Tag: PS5

  • May Console and Accessory Sales Dip 13% in Investment

    May Console and Accessory Sales Dip 13% in Investment

    Key Takeaways

    1. Video game hardware sales decreased by 13% in May 2023 compared to May 2022, dropping from $197 million to $172 million.
    2. The PS5 remains the top-selling console, with a 3% increase in sales, while the Xbox Series and Nintendo Switch saw declines of 30% and 44%, respectively.
    3. Accessory sales also declined by 6%, from $165 million to $154 million, with the PS5 Dual Sense Wireless Controller being the best-selling accessory.
    4. Year-to-date sales for video game hardware dropped by 26%, and accessory sales saw a 12% decline.
    5. The ongoing sales drop suggests that current consoles may be nearing the end of their life cycle, indicating a potential need for new generation upgrades.

    The sales of video game consoles and accessories has been going down, according to new data from an analysis firm that reveals much lower sales figures for May compared to last year. The PS5 keeps its number one position among the consoles sold, however, the Xbox Series and the original Switch did not perform as well.

    Sales Data Overview

    This information comes from Circana through Mat Piscatella on BlueSky, showing that the spending on video game hardware decreased by 13% in May this year versus last year. The total dropped from $197 million to $172 million, continuing a trend observed over the past few months. Despite this, the PS5 (Buy on Amazon) experienced a 3% increase in sales, making it the top hardware seller in units and dollars. Conversely, sales for the Xbox Series consoles and the original Nintendo Switch plummeted by 30% and 44%, respectively.

    Accessories and Year-to-Date Sales

    When it comes to accessories, there was a 6% decline in sales, decreasing from $165 million to $154 million. The PS5 Dual Sense Wireless Controller in Midnight Black (Buy on Amazon) emerged as the top-selling accessory in both units and dollars.

    Circana also provided year-to-date (YTD) data but mentioned that January 2024 had a five-week tracking period while January 2025 was only four weeks. During this timeframe, video game hardware sales dropped by 26%, and accessory sales saw a 12% decline.

    Market Trends and Best-Selling Games

    This ongoing drop hints that the PS5, Xbox Series, and Nintendo Switch consoles may be reaching the end of their life cycle. The PS5 and Xbox Series were introduced in 2020 while the original Switch launched in 2017. Although there is a new Switch model available, the PS5 and Xbox Series appear to be due for a new generation upgrade.

    In terms of the best-selling video games for May, Elden Ring: Nightreign and Doom: The Dark Ages took the top two places, while The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, which was the best-seller the previous month, slipped to number four. There has also been a surge in sales for Star Wars: Battlefront II, which rose from 135 to number 12 in May due to recent buzz around the game.

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  • Play The Last of Us Part II Remastered in Chronological Order

    Play The Last of Us Part II Remastered in Chronological Order

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Last of Us Part II Remastered was released for PS5 in January 2024 and for PC in April 2024.
    2. A new free update allows players to experience the game in a Chronological mode for better narrative understanding.
    3. The developers recommend first-time players start with the original gameplay order.
    4. The update includes new trophies and two new skins for the No Return survival mode.
    5. Patch 2.1.0 for PS5 and Patch 1.5 for PC also provide various bug fixes and performance enhancements.

    The Last of Us Part II was launched in June 2020, and a remastered edition was released in January 2024 for the PS5. Following that, in April of the same year, The Last of Us Part II Remastered became available on PC through Steam and the Epic Games Store. The game’s narrative unfolds in a non-linear fashion, but Naughty Dog has introduced a new update that lets players experience Ellie’s adventure in a chronological order. This is aimed at attracting newcomers and enticing those who’ve already played the game.

    New Update Announcement

    As per the announcement on the PlayStation Blog, the free update for The Last of Us Part II Remastered now allows players on PS5 and PC to start the game in Chronological mode. The Naughty Dog team believes that this option will further enrich players’ understanding of the narrative in Part II. According to Jonathon Dornbush, the Editorial Content Manager, “Players will be able to see how Ellie being gifted a guitar flows so neatly into her learning to play, for example, while the journey through Seattle will showcase the fascinating parallels between Ellie and Abby’s crisscrossing journeys. You’ll see just how close they come into running into each other, how their actions impact each other, and more.”

    Playing Experience

    For those playing for the first time, the developers still suggest experiencing the game in its original form, but the Chronological mode is an available option. Once again, the team collaborated with Nixxes to facilitate this new experience for PC users. Additionally, players can earn new trophies in Chronological mode, and there are two new skins to use in the No Return survival mode.

    Patch Details

    The PS5 update is delivered through Patch 2.1.0, while the PC update is contained in Patch 1.5. Along with these new features, the update also includes various bug fixes and enhancements for performance.

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  • Yotei Leak Fails as Redditor Faces Mockery Before State of Play

    Yotei Leak Fails as Redditor Faces Mockery Before State of Play

    Key Takeaways

    1. Development footage of Ghost of Yotei was leaked by an individual who spied on Sucker Punch Studio’s headquarters from a hotel room.
    2. The leak was poorly timed, as Sony had announced an official gameplay showcase for the game on July 10, 2025.
    3. The Reddit post sharing the leak was quickly removed, and the individual faced mockery for their actions.
    4. Ethical concerns were raised about invading the studio’s privacy for game footage, with some users criticizing the behavior.
    5. Ghost of Yotei is a sequel to Ghost of Tsushima, featuring a female lead named Atsu, and is set for release on PS5 on October 2, 2025.

    Development footage of Ghost of Yotei has reportedly been leaked in a surprising way. An online detective took it upon themselves to sneak a look at Sucker Punch Studio’s Bellevue Headquarters to catch a glimpse of the game in progress. Rather than being celebrated as a hero, the sleuth found themselves facing mockery from many.

    The Leak’s Unfortunate Timing

    The individual shared their findings on Reddit, but the post was quickly removed. It featured them trying to look through the windows of Sucker Punch Studios, where they claimed to see what seemed to be Ghost of Yotei. The footage was captured from a hotel room that overlooked the studio’s location in City Center Plaza, Washington.

    Despite the redditor’s excitement in sharing the leak, they were met with disapproval from users across the platform. The timing of this amateur spying was especially criticized since Sony had already announced that the “official State of Play for Ghost of Yotei,” set for July 10, 2025, will showcase almost 20 minutes of gameplay. This event will be presented by Sucker Punch’s creative directors, Nate Fox and Jason Conell.

    Ethical Concerns Raised

    Alongside the laughter and teasing, one redditor pointed out the moral issues involved, saying, “No one deserves their privacy to be ruined just to give us glimpses of video games.”

    The irony in this whole scenario is hard to ignore. Ghost of Yotei was first revealed on September 25, 2024, with a mix of cutscenes and in-game footage. A follow-up trailer came out on April 23, 2025, giving more details about the narrative and the villains in Ghost of Yotei.

    Game Details and Release Date

    As of now, we know that Ghost of Yotei serves as a sequel to Ghost of Tsushima. The game is set in 1603, nearly three centuries after the events of the original title. Unlike Jin Sakai, the new game features a female lead, Atsu, who wears the “Ghost mask” and embarks on a mission for revenge in the area around Mount Yotei, which is now called Hokkaido.

    Ghost of Yotei is planned for an exclusive PS5 launch on October 2, 2025. Sony is also considering a PC version of the game, which may come out in late 2026, according to their current timeline for PlayStation PC releases.

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  • Death Stranding 2 Expected to Sell 1.4M Copies by June

    Death Stranding 2 Expected to Sell 1.4M Copies by June

    Key Takeaways

    1. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach had a strong start in the UK but saw a 66% drop in launch sales compared to the original game.
    2. Ampere projects global sales of 1.4 million copies for Death Stranding 2 by the end of June, indicating reliance on digital purchases.
    3. Sales figures for PS5 titles are not disclosed by Sony, leading to reliance on estimates from companies like Ampere.
    4. The digital gaming market has grown significantly since the first game’s launch, with the sequel being a top seller on the PS Store in North America.
    5. A Dutch consumer protection agency is taking legal action against Sony for alleged monopolistic behavior regarding digital game sales.

    Some gamers have voiced worries after the first sales figures for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach were revealed. In the UK, the project by Hideo Kojima led the sales charts, yet its launch sales fell by 66% compared to the previous game. It’s worth noting that the data only counted physical disc sales. Ampere has now projected that by the end of June, Death Stranding 2 is expected to have sold 1.4 million copies globally. These numbers indicate a strong start, but they also highlight how many new PS5 titles rely heavily on digital purchases.

    Caution Advised

    When the UK sales figures for Death Stranding 2 appeared, Christopher Dring from The Game Business recommended taking a careful approach. Since the first Death Stranding launched in 2019, the appeal of digital gaming has grown immensely. Indeed, North American players have just discovered that the sequel was the top seller in June on the PS Store. Even though the standard edition came out on June 26th, it’s already sitting at fourth place in Sony’s UK rankings.

    Sales Numbers Unavailable

    Sadly, Sony does not disclose exact sales figures for PS5 titles on its platform. This leaves companies like Ampere to rely on other indicators for their estimates. The original Death Stranding achieved 5 million sales by July 2021, but this was after the PC version was released. Unless there’s an unexpected drop, the new post-apocalyptic action-adventure game seems to be on a bright path.

    Digital vs. Physical

    Although both physical standard and collector’s editions are on the market, the ease of buying from the PS Store is alluring. However, the rise of the digital marketplace has not been without its issues. A Dutch consumer protection agency has recently taken legal action against Sony, claiming they are engaging in monopolistic behavior. The agency is pushing for Sony to permit other retailers to offer digital PS5 games on the console. Meanwhile, collectors of games have pointed out that it’s often simpler to find significant discounts on disc versions at retail stores.

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    Death Stranding 2 Expected to Sell 1.4M Copies by June
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  • Death Stranding 2 Map Bug Causes PS5 Overheating Issues

    Death Stranding 2 Map Bug Causes PS5 Overheating Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Favorable Reception: “Death Stranding 2: On the Beach” launched on June 26 with a Metacritic score of 90 and positive reviews from critics.

    2. Overheating Concerns: Some PS5 consoles are experiencing overheating warnings, particularly when accessing the map screen during gameplay.

    3. User Reports: Several players have reported similar overheating issues, with fans running at maximum speed when on the map, while regular gameplay remains unaffected.

    4. Affected Consoles: The overheating issue mainly impacts the standard PS5 model, with PS5 Pro users reporting increased fan noise but no overheating warnings.

    5. Patch Status: A recent game patch (version 1.04) was released, but it does not address the overheating problem; players are advised to wait for a future update from Kojima Productions.

    Death Stranding 2: On the Beach (currently priced at $69 on Amazon) has received mostly favorable feedback since its launch on June 26. This PlayStation 5-exclusive title boasts an impressive Metacritic score of 90, and its creator, Hideo Kojima, has shared his delight over the reviews from critics.

    Overheating Issues

    While the game is flying off the shelves on PS5, a Reddit user named u/mudman2018 has raised concerns about some PS5 consoles overheating when running the game. According to the Reddit post,

    “As soon as I pause the game and the map screen comes up, the fan suddenly goes into overdrive and I get an overheat warning.”

    The user adds that everything else runs just fine, even during extended gaming sessions. However, when the map is accessed and a route is planned, the fan goes wild and triggers an overheating alert.

    User Experiences

    Other users have also shared similar issues, with one even posting a video showing how the fans spin up to maximum speed when on the map screen. This problem seems to only occur when accessing the map, as the fans usually function normally during regular gameplay. Some players have mentioned that if they linger too long on the map screen, they too receive overheating warnings.

    The exact reason this issue arises only on the map screen is still unknown. Possible explanations might include an uncapped framerate or a memory leak that occurs while navigating the map.

    Affected Consoles

    The issue appears to mainly impact the standard PS5 model. Users with the PS5 Pro have not reported overheating warnings but have noticed increased fan noise and higher temperatures while playing.

    A recent patch, version 1.04, was released without any accompanying changelog and does not seem to address this overheating issue. If you find yourself affected by this bug, your best bet is to wait for Kojima Productions to recognize the issue and issue a new patch.

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  • Get Free PlayStation Plus Access for a Limited Time

    Get Free PlayStation Plus Access for a Limited Time

    Key Takeaways

    1. PlayStation Plus is celebrating its 15th anniversary with free online gaming for everyone from June 28 to June 29.
    2. PlayStation Plus is essential for online gaming, with most titles requiring a subscription except for some free games like Fortnite and Genshin Impact.
    3. There are three subscription plans: PlayStation Plus Extra, Premium, and Essential, each offering different benefits and costs.
    4. Premium members can play WWE 2K25 and Monster Hunter Wilds for free during the promotion.
    5. Other subscribers can enjoy significant discounts on games like Sniper Elite: Resistance, Sid Meier’s Civilization® VII, and Star Wars Outlaws.

    Recently, PlayStation has given exciting news for all its PlayStation Plus members. Free games for July have been revealed, featuring some well-known titles. But there’s more to it! In honor of the 15th anniversary of this beloved service, multiplayer gaming will be available for free to everyone. Just keep in mind, this offer lasts only for a short while.

    Importance of PlayStation Plus

    Understanding PlayStation Plus is key, as it is crucial for playing online with friends or gamers around the world. Most games on the PlayStation Store require a subscription to access their online options. There are a few exceptions like Fortnite and Genshin Impact, which don’t need a subscription.

    Different Subscription Options

    There are several subscription plans to choose from, including PlayStation Plus Extra, Premium, and Essential. Each plan provides different advantages and the costs vary as well.

    If you own a PlayStation account and have a PS4 or PS5, there’s a special treat waiting for you for a limited time. To mark 15 years of PlayStation Plus, Sony is allowing free online gaming from June 28 at 12:01 a.m. until June 29 at 11:59 p.m.

    Take Advantage of This Offer

    If this fantastic offer catches your eye, make sure to seize the opportunity! Plus, it’s a great chance to explore all the features this service has to offer. Don’t forget about the numerous online games you can dive into, letting you explore new realms and tackle different challenges while having a blast.

    On top of that, if you have a PlayStation Plus Premium membership, you can play WWE 2K25 and Monster Hunter Wilds for free. If you’re subscribed to a different plan, don’t worry! Sniper Elite: Resistance, Sid Meier’s Civilization® VII, and Star Wars Outlaws are all part of significant discounts that you shouldn’t miss out on.

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  • Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet Features Deep RPG Progression

    Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet Features Deep RPG Progression

    Key Takeaways

    1. Naughty Dog is developing a new game titled Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, revealed at The Game Awards last year.
    2. The game is expected to feature a genuine RPG progression system, which would be a first for the studio.
    3. The gameplay is described as having the “deepest gameplay in Naughty Dog’s history,” with RPG elements like equipment upgrades and skill unlocks.
    4. The story follows Jordan A. Mun, a bounty hunter stranded on a mysterious planet, aiming to be the first to leave its orbit in over 600 years.
    5. Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet is designed for the PS5, but no release date has been announced yet.

    Naughty Dog is currently developing a new game titled Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. It was initially revealed at The Game Awards last year. While there have been rumors about other canceled projects from the studio, this one appears to be progressing well. Details about the game are sparse, but recent leaks suggest it might incorporate a genuine RPG progression system, marking a first for Naughty Dog.

    Exciting Gameplay Features

    The studio claims that this game will have the “deepest gameplay in Naughty Dog’s history,” hinting at a system reminiscent of RPGs. Recently, a Reddit user named 22Seres discovered a LinkedIn profile of a designer who was with Naughty Dog from August 2022 until February 2024. This profile mentioned an “RPG progression system on Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet.” This information, alongside Naughty Dog’s own descriptions, indicates that players can expect RPG features such as equipment upgrades and skill unlocks.

    RPG Elements Explained

    It’s important to note that the term “RPG progression system” could imply various meanings and might not strictly refer to a conventional RPG. Some users have pointed out that the supplements system in The Last of Us served as an RPG feature by enhancing Joel’s skills. Still, it seems that Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet is shaping up to be more expansive than the more linear narratives of previous Naughty Dog AAA games.

    The Story Unfolds

    The plot centers around Jordan A. Mun, a bounty hunter who finds herself stranded on a remote and enigmatic planet. As described officially, “Jordan will have to use all her skills and wits if she hopes to be the first person in over 600 years to leave its orbit.” The game is being designed for the PS5, but so far, no release date has been announced.

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  • Death Stranding 2 Early Reviews: Highly Positive Feedback

    Death Stranding 2 Early Reviews: Highly Positive Feedback

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date: Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is set to launch on June 26, 2025, with early access starting on June 24 for Digital Deluxe Edition buyers.

    2. Positive Early Impressions: Early reviews highlight the game as more endearing and enjoyable than the first installment, with significant praise for its exploration of human connections.

    3. High Scores: Kakuchopurei rated the game 90/100, a notable improvement from their low score of 40/100 for the original. JeuxVideo scored it 17/20, indicating strong positive reception.

    4. Gameplay Enhancements: Reviewers noted that the game’s progression is more generous and stimulating, with effective action-infiltration segments enhancing the gameplay experience.

    5. Exclusive Platform: The game is currently exclusive to the PS5, attracting attention as a potential masterpiece, though it may not appeal to everyone.

    The follow-up to the 2019 Kojima title Death Stranding is set to launch on June 26, 2025, but some early critiques have already surfaced. Early impressions suggest that Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is receiving substantial acclaim, even from outlets that were not fans of the first game. Currently, the game is exclusive to the PS5, and players who opt for the Digital Deluxe Edition will enjoy a 48-hour head start.

    Early Reviews

    Kakuchopurei and JeuxVideo (a French publication) have shared their initial thoughts on Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. Without giving away any spoilers, Kakuchopurei describes the sequel as “more endearing” than its predecessor, emphasizing its bold exploration of human connections and its unique world-building. They also mention that the tools provided make the adventure more enjoyable and unforgettable. The game received a score of 90/100 from them, which is quite a turnaround since they rated the original a low 40/100.

    Reception Details

    JeuxVideo, which first posted their review in French, translates to a description of the game as a “masterpiece on PS5, but not for everyone.” The review continues by highlighting that the game’s progression feels more “generous and stimulating than before,” and the action-infiltration segments complement the engaging gameplay loop effectively. The game earned a score of 17/20 from their editor. Interestingly, JeuxVideo was also favorable towards the original, giving it an even higher rating than the sequel.

    Both sources released their critiques after around 35 to 40 hours of gameplay. This is promising news for the highly anticipated title that Kojima aimed to be polarizing. Early access will begin on June 24, giving players a 48-hour advantage before the official launch on June 26.

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  • Sony Unveils New Details on PS6 and Cloud Gaming Features

    Sony Unveils New Details on PS6 and Cloud Gaming Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony is preparing for the future of PlayStation as the PS5 approaches its five-year mark, with the PS6 on the horizon.
    2. Cloud gaming is becoming increasingly important, but challenges such as network stability and higher costs still exist.
    3. The majority of PS5 and PS5 Pro users prefer local gameplay over cloud options, indicating a strong demand for traditional gaming experiences.
    4. Sony is exploring new ways for gamers to access their content and services, though specifics about the PS6 remain unclear.
    5. Future developments in cloud gaming may offer additional options for players, despite it not being the main focus currently.

    With a large number of gamers now owning a PS5, Sony is getting ready for the ongoing success of these devices. In just a few months, this gaming console will turn five years old. Although each version typically lasts around seven to eight years, the future of PlayStation raises several questions. Recently, the Japanese company shared some insights about the PS6 that should catch the attention of many gamers.

    Insights on Cloud Gaming

    At a business meeting last week, Hideaki Nishino, the CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, revealed some details about the future of PlayStation. He specifically highlighted the significance of cloud gaming. This feature is quickly becoming a crucial aspect of the gaming industry, making us ponder its potential dominance on the PS6. However, Hideaki Nishino mentioned that things could shift: “Cloud streaming is advancing well from a technical perspective, as we have shown with [our] products, but the overall network stability is beyond our control. Additionally, the higher cost per gameplay compared to the traditional console model is still a hurdle.”

    Preferences of Gamers

    He also noted that the majority of PS5 and PS5 Pro users prefer local gameplay: “Cloud gaming is increasingly providing an extra option for players to access content, but we believe that most players still want to enjoy gaming through local execution without relying on network conditions. And I think PS5 and PS5 Pro have confirmed this idea.”

    Thus, he is considering a new and more effective way for gamers to utilize the services and content offered by Sony, while being vague about the future of this upcoming console: “While we can’t provide more details at this moment, the future of the platform is very important to us. We are dedicated to finding a new and improved way for players to engage with our content and services.” So, even if cloud gaming isn’t a main focus, new possibilities might be on the horizon.

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  • John Marston Voice Actor Teases Red Dead Redemption 2 for Switch 2

    John Marston Voice Actor Teases Red Dead Redemption 2 for Switch 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. There are hints about Red Dead Redemption 2 possibly coming to the Switch 2.
    2. Voice actor Rob Wiethoff teased an exciting announcement related to the game but did not share details.
    3. A major announcement is expected between June 15 and June 20, likely about the Switch 2 version and next-gen upgrades for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.
    4. Leaker Nate the Hate suggested the Switch 2 version could be released later this year, possibly in late summer or early fall.
    5. Rockstar has not officially confirmed any details about the Switch 2 version despite ongoing speculation.

    There have been whispers and speculation about Red Dead Redemption 2 potentially arriving on the Switch 2 for quite some time. While Rockstar has remained silent on the matter, one of the voice actors seems to be dropping hints about an announcement that might be just around the corner. Alongside the Switch 2 edition, there’s also anticipation for a next-gen upgrade for both the PS5 and Xbox Series consoles.

    Excited Voice Actor

    During a livestream dedicated to Red Dead Redemption, Rob Wiethoff, who voices John Marston, expressed his enthusiasm for a forthcoming announcement without revealing too much. He stated, “I’ve got such exciting news, I can’t share it with you right now and its absolutely killing me.” Wiethoff further mentioned, “..but I truly cannot think about anything else especially playing this game, I can’t think of anything else.”

    Major Announcement Coming Soon

    While Wiethoff did not provide specific details, he did suggest that although it might not happen on June 15, a significant announcement is expected before Friday, June 20. Many believe this will pertain to the Switch 2 version of Red Dead Redemption 2. Additionally, Rockstar may unveil the next-gen upgrade for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.

    Earlier in May, the well-known leaker Nate the Hate also hinted at an announcement on the horizon, stating that the Nintendo Switch 2 version of the game would be released “later this year.” He speculated that the launch could fall within the late-summer to early-fall timeframe.

    Rockstar’s Silence

    As previously mentioned, Rockstar has yet to disclose any information regarding the Switch 2 version of Red Dead Redemption 2. In April, during discussions about the initial game lineup for the console, Red Dead Redemption 2 was rumored to be included in the reveal, and since then, even more rumors have emerged.

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