Tag: PlayStation 5

  • State of Play Event Scheduled for June 4 Announcement

    State of Play Event Scheduled for June 4 Announcement

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has officially announced a State of Play event for June 4, despite earlier doubts about future announcements.
    2. The event will start at 5pm ET / 2pm PT / 11pm CEST and will last for 40 minutes, available on YouTube and Twitch.
    3. The showcase will feature updates on must-play games for PS5, but specific titles have not been revealed.
    4. Fans were uncertain about a State of Play due to a lack of announcements since the last event on April 30.
    5. June is shaping up to be an exciting month for gamers, with the Summer Game Fest occurring on June 6, featuring potential announcements from major companies.

    For a long time, many thought there wouldn’t be a State of Play announcement or any significant events from Sony in the near future. However, after some insider clues about a potential event, Sony has now officially announced a State of Play for tomorrow, June 4. The details shared do not specify what PlayStation fans might look forward to or which games will be announced.

    Timing and Streaming Info

    As per the PlayStation Blog, the State of Play will kick off at 5pm ET / 2pm PT / 11pm CEST and will last for 40 minutes, available for viewing on YouTube and Twitch. The message simply says, “Watch live for news and updates on must-play games coming to PS5. The show will showcase a selection of amazing games from developers around the world.”

    Fan Anticipation

    Fans have been curious about whether Sony would hold any events or announcements, but indications pointed to there being none. Until late May, many thought that there wouldn’t be any news related to a proper State of Play event after the Borderlands 4 event on April 30. Typically, Sony organizes these events every four to six months, and this one on June 4 comes just in time after the detailed February 12 State of Play.

    Exciting Times Ahead for Gamers

    With Sony ready to share some exciting updates with fans tomorrow, June is looking like a great month for gamers overall. The Summer Game Fest is set for June 6, promising announcements from PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo, among others. Reports have suggested that Ubisoft might announce the Splinter Cell Remake at this event, and there’s also anticipation for an Arc Raiders announcement.

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  • Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Developers Announce 3.3 Million Sales

    Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Developers Announce 3.3 Million Sales

    Key Takeaways

    1. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has sold over 3.3 million copies globally within 33 days of its release.
    2. The game launched on April 24 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, and was available on Xbox Game Pass.
    3. The developers expressed gratitude for the support from players on social media following the game’s success.
    4. The game received critical acclaim, with Metacritic scores of 92 for PS5 and 91 for Xbox Series X|S and PC.
    5. Players explore a Belle Époque–inspired France, engaging in reactive turn-based combat against a supernatural threat.

    Publisher Kepler Interactive and developer Sandfall Interactive have shared that their turn-based RPG, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, has sold more than 3.3 million copies globally. This sales milestone is not shocking, particularly since the game crossed 500,000 units sold within just a day of its release.

    Impressive Sales in a Short Timeframe

    These impressive numbers were reached in merely 33 days after the game launched on April 24 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (available on both Steam and Epic Games Store), including immediate access on Xbox Game Pass. This achievement underscores the game’s strong attraction, even when faced with subscription service rivals and the unexpected launch of Bethesda’s The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered.

    A Grateful Announcement from the Developers

    The developers took to social media to share this exciting news. Their post stated, “Thirty-three days ago, we released Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Since then, we’ve sold 3.3 million copies. Seriously. As of today. We couldn’t make that up. Another entry on the long list of surreal moments that your support has made real. Thank you ALL. Tomorrow comes.????”

    Critical Acclaim Boosts Popularity

    Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has been well-received by critics, as reflected in its Metacritic scores of 92 for PS5 and 91 for Xbox Series X|S and PC. The game has connected well with both reviewers and players, which explains its impressive sales trajectory.

    A Journey Through a Unique Setting

    In Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, players guide Gustave, Maëlle, and their fellow Expeditioners on a challenging quest in a Belle Époque–inspired France to stop the supernatural Paintress, who threatens to “paint” death annually. The game showcases “reactive turn-based combat” that fuses traditional JRPG strategy with real-time elements, allowing players to dodge, parry, and aim at enemy weak points for a truly immersive battle experience.

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  • New BioShock Game Announcement Expected Soon from 2K

    New BioShock Game Announcement Expected Soon from 2K

    Key Takeaways

    1. 2K Games may soon announce news related to the BioShock series, with hints of a possible reveal in the coming months.
    2. There are rumors of a potential remake of the original BioShock game, which could lead to the development of BioShock 4.
    3. The next BioShock installment is expected to feature a new setting, possibly a hidden city in the Arctic, although details remain unconfirmed.
    4. An official announcement from 2K is anticipated before the end of Summer 2025, with potential showcases at major gaming events.
    5. All information is speculative at this stage, and confirmation from 2K is needed before considering any details as official.

    The BioShock series has been absent for quite a while. After the launch of The BioShock Collection, which features upgraded versions of the three main games in 2016, fans have been eagerly waiting for the next installment. It appears that the wait might be nearing its end, as recent rumors indicate that 2K Games, the publisher behind BioShock, is preparing to make some kind of announcement related to the franchise.

    Speculated Announcements

    Reports from MP1ST suggest that 2K is set to reveal something regarding BioShock in the next few months. There are whispers that the underwater city of Rapture, which is the location of the first BioShock game, could be linked to the upcoming announcement. Additionally, these rumors imply that 2K’s reveal might include “references” to the original BioShock.

    Possible Remake in the Works?

    Considering this information, it seems plausible that 2K may announce a remake of the first BioShock game. This remake could pave the way for BioShock 4, a game that has reportedly been in development for several years now.

    The potential announcement of a BioShock 1 remake aligns well with the release of the next installment in the series. This would not only make BioShock appealing to new players but also reignite the enthusiasm of long-time fans for the upcoming game.

    New Locations and Timeline

    While there has been little information about BioShock 4, it is highly likely that we will explore a new setting. The first two games took place in Rapture, while BioShock Infinite introduced us to New Columbia in the sky. There have been some questionable claims suggesting that the next game might be set in a hidden city in the Arctic, but so far, no solid or credible leaks have come to light.

    As for when we might hear more, 2K’s announcement is rumored to happen before the end of Summer 2025. With events like the Xbox Games Showcase 2025 in early June and the Summer Games Fest later on, we could see something related to BioShock showcased at these venues. Following the summer announcement, the new BioShock title could be released in Fall to capitalize on the Holiday 2025 shopping season.

    Caution on Speculation

    However, it’s important to note that this is all just speculation. Rumors about game announcements and release dates should always be approached with caution. Game studios and publishers can easily alter their plans for various reasons at the last moment, so nothing about the new BioShock game is confirmed until there is an official word from 2K.

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  • Mukti: Sony’s India Hero Project Game for PlayStation 5

    Mukti: Sony’s India Hero Project Game for PlayStation 5

    Key Takeaways

    1. First Indian Game for PS5: Mukti is the first game developed in India to be confirmed for PlayStation 5, part of the Sony India Hero Project.

    2. Narrative and Setting: The game is a first-person narrative adventure set in mid-2000s India, following a young woman named Arya as she searches for her grandfather in a museum.

    3. Collaboration with PlayStation: Developers are working closely with PlayStation to incorporate features like DualSense haptics and adaptive triggers to enhance gameplay.

    4. Mature Themes: The game addresses serious topics, including human trafficking, and has a viewer advisory for potentially inappropriate content for children.

    5. Release Information: Mukti is set to launch on both PlayStation 5 and PC, with a “Coming soon” status on its official Steam page, though no exact release date has been provided.

    Mumbai’s own underDOGS Studio has announced Mukti, the first game developed in India to be confirmed for PlayStation 5. A fresh gameplay trailer was shared as part of Sony’s India Hero Project, which aims to assist local game studios with mentorship, training, and financial support to craft titles that can appeal globally. In a post on the PlayStation Blog, Vaibhav Chavan, who is the founder and CEO of underDOGS Studio, mentioned, “Mukti is honored to be included in the esteemed Sony India Hero Project. Being chosen for this initiative not only fueled our ambition to realize our vision but also strengthened our conviction that Indian narratives deserve to be seen globally.”

    Game Overview

    Mukti is designed as a first-person narrative adventure, reminiscent of titles like Gone Home, according to VentureBeat. Set against the backdrop of mid-2000s India, players will step into the shoes of Arya, a young woman who is on a quest to locate her grandfather within a large museum he used to own. While she journeys through the museum, she stumbles upon hints regarding his mysterious disappearance and gradually unveils the grim realities related to human trafficking.

    Enhancing Gameplay

    The developers have expressed that they are “collaborating closely with the PlayStation team to make sure features like DualSense haptics and adaptive triggers enhance the overall experience, from feeling each hit during combat to the delicate tension of piecing together puzzles and uncovering hidden truths.”

    Mukti is set to launch on both PlayStation 5 and PC. According to the official Steam page, the game is currently marked as “Coming soon.” However, an exact release date hasn’t been revealed yet.

    Viewer Advisory

    It’s worth noting that the official gameplay trailer carries an advisory stating “may contain content inappropriate for children” across all official distribution channels, indicating the mature themes present in the game. Viewer discretion is advised.

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  • Hellblade 2: Xbox Exclusive Launches on PS5

    Hellblade 2: Xbox Exclusive Launches on PS5

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hellblade 2 Release: Ninja Theory announced that Hellblade’s follow-up will launch on PlayStation 5 this summer.
    2. Free Update: Current players on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Steam will receive a free update with exciting new features.
    3. Game Availability: The original Hellblade was released as a timed exclusive for PS4 in 2017 and has since expanded to multiple platforms.
    4. Xbox Exclusives on PlayStation: Hellblade 2 joins other Xbox titles like Indiana Jones and potential Halo games coming to PlayStation.
    5. Phil Spencer’s Strategy: Xbox Chief Phil Spencer emphasizes the need for creativity and adaptability in gaming, moving away from traditional console limitations.

    Ninja Theory, known for its games like Heavenly Sword and Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, has shared that the sequel to Hellblade will be available on PlayStation 5 “this summer.”

    New Features for Players

    The UK-based studio made the announcement on X, revealing that there will be “some exciting new features” coming in a free update for players on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Steam.

    Originally, Hellblade was a timed exclusive for PlayStation 4 and PC when it launched in 2017. Afterward, it was made available on Nintendo Switch in 2019, and then on Xbox Series X|S in 2021.

    Upcoming Titles

    Hellblade 2 marks the newest Xbox exclusive making its debut on Sony’s PlayStation. Indiana Jones And The Great Circle is also expected to launch on PS5 this coming spring, alongside Forza Horizon 5. There are strong rumors suggesting that some Halo series titles might be heading to this platform, as well as the upcoming Perfect Dark reboot, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, and the new entry in the Gears of War franchise.

    The Verge has reported that Microsoft is looking into ports for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, although details on that remain sparse at this time.

    Phil Spencer’s Vision

    Earlier last year, Xbox Chief Phil Spencer spoke to Bloomberg, stating, “I do not see sort of red lines in our portfolio that say ‘thou must not.” He emphasized the need for the company to be “creative and adaptive to new business models, new devices, new ways of access. We’re not going to grow the market with $1,000 consoles.”

    With Hellblade 2’s arrival on PlayStation, it seems that the gaming landscape continues to evolve, with more possibilities emerging for players across different platforms.

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  • Helldivers 2 Heart of Democracy Update: Fight for Your Home

    Helldivers 2 Heart of Democracy Update: Fight for Your Home

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ‘Heart of Democracy’ update transforms Helldivers 2 into urban warfare, where players protect cities from the Illuminate.
    2. Players must safeguard civilians during missions, introducing penalties for friendly fire against non-combatants.
    3. AI-controlled SEAF troops are now part of the gameplay, enhancing strategy and teamwork.
    4. The update has led to a surge in player engagement, with a peak of 134,527 players on Steam within 24 hours.
    5. Weapon customization has been enhanced, allowing players to unlock attachments to battle new enemies like the Crescent Overseer and Fleshmob.

    Arrowhead Game Studios has released its most daring update for Helldivers 2 yet. The ‘Heart of Democracy’ update brings the battle directly to the streets of Super Earth, turning the conflict into a gritty struggle for survival. Launched on May 20, this update marks a significant change in both the setting and gameplay, requiring players to fend off the Illuminate in urban landscapes.

    Urban Warfare

    In this fresh chapter, players are tasked with protecting cities that have been taken over by the squid-like Illuminate. Moreover, players must safeguard civilians who now find themselves in the midst of active combat zones. This introduces penalties for friendly fire against non-combatants, adding a layer of complexity to the missions. Players are also required to activate Planetary Defense Cannons to repel the enemy fleet.

    AI Allies Join the Fight

    A crucial addition in this update is the introduction of AI-controlled SEAF troops, who can operate on their own or accompany players to provide assistance during missions. This feature brings a new dimension of strategy to the gameplay, which already relies heavily on precision and teamwork.

    As a result of this update, Helldivers 2 is seeing a surge in player engagement. At the moment, the game is trending on Steam DB, achieving a peak of 134,527 players within 24 hours of the update’s launch.

    Weapon Customization Enhancements

    The Heart of Democracy update also expands on last week’s introduction of primary weapon customization, allowing players to unlock various attachments as they progress in levels. These enhancements are essential for battling new Illuminate foes such as the Crescent Overseer and the gigantic Fleshmob.

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  • Mortal Kombat 1 Definitive Edition for $70: All DLCs & Movie Skins

    Mortal Kombat 1 Definitive Edition for $70: All DLCs & Movie Skins

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition includes the base game, Khaos Reigns Expansion, Kombat Packs, pre-order bonuses, and various skins and unlocks.
    2. The game will be available on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC, with prices set at $69.99 (PS5, Xbox, PC) and $59.99 (Nintendo Switch).
    3. PC players can purchase the game through the Epic Game Store and Steam; a physical version has not been confirmed.
    4. An upgrade option for existing players costs $59.99, leading to complaints about its high price and lack of future support for the original game.
    5. The release of the Definitive Edition marks the end of support for the original Mortal Kombat 1, which launched in September 2023.

    NetherRealm Studios has revealed the Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition. This updated edition of the well-known fighting game will be available for consoles and PC, making it a smart buy for anyone who hasn’t played it yet.

    What’s Included

    Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition comes with the base game, the Khaos Reigns Expansion Story Content, Kombat Pack 1 and Kombat Pack 2, the Shang Tsung pre-order bonus, six kameo fighters, five skins inspired by the Mortal Kombat 2 movie, the Tournament Liu Kang Skin, six Premier Skins, a 1250 Dragon Krystal Pack, and the Kameo Unlock Pack along with an instant unlock for Havik.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can find Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition on platforms like Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5 (listed on Amazon for $499), Nintendo Switch, and PC. The game is priced at $69.99 across all platforms, except for the Nintendo Switch where it’s priced at $59.99 on the eShop. For PC players, the game will be available on both the Epic Game Store and Steam. However, NetherRealm Studios hasn’t confirmed if there will be a physical version, so don’t expect one anytime soon.

    Upgrade Options

    There’s also an upgrade option for players who already own the base game (only on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC), but it costs $59.99, which many consider quite steep. Fans are upset not just about the high price, but also that the release of the definitive edition signifies the end of support for the game that launched in September 2023, which was supposed to receive a new story expansion.

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  • PS5 Shipments Hit 77.8 Million; Software and Services Soar in FY2024

    PS5 Shipments Hit 77.8 Million; Software and Services Soar in FY2024

    Key Takeaways

    1. Global PS5 shipments reached 77.8 million units as of March 31, 2025, with a decline in fourth-quarter shipments.
    2. Total PS5 shipments for FY2024 were 18.5 million, down from 20.8 million in FY2023, indicating a slowdown in hardware sales.
    3. The Game & Network Services division showed strong performance in software and digital content, despite hardware sales decline.
    4. Growth in digital sector revenue and subscriptions helped mitigate losses from declining console sales.
    5. The PS5 lineup has evolved with slimmer models released in 2023 and a new PS5 Pro introduced in 2024.

    In the recent financial update, Sony announced that global shipments of the PlayStation 5 have reached 77.8 million units as of March 31, 2025. This total includes 2.8 million units shipped in the fourth quarter of FY2024 (from January to March 2025), which is a decrease from 4.5 million units during the same quarter last year. For the entire fiscal year, PS5 shipments totaled 18.5 million, showing a drop from 20.8 million in FY2023, suggesting a slowdown in the momentum of hardware sales.

    Strong Performance Despite Decline

    Even with the decline in console sales, the Game & Network Services (G&NS) division at Sony has performed well in terms of software, services, and digital content offerings. This segment has managed to hold its ground, showcasing resilience in a challenging market.

    The highlights from Sony’s complete FY2024 Q4 supplemental report indicate that while hardware shipments have faced a downturn, the growth in the platform’s digital sector and ongoing revenue from subscriptions and add-on content have helped mitigate those losses. Additionally, Sony’s focus on software, live services, and digital sales highlights the maturing phase of the console’s lifecycle and a more robust effort towards achieving long-term profitability.

    Changes in the PS5 Lineup

    The PlayStation 5 (currently priced at $759.69 on Amazon) was released in 2020, marking the most significant console launch ever. In 2023, the original console models were upgraded to slimmer versions, and just recently, in 2024, a PS5 Pro with enhanced specifications was introduced.

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  • Hell Divers 2: Illuminate Enemies, Custom Weapons, and More

    Hell Divers 2: Illuminate Enemies, Custom Weapons, and More

    Key Takeaways

    1. Introduction of a new enemy faction called the Illuminate, originating from the Meridian singularity.
    2. New weapon customization options available for most primary weapons to help players face challenges.
    3. Release of the Masters of Ceremony Warbond on May 15th, featuring the CQC-2 Sabre and the R-2 Amendment hybrid weapon.
    4. Expansion of the Superstore to permanently provide all items, responding to player feedback about limited-time content.
    5. Earlier Warbonds like Viper Commandos and Freedom’s Flame will receive fresh patterns and FRV skins for more customization options.

    Arrowhead Game Studios has revealed a big content update for Helldivers 2, which brings in a fresh foe faction called the Illuminate. This update also features much-anticipated weapon customization options and the upcoming Masters of Ceremony Warbond, scheduled for release on May 15th.

    New Enemy Faction

    The Illuminate threat originates from the Meridian singularity, which introduces new challenges for players.

    There are hints of larger enemy units that are still classified and under observation. To help players face these dangers, weapon customization is now available for most primary weapons.

    Exciting New Weapons

    Additionally, the Masters of Ceremony Warbond presents the CQC-2 Sabre, a blade designed for close-quarters combat, along with the R-2 Amendment, a hybrid weapon that includes a bayonet. Players can also expect new boosters, stratagems, throwables, and stylish military-themed cosmetics.

    Moreover, earlier Warbonds like Viper Commandos, Freedom’s Flame, and Truth Enforcers will also get fresh patterns and FRV skins, ensuring that players have more options.

    Superstore Expansion

    Another key update is the Superstore, which has been enlarged to provide all items permanently, eliminating the need to wait for rotations. This significant change allows players to access content that was previously limited in time, making it easier to enjoy the game without interruptions, a change made in response to player feedback.

    As noted before, the new Helldivers 2 update is set to launch on May 15th. The game initially came out in February 2024 and is available on PlayStation 5 and Windows PC.

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  • PS4 and PS5 Outpace Xbox by 10 Million Players in 2024

    PS4 and PS5 Outpace Xbox by 10 Million Players in 2024

    Key Takeaways

    1. PlayStation is expected to have 10 million more users in the U.S. than Xbox by the end of 2024, with a growing player lead since 2022.
    2. Microsoft’s focus on game publishing across platforms is impacting Xbox sales, as former exclusives are now available on PlayStation.
    3. Game Pass has helped retain some Xbox gamers, but its absence on PlayStation limits its reach.
    4. The launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 boosted Game Pass subscriptions but did not maintain Xbox’s player base advantage.
    5. Microsoft faces challenges with declining Xbox console appeal due to price hikes and competition from Sony.

    With Microsoft not putting much attention on hardware, it’s not surprising that the PS5 would have an advantage in the race for console sales. Recent Ampere data gives gamers proof of PlayStation’s lead. By the end of 2024, there will be 10 million more gamers in the U.S. using Sony consoles compared to their Xbox counterparts. As reported by The Game Business, this difference would be even bigger if it weren’t for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 launching on Xbox Game Pass.

    PlayStation’s Growing Edge

    Ampere’s data indicates that by the end of 2022, PlayStation had a lead of six million players over Microsoft’s consoles. This gap has been slowly increasing and is expected to grow even more in the coming years. Microsoft is now focusing on publishing games across various platforms, including the PS5. As former Xbox exclusive titles like Forza Horizon 5 make their way to PlayStation, sales for the Series X consoles have taken a hit. Reports suggest that Microsoft is collaborating with Asus on a Windows handheld device, but a new Xbox console might not appear until 2027 or 2028.

    The Impact of Game Pass

    Despite Xbox games being available on the PS5, Game Pass has kept some gamers loyal to the Series X and S. Although PC Game Pass features many of the same games, the subscription service is absent on PlayStation. The influence of Game Pass was noticeable with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 in October 2024. The Game Business reports that Black Ops 6 had the highest number of players at launch in the history of the shooter franchise. Moreover, Game Pass experienced the largest single-day growth in subscribers.

    Challenges Ahead for Microsoft

    Sadly for Microsoft, the excitement generated by the Activision game didn’t last long. Xbox consoles have seen a decline in their share of the Black Ops 6 player base. After leading for a time, the player numbers on PlayStation and Xbox consoles are now roughly equal.

    Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, has acknowledged that some gamers still prefer traditional purchasing methods. Game Pass alone won’t stop Sony from solidifying its position in the console competition. Additionally, recent price hikes for Xbox consoles have made Microsoft’s hardware less appealing to potential buyers.

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