Gaming update - Game news and game releases this week

[DaniloGold]

Here are some gaming-news items from the past week (or very recent) across different genres.

1. Pillars of Eternity (RPG) — Major Update Adds Turn-Based Mode

What happened:
Developer Obsidian Entertainment announced that Pillars of Eternity will receive a new turn-based mode, initially via a beta on PC (Steam + Xbox PC) starting November 5, 2025.

Why it matters:

* It gives players a fresh way to experience a well-loved RPG, appealing both to fans of real-time systems and those who prefer turn-based tactics.
* Shows responsiveness to community feedback (the success of its sequel's turn-based mode).
* Gives the title renewed life and discussion in the RPG community.



2. Pokémon Legends: ZA (Adventure / Pokémon-style) — DLC Date & New Mega Evolutions Revealed

What happened:
The upcoming DLC *Mega Dimension* for Pokémon Legends: Z-A is now dated for 10 December 2025, and initial reveals include Mega Baxcalibur and Mega Chimecho. ([Victory Road][2])

Why it matters:
* Adds fresh content to a major franchise, giving players something new to anticipate.
* New Mega Evolutions provide discussion fodder (which creatures will dominate, how the balance will shift).
* Excites both casual/traditional fans and competitive Pokémon players.



3. Amazon Prime / Free Games (PC) — 13 Free Games for November

What happened:
Amazon Prime revealed 13 PC games free to claim in November for Prime (via Luna/Prime Gaming). Titles include New Tales from the Borderlands and Fallout 76.

Why it matters:
* Free games always generate community goodwill, especially across PC gamers.
* Helps players explore titles they might not have tried otherwise.
* Gives streamers/content creators new content to cover (free titles = new plays).



4. Halo Infinite (FPS / Live Service) — Final Major Update Announced

What happened:
Developer 343 Industries announced that the update *Operation: Infinite*, arriving 18 Nov 2025, will be the final **major** content update for Halo Infinite.

Why it matters:
* A major milestone: players know the game is shifting from major updates to maintenance, which can help with community expectations.
* Signals that the devs will focus on new projects, but still support the current game.
* Gives one last "big event" to rally around in the community.



5. Yogscast Games (Indie Publisher) — Announces Two New Roguelikes

What happened:
Yogscast Games announced two new roguelike titles — *Infinity Sweeper* and *The Gate Must Stand* — both set for first-half 2026 release.

Why it matters:
* Good news for the indie/gaming-variety community: new games on the horizon to support.
* Roguelikes are popular among streamers and niche communities, so having new ones announced builds anticipation.
* Helps diversify the "big game" narrative; not everything needs to be AAA.

[DaniloGold]

Here's a compilation recent gaming-news items from the past week (or so).

1. Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) – Update 4.1 launching Nov 13

The Indian version of the popular battle royale title, Battlegrounds Mobile India, has officially announced the 4.1 update which is scheduled for 13 November 2025.

Includes new in-game content, upgraded gameplay mechanics and system improvements. The news has created buzz in the Indian gaming community particularly.
Mobile battle royales remain massive in many markets (India especially), so a major update keeps the player-base engaged and helps fend off competition.

2. Northgard – Definitive Edition coming Dec 4 (free for existing owners)

The Viking-themed RTS Northgard is getting a final major update / definitive edition on 4 December 2025, which will bundle in three DLC clans (Snake, Horse, Dragon) and the Cross of Vidar expansion. Even better, existing owners will receive the upgrade free.

Adds new environments (Valhalla biome), expanded Bifrost biomes, a digital art book, and bug-fixes. The studio says it's a "send-off" update.
RTS fans often see updates disappear once games age; this is a positive gesture by the developer and gives a well-regarded title renewed life.

3. F1 25 – Patch v1.14 ahead of Season 4

The racing simulation game F1 25 has released version 1.14 (November 7, 2025) ahead of its Season 4 launch (11/12/2025) with new features and a refreshed "Podium Pass" system.

The update starts rolling on November 10 (10 AM UTC) and includes new content tied to Season 4. Full details of the new "feature exclusive to Season 4" are yet to be revealed.
Live-service sports games benefit from clear road-maps and fresh seasonal content; this update helps keep the community engaged.

4. Pikmin 4 & Pikmin Bloom – Free updates announced for November

Nintendo announced free updates for Pikmin 4 and Pikmin Bloom in November.
The Verge

Key details:

Pikmin 4 gains a "Relaxed" mode (less enemy hostility) and a "Fierce" mode (higher difficulty), plus a new Field Camera photo-mode, and Decor Pikmin from Bloom.

Pikmin Bloom (mobile) gets Ice Pikmin starting Nov 1.
These updates improve accessibility (something more games are doing) and add new modes — broadening the audience.

5. Helldivers 2 – Update 4.1.1 with bug-fixes and performance improvements

The co-op shooter Helldivers 2 received an update (4.1.1) including a number of crash fixes, texture/asset optimisations and performance improvements.

Fixes include: crash after hot-joining a game, rare crashes when enemies fall through ground, missing haptics on controller disconnect, removing/optimising low-res textures on PC, reducing stutters during drop-in.
Keeping a live-service game stable is essential for player retention; addressing bugs and performance issues demonstrates developer responsiveness.

6. The Sims 4 – November 4 patch: 150+ fixes + free West-African themed items

The Sims 4 got a major patch on November 4 2025 that introduced over 150 community-voted bug fixes and added free content (West African items for Create a Sim/Build Mode).

Update version: PC 1.119.109.1020 / Mac 1.119.109.1220 / Console 2.23. Free content drop includes loc hairstyle, West-African themed items, and upcoming creator kits on Nov 13.
For a game with a long lifespan, large bug-fix updates and meaningful new content help maintain player interest and showcase ongoing support.

7. GeForce NOW – Adds 20+ new games in November + infrastructure upgrades

NVIDIA's cloud gaming service GeForce NOW added more than 20 new games in its November update, and upgraded its server infrastructure (RTX 5080-class) in regions such as Amsterdam and Montreal.

Games being added include Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. World Stage, Europa Universalis V, 7 Days: Blood Moons, Whiskerwood, The Last Caretaker, Voidtrain. Infrastructure improvement signals lower latency/more performance for subscribers.
Cloud gaming continues to grow in importance; new games + better performance make the service more compelling for those without high-end hardware.

8. Pokémon Legends: ZA – Update planned for November to fix known issues

The newly released Pokémon Legends: Z-A has acknowledged known issues (e.g., full Pokémon Boxes causing catch failures) and the developer announced a forthcoming update in November to address them.

Specific known issues:

If a Pokémon Box becomes full before the first Rogue Mega Evolution battle and the box menu had never been opened, catch attempts will always fail.
Some side-missions issues.
The fix update is planned (no firm date yet).
Early-release bugs can hamper player enjoyment; acknowledgement plus promised fixes show responsiveness and are good for community trust.

[DaniloGold]

Here's a compilation of gaming-news items from the past week, with some background (prehistory) and detailed context for each:

1. Nintendo Switch 2 Gets a Big Quality-of-Life Update

What happened: Nintendo released a second substantial system update for the Switch 2, adding more than just stability fixes.

Key changes:
Download improvements: you can now cancel all downloads at once, and see which games are digital vs physical from the home screen.

Virtual Game Card downloads are made easier.

Game Chat (voice) improvements: disable panning, prevent sleep mode while chatting, and maintain voice when switching between handheld and docked.

New system languages: Thai and Polish added.

Why it matters / prehistory:

The Switch 2 launched earlier this year (June), and players have been calling for more meaningful updates beyond small bug fixes.

These improvements show Nintendo is serious about refining the user experience, especially for a newer console.

Impact: Players now have better control and convenience, especially for digital-only users. The new language support also broadens accessibility.

2. Pillars of Eternity Celebrates 10 Years with Turn-Based Combat Beta

What happened: Obsidian Entertainment is launching a turn-based mode (in beta) for Pillars of Eternity on PC (Steam) and Xbox, starting Nov 5, 2025.

Key changes in turn-based mode:
Turns are based on character speed, not a fixed order.

Better handling of free actions (like swapping weapons or using potions).

Higher lethality (combat feels more tactical) + faster pacing.

Players can toggle between real-time and turn-based at any time.

Why it matters / prehistory:
Pillars of Eternity is a classic RPG from Obsidian (first released in 2015), with a strong legacy among CRPG fans.

Its sequel, Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire, already had a turn-based mode, so fans have long hoped for similar flexibility in the original.

Impact:
Opens up the game to a wider audience (especially players who prefer tactical, turn-based RPGs).

Demonstrates Obsidian's commitment to supporting its older titles even a decade later.

3. Overwatch 2 Season 19 Mid-Season Update (Nov 11)

What happened: Blizzard is rolling out a mid-season update for Overwatch 2 on November 11, 2025.

Key features:
Hero balancing adjustments to improve competitive fairness.
New cosmetic items – skins, maybe emotes.
Gameplay improvements to polish the player experience.
Players are encouraged to pre-load the update to minimize downtime.

Why it matters / prehistory:
Overwatch 2 is a live-service game and needs constant updates to keep the meta fresh.

Mid-season patches are critical: they maintain balance, address overpowered heroes, and retain competitive integrity.

Impact:
Could shake up competitive play if balance changes are significant.

New cosmetics help retain player engagement through personalization.

Preloading helps reduce disruption, especially in esports or coordinated team play.


4. Assassin's Creed Mirage: "Valley of Memory" DLC Coming (Free)

What happened: Ubisoft announced a free story DLC titled Valley of Memory for Assassin's Creed Mirage, launching November 18, 2025.

What the DLC includes:
New region (Al-Ula) and up to 6 hours of story content.
Side quests, contracts, and assassination targets.
New parkour mechanics: players can collect music sheets and play the "oud" in-game.
Two new difficulty levels, level-3 mods for tools, and a customizable "Engineer 2" skill.

Why it matters / prehistory:

Assassin's Creed Mirage launched in 2023 and was praised for returning to classic Assassin's Creed roots. This DLC adds fresh content without cost.

Ubisoft celebrating the 2nd anniversary of Mirage with meaningful content is a big deal for long-term fans.

Impact:
Good value for players — "free" story content means more people replaying or returning.
New difficulty and tool customization add replayability.
The musical element (collecting sheets + playing oud) adds cultural flavor and variety.

5. Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road Launches on Nov 13, 2025

What happened: Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road — a blend of RPG + sports (soccer) — officially launched on November 13, 2025.

Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, PS4, PS5, Windows, Xbox Series X|S.

Why it matters / prehistory:

Part of the long-running Inazuma Eleven (soccer RPG) series by Level-5, known for its mix of tactical soccer gameplay and RPG storytelling.

The game went through multiple delays: originally announced in 2016 (as Inazuma Eleven Ares), then renamed, delayed several times.

Impact:
Fans get a modern Inazuma Eleven experience on current-gen consoles.
Because it's both RPG and sports, it appeals to a broader audience (soccer fans and RPG players).

The multi-platform launch makes it accessible to many players.

6. Tamagotchi Plaza Receives New Free Update (Cake Shop)

What happened: Tamagotchi Plaza (Switch / Switch 2) added a free update on November 12, 2025: a Cake Shop, expanding gameplay and customization.

Prehistory / Background:
Tamagotchi Plaza released earlier in 2025 on Switch and Switch 2.
The game is a "virtual pet + life sim" style experience, appealing to nostalgic players.

Why it matters:
The Cake Shop update adds a fun, sweet-themed gameplay loop and aesthetic variety.
Free updates help maintain player engagement and encourage long-term play in life-sim games.
It shows Bandai Namco is committed to supporting the game post-launch, not just cashing in.

Reflection / Why These Matter Together

These updates cover a wide range of genres: RPG (Pillars of Eternity), competitive shooter (Overwatch 2), action-adventure (AC Mirage), and even life sim / nostalgia (Tamagotchi).

They show a trend: older games (like Pillars) are being revisited and modernized, while new titles (Inazuma Eleven) continue to launch strongly.

The quality-of-life improvements (Switch 2 patch) and free DLC highlight that companies are focusing on long-term value and community engagement, not just new full-price releases.

[DaniloGold]

Here's a compilation of noteworthy gaming-news.

1. Switch 2 System Update v21.0.0 Rolled Out

What happened: Nintendo released version 21.0.0 for both the original Switch and the newly released Switch 2.

Key changes:

New symbols appear on game icons to show whether a title is physical or digital.

Bulk download cancellation: players can now stop all in-progress downloads in one go.

Voice-chat (GameChat) improvements: option to disable audio panning, prevent console from sleeping mid-chat, and sustain chat when switching between docked/handheld modes.

New accessibility and audio settings: added low-latency audio for Pro Controller, improved text-to-speech speed, and added Thai / Polish language options.

Why it matters / prehistory:

The Switch 2 launched only a few months ago (June 2025), so this is just its second major system update with meaningful QoL features.

Many of these changes directly respond to player feedback about download management and chat usability.

Impact:

Better usability for power users who manage many downloads.

Enhanced social experience via GameChat.

Broader accessibility with new language options and audio modes.

2. Kirby Air Riders Pre-Load Dominates Switch 2 eShop Charts

What happened: On the week of Nov 16, 2025, Kirby Air Riders (Switch 2) shot to the top of the eShop charts, driven by its pre-load.

Prehistory:

Kirby Air Riders is a revival of the GameCube classic Kirby Air Ride (2003), reimagined for Switch 2.

It was officially released Nov 20, 2025.

Why it matters:

The chart success indicates strong early demand and player excitement for the Kirby racing IP's return.

Pre-load dominance shows that many players are committed and ready to jump in immediately.

Impact:

Could boost Switch 2 adoption via a first-party title that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Sets a positive tone for other upcoming first-party or exclusive Switch 2 titles.

3. SpongeBob SquarePants: Titans of the Tide Launches Nov 18, 2025

What happened: SpongeBob SquarePants: Titans of the Tide released on November 18, 2025 for Switch 2, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.

Prehistory:

This is a follow-up to SpongeBob: The Cosmic Shake (2023) from Purple Lamp.

Why it matters:

Brings a beloved Nickelodeon IP into a modern 3D platformer / action-adventure format.

Dual-character control: you switch between SpongeBob and Patrick, which allows for varied gameplay.

Impact:

Accessible for a young audience, but nostalgic for older fans.

Likely to be a family-friendly hit on Switch 2 and other platforms.

4. New Backward-Compatibility Fixes on Switch 2 for Legacy Switch Games

What happened: Several Nintendo Switch games (original Switch titles) are reportedly getting backwards-compatibility fixes on Switch 2, according to community sources.

Prehistory:

Since launch, users have reported performance or stability issues in some older Switch games when played on Switch 2.

Why it matters:

Better compatibility improves value for people upgrading from Switch to Switch 2 — they can keep playing their existing library.

Addresses a major pain point for early adopters who want seamless performance on new hardware.

Impact:

Encourages more Switch 1 owners to consider switching over.

Strengthens trust in Nintendo's commitment to preserve backward compatibility for its ecosystem.

5. Xbox Partner Showcase Announced for Nov 20, Focused on Play-Anywhere Titles

What happened: Microsoft confirmed an Xbox Partner Preview event on November 20, 2025, spotlighting Xbox Play Anywhere (XPA) games.

Prehistory:

Xbox Play Anywhere is Microsoft's cross-buy / cross-save system for Xbox and PC — a core part of their strategy to unify the gaming ecosystem.

This comes amid community concern about Xbox's direction given declining Series X|S sales.

Why it matters:

Every game in this showcase will be XPA-certified, meaning players get to use the same purchase on both Xbox and PC.

Potential reveals from big-name publishers (IO Interactive, THQ Nordic, Tencent) may include cross-platform titles or Game Pass additions.

Impact:

Strengthens Microsoft's cross-platform strategy, potentially boosting PC-Xbox integration.

Could drive Game Pass subscriptions more if games shown are major titles.

Overall Trends

Hardware focus: Many updates center on Switch 2, both system-level (firmware) and game-level (first-party releases).

Cross-platform momentum: Microsoft is leaning into Play Anywhere, emphasizing seamless Xbox/PC play.

Nostalgia + revival: Classic IPs (Kirby, SpongeBob) are making strong comebacks on modern consoles, showing that "nostalgia sells" — especially on new hardware.

[DaniloGold]

Here's a compilation of notable gaming news and updates from roughly the past week — across genres, platforms, and the wider industry.

Recent Gaming News & Updates

1. Over 30 New Titles Coming to Xbox Next Week (Nov 24–28)

What happened: A big batch of new games — over 30 — are set to hit Xbox (Series X|S and PC) between November 24–28. Highlights include horror ("A.I.L.A"), racing ("Project Motor Racing"), and strong picks for Xbox Game Pass like Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden and Kill It With Fire! 2.

Context / Prehistory: Xbox's game drop cadence has ramped up in 2025 — especially as Xbox tries to revitalize its catalog post-Series-X launch. This batch continues that momentum.

Why it matters now: Great opportunity for Xbox Game Pass subscribers and PC players — especially if you've been waiting for something new. Good for trying across genres (horror, action, racing) quickly, and seeing which games break out early.

2. 2025 Black Friday Gaming Deals — Deep Discounts Across Platforms

What happened: The 2025 Black Friday sale is live, with major discounts on consoles (PS5, Switch 2, Xbox), games, accessories, and even retro/mini-handhelds. Some new-release games are discounted heavily, and even new hardware bundles (e.g. Switch 2 + Mario Kart World) are on sale.

Context / Prehistory: Black Friday always brings sales — but this year stands out because of a relatively large price drop on newer hardware (like Switch 2 accessories) and popular modern titles.

Why it matters now: If you've been holding off buying a console, upgrading gear, or picking up games — this is a strong moment. For gift-giving holidays or starting a new gaming setup, the savings are bigger than usual.

3. 2026 Release Calendar Reshuffled — New Headliners Emerge After GTA Delay

What happened: With the delay of Grand Theft Auto VI, the early 2026 slate has shifted — and now new top-tier games like Resident Evil: Requiem and 007 First Light are lined up as early heavy-hitters. Several other AAA and indie games are slated for early 2026 release.

Context / Prehistory: GTA games often dominate release calendars; with GTA VI delayed, studios are rearranging their strategies and players are watching for which games will fill that void.

Why it matters now: For players and streamers deciding what to follow or preorder — this shift changes expectations. Titles once seen as mid-tier may now get more spotlight. 2026 looks stronger than expected.

4. Fall 2025 "Hot 25" — The Most Anticipated Games Heading into 2026

What happened: A major "Hot 25" list was published — ranking the most anticipated games for the next 12–18 months. It includes big names like Marvel's Wolverine, Resident Evil: Requiem, GTA VI (still on list despite delay), new entries like The Witcher 4, and brand-new IPs from big publishers.

Context / Prehistory: As the industry heads into a big release window (post-holiday), many studios front-load their pipelines — this list gives a snapshot of what the community and media expect to deliver.

Why it matters now: If you like to plan your gaming schedule for 2026 — or pre-order, hype, or follow release cycles — this list serves as a valuable roadmap.

5. Industry Pressure: Layoffs & Structural Changes Continue Among Major Studios

What happened: A wide-ranging industry news piece reports that several major studios (including but not limited to those under publishers like Embracer) are undergoing layoffs or restructuring. This is part of a broader contraction trend since post-COVID boom years.

Context / Prehistory: Since 2022, the gaming industry has seen bursts of hiring (during pandemic lockdowns) followed by waves of layoffs — especially in large studios with high overhead.

Why it matters now: This affects both big releases (possible delays) and indie games (less support). For players and fans — it's a reminder that behind every game are developers whose conditions influence game quality, update speed, and support longevity.

6. New Backward-Compatibility Fixes for Switch 2 – Legacy Switch Games Getting Polished

What happened: Reports surfaced that many older Nintendo Switch games are receiving compatibility or performance fixes when played on the new Switch 2 hardware. This includes stability patches and optimization tailored for Switch 2's architecture.

Context / Prehistory: Switch 2 launched a few months ago; early adopters noted some performance and compatibility problems with older titles. Improving backward-compat is crucial for a smooth transition.

Why it matters now: If you own a Switch 1 library — this increases your incentive to upgrade without worrying about losing access or suffering performance issues. Good for preserving game value, especially for long-term players.

7. Cricket 26 Released Worldwide (Nov 19), Mixed First-Week Reception

What happened: Cricket 26, the latest official cricket game (by Big Ant Studios / Nacon) launched on multiple platforms (PC, PS4/5, Xbox) on November 19, but in the last week reviewers and players discussed its pros/cons: praise for graphics, updated weather effects and realism; but complaints about bugs, crashes, and some non-functional modes at launch.

Context / Prehistory: Cricket 26 follows Cricket 24 and promises a more realistic cricket simulation with new lighting, weather, and physics features. Fans have high expectations due to cricket's global popularity.

Why it matters now: Realism improvements are a big step — but bugs highlight risk for sports simulations at launch. Fans will watch early patches closely. For cricket fans or sports-sim players, it's a potentially strong if rough launch.

8. 2025 Xbox Partner Showcase Scheduled for Nov 20 — Focus on Cross-Platform "Play Anywhere" Titles

What happened: Xbox announced a Partner Showcase on November 20 spotlighting Xbox Play Anywhere (XPA) — titles that support both PC and Console buy-once-play-everywhere functionality. Expected some major reveals from prominent publishers.

Context / Prehistory: Xbox has been pushing XPA as a value proposition — tying PC + console ecosystem together. This showcase is part of that strategy.

Why it matters now: If you want games library flexibility (PC or console), this could be a good moment to catch up on upcoming cross-platform titles. Could shift how players decide between PC and Xbox versions.

9. Generative AI Tools & Industry Shift: Big Studios Betting on AI-Driven Development

What happened: Multiple reports from late November show big publishers and studios exploring or deploying AI-powered tools — for asset creation, NPC generation, and even procedural content. One piece discusses the risk, opportunity, and industry ramifications.
Game Developer

Context / Prehistory: As costs rise and layoffs continue, studios are looking for ways to streamline production. AI is increasingly seen as a potential — but controversial — solution.

Why it matters now: Could shift how games are made (faster, cheaper), but raises questions around creativity, labour, and quality. Gamers should watch whether AI-assisted games hold up in story, polish, and humanity compared to traditional development.

10. The Upcoming Holiday Release Rush — 2025's Strong Year-End Slate

What happened: According to release-schedule trackers and industry outlets, late 2025 into early 2026 will see many big releases across PC, console, and indie — from long-awaited sequels to fresh IPs and remakes.

Context / Prehistory: With big games delayed earlier in the year (e.g. GTA VI), many studios shifted release windows to late 2025/ early 2026. This piling-up created what looks like one of the densest release periods in recent memory.

Why it matters now: Gamers should plan ahead — tight release schedules may lead to patch-heavy launches, crunch, or delayed features. But it also means a lot of options for players across genres.

Observations & What to Watch

Cross-platform & backwards-compatibility are trends: From Xbox's Play Anywhere push to Switch 2 legacy support — platforms want to preserve libraries and player choice.

Industry under pressure: Layoffs, restructuring, and rising costs push studios toward tools like AI — could reshape game development in coming years.

Holiday surge may bring trade-offs: More games, but with risk of bugs, patches, and uneven launches (as seen with Cricket 26).

Value & affordability matter more than ever: Black Friday deals and ecosystem flexibility encourage players to buy or upgrade now.

[DaniloGold]

This Week's Gaming Highlights (Nov 30 – Dec 6, 2025)

ARC Raiders — Holiday surge + sale puts it back in spotlight

Since its October 30 launch, ARC Raiders has become one of the standout shooters this holiday season — selling nearly 7 million copies, staying atop Steam's Top Sellers chart for four straight weeks, and regularly drawing 300,000–400,000 concurrent players.

As of this week, it's on sale at a discounted price (standard PC edition ~$30.99, Deluxe ~$48.79).

Why it matters: With PvPvE action, dynamic AI enemies, and strong replay value, the holiday discount + high visibility may boost its player base even more — interesting for both new players and streamers looking for trending co-op shooters.

Epic Games Store — Free games this week

The weekly free-game rotation is live again: as always, Epic is offering at least one (often more) free PC games for a limited time.

Why it matters: For budget-conscious PC gamers, these weekly freebies remain a strong incentive to check the store regularly — often leading to hidden gems or lesser-known titles worth digging into.

Xbox Game Pass & December lineup — Many titles incoming

A new December 2025 lineup of games returning to / joining Game Pass has been announced.

With the holiday season and end-of-year traffic, Game Pass is positioning itself as a go-to option for players wanting variety without buying each title individually.

Why it matters: Game Pass remains one of the most cost-effective ways to access a broad game catalog — especially useful if you skip some of the new-release madness but still want fresh content.

New releases lined up for December — big and small games

Several high-profile titles are scheduled for release in the coming week(s), including Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, Marvel Cosmic Invasion, and others.

December promises to be one of the most content-packed months of the year, with offerings across genres: action, RPG, horror, indie, and more.

Why it matters: Great time to revisit wishlists or explore new genres — the breadth of releases gives wide options, especially for holiday gaming binges.

Steam demands AI-use disclosures — sparks debate

Steam has implemented a new policy requiring developers to disclose if they used generative AI (art, writing, code) in creating games.

The move has stirred controversy: some support transparency to inform buyers, others (including some developers/publishers) argue the disclosures are impractical and may stigmatize legitimate uses of AI.

Why it matters: As AI-assisted development becomes more common, this policy could influence how games are made, marketed, and reviewed — and may affect consumer trust or expectations around "handcrafted vs AI-generated" content.

PC / Cloud Gaming: New titles & services update on GeForce NOW

GeForce NOW added a batch of ~30 games this week to its streaming catalog, including heavy-hitters and holiday-friendly titles.

Members get a discounted holiday promo on premium subscription plans too.

Why it matters: For players without high-end hardware (or who prefer flexibility), this expansion makes cloud gaming more appealing — especially as a way to quickly play new releases without big installs or upgrades.

Grounded 2 — December Update adds holiday content & performance boost

The new patch brings festive decorations, a "Coziness System" for base-building (chimneys, hearths, etc.), and improved visuals via DLSS/FSR on PC.

Several bug-fixes, UI, performance, and localization improvements are included.

Why it matters: A nice refresh for early-access players — especially useful if you like base-building and cooperative survival games. Better performance and visuals make it more stable and enjoyable.

Anticipation Builds: Big Holiday & Early-December Release Rush

With the Black Friday / Cyber Monday sales done, many players and studios are shifting focus: December 1–7 has clustering of major game releases, updates, and seasonal content rolls.

This makes now a strategic moment to buy, try free games, or start new titles before the year ends.

Why it matters: If you want to catch a full library refresh — or avoid the usual "game overload" in January — December might be the best time to dive in.

Industry Pulse & What to Watch Next

Between release waves, platform updates (Steam's AI disclosures, GeForce NOW expansion), and live-service games receiving seasonal content — the industry seems focused on flexibility, transparency, and content volume as 2025 winds down.

For players: this means lots of options — but also the need to pick wisely (sales, free games, cloud vs native, etc.).

[DaniloGold]

Here's a compiled summary of the major gaming news and updates from the past week (Dec 7–14, 2025) — spanning new releases, upcoming games, subscription updates, and industry reveals, with context for each story:

Gaming News: Dec 7–14 2025

1. Roblox RPG The Forge Gets Major Update (Dec 13)

One of Roblox's popular RPG experiences relaunched with fresh content this week.

The Constellation of Mining Boost update arrived on Dec 13, enhancing mining mechanics and adding new gameplay features like boosted mining power, free race reroll codes, and other quality-of-life gameplay improvements.

Why it matters: Roblox experiences thrive on frequent updates to keep players engaged — especially for long-running games where endgame progression and replayability matter. This sort of content drop helps retain active communities and attract returning players.

2. Weekly Game Releases: December 2025 (Week 50)

As publisher schedules slow down for the holidays, a handful of interesting titles are still launching.

Despite the seasonal calm, a light lineup of games hit shelves this week across PC and consoles, as part of the Dec 2025 release cycle.

Why it matters: Even in slower weeks, niche and indie titles can shine without AAA competition — making it a good time to discover hidden gems or try genres you normally skip.

3. Major December Releases Across Platforms

Several high-profile games launched in early December and are still trending this week.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, Elden Ring — Nightreign DLC, Octopath Traveler 0, Marvel Cosmic Invasion, Let It Die Inferno, and more have already hit or are rolling out across PC, Switch, PS5, Xbox, and other platforms this month.

Why it matters: A strong December slate can extend holiday playtime and drive year-end discussions in communities. Many of these games are expected to stay relevant through holidays and into competitive or completionist talk on forums and social feeds.

4. PlayStation Plus Adds Big Titles in December

Sony rolls out the December 2025 PlayStation Plus catalog with several notable additions.

Extra and Premium members will get titles like Assassin's Creed Mirage and Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty starting Dec 16.

Why it matters: Adding AAA games to subscription services increases perceived value and can bring in lapsed players or attract new subscribers — especially with holiday gifting and promotions in full swing.

5. Riot's Free-to-Play Fighter 2XKO Coming to Consoles in 2026

Riot Games confirms the multiplatform launch window for its new fighter.

2XKO, originally in PC beta and early access, will arrive on Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 in early 2026, with cross-play and cross-progression support across PC and consoles.

Why it matters: This expands Riot's portfolio beyond League of Legends and integrates its Runeterra IP into a competitive fighter — potentially drawing both fighting-game fans and MOBA crossover players.

Other Noteworthy Context from the Week
Pokémon Legends: Z-A's Mega Dimension DLC Is Live

The paid Mega Dimension expansion for Pokémon Legends: Z-A launched on Dec 10, introducing new challenges, powerful Pokémon beyond Lv. 100, and mysterious spatial distortions in Lumiose City.

Why it matters: Major DLC can revive player engagement long after initial release, and it's currently a hot talking point in Pokémon communities globally.

Nintendo Switch 2 December Releases Lineup

December continues with key titles scheduled on Switch 2: Skate Story, Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, The Rogue Prince of Persia, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension among others.

Why it matters: A strong month of releases on Switch 2 supports the system's holiday catalog and gives console owners plenty of new games during a crucial shopping period.

Mobile Gaming Buzz: New December & 2026 Titles

Several upcoming mobile games are being highlighted for the rest of December, including Where Winds Meet (open-world wuxia) and ManEater (shark-focused action RPG).

Broader lists forecast a strong lineup of more than 25 mobile games to watch in 2026, with next-gen graphics and deeper gameplay than typical.

Why it matters: Mobile remains a massive part of global gaming — both for casual players and competitive mobile communities. New entries can shift regional trends and influence content creation streams.

Industry Reveal Highlights from Game Awards (linked context)

Although not strictly between Dec 7–14, recent reveals at The Game Awards introduced upcoming games like Warlock and Highguard, setting community expectations for future discussions and hype.

Why it matters: Major reveals shape 2026 gaming conversation and fan anticipation well into the new year.

Trends This Week

Holiday release momentum: Despite the typical December slowdown, a strong mix of big and mid-tier releases keeps discussions lively.

Subscription value: PlayStation Plus additions and ongoing Game Pass rotations continue to spotlight service value over standalone purchases.

Cross-play expansion: 2XKO's cross-platform launch reflects an ongoing trend toward seamless multiplayer ecosystems.

Mobile evolution: Upcoming mobile titles point to richer gameplay experiences, indicative of the platform's growth and innovation.

[DaniloGold]

Here's a compiled summary of gaming news and updates from the past week (Dec 15–21, 2025).

Gaming Highlights Dec 15–21, 2025

 1. Hollow Knight: Silksong Gets First Free Expansion "Sea of Sorrow" (2026)

Team Cherry announced a free expansion for Hollow Knight: Silksong titled "Sea of Sorrow", releasing in 2026 with new areas, bosses, tools, and more. This marks the first major content update post-launch.

Context: Silksong launched earlier in 2025 to critical and commercial success, expanding the beloved Hollow Knight universe. The expansion's announcement has energized fans and is one of the first big DLC plans for indie titles in 2026.

Why it matters: Free expansions for indie hits are rare; offering substantial content without an extra price boosts goodwill and long-term engagement.

 2. ARC Raiders "Cold Snap" Holiday Update Now Live

The Cold Snap winter content update launched on Dec 16, 2025, adding new free permanent content, survival frostbite mechanics (players take damage in cold unless sheltered), winter quests, and new rewards.

It also includes the "Flickering Flames" event with 25 tiers of challenges and rewards, a "Candleberry Project" scavenging system, and thematic cosmetics.

Why it matters: This major seasonal update refreshes player engagement during the holidays and extends retention through January 2026. Free content and events help grow the PvPvE shooter's community during peak playtime.

 3. Netflix Announces FIFA World Cup Soccer Game for 2026

Netflix revealed it's developing a soccer video game tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup (in the U.S.) in partnership with Delphi Interactive and FIFA.

The game will be part of Netflix's gaming offerings, adding to titles playable with phone controllers.

Why it matters: This signals Netflix's growing push into high-profile, event-driven gaming content — not just casual mobile titles — and could leverage the massive global soccer audience.

 4. Nvidia Game Ready Driver with DLSS4 Support Ships

Nvidia released GeForce Game Ready Driver 591.59 WHQL, bringing DLSS 4 with Multi Frame Generation and ray tracing enhancements to games including Ark: Lost Colony, Ashes of Creation, Splitgate: Arena Reloaded, and Yakuza Kiwami 2.

The driver also fixes a key color display bug and improves general stability.

Why it matters: DLSS 4 can significantly boost performance and visual fidelity, especially for RTX-equipped PCs, keeping competitive titles smooth and visually impressive.

 5. PlayStation India Holiday Sale 2025 Announced

Sony launched a holiday sale in India (Dec 23–Jan 5) with steep discounts on PS5 accessories, VR2 gear, and top games.
The Economic Times

Sales apply both online and in retail stores.
The Economic Times

Why it matters: Seasonal sales often significantly boost hardware and game adoption in a key emerging market, and can influence gift purchases and new player onboarding.

 6. Garena Free Fire MAX Redeem Codes Released (Dec 21)

New redeem codes were made available for Free Fire MAX players (especially in India), offering free skins and in-game rewards.

Why it matters: Frequent redeem codes keep mobile battle royale communities active and engaged, particularly in regions where Free Fire remains one of the most played games.

 7. DRAGON BALL: Sparking! ZERO Patch Drops (Dec 15)

Bandai Namco implemented a patch for DRAGON BALL: Sparking! ZERO starting Dec 15 to enhance stability and gameplay balance.

Why it matters: Regular balance updates are critical for competitive games to ensure long-term playability and fairness, especially with an active fighting-game community.

 8. Minecraft 1.21 "Mounts of Mayhem" Update Released

Minecraft's Java Edition received the Mounts of Mayhem update on Dec 9, adding rideable nautiluses for underwater traversal, new mob variants (e.g., Camel Husk and Parched skeleton), and zombie horses.

Mojang also announced a shift to calendar versioning from 2026 (e.g., "26.1" style versioning).

Why it matters: Fresh mount mechanics and underwater traversal options expand exploration and build diversity, while versioning changes clarify update timelines for players.

 9. Monster Hunter Wilds Continues Strong Engagement Post-Launch Discussion

Monster Hunter Wilds, released Feb 28, 2025, continues trending in community discussions and guides as players explore its open-world zones, cross-platform play, and wound damage mechanics.

Why it matters: Wilds remains a front-line action RPG in player attention as veteran hunters push gear progression and Maxims of exploration, keeping Capcom's franchise in strong seasonal rotation.

 10. Steam Game & RPG News (Extra Context)

Several gaming topics trended this week:

Bungie's Marathon shooter got a March 2026 release window and new details.

Divinity: Original Sin 2 and Baldur's Gate 3 received current-gen upgrades as a "Christmas present" from Larian.

Miscellaneous Steam news included new releases (The Last Ninja Collection) and insider discussions about Half-Life 3 delays.

Why it matters: These updates indicate a mix of legacy support (expanding older RPGs on modern hardware), future AAA anticipation, and continued interest in major franchises — a healthy ecosystem across PC gaming.

 Patterns This Week

Seasonal updates & holiday content — ARC Raiders, Free Fire MAX, and Minecraft's mounts add play variety going into the holidays.

Platform enhancements — Nvidia's driver and Minecraft's versioning update signal tech improvements.

Strategic expansions — Netflix's FIFA project and free expansion for Silksong show big and indie titles evolving forward.

[DaniloGold]

Here's a detailed compilation of gaming news and updates from the past week (Dec 22–28, 2025) — covering game updates, service changes, releases, and industry highlights:

 1. PATAPON 1+2 REPLAY Free "Boss Rush Challenge" Update Launches (Dec 22)

Bandai Namco released a free content update for PATAPON 1+2 REPLAY on Dec 22, 2025, adding a brand-new Boss Rush Challenge mode where players fight through consecutive bosses using their Patapon army. This mode carries over unit HP between encounters, increasing strategic depth and replayability.

Why it matters: This update revitalizes the rhythm-strategy classic, giving both new and returning players a fresh challenge and expanding endgame goals without additional cost. It also maintains engagement for a remastered title that debuted earlier in 2025.

 2. GeForce NOW Weekly Steam Opt-Ins — 16 Titles Sign On

NVIDIA's GeForce NOW cloud gaming service saw 16 more Steam games opt into the platform this week, meaning they're positioned to join the cloud library soon — including titles like Thronefall, Fallout: New Vegas, and Tavern Keeper.

Why it matters: Opt-in signals that more games will soon be playable via GeForce NOW, expanding cloud gaming options for players who don't have powerful local hardware — especially important as more diverse indie and classic games become available.

 3. Xbox December 2025 System Updates Roll Out

Microsoft published its December 2025 Xbox update (for consoles and the Xbox mobile app) — adding features such as:

A dedicated store tab in the Xbox mobile app for easier browsing and purchasing.

Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio support for Xbox Wireless Headsets, reducing latency and improving battery life.

Several quality-of-life features like enhanced Handheld Compatibility info and expanded Xbox Play Anywhere support for ~1,000+ games.

Why it matters: These incremental system improvements enhance the Xbox experience — especially mobile app convenience and better audio support — while continuing Microsoft's cross-platform ecosystem strategy.

 4. Upcoming Switch 2 Games List Updated for 2026

A fresh list was published highlighting exciting upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 games expected in 2026, including Pokemon Pokopia, The Duskbloods, and other high-profile console titles.

Why it matters: With Switch 2 gaining momentum, this roadmap gives players insight into what to look forward to early in 2026 — indicating Nintendo's content pipeline is already gearing up for a strong year ahead.

 5. Epic Games Store Holiday Free Games – Mystery Giveaway Continues

Epic's 2025 free-games holiday giveaway continues with Cassette Beasts recently revealed as one of the mystery titles (Game 11) and SKALD Against the Black Priory as Game 12 — part of the 12-day giveaway series.

Why it matters: Epic's ongoing freebies provide significant value to PC gamers — especially during the holidays — and entice users to check the store daily for new giveaways that span genres from retro RPGs to narrative experiences.

 6. Marvel Cosmic Invasion & Game Pass Updates Patch Round-Up

Several Xbox Game Pass games received important updates this week:

Marvel Cosmic Invasion saw multiple bug fixes improving online achievements and combat mechanics.

Cloverpit was rebalanced for better accessibility.

Winter Burrow got a holiday quest and new furniture.

Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders added a third-person camera option.

Palworld: Home Sweet Home and Sea of Thieves (Season 18) also added new achievement and gameplay content.

Why it matters: Frequent updates keep Game Pass titles fresh and playable, giving long-term players reason to return and new players more polished entry points.

 7. Marvel Rivals Recognized in Top 2025 Games Lists

Marvel Rivals continued to receive accolades and award nominations as one of 2025's standout games, including nominations for Best Ongoing Game and recognition in awards curated by industry institutions.

Why it matters: Sustained recognition highlights the title's strong design, community longevity, and how live service games with solid post-launch support can remain relevant late into the year and into the next.

 8. Year's End Industry Recap Reports Show Growing Global Markets

Recent industry market analysis revealed that Asia and MENA gaming markets are projected to collectively reach ~$89 billion in 2025, driven by player growth and regulatory changes, with further expansion expected through 2029.

Why it matters: These macro trends indicate strong continued global demand for gaming, particularly in emerging regions — impacting where studios invest and how they localize content worldwide.

 9. 2025's Notable Game Releases Celebrated Across Media

A recap of the most notable video games of 2025 highlighted titles such as Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Death Stranding 2, Mario Kart World, and Split Fiction as defining games of the year, showing strong diversity in genres and platforms.

Why it matters: Looking back on the year provides perspective on what resonated both critically and commercially — and helps players decide what to revisit or recommend during the holiday gaming lull.

 10. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Remains a Holiday Multiplayer Pick

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, a kart-racing game with a unique CrossWorld mechanic — where tracks dynamically shift mid-race — continues to be a popular choice among players on Switch 2 and other platforms after its early December release.

Why it matters: Its continued discussion points to strong multiplayer appeal during the holiday season, especially for fans of fast-paced racing titles across generations.

[DaniloGold]

Here's a detailed compilation of gaming news and updates from the past week (Dec 22–28, 2025).

1. PATAPON 1+2 REPLAY Free "Boss Rush Challenge" Update Launches (Dec 22)

Bandai Namco released a free content update for PATAPON 1+2 REPLAY on Dec 22, 2025, adding a brand-new Boss Rush Challenge mode where players fight through consecutive bosses using their Patapon army. This mode carries over unit HP between encounters, increasing strategic depth and replayability.
Bandai Namco Entertainment

2. GeForce NOW Weekly Steam Opt-Ins — 16 Titles Sign On

NVIDIA's GeForce NOW cloud gaming service saw 16 more Steam games opt into the platform this week, meaning they're positioned to join the cloud library soon — including titles like Thronefall, Fallout: New Vegas, and Tavern Keeper.
Cloud Dosage

3. Xbox December 2025 System Updates Roll Out

Microsoft published its December 2025 Xbox update (for consoles and the Xbox mobile app) — adding features such as:

A dedicated store tab in the Xbox mobile app for easier browsing and purchasing.

Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio support for Xbox Wireless Headsets, reducing latency and improving battery life.

Several quality-of-life features like enhanced Handheld Compatibility info and expanded Xbox Play Anywhere support for ~1,000+ games.

4. Upcoming Switch 2 Games List Updated for 2026

A fresh list was published highlighting exciting upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 games expected in 2026, including Pokemon Pokopia, The Duskbloods, and other high-profile console titles.

Why it matters: With Switch 2 gaining momentum, this roadmap gives players insight into what to look forward to early in 2026 — indicating Nintendo's content pipeline is already gearing up for a strong year ahead.

5. Epic Games Store Holiday Free Games – Mystery Giveaway Continues

Epic's 2025 free-games holiday giveaway continues with Cassette Beasts recently revealed as one of the mystery titles (Game 11) and SKALD Against the Black Priory as Game 12 — part of the 12-day giveaway series.

6. Marvel Cosmic Invasion & Game Pass Updates Patch Round-Up

Several Xbox Game Pass games received important updates this week:

Marvel Cosmic Invasion saw multiple bug fixes improving online achievements and combat mechanics.

Cloverpit was rebalanced for better accessibility.

Winter Burrow got a holiday quest and new furniture.

Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders added a third-person camera option.

Palworld: Home Sweet Home and Sea of Thieves (Season 18) also added new achievement and gameplay content.

7. Marvel Rivals Recognized in Top 2025 Games Lists

Marvel Rivals continued to receive accolades and award nominations as one of 2025's standout games, including nominations for Best Ongoing Game and recognition in awards curated by industry institutions.

8. Year's End Industry Recap Reports Show Growing Global Markets

Recent industry market analysis revealed that Asia and MENA gaming markets are projected to collectively reach ~$89 billion in 2025, driven by player growth and regulatory changes, with further expansion expected through 2029.

Why it matters: These macro trends indicate strong continued global demand for gaming, particularly in emerging regions — impacting where studios invest and how they localize content worldwide.

9. 2025's Notable Game Releases Celebrated Across Media

A recap of the most notable video games of 2025 highlighted titles such as Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Death Stranding 2, Mario Kart World, and Split Fiction as defining games of the year, showing strong diversity in genres and platforms.

10. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Remains a Holiday Multiplayer Pick

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, a kart-racing game with a unique CrossWorld mechanic — where tracks dynamically shift mid-race — continues to be a popular choice among players on Switch 2 and other platforms after its early December release.

[DaniloGold]

Here's a detailed compilation of gaming news and updates from the past week (Dec 5–11, 2025) — covering platform freebies, subscription additions, new releases, esports events, and notable future titles:

1. Weekly Free Games on Epic Games Store (Dec 8–15)

The Epic Games Store continues its weekly free giveaway program, offering at least one free PC game each Thursday to claim and keep forever in your library — a great way to expand your games collection at no cost. For this week, Bloons TD 6 (a popular tower-defense game with co-op) was offered as a freebie.

2. PlayStation Plus Adds Major Titles for December 2025

Sony announced its December 2025 PlayStation Plus Game Catalog updates — rolling out new games to Extra/Premium subscribers starting Dec 16, with some available from Dec 8 already. Notable additions include Assassin's Creed Mirage, Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, Skate Story, Granblue Fantasy: Relink, Planet Coaster 2, Cat Quest III, and Lego Horizon Adventures.

3. New Xbox Releases (Dec 8–12)

Xbox Wire's Next Week on Xbox feature highlighted several new games arriving on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, and Game Pass in the week ending Dec 12:

Death Howl — a mythic deck-building adventure (Game Pass on Dec 9).

Teeny Tiny Trains — train routing puzzle action (Dec 10).

Cakey's Twisted Bakery — survival horror with bakery mechanics (Dec 11).

Sintropia: Fruits Together — puzzle co-op (Dec 11).

Too Many Santas! — holiday dating sim fun (Dec 11).


4. StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 Concludes

The StarLadder Budapest Major 2025, one of the year's final Counter-Strike 2 Major esports events, wrapped up during this period — running Nov 24 through Dec 14 with playoffs into this week. Team Vitality emerged as champions after defeating FaZe Clan in front of large live audiences in Hungary.


Why it matters: CS2 Majors are among the most competitive and viewed esports events globally — performances here influence player rankings, team funding, and the 2026 competitive season hype.

5. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Still Trending Post-Launch

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds continues to gain traction following its early December release on platforms including Nintendo Switch 2 (Dec 4). The kart-racing title's standout CrossWorld mechanic, which shifts racers between tracks mid-race, remains a talking point in racing communities.


6. Mega Man: Dual Override Announced (2027 Release)

At The Game Awards 2025, Capcom officially revealed Mega Man: Dual Override — the next mainline entry in the classic Mega Man series — set for 2027 on multiple platforms including Switch, PS5, Xbox Series, and PC. Fan-designed Robot Masters will even be included via a contest.


7. New Mobile Games Spotlight (Week of Dec 11)

Several fresh mobile games launched during this week:

Fightland — team-based 25-player strategic battles.

Spider Tanks: Cores of Chaos — 3v3 mech combat.

Bluey's Quest for the Gold Pen — puzzle adventure in a beloved TV universe.


Why it matters: Mobile continues to be a vibrant platform with a broad mix of competitive, chaotic, and family-friendly titles — giving casual and core mobile gamers something new to enjoy.

8. League of Legends 2025 World Championship's Legacy

While the LoL World Championship final itself wrapped earlier (Nov 9), ongoing discussions and community stats continued this week, showcasing the World Championship where T1 secured their third consecutive title under the new competitive calendar, highlighting the shifting structure of Riot's esports ecosystem.


Weekly Trends

Subscription value expanding: Both PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass are adding a variety of titles — from fresh indie games to major AAA — keeping players engaged even outside big release windows.

Free giveaways attracting attention: Epic Games Store's weekly freebies remain a staple for PC gamers looking for new content at no cost.

Esports and competitive play stay strong: Big events like CS2 Majors drive community buzz year-end.

Long-term franchise excitement: Announcements like Mega Man: Dual Override and post-launch success of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds show enduring interest in both legacy and current IPs.

[DaniloGold]

Here's a compiled and detailed summary of the most notable gaming news and updates from the past week (Dec 12–18, 2025).

 1. The Game Awards 2025 Delivered Major Wins & Announcements (Dec 11)

The annual Game Awards 2025 — one of the year's biggest gaming showcases and awards ceremonies — took place on December 11, 2025. It honored the best games of the year and revealed trailers for upcoming titles.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 led the event with 13 nominations and 9 wins, including Game of the Year — a record haul for a single title at the show.

Presentations included new reveals such as Control Resonant, Divinity Next, Mega Man: Dual Override, Tomb Raider: Catalyst, and Star Wars: Fate of the Old Republic.

The ceremony was hosted by Geoff Keighley and streamed globally.

 2. Blue Protocol: Star Resonance Launches (Dec 18)

Blue Protocol: Star Resonance, the long-anticipated anime-style MMORPG spin-off of Blue Protocol, officially launched during this week for PC and mobile platforms.

What it's about:
A vibrant, cooperative MMORPG with a stylized anime aesthetic, Star Resonance builds on the universe of the original Blue Protocol, focusing on exploration, real-time combat, and social interaction with a global player base.

Why it matters:
This release adds a fresh entry to the MMO genre in 2025 — particularly for players who enjoy action-MMOs on both mobile and traditional platforms. Its launch also expands Bandai Namco's online gaming footprint.

 3. Nintendo eShop Holiday Lineup & New Releases (Dec 18)

Nintendo updated its eShop Highlights for Dec 18, 2025, showcasing new and seasonal releases — especially on Switch 2. Featured titles included:

Divinity: Original Sin 2 – Switch 2 Edition

The Rogue Prince of Persia (both Switch 2 and original Switch)

System Shock for both Switch platforms
These join other December releases and holiday sales that extend through January 11, 2026.

Why it matters:
This curation highlights how Nintendo supports both classic and new games during the holiday period — giving players a mix of deep RPGs, action-adventure, and nostalgic re-releases that benefit from Switch 2's broader audience.

 4. Xbox Free Play Days: Holiday Edition (Dec 16–22)

Xbox announced its Free Play Days rotation, giving Xbox Game Pass members free weekend access to several blockbuster titles:

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 (Zombies & multiplayer)

NBA 2K26

WWE 2K25

PGA Tour 2K25

Ark: Survival Ascended

The Forgotten City
Additionally, Fallout 76 is free to try for all Xbox users (without a subscription) through Dec 23.

 5. Black Desert Asia Major Seasonal Update (Dec 18)

The popular MMO Black Desert Asia rolled out a big seasonal update on December 18, introducing:

A new Seraph class with unique progression challenges

New seasonal quests and rewards

Twitch Drops and event-linked bonuses for players

Quality-of-life adjustments post-server maintenance.

Why it matters:
Major seasonal updates like this keep long-running MMOs fresh, giving returning and veteran players substantial new content and rewards. This also signals continued developer support for Black Desert's early-2025 audience.

 6. New Steam & PC Releases in Mid-December

Several notable games were released or spotlighted this week across PC and console platforms:

Terminator 2D: NO FATE — a side-scroll action homage to the classic film, with multiple modes and nostalgic level design.

NeverAwake Flashback — a roguelite arcade shooter expanding on its franchise with randomized runs and replay depth.

 7. PlayStation Plus December Lineup Rolls Out (Mid-Dec)

Sony confirmed its December PS Plus Game Catalog additions, effective Dec 16, 2025, bringing high-profile games to Extra and Premium tiers:

Assassin's Creed Mirage — stealth-action adventure set in 9th-century Baghdad

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty — Chinese-historical action RPG combat

Skate Story — physics-driven skating exploration

Planet Coaster 2 — simulation creativity

Soulcalibur III (PS2 classic with enhanced features)
These join early additions like Skate Story on Dec 8.

 8. Antonblast Final Major Update Released (Dec 18)

The indie platformer Antonblast received its "THE END" final major update on Dec 18:

New boss fights featuring members of the "Demon Corp"

"Lime Trials" time-attack levels

Hard Mode and Stage Rush for increased replay value

Music and quality improvements.