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.
PS5 owners are cancelling PlayStation Plus subscriptions to protest Sony's move to an all-digital future, effective for all new games from January 2028. Despite the backlash, analysts assert that the protests will not sway Sony due to the lucrative nature of digital sales. With over 120 million active users and 50 million PlayStation Plus subscribers, even a significant drop in subscriptions would barely impact Sony's bottom line.
Mario Kart Tour, Nintendo's free-to-play mobile racing game, will become unplayable after September 30, 2023, as Nintendo shuts down its servers. Since its release in 2019, the game has amassed over 100 million downloads. Players react with mixed emotions to the news.
Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced garners mixed reviews, praised for its visual improvements and new content but criticized for altering core elements. Despite its Metacritic score of 84 and OpenCritic score of 87, critics question the necessity of another remake. The game's quality is undeniable, yet it sparks concerns over the gaming industry's reliance on remakes.
Microsoft plans to make more of its top games Xbox console exclusives to incentivize purchases. Titles like The Elder Scrolls 6, potential Fallout remasters, and possibly the next Halo could skip PS5. This strategic shift, led by new Xbox boss Asha Sharma, aims to "reset" Xbox amid financial struggles and a third-place market position.
Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag Resynced is a triumphant remake that enhances the original in every key aspect. With revamped combat, improved freerunning, and a discovery-focused world map, it's a must-play. This remake successfully brings the beloved pirate adventure into the modern era.
Mario Kart Tour, Nintendo's mobile racing game, will shut down on September 29 after a 7-year run, with no offline version offered to players. The game, which initially sparked controversy with its gacha-style mechanics, contributed to the development of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe's Switch expansion pass. Players will enjoy subscription-level benefits until the shutdown.
Final Fantasy XIV is undergoing a significant server consolidation, impacting "A Realm Reborn" players. While the process aims to revitalize the community, it raises concerns about character name clashes and world transfers. Players have time to prepare before the change.
Sony's decision to discontinue PlayStation disc sales has sparked widespread criticism from gamers and retailers. The company is attempting to pivot attention towards its digital gaming ecosystem. Players express concerns over ownership and accessibility in a fully digital environment.
Discover why the Corsair TC100 Relaxed Gaming Chair, now discounted to $148.99, is the best gaming chair for under $150, offering exceptional value with its durable leatherette, perforated seat, and 2D armrests. Compared to other budget options, it strikes a perfect balance between comfort and affordability. With a 45% discount from its original $270 price, this chair is an absolute steal for its quality and features.
EVE Vanguard's Operation Avalon update transforms the game into a tense extraction shooter, drawing inspiration from Battlefield 6. Players navigate perilous planets, gathering resources while evading danger, in a significantly improved experience from its predecessors. With a public access period from July 7-20, gamers can test the revamped gameplay, including disposable warclone mechanics and crafting systems.
