Video Game Industry
Ongoing coverage on Video Game Industry.
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Rumor: Nintendo Direct happening by mid-June
Rumors suggest a Nintendo Direct presentation is scheduled to air by mid-June, according to Giant Bomb's Jeff Grubb. While the exact format remains unconfirmed, it is assumed to be a full Nintendo Direct. This potential showcase could reveal more about the Nintendo Switch 2's upcoming titles for the remainder of the year, with Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave confirmed and a remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time rumored.
Tom Kane, voice actor whose work spanned Star Wars: KOTOR to The Powerpuff Girls' dad, dies aged 64
Prolific voice actor Tom Kane, known for his extensive work in video games and animation, has died at the age of 64. His career included iconic roles such as Jedi Master Vandar Tokare in Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic and Professor Utonium in The Powerpuff Girls. Kane passed away due to complications from a stroke.
Op Ed
This opinion piece discusses how 'cozy' video games have become a popular coping mechanism for stress and anxiety, akin to modern anti-depressants. The article explores the rise of these relaxing games and their impact on players' mental well-being within the broader video game industry.
Nintendo Switch 2 Leak Suggests Major Hardware Leap and 2026 Launch Lineup | Invision Game Community
New leaks suggest the Nintendo Switch 2 will feature a significant hardware upgrade over its predecessor, including improved processing power and faster load times, while maintaining its hybrid handheld-console design. Reports also indicate stronger third-party support and a potentially more diverse launch lineup than the original Switch, addressing a key limitation of the previous generation.
PC gamers, say goodbye to PlayStation exclusives as Sony confirms single-player games aren't coming to PC…
Sony Interactive Entertainment has confirmed that single-player PlayStation 5 exclusives will no longer be ported to PC, according to PlayStation boss Hermen Hulst. This marks a significant shift from the previous strategy of releasing console exclusives on PC a year or so after their initial launch. The company believes these PC ports risk damaging the PlayStation brand and sales of the PlayStation 5.
Games Inbox: When will GTA 6 pre-orders start?
Readers discuss the long wait for Grand Theft Auto 6, speculating on when pre-orders might begin and when the next trailer will drop. Other topics include potential Star Wars games, Nintendo's announcement strategies, and Sony's price increases for PlayStation Plus.
Forza Horizon 6 Proves Xbox Still Has One Franchise No One Can Touch
Forza Horizon 6 continues the franchise's streak of critical acclaim, earning high Metascores and praise for its visuals, gameplay, and open-world design in Japan. This consistent excellence stands in contrast to the struggles of other Xbox franchises like Halo and Gears of War. Playground Games' ability to deliver on fan expectations and maintain quality is highlighted as the key to Forza Horizon's enduring success.
Obituary: Veteran voice actor Tom Kane has passed away at 64
Veteran voice actor Tom Kane, known for his extensive work in video games and animation over three decades, has passed away at the age of 64. Kane had a prolific career, with notable roles in the Star Wars franchise, Grim Fandango, Final Fantasy XII, Wolfenstein, and Ghost of Tsushima. He retired from voice acting in 2021 following a stroke.
Sorry GTA 6, but I’m more excited about these 5 sequels (and a wildcard)
This article expresses excitement for several upcoming game sequels, arguing they hold more promise than Grand Theft Auto 6 due to potentially more manageable expectations. It highlights anticipated titles from FromSoftware, CD Projekt Red, Larian Studios, and Sandfall Interactive, praising their past work and potential for innovation. The author also touches on the industry's current trend of hype generation versus genuine surprise.
Those GTA 6 Preorder Rumors Appear To Be Another False Alarm
Rumors suggesting that preorders for Grand Theft Auto 6 would begin on May 18 have been debunked by sources within distribution companies. Despite fan speculation and a temporary boost to Take-Two Interactive's stock, no official preorder information has been released. Fans continue to await concrete details about the game's pricing and marketing.
GTA 6 Pre-Orders Go Live in Europe And the Price Is Surprisingly Low
Pre-orders for Grand Theft Auto VI have gone live in Europe, with listings on Italian retailer Showgame showing a price of €69.90 for both PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X versions. This price is significantly lower than many industry rumors predicted, which suggested a range of €90-€100. The listings also confirm a November 19, 2026 release date, and despite high demand, the unexpectedly low price has surprised fans and potentially eased concerns about the game's cost.
Those GTA 6 Preorder Rumors Appear To Be Another False Alarm
Rumors suggesting that preorders for Grand Theft Auto 6 would begin on May 18 have been debunked by sources within distribution companies. Despite fan speculation and the potential impact on Take-Two Interactive's stock, no official preorder information has been released. The article advises fans to wait for official announcements rather than relying on unconfirmed reports.
Mailbox: Tomodachi Teachings, 'Mainline' Mario, The Artist Formerly Known As Waluigi - Nintendo Life Letters
This month's Nintendo Life Mailbox features discussions on the inspirational nature of Tomodachi Life, the untapped potential of Waluigi for a dedicated game, and the classification of 'mainline' Mario titles. Readers also share their thoughts on Nintendo's GameShare feature and express desires for specific game remakes and ports.
Nintendo hints at even more Switch 1 games to expand ‘software business’
Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa indicated that the company plans to expand its software business by continuing to support the original Nintendo Switch alongside the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. This strategy aims to leverage the existing player base of the original console, with only 40% of Tomodachi Life players owning a Switch 2, suggesting a significant market remains for Switch 1 titles.
The finest Gabe Newell merch from his most devoted of fans
This article explores merchandise dedicated to Gabe Newell, the co-founder of Valve and creator of Steam. It highlights various fan-made items and discusses Newell's prominent online persona and his role in the gaming industry, particularly concerning Steam's Summer Sale.
Politicians accuse Rockstar of obstructing legal process, eBay rebuffs GameStop, and video game hardware screams now - Patch Notes #52
This week's Patch Notes covers several key industry events, including politicians accusing Rockstar Games of obstructing legal processes related to union-busting allegations for Grand Theft Auto 6. eBay rejected a takeover bid from GameStop, while Nintendo cited geopolitical and technological factors for its Switch 2 price increases. Additionally, Subnautica 2 achieved over a million sales in its first hour, and Valve's new Steam Controller features an audible alert when dropped.
Southeast Asian Games Showcase - Live At Summer Game Fest June 6th 2026 PT
The Southeast Asian Games Showcase will return in 2026, partnering with Summer Game Fest for a live event on June 6th. The showcase will feature exclusive announcements, updates, and world premieres of games developed in the Southeast Asian region. The event will be hosted by various industry personalities and professionals from the region and global diaspora.
Harvest Moon: Echoes of Teradea Is Coming to Switch 1 and 2 This September
Natsume has announced that Harvest Moon: Echoes of Teradea will be released on Nintendo Switch on September 24, 2026. This open-world farming simulation features upgraded visuals, new mechanics like climbing and animal companions, and will be available in two versions for the Nintendo Switch with different price points. The announcement has reignited discussions about the split between the Harvest Moon and Story of Seasons series.
GTA 6 Owner's Stock Price Surges After News That Preorders May Start Soon
Take-Two Interactive's stock price surged over 6% following a rumor that preorders for Grand Theft Auto 6 could begin on May 18. This news, stemming from a Best Buy leak, suggests investors are confident the game will meet its November 19 release date and not face further delays. The article also touches on the impact of AI in game development and its potential influence on investor sentiment.
New report defines the broad economic, cultural and social impact of the video games industry
A new report, 'Building a Unified Framework For UK Video Games Impacts,' by OKRE and Ukie, defines the broad economic, cultural, and social impact of the UK video games industry. The report highlights how games are crossing into sectors like healthcare and education, and shaping culture in fashion, music, film, and TV. It calls for greater research to better understand and maximize the real-world value generated by games, and to correct misplaced narratives around the industry.