Tag Archives: Games

Events, Featured, Gaming, Hardware/Console, News, PC

The battleground for Mid-rage GPUs by Nvidia and AMD at Computex 2025

Computex 2025 has been a battleground for the latest mid-range graphics cards, with NVIDIA unveiling the RTX 5060 and RTX 5060 Ti, while AMD countered with the Radeon RX 9060 XT. Both companies are vying for dominance in the competitive mid-range segment, offering improved performance, AI-driven enhancements, and aggressive pricing.

NVIDIA’s RTX 5060 & RTX 5060 Ti: The Green Team’s Mid-Range Push

NVIDIA’s RTX 5060 comes in at an attractive $299 price point, targeting gamers who want solid 1080p and 1440p performance without breaking the bank. The RTX 5060 Ti, on the other hand, offers higher clock speeds and improved AI acceleration, with 8GB and 16GB GDDR7 memory options priced at $379 and $429, respectively.

Key features of the RTX 5060 series include:

  • DLSS 4 for AI-enhanced upscaling and frame generation.
  • Ray tracing improvements with optimized cores.
  • PCIe 5.0 support for faster data transfer.
  • Lower power consumption compared to previous generations.

While NVIDIA’s DLSS 4 continues to be a major selling point, early benchmarks suggest that the RTX 5060 Ti struggles at higher resolutions, especially when compared to AMD’s latest offering.

AMD’s Radeon RX 9060 XT: A Strong Challenger

AMD’s RX 9060 XT is positioned as a direct competitor to the RTX 5060 and 5060 Ti, boasting RDNA 4 architecture and FSR 4 enhancements. Available in 8GB and 16GB configurations, the RX 9060 XT starts at $299, with the 16GB version priced at $349.

AMD’s key advantages:

  • FSR 4 Redstone introduces Neural Radiance Caching and ML-assisted frame generation.
  • Higher clock speeds at 3.13 GHz, outperforming the RTX 5060 Ti in raw processing power.
  • PCIe 5.0 and DisplayPort 2.1a support for future-proofing.
  • Better performance-per-dollar, with AMD claiming a 15% advantage over the RTX 5060 Ti.

AMD’s RX 9060 XT is designed to maximize 1440p gaming, with FSR 4 promising smoother frame rates and enhanced ray tracing capabilities. The 16GB version is reportedly 6% faster than the RTX 5060 Ti, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious gamers.

While NVIDIA’s RTX 5060 Ti has faced stock shortages, AMD’s RX 9060 XT is expected to have a more stable supply, potentially giving Team Red an edge in availability. Both GPUs will be available from major board partners, including ASUS, Gigabyte, PowerColor, and Sapphire.

With FSR 4 expanding to over 60 titles by launch, AMD is making a strong case for its AI-driven enhancements, while NVIDIA continues to push DLSS 4 as the gold standard for upscaling.

Computex 2025 has set the stage for an intense mid-range GPU showdown. NVIDIA’s RTX 5060 series brings DLSS 4 and ray tracing improvements, but AMD’s RX 9060 XT counters with FSR 4, higher clock speeds, and better pricing. With early benchmarks favoring AMD’s offering, gamers will have a tough choice between Team Green’s AI-driven performance and Team Red’s raw power and affordability.

Which GPU will reign supreme? Only time—and real-world testing—will tell.

Games, Gaming, News

Shift Up confirms Stellar Blade sequel development

Fans of Stellar Blade, rejoice! South Korean developer Shift Up has officially confirmed that a sequel to the critically acclaimed action RPG is in development. The news comes as part of a financial presentation shared on May 20, 2025, where the studio outlined its future plans, including the highly anticipated follow-up to Stellar Blade.

Shift Up’s financial roadmap revealed that the Stellar Blade sequel is scheduled for release before 2027. While details remain scarce, the confirmation alone is enough to excite fans who have been eagerly awaiting news on the franchise’s future. The studio also announced plans to expand the game’s reach across multiple platforms, hinting at a broader audience beyond its original PlayStation 5 exclusivity.

What to Expect from Stellar Blade 2

Although Shift Up has yet to disclose specific gameplay details, the sequel is expected to build upon the success of the first installment, which sold over two million copies by February 2025. The original game was praised for its fast-paced combat, stunning visuals, and engaging narrative, and fans are hopeful that the sequel will refine and expand upon these elements.

Additionally, Shift Up is working on another major project, Project Witches, a AAA action-RPG slated for release in 2027. This suggests that the studio is doubling down on its commitment to delivering high-quality gaming experiences.

Before the sequel arrives, Stellar Blade is set to launch on PC on June 11, 2025. This version will introduce new content, unlocked framerates, and platform-specific features, making it an exciting prospect for players who missed out on the original PlayStation release. However, the PC version has faced some controversy due to region-locking issues on Steam, affecting availability in over 120 countries.

With Stellar Blade’s sequel officially in development, fans can look forward to another thrilling adventure in Shift Up’s sci-fi universe. While details remain limited, the confirmation alone is a promising sign that the franchise is here to stay. As we await further updates, one thing is certain—Eve’s journey is far from over.

Stay tuned for more updates as Shift Up reveals additional details about Stellar Blade 2 and its future projects!

Breaking, Games, Gaming, Mobile, News

The return of Fortnite to your iPhone & iPad is official

After nearly five years of absence, Fortnite is finally making its way back to iOS. This marks a significant moment in the ongoing battle between Epic Games and Apple, a dispute that reshaped the conversation around app store policies, developer rights, and digital marketplaces. But what does this mean for gamers, and how will Fortnite’s return impact the mobile gaming landscape?

The Long Road Back: A Legal Battle for Control

Fortnite was removed from the Apple App Store in August 2020 after Epic Games introduced a direct payment system that bypassed Apple’s in-app purchase fees. This move led to a legal showdown, with Epic accusing Apple of monopolistic practices and Apple defending its ecosystem control. The battle raged on for years, with courts weighing in on whether Apple’s policies were fair or restrictive.

A recent U.S. court ruling found Apple in violation of a previous injunction, forcing the company to allow developers to direct users to alternative payment systems. This decision paved the way for Epic Games to resubmit Fortnite for App Store approval, signaling its imminent return that actually occurred.

Early this week, Epic Games via CEO Tim Sweeney revealed they asked the court to request Apple their rationale about withholding Fortnite approval despite an order that they should not continue with the behavior that started it all and that despite Apple was appealing the decision, Apple was denied to upheld the original order.

With the re-entry of Fortnite at the App Store, it seems that Apple is not too willingly to keep defying courts on their playing of interpretation of law and orders, at least for now.

How to Download Fortnite on iOS

Once Fortnite is officially back, players will have two primary ways to install the game:

  1. Via the App Store – Search for “Fortnite” and tap the “Get” button to begin downloading.
  2. Through the Epic Games Store – In regions where alternative app stores are allowed, players may be able to download Fortnite via Epic’s own platform.

Fortnite’s return to iOS is more than just a win for Epic Games—it’s a major shift in the mobile gaming industry. The ruling that forced Apple to allow external payment links could set a precedent for other developers seeking more control over their revenue streams. This could lead to greater competition, lower fees, and more choices for consumers.

Additionally, Fortnite’s comeback could revitalize mobile esports, bringing back competitive tournaments and events that were previously limited due to platform restrictions.

While iPhone users can celebrate Fortnite’s return, Mac gamers are still left in limbo. Apple terminated Epic’s ability to develop Fortnite for macOS in 2020, and the game has not received updates on the platform since. For now, Mac users will have to rely on cloud gaming services like GeForce NOW or Xbox Cloud Gaming to play Fortnite.

Fortnite’s return to iOS is a monumental moment for mobile gaming, signaling a shift in how digital marketplaces operate. Whether this leads to broader changes in app store policies remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Fortnite fans on iPhone are about to drop back into the battle royale once again.

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Games, Gaming, News

The latest on Marathon is hard to ignore despite being just rumors

Bungie’s upcoming extraction shooter, Marathon, has been the subject of intense speculation and controversy in recent weeks. From plagiarism accusations to internal morale issues, the studio appears to be navigating a turbulent period. Here’s a deep dive into the latest rumors and developments surrounding the game.

One of the biggest scandals to hit Bungie recently involves allegations of art plagiarism. Digital artist ANTIREAL accused Bungie of using her 2017 artwork in Marathon’s closed alpha without permission. Bungie admitted to the issue, attributing it to a former employee, and pledged to “do the right thing” for the artist. However, this marks the fourth reported plagiarism incident in five years, raising concerns about the studio’s art direction.

Internal Morale at an All-Time Low And Marathon being delayed

Reports indicate that employee morale at Bungie is at an all-time low, with developers worried about Marathon’s future. The studio has reportedly canceled its planned June marketing campaign, including a new trailer and pre-order launch. Additionally, the August open beta has been replaced with a series of smaller playtests, suggesting uncertainty about the game’s readiness.

While Bungie has not officially announced a delay, rumors suggest that Sony and Bungie executives are discussing pushing the game’s release to 2026. The mixed feedback from the closed alpha, where players described the game as “flat,” has fueled speculation that the studio may need more time to refine the experience.

Bungie’s acquisition by Sony for $3.6 billion was expected to bring stability, but recent events have cast doubt on the studio’s trajectory. Some developers fear that if Marathon fails, it could jeopardize Bungie’s future, especially after the Concord disaster.

Marathon was initially positioned as Bungie’s next big project after Destiny, but the negative reception, plagiarism scandal, and internal struggles have raised serious concerns. Whether Bungie can turn things around remains to be seen, but for now, the future of Marathon—and Bungie itself—appears uncertain.

Bungie Leadership Ignored Marathon Devs’ Repeated Warnings and PvE Requests, New Report Says
A new report reveals Bungie’s top leadership ignored repeated warnings and PvE requests from Marathon developers for years.
Source/Via
Games, Gaming, News

What’s next after Death Stranding 2:On The Beach for Kojima Productions

Hideo Kojima, the legendary creator behind Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding, has officially revealed his next major project: Physint. This upcoming espionage game, described as a “next-generation action espionage experience,” is set to take at least five to six years to develop. While Kojima Productions is currently focused on Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, Kojima has already begun laying the groundwork for what could be his most ambitious stealth-action title yet.

Since parting ways with Konami in 2015, Kojima has explored new storytelling avenues, but fans have long hoped for a return to his espionage roots. Physint appears to be the answer to those expectations. Announced during a PlayStation State of Play event in January 2024, the game promises to push the boundaries of stealth-action gameplay while incorporating Kojima’s signature cinematic storytelling.

Kojima has stated that Physint will take several years to develop, emphasizing his commitment to crafting a truly groundbreaking experience. He has also hinted at his growing interest in filmmaking, suggesting that once Death Stranding 2 and Physint are complete, he may finally pursue directing a movie—a lifelong dream of his.

What to Expect from Physint

While details remain scarce, Kojima has described Physint as a project that will elevate digital entertainment to a new level. He has emphasized that the game’s story, theme, cast, acting, fashion, and sound will all be designed with a cinematic approach, blurring the lines between film and interactive storytelling.

The Future of Kojima Productions

Beyond Physint, Kojima Productions is also working on OD, a mysterious horror game in collaboration with Xbox Game Studios. With multiple ambitious projects in development, Kojima continues to redefine the gaming landscape, proving that his creative vision remains as bold as ever.

As we await more details on Physint, one thing is certain—Kojima is once again poised to challenge industry norms and deliver an experience unlike anything we’ve seen before.

Le film français : le premier magazine web des professionnels de l’audiovisuel
le premier magazine web des professionnels de l’audiovisuel – Le film français
Source/Via
Games, Gaming, News, PC

Final Fantasy XI being alive is thanks to their fans

For over two decades, Final Fantasy XI has stood as a testament to the enduring power of community-driven gaming. Originally launched in 2002, the MMORPG was a groundbreaking entry in the Final Fantasy franchise, offering players an expansive world filled with adventure, camaraderie, and deep lore. However, as time passed and newer titles emerged, the game faced the looming threat of closure. In a surprising turn of events, it was the unwavering dedication of its fanbase that ultimately kept Final Fantasy XI alive.

A Planned Farewell That Never Came

According to Final Fantasy XI director Yoji Fujito, Square Enix had been preparing to end support for the game’s PC version in 2024, following the conclusion of its Voracious Resurgence storyline. The company even considered shutting down the game entirely due to aging servers. The plan was to transition the game into “maintenance mode,” meaning no new content would be added, and only system upkeep would be performed.

Despite these plans, something remarkable happened—players continued to log in, maintaining the same monthly subscription fee of $11.95 since the game’s launch. Their enthusiasm and dedication sent a clear message to Square Enix: Final Fantasy XI was far from losing momentum. Seeing this, the developers decided to keep the game running, ensuring that the world of Vana’diel remained alive and thriving.

New Updates and a Bright Future

Instead of winding down operations, Square Enix surprised the community by announcing fresh updates for Final Fantasy XI. These include:

  • A new high-tier mission battlefield to challenge veteran players.
  • Gamepad configuration adjustments for smoother gameplay.
  • A new Morale gauge to enhance combat mechanics.
  • The ability to change a character’s race, offering more customization.
  • Expanded content for the Limbus battle system, adding depth to the game’s strategic elements.

The resilience of Final Fantasy XI is a testament to the power of its community. In an era where many MMORPGs struggle to maintain player engagement, this classic title has defied expectations. Even Final Fantasy XIV, the franchise’s modern MMO, acknowledged its predecessor by introducing a crossover Alliance Raid series that transports players to Vana’diel.

As long as players continue to explore its vast world, battle formidable foes, and forge lasting friendships, Final Fantasy XI will remain more than just a game—it will be a legacy!

Square Enix considered ending Final Fantasy 11 in 2024, but player interest was high enough to keep it alive even after 20+ years – AUTOMATON WEST
According to Final Fantasy 11 producer and director Yoji Fujito, the MMORPG could have ended support or even shut down completely.
Source/Via
Breaking, Featured, Games, Gaming, News

Activision Confirms Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile Will Sunset

In a surprising move, Activision has announced that Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile will be removed from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store on May 18, 2025. This decision comes just over a year after the mobile version of the popular battle royale game was launched in March 2024.

Activision revealed that the game did not meet expectations with mobile-first players, despite its success on PC and console. While the company expressed pride in bringing Warzone to mobile, it acknowledged that the experience did not resonate as strongly with mobile gamers as anticipated.

What Happens Next?

Although new downloads will no longer be possible after May 18, players who already have the game installed will still be able to access servers and matchmaking for online play. However, social features are being retired, and purchases of Call of Duty Points or Black Cell have been disabled.

Activision has also confirmed that future Warzone content will not be available in Warzone Mobile, meaning players will not receive updates or new features. Additionally, refunds will not be offered for purchases made within the game.

While Warzone Mobile is winding down, Activision is encouraging players to transition to Call of Duty: Mobile, offering special incentives for Warzone Mobile players who try out the alternative title.

The company has hinted that its Warzone Mobile teams are moving forward on other projects, though no details have been shared yet.

The decision to sunset Warzone Mobile marks the end of an ambitious attempt to bring the Call of Duty: Warzone experience to mobile devices. While some players may be disappointed, Activision appears to be refocusing its efforts on other mobile gaming initiatives.

For those who still want to play, make sure to download the game before May 18—because after that, it will no longer be available.

Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile Service Changes
Important Information about Service Changes for Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile
Source/Via
Games, Gaming, News

The legacy of Hideo Kojima at a 64 USB Drive of distance!

Hideo Kojima, the legendary game designer behind Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding, has always been known for his visionary approach to storytelling and game development. But what happens when a visionary like Kojima is no longer around to guide his studio?

He has already thought about that—and his answer is as unconventional as his games: a 64GB USB drive filled with ideas for Kojima Productions to carry on after his death.

As Kojima said during it’s interview with Edge for its 411 isse, the decision to create this digital vault of ideas stems from a deeply personal realization. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he fell seriously ill and underwent an eye operation. This experience forced him to confront his own mortality. Until then, he had assumed he would be able to create for as long as he lived, but the illness made him question how much time he had left.

In an interview, Kojima revealed that this existential reflection led him to prepare for the future of his studio. He didn’t want Kojima Productions to simply manage existing intellectual properties (Metal Gear, Death Stranding, etc.)—he wanted them to continue creating. So, he compiled his ideas onto a USB drive and handed it to his personal assistant, describing it as “kind of like a will”.

What’s Inside the USB Drive?

While Kojima hasn’t disclosed the exact contents of the USB drive, we can speculate based on his past projects and creative tendencies. Here’s what might be inside:

  • Game Concepts – Kojima is known for pushing boundaries in gaming. The USB likely contains ideas for new franchises, gameplay mechanics, and experimental storytelling techniques.
  • Narrative Structures – Kojima’s games often feature intricate plots with deep philosophical themes. His notes may include outlines for future stories that explore topics like memory, identity, and human connection.
  • Technological Innovations – Kojima has always embraced cutting-edge technology, from motion capture to AI-driven storytelling. His USB could contain ideas for integrating emerging tech into gaming.
  • Film & Multimedia Projects – Kojima has expressed interest in filmmaking. The USB might include concepts for movies, TV series, or interactive media that blend gaming with cinematic storytelling.

I gave a USB stick with all my ideas on it to my personal assistant – kind of like a will.

Perhaps they could continue to make things after I’m gone, here at Kojima Productions… This is a fear for me – what happens to Kojima Productions after I’m gone. I don’t want them to just manage our existing IP.

The Future of Kojima Productions

With Kojima’s ideas preserved in digital form, Kojima Productions has the potential to continue evolving long after its founder is gone. However, the real challenge will be interpreting and executing his vision. Kojima’s creative process is deeply personal, and his unique approach to storytelling is difficult to replicate.

Will Kojima Productions split into factions debating the true meaning of his ideas? Will they create games that feel authentically Kojima-esque, or will they forge a new identity? Only time will tell.

One thing is certain: Kojima’s influence on gaming will endure, whether through his own creations or the ideas he has left behind.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

Bungie Responds to Plagiarism Allegations in Marathon

The gaming industry is no stranger to controversy, but Bungie’s latest challenge comes from an unexpected corner—an independent artist who claims that the studio’s upcoming extraction shooter, Marathon, has incorporated their artwork without permission. The artist, known as 4nt1r34l, took to social media to express frustration over what they describe as blatant plagiarism of their designs, which date back to 2017.

The Allegations

The controversy erupted when 4nt1r34l posted side-by-side comparisons of their original poster designs and in-game assets from Marathon’s closed alpha. The similarities were striking, leading to widespread discussion among the gaming community. The artist lamented that this was not the first time a major studio had used their work without credit or compensation, stating that they had struggled for years to make a living while large companies profited off their designs.

Bungie’s Response

In a swift reaction, Bungie acknowledged the issue and confirmed that a former employee had included unauthorized assets in a texture sheet used in the game. The studio emphasized that the current art team was unaware of the oversight and assured the community that they were investigating how this happened. Bungie also reached out to 4nt1r34l directly, expressing their commitment to resolving the matter and ensuring proper credit and compensation.

This incident raises broader concerns about artistic integrity in the gaming industry. Independent artists often struggle to protect their work, and cases like this highlight the need for stricter oversight and ethical practices in game development. Bungie has pledged to conduct a thorough review of all in-game assets to prevent similar issues in the future, reinforcing their stance on respecting artists and their contributions.

While the situation remains fluid, Bungie’s prompt response has been met with cautious optimism. Many hope that this will lead to better protections for artists and a more transparent approach to asset creation in the gaming world.

Games, Gaming, News, 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.