Tag Archives: Videogames

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Shift Up confirms Stellar Blade sequel development

Fans of Stellar Blade, rejoice! South Korean developer Shift Up has officially confirmed that a sequel to the critically acclaimed action RPG is in development. The news comes as part of a financial presentation shared on May 20, 2025, where the studio outlined its future plans, including the highly anticipated follow-up to Stellar Blade.

Shift Up’s financial roadmap revealed that the Stellar Blade sequel is scheduled for release before 2027. While details remain scarce, the confirmation alone is enough to excite fans who have been eagerly awaiting news on the franchise’s future. The studio also announced plans to expand the game’s reach across multiple platforms, hinting at a broader audience beyond its original PlayStation 5 exclusivity.

What to Expect from Stellar Blade 2

Although Shift Up has yet to disclose specific gameplay details, the sequel is expected to build upon the success of the first installment, which sold over two million copies by February 2025. The original game was praised for its fast-paced combat, stunning visuals, and engaging narrative, and fans are hopeful that the sequel will refine and expand upon these elements.

Additionally, Shift Up is working on another major project, Project Witches, a AAA action-RPG slated for release in 2027. This suggests that the studio is doubling down on its commitment to delivering high-quality gaming experiences.

Before the sequel arrives, Stellar Blade is set to launch on PC on June 11, 2025. This version will introduce new content, unlocked framerates, and platform-specific features, making it an exciting prospect for players who missed out on the original PlayStation release. However, the PC version has faced some controversy due to region-locking issues on Steam, affecting availability in over 120 countries.

With Stellar Blade’s sequel officially in development, fans can look forward to another thrilling adventure in Shift Up’s sci-fi universe. While details remain limited, the confirmation alone is a promising sign that the franchise is here to stay. As we await further updates, one thing is certain—Eve’s journey is far from over.

Stay tuned for more updates as Shift Up reveals additional details about Stellar Blade 2 and its future projects!

Featured, Gaming, Hardware/Console, News, PC

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

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

The Accusations: Nvidia’s Alleged Media Pressure Tactics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Breaking, Games, Gaming, Mobile, News

The return of Fortnite to your iPhone & iPad is official

After nearly five years of absence, Fortnite is finally making its way back to iOS. This marks a significant moment in the ongoing battle between Epic Games and Apple, a dispute that reshaped the conversation around app store policies, developer rights, and digital marketplaces. But what does this mean for gamers, and how will Fortnite’s return impact the mobile gaming landscape?

The Long Road Back: A Legal Battle for Control

Fortnite was removed from the Apple App Store in August 2020 after Epic Games introduced a direct payment system that bypassed Apple’s in-app purchase fees. This move led to a legal showdown, with Epic accusing Apple of monopolistic practices and Apple defending its ecosystem control. The battle raged on for years, with courts weighing in on whether Apple’s policies were fair or restrictive.

A recent U.S. court ruling found Apple in violation of a previous injunction, forcing the company to allow developers to direct users to alternative payment systems. This decision paved the way for Epic Games to resubmit Fortnite for App Store approval, signaling its imminent return that actually occurred.

Early this week, Epic Games via CEO Tim Sweeney revealed they asked the court to request Apple their rationale about withholding Fortnite approval despite an order that they should not continue with the behavior that started it all and that despite Apple was appealing the decision, Apple was denied to upheld the original order.

With the re-entry of Fortnite at the App Store, it seems that Apple is not too willingly to keep defying courts on their playing of interpretation of law and orders, at least for now.

How to Download Fortnite on iOS

Once Fortnite is officially back, players will have two primary ways to install the game:

  1. Via the App Store – Search for “Fortnite” and tap the “Get” button to begin downloading.
  2. Through the Epic Games Store – In regions where alternative app stores are allowed, players may be able to download Fortnite via Epic’s own platform.

Fortnite’s return to iOS is more than just a win for Epic Games—it’s a major shift in the mobile gaming industry. The ruling that forced Apple to allow external payment links could set a precedent for other developers seeking more control over their revenue streams. This could lead to greater competition, lower fees, and more choices for consumers.

Additionally, Fortnite’s comeback could revitalize mobile esports, bringing back competitive tournaments and events that were previously limited due to platform restrictions.

While iPhone users can celebrate Fortnite’s return, Mac gamers are still left in limbo. Apple terminated Epic’s ability to develop Fortnite for macOS in 2020, and the game has not received updates on the platform since. For now, Mac users will have to rely on cloud gaming services like GeForce NOW or Xbox Cloud Gaming to play Fortnite.

Fortnite’s return to iOS is a monumental moment for mobile gaming, signaling a shift in how digital marketplaces operate. Whether this leads to broader changes in app store policies remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Fortnite fans on iPhone are about to drop back into the battle royale once again.

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Games, Gaming, News

The latest on Marathon is hard to ignore despite being just rumors

Bungie’s upcoming extraction shooter, Marathon, has been the subject of intense speculation and controversy in recent weeks. From plagiarism accusations to internal morale issues, the studio appears to be navigating a turbulent period. Here’s a deep dive into the latest rumors and developments surrounding the game.

One of the biggest scandals to hit Bungie recently involves allegations of art plagiarism. Digital artist ANTIREAL accused Bungie of using her 2017 artwork in Marathon’s closed alpha without permission. Bungie admitted to the issue, attributing it to a former employee, and pledged to “do the right thing” for the artist. However, this marks the fourth reported plagiarism incident in five years, raising concerns about the studio’s art direction.

Internal Morale at an All-Time Low And Marathon being delayed

Reports indicate that employee morale at Bungie is at an all-time low, with developers worried about Marathon’s future. The studio has reportedly canceled its planned June marketing campaign, including a new trailer and pre-order launch. Additionally, the August open beta has been replaced with a series of smaller playtests, suggesting uncertainty about the game’s readiness.

While Bungie has not officially announced a delay, rumors suggest that Sony and Bungie executives are discussing pushing the game’s release to 2026. The mixed feedback from the closed alpha, where players described the game as “flat,” has fueled speculation that the studio may need more time to refine the experience.

Bungie’s acquisition by Sony for $3.6 billion was expected to bring stability, but recent events have cast doubt on the studio’s trajectory. Some developers fear that if Marathon fails, it could jeopardize Bungie’s future, especially after the Concord disaster.

Marathon was initially positioned as Bungie’s next big project after Destiny, but the negative reception, plagiarism scandal, and internal struggles have raised serious concerns. Whether Bungie can turn things around remains to be seen, but for now, the future of Marathon—and Bungie itself—appears uncertain.

Bungie Leadership Ignored Marathon Devs’ Repeated Warnings and PvE Requests, New Report Says
A new report reveals Bungie’s top leadership ignored repeated warnings and PvE requests from Marathon developers for years.
Source/Via
Featured, Gaming, Hardware/Console, News, PC

Intel presents the Arc Pro B-Series for more Itel Arc GPUs offering

Intel has unveiled its latest Arc Pro B-Series graphics cards at Computex 2025, introducing the Arc Pro B60 and Arc Pro B50 GPUs, designed for workstation applications and AI inference. These new GPUs are built on Intel’s Xe2 Battlemage architecture, featuring Intel Xe Matrix Extensions (XMX) AI cores and hardware-accelerated ray tracing units.

Key Features of Arc Pro B-Series GPUs

  • Arc Pro B60:
    • 24GB GDDR6 memory
    • 197 TOPS of AI performance
    • PCIe 5.0 x8 interface
    • Multi-GPU scalability for AI workloads
    • Targeted for demanding tasks like generative design, 3D simulation, and video editing.
  • Arc Pro B50:
    • 16GB GDDR6 memory
    • 170 TOPS of AI performance
    • Compact dual-slot design
    • Priced at $299, making it an affordable option for professionals.

Intel has also expanded its Gaudi 3 AI accelerator lineup, offering PCIe add-in cards and rack-scale server modules to support large-scale AI inferencing. The Project Battlematrix platform enables multi-GPU configurations, allowing up to eight B60 cards to work together, providing 192GB of video memory for AI models with up to 150 billion parameters.

Intel aims to challenge NVIDIA and AMD in the workstation segment by offering high memory capacities at competitive prices. The Arc Pro B50 and B60 GPUs will be available in Q3 2025, with full feature enablement scheduled for Q4 2025. Intel is collaborating with ASRock, Gunnir, Maxsun, Sparkle, and other partners to bring these GPUs to market.

These new GPUs mark a significant step forward for Intel in the professional graphics and AI computing space, reinforcing its commitment to open architectures and scalable AI solutions.

Computex: Intel Unveils New GPUs for AI and Workstations
Company extends the Intel Arc Pro GPU lineup to prosumers and AI developers, and announces Intel Gaudi 3 AI accelerator availability via rack scale and PCIe deployments.
Source/Via
Games, Gaming, News

What’s next after Death Stranding 2:On The Beach for Kojima Productions

Hideo Kojima, the legendary creator behind Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding, has officially revealed his next major project: Physint. This upcoming espionage game, described as a “next-generation action espionage experience,” is set to take at least five to six years to develop. While Kojima Productions is currently focused on Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, Kojima has already begun laying the groundwork for what could be his most ambitious stealth-action title yet.

Since parting ways with Konami in 2015, Kojima has explored new storytelling avenues, but fans have long hoped for a return to his espionage roots. Physint appears to be the answer to those expectations. Announced during a PlayStation State of Play event in January 2024, the game promises to push the boundaries of stealth-action gameplay while incorporating Kojima’s signature cinematic storytelling.

Kojima has stated that Physint will take several years to develop, emphasizing his commitment to crafting a truly groundbreaking experience. He has also hinted at his growing interest in filmmaking, suggesting that once Death Stranding 2 and Physint are complete, he may finally pursue directing a movie—a lifelong dream of his.

What to Expect from Physint

While details remain scarce, Kojima has described Physint as a project that will elevate digital entertainment to a new level. He has emphasized that the game’s story, theme, cast, acting, fashion, and sound will all be designed with a cinematic approach, blurring the lines between film and interactive storytelling.

The Future of Kojima Productions

Beyond Physint, Kojima Productions is also working on OD, a mysterious horror game in collaboration with Xbox Game Studios. With multiple ambitious projects in development, Kojima continues to redefine the gaming landscape, proving that his creative vision remains as bold as ever.

As we await more details on Physint, one thing is certain—Kojima is once again poised to challenge industry norms and deliver an experience unlike anything we’ve seen before.

Le film français : le premier magazine web des professionnels de l’audiovisuel
le premier magazine web des professionnels de l’audiovisuel – Le film français
Source/Via
Games, Gaming, News, PC

Final Fantasy XI being kept alive is thanks to their fans

For over two decades, Final Fantasy XI has stood as a testament to the enduring power of community-driven gaming. Originally launched in 2002, the MMORPG was a groundbreaking entry in the Final Fantasy franchise, offering players an expansive world filled with adventure, camaraderie, and deep lore. However, as time passed and newer titles emerged, the game faced the looming threat of closure. In a surprising turn of events, it was the unwavering dedication of its fanbase that ultimately kept Final Fantasy XI alive.

A Planned Farewell That Never Came

According to Final Fantasy XI director Yoji Fujito, Square Enix had been preparing to end support for the game’s PC version in 2024, following the conclusion of its Voracious Resurgence storyline. The company even considered shutting down the game entirely due to aging servers. The plan was to transition the game into “maintenance mode,” meaning no new content would be added, and only system upkeep would be performed.

Despite these plans, something remarkable happened—players continued to log in, maintaining the same monthly subscription fee of $11.95 since the game’s launch. Their enthusiasm and dedication sent a clear message to Square Enix: Final Fantasy XI was far from losing momentum. Seeing this, the developers decided to keep the game running, ensuring that the world of Vana’diel remained alive and thriving.

New Updates and a Bright Future

Instead of winding down operations, Square Enix surprised the community by announcing fresh updates for Final Fantasy XI. These include:

  • A new high-tier mission battlefield to challenge veteran players.
  • Gamepad configuration adjustments for smoother gameplay.
  • A new Morale gauge to enhance combat mechanics.
  • The ability to change a character’s race, offering more customization.
  • Expanded content for the Limbus battle system, adding depth to the game’s strategic elements.

The resilience of Final Fantasy XI is a testament to the power of its community. In an era where many MMORPGs struggle to maintain player engagement, this classic title has defied expectations. Even Final Fantasy XIV, the franchise’s modern MMO, acknowledged its predecessor by introducing a crossover Alliance Raid series that transports players to Vana’diel.

As long as players continue to explore its vast world, battle formidable foes, and forge lasting friendships, Final Fantasy XI will remain more than just a game—it will be a legacy!

Square Enix considered ending Final Fantasy 11 in 2024, but player interest was high enough to keep it alive even after 20+ years – AUTOMATON WEST
According to Final Fantasy 11 producer and director Yoji Fujito, the MMORPG could have ended support or even shut down completely.
Source/Via
Breaking, Featured, Games, Gaming, News

Activision Confirms Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile Will Sunset

In a surprising move, Activision has announced that Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile will be removed from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store on May 18, 2025. This decision comes just over a year after the mobile version of the popular battle royale game was launched in March 2024.

Activision revealed that the game did not meet expectations with mobile-first players, despite its success on PC and console. While the company expressed pride in bringing Warzone to mobile, it acknowledged that the experience did not resonate as strongly with mobile gamers as anticipated.

What Happens Next?

Although new downloads will no longer be possible after May 18, players who already have the game installed will still be able to access servers and matchmaking for online play. However, social features are being retired, and purchases of Call of Duty Points or Black Cell have been disabled.

Activision has also confirmed that future Warzone content will not be available in Warzone Mobile, meaning players will not receive updates or new features. Additionally, refunds will not be offered for purchases made within the game.

While Warzone Mobile is winding down, Activision is encouraging players to transition to Call of Duty: Mobile, offering special incentives for Warzone Mobile players who try out the alternative title.

The company has hinted that its Warzone Mobile teams are moving forward on other projects, though no details have been shared yet.

The decision to sunset Warzone Mobile marks the end of an ambitious attempt to bring the Call of Duty: Warzone experience to mobile devices. While some players may be disappointed, Activision appears to be refocusing its efforts on other mobile gaming initiatives.

For those who still want to play, make sure to download the game before May 18—because after that, it will no longer be available.

Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile Service Changes
Important Information about Service Changes for Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile
Source/Via
Games, Gaming, News

The legacy of Hideo Kojima at a 64 USB Drive of distance!

Hideo Kojima, the legendary game designer behind Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding, has always been known for his visionary approach to storytelling and game development. But what happens when a visionary like Kojima is no longer around to guide his studio?

He has already thought about that—and his answer is as unconventional as his games: a 64GB USB drive filled with ideas for Kojima Productions to carry on after his death.

As Kojima said during it’s interview with Edge for its 411 isse, the decision to create this digital vault of ideas stems from a deeply personal realization. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he fell seriously ill and underwent an eye operation. This experience forced him to confront his own mortality. Until then, he had assumed he would be able to create for as long as he lived, but the illness made him question how much time he had left.

In an interview, Kojima revealed that this existential reflection led him to prepare for the future of his studio. He didn’t want Kojima Productions to simply manage existing intellectual properties (Metal Gear, Death Stranding, etc.)—he wanted them to continue creating. So, he compiled his ideas onto a USB drive and handed it to his personal assistant, describing it as “kind of like a will”.

What’s Inside the USB Drive?

While Kojima hasn’t disclosed the exact contents of the USB drive, we can speculate based on his past projects and creative tendencies. Here’s what might be inside:

  • Game Concepts – Kojima is known for pushing boundaries in gaming. The USB likely contains ideas for new franchises, gameplay mechanics, and experimental storytelling techniques.
  • Narrative Structures – Kojima’s games often feature intricate plots with deep philosophical themes. His notes may include outlines for future stories that explore topics like memory, identity, and human connection.
  • Technological Innovations – Kojima has always embraced cutting-edge technology, from motion capture to AI-driven storytelling. His USB could contain ideas for integrating emerging tech into gaming.
  • Film & Multimedia Projects – Kojima has expressed interest in filmmaking. The USB might include concepts for movies, TV series, or interactive media that blend gaming with cinematic storytelling.

I gave a USB stick with all my ideas on it to my personal assistant – kind of like a will.

Perhaps they could continue to make things after I’m gone, here at Kojima Productions… This is a fear for me – what happens to Kojima Productions after I’m gone. I don’t want them to just manage our existing IP.

The Future of Kojima Productions

With Kojima’s ideas preserved in digital form, Kojima Productions has the potential to continue evolving long after its founder is gone. However, the real challenge will be interpreting and executing his vision. Kojima’s creative process is deeply personal, and his unique approach to storytelling is difficult to replicate.

Will Kojima Productions split into factions debating the true meaning of his ideas? Will they create games that feel authentically Kojima-esque, or will they forge a new identity? Only time will tell.

One thing is certain: Kojima’s influence on gaming will endure, whether through his own creations or the ideas he has left behind.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

Bungie Responds to Plagiarism Allegations in Marathon

The gaming industry is no stranger to controversy, but Bungie’s latest challenge comes from an unexpected corner—an independent artist who claims that the studio’s upcoming extraction shooter, Marathon, has incorporated their artwork without permission. The artist, known as 4nt1r34l, took to social media to express frustration over what they describe as blatant plagiarism of their designs, which date back to 2017.

The Allegations

The controversy erupted when 4nt1r34l posted side-by-side comparisons of their original poster designs and in-game assets from Marathon’s closed alpha. The similarities were striking, leading to widespread discussion among the gaming community. The artist lamented that this was not the first time a major studio had used their work without credit or compensation, stating that they had struggled for years to make a living while large companies profited off their designs.

Bungie’s Response

In a swift reaction, Bungie acknowledged the issue and confirmed that a former employee had included unauthorized assets in a texture sheet used in the game. The studio emphasized that the current art team was unaware of the oversight and assured the community that they were investigating how this happened. Bungie also reached out to 4nt1r34l directly, expressing their commitment to resolving the matter and ensuring proper credit and compensation.

This incident raises broader concerns about artistic integrity in the gaming industry. Independent artists often struggle to protect their work, and cases like this highlight the need for stricter oversight and ethical practices in game development. Bungie has pledged to conduct a thorough review of all in-game assets to prevent similar issues in the future, reinforcing their stance on respecting artists and their contributions.

While the situation remains fluid, Bungie’s prompt response has been met with cautious optimism. Many hope that this will lead to better protections for artists and a more transparent approach to asset creation in the gaming world.