Tag Archives: Videogames

Business, Gaming, News

Jason Citron Steps Down as CEO of Discord

After nearly a decade at the helm of one of the internet’s most beloved communication platforms, Jason Citron, co-founder and CEO of Discord, has announced his decision to step down. This marks a significant transition for the company, which has evolved from a niche gaming chat app into a cultural phenomenon with over 200 million monthly active users.

Starting April 28th, leadership will officially shift to Humam Sakhnini, a seasoned executive known for his tenure at Activision Blizzard and King. While Citron is stepping away from day-to-day operations, he will remain on Discord’s board and serve as an advisor, ensuring that the company’s original vision and community-first ethos remain intact.

The Legacy of Jason Citron

Citron’s journey with Discord began in 2015, when he and co-founder Stanislav Vishnevskiy sought to create a better way for gamers to communicate online. What started as a simple fix for unreliable voice chat quickly grew into something much bigger—a digital home for communities, creators, and businesses alike.

Under Citron’s leadership, Discord expanded beyond gaming, becoming a hub for study groups, fan clubs, developers, artists, and even political activists. The company’s workforce has also grown significantly, with around 870 employees today.

Citron’s departure comes amid growing speculation that Discord is preparing for an IPO. Reports suggest that the company has met with investment bankers to discuss a potential initial public offering (IPO) as soon as this year.

While Discord has not officially confirmed these rumors, the hiring of a high-profile executive like Sakhnini has fueled speculation. In a recent interview, Citron addressed the IPO chatter with cautious optimism, stating: “We don’t have anything to announce, but as you can imagine, hiring someone like Humam is a step in that direction.”

What’s Next for Discord?

With Sakhnini at the helm, Discord is poised for its next phase of growth. His experience in scaling entertainment businesses and monetizing digital platforms could signal new revenue strategies for Discord, including potential advertising models and premium features.

As the company navigates this transition, one thing remains clear: Discord’s impact on online communication is undeniable. Whether it moves forward with an IPO or continues to operate as a private entity, its influence on gaming, tech, and broader digital culture is set to grow even further.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

LG Smart TV are the New Xbox – Literally

Microsoft’s Xbox Cloud Gaming continues to expand its reach, and its latest move brings the cloud-based service directly to LG Smart TVs and monitors running webOS24 or later. This development allows users to play Xbox games without needing an actual Xbox console, unlocking new possibilities for casual and hardcore gamers alike.

Microsoft has officially launched Xbox Cloud Gaming on select LG Smart TVs, allowing users to stream Xbox games without needing a console. The rollout includes 2022 OLED TVs, select 2023 LG Smart TVs, and newer models, as well as smart monitors running webOS24 or later versions.

If your LG Smart TV falls within this list, you can now stream Xbox games effortlessly, provided you have an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription.

What You Need to Play

To jump into Xbox Cloud Gaming on your LG Smart TV, you’ll need:

  1. An Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription – This gives access to hundreds of cloud-compatible games.
  2. A Bluetooth-enabled wireless controller – Supported controllers include:
    • Xbox Wireless Controller
    • Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
    • Xbox Adaptive Controller
    • PS5 DualSense controller

Once everything is set up, simply open the Xbox app on your LG Smart TV, sign in, and start playing!

Microsoft’s expansion into LG Smart TVs is part of its broader “This is an Xbox” campaign, aiming to highlight how Xbox gaming is no longer limited to traditional consoles. Players can now enjoy cloud gaming on devices like smart TVs, handheld gaming systems, and even web browsers, removing barriers to entry for next-generation gaming.

Additionally, the company has now opened up “stream your own game” functionality to all Game Pass Ultimate users, allowing them to stream select games from their own libraries instead of relying solely on Game Pass titles. This also means Xbox One users can play Xbox Series X/S games through cloud streaming, enhancing accessibility and cross-generation gaming.

Microsoft’s efforts in expanding cloud gaming suggest a future where physical consoles might become optional rather than essential. As TVs, monitors, and other smart devices integrate cloud gaming features, gaming might become more fluid, accessible, and device-agnostic than ever before.

With LG joining the cloud gaming revolution, we might see even more brands and platforms adopting Xbox Cloud Gaming, further pushing the boundaries of modern gaming convenience.

Featured, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered – A Legendary Return

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, originally released in 2006, was a groundbreaking RPG that set new standards for open-world exploration, storytelling, and player freedom. Now, nearly two decades later, Bethesda Game Studios has officially launched The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, bringing the beloved classic into the modern era with stunning visuals, refined gameplay, and a host of quality-of-life improvements.

The Legacy of Oblivion

Oblivion was a defining moment in gaming history. It introduced players to the vast and immersive world of Cyrodiil, where they could forge their own path as warriors, mages, thieves, or diplomats. The game’s Radiant AI system allowed NPCs to live dynamic lives, making the world feel alive in a way few games had achieved before. The gripping main quest, which saw players battling against the forces of Mehrunes Dagon and his Oblivion gates, remains one of the most memorable narratives in RPG history.

The Remaster – What’s New?

Bethesda, in collaboration with remaster specialists Virtuos, has meticulously rebuilt Oblivion using Unreal Engine 5, delivering breathtaking landscapes, enhanced character models, and improved animations. Here’s what players can expect:

  • 4K resolution and 60 FPS performance
  • Revamped textures, lighting effects, and weather systems
  • Improved enemy scaling and combat mechanics
  • Enhanced accessibility features
  • Updated UI for persuasion, clairvoyance, and other mechanics
  • Expanded autosave functionality
  • Refined first-person and third-person camera perspectives

Additionally, the remaster includes the Knights of the Nine and Shivering Isles expansions, ensuring players experience the full breadth of Oblivion’s legendary content.

Bethesda has embraced the nostalgia of long-time fans while ensuring that new players can experience Oblivion in its best possible form. The remaster retains the core gameplay that made the original so beloved while modernizing its visuals and mechanics to meet today’s standards.

For those who remember stepping out of the Imperial City’s sewers for the first time, seeing Cyrodiil in its remastered glory is nothing short of magical. The mist-covered mountains, shimmering lakes, and towering cities have been meticulously recreated, making every moment of exploration feel fresh and awe-inspiring.

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is available on Xbox Series X|S, PC (via Steam and the Xbox App), cloud gaming, and PlayStation 5. It’s also included day one with Game Pass, allowing subscribers to dive into Cyrodiil without additional cost.

For those seeking the ultimate experience, the Deluxe Edition offers exclusive quests, weapons, armor sets, and a digital artbook and soundtrack app.

eSport, Events, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

OpTic Gaming hosted and won the HCS Arlington Major 2025

OpTic Gaming has finally broken their streak of second-place finishes, securing a major trophy in the Halo Championship Series (HCS) at the Arlington Major. This victory marks a significant milestone for the team, which had been chasing a win for 18 months since their last major triumph at the Fort Worth Major in September 2023.

The Arlington Major was not without its challenges. A major power outage disrupted the event, but OpTic Gaming persevered, showcasing resilience and determination. After a less-than-perfect pool stage, the team found themselves in the lower bracket during the final stage. However, they rallied and embarked on an impressive run, defeating formidable opponents such as TSM, Infamous, Team Nemesis, Spacestation, FaZe Clan, and Shopify Rebellion.

Highlights from the Event

  • Lower Bracket Comeback: OpTic Gaming’s journey through the lower bracket was nothing short of spectacular. Their 3-0 elimination of Spacestation, a long-time rival, was a highlight of the tournament.
  • Grand Finals: The team faced Shopify Rebellion in the grand finals, delivering a performance that secured their victory and the trophy.
  • Prize and Qualification: OpTic Gaming walked away with a $100,000 prize and an earned qualification spot for the Dallas Open, the next major event in the 2025 HCS season.

This win is just the beginning of the 2025 HCS season. Teams will now prepare for the Dallas Open in May, followed by the Salt Lake City Major in August, and the FaZe-hosted Major in September. All roads lead to the Halo World Championship, where the best teams will compete for ultimate glory.

OpTic Gaming’s victory at the Arlington Major is a testament to their hard work and dedication. After months of near misses, this win is a well-deserved moment of triumph for the team and their fans. The future looks bright for OpTic Gaming as they continue their journey in the HCS.

Here is the roadmap and what’s left of the Halo Championship Series 2025 season:

Business, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Response to the Palworld lawsuit by Pocketpair revealed!

Pocketpair, the developer behind Palworld, has taken a bold stance in its legal battle against Nintendo and The Pokémon Company. The lawsuit, filed in Japan, accuses Palworld of infringing on patents related to monster-catching gameplay mechanics. Pocket Pair, however, has mounted a defense by citing prior works that utilized similar mechanics, arguing that Nintendo’s patents should not have been granted.

Revealed by Gamesfray, Pokectpair filed back in February its defense that went for two months under the radar and the TLDR is that Nintendo is conveniently pointing finger just for the mere selective pointing.

Pocket Pair’s defense hinges on the concept of “prior art,” which refers to previously existing works that demonstrate the mechanics in question were not novel at the time of Nintendo’s patent applications. The developer has listed several games and mods, including Rune Factory 5, Titanfall 2, Pikmin 3 Deluxe, Far Cry 5, Tomb Raider, and Final Fantasy XIV, as examples of prior art.

They argue that these titles already featured mechanics like releasing monsters or capture items, throwable objects, and targeting systems.

Additionally, Pocket Pair has pointed to its own game, Craftopia, as evidence that similar mechanics were already in use before Palworld. The developer also referenced mods like Pocket Souls for Dark Souls 3 and Nukamon for Fallout, as well as games like Monster Hunter 4G and Octopath Traveler, to bolster its case.

As you recall, the lawsuit was filed last year by Nintendo and instead of going of the aesthetic likeness that some Pals have with Pokémon creatures, had the Japanese veteran going for specific legal term with patents which some of the were granted in middle of the lawsuit’s run, specifically patents: 7,545,191, 7,493,117, and 7,528,390. These patents cover various game mechanics, including the use and activation of “rideable characters” and the process of aiming and throwing a captured item at a character to capture it in a virtual space.

Evidently, U.S. Patent No. 12,179,111 is the American equivalent and consolidated patent of the previous three.

In a first mode, an aiming direction in a virtual space is determined based on a second operation input, and a player character is caused to launch, in the aiming direction, an item that affects a field character disposed on a field in the virtual space, based on a third operation input. In a second mode, the aiming direction is determined, based on the second operation input, and the player character is caused to launch, in the aiming direction, a fighting character that fights, based on the third operation input.

Nintendo and The Pokémon Company are each seeking 5 million yen, plus late payment fees.

This case raises important questions about the balance between intellectual property protection and creative freedom in the gaming industry. While Pocket Pair’s defense challenges the validity of Nintendo’s patents, the outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future.

Games, Gaming, News

Respawn Entertainment shared the first look on the next Star Wars game from EA

Respawn Entertainment, in collaboration with Bit Reactor and EA, has officially unveiled their latest Star Wars game, Star Wars: Zero Company, during the Star Wars Celebration event in Japan on April 19, 2025. This single-player turn-based tactics game is set to release in 2026 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

Game Overview

Star Wars: Zero Company is set during the twilight of the Clone Wars, offering a gritty and authentic story that explores a fresh perspective within the Star Wars universe. Players will take on the role of Hawks, a former Republic officer who commands an elite squad of operatives from across the galaxy. The squad must overcome their differences to confront an emerging threat that could consume the galaxy.

Gameplay Features

The game emphasizes tactical operations and investigations across the galaxy. Players will have the freedom to create and customize their squad, tailoring appearances, load-outs, and abilities across various character archetypes, including Clone Troopers, astromechs, and even Jedi. Between missions, players will develop a base of operations and gather intelligence through a network of informant

Bit Reactor, known for its expertise in strategy games, is leading the development alongside Respawn Entertainment. The game promises deep turn-based tactical combat with meaningful outcomes from player choices, all presented in an approachable and cinematic style. The collaboration aims to deliver a unique Star Wars story that resonates with fans while introducing innovative gameplay mechanics.

Story Highlights

The narrative focuses on Hawks and his squad, offering a boots-on-the-ground perspective of the Clone Wars. The story draws inspiration from the political intrigue of Andor and the gritty battles of Rogue One, providing a fresh angle on the Star Wars saga.

Featured, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Xbox capacity of letting you buy games via mobile app is closer than ever

One of the promises that Microsoft claimed during the Preliminary Injunction against the purchase of Activision Blizzard King was to actually developing a mobile store and while it has been a GREAT WHILE about news regarding of this, Xbox is really close to make it a reality.

Microsoft announced that soon, you will be able to buy games and add-on content, join Game Pass, and redeem Perks directly from the Xbox app on mobile along with Xbox Console gameplay streaming.

We’re excited to announce that one of the most requested features from the Xbox community is coming to the Xbox app. Players will soon be able to buy games and add-on content, join Game Pass, and redeem Perks directly from the Xbox app on mobile. Be ready to play on day one by pre-ordering games like Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 and then set it to pre-install on Xbox consoles from the app. Buy games like Assassin’s Creed Shadows and MLB The Show 25. Players will also be able to join Game Pass directly from the Xbox app. Ultimate members can redeem Perks like the Sea of Thieves Seventh Serving Emote directly from the app.

This experience will start to roll out to beta users on iOS and Android and will be available soon for everyone on the Google Play Store on Android devices and the Apple Store.

It is speculated that while the internal store will go live, Microsoft is taking time with the capacity of playing the games with your iOS and Android device while attending the final stretch of the legal standing of Google on opening more its policy about 3rd party stores.

Game you own, game that you can play anywhere

One of the biggest promise that Microsoft had with Xbox Game Pass, mainly Game Pass Ultimate user, is that any game that you truly own because you paid for should be appearing in your Game Pass Cloud library.

In other words, gamer will be able to stream select games they own in addition to the Game Pass catalog on their Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles and Microsoft claims that over 100 games and expect to more games to join the catalog in near future. 

This update aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy to enhance accessibility and player-centric experiences, but the mobile store initiative might still be in development or part of future updates.

While it is an incredible feat, it appears that this doesn’t seem to be the promised mobile store that Microsoft discussed during the Activision Blizzard Preliminary Injunction hearings. During those hearings, Microsoft emphasized its plans to create a competitive mobile gaming store to challenge existing platforms.

Finally, in a minor update of Xbox ecosystem for April, expect a new feature on the game hub, where Xbox pulls up “relevant information” about a game, such as player stats, achievements, friends currently playing the game, events, and available add-ons.

Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Xbox relaunch of retro gaming classics cancelled due the need of further censorship

The recent cancellation of the Xbox One version of “Steam-Heart’s & Advanced Variable Geo Saturn Tribute” by Japanese publisher City Connection has sent ripples of disappointment and sparked a critical discussion within the gaming community. This compilation, intended as a loving tribute to two cult-classic fighting game series from the Sega Saturn era, was initially announced with considerable fanfare, promising to bring these beloved titles to a new generation of players across multiple platforms.

However, the rug was unexpectedly pulled out from under Xbox owners due to what City Connection described as significantly more stringent censorship demands from Microsoft compared to other platform holders.

To understand the weight of this cancellation, it’s crucial to delve into the history of the games themselves. “Steam-Heart’s”, released in 1996 by Jaleco for the Sega Saturn, is a unique 2D fighting game distinguished by its charming anime-inspired art style and a roster comprised entirely of female characters, many with distinct steampunk-esque designs. Its gameplay, while rooted in traditional fighting game mechanics, offered a unique flavor that resonated with a dedicated following.

“Advanced Variable Geo” (AVG), developed by TGL and spanning several iterations, primarily on PC before making its way to consoles like the PlayStation and Sega Saturn, is another series of 2D fighting games featuring an all-female cast. Known for its fluid animation and more mature aesthetic compared to “Steam-Heart’s,” AVG also carved out a niche for itself with its engaging gameplay and memorable characters.

The announcement of the “Steam-Heart’s & Advanced Variable Geo Saturn Tribute” was met with considerable excitement. Retro gaming enthusiasts and fans of these specific series eagerly anticipated the opportunity to revisit these titles with modern enhancements and on contemporary hardware. The initial announcement included releases for PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and importantly, Xbox One. This multi-platform approach suggested a broad appeal and a desire to make these classic fighters accessible to as many players as possible.

However, the recent statement from City Connection revealed a significant roadblock. While the publisher acknowledged that some level of alteration was necessary to bring the games to modern platforms – a common practice when dealing with older titles that may contain content that doesn’t align with current platform standards or regional sensitivities – the censorship or modification requests from Microsoft for the Xbox version were deemed excessively demanding. According to City Connection, these requests went “beyond what was required for other platforms,” ultimately leading to the difficult decision to cancel the Xbox One release.

The lack of specific details regarding the nature of the contentious content has fueled speculation and frustration. Was the issue related to character designs deemed too suggestive? Were there animations or in-game scenarios that triggered a stricter response from Microsoft’s content review process? Without concrete information, the community is left to fill in the blanks, leading to a spectrum of theories and criticisms leveled against the perceived inconsistencies in platform censorship policies.

This situation unfortunately paints a concerning outlook for similar retro re-releases on the Xbox platform in the future. If Microsoft maintains a significantly stricter stance on content compared to its competitors, it could deter other Japanese publishers, particularly those dealing with titles featuring anime-inspired aesthetics or content that might be perceived as borderline, from even attempting an Xbox release. This could lead to Xbox owners being consistently excluded from experiencing certain classic games, limiting the platform’s appeal for retro enthusiasts and potentially impacting its library diversity.

The cancellation of “Steam-Heart’s & Advanced Variable Geo Saturn Tribute” on Xbox serves as a stark reminder of the often-opaque and seemingly arbitrary nature of platform content moderation. While some level of standardization is understandable, the apparent disparity in requirements between Xbox and other platforms in this instance raises serious questions about the consistency and fairness of these policies.

For fans of these classic fighters on Xbox, the cancellation is a significant disappointment, and it casts a shadow of uncertainty over the potential for similar retro revivals on the platform moving forward.

The hope remains that greater transparency and a more consistent approach to content guidelines across all platforms can prevent similar exclusions in the future, ensuring that all gamers have the opportunity to experience gaming history.

Via Niche Gamer

Games, Gaming, News

This is what’s next from Bloober Team, the devs behind the remake of Silent Hill 2

Bloober Team, the Polish studio behind the critically acclaimed Silent Hill 2 remake, has officially released the trailer for its next ambitious project, Cronos: The New Dawn. This new survival horror title takes players on a time-bending journey through a dystopian future and the eerie remnants of 1980s Poland, blending psychological horror with action-packed gameplay.

Bloober Team has steadily built its reputation in the horror gaming genre, with titles like Layers of Fear, The Medium, and Blair Witch. However, it was their Silent Hill 2 remake that truly cemented their status as a powerhouse in psychological horror. The remake successfully captured the haunting atmosphere and emotional depth of the original while modernizing its mechanics, earning widespread praise from both critics and longtime fans.

With Silent Hill 2 proving to be a turning point for the studio, Bloober Team is now leveraging that momentum to push the boundaries of horror storytelling with Cronos: The New Dawn.

The Story Behind Cronos: The New Dawn

Set in a world where Eastern European brutalism meets retro-futurist technology, Cronos follows a Traveler navigating a post-apocalyptic wasteland in search of time rifts that transport them back to the 1980s. The game’s narrative unfolds across two timelines: the bleak future overrun by monstrous abominations and the past, where humanity is on the brink of The Change, a mysterious cataclysmic event.

The setting draws inspiration from the real-life Nowa Huta district of Krakow, Poland, adding a layer of authenticity to the game’s eerie atmosphere. Bloober Team’s Polish roots shine through in the environmental storytelling, making Cronos a deeply personal project for the developers.

Unlike Silent Hill 2, which focused on psychological horror and exploration, Cronos introduces a more action-oriented approach. The game features a unique “merge” mechanic, where fallen enemies must be burned completely—otherwise, they can fuse with existing creatures, evolving into deadlier forms. This mechanic forces players to think strategically, ensuring that every encounter is a tense battle for survival.

Weapons range from laser tripwires to heavy shotguns, offering a diverse arsenal to combat the grotesque creatures that lurk in the wasteland. The game’s combat system draws comparisons to Dead Space, with its emphasis on dismemberment and tactical engagement.

A New Era for Bloober Team

With Cronos: The New Dawn, Bloober Team is proving that it’s not just a studio known for remakes—it’s a creative force capable of crafting original horror experiences that rival the best in the genre. The game is set to release in 2025 on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC, though a specific launch date has yet to be announced.

As the gaming world eagerly anticipates Cronos, one thing is clear: Bloober Team is ready to redefine sci-fi horror, blending psychological depth with pulse-pounding action. If Silent Hill 2 was their proving ground, Cronos: The New Dawn is their bold next step into the future of horror gaming.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

Niantic running its 1st layoffs post selling gaming business that included Pokémon Go & Monster Hunter Now

Niantic, a pioneering game developer best known for its hit game Pokémon Go, has long been synonymous with augmented reality gaming. It earned a reputation for turning ordinary streets into magical gaming landscapes, encouraging players to explore the world around them while hunting for virtual creatures. Its innovative approach to gaming drew millions of players into its virtual worlds, blending physical activity and social engagement.

Niantic began as an internal startup within Google before becoming an independent entity in 2015. With Pokémon Go’s release in 2016, the company skyrocketed to fame, redefining mobile gaming by integrating AR technology into gameplay. The app became a cultural phenomenon, attracting players of all ages. Niantic continued to expand its portfolio with titles like Ingress and Harry Potter: Wizards Unite, cementing its position as a leader in the AR gaming industry.

However, even with its success, Niantic faced challenges. In 2023, the company had to downsize significantly due to financial difficulties and unmet internal goals. This included the closure of its Los Angeles studio and layoffs impacting 230 employees. These cuts highlighted the pressures of sustaining its ambitious projects and maintaining profitability in a competitive market.

Fast forward to 2025, Niantic has entered a new chapter with its acquisition by Scopely for $3.5 billion. Scopely, a renowned gaming company under Saudi Arabia’s Savvy Games Group, now owns Niantic’s gaming division. This acquisition has led to significant restructuring, including the formation of Niantic Spatial—a new entity focusing on geospatial AI technology.

As part of this transition, Niantic announced that it would lay off 68 employees, effective May 20, 2025. The layoffs, according to CEO John Hanke, are aimed at aligning the company with its new startup-like approach and geospatial AI focus. Hanke assured that these layoffs are not performance-related but are necessary for streamlining operations.

With Scopely’s involvement, there have been concerns among players about potential changes to Niantic’s games, particularly Pokémon Go. However, Niantic has reassured fans that the core experience of its games will remain intact under the new leadership. Despite the challenges, Niantic continues to boast a robust player base, with over 30 million monthly active users across its games.

The acquisition represents a pivotal moment for Niantic, as it shifts from its gaming roots to explore broader applications of geospatial AI. Whether this new direction will yield success and innovation remains to be seen, but Niantic’s journey thus far underscores its resilience and adaptability.