Fortnite and Mortal Kombat Unite in Upcoming Crossover
Epic Games has officially announced a collaboration between Fortnite and Mortal Kombat, set to launch with Fortnite Chapter 6 Season 2 on February 21, 2025. This crossover will introduce iconic Mortal Kombat characters Sub-Zero and Scorpion into the Fortnite universe. Players can unlock Sub-Zero through the Battle Pass, while Scorpion will be available for purchase in the Item Shop for an estimated 1,500 V-Bucks. Leaked information suggests the addition of Mortal Kombat-themed Mythic weapons and new map locations, enhancing the gaming experience with fresh content.
Study Links Gaming Loot Boxes to Problem Gambling
A recent study published in the journal Computers in Human Behaviour has found a connection between the use of “loot boxes” in video games and problem gambling, as well as mental health issues. The research, which involved 1,400 adults, indicates that purchasing loot boxes is associated with problems such as depression, anxiety, and stress. These in-game purchases may pose a future risk for gambling behaviors, particularly among children. In response, the Australian Classification Board has mandated an M rating for games containing loot boxes and an R 18+ rating for those with gambling simulations. Critics are calling for more responsible game development and regulations to protect young players from these potentially addictive features.
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl Sees Significant Improvements
Since its release in November, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl has undergone substantial updates, addressing initial concerns about its unfinished state. Over the past three months, developers have implemented multiple patches, enhancing enemy AI and introducing the A-Life 2.0 system, which makes the game world more dynamic and unpredictable. The latest patch includes 1,700 improvements, ranging from AI behavior adjustments to graphical enhancements and gameplay tweaks. These efforts have transformed the game into a more immersive and thrilling experience, fulfilling its potential and addressing early shortcomings.
‘Fellowship’ Introduces Rhythm-Based Combat in Co-op RPG
Fellowship, an upcoming co-op dungeon-crawler RPG, is set to enter open beta on Steam on February 24, 2025. Drawing inspiration from MMO dungeons and MOBA heroes, the game offers a unique gameplay experience, particularly with its newest hero, Tariq. This hammer-wielding character’s combat mechanics resemble a rhythm game, requiring players to time their attacks accurately to maximize damage. The game emphasizes coordination within a party of tanks and healers, encouraging strategic teamwork to navigate dungeon hazards and defeat enemies.
‘Avowed’ Highlights a Golden Era for Fantasy RPGs
Obsidian Entertainment’s latest release, Avowed, has been praised for its immersive world, sharp writing, and satisfying combat. The game stands out by offering players moral choices that significantly affect gameplay, reinforcing the genre’s enduring appeal through freedom and immersive storytelling. The success of Avowed contributes to what many consider a golden era for fantasy RPGs, driven by popular culture’s growing interest in fantasy genres. Upcoming releases such as the Fable reboot, Monster Hunter Wilds, and The Elder Scrolls VI further demonstrate the genre’s enduring popularity. Avowed is currently available on PC and Xbox Series X/S, and on Xbox Game Pass.
Josef Fares Discusses ‘Split Fiction’ and Co-op Gaming
Renowned game developer Josef Fares, known for his advocacy of co-op gameplay, is currently working on Split Fiction, a co-op experience filled with varied and exciting set pieces. Fares criticizes the industry’s current trend towards live service games and microtransactions, advocating instead for a purer, passion-driven approach to game creation. Split Fiction is scheduled for release on March 6, 2025, for PC, PS5, and Xbox platforms.
Jeff Minter to Remake Classic Game ‘I, Robot’
Legendary game designer Jeff Minter is working on a remake of Atari’s 1984 classic I, Robot, the first commercial game to use real-time rendered 3D graphics. Despite its historical significance, the original game was not commercially successful. Minter’s remake will add his signature psychedelic touch, faster gameplay, and elements from his previous works. The updated I, Robot is slated for release in spring 2025 across multiple platforms, including Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series X, and Atari’s VCS system.
Harrison Ford Highlights Video Game AI Strike
Actor Harrison Ford has brought attention to the ongoing strike by video game performers in the SAG-AFTRA union concerning the use of generative AI in the gaming industry. Ford praised voice actor Troy Baker’s performance in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human talent over AI-generated performances. The strike, which began in July 2024, seeks compensation, consent, and transparency from major game publishers regarding AI-generated content. Ford’s involvement underscores the importance of protecting actors’ rights in the digital age.
Upcoming Video Game Releases in 2025
The year 2025 is poised to be significant for the video game industry, with several highly anticipated titles set for release. Rockstar Games’ Grand Theft Auto 6 is expected to launch in the fall, with analysts predicting it could become the highest-grossing video game ever, potentially selling 45 million units during its launch window. Other notable releases include Borderlands 4, Mafia: The Old Country, and Sid Meier’s Civilization 7.
