https://www.gameinformer.com/ From the latest company acquisition to exciting game reveals and announcements, Game Informer covers the latest, breaking news in the industry. en https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/05/17/five-nights-at-freddys-2-gets-december-2025-premiere-date <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/17/16ec223f/five-nights-at-freddy-1-movie.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Five Nights At Freddy's 2 movie release date" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p><em>Five Nights At Freddy’s 2</em>, the sequel to the 2023 film adaptation of the popular horror game, has a premiere date. Freddy Fazbear and friends will return to the big screen on December 5, 2025.</p> <p>As reported by <em><a href="https://variety.com/2024/film/news/five-nights-at-freddys-2-release-date-december-2025-1236006597/">Variety</a></em>, Blumhouse Productions announced the date alongside a slate of other upcoming films, including <em>M3GAN 2.0</em> and <em>The Black Phone 2</em>. It's not surprising to see <em>Five Nights At Freddy’s</em> getting a follow-up. It simultaneously premiered in theaters and on Peacock on October 27, 2023, and still managed to be a massive box office success. Grossing $297 million globally, it became the year's highest-grossing horror film, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2023/11/27/five-nights-at-freddys-continues-box-office-success-becomes-highest">Blumhouse’s highest-grossing film ever</a>, and the most-watched movie on Peacock for five straight days. </p> <p>The tagline<i> </i>for <i>Five Nights At Freddy's 2 </i>reads<i>,</i> "Anyone can survive five nights. This time, there will be no second chances." The sequel’s cast has not been announced, but the original starred Josh Hutchinson and included Matthew Lillard, Elizabeth Lail, Mary Stuart Masterson, and Piper Rubio. Director Emma Tammi is returning to direct the sequel, with FNAF creator Scott Cawthorn and Blumhouse founder Jason Blum once again assuming producer roles. </p> <p><em>FNAF 2</em> won't be the only video game film arriving in 2025. <em>Mortal Kombat 2</em>, the sequel to the 2021 reboot film, was <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/15/mortal-kombat-2-movie-gets-october-2025-release-date">recently confirmed</a> to release in October of that year. </p> Fri, 17 May 2024 13:51:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 122648 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/17/fallout-is-coming-to-fortnite <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/17/3e041c79/fallout-x-fortnite.jpeg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>It's a great time to be a Fallout fan, thanks to its <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="77931a3c-3f80-4855-9ad5-3f76e5fbcb32" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/2024/04/10/the-fallout-tv-show-is-good-season-1-review">excellent Amazon Prime series</a> and the <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="90f9957b-0269-4766-8f9c-ad4a933dbbf4" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/04/25/fallout-4-gets-a-next-gen-update-today-heres-what-to-expect">next-gen update for Fallout 4</a>. But it seems like the fallout from this recent boom in popularity hasn't died down quite yet. Thanks to a teaser shared on Fortnite's official social media pages, we know that Fallout will be coming to Fortnite pretty soon</p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="qme" xml:lang="qme"><a href="https://t.co/AKjFXVnHST">pic.twitter.com/AKjFXVnHST</a></p> — Fortnite (@FortniteGame) <a href="https://twitter.com/FortniteGame/status/1791499072789979575?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>The teaser image shows power armor in a cloud of orange dust, accompanied by what appears to be some sort of industrial building. Other than that, there's not much to go on, but we can make educated guesses. For one, Fortnite's current season will end on May 24, so this is the perfect time to tease the skins that might be coming in the next battle pass. And if it's anything like the recent <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="f5b5da80-dc07-4895-9626-9cdca5c3d817" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/04/09/avatar-the-last-airbender-skins-now-available-in-fortnite">Avatar: The Last Airbender</a> and <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="ef3902aa-9994-4d48-bfe5-4dd44b9364c8" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/04/15/fortnites-next-star-wars-crossover-will-span-lego-festival-and-battle-royale-modes">Star Wars crossovers</a>, we might see Fallout-themed mechanics or areas appear on the battle royale map itself.</p> <p>It will almost certainly involve some sort of cosmetic pack as well, which could include characters from the games, the Amazon Prime show, or both. Thanks to the teaser, we know power armor will be making an appearance, but it's unclear whether it will be an item to equip in-game or a skin that can be unlocked or purchased.</p> <p>For more Fortnite news, read about its recent crossover with <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/04/22/billie-eilish-is-headlining-fortnite-festival-season-3">Billie Eilish</a>, its decision to <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/04/23/fortnite-adds-new-setting-to-hide-confrontational-emotes">allow players to block certain emotes</a>, and its <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/02/07/disney-and-epic-games-announce-partnership-for-games-and-entertainment-universe">huge and mysterious collaboration with Disney</a>.</p> <p><em>What are you hoping to see included in this crossover? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Fri, 17 May 2024 11:53:00 CDT Charles Harte 122647 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/17/ea-sports-college-football-25-shows-off-school-spirit-in-first-full-trailer-and <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/17/aa29a4ef/cfb25_1.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="EA Sports College Football 25 trailer" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Yesterday, EA Sports College Football 25’s <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/16/ea-sports-college-football-25-arrives-in-july-cover-athletes-and-editions-revealed">cover athletes and release date were revealed</a>. Today, the game’s first full trailer provides the look at it in action. </p> <p>The trailer shows that EA is seemingly going all out to replicate the pomp and passion of college football, with over-the-top team entrances, marching band performances, and mascots galore. It remains to be seen how fun or different the on-field action is compared to its Madden counterpart, but the game at least seems to capture the school spirit. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/W1QDaXkufCo" width="640"></iframe> <p>EA also released a batch of new screenshots, which you can view in this gallery. </p> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/17/1aa67f39/cfb25_9.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/17/b95cadc6/cfb25_7.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/17/fbf423bf/cfb25_6.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/17/cd38c036/cfb25_8.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/17/e500d293/cfb25_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/17/8257cf6c/cfb25_4.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/17/ba110020/cfb25_5.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/17/aa29a4ef/cfb25_1.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/17/2766fb9b/cfb25_3.jpg'></figure></section>   <p>EA Sports College Football 25 launches on July 19 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. You can learn more about its various editions, pricing, and features <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/16/ea-sports-college-football-25-arrives-in-july-cover-athletes-and-editions-revealed">here</a>. </p> Fri, 17 May 2024 10:26:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 122646 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/17/hades-iis-first-patch-changes-how-sprint-and-resource-collecting-works <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/17/5190b32c/hades-2-patch-1.jpeg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Hades II has taken the gaming world by storm, and I'm not just saying that because it's the subject of <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/magazine">our current cover story</a>. But while many have been surprised by the sheer volume of content available so far, it's still in Early Access, so the team at Supergiant will be updating and patching it for the foreseeable future. The first of those patches came today, and it adds a few small quality-of-life improvements.</p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en" xml:lang="en">Our first Early Access patch for Hades II is out now on Steam and the Epic Games Store!! We're very grateful for all the feedback so far, which inspired this first set of targeted improvements and fixes.<br /><br /> 🌒Full Patch Notes: <a href="https://t.co/HDQRCANrv1">https://t.co/HDQRCANrv1</a> <a href="https://t.co/RJO0ayFb8c">pic.twitter.com/RJO0ayFb8c</a></p> — Supergiant Games (@SupergiantGames) <a href="https://twitter.com/SupergiantGames/status/1791148077283410206?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>The first change comes to the sprint mechanic, a feature the original Hades did not have. By holding the dash button, Melinoë will begin to run, making it easier to avoid enemy attacks or cross larger lengths of the map. Several boons also only activate while sprinting, so it's a crucial mechanic for Supergiant to get right. After this first patch, sprinting is faster and it's easier to turn, and related boons have been re-balanced accordingly. Additionally, The Swift Runner upgrade at the Altar of Ashes (which increases sprint speed by 20%) now makes your dash immediately start, so you can escape danger more reliably.</p> <p>The patch also does a minor overhaul of the resource collection system. As you progress, you'll unlock different tools, like the pickaxe and the shovel, to harvest different types of materials, like minerals and seeds. Before the patch, choosing a tool before a run meant you could only harvest those specific resources until you returned to the crossroads. If you picked up a shovel and encountered a fishing spot, you were out of luck. Now, players can harvest any resource they encounter in a run, but selecting a certain tool just makes its corresponding resource much more likely to appear. Now, a shovel-wielding Melinoë can attempt to catch any fish she comes across, but it's much less likely she encounters one in the first place.</p> <p>The patch also includes a number of other smaller fixes, <a href="https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1145350?emclan=103582791472836561&emgid=4175477072263852699">which you can read in their entirety here</a>. Just be wary before unveiling those spoiler tags if you haven't made it through the bulk of the game, as they reveal the existence of certain characters or locations you likely haven't encountered yet.</p> <p>For more Hades 2, <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="b435a0ab-2d81-45ef-aec6-d16f9dedb4ac" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/hades2">check out our coverage hub</a>, which includes a <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="0fc34870-f55c-485a-ba81-272f651667d9" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/video-interview/2024/05/08/supergiant-answers-78-rapid-fire-questions-about-hades-ii">rapid-fire interview</a> with the developers, <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="1bfad031-00ac-4a05-b2f6-80e81b9c4616" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive-video/2024/05/14/exclusive-video-supergiant-games-office-tour">a tour of Supergiant Games' studio</a>, and our <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="5c390ee9-807c-4b1d-9c1e-8c9972eb11bb" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/cover-reveal/2024/05/06/cover-reveal-the-making-of-hades-ii">in-depth cover story detailing the making of the game</a>.</p> Fri, 17 May 2024 09:50:00 CDT Charles Harte 122645 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/17/despite-speculation-microsoft-will-reportedly-launch-this-years-call-of-duty-on <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2021/05/07/780f985b/codbocw.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Call of Duty Black Ops Gulf War Game Pass Xbox Microsoft" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Microsoft is reportedly planning to launch this year's Call of Duty on its Xbox Game Pass subscription service, according to <a href="https://www.wsj.com/tech/microsoft-call-of-duty-game-pass-53e8930c"><em>The Wall Stree Journal</em></a>. This follows reports in previous weeks indicating <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/09/xbox-reportedly-debating-putting-call-of-duty-on-game-pass-alongside-price-hike">Microsoft and Xbox were mulling over whether or not to launch the next iteration</a> in the franchise on Game Pass, out of fear it might hurt sales. </p> <p><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/10/13/microsoft-has-officially-acquired-activision-blizzard-for-69-billion">After acquiring Activision Blizzard for a colossal $69 billion last year</a>, fans and analysts have speculated about how Microsoft will handle the Call of Duty franchise moving forward. It will obviously be a big draw for Xbox Game Pass, pulling in new subscribers, but most every year, the new Call of Duty is the best-selling game of the year – save for last year, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/08/hogwarts-legacy-has-sold-more-than-22-million-copies-in-less-than-a-year#:~:text=Hogwarts%20Legacy%20Has%20Sold%20More,Than%20A%20Year%20%2D%20Game%20Informer">where Hogwarts Legacy took that crown</a> – and a Game Pass launch could affect those sales numbers. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UtTd3_2WjEg" width="640"></iframe> <p>However, this new report from <em>The Wall Street Journal </em>seemingly clears the air around that topic. </p> <p>"Microsoft plans a major shake up of its video game sales strategy by releasing the coming installment of Call of Duty to its subscription service instead of the longtime, lucrative approach of only selling it a la carte," the story reads. </p> <p>Of course, things could change so we'll see what happens. It's likely we'll be learning what the next Call of Duty game is next month as part of the <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/08/the-2024-summer-gaming-showcase-schedule">gaming showcase summer</a> that includes <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/16/summer-game-fest-to-have-more-than-55-studios-and-publishers-including-playstation">Summer Game Fest</a>, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/04/03/ubisoft-forward-confirmed-for-june-same-week-as-summer-game-fest">Ubisoft Forward</a>, and an <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/04/30/xbox-games-showcase-announced-for-june-followed-by-a-secret-direct-for-a-beloved">Xbox Games Showcase followed by a secret direct</a> that is probably focused on Call of Duty.</p> <p><em>[Source: <a href="https://www.wsj.com/tech/microsoft-call-of-duty-game-pass-53e8930c">The Wall Street Journal</a>]</em></p> <p><em>What setting do you hope the next Call of Duty takes place in? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Fri, 17 May 2024 09:10:19 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122643 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/17/2k-will-reveal-the-next-iteration-of-one-of-its-biggest-and-most-beloved-franchises <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/prod-media.gameinformer.com/styles/body_default/s3/2020/05/13/7c3d1230/mafiadepromo.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Mafia BioShock Borderlands New 2K Franchise Iteration Game" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>2K will reveal the next iteration of one of its biggest franchises at Summer Game Fest. Fans online are already speculating what it could be, considering some of 2K's biggest franchises are prime for a new game. </p> <p>As for when to expect this new game, the official SGF X (formerly Twitter) account says it will be announced on June 7, during the <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/03/13/this-years-summer-game-fest-streams-live-on-june-7">Summer Game Fest</a> livestream that begins at 2 p.m. PT/5 p.m. ET. That's less than a month away so we don't have to speculate too long on what this mystery iteration could be. </p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">2K plans to reveal the next iteration in one of 2K's biggest and most beloved franchises at <a href="https://twitter.com/summergamefest?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SummerGameFest</a> on Friday, June 7. <a href="https://t.co/1vyFXE2N4z">pic.twitter.com/1vyFXE2N4z</a></p> — Summer Game Fest (@summergamefest) <a href="https://twitter.com/summergamefest/status/1791201250521825718?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>While there are plenty of 2K franchises that fit the bill, our eyes are on three franchises: Borderlands, Mafia, and BioShock. </p> <p>The last mainline Borderlands entry – Borderlands 3 – hit PlayStation, Xbox, and PC in 2019, and with the <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/02/21/the-borderlands-movies-first-trailer-looks-as-ridiculous-as-the-games#:~:text=Borderlands%20hits%20theaters%20on%20August%209.&text=Marcus%20is%20an%20avid%20gamer,cartoons%20and%20obscure%20childhood%20references.">live-action <em>Borderlands </em>movie hitting theaters this August</a>, a new game would make sense. However, we did just get <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/new-tales-from-the-borderlands/forgettable-story-unforgettable-characters">New Tales From The Borderlands</a> in 2022, if you're looking for something to play through in that universe. </p> <p>On the Mafia front, the last mainline entry was <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/mafia_iii/b/xboxone/archive/2016/10/12/mafia-iii-review.aspx">Mafia III</a> in 2016, although 2K released <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/mafia-definitive-edition/mafia-definitive-edition-review-loyal-to-a-fault">Mafia: Definitive Edition</a> – a remake – in 2020. And <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/08/29/the-next-mafia-game-is-in-development">we know the next Mafia game is in development</a>, too, so it might be time for an announcement. </p> <p>BioShock has been dormant since <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/bioshock_infinite/b/pc/archive/2013/03/25/enjoying-the-view-from-above.aspx">BioShock Infinite</a> in 2013, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/bioshock-the-collection">unless you count the 2016 remasters</a>, and we know <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2019/12/09/2k-announces-new-studio-for-the-next-bioshock">2K created Cloud Chamber in 2019</a> to work on the next entry in the franchise. It's been almost five years since then, so SGF seems like a great moment to announce the next BioShock. Speaking of, here's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/01/03/what-we-want-from-bioshock-4">what we want in a BioShock 4</a>. </p> <p>SGF returns to Los Angeles next month, with the live showcase happening on June 7. For more, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/16/summer-game-fest-to-have-more-than-55-studios-and-publishers-including-playstation">check out some of the studios, publishers, and partners to be featured during the event</a>, and then check out <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/08/the-2024-summer-gaming-showcase-schedule"><em>Game Informer's </em>summer gaming showcase schedule</a>. </p> <p><em>What do you think this new iteration will be? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Fri, 17 May 2024 07:54:00 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122642 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/16/grand-theft-auto-vi-targeting-fall-2025-release-window <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2023/12/04/c04beab6/gta6_02.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Grand Theft Auto VI Fall 2025 release window" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Grand Theft Auto VI's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/12/04/grand-theft-auto-vi-revealed-with-first-official-trailer-alongside-2025-release">reveal last December</a> sent fans into a tizzy, but its then-distant 2025 release window immediately tempered that excitement. While the launch seemed more in reach now that we’re nearly midway through 2024, it appears we’ll have to wait another full year before playing it.</p> <p>Publisher Take-Two released its <a href="https://ir.take2games.com/static-files/e357ad06-0762-4e80-b80c-e3869252fdfe">2024 year-end financial report</a> today (thanks, <em><a href="https://www.pcgamer.com/games/grand-theft-auto/grand-theft-auto-6-release-window-narrowed-to-fall-2025-but-theres-still-no-pc-launch-date-confirmed/?utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=socialflow&utm_source=twitter.com">PC Gamer</a></em>), in which it states that Rockstar is targeting a Fall 2025 release window for GTA VI. This timing is reiterated in a calendar of the publisher’s upcoming releases, posted below.</p> <a class="linkoriginal" data-featherlight="image" href=""> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/16/335cd20e/take_two_calendar_1.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt="" class="image-style-body-default" /> </a> Click to enlarge <p>Regarding GTA VI, Take-Two states, “We are highly confident that Rockstar Games will deliver an unparalleled entertainment experience, and our expectations for the commercial impact of the title continue to increase.” The game is slated to release for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. A PC version has <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/12/04/grand-theft-auto-vi-ps5-and-xbox-series-xs-release-confirmed-for-2025-no-mention-of">yet to be mentioned.</a> </p> <p>Grand Theft Auto VI takes players to a modern-day Vice City (the franchise's parody of Miami, FL) and stars two protagonists, a female inmate named Lucia and her still-unnamed criminal male partner. To say anticipation is high would be an understatement; the premiere trailer garnered over <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/12/06/grand-theft-auto-vi-trailer-surpasses-100-million-views-breaks-record-for-most">100 million views in only 24 hours</a>, breaking a YouTube record. </p> <p>As we continue the long wait for Grand Theft Auto VI’s launch, check out our video of<em> Game Informer</em>’s two resident <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/humor/2023/12/05/watch-two-florida-men-analyze-the-grand-theft-auto-vi-trailer">Florida Men reacting to the debut trailer</a>. You can also read about Take-Two's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/02/take-two-closes-rollerdrome-and-kerbal-space-program-2-studios-while-majority-of">recent closure</a> of developers Roll7 (Rollerdrome, OlliOlli World) and Intercept Games (Kerbal Space Program 2).</p> Thu, 16 May 2024 16:36:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 122641 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/16/fae-farm-dauntless-studio-phoenix-labs-lays-off-staff-cancels-in-development-games <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2023/06/07/5ddf855c/fae_farm_-_farming_magic_1.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Fae Farm Dauntless Developer Phoenix Lab Layoffs 100 Employees Cancel Games" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Phoenix Labs, the developer behind last year's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/fae-farm">Fae Farm</a> and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/dauntless">Dauntless</a>, has laid off staff and canceled in-development games as part of a restructuring at the studio. <em>Polygon's </em><a href="https://x.com/sweetpotatoes/status/1791158439684587999">Nicole Carpenter</a> is reporting on X (formerly Twitter) that more than 100 people at Phoenix Labs were laid off. </p> <p>Shortly after Carpenter reported that, Phoenix Labs released the following <a href="https://x.com/sweetpotatoes/status/1791161114538987820">statement</a>: </p> "Today is an incredibly difficult day. After a long period of evaluating how to navigate our economic structure, we have had to significantly restructure the company to pave a path for a strong future. We are reorganizing Phoenix Labs to focus on our best-in-class live service titles, Dauntless and Fae Farm, and serving their communities.  "This unfortunately means canceling work on all other projects at the studio, which will impact many of our colleagues immediately. We are giving notices to everyone whose roles are affected. This restructure has not come easily, and truly has been the last resort to ensure Phoenix Labs can survive, and thrive in the long term. It's impossible to put into words how deeply we value every talented individual who have contributed their hard work and passion to every project at our studio.  "We are doing all we can to help our departing team members in this interim period and encourage any studios looking for incredible talent to speak with the one-of-a-kind people that have been a part of Phoenix Labs' journey."  <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BF5C0KohZHI" width="640"></iframe> <p>Phoenix Labs released its latest game, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/09/13/dauntless-developer-unveils-co-op-fantasy-life-sim-fae-farm">Fae Farm</a>, back in September, and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/dauntless/a-prosaic-peak">Dauntless</a> before that in 2019. </p> <p>These layoffs join a string of other disheartening 2024 layoffs and closures, which now total more than 10,000 in just the first five months of the year. </p> <p>Square Enix announced earlier this week <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/13/square-enix-will-begin-layoffs-as-part-of-structural-reforms-this-week">it will begin layoffs as part of "structural reforms," starting this week</a>. </p> <p>Earlier this month, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/07/xbox-is-shutting-down-arkane-austin-tango-gameworks-and-more">Xbox closed four Bethesda studios</a>, including Hi-Fi Rush developer Tango Gameworks and Redfall studio Arkane Austin. <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/02/take-two-closes-rollerdrome-and-kerbal-space-program-2-studios-while-majority-of">Take-Two Interactive closed Rollerdrome studio Roll7 and Kerbal Space Program 2 studio Intercept Games</a> alongside major layoffs to its indie-publisher Private Division label. That same week, we learned <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/02/deliver-us-mars-developer-keoken-interactive-lays-off-nearly-entire-staff">Deliver Us Mars developer Keoken Interactive had laid off nearly its entire staff</a>. </p> <p>Elsewhere in the year, EA laid off <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/02/28/ea-lays-off-670-employees-cancels-respawns-star-wars-fps">roughly 670 employees across all departments</a>, resulting in the cancellation of Respawn's Star Wars FPS game. <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/02/27/playstation-laying-off-900-across-insomniac-naughty-dog-guerrilla-and-more-closing">PlayStation laid off 900 employees</a> across Insomniac, Naughty Dog, Guerrilla, and more, closing down London Studio in the process, too. The day before, Until Dawn developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/02/26/until-dawn-little-nightmares-iii-developer-supermassive-games-is-laying-off-90">Supermassive Games announced it laid off 90 employees</a>. </p> <p>At the end of January, we learned <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/29/embracer-group-cancels-new-deus-ex-game-in-development-at-eidos-montreal-lays-off">Embracer Group had canceled a new Deus Ex game in development at Eidos-Montréal</a> and laid off 97 employees in the process. Also in January, Destroy All Humans remake developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/25/destroy-all-humans-remake-developer-black-forest-games-reportedly-lays-off-50">Black Forest Games reportedly laid off 50 employees</a> and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/25/microsoft-is-laying-off-1900-employees-across-xbox-activision-blizzard-and-zenimax">Microsoft announced it was laying off 1,900 employees across its Xbox, Activision Blizzard, and ZeniMax teams</a>, as well. Outriders studio <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/25/outriders-studio-people-can-fly-lays-off-more-than-30-employees">People Can Fly laid off more than 30 employees</a> in January, and League of Legends company <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/23/league-of-legends-company-riot-games-lays-off-530-employees">Riot Games laid off 530 employees</a>. </p> <p><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/18/lords-of-the-fallen-publisher-ci-games-lays-off-10-of-its-staff">Lords of the Fallen Publisher CI Games laid off 10 percent of its staff</a>, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/10/unity-to-lay-off-1800-employees">Unity will lay off 1,800 people by the end of March</a>, and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/10/twitch-to-lay-off-500-employees">Twitch laid off 500 employees</a>. </p> <p>We also learned that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/01/12/discord-lays-off-170-employees-due-to-overhiring#:~:text=Discord%20Lays%20Off%20170%20Employees%20Due%20To%20Overhiring%20%2D%20Game%20Informer">Discord had laid off 170 employees</a>, that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/17/ptw-a-support-studio-thats-worked-with-capcom-and-blizzard-lays-off-45-people">layoffs happened at PTW</a>, a support studio that's worked with companies like Blizzard and Capcom, and that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/17/thunderful-group-the-company-behind-2023s-steamworld-build-to-lay-off-roughly-100">SteamWorld Build company, Thunderful Group, let go of roughly 100 people</a>. Dead by Daylight developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/18/dead-by-daylight-studio-behaviour-interactive-has-reportedly-laid-off-45-people">Behaviour Interactive also reportedly laid off 45 people, too</a>. </p> <p>The hearts of the <em>Game Informer </em>staff are with everyone who's been affected by layoffs or closures. </p> <p><em>[Source: <a href="https://x.com/sweetpotatoes/status/1791158439684587999">Polygon</a>]</em></p> Thu, 16 May 2024 13:40:50 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122638 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/16/ea-sports-college-football-25-arrives-in-july-cover-athletes-and-editions-revealed <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/16/b3774566/easportscollege25_art_crop.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="EA Sports College Football 25 release date" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>EA Sports College Football finally has a release date, cover stars, and two different editions. The long-awaited return to college football hits PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S on July 19.</p> <p>Gracing the cover of the game’s Standard edition are Michigan Wolverines running back Donovan Edwards, Texas Longhorns quarterback Quinn Ewers, and Colorado Buffaloes wide receiver/defensive back Travis Hunter. Check out the Standard and Deluxe covers in the gallery below.</p> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/16/09dac203/eacollgefootbal25artfull.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/16/60f64f67/easportscollege25deluxe.jpg'></figure></section>   <p>The cover reveal comes a day before the game's full debut tomorrow. So far, we know that College Football 25 features 134 FBS schools, and it's being developed by Madden developer EA Orlando. The game was <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2021/02/02/ea-sports-announces-return-of-college-football-games">first announced in 2021</a> following a years-long hiatus for college football games due to the 2014 player likeness compensation lawsuit.</p> <p>Both editions are now available for pre-order. The Standard Edition costs $69.99 and consists of the base game, Alma Mater and Cover Athlete Ultimate Team packs, and Bring Glory Home Ultimate Team Uniform Item. </p> <p>The $99.99 Deluxe Edition includes three days of early access (July 16-18), 4600 College Football Points, Heisman Hopeful/Alma Mater/Cover Athlete Ultimate Teams packs, and the Bring Glory Home Ultimate Team Uniform Item.</p> <p>Lastly, a $149.99 MVP Bundle includes the Deluxe editions of EA Sports College Football 25 and the upcoming Madden NFL 25. </p> Thu, 16 May 2024 11:35:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 122636 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/16/xboxs-activision-opens-new-studio-to-develop-narrative-based-triple-a-franchise <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/16/e8e3fb5f/elsewhere-activision-xbox-studio.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Elsewhere Entertainment Xbox Activision Studio New Poland" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Activision, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/10/13/microsoft-has-officially-acquired-activision-blizzard-for-69-billion">the developer-publisher Microsoft and Xbox purchased for $69 billion last year</a>, has formed a new studio called Elsewhere Entertainment, and it is developing a new "narrative-based and genre-defining AAA franchise." The studio is based in Warsaw, Poland, and, according to a report from <a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/activision-opens-new-studio-tasked-with-creating-narrative-based-aaa-franchise"><em>IGN</em></a>, it is not working on a Call of Duty-related project. </p> <p>This studio, which has been formed behind-the-scenes before today's public unveiling, arrives roughly one week after <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/07/xbox-is-shutting-down-arkane-austin-tango-gameworks-and-more">Xbox closed four Bethesda studios</a>, including <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/hi-fi-rush/riff-city">Hi-Fi Rush</a> developer Tango Gameworks and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/redfall/a-life-draining-trip-to-new-england">Redfall</a> team Arkane Austin. While the company has yet to publicly address the closures directly, Xbox president Sarah Bond said in an interview that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/10/xbox-president-addresses-bethesda-studio-closures-says-its-about-keeping-business">the closures were about keeping the business healthy in the long-term</a>. It's why news of this new studio might be surprising, given one week ago, the parent company of Activision was closing studios to cut costs. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R_An8CM4ATg" width="640"></iframe> <p>"Built from the ground up, Elsewhere Entertainment is a premier and standalone studio dedicated to establishing an environment that inspires bold and diverse ideas," a <a href="https://www.activision.com/blog/activision/2024/activision-announces-new-studio-elsewhere-entertainment-all-new-franchise-development">blog post</a> reads. "The team's underlying mission encourages everyone to explore and collaborate creatively to craft a franchise with an enduring legacy that resonates far beyond games. [The] new studio has full access to Activision's resources and tools as it continues to increase production and development. </p> <p>"Elsewhere is opening its search for best-in-class talent from across the industry and around the world to help create a state-of-the-art and next generation gaming experience." </p> <p>Elsewhere is currently made up of developers with experience working on franchises like The Last of Us, Uncharted, The Witcher, Cyberpunk 2077, Destiny, Tom Clancy's The Division, and Far Cry. </p> <p><i>What kind of game do you hope Elsewhere makes? Let us know in the comments below!</i></p> Thu, 16 May 2024 11:13:26 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122635 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/16/summer-game-fest-to-have-more-than-55-studios-and-publishers-including-playstation <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/16/37da66fd/summer-game-fest.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Summer Game Fest will bring together more than 55 developers, publishers, partners, and more, including the likes of PlayStation, Xbox, and various others. The SGF livestream, which kicks off the multi-day event, happens at 2 p.m. PT/5 p.m. ET on June 7 from Los Angeles' YouTube Theater. It <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/03/13/this-years-summer-game-fest-streams-live-on-june-7">will feature announcements, first-looks, trailers, and more</a>. </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/03/13/bb5ba9ca/summer_game_fest_2024_youtube_theater_la_header.jpg" alt="summer game fest 2024 youtube theater los angeles dates tickets may 7 stream live announcements" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>Ahead of that livestream and the subsequent invite-only Play Days for hands-on gameplay, SGF has unveiled the first wave of partners taking part in this summer's festivities. We've bolded some of the bigger names appearing: </p> <ul><li><strong>2K</strong></li> <li>Amazon Games</li> <li><strong>Annapurna Interactive</strong></li> <li>Arc Games</li> <li>Atari</li> <li><strong>Bandai Namco Entertainment</strong></li> <li>Blumhouse Games</li> <li>Bokeh Game Studio</li> <li><strong>Capcom</strong></li> <li>Day of the Devs</li> <li>Deep Silver</li> <li><strong>Devolver Digital</strong></li> <li>Discord</li> <li>Dolby</li> <li><strong>Electronic Arts</strong></li> <li>Embark Studios</li> <li><strong>Epic Games</strong></li> <li>Focus Entertainment</li> <li>Funcom</li> <li>HoYoverse</li> <li>iam8bit</li> <li>Indie Angels</li> <li>Innersloth</li> <li>Ironmace</li> <li>Jyamma Games</li> <li>Level Infinite</li> <li>Magic the Gathering</li> <li>Meta</li> <li>NCSoft</li> <li>NetEase Games</li> <li>Netflix Games</li> <li>Nexon</li> <li>Niantic</li> <li>Plaion</li> <li><strong>PlayStation</strong></li> <li>Pocketpair</li> <li><strong>Private Division</strong></li> <li>Razer</li> <li>Recreate Games</li> <li><strong>Riot Games</strong></li> <li>S-Game</li> <li>Samsung Gaming Hub</li> <li>Seasun Games</li> <li><strong>Sega</strong></li> <li>SNK</li> <li><strong>Steam</strong></li> <li>Sunblink</li> <li>Supercell</li> <li>Thunderful Games</li> <li>TiMi Studio Group</li> <li>Tom Banner Studios</li> <li><strong>Ubisoft</strong></li> <li>Uncapped Games</li> <li><strong>WB Games</strong></li> <li><strong>Xbox </strong></li> </ul><p>Alongside today's partner news, SGF says it will also stream Day of the Devs: SGF Edition on June 7, immediately following the SGF live showcase. Tickets for the SGF live showcase in Los Angeles are now available for purchase, but if you can't attend in person, it will also stream on YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, X, Steam, and a variety of other international partners. </p> <p>SGF isn't the only gaming event happening this summer—check out <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/08/the-2024-summer-gaming-showcase-schedule"><em>Game Informer's </em>2024 summer gaming showcase schedule</a> to see what else is in store. </p> <p><em>What do you hope to see during this year's SGF showcase? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Thu, 16 May 2024 11:00:00 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122634 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/16/popular-medieval-strategy-city-builder-manor-lords-surpasses-2-million-sales-in-early <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/16/45b2c825/manor_lords_town_square.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Manor Lords surpasses 2 million sales" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Manor Lords, the medieval strategy city-builder and one of 2024's surprise hits, has surpassed two million copies sold. The game has only been available in PC Early Access since April 26, meaning it achieved this milestone in only three weeks.</p> <p>Publisher Hooded Horse announced the sales account for Steam, Epic, GOG, and the Microsoft Store (where Manor Lords is also playable through PC Game Pass). The game quickly caught fire, selling 1 million copies a day after launch. Since then, Manor Lords has enjoyed a consistently high concurrent player count, peaking at 173,000 on Steam in its first weekend.  </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S7MnkE_qxj8" width="640"></iframe> <p>Manor Lords is being developed by Slavic Games and puts players in the shoes of a medieval lord tasked with building and growing a city. Players manage their city’s community, infrastructure, economy, and defense/expansion, the latter of which unfold as large-scale tactical battles. The intricate social and production systems combined with an ever-changing world (complete with seasonal and weather changes) result in an organic metropolis that players have taken to in a big way. </p> <p>Manor Lords joins Early Access hits this year, such as <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/02/22/what-is-palworld-the-new-pokemon-with-guns-survival-game-everyones-playing">Palworld</a> and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/hades2">Hades II</a>. The game’s 1.0 launch is currently up in the air as the game continues to change and improve based on player feedback. It’s off to a great start, though, and we’re curious to see how it evolves throughout its EA period. </p> Thu, 16 May 2024 10:31:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 122633 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/16/you-can-play-all-of-assassins-creed-shadows-offline-but-you-need-a-connection-to <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/16/48a7f350/assassins-creed-shadows-online-offline-connection-internet.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Assassin's Creed Shadows Ubisoft Quebec Offline Online Connection Internet Single Player" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>You will need an internet connection to install <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/assassins-creed-shadows">Assassin's Creed Shadows</a>, but after that, the entire experience can be played offline, Ubisoft has announced. The company did so after word online spread that Shadows requires a mandatory online connection to play the game. </p> <p>Following the reveal of Shadows yesterday, which showcased the <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/15/assassins-creed-shadows-reveal-trailer-confirms-dual-samurai-and-shinobi">dual samurai and shinobi protagonists</a> we'll be controlling in 16th-century feudal Japan, people noticed wording in preorder listings and elsewhere that seemingly pointed to the game requiring an always-online connection. This frustrated fans of the series, especially given Shadows, like its recent predecessors, is a single-player game. However, that's not the case and Ubisoft released a statement today to clear the air. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Nszrx939ZVA" width="640"></iframe> "Hey everyone, we wanted to share some of the early information on the upcoming launch of Assassin's Creed Shadows, following some questions we've noticed in the community," the <a href="https://x.com/assassinscreed/status/1791095143799414951">statement</a> reads. "<strong>Assassin's Creed Shadows will not require a mandatory connection at all times</strong>.<strong> An online connection will be needed to install the game, but you will be able to play the entire journey offline, and explore Japan without any online connection.</strong>  "We are super excited to bring Assassin's Creed to Feudal Japan on November 15 when the game releases, and we cannot wait to show you more along the way."  <p>As you can see, it's clear Shadows is a game you can play offline, but only after connecting to the internet once to actually install the RPG. </p> <p>Assassin's Creed Shadows hits PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Amazon Luna, PC (via the Ubisoft Store and Epic Games Store), and Mac (with Apple silicon via the Mac App Store) on November 15.</p> <p>For more, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/15/assassins-creed-shadows-reveal-trailer-confirms-dual-samurai-and-shinobi">check out what we learned yesterday during the Shadows reveal</a>, and then read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2015/12/13/ranking-the-entire-assassin-s-creed-series.aspx"><em>Game Informer's </em>ranking of the entire Assassin's Creed series</a>.</p> <p><em>How do you feel about needing internet to install Assassin's Creed Shadows? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Thu, 16 May 2024 09:00:06 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122632 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/15/the-division-heartland-has-been-canceled <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/15/448d1331/the_division_heartland1.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="The Division Heartland canceled" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Ubisoft has canceled The Division Heartland. <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2021/05/06/ubisoft-reveals-free-tom-clancys-the-division-game-with-heartland">First announced in 2021</a>, the game was a free-to-play spin-off of The Division franchise developed by Red Storm Studio.</p> <p>Ubisoft revealed the cancelation in an <a href="https://staticctf.ubisoft.com/8aefmxkxpxwl/AwOkNohhzmR1qBmQ4Nj4h/096beaa470c05f39f77417742e4d25b8/Ubisoft_FY24_Earnings_PR_English_final.pdf">earnings report</a>, stating,</p> <p>“As part of Ubisoft’s efforts to streamline its operations and adapt to evolving market trends, there have been further reorganizations within the Global Publishing teams, both at the APAC region, that is not organized into three engagement hubs, and at the central level. Additionally, in line with the increased selectivity of its investments, Ubisoft has decided to stop development on The Division Heartland and has redeployed resources to bigger opportunities such as XDefiant and Rainbow Six.”</p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jpgpc0pGLFE" width="640"></iframe> <p>The Division Heartland had been quiet for some time after its reveal, including being delayed. It eventually resurfaced with closed beta tests, but scarce updates on its existence caused doubt and confusion among fans. The game was billed as a PvEvP survival action experience with players controlling a Division agent tasked with protecting a small town from enemy factions and chemical contamination. </p> <p>Despite the cancellation, we know it doesn't mean the end of the franchise. Ubisoft announced <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/09/21/ubisoft-announces-tom-clancys-the-division-3-appoints-new-series-producer">The Division 3</a> last September, with series creator Massive Entertainment back at the helm. That game currently has no release window. </p> <p>Heartland joins an expanding graveyard of canceled Ubisoft projects over the past few years. In January 2023, the publisher canceled its upcoming team-based arena battler <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2023/01/19/ubisoft-confirms-team-based-arena-combat-game-project-q-has-been-canceled">Project Q</a> and<a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2023/01/11/ubisoft-cancels-three-unannounced-games-skull-and-bones-delayed-again"> three other games in development</a>. In 2022, the battle royale Ghost Recon Frontline, Splinter Cell VR, and two unannounced games <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/07/21/ubisoft-cancels-ghost-recon-frontline-splinter-cell-vr-two-unannounced-games">were also axed</a>. An unannounced sequel to Immortals Fenix Rising was also<a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/immortals-fenyx-rising-2-reportedly-canceled-ubisoft"> reportedly scrapped</a> last July. </p> Wed, 15 May 2024 12:14:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 122630 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/15/assassins-creed-shadows-reveal-trailer-confirms-dual-samurai-and-shinobi <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/15/63cba359/assassins_creed_key_art_1.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Assassin's Creed Shadows Cinematic Trailer Reveal Dual Protagonists" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>After <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/13/assassins-creed-shadows-formerly-known-as-codename-red-gets-world-premiere-this-week">teasing its reveal earlier this week</a>, Ubisoft has officially unveiled <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/assassins-creed-shadows">Assassin's Creed Shadows</a> with its first cinematic trailer, revealing dual protagonists in the process. As many speculated, Shadows puts players in control of Japan's first African samurai, Yasuke (a real historical figure), and a female shinobi character, Naoe. It will be released on November 15.</p> <p>This dual protagonist approach isn't too surprising given it's Ubisoft Quebec developing the game – it did the same with Kassandra and Alexios in 2018's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/assassins-creed-odyssey/fighting-for-glory">Assassin's Creed Odyssey</a> and Jacob and Evie Frye in 2015's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/assassins_creed_syndicate/b/playstation4/archive/2015/10/22/assassins-creed-syndicate-review-game-informer.aspx#:~:text=The%20present%2Dday%20storyline%20returns,with%20a%20couple%20pleasant%20exceptions).">Assassin's Creed Syndicate</a> – but it's exciting nonetheless. According to the game's PlayStation preorder page, players can, "Switch seamlessly between two unlikely allies as you discover their common destiny," confirming you can control both in the story. The trailer also showcases the beauty and scale of the feudal Japan we'll be exploring in Shadows. </p> <p><strong>Check it out for yourself in the Assassin's Creed Shadows reveal trailer below</strong>: </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vovkzbtYBC8" width="640"></iframe> <p>Elsewhere in the game's PlayStation preorder listing, Ubisoft says players can explore the "captivating open world of feudal Japan, from spectacular castle towns and bustling ports to peaceful shrines and war-ravaged landscapes," while adventuring through unpredictable weather, changing seasons, and reactive environments. The changing seasons line seems to indicate the narrative of Shadows could take place over a long period of time, or at least a year. </p> <p>As a shinobi Assassin, Naoe uses stealth to avoid detection and agility to confuse enemies whereas Yasuke, a legendary samurai, uses lethal precision and power. You unlock new skills, gear, and progression independently for each character. Plus, as you explore the world, you can create your own network of spies to be your eyes and ears across Japan, and different allies will have unique skills to help you accomplish missions. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Nszrx939ZVA" width="640"></iframe> <p>"Create a fully customizable hideout for your growing shinobi league as you train your crew, craft new gear, interact with key characters, and choose your base's layouts, decorations, and accessories," the preorder listing reads. </p> <p><strong>Here's another look at Yasuke and Naoe</strong>: </p> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/15/79576766/protagonist_1.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/15/057cbde2/protagonist_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/15/42d350ab/acs_1.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/15/19b6d8b3/acs_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/15/76e49ee8/ac_shadows.jpg'></figure></section>   <p>Shadows is an exciting entry in the sprawling Assassin's Creed series. It's finally bringing players to feudal Japan, something the fanbase has wanted for years and years, and it's the next open-world mainline RPG installment since 2020's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/assassins-creed-valhalla/assassins-creed-valhalla-review-a-saga-worthy-of-song">Assassin's Creed Valhalla</a>. While last year's Assassin's Creed Mirage was quite enjoyable – <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/assassins-creed-mirage/coming-home">read <em>Game Informer's </em>review here</a> to find out why we gave it an 8 out of 10 – it was a throwback to the more linear worlds of the Assassin's Creeds of yesteryear; Shadows is the series returning to its newer open world format that began in 2017 with <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/assassins_creed_origins/b/xboxone/archive/2017/10/26/assassins-creed-origins-review.aspx">Assassin's Creed Origins</a>. </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/15/756d786d/assassins_creed_shadows.jpg" alt="Assassin's Creed Shadows Cinematic Trailer Reveal Dual Protagonists" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>Assassin's Creed Shadows launches November 15, 2024, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S,  Amazon Luna, PC (via the Ubisoft Store and Epic Games Store), and Mac (with Apple silicon via the Mac App Store).</p> <p>For more about the series, head to <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/AssassinsCreedMirage"><em>Game Informer's </em>Assassin's Creed Mirage hub</a> for exclusive behind-the-scenes details, videos, and more. After that, check out <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2015/12/13/ranking-the-entire-assassin-s-creed-series.aspx"><em>Game Informer's </em>ranking of the entire Assassin's Creed series</a>. </p> <p><em>Are you excited for Assassin's Creed Shadows? Let us know which protagonist you're most excited about in the comments below!</em></p> Wed, 15 May 2024 11:08:10 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122627 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/15/heres-your-first-look-at-joel-and-ellie-in-season-2-of-hbos-the-last-of-us <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/15/664bc16e/joel_pedro_pascal_hbos_the_last_of_us_season_2.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="HBO's The Last of Us Season 2 First Look Joel Pedro Pascal Ellie Bella Ramsey" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>HBO/Max has <a href="https://x.com/StreamOnMax/status/1790750902862631369">released</a> the first look at Pedro Pascal's Joel and Bella Ramsey's Ellie in Season 2 of <i>The Last of Us</i>, and the scenery looks familiar. As Season 2 shoots are underway, images from filming have begun to leak, but today's images are the first official shots from the upcoming season, which is due out next year. </p> <p>Pascal's Joel appears to be in the barn where a very important and intense scene between he and Ellie takes place, while Ellie appears to be inside a wintery location, likely somewhere in the game's beginning where snow is abundant. </p> <p><strong>Check out the first official look at Season 2 of <em>The Last of Us </em>for yourself below</strong>: </p> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/15/4221a25d/ellie_hbos_the_last_of_us_season_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/15/bda2e859/joel_hbos_the_last_of_us_season_2.jpg'></figure></section>   <p>Pascal and Ramsey are obviously returning cast members for the series, and they'll be joined by various newcomers in the show next year. <em>Booksmart's </em><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/01/09/kaitlyn-dever-joins-the-last-of-us-tv-show-as-abby">Kaitlyn Dever will play Abby</a>, while <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/10/hbos-the-last-of-us-young-mazino-cast-as-jesse-for-season-2">Young Mazino joins as Jesse</a>. Manny, Mel, Nora, and Owen will be played by Danny Ramirez (<i>The Falcon and the Winter Soldier</i>, <em>Top Gun: Maverick</em>), Ariela Barer (<em>Runaways</em>), Tati Gabrielle (<em>Chilling Adventures of Sabrina</em>), and Spencer Lord (<em>Riverdale</em>), respectively. </p> <p>We won't spoil these characters' roles in The Last of Us Part II, which is likely to match their roles in HBO's <em>The Last of Us </em>Season 2, but if you know, you know. </p> <p>Fans of Naughty Dog's Last of Us games eagerly await the second season of HBO's <i>The Last of Us</i>. The first season debuted in January of last year, covering the events of the first game and its Left Behind DLC. <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2023/01/27/hbos-the-last-of-us-will-return-for-a-season-2">HBO quickly confirmed the show would be getting a second season</a>, which is <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/11/03/hbos-the-last-of-us-season-2-set-to-premiere-in-2025">set to premiere next year</a>.</p> <p>We loved the first season and can't wait to see how it adapts <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/the-last-of-us-part-ii/the-last-of-us-part-ii-review-a-perfect-circle#:~:text=The%20Last%20of%20Us%20Part%20II%20is%20defined%20by%20its,during%20her%20quest%20for%20revenge.">The Last of Us Part II</a>, which got the <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/the-last-of-us-part-ii-remastered">remaster</a> treatment in January. It seems we aren't alone either – <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2023/01/17/the-last-of-us-premiere-was-hbos-second-largest-debut-since-2010"><em>The Last of Us' </em>premiere was HBO's second-largest debut since 2010</a>, and viewers stuck around for the entire season. </p> <p>The first season of <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/01/08/hbos-the-last-of-us-has-already-won-eight-emmy-awards"><em>The Last of Us </em>has already won eight Emmy awards</a>. For more, read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/the_last_of_us/b/ps3/archive/2013/06/05/the-last-of-us-review-naughty-dogs-grim-masterpiece.aspx"><em>Game Informer's </em>review of The Last of Us</a> and then read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/the-last-of-us-part-ii/the-last-of-us-part-ii-review-a-perfect-circle#:~:text=The%20Last%20of%20Us%20Part%20II%20is%20defined%20by%20its,during%20her%20quest%20for%20revenge."><em>Game Informer's </em>review of The Last of Us Part II</a>. </p> <p><em>What do you think of Ramsey and Pascal's looks as Ellie and Joel in Season 2? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Wed, 15 May 2024 10:06:09 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122629 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/15/hi-fi-rush-gets-final-patch-to-fix-minor-issues-reconfirms-limited-physical-edition <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/15/95f390e5/hi-fi_rush_final_patch_physical_edition_2.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="hi-fi rush final patch limited physical edition update tango gameworks" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/hi-fi-rush">Hi-Fi Rush</a> is getting one final patch today to address some minor issues in the game. Plus, the Hi-Fi Rush X (formerly Twitter) account has reconfirmed a physical edition of the game is coming from Limited Run Games. </p> <p>This update from the Hi-Fi Rush X account comes roughly one week after <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/07/xbox-is-shutting-down-arkane-austin-tango-gameworks-and-more">Xbox shut down the game's developer, Tango Gameworks</a>, alongside Redfall studio Arkane Austin, and two more Bethesda teams. While there won't be any more Hi-Fi Rush content coming from Tango Gameworks, hopefully today's patch puts the game in the best playable state possible so that future players can enjoy the 2023 hit. </p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you all for your continued support.<br /> <br /> We’re working to release the physical edition of Hi-Fi RUSH with our partners at Limited Run Games, as well as a final patch to address some minor issues releasing later today.<br /> <br /> ❤️</p> — Hi-Fi RUSH (@hifiRush) <a href="https://twitter.com/hifiRush/status/1790728899875213673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>The closure of Tango Gameworks arrived roughly a year after the team delivered the extremely well-received Hi-Fi Rush, which by <a href="https://twitter.com/aarongreenberg/status/1649431572137779203">Xbox's own admitted metrics</a>, was a big success. A few days after the closure of these studios, Xbox president Sarah Bond addressed the situation, stating that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/10/xbox-president-addresses-bethesda-studio-closures-says-its-about-keeping-business">it's about keeping the business healthy in the long-term</a>. </p> <p>For more, read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/hi-fi-rush/riff-city"><em>Game Informer's </em>Hi-Fi Rush review</a>, and then read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2023/07/25/the-life-and-career-of-hi-fi-rush-creator-john-johanas"><em>Game Informer's </em>profile on the life and career of Hi-Fi Rush creator John Johanas</a>. After that, check out this <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/feature/2022/12/30/exploring-shibuya-with-tango-gameworks"><em>Game Informer </em>feature about exploring Tokyo's Shibuya with Tango Gameworks</a>. </p> <p><i>Have you played Hi-Fi Rush? Let us know what you think of it in the comments below!</i></p> Wed, 15 May 2024 08:42:37 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122628 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/15/mortal-kombat-2-movie-gets-october-2025-release-date <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/15/52b7bd7f/mortal-kombat-2-movie-warner-bros-release-date.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Mortal Kombat 2 Movie Film Adaptation Warner Bros. Release Date 2025" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Warner Bros. has announced when <em>Mortal Kombat 2</em>, the sequel to 2021's <em>Mortal Kombat</em> film adaptation, will arrive in theaters and IMAX, and it's coming next year. More specifically, <em>Mortal Komat 2</em> will hit the silver screen on October 24, 2025, meaning we still have about one and a half years to go until we see what's next for these characters. </p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mortal Kombat 2 will arrive in theaters and IMAX on Oct. 24, 2025. <a href="https://t.co/ayWHhFe2Hu">pic.twitter.com/ayWHhFe2Hu</a></p> — The Game Awards (@thegameawards) <a href="https://twitter.com/thegameawards/status/1790518174091477035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>The first <em><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/movie-preview/2021/03/17/the-mortal-kombat-movie-makes-a-great-first-impression">Mortal Kombat</a></em> movie in this rebooted film series hit theaters on April 23, 2021, and <em>Game Informer </em>had a great time with it – <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/movie-review/2021/04/22/mortal-kombat-movie-review-a-strong-first-round">read our 8 out of 10 review to find out why here</a>. Here's hoping we enjoy the sequel just as much, if not more. </p> <p><em>Mortal Kombat</em> director Simon McQuoid will return to direct <em>Mortal Kombat 2</em>, and it will be written by a new writer, Jeremy Slater (alongside McQuoid), who wrote Disney's <em>Moon Knight</em> series. Alongside returning cast and characters, <em>The Boys</em> Karl Urban will join the fight as Johnny Cage. </p> <p>For more Mortal Kombat, read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/mortal-kombat-1/gory-glory"><em>Game Informer's </em>Mortal Kombat 1 review</a>, and then <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/02/22/mortal-kombat-1-check-out-john-cenas-peacemaker-debut-in-new-gameplay-trailer">check out John Cena's Peacemaker debut in the game here</a>.  </p> <p><em>Are you excited for Mortal Kombat 2? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Wed, 15 May 2024 07:31:02 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122626 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/14/dead-by-daylight-spin-off-the-casting-of-frank-stone-gets-chilling-gameplay-trailer <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/14/b5bbd2e6/the_casting_of_frank_stone_1.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>The Casting of Frank Stone, the upcoming narrative horror game set in the Dead By Daylight universe by Until Dawn developer Supermassive Games, has its first gameplay trailer. The game was <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/the-game-awards-2023/2023/12/07/the-casting-of-frank-stone-is-supermassives-single-player-horror">first announced</a> at the 2023 Game Awards. </p> <p>The story unfolds in 1980 in the town of Cedar Hills, a town scarred by the murderous killer Frank Stone. It stars four friends who set out to create a horror film at a derelict steel mill dubbed Murder Mill. Naturally, that goes as horribly as you’d imagine, and players must survive by making choices that decide the characters’ relationships and fates. Sudden quick-time events can also be the deciding factor between whether someone lives or dies. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/O1xixINNd6I" width="640"></iframe> <p>Similar to Supermassive’s previous titles like The Quarry and the Dark Pictures Anthology, The Casting of Frank Stone can go down multiple paths based on your choices. Players will also solve environmental puzzles and gather clues to learn more about Cedar Hills</p> <p>The Casting of Frank Stone still has no release date, but it will launch later this year for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. </p> Tue, 14 May 2024 16:28:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 122625 https://www.gameinformer.com/digital-issue/2024/05/14/the-hades-ii-digital-issue-is-now-live <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/13/3ebc08c2/366_digitalhero.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>If you subscribe to the digital edition of <em>Game Informer</em>, you can now learn all about our trip to Supergiant for Hades II! Following the <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/cover-reveal/2024/05/06/cover-reveal-the-making-of-hades-ii">cover reveal</a> our digital issue is now live on <a href="http://www.gameinformer.com/magazine" target="_blank">web browsers</a>, <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/game-informer/id526096699?mt=8" target="_blank">iPad/iPhone</a>, and <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gameinformer.tablet&hl=en_US" target="_blank">Android devices</a>.</p> <p>Alongside our 12-page Hades II cover story, you will also find big features on our trip to Wizards of the Coast to learn all about what is next for Dungeons & Dragons, how Digital Eclipse is conserving video game history with its documentary video games, details from our trip to South Korea to play The First Descendant, a feature about tracking down and playing a thought-lost Star Wars arcade cabinet, a piece on the history and current state of Final Fantasy XI, and lots more! We've also got previews for The Rogue Prince of Persia, Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, Monaci 2, Still Wakes the Deep, Tales of the Shire, and reviews for Stellar Blade, Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes, Sand Land, TopSpin 2K5, Tales of Kenzera: Zau, Animal Well, and much more!</p> <p>If you love print as much as we do, you can subscribe to the <em>physical</em> magazine:</p> <p style="text-align:center;"><a class="button-subscribe" href="https://subscription.gameinformer.com">Subscribe Now</a></p> <p>You get 10 issues for $19.91, or two years and 20 issues for $34.99. Individual issues are also now available <a href="https://www.gamestop.com/search/?q=gi+magazine&lang=default">for purchase at this link</a> or in any GameStop store.</p> <p>You can download the apps to read the issue <a href="http://www.gameinformer.com/magazine" target="_blank">by following this link</a>.</p> Tue, 14 May 2024 13:00:00 CDT Kyle Hilliard 122563 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/14/tomb-raider-tv-series-written-by-fleabags-phoebe-waller-bridge-ordered-by-amazon <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/14/575f2dd8/tomb_raider.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Tomb Raider TV Show Series Amazon Prime Video Crystal Dynamics Phoebe Waller-Bridge" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Amazon has ordered a new Tomb Raider TV series to production, and it will be written and produced by <em>Fleabag</em> star and writer Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who also starred in last year's <em>Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny</em>. <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/2024/04/10/the-fallout-tv-show-is-good-season-1-review#:~:text=It's%20a%20small%2C%20quiet%20moment,at%20nearly%20every%20new%20location.">Like Amazon's <em>Fallout </em>series</a>, this Tomb Raider show will premiere exclusively on Prime Video to more than 240 countries and territories around the world. </p> <p>This series order arrives as part of a larger deal between Amazon MGM Studios and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/tomb_raider/b/xbox360/archive/2013/02/25/tomb-raider-review.aspx">Tomb Raider reboot</a> developer Crystal Dynamics, which is <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/04/05/crystal-dynamics-announces-new-tomb-raider-game-will-be-powered-by-unreal-engine-5">currently working on a new Tomb Raider game in Unreal Engine 5</a>. In December of 2022, we learned <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/12/15/amazon-games-will-publish-crystal-dynamics-next-tomb-raider-game#:~:text=In%20April%2C%20Crystal%20Dynamics%20revealed,built%20on%20Unreal%20Engine%205.">Amazon Games will publish that in-development Tomb Raider game</a>, which Amazon describes as a "single-player, narrative-driven adventure that will add a new chapter to Lara Croft's story in the Tomb Raider series." </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/14/6202b1de/phoebe_producer_tomb_raider.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt="" class="image-style-body-default" /> Phoebe Waller-Bridge as Helena Shaw in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny <p>"With great IP, the possibilities are endless," Amazon Games vice president Christoph Hartmann writes in a press release. "The richness and depth of the fiction allows the Tomb Raider series from Prime Video and the video game from Amazon Games to tell separate stories about Lara Croft's adventures. We're honored that Crystal Dynamics has entrusted Amazon with this iconic franchise, and we're looking forward to seeing where this collaboration takes us." </p> <p>This is the second upcoming TV adaptation to star the iconic treasure hunter. Netflix's animated series <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/09/27/netflix-releases-teaser-for-tomb-raider-the-legend-of-lara-croft-animated-series"><em>Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft</em></a>, starring Haley Atwell, is set to premiere sometime this year. That particular show is set within the continuity of Crystal Dynamic's reboot trilogy, taking place after the events of Shadow of the Tomb Raider. </p> <p>If you're curious about Crystal Dynamics' recent Tomb Raider reboot, you can pick up Tomb Raider: Game of the Year Edition on PC via GOG for free if you're an Amazon Prime member throughout May. For more, read <em>Game Informer’s</em> thoughts on the most recent Tomb Raider game in our <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/shadow-of-the-tomb-raider/in-the-shadow-of-something-greater" target="_blank">Shadow of the Tomb Raider review</a></p> Tue, 14 May 2024 10:29:29 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122621 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/14/hellblade-ii-immortals-of-aveum-lords-of-the-fallen-and-more-head-to-xbox-game-pass-this <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/14/e3510d3b/game-pass-may-2024-2.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Xbox Game Pass May 2024" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>It's a stacked month for Xbox Game Pass subscribers. The long-awaited Senua's Saga: Hellblade II launches onto the service next week, and noteworthy 2023 titles such as Immortals of Aveum, Lords of the Fallen, Humanity, and Chants of Sennaar join the library. Take a look at all the games coming as well as those leaving Game Pass at the end of the month. We've also included links to our reviews for applicable titles. </p> <h2>What's Coming To Game Pass</h2> <p><strong>Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons</strong> (Console, PC, Cloud) - Today | <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/brothers_-_a_tale_of_two_sons/b/xbox360/archive/2013/08/07/an-excellently-crafted-adventure-kicks-off-summer-of-arcade.aspx">Our Review</a></p> <p><strong>Chants of Sennaar</strong> (Console, PC, Cloud) - May 15</p> <p><strong>EA Sports NHL 24 via EA Play</strong> (Cloud) - May 16</p> <p><strong>Immortals of Aveum via EA Play</strong> (Xbox Series X/S, PC, Cloud) - May 16 | <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/immortals-of-aveum/modern-fantasy-warfare">Our Review</a></p> <p><strong>Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II</strong> (Xbox Series X/S, PC, Cloud) - May 21</p> <p><strong>Galacticare</strong> (Xbox Series X/S, PC, Cloud) - May 23</p> <p><strong>Hauntii</strong> (Console, PC, Cloud) - May 23</p> <p><strong>Moving Out 2</strong> (Console, PC, Cloud) - May 28</p> <p><strong>Humanity</strong> (Console, PC, Cloud) - May 28 | <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/humanity/becoming-a-people-person">Our Review</a></p> <p><strong>Lords of the Fallen</strong> (Xbox Series X/S, PC, Cloud) - May 30 | <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/lords-of-the-fallen-2023/a-flawed-return">Our Review</a></p> <p><strong>Fireworks</strong> (PC) - June 4</p> <p><strong>Rolling Hills</strong> (Console, PC, Cloud) - June 4</p> <h2>What’s Leaving Game Pass on May 31</h2> <p><strong>Chicory: A Colorful Tale</strong> (Console, PC, Cloud) | <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/chicory-a-colorful-tale/chicory-a-colorful-tale-review-color-us-impressed">Our Review</a></p> <p><strong>Farworld Pioneers</strong> (Console, PC, Cloud)</p> <p><strong>JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: All-Star Battle</strong> (Console, PC, Cloud)</p> <p><strong>Pac-Man Museum Plus</strong> (Console, PC, Cloud)</p> <p><strong>Little Witch in the Woods</strong> (Console, PC, Cloud)</p> <p><strong>Railway Empire II</strong> (Console, PC, Cloud)</p> Tue, 14 May 2024 10:16:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 122620 https://www.gameinformer.com/ngt/2024/05/14/dread-delusion-new-gameplay-today <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/13/3adf63aa/dread-delusion-is-a-morrowind-like-rpg-out-now-new-gameplay-today.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Dread Delusion Lovely Hellplace Dread XP New Gameplay Today Morrowind Elder Scrolls" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>After a few years in Early Access, Dread Delusion, an Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind-like RPG, is finally out in 1.0 on PC! And to celebrate the game's launch, <em>Game Informer </em>editors Wesley LeBlanc, Kyle Hilliard, and Marcus Stewart are showcasing what to expect in today's New Gameplay Today. </p> <p>The gameplay you can watch below takes place about five hours into the game, with Wesley exploring an Eldritch castle of sorts. If you like what you see, you can up the game on Steam for $15.99 until May 16, which is when the price jumps up to $19.99. </p> <p>Check out <em>Game Informer's </em>Dread Delusion New Gameplay Today below: </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tmeliUCQI3A" width="640"></iframe> <p>Head to <em>Game Informer's </em><a href="https://www.youtube.com/gameinformer" target="_blank">YouTube channel</a> for more previews, reviews, and discussions of new and upcoming games. Watch other episodes of <em>New Gameplay Today</em> <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/ngt" target="_blank">right here.</a></p> Tue, 14 May 2024 10:00:00 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122610 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/14/ps5-breaks-sales-record-but-still-falls-short-of-target-after-crossing-59-million <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2023/07/27/673d3da6/playstation_5_surpasses_40_million_units_sold_sony_ps5.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="PlayStation 5 Sony PS5 Surpasses 59 million record revenue missed target decline" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Sony Interactive Entertainment has revealed in <a href="chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.sony.com/en/SonyInfo/IR/library/presen/er/pdf/23q4_supplement.pdf">its latest financial earnings report</a> it sold 20.8 million PlayStation 5 units in the fiscal year that ended on March 31. In doing so, Sony sold more than any fiscal year since the console's launch in November 2020. However, despite that achievement, Sony still fell short of its original PS5 sales target for this year, missing it by more than 4 million units. </p> <p>Originally targeting 25 million units for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, Sony sold 20.8 million, bringing the grand total up to 59 million, despite the 4 million units miss. As noted by <a href="https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/ps5-hits-59m-as-helldivers-2-breaks-playstations-launch-sales-record/"><em>VideoGamesChronicle</em></a>, however, Sony revised that 25 million unit target in February to just 21 million; it still didn't hit that target, though, just narrowly missing the mark. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Xq4XNbH6mtk" width="640"></iframe> <p>At 59 million units, the PS5 is just behind the PlayStation 4's 60 million units at the same point in its life cycle. However, Tokyo-based video game analyst Serkan Toto told <em>VGC </em>that 20.8 million units sold is likely going to remain the peak for the PS5, and that this number would have been much lower if not for the release of <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/helldivers-2">Helldivers 2</a> in February, which is <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/14/helldivers-2-is-playstations-fastest-selling-game-ever-crossing-12-million-copies">PlayStation's fastest-selling game ever after selling 12 million copies in 12 weeks</a>. </p> <p>On the earnings call, Sony told investors to expect gaming sales to decrease in the fiscal year that just began (and ends March of next year) due to an expected decrease in console sales. There are also no major games from existing franchises releasing between now and then, according to the company. However, Sony says it still plans to release Concord, <a href="https://blog.playstation.com/2023/05/24/introducing-concord-a-new-pvp-multiplayer-fps-from-firewalk-studios-coming-to-ps5-and-pc/">the new multiplayer online shooter IP from Firewalk Studios coming to PS5 and PC</a>, this year. </p> <p>For more about PlayStation, read about how <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/14/hermen-hulst-and-hideaki-nishino-named-dual-playstation-ceos-following-jim-ryans">Hermen Hulst and Hideaki Nishino have been named dual CEOs of the company</a>, and then read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/stellar-blade/more-than-a-pretty-face#:~:text=Stellar%20Blade%20is%20unabashed%20in,stand%20with%20the%20big%20girls."><em>Game Informer's </em>Stellar Blade review</a>. After that, check out <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/final-fantasy-vii-rebirth/cracking-the-planet-wide-open"><em>Game Informer's </em>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth review</a>. </p> <p><i>How do you feel about the PlayStation 5 at this point in its lifecycle? Let us know in the comments below!</i></p> Tue, 14 May 2024 09:21:19 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122619 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/14/former-marvels-midnight-suns-xcom-designer-jake-solomon-announces-new-startup-midsummer <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/14/8d05e809/midsummer-jake-solomon-photo.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Jake Solomon Midsummer Studios annoucement" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Jake Solomon, former long-time Firaxis designer and director who spearheaded Marvel’s Midnight Suns and was a lead designer on XCOM: Enemy Unknown, has announced he’s formed a new company following his <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2023/02/17/firaxis-jake-solomon-announces-departure-from-studio">departure from Firaxis last February</a>. Midsummer Studios is a team consisting of veteran Firaxis and Maxis designers. </p> <p>Midsummer was founded by Solomon, who serves as CEO and creative director, game director Will Miller (also formerly of Firaxis), and COO/CFO Nelsie Birch, a newcomer to games with a 25-year career in financial and operations management. They’re joined by executive producer Grant Rodiek, an 18-year veteran of Maxis Studios and former producer/director on several entries of The Sims. In addition to them, the small team currently consists of six other designers.</p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/A5M5i_ygnPo" width="640"></iframe> <p>The company’s debut game will be a next-gen life sim that, according to the press release, “emphasizes player-driven narratives, allowing communities to share memorable moments that grow out of the creativity of players themselves.” </p> <p>“The best stories in games are written by the players,” said Solomon in the press release. “At Midsummer we’re making a life sim focused on the drama of modern life, where our players will write meaningful stories just by playing, and then share those stories with the world.”</p> <p>Midsummer has secured a $6 million investment with several partners and is focused on growing a sustainable studio that values the health and happiness of its employees.</p> Tue, 14 May 2024 09:17:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 122618 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/14/helldivers-2-is-playstations-fastest-selling-game-ever-crossing-12-million-copies <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/14/4892098a/helldivers-2.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Helldivers 2 Arrowhead Game Studios PlayStation 5 Fastest Selling Launch Live Service" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/helldivers-2">Helldivers 2</a> is PlayStation's fastest-selling game ever, the company has announced in its latest financial earnings call. It achieved this title after crossing 12 million copies sold in 12 weeks, beating out the record previously held by <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/god-of-war-ragnarok/next-to-godliness">God of War Ragnarök</a>, which sold 11 million copies in 10 weeks, as reported by <a href="https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/ps5-hits-59m-as-helldivers-2-breaks-playstations-launch-sales-record/"><i>VideoGamesChronicle</i></a>. </p> <p>Developer Arrowhead Game Studios' live-service multiplayer shooter sequel hit PlayStation 5 on February 8, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/playstation-showcase/2023/05/24/helldivers-ii-is-coming-later-this-year">with a simultaneous PC launch that same day</a>, which is new for PlayStation. Its usual PC strategy sees PlayStation games launching on PC years after the game's console release – <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/03/06/ghost-of-tsushima-directors-cut-rides-to-pc-in-may#:~:text=The%20game's%20Director's%20Cut%20is,co%2Dop%20multiplayer%20Legends%20mode.">Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut is only just now coming to PC this month</a>, for example. It seems launching on PC day-and-date with PS5 was the right call, though, as Helldivers 2 is now a bonafide hit for PlayStation. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dmN09ock04Q" width="640"></iframe> <p>Arrowhead Game Studios CEO Johan Pilestedt celebrated the news, noting there are more Helldivers 2 players than Swedes (the studio is based in Stockholm, Sweden) while thanking players for helping the team and PlayStation reach this achievement. </p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">As announced in the Sony earnings call, we have sold over 12M units!<br /> <br /> It's crazy to think that there are more Helldivers than there are Swedes 🤯<br /> <br /> What a massive achievement from everyone involved in realizing <a href="https://twitter.com/helldivers2?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Helldivers2</a>. A massive thank you to the community for your support,…</p> — Pilestedt (@Pilestedt) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pilestedt/status/1790300010401104124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>Notably, Arrowhead Game Studios is independent – PlayStation published Helldivers 2 as a PS5 console exclusive, in a way previously referred to as second-party. However, given acquisitions are happening more and more this generation, it wouldn't be surprising if PlayStation attempted to bring Arrowhead Game Studios under the first-party umbrella. </p> <p>For more, read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/helldivers-2/bullet-heaven"><em>Game Informer's </em>Helldivers 2 review</a>, and then read about how <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/06/playstation-walks-back-helldivers-2-changes-psn-account-linking-no-longer-required">PlayStation recently walked back its Helldivers 2 PlayStation Network changes</a>. </p> <p><em>[Source: <a href="https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/ps5-hits-59m-as-helldivers-2-breaks-playstations-launch-sales-record/">VideoGamesChronicle</a>]</em></p> <p><em>Are you one of the 12 million Helldivers 2 players? Let us know in the comments below!</em> </p> Tue, 14 May 2024 08:05:41 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122617 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/14/hermen-hulst-and-hideaki-nishino-named-dual-playstation-ceos-following-jim-ryans <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/14/44dba18b/sony-ceos.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Sony Interactive Entertainment PlayStation Hermen Hulst Hideaki Nishino CEOs" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Sony has appointed Hermen Hulst and Hideaki Nishino as dual CEOs of PlayStation, following Jim Ryan's departure from the company this spring; they will begin June 1. <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/09/27/playstation-head-jim-ryan-leaving-sony-next-spring#:~:text=Why%20Is%20Jim%20Ryan%20Leaving,said%20in%20the%20press%20release.">Ryan announced he was leaving PlayStation last year</a>, with Sony Group Corporation COO and CFO Hiroki Totoki stepping in as interim CEO following his departure in March. After that brief stint, PlayStation is tackling the CEO position with two figures, each with different focuses. </p> <p>Hulst has been appointed CEO of SIE's Studio Business Group while Nishino has been appointed CEO of SIE's Platform Business Group. Totoki, now through as interim CEO, will serve as a Chairman of SIE in addition to returning to his role as COO and CFO of Sony Group Corporation. Both Nishino and Hulst will report to Totoki. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bCQMHjDAJZU" width="640"></iframe> <p>"Sony Interactive Entertainment is a dynamic and growing business that delivers incredible entertainment experiences through the connection of content and technology," Totoki writes in a press release. "These two leaders will have clear responsibilities and will manage strategic direction to ensure the focus remains on deepening engagement with existing PlayStation users and expanding experiences to new audiences."</p> <p>Nishino was the senior vice president of PlayStation's Platform Experience Group, "responsible for developing the experiences and technology with PlayStation products and services," including the PlayStation 5, PlayStation VR2, and PlayStation Network. Sony says in his new CEO position, he will continue to be responsible for technology, products, services, and platform experiences. He will also oversee third party publisher and developer relations and commercial operations, including sales and marketing of hardware, services, and peripherals, the press release reads. </p> <p>"We will continue to connect players through world-class products, services, and technology," Nishino writes. "We always strive to grow our community even bigger with innovation in every area at Sony Interactive Entertainment. I am honored to be appointed such an important role alongside Hermen. By working more closely together, we will be positioned to build incredible experiences for an ever-expanding audience now and in the future." </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Xq4XNbH6mtk" width="640"></iframe> <p>Hulst was the senior vice president and PlayStation Studios head, responsible for "developing content across many devices including PlayStation consoles and PCs, and bringing video game IP to new mediums such as film and television through PlayStation Productions." As CEO, Hulst will be responsible for the development, publishing, and business operations of first party content. </p> <p>"I am thrilled to lead the studio business group and continue to build on our success with PlayStation 5, while preparing for the future," he writes in the press release. "The video game industry is one of the largest entertainment industries in the world and has been built on the marriage of content and technology, and I look forward to continuing to push the boundaries of play and entertainment."</p> <p>Totoki says in a separate <a href="https://sonyinteractive.com/en/news/blog/a-message-from-hiroki-totoki-a-new-era-at-sony-interactive-entertainment/">blog post</a> that later this month, players will "learn more about the long-term vision for Sony Group and the essential role SIE plays in that vision," hinting that the company might have some kind of event happening in May. He adds, "[Fiscal Year 2024] marks the start of the Mid-Range Plan period for Sony Group in which we will set the course for sustainable growth." </p> <p>For more about PlayStation, read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/stellar-blade/more-than-a-pretty-face#:~:text=Stellar%20Blade%20is%20unabashed%20in,stand%20with%20the%20big%20girls."><em>Game Informer's </em>Stellar Blade review</a>, and then read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/final-fantasy-vii-rebirth/cracking-the-planet-wide-open"><em>Game Informer's </em>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth review</a>. After that, check out this <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/04/19/former-playstation-boss-jack-tretton-on-acquisitions-live-service-games-e3-his-new"><em>Game Informer </em>interview with former PlayStation boss Jack Tretton</a> about acquisitions, live service games, E3, and more. </p> <p><i>What do you think about PlayStation's dual CEO approach? Let us know in the comments below!</i></p> Tue, 14 May 2024 07:33:31 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122615 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/13/check-out-the-jokers-multiversus-gameplay-and-the-batman-who-laughs-alternate-costume <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/13/114e7f25/multiversus-joker-batman-who-laughs.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Multiversus Joker gameplay" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Last week, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/08/the-joker-voiced-by-mark-hamill-joins-multiversus">The Joker</a> was announced as the first new fighter joining MultiVersus ahead of its upcoming relaunch this month. The reveal was purely cinematic, however, but today’s new trailer shows off his gameplay.</p> <p>The video not only gives fans a sample of actor Mark Hamill’s new voice lines, but also reveals that Joker has an alternate costume modeled after The Batman Who Laughs. The video also shows what appears to be unique dialogue interactions between Joker and his long-time sidekick, Harley Quinn. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1Nshwsz-f7M" width="640"></iframe> <p>MultiVersus has other new characters joining the fray that will be revealed over time. Following a lengthy hiatus since its open beta concluded last year, the game will return in an improved form on May 28.</p> Mon, 13 May 2024 15:43:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 122614 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/13/atlus-is-delisting-the-original-shin-megami-tensei-v-and-its-dlc-ahead-of-vengeances <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2022/01/03/7e7d019d/shin_megami_tensei_v_art.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Shin Megami Tensei V delisting Nintendo eShop" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Atlus has announced that the original version of Shin Megami Tensei V will be delisted from the Nintendo eShop on June 13. That’s one day before the launch of its expanded definitive edition, Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance.</p> <p>On June 13, Shin Megami Tensei V’s Digital Standard and Digital Deluxe editions and all of its DLC will be removed from the eShop. However, owners of the physical and digital versions will still be able to play and redownload this content after it’s been delisted. SMT V first launched in November 2021, and Atlus declared it the <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/01/03/shin-megami-tensei-v-becomes-best-selling-entry-in-franchise-atlus-teases-new-project">best-selling game in the series</a> in January 2022.</p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">The original Shin Megami Tensei V Digital Standard, Digital Deluxe, and all associated DLC will be delisted from the Nintendo eShop on June 13.<br /> <br /> Previously purchased physical and digital versions will remain playable and re-downloadable after this date.</p> — Official ATLUS West (@Atlus_West) <a href="https://twitter.com/Atlus_West/status/1790079785214914724?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>Atlus has not provided a reason for this move, but given the timing, it’s likely to avoid confusion with the upcoming SMTV: Vengeance, which is the same game (including all DLC) but with quality-of-life improvements and an additional storyline that introduces new locations and demons. Think of it as the Persona 5 Royal of SMT V. Vengeance will also be multi-platform, whereas the original game was a Switch exclusive, and it will run for the same price as the original Standard version, $59.99.</p> <p>Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance launches on June 14. You can read our extended preview of the game <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/preview/2024/04/30/back-with-a-vengeance">here</a>, and you can also check out our review of the original SMT V <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/shin-megami-tensei-v/shin-megami-tensei-v-review-beauty-in-an-unforgiving-world">here</a>.</p> Mon, 13 May 2024 13:26:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 122613 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/13/the-rogue-prince-of-persia-delayed-to-later-this-month-because-of-hades-ii <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/10/2e7e89a7/the_rogue_prince_of_persia.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Evil Empire Ubisoft The Rogue Prince of Persia Roguelike PC Early Access Delayed Hades II" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p><strong><em>Update, 5/13/24:</em></strong></p> <p>The Rogue Prince of Persia, the upcoming roguelike from Dead Cells developer Evil Empire, will double-jump into Early Access on May 27. This new release date follows a delay from the original May 14 release date as a result of Hades II, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/cover-reveal/2024/05/06/cover-reveal-the-making-of-hades-ii">which is gracing the latest cover of <em>Game Informer</em></a>, launching into Early Access last week. </p> <p>Evil Empire delayed The Rogue Prince of Persia's Early Access launch to give its team members, their mothers, and players around the world more time with Hades II. The team said at the time The Rogue Prince of Persia would still hit Early Access this month, and now we know it's May 27. </p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Rogue Prince of Persia's new release date is 27th May! If you didn't see our previous post, the TLDR is to give people time to play Hades 2, including us😄<br /> But if Silksong shadow-drops in the next two weeks we're burning the whole thing down!<br /> Anyway, we can also reveal The… <a href="https://t.co/ZQM3l5DcBI">pic.twitter.com/ZQM3l5DcBI</a></p> — Evil Empire (@Studio_Evil) <a href="https://twitter.com/Studio_Evil/status/1790019538362290455?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2024</a></blockquote> <p><em>The original story continues below...</em></p> <p><strong><em>Original story, 5/10/24:</em></strong></p> <p>Dead Cells developer Evil Empire has delayed its upcoming roguelike, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/the-rogue-prince-of-persia">The Rogue Prince of Persia</a>, because of Hades II. Originally due out on Tuesday, May 14, in PC Early Access, Evil Empire has delayed the game to later this month to give potential players more time with <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/06/hades-ii-is-now-available-in-early-access-on-pc">Hades II</a>, which is another roguelike that hit Early Access this week (<a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/cover-reveal/2024/05/06/cover-reveal-the-making-of-hades-ii">and it's also gracing the latest cover of <em>Game Informer </em>Magazine</a>). </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wJhZAvXILI4" width="640"></iframe> <p>"So it's been a bit of a crazy week for us," a <a href="https://x.com/Studio_Evil/status/1788886708064317943">statement</a> from Evil Empire reads. "It all started when a little game called Hades II released – you might have have heard of it? Seeing as everyone and their mum is playing that game (including our entire team...and their mums), we have decided to let people have their fun with it before we release The Rogue Prince of Persia. </p> <p>"We will still be releasing in May and will be back with a precise date on Monday. While we have every confidence in The Rogue Prince of Persia, it's not every day that a game in the same genre as you, which is one of the most anticipated upcoming games of 2024, will release into Early Access a week before you plan to do the same. We are not prideful enough to ignore the implications of that, and we truly believe that this short delay is the best decision for us and our Early Access journey." </p> <p>The team says this extra time will be used to polish The Rogue Prince of Persia even more, add "even more cool things," and fix some bugs. It also notes the Day One patch for the game was getting big and this extra time will give the team more time to test it (and lower the team's stress as a result).</p> <p><em>Game Informer </em>went hands-on with the game recently and loved what we played – you can read our <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/preview/2024/04/10/we-played-the-rogue-lite-prince-of-persia-from-the-co-developer-of-dead-cells">preview impressions of The Rogue Prince of Persia here</a>. If you're curious how it looks in action, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/ngt/2024/04/10/the-rogue-prince-of-persia-new-gameplay-today">watch this New Gameplay Today all about The Rogue Prince of Persia</a>. For more, check out <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/faq/2024/04/13/what-is-the-difference-between-roguelike-and-rogue-lite">our discussion with Evil Empire about the difference between a roguelike and a rogue-lite</a>. </p> <p><em>Are you going to check out The Rogue Prince of Persia later this month? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Mon, 13 May 2024 13:25:00 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122597 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/13/square-enix-will-begin-layoffs-as-part-of-structural-reforms-this-week <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/04/30/5bbc8884/square-enix.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Square Enix Layoffs Structural Reform U.S. U.K. " typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Square Enix, the developer-publisher behind this year's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/final-fantasy-vii-rebirth">Final Fantasy VII Rebirth</a>, is set to lay off an unspecified number of employees across its U.S. and European offices, which are headquartered in California and the United Kingdom, respectively, this week. According to those in attendance, Square Enix president Takashi Kiryu delivered this news in a company-wide meeting, as first reported by <a href="https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/square-enix-confirms-us-eu-layoffs-as-part-of-restructuring/"><em>VideoGamesChronicle</em></a>. </p> <p>Layoffs such as these were suspected following Square Enix's latest financial earnings report, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/13/square-enix-will-aggressively-pursue-multiplatform-strategy-in-company-reboot">which includes a three-year company reboot plan with an "aggressive" multiplatform release strategy</a> after a slide mentioned "structural reforms." You can see the slide below: </p> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/13/f8e829a2/img_1593.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt="" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>As you can see above, as part of Square Enix's plan to rebuild its overseas business divisions from the ground up, the company "began optimizing costs at its European and American offices via structural reforms." After more than 10,000 layoffs across game studios and publishers this year, it's easy to read between the lines – structural reforms sound a lot like "layoffs," and now <em>VGC </em>has confirmed as much. </p> <p>The publication reports these layoffs will happen over the course of the next month, with those affected set to find out this week. The total number of expected layoffs is not known, but <i>VGC</i>'s sources say staff was told it will mostly affect those working in publishing, IT, and Square Enix's Collective indie games division. </p> <p>U.K. employees laid off will enter into a "one-month consultancy period" in accordinace with local U.K. law, while affected U.S. staff could be out of their jobs potentially before the end of the month. </p> <p>These layoffs join a string of other disheartening 2024 layoffs and closures, which now total more than 10,000 in just the first five months of the year. </p> <p>Earlier this month, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/07/xbox-is-shutting-down-arkane-austin-tango-gameworks-and-more">Xbox closed four Bethesda studios</a>, including Hi-Fi Rush developer Tango Gameworks and Redfall studio Arkane Austin. <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/02/take-two-closes-rollerdrome-and-kerbal-space-program-2-studios-while-majority-of">Take-Two Interactive closed Rollerdrome studio Roll7 and Kerbal Space Program 2 studio Intercept Games</a> alongside major layoffs to its indie-publisher Private Division label. That same week, we learned <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/02/deliver-us-mars-developer-keoken-interactive-lays-off-nearly-entire-staff">Deliver Us Mars developer Keoken Interactive had laid off nearly its entire staff</a>. </p> <p>Elsewhere in the year, EA laid off <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/02/28/ea-lays-off-670-employees-cancels-respawns-star-wars-fps">roughly 670 employees across all departments</a>, resulting in the cancellation of Respawn's Star Wars FPS game. <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/02/27/playstation-laying-off-900-across-insomniac-naughty-dog-guerrilla-and-more-closing">PlayStation laid off 900 employees</a> across Insomniac, Naughty Dog, Guerrilla, and more, closing down London Studio in the process, too. The day before, Until Dawn developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/02/26/until-dawn-little-nightmares-iii-developer-supermassive-games-is-laying-off-90">Supermassive Games announced it laid off 90 employees</a>. </p> <p>At the end of January, we learned <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/29/embracer-group-cancels-new-deus-ex-game-in-development-at-eidos-montreal-lays-off">Embracer Group had canceled a new Deus Ex game in development at Eidos-Montréal</a> and laid off 97 employees in the process. Also in January, Destroy All Humans remake developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/25/destroy-all-humans-remake-developer-black-forest-games-reportedly-lays-off-50">Black Forest Games reportedly laid off 50 employees</a> and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/25/microsoft-is-laying-off-1900-employees-across-xbox-activision-blizzard-and-zenimax">Microsoft announced it was laying off 1,900 employees across its Xbox, Activision Blizzard, and ZeniMax teams</a>, as well. Outriders studio <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/25/outriders-studio-people-can-fly-lays-off-more-than-30-employees">People Can Fly laid off more than 30 employees</a> in January, and League of Legends company <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/23/league-of-legends-company-riot-games-lays-off-530-employees">Riot Games laid off 530 employees</a>. </p> <p><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/18/lords-of-the-fallen-publisher-ci-games-lays-off-10-of-its-staff">Lords of the Fallen Publisher CI Games laid off 10 percent of its staff</a>, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/10/unity-to-lay-off-1800-employees">Unity will lay off 1,800 people by the end of March</a>, and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/10/twitch-to-lay-off-500-employees">Twitch laid off 500 employees</a>. </p> <p>We also learned that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/01/12/discord-lays-off-170-employees-due-to-overhiring#:~:text=Discord%20Lays%20Off%20170%20Employees%20Due%20To%20Overhiring%20%2D%20Game%20Informer">Discord had laid off 170 employees</a>, that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/17/ptw-a-support-studio-thats-worked-with-capcom-and-blizzard-lays-off-45-people">layoffs happened at PTW</a>, a support studio that's worked with companies like Blizzard and Capcom, and that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/17/thunderful-group-the-company-behind-2023s-steamworld-build-to-lay-off-roughly-100">SteamWorld Build company, Thunderful Group, let go of roughly 100 people</a>. Dead by Daylight developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/18/dead-by-daylight-studio-behaviour-interactive-has-reportedly-laid-off-45-people">Behaviour Interactive also reportedly laid off 45 people, too</a>. </p> <p><em>[Source: <a href="https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/square-enix-confirms-us-eu-layoffs-as-part-of-restructuring/">VideoGamesChronicle</a>]</em></p> Mon, 13 May 2024 13:17:32 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122612 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/13/assassins-creed-shadows-formerly-known-as-codename-red-gets-world-premiere-this-week <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/04/03/ca322f82/assassins-creed-codename-red.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Assassin's Creed Shadows world premiere" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/09/10/ubisoft-reveals-feudal-japan-mainline-assassins-creed-a-china-based-mobile-game-and-more">Assassin’s Creed Codename Red</a> now has an official title: Assassin’s Creed Shadows. We’ll also get our first full-length look at the series' first Japanese entry this week. </p> <p>Ubisoft announced on <a href="https://twitter.com/Ubisoft/status/1790049608720125969">X</a> that the game’s cinematic world premiere trailer will air on May 15 at 9 a.m. P.T./12 p.m. ET. Ubisoft’s use of the word “cinematic” suggests that this trailer will not include gameplay. If that’s the case, Ubisoft could be saving a gameplay reveal for its <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/04/03/ubisoft-forward-confirmed-for-june-same-week-as-summer-game-fest">Ubisoft Forward</a> presentation less than a month later, on June 10.</p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Assassin's Creed Codename Red becomes Assassin's Creed Shadows.<br /> Tune-in for the Official Cinematic World Premiere Trailer on May 15, 9 AM PT.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AssassinsCreedShadows?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AssassinsCreedShadows</a> <a href="https://t.co/GF0BWqVOhS">pic.twitter.com/GF0BWqVOhS</a></p> — Ubisoft (@Ubisoft) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ubisoft/status/1790049608720125969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>Assassin’s Creed Shadows was first announced in 2022 and will be the first entry set in feudal Japan. At the time, Ubisoft described the game as being an open-world RPG and the ultimate "shinobi fantasy." It is being developed by Ubisoft Quebec, the team behind Assassin's Creed Odyssey. It has no release window, but the game is expected to launch later this year.</p> Mon, 13 May 2024 11:27:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 122606 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/13/square-enix-will-aggressively-pursue-multiplatform-strategy-in-company-reboot <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/02/21/d6a03dd5/nibelheim_opener5.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Final Fantasy VII 7 Rebirth Square Enix Multiplatform Business Financial Strategy" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Square Enix is rebooting itself, "aggressively" pursuing a multiplatform strategy that includes PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, and PC in the process. This comes from the company's latest financial earnings<a href="chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://tdnet-pdf.kabutan.jp/20240513/140120240513592661.pdf"> report</a>, which details Square Enix's three-year reboot plan for long-term growth. </p> <p>Within that three-year reboot plan, <strong>Square Enix lists four pillars</strong>: </p> <ul><li>Enhance productivity by optimizing the development footprint in the Digital Entertainment (DE) segment</li> <li>Diversify earnings opportunities by strengthening customer contact points</li> <li>Roll out initiatives to create additional foundational stability</li> <li>Strike a balance between shareholder return and growth investment when allocating capital </li> </ul> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/13/622cbe3f/se.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt="" class="image-style-body-default" /> <p>As part of this plan, Square Enix "will aggressively pursue a multiplatform strategy that includes Nintendo platforms, PlayStation, Xbox, and PCs," according to the financial <a href="chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://tdnet-pdf.kabutan.jp/20240513/140120240513592496.pdf">report</a>. "Especially, in regards to major franchise and AAA titles including catalog titles, it will build an environment where more customers can enjoy these titles," it continues, possibly alluding to multiplatform releases for future Final Fantasy games and more.</p> <p>This strategy switch-up follows reports that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/final-fantasy-vii-rebirth">Final Fantasy VII Rebirth</a>, a PlayStation 5-exclusive RPG that launched in February underperformed; Final Fantasy VII Rebirth followed in the footsteps of its predecessor, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/final-fantasy-vii-remake/final-fantasy-vii-remake-review-old-friends-and-new-life">Final Fantasy VII Remake</a>, which launched exclusively on PlayStation 4 in 2020, and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/final-fantasy-xvi">Final Fantasy XVI</a>, which hit PS5 last year (<a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/03/11/final-fantasy-xvi-pc-version-in-final-stages-of-optimization-expect-a-demo-before">although it's set to release on PC sometime in the future</a>). </p> <p>Square Enix also says it will "devise a platforms strategy for SD [Smart Devices/PC Browser portfolio] that includes not only iOS and Android, but also the possibility of PC launches. It continues, "Furthermore, the Group will strive to maximize the acquisition of new users when launching a title and that of recurring users after starting management of game operation." </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-qk4TDTo0-E" width="640"></iframe> <p>Throughout the financial report, Square Enix uses the word "fun" as a focal point for the future development of its games. It says it wants to focus on the development of titles "delivering 'fun' that only [Square Enix] can create and build." </p> <p>In terms of numbers, Square Enix's net sales are up 3.8% year-over-year at $2.28 billion this year, with digital entertainment sales up 2.5% at $1.59 billion. However, its operating income – $209 million – is down nearly 27%. </p> <p>These numbers and subsequent strategy shift aren't surprising, considering at the end of April, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/04/30/square-enix-has-seemingly-canceled-some-games-in-an-effort-to-be-more-selective-and">Square Enix canceled some of its in-development games</a> to be "more selective and focused," which lines up with its new philosophy. This likely means we'll be seeing more titles like <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/dragon-quest-xi-echoes-of-an-elusive-age/relying-on-the-past#:~:text=The%20plot%20isn't%20groundbreaking,on%20the%20path%20to%20help.">Dragon Age XI</a>, Final Fantasy XVI, and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth on various platforms and less games like <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/foamstars">Foamstars</a> and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/the-diofield-chronicle">The DioField Chronicle</a>. Only time will tell, though, and Square Enix thinks it will take three years for this company reboot.</p> <p>For more, read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/final-fantasy-vii-rebirth/cracking-the-planet-wide-open"><em>Game Informer's </em>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth review</a>, and then read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/final-fantasy-xvi/victory-in-the-land-of-gods-and-monsters"><em>Game Informer's </em>Final Fantasy XVI review</a>. After that, read about <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/feature/2023/07/28/everything-you-need-to-know-about-final-fantasy-xiv-dawntrail">Final Fantasy XIV's upcoming Dawntrail expansion</a>, which is <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/03/25/final-fantasy-xiv-dawntrail-launches-july-2-collectors-edition-revealed">due out this July</a>. </p> <p><em>What are your thoughts on Square Enix's new strategy?Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Mon, 13 May 2024 08:01:12 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122605 https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/05/10/the-voice-of-final-fantasy-xvis-cid-will-play-galactus-in-marvels <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/10/a2b3a137/ralph-cid-fantastic-four-ffxvi-galactus.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Marvel's The Fantastic Four Galactus Villain Ralph Ineson Final Fantasy XVI FFXVI Cid" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Marvel Studios has cast Ralph Ineson as the planet-eating Galactus for <i>The Fantastic Four. </i>PlayStation 5 players might recognize that name as the voice of Cidolfus Telamon, aka Cid, in Final Fantasy XVI. This casting comes from <em><a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/fantastic-four-casts-ralph-ineson-as-galactus-1235893995/">The Hollywood Reporter</a></em>, which reports that the production will begin shooting mid-summer in England. </p> <a class="linkoriginal" data-featherlight="image" href=""> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/10/d49e41b9/ff_poster.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt="" class="image-style-body-default" /> </a> <p>Ineson, whom you might also know from <em>The VVitch</em>, <em>The Northman</em>, and <i>The Creator</i>, joins a star-studded cast for the Marvel Cinematic Universe's first film about Marvel's First Family, which features Pedro Pascal (HBO's <i>The Last of Us</i>) as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby (<em>Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning</em>) as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn (<em>Stranger Things</em>) as Johnny Storm/Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (<em>The Bear</em>), as Ben Grimm/The Thing. Joining Ineson is a female Silver Surfer played by Julia Garner (<em>Ozark</em>).</p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_zUKx44AQXA" width="640"></iframe> <p>Paul Walter Hauser (<i>Cobra Kai</i>) and John Malkovich (<em>Being John Malkovich</em>) will also appear in <i>The Fantastic Four</i>, although their roles are currently undisclosed. </p> <p>If you've played FFXVI, you already know Ineson has an incredible voice, certainly perfect for the role of a massive galactic entity that devours planets; we can't wait to see what he does as Galactus when <i>The Fantastic Four </i>hits theaters on July 25, 2025. </p> <p>For more, read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/final-fantasy-xvi/victory-in-the-land-of-gods-and-monsters"><em>Game Informer's </em>Final Fantasy XVI review</a>, and then read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/exclusive-interview/2024/03/11/final-fantasy-xvi-lessons-learned-clives-reception-loose-ends-and"><em>Game Informer's </em>exclusive interview with Final Fantasy XVI producer Naoki Yoshida</a> about lessons learned, Clive's reception, loose ends, and more. Be sure to check out <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/FFXVI"><em>Game Informer's </em>Final Fantasy XVI coverage hub</a> for our exclusive cover story, behind-the-scenes details, video interviews, and more. </p> <p><em>[Source: <a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/fantastic-four-casts-ralph-ineson-as-galactus-1235893995/">The Hollywood Reporter</a>]</em></p> <p><i>Do you think Ralph Ineson will make a good Galactus? Let us know in the comments below!</i></p> Fri, 10 May 2024 10:11:44 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122600 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/10/xbox-president-addresses-bethesda-studio-closures-says-its-about-keeping-business <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/prod-media.gameinformer.com/styles/body_default/s3/2018/06/10/f95762be/bethesda-site.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="bethesda xbox president sarah bond closures tango gameworks arkane austin redfall hi-fi rush" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Earlier this week, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/07/xbox-is-shutting-down-arkane-austin-tango-gameworks-and-more">Xbox closed four Bethesda studios</a>, including <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/redfall/a-life-draining-trip-to-new-england">Redfall</a> developer Arkane Austin and Tango Gameworks, the team behind last year's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/hi-fi-rush/riff-city">Hi-Fi Rush</a>. While each of the four studios affected, which also included Mighty Doom developer Alpha Dog Games and Bethesda support studio Roundhouse Games, released a statement about the closures, Xbox remained silent. </p> <p>However, four days later, <em>Bloomberg's </em>Dina Bass interviewed Xbox president Sarah Bond and asked her about the Bethesda closures, to which Bond cited a desire to keep the Xbox business healthy in the long term, even through hard transition periods. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oIpc8VZ3Bnw" width="640"></iframe> <p>Here's what Bond said: </p> "It's always extraordinarily hard when you have to make decisions like that. I'll go back to what I was saying about the industry, and when we look at those fundamental trends, we feel a deep responsibility to ensure that the games we make, the devices we build, the services that we offer are there through moments, even when the industry isn't growing and when you're through a time of transition. And the news we announced earlier this week is an outcome of that and our commitment to make sure that the business is healthy for the long term.  "With that said, our commitment to having our own studios and working with partners to have games large and small – we're a platform where you can play [Grand Theft Auto], but you can also play Palworld, or you can play Call of Duty or you can play Pentiment, that doesn't change. And frankly, our commitment to Bethesda and the role that it plays is a part of Xbox and everything we do.  "It's actually been pretty fantastic. I don't know if you've gotten a chance to check it out. The Fallout TV show was on Amazon, and it's been great to see people fall in love with that universe but also what it's done for the games themselves, and people going back and exploring everything inside of that. There are some other great things that are coming from our studios later this year. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle – I was a big Indy fan growing up – so you should check that out. But really right now, for us and our teams, our focus is on the people impacted and doing everything that we can do to help them through this hard transition." <p>Bass then asked Bond specifically about the closure of Tango Gameworks after Hi-Fi Rush, which by <a href="https://x.com/aarongreenberg/status/1649431572137779203">Xbox's own admitted metrics</a>, was a big success. Bond's answer here was less straightforward – you can read it below in full: </p> "One of the things I really love about the games industry is it's a creative art form, and it means that the situation and what successes for each game and studio is also really unique. There's no one-size-fits-all to it for us. And so we look at each studio, each game team, and we look at a whole variety of factors when we're faced with making decisions and trade-offs like that. But it all comes back to our long-term commitment to the games we create, the devices we build, the services, and ensuring we're setting ourselves up to be able to deliver on those promises." <p>While it's great that Bond addressed these closures at Xbox, it still lacks the clarity you'd expect from one of the biggest companies in the games industry. Neither Microsoft nor Xbox, including Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer, has yet to address the layoffs and closures in an official capacity beyond this.</p> <p>For more, read about how <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/08/redfall-was-reportedly-set-to-receive-a-big-offline-play-update-this-month-before">Redfall was reportedly set to receive a big offline play update this month</a> before Xbox shut down Arkane Austin, and then read about how <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/09/xbox-reportedly-considering-bringing-senuas-saga-hellblade-ii-to-ps5">Xbox is reportedly considering bringing Senua's Saga: Hellblade II to PlayStation 5</a>. After that, check out this story about how <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/09/more-job-cuts-at-xbox-are-reportedly-on-the-way">more job cuts at Xbox are reportedly on the way</a>, and then read about how the company is debating <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/09/xbox-reportedly-debating-putting-call-of-duty-on-game-pass-alongside-price-hike">putting Call of Duty on Xbox Game Pass alongside a price hike</a>. </p> <p><em>What do you think of Bond's answers? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Fri, 10 May 2024 09:05:35 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122599 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/09/lightforge-games-suffers-significant-layoffs-dd-inspired-project-orcs-development-paused <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/09/6ff79ed8/projectorcs1.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Lightforge Games is indefinitely pausing work on its upcoming RPG Project O.R.C.S. The team has been reduced to a skeleton crew as the few remaining staff members look to determine their next course of action.</p> <p>In a <a href="https://www.lightforge.gg/news/the-future-of-project-orcs">message</a> posted to the game’s website and social media channels yesterday, Lightforge cites a lack of publisher funding as the reason it no longer has the means to continue work on Project O.R.C.S. To minimize any prolonged struggle, the team decided to immediately pull the plug. </p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="zxx"><a href="https://t.co/5D8Fp72J7b">pic.twitter.com/5D8Fp72J7b</a></p> — Project O.R.C.S. by Lightforge Games (@lightforgegames) <a href="https://twitter.com/lightforgegames/status/1788258778346864939?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>“We’re making this call now so that we can provide support to our wonderful team of devs: providing them with time to stabilize, working together to help folks as they re-enter the job market, and finding new positions to continue our passion for making games," says Lightforge in the statement. </p> <p>In the coming days, the team will shut down its Discord and social channels. After that, the remaining staff will “determine what a viable path may be for the project and studio.”</p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ypiv61tvPMI" width="640"></iframe> <p>Lightforge was formed in 2020 as a remote-only studio made up of former Blizzard and Epic (mainly Fortnite) developers. According to its <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/lightforgegames/">LinkedIn page</a>, it hired between 11 and 50 staff members with a goal to "change how the world plays RPGs."</p> <p>Project O.R.C.S. was Lightforge's first project, first revealed only three months ago in February. The ambitious RPG aimed to combine world-building and collaborative storytelling of tabletop role-playing games with traditional co-op gameplay. Players crafted their fantasy world using a built-in game editor and then embarked on quests within it. It was more or less a "build-your-own Dungeons & Dragons", dice rolls and all, hence why "O.R.C.S." stood for "Online Roleplaying with Collaborative Storytelling”. With the game all but canceled, it's unclear if Project O.R.C.S. will ever see the light of day. </p> <p>Unfortunately, Lightforge isn't the only small studio to suffer from the drying well of video game investment funding. Deliver Us Mars developer Keoken Interactive was recently forced to <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/02/deliver-us-mars-developer-keoken-interactive-lays-off-nearly-entire-staff">lay off nearly its entire staff </a>for the same reason. The industry has been a wounded state over the past year and a half, with Microsoft <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/07/xbox-is-shutting-down-arkane-austin-tango-gameworks-and-more">shuttering Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin</a> earlier this week and over 10,000 layoffs occurring this year alone. </p> <p style="margin-left:-16px; margin-right:-8px; margin-bottom:-12px"> </p> <p style="margin-left:-16px; margin-right:-8px; margin-bottom:-12px"> </p> Thu, 09 May 2024 14:27:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 122593 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/09/stray-gods-orpheus-gives-the-role-playing-musical-a-dlc-encore <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/07/d145883b/orpheus_key_art_-_2650_x_1440.jpg" width="800" height="435" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Stray Gods: The Role-Playing Musical, <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="c59d1d9c-1d26-4fe4-bfc0-912acb972247" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/stray-gods-the-roleplaying-musical/hades-meets-hadestown">a creative and ambitious attempt to fuse musical theatre with interactive fiction</a>, launched last August, but that's not the last time fans will get to experience that modern take on Greek myth. Announced today at LudoNarraCon, the game is getting DLC called Stray Gods: Orpheus, which follows the titular character through a new adventure. Check out the reveal trailer below.</p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3Mdp7EbRp-w" width="640"></iframe> <p>Orpheus (played by <em>Rent </em>star Anthony Rapp) appeared in the base game, but only briefly, so this expansion will give players a better idea of his backstory and personality. The trailer also features Hermes (played by Erika Ishii), though their exact role in the DLC isn't clarified. The experience is roughly two hours long with six new interactive tracks and features some returning songwriters, including Austin Wintory, Simon Hall, and Montaigne, but also adds comedic musician Tom Cardy to the mix.</p> <p>As for the plot, the following excerpt from a press release explains what to expect. "When the curtain has fallen and the show is over, who do you go home as?" it reads. "Choose to reject, embrace, or rewrite the stories the world expects of you. Is the mortal world ready for the return of Ancient Greece’s most infamous bard?"</p> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/07/34451685/environmental_screenshot.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/07/547188e2/hermes_and_orpheus.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/07/7444262c/orpheus_charon_playing_chess.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/07/de3bf066/orpheus_and_hermes_at_the_door.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/07/00a6439b/orpheus_and_hermes_streetside.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/07/cb76f320/orpheus_performing_live.jpg'></figure></section>   <p>Stray Gods: Orpheus hits PC on June 27, with a console release date "coming soon." For more Stray Gods, <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="d755a020-36a7-45c4-a70e-f63556e5cb9b" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2023/08/08/how-the-stray-gods-team-wrote-a-musical-with-millions-of-variations">check out our feature on how it was made</a>. For more Greek mythology, visit our <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="b435a0ab-2d81-45ef-aec6-d16f9dedb4ac" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/hades2">Hades II coverage hub</a> for this month's exclusive coverage.</p> Thu, 09 May 2024 12:00:00 CDT Charles Harte 122572 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/09/warner-bros-discovery-boss-calls-suicide-squad-kill-the-justice-leagues-release <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/04/09/53201fda/suicide-squad-kill-the-justice-league-screenshot.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="suicide squad kill the justice league discover warner bros disappointing financials sales" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav said Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League's release was "disappointing" for the company. He said this during Warner Bros. Discovery's Q1 financial results call, noting its games revenue declined a lot compared to last year, as reported by <a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/suicide-squad-kill-the-justice-league-flop-leads-to-200-million-impairment-charge-warner-bros-confirms"><em>IGN</em></a>. </p> <p><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/suicide-squad-kill-the-justice-league">Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League</a> was likely never going to perform well for Warner Bros. Discovery's gaming division compared to the sector's revenue last year, which was anchored in the release of <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/hogwarts-legacy/a-potion-well-brewed">Hogwarts Legacy</a>, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/08/hogwarts-legacy-has-sold-more-than-22-million-copies-in-less-than-a-year">the best-selling game of 2023</a> and the first non-Call of Duty game to take that spot in years. Still, as critics and players will tell you, Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League was a disappointing release from Rocksteady Studios, the team behind the Batman: Arkham series – you can read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/suicide-squad-kill-the-justice-league/noise-and-confusion"><em>Game Informer's </em>Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League review here</a> to find out why we gave it a 6 out of 10. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/t1Y4AABAk5c" width="640"></iframe> <p>After Zaslav called the game disappointing, Warner Bros. Discovery chief financial officer Gunnar Wiedenfels added, "Starting with studios, the $400 million-plus year-over-year decline during Q1 was primarily due to the very tough [competition] we faced in games against the success of Hogwarts Legacy last year in the first quarter, in conjunction with the disappointing Suicide Squad release this past quarter, which we impaired, leading to a $200 million impact to EBITDA [earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization] during the first quarter." </p> <p>That's a lot of money lost, and given the state of the games industry this year, it's hard not to worry about the status of Rocksteady post-Suicide Squad. With studios closing left and right, and more than 10,000 employees laid off this year in the games industry, it wouldn't be surprising (however heartbreaking) to see Rocksteady go through job cuts. Here's hoping they don't. </p> <p>For more about the game, listen to <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/spoiled/2024/04/09/a-spoiler-filled-discussion-of-suicide-squad-kill-the-justice-league"><em>Game Informer's </em>spoiler-filled breakdown of Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League</a>, and then <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/03/06/jokers-debut-in-suicide-squad-kill-the-justice-league-gets-release-date-as-warner">read about the Joker's debut as a playable character</a>. </p> <p><em>[Source: <a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/suicide-squad-kill-the-justice-league-flop-leads-to-200-million-impairment-charge-warner-bros-confirms">IGN</a>]</em></p> <p><em>Are you still playing Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Thu, 09 May 2024 09:15:37 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122591 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/09/more-job-cuts-at-xbox-are-reportedly-on-the-way <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/01/25/22c03d32/xbox_microsoft_activision_zenimax_layoffs.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="More Xbox Cuts Layoffs Studio Closures Bethesda On The Way" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>More cuts at Xbox are reportedly on the way, with some staff at ZeniMax getting offered voluntary severance agreements this week. This news comes from a <i><a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-05-08/xbox-studio-closures-microsoft-plans-more-cost-cutting-measures-after-layoffs?srnd=undefined&embedded-checkout=true">Bloomberg</a> </i>report that says employees across the Xbox organization have been told to expect more cuts. </p> <p>These potential layoffs would follow <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/07/xbox-is-shutting-down-arkane-austin-tango-gameworks-and-more#:~:text=Tango%20Gameworks%20%E2%80%93%20Tango%20Gameworks%20will,ZeniMax%20Online%20Studios%20(ZOS).">Xbox's decision to shutter four Bethesda studios</a> earlier this week, including <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/hi-fi-rush/riff-city">Hi-Fi Rush</a> team Tango Gameworks and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/redfall/a-life-draining-trip-to-new-england">Redfall</a> developer Arkane Austin. As for the staff offered voluntary severance agreements, <em>Bloomberg </em>reports that producers, quality assurance testers, and other staff at ZeniMax are receiving them. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/r6f0rnanog8" width="640"></iframe> <p>The publication also reports the reason Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin were shut down this week is that they were in the process of pitching new projects and hiring additional staff for said projects, something suggested by ZeniMax head Jill Braff and Xbox president Matt Booty during a town hall held this week. Xbox and ZeniMax chose to shut these studios down – both in the beginning processes of creating new games – instead of closing a studio deeper in development on projects. </p> <p>Elsewhere in <i>Bloomberg's </i>report, which details an internal town hall held at Xbox following the studio closures this week, Booty reportedly described its studios as spread too thin, like "peanut butter on bread," and that leaders across the company felt understaffed. Xbox closed three studios and had ZeniMax Online Studios absorb Roundhouse Games to free up resources. Braff said during the meeting, "It's hard to support nine studios all across the world with a lean central team with an ever-growing plate of things to do. I think we were about to topple over." </p> <p>These studio closures follow the January layoffs of 1,900 employees at Xbox, Activision Blizzard, and ZeniMax, which add to the total of more than 10,000 laid off in the games industry just this year. </p> <p><em>[Source: <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-05-08/xbox-studio-closures-microsoft-plans-more-cost-cutting-measures-after-layoffs?srnd=undefined&embedded-checkout=true">Bloomberg</a>]</em></p> <p><i>How do you feel about Xbox? Let us know in the comments below!</i></p> Thu, 09 May 2024 08:45:55 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122590 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/09/xbox-reportedly-considering-bringing-senuas-saga-hellblade-ii-to-ps5 <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/09/cbc39502/hellblade-ii-senuas-saga.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Senua's Saga: Hellblade II PlayStation 5 Release PS5 Xbox Series X/S Ninja Theory" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Senua's Saga: Hellblade II <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/xbox-developer-direct/2024/01/18/senuas-saga-hellblade-ii-releases-in-may">hits Xbox Series X/S and PC later this month on May 21</a>. However, its release arrives at a rocky period for Xbox, which just shuttered four Bethesda studios, including <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/hi-fi-rush/riff-city">Hi-Fi Rush</a> team Tango Gameworks and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/redfall/a-life-draining-trip-to-new-england">Redfall</a> developer Arkane Austin. As a result, Xbox players have wondered how safe Hellblade II developer Ninja Theory might be after its sequel's release, given Hi-Fi Rush was a <a href="https://x.com/aarongreenberg/status/1649431572137779203">"break out hit"</a> for the company but wasn't enough to keep Tango open. </p> <p>Perhaps to help boost Hellblade II's sales, Xbox is reportedly considering bringing the game to PlayStation 5, according to <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/8/24151814/microsoft-xbox-layoffs-strategy-changes-arkane-tango"><em>The Verge</em></a>. The publication's Tom Warren writes, "I understand Hellblade II is another game that Microsoft has been considering for the PS5. If that ever happens, at this point, it's not clear if even that would be considered a success." </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3VYGOkMnGCE" width="640"></iframe> <p>Hellblade II coming to PS5 wouldn't be out of left field, considering Xbox has brought previously exclusive games like <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/grounded">Grounded</a>, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/sea-of-thieves">Sea of Thieves</a>, and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/hi-fi-rush">Hi-Fi Rush</a> to PS5 this year. However, with the launch of Hellblade II happening in just a few weeks, it seems if it does come to PS5, it will be post-launch, which lines up with Xbox's strategy in this realm thus far. </p> <p>Senua's Saga: Hellblade II hits Xbox Series X/S and PC on May 21, 2024. </p> <p>For more about the game, check out the <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/03/here-are-the-senuas-saga-hellblade-ii-pc-specs-and-system-requirements">Senua's Saga: Hellblade II PC specs and system requirements</a>, and then read about how <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/04/04/senuas-saga-hellblade-ii-locked-to-30-fps-on-xbox-series-xs-according-to-vfx">Senua's Saga: Hellblade II will be locked to 30 FPS on Xbox Series X/S</a>. After that, read about how the game will have a <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/03/15/senuas-saga-hellblade-ii-will-have-photo-mode-new-screenshots-revealed">photo mode at launch</a>. </p> <p><em>[Source: <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/8/24151814/microsoft-xbox-layoffs-strategy-changes-arkane-tango">The Verge</a>]</em></p> <p><em>Do you hope Xbox brings Senua's Saga: Hellblade II to PS5? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Thu, 09 May 2024 08:03:20 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122589 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/09/xbox-reportedly-debating-putting-call-of-duty-on-game-pass-alongside-price-hike <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2023/11/02/c66b047b/best_graphics_mode_visual_settings_call_of_duty_modern_warfare_iii.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Call of Duty Modern Warfare Black Ops Treyarch Xbox Microsoft Not Sure Game Pass Day One" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Microsoft is reportedly debating putting Call of Duty on Xbox Game Pass alongside a price hike to the subscription service. This comes from a new report at <em><a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/8/24151814/microsoft-xbox-layoffs-strategy-changes-arkane-tango">The Verge</a> </em>that follows news earlier this week that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/07/xbox-is-shutting-down-arkane-austin-tango-gameworks-and-more#:~:text=Tango%20Gameworks%20%E2%80%93%20Tango%20Gameworks%20will,ZeniMax%20Online%20Studios%20(ZOS).">Xbox was closing some of its Bethesda studios</a>, including <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/hi-fi-rush/riff-city">Hi-Fi Rush</a> team Tango Gameworks and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/redfall/a-life-draining-trip-to-new-england">Redfall</a> developer Arkane Austin. </p> <p><em>The Verge's</em> Tom Warren writes, "Microsoft has also had internal debates about whether to put new releases of Call of Duty into Game Pass. I understand this is a debate that has been ongoing internally for quite some time, with concerns from some that the revenue that Call of Duty typically generates for Activision Blizzard will be undermined by Game Pass." </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UtTd3_2WjEg" width="640"></iframe> <p>This touches on a potential issues players and analysts have pointed out with Xbox's strategy. <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/10/13/microsoft-has-officially-acquired-activision-blizzard-for-69-billion">After spending billions on acquisitions in recent years</a>, Xbox presumably needs to make more money. However, it's big draw as a platform is Game Pass. Ideally, big new releases and critical hits, like Hi-Fi Rush and Call of Duty games, bring in large swaths of new subscribers, which offsets the loss of full-price sales that happens because of Game Pass. But Game Pass subscriptions have leveled off, with a peak around 2019 to 2021. If Game Pass isn't getting new subscribers, and Game Pass releases hurt traditional sales of a game, it's easy to see why the company might be debating internally about whether or not something like a new Call of Duty (almost always the best-selling game of any given year) should launch on Game Pass. </p> <p>Alongside this debate, <em>The Verge's </em>report states Microsoft has also considered increasing the price of Game Pass Ultimate again, noting that this and the Call of Duty discussion are just considerations and might remain that. </p> <p>For more, read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/call-of-duty-modern-warfare-iii/not-so-special-ops"><em>Game Informer's </em>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III review</a>, and then read about <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/04/30/xbox-games-showcase-announced-for-june-followed-by-a-secret-direct-for-a-beloved">Xbox's June games showcase and the secret (probably Call of Duty-focused) direct</a> happening afterward.  </p> <p><em>[Source: <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/8/24151814/microsoft-xbox-layoffs-strategy-changes-arkane-tango">The Verge</a>]</em></p> <p><em>How do you feel about Xbox's strategy as of late? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Thu, 09 May 2024 07:40:01 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122588 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/08/the-joker-voiced-by-mark-hamill-joins-multiversus <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/08/ce8204d1/multiversus-joker.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="MultiVersus The Joker Mark Hamill" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>MultiVersus makes its <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/03/11/multiversus-is-back-in-action-this-may">grand return</a> on May 28, and a new trailer reveals that the Joker is joining the roster. Even better, Mark Hamill is voicing the Clown Prince of Crime once more.</p> <p>Though we don’t see gameplay, a cinematic trailer sets up a dramatic confrontation (and likely emotional reunion for fans) between Batman, voiced in the game by the late Kevin Conroy, and his archnemesis. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2FmWxARNT18" width="640"></iframe> <p>This marks the first game to feature both Batman: The Animated Series actors together as their respective characters since 2018’s <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/lego-dc-super-villains/its-quite-good-to-be-bad">Lego DC Super Villans</a>. Conroy passed away in 2022, and prior to 2024's Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, MultiVersus was the final game to feature his Batman performance. Following his death, Hamill had alluded to <a href="https://screenrant.com/batman-joker-mark-hamill-return-no-explained/">retiring the Joker</a> role for good. However, dataminers uncovered Joker’s existence in MultiVersus in 2022 and found audio files revealing Hamill’s performance. This means he likely recorded his lines before Conroy’s passing. </p> <p>Joker is the first new character to join the existing line-up of fighters, but he won't be the last. We're curious to see who else joins the fray after MultiVersus re-launches on May 28 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. </p> Wed, 08 May 2024 14:39:00 CDT Marcus Stewart 122586 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/08/sonic-rumble-is-a-32-player-mobile-platforming-battle-royale-coming-this-winter <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/08/1afec4f0/sonic_rumble_header.jpg" width="800" height="427" alt="Sonic Rumble iOS Android mobile battle royale 32 player the hedgehog shadow" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Sega has revealed Sonic Rumble, a 32-player mobile platforming battle royale, and it's coming this winter. As is par for the course of battle royale-type games, Sonic Rumble puts 32 players against each other competing on various levels and obstacle courses to remain the last person standing. </p> <p>In the reveal trailer, it's clear players control various characters from the universe of Sega's Sonic the Hedgehog series, including Sonic, of course, Tails, Knuckles, Shadow, Amy, Dr. Eggman, and presumably more. As you play, you collect rings and these are used to customize your characters in special outfits and more. </p> <p><strong>Check it out for yourself in the Sonic Rumble announce trailer below</strong>: </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Em6-SjjaYQE" width="640"></iframe> <p>There's no release date for Sonic Rumble yet, but Sega says it's releasing this Winter. Given it's a mobile game, it's expected to hit iOS and Android. If you're interested in trying the game out, <a href="https://sonicrumble.sega.com/">you can sign up for beta tests right now</a>. </p> <p>For more about everyone's favorite blue blur, read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/sonic-frontiers/into-the-wild-blue-yonder"><em>Game Informer's </em>Sonic Frontiers review</a>, and then read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/sonic-superstars/the-folly-of-teamwork"><em>Game Informer's </em>Sonic Superstars review</a>. After that, watch <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/video-feature/2024/04/08/sonic-the-hedgehogs-takashi-iizuka-reflects-on-segas-road-to-the-dreamcast"><em>Game Informer's </em>exclusive video interview with Sonic's Takashi Iizuka</a> about Sega's road to the Dreamcast. </p> <p><em>Are you going to play Sonic Rumble later this year? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Wed, 08 May 2024 11:44:45 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122584 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/08/nintendo-world-championships-nes-edition-hits-switch-in-july-with-150-speedrun <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/08/7fc99e21/nes_header.jpg" width="800" height="397" alt="Nintendo World Championship NES Edition Speedrunning Switch July 18" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Nintendo has revealed Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition, a game designed around speedrunning challenges and more across 13 classic NES games. Set to hit Switch on July 18, Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition features more than 150 challenges to complete, and you can compete for top spots on global online leaderboards or with friends. </p> <p>Nintendo revealed this compilation title with a trailer that pulls heavy on the Nintendo World Championship nostalgia, with previous winners appearing, footage from old competitions, and more throughout. </p> <p><strong>Check out the Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition announcement trailer for yourself below</strong>: </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ELmBYBga5SY" width="640"></iframe> <p>As you can see, challenges in the game include reaching the Super Mushroom as fast as you can in Super Mario Bros., defeating the Octorocks the fastest in The Legend of Zelda, and reaching a specified gate as quickly as possible in Metroid. And those are just three of the 150+ challenges available in the game, spread across 13 NES games. </p> <p>Each week, you can compete for the top spot in the World Championships Weekly  Global Online leaderboards, or you can compete against up to seven friends in the local eight-player Party Mode. </p> <p>"With 'byte-sized' challenges and an automatic rewind feature, you don't need to master entire games to feel like a Nintendo World Champion," the trailer's description reads. </p> <p>Alongside today's reveal, Nintendo has also unveiled a Deluxe Set for Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition. It includes collectible items, like art cards, a golden NES cartridge, and a physical game card.  </p> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/08/886bd203/nes_deluxe_edition_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/08/3012ffd1/nes_deluxe_edition.jpg'></figure></section>   <p>Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition hits Switch on July 18, 2024. The Deluxe Set will cost $59.99, and the digital eShop version will cost $29.99. </p> <p><em>Are you going to pick this game up? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Wed, 08 May 2024 09:25:04 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122579 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/08/destiny-2s-shadowkeep-beyond-light-and-witch-queen-expansions-are-free-until-the <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2020/11/25/b6126379/d2_beyond_light_launch_press_kit_gear_compressed_01.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Destiny 2 Expansion Open Access The Final Shape Shadowkeep Beyond Light Witch Queen" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/destiny-2-the-final-shape">Destiny 2: The Final Shape</a> is set to wrap up the decade-long War of Light and Darkness story arc when <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2023/11/27/destiny-2-the-final-shape-delayed-to-june">it launches on June 4</a>, but ahead of that, developer Bungie is giving players an easy way to catch up on previous expansions. Unveiled yesterday under the initiative name "Expansion Open Access," all Destiny 2 players can access and play through the game's Shadowkeep (2019), Beyond Light (2020), and The Witch Queen (2022) expansions. </p> <p>"Prepare for The Final Shape with three epic campaigns and earn an arsenal of exotic and legendary gear," the Expansion Open Access trailer's description reads. And speaking of trailer, <strong>check out the Destiny 2 Expansion Open Access trailer for yourself below</strong>: </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yb80CvCeBjE" width="640"></iframe> <p>Now, of course, these three aren't the only Destiny 2 expansions but they're the only ones currently available to play through in the game. As such, it might be smart to watch a playthrough or read a narrative summary of all expansions released before The Final Shape next month. </p> <p><strong>Here's every Destiny 2 expansion/DLC released since the game's launch</strong>: </p> <ul> <li>Curse of Osiris (2017)</li> <li>Warmind (2018)</li> <li>Forsaken (2018)</li> <li>Shadowkeep (2019)</li> <li>Beyond Light (2020)</li> <li>The Witch Queen (2022)</li> <li>Lightfall (2023)</li> </ul> <p>The Destiny 2 Expansion Open Access period lasts from now until June 3. If you're a PlayStation Plus subscriber, you also currently have access to Lightfall, making now a perfect time to catch up. </p> <p>For more, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/08/22/destiny-2-bungie-pulls-back-the-curtain-on-the-final-shape-expansion-and-season-of">watch the Destiny 2: The Final Shape reveal trailer here</a>, and then check out this breakdown of <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/04/09/destiny-2-the-final-shape-includes-new-prismatic-subclass-enemy-faction-exotics-and">The Final Shape's new prismatic subclass, enemy faction, exotics, and more</a>. </p> <p><em>Are you going to play through these expansions before The Final Shape next month? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Wed, 08 May 2024 07:55:49 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122577 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/08/redfall-was-reportedly-set-to-receive-a-big-offline-play-update-this-month-before <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2022/06/15/ca1b9e3a/n5kzvvq5bvry3txpcgeehj.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Redfall Arkane Austin closed shutdown dlc roadmap update " typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Arkane Austin was reportedly set to release a big Redfall update this month that would have added offline play to the always-online game before Microsoft suddenly shut the studio down, according to <a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/arkane-austin-redfall-update-closure-xbox?utm_source=twitter"><i>IGN</i></a>. This follows yesterday's news that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/07/xbox-is-shutting-down-arkane-austin-tango-gameworks-and-more">Microsoft was shutting down</a> Arkane Austin, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/hi-fi-rush/riff-city">Hi-Fi Rush</a> developer Tango Gameworks, Mighty Doom studio Alpha Dog Games, and absorbing Roundhouse Games into ZeniMax Online Studios.</p> <p>This offline play update would have addressed one of players' biggest complaints with the game – that Redfall always requires a connection to the internet – but now that update will never see the light of day. It's an especially concerning detail considering now that Arkane Austin is closed, the day when Redfall servers are no longer live, rendering the game unplayable, seems closer than ever before. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NqJMhCTo4Tw" width="640"></iframe> <p><em>IGN</em> also reports that it was told the now-canceled Hero Pass, which would have added two additional playable characters to Redfall, was scheduled for release around Halloween. It obviously won't be released now – Bethesda says those who purchased the Hero Pass will be eligible "to receive the value of the upgrade" – but if it had hit the game around Halloween, that would have been roughly 18 months after Redfall's launch. </p> <p>Redfall hit Xbox Series X/S and PC on May 2 to poor reviews from critics – <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/redfall/a-life-draining-trip-to-new-england">read <em>Game Informer's </em>review here</a> – and players alike, and the first-person multiplayer vampire shooter failed to recover, with Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer saying, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2023/05/04/xbox-head-phil-spencer-opens-up-about-redfalls-disappointing-launch-im-upset-with-myself">"I'm upset with myself," when asked about its launch</a>.</p> <p>According to reports, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/06/01/some-arkane-staff-reportedly-hoped-microsoft-might-cancel-redfall-or-reboot-it-as">some of Arkane Austin's staff hoped Microsoft might cancel Redfall</a> or reboot it as a single player game, following the former's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2020/09/21/microsoft-acquires-bethesda-the-studio-behind-fallout-the-elder-scrolls-doom-and-more">acquisition of ZeniMax Media in 2020 for $7.5 billion</a>. Arkane Austin director Harvey Smith said <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2023/03/23/redfall-microsoft-canceled-ps5-version-after-bethesda-acquisition-arkane-director-says">Microsoft canceled a PlayStation 5 version of Redfall</a> following this acquisition. </p> <p><em>[Source: <a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/arkane-austin-redfall-update-closure-xbox?utm_source=twitter">IGN</a>]</em></p> <p><em>How do you feel about Microsoft shutting down Arkane Austin? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Wed, 08 May 2024 07:02:46 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122576 https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/07/marvel-snaps-may-2024-season-takes-a-turn-for-the-multiverse-with-blink-and-the-exiles <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/05/07/e491f990/a-blink-in-time-banner.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>The success of Marvel Snap rolls on, as does the seasonal structure of the free-to-play, deck-building card-battler from Second Dinner. Recent seasons have been themed after corners of the Marvel Universe, like Avengers vs. X-Men or Thunderbolts, but this season leans a bit more into the Marvel Multiverse with Blink and the Exiles. This season, titled "A Blink in Time," introduces five new characters, two new locations, and more.</p> <p>The new characters joining the game in A Blink in Time are as follows:</p> <ul><li><strong>Blink</strong> (5 Cost, 7 Power) <ul><li>On reveal, swap the last card you played with a higher-cost card from your deck.</li> </ul></li> <li><strong>Nocturne</strong> (3 Cost, 5 Power) <ul><li>You can move this once. When this moves, replace its location with a random new one.</li> </ul></li> <li><strong>Sage</strong> (3 Cost, 0 Power) <ul><li>On reveal, +2 power for each different power among all other cards here.</li> </ul></li> <li><strong>Namora</strong> (5 Cost, 6 Power) <ul><li>On reveal, give +5 power to each of your cards alone at another location.</li> </ul></li> <li><strong>Sasquatch</strong> (6 Cost, 10 Power) <ul><li>Costs 1 less for each card you played last turn.</li> </ul></li> </ul> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/07/cdd7137c/blink_card.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/07/e19dab71/namora_card.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/07/561beccf/nocturne_card.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/07/d5767992/sage_card.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/entity_browser_thumbnail/public/2024/05/07/76e8c7ae/sasquatch_card.jpg'></figure></section>   <p>On top of those all-new characters joining Marvel Snap collections, there are two new locations: Panoptichron, where cards that didn't start in your deck get +2 power, and Cancun, where power at that location doesn't count toward winning the game. New albums featuring Dan Hipp and Rian Gonzales also further incentivize Variant collections by rewarding items themed after Werewolf By Night, Silk, and Iron Lad. Finally, we know the dates of the Series 5 releases of this season. Baron Zemo and Nocturne get their Series 5 release on May 7, Sage arrives on May 14, Namora on May 21, and Sasquatch on May 28.</p> <p>Marvel Snap's May season, A Blink in Time, kicks off today. For more on Marvel Snap, check out <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="a49bcd85-a451-4a5f-95cd-d065b3b17c31" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/opinion/2022/10/27/i-wish-more-mobile-games-were-like-marvel-snap">Charles Harte's opinion piece</a> from when the game originally arrived on mobile devices.</p> Tue, 07 May 2024 14:00:00 CDT Brian Shea 122520 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/07/xbox-is-shutting-down-arkane-austin-tango-gameworks-and-more <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2023/05/08/6a9d2d44/redfall-review-game-informer.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Xbox closes Bethesda studios Arkane Austin Tango Gameworks hi-fi rush redfall" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Xbox is closing Arkane Austin, Tango Gameworks, and more under Bethesda, according to <a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/microsoft-closes-redfall-developer-arkane-austin-hifi-rush-developer-tango-gameworks-and-more-in-devastating-cuts-at-bethesda"><i>IGN</i></a>. Alpha Dog Games, which is behind last year's mobile Mighty Doom, is being closed as well, according to the report. Roundhouse Games is also affected, but it will be absorbed by The Elder Scrolls Online team ZeniMax Online Studios. </p> <p>Tango has confirmed the news online, with a thank you to its fans: </p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="zxx"><a href="https://t.co/KhhqgR902g">pic.twitter.com/KhhqgR902g</a></p> — Tango Gameworks (EN) (@TangoGameworks) <a href="https://twitter.com/TangoGameworks/status/1787837929332601189?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>Arkane Austin has followed suit, confirming the news online as well alongside word that players who purchased Redfall's Hero Pass will be eligible "to receive the value of the upgrade." Here's the studio's statement: </p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Signup here <a href="https://t.co/wb1R4m4emj">https://t.co/wb1R4m4emj</a> to receive details on how eligible players can receive this credit. <a href="https://t.co/69Os17kpQ8">pic.twitter.com/69Os17kpQ8</a></p> — Arkane Studios (@ArkaneStudios) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArkaneStudios/status/1787837804287860886?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>These closures arrive after Tango delivered the extremely well-received <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/hi-fi-rush/riff-city">Hi-Fi Rush</a> last year a few months before Arkane Austin released <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/redfall/a-life-draining-trip-to-new-england">Redfall</a>, which unfortunately didn't pan out as expected, with both critics and fans disappointed in the first-person vampire shooter from the studio behind the <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/dishonored_2/b/playstation4/archive/2016/11/14/game-informer-dishonored-2-review.aspx">Dishonored series</a>. </p> <p><em>IGN </em>learned of these closures in emails sent to staff by Xbox Game Studios head Matt Booty, where the executive cited reprioritization as the reason for the closures. Here is the email, in full: </p> "Today, I'm sharing changes we are making to our Bethesda and ZeniMax teams. These changes are grounded in prioritizing high-impact titles and further investing in Bethesda’s portfolio of blockbuster games and beloved worlds which you have nurtured over many decades.  To double down on these franchises and invest to build new ones requires us to look across the business to identify the opportunities that are best positioned for success. This reprioritization of titles and resources means a few teams will be realigned to others and that some of our colleagues will be leaving us. Here are the changes going into effect: Arkane Austin – This studio will close with some members of the team joining other studios to work on projects across Bethesda. Arkane Austin has a history of making impactful and innovative games and it is a pedigree that everyone should be proud of. Redfall’s previous update will be its last as we end all development on the game. The game and its servers will remain online for players to enjoy and we will provide make-good offers to players who purchased the Hero DLC. Alpha Dog Studios – This studio will also close. We appreciate the team’s creativity in bringing Doom to new players. Mighty Doom will be sunset on August 7 and we will be turning off the ability for players to make any purchases in the game. Tango Gameworks – Tango Gameworks will also close. We are thankful for their contributions to Bethesda and players around the world. Hi-Fi Rush will continue to be available to players on the platforms it is today. Roundhouse Games – The team at Roundhouse Games will be joining ZeniMax Online Studios (ZOS). Roundhouse has played a key role in many of our recent game launches and bringing them into ZOS to work on The Elder Scrolls Online will mean we can do even more to grow the world that millions of players call home. With this consolidation of our Bethesda studio teams, so that we can invest more deeply in our portfolio of games and new IP, a small number of roles across select Bethesda publishing and corporate teams will also be eliminated. Those whose roles will be impacted will be notified today, and we ask that you please treat your departing colleagues with respect and compassion. We will provide our full support to those who are impacted in today’s notifications and through their transitions, including severance benefits informed by local laws. These changes are not a reflection of the creativity and skill of the talented individuals at these teams or the risks they took to try new things. I acknowledge that these changes are also disruptive to the various support teams across ZeniMax and Bethesda that bring our games to market. We are making these tough decisions to create capacity to increase investment in other parts of our portfolio and focus on our priority games. Bethesda remains one of the key pillars of Xbox with a strong portfolio of amazing games and thriving communities. As we look to the future, there is an impressive line-up of games on the horizon. In 2024 alone we have Starfield Shattered Space, Fallout 76 Skyline Valley, Indiana Jones and The Great Circle, and The Elder Scrolls Online’s Golden Road. As we align our plans and resources to best set ourselves up for success in this complex and changing industry, our teams across Arkane Lyon, Bethesda Game Studios, id Software, MachineGames, ZeniMax Online Studios and the Bethesda publishing and corporate teams will be well-positioned to build new IP, explore new game concepts, and expand on our existing franchises." <p><em>Game Informer </em>has reached out to Xbox and Bethesda for comment and will update this story if it learns more. </p> <p>Arkane Austin is one half of the Bethesda-owned Arkane Studios, the other half being Arkane Lyon. Both studios often work together on Arkane games, but Arkane Austin led the charge on titles like Redfall and 2017's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/prey/b/playstation4/archive/2017/05/06/somewhere-beyond-the-stars.aspx#:~:text=I%20was%20surprised%20at%20how,it%20doesn't%20erase%20them.">Prey</a> while Arkane Lyon is behind 2021's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/deathloop/deathloop-review-the-joys-of-death-and-dying">Deathloop</a> and the in-development <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/the-game-awards-2023/2023/12/07/marvels-blade-is-coming-from-the-makers-of-deathloop-and-dishonored">Marvel's Blade</a> game. </p> <p>Arkane Lyon studio director and Marvel's Blade creative director Dinga Bakaba posted on X (formerly Twitter) shortly after news of Arkane Austin's closing hit the internet to explain his frustration and sadness: </p> <p>"This is absolutely terrible," Bakaba <a href="https://x.com/DBakaba/status/1787839169588265251">writes</a>. "Permission to be human: to any executive reading this, friendly reminder that video games are an entertainment/cultural industry, and your business as a corporation is to take care of your artists/entertainers and help them create value for you." </p> <p>He <a href="https://x.com/DBakaba/status/1787839171266015380">continues</a>, "Don't throw us into gold fever gambits, don't use us as strawmen for miscalculations/blind spots, don't make our work environment darwinist jungles. You say we make you proud when we make a good game. Make us proud when times are tough. We know you can, we seen it before." </p> <p>You can read Bakaba's full thread below: </p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is absolutely terrible. Permission to be human : to any executive reading this, friendly reminder that video games are an entertainment/cultural industry, and your business as a corporation is to take care of your artists/entertainers and help them create value for you.</p> — Dinga Bakaba (@DBakaba) <a href="https://twitter.com/DBakaba/status/1787839169588265251?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <p><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/xbox-developer-direct/2023/01/25/the-evil-withins-creators-made-a-colorful-rhythm-game-and-its-out">Tango released Hi-Fi Rush as a surprise "out today" game</a> during an Xbox Developer Direct in January of last year, and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/02/21/hi-fi-rush-arriving-on-ps5-in-march">the game recently came to PlayStation 5</a>. Before Hi-Fi Rush, Tango released <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/ghostwire-tokyo/graveyard-of-horror">Ghostwire: Tokyo</a>, and outside of those two games, it is perhaps best known for <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/the_evil_within_2/b/playstation4/archive/2017/10/12/the-evil-within-2-review.aspx">The Evil Within series</a>. </p> <p>These studio closures join a string of other disheartening 2024 closures and layoffs, which now total more than 10,000 in just the first five months of this year. </p> <p>Last week, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/02/take-two-closes-rollerdrome-and-kerbal-space-program-2-studios-while-majority-of">Take-Two Interactive closed Rollerdrome studio Roll7 and Kerbal Space Program 2 studio Intercept Games</a> alongside major layoffs to its indie-publisher Private Division label. That same week, we learned <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/05/02/deliver-us-mars-developer-keoken-interactive-lays-off-nearly-entire-staff">Deliver Us Mars developer Keoken Interactive had laid off nearly its entire staff</a>. </p> <p>Elsewhere in the year, EA laid off <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/02/28/ea-lays-off-670-employees-cancels-respawns-star-wars-fps">roughly 670 employees across all departments</a>, resulting in the cancellation of Respawn's Star Wars FPS game. <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/02/27/playstation-laying-off-900-across-insomniac-naughty-dog-guerrilla-and-more-closing">PlayStation laid off 900 employees</a> across Insomniac, Naughty Dog, Guerrilla, and more, closing down London Studio in the process, too. The day before, Until Dawn developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/02/26/until-dawn-little-nightmares-iii-developer-supermassive-games-is-laying-off-90">Supermassive Games announced it laid off 90 employees</a>. </p> <p>At the end of January, we learned <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/29/embracer-group-cancels-new-deus-ex-game-in-development-at-eidos-montreal-lays-off">Embracer Group had canceled a new Deus Ex game in development at Eidos-Montréal</a> and laid off 97 employees in the process. Also in January, Destroy All Humans remake developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/25/destroy-all-humans-remake-developer-black-forest-games-reportedly-lays-off-50">Black Forest Games reportedly laid off 50 employees</a> and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/25/microsoft-is-laying-off-1900-employees-across-xbox-activision-blizzard-and-zenimax">Microsoft announced it was laying off 1,900 employees across its Xbox, Activision Blizzard, and ZeniMax teams</a>, as well. Outriders studio <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/25/outriders-studio-people-can-fly-lays-off-more-than-30-employees">People Can Fly laid off more than 30 employees</a> in January, and League of Legends company <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/23/league-of-legends-company-riot-games-lays-off-530-employees">Riot Games laid off 530 employees</a>. </p> <p><a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/18/lords-of-the-fallen-publisher-ci-games-lays-off-10-of-its-staff">Lords of the Fallen Publisher CI Games laid off 10 percent of its staff</a>, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/10/unity-to-lay-off-1800-employees">Unity will lay off 1,800 people by the end of March</a>, and <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/10/twitch-to-lay-off-500-employees">Twitch laid off 500 employees</a>. </p> <p>We also learned that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/gamer-culture/2024/01/12/discord-lays-off-170-employees-due-to-overhiring#:~:text=Discord%20Lays%20Off%20170%20Employees%20Due%20To%20Overhiring%20%2D%20Game%20Informer">Discord had laid off 170 employees</a>, that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/17/ptw-a-support-studio-thats-worked-with-capcom-and-blizzard-lays-off-45-people">layoffs happened at PTW</a>, a support studio that's worked with companies like Blizzard and Capcom, and that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/17/thunderful-group-the-company-behind-2023s-steamworld-build-to-lay-off-roughly-100">SteamWorld Build company, Thunderful Group, let go of roughly 100 people</a>. Dead by Daylight developer <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/01/18/dead-by-daylight-studio-behaviour-interactive-has-reportedly-laid-off-45-people">Behaviour Interactive also reportedly laid off 45 people, too</a>. </p> <p><em>[Source: <a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/microsoft-closes-redfall-developer-arkane-austin-hifi-rush-developer-tango-gameworks-and-more-in-devastating-cuts-at-bethesda">IGN</a>]</em></p> <p><em>How do you feel about these closures? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Tue, 07 May 2024 08:47:37 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122569 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/07/cdpr-working-on-free-witcher-3-mod-editor-to-allow-players-to-create-your-own <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2023/11/15/016bda79/the_witcher_3_mod_editor_cdpr_cd_projekt_red_2024.jpeg" width="800" height="450" alt="The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Mod Editor 2024 Release Date Free PC CDPR CD Projekt Red" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p><strong><em>Update, 5/07/2024:</em></strong></p> <p>Last year, CD Projekt Red announced it was working on a mod editor for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, set to hit PC sometime this year for free. Now, we know exactly when: May 21, 2024. That means we're just a few weeks away from The Witcher 3 REDkit, "an extensive mod editor based on the game's engine," being released to players around the world. </p> <p>CD Projekt Red announced this today on X (formerly Twitter), reminding players it will be free for everyone who owns The Witcher 3 on PC. </p> <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mark your calendars — The Witcher 3 REDkit, an extensive mod editor based on the game’s engine, releases on May 21st, 2024! ⚙<br /> <br /> It will be available for free for everyone who owns The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt on PC.<br /> <br /> Wishlist on <a href="https://twitter.com/Steam?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Steam</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/GOGcom?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GOGcom</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/EpicGames?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EpicGames</a>:<br /> <br /> 🖤… <a href="https://t.co/wCx8CE9SJo">pic.twitter.com/wCx8CE9SJo</a></p> — The Witcher (@witchergame) <a href="https://twitter.com/witchergame/status/1787802994773233878?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <p>If you don't own The Witcher 3 on PC yet but want to mod the game using this REDkit, you can purchase the game on Steam, GOG, or the Epic Games Store. </p> <p><em>The original story continues below...</em></p> <p><strong><em>Original story, 11/15/2023:</em></strong></p> <p>It's been a big year for Cyberpunk 2077 and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt developer CD Projekt Red. It released <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/cyberpunk-2077-phantom-liberty/so-long-night-city" target="_blank">Phantom Liberty,</a> the first and only expansion for Cyberpunk 2077, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/feature/2023/10/27/how-the-team-behind-cyberpunk-2077-phantom-libertys-score-created-a-spy-thriller" target="_blank">debuted its soundtrack on streaming services</a>, revealed plans for <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2023/10/05/a-live-action-cyberpunk-project-is-in-the-works" target="_blank">a live-action Cyberpunk project</a>, and just this week, <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2023/11/13/here-are-the-nominees-for-the-game-awards-2023" target="_blank">nabbed four nominations for The Game Awards 2023</a>. Now, CDPR has announced it is working on a mod editor for The Witcher 3 that will hit PC sometime next year for free. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/McF9Ak1r7L8" width=""></iframe> "We're thrilled to announce that we're working on a mod editor for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt," a tweet from the official Witcher Twitter account reads. "It will allow you to create your own experiences in the game by making something completely new or editing existing quests and content. We're planning on releasing it for free in 2024. Stay tuned – we'll have more to share next year."  <blockquote class="tw-align-center twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">We're thrilled to announce that we're working on a mod editor for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt! ⚔️<br /> <br /> It will allow you to create your own experiences in the game by making something completely new or editing existing quests and content. We’re planning on releasing it for free in 2024.… <a href="https://t.co/e2kvXRqegZ">pic.twitter.com/e2kvXRqegZ</a></p> — The Witcher (@witchergame) <a href="https://twitter.com/witchergame/status/1724774277264654337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2023</a></blockquote> <p>Notably, CDPR says this mod editor for The Witcher 3 will allow players to create their own experiences in the game, meaning people can develop their own fantasy adventures starring everyone's favorite monster hunter. In a reply on Twitter, the official account confirms this mod editor will only be coming to PC.</p> <p>If you haven't yet played The Witcher 3, you should and you can read about why in <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/the_witcher_3_wild_hunt/b/playstation4/archive/2015/05/12/the-witcher-3-wild-hunt-review-game-informer.aspx" target="_blank"><em>Game Informer's </em>review of The Witcher 3</a>. </p> <p>For more about CDPR, read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/cyberpunk-2077-phantom-liberty/so-long-night-city" target="_blank"><em>Game Informer's </em>Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty review</a> and then check out this feature about <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/feature/2023/10/27/how-the-team-behind-cyberpunk-2077-phantom-libertys-score-created-a-spy-thriller" target="_blank">how the team behind Phantom Liberty created its spy-thriller soundtrack</a>. </p> <p><em>Do you have any plans to use the mod editor coming to The Witcher 3 next year? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Tue, 07 May 2024 07:49:17 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 121512 https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/05/07/remedy-has-canceled-codename-kestrel-its-cooperative-multiplayer-game <p><img loading="lazy" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/prod-media.gameinformer.com/styles/body_default/s3/2020/08/14/4009de38/control2.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Control 2 Remedy Entertainment Cancels Codename Kestrel Cooperative Co-Op Multiplayer Game" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /></p> <p>Remedy Entertainment, the studio behind last year's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/alan-wake-2/back-to-reality">Alan Wake 2</a> and 2019's <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/control/a-heady-power-trip">Control</a>, has canceled Codename Kestrel, its "premium cooperative multiplayer game." The game, which was being co-financed and co-published by Tencent, was in the early concept stage, according to Remedy, with only a small team working on it. </p> <p>The studio says it canceled Codename Kestrel to focus on other games it's developing in its portfolio, noting that because of this cancelation, its other projects will get "experienced developers reassigned from Kestrel."</p> <p>Plus, Remedy says planned investment and the need to recruit additional employees for Kestrel is removed with this cancelation. </p> <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EXlL0FpztGY" width="640"></iframe> "Codename Kestrel showed early promise, but the project was still in its early concept stage," Remedy CEO Tero Virtala writes in a <a href="https://investors.remedygames.com/announcements/remedy-entertainment-plc-codename-kestrel-cancelled-as-remedy-focuses-on-existing-franchises/">press release</a>. "Our other projects have advanced well and are moving to the next stages of development, and increasing focus on them provides us with benefits. We can reallocate talented Kestrel developers to these other game projects, and many of our support functions get additional focus on their operations. This is yet another means to ensure that our game projects continue advancing well.  "I want to thank our Kestrel development team. Though we decided to discontinue the project for wider Remedy benefits, our team has done good work and provided us with valuable learnings. I also want to thank Tencent for their partnership so far. They have been very professional and supportive." <p>Codename Kestrel, as a project, began in November 2023 as a reboot from an earlier Remedy project codenamed Vanguard. </p> <p>This cancelation arrives just a couple of weeks after Remedy's latest update about its in-development games, which is where the studio said Codename Kestrel remains in the concept stage. It's also where Remedy revealed the <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/11/11/control-2-in-concept-stage-as-remedy-announces-development-deal-with-505-games">Control 2</a> team is focused on finalizing the proof-of-concept stage and that <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2023/10/31/remedy-provides-update-on-control-2-says-max-payne-remakes-are-in-production">Max Payne 1 & 2 Remake</a> are expected to enter full production in Q2 of this year. You can read that update <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2024/04/29/remedy-shares-development-updates-for-control-2-max-payne-1-2-remake-and-codename-condor">here</a>. </p> <p><em>Do you think Remedy is making the right call by canceling Codename Kestrel? Let us know in the comments below!</em></p> Tue, 07 May 2024 07:41:25 CDT Wesley LeBlanc 122567