Category: Gaming

  • PlayStation Plus Free Games for April 2026 Announced

    PlayStation Plus Free Games for April 2026 Announced

    Key Takeaway

    1. Three new games—Lords of the Fallen, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered, and Sword Art Online Fractured Daydream—will be added to PS Plus in April 2026, available from April 7 to May 4.
    2. Lords of the Fallen features a sprawling world, intense combat, and customizable playstyles.
    3. Tomb Raider I-III Remastered includes all expansions, secret levels, and a new Challenge Mode with modifiers and outfits.
    4. Sword Art Online Fractured Daydream emphasizes co-op multiplayer and large raids.

    New Game Lineup for PS Plus Members in April 2026

    Sony has announced the new games that PS Plus users can get for the month of April in 2026. The update includes three exciting titles that will be accessible to subscribers under the Essential, Extra, and Premium plans. This announcement brought anticipation among gamers eager to explore fresh adventures and challenges.

    Highlights of the Month: Lords of the Fallen

    The main attraction this month is Lords of the Fallen, a game which was already leaked before its official reveal. This dark fantasy RPG casts you as a Dark Crusader, with the mission of stopping a demon god resurrection. The game boasts a huge connected world, fierce boss fights and fast-paced, tough combat mechanics. Many classes and a broad array of weapons allow players to craft their own unique styles as they advance in the game.

    Classic Remastered Collection: Tomb Raider I-III

    Another title to watch for is the Tomb Raider I-III Remastered collection. This bundle revamps the first three Tomb Raider titles with improved graphics and still gives the option to switch back to the classic visuals. It includes every expansion and secret level, along with a new Challenge Mode with modifiers and unlockable costumes for Lara Croft, adding even more playability.

    Sword Art Online: Fractured Daydream

    Completing the line-up is Sword Art Online Fractured Daydream, a game emphasizing cooperative play. In this game, friends team up to face formidable enemies, which gives you thrilling multiplayer raids. It features characters from different parts of the Sword Art Online universe, making it a fun multiplayer experience that supports big group battles.

    Important Dates and Offers

    All of these games will be available from April 7th and can be claimed until May 4th. Before this, remember to grab the March 2026 selection, which includes popular titles like PGA Tour 2K25, Monster Hunter Rise, Slime Rancher 2, and The Elder Scrolls Online Collection: Gold Road, making sure you don’t miss out on these.

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  • Unbound Studio by Resident Evil Creator Shinji Mikami Acquired by Shift Up

    Unbound Studio by Resident Evil Creator Shinji Mikami Acquired by Shift Up

    Key Takeaway

    1. Shift Up has acquired all shares of Unbound, fully controlling the Japan-based studio.
    2. The acquisition aims to expand Shift Up’s focus on developing more PC and console games.
    3. Shinji Mikami, renowned for Resident Evil and other titles, is leading a new large-scale game at Unbound.
    4. The new project is already in development, with additional details to be announced later.

    Shift Up Completes Acquisition of Unbound

    In a surprising move, Shift Up has taken full control of Unbound by acquiring all its shares. This strategic decision was released on April 1, 2026, aiming to expand their portfolio of PC and console games. The move signifies Shift Up’s intention to solidify its position in the gaming industry with more ambitious projects under its wings.

    The Vision Behind the Deal

    Lead by CEO Hyung Tae Kim, the company is eyeing bigger plans, especially bringing prominent figures like Shinji Mikami into their fold. Known for his iconic work on Resident Evil, Mikami’s team is now tasked with creating large-scale original games. The collaboration emphasizes not just development but also strengthening their foothold in publishing, boosting the quality and reach of upcoming titles.

    Future Projects and Expectations

    This partnership hints at exciting future releases, although specific details remain a mystery. Mikami’s team is currently working on a new big game, but no exact info on genres, platforms, or release dates has been shared. Both companies remain focused on development now, promising that more news will be shared in the near future. Fans can absolutely expect some interesting upcoming announcements soon.

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  • Upcoming Anbernic Handheld with Metal Shell Reacts Before Launch

    Upcoming Anbernic Handheld with Metal Shell Reacts Before Launch

    Key Takeaway

    1. Anbernic’s new gaming handheld features a sliding display mechanism, similar to the RG Slide.
    2. The device includes a top-mounted USB Type-C port, in-line triggers, a microSD card slot, and possibly a 3.5 mm audio jack.
    3. It is advertised to support up to Nintendo 64 games and may be released as the RG Rotate with both metal and plastic shell options.
    4. The official release date is not yet known, but a launch is expected later this month.

    New glimpses of the upcoming Anbernic handheld device has just been shared online. Its the second device from the company to feature a sliding display, following last year’s RG Slide which is currently priced at $174.99. The device was first seen in mid-March, and these new videos prove it’s no April Fools’ prank.

    Additional Features Revealed

    Although a specific release date still hasnt been announced, the folks at Handheld Penguin have posted new footage on Bilibili. The videos, embedded below, allow us to see some more details of the device. For example, there’s a USB Type-C port located at the top, inline trigger buttons, and a microSD card slot visible in the shots.

    Audio & Gaming Capabilities

    It’s interesting to note the inclusion of a built-in MP3 player, which suggests that a 3.5mm headphone jack will be present. Though it’s not visible in either video, it’s likely on the right side of the device. Also, the recent footage hints that Anbernic plans to promote the device as capable of running games on Nintendo 64.

    Design & Potential Release

    From what appears, Anbernic might call this device the RG Rotate. The design has a metal shell option alongside a basic black plastic version. Fans are eagerly awaiting an official reveal, which is expected to happen later on this month.

    Speculations and Expectations

    • Possible metal and plastic body options
    • Targeting retro gaming enthusiasts especially for N64 games
    • Expected inclusion of extra ports like USB-C and microSD card slot
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  • Analogue 3D Firmware Update Fixes N64 ROM Tracking for Flash Carts

    Analogue 3D Firmware Update Fixes N64 ROM Tracking for Flash Carts

    Key Takeaway

    1. The firmware update (version 1.2.4) treats each ROM loaded onto the same cartridge as a separate entry, enhancing library detection.
    2. It automatically detects changes in game headers, maintaining separate save files and settings for each game, eliminating manual reconfiguration.
    3. The update introduces “advanced library detection,” improving game management and making it easier to switch between multiple ROMs on a single cart.

    Firmware Update Brings Major Improvements for Retro Gaming

    Analogue has released a significant new firmware for its FPGA Analogue 3D retro console. This update is especially useful for those who use N64 flash carts like EverDrive and SummerCart 64. It was launched quietly on March 28, and it creates a better experience for users by fixing some major issues.

    Enhanced ROM Management

    One of the biggest changes that people are talking about is how the new firmware now treats each loaded ROM as independent. Unlike before, when you loaded different games on the same cartridge, the console would not recognize each game separately. Now, the Analogue 3D detects changes in the game header and automatically makes each new title a unique entry in the game library. This makes playing multiple games at once way easier, especially for those who switch games often.

    Fewer Manual Settings Needed

    Before, players had to manually adjust settings for each game, like save files or controller preferences. If you swapped from Zelda to Mario Kart, the system might have mixed up save files, or you’d need to change controller settings each time. But now, thanks to the update, these settings remain saved per game, and switching between ROMs is much smoother. The update is called “advanced library detection” because it automatically recognizes when a ROM header changes, making the gameplay experience seamless.

    Community Feedback and Additional Tweaks

    Many gamers are excited about this update, recommending others to install it especially if they have a big collection of games stored on a single flash cart. The patch notes reveal that when the header of a cartridge changes, it gets detected and tracked, making game management smarter. Plus, the OS received some extra tweaks, including a “Ready” prompt that pops up based on the inserted cartridge, allowing players to just press B and jump right into their game. Early reactions indicate that this small update of 21.8 MB feels like a big quality-of-life upgrade, letting players access hundreds of Nintendo 64 ROMs more easily.

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  • Leaked Forza Horizon 6 Preview Tackles Gameplay Concerns Before Launch

    Leaked Forza Horizon 6 Preview Tackles Gameplay Concerns Before Launch

    Key Takeaway

    1. The game features a large, lively Tokyo map that is significantly more detailed and populated than early trailers suggested.
    2. Performance is capped at 4K/30 fps in the preview, with a 60 fps mode available on Series X, likely affecting visual clarity.
    3. Initial gameplay may be more challenging, with early races potentially more difficult and less forgiving than previous titles.

    Microsoft’s Upcoming Racing Game Creates Buzz

    People are really excited to try out the new open-world racing game from Microsoft, with anticipation running high for its release. Atleast one preview video of Forza Horizon 6 is supposed to go live on April 8th. But before that, a YouTuber who got their hands on an Xbox Series X build has already shared some thoughts. Interestingly, what they said in their gameplay review didn’t show any major issues, even those seen in trailers.

    Early Feedback and Performance Insights

    That video, sadly, is now removed from the internet, but Reddit users have taken it upon themselves to share what was discussed. They talk about how the game performs, how bustling the Japanese city looks, and how challenging the gameplay is. Even though the initial code only lets you explore for about an hour before venturing into Tokyo, the game’s environment seems lively and full of traffic, contrary to earlier trailers. Fans can promisingly expect a far more active street scene at release.

    Size and Visuals Compared to Previous Titles

    The size of the city is enormous, with claims that it’s five times bigger than the Guanajuato map from Forza Horizon 5. If what the preview shows is correct, players will be able to drive past many recognizable landmarks. But keep in mind, the current version was limited to 4K resolution at 30 frames per second. Xbox Series X users will be able to enable a 60fps mode, which might slightly reduce the visual sharpness but give a smoother experience.

    Progression System and Gameplay Challenge

    The developers promised that the game would offer a good sense of progression, which has some fans a bit wary because previous titles were easier to complete by just collecting cars and finishing events. The preview is only a preview, so we don’t know the full extent of the challenge yet. In fact, during an early race, the player couldn’t even finish in the top three without wheel spins, highlighting that early races might be tougher.

    Public Reactions and Final Thoughts

    More opinions and reviews will come on April 8th, but the YouTuber was quite impressed, calling Forza Horizon 6 the “most beautiful game he’s seen” with highly addictive gameplay. Sadly, the game will only be available on Xbox and PC starting May 19th, meaning PlayStation 5 fans will have to wait until sometime in 2026 to join in on the fun.

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  • Evercade Nexus Handheld with RGB Logo, TATE Mode, & Special Edition

    Evercade Nexus Handheld with RGB Logo, TATE Mode, & Special Edition

    Key Takeaway

    1. The Evercade Nexus is a new, larger horizontal handheld console with a 5.89-inch IPS display, compatible with Evercade cartridges and featuring customizable controls.
    2. It introduces EverSync, a local multiplayer feature allowing two Nexus devices to connect without internet, simply by inserting game cartridges.
    3. Pre-orders begin April 1, 2023, with a release scheduled for October 2026; the device includes bonus items and is available in standard and limited edition versions.

    Introducing the Evercade Nexus: A New Handheld Gaming Device

    Evercade has recently announced their latest handheld gaming console, the Nexus, which is their biggest yet. This device boasts a horizontal design, similar to prior models like the Evercade and Super Pocket, and it maintains compatibility with Evercade cartridges, ensuring fans can enjoy a broad library of games.

    Design & Display Features

    The Nexus sports a 5.89-inch IPS display with a resolution of 840 x 512 pixels, and it shines with over 500 nits of brightness, making the visuals clear even in bright environments. The device’s design includes symmetric analog thumbsticks, a floating disc D-Pad, stacked triggers, and bumper buttons, creating a comfortable and responsive control setup for players.

    Controls & Connectivity

    Under the screen, you’ll find four pill-shaped buttons labeled Select, Start, and a dedicated button to switch to TATE mode, which is used for classic vertical shooter games, giving you options for different gameplay styles. Between these pistil-shaped buttons, there’s an RGB NEXUS logo that allows users to customize the look, adding a personal touch to the device.

    The Nexus is equipped with stereo front-facing speakers, a USB-C port, an audio jack, and Wi-Fi 6 for seamless online connectivity. One of the newest features exclusive to this handheld is EverSync, a system letting two Nexus units connect for local multiplayer sessions without needing internet, simply by inserting game cartridges and hosting the multiplayer game.

    Color Options & Limited Edition

    The standard Nexus will come in black, but the company offers a limited edition known as the Nexus 64. This special version has a silver D-Pad, thumbsticks, shoulder buttons, and colorful ABXY buttons in blue, green, and yellow, making it stand out. Only 2000 of these will be made, adding to its exclusivity.

    Extras & Pre-Order Information

    With the limited edition, customers will receive bonus items like a PVA hard case, a glass screen protector, an exclusive poster, and a signed certificate of authenticity, which are not available for sale separately. Pre-orders will start on April 1, with release planned for October 2026, shortly after the launch of the new Evercade Wireless Controller.

    Pricing Details

    • The standard Evercade Nexus costs £169.99 in the UK, $199.99 in the US, and €199.99 across Europe.
    • The Evercade Nexus 64 Edition is priced at £189.99, $229.99, and €229.99, available exclusively through Funstock UK and Funstock USA.

    Both models will include a bonus cartridge featuring the Banjo-Kazooie Double Pack, including Banjo-Kazooie and Banjo-Tooie, offering an extra treat for fans of the franchise.

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  • Asus Launches 16-Inch Gaming Laptop with 120Hz OLED Display

    Asus Launches 16-Inch Gaming Laptop with 120Hz OLED Display

    Key Takeaway

    1. The new ROG Zephyrus Duo GX651 features high-end hardware, including up to GeForce RTX 5090 GPU, Intel Core Ultra 9 386H processor, and supports up to 64 GB of RAM with 2 TB storage.
    2. It has dual 2.8K displays with a 120 Hz refresh rate, 1,100 nits brightness, and Nvidia G-Sync support, resembling a device closer in design to the Zenbook Duo.
    3. The laptop includes dual M.2 slots with magnetic access, a 90 Wh battery, and weighs approximately 2.82 kg.
    4. Pricing starts at £3,999 ($3,946 USD), with higher configurations featuring 64 GB RAM and RTX 5090 GPU costing up to $5,799 USD.
    5. Availability varies by region, with the more powerful configuration currently only available in the UK.

    Asus Launches New ROG Zephyrus Duo

    Asus has droped a new gaming laptop called the ROG Zephyrus Duo. Announced in January, this new model replace the older GeForce RTX 4090 version that was reviewed over three years ago. Even though the GX651 shares its name with the older GX650, there are quite some significant differences between them. This laptop is quite an upgrade in many ways especially in design and hardware options.

    Design and Hardware Features

    In terms of design, the new ROG Zephyrus Duo is more similar to the Zenbook Duo (which costs about $1,699) because it has screens of similar sizes and comes with a detachable keyboard. But the GX651 offers more power, equipped with either a GeForce RTX 5070 Ti or RTX 5090 laptop GPU, paired with an Intel Core Ultra 9 386H processor. You can also choose configurations with upto 32 GB or 64 GB of LPDDR5X-8533 RAM and as much as 2 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage. Plus, Asus added dual M.2 slots that are accessible via a magnetic cover, unlike similar models like the ROG Flow Z13.

    Display, Battery, and Price

    The laptop gets two 2.8K screens (2,880 x 1,880 pixels) that run at 120 Hz, reaching a peak brightness of 1,100 nits, with Nvidia G-Sync support for smoother gaming. It houses a 90 Wh battery which, combined with its hardware, results in a total weight of about 2.82 kg. The starting price for the GX651 is around £3,999, and CAD $5,499, roughly $3,946 US dollars, with 32 GB RAM, a 1 TB SSD, and a RTX 5070 Ti GPU. For a more powerful version with 64 GB RAM, 2 TB SSD, and RTX 5090 GPU, the price jumps to $5,799 and CAD $8,999 (~$6,459). Currently, only the latter option is available to buy in the UK, by the way.


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  • More Than Just Pals Turns Palworld into a Dating Sim

    More Than Just Pals Turns Palworld into a Dating Sim

    Key Takeaway

    1. “More Than Just Pals” was initially announced as an April Fool’s joke but is officially confirmed as real by Pocketpair.
    2. The game features a dating sim set in a school environment with elements of violence and mystery.
    3. Players can befriend, fall in love with, or eat Pals, with the relationship possibilities entirely player-directed.
    4. The game is listed on Steam, but specific release date and system requirements are still unavailable.
    5. The development of Palworld continues with the full release of version 1.0 expected within the year.

    More Than Just Pals: An Unexpected Return

    Initially debuting on April 1, 2024, as nothing more than an April Fool’s prank, the game More Than Just Pals has made a surprising comeback. Just one day shy of April 1, 2026, the developers at Pocketpair have officially announced its return, disowning any jokes in their official statement. This move caught many fans off guard as it reinforces that this is serious and not joking around.

    Listing and Preview Details

    Right now, the game is listed on Steam but features no set release date yet. The official announcement comes with a trailer and some screenshots that show the game setting appears to be a school environment. The visuals hint at a mix of cute and dark themes, with some scenes showing violent acts if Pals get jealous, hinting at a storyline filled with twists and mystery elements.

    Game Features and Content

    In the game, players will take placement as an exchange student who can befriend different Pals, develop romantic feelings or even eat them – all dependant on player choice. Despite the intriguing description, the details are mostly unchanged from last year’s description, and specifics such as system requirements or gameplay mechanics are still not clear. Fans wait eagerly to see more of how this unusual dating sim will turn out.

    Developer’s Commitment and Expectations

    Although Pocketpair stress that this comeback is no joke, some people wonder if they’re really investing all their efforts into this project or just teasing fans. The priority for the studio is still finishing Palworld, which has been in Early Access for over two years, with a full version 1.0 planned to launch later this year. So, while the game is promising a new experience, many are curious if it will actually live up to expectations soon or get lost in development limbo.


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  • Eidos Montreal Cancels $100M+ Game After 7 Years in Development

    Eidos Montreal Cancels $100M+ Game After 7 Years in Development

    Key Takeaway

    1. Eidos Montreal laid off 124 employees due to the cancellation of the nearly seven-year, multi-million dollar project ‘Wildlands.’
    2. ‘Wildlands’ was close to completion, in the debugging phase, and set to release later this year, making its cancellation unexpected.
    3. The game’s development faced challenges, including multiple engine changes and narrative uncertainties, leading to its significant budget overruns and the cancellation of other projects like a new Deus Ex installment.
    4. Footage described of ‘Wildlands’ resembled another canceled game, WiLD, featuring open-world, mythical themes, but remains unreleased publicly.

    Recent layoffs at Eidos Montreal spark concerns around their game development strategies

    Recently, Eidos Montreal has announced another round of layoffs, citing “changing project needs.” This move resulted in the dismissal of 124 employees, highlighting recent struggles within the studio. The reason behind this decision was linked to the cancelation of a massive project that had been on the studio’s table for about seven years and involved costs reaching into the nine-figure range.

    Background of the ‘Wildlands’ project

    This ambitious project was named ‘Wildlands’ and, according to sources cited by Insider Gaming, has been in the works since 2019. Throughout its development, the game underwent numerous shifts, including switching between four different game engines. Teams at the studio faced ongoing challenges to keep the project on track, especially when trying to settle on a compelling narrative direction. The budget surpassed one hundred million dollars, leading to the cancellation of other in-progress titles, including a new installment for the well-known Deus Ex franchise.

    Development status and unexpected cancellation

    Even though the game was nearing its completion stage and was reportedly in the debugging phase, its sudden cancellation comes as a surprise to many. The game was expected to be released later this year, which makes the decision to scrap it quite unexpected. The setback reflects the unpredictable nature of high-budget game development, especially when project scopes expand beyond initial plans.

    Imagery and gameplay details

    Footage of ‘Wildlands’ allegedly showcased an open-world, third-person action adventure. The visuals bore a resemblance to another canceled game, WiLD by Wild Sheep Studio. In the game, players followed River, a teen from the group named Spiritbounds, who could harness magic and ride mythical creatures. Sadly, Insider Gaming reports that they cannot share the footage publicly, as their source prefers to keep it discreet.

    • Cost of the project: Over $100 million
    • Development duration: About 7 years
    • Number of layoffs: 124 employees
    • Game status before cancelation: Near completion, in debugging phase
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  • Steam Adds More Free Games Before March 2026 Ends

    Steam Adds More Free Games Before March 2026 Ends

    Key Takeaway

    1. A new wave of free indie games was released on Steam near March 2026, with some receiving positive player feedback.
    2. Many of these games have low system requirements, making them accessible on most PCs, including those with integrated GPUs.
    3. Developers may switch these games to paid models over time, but they will remain accessible in users’ libraries if added while free.

    Right before March 2026 ends, there’s a fresh lineup of free games that started appearing on Steam. Throughout the month, these new games got added in bunches, and although lots of them haven’t been rated by players yet, a few are already getting some good feedback.

    New Free Games and System Requirements

    Most of these indie titles boast pretty chill system requirements, making them accessible to a wide range of PC setups. Even those with modest integrated graphics like the Bosgame P3, which is currently priced at $569.99 on Amazon, should be able to run these games without much effort. So, they’re great for folks who aren’t rocking the latest hardware but still want to enjoy some gaming action.

    Important Notes About the Free Games

    Be aware that some of these games might not stay free forever. Many developers tend to eventually switch to a paid model to earn more money or keep the game running. Still, if they’re already added to your Steam library, switching to a paid version shouldn’t affect your current access, hopefully!

    Pricing and Availability Disclaimer

    Just a quick reminder: prices and deals can change quickly. The prices or deals mentioned were valid at the time of writing, but they might have limited availability or be subject to restrictions later on. Always check your sources for the latest info.


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