Microsoft's recent widespread layoffs have resulted in Xbox granting independence to studios like Compulsion Games and Double Fine. This move is seen by some as a positive step for indie development, despite the devastating job losses. The situation has also fueled discussions about worker-owned studios as a more sustainable model for the industry.
Rebel Wolves' upcoming RPG, The Blood of Dawnwalker, showcases tomb raiding and investigative gameplay. Players can switch between human and vampiric forms, impacting combat and exploration. The game emphasizes player choice and a dynamic narrative within a 30-day time limit.
Developers have unveiled significant expansions for Warframe, including a new solar system and lore additions. This marks a major shift in the game's ongoing narrative and future direction. Anticipation is building among players for the upcoming TennoCon 2026 event.
Bithell Games has revealed Vampirium: 1997, a new immersive sim. Players will serve as an assassin for Dracula, the King of England. The game is set for a Steam Early Access launch and will feature tactical gameplay with vampiric power upgrades.
Riot Games has officially announced League of Legends Classic, a new mode bringing back older game elements. This nostalgic experience will feature original character kits, skins, and runes from the game's early days. More details are expected to be revealed during the upcoming MSI Finals esports event.
I Shall Name The Dead is a new narrative horror adventure game. Players will guide Imaculada, a woman who can communicate with the deceased. This surreal, hand-drawn experience is slated for a PC release in early 2027.
Erenshor has launched its largest update, Planar March, introducing EverQuest-style raids for solo players. The update features four new zones, over 20 bosses, and more than 120 new gear pieces. Players can now experience extensive endgame content with AI-powered raid groups.
New data center projects are under fire for potentially massive greenhouse gas emissions, exceeding those of entire nations. Concerns are also mounting over the significant electricity consumption of existing facilities in regions like Ireland. Meanwhile, innovative battery technologies are being explored to help manage data center power demands.
The Steam Social Deduction Fest is currently underway, offering discounts on party games. This event highlights titles that require detective skills and social interaction. A new official trailer for the fest has also been released and will be available next week.
The annual speedrunning marathon Summer Games Done Quick 2026 has concluded, successfully raising over $2.4 million for Doctors Without Borders. This year's event featured impressive runs of games like Kirby Air Ride and Balatro. Games Done Quick's cumulative charitable contributions have now surpassed $62 million since its inception.
Diablo 4 Season 14 is set to launch soon, bringing significant updates. Patch notes reveal numerous adjustments to gameplay mechanics and systems. Players can anticipate a notable shift, including the 'death of uniques'.
The realistic forensic investigation simulator has launched today. Developed with expert insight from law enforcement, it challenges players to meticulously analyze evidence. It is available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
The New York Times Connections game continues to challenge players with its daily word puzzles. Recent editions, including game #1116 from July 1, have featured categories like "Things Named After Places" and "Best Picture Winners." Players can find hints and answers to help them solve these engaging word groupings.
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma has revealed that significant layoffs and restructuring were necessary due to a lack of focus. She stated the company spread its resources too thin across various ventures. These changes aim to refocus on the core console business and address hardware challenges.
Digital Extremes has unveiled Warframe: Tau, a significant expansion introducing a new solar system. This update features a grim, noir-inspired city hub and explores themes of addiction and exploitation. Players can expect a new detective Warframe voiced by Matthew Mercer, alongside other upcoming content like an ice-themed Warframe.
Crimson Desert has seen multiple recent updates, including versions 1.12.00, 1.12.01, and 1.12.02. These patches focus heavily on expanding player housing with new decorations and craftable items. Updates also include combat refinements, character enhancements, and numerous quality-of-life improvements and bug fixes.
A new remake of Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag has launched, updating the classic pirate adventure with enhanced graphics and gameplay. While some praise its modernization and faithful spirit, others argue it fails to capture the original's essence. The remake's reception is mixed, with debates centering on its changes to combat, stealth, and the modern-day narrative.
The hand-drawn isometric action RPG Lunarium will launch on PC via Steam. Players will control two protagonists, Ave and Lune, in a crumbling world. The game is priced at $17.99 and features a companion system.
Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced enhances the original with updated graphics and new content. However, some reviewers find that changes to core mechanics detract from the experience. Ultimately, the remake's strengths are debated, with some preferring the original's feel.
The co-op platformer Brave Escape will launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. It arrives on July 24th, 2026, with all PC content and new levels. Cross-platform multiplayer will connect console and PC players.
