Tag Archives: Industry

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
Breaking, Games, Gaming, Mobile, News, Xbox

Microsoft: “Is Apple’s fault we couldn’t release our Xbox Mobile Store”

Microsoft has formally accused Apple of obstructing the launch of its Xbox mobile web store, initially planned for July 2024. In a court filing on May 21, 2025, Microsoft stated that its efforts have been “stymied by Apple”. This legal battle is unfolding as part of Epic Games’ ongoing fight against Apple’s App Store policies, with Microsoft submitting an amicus brief to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in support of Epic.

The dispute highlights broader concerns about Apple’s control over mobile gaming and app distribution, echoing past struggles faced by cloud gaming services like Project xCloud and Google Stadia on iOS.

The Xbox Mobile Store Delay

Microsoft’s frustration stems from Apple’s restrictive App Store policies, particularly its anti-steering rules, which prevent developers from directing users to payment options outside Apple’s proprietary system. These rules have historically been a major point of contention, as they allow Apple to maintain its commission structure while limiting developers’ ability to offer alternative payment methods.

A pivotal moment in this legal battle came on April 30, 2025, when U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that Apple had violated a 2021 anti-steering injunction. The ruling explicitly forbids Apple from levying commissions on purchases made through external links from U.S. App Store apps and prevents restrictions on how developers communicate these alternatives. Microsoft argues that Apple’s continued enforcement of these policies has stifled innovation and prevented the company from launching its Xbox mobile store as planned.

Microsoft’s ambitions extend beyond just a web store. The company has long sought to enable Xbox app users on iOS to purchase and stream games directly within the app, an effort repeatedly blocked by Apple’s policies. Even after Microsoft enabled game purchases in its Xbox mobile app on iOS last month, it had to remove the remote play feature to comply with Apple’s App Store rules.

Project xCloud’s Struggles on iOS

Microsoft’s battle with Apple is not new. The company faced similar challenges when launching Project xCloud, its cloud gaming service, on iOS. Initially, Microsoft planned to bring xCloud to iPhones and iPads, allowing users to stream Xbox games directly from the cloud. However, Apple’s App Store policies severely limited the service’s functionality.

In February 2020, Microsoft launched a limited beta for Project xCloud on iOS through Apple’s TestFlight program. Unlike the Android version, which supported multiple games, the iOS beta was restricted to just one title—Halo: The Master Chief Collection. Apple’s policies prevented Microsoft from offering a broader selection of games, citing concerns over app review processes and content moderation. Ultimately, Microsoft was forced to abandon its plans for a full xCloud rollout on iOS, instead directing users to access the service via a web browser.

Stadia’s Similar Struggles

Back when it was on full throttle, Google’s Stadia cloud gaming service faced nearly identical obstacles on iOS. Stadia was designed to allow users to stream games directly from Google’s servers, bypassing the need for powerful local hardware. However, Apple’s App Store policies prevented Google from launching a dedicated Stadia app with full functionality.

Instead, Google had to rely on a web-based workaround, allowing users to access Stadia through Safari rather than a native app. This approach introduced technical limitations and a less seamless user experience compared to the Android version. Additionally, Stadia players on iOS encountered connectivity issues, particularly after upgrading to iOS 15.

Some users reported that Stadia would not function properly on mobile data, requiring adjustments to Safari’s experimental settings to restore functionality.

The Return of Fortnite and Its Impact

The recent return of Fortnite to the iOS App Store marks a significant shift in the ongoing battle between developers and Apple. After nearly five years of absence, Fortnite was reinstated following a court ruling on April 30, 2025, which found Apple had violated antitrust laws. The ruling forced Apple to allow developers to link to external payment systems, a major victory for Epic Games and other companies seeking greater flexibility in monetization.

Fortnite’s return could set a precedent for Microsoft’s Xbox mobile store ambitions. Epic Games has already begun promoting alternative payment methods within Fortnite, offering players incentives to purchase in-game currency through the Epic Games Store rather than Apple’s in-app system. If Microsoft follows a similar strategy, it could bypass Apple’s restrictions and finally launch its Xbox mobile store via a web-based platform.

Microsoft’s legal battle with Apple is part of a broader industry movement pushing for greater developer freedom on mobile platforms. The struggles faced by Project xCloud and Stadia on iOS illustrate the challenges of launching cloud gaming services under Apple’s restrictive policies. However, Fortnite’s return to iOS signals a potential shift in the power dynamics between Apple and developers.

If Microsoft succeeds in its legal challenge, it could pave the way for a more open mobile gaming ecosystem, allowing Xbox users to purchase and stream games without Apple’s intervention. The outcome of this case will not only shape the future of the Xbox mobile store but also influence how developers approach app distribution and monetization on iOS.

Events, Gaming, Hardware/Console, News, PC

Ryzen Threadripper 9000 Series for serious computing and hefty budgeted gamers

AMD has officially unveiled its Ryzen Threadripper 9000 Series processors, codenamed “Shimada Peak”, bringing up to 96 Zen 5 cores and 192 threads to the high-end desktop and workstation markets. These chips promise up to 2.2 times the performance of competing Intel Xeon processors.

Key Features of the Threadripper 9000 Series

  • Two distinct families:
    • Threadripper Pro 9000 WX (for workstations)
    • Threadripper 9000 (non-Pro, for high-end desktops)
  • Flagship model: 9995WX with 96 cores, 192 threads, 2.5GHz base clock, 5.4GHz boost clock, and 384MB L3 cache.
  • Memory & Connectivity:
    • Up to 128 PCIe 5.0 lanes
    • 8-channel DDR5-6400 ECC memory support
  • Non-Pro lineup:
    • 9980X (64 cores, 128 threads)
    • 9970X (32 cores, 64 threads)
    • 9960X (24 cores, 48 threads)
    • Quad-channel DDR5-6400 memory support
  • Performance Boost:
    • 22% better performance in threaded workloads compared to the previous generation.
    • AVX-512 instruction support for enhanced processing power.

Release Date & Availability

The Threadripper 9000 Series will be available starting July 2025 for DIY builders and in prebuilt workstations from Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Supermicro.

AMD’s latest processors are designed for AI development, 3D modeling, and ultra-high-resolution video editing, making them a powerhouse for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Now… why gamers should be considering this and maybe… for those who had the budget.

Games are increasingly optimized for multi-core performance, and with Threadripper offering up to 96 cores and 192 threads, even the lower-tier models in the lineup will provide incredible multitasking power. If you’re gaming while streaming, editing videos, or running heavy background tasks, this could be a game-changer.

Also, spending wisely means investing in hardware that lasts. With PCIe 5.0 and DDR5-6400 memory support, you’re securing a system that remains relevant for years. Faster SSDs, quicker load times, and snappier game performance make these chips worth considering.

While traditional gaming CPUs like Ryzen 7 and Ryzen 9 are the go-to choices, Threadripper 9000’s non-Pro lineup offers serious firepower, especially if prices drop due to competition with Intel. If AMD provides good deals on the 9970X (32-core) or 9980X (64-core) models, they could rival mainstream CPUs in performance and value.

Finally, big titles like Minecraft, Cyberpunk 2077, and GTA V with heavy modding rely on CPU power rather than just a high-end GPU. More cores mean smoother AI processing, physics calculations, and world generation, making Threadripper a solid choice for modders and open-world gamers.

With that being said remember that typically the cheapest processor can go between $1,399 to $1,799 and we are not talking about the motherboard yet, so, there is that and my attempt on making this announcement being aware at the gaming community.

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.

Featured, Gaming, Hardware/Console, News, PC

Gamers Nexus could be the first of many reviewers and content creators fed up with Nvidia’s behavior

In the ever-evolving world of tech journalism, transparency and integrity are paramount. However, recent allegations from Gamers Nexus suggest that Nvidia may be engaging in questionable media practices to control the narrative surrounding its latest GPU releases. This controversy has sparked discussions about corporate influence, journalistic ethics, and the delicate balance between access and independence.

The Accusations: Nvidia’s Alleged Media Pressure Tactics

Gamers Nexus, a well-respected voice in the PC hardware community, has accused Nvidia of pressuring reviewers to include performance metrics for features like Multi-Frame Generation 4X (MFG4X) in their reviews—even when the tested hardware does not support the feature. According to Gamers Nexus, Nvidia allegedly threatened to withhold access to key engineers and internal resources if reviewers did not comply with these demands.

This revelation raises concerns about editorial coercion, where companies leverage their influence to shape public perception. If true, such tactics could undermine the credibility of independent reviews and mislead consumers who rely on unbiased assessments before making purchasing decisions.

The allegations against Nvidia are not just about one company—they highlight a larger issue within the tech industry. When corporations dictate review conditions, they compromise journalistic integrity and erode trust between media outlets and their audiences.

Reports indicate that Nvidia has been selectively providing review drivers only to media outlets that agreed to its strict testing conditions. This means that early reviews of the RTX 5060 were conducted under Nvidia’s preferred benchmarks, potentially skewing the results in favor of the company’s narrative. Such practices raise ethical concerns about whether reviewers can truly provide objective assessments when their access is contingent upon compliance.

The tech community plays a crucial role in challenging corporate influence and demanding transparency. Independent reviewers like Gamers Nexus serve as watchdogs, exposing practices that could mislead consumers. By supporting unbiased journalism and engaging in open discussions, the community can push back against manipulative tactics.

Consumers should also be critical of marketing narratives and seek multiple sources before making purchasing decisions. The more informed the audience, the harder it becomes for corporations to control the conversation.

At its core, this controversy is a reminder that corporate influence should never outweigh journalistic integrity. Nvidia’s alleged tactics, if proven true, highlight the power dynamics between tech giants and independent media. As the industry continues to evolve, maintaining transparency and ethical standards will be essential in preserving trust between companies, reviewers, and consumers.

The situation kind of reminds that Nvidia have been in hot waters a few years ago, while a different situation, it did cost a complete distrust from a known partner.

In 2022, EVGA, one of Nvidia’s largest board partners, abruptly exited the GPU market, citing disrespect from Nvidia. According to reports, Nvidia refused to provide basic pre-launch information—such as pricing—until CEO Jensen Huang publicly announced the GPUs. This made it difficult for EVGA to plan its business strategy.

Additionally, Nvidia allegedly restricted pricing on certain cards, while simultaneously releasing Founders Edition GPUs that undercut EVGA’s own products. The oversupply of GPUs further forced EVGA to drastically cut prices, leading to financial losses. Ultimately, EVGA deemed the partnership unprofitable and walked away from the GPU business.

Events, Gaming, Hardware/Console, News

Razer Blade 14 (2025): A Compact Powerhouse Unveiled at Computex

Computex 2025 has brought a wave of exciting announcements, and among them, Razer has officially unveiled the Razer Blade 14 (2025)—a gaming laptop that blends cutting-edge AI capabilities with a sleek, lightweight design. This latest iteration of Razer’s smallest gaming laptop is more than just a spec bump; it’s a complete overhaul that takes inspiration from the redesigned Blade 16 while introducing new features tailored for gamers and creators alike.

A Redesigned Chassis for Maximum Portability

Razer has adapted the Blade 16’s redesigned chassis to fit the Blade 14, making it thinner (15.7mm) and lighter (1.63kg) than ever before. The laptop retains Razer’s signature CNC-milled aluminum body, now available in black and silver, though a pink variant has yet to be announced. Despite its compact size, Razer has managed to integrate six speakers for an immersive audio experience and a microSD card slot, catering to content creators.

At the heart of the Blade 14 is AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 365 processor, a 10-core powerhouse designed to handle gaming, productivity, and AI-driven tasks with ease. Paired with NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 5060 or 5070 GPUs, this laptop is built for high-performance gaming while maintaining efficiency. The AI enhancements extend beyond raw power—this Blade 14 is a full Copilot+ PC, meaning it supports the latest AI-driven features in Windows 11.

A Stunning OLED Display

One of the most significant upgrades is the 2.8K OLED display, replacing last year’s QHD+ 240Hz IPS LCD panel. While the refresh rate has been reduced to 120Hz, the OLED technology offers a faster response time (0.2ms), deeper blacks, and richer colors, making it a compelling choice for both gamers and creatives.

Razer has opted for soldered RAM, meaning users won’t be able to upgrade memory post-purchase. However, the DDR5-8000 RAM ensures blazing-fast performance, with configurations available up to 64GB. Storage remains upgradeable, with options reaching 2TB PCIe Gen 4 SSDs.

The Blade 14 retains its 72Whr battery, with Razer claiming an additional hour of usage thanks to the more efficient hardware. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, two USB 4.0 ports, two USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A ports, HDMI 2.1, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

Availability and Pricing

The Razer Blade 14 (2025) is available exclusively through Razer’s store, starting at $2,299.99 for the RTX 5060 variant. While some configurations are already live, availability may vary by region

Razer’s latest Blade 14 is a testament to how compact gaming laptops can continue evolving without sacrificing power. With AI-driven enhancements, a stunning OLED display, and a refined chassis, this laptop is poised to be a favorite among gamers and professionals alike. While the lack of upgradeable RAM may be a downside for some, the overall package makes it one of the most exciting gaming laptops announced at Computex 2025.

The Razer Blade 14 got the AI laptop treatment with less weight, more ports and speakers, and two colors
The Razer Blade 14 (2025) has been announced, bringing a redesign with AMD Ryzen AI, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50-series, less weight and thickness, and more features.
Source/Via
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.

Download QR-Code
‎Fortnite
Developer: Epic Games Inc.
Price: Free+
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

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.