Title: We Just Had The Worst July For Console Sales In The U.S. Since The Pandemic As The RAM Crisis Ruins Everything Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 13:11:13 +0000 Link: https://kotaku.com/worst-july-console-sales-2020-pandemic-2026-2000726139 The average price of a video game console in the U.S. last month was over $500

Title: Nobody’s Buying New Physical Games On Xbox In The U.S. Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 13:00:44 +0000 Link: https://kotaku.com/nobodys-buying-new-physical-games-on-xbox-in-the-u-s-2000725930 Nintendo runs away with it

Title: New Sony Patent Discusses The Possibility Of AI That Grinds Games For You And Lets You Sell Your Player Data To Train It Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 12:31:51 +0000 Link: https://kotaku.com/new-sony-patent-discusses-the-possibility-of-ai-that-grinds-games-for-you-and-lets-you-sell-your-player-data-to-train-it-2000725969 The AI ghost of Ghost of Yōtei could get revenge for you

Title: Even More Unofficial GTA 6 Footage Suggests Leaker Has A Playable Build Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 11:51:04 +0000 Link: https://kotaku.com/gta-6-footage-playable-build-cyberleek-radio-stations-flying-2000726124 We also get a sense of the scale and intricacy of the game's cities, and a glimpse of the radio stations

Title: Fields of Mistria: The Kotaku Review Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 11:00:44 +0000 Link: https://kotaku.com/fields-of-mistria-the-kotaku-review-2000725933 In my brightest dreams, I see that valley

Title: Monopoly Go x The Simpsons crossover is almost here Date: Tue, 02 Jun 2026 08:41:21 +0000 Link: https://www.vg247.com/monopoly-go-the-simpsons-crossover-details Monopoly Go players have been looking forward to a major crossover event for what felt like months, and though most of the details ended up leaking, nothing actually beats official information. Read more

Title: Honkai: Star Rail Version 4.3 will take us deeper into the World in Canvas and make Mortenax Blade playable Date: Fri, 22 May 2026 13:43:44 +0000 Link: https://www.vg247.com/honkai-star-rail-version-4-3-all-details HoYoverse has today delivered full details on the next major update for Honkai: Star Rail. Version 4.3, dubbed The Lethe Below the Living, will be available for all players on June 1. The upcoming update adds a new chapter to the Planarcadia arc, and introduce a new playable character. Read more

Title: Forza Horizon 6 explodes on Steam even before it's officially out Date: Fri, 15 May 2026 11:00:02 +0000 Link: https://www.vg247.com/forza-horizon-6-steam-numbers-big-launch Steam is abuzz this week with a couple of long-anticipated launches, but in Forza Horizon 6’s case, at least, the game isn’t even out for what will be most of its players. The anticipated sequel in the open-world driving game series doesn’t officially launch until May 19, but owners of its most expensive version - the Premium Edition - can play it right now. Read more

Title: Mystic Messenger's most loyal players are getting banned in droves for seemingly playing the game too much Date: Fri, 15 May 2026 10:02:10 +0000 Link: https://www.vg247.com/mystic-messenger-ban-wave-thousands-of-hourglasses-anniversary Mystic Messenger, arguably one of the best dating sims around, has been dormant for about seven years. Despite not receiving new content or any meaningful updates in all that time, the game remains popular with its core fans, many of whom just woke up to some shocking news about their accounts. Read more

Title: Forza Horizon 6 review - The driving game for everyone still can’t seem to escape its car-collecting legacy Date: Thu, 14 May 2026 12:00:03 +0000 Link: https://www.vg247.com/forza-horizon-6-review There is this idea that, for a long-running series to remain as consistently popular as Forza Horizon has been, it needs to diminish itself somewhat with each new entry, gradually losing more and more of its edge in a bid to appeal to the widest possible audience. Read more

Title: Halo Co-Creator Has An Idea To Revive The Franchise, But Doubts Xbox CEO “Gives A Sh**” Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 13:14:23 +0000 Link: https://www.gamespot.com/articles/halo-co-creator-has-an-idea-to-revive-the-franchise-but-doubts-xbox-ceo-gives-a-sh/ It's no secret that the Halo franchise is no longer Microsoft's crown jewel in terms of sales or prominence, and it hasn't been for some time. Halo co-creator Marcus Lehto has now weighed in with his idea for a new game and new development philosophies to help revive the Halo brand. However, Lehto went on to say his ideas are probably "fanciful," in part because he believes Xbox CEO Asha Sharma doesn't have a real interest in reviving the franchise. Posting on social media, Lehto said his pitch for a new Halo would be a project that does not aim to please all fans. Instead, he believes his idea for a "darker" and "more grounded" Halo game would not be embraced by many. "It would be a lot darker with a more grounded military feel," he said. "PvP would be the brains, PvE the heart and soul. It would not be 'everyone's' Halo." https://twitter.com/game_fabricator/status/2090175195390820456?s=46 Lehto went on to say that Halo's lore has "become too convoluted" and is now alienating players who might otherwise be interested in Halo. "My goal would be to carefully thread that lore through a new baseline that allows players [the] opportunity to experience Halo fresh and unencumbered," he said. "I would probably bench much of the current lore - respect it, but build a new future narrative for both the old and new audiences which makes much more sense," he added. Lehto went on to say that Halo could have a bright future if management executes, but he thinks this might all be wishful thinking given the new leadership at Xbox these days. "I'm aware that it's fanciful and that I doubt Asha really gives a sh**," he said. Lehto also suggested a new Halo game "must be built by a local team together, not outsourced around the globe to a group that has ZERO investment in making something great." Outsourcing development is a common strategy for game production today. Halo: Campaign Evolved, for example, was developed by numerous studios outside of Halo Studios. The game didn't get off to the best start, and some people didn't enjoy some of the creative decisions, while others were confounded by Microsoft's decision to release a Halo game with no PvP multiplayer. For his part, Lehto said, "Outsourcing killed the game." In another post, Lehto said he could foresee a future where multiple teams work on parts of a game that they "own." However, Lehto said "the core game and experience has to come from a centralized cohesive team - no exceptions." This isn't the first time that Lehto has offered a spicy Halo take. Before this, Lehto called out Campaign Evolved for "pandering to a new era of players with 0% attention span." Overall, however, Lehto really loved the game's upgrades. In other Halo news, it was recently reported that Microsoft could enlist Call of Duty developer Sledgehammer to make a new Halo game.

Title: All Fortnite Sprites And Abilities In Chapter 7 Season 4 Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 13:06:49 +0000 Link: https://www.gamespot.com/articles/all-fortnite-sprites-and-abilities-in-chapter-7-season-4/ This summer, Fortnite's Battle Royale mode earned its best player numbers in nearly two years thanks in no small part to the season's Pokemon-esque sprite-collecting gameplay. Those sprites were so popular, in fact, that Epic Games is keeping them around in Chapter 7 Season 4: Override, Fortnite's new gaming-themed season. Well, sort of. The sprites we collected and played with in Season 3 are no longer in play, because Season 4 is introducing a whole new pack of sprites with their own new abilities. So forget about those precious Grim Reapers and Air boys--we've got newer pals to find. For those who weren't around during Season 3, here are the basics. Sprites are little creatures that can be found in chests or wandering the island, and if you catch one and equip it, it'll give you a special ability that levels up as you play with it. If you then extract the sprite from an extraction site or by winning the game, you'll be able to re-summon it later for use in future matches.  New sprites in Fortnite Chapter 7 Season 4 There are 11 sprites to collect at the start of the season, including three related to Sonic the Hedgehog, since he's serving as this season's big star character.  Sonic Sprite: makes you run faster while sprinting Tails Sprite: allows you to hover in mid-air, and cancels all fall damage Shadow Sprite: passively reloads your weapons for you  Klombo Sprite: grants random items at each level, but you can only level it by consuming health items Killswitch Sprites: gives bullet time and holds you in the air when aiming down sights Bush Sprite: puts you in a bush every so often Jonesy Sprite: recovers health and shield after taking damage Adventure Sprite: upgrades an item in your inventory at each level Crown Sprite: gain bonus crowns after a victory based on the level of the sprite, and it can only be leveled through wins. It's like a streak multiplier, essentially. 8-Bit Sprite: you'll find an 8-Bit Shotgun in the next chest you open, and it'll have a score multiplier. Jackrabbit sprite: gives a double jump. What's different about sprite gameplay in Chapter 7 Season 4? While Season 4 is introducing new gizmos and new sprites, not much is fundamentally changing about the sprites--you'll still level them as you play, and extract them in order to save them to your collection and master them. But since the new sprites all have very different abilities than the ones we saw last season, there will be at least a bit of a learning curve. But that's true every season. In fact, the biggest new change for sprites is that you can now hang out with the sprites you've collected in your very own new Sprite Garden. The Sprite Garden Starting in Season 4, when you collect a sprite it will be added to your Sprite Garden, which a new mode made with the Unreal Editor for Fortnite. The idea here is that you can pop in to chill with your sprites in a space built to showcase your collection, either for bragging purposes or just so you can enjoy the work you put in getting all these stupid things. Any sprite you collected during Season 3 will live here, alongside any you collect during Season 4 and beyond, so the Sprite Garden will be here to stay.

Title: Fortnite Chapter 7 Season 4 Map Changes Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 13:03:19 +0000 Link: https://www.gamespot.com/articles/fortnite-chapter-7-season-4-map-changes/ Fortnite Chapter 7 Season 4, aka Override, is giving the battle royale island a retro gaming-themed makeover in Chapter 7 Season 4. There are Tetris blocks all over the place, and the new "Green Hills" landing spot looks like it was ripped straight from your old Sega Genesis. It's not an entirely new island, since we just got a full map refresh at the start of Season 3--but kids of the '90s are going to find a lot to enjoy about some of these new spots. To begin with, we've got three entirely new major locations. There's a large, scary-looking fortress that comes off as a more technologically advanced version of Brutal Bastion from Chapter 4, and is no doubt the villain Geno's new HQ. There's also a new spot modeled after the Green Hills Zone, the very first level from Sonic the Hedgehog. And lastly, we have a new, ancient-looking structure with a large maze. The new locations are hardly the only changes to the map, of course--Sunken Shores, for example, is now covered in Tetris blocks, and the Zero Point at the center of the island has a creepy-looking tower on it that's emanating energy. And there are other new details and Easter eggs to be found all over the island, not just in the named POIs. We will update this article as we get to know everything new in Fortnite Chapter 7 Season 4, but for now, here's an early look at the new island. The Fortress Ancient structure with a big maze Green Hills from Sonic the Hedgehog Sunken Shores: Tetris Edition Zero Point tower As we learn more about the new island, we'll update this post, so stay tuned for more as we dive into Chapter 7 Season 4.

Title: Everything New In Fortnite Chapter 7 Season 4 Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 13:02:31 +0000 Link: https://www.gamespot.com/articles/everything-new-in-fortnite-chapter-7-season-4/ Fortnite Chapter 7 Season 4 has arrived, and this season, subtitled Override, is all about tapping into millennial video game nostalgia. Mega Man, Sonic the Hedgehog, Crash Bandicoot, and many more will be arriving throughout the season, with some of them even featured in the latest battle pass. Below, we've broken down everything you need to know about the latest Fortnite season, from the new loot pool to new landing spots to, of course, all those new sprites to fight over. In This Article New Fortnite weapons in Chapter 7 Season 4Fortnite battle pass - Chapter 7 Season 4Sprites new and oldFortnite map changes in Chapter 7 Season 4Overrides explained New Fortnite weapons in Chapter 7 Season 4 This season's video game theme (which I admit sounds weird since Fortnite is already a video game) is pulling from all sorts of crossovers. This includes weapons such as the Kingdom Key from Kingdom Hearts and Rebecca's Guns from Cyberpunk: Edgerunners (coming later this season), as well as some special guns in there on day one, like the Mega Blaster arm cannon from Mega Man. For Fortnite originals, there's also Midas' Masterpiece, a new pistol that one-shots enemies if you hit them in the head. We're actively looking into the complete loot pool and will have more information to share soon. Fortnite battle pass - Chapter 7 Season 4 Presumably this is the final "full" season of the year, before a themed mini-season and a new chapter to close it out in November and December, if recent years are any indication. That would mean this lineup of eight new heroes to collect is the last of its kind for Chapter 7.  This season's battle pass includes the highly anticipated arrival of the Blue Blur himself, Sonic the Hedgehog, as well as Tails tagging along in Fortnite Sidekick form. Sonic is the instantly unlocked character, too, which is a surprise considering someone so sought-after is usually put at the end of the battle pass. Other skins include the kart racer Kitty Wins, Call of Duty-like action hero Phantom, stealthy Grace Crowne, Geno--Fortnite's in-universe man of mystery, fighting game rep Mali, a Kojima-esque hero (or villain?) named Bastian, and a customizable character with Minecraft-like proportions named Wrixel. Players who jump in during launch week will also unlock a bonus alternate skin for Grace Crowne, along with matching accessories. Plus, if you gift the pass to a friend, you'll each unlock the Peril Peak bonus skin for Mali. While they're not in the battle pass, additional crossover skins have already been teased, including: Kingdom Hearts Mega Man Persona 5 Royal Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 99 Nights in the Forest Crash Bandicoot Spyro The Dragon "And more" Sprites new and old Perhaps the biggest surprise of the new season is that your sprites from last season will roll over and stay with you in the new Sprites Garden mode, where you "can play with them and show them off," according to Epic. But there are plenty of new ones to check out, too, including some crossover sprites. We've listed those we know of so far and are chasing down the rest for a massive sprites guide. Watch this space. For now, we can confirm: Sonic Sprite - applies a speed buff that increases with the sprite's level Tails Sprite - allows gliding and hovering mid-air, improving as the sprite levels Shadow Sprite - passively reloads weapons in your inventory Find these and more in our guide on Fortnite Sprites in Chapter 7 Season 4. Fortnite map changes in Chapter 7 Season 4 It wouldn't be a new season without a major environmental makeover. This season's map adds the Sonic flair in the form of Green Hill Zone coming to Fortnite, loop included.  Elsewhere on the island, you'll find Tetris has invaded the landscape, with massive tetrominos scattered around a neighborhood. Other map details hint at another tie-in: Pac-Man, as evidenced by the ghost-shaped clouds in the sky. There's even a ghost-shaped landmass in the middle of some water--an island within the island. Naturally, there's an arcade too, though a lot of island regions that don't tie to other video game IP resemble things like hardware component parts--all of it tying to the season's gaming and hacking themes. Find a deeper look in our guide on Fortnite Chapter 7 Season 4 map changes. Overrides explained This season adds a new mechanic called Overrides, which are buffs that you can apply as you explore and survive each round. While it's possible more Overrides are coming later in the season, we already have a lengthy list of what's there now. Here's what you'll find and what they do. There are two types of Overrides: Override Consoles, which alter the round for all players, and Squad Overrides, which apply only to your team but also place you on the map as a trade-off for your bonus powers.  OVERRIDE NAMEWHAT IT DOESSonic SpeedIncreases your sprint speed over timeMore XPGain more XP from eliminations, looting, and surviving the StormLoot HackYou'll get a loot hack item from the next Chest you openExtra LifeRespawn when on the brink of elimination one timeBig FishMakes all Fishing Holes goldenConstant HealGain constant health and shield regen over time when not inInfinite StaminaGain infinite staminaHeadshotDeal increased headshot damageOvershieldGain extra, or a new OvershieldSpeed ShooterYour weapons fire and reload fasterBig LootHigher chance to get Epic or Legendary loot from ChestsPower PickaxePickaxe hits deal massive damage No Fortnite season is ever complete on day one, so you can expect more changes to loot, the island, and the shop throughout the next few months, including the best-time-of-the-year Fortnitemares event presumably returning this October. 

Title: US Video Game Spending Just Had One Of Its Worst Julys Ever Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 13:00:00 +0000 Link: https://www.gamespot.com/articles/us-video-game-spending-just-had-one-of-its-worst-julys-ever/ After a few solid months, it looks like video game spending hit a slump in July. That's according to new data by Circana, with the analyst firm saying that total video game spending in the US fell 10% year-over-year in July to $4.5 billion. New physical software sales also hit an all-time July low of $85 million--since tracking began in 1995 by Circana--and hardware sales dropped to their lowest July level since 2020. According to Circana, higher hardware prices driven by the components crisis have had a significant impact on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S console sales, and year-over-year metrics continue to suffer against the record-breaking June 2025 launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. "July video game hardware spending fell 29% when compared to a year ago, to $282 million, the lowest total for a July month since 2020 ($163 million)," Video Games at Circana senior director Mat Piscatella explained in the report. "Total hardware unit sales fell 39% versus July 2025, while the average selling price of a new unit of video game hardware jumped by 16%, to $542.  Unit sales were down on all console platforms when compared to a year ago. PlayStation 5 unit sales fell 6% versus July 2025, while Xbox Series dropped 18% and Switch 2 declined by 51%." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92NCgo5zce0 The PS5 still led the July hardware market in dollar sales, while the Switch 2 sold the most units overall last month. Having been on the market for 14 months, the Switch 2 is outselling the original Switch by 11% over the same period. Circana also noted that for the 2026 year-to-date period, physical game sales for PlayStation consoles accounted for 32% of total US consumer spending, while spending on physical games for Nintendo hardware sat at 63%. In terms of content, spending fell 9% in July when compared to a year ago, to $4.1 billion. Circana noted a decline in spending on mobile games as the primary driver of this drop, alongside a decrease in spending on console and PC games. For the video game highlights, Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 was the best-selling game of July in dollar sales, thanks to a PS5/PS4 port of it and its predecessor. EA Sports College Football 27 was July’s second-best-selling individual title in full-game dollar sales. Monopoly Go also experienced a surge in popularity--thanks mostly to a crossover with The Simpsons, and was the biggest game when it came to consumer spending. Pokemon Go also hopped several places upward in the top ten on the back of its anniversary celebrations. "Pokemon Go was the biggest mover, climbing to third during its 10th anniversary month," Sensor Tower's Bryan Isagholian added. "Niantic ran boosted XP events, anniversary-themed Pokemon, and follow-up events through July, alongside larger real-world activations like Go Fest and a Times Square Mega Mewtwo raid. Revenue rose +230% month-over-month." Resident Evil Requiem is still the best-selling game in the US for 2026, but it could drop a few places soon. As we draw closer to the busy holiday season, sports games like NBA 2K27 and AAA releases like Call of Duty usually emerge as the year's best-sellers. On top of that, early sales for GTA 6 are looking impressive, reportedly bringing in $400 million before the game's launch in November. Top 10 Best-Selling US Video Games (July 2026) Based on combined physical and full-game digital dollar sales (7/5/2026 – 8/1/2026). Excludes mobile games and digital add-on content. Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 (Previous Rank: 67) EA Sports College Football 27 (New) Assassin's Creed: Black Flag: Resynced (New) EA Sports MVP Bundle (2026) (New) Call of Duty: Black Ops (Previous rank: 150) Halo: Campaign Evolved (New) Splatoon Raiders (New) Echoes of Aincrad: Sword Art Online (New) Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream (Previous Rank: 6) 007 First Light (Previous Rank: 3) Top 10 Best-Selling US Video Games to date in 2026 Based on combined year-to-date physical and full-game digital dollar sales. Excludes mobile games and digital add-on content. Resident Evil: Requiem (Previous Rank: 1) 007 First Light (Previous Rank: 3) Crimson Desert (Previous Rank: 2) MLB: The Show 26 (Previous Rank: 4) Call of Duty: Black Ops II (Previous Rank: 130) Forza Horizon 6 (Previous Rank: 5) Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream (Previous Rank: 7) Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight (Previous Rank: 6) Pokemon: Pokopia (Previous Rank: 8) EA Sports College Football 27 (Rank: New)

Title: Arc Raiders' Fast Food Promo Skins Let You Wear a Sandwich in the Apocalypse Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 13:00:14 GMT Link: https://www.polygon.com/arc-raiders-subway-skins-promotion/ Outside of tie-ins with Embark Studios' other game, The Finals, and the odd Discord collaboration, Arc Raidershasn't featured in any other promotions in the same way that other multiplayer shooters often do. Until now, that is.

Title: 5 Controversial Star Trek Episodes That Have Aged Like Fine Wine Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 13:00:14 GMT Link: https://www.polygon.com/best-star-trek-episodes-most-controversial/ Not every Star Trek classic was considered an instant classic. Some episodes were criticized for being too ambitious, too preachy, or just plain weird. Others simply asked questions audiences weren't ready to answer yet.

Title: 10 Funniest Far Side Comics About Cows Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 12:00:13 GMT Link: https://www.polygon.com/10-funniest-far-side-comics-about-cows/ From 1980 until 1995, cartoonist Gary Larson wrote and drew the comic strip The Far Side. It was a single panel comic strip filled with non-sequitur, often surreal jokes mostly aimed at adults instead of children, which was unusual for newspaper comics. Also unusual was the fact that, unlike most daily comic strips, there were no recurring characters. Whereas Peanuts had its recurring gang of kids and Garfield has its cast of humans and animals, every panel of The Far Side introduced new characters and scenarios all aimed at delivering that day’s joke.

Title: Fortnite's New Season Is Here, and It Creates a Massive Video Game Multiverse Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 11:48:55 GMT Link: https://www.polygon.com/fortnite-new-season-4-chapter-7-override-launch/ Chapter 7 Season 4 has been Fortnite's most highly anticipated season launch in a while due to its main themes: hacking and video games. At long last, it is here. You can now jump out of the Battle Bus and land on the Battle Royale island to find dozens of players dressed as Sonic, items and weapons from other video game franchises, and locations based on fan-favorite levels, such as Green Hill Zone.

Title: GTA 6 Leaker May Have a Playable Copy of the Game Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 11:47:04 GMT Link: https://www.polygon.com/gta-6-leaks-playable-build/ The saga of Grand Theft Auto 6 leaks is continuing, with the person behind the account allegedly showing off a video of them flying over Vice City in a biplane. Originally spotted by Insider Gaming, we cannot verify the legitimacy of this video as it appears to have been taken down from every available source, but the most notable part is that it seemingly implies the leaker actually has access (or had access, at one point) to a playable build of the game, and not just a series of videos.

Title: Class Is in Session: GeForce NOW Levels Up Linux, Chromebooks and More Date: Thu, 13 Aug 2026 13:00:33 +0000 Link: https://blogs.nvidia.com/blog/geforce-now-thursday-linux-native-app/ GeForce NOW is giving cloud gaming an extra-credit upgrade just in time for back-to-school season. The native Linux app for GeForce NOW is officially out of beta. GeForce NOW is also delivering new cloud optimizations that make Frame Generation feel even more responsive while streaming. On top of that, Performance members will see higher frame rates in demanding games thanks to a CPU performance adjustment.  Plus, learn how GeForce NOW can add high-performance GeForce RTX gaming to the Chromebooks students already rely on for school – and how eligible new owners can take advantage of Chromebook Fast Pass. It all adds up to more ways to move from assignments to adventures across nearly any device. The only homework left is to decide what to play. This week, nine new games join the GeForce NOW library. The Cloud Gets Extra Credit GeForce NOW keeps getting better. The native Linux app for GeForce NOW has officially graduated from beta. Built on months of community feedback, the release focuses on performance, stability and polish while continuing to support Ubuntu 24.04 and later. A new Flatpack repository makes getting started and receiving future updates even easier. Visit the download page for more information and instructions. The cloud handles the rendering, so Linux gamers can tap into the latest GeForce RTX performance while staying on their preferred setup — without local hardware upgrades, compatibility headaches or complicated workarounds. Smooth gameplay makes the grade. GeForce NOW has also optimized DLSS Frame Generation in the cloud, reducing latency and making games feel more responsive. The improvements are especially noticeable when streaming at 60 or 120 frames per second in 1440p and 4K, helping every mouse movement and camera pan feel more immediate. Performance members will also enjoy additional server software optimizations to improve frame rates in select CPU-intensive games, helping demanding titles run more smoothly while delivering an even better gameplay experience. The cloud-side upgrade happens automatically, with nothing for members to install or configure, and at no additional cost. From Class Mode to Game Mode Class dismissed. Game on. Chromebooks already in backpacks can double as a PC gaming powerhouse, with GeForce NOW giving everyday school setups extra credit.  Chromebooks handling lectures, group projects and browser tabs can transform into high-performance GeForce RTX gaming PCs in just a few clicks. When class is out, open a supported browser or app and stream more than 2,000 supported PC games from existing libraries, with the cloud handling the heavy lifting. The same flexibility extends to Macs, Surface devices, everyday laptops, Steam Deck and mobile devices. Plus, eligible new Chromebook and Chromebook+ owners can claim a year of GeForce NOW at no cost with Chromebook Fast Pass, with priority access and no ads.  Study. Stream PC games. Same device.  Ready for the Weekend Follow the chain of command, streaming from the cloud. In addition, members can look for the following new games streaming this week: Car Wash Simulator (New release on Steam, Aug. 10) Pax Autocratica (New release on Steam, Aug. 10) Clawed (New release on Steam, Aug. 13) Hell Let Loose: Vietnam (New release on Steam, Aug. 13) Sandustry (New release on Steam and Xbox, Aug. 13) Cat Mail Co. (Steam) Misery (Steam) Monster Hunter Wilds Prologue Demo (Steam) Pratfall (Steam) To cap things off, a creator known as “Madelyn” recently shared how GeForce now makes cloud gaming affordable and accessible across nearly all her devices, calling it “a game changer” in her video: What are you planning to play this weekend? Let us know on X or in the comments below.

Title: GeForce NOW Shakes Up August With 26 New Games Date: Thu, 06 Aug 2026 13:00:11 +0000 Link: https://blogs.nvidia.com/blog/geforce-now-thursday-august-2026-games-list/ August is here, bringing 26 new games for GeForce NOW members.  Command the seas in World of Warships: Legends and discover what’s next in the GeForce NOW library, starting with the eight newly added games this week.  In addition, GeForce NOW is at the QuakeCon gaming conference this week in Grapevine, Texas, with hands-on experiences awaiting attendees. Return to QuakeCon  Visit the NVIDIA booth at QuakeCon to experience GeForce RTX 5080-powered Ultimate cloud gaming in action, with demos showcasing stunning visuals at up to 5K 120 frames per second on an ultrawide display, as well as seamless gameplay on the Lenovo Legion Go S handheld device. Conference attendees can see how thousands of PC games, including fan-favorite Bethesda titles, can move effortlessly across laptops, Macs, handhelds, mobile devices, TVs and more — letting members pick up where they left off on nearly any supported screen. Gamers not at the show can try out Ultimate cloud gaming in action with a day pass and jump into Bethesda titles from any device. All Games on Deck Sail the seas from nearly any screen. World of Warships: Legends drops anchor on GeForce NOW this week, bringing free-to-play naval combat. Captains can command destroyers, cruisers and battleships across massive multiplayer battles while exploring the latest update, featuring the Pacific Hammer Campaign, a new line of U.S. destroyers and more. Chart a course straight into the latest content across devices today without any installs needed, and check out all the games available this week: Big Walk (New release on Steam Aug. 4) Beacon Pines (Free on Epic Games Store Aug. 6) Sovereign Tower (New release on Steam Aug. 6) Expeditions: Samurai (New release on Steam Aug. 7) The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales (Xbox, available on the Microsoft Store) The Incident at Galley House (Steam) Machine Party (Steam) World of Warships: Legends (Steam) And look forward to the games coming throughout the month: Pax Autocratica (New release on Steam Aug. 10) Car Wash Simulator (New release on Steam Aug. 10) Clawed (New release on Steam Aug. 13) Hell Let Loose: Vietnam (New release on Steam Aug. 13) Sandustry (New release on Steam and Xbox, available on Game Pass, Aug. 13) The Sinking City 2 (New release on Steam Aug. 18) Mortal Shell II (New release on Steam Aug. 20) Gallipoli (New release on Steam, Aug. 20) Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2 (New release on Steam Aug. 25) Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy (New release on Steam and Xbox, available on Game Pass, Aug. 27) Breathedge 2 (New release on Steam Aug. 30) World of Warships: Legends (Steam) High on Life (Steam) High on Life 2 (Steam and Xbox, available on Game Pass) Paradise Killer (Steam) Misery (Steam) Pratfall (Steam) Starvester (Steam) Extra Joy From July In addition to the dozen games announced last month, 15 more joined the GeForce NOW library.  Breath of Fire IV (Steam) Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 (Ubisoft Connect) CloverPit (Xbox, available on Game Pass) Dinoblade (Steam) Dino Crisis (Steam) Dino Crisis 2 (Steam) Esports Manager 2026 (Steam) Funnel Runners (Steam) Granblue Fantasy: Relink – Endless Ragnarok Demo (Steam) Halo: Campaign Evolved (Steam and Xbox, available on Game Pass) Mistfall Hunter (Steam) Onimusha: Way of the Sword DEMO (Steam) Pathogenic (Steam) Sudden Attack Zero Point (Steam) The Life and Suffering of Prince Jerian (Steam) Mistfall Hunter didn’t make it this month. Stay tuned to GFN Thursday for the latest updates. What are you planning to play this weekend? Let us know on X or in the comments below. Share a game screenshot or clip that perfectly sums up your day so far. — NVIDIA GeForce NOW (@NVIDIAGFN) August 4, 2026

Title: Best in Class: Stream PC Games and Study on the Same Laptop With GeForce NOW Date: Thu, 30 Jul 2026 13:00:20 +0000 Link: https://blogs.nvidia.com/blog/geforce-now-thursday-back-to-school-2026/ Back to school means balancing assignments, deadlines and downtime. GeForce NOW makes it easy to have it all. With cloud gaming, everyday laptops used for class can also become GeForce RTX-powered gaming setups.  When it’s time to switch from studying to gaming, members can jump into Halo: Campaign Evolved, as GeForce NOW is bringing one of the gaming world’s most celebrated titles to nearly any device through the cloud, alongside eight total games joining the GeForce NOW library this week. From A+ to AAA Gaming  This back-to-school season, the easiest upgrade isn’t replacing laptops in backpacks. It’s unlocking even more from these same laptops, from creating to gaming. With a GeForce NOW membership, Chromebooks, Macs and Surface devices can become GeForce RTX-powered gaming PCs in the cloud. The GeForce NOW library features thousands of supported PC games, letting members stream titles they already own from digital stores like Steam, Xbox PC Game Pass and Epic Games Store in just a few clicks. The cloud keeps games up to date and ready to play, making it easy to jump into a match between classes, after homework or whenever there’s free time. Time spent waiting on downloads, patches and installs becomes time spent in game instead. The Ultimate membership enables best-in-class experiences by delivering 5080-class performance in the cloud with NVIDIA DLSS, ray tracing and NVIDIA Reflex technologies for responsive, visually rich gameplay — all on the hardware gamers already own. A creator known as “Menguiny” recently put this to the test after picking up a MacBook Neo. GeForce NOW turned the laptop — usually the creator’s go-to for editing videos and everyday work — into a top-notch gaming machine, too. Another creator, “TechWithSeong” highlighted that same versatility GeForce NOW offers. Rather than juggling separate devices for work and gaming, he used GeForce NOW Ultimate to stream supported PC games across the devices he already owns — from a MacBook used for editing to gaming on the go with handheld devices. Gamers can start with a day pass and experience all the premium benefits without a monthly commitment. Plus, the cost of a day pass can be applied toward a first membership purchase — it’s like earning a little extra credit along the way. Everyone, at Their Stations Needlers never looked so sharp. Experience the Master Chief’s iconic journey on GeForce NOW in Halo: Campaign Evolved — a modernized remake of Halo: Combat Evolved’s campaign — rebuilt with high-definition visuals, updated cinematics and refined gameplay. Whether discovering Halo for the first time or returning after 25 years to finish the fight, it’s as the Master Chief says: “We’re just getting started.” Crash-land on the mysterious ringworld alongside Cortana and uncover great secrets while battling overwhelming Covenant forces. Fight through the rebuilt campaign, then continue the adventure with three brand-new missions featuring the Master Chief and Sergeant Johnson. Expanded weapons, iconic vehicles, hijackable Wraith tanks and optional Skull modifiers offer even more ways to play. Suit up across PCs, Macs, Chromebooks, handhelds, mobile devices, TVs and more with GeForce NOW Ultimate, powered by GeForce RTX 5080-class performance in the cloud. Experience Halo with NVIDIA DLSS, ray tracing and NVIDIA Reflex technologies delivering higher frame rates and ultralow latency that keep every firefight feeling responsive and worthy of a Spartan. From solo gaming to online co-op modes, GeForce NOW cloud saves let members log in and pick up exactly where they left off across supported devices — no lengthy downloads, extra storage space or expensive hardware upgrades required. The only thing left to carry is the mission. Let’s Play Today In addition, members can stream the following games this week: Halo: Campaign Evolved (New release on Steam and Xbox, available on Game Pass July 28) Mistfall Hunter (New release on Steam July 29) Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 (New release on Ubisoft Connect July 30) Sudden Attack Zero Point (New release on Steam, July 30) The Ranchers (New release on Steam, available July 30) Corsair Cove (New release on Steam and Xbox, available on Game Pass July 31) Funnel Runners (Steam) Pathogenic (Steam) What are you planning to play this weekend? Let us know on X or in the comments below. Which game lore are you so familiar with that you can give a school presentation on it? — NVIDIA GeForce NOW (@NVIDIAGFN) July 29, 2026

Title: GeForce NOW Sets Sail With ‘Path of Exile: Curse of the Allflame’ Joining the Cloud Date: Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:00:16 +0000 Link: https://blogs.nvidia.com/blog/geforce-now-thursday-path-of-exile-allflame/ Lock in and load up the cloud. GFN Thursday brings fresh updates and new adventures, all ready to play without waiting for downloads. Set sail in Path of Exile: Curse of the Allflame and charge in Battlefield 6 Season 4 both launching major content for members this week. Then revisit Capcom legends like Breath of Fire IV, Dino Crisis and Dino Crisis 2, jump into Halo: Campaign Evolved Advanced Access and discover nine titles arriving on GeForce NOW. The Curse Calls Prepare to brave the unforgiving waters of Wraeclast. Path of Exile: Curse of the Allflame launches Friday, July 24, sending Exiles into the perilous Frozen Seas. Guided by formidable corsair captain Valerie and her cursed navigator Vesper, gamers must piece together scattered treasure charts, board the legendary vessel — the Sovereign — and chart a course into the abyss. Descend into the depths using Allflame Lanterns to uncover valuable relics while surviving the dangers lurking beneath the waves. The update introduces sweeping changes, including a complete rework of sockets and links. The Scion also gains the all-new Luminary Ascendancy, the Mercenaries of Trarthus return alongside mysterious Atlas Anomalies, and the preexisting Abyss, Legion and Talisman mechanics receive revitalized gameplay and exclusive rewards. GeForce NOW members can dive in the moment it launches across their devices, no downloads needed. Learn more about the latest additions on the Path of Exile website. Rise Through the Ranks The next operation begins. Battlefield 6 takes the fight further with Season 4, bringing new battlegrounds, expanded progression and new ways to play.  Take to the land, air and sea with the massive Tsuru Reef and the return of the fan-favorite Wake Island, coming in phase two. Both feature aircraft carriers with operational flight decks, new naval vehicles and a dynamic wave system that helps move every match. The update also introduces Custom Lobbies and Spectator Mode, delivering more ways to play. From large-scale multiplayer battles to intense vehicle combat, GeForce NOW lets members deploy across nearly any device. Ultimate members can stream with GeForce RTX 5080-powered performance across PCs, Macs, handhelds, mobile devices, TVs and more. Whether returning to the frontlines or enlisting for the first time, members can leap into the latest Battlefield update the moment it arrives on GeForce NOW — without waiting for patches. Dragons and Dinosaurs — on Any Device Classic adventures, now in the cloud. Three iconic Capcom adventures arrive on GeForce NOW this week, ready for longtime fans to revisit and new players to discover. Journey through the rich fantasy world of Breath of Fire IV, a role-playing game following the intertwining stories of Ryu and Fou-Lu. Master an array of skills and magic to unlock strategic victories in battle and go head to head with unique enemies using powerful Dragon Transformations.  Raw instinct takes over in Dino Crisis and Dino Crisis 2, the survival-horror series that combines pulse-pounding action, resource management and thrilling dinosaur encounters. Pursued by a relentless prehistoric terror, players fight to survive from the facility to the world of the Cretaceous Period. Whether reliving unforgettable moments or discovering these legendary titles for the first time, gamers on GeForce NOW can experience gaming history on supported devices like Chromebooks, Fire TV and Steam Deck — no legacy hardware required. Spartans — Start Early Spartans don’t have to wait. Players who prepurchase the Premium Edition of Halo: Campaign Evolved can suit up for Advanced Access before the game’s global launch on Tuesday, July 28.  Start the weekend with all the new games arriving on GeForce NOW: ZeroSpace (New release on Steam, available July 20) The Life and Suffering of Prince Jerian (New release on Steam, available July 20) The Planet Crafter (New release on Xbox, available on Game Pass July 21) Carnival Hunt (New release on Steam, available July 23) Dinoblade (New release on Steam, available on July 23) Breath of Fire IV (Steam) CloverPit (Xbox, available on Game Pass) Dino Crisis (Steam) Dino Crisis 2 (Steam) The last word goes to the Community Corner. One GeForce NOW member recently shared they found themselves back on GeForce NOW Ultimate because they missed the flexibility of gaming across devices like Steam Deck. Their post sparked a discussion about why members tap into cloud gaming, whether as a backup, a travel companion or their primary way to play. What are you planning to play this weekend? Let us know on X or in the comments below.

Title: Sharpen the Sword, Skip the Downloads — ‘Onimusha: Way of the Sword’ Is Coming to GeForce NOW Date: Thu, 16 Jul 2026 13:00:34 +0000 Link: https://blogs.nvidia.com/blog/geforce-now-thursday-onimusha-coming/ Onimusha: Way of the Sword is coming to GeForce NOW at launch, with the playable demo available this week. It’s joined by Denshattack! rolling in with five new games arriving in the cloud. Plus, GeForce NOW officially launches in India, moving from beta to public availability — meaning gamers can sign up without a waitlist. Pick Up the Oni Gauntlet Cloud-powered. Samurai-approved. Capcom’s next legendary action adventure is coming to GeForce NOW. Onimusha: Way of the Sword will arrive on the cloud at launch on Thursday, Sept. 3.  Members can jump into the action even sooner with the demo now available to stream. Set in a dark fantasy vision of Edo Japan, follow a lone samurai wielding the legendary Oni Gauntlet against relentless demonic Genma. Master precise swordplay, unleash powerful abilities and absorb the souls of fallen enemies as supernatural battles unfold across a haunting world filled with mystery and danger. Ultimate members can experience every clash with GeForce RTX 5080-class performance in the cloud across PCs, Macs, handhelds, mobile devices and TVs. From the first swing in the demo through launch day, GeForce NOW lets members step into battle the moment it’s available — no downloads, storage space or expensive hardware required. Gamers can find the demo in the GeForce NOW app demo row and add the title to their wishlists today to be ready when the blade is drawn.  India Levels Up The wait is over. GeForce NOW has officially exited beta in India, bringing the world’s highest-performance cloud gaming service to more gamers across the country.  This week, gamers can choose from monthly Performance and Ultimate memberships, flexible day passes or the basic, free offering — making it easier than ever to experience GeForce RTX-powered cloud gaming. GeForce NOW now supports UPI payments, giving gamers across India a fast, secure and convenient way to purchase memberships and day passes.  Premium memberships unlock GeForce RTX-powered features like ray tracing, NVIDIA DLSS and NVIDIA Reflex, along with higher resolutions, faster frame rates and priority access to streaming. With thousands of supported games — from blockbuster releases and free-to-play favorites to indie hits — members can enjoy PC games they already own without the cost of upgrading to high-end gaming hardware. Join the conversation with the GeForce NOW community on Reddit.  Go Off the Rails This Weekend “Denshattack!” is pulling into the cloud. Denshattack! — the off-the-rails, train‑wrecking action game — is now available to stream on GeForce NOW, letting members embrace pure chaos from almost any device.  Take control of runaway trains and send them barreling through crowded tracks, explosive obstacles and delightfully destructive layouts, chaining spectacular crashes with just the right mix of precision and pandemonium. Its colorful, tongue‑in‑cheek presentation and physics‑driven mayhem turn every run into a highlight reel of derailments — perfect for quick sessions, score‑chasing and laughing at just how wrong a single turn can go when the throttle never lets up. In addition, members can look for the following to play this week: Denshattack! (New release on Steam and Xbox, available on Game Pass on July 15) The Mound: Omen of Cthulhu (New release on Steam, available July 15) Heave Ho 2 (New release on Steam, available July 16) Fogpiercer (New release on Steam and Xbox, available on Game Pass on July 17) Onimusha: Way of the Sword DEMO (Steam) The GeForce NOW community keeps discovering new games to play, with members discussing the most beautiful games on the service. What game has impressed you most on GeForce NOW? Let us know on X or in the comments below.

Title: A field guide to Gran Turismo 7’s 1.71 update, out today Date: Wed, 19 Aug 2026 13:00:46 +0000 Link: https://blog.playstation.com/2026/08/19/a-field-guide-to-gran-turismo-7s-1-71-update-out-today/ Gran Turismo 7’s 1.71 update roars onto PS5 today*, bringing with it new cars, as well as introducing  three new World Circuits, while Whistler added as featured Curation in Scapes.  Play Video Each of the four cars in this update offers a different kind of driving experience. Whether you are chasing style, discovery, precision, or something new, this update is built to be explored your way. To help you decide which one to drive first, check out the below guide, detailing what makes each one special and shows you exactly how to jump in. 1.71 update – Car Field Guide  Each car fits into a simple category:  Street Icon Sleeper Pick Pure Driver Next Gen Performance Pick what feels right, start simple, and explore from there. New Cars*** ’97 Toyota Chaser Tourer V *Can be purchased from Used CarsCategory: Street Icon View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Street Icons are all about presence, style, and cultural impact. These are the cars players connect with and make their own. The Chaser has instant attitude. Its stance and silhouette give it a natural presence, while its roots in tuner culture and the world of drifting give this Toyota a ton of street cred. This is the kind of car that quickly becomes a favorite because it reflects how players choose to drive, customize, and express themselves. How to experience it in GT7 Start here: Take it to Tokyo Expressway and run a clean lapThen try this: Add a livery in GT Auto and head to the Tuning Shop to start modifying the ChaserLevel up: Capture a replay or Scapes photo that shows your version of the car ’97 Toyota Mark II Tourer V *Can be purchased from Used CarsCategory: Sleeper Pick View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Sleeper Picks are understated at first glance, but reward players who spend time with them. Not to be confused with the Chaser, the Mark II carries quiet confidence. It may not demand attention immediately, but it connects with players who enjoy discovering something a little deeper. It represents a side of car culture where reputation is built through feel, knowledge, and performance rather than appearance alone. How to experience it in GT7 Start here: Take it to Tokyo Expressway or another urban track and get a feel for itThen try this: Compare it to other road cars from a similar eraLevel up: Tune and test different setups to find what suits your style If you enjoy finding hidden favorites that reward time and attention, this is your car. ’08 Caterham Seven Superlight R500 *Can be purchased from Brand CentralCategory: Pure Driver View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Pure Driver cars strip everything back and focus entirely on the connection between driver and road. The Caterham delivers one of the most direct driving experiences in GT7. Lightweight and responsive, it puts every input in your hands with no distractions. It is less about power and more about precision, making every corner and braking moment feel earned. How to experience it in GT7 Start here: Run a Time Trial on a technical track like Deep Forest RacewayThen try this: Focus on improving lap consistency over multiple runsLevel up: Refine braking, cornering, and racing lines to shave off time If you want to feel every input and improve with every lap, this is where to start. ’25 Hyundai IONIQ 6 N *Can be purchased from Brand CentralCategory: Next Gen Performance View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Next Gen Performance cars represent the evolution of speed, technology, and driving feel. The IONIQ 6 N brings a modern edge to the update. It reflects where performance is heading and invites players to experience something different from traditional expectations. It feels fresh, responsive, and part of a new chapter in driving. How to experience it in GT7 Start here: Take it to a fast circuit like High-Speed RingThen try this: Run a custom race against modern performance carsLevel up: Compare its performance across tracks and refine your driving approach If you want to experience where performance is going next, start here.Want to learn more about August Update 1.71? Then head over to gran-turismo.com.Haven’t purchased Gran Turismo 7 yet but want to get a feel for it? Download My First GT on the PlayStation store for free and hop into the game! Play Video And in case you missed it this past weekend, the Gran Turismo World Series – GT’s live event – was a blast in Tokyo! If you want to catch the excitement in person for the next round in Singapore, tickets are on sale right now: gran-turismo.com/GTWS *Gran Turismo 7 1.71 update will be available for free for Gran Turismo 7 players beginning today at 11:00pm PDT / August 20 at 7:00am BST / 3:00pm JST**. **Internet connection required for update.  ***Credits (paid or via game progression) required to purchase vehicles.

Title: Inside the brutal puzzles of Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival  Date: Wed, 19 Aug 2026 12:15:07 +0000 Link: https://blog.playstation.com/2026/08/19/inside-the-brutal-puzzles-of-clive-barkers-hellraiser-revival/ It’s dark. The walls are oppressively grey, spikey and close. And there’s a disturbing noise of chattering teeth that sounds like it’s coming from, well, everywhere. Then, I see him. Flesh warped, eyeless sockets sunken, mouth wide, teeth full. The Chatterer – the source of the ever-present and unnerving noise. Player character, Aidan, runs away, but seconds later Chatterer remerges in front of him in a crackle of electricity. Aidan tries another path of escape and Chatterer again fizzles into view. Down a seething red, fleshy corridor and the chattering figure zaps in front of him again. But there is a way to escape, you just need to know how. Play Video This is just part of my introduction to Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival, a first-person survival horror hitting PlayStation 5 on October 8. And while this is a fairly straightforward puzzle element that I’m being shown, there are far more elaborate and equally disturbing ones that Assistant Game Director Vid Rajin is eager to walk me – or more accurately in this case, run – through. A labyrinth of terror Although Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival features a number of firearms and weapons, that’s not the purpose of the demonstration I’m immersed in. The focus is very much on how the game aims to test your nerve through its reality warping environments and the mysteries they hold, all encased with the gruesome tension the series is famous for. In fact, Hellraiser is a franchise which doesn’t necessarily lend itself to combative action, given its psychological and deeply disturbing investigation of the lines between pleasure and pain. To translate that into a game was one of the challenges faced by the teams at Mad Head Games and Saber Interactive, aiming to give the puzzles an appropriate edge. “We use the Genesis Configuration – a puzzle box – at the centre of things,” explains Vid. “Mysterious puzzle boxes are literally key to everything in Clive Barker’s universe, so it writes itself in terms of helping to craft puzzles and how to manipulate the world. We have a background in adventure games and hidden object puzzle titles, so we took our experience from those, but we want to make sure we have a narrative purpose for puzzles wherever we can.” The earlier example of our encounter with Chatterer is a clear sign of that bleeding of narrative and puzzles, as is another environmental teaser where Aidan is wandering through his house near the start of the game. At first it appears normal – but twisted little elements, such as photos on a wall being crooked or distorted soon become clear. And trying to escape the various rooms only leads to them repeating. The only way to solve this tormenting loop? By turning back instead of trying to move forward, which changes the entire setting. “The labyrinth Aidan is trapped in is intertwined with the real world,” says Vid. “So in the case of the looping rooms, the environment is almost trying to tell Aidan something, to get him to change his perspective, and make the player figure out another approach to what they might have been doing.” Controlling the Genesis Configuration Learning lessons is a fundamental part of any horror story, which makes Vid’s point fit smartly into the game, aping one of the mainstay themes of the genre no matter the medium – you learn or you die. Be it reversing your course to escape the looping room or outmanoeuvring Chatterer by discovering which corridor he doesn’t teleport in front of you in, understanding the importance of finding unconventional routes is crucial. Hints are offered by the labyrinth itself, although for some of the more traditional puzzles, like opening a safe via a sliding picture lock, clues can be something far less intimidating, such as discovering a diagram on a desk. But a chunk of progressing through Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival is through using the Genesis Configuration itself. While it can channel power for offensive abilities like setting enemies on fire, Vid reveals how it’s essential for overcoming many of the present environmental puzzles.  Some puzzles have clear binary solutions. One example is using the Genesis Configuration to rotate a giant wheel, which in turn would realign the narrow walkways Aidan found himself on within a spike-laden room to plot a safe route through. Another demoed its transformative properties: we stood in a courtyard hub, with three main gates. Each one could only be opened by retrieving a statue’s missing item – such as an appropriately macabre tongue or hand – and then changing the Genesis Configuration into the correct shape to act as a key. But there are others which have multiple ways of solving them. What those are, the studio remain tight-lipped, keen for players to discover themselves.  And while many revolve around traversal, the labyrinth itself, and all the horror that await within, there are a few incidental and familiar parts for survival horror fans. “We have classic lock pick mechanism puzzles as well [such as]safe combinations which reward you with useful items, like crafting resources, ammo, some nice upgrades, or even like a new weapon,” says Vid. “And you have to manage your inventory in a similar way to the Resident Evil games.” Inspiration outside of hell Between these types of traditional survival horror puzzles and more surreal, M.C. Escher inspired interiors that help fashion the environment, Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival is shaping up to be something fans will appreciate. The development team – fans themselves – also had the advantage of Clive Barker himself advising from its initial conception and Doug Bradley reprising his role as Pinhead from many of the movies, to help keep them on track. “They were a huge help, especially in giving us small details,” says Vid. “The pressure to make something to honor the franchise is always there, but it’s been alleviated by the positive response from the fans so far.” Prepare for oblivion With a campaign that Vid suggests could take over 12 hours to complete, Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival aims to deliver a sharp experience that captures the visceral and psychological intensity of its source material. And if you own a PS5 Pro, you can expect higher graphic settings and PSSR sSupport to hone in on the horror. Can your chattering nerves handle a piercing face to face with Pinhead and his cenobites? Find out on October 8 when Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival launches on PS5, available for pre-order now.

Title: (For Southeast Asia) Pulse Elevate wireless speakers launch November 12, 2026 Date: Wed, 19 Aug 2026 01:33:26 +0000 Link: https://blog.playstation.com/2026/08/18/20260818-speaker/ Update (August 19, 2026): Pulse Elevate wireless speakers in Midnight Black and White will launch starting on November 12, 2026,* with a recommended retail price (RRP) of  SGD 319 / MYR 1,099 / THB 8,499 / PHP 14,709 / VND 6,999,000. Pre-orders for Pulse Elevate speakers will be available starting from September 2, 2026 in local retailers.. With Pulse Elevate wireless speakers, experience lifelike audio for desktop gaming and on the go – read more about Pulse Elevate wireless speakers here. *Availability may vary by market and retailer. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image We’re excited to share a first look at the Pulse Elevate wireless speakers – the newest addition to our lineup of PlayStation audio accessories  – which we revealed earlier today during State of Play. Pulse Elevate builds upon the immersive next-level gaming audio experience we introduced to players with Pulse Elite wireless headset and Pulse Explore wireless earbuds, combining powerful technologies like planar magnetic drivers and PlayStation Link into new form factors for players to experience with their favorite games. As the first wireless speakers developed by Sony Interactive Entertainment, Pulse Elevate fits seamlessly in a PS5, PC, or Mac desktop gaming setup and can be enjoyed on the go with a PlayStation Portal remote player or smartphone. The wireless speakers feature exceptionally lifelike audio, ultra-low latency and lossless PlayStation Link wireless connectivity. Play Video Here’s an overview of the speakers’ key features: Lifelike desktop audio: Each speaker features studio-inspired planar magnetic drivers for lifelike sound across the entire audible spectrum. This means players can hear games exactly how developers intended – whether they’re playing on PS5, PC, Mac or PlayStation Portal.On the PS5 console, the driver technology further enhances immersion in PS5 games that support Tempest 3D AudioTech by positioning audio cues with incredible accuracy. The speakers also feature built-in woofers that deliver rich bass tones for a fuller soundscape. Built-in mic with AI-enhanced noise rejection: Pulse Elevate seamlessly introduces a high-quality voice chat experience into a desktop gaming setup with a microphone integrated within the right speaker. With AI-enhanced noise rejection technology, the mic also helps identify and remove unwanted background noise for crystal-clear voice communication, providing a new level of headset-free voice chat for desktop gaming. PlayStation Link ultra-low latency and multi-device connectivity: Pulse Elevate is powered by PlayStation Link technology for ultra-low latency and lossless connectivity to deliver sound as it happens on compatible devices including PS5, PC, Mac, and PlayStation Portal remote player. The speakers are also compatible with Bluetooth devices, so players can listen simultaneously via a PlayStation Link-connected device for in-game audio and a separate Bluetooth-enabled device for music, voice chat, and more. Pulse Elevate wireless speakers will feature a PlayStation Link USB adapter that is compatible with USB-C ports. Built for both desktop gaming and portability: With the built-in rechargeable battery, players can take Pulse Elevate on the go when gaming with a PlayStation Portal remote player via PlayStation Link, or with a mobile device or smartphone via Bluetooth. The included charging docks make it easy to jump back into a desktop gaming setup.  Highly customizable audio: Pulse Elevate speakers feature built-in volume controls and are designed to be easily adjusted for the ideal horizontal and vertical orientation in a player’s desktop setup. Players can further personalize their audio experience on PS5 or PC* with the option to adjust EQ, sidetone, volume, and mic mute settings directly via system menus. Pulse Elevate wireless speakers will launch in 2026 and will be available in both Midnight Black and White.** What games are you looking forward to trying with our new speakers? Stay tuned for more information on launch date and availability in the coming months. *PC options available post launch. **White available while supplies last from direct.playstation.com (where available) and select retailers. Availability may vary by country.

Title: New NBA 2K27 gameplay details on The City, co-op, MyNBA eras, and more Date: Tue, 18 Aug 2026 18:00:23 +0000 Link: https://blog.playstation.com/2026/08/18/new-nba-2k27-gameplay-details-on-the-city-co-op-mynba-eras-and-more/ Enter the World of 2K and get your competitive fix with the NBA 2K27 Preseason Breakdown: Game Reveal recap! Live from the Inuit Dome in Los Angeles, CA, NBA 2K hosted a 45-minute livestream detailing the most exciting updates and in-game enhancements coming in NBA 2K27. In case you missed it, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn more about what you missed from the August 18 showcase. Play Video Balanced gameplay Gameplay in NBA 2K27 strives for the most balanced experience to date, introducing meaningful new offensive tools like Step-Through Up-and-Unders and reworked defensive systems like improved Hands-Up Shot Contests to deliver a rewarding experience on both ends of the floor.  Powered by ProPlay, the game continues to push the limits of courtside authenticity by leveraging advanced machine learning capabilities. When you take the hardwood in 2K27, you’ll see heightened fidelity in animations and the real-time evolution of on-court adjustments. As players around the league find new ways to create separation, we’re finding new ways to innovate, giving hoopers of all skill levels the ultimate playground to prove they belong. Introducing a co-ed City For the first time, we’re introducing a co-ed City, where you can create a female MyPlayer and compete in The City alongside our global community of hoopers. All MyPlayers, male and female, are built on the exact same framework. Your height, badges, attribute ratings, and wingspan are strictly determined by the MyPlayer build you create, not your appearance. All game modes within The City are completely co-ed, with full access to The REC, The Theater, Street Kings, Park, Proving Grounds, Ante-Up, Starting Five, plus the all-new Crew HQ and Casual Corner. One thing to note: Female MyPlayers are a City-only experience. New environments to hoop in The Rec, The Theater, Ante-Up, and Seasonal Parks all feature brand-new environments. Based on community feedback, The Rec now rotates randomly between five unique environments available right at launch: High School Gym Outdoor Court Private Gym Crowded Arena Season-Themed Venue Builder customization & new Badge Tokens The biggest game-changer is the introduction of Badge Tokens, which you’ll use to equip Badges. In the Builder, you can see in real time how your selected size and position affect which Badges you qualify for and how many tokens each Badge will cost. The Builder provides real-time feedback, showing you the exact tokens required as you adjust your attributes.  There are 53 Badges in 2K27, including 19 brand-new Badges built to create a more balanced playing field. Badge synergy Unleash your full potential with the all-new Synergy system, the next evolution of Badges and boosts.  Synergy slots provide a +1 boost, or a massive +2 boost to your Badges. They are broken into two parts: Fuse and Reaction. Fuse Badges receive a permanent +1 or +2 boost for the entire game, pushing that Badge beyond its current tier to maximize its potential, even up to Legend tier.  Reaction Badges are directly paired with Fuse Badges. The effect is triggered automatically once you’ve activated your Fuse Badge a set number of times during a game. Once triggered, the Reaction Badge receives the same +1 or +2 boost for the rest of the game. Exchange without limits For the first time in MyTeam, you can exchange any of your Player Cards (Free Agent cards excluded), even cards earned from Season level rewards, for elite rewards. Every single card you earn, pull, or unlock is a meaningful asset toward building an unstoppable lineup. Even when you complete a Collection for a Collection Reward, cards will now become unauctionable rather than locked in, meaning they can still be used in The Exchange after being used to get a Collection Reward. MyNBA Legacy: Build a 100-Year Dynasty The headline addition to MyNBA in NBA 2K27 is MyNBA Legacy, a single-player, player-locked mode that bridges the gap between running the front office and dominating on the hardwood. Choose any player in the Modern Era, earn experience to upgrade their Attributes and Badges, and create a legend. Whether you’re committed to writing the next century of NBA history, or looking for a casual sandbox experience, MyNBA Legacy has something for everyone. MyCareer Eras For the first time in MyCareer, you can choose to step outside the modern NBA and build your career in one of five historical eras. We took the foundation of MyNBA Eras and brought it directly into MyCareer, allowing you to insert your MyPlayer into the exact moments that defined basketball history. Compete across five iconic eras: The Magic vs. Bird Era The Jordan Era The Kobe Era The LeBron Era The Steph Era Co-op MyCareer We’re bringing a massive community request to life: for the first time ever, you can invite a friend with NBA 2K27 to play co-op multiplayer directly in your MyCareer. This is made possible by your Running Mate, Trace Miller—a custom teammate you meet in the G League who stays with you all the way through your NBA career. When Trace is introduced, you choose one of nine build templates that feature shades of NBA superstars and earn points through gameplay to upgrade his attributes, Badges, and playstyle.  Your co-op partner takes control of Trace exactly as you’ve built him, and you both earn your own separate, full amounts of VC and Season XP.  Trace is the ultimate Running Mate, helping you unlock your full potential on the court. Grab your Crew and hit the courts in The City early by pre-ordering NBA 2K27 Deluxe Edition or Ultra Edition to receive up to 9 days of Early Access*, starting August 26. *Early access begins at 9:00am PT, August 26. Availability may vary by region and time zone. 

Title: Meet the Lovecraftian monstrosities of The Sinking City 2, out today on PS5 Date: Tue, 18 Aug 2026 14:00:44 +0000 Link: https://blog.playstation.com/2026/08/18/meet-the-lovecraftian-monstrosities-of-the-sinking-city-2-out-today-on-ps5/ Hi everyone, my name is Evgeny Maloshenkov, and I’m responsible for creature design at Frogwares, the team behind The Sinking City 2. When we started working on the sequel back in 2023, we knew we wanted to take the series in a new direction. The original The Sinking City was an open-world Lovecraftian detective adventure. But for the sequel, we went full force into semi-open-world survival horror, putting a much greater emphasis on combat, exploration, and survival, and of course, all still wrapped in that Lovecraft gloom. Play Video Investigation is still present, but now it’s an optional layer for players who want to dig deeper into Arkham’s mysteries. And those who do will be rewarded with useful knowledge, resources, shortcuts, and other useful rewards. The new stand-alone story – so you don’t need to know the original to enjoy this one-  takes place in Arkham after a mysterious flood engulfs the city. Eventually, with waters rising relentlessly, the population had to be evacuated, leaving behind only a handful of barely sane survivors and the Eldritch abominations that arrived with the flood. So with combat playing such an important role in The Sinking City 2, we thought it would be fun to take a closer look at five of our favourite enemies and how they evolved from early concepts into the creatures you’ll encounter in the game. Slither Worms and Abominations The Slither are among the most common enemies you’ll encounter in Arkham, and they were one of the first creatures we defined for the game. From the beginning, we knew we didn’t want “just another zombie.” Instead, we imagined the Slither as worm-like deep-sea parasites, ranging from finger-sized creatures to worms as long as an arm. Individually, they are barely sentient, but when they gather into colonies, they form a hive mind capable of controlling human corpses in service of Yog-Sothoth. One of our biggest design questions was: What does a corpse look like when it is being controlled by something that has never used a human body before?The worms control the body indirectly, moving muscles themselves from the inside and so they do so with less than 100% precision. We tried to show that through animations and behaviour  shoulders become dislocated, and limbs move in awkward, erratic ways.We also imagined the colony gradually “learning” how to operate its new body, resulting in tangled legs, overextended arms and strange little practice movements. Those ideas became the foundation for the two stages of Slither infestation, with the creature’s appearance and behaviour changing as the colony grows stronger and more confident. Stygian Harvester It might be small and relatively fragile, but that doesn’t make it harmless. Stygian Harvesters are dangerous because of their speed, numbers and ability to surprise the player. They dodge attacks, set up ambushes, and retreat into hiding when threatened, waiting for the right moment to strike again. The creature moves using long human arms ending in hands. This allows it to squeeze through tight spaces, cling to its surroundings and move in ways that feel distinctly wrong. It prefers darkness, where it can remain hidden and turn the environment itself into part of the ambush. Acheronian Juggernaut The Acheronian Juggernaut returns from the original game, and for a very simple reason: we still love its design. The creature looks like multiple bodies have been fused into one enormous, grotesque mass. It has six arms, six legs, and a huge open maw stretching from its head down through its torso. It can even swallow an entire human body and hold it inside while it slowly decomposes. The Acheronian is incredibly powerful and resilient, although its size makes it one of the slower enemies. Originally found in Oakmont, the largest Wylebeast in the city has now made its way to Arkham. Because we were already so happy with its visual design, we kept the changes relatively minimal. Instead, we totally redesigned its behaviour and attacks, with this version much better suited for creating a formidable enemy that will make you sweat in combat. Lethian Revenant Originally known simply as the Lethian, the Lethian Revenant is a human that transforms into a humanoid Wylebeast. The infection leaves the creature visibly diseased and unstable, but its most disturbing feature is its head. It splits open vertically, allowing the Revenant to spit blobs of bacterial fluid at the player from a distance. Its behaviour reflects its physical condition. The Revenant appears to be in constant pain and avoids direct confrontation whenever possible, relying on ranged attacks and retreating behind cover. For The Sinking City 2, we rebuilt the creature from scratch. Its model and textures were completely remade, while some animations from the original game were reused and expanded. We also reworked its wounds to create a much more fleshy appearance, with torn skin, exposed muscle, and dark pus oozing from its body. Deep One Raider No Lovecraftian game would be complete without Deep Ones! These ocean-dwelling creatures are humanoid in shape but distinctly fish-like in appearance. They can survive on land for extended periods and are biologically immortal, dying only through violence or accident. ​​ The Deep One Raider is a terrifying close-range opponent. It possesses immense physical strength and devastating claw attacks, but what makes it particularly unsettling is the way it moves. It can dodge in strange, inhuman ways, drop onto all fours and suddenly burst into a sprint before knocking its victim to the ground. Welcome to the Flood We’re so happy to say that The Sinking City 2 is out now on PlayStation 5! Getting here has been quite a journey. Making a game is difficult under normal circumstances, and doing it with a team in Ukraine while a war continues around us has presented challenges we could never have anticipated. There have been struggles along the way, but seeing the game finally in players’ hands makes us incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished. Thank you so much for reading, and we hope to see you in the flood!

Title: Black Myth: Zhong Kui shows off 15 minutes of rollparrysliceage, and I've just learned that the bloke it's named after was a lethally effective headbanger Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000 Link: https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/black-myth-zhong-kui-shows-off-15-minutes-of-rollparrysliceage-and-ive-just-learned-that-the-bloke-its-named-after-was-a-lethally-effective-headbanger Game Science have put out a fresh trailer showing off Black Myth: Zhong Kui, their follow-up to Chinese mythology-stuffed action-RPG Black Myth: Wukong, in action. A year on from its reveal at 2025's Gamescom, Zhong Kui's looking as slicey and rolly as its predecessor, despite a switch in protagonist. Read more

Title: A playable build of GTA 6 appears to have leaked, as Rockstar and Take-Two scramble to take down videos Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 11:19:55 +0000 Link: https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/a-playable-build-of-gta-6-appears-to-have-leaked-as-rockstar-and-take-two-scramble-to-take-down-videos The crypto-peddling hacker group who leaked footage of GTA 6 earlier this week appear to have access to a playable version of Rockstar and Take-Two Interactive's forthcoming open world game, if recent videos are any indication. Read more

Title: All of the pirates in Hooded Horse city builder Corsair Cove hate me because I can't make them eyepatches fast enough Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 11:00:00 +0000 Link: https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/all-of-the-pirates-in-hooded-horse-city-builder-corsair-cove-hate-me-because-i-cant-make-them-eyepatches-fast-enough Stories of pirates are full of swashbuckling, daring-do, and grog. But Limbic Entertainment's city builder Corsair Cove reveals those hijinx are only a sideshow: logistics is the star. As the proud owner of a tropical island surrounded by high seas dotted with patrolling Spanish galleons, pirate hunters, and kraken, your focus is squarely on building the infrastructure to support pillaging, rather than taking a firsthand approach to the scallywaggery. To keep your pirate populace happy, initially they'll only need basic food, drink, and shelter. In time, though, they'll start asking for finer things, like leather boots, jolly roger flags, and turtle soup. All of which you'll need to produce by rinsing the resource deposits on your island. Keep them happy, however, and they will set out on the ocean, crewing your vessels, and risking their lives against the threats that circle your enclave. As a fan of the Anno series, the first hours of Corsair Cove were enthralling, but the sheen did begin to rub off after eight hours or so. Right about the time my pirates started to hate me. Read more

Title: EA's Saudi takeover wouldn't have happened if the company's culture "had any semblance of a moral backbone", say staff fearing layoffs and ownership meddling Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2026 09:58:26 +0000 Link: https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/eas-saudi-takeover-wouldnt-have-happened-if-the-companys-culture-had-any-semblance-of-a-moral-backbone-say-staff-fearing-layoffs-and-ownership-meddling Now the ink's starting to dry on the Saudi Arabian government and Jared Kushner-backed takeover of EA, which has seen the company go private, staff are getting to grips with what the ownership change might mean for them going forwards. Fears of layoffs and teams or game series being sold off following the leveraged buyout hang in the air alongside unease about the effect the Saudi state's values might have on what gets the green light in future, with staff suggesting EA haven't done a very good job of alleviating such concerns. Read more

Title: Sony are rebooting their live service Horizon game as a more traditional co-op affair, claim sources, with a proper Horizon Forbidden West sequel still years away Date: Wed, 19 Aug 2026 15:10:15 +0000 Link: https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/sony-are-rebooting-their-live-service-horizon-game-as-a-more-traditional-co-op-affair-claim-sources-with-a-proper-horizon-forbidden-west-sequel-still-years-away Horizon Hunters Gathering, the live service multiplayer spin-off for PlayStation's post-apocalyptic Horizon series, is being rebooted as a smaller and more traditional co-op experience with a story mode, according to anonymous insiders. In the process, we're told, several of the project's staff are being reassigned within Sony's gamedev empire, even as a small team of Guerrilla Games work on the next "proper" singleplayer Horizon game. Read more