Industry Trends
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Nintendo probably won't ditch physical games just because PlayStation is, analyst predicts: "Nintendo is going…
Industry analyst Mat Piscatella predicts Nintendo will not follow Sony's lead in phasing out new physical game releases by 2028. Piscatella stated that Nintendo operates independently and is unlikely to alter its strategy based on competitors' decisions. Despite the industry shift towards digital, Nintendo maintains a strong physical market share, particularly with the Nintendo Switch.
Games Inbox: Will the PS6 really cost £1,000?
Readers discuss concerns about the potential high price of the PlayStation 6, with some predicting it could exceed £1,000. The discussion touches on the rising costs of game development, the shift towards digital-only releases, and whether next-generation consoles offer enough compelling new features to justify such an expense.
Will GTA 6 Cause the End of Disc Copies?
Grand Theft Auto 6 is reportedly moving away from disc copies, even for physical editions, instead providing a download code. This decision by Rockstar Games has sparked debate about the future of physical media in the gaming industry and concerns over digital ownership versus true ownership of a purchased game.
Has $80 GTA 6 Opened the Door to More Expensive Games? Analysts Respond
Rockstar Games has confirmed Grand Theft Auto 6 will launch at a $80 price point, prompting speculation among analysts about the future prevalence of $80 games. The article explores whether other publishers can successfully implement similar pricing strategies.
GTA 6 isn't $100, but its real price proves games are only going to get more expensive
Grand Theft Auto 6 will launch at $80, establishing a new price point that signifies a trend towards more expensive video games. This price increase, while higher than the current $70 standard, is seen by some as a reflection of rising development costs and the premium status of the franchise. The article discusses the potential impact on the industry and consumer accessibility, noting the absence of a PC version at launch.
Eidos Montreal founder says modern execs are driven more by spreadsheets than passion for games
Stephane D'Astous, founder of Eidos Montreal, believes modern game executives are driven more by financial spreadsheets than a genuine passion for games. He notes the shift from smaller, more personal decision-making to large, financially motivated corporate strategies, citing the increased influence of entities like Tencent and sovereign wealth funds. D'Astous feels this change has led to unrealistic expectations and a less creative development environment.
Games Inbox: Is Call Of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 set to be a flop?
This opinion piece discusses the potential failure of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, attributing it to a lack of direction and the series coasting on its name. It also touches on reader opinions regarding Grand Theft Auto 6 pre-orders, studio closures by major companies, and Nintendo's strategy with remakes.
The two best years in video game history were both in the 2010s - Reader's Feature
A reader argues that 2011 and 2013 were the best years in video game history, citing a high volume of quality releases and industry-shifting console launches. The article details numerous significant titles from both years, including The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword, Skyrim, The Last of Us, and Grand Theft Auto 5, alongside the debut of the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
'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.
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.
Games Inbox: Is Xbox worth saving?
This article discusses the uncertain future of Xbox, with readers expressing concern over potential studio closures and a lack of innovation. The piece contrasts Xbox's current strategy with past industry practices of companies like Electronic Arts and questions whether Xbox deserves to be saved given its perceived mismanagement and impact on developers.
Ori Dev CEO Says Xbox Was Too Focused On Protecting Its Legacy To Build Its Future
Moon Studios CEO Thomas Mahler believes Xbox's focus on legacy intellectual properties like Halo, Gears of War, and Forza hindered its ability to cultivate new talent and games. He suggests that Xbox should prioritize empowering creative individuals and teams who understand the gaming audience, rather than relying solely on nostalgia.
Rumour: Gaming Industry 'Bloodbath' Imminent, as Sony, Microsoft, and More Brace for Mass Layoffs
A report suggests that the gaming industry is facing imminent mass layoffs, with major publishers like Sony and Microsoft potentially cutting entire studios. French journalist Sylvain Trinel indicated that the current situation at Xbox is just the beginning of a larger 'bloodbath' for studios, also highlighting concerns for companies like Don't Nod, Quantic Dream, id Software, Bethesda, and BioWare. Speculation also points to potential issues for PlayStation studios such as Media Molecule and Bend Studio.
The Morning After: Apple's quest to make AI useful to its users
Apple's recent Worldwide Developers Conference focused on integrating Artificial Intelligence in a practical manner for users, rather than introducing numerous flashy features. The company aims to make AI useful and accessible within its existing ecosystem.
The most upsetting thing about Xbox’s SGF showcase was Marcus Fenix’ jacket
Xbox's recent Summer Games Fest showcase highlighted a shift back towards console exclusivity with titles like Gears of War E-Day and Clockwork Revolution. This strategic change, spearheaded by new CEO Asha Sharma, aims to re-establish Xbox as a distinct console platform amidst an identity crisis and declining Game Pass subscriber growth. While some previously multiplatform titles will remain available on PlayStation 5, the move signifies a renewed focus on selling Xbox hardware.
At Summer Game Fest 2026, video games retreat to the safety of the past
The Summer Game Fest 2026 showcased a strong trend of developers relying on established franchises, sequels, and remakes rather than introducing new intellectual properties. While notable exceptions exist, the overall emphasis on recognizable titles suggests a retreat to safer, familiar ground within the industry amidst financial pressures. This focus on nostalgia and past successes, though generating excitement, raises questions about the future of innovation in gaming.
Reaction: Some PS5 Fans Think SGF Showed Sony Losing Its Grip on Third-Parties
Some PlayStation 5 owners are concerned that Sony is losing its influence over third-party game reveals, as major announcements like Resident Evil Veronica, Final Fantasy 7 Remake, and Stellar Blade were made at Summer Game Fest instead of a PlayStation event. While these games are still launching on PS5, the shift in reveal venues has sparked debate about Sony's relationship with publishers in an increasingly multiplatform industry.
Feature: Nintendo Switch 2: Year One - Looking Back, How Would You Rate It So Far?
This article looks back at the first year of the Nintendo Switch 2, which launched in June 2025. It recaps the major game releases, including both new titles and enhanced versions of existing games, and discusses the challenges faced by Nintendo and the industry during this period. The piece also includes impressions from the editorial team and reader polls to gauge satisfaction with the console's debut year.
Gaming industry pioneer Don Daglow reflects on key moments of his career
Gaming industry veteran Don Daglow reflects on his five-decade career, from early mainframe experiments to pioneering MMORPGs and city-building games. He emphasizes the importance of player connection and fun over technological spectacle, drawing parallels between early interactive theater and modern game design. Daglow also shares insights on industry cycles, the risks of large budgets, and the enduring value of emotionally resonant games.
PlayStation first-party sales see modest rebound after half-decade decline
PlayStation first-party game sales saw a modest increase to 32.1 million copies in FY2025, the first upturn in five years, following a significant decline since a peak in 2020-2021. This growth is attributed partly to the release of Ghost of Yōtei, while the overall decline was linked to inconsistent studio output and lengthy development cycles. Sony has also reportedly scaled back on releasing PS5 exclusives for PC, fearing it could damage the console's brand.
