Category: Gaming

  • Call of Duty Switch 2 May Launch in 2026, Black Ops 7 Possible

    Call of Duty Switch 2 May Launch in 2026, Black Ops 7 Possible

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft has made a deal to bring Call of Duty to Nintendo’s new handheld, with a possible release of Black Ops 7 by 2026.
    2. The delay in Black Ops 7’s release for Switch 2 is due to the unavailability of a development kit from Nintendo.
    3. Microsoft aims to launch Call of Duty games on multiple platforms from day one, but Nintendo has been selective about development tools.
    4. Call of Duty Mobile may be a simpler option for Switch, with recent job postings indicating interest in AAA mobile or Switch projects.
    5. Vince Zampella, co-creator of Call of Duty, has sadly passed away at the age of 55.

    Despite the boost in third-party support, the Call of Duty series is still missing from Nintendo’s new handheld. However, Microsoft has made a deal to bring the franchise to this console. The wait might not be long, thanks to an update from Jez Corden at Windows Central. He suggests that a game for Switch 2, possibly Black Ops 7, might be out by 2026.

    Delay in Release

    Corden responded to a question on social media regarding why Black Ops 7 wasn’t listed for the Switch 2 release. He mentioned that the reason for the hold-up was the unavailability of a development kit. It seems Nintendo was quite choosy about which studios got the tools at the start.

    Commitment to Multi-Platform

    As Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard progressed, it made a commitment to launch Call of Duty games on multiple platforms from day one. This makes it seem odd that Nintendo didn’t give more attention to the publisher. Still, Corden shared that “The first CoD version for Switch is almost complete and should be out in a few months.” He later added that 2026 seems like a more reliable date for a Switch 2 game.

    Future of Black Ops 7

    Now, many fans of shooter games are curious if Black Ops 7 is coming. With the help of DLSS, the specs of Switch 2 can handle more demanding games. The latest release from Treyarch is also set to launch on PS4 and Xbox One, which means that decent performance on the handheld is achievable.

    A port of Call of Duty Mobile would be a simpler transition for developers. Unlike Black Ops 7, Activision hasn’t faced issues with slow sales on mobile devices. A recent job posting from Sledgehammer Games suggests that the Android and iPhone versions might be a source of inspiration. The company is seeking a Senior Technical Artist who has experience with AAA mobile or Switch projects, building on their past work with Warzone titles.

    In June 2025, Activision confirmed that Call of Duty games were still on track for Nintendo’s handheld. If any technical issues have been resolved, the Xbox Developer Direct in January could be a good time for an announcement.

    Sad News in the Community

    In much sadder news, Vince Zampella, one of the co-creators of Call of Duty, has died at the age of 55.

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  • Ayaneo Pocket Vert: Play Dreamcast, GameCube, PS2 in Handheld Form

    Ayaneo Pocket Vert: Play Dreamcast, GameCube, PS2 in Handheld Form

    Key Takeaways

    1. Powerful Hardware: The Ayaneo Pocket Vert features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset, enabling it to run games from GameCube and PlayStation 2 at higher resolutions, surpassing traditional handheld limits.

    2. Advanced Control Features: It includes four shoulder buttons and dual touchpads, offering more adaptability and control options compared to the Analogue Pocket, making it appealing for diverse gaming experiences.

    3. High-Quality Display: The device boasts a 3.5-inch, 1600×1400 resolution display, enhancing clarity for pixel art and allowing for precise integer scaling, which is ideal for retro gaming.

    4. Competitive Pricing Challenge: The success of the Pocket Vert may hinge on its price point, especially as it competes with the Analogue Pocket, which is priced at $219.99.

    5. Retro Gaming Appeal: While specifications are important, the value of authentic retro handheld gaming remains significant, and the Pocket Vert’s features may challenge the Analogue Pocket’s appeal to retro gaming enthusiasts.

    Ayaneo introduced the Pocket Vert earlier this year, starting with teasers back in July, and just revealed detailed specifications last month. Now, YouTuber ETA Prime has managed to get a unit, offering a sneak peek at this new handheld device. Previous hints suggested that the Pocket Vert would compete directly with the Analogue Pocket, which features a 3.5-inch, 1600×1400, 60 Hz IPS LTPS display. This resolution is especially important for emulating Game Boy and Game Boy Color titles, as it provides a perfect 10 times the pixel resolution of the original 160×140 screens. This setup allows for precise integer scaling on both devices, significantly improving the clarity of the pixel art, which might otherwise appear blurry with an uneven integer scale. Additionally, the internal hardware is much more powerful than the FPGA-based Analogue Pocket, which is mainly aimed at Game Boy Advance games, showcasing a handheld that matches in screen and build quality while targeting a more high-end gaming experience.

    Impressive Processing Power

    The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset is significantly more powerful than any enhanced Game Boy Advance, allowing the device to run even GameCube and PlayStation 2 games at higher resolutions than the original consoles supported. Thanks to this robust Android processor, the Ayaneo Pocket Vert becomes a strong contender in the realm of handheld gaming, not just limited to 2D emulation. With access to the Play Store, native Android games could run smoothly, and features like Steam Link or cloud gaming might even enable playing modern console or PC games on this device.

    Enhanced Control Features

    Another major advantage of the Ayaneo Pocket Vert over the Analogue Pocket is its inclusion of four shoulder buttons and dual touchpads located beneath the D-Pad and face buttons. While it may not be flawless, the dual-analog controls and comprehensive button mapping options make the Pocket Vert a lot more adaptable than the Analogue Pocket. With a similar design but many more advanced control features, the Pocket Vert is starting to seem quite attractive. However, the biggest question surrounding this handheld is its price, which has yet to be announced. If it competes well with the Analogue Pocket, it may find it challenging to stand out against its less powerful FPGA counterpart.

    The Value of Retro Gaming

    Nevertheless, gaming is not solely about specifications. The success of the Analogue Pocket wasn’t due to its high specs; rather, the value of authentic retro handheld gaming is hard to underestimate. It’s understandable if you think that the ability to play GameCube games or stream from Steam doesn’t matter much for this type of device. But for those who just want to enjoy gaming without worrying about the distinctions between software emulation and FPGA-based hardware emulation, the Ayaneo Pocket Vert could make the Analogue Pocket a tougher sell, especially if it can offer a price close to the Analogue Pocket’s $219.99.

    As of now, the handheld is still awaiting ETA Prime’s complete review—or any full review, for that matter. There may be crucial issues that could affect its appeal, especially since the market for handheld gaming devices is more competitive than ever. This device also has to contend with Ayaneo’s own Pocket DMG, which features a stunning OLED screen. And one has to wonder if it might be more beneficial to simply attach a $12 accessory to your current phone instead!

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  • Asus ROG G1000 Gaming Desktop Teased Ahead of CES 2026

    Asus ROG G1000 Gaming Desktop Teased Ahead of CES 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus will launch new Republic of Gamers (ROG) products next month, showcasing them at CES 2026.
    2. A new Zenbook Duo and a GoPro-themed ProArt PX13 are also expected to be announced.
    3. Asus is teasing an upcoming gaming tower case, likely to be a complete desktop system.
    4. The ROG G1000 is anticipated to be a full desktop system, based on the pricing of the ROG G700.
    5. The focus is on AniMe Holo, a new display technology that creates animated images using an optical illusion.

    Asus has openly stated that a fresh lineup of Republic of Gamers (ROG) products will be launched next month. It’s been nearly two weeks since the company announced that CES 2026 will be the platform to showcase “what’s next in ROG gaming.” During this time, Asus has also hinted at the arrival of a new Zenbook Duo and a GoPro-themed version of the ProArt PX13.

    Details About Gaming Tower Case

    Recently, Asus has shared some initial information about an upcoming gaming tower case. At this point, it’s still uncertain if this will be just a case or an entire desktop system. If we look at the ROG G700 (2025), currently priced at $1,526 on Amazon, it suggests that the ROG G1000 is probably a complete desktop system rather than just a case.

    Focus on AniMe Holo

    Asus has not provided any technical specifications yet. Instead, the emphasis has been on the AniMe Holo, which is showcased several times in the video below. From what we can gather, AniMe Holo appears to be a new version of the AniMe Matrix displays that are featured on various ROG Zephyrus laptops. However, this time, it looks like AniMe Holo employs a persistence of vision optical illusion to create the appearance of animated images. For more information, please watch the video below.

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  • Rockstar’s GTA: Tokyo Plans Revealed, GTA 6 Maps Not Likely

    Rockstar’s GTA: Tokyo Plans Revealed, GTA 6 Maps Not Likely

    Key Takeaways

    1. Former developer Obbe Vermeij revealed that GTA: Tokyo was nearly a reality, but Rockstar ultimately decided not to pursue it.
    2. The team considered other international locations like Rio de Janeiro, Moscow, and Istanbul, but Vermeij doubts GTA 6 will explore settings outside the U.S.
    3. Vermeij emphasizes that Rockstar prefers familiar American locations due to the cultural significance and financial safety they offer.
    4. Development delays for GTA 6 highlight the increasing time needed for AAA game production, leading to fewer risks taken by Rockstar.
    5. While there are rumors about exploring South America, Vermeij believes the focus will remain on enhancing the Vice City experience.

    Despite the excitement building around the GTA 6 release date, some fans were hoping for a more surprising setting. Rockstar Games has mainly focused on places in the U.S., but a former developer has revealed that GTA: Tokyo was nearly a reality. However, Obbe Vermeij doesn’t think the maps in GTA 6 will go beyond American borders.

    Insights from a Former Developer

    Vermeij, who was the technical director for GTA 3, GTA: Vice City, and GTA: San Andreas, recently shared his thoughts during an interview with GamesHub. A part of the conversation revolved around whether Rockstar might be willing to take risks with locations in future games.

    The ex-Rockstar North developer disclosed that the team had looked at Rio de Janeiro, Moscow, and Istanbul as potential settings. Tokyo was reportedly the closest to actually happening. Vermeij mentioned, “Another studio in Japan was going to do it, take our code and do GTA: Tokyo.” However, Rockstar ultimately decided not to go forward with the idea.

    The Tokyo Concept and Its Roots

    The notion of a crime-focused adventure set in Tokyo isn’t new. GTA 6 Info points out that dataminers have previously uncovered hints about the city, and trademarks related to it have emerged. An anonymous source from Rockstar also confirmed these rumors. Nonetheless, Vermeij has doubts about the next game or its sequels exploring locations far from the United States.

    He further explains that given the vast amounts of money involved, the studio prefers familiar settings like Vice City. According to Vermeij, “America is basically the epicenter of Western culture.” This satire surrounding American culture has become a hallmark of the series.

    Development Challenges and Future Directions

    The ongoing delays in the GTA 6 release date serve as additional proof that AAA games are taking longer to develop. With fewer Grand Theft Auto games expected, Rockstar is not likely to take many risks. Moreover, technology allows developers to add details and depth, making the same maps feel fresh.

    Other leaks have suggested that GTA 6 could explore South America. Vermeij agrees that the game’s themes align well with the criminal underworld found in places like Colombia. Still, he believes the focus will be on creating a more authentic Vice City experience.

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  • The Last Ninja Collection: 7 C64, Amiga, ZX Spectrum Classics on Steam

    The Last Ninja Collection: 7 C64, Amiga, ZX Spectrum Classics on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Last Ninja Collection + Bonus Games is now available on Steam, priced at $29.99, after a delay from its planned November release.
    2. The collection features seven classic titles, including the complete Last Ninja Trilogy and a remixed Ninja Edition with enhanced graphics and sound.
    3. Additional bonus games include International Karate, International Karate+, and Bangkok Knights for various platforms.
    4. The collection supports controllers, split-screen multiplayer, and keyboard-only gameplay, requiring a 4th Gen Intel CPU and 1GB of RAM.
    5. A physical collector’s edition will be available for pre-order soon, with full versions for PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch set for early 2026.

    The Last Ninja Collection + Bonus Games has arrived on Steam after a delay from its planned release in November. Fans can now enjoy faithful recreations of the classic games that were originally available on the Commodore 64, Amiga, and ZX Spectrum. The collection is priced at 29.99 on Steam.

    A Treasure Trove of Classics

    This bundle includes seven legendary titles for the first time ever. It brings together the complete Last Ninja Trilogy, showcasing all the versions from the Commodore 64, Amiga, and ZX Spectrum.

    In addition, the collection offers a remixed Ninja Edition with improved graphics and sound. It also comes with extra games such as International Karate for both the Spectrum and Commodore 64, the award-winning International Karate+ for the C64, Spectrum, and Amiga, along with Bangkok Knights for the Commodore 64 and Amiga.

    Words from the Creator

    Mark Cale, the founder and CEO of System 3, expressed his excitement about the launch, saying:

    I feel very proud to bring The Last Ninja Collection + Bonus Games to Steam today, allowing fans to play them just like they were meant to on the original machines, honoring all those who have loved the series over the years.

    He added:

    Having designed and published these games myself, it has always been important to me to safeguard their legacy. The Last Ninja became one of the key releases of the 8-bit and 16-bit era and has become the best-selling C64 game series, with over 23 million copies sold worldwide.

    Features and Future Plans

    The Steam version of The Last Ninja Collection + Bonus Games also includes support for controllers, split-screen multiplayer, and keyboard-only gameplay. Users will need a 4th Gen Intel CPU and 1GB of RAM to run it smoothly.

    But that’s not all. A physical collector’s edition will soon be available for pre-order exclusively through System 3’s website. This edition features a PC version on DVD, which can also be downloaded digitally via a Steam code. Full physical versions for PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch are slated for the first quarter of 2026, while the Xbox edition will be available only in digital format.

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  • Mangmi Pocket Max Specs: Processor, RAM, and Storage Details Leaked

    Mangmi Pocket Max Specs: Processor, RAM, and Storage Details Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Mangmi Pocket Max will use the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor, which is also used in the Retroid Pocket 5 and AYN Thor Lite.
    2. Pricing for the Pocket Max may be similar to the Retroid Pocket 5, which is currently priced at $199.
    3. The Pocket Max is expected to have a 7-inch 144Hz OLED display, offering a larger and faster screen compared to the Pocket 5’s 5.5-inch 60Hz OLED display.
    4. There is speculation about potential different models of the Pocket Max with more powerful chipsets and higher RAM/storage options.
    5. Key details such as battery capacity, charging speed, Android version, and final pricing are still unknown and expected to be revealed soon.

    Mangmi has been gradually unveiling information about its new handheld device, the Pocket Max. Earlier today, they posted some important details, including the processor, on X, but quickly removed the post afterward. Fortunately, a user on Reddit managed to capture the information before it disappeared.

    Processor Specs Revealed

    From the now-removed post, it appears that the Mangmi Pocket Max will utilize the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor, which is also found in the Retroid Pocket 5 and the AYN Thor Lite. While this processor is quite capable, it’s starting to show its age, especially given when the Pocket Max is set to launch. However, if the price is similar to the Mangmi Air X, it might not be too disappointing.

    Pricing Comparisons

    Currently, Retroid offers the Pocket 5 for $199. This device features the Snapdragon 865 processor, along with 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage, similar to what is expected in the Pocket Max. Still, the Pocket Max seems to have an edge with its impressive 7-inch 144Hz OLED display, while the Pocket 5 sports a smaller 5.5-inch 60Hz OLED display.

    Speculation and Future Details

    It’s unclear why Mangmi decided to take down the post, but some believe there might be different models with more powerful chipsets, and potentially higher RAM and storage options. This wouldn’t be surprising, as other brands like AYN, Ayaneo, and Retroid often follow similar practices. Whether the Mangmi Pocket Max will offer such variations remains uncertain.

    A number of details about the Pocket Max are still left unknown, including the battery capacity, charging speed, Android version, and, most importantly, the price. Hopefully, all these details will be shared before the month comes to a close.

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  • GTA 6 May Evolve into an MMO: What to Expect

    GTA 6 May Evolve into an MMO: What to Expect

    Key Takeaways

    1. GTA Online focuses on fast-paced, action-oriented gameplay rather than traditional role-playing elements.
    2. Richard Vogel, an experienced MMO developer, suggests that GTA 6 Online may adopt features from classic MMORPGs.
    3. Potential enhancements for GTA 6 Online could include defined roles, better social interactions, and a dynamic game world.
    4. The speculation about GTA 6 Online’s direction increased after Rockstar acquired Cfx.re, known for its popular role-playing mod, FiveM.
    5. Rockstar has not officially confirmed any plans related to the integration of Cfx.re’s features into GTA 6 Online.

    GTA Online offers a strong multiplayer experience, emphasizing fast-paced, action-packed gameplay instead of traditional role-playing elements. Nevertheless, there is a growing belief that GTA 6 Online might transition towards a more complex MMORPG-style framework.

    Insights from a Developer

    This speculation comes from an interview on Wccftech with Richard Vogel, a developer who has a wealth of experience in the MMO industry. Having contributed to games such as Ultima Online, Star Wars: The Old Republic, and New World, Vogel shared that he has heard from sources within the industry that many intended features for GTA 6 Online closely mirror the mechanics found in classic MMORPGs.

    Potential Development Directions

    GTA Online has already established itself as a persistent online environment, characterized by regular updates, live events, and ongoing player progression. Vogel suggests that Rockstar may seek to enhance this foundation by introducing more specific roles, enriched social interactions, and a dynamic game world that evolves over time—all of which are essential elements of contemporary MMORPGs. It’s crucial to highlight that Vogel is not directly involved in the development of GTA 6; his comments are based solely on his extensive industry knowledge, market insights, and discussions within the field.

    Growing Speculation

    The rumors gained traction after Rockstar’s acquisition of Cfx.re in August 2023, the team responsible for FiveM, a hugely popular mod for GTA 5. FiveM features organized role-playing systems with defined jobs like police officer or medic, along with persistent servers and a strong emphasis on community-generated content. At times, this mod even outperformed the official GTA Online in terms of popularity on Steam. This indicates that Rockstar might be planning to leverage Cfx.re’s expertise to enhance its vision for online multiplayer. However, neither Rockstar nor its parent company, Take-Two, has publicly confirmed any such initiatives.

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  • Nintendo and Ubisoft Collaboration Could Boost Many Switch 2 Games

    Nintendo and Ubisoft Collaboration Could Boost Many Switch 2 Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Third-party games on Switch 2, like Assassin’s Creed Shadows, show smooth gameplay at lower frame rates, while some titles struggle with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) issues.
    2. The Switch 2 lacks VRR support while docked, causing frustration for handheld users.
    3. Hitman World of Assassination faced performance issues, with frame rates inconsistent between 30 and 40fps, and a patch limiting it to 30fps was deemed unsatisfactory.
    4. Ubisoft has developed an algorithm to maintain VRR at 30fps in some games, and they are working with Nintendo to enhance VRR support across the console.
    5. Ubisoft believes DLSS technology has untapped potential and can improve performance, but many developers have been hesitant to adopt it.

    Third-party Switch 2 games like Assassin’s Creed Shadows show smooth gameplay even when running at lower frame rates. On the other hand, some other titles do not take full advantage of Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), leading to issues like stuttering. In a discussion with FRVR, Ubisoft developers shared how they tackled these limitations of the feature. The company is also providing its knowledge to Nintendo, potentially benefiting a wider range of games.

    Concerns with VRR on Switch 2

    Despite the modern features of Nintendo’s latest console, players have pointed out a few disadvantages. One major issue concerning the Switch 2’s specs is the lack of VRR support while docked, which tends to frustrate gamers during handheld use.

    Performance Issues with Hitman

    According to an analysis from Digital Foundry, Hitman World of Assassination was released with uneven visuals. Even though the frame rates were unlocked, they commonly hovered between 30 and 40fps. The testers suggested that an important feature meant to enhance performance was malfunctioning. A patch limited the frame rates to 30fps, but many players did not see this as a satisfactory fix.

    Solutions for Frame Rate Problems

    The choppiness present in some Switch 2 games seems to stem from the handheld’s VRR struggling below 40fps. In both Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Star Wars Outlaws, Ubisoft utilized an algorithm to keep VRR operational even at 30fps. As they explained to FRVR, “The same frame is effectively presented twice, once in the middle of the frame and again at the end, so the hardware outputs at a 60Hz interval while maintaining smooth visuals.”

    Low Frame-rate Compensation (LFC) could assist other titles, yet its application has varied. Luckily, Ubisoft stated that they are “continuing to work with Nintendo to enhance VRR support in the future.” There is a chance that a solution could be made available across the entire console system.

    Insights on DLSS Technology

    Ubisoft also discussed how effective DLSS is. Although it outperforms its own Temporal Anti-Aliasing (TAA), the company feels it still has significant potential that has not yet been fully explored. Nvidia’s AI-driven upscaling comes to the forefront when the improved Switch 2 specs are not enough. However, many developers have been reluctant to try out this technology.

    FRVR, Digital Foundry, Assassin’s Creed YouTube.

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  • Microsoft layoffs: Perfect Dark voice actor reveals canceled work

    Microsoft layoffs: Perfect Dark voice actor reveals canceled work

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Perfect Dark reboot had reached significant development milestones, including the recording of complete chapters of motion capture before its cancellation by Microsoft.
    2. Voice actor Alix Wilton-Regan revealed that development began in 2023 and continued until the project was shelved, with many achievements made during that time.
    3. The Initiative Studio was working with Crystal Dynamics to revive the action-espionage genre, but the landscape changed with new game releases like Metal Gear Solid Delta and 007: First Light.
    4. The cancellation of the project led to significant layoffs within the Xbox Games division and the closure of partner studios, including The Initiative.
    5. Despite efforts to secure new funding and keep the project alive, the reboot ultimately collapsed, leaving many team members without jobs.

    New details have emerged about the halted reboot of the iconic spy game Perfect Dark, revealing that the project had achieved notable development achievements, including the recording of complete chapters of motion capture before Microsoft decided to cancel it.

    Insights from the Voice Actor

    Alix Wilton-Regan, who provided the voice for Joanna Dark, recently shared her thoughts in an interview with TheGamer. She explained that the development of the Perfect Dark reboot had been ongoing for a considerable time. Initial recording sessions started in 2023, progressed in 2024, and continued until the project was ultimately shelved.

    Wilton-Regan stated, “From what I know, we were quite advanced. I had completed whole chapters of this universe.” She also pointed out that the game had reached several important development milestones that Microsoft seemed to appreciate.

    The Collaborative Effort

    The Initiative Studio was collaborating with Crystal Dynamics to develop the reboot of Perfect Dark under the support of Xbox. The aim was to address the gap left by the decline of action-espionage games in recent times. However, this scenario shifted with the launch of Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater and the announcement of 007: First Light.

    The news of the cancellation surprised many. Wilton-Regan found out about it online, just like everyone else, without any warning from Microsoft. She expressed her feelings by saying:

    “I was just as shocked, surprised, and heartbroken as everyone else when the funding got pulled, and the studio shut down.”

    “I didn’t expect it. I was completely taken by surprise when the project lost its funding. It was really hard to see so many people lose their jobs. An entire team was disbanded.”

    Impact on the Industry

    This unexpected decision led to thousands of layoffs within the Xbox Games division and caused the closure of numerous partner studios, including The Initiative. Nevertheless, leaders from The Initiative and Crystal Dynamics spent two months seeking new funding in a final attempt to keep the project alive.

    Interestingly, Wilton-Regan was aware of these discussions and mentioned that hope was not entirely lost for the Perfect Dark reboot until the very end. She noted:

    “I couldn’t disclose too much since I knew The Initiative was negotiating to keep Perfect Dark alive in some form.”

    “Maybe a smaller version, or perhaps something a bit different. But for sure, everyone was making a huge effort behind the scenes to revive Perfect Dark. Then one day, I got a call from the creative director saying that the deal fell through, and that really everything had collapsed, and production was completely halting.”

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  • Cozy Holiday Game Soars on Steam Charts Before Christmas

    Cozy Holiday Game Soars on Steam Charts Before Christmas

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Overview: “Light Up The Town” is a Christmas-themed decorating game where players control a young ferret named Bean, tasked with illuminating the town of Bellflower, Colorado, for the Winter Festival.

    2. Gameplay Mechanics: Players decorate by clicking to place lights and decorations without worrying about wiring; the game features first-person and third-person views for navigation.

    3. Game Length and Content: The main storyline takes about three hours to complete, with additional time for those who want to fully decorate the town.

    4. Community and Reception: Developed by Meadow Studios, the game gained popularity through a demo and positive feedback on its lighting system and atmosphere, despite some criticism for bugs and a tedious progression system.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The game is priced at approximately $14.99 on Steam, with a demo available for players unsure about purchasing, and it supports full controller use.

    Light Up The Town is a fresh and inviting Christmas-themed decorating game on Steam, where you take on the role of a young ferret traversing a snowy Colorado town to hang up lights. Released on December 7, 2025, for PC, the game has quickly climbed into the “Popular New Releases” chart on Steam just in time for the holiday season. If you’re looking for a brief, standalone festive experience priced at under $15, this might catch your eye.

    The Festive Adventure

    Set in the charming town of Bellflower, Colorado, players step into the paws of Bean, an eager ferret assigned the job of illuminating the town for the Winter Festival, as the local electrician—and Bean’s dad, Chuck—can’t help out. The gameplay revolves around clicking anywhere in the scenery to “throw” up string lights and decorations, adjusting their size, angle, and density to design your own displays on homes, streets, and trees. There’s no need to stress about wiring or power management; the lights just work wherever you place them.

    Explore and Decorate

    The town of Bellflower features carefully crafted areas that unlock gradually as you boost each neighborhood’s “cheer” by decorating sufficiently. You’ll find coins scattered throughout that can be used to purchase new types of lights and ornaments. Players have the option to switch between first-person and third-person views, although many enjoy navigating in first-person and switching to third-person to appreciate the animations and outfits. Completing the main storyline typically takes about three hours, while completionists might spend additional hours fully decorating every nook and cranny of the town.

    Community and Reception

    Developed by indie team Meadow Studios, Light Up The Town first emerged earlier in 2025 as a demo aimed at cozy-game enthusiasts, marketed as a “holiday decorating simulator in a mountain town.” The demo gained traction on platforms like YouTube and TikTok during November and early December, generating wishlist excitement on Steam prior to the game’s full launch this month.

    According to player feedback, the lighting system, voice acting, and overall atmosphere are standout features. However, there are some critiques regarding performance issues, bugs, a progression system that some players find tedious, and a limited scope that may feel small for those expecting more than just a few holiday evenings of gameplay.

    Currently, Light Up The Town is retailing on Steam for approximately $14.99. A demo is also available if you’re hesitant about buying it right away. Additionally, if you favor using a controller, the game offers complete controller support.

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