The new Xbox CEO Asha Sharma and head of Xbox Game Studios Matt Booty are reportedly planning major job cuts across the gaming business next month. This marks a new chapter for Sharma, in which she plans to “reset the business”. A barely-coded term for ‘lay off a lot of people’.
Which race should you reroll for at level 500?
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Those modders, eh? Never ones to be outdone. CD Projekt whip out a surprise extra DLC for The Witcher 3 following months of speculation, revealing it’s set to arrive in 2027. Naturally, that’s now also the point when a group of the RPG‘s modders are planning to have an expansion-sized resurrection of a beefy questline CD Projekt cut from the initial version of TW3 fully up and running. They’ve got a demo out already.
It isn’t an endless sandbox, though.
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**Nintendo’s Stock Price Challenges: The Mario Situation**
If Nintendo anticipated that its latest Direct would rejuvenate its falling stock price, it has encountered significant disappointment. The event, filled with announcements yet ultimately unremarkable, failed to instill confidence among investors as the company overlooked its legendary franchise, Mario.
Nintendo has consistently followed its unique path, showcased by its cherished *Rhythm Heaven* series. However, the ongoing exclusion of Mario-related content from the Switch 2 lineup is proving detrimental. With substantial price increases for hardware in Japan and persistent delays in major game announcements, Nintendo’s stock price has nosedived throughout 2026. Since January, an astonishing third of the company’s worth has been wiped out, and a brief rebound in early June disappeared following a seven-percent drop after the Direct.
As 2025-2026 marks the 40th anniversary of *Super Mario*, one might anticipate a celebration or significant announcements to align with this milestone. Instead, the recent Direct provided only a passing reference to the anniversary, culminating in the bafflement of a convoluted in-game texture pack for *Donkey Kong Bananza*. This choice left fans feeling as though Nintendo was playing with their expectations.
**Absence of Platforming**
Typically, losing a third of a company’s market value would prompt decisive measures. Nintendo perhaps hoped that a vague teaser for an *Ocarina of Time* remake would turn fortunes in its favor. While an update of this treasured title is certainly thrilling, the excitement surrounding it softened the announcement’s effect, particularly since it had been widely speculated prior to the Direct. Rather than a dynamic presentation, viewers were shown a slow scan of artwork that inadequately showcased the game’s upcoming release.
This strategy may resonate somewhat with devoted fans, but it does little to appease shareholders. The aspiration for a rejuvenated, thriving Nintendo is grounded not merely in profits but in job preservation and the possibility of pioneering game advancements. The anxiety and disappointment for gamers who invested in the Switch 2 is increasing, as they fret over whether their hopes will be fulfilled.
**Avoid Further Pitfalls**
While the circumstances may appear grim, it is crucial to keep perspective: Nintendo is not in immediate jeopardy. Recent drops in stock price are significant but do not place the company in a vulnerable position like many others would endure after similar setbacks. Despite these hurdles, Nintendo’s current valuation remains fourfold its 2015 figure, even amidst considerable growth in the last decade.
The absence of announcements regarding a new 3D *Mario* game has been particularly harmful, highlighting the gap between Nintendo’s strategies and market expectations. Even after being cautioned by market responses in May, the lack of a *Super Mario* reveal in the June Direct was puzzling. Over a year into the Switch 2’s lifecycle, the lack of even a hint at an upcoming title continues to remain bewildering.
As Nintendo cautiously trails its own timelines, it seems destined to concentrate solely on *Star Fox* until its release on June 25, followed by a potential subsequent *Zelda* Direct. Should this trend persist, any opportunity for a *Super Mario* announcement may be pushed to September at the earliest. While Nintendo’s dedication to its schedule is admirable, the ongoing decline in market confidence raises the question of whether the company will persist on this inflexible path or address its oversight concerning one of gaming’s most cherished franchises.
**Frontier Developments Makes Strides with New “Planet” Title and Add-Ons**
In an exhilarating wave of innovation and growth, Frontier Developments has recently grabbed attention with the revelation of “Planet Zoo 2” and the inaugural expansion for “Jurassic World Evolution 3.” Nevertheless, the esteemed developer isn’t limiting itself to sequels and add-ons. Frontier is embarking on fresh ground with the creation of a brand-new construction and management simulation (CMS) title, separate from existing series, stirring excitement within the gaming community.
The announcement first unofficially surfaced through a Discord message from Richard Stephenson, Frontier’s head of player engagement, prior to receiving formal endorsement in the company’s financial earnings document. This new “Planet Game” series is set to embody the spirit of the cherished franchise, incorporating creativity, management, and thoughtful simulation, yet it will delve into a novel environment—different from “Planet Coaster” and “Planet Zoo.”
While a precise release date has yet to be disclosed, the financial report offers a succinct timeframe: “a new own-IP CMS game is confirmed for FY28,” which translates to a projected launch period between May 2027 and May 2028. With such a timeframe, anticipation and speculation about this innovative setting are swirling within the community.
Fans have swiftly shared their hypotheses, ranging from likely concepts like “Planet Resort” or “Planet Museum” to more inventive ideas such as “Planet Studio,” reminiscent of the legendary 2005 title “The Movies.” While specifics are still limited, the enthusiasm for this upcoming endeavor highlights Frontier’s reputation for providing captivating CMS experiences.
Simultaneously, Frontier is preparing for a busy conclusion to 2026, laying the groundwork with the 13th October debut of “Planet Zoo 2.” Furthermore, the highly awaited “Warhammer 40,000: Chaos Gate – Deathwatch” approaches, noted as “coming soon” and much anticipated by Warhammer enthusiasts.
As the developer and publisher persist in broadening their gaming universe, the imminent titles and the enigmatic new franchise emphasize Frontier Developments’ steadfast commitment to creativity, innovation, and player engagement within the gaming industry.
**Valve Stops Restocking Physical Steam Gift Cards to Address Scams**
In a significant step to improve user safety, Valve has declared it will stop restocking physical Steam gift cards, with retailers expected to be sold out by the end of 2026. This decision stems from increasing concerns about the exploitation of these gift cards in various scams impacting users worldwide.
Since their debut in retail outlets in 2012, followed by the introduction of digital gift cards in 2017, Steam gift cards have emerged as a favored means for users to acquire games and content on the platform. However, Valve executives have pointed out that fraudsters have taken advantage of this method to deceive consumers. An updated entry in the Steam Support FAQ indicates that scammers routinely utilize gift cards from prominent brands like Steam to exploit individuals, prompting this tough decision.
In response, Valve is broadening its digital gift card offerings. These digital options are expected to provide a more secure and efficient experience for users, reducing the risk of fraud. Consumers will still be able to redeem any physical Steam gift cards bought prior to the discontinuation, as long as such usage adheres to relevant local laws.
The traditional use of Steam gift cards in fraudulent schemes is concerning. An investigation by Kotaku revealed a particular trend in which fraudsters use these gift cards in romance scams, mainly due to their untraceable nature and the ease of converting them to cash. Once a scammer obtains a gift card code, they can sell it at a loss on platforms like eBay or other PC key sites, complicating the recovery of funds for victims.
While Valve presents this policy change as a protective strategy for consumers, there are theories that the company aims to alleviate the burden of managing refunds related to these scams. Each scam incident typically involves several victims—the person who purchased the fraudster’s gift card and the deceived buyer—resulting in a cumbersome cycle of refunds and disputes.
In summary, Valve’s choice to stop physical Steam gift cards is part of a larger initiative to bolster security within its ecosystem and lessen the effects of scams that take advantage of these products. Moving towards digital gift cards reflects an adoption of technology for security, striving to create a safer environment for all Steam users.
**Alien: Isolation 2 – The Upcoming Chapter in Unrelenting Horror**
One of the memorable experiences for any game journalist often arises when they revisit a cherished title, particularly when that encounter is colored with personal significance. For many, myself included, the original *Alien: Isolation* elicited a gripping blend of fear and excitement. My initial experience with the game occurred in 2014 at E3, a defining moment in my professional journey, yet it was overshadowed by sheer terror as I tried to traverse the shadowy halls of Sevastopol Station, only to be pursued by the formidable xenomorph.
Fast forward nearly ten years, and the excitement for *Alien: Isolation 2* has escalated to an all-time high. Having recently experienced a demo of the much-anticipated sequel at Summer Game Fest, it was more than just a work assignment; it became a personal challenge to overcome my previous fears. Surprisingly, I emerged from the demo with little anxiety, marking advancement not only in gaming abilities but in my comprehension of horror dynamics.
While the sequel stays true to the chilling atmosphere of its forerunner, the storyline feels cohesively stitched together, linking the two games in an engaging way. The inaugural installment wrapped up with the catastrophic demise of Sevastopol, a sanctuary for xenomorphs turned tomb. However, a remnant of this battered station has arrived on a new planet occupied by humans driven by curiosity. Instead of finding survivors, they unwittingly unleash one of the lethal aliens, paving the way for a terrifying new storyline.
The continuity of the xenomorph serves as an evocative reminder of the persistent dread that *Isolation 2* encapsulates. Creative Assembly has adeptly preserved the game’s fundamental tenets: the tense game of hide-and-seek and the ambiance of inescapable fear. The xenomorph’s erratic behavior ensures that players cannot depend on set paths, intensifying the suspense. What was apparent in the gameplay was a ceaseless quest for terror; the game compels players into a battle of intellect where survival relies on every calculated choice, with confrontation being a pointless option.
*Alien: Isolation 2* is on track to be a powerful return to its origins, set to provide horror game enthusiasts with a captivating experience. Scheduled for release on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S, this sequel not only rejuvenates a classic but enhances its legacy, ensuring that players encounter the same thrilling adrenaline surge as they dodge one of cinema’s most legendary creatures. Brace yourself for another exhilarating round of cat and mouse where the stakes are nothing short of life and death—you definitely won’t want to miss it.
## The Worrisome Future of *Doctor Who*: A Series on Life Support
The UK science fiction titan *Doctor Who* has encountered a myriad of obstacles in recent times, culminating in a major declaration that has caused fans to worry about the series’ future. Showrunner Russell T. Davies has announced that he will be stepping down for a second time, this time taking his production company, Bad Wolf, with him. This exit not only cancels the highly awaited 2026 Christmas special but also leaves the cliffhanger of the contentious 2025 season finale unresolved, as the BBC seeks a new production collaborator.
### Recent Seasons and Creative Challenges
The summer of 2025 concluded an underwhelming eight-episode season featuring Ncuti Gatwa in the lead role. Gatwa’s portrayal received acclaim, yet the narrative fell short, culminating in a perplexing regeneration where the Doctor became Billie Piper, a prior companion from earlier seasons. This puzzling twist further estranged long-standing fans, leaving them with unresolved queries that will likely linger for the foreseeable future.
The predicament is exacerbated by financial support from Disney, which had partnered to air *Doctor Who* on its Disney+ platform and co-produce new episodes. However, the latest offerings did not connect with viewers, prompting Disney to withdraw its support. This exit places the BBC in a fragile position, struggling to maintain a show that now exists without the essential production assistance it once enjoyed.
### The Series’ Chaotic Past
*Doctor Who* boasts a rich 63-year legacy, marked by both celebration and strife. The series initially flourished as a low-budget production by the BBC for 26 years until its cancellation in 1989. A failed revival attempt in 1996 featuring Paul McGann resulted in another decade of silence until Russell T. Davies revived it in 2005. His reimagining achieved both critical and commercial success, highlighted by iconic episodes like “The Girl in the Fireplace.” However, after Davies stepped down in 2010, the series experienced a downturn under the guidance of Steven Moffat and later Chris Chibnall, resulting in unmet expectations and viewer dissatisfaction.
Davies returned in 2023 aiming to rejuvenate the series, yet the subsequent drop in audience engagement indicates that even his innovative approach couldn’t realign the series on its intended path.
### The Present Situation and Future Outlook
Presently, *Doctor Who* stands at a crossroads with no clear direction ahead. With Russell T. Davies’ exit, the BBC is searching for a new production entity to oversee a show that has seen its viewership decline to around two million in the UK, a sharp contrast to its peak of 11 million in 2008. The show’s international streaming rights have now transferred to AMC+, further complicating its availability and potential audience.
In his farewell address, Davies maintained an optimistic tone, asserting that while fans may face delays for new episodes, the aim is to create “more Doctor Who than a one-off.” However, the requirement for a fully developed production entity capable of upholding the costly, effects-driven nature of the show raises doubts about its near-term fate.
With its legacy in jeopardy, some might suggest that *Doctor Who* could gain from stepping back into obscurity for a decade, paving the way for a revival that aligns with modern audience expectations. The anticipation for *Doctor Who*’s next chapter brings both optimism and uncertainty, as it stands on the brink of its most significant evolution yet.
### Thrilling New Additions to PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium for June
As the summer warmth drives many inside, gaming fans will discover refreshing escape with the fresh selections from PlayStation Plus. This month, PS Plus Extra and Premium subscribers can anticipate a star-studded roster, featuring the highly awaited **Final Fantasy 16**, alongside captivating titles like **Life Is Strange: Double Exposure** and the cherished PS2 classic, **Gitaroo Man**.
On June 10, PlayStation unveiled the announcement outlining the forthcoming games that will be incorporated into its subscription service. It is crucial to remember that while some titles will be accessible right away, others will be introduced throughout the month. Here’s the schedule:
### Highlighted Titles for June
The standout release this month is certainly **Final Fantasy 16**, the newest chapter in the legendary series created by Square Enix. Acclaimed for its enthralling narrative and innovative mechanics, it allows players to explore the Final Fantasy world even further.
For fans seeking speed and thrills, **Sonic X Shadow Generations** will also be part of the mix, enabling players to dive back into a classic with additional content. Meanwhile, **Farming Simulator 25** offers a taste of rural existence, if only for a short period before resuming other gaming adventures.
The essence of this month’s selections may just be the quirky yet delightful **Gitaroo Man**, a rhythmic journey from the PS2 days that captivated players with its distinctive gameplay. It’s a title many will be eager to try on the latest consoles to see if it preserves its original appeal.
### Accessing the Games
To indulge in these games, players must sustain an active subscription to the PS Plus Extra or Premium tier. The Essential tier does not provide access to the expansive game library. Keep in mind that if a subscription expires, access to these titles ends until the account is reactivated.
### Comprehensive List of Games Available in June
Here’s an overview of all the titles added to PS Plus and their respective availability dates:
#### PlayStation Plus Extra And Premium
– **Final Fantasy 16** | PS5 – June 16
– **Sonic X Shadow Generations** | PS5, PS4 – June 10
– **Kingdom Come: Deliverance** | PS5, PS4 – June 23
– **Life is Strange: Double Exposure** | PS5 – June 23
– **Farming Simulator 25** | PS5 – June 30
– **Blades of Fire** | PS5 – June 30
– **Black Desert** | PS5, PS4 – June 30
#### PlayStation Plus Premium
– **Gitaroo Man** | PS5, PS4 – June 30
This month’s selections from PlayStation Plus are set to deliver captivating experiences for gamers seeking to evade the heat and plunge into new adventures. Whether it’s navigating a new kingdom in **Final Fantasy 16** or honing rhythmic abilities in **Gitaroo Man**, there’s plenty to anticipate in June.
