Video Game Chat

Valve has rolled out a beta version of a refreshed Steam store homepage, and it brings some significant changes that many users may appreciate. The update features wider images, infinite scrolling, and improved hover states which enhance the overall user experience. According to Valve, the new design aims to make it easier for gamers to discover new titles by showcasing more content and information. The store now displays higher resolution artwork, which is particularly noticeable for those using high-resolution monitors. Users on Steam Deck and in Big Picture mode will also benefit from these enhancements. One of the most striking changes is the layout's focus on width. You can now see additional game content on the homepage, including a rotating list of recommendations and a summary of user reviews. Hovering over a game activates a trailer, providing a more engaging way to preview titles. There are also new sections for your discovery queue, wishlist, and DLCs, making it easier to find discounted games or add-ons relevant to your library. Overall, while this update may not feel revolutionary, it certainly streamlines the browsing experience, making it more visually appealing and functional. If you wish to participate in the beta, you can find instructions on how to opt-in here.

I like the look of Alien Deathstorm but it still some way off release.

Sony has announced significant price increases for its PlayStation consoles, including the PS5, PS5 Digital Edition, PS5 Pro, and the PlayStation Portable, effective April 2, 2026. This has sparked a discussion about the implications for gamers and the gaming industry as a whole. New Pricing Structure The updated recommended retail prices are as follows: U.S. Pricing: PS5 – $649.99 PS5 Digital Edition – $599.99 PS5 Pro – $899.99 U.K. Pricing: PS5 – £569.99 PS5 Digital Edition – £519.99 PS5 Pro – £789.99 European Pricing: PS5 – €649.99 PS5 Digital Edition – €599.99 PS5 Pro – €899.99 Japanese Pricing: PS5 – ¥97,980 PS5 Digital Edition – ¥89,980 PS5 Pro – ¥137,980

The Xbox Spring Sale 2026 is just around the corner, bringing a wide selection of discounts. However, Game Pass members can already access it early, with over 900 items on sale until April 1, including some of the biggest and best Xbox titles available. Below, we've included just some of the highlights from this year's Spring Sale so far, and you can check over the full "Spring Sale Preview" list via the "Deals" section of the Microsoft Store on your Xbox console. Assassin's Creed Shadows: Premium Edition£57.74$60.4945% Battlefield 6£41.99$41.9940% Borderlands 4£48.99$48.9930% Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 - Cross-Gen Bundle£38.49$38.4945% Code Vein 2£41.24$52.4925% Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty DLC£16.24$19.4925% Dying Light: The Beast£44.99$44.9925% EA Sports FC 26£19.99$20.9970% Elden Ring Nightreign£26.24$29.9925% Gears of War: Reloaded£19.99$19.9950% Hell is Us - Deluxe Edition£32.49$39.9950% Hogwarts Legacy: Digital Deluxe Edition£11.24$11.9980% Little Nightmares III£24.49$27.9930% Mafia: The Old Country£35.99$39.9920% Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy£8.99$8.9985% NBA 2K26 Superstar Edition£26.99$29.9970% Red Dead Redemption 2£14.99$14.9975% RoboCop: Rogue City - Collection£26.99$29.9940% Skull and Bones Deluxe Edition£6.99$7.9980% Split Fiction£31.49$34.9930% Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League - Digital Deluxe Edition£9.99$9.9990% Tales of Graces f Remastered£17.49$19.9950% Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 - Cross-Gen Deluxe Bundle£19.99$19.9960% Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2£20.99$24.9960% https://www.xbox.com/en-GB/games/browse/DynamicChannel.GameDeals https://xbdeals.net/gb-store

In recent weeks, Microsoft has seen significant leadership transitions within its gaming division, particularly within Xbox. Following the retirement of Phil Spencer and the departure of Xbox president Sarah Bond, two more notable executives have left the company: Lori Wright, the corporate VP of partnerships, and Haiyan Zhang, the general manager of gaming AI. Lori Wright has been with Microsoft for a decade but has not specified her future plans, expressing a desire to explore new opportunities. Her departure raises questions about the impact of Sarah Bond's exit, as Wright was a direct report to her. In contrast, Haiyan Zhang has confirmed her move to Netflix, where she will focus on supporting their gaming initiatives. Zhang's candid remarks on social media highlight her outlook on career changes, dismissing speculation about her exit as part of a larger trend. Under the new leadership of Asha Sharma, who is taking over as Microsoft Gaming CEO, notable shifts are occurring. The marketing campaign "This is an Xbox," which was associated with Bond, has quietly been phased out. Meanwhile, the next-generation Xbox, codenamed Project Helix, is in development, with plans for alpha dev kits to be shipped next year. While details about its launch remain sparse, there are indications that a 2027 release is on the horizon, contingent on successful Windows integration. As these changes unfold, Microsoft continues to innovate, promising features like the Gaming Copilot for Xbox Series X/S and Xbox Mode for Windows 11. The gaming landscape is evolving rapidly at Microsoft, and it will be interesting to see how these leadership shifts impact the company's future direction.

In a significant move that aligns with European consumer rights regulations, Nintendo has announced that the upcoming Switch 2 will allow players in Europe to replace the console's battery themselves. This change is part of Nintendo's efforts to comply with the European Union's Right to Repair directive and the European Battery Regulation, which mandates that rechargeable batteries in consumer products must be user-replaceable by 2027. This development means that both the Switch consoles and the Joy-Con controllers will now feature designs that allow for safe battery replacement without needing to send them in for repairs. While the exact release date for this new model has not yet been disclosed, it signals a pivotal shift towards more sustainable product practices, particularly in regions with stringent consumer protection laws. Players have often expressed concerns over the Switch's battery life, with many hoping this update will address those issues. Additionally, rumours suggest that if consumer protection laws evolve, similar modifications might occur in the U.S. and Japan. Moreover, Nintendo recently introduced an update for both the Switch 2 and the original Switch, enhancing system performance and improving older game compatibility with new hardware features, such as the Handheld Mode Boost. Overall, this initiative is a welcomed step towards greater product longevity and consumer empowerment in the gaming industry. Key Points: Nintendo's Switch 2 will have a user-replaceable battery for European players. This change aligns with the EU's Right to Repair directive and Battery Regulation. Both Switch consoles and Joy-Con controllers will support safe battery replacement. Release date for the new model is yet to be confirmed. Potential for similar changes in the U.S. and Japan depending on consumer laws. Recent updates to Switch systems improve performance and game compatibility.

Ubisoft has reportedly shifted the focus of Red Storm Entertainment, the renowned studio behind the Ghost Recon series, to a tech support role, resulting in the layoff of 105 staff members. This change marks a drastic shift for a studio that has played a pivotal role in adapting Tom Clancy's works into video games since its founding in 1996. The studio, acquired by Ubisoft in 2000, has been instrumental in developing several key titles, including Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six and Ghost Recon. However, in recent years, the franchise's development has largely been handled by other Ubisoft studios, which left Red Storm primarily working on VR projects like Assassin's Creed Nexus VR and Werewolves Within. The layoffs come amidst a broader wave of cancellations and restructuring within Ubisoft, including the cancellation of projects like the Prince of Persia: Sands of Time Remake and the closure of several development offices. Ubisoft has cited a need to adapt to a "persistently more selective AAA market and an increasingly competitive shooter landscape" as the driving force behind these changes. The transition of Red Storm into a support studio raises concerns about the future of the Tom Clancy franchise and reflects the ongoing challenges facing the gaming industry. With the market continuously evolving, how will companies like Ubisoft navigate these turbulent waters?

Monster Hunter Stories 3 - Free Demo Trailer (Out Now) Capcom sent over a closer look at gameplay from Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, the third entry in the turn-based spinoff series that has you riding, nurturing and bonding with legendary monsters. Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection is coming to PC and consoles on March 13th. The 9th Dragon (TBD) A world premiere trailer revealed The 9th Dragon, a gorgeous voxel brawler where you topple the kingpins of Kowloon City. It's coming soon to PC and consoles. Remothered: Red Nun's Legacy (TBD 2026) The Future Games Show Spring Showcase let the curtains fall with the reveal of Remothered: Red Nun's Legacy. This is the third entry in Stormind Games' story-driven survival horror series, and t's coming to PC and consoles later this year.

Microsoft is set to enhance the gaming experience for Windows 11 users by introducing "Xbox mode," allowing any Windows 11 PC to function similarly to an Xbox console. This new feature will be rolled out in April 2026 and aims to provide a console-like interface that makes gaming with a controller more accessible. Key Insights: Xbox Mode Launch: This feature, previously known as the Xbox Full Screen Experience, will enable users to navigate their game libraries using a controller, making it ideal for setups where a PC is connected to a TV. Streamlined Experience: Although PC gamers are accustomed to their existing setups, Xbox mode offers a more straightforward way to access games, especially from the comfort of a couch. Testing and Improvements: Xbox mode has been tested through the Windows Insiders program since late 2025. However, early reviews suggest it might require further refinement for optimal performance. Future Integration: The upcoming "Project Helix" will further blur the lines between Xbox and PC gaming by allowing future Xbox consoles to run PC games. While Xbox mode is an exciting development for gamers, it remains to be seen how well it will perform once fully launched, especially given earlier criticisms regarding its execution on mobile devices.

As we anticipate the next generation of gaming consoles, recent leaks suggest a compelling hardware showdown between Microsoft's Project Helix and Sony's PlayStation 6. However, the conversation may be missing a critical context - these consoles could cater to distinct audiences rather than reignite the console wars of the past. From the leaked specifications, it's clear that both Microsoft and Sony are relying on AMD's latest hardware. Microsoft appears to have a performance edge with a more expansive memory interface and a robust neural processing unit (NPU). Yet, despite the hardware differences, history suggests that raw specs alone do not dictate real-world performance or user experience. Interestingly, the upcoming consoles are likely to integrate advanced machine learning (ML) technologies for enhanced graphics, which could blur the lines between their capabilities. Both platforms seem to be aiming for similar gaming experiences, albeit with different approaches to hardware utilisationprior. Sony is reportedly focused on delivering groundbreaking gaming experiences rather than engaging in direct competition with Microsoft. Meanwhile, Microsoft's strategy appears to embrace a broader gaming ecosystem, targeting not only console users but also the PC gaming community through its Project Helix initiative. This shift in focus suggests that the next generation may not be about who has the superior console but rather how each platform serves its intended audience. Microsoft seems to be positioning itself as a bridge from console to PC gaming, while Sony may itise creating unique gaming experiences. As we await further insights from GDC, it remains crucial to consider the implications of these developments for gamers. The future of console gaming may not hinge on hardware specs alone but on how well each company can deliver on their respective visions.

Ubisoft has recently unveiled the first concept art for the highly anticipated remake, Assassin's Creed: Black Flag Resynced, confirming what many fans have speculated for years. This announcement was made through a blog post detailing the future of the Assassin's Creed franchise, including updates on current titles and projects in development. The Black Flag remake is expected to launch later this year, though it is amid a broader strategy shift within Ubisoft as they wind down post-launch support for Assassin's Creed Shadows. Notably, the new entry, Codename Hexe, appears to be further down the line. The official title, Assassin's Creed: Black Flag Resynced, was first hinted at through a European ratings board listing back in December, following a series of internal leaks and fan speculation. This remake promises significant enhancements, elevating the visual and gameplay quality to match more recent installments in the series. While the remake aims to expand on the life of protagonist Edward Kenway, it reportedly omits the modern day gameplay segments that have been a staple of the franchise, a decision that has sparked mixed reactions among the community. The change raises questions about how Ubisoft will handle the narrative's conclusion, which previously interwove historical and modern-day elements. As of now, Ubisoft has indicated that this game is set for release before the end of their current financial year, although delays have pushed its launch into the next fiscal cycle. For those interested in the evolution of the beloved Assassin's Creed series, the Black Flag remake represents both a nostalgic return and a fresh direction. Ubisoft confirms Assassin's Creed: Black Flag Resynced remake. First concept art released, indicating a focus on visual and gameplay upgrades. Expected release later this year, following delays and corporate restructuring. Modern-day gameplay segments reportedly removed, causing fan debates. New content will explore Edward Kenway's story more deeply.

Ubisoft has recently provided an update on the Assassin's Creed franchise, signaling some intriguing developments. Under the guidance of new head of content Jean Guesdon, the company is steering the series in a "unique, darker" direction, particularly with the upcoming title, Codename Hexe. One of the standout features of Hexe will be its narrative focus, set against the backdrop of the Holy Roman Empire and its infamous witch trials. This shift suggests a deeper, more complex storytelling approach, diverging from the more formulaic narratives of previous entries. In addition to Hexe, Ubisoft is also making strides with its multiplayer project, Codename Invictus. Contrary to rumours, this project is not merely a casual party game; rather, it's being developed by veterans from the For Honor team and is progressing steadily with a "test and learn" methodology. While specifics remain under wraps, the emphasis appears to be on innovative gameplay rather than traditional multiplayer formats. Ubisoft has hinted at a revival of co-op gameplay within the franchise, having experimented with this feature in previous titles. The post-launch support for Assassin's Creed Shadows is winding down but promises a few surprises. Lastly, speculation regarding a remake of Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag continues to swirl, with Ubisoft remaining coy about its status. While fans eagerly await confirmation, the company's playful hints leave room for hope. Overall, Ubisoft is not only expanding the Assassin's Creed universe but also revitalising its approach to storytelling and multiplayer experiences.

Microsoft has filed a patent for an AI helper designed to assist players with their gaming experiences on Xbox. This comes on the heels of a similar patent from Sony for a PlayStation AI game assistant, reflecting a growing trend in the industry towards integrating AI technology into gaming. According to the details revealed by Tech4Games, Microsoft's patent, titled "state management for video game help sessions," aims to address the limitations of current assistance methods which the company describes as "rudimentary." The proposed AI helper could take over gameplay temporarily, allowing players to overcome in-game challenges more efficiently. This session would be cloud-based, enabling various forms of communication like text, chat, or video, and would allow players to regain control after receiving assistance. One of the unique aspects of this patent is the mention of "another game player," which could refer to either a human or a machine learning model. Microsoft envisions a generative AI capable of recognising in-game objects and delivering tailored assistance through multimedia outputs, including text, images, and even audio. The patent hints at a rating system for these AI helpers, potentially providing players with the ability to select help based on performance metrics across different game genres. This initiative aligns with Microsoft's previous introduction of the Xbox Gaming Copilot, an AI-driven tool designed to offer real-time advice in games. The implications of such technology, however, are not without controversy. As generative AI becomes increasingly prevalent, concerns about the ethical implications and the environmental impact of its resource demands continue to grow. The competitive landscape between Microsoft and Sony in the realm of AI gaming assistance raises essential questions about the future of gaming and player experience. With both companies exploring similar technologies, it appears that the integration of AI into gaming is set to become a defining feature of the next generation of consoles.

The recent Nintendo Indie World Showcase unveiled exciting new titles coming to Xbox Game Pass, including a surprise launch today! Here's a concise breakdown of the announcements: - Minishoot' Adventures: Available today, this game invites players into a beautifully crafted world, combining open exploration with engaging twin-stick shooter mechanics. Players will navigate through diverse environments and face off against dungeon bosses to rescue friends. - Mixtape: Set to release on May 7, 2026, this narrative-driven adventure follows three friends during their last night together, reliving memories through a mixtape soundtrack that captures the essence of their journey. - Denshattack!: Set for June 17, 2026, players will experience a vibrant, fast-paced adventure in a colourful dystopian Japan, utilising skills and speed to reclaim the train tracks from rival gangs and a corrupt megacorporation. Additionally, several other titles were showcased, including Deadzone: Rogue (March 17), Ratatan (July 16), and inKONBINI: One Store. Many Stories (April 30).

In the wake of a mixed reception for Skyrim's port, Fallout 4's arrival on Switch 2 has proven to be a pleasant surprise. Initially, the Nintendo Direct trailer painted a grim picture, but the end product is a faithful adaptation of the PS4/Xbox One game, complete with all six DLCs. One of the standout features is the Switch 2's ability to target multiple frame rates: 30fps, 40fps (for 120Hz displays), and even 60fps. This flexibility is available in both docked and handheld modes. However, it's essential to note that the quality settings, such as textures and shadows, remain static across these modes, with resolutions varying based on the chosen frame rate. In docked mode, the game targets 1440p, surpassing the PS4's 1080p. Conversely, the performance mode drops to around 720p in chaotic scenes. The handheld experience mirrors this, with the 30fps mode maxing out at 1080p, while the 60fps mode ranges from 504p to 900p, depending on the load. Despite some visual cutbacks, such as reduced draw distances and more noticeable pop-in, the overall graphical fidelity matches that of the Xbox Series S and PS5. However, performance fluctuations in the 60fps mode can lead to frame-rate drops during intense moments, making the 30fps mode a more stable choice. The 40fps mode emerges as a balanced alternative, offering improved image quality and consistency without the erratic performance of the 60fps mode. Portable play benefits from the Switch 2's variable refresh rate (VRR), making the 60fps option more feasible, though not without its own frame-rate issues. Ultimately, while the 60fps mode may push the system's limits, the introduction of the 40fps mode positions the Switch 2 as a commendable platform for Fallout 4. This port is a significant improvement over early expectations, and while some visual bugs remain, it stands as a recommendation for fans of the series.

Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen have just been released on the Nintendo Switch! This marks a significant return for the classic titles that originally debuted in the Kanto region. For those who might be unfamiliar, Pokémon Red and Green were the inaugural games that started the franchise, setting the stage for an expansive universe where players collect Gym Badges and complete the Pokédex by capturing all 151 Pokémon. The versions now available on the Switch are ports of the 2004 Game Boy Advance remakes, bringing nostalgia and charm to both new players and long-time fans alike. These titles are exclusively available as digital downloads, and there's more good news: Pokémon Home integration is on the way. This means you can transfer Pokémon from other titles, like Legends Z-A, directly into these games, enhancing your gameplay experience. If you're a Pokémon enthusiast, diving into these classics is highly recommended - not only for their nostalgic value but also for the engaging gameplay they offer. To get a glimpse of what's in store, check out the release trailer below: Overall, this release is a celebration of Pokémon's rich history and a great opportunity for fans to relive the adventure!

The anticipation for a new entry in the Wolfenstein series has been building, especially after the long wait since "Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus" was released in 2017. Recent reports indicate that development on "Wolfenstein 3" has commenced, with casting calls now underway, suggesting that fans might soon see the conclusion of this beloved trilogy. According to a report by Mp1st, the project, codenamed Valkyrie, is being led by notable figures from MachineGames, including performance director Tom Keegan and casting director Emily Schweber. One intriguing aspect of the casting is the role of a young girl named Sofiya, who could have ties to protagonist BJ Blazkowicz's backstory. Described as an orphan raised by the resistance, Sofiya is said to be a strong-willed survivor, aged between 8 and 11, and she will reportedly have a dog named Ralph as a companion throughout the campaign. This addition hints at a shift in gameplay dynamics, potentially introducing a child companion mechanic that could influence storytelling and player engagement. MachineGames director Jerk Gustafsson has previously expressed a desire to return to the Wolfenstein franchise to wrap up the trilogy. While the studio has been busy with other projects, including "Indiana Jones and the Great Circle," Gustafsson reassured fans that their intention to complete the series remains strong. He emphasised the importance of innovation while staying true to the studio's roots in narrative-driven first-person gameplay. Additionally, whispers of another project in the works—a multiplayer game akin to Ubisoft's "Rainbow Six Siege"—have surfaced, although details remain scarce. As we await more concrete information, it seems that the future of Wolfenstein is looking promising. The prospect of a new companion dynamic and a focus on storytelling could bring fresh experiences to both long-time fans and newcomers to the series.

The anticipation surrounding Assassin's Creed Hexe is palpable within Ubisoft, with reports indicating that "everyone at Ubisoft" is eager to contribute to this project. This enthusiasm stems from early impressions of the game, which is expected to mark a return to a more focused narrative approach, contrasting with the expansive RPG-style formats seen in recent titles like Valhalla. Despite some concerns following the departure of creative director Clint Hocking, Insider Gaming's Tom Henderson reassures fans that development is progressing well, and that Hexe is shaping up to be a standout title for the company. The game is rumored to be set in 16th century Germany during the witch trials, featuring a protagonist with supernatural abilities, which could introduce unique gameplay elements reminiscent of previous titles. Ubisoft has promised that Hexe will offer a distinct experience within the Assassin's Creed franchise, with expectations for a gameplay reveal still pending. However, the release is not expected until 2027, after the anticipated Black Flag remake and Invictus multiplayer spin-off. Key Themes: High enthusiasm for Hexe among Ubisoft staff. A return to a more linear narrative style. Set during the witch trials in 16th century Germany, with supernatural elements. Development is progressing despite changes in leadership. Expected release potentially in 2027.

The official Call of Duty X/Twitter account has refuted recent rumours regarding a standalone Zombies game, which were speculated to coincide with the launch of the next generation of Xbox consoles. This quick denial came just hours after the rumours surfaced, marking an unusual departure from the franchise's typical approach of remaining silent on such matters. Historically, Call of Duty has rarely directly addressed rumours about their upcoming titles, often opting for a more nebulous communication strategy. The recent assertion by the franchise stands in contrast to the claims made by known leaker TheGhostofHope, who has previously been accurate in their predictions. The outcome of this discourse remains uncertain, as fans weigh the credibility of Call of Duty's statement against the leaker's reputation. Additionally, this statement follows a broader trend within the franchise, as Call of Duty has recently acknowledged the mixed reception of Black Ops 7 and announced a shift away from annual back-to-back releases for their Modern Warfare and Black Ops titles. They emphasized a commitment to meaningful innovation rather than incremental changes, though specifics on future plans are still forthcoming.

Ubisoft has officially confirmed that two new Far Cry games are currently under development, as stated by CEO Yves Guillemot. This announcement comes during a recent interview with Variety, where the executive discussed the company's strategic restructuring aimed at enhancing its flagship franchises. Guillemot highlighted that Vantage Studios, a new subsidiary in collaboration with Tencent, is set to speed up the development of major titles, including multiple projects under the Assassin's Creed brand. Notably, the upcoming Far Cry games are generating significant anticipation among fans. One of the titles, codenamed Project Blackbird, will feature a non-linear storyline involving a kidnapping scenario that players must resolve within a 72-hour time limit. The second project, Project Maverick, is expected to be a standalone multiplayer experience set in the Alaskan wilderness, featuring mechanics such as permadeath and a contract system. On the Assassin's Creed front, while several games are confirmed, including Project Hexe and a remake of Black Flag, reports indicate that two titles were recently cancelled, including a virtual trading card game titled Assassin's Creed Singularity. This cancellation seems to be a part of Ubisoft's broader efforts to streamline its offerings. Additionally, Ubisoft is venturing into multimedia with an anthology series based on Far Cry, featuring Rob McElhenney from Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Despite the positive developments, it's worth noting that Ubisoft has faced challenges, including layoffs at some of its studios.