Category: Gaming

  • PS5 Slim Certified Refurbished Prices Rise $100 Amid Cheaper PS5 Alternatives

    PS5 Slim Certified Refurbished Prices Rise $100 Amid Cheaper PS5 Alternatives

    Key Takeaway

    1. Sony increased prices of certified refurbished PS5 Slim consoles by $100, with digital and disc editions now costing $499.99 and $549.99, respectively.
    2. The PS5 Slim offers 1 TB of storage, compared to the previous Fat version’s 825 GB, but refurbished Fat units are still available for $399.
    3. Refurbished PS5 Slims include a full-year warranty, a DualSense controller, and all necessary cables, with only minor cosmetic wear.
    4. Launch PS5 models had issues like overheating, storage limitations, and potential liquid metal leakage, which have been addressed in the Slim models.
    5. Sony’s new pricing for the PS5 Digital and Disc editions is now $599.99 and $649.99, respectively, with the PS5 Pro at $899.99.

    Price Hikes on Refurbished PlayStation 5 Slim

    Recently, Sony quietly bump up the price of their Certified Refurbished PlayStation 5 Slims. Now, the Digital Edition is priced at $499.99, an increase of $100 from the previous $399.99. For the disc-drive version, the price has gone up to $549.99 from $449.99. This change may surprised many gamers who were hoping for affordable options in the pre-owned market.

    The Current Market for PS5 Consoles

    Before these price rises, the main affordable option was the PS5 Fortnite Flowering Chaos bundle, which came with a Digital Edition for only $399. Sadly, that bundle has been sold out both on Sony’s official site and most retail stores. So, now, gamers looking for less than $400 PS5s are left with limited choices. Refurbished units now come with a full year’s warranty, include a DualSense controller and all the basic cables, but they do show signs of wear, like cosmetic scuffs or minor scratches, and might have been previously returned or repaired.

    Details of the PS5 Slim and Its Storage

    The Slim version of the PS5 offers a 1 TB of storage capacity, an upgrade from the original “Fat” PS5’s 825 GB, giving users more space to store games and apps. Interestingly, if players prefer, they can still buy a refurbished “Fat” PS5 for $399, which keeps options open for budget-conscious buyers. Nonetheless, the “Fat” models have their own setbacks, such as quicker dust buildup and overheating issues, largely because of design differences that affected airflow and cooling.

    Consider the Drawbacks of Older PS5 Models

    One downside of the launch PS5 was its larger, bulkier form compared to the sleeker Slim. Its ventilation system was prone to clogging with dust, especially around the PSU, leading to hardware failures in some cases. Storage was also a concern, with only 825 GB available out of the box — and mere 667 GB usable. Additionally, there had been reports of issues with the liquid metal cooling interface leaking when the console was placed vertically, which increased the risk of internal component damage.

    Impact of Price Increase on New and Refurbished Consoles

    Following Sony’s announcement of a price hike starting April 2, the new PS5 models now cost significantly more across online stores. The Digital Edition is priced at $599.99 and the disc version even reaches $649.99. The more advanced PS5 Pro now retails for a staggering $899.99. This shift indicates Sony’s strategy to position their latest consoles at higher price points, affecting both new and refurbished units in the market.

    Sources
  • Steam Controller Sold Out at Launch as Scalpers Inflate Price to $250

    Steam Controller Sold Out at Launch as Scalpers Inflate Price to $250

    Key Takeaway

    1. High demand and immediate sell-out led to website crashes and purchase errors during the Steam Controller launch.
    2. The controller is currently unavailable in the U.S., with limited availability in Europe and Asia.
    3. Scalpers are reselling the controller at over twice the retail price due to scarcity.
    4. The launch excitement raises concerns about future Valve hardware releases, like the Steam Machine and Frame VR headset.
    5. Valve appears to have managed supply issues better for the Steam Controller compared to recent hardware, suggesting possible ongoing stock reinforcement.

    High Demand Leads to Quick Sold-Out Status

    Even though the price of the Steam Controller is higher than some people thought, the demand for this gadget still is quite strong. Within just an hour of being up for sale, many gamers saw warning that the products were sold out. Even those who managed to buy one faced many errors from Valve’s online shop, which were quite frustrating for many.

    Early Launch and Technical Glitches

    Fans were set to buy the controller at 1PM ET/6PM GMT, but it actually went live a few minutes early — causing some chaos. The excitement was soon replaced with irritation when users tried to pay for their orders and kept hitting error messages that said “error initializing or updating your transaction.” The chaos continued, with some users finally getting through after trying repeatedly, but others couldn’t get their orders to go through at all.

    Availability and Scalp Prices

    Right now, you can’t get the PC controller from the U.S. store at all, but it might appear again for a short time in the future. European buyers could get a little longer window before stocks run out. Meanwhile, in Asia, the high traffic overloading Valve’s servers caused the Komodo Station site to crash entirely.

    Scalping and Resale Market Rising

    With so many folks refreshing to check stock, many say selling prices on eBay are already way above the normal retail price, sometimes more than double. Sellers who bought multiple units are flipping them for profit, making it super hard for regular fans to get one at retail price.

    Excitement Surrounds Valve’s New Hardware

    The Steam Controller is especially noteworthy because it features dual trackpads, marking one of Valve’s biggest hardware releases since the Steam Deck OLED in 2023. But, given the rough start, fans are now worried about upcoming products like the Steam Machine and Frame VR headset. Those items could also be expensive, especially the mini PC setup, which is catching a lot of excitement.

    Looking Forward to Restocks

    The good thing is, the Steam Controller probably won’t get as impacted by memory shortages, and Valve might already be working to restock the device soon. Fans hopeful for another chance need to stay patient and keep an eye on the store pages for updates.

    Sources
  • Fallout Creator Tim Cain Criticizes Influencer Culture and Gamer Judgment

    Fallout Creator Tim Cain Criticizes Influencer Culture and Gamer Judgment

    Key Takeaway

    1. Gamers are increasingly relying on YouTube and Twitch influencers for opinions and recommendations, often abdicating their own judgment.
    2. Influencers create deeper parasocial bonds with viewers, shifting the industry focus from balanced reviews to personalized endorsements.
    3. The rise of influencer-driven content has influenced game design, with developers tailoring games to generate popular clips, potentially impacting creative integrity.
    4. There is concern that this trend leads to less exploration and personal discovery among gamers, reducing diversity in their game preferences.

    Old School Gaming Perspectives

    Tim Cain, who created the infamous Fallout back in 1997, has been in the game industry for ages, and he’s got some strong opinions about how things have been changing lately. He recently talk about how many players just follow trends set by YouTubers and Twitch streamers instead of discovering their own favorites. Basically, he think that game fans are less explorative and more easily influenced now days. For someone who’s seen it all, that’s kind of worrying.

    Evolution of Game Discovery

    Back in the day, gamers used to pick games by reading the back covers or flipping through magazines, relying heavily on word of mouth. Cain reminisces about this simpler time, where players weren’t bombarded with guides and reviews beforehand. Now, the scene is vastly different with influencers leading the way, which Cain believes can be both good and bad. He sees the early days of indie experimentation but feels that the influence from online personalities has shifted the entire landscape.

    The Rise of Influencers & Their Impact

    His take about YouTubers and streamers is that they don’t just show gameplay but also recommend whether or not you should buy a game. These personalities have created bonds with viewers that are often more personal and intense than traditional magazines or reviews ever could be. That influences players’ opinions a lot, sometimes more than objective reviews, which Cain finds unhealthy for the industry.

    Industry Changes and Developer Strategies

    Developers are now focusing on making their games more ‘clip-friendly,’ trying to create moments that influencers will want to share online. Cain mentions that this new era pushes developers to think about what scenes will go viral instead of focusing solely on the game’s quality or innovation. This shift leads to a concern that many games might become more about spectacle than substance, which Cain calls “probably not a healthy way of designing a game.”

    Conclusion: The Future of Gaming Opinions

    At the end of the day, Cain fears that many gamers are just blindly following online voices, losing their ability to form honest and independent opinions about games. Instead of analyzing what they like or dislike, they are told what to think by influencers, which could hurt the industry in the long run. It’s clear that Cain feels the trend might be pushing gaming in less authentic directions, making it harder for new ideas to grow.

    Sources
  • Pokémon TCG Pocket Pulsing Aura Expansion Features Mega Lucario ex

    Pokémon TCG Pocket Pulsing Aura Expansion Features Mega Lucario ex

    Key Takeaway

    1. The Pulsing Aura expansion introduces 234 new cards focused on Mega Evolutions, with mechanics that reward knocking out Mega cards.
    2. The update includes new support cards and a gold frame feature for collecting multiple copies, enhancing gameplay and collection strategies.
    3. Special in-game events and tournaments offer exclusive rewards, including legendary cards, promo packs, and collectible emblems, shaping the competitive landscape.

    Major Expansion Release in Pokémon TCG Pocket

    Pokémon TCG Pocket have dropped its most biggest expansion since the game was first launch. The Pulsing Aura set hit the market on April 28, containing total of 234 new cards for the digital trading card game, also initiating a whole month of special events that will last through late May. The new content is now available on both iOS and Android devices, making it easy for players to join the fun wherever they are.

    Introduction of the Expansion

    Launched in October 2024, Pokémon TCG Pocket is a simplified digital adaptation of the original Pokémon Trading Card Game. In this game, players can gather cards from booster packs, create their own decks and engage in real-time battles with others. Since it debut, it has earned over $1.6 billion from the players worldwide, outdoing Pokémon GO’s first-year revenues and setting a record for the most successful Pokémon mobile game debut so far. The platform has become quite popular among Pokémon fans who love digital card games.

    Highlights of the New Set

    The Pulsing Aura expansion puts a focus on Mega Evolutions, a mechanics that gives a Pokémon a temporary power boost during fights. The spotlight cards are Mega Lucario ex and Mega Sceptile ex, which fans have long been requesting since the initial launch. In total, ten new ex cards are introduced, along with two Immersive Rares featuring Sobble and Mega Lucario ex, plus two Crown Rares showcasing Bombirdier and Celebi. A new rule also features in this set: knocking out a Mega Evolution card awards 3 points to the opponent, which could lead to an immediate win in Pokémon TCG Pocket, thus leading to new deck strategies and gameplay tactics.

    Strategic Support Cards

    • Korrina: A Supporter card that increases the damage of all your Pokémon’s attacks by 30 against the opponent’s Active ex Pokémon during that turn.
    • Arena of Antiquity: A Stadium card that permanently adds 20 damage to any Pokémon’s attack against the opponent’s active ex Pokémon.

    When combined, Mega Lucario ex can deal up to 190 damage, making it one of the strongest attacks anymore in the current meta game. Additionally, Pulsing Aura introduces a shiny gold frame that rewards players who collect 10 copies of a specific card with a gold border that can be retroactively applied to existing collections, rewarding dedicated collectors.

    Events and Exciting Content

    The game celebrates its 1.5 anniversary with a special event that is running till early May. During this period, players can complete solo battles to earn promo cards and missions that unlock Mega Zygarde ex, a legendary Pokémon not obtainable through regular packs. The Pulsing Aura Emblem Event continues until May 13, offering profile emblems and items to players who participate in ranked matches. Another community-focused event begins on May 9 and lasts until May 16, centered on trading cards, where players share, exchange, and earn Trade Hourglasses and exclusive accessories.

    Upcoming Limited-Time Events

    • Mega Heracross ex Drop Event: Starts May 12, ends May 29, and offers the chance to earn B Series Volume 8 promo packs.
    • Ranked Season 13: Takes place from May 13 to May 27.
    • Mini-Expansion: A B3a-themed set with over 100 new cards will debut on May 28.

    Overall, Pokémon TCG Pocket continues to grow with new expansions, events, and features that keep the gameplay fresh and engaging for fans. It is free to download and play on the App Store and Google Play, inviting both newcomers and veteran players to experience this digital Pokémon card adventure.

  • LEGO Retro Console Coming Next Month at Affordable Price

    LEGO Retro Console Coming Next Month at Affordable Price

    Key Takeaway

    1. The LEGO SEGA Mega Drive set is affordable at $39.99, making it more accessible than previous retro console sets.
    2. The set offers the option to build either the SEGA Mega Drive or the SEGA Genesis, reflecting both regional versions.
    3. While fans appreciate the price, some wish for a larger set and have critiqued the controllers as being somewhat basic.

    Exciting News for Retro Gaming Fans

    LEGO is making waves with their latest retro console build, the SEGA Mega Drive. This new release is catching attention among collectors and LEGO enthusiasts alike. Fans are thrilled because it offers a chance to recreate a classic gaming symbol in an easy-to-build form, all with a nostalgic vibe. The model, which is scheduled to launch on June 1, adds to LEGO’s growing collection of vintage-themed sets.

    Affordable and Compact Design

    The price point seems to be a major highlight, costing only $39.99 — much cheaper than some of their earlier retro console sets. The build contains 479 pieces, making it slightly smaller but still quite detailed. The finished piece measures just over 1.5 inches tall, 6 inches wide, and 4.5 inches deep, making it perfect for display without taking up too much space.

    Details & Versatility

    A cool feature of this set is that it allows you to build either the SEGA Mega Drive or the SEGA Genesis, depending on your preference. The two models are very similar, with only small differences in details, which adds a fun element of customization for the user. The set is designed to cater to fans of both regions, making it inclusive for all nostalgic gamers.

    Community Reactions & Future Rumors

    In online discussions, particularly on Reddit, people have shown a mostly positive response to this LEGO set, especially praising the affordable price. Still, some fans have mentioned they would have preferred an option for a larger, more detailed set, even if it meant paying a bit more. The controllers, in particular, are seen as quite simple and basic by many users, which has been a common point of critique.

    What’s Next in LEGO Retro Line?

    Keep your eyes open for more retro gaming LEGO sets. Rumors are swirling about a LEGO PlayStation 1 model expected to be launched later in the year. As LEGO continues to expand their vintage console lineup, collectors and fans alike are eager to see what comes next in this nostalgic series.


    Sources

  • Windows 11 Gains Popularity on Steam While Linux Declines

    Windows 11 Gains Popularity on Steam While Linux Declines

    Key Takeaway

    1. Windows 11 continues to gain popularity, now accounting for 67.74% of Steam users, with Windows overall holding a dominant 93.47% share.
    2. Windows 10 experienced slight growth, increasing to 25.63%, while Windows 7 remains minimally used at 0.07%.
    3. Linux usage declined slightly after surpassing 5% earlier, now representing 4.52% of Steam users.
    4. The most common RAM configuration remains 16GB, with a growing segment of users adopting 32GB.
    5. The RTX 3060 is the most prevalent GPU among Steam users, with 8GB VRAM still being the popular choice.

    Steam Hardware & Software Survey Updates

    Valve has released their latest report about the Steam user base and hardware distributions, and in April 2026, Windows 11 continues to grow. Remember, just last month in March 2026, Windows 11 had about 66.65% of all users, and now it has increased by approximately 0.89%, moving to a significant share.

    Operating System Preferences Among Users

    Now, roughly 67.74% of Steam gamers are running Windows 11. Meanwhile, Windows 10, the previous generation, also saw a slight uptrend, rising from 25.36% to 25.63%, adding just around 0.27%. Windows 7 is only used by 0.07% of users, which keeps the overall Windows share hovering at 93.47%.

    Linux and Hardware Trends

    Linux’s presence on Steam dropped back to 4.52% after briefly surpassing 5% in March 2026. Servers on Linux seem to be bouncing back from that high. When it comes to hardware, most users (around 40.86%) are sporting 16GB of RAM. However, there’s been a rise in the number of gamers using 32GB RAM kits, which now makes up about 37.55% of systems—one popular option being the Corsair Vengeance RGB DDR5 32GB kit, now priced at $439.99.

    GPU Usage and Final Notes

    On the graphic card front, the RTX 3060 remains the most common choice, especially among those with 8GB of VRAM. If you want to know more about the detailed survey stats, you should visit the official site or look at previous reports from March 2026 for a detailed comparison.


    Sources

  • Rockstar Employee Leaks Unrealistic Demands to Avoid GTA 6 Delay

    Rockstar Employee Leaks Unrealistic Demands to Avoid GTA 6 Delay

    Key Takeaway

    1. Rockstar Games employees, particularly QA testers, face long hours and unpaid overtime, with reports of working up to 100 hours a week.
    2. Recent reviews suggest intense pressure and a hectic work schedule, impacting employees’ mental health amid the GTA 6 development.
    3. Despite acknowledging time crunches, the studio claims overtime is optional, but workers often feel compelled to work beyond standard hours.
    4. The potential leak indicates Rockstar is anxious about delays to GTA 6, which could have further repercussions for the studio and fan expectations.

    Uncovering The Working Conditions at Rockstar Games

    The recent review from a Rockstar employee on the job site Glassdoor shine a light on the possible difficulties faced by the studio. The worker from India, who works as a QA analyst in Bengaluru, expressed concerns about tight deadlines and excessive work hours. The revelations highlight the struggles behind developing one of the most eagerly awaited games, GTA 6. While some may question the authenticity of the review, it paints a picture of a studio under immense pressure to meet ambitious goals.

    Long Hours & The Cost to Employees

    This particular employee talk about working long and unpaid hours, including very late nights. It’s pretty much a reminder of the past when QA testers reportedly worked as many as 100 hours per week, sometimes without extra pay. The review mentions that employees often don’t leave work until 3AM, even after their tasks that normally take 5 to 6 months are compressed into just 2 to 3 months. It shows a relentless pace that many developers are subjected to, risking their mental health in the process.

    Fan & Industry Reactions to the Leak

    Fans following the GTA 6 countdown on social media are naturally concerned about what this could mean for the game’s release. The leak, if true, could suggest that Rockstar is trying to avoid yet another delay. With the ongoing pressures, the studio might be pushed to the brink, and the upcoming earnings day on May 21 is crucial since it may reveal more about what is the next step for the game’s launch and marketing strategy.

    Potential Impact on the Game’s Release Date

    Though a delay seems less probably now, the stress and workload described could lead to unexpected problems if not managed properly. The gaming community and investors are anxious, as they’re eager for more updates, especially a third trailer. Behind the scenes, Rockstar seems worried about the consequences of another postponement that could affect their reputation and sales. The work continuously ramps up, and many hope that leadership will address these stressful conditions soon, aiming for a fair balance between deadlines and employee well-being.


  • Capcom’s First Game Localization by Tom Shiraiwa as a One-Man Show

    Capcom’s First Game Localization by Tom Shiraiwa as a One-Man Show

    Key Takeaway

    1. Takuya “Tom” Shiraiwa was a pioneering figure in Capcom’s early localization efforts, handling English adaptations and translation single-handedly during the company’s initial growth.
    2. His role evolved from simply translating to acting as the key mediator between Capcom’s Japanese and overseas offices, influencing game success in Western markets.
    3. Modern localization practices at Capcom are collaborative and integrated early into game development, a significant shift from Shiraiwa’s DIY approach.

    Early Days of Localization

    Most folks might not think about Takuya “Tom” Shiraiwa when they think about Capcom’s roots, but he was a crucial part of their early days. He single-handedly became their go-to guy for localizing games into English, making sure that players around the world got a chance to enjoy their titles. Back then, he had the tough task of translating Japanese kanji into English, all by himself, especially in 1990 when no dedicated localization departments existed.

    His Role in Capcom

    Sitting down with Time Extension, Shiraiwa recalled how he started right after graduation, initially in sales and then quickly stepping into the role of English communicator at Capcom because no one else was suited for the job. Soon after, he full-heartedly dedicated himself to exporting arcade hardware and liaising with US subsidiaries. He said, “There was no such thing as ‘localization’ back then, just ‘text translation’”. It was just me, one guy handling all the work.”

    The Bridging Gap

    As time passed, Shiraiwa’s influence grow, making him a vital link between Japan and America. He was deeply involved in ensuring the success of Capcom’s games outside Japan. He was concerned whether the game’s appeal in the west was there or not. One story from a former Capcom employee recalls him showing a test video of Street Fighter III right before its US release, looking worried and pondering whether it will fly in the States.

    Transformation of Localization

    Nowadays, Capcom’s localization process looks totally different from those DIY days of Shiraiwa. When speaking with the company’s localization team in 2022, Andrew, who’s been involved in titles like Monster Hunter World, explained how efforts now are more organized. He shared, “Localization directors such as me are involved from early beginning. We basically move our desks to where the team is working and stay until the project complete.”

    Resignation and Next Chapter

    Sooner or later, Shiraiwa left Capcom in 2004 because he was feeling overworked and not receiving proper pay. Afterward, he moved to Square Enix, continuing his impactful career in the gaming industry. His work paved the way for the smoother, more collaborative localization processes we see today.

    Sources
  • PS6 Leaks Reveal Cross-Gen PS5 Support, Faster Cloud Gaming & Storage

    PS6 Leaks Reveal Cross-Gen PS5 Support, Faster Cloud Gaming & Storage

    Key Takeaway

    1. The PS6 is expected to feature upgraded PCIe Gen5 NVMe SSDs, offering significantly faster storage and load times compared to the PS5’s PCIe Gen4 SSD.
    2. Sony has been investing in new server technology to enhance cloud gaming, with the PS6 supporting faster streaming and remote play options, including the PlayStation Portal.
    3. The console is rumored to have a 1TB storage capacity, with efforts underway to reduce game installation sizes through techniques like neural texture compression and AI-based file downsizing.
    4. Cross-generation compatibility is planned, allowing PS5 and PS6 games to be played on both consoles, likely resulting in an extended PS5 lifecycle.

    Upcoming PlayStation 6 May Focus on Cloud Gaming

    Many of the rumours circulating around PS6 lately have been quite centered on the console’s hardware specs. But, there’s been talks suggesting that Sony is actually giving a good amount of attention to cloud gaming capacity as well. An article from MP1st explains how Sony bruger to have upgraded their infrastructure for better streaming speeds. For local gameplay, the system is said to include a significantly improved SSD. More evidence hinting that the hardware will support PS5 titles was also found.

    Improvements in Server and Storage Technologies

    James Lara report that Sony has been investing heavily into new server technology for over 3 years now. (That’s quite a long time!) One major update involves storage: the new PCIe Gen5 NVMe SSDs will dramatically increase data transfer speeds. Aligning with other rumors circulating the net, MP1st also believes that the PS6 will come pre-installed with the same type of drive. The current PS5 uses a PCIe Gen4 SSD, which greatly improves download speeds and load times. The new console’s specs might double these performance feats, but this might lead to price hikes for consumers. The shortages in storage and memory could push the final price higher, making cloud gaming even more attractive to many gamers.

    Expanding Cloud Gaming and Hardware Support

    Already, Sony has beefed up its streaming options through PS Plus Premium, and the PlayStation Portal has become a really popular mobile extension for game streaming. In future, the alleged PS6 handheld might be able to play PS5 games directly on the device. It might also support cloud gaming and remote play, allowing users to stream games from home consoles to other devices easily.

    Storage & Cross-Generation Compatibility

    The upcoming PlayStation is expected to feature faster storage solutions, but probably with similar capacities to keep prices stable. According to Kepler_L2, who has been leaking PS6 info, the console could have 1TB of storage, which is pretty standard. Sony is testing methods to make game installations smaller—like neural texture compression—where an AI GPU could compress files on the fly and then reconstruct them in-game.

    Extended Lifecycle and Future Titles

    If the new console costs a lot, Sony might extend the current PS5 lifecycle. MP1st learned that Sony is working on creating assets for both PS5 and PS6, including 2D and 3D elements. This supports previous leaks about the consoles being compatible with each other, meaning players won’t need to buy all new games immediately after upgrading. As for launch titles, reports hint at an “immersive third-person horror shooter” still in the creative process.

    Sources
  • Spiders Shuts Down After Greedfall II Prequel Release Amid Nacon Insolvency

    Spiders Shuts Down After Greedfall II Prequel Release Amid Nacon Insolvency

    Key Takeaway

    1. Spiders, known for ARPGs like Greedfall, has closed after 18 years, becoming the first major casualty of Nacon’s financial turmoil.
    2. The closure is blamed on financial failures and is seen by the union as a deliberate act by Nacon’s management.
    3. Nacon faced insolvency due to failed repayments, leading to the sale of subsidiaries, but no buyers emerged for Spiders.

    Spiders Game Studio Shuts Down After 18 Years

    Spiders, a well-known French developer mainly famous for their Action Role-Playing Games (ARPGs) such as Greedfall and Steelrising, has now closed permanently. This has been confirmed as the first big studio to drop under the weight of Nacon’s ongoing money problems. Just a few weeks after releasing Greedfall: The Dying World, which is kinda a prequel to their most popular game ever, they announced they are shutting their doors. The studio’s been around for 18 years, and they’ve been known for creating unique but sometimes quirky eurojank RPGs.

    Official Announcement & What It Means

    On April 29, 2026, Spiders made a post on Facebook explaining what has happened. They said, “Hello, everyone. First off, we’re going to cut straight to the chase so you’re not left wondering. After a long period without clear answers, we have received confirmation that Spiders is being liquidated. What does it mean? It means the parent company as a whole no longer exists. We’ll cease our functions immediately. The planned DLC will release via Nacon, and then… well, that’s it. We’re sorry that it’s come to this and would like to thank each and every one of you for your support over the years.”

    They also told fans to contact Nacon directly if they have any questions or issues with their games, because Spiders itself will no longer be able to respond. This marked the end for one of the notable indie studios known for its RPGs with a distinctive style, as it was a huge blow to fans and followers of their projects.

    Reaction From the Industry & Employees

    The French video game union STJV stepped into the conversation to share their frustration. They said Nacon’s decision to shut down Spiders was “a premeditated and deliberate choice by Nacon’s management” and suggested players and supporters should boycott Nacon altogether. The union pointed out that about 71 workers lost their jobs, which is really bad news for all involved. They blame the company’s failure on supposed lack of profits, but the union believes it’s more about Nacon purposely ending things.

    The troubles started earlier this year, in February 2026, when Nacon’s major shareholder, Bigben Interactive, couldn’t pay back a €43 million loan, which forced Nacon into insolvency. With financial worries mounting, the company had to attempt selling multiple shelters, including Spiders, but nobody wanted to buy them. The hopes for Nacon’s upcoming titles got shaky, and now, with Spiders gone, many fear other studios like Kylotonn and Cyanide might also be in danger of closing down soon.

    Sources