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.
Star Wars: Galactic Racer, launching on PS5 October 6, combines breakneck speeds with a roguelite campaign structure, set in the Outer Rim after the Empire's fall. Players take on the role of Shade, navigating an unsanctioned racing circuit with diverse speeders and unlockable abilities. With its blend of racing, strategy, and Star Wars flair, Galactic Racer promises an exciting ride.
Sony has reportedly introduced stricter guidelines for PlayStation games, aiming to reduce the presence of shovelware titles on its platforms. This move is expected to impact developers and players alike, potentially leading to a more curated gaming experience on PlayStation consoles. The new guidelines are seen as a response to the growing concern over low-quality games flooding digital stores.
Jackass: Best and Last, hitting theaters June 26, serves as a nostalgic farewell to the long-running series, blending new stunts with a "greatest hits" approach. While the new material feels somewhat contained compared to its predecessors, the film's heartfelt sendoff and previously unseen archival footage make for a satisfying, if flawed, conclusion. With a review score of 7, it's a must-see for die-hard fans.
Valve updates Steam Machine's capabilities to 'up to' 4K gaming with FSR 4.1, amid ongoing performance and price discussions. Testing shows variable performance, averaging 50 fps in 007 First Light at 4K with FSR, compared to locked 60 fps on base PS5 and Xbox Series X. At $1,049, the Steam Machine remains an extremely niche product, with consoles offering better value for most gamers.
Catch the Amazon Prime Day deal on Kirby Air Riders for Nintendo Switch 2, now 30% off at $49.94, featuring its unique Road Trip and City Trial modes. This kart racer offers a distinct experience from Mario Kart World, with a focus on battle-oriented gameplay and a dedicated single-player story mode. Whether you're a fan of Kirby or kart racing, this deal is a steal for Switch 2 owners looking for a fun, action-packed game.
The Xbox Series S, initially positioned as the affordable next-gen option, has seen its price increase to match the launch price of the Xbox Series X from six years ago. This shift reflects broader console market trends and inflation. Gamers are now faced with a less clear-cut budget choice.
Rockstar has ignited a firestorm by launching GTA 6 preorders at a minimum $80 without showcasing any gameplay, sparking widespread criticism. Despite years of anticipation, fans are only treated to cinematic trailers and images, with some content locked behind a $100 Ultimate Edition. The move is seen as particularly brazen compared to industry standards, with even Nintendo's $80 pricing drawing less controversy due to transparent gameplay reveals.
Despite its ambitious concept, "In the Hand of Dante" squanders its potential with a languid narrative and observational aesthetic, failing to deliver on its promise of exploring the depths of Dante Alighieri's inspiration. With a star-studded cast, the film attempts to weave two timelines but ends up with a disjointed, overly long 153-minute slog. The movie's inability to coherently connect its dueling narratives and themes leaves viewers with a sense of unfulfilled potential.
Avatar: The Last Airbender's live-action Season 2, debuting June 25 on Netflix, significantly improves upon its predecessor by refining pacing, deepening character arcs, and resolving tonal inconsistencies. The season expertly blends original subplots with source material, particularly shining with its portrayal of Iroh's nuanced backstory. Despite visual and some narrative missteps, Season 2 is a compelling watch, especially for fans of the Fire Nation characters.
Discover the exclusive in-game bonuses and premium content packed into Grand Theft Auto VI: Ultimate Edition for Xbox Series X|S, from unique vehicles like the '95 Grotti Cheetah to personalized weapon variants. Pre-order before November 20 to receive The Vintage Vice City Pack and a month of GTA+. Dive into the ultimate Vice City experience with enhanced capabilities optimized for Xbox Series X|S.
