Tag Archives: Gaming News

Games, Gaming, News, PC

The Sims Legacy Collection 1 & 2 is yet another blast from the gaming past

The Sims and The Sims 2 have officially made their return, much to the delight of fans worldwide. To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the beloved life simulation series, EA has re-released both games in special Legacy Collections on platforms like Steam, the Epic Games Store, and the EA app.

The The Sims Legacy Collection includes the original The Sims game along with several expansion packs and stuff packs. Here’s what you can expect:

  • The Sims: The base game that started it all.
  • Livin’ Large: Adds new objects, characters, and gameplay elements.
  • House Party: Introduces party-related items and activities.
  • Hot Date: Focuses on romantic interactions and new locations.
  • Vacation: Adds vacation destinations and related items.
  • Unleashed: Brings pets into the game.
  • Superstar: Adds fame and celebrity elements.
  • Makin’ Magic: Introduces magic and spellcasting.
  • Throwback Fit Kit: A bonus pack from The Sims 4, adding retro-themed clothing.

The The Sims 2 Legacy Collection includes the sequel The Sims 2 along with its numerous expansions and stuff packs. Here’s what’s included:

  • The Sims 2: The base game that expanded on the original’s success.
  • University: Adds a university campus and related gameplay elements.
  • Nightlife: Focuses on nightlife and social interactions.
  • Open for Business: Introduces business and commerce elements.
  • Pets: Adds pets and pet-related gameplay.
  • Bon Voyage: Adds vacation destinations.
  • Seasons: Introduces weather and seasonal changes.
  • FreeTime: Adds hobbies and leisure activities.
  • Apartment Life: Adds apartment buildings and related gameplay.
  • Holiday Party Pack: Adds holiday-themed items.
  • Family Fun Stuff: Adds family-related items.
  • Glamour Life Stuff: Adds glamorous items.
  • Happy Holiday Stuff: Adds holiday-themed items.
  • Celebration! Stuff: Adds celebration-themed items.
  • H&M Fashion Stuff: Adds fashion items from H&M.
  • Teen Style Stuff: Adds teen fashion items.
  • Kitchen & Bath Interior Design Stuff: Adds kitchen and bathroom items.
  • Mansion & Garden Stuff: Adds mansion and garden items.
  • Grunge Revival Kit: A bonus pack from The Sims 4, adding grunge-themed clothing.
    (For those who remembers, IKEA expansion is absent as probably either EA could not get into an licensing agreement for decoration designs or maybe is not interested on sharing profits to IKEA)

The The Sims Legacy Collection is priced at $20, while the The Sims 2 Legacy Collection is priced at $30. For those who want both, there’s a 25th Birthday Bundle available for $40, saving you $8. These collections are available on Windows 10 and 11, and you can transfer old save files and mods from the original games.

While these collections aren’t remasters, they offer a nostalgic trip back to the early 2000s with all the expansions and stuff packs included. The games have been updated to run on modern systems, but don’t expect major visual or gameplay improvements. It’s all about reliving the magic and simplicity of the original games.

Breaking, Featured, Games, Gaming, News

Season 5 will be the “good-bye” from MultiVersus

Depending on how you see it, this will come either a surprise or something to be on the expectations and is that WB Games confirmed that MultiVersus servers will be shutdown on May 30, 2025, officializing Season 5 as the final public season.

This decision marks the end of an era for a game that brought together beloved characters from various Warner Bros. franchises in an exciting crossover brawler, at least in online mode that is.

Honestly, MultiVersus started with a lot of promise. Its open beta period saw a surge in popularity, with fans eagerly anticipating its official launch4. However, despite the initial excitement, the game struggled to maintain its player base. The official launch in May 2024 was met with mixed reviews, and the game’s performance fell short of expectations.

Warner Bros. Discovery reported significant financial losses due to underperforming releases, including MultiVersus. The game’s disappointing performance led to a $100 million writedown, contributing to a total of $300 million in losses for the company’s games sector.

This financial strain played a major role in the decision to discontinue support for MultiVersus.

Season 5, which begins on February 4, 2025, will be the game’s last content update. The season will introduce two new playable characters, Aquaman and Lola Bunny, adding a final burst of excitement for fans. Players will have the opportunity to unlock these characters through gameplay, with Aquaman available via the battle pass and Lola Bunny as a daily login reward.

After May 30, 2025, MultiVersus will no longer be playable online. However, players will still be able to enjoy the game offline via local gameplay mode, either solo against AI opponents or with up to three friends1. To access this mode, players must log in during Season 5 to create a local save file.

Additionally, the game will be delisted from digital storefronts such as the PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, Steam, and Epic Games Store.

We have an important update to share regarding MultiVersus. After careful consideration, our next Season will serve as the final seasonal content update for the game. MultiVersus Season 5 will begin on February 4, 2025, and run through May 30, 2025, adding two new playable characters to the roster – DC’s Aquaman and Looney Tunes’ Lola Bunny. All new Season 5 content, including Aquaman and Lola Bunny, will be earnable through gameplay. Both new characters will be accessible when Season 5 begins on February 4 at 9 a.m. PST – Aquaman via the Battle Pass as the first tier reward and Lola as the daily calendar login reward.​

All online features will continue to be available until Season 5 concludes on May 30 at 9 a.m. PST. At that point, there will be an option to play MultiVersusoffline via the local gameplay mode, either solo against A.I. opponents or with up to three friends. To do this, you’ll need to install/download the latest version of the game and log in during Season 5, any time between February 4 at 9 a.m. PST and May 30 at 9 a.m. PST. After logging in, a local save file will be automatically created connected to your PlayStation Network, Microsoft Store, Steam, or Epic Games Store account, allowing you to enjoy the game offline with all earned and purchased content moving forward.​

As of today, January 31, real money transactions will no longer be available for MultiVersus, which means you can no longer purchase Gleamium, but you can still use remaining Gleamium or character tokens to access in-game content until Season 5 ends on May 30 at 9 a.m. PST. Additionally, when Season 5 finishes, the game will no longer be available to download via the PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, Steam, or Epic Games Store.​

Most importantly, we want to thank every player and person who has ever played or supported MultiVersus. All of us on the Player First Games and Warner Bros. Games teams have poured our heart and soul into this game. We will be forever grateful for the incredible support of the MultiVersus community throughout this journey.​

We hope that you all enjoy the final Season of MultiVersus. For more information, please visit our Season 5 FAQ or follow our social/community channels. ​

–The MultiVersus Team​

While it’s sad to see MultiVersus come to an end, its journey has been a testament to the power of community and collaboration. The game may have faced challenges, but it brought joy to many fans and created memorable experiences, despite WB Games’ mismanagement.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

Q3 2024 for Konami is official in middle of Metal Gear Delta: Snake Eater 3 release’s expectations

Konami Group Corporation recently announced its financial results for the third quarter of fiscal year 2025, covering the period from April to December 2024. The company reported impressive growth across its business segments, with a notable increase in revenue and profit (numbers converted on US dollar equivalents).

  • Revenue: $2.00 billion, up 22.8% year-on-year.
  • Business Profit: $560 million, up 38.7% year-on-year.
  • Operating Profit: $557 million, up 45.5% year-on-year.
  • Profit for the Period: $410 million, up 41.8% year-on-year.

The strong performance was driven by the success of titles such as Silent Hill 2 and eFootball, which exceeded sales expectations and contributed significantly to the company’s digital entertainment segment.

Now Konami expects to end the fiscal year in March with $2.66 billion in revenue, $696 million in business profit, and $645 million in operating profit. This is significantly higher compared to the previous prediction of $2.45 billion, $597 million, and $545 million respectively.

Only time will tell if Konami nails that outlook.

Expectations for Metal Gear Solid Delta 3: Snake Eater

One of the most anticipated releases from Konami is the remake of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, now titled Metal Gear Solid Delta 3: Snake Eater. This remake has generated a lot of excitement among fans and industry experts alike.

Here are some of the key expectations for the game:

  1. Camouflage System Remastered: The original game’s camouflage system was a standout feature, allowing players to blend into their surroundings. Fans are hoping for an even more immersive and visually enhanced version in the remake.
  2. Better Movement: The original game’s movement mechanics were somewhat clunky, and players are looking forward to smoother and more responsive controls.
  3. Refined Close-Quarters Combat (CQC): The melee combat system in the original game was considered one of its weaker points. The remake is expected to feature a more refined and satisfying CQC system.
  4. Improved Survival System: The survival elements of the game, such as hunting and crafting, are expected to be enhanced to provide a more engaging experience.

Konami’s Q3 2025 financial results showcase the company’s strong performance and growth potential. With the highly anticipated release of Metal Gear Solid Delta 3: Snake Eater, fans and investors alike have high hopes for the future. The success of this game could further solidify Konami’s position in the gaming industry and drive even greater financial success in the coming quarters.

Games, Gaming, Playstation

Microsoft Announces Forza Horizon 5 for PS5: Literally New Horizon getting explored

In a surprising move and a new teaching of NEVER SAY NEVER, Microsoft has announced that Forza Horizon 5, the beloved open-world racing game, is coming to PlayStation 5 this Spring. Developed by Playground Games and Turn 10 Studios, with Panic Button handling the port, this marks a significant shift in Microsoft’s strategy as it embraces a multi-platform approach.

Forza Horizon 5 has been a flagship title for Xbox and PC since its release in 2021, offering players an expansive open-world experience set in the vibrant landscapes of Mexico. With the announcement of its PS5 port, PlayStation users will finally get to experience the thrill of the Horizon Festival.

The PS5 version of Forza Horizon 5 will be feature-complete, including all previously released DLC packs such as the Hot Wheels and Rally Adventure expansions. Players can look forward to the same content as the Xbox and PC versions, with nearly 900 cars and over 40 thematic game updates.

One of the most exciting aspects of this announcement is the inclusion of cross-play functionality. Players on PS5, Xbox, and PC will be able to join the same multiplayer sessions, ensuring that no one misses out on the best road trips and convoys4. Additionally, a new free content update called Horizon Realms will be introduced, featuring a curated collection of community favorite Evolving Worlds.

The developers at Playground Games are thrilled to see the Forza Horizon 5 community grow with new players on PS5. They are eager to see the creativity and skill that new creators, builders, and racers will bring to the vibrant community. This move is expected to attract a wave of new players to the game, enriching the experience for everyone.

Looking Ahead

While no specific release date has been confirmed beyond the Spring 2025 window, fans can already wishlist the game on the PlayStation Store to stay informed about updates and release times. This announcement sets a precedent for more Xbox titles potentially making their way to PlayStation, making 2025 an exciting year for gamers across platforms.

Gaming, News, PC

Intel closed the year with a deep dive

Intel Corporation recently released its Q4 2024 earnings report, providing insights into its financial performance and future outlook. Here’s a detailed analysis of the key points from the report:

Intel reported $14.3 billion in revenue for Q4 2024, a 7% decrease year-over-year. The company’s gross margin was 39.2%, down from 45.7% in Q4 2023. Despite the decline, Intel managed to achieve adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.13, slightly above Wall Street’s consensus estimate of $0.12.

Full-Year Results

For the full year 2024, Intel reported $53.1 billion in revenue, a 2% decrease compared to 2023. The company’s full-year gross margin was 32.7%, down from 40.0% in 2023. Intel’s full-year EPS was a loss of $4.38, compared to a loss of $0.13 on a non-GAAP basis.

Understandably, Intel provided a cautious outlook for Q1 2025, forecasting revenue between $11.7 billion and $12.7 billion. The company expects first-quarter EPS to be a loss of $0.27 on a GAAP basis and $0.00 on a non-GAAP basis. This outlook reflects seasonal weakness, macroeconomic uncertainties, and competitive dynamics1.

Intel’s interim co-CEOs, David Zinsner and Michelle Johnston Holthaus, highlighted the company’s renewed focus on strengthening and simplifying its product portfolio and progress on its process roadmap. They emphasized the importance of cost reduction and efficiency to enhance Intel’s competitive position and create shareholder value.

Market Reaction

Following the earnings report, Intel’s stock experienced volatility. Investors were disappointed by the softer-than-expected revenue forecast for Q1 2025, and there was no update on the search for a permanent CEO2. The company’s stock price fluctuated as analysts and investors weighed the implications of the report.

Intel’s Q4 2024 earnings report reflects a challenging period for the company, marked by declining revenue and margins. However, the company’s focus on cost reduction and efficiency, along with its strategic initiatives, provides a foundation for future growth. Investors will be closely watching Intel’s progress in the coming quarters to see if the company can navigate the current challenges and return to profitability.

Business, Gaming, News

Apple star its Fiscal Year 2025 with Record-Breaking Earnings and Gaming Performance

Apple recently announced its Q1 2025 earnings, revealing record-breaking revenue of $124.3 billion, a 4% increase year-over-year. The company also reported a net quarterly profit of $36.3 billion, with earnings per share (EPS) reaching $2.40, up 10% from the previous year. This marks Apple’s best quarter ever, driven by strong sales across its product and services lineup.

Key Highlights from Apple’s Earnings Report:

  • Revenue: $124.3 billion (up 4% year-over-year)
  • Net Profit: $36.3 billion
  • EPS: $2.40 (up 10% year-over-year)
  • Services Revenue: $26.3 billion (up 13.9% year-over-year)
  • Mac Revenue: $9.0 billion (up 15.5% year-over-year)
  • iPad Revenue: $8.1 billion (up 15.2% year-over-year)
  • iPhone Revenue: $69.1 billion (down 0.8% year-over-year)
  • Wearables Revenue: $11.7 billion (down 1.7% year-over-year)

Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, highlighted the company’s success in integrating AI into its devices, which has helped maintain strong performance despite market challenges. The company’s new AI product, Apple Intelligence, has been a significant focus, although it has faced some criticism for inaccuracies.

Of course, this is a gaming blog, let’s focus on Apple Arcade’s Performance:

Apple Arcade, the company’s subscription-based gaming service, has seen impressive growth and positive reception. As of February 2024, Apple Arcade has 7% of gamers in the United States subscribed to the service. Some of the standout games on Apple Arcade include:

  1. Oceanhorn 2: Knights of the Lost Realm: A Zelda-like adventure game with immersive gameplay and excellent controller support.
  2. Sonic Racing: A kart racing game that runs smoothly at native resolution.
  3. Marble Knights: An isometric game with good performance and controller support.
  4. The Pathless: A visually stunning game with resolution issues but captivating gameplay.
  5. Asphalt 8: Airborne+: A highly impressive racing game with consistent 60 FPS performance.

Apple Arcade has been praised for its diverse library of games and the quality of its titles, making it a strong competitor in the mobile gaming market.

Despite its successes, Apple faces challenges, including declining phone sales in China and competition from domestic brands like Huawei. The company’s ability to navigate these challenges while continuing to innovate in AI and gaming will be crucial for its future growth.

Apple’s commitment to enhancing its gaming ecosystem through Apple Arcade and integrating AI into its devices positions the company well for continued success in the tech and gaming industries.

Breaking, Featured, Games, Gaming, News

The Video Game History Foundation launches its public digital library

As previously announced back on January 24th, 2025, The Video Game History Foundation has launched the public release of its digital library. This digital library is the result of years of meticulous collecting, cataloging, and digitizing video game history materials.

The library will feature a vast array of materials, including promotional artwork, game development materials, press kits, and over 1,500 out-of-print video game magazines. These magazines will be fully text-searchable, making it easier for researchers and enthusiasts to explore the history of video games.

The digital library will be accessible to the public, allowing anyone to explore its collections from anywhere in the world. This is a significant step forward in making video game history more accessible and preserving it for future generations.

Starting today, the public can access the digital library through the VGHF’s website. The foundation encourages donations to support its ongoing efforts to preserve and celebrate video game history.

A highlight for the current collections are:

  • Searchable directories and maps from the first 12 years of the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3).
  • An impressive extensive international collection of FromSoftware promotional materials, which was collected by citizen archivist Kris Urquhart and actually FromSoftware donating content.
  • 100 CDs of art and press releases from the classic GamePro magazine.
  • Over 100 hours of footage from the production of the Myst series, including never-before-seen interviews with the Cyan team.
  • The Mark Flitman papers or set of documents collected over the course of Flitman’s career at video game publishers like Konami, Acclaim, Atari, and more.

For those who doesn’t know (and should know), The Video Game History Foundation was founded in 2017 by game preservationist and historian Frank Cifaldi, with the mission to preserve, celebrate, and teach the history of video games. The foundation relies on donations to build its archives and has been working tirelessly to make these resources accessible to the public.

Recently, the VGHF has been vocal about its criticism of the US Copyright Office’s refusal to grant an exemption that would allow researchers to remotely access out-of-print video games. Despite this setback, the foundation has continued its efforts to make video game history more accessible.

Here is the link: https://archive.gamehistory.org/

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

The Division 2 newest expansion Battle For Brooklyn delayed yet again

Ubisoft recently confirmed the delay of the highly anticipated expansion for The Division 2, titled Battle For Brooklyn. Initially scheduled for release in February 2025, the expansion has now been postponed to June 2025. This marks the third delay for the Brooklyn DLC, with the developers citing the need for extra time to refine the content and ensure it meets their high standards.

The announcement of Battle For Brooklyn came during Ubisoft’s annual gaming event, where the developers showcased a teaser trailer for the expansion.

The trailer highlighted the gritty urban setting of Brooklyn, with stunning visuals of the iconic borough’s landmarks, such as the Brooklyn Bridge and the bustling streets of Williamsburg. The teaser also hinted at new factions, powerful enemies, and a gripping narrative that will keep players on the edge of their seats.

The backstory of Battle For Brooklyn revolves around the struggle for control of the borough in the aftermath of a devastating event. Players will take on the role of Division agents tasked with restoring order and protecting the citizens of Brooklyn from various threats. The narrative will explore themes of resilience, community, and the fight for survival in a post-apocalyptic world.

It is expected that Battle For Brooklyn introduces several new gameplay features that are sure to enhance the player experience. One of the most exciting additions is the new faction, The Brooklyn Resistance, which will provide players with unique missions and story arcs. The faction is led by a charismatic leader who has a deep connection to the borough and its history.

Players can also expect new weapons, gear, and abilities tailored to the urban environment of Brooklyn. The expansion will feature a variety of new weapons, including a series of high-tech gadgets and firearms designed specifically for the dense urban landscape. Additionally, new abilities will allow players to navigate the city more effectively, such as enhanced parkour moves and specialized combat skills.

The new release date for Battle For Brooklyn is expected to be sometime in June 2025, aligning with the game’s yearly cycle. The community’s reaction to the announcement has been overwhelmingly positive, with many fans expressing excitement and anticipation for the new content1. Ubisoft has promised that Battle For Brooklyn will be worth the wait, with its rich storyline, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals.

The Division 2: Battle For Brooklyn is set to be a game-changer for the franchise, offering players a new and immersive experience in the heart of New York City. With its compelling storyline, new gameplay features, and vibrant setting, this expansion is sure to captivate both new and veteran players alike1. As we eagerly await its release, the anticipation continues to build, and the excitement among the community grows stronger by the day.

Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

PlayStation Plus Essential February 2025 Collection announced with a ‘One more thing’

PlayStation Plus Essential subscribers have a lot to look forward to in February 2025! The lineup includes three exciting titles:

  1. Payday 3 (PS5): Dive back into the high-stakes world of heists with the Payday Gang. This cooperative first-person shooter offers thrilling gameplay for up to four players.
  2. High on Life (PS5, PS4): Fresh out of high school with no job and no ambition, you’re suddenly thrust into an intergalactic adventure. Join a team of charismatic talking guns to save humanity from an alien cartel.
  3. Pac-Man World Re-Pac (PS5, PS4): A remake of the beloved 1999 platformer, this game brings improved visuals and mechanics. Help Pac-Man rescue his family and friends from Ghost Island.

These games will be available from February 4 to March 3, 2025. While Payday 3 is exclusive to PS5, High on Life and Pac-Man World Re-Pac can be enjoyed on both PS4 and PS5.

About the ‘One more thing’

In a significant announcement, Sony has revealed that starting January 2026, PlayStation Plus will shift its focus to PS5 titles. While PS4 games will no longer be a key benefit, they will still be “occasionally offered” through the various PS Plus tiers.

This means that PS4 players will see fewer free monthly games, but they can still enjoy titles that are playable on both PS4 and PS5.

As many of our players are currently playing on PS5 and have shifted toward redeeming and accessing PS5 titles from the Monthly Games and Game Catalog benefit, PlayStation Plus is also evolving with this trend and will focus on offering PS5 titles through the Monthly Games and Game Catalog benefit starting January 2026. As we shift to PS5, PS4 games will no longer be a key benefit and will only be occasionally offered for PlayStation Plus Monthly Games and Game Catalog starting January 2026. We may still provide titles that can be playable on both PS4 and PS5 consoles after this date.

Please note, this won’t affect the PS4 Monthly Games that you have already redeemed from PlayStation Plus. You’ll continue to have access to games you’ve already redeemed as long as you remain a member.  For Game Catalog, PS4 games will still be available to play until it leaves the catalog as part of our monthly refresh.

This change reflects the growing trend of players migrating to the PS5, but it may be a disappointment for those who have yet to upgrade their consoles. Sony has assured that any PS4 games already redeemed will remain accessible as long as the subscription is active.

For PS4 gamers, this means that the next year will be crucial. They will still receive at least one or two PS4 games each month, but it’s a good idea to start planning for a PS5 upgrade if they want to continue enjoying the full benefits of PlayStation Plus.

The February 2025 collection offers a mix of new and nostalgic experiences, but the future of PS4 games on PlayStation Plus is changing. While it’s a bittersweet moment for PS4 gamers, it’s an exciting time for those embracing the PS5.

Business, Gaming, News

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.