Well, it's half about the hacking. And that may be too much...

The Pragmata demo dropped in mid-December, but I wasn’t near a PC that could play it until recently. Or, at the very least, I wasn’t near one that I could both play and record the experience. I’m back at my beefy home PC, though, so it’s time to weigh in.

Built on Capcom’s versatile RE Engine, Pragmata is a curious thing, a shooter that’s equally about hacking as it is firing a multitude of weapons. Announced way back in 2022, the title was delayed several times before remerging in 2025… and it was only then when Capcom gave us an idea of what it was actually about.

“Set in a vision of the near future, Pragmata transports players to the moon,” Capcom said last year. “After a chance meeting aboard a seemingly lifeless lunar research station, spacefarer Hugh and android Diana find themselves caught in the crosshairs of a hostile AI in control of the station. Stranded and surrounded by enemies, only together can they hope to survive.”

In terms of locomotion and shooting, you control Hugh. Diana, meanwhile, remains perched on Hugh’s back all throughout, hacking enemies to damage them; more importantly, she exposes opponents’ vulnerabilities to cause further harm. While it may sound like a lot to have to control all at once, things are surprisingly fluid and easy. Using a controller, your joysticks and triggers work as in any other shooter, while your face buttons move a hacking path up, down, left, or right. 

While Pragmata‘s sci-fi look and feel place it alongside the likes of Halo in terms of visuals, hacking itself was giving me Bioshock vibes. While you’re not placing water pipes in specific orders to make fluid travel in a specific direction, you’re nonetheless thinking like that, going from start to finish and always calculating the fastest, most efficient route to do so. Theoretically, you could kill enemies using only hacking, or only shooting… but it’s going to take you a hell of a longer than just combining the two types of actions.

In addition to the hacking enemies, you’re also going to be hacking doors and switches in one of two other mini-games. One will have you picking a direction with your d-pad, combining that with a corresponding face button press, and the other will have you using face buttons to rotate and activate circuits.

Pragmata‘s Sketchbook demo will take you twenty minutes at most, and ten minutes if you’re resourceful. That little chunk of gameplay experience proves enjoyable, fast, and frenzied, but I’m left wondering how sustainable the experience will be over longer play periods, and in general.

While time will ultimately answer my lingering questions, you don’t have to take my word on the demo itself — it’s still available on Windows PC via Steam right this second, and it planned for release on consoles before the main game itself. If you can’t play, you can check out a full run-through above.

Expect Pragmata from 24 April 2026 on Windows PC via Steam, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS5, and Switch 2.

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Same-sex relationships and the ability to play as a non-binary character will be available.

More than ten years after Nintendo and Tomodachi Life on 3DS termed same-sex relationships “a bug” within the game, the upcoming Tomodachi Life Living the Dream will not only allow for same-sex couplings, but non-binary and asexual characters.

Today’s earlier Living the Dream Direct detailed the functionality, in which a character creation screen not only allows for you to set the gender identity of your character, but the gender your character is attracted to. In the image above, a dating preferences screen allows a character to be attracted to male characters, female characters, non-binary characters, or any (or none) of those options.

Same-sex relationships were available for a brief period back in 2014 inside Tomodachi Life on the 3DS before Nintendo stomped them out, labelling them “a bug”. In the patch notes that followed, Nintendo described the functionality as, “human relations become strange” before suggesting the translation was better suited to read, “human relations become altered”.

Nonetheless, Nintendo did pledge to do better in the next instalment of the franchise, which just happens to be Living the Dream some twelve years later.

“We pledge that if we create a next installment in the Tomodachi series, we will strive to design a game-play experience from the ground up that is more inclusive, and better represents all players,” Nintendo said at the time.

Tomodachi Life Living the Dream heads to Nintendo Switch on 16 April 2026. Today’s full livestream can be viewed above.

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Grab 'em while you can!

Definitely Not Fried Chicken is the first in a host of Epic Games Store February 2026 freebies that become available to players week to week. As always, we’ll update this list all throughout the month.

Below, you’ll find a list all the free games that players can queue and download.

Last month: January 2026  <  This month: February 2026  >  Next month: March 2026

You’ll also find direct links to the games on offer via the Epic Games Store itself so you can redeem what you’d like straight away.

Available 6-13 February 2026

• Botany Manor

Available 30 January to 6 February 2026

• Definitely Not Fried Chicken

Be sure to check back in throughout the month to see which new titles are added as the month progresses.

Let us know which titles from the above you’re most excited about. See you back here when more freebies are announced!

You can grab the Epic Games Store launcher for PC right here.

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Blast. From. The. PAST... only on Nintendo Switch Online.

Original story [13 September 2025]: Virtual Boy games will be the latest to head to Nintendo Switch Online, the publisher today announced. First up are titles like Mario’s Tennis and Galactic Pinball… though you’ll need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription and new peripherals costing either $30 AUD or $140 AUD to play.

“Selected games from Nintendo’s stereoscopic 3D console, Virtual Boy, are coming to Nintendo Classics exclusively for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members,” Nintendo said in a press release. “To play, you’ll need Joy-Con or Joy-Con 2 controllers and the dedicated accessory based on the original Virtual Boy hardware – stereoscopic 3D included – when inserting the Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch.”

The more expensive of the peripherals is up now on the Nintendo Australia site for pre-purchase, and costs $139.95 AUD. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, a carboard peripheral will only set you back $29.95 AUD.

A Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack individual membership, also required to play, will set you back $59.95 AUD for a year.

The first Virtual Boy titles — Mario’s Tennis, Galactic Pinball, Teleroboxer, “and more as they release over time” will first be available through Nintendo Switch Online from 17 February 2026.

Update: We now have further information on which Virtual Boy titles will be available, and when. The first batch of titles coming on 17 February are as follows:

• Galactic Pinball
• Teleroboxer
• RED ALARM
• Virtual Boy Wario Land
• 3-D Tetris
• Golf
• The Mansion of Innsmouth

The releases above will be joined by a number of other releases that will become available over 2026. They’re as follows:

• Mario Clash
• Mario’s Tennis
• Jack Bros.
• Space Invaders Virtual Collection
• Virtual Bowling
• Vertical Force
• V-Tetris
• Zero Racers (previously unreleased)
• D-Hopper (previously unreleased)

What do you make of the roster above? Let us know in the comments area, above.

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Yes, please.

The Scott Pilgrim EX release date has been set for 3 March 2026, developer Tribute Games today announced alongside a brand spankin’ new trailer.

“After the members of the Sex Bob-omb are kidnapped, it’s up to this rag-tag bunch of exes (and a robot creation) to team up and take on a new threat in Scott Pilgrim EX,” the description of the new trailer reads, highlighting the fact that former enemies are now playable, and on your team: Matthew Patel and Robot-01.

The two villains join a larger cast of playable characters (and, really, mostly other villains) that include Scott Pilgrim, Ramona Flowers, Lucas Lee, and Roxie Richter.

And look, we know most of these characters aren’t villains in the traditional sense, but they certainly are Ramona’s evil exes. Hence, the EX in Scott Pilgrim EX.

Take a look at the trailer above and let us know what you think about it in the comments area, below.

Scott Pilgrim EX heads to Windows PC, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS4, PS5, and Switch from 3 March.

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Is it a good time to jump in?

Werewolf-like Killer Inn will enter early access from 13 February, Square Enix and Tactic Studios today announced.

“As Killer Inn enters the Early Access stage of its development, the development team will actively seek player input to further refine the game ahead of its official release,” Square Enix said in a press release, also noting special early access pricing.

Here in Australia, Killer Inn early access will set you back $14.95 AUD, which corresponds to €9.99 EUR and $9.99 USD.

Square Enix stated that, “the game price will increase upon its official release,” but didn’t detail what that full release price would be. It also confirmed that, “optional in-game cosmetic purchases will also be available.”

Killer Inn was first revealed back in June last year and heads to an early access release on Windows PC via Steam from 13 February. We’ll have more on the title as it becomes available.

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Try before you buy.

Those of us who enjoy demos are eating well at the moment: Koei Tecmo has today announced that a Fatal Frame 2 Remake demo will be available on all platforms from 5 March. Moreover, a special Silent Hill f collaboration was also detailed.

Fatal Frame 2 Remake demo

Koei Tecmo didn’t explain what to expect in the demo in a press release, but did further detail the remake itself.

“In Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake, twin sisters wander into an abandoned village infested with wraiths, and use the Camera Obscura, which has the ability to capture and contain the impossible, as their only weapon,” the press release stated. “This complete remake of the second title in the Project Zero (Fatal Frame) franchise will introduce new gameplay elements, including a brand-new ending featuring the song “Utsushie”, composed by Tsuki Amano, along with new side stories and new locations to explore.

“During their haunted journey, players will be able to use Broken Spirit Stones to delve into the past of various characters and discover new side stories, expanding the lore of Crimson Butterfly. Players will also explore new locations such as the Umbral Mound, an ominous burial site tightly bound with ropes and hidden within dense bamboo groves, and the candlelit hall of Eikado Temple, where twin statues tied together by sacred cords await them.”

Expect the demo from 5 March on Windows PC via Steam, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS5, and Switch 2

Fatal Frame 2 Remake, Silent Hill f collaboration

While Koei Tecmo announced a special collaboration with Konami’s Silent Hill f, details of that too were also pretty sparse.

“To help add to the already eerie gameplay, a newly-announced collaboration with Silent Hill f, the latest title of the renowned psychological horror franchise Silent Hill that has sold over 13 million copies worldwide, has been announced,” the publisher said. “Collaboration costumes will be added at a later date as free downloadable content. More details about this future update will be announced in the coming weeks.”

Fatal Frame 2 Crimson Butterfly Remake heads to Windows PC via Steam, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS5, and Switch 2 from 12 March 2026.

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And will join existing demos on all other available platforms.

A Star Trek Voyager Across the Unknown Switch 2 demo will head to the platform in early February, joining already existing demos on all other available platforms.

As we’ve covered, the Windows PC via Steam Across the Unknown demo arrived first, followed by a slightly tweaked Xbox and PlayStation demo afterward. I covered the big changes between those sets of demos over on TrekMovie.

Now, developer gamExcite and publisher Daedalic have announced that a Switch 2 demo isn’t far behind, coming in “early February” ahead of the game’s 19 February release date.

“The demo offers a first hands-on look at the core experience of the game, allowing players to guide Voyager through the Delta Quadrant while making decisions inspired by Captain Janeway’s leadership throughout the Star Trek: Voyager television series,” Daedalic said in a press release. “Managing the ship, its crew, and the challenges of a long journey far from home all play a central role.”

It’s unclear if the Switch 2 demo will mirror the Steam or the Xbox/PlayStation demo, but I’d be better on the latter myself. Time will tell!

Star Trek Voyager Across the Unknown heads to Windows PC via Steam, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS5, and Switch 2 on 19 February.

Star Trek Voyager Across the Unknown 19 February 2026 PC PS5 Switch 2 Xbox Series S & X   Buy on Windows PC: Steam Buy on Xbox: Microsoft Store Buy on PlayStation: PlayStation Store Buy on Switch: Nintendo eShop

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As always, we start with Essentials' monthly games.

The first batch of PlayStation Plus February 2026 additions and removals have been detailed by Sony in the form of Essential monthly games (as usual), and we’ve got the full list for you below.

Here’s what you’ll soon be able to access (or not) on PlayStation Plus tiers that include Essentials, Extra, Deluxe, and Premium. Those tiers are listed in order; higher tiers also can access any games in tiers under them.

We, of course, update this list as more titles are confirmed.

Last month: January 2026  <  This month: February 2026  >  Next month: March 2026

PlayStation Plus Essentials February 2026 monthly games

• Undisputed (PS5)
• Subnautica Below Zero (PS4, PS5)
• Ultros (PS4, PS5)
• Ace Combat 7 Skies Unknown (PS4)

The Essentials monthly games will be available to claim between 3 February 2026 and 2 March 2026.

PlayStation Plus Extra February 2026 additions

• TBD

PlayStation Plus Extra February 2026 removals

• TBD

PlayStation Plus Deluxe, Premium February 2026 additions

• TBD

PlayStation Plus Deluxe, Premium February 2026 removals

• TBD

We’ll continue to this list as more is known. Until that time, what do you make of PlayStation Plus in February 2026?

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A great value proposition just got a little worse.

A week after announcing a new strategy that included the cancellation of six games, the delay of seven more, and the restructuring of Ubisoft developers into five creative houses, the publisher has announced it will increase the price of its Just Dance+ subscription service come April.

“Over the past few months, the Just Dance team has looked at how Just Dance+ evolves, and how we can continue to support it in a way that feels both meaningful and sustainable for players,” reads an update from Ubisoft.

“Just Dance+ is built around music, and that comes with some important truths. Every song available in the service relies on licensing agreements that evolve over time, and these conditions directly affect what we can keep, renew, or add to the catalogue. Taking this into account, we’ve had to make a few adjustments to ensure the service can keep growing in the long run.”

Citing the addition of songs from Just Dance 2023 and Just Dance 2024 editions, the pricing of Just Dance+ itself will increase starting in April (though new songs will be added beginning 17 February). Pricing details from April are as follows:

• 1-month subscription: Changes from $5.95 AUD to $7.95 AUD (33% increase)
• 3-month subscription: Changes from $14.95 AUD to $18.95 AUD (26% increase)
• 12-month subscription: Changes from to $37.45 AUD to $44.95 AUD (20% increase)

New maps and camera controller support for 2023 and 2024 songs will also head to the subscription service in time.

While I loved the latest Just Dance — its 2026 Edition, to be specific — I wasn’t crazy about the pricing of Just Dance+ even then, saying it made more sense to buy special editions of the game whenever the urge to boogie caught your fancy. Now, that advice is offered with even greater strength.

As per Ubisoft’s latest update, the Just Dance team will sit within what the publisher has called “Creative House 5”. That house will be responsible for “casual and family-friendly games” including Just Dance, Idle Miner Tycoon, Ketchapp, Hungry Shark, Invincible: Guarding the Globe, and Uno.

What do you make of the price change? Sound off in the comments area, below.

Just Dance+ is available on Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS5, and Switch. The latest base game, Just Dance 2026, is also available on those same platforms.

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Roblox is in the clear, according to its own investigation.

Roblox is attempting to distance itself from reports that a missing teen has travelled to New York City in order to meet a friend from within the game, saying its own internal investigation has shown “no attempts” by anyone to influence the child in-game.

Speaking with Long Island’s News 12, Eva Medlin, the mother of missing teen Thomas Medlin, has said she believes her son met someone through Roblox and travelled from Long Island to New York in order to meet that contact. Thomas was last seen on 9 January, boarding a train to New York’s Grand Central Terminal; Eva said her son’s behaviour was out of character.

A press release from the Suffolk County Police Department adds that Thomas reportedly arrived at Grand Central Terminal at approximately 5.30 pm on 9 January, and doesn’t make mention of Roblox.

“When we learned that one of our users was missing, we followed our standard process and immediately began an investigation, searched for any previous law enforcement inquiries, and reached out to law enforcement to offer any support in their investigation,” Roblox said in direct response to the report on its Newsroom account on Twitter.

“After a thorough review, here is what we have found: No attempts to direct him to an off-platform communication method. No sharing of off-platform contact information, including usernames, phone numbers or other communication methods. All chat content was consistent with typical in-game discussions. No indication that he used voice chat,” the statement continues.

Thomas remains missing at the time of writing. The Suffolk County Police Department has released a photo of Medlin to aid in finding him, and are asking anyone with information to contact them on 1-631-854-8452.

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Not long now!

Two new Star Trek Voyager: Across the Unknown deep dive trailers focus on combat and exploration ahead of the game’s mid-February launch.

The first deep dive shows off what’s arguably one of Across the Unknown‘s less exciting features: ship-to-ship combat.

“When designing the space combat, we looked at both how it works in the TV show as well as how other Star Trek games handled pivotal part[s],” developer gamExcite said. “We took inspiration from Starfleet Command, Bridge Commander, and Star Trek Legacy, but also had a central power fantasy in mind that you are the captain.”

“You do not fly the ship; you have Tom Paris for [that],” gamExcite continued. “Nor do you manually aim and fire the phases. This is Tuvok’s job. Instead, you give commands to your crew which enemies and subsystems to target.”

While I appreciate the sentiment, my experience with Across the Unknown‘s demos mean that combat is pretty bland. That said, the exploration deep dive is far more up my alley as a longtime Trek fan.

“Upgrading your main deflector will reduce the hull damage taken by asteroids. Various sensor upgrades can allow us to penetrate dense nebulas or even provide us with the ability to scan faraway systems,” said gamExcite of not only exploration, but your means of actually doing so. “Points of interest come in many different forms, such as planets, space stations, or mysterious ships that don’t answer our hails. They can host main or side quests, repair or trading stations, or random encounters that require a quick command decision.”

In the video, gamExcite also stressed that, “while you may choose to replay sectors to explore the different narrative paths or outcomes, the game structure is built around steady progress rather than constant failure and restart. We want you to feel the weight of your decisions and make do with your current situation, all while depicting the harsh environment of the Delta Quadrant.”

There’s not long to wait before you can fight and explore yourself — Star Trek Voyager: Across the Unknown is planned for an 18 February release date on Windows PC via Steam, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS5, and Switch 2.

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Emmert promises to "grow" titles like Star Trek Online and Neverwinter Online.

MMO veteran and former Cryptic Studios CEO, Jack Emmert, has returned to the very role he left back in 2016, now promising to “grow” titles like Star Trek Online thanks to new ownership of both Cryptic Studios and publisher Arc Games.

Both Cryptic and Arc were acquired from Embracer Group by Project Golden Arc back in November of last year.

Emmert co-founded Cryptic Studios back in 2000, working on titles including City of Heroes, City of Villains, Champions Online, Neverwinter, and Star Trek Online. He was appointed as studio COO in 2010, then CEO in 2011. He finally departed Cryptic in 2016, moving over to Daybreak Games to work on further MMOs including DC Universe Online, Lord of the Rings Online, and Dungeons & Dragons Online.

“These titles have collectively reached more than 32.2 million players worldwide, generating over 1.47 billion hours of total playtime,” reads a press release from Arc Games. “Star Trek Online alone has drawn over 7.7 million players since its launch — a testament to the long‑lasting appeal Cryptic Studios’ games have maintained within one of gaming’s most competitive genres.”

“Arc has given us the support needed in order not just to maintain our games, but also grow them,” Emmert said in an introductory video, which can be viewed above. “In fact, our teams today are bigger than when I left. If you’re a current player, thank you and I’ll see you in game sometime. And if you’ve once played one of our games and are curious about what’s new, come on back. Let’s relearn the magic together.”

“Few people in this industry have had the kind of impact that Jack has had, especially on the MMOs we brought into the world together – games that still resonate with fans today,” added Yoon Im, CEO of Arc Games. “His return marks an important and major chapter not just for Cryptic and for all of us at Arc Games, but for the future of what’s possible in online gaming. We’re thrilled to have him back and excited to partner with him as he leads the Cryptic into its next era.”

As part of his new (old) role, Emmert will offer the chance for players to connect with him in three major events next week, as follows:

• A live Q&A livestream on Cryptic Studios’ Twitch channel from 6.00 am AEDT on 4 February (check your own timezone here)
• A Reddit AMA on the Neverwinter subreddit from 4.00 am AEDT Time on 5 February (check your own timezone here)
• A final Reddit AMA on the Star Trek Online subreddit from 6.00 am AEDT on 5 February (check your own timezone here)

Star Trek Online is free-to-play and currently available on Windows PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store, Xbox One, and PS4.

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And it's very reasonably priced, too!

Reigns The Witcher is a collaboration between Reigns Three Kingdoms‘ Nerial and CD Projekt Red’s The Witcher, and it’s coming on 25 February.

“In this new twist on the White Wolf’s legend, players step into the muddy boots of famed monster slayer Geralt of Rivia. But rather than chronicling his journey in grizzled grunts and sword swings, Reigns: The Witcher spins the tale through the gilded tongue of Geralt’s oldest friend: Dandelion the bard. Every choice is a verse, every misstep a stanza, and every bath an opportunity for a ballad,” Nerial and publisher Devolver Digital said in a press release.

In case you’re not familiar with Reigns, this new iteration works in much the same way. Players will be confronted with swiping left or right with any given situation, impacting outcomes and dictating what comes next. An incorrect swipe can sometimes mean the difference between life and death.

“Players will weave Geralt’s legend through branching stories, bardic embellishments, and thousands of narrative combinations, with Dandelion himself conducting the chorus of fate,” the press release continued. “Between verses, the White Wolf still gets plenty of work done: combat minigames pit Geralt against ghouls, rotfiends, and other foes both real and curiously improvised.”

If you like what you see from the trailer, above, you’ll be able to grab Reigns The Witcher on Windows PC via Steam, iOS, and Android devices for $8.99 AUD.

Reigns The Witcher heads to Windows PC via Steam, iOS, and Android devices from 25 February.

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Mark those calendars.

A twenty-minute Tomodachi Life Living the Dream Direct will take place on 30 January here in Australia, Nintendo has today advised.

Apart from its length, date, and time — which is 1.00 am AEDT by the way (or check your timezone here), we don’t know a single other thing about the livestream. If we had to take a guess, though, we’d say the presentation will include a release date for the upcoming sim, which is currently expected sometime in 2026. We’ll perhaps also get confirmation of a Switch 2-specific release, though all of this is just conjecture at this point.

You can expect the livestream on YouTube; we’ll embed the direct here when available.

Tomodachi Life Living the Dream was announced back in March 2025, more than ten years since the release of Tomodachi Life over on the 3DS.

We’ll have more on Tomodachi Life Living the Dream when available.

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It takes some time to get into things... and it's there that you'll love it or hate it.

Code Vein 2 is the latest from Bandai Namco, offering up a stylised anime-action RPG experience that’s also attempting to distance itself from the original Code Vein. I’ve not played the 2019 original, so that suits me just fine.

The premise of Code Vein 2 is relatively simple; you’re a vampire but not (otherwise known as a Revenant) who resides in a world that’s been corrupted. Those who aren’t lucky enough to keep their wits about them and fight whatever’s plaguing the post-apocalyptic world are turned into Horrors, adding to the amassing army that stands in your way. Paired with the first of many partners, you’re tasked to travel back in time and rescue a number of heroes who will help restore the world to its former glory.

Walking in blind, it didn’t take me long to realise that Code Vein 2 resides at the intersection between anime and Soulslike, doing its best to appease fans of both genres. I’m firmly in the latter camp, and kicked off the sequel by being fairly disinterested, despite the anime half actually providing sensible narrative in a genre where you’re mostly left to figure out lore through fleeting messages or puzzles. As for the remainder of the anime influence? A majority of its characters look pre-pubescent, most are scantily clad, and two females in particular sport breasts larger than their heads. Dialogue is schlocky and, at times, self-important. I’m not trying to yuck an anime fan’s yum, but none of that was clicking for me.

After a couple of hours, though, I’d warmed up to what the Soulslike side was offering. Code Vein 2 has surprisingly deep combat systems — arguably too deep in some cases — with a variety of weapons to choose from, all bolstered by forma, blood codes, jails, and partners. Blood codes are like classes, obtained through progression and increased through usage and proficiency; they provide your base stats. Weapons come in a variety of flavours too; I favoured a two-handed sword, modified by blood, that felt like a nice balance between speed and damage. Forma plug into your weapons, offering special attacks or buffs that can aid in battle.

For forma to be used, though, you’ll need to harvest blood (you are a vampire, after all) — otherwise known as Ichor — and spend it to activate your abilities. The jail comes into play here, helping to harvest Ichor in the middle of combat, or at times where you’ve been able to stagger your opponent. Finally, your partner will act as a second hero, dealing damage to opponents alongside you; they also will revive you if you’re felled, though that happening a second time during a cooldown will mean you’re truly dead.

Battles, therefore, are sometimes an intricate dance as you’re on your last leg, frantically dodging your opponent’s attacks while waiting for your partner to respawn. If you’re wanting to go it alone, you can for the most part — absorbing your partner back into you will boost your attack damage, though you still get the two-attempt life as I described earlier.

It’s admittedly fun to mix and match all of the above to find a combat style that suits you as you explore the past and present of the world. It becomes less fun, however, given the way in which the world is laid out.

My biggest problems with Code Vein 2 come from level and encounter design. Most quests need to specifically tell you how to get from one place to another as it’s decidedly not obvious. Dungeons are sprawling, but consist of identical, narrow corridor after corridor.  They’re such small, tight spaces, and those tends to cause a bunch of issues relating to your camera that certainly don’t help when playing a Soulslike. Despite a lack of activity on-screen, I repeatedly encountered massive drops in framerate on both my base PS5 and my PS5 Pro. These framerate drops appear to have slowed down after a version 1.0.2.0 update, but they’re not fully gone; nor can I even confirm the update addressed that issue as I’ve not been able to sight patch notes.

Level design also impacts a number of boss battles, which are mixed bags. I don’t feel like I’m under- or over-levelled for anything that I’m fighting, but a majority of boss battles seem to take an extremely long amount of time, or conversely no time at all. While this isn’t an issue in itself, it is when you factor in that spaces that are too small to effectively work within; seemingly a staple in Code Vein 2. You’ll frequently become stuck on terrain as you’re dodging large area of effect (AoE) attacks, or having to deal with aforementioned camera issues.

What I’ve described above is treated as a feature and not a bug; these issues compiling upon themselves mean you’ll frequently miss otherwise obvious telegraphed attacks. You’ll lose your first of two lives often in these scenarios; as you wait for your partner to pour themselves back into you for your second wind, you’ll watch helplessly as a boss will line up multiple AoE attacks on your vulnerable body. Without being able to dodge, you’ll be hammered upon and will die. Scenarios like this will generally happen right near the end of a boss’ life bar, and that means you’re doing the whole, long-ass battle over again; it’s an unfair waste of your time.

I’ve relied upon a parry through most of my total playtime, though several boss encounters are just so poorly designed that I can’t even try to pull a parry off. In one, the boss was so large, and within a battle area that could barely contain him, that I couldn’t see my character, nor the boss in full. As a result, he wails upon me as I do my best to try and imagine where I’ll be dodging to in the space. In other encounters, a successful parry doesn’t mean that you’ll stagger your opponent, but rather just cancel each other’s actions — you both harmlessly just clip through one another.

Moving past that particular boss, I realised I was now over-levelled as I was taking breaks from my frustration by chasing down side-quests. Here, complex combat systems meant nothing and an overpowered sword plus one forma meant almost instant success. I fought three different bosses that were identical in quick succession, then one boss that had three blades in one room, then more blades in a second room. I later encountered another boss copy that was a damage sponge, taking everything I threw at it without flinching; its previous copy was felled in literal seconds. It wasn’t fun to destroy carbon-copy bosses, and it certainly wasn’t fun to hardly make a dent in another.

This next complaint is admittedly minor, but I’m going to list it nonetheless. I favoured a bow and arrow as a secondary weapon, using it to aggro a specific enemy in a group of far-away ones (just like I would in Dark Souls). Nine times out of ten, my partner character would decide to walk directly in front of me as I was aiming an firing, throwing off my shot. This behaviour was easily replicated, and continually frustrating.

Whereas Code Vein 2 pulled me in with time, it has also pushed me away with even more. Those who are at different points in the Venn diagram that is anime plus Souls may find themselves appreciating more on offer than I do, but ultimately, I’m bounce between being entertained and being too frustrated and disinterested to want to continue on. While fun from moment to moment, Code Vein 2 has a cookie-cutter plot, matching dialogue, and combat that isn’t polished to the level it needs to be. Its world is pleasurable enough, though poorly designed boss and dungeon encounters will bottleneck your overall experience.

Code Vein 2 heads to Windows PC via Steam, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, and PS5 from 30 January 2026.

Code Vein 2 30 January 2026 PC PS5 Xbox Series S & X   Buy on Windows PC: Steam Buy on Xbox: Microsoft Store, Amazon Buy on PlayStation: PlayStation Store, Amazon

The post Code Vein 2 Review: Stick with it? appeared first on Stevivor.

"Ubisoft International has initiated discussions regarding a potential Rupture Conventionnelle Collective."

Following last week’s announcement of a new strategy that also included the cancellation of six games and delays to seven more, Ubisoft is now looking to cut 200 international, contracted employees from its Paris headquarters.

“In line with last week’s announcements on its new operating model and the acceleration of cost-reduction initiatives, Ubisoft International has initiated discussions regarding a potential Rupture Conventionnelle Collective, a collective, voluntary mutual termination agreement that could involve up to 200 positions at its headquarters in France,” an Ubisoft spokesperson told IGN.

“At this stage, this remains a proposal, and no decision will be final until a collective agreement is reached with employee representatives and validated by French authorities,” the representative continued, also confirming that, “the proposal applies exclusively to Ubisoft International employees under French contracts and has no impact on other French entities or Ubisoft teams worldwide.”

The Rupture Conventionnelle Collective is a French system in which a company can terminate employment contacts on a voluntary basis without needing to resort to layoffs. It is bound by a set number of “planned departures and associated job cuts,” according to a translated page from France’s Ministry of Labor and Solidarity (thanks, PC Gamer).

PC Gamer also points out that Ubisoft attempted something similar with Ubisoft Massive back in October of last year. In that instance, the publisher proposed a “voluntary career transition program” that was not taken up by employees. Instead, Ubisoft then laid off approximately 55 employees at Massive and Ubisoft Stockholm earlier this month.

The post Following last week’s cancellations and delays, Ubisoft looks to cut 200 jobs from its Paris HQ appeared first on Stevivor.

On both Steam and Xbox.

A Vampire Crawlers demo will be available on both Steam and Xbox from 23 February, developer Poncle today confirmed.

Pages for the demo aren’t live as yet, but you’ll soon be able to learn more over on Vampire Crawlers‘ Steam page.

Alongside news of the demo also came the first episode in a series Poncle is calling, “Let’s Explore Vampire Crawlers“. The episode is below and explores the game’s turn-based combat and card customisation.

“In Vampire Crawlers, you don’t have to pause for animations to complete before triggering your next move,” Poncle said of its turn-based combat. “The game intelligently stacks and executes your ability inputs with precision, allowing you to play at your own chaotic pace. It turns tactical combat into a fast, engaging, and visually rewarding experience.”

Expect Vampire Crawlers sometime in 2026 on Windows PC via Steam, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS5, Switch, iOS, and Android devices.

The post Vampire Crawlers demo coming in February appeared first on Stevivor.

Check it out!

Not to be outdone by the likes of Steam, Nintendo, or Sony, GOG is now offering a 2025 Year in Review for its customers.

The GOG Year in Review, found here, will show you how long you’ve been with the service, how many games you added to your library this year, your games played, hours played, and achievements unlocked, and much more. You’ll also be able to download a summary image to use wherever you’d like.

Unsurprisingly, my most played games were the Resident Evil trilogy, which GOG has restored as part of its GOG Preservation Program. Close behind that was Star Trek Voyager Elite Force, as I wrote a little love letter to the shooter over on TrekMovie.

What were your GOG highlights from 2025? Sound off in the comments area, below.

The post Your very own GOG Year in Review lets you revisit 2025 appeared first on Stevivor.

And Fable's also confirmed for PS5.

At today’s Xbox Developer Direct, both Fable and Beast of Reincarnation got release date windows set later into 2026.

Game Freak’s Beast of Reincarnation is expected first, in the northern hemisphere’s summer 2026 (roughly June or July 2026 for us Aussies). Fable will follow after that, sometime in the northern hemisphere’s autumn (or September, October 2026 for us). Both titles are also planned for release on PS5 alongside PC and Xbox Series consoles.

“In post-apocalyptic Japan, a land ruined by corruption and crawling with monstrous beasts, humanity’s last hope may rest with Emma—an outcast cursed as a Blighted One—and Koo, her loyal canine companion. Survive a journey across an ominous, ever-changing world where dangerous forests can erupt in the wasteland,” reads a description of Beast of Reincarnation. “As Emma and Koo push deeper into the unknown, their bond strengthens—and with it, strange powers bloom. Explore what it means to be human in Beast of Reincarnation, an expansive one-person, one-dog action RPG built around demanding, technical combat. What awaits at journey’s end?”

“The Fable team at Playground Games took us to the fairytale world of Albion, for the first in-depth look at the studio’s brand new open world action-RPG – and revealed that the game will be coming to players in Autumn 2026,” Microsoft said of Fable‘s showing earlier today.

“Developed by a dedicated team at the UK-based studio, Fable is set to deliver everything players love about the original trilogy – choice and consequence, dry British wit and playful moral chaos – all reimagined for a new generation of players in an unmistakably Playground way.”

We also learned today that Forza Horizon 6 will head to PC and Xbox Series consoles from 19 May; a PS5 release will follow later.

The post Fable, Beast of Reincarnation get release date windows set for later this year appeared first on Stevivor.

Forza Horizon 5 may have accidentally outed the surprise...

Update: Surprise! The rumours — in this case, the promotional material released early, and in-game — were true! The Forza Horizon 6 release date is indeed 19 May.

The news came alongside a new teaser trailer, which is below.

Original story [15 January 2026]: The Forza Horizon 6 release date looks to be 19 May, outed by an in-game prompt promoting the sequel as seen inside Forza Horizon 5. Oops.

The prompt was screenshotted by Twitter user @XBOXF10 (hence the watermark on the image below). In it, the prompt details that those who either pre-order the Forza Horizon 6 Premium Edition (or upgrade their Xbox Game Pass version to Premium) will receive four days of early access to the title starting 15 May.

After a bit of math, that means the regular ol’ edition of the game will be available from 19 May.

Pre-orders, via the prompt, will also receive a “pre-tuned and exclusive” Ferrari J50.

Forza Horizon 6 will take place in Japan, and was first announced back in September 2025. The title will be an Xbox console exclusive for a limited period of time before heading over to PS5.

It should be noted that the prompt no longer appears in Forza Horizon 5 and could be fabricated; we’ll likely find out either way as Microsoft is planning to showcase the upcoming sequel on 23 January here in Australia.

If the prompt is true, expect Forza Horizon 6 from 19 May on Windows PC via Steam and the Microsoft Store, alongside Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X. A PS5 release will follow later.

The post Forza Horizon 6 release date set for 19 May appeared first on Stevivor.

A slow start (that picks up quickly!).

It’s almost 2026, can you believe it? Video game releases are taking a bit of a break as the year ramps up, so this post will detail all the new titles you can expect over both January 2026 and February 2026.

Below, you’ll find all that you can expect on Windows PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series S & X, PS4, PS5, Switch, and Switch 2.

Last months: November and December 2025   <  These months: January and February 2026  >  Next month: March 2026

Notable releases

Animal Crossing New Horizons Switch 2 Edition 15 January 2026 Switch 2   Buy on Switch 2: Nintendo eShop, Amazon

Highguard 27 January 2026 PC PS5 Xbox Series S & X   Buy on Windows PC: Steam Buy on Xbox: Microsoft Store Buy on PlayStation: PlayStation Store

Code Vein 2 30 January 2026 PC PS5 Xbox Series S & X   Buy on Windows PC: Steam Buy on Xbox: Microsoft Store, Amazon Buy on PlayStation: PlayStation Store, Amazon

Nioh 3 5 February 2026 PC PS5   Buy on Windows PC: Steam Buy on PlayStation: PlayStation Store, Amazon

Mario Tennis Fever 12 February 2026 Switch 2   Buy on Switch 2: Nintendo eShop, Amazon

Reanimal 13 February 2026 PC PS5 Switch 2 Xbox Series S & X   Buy on Windows PC: Steam Buy on Xbox: Microsoft Store, Amazon Buy on PlayStation: PlayStation Store, Amazon Buy on Switch: Nintendo eShop, Amazon

Star Trek Voyager Across the Unknown 19 February 2026 PC PS5 Switch 2 Xbox Series S & X   Buy on Windows PC: Steam Buy on Xbox: Microsoft Store Buy on PlayStation: PlayStation Store Buy on Switch: Nintendo eShop

Resident Evil Requiem 27 February 2026 PC PS5 Switch 2 Xbox Series S & X   Buy on Windows PC: Steam Buy on Xbox: Microsoft Store, Amazon Buy on PlayStation: PlayStation Store, Amazon Buy on Switch: Nintendo eShop, Amazon

Which titles are you most looking forward to?

These releases are in addition a host of platform specific updates for the rest of 2025, including:

• PlayStation Plus additions and removals: January 2026, February 2026
• Xbox Game Pass additions and removals: January 2026, February 2026
• Epic Games Store freebies on PC: January 2026, February 2026
• Prime Gaming (Amazon Luna) benefits on all platforms: January 2026, February 2026
• Apple Arcade offerings on iOS: January 2026, February 2026

All links above this paragraph will be updated when available.

We know we always miss one or two titles, so sound off on what’s been left out, and make us feel stupid! No, seriously — we’ll fix it up if you tell us!

The post January 2026 and February 2026 video game release dates appeared first on Stevivor.

Get 'em while they're hot!

Civalry 2 is the first in a bunch of Epic Games Store January 2026 freebies that start a brand new year. As always, we’ll update this list all throughout the month.

Below, you’ll find a list all the free games that players can queue and download.

Last month: December 2025  >  This month: January 2026  >  Next month: February 2026

You’ll also find direct links to the games on offer via the Epic Games Store itself so you can redeem what you’d like straight away.

Available 30 January to 6 February 2026

• Definitely Not Fried Chicken

Available 23-30 January 2026

• Rustler – Grand Theft Horse

Available 16-23 January 2026

• Styx Master of Shadows
• Styx Shards of Darkness

Available 9-16 January 2026

• Bloons TD 6

Available 2-9 January 2026

• Total War Three Kingdoms
• Wildgate

Available 31 December to 2 January 2026

• Chivalry 2

Be sure to check back in throughout the month to see which new titles are added as the month progresses.

Let us know which titles from the above you’re most excited about. See you back here when more freebies are announced!

You can grab the Epic Games Store launcher for PC right here.

The post Epic Games Store January 2026 freebies appeared first on Stevivor.

Nadella calls AI a "cognitive amplifier".

Speaking at the World Economic Forum, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella lamented that us plebs aren’t adopting AI fast enough, in turn not providing the mega-corp with the permission it needs to continue forcing AI down our throats.

At the forum, Nadella warned that AI will lose the support of the public unless it is used to “do something useful that changes the outcomes of people and communities and countries and industries.”

“We will quickly lose even the social permission to take something like energy, which is a scarce resource, and use it to generate these tokens, if these tokens are not improving health outcomes, education outcomes, public sector efficiency, private sector competitiveness, across all sectors, small and large, right?” said Nadella (with thanks to PC Gamer). “And that, to me, is ultimately the goal.”

To gain said permission, Nadella said AI companies and advocates need to build an “ubiquitous grid of energy and tokens” — which itself is already driving up the prices of RAM, and SSD storage and perhaps even driving NVidia to resurrect the far more cost-effective GeForce RTX 3060. Beyond that, the CEO said all of us need to start using it.

“The demand side of this is a little bit like, every firm has to start by using it,” Nadella said, adding that AI is a “cognitive amplifier” that gives its users “access to infinite minds”. How the Microsoft 365 Copilot app (formerly Office) achieves that, mind you, is beyond me.

Come back to me when ChatGPT realises there are three “r”s in the word “strawberry”. Or, when I can actually start to afford this PC refresh I was planning.

The post Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella wants our “social permission” continue our mindless march to AI appeared first on Stevivor.

It's a bold strategy, Cotton.

Ubisoft today announced “a major organizational, operational and portfolio reset” that means it will cancel 6 games (including The Prince of Persia Sands of Time Remake), and delay 7 more. The publisher has also declared a focus on games as a service (GaaS) and “player-facing Generative AI”.

“Today’s announcement introduces a radically new value-creation model: a more gamer-centric organization, structured around creative genres, relying on integrated business units with faster, decentralized decision-making and a greater ability to quickly adapt to players’ expectations. This transformation will be supported by a rightsized and more agile organization, delivering improved structural efficiencies over time,” reads a press release from Ubisoft.

“The new operating model will further empower the execution of the Group’s strategy, centered on Open World Adventures and GaaS-native experiences, supported by targeted investments, deeper specialization, and cutting-edge technology, including accelerated investments behind player-facing Generative AI.”

“On the one hand, the AAA industry has become persistently more selective and competitive with rising development costs and greater challenges in creating brands. On the other hand, exceptional AAA games, when successful, have more financial potential than ever,” said Ubisoft CEO, Yves Guillemot. “In this context, today we are announcing a major reset built to create the conditions for a return to sustainable growth over time. We are transforming Ubisoft’s operating model to produce exceptional quality games on the two core pillars of our strategy, Open World Adventures and GaaS-native experiences.”

Ubisoft’s new creative houses

Ubisoft also announced five creative houses that will help to accomplish its new plans.

“At the center of this transformation are our Creative Houses, integrated business units now combining production and publishing and therefore unifying the gamer relationship. Each one is built around a clear genre and brand focus, with full responsibility and financial ownership, led by dedicated leadership teams. It is a radical move, relying on a more decentralized creative organization with faster decision making and best-in-class cross functional core services supporting and serving each Creative House,” said Guillemot.

“To put the Creative Houses in the best conditions to succeed, we decided to refocus our portfolio with a meaningfully revised 3-year roadmap and accelerate our cost reductions initiatives to right size the organization. We will discontinue several projects currently in development and provide additional time to certain games, to ensure enhanced quality and maximize long term value. We will also selectively close several studios and continue restructurings throughout the Group. While these decisions are difficult, they are necessary for us to build a more focused, efficient and sustainable organization over the long term.”

Ubisoft’s new creative houses are as follows:

• Creative house 1: The already-established Vantage Studios, which has control of Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Rainbow Six
• Creative house 1: Which will look after “competitive and cooperative shooter experiences” including franchises The Division, Ghost Recon, and Splinter Cell
• Creative house 3: Looking after “select, sharp Live experiences” like For Honor, The Crew, Riders Republic, Brawlhalla, and Skull & Bones
• Creative house 4: In charge of “immersive fantasy worlds and narrative-driven universes” including Anno, Might & Magic, Rayman, Prince of Persia, Beyond Good & Evil
• Creative house 5: This last house works in “casual and family-friendly games” with games including Just Dance, Idle Miner Tycoon, Ketchapp, Hungry Shark, Invincible: Guarding the Globe, and Uno

Cancellations and delays

Ubisoft confirmed that it has cancelled — “discontinued,” in its own words — six titles including The Prince of Persia Sands of Time Remake. Of the remaining five cancelled games, 4 were unannounced, and one was a mobile title. Three of those unannounced titles were based on new IP.

“We’ve made the difficult decision to stop development on Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Remake,” reads a post on the game’s Twitter account. “We know this is deeply disappointing. The game carries enormous meaning for fans and for the teams who worked on it.

“While the project had real potential, we weren’t able to reach the level of quality you deserve, and continuing would have required more time and investment than we could responsibly commit,” it continued. “And we didn’t want to release something that fell short of what The Sands of Time represents.”

The publisher also confirmed it “will allocate additional development time to 7 games in order to ensure enhanced quality benchmarks are fully met and maximize long-term value creation. This includes the unannounced title initially planned for FY26, that has been delayed to FY27.”

Ubisoft didn’t confirm which titles will be delayed, though it’s believed an oft-rumoured Assassin’s Creed Black Flag remake may be one of those titles.

What do you make of Ubisoft’s announcement today? Sound off in the comments area, below.

The post Ubisoft cancels 6 games, delays 7 more, will focus on GaaS and generative AI appeared first on Stevivor.

One hour chunks, with five hours a month, reportedly...

Free, ad-supported Xbox Cloud Gaming looks to be planned for release by Microsoft sometime this year, as mentions of the tier are already finding their way into the Xbox PC app.

As reported by The Verge’s Tom Warren, a new tooltip reading “1 hour of ad-supported playtime per session” has found its way onto the Xbox PC app, on screen as Xbox Cloud Streaming fires itself up. According to Warren, this aligns with his previous reporting; Microsoft internal testing limits the free, ad-supported feature to one hour per session. Warren also reports that Microsoft is planning to let users take advantage of five total hours of this free tier per month.

Warren continues to state that Microsoft’s internal testing will show two minutes of preroll ads before Xbox Cloud Streaming can be accessed; users will be able to stream their owned games, alongside a selection of additional titles.

A change-up to Xbox Game Pass tiers last October saw Xbox Cloud Streaming moving from a benefit on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to one on every level, though the highest tier does offer higher bitrates and up to 1440p streaming.

While a release date for this tier hasn’t been announced — Microsoft is keeping relatively quiet about it for now — Warren says it’s due “in the coming weeks”.

We’ll let know when Xbox Cloud Streaming heads to non-Xbox Game Pass subscribers, albeit at the price of preroll ads.

The post Free, ad-supported Xbox Cloud Gaming looks to be coming in 2026 appeared first on Stevivor.

Rig check.

Marathon PC specs have today been detailed by Bungie and Sony, and are pretty reasonable if you ask us.

Here’s what you’ll need to be running to play.

Marathon Minimum PC specs

• Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
• OS: Windows 10 64-bit (latest Service Pack)
• Processor: Intel Core i5-6600 / AMD Ryzen 5 2600
• Memory: 8 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti (4 GB) / AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT (4 GB) / Intel Arc A580 (8 GB, with ReBAR on)
• DirectX: Version 12
• Network: Broadband Internet connection

Marathon Recommended PC specs

• Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
• OS: Windows 10 64-bit (latest Service Pack)
• Processor: Intel Core i5-10400 / AMD Ryzen 5 3500
• Memory: 16 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 2060 (6 GB) / AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT (8 GB) / Intel Arc A770 (16 GB, with ReBAR on)
• DirectX: Version 12
• Network: Broadband Internet connection

The title will be available in both Standard and Deluxe editions for all available platforms, with each supporting cross-play and cross-save.

Marathon is now planned for a March 2026 release on Windows PC, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, and PS5.

The post Marathon PC specs are pretty modest, so get ready to extract appeared first on Stevivor.

More coming and going.

Xbox Game Pass January 2026 additions and removals are starting to be detailed by Microsoft and its partners. Here’s what’s coming and going throughout the month.

And just so you know what’s up, here’s a post about how Xbox Game Pass has changed of late.

Last month: December 2025  >  This month: January 2026  >  Next month: February 2026

Game Pass is a multi-tiered system; Xbox Game Pass Essentials offers the least, Xbox Game Pass Premium has more, but less than the behemoth that is Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

Those subscribed to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate have access to Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass alongside access to the EA Play Vault and Ubisoft+ Classics as well. Finally, all tiers have access Xbox Cloud Streaming on supported devices.

Below, you’ll find the titles you can soon expect (or in some cases, lose) on Xbox Game Pass, PC Game Pass and Xbox Cloud Streaming.

We’ll be adding to the lists below as more games are revealed.

Xbox Game Pass Essentials additions and removals

Additions

• TBD

Removals

• Carrion (Cloud, Console, and PC): 1 January 2026
• Hell Let Loose (Cloud, Console, and PC): 1 January 2026
• Flintlock The Siege of Dawn (Cloud, Handheld, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 16 January
• Neon White (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• Road 96 (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• The Ascent (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• The Grinch Christmas Adventures (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• Shady Part of Me (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Cataclismo (PC): 1 February
• Starbound (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Lonely Mountains Snow Riders (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Paw Patrol World (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Citizen Sleeper 2 Starward Vector (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February

Xbox Game Pass Premium additions and removals

Additions

• Brews & Bastards (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 7 January
• Little Nightmares Enhanced Edition (Cloud, Handheld, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 7 January
• Atomfall (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 8 January
• Lost in Random: The Eternal Die (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC): 8 January
• Rematch (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 8 January
• Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine – Master Crafted Edition (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 8 January
• Final Fantasy – (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC): 9 January
• My Little Pony: A Zephyr Heights Mystery (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• Resident Evil Village (Cloud, Console, and PC): 21 January
• Death Stranding Director’s Cut (Cloud, Handheld, PC and Xbox Series X|S): 22 January
• RoadCraft (PC): 22 January
• Ninja Gaiden Ragebound (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 22 January
• The Talos Principle 2 (PC and Xbox Series X|S): 28 January
• Anno: Mutationem (Cloud, PC, and Console): 29 January
• Drop Duchy (Cloud, PC, and Console): 29 January
• Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 30 January

Removals

• Carrion (Cloud, Console, and PC): 1 January 2026
• Hell Let Loose (Cloud, Console, and PC): 1 January 2026
• Flintlock The Siege of Dawn (Cloud, Handheld, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 16 January
• Neon White (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• Road 96 (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• The Ascent (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• The Grinch Christmas Adventures (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• Shady Part of Me (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Cataclismo (PC): 1 February
• Starbound (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Lonely Mountains Snow Riders (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Paw Patrol World (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Citizen Sleeper 2 Starward Vector (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate additions and removals

Additions

• Brews & Bastards (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 7 January
• Little Nightmares Enhanced Edition (Cloud, Handheld, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 7 January
• Atomfall (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 8 January
• Lost in Random: The Eternal Die (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC): 8 January
• Rematch (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 8 January
• Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine – Master Crafted Edition (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 8 January
• Final Fantasy – (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC): 9 January
• Star Wars Outlaws (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 14 January
• My Little Pony: A Zephyr Heights Mystery (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• Resident Evil Village (Cloud, Console, and PC): 21 January
• MIO: Memories in Orbit (Cloud, Handheld, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 21 January
• Death Stranding Director’s Cut (Cloud, Handheld, PC and Xbox Series X|S): 22 January
• RoadCraft (PC): 22 January
• Ninja Gaiden Ragebound (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 22 January
• The Talos Principle 2 (PC and Xbox Series X|S): 28 January
• Anno: Mutationem (Cloud, PC, and Console): 29 January
• Drop Duchy (Cloud, PC, and Console): 29 January
• MySims: Cozy Bundle (PC): 30 January
• Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 30 January

Removals

• Carrion (Cloud, Console, and PC): 1 January 2026
• Hell Let Loose (Cloud, Console, and PC): 1 January 2026
• Flintlock The Siege of Dawn (Cloud, Handheld, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 16 January
• Neon White (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• Road 96 (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• The Ascent (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• The Grinch Christmas Adventures (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• Shady Part of Me (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Cataclismo (PC): 1 February
• Starbound (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Lonely Mountains Snow Riders (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Paw Patrol World (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Citizen Sleeper 2 Starward Vector (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February
• Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap (Cloud, PC, and Console): 1 February

PC Game Pass additions and removals

Additions

• Brews & Bastards (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 7 January
• Little Nightmares Enhanced Edition (Cloud, Handheld, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 7 January
• Atomfall (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 8 January
• Lost in Random: The Eternal Die (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, and PC): 8 January
• Rematch (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 8 January
• Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine – Master Crafted Edition (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 8 January
• Final Fantasy – (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, and PC): 9 January
• Star Wars Outlaws (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 14 January
• My Little Pony: A Zephyr Heights Mystery (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• Resident Evil Village (Cloud, Console, and PC): 21 January
• MIO: Memories in Orbit (Cloud, Handheld, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 21 January
• Death Stranding Director’s Cut (Cloud, Handheld, PC and Xbox Series X|S): 22 January
• RoadCraft (PC): 22 January
• Ninja Gaiden Ragebound (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 22 January
• The Talos Principle 2 (PC and Xbox Series X|S): 28 January
• Anno: Mutationem (Cloud, PC, and Console): 29 January
• Drop Duchy (Cloud, PC, and Console): 29 January
• MySims: Cozy Bundle (PC): 30 January
• Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 30 January

Removals

• Carrion (Cloud, Console, and PC): 1 January 2026
• Hell Let Loose (Cloud, Console, and PC): 1 January 2026
• Flintlock The Siege of Dawn (Cloud, Handheld, PC, and Xbox Series X|S): 16 January
• Neon White (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• Road 96 (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• The Ascent (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January
• The Grinch Christmas Adventures (Cloud, Console, Handheld, and PC): 16 January

We’ll continue to this list as more is known. Until that time, what do you make of Xbox Game Pass in January 2026?

The post Xbox Game Pass January 2026 additions and removals appeared first on Stevivor.

Life is Strange Reunion was today announced, a new entry in the franchise starring the original title’s Max and Chloe, and seeming set in and around the events of the first game.

Moreover, with the game’s announcement comes its release date: 26 March.

“Play as both Max and Chloe as an all-new story builds towards an epic finale! In three days, a deadly inferno will destroy Caledon University,” a description of Reunion reads. 
“Max’s Rewind power has bought her time – but she can’t prevent the blaze alone. Can Max & Chloe find a future together… Before everything burns?”

Over on Xbox Wire, Deck Nine’s Andrew James described Reunion as, “the thrilling finale to the Max and Chloe saga, a chapter that brings their book to a close.”

“This is a full circle moment for both developers and fans — one that builds on everything that has come before,” James continued. “And even as the game delivers a reunion long-thought impossible, it also caps off our time at Caledon University in a literal blaze of glory.”

Expect Life is Strange Reunion from 26 March on Windows PC via Steam, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, and PS5. The title is developed by Deck Nine and published by Square Enix.

The post Life is Strange Reunion pairs Max and Chloe, coming 26 March appeared first on Stevivor.

The festival has been in operation since 2004.

Melbourne’s very own Freeplay Independent Games Festival is likely to close this year, following a failed funding application to Creative Victoria’s Creative Enterprises fund.

“Last year, Freeplay applied to Creative Victoria’s Creative Enterprises fund. Unfortunately, our application was unsuccessful. This means we do not currently have ongoing funding to support our organisation, and there are no relevant and available opportunities for Freeplay on the horizon,” reads an update from organisers.

“As such, we are unable to continue paying our co-directors a salary to run Freeplay events, and there is no guarantee we can operate beyond 2026. We are currently operating with our volunteer board steering the ship whilst we arrange plans for our slated events this year.”

The update continues on to say that, given the circumstances, “Freeplay is likely looking at its last year of operation for the foreseeable future.”

Freeplay first started in 2004, consistently growing since its inception. In 2023, the festival received two-year organisational funding from Creative Victoria, allowing the festival to hire two part-time directors and expand the festival’s offerings. Events like Parallels “now cost upwards of $100,000 to deliver,” organisers disclosed.

In light of the current situation, organisers are also calling up the community to provide their input in order to help organisers, “decide the best path forward.” Those interested can take part in the survey, right here.

The post Freeplay Independent Games Festival “likely looking at its last year of operation” appeared first on Stevivor.

More to get excited for!

Ball x Pit will add a host of new, free content with its Regal Update on 27 January.

The update will add not one, but two new adventurers in The Carouser and The Falconer. The former will have returning balls orbit around him, while the latter is flanked by two falcons (naturally) that will help throw balls.

“In addition to the new treasure seekers joining the roster, The Regal Update will also introduce 8 new balls and several new passives,” Kenny Sun said in an update, also promising, “a nice surprise” that will be held until the release.

This update is the first of three free major updates planned for the year; more will follow in April and July.

Ball x Pit is available on Windows PC, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS5, Switch, also via Xbox Game Pass. A Nintendo Switch 2 release follows later this year. We reviewed it here.

The post Ball X Pit Regal Update adds free content from 27 January appeared first on Stevivor.

Welcome to Endless Shift.

FBC Firebreak has received its second major (and free!) update in “Rogue Protocol,” one that adds a new roguelite mode called Endless Shift.

“Endless Shift sends teams of Firebreakers into sealed sections of the Oldest House, where survival depends on teamwork, risk-taking, and rapid adaptation,” Remedy said in a press release.

“Each run pits squads against increasingly dangerous waves of Hiss enemies, rewarding successful combat with a new currency called Corruption. Corruption can be spent between waves to unlock Enhancements, weapons, and gear upgrades. No two runs of Endless Shift play out the same, encouraging experimentation and high-stakes decision-making from players.”

“With Endless Shift, we wanted to create a fresh experience within the game that spoke directly to the danger and selfless heroism at the heart of Firebreak while tying its gameplay into the initiative’s primary mission: holding the line against any crisis threatening the Oldest House, no matter how unpredictable,” said game director Mike Kayatta.

Celebrating this new release, FBC Firebreak will offer up double XP over 24-26 January here in Australia. The game will also be free-to-play during that time, though it already is, essentially, to those with Xbox Game Pass or PlayStation Plus.

FBC Firebreak is available on Windows PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, and PS5, also available on all tiers of Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus.

FBC Firebreak 17 June 2025 PC PS5 Xbox Series S & X   Buy on Windows PC: Steam, Epic Games Store Buy on Xbox: Microsoft Store Buy on PlayStation: PlayStation Store

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Following a leak... oops!

Following an accidental leak by Xbox, the Marathon release date has been officially announced and will occur on 5 March.

Marathon is, of course, the latest from Destiny and Destiny 2 studio, Bungie. The title was originally scheduled for a September 2025 release date before allegations of stolen art and a desire to improve core gameplay delayed the extraction shooter into this year.

“In Marathon, players scavenge the lost colony of Tau Ceti IV as a bio-cybernetic Runner while surviving against hostile security forces, rival Runners, and inhospitable environments to seek their fortune,” an accompanying press release summarised.

A new gameplay trailer was also released for the upcoming shooter; it can be found above.

The title will be available in both Standard and Deluxe editions for all available platforms, with each supporting cross-play and cross-save.

Marathon is now planned for a March 2026 release on Windows PC, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, and PS5.

The post Marathon release date set for 5 March appeared first on Stevivor.

Mark those calendars!

The Coffee Talk Tokyo release date has been delayed to 21 May, developer Toge and publisher Chorus Worldwide shared yesterday.

“We truly understand that waiting longer can be disappointing,” the team said in a press release. “However, our priority is to deliver the best possible experience from the very first moment players step back into the café. This additional time allows us to ensure Coffee Talk Tokyo feels warm, complete, and worthy of the world so many players love.”

Interestingly, the press release also insisted that this new release date was “the final release date,” so mark your calendars accordingly.

This will mark the third entry in the Coffee Talk franchise, moving the narrative-based title away from Seattle and into Japan.

“Coffee Talk Tokyo is a late-night digital refuge where every cup tells a story,” Toge and Chorus said back at the game’s announcement. “Set against the neon-lit nights of Tokyo, players meet a brand-new cast, brew drinks, and shape conversations through meaningful choices.”

Coffee Talk Tokyo now heads to Windows PC via Steam, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS5, and Switch on 21 May 2026.

The post Coffee Talk Tokyo delayed from March to 21 May appeared first on Stevivor.

And it's not bad!

Amazon continues its drip feed of news about the upcoming live-action Tomb Raider series with our first look at Sophie Turner as the iconic adventurer Lara Croft.

As you can see above — and below in full detail — Turner actually looks quite a bit like the character’s original 1996 Core/Eidos design. I personally love the circular, red glasses.

While the image is great and all, Amazon MGM Studios didn’t provide any further details about the series.

Last week, however, Amazon MGM Studios detailed a host of actors confirmed for the series. They include Sigourney Weaver, Jason Isaacs, Celia Imrie, and many more either taking up the mantle of characters seen in the Tomb Raider video games, or new characters entirely.

“I’ve been a long-time fan of Tomb Raider and the character of Lara. She has always felt for me, very emboldened in a male dominated world. She’s a fierce female role model,” Sophie Turner said of her role at that same time.

It’s unclear when we should expect the series as yet; we’ll keep you posted.

The post Amazon shows off first look at Sophie Turner as Lara Croft appeared first on Stevivor.

Twisted Pixel Games, Sanzaru Games, and Armature Studio are no more.

Meta has closed down three of its Oculus Studios VR devs as part of reported layoffs of 10% of its AR/VR focused Reality Labs division. Those studios include Twisted Pixel Games (Deadpool VR), Sanzaru Games (Asgard’s Wrath), and Armature Studio (Resident Evil 4 VR).

“We said last month that we were shifting some of our investment from Metaverse toward Wearables,” Meta told Game Developer, confirming the studio closures.

“This is part of that effort, and we plan to reinvest the savings to support the growth of wearables this year,” Meta continued.

Meta — either as Meta or as Facebook — acquired Sanzaru Games back in 2020, followed by Twisted Pixel Games and Armature Studio in 2022. Meta also acquired Echo VR developer Ready at Dawn back in 2020 and closed the studio down in 2024.

Bloomberg adds that devs behind the Supernatural VR fitness app will no longer develop new content for it, but the “existing product” will still be supported.

Our hearts go out to those who’ve lost their jobs as a result of Meta’s decisions.

The post Meta closes three of its VR studios appeared first on Stevivor.

Hundreds of jobs, if not more, would be lost.

Update: EB Games Australia has notified its employees that all of its 38 New Zealand stores will be closed.

As part of the closure, all stores will cease operations from 31 January, and the New Zealand distribution centre will follow on 28 February.

The news comes from RNZ, which broke the original news that the retailer was “proposing” to close all local stores.

Original story [8 January]: EB Games stores across New Zealand could soon be closed, EB Games Australia has reportedly told local employees.

New Zealand site RNZ reports that managing director Shane Stockwell has sent a letter to all EB Games NZ employees proposing that each and every retail shop in the country be closed. 

The letter states that, “[t]his proposal is not final, and no decision will be made until we have completed a full consultation process in good faith with affected team members.”

It adds that, “if the proposal were to proceed, it would mean that all roles within EB Games New Zealand would be disestablished.”

Elsewhere in the letter, Stockwell stated that EB Games Australia’s New Zealand-based stores were no longer commercially viable, incurring a “multi-million dollar loss during the 2024 fiscal year,” and that, “[w]e are saddened to be in this position having already made significant and repeated efforts to turn the business around.”

The letter provides employees the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposal by 12 January.

EB Games Australia has 38 stores within New Zealand, compared to 336 in Australia. It’s unknown how many employees will be impacted should those 38 local stores close.

The post EB Games Australia closing all of New Zealand’s 38 stores appeared first on Stevivor.

Better late than never?

It’s halfway through 2026, and you’re likely back at work over the holiday break, so you know what that means: it’s time to revisit the year that was thanks to Nintendo.

You might be through thinking of last year’s hellscape and have fully been focused on what’s already proving to be a nightmare, but Nintendo’s bringing you back to 2025 one last time with the review, which can be found right here.

Your own year in review will flag if you’ve dropped money on a Switch 2, and will otherwise tell you your games played, hours played, alongside the games that you played the most (Mario Kart World and the Knockout Tour, in my own case).

You can also pick your favourite game out of the ones you’ve played, and access a little summary to share with friends and family.

If you want to share your own stats with readers, go for it — you can do so in the comments area, below.

The post Your Nintendo 2025 year in review is now available appeared first on Stevivor.

You were expecting him to fit within a norm?

Deadpool heads to Marvel Rivals later this week, able to be used as a Vanguard, Duelist, or Strategist. Also, something something dat ass.

“Witty-packed banter and flashy moves aren’t all that Deadpool has to offer,” NetEase said. “Picture devastating damage output, an impenetrable shield, AND swift healing. Wait… in that case— that might actually make him the full package. Switching positions, he’s here to shake things up and take the role of a Vanguard, Strategist, and Duelist.”

Balance notes whenever Deadpool is tweaked are sure going to be something, aren’t they?

Vanguard Deadpool has that shield that NetEase referenced, while Duelist Deadpool will be able to use his sword in masterful ways. Finally, Strategist Deadpool uses his sword and gun to heal fellow teammates.

Deadpool heads to Marvel Rivals alongside season six from 17 January, which also adds a new map called Museum of Contemplation (albeit a few days later on 30 January here in Australia).

Team-ups also change, with Peni losing her team-up with Rocket, and Spider-Man losing one with Human Torch. In their place, Peni and Spider-Man will receive a new team-up, and Deadpool with Jeff the Land Shark.

Marvel Rivals is out now on Windows PC, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, and PS5.

Marvel Rivals 6 December 2024 PC PS5 Xbox Series S & X   Buy on Windows PC: Steam Buy on Xbox: Microsoft Store Buy on PlayStation: PlayStation Store

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New year, new games.

PlayStation Plus January 2026 additions and removals have been detailed by Sony in the form of Essential monthly games, and we’ve got the full list for you below.

Here’s what you’ll soon be able to access (or not) on PlayStation Plus tiers that include Essentials, Extra, Deluxe, and Premium. Those tiers are listed in order; higher tiers also can access any games in tiers under them.

We, of course, update this list as more titles are confirmed.

Last month: December 2025  >  This month: January 2026  >  Next month: February 2026

PlayStation Plus Essentials January 2026 monthly games

• Need for Speed Unbound (PS5)
• Disney Epic Mickey Rebrushed (PS4, PS5)
• Core Keeper (PS4, PS5)

The Essentials monthly games will be available to claim between 6 January 2026 and 2 February 2026.

PlayStation Plus Extra January 2026 additions

• Resident Evil Village (PS4, PS5)
• Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth (PS4, PS5)
• Expeditions A Mudrunner Game (PS4, PS5)
• A Quiet Place The Road Ahead (PS5)
• Darkest Dungeon (PS4, PS5)
• The Exit 8 (PS4, PS5)
• Art of Rally (PS4, PS5)
• A Little to the Left (PS4, PS5)

The games above will be available from 20 January.

PlayStation Plus Extra January 2026 removals

• TBD

PlayStation Plus Deluxe, Premium January 2026 additions

• Ridge Racer (PS4, PS5)

The games above will be available from 20 January.

PlayStation Plus Deluxe, Premium January 2026 removals

• TBD

We’ll continue to this list as more is known. Until that time, what do you make of PlayStation Plus in January 2026?

The post PlayStation Plus January 2026 additions and removals appeared first on Stevivor.

Time to set those alarms!

A special Resident Evil Requiem Showcase will air early tomorrow here in Australia, and will provide more details about Capcom’s upcoming mega-sequel.

The 12-minute showcase will be all about February’s Requiem, which at December’s Game Awards finally revealed Leon S. Kennedy as a playable character. We’re willing to bet a fair amount of the showcase will be around that little tidbit itself.

You can head here to watch the showcase when it airs at 9.00 am AEDT tomorrow, 16 January (check your own timezone here), though we’ll embed the video itself in this very post when available.

Update: A video embed is now available… but has to be viewed directly in YouTube. You can click on the video below to do just that.

Until then, we’ve embedded a teaser, above, to get you through.

What are you hoping to see from tomorrow’s showcase? Or, since 27 February isn’t too far away, are you keeping at arm’s length to remain as spoiler-free as possible? Sound off in the comments section, below.

Expect Resident Evil Requiem from 27 February 2026 on Windows PC, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS5, and Switch 2.

Resident Evil Requiem 27 February 2026 PC PS5 Switch 2 Xbox Series S & X   Buy on Windows PC: Steam Buy on Xbox: Microsoft Store, Amazon Buy on PlayStation: PlayStation Store, Amazon Buy on Switch: Nintendo eShop, Amazon

The post Resident Evil Requiem Showcase coming early tomorrow, 16 January appeared first on Stevivor.

Surprise!

Star Trek Voyager Across the Unknown not only has a release date of 19 February here in Australia, but a new confirmation of Switch 2 availability.

A Nintendo eShop listing has outed both those bits of news, alongside pricing and a special deluxe edition that comes with “5 additional missions, 2 new recruitable heroes and 3 new technologies.”

The title is priced at $54.95 AUD (standard) or $69.95 AUD (Deluxe Edition) on console.

While Steam users already had access to a demo, players on PlayStation and Xbox can now access the same; a demo is also planned for Switch 2 ahead of the game’s full launch.

Finally, TrueAchievements was the first to report on the game’s full achievements list. It’s relatively standard fare, with achievements awarded for upgrading and repairing Voyager, recruiting crew, and mission-based activities.

The news also comes alongside a new trailer, which is above.

Star Trek Voyager Across the Unknown heads to Windows PC via Steam, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS5, and Switch 2 on 19 February.

Star Trek Voyager Across the Unknown 19 February 2026 PC PS5 Switch 2 Xbox Series S & X   Buy on Windows PC: Steam Buy on Xbox: Microsoft Store Buy on PlayStation: PlayStation Store Buy on Switch: Nintendo eShop

The post Star Trek Voyager Across the Unknown release date, Switch 2 release confirmed appeared first on Stevivor.

Which aligns with a December 2025 SEC filing

While EB Games Australia has proposed the closure of all its New Zealand-based stores, North American counterpart GameStop has reportedly closed down more than 400 stores across the US in the opening days of 2026.

A blogspot site that gathers store closures through employee reporting and GameStop’s store locator reports that 435 stores have closed this year, at the time of writing. As Polygon adds, these moves should have been expected; according to a December 2025 SEC filing, GameStop said it anticipated “closing a significant number of additional stores in fiscal 2025.”

The same filing said that GameStop had already closed 590 stores in 2024. A different SEC filing from earlier in 2025 stated that GameStop operated a total of 2,325 stores in the United States at that time.

The December 2025 SEC filing stated that GameStop also planned to close stores in Canada, France, Austria, Ireland, Switzerland, Germany, and Italy.

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And it's coming later this month.

Dead by Daylight Stranger Things Chapter 2 will add a host of the popular Netflix’s shows characters at the end of the month, including Vecna, Eleven, Dustin, Robin, and Eddie.

Vecna, one of the biggest bads of Stranger Things, will obviously serve as the DLC’s new killer, while survivors come in the form of Eleven and Dustin. True to form, Robin and Eddie are available as legendary outfits for Eleven and Dustin, respectively, so you can play as whomever you’d like. These new characters join those from Chapter 1: The Demogorgon, Nancy Wheeler, Steve Harrington, and Jonathan Byers.

“[Vecna, or Henry] Creel can bend the world around him, manifesting the physical presence of the Upside Down and using it offensively. Entrap lesser beings in a mass of vines, drawing them deeper into your cursed web,” Behaviour Interactive said of its upcoming killer.

“His control over the Upside Down also grants him terrifying mobility, along with the ability to emerge from the ground and strike all within his path. Those affected by the Upside Down’s touch are subjected to his curse, becoming far more vulnerable to his Power,” Behaviour continued.

“Those afflicted by his curse will find themselves questioning the nature of reality. Is that grandfather clock truly there, and why does its presence bring such misfortune? It is during these fateful moments that Vecna is at his most dangerous, trading a touch of speed for the ability to inflict direct damage.”

Expect the new chapter from 27 January; the content is already available on the PC’s PTB server.

Dead by Daylight is currently available on Windows PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS4, PS5, and Switch. Stranger Things Season 5, the show’s final season, is currently available to Stream on Netflix.

The post Dead by Daylight Stranger Things Chapter 2 adds Vecna, Eleven, Dustin, Robin, Eddie appeared first on Stevivor.

Want in? Sign up!

A second Aniimo closed beta test is scheduled to start on 23 January, with developer Pawprint Studio now accepting sign-ups for those who want to join.

Those interested in joining the playtest on either Windows PC via Steam, Xbox Series S, or Xbox Series X can do so right here. There’s also a slightly different sign-up form for content creators; found here, it provides a little bit more than the usual stream in hope you’ll hype the game up for others.

Alongside news of the closed beta, Pawprint Studio also detailed new Aniimbo, including Boss Aniimo and even its first Legendary Aniimo, named Irelia.

Announced back in June last year, Aniimo is described as a “free-to-play, creature-catching open-world RPG where players explore the world of Idyll, collecting and merging with magical Aniimo creatures through a unique ‘Twining’ mechanic. Players will explore uncharted landscapes, solve ancient mysteries, and master dynamic gameplay in a journey of discovery.”

A bit Pokemon? Sure, but that doesn’t need to be a bad thing.

Aniimo is planned for a 2026 release on Windows PC via Steam and the Microsoft Store, alongside Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, iOS, and Android.

The post Aniimo closed beta test kicks off later in January, accepting sign-ups now appeared first on Stevivor.

Try before you buy?

Xbox Game Studios’ Towerborne will head from free-to-play to paid next month, also offering up a “massive” update, according to developer Stoic.

The side-scrolling action RPG brawler was first added to Steam Early Access in September 2024 before being added to Xbox Game Pass back in April 2025. The full access release of Towerborne comes with a $24.99 USD price tag, or $29.99 USD for its Deluxe Edition.

The new premium-priced title will offer up a big update at that transition point, 26 February, which adds “a complete story & final showdown” alongside a “fully reworked difficulty system”, new world map, new challenges, and more. Additionally, the title will also be available on PS5, in a first.

“With this full game update, Towerborne shifts from its original vision as a free-to-play, always online title into a buy once, offline game – you will own the complete experience permanently, with offline play and online co-op,” Stoic said in an update on Xbox Wire.

“We’ve removed ongoing monetization mechanics and focused on a rich, story-driven campaign plus re-playable co-op content,” Stoic continued. “After listening to our community during Early Access and Game Preview, we learned players wanted a complete, polished experience without ongoing monetization mechanics. Moving to a premium model lets us deliver the full game upfront—no live-service grind, no pay-to-win systems—just the best version of Towerborne.”

An associated FAQ asserted that those who’re playing the free-to-play release won’t lose any progress or in-game earned items, but also that players are encouraged to start a fresh save to experience the new content.

Towerborne is currently available on Windows PC, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X. It will add a PS5 release to that list from 26 February, when the game goes from free-to-play to priced.

The post Xbox Game Studios’ Towerborne moves from free-to-play to paid appeared first on Stevivor.

Another Xbox exclusive is no more.

Another Xbox exclusive has bit the dust: Obsidian’s Avowed will be the latest to be ported to PS5, and will be available from 17 February.

It’s not just the core game that’ll be available on PS5; so too will a new update that adds a photo mode, a new game plus mode, new character races that include dwarves, and an additional weapon type.

“It’s a lot of work and a difficult thing to really nail down, especially in Avowed with its parkour systems and its combat mechanics and all the weapon types and stuff like that in the game,” Obsidian’s Dimitri Berman said of the new content as part of the New Game+ Showcase.

“Our different races are different sizes, they’re different shapes, they’re a very unique game experience when you play as each one of them in a first-person game specifically. So it was something new to wrangle for Avowed.”

“Avowed is a truly strange game from top to bottom” Jam wrote in our 7.5/10 review. “It’s one that I’m sincerely glad that I got to play, but also one I don’t think I’ll remember well down the line.”

Avowed is already available on Windows PC, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X — part of Xbox Game Pass — and heads to PS5 on 17 February.

Avowed 18 February 2025 PC Xbox Series S & X   Buy on Windows PC: Microsoft Store, Steam, Battle.net Buy on Xbox: Microsoft Store

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And it happens on 23 January here in Australia.

A new Xbox January Developer Direct is scheduled for 23 January here in Australia, and promises looks at Fable, Forza Horizon 6, and Beast of Reincarnation.

Playground Games will be doing a lot of the direct’s heavy lifting, responsible for both Fable and Forza Horizon 6. Pokemon‘s Game Freak will also feature of course, as it’s the studio developing Beast of Reincarnation.

“Presented by the game creators themselves, Developer_Direct will once again give you an inside look at not just the games, but the studios working to bring them to life,” Microsoft said of the stream. “Fittingly for Xbox’s 25^th anniversary year, that includes the return of some of our most legendary franchises, which rub shoulders with a brand new title from one of Japan’s most beloved studios.”

The stream starts at 5.00 am AEDT on 23 January here in Australia, which corresponds to 10am Pacific, 1pm Eastern, or 6pm GMT the day before, 22 January. You can check your own timezone right here.

It’s unclear how long the show will last for, but we’ll be reporting on all the news after the event. We’ll have a video embed for you when it’s available. In the meantime, will you be waking up early for this one? Why or why not?

The post Xbox January Developer Direct promises looks at Fable, Forza, and Beast of Reincarnation appeared first on Stevivor.

Not long now!

A new Mario Tennis Fever trailer shows players just what they can expect from the Switch 2 exclusive.

“Mario Tennis Fever will serve up new characters, game modes and experiences. This time around there are 38 playable characters, the most in series history – including the debuts of Goomba, Nabbit, Piranha Plant, Baby Wario and Baby Waluigi. Once you’ve selected your character, get into the game with tried-and-true techniques like Topspin, Slices and Lobs,” Nintendo said in a press release.

“Get ready for the all-new Fever Rackets and swing the match in your favour. Equip your character with a selection of 30 new rackets, each with its own unique abilities – like the Ice Racket, which turns parts of the court into a slippery frozen tundra, the Mini Mushroom Racket, which shrinks your opponent to bite size and the Shadow Racket, which will have your opponent seeing double as you create a duplicate of your character,” Nintendo continued. “Just fill up your Fever Gauge to unleash a Fever Shot. And if you’re on the receiving end of one, don’t worry; you can try and send it back at your opponent before the shot hits the court, so they feel the effects instead.”

“Mario Tennis Fever also introduces new and returning game modes for everyone from pros to first timers,” the press release continued. “Get ready for Trial Towers mode, where players take on a series of challenges as you make your way to the top. There is also the new Mix It Up mode, where you can play matches with unconventional rules – like Ring Shot, where you have to hit balls with precision through rings to earn points, and Forest Court Match where you can expand the court by feeding Piranha Plants a steady diet of tennis balls.”

Tennis Fever also borrows “Wonder Effects inspired by Super Mario Bros. Wonder,” Nintendo advised, alongside returning modes like Tournament mode, online modes, and Ranked Matches. Finally, a new Swing mode will let you use your Joy-Con 2 controller like a tennis racquet.

Mario Tennis Fever heads to the Switch 2 on 12 February.

Mario Tennis Fever 12 February 2026 Switch 2   Buy on Switch 2: Nintendo eShop, Amazon

The post New Mario Tennis Fever trailer shows off its goods appeared first on Stevivor.

Ubisoft says its decision was made "well before" the unionisation.

Ubisoft has confirmed it will shut down Ubisoft Halifax, the studio behind the upcoming Rainbow Six Mobile, and one that unionised only days ago.

Canadian news outlet CTV reported that 61 of Ubisoft Halifax’s employees joined the Game & Media Workers Guild of Canada, Local 30111 on 22 December 2025, following a certification by the Nova Scotia Labour Board on 18 December 2025. The decision made Ubisoft Halifax the publisher’s first labour union in North America.

Speaking with Video Games Chronicle, Ubisoft stated that its decision to close the studio was made “well before” the unionisation, and is instead part of an effort to “streamline operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs”. It added that it “full respects” employees’ right to unionise.

In total, 71 employees will lose their jobs as a result of Ubisoft’s decision.

Ubisoft Halifax was previously known as Longtail Studios. After its foundation in 2010, it worked on Rocksmith 2014 before being acquired by Ubisoft. The studio then went to work on mobile titles including 2018’s Assassin’s Creed Rebellion and the upcoming Rainbow Six Mobile.

Rainbow Six Mobile officially launches on 23 February 2026.

The post Ubisoft shuts down recently unionised Rainbow Six Mobile studio appeared first on Stevivor.