Tag: June 2026

  • Sony Reveals New Free PS Plus Extra & Premium Games

    Sony Reveals New Free PS Plus Extra & Premium Games

    Key Takeaway

    – Final Fantasy XVI leads June 2026’s PlayStation Plus Game Catalog lineup for Extra/Premium, featuring action-focused gameplay.
    – Kingdom Come: Deliverance joins the catalog, praised as a realistic medieval open-world RPG.
    – Other confirmed additions include Black Desert and Life is Strange titles.
    – Premium subscribers get Gitaroo Man (PS2 rhythm game).
    – Most games launch June 16, with select titles (e.g., Sonic X Shadow Generations) having staggered US/UK/Japan dates.


    New PlayStation Plus Game Catalog Additions for June 2026

    Sony has anounced the latest additions coming to the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog for Extra and Premium subscribers in June 2026. In regions were it is spearheaded by Final Fantasy XVI, the newest entry in the long-running RPG franchise. It deviates from its standard turn-based gameplau to deliver a more action-focused experience.

    Notable Titles in the Lineup

    Another notible entrant is Kingdom Come: Deliverance. The open-world RPG from Warhorse Studios is arguable one of the most true-to-life simulator of medieval Europe, and it has recieved numerous accolades.

    Additional Games and Premium Benefits

    Black Desert is an MMORPG set in the same universe as the critically acclaimed Crimson Desert. Fans of the Life Is Strange franchise also have something to look forward to. The compleat list is as follows:

    • Final Fantasy XVI
    • Kingdom Come: Deliverance
    • Black Desert
    • Life is Strange: Double Exposure
    • Sonic X Shadow Generations

    Premium Content and Release Schedule

    PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers also get to play Gitaroo Man, a rhythm game from the PS2 era that was confirmed to arive earlier. The complete June Game Catalog lineup will be available on June 16 in most regions, while certain games, such as Sonic X Shadow Generations, Kingdom Come: Deliverance, and Life is Strange: Double Exposure, have different release dates in the US, UK, and Japan.

    Sources
  • Xiaomi Ultra Flagship Gaming Phone Announced 2024

    Xiaomi Ultra Flagship Gaming Phone Announced 2024

    Key Takeaway

    – Redmi K90 Ultra is officially announced as a gaming-focused phone.
    – It will feature last-gen Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, positioning it as a sub-flagship below the K90 Max.
    – Expected to include a powerful air cooler, dedicated gaming chipset (possibly D2), and high refresh rate display.
    – It will not outperform latest-gen gaming flagships, but will offer attractive pricing.
    – Launch scheduled for China in June 2026.


    Xiaomi has officially announced the Redmi K90 Ultra, and the company has confirmed that the flagship phone will be geared for gaming. However, there’s no other official information beyond these. The announcement has generated buzz amongst fan’s and tech enthusiast’s alike, but concrete detail’s remain sparce for now.

    Processing Power and Cooling Integration

    Digital Chat Station, a reliable leaker, previously hinted that the Redmi K90 Ultra will feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite, which is the last-gen flagship SoC. This would position the phone below the recently released K90 Max, and it would also make it stand as a sub-flagship smartphone. The prominent leaker added that it will integrate a powerful air cooler and hinted that the Redmi K90 Ultra is set to be a “performance powerhouse.”

    Dedicated Gaming Chipset and Display

    Xiaomi will likely pair the Snapdragon SoC with a dedicated gaming chipset, which is possibly the D2 chip found on the K90 Max, and the phone is expected to sport a high refresh rate display. Even with these gaming-focused tunings, the K90 Ultra is unlikely to beat gaming phones that feature the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in terms of performance. Of course, the same may not hold true when the value is taken into consideration.

    Affordability and Market Position

    These sub-flagship phones tend to be more affordable than their flagship counterparts within the same series. As Digital Chat Station reported, the pricing will be attractive, and the Redmi K90 Max and K90 Ultra will have similar positions as the Honor Win (12/256GB curr. $645.95 on TradingShenzhen) and Win RT. The latter two are also gaming smartphones with an active cooling fan, making them direct competitor’s in the value segment.

    Launch Timeline

    Nonetheless, Xiaomi didn’t confirm the exact launch date yet, but has hinted that the Redmi K90 Ultra will be launched in China later in June 2026. Redmi on Weibo shared this timeframe, though official channel’s remain quite for now. Gamers should keep an eye out for further announcement’s closer to that period.

    Sources
  • Amazon adds 4 free games to Luna cloud

    Amazon adds 4 free games to Luna cloud

    Key Takeaway

    – Amazon Luna added 4 more games in June 2026, totaling 19 new titles so far.
    – Tested on Humans: Escape Room is a puzzle-solving escape room game.
    – Sin Slayers: Reign of the 8th offers turn-based combat with a sin-based risk-reward system.
    – G.I. Joe: Wrath of Cobra is a side-scrolling action game based on the 1980s franchise.
    – Paradise Killer is an open-world detective game with full freedom to investigate and conclude.


    New Games Arrive on Amazon Luna

    Earlier this month, Amazon added 15 new titles to Luna (formerly Prime Gaming) for subscribers to download and play. The company has now added four more games to the service, bringing the total number of new additions in June 2026 to 19 so far.

    Tested on Humans: Escape Room

    The first game is Tested on Humans: Escape Room (GOG), which places you inside a mysterious research facility where you wake up as a test subject with no clear idea of how you got there. The experience revolves around solving puzzles, uncovering hidden clues, and exploring multiple rooms throughout the facility. Players will need to use logic to crack codes, investigate their surroundings, and slowly piece together the story behind the experiments taking place in the building.

    Sin Slayers: Reign of the 8th

    The second game is Sin Slayers: Reign of the 8th (GOG), which combines RPG mechanics with roguelite progression and challenging turn-based combat. Set in a world consumed by darkness, the game asks players to lead a group of lost souls through dangerous regions filled with monsters and powerful bosses. One of its most interesting features is the Sinometer system. Players can choose to commit sinful actions during their journey, which can lead to greater rewards and stronger loot. However, those choices also make the world more dangerous, attracting tougher enemies and eventually the terrifying Sin Lords.

    G.I. Joe: Wrath of Cobra

    The third game is G.I. Joe: Wrath of Cobra (Epic Games Store). Inspired by the iconic 1980s cartoon and toy line, the game puts players in control of legendary heroes such as Duke, Scarlett, Roadblock, and Snake Eyes as they battle Cobra’s forces. The gameplay focuses on side-scrolling action, allowing players to punch, kick, and blast their way through waves of enemies. Each hero comes with their own moves, special attacks, and playstyle, allowing players to experiment with different characters.

    Paradise Killer

    Finally, the fourth game is Paradise Killer (GOG), which offers a very different experience from the other three games. It is an open-world detective adventure set on a strange island outside reality, where a series of murders threatens the future of an entire civilization. Players take control of Lady Love Dies, an investigator brought back from exile to solve the crime. Unlike traditional detective games, Paradise Killer gives players complete freedom to explore the island, gather evidence, question suspects, and form their own conclusions.

    Amazon Luna

    Subscribers can acces these games now through there Amazon Luna library. The service continues to expand its catalog, providing a mix of genres for all types of players. With these additions, June 2026 is shaping up to be a busy month for Luna users who enjoy both indie titles and nostalgic action games. Each title offers something unique, from puzzle-solving to turn-based combat to open-world investigation, ensuring there’s something for everyone to dive into.

    Sources
  • Xbox Game Pass: 7 New Games Arriving This Month

    Xbox Game Pass: 7 New Games Arriving This Month

    Key Takeaway

    – Seven new games are joining Xbox Game Pass in the first half of June 2026.
    – Two existing Game Pass titles are being added to the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate catalog.
    – Key releases include *Persona 5 Royal* (June 9) and *Undisputed* (June 8).
    – Games are available across Cloud, Console, PC, and Handheld platforms.


    Xbox Game Pass June 2026 First Wave Announced

    May turned out to be a busy month for Xbox Game Pass members. Throughout the month, Microsoft expanded the service with a total of 23 new games, giving subscribers plenty of new titles to download and play across console, PC, and cloud platforms. And now that June has started, Microsoft has officially revealed the first wave of games coming to Xbox Game Pass this month.

    New Titles and Expanded Access

    According to the official announcement, a total of seven new games will be joining Xbox Game Pass during the first half of June 2026. These titles will become available across different Game Pass tiers during the coming days. On top of that, Microsoft is also expanding access for two existing Game Pass titles. While both games were already available through the service, they are now being added to the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate catalog.

    Full List of June Games, Availability Dates, and Plans

    In any case, here’s a complete list of games coming to Game Pass in June 2026, along with their availability dates.

    • Herdling – June 4 – Now with Game Pass Premium; joining Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass – Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC
    • Total Chaos – June 4 – Now with Game Pass Premium; joining Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass – Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC
    • Solarpunk – June 8 – Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass – Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC
    • Undisputed – June 8 – Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass – Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC
    • Persona 5 Royal – June 9 – Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass – Cloud, Console, and PC
    • Beastro – June 11 – Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass – Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC
    • Frog Sqwad – June 11 – Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass – Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC
    • Starseeker: Astroneer Expeditions – June 11 – Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass – Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC
    • Junkster – June 16 – Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass – Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC
    Sources
  • Amazon Luna June 2026: 15 Free Games Announced

    Amazon Luna June 2026: 15 Free Games Announced

    Key Takeaway

    – 15 free games are available for Amazon Prime members in June 2026.
    – Each game must be claimed before its specific deadline to keep forever.
    – Games are redeemed through Epic Games Store, GOG, or Amazon Games App (not Steam).
    – Prime members need accounts on multiple platforms to access the full lineup.


    Prime Member Benefits Expand with Monthly Game Giveaways

    Amazon Prime members get to enjoy a variety of benifits with their subscription, such as fast shipping on eligible products, exclusive discounts, access to Prime Video, and more. On top of that, Amazon also offers a free set of games every month to Prime members through Luna, formerly known as Prime Gaming. And now that June has started, Amazon has revealed the next batch of free games that subscribers can claim.

    Fifteen Titles Available for Download This Month

    This month, their are a total of 15 games available for Amazon Prime members to download and play. As usual, each game comes with its own deadline, and you must claim it before it expires. If you do, it will be yours to keep forever.

    Not Distributed Through Steam, Multi-Platform Redemption Required

    Another thing worth noting is that these games are not distributed directly through Steam. Instead, depending on the title, the games may be redeemed through the Epic Games Store, GOG, or the Amazon Games App. This means players will need accounts on multiple platforms to access the full June lineup.

    Complete June 2026 Lineup with Release Dates and Platforms

    That said, here is the complete Amazon Luna June 2026 lineup, along with the release date and platforms.

    • Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered (Very Positive – Steam) – June 2 – Epic Games Store
    • Mafia III: Definitive Edition (Mixed – Steam) – June 2 – GOG Code
    • XCOM: Chimera Squad (Mostly Positive – Steam) – June 2 – GOG Code
    • Tested on Humans: Escape Room (Very Positive – Steam) – June 11 – GOG Code
    • Sin Slayers: Reign of the 8th (Mixed – Steam) – June 11 – GOG Code
    • G.I. Joe: Wrath of Cobra (Mixed – Steam) – June 11 – Epic Games Store
    • Paradise Killer (Mixed – Steam) (Very Positive – Steam) – June 11 – GOG Code
    • Between Time: Escape Room (Very Positive – Steam) – June 18 – GOG Code
    • Sugardew Island (Mostly Positive – Steam) – June 18 – GOG Code
    • Wargame Construction Set III: Age of Rifles 1846-1905 (Positive – Steam) – June 18 – GOG Code
    • Space Grunts 2 (No rating yet – Steam) – June 18 – GOG Code
    • Space Grunts: Chrono Shard (No rating yet – Steam) – June 25 – Epic Games Store
    • Please Touch the Artwork (Very Positive – Steam) – June 25 – Epic Games Store
    • Terraforming Mars (Mixed – Steam) – June 25 – Amazon Games App
    • Lost Eidolons: Veil of the Witch (Very Positive – Steam) – June 25 – Amazon Games App
    Sources
  • Xbox Elite Series 2 Core: 3 New Colors at Best Buy

    Xbox Elite Series 2 Core: 3 New Colors at Best Buy

    Key Takeaway

    – Three new color variants of the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – Core (Red/Blue, Red/White, Green/Red) launch on June 8, 2026.
    – The new controllers are priced at $149.99 and are already listed on Best Buy.
    – The “Core” version is a cheaper alternative ($149.99 vs. $199.99) that omits the charging dock, paddle set, extra thumbsticks, extra D-pad, and carrying case.
    – Custom designs are also available via Xbox Design Lab, but at a higher price than the standard colors.


    New Color Options for Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 – Core

    Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – Core is available to buy in three colors — Blue, Red, and White. Buyers can also create their own design using Xbox Design Lab, albeit for a higher price. Now, three new colors will be available to buy later this month. These fresh options include Red and Blue, Red and White, and Green and Red combos.

    Pricing and Availabilty at Best Buy

    All three colors are already listed on Best Buy and carry a $149.99 price tag. Best Buy also says the controllers will be available to buy starting on the 8th of June 2026. This is the same price as the standard Core edition, so no extra cost for the new colorways. They will be sold exclusively through Best Buy at launch.

    Core Version vs. Full Elite Series 2

    The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – Core is a cheaper version of the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. The only difference is that the Core version doesn’t come with a charging dock, paddle set, additional thumbsticks, an additional D-pad, and a carrying case. If you want all of these accessories along with the Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, then you will have to shell out $199.99. This makes the Core a good entry point for players wanting pro features on a budget.

    Why Choose the Core Model?

    For gamers who already own accessories like thumbsticks and a case, the Core edition saves you $50. You still get the same adjustable-tension thumbsticks, wrap-around rubberized grip, and shorter hair trigger locks. The only downside is youll need to buy extra parts seperately if you want the full experience. But for many, the Core setup is enough for competitive play.

    • Colors: Red & Blue, Red & White, Green & Red
    • Price: $149.99 at Best Buy
    • Release date: June 8, 2026
    • Core lacks: charging dock, paddles, extra sticks, D-pad, case
    • Full Elite Series 2 costs $199.99

    Final Thoughts on the New Colors

    These new combos add some much-needed variety to the Core lineup. The red and blue scheme is pretty striking, while the green and red gives a seasonal feel. Players who want a unique look might prefer the Design Lab option, but for $149.99 these pre-made designs are a solid choice. Just remember to order early if you want one on June 8th.

    Sources
  • Mid-June Nintendo Direct: Rumored First-Party Switch 2 Games

    Mid-June Nintendo Direct: Rumored First-Party Switch 2 Games

    Key Takeaway

    – A June Nintendo Direct is expected, possibly mid-June, with a traditional event around or after Summer Game Fest.
    – The focus could be on first-party Switch 2 titles, a third-party Partner Showcase, or both, with marketing emphasis on Nintendo’s platform.
    – Possible reveals include fall/holiday releases and potential first glimpses of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake.


    Rumors about a June Nintendo Direct have been floating around, and it wouldn’t be shocking given the month has often hosted big reveals. Still, as the Star Fox shadow-drop showed, the company isn’t following a strict script anymore. According to Jeff Grubb of Giant Bomb, Nintendo is still aiming to run a more traditional event around or after the Summer Game Fest.

    Industry insiders weigh in on timing

    During a recent podcast, the industry veteran disclosed, “I’m hearing that there’s going to be a Nintendo Direct by mid-June.” Whether this turns into a full-length showcase or a more compact version isn’t entirely clear, but mid-June remains the strongest signal. It’s also up in the air if the show will feature first‑party Switch 2 titles or a third‑party Partner Showcase.

    Shift in strategy and competing dates

    Even before E3’s decline, Nintendo had begun prioritizing its own events. Since then, the Summer Game Fest, set for June 5–8, has grown as a key arena for other publishers. Nintendo could reply with marketing that targets its own platform rather than a broader industry stage.

    Grubb isn’t the only reliable voice predicting a potentially big moment for the Mario-maker. NatetheHate had previously teased a similar timing for a Direct and now plans to provide more details in the coming days, which could or could not rule out a Partner Showcase.

    Financials and future titles on the radar

    With a price increase anticipated in September, there may be more urgency to reveal new exclusive Switch 2 games. Kotaku reported that at a recent Q&A, Nintendo President hinted at its release plan for the second half of 2026. Shuntaro Furukawa said, “We are preparing new titles in addition to those we have already announced and will communicate the details at the appropriate time.”

    A June Direct would be an obvious venue to debut new software and entice holdouts to upgrade to the latest handheld. Summer titles like Splatoon Raiders might surface, but fans also hope for a first look at fall and holiday releases. One oft-mentioned possibility is the rumored The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake.