- Kids games designed for children between the ages of 3 and 12 are now available on Android Auto, allowing them to play on the car's infotainment display while parked.
Resident Evil Requiem is the latest installment in the Resident Evil franchise, focusing on horror rather than action. The game features dual protagonists, Grace, an inexperienced FBI analyst, and Leon Kennedy, a seasoned action hero, allowing players to switch between them for different gameplay experiences. Grace's segments are in first-person, enhancing horror elements, while Leon's sections are more action-oriented. The game alternates between the two characters, creating a dynamic narrative that heightens tension and player engagement. The reception has been positive, with the game balancing action and horror effectively. It is currently available for .39 / £49.19 at Fanatical, representing an 18% discount, and includes a free game or coupon with purchase.
A comprehensive study from Logitech G surveyed 18,000 individuals across 12 countries, revealing that nearly 8% of respondents globally would choose to pursue a career as a professional gamer if given the opportunity, surpassing traditional professions like politician (6%) and professional racer (5%). Among Generation Z, the desire to become a pro gamer rises to 15%. Two-thirds of Gen Z see esports as a legitimate professional career path, with 54% of all respondents considering esports a legitimate professional avenue. The global esports audience reached 611 million in 2024, projected to grow to 641 million by the end of 2025, with the industry valued at .1 billion and expected to reach .5 billion by 2030. Nearly half of Gen Z support adding esports to the Olympic Games, while 49% of Gen Z favor including esports in the main Olympics, compared to 21% of Baby Boomers. The 2024 League of Legends World Final attracted a peak global audience of 50 million, and over 62,000 spectators attended the 2025 Honor of Kings KPL Grand Finals in Beijing. Concerns about financial risk (42%), high competition levels (34%), and lack of support (31%) deter many from pursuing esports careers.
Last year, Embark and Bungie conducted playtests for their extraction shooters, with Bungie's Marathon being their first project outside the Destiny universe in over 15 years. Arc Raiders, developed by Embark, launched as the first mainstream title in the genre, while Marathon faced delays. The author initially felt indifferent towards Marathon but grew enthusiastic after playing for over four days. The game features a PvP experience with looting mechanics, weapon upgrades, and unique gun modifications. Critics compare Marathon to Call of Duty and Apex Legends, but the author finds its pacing more similar to Halo, emphasizing positioning and timing. The game includes movement shooter elements, allowing creative navigation techniques. Weapon designs are visually appealing and feature a variety of modifications. The game's progression system encourages experimentation with builds, and the vendor system aids in resource management. The upcoming full version will include a third map, Outpost, and additional content like the Cryo Archive.
RedOctane became a significant player in the gaming industry in the early 2000s, peaking in 2005 with the release of Guitar Hero. Activision acquired RedOctane in 2006, but by 2010, the company was closed due to declining interest in rhythm games. In 2025, Embracer Group revived the brand as RedOctane Games, announcing a new title called Stage Tour, which resembles Guitar Hero but introduces new features and game modes. Stage Tour will function as a "band game" with solo play options, and a closed alpha test is planned ahead of its holiday season release. RedOctane Games aims to create a sustainable experience rather than a series of sequels, and there is uncertainty about the demand for a new rhythm game experience. Details on pricing and song availability are still pending.
The Bazaar is an auto-battler game released in March of the previous year, which faced backlash due to its monetization strategies and microtransactions. The game features a whimsical galactic marketplace where players select heroes and acquire items to enhance their boards. Players engage in automatic battles, refining their strategies with various item synergies, such as assembling teams of aquatic and robotic creatures. The current meta favors weapon builds, and players enjoy the randomness of hero selection and item discovery. Developer Tempo has made significant improvements, addressing community concerns, refining the monetization model, and introducing ranked matchmaking to enhance the experience for both newcomers and seasoned players.
Developer Glass Bottom Games has announced its upcoming title, Verminsteel, an anthropomorphic hack-and-slash action game set to launch on PC via Steam in 2027. The game features players as a crow warrior fighting against occupying forces, utilizing various weapons and engaging in battles across the Fragarian countryside. Players can also play as other characters, rally allies, and upgrade weapons. The game emphasizes community themes and has been developed without the use of generative AI.
PC gamers can claim two free games, Boxes: Lost Fragments and My Night Job, from the Epic Games Store. Players need to download the Epic Games Store launcher to access these titles at no cost. Boxes: Lost Fragments is a puzzle game set to release on February 1, 2024, while My Night Job is an action-packed beat 'em up game that debuted in April 2016. Both games have received a “Very Positive” rating on Steam. The free offer is available until March 5, 2026.
Glass Bottom Games has announced their new project, Verminsteel, an anthropomorphic hack-and-slash action game featuring a crow protagonist. The game is set for release on PC via Steam in 2027. Players will use a variety of weapons, including swords and frying pans, to battle against enemy forces and rescue townsfolk. The game emphasizes community and collaboration, with players able to recruit allies and utilize their unique skills. Key features include a deep combat system, squad maneuvers, and weapon upgrades. Glass Bottom Games confirmed that no generative AI was used in the game's development. An announcement trailer is available for viewing.
Overwatch has seen a significant increase in player count, rising from around 37,000 concurrent players to a peak of 165,651. Blizzard is introducing a new hero each season and making ongoing map reworks and additions. The upcoming Overwatch Rush will transform the game into a top-down mobile format, distinguishing itself with a MOBA-like gameplay style. The reveal trailer shows fan-favorite characters, but details on game modes are limited. Blizzard has confirmed that Overwatch Rush is being developed by a separate team to ensure Team 4 remains focused on the PC and console version. There is currently no specific release date for Overwatch Rush, but playtesting is planned in select regions. Players can join a new Discord server for updates.
