Gah! I’ve lost them again. My precious brows and burns, they’ve gone walkabouts! Luckily, The Outer Worlds 2 latest patch aims to take care of instances of misbehaving hair. That’s far from the only fix in what’s a very beefy list, with companion buffs, crash corrections, and instances of weird NPC antics also having been tended to.
Plus an increase for new-hires.
Sega has announced that it is raising the salary for its full-time staff along with increasing the starting salary for new-hires over in Japan (thanks, Automaton).
Starting from 1st April 2026, the base salary for full-time employees will raise by an average of around 10%. Sega is introducing a more flexible pay structure while also converting annual bonuses into base pay.
Read the full article on nintendolife.com
Arc Raiders publisher Nexon has defended the game’s use of generative AI, suggesting players should “assume that every game company is now using AI.”
Arc Raiders, like developer Embark’s 2023 shooter, The Finals, declares it uses AI in development, stating on its Steam store page: “During the development process, we may use procedural- and AI-based tools to assist with content creation. In all such cases, the final product reflects the creativity and expression of our own development team.”
Embark expanded on this with PCGamesN recently, saying Arc Raiders “in no way uses generative AI whatsoever” and stressed that it instead used “something called machine learning, or reinforcement learning, and that’s to do with the locomotion for our larger drones with multiple legs, but there’s no generative content whatsoever.”
However, in the same interview, design director Virgil Watkins added that with regards to its controversial text-to-speech system, it “hire[d] and contract[ed] voice actors for it — it’s part of their contract that we use [AI] for this purpose, and that allows us to do things like our ping system, where it’s capable of saying every single item name, every single location name, and compass directions. That’s how we can get that without needing to have someone come in every time we create a new item for the game.”
Now, in a fresh interview with Game*Spark (as translated by Automaton), Junghun Lee, CEO of Arc Raiders’ publisher Nexon, not only championed AI for improving “efficiency in both game production and live service operations,” but also stated: “I think it’s important to assume that every game company is now using AI.”
“First of all, I think it’s important to assume that every game company is now using AI,” Lee said. “But if everyone is working with the same or similar technologies, the real question becomes: how do you survive? I believe it’s important to choose a strategy that increases your competitiveness.”
It certainly feels as though Lee’s comments ring true. EA CEO Andrew Wilson has said AI is “the very core of our business,” and Square Enix recently implemented mass layoffs and reorganized, saying it needed to be “aggressive in applying AI.” Dead Space creator Glen Schofield also recently detailed his plans to “fix” the industry in part via the use of generative AI in game development, and former God of War dev Meghan Morgan Juinio said: “… if we don’t embrace [AI], I think we’re selling ourselves short.”
Conversely, Nintendo has bucked the trend, with Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto previously stressing that the company would rather go in a “different direction” than the rest of the video game industry when it comes to AI.
That said, its use of AI clearly hasn’t held Arc Raiders back. It’s now sold over 4 million copies worldwide less than two weeks since its release date, cementing its commercial success. Nexon also revealed that the extraction shooter had reached a huge concurrent count of 700,000 players across all platforms.
“ARC Raiders raises the bar for extraction shooters pretty much across the board, with an incredibly gripping progression grind, tense fights against NPCs and other players that make for memorable matches, and loot that feels completely worth all the work and stress it takes to obtain it,” we wrote in IGN’s Arc Raiders review, which returned an ‘Amazing’ 9/10.
“The fact that it manages to also run well and look amazing all the while is just downright impressive, even if a few bugs here and there lead to the rare rage quit. For years I’d been wondering when someone would take the awesome promise of this genre to the next level, and ARC Raiders is without question what I’ve been waiting for.”
If this has tempted you into jumping into Arc Raiders, check out our guide to the best settings, find out what skills we recommend unlocking first, and see how to earn loot by delivering field depot crates.
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.
If I wanted to party anywhere in the Marvel universe, I’d be reserving my beanbags and buckets of lentil chips for Dr Strange’s Sanctum Sanctorum. It’s a big posh wizard’s mansion, full of shelves of worrisome books and glass cabinets housing all manner of mystical nonsense that would make for an easy conversation starter, and probably some mildly apocalyptic drunken high jinks.
I mention this because players of Marvel Rivals appear to agree with me. According to publishers Nexon, a lot of you have been hosting impromptu mixers in the Sanctum Sanctorum when you really ought to be murdering each other dead. They don’t call it a “Doom Match” because it’s about speed-dating with your mortal adversaries, lads. Still, Nexon are nothing if not bendable in the face of customer whim. The meet-ups in Sanctum Sanctorum have inspired them to release a full-blown non-combat map set in New York’s Time Square, where 100 players can rub shoulders without yoinking each other’s arms off.
Previous issues have been resolved.
Earlier this year, a few months after the Switch 2 launch, Nintendo identified an issue with the Switch release Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition on the new hybrid platform.
Now, according to Nintendo’s new Switch 2 compatibility search page, the same title has received an update yesterday on 11th November 2025. According to the note attached, previously identified issues have been fixed.
Read the full article on nintendolife.com
Master the martial arts in 2026.
If you’re eager for even more RPG action on the Switch and Switch 2, Clouded Leopard and Spiral Up have today announced the release of Wandering Sword in 2026.
This is a martial-arts style role-playing game set in a wuxia world that blends “traditional pixel art graphics” with “immersive 3D landscapes”. It features an “innovative combat system” operating on a tiled board, and allows you to swap between turn-based and real-time battles on the fly.
Read the full article on nintendolife.com
Get a head start!
Alongside a new story trailer today, Square Enix has released an eShop demo for its upcoming Switch and Switch 2 release, Octopath Traveler 0.
This demo will allow you to experience the opening of the new game, including the first chapter of three different story arcs from the “Retribution story, as well as the first chapter of the “Restoration story” (or up to three hours of gameplay).
Read the full article on nintendolife.com
Is that…?
In case you missed it, Square Enix is releasing Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined on the Switch and Switch 2 next February.
During Sony’s State of Play broadcast earlier on, the team behind this reimagined release shared a new “follow-up trailer”, briefly highlighting the journey ahead for the party of heroes. Fans also got a glimpse of – spoiler alert – Kiefer as an adult, who you’ll be reunited with on your adventures.
Read the full article on nintendolife.com
Today’s special Japan-focused State of Play was packed with content from start to finish. It showcased fresh gameplay from major upcoming titles, brand-new game announcements, confirmed release dates, and more. Missed the livestream or want a quick recap of everything shown? You’re in the right place.
To start, you can watch the full show below. After that, we break down each of the featured games, highlighting key news, sharing some new trailers, and offering extra insights from the developers through a collection of dedicated PlayStation Blog posts.
BlazBlue Entropy Effect X, a roguelike action spin-off of the BlazBlue series, launches on PlayStation 5 on February 12, 2026. Featuring 14 familiar characters from the series and a brand-new story, the game lets you craft your own playstyle through deep character build options. Pre-orders open today.
Find out more in a dedicated PS Blog post from the game studio.
During today’s show, the single-player psychological horror anthology BrokenLore revealed two major updates: a new trailer and a January 16 release date for BrokenLore: Unfollow, a story themed around the dark side of social media available for pre-order today. The show also included the surprise reveal of BrokenLore: Ascend, a Tokyo-set survival horror with climbing elements.
Find out more in a dedicated PS Blog post from the game studio.
The spin-off title from the Coffee Talk series, Coffee Talk Tokyo launches on PS5 on March 5, 2026. Set in a cozy café in Tokyo, this narrative adventure lets players step into the role of a barista who brews comforting cups of coffee and listens to the stories of both humans and yōkai descendants who visit the café.
Coming to PS5 and PS4 in early 2026, Damon & Baby follows a cursed demon lord and a human child on a heartfelt journey. This action adventure game combines exploration with twin-stick shooter combat. Collect loot, level up, and strengthen their bond through every battle.
Digimon Story Time Stranger is about to expand its adventure. The first Season Pass DLC, Alternate Dimension, arrives this winter, introducing five unique Digimon and a new story centered on key characters. Get ready to explore an entirely new side of the Digital World.
Find out more in a dedicated PS Blog post from the game studio.
Today, Square Enix shared the latest trailer for Dragon Quest VII Reimagined, launching on PlayStation 5 on February 5, 2026. This reimagined version adds a new episode where you reunite with an adult Keifa in a new area and team up with him once again.
New details for the major DLC Visions of Four Heroes for Dynasty Warriors: Origins have been revealed. Launching on January 22, 2026. The DLC is available for pre-order starting today. It features a new story centered on the Four Heroes, along with new allies, weapons, and expanded 1 vs. 1,000 action across immersive battlefields.
The first DLC for Elden Ring Nightreign, The Forsaken Hollows, has been announced for release on December 4, accompanied by a brand-new trailer. This update adds two new playable Nightfarers, the Scholar and the Undertaker, along with two formidable new bosses to put your skills to the test.
Find out more in a dedicated PS Blog post from the game studio.
At today’s State of Play Japan, a new trailer for Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake was revealed, along with an interview with Makoto Shibata, Fatal Frame Series Director at Koei Tecmo Games. The remake launches on March 12, 2026, with pre-orders available starting today. This full remake of the 2003 Japanese horror adventure invites players to explore a cursed village and confront terrifying spirits using the mysterious Camera Obscura.
Find out more in a dedicated PS Blog post from the game studio.
Fate Trigger, a next-generation tactical hero shooter, begins early access in Q1 2026. Two new heroes join the roster: Fari, an attacker who creates clones, and TaTa, a defender with mini-turrets. A new map, Pale Blight Outpost, has also been revealed.
Gran Turismo Series Producer Kazunori Yamauchi announced that the Gran Turismo 7 Power Pack will release next month. Coming December 4, this paid add-on will introduce a brand new game mode packed with authentic motorsport challenges including 24-hour endurance racing and full race weekends.
Find out more in a dedicated PS Blog post from the game studio.
inKonbini: One Store. Many Stories, which gently captures the small moments of everyday life, is coming to PS5 in April 2026. Players take on the role of a convenience store clerk in a quiet town, interacting with familiar faces and shaping their own story through everyday choices.
Launching on January 29, 2026, Kyouran Makaism is a new 3D action RPG from the Disgaea team. Turn defeated enemies into 16 types of Familiars, from dragons to the alluring Empusa, then command or transform them into powerful weapons to reclaim your stolen pudding.
Today, we announced that the next Closed Beta for MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls will launch on PlayStation 5 on December 5 at midnight (PT) / 5 PM (JST). This beta adds Spider-Man and Ghost Rider to the roster, bringing the total number of playable characters to eight. Players can freely mix and match heroes and villains to form a four-character team. It also introduces two new stages, Savage Land and X-Mansion, each featuring unique interactive elements to discover.
Find out more in a dedicated PS Blog post from the game studio.
Attention hunters — Monster Hunter Wilds Free Title Update 4 arrives on December 16. The update adds the Giant Halberd Dragon, Gogmazios, plus new endgame content and seasonal events.
MotionRec, launching in Spring 2026, is a record-and-replay puzzle action game where you move, jump, and record your actions to replay them and overcome seemingly impossible paths. Use creative strategies and various gimmicks to explore ruined stages and uncover the mysteries of a machine-dominated world.
At today’s State of Play Japan, a new trailer for Never Grave: The Witch and The Curse was revealed, and its release date announced, March 5, 2026, for PS5 and PS4, with pre-orders available today. In our interview, Yasuomi Sakai, Producer at Pocketpair, discussed this 2D roguelike game’s boss battles, highlighting their unique attack patterns and special mechanics.
Find out more in a dedicated PS Blog post from the game studio.
No Sleep for Kaname Date – From AI: The Somnium Files launches on February 26, 2026, for PS5 and PS4. On PlayStation 5, the game features enhanced visuals that bring every moment of the investigation to life. Join Special Investigator Kaname Date and his AI partner Aiba as they pursue the case of a kidnapped net idol, Iris.
A demo for Octopath Traveler 0 is available starting today, ahead of the game’s December 4 launch on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. Play the first three hours and carry your progress into the full release. Create your character, begin your journey, and check out the newly released trailer in today’s show.
Find out more in a dedicated PS Blog post from the game studio.
This November, Once Upon a Katamari adds new content with the Katamari Dance Dance Remix Pack, featuring five fresh remix tracks and custom costumes. Another pack, the Katamari Neo Remix Pack, will follow this winter. Wrap up the year with new beats and bold new styles.
Find out more in a dedicated PS Blog post from the game studio.
Starting today, Sonic the Hedgehog speeds into Pac-Man World 2: Re-Pac. Experience brand-new stages inspired by Sonic’s world, packed with signature speed, classic gimmicks, and familiar faces, and face off against Dr. Eggman in an epic boss battle. Available today on PS5 and PS4.
Find out more in a dedicated PS Blog post from the game studio.
Get the latest update on Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, released in September. Nights, AiAi, and Tangle & Whisper join the race as free collaboration racers. Plus, the SpongeBob SquarePants Pack DLC launches on November 19 PT / November 20 (JST).
Super Robot Wars Y has announced the release date for its first collaboration DLC. DLC Pack 1 launches on November 20 PT / November 21JST, featuring crossover content from Galactic Whirlwind Bryger, The Big O, and Fūto PI: Portrait of Kamen Rider Skull. The update adds new area missions and playable units inspired by these three titles.
Find out more in a dedicated PS Blog post from the game studio.
Tokyo Xtreme Racer returns to PlayStation after 20 years, launching on PS5 on February 25(PT) / February 26(JST). Race through a sealed-off Tokyo against over 400 rivals, tuning your car for every challenge. With its unique Spirit Point system, victory depends as much on willpower as on speed. Conquer 180 km of faithfully recreated highways.
The RPG Wandering Sword will launch on May 28, 2026, and pre-orders start today. Set in ancient China and brought to life with stunning pixel art, it features dual battle modes, twenty endings shaped by your choices, and a full Japanese voiceover by an all-Japanese cast.
Developed by Sony Interactive Entertainment, the PlayStation 27” Gaming Monitor with DualSense Charging Hook is coming to the U.S. and Japan in 2026. It delivers stunning visuals from the latest PS5 games to your desktop, featuring a Quad High Definition (QHD) IPS display up to 2560 x 1440 resolution, High Dynamic Range support, VRR support and refresh rates of up to 120 Hz on PS5 and PS5 Pro consoles, and 240 Hz on compatible PC and Mac devices.
Elden Ring: Nightreign is getting its first meaty, proper, named DLC next month, including new bosses, new shifting earth, and new playable Nightfarers. The DLC is called The Forsaken Hollows, and it’s out on December 4, 2025.
This comes from a trailer shown during today’s State of Play, which showed off a lot of clips from what’s to come, albeit without a lot of context. There’s a clip showing what seems to be a new Shifting Earth known as The Great Hollow, which opens up a huge hole in the middle of Limveld with temples, towers, and crystals sticking out. We see two new Nightfarers: the first is the Undertaker, which uses strength and faith as her primary stats, and the Scholar, which seems to be an arcane-focused magic-user.
There are also two new bosses that should be familiar to FromSoft veterans. Most notable is a glimpse of Artorias, subject of the original Dark Souls DLC Artorias of the Abyss.
A voiceover that sounds a lot like Duchess also refers to “the aftermath of the Long Night,” perhaps implying that this DLC takes place after the “end” of Nightreign when the Nightfarers have defeated all the Nightlords. There’s also something at the beginning about the “Dreglord”. As usual, Souls fans will probably have to wait for the post-release lore videos to make sense of this one. It’s unclear how much story content this is really going to add, or if it’s just the bosses, the characters, and the shifting earth.
Elden Ring: Nightreign is Bandai Namco’s multiplayer riff on Elden Ring, where 1-3 players can fight their way through three nights of exploration, loot hunting, and bosses as they try to take down powerful Night Lords. The game launched back in May, and we gave it a 7/10, saying “When Elden Ring Nightreign is played exactly as it was designed to be played, it’s one of the finest examples of a three-player co-op game around – but that’s harder to do than it should be, and playing solo is poorly balanced.”
Since its release, FromSoftware has made a number of balance tweaks, added a duos mode, and updated with an ultra-hard difficulty mode called Deep of Night for those who for some reason didn’t think the game was hard enough as-is. However, the last few months have been quiet, and fans have grown agitated at the lack of news or updates, with FromSoftware leaving them to just fight the same bosses over and over. FromSoftware moved to reassure everyone just yesterday in a financial report, and today’s DLC announcement should help matters as well. It looks like the DLC will cost $15.00 if you don’t already own either the Collectors or Deluxe edition of the game.
You can catch up on everything announced at today’s State of Play right here.
Rebekah Valentine is a senior reporter for IGN. You can find her posting on BlueSky @duckvalentine.bsky.social. Got a story tip? Send it to rvalentine@ign.com.
