video games
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Source: Konami / Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater
The PS Store has accidentally revealed when we can expect to experience Operation Snake Eater after accidentally revealing the release date for Metal Gear Solid Delta.
In what many assume was a mistake and possibly confirmed that the rumored February State of Play is indeed happening, the PS Store leaked the August 28, 2025 release date of Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater and a new trailer and confirmed it would be PS5 Pro Enhanced. However, it’s unclear whether those enhancements will be ready by launch.
https://x.com/DavidBHayter/status/1887574904356413896
According to the PS Store, Metal Gear Solid Delta’s Deluxe Edition will be released on August 25, while the Standard Edition will arrive on August 28. Basically, those who pony up the extra dollars get to play the game three days early.
After some more digging into the leak, players will be happy to learn that the Snake vs. Monkey game mode featured in the original game will be in the remake.
“In this mode, you’ll play as Snake and round up all the escaped apes running amok in each stage!” a description for the mode reads.
https://x.com/Wario64/status/1886796020304220436
Is Hideo Kojima Also Cooking Up Something For The February State of Play?
Even more interesting is that Metal Gear’s creator, Hideo Kojima, has also been stirring the State of Play pot by teasing people that he is back in the lab editing. This has left many wondering if he is cooking up a new trailer for Death Stranding 2: On The Beach or another look at his new tactical espionage game, Physint.
https://x.com/HIDEO_KOJIMA_EN/status/1887104251010404518
We need PlayStation to confirm this State of Play because it has become the company’s worst-kept secret of the month.
The sad part is that the Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater release date leak is a buzzkill for the presentation, but don’t get it twisted—we are all still excited that this game will be released this year.
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Source: Sucker Punch Productions / Ghosts of Yotei / PlayStation
Nintendo announced the Switch 2 very subtly, Xbox had a bomb a** Developer_Direct showcase, and now PlayStation reportedly is gearing up to show us what they got in store for 2025.
Word on the video game streets is that PlayStation is dropping a State of Play broadcast next week. The tip comes from none other than NateTheHate, the same person who accurately called the Nintendo Switch 2 announcement.
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, NateTheHate responded “Yes” when a follower asked, “Is the first State of Play of the year still coming in February?”
When the follower asked if the State of Play was coming either early, mid, or late February, NateTheHate responded, “What does your heart tell you?”
https://x.com/NateTheHate2/status/1885748440132456877
Eurogamer reports that we could expect to see the State of Play sometime around Valentine’s Day and points out that Sony has held a State of Play broadcast every February since 2021.
What Games Will PlayStation Show?
It remains a mystery what games we can expect to see. One good guess is that we will definitely see more of Ghosts of Yotei, the sequel to Ghost of Tsushima, which is slated to arrive sometime this year.
We could also get an update on Insomniac’s Wolverine game, which we haven’t heard anything official about since it was announced during a September 2021 PlayStation Showcase.
Keep in mind that Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 was also announced. The game has come out and was just released on PC last week.
Leaked footage from an early build of the game did hit the web.
We could also see more of Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding 2 On The Beach or his next Tactical Espionage Action game, Physint.
We’ll just have to wait until PlayStation hits us with the official announcement.
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Source: T3 Magazine / Getty / PS4
PS4 PlayStation Plus subscribers received bad news: In 2026, Sony will no longer offer free monthly PS4 games.
You have a year to upgrade your life and get a PS5 or PS5 Pro console because it seems Sony is moving on from the PS4 console and shifting all of its attention to the current generation.
However, all is not lost. Sony will also offer PS4 titles occasionally through PS Plus Monthly Games and Game Catalog.
“As many of our players are currently playing on PS5 and have shifted toward redeeming and accessing PS5 titles from the Monthly Games and Game Catalog benefit, PlayStation Plus is also evolving with this trend and will focus on offering PS5 titles through the Monthly Games and Game Catalog benefit starting January 2026,” a statement on the PlayStation Blog reads.
PS Plus members enjoyed the monthly benefit of PS4 and PS5 titles as part of the least expensive “Essential” tier. Those subscribed to the higher tier enjoy a rotating selection of games added to the PlayStation Plus’ Game Catalog.
Another Announcements From PlayStation
Sony did note that PS4 games that users have already added to their collection through the monthly games program will not be affected. Sony said that PC players will now get in-game bonus awards for players who log in with a PSN account on PC ports PlayStation’s first-party titles like the recently announced Marvel’s Spider-Man 2.
Yup, it looks like the PS4’s time is winding down; it was a good run for the console that blessed us with titles like Marvel’s Spider-Man, The Last of Part II, Infamous Second Son, and more.
On a more positive note, game developers can now focus on making games primarily for the PS5 console and not worry about optimizing them for the PS4.
HipHopWired Featured Video
Source: T3 Magazine / Getty / PS4
PS4 PlayStation Plus subscribers received bad news: In 2026, Sony will no longer offer free monthly PS4 games.
You have a year to upgrade your life and get a PS5 or PS5 Pro console because it seems Sony is moving on from the PS4 console and shifting all of its attention to the current generation.
However, all is not lost. Sony will also offer PS4 titles occasionally through PS Plus Monthly Games and Game Catalog.
“As many of our players are currently playing on PS5 and have shifted toward redeeming and accessing PS5 titles from the Monthly Games and Game Catalog benefit, PlayStation Plus is also evolving with this trend and will focus on offering PS5 titles through the Monthly Games and Game Catalog benefit starting January 2026,” a statement on the PlayStation Blog reads.
PS Plus members enjoyed the monthly benefit of PS4 and PS5 titles as part of the least expensive “Essential” tier. Those subscribed to the higher tier enjoy a rotating selection of games added to the PlayStation Plus’ Game Catalog.
Another Announcements From PlayStation
Sony did note that PS4 games that users have already added to their collection through the monthly games program will not be affected. Sony said that PC players will now get in-game bonus awards for players who log in with a PSN account on PC ports PlayStation’s first-party titles like the recently announced Marvel’s Spider-Man 2.
Yup, it looks like the PS4’s time is winding down; it was a good run for the console that blessed us with titles like Marvel’s Spider-Man, The Last of Part II, Infamous Second Son, and more.
On a more positive note, game developers can now focus on making games primarily for the PS5 console and not worry about optimizing them for the PS4.
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Source: 2K / Visual Concepts / WWE 2K25
WWE Superstar Roman Reigns gets all the acknowledgment on the cover star of WWE 2K25.
Visual Concepts’ WWE 2K video game franchise has become the undisputed champion of wrestling video games since returning from its hiatus to clean up the once extremely buggy game franchise.
With WWE 2K25, the franchise looks to continue its dominance in the virtual ring. Last night’s edition of Monday Night Raw on Netflix was the perfect time for 2 K to announce that Roman Reigns, The Original Tribal Chief and still the Head of the Table, is this year’s cover star.
The One & Only Tribal Chief Speaks On Grabbing The WWE 2K25 Cover
Reigns, looking like the real-life superhero he is, strikes a heroic pose on the cover of WWE 2K25’s Standard Edition ($69.99), which arrives on March 14. Along with his longtime manager and WWE Legend, his “Wiseman” Paul Heyman admires the true Tribal Chief.
“I am personally and professionally excited that the Original and Only Tribal Chief and the extended Anoa’i family are the focus of WWE 2K25,” said Roman Reigns. “We’ve been building toward this moment for generations, and I challenge players everywhere to show me and my Wiseman, Paul Heyman, what they’ve got, and prove they’re worthy of the attention of their Tribal Chief.”
WWE 2K25 is available for pre-order now.
Source: 2K / Visual Concepts / WWE 2K25
The Undertaker Graces The Deadman Edition of WWE 2K25
Celebrating 35 years of WWE dominance, The Undertaker takes centerstage on the cover of WWE 2K25’s Deadman Edition ($99.99), striking his signature pose that has stoked fear in many of his opponents during his decorated professional wrestling career.
The Deadman Edition includes the Standard Edition and Wyatt Sicks Pack, plus the Deadman Edition Bonus Pack, which includes thew Mattel Elite “Greatest Hits” Undertaker and Original Undertaker (’90) Persona Cards and playable Superstars, a useable Urn object, Undertaker ’95 Mask cosmetic item for The Island on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S only, and Brother Love Manager, plus a Season Pass to all five post-launch DLC character packs and 15,000 VC.
This version of the game also launches seven days before the Standard Edition.
Source: 2K / Visual Concepts / WWE 2K25
The Bloodline Gets A Cover Too
Roman Reigns also covers the game’s Bloodline Edition ($129.99). This edition features Reigns’ Solo Sikoa’s Bloodline factions, including Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Paul Heyman, Sami Zayn, Jacob Fatu, Tama Tonga, and Tonga Loa, interwoven into the roots and branches of the iconic Bloodline family tree. This is one of the dopest WWE 2K covers to date.
Per 2K, the Bloodline Edition will feature the Standard Edition and all bonus content included in the Deadman Edition, The Bloodline Edition includes the Ringside Pass (Season Pass plus Superstar Mega-Boost), The Rock Nation of Domination Pack, which features a Rock Nation of Domination Persona card and playable Superstar and will only be available as part of The Bloodline Edition, plus The Bloodline Edition Bonus Pack, which features Mattel Elite Series 114 Jey Uso and Mattel Elite “Greatest Hits” Roman Reigns Persona cards and playable Superstars.
For Xbox Series X|S and PS5 only, this pack includes a Family Above All Hoodie, OTC Shirt, Yeet tank Top, and Yeet Sunglasses cosmetic items for The Island, while for Steam only, it includes an additional 32,500 VC. Also included is the WrestleMania 41 Pack, which features the WrestleMania 41 Arena, two WrestleMania 41 Main Event Superstars Persona cards and playable Superstars, and a new Superstar Persona Card (TBA), which will all be available in Summer 2025.
Source: 2K / Visual Concepts / WWE 2K25
What’s New In WWE 2K25?
If you thought WWE 2K25 would be a rehash of last year’s game, think again. There are many new modes players can look forward to, like 2K Showcase: The Bloodline’s Dynasty and The Island.
Source: 2K / Visual Concepts / WWE 2K25
Per 2K:
2K Showcase: The Bloodline’s Dynasty: The all-new 2K Showcase, hosted by “The Wiseman” Paul Heyman, celebrates one of the most iconic wrestling family dynasties – The Bloodline and the extended Anoa’i family. Featuring Roman Reigns, The Rock, Yokozuna, Jacob Fatu, and more, players can relive historic showdowns or flip the script and change the outcome of select match-ups. Dream matches between members of The Bloodline and WWE Superstars and Legends offer a “what if?’ fantasy element to settle fan debates and start fresh feuds, in addition to some surprises in store.
The Island: An interactive world made up of a series of areas built around different WWE themes, The Island offers players the opportunity to explore and challenge other players, while vying to earn a WWE contract by impressing “The Original Tribal Chief” Roman Reigns. By completing quests, taking on challenges, competing in live events, earning unlockables, and upgrading and customizing MySUPERSTARS through multiple storyline chapters, The Island allows players to step outside the ropes and “Rule Beyond the Ring.” Available only on PS5® and Xbox Series X|S.
New Match Types and Improvements on Gameplay: Intergender wrestling makes its long-awaited debut in the WWE 2K franchise! WWE or player-created Superstars from the men’s and women’s divisions can now compete against each other to set up limitless matchups across all game modes. Additional features include the return of Chain Wrestling, Bloodline Rules Match, Underground Match, and new barricade diving! More details on each new match type will be shared soon.
Returning Game Modes
MyGM Online Multiplayer: Intrepid GMs can take their show on the road and challenge general managers worldwide in the enhanced MyGM for WWE 2K25, now with online multiplayer for up to four players. Players draft WWE Superstars and Legends to their weekly show’s roster and lead their brand through multiple-week seasons with a bigger selection of General Managers, cross-brand Premium Live Events, and more;
MyFACTION: The collectible, card-battle mode is back with updated features, new content, and more ways to play. Faction Wars now features new node types, and 50 new stages. World Tour replaces Proving Grounds, enabling players to travel to different locations in a non-linear approach, while additional match-type support for live events and online matches, and new community events offer enhanced replayability. New themed card packs and goals will continue to roll out regularly throughout the year with seasonal content refreshes*;
MyRISE: Players guide their MySUPERSTAR from the women’s or men’s division in a singular, multi-gender MyRISE storyline where Bayley, Kevin Owens, and other Superstars infiltrate NXT in an attempt to take control of the entire WWE. Featuring new personality choices that lead to specific storylines, as well as brawl environments, unlockable arenas, characters, useable objects, and more, plus new ally storylines involving Jey Uso, Bianca Belair, Seth Rollins, and other WWE Superstars;
Universe: WWE 2 K’s sandbox mode receives new upgrades to give players greater control over their Universe experience, including the long-awaited return of Promos! The new system includes multiple promo types and outcomes with new cutscenes and branching choices;
Creation Suite: The hallmark of the WWE 2K franchise, the best-in-class, most detailed and robust creation suite remains one of the driving forces behind players’ self-expression as they design their own custom Superstars, GMs, referees, arenas, entrances, move sets, championships, crowd signs, and more.
1. WWE 2K25
Source:WWE 2K25
WWE 2K25 wwe,roman reigns,wwe 2k25,the undertaker
2. WWE 2K25
Source:WWE 2K25
WWE 2K25 wwe,roman reigns,wwe 2k25,the undertaker
3. WWE 2K25
Source:WWE 2K25
WWE 2K25 wwe,roman reigns,wwe 2k25,the undertaker
4. WWE 2K25
Source:WWE 2K25
WWE 2K25 wwe,roman reigns,wwe 2k25,the undertaker
5. WWE 2K25
Source:WWE 2K25
WWE 2K25 wwe,roman reigns,wwe 2k25,the undertaker
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Source: Charley Gallay / Getty / Elon Musk
Elon Musk couldn’t be the fake gamer allegations and admitted to cheating. Now, understandably, real gamers are BIG MAD with Diablo 4 and Path of Exile 2 developers for not banning Phony Stark for his egregious gaming behavior.
Spotted on IGN, Blizzard Entertainment, and Grinding Gear Games, quietness on the matter of whether action will be taken against Musk has been deafening.
Gamers are now lashing out at the studio’s hesitation to ban Elon Musk’s accounts, leading some to believe that the developers are undermining the integrity of their games, IGN reports.
Rolling Stone shared screenshots of a private conversation between the world’s richest loser and a YouTuber where he openly admitted to paying for account boosting in Diablo 4 and Path of Exile 2.
“Have you level boosted (had someone else play your accounts) and/or purchased gear/resources for PoE2 [Path of Exile 2] and Diablo 4?” YouTuber NikoWrex asked. Musk replied with a 100% emoji, adding, “It’s impossible to beat the players in Asia if you don’t, as they do!”
“But when I post a video of a game or am streaming, that’s 100% me,” Musk continued. He was then asked if he would take credit for his high-level Path of Exile 2 character. “No. Never claimed that. The top accounts in Diablo or PoE require multiple people playing the account to win a leveling race.”
What Is Account Boosting?
For those who don’t know, account boosting occurs when a player logs into another player’s account to boost their rank. This directly violates every live service game’s terms of service. Account boosting or power-leveling, in exchange for payment, is prohibited per Blizzard’s end-user license agreement.
So it’s no surprise folks are mad that Musk has yet to be punished for his actions, and they are sounding off on the devs and the X/Twitter owner.
Per IGN:
Following Musk’s admission this week, Diablo 4 developer Blizzard Entertainment and Path of Exile 2 developer Grinding Gear Games have faced questions about whether they will now take action and ban Musk’s accounts for cheating.
“So now billionaires can buy their way to the top of the HC ladder as a vanity project like owning a football club. Are the TOS not being enforced even when openly broken?” asked one Path of Exile player in a post on the game’s official forum.
“Are there any comments from GGG regarding this? Maybe in [Early Access] it’s not a high priority, or it’s garnering too much free press, but as a longtime supporter, this is a massive blow to the credibility of RMT [real money trading] enforcement.
“I’m not trying to shitpost or troll with this, I’m just extremely disappointed that GGG isn’t getting out the ban hammer.
“Anyone else feel this is undermining the integrity of the game?”
Both Grinding Gear Games and Blizzard Entertainment declined to comment on the matter, with Blizzard telling IGN, “it does not comment on individual player account behaviors or enforcements.”
Again, this behavior from Elon Musk isn’t surprising.
You can see more reactions in the gallery below.
1. We call him Phony Stark within good reason
2. Sh*t’s crazy
6. Exactly
13. Expeditiously
14. A very loud one
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Source: Koei Tecmo / Team Ninja / Platinum Games / Ninja Gaiden 4
Xbox kicked January off with a banger Developer_Direct presentation, and an iconic video game franchise is back!
Thursday, January 23, Xbox said oh, we got some things to show you, showcasing some titles coming to the Xbox Series X/S and whatever device that is now considered an Xbox console.
Ahead of the direct, Xbox revealed that we would hear from the developers behind upcoming titles South of Midnight, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Clair Obscure: Expedition 33.
Ninja Gaiden Is Back!
A mystery game from a mystery studio was also teased. In the presentation, we quickly learned that we are getting a new entry in the Ninja Gaiden franchise, Ninja Gaiden 4, which has a feel reminiscent of Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty.
Team Ninja and Platinum Games are collaborating on Ninja Gaiden 4, which continues the style of the other titles in the 3D reboot trilogy that dropped between 2004 and 2012.
This time around, you will be able to play as two protagonists: Ryu Hayabusa and a new character named Yakumo, who is following in the footsteps of Ryu and wants to become a master ninja.
Source: Koei Tecmo / Team Ninja / Platinum Games / Ninja Gaiden 4
Based on the trailer, Platinum Games is the perfect studio for this game because the action looks much faster and even more stylish, and if it keeps the same energy as the other Ninja Gaiden games, being extremely difficult.
Ninja Gaiden 4 has no release date, but it will be available on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Game Pass.
But wait, that’s not all. Xbox had another big Ninja Gaiden announcement and provided extensive looks into other games were made. Hit the gallery for those announcements.
1. NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black Official Launch Trailer
The legendary high-speed ninja action game returns graphically remastered!
Using Unreal Engine 5 to significantly enhance graphic expression, this is the definitive version of “NINJA GAIDEN 2,” featuring additional playable characters and enhanced battle support functions.
Play Today with Game Pass: https://www.xbox.com/games/store/prod…
2. South of Midnight
When a hurricane rips through Prospero, Hazel is pulled into a Southern Gothic world where reality and fantasy are interwoven, and ancient creatures from folklore emerge.
Coming to Xbox Game Pass, Xbox Series XIS, and Windows PC on April 8, 2025.
Play it day one with Game Pass or Pre-Order South of Midnight today! https://www.xbox.com/games/south-of-m…
3. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 | Release Date Trailer
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, the debut title from Sandfall Interactive, launches on Xbox Series X|S on April 24, 2025, and will be available Day One with Game Pass. With turn-based combat enhanced by real-time mechanics, you’ll face the Paintress to end her cursed countdown and save the future of Lumière.
Explore a Belle Époque-inspired fantasy world using the expansive World Map, uncovering secrets, side quests, and challenges.
Set up camp to reinforce weapons, bond with your Expedition teammates, and plan your next steps. Join Monoco (voiced by Rich Keeble), a shape-shifting Gestral, and Esquie (voiced by Maxence Cazorla), a towering ally who helps you swim, soar, and explore new paths.
Play it day one with Game Pass or Pre-order now: https://www.xbox.com/games/expedition-33
4. Doom: The Dark Ages
Join Marty, Hugo and the team at id Software as we journey into our first gameplay deep dive for DOOM: The Dark Ages!
Developed by id Software, DOOM: The Dark Ages is the prequel to the critically acclaimed DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal that tells an epic cinematic story of the DOOM Slayer’s rage.
In this third installment of the modern DOOM series, players will step into the blood-stained boots of the DOOM Slayer, in this never-before-seen dark and sinister medieval war against Hell. Coming May 15, 2025. Pre-order on Xbox Series X|S, PC or PlayStation 5.
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Source: NYVGCC / 2025 New York Game Awards / Astro Bot
Astro Bot continues to take home the big trophies. The exceptional PlayStation 5 platformer from Team ASOBI took home the night’s most significant honor during the 2025 New York Game Awards on Tuesday, January 21.
A cold winter night in NYC could not cool off Astro Bot’s momentum. During the 2025 New York Game Awards hosted by NY Video Game Critics Circle President Harold Goldberg and former Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aimé, the PlayStation 5 exclusive took home three awards: Best Music in a Game, Best Kids Game, and the cherry on top, Game of The Year.
Simone De Rochefort and Clayton Ashley (Polygon) took home the prestigious Knickerbocker Award for Best Games Journalism. Remedy Studios’ head, Sam Lake, was honored in special tribute as this year’s recipient of the 2025 Andrew Yoon Legend Award.
Regarding entertainment, toes were tapping, and heads were nodding, thanks to a performance from Mega Ran, who debuted a brand new original song for the award show.
Another successful New York Game Awards is in the books. For more information on the NY Video Game Critics Circle and the critical work they do to ensure inner-city youth can find their way in the game journalism space, you can head here.
2025 New York Game Awards Winners
Big Apple Award for Best Game of the Year: Astro Bot
Off Broadway Award for Best Indie Game: UFO 50
Herman Melville Award for Best Writing in a Game: Metaphor: ReFantazio
Statue of Liberty Award for Best World: Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Tin Pan Alley Award for Best Music in a Game: Astro Bot
Great White Way Award for Best Acting in a Game: Troy Baker as Indiana Jones in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
Coney Island Dreamland Award for Best AR/VR Game: Batman: Arkham Shadow
Central Park Children’s Zoo Award for Best Kids Game: Astro Bot
A-Train Award for Best Mobile Game: Zenless Zone Zero
Freedom Tower Award for Best Remake: Silent Hill 2
Chumley’s Speakeasy Award for Best Hidden Gem: Mouthwashing
NYC GWB Award for Best DLC: Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Knickerbocker Award for Best Games Journalism: Simone De Rochefort & Clayton Ashley
Andrew Yoon Legend Award Recipient: Sam Lake
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Source: Xbox / Xbox Game Pass
It’s a new year, and the best deal in gaming, Xbox Game Pass, is only getting better. Some new games are coming to the library to keep you picking up the Xbox controller or whatever peripheral you use since everything is almost an Xbox now.
Xbox is bringing more day-one releases, fan favorites, and hidden gems to Xbox Game Pass and Ultimate ahead of the upcoming Developer_Direct, which promises to reveal a brand new, unannounced title.
We won’t talk your head off here. Let’s get to games.
Available Right Now!
Available today, it will be Lonely Mountain: Snow Riders, the follow-up to Lonely Mountains: Downhill. It now features eight players via cross-platform multiplayer as players are challenged to work their way down the slopes while sharing a limited number of checkpoints, or you can partake in a breakneck race to the base.
Coming Soon To Xbox Game Pass
Flock (Console) – January 22 Now with Game Pass Standard
Flock is a multiplayer co-op game about the joy of flight and collecting adorable flying creatures with your friends. Soar through beautiful landscapes, seeking out rare and elusive creatures to add to your flock.
Gigantic: Rampage Edition (Cloud, Console, and PC) – January 22 Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, Game Pass Standard
Gigantic: Rampage Edition is a premium and definitive release of the original 5v5 MOBA hero shooter that provides a dynamic and exciting team-based multiplayer experience for fans of both genres. Choose from a diverse roster of unique heroes, each with a set of upgradeable abilities, and team up with four other players to control objectives and take down the opposing team’s mighty Guardian, all while protecting your own.
Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess (Console) – January 22 Now with Game Pass Standard
A unique Japanese-inspired, single player Kagura action strategy game. It takes place on a mountain covered by defilement. During the day, purify the villages and prepare yourself for sundown. During the night, protect the Maiden against the hordes of the Seethe. Repeat the day and night cycle until you cleanse the mountain of defilement and return peace to the land.
Magical Delicacy (Console) – January 22 Now with Game Pass Standard
A wholesome pixel art platformer. Cook magical delicacies from a vast collection of ingredients in your own shop. Explore an unfamiliar town and deliver tasty treats to the townsfolk. Learn new ways to traverse, discover secrets, and experience a unique witchy world.
Tchia (Xbox Series X|S) – January 22 Now with Game Pass Standard
Join Tchia on her tropical open-world adventure as she sets off to rescue her father from the cruel tyrant, Meavora, ruler of the archipelago. Climb, glide, swim, and sail your boat around beautiful islands as you explore a physics-driven sandbox.
The Case of the Golden Idol (Console) – January 22 Now with Game Pass Standard
Mayhem, magic, and murder most foul! Examine clues and use your powers of deduction to solve the twisted mystery of a family’s cursed inheritance and a series of grisly deaths in this point-and-click detective adventure game
Starbound (Cloud and Console) – January 22 Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Standard
Currently available with PC Game Pass and now coming to Xbox consoles and Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta)! In Starbound, you create your own story – there’s no wrong way to play! You may choose to save the universe from the forces that destroyed your home, uncovering greater galactic mysteries in the process, or you may wish to forego a heroic journey entirely in favor of colonizing uncharted planets.
Eternal Strands (Cloud, Console, and PC) – January 28 Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass
Available on day one! Eternal Strands is the debut fantasy title from Yellow Brick Games, a new independent studio founded by industry veterans from franchises including Dragon Age, Mass Effect, Watch Dogs, and Assassin’s Creed. Fight epic, towering creatures while blending magical abilities with an arsenal of powerful weapons to keep the world from crumbling in this third-person, action-adventure game.
Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S) – January 28 Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass
Available on day one! Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap is an action-packed, third-person shooter and trap defense game. Evolve as an orc-slaying War Mage through rogue-lite choices and obliterate, eviscerate, and incinerate massive hordes with up to four players.
Shady Part of Me (Cloud, Console, and PC) – January 29 Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, Game Pass Standard
Shady Part of Me sends you on an emotional and dream-like journey, with breathtaking artistic direction and the enthralling voice of Hannah Murray from “Game of Thrones” and “Skins.” As a little girl and her shadow, overcome emotional struggles through surreal dreamscapes across a touching narrative filled with twists and surprises. Both must learn, cooperate, and evolve to progress in a poetic journey.
Sniper Elite: Resistance (Cloud, Console, and PC) – January 30 Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass
Available on day one! Offering unparalleled sniping mechanics, stealth, and tactical third-person combat, Sniper Elite: Resistance turns the attention of the award-winning series towards a hidden war, far from the front lines, deep within the heart of occupied France. Bring a friend – the full campaign can be experienced in co-op.
Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S) – January 31 Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass
Available on day one! The highly anticipated sequel to one of 2022’s most acclaimed RPGs, Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector, is a dice-driven RPG in a human and heartfelt sci-fi world. You are an escaped android with a malfunctioning body, a price on your head, and no memory of your past. Get a ship, find a crew, and take on contracts while you navigate across the Starward Belt.
Far Cry New Dawn (Cloud, Console, and PC) – February 4 Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, Game Pass Standard
Dive into a transformed, vibrant, post-apocalyptic Hope County, Montana, 17 years after a global nuclear catastrophe. Lead the fight against the Highwaymen as they seek to take over the last remaining resources.
Games Leaving Xbox Game Pass On January 31
With the arrival of new titles coming to Xbox Game Pass, that sadly means some games will have to leave the service, so if you’re hoping to play these games, you better hop on it quick or use your membership discount, saving up to 20% to keep these outgoing titles in your library.
Anuchard (Cloud, Console, and PC)
Broforce Forever (Cloud, Console, and PC)
Darkest Dungeon (Cloud, Console, and PC)
Death’s Door (Cloud, Console, and PC)
Maquette (Cloud, Console, and PC)
Serious Sam: Siberian Mayhem (Cloud, Console, and PC)
DLC & Game Updates
Xbox also allows Game Pass subscribers to access DLC and updates for titles like Diablo IV and Valorant.
Diablo IV: Season of Witchcraft – Available now
Diablo IV: Season of Witchcraft has begun! Unravel the mystery of the Tree of Whispers’ stolen Heads by harnessing Witchcraft Powers to hunt the rogue Heads as they spread madness across Sanctuary. Complete the Season Journey to earn a new Raven Pet. Learn more on Xbox Wire.
Valorant: New Agent Tejo – Available now
Game Pass members now have access to Valorant’s newest Agent, Tejo, who’s joining the roster from Colombia. As part of the Initiator class, Tejo specializes in flushing out enemies with a unique kit consisting of information gathering, explosions, and a concuss. Learn more about Tejo’s abilities on Xbox Wire.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Perks
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers get to play some of the biggest titles and enjoy these perks. You can access the Game Pass section on your console, Xbox mobile app, or Xbox app on PC to find new in-game content, consumables, and offers included with your Game Pass Ultimate membership.
Throne and Liberty: Lottie and Percy Bundle – Available now
Join the Resistance in this Xbox exclusive colored Lottie Outfit and get a Fuzzy Percy Amitoi to tag along on your adventures in this free-to-play, guild-focused combat experience.
EA Sports UFC 5: Bruce Lee Bundle – Available now
Unlock new alter egos for the father of mixed martial arts, available with your EA Play membership. EA Play membership is included with Game Pass Ultimate.
War Thunder: Year of the Snake Bundle – Available now
Celebrate the Lunar New Year of the Snake with a mighty tank Sherman Jumbo “Cobra King” and versatile fighter plane P-63C-5 “King Cobra”.
Enlisted: Ultimate US Starter Pack – Available now
Get a great start in Enlisted with the premium US Assaulters squad armed with M3A1 Grease Guns!
Keep it locked on HHW Gaming for more news regarding Xbox Game Pass, and be sure to stick around for our coverage for the upcoming Developer_Direct.
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Source: NurPhoto / Getty / TikTok Ban
Welp, TikTok and its China-based owner ByteDance f***ed around and found out. Late Saturday night, TikTok was officially banned in the U.S., but it’s back up after Donald Trump vowed to save it. Shockingly, the card-collecting video game Marvel Snap and video editing app CapCut are still down for the count.
TikTok went dark last night, causing all the influencers to lose their sh*t and take their grievances to X, Instagram, and wherever else they can hit a publish button.
Last night, TikTok’s 187 million U.S. users were greeted with a message telling them they could no longer use the app and that the company was fortunate that Felon 47, Donald Trump, would work with them to find a solution.
“Sorry, TikTok isn’t available right now. A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S. Unfortunately, that means you can’t use TikTok for now,” the message begins. “We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office. Please stay tuned!”
TikTok cooked 😂🤣 pic.twitter.com/hzQvE5N6gG
— B E A N Z The Gamer Dad(beanzgotgamez.bsky.social) (@BeanzGotGamez) January 19, 2025
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Gen Z’s nightmare scenario of either having to put their phones down or use other social media platforms to share bad takes and do dance videos came to an end on Sunday after President-elect Trump said on his bullsh*t platform, Truth Social, that he will issue an executive order on Monday to save it.
Per MSNBC:
“I’m asking companies not to let TikTok stay dark!” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. “I will issue an executive order on Monday to extend the period of time before the law’s prohibitions take effect, so that we can make a deal to protect our national security. The order will also confirm that there will be no liability for any company that helped keep TikTok from going dark before my order.”
As of this writing, the switch has been flipped back on in the U.S., with the company writing in a post on X, formerly Twitter, “In agreement with our service providers, TikTok is in the process of restoring service. We thank President Trump for providing the necessary clarity and assurance to our service providers that they will face no penalties providing TikTok to over 170 million Americans and allowing over 7 million small businesses to thrive.”
“It’s a strong stand for the First Amendment and against arbitrary censorship. We will work with President Trump on a long-term solution that keeps TikTok in the United States.”
STATEMENT FROM TIKTOK:
In agreement with our service providers, TikTok is in the process of restoring service. We thank President Trump for providing the necessary clarity and assurance to our service providers that they will face no penalties providing TikTok to over 170…
— TikTok Policy (@TikTokPolicy) January 19, 2025
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The effort to ban TikTok was started by Trump in 2020 pic.twitter.com/7npCMW08qJ
— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) January 17, 2025
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The TikTok Jig Is Loading….
While this may seem like a win for everyone, some see the jig, accurately pointing out that Donald Trump called for TikTok to be banned during the tail end of his disastrous presidency.
Popular political commentator @2RawTooReal pointed out how Trump and the CEO of TikTok, Shou Zi Chew, are in “cahoots” because Chew will be attending Trump’s now indoor inauguration ceremony. He also points out in his video that Trump wrote the EO (executive order) calling for the platform to be banned, but only for President Biden to revoke it when he took office.
2RawTooReal also points out that the law allows the president to grant TikTok a 90-day extension, allowing TikTok to find a buyer or, as he points out, allow Trump to work with the Republican-controlled Senate and House to pass a bill saving the platform, making Trump look like a hero and a champion of entrepreneurs.
He also points out that Chew shared a video of far-right political activist Charlie Kirk on his TikTok page and that the app buried his and other videos of users fact-checking misinformation about Vice President Kamala Harris.
The TikTok CEO and Donald Trump are in cahoots pic.twitter.com/IZT3HJrmni
— 2RawTooReal (@2RawTooReal) January 19, 2025
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Marvel Snap Is Still Down
While TikTok is back up, Marvel Snap is still down. Now, why, you might ask? IGN reports that the game was “developed by Second Dinner and was published by ByteDance-owned publisher Nuverse, which is what led to the ban.”
Well damn.
Second Dinner’s Chief Development Officer and Co-Founder, Ben Brode, revealed on BlueSky that the ban surprised his company.
“Unfortunately, Marvel Snap is temporarily unavailable in U.S. app stores and is unavailable to play in the U.S. This was a surprise to Second Dinner and our publisher Nuverse,” Brode wrote. “We’re actively working on getting the game up as soon as possible and will update you once we have more to share.”
He offered those thirsty to log in and give advice, suggesting they should use a VPN.
“FWIW I am hearing that VPN software will allow you to continue playing Marvel Snap in the meantime, as long as you pretend you’re from Canada or something,” he said.
What a mess.
You can see more reactions to the whole TikTok fiasco in the gallery below.
1. Donald Trump is not slick
2. Hit Charlie Kirk with the mean “this you?”
3. Accurate
4. Symone Sanders & The Weekend crew see the jig
5. Glad y’all are happy
6. This gif is always gold
7. Never forget
8. Please, don’t forget that Republicans don’t want to ban assault weapons