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Italian studio 34BigThings regains independence from Embracer
Italian game studio 34BigThings has regained its independence from Embracer Group, with co-founder Valerio Di Donato reacquiring 100 percent of the company's shares. The studio, which develops titles like Redout II, plans to announce a major new title later this year and has further projects slated for 2027 and 2028. This move comes as Embracer Group undergoes significant restructuring and divestments.
Redout Dev Now Fully Independent, Teases 'Major Title' Based on 'Revered' IP
Italian development studio 34BigThings, known for the Redout series, has announced it is once again fully independent after co-founder Valerio Di Donato bought back shares from Embracer Group. The studio is teasing a major new title based on a 'revered' intellectual property, with further projects planned for 2027 and 2028.
Italy's second-largest independent game studio buys its independence from Embracer
Italian game studio 34BigThings has regained its independence from Embracer Group after six years. Co-founder Valerio Di Donato acquired full ownership and will lead the studio alongside Giuseppe Enrico Franchi and CFO Daniel Giagnorio. The studio plans to announce a major title later this year and has further projects slated for 2027 and 2028.
Business and Finance
Tencent is reportedly in discussions to divest its stakes in several Japanese game studios, potentially incurring a loss. Meanwhile, Italy's second-largest independent game studio has successfully bought back its independence from Embracer Group.
Sony's PS6 is still coming out in 2027 suggests hardware insider
Despite ongoing memory shortages, insider KeplerL2 suggests Sony's PlayStation 6 will still launch in 2027 as planned, refuting reports of a potential delay to 2028 or 2029. This aligns with previous insights from Moore's Law Is Dead, indicating that manufacturing contracts are in place and would be costly to terminate. The article also notes the recent price increase of the PlayStation 5 and speculates on the higher cost of its successor.
Sony is considering pushing the PS6 to 2028 or 2029, "some analysts believe," according to Embracer Group
Sony is reportedly considering delaying the launch of the PlayStation 6 to 2028 or 2029, according to Embracer Group's financial report. Analysts believe factors like increased RAM costs due to AI demand and economic volatility are influencing this potential shift from the previously rumored 2027 release window. These economic pressures could impact console retail prices and market growth.
'A new industry with a new identity:' How Canadian devs are faring in 2026
The Canadian games industry is undergoing a transformation, moving away from a reliance on triple-A development and tax incentives towards a more resilient model focused on indie studios and community collaboration. Despite recent layoffs and studio closures, there is optimism for a new identity centered on smaller, agile teams that can validate market potential through evidence like wishlists and community engagement, supported by systems like the Canadian Media Fund.
Fares-studion Hazelight vinner regeringens exportpris
Hazelight Studios, founded by Josef Fares, has been awarded the Swedish Government's Export Prize for the cultural and creative industries. The award recognizes the studio's global success and contribution to promoting Sweden as an innovative country. This follows critical acclaim and strong sales for their game It Takes Two.
Six years after its announcement, SiN Reloaded finally has a Steam demo
Six years after its initial announcement, SiN Reloaded, a remaster of the classic 1990s first-person shooter, has released a demo on Steam. Developed by Nightdive Studios, the remaster features updated textures, 4K resolution, 144 FPS support, and an overhauled UI and control scheme. The project faced development hurdles, including a split with 3D Realms and Nightdive's focus on the System Shock remake, but is now slated for a full release before the end of the year.
Playstack sold, Xbox announces business 'reset,' and is generative AI poisoning the well? - Patch Notes #56
Playstack has been sold to Integrated Media Company, with TruFin divesting its majority stake. Xbox announced a business 'reset' involving potential layoffs and studio closures, as confirmed by leaders Asha Sharma and Matt Booty. Concerns are also rising about generative AI's impact on the industry, with Take-Two's former head of AI, Luke Dicken, expressing worries about the current hype cycle.
Analyst: Q1 2026 revenue figures show there is still demand for compelling single-player video games
Global game content revenue saw a 3.6% year-over-year increase in Q1 2026, reaching $54.14 billion, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. Companies like Capcom and Pearl Abyss reported significant growth, driven by titles such as Resident Evil Requiem and Crimson Desert, indicating continued consumer demand for compelling single-player experiences alongside live-service games. PC emerged as the fastest-growing platform.
The New Guitar Hero–Err, Stage Tour–Reveals Its First Songs
RedOctane Games, a studio evolved from the creators of Guitar Hero, has revealed the first seven songs for its upcoming music game, Stage Tour. The tracklist includes songs from bands like Red Hot Chili Peppers, Weezer, and Ghost. The game will feature traditional music game peripherals and is set to launch later this year on PC and consoles.
Lords of the Fallen II Reveals Brutal New Gameplay at Nintendo Direct; Nintendo Switch™ 2 Version Confirmed for 2026 Release
CI Games has confirmed that Lords of the Fallen II will be released on the Nintendo Switch 2 system in 2026, marking the first time the franchise will appear on a Nintendo platform. The soulslike action-RPG will also launch on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, featuring Unreal Engine 5 visuals and an enhanced combat system.
Embracer-owned VR developer Vertigo Games closes Amsterdam studio
Embracer Group-owned Vertigo Games has closed its Amsterdam studio, the team behind the VR title Metro Awakening. CEO Richard Stitselaar cited challenging conditions in the VR market for the decision. Metro Awakening launched in 2024 to critical acclaim but did not meet sales expectations.
One of the biggest VR developers in the business closes a studio: 'The VR market remains a challenging space'
VR development studio Vertigo Games has announced the closure of its Amsterdam studio, citing the challenging nature of the VR market. CEO Richard Stitselaar stated the decision was difficult and acknowledged the impact on employees. This follows similar struggles in the VR space, including Meta's closure of multiple VR studios and layoffs.
Quiet As A Shadow: Thief: The Dark Project Remastered Redefines Stealth For A New Generation
Nightdive Studios, Eidos-Montréal, and Atari have announced Thief: The Dark Project Remastered, a modern revival of the 1998 stealth classic. Utilizing Nightdive's KEX Engine, the remaster includes the original game and content from Thief Gold, launching this Winter on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, PC platforms, and previous generation consoles. The game emphasizes pure stealth gameplay, rewarding players for using light, sound, and misdirection to overcome challenges.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin is Platinum's next action game, and it's coming from…
Paramount Games Studio has announced its first game: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin, developed by PlatinumGames. The game is set in a future New York City and follows a lone turtle seeking revenge for his brothers' deaths. It will be released on PC and consoles, with no specific release date yet.
VR developer Vertigo Games shutters Amsterdam studio
VR developer Vertigo Games has closed its Amsterdam studio due to ongoing challenges within the virtual reality industry. CEO Richard Stitselaar expressed gratitude for the team's contributions and stated the company's focus is on supporting affected employees. This closure reflects broader difficulties in the VR sector, with other companies like Rec Room and Polyarc Games also experiencing cutbacks.
A Double Dose of Cute ‘Em Up Action as Cotton Reboot! And Cotton Reboot! High Tension! Return for 2026 Releases
Clear River Games announced that Cotton Reboot! and Cotton Reboot! High Tension! will receive physical and digital releases on October 22, 2026. Both titles will be available on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5, with High Tension! also coming to PlayStation 4. These releases aim to bring the classic cute 'em up experience to both new and returning fans.
Culdcept The First Becomes Playable in the West with New Demo today
Clear River Games, in partnership with City Connection and Omiya Soft, has released a playable demo for Culdcept The First, a remake of the 1997 SEGA Saturn title. The demo, available on Steam, allows players to carry over collected cards to the full PC release, which launches on July 30th. The game will also be released on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S shortly after.