Dark Odyssey Collection: A free update for God of War Ragnarök featuring black-and-gold-themed armor and weapon appearances inspired by the original God of War II.
  • Art Exhibition: A showcase of concept art and iconic moments from the franchise, held in Los Angeles.
  • Merchandise: Limited-edition items, including a retrospective book, art prints, and a vinyl soundtrack collection.
  • Digital Goodies: Free anniversary-themed avatars, wallpapers, and social media assets for fans.

The Legacy of Kratos

Over the past 20 years, God of War has evolved from a tale of vengeance to a deeply human story about growth and change. Kratos’ journey—from a rage-fueled antihero to a complex, empathetic character—mirrors the franchise’s own transformation. It’s a testament to the creative vision of Santa Monica Studio and the enduring support of its passionate fanbase.

As we celebrate this milestone, one thing is clear: God of War is more than just a game. It’s a cultural phenomenon that has inspired countless players and creators alike. Here’s to 20 years of myth, legend, and unforgettable adventures—and to many more to come.

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.

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.

Playstation user will have future opportunities on testing more than firmwares in the future

Sony has recently announced an exciting new beta program for Playstation users, aimed to let gamers to have a “more consolidated way” to test new features across “a wide range of PlayStation experiences.”. This initiative allows selected participants to experience and provide feedback on new games testing on both PS5 and Playstation games for PC.

The Beta Program at PlayStation will create an easy, centralized place for you to register your interest in a range of future PlayStation betas. A single registration for Beta Program at PlayStation will allow you to express interest in gaining beta access to test participating games for the PS5 console and PC, new PS5 console features, PlayStation App features, and even user experience features on PlayStation.com. You only need to sign up once to express interest in these various betas, and if you receive an invitation to a specific beta, it’s up to you to decide whether you’d like to participate or not.

According to the official blog, the requirements are:

  • Players must have a valid account for PlayStation Network in good standing with a current email address. Accounts with restrictions or violations may not be eligible for participation.
  • Players must live in the region where Beta Program at PlayStation is available.
  • Players must meet the legal age requirement for their region.

It is important to notice (and as expected on the nature of testing and BETAs), gamers needs to have their expectations clear in terms that there will be moments where a test phase could have its space will be limited and signing up won’t guarantee acceptance for specific opportunities.