Tag Archives: Video Games

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Playstation started the engine for a busy gaming weekend

On June 4, 2025, PlayStation lit up the digital stage with a State of Play presentation that wasn’t just about slips of teasers or half-hinted secrets—it was a masterclass in balancing nostalgia with innovation. Over a brisk 40 minutes, Sony and its creative partners unveiled a slate of titles designed to pull fans deeper into both familiar worlds and uncharted realms of play. Today, we’re diving into every facet of the event, exploring both the official reveals and the industry-buzzed hints that promise to define the next gaming era.

The First-Party Feast: Revitalizing Beloved Franchises and Original Concepts

Sony’s official blog post served as the backbone of the evening’s announcements, delivering a clear vision of its upcoming lineup. In an era where every update matters, each reveal resonated as a promise—a blend of refined gameplay mechanics and fresh creative spirit.

Astro Bot: A Journey Through the Vicious Void

Led by Asobi, Astro Bot returns with a burst of creative energy. The game’s expansion comes in the form of five new levels set within the foreboding Vicious Void Galaxy. These stages are not merely testaments to the studio’s longstanding polish in platforming but are also intricately designed to push players’ reflexes alongside their puzzle-solving skills. Adding another layer to the experience is an updated, smile-enhanced version of the Astro Bot Limited Edition DualSense wireless controller—reminding us that gaming peripherals are evolving as enthusiastically as games themselves. This reveal underscores PlayStation’s attention to sensory connection and physicality in gameplay.

Baby Steps: Embracing the Charm of Quirk and Challenge

Few games can capture the bittersweet humor of navigating life’s “baby steps” quite like this quirky walking simulator. With a confirmed release date of September 8, 2025, the new trailer for Baby Steps delicately balances humor with innovative traversal mechanics. In its world, every misstep is a lesson, and its onesie-clad protagonist—named Nate in discussions among fans—faces odd challenges that combine literal and metaphorical obstacles. By elevating what could have been a simple journey into an art form of whimsical exploration, Baby Steps reminds us that sometimes, the joy is in the minutiae of everyday movement.

Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement—Dark, Dual, and Determined

For those who favor a bite of darkness with their action, the revived Bloodstained series did not disappoint. Titled The Scarlet Engagement, this side-scrolling 2.5D action RPG reinvents its narrative by introducing dual protagonists, Leo and Alex, whose distinct abilities encourage players to switch seamlessly between play styles. Set in a sprawling, haunted castle, the game promises meticulously choreographed combat encounters and puzzles that require both strategic depth and quick reflexes. This reveal is a bold reminder that legacy titles can be reimagined to push forward narrative and gameplay boundaries while staying true to what made them iconic.

Cairn: Climb, Conserve, and Conquer

Not every challenge in gaming has to come through conventional battle; sometimes it’s about survival. Cairn is a fresh take on the survival-climber genre, landing on PS5 with the promise of a truly interactive experience. With a release slated for November 5, 2025, Cairn challenges players to manage resources, plan every step of their ascent, and explore the treacherous mountain paths—all while contending with environmental hazards that feel both expansive and personal. A demo available on the PlayStation Store provides fans with a taste of its innovative mechanics, inviting players to test their endurance before the full plunge into this vertical adventure.

Digimon Story: Time Stranger—A World of Digital Bonds

Returning to a franchise that has long stirred the hearts of its devotees, Digimon Story: Time Stranger steps into the limelight with a refreshed narrative and enhanced character customization. Set to launch on October 3, 2025, the new trailer paints a vivid picture: vibrant digital worlds where every Digimon can grow in unique directions. As teamwork and strategy become pivotal in bonding with and evolving these virtual partners, the game promises to build upon past successes while ushering in a new era for the franchise on PS5.

Everybody’s Golf Hot Shots: A Swing into the Past and Future

In an unexpected twist that marries classic arcade charm with modern gaming innovation, Everybody’s Golf Hot Shots makes its triumphant return. With its release scheduled in September, the announcement was punctuated by a cameo from none other than Pac-Man—a whimsical nod to gaming’s enduring legacy. This blend of light-hearted sports action and a retro cameo not only offers a nostalgic experience but also rekindles the spirit of intergenerational crossover, creating a bridge between the golden age of gaming and today’s powerhouse experiences.

The Buzz Beyond the Blog: Rumors, Teases, and Industry Hints

While Sony’s controlled, first-party lineup painted a vibrant picture of the near future, the periphery of the event was rife with tantalizing teases and industry rumors that hint at even broader horizons.

Ghost of Yotei: A Mysterious Glimpse into the Unknown

Among the whispers that had fans buzzing even before the event began was the teaser for Ghost of Yotei. Though the reveal was more of a teaser than a full announcement, it set the stage for what might come—a gameplay deep dive scheduled for July that promises to explore layered narrative depths and innovative combat mechanics. The title appears poised to weave mystery and myth into a spellbinding experience, leaving fans hungry for immersive storytelling and dynamic tactical play.

Final Fantasy Tactics Remaster: Honoring a Strategic Legacy

No discussion of anticipated announcements would be complete without the industry’s long-standing plea for a Final Fantasy Tactics remaster. Hints—including a now-deleted tweet from the original director, Yasumi Matsuno—have stoked excitement that this beloved title might finally return, reimagined for the PS5 era with both its original charm and modern enhancements. While details remain under wraps, the promise of dual versions—both as a homage to the original and as an enhanced experience—could be the reassuring bridge for longtime fans and curious newcomers alike.

Shaping the Future: What These Announcements Mean for Gaming

At its core, the State of Play event on June 4 served as both a celebration of PlayStation’s storied past and a clarion call for its future. It reminded us that a console family is built not only on cutting-edge technology and exclusive titles but on stories that evolve with us. Here are some reflections on the event’s broader impact:

  • A Spectrum of Experiences: From the playful yet challenging levels of Astro Bot to the somber, intricate battles in Bloodstained, the lineup embraces both lighthearted moments and profound narrative journeys. This spectrum ensures there’s something for every kind of gamer—whether you’re here for the adrenaline rush of action or the quiet, introspective puzzles of a walking simulator.
  • Evolving Gameplay and Audience Engagement: With releases like Cairn, which emphasizes resource management and environmental challenges, and Baby Steps, which converts everyday hurdles into a narrative adventure, Sony is not merely rehashing old formulas. Instead, it’s evolving them. By partnering nostalgia with modern design philosophies, these games promise to engage players on multiple levels—emotionally, physically, and intellectually.
  • Bridging Generations: The surprise cameo in Everybody’s Golf Hot Shots, along with the potential return of classic titles like Final Fantasy Tactics and Final Fantasy VII Remake, exemplifies a daring vision: to merge the cherished memories of past gaming eras with the technological and creative possibilities of the future. It’s a call to both longtime devotees and new fans to experience a world where every play session feels like a dialogue with history—and a step toward tomorrow.
  • Industry-Wide Ripple Effects: Rumors surrounding titles like Death Stranding 2 and Wolverine are not just idle chatter; they hint at ambitions that could redefine cinematic storytelling in the medium. If these projects come to fruition, they will not only enrich the PlayStation ecosystem but also set new benchmarks for how interactive narratives are crafted and delivered.

Through its carefully curated announcements and well-timed teases, PlayStation has once again demonstrated that the magic of gaming lies in its ability to surprise, engage, and transform. The event has set high expectations, and as gamers and enthusiasts, we’re now left with a tantalizing glimpse of what the next few years hold.

As we await further deep dives—like the promised July gameplay reveal for Ghost of Yotei—and keep our eyes peeled for any hints regarding the cinematic scope of Death Stranding 2 or the raw intensity of a Wolverine title, one thing is clear: the new era of PlayStation gaming is not only bright but also profoundly exciting. For those who live and breathe this digital universe, these announcements are an invitation to explore, to imagine, and to engage with a medium that continues to captivate our collective imaginations.

Games, Gaming, News

These are the first Call Of Duty 2026 rumored details have emerged

The upcoming Call of Duty 2026 installment, rumored to be titled Modern Warfare 사 (Modern Warfare 4), is set to take players into the heart of a geopolitical conflict involving North and South Korea. Developed by Infinity Ward, this game is expected to continue the intense narrative established in Modern Warfare 3, where Captain Price kills General Shepard, and Makarov eliminates Soap.

Keep in mind, I have a policy of reporting mere rumors, but I believe that I should apply a bending to the rules for this occasion.

A New Setting: The Korean Peninsula

The campaign will reportedly feature three major factions:

  • Task Force 141
  • SAS (Special Air Service)
  • Republic of Korea Army (South Korea’s military)

These factions will work together to take down Makarov and the Konni Group, who are allegedly orchestrating false flag operations to ignite World War III. The game’s title, featuring the Korean numeral “사” (4), is expected to be used in promotional materials, emphasizing the campaign’s deep connection to Korea.

While the game will maintain a modern warfare aesthetic, it is expected to incorporate futuristic technology and weapons. This means players can expect advanced gadgets and weaponry, but not to the extent of Advanced Warfare or Infinite Warfare. The balance between realism and innovation will be a key focus.

Rumors suggest that Call of Duty 2026 will be exclusive to next-gen consoles, meaning past-generation platforms may not support it. Additionally, DMZ mode is expected to return, adding another layer of tactical gameplay.

The Call of Duty franchise has always been known for its controversial and immersive storytelling, and this new setting could bring a fresh perspective to the series. With North and South Korea playing a central role, the game could explore themes of espionage, military alliances, and global warfare.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

Ubisoft Forward 2025 will miss Summer Game Fest weekend

For the first time since its inception in 2020, Ubisoft has decided not to host its annual Ubisoft Forward event this year. The gaming giant, known for its blockbuster franchises like Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Rainbow Six, has traditionally used Ubisoft Forward as a platform to unveil upcoming titles, share development insights, and engage directly with its global fanbase. But in 2025, Ubisoft is taking a different approach.

Ubisoft leaned on not holding a standalone Ubisoft Forward showcase this year as per sources told Stephen Totilo. Instead, the company will participate in other major gaming events, including IGN Live (June 7-8), the PC Gaming Show (June 8), and Gamescom 2025. While Ubisoft has not provided a detailed explanation for this decision, industry analysts speculate that a combination of financial restructuring, game development delays, and internal shifts may have influenced the move.

Ubisoft has been undergoing significant internal restructuring, particularly following its deal with Tencent, which has led to the creation of a new subsidiary focused on its biggest franchises. This shift, along with cost-cutting measures and layoffs, suggests that Ubisoft is prioritizing financial stability over hosting a large-scale showcase.

I don't think Ubisoft has a big line-up for the rest of the year, plus it's in cost-cutting mode, so it's not shocking that they're skippingIt's still curious to me, though, that the AC Shadows roadmap only specifies releases through June with a vaguer later-this-year for the game's 1st expansion

— Stephen Totilo (@stephentotilo.bsky.social) 2025-06-03T23:03:50.204Z

Game Development Challenges

Several of Ubisoft’s upcoming projects have faced delays, including the much-anticipated Prince of Persia: Sands of Time remake, which is now expected to launch by March 2026. Additionally, Ubisoft has been working on expansions for Assassin’s Creed Shadows, as well as new titles like Anno 117: Pax Romana, Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era, and the next Ghost Recon game. With many of these projects still in development, Ubisoft may have opted to spread out its announcements across multiple events rather than concentrating them in a single showcase.

While the absence of Ubisoft Forward may disappoint some fans, the company’s presence at IGN Live, the PC Gaming Show, and Gamescom ensures that players will still receive updates on upcoming titles. Ubisoft’s decision to integrate its announcements into broader industry events could also increase visibility and allow for more organic engagement with the gaming community.

Additionally, Ubisoft’s restructuring efforts indicate a long-term strategy aimed at stabilizing its business and ensuring the success of its flagship franchises. While 2025 may be a quieter year for Ubisoft in terms of major reveals, the company is likely preparing for a strong comeback in 2026, with several high-profile releases on the horizon.

Ubisoft’s decision to skip Ubisoft Forward in 2025 marks a pivotal moment in the company’s evolution. Whether this move signals a permanent shift in strategy or a temporary pause remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain—Ubisoft is still very much in the game, and fans can expect exciting developments in the months ahead.

Featured, Games, Gaming, News

Unreal Engine wants to push (again) boundaries in game development

The State of Unreal 2025 event was a showcase of cutting-edge technology, innovation, and the future of game development. Epic Games unveiled major updates to Unreal Engine 5.6, introduced groundbreaking tools for open-world creation, and collaborated with CD Projekt Red to present a stunning technical demo for The Witcher IV. However, CD Projekt Red made it clear—the demo is not part of the actual game in development.

Unreal Engine 5.6: A Leap Forward

One of the biggest announcements was the release of Unreal Engine 5.6, which brings significant improvements to open-world development. Some of the key features include:

  • Fast Geometry Streaming Plugin: A new method for loading open worlds efficiently.
  • Nanite Foliage: A memory-efficient way to create dense, high-fidelity vegetation.
  • MetaHuman 5.6: Now fully integrated into Unreal Engine, allowing developers to create lifelike characters directly within the engine.
  • Engine-First Animation Workflow: Eliminates the need for external animation software, streamlining the creative process.

The Witcher IV Technical Demo: A Glimpse into the Future

CD Projekt Red collaborated with Epic Games to showcase a technical demo of The Witcher IV, running on PlayStation 5 at 60 FPS with ray tracing. The demo follows Ciri, a professional monster slayer, as she explores the never-before-seen region of Kovir. It highlights several Unreal Engine 5.6 features:

  • FastGeo Streaming: Enables seamless loading of large environments.
  • Nanite Foliage: Creates dense forests without performance loss.
  • Mass AI Crowd Scaling: Allows for realistic bustling cities.
  • ML Deformer: Enhances character animations with muscle movement.

CD Projekt Red’s Clarification: Not Part of The Witcher IV

Despite the breathtaking visuals and immersive world-building, CD Projekt Red emphasized that this is not gameplay footage from The Witcher IV. Instead, it serves as a technical showcase of Unreal Engine 5’s capabilities. The studio is still in early development for the next installment in The Witcher saga, and the final game may differ significantly from what was shown.

The State of Unreal 2025 reinforced Epic Games’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of game development. With Unreal Engine 5.6’s powerful new features and CD Projekt Red’s ambitious vision for The Witcher IV, the future of gaming looks more immersive than ever.

Breaking, Business, Games, Gaming, News

People Can Fly: A Studio at a Crossroads

People Can Fly, the Polish game studio behind Bulletstorm, Painkiller, and Outriders, has long been known for its ambitious projects and high-octane gameplay. However, the studio recently announced a major shake-up: the cancellation of two unannounced projects, Project Gemini and Project Bifrost, alongside inevitable layoffs. This decision marks a significant turning point for the company, which has faced challenges in securing publishing deals and financial stability.

The Fallout: Why Were Gemini and Bifrost Canceled?

The cancellation of Project Gemini was largely due to Square Enix’s lack of communication regarding its willingness to continue or terminate the project. Without clear direction from the publisher, People Can Fly was left in limbo, unable to move forward with development. Similarly, Project Bifrost was scrapped due to financial constraints and a lack of organizational resources. These setbacks forced the studio to regroup and scale down its teams, leading to layoffs that have impacted an unknown number of employees.

This isn’t the first time People Can Fly has struggled with publisher relationships. The studio previously engaged with 2K Games in hopes of securing a publishing deal, but ultimately never heard back from them. This silence left People Can Fly in a precarious position, unable to secure the necessary funding and support to bring its projects to life. The studio’s past collaboration with Square Enix on Outriders also had its share of difficulties, with reports of financial disagreements and unmet expectations.

What’s Next for People Can Fly?

Despite these setbacks, People Can Fly is still involved in major projects. The studio is currently co-developing Gears of War: E-Day alongside The Coalition, ensuring that it remains a key player in the gaming industry. Additionally, its PvPvE FPS Lost Rift appears to be unaffected by the recent cancellations. While the layoffs and project cancellations are undoubtedly a blow, People Can Fly has a history of resilience and innovation. Whether it can bounce back from this latest challenge remains to be seen.

The gaming industry is notoriously volatile, and People Can Fly’s recent struggles highlight the difficulties of securing stable publishing deals and financial backing. While the cancellation of Project Gemini and Project Bifrost is disappointing, the studio’s continued involvement in major projects suggests that it still has a future in the industry. Whether it can rebuild and regain its footing will depend on its ability to navigate the ever-changing landscape of game development.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, PC

GeForce NOW Native App Arrives on Steam Deck

The Steam Deck has revolutionized handheld gaming, offering PC-level performance in a portable form factor. Now, with the arrival of NVIDIA’s native GeForce NOW app, the device is unlocking even greater potential. This new integration allows Steam Deck users to stream over 2,200 games at up to 4K resolution and 60FPS, bringing high-end gaming experiences to a device that was previously limited by hardware constraints.

What Does the GeForce NOW App Bring to Steam Deck?

Previously, Steam Deck users could access GeForce NOW through a browser, but the experience was far from seamless. The new native app eliminates the need for workarounds, offering direct access to cloud gaming from SteamOS. Here’s what makes this integration exciting:

  • Expanded Game Library – Users can stream titles from Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass for PC, Ubisoft, Battle.net, and more.
  • Enhanced Graphics – The app supports HDR, DLSS 4, and NVIDIA Reflex, ensuring smoother gameplay and improved visuals.
  • Battery Life Boost – Since games are streamed rather than run locally, Steam Deck users can expect up to 50% longer battery life compared to native gaming.
  • Big-Screen Gaming – The Steam Deck can be docked to a TV, allowing users to play high-end titles on a larger display.

The Steam Deck is a powerful handheld, but it has limitations when running graphically demanding games. With GeForce NOW, users can play AAA titles like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, Monster Hunter Wilds, and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 at max settings without worrying about hardware limitations.

Additionally, the GeForce NOW Ultimate membership provides performance equivalent to an RTX 4080 GPU, meaning Steam Deck users can experience cutting-edge gaming without upgrading their hardware.

How to Get Started

Installing the GeForce NOW app on Steam Deck is straightforward:

  1. Switch to Desktop Mode – Open SteamOS and enter desktop mode.
  2. Download the App – Visit NVIDIA’s official site and download the Steam Deck version of GeForce NOW.
  3. Install & Launch – Follow the installation steps, then access the app from SteamOS.

For those unsure about committing to a paid plan, GeForce NOW offers a free tier, though it comes with limitations such as longer queue times and one-hour session limits.

The arrival of GeForce NOW’s native app on Steam Deck is a game-changer. It transforms the handheld into a cloud gaming powerhouse, allowing users to play high-end titles without worrying about performance bottlenecks. Whether you’re looking to extend battery life, access a broader game library, or experience RTX-powered gaming, this integration is a massive win for Steam Deck owners.

RTX on Deck: The GeForce NOW Native App for Steam Deck Is Here
The first GeForce NOW native app for Steam Deck is here. Stream it with the 6 new games available this week.
Source/Via
Business, Games, Gaming, News

CD Projekt Red Confirms Cyberpunk Sequel Has Entered Pre-Production

CD Projekt Red has officially confirmed during its Q1 2025 earnings call that the highly anticipated Cyberpunk 2077 sequel has entered pre-production. This marks a significant milestone for the studio as it moves forward with its next major project following the success of Cyberpunk 2077 and its expansion, Phantom Liberty.

According to CD Projekt Red, 96 developers are currently working on the Cyberpunk sequel. While this number is expected to grow as the project advances, the majority of the studio’s workforce—422 developers—remains focused on The Witcher 4, another major title in development. Other projects, such as Project Sirius and Project Hadar, also have dedicated teams working on them.

The studio has not provided a timeline for the sequel’s release, but given the complexity of AAA game development, it could take several years before the game enters full production.

Financial Performance

CD Projekt Red’s Q1 2025 financial report highlights the company’s revenue and profitability. Here are some key figures:

  • Total sales revenue: 226.3 million PLN (~$57.3 million USD)
  • Net profit: 86 million PLN (~$21.8 million USD)
  • Revenue from The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: 2.4 billion PLN (~$64 million USD)
  • Sales of Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty: Over 10 million copies sold

Despite a 14% decline in net profit compared to Q1 2024, CD Projekt Red remains financially strong, with continued revenue from its existing titles and expansions.

While details about the Cyberpunk sequel remain scarce, CD Projekt Red has hinted at ambitious plans for the game. Reports suggest that the sequel’s city will feel like “Chicago Gone Wrong”, and the developers are working on the most realistic and reactive crowd system yet.

Fans will have to wait for further updates, but with pre-production now underway, the future of the Cyberpunk franchise looks promising.

CD PROJEKT wraps up the beginning of 2025 – CD PROJEKT
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, which is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its release this May, has sold over 60 million copies Total sales of Phantom Liberty – the Cyberpunk 2077 expansion – have surpassed
Source/Via
Featured, Games, Gaming, News

Black Panther original game canned as Electronic Arts folds developer studio

In a surprising turn of events, Electronic Arts (EA) has officially canceled its highly anticipated Black Panther game and shut down Cliffhanger Games, the studio responsible for its development. This decision has left fans and developers alike mourning the loss of what could have been a groundbreaking addition to the Marvel gaming universe.

Originally announced in 2023, EA’s Black Panther game was set to be a single-player, open-world action-adventure experience, developed in collaboration with Marvel Games. The game aimed to immerse players in the world of Wakanda, allowing them to step into the shoes of its legendary protector.

However, new details have emerged revealing that the game’s protagonist would not have been T’Challa himself, but rather his son, Azari. The story was reportedly set to begin with Azari engaging in ritual combat against T’Challa, only for the battle to be interrupted by an invasion of Skrulls, who would ultimately kidnap T’Challa. This narrative twist promised a fresh take on the Black Panther legacy, introducing new characters and conflicts that could have expanded the Marvel gaming universe in exciting ways.

Why Was It Canceled?

The cancellation of Black Panther appears to be part of a broader restructuring within EA. The company has been making significant cutbacks, including layoffs across multiple departments. EA Entertainment president Laura Miele stated that the decision was made to “sharpen our focus and put our creative energy behind the most significant growth opportunities”.

Despite the cancellation, EA’s multi-title partnership with Marvel remains intact, with other projects—such as an Iron Man game—still in development. However, the loss of Black Panther has raised concerns about EA’s commitment to licensed IPs, as the company has been shifting its focus toward core franchises like Battlefield, The Sims, and Apex Legends.

The closure of Cliffhanger Games has left many developers heartbroken, with several expressing their disappointment on social media. Concept artist Karla Ortiz described the game as “detailed, rich, beautiful”, lamenting that the world would never get to see it. Game design director Sophie Mallinson praised her colleagues, calling them a “dream team” and urging other studios to “snap up anyone who was working on this project”.

What’s Next for Black Panther in Gaming?

While EA’s Black Panther project has been scrapped, fans of the character still have something to look forward to. Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, an upcoming game from Skydance New Media, will feature Black Panther and Captain America as playable characters. This project, led by industry veteran Amy Hennig, promises to bring a fresh perspective to the Marvel gaming landscape.

The cancellation of EA’s Black Panther game is a major loss for both Marvel fans and the gaming industry. The prospect of playing as Azari, battling Skrulls, and exploring Wakanda in an open-world setting was an exciting vision that will now remain unrealized. While EA continues to focus on its core franchises, the hope remains that Black Panther will one day receive the definitive gaming experience it deserves.

EA Cancels Black Panther Game, Closes Cliffhanger Games – IGN
Electronic Arts is canceling its planned Black Panther game and shutting down developer Cliffhanger Games, IGN has learned.
Source/Via
Business, Games, Gaming, News

Apple reportedly making a dedicaded Gaming App: A Game-Changer or Just Another Attempt?

Apple is making a bold move into gaming with its upcoming dedicated gaming app, set to launch across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV later this year. This new app will replace Game Center, centralizing game discovery, achievements, leaderboards, and player communication while promoting Apple Arcade. But how does this compare to past and present cloud gaming services like Google Stadia, Xbox Game Pass Cloud, Amazon Luna, and Blacknut? Let’s break it down.

Apple’s Gaming App: What We Know So Far

According to Bloomberg, Apple’s new gaming hub will be preinstalled on all compatible devices and will integrate with the App Store’s existing game catalog. The app aims to boost engagement, spotlight premium titles, and potentially increase Apple’s revenue from gaming, which already accounts for a significant portion of its App Store earnings. Apple has even acquired RAC7 Games, the studio behind Sneaky Sasquatch, signaling a stronger commitment to exclusive content.

Comparing Apple’s Gaming App to Cloud Gaming Services

Apple’s approach differs significantly from cloud gaming platforms like Google Stadia, Xbox Game Pass Cloud, Amazon Luna, and Blacknut. Here’s how:

1. Google Stadia: The Failed Experiment

Google Stadia was an ambitious attempt to revolutionize gaming by offering cloud-based streaming without the need for powerful hardware. However, it struggled due to:

  • High latency issues affecting gameplay.
  • Limited game library compared to traditional consoles.
  • Lack of developer support, leading to its shutdown in 2023.

Apple’s gaming app, in contrast, is not a cloud gaming service but rather a centralized hub for games already installed on Apple devices. This means no streaming, but a more curated experience.

2. Xbox Game Pass Cloud: The Gold Standard

Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Cloud allows users to stream AAA games on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and PCs. It thrives due to:

  • A massive game library featuring top-tier titles.
  • Cross-platform accessibility, making gaming seamless.
  • Strong developer partnerships, ensuring continuous content updates.

Apple’s gaming app lacks cloud streaming, meaning users must download games rather than stream them instantly. However, Apple’s tight ecosystem could make game discovery and engagement more seamless.

3. Amazon Luna: A Niche Competitor

Amazon Luna offers cloud gaming with a subscription-based model, focusing on channel-based access to different game libraries. While it has some advantages, it faces:

  • Limited game selection compared to Xbox Game Pass.
  • Dependence on Amazon’s ecosystem, restricting flexibility.

Apple’s gaming app could outperform Luna by leveraging its existing App Store infrastructure and Apple Arcade’s curated selection.

4. Blacknut: The Underdog

Blacknut is a lesser-known cloud gaming service targeting casual gamers with a family-friendly subscription model. While it offers affordable access, it lacks:

  • AAA titles, making it less appealing to hardcore gamers.
  • Strong brand recognition, limiting its reach.

Apple’s gaming app, with its exclusive content and premium titles, could attract a broader audience than Blacknut.

The Irony: Apple’s History of Blocking Competitors

Apple’s move into gaming comes with a layer of irony, considering its past treatment of Google and Microsoft in the gaming space. Apple has historically restricted cloud gaming services on iOS, making it difficult for competitors to thrive.

  • Microsoft’s Struggles with xCloud: Apple blocked Microsoft’s xCloud gaming service from launching on the App Store, forcing Microsoft to offer it via a web browser instead. Apple’s strict App Store policies prevented Microsoft from providing a seamless experience for Xbox Game Pass users.
  • Google Stadia’s Limited Presence: Google Stadia also faced challenges on iOS, as Apple’s policies made it difficult for cloud gaming apps to operate freely. Stadia had to rely on a web-based workaround, similar to Microsoft’s xCloud.
  • Microsoft’s Mobile Store Blocked: Microsoft had plans to launch an Xbox mobile store, but Apple stymied its efforts by enforcing restrictive policies that made it economically unfeasible.

Now, Apple is launching its own gaming app, seemingly embracing the very industry it once hindered. This move raises questions about Apple’s control over gaming distribution and whether regulators will scrutinize its monopoly-like behavior.

Final Thoughts: Apple’s Strengths and Weaknesses

Apple’s new gaming app is not a direct competitor to cloud gaming services but rather an enhanced gaming hub for its ecosystem. While it lacks cloud streaming, it benefits from: Seamless integration with Apple devices, Exclusive content through acquisitions like RAC7 Games and curated experience that could boost engagement.

However, it faces challenges:
❌ No cloud gaming, limiting instant access to games.
❌ Apple’s gaming reputation, which still lags behind Microsoft and Sony
❌ Regulatory scrutiny, as Apple’s control over gaming distribution could spark antitrust concerns.

Will Apple’s gaming app redefine gaming on its devices, or will it be another Game Center 2.0? Only time will tell. But one thing is clear—Apple is serious about gaming, and this move could be a game-changer for casual and mobile gamers alike.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

There’s life with WRC gaming after surprising dismissal of Electronic Arts

WRC has officially announced that NACON will be the new publisher for its video games starting in 2027. This agreement grants NACON exclusive rights to develop and publish official WRC games and eSports competitions for PC and consoles for six seasons, running through 2032.

As part of this partnership, NACON will begin developing an entirely new WRC game series, aiming to deliver an immersive experience that accurately reflects the championship and meets the expectations of both rally enthusiasts and new players. The games will feature official rallies, vehicles, teams, drivers, and sponsors, marking a complete reboot of the franchise with a fresh vision.

Alain Falc, CEO of NACON, expressed excitement about renewing the collaboration, stating that the company has gained solid expertise in translating rallying into a video game experience through its previous work with WRC between 2015 and 2023. FIA World Rally Championship’s Chief Marketing Officer, Arne Dirks, also praised NACON’s vision for the franchise and its ability to deliver great rally games.

The agreement covers the development and publishing of the official WRC games and eSports competitions, granting NACON exclusive rights for PC and consoles for six seasons, from 2027 through 2032.

As part of this strategic partnership, NACON will begin development of an all-new WRC game series, aiming to deliver an immersive experience that faithfully reflects the reality of the championship and meets the expectations of both rally enthusiasts and new players. The games will feature the official rallies, vehicles, teams, drivers, and sponsors among the many anticipated content elements. This project represents a complete reboot of the franchise, based on an entirely fresh vision, and marks an ambitious new chapter in the brand’s development.

“We are thrilled to renew our collaboration with WRC Promoter. This iconic license provides an exceptional playground to build a highly refined driving experience that lives up to the expectations of rally fans,” said Alain Falc, CEO of NACON. “Between 2015 and 2023, we had the opportunity to work closely with the championship’s official teams and many drivers, allowing us to gain solid and unique expertise in translating rallying into a video game experience. This new venture marks a major milestone: a fully reimagined project driven by a passionate and specialized team, with a clear ambition to elevate rally games to new heights.”

“After a comprehensive evaluation, we are delighted to have reached an agreement with NACON,” expressed FIA World Rally Championship’s Chief Marketing Officer Arne Dirks. “Their vision for the franchise stands out, and their expertise in delivering great rally games is unquestioned. We look forward to breaking new ground together in this collaboration, to truly turn the WRC games into epic adventures and offer gaming experiences beyond rally as we know it today.”

This announcement signals a major shift for WRC games, as NACON takes over from Codemasters, which previously held the license. The new direction promises to elevate rally gaming to new heights, offering players an experience beyond traditional rally simulations.