A studio gutted by Embracer have come back to life and are working on a new RPG

One of the many game studios smashed to pieces by Embracer Group has come back to life. Campfire Cabal, which was seemingly shut down in 2023 as part of their parent corporation’s scorched earth “restructuring” policy, have crawled out of the grave to announce they’re still around and, in fact, “never stopped working”. They’ve been making a new game in the Expeditions series of historical RPGs, and have been given “the green light to scale back up and transition into full production.”

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Avowed Director Quits Obsidian After More Than a Decade for Job at Netflix-Owned Oxenfree Studio

Avowed director Carrie Patel has quit legendary RPG company Obsidian Entertainment, just months after its most recent game’s launch.

In an update to her LinkedIn page, Patel revealed she had begun a new job at Night School, the Netflix-owned developer behind the Oxenfree series of narrative adventures.

“I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as Game Director at Night School: A Netflix Game Studio!” Patel wrote in a brief update. Patel’s new role at Night School will again be as a game director, though what she’s working on remains unannounced.

Night School is most famous for its Oxenfree series of games, the most recent being 2023’s Oxenfree 2: Lost Signals. The Netflix-owned studio launched Black Mirror spin-off Thronglets earlier this year, around the same time it suffered an unknown number of layoffs. Months before, Netflix completely shut down another of its studios, working on a AAA game project headed up by Halo veteran Joseph Staten.

Patel had been a veteran of Avowed developer Obsidian, and over 11 years worked in various senior positions on games such as Xbox sci-fi RPG The Outer Worlds and the classic Pillars of Eternity series.

More recently, Patel had taken on the reigns of directing Avowed after the game was rebooted early in its development. Avowed had initially been planned with a darker fantasy setting closer to The Elder Scrolls, with one big open world and multiplayer co-op.

Ultimately, Patel steered the game to launch as a brighter, more unique-looking experience, now featuring multiple large individual maps to explore, and an entirely single-player experience.

The response to Avowed was mostly positive, and Patel had initially discussed plans for the franchise to continue — either with expansions, a fully-fledged sequel, or both. Now, however, Patel won’t be part of that future.

An Avowed development roadmap announced last week detailed an array of mostly minor additions coming for free over the coming six months, including a Photo Mode and New Game Plus offering.

“With awesome worldbuilding and stellar character writing, Avowed reminds me why I fell in love with Obsidian’s RPGs in the first place,” reads IGN’s Avowed review. “However, the bigger picture is that it plays it quite safe, with a by-the-numbers fantasy adventure that’s more familiar than evolutionary.”

Obsidian’s next project to launch is The Outer Worlds 2, which is due to be shown off in detail at this year’s Xbox Games Showcase in June.

Tom Phillips is IGN’s News Editor. You can reach Tom at tom_phillips@ign.com or find him on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social‬

New LEGO Mario Sets Starring Wario, Captain Toad & Prince Florian Land August Release Date

First look at the all-important prices.

Earlier this month, LEGO lifted the lid on a fresh batch of upcoming Mario sets featuring a whole bunch of familiar faces. Today, those sets have finally cropped up online, giving us a closer look at the builds as well as the all-important price and release date.

The big news is that all of the following sets will launch on the LEGO website on 1st August 2025. The bigger news is that it finally sees the debut of LEGO Wario (bum chin and all). There’s also MiniFig debuts for Captain Toad, Mario Wonder‘s Prince Florian and a Wonder Flower-ed Bowser Jr.

Read the full article on nintendolife.com

Race into EA Sports F1 25 with EA Play Now

Race into EA Sports F1 25 with EA Play Now

EA Play F1 25 Hero Image

Leave your mark on the world of racing in EA Sports F1 25 with the EA Play trial. Create your story and push the limits for up to 5 hours starting May 27. If you decide to buy, your progress carries over to the full game.

EA Play members can also save 10% off EA digital purchases including the full version of the game and PitCoin (conditions, limitations and exclusions apply. See here for details). Plus, push through Podium Pass tiers at full throttle with in-game rewards including a monthly 5,000 XP boost.

EA Sports F1 25 puts you at the heart of Formula One racing with groundbreaking features. Take full control as the Owner of your own Formula One team with deeper management, revamped R&D, and a dynamic Team HQ that grows with your success. Plus, the thrilling next chapter of Braking Point puts the legacy of the Konnersport team in your hands, including alternative scenarios based on your choices.

Wield the Dance of the Shaman with Tales of Kenzera: Zau on The Play List

EA Play Tales of Kenzera Hero Image

With your cosmic powers and untried courage, members can brave the beautiful and treacherous land of Kenzera alongside the God of Death with unlimited access. Discover a rich universe with untold lore of chaos and order and journey through mystical 2.5D realms awash with color and depth, emboldened by multi-award-winning composer Nainita Desai’s enchanting original score.

May Rewards

Beyond the track, EA Play is bringing great membership rewards across some of EA’s hottest titles. From XP boosts to Weapon Charms, it’s the ultimate pit stop for fans.

EA Play  Rewards May Image
  • Apex Legends: Flex your Pilot roots with the Gold Data Knife Weapon Charm
    • Available now through June 2
  • Battlefield 2042: Button enemies down with the Bradley Vehicle Skin: Rolling Sigil
    • Available now through May 27
  • EA Sports F1 24: Go flat out through Podium Pass tiers with a 5,000 XP
    • Available now through May 31
  • EA Sports Madden NFL 25: Anchor the defense with Ultimate Team EA Play May Pack
    • Available now through May 31
  • EA Sports FC 25: Light up the pitch in style with the Heroes Purple Comet Left Arm Tattoo
    • Available now through June 5
  • EA Sports FC 25: Make the club truly yours with the Football Ultimate Team Draft Token
    • Available now through June 14
  • EA Sports NHL 25: Show out on the ice with WOC Battle Pass XP Modifier & CHEL Coins
    • Available now through May 22

Membership to EA Play is included with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers at no extra cost. Experience unlimited access to a collection of top EA titles, trials of select new games, member rewards, and a 10% discount on EA digital purchases.

Stay up to date with the latest news and member benefits at the EA Play page or follow them on X (Twitter) and Instagram.

The post Race into EA Sports F1 25 with EA Play Now appeared first on Xbox Wire.

After Redesigning Donkey Kong, Nintendo Has Tweaked Another Classic Character — and Here’s Our Best Look Yet

Nintendo has showcased its revamped look for Diddy Kong, after previously changing the company’s decades-old design for his bigger pal Donkey Kong.

Earlier this year, Nintendo fans noticed some distinct changes had been made to Donkey Kong’s look within official artwork for the character, as well as in early Mario Kart World footage.

Now, Nintendo has given us a look at some changes to Diddy Kong as well, via artwork from the company’s website and brand images on display at Licensing Expo 2025, which is currently taking place in Las Vegas.

As spotted by Nintendo Life, the following images show a slightly more cartoony take on Diddy, with more rounded eyes and a cheekier, friendlier smile.

Attendees at the Licensing Expo 2025, an event for brands to showcase their franchises and secure merchandising and partnership deals, can also see the new-look Diddy (and Donkey) Kong there, as seen in photos from attendee Cptn_Alex on social media.

Nintendo has not commented on the changes to Diddy Kong, and earlier Donkey Kong, though the alterations have widely been linked to the character’s look in the lucrative The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

Even Princess Peach has been given a slight redesign. The Mushroom Kingdom’s ruler had her appearance switched on the box of her Switch game Princess Peach: Showtime! to an appearance more similar to her big screen version, IGN sister site Eurogamer previously noted.

Donkey Kong will next take centre stage in the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 title Donkey Kong Bananza, and while his sidekick Diddy Kong has yet to be confirmed, the inclusion of other Kong relatives such as Cranky Kong — and Nintendo going to the trouble of polishing up Diddy Kong’s look now — would point to it being very possible.

And then there’s the upcoming Super Mario Bros. Movie sequel, which looks to be titled Super Mario World. After Donkey Kong’s major presence in the first film (and a cameo from Diddy Kong), it seems likely we’ll be seeing more of Nintendo’s great apes there, redesign and all.

Tom Phillips is IGN’s News Editor. You can reach Tom at tom_phillips@ign.com or find him on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social‬

Deals For Today: Slashing Legends Pokémon Tin Back in Stock at Amazon for $30

Pokémon TCG sealed product is in a strange place right now. Prices at Amazon and other retailers keep climbing, but single cards from Journey Together and Surging Sparks are crashing hard on the collector market.

That makes the Slashing Legends tin a tough sell, no matter how cool it is. Sure, it comes with two Journey Together packs and a promo Koraidon ex, but at nearly $6 a pack, you’re paying for FOMO more than value.

Still, if you’ve been waiting for stock, it’s worth picking up anyway. But if you’re just after hits, you might want to skip the tin entirely and go straight to the singles. Let’s dig in and see what the best deals are for today.

TL;DR: Deals For Today

Budding into a backyard chef this summer? Tufons 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill is going for $299.99 (down from $409.99). Fitness buffs can snag the NordicTrack T Series treadmill for $1,295.98, saving nearly $400, while tech-savvy homeowners can future-proof their network with the TP-Link Quad-Band WiFi 7 BE33000 Mesh System at $1,151.59 (23% off).

For those on the move, the Windone Electric Scooteris available for $239.99, offering a 19MPH top speed and up to 17 miles of range. Gamers can dive into action with Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 for PS5 at just $39.99, a significant drop from its $69.99 list price. Aspiring coders can benefit from the Pearson Learn To Program 2025 Bundle on Humble for $25, unlocking a wealth of programming resources. And for audiophiles, the Assassin’s Creed Shadows Soundtrack Collection 4LP Vinyl is up for preorder at $98, featuring 44 tracks across four heavyweight LPs,

Slashing Legends Tin

The Slashing Legends tin is one of the most popular Pokémon TCG products just for having two Journey Together and one Surging Sparks booster packs.

But at nearly $6 per pack, it’s a high price based on just the boosters included.

Unless you need the Koraidon ex promo card for your collection or deck, i’d advise checking out the crashing prices on Journey Together single cards below instead.

Journey Together Cards: Big Price Drops This Week

This Week’s Pokémon TCG Crashers and Climbers

It’s becoming abundantly clear that buying up singles on the Pokémon TCG collector market is the way forward for trainers right now.

Some chase cards that have crashed recently are cheaper than some overpriced booster bundles currently.

Some of the prices above look crazy, but some of them we’re nearly double just a couple of weeks ago, with the latter 5 cards climbing higher and higher.

If your heart is set on ripping open booster packs, let’s get into the best way to do just that without destroying your life savings (much).

More Pokémon TCG Sealed Products

If you’re desperate for some big box retailer products, here you go.

Just make sure to be savvy before buying, as 9 times out of 10 TCG Player will be cheaper in this climate.

MTG Final Fantasy Preorders

Meanwhile preorders for Magic the Gathering: Final Fantasy are still up at Walmart and Amazon, specifically the Bundle and Starter Kit for retail pricing.

This is set to be the biggest MTG set in the history of the trading card game, so it’s a wise choice to preorder now. You can also preorder single cards at the moment too:

MTG FF Single Card Prices Before Launch

I’ve focused on some of the more popular character appearances here, but there’s plenty more to secure with this set having nearly 700 cards including Extended Art, Boarderless and Surge Foil variants.

The worst thing you can do as a Magic or FF fan is to sleep on this set, it’s going to explode. These are the current biggest cards in the set before launch on June 5.

Bear in mind it’s mega risky to buy before release day, as prices could plummit in the meantime. Still, it’s worth keeping an eye on what’s hot, and what’s not!

MTG: Marvels Spider-Man Preorders

Spidey is slinging his way to Magic: The Gathering Universes Beyond later this year, completing an epic lineup of licenced sets that are bound to breakdown the entry barrier of MTG for most.

Suprisingly, the Play Booster Box and Spidey’s Spectacular Showdown Scene Box are back up for preorder.

It’s a dream set for Marvel fans, who should get on this set early before prices on single cards goes through the roof.

More MTG Sealed Products

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Soundtrack Collection 4LP Vinyl

Assassin’s Creed fans and vinyl collectors alike will want to move quickly on the Assassin’s Creed Shadows – Soundtrack Collection – 4LP Vinyl, now available for preorder via IGN Store.

Priced at $98, this deluxe set includes 44 tracks spread across four heavyweight black LPs, featuring music from three distinct albums: The Flight’s brooding original score, TEKE::TEKE’s surf-rock spin on stealth moments, and Thunderdrum’s East African-infused soundscapes for Yasuke’s storyline.

The packaging itself is a collector’s dream, with a rigid slipcase and bespoke sleeve artwork straight from Ubisoft. Whether you’re chasing down targets in feudal Japan or just need something immersive on your turntable, this set captures the soul of Shadows before the game even launches.

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2

If you’ve been waiting for a proper return to brutal, gory, no-nonsense action in the Warhammer universe, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 for PlayStation 5 is finally here with a deal worth grabbing.

Down to just $39.99 (from its $69.99 list price), this third-person action game drops you into the armor of Space Marine Titus as he leads the charge against Tyranid swarms.

It’s unapologetically chaotic, refreshingly fast, and deeply satisfying whether you’re purging in solo mode or with friends in 3-player co-op.

This standard edition also includes the Macragge’s Chosen DLC, featuring custom cosmetics for your Bolt Rifle, Chainsword, and Power Armour.

Pearson Learn To Program 2025 Bundle

If you’re looking to level up your coding skills or finally learn the difference between Python and C++, the Humble Learn to Code Bundle is a seriously smart pick. For as little as $1, you can unlock a portion of this 26-item programming library, or go all in for $40 to get the full $940 value.

Courses cover everything from Python and JavaScript to SQL, C, and C++, with guides like Learn Python the Hard Way and Captain Code included. Everything’s in DRM-free PDF format, so you can learn at your pace on any device. Proceeds support Girls Who Code, making this an excellent opportunity to sharpen your own skills while backing the next generation of programmers.

Windone Electric Scooter

For a limited time, you can grab the Windone Electric Scooter for just $239.99, making it one of the better commuting scooter deals we’ve seen under $250. With a 430W peak motor, this foldable ride hits speeds of up to 19MPH and covers up to 17 miles on a single charge.

The 10-inch tires help smooth out bumpy roads, while dual braking (drum and eABS) keeps you safe on sudden stops. It folds down in seconds and only weighs 37.8 pounds, so it’s easy to stash in a trunk or carry onto public transport. You also get UL 2272 safety certification and a year-long warranty, which is nice peace of mind if you’re planning to swap your morning drive for something more compact.

4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill

If you’re looking to upgrade your backyard setup this summer, the Tufons 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill with Side Burner is a serious contender at $299.99 (down from $409.99). It packs in 46,500 BTUs of total cooking power across four main burners and one side burner, all individually ignitable with piezo control. With 457 square inches of cooking area, cast iron grates for even heat, and a handy warming rack, it’s ready for anything from slow-cooked ribs to quick burgers. The stainless steel body is built to last, and cleanup is a breeze thanks to the full-size grease tray and removable cup. There’s even built-in storage and a prep table, making this one of the best full-featured grills you can snag under $300 right now.

NordicTrack T Series

NordicTrack T Series treadmill bundle just dropped to $1,295.98 (down from $1,695), and it includes a full year of iFit Pro membership. That means you’re not just buying a treadmill — you’re unlocking guided global workouts, live studio classes, and training sessions led by Olympians and pro athletes. With a 3.6 horsepower motor and built-in streaming display, it’s designed to keep you moving and motivated. Plus, iFit’s real-time trainer control feature can automatically adjust your incline and speed. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to upgrade your home gym, this is it — and you’re saving nearly $400 while you’re at it.

TP-Link Quad-Band WiFi 7 BE33000

If you’re building a high-performance home network that can handle serious demands, the TP-Link BE33000 WiFi 7 Deco BE95 Mesh System is the future-proof upgrade to beat. This 3-pack delivers jaw-dropping quad-band speeds with WiFi 7 support, capable of serving over 200 devices without breaking a sweat. With dual 10G WAN/LAN ports, 2.5G Ethernet, and AI-driven seamless roaming, you’re getting enterprise-grade features with plug-and-play simplicity. And thanks to HomeShield security, your devices stay protected without needing extra subscriptions.

Unlock Pro 3D Modeling Skills With Blender

If you’re looking to level up your Blender game or break into 3D modeling without breaking the bank, Humble’s latest Blender software bundle is worth a serious look. Starting at just $1, this massive collection includes 25 Blender-focused courses and guides valued at over $2,700, covering everything from procedural textures and geometry nodes to environment design, game asset workflows, and Unreal Engine integration. For just $18, you’ll unlock the full lineup, including standout tutorials like Blender 4 Geometry Nodes Workshop – Jungle Vines, Material Fundamentals – Procedural Textures in Blender 4.4, and Blender to Unreal Engine 5: The Complete Beginners Guide.

INIU Power Bank Sale

Amazon is running a solid range of discounts on INIU power banks, covering everything from ultra-portable 10,000mAh models to heavy-duty bricks that can charge your laptop. The compact 10000mAh 5V/3A model is just $15.98 (was $21.99), and the sleek 22.5W 10000mAh version — marketed as the smallest in its class — is down to $22.99. For more power, the 22.5W 20000mAh option is $29.99, and the MagSafe-compatible 45W 10000mAh model has dropped to $35.99 from $49.99. Need something serious? The 27000mAh 140W bank is $71.99 (was $99.99), and the 25000mAh 100W version is $48.58 with an on-site coupon. There’s also a handy 2-pack of 10000mAh banks for $35.99, or a great mid-range 20000mAh 65W model for $35.99. If your current battery pack is on its last leg, or you want one for every bag, these are easy recommendations.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold 256GB

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold (256GB, Unlocked) is now $1,499, down from $1,799 for a limited time. This is Google’s most powerful foldable yet, with a massive, silky-smooth display, a refined matte finish, and a triple rear camera that makes the most of its bendable form. It comes loaded with Gemini AI and includes a free year of Gemini Advanced (worth $239), letting you try Google’s full suite of AI tools. If you’ve been eyeing a foldable that doesn’t bulk up your pocket or compromise on camera quality, this is the one to watch.

SAMSUNG Galaxy S25 512GB

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (512GB, Unlocked) is down to $1,169.99, saving you $250 off the regular $1,419.99 price. This 2025 flagship is loaded with Samsung’s most advanced AI features yet, including a portrait-ready camera that cleans up noisy audio in low-light videos and a multitasking assistant that can Google and message in one go. It also ships with Android 15, 12GB RAM, and a huge 6.9-inch display. Titanium Silverblue is in stock now, but it might not stay that way.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 + Smart Tag

Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 (44mm LTE) is currently $299.99 and comes bundled with a free SmartTag2—a solid 27% off the usual $409.98 price. This latest model features enhanced heart rate tracking, sleep monitoring, and Galaxy AI-powered performance insights, including a daily Energy Score and personalized Wellness Tips. With LTE connectivity and the new SmartTag2 included, it’s built for fitness, productivity, and finding your keys. Deal ends June 30.

Bose QuietComfort

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones are down to $229 at Amazon—a rare 34% off their $349 price. This limited edition Twilight Blue model brings signature Bose noise cancellation, plush comfort, and a full 24 hours of battery life. You get punchy sound with customizable EQ, plus the option to switch between full noise cancelling or ambient-aware modes. Multipoint Bluetooth makes it easy to jump between devices, and there’s a wired option when you need it.

Nintendo Switch 2 Accessories Sale

Did you manage to grab a Nintendo Switch 2 preorder in? If so you’ll want to protect that tarrif-dodging investment at all costs. Luckily I’ve got the best cases, screen protectors and thumb grips on the market right now.

TZGZTs case and screen protector bundle is great value for money at $12.84 and is a consistent best seller.

Looking for cases that will fit inside a Switch 2 dock? JSAUX has us all covered with some option alongside some premium cases and hardshells.

I’ve included JSAUX as i’ve been hands on with the products above and can’t reccomend them enough.

DOOM: The Dark Ages Limited Edition A3 Art Print

This hand-numbered A3 art print is limited to 995 copies and features Slayer in all his demon-destroying glory.

It’s printed in the UK on high quality paper, includes a certificate of authenticity, and ships in July 2025.

If you’re already excited for DOOM The Dark Ages, this is the first official piece of merch up for preorder.

Cooler Master NR2 Pro Mini ITX

Cooler Master’s ultra-compact NR2 Pro Mini ITX system packs serious specs into a case roughly the size of a shoebox. This build includes an AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D processor, RTX 5080 GPU, 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD. It runs quiet thanks to a 280mm AIO cooler and even supports glass or mesh panel configurations. At 10 percent off, it’s a rare price drop for one of the most powerful small form-factor PCs you can buy.

Skytech Chronos Gaming PC

This high-performance Skytech Chronos build features a Ryzen 7 7800X3D processor and RTX 5080 graphics card, giving you 4K-ready gaming with no thermal compromise. It’s cooled by a 360mm AIO and comes loaded with 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 2TB Gen4 SSD. It also includes a free gaming keyboard and mouse. With a 14 percent discount, it’s a great option if you’re looking to upgrade for modern triple-A performance.

ASUS TUF F16

Down to $1099.99, this F16 laptop includes an i7-13650HX processor and RTX 4060 GPU. Its 165Hz display runs at a 16:10 aspect ratio with 100 percent sRGB coverage for better color accuracy and smoother gameplay. It’s also MIL-STD-810H certified, meaning it’s built to handle everyday bumps and travel. You get strong cooling features, 512GB of Gen4 storage, and a subtle, clean design that doesn’t scream gamer when it’s closed.

Google Pixel 9 Pro 1TB

Pixel 9 Pro is Google’s most powerful phone yet, and today’s deal brings the 1TB model down to $1149. That includes the new Super Actua display, upgraded triple-camera system, and a full suite of Gemini-powered AI tools. From photo editing with Magic Editor to real-time help from Gemini Live, it delivers Google’s best features with premium hardware and a slick, matte finish. It’s also unlocked for all major carriers.

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.

Military Incremental Complex is freeware classic Dope Wars for arms dealing

Oh, Dope Wars ’98, let me count the ways you moulded me into the man I am today, buying extra large trench coats in which to store my 100 units of acid. Military Incremental Complex riffs off that game’s unmistakably ’98 interface, but instead of playing a cool and aspirational heroin entrepreneur, you play a dastardly bullet merchant. Begin crafting artisan handmade farm-fresh shotgun shells, work your way up to nukes. Typical woke renewable energy propaganda. Can’t even sell massive bundles of dynamite with ‘TNT’ written on them anymore in case it offends the coyotes.

You’ll “produce multiple different weapons, research upgrades, manipulate the stock market, and lobby the government for favours”. It’s from Space Kraken, makers of Squeebing Up The Tower Of Friendship, a game I have not played but enjoy saying the name of aloud. Squeebing. Squeeeebing. “6 hours in the demo and another hour in the released game, I still have no idea what squeebing is,” reads one review. UrbanDictionary defines ‘squeebing’ as … actually, I’m not repeating what UrbanDictionary defines squeebing as. Here’s a trailer with wholesome god-fearing guns in it instead.

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Helldivers 2 Players Are Ready For Revenge After Illuminate Invasion Razes Mars

An invasion of Super Earth is underway in Helldivers 2‘s latest update, bringing the once-distant frontlines of conflict close to home. Amid the chaos of the invasion, Helldivers were informed that the Illuminate have razed the neighboring planet of Mars, and players are already eager for some payback over it.

In-universe news reports detailed the specifics, declaring that Mars has been razed by the Illuminate. The Helldiver Training Sites on Mars were part of the destruction, and the facility operators who were running the training have perished in defense of the planet.

Opening the Galaxy Map in Helldivers 2 right now shows a destroyed, but still present, mass of rock.

Mars was, until a recent update, the training facility for Helldivers preparing to take part in the galactic spread of democracy. The sudden switch of tutorial zones already set off alarm bells a week or so ago, but now, the drive was clear: as part of the invasion, the Illuminate have taken something all Helldivers 2 players had a sentimental stake in.

The official Helldivers 2 account posted some promotional art to X/Twitter, urging players to “Avenge Mars.”

The attempt to stir up the hearts and emotions of Helldivers 2 players seems to have worked, too. Already, Helldivers players are leaning into the bit; one posts a GIF from Starship Troopers, referencing Rico’s determination to squash the bugs after his hometown is destroyed, and another shares the closed fist meme that’s become ubiquitous in record time. Helldivers 2 players will always lean into the universal storytelling.

Still, alongside all the kayfabe Helldivers posts, some can’t resist having some fun with it. “Hey, the only people who are allowed to kill Helldivers on Mars are Super Earth Drill Instructors!” wrote one user. And references to DOOM and various other media are pretty solid, too.

The invasion of Super Earth by Illuminate forces is well underway in Helldivers 2’s Heart of Democracy update, which went live today. Players can currently drop onto the planet to defend it against the extraterrestrial squids, and even with some new SEAF back-up, the situation seems chaotic. We’ll see how this pans out over the next few Major Orders, but I’m not ruling out a few more gut-punches from Joel and developer Arrowhead Game Studios.

Eric is a freelance writer for IGN.

Nintendo Shares More Artwork Of Diddy Kong’s Brand New Design

Just in time for Switch 2.

The Switch 2 generation is making updates and changes all over the shop, but one of the major talking points has been the redesign of Donkey Kong. He’s sporting a new look in Mario Kart World and the new release Donkey Kong Bananza and as we found out last week, Diddy Kong is also getting a slight refresh.

Read the full article on nintendolife.com

Fortnite Is Finally Back on the U.S. Apple App Store

Fortnite has made its long-awaited return to the U.S. Apple App Store for iPhone and iPad users.

Developer Epic Games shared and celebrated the news with a post on X/Twitter, letting mobile gaming fans know that they can finally go back to playing its massively popular battle royale experience after five years of waiting. The new Fortnite iOS store page is back the same as it was the day it left in 2020, though its description now starts with a new message: “Fortnite is back!”

At the time of this story’s publication, some U.S. Apple users may have trouble searching for Fortnite through the App Store itself, though Epic says this will change “soon.” In the meantime, you can click here to see its revived store page. For those in the E.U., you can also now download Fortnite through the Epic Games Store and AltStore.

Fortnite’s reappearance on iOS devices like the iPhone and iPad brings an end to much of the drama surrounding Epic and Apple. It started in August 2020, when both Google and Apple announced they had removed Fortnite from their respective digital stores after Epic launched an update that decreased the price of V-Bucks while adding a direct payment system. At the time, the Fortnite studio explained that its decision was a direct result of what it was calling “exorbitant” store fees issued by Apple and Google.

What followed was a years-long legal battle that kept Fortnite absent from official storefronts for the millions of players who were previously enjoying it through Apple and Google Play. That changed in April when Epic CEO Tim Sweeney said Fortnite would return to the iOS App Store in early May following a decision from a U.S. Federal District Court in California. A bump in the road involving continued blocking from Apple saw its return postponed, but now, after five years, Fortnite is finally back on iOS devices.

Those who download Fortnite on an Apple phone or tablet will now have the option to purchase V-Bucks through the Epic Games Store or via in-app purchases. Those who pick the 2,800 V-Bucks pack for $22.99, for example, can choose to send the money directly to Epic, earning $4.60 (or 20%) back to be used on other offerings from the company.

For more on Fortnite, you can read up on Epic’s Darth Vader AI bot. It’s a Star Wars collaboration that’s not been without issue, as players quickly figured out how to get it to say “f**k.” The Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) filed an unfair labor practice charge against Epic yesterday.

Michael Cripe is a freelance contributor with IGN. He’s best known for his work at sites like The Pitch, The Escapist, and OnlySP. Be sure to give him a follow on Bluesky (@mikecripe.bsky.social) and Twitter (@MikeCripe).