On the brink of Gamescom 2025, a dedicated Nintendo Direct highlighting “Kirby Air Riders” has been released, providing enthusiasts with all the details on Nintendo’s upcoming major racer.

Today, the “Kirby Air Riders” Nintendo Direct emerged, presenting followers of the franchise with a new glimpse at everything “Air Riders” in line with its newly set launch date in November. Following the official reveal back in April, Nintendo maintained secrecy surrounding the next “Kirby” entry until today’s Nintendo Direct unveiled everything fans could desire to learn about this fresh racing venture.

“Kirby Air Ride” originally debuted in 2003 for the Nintendo GameCube, and this new installment arrives over two decades later, exclusively for the Switch 2. The upcoming game will now offer players a lineup of riders to choose from, each possessing unique traits and capabilities. Moreover, there are new Air Ride vehicles, returning game modes, and additional Special moves for racers to utilize! The latest trailer is showcased below, as unveiled today.

Kirby Air Riders Key Features

– Riding Techniques – Each ‘kart’ or “air ride machine” can possess diverse forms and attributes. They automatically hover a short distance above the ground, as well as accelerate on their own, eliminating the necessity to press the A button like in “Mario Kart World.”

– Boost Charge – By tapping the B Button, your vehicle will descend from hover mode and land on the track, activating a boost charge. Releasing the B button after the braking phase triggers a Boost Dash. Director Masahiro Sakurai clarified that this maneuver goes beyond a mere speed enhancement, and players can negotiate turns more effectively by tilting the left stick and maintaining the Boost Charge button during sharp bends, providing an advantage in “Kirby Air Riders” races.

– An Additional Button Is Now Included – The Y Button serves as your “Special button,” activating your character’s unique Special move. Engaging rival riders and adversaries will fill up the riders’ Special Gauge, and once it’s at maximum, a Special move can be unleashed! While most characters possess one specific Special, Kirby enjoys four variations, one for each color option available for players.

– Expanding the Roster – “Kirby Air Riders” integrates a strategic dimension to its chaos by placing greater significance on rider selection. Every character in the game has exclusive attributes that can influence their chosen machine’s performance, including weight, durability, Specials, close-combat attacks, and more. Sakurai notes that this structure is intentional, explaining why Air Ride mode prompts players to choose their course first, followed by the rider and machine. The roster is extensive with inclusions from Kirby, featuring: Meta Knight, King Dedede, Bandana Waddle Dee, alongside adversaries like Cappy, Chef Kawasaki, Starman, and others. “Kirby Air Riders” also allows players to combine riders and machines freely.

– Machines – Each vehicle (similar to the riders) can withstand various levels of damage in “Kirby Air Riders” races. While most machines glide and execute jumps, it ultimately rests on the player’s decisions to secure victory.

– Copy Abilities – To balance gameplay, “Kirby Air Riders” grants all riders the power to inhale or capture and replicate an enemy’s abilities, ensuring a fair competition.

Mr. Sakurai additionally unveiled the legacy game modes and experiences set to welcome players in “Kirby Air Riders,” including the City Trial mode, described as “the centerpiece.” The mode from the original “Kirby Air Ride” is back, now broadened and improved with more areas to explore. “Kirby Air Riders” will enable players to team up in groups of 16 for its returning open City Trial mode online. This marks a significant increase from the original four-player multiplayer capacity from 2003, allowing players to navigate the vast Skyah map. Up to eight players can participate locally, introducing further chaos to the gameplay.

That isn’t the only classic mode returning to “Kirby Air Riders,” as Air Ride Mode will also make a comeback. In this format, up to six riders can race to be the first to cross the finish line. Players can engage neighboring riders, and by striking them, speed can be amplified by collecting small stars, delivering notable speed boosts to the gameplay. “Kirby Air Riders” also brings classroom experiences with its lessons mode, enabling fans to refine their playstyle before diving into competition.

Beyond all that “Kirby Air Riders” presents, Director Sakurai confirmed the game is set to launch exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 on November 20. Fans can watch the entire Nintendo Direct on the Nintendo website.

At Gamescom 2025, Nvidia revealed that over 175 games currently incorporate DLSS support, showcasing several of the year’s most eagerly awaited releases.

Nvidia is broadening the array of games that are compatible with [DLSS 4](https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/geforce/technologies/dlss/), now featuring compatibility in more than 175 titles. For those who may not know, DLSS stands for a collection of sophisticated, AI-driven neural rendering technologies designed to enhance gaming graphics—even while demanding features such as ray tracing are active.

By maximizing the capabilities of RTX GPUs, DLSS facilitates smoother frame rates and sharper visuals, even on systems that would otherwise struggle to achieve such performance. While it may not fit all scenarios, DLSS has the potential to empower an [RTX 5070](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/hardware/colorful-geforce-rtx-4070-gpu/)—or even an [RTX 5060](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/hardware/nvidia-geforce-rtx-4060-ti-8gb/)—to rival last-gen’s RTX 4080, achieving frame rates exceeding 100 FPS in many of today’s leading titles. The expanding roster of supported games strengthens the rationale for investing in RTX 50-series GPUs.

Introduced alongside the 50-series RTX GPUs, DLSS 4 enhances earlier iterations while taking advantage of new features offered by the Blackwell architecture. Through multi-frame generation, DLSS 4 allows the GPU to produce three frames for each traditionally rendered frame, greatly improving performance.

Additionally, it features DLSS Super Resolution, Ray Reconstruction, and Nvidia Reflex technology—ensuring games look superior, run more smoothly, and respond quicker, all while maintaining visual fidelity and gameplay integrity.

The announcements continued. Nvidia also disclosed that additional titles will integrate advanced technologies like path tracing and ray tracing, making DLSS more thrilling than ever. Path tracing will be available in *Resident Evil Requiem* and *[Directive 8020](https://www.cgmagonline.com/articles/previews/directive-8020-preview-sgf/)*, while ray tracing will shine in *Phantom Blade Zero*, *Pragmata*, and *Cinder City*. These upgrades promise clearer graphics and a more engaging experience—given that your GPU can manage the requirements.

*Directive 8020*

“DLSS 4 and path tracing are no longer just next-gen graphical tests — they have become the cornerstone of contemporary PC gaming titles,” stated Matt Wuebbling, vice president of global GeForce marketing at NVIDIA. “Developers are leveraging AI-driven rendering to unleash stunning visuals and significant performance improvements, allowing gamers worldwide to experience the future of real-time graphics today.”

New titles announced at Gamescom that will utilize the latest RTX technologies include:

– *Directive 8020* and *[Resident Evil Requiem](https://www.cgmagonline.com/news/resident-evil-requiem-announced-at-summer-game-fest-2025/)*, set to launch with DLSS 4 and path tracing

– *Black State*, *Cinder City* (previously known as *Project LLL*), *Cronos: The New Dawn*, *[Dying Light: The Beast](https://www.cgmagonline.com/articles/previews/dying-light-the-beast-event/)*, *Honeycomb: The World Beyond*, *Lost Soul Aside*, *The Outer Worlds 2*, *[Phantom Blade Zero](https://www.cgmagonline.com/articles/previews/phantom-blade-zero-preview/)*, and *Pragmata*, all launching with DLSS 4 and ray tracing

– *Borderlands 4* and *Fate Trigger*, debuting with DLSS 4 featuring Multi Frame Generation

– *[Indiana Jones and the Great Circle](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/game/indiana-jones-and-the-great-circle/)*, adding support for RTX Hair in September—this technology utilizes the new capabilities of RTX 50 Series hardware to model hair with greater path-traced detail and realism

To commemorate the launch of *Borderlands 4*, Nvidia is introducing a fresh GeForce RTX 50 Series bundle. Gamers purchasing a [GeForce RTX 5090](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/hardware/geforce-rtx-5090-suprim-liquid/), [5080](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/hardware/nvidia-rtx-5080-fe-gpu/), [5070 Ti](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/hardware/nvidia-geforce-rtx-5070-ti-gpu/) or 5070 desktop GPU—or a laptop with GeForce RTX 5090, 5080, 5070 Ti, or 5070

Now is the moment for all gardening enthusiasts. Singularity 6 unveils the latest update for Palia, titled Botanical Bliss, which incorporates numerous enhancements while also marking the game’s second anniversary.

Growing the free-to-play fantasy life simulation, Palia has expanded significantly with the arrival of the Botanical Bliss update. With this update, players can engage in the new Flower Bloom Event, take on quests from the new Bulletin Board, and more. In celebration of the thrilling update, the game commemorates its second anniversary by providing players with two limited-time Cupcake Plushes as login incentives: a pink cake with white icing and a red cake with chocolate frosting.

For those unfamiliar, players venture on a journey and experience their fantasies within the Palia universe, whether they are constructing their ideal home, completing quests to uncover the history of the Ancient Human, building connections with their fellow villagers, nurturing their plants, or collecting Plushies. Additionally, players can take part in engaging in-game events and activities, from exploring the Maji Market to enjoying Hot Pot card games with friends in the Underground Black Market.

With the release of the Botanical Bliss update for Palia, there’s much to discover. The initial event to take place is the Flower Bloom Event, which occurs daily at noon in-game time for every solo player and their friends to assist in blooming flowers in Kilima. During this event, the Weeder will aid in clearing away overgrown plants that could jeopardize the sprout, while the Waterer will be in charge of hydrating the sprout to ensure it blossoms into a flower. Once the flower has bloomed, players will earn rewards.

The included rewards consist of sellable weeds, Sundrop Lilies, Spice Sprouts, Wild Garlic, Gardenia Flowers, Chapaatail Flowers, Rose Flowers, Trillium Flowers, Cottonball Flowers, and much more. In addition to these rewards, players can uncover 10 new flowers, nine new planters, a floral nameplate, and a lost potato pod.

To elaborate on the 10 new flowers and nine new planters, here’s a list of what will be available during the Kilima Dynamic Event:

– Greenhome Clay Pot
– Greenhome Basket
– Greenhome Wall Pot
– Greenhome Stone Urn
– Greenhome Wood Pot
– Greenhome Terracotta Pot
– Greenhome Burlap Sack
– Greenhome Metal Pot
– Greenhome Flower Box
– Flowering Orange Bush
– Flowering Pink Bush
– Flowering Black Bush
– Flowering Blue Bush
– Flowering Yellow Bush
– Flowering Red Bush
– Flowering Purple Bush
– Coastal Bush
– Cypress Tree
– Fern

The following feature debuting in Palia: Botanical Bliss is the Bulletin Board, situated in the Kilima Village Center, where players can embark on limited-time seasonal themed quests for rewards. This month’s theme, Midsommar, includes four themed sub-bundles for players to complete, providing fresh flowers and exclusive flower-themed nameplates as rewards. Upon completion of the bundles, the monthly Bulletin Board will conclude with a final quest, offering players special rewards.

In conjunction with the new Bulletin Board, fresh Plushes are introduced to Palia. Besides the second anniversary plushes, here’s a list of plushes available during the Botanical Bliss update:

– Floatfish Toadstool Plush – Fishing where the Floatfish is typically found
– Floatfish Piksil Plush – Fishing where the Floatfish is typically found
– Floatfish Midnight Plush – Fishing where the Floatfish is typically found
– Happy Palia First Anniversary (Cupcake Plush) – Log-in Reward
– Happy Palia Second Anniversary (Cupcake Plush) – Log-in Reward

Alongside the new items and quests, Palia has undergone a quality of life enhancement. Players can anticipate improvements such as the Infinite Quest Bag, Bundle Improvement for combining items into a bundle, New Tool and Emote Accessibility Setting, and the opportunity to encounter King Hoppington XIV for currency.

Before concluding, the launch of Palia: Botanical Bliss unveils a variety of new collections and items that will be accessible in the Premium Store. The outfit sets and items that will be on offer include:

– August 18 – Beastslayer (Outfit): Shadvaraak, Sumuruu, and Kiraan
– August 18 – Yacht Club (Outfit): Vanderbilt, Carnegie, and Rockefeller
– August 18 – Torocat (Pets): Seal Point Torocat, Striped Torocat, Spotted Torocat
– August 18 – Torocat Umbrella (Glider)
– August 18 – Beastslayer (Tool Skin): Axe and Bow
– August 18 – Seagrass Gardens Landscape (Landscape)
– August 26 – Birthday Bash (Outfit): Chantilly, Tiramisu, Confetti
– August 26

One of the most frustrating experiences for a console player is witnessing thrilling gameplay, only to be confronted with the “only for PC” label immediately afterward. As a dedicated console player, this situation arises frequently, and each instance feels like a hard hit. I’ve been eagerly anticipating *Delta Force* ever since Team Jade announced it in 2024. The promise of offering fans three distinct game modes that capture everything typically seen in the FPS genre was fascinating.

Yet, I felt an instant wave of FOMO when it was disclosed as a free-to-play, PC exclusive. However, Team Jade surprised everyone with the announcement that *Delta Force* would be launched on consoles in Q1 2025, complete with all the features of the full release (not early access or beta). When that news broke, I knew I had to dive in and discover what all the buzz around the ‘free *Battlefield*’ title was about. When I was given the opportunity to pilot one of the operators featured in *Delta Force* on console ahead of time, I eagerly enlisted for the experience.

*Delta Force’s* rich legacy as a gaming franchise is thoroughly covered in CGMagazine’s earlier PC preview, and it’s fair to say the franchise is significant. But what sets it apart from others? Remarkable gameplay that players wouldn’t guess is free, frantic game modes, and a single-player campaign tied to the whole experience depicting a real-life famous historical event, *Black Hawk Down* (which is referred to in textbooks as the Battle of Mogadishu, inspired by the 2001 film of the same name).

First things first, if fans aren’t acquainted with hero shooters, *Delta Force* features gameplay that evokes the genre while functioning more like the quick-paced FPS titles that don’t fit neatly into that category. Imagine *Delta Force* as an expertly polished, large-scale experience, but starting without a price tag, placing all the risk on the developer and publisher. I’m pleased to report that Team Jade’s efforts have delivered a robust console port for fans.

Although I experienced a preview build for console, I later tried the initial PC experience to explore what the premium marketplace entails, and I found that the free-to-play notifications were entirely absent from *Delta Force* menus. Not only does Team Jade care about their game, but they also have faith in it.

I jumped into a match playing as one of the support (healing class) operators. I took on the role of the heroic Stinger, and if his impeccably styled hair hinted at anything about his capabilities, it’s that he excels just as much as the pomade he uses to keep it in shape on the battlefield. Like other hero shooters, *Delta Force* grants you access to unique perks tied to each character and class.

Stinger wields a healing pistol that resembles Mercy’s staff from *Overwatch 2*. He can heal from a considerable distance, keeping both himself and the target safe, but unlike Mercy, he can also inflict severe damage. You can equip the support class with impressive firepower, including assault rifles (the AK-74 springs to mind) and a high-caliber hand-cannon as a sidearm.

Stinger is outfitted with additional perks that enable him to aid the team in various ways. A smokescreen creates disarray for adversaries, permitting you to revive fallen allies, while smoke grenades allow for escape when under heavy fire. These two perks encourage creative thinking. Rather than merely healing, you can deploy smoke and maneuver around with your assault weaponry to provide cover fire in a massive 32v32 Warfare match, offering relief to weary teammates defending an objective.

This flexibility empowers players to strategically consider their optimal position on the battlefield to assist the team, and instead of being limited to a single role like many other hero shooters, *Delta Force* encourages all fighters to engage in the action as fully as possible. I was able to explore the two primary game modes for console (excluding the campaign, Black Hawk Down), and both operated at a silky smooth 60FPS, even during the most intense moments, on the Xbox Series X console.

While *Delta Force* assigns names to its classes, players can deploy in any manner they choose and play in a way that best supports their team. You cannot switch characters mid-battle (as is typical in other hero-based titles), but you can alter your tactics to increase effectiveness for the map. The developers also confirmed that *Delta Force* will support cross-play, though players have the option to disable it entirely to avoid encountering seasoned PC players upon its console launch, a great advantage for new recruits entering the field.

I first dove into the Operations mode. This mode struck me with significant déjà vu.

Discovering the Real-World Surge of AI: Scriptic Teases Their Anticipated Title Set in an Upcoming Britain, Featuring Ralph Ineson

From the minds behind Scriptic: Crime Stories, the BAFTA-nominated Scriptic has revealed their forthcoming interactive thriller, starring Ralph Ineson as DCI Saunders. While the title remains under wraps, enthusiasts were given a sneak peek of what the new release entails, as players assume the role of a detective partnered with DCI Saunders, confronting their ethics in a landscape dominated by AI and predictive monitoring.

Established in 2017 by Nihal Tharoor and Benedict Tatham, Scriptic, previously known as Electic Noir Studios, utilizes live-action storytelling, interactive digital platforms, and AI-enhanced formats to develop true crime games for mobile devices, consoles, Steam, and the cloud. Showcasing titles like Dead Man’s Phone to Dispatcher within the BAFTA 2020-nominated Scriptic: Crime Stories, the platform has surpassed 7 million downloads and achieved a top 10 ranking on Netflix Games.

Delving into Scriptic’s new title, the narrative centers around the real-world growth of AI and predictive surveillance, as players and their partner, DCI Saunders (portrayed by Ralph Ineson), scrutinize potential culprits highlighted by the algorithm for anticipated criminal behavior. With DCI Saunders accompanying them, the detective partner influences the player’s ethical decisions through the choices they make and the resulting ramifications.

Following the announcement of the new game, Nihal Tharoor, the CEO and Co-Founder of Scriptic, remarked: “When we launched Scriptic, our goal was to create genuinely immersive storytelling journeys – ones where the player is at the heart of profoundly impactful, realistic narratives. As our studio has evolved, we’ve strived to expand the limits of narrative gaming, creating tales that challenge players’ moral compasses, and collaborating with top-tier talent, such as the remarkable Ralph Ineson, whose unparalleled depth made him the ideal choice for the intricate role of our protagonist’s partner.”

With the actor known for Galactus from The Fantastic Four: First Steps and Cid from Final Fantasy XVI featuring in Scriptic’s forthcoming title, Ralph Ineson stated: “Working with Scriptic to realize this multifaceted tale has been an extraordinary journey. This narrative explores the increasingly ambiguous distinctions between security and omnipresent surveillance in our contemporary society.

In embodying the lead character’s partner, I recognized an opportunity as an actor to inspire an internal dialogue within players that encourages them to reflect on their own fundamental beliefs, compelling them to decide the fate of the accused, with my character serving as their confidant, which was an immensely impactful experience. Throughout the years, I’ve been attracted to roles in video games because they push me to view a character through various perspectives, and I believe players will discover that this narrative holds many unforeseen complexities.”

For further information regarding Scriptic and its forthcoming endeavors, alongside Dead Man Phone: Inmate and Broken Cover, enthusiasts can check out their website, X, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook profiles.

With the full TIFF 2025 schedule released this week, we have some leading candidates for five of the year’s most eagerly awaited films.

To commemorate the Toronto International Film Festival’s (TIFF) 50th anniversary, the organizers are presenting the finest movies featuring major stars—many of which will have their premieres for the first time. With the complete TIFF 2025 lineup unveiled this week, we have highlighted several prime films to keep an eye on at TIFF this year. This list takes into account the buzz, the performers, and some that deserve more attention or recognition. Some selections are expected, while others might not be on everyone’s radar.

Some films listed below are well-recognized as making their debut at TIFF 2025, but there are numerous exceptional titles arriving for this milestone anniversary. One such film is Richard Linklater’s Blue Moon, featuring Ethan Hawke, Andrew Scott, Bobby Cannavale, and Margaret Qualley. Another eagerly awaited title is Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery. Fans and literature enthusiasts will note that this sequel plays off Edgar Allan Poe’s The Murders in the Rue Morgue. On a more uplifting note, Rental Home stars Oscar-winning Brendan Fraser as an American actor in Tokyo dealing with severe impostor syndrome as he becomes a professional surrogate in the thoughtful and whimsical dramedy by director HIKARI.

For those craving high-stakes romance, Jonathan Edwards presents Carolina Caroline, starring Kyle Gallner, Samara Weaving, and Jon Gries. This charming, stylish road film revolving around a woman’s quest for self-discovery promises to be exceptionally entertaining. On the animated front, Ugo Bienvenu’s Arco tells the story of a realm where rainbows serve as time travelers from our future. The narrative follows 10-year-old Arco, who inadvertently gets lost in time. Produced by Natalie Portman (who also voices a character), the film’s visuals and storytelling reportedly evoke the essence of Hayao Miyazaki’s creations. I could elaborate endlessly about the remarkable films debuting at TIFF 2025, but here is a compilation of some essential must-watch titles.

Christy

Disregard her American Eagle jeans; Sydney Sweeney is reportedly delivering her finest performance yet in Christy. Check out Eden, and you’ll see Sweeney truly at her peak. Ben Foster joins her, delivering one of his most impressive performances following last year’s Sharp Corner. Oscillating between heartbreaking and victorious, the latest work from Australian director David Michôd chronicles the incredible journey of trailblazing women’s boxer Christy Martin. Foster reveals the darkness within the man who was initially Christy’s supporter and later became her abuser, but the soul of this film lies with Sweeney, who immerses herself in the role of a woman grappling with numerous demons as she battled her way to the summit.

Frankenstein

Oscar-winning director and master of Toronto, Guillermo del Toro, returns to TIFF 2025 with another breathtaking horror-monster film. Some are dubbing this adaptation of Mary Shelley’s legendary story del Toro’s crowning achievement. Oscar Isaac portrays Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant scientist tormented by ambition and his own intense desires. Extending his work beyond scientific limits to the edge between life and death, he brings a new entity into being in a breathtaking act of creation. Played in an entirely unique manner by Jacob Elordi, Frankenstein’s creature starts as a formidable, perilous beast but also possesses the dangerous ability to learn from human actions. This poses a threat to both Frankenstein and his fiancée Elizabeth (Mia Goth).

Good Fortune

Actor-writer-director Aziz Ansari co-stars with Keanu Reeves, Seth Rogen, Sandra Oh, and Keke Palmer in this amusing modern fantasy in which the angel Gabriel, frustrated with conducting minor acts of divine intervention, seeks to enhance the lives of several struggling mortals. Here, a junior angel named Gabriel intervenes. Distressed by the inequity of Arj’s situation, he compels Arj and billionaire Jeff to swap lives, believing that each can gain insight from experiencing the other’s circumstances. If you caught Freakier Friday, this may resonate similarly—albeit a much more NSFW, unholy version. Interestingly and truthfully, this film offers a commentary on contemporary social disparities.

Motor City

Motor City is a raw revenge narrative set against the industrial landscape of 1970s Detroit. John Miller (Alan Ritchson from TV’s Reacher), a working-class auto employee, has his life shattered when he’s set up by a merciless local crime lord (an intensely unsettling Ben Foster) and incarcerated. Emerging from prison years later, hardened and haunted, Miller embarks on a mission to reclaim the life—and love (Shailene Woodley)—that was taken from him, delivering a violent reckoning along the way. Ritchson consistently infuses his performances with action-oriented intensity.

With the arrival of autumn and the beginning of the school season on the horizon, there are still numerous thrilling games on the way in 2025 to anticipate.

This year has already been impressive for major game releases. We’ve witnessed the debut of a fresh Nintendo console, indulging in remarkable titles such as *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*, *Donkey Kong Bananza*, and *Death Stranding 2: On The Beach*. However, the calendar is not complete yet; with November and December currently lacking significant release dates (at least for now), there remains a wealth of upcoming games that leave us contemplating how to integrate them into our hectic lives.

Here are the 5 most notable games still to be released in 2025 that have us excited:

## 5) *Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles* (September 30)

*Final Fantasy Tactics* has long been regarded as one of the finest strategy-RPGs ever made. Released in the shadow of *Final Fantasy VII* in 1997, it occupies a cherished spot close to its more renowned counterpart on numerous “best games of all time” rankings. Nonetheless, playing it has become increasingly challenging as generations progressed—all three previous iterations have their drawbacks, such as the torturous slowdown found in the PlayStation Portable port.

Finally, the demand for an update has been addressed, and on September 30, *Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles* aims to present a definitive, modernized experience. Completely rebuilt, the enhanced version of the game boasts full voice acting, a thoroughly updated script, quality-of-life enhancements, and a revamped user interface, among other improvements. For those who wish to experience the original version, the classic mode allows players to revert to the original gameplay with the PSP English script.

The opportunity to revisit this cherished classic justifies its place on our list of upcoming games; however, it will be particularly special to witness a new generation embarking on the adventure for the first time in *The Ivalice Chronicles*.

## 4) *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* (TBA)

For fans of Samus Aran, *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* has been one of the most eagerly awaited upcoming titles for several years now. The fourth installment in the *Metroid* subseries was revealed back at E3 2017, when the original Nintendo Switch had just launched. Nintendo later expressed dissatisfaction with progress in 2019 and returned it to the original *Prime* creators, Retro Studios.

…then it vanished until last year, when Nintendo announced the official subtitle and showcased the first glimpse of gameplay. We are still anticipating an official release date; however, *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* is expected to launch sometime in the latter part of 2025 on Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. (Possibly in November?)

While it’s uncertain how it will weave into the broader narrative of the franchise, *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* will provide Samus with new psychic abilities to manipulate her surroundings or control her shots. This long-awaited title has us excited to see what Retro has been developing (along with the other powers that accompany Samus’ new third-eye suit).

## 3) *Pokémon Legends: Z-A* (October 16)

Whether or not you believe the main Pokémon series has become repetitive over 9 generations, *Pokémon Legends Arceus* was undeniably a bold, innovative move that transformed the franchise. Much like *Breath of the Wild* for Pokémon, this daring spin-off significantly altered our understanding of the series by plunging us into its ancient past with an open-world depiction of the Sinnoh region.

Now, a new *Legends* title approaches, and it ranks among our most anticipated upcoming games in 2025. *Pokémon Legends: Z-A* captures the essence of *Arceus*’ open-world exploration while confining it within the expansive urban landscape of Lumiose City in Kalos, previously showcased in *Pokémon X&Y*. Many beloved features from the original return, such as direct trainer control during battles, while divisive aspects have been set aside.

As a trainer aiming to carve out their legacy amidst Lumiose’s extensive urban renewal initiatives, players will compete in the city’s battle league by night and explore the metropolis by day. Although Nintendo and Game Freak have kept a tight lid on details, the legendary Zygarde is likely to play a central role in this new adventure when it launches on both Switch and Switch 2 in mid-October.

(Additionally, it’s introducing

Gamescom 2025: The Comprehensive Guide to the World’s Largest Video Game Expo

Gamescom 2025 is poised to be the premier gaming event of the year, eclipsing even the buzz of Summer Game Fest 2025. Held annually in Cologne, Germany, this event is essential for both industry professionals and gaming fans, providing an early look at the newest games scheduled for release in 2025 and beyond.

Jointly organized by the German Games Industry Association and Koelnmesse, Gamescom draws more than 335,000 attendees and 1,500 exhibitors from 72 nations, alongside numerous viewers engaging through digital platforms. Since its launch in 2009, Gamescom has transformed to include not only games but also various media elements, including community spaces for platforms such as Netflix and Disney+.

The complete timeline for Gamescom 2025 has been unveiled, ensuring an even larger and more impressive event than previously seen. CGMagazine has gathered all the crucial information, enabling fans to concentrate on relishing the show without the inconvenience of searching for specifics.

Highlight Events and Viewing Options:

1. **Gamescom Opening Night Live (ONL)**
– Date: August 19
– Time: 2:00 p.m. EST
– Where to Watch: [Gamescom YouTube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/@thegameawards)

2. **Future Games Show**
– Date: August 20
– Time: 2:00 p.m. EST
– Where to Watch: [Future Games Show YouTube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/@FutureGamesShow)

3. **Awesome Indies Showcase**
– Date: August 21
– Time: 12:00 p.m. EST
– Where to Watch: [Indie Arena Booth Twitch Channel](https://www.twitch.tv/indiearenabooth)

Confirmed Titles:
– *Ninja Gaiden 4*
– *Silent Hill f*

These titles represent only a fraction of what to expect, with many more surprises anticipated throughout the event. For those keen to remain informed, checking the official Gamescom website will offer additional information and insights as the event progresses.

Get ready for a thrilling week of gaming discoveries and industry knowledge as Gamescom 2025 begins, set to be a record-setting spectacle for gamers across the globe.

**BoJack Horseman: Leading the Charge for Adult Animation on Netflix**

BoJack Horseman was a revolutionary show that highlighted the possibilities within adult animation, firmly positioning Netflix as a venue for creative and captivating storytelling. Developed by Raphael Bob-Waksberg, the series was recognized for its distinct mix of comedy and profound, often thought-provoking themes. Netflix’s choice to grant Bob-Waksberg artistic autonomy enabled him to delve into intricate narratives, leading to a series that connected deeply with both viewers and critics.

**Raphael Bob-Waksberg’s New Project: Long Story Short**

In the wake of BoJack Horseman’s success, Raphael Bob-Waksberg returns with a fresh series, Long Story Short. This show signals a departure from the whimsical elements of his earlier work, concentrating instead on the everyday hurdles of family life. Long Story Short examines the nuances of growing up and parenting, presenting a more relatable and intimate narrative.

**Thoughts from the Creators and Cast**

With the series’ release on the horizon, Netflix arranged interviews with Raphael Bob-Waksberg, Ben Feldman, and Abbi Jacobson, who shared thoughts on the making of Long Story Short and what viewers can anticipate.

**Raphael Bob-Waksberg on the Motivation Behind Long Story Short**

Bob-Waksberg revealed that his journey into parenthood inspired his wish to tackle family-related themes. He pondered the intricacies of raising children and the equilibrium between preserving traditions and carving out new trajectories. This reflection formed the basis for Long Story Short, where characters are depicted in various roles, ranging from children to parents and siblings.

**Portraying the Jewish Family Experience**

The series focuses on a Jewish family, and Bob-Waksberg expressed enthusiasm about drawing from personal experiences and observations that were not addressed in his prior work. This new lens opened up a fresh creative path, enriching the storytelling with genuine authenticity.

**The Acting Journey: Abbi Jacobson and Ben Feldman**

Abbi Jacobson, recognized for her solid writing background, welcomed the chance to act in a series rich with emotional and comedic intricacies. She valued the confidence given to the actors, enabling them to fully immerse themselves in their roles.

Ben Feldman shared similar views, finding resonance in the relationships and narratives portrayed in the series. He enjoyed the opportunity to explore different dimensions of his acting skills, ensuring a lively and compelling performance.

**Fostering Connection in Animation**

Even with the often solitary nature of animation production, Long Story Short nurtured a sense of camaraderie among the cast. Frequent table reads united the team, allowing them to discover rhythms and cultivate chemistry. This collaborative atmosphere enhanced the show’s authenticity and emotional resonance.

**A Team Effort**

Bob-Waksberg highlighted the significance of gathering a cast eager to engage in the creative process. This dedication to teamwork is apparent in the show’s unified and heartfelt storytelling.

**Conclusion**

Long Story Short is set to provide the warmth, drama, and clever humor that audiences have come to associate with Raphael Bob-Waksberg’s creations. The series is scheduled to debut on Netflix on August 22, 2025, inviting viewers to delve into the complexities of family life through an innovative and engaging perspective.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is anticipated to be released later this year, but it reportedly will not be available for Nintendo Switch 2 at its launch.

This information comes from Dealab’s billbil-kun, known for accurately sharing leaks and release dates. Billbil-kun claims they can “confirm” that the game will not debut on Switch 2 when it releases on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC. This is in contrast to Call of Duty developers who stated earlier this year that they are “committed” to bringing titles to Nintendo Switch 2, although they did not specifically mention Black Ops 7.

While Microsoft has not provided extensive comments, it seems quite probable that the game will eventually arrive on Switch 2, particularly given the console’s strong sales thus far. Additionally, in 2023, as VGC reported, Microsoft entered into a “legally-binding” agreement to bring Call of Duty titles to Switch over the next decade. This announcement coincided with the EU’s proceedings regarding the Activision-Blizzard acquisition, aimed at “providing more choices to players and enhancing competition in the gaming market.”

So far, there has yet to be a Call of Duty title on Nintendo Switch, although other Activision franchises like Crash Bandicoot and Spyro have made their way to the system.

Black Ops 7 was initially unveiled with an extended cinematic trailer during the Xbox Games Showcase in June. The trailer emphasized psychological warfare, indicating that players will be under the command of David Mason in this installment. While we have yet to learn much about gameplay, multiplayer, or zombies, details are likely to emerge soon, particularly with events like Gamescom approaching.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is set to release in 2025 on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.