My first impression of the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro wasn’t particularly positive. Now, when I say ‘first impression’, I’m talking about the moment I laid eyes on the thing in a few press shots online. I suspect that some of you checking out the photos in this review might be thinking the same thing. Yes, the obvious throwback to the Sega Saturn is great, but does a controller of this design really hold any weight in the modern age?
Well, thankfully, the answer to that question is a hearty “Yes.” When the controllers arrived and I unboxed them from their translucent cases (a nice touch to add extra protection when travelling), I immediately fell in love. The coloured ‘Retro’ model in particular, based on the ‘Model 2’ Japanese Saturn, is absolutely gorgeous and a lovely homage to Sega’s Mega Drive successor.
How Dying Light: The Beast Transformed Nights to Pure Horror – Let’s Ask the Devs
Sandro Odak, Global PR Lead, Techland
More than a decade ago, the original Dying Light introduced a new and unique vision for the zombie survival horror genre: Instead of a linear, clearly defined space you were thrown into a brutal open world zombie apocalypse where first-person parkour and visceral combat are the only keys to survival. Since then, more than 50 million unique players have joined in humanity’s last fight. On August 22, Dying Light: The Beast, the third major installment in the series, opens a terrifying new chapter.
Steering the franchise back to its survival horror roots, The Beast marks the long-awaited return of a fan-favorite hero: Kyle Crane, the protagonist who started it all. We sat down with Franchise Director Tymon Smektała, Art Director Katarzyna Tarnacka-Polito, and Game Director Nathan Lemaire to learn more about what awaits players in the darkness.
A Return to Survival Horror
After the release of Dying Light 2: Stay Human, a common piece of community feedback was about the shift in tone. Franchise Director Tymon Smektała addresses this head-on.
“We heard our fans,” Smektała says. “While we are proud of Dying Light 2, I can admit that perhaps it wasn’t as scary as the first game. We lost some of that oppressive, terrifying atmosphere that made the original so special. With The Beast, our number one goal was to bring back the fear. We want players to feel genuine dread when the sun goes down.”
Night in Dying Light: The Beast is a fundamentally different experience. Once darkness falls, you are no longer the hunter; you are the prey. Your in-game watch isn’t just a cosmetic detail – it’s a lifeline. You’ll need to check it constantly, as being caught in the open after sunset, far from a safe zone, means you’re in the territory of the Volatiles. Your only options are to run, hide, or fight for your life.
“Night is truly pitch black,” explains Game Director Nathan Lemaire. “Imagine you’re alone in the woods, surrounded by unsettling noises. Your flashlight only illuminates a few meters ahead, leaving the rest of the screen dark. You have to constantly look around, guessing what lurks in the shadows. This completely changes the dynamic. Every step is fraught with tension. It’s pure survival horror.”
The developers are focused on creating suspense rather than overwhelming players with enemies. “We’re very deliberate with when and how many zombies we spawn,” says Smektała. “We want you on the edge of your seat. Sometimes, the absence of an enemy, paired with their terrifying sounds, can be just as scary as fighting them.”
The Beast Within
Kyle Crane, the hero from the original Dying Light, returns to fight a battle on two fronts: against the monsters outside and the beast within. After being infected at the end of Dying Light: The Following and experimented on for years, his DNA has been spliced with viral strains.
This internal struggle manifests as a new gameplay mechanic. Players can tap into Kyle’s Beast-like powers for brief, violent outbursts, allowing them to tear through zombies with savage force. But this power is fleeting. At the start of the game, Kyle barely has control over it. After a few precious moments of brutal power, you must return to the shadows, where parkour and stealth are once again your keys to survival.
“Don’t mistake the Beast-like powers for a god mode,” Smektała clarifies. “It’s rewarding and fun, but your most important weapon is still your brain.”
A Calculated Arsenal
Another major change is the reintroduction of firearms, a feature with a complicated history in the series. This time, their inclusion has been carefully balanced.
“The original Dying Light had firearms, but the focus was on melee,” Smektała recalls. “Fans loved the melee so much that for Dying Light 2, we launched without guns. The first piece of feedback we got? ‘Where are the guns?!’ This time, we want to do it right from the beginning.”
In Dying Light: The Beast, firearms are integrated early on, and for the first time, enemy NPCs will also wield them. However, this isn’t a run-and-gun shooter. “Ammo and resources are scarce in Castor Woods,” Lemaire notes. “You’ll have to look around in the world and loot them in world. More importantly, firing a gun is loud. It might solve your immediate problem, but it will attract more enemies. It creates a new strategic layer: do you use a precious bullet for a quick, noisy kill, or stick to stealth and melee?”
This risk-reward philosophy extends to the new driveable 4×4 trucks. They offer transportation but consume fuel, break down, and attract unwanted attention – a dangerous combination when night is falling.
The Beauty of a Decaying World
This terrifying experience unfolds in the Castor Woods valley, a dense, atmospheric, and entirely new open world. At its center is an old town built on a slope, a parkour paradise full of verticality. Beyond the city lie diverse biomes, including a national park, forests, swamps, farmlands, and mountains, as well as industrial zones and small villages.
“For Castor Woods, we made a conscious decision to handcraft the world instead of using procedural tools,” says Art Director Katarzyna Tarnacka-Polito. “Every room, every abandoned campsite – everything has been placed by our artists. This allows us to control the atmosphere and create a world that feels grounded and full of history. It’s our most beautiful, and most terrifying, environment yet.”
The team focused on density over sheer size, promising that every square inch of the map holds challenges, secrets, or gameplay opportunities. This design is enhanced by major technical improvements.
“Not only are we bringing back the dynamic day-and-night cycle, but we’re also introducing dynamic weather systems,” Tarnacka-Polito adds. “From sun and rain to fog and all-out storms, the world feels more alive than ever. This is enhanced by new lighting systems and elemental effects that impact gameplay.”
When it rains, roads become slippery, affecting vehicle handling. Water can extinguish flames you’ve used on enemies, while electricity becomes even more lethal in wet conditions. This combination of curated design and systemic chaos promises to deliver the unscripted, heart-pounding moments the series is known for.
Built Together With Community
Everything you’ve read about today – the return to scarier nights, a beloved but changed hero, the handcrafted world of Castor Woods – is a direct result of the dialogue we have with you – the players! Dying Light is what it is because of our community. We are pouring all of our passion into making The Beast an unforgettable journey.
From all of us at the studio, we truly can’t wait for you to finally make your own trip to Castor Woods: Dying Light: The Beast releases on August 22, 2025 and if you pre-order now, you’ll get the Hero of Harran Bundle on top – a set of items that won’t just help you in Castor Woods, but also honors the legacy of the Dying Light franchise. Good night and good luck out there!
**Important: Anyone who purchased the Ultimate Edition of Dying Light 2 Stay Human will receive Dying Light: The Beast at no additional charge.**
Pre-order the Standard Edition now to get the exclusive Hero of Harran Bundle, which contains:
– Ultimate Survivor Outfit
– Harran Combat Knife (+ Upgradable Blueprint)
– The Follower Crossbow (+ Upgradable Blueprint)
– In Jade’s Memory Pistol (+ Upgradable Blueprint)
– Castor Woods Patrol
You are Kyle Crane. After being captured by the Baron and enduring his painful experiments for years, you escape. But the scars remain. Left on the edge of humanity with both human and zombie DNA, you struggle to control your inner beast and the conflict that comes with it. But you’ll need to, if you want to get your revenge on the man who did this to you. A unique blend of open world and action survival horror, Dying Light: The Beast is set in the beautiful, yet dangerous valley of Castor Woods that’s now overrun with zombies rather than tourists. To take your former captor down, you’ll need to form fragile alliances, as well as utilize all the combat and traversal options in your arsenal. But be careful: out here, each step is a fight for survival, especially once the sun sets and the tension heightens as the true horrors come out at night!
Half Beast, Half Survivor
Become Kyle Crane, a unique hero with DNA of a survivor… and a beast. Switch between two playstyles and experience a fierce inner conflict between man and monster, leading to the ultimate embrace of unstoppable strength.
Primal Brutality
Take the raw savagery of Dying Light’s combat to the extreme and push brutality beyond human limits as you crush skulls, rip heads off, and tear enemies in half struggling to control the hero’s constantly evolving, rage fueled, beast-like powers.
Own the day, fear the night
A signature of the Dying Light series – two vastly different experiences of day and night merge into one unforgettable whole. Scavenge and explore by day, mindful of the constant tension of the moving clock – as when the sun sets, the night unleashes horrors that leave you with only three choices: run, hide, or fight for your life.
Run the Rooftops, Rule the Roads
Feel the rush of best-in-class first-person parkour as you jump from rooftop to rooftop and climb over any obstacle using a movement system accessible to all, yet rewarding those who master it. Then take the wheel of an off-road vehicle and plow through hordes of zombies enjoying unparalleled freedom of open world traversal.
Beautiful Zombie Apocalypse
Breathtaking next-gen visuals bring the handcrafted zombie apocalypse to life, where every detail tells a story of survival. Get lost in the majesty of Swiss-Alps inspired valley of Castor Woods with various biomes – tourist town, industrial area, national park, farm fields, swamps – full of beauty… and decay.
Share the adventure
Band together in up to 4-player co-op to take on the dangers of Castor Woods, where every fight, every discovery and every twisting step of the story can be faced as a group. Use shared progression to conquer the entire adventure side by side, as you face relentless enemies, scavenge for resources and save each other from the brink of death.
Hey, everybody! Kristen, Tim, and I are back this week to discuss the Ghost of Yōtei State of Play that featured an in-depth look at gameplay, the moral ramifications of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s ending, and our current gaming adventures.
Stuff We Talked About
Next week’s release highlights:
Monument Valley 3 | PS5, PS4
Wildgate | PS5
Wheel World | PS5
Killing Floor 3 | PS5
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers | PS5
Ghost of Yōtei State of Play — A gameplay deep dive with over 20 minutes of new footage, modes, and two new hardware bundles.
Bye Sweet Carole — Reveals the new mysterious character “The French” and the inspirations for this narrative-horror title that features hand-drawn visuals.
Killing Floor 3 — A look at the new launch trailer followed up by a grizzly Q&A with the devs.
The Cast
Download the image
Kristen Zitani – Senior Content Communications Specialist, SIE
Thanks to Dormilón for our rad theme song and show music.
[Editor’s note: PSN game release dates are subject to change without notice. Game details are gathered from press releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]
If you are in the market for new art supplies or reliable travel charging gear, today’s deals bring a mix of both. Ohuhu’s 216-color and 168-color alcohol marker sets are available at $199.99 and $159.99, both offering refillable ink, smooth blending, and included carrying cases. On the charger front, UGREEN’s 65W USB C Charger Block is down to $29.99, while the CUKTECH No.20 140W Power Bank is available for $122.99. That one packs 25,000mAh capacity with PD 3.1 fast charging and a smart display, making it a solid pick for keeping laptops and phones powered up while traveling.
Whilst this ETB is out of stock currently on TCG Player, the current pricing on Amazon is a full dollar below market value. Granted, its above MSRP, but if you want this ETB sealed for your collection or to rip it open right now, this is the going rate.
Where To Buy Japanese Pokémon Cards
Japanese Pokémon TCG booster boxes have far better odds at pulling chase cards, have far less bulk and are often half the price of English booster boxes. This also mean said chase cards are worth significantly less, but Japanese cards are far easier to get perfect grades in given they’re always busting out of booster packs in perfect condition. Want a Pokémon card collection on a budget? Go for Japanese cards.
Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Preorders
This is it, the beggining of a new expansion for Pokémon TCG. Best Buy have gone live with their preorder allocation for Mega Evolutions today, which mean Target and Walmart won’t be far behind. Here’s all the links you need and good luck trainers!
Pokémon TCG Price Updates
I can’t believe I’m writing this, but Amazon has quite a bit of sealed Pokémon TCG product for under market value. Whilst that unfortunately means it’s still way above MSRP, some of these sets are at the best prices they’ve been in the last month.
This Weeks Crashers and Climbers
Scarlet and Violet base set prices have been shifting noticeably ahead of the final sets Black Bolt and White Flare, with Psychic-type Illustration Rares like Ralts 211/198 and Kirlia 212/198 each climbing 28 percent this month while Gardevoir ex 245/198 now sits at $54.99 after a 25 percent jump. Miraidon ex and Koraidon ex are both trending upward as well, holding value around $23.99 each. At the same time several cards are sliding down as Fidough 213/198 dropped 15 percent, Armarouge 203/198 is down 11 percent, and Pachirisu 208/198 fell 19 percent. The steepest dips hit Dondozo 207/198 and Starly 221/198, now around $9.99 each after dropping 30 percent and 37 percent respectively, reflecting a market that is narrowing in on long-term playability and collector interest.
Last Weeks Crashers and Climbers
As newer Pokémon TCG sets grab the spotlight, Paradox Rift is seeing its high-rarity SIR ex cards drop in value while several Illustration Rares quietly climb due to shifting collector interest and low inventory. Cards like Altaria ex, Gholdengo ex, and Steelix have dropped between 16% and 25%, while Illustration Rares including Morpeko, Plusle, Minun, Groudon, and Iron Valiant ex are climbing fast, with Morpeko leading at a 43% increase. This mirrors earlier trends where less flashy cards gain traction as availability tightens.
MTG Edge of Eternities Preorders
Magic: The Gathering’s next set, Edge of Eternities, officially launches August 1 with preorders now live on Amazon for bundles including Play Booster Boxes, Commander Decks, and Collector Booster Boxes. Blending Magic’s iconic gameplay with science fantasy themes such as flying space whales and alien races, Edge of Eternities introduces four new mechanics: Void, Warp, Station, and Lander Tokens. Fan-favorite tribes like Eldrazi and Slivers return alongside reprints of coveted Shock Lands. Wizards of the Coast is gradually revealing more details, with a full card gallery arriving July 18 and prerelease events happening July 25 through 31, so now is the time to lock in your preorder if you want first access.
MTG Pricing Updates
It’s a bit of a mixed back for Magic: The Gathering prices this week, so it’s always worth double checking eBay before TCG Player and Amazon for a last minute bargain. Also, whoever thinks a Theros Beyond Death booster is worth north of $700 needs to have a word with themselves.
ACEFAST AceFit Pro Open-Ear Headphones
ACEFAST AceFit Pro Open-Ear Headphones are now available for $98.59, offering 22 percent off. These are designed for runners and cyclists who want to stay aware of their surroundings while listening to music. The open-ear design pairs with 40 bright LED lights for visibility at night, while a lightweight 7.8g frame makes them comfortable for all-day wear. Battery life stretches up to 30 hours, and the included charging case has a digital display so you always know how much power is left.
Ohuhu Brush Markers (216)
Ohuhu’s 216-Color Brush and Chisel Marker Set is down to $199.99. This set includes 216 alcohol-based colors plus a colorless blender, perfect for creating smooth blends and shading effects. The ink dries quickly and is refillable, giving these markers long-term use. Color-coded caps help keep everything organized and a carrying case is included to make storage and transport easier.
Ohuhu Alcohol Markers Brush Tip: 168
Ohuhu 168-Color Brush and Fine Tip Marker Set is now $159.99. This set focuses on detailed work with its brush and fine tip combination and includes 168 colors with a blend of bright and pastel shades. Like the larger set, these markers use refillable alcohol-based ink that blends cleanly without smudging. The included case keeps everything organized and easy to bring along for artists on the move.
OneOdio Focus A5
OneOdio’s Focus A5 Wireless Headphones are priced at $79.98 and offer Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation that reduces low-frequency noise by up to 98 percent. With support for Hi-Res LDAC audio, these headphones deliver cleaner sound quality for wireless listening. Battery life goes up to 75 hours on a single charge or 45 hours with ANC active. They also feature soft protein leather ear cushions and a USB-C wired mode for those who prefer a direct connection.
UGREEN 65W USB C Charger Block
UGREEN’s 65W USB C Charger Block is currently $29.99. This compact charger uses GaN technology to deliver fast charging speeds in a smaller size that fits easily into a travel bag. It comes with two USB-C ports and one USB-A port so you can charge multiple devices like a MacBook, iPhone, or Steam Deck all at once. This version features a Genshin Impact Kinich-themed colorway and offers foldable plugs for easier portability.
CUKTECH NO.20 140W Power Bank
CUKTECH No.20 140W Power Bank is priced at $122.99 with an extra coupon available at checkout. It holds 25000mAh of power capacity and supports PD 3.1 for high-speed charging on devices like MacBooks. A smart TFT display shows real-time information such as voltage and remaining battery. It also recharges itself quickly with 100W input, making it a good option for work trips or power users who need a compact high-capacity battery.
GameSir G7 Pro Tri-Mode
GameSir G7 Pro Tri-Mode Controller is priced at $79.99 today. It works across Xbox, PC, and Android, switching between wired, wireless, and Bluetooth modes using a physical toggle. With Hall Effect triggers, adjustable gyroscope controls, and swappable faceplates, this controller offers flexibility for players who game on multiple platforms. Its 1000Hz polling rate also ensures low latency performance when connected to PC or using the 2.4G wireless dongle.
GameSir Super Nova Wireless Gaming Controller
GameSir Super Nova Wireless Controller is available for $49.99 today. It is compatible with Switch, Switch 2, PC, Android, and iOS and features Hall Effect sticks and triggers to help prevent drift. It includes programmable back buttons, customizable RGB lighting, and a 1000Hz polling rate for smooth response times. You can also swap out the faceplate and customize the button layout using GameSir’s companion software.
GOOLOO 6000A Jump Starter
GOOLOO GT6000 Jump Starter is on sale for $139.99. This is not just a car jump starter but also a 27000mAh power bank with USB charging and a built-in flashlight. It delivers up to 6000A peak current to start vehicles with engines as large as 12 liters for diesel or all standard gas engines. Thanks to 100W fast charging support, it can power devices like MacBooks and recharge itself fully in around two hours, making it useful both at home and on the road.
Berserk Complete 1997 TV Series Blu Ray
I keep circling back to this version of Berserk. It doesn’t rely on flashy effects or modern polish; it’s rough, it’s grim, and that’s exactly the mood it needs. For under $40, having all 25 episodes in HD on disc feels like the easiest way to revisit it or finally get around to it if you’ve been putting it off.
Anker Nano Charging Station(100W Max)
I finally grabbed one of these a couple of months back because I was fed up with cable chaos on my desk. Two USB-Cs, a couple of USB-As, plus normal outlets all in one spot. Now I just plug everything in and get on with things instead of hunting for spare sockets. It’s just less hassle.
JBL Xtreme 3
I don’t need a speaker this loud most days, but when friends are over or I’m out in the garden, it’s worth having. It’s chunky, sure, but you get enough sound and bass out of it that nobody’s asking you to turn it up louder. Plus I don’t have to worry about a bit of rain or dust wrecking it.
39 Inch UltraGear OLED
Sitting in front of a curved OLED like this feels like moving up a level from your usual flat screen. I wouldn’t have thought 240Hz would make much difference until I tried it, now everything else feels sluggish by comparison. If I was looking to upgrade, this would be high on the list.
Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 2TB
I’ve swapped these into a couple of rigsnow, and it’s one of those upgrades where you notice the speed straight away. Big game installs or moving chunky files just don’t take as long anymore. For a couple minutes of swapping out a drive, the boost is kind of ridiculous.
Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle
Still struggling to get your hands on Nintendo Switch 2? The Mario Kart World bundle is available on Amazon right now, but it’s invitation only. Make sure to request one, you’ve got nothing to loose. Unlike most invitation only products, Amazon was quite responsive when preorder invitations rocked up, so fingers crossed this is your golden ticket.
SanDisk® 512GB GamePLAY microSD Express Card
A $35 saving on a Micro SD card is a cracking deal right now, and will come in handy whilst trying out your OG Switch library on your brand new Nintendo Switch 2. These cards also guarantee fantastic performance playing Nintendo Switch 2 games, so it’s a win-win.
Superman (2025) (4K Ultra HD Steelbook)
Superman 2025 is arguably DC movies returning back to form, not to mention Krypto being a good boy. It’s already sold out once on Amazon, so get your preorder in whilst it’s still available, I think this will be a gem in anyone’s steelbook collection.
USB Type-C to A Cable 5 pack
More than 50% off a pack of five USB a to C cables? Yes please. These are always handy to have around, and no one wants to pay out of the nose for USB cables.
INIU Portable Charger 10000mAh 45W
This is ideal for carrying around when you’ve forgot to stick your phone on charge overnight, 45W is more than enough power to charge anything whilst using it, from phones to Nintendo Switch 2. So who can argue for $12?
TCL – 55″ QM6K Series
144Hz refresh rate on a 4K HDR QD Mini LED 55″ screen for under $450? There you go, that’s all the selling this TV needs. TCL have a hell of a reputation for undercutting big brand TV names, and this deal is no different.
INIU 140W Power Bank
Need serious power on the go? INIU’s 140W PowerNova Power Bank delivers laptop-level charging with a massive 27,000mAh capacity that is airline approved. Charge up to three devices at once via two USB-C ports and one USB-A, including a dedicated 140W PD 3.1 output to top off a MacBook Pro 16″ to 59% in just 30 minutes. The smart LED display shows real-time battery status, so you’re never guessing. Includes a USB-C cable, travel pouch, and INIU’s industry-leading 3-year warranty.
Fitbit Charge 6 Fitness Tracker
The Fitbit Charge 6 makes tracking your health and workouts easier and more connected than ever, with 40+ exercise modes, built-in GPS, 24/7 heart rate monitoring, and YouTube Music controls. Link it to compatible gym equipment to see your stats live as you move. It comes with both small and large bands, a sleek porcelain and silver finish, and a 6-month Fitbit Premium membership for deeper insights. Charge 6 works with both iOS and Android, and pairs perfectly with other Google products like Pixel Buds Pro 2.
Personal Fan with LED Display
Stay cool anywhere with TUNISE’s wearable neck fan, featuring a whisper-quiet motor and three adjustable speeds up to 4100 RPM. Its 5200mAh battery delivers up to 12 hours of cooling, while the clear LED display keeps tabs on battery life and fan speed. With a foldable, adjustable-angle design, this bladeless fan is as portable as it is stylish.
9-Outlet Anker 332 USB C Power Strip Surge Protector
Simplify your workspace with Anker’s 332 USB C Power Strip, packing six outlets, USB-C 20W Power Delivery, and Anker’s signature 8-Point Safety System. It protects against surges, fire risks, and overloads while keeping your devices topped up. The 5-foot cord and compact three-sided outlet design make it easy to fit anywhere in your home or office setup. Reliable charging meets smart safety in one sleek package.
INIU USB C Charger Block x 2
Charge two devices at once with INIU’s 30W dual-port USB-C charger set. Featuring GaN tech for cooler, safer charging, each block is 30% smaller than standard chargers and comes with foldable plugs for easy travel. Power up an iPhone 16 to 71% in just 30 minutes or juice up a MacBook Air with ease. This set includes two 60W USB-C cables, a user manual, and INIU’s industry-leading 3-year warranty for peace of mind.
Yu-Gi-Oh! Early Days Collection (Switch)
I picked up the Yu-Gi-Oh! Early Days Collection for Switch and it’s been a solid throwback to the old Duel Monsters days. I grew up playing these games, so jumping back in with the ability to duel online and unlock classic cards feels pretty great. The save-anywhere feature makes it easy to squeeze in a match during a break and come back to it later. I also like that you can rewind or fast forward during duels which makes testing out new strategies a lot more flexible.
Superman (Blu-ray + Digital)
I was hoping to grab the steelbook edition of Superman but it looks like that’s already sold out. The standard Blu-ray is still available though if you’re just looking to watch the movie without the collectible packaging. James Gunn delivers a Superman story that feels fresh while staying true to the character. There’s a solid balance of action, humor, and heart, and it sets a strong tone for what’s next in the DCU. If you’re into superhero movies that keep things grounded while still feeling big and cinematic, this one’s worth picking up.
Split Fiction (PS5)
I grabbed Split Fiction on PS5 recently and it’s been a great pick for co-op sessions. We gave it a 9 out of 10 and after playing it I can see why. It focuses on split-screen teamwork where you and a partner have to sync your actions to clear each challenge. I really like how each level introduces new mechanics and switches between sci-fi and fantasy settings so it never feels repetitive. Mio and Zoe’s story adds some extra depth too since they do not get along at first but that dynamic makes the whole adventure feel more personal as things ramp up.
Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds
AirPods Pro 2 are one of those earbuds I keep noticing for their mix of sound quality and thoughtful features. At $199, they offer a strong balance of value and performance. The active noise cancellation blocks out a lot of background noise while adaptive audio automatically adjusts based on your surroundings. You get four sizes of silicone tips for a customizable fit, and once those are set they stay comfortable even through longer listening sessions. The personalized spatial audio and hearing aid features add extra depth, giving them more flexibility than just a standard pair of wireless earbuds.
DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake (Switch)
DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake caught my attention for how it brings that classic RPG feel into a modern format. At $34.99, it’s a pretty big discount compared to the usual price, which makes it an easy pick if you’ve been waiting to try it. The HD-2D visuals really stand out with that mix of pixel art and depth that makes the world feel fresh but still familiar. Battles stick to the traditional turn-based system but with small updates like adjustable speed and auto-battle, so it doesn’t feel stuck in the past. The soundtrack ties it all together with that same timeless vibe DRAGON QUEST fans already know.
The Lord of the Rings Illustrated (Tolkien Illustrated Editions)
The Lord of the Rings Illustrated Edition feels like more than just a regular hardcover. At $30.07 it is a big drop from the usual $90 which makes it a sound deal. What really sets this edition apart are the illustrations with Tolkien’s own drawings maps and sketches included throughout. The full text is printed in red and black ink and there are details like sprayed edges and a ribbon bookmark that make it feel more like a collector’s item.
Suikoden I & II HD Remastered (Switch)
Suikoden I & II HD Remastered at $48.31 for the Day One Edition is an essential pickup for JRPG fans. The updated pixel art looks sharp without losing the original style and the new environmental sounds add a little more atmosphere as you move through towns and dungeons. Fattle fast forward and auto-save features make revisiting these games more modern and easier to play in shorter sessions.
Christian Wait is a contributing freelancer for IGN covering everything collectable and deals. Christian has over 7 years of experience in the Gaming and Tech industry with bylines at Mashable and Pocket-Tactics. Christian also makes hand-painted collectibles for Saber Miniatures. Christian is also the author of “Pokemon Ultimate Unofficial Gaming Guide by GamesWarrior”. Find Christian on X @ChrisReggieWait.
I’ve only dipped my distal index fingerbone in The Necromancer’s Tale, a just-released historical fantasy tactics RPG from Psychic Software, but I can at least report back that the character creator is a gentle joy, to the point that I was disappointed to reach the end of it. True to the promise/threat of “400,000 words of hand-written narrative and lore”, it’s a hearty choose-your-own-adventure prologue that follows the protagonist’s infancy and early adulthood. Each choice you make skews the stats on the left. Might sound unremarkable of concept. Here’s why it’s stuck with me.
Square Enix has announced it will end Windows 10 support for its MMORPG Final Fantasy XIV this October.
The publisher confirmed in a statement that support will end on October 14, 2025, coinciding with Microsoft’s own end-date for security updates and support.
“You will likely be able to play FINAL FANTASY XIV on Windows® 10 systems even after the end of support,” the company said. “However, after we discontinue support, we will as a general rule no longer be able to provide support for problems arising as a result of the operating system.”
Square Enix said it may responded to requests for technical support regarding Windows 10 issues after the end of support, but this will be limited, on a case-by-case basis, and not guaranteed.
Additionally, the OS and CPU requirements for the Windows version of Final Fantasy XIV will also be updated on October 14. Alongside a shift from Windows 10 64-bit to Windows 11 64-bit, CPU requirements will also bump up.
For Minimum System Requirements, the recommended Intel Core i7-7700 (or higher) will shift to an Intel Core i5-8400 (or higher). The Recommended System Requirements are holding steady on the Intel Core i7-9700 benchmark, though.
Currently, Final Fantasy XIV is building up to its 7.3 patch, The Promise of Tomorrow, due to arrive in early August. Following on from the Dawntrail expansion, patch 7.3 will introduce a new slew of Main Scenario Quests following the aftermath of the expansion and the strange things afoot in Solution Nine.
Additionally, the next leg of Final Fantasy XIV’s Final Fantasy XI crossover raid series Echoes of Vana’diel will arrive, with San d’Oria: The Second Walk. Longtime Final Fantasy XI players (who could even still be playing to this day) will likely find some neat easter eggs and references littered throughout the new series of fights.
As for Windows 10 users, the operating system shift still seems to be an inevitable reality. If you’re still on Win10, now might be a good time to start considering your options as its end-of-support looms in the distance.
If you’re sick of being tag-teamed by Gaping Jaw & Darkdrift Knight, then I bring good news. Elden Ring Nightreign‘s next wave of enhanced bosses have now successfully RSVPed to the big darkness party. They’ll be arriving when the next cycle begins on July 31st.
Sure, that was the most logical point for a fresh rotation, given it’s when the established lot of Everdark Nightlord duos were set to disappear. Though, for whatever reason, FromSoft haven’t fully committed to a date until now. One can only assume the Equilibrious Beast was busy polishing its horns.
Remedy has outlined what’s next for its multiplayer Control spin-off, FBC: Firebreak, promising big changes.
It comes after Remedy posted a candid statement last month acknowledging “not everything had gone well” following FBC: Firebreak’s mid-June release.
FBC: Firebreak launched on June 17 as a paid game as well as straight into Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus. Calling the launch an “exciting and nerve-wracking time,” Remedy told players it had heard feedback “loudly and clearly,” and admitted “it’s clear there are features that need to improve, and they will improve.”
Since launch, the studio has released “four patches that improve the game and partly address [player] feedback. Now that the game is live, our community plays a big part in shaping the future of the experience. This is just the start.”
Remedy then warned that the speed at which it releases patches and updates will likely slow down now as it “puts more of our development focus on the first Major Update arriving in late September.”
“We’ve seen many players come into the game and leave within the first hour. And that’s because our first hour can be frustrating; you feel ineffective and confused as to what to do. This needs to be improved,” it added in an update posted to Steam.
“For many of you already playing FBC: Firebreak, us focusing on the opening experience may seem less exciting, but to keep the game healthy (and your matchmaking fast), we need to bring in more people with a better first-time experience than before.”
For this, Remedy is working on helping new players understand the Control universe and your place in it, and balancing that between players who have played Control and those who have not. Remedy thinks better “narrative onboarding” will be achieved by playing an introductory video. From there, there’ll be better tutorials to teach you core mechanics and features — as well as leaving some secrets to find unaided — and pop up tips will be introduced in the playable tutorial.
Next is gunplay – “our current upgrades can make guns feel weak early on” — so the plan is to “drop all generic upgrades from equipment and start players with a playable and powerful version of everything a Firebreak needs from the beginning.” To do this, Remedy is developing a mod system to let you tweak your weapons — expect more as we get closer to September. There’s also a big shake up for Jobs, and the content of them, on the way.
“To accomplish this, we are replacing Clearance and Corruption Levels with pre-made, exciting (you’ll have to take our word for that for now) variations of Job experiences that can still be short or long or filled with Corrupted Items, but also a whole lot more,” the team explained.
“We are weeding out our least fun experiences, focusing on our best experiences, and adding brand new modes with plans for adding even more in the future. As part of this change, we’re also reevaluating our matchmaking flow, making it clearer and segmenting player pools more effectively, to ensure more and better matches.” We should expect the placement of items like keys and ammo stations to get mixed up, too, to better keep us on our toes.
“As we hope has become clear, we are pushing a lot of improvements and changes into the game for our first Major Update,” Remedy concluded. “Some of these ideas were improvements that we weren’t able to add before launch, but all were decided on and developed based on what we heard from you (listening to feedback) and seen from you (looking at data).
“We are extremely excited about these changes and about delivering even more than we’d originally been planning, but changes now also mean changes later. We need to see what’s working for you and to hear from you again before we can be certain that we’re prioritizing the right things. So, while we are still planning on the next Major Update in the winter, and the next one after that, the specific focuses and features are a lot more nebulous. There are a variety of topics that we are discussing and researching, but for now, we are heads down working on the first Major Update.”
Despite the launch hiccups, FBC: Firebreak topped 1 million players. “FBC: Firebreak is a compelling co-op shooter that, despite its good looks, doesn’t have the depth to keep things interesting long-term,” we wrote in IGN’s FBC: Firebreak review, awarding it 6/10.
Remedy recently confirmed its plans for ongoing support post-launch, including two new Jobs (missions) coming in 2025. More updates will arrive in 2026, the developer said. All playable content released post launch, such as Jobs, will be free to all players. Players have the option to buy cosmetics, but none of these items will affect gameplay, and there will be no limited-time rotations or daily log-ins, Remedy insisted.
Vikki Blake is a reporter for IGN, as well as a critic, columnist, and consultant with 15+ years experience working with some of the world’s biggest gaming sites and publications. She’s also a Guardian, Spartan, Silent Hillian, Legend, and perpetually High Chaos. Find her at BlueSky.
“I’m not a perfectionist,” says the guy who makes niche puzzle games that turn me into a gibbering wreck obsessed with efficiency. And I feel a wave of comical fury. If like me you’ve been whirring and clicking your way through very good engineering puzzle game Kaizen: A Factory Story, you’re probably a fan of previous work from the same developers. The creators of Opus Magnum and Infinifactory may have dissolved their old studio Zachtronics and chemically regenerated as Coincidence Games, but there are still large traces of a Zach present. I caught up with designer Zach Barth to ask about perfectionism, the Factorio-like automation game he gave up on out of boredom, and how the team managed to make a story about factories in 1980s Japan feel human.
Cast your minds back to the year of our lord 2017, and you may remember we reported on how a certain Mr. Shigeru Miyamoto liked to play a pre-release version of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild by climbing up and down trees repeatedly for treats that the devs would leave for him. No, this isn’t a wind-up, and he can do what he wants. He created the series. Jeez.
Now, as revealed in The Guardian‘s interview with Bananza’s producer, Kenta Motokura, (thanks, GamesRadar), it seems “Shiggy” has an equally unique and stylish way of playing Donkey Kong Bananza, which involved simply smashing and digging instead of doing anything that would further the campaign along whilst playing a pre-release version of the game.
