Vishal Kamal has been covering video games for 7 years, writing about everything from hardware deals and new releases to esports and the business
side of the industry. He runs TheBadGamer, focused on gaming news worth your time.
A new gameplay video for Total War: Warhammer 40,000 showcases detailed battle mechanics, including a cover system, dynamic squad splitting, and destructible environments, all of which may heavily test players' graphics cards. The video highlights the expendability of Imperial Guardsmen, with a narrator solemnly stating, "These men did their duty." With an average life expectancy of just 15 hours in combat, these troops are as fragile as the environments they fight in.
Obsidian Entertainment director Brandon Adler addresses critics claiming the studio has changed following recent Xbox layoffs, emphasizing the studio's consistent "DNA" despite staff changes. Adler defends the team's composition, noting key leaders worked on iconic titles like The Outer Worlds and New Vegas. The response comes amid uncertainty after Microsoft's widespread layoffs affected several Xbox studios.
Steam is on track for its most lucrative year ever, generating $11 billion in gross revenue in the first half of 2026, driven in part by high-priced new releases like Resident Evil Requiem and Forza Horizon 6. The platform's success also stems from its thriving back catalogue and growing adoption in Asian markets, particularly China. Despite the industry's challenges, Valve's platform continues to thrive.
A Dutch consumer group is suing Sony for €400 million, arguing its 30% PlayStation Store fee is unfair. The lawsuit gained new momentum as Sony announced the end of physical discs by 2028, eliminating the second-hand market and alternative pricing. The group claims this gives Sony sole control over game costs and usage duration.
Discover the best deals of the week, including savings on RayNeo Air 4 Pro AR Glasses, a heavily discounted Nintendo Switch 2 Camera, and discounted gaming titles like Ys X: Nordics and Nioh 3. Score top tech and entertainment accessories at unbeatable prices. From gaming to home entertainment, these discounts offer something for every interest.
Ubisoft has removed its controversial claim that monetization makes games "more fun" from its latest annual report, following widespread criticism. The move comes as the publisher faces challenges with lengthy development cycles for titles like Skull and Bones, Prince of Persia remake, and Beyond Good & Evil 2. Average wages at Ubisoft are also down, sparking further scrutiny.
Fire Emblem: Three Houses, released on July 26, 2019, for the Nintendo Switch, stands as a pinnacle of anime RPG dramas, praised for its deep character relationships and engaging storylines. With multiple intersecting storylines and a focus on character development, it draws comparisons to soap operas like Days of Our Lives and Downton Abbey. Despite some criticisms, its emotional impact and tactical combat make it a must-play.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Camera, originally priced at $54.99, is now available for $9.99 at GameStop, marking an 80% discount. This significant price drop makes the camera more accessible for features like facial movement tracking in GameChat avatars, recently showcased in the Star Fox remake. Players can now consider the camera for enhanced Switch 2 experiences without the hefty price tag.
Sony's decision to cease physical game disc production by 2028 sparks comparisons to the PC industry's transition away from disc drives. Analyst Daniel Ahmad suggests this shift, driven by digital sales dominance and platform-led strategies, may face initial backlash but will likely become the new norm. The move underscores Sony's focus on maximizing revenue through its closed digital ecosystem.
Discover the 9 videogame soundtracks defining 2026, from the energetic "Arcade – Screamer" to the haunting "Blood Moon" in Life is Strange Reunion. These tracks, including contributions from artists like Poppy and Son Lux, showcase the year's musical gems in gaming. With five months left in 2026, these bangers set the tone for an exciting year in videogame music.
