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'Many people want to use VPNs for privacy—that is important—but we know that some children use them to get around restrictions': UK government considering VPN ban
The UK government is considering new restrictions on Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), potentially banning their use for individuals under 16 to prevent them from bypassing age verification checks on social media. While acknowledging the privacy benefits of VPNs for adults, the government is researching their use by children to circumvent online restrictions. Further statements on potential VPN regulations are expected in July.
'Some Analysts Believe Sony Is Considering Pushing the PS6 Back': Embracer Report Hints at Later Than 2027 Launch
Analysts suggest Sony may delay the PlayStation 6 launch from 2027 to 2028 or 2029 due to soaring component costs affecting consumer electronics. Embracer's annual report acknowledges this possibility, noting potential issues with manufacturing contracts and the risk of the console feeling outdated if delayed without re-specification. The article also touches on Microsoft's potential retooling of its next-gen Xbox hardware.
Amid all the closures and layoffs, the global games market has apparently passed $200 billion in yearly revenue for the…
The global games market has surpassed $200 billion in yearly revenue for the first time, reaching $201.6 billion according to Newzoo, an increase of 9.1% year-on-year. Mobile gaming leads this growth, followed by PC and console gaming, despite widespread industry layoffs and studio closures. This financial success contrasts sharply with the recent difficulties faced by many companies and employees within the sector.
Old iPods are making a comeback thanks to Gen Z
The article humorously suggests the return of the Microsoft Zune in response to the resurgence of old iPods among Gen Z. This implies a trend of older technology gaining popularity with younger generations.
Famitsu Sales: 6/8/26 – 6/14/26
Famitsu has released its physical game sales data for Japan for the week of June 8-14, 2026. Powerful Pro Baseball 2026-2027 for Nintendo Switch was the top seller, with 100,976 units sold. Hardware sales were led by the Nintendo Switch 2, followed by the PlayStation 5 family of consoles.
Amid Concern Over Xbox Studio 'Bloodbath,' New Report Says Developers Are Being 'Punished Today for Following Orders'
A new report indicates significant layoffs are expected within Xbox studios, potentially leading to studio closures. Developers are reportedly feeling punished for following company directives amidst these organizational changes.
Call Of Duty: Black Ops 1 and 2 ports are skipping Xbox but for a good reason
Treyarch and Activision are releasing ports of Call of Duty: Black Ops and Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 for PlayStation consoles in July. These are straight ports, not remasters, and will include campaign, multiplayer, and Zombies modes. The omission of an Xbox release is due to the games already being available via backwards compatibility on Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
This Lego pinball machine actually works, and it's a love letter to all things '70s arcades
Lego is releasing a fully functional Arcade Pinball Machine set on July 4, 2026, featuring a space theme reminiscent of '70s arcades and a playable pinball mechanism. The 2,274-piece set includes two minifigures and is priced at £189.99 in the UK. This interactive toy follows Lego's trend of releasing "interactive" products in 2026.
Apple Says Price Hikes Are Coming, But Won’t Say Which Devices Will Be Hit
Apple CEO Tim Cook has indicated that price increases for its hardware are unavoidable due to ongoing component shortages and rising costs. While specific devices were not named, the company is working to mitigate the impact on consumers. The Mac Mini has already seen a price hike, and similar increases may affect iPhones and other products.
No, Tom Cruise wasn't nearly Halo's Master Chief, and Julia Roberts wasn't nearly in the series either - but there was this conversation at a party
Contrary to rumors, Tom Cruise and Julia Roberts were never close to being cast in Halo. Voice director Marty O'Donnell confirmed a conversation at a party where a casting agent proposed Cruise as Master Chief and Roberts as Cortana for Halo 2, but O'Donnell rejected the idea, prioritizing the established fan connection with original voice actors Steve Downes and Jen Taylor.
Elder Scrolls and Fallout developer Bethesda "will be fine" as "they make all the money," but layoffs for the rest of ZeniMax "have begun," Duke Nukem co-creator says
George Broussard, co-creator of Duke Nukem, has confirmed that layoffs have begun at ZeniMax Media, the parent company of Bethesda Game Studios. While Bethesda is reportedly unaffected due to its profitability, other studios under ZeniMax may face deeper cuts. Broussard attributes these issues partly to mismanagement and recent changes within Microsoft's Xbox division.
Xbox's latest tactics display 'a basic misunderstanding of how the interactive entertainment world moves', says former PlayStation exec
Former PlayStation executive Shawn Layden believes Xbox's recent strategic decisions demonstrate a fundamental misunderstanding of the interactive entertainment industry. He criticizes the company's studio closures, reliance on live service games, and industry consolidation. Former Activision CEO Bobby Kotick also previously advised Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella against entering the gaming market, citing a lack of creative DNA.
Games Inbox: Do you need to buy a PS5 Pro to play GTA 6?
A reader expresses concern about how Grand Theft Auto 6 will perform on a standard PlayStation 5, speculating that a PlayStation 5 Pro might be necessary. The article also touches on industry topics like Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard, Capcom's success, and the merits of game remakes versus new titles.
Xbox is Punishing its Studios For Following Previous Orders – Report
A report indicates that Xbox is punishing its studios for following previous directives, leading to significant layoffs and studio closures. This follows major investments like the Activision Blizzard acquisition and the push for Game Pass, with some studios being criticized for prioritizing the subscription service over individual game sales. The situation has created an environment of fear and uncertainty, impacting game development.
Anyone Not Working on The Elder Scrolls or Fallout at Bethesda is Being Laid Off – Rumor
Reports suggest that ZeniMax Media, including studios like Bethesda Game Studios and id Software, is undergoing significant layoffs, with employees not working on The Elder Scrolls or Fallout projects being particularly affected. This comes amid broader Xbox restructuring and potential studio closures for titles like Hellblade and South of Midnight, as executives cite revenue losses and rising hardware costs.
Xbox’s Biggest Problems May Still Be Ahead
Xbox is facing significant internal challenges despite a recent showcase of upcoming games like Gears of War: E-Day. CEO Asha Sharma admitted to substantial financial losses and poor investment returns over the past five years, citing issues with funding franchises and inadequate infrastructure. Reports suggest impending layoffs and potential restructuring, including spinning off Xbox as a subsidiary or forming joint ventures, as Microsoft seeks to make its gaming division a sustainable business.
Report: Redundancies at Microsoft owned Zenimax have begun
Microsoft has reportedly begun significant layoffs and studio closures within its Zenimax Media division, which includes Bethesda, id Software, and Arkane Studios. Ninja Theory, Compulsion Games, and Double Fine Productions are also facing potential shutdowns. This news follows recent announcements about Xbox game exclusivity and a reported decline in profitability, indicating a major business reset for the brand.
Black Ops and Black Ops II are being ported to PS4 and PS5
Treyarch has announced that Call of Duty: Black Ops and Call of Duty: Black Ops II are being ported to PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 by Iron Galaxy. These ports will include the single-player campaign, multiplayer, and Zombies modes and are expected to release in July. The announcement comes despite Microsoft's acquisition of Activision, making these specific ports exclusive to PlayStation consoles.
'There Are Other Xbox Studios in Trouble': Ominous Reports as Microsoft 'Bloodbath' Looms
Journalist Jason Schreier reports that Xbox is facing significant layoffs and potential studio closures beyond Ninja Theory, Double Fine, and Compulsion Games. These "bloodbath" events are expected within the next two weeks, with negotiations underway for studio spin-offs or sales. The situation is attributed to financial pressures, including the costly Activision Blizzard acquisition and a failure to grow Game Pass significantly.
Canceled Project Blackbird May Have Been Perfect Replacement For Destiny, Insider Says
Insider reports suggest Microsoft's canceled action-RPG MMO, Project Blackbird, could have been a successful replacement for Destiny 2. Developed by the ZeniMax team, the game was reportedly canceled in mid-2025 due to financial reasons, despite positive internal feedback. Its cancellation is seen as a missed opportunity for Xbox to fill a void in the live-service market.