Happy Fallout Day! Although the in-game event won’t happen for another fifty-one years, players can celebrate the classic video game franchise now. With eleven games to choose from, from five mainline games to three mobile games, the Fallout franchise has plenty of material to dive into. 

What is Fallout Day?

In the world of Fallout, October 23 marks the date in 2077 when the Great War began, an event that set off the nuclear apocalypse and drove civilization, the luckier side, into Vault-Tec bunkers. 

Bethesda celebrates Fallout Day every year with in-game events, rewards, discounts, and more. This year, the event began early on October 19, ran all week, and culminated in celebrations on the 23. First, an official X account for Fallout 76, the franchise’s online multiplayer offering, focused on special Fallout Day events for that game. A highlight this year was a sneak peek at the upcoming World Pets update, which lets players have furry friends that stick with them beyond their home base. 

In the online Atomic shop, players could pick up different items all week, including a Classic Performance Shed and a Sippin’ Station. The Atomic Shop also offered a free axolotl plushie this week. There were other free rewards available for players logging into Fallout 76 every day, like a new outfit that can be claimed through November 1. 

Fallout Day 2026 Is Here, and Bethesda Has Some Surprises for Fans

The first Fallout game takes place almost 100 years after the Great War, following a player-controlled Vault Dweller. The Vault Dweller must leave the safety of their vault to save everyone else inside after the water-pumping machinery breaks down. Leaving the vault for the first time, the Vault Dweller encounters both human and mutated, discovering a leader called the Master. The Vault Dweller can choose to fight the Master or join him, the latter leading to devastating consequences for the citizens of their vault. 

Next came Fallout 2, a direct sequel which followed a descendant of the original Vault Dweller. Set about eight years after Vault Dweller’s adventures, the story follows their grandchild, who is tasked with tracking down the Garden of Eden Creation Kit (or G.E.C.K.), a device capable of creating a thriving community. The character is saddled with the “no pressure” nickname of “the Chosen One” and given the Vault Dweller’s old jumpsuit, a spear, and other supplies to sustain them on their journey. 

Fallout 3 transitioned to an open-world format and moved the action from the West Coast to the area around Washington, D.C., a location in the game known as the “Capital Wasteland”. Players take control of the Lone Wanderer, who tracks down their father after he disappears from their community vault. 

Fallout 4 came next in 2018 and was set in the ruins of Boston. This game centered on the Sole Survivor, who emerged from cryogenic sleep just in time to witness the murder of their spouse and the kidnapping of their child, Shaun. Accompanied by Dogmeat, a German shepherd, the Sole Survivor searches for Shaun and faces a significant decision when they find him. Fallout 76 came next, an online multiplayer game which also serves as a prequel to the rest of the series. Players are initially tasked with securing nuclear silos in the Appalachia region, though later expansions added more missions. 

The Fallout games are available on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation, with mobile entries on Nintendo Switch. 

The post Happy Fallout Day! Here’s How Bethesda Is Celebrating the Wasteland’s Biggest Holiday. appeared first on VICE.

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Just days before Phantom Blade Zero launches, a new launch trailer has been revealed, offering fans a preview that runs over three minutes long. That’s not all the information Phantom Blade fans learned recently, with an update on upcoming editions coming next year. 

‘Phantom Blade Zero’ Confirms Physical Release Alongside Stunning New Launch Trailer

The new launch trailer highlights the game’s beautiful graphics, showcasing the environment and character models, all of which look absolutely stunning. It also highlights gameplay, including fight sequences. Close-up shots show off long, luxurious hair, gleaming eyes, and skin that looks real enough to touch. Phantom Blade Zero looks like a gorgeous game, and fortunately, players don’t have much longer to wait. 

The game will be released digitally on October 29, coming to PlayStation and Steam. For those who still prefer physical media, though, there will be an option for that, too. Along with the launch trailer, the developer revealed that physical discs of Phantom Blade Zero will be released next year. Three editions will be available, including Standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate editions. The Ultimate disc includes a collectible steel case. 

‘Phantom Blade Zero’ Reveals 3 Physical Editions Coming in 2027

Although the release date for physical editions isn’t specific beyond 2027, it’s still positive news for players who don’t want to rely on digital releases. The announcement graphic included photos of the game discs, which means this will be a product people can actually get their hands on, not just a code in the box. 

Phantom Blade Zero centers on Soul, an assassin who uses a wide range of weapons for his work, from traditional swords and the titular phantom blades to axes, hammers, and even larger weapons like cannons. In fact, he has over 30 primary weapons, and He can obtain over 20 Phantom Edges from enemies he defeats in battle. Phantom Edges provide him with specialized attacks. 

Due to a serious wound to his heart, Soul only has a limited amount of time to live, so his mission to get to the heart of a crucial conspiracy is under a ticking clock. With combat inspired by real martial arts, Phantom Blade Zero draws players into a world rich in history and supernatural elements. 

Part of the Phantom Blade series, which was initially known as the Rainblood series before being renamed, Phantom Blade Zero is a reboot that follows Rainblood: Town of Death and Rainblood Chronicles: Mirage. Next came two mobile games under the Phantom Blade name. This upcoming game is a standalone story that takes the original lore and gives it a new spin. 

Ahead of its release, players can pre-order the game on both PlayStation and Steam. 

The post ‘Phantom Blade Zero’ Looks Absolutely Incredible in Its Final Launch Trailer appeared first on VICE.

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A new open-world survival game is now available on Steam, offering a vast environment and thrilling dangers, including human and other enemies. The Dead We Knew puts players in a fight to survive, whether alone or with friends online. The game entered early access on October 22 after being wishlisted by over 350,000 players on the platform. 

‘The Dead We Knew’ explores a post-apocalyptic, fog-shrouded world 

In The Dead We Knew, the focus is survival, but it’s more than just foraging and crafting, though that is certainly part of the game. Players need to build their own shelter from supplies they can forage in the surrounding environment, starting with a tent, before moving to a simple cabin. From there, shelters can grow into bigger, more secure bases, a crucial part of staying alive in The Dead We Knew. Especially when the fog rolls in. 

The day progresses on a 24-hour schedule and includes weather like rainfall and heavy fog. When visibility drops, survival gets even harder, not just because players might lose their way. The Dead We Knew includes not only human enemies and the perils of surviving in the wild, but also the undead. Zombies become more prevalent and violent when weather reduces visibility, especially at night or in fog. 

Between figuring out shelter and fighting off zombies, players also need to worry about food. They can forage for supplies in abandoned houses or make use of wild plants. They can also grow their own crops, such as tomatoes, and use those ingredients to make their own meals. Hunting is also an option when players are exploring forest areas. And when it comes to exploration, players aren’t limited to land. They can also swim and use boats to reach different areas of the map. 

It’s unclear how long The Dead We Knew will be in early access, though a note from the developers on the Steam page estimates about a year. The same note also says the developers are eager for audience feedback, as they want players to shape the game with their opinions. 

Early Steam reviews point to gameplay issues, including difficulty looting or engaging in combat with zombies. Hopefully, they’ll iron these issues out soon so players can dive into the fog-shrouded, zombie-filled world of The Dead We Knew with friends. 

The post Everything We Know About ‘The Dead We Knew,’ Steam’s New Open-World Zombie Survival Game appeared first on VICE.

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Dispatch released almost exactly a year ago and the hit 2025 game is celebrating its anniversary in a big way with new modes and a brand-new way to play.

Dispatch Arrives on Mobile December 9, 2026

Dispatch was a breakout hit in 2025 and managed to bring in a ton of awards thanks to its incredible voice acting and compelling narrative. There were some critics of the actual gameplay, but the strength of the narrative seemed to be enough to make it a fan-favorite.

Now, the team behind Dispatch is announcing a brand-new way to play the game. Dispatch comes to iOS and Android December 9, with support for Google Play Games on PC.

Additionally, the first four episodes are free. That means you can play the entire opening half of the story, and then the choice is yours: keep going, or leave the team hanging. Here are the key details from the announcement:

• Release date: December 9, 2026
• Platforms: iOS, Android, and Google Play Games on PC.
• Price: The first four episodes are free. Unlock the full game for $19.99 USD (prices will vary by region).
• What’s Included: The base game, rebuilt for touch and vertical play.
• Regions: All regions where PC and console are sold except China and Japan.
• Where: Pre-register on Google Play and pre-order on the App Store coming soon.

The anniversary celebration also included the announcement of Commentary and Story Modes. Deluxe Edition DLC owners get the two new behind-the-scenes playable game modes, free.

Commentary Mode – Over 16 hours of commentary across every episode, with two tracks to choose from in the Settings: Cast or Crew. Different choices unlock different commentary, so your playthrough could share new insights every time you play it. You’ll hear from Aaron Paul, Laura Bailey, Travis Willingham, and more of the cast, plus the people who wrote, directed, and designed the game.

Storyboard Mode – lay all of Dispatch the way it was first drawn. Every episode, start to finish, as the original storyboard animatics, so you can see how the scenes and characters were designed before a single frame was animated.

Lots of PC and console gamers have already played through Dispatch at this point, but it should be very interesting to see if this release helps bring the title in front of a wider audience.

Be sure to check back soon for lots more gaming news and updates.

Dispatch is available now on PC, PS5, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox Series consoles. Dispatch releases on mobile December 9, 2026.

The post 2025 Game of the Year Contender is Releasing on Mobile This Year appeared first on VICE.

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World of Warcraft players have speculated about the idea of multiclassing in the MMORPG for years, but the upcoming Dungeons and Dragons gameplay expansion will be their first official chance to try it out.

Multiclassing in Dungeons and Dragons: World of Warcraft Adventures

World of Warcraft has introduced additional class options over the MMO’s 20+ years of service, but it has yet to allow players to multiclass. Luckily, multiclassing is a feature built right into the Dungeons and Dragons core rulebook, so WoW players can live out those mutliclass fantasies at the tabletop when the gameplay expansion arrives.

Multiclassing allows D&D players to gain levels in multiple classes. With this rule, you have the option of gaining a level in a new class whenever you advance in level instead of gaining a level in your current class. Doing so lets you mix the abilities of those classes to realize a character concept that might not be reflected in a single class.

The most important rule to note about multiclassing is that players need to consult their DM for approval before going down this path. Different DMs may have different feelings about the multiclass rules, especially in a D&D adventure if they are trying to run a story that more closely aligns with the MMO’s existing rules.

For players who have permission to multiclass, there are tons of great combinations to experiment with. A few options to call out with be:

• Subtlety Rogue + Arms Warrior – The Rogue excels in utility, subterfuge, and landing deadly strikes in combat. The Warrior class brings powerful features like Action Surge and Second Wind into the Rogue’s repertoire. If your cover gets blown, you’ll be comforted knowing—and your enemies will be dismayed to discover—that you’re a formidable martial threat in your own right.
• Augmentation Evoker + Retribution Paladin – The Augmentation Evoker / Retribution Paladin can kick off combat with a Quickened control spell to debilitate a group of enemies or a buff spell to enhance their own power beforehand.
• Marksmanship Hunter + Assassination Rogue – The Marksmanship Hunter is a highly skilled archer, experienced at felling massive monsters and gangs of bandits alike. The Assassination Rogue stays unseen, strikes first and with deadly precision, and then disappears into the night. With these powers combined, a hidden Hunter firing off an arrow boosted by the Colossus Slayer feature while applying the Rogue’s Cunning Strikes and Sneak Attack poses an incredibly deadly threat.
• Shadow Priest + Affliction Warlock – Shamans and Warriors alike must choose whether to prioritize dealing damage to the enemy or taking damage on behalf of allies. If both the Shaman and the Warrior can act as the party bulwark, consider what one champion could do if they learned to master both of these practices.

As more play groups dive into this gameplay expansion in November, it will be very exciting to see what other combinations players come up with.

Be sure to check back soon for lots more Dungeons and Dragons news and updates as the World of Warcraft gameplay expansion release date approaches.

Dungeons and Dragons is available now at local game shops and digitally through D&D Beyond, Roll20, and other similar services. Dungeons and Dragons: World of Warcraft releases on November 17, 2026.

The post Dungeons and Dragons Offers World of Warcraft Players the Chance to Finally Multiclass appeared first on VICE.

Magic: The Gathering’s next big release is right around the corner and players can now get all the details they need about the upcoming prerelease events, set size, and what is inside each Prerelease Pack.

Everything To know About The Magic: The Gathering Star Trek Launch

Reality Fracture has been out in the wild for a while now, which means it is time for Magic: The Gathering players to begin looking forward to the next major set release. The next set returns to the Universes Beyond line and moves from the Magic Multiverse story to the world of Star Trek.

Magic: The Gathering | Star Trek’s prerelease events will take place between November 6 and November 12. The set will arrive on Magic Arena November 10 and will celebrate its global tabletop launch November 13.

In terms of legality, Magic: The Gathering | Star Trek (TRK) is legal in all formats.

Magic: The Gathering | Star Trek Commander (TRC) and stardates cards (SDS) are legal in Commander, Legacy, and Vintage, and individual cards are also legal where already available in other formats.

Magic: The Gathering | Star Trek Play Boosters contain cards from TRK and SDS. These cards are playable in Magic: The Gathering | Star Trek Draft and Sealed when opened from Play Boosters.

The main set of Magic: The Gathering| Star Trek includes 81 common, 110 uncommon, 80 rare, and 25 mythic rare cards. There are also 10 common dual lands and 10 default frame basic lands.

Each Magic: The Gathering | Star Trek Prerelease Pack includes the following:

• 6 Magic: The Gathering | Star Trek Play Boosters
• 1 Traditional foil rare or mythic rare card
• 1 Deck box
• 1 Spindown die

Prerelease packs are designed to be used in Sealed limited event tournaments, but players can also open them and just crack a few packs ahead of the set’s official street date.

That should give Star Trek and Magic: The Gathering fans just about everything they need to know to prepare for the upcoming prerelease window.

Be sure to check back soon for lots more Magic: The Gathering news as the Star Trek set’s release date approaches.

Magic: The Gathering is available now at local game shops and digitally through Magic Arena. The Magic: The Gathering – Star Trek set releases November 13, 2026.

The post Magic: The Gathering | Star Trek Pre-Release and Launch Dates Revealed appeared first on VICE.

After first announcing the upcoming The Keepsake Sea expansion at D23 in August, Disney Dreamlight Valley has confirmed a release date for the update, along with an additional three new characters who will be included. These fresh faces bring the total of new characters up to six. Players also learned about a brand-new themed event they can explore while they wait for the update to release. 

‘Disney Dreamlight Valley’: the Keepsake Sea will be available next month

Following the initial D23 announcement, Disney Dreamlight Valley released a trailer in September, which revealed the first batch of new characters, including Milo Thatch from Atlantis and Megara from Hercules. Players also learned that they could transform their characters into merpeople, including being able to customize the color of their tail. Developers also teased a new environment for players to explore. 

The initial release date was only revealed as launching in November, but a recent post on the Disney Dreamlight Valley has given a definitive date, along with a wave of other new details. The Keepsake Sea will be available starting on November 18, and that’s not all. While gamers wait for the expansion to arrive, they can explore the new Seafaring Star Path. The Star Path offers the opportunity to discover themed items perfect for the nautical update, including furniture, costumes, and clothes, especially for the merfolk cosmetics. 

More new characters have also been revealed. From the Disney classic Peter Pan, players will be able to welcome Captain Hook and Wendy Darling to the valley. The update also introduces Adventure Companions, who can help with exploring new areas – and the first will be Dory from Finding Nemo. According to the blog post, Adventure Companions will come with their own unique rewards, and Dory will be able to accompany the player on land thanks to the safety of a special bubble. 

‘Disney Dreamlight Valley’ Just Announced a Huge Update With Some Beloved Disney Characters

The update also includes three new environments, including Shipwreck Shore, which is where players will first encounter Milo. Next comes Candy Cove. As the name suggests, it’s a sugary and colorful world made entirely of desserts, and features Megara and Captain Hook. The third new biome is the Kingdom of Oublié, where Wendy will be waiting, and features a world of coral seashells. Each biome will feature special underwater areas that the player can explore in their merperson cosmetic. 

The Keepsake Sea also offers the player the opportunity to sail their own Enchanted Pirate Ship, which has a Captain’s Cabin that can be decorated and customized. Players can also customize the ship’s sail and flag. The ship can be utilized to pull treasure from the water, thanks to a crane onboard. 

While players wait for the update, they can explore Disney Dreamlight Valley on PC, Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, Playstation, Xbox, and mobile.

The post ‘Disney Dreamlight Valley’ Just Revealed 3 More Characters Coming in Its Next Expansion appeared first on VICE.

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Dead by Daylight frequently collaborates with other franchises, from video games like Five Nights at Freddy’s to movies and TV shows like Ellen Ripley from the Alien films and various Stranger Things characters. Recently, another collaboration with a popular franchise hit the Dead by Daylight store.

‘Diablo IV’ and ‘Dead by Daylight’ – devilishly fun companions 

DBD first announced the collaboration with Diablo IV during its tenth-anniversary livestream in June, and previewed the outfits on offer during the October of Horror broadcast earlier this month. Players can now finally get their hands on the Dead by Daylight x Diablo IV partnership. 

Three new Survivor cosmetics are available for Taurie Cain, David King, and Zarina Kassir. All three are original characters to Dead by Daylight, with Taurie arriving most recently in the “Doomed Course” chapter back in 2024. David debuted early in the game with the 2017 “A Lullaby for the Dark” chapter, and Zarina followed in 2020 during the “Chains of Hate” chapter. 

Taurie can bedeck herself in the Necromancer’s Duty, which includes a skull mask with long white hair, ribcage-shaped armor, and a legs cosmetic called “Cloth of the Deity”. David receives Barbarian’s Plight, which includes the “Blinded Bull” helmet with horns, armor pieces including a metal chest piece with a snarling face, and furred boots. For Zarina, the Sorcerer’s Perspective comes with a feathered headpiece, including horns to match David’s in the lobby, matching armor, and “Scaled Greaves” on her legs. 

The New ‘Dead by Daylight’ x ‘Diablo IV’ Crossover Is Finally Here

Killers certainly aren’t left out. Nurse, Dredge, and the Artist all have new cosmetics. The Nurse, also known as Sally Smithson, debuted in 2016 with the game’s first DLC chapter. The Artist, whose real name is Carmina Mora, came next in 2021 with the “Portrait of a Murderer” chapter, followed by the Dredge in 2022 with the “Roots of Dread” chapter. 

Each Killer cosmetic is modeled after a character from the Diablo franchise, including Diablo IV. The Nurse becomes Mephisto, the Lord of Hatred, with a massive headpiece with glowing orange eyes, a body piece with multiple arms, and a skeletal tail. The Dredge is dressed as Belial, the Lord of Lies, with a fearsome, clawed arm and elaborate armor. The Artist is Lilith, the Daughter of Hatred, with a horned headpiece that transforms her face, large leathery bat-like wings, and a version of the Artist’s palette blade called “Chain Breaker.” 

And that’s not all. Players can also access the Lilith portrait icon, which they can unlock by getting the Lilith cosmetic for the Artist. A new banner also features Lilith. Players can grab this after getting three outfits from the Diablo collection. 

The post ‘Dead by Daylight’ and ‘Diablo IV’ Have Joined Forces for a New Crossover. Here’s Everything We Know. appeared first on VICE.

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So. BioWare, the legendary RPG studio that created the Mass Effect series, was shut down just yesterday, taking with it an in-development Mass Effect 5. In my coverage of the initial event, I lamented that we'd never see the project again thanks to its unceremonious death. — Read the rest

The post Mass Effect 5 trailer leaks the day after studio closes appeared first on Boing Boing.

Magic: The Gathering Star Trek may not contain The One Ring, but it does still have some seriously rare (and likely valuable) chase cards that collectors will be trying to hunt down.

How Many Magic: The Gathering Star Trek Signed Cards Are Being Released?

On occasion, Magic: The Gathering sets will include special rare inserts in select products that give players something to chase down beyond the most powerful or pricey Mythic Rares in a given set. The upcoming Star Trek set is continuing that tradition by having famous actors from Star Trek’s history sign a very limited number of cards before they are packaged into their respective boosters.

The actors of Star Trek are synonymous with the franchise’s impact, and they’ve brought their gravitas and likenesses to Magic with these signed headliner cards.

“Each signed card was printed, physically signed by an iconic Star Trek actor, and randomly inserted into a Collector Booster. These signatures, which come paired with a portrait-style depiction of their character, are a genuine piece of Star Trek history, and you can bring them to your Magic collection.”

There are 7 different signed cards in Magic: The Gathering | Star Trek. There are fewer than 250 copies of each signed card, and each features a signature from a Star Trek actor.

That means at at the very high end, there are only 1,750 of these signed cards in rotation.

In terms of opening one of these Signed cards, players will need to be opening Collector’s Boosters. Signed cards can only appear in Collector Boosters of any language, but the card will always be in English. Opening Collector Boosters will be the only way to find the cards in the wild, unless players want to spend money on the secondhand market to purchase them.

Once the signed cards start appearing in the wild, it will be very interesting to see what sort of prices they go for on the resale market and which ones become the most popular. These type of cards tend to become highly sought after items, so prices will probably be quite high.

Be sure to check back soon for lots more Magic: The Gathering news as the Star Trek set’s release date approaches.

Magic: The Gathering is available now at local game shops and digitally through Magic Arena. The Magic: The Gathering – Star Trek set releases November 13, 2026.

The post Magic: The Gathering Star Trek – How Rare Are The Signed Cards (And How to Get Them)? appeared first on VICE.

After revealing the next generation of PS5 audio products back in September, Sony Interactive Entertainment is now ready to reveal the price, pre-order details, and release date for the new devices.

PlayStation Pulse Price and Release Date

The PlayStation Pulse wireless headset in White and Midnight Black will be available in select regions starting on November 19, 2026 at the recommended retail price of $99.99.

Starting at 7:00am PT on October 29, players in the U.S. will be able to pre-order the PlayStation Pulse wireless headset in White and Midnight Black direct from PlayStation through direct.playstation.com.

Starting at 10:00am local time on October 29, players in the U.K., France, Germany, Austria, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg will be able to pre-order the PlayStation Pulse wireless headset in White and Midnight Black direct from PlayStation through playstation.com/store/hardware.

Unfortunately, details about the Pulse Edge were not included in this update.

“Additionally, we’ll have more updates on Pulse Edge when it launches next year.”

Shoppers who are more interested in waiting for the Pulse Edge will need to continue to sit tight until pre-order details arrive for that device.

For those unfamiliar with the updated line of audio devices, here is how they were pitched by Sony in the original announcement:

“Superior sound quality remains at the heart of the new headset lineup, with custom studio-inspired planar magnetic drivers that deliver exceptional sound separation and spatial accuracy. This makes it easy for players to pinpoint directional cues, such as footsteps or reloads in competitive first-person shooters. Larger planar drivers have been added to PlayStation Pulse and Pulse Edge headsets, creating fuller, deeper bass, while keeping the clean sounds players have enjoyed from Pulse Elite.”

It should be interesting to see if the updated PlayStation Pulse becomes a popular seller this holiday season or if more players are holding out for the Pulse Elite experience in 2027.

Be sure to check back soon for lots more PS5 and gaming news.

The PlayStation Pulse wireless headset in will be available in select regions starting on November 19, 2026. The Pulse Edge Wireless headset launch starting in early 2027.

The post PlayStation Confirms Price and Release Dates For New Pulse Headphones appeared first on VICE.

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Mass Effect fans received crushing news yesterday when BioWare announced it was being shut down, meaning the anticipated fifth installment in the franchise will never be released. As if this isn’t disappointing enough, a leaked trailer appeared on Reddit which showcased how gorgeous the game already was, introduced a new protagonist, and showed fans a glimpse of a beloved returning character. 

‘Mass Effect’ fans can catch a glimpse of what might have been 

In a Reddit post on the Mass Effect sub-reddit, a commenter posted the video, which informs viewers that the following footage uses “pre-production assets” and comes from a small team. It showcases what appears to be a new protagonist, an ex-military man who walks into a crowded space bar and is immediately approached by an unnamed Asari. Next come flashbacks of the new protagonist in combat, as he states that nothing has changed – he kept putting out fires, one after the other, and that was the problem. 

His new line of work, he reveals, is stopping fires before they start, which includes “making choices no one else is willing to make” and going where others might not be willing to go. The two characters appear to have chemistry, as the Asari leans forward to whisper in his ear, warning him that he should be careful, before revealing that she starts the fires. “We know,” states a familiar voice, as Dr. Liara T’Soni lowers her hood, revealing her face to the camera. “That’s why we’re here.”

The scene then devolves into an intergalactic bar fight before the trailer shifts to the title card, which reveals the game would have been officially called Mass Effect: Universe. The trailer also includes clips of the new protagonist in more fight scenes, along with an interaction that appears to be a little more romantic in nature. All in all, the in-engine footage looked stunning, with characters – both human and alien – that appeared realistic and environments that were equally pleasing on the eye. 

Leaked ‘Mass Effect 5’ Trailer Reveals the Game Fans Will Never Get to Play

The Mass Effect franchise first began in 2007, with the first three installments centering around main character Commander Shephard, whose appearance, class, and first name could be customized by the player. The fourth game, Mass Effect: Andromeda, was released in 2017, introduced new characters, including protagonist Scott – or Sara, depending on player choice – Ryder, and a storyline separate from the initial trilogy. Rumors indicated that Shephard might have returned in this fifth game, but the leaked trailer indicates this was not the case. 

With BioWare closing and the new game being canceled, a wait that spanned nearly ten years has come to nothing. Fans can still return to the world of Mass Effect with older titles, with the original trilogy and Andromeda available on PC, Xbox, and Playstation. Hopefully there is some comfort in meeting Shephard or Ryder again. 

The post ‘Mass Effect 5’ Trailer Reportedly Leaks Just One Day After BioWare Announces Closure appeared first on VICE.

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Tempest: A Seafarer’s Sourcebook is back with a remastered and expanded edition that is jam-packed with new resources to add to Dungeons and Dragons 5e and 5.5e adventures.

Nautical Fantasy Sourcebook Delivers New Classes and Species

Dungeon Masters and players who are planning a swashbuckling adventure in the near future may want to consider checking out the resources included in the newly remastered and expanded edition of Tempest: A Seafarer’s Sourcebook.

One of the most exciting parts of the book for players is going to be the character creation options.

“In Tempest, players can create characters using the book’s selection of unique playable species – including the cephalopodic Cuttlefolk and fish-tailed Mermere – and choose from 13 different subclasses. They can then customise their own ship and crew, before embarking on an epic voyage across a vast ocean filled with dozens upon dozens of different islands to visit, as long as they don’t fall afoul of some titanic sea monster, or a gang of bloodthirsty pirates, or a crew of ghastly undead sailors.”

The book features new subclasses including:

• a Witch of the Coven of the Sea – chanting elder rituals of brine and curse
• a Powder Monkey Fighter – armed to the teeth with enough explosives to make kraken calamari
• the College of Shanties for Bards – which allows you to rally your allies and curse your foes via sea shanties
• the Bilge Rat for Rogues – who wounds foes with sharp-tongued sailor insults
• the Captain of the Damned – subclass, which lets Warlocks draw power from the souls of undead sailors

Additionally, the book also contains new playable races and playable subspecies.

Players can create characters by choosing from a roster of fantastical playable species, such as the monkey-esque Bali; feathered and beaked Kara Kara; semi-aquatic Mermeer; cephalopod-like Cuttlefolk; and the newly introduced Foglin, who are spirits of the sea made flesh. Alternatively, there are several subspecies made for existing DnD 5E species, like the electric Stormkin Elves and volcanic Black Sand Dwarves.

The crowdfunding campaign for the sourcebook hit its goal in under an hour and has already raised more than $46,000. Interested gamers can find a pledge tier for either the hardcover book or a digital version.

Be sure to check back soon for lots more Dungeons and Dragons news and updates.

Dungeons and Dragons is available now at local game shops and digitally through D&D Beyond, Roll20, and similar online services. Tempest: A Seafarer’s Sourcebook – Remastered Edition is currently is aiming for a March 2027 release date.

The post Remastered Seafarer’s Sourcebook Delivers 13 Dungeons and Dragons Subclasses appeared first on VICE.

Talk about a game that keeps on giving. Cyberpunk 2077 fans once again have cause to celebrate — or, if your game is heavily modded, cause to curse CD Projekt RED for their apparent refusal to keep their hands off their excellent sci-fi RPG. — Read the rest

The post Cyberpunk 2077 adds dual-wielding and more in third "final update" appeared first on Boing Boing.

If you need any more proof that private equity ruins everything it touches, look no further than the curious case of EA. Electronic Arts has long had a reputation for being the greediest game publisher around, going to great pains to monetize its games to the fullest extent possible and touting a list of killed studios Ted Bundy would be jealous of. — Read the rest

The post EA shuts down BioWare, the studio behind Dragon Age and Mass Effect appeared first on Boing Boing.

With Nintendo Switch Sports Resort set to release October 22 on the Switch 2, players looking to add a little movement to their gaming sessions won’t have to wait long. The game offers two new sporting events, along with a host of returning competitions where players can test their skills and maybe get their heart pumping just a bit. 

On your mark… get set… thumb wrestle?

Thumb wrestling is one of the new sports available in this sequel to Nintendo Switch Sports. Players have to pin their opponent’s thumb down for a full three seconds to win, which might be easier than it sounds. The in-game thumb can grow in size and strength, so the competition could be more fierce than expected. 

Next up on the new scoreboard is skateboarding. Thanks to the Joy-Con 2 controllers, players can pull off a range of fun feats on their board, including grinding rails and pulling off aerial tricks. Players can use the controllers like a mouse by laying them on a flat surface and moving them around to compete in sidewalk surfing. 

These additions bring the total to twelve games in Nintendo Switch Sports Resort, with ten sports from the previous game returning. These include archery, bowling, basketball, golf, and two tennis-centered sports, doubles tennis and table tennis (also known as ping pong). Players can also warm up and get limber with jump rope. 

Players can also choose to play solo or with friends, in person or online. To play with others online, gamers just need a Nintendo Switch Online account and a Nintendo Account. 

‘Nintendo Switch Sports Resort’ Is Bringing Wuhu Island Back With a Major Upgrade

The sports available to compete in aren’t the only way Sports Resort expands on its predecessor. The setting of Wuhu Island is open world, meaning players can explore the location in between games and matches. With that in mind, players can now enjoy a Sightseeing Mode, along with a Free Play option that enables them to skateboard, jet ski, or fly a prop plane around the island. 

Nintendo Switch Sports was first released in 2022. Like Sports Resort, players could use their Joy-Con controllers to actively participate in the games on screen, and it offered solo and multiplayer options. Games like badminton and chambara – or swordplay – were left behind in the original. 

Nintendo Switch Sports Resort will be exclusive to the Switch 2. The first game is also available on the Switch 2, meaning that athletes can get a jump-start on jump rope before Sports Resort arrives. 

The post Everything We Know About ‘Nintendo Switch Sports Resort’ and Its New Features appeared first on VICE.

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A company introducing a new social media account isn’t much of a surprise, especially not a big video game company like EA. But when it takes to X with a dedicated account to announce the return of a fan-favorite franchise, that’s pretty special. 

Under the handle @EASPORTSFN, the developer announced a new Fight Night game is in the works. The solo post features a simple image of a pair of boxing gloves bathed in a spotlight, dangling above an empty boxing ring, with the words “The fight is never over.” The caption is also simple – “To everyone who stayed in our corner: Fight Night is back”, followed by a boxing glove and heart emojis. 

This will be the first Fight Night game since Fight Night Champion was released back in 2011. That’s a fifteen-year wait for sports game fans. As of right now, little is known about the upcoming game except the fact that it’s on the way. Still, after all this time, even this tiny tidbit is thrilling. 

To everyone who stayed in our corner:

Fight Night is coming back. #FightNight pic.twitter.com/THPwtB7hTC

— EA SPORTS Fight Night (@EASPORTSFN) October 20, 2026

Fight Night is back after a hiatus of more than ten years 

The Fight Night series first launched in 2004, following the Knockout Kings series, which began in 1998 and continued until 2003. Fight Night, as its name suggests, puts the player in the shoes of a boxer facing real-life boxing legends like Muhammad Ali and Evander Holyfield. Boxers could duke it out with their opponents using Total Punch Control, where moving the joysticks or using the bumpers determined how punches landed. The game also offered a career mode that let players guide their boxer through the ranks, eventually earning a shot at becoming a world champion. 

Next came Fight Night Round 2 in 2005, which expanded Total Punch Control to introduce the Haymaker, a more powerful punch. Round 2 included Little Mac from Nintendo’s Punch-Out!! franchise as a playable character. Round 3 followed in 2006, and Round 4 came in 2009. The series ended with Fight Night Champion in 2011, which offered a grittier, more intense game meant to highlight the violent nature of real-life boxing. It introduced a new feature called Full-Spectrum Punch Control, which made it even easier to land a match-winning hit. 

For gamers eager for this new installment, Fight Night Champion is still available on Xbox. Hopefully it will pass the time a little faster until EA reveals new information, like a potential release date or year. 

The post EA Sports Is Officially Bringing Back ‘Fight Night’ After 15 Years. Here’s Everything We Know. appeared first on VICE.

When Capcom developed Resident Evil 7: Biohazard over ten years ago, the game looked distinctly different from the one fans know today. Former Capcom manager Miguel Corti recently took to Bluesky to share a wealth of interesting behind-the-scenes facts, including which iconic franchise inspired RE7. 

Resident Evil 7 took a risk in introducing an entirely new set of characters, including Ethan Winters, his wife, Mia, and the Baker family, who gladly welcome the Winters couple into their home. Granted, that home is overrun with mold-covered creatures intent on harming Ethan as he searches for Mia, and the Bakers are also infected, so their hospitality is rather unpleasant. The game was linked to earlier franchise entries by the appearance of Chris Redfield, a leading character introduced in Resident Evil. 

Miguel revealed that an early inspiration for Resident Evil 7 was Naughty Dog’s adrenaline-pumping, horror-infused shooter, The Last of Us. Back then, the focus was on taking elements from TLOU, like its character-driven narrative, especially the crucial, emotional relationship that drove Joel. Like Joel’s loss early in the first game, Ethan’s relationship with, and desperate search for, his missing wife became a core focus of the plot. 

Speaking of Mia, Miguel initially worried players wouldn’t connect with her and that her backstory didn’t make sense. That’s why developers introduced Chris and a revamped Umbrella. The corporation was now known as Blue Umbrella, which opposed the Connections, the mysterious company where Mia worked. 

RE7 could have centered around a narrative-focused, single-player experience

Capcom also hoped to get the same widespread praise The Last of Us received, perhaps because of Resident Evil 6’s reception. While the game sold well, its reviews weren’t great. This mixed reception plays into another disclosure Miguel made on the social media platform – Resident Evil 7 was initially intended to be a direct continuation of RE6, rather than the soft reboot it ended up being. 

According to Miguel, one of the original ideas floating around as RE7 was first taking shape was to bring back Leon Kennedy, a central character in the previous game, along with Resident Evil 2 and 4. Other characters were also on the drawing board, including Jill Valentine and Rebecca Chambers, who hadn’t been playable in a mainline game since the 2002 Resident Evil remaster. 

While Resident Evil 7 underwent a major transformation before its January 2017 release, it returned the franchise to its survival horror roots after the more action-focused fifth and sixth games. It led to a direct sequel, Resident Evil 8: Village, and the revitalized survival horror theme continued with Grace Ashcroft in Resident Evil 9: Requiem. Ethan and Mia seem to have had their day, but they made a real impact in the meantime. 

The post ‘Resident Evil 7’ Was Almost a Completely Different Game, According to Former Capcom Manager appeared first on VICE.

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One of the many changes arriving at Xbox this year is a new approach to cloud gaming and it looks like the team is ready to test out the first paid tier access to the the service for users who don’t have a Game Pass subscription.

All Xbox Cloud Gaming Introductory Price Tiers

A new update for Xbox Insiders offers the first look at how expensive access to Xbox Cloud Gaming hours is going to be for users who are not Game Pass subscribers. This preview gives XBOX Insiders who do not have an active Game Pass subscription an early look at the new option before it rolls out more broadly in November.

During the preview, Xbox Insiders can purchase cloud playtime, stream games on supported devices, and share feedback to help us continue improving the experience.

Cloud playtime is available to Insiders at introductory launch pricing:

• 10hrs for $3.99
• 25hrs for $7.99
• 50hrs for $11.99

According to the announcement, Cloud playtime packs provide an ad-free cloud gaming experience, including shorter wait times, high-quality streaming, and playtime that remains available until it’s used.

This new options adds on to the previous test that allowed Xbox Insiders can also try cloud gaming for free with ads, giving players another option for accessing cloud gaming without a Game Pass subscription.

Gamers should definitely take note that these pricing tiers are described as “introductory launch pricing.” That seems to suggest that the final prices may be higher once the feature becomes available now widely outside of the Xbox Insiders community of testers.

Additionally, many Game Pass subscribers are still waiting to find out when unlimited Cloud Gaming access is going to be removed from the Game Pass Ultimate subscription tier. The announcement about this change explained that the update would impact a very small number of gamers, but there was still some negative reactions to the change on social media.

Be sure to check back soon for lots more Xbox news and updates.

The post Xbox Reveals Cloud Gaming Launch Pricing Tiers appeared first on VICE.

If vibe coding is absolutely going to stick around, I'd rather have it used for goofy video game mods rather than, say, critical infrastructure. I categorically do not want Claude anywhere near the government or cybersecurity… but maybe, just maybe, things like ViceBounce are fine. — Read the rest

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