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3 Cozy Cleaning Games That Are Perfect for Relaxing After a Long Day

Cozy cleaning games are a great alternative to more action-packed fare, letting players unwind with soothing music and simple tasks. Offering a place for everything and the chance to neatly nestle it all in place, here are three cozy cleaning games to turn to when relaxation is the order of the day. 

1. Bao Bao’s Cozy Cleaning Service 

Released on October 29, Bao Bao’s Cleaning Service is a sequel to a previous cozy game featuring the industrious panda, Bao Bao’s Cozy Laundromat. In Cleaning Service, players, solo or in a co-op group of up to three friends, help Bao Bao with his mission to make everything nice and clean. Using a power washer, Bao Bao cleans inside and out, letting the water spray wash away dirt from stone pathways, faded wallpaper, and more. 

Bao Bao’s Cozy Cleaning Service offers adorable 2D pixel art in soft pastel shades, along with a selection of lo-fi songs to listen to while Bao Bao, or Bao Baos if playing with friends, cleans one tile after another. According to the Steam page, players are also encouraged to listen to audiobooks or their own favorite music while playing. There are no timers to worry about when completing a level, so players can relax and take their time. 

The game is available on Steam, Switch, and Xbox. 

2. Fresh Start Cleaning Simulator 

For gamers looking for a bit more to sink their teeth into, there’s Fresh Start Cleaning Simulator. While it’s also designed to be relaxing, the game expands the mission to include cleaning up the environment. Players use a special machine that combines a vacuum with a watering hose to rescue various ecosystems, including beaches, mountain ranges, and rivers, as they explore a colorful 3D world. 

Beyond cleaning up, players can solve puzzles and unearth hidden elements to upgrade travel vehicles, while discovering man-made environments like campsites and shrines. And that’s not all. Players are able to nurture plant life and make friends with the animals they meet while cleaning up their habitats, from pandas and penguins to sea turtles. 

Fresh Start Cleaning Simulator is available on Steam, Switch, Xbox, and PS5.

3. Unpacking

Maybe one of the most popular cozy cleaning games out there, Unpacking’s premise is right in the title. Players unpack their belongings in eight different homes, each marking a new chapter in the character’s life. The game starts in a childhood bedroom, then moves to the first apartment the character shares with a roommate. It culminates in the character’s own family home, where a new chapter is about to begin. 

Like Bao Bao’s Cleaning Service, this is a relaxing 2D pixel-art experience with no need to rush. As they unpack in each home, players learn more about the character whose belongings they put away. Another game with a relaxing soundtrack, Unpacking focuses on organizing and decorating, leaving players with a strong sense of satisfaction when the last box is empty. 

The post 3 Cozy Cleaning Games That Are Perfect for Relaxing After a Long Day appeared first on VICE.

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From power-washing with a panda to unpacking a new home, these three cozy games make everyday chores surprisingly relaxing.
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Nintendo’s Original ‘Donkey Kong’ Artwork Just Sold for an Absolutely Insane Amount

Nintendo fans looking to snag original artwork for their collection: one unique piece is off the market. A poster for the original Donkey Kong game recently sold at auction for more than $300,000, making it the reigning champ of expensive video game art ever sold at auction. 

The poster features Donkey Kong himself atop a series of steel girders, the exact place one would expect to find a large gorilla. Angrily wielding a barrel over his head, Donkey Kong appears to threaten the overalls-wearing man standing on the girders below him. Behind Donkey Kong, blocked from escape, a blonde woman named Pauline swoons in a tattered pink dress, understandably upset by the whole situation. 

The man in overalls is Mario of “It’s-a me!” fame, and this poster actually features his first-ever public appearance. Known at the time merely as “Jumpman”, Mario has gone on to become one of the most iconic video game characters of all time and certainly one of the most famous plumbers. He has starred in or appeared in over 300 games, including Super Mario Galaxy and its 2010 sequel, Super Mario Galaxy 2. 

Donkey Kong went on to have a big career of his own, featuring in solo titles like Donkey Kong Country Returns and starring alongside Mario in the Mario Kart, Super Smash Bros., and Mario Party games. The poster at auction was for the first Donkey Kong game, which was released in 1981. Drawn by artist Leslie Cabarga, it was intended as a promotional flyer for arcades. 

Rare ‘Donkey Kong’ Poster Sells for $329,400, Setting a Video Game Art Record

According to a press release from Landry Pop Auctions, an auction brand centered on comics and pop culture, the Donkey Kong poster sold for $329,400, making it the most expensive video game art ever sold. The title was previously held by original artwork for the Prince of Persia game, which sold for $63,000. So the gap between the two sales is roughly the cost of a starter Lamborghini. 

Incredibly, for original artwork of such a famous franchise, especially for a piece that would end up selling for over $300,000, it seems like the poster was almost thrown away. Landry Pop Auctions said a former Nintendo employee named Donna Darbous rescued the poster from the would-be disposal pile.

For anyone itching for a bit of nostalgia, thanks to this astronomical sale, Donkey Kong and Mario games are available on Nintendo consoles, including both the Switch and the Switch 2, including Donkey Kong Bonanza and Super Mario Odyssey. 

A 1981 Donkey Kong promotional poster is now the most expensive piece of original video game art ever sold at auction

Featuring Mario's first appearance, it sold for $329,400 pic.twitter.com/emW4D8p4Kb

— ScreenTime (@screentime) October 29, 2026

The post Nintendo’s Original ‘Donkey Kong’ Artwork Just Sold for an Absolutely Insane Amount appeared first on VICE.

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A rare 1981 Donkey Kong poster featuring Mario's debut was nearly thrown away before selling for a record-breaking $329,400.
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Hackers Are Using Fake PS5 Emulators to Steal Gamers’ Personal Information

Scammers online have found a new target within the gaming community, according to a report featured on IGN. Those who use emulators to run PS5-exclusive games on their PC are at risk, as this can leave them open to sneaky malware. 

For those unfamiliar, emulators let a system copy another system’s behavior, such as a gaming PC acting like a PlayStation console. This allows users to play games on their PC which might only be available on a PS5, like Marvel’s Wolverine or Ghosts of Yotei. Games can be “sideloaded”, meaning the official PlayStation Store is bypassed when downloading a game. 

Think of it as Splenda versus sugar in a cup of coffee. Splenda is the emulator, copying the behaviors of sugar, and tricking the coffee drinker into thinking they’re enjoying a boost of sugary sweetness in their coffee. 

PC Gamers Are Being Warned About a Sneaky New Scam Involving PS5 Emulators

According to IGN, scammers are hiding behind two popular emulation projects and then apparently launch an infostealer. As the name suggests, infostealers act like art thieves breaking into a museum, stealing personal information like credit card data and important passwords instead of fine art. Even worse, the malware used here is so sophisticated that it not only evades detection but also cleans up after itself. It even weaves into Windows Defender protections, meaning it sneaks into the files Windows Defender is built to ignore, like system restore points. 

If scammers steal this data, it could have serious, long-term consequences. Beyond stolen passwords used to access private accounts like Amazon, there are also financial risks. Scammers could use this data to open fraudulent credit cards or drain funds from an existing bank account. 

Emulation users are prime targets because they are accustomed to downloading outside software from sites like GitHub, an online platform that hosts a wide array of code files. Because they likely trust a familiar source, they don’t think twice about running the software they download on their own computers. 

Emulators seem to have spiked recently, in part because the tricky software now works better than before. Gamers without a PlayStation console can run previously incompatible software on their PC, letting them play games that might otherwise be unavailable. PlayStation consoles are also at risk of jailbreaks, meaning emulators can run Nintendo or older PSP games that are no longer compatible with current hardware. 

The post Hackers Are Using Fake PS5 Emulators to Steal Gamers’ Personal Information appeared first on VICE.

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Are the Rumors About ‘Star Wars Battlefront 3’ True? Here’s Everything We Know.

According to online reports, fans of the Star Wars: Battlefront franchise possibly have good reason to celebrate. A third Battlefront game could be on the horizon, with multiple sources suggesting EA is bringing two major studios together on a new project.

EA has confirmed that two of its internal studios, Respawn Entertainment and DICE Studios, will work together on a currently unnamed project, at least, an unnamed project, according to official Electronic Arts sources. Online rumors first surfaced last week, when Joe Brammer, CEO of gaming studio Bulkhead, replied to a post on X on October 19 that referenced a potential new Battlefront game. 

The 25 Years Later website has since aggregated various reports swirling online, including one from the Xbox Achievements outlet, which cites an internal memo between two EA executives, Cam Weber and Dave Tinson. The memo appears to confirm the partnership between Respawn Entertainment and DICE, without going into detail about what the two studios will be working on. 

‘Star Wars Battlefront 3’ Could Finally Be Happening, According to New Reports

One line from the memo seems particularly exciting: “In addition to our future Battlefield titles, we’ll be bringing together our Respawn and DICE studios to collaborate on a future project.” The phrase “in addition” certainly implies more to come, although Star Wars wasn’t mentioned by name, or even a whisper of it. 

Variety dove into the murky waters next, saying multiple sources have confirmed that the upcoming collab will be the next Star Wars: Battlefront game. This does seem promising, but EA hasn’t confirmed anything as of October 28. But with so much speculation online, it’s hard to ignore the possibility that a new game could be on the way. 

The Battlefront franchise first launched with Pandemic Studios in 2005, then EA and DICE rebooted it in 2015. Star Wars: Battlefront II followed in 2017, offering both single-player and multiplayer options. Players can customize their characters, including cosmetics, which faction the character belongs to, and even use emotes. The story spans decades in the Star Wars universe, focusing on the period between Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens. 

With almost ten years since the last game, the possibility of Battlefront III is especially welcome news. Although it’s not clear when, or if, EA will confirm these rumors, it’s definitely worth keeping an eye on. 

The post Are the Rumors About ‘Star Wars Battlefront 3’ True? Here’s Everything We Know. appeared first on VICE.

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Nearly a decade after the last Battlefront release, a new collaboration between two major EA studios is fueling rumors online.
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The Entire ‘Tomb Raider’ Survivor Trilogy Is Finally Available on Nintendo Switch 2

Tomb Raider fans can now take the current trilogy on the road, whether that’s a simple trip to visit family for the holidays or following in Lara’s footsteps on a dangerous mission to discover the lost city of Atlantis. The three most recent games, starting with the 2013 Tomb Raider and known collectively as the Survivor trilogy, are now available on Nintendo Switch 2. 

Tomb Raider (2013) and its sequels, Rise of the Tomb Raider (2015) and Shadow of the Tomb Raider (2018), are now all available on the Nintendo Switch 2, with the 2018 game arriving just last week. The previous games in the trilogy have been available on the Switch 2 for some time. Tomb Raider was added on November 18, 2025, with Rise of the Tomb Raider following in June of this year. 

In the 2013 Tomb Raider, players meet a new version of Lara with a different background, including her relationship with her family and with archaeology itself. While searching for the lost city of Yamatai, Lara is shipwrecked on a remote island. She begins the game as a neophyte archaeologist, recently graduated from university, with little to no combat training – but ends the game wielding her famous dual pistols. 

Nintendo Switch 2 Just Got the Complete ‘Tomb Raider’ Trilogy, and It’s Perfect for Playing on the Go

Rise of the Tomb Raider finds a more experienced Lara still trying to solve the mysteries of her time in Yamatai. This time she finds herself in Syria, searching for the city of Kitzeh. When she stumbles upon the tomb of the Prophet of Constantinople, a key piece of the puzzle, she finds more than the remnants of a previous society one might expect on an archaeological dig. Instead, she pulls on a thread that unravels what she thought she knew about her late father. 

The Survivor trilogy culminates with Shadow of the Tomb Raider, where Lara travels to South America and discovers the secret city of Paititi after her plane crashes in the Peruvian jungle. Lara has already had an especially tough time this go-around, considering she accidentally wiped the Mexican island of Cozumel off the map. Who hasn’t snatched up a magical artifact better left alone, only to trigger a devastating tsunami? In Paititi, Lara must find another artifact that will play a significant role in stopping apocalyptic events she inadvertently set in motion. 

The games are available individually and grouped together in the Tomb Raider: Definitive Survivor Trilogy bundle. With all three Survivor trilogy games now on Nintendo Switch 2, the series joins PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and macOS. Tomb Raider players certainly have a treasure trove of platforms to choose from.

The post The Entire ‘Tomb Raider’ Survivor Trilogy Is Finally Available on Nintendo Switch 2 appeared first on VICE.

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With the arrival of 'Shadow of the Tomb Raider,' Nintendo Switch 2 owners can now play all three games from Lara Croft's modern Survivor trilogy.
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6 Real Historical Figures Who Appeared in the ‘Assassin’s Creed’ Games

With a new Assassin’s Creed game coming next year, fans have a new adventure to look forward to in the open-world series. Little is known for sure about the game so far, apart from its working title Assassin’s Creed: Codename Hexe, but players can guess one thing based on previous entries in the franchise. 

Players will likely meet real historical figures from the time period 

Although this new game may deviate from the formula, real historical figures from the game’s time period often play significant roles in Assassin’s Creed. From Ancient Greece to Renaissance Italy and feudal Japan, players can interact with real-life kings, philosophers, and more. 

Robert IV of Sablé & Richard I 

In the first Assassin’s Creed game, released in 2007, players control an assassin named Altaïr, who fails a crucial mission to retrieve an artifact called the Apple of Eden, resulting in the death of a fellow assassin. As a result, he is tasked with killing nine people in order to redeem himself. One of these would-be victims is Robert IV of Sable, who becomes one of the game’s first main antagonists. 

Both the fictional Robert and the historical figure were Grand Master of the Knights Templar, a military order dedicated to protecting those embarking on a crusade in Jerusalem. In Assassin’s Creed, Robert is behind a vast conspiracy that threatens to enslave the world through the Apple of Eden. He betrays his king, Richard I, and is killed by Altaïr in a trial by combat. In real life, Robert was immensely loyal to Richard I and died of natural causes, although the specifics are unknown. 

Richard I was also a real historical figure, most popularly known by his nickname, the Lionheart. The son of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry II, he was dedicated to the Crusades and spent more time in Jerusalem than in England. In the game, he serves as an arbiter of justice, suggesting a duel between Robert and Altaïr to determine who is telling the truth. 

Leonardo da Vinci & the Borgias 

The famous artist and inventor features in both Assassin’s Creed II and Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood, the third game. In Assassin’s Creed II, a younger Leonardo helps the main character, Ezio, by supplying him with important gear and upgrades, like the double blade, which lets Ezio take out two enemies at once. In Brotherhood, Leonardo is under the thumb of Cesare Borgia, making him harder to find, and he gives Ezio missions to complete. 

Cesare Borgia is the primary antagonist in Brotherhood, serving as the catalyst for Ezio losing his home and the death of Ezio’s uncle, Mario. He is also the game’s final boss, facing off against Ezio in an epic battle that ends with Ezio being thrown off a castle’s battlements. In real life, Cesare was a military expert who served at the papal court of his father, Pope Alexander VI, whose given name was Rodrigo Borgia. Cesare came close to creating a centralized Borgia kingdom in Italy and inspired Machiavelli’s treatise on ruling, The Prince.

Rordrigo  

Rodrigo is also a central character in the Assassin’s Creed franchise, first as the main antagonist in Assassin’s Creed II. Like his son, Cesare, he is the final boss of that game, but unlike Cesare, he survives and resurfaces in Brotherhood. Ezio chooses to spare Rodrigo’s life, since killing him won’t bring his family back – a particularly magnanimous choice, considering Rodrigo is responsible for the false arrest and subsequent execution of Ezio’s father and brothers. In Brotherhood, Rodrigo is older and tired, but that doesn’t stop him from trying to kill Cesare with a poisoned apple. In real life, Rodrigo served as the Pope from 1492 to 1503. His papacy was anything but dull, including a siege of Rome by the French armies and multiple assassination attempts. 

Yasuke 

In the most recent Assassin’s Creed game, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, Yasuke is one of two playable main characters. He arrives in Kyoto as Diogo and is forced to serve Oda Nobunaga. Renamed Yasuke, he trains to become a samurai and eventually becomes a ronin, a samurai warrior with no master to follow. He reaches out to Naoe, the game’s other protagonist, and asks if they can work together on her quest for revenge.

In real life, Yasuke was a part of Nobunaga’s inner circle and is considered by some historians to be the first samurai born outside of Japan. Born in Africa, he was initially the bodyguard of a Jesuit priest sent to Asia by Pope Gregory XIII, before serving Nobunaga. Oda Nobunaga also appears in Shadows as a complex character who both invades Naoe’s village and acts as a true leader who values what a person can do over their appearance, as Yasuke sees. 

The post 6 Real Historical Figures Who Appeared in the ‘Assassin’s Creed’ Games appeared first on VICE.

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From Renaissance Italy to feudal Japan, Ubisoft's historical adventures have featured real kings, artists, warriors, and political figures.
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‘Silent Hill: Townfall’ Is a Worthy Successor to ‘Silent Hill 2’ and ‘Silent Hill f,’ but It Has One Big Problem

The Silent Hill franchise seems unstoppable lately. Recent news about the Silent Hill remake is making fans hopeful about a 2027 release date, especially since developers have referenced a “one game a year” release model to keep fans hooked. Fans were also fed with the recent Silent Hill Townfall, which was released just a month ago on September 24, 2026. 

Staying true to its annual release date premise, Konami released Silent Hill f last year, following the success of its Silent Hill 2 remake. Both games received plenty of gaming accolades, with Silent Hill f receiving a Golden Joystick nomination for Best Storytelling and Luke Roberts earning a BAFTA Games Awards nod for his performance as main character James Sunderland. 

The Silent Hill 2 remake followed James as he returned to the town of Silent Hill, in search of his wife, Mary, who sent him a letter bidding him to find her there. Despite the fact that Mary lost her battle with a mysterious illness three years ago, James travels back to Silent Hill, hoping against hope she’ll be there. The question of Mary’s appearance – or lack thereof – in the town remains unanswered until the end, but James certainly isn’t lonely on the way, encountering disturbing, sinister creatures along with companions like Laura, Maria, and Angela. 

Silent Hill f came next, centering around teenager Shimizu Hinako, a young woman living in 1960s Japan. This game was the first mainline offering to take place outside the United States, though it wasn’t the first to be set outside of Silent Hill itself. Hinako also finds herself stalked by terrifying monsters, along with a mysterious character typically referred to as Fox Mask, after the elegant vulpine mask hiding his face. She finds reality – and herself – crumbling under the pressure of the society she lives in, as she is torn between her fog-shrouded hometown and the Dark Shrine of another world. 

Similar to its mainline predecessor, Silent Hill Townfall is set beyond the Silent Hill town limits sign, and in fact, beyond the borders of the U.S. Townfall takes place in St. Amelia, a little town set on a Scottish island. It follows Simon, who arrives in St. Amelia without any memory of how he arrived there, following the urging of a mysterious voice who says only he can help the townspeople. Unsurprisingly, plenty of monsters abound here, too, though this game has a different approach to dealing with them. While stealth has always been an option, Townfall turned it into a core gameplay mechanic. 

How ‘Silent Hill: Townfall’ Compares to the Franchise’s Recent Horror Hits

Where all three games shine is their story. Each delves into complex topics of their own, with common themes of grief, guilt, and struggling to align the pieces of their own broken mind. Silent Hill 2 and Silent Hill f offer memorable, unique narratives. Townfall is able to stand with them, delivering a story that unfolds slowly, revealing more about Simon and other characters until the full horror is exposed. 

Similarly, these stories were brought to life by stellar voice acting performances. Alongside Luke Roberts, both Jovan Adepo as Simon and Konatsu Kato as Hinako gave performances which will undoubtedly linger with players long after the credits roll. 

All three games are upheld by excellent performances beyond the main characters, too. Giana Kiehl delivers a heartbreaking turn as Angela in Silent Hill 2, while Natsuki Ōsaki brings crystal-clear life to Hinako’s friend, Shu. In Townfall, Jovan is joined by Terry O’Quinn as Richard, that mysterious voice, and Kezia Burrows as Zoe. 

While Townfall holds its own in terms of story and performances, where some might find it falling behind just a little is the stealth mechanic. For the most part, it’s an intriguing challenge to figure out just how to get past the creatures roaming the streets of St. Amelia. Where it becomes difficult to an unpleasant degree is the level which centers around escaping from the Weight. A larger creature than any Simon encounters before, it’s also faster and far more unrelenting, with a pitiless one-hit kill mechanic. 

The Weight also appears to be very fond of Simon, in that it lingers far too close to any hiding place he might choose, which means it’s difficult to sneak past him and get where the player needs to go. And if it does succeed in killing Simon, it often spawns right in front of him when the player returns from the death screen. While Townfall does feature a time loop as a crucial plot point, being stuck in this particular loop is more frustrating than fascinating. 

Still, Townfall is undoubtedly a worthy successor to the Silent Hill 2 remake and Silent Hill f, especially because of its strong story and voice acting performances. For anyone eagerly awaiting more news of the Silent Hill remake, it’s a great choice. 

The post ‘Silent Hill: Townfall’ Is a Worthy Successor to ‘Silent Hill 2’ and ‘Silent Hill f,’ but It Has One Big Problem appeared first on vice.

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We compare the three recent Silent Hill releases, examining their stories, performances, and gameplay to see how Townfall measures up.
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‘Mass Effect’ Voice Actors Show Support for Fans and Developers After BioWare Shutdown

Although Mass Effect fans may have an uphill battle on their hands to save the franchise, they are far from alone. Both Commander Shepard voice actors recently went live on Instagram to share their support, not just for disappointed fans, but for the BioWare employees who lost their jobs when the studio was shut down. 

Just after fans received news of the BioWare shutdown, a leaked trailer showcased what might have been. It introduced a new main character, while also highlighting the return of Dr. Liara T’Soni, who has been featured in Mass Effect games since the beginning of the franchise.

Jennifer Hale, the voice actress behind the female iteration of Commander Shephard, responded to an X post featuring the trailer. She shared support for both the fans and the developers, writing that she still held out hope that magic would happen, as “this community and you Incredible devs deserve that and more.” Replies to her post included the #SaveMassEffect hashtag, which spearheads the movement fans have brought to life on social media, including X, Reddit, and Instagram. 

‘Mass Effect’ Fans Get Support From Both Commander Shepards Amid Franchise Uncertainty

Jennifer then took to Instagram Live, where she was joined by Mark Meer, who voiced the male iteration of Commander Shepard. Meer also shared his support and sympathy for BioWare employees and Mass Effect fans alike, saying the shutdown was a “massive loss for Edmonton”, where the studio was based, and for the video game industry itself. “And, of course,” he added, “I feel very bad for the fans.”

While it remains to be seen just what will happen to the Mass Effect franchise, it’s certainly very clear how much these games and the characters matter to people. One commenter on Jennifer’s Instagram Live shared that Mass Effect 2 was their favorite game of all time, and many others shared how much the games had an impact on their lives. Another comment shared that the Mass Effect games were something they and their husband bonded over. 

At the very least, hopefully fans will take comfort in knowing that both Commander Shepards stand behind them. The #SaveMassEffect hashtag has reached over 100,000 users on X, and the attendant Change.org petition currently has 252,720 signatures. And fan passion has made it to Times Square, with a billboard featuring the hashtag went up on October 26 with the aim of remaining up all day. 

The Mass Effect franchise will certainly live on in the hearts of fans, and the games are available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox for anyone who is still looking for an adventure among the stars. 

The post ‘Mass Effect’ Voice Actors Show Support for Fans and Developers After BioWare Shutdown appeared first on vice.

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‘Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis’ Gets New Gameplay Trailer and Official Release Date

After thirty years in the tomb raiding business, Lara Croft is set to return soon in the upcoming Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis. While her next adventure isn’t quite as soon as players might have hoped, a new preview trailer revealed at the TR30 event, showcasing the gameplay audiences can expect next year. 

Now slated for release on February 12, 2027, as confirmed by the new teaser trailer,Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis is a remake of the first Tomb Raider game released in 1996. This will be the second time Lara Croft’s debut will receive the remake treatment, following Tomb Raider: Anniversary in 2007. Anniversary tied into Tomb Raider: Legend, released in 2006, and served as part of the Legend trilogy, which culminated in Tomb Raider: Underworld. 

The new teaser trailer was released at the TR30 event – also known as Tomb Raider Day – in Derby, England, alongside a massive celebration taking place at MCM London. It begins with a sweeping shot of Lara climbing a cliff face as casually as most people take a flight of stairs, an activity Tomb Raider fans will be familiar with watching her do. Following shots of beautiful, remote ruins, players are treated to what look to be a mix of gameplay and cutscene clips. 

‘Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis’ Just Got a New Trailer, and Fans Have a Lot to Look Forward To

The gameplay looks like it’s going to be just what the doctor ordered, provided the prognosis was needing a traditional Tomb Raider fix. This new footage sees Lara pushing a boulder roughly the size of a baby elephant, following a groove in the floor, undoubtedly in pursuit of solving a puzzle. Players also catch a glimpse of her famous acrobatics, including flipping on bars protruding from the wall, executing flips in the middle of gunfights, and diving into pools of water. 

There are also teases of combat beyond Lara’s dueling pistols. The trailer offers glimpses of her fighting against other people, along with a leopard. Both of these enemies would be bad enough, but the Legacy of Atlantis trailer also showcases the famous cat mummies, friendly creatures also featured in the original 1996 game and Legend. 

The end of the trailer shows that Legacy of Atlantis will be released in three editions, including Deluxe and Collector’s editions. If gamers pre-order any edition, they will receive Lara’s Survivor outfit from the 2013 Tomb Raider reboot series. Players who grab the Deluxe or Collector’s editions will get 48-hour early access before the February 12 release date. 

While the delay until next year is definitely disappointing, it looks like Tomb Raider fans have a lot to look forward to when it comes to Lara’s next escapade.

The post ‘Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis’ Gets New Gameplay Trailer and Official Release Date appeared first on vice.

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A new anniversary trailer showcases classic Tomb Raider gameplay, updated visuals, and a February 2027 release date for the remake.
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Steam Just Rolled Out a Major New Discovery Feature. Here’s How It Works.

Considering the wealth of games available on Steam, especially ones that just released or are still ahead, it can be easy for prospective players to lose track of games they might enjoy. Steam recently released a feature to make it a little easier, offering a glimpse into the recent future while also highlighting brand-new games. 

Steam just introduced the Personal Calendar feature, which collects new or upcoming games that a player might enjoy and presents them in one place. The lists are based on two factors, including time spent and similar profiles. If a player spends hours on a particular game, similar offerings will show up on the Calendar, and the player can then find other users whose profiles show comparable interests and playtimes. 

The Personal Calendar is updated daily to make sure players are getting the latest information. The page is broken down into three categories – games released in the last month, those released in the past seven days, and upcoming games. Upcoming games are broken down into games releasing in the upcoming week, or those releasing in the next two months. 

Steam Just Made It Easier to Keep Track of Upcoming Games With a New Feature

This feature can be further customized depending on what the user is looking for, including how many games are being presented in each category, which ranges from 10 games to 500. Users can also use a Tag Selector to filter out games by category, or choose to hide, show, or focus on games they may have previously wishlisted. There are also checkboxes which give them the option to hide games they already own, or ones that are out in early access. 

There are two ways users can take a look at their Personal Calendar. Available on both the desktop and mobile apps, along with the website, there is a preview widget right on the Steam homepage, which offers a weekly schedule of recent and upcoming games. Players can see two potential choices under each day of the week. To see the full page, users can either click the “Explore more” button above the widget or select “Explore my Calendar” under the Recommendations tab at the top of the page. 

The Personal Calendar has been in the works for quite a while now. It was first released on Steam Labs in October of 2025, where it underwent several changes in development, including the addition of the filtering tool. If users are concerned about being trapped in a bubble of games too similar to ones they have already played, the Steam Community page says they worked very hard to avoid that. The Personal Calendar will draw on a wide range of games in order to deliver more options. 

The post Steam Just Rolled Out a Major New Discovery Feature. Here’s How It Works. appeared first on vice.

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Canceled ‘Mass Effect 5’ Details Leak Online. Here’s Everything We Know.

For fans mourning the loss of the fifth Mass Effect game, which is currently shelved due to the BioWare shutdown, learning more information about what could have been might be bittersweet. Still, for those interested, content creator Dantics has revealed more information on what would have been Mass Effect: Universe. 

Fans learn what might have been had the new ‘Mass Effect’ game survived 

Gamers learned that BioWare was shutting down last week. The studio was behind several beloved franchises, including classic RPGs like Dragon Age and Baldur’s Gate, sci-fi offerings Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic and the online multiplayer Star Wars: the Old Republic, and shooter MDK2. It was also the home of the Mass Effect franchise, which spanned a total of seven games. The most recent mainline game was Mass Effect: Andromeda, which released back in 2017. 

So after a wait of nearly ten years, fans were met with disappointment as they found out about the BioWare shutdown, which meant the planned Mass Effect game will likely not see the light of day. Still, the buzz surrounding the game has not let up, with a leaked trailer surfacing on Reddit last week. The video revealed a new main character alongside a returning fan favorite, along with the reported title of the scrapped game – Mass Effect: Universe. 

‘Mass Effect 5’ Was Going to Be Very Different, According to New Insider Details

On his X account, @DanticsOfficial, Dantics says he was providing feedback during game development and has information on what the game was shaping up to be. The game would have been set over 600 years after the Reaper War, an event which took place in Mass Effect 3 and offers the player four crucial choices at its denouement. Instead of another war, the latest game would have seen “a galactic Cold War” against a mysterious enemy. 

Dantics goes on to share that the galaxy would be divided into three separate factions, with humans allied together with alien species like the Krogan, the Batarians, and more. Along with alliances between council members, the Geth – synthetic humanoid machines – are becoming a powerful force, constructing megastructures, which serve as space stations, transit hubs, and other important structures in the Mass Effect universe. 

Other important information centers around the main character who would have been introduced in this new game. According to Dantics’ information, the player would take control of an N7 agent, part of an elite military corps in the franchise. Similar to the main characters in previous Mass Effect games, the new main character would have been customizable. The character would have received an experimental implant, which would have made them unique. 

As for established characters, Liara would have returned as “an incredibly powerful Asari Matriarch”. Liara was introduced in the first Mass Effect game, released in 2007, and has appeared both in the main trilogy and spin-off games, including a cameo in Andromeda, through audio logs the player can discover. 

In terms of missions and combat, missions would have followed the formula of the first three games, handcrafted to present unique challenges, cutscenes, and dialogue. But this new game would have been unique in its approach, with a “Hitman-style” freedom, possibly meaning the player would have been able to choose which they do first. As for combat, the main character is described in this X post as a combination of John Wick and James Bond, which suggests both melee combat and weapons use. 

The future of the Mass Effect franchise is currently up in the air, as it’s possible another studio could pick it up, and the fanbase is still very passionate about saving it. With these reported elements revealed, fans may be especially hopeful that Mass Effect will be revived somewhere else. 

The post Canceled ‘Mass Effect 5’ Details Leak Online. Here’s Everything We Know. appeared first on vice.

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The reportedly canceled sequel would have featured a galactic Cold War, a customizable N7 protagonist, and a much older Liara T'Soni.
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Happy Fallout Day! Here’s How Bethesda Is Celebrating the Wasteland’s Biggest Holiday.

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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Bethesda is celebrating the franchise's biggest day with special 'Fallout 76' events, free in-game items, and a preview of upcoming content.
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‘Phantom Blade Zero’ Looks Absolutely Incredible in Its Final Launch Trailer

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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The upcoming action RPG shows off its impressive combat and visuals ahead of its October 29 launch, with physical editions planned for 2027.
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Everything We Know About ‘The Dead We Knew,’ Steam’s New Open-World Zombie Survival Game

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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With over 350,000 wishlists, 'The Dead We Knew' has entered Steam Early Access with base building, co-op gameplay, and deadly zombies.
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‘Disney Dreamlight Valley’ Just Revealed 3 More Characters Coming in Its Next Expansion

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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From new characters and underwater exploration to pirate ships and a November release date, here's what's coming to the valley.
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‘Dead by Daylight’ and ‘Diablo IV’ Have Joined Forces for a New Crossover. Here’s Everything We Know.

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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The new collaboration brings six cosmetics inspired by 'Diablo,' including terrifying transformations featuring Lilith, Mephisto, and Belial.
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‘Mass Effect 5’ Trailer Reportedly Leaks Just One Day After BioWare Announces Closure

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. 

Screenshot: EA
Screenshot: EA

‘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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Alleged pre-production footage reveals a new protagonist, the return of Liara T'Soni, and a glimpse of the canceled sci-fi RPG.

Screenshot: EA
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Everything We Know About ‘Nintendo Switch Sports Resort’ and Its New Features

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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Nintendo's new sports game introduces skateboarding, thumb wrestling, and the ability to freely explore Wuhu Island between events.
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EA Sports Is Officially Bringing Back ‘Fight Night’ After 15 Years. Here’s Everything We Know.

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.

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‘Resident Evil 7’ Was Almost a Completely Different Game, According to Former Capcom Manager

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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Early plans for 'Resident Evil 7' reportedly included returning characters, a direct connection to 'RE6,' and inspiration from 'The Last of Us.'
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