A 58-year-old man named Fumihiro Otobe from Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, was arrested for selling modified Nintendo Switch consoles loaded with pirated games. This is the first arrest of its kind in Japan.
Otobe modified second-hand Switch consoles by soldering hardware components to their circuit boards, enabling them to play pirated games. As reported by NTV News and translated by Automaton, he sold these modified consoles for approximately ¥28,000 (around $180) each, with 27 pirated games pre-installed.
Upon his arrest, police found four modified consoles in his possession.
In a public statement, Fumihiro Otobe said:
I was curious to know whether people would think I was great if I sold modified consoles.
This significant development marks a turning point in Japan’s legal approach to video game console modifications, which have long been contentious due to concerns about piracy and copyright infringement.
For Nintendo, this is the first arrest of its kind in Japan. The arrest highlights increasing efforts by authorities to crack down on such activities and protect intellectual property rights, acknowledging that modded consoles are not legally sold in major retail stores worldwide.
Nintendo’s efforts are aimed at protecting the integrity of its intellectual property and ensuring that game developers and publishers can continue to innovate and create new games. The company cooperates with law enforcement worldwide to pursue legal actions against those involved in piracy.
The year 2025 beckons with the promise of extraordinary gaming experiences, a year poised to redefine interactive entertainment with video games. From long-awaited sequels that reignite cherished franchises to ambitious new IPs pushing the boundaries of creativity, this year promises to be a landmark period for gamers worldwide. The anticipation is palpable, a collective breath held in eager expectation as developers unveil their masterpieces and players prepare to embark on unforgettable journeys.
The landscape of video games releases at 2025 is already shaping up to be a vibrant tapestry of diverse gaming experiences. Confirmed releases offer a tantalizing glimpse into the year’s potential.
Confirmed Releases:
The year will undoubtedly kick off with a bang, as several highly anticipated titles are confirmed to grace our consoles.
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, slated for a March 2025 release, transports players to the captivating backdrop of 16th-century Japan. This installment in the beloved franchise promises a thrilling blend of stealth, action, and historical intrigue, immersing players in a period of profound social and political upheaval. Players will embody a skilled assassin navigating the intricate web of Japanese society, experiencing the beauty and danger of this era firsthand.
Monster Hunter Wilds, scheduled for a Q3 2025 release, marks a significant evolution for Capcom’s iconic hunting series. By introducing a vast open world, the developers aim to enhance the sense of exploration and freedom, allowing players to traverse breathtaking landscapes while encountering and conquering a diverse array of formidable monsters. This shift promises to redefine the core gameplay experience, offering a greater sense of agency and immersion.
South of Midnight, anticipated for a Q4 2025 release, is a narrative-driven adventure game that promises a unique and haunting experience. With a focus on a captivating Southern Gothic atmosphere, this title aims to deliver a deeply immersive and emotionally resonant story that will stay with players long after the credits roll.
Rumored Releases (High Probability):
While not yet officially confirmed, several highly anticipated titles are rumored to grace 2025 with their presence.
Grand Theft Auto VI, the long-awaited successor to one of the most influential video game franchises of all time, continues to be shrouded in secrecy. However, persistent rumors suggest a late 2025 release window, fueling immense speculation and excitement among fans.
Starfield(next expansion), Bethesda’s ambitious space RPG’s next expansion, is expected to launch late this year, assuming Bethesda’s clarification that the first expansion, Shattered Space, was made with new assets and not recycling the game’s original assets and expect the same thing for the next expansion. While it was not confirmed officially, it is rumored that the next expansion will comply on offering players the opportunity to explore a vast and awe-inspiring galaxy. With countless quests to undertake and a deep character customization system, Starfield promises to be a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
The Elder Scrolls VI, though still in the early stages of development, has already captured the imagination of countless gamers. While a release date remains elusive, the mere possibility of a new Elder Scrolls adventure is enough to generate immense excitement and anticipation within the gaming community.
Doubtful Releases (But Still Possible):
Several highly anticipated titles face uncertain release timelines, leaving their 2025 fate shrouded in doubt:
Hollow Knight: Silksong, the long-awaited sequel to the critically acclaimed Metroidvania, has been in development for an extended period. While fans eagerly anticipate its release, the developers have remained tight-lipped regarding a definitive launch date, leaving the possibility of a 2025 release uncertain.
Perfect Dark (remake): Despite a Rare original game, back in 2020 it was confirmed that the other Xbox Game Studios, The Initiative was co-developing a Perfect Dark remake along with Embracer Groups’s Crystal Dynamics. Reportedly since then, Perfect Dark reboot development has faced significant hurdles and after being a The Initiative’s original involvement, Crystal Dynamics was brought into co-develop the game. Since no more details has surfaced and maybe people are in the expectations for some 2025, but I highly doubt a 2025 release.
Wild Cards:
The gaming industry is renowned for its unpredictable nature. Throughout the year, we can anticipate unannounced titles making their debut, potentially shifting the landscape of anticipated releases and surprising even the most seasoned of gamers.
Pretty much, the norm is that gaming studios and independent developers often unveil entirely new game concepts and franchises throughout the year. These surprise announcements can generate immense excitement and shift the focus of anticipation within the gaming community.
Along with the classic franchises can be revived through reboots and remasters, offering fresh perspectives on beloved games and introducing them to new audiences. These unexpected announcements can reignite nostalgia and generate significant buzz.
As challenging as the past year has been, for the gaming industry as much unfortunate, gaming acquisitions and mergers within the gaming industry can have a profound impact on the competitive landscape and the types of games being developed and honestly there is a chance that we might hear some news regarding of this aspect of the industry and hopefully, it can be converted as job cuts avoidance, but recent acquisitions proved that it is not necessarily avoid job cuts due redundance or instant duplicate workplaces due mergers.
Finally, and also an unfortunate thing to say it is unavoidable are unexpected challenges faced by development studios, such as unforeseen technical difficulties or internal issues, can lead to delays or even the cancellation of highly anticipated projects.
These “Wild Cards” add an element of unpredictability and excitement to the 2025 video game release landscape. They highlight the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the industry, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.
A Note of Caution:
It is crucial to remember that release dates are subject to change, and development cycles can be unpredictable. Unforeseen circumstances can lead to delays, and even the most promising titles may face unforeseen challenges. Therefore, it is essential to manage expectations and approach these anticipated releases with a degree of flexibility.
In a surprising turn of events, Sony has announced the cancellation of two more live service games, one of which was a highly anticipated God of War title. The affected projects were being developed by Bend Studio and Bluepoint Games, two of Sony’s well-regarded studios.
As part of Sony Interactive Entertainment past CEO Jim Ryan’s legacy, one of his last main task was having Sony announcing an ambitious plans to launch over 10 new live service games by 2026.
However, the company’s recent decisions indicate a significant shift in strategy. The cancellations follow the mixed results of their live service experiments, with notable successes like Helldivers 2 and notable failures like Concord.
BREAKING: PlayStation has canceled two more live-service games, from subsidiaries Bend and Bluepoint, Bloomberg has learned.Fans have long wondered what Bluepoint has been working on for the last couple of years. I can report it was a live-service God of War game. www.bloomberg.com/news/article…
The two cancelled projects were part of a larger initiative to expand Sony’s portfolio of live service games. According to Bloomberg reporter Jason Schreier, Bluepoint Games was working on a live service game set in the God of War universe. This news came as a shock to fans who had speculated about Bluepoint’s new projects since their well-received PS5 remake of Demon’s Souls.
Bend Studio, known for their work on Days Gone, was reportedly developing a new IP with multiplayer elements that built upon the open-world systems of their previous game. Unfortunately, neither project will see the light of day.
In response to the cancellations, a Sony spokesperson emphasized that neither Bend Studio nor Bluepoint Games would be closed down. The company is working closely with both studios to determine their next steps. Sony’s CEO Hermen Hulst had previously indicated a renewed focus on single-player games, which seems to align with the recent cancellations.
Needless to say that the cancellations have raised concerns among PlayStation fans about the future of Sony’s software lineup. With several live service projects scrapped, there is speculation that Sony may be shifting its focus back to single-player experiences. While this may disappoint fans of live service games, it could also mean exciting new single-player titles from Sony’s talented studios.
Sony’s decision to cancel these live service games marks a significant moment in the company’s gaming strategy. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Sony adapts and what new projects they will bring to the market.
In a recent turn of events, both Microsoft and Activision Blizzard have publicly denied claims regarding their financial performance, as reported by various sources. This comes amidst ongoing scrutiny and speculation about the financial health of the two companies, especially in light of their proposed merger.
A little back story…Microsoft and Activision Blizzard announced their merger agreement back in January 2022, with the deal valued at nearly $70 billion. The merger aims to create a powerhouse in the gaming industry, combining Microsoft’s technological prowess with Activision Blizzard’s extensive game portfolio.
The report came form The Information, which states that things were not lookign good for Xbox in2021 and pretty much and after a maratonic defense of the buyout of Activision Blizzard as a subsidiary of Microsoft Gaming (instead on being folded within Xbox Game Studios umbrella) in 2022, the purchase has not served the purpose of Xbox Game Pass capitalization.
To provide some context, Activision Blizzard’s financial results for the fourth quarter of 2022 showed a significant increase in net bookings, growing 43% year-over-year to a record $2.33 billion. For the full year 2022, the company reported net revenues of $7.53 billion, compared to $8.80 billion in 20211. Despite the slight decline in revenue, the company’s operating margin and earnings per share (EPS) remained robust.
Microsoft, on the other hand, has continued to show strong financial performance across its various business segments, including its gaming division. The company’s recent quarterly reports have highlighted growth in revenue and profitability, further supporting their stance against the claims made in the report1.
The denial of these claims (noted by Insider Gaming as sources are behind paywalls) is crucial for the ongoing merger process. Both companies have emphasized that the merger will enable them to better serve their players, create greater opportunities for their employees, and succeed in an increasingly competitive global gaming industry1. The deal, which has faced regulatory scrutiny and delays, is now expected to close by October 2023.
In conclusion, Microsoft and Activision Blizzard’s strong financial performance and denial of the claims highlight their commitment to the merger and their confidence in the future of the combined entity. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, this merger could set a new standard for innovation and growth.
As we are already at first half of the first month of 2025, I think is time to bring up the notion that the gaming industry is poised for a transformative year filled with groundbreaking advancements and exciting trends. From cloud gaming to virtual reality, mobile gaming to artificial intelligence, the landscape of gaming is evolving rapidly, promising gamers an unparalleled experience.
Let’s delve deeper into each aspect with supporting data and trends that highlight this evolution.
1. Rise of Cloud Gaming
Cloud gaming is expected to revolutionize the way we play games by eliminating the need for high-end hardware. According to a report by Newzoo, the cloud gaming market was valued at approximately $1.6 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow to $6.5 billion by 2025. This growth is driven by the widespread adoption of 5G technology, which provides the necessary bandwidth and low latency required for a seamless gaming experience.
Services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW, and Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Cloud (formerly Project xCloud) are at the forefront, offering expansive libraries of titles that can be streamed to various devices including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. This accessibility is democratizing gaming, making it more inclusive for a broader audience.
…And yes, in an alternate universe, Google Stadia leaded this segment of the gaming industry as even after its demise, its tech stack remains unmatched and DO NOT CHANGE MY MIND!
2. More Immersive Virtual Reality
Honestly, I am not into Virtual reality (VR) but of course, I will not ignore that this segment of the gaming industry continues to push the boundaries of immersive gaming.
The global VR gaming market was valued at $11.56 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach $92.31 billion by 2027, according to Grand View Research. This exponential growth is fueled by advancements in VR headsets such as the Oculus Quest 2 and the PlayStation VR2, which offer enhanced graphics, more intuitive controls, and improved comfort. Developers are leveraging these advancements to create rich, interactive stories and social experiences that allow players to explore virtual worlds together.
Titles like “Half-Life: Alyx” and “Star Wars: Squadrons” showcase the potential of VR to deliver deeply engaging narratives and gameplay. As VR technology continues to evolve, we can anticipate even more innovative and immersive experiences.
3. On the Rise: Mobile Gaming
Despite my admittedly original dislike on how he mobile gaming gained momentary a front seat ahead of console and PC gaming in the previous decade and how embarrasing its was “the leadership” (thanks for nothing people like Konami), but data suggest that the sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by the increasing power of smartphones and the release of high-quality titles.
According to a report by App Annie, mobile gaming revenue reached $98 billion in 2021, surpassing both console and PC gaming.
In 2025, this trend is expected to continue with the release of games like the BETA of “Destiny Rising ” and “Need for Speed Mobile,” which offer console-quality experiences on handheld devices. The convenience of playing games on the go, combined with the accessibility of smartphones, ensures that mobile gaming remains a dominant force in the industry.
4. Integration of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is in indeed a “11 bullet shirt” of a topic depending on who you are talking about it, but it indeed transforming the gaming landscape by enhancing gameplay mechanics and creating more dynamic environments.
AI-driven non-playable characters (NPCs) are becoming more sophisticated, capable of reacting to player actions in real-time and providing more realistic interactions. According to a study by PwC, the AI market in gaming is projected to grow from $3 billion in 2020 to $87 billion by 2025.
This growth is driven by the demand for personalized gaming experiences, where AI tailors challenges and content to individual players’ preferences and skill levels. Games like “Red Dead Redemption 2” and “The Last of Us Part II” demonstrate the potential of AI to create immersive and engaging worlds.
5. Esports Expansions
In my blog, I will try to covert a little bit more of Esports as a FGC competitor myself and while some view that the 2010’s explosive growth reached its peak, some view that a ressurgance is being observed, taking in account on millions of viewers and participants worldwide.
The global esports market was valued at $1.1 billion in 2021 despite the break that the recent pandemic of 2020 brought, and is projected to reach $1.9 billion by 2025, according to a report by Newzoo.
This growth is fueled by the increasing popularity of competitive gaming and the rise of mobile and cloud gaming platforms, which provide greater accessibility for players. Major tournaments, leagues, and sponsorships are emerging, contributing to the expansion of the esports ecosystem. Esports is not just a form of entertainment; it’s a cultural movement that brings people together from all corners of the globe.
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As we look ahead to 2025, the gaming industry is on the brink of a new era of innovation and immersion. With advancements in cloud gaming, virtual reality, mobile gaming, artificial intelligence, and esports, gamers can expect an exciting and dynamic year ahead. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore gamer, there’s never been a better time to be part of the gaming community.
Nintendo has officially unveiled its highly-anticipated successor to the Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch in 2025. The announcement came with a first-look trailer that showcased the new console’s design and features.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Nintendo Switch 2.
As per the first-look presentation, the Nintendo Switch 2 features a larger display compared to the original Switch, providing an enhanced gaming experience. The Joy-Con controllers have been redesigned to attach magnetically to the console, making them more secure and easier to use. Additionally, the Joy-Con now includes an optical sensor, adding new possibilities for gameplay.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Nintendo Switch 2 is its backward compatibility as Nintendo already confirmed late last year 2024. The console will support both Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games and existing Nintendo Switch games.
However, it’s important to note that some older games may not be fully compatible with the new system.
Nintendo has scheduled a Nintendo Direct showcase for April 2, 2025, where more details about the console and its release date will be shared. To give fans a hands-on experience, Nintendo will host experience events in various cities around the world, starting in April 2025. These events will be held in cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, Tokyo, and more.
What We Don’t Know Yet
While the announcement provided a lot of exciting information, there are still some details that remain unknown. Nintendo has not yet revealed the price of the Switch 2 or the full software launch lineup. Fans will have to wait for the Nintendo Direct and experience events for more information.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be an exciting upgrade to the beloved Switch console. With its larger screen, redesigned Joy-Con controllers, and backward compatibility, it’s sure to be a hit among gamers. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the release date!
GungHo Online Entertainment America has just announced the release of the LUNAR Remastered Collection, bringing two beloved JRPG classics back to life for a new generation of gamers. The collection, featuring LUNAR: Silver Star Story Complete and LUNAR 2: Eternal Blue Complete, will be available both physically and digitally on April 18, 2025.
Originally developed by GAME ARTS for the original Playstation, these games have captivated fans with their romantic storytelling and breathtaking soundtrack. The remastered edition not only preserves the heart of the original games but also introduces modern enhancements such as wide-screen support, high-definition pixel and animated art, and quality-of-life updates like customizable battle and strategy setting.
The collection will be available on PlayStation 4 (compatible with PlayStation 5), Xbox One (compatible with Xbox Series X|S), Nintendo Switch, and Steam. Digital editions are priced at $49.99 USD / €49.99 EUR, while physical editions will be available for $54.99 USD in North America and €54.99 EUR in Europe. The physical editions will feature reversible covers with new key arts illustrated by Toshiyuki Kubooka.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the LUNAR saga, this remastered collection promises to captivate you with its timeless charm and enhanced features. Dive back into the enchanting worlds of LUNAR and experience the magic all over again!
Exciting news for horror fans! The highly anticipated Until Dawn movie, based on the popular 2015 interactive drama horror game by Supermassive Games, is set to hit theaters on April 25, 2025. Directed by David F. Sandberg and written by Gary Dauberman, the film promises to expand the universe of the game while offering a fresh, standalone story.
Back in 2015 in the game, players control eight young adults who find themselves trapped on Blackwood Mountain. The story begins with the disappearance of two sisters, Hannah and Beth Washington, during a snowstorm. A year later, their brother Josh invites his friends back to the lodge to celebrate the anniversary of their disappearance.
As the night unfolds, the group faces various threats, including a masked killer, and must survive until dawn. The game’s unique butterfly effect system means that players’ choices directly impact the story, leading to multiple possible endings.
First Look at the Movie
Sony recently released the first look at the movie, giving fans a glimpse of what’s to come. The teaser trailer reveals that the film will incorporate a time loop mechanic, similar to the game. Characters will relive the same night repeatedly, each time facing different horror scenarios. Director David F. Sandberg explains that this approach allows the movie to capture the same tone and vibe as the game while expanding on its mythology.
The film will follow Clover and her friends as they venture into the remote valley where Melanie disappeared. They will explore an abandoned visitor center, only to be stalked by a masked killer. Each time they die, they wake up at the beginning of the same night, forced to relive the nightmare with different threats each time. The only way to escape is to survive until dawn.
Cast includes: Ella Rubin as Clover, Michael Cimino as Max, Odessa A’zion as Nina, Ji-young Yoo as Megan, Maia Mitchell as Melanie, Belmont Cameli as Abel, and Peter Stormare as Dr. Hill (a new character different from his role in the game).
Interest on the new studio called Rebel Wolves from Warsaw, Poland went high after last year’s Bandai Namco announcement that they were going to be the publisher for their first game and also, because the studio was founded by Konrad Tomaszkiewicz who served at CD Projekt Red’s The Witcher 3 Game Director and head of production/secondary game director for Cyberpunk 2077.
The result is The Blood of Dawnwalker.
“The Blood of Dawnwalker” is an upcoming single-player, open-world dark fantasy action-RPG set in 14th-century medieval Europe and follows the story of Coen, a young man turned into a Dawnwalker, who must navigate the line between the world of day and the realm of night.
The game’s first trailer, released on January 13, 2025, showcases the game’s cinematic and gameplay elements. The trailer reveals the dark and brutal world of Vale Sangora, where vampires seize the opportunity to rise from the shadows and claim power. Players will have to use Coen’s vampiric strength and human resolve to save his loved ones and face various foes, including humans, monsters, and the ticking clock.
Rebel Wolves team also includes Bartłomiej Gaweł, who was The Witcher 3’s art director, as well as writer Jakub Szamałek (The Witcher 3, Cyberpunk 2077, Thronebreaker), design director Daniel Sadowski (The Witcher), animation director Tamara Zawada (The Witcher 3), CFO Michał Boryka, studio head Robert Murzynowski and Mateusz Tomaszkiewicz as creative director.
The game will is being made with Unreal Engine 5 and will have a full gameplay reveal at summer (probably at Summer Game Fest 2025) and it is slated to be released on Playstation 5, Xbox Series S & X and PC.
The wait is finally over for fans of the iconic fighting game series as Capcom has released the highly anticipated Mai Shiranui gameplay trailer for Street Fighter 6!
Mai Shiranui, a fan favorite from SNK’s Fatal Fury series, has officially made her way into the Street Fighter universe. Known for her signature whip and lightning-fast kicks, Mai is set to bring her unique fighting style and charm to the game. The newly released trailer showcases her stunning new look and gameplay mechanics, giving fans a glimpse of what to expect when she becomes playable in early 2025.
The trailer reveals Mai’s stage, which is set in Aokigahara, Japan, her stage from Fatal Fury Special. Fans are thrilled to see her signature fire dancing with her trademark fans, a move that has become synonymous with her character.
Players can get Mai via direct purchase of the Season Pass or buying the in-game currency Fighter Coins to directly buy her if you are just for individual character purchase.
Mai Shiranui will be available to purchase begging in February 5, 2025.
With Mai’s release Capcom closes the circle of the Street Fighter 6 Season 2, of course, the expectations is that the roster for Street Fighter 6 continues to expand, adding more depth and variety to the game’s fighting mechanics as Capcom probably is preparing for Year 3 content.
