A Much-Awaited Feature is Finally Being Introduced to Fortnite

Epic Games will permit players to acquire the precise amount of V-Bucks needed for purchases in the Item Shop, fulfilling a long-requested desire from the Fortnite community. V-Bucks, the premium currency in Fortnite, are crucial for obtaining outfits and various items in Battle Royale, LEGO, and more. The daily refresh of the Item Shop at 7:00 p.m. EST is a prime moment for many players, presenting new items to explore and buy.

Previously, players could only acquire V-Bucks in packages of 1,000, 2,800, 5,000, and 13,500, which often led to excess V-Bucks due to item costs. For example, the Halo Master Chief Bundle is priced at 2,600 V-Bucks, resulting in a leftover of 200 V-Bucks if a player opts for the 2,800 V-Bucks package.

Epic Games intends to address this issue by enabling players to buy V-Bucks in the precise amounts necessary, commencing in October. This modification will allow players to use their remaining V-Bucks to cover any differences, removing the necessity to purchase larger bundles unnecessarily.

The ‘Exact Amount’ feature will also be implemented in Rocket League and Fall Guys, available on Xbox, Nintendo, PC, Android, iPhones, iPads, and the Fortnite web Item Shop. V-Bucks and Rocket League Credits will be rounded up to the nearest 50 on October 10, in accordance with item costs.

For further information on this update, check out the official Epic Games website.

In the midst of the ongoing lawsuit concerning PalWorld and developer Pocketpair, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company have recently secured a new patent that complicates the situation further.

To provide context, The Pokémon Company and Palworld’s creator Pocketpair have been embroiled in a legal dispute for several months, with Pokémon claiming that Palworld violates fundamental mechanics of Pokémon games, such as using Poké Balls and traversing the world on monsters. The most recent update (prior to today) in the lawsuit indicates that Pocketpair plans to “continue to assert our position in this case through future legal proceedings.”

Nonetheless, it seems that The Pokémon Company has been granted the US Patent that covers essential Pokémon game mechanics. U.S. Patent No. 12,403,397 (discovered and outlined by Games Fray) specifies that Pokémon now holds the patent rights to summoning “sub-characters” and engaging them in a battle. The precise text of the patent states, “controlling a battle between the sub character and the enemy character by a second mode in which the battle automatically proceeds.” This could imply that sub-characters (in this instance, Pokémon) can initiate combat with one another, or it might define the battle system in Pokémon Legends: Arceus.

The language of the patent is notably ambiguous, as though it intends to cover the entire genre and potentially expose previously released games (like Atlus’ Shin Megami Tensei series) to claims of patent infringement. Florian Mueller, a patent analyst at Games Fray, called it “shocking,” stating, “The mere fact that the patent has been granted is detrimental for the video game industry.”

The patent has also sparked outrage among fans. Frustrated players have taken to Reddit to express their discontent with the US Patent. In a thread titled “Last week, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company received a U.S. patent on summoning a character and letting it fight another,” on r/Games, numerous users have shared their views on the implications of Nintendo and The Pokémon Company receiving such a broadly applicable patent.

One particularly provocative commenter remarked, “At this point let them patent 3D platformers and games where you can buy items. Absolutely insane abuse of the awful United States patent system,” while other fans have conveyed similar concerns in the thread. Although the patent delineates the specific actions a game must undertake to possibly infringe upon the patent holder’s rights (which resembles the legal jargon interpretation of Pokémon Legends: Arceus and the Pokémon Legends: Z-A battle system), fans (and patent analysts) are apprehensive about the implications this could have for the gaming industry overall.

While this patent has been approved, its impact on gaming and the ongoing Pocketpair lawsuit continues to be uncertain.

PAX West 2025 showcased a plethora of exciting previews such as *Kirby Air Riders* and [*Digimon Story Time Stranger*](https://www.cgmagonline.com/articles/previews/pax-west-2025-digimon-story-time-stranger/). However, I was particularly looking forward to *Little Nightmares III*, and thanks to [Bandai Namco](https://en.bandainamcoent.eu/little-nightmares/little-nightmares-iii), I was able to spend nearly two hours navigating through a chaotic circus. What more could I desire?

Fast forward to my initial day on the [PAX West](https://www.cgmagonline.com/tag/pax-west-2025/) exhibition floor, where I entered a space adorned with *Little Nightmares III* visuals, unsettling music, and figures dangling from overhead poles. The atmosphere was perfectly created, and the only thing I needed was the Alone to my Low, which I found in a fellow writer from Rely on Horror. He played along as I hesitated and panicked my way through each new zone.

Low and Alone are the two characters players can control in *Little Nightmares III*. Low acts as a ranged partner utilizing a bow and arrow. Brief snippets from the preview hint at his deep sadness. Alone, on the other hand, seems to serve as Low’s friend and source of solace, wielding a hefty wrench for close combat.

### “Little Nightmares III marks the first time players can experience the game in online co-op mode.”

*Little Nightmares III* is notable as it allows players to engage in online co-op mode for the first time. An AI companion is still an option. Only one person needs to own the game for both players to enjoy it together, making for a clever and user-friendly feature. Unfortunately, couch co-op is not available.

The segment we experienced was set in a warped circus filled with enormous, hunched figures I initially misidentified as elephants, along with frightening marionettes that animate if you draw near. If you feel secure enough to pause and investigate, the surroundings become increasingly unsettling. Some rooms even deceive you into believing they’re essential to explore, amplifying the tension—even though you could simply sprint past them.

The visuals in *Little Nightmares III* are the highlight of the game. The lighting is particularly impressive. Whether it’s flickering lights that allow you to glimpse shadows behind a curtain or the dim glow of a television warning you against stirring the monster in front of it, the game truly uses lighting to enhance the ambiance. The weather in this area is also extremely foreboding, creating a perfect atmosphere for scares.

### “With online co-op and game sharing capabilities, the Little Nightmares franchise is more accessible than ever before.”

Regarding gameplay, the puzzles in *Little Nightmares III* are not overly intricate. The real challenge emerges from trying to resolve them while being pursued by crazed puppets. With a partner I had just met, we successfully solved most puzzles quickly—although he did handle most of the challenging tasks. Our only troubles arose from issues with aiming and swinging with the wrench. It seemed like the accuracy was slightly off. Otherwise, the controls were straightforward, and the puzzles were interesting but not confusing.

The design of *Little Nightmares III* by [Supermassive Games](https://www.cgmagonline.com/tag/supermassive-games/) appears to embrace trial and error. In moments where I felt like I was failing, the studio reminded me that failure was part of the process, prompting me to try new approaches. For example, in a room where waves of foes were emerging, you wouldn’t know where it would end or how it functioned until you completed it.

Each new adversary introduced the necessity for communication, requiring my partner and me to regroup and rethink our strategy each time. Although there is an AI companion, we were unable to test its functionality, so I can’t comment on its intuitiveness in those moments. I believe co-op could be the ultimate way to enjoy *Little Nightmares III*.

I am also eager to discover more about the overarching narrative in *Little Nightmares III*. As mentioned earlier, subtle moments provided glimpses of emotion from Low. Despite the absence of dialogue, minimal sounds beyond the ambiance, and no visual expressions, the sorrow behind the mask is still abundantly clear. I can’t wait to see what more unfolds.

*Little Nightmares III* is set to be launched later this year across all major platforms, including PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC. With the inclusion of online co-op and game sharing features, the Little Nightmares series has never been more accessible.

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Eden Games has unveiled its newest racing game, “Garfield Kart 2 – All You Can Drift,” now accessible on consoles, along with a fresh launch trailer. Renowned for their prowess in kart racing, Eden Games has previously created titles such as “Smurfs Kart,” “V-Rally,” “Test Drive Unlimited,” and “Gear Club.” The launch trailer showcases the different skills players can employ in the game, enhancing the thrill of the “Garfield Kart” realm.

In “Garfield Kart 2,” players can choose from eight characters, including Garfield, Odie, Jon Arbuckle, Arlene, Nermal, Squeak, Dr. Liz Wilson, and Big Vicious Dog, racing on tracks inspired by the “Garfield” comic strip. The game features complete kart customization, with choices for bumpers, wheels, spoilers, design, and color, offering a tailored racing adventure.

The game enables online competition for up to eight players and includes a four-player couch co-op multiplayer mode with split-screen capabilities. “Garfield Kart 2 – All You Can Drift” is available on Steam, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch. With a price of $29.99, it provides an economical option compared to other kart racers like “Mario Kart World” and “Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds.” Fans can now participate in the race and enjoy the excitement of “Garfield Kart 2.”

**Team Coco, 2K, and Gearbox Software Unveil a Special “Clueless Gamer” Episode Starring Borderlands 4**

Team Coco, partnering with 2K and Gearbox Software, has unveiled a distinctive episode of “Clueless Gamer with Conan O’Brien,” highlighting the eagerly awaited game, *Borderlands 4*. This exclusive segment, now on YouTube, features Conan O’Brien and Aaron “Bley” Bleyaert as they delve into the realm of Kairos in a charity episode benefiting NEXT for Autism, a premier nonprofit organization focused on improving services for those with autism.

This episode was made possible thanks to the generous donations from Brian Long and Liz Day, who significantly contributed to the initiative. Conan and Bley, recognized for their humor and captivating commentary, kicked off their gaming journey with Conan humorously questioning the necessity of the game’s complex narrative. His clever jests included a light-hearted dig at the legendary character Claptrap, implying it could never be irksome.

Although he claims to lack gaming proficiency, Conan showed moderate talent as he faced off against the monsters and Rippers of Kairos, even succeeding in crashing the game during his session. Anthony Nicholson, Senior Project Producer of *Borderlands 4*, conveyed his enthusiasm regarding Conan’s participation, highlighting his dedication to the wild fun of the game and his backing for NEXT for Autism.

*Borderlands 4* is set to launch on September 12th, 2025, and will be accessible on Nintendo Switch 2, PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

The Future of Gaming: Xbox Cloud Gaming to Roll Out with LG Collaboration

Microsoft is poised to transform the gaming landscape by incorporating Xbox Cloud Gaming into automobiles, facilitated by a partnership with LG Electronics. Revealed on Xbox Wire, this venture aspires to elevate gaming experiences by integrating Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) into select vehicles equipped with internet connectivity. Chris Lee, Vice President of Xbox Marketing, underscored the dedication to enhancing gaming accessibility in diverse settings, enriching the gameplay experience for users on the go.

The implementation will occur via LG’s webOS Automotive Content Platform (ACP), enabling passengers to stream and engage with games directly from the Xbox app. The ACP, outfitted with LG Playware, converts the car’s dashboard into a multifunctional media center, similar to in-flight entertainment options. However, access to Game Pass and additional streaming services will require an automotive data plan.

This alliance with LG is integral to Xbox’s larger goal of broadening its influence, building on prior partnerships that have introduced Xbox Cloud Gaming to mobile devices, PCs, and televisions. By branching into vehicles, Xbox provides gamers unparalleled freedom in how they experience their entertainment.

Lee pointed out the capability of this innovation to transform a vehicle’s infotainment system into a complete entertainment center, offering a welcomed diversion during EV charging periods or extended journeys. Whether engaging with beloved classics or discovering new games, this advancement is set to enrich the in-car entertainment landscape.

While Microsoft has not released a specific timeline for this update, it has promised that it will be ready “soon,” heralding an exhilarating new phase in the evolution of gaming.

If you’re a creator or gamer aiming to enhance or construct a new PC, it’s essential to take the time to determine which components are the best fit for your requirements. While purchasing a pre-built PC from a store is simple, assembling one by yourself—or having it custom-built—can yield a more robust system tailored specifically to your tasks.

You’ll need to select a CPU that aligns with your workload, but we are here to spotlight some of the finest MSI components to ensure your upcoming rig excels where it counts the most. With MSI providing a variety of components that cater to nearly every budget and requirement, it’s difficult to overlook them as a comprehensive source for a new build that can perform on all levels.

Fortunately, MSI simplifies the process with products that clearly indicate their target level while offering solid value across price ranges. The MAG series represents the entry-level option for mainstream gamers, providing stability at an affordable cost. MPG encompasses the mid-to-high range, showcasing robust performance and an elegant design. Lastly, the MEG series is crafted for high-end gamers and tech aficionados. This lineup aims to provide cutting-edge technology, superior quality, and distinctive features that differentiate it from competitors.

**MSI Motherboards:**

Your selection of a motherboard determines which CPU can be installed, the amount of RAM you can support, and the expansion opportunities you’ll have in the future. Important features to consider include multiple PCIe slots for graphics cards and NVMe M.2 connectors for high-speed storage. When purchasing your new motherboards regardless of the budget, it’s wise to look for ample USB ports, integrated Wi-Fi, and high-quality audio codecs that elevate your gaming experience without needing extra sound cards, but depending on your requirements, you might discover additional beneficial features such as overclocking capabilities and power delivery, so clarify your needs to avoid becoming overwhelmed.

**Entry Level — MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI ($344.99)**

The MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI provides excellent value, PCIe 5.0, DDR5-8400+, and advanced networking for entry-level AM5 setups.

**Key specs**

– AMD B850, supports Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 CPUs with AM5 socket.
– Four DDR5 DIMMs, dual-channel, up to 8400+ MT/s (OC), max 256GB.
– 14+2+1 phase VRM with expanded, high-efficiency cooling and 8-layer PCB.
– Dual Gen5 x4 M.2, two Gen4 M.2, plus PCIe 5.0 x16 for GPU/richer storage.
– 5G LAN, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 for next-gen speed and stable connectivity.
– EZ M.2 Shield Frozr II, EZ PCIe Release, and debug LEDs for effortless system building.

**Mid-Tier — MPG X870E CARBON WIFI ($749.99)**

The MPG X870E CARBON WIFI offers cutting-edge AM5 speed, PCIe 5.0, USB4, and robust networking at excellent mid-range value.

**Key specs**

– AMD X870E chipset; supports Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 CPUs, AM5 socket.
– Dual PCIe 5.0 x16, along with one PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for best GPU/expansion bandwidth.
– Four M.2 slots (2x Gen5, 2x Gen4) featuring tool-less EZ Clip and heatsinks.
– Up to DDR5-8400+ MT/s (OC), dual-channel, total 256GB RAM.
– USB4 (2x Type-C 40Gbps), HDMI 2.1, 10+ USB rear I/O, BIOS Flashback/CMOS/reset/smart button.
– Dual LAN (5G + 2.5G) plus Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for top-tier wired/wireless networking.

**High-Premium Build — MEG Z890 ACE ($989.99)**

The MEG Z890 ACE delivers powerful power delivery, extreme DDR5, and versatile connectivity, positioning it as a premier choice for next-gen builds.

**Key specs**

– Supports Intel Core Ultra 200S processors (Arrow Lake), LGA 1851 socket.
– 24+1+2+1 phase VRM (110A digital) and Frozr thermal design for overclocking stability.
– Four DDR5 DIMMs, up to 256GB, 9200+ MT/s (OC) speeds with XMP 3.0 profile support.
– Five M.2 slots: three PCIe 5.0 x4 ready for the fastest NVMe storage, plus RAID and four SATA ports.
– Dual Thunderbolt 4 (USB4/DisplayPort).

Almost the complete MTG Spider-Man Universes Beyond collection has been unveiled since PAX West 2025. Aiming to gear up for the launch, Wizards of the Coast has revealed the Secret Lair Superdrop showcasing Spider-Man and his nefarious foes.

After PAX West 2025 unveiled numerous main card designs and mechanics from the core MTG Spider-Man Universes Beyond, Wizards of the Coast still has additional surprises planned for admirers of the Queens-originated hero. Secret Lair is WOTC’s premium offering that enables fans to acquire highly desired, specialized treatments for upcoming sets.

Similar to Sonic the Hedgehog and Monty Python and the Holy Grail: Vol. 1 & 2 prior to it, the forthcoming MTG Spider-Man Secret Lair goes all out with notable reprints infused with Marvel’s Spider-Man essence. While the primary set showcases legendary artwork from both comic and Magic: The Gathering artists, these Secret Lair treatments are exclusive to the Superdrop and are not available anywhere else.

Previously unveiled, Secret Lair x Marvel’s Spider-Man: Daily Bugle Breaking News features Daily Bugle headlines, MTG reprints, and Jonah Jamison’s flavour text casting doubts on Spider-Man’s genuine motives. In the comics, these headlines can be found in the morning newspaper, but in MTG, enthusiasts can view the art below in its complete MTG format.

This entire collection will be included in the Secret Lair x Marvel’s Spider-Man Superdrop as a complete bundle, or fans may purchase the headlines alone for $29.99 in non-foil, and $39.99 in Rainbow Foil treatments. The Daily Bugle Breaking News drop is merely the beginning; four additional full sets of MTG Spider-Man reprints are poised to evoke fans’ inner comic aficionados.

Secret Lair x Marvel’s Spider-Man: Heroic Deeds

While WOTC has maintained a sharp focus on Spider-Man’s villainous aspect, the Heroic Deeds drop introduces heroic artwork to existing MTG cards. Every card reprint not only bears Spider-Man reminiscent artwork but also incorporates flavour text directly drawn from the comics, enhancing comic fans’ immersion into the Universes Beyond of Marvel’s Spider-Man. Pricing and set details are outlined below.

– 1x Ephemerate
– 1x Three Visits
– 1x Lightning Greaves
– 1x Sol Ring
– 1x Command Tower

Although this set will also be part of the Superdrop, the Heroic Deeds collection may be acquired separately for $29.99 in non-foil, and $39.99 in rainbow foil.

Secret Lair x Marvel’s Spider-Man: Villainous Plots

Almost reflecting the previous Heroic Deeds drop, Villainous Plots introduces three of the same reprints to the MTG table, with villain-themed Lightning Greaves, Sol Ring, and Command Tower reprints. However, in Villainous Plots, rather than Three Visits and Ephemerate, the more sinister-themed Deadly Dispute and Go for the Throat have been included, featuring the villains Lizard and Black Cat.

– 1x Deadly Dispute
– 1x Go for the Throat
– 1x Lightning Greaves
– 1x Sol Ring
– 1x Command Tower

Like every other drop in the collection, Villainous Plots can be acquired as part of the Superdrop in a bundle or separately in non-foil for $29.99, and rainbow foil for $39.99.

Secret Lair x Marvel’s Spider-Man: Mana Symbiote

Previous Secret Lair treatments have drawn inspiration from earlier MTG set treatments to deliver fans a dose of nostalgia (similar to Dominaria United showcase Planeswalkers), so Marvel’s Spider-Man has taken cues from the rich history of Magic: The Gathering, engaging artist Pedro Potier to design raised foil treatments for basic lands inspired by Venom. Pedro Potier previously contributed to Phyrexia: All Will Be One Oil Slick treatments, and Magic: The Gathering has enlisted the artist once again to bring these Venomous lands to gaming tables everywhere. Each bundle includes:

– 2x Plains
– 2x Island
– 2x Swamp
– 2x Mountain
– 2x Forest

This exclusive Secret Lair drop is available solely in raised foil treatments and can be purchased as part of the Spider-Man Superdrop or separately for $59.99.

Secret Lair x Marvel’s Spider-Man: Venom Unleashed (Colours)

The final two Secret Lair x Marvel’s Spider-Man drops cater to the anti-hero symbiote, Venom. The reprints feature artwork that leans

When Bandai Namco extended an invitation for a four-hour preview of *Digimon Story Time Stranger* during PAX West 2025, I certainly felt a bit daunted. Navigating previews between PAX and [gamescom 2025](https://www.cgmagonline.com/news/awesome-indies-show-at-gamescom-2025/), I had grown used to quick sessions where I had to rapidly absorb the gameplay dynamics. Fortunately, [Bandai Namco](https://www.cgmagonline.com/news/pax-west-2025-bandai-namco/) acknowledged that this strategy would significantly undermine *Digimon Story Time Stranger,* as even with the extended preview, it wasn’t sufficient to fully appreciate everything it presents.

In *Digimon Story Time Stranger,* you assume the role of an Operator capable of traversing the human and digital realms. During my preview, I had the option to select either a male or female character, with the one I didn’t select providing guidance through my Digivice. Your mission is to enter the Digital World to explore a peculiar anomaly. For more details about the *Digimon Story Time Stranger* narrative, please check out the story trailer below.

I began with a tutorial segment in *Digimon Story Time Stranger,* where I discovered the different types (Virus, Data, or Vaccine) of Digimon and their interactions. The game does not presume that every player possesses deep knowledge of Digimon, and I valued the chance to familiarize myself with the mechanics. It is in this section that we encountered a brand-new system, a fresh concept in [Digimon overall](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/game/digimon-survive-switch-review/), the personalities.

Now, each Digimon is equipped with its unique personality in *Digimon Story Time Stranger.* Following battles and throughout your adventure, brief dialogue moments will appear with your Digimon, giving you the opportunity to chat with them. It often seemed as though they were eager to learn from you, and you would face dialogue choices that might influence their personality traits. Different types yield varied bonuses, such as enhanced attacks, critical hits, and more.

### “Now, each Digimon is equipped with its unique personality in *Digimon Story Time Stranger.*“

As the game progresses, you will gain access to the Digifarm, which offers additional methods to train and modify your Digimon’s personality. There are several reasons why you might want to undertake this, too. Evolving your Digimon typically necessitates specific conditions. At times, you might have to reach a certain capture number, while in other instances, the creature must possess a particular personality type for a certain Digivolution. Some Digimon have one or two options, while others boast numerous choices, in addition to De-Digivolutions. It’s a lot to digest.

In total, there are 450 Digimon and their Digivolutions in *Digimon Story Time Stranger.* If you’re aiming to collect everything, you’ll need to experiment with Digivolving or De-Digivolving. I felt disheartened to witness my cute, little, ball-like Digimon transform into large, muscular beings, contrary to my hopes for them to remain charming and small. Fortunately, with 999 storage slots, there is ample space for all. In combat, you can deploy three active members, have three backup options if you need to replace a fallen team, plus three guest members involved in the storyline.

There is plenty to monitor during a battle. You can identify which type is advantageous against another, or determine the weaknesses of each Digimon towards different kinds of attacks. You can employ standard assaults or summon special moves for specific damage types, or utilize defensive skills. The option to swap in different Digimon is also available, as is the ability to use one healing item per turn. It’s a lot to consider with each round, but players can choose to activate auto-battle and even adjust the speed of animations to their preference.

### “…*Digimon Story Time Stranger* truly represents