Category: Gaming

  • Rumors: Virtuos Developing Halo Combat Evolved Remake

    Rumors: Virtuos Developing Halo Combat Evolved Remake

    Key Takeaways

    1. Halo: Combat Evolved, a classic game, may be getting a remake as the franchise celebrates its 25th anniversary.
    2. YouTuber MrRebs claims the remake is being developed by Abstraction Virtuos Studios from the Netherlands.
    3. The remake will use a hybrid graphics engine, combining elements from the original game with new features.
    4. Halo Studios is overseeing the remake, ensuring it is not an independent project.
    5. Fans can expect more information about the remake during the Halo World Championship on October 24.

    Halo is a beloved franchise that has impacted countless gamers globally since its inception. One of its most notable titles is Combat Evolved, which debuted in 2001. With the 25th anniversary coming up, whispers of a remake for this classic are circulating, with rumors suggesting that a well-known studio might be behind the project.

    Exciting Developments

    In a recent video, YouTuber MrRebs brought attention to these rumors. As an avid supporter of the franchise, he asserts that the remake of Halo: Combat Evolved is currently underway. Notably, the studio tasked with this remake is Abstraction Virtuos Studios, located in the Netherlands.

    New Graphics Engine

    Moreover, MrRebs mentioned that the studio plans to implement a hybrid graphics engine. This approach will allow them to keep certain elements from the original 2001 release while introducing new features. To further support these claims, XboxEra has backed the rumors and clarified that Halo Studios is overseeing the remake. This indicates that it is not an independent project, which is encouraging news for fans.

    Upcoming Announcement

    For fans eager to find out more about this highly anticipated remake, tuning into the Halo World Championship on October 24 could be beneficial. A conference is set to discuss the franchise’s future, and there may be new details about this exciting title revealed during the event.

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  • Modder Turns 1:1 Scale Lego Game Boy into a Playable Device

    Modder Turns 1:1 Scale Lego Game Boy into a Playable Device

    Key Takeaways

    1. Natalie the Nerd has designed the first transparent Game Boy motherboard that fits into existing shells.
    2. She created a Lego version of the Game Boy that plays original cartridges by swapping out the silicon.
    3. The Lego Game Boy features clickable buttons connected through a 3D printed Lego brick.
    4. The power circuit for the Lego Game Boy comes from her previous “Safer Charging” board, which is compact.
    5. While the project is not easily replicable yet, Natalie plans to improve the board and share complete instructions in the future.

    Natalie the Nerd is well-known for her work in modding Game Boys. As a PCB designer, she has innovated the first transparent Game Boy motherboard, which can be fitted into an existing shell.

    A Remarkable Achievement

    Not stopping at this groundbreaking achievement, she has also managed to swap the silicon from a real Game Boy into a Lego version, allowing it to play original Game Boy cartridges. This is even more impressive since the product just became widely available for purchase on October 1, 2025. Natalie used press images to figure out the sizes for the screen inserts, where most components are placed. She then created a custom PCB to hold the CPU from a Game Boy Pocket (MGB), rather than the classic DMG, mainly because of the internal VRAM and the need to save space.

    Custom Features

    The Lego Game Boy includes clickable buttons, which Natalie connected using a specially designed 3D printed Lego brick. The power circuit is derived from one of her previous products, a “Safer Charging” board, which she markets through her shop and is already quite compact.

    The big question many people have is if they can replicate this themselves. Right now, the answer is likely no, unless you possess a unique skill set. However, Natalie has promised to improve the board and share the complete project once she is done. You can currently find the Lego Game Boy kit on Amazon if you want to grab one, preparing to try it out once she releases her full instructions.

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  • Sony PlayStation 4 Set to Lose Key PSN Features Soon

    Sony PlayStation 4 Set to Lose Key PSN Features Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PlayStation 4 was released nearly twelve years ago and succeeded by the PlayStation 5 in November 2020.
    2. Speculation suggests the PlayStation 6 could launch in the next two to three years.
    3. Sony plans to remove several outdated PlayStation Network features specific to the PlayStation 4 by spring 2026.
    4. The removal of these features aims to create a more unified and scalable foundation across console generations.
    5. This shift in managing gaming networks may improve overall experiences for gamers but will phase out some older functionalities.

    The PlayStation 4 made its debut nearly twelve years ago and was succeeded by the PlayStation 5 in November 2020 (currently priced at $549 on Amazon). This suggests we are well into the PlayStation 5’s life cycle. Recent speculation indicates that the PlayStation 6 could launch in the next two to three years.

    Phasing Out Old Features

    As reported by Insider Gaming, Sony is starting to remove several PlayStation Network (PSN) features that are specific to the PlayStation 4. Specifically, the following functionalities will no longer be available for new PlayStation 4 games:

    The report mentions that Sony views these features as outdated, as the PlayStation 5 does not support them. It appears that Sony plans to eliminate these six PSN features by spring 2026, which starts on March 20 in the Northern Hemisphere. Although Insider Gaming hasn’t given an exact date, it suggests that leaked documents indicate these alterations will assist Sony in establishing a “more unified and scalable foundation across console generations,” rather than gradually diminishing PSN support for the PlayStation 4.

    Future of PlayStation

    The move represents a significant shift in how Sony manages its gaming networks. As the gaming landscape evolves, the company may be trying to streamline its services and make sure they work better together across different console generations. This could lead to better experiences for gamers in the long run, but it does mean that some older features will be left behind.

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  • Backbone Pro & One Launch Colorful Limited Editions for Cozy Gaming

    Backbone Pro & One Launch Colorful Limited Editions for Cozy Gaming

    Key Takeaways

    1. Backbone Pro and Backbone One controllers are now available in new limited-edition colors inspired by cozy gaming trends.
    2. The Backbone Pro – Pink Edition and Backbone One – Purple Edition are the two new color variants launched in partnership with Target.
    3. The Backbone Pro – Pink Edition retains its original features and price of $169.99, while the Backbone One – Purple Edition is priced at $99.
    4. The new controllers do not tie into specific video games or platforms but focus on promoting relaxation and stress relief in gaming.
    5. Availability for the new controllers begins online at Target on October 5 and in stores on October 6.

    Earlier this year, Backbone revealed the Backbone Pro, its top-tier mobile controller. This device, compatible with both Android and iOS, was initially offered only in black. However, things are changing as Backbone has introduced a limited-edition variant for this controller. The older, less expensive Backbone One is also receiving a new color.

    New Colors Inspired by Gaming Trends

    The newly released limited-edition Backbone controllers aren’t associated with any specific video game, unlike the Backbone One Death Stranding edition, nor are they linked to a platform like the Backbone One Xbox Edition. Instead, Backbone states that the new colors draw inspiration from cozy gaming, a trend focused on playing games that promote relaxation and stress relief. Some well-known cozy games include Stardew Valley, Spiritfarer, Gris, and Sky.

    Partnership with Target

    To celebrate this gaming trend, Backbone has teamed up with Target to unveil two new limited-edition controllers. The first one is the Backbone Pro – Pink Edition, and the second is the Backbone One – Purple Edition. These controllers replace the standard black color with more lively shades, as their names suggest.

    The Backbone Pro – Pink Edition showcases a soft pink color that envelops the entire controller, except for the thumbsticks and the Backbone button. Other than the fresh color, it remains identical to the original black model. It still carries the same price of $169.99, which is also found on Amazon. Conversely, the Backbone One – Purple Edition flaunts a pastel purple look and is priced at $99.

    Availability Details

    Backbone has announced that these new controllers will be exclusive to Target, with online availability starting on October 5 and in-store availability following on October 6.

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  • Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 Update: Cross-Platform Hopes Rise

    Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 Update: Cross-Platform Hopes Rise

    Key Takeaways

    1. Final Fantasy Remake trilogy will no longer be exclusive to PS5, expanding to multiple platforms.
    2. Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade will launch on Switch 2 and Xbox on January 22, 2026.
    3. Dedicated teams are working on Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and Part 3 to ensure simultaneous development.
    4. Each platform presents unique challenges for performance and compatibility, especially between Switch 2 and PS5.
    5. Delays in development for one platform could affect the overall launch schedule for the trilogy.

    Recently, Square Enix announced that the Final Fantasy Remake trilogy would no longer be exclusive to the PS5. This has sparked excitement that the final installment of the series might launch on multiple platforms right from the start. During the Tokyo Game Show, Naoki Hamaguchi, a director at Square Enix, talked about the company’s plan to prevent delays in an interview with Easy Allies.

    Transitioning Platforms

    Past releases were initially restricted to the PS5, only later to be released on PC. However, on January 22, 2026, Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade will be available on the Switch 2 and Xbox consoles. There are also whispers that Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth might come to these platforms before the year 2026 wraps up. Additionally, work is ongoing for cross-platform development for the yet-to-be-titled Final Fantasy Remake Part 3.

    Anticipation from Fans

    Enthusiastic fans could potentially play Square Enix games without prolonged waits. Nevertheless, there’s some worry about how the company plans to create the titles at the same time. Hamaguchi shared that a distinct team has been created just for Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth on the Switch 2, while another team is dedicated to Final Fantasy Remake Part 3. The final part of the trilogy has developers focusing on making the game run well across different platforms.

    Challenges Ahead

    Hamaguchi acknowledges that each system brings its own set of challenges to guarantee a smooth experience. The Switch 2 is much more capable than the last model, yet it still falls short of the PS5’s technical specifications. Although Square Enix has commended the handheld device, the expansive worlds in the second and third remakes are tougher to handle than those in Remake Intergrade.

    The Xbox Series S also comes with memory constraints that can complicate cross-platform releases. Having dedicated developers for each platform might lead to a better experience for players. However, if one group lags behind, it could jeopardize hopes for a simultaneous launch across all systems.

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  • Free Third-Person Shooter with Coyote Gunslinger Gets 100% Positive Reviews

    Free Third-Person Shooter with Coyote Gunslinger Gets 100% Positive Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Free Availability: Not Raised by Wolves is a free game on Steam, launched on October 1, as a student project from Vancouver Film School.
    2. Main Character: Players control La Coyota, a coyote with a revolver, on a quest to rescue her kidnapped pups from a deserted AI facility.
    3. Engaging Gameplay: The game features fast-paced, third-person action with a focus on revolver mechanics, including rapid fire and precision shots against robot spiders.
    4. Positive Reception: The game has received very positive feedback on Steam, with players praising its gun mechanics, graphics, and level design despite concerns about short playtime.
    5. Limited Replayability: Although the game lasts only 10 to 15 minutes, many players overlook this due to its free price point, while its compatibility with the Steam Deck is still unknown.

    Not Raised by Wolves is a fresh title that you can play for free, which was made available on Steam starting October 1. This game is a student project from the Vancouver Film School, known for its previous title Rage Quit. In this adventure, you take on the character of La Coyota, a coyote armed with a revolver, as she embarks on a quest to save her kidnapped pups from her colony. Accompanied by a reliable drone, she battles through a deserted AI facility.

    Engaging Gameplay

    The action in the game is fast and exciting, focusing on third-person mechanics and centered around one weapon: a revolver that has two firing modes—rapid fire and precision shots. You’ll face off against robot spiders of different sizes using this weapon. To succeed, dodging enemy attacks is key, and you’ll need to use your drone wisely. The drone has abilities to stun foes, reveal weak spots, and assist in landing crucial hits. Although Not Raised by Wolves is a quick experience, lasting only about 10 to 15 minutes, players on Steam seem to enjoy it nonetheless.

    Positive Reception

    Feedback on Steam has been very positive, with every single one of the 44 user reviews praising the game. Gamers appreciate the satisfying gun mechanics, quick hit responses, and impressive damage indicators. Additionally, the graphics and level designs have impressed many players. Some common concerns include the brief playtime and limited replayability; however, since Not Raised by Wolves is completely free on Steam, many players appear to overlook these issues. As for compatibility with the Steam Deck, which is currently priced at $600 on Amazon, its status remains “Unknown,” and there’s no confirmation yet.

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    Free Third-Person Shooter with Coyote Gunslinger Gets 100% Positive ReviewsFree Third-Person Shooter with Coyote Gunslinger Gets 100% Positive Reviews

     

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  • Xbox Game Pass Price Increase Includes Ubisoft+ Classics and 90 Games

    Xbox Game Pass Price Increase Includes Ubisoft+ Classics and 90 Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Pass Ultimate’s price increased to $29.99 per month, a 50% rise, leading to a surge in membership cancellations.
    2. Over 90 new games are being added to the Game Pass library, including 14 Assassin’s Creed titles and other popular Ubisoft games.
    3. Game Pass Essential remains at $9.99, offering a rotating selection of over 50 games, while Game Pass Premium is priced at $14.99 for access to 200 games.
    4. Game Pass Premium includes new titles such as Diablo IV and Frostpunk 2, along with Xbox Game Studios titles arriving within a year of launch.
    5. Despite mixed feedback on the price increase, subscribers to Game Pass Ultimate will have access to a vast selection of games, enhancing their gaming experience.

    Microsoft’s latest changes to its Game Pass subscription have stirred up quite a response among users, leading many to cancel their memberships. The cancellation page saw a surge in traffic, causing some issues. Nevertheless, there is a positive aspect for those who choose to remain subscribed to Game Pass.

    Pricing Changes and New Additions

    Game Pass Ultimate has seen a price increase to $29.99 per month, which is a significant 50% rise. To ease the impact of this hike, Microsoft is enhancing the subscription value by adding over 90 new games to the Game Pass library across all tiers. Furthermore, Ubisoft+ Classics will be available exclusively for Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, enriching the gaming experience even more.

    Exciting New Titles

    The new add-on brings 14 Assassin’s Creed titles to the service, such as Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag, Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection, and Assassin’s Creed Unity. Other notable Ubisoft games like Far Cry 3, which includes the Blood Dragon DLC, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, Watch Dogs, and Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Breakpoint will also be available on cloud PC and Xbox. This expansion pushes the Game Pass Ultimate library to over 400 games, in addition to providing more than 75 day-one releases each year and perks like Fortnite Crew.

    Game Pass Essential and Premium

    Game Pass Essential remains at a price of $9.99 and will showcase a changing selection of more than 50 games, including cloud gaming and multiplayer add-ons. Some new titles in Essential are Cities: Skylines Remastered, Disney Dreamlight Valley, Hades, and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide.

    On the other hand, Game Pass Premium, costing $14.99, grants access to 200 games on console, PC, and cloud. Xbox Game Studios titles are set to arrive within a year post-launch, excluding Call of Duty. Premium also adds 40 new games such as Diablo IV, Against the Storm, Age of Mythology: Retold, and Frostpunk 2.

    Final Thoughts

    Ultimate now includes all mainline Assassin’s Creed games and spin-offs, along with Far Cry 3, Rayman Legends, and South Park: The Stick of Truth, as well as Skull and Bones. Premium-exclusive previews feature titles like 9 Kings, Manor Lords, and Terra Invicta on PC. While the initial feedback has been mixed, with some criticizing the price increase of Game Pass Ultimate, those who remain with the Ultimate Tier will benefit from a vast selection of games to enjoy.

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  • Epic Games Store Free Games Include Overwhelmingly Positive Hit

    Epic Games Store Free Games Include Overwhelmingly Positive Hit

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Epic Games Store is currently offering two free games: a content pack for Firestone Online Idle RPG and Nightingale, an open-world action adventure game.
    2. Upcoming free games include Gravity Circuit, a highly-rated 2D action platformer focused on melee combat, available from October 09 to October 16, 2025.
    3. Gravity Circuit features smooth controls, a grappling mechanism for crowd control, and allows players to unlock unique abilities, though some find the story weak and gameplay repetitive.
    4. Another upcoming freebie is the Rogue Journeyman Bundle for Albion Online, which includes themed skins related to the “Rogue Adventurer” look.
    5. Albion Online is a classless MMORPG inspired by Arthurian legends, but it faces criticism for slow combat and pay-to-win elements.

    The free game section of the Epic Games Store has been refreshed, now offering two new free games for players to grab. The first is a content pack for Firestone Online Idle RPG, valued at $100, and the second is Nightingale, a popular open-world action adventure game priced at $29.99.

    Upcoming Free Titles

    This update also previews the upcoming free games that will be available on October 09, 2025, at UTC 15:00. The standout title in this new giveaway is Gravity Circuit, which has received great reviews from Steam users. Specifically, it boasts a 95% positive rating based on more than 1,800 reviews.

    Game Details

    Launched in 2023, Gravity Circuit is a 2D action platformer centered around a super-robot named Kai. Players who have tried it mentioned that the controls are smooth and responsive. The game places a strong focus on melee combat, setting it apart from other platformers like Mega Man. It includes a grappling mechanism for quick crowd control, and players can unlock unique abilities as they advance. The game also supports controllers well (8BitDo Ultimate 2C curr. $25.49 on Amazon). However, some players have pointed out that the story isn’t very strong and that the gameplay can become a bit repetitive. Normally, Gravity Circuit costs $16.99 when not on sale, but from October 09 to October 16, it will be free on the Epic Games Store.

    Additional Free Content

    The second freebie set to arrive is the Rogue Journeyman Bundle for Albion Online, which is a free-to-play MMORPG. This content was rolled out with the Rise of Avalon update and includes a set of skins themed around the “Rogue Adventurer” look.

    For those who don’t know, Albion Online was launched in 2017 and is an open-world game inspired by Arthurian legends. It features a classless character system, where characters’ abilities depend on the gear players choose to equip.

    Although many players appreciate Albion Online for its design, some feel that the combat can be slow and awkward. Additionally, there have been complaints about pay-to-win aspects that can detract from the experience for those who don’t spend money.

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  • Fallout 76’s Biggest Update in 5 Years Launches in Ohio

    Fallout 76’s Biggest Update in 5 Years Launches in Ohio

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Expansion: The update named Burning Springs will introduce a new area in Ohio, expanding the Fallout 76 universe.
    2. Fresh Content: Players will encounter new characters, factions, and challenges, including a mutant called the Rust King and the local threat Radhog.
    3. Notable Character: The Ghoul from the Fallout series will make an appearance, offering quests at The Last Resort in Highway Town.
    4. Release Date: The Burning Springs update is set to be released on October 28.
    5. Exploration and Gear: Players can explore various locations and complete missions to obtain better gear in the new expansion.

    Since it came out in 2018, Fallout 76 has kept attracting gamers from all over the globe. Soon, fans will be able to explore a completely new area with the largest update the game has seen in five years.

    New Adventures Await

    This upcoming content, named Burning Springs, lets players journey through Ohio in a post-nuclear world. While this choice of location might catch some off guard, Jonathan Rush, the creative director of Fallout 76, shares his thoughts:

    “When we were thinking about another regional expansion that fits all our criteria, we checked the map. We started looking east and noticed the Capital Wasteland, then turned west and thought, ‘Hey, we are right next to Ohio,’ and noticed not much has happened there in Fallout history… So, why not go for it?”

    Fresh Faces and Challenges

    There’s even more to look forward to, as new characters and factions will be introduced. A new mutant called the Rust King will appear in this expansion, and players will get to team up with him. Along with that, there will be various places to explore and missions to finish to get better gear. Plus, there’s the Radhog, a local threat that could give players a hard time.

    A Notable Character Joins

    One major addition is The Ghoul. This character from the Fallout series on Amazon will be featured in Burning Springs, played by Walton Goggins. However, he won’t be a companion or something players can control. Instead, players can take on quests from him at The Last Resort in Highway Town to earn rewards. For those eager to dive into this update, it will be released on October 28.

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  • Battlefield 6 Pre-Orders Surge on Steam, Challenging Call of Duty

    Battlefield 6 Pre-Orders Surge on Steam, Challenging Call of Duty

    Key Takeaways

    1. Battlefield 6’s open beta saw participation from 22 to 25 million gamers, significantly exceeding previous numbers.
    2. The game has achieved around 1.7 million pre-orders on Steam and 2.4 million wishlists, more than three times that of Black Ops 7.
    3. Battlefield 6 aims to challenge the long-standing dominance of Call of Duty, which has been the best-selling series for 16 years.
    4. Data comparison between Battlefield and Call of Duty is complicated by strong player bases on consoles and multiple PC launch platforms.
    5. Black Ops 7’s sales may be affected by recent price increases in Xbox Game Pass, potentially influencing players’ purchasing decisions.

    Record-breaking participation in the Battlefield 6 open beta has led to high expectations for its pre-order sales. Recent market analysis shared by The Game Business shows that EA’s shooter has turned that excitement into revenue. Meanwhile, the Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 beta is just beginning, leaving Activision with a significant gap in sales to bridge.

    Massive Player Engagement

    According to estimates from Ampere and Newzoo, between 22 and 25 million gamers took part in the Battlefield 6 open beta. Daily peak player numbers more than doubled those recorded during the Battlefield 2042 beta. With the extended testing phase, excitement is building ahead of the October 16th release date for Battlefield 6.

    High Pre-Orders and Wishlists

    Fans have shown great interest in DICE’s latest shooter, leading to around 1.7 million pre-orders on Steam. Additionally, 2.4 million users have added the game to their wishlists, which Video Game Insights estimates is three times the amount for Black Ops 7. Ampere predicts that Battlefield 6 might reach five million unit sales within its first week of launch.

    Challenging Call of Duty’s Legacy

    If Battlefield 6 is to take the crown in military shooters, it must overcome the long-standing dominance of Call of Duty. The Activision Blizzard franchise has been the best-selling game series for 16 years. Back in 2016, Battlefield 1 placed second to Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare in terms of U.S. revenue, but typically, there’s been a much wider gap between these competing shooters.

    However, player counts on Steam and sales figures only tell part of the story regarding the popularity of both franchises. Battlefield and Call of Duty also have strong player bases on consoles, making data comparison more challenging. Moreover, other PC launch platforms, such as the EA app, Epic Games, and COD HQ, complicate the total figures.

    Impact of Xbox Game Pass on Black Ops 7

    Black Ops 7 also enjoys the advantage of being on Xbox Game Pass, but recent changes might influence player numbers. Microsoft has raised the prices of its subscription service. While PC Game Pass is an exception, other subscribers now require the more expensive Ultimate tier for day-one access. Conversely, some gamers may choose to buy Black Ops 7 after canceling their expensive subscriptions.

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