The weekend is here folks, which means it’s time to get cracking with some gaming. Before we put our feet up, however, let’s recap what’s been going on in this very quiet, unevenful week in the world of Nintendo (chortle!).
This week during the Switch 2 reveal, Nintendo reconfirmed backwards compatibility with the original system.
If you’re curious to know the reasoning behind this feature, Game File’s Stephen Totilo got a response from a Nintendo representative – explaining how it was simply the “best direction” when the Switch was already played by “many consumers”.
In Synth Beasts, you take on the role of a failed experiment – a “Synth” – who escapes from its creators’ lab on a mysterious island. While exploring the surrounding archipelago, you encounter other Synths. However, these are far from friendly, and you are forced to defeat them in battle. Upon victory, you unlock them as playable characters, gaining access to their unique abilities for both combat and world exploration.
Using your Synths in combat earns them experience points, allowing them to level up. Each Synth has five levels of progression, with unique bonuses that set them apart. As your Synth’s level increases, it becomes more challenging to earn additional experience, so make sure to frequently swap between them to maximize your team’s potential and unlock more abilities!
For example, the “Psitek” Synth can light torches right from the start. Then, once it reaches level three, it gains the ability to destroy projectiles with its fire slash – an invaluable skill for certain dungeons. However, beyond that, most of its level-up bonuses focus on enhancing combat. Because of this, it might be better to switch to another Synth in order to unlock new abilities without needing as many experience points!
Early in the game, you’ll gain access to a boat once used by the scientists and it’s yours for the taking! The Genesis Archipelago is teeming with small islands to explore hiding bonuses like extra hearts, stat-boosting items, and currency to spend in shops. If you’re not the type to comb through every corner of the map, you can skip ahead to the main islands and confront the scientists directly to take down their sketchy operations.
While the main islands feature boss Synths, many optional islands also be their home. Capturing all 40-plus Synths will be no small feat, but each and every corner of the Genesis Archipelago holds valuable rewards for those who seek them!
Explore the Genesis Archipelago, liberate the Synth Beasts, and put an end to the scientists’ sinister experiments! Synth Beasts launches in 2025 on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and the Microsoft Store.
“Crush your enemies and see them driven before you”.
The Switch 2 has dominated the headlines over the past few days, but there’s been plenty of other stuff going on in the world of video games this week.
On the Mortal Kombat front, NetherRealm revealed the official gameplay trailer for Conan the Barbarian featuring the likeness of Arnold Schwarzenegger, with the voice work apparently done by Chris Cox (the same guy who voiced Arnie as the Terminator in Mortal Kombat 11).
Genshin Impact publisher Hoyoverse has agreed to a settlement with the United States Federal Trade Commission where it agrees to pay a $20 million fine, and be banned from sellling lootboxes to teenagers under the age of 16.
In press release by the FTC, the agency announced that the makers of Genshin Impact “has agreed to pay $20 million and to block children under 16 from making in-game purchases without parental consent,” as part of a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission.
The FTC Director of of the Bureau of Consumer Protection, Samuel Levine, says that Genshin Impact “deceived children, teens, and other players into spending hundreds of dollars on prizes they stood little chance of winning.” Levine adds that companies that utilize “these dark-pattern tactics will be held accountable” if they decieve players, especially young children and teens.
The main charges against Hoyoverse by the FTC is that they allege the developer violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule by marketing Genshin Impact to children and collected their personal information, as well as deceive players about the odds of winning “five-star” loot box prizes, and how much it would cost to open a loot box int he first place.
The FTC claims the virtual currency system in Genshin Impact were confusing and unfair, and ultimately the system obscures the fact that players will ultimately spend large amounts of money to obtain “five-star prizes” and that children have spent hundreds to thousands of dollars to win them.
Alongside the fine and the ban, Hoyoverse will be required to disclose loot box odds and exchange rates for its virtual currency, delete personal information collected from children under the age of 13, and comply with COPPA rules going forward.
Looking to earn some free items and resources in Driving Empire? We’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find all of the free codes currently redeemable in the game, so you can stock up on new cosmetics and other useful resources.
Active Driving Empire Codes (January 2025)
Here are all of the currently active and working Driving Empire codes in January 2025 that you can redeem for free rewards:
NewYear2025 – $75,000
ZOOM – 2023 Fairway Zoomer
Expired Driving Empire Codes
Below, you’ll find a list of expired Driving Empire codes that no longer work and can’t be redeemed in January 2025:
THANKYOU
50YEARS911TURBO
1MILLIONLIKES
950KLikes
CARCRUSHERS
How to Redeem Driving Empire Codes
To redeem Driving Empire codes, boot up the Roblox Experience and, once you’re in, follow the steps below:
Look at the tabs next to the dollar counter in the bottom left-hand side of the screen. You’ll see icons for three tabs.
Click on the gear icon to bring up the settings tab. As you do, you’ll see the codes bar.
Input your code in this bar, being careful to make sure it’s in the right case and spelt correctly.
Click the submit buttonand you should see the resources you unlock appear at the bottom of the screen.
Why Isn’t My Driving Empire Code Working?
If your Driving Empire code isn’t working, it’s likely due to one of two scenarios. The first is that the code was inputted incorrectly. Make sure you have the code inputted exactly as it is in the Active Codes section above. You can even copy and paste codes directly from this article over to Roblox if you want to make sure you’re inputting them correctly.
The other possibility is the code has expired or you’ve already used it. If you’ve used it, you’ll get a message below the bar reminding you the inputted code has already been redeemed. If you’ve inputted it and it doesn’t recognise the code at all, it likely means it’s no longer available to use and is expired.
How to Get More Driving Empire Codes
If you’re looking to track down new codes the moment they become available, you’ll want to make sure you’re a member of Driving Empire’s official Discord server. If you keep an eye on the Updates channel, you’ll see the developers revealing new codes you can cash in within their posts. You should also follow the game’s official X account, which will publish these codes when they become available.
What is Driving Empire in Roblox?
Driving Empire is a racing game where players get behind the wheel of lightning-fast sports cars and pit themselves against other drivers online. Along the way, they can collect a vast array of new rides, customize them with purchasable parts and cosmetics, and compete in hotly contested community events. So, do you have what it takes to become the ultimate racer?
Callum Williams is a freelance media writer with years of experience as a game critic, news reporter, guides writer and features writer.
You probably already know this, but the Nintendo Switch 2 was officially unveiled to the world yesterday. And you’ve also likely noticed that we haven’t stopped thinking about it since.
The brief trailer — coming in at two minutes and twenty-one seconds — seemingly hinted at a few features while not giving away too much. We got a look at the new design, the bigger size, and what seems to be mouse functionality on the Joy-Con. But we think there’s a bit more hiding in plain sight. So, the lovely Alex and Felix on our YouTube channel have jumped head-first into the trailer and pulled out the juiciest details that might be a bit less obvious.
Hexes, Headrotten, and Havoc – The Lore of Diablo IV: Season of Witchcraft
Chelsea LeahEditor, Blizzard Entertainment
Darkness stirs in the swamps of Hawezar. Beginning January 21, the Tree of Whispers—a macabre yet essential presence in Sanctuary—finds itself under siege in Diablo IV’s Season of Witchcraft. This seventh season takes you deep into the haunting lore of Hawezar, uncovering the mysteries of the witches who guard the Tree and the sinister events that threaten its ancient balance. When power is stolen, truths are revealed, and bargains are broken. Nothing is left unscathed.
The Cries of the Tree of Whispers
Immense and enigmatic, the Tree of Whispers has stood for ages as both a guide and a reckoner. Hanging from its massive branches are severed heads brimming with knowledge—the ultimate price paid by those who once sought the Tree’s wisdom. These heads are bound to the Tree, fulfilling deals struck in exchange for power and secrets of the highest order.
But something—or someone—has disrupted this unyielding cycle. Severed Fugitive Heads, desperate for autonomy, have been stolen and scattered across Sanctuary. From this desecration arise the dreaded Headrotten—twisted monstrosities bursting with brambles, roots, and rot as they search for host bodies. These independent horrors take hold of the living, aiming to claw their way back to power. With the Tree’s influence waning, you must answer its call for vengeance. Vile forces are at play, and if balance is not restored, the repercussions for Sanctuary will be dire.
Meet the Witches of Hawezar
To aid your quest, you’ll join forces with the Witches of Hawezar, a guarded yet formidable trio bound to the Tree of Whispers. Each witch brings a distinct and potent expertise, reflecting their connection to the swamp and the Tree’s ancient powers.
Gelena: A stern leader who relies on magic tied to the psyche, mastering illusions and divination. She sees the unseen, but her strict adherence to rules keeps her grounded in chaos.
Caidin: A rogue hailing from Scosglen, balances dark humor with sinister powers. His swampborne skills create plagues and potions, but his chaotic nature is an unpredictable force of its own.
Ouna: The enigmatic youngest witch, straddles the boundary of life and death. Her eldritch magic embodies the eerie cycle of growth and decay, making her abilities both otherworldly and horrifying.
Together, Gelena, Caidin, and Ouna enlist your help to retrieve the Fugitive Heads. Yet their motives differ and their approaches clash, creating a tense alliance. Be cautious with your trust, for everything comes at a cost.
Witchcraft Powers Unleashed
Season of Witchcraft introduces an exciting new mechanic: Witchcraft Powers. Harness supernatural energy and tailor a playstyle from three distinct schools of magic:
Eldritch Magic (Fire & Shadow Damage)
Psyche Magic (Mind & Soul Manipulation)
Growth & Decay Magic (Damage Over Time & Healing)
Plus, discover rare Lost powers of Witchcraft unknown to both the Coven and the Tree. Each school of Witchcraft gives you the chance to experiment between new styles of power. Occult Gems, new Seasonal Legendary Gems, further amplify these Witchcraft abilities. Customize your gear and combat style with these powerful tools to ensure every spell carries a unique impact.
Headhunts and the Rise of the Headrotten Bosses
Seasonal gameplay ramps up with Headhunts, intense subzone events reminiscent of Helltide mechanics. The Tree of Whispers identifies areas teeming with Headrotten activity, calling players to purge Sanctuary of their rotting corruption.
Headrotten bosses guard these areas, each tied to a Fugitive Head and their lingering memories. Some are merely parasites, while others are rare Headed Headrotten Bosses, fully merged with their stolen hosts. These grotesque enemies wield devastating abilities, forcing you to strategize in order to claim victory and reap legendary rewards.
While completing Whisper bounties within Headhunts, keep a keen eye for any Rootholds. These seasonal dungeons have bonus challenges and rewards to aid your quest to support the Coven.
Even More New Features
Beyond the Witchcraft mechanics and Headhunts, Season of Witchcraft brings fan-requested updates and exciting seasonal rewards:
Armory Feature: Switch between saved loadouts with ease. Save Skill Points, Paragon Points, and gear sets for fast swapping between builds.
Seasonal Rewards & Legendaries: Gain access to new Uniques, Legendaries, and gameplay updates, including three new Runes and exclusive tiers within the Seasonal Journey. Progress through the tiers to unlock cosmetic upgrades like the coveted Raven Pet.
Coven’s Favor Battle Pass: Earn prestigious rewards by conquering Coven-inspired challenges tied to the seasonal theme.
Claim Balance from Chaos
Diablo IV: Season of Witchcraft is one of the most haunting journeys yet. By exploring the secrets of the Tree of Whispers and allying with the Witches of Hawezar, you will unravel a deeply engaging saga rife with moral complexity and danger lurking in every shadow.
Sanctuary awaits your bravery, Wanderer. The Tree calls for justice, and its whispers demand action. Will you answer?
Don’t miss the start of Season of Witchcraft, coming January 21.
Diablo® IV is the next-gen action RPG experience with endless evil to slaughter, countless abilities to master, nightmarish Dungeons and legendary loot. Embark on the campaign solo or with friends, meeting memorable characters throughout a beautifully dark open world and a gripping story. Dive into an expansive End Game where players can meet in towns to trade, team up to battle larger-than-life World Bosses, unlock robust character and loot customization, and uncover tons more action-packed activities to explore with cross-play and cross-progression on all available platforms.
This is only the beginning for Diablo® IV, with new events, stories, Seasons, rewards, and more looming on the horizon.
Battle.net® account required. Internet connection required.
Howdy, folks! This week, the crew returns for the first show of 2025! Topics of discussion include Marvel Rivals and retro classics Final Fantasy 5 and the Contra series. Plus, Brett joins to close out the PlayStation 30th Anniversary discussion by sharing his favorite PS5 and PS VR2 games.
Stuff We Talked About
Next week’s release highlights:
Star Wars Episode 1: Jedi Power Battles | PS5, PS4
Synduality Echo of Ada | PS5
Dynasty Warriors: Origins hands-on details
Arken Age pre-launch details
Platformers of PlayStation Plus
Marvel Rivals
Brett highlights his top games on PS5 and PS VR2
The Cast
Download the image
Sid Shuman – Senior Director of Content Communications, SIE
Brett Elston – Manager, Content Communications, 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.]
Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero will receive its first major downloadable content release on January 23, with the DLC 1: Hero of Justice pack adding 11 new heroes and more.
Bandai Namco announced the expansion with a trailer, below, and revealed the release date alongside word that anyone who buys the $34.99 Season Pass, which will eventually deliver three full DLC packs, can access it on January 20 at 3pm Pacific / 6pm Eastern / 11pm UK.
The pack of 11 new characters, which all arrive at once, includes Gohan (Super Hero), Gohan (Super Hero, Super Saiyan 2), Ultimate Gohan (Super Hero), Gohan (Beast), Piccolo (Super Hero), Piccolo (Potential Unlocked), Orange Piccolo, Orange Piccolo (Giant), Gamma, Gamma 2, and Cell Max.
The pack also comes with Piccolo’s Red Ribbon soldier disguise as a costume and three custom battles. Bandai Namco also teased “that’s not all” but didn’t say what other extras fans can expect.
Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero proved incredibly successful for the publisher, surpassing three million sales in a single day. It became the first sequel to the beloved Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi series in 15 years when it launched in October 2024.
They didn’t even get mad when one fight proved unbelievably difficult at launch, as Great Ape Vegeta had the coveted combination of random, unrelenting, and rapid attacks that all do big damage. Players were pulling their hair out at its difficulty and placement relatively early on in the game’s campaign, though Bandai Namco assured them it’s okay to lower the difficulty and move on.
Ryan Dinsdale is an IGN freelance reporter. He’ll talk about The Witcher all day.
