Tag Archives: Capcom

Breath of Fire IV Joins the GOG Preservation Program

More than two decades after its original release, Breath of Fire IV has returned to PC as part of the GOG Preservation Program. This initiative, spearheaded by GOG, aims to restore and maintain classic games, ensuring they remain accessible to modern audiences without the constraints of DRM or outdated compatibility issues.

The Legacy of Breath of Fire IV

Originally launched in 2000 (and 2003 for Europe and Japan), Breath of Fire IV is a beloved JRPG from Capcom that continues the franchise’s tradition of turn-based combat, deep storytelling, and a rich fantasy world. The game follows Ryu, a mysterious warrior with the ability to transform into a dragon, and Princess Nina, who embarks on a quest to find her missing sister, Elena. Their journey takes them across two continents, embroiled in political intrigue and ancient conflicts.

Despite its cult status, the original PC port of Breath of Fire IV was notoriously flawed, suffering from low-resolution graphics and compatibility issues. However, thanks to GOG’s restoration efforts, the game has been modernized with bug fixes, improved rendering options, restored environmental sounds, and full controller support. While some players note that upscaling still requires tweaking, the new version is widely regarded as the best way to experience the game on PC today.

The GOG Preservation Program: Keeping Classics Alive

The GOG Preservation Program is dedicated to reviving classic games, ensuring they remain playable on modern systems while maintaining their original charm. Unlike other digital platforms, GOG prioritizes DRM-free gaming, meaning players can own and play their games without restrictions.

Breath of Fire IV was selected for preservation after more than 23,000 votes from fans on the GOG Dreamlist, a community-driven initiative where players nominate titles they want to see restored. This underscores the game’s enduring popularity and the demand for classic JRPGs in today’s gaming landscape.

For fans of retro gaming, the inclusion of Breath of Fire IV in the GOG Preservation Program is a significant milestone. It not only revives a beloved classic but also highlights the importance of preserving gaming history. With modern gaming often dominated by live-service models and digital-only releases, initiatives like GOG’s ensure that older titles remain accessible for future generations.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, this is the perfect opportunity to experience one of Capcom’s most cherished RPGs in its best possible form. You can find Breath of Fire IV on GOG and immerse yourself in its epic tale of dragons, war, and destiny.

Developer: Unknown
Price: 9.99

Monster Hunter Wilds is doing great despite initial PC reception on performance

The gaming world has been abuzz with the release of Monster Hunter Wilds, the latest installment in Capcom’s iconic franchise. Launched on February 28, 2025, this action-packed RPG has not only captivated players with its immersive gameplay but also shattered sales records, cementing its place as a monumental success for Capcom.

Within just one month of its release, Monster Hunter Wilds achieved a staggering milestone of 10 million copies sold across platforms, setting a new first-month sales record for Capcom. This feat is even more impressive considering that the game sold over 8 million copies within the first three days, making it the fastest-selling title in the company’s history. The introduction of crossplay—a first for the series—played a significant role in broadening its appeal, allowing players on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC to hunt together seamlessly.

Capcom attributes this success to the game’s innovative features, such as the new “Focus Mode” mechanic and the seamless transition between settlements and ecosystems, which have enhanced the overall gaming experience. The game’s simultaneous global release further amplified its reach, drawing in both series veterans and newcomers alike.

Gaming Performance: A Mixed Bag

While Monster Hunter Wilds has been lauded for its lush environments and dynamic weather systems, its performance on PC has been a point of contention. The game, powered by Capcom’s proprietary RE Engine, offers stunning visuals but demands significant hardware capabilities. Players with high-end GPUs have reported smooth gameplay, but those with mid-range or lower-end systems have faced challenges, including frame rate drops and stability issues.

Capcom has acknowledged these concerns and is actively working on improvements. The first Title Update, scheduled for April 4, 2025, aims to address key performance issues, such as reducing VRAM usage and upgrading the DirectStorage version on Steam. These updates are expected to enhance stability and provide a smoother experience for PC players.

Updates and Community Engagement

Capcom’s commitment to post-launch support is evident in its roadmap for Monster Hunter Wilds. The upcoming Title Update will not only improve performance but also introduce new content, including a fan-favorite monster and the Grand Hub, an in-game social space for players. Future updates promise even more enhancements, from weapon balance adjustments to quality-of-life improvements, ensuring that the game continues to evolve and delight its community.

Monster Hunter Wilds has set a new benchmark for the franchise, blending innovative gameplay mechanics with the series’ beloved core elements. While its sales figures are a testament to its widespread appeal, the ongoing performance issues highlight the challenges of delivering a seamless experience across diverse platforms. As Capcom rolls out updates and engages with its player base, the future of Monster Hunter Wilds looks brighter than ever.

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.

Capcom ended 2024 with a sudden stop on positive quarters

For those who has been following corporate news and mainly from Capcom, the Japanese veteran has been nailing good numbers in each earning report from the past 2 years, but of course and unfortunately, some things cannot last forever and this is what the latest earning can tell us.

Capcom released its consolidated financial results for the 9 months ending December 31, 2024 for its Q3 for the fiscal year 2024. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the company’s performance and future outlook, revealing both challenges and opportunities ahead.

The creators of franchise like Megaman, Resident Evil, Street Fighter and other classics, reported net sales of 88.853 billion yen or around $573.08 million, a decrease of 16.3% compared to the same period last year. The operating income also saw a significant decline, dropping by 33.4% to 23.066 billion yen or around $149.84 million.

Despite these decreases, Capcom remains optimistic about its future performance, citing several key factors contributing to its resilience.

The Digital Contents segment, which includes home video games, experienced a slight decline in unit sales for new titles. However, the performance of catalog titles (excluding those released in the previous fiscal year) has steadily increased year over year2. The Arcade Operations business saw growth in existing stores, which were utilized as cooling shelters during hot weather, resulting in increased revenue and profit. The Amusement Equipments business launched two new models and sold 17,000 units as planned, benefiting from cost reductions through the procurement of common components.

Future Outlook

Capcom has maintained its full-year forecast, with expectations of increased sales and profit due to digital sales growth in the Consumer sub-segment. The company forecasts an earnings per share of ¥109.98 (US’ 71 cents) and a dividend of ¥36 (US’ 23 cents) for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025. Capcom aims for 12 consecutive years of operating profit growth, driven by the stability of Digital Contents and strong performance in the Amusement Businesses.

Key Takeaways

  1. Resilience Amid Challenges: Despite a decrease in net sales and operating income, Capcom remains optimistic about its future performance.
  2. Growth in Digital Sales: The company expects increased sales and profit due to digital sales growth in the Consumer sub-segment.
  3. Strong Performance in Amusement Businesses: The Arcade Operations and Amusement Equipments businesses have shown growth and resilience.

Capcom’s latest earnings report highlights the company’s ability to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities in the ever-evolving video game industry. With a strong focus on digital sales and continued innovation in its business segments, Capcom is well-positioned for future growth.

Dino Crisis 1 and 2 are back thanks to gaming preservation efforts of GOG

Exciting news for survival horror fans! Capcom’s beloved Dino Crisis series has made a triumphant return to PC via GOG. Both Dino Crisis 1 and Dino Crisis 2 are now available DRM-free, meaning no activation or online connection is required to play. This is a dream come true for fans who have been eagerly waiting for these classics to be revived.

The new versions of Dino Crisis 1 and 2 come with several enhancements to ensure they run smoothly on modern systems. These include:

  • Increased resolution support, with the first game offering near 4K resolution.
  • Modern control support, making it easier to play with contemporary controllers.
  • Improved rendering and sound, providing a more immersive experience.
  • Fixes for common issues, ensuring a more stable gameplay.
  • Localization options, allowing players to enjoy the game in their preferred language.

GOG Preservation Program

The release of Dino Crisis 1 and 2 is part of GOG’s Preservation Program, an initiative aimed at keeping older games accessible and playable on modern hardware. This program involves updating and enhancing classic games to ensure they remain compatible with new PC systems. By providing DRM-free versions, GOG ensures that these games can be played without the need for an online connection, addressing a common complaint among gamers.

Game preservation is becoming increasingly important as the industry moves forward. According to GOG, 87% of games released prior to 2010 are no longer available, making initiatives like the Preservation Program crucial for keeping gaming history alive. By bringing back games like Dino Crisis, GOG not only honors the legacy of these titles but also provides new generations of gamers the opportunity to experience them.

Dino Crisis and Dino Crisis 2 will have an introductory price of $9.99 each, but as in the case of Resident Evil first 3 games collection, a bundle that includes both games will be available for $16.99.

Mai Shiranui trailer for Street Fighter 6 released

The wait is finally over for fans of the iconic fighting game series as Capcom has released the highly anticipated Mai Shiranui gameplay trailer for Street Fighter 6!

Mai Shiranui, a fan favorite from SNK’s Fatal Fury series, has officially made her way into the Street Fighter universe. Known for her signature whip and lightning-fast kicks, Mai is set to bring her unique fighting style and charm to the game. The newly released trailer showcases her stunning new look and gameplay mechanics, giving fans a glimpse of what to expect when she becomes playable in early 2025.

The trailer reveals Mai’s stage, which is set in Aokigahara, Japan, her stage from Fatal Fury Special. Fans are thrilled to see her signature fire dancing with her trademark fans, a move that has become synonymous with her character.

Players can get Mai via direct purchase of the Season Pass or buying the in-game currency Fighter Coins to directly buy her if you are just for individual character purchase.

Mai Shiranui will be available to purchase begging in February 5, 2025.

With Mai’s release Capcom closes the circle of the Street Fighter 6 Season 2, of course, the expectations is that the roster for Street Fighter 6 continues to expand, adding more depth and variety to the game’s fighting mechanics as Capcom probably is preparing for Year 3 content.

Capcom Revives Classic IPs: Okami and Onimusha Lead the Charge

Capcom has officially announced plans to revive several of its dormant franchises, starting with the highly anticipated sequels to Okami and Onimusha. This exciting news was revealed during The Game Awards 2024, sending waves of nostalgia and excitement through the gaming community.

During The Game Awards 2024, Capcom unveiled teaser trailers for both Okami: Way of the Sword and Onimusha: Way of the Sword. These announcements mark the return of two beloved franchises that have been dormant for nearly two decades.

The trailers showcased stunning visuals and hinted at the return of iconic gameplay elements that fans have been eagerly waiting for.

In a press release, Capcom stated that it is focusing on re-activating dormant IPs that haven’t seen new titles in recent years. This initiative aims to leverage Capcom’s rich library of content to continuously produce highly efficient, high-quality titles. The company plans to bring back more classic IPs in the coming years, although specific properties have yet to be named.

The announcement has been met with overwhelming excitement from fans who have longed to see their favorite franchises return

Surveys conducted by Capcom earlier this year indicated high interest in reviving titles such as Dino Crisis, Mega Man, Darkstalkers, and Breath of Fire.

Fans are hopeful that Capcom will continue to bring back more beloved games from its extensive catalog.

The Future of Capcom’s Classic IPs

With the revival of Okami and Onimusha, Capcom has set a precedent for bringing back other dormant franchises. The company’s commitment to re-activating these IPs signals a bright future for fans of classic Capcom games. Whether it’s the return of the Blue Bomber in Mega Man or the survival horror thrills of Dino Crisis, the possibilities are endless.

Capcom’s decision to revive its dormant franchises is a win for gamers everywhere. The return of Okami and Onimusha is just the beginning, and fans can look forward to more nostalgic adventures in the years to come. With Capcom’s rich history of iconic games, the future looks promising for the revival of many beloved franchises.

Capcom finally makes the move and here comes Onimusha: Way of the Sword

After an 18-year hiatus, Capcom’s beloved samurai series, Onimusha, is making a grand comeback with Onimusha: Way of the Sword. This thrilling announcement was made during The Game Awards 2024, sending waves of excitement through the gaming community.

The reveal of Onimusha: Way of the Sword at The Game Awards 2024 marks the franchise’s first new game since 2006. The teaser trailer showcased a lone samurai wielding the iconic Oni Gauntlet, engaging in intense sword fights with supernatural creatures.

The trailer hinted at a dark and twisted rendition of Edo-era Kyoto, shrouded in malevolent clouds of Malice.

Onimusha: Way of the Sword features full 3D combat, drawing inspiration from modern action games while retaining the series’ signature elements. Players can expect to absorb souls from defeated enemies, face off against challenging bosses, and experience fluid and dynamic combat.

The visuals have received a dramatic upgrade, bringing the game into the modern gaming era.

The new Onimusha game is being developed by Capcom, with a talented team dedicated to bringing the series back to life. The game is set to release in 2026 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.

This collaboration promises to deliver a game that honors the legacy of the original Onimusha games while introducing new elements to captivate both old and new players.

A Legacy of Art and Adventure

Originally released in 2001, Onimusha: Warlords captivated players with its blend of action, adventure, and Japanese folklore. The game’s innovative gameplay and stunning visuals earned it critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Now, with Onimusha: Way of the Sword, Capcom aims to build upon this legacy, offering a fresh yet familiar experience for fans of the series.

While specific details about Onimusha: Way of the Sword are still under wraps, fans can look forward to more information being revealed in.

Okami Sequel Announced

Fans of the beloved action-adventure game Okami have reason to celebrate! During The Game Awards 2024, Capcom officially announced that a sequel to Okami is in development. This news has thrilled gamers worldwide, especially with the return of the original game’s director, Hideki Kamiya.

The announcement came as a delightful surprise during The Game Awards 2024. Capcom unveiled a teaser trailer that featured the iconic wolf protagonist, Amaterasu, hinting at a new adventure filled with the same beautiful watercolor art style and unique gameplay mechanics that made the original game a classic.

The trailer didn’t reveal much, but it was enough to ignite excitement among fans.

The Return of Hideki Kamiya

One of the most exciting aspects of this announcement is the return of Hideki Kamiya as the director. Kamiya, who directed the original Okami, is known for his work on other critically acclaimed games such as Resident Evil 2, Devil May Cry, and Bayonetta.

His involvement in the sequel has raised expectations for a game that will stay true to the spirit of the original while introducing new elements to captivate both old and new players.

The new Okami sequel is being co-developed by multiple studios, including M-Two Inc., Machine Head Works, and Clovers Inc., where Kamiya is currently working. This collaboration brings together a talented team of developers who are passionate about creating a game that honors the legacy of Okami while pushing the boundaries of what the series can achieve.

Originally released in 2006 for the PlayStation 2, Okami is celebrated for its unique art style, inspired by traditional Japanese watercolor and woodcut techniques, and its innovative gameplay mechanics involving the Celestial Brush.

Players take on the role of Amaterasu, the Japanese sun goddess in the form of a white wolf, as she embarks on a quest to restore life and color to the world. The game’s artistic design and heartwarming story have earned it a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim over the years.

What’s Next?

While specific details about the Okami sequel are still under wraps, fans can look forward to more information being revealed in the coming months. The development team is committed to delivering a game that captures the magic of the original while offering new experiences and challenges for players to enjoy.

The announcement of an Okami sequel has reignited excitement among fans of the original game. With Hideki Kamiya back at the helm and a talented team of developers working on the project, the future of Okami looks brighter than ever.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, this upcoming game promises to deliver an unforgettable adventure filled with art, magic, and heart.

Is Capcom wanting to tell us something with a surprising RE Engine contest?

Capcom has announced its first-ever game development competition for Japanese students, utilizing its proprietary RE Engine. Titled the Capcom Games Competition, this event aims to invigorate the game industry by contributing to the development of research at educational institutions and training outstanding talent.

The RE Engine, also known as Reach for the Moon Engine, was originally developed for Resident Evil 7: Biohazard in 2014. Since then, it has been continuously evolved and used in several Capcom titles, including recent Resident Evil games, Dragon’s Dogma 2, and Monster Hunter Wilds. The engine simplifies complex technologies, making them manageable for developers, and allows for lifelike, photorealistic visuals.

The Competition Details

The competition is open to students aged 18 and older who are enrolled in a university, graduate school, or vocational school in Japan. Teams of up to 20 students will create games using the RE Engine in a cloud environment, with support from professional Capcom developers1. The competition spans a six-month period, during which teams will assign roles based on real-life game creator jobs.

Why I believe this MATTERS

Capcom’s initiative is significant for several reasons:

  1. Industry Growth: By providing students with access to a high-quality game development engine, Capcom is fostering the next generation of game developers. This helps to ensure a steady influx of skilled talent into the industry.
  2. Innovation: The RE Engine is known for its advanced capabilities, and by allowing students to use it, Capcom is encouraging innovation and experimentation in game development.
  3. Commercial Opportunities: Winners of the competition will receive game production support and an opportunity for commercialization. This not only benefits the students but also adds new, creative titles to the gaming market.
  4. Educational Collaboration: The competition strengthens the relationship between the gaming industry and educational institutions, promoting research and development in game design and technology.

Capcom’s commitment to nurturing talent and advancing game development technology through this competition is a positive step for the entire gaming industry. It highlights the importance of collaboration, innovation, and education in driving the industry forward.