Tag Archives: Gaming News

eSport, Events, Gaming, News

LA Thieves close the last Major Call Of Duty League tournament with a second win in a row

The LA Thieves have once again proven their dominance in the Call of Duty League (CDL), securing victory at the final Major IV of the 2025 season at DreamHack Dallas. This win cements their place as the top seed heading into the CDL Championship Weekend, set to take place in Kitchener, Canada next month.

The journey to the championship was anything but easy. Early in the tournament, the Miami Heretics sent the Thieves into the lower bracket, setting the stage for an intense comeback. The Thieves fought their way back, eliminating Toronto Ultra and OpTic Texas, before getting their revenge against Miami in a decisive 3-0 victory.

In the Grand Finals, the Thieves faced off against Atlanta FaZe, a team known for its resilience and skill. The match was a rollercoaster, with the Thieves taking an early 2-0 lead, only for FaZe to mount a comeback and even the series at 2-2. However, the Thieves regained control, dominating the final two maps to secure a 4-2 series win.

Key Moments & Rivalries

One of the most talked-about moments of the tournament was the heated rivalry between Scrap and SupeR, two of the most outspoken players in the CDL. Their intense exchanges throughout the event added an extra layer of drama, culminating in a fiery showdown when the Thieves eliminated Miami.

Looking Ahead to CDL Champs

With this victory, the LA Thieves enter Championship Weekend with 540 CDL Points, ahead of second-place Atlanta FaZe with 505 points. The top eight teams will battle it out for the ultimate prize, and given the Thieves’ momentum, they are undoubtedly the favorites heading into the final showdown.

eSport, Events, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

HCS Dallas Open: OpTic Gaming’s second win in a row for the HCS Opens at 2025

The Halo Championship Series (HCS) continues to be a battleground for the best Halo players in the world, and the HCS Dallas Open was no exception. OpTic Gaming emerged victorious, solidifying their dominance in the competitive Halo scene. Their performance was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing strategic gameplay, precise shooting, and unmatched teamwork.

OpTic Gaming’s Victory at HCS Dallas Open

OpTic Gaming’s journey to the top was marked by intense matches against formidable opponents. Their ability to adapt to different playstyles and execute flawless strategies set them apart. Some key highlights from their performance include:

  • Clutch Plays: OpTic Gaming’s players delivered incredible moments, turning the tide of matches with well-timed power weapon grabs and coordinated team pushes.
  • Strategic Map Control: Their ability to dominate key areas of the map ensured they maintained control over objectives and dictated the pace of the game.
  • Individual Brilliance: Players like Lucid and Trippy showcased their mechanical skills, landing crucial kills and making game-changing plays.

Basically, the tournament was a comfortable one for OpTic Gaming as they beat Shopify Rebellion and TSM without a single map loss and FaZe Clan where the ones to beat in the grand final.

With a successful force of a reset after scoring of 4-1 and a laser-focus gameplay, they manage to have a perfect 4-0 after reset and nailing the HCS Open Dallas 2025 Trophy.

Next stop for HCS is HCS Major Salt Lake City 2025 at August 1st’s weekend and preceded respectively by HCS Open & Qualifier between Jun and July

eSport, Events, Games, Gaming, News

Here’s how the weekend of Combo Breaker 2025 went

Combo Breaker 2025 has wrapped up, and what a spectacle it was! Held from May 23 to May 25 in Schaumburg, Illinois, this year’s event marked the 10th anniversary of the beloved fighting game tournament. With 24 games featured, including Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, and Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, the competition was fierce, and the surprises were plenty.

Major Tournament Results & Highlights

Street Fighter 6

  • Champion: Leshar (Ed, Mai, Terry) – Dominated the tournament, securing a 3-2 victory over Itabashi Zangief in the grand finals.
  • Runner-up: Itabashi Zangief (Zangief) – A veteran of the scene, fought hard but couldn’t overcome Leshar’s relentless offense.
  • Notable Moments: Blaz vs. DualKevin was a nail-biter, and Bonchan struggled against Leshar, proving how strong Ed has become in competitive play.

Tekken 8

  • Champion: Mulgold (Claudio) – Earned 560 points toward the Tekken World Cup after defeating ATIF and Knee in a thrilling final.
  • Runner-up: ATIF – Showed incredible skill but fell short against Mulgold’s calculated gameplay.
  • Big Reveal: Armor King was announced as the next Season 2 DLC character, alongside a July 10 release date for Fahkumram.

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves

  • Champion: GO1 – Won 12 straight rounds, proving his mastery across multiple fighting games.
  • Runner-up: Reynald – A legendary SNK player, but couldn’t stop GO1’s momentum.
  • Esports Debut: This was the first major tournament for Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, and it did not disappoint.

Mortal Kombat 1

  • Champion: SonicFox (Cyrax) – Finally broke their losing streak at Combo Breaker.
  • Notable Matches: Rewind vs. VideoGamezYo was a highlight, featuring fast-paced attacks and Kameo switches.
  • DLC Characters in Action: Homelander and T-1000 made appearances in the Top 8, adding an unexpected twist to the competition.

Other Major Tournament Results & Highlights

Guilty Gear Strive

  • Champion: UMISHO (Happy Chaos) – Secured victory with a 3-1 comeback in grand finals.
  • Runner-up: Jack (Sol Badguy) – Showed incredible skill but couldn’t hold off UMISHO’s relentless zoning.
  • Notable Moment: UMISHO’s win earned her a spot at the 2025/26 ARC World Tour Finals.

Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising

  • Champion: Xerom (Charlotta) – Dominated the finals with a clean sweep.
  • Runner-up: Zane – Struggled against Charlotta’s aggressive playstyle.
  • Esports Impact: This win secured Xerom a spot at the 2025/26 ARC World Tour Finals.

Under Night In-Birth II [Sys:Celes]

  • Champion: BigBlack – Defended his title with a 3-1 reset victory.
  • Runner-up: Knotts – Put up a strong fight but couldn’t stop BigBlack’s momentum.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

  • Champion: ATATA – 3-1 victory.
  • Runner-up: Ikan.

Exciting Announcements

  • Tekken 8 DLC: Armor King joins the roster in Season 2, with Fahkumram arriving on July 10.
  • Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves: Andy Bogard was revealed as a playable character.
  • Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising: Galleon was confirmed as the next DLC character, with a showcase happening right after the event.
  • Guilty Gear Strive: Unika was revealed as a new playable character, with a gameplay trailer shown during the event

Combo Breaker 2025 was a thrilling celebration of fighting games, packed with intense matches, shocking upsets, and exciting reveals. Whether you’re a hardcore competitor or a casual fan, this year’s event had something for everyone. With new DLC characters, legendary players, and unforgettable moments, Combo Breaker continues to be a cornerstone of the fighting game community.

Breaking, Business, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Now the ‘Game Over’ is official for the FTC about the Activision Blizzard King acquisition injunction

After almost 3 years and a half of legal battles, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has officially dropped its case against Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, marking the end of one of the most significant regulatory challenges in gaming history.

The deal, valued at $69 billion, was finalized in October 2023, but the FTC continued to push back, arguing that Microsoft’s control over Activision Blizzard could harm competition in the gaming industry.

A Long Legal Battle Comes to an End

The FTC initially sought to block the acquisition, fearing that Microsoft would use its ownership of Activision Blizzard to limit access to major franchises like Call of Duty for rival platforms. However, courts repeatedly ruled against the FTC, with the latest appeal being rejected earlier this month. With no legal avenues left, the FTC officially dismissed its complaint, stating that continuing the fight was not in the public interest.

Microsoft President Brad Smith welcomed the decision, calling it a victory for players and common sense in Washington, D.C.. Since acquiring Activision Blizzard, Microsoft has continued to release Call of Duty titles on PlayStation and has even expanded its portfolio by bringing former Xbox exclusives to Sony’s platform. This move suggests that Microsoft is prioritizing accessibility and revenue over exclusivity.

Despite the acquisition boosting Microsoft’s earnings, it has also led to significant layoffs within Activision Blizzard, raising concerns about corporate restructuring and job security in the gaming industry. Additionally, Microsoft has made changes to its Game Pass subscription service, including price increases, which some critics argue could be a consequence of the massive acquisition.

What’s Next for Microsoft and Activision Blizzard?

With the FTC officially stepping aside, Microsoft can now fully integrate Activision Blizzard into its gaming ecosystem. This could mean:

  • More Activision Blizzard titles appearing on Xbox Game Pass.
  • Potential new exclusive content for Xbox and PC.
  • Further expansion into cloud gaming, leveraging Activision Blizzard’s franchises.

While the regulatory battle is over, the gaming industry will be watching closely to see how Microsoft handles its newfound power. Will it continue to support multi-platform releases, or will it eventually shift towards exclusivity? Only time will tell.

Games, Gaming, Hardware/Console, Mobile, News, PC

SteamOS 3.7.8 just in time for newcomers portable Gaming PC

Valve has rolled out SteamOS 3.7.8, bringing a host of improvements and new features to the Steam Deck. This update marks the first stable release of SteamOS 3.7, introducing significant upgrades to the system’s core components and enhancing the overall user experience.

Major System Upgrades

SteamOS 3.7.8 comes with a fresh Arch Linux base, ensuring better compatibility and performance. Additionally, the Linux kernel has been updated to version 6.11, providing improved hardware support and security enhancements.

For gamers who demand the best visuals, this update includes an upgraded Mesa graphics driver base, ensuring better rendering and performance across various games. Moreover, Plasma 6.2.5 is now the default desktop mode, offering a more refined and responsive interface.

One of the standout features is the support for frame limiting with VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) displays, both internal and external. This addition helps maintain smoother gameplay and reduces screen tearing, making the Steam Deck even more versatile.

A much-requested feature has finally arrived—Battery Charge Limit control. Users can now set a maximum charge percentage in Settings → Power, helping to prolong battery lifespan and optimize power usage.

SteamOS 3.7.8: Go Country

This is the first release of SteamOS 3.7 to the Stable channel. The below notes are for changes since SteamOS 3.6.24. For changes relative to previous 3.7 beta builds see here.

General

  • Updated to a newer Arch Linux base
  • Updated the Linux kernel to 6.11
  • Updated the Mesa graphics driver base
  • Desktop mode now ships with Plasma 6.2.5
  • Added support for frame limiting with VRR displays (internal and external)
  • Added Battery Charge Limit control to Settings->Power
    • This option allows you to set a maximum charge limit for your Steam Deck.
    • Limiting the charge limit to 80% can be beneficial for long term battery health. This can be useful if your Steam Deck is constantly being charged (e.g. docked), or very rarely has its battery depleted.
  • Fixed a crash when no displays are connected
  • Added official support for the Lenovo Legion Go S
  • Improved support for other AMD powered handhelds (like the ROG Ally and original Legion Go)
  • Updated the SteamOS recovery image for repairing SteamOS on Steam Deck and Legion Go S. If you would like to test SteamOS on your own AMD powered handheld, you can use this SteamOS recovery image and follow the instructions here.

Controllers and Input

  • Add support for the Proteus Byowave controller
  • Fixed an issue where Switch Pro Controller gyros might not work on first connection
  • Fixed an issue with stuck/hanging controller inputs when exiting Steam

Bluetooth

  • Fixed Bluetooth devices still being able to wake the Steam Deck from suspend, even when Bluetooth was disabled from Desktop mode
  • Enable HFP/HSP profiles, to allow using the integrated microphone from headsets and earbuds
    • Currently only available to select in Desktop mode
  • Added battery level display for supported Bluetooth devices
  • Include a bugfix for the Airpods when using the AAC codec
  • Bluetooth controllers can now wake LCD units from sleep, previously only available on OLED models
    • Known issue: Bluetooth LE based controllers are not currently compatible with bluetooth wake on LCD models

Steam Deck Dock

  • Made compatibility improvements for certain displays including TCL FireTV models and Dell VRR capable monitors

Graphics and Performance

  • Enabled AMD P-State CPU frequency control
  • Fixed a performance regression for No Rest for the Wicked

Desktop

  • Updated to Plasma 6.2.5 (previously 5.27.10) – see the big changes in Plasma 6 here
  • Surround sound now works correctly
    • Enabling the setting is currently only available via Desktop mode
  • KDE Filelight is now installed by default for disk usage visualization and low disk space notifications
  • Speed and robustness improvements when switching between desktop and game mode
    • Fixed a common cause of hangs when switching to desktop mode
    • Fixed some cases where Steam could take up to ninety seconds to exit on shutdown or switch to desktop
  • Added ‘gocryptfs’ support to desktop session to enable use of the Plasma Vaults feature

Misc

  • Fixed some cases where “filter-chain” or other virtual sound devices would erroneously appear in the UI
  • Fixed cases where applying system updates could fail if certain configuration files were corrupted or malformed
  • Various enhancements to System Report functionality for support and troubleshooting
  • Fixed compatibility issue with certain DNS servers causing very slow domain lookups
  • Improved responsiveness of system when running into out-of-memory crash situations
  • Enabled IPv6 Privacy Extensions by default
  • Fixed a bootloader crash on certain non-Steam Deck devices, including qemu-based virtual machines

Known Issues

  • Super NES controllers can erroneously show up as connected when they are not

Developer

  • Updated to a 6.11 based kernel
  • Added debuginfod URLs for SteamOS
  • Added systemd .socket units to the default list of /etc files preserved across updates
  • When running in a VM, system will now default to the desktop session
  • Swap file setup now uses standard ‘mkswap’ functionality instead of shipping an ad-hoc ‘mkswapfile’ script
  • The steamos-readonly command now warns that the status might not be accurate when sysexts are loaded
  • Fixed a case that could introduce duplicate boot entries for devices manually setup to dual-boot
  • The pacman cache is now cleaned after applying a SteamOS update
    • Fixes stale cache errors working with pacman after switching branches

SteamOS 3.7.8 is a substantial update that enhances the Steam Deck experience across multiple fronts. Whether it’s improved graphics, better power management, or a more stable Linux foundation, Valve continues to refine its handheld gaming powerhouse.

Steam Deck – SteamOS 3.7.8: Go Country – Steam News
This is the first release of SteamOS 3.7 to the Stable channel. The below notes are for changes since SteamOS 3.6.24. For changes relative to previous 3.7 beta builds see here.GeneralUpdated to a newer Arch Linux baseUpdated the Linux kernel to 6.11Updated the Mesa graphics driver baseDesktop mode now ships with Plasma 6.2.5Added support for frame limiting with VRR displays (internal and external)Added Battery Charge Limit control to Settings->PowerThis option allows you to set a maximum charge…
Source/Via

Gaming, Mobile, News

Destiny Rising Closed Beta: A Glimpse into Destiny debut on mobile gaming world

The gaming world is abuzz with excitement as Destiny Rising, the latest entry in the beloved sci-fi shooter franchise, enters its Closed Beta phase. This moment represents more than just a technical trial—it’s an opportunity for dedicated fans to shape the future of the game. But before we dive into expectations, let’s take a step back and explore how we got here.

Since its inception, the Destiny series has captivated players with its rich lore, fluid combat, and seamless blend of PvE and PvP experiences. The franchise has evolved dramatically over the years, introducing interstellar wars, cryptic entities, and grand quests for power that have cemented its place in gaming history.

Now, Destiny Rising promises to take that legacy to new heights with enhanced mechanics, a gripping narrative, and what developers tout as “the most immersive world yet.” This Closed Beta serves as our first real taste.

Closed Beta: What to Expect

Players fortunate enough to gain early access to Destiny Rising will experience core gameplay elements designed to test balance, mechanics, and server stability. Here’s what’s rumored to be included:

  • New Playable Classes – Speculation suggests a third faction may shake up the Guardian dynamic, introducing fresh abilities and lore implications.
  • Expanded Open Worlds – Early screenshots hint at vast landscapes, seamlessly blending urban ruins with cosmic anomalies.
  • PvP Overhaul – Competitive players should brace for new ranked modes, balance adjustments, and fresh weapons designed for high-stakes combat.
  • AI-Powered Enemies – The Closed Beta will likely introduce smarter, more adaptive foes, making encounters more unpredictable.

The Community’s Role

Beta phases aren’t just about polishing mechanics—they allow players to actively shape the final experience. Feedback on combat, exploration, and mission pacing will be crucial in defining the core identity of Destiny Rising before launch.

With the Closed Beta unfolding, speculation about the endgame, future raids, and overarching story beats is ramping up. Will Destiny Rising deliver the revolution fans have been waiting for? Time will tell—but right now, players have a front-row seat to gaming history.

Games, Gaming, News

Starfield received official content via Creations with Update 1.15.214

Bethesda Studios has just rolled out a fresh update for Starfield, bringing a mix of bug fixes, gameplay improvements, and enhanced mod support. While this update doesn’t introduce new content, it does refine the experience for players by addressing stability issues and adding new features to the Creation Kit.

One of the standout additions is the Watchtower DLC, a new storyline developed by Kinggath Creations, the team behind Fallout 4’s Sim Settlements mod. This expansion introduces a new faction, high-tech weaponry, and even the ability to call in missile strikes from planetary orbit—a game-changer for combat scenarios.

Additionally, Bethesda has improved modding capabilities by allowing Creations up to 2GB in size and introducing custom icons for mods. These changes aim to support the growing modding community and enhance player customization.

Starfield is Bethesda’s first new IP in 25 years, following the success of The Elder Scrolls and Fallout franchises. Set in the year 2330, the game takes players into the Settled Systems, a region spanning multiple star systems where humanity has expanded beyond Earth.

At the heart of the story is Constellation, an organization dedicated to exploring the mysteries of the universe. Players take on the role of a space explorer, uncovering ancient artifacts that hint at a deeper cosmic truth. The game blends Bethesda’s signature open-world RPG mechanics with space exploration, allowing players to customize ships, engage in interstellar combat, and build outposts on distant planets.

Despite its ambitious scope, Starfield has faced mixed reactions. While praised for its world-building and deep lore, some players have criticized its lack of replayability and modding restrictions. However, Bethesda continues to refine the experience, with updates like the latest patch aiming to improve stability and gameplay mechanics.

With Bethesda teasing big things for Starfield in 2025, fans are eager to see how the game evolves. Whether through official expansions or community-driven mods, Starfield remains a fascinating space RPG with plenty of potential.

Starfield’s May Update Is Now Live
Starfield’s May Update is now live for all players! This update contains numerous quality-of-life improvements and fixes for quests, vehicles, graphics, and more.
Source/Via
Business, Games, Gaming, News

Embracer Group pressed the gas pedal on games releases

Embracer Group, a powerhouse in the gaming industry, has recently released its latest earnings report, shedding light on its financial health, strategic direction, and the challenges it faces in an evolving market. With a diverse portfolio spanning PC, console, and mobile games, Embracer Group continues to make waves in the industry, but how do its latest numbers stack up?

Financial Performance Overview

According to the latest financial reports, Embracer Group reported revenue of approximately $690 million, marking a 38% decline compared to the same quarter in 2024. Despite this drop in revenue, the company managed to turn its financial situation around, reporting a net income of around $88 million, a significant improvement from the $160 million loss in the previous year. This shift indicates a stronger financial footing and improved cost management.

Key Earnings Highlights

  • Revenue: ~$690 million (down 38% YoY)
  • Net Income: ~$88 million (compared to a loss of ~$160 million in Q3 2024)
  • Profit Margin: 13% (up from a net loss in Q3 2024)

These figures suggest that while revenue has taken a hit, Embracer Group has successfully optimized its operations to improve profitability

Embracer Group has been actively restructuring its business model, aiming to streamline operations and focus on high-performing assets. The company has also announced its intention to transform into three standalone publicly listed entities, a move that could provide greater flexibility and strategic focus. Additionally, Embracer Group has been aggressively expanding its gaming portfolio, releasing 76 different games in the past year

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite the positive turnaround in profitability, Embracer Group faces several challenges:

  • Market Competition: The gaming industry is highly competitive, with major players like Microsoft, Sony, and Tencent dominating the space.
  • Revenue Decline: The 38% drop in revenue signals potential difficulties in maintaining growth.
  • Restructuring Risks: The transformation into three separate entities could introduce operational complexities.

Looking ahead, analysts forecast that Embracer Group’s revenue will grow 10% annually over the next three years, slightly below the 12% growth forecast for the entertainment industry in Sweden. This suggests that while the company is on a recovery path, it will need to innovate and adapt to maintain its competitive edge.

Embracer Group’s latest earnings report paints a picture of resilience and strategic recalibration. While revenue has declined, the company’s ability to turn losses into profits is a promising sign. With its ambitious restructuring plans and continued expansion in gaming, Embracer Group is positioning itself for long-term success. However, navigating market competition and ensuring sustainable growth will be key challenges moving forward.

Reports and presentations – Embracer Group
/ Investors
Source/Via
Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

Playstation Stars will fade away at the galaxy (shutdown)

Sony Confirms the Shutdown of PlayStation Stars Loyalty Program

Sony has officially announced the discontinuation of its PlayStation Stars loyalty program, marking the end of an initiative that rewarded players with digital collectibles and redeemable points for engaging with PlayStation games and activities. The program, which launched in 2022, will fully shut down on November 2, 2026, but existing members will still be able to earn rewards until July 23, 2025.

In a statement released on the PlayStation Blog, Sony explained that the decision to wind down PlayStation Stars was based on an evaluation of player engagement and industry trends. The company emphasized that it had learned valuable insights from the program and would use these findings to explore new ways to enhance its loyalty initiatives.

Since launching the program, we’ve learned a lot from evaluating the types of activities our players respond best to, and as a company, we are always evolving with player and industry trends. Through this evaluation, we have decided to refocus our efforts and will be winding down the current version of PlayStation Stars.

What Happens Next for PlayStation Stars Members?

Sony has outlined a gradual shutdown process for PlayStation Stars:

  • No new members will be accepted into the program starting immediately.
  • Existing members can continue earning digital collectibles, points, and level up their status until July 23, 2025.
  • After July 23, 2025, no new campaigns, rewards, or benefits will be available.
  • Members can redeem their points until November 2, 2026, after which the program will be completely discontinued.
  • Digital collectibles earned through the program will remain accessible even after the shutdown.

The Legacy of PlayStation Stars

PlayStation Stars was introduced as a way to reward player engagement through a variety of challenges, including earning trophies and purchasing digital games. While the program had its dedicated user base, it never fully integrated into the PlayStation console experience, remaining primarily accessible through the PlayStation App on mobile devices.

Despite its discontinuation, Sony has hinted at future loyalty initiatives, suggesting that the company is exploring new ways to engage and reward players. Whether this means a revamped version of PlayStation Stars or an entirely new program remains to be seen.

The shutdown of PlayStation Stars marks the end of an era for PlayStation’s loyalty efforts, but it also opens the door for new and improved player engagement strategies. As Sony continues to evolve with industry trends, PlayStation fans can expect fresh opportunities to earn rewards and celebrate their gaming achievements in the future.

PlayStation Stars coming to a close as SIE evaluates new ways to evolve future Loyalty Program efforts
Qualifying Points redeemable until November 2026.
Source/Via
Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Nintendo addressing about decisions behind Mario Kart Tour & the redesign of Donkey Kong

Nintendo’s redesign of Donkey Kong and the naming of Mario Kart World instead of “Mario Kart 9” have sparked discussions among fans. Here’s a deep dive into the reasoning behind these changes and their potential impact.

Nintendo’s Justification for Donkey Kong’s Redesign

Nintendo has opted for a modernized look for Donkey Kong, aligning his appearance with the version seen in The Super Mario Bros. Movie. This redesign features:

  • Smoother facial features: His once furrowed brow has been softened, giving him a more approachable and expressive look.
  • Updated fur texture: More detailed rendering enhances realism while maintaining his classic charm.
  • Merchandise integration: Nintendo has introduced new Donkey Kong-themed products featuring this updated design.

Fans have had mixed reactions. Some appreciate the friendlier aesthetic, while others miss the classic rugged look that defined Donkey Kong for decades. Former Donkey Kong Country artist Kevin Bayliss responded to the redesign, stating, “Everything changes! Change is good!”.

The redesign hints at a larger focus on Donkey Kong in upcoming Nintendo projects. With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, speculation suggests:

  • A new Donkey Kong game featuring the updated design.
  • Further integration of the character into Mario Kart World and other franchises.

Why “Mario Kart World” Instead of “Mario Kart 9”?

Nintendo’s decision to name the latest installment Mario Kart World instead of continuing the numbered sequence reflects a shift in vision. According to producer Kosuke Yabuki, the game aims to be more expansive, incorporating a global racing experience rather than just adding new tracks.

This change suggests:

  • A broader scope: Potentially featuring international circuits and new gameplay mechanics.
  • A fresh branding approach: Moving away from sequential numbering to emphasize evolution rather than iteration.

Nintendo’s approach to evolving its characters and franchises reflects its commitment to keeping them fresh and relevant. Whether fans embrace these changes or remain nostalgic for the past, one thing is certain—Donkey Kong and Mario Kart are entering a new era.

Nintendo Goes All In on Donkey Kong Redesign Seen in Nintendo Switch 2 and Mario Kart 9 First Look – IGN
Nintendo is going all in on the Donkey Kong redesign spotted by fans in the Mario Kart 9 gameplay debuted during the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal event.
Source/Via