Tag: PlayStation 5

  • Xbox Sales Decline: Microsoft Focuses on Game Pass and Cloud Gaming

    Xbox Sales Decline: Microsoft Focuses on Game Pass and Cloud Gaming

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox console sales in the UK dropped by 39% in 2025, marking the worst year in Xbox sales history.
    2. In the U.S., Xbox sales fell by 70% year-over-year in November 2025, the lowest month for video game console sales since 1995.
    3. Microsoft laid off thousands of workers and canceled many projects in its gaming division amid these sales declines.
    4. Microsoft is shifting focus to the Xbox Game Pass subscription service and expanding first-party titles to more platforms.
    5. Despite challenges, Xbox has upcoming titles like Forza Horizon 6 and plans for a Developer Direct Stream to showcase future content.

    2025 has been quite a challenging year for Microsoft, especially for its Xbox gaming sector, particularly in the UK, where console sales have dropped by 39% compared to 2024.

    Sales Decline Insights

    Christopher Dring from The Game Business has provided insights into the decline in Xbox hardware sales. The reported drop is astonishing, marking a 39% decrease from the previous year, making 2025 the worst year in the history of Xbox sales.

    In contrast, Sony’s PlayStation 5 only experienced a smaller sales drop of about 12% in the UK. This highlights that while the gaming industry is facing some challenges, Xbox appears to be bearing the majority of the impact.

    A Troubling Trend in the U.S.

    However, the situation looks even bleaker for Microsoft’s gaming division in the U.S. Data from Circana indicated that Xbox console sales plummeted by 70% year-over-year in November 2025. Many experts have labeled November 2025 as the worst month for video game console sales since 1995.

    PlayStation also faced a notable decline that month, with a 40% decrease in sales, but Xbox’s drop is significantly more severe.

    Major Changes Ahead

    It’s clear that Xbox went through major changes in 2025. The company had to lay off thousands of workers within its gaming division and scrapped many highly anticipated projects.

    Despite these challenges, Microsoft is not giving up. They are refocusing their efforts on the Xbox Game Pass subscription service and expanding their first-party titles to more platforms. Interestingly, Sony is also starting to follow this trend by gradually releasing its in-house games on both Xbox and PlayStation PC.

    Xbox Cloud is becoming increasingly important for delivering AAA gaming experiences on various devices, including smartphones, PCs, low-end notebooks, and even cars with compatible OS. It’s been evident for some time that profit margins on console sales are quite slim, so this strategy seems logical. Nonetheless, it is a tough adjustment for gamers who are deeply invested in the Xbox ecosystem.

    Looking Forward

    Nevertheless, Microsoft appears unfazed by the recent setbacks. Matt Booty, the company’s president of game and content studios, mentioned that Xbox will be hosting a Developer Direct Stream next month. He stated, “We’ve got more stuff coming up than we can fit in one show.”

    Regardless, Xbox has several much-anticipated titles, with gamers looking forward to Forza Horizon 6, which is set in Japan. However, after a difficult 2025, it will require more than just promises for Xbox to regain its footing in a market that is currently dominated by Sony’s PS5 and Nintendo’s Switch 2, both of which boast extensive libraries of exclusive games.

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  • GPD Win 5 Achieves 93.5% PS5 FPS in Alan Wake 2 at 1440p

    GPD Win 5 Achieves 93.5% PS5 FPS in Alan Wake 2 at 1440p

    Key Takeaways

    1. The GPD Win 5 was released on October 17, 2025, featuring AMD’s powerful Ryzen 9 AI Max+395 processor, also known as Strix Halo.
    2. It boasts impressive specs, including 16 CPU cores, 40 RDNA 3.5 compute units, and a high bandwidth of 256 GB/s, with a larger silicon die than the PS5 Pro.
    3. In benchmarks, the GPD Win 5 achieved 93.5% of the PS5’s FPS at 1440p, demonstrating strong performance in demanding games.
    4. At 1080p, it performed at 85.6% of the PS5, with a notable increase when using FSR 2 Performance Mode.
    5. The GPD Win 5 is priced over $2,000, highlighting its premium positioning in the handheld gaming market.

    The GPD Win 5 hit the market on 17 October 2025, showing itself to be a small but mighty device that rivals the performance of the PlayStation 5. It features AMD’s Ryzen 9 AI Max+395 processor, which is also known by its codename, Strix Halo.

    Impressive Specifications

    At first glance, it may seem absurd to fit such a powerful chip into a handheld console. The Strix Halo packs in 16 CPU cores, 40 RDNA 3.5 compute units, and a 256-bit memory interface, providing an impressive 256 GB/s of bandwidth. Moreover, it has a larger silicon die of 440 mm² compared to the PS5 Pro’s 280 mm² Viola chip.

    Despite the Strix Halo being originally intended for laptops and mini PCs with a power draw of 140 watts, it still performs admirably in the GPD Win 5. The power consumption ranges from 7W to 85W, with an optimal power setting around 50W.

    Benchmarking Against the PS5

    Digital Foundry put the GPD Win 5 to the test against the PS5 using demanding titles like Alan Wake 2. The game was tested on the GPD Win 5 using “Tweaked Low” graphical settings. During a stress test that matched the PS5’s settings at 1440p, the GPD Win 5 achieved nearly 93.5% of the console’s FPS, hitting 51.65 FPS against the PS5’s 55.25 FPS.

    In battery mode with the GPD Win 5 set to 30W, it still managed to reach 69.6% performance at the same resolution, delivering 39 FPS.

    Performance at Different Resolutions

    When tested at 1080p, the GPD Win 5 performed at 85.6% of the PS5, yielding around 47.3 FPS, which increases to 51.47 FPS when using FSR 2 Performance Mode. The PS5, by comparison, produces 53 FPS at 1440p in Performance Mode during the identical stress test.

    Other handheld gaming PCs like AYANEO and OneXPlayer are reportedly planning to incorporate a Strix Halo APU into their devices. Yet, GPD is currently ahead, being the first handheld device to utilize AMD’s Strix Halo APU.

    Pricing Insights

    Although the GPD Win 5 is on the higher side, exceeding $2,000 ($2,179 for the 32GB LPDDR5X model with a 2TB NVMe), it’s still a remarkable insight into the potential of future handhelds, provided that battery technology can keep pace with the advances in silicon.

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  • Sony’s PS5 BootROM Keys Leaked: Unfixable Security Flaw

    Sony’s PS5 BootROM Keys Leaked: Unfixable Security Flaw

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PlayStation 5’s ROM keys were leaked online on December 31, 2025, allowing potential for future jailbreaking by modders and hackers.
    2. The leaked BootROM codes are crucial security measures that verify the authenticity of the PS5 bootloader during startup.
    3. With the keys accessible, modders may decrypt the bootloader and execute unsigned code, but an immediate jailbreak is not expected.
    4. Sony faces significant challenges in securing the PS5, potentially requiring redesigns for future models or recalling existing units, which is costly.
    5. The leak could lead to similar issues as seen with the PS3, such as piracy and cheating, but other security measures still protect the console for now.

    Right at the start of 2026, a major security incident unfolded when the PlayStation 5’s ROM keys were made public online, which could give modders and hackers a chance to jailbreak Sony’s console in the future.

    Understanding the Leak

    As reported by Cyber Sec Guru, the ROM keys of the PlayStation 5 are basically codes found in the PS5’s processor. These keys were leaked online on December 31, 2025, and quickly circulated across various forums and wikis.

    For the typical gamer, this doesn’t mean a jailbreak for the PS5 is happening right away, but for those with more technical skills who enjoy exploring the intricate details of Sony’s hardware and software, things could become much easier.

    The Details of the BootROM Codes

    The specific leak involves BootROM codes, which, in simple terms, are the primary security measures activated when powering on your PS5. These codes check if the bootloader is genuine and has not been altered.

    With these keys now accessible, hackers and modders might be able to decrypt and reverse-engineer the bootloader to understand how the console’s startup process functions, with the ultimate goal of executing unsigned code directly on the device. The troubling aspect is that these bootloader keys are embedded straight into the PS5’s silicon, making it nearly impossible for Sony to implement a straightforward update or patch for millions of consoles.

    Sony’s Challenges Ahead

    It’s probable that Sony would have to redesign the PS5 for any future models or even consider recalling the current ones, which is highly unlikely due to the enormous costs involved.

    Although this leak won’t lead to an instant jailbreak, it does make it easier for homebrew developers. The entire set of PS5 bootloader ROM keys has already been published on the PS5 Developer Wiki, containing hex strings and keyseeds.

    This situation is not Sony’s first encounter with hackers and modders exploiting PlayStation security flaws. During the PS3 era, a mistake in cryptography allowed modders to run homebrew software on the console. This resulted in not just rampant piracy but also cheating in online games like Call of Duty.

    Future Implications

    The leak of the PS5 ROM keys could potentially result in similar challenges in the future, such as hackers executing unsigned code or discovering simpler methods to back up and play pirated PS5 games. However, that would require some time, as other security measures remain intact, even if it opens the gateway to potential homebrew on Sony’s latest gaming console.

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  • Universal Game Format Needed to Break 250 Million Console Limit

    Universal Game Format Needed to Break 250 Million Console Limit

    Key Takeaways

    1. Shawn Layden believes the gaming industry is stagnant in audience growth and needs a unifying format to progress.
    2. Console sales per generation have remained consistent, with casual gamers included in the large industry statistics.
    3. The gaming market is “stuck,” with previous peaks in audience numbers largely tied to non-traditional gaming consoles like the Wii.
    4. Layden emphasizes the importance of licensing formats for broader market reach, citing the Betamax vs. VHS scenario.
    5. He supports the value of exclusive games for consoles, acknowledging their role in enhancing brand identity while promoting a unified gaming experience.

    Former Sony executive Shawn Layden, who left his role as chairman of SIE Worldwide Studios in 2019 after a long career of thirty years with the company, recently expressed his views in an interview. He claims that the gaming industry is stagnant regarding audience growth. Layden suggests that a unifying gaming format, akin to how DVDs or VHS tapes used to be standard, is essential for making progress.

    Industry Trends

    Layden has always been vocal about his opinions on video game trends. In a recent chat with YouTubers Naomi Kyle and Pause for Thought, he noted that console sales per generation have remained relatively unchanged over time. He elaborated by saying:

    “We discuss gaming as a $250 billion industry, which it is, and it has hundreds of millions of players, which is true. But that count also includes casual players. If you’re playing Wordle, you’re included as a gamer. If you’re on Candy Crush, you’re counted too.”

    He pointed out examples from the past, mentioning the PlayStation 1, Sega Saturn, and Nintendo 64, which all aligned with his estimated figures. The Wii was a notable exception because it attracted many non-gamers interested in titles like Wii Fit.

    Market Limitations

    Layden believes that the market is “stuck” or somewhat restricted. He further clarified this by stating:

    “If you line up all the PS1s, Sega Saturns, and N64s by generation, they all hit around 250 million. The only time it peaked near 300 million was during the Wii era when people thought buying a Wii Fit would help them lose weight. That brought in a non-traditional gaming audience.”

    However, he insists that this was a one-time occurrence, and the market has since plateaued. He thinks it’s crucial to break through this barrier. “Some may think I’m crazy for saying this, but the reason Sony’s Betamax format lost to VHS was that VHS allowed other manufacturers to license its format.”

    Preserving Console Identity

    Despite his views on a unified format, Layden does not advocate for eliminating what makes each console special. In the same interview, he added:

    “I don’t believe every game needs to be exclusive to a console, but I recognize the importance of exclusives for platform holders like Sony and Nintendo. Strong exclusives add significant value to their brands.”

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  • PS5 RPG with Studio Ghibli Vibes Faces Kickstarter Backlash

    PS5 RPG with Studio Ghibli Vibes Faces Kickstarter Backlash

    Key Takeaways

    1. Neostream Interactive, founded by Kody and J.J. Lee in 1998, shifted from a multimedia firm to game development, launching a successful Kickstarter campaign for Little Devil Inside in 2015.
    2. The game has faced consistent delays, missing multiple launch deadlines set for 2016, 2018, 2021, and 2022, with the latest update suggesting a lack of regular communication.
    3. Development challenges, including a transition to Unreal Engine and a downsized team, have contributed to the protracted timeline for the game’s release.
    4. The game is currently available as a limited-time exclusive on PlayStation 4 and 5, with uncertain plans for releases on other platforms, including Steam.
    5. Backers have expressed frustration over the lack of updates and clarity regarding the game’s status, leading to feelings of being “scammed” by the developers, and raising doubts about the potential release in the future.

    Back in 1998, two brothers named Kody and J.J. Lee started a business called Neostream Interactive Pty Ltd. Initially, it was a multimedia firm, but it eventually shifted its focus to game creation. In 2015, they kicked off a Kickstarter campaign for their game, aiming to collect AUD 250,000; remarkably, they managed to raise over AUD 300,000. Based in Seoul, Korea, the company reached its goal within days and aimed for a late 2016 launch. Fast forward nearly a decade, and the game Little Devil Inside is still in development, which is a bit ironic, as it makes Star Citizen look like a well-behaved scout in comparison.

    Consistent Delays

    Neostream has failed to meet every deadline they set over the past decade, including their original launch dates of 2016, 2018, 2021, and 2022. In an update from April last year, the developers discussed the reasons behind the delays, such as downsizing their team to a “smaller, bonded team.” They mentioned that the game is currently available for a limited-time exclusive release on PlayStation 4 and 5, with plans for Xbox One and Nintendo Switch ports, but didn’t say anything about a release on Steam. The game was once featured on Steam Greenlight, which was shut down in 2017 and replaced by Steam Direct, a much easier process.

    Updates and Feedback

    The developers continued to update their website with more information leading up to the game’s release, providing “periodic updates” until April 2024. They acknowledged the delays, stating: “We know this doesn’t and shouldn’t justify for all the delays and lack of news but we’re still here, have been and always will be.” This sparse update marked the first real official news since 2020. Many backers expressed their frustration, especially those who couldn’t have their pledges honored due to the company’s change in direction.

    Development Challenges

    According to the developers, various challenges encountered throughout the years have caused the delays, including a transition to Unreal Engine. The best way to catch a glimpse of the game is through a PlayStation-hosted showcase trailer here and a more recent one here, while the PlayStation store page is still active, indicating the title as ‘announced’ for those interested. This might clarify the game’s unclear status on Steam, where its landing page has been removed, hinting at possible exclusivity on PlayStation, even though the (unsecured) Neostream site still displays a Windows logo.

    Currently, the Kickstarter page for Little Devil Inside still lists a ‘fall 2016’ release date. However, the developers stated, “We have genuinely started discussions regarding publishing, and once this clears out, hopefully we’ll be able to answer what everyone wants to know.” This was followed by their last known dev update (April 2024), suggesting that while future updates may occur, they probably won’t be regular, with numerous user comments on Kickstarter complaining about feeling ‘scammed’ by the developer staying unanswered.

    While some may hold on to hope for a release in 2026, if the developers’ history continues, it’s possible that some backers might never see a launch in their lifetime, as skeptics on the Kickstarter page have hinted.

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  • Brook Launches Wingman FGC VX Controller Converter for PS4/PS5

    Brook Launches Wingman FGC VX Controller Converter for PS4/PS5

    Key Takeaways

    1. Wide Compatibility: The Brook Wingman FGC VX converter allows over 150 third-party controllers to work with PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.

    2. Low Latency Connection: The device connects via USB-A or USB-C and supports both wired and wireless controllers with ultra-low latency.

    3. Customizable Features: Users can enjoy six-axis motion control, adjustable vibration levels, remappable buttons, and stick calibration.

    4. Advanced Gaming Modes: The converter includes Turbo mode for rapid actions and Macro mode for executing complex combos, with options to disable for e-sports.

    5. PC Compatibility and Pricing: It supports X-Input mode for PC use and is available for purchase for $71.99 on Amazon.

    Brook has introduced the Wingman FGC VX converter for users of PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 in the United States. This device enables gamers to utilize more than 150 third-party controllers not originally intended for compatibility with these consoles, including the 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth controller available on Amazon.

    Compatibility and Features

    This converter features ultra-low latency and connects to USB-A ports (or USB-C ports with an adapter). Wired controllers can be connected directly to the Brook Wingman, while wireless controllers link up wirelessly. The converter provides PS4 and PS5 support, offering six-axis motion control for compatible controllers, adjustable vibration levels, remappable buttons, and the ability to calibrate sticks according to user preferences.

    Advanced Modes for Gamers

    Moreover, the converter comes with additional functions for all controllers, including Turbo mode, which allows continuous firing or jumping, and Macro mode for easier execution of fighting game combos. These features can be turned off when participating in e-sports events using Brook’s Converter Center PC software.

    Specifications and Pricing

    The Wingman FGC VX converter also allows controllers to connect to PCs in X-Input mode, enabling desktop gamers to enjoy their preferred console controllers and fighting sticks. The dimensions of the converter are 77.0 x 20.3 x 12.4 mm (3.0 x 0.8 x 0.5 in.), with a weight of 13.4 g (0.47 oz.).

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  • Nex Playground Ranks No. 2 US Game Console by Prioritizing Fun

    Nex Playground Ranks No. 2 US Game Console by Prioritizing Fun

    Key Takeaways

    1. Affordability and Popularity: Nex Playground is priced at $250 and has become the second best-selling console in the U.S., surpassing PS5 sales before Black Friday.

    2. Gameplay Focus: The console prioritizes fun and engaging gameplay over high-end graphics, appealing to a wide audience with a straightforward approach.

    3. Unique Control System: Nex Playground uses a simple remote instead of traditional controllers, reducing costs and allowing for up to four players to be tracked simultaneously.

    4. Effective Pricing Strategy: Starting at $199 and later rising to $249, the pricing remains competitive, especially during holiday sales when it dropped to $200, attracting casual gamers.

    5. Market Positioning: Nex Playground shows that a focus on gameplay rather than graphics can succeed in a market dominated by high-end consoles, appealing to budget-conscious gamers.

    In a market where giants like Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo have long ruled, Nex Playground has popped up as a budget-friendly, family-oriented gaming option competing against the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S.

    Pricing and Popularity

    The Nex Playground is available for $250. This unique cube-shaped console has become quite popular, even surpassing PS5 sales in the week before Black Friday. Moreover, it ranks as the second best-selling console in the U.S., just behind the Nintendo Switch 2.

    Gameplay Focus

    Instead of following the trend of realistic graphics and ray tracing, Nex Playground opts for a more straightforward approach. Its design prioritizes fun and engaging gameplay, making it appealing to a wide range of players, largely due to its affordable pricing.

    Nex CEO David Lee has mentioned that Nex Playground is like a spiritual successor to the now-defunct Kinect motion sensor from Xbox.

    Insights on Success

    In a recent chat with the Game Business, Lee openly shared what he believes led to Playground’s impressive performance. He remarked:

    “We are not going to compete with high-end graphics. The graphic abilities on the Nex Playground are about the same as the PS3. But we can produce fun games on PS3.”

    He added, “The graphics are fine. It’s ten times better than the Wii. It’s not like it hasn’t improved since the Wii; it certainly has. And it allows us to create engaging games.”

    Another significant factor behind Playground’s triumph, as stated by Lee, is the absence of traditional controllers. He explained, “And there are no controllers. Controllers can be pricey these days. We use a simple remote to control games, and that’s all. Everything runs through the camera, which can track up to four players simultaneously. We made choices that keep the cost low.”

    Strategic Pricing

    Nex’s pricing strategy has proven effective. The Nex Playground started at $199 but rose to $249 in 2025. Still, it’s much more affordable compared to current-generation consoles from PlayStation, Nintendo, and Xbox.

    During the holiday sales, the Playground dropped back to $200, which further attracted casual gamers. Interestingly, the Playground surpassed Xbox hardware sales on Black Friday in terms of units sold, even though Xbox made more revenue due to the higher price of the Series S|X.

    As gaming costs rise, with RAM prices climbing and the industry focusing on visual quality over gameplay, the Nex Playground shows that sometimes a simple cube can be a better choice, especially for budget-conscious gamers in 2025 and beyond.

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  • Jaws: Retro Edition for PS5 & Switch Revives NES Classic Game

    Jaws: Retro Edition for PS5 & Switch Revives NES Classic Game

    Key Takeaways

    1. Limited Run Games is re-launching the classic 1987 NES title Jaws as Jaws: Retro Edition for PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, timed for the movie’s 50th anniversary in 2025.

    2. The game retains its original top-down and side-scrolling gameplay while offering modern upgrades and a “massively expanded” revamp influenced by all four Jaws films.

    3. Two physical editions are available: the Standard Edition for $34.99 and the Bigger Boat Edition for $99.99, with the latter including additional collectibles like a soundtrack CD and enamel pin.

    4. Both editions feature quality-of-life improvements, including save-anywhere options, a rewind function, achievements, and an art gallery, along with a new Enhanced Edition storyline.

    5. Pre-orders for Jaws: Retro Edition will begin on December 19, 2023, and run until January 18, 2026, with no purchase limits currently set.

    Paying tribute to the beloved horror film, Limited Run Games has revealed a physical re-launch of the classic 1987 NES title Jaws for the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, called Jaws: Retro Edition. This release is perfectly timed for the movie’s 50th anniversary in 2025.

    A Classic Reimagined

    Originally created by LJN, Jaws for the NES was heavily influenced by Steven Spielberg’s iconic film. Players find themselves in a fierce battle against the unyielding great white shark. The game features players steering a boat from a top-down view, engaging in side-scrolling harpoon hunting, and culminating in a 3D boss fight.

    Nearly four decades later, this beloved classic returns not only as an authentic port but also promises modern upgrades and a “massively expanded” revamp, taking cues from all four films in the Jaws series.

    Two Editions Available

    Limited Run Games’ re-launch, titled Jaws: Retro Edition, offers two physical options catering to both nostalgic collectors and casual retro enthusiasts. The Standard Edition, priced at $34.99, provides a region-free physical copy of the game and an eight-page booklet.

    For those seeking a more premium experience, the Bigger Boat Edition comes in at a hefty $99.99, including everything from the Standard Edition plus an NES-inspired slipcover box, a CD featuring the original soundtrack by Shinichi Sakamoto, a “Beach Closed” enamel pin, a keychain, and a pixelated great white shark lamp.

    Enhancements and Features

    Both editions of the game feature the original NES version with several quality-of-life improvements, such as the option to save anywhere, a rewind function, achievements and trophies, a built-in music player, and an art gallery.

    Jaws: Retro Edition also includes the new Enhanced Edition, which boasts a multi-chapter storyline that elevates the experience by integrating various elements from all four Jaws movies, rather than just focusing on the “good one.”

    Pre-orders for Jaws: Retro Edition will kick off next Friday, December 19, at 10 AM ET on the Limited Run Games website and will be available until January 18, 2026. The game is currently in pre-production with no purchase limits set.

    Whether you’re a Spielberg film enthusiast or a collector searching for revived retro gems, Jaws: Retro Edition ensures that the legacy of the great white shark lives on.

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  • Sony and J.J. Abrams Team Up for New PS5 & PC Co-Op Shooter

    Sony and J.J. Abrams Team Up for New PS5 & PC Co-Op Shooter

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony Interactive Entertainment is collaborating with Bad Robot Games, led by Mike Booth, to develop a new four-player cooperative shooter game.

    2. This marks Bad Robot’s first internally developed game, expanding their reach into the gaming industry after previous partnerships with major companies.

    3. The new game aims to capture the essence of cooperative gameplay similar to Left 4 Dead, known for its thrilling zombie-survival mechanics.

    4. Anna Sweet, CEO of Bad Robot Games, expressed excitement about creating a new intellectual property with Sony’s support, focusing on an innovative player experience.

    5. Christian Svensson from Sony highlighted the impressive talent at Bad Robot Games and the alignment of their creative approach with Sony’s goals for engaging player experiences.

    Sony Interactive Entertainment has revealed that they are joining forces with Bad Robot Games, the gaming division of J.J. Abrams’ production company, for their first internally developed game. This project is being led by Mike Booth, who is known for his work on Left 4 Dead.

    A New Venture for Bad Robot Games

    This collaboration marks a significant advance for Bad Robot Games, which has previously worked on various creative endeavors with companies like Valve, Epic Games, and Konami. The new game is said to be a four-player cooperative shooter and is currently under development for PC and PlayStation 5. Sony has assured that more information will be shared in the future.

    Bad Robot’s Gaming Aspirations

    Bad Robot, known for its work on major franchises such as Star Wars Episodes VII and IX, the Star Trek reboot trilogy, and the Cloverfield films, is now venturing into the gaming realm with this new project. This will be the studio’s first in-house title, and they are eager to establish a foothold in the gaming industry.

    The project is being overseen by Mike Booth, who took on the role of Chief Creative Officer at Bad Robot in 2020. Booth, a veteran from Valve, was instrumental in creating the acclaimed Left 4 Dead and its sequel.

    Channeling the Spirit of Left 4 Dead

    Left 4 Dead changed the landscape of cooperative first-person shooters with its thrilling zombie-survival gameplay. Bad Robot Games’ new title is expected to capture that same essence.

    Anna Sweet, CEO of Bad Robot Games, expressed her excitement in a statement:

    “Working with Sony Interactive Entertainment enables us to bring our new intellectual property to life, with a grand vision for this new universe. With PlayStation’s backing, we aim to provide an exciting and innovative experience that will be truly remarkable for players. I am thrilled that Mike Booth is leading the creative direction, building a cooperative adventure that will create lasting memories with friends.”

    Excitement from Sony’s Team

    Christian Svensson, Vice President and head of content ventures and strategic initiatives at SIE, also shared his enthusiasm, stating, “We are very impressed with the talent Bad Robot Games has gathered at their studio, and we are excited to partner with them to help produce and publish their upcoming game. Their distinctive creative approach and commitment to innovation across all interactive entertainment forms aligns perfectly with SIE’s goal of creating experiences that truly engage players. We are eagerly anticipating gamers entering the world they are developing.”

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  • Death Stranding 2 PC Release Nears with Latest Certification Update

    Death Stranding 2 PC Release Nears with Latest Certification Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game of the Year Contender: Death Stranding 2 is a top game released this year, competing for Game of the Year.
    2. Exclusive to PlayStation 5: Currently, Death Stranding 2 is only available on PlayStation 5, with no confirmed PC release date yet.
    3. Mature Content Rating: The game has an M (Mature) rating due to profanity, specific gameplay mechanics, and graphic cutscenes.
    4. Potential PC Release Announcement: The ESRB rating raises the possibility of a PC version announcement at The Game Awards on December 11.
    5. Possible Future Platforms: Fans hope for a PC release as early as February or March 2026, and there are speculations about an Xbox version in the future.

    As a strong contender for Game of the Year, Death Stranding 2 is clearly one of the top games released this year. Sadly, it is only available on the PlayStation 5. While the first game, Death Stranding, eventually made its way to PC, there’s still no information on when Death Stranding 2 might do the same. A recent rating from the ESRB hints that it could happen sooner than we thought.

    Mature Content Rating

    Death Stranding 2 has received an M (Mature) rating due to the presence of profanity in its dialogue. Additionally, players can choose for Sam Porter Bridges to relieve himself in specific locations (thankfully, not in front of other characters or in populated areas). There are also some graphic cutscenes sprinkled throughout to enhance the experience.

    Potential PC Release

    With the ESRB rating confirmed, there’s a possibility that a PC version of Death Stranding 2 could be announced at The Game Awards on December 11. The original Death Stranding was released as a console exclusive in November 2019, with its PC version launching in July 2020. If the pattern of an eight-month gap holds, we might see Death Stranding 2 on PC as early as February or March of 2026.

    Fans of the first Death Stranding will surely enjoy its sequel. Death Stranding 2 serves as a fantastic follow-up to an already amazing game, and the sooner it becomes available beyond PlayStation, the better it will be for everyone involved. There’s even a chance that Kojima could surprise us with an Xbox version, although that might take some time.

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