AUGUST Inc. is developing a new version of the Macross franchise's rhythm game, Uta Macross, set to be released next spring on iOS, Android, and Steam platforms.
Best Buy is celebrating its 60th Anniversary with various offers, particularly for Android users. Notable game and app deals include titles like Last Day Survivors Zombie TDS, Isurvivor Premium, Siralim Ultimate, Rotaeno, Ninja Hero Cats Premium, Wreckfest – Demolition Racing, and Lovecraft’s Untold Stories. Today is the last chance for pre-order deals on the Pixel 11 series, with deliveries starting tomorrow. Amazon has reduced the price of the Olive Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, and Best Buy is offering discounts on laptops, including up to 0 off the 2026 Copilot+ PC and gaming models, as well as a 0 reduction on LG's latest OLED TV. Chromebook deals start at 9.
ShiftUP CEO Kim Hyung Tae has faced criticism for a promotional video for the game Stellar Blade: Blood Rain, which featured an AI-generated music composition that was deemed lacking in soul and coherence. The video showcased a surreal visual experience with the protagonist, Evie, in a skin-tight suit that raised concerns about the game's creative direction. Critics argue that the video undermines the game's narrative and visual identity, leading to disappointment among fans who anticipated a deeper narrative in the sequel. ShiftUP has a history of producing high-quality content, as seen in their previous title, Nikke, which featured a soundtrack by a seasoned composer. The backlash reflects broader concerns about the normalization of AI in creative processes within the gaming industry and its potential impact on emotional connections in games. The gaming community has expressed disappointment and reevaluated their interest in Blood Rain due to the promotional material.
In 2026, the gaming landscape is marked by industry challenges, including layoffs and anticipation for major releases like GTA 6. Notable game soundtracks include:
- Arcade – Screamer: Features a fusion of rock and electronic elements, particularly in the Arcade mode selection track.
- Eatin' Rats – Mewgenics: Has whimsical lyrics and catchy melodies about cats on a culinary adventure.
- Lone Wolf – Crimson Desert: Stands out with haunting choral elements.
- Club Arch DJ set – 007 First Light: Includes a virtual DJ set by Chase & Status, adding gritty British charm.
- Blood Moon – Life is Strange Reunion: Blends licensed music with original compositions, featuring haunting vocals and atmospheric instrumentals.
- Inner Child – Paralives: Evokes nostalgia with a twangy melody and whimsical undertones.
- In Death We've Just Begun – Marathon: Showcases Poppy's ethereal voice with Son Lux's melancholic composition.
- Cryogenic – In Falsus: Features a standout track by Camellia, combining dreamy vocals with an electronic beat.
- Under the Lights – People of Note: Early impressions suggest it enhances gameplay and motivates exploration.
The 2026 Amazon Prime Day sale features significant discounts on various Android games and apps, including The Last Game, Friend of a Slime: Survivors, Cytus II, Bloons TD 6, Paths & Danger, True Skate, Undergrave - Tactical Roguelike, Icewind Dale: Enhanced Edition, and Evoland 2. Discounts are also available on Google Pixel devices, with the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10a at reduced prices, as well as Samsung Galaxy S26 and S26 Ultra devices. Additionally, TCL NXTPAPER Android tablets are starting at a low price.
The Epic Games Store is offering Robobeat and Citizen Sleeper for free until June 25. Humble has introduced two bundles: the June 2unes bundle for rhythm game enthusiasts, starting at a low price, and a VR bundle featuring Among Us 3D: VR and Zero Caliber VR. Valve's Next Fest is showcasing gameplay snippets from upcoming indie titles until June 22, along with free events for Stellaris, Two Point Museum, Dead by Daylight, and MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries. The Steam Summer Sale is approaching, prompting publishers to offer discounts. GOG has launched its own summer sale with various highlights.
A modder named EVV1E has created a mod called Waylandcraft that integrates a Wayland compositor into Minecraft, allowing users to run applications as in-world windows. The mod enables players to engage with various applications, such as running the rhythm game Osu, streaming videos, and accessing a Linux terminal within the game. To install Waylandcraft, users need a Linux OS, Minecraft version 26.1.2, Fabric mod loader, xkbcommon version 1.11.0, and xkbcommon tools. For an enhanced experience, Prism Launcher and Sodium are recommended. The mod does not support multiplayer functionality but can be used on servers for personal activities without disrupting others.
A developer named EVVIE has integrated a Linux Wayland Compositor with Minecraft, enabling users to display Linux desktop windows within the game. This integration allows for an immersive experience similar to using a virtual reality headset. In a demonstration, EVVIE played the rhythm game Osu! while navigating the Minecraft interface. The project is available on GitHub under the GPL license and requires Minecraft version 26.1.2, the Fabric mod loader, xkbcommon library version 1.11.0, and xkbcommon tools. Additionally, recent updates for Minecraft have introduced a friends list feature for the Java version.
Dead as Disco is a rhythm-based adventure game developed by Brain Jar Games, featuring a narrative centered around Charlie Disco, a resurrected music icon seeking to reunite his former bandmates. The game employs vibrant neon visuals and has transitioned from Unity to Unreal Engine, enhancing its aesthetics. Players engage in combat against various enemies, utilizing both rhythmic and traditional combat mechanics, with a focus on strategic gameplay. The game includes modes such as selecting an Idol or the Infinite Disco, allowing for customization and skill upgrades. However, concerns exist regarding the reliance on licensed music, potential issues with enemy behavior, camera disruptions, and audio mixing. The game has received a score of 8/10 and is available on PC.
Fortnite has removed its Ballistic mode and introduced a new update featuring Laufey in the Icon series, allowing players to engage in a musical experience. Starting April 16, players can use the Mic Vocals feature to sing along in real time with a compatible microphone on PC and Console. The update also includes Pro Drums, enabling the use of a Rock Band 4 drum kit, while vocalists can move freely within the Jam Ring. Additionally, Act 2 of the Showdown event has begun, focusing on a challenge between characters Jules and Dasha. Furthermore, the Save The World mode is now free-to-play for all players.
