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US Patent Office revokes Nintendo's controversial Pokémon battling patent in nonfinal decision
The United States Patent and Trademark Office has issued a nonfinal decision to revoke Nintendo's controversial US patent 12,403,397, which described a system for battling summoned characters. This decision follows an ex parte reexamination ordered by the USPTO Director, citing similarities to prior art. Nintendo has the opportunity to appeal this ruling.
Analytics firm says Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 third-party ecosystem sales up 76% in 2025
Third-party software sales on the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 reached $2.3 billion in Q2-Q4 2025, a 76% increase year-on-year, according to analytics firm Ampere. Warner Bros. led third-party developers, followed by Bandai Namco and EA, driven by titles like Hogwarts Legacy.
Nintendo's 'Summon Character To Fight' Patent Rejected By US Patent Office
The US Patent Office has rejected Nintendo's patent for a 'summon character to fight' mechanic, a move that could impact its legal disputes with Palworld. The patent was revoked based on prior art, including patents from Konami and Bandai Namco, though Nintendo has a chance to respond. This decision comes after a rare re-examination order from the USPTO director.
Pikmin 4 Keychains Return to Japan
Bandai Namco Entertainment and Nintendo are re-releasing Pikmin mascot and fruit gummy keychains in Japan starting April 20, 2026. This marks the third appearance of the popular candy and accessory pack, which includes one random keychain and flavored gummies. The merchandise, first released in July 2024, will feature new Glow and Ice Pikmin types alongside previous characters.
Nintendo's legal fight with Palworld suffers a reversal as the USPTO reject their patent on character-summoning battle mechanics
The United States Patent and Trademark Office has issued a non-final rejection of Nintendo's patent for character-summoning battle mechanics, a decision that could impact the ongoing legal dispute with Palworld developer Pocketpair. While Nintendo has two months to respond, this ruling suggests the patent may not be as strong as initially believed, potentially affecting other games that utilize similar mechanics.
Here Are Your Free PlayStation Plus Essential Monthly Games For April, 2026
PlayStation Plus Essential members for April 2026 will receive Lords of the Fallen, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered, and Sword Art Online: Fractured Daydream. Lords of the Fallen is a dark fantasy action RPG for PlayStation 5, while Tomb Raider I-III Remastered offers classic adventures for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. Sword Art Online: Fractured Daydream is a multiplayer title for PlayStation 5.
Overlooked 1980s Movies You May Have Missed
This article highlights overlooked films from the 1980s that have since gained cult status. It features a list of movies such as "UHF," "The Mosquito Coast," and "The Last Starfighter," which were either commercially unsuccessful or overshadowed by bigger releases at the time but are now appreciated for their unique storytelling and bold experiments.
Tales of Berseria Remastered Launch Videos Feature New Japanese Voice Cast Recordings
Bandai Namco has released new videos celebrating the launch of Tales of Berseria Remastered, featuring newly recorded Japanese voice lines from the main cast. The remaster includes quality-of-life improvements and is available on PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. The original Tales of Berseria has sold 2.5 million units.
The Idolmaster English Social Media Opens Ahead of US Concerts
Bandai Namco has launched an official English social media account for The Idolmaster series on X, ahead of two concert performances at Anime Central 2026 in Rosemont, Illinois. While no new game information was revealed, details for the May 15, 2026 concerts featuring characters from the original game and its mobile follow-up have been confirmed.
All PS Plus Essential April Monthly Free Games Leaked Thus Far
Leaked information suggests that Lords of the Fallen and Sword Art Online: Fractured Daydream will be among the PlayStation Plus Essential free games for April 2026, with both titles being PS5-exclusive. A potential third game, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, was briefly seen on the PlayStation Store but is considered unlikely to be offered for free.
Code Vein II Collaboration Artwork by The Vampire Dies in No Time Creator Revealed
Bandai Namco has revealed new collaborative artwork for Code Vein II, created by Itaru Bonnoki, the artist behind The Vampire Dies in No Time manga. The artwork features the game's protagonist and Lou Magmell in Bonnoki's distinct style. Code Vein II introduces new mechanics like Rune Blades and Dual Swords, an enhanced Jail system, and the Assimilation system for companions, and is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
UK software sales chart for the week ending March 28, 2026 – Mario Kart World still doing well
The UK software sales chart for the week ending March 28, 2026, shows Mario Kart World holding strong at number two. Super Mario Bros. Wonder re-entered the top ten, boosted by its Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. The chart features a wide range of titles from various publishers, including EA SPORTS FC 26, Resident Evil Requiem, and Assassin's Creed Shadows.
The Best Xbox Game Pass Games In 2026
This guide highlights the best games available on Xbox Game Pass in 2026, covering a wide range of genres from roguelites to open-world adventures. It details different subscription tiers and provides brief descriptions of each recommended title, including recent additions and critically acclaimed games from previous years.
Gundam Epyon Apex Legends Alter Version Color Scheme Pops
Bandai Namco has released the RG 1/144 Gundam Epyon Alter Version model kit, featuring a color scheme inspired by the Apex Legends character Alter. This intricate kit requires careful assembly and offers a transformation into mobile armor mode. The crossover event also includes model kits based on Crypto and Valkyrie, with all three releasing in September 2026.
Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Starts Revealing its Fighter Jets With New Screenshots
Bandai Namco has begun revealing details for the upcoming Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve, releasing new screenshots that showcase the game's fighter jets. This marks an early look at the anticipated combat flight simulation title.
Bluey’s Happy Snaps Brings Bluey’s World to PC and Consoles Later in 2026
Gameloft has announced Bluey's Happy Snaps, a new family adventure game centered on photography and exploration, set to launch in 2026 for PC and consoles including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch. Developed in collaboration with Ludo Studio and BBC Studios, the game will feature local co-op play and a premium release model with no online purchases or microtransactions.
Shadow Labyrinth Won't Be Consumed
This opinion piece argues that video games, unlike passive media, are inherently recontextualized by the player's interaction. It discusses the reception of Shadow Labyrinth, a Pac-Man reimagining, suggesting that the controversy stems from a fear of interpretation and a desire to preserve a perceived original simplicity. The author posits that all engagement with a game is an intervention, making the fantasy of untouched play false.
Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (28th March)
Several gaming industry figures share their weekend gaming plans, with titles like Super Mario Bros. Wonder, Pokopia, and Deadzone: Rogue being frequently mentioned. Discussions also touch upon Nintendo's digital game pricing strategy for the Switch 2 and hardware considerations like new laptops and the AYN Thor.
Before Ace Combat 8 Soars onto PS5, Watch the Series' Evolution in Neat New Trailer
A new trailer showcases the evolution of the Ace Combat series ahead of the upcoming Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve, which is slated for release on PlayStation 5 in 2026. The trailer highlights the series' progression from its early PlayStation titles to the best-selling Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown.
G’AIM’E Lightgun Preview – Cutting-Edge Tech With Old-School Cool!
Tassei Denki's G'AIM'E Lightgun aims to bring classic arcade experiences like Time Crisis and Point Blank to modern televisions. Officially licensed by Bandai Namco, the plug-and-play device features automatic display detection and calibration for accuracy on LCDs and other modern screens. The G'AIM'E Lightgun also includes recoil and an optional foot pedal for an authentic retro feel.