Category: Gaming

  • PS6 Expected to Feature Detachable Disc Drive for Physical Games

    PS6 Expected to Feature Detachable Disc Drive for Physical Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PS6 will include an optional disc drive, allowing for both digital and physical game formats.
    2. Sony aims to keep costs manageable while reducing the size of the PS6 with a simpler design.
    3. There is strong demand for physical disc drives, which influences Sony’s confidence in supporting them in the PS6.
    4. Concerns remain about the future of optical media as more games are released only in digital format.
    5. The PS6 is expected to have backward compatibility with PS4 and PS5 games, appealing to gamers with existing disc collections.

    One uncertainty surrounding the upcoming PlayStation console is whether it will continue to support physical games. Insider Gaming has reported that the specifications for the PS6 will indeed include an optional disc drive. Sony intends to provide a digital version of the console, as well as bundles that come with a detachable drive.

    Expectations Around Discs

    Some gamers thought that the PS5 Digital Edition indicated a shift away from disc-based formats. However, buyers can still attach an optional drive to the slimmer version of the console to play physical games. On the other hand, the more expensive PS5 Disc Edition comes with the drive included. Tom Henderson, among other insiders, anticipates that Sony will present similar choices for the PS6 when it launches.

    Henderson points out that strong demand for the PS5 disc drive has bolstered the company’s confidence in this direction. Another consideration is the need to reduce the size of the PS6 to offset escalating shipping expenses. In this context, Insider Gaming mentions that the new console will have a “much simpler design than its predecessor.”

    Cost Management Strategies

    With tariffs leading to a price hike for the PS5, Sony is exploring every possible method to keep prices manageable. The recent downgrading of the PS5 Digital Edition’s SSD to 825GB may seem trivial. Nevertheless, these savings can accumulate quickly when selling a large number of consoles.

    Despite the encouraging news regarding the PS6’s specifications, fans of physical media remain apprehensive. The next PlayStation may support discs, but there are doubts about how long publishers will continue to produce optical media. It is increasingly common for PS5 and Xbox games to be available solely in digital format.

    Future Compatibility Concerns

    Sony might instead focus more on backward compatibility. Many experts predict that the PS6, built on the well-known x86 architecture, will be able to run games from both the PS4 and PS5. A new console with a modular disc drive could attract gamers who have substantial collections of Blu-ray discs. Furthermore, as former PlayStation executive Shawn Layden suggested in February, PlayStation would also target regions with limited internet access.

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  • Delta Force Hits New Record with Over 213,000 Players on Steam

    Delta Force Hits New Record with Over 213,000 Players on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Record Player Count: Delta Force reached a peak of 213,519 concurrent players on Steam, surpassing its previous high shortly after its launch on December 5, 2024.

    2. Cross-Platform Expansion: The game launched on consoles (Xbox Series S|X and PlayStation 5) on August 19, 2025, significantly boosting its player base.

    3. Gameplay Features: Delta Force combines large PVP battles with extraction shooter elements and includes a campaign inspired by the 2001 film.

    4. Esports Growth: The game is hosting its first esports Invitational in China from September 19 to 21, 2025, with 12 teams competing for a $500,000 prize pool.

    5. Player Concerns: Players have raised issues regarding AI servers and cheating, despite enjoying the free-to-play model and cross-platform features.

    Team Jade and TiMi Studio Group’s free-to-play FPS, Delta Force, has reached a new high on Steam, boasting 213,519 concurrent players, as reported by SteamDB on September 6, 2025.

    Game’s Launch and Popularity

    The game was released on December 5, 2024, and has seen a steady rise on Steam’s charts, with player counts increasing every month since its launch. August alone saw a peak of 210,413 simultaneous players. This latest record beats its previous high on PC by a small margin. In addition, Delta Force made its way to consoles, launching on Xbox Series S|X and PlayStation 5 on August 19, 2025, which helped boost its player base across different platforms in that month.

    Gameplay Elements and Surprising Records

    Delta Force features massive PVP battles mixed with elements of extraction shooters and a campaign that pays tribute to the 2001 film. This is particularly notable in regions like China, which has its own tailored version of the game. Interestingly, the record peak of players happened without a major content update, unlike the previous peak which was driven by the launch of Season 5 on July 10.

    In light of this success, Delta Force is gearing up for its first-ever esports Invitational in China from September 19 to 21, 2025. This event will showcase 12 teams from eight different regions competing for the title of world champion and a cut of the $500,000 prize pool. The game is gradually shifting towards the competitive gaming scene, maintaining its upward trajectory.

    Player Concerns and Game History

    Nevertheless, players have voiced concerns about AI-laden servers and issues with cheaters. Furthermore, the game’s free-to-play model includes various cosmetic microtransactions, while its cross-platform feature continues to support this business model.

    Originally, Delta Force launched as a tactical FPS created by NovaLogic for Windows in October 1998. It utilized the Voxel Space engine, which offered unprecedented draw distances and terrain details for first-person shooters at that time.

    The game was well-received, gaining praise for its mission structure and sound design, though it faced criticism for its lower realism levels. Its multiplayer mode allowed for LAN and online play with up to 32 players, alongside co-op support, which replaced the NPC Delta Force Operators.

    In 2016, the Delta Force IP transitioned from NovaLogic to THQ Nordic, and in August 2023, Tencent acquired the rights from THQ Nordic, announcing plans for a reboot of the franchise with a teaser trailer.

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  • CheckMag RomM: The Ultimate Self-Hosted Retro Gaming Manager

    CheckMag RomM: The Ultimate Self-Hosted Retro Gaming Manager

    Key Takeaways

    1. Easy Setup and Organization: RomM simplifies game setup by allowing users to import thousands of ROMs, automatically gathering metadata and organizing games by platform.

    2. Wide Compatibility: Built on EmulatorJS, RomM supports various systems up to the original PlayStation and includes touch controls for mobile browsers, as well as keyboard and gamepad support.

    3. Docker Installation Requirements: Users must create a Docker container and a MariaDB container for installation, with pre-built templates available for platforms like Unraid and TrueNAS.

    4. Importance of Folder Structure: Proper folder structure on the NAS is essential for metadata scraping, requiring ROM and BIOS files to be organized correctly to ensure smooth operation.

    5. Future Enhancements: The developers plan to add features like console mode for TVs and built-in PSP and DOS emulation, signaling ongoing support and updates for RomM.

    Being able to play self-hosted games in your browser isn’t a new concept. For over a decade, EmulatorJS has been catering to this need by utilizing RetroArch’s libretto cores to provide game emulation.

    RomM’s Unique Features

    RomM takes advantage of EmulatorJS and RetroArch to run games online. Its standout feature is the simplicity of setup, as well as its capabilities for metadata scraping, ROM organization, and support for RetroAchievements. During the initial setup, you can import thousands of ROMs, and if they are named right, it will automatically gather screenshots and metadata from places like Screen Scraper and IGDB. You can add new games via the web interface, which organizes everything by platform, including cover images, screenshots, and gameplay videos.

    Compatibility and Controls

    Since RomM is built on EmulatorJS, it enables you to play almost any system directly in your browser. Mobile browsers allow for touch controls, but it also supports keyboards and gamepads, as touch screens are not the best for enjoying retro games.

    While my personal ROM library doesn’t cover every system that RomM and EmulatorJS support, systems up to the original PlayStation work smoothly. Nintendo and Sega consoles are included, along with Neo Geo, TurboGrafx, and a good variety of arcade ROMs like CPS 1 and 2. Unfortunately, later consoles such as the Dreamcast, GameCube, and PS2 cannot be emulated directly in the browser, though you can easily download them to your preferred emulator.

    Installation Process

    Setting up RomM is fairly simple. You will need to create a Docker container, and the compose file can be found here. Additionally, a corresponding MariaDB container is necessary. If you’re already using MariaDB for other services, like Immich, you can either run separate instances or utilize Adminer to create a new database and user within the same instance. Pre-built templates for these setups are available on Unraid and TrueNAS. Don’t forget to create accounts with Screen Scraper and IGDB to get a client ID and secret for metadata scraping.

    Although RomM’s documentation is quite helpful for setup, there were some parts that confused me initially.

    To proceed, you need to generate a RomM_AUTH_SECRET_KEY, which can be done in the terminal by typing “openssl rand -hex 32”. Make sure to paste the generated output in the right section of your compose file.

    Configuration Files

    Recent versions of RomM also need a config.yml file. An example file is available on the RomM GitHub page, and it should be placed in the “config” folder mentioned in the container compose file.

    After you have the containers running, you should see an account creation screen to access the system. There are a few more steps before scanning your ROM library.

    Once inside RomM, before scanning your game library, it’s a good idea to go to your account settings and choose library management. This helps ensure that all platforms are linked to the correct folders on your NAS. I encountered issues with metadata scraping when I didn’t do this, even though the games were imported correctly. You can map these in the config.yml file, but if you used the GitHub template, you’ll likely want to adjust this in the library management area.

    Folder Structure Check

    It’s also important to verify that the folder structure on your NAS meets the documentation’s requirements. ROM and BIOS files should be in separate directories, with each system having its own correctly named folder within those directories. Once again, the documentation is your best resource for this.

    If everything is set up right, running a scan will start filling your library. In my experience, metadata matched about 90% of the files, with most mismatches due to incorrect file names. Thanks to the built-in search function, it was easy to manually match any missing titles.

    Emulating Arcade Games

    When emulating arcade games in the browser, you can choose between MAME 2003, Final Burn Neo, and Final Burn Alpha 1 or 2 for Arcade, Neo Geo, and CPS systems. I found Final Burn Neo to be the most reliable for loading games. Other consoles like NES, SNES, Genesis, and Game Boy functioned without any issues. RomM allows you to upload BIOS files for specific platforms when emulating games. However, for Neo Geo, I had to place the BIOS files into every ROM for it to work, which might not be ideal for everyone.

    Save States and Handheld Support

    Save states are consistent across browsers as long as you are logged into RomM with the same account, allowing you to switch devices during gameplay without any hassle.

    RomM also supports custom operating systems for retro handheld devices. If you own a handheld that can run MustardOS, like the Anbernic RG35XX H (which is available on Amazon), you can connect to your RomM instance and download games wirelessly.

    Future Updates

    The developers are continually updating the software, promising features such as a console mode for a big screen TV, along with built-in PSP and DOS emulation, which will function right out of the box. While there are alternatives such as RetroAssembly that offer similar features, RomM still has a lot to explore and even more exciting updates on the horizon.

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    CheckMag RomM: The Ultimate Self-Hosted Retro Gaming ManagerCheckMag RomM: The Ultimate Self-Hosted Retro Gaming ManagerCheckMag RomM: The Ultimate Self-Hosted Retro Gaming Manager

     

  • Resident Evil Chooses Barbarians and Weapons Director for Film

    Resident Evil Chooses Barbarians and Weapons Director for Film

    Key Takeaways

    1. Zach Cregger, known for horror films like Barbarian, will direct the new Resident Evil adaptation.
    2. The film is set to be released on September 18, 2026, focusing on atmospheric tension rather than action.
    3. Cregger is a passionate fan of the Resident Evil games, having spent extensive time playing them.
    4. The movie will draw inspiration from the settings and tones of Resident Evil 2, 3, and 4 while maintaining flexibility in its storyline.
    5. The adaptation aims to meet high expectations from both new viewers and long-time fans, especially after mixed reactions to previous films.

    Zach Cregger, who gained recognition as the director of horror films like Barbarian and Weapons, has been chosen to lead the upcoming film adaptation of Capcom’s Resident Evil series.

    Release Date and Focus

    The untitled Resident Evil project, which was revealed earlier this year, is set to be released on September 18, 2026. This new adaptation aims to offer a fresh perspective, emphasizing atmospheric tension and excitement rather than the action-heavy style of previous films.

    A Passionate Fan

    What makes Cregger unique is his connection to the Resident Evil fanbase. During a conversation with Double Toasted, he expressed:

    “I’ve spent, honestly, thousands and thousands of hours playing Resident Evil. I just know how the pacing should flow, and it’s naturally cinematic. I believe there’s a fantastic movie waiting to be made within this universe and its pacing.”

    Cregger, a devoted enthusiast of the franchise, has enjoyed numerous main series games, including the remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 3, as well as the action-focused Resident Evil 4. Interestingly, he admitted he hasn’t watched any of the previous Resident Evil films.

    Insight on the Movie’s Timeline

    In his interview, he also discussed the film’s timeline, saying:

    “I’m a massive fan of the games. It probably leans more towards the settings of 2 and 3, but it resonates more with the tone of 4. The games are quite adaptable; 2 and 3 are set in Raccoon City, while 4 takes place in Spain and feels like it belongs in the past, even though it doesn’t.

    Then you have 7, which is like a Texas Chainsaw vibe, and 8 takes you to an ancient European village, definitely feeling historical.”

    Cregger’s interpretation of the Resident Evil universe is somewhat flexible, aligning with the evolving settings found in each game installment. He added:

    “The games themselves don’t have a strict lore. It’s not fixed. Therefore, I don’t feel like I’m straying any further from the established franchise than it does. I’m just shading within the lines.”

    High Expectations

    Cregger faces significant expectations as he delves into the Resident Evil lore, aiming to redefine the series for both new and long-time fans. The franchise’s reputation has been somewhat marred by past live-action adaptations that some fans felt missed the mark.

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  • 8BitDo Teases New Wireless Controller for Upcoming Game Update

    8BitDo Teases New Wireless Controller for Upcoming Game Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. 8BitDo has launched new wireless controllers, including the 8BitDo 64, Ultimate 3-mode Rare 40th Anniversary Edition, and Pro 3 this summer.
    2. The Ultimate 2 controller now has new color editions: Green, Yellow, and Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, priced at $64.99.
    3. 8BitDo is teasing a partnership with miHoYo for a Honkai: Star Rail-themed controller.
    4. The upcoming controller is based on the Ultimate 2 and features a custom purple design inspired by the game.
    5. The official announcement for the new controller will be on September 12, with the Evernight character launch happening two weeks later.

    8BitDo has been quite busy lately, launching several new wireless controllers. To give some background, the company rolled out the 8BitDo 64, the Ultimate 3-mode Rare 40th Anniversary Edition, and the Pro 3 this summer. In addition, the Ultimate 2 wireless controller has seen several makeovers with new colors and options for various systems.

    New Color Editions

    To summarize, the Ultimate 2 now comes in Green, Yellow, and Wuchang: Fallen Feathers editions, currently priced at $64.99 on Amazon. These editions join the controller’s original color options. Recently, 8BitDo has started teasing a new partnership with the developers at miHoYo for their game, Honkai: Star Rail. This free-to-play RPG has been accessible on Android, iOS, PlayStation 5, and Windows for a while.

    Exciting Collaboration Ahead

    However, 8BitDo has chosen to wait until the launch of the Evernight character to unveil a Honkai: Star Rail-themed wireless controller. It seems that the controller being teased is the Ultimate 2, featuring a custom purple design inspired by Honkai: Star Rail. Sadly, 8BitDo is keeping details under wraps for the moment. The official announcement for the new controller is set for September 12, but players will have to wait two weeks after that to play as Evernight in Honkai: Star Rail.

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  • Lenovo Justifies Legion Go 2’s Price for Dedicated Gamers

    Lenovo Justifies Legion Go 2’s Price for Dedicated Gamers

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Legion Go 2 is priced at $1,100 for the base model and $1,350 for the Ryzen Z2 Extreme variant, which has upset many fans due to its high cost compared to other handhelds.
    2. It features an 8-inch 2K OLED screen, 144 Hz refresh rate, and detachable controllers, making it a high-end gaming device.
    3. Lenovo aims the Legion Go 2 at “enthusiast gamers” willing to invest in premium gaming experiences, despite the small target market.
    4. Advanced components like the SoC and OLED technology contribute to the device’s elevated price, justifying it in Lenovo’s view.
    5. The Legion Go 2 will support the Xbox full-screen experience (FSE) starting in spring 2026, enhancing gaming performance compared to other models.

    Lenovo has just announced the Legion Go 2, which is the new version of its handheld gaming device that was launched nearly two years ago. This updated model comes with a much steeper price compared to its predecessor and even against some of the newer handhelds on the market. Many fans who were eagerly awaiting the Legion Go 2 are upset about the starting price of $1,100, but Lenovo seems confident about the value they’re offering with this device.

    Models and Pricing

    The Legion Go 2 features two different versions: one equipped with the AMD Ryzen Z2 and another with the Z2 Extreme SoC. Both versions include an 8-inch 2K OLED screen that refreshes at 144 Hz, along with detachable controllers. The Ryzen Z2 Extreme variant is set at $1,350 and includes 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage. In contrast, the MSI Claw A8, which has the Z2 Extreme, 24 GB of RAM, and a non-OLED 1,200p display (with a lower refresh rate), retails for £850 (about $1,151 USD).

    Justifying the Cost

    Lenovo has defended the high price, which is comparable to gaming laptops. In a recent group interview with PC Watch in Japan, several Lenovo executives were questioned about the pricing and whether it might discourage potential buyers. They replied (translated by machines) that the Legion Go 2 is aimed at “enthusiast gamers who are prepared to invest in their hobbies.” Although this market segment may be small, they believe it holds significant importance.

    Performance Features

    The company pointed out that the advanced components, like the SoC and OLED technology, are the reasons behind the Legion Go 2’s high cost. For those who prefer a different handheld gaming experience, Lenovo recommends the Legion Go S (available on Amazon).

    As per The Verge, the Legion Go 2 will be the first handheld, apart from the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X, to support the Xbox full-screen experience (FSE). This feature won’t be available at launch but is expected to roll out in spring 2026. The FSE is designed to optimize resources, which could lead to better gaming performance. Nonetheless, other more affordable handhelds, like the ROG Ally X, are also expected to receive the Xbox FSE eventually.

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  • Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Box Art Leak Shows NiGHTS as DLC Character

    Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Box Art Leak Shows NiGHTS as DLC Character

    Key Takeaways

    1. New DLC Characters: A leak revealed potential new racers for Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, including Ichiban Kasuga from Like A Dragon and Joker from Persona 5.

    2. Surprise Addition: Nights, from the classic NiGHTS into DREAMS, was unexpectedly included as a racer in the game, exciting longtime fans.

    3. Open Beta Success: The Open Network Test, which ended on September 1, 2025, allowed players to experience gameplay and special events before launch.

    4. Demo Release: A playable demo is set for mid-September, with the official game launching on September 25, 2025, and early access for Digital Deluxe Edition pre-orders on September 22.

    5. Ties to Previous Content: The leak connects to hints from SEGA’s TailsTube web series, which featured Nights and showcased the game’s vehicle designs.

    Sega is stirring excitement with its upcoming title Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, as a recent leak has sent fans into a tizzy. Just weeks before the launch, pre-order box art has revealed a new DLC racer that many were not expecting.

    Exciting Discoveries

    The buzz around the game intensified when a user on Reddit discovered potential new characters for the post-launch DLC. The post, shared by user Any_Skill_6710 on the r/SonicTheHedgehog subreddit, showed a pre-order cover from New Zealand featuring artwork that hinted at some free DLC characters. Among those mentioned was Ichiban Kasuga from the Like A Dragon series, alongside Joker from Persona 5, which Sega had previously confirmed.

    A Nostalgic Addition

    However, tucked within the artwork was a surprise racer that fans were not anticipating: Nights, the whimsical dream-flying character from the 1996 classic NiGHTS into DREAMS on the Sega Saturn. Nights has been a familiar face in various Sonic games, making appearances in titles such as Sonic Adventure 2 and Sonic & All-Stars Racing: Transformed, among others.

    The excitement for Sonic Racing: Crossworlds has been building ever since the game launched its open beta, officially called the Open Network Test, which wrapped up on September 1, 2025. This test allowed players to experience the gameplay, tracks, and initial crossovers, including a special Joker-themed event inspired by Persona 5.

    Upcoming Demo and Release

    A playable demo is set to release in mid-September, allowing fans a preview before the official launch on September 25, 2025. Those who opt for the Digital Deluxe Edition can access the game three days early on September 22.

    This leak aligns perfectly with hints dropped in SEGA’s TailsTube web series, which featured an episode on Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, showcasing a vehicle inspired by Nights. While Nights has primarily appeared in cameo roles since its last main title in 2010’s NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams for the Nintendo Wii, the character remains a beloved figure in various Sega spin-off games.

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  • Steam Deck Touchscreen Dock with 4TB SSD Launching on Kickstarter

    Steam Deck Touchscreen Dock with 4TB SSD Launching on Kickstarter

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Chizha Mount Ling Dock will launch on Kickstarter in September, with a “Super Early Bird” price of $129, rising to $199 later.
    2. The “Game Changer Bundle” includes a portable SSD enclosure for $189, with additional costs for shipping and taxes.
    3. The dock features multiple ports, including USB-C (10 Gbps), USB-A, Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI 2.0, and Toslink for audio devices.
    4. It has a cooling system with a fan that spins at 5,000 RPM and operates quietly at 28dB, designed not to obstruct the Steam Deck’s fan.
    5. A unique 3-inch touchscreen allows users to control RGB lighting, monitor fan status, and check the resolution and transfer speed of connected devices.

    The Chizha Mount Ling Dock was first revealed in June, and Dockcase has now shared more details about its launch. This docking station is set to be crowdfunded on Kickstarter starting in September. The “Super Early Bird” price will be $129, but the retail price is expected to rise to $199 later on.

    Different Bundles Available

    There is also a “Game Changer Bundle” that comes with a portable SSD enclosure for $189. Keep in mind that these prices do not include shipping or any possible import costs and taxes. This makes the Steam Deck dock pricier, especially when compared to simpler docks from brands like Anker, which can be found for about $30 on Amazon. However, the Dockcase is anticipated to provide more features, such as a variety of ports, including an extra USB-C port (10 Gbps), two USB-A ports, Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI 2.0 for 4K HDR monitors at 60Hz, and Toslink for connecting soundbars or external speakers.

    Features and Cooling System

    Handheld gaming devices can be charged through USB-C Power Delivery with up to 100 watts. The dock includes a fan that can spin at 5,000 revolutions per minute, helping to cool the handheld while gaming. The ventilation slots on the dock are designed not to obstruct the Steam Deck’s built-in fan. With a noise level that reaches up to 28dB, the dock is likely to be very quiet. Additionally, there is an M.2 2280 slot for a single PCIe SSD that can hold up to 4TB of data.

    Unique Touchscreen Control

    One of the most interesting aspects of the dock is its 3-inch touchscreen at the front, boasting a resolution of 560 x 170 pixels. This touchscreen enables users to manage the RGB lighting and fan, as well as check the status of the ports. For instance, it allows users to view the resolution of a connected monitor or the transfer speed of a USB device.

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    Steam Deck Touchscreen Dock with 4TB SSD Launching on Kickstarter

     

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  • Treyarch Confirms Call of Duty Black Ops 7 Will Remaster Black Ops 2 Maps

    Treyarch Confirms Call of Duty Black Ops 7 Will Remaster Black Ops 2 Maps

    Key Takeaways

    1. Treyarch’s Design Director confirmed remastered maps from Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 will be part of Black Ops 7’s post-launch content.
    2. Black Ops 7 will feature familiar characters from Black Ops 2, enhancing nostalgia for long-time fans.
    3. At launch, the multiplayer mode will include 16 maps: 13 new originals and 3 remastered maps from Black Ops 2, including Express and Raid.
    4. The remastered maps will have a vibrant color scheme, similar to Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War.
    5. Rumors suggest more remastered maps, like Hijacked and Standoff, may also be included in Black Ops 7.

    During a fast-paced Q&A round for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Treyarch’s Design Director, Matt Scronce, confirmed that the post-launch content will include remastered maps from Call of Duty: Black Ops 2.

    Exciting News for Fans

    When asked if there would be any unremastered maps from Black Ops 2 in the new game, Scronce confidently replied, “Yeah, you can.” This is thrilling news for long-time Black Ops enthusiasts who have been waiting for updates on classic maps since the game’s debut in November 2012.

    Nostalgia and Familiar Faces

    Since Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 continues the storyline from Black Ops 2, it will feature characters like Raul Menendez and David Mason, the son of Alex Mason from Black Ops 1, who dies during the “Suffer With Me” mission in Black Ops 2. In keeping with this, Black Ops 7 is expected to focus on nostalgia, incorporating gameplay mechanics from earlier Call of Duty installments.

    As per reliable insider TheGhostofHope, at launch, Black Ops 7’s multiplayer mode will include 16 6v6 maps, comprising 13 new originals and three remastered maps from Black Ops 2.

    Colorful Changes Ahead

    These remastered maps from Black Ops 2 will introduce a more vibrant color scheme compared to what we’ve seen in Black Ops 6, resembling the aesthetics found in Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War. Confirmed returning maps include Express and Raid, which are considered essential for Black Ops 2’s multiplayer experience.

    The additional maps available at launch will feature The Forge, Toshin, Exposure, Cortez, Scar, Den, Homestead, Colossus, Imprint, Dry Dock, Retrieval, Paranoia, and the notable Black Heart. Plus, Ground War mode will showcase two new, larger maps.

    Rumors and Hopes for More

    Further rumors suggest that Hijacked might join Express as another remastered map at launch. Players are eager to see some beloved Black Ops 2 maps return, such as the compact Yemen and the spacious Plaza, ideal for mid-range battles.

    Speculation is also growing that Standoff could be part of Black Ops 7, alongside Meltdown, both of which have not yet received remasters despite their popularity in the multiplayer landscape of Black Ops 2.

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  • Amazon’s God of War Live-Action Filming Starts March 2026

    Amazon’s God of War Live-Action Filming Starts March 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazon will begin filming its live-action adaptation of God of War in Vancouver, Canada, in March 2026.
    2. The casting process is currently ongoing, with heightened activity since the project’s announcement in December 2021.
    3. Ronald D. Moore is the showrunner and has assembled a strong writing team, including notable writers from various successful series.
    4. Season one will have 10 episodes, adapting the 2018 game’s story of Kratos and his son, Atreus, as they fulfill a personal quest.
    5. Significant creative changes are expected, and two seasons are planned to fully explore the Norse saga, with a tight schedule for finalizing the cast.

    Amazon has announced that it will start filming its live-action version of God of War in Vancouver, Canada, in March 2026, as reported by Nexus Point News.

    Casting Updates

    The casting process for the God of War series is currently in progress, and activities have intensified since the project was first revealed in December 2021. Produced by Amazon MGM Studios, Sony Pictures Television, PlayStation Productions, and Santa Monica Studios, the series aims to deliver an epic narrative steeped in Norse mythology, following the story of Kratos from the 2018 game.

    Showrunner and Writers

    Ronald D. Moore, well-known for his work on Outlander, For All Mankind, and Battlestar Galactica, is stepping in as the showrunner. He has gathered a skilled team of writers that includes Matthew Graham from Electric Dreams, Stephanie Shannon of Outlander fame, Narendra K. Shankar who worked on The Expanse and For All Mankind, Joe Menosky from Star Trek Discovery, Marc Bernardin from The Continental, and Tania Lotia from The Witcher.

    During the San Diego Comic-Con 2025, Moore shared some exciting news about the progress of the adaptation, saying:

    “We’re currently in the scripts phase. We’re still actively working on scripts. Everything is going very well. We’ve got a fantastic team.

    It’s been a really interesting project to dive into. I’ve never adapted a video game before, and the more I explored it, the more I was amazed by the richness and complexity of the mythology in this game.”

    Season One Details

    The first season is planned to consist of 10 episodes, directly adapting the narrative from the 2018 God of War game, where Kratos steps down from his position as the Olympian God of War to lead a quieter life in the Norse world with his son, Atreus.

    In their quest to carry out the last wish of Kratos’ wife, which is to scatter her ashes from the highest peak of the Nine Realms, father and son face numerous challenges, including a confrontation with Baldur that triggers a series of divine conflicts.

    It is anticipated that Moore will implement significant creative changes to the project, which has seen various showrunners. He plans to develop two seasons to thoroughly explore the Norse saga. Pre-production has been ongoing since mid-2025, and the March 2026 filming timeline creates a tight schedule for finalizing the cast.

    Fans are left wondering who will ultimately portray Kratos and his son, Atreus, given the limited time frame for casting.

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