When mapping out the true heavyweights of asymmetrical multiplayer, you always end up back at Dead by Daylight. Drop launched back in 2016 by Montreal’s own Behaviour Interactive, this horror-survival titan essentially threw out the standard industry playbook. It has somehow blown past 60 million global players, locking down a permanent spot in digital culture. Keeping people around that long takes more than luck, though. It requires a brutal combination of multiplayer infrastructure, massive technical pivots, and highly aggressive live-service execution. What originally began as a simple, straightforward 4v1 game of hide-and-seek evolved into a masterclass in player retention.
Balancing Chaos: Fair Play in an Unfair Setup
How long does an asymmetrical game actually live? For Dead by Daylight, it all comes down to aggressive live-service tweaks and its matchmaking loops. True balance in a 4v1 setup is a massive headache. Shift a character’s movement speed by a fraction, or alter a single loop in map geometry, and the core competitive loop falls apart. To stop that from happening, the engineering crew set up automated data pipelines. These pipelines constantly harvest real-time player telemetry, giving devs an instant snapshot of kill ratios, survival rates, and performance trends across millions of active matches.
This massive, daily firehose of data directly fuels server-side hotfixes, balance updates, and content drops. By tracking these metrics under a microscope, the studio deploys fast, incremental balance shifts without shattering the core gameplay. A sophisticated skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) algorithm runs alongside these micro-updates. Instead of static brackets, this system calculates player skill gaps on the fly, matching individuals dynamically across global regions to protect competitive fairness while keeping queue times low.
Unifying Communities via Cross-Progression
The trajectory of Dead by Daylight says a lot about what modern digital audiences want out of entertainment platforms. Today’s players have zero patience for technical friction; they want instant connectivity and flawless backend performance. This demand for real-time responsiveness is a defining trait of Canada’s broader digital economy. Whether regional networks are managing massive user spikes for live sports streaming, processing sudden transaction volumes on major e-commerce hubs, or stabilizing traffic for a high-volume online casino in Canada, the underlying infrastructure requirement is identical: heavy-duty server capacity that prevents systemic downtime.
In the gaming space, this shifting expectation is exactly why advanced cross-progression systems became mandatory. Players want to take their unlocked items, earn cosmetic rewards, and profile setups across different hardware ecosystems without running into a technical wall.
The Streaming Engine: Dominating Twitch and YouTube
If you look past the raw code and server logic, the game owes a massive chunk of its multi-year lifespan to streaming culture. The high-stakes, direct tension of a 4v1 chase provides perfect raw material for creators on Twitch and YouTube. The dev team realized this early on, baking community programs and creator outreach directly into their live-operations strategy.
Constant cosmetic drops, seasonal in-game events, and massive, headline-grabbing crossovers with legendary horror franchises keep players hooked. This self-sustaining loop of content creation and rapid developer response builds an organic marketing engine that pulls in new faces while keeping veterans around for the long haul.
How Montreal is Rewriting the Multiplayer Blueprint
The undeniable momentum of Dead by Daylight shines a massive spotlight on Montreal’s position as a premier global hub for video game development. Fuelled by specialized local talent, Behaviour Interactive has scaled up a dedicated Live Operations group packed with data analysts, product managers, and community specialists.
As the technical demands of multiplayer gaming scale up, the studio’s data-first philosophy offers a blueprint for the rest of the industry. By blending heavy engineering with a sharp understanding of community culture, they’ve ensured that the game’s broader ecosystem will keep thriving for years to come.
After a long period of radio silence, Square Enix showed a new trailer for Kingdom Hearts IV during today’s Nintendo Direct—and confirmed the rest of the series is coming to the Switch 2 (properly) this fall.
Kingdom Hearts IV was initially announced back in April 2022, during a celebration for the series’ 20th anniversary, but has been missing in action ever since. Director Tetsuya Nomura mentioned back in November that his team was “making great progress on the game” but couldn’t say more.
That has all changed now, as the new trailer gives us a better look at Kingdom Hearts IV‘s new, realistic look and expands on the reveal trailer’s scene. A figure dressed in an Organization XIII robe laments that “at first, there were no manifestations of what we know as light and darkness” in this Shibuya-like world, “but our arrival here brought those concepts with us.” All the while, the giant shadowy monster from the previous trailer emerges and threatens to rampage.
Protagonist Sora is then shown using the Keyblade’s chain to sling around the monster as part of what appears to be a huge, multi-phase fight. We also see him in battle footage, taking on Heartless monsters with large, shield-like forearms, using the chains as projectiles, binding the monsters, and even surfing on a wave of them.
The trailer confirms that Kingdom Hearts IV will be available at launch on Nintendo Switch 2, but does not elaborate on when that launch will be. This follows on Square Enix’s recent recommitment to multiplatform development; the newly announced Final Fantasy VII Revelation will also be a day one launch for the Nintendo Switch 2.
The collection’s announcement follows the stealthy removal of the Cloud Editions’ demos from the eShop in North America and Japan a few weeks prior. Those who did purchase the prior edition will need to shell out for the new—albeit at an unspecified discount—but can at least transfer their save data. A demo for Kingdom Hearts III will be available later today.
With no further ETA for Kingdom Hearts IV, fans and newcomers will have plenty of time to catch up. In the meantime, the new trailer offers an exciting proof-of-life for the long-awaited sequel, which will begin a new story arc dubbed “The Lost Master Saga.”
Kingdom Hearts IV is currently in development for all platforms. Kingdom Hearts I-III Collection will arrive on Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, PC, and XBOX Series X|S on October 8, 2026.
SPRAWL zero was a happy surprise during the Summer Game Fest week. Published by Kwalee, the game is developed by a small team, MAETH, with a remote team all around the world, and sitting down to play, I could really see the passion behind what they are building. You play as FIVE, a cyber soldier controlled by the Junta. I was told you’re basically a bad guy in a sea of other bad guys.
MAETH created SPRAWL zero as a love letter to early 2000s FPS shooters, and it oozes that style everywhere from gameplay to graphics to the soundtrack. The team member we sat down with came from a music background but left it behind to pursue his first love, video games. He even went so far as to insist that they didn’t use any tools for the music that wouldn’t have been around in the 2000s era to stay true to their vision. The music is outstanding and keeps you pumped from the very second you drop in to SPRAWL Zero.
A lot of the inspiration for the game comes from Half-Life 2, right down to tools like the Gravity Gloves. Halo was also mentioned as a major influence—they just wanted to go back to the golden age of FPS titles. The graphics, characters and enemies definitely remind me of that era, with a lot of darker tones in the story and design.
The gameplay loop is where SPRAWL zero really hooked me, even though I wasn’t as familiar with the games that inspired it. After you choose your difficulty—there are three meant to purposely not guilt you for your play style, named Martyr, Formidable and Unstoppable, as hard, medium and easy, respectively—you are taken to your mission overview, and then you drop in.
As you move through levels in SPRAWL zero, there is no time to think, only react. The game doesn’t require reloading or finding ammo, as you constantly swap out your weapon for the next one you find, keeping you on your toes constantly as you have to adjust your play style to adapt to the conditions. Items, including guns and medkits, can be thrown at enemies to cause damage (the medkit heals you as it smashes them), and you rock a sick pair of Gravity Gloves that can punch, pull and crush things.
There are three main skills in SPRAWL zero, Bullet Time, Gravity Shield, and Rush Down, that you get in that order. Bullet Time reminded me of VATS in Fallout, where time is slightly slowed to shoot or throw at enemies. Gravity Shield blocks bullets but then offers you the opportunity to launch them back at your attacker. I didn’t experience Rush Down, but it was explained that you become invincible, rush towards your enemy unarmed, and punch them…hard. It also applies shock damage, and you can overrush your enemy to do damage to others.
Another feature is the ability to take out our team leaders, which then highlights the rest of their team for a short while. As for your team, if you come upon allies in battle and assist them, they can join and help you fight some baddies later on. These are mechanics that the team at MAETH don’t spell out for you, but rather things you learn as you play. The more I played, the more I learned, and I slowly developed a groove that felt so good.
There are various weapon rarities, from grey, green, blue, purple, gold and red—legendary. You snatch them from your fallen enemies, find them in chests, and there are even some fun chests that will rotate through items before landing on a winner. Movement is also vital to the game, and MAETH has mastered it. Running, jumping, sliding, vaulting and aiming feel exactly like an FPS should, even better than some AAA games in the last few years. It felt so good ripping around the map and taking out my enemies.
Make no mistake, SPRAWL zero is fast, and it feels like a game that is easy to play and hard to master. One thing is for sure: SPRAWL zero is addictive, and I want more.
On the heels of Sumer Game Fest 2026, a wild Nintendo Direct has appeared, showcasing what’s coming to Nintendo for the coming 2026 year and beyond.
It has been an exciting weekend for video game fans, as Summer Game Fest 2026 has given a whole lot for consumers to look forward to when it comes to playing a good title. PlayStation unveiled a new God of War: Laufey, Xbox brought out the big guns and showed what’s coming in Gears of War: E-Day, and now, it’s Nintendo’s turn. Just yesterday, Nintendo confirmed that there would be a Nintendo Direct today to cap off SGF 2026, and they delivered.
Every Nintendo Direct is loaded with developments ripe from Nintendo, giving fans a look behind the curtain at what’s coming to the Nintendo Switch family of consoles in the coming calendar year and stoking hype for first-party titles, and the Nintendo Direct for June 2026 was no different. We here at CGMagazine have compiled the full list of announcements from the Nintendo Direct, and they can be seen just below in the order they were announced.
Rhythm Heaven Groove
The first title revealed at The Nintendo Direct presentation is for the Nintendo Switch (and Nintendo Switch 2), and it involves hitting notes to the right beat. Rhythm Heaven Groove invites players to hit the right button at the right time, but not always the right rhythm.
Fans who enjoy WarioWare’s brand of mini-games will feel right at home here, as Rhythm Heaven Groove has many. On top of that, there’s a new campaign-based mode where you play a spellcaster against waves of enemies that you cast-to-the-beat to. Rhythm Heaven Groove also invites friends to play and compete against one another in over 30 cooperative or multiplayer mini-games. Rhythm Heaven Groove arrives on July 2.
Onimusha: Way of the Sword
The latest title in the Onimusha series, Onimusha: Way of the Sword, is officially coming to the Nintendo Switch 2. It’s coming September 25.
Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen
Dragon’s Dogma 2 is releasing an expanded version with Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen, and it’s officially coming to the Nintendo Switch 2. This new release comes with everything the original release comes with, except it includes a new location and enemies. It launches on October 9.
Stellar Blade
Nintendo is seriously supporting the Nintendo Switch 2 with third-party offerings in the Nintendo Direct presentation. A port of Stellar Blade has been announced and is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026.
Orbitals
The previously anticipated Orbitals co-op title has received a release date, and it’s coming on September 3.
Rayman Legends Retold
The latest title in the Rayman series, Rayman Legends Retold (announced at the PlayStation State of Play), is coming to Switch 2. It lands on October 1.
Big Walk
The highly anticipated indie title, Big Walk, is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 as announced at the Nintendo Direct. This title allows players to use cross-platform, so all Big Walkers can play together when it launches on August 1.
ONE PIECE: Grand Gourmet
The next title revealed at the Nintendo Direct presentation is a ONE PIECE title that includes cooking and 8-bit graphics, to let players make delicious foods for diners. ONE PIECE: Grand Gourmet will feature over 400 ONE PIECE characters, and it’s coming on October 23 for both Switch and Switch 2 consoles.
Pokopia
A new trailer for Pokopia showed off a free new update that will let players explore the depths of the sea and build underwater. While a free update is coming, so is paid DLC. The Expansion Pass will be available later today, and Bubbly Basin (the first part of the DLC Expansion Pass) is coming in August (with Manaphy teased!).
The latest Fire Emblem, Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave, has finally been given a fresh new look at the Nintendo Direct presentation. Players will have the choice of choosing four main characters to embody, and will be able to recruit characters and spend free time as they see fit (similar to Three Fates). Each main character comes with their own special techniques that can change the tide of battle. Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave launches on September 17.
Ninjala 2: The Uncharted Planet
After accidentally breaking a mysterious seal, you’re stranded on a planet and must find your way back home in Ninjala 2: The Uncharted Planet. Up to four Ninjas can play at once when it launches in the Spring of 2027.
Nintendo Switch Online DK Challenge Event
This limited DK Challenge event will let players take on old Donkey Kong game challenges (and levels) from titles like Donkey Kong Country for a card collection. The DK Challenge starts later today, and it will last until September 1. Fans who own Donkey Kong Bananza will have access to brand new levels, too (with a challenge) via way of DLC.
JUJUTSU KAISEN RUMBLE: SURVIVATON
From the makers of Vampire Survivors comes another one, and this time it’s a Jujutsu Kaisen-flavoured title from poncle, and more than 20 characters from the series will be playable in JUJUTSU KAISEN RUMBLE: SURVIVATON. It’s coming to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026.
Lords of the Fallen II
The next title in the Lords of the Fallen series by CI Games, Lords of the Fallen II, is coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 on launch. It’s coming Fall 2026.
Lies of P: Complete Edition
Lies of P is finally coming to the Nintendo family of consoles (the Nintendo Switch 2), in a complete edition that gives fans access to the Overture DLC. It’s coming on August 6.
Devil May Cry 5 Devil Hunter Edition
This Nintendo Direct has been one for the ports, as now Devil May Cry 5 Devil Hunter Edition is coming to the Nintendo Switch 2. Additional content is coming to the Switch 2 edition, and it’s coming on June 23.
Muramasa: Revenant Blades
Behold the legend of the Demon Blades, first released on the Wii U, then ported over to the PlayStation Vita. Now, fans can experience this ARPG title from Vanillaware on a modern console. Muramasa: Revenant Blades is coming early 2027.
Xenoblade Chronicles for Nintendo Switch 2
A gratuitous amount of quality of life updates and content are coming to the Xenoblade Chronicles series of games. Xenoblade Chronicles Definitive Edition is launching later today (digital) with a physical release coming next week, and the other two Xenoblade Chronicles titles are coming soon for Switch 2.
A new Xenoblade title was then unveiled at the Nintendo Direct, and it involves students learning at an academy on how to fight against monsters. Players will face off against a god’s vengeance in Xenoblade Genesis when it launches in 2027.
Nintendo Switch Sports Resort
A new Nintendo Sports title has been revealed, and it’s coming with a whopping 12 sports. Boxing, Table Tennis, Archery, Tennis, Volleyball, Bowling, Basketball, Golf, Thumb Wrestling, Skateboarding, Power Cruising, Prop Plane and Jump Rope are coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 in Nintendo Switch Sports Resort on October 22.
RuneScape: Dragonwilds
The anticipated new entry into the world of RuneScape, RuneScape: Dragonwilds, has now been confirmed for the Nintendo Switch 2 console, allowing fans to take RuneScape on the go. It’s coming on September 15.
Hello Kitty Party Land
Allows fans to create their own character and meet 140 other Sanrio characters when it launches on both Nintendo Switch consoles on October 29.
Star Fox
The next Star Fox title (which is based on Star Fox 64) is getting a demo tonight on Nintendo Switch 2!
Final Fantasy Resonance
Fans can imagine what classic FINAL FANTASY could have become if pixel art kept evolving. FINAL FANTASY RESONANCE is the first HD-2D FINAL FANTASY title blending pixel art with dynamic camera work, and it will allow fans to summon characters from FINAL FANTASY mainline titles to help out inn battle. It’s coming October 22.
Pikuniku 2
In this zany, long-awaited adventure sequel, fans will embody Piku on a strange and whimsical mission to foil a dastardly plot. Wander, solve, and gossip your way through a charming, colourful world, and as with all great adventures, it’s the journey that counts rather than the destination. Along the way, Piku will meet many odd folk, each with a story to tell. Pikuniku 2 launches on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027.
Dragon Quest Monsters: The Withered World
A new Dragon Quest Monsters title has been revealed, and instead of playing the dark Prince, you’re playing an adventurer in this new title where Monsters take the centre stage. Dragon Quest Monsters: The Withered World is coming on December 3.
The Duskbloods
Fans were given a fresh look at The Duskbloods, a title where players can step into this new PvPvE multiplayer action game and take on the role of a Bloodsworn. Fight through a world overrun with enemies using unique weapons and abilities, while occasionally forming transient alliances on your path to victory. FromSoftware gave fans another very brief glimpse at The Duskbloods, with the promise of an open network test coming in Summer 2026.
Splatoon Raiders
The next title shown at the Nintendo Direct is Splatoon Raiders, and Nintendo gave fans a fresh look at the PvE style of gameplay, where fans play as Inklings trying to find treasure in a solo adventure in the world of Splatoon. Players are able to find and use their own playstyle! Fans should expect more details in the upcoming Splatoon Raiders Direct, airing on June 30. Splatoon Raiders is coming on July 23. Nintendo is also launching new Joy-Con 2 controllers for the new title, in a new colourway.
DELTARUNE Chapter 5
New adventures are blooming in DELTARUNE Chapter 5, a free update coming to Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch on June 24, 2026.
Metaphor: ReFantazio
Metaphor: ReFantazio is getting a Nintendo Switch 2 edition, and it’s coming onNovember 12.
Minecraft
A dedicated Nintendo Switch 2 version of Minecraft is in the works, and enhanced lighting and shadow effects will be improved. Fans can import their previous worlds from the Nintendo Switch when it arrives later in 2026.
Partner Sizzle Reel!
Nintendo Direct then blasted fans with myriad release dates for upcoming titles. Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2 and more are coming to the Nintendo Switch 2.
KINGDOM HEARTS Collection [I~III]
Three Kingdom Hearts collections are coming to the Nintendo Switch 2, and they’re coming on October 8.
Kingdom Hearts IV
A new look at Kingdom Hearts IV was then shown, giving fans a fresh look at combat gameplay in the new contemporary setting and how Sora will face off against the Heartless. It’s coming soon and will be available at launch on Nintendo Switch 2.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Remake has officially been announced for the Nintendo Switch 2 at the Nintendo Direct June 2026.
Through all the leaks and rumours, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Remake is finally confirmed! Unfortunately, there was no official release date listed during the Nintendo Direct June 2026. However, they did say it will be coming out for Switch 2 this year. Now, fans can stop speculating if this game will be coming out. This was one of the highly anticipated titles, as many knew this fan favourite game needed a remake—and enhanced for the Switch 2 no less.
Originally released for the N64 in 1998, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remains one of Nintendo’s most beloved games. This was the first time fans were able to venture into Hyrule in full 3D, where players were able to ride Link’s iconic mount: Epona. An enhanced version was released in 2011 for Nintendo 3DS, and the original is also available to play on Nintendo Switch (and Switch 2) via the Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership.
The trailer showed a cinematic explaining the origin story of Link. The graphics looked amazing, and had the famous score backing the scene of Link sleeping. The tale of the Kokiri and the Great Deku Tree told over some fabric artworks, the awakening of Link in his house at the beginning of the game, and the Triforce of Courage already glimmering on his hand.
Sadly, Nintendo ended the Direct briefly, promising to offer more details later this year. The presentation said, “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time will be reborn on Nintendo Switch 2. More details will be announced in the future. So please look forward to them.” The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Remake will release in 2026.
Xenoblade Genesis was revealed at Nintendo Direct June 2026, with no clear release date yet in 2027—along with Chronicles Switch 2 updates.
The next Xenoblade game is here! Monolith Soft announced Xenoblade Genesis for a 2027 release window at the Nintendo Direct June 2026. They showed off a lengthy two-minute trailer showing the story players can expect. Also, they noted that Xenoblade Chronicles 1, 2, and 3 will be getting Nintendo Switch 2 editions and updates. The trailer marked Genesis as a ‘new beginning’ for the franchise.
Xenoblade Chronicles Nintendo Switch 2 Edition digital version will be available later today. The physical version will be out on July 30, 2026. Xenoblade Chronicles 2 Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will be coming to digital on July 30, 2026, and the physical version will be out on October 1, 2026. Then, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will have its digital and physical release on December 3, 2026. Essentially, there will be graphics and combat upgrades within each version/port to Switch 2. But there are also new voicelines added to certain events, as well.
The trailer showed off an epic, stunning mix of gameplay and cinematics in the Xenoblade Genesis trailer. It also contained some technical improvements they made that tailored the experience of the Xenoblade Chronicle games to handheld mode. They did graphic update side-by-sides to show off all the visual improvements too. Xenoblade Genesislaunches for Nintendo Switch 2 at an unspecified point in 2027. Until then, you can see everything announced at the June 2026 Nintendo Direct here.
Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave details shown in gameplay trailer at Nintendo Direct June 2026, revealing the September 17 release date.
Nintendo Direct June 2026 featured Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave, showing off the first gameplay features and release date. Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave will be out on Nintendo Switch 2, with a special edition too. This will be the next mainline game in the video game series. The trailer showed off the dynamic battle system, which expanded on the battle system from Fire Emblem: Three Houses. Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave will be coming out on September 17, 2026.
The game takes place in the Dagdan Empire, where heroes fight in an Rome-like arena. The maps look built into the arena map. The trailer went in-depth with the combat, dialogue, and cinematics thatfans will recognize. The turn-based combat never looked better! The story revolves around four heroes: Cai, Dietrich, Theodora, and Leda. Each character has their own motivations for battling in the arena, but the player will be able to discover their synergies in battle.
The trailer blurb reads: “In the capital of the Dagdan Empire, powerful fighters gather to participate in the Heroic Games, where the winner is granted one wish. Hone your techniques at the training grounds, recruit new allies, or travel beyond Dagsion’s walls to gain experience. How you spend your free time is up to you.” The trailer ended with some talk of the Underworld, leaning into the Roman and Greek mythology elements and aesthetics.
The special edition has a steelbook, art, and the game. Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave will be coming out for Nintendo Switch 2 on September 17, 2026.
According to new reports, the Helldivers film over at PlayStation Productions has lost its star with Jason Momoa’s exit, leaving the film to replace the actor.
The Helldivers movie was announced way back in January 2025, at the Sony CES Press Conference 2025. At the time, it appeared the company was riding the hot hand produced by Arrowhead Studios; it was basically Helldivers 2 year. Earlier in 2026, Jason Momoa signed on to star in the new film, lending his extreme physical acting ability to a film that could be chock-full of action and explosions. Today, however, has spelled a different story. Deadline has reported that Jason Momoa has exited the film, leaving PlayStation Productions to find a new face for the film, as the project is still moving forward.
Helldivers started as a top-down twin-stick shooter, where players dropped onto planets to defeat the bugs and bots threatening Super Earth and Democracy. Helldivers II put players in the third-person perspective and gave players a more hands-on feel of what it’s like to be one of the combatants for Super Earth. The sequel was incredibly popular on launch, and for each subsequent game update (according to Steam Charts), players return in droves to check out the new digs that Arrowhead Studios deploys for its players. With all of the thought and popularity the title has, a film appeared to be the next step.
But now PlayStation Productions needs to find a new star with Jason Momoa’s exit. The Helldivers film is being produced by Hutch Parker, with PlayStation Productions’ Asad Qizilbash and Lin through his Perfect Storm Entertainment. PlayStation Productions and Sony Pictures have joined forces before on successful films that have adapted their hit titles (Uncharted, Until Dawn, Ratchet & Clank), so although Jason Momoa has left the film, it appears to still be in good hands.
Returning to the beloved sci-fi MMORPG title, Fenris Creations launches EVE Online: Cradle of War, bringing many new features for the capsuleers to anticipate.
As tension continues to rise between the New Eden’s great empires, EVE Online invites capsuleers to the latest expansion, Cradle of War. Kicking off the first chapter of Theatres of War, the Cradle of War expansion introduces Military Campaigns, eight new ships, Exordium Starter Space for new players to learn together in a PvP-free starter region, and more.
Launched in May 2003, EVE Online is a community-driven spaceship MMORPG, inviting capsuleers from over 7,800 star systems to play however they wish, whether they are exploring space, participating in PvP and PvE battles, or partaking in many in-game professions and activities ranging from war to trading. With the space MMORPG being 23 years old, the title features over 350 ships for players to fly, over 1,000,000 daily market transactions, and 750+ ships destroyed hourly.
The biggest feature to arrive in EVE Online: Cradle of War is the Military Campaigns, introducing visible consequences as the new system connects thousands of capsuleers into massive, coordinated wars, with every contribution playing a bigger role, including fighting on the frontlines, hauling supplies, mining resources, and gathering intelligence. Alongside battling on the front lines, those who are builders, miners, industrialists, mission runners, fleet commanders, or rookies will shape how New Eden develops over time by reshaping infrastructure, creating new stargate connections, and establishing lasting changes.
With the introduction of the Military Campaigns, the Creative Director for EVE Online, Bergur Finnabogason, shared: “Cradle of War opens the door wider for every capsuleer to leave their mark on New Eden. Military Campaigns give pilots more ways to join the war effort, while the PvP-free starter system helps new players find their footing before stepping into the wider conflict. From rookies to veteran fleets, this is a moment for everyone to pick a side, make trouble, and help swing the fight.”
Alongside the launch of the Military Campaigns, the upcoming EVE Online: Cradle of War expansion introduce many new features for players to anticipate. The new features arriving in Cradle of War are:
Exordium Starter Space – The first PvP-free starter region for new capsuleers to learn together, build confidence, meet mentors, and participate in the starter-friendly Military Campaign before setting foot into bigger wars across New Eden.
Eight New Ships – Four new Tech II Command Carriers arrive, introducing new capital-scale fleet support through command bursts, battlefield control, and stronger coordination in major conflicts. Additionally, four new Navy Destroyers are added, providing fast, affordable ships to help new and veteran players get into PvE, PvP, and Factional Warfare.
Titles and Achievements – Players can track progression, complete goals, and unlock titles to highlight the capsuleer’s identity, which showcases the pilot’s accomplishments, reputation, and role in the universe.
Vision of Greatness Epic Arc – Four defining moments in New Eden’s history return as a hyper-real simulation for each empire, providing a better understanding of the faction identities and allegiance to new players, and for veterans to experience the beloved events once again.
Theatres of War Dashboards – Players can now follow campaign goals, live progress, personal contribution, Factional Warfare activity, pirate FOBs, and other war systems from the new dashboard.
New and veteran players can play the latest EVE Online: Cradle of War today on PC via Steam and Epic Games Store. To learn more about the expansion, players can visit the EVENews.
Fans who have been awaiting Ninja Theory’s previously announced horror game Project Mara will be disappointment to learn the game has reached an untimely end.
The announcement came during an interview with Xbox Wire Editor-In-Chief Joe Skrebels after the announcement of Senua. While discussing the game’s size and scope, Ninja Theory Studio Head, Dom Matthews dropped the detail that their previously announced horror game Project Mara had been cancelled, speaking about the entirety of their 85 person studio is working on Senua, essentially leaving no room to work on their other projects.
“With the fact we have the entire team working on this game, I suspect some people might ask what’s happened to Project Mara–I took the decision to not work on that any further,” Matthews said. He continued, “These decisions are never easy, but I did so to take the opportunity to have all of the talent and expertise in the studio, all 85 creatives, working together to realize the potential of what Senua can be.”
Project Mara was initially announced on January 22nd, 2020 when Ninja Theory was working on Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II. According to Gamesradar, the game was meant to be a serious examination of mental health while blending elements of horror, “based on real lived experience accounts and in-depth research.” Supposedly, Ninja Theory wanted to “deliver a mainstream solution to help treat mental suffering and encourage mental well being,” and “recreated the horrors of the mind as accurately and realistically as possible.”
Its certainly an unfortunate development, and one can only hope that not too much time or progress was lost on Project Mara in its six years of possible development. However, Ninja Theory has found a strong foothold in the Senua series and the studio hasn’t seemed suffered any major losses despite the cancellation, with Matthews saying, “We had smaller teams working on the last two Hellblade games–Hellblade I in particular was a team of about 25 people.”
The initial excitement of the Crazy Taxi: World Tour announcement was somewhat undercut when fans discovered the game used Generative AI in its development. Now SEGA has provided some details on the matter.
According to Game Informer, who were able to get a statement from SEGA, the use of GenAI was “a support tool for developers, aiming to provide better content to our users and enable developers to focus more on creative tasks.” The statement went on to say, “Generative AI was used to support our teams during the development of background assets for Crazy Taxi: World Tour. Assets generated were still subject to review by the development team. No AI was used in reference to the performers in the game.”
While it is still somewhat vague, it does provide more insight to how GenAI was used than Crazy Taxi: World Tour’s Steam page which disclosed the use of GenAI as: “We have used such generative AI support tools during development of Crazy Taxi: World Tour. No AI was used in reference to the performers in the game,” following the same initial statement that was provided to Game Informer.
While the move is certainly controversial, it shouldn’t come as a surprise. After the publication of its Q2 financial results on December 4th, 2025 SEGA said in a Q&A session that it would invest more in using AI in game development, saying, “Rather than fully following the trend toward the large-scale development, we will also pursue efficiency improvements, such as leveraging AI.”
Despite this, fans of the iconic series have expressed some distain that GenAI would be used in a game like Crazy Taxi—whose music, gameplay and general vibe was meant to evoke a sense of counter-culture. In an announcement post by Wari64 on Bluesky, several users left comments saying “AI Slop,” to “Don’t buy,” and “they’re using genai NO NO NO NO NO,” in reference to the games iconic use of the Offspring song “All I Want.”
Crazy Taxi: World Tour was revealed during the XBOX Games Showcase 2026 with a tentative release date for 2027.
Fans of the (somewhat) cult hit Expeditions series will be excited to learn that the newest entry in the alternate-history RPG will explore feudal Japan.
While the official announcement took place during IGN Live, CGM got to sit in on a sneak peek at Expeditions: Samurai with the series’ creator and Creative Director at Campfire Cabal, Jonas Wæver. During the presentation, Wæver spoke about the new setting, some of the new features, and what went into the design of their newest entry in the series.
Apparently, one of the important things they did for Expeditions: Samurai was to “listen to the fans,” who had been requesting Japan as a setting for many years. “We want to reflect the historical realities of things even as we spin off our own fictionalized tales with our own characters, and that’s what kind of sets us apart,” Wæver said, adding, “You get to explore the wonders of feudal Japan in the unique format of our Expedition series which has a little bit of that exploration, the combat and all of the choice and consequence.”
Wæver explained that every Expeditions game begins by choosing a “person from history who travelled far and met a very different culture and situation than what they came for.” For this entry, they landed on William Adams—an English navigator who sailed on a Dutch ship to Japan in the year 1600. However, since this is a role-playing game, players will be able to “step into the shoes of William Adams and make totally different decisions as should they so choose.”
Similar to previous entries in the series and other games in the genre, Expeditions: Samurai will have a mix of real-time exploration, turn-based combat and dialogue encounters, but for the first time in the series, stealth will be a major component of the game. According to Wæver, “You can sneak around, split up your party, set up your positions for a really effective surprise attack and then when you make that initial devastating sneak attack to get into combat, everything is set up for your perfect victory.”
Not only that, but another first for the series is the inclusion of an optional full co-op multiplayer campaign. According to Wæver, the idea was to make co-op as seamless as possible and eliminate the downtime that comes from playing RPGs with other people. By using the system of “Simultaneous Combat Resolution,” which was introduced in Expeditions: Rome, both players carry out their actions at the same time, and only give the turn over to the enemy AI when they’ve both ended their turns. During dialogue, both players can converse with a character at the same time, wresting control of the discussion away from each other based on their characters’ skills.
Expeditions: Samurai will see an Early Access launch in August of 2026, consisting of “Act One” of the game. According to Wæver, Act One will have around eight hours of gameplay and be “almost feature complete.” Afterwards, the game will see two major updates—one for gameplay additions and the other for “Act Two,” which will be comprised of an additional 10 hours of quests. The 1.0 launch will contain four main story acts and roughly 60+ hours of gameplay.
The game is planned to launch on PC; however, Wæver also suggested consoles could be an option in the future. Players can wishlist Expeditions: Samurai on Steam.
After the XBOX Games Showcase, players were given a deep dive into the newest entry into the Gears of War franchise that takes players to the moment the whole story kicked off.
Gears of War: E-Day closed the annual XBOX Games Showcase in 2024 as the surprise final reveal—a moment of emotion and relief for The Coalition as the project they’d been keeping secret was finally shown to the world. In a detailed breakdown, the Coalition teamed showcased the incredible amount of effort and detail they’re putting into the series’ biggest return.
In an interview with Xbox Wire Editor Danielle Partis, Creative Director Matt Searcy said, “Showcase was super special for our team. Everybody here is such a huge fan of the series, and we poured our heart and soul into the announce trailer.” He continued, “That felt like the distillation of our creative vision for the game, it was super energizing for us.” That passion could be seen in the Direct as the team broke down their inspiration for the game, and the new innovations being added.
During the Direct, Searcy said, “When we started this project, we were moving to Unreal Engine 5. It was a new foundation with a blank slate, so we took a moment to reflect on what makes Gears so special.” He highlighted the necessity to bring together all the things both the team and the fans love about Gears of War—brotherhood, brutality, a sense of melancholic beauty—and how all of those things are perfectly captured in this singular moment: E-Day.
According to Technical Director Kate Rayner, E-Day is a story they could never tell before, because they didn’t have the technology to do it. She focused on highlight a world being delivered with an incredible level of detail with seamless large-scale environments, unprecedented graphic fidelity and richer, real-time destruction. “Starting with an empty hard drive, we literally built everything from scratch,” Rayner said, adding, “and then we tear it apart in front of you.”
Players will be given a range of dynamic movement never-before seen in the Gears of War franchise. As Searcy says, “This is a game that feels like Gears, but plays like new.” Movements are faster and more fluid, allowing players to run, slide into cover, vault over obstacles and even jump to reach new areas or give themselves strategic advantages. Combat maintains that chunky, brutal feeling that the series is known for, but with a smoother, more advanced feel that comes from the new engine.
This also allows for battlefields to be far more dynamic, featuring a larger sense of scale and much more complexity of objects and how players encounter each fight. It combines Coalition’s desire to use the city of Kalona not only for visual storytelling—as players are seeing a place that was filled with life slowly be destroyed—but also to create memorable battles that utilize a broad range of ideas.
The move to Unreal 5 also allowed Coalition to bring this heightened visual fidelity to its storytelling and world-building. Telling two origin stories, the game not only captures what is the beginning of the Locust War, but its also the formation of the friendship that would carry Marcus and Dom’s through the entirety of the original trilogy. Gears of War: E-Day begins with the two grieving the loss of Dom’s brother (and Marcus’ best friend) Carlos and goes into what is essentially the formation of Bravo Squad.
Rayner highlighted the level of fidelity in characters that exceeds anything from previous games, saying “Marcus has more detail in his eyelashes than his entire character model did in the original Gears of War for the XBOX 360.” Characters have three times more joints and over 350 facial shapes which allows them to convey a level of emotion that was not possible in any of the series’ installments. And the team highlighted the necessity of complex emotion, since it runs at the core of Gears of War: E-Day’s story.
Naturally, this plays into the game’s gore effects which is somewhat of a staple for the Gears of War series. Technical Art Director Colin Penty said, “Our new gore system means damage feels meaty, responsive and satisfying.” The new system allows players to focus on specific body parts in order to completely dismember opponents and utilize the added carnage for tactical advantages in combat. It also makes fights feel much more intense and desperate as players feel like the wrong shot can completely end their mission.
Players also saw the return of fan favourite weapons from the Gears of War series, such as the Gnasher Shotgun, Longshot Sniper Rifle and of course the iconic Lancer—all of which have been lovingly redesigned and updated in Unreal Engine 5. And of course, the team introduces some new weapons as well, like the five-round Gutpuncher Grenade Launcher, or the acid-blasting Incinerator Shotgun.
But its not just the story that Gears of War: E-Day hopes to deliver on for fans. They also acknowledged that the series has always had a strong multiplayer focus and for this entry they’re reinventing the Horde mode introduced in Gears of War 2 for a new 12-player PvE “Horde Siege,” where three squads defend Kalona across larger city maps, and even bigger foes. Gears of War: E-Day will also feature the 4v4 Versus mode, and while details were light, players can sign up for an Open-Beta weekends starting August 6.
Gears of War: E-Daywill launch as an XBOX Series X|S exclusive October 6th 2026.
Konami showed off the next sequel game at XBOX Games Showcase 2026, Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse, coming out in October 2026.
Celebrating its 40th anniversary, Castlevania finds its 26th main entry game. Konami and Evil Empire were proud to announce Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse, a sequel to Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse from back in 1989. The game may be spearheaded by Evil Empire, but Motion Twin was said to be in a consulting role as well. The two creators worked on Dead Cellstogether, and now collaborating on this next game in the iconic franchise.
The story description on the Xbox Wire confirms the game is “set 23 years after 1989’s Castlevania: Dracula’s Curse.” Then, it reveals the “new sequel depicts the growth of a young Rose Belmont–daughter of Trevor Belmont and Sypha Belnades–and marries the classic structure of Castlevania with modern enhancements, including enhanced freedom and speed, tarot-based Arcana skills, and more. Race to save a ravaged Paris before Dracula’s curse can claim Rose, and take on Death itself.” And yes, Rose will be carrying the Belmont family heirloom whip, the “Vampire Killer”, which is able to be used both as offense against enemies and for movement across large chasms and certain heights that cannot be reached otherwise.
This is a nice change of pace, having a new female lead in Rose. This almost parallels the family bonds in games and sequel games, likened recently to that of God of War: Laufeyrevealed at the latest Sony State of Play. It was nice to see some of the cool visuals from the trailer, along with the dynamic enhancements. The voiceover from Rose’s mother Sypha is heard over some of the gameplay: “God has given you another chance, Rose. You must use it wisely to better control your curse and strengthen yourself.” So, maybe it will be looking back and forward in examining Rose’s journey.
The latest installment in the series, Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse, is set to launch on October 15, 2026. It will be coming to XBOX Series X|S and XBOX on PC as an Xbox Play Anywhere title.
After the incredibly exciting weekend filled with reveals, the XBOX Games Showcase 2026 is one of the last big showcases for SGF 2026, and it brought the heat.
The XBOX Games Showcase 2026 is finally here, and Microsoft brought out the big guns on their biggest stage to showcase some gameplay developments on previous announcements and reveal some secrets, too! After announcing earlier in the month that the showcase would occur following the big Summer Game Fest 2026 opener, Xbox mentioned it would showcase more developments coming from first-party studios, and they delivered. The XBOX Games Showcase is most renowned for delivering the first teaser for Playground Games’ Fable, which immediately gathered hype the moment it was announced.
This year, the XBOX Games Showcase 2026 has its work cut out for itself. New CEO Asha Sharma said just a few days ago, “In order to be a platform, you must have exclusive content and services,” and that’s exactly what XBOX brought to the table with their 2026 showcase.
We here at CGMagazine have compiled the entire showcase for fans to check out at their convenience. Everything revealed at the XBOX Games Showcase 2026 can be seen below, in the order it was shown.
The XBOX Games Showcase 2026 opener brought civilian clothed gears into focus, as a younger appearing Marcus Fenix and Dominic Santiago appeared on-screen and locust immediately followed, coming out of the ground on Sera. This is the first look fans have received at pre-war Sera, and the infrastructure looks advanced and modern.
Throughout the entire new look at Gears of War: E-Day, a Corpser (the spider-like monster from the original 2006 trailer) terrorizes the group, making E-Holes, destroying the city’s foundation, and injecting pure terror and adrenaline into the new title. The Coalition also appears to have updated many key visuals during gameplay, including executions, and even charging a locust with a Retro Lancer feels final.
In the final firefight shown at XBOX Games Showcase 2026, Marcus faces off against a Boomer, and is saved by another gear as the Locust is sawed completely in half. Gears of War: E-Day launches on October 6 and will be an XBOX console exclusive.
The next title shown at the XBOX Games Showcase 2026 was another reveal from a first party XBOX Games Studio, and Playground Games gave another fresh look at the new Fable reboot. We are introduced to the Hero, Isabel, as she tells the nature of heroes, and series callbacks are shown, as a Demon Door can be seen calling the player obscenities in the new trailer.
Albion doesn’t need heroes; they need A hero. That hero is apparently Isabel (she cockily admits). Jack of Blades makes a chilling surprise appearance as the trailer concludes. Fable lets players become the Hero you want to be, and is launching on February 23.
This new look at the first entry in the Halo franchise returns fans to where it all began at the XBOX Games Showcase 2026. Halo Campaign Evolved is arriving with three new missions on July 28.
Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy
The next title from Asobo Studio, a brand new title in the A Plague Tale series, Resonance. Players will embody Sophia, and face deadly trials, navigate treacherous paths and uncover what was never meant to be revealed when it arrives on August 27.
The previously rumoured Persona 4 Remake has finally been confirmed at the XBOX Games Showcase 2026, and it uses similar (but better and more Persona 5 leaning) graphics to the previously released Persona 3 Reloaded. The new title lets fans revisit the fourth mainline entry in the series, without having to break out the PlayStation Vita, and it’s coming on February 18, 2027
State of Decay 3
The next announcement comes from another XBOX game Studio, and is being brought to console by Undead Labs, and it involves world-ending undead and survivors leading a resistance against them. The dead aren’t just wandering anymore here; they’re actively hunting, and in the end, it’s up to you and your team to survive the night. State of Decay 3 is officially coming in 2027.
Sea of Thieves Custom Seas Let Fans Make New Ways To Play!
In the latest Sea of Thieves update, Custom Seas lets fans create new ways to play, from obstacle courses to even King of the Hill game modes. What fans do on the Sea of Thieves for Season 20 is up to them!
The next title shown at the Xbox Games Showcase 2026 is the next title in the high-octane first-person shooting series, Metro 2039. It’s coming in February 2027.
Bad Magpie
A world premiere then stole the stage at the XBOX Games Showcase, and it features a small blue magpie and how it interacts with many things in the environment (not unlike Untitled Goose Game). Bad Magpie is coming soon.
Wo Long 2: Wings of Ember
Another world premiere followed right after, showcasing the new Koei Tecmo Team Ninja-developed title, and the second title in the Wo Long series, Wo Long 2: Wings of Ember. It’s coming in early 2027.
Join Us
In this new title, fans will have to start a doomsday cult of their very own! You can recruit followers, build your compound, customize your cult’s beliefs, and defeat enemies (and non-believers) in this 1-4 player co-op, action-packed, open-world survival experience. It’s coming March 2027.
Another new XBOX Game Studios world premiere then followed, giving fans the first look at the newest title in the Hellblade series, Senua. Senua is a Celtic warrior who is trapped between life and death in a fractured vision of purgatory, and she must fight to reach the afterlife and reunite with those she loved and lost, battling forces that threaten everything she believes in. It’s coming in 2027.
Fallout 76: Infestations
The next trailer showcased a new update coming to Fallout 76, and it’s here today with Fallout 76: Infestations! Free daily rewards will be given to players who log in daily from June 7 until June 15.
DOOM: The Dark Ages Revelations
Increasing the high-octane and bloody action up to 11, DOOM has updated its latest title and given the slayer a spear that can grapple onto enemies, alongside the Doom Slayer’s version of Captain America’s shield, giving players increased weaponry against the hordes of hell. DOOM: The Dark Ages Revelations is coming on July 7.
Crazy Taxi: World Tour
It’s time for crazy driving, crazy adventure, and crazy money! Crazy Taxi is back and going global in Crazy Taxi: World Tour. SEGA previously promised they would be making a new title in the series, and now it has been given its first look. It’s arriving sometime in 2027.
New XBOX Series X 25th Anniversary Edition Announcement
A new colourway was then revealed for the XBOX Series X in honour of its 25th anniversary, and it’s a limited-edition green coloured version scheduled to launch in November 2026.
Age of Empires IV: Raiders of the North Expansion
The new Age of Empires IV: Raiders of the North expansion has been revealed, and it’s coming inFall 2026.
Minecraft Dungeons 2
The next reveal at XBOX Games Showcase 2026 came straight from Mojang Studios, so of course, Minecraft is automatically involved. This first look at Minecraft Dungeons 2 showed the many biomes and enemies they will have to face off against in the new title when it launches on September 29.
Magicians: The Devil’s Deal
The next world premiere showed a story of Magicians and how they sell their souls to the devil. Jacob, one such magician, has been trapped in infernal torment until the devil offers him a new deal. If Jacob can escape, that is. Magicians: The Devil’s Deal is coming in 2027.
Valor Mortis
A new trailer for Valor Mortis has been shown alongside a release date reveal. It’s coming on September 24.
The Elder Scrolls Online
In the next update for The Elder Scrolls Online, players will return to a narrative steeped in thievery as the Thieves Guild is back! Fans can experience a new Thieves Guild questline in Glenumbra, take to the high seas in a new in-game event, tour Tamriel with the Prince of Madness, and encounter new challenges, mysteries, and ways to play when Season One arrives July 8!
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 World Update 22
A new update is coming to Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, and it’s bringing many new locations to the digital twin (including national parks) in World Update 22.
Where Winds Meet: Hidden Mountain
Where Winds Meet‘s new expansion, Hidden Mountain, is coming soon to XBOX. Explore a brand-new map and enjoy martial arts adventures with exciting new content, and new areas to explore.
The first look at the new Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse title was then shown, showcasing stylish platforming and massive threats the new Belmont, Rose Belmont, has to face off against. This new title is in development from the makers of The Rogue Prince of Persia and Dead Cells, and it’s coming on October 15, 2026.
Vivarium
The next title announced at the XBOX Games Showcase 2026 is a new Slice-of-life leaning title from Serenity Forge, Vivarium. Vivarium is a life-sim adventure that features hand-illustrated art inspired by anime classics. Fans can explore a pocket world to reveal its secrets and progress through a non-linear narrative shaped by their choices. It’s coming soon.
After leaks went live last week, fans have finally received confirmation that Persona 6 is happening in a small teaser shown at the XBOX Games Showcase 2026.
Spyro: A Realm Beyond
A new title in the Spyro series of games has been announced, and he’s received a complete look-overhaul. Spyro: A Realm Beyond is coming in Spring 2027.
A new title from In Exile Entertainment was shown next, giving a new name to a crime drama. In this new Victorian-style first-person title, players will have to use their environment to cause maximum mischief and succeed in their mission. You can take control of destiny and change who’s in control in Clockwork Revolution. It’s an XBOX console exclusive coming in 2027.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 and DMZ First Look
The final reveal at XBOX Games Showcase 2026 was a fresh look at Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4‘s campaign and the new extraction shooter experience DMZ. This is a brand new extraction shooter experience set in the universe of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, and players will deploy into a volatile living combat zone as an off-the-books asset tasked with recovering advanced military tech left in the wake of the modern war. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 is s advertised. Both DMZ and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 will be available onOctober 23, 2026, for XBOX Series X|S, XBOX on PC, and cloud.
That just about wraps the entire XBOX Games Showcase 2026! Fans can stay tuned to CGMagazine as coverage continues for Summer Game Fest 2026!
Atlus officially announced Persona 6 at the XBOX Games Showcase 2026.
Atlus came back with a second reveal, following the Persona 4 Revival spotlight. Persona 6 has officially been confirmed at the XBOX Games Showcase 2026. The teaser trailer showcased a graveyard full of headstones and concluded with a Persona 6 logo reveal. From a story perspective, this does not say much or why there was one big headless statue within the graveyard field. Unfortuantely, there was no release date or window revealed yet.
The Persona 6 trailer details read: “An entirely new story is about to unfold. The highly anticipated next chapter of the iconic RPG series delivers a bold, new standalone story blending heartfelt daily life and new characters with pulse-pounding, supernatural adventure. Whether it’s your first Persona game or you’ve been here since the beginning, this one’s for you.
There have not been a lot of exact details about Persona 6, but some insiders hinted at an announcement coming—making sense for the XBOX Games Showcase 2026 to be the perfect platform. The main protagonist leak was the last major rumblings. CGMagazine’s Matt Sowinski wrote about how “the main protagonist appears to be male, with a short blonde bowl cut. He looks a lot like Bebe from Persona 3, while the female character has black-and-red hair in a bob cut. There have been conflicting rumours that Persona 6 would feature dual protagonists…”
A follow-up to 2016’s Persona 5, the next entry in the celebrated role-playing game franchise will launch on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC. No release date or specific narrative direction was shown.
In one of the most exciting announcements from the XBOX Games Showcase, players were given an expansive look at Clockwork Revolution.
Players are put behind the shoes of Morgan Vanette, a rouge thief and everything from their look, skills, and choices can shape them throughout the game, and the character they’re seeing in the trailer is just one version, not the version. The trailer gives players a look at the first-person action RPG gameplay, set in the steampunk city of Avalon, with a cast of unforgettable characters, and a world that reacts deeply to every choice you make
According to Game Director Chad Moore, “When you reach into the past and start pulling threads, the people closest to you feel it first. Their lives change in ways you don’t always see coming, and the crew you come back to might not be the same one you left. Unfortunately for you, you’re not the only one changing history.”
Players were also given another look at The Chronometer, which can unlock new abilities that directly let you manipulate time. One of the new abilities showed in the trailer is “Displace,” which is a power that lets players instantly reposition certain objects. This allows create unique scenarios and allow players to really change the flow of battles. The trailer also gave players a glimpse at Clockwork Revolution’s villian: Lady Ironwood. According to Moore, “he’s been using time travel to keep her grip on power, reshaping the past to make sure her future stays exactly the way she wants it.”
Clockwork Revolutionis available to wishlist now and will be available in 2027 on XBOX Series X|S, XBOX on PC, cloud, and included with Game Pass. The game will also be available on Steam.
Ninja Theory spotlighted the third sequel to the Hellblade series, Senua, at XBOX Games Showcase 2026, revealing a 2027 release window.
Finally, the sequel is here. Now a trilogy, Ninja Theory announced at XBOX Games Showcase 2026 that Senua will be the third title in the Hellblade series. There was no reason or story hint as to why this one dropped the Hellblade from the title, or calling it Senua 3. Posted on Xbox Wire, Ninja Theory’s studio head Dom Matthews said “The title of just Senua really reflects that this is something fresh and new and different. It is a different style of game.”
Announcing Senua, a new action-adventure set in the Hellblade universe. Senua, a Celtic warrior, is trapped between life and death in a fractured vision of purgatory. She must fight to reach the afterlife and reunite with those she loved and lost, battling forces that threaten everything she believes in. The combat did look a bit more dynamic from the trailer, bringing the ability to throw weapons and attack from stealth. She will also have access to “Focus Abilities”, such as the reality-shattering skill that can be seen in the trailer.
Matthews revealed that players can use these abilities “as and when they wish, across traversal, puzzle solving and combat.” For example, that shatter skill will open up new spaces in the world, but it can also be used to push back enemies in combat.
The post provides a little more context on the game’s size, which takes place on a map “about twice the size of what we had in Hellblade 2. To be clear though, this isn’t an open-world game,” said Matthews. “It is a linear story told through a map built of interconnected locations.” While Senua is clearly set in the Hellblade world we know, it seems to be like a standalone sequel for now.
Senua is set to be released in 2027 on Xbox Series X/S, PC, and PS5.
In a fun throwback to the classic days of XBOX, a new system inspired by the classic days of the original XBOX system.
To celebrate 25 years of XBOX built alongside players, Microsoft Games introduced the XBOX 25th anniversary collection. Inspired by the look and feel of the original XBOX console, both the console and controller feature a translucent original Green design, with subtle tributes to the journey the system has been on for over two decades.
For the first time, Microsoft is bringing a translucent design to XBOX Series X, drawing inspiration from the original XBOX and “OG” Green so many players remember. The XBOX Series X25 Limited Edition respects our history, with the power and performance of the XBOX Series X, including 1 TB of storage, and a design that reflects where they’ve been and the community that’s been with them along the way.
Alongside the Anniversary System, Microsoft is launching the XBOX Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition[CL5.1] in translucent Green. From the original ABXY colors, to the timeless green, every detail calls back to the beginning, including the bumpers honoring the original black and white buttons on the original “Duke” controller. The back case and battery door are fully transparent, revealing the classic XBOX logo.
Originally launched on November 15, 2001, Microsoft’s entry into the console market radically shifted the landscape in terms of console power and unique gameplay. The XBOX 25th Anniversary console and controller will be available together in select markets as a limited edition collection in November, with the XBOX Wireless Controller X25 Special Edition also available separately. More details will be made available in the future.
Fans of the long-running post-apocalyptic FPS RPG were treated to a brand new trailer to the newest installment in the series landing on XBOX.
The METRO 2039 trailer showcased a darker tone for the game, focusing more on the conflict of humans and the regimes that govern them instead of the horrific mutants that lurk above the underground sanctuaries. Captured entirely in-game, with a blend of first-person shots and custom camera angles, fans get a first look at the Fuhrer Hunter, the man who has washed the Metro in lies and propaganda to gain the ultimate power.
Blending METRO 2039’s trademark mix of immersion, survival, stealth, violence, and horror. Everything that makes defines the series has returned. Not only were players given a glimpse of the stunning new world and bleak atmosphere, they were also treated to first look at the Shatun weapon—new breaching charge for their arsenal, as well as new items, new mutant variants, and new ways to explore or take advantage of the environment.
The Metro has been transformed by a powerful new regime and its leader, the fanatical Spartan leader known as Hunter. METRO 2039’s protagonist, The Stranger, is consumed with anger and hatred, chastising the Fuhrer for his lies and hypocrisy. As part of the Spartan Order, Hunter was a legend, a high-ranking, experienced Ranger, who swore to protect the Metro
METRO 2039will launch on February 2027 where it will launch on Xbox Series S|X, PlayStation 5, Steam and Epic Games Store. METRO 2039 is developed in Ukraine amid Russia’s ongoing full-scale invasion, and in Malta. 4A Games continues to support its homeland and team members in Ukraine in every possible way. If you wish to contribute, we can recommend the Official Fundraising Platform of Ukraine: United24: https://u24.gov.ua/.
