Tag Archives: Industry

Breaking, Business, Gaming, News

Acclaim is back to help indies developers and hopefully learned from its former self’s mistakes

In the ever-evolving world of video games, few names evoke as much nostalgia as Acclaim Entertainment. Founded in 1987, Acclaim was a powerhouse in the gaming industry, responsible for bringing some of the most beloved franchises to life. From the adrenaline-pumping action of “Mortal Kombat” to the prehistoric adventures of “Turok,” Acclaim’s logo was a familiar sight for gamers of the ’80s and ’90s. However, the company’s journey was not without its ups and downs, culminating in its bankruptcy in 2004. Now, over two decades later, Acclaim is making a triumphant return, and its story is one worth telling.

The Rise and Fall of Acclaim

Acclaim Entertainment was founded with a clear vision: to become a dominant force in the gaming industry. The company’s name was strategically chosen to appear before competitors like Activision and Accolade in alphabetical listings. This clever marketing move was just the beginning of Acclaim’s innovative approach to the industry.

Throughout the late ’80s and ’90s, Acclaim published a plethora of iconic games. Titles like “NBA Jam,” “Burnout,” and “Mary-Kate and Ashley: Sweet 16 – License to Drive” became household names. The company’s success was not limited to a single genre; it spanned sports, action, and even licensed games based on popular TV shows and movies.

However, as the new millennium approached, Acclaim faced increasing financial difficulties. The company’s aggressive marketing strategies, such as reimbursing UK drivers with speeding tickets to promote “Burnout 2” and urging parents to name their baby “Turok” for a contest, were not enough to stave off bankruptcy. In September 2004, Acclaim filed for bankruptcy, leaving behind a legacy of both triumphs and controversies.

The Resurrection of Acclaim

Fast forward to 2025, and Acclaim is back, but with a new mission and a fresh approach. The company has re-entered the market with a focus on supporting independent developers and revitalizing its classic franchises. Under the leadership of new CEO Alex Josef, Acclaim aims to provide funding, marketing, and PR support to indie studios looking to break into the industry.

Josef, a veteran of the gaming industry with over two decades of experience, is passionate about bringing Acclaim back to the forefront. “It’s an absolute honor and pleasure to be leading the charge in bringing Acclaim back to the forefront of the games industry,” Josef said. The company has already signed several indie titles, which will be revealed soon.

To achieve its goals, Acclaim has assembled an advisory board comprising industry veterans like Russell Binder at Striker Entertainment, Mark Caplan at Ridge Partners, and WWE legend Jeff Jarrett at Global Force Entertainment. This diverse team brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, ensuring that Acclaim’s revival is both strategic and impactful.

A New Era for Acclaim

The return of Acclaim is not just about nostalgia; it’s about innovation and adaptation. The company recognizes the importance of indie developers in today’s gaming landscape and is committed to providing them with the resources they need to succeed. By supporting indie studios and breathing new life into its classic IPs, Acclaim aims to make a significant impact on the industry once again.

As gamers eagerly await the announcement of the new titles and the revival of beloved franchises, one thing is clear: Acclaim’s return is a testament to the enduring power of great games and the passion of those who create them. The company’s journey from its rise in the ’80s to its fall in 2004, and now its resurrection in 2025, is a story of resilience, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

In the words of Jeff Jarrett, “Resurrecting Acclaim is an opportunity to impart the same degree of passion and love to a new generation, and I’m excited to be involved”. With a talented team, a clear vision, and a commitment to supporting the next generation of game developers, Acclaim is poised to make its mark on the gaming world once again.

Business, Featured, Gaming, News

Rockstar Games bought one of its bigger gaming developer partner

Rockstar Games has recently made headlines with its acquisition of Video Games Deluxe, a Sydney-based game development studio. This move marks a significant expansion for Rockstar, as it establishes a new development hub in Australia, aptly named Rockstar Australia.

Video Games Deluxe has a long history of collaboration with Rockstar Games. The studio was founded by Brendan McNamara, who previously led Team Bondi, the creators of the critically acclaimed game LA Noire. After Team Bondi’s dissolution in 2011, McNamara and several key staff members moved to Video Games Deluxe, which has since worked exclusively on Rockstar projects.

The partnership between Rockstar and Video Games Deluxe has yielded several successful projects. These include the 2017 re-release of LA Noire, LA Noire: The VR Case Files, and the much-anticipated Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition. Video Games Deluxe played a crucial role in bringing these titles to life, showcasing their expertise and dedication to quality2.

The Acquisition

The acquisition of Video Games Deluxe by Rockstar Games was announced with much enthusiasm from both parties. Jennifer Kolbe, head of publishing at Rockstar, expressed excitement about the new addition to the Rockstar family.

After working together closely over many years, we are excited to have Video Games Deluxe join the team as Rockstar Australia.

Brendan McNamara echoed this sentiment, saying:

It’s been an honor to work closely with Rockstar Games this past decade. We are thrilled to be a part of Rockstar Games and to continue our efforts to make the best games possible.

With the establishment of Rockstar Australia, the company now boasts a total of ten subsidiary studios, in addition to its headquarters in New York City. This expansion is expected to bolster Rockstar’s development capabilities and contribute to the creation of even more high-quality games in the future.

Grand Theft Auto 6

One of the most anticipated projects on Rockstar’s horizon is Grand Theft Auto 6. While the acquisition of Video Games Deluxe does not directly relate to GTA 6, it is speculated that Rockstar Australia may play a role in its development. GTA 6 is set for release later this year and is projected to sell 40 million copies, generating over $3 billion in revenue during its first year.

The acquisition of Video Games Deluxe by Rockstar Games is a strategic move that strengthens Rockstar’s global presence and development capabilities. With a proven track record of successful collaborations, Rockstar Australia is poised to contribute significantly to the company’s future projects. As the gaming community eagerly awaits the release of Grand Theft Auto 6, the addition of Rockstar Australia promises to bring even more exciting developments to the world of gaming.

Business, Gaming, News

Visions Of Mana co-director returns after its studios demise at the hands of NetEase

Ouka Studios was a subsidiary of NetEase Games, known for developing the RPG Visions of Mana, which was published by Square Enix. The studio was founded with the goal of creating high-quality games that would resonate with players worldwide. However, the journey of Ouka Studios was short-lived, as it was shut down by NetEase shortly after the release of Visions of Mana.

The founding of Ouka Studios was marked by the collaboration of talented developers, including Kenji Ozawa, who co-directed Visions of Mana. The studio aimed to bring fresh and innovative ideas to the gaming industry, leveraging the expertise of its team members. Despite the initial excitement and potential, the studio faced challenges that ultimately led to its closure.

NetEase’s decision to shut down Ouka Studios was part of a broader strategy to scale back its investment in Japanese studios. This move was driven by cost-cutting efforts and a shift in focus towards other priorities.

The closure of Ouka Studios was a significant blow to the developers who had poured their passion and creativity into their projects.

In the wake of Ouka Studios’ closure, Kenji Ozawa decided to take matters into his own hands. Motivated by the desire to protect creators and ensure that management takes responsibility for its decisions, Ozawa founded a new studio called Studio Sasanqua. This new venture aims to integrate management and development, providing a supportive environment for creators to thrive.

Studio Sasanqua’s mission is to create smaller projects using Unreal Engine, with the long-term goal of developing larger-scale games for PC and consoles. Ozawa’s vision for the studio is to foster a sense of security for developers and to take full responsibility for any management-related mistakes.

This approach is a direct response to the challenges faced by Ouka Studios and reflects Ozawa’s commitment to creating a better future for game developers.

The story of Ouka Studios serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting and supporting creators in the gaming industry. While the studio’s journey was cut short, its legacy lives on through the efforts of its former team members and the new ventures they embark on.

Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

Twisted Metal was planned for a reboot, but never came to fruition

In the world of gaming, few franchises have managed to carve out a niche as unique and enduring as Twisted Metal. Known for its chaotic vehicular combat and memorable characters, the series has been a staple of PlayStation’s lineup since its debut in 1995.

However, fans of the franchise were recently hit with a wave of nostalgia and disappointment as details emerged about a cancelled Twisted Metal game that was in development for the PlayStation 5.

The cancelled Twisted Metal game, internally known as “Project Copper,” was being developed by Firesprite, the studio behind Horizon: Call of the Mountain. While PlayStation never officially confirmed the existence of this project, reports of Firesprite’s involvement began circulating online in 2022.

The game was reportedly cancelled last year, but new details have surfaced thanks to Hugo Silva, a lead UI programmer who was working on the project.

According to Silva, Project Copper was envisioned as a “3rd person vehicular action combat game” based on a classic IP owned by PlayStation. The game was set to introduce a significant shift in gameplay mechanics, incorporating third-person shooter elements alongside the traditional vehicular combat. The objective was to be the last one standing, effectively turning Twisted Metal into a battle royale game.

The Battle Royale Concept

The battle royale genre has seen immense popularity in recent years, with games like Fortnite and Apex Legends dominating the market. Firesprite and PlayStation aimed to capitalize on this trend by reimagining Twisted Metal as a battle royale game. Early images from Silva’s website, though labeled “under NDA,” highlight the battle royale concept, featuring generic characters engaged in third-person shooter combat. These placeholder designs would have likely been replaced by classic characters from the series or custom-designed protagonists.

The last new Twisted Metal game was released on the PlayStation 3 back in 2012, making it over a decade since fans have had a new entry in the series. The cancellation of Project Copper is undoubtedly frustrating for fans, especially considering the success of the Twisted Metal streaming series on Peacock. The absence of a new game to accompany the show’s popularity seems like a missed opportunity for PlayStation.

However, it’s possible that the decision to cancel the game was for the best. From the details revealed so far, Project Copper might not have delivered what fans have come to expect from the series. If the game had been released and failed, it could have potentially doomed the franchise for another decade or more.

The Future of Twisted Metal

Despite the cancellation of Project Copper, there is still hope for the future of Twisted Metal. PlayStation co-CEO Herman Hurst hinted back in December that the company is looking for ways to leverage its past IPs, offering a glimmer of hope that dormant franchises like Twisted Metal could make a return. Fans will have to wait and see if a new game finally materializes, but for now, the cancellation of Project Copper remains a tantalizing “what if” in the history of Twisted Metal.

In conclusion, the revelation of the cancelled Twisted Metal game has left fans with mixed emotions. While the concept of a battle royale Twisted Metal game is intriguing, it’s uncertain whether it would have lived up to the legacy of the franchise. As we look to the future, we can only hope that PlayStation finds a way to bring Twisted Metal back to its former glory.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Nintendo Switch Online will delist a game for the 1st time

Nintendo has announced that it will be removing a retro game from its Switch Online service for the first time. The game in question is Super Soccer, which will be delisted from the service on March 28, 2025. This marks the first time a game has been removed from the Switch Online retro library, raising concerns about the permanence of the service’s classic games catalog.

The removal of Super Soccer from the Switch Online service has sparked discussions among gamers about the future of the service and the potential for other games to be removed in the future.

Some players have expressed concerns about the possibility of losing access to their favorite retro games, while others have called for the return of the Virtual Console service, which allowed players to purchase and download individual games.

The decision to remove Super Soccer from the Switch Online service is believed to be due to licensing issues. The game was originally developed by Human Entertainment and published by Nintendo, and it is possible that the licensing agreement for the game has expired.

Nintendo has not provided any further details about the removal of Super Soccer or whether other games will be removed from the service in the future.

However, the company has assured players that it will continue to add new games to the Switch Online service, and that it remains committed to providing a diverse and extensive library of classic games.

The move was given the proper attention and one of the immediate reaction came from Hideki Kamiya and this is what PlatinumGames co-founder said:

Hey hey hey, I guess subscriptions are no good after all.

Seriously, bring back the Virtual Console… don’t be so mean.

Games, Gaming, News

LEGO classics and F.E.A.R. joins the GOG Preservation Program

In the ever-evolving world of video games, preserving the classics is a mission that resonates deeply with gamers and historians alike. The GOG Preservation Program, launched in November 2024, is a testament to this commitment. This initiative ensures that iconic games remain playable on modern systems, even after their developers have ceased support. Let’s dive into the latest additions to this program and explore the backstory of this noble endeavor.

Latest Additions: LEGO Games and F.E.A.R.

The GOG Preservation Program recently welcomed a slew of classic LEGO games and the horror shooter F.E.A.R. into its fold. These additions are not just about nostalgia; they are about ensuring that these beloved titles remain accessible and enjoyable for future generations.

LEGO Games: GOG has added 11 classic LEGO games to its Preservation Program. This includes fan favorites like LEGO Batman: The Video Game, LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures, and LEGO Pirates of the Caribbean: The Video Game. These games have been updated to ensure compatibility with modern PCs, running at a default 1080p resolution with V-Sync enabled and a locked 60Hz frame rate.

F.E.A.R.: In a move to honor the contributions of the now-shuttered developer Monolith Productions, GOG has added F.E.A.R. Platinum to its Preservation Program ahead of schedule. This collection includes the base game and its expansions, ensuring that the legacy of Monolith’s work lives on.

The GOG Preservation Program is more than just a collection of old games; it’s a commitment to preserving gaming history. The idea was born out of a recognition that many classic games were becoming unplayable due to technological advancements and the discontinuation of support from developers.

The GOG Preservation Program aims to ensure that classic games remain playable on modern and future systems. This involves updating games to be compatible with current operating systems, fixing bugs, and sometimes even enhancing the graphics and gameplay. The program also includes dedicated tech support and offline installers, ensuring that players can enjoy these classics without any hassle.

Community Involvement

GOG actively involves the gaming community in its preservation efforts. Players can vote for their favorite classic games to be added to the program, ensuring that the most beloved titles are preserved. This community-driven approach helps GOG prioritize which games to update and maintain.

The GOG Preservation Program is a beacon of hope for gamers who cherish the classics. By ensuring that these games remain accessible and playable, GOG is preserving a vital part of gaming history. Whether you’re a fan of LEGO adventures or the spine-chilling thrills of F.E.A.R., the GOG Preservation Program has something for everyone. So, let’s celebrate these timeless classics and the efforts to keep them alive for generations to come.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

Surprising Command & Conquer move by Electronic Arts

In a groundbreaking move that has thrilled gamers and developers alike, Electronic Arts has released the source code for several classic titles in the Command & Conquer series. This decision marks a significant milestone in the history of gaming, as it not only preserves the legacy of these iconic real-time strategy (RTS) games but also empowers the community to breathe new life into them.

The Command & Conquer series, often abbreviated as C&C, debuted in 1995 with Command & Conquer: Tiberian Dawn. Developed by Westwood Studios, the game was a pioneer in the RTS genre, introducing players to a world of strategic warfare, resource management, and gripping narratives. The series quickly gained a cult following, with subsequent titles like Red Alert, Renegade, and Generals cementing its place in gaming history.

Over the years, the franchise faced challenges, including the closure of Westwood Studios in 2003 and mixed reception to later entries. Despite these hurdles, the C&C community remained passionate, keeping the spirit of the games alive through mods, fan projects, and online forums.

The Road to Open Source

EA’s decision to release the source code for Tiberian Dawn, Red Alert, Renegade, and Generals under the GNU General Public License (GPL) is a testament to the enduring legacy of the series. This initiative builds on the success of the Command & Conquer Remastered Collection, released in 2020, which included remastered versions of Tiberian Dawn and Red Alert. The remastered collection was praised for its faithful recreation of the originals and its inclusion of modding tools.

The journey to open source was spearheaded by Luke “CCHyper” Feenan, a veteran of the C&C community and a key figure in the development of the remastered collection. Over the past year, Feenan worked closely with EA to restore the original source code archives to a buildable state. This meticulous process involved recovering and organizing decades-old files, ensuring that the code could be used effectively by the community.

What This Means for the Community

The release of the source code is a game-changer for the C&C community. Modders and developers now have unprecedented access to the inner workings of these classic games, enabling them to create new content, fix bugs, and even develop entirely new experiences. EA has also introduced Steam Workshop support for several titles, making it easier than ever for players to share and discover mods.

This move is not just about preserving the past; it’s about inspiring the future. By opening up the source code, EA has given the community the tools to innovate and expand upon the foundations laid by Westwood Studios. Whether it’s creating new campaigns, enhancing graphics, or experimenting with gameplay mechanics, the possibilities are endless.

The release of the source code is a bold step that underscores EA’s commitment to the C&C franchise and its fans. It acknowledges the importance of community-driven creativity and the role it plays in keeping classic games relevant in an ever-evolving industry.

As we look to the future, one thing is clear: the Command & Conquer series is far from over. With the passion and ingenuity of its community, these games will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

Terminator 2D: NO FATE: A Retro Revival

The Terminator franchise has always been synonymous with thrilling action and iconic characters. Now, fans of the series have something new to look forward to: Terminator 2D: NO FATE. This officially licensed 2D action side-scroller is set to launch on September 5, 2025, and promises to deliver a nostalgic yet fresh gaming experience.

A Love Letter to the ’80s and ’90s Arcade Games

Developed by Bitmap Bureau and published by Reef Entertainment, Terminator 2D: NO FATE is a heartfelt homage to the arcade games of the ’80s and ’90s. The game features stunning pixel art and adrenaline-fueled gameplay that captures the essence of classic arcade action. Players will control Sarah Connor, John Connor, and the T-800 in missions that retell the story of Terminator 2: Judgment Day while expanding its narrative.

The initial characters that are officially at the game includes:

  • Sarah Connor: Agile and reactive, Sarah excels in melee combat. Her playstyle reflects her intense training and paranoia, making her a formidable character in close-quarters combat. She also wields a laser sight inspired by the iconic Miles Dyson scene, which significantly boosts damage.
  • John Connor: As the leader of the Resistance in the Future War missions, John Connor’s gameplay emphasizes strategic mid-to-long-range combat. He uses a plasma rifle, pipe bombs, and three types of ammo. While less agile than Sarah, he can execute a tactical roll to evade attacks.
  • T-800: The T-800 moves deliberately, emphasizing his weight and power. He compensates for his slower speed with high durability, capable of taking significant damage before going down. Iconic moments like the Corral bar brawl and the motorcycle escape from the T-1000 are recreated in a 2D arcade style.
  • T-1000: One of the most legendary villains of all time, the T-1000’s liquid metal abilities are brought to life in pixel art. Players will feel the menace of Robert Patrick’s unforgettable performance as they face him in-game.

Terminator 2D: NO FATE offers multiple game modes, including Story, Arcade, Infinite, Boss Rush, Mother of the Future, and Level Training. Each mode provides a unique challenge and adds to the replayability of the game.

Preorder Details

Terminator 2D: NO FATE will be available on PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. Digital preorders will be available at a later date, so keep an eye out for announcements from Bitmap Bureau and Reef Entertainment4.

In conclusion, Terminator 2D: NO FATE is shaping up to be a must-play for fans of the franchise and retro gaming enthusiasts alike. With its faithful recreation of iconic characters and moments, combined with thrilling arcade gameplay, this game is set to be a standout release in 2025.

Business, Editorial, Featured, Games, Gaming, News

The Story Behind the cancelled Wonder Woman Game

In the ever-evolving world of video games, few stories are as intriguing and heart-wrenching as that of the cancelled Wonder Woman game. Announced with much fanfare in 2021, the game promised to be a groundbreaking addition to the superhero genre. However, despite the high hopes and the dedicated efforts of its developers, the game was ultimately shelved, leaving fans and creators alike to wonder what might have been.

The Wonder Woman game was set to be a single-player, open-world action-adventure, developed by Monolith Productions, the studio behind the acclaimed Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor and Shadow of War games. The game aimed to immerse players in the world of Themyscira, allowing them to step into the boots of Diana, the Amazonian princess, and experience her journey to unite her Amazon family with the modern world.

One of the most exciting aspects of the game was its planned use of Monolith’s Nemesis System, which had been a standout feature in the Middle-earth games. This system was designed to create dynamic relationships between the player and both enemies and allies, making each playthrough unique. In the Wonder Woman game, this system was to be adapted to allow Diana to form alliances and friendships with NPCs, adding a layer of depth and emotional engagement to the gameplay.

The Development Journey

According to past and present sources like late Game Informer and Polygon, the development of the Wonder Woman game was a tumultuous journey fraught with challenges. After the initial announcement, the project faced several hurdles, including shifting creative directions and internal restructuring. In 2024, the game underwent a significant reboot, resulting in the removal of the Nemesis System, which had been a cornerstone of the original vision.

The game was reimagined as a more traditional action-adventure title, drawing comparisons to the God of War series.

Despite these changes, the team at Monolith Productions remained committed to creating a game that would do justice to the iconic character of Wonder Woman. According to Gail Simone, a veteran comic book writer who served as a consultant on the project, the game was “gorgeous and expansive,” and every effort was made to ensure it would be a standout title. The developers poured their hearts and souls into the project, hoping to create an experience that would resonate with fans.

The Cancellation

In February 2025, Warner Bros. Games announced the closure of Monolith Productions, along with two other studios, Player First Games and WB San Diego. This decision was part of a broader strategic shift within the company, which aimed to focus on its key franchises such as Harry Potter, Batman, Mortal Kombat, and Game of Thrones.

The cancellation of the Wonder Woman game was a significant blow to both the developers and the fans. The project had reportedly cost Warner Bros. over $100 million and was still years away from release. Despite the best efforts of the team, the game was ultimately deemed not viable within the company’s new strategic priorities. The decision left many questioning the future of superhero games and whether other iconic characters would suffer a similar fate.

While the Wonder Woman game will never see the light of day, its story serves as a testament to the passion and dedication of its creators. The game’s development journey was fraught with challenges, but the team at Monolith Productions remained committed to their vision until the very end. Their efforts showcased the potential for innovative gameplay and storytelling within the superhero genre.

For fans, the cancellation of the Wonder Woman game is a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of the video game industry. Projects can be announced with great excitement, only to be shelved years later due to shifting priorities and unforeseen challenges. However, the dream of a Wonder Woman game lives on, and perhaps one day, another team will take up the mantle and bring Diana’s story to life in the way it deserves.

In the meantime, fans can continue to enjoy Wonder Woman’s adventures in other media, from comics and animated series to blockbuster films. The legacy of the cancelled game may serve as inspiration for future developers, who can learn from its trials and tribulations to create even more compelling and innovative experiences for players.

Games, Gaming, News

Gaming world react to WB Games holding an interesting patent despite Monolith Productions closure

The recent closure of Monolith Productions, along with Player First Games and Warner Bros. Games San Diego, has sent shockwaves through the gaming community. Monolith Productions, known for its critically acclaimed titles like F.E.A.R. and Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, was a beloved studio with a storied history.

The decision to shutter these studios was part of a strategic shift by Warner Bros. Games to focus on their key franchises, including Harry Potter, Mortal Kombat, DC, and Game of Thrones.

One of the most significant aspects of this closure is the fate of the Nemesis System, a groundbreaking gameplay mechanic introduced in Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor. The Nemesis System allowed NPCs to remember their interactions with the player, creating dynamic and personalized gameplay experiences. This system was patented by Warner Bros. Games, ensuring that no other developer could replicate it without permission.

Despite the closure of Monolith Productions, Warner Bros. Games retains the patent for the Nemesis System until 2036. This decision has sparked a range of reactions within the gaming community. On one hand, there is frustration and disappointment that such an innovative system may not be utilized to its full potential. The cancellation of the Wonder Woman game, which was reportedly going to incorporate the Nemesis System, only adds to this sentiment.

On the other hand, some see the retention of the patent as a strategic move by Warner Bros. Games. By keeping the patent, they maintain control over a unique and valuable gameplay mechanic that could be used in future titles. This could potentially give them a competitive edge in the industry, especially as they focus on their core franchises.

The closure of Monolith Productions and the retention of the Nemesis System patent highlight the challenges and complexities of the gaming industry. As studios navigate financial pressures and shifting market trends, decisions like these can have far-reaching implications for developers and players alike. While the future of the Nemesis System remains uncertain, its legacy as a pioneering gameplay innovation is undeniable.

In the end, the gaming community can only hope that Warner Bros. Games will find a way to honor the legacy of Monolith Productions and the Nemesis System in their future projects. Whether through new titles or by licensing the system to other developers, there is potential for this innovative mechanic to continue shaping the gaming landscape for years to come.