Devil May Cry: Peak of Combat, a mobile game spin-off of the popular action series, is set for a global release in 2023, with registration now open for its closed beta. Developed by NebulaJoy Games, this free-to-play action role-playing game allows players to take on the roles of Dante, Lady, Vergil, Nero, and other characters. The game features both single-player and multiplayer modes with hack-and-slash gameplay, platforming, and dungeon-crawling elements.
Each character has unique abilities, weapons, and fighting powers, and players can form teams of up to three characters. The game also includes gacha mechanics, materials for crafting, and raid bosses to defeat. While there has been no news about a new mainline game entry from Capcom, Peak of Combat is the latest installment in the series. Both iOS and Android users can register for the closed beta on the game’s official website.
Genshin Impact Version 3.5 introduces a host of exciting features, including two new playable characters and the return of the Windblume Festival.
Dehya, a five-star Pyro Claymore user, makes her debut as a member of the Sumeru storyline. With her Fiery Sanctum fields, Dehya can inflict AoE Pyro damage on enemies, while also shielding other party members from damage. Her elemental burst, the Blazing Lioness state, allows her to deal extra fire damage with her fists.
Mika, a four-star Cryo Polearm user, is another new playable character. Armed with a crossbow, he can attack enemies at range, while also boosting the attack weapon of other party members. Mika’s elemental skill increases the physical damage of other party members, while his elemental burst, the Eagleplume state, heals party members and enables them to gain health from performing normal attacks.
The Windblume Festival is back, featuring a range of mini-games, including photography challenges, a rhythm game, and timed racing challenges. Participating in the festival earns you the exclusive four-star Claymore, the Mailed Flower. You can also engage in battles via the Vibro-Crystal Verification challenge event, using Transmitter crystals with Receiver crystals to gain an advantage in battle and earn rewards.
Other updates include a limited-edition mode of the Genius Invocation TCG called Heated Battle Mode, which is now available. Completing each Archon Quest grants you an extra Intertwined Fate, and Prime Gaming members who link their Prime account to Genshin Impact will receive the “Wings of the Starlit Feast” reward.
A VFX artist has created a deepfake trailer for season 4 of Netflix’s The Witcher, replacing Henry Cavill’s Geralt of Rivia with Liam Hemsworth.
The video, created by Matthew Anthony, showcases Hemsworth’s face digitally superimposed over Cavill’s in various scenes from the show. However, it doesn’t feature any of the complicated fight scenes from the series that Cavill performed.
The artist has also created other deepfake videos, including one where Ben Affleck would play Geralt. It was announced last year that Hemsworth would replace Cavill as Geralt in season 4 after Cavill’s departure following season 3.
Cavill has passed the torch with reverence and enthusiasm for Hemsworth’s take on the character.
Scoop: Microsoft has an internal Minecraft demo where, instead of manually mining/building, etc., you can describe your vision to an AI (like a ChatGPT prompt) and watch your creation come to life. More details here. https://t.co/WHLKS9DGNQ
According to a report from Semafor, Microsoft has developed an AI-powered Minecraft demo that allows players to control the game by giving natural language commands to the system instead of building everything themselves. The demo reportedly utilizes advanced AI technology, although not the Prometheus system used in the newly revealed Bing chat service developed with OpenAI.
The report highlights the difficulty of applying natural language commands to Minecraft due to the various ways a player could build any particular object. An AI might construct something like a car differently from a human, or even use innovative methods that nobody had considered before.
However, sources suggest that Microsoft has no immediate plans to introduce this feature to the public version of the game. Therefore, players who struggle with building will not be able to rely on AI assistance to create structures like the Eiffel Tower with ease.
AI-generated content is a hot topic at present, with Microsoft investing billions in the technology earlier this year following a round of layoffs. OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, is exploring the use of AI in producing music, books, and code, among other things. However, the use of AI-generated art remains controversial, as it often relies on content created by numerous individuals without permission.
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund has once again increased its stake in Nintendo, making it the company’s largest outside shareholder. The sovereign wealth fund, via its Savvy Games Group division, originally held a little over 6% of the video game company’s shares at the start of 2022. As of now, it has an 8.26% stake in Nintendo, surpassing Japan’s Government Pension Investment Fund but still behind Nintendo, which owns 10.35% of its shares.
Industry consultant Serkan Toto told Bloomberg that he wouldn’t be surprised if PIF continues to increase its stake in Nintendo in the future. The country’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been leading an effort to invest in the video game industry, with a $38 billion budget allocated to Savvy. The fund has been on a major spending spree, including a recent $265 million investment in the esports organization VSPO, backed by Tencent.
Despite these investments, the Saudi government’s stance on human rights has been criticized, particularly in the wake of the murder of US-based journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who had been critical of the government. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been accused of ordering Khashoggi’s death after he entered the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in 2018. Nevertheless, the PIF has also invested $1 billion in European giant Embracer Group and acquired stakes in EA, Activision-Blizzard, and Take-Two Interactive.
Tetris has had a presence on almost every video game console since it was first introduced in the 1980s, but the story behind the game is one of guns, espionage, and high-speed car chases, according to Apple’s upcoming adaptation.
A trailer for Tetris, which details how American video game salesman Henk Rogers (played by a gloriously mustached Taron Egerton) managed to secure the global distribution rights for the game, which was originally created by Soviet software engineer Alexey Pajitnov in 1984.Tetris was a global hit when it eventually escaped the Iron Curtain of Russia, thanks to its accessible gameplay, catchy soundtrack, and striking design. As seen in the trailer, it was packaged with Nintendo’s original Game Boy, a move that helped the handheld console sell millions of units around the world and make suppliers of AA batteries very happy in the process.
A lot of wheeling and dealing was done behind the scenes, and while Apple’s film likely embellishes some details for dramatic effect–like KGB goons on the warpath–the legal battle behind the game still makes for fascinating reading.
This isn’t the first time that Tetris has been featured in a film either, as the game had a big role in Adam Sandler’s Pixels back in 2015. At one point, an “epic sci-fi” film adaptation of Tetris was announced in 2018, but since then, that project faded into obscurity. Apple’s Tetris movie will debut on March 31, and also stars Nikita Efremov and Toby Jones.
Upcoming Tetris Film Trailer Reveals Story of Guns, Espionage, and Car Chases Behind the Game’s Global Success. The movie adaptation by Apple details how video game salesman Henk Rogers secured the distribution rights for the game, which was originally created by a Soviet engineer in 1984. The film shows the legal battle and deals behind the scenes, including Tetris being packaged with Nintendo’s Game Boy, leading to millions of units sold globally. While the film likely embellishes details for dramatic effect, it still highlights the intriguing backstory of the popular game. The film, which stars Taron Egerton, Nikita Efremov, and Toby Jones, is set to debut on March 31.
The latest trailer for John Wick: Chapter 4 is out, and it promises more action-packed scenes and a high body count. Following the events of the previous film, Keanu Reeves’ character is left for dead and missing a finger, but he’s not giving up just yet. He returns as the iconic assassin and battles former allies who are now his enemies in his quest for freedom from the High Table. The synopsis reveals that Wick will face a new and powerful enemy with global alliances, which will test his skills and turn old friends against him.
The movie features several big names in the action genre, such as martial arts legend Donnie Yen and Scott Adkins, who looks nearly unrecognizable. The cast also includes Bill Skarsgard, Laurence Fishburne, Lance Reddick, Rina Sawayama, Clancy Brown, Shamier Anderson, Hiroyuki Sanada, and Ian McShane.
Originally slated for a May 2021 release, the film was delayed twice due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the latest release date set for March 24, 2023. The delay was a wise decision, as it allowed the film to avoid clashing with Top Gun: Maverick, which was a huge box office success.
Warner Bros. has unveiled a new photo from the highly anticipated sequel to the blockbuster hit, Joker. The image provides fans with a first look at Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn. Director Todd Phillips and Gaga both shared the same picture on their social media accounts, with captions referring to the upcoming release. Filming for the movie is currently underway in New York and Los Angeles with a scheduled release date of October 4, 2024.
Joker, released in 2019, was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $1 billion worldwide on a modest budget, and winning Joaquin Phoenix an Academy Award for his portrayal of the Joker. For Joker 2, Phoenix is set to receive a $20 million paycheck. In addition to Gaga, the movie features new cast members, including Brendan Gleeson and Catherine Keener. Director Todd Phillips, who also wrote the film, returns to helm the highly anticipated sequel.
Joker 2 arrives at a time of major changes at DC Studios, which is now under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran.
After a few false starts in the past two years, 2023 is shaping up to be the official start of the PS5-Xbox Series generation. With the increasing adoption of Unreal Engine 5 and more developers dropping support for last-gen consoles from Sony and Microsoft, new hardware exclusives like Starfield, Spider-Man 2, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, and Final Fantasy 16 are just a few of the titles to look forward to. However, even owners of PS4, Xbox One, and Switch can expect exciting games.
Despite several game delays to 2023 and a focus on new-gen hardware, each platform holder has at least one major exclusive in the works. This makes next year’s lineup the most anticipated since the console shift in 2020. We’ve compiled a list of the 30 biggest games of 2023 in chronological order of release date to capture the excitement of this new year.
JANUARY:
1. Fire Emblem Engage
Release Date: 20 January 2023
Platform: Switch
Prepare to embark on a heroic journey to save the continent of Elyos as the Divine Dragon in the latest addition to the Fire Emblem series. In Fire Emblem Engage, you’ll use strategic hero-summoning tactics to overcome a powerful ancient threat in turn-based, tactical combat. Alongside iconic heroes like Marth and Celica, you’ll meet a new cast of characters in this thrilling new Fire Emblem story.
After a thousand-year slumber, the Divine Dragon has awakened, and it’s up to you to rally an army of allies from past Fire Emblem games and new recruits to defeat the Fell Dragon. With engaging gameplay and a rich storyline, Fire Emblem Engage is sure to delight fans of the series and newcomers alike.
2. Forspoken
Release Date: 24 January 2023
Platform: PS5, PC
Forspoken is the new video game released this year, that takes players on an epic adventure through the enchanting yet treacherous world of Athia. The story follows Frey Holland, a young woman from New York City who suddenly finds herself transported to this mysterious land with a magical, sentient bracelet attached to her arm. She teams up with a cynical companion called “Cuff” to navigate the vast landscapes of Athia.
Frey’s ultimate goal is to find a way back home, but she’ll have to battle monstrous creatures and confront the powerful Tantas to do so. As she delves deeper into the secrets of Athia, she uncovers something powerful and transformative within herself. Forspoken promises to deliver an immersive gaming experience filled with action, adventure, and discovery.
3. Dead Space
Release Date: 27 January 2023
Platform: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Discover the terrifying secrets that lurk within the USG Ishimura mining ship in Dead Space™, the sci-fi survival horror classic. Explore the ship’s ominous corridors and workspaces, navigating nightmarish horrors to survive. This fully rebuilt remake offers an even deeper and more immersive experience, with stunning visual fidelity, spine-tingling atmospheric audio, new gameplay content, and faithful adherence to the original game’s thrilling vision. Unravel the mystery that has gone horribly wrong aboard the USG Ishimura.
FEBRUARY:
4. Hogwarts Legacy
Release Date: 10 February 2023 (PS5, XSX|S, PC), 5 May 2023 (PS4, X1), 25 July 25 2023 (Switch)
Platform: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch, PC
Set in the 1800s at Hogwarts – Hogwarts Legacy invites you to experience a brand new story in the wizarding world. As a student in possession of a mysterious and powerful secret, you hold the fate of the wizarding world in your hands. Along the way, forge alliances, confront Dark wizards, and make choices that will shape the destiny of all. With your first days at Hogwarts fast approaching, the question remains: where will your journey lead you in Hogwarts Legacy? Discover the endless possibilities that await as you carve your path through the wizarding world. Will you rise to greatness or succumb to darkness? The choice is yours in this highly anticipated game.
5. Wild Hearts
Release Date: 17 February 2023
Platform: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
In WILD HEARTS™, you’ll need to master ancient technology in order to take down colossal beasts that are infused with the ferocious power of nature itself. This game puts a unique twist on the hunting genre, giving you a fighting chance against these fearsome creatures. You can choose to tackle them alone or team up with friends for seamless co-op play. Developed by Omega Force, the studio behind the DYNASTY WARRIORS franchise, and in partnership with EA Originals, WILD HEARTS takes you on an epic adventure through a fantasy world inspired by feudal Japan. The hunt is on – are you ready to begin?
6. Atomic Heart
Release Date: 21 February 2023
Platform: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Prepare to enter the alternate post-WWII world of Atomic Heart, the action-packed RPG that delivers a unique twist on history. Once a utopian society where humans and robots lived in harmony, this fictional USSR has fallen from grace due to shrouded experiments and the unyielding march of technology. As Agent P-3, you’ll witness the deadly consequences of innovation firsthand as you journey through Facility 3826, encountering artificial intelligence on the brink of madness, unsightly mutants, and killer robots. With a wide range of cutting-edge weapons and abilities at your disposal, you can tailor your playstyle to survive the inescapable threats that lie ahead. Whether you’re a hardcore player looking for a frenzied, gore-filled challenge or an adventurer eager to explore the gripping narrative, Atomic Heart offers a customizable experience with three difficulty levels to choose from.
7. Horizon Call of the Mountain
Release Date: 22 February 2023
Platform: PSVR 2
Prepare to ascend to new heights in Horizon Call of the Mountain. Join the journey of Ryas, a disgraced Shadow Carja soldier who is determined to restore his honor. As you explore the serene wilderness, be wary of deadly machines lurking around every corner. Experience the tension of pulling back your bowstring and immerse yourself in this epic adventure. Help Ryas investigate a mysterious new threat to the Sundom and the world, and earn his redemption and freedom. With majestic visuals and subtle sensations, Horizon Call of the Mountain promises to be a thrilling ride that you won’t want to miss.
8. Company of Heroes 3
Release Date: 23 February 2023
Platform: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Get ready for an epic experience with the return of Company of Heroes in its third installment! Featuring a breathtaking Mediterranean theatre of war, this game offers heart-racing combat coupled with more intricate strategic decisions than ever before. Each battle in Company of Heroes 3 unfolds a unique story, with you at the helm. Brace yourself for next-gen action, award-winning tactical gameplay, and a deeper strategy that will leave you thoroughly engaged. Don’t miss out on the excitement of Company of Heroes!
9. Sons of the Forest
Release Date: 23 February 2023
Platform: PC
Prepare to face your darkest fears in Sons of the Forest, the open-world survival horror simulator that will leave you on the edge of your seat. When tasked with finding a missing billionaire on a remote island, you quickly discover that you’re not alone. The island is overrun with cannibals, and you must use your crafting and building skills to survive this hellscape. Whether you choose to brave it alone or with friends, every moment will be a struggle for survival. With a terrifying atmosphere and heart-pumping gameplay, Sons of the Forest promises to be an unforgettable experience.
10. Kerbal Space Program 2
Release Date: 24 February 2023
Platform: PC (PlayStation and Xbox versions to follow at a later date)
Get ready to embark on a thrilling space adventure with Kerbal Space Program 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the beloved space-flight simulation game. Experience the next generation of space exploration with exciting new parts, stunning visuals, and a fully revamped UI and Map View. Explore rich and diverse new environments as you push the boundaries of space travel and discover new frontiers. With endless possibilities and a universe of adventure waiting to be explored, Kerbal Space Program 2 promises to be an unforgettable journey through the final frontier.
The latest Xbox firmware update has introduced a “carbon aware” power management system, making it the first console to implement this feature. By default, every Xbox console now uses the energy-saving option, reducing power consumption when the console is off. However, players can still choose to use the “Instant On” option, which boots the console faster but uses 20 times more energy.
Xbox will now also schedule game, app, and OS updates during times of lower carbon emissions, potentially saving players money and reducing fossil fuel dependency. In addition to the power-saving features, the update also allows players to hide game art on the Home page, use the Google Home app as a remote, and jump back into previous parties more easily.
