Activision Blizzard
Activision Blizzard business and news from across the web.
“Not even the littlest bit": GTA 6 CEO doesn't think genAI will level the playing field for smaller devsTake-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick believes generative AI tools will not significantly level the playing field for smaller game developers, arguing that creating hits requires more than just asset generation. While acknowledging AI's potential for assisting in areas like storyboarding, he asserts that large-scale success still depends on human creativity and engagement, a sentiment echoed by Rockstar Games regarding Grand Theft Auto 6 development.
Take-Two boss declines to offer advice to the new Microsoft Gaming chief, says she'll be fine on her own: 'She’s a highly accomplished executive who’s done just great without ever having met me'Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick stated that Microsoft Gaming's new CEO, Asha Sharma, is a highly accomplished executive who will succeed without his advice. Zelnick emphasized that the key to success in the entertainment business is consistently making hit games, a principle he applies at Take-Two.- Echo Foundry Interactive Announces Launch Date for Sound System: October 16, 2026 – Priced at $24.99Echo Foundry Interactive announced that their new rhythm game, Sound System, will launch on Steam on October 16, 2026, for $24.99. The game features a community-driven content catalog, custom note chart creation tools, and various multiplayer modes. It aims to revive the rhythm game genre with a mix of classic and new music.
10 Hidden Liam Neeson Action Classics Worth DiscoveringThis article highlights ten underrated action films starring Liam Neeson beyond his iconic role in Taken. It explores films like 'Five Minutes of Heaven,' 'Darkman,' and 'The Grey,' showcasing his versatility in dramatic and action-packed roles.
Sound System Launches October 16 on Steam With Custom Chart CreationEcho Foundry Interactive announced that its new rhythm game, Sound System, will launch on PC via Steam on October 16, 2026, for $24.99. The game features classic rhythm gameplay, multiple modes for different skill levels, and a robust in-game chart creation tool called PulseMap Editor for community-driven content.
Xbox Project Helix Could Be A Make-Or-Break Moment For MicrosoftMicrosoft has revealed more details about its upcoming console/PC platform, codenamed Project Helix, with developer kits set to ship in 2028. Industry analysts suggest this indicates a consumer launch no earlier than 2028, potentially facing high prices due to component shortages like RAM. Project Helix is seen as a significant strategic move for Xbox, potentially marking a shift towards a PC-first ecosystem.
Games Inbox: Is Requiem the best Resident Evil game?Readers discuss their thoughts on Resident Evil Requiem, with some considering it among the best in the series, though slightly behind remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 4. The article also touches on Microsoft's lack of live service games, the potential of Crimson Desert, early gaming memories, and the advancements in graphics technology like ray tracing and upscaling.
Clair Obscur and Dispatch lead BAFTA Game Awards 2026 nominationsClair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Dispatch lead the BAFTA Game Awards 2026 nominations with 12 and nine nods respectively. A total of 42 titles received nominations across various categories, with Ghost of Yotei, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and Arc Raiders also securing multiple nominations. The awards ceremony is scheduled for April 17, 2026, in London.
Former Overwatch Boss Jeff Kaplan Has Some Advice For Gamers Who Complain About Games They'll Never Play: 'Shut the F*** Up. No One Cares' - IGNFormer Overwatch boss Jeff Kaplan shared his candid advice for gamers who complain about titles they have no intention of playing, stating they should "shut the f*** up" as "no one cares." Kaplan, who is now working on a new game called The Legend of California, expressed frustration with the negativity in gaming culture and advocated for more positive engagement with games.- MMO Week in Review: Pre-seasoning Elder Scrolls OnlineThis week's MMO news roundup covers updates for Elder Scrolls Online, World of Warcraft's Midnight expansion, and previews for Final Fantasy XIV and Palia. The article also discusses player tendencies to rush MMORPG expansions and features opinions on various titles and industry issues, including comments from Jeff Kaplan regarding Activision Blizzard.
'We Know They Want It': The Simpsons Showrunner Tops Up Hopium for Hit & Run PS5 RemasterThe Simpsons showrunner Matt Selman has expressed openness to a potential remaster of the beloved game The Simpsons: Hit & Run. While nothing is confirmed, Selman acknowledged the strong fan demand for the game's return, noting that "never say never" is his stance on the possibility. He also recalled development battles, such as fighting to include the ability to enter and exit cars, which was inspired by Grand Theft Auto III.
8 Hidden Gem Performances That Prove Christian Bale’s Range as an ActorThis article highlights eight underrated performances by actor Christian Bale, showcasing his versatility beyond his most famous roles. It details his commitment to physical transformations and nuanced portrayals in films like 'The Pale Blue Eye,' 'Hostiles,' and 'Rescue Dawn,' emphasizing his ability to bring depth to diverse characters.
How the Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 dev process powered creative design freedomThis article discusses the complex legacy of Phil Spencer's leadership at Xbox, with commenters debating his impact on the platform, Game Pass, and backwards compatibility. The conversation also touches on Microsoft's acquisitions of Activision Blizzard and their effect on industry consolidation and job losses.
Why Do Game Console Prices Keep Going Up?The ongoing global chip shortage, exacerbated by the massive demand for AI data centers, is driving up prices for gaming consoles and PC components. This situation is leading to longer console generations, potential consolidation in the PC building market, and a shift towards cloud gaming as a more accessible option for consumers. While the shortage presents challenges, it could also lead to developers focusing more on optimizing games for existing hardware, potentially resulting in better-designed and more accessible gaming experiences in the long run.