Category: Gaming

  • First Generative AI Game Releases Demo, Publisher Announces

    First Generative AI Game Releases Demo, Publisher Announces

    Key Takeaways

    1. Codex Mortis as an AI-Driven Game: Codex Mortis is promoted as the first fully playable game created entirely by AI, showcasing its integration of AI tools throughout the development process.

    2. Debate on AI Usage: The claim of being the only AI-driven game is contested, with other titles like Oasis also utilizing generative AI technology.

    3. Valve’s Disclosure Requirement: Starting in early 2024, Valve requires games to disclose any use of generative AI, ensuring transparency about AI-generated content in titles like Codex Mortis.

    4. Gameplay Mechanics: Codex Mortis features “necromantic bullet hell” gameplay, allowing players to mix dark magic and build armies of spirits for solo or cooperative play.

    5. User Experience and Graphics: The demo has a tricky interface and retro graphics that may not meet player expectations, similar to other indie titles, but a reasonable price for the final game could mitigate potential backlash.

    Some developers shy away from acknowledging the effects of generative AI on their creations. Nevertheless, Codex Mortis stands out as its studio embraces this technology as a key feature. According to Insider Gaming, the publisher boasts that it’s the “first fully playable game in the world made entirely by AI.” This bullet hell game, inspired by Vampire Survivor, has recently released a demo on Steam ahead of its complete launch.

    Debates on AI in Gaming

    The claim that Codex Mortis is the sole AI-driven game is open to discussion. For example, Oasis presents a web-based open-world experience that is crafted using this rapidly advancing technology. Nonetheless, the publisher behind the new Steam title asserts that their team has integrated AI tools in every phase of development.

    Valve’s New Requirements

    In early 2024, Valve started mandating that titles disclose any use of generative AI. In this instance, the disclaimer states, “All code is AI vibe codes, also arts, sounds, music, texts.” The game’s trailer makes it clear that the visuals were not created through conventional methods. It seems the studio based the characters on their own faces, which appear to be copied and pasted into the game.

    Despite the fact that Codex Mortis is generated by machines, it still provides fun gameplay. Labeled as “necromantic bullet hell,” players mix five kinds of dark magic to fend off waves of resurrected foes. Additionally, gamers have the option to build their own armies of these unfortunate spirits in solo or cooperative play.

    Gameplay Experience

    When players start the free demo, they might find the interface a bit tricky to use, especially with controllers. Before the action kicks off, the retro graphics from a top-down perspective don’t align with what’s shown in the YouTube trailer. However, it’s worth noting that the visuals in more widely recognized titles like Vampire Survivor also aren’t cutting-edge.

    With the criticism regarding the limited use of generative AI tools in games such as Arc Raiders, Codex Mortis might struggle to win fans over. Even many indie developers are hesitant to give this technology complete creative authority. On a positive note, a reasonable price for the final product could help sidestep the backlash faced by major projects.

    Insider Gaming, Codex Mortis Steam page, Crunch Fest YouTube, Oasis AI game

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  • Epic Games Store December 2025 Giveaway Plans Leaked

    Epic Games Store December 2025 Giveaway Plans Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games Store will reveal its next free game offer for PC and possibly macOS, linked to The Game Awards.
    2. The Mystery Game promotion will continue until the Holiday Sale ends on January 8, 2026.
    3. The next Mystery Game giveaway is on December 18 at 16:00 UTC, with no delays expected.
    4. No hints or teasers have been provided for the upcoming giveaway, making predictions difficult.
    5. Epic Games is currently offering a popular title for free on Android and iOS, but it’s unlikely to extend this offer to other platforms.

    The Epic Games Store is just about 6 hours away from revealing its next free game offer for PC users and maybe even for macOS. So far, the store has only suggested that the first Mystery Game for this holiday season is connected to The Game Awards. However, a Reddit user named u/MeguminShiro has shared information about the store’s upcoming plans before they were officially announced.

    Continuing the Mystery Game Promotions

    It’s no surprise that Epic will keep using its Mystery Game promotion strategy. Reports suggest that they will carry on with this approach until their latest Holiday Sale wraps up on January 8, 2026. The next Mystery Game giveaway is set to go live on December 18 at 16:00 UTC, and unlike this week’s event, there will be no delay. Sadly, the store hasn’t provided any hints in the Mystery Game image this time around.

    No Teasers for the Next Giveaway

    As a result, it will be hard to predict what the upcoming giveaway will be based on the teaser alone. There’s a good chance Epic may share hints on their social media later. Meanwhile, Epic Games is already offering a highly praised title for free on Android and iOS. At this moment, it’s looking unlikely that this promotion will be extended to other platforms. For more information, check out our related article.

    u/MeguminShiro’s insights have certainly stirred some excitement among gamers, as they anticipate what’s to come in the next few weeks.

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  • New Blood’s Dungeons of Dusk: Retro FPS Meets DOOM-Inspired RPG

    New Blood’s Dungeons of Dusk: Retro FPS Meets DOOM-Inspired RPG

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Blood Interactive is developing a spin-off of Dusk titled Dungeons of Dusk, a turn-based dungeon crawler set to launch in 2026.
    2. The game will bridge the storyline between the three episodes of Dusk, starting right after Episode 1 and leading into Episode 2.
    3. Dungeons of Dusk draws inspiration from classic mobile RPGs, particularly the DOOM RPG, and will feature 30 campaign levels with quirky NPCs and engaging dialogue.
    4. The game is currently in development with most mechanics finalized and 6-7 campaign levels completed; a demo was showcased at the Steam Next Fest.
    5. It will be available on multiple platforms, including Steam, GOG, PS5, Xbox Series S|X, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android, and is priced at $16.99.

    New Blood Interactive has revealed a spin-off of its classic FPS Dusk, which will be a turn-based dungeon crawler. The game, titled Dungeons of Dusk, is expected to launch in 2026 and is being crafted by 68k Studios. This RPG is set to fit neatly between the three episodes of Dusk.

    Development Journey

    The CEO of New Blood had considered making a Dusk RPG for some time, but struggled to find a developer familiar with the classic dungeon crawler style. He desired a team member who had a passion for DOOM RPG similar to his own. After testing out 68k Studios’ games like Inferno and Ludus Mortis, he discovered the perfect developers.

    In a Steam post, Dave Bleiwess, the CEO of New Blood, shared the news about Dungeons of Dusk:

    “Dungeons of DUSK begins right after the conclusion of Episode 1 and leads into Episode 2, while the latter portion unfolds between Episode 2 and Episode 3. Did you think our hero just teleported from one location to another? Heck no. He was stuck in some DUNGEONS the entire time, obviously.”

    Gameplay Inspiration

    David Szymanski’s 2018 boomer shooter was praised for its charming pixel art reminiscent of Quake and Doom, alongside its fast gameplay. However, Dungeons of Dusk takes a different approach, transforming that concept into a compact RPG.

    The game draws from lesser-known mobile classics, including Fountainhead Entertainment’s Doom RPG and the 2000s Wolfenstein RPG. Bleiwiss mentioned in his post that he has cherished these games privately for over two decades. He also stated:

    “Our main inspiration for Dungeons of DUSK was indeed… DOOM RPG. A mobile RPG adaptation of DOOM by Fountainhead Entertainment, which was surprisingly impactful in 2005. DOOM RPG was unexpected, yet it delivered everything it promised and so much more.”

    Game Features

    This inspiration has led to an RPG featuring 30 campaign levels, along with quirky NPCs and engaging dialogue.

    Dungeons of Dusk is currently about a year into its development, with the majority of its mechanics finalized and six to seven campaign levels complete. A demo was showcased at the Steam Next Fest in February.

    The game will include full controller support, verification for Steam Deck, and a level editor at launch. Dungeons of Dusk is set to retail at $16.99 and will be accessible on Steam, GOG, Mac, Linux, PS5, Xbox Series S|X, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android.

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  • Ubisoft’s 2026 Title Likely Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag Resynced

    Ubisoft’s 2026 Title Likely Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag Resynced

    Key Takeaways

    1. An entry for “Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag: Resynced” was briefly spotted on the PEGI ratings board, indicating a possible remake.
    2. The game has received an 18+ rating, but details on its platforms remain unclear.
    3. Rumors about the remake have been circulating since 2023, with Ubisoft hinting at an unannounced title in their financial report.
    4. Voice actor Matt Ryan hinted at returning to the game, prompting legal action from Ubisoft.
    5. The PEGI listing suggests potential microtransactions for cosmetic items and ship upgrades in the remake.

    The much-anticipated remake of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag appears to be getting close to an official announcement, following a recent leak just hours before the start of the Game Awards 2025. An entry for “Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag: Resynced” was briefly seen on the PEGI ratings board.

    PEGI Rating Revealed

    Assassin’s Creed Black Flag IV: Resynced has received an 18+ rating from PEGI but was swiftly taken down from their site. Screenshots are now making the rounds online, fueling the idea that Ubisoft is indeed developing a remake of Black Flag, as speculation intensifies.

    Sadly, the PEGI rating did not clarify which platforms the game will be available on, leaving fans guessing whether it will launch on PS5, Xbox, PC, or the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.

    Ongoing Rumors

    Rumors about Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag: Remake have been circulating since 2023. Insider reports indicated that Ubisoft Singapore was quietly rebooting Black Flag after completing work on Skull and Bones.

    Fast forward to 2025, Ubisoft has not officially announced the game yet, but they have hinted at its existence indirectly. In their latest financial report, the company confirmed that there is one “unannounced title” in the works, which is planned to release before March 31, 2026.

    Voice Actor’s Hints and Legal Actions

    In addition to leaks, Edward Kenway’s voice actor, Matt Ryan, has dropped hints about returning to Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag. This led Ubisoft to send a legal warning to the actor.

    The title “Assassin’s Creed Black Flag: Resynced” implies that Ubisoft is planning a full remake rather than a simple remaster of the 2013 game. Additional leaks from the gaming community indicate that Ubisoft might remove contemporary storyline aspects to emphasize the Golden Age of Piracy, potentially adding several hours of new content.

    Potential Microtransactions

    The PEGI listing also mentions the possibility of in-game purchases or microtransactions. It seems likely that Ubisoft could introduce microtransactions for cosmetic items and ship upgrades, similar to what they did in their latest game, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows.

    As The Game Awards begin, it’s quite possible that Ubisoft could unveil Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag: Resynced with a cinematic trailer. With over 15 million copies sold and its positive critical reception, a Black Flag remake could be the perfect remedy Ubisoft is looking for.

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  • New Star Wars Racing Game Leaked Amid KOTOR Remake Hype

    New Star Wars Racing Game Leaked Amid KOTOR Remake Hype

    Key Takeaways

    1. Kurakasis predicts a new Star Wars game with “The Old Republic” in its title, potentially connected to a KOTOR remake.
    2. A racing game based on the Star Wars universe is also being developed, with the title expected to end with the word “racer.”
    3. The original Star Wars Episode I: Racer was a successful game, surpassing 3 million sales and praised for its fun gameplay.
    4. Other Star Wars titles like KOTOR and Outlaws feature racing elements, suggesting a possible link to the new racing game.
    5. There are rumors of a KOTOR 2 remake in development, increasing excitement for upcoming Star Wars game announcements at The Game Awards.

    Ahead of The Game Awards, anticipation is rising among Star Wars fans. Kurakasis, known for making accurate predictions, has already announced a new game that includes “The Old Republic” in its title. Many believe this could be connected to a remake of KOTOR, but there seems to be another Star Wars project in the works. Fans discovered through social media that a racing game based on George Lucas’ universe is also being developed.

    Teasing the Title

    Kurakasis hinted that the title of this new game will end with the word “racer.” When players think of the latest Star Wars titles like Outlaws or Jedi Survivor, racing might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But back in 1999, Star Wars Episode I: Racer was a hit release from LucasArts.

    A Classic Game

    Star Wars Episode I: Racer brings the podracing excitement from The Phantom Menace movie. It received positive reviews, with many reviewers claiming it was more fun than the film itself. Fans believe the game captured the high speeds and thrills of the races well. At the same time, the controls were good enough to let skilled players show off their talents.

    With sales surpassing 3 million, a game studio might want to revisit the original Star Wars racing experience. After its launch on the N64, Game Boy Color, and Windows, an HD version was released in 2020. This was followed by Star Wars Racer Revenge in 2002, which was exclusive to PS2. Gamers might also recall Super Bombad Racing from 2001, which combined kart racing with combat.

    Racing in the Galaxy

    Other Star Wars games like Knights of the Old Republic and Outlaws also include racing elements. If developers choose to focus on swoop racing, a KOTOR remake could naturally connect to this new title. Kurakasis’ previous announcements have made some gamers believe that The Game Awards might reveal more about this project.

    Since its unveiling in 2021, there hasn’t been much news about the title. Luckily, in March 2025, Saber Interactive assured fans that their entire lineup is secure. If that’s still not enough to be excited about, Game File has recently reported that a remake of KOTOR 2 could also be in development.

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  • GameSir Teases New Racing Wheel for CES 2026 Reveal

    GameSir Teases New Racing Wheel for CES 2026 Reveal

    Key Takeaways

    1. GameSir is set to reveal a new product at CES 2026, hinting at a possible entry into a new market segment.
    2. The teaser image suggests the new product could be a racing wheel, entering a competitive market with established brands.
    3. GameSir will be present at booth 14457 in the Central Hall of the LVCC during CES from January 6 to January 9.
    4. The company had a successful year with notable releases, including the G7 Pro Wuchang: Fallen Feathers Edition for Xbox.
    5. GameSir is also hinting at a new touchpad controller, marking eight years since their last one.

    GameSir, a company famous for creating controllers for mobile gadgets, gaming consoles, and PCs, is getting ready to showcase a new product at CES 2026. The hint they’ve dropped suggests that they might be entering a brand new market segment.

    Exciting Teaser

    Through their social media, GameSir announced that this upcoming product is set to transform the industry once it’s revealed at CES 2026. The teaser image they shared is quite dark, but it appears to show the silhouette of what could potentially be a racing wheel.

    Entering a Competitive Market

    If this does turn out to be a racing wheel, GameSir will be stepping into a competitive area dominated by well-known brands like Logitech, Thrustmaster, and PXN. Still, we anticipate that more information will come out before the big reveal in January.

    Upcoming Tech Show

    GameSir has also announced they will have a presence at booth 14457 in the Central Hall of the LVCC during the tech exhibition, which is set to take place from January 6 to January 9.

    GameSir has enjoyed a great year, highlighted by the release of the G7 Pro Wuchang: Fallen Feathers Edition, priced at $99.99 on Amazon, which marks their first wireless controller for Xbox. Other notable releases include the GameSir G7 Pro Zenless Zone Zero Edition and the Nova 2 Lite. Now, they are gearing up to start 2026 with excitement, introducing this new controller. They have also hinted at a new touchpad controller, marking eight years since their last one was launched.

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  • Bouncer at the Castle: Let the Bard In or Toss Him Off!

    Bouncer at the Castle: Let the Bard In or Toss Him Off!

    Key Takeaways

    1. Importance of Castle Guards: Castle guards played a crucial role in distinguishing between smugglers and honest citizens during the Middle Ages.

    2. Gameplay Experience: The game “Gate Guard Simulator” allows players to immerse themselves in the daily duties of a medieval gate guard, including checking documents and detecting smugglers.

    3. Player Choices: Players’ decisions in the game affect the outcomes, adding depth to the gameplay with potential consequences for their actions.

    4. Playtesting Announcement: A playtest for the game has been announced on Steam, with players encouraged to register and wishlist the game, although details on the timing are unclear.

    5. Community Feedback: The game has received positive reactions from the community, with comparisons to other titles, though some concerns have been raised about the use of AI-generated content.

    In the times of the Middle Ages, the role of castle guards was very important – distinguishing between smugglers and honest citizens was not always straightforward. Occasionally, even dubious individuals managed to get past the gates, as not every guard could resist the temptation of a well-filled coin purse. If you are eager to learn about the life of a castle gatekeeper, a recent announcement on Steam provides the opportunity. The game called Gate Guard Simulator aims to do just that.

    Experience Daily Duties

    Launched on December 9 by Redox Interactive, this game immerses players into the everyday tasks of a medieval gate guard. You will check documents, authenticate seals, detect smugglers, and recognize victims of the plague. How strictly you uphold the regulations is in your hands – but remember, every decision comes with its own consequences. The initial trailer gives a glimpse of what awaits: dubious documents, anxious merchants, a relentless goose, and even a bard who gets humorously tossed off the bridge, complete with the iconic Wilhelm Scream.

    Sign Up for Playtesting

    A playtest has been announced on Steam; however, specifics about when it will begin or how extensive it will be are still unknown. Players can register now and put the game on their wishlist. The idea has garnered positive reactions in the YouTube comments, with the community expressing significant enthusiasm and making comparisons to Kingdom Come (priced at $39 on Amazon for the Royal Edition), Contraband Police, and a “medieval Papers, Please.” Nonetheless, some feedback has pointed out concerns regarding the use of AI-generated images and voices – particularly focusing on the bard’s AI-composed introduction.

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  • Best Gaming Handhelds of 2025: Surprising Winner Revealed

    Best Gaming Handhelds of 2025: Surprising Winner Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Marques Brownlee reviews the top and bottom smartphones of 2025, gaining over 3 million views.
    2. ETA Prime focuses on x86-based gaming handhelds, amid the rise of budget and premium ARM devices.
    3. GPD Win 5 is highlighted as the most powerful handheld, followed by MSI Claw 8 AI+ and ROG Xbox Ally X for battery life.
    4. The Steam Deck OLED and Legion Go 2 are praised for their superior OLED displays, with the Legion Go 2 named ETA Prime’s top choice for 2025.
    5. The handheld gaming market has significantly evolved, showcasing advancements in technology and design.

    With 2025 nearing its end, creators are evaluating their favorite gadgets of the year. Just this week, Marques Brownlee expressed his opinions on the top and bottom smartphones of 2025. His video has already been watched over 3 million times and discusses various ‘bests’, which we have detailed in a separate piece.

    Gaming Handhelds Take the Stage

    Now, ETA Prime has added his own insights, focusing on gaming handhelds. He has only looked at x86-based devices this time. A few years back, this would have been clear-cut, but now there are many budget and premium ARM-based devices available. For example, Anbernic is still leading in the budget Linux sector. In addition, Ayaneo has teamed up with Ayn Technologies to introduce several high-end Android handhelds.

    Top Picks of the Year

    ETA Prime primarily evaluates devices launched this year, highlighting the GPD Win 5 as the most powerful option thanks to its AMD Strix Halo processors, with the MSI Claw 8 AI+ following in second place. The ROG Xbox Ally X is noted for having the longest battery life, ranking just below the Legion Go S (currently priced at $899 on Amazon) for the most comfortable x86 handheld of the year.

    At present, ETA Prime believes the Steam Deck OLED and Legion Go 2 boast the finest displays since they utilize OLED technology instead of IPS panels. The MSI Claw A8 also receives an honorable mention for its design and overall look. After all that has been said, ETA Prime names the Legion Go 2 as his top choice for 2025, thanks to its 144 Hz OLED display, the powerful Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipset, and detachable controllers. On the other hand, the Steam Deck OLED continues to be a favorite due to its impressive price-to-performance ratio. For more details, check out the video above and our hands-on review of the Legion Go 2 below for a complete overview of Lenovo’s latest gaming handheld.

    ETA Prime’s findings showcase how much the handheld gaming landscape has evolved in a short time.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Price May Rise as RAM Costs Surge 41%

    Nintendo Switch 2 Price May Rise as RAM Costs Surge 41%

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 sold over 10 million units in four months, benefiting from easy availability.
    2. Nintendo faces a DRAM supply crisis, increasing the cost of components like RAM and NAND flash memory.
    3. The company’s market value has declined by about $14 billion since December, affecting its stock price.
    4. Predictions suggest rising DRAM prices may lead to a potential retail price increase for the Switch 2.
    5. Nintendo may choose lower profit margins to cope with rising costs, impacting its stock performance.

    The Nintendo Switch 2 (available here on Amazon) was released on June 5, 2025, with a suggested retail price of $449. In just four months, it managed to sell over 10 million units. This impressive number was partly due to the console’s easy availability. In comparison, the Sony PlayStation 5 sold 7.8 million units in its first six months but faced stock shortages during that time.

    Supply Chain Challenges

    As reported by Bloomberg, Nintendo is facing issues with the DRAM supply crisis. The 12 GB of RAM in the Switch 2 now costs the company 41% more than it did just three months ago. Additionally, the price of the console’s 256 GB of NAND flash memory has increased by 8%. This rise in costs also impacts the prices of game cards and microSD Express cards.

    Market Impact

    According to Bloomberg, Nintendo has seen a decline of about $14 billion in market value since early December, with its stock price dropping to the lowest point since the Switch 2’s launch, largely due to the increasing production costs. Predictions indicate that DRAM prices will continue to rise throughout 2026, which might force Nintendo to increase the retail price of the Switch 2. On the other hand, laptops set to launch next year are expected to be at least 20% pricier due to escalating DRAM and NAND costs. Nintendo might opt for lower profit margins instead, but this could put additional strain on its stock price.

    Conclusion

    The situation presents a challenging landscape for Nintendo as it navigates these economic factors while trying to maintain its market position.

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  • Ayaneo Launches Gaming Phone with Xperia Play-Inspired Controls

    Ayaneo Launches Gaming Phone with Xperia Play-Inspired Controls

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo has launched its first gaming phone called Pocket Play, inspired by the Sony Xperia Play.
    2. The device features a slide-out controller with a standard D-pad and innovative “Smart Dual-Mode Touchpad” for versatile gaming controls.
    3. Pocket Play has a unique design that differs from typical smartphones, lacking a full-screen display and featuring an off-center earpiece speaker cut-out.
    4. Specific technical specifications for the Pocket Play have not been disclosed, but it is built with glass and aluminum and includes a dual-camera system and stereo speakers.
    5. An official launch date for the Pocket Play has not been announced, but more information is expected soon on Ayaneo’s YouTube channel.

    Ayaneo recently revealed its first gaming phone in late October 2025, and just a month later, it has been fully presented to the public. A two-minute teaser video shows the device, named Pocket Play, which has a design that reminds many of the Sony Xperia Play.

    Unique Features

    The standout feature of the Ayaneo gaming phone is its slide-out controller, which includes essential gaming components like a standard D-pad and two innovative touch-sensitive pads referred to as “Smart Dual-Mode Touchpad.” These pads can function as either a trackpad or a virtual joystick, providing versatility for gamers.

    Design and Specifications

    While the Pocket Play resembles a typical smartphone in many ways, it appears that it won’t sport a full-screen display like the RedMagic 11 Pro series. The earpiece speaker cut-out does not seem to align flush with the top of the device, indicating a different design approach.

    Ayaneo has yet to disclose any specific specifications for the Pocket Play. However, they did share insights into the overall design philosophy, indicating a build that combines glass and aluminum materials. The back of the device features a dual-camera system along with an LED flash. It also looks to include a stereo speaker arrangement.

    Future Developments

    As for the launch date, there is no official announcement at this time. Nevertheless, with the full teaser for the Pocket Play now available, the release seems imminent. More information is likely to be unveiled in the next few days.

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