Epic Games
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Xbox Game Pass’ Super Meat Boy Tweet is Peak Gaming Social Media Weirdness
Xbox Game Pass's recent social media post questioning if Super Meat Boy could be the biohazard in Resident Evil 7 is analyzed as a prime example of modern, often forced, gaming marketing tactics. The article criticizes the trend of brands prioritizing viral engagement over authentic content and genuine community connection, suggesting a focus on highlighting indie developers or behind-the-scenes stories would be more beneficial.
"Fortnite's cultural moment is starting to fade," games analyst says amid mass layoffs, and its downturn is part of the "erosion of American leadership" in video games
Fortnite is experiencing a significant downturn in engagement, contributing to recent layoffs at Epic Games. Industry analyst Joost van Dreunen suggests this decline reflects a broader erosion of American cultural dominance in the video game industry, exacerbated by platform holders capturing disproportionate revenue compared to content creators.
This week's Epic Games freebie is 96%-rated on Steam, and lets you hack up robots while riding dinosaurs
Epic Games is offering the robot gladiator combat game Clone Drone in the Danger Zone for free until April 9, 2026. Developed by Doborog Games, the title features customizable robot avatars, physics-based combat where players can sever enemy body parts, and various multiplayer modes including battle royale and co-op. It holds an 'Overwhelmingly Positive' rating on Steam.
After Peak's Success, Its Devs Face Burnout and Big Decisions
This article examines the challenges faced by indie developers after achieving unexpected success, using examples like Aggro Crab's Peak and Kinetic Games' Phasmophobia. It highlights how sudden popularity can lead to burnout and pressure to meet player expectations for ongoing content, often diverging from the developers' original vision and resources.
The Last of Us Online was around '80%' complete when Naughty Dog canceled it
Former Naughty Dog game director Vinit Agarwal revealed that The Last of Us Online was approximately 80% complete when the studio canceled it in late 2023. Agarwal stated the decision was made to prioritize other projects, including one directed by company president Neil Druckmann. The article also touches on PlayStation's broader struggles with live service game development and recent layoffs.
SEGA Believes Not Catering to ‘Western Tastes’ Helped Sonic Music Go Global
Former Disney executive Kevin Mayer believes The Walt Disney Company's CEO Josh D'Amaro should consider bold steps in the video game industry, potentially including acquiring a company like Epic Games. Mayer suggests this could help Disney increase revenue and stock price, while SEGA notes that its Sonic music has achieved global success by not solely catering to 'Western tastes'.
Steam's upcoming homepage overhaul makes finding new games so much easier
Valve is overhauling Steam's homepage to make it easier for users to discover new games amidst a growing library and an influx of AI-generated content. The update will provide more information on why games are recommended, include micro-trailers, and streamline the Discovery Queue. New sections for wishlisted items and DLC will also be added.
MMO Business Roundup: Nintendo’s US patent, The Crew lawsuit, Epic helps a terminally ill former dev
This MMO business roundup covers several key industry events. Nintendo's attempt to patent a monster-summoning mechanic was rejected by the U.S. Patent Office, while Ubisoft faces a lawsuit in France over the shutdown of The Crew. Epic Games has committed to covering insurance costs for a terminally ill former employee laid off during recent company-wide reductions.
A Fortnite Toy Story Collab Leak Erupts Before An Official Announcement
A leak from a reliable Fortnite source suggests an upcoming collaboration between Fortnite and Disney's Toy Story franchise. The leak indicates that Buzz Lightyear and Zurg may be introduced as skins through a Showdown Cup, with potential for other Toy Story elements like the three-eyed Aliens to appear in-game. This follows a significant investment by Disney in Epic Games for a new entertainment universe.
Phasmophobia Haunts Gamers While Mario Gets a Major Upd... | TAG
Recent gaming news includes Mario Kart World receiving a patch that nerfs the Lightning Bolt item, a rumored Final Fantasy 9 remake being put on hold, and Amazon offering deals before its Big Spring Sale ends. Additionally, ASUS released the ROG Crosshair X870E Glacial motherboard, Disney is reportedly considering acquiring Epic Games, and a KPop Demon Hunters x McDonald's collaboration is being highlighted. Guides are also available for Crimson Desert's Secret Garden Abyss puzzle and Arc Raiders' Outstanding Balance quest.
After layoffs, Fortnite's future is shakier than it has ever been
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney announced layoffs affecting 1,000 employees, approximately one-fifth of the staff, due to spending exceeding revenue and a "downturn in Fortnite engagement." The article expresses concern for Fortnite's future, discussing potential impacts on game updates and the pressure on remaining staff to increase player engagement with fewer resources.
Fortnite's First Update Since Layoffs Adds Finger Guns Weapon, Big Heads and Shoulder Riding — All Just for 24 Hours
Fortnite has received its first update since Epic Games experienced significant layoffs, introducing temporary in-game features like finger guns, big heads, and shoulder riding. These comedic additions are available for only 24 hours.
Ken Kutaragi announced as first keynote speaker at Game Republic New Horizons 2026
Ken Kutaragi has been announced as the first keynote speaker for Game Republic New Horizons 2026. Former Disney executive Kevin Mayer suggested that The Walt Disney Company's CEO, Josh D'Amaro, should consider bold moves in the gaming sector, potentially including acquiring a company like Epic Games, to boost Disney's financial performance.
"Fortnite's Cultural Moment Is Starting To Fade," Expert Says
Industry expert Joost van Dreunen suggests that Fortnite's cultural dominance is waning, citing Epic Games' recent layoffs and stagnant user growth as evidence. While Fortnite remains popular, its "forever game" status is questioned, contrasting with Roblox's growth driven by user-generated content. Despite challenges, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney is seen as a resilient leader.
PlayStation’s Studio Business Group hit by layoffs
The Walt Disney Company's CEO, Josh D'Amaro, is reportedly a fan of gaming, leading to speculation that Disney could increase its involvement in the industry, potentially through acquiring a company like Epic Games. This comes as Sony's PlayStation Studio Business Group has been affected by layoffs, though the article focuses more on Disney's potential gaming ventures.
Lords of the Fallen 2 Release Date May Have Leaked via Developer Listing
A potential release date for Lords of the Fallen 2 on PC may have been revealed through a developer listing, indicating an Epic Games Store exclusivity. The article criticizes this decision, suggesting it will negatively impact sales and the developer's financial success due to the platform's perceived lack of marketing.
Fortnite Season 8 OG Pass: All Skins, Style Options, And Other Rewards
Fortnite's Season 8 OG Pass is now fully available, offering 44 unlockable items including skins like Synthesis, Blackheart, and Luxe, along with various accessories. The pass runs until June 17 and can be purchased for 800 V-Bucks or obtained through Fortnite Crew. Several free cosmetic items are also included for all players.
Fortnite's Wacky April Fools' Update Adds Big Heads, Rideable Llamas, And Finger Guns For 24 Hours
Fortnite received a 24-hour April Fools' Day update adding features like big heads, rideable llamas, finger guns, and disabling fall damage in unranked and Blitz matches. The update also included balance adjustments and accessibility options, alongside the start of Fortnite OG Season 8. This event follows recent layoffs at Epic Games due to a reported downturn in Fortnite engagement.
Fortnite’s Team Foundation vs Team IceKing Competition Has Players Choosing Sides
Fortnite has launched a new in-game team competition pitting #TeamFoundation against #TeamIceKing, encouraging players to choose a side and compete weekly. Epic Games is actively promoting the event, involving content creators like Leven2k to analyze player performance, though some players question the event's payoff and timing amidst existing game issues.
Moss Developer Polyarc Games Announces Layoffs
Polyarc Games, the developer behind the VR title Moss, has announced significant layoffs due to funding issues stemming from a cancelled major project. The studio, founded by former Bungie and Rockstar employees, cited the difficult decision to reduce its workforce, thanking impacted employees for their contributions. This follows a trend of challenges within the gaming industry, with other studios like Epic Games and Eidos Montreal also facing difficulties.
