Tag: PlayStation 5

  • Buy the PlayStation 5 Midnight Black Collection Now Available

    Buy the PlayStation 5 Midnight Black Collection Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony launched the Midnight Black Collection for PlayStation 5 accessories in January.
    2. The collection includes the PlayStation Portal, DualSense Edge Wireless Controller, Pulse Elite Wireless Headset, and Pulse Explore Wireless Earbuds.
    3. Pricing for the accessories: PlayStation Portal and DualSense Edge Controller are $199.99; Pulse Elite Headset is $149.99 (or $144.99 on Amazon); Pulse Explore Earbuds are $199.99.
    4. The accessories are available for purchase on PlayStation.com, Amazon, and Best Buy.
    5. The Midnight Black Collection is also available in the UK, Europe, and Japan.

    Back in early January, Sony revealed a new color option for several PlayStation 5 accessories. Dubbed the Midnight Black Collection, these items can now be bought directly from Sony and its authorized retail partners.

    What’s Included in the Collection?

    The Midnight Black collection for PlayStation 5 features black versions of the PlayStation Portal, DualSense Edge Wireless Controller, Sony Pulse Elite Wireless Headset, and Sony Pulse Explore Wireless Earbuds.

    Pricing for the Accessories

    The PlayStation Portal in black is set at $199.99 and can be found for purchase on PlayStation.com, Amazon, and Best Buy. In contrast, the Midnight Black DualSense Edge Wireless Controller is not listed on Amazon but is available at Best Buy for the same price of $199.99.

    For enhancing your audio experience with the PS5, the Pulse Elite Wireless Headset in Midnight Black is offered at Best Buy and PlayStation.com for $149.99. Alternatively, you can snag it for a bit cheaper on Amazon for $144.99. If you’re leaning towards wireless earbuds, the PlayStation Pulse Explore Wireless Earbuds are priced at $199.99 and available at both Amazon and Best Buy.

    Availability in Other Regions

    Additionally, the Midnight Black Collection can also be bought in the UK, Europe, and Japan. It’s advisable to check your local PlayStation online store or partner retailers for availability.

    Sony’s offerings have been met with excitement, catering to fans who prefer a sleek and stylish look for their gaming gear.

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  • Game Developers Excited for Nintendo Switch 2’s Faster SoC and More RAM

    Game Developers Excited for Nintendo Switch 2’s Faster SoC and More RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. Limited RAM on the first-gen Switch forced developers to compress game files and textures significantly.
    2. The low-spec CPU resulted in longer loading screens when optimizing for preloaded textures, or performance drops when handling additional tasks.
    3. Developers had to lower target resolutions for games, often aiming for 540p to 720p instead of the typical 1440p or 4K.
    4. There’s excitement among developers for the Switch 2, with hopes of better porting capabilities for games from newer consoles.
    5. Rumored specifications for the Switch 2 include 12 GB of RAM and improved CPU/GPU performance, which could enhance game development and performance.

    The challenges faced when adapting games for the first-gen Switch hardware stemmed largely from its limited capabilities across the board. Developers noted that the RAM was only half of what more robust competitors had, forcing them to compress game files and textures “to the limit” in order to conserve memory. Similarly, the low-spec CPU meant developers had a choice: they could either spend considerable time optimizing their games to preload textures and environments, which led to longer loading screens, or they could let the already-busy CPU handle additional background tasks, which caused a drop in performance.

    Developer Insights

    “We had to squeeze textures as much as we could to save on memory, but the downside was that for every memory bit we freed, the game looked better. It was kinda like solving a puzzle, and honestly, it was fun,” shared one developer who spoke to Automaton.

    Resolution Challenges

    The Switch’s somewhat underwhelming GPU meant that developers had to significantly lower their target resolutions—from 1440p and 4K, typical for the latest consoles, to about 540p to 720p for Switch adaptations. Often, the resolution aimed for in these ports was only 25% of the Switch’s own native 720p display.

    Looking Forward

    When asked about their hopes for the Switch 2, developers expressed enthusiasm about being able to port more games, particularly those made for newer consoles like the Xbox Series X (priced at $499.99 on Amazon) and PlayStation 5 (also $499.99 on Amazon). Although Nintendo has not yet disclosed precise details about the Switch 2’s specifications, rumors suggest that the new console may come with around 12 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and an 8 nm SoC, which would greatly enhance both CPU and GPU performance. This advancement could facilitate the development and operation of both native Switch games and game ports.

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  • GTA Developer Launches New Explosive Third-Person Shooter Game

    GTA Developer Launches New Explosive Third-Person Shooter Game

    Key Takeaways

    1. Leslie Benzies, former president of Rockstar North, was key in developing iconic games like GTA III, Vice City, and GTA V before starting his own company, Build A Rocket Boy, in 2016.
    2. Benzies’ debut game, Everywhere, is a sandbox MMO allowing players to explore and create their own worlds and challenges, with closed beta sign-ups available.
    3. At a recent Sony event, Benzies announced his second game, MindsEye, a third-person shooter featuring the character Jacob Diaz and themes of AI and military factions.
    4. Community reactions to MindsEye have been mixed, with praise for cinematic cutscenes but criticism of incomplete graphics reminiscent of older gaming consoles.
    5. MindsEye is set to launch in summer 2025 on PlayStation 5, with Xbox Series X|S and PC versions to follow, and players can add it to their Steam wishlist.

    Leslie Benzies, who was the president of Rockstar North, was instrumental in creating popular games like GTA III, Vice City, San Andreas, GTA IV, and GTA V before parting ways with the company in 2016. After his departure, he started his own company called Build A Rocket Boy, which revealed its debut game in 2022. The game, titled Everywhere, is a sandbox MMO that lets players explore pre-existing content and design their own worlds, games, and challenges. While a specific release date hasn’t been provided yet, players can sign up for closed beta tests.

    New Game Announcement

    At a recent Sony State of Play event that showcased significant gaming announcements, Leslie Benzies and his studio introduced their second title – MindsEye, a thrilling third-person shooter. Players will assume the character of Jacob Diaz, a former soldier who has a strange neural implant, which brings back memories of a pivotal mission. The game’s trailer suggests a focus on artificial intelligence, cutting-edge experiments, and rogue military factions as Diaz seeks to uncover the secrets of his past. Fans of both storytelling and action may find themselves captivated by the game’s explosive third-person combat, which includes ground skirmishes, car chases, and helicopter confrontations.

    Community Reactions

    The feedback for MindsEye on Reddit has been varied. While many have applauded the cinematic cutscenes, the graphics have been criticized for appearing incomplete. Some users have likened the visuals to those of older AA games from the PS3 and Xbox 360 era, leading to concerns about the game’s overall quality. Nonetheless, this viewpoint could change as the game gets closer to its release date.

    MindsEye is projected to launch in the summer of 2025, although a precise date has not yet been confirmed. It will debut on PlayStation 5, with versions for Xbox Series X|S and PC (available through Steam) coming later. Players can currently add the game to their wishlist on Steam.

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  • 1 vs. 1,000 Battles: Exciting Roguelite Shadow Drop Surprise

    1 vs. 1,000 Battles: Exciting Roguelite Shadow Drop Surprise

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Release: Warriors: Abyss was unexpectedly launched during the PlayStation State of Play event on February 12, 2025, for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

    2. Gameplay Mechanics: Players fight as a hero summoned to the underworld to defeat the evil Gouma, gathering Karma Embers to recruit fallen heroes and build a team.

    3. Classic and New Features: The game retains the traditional 1 vs. 1,000 battle style while introducing roguelite elements, including procedurally generated levels and enemy layouts.

    4. Progression System: Most progress resets after defeat, but players can keep certain upgrades, unlocked heroes, and collected Karma Embers.

    5. Player Reception and Pricing: Warriors: Abyss holds a 75% positive rating from 74 Steam reviews and is priced at $24.99, with special editions offering additional content at higher prices.

    The latest addition to the popular Warriors series, known for its epic battles, is Dynasty Warriors: Origins, which was released in January 2025. During the PlayStation State of Play event on February 12, various games were announced. One of the highlights was Warriors: Abyss, which unexpectedly launched as a shadow drop for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

    Gameplay Overview

    In Warriors: Abyss, players take on the role of a hero who is summoned to the underworld by the King of Hell to vanquish the evil Gouma. As you fight through swarms of hellish foes, you gather Karma Embers—an in-game currency that allows you to recruit the spirits of fallen heroes and build a formidable team. With more than 100 heroes at your disposal, the game provides a rich strategic experience.

    New Features

    The game maintains the classic 1 vs. 1,000 battle style that fans love while introducing roguelite elements for the first time. Each playthrough presents randomly generated enemy layouts and power-ups, with levels that are also procedurally created, ensuring a unique experience with every session. Although most progress is reset after a defeat, certain upgrades, unlocked heroes, and collected Karma Embers persist.

    Player Reception and Editions

    Currently, Warriors: Abyss has received 74 reviews on Steam, with approximately 75% of players rating it positively. The game is priced at $24.99 on Steam, while the Hack’n’Dash Edition costs $39.99, and the Hack’n’Dash Ultimate Edition is available for $79.99. These special editions come with extra playable characters, skins, and Karma Embers.

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  • Saros: Housemarque Reveals Returnal’s Spiritual Successor

    Saros: Housemarque Reveals Returnal’s Spiritual Successor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Housemarque’s new game, Saros, is set for release in 2026 and features action-roguelike gameplay.
    2. Players will be able to permanently enhance their loadout with a variety of weapons and suit upgrades.
    3. The protagonist, Arjun Devraj, explores the off-world colony of Carcosa, hinting at a shared universe with Returnal.
    4. NPCs will populate the world, potentially including references or Easter eggs related to Selene from Returnal.
    5. Additional gameplay footage of Saros will be revealed later this year, likely during another State of Play event.

    Housemarque, known for their hit game Returnal, has just unveiled their upcoming project during today’s State of Play event. While fans might have hoped for Returnal 2, the new title, Saros, could exceed expectations. Towards the conclusion of the reveal, we witnessed an impressive array of projectiles aimed right at us, indicating that the thrilling bullet hell mechanics from Returnal are definitely making a return.

    Game Overview

    The new game is named Saros, with a planned release set for 2026. Similar to Returnal, it will feature an action-roguelike gameplay style. However, in Saros, players can “select and permanently enhance their loadout from an evolving array of weapons and suit upgrades,” which will provide a lasting improvement for each gaming session.

    Character and Setting

    In Saros, you step into the shoes of Arjun Devraj, situated on the off-world colony known as Carcosa. This backdrop hints at a shared universe with Returnal. You won’t be traversing this world alone, as there will be other NPCs scattered throughout. Who knows? We might even catch a glimpse or an Easter egg featuring Selene, the protagonist from Returnal.

    Future Reveals

    Housemarque has stated that they will reveal more detailed gameplay footage of Saros “later this year,” probably during another State of Play event. The game’s release is expected in 2026, and it will likely be a PlayStation 5 exclusive. There are hopes for a PC version to be released the following year, but that’s still quite a while off.

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  • GTA 6 Nears Completion: Game Now Fully Playable

    GTA 6 Nears Completion: Game Now Fully Playable

    Key Takeaways

    1. GTA 6 is set to release in 2025 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, though concerns about sticking to this timeline remain in the gaming community.
    2. Former Rockstar employee Mike York confirmed that GTA 6 is fully playable and in the final testing phase, focusing on bug fixes.
    3. The development team is prioritizing a seamless gameplay experience by thoroughly testing various scenarios due to the unpredictable nature of player behavior in GTA.
    4. York believes that while new features may still be added, the game is progressing well enough to keep the 2025 launch on track.
    5. Limited updates from official channels have not dampened excitement, as the first trailer released on December 5, 2023, continues to fuel anticipation.

    GTA 6 is considered by many to be the most eagerly awaited video game ever. Since the release of its first trailer on December 5, 2023, updates from official channels have been limited. However, the GTA 6 website has confirmed that the game will be available in 2025 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Despite this, there are still doubts in the gaming community about whether Rockstar Games can stick to this timeline. Yet, a former Rockstar employee believes that a 2025 launch is quite plausible.

    Insights from a Former Developer

    Mike York, who previously worked with Rockstar on titles like GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2, provided some information about the development of GTA 6 during an interview with Kiwi Talkz, which has since been removed. This has sparked various discussions on Reddit. York mentioned that the game is currently fully playable and has reached its final testing phase. Even though the content is complete, a game as expansive as GTA 6 is probably filled with hidden bugs, and fixing these issues has become the main focus.

    The ex-Rockstar developer emphasized that the team is concentrating on finding and resolving bugs to ensure a seamless experience upon launch.

    Development Challenges

    “They’re likely still adding some new features here and there, but I would think the game is playable now, and many individuals are testing it thoroughly,” he said. When comparing the final testing phase of GTA 6 to a more straightforward action RPG like The Witcher 3, York pointed out that player behavior in GTA is significantly more unpredictable. This unpredictability necessitates a lot of testing across various scenarios to guarantee a smooth gameplay experience. Although this process may take time, York’s comments indicate that development is progressing well, keeping the 2025 launch on track.

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  • GTA 6 Performance: 30fps Target for PS5, Xbox Series X, PC Later

    GTA 6 Performance: 30fps Target for PS5, Xbox Series X, PC Later

    As the anticipation for Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) grows, there are increasing conversations about how it will perform on gaming consoles and its potential pricing. A former animator from Rockstar Games has shared insights on what to expect regarding the game’s frame rate, while other reports indicate that GTA 6 may have a higher price than earlier titles.

    Console Performance Predictions

    Mike York, who previously worked on both GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2, expressed that he thinks GTA 6 will probably run at 30 frames per second (fps) on consoles. In a chat with Kiwi Talkz, he mentioned that maintaining a steady frame rate is probably a top concern for Rockstar. He indicated that although the game might occasionally hit 40 or 50fps, a steady 60fps on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X seems unlikely unless Rockstar implements AI-driven upscaling or other optimization methods. However, PC gamers with high-performance setups could see higher frame rates once the game is released.

    Historical Context for Frame Rates

    When considering previous game releases, GTA 5 initially operated at 30fps on PlayStation 3 and only achieved 60fps on newer consoles after several enhancements over the years. With the advanced graphics of GTA 6, a similar situation could be anticipated.

    Another subject of interest is the possible price tag for GTA 6. Analyst Matthew Ball recently mentioned in his report, State of Video Gaming in 2025, that Take-Two Interactive, the parent company of Rockstar, might set the standard edition price at $100.

    Speculation on Release Dates

    Additionally, a leaked date from a Spanish retailer called XUruguay suggested that GTA 6 could be set to come out on September 17, 2025, which would be exactly 12 years after the launch of GTA 5. This listing was quickly taken down, leaving fans wondering if it was an authentic leak or just a guess based on Rockstar’s previously stated fall 2025 release timeframe.

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    GTA 6 Performance: 30fps Target for PS5, Xbox Series X, PC Later
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  • Forza Horizon 5 Launching on PS5 This Spring

    Forza Horizon 5 Launching on PS5 This Spring

    Over the past year, there has been a noticeable trend of more Xbox exclusive games making their way onto PlayStation platforms. The Forza Horizon series, however, is deeply tied to Xbox since it was first launched in 2012. Recently, Microsoft announced that Forza Horizon 5 is set to release on the PS5 this Spring. PlayStation players can look forward to enjoying the same free content that is available for PC and Xbox users. Additionally, players will have the option to buy other DLC and add-ons through the PlayStation Store.

    Developer Collaboration

    To facilitate the game’s transition to PlayStation, Panic Button has partnered with Turn 10 Studios and Playground Games. While specific technical information remains limited, there is a chance that the PS5 Pro’s capability for high refresh rates could enhance the Forza Horizon 5 experience. Even on the regular PS5, players can expect to zoom through the vibrant streets and lush jungles of Mexico, just like their Xbox counterparts.

    Exciting New Features

    To mark the launch of Forza Horizon 5 on PlayStation, the game will bring in the cross-platform feature called Horizon Realms. One of the reasons the game remains popular is its consistent release of new seasonal content. The Realms will reintroduce previous content, giving PS5 players opportunities to participate in special challenges, courses, and vehicles. Moreover, Convoys will enable racers across PC, Xbox, and PlayStation to compete directly against one another.

    Microsoft’s Multi-Platform Shift

    With Xbox console sales on the decline, Microsoft is increasingly focusing on a multi-platform approach. While Game Pass may not be available on PlayStation, many beloved titles, such as Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, will be making their way there. When compared to Gran Turismo 7 or Forza Motorsport, Forza Horizon 5 leans more towards an arcade-style gameplay. Nonetheless, the arrival of this franchise on the PS5 is sure to surprise fans of racing games.

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    Forza Horizon 5 Launching on PS5 This Spring
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  • Sony to End Production of Recordable Blu-ray Discs in February

    Sony to End Production of Recordable Blu-ray Discs in February

    Blu-ray is fading away, and Sony just took another step towards its end.

    This week, Sony Japan released a brief announcement stating that it will stop making recordable Blu-ray discs starting in February. Alongside this, the company will also halt the production of MiniDV cassette tapes, recordable MiniDiscs, and MD-Data discs next month.

    The Future of Blu-ray

    It’s important to note that while Sony is ceasing the production of recordable Blu-ray discs, standard Blu-ray discs used by retailers for movies, games, and other media will continue to be manufactured. Thus, the format isn’t completely disappearing just yet. The major change is that consumers will no longer have the option to buy new recordable Blu-rays for personal data storage (i.e., discs for burning media or information).

    The Shift Away from Physical Media

    This decision is part of a larger trend among manufacturers moving away from physical media. LG recently announced they would stop making or selling Blu-ray players by December 2024. Although Sony still produces Blu-ray players, along with a few other companies, it appears that physical media is nearing its conclusion. Given the swift increase in media streaming and the focus on platforms like PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, which are leaning heavily into streaming, the decline of physical formats like Blu-ray isn’t really shocking.

    Consumers can still find recordable Blu-ray discs from brands like Verbatim, which offers various storage options on Amazon (such as a 50-disc spindle of 25 GB discs, currently priced at $41.90). Yet, it’s uncertain how much longer these will be available; it seems many users prefer external hard drives and similar devices (which are less vulnerable to scratches and other environmental issues) for data storage instead of optical media.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Beats PS5 Reveal with 17M YouTube Views

    Nintendo Switch 2 Beats PS5 Reveal with 17M YouTube Views

    After being talked about for several years, the Nintendo Switch 2 was officially announced on January 16. The initial video released by the company showcased the new handheld gaming device, and it seems to be receiving a lot of attention. To be precise, this reveal video accumulated over 17 million views within just 48 hours.

    Comparing View Counts

    Naturally, the first-generation Nintendo Switch trailer had a stronger showing, racking up 19.5 million views on YouTube in the same two-day period. It’s quite fascinating that the new gaming handheld’s reveal video surpassed the first official PlayStation 5 video, which managed to gather about 13.3 million views in 48 hours.

    Growing Popularity on Social Media

    Another interesting point is that the Nintendo Switch 2’s reveal trailer on X is gaining even more traction. The video has achieved over 40 million views on Nintendo of America’s account, while the Japanese version has surpassed 52 million views.

    This clearly shows that there is significant excitement surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2. While the reveal trailer suggests that the handheld is set to meet expectations, the price will play a crucial role in its success. For reference, the original model debuted at a price of $299.99, which many consider a reasonable option compared to other popular handhelds, such as the ROG Ally (Z1 Extreme currently priced at $499.99 at Best Buy).

    Expected Pricing and Game Bundles

    A recent report indicates that the Nintendo Switch 2 will be priced at $499 and will include a Mario Kart game as part of the bundle. Without the game included, the handheld is expected to retail for around $449.99. More information will be shared by the company during the upcoming Nintendo Direct event.

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