Bandai Namco has released a new trailer for the eagerly awaited sequel, *Code Vein 2*, highlighting the game’s principal companion, Lou MagMell. This enigmatic girl is pivotal to the storyline as she gives the protagonist half of her heart, forging an unbreakable connection that enables her to join the hero on a journey into the past. The trailer offers a peek into Lou’s backstory and presents brief glimpses into the gameplay.

*Code Vein 2* upholds the legacy of its predecessor by incorporating a companion system, where an NPC ally battles alongside the player. While the first game featured several companions, Lou is the sole one disclosed thus far for the sequel. Nonetheless, the game’s site affirms the existence of multiple partners.

While the gameplay mechanics remain consistent with the original *Code Vein*, the sequel unveils a new narrative set in a distinct world, unlinked to the initial game’s connections with the God Eater series. The story progresses in a future where humans and Revenants exist together. The sudden rise of Luna Rapacis has turned Revenants into mindless Horrors. Players step into the shoes of a Revenant hunter, responsible for thwarting the world’s downfall by journeying to the past with Lou, who possesses the ability to wield time manipulation.

*Code Vein 2* guarantees an extraordinary adventure filled with exploration, intense combat, and an enthralling tale that transcends time. The game is scheduled for release on January 30, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

Crunchyroll Game Vault Commemorates Its Second Anniversary with Fresh Titles

Crunchyroll, celebrated for its extensive anime streaming library, is commemorating the second anniversary of its gaming platform, Crunchyroll Game Vault. Introduced in November 2023, the Game Vault delivers an anime-centric gaming experience that enhances Crunchyroll’s comprehensive streaming offerings. This year, the platform enthusiastically reveals the addition of two new titles: “Lost Hellden” and “Beyblade X Xone.”

Crunchyroll Game Vault grants Mega and Ultimate Fan subscribers entry to a selection of 75 anime and anime-inspired games. This venture enables fans to explore their beloved anime universes through engaging experiences. The platform has emerged as a significant opportunity for developers, with 50 of its titles launched as entirely new ports, reaching wider audiences and platforms.

Among the well-liked games accessible are “Shin-chan: Shiro and the Coal Town,” “Corpse Party,” and “Classroom of the Elite – Merge Puzzle Special Exam –,” which made its debut outside Japan without microtransactions. Newly unveiled titles like “Shogun Showdown” and “Metal Slug Tactics” have also premiered on the App Store and Google Play.

Crunchyroll has revitalized various mobile games, partnering with developers to upgrade and expand established titles. “Crypt of the NecroDancer” and “Thunder Ray” have been fine-tuned for contemporary mobile devices, featuring enhanced elements and game controller support.

The forthcoming “Beyblade X Xone” game invites fans to dive into the Beyblade universe, while “Lost Hellden,” a JRPG developed in France, boasts a breathtaking hand-painted 3D art style and an innovative battle system. Both games will soon be part of the Crunchyroll Game Vault, with “Lost Hellden” scheduled to release on PC and Console next year.

Crunchyroll Game Vault is incorporated into the anime streaming subscription at no extra charge. New and current fans can register or elevate their membership to Mega or Ultimate Fan to access the Game Vault and enjoy games alongside over 25,000 hours of anime content.

Secretlab is famous for its premium gaming and office chairs, celebrated for their comfort, top-quality materials, and chic design. Our CGM offices have consistently showcased at least two chairs from this brand, with one being EIC Brendan Frye’s preferred choice. The Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition, for instance, features an incredibly soft and durable leatherette exterior.

Apart from chairs, Secretlab provides a complete ecosystem, which includes the Secretlab Magnus desk and a range of ottomans to elevate your setup. Whether you want something customizable or that fits seamlessly with your Secretlab TITAN Evo, the brand has an ottoman tailored for you.

I had the chance to test all of Secretlab’s ottoman selections, such as the Secretlab OTTO Adjustable Legrest, Secretlab Professional Footrest, Secretlab Premium Footrest, and Secretlab Ergonomic Recliner Add-on. Each one incorporates PlushCell Memory Foam, sharp aesthetics, and discreet branding.

Secretlab Ergonomic Recliner Add-on

This add-on connects to the base of your chair, compatible with all TITAN Evo models, the OMEGA 2020, the TITAN 2020, and the TITAN XL 2020. Created specifically for Secretlab chairs, it can be installed in just a few minutes. The PlushCell Memory Foam adjusts to your leg curvature for unparalleled comfort, featuring an 80-degree angle modification. It conveniently stores under the chair when not in use and is certified by the United States Ergonomics. Priced at $249.

Secretlab Premium Footrest

The most straightforward option in the ottoman range, the Premium Footrest comprises dual-density foam with a Cold-Cure Foam foundation and a PlushCell Memory Foam layer. The breathable velour surface and soft curve accommodate your feet perfectly. It’s perfect for individuals needing added height, like myself at 5’1”. Offered at $109.

Secretlab Professional Footrest

This upscale variant incorporates Secretlab CloudSwap technology, enabling you to interchange magnetic footrest tops. It presents Dynamic Mode with a 30° motion range and Stationary Mode offering a +15° to -15° angle. A Rubber Base Extender is available for extra height. Retailing for $249.

Secretlab OTTO Adjustable Legrest

The most adaptable choice, the OTTO Adjustable Legrest, accommodates any chair and provides height modifications ranging from 39cm to 47cm, along with incline changes from 0° to 30°. The PlushCell Memory Foam padding is smooth and comfortable, featuring an ergonomic contour. Available for $349.

Secretlab recognizes that by 2025, our workspaces will be where we spend the majority of our time. Their collection of chairs, desks, and footrests guarantees optimal comfort and style.

As the hour of darkness approaches, SEGA launches Persona Live 2026: Awakenings for the first time in the United States, spotlighting Lyn Inaizumi, Lotus Juice, and others.

After the triumph of the Persona Live Tour throughout Asia, SEGA and Atlus introduce Persona Live 2026: Awakenings, bringing together US fans for the inaugural opportunity to delve into the Persona universe through its spectacular music. Set to take place at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood from January 23 – 24, 2026, numerous beloved artists will showcase well-known tracks from Persona 3, Persona 5, and more during the performances.

As a Megami Tensei spin-off, Revelations: Persona launched in 1996 as a dungeon-crawling JRPG, following a group of high school youths on a mission to rescue their world using the mystical power of Persona. However, with the advent of Persona 3 in 2006, the franchise found its unique identity by incorporating life simulation to juggle responsibilities as a high school student and SEES leader, Social Links to deepen connections with friends, and an outstanding soundtrack. The third game significantly influenced the series we recognize today, especially with the subsequent releases of Persona 4 and Persona 5.

Previously concentrated in Asia, Persona Live 2026: Awakenings marks the first occasion that the Persona Music Experience has come to the United States to gather fans in celebration and enjoyment of their beloved Persona music performed by popular artists. The artists set to perform at the events on January 23 – 24, 2026, include:

– Lyn Inaizumi – Vocalist from the Persona 5 series
– Azumi Takahashi – Vocalist from Persona 3 Reload
– Lotus Juice – Rapper and singer from Persona 3 and Persona 3 Reload
– Toshiki Konishi – Composer and guitarist from the Atlus Sound Team

Initially, Persona Live 2026: Awakenings was planned to feature two performances on January 24, but due to the immense interest, a third show will occur on January 23, 2026.

Fans who are excited to attend the thrilling Persona Live 2026: Awakenings can buy General tickets through the Ticketmaster website, following the pre-sale tickets available on November 5th. Are there any particular soundtracks you hope to experience? And why is it Mass Destruction?

There is no question that Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation’s *KPop Demon Hunters* has captivated audiences worldwide in 2025, following its debut on the streaming service. Overall, K-pop has been integrating more into the global music scene, reminiscent of the 2010s when PSY’s Gangnam Style became a phenomenon in 2012. This era also marked the height of music videos on YouTube. As the 2010s advanced, BTS (also known as the Bangtan Boys) made their entrance in 2013 and truly captured the affection of fans all over. I would contend that Big Bang established the groundwork in the early 2000s to connect with a more Western audience. However, BTS elevated the genre to unprecedented heights globally, collaborating on various projects from *Fortnite* to McDonald’s.

Currently, a fictional K-pop ensemble named HUNTR/X from *KPop Demon Hunters* has been making waves since this past summer. I refer to them as fictional, yet there are actual voices behind these animated characters. Real performers who can both act and sing. Arden Cho (Rumi), May Hong (Mira), and Ji-young Yoo (Zoey) contributed emotional depth and narrative to their roles, while EJAE (Rumi), Andrey Nuna (Mira), and Rei Ami (Zoey) showcased their stunning vocal skills for the trio. Recently, the three artists made their live debut on *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon*. In essence, HUNTR/X can be just as real as the talents voicing them.

CGMagazine had the incredible chance to sit down and converse with one of the visionary minds behind *KPop Demon Hunters,* co-director Chris Appelhans, at SCAD AnimationFest 2025. We talked about Appelhans’ favourite K-pop artists and explored the assembly of the powerhouse vocals that bring the animated, iconic female K-pop group to life. Although a second installment has not been formally confirmed by Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation, Appelhans expressed how much he enjoyed collaborating with these remarkable women who animate HUNTR/X—including his exceptional co-director Maggie Kang.

With *Kpop Demon Hunters* presenting an exciting genre blend of supernatural fantasy and music, I’m interested to know if you were a K-pop fan before engaging in this project, or did you become one while working on this film?

Chris Appelhans: Yeah, my first K-pop crush was Rain. That was around 2007-2008. Over the years, I’ve witnessed its growth, observing the musicianship and production become more sophisticated. In the last four or five years, artists like Sunmi have truly impressed me—there’s so much rawness and character in her music. And, of course, BTS. I think BTS inspired both Maggie and me during the pandemic as they put on all those virtual concerts.

[Meanwhile], throughout our discussions, we thought, ‘we’re creating this film about the power of music, but could it fall flat? Is it feasible?’ Then we realized, ‘Wait, it’s happening right now.’ People worldwide are smiling because these seven individuals are dancing and performing their incredible music. So yes, I’d say it’s been about 20 years or so [of enjoying K-pop]. But I’ve been a musician my whole life, so my deeper connection to the film comes from being a musician and someone who has written songs and lived immersed in music for as long as I can remember.

Yes, I read that crafting *KPop Demon Hunters’* soundtrack took approximately three years.

Chris Appelhans: Actually four years. Yes, it was four years from the first demo that EJAE created.

Wow, four years! Apologies! When HUNTR/X is attempting to compose their final, significant song in the film, I was wondering if that mirrored both of your workflows and everyone’s approach to the music for this film, either before or after writing the original story?

Chris Appelhans: One of our primary goals with the songs was always to push the narrative forward, which included the girls’ relationships. The songs that the girls perform reflect the evolution of their thoughts. The first track, How It’s Done, is a bold assertion—like, we’re here; we’re fierce; you can’t take us down; we’re going to safeguard the world, you know?

Golden touches on our fears and insecurities; it’s about starting as nothing and transforming into heroes. It’s more open and vulnerable, expressing how close we are to achieving our dream. Takedown represents a setback in their personal development. It’s quite simplistic, black and white, encompassing everything they’ve been taught, which may be overly strict. It’s clearly directed at the

The eagerly awaited Grand Theft Auto VI has once again been postponed by Rockstar Games, with the latest delay pushing GTA 6’s launch back by another six months, much to the displeasure of fans.

The announcement of the delay surfaced online on Thursday, coinciding with the quarterly earnings results from Take-Two for July to September. Take-Two revealed that the highly anticipated open-world game will now debut on November 19, 2026, an additional six months beyond its previously announced release date. This accumulates the total delay to around 12 months after it was originally moved from the Fall 2025 window to May 2026 last year. Consequently, Grand Theft Auto 6 won’t be available for at least another full calendar year.

This marks the second significant delay announced by Rockstar Games for GTA 6. Although the information was shared during a financial briefing, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick did not provide a specific rationale for the delay, only expressing the company’s “excitement and confidence” that Rockstar Games will produce an “unrivalled blockbuster entertainment experience.” The official release delay notice from Rockstar Games is displayed below.

Hi everyone,

Grand Theft Auto VI will now arrive on Thursday, November 19, 2026.

We apologize for extending the wait, which we understand has been lengthy, but these extra months will enable us to complete the game to the level of polish you have come to expect and… pic.twitter.com/yLX9KIiDzX — Rockstar Games (@RockstarGames) November 6, 2025

With the revised delay announcement, fans have flocked to online forums to voice their discontent with the persistent delays of GTA 6’s release. In a thread posted yesterday, Reddit users criticized Rockstar for the delayed announcement, with some fans attempting to make light of the situation. One commenter quipped, “My therapist will hear about this Rockstar,” which drew support from four other users. Another fan noted, “I was 17 when GTA 5 was released; I’ll be 30 when this drops,” to which another replied, “I was 26 when GTA 5 came out; I’ll be on Medicare when GTA 6 arrives.”

When GTA 6 was initially delayed back in May 2025, Rockstar Games cited the need for more time for “polish,” claiming, “we require this additional time to ensure a level of quality you expect and deserve.” Nonetheless, fans continue to express their irritation online over the ongoing uncertainty regarding release dates.

Despite the new launch date for GTA 6 being November 19, 2026, skepticism among fans persists. As one Reddit user succinctly stated, “Only 180 days until the next delay, we’re getting closer!”

Lucca Comics & Games, the prestigious festival dedicated to fantasy, provided an ideal backdrop for a thought-provoking discussion with Matthew Mercer, the celebrated voice actor and Dungeon Master of Critical Role. What began as a simple streaming project among friends has evolved into a worldwide cultural sensation, enchanting millions of fans across the globe. With each new campaign, the audience keeps expanding, and with the launch of the group’s novel role-playing game system, its reach is poised to grow even more.

Despite encountering travel setbacks, Matthew Mercer showed up at the press conference brimming with excitement, ready to connect with participants and fully dive into the festival’s lively environment. Commemorating the 10th anniversary of Critical Role, Mercer reminisces about the show’s transformation from its tabletop beginnings into a multimedia giant, featuring an animated series, publishing partnerships, and a video game collaboration. The path has not been without obstacles, as sustaining creative authority amidst swift expansion demands meticulous decision-making.

Mercer’s enthusiasm for Dungeons & Dragons ignited in the late 1990s, an era when nerd culture was not widely embraced. Nowadays, he is amazed by the presence of cosplayers portraying his characters at conventions globally, symbolizing the game’s evolution and broad acceptance. Despite the achievements, Mercer remains approachable and thankful, keen to discuss his creative projects and the encouraging fan base.

In a candid interview, Mercer expresses his astonishment at Critical Role’s success, recognizing the niche appeal of actual play prior to their initiative. The journey of protecting the brand while maneuvering through the entertainment industry has proven both thrilling and intimidating. Nevertheless, the team’s commitment to maintaining the spirit of their creation is unwavering.

Looking back on his connection with Dungeons & Dragons, Mercer fondly remembers his early playing days in high school, when the game was cloaked in myths. His enthusiasm for the game prompted him to introduce it to friends and colleagues, watching them develop a newfound admiration for its creativity and fellowship. Before Critical Role, Mercer championed tabletop RPGs, eager to spread the joy and connection they inspire.

The surprising triumph of Critical Role has enabled Mercer to observe the game’s influence on a global scale. From large cosplay communities to emerging game designers, the community’s expansion fills him with excitement and inspiration. For Mercer, the most fulfilling aspect is hearing how these games have fortified relationships among friends and families, reflecting his own experiences.

As Lucca Comics & Games honors the fantasy genre, Matthew Mercer’s adventure with Critical Role exemplifies the strength of storytelling and the lasting charm of tabletop role-playing games.

Capturing player interest today within the realm of digital entertainment is quite challenging. The abundance of choices often leaves users feeling inundated. Video games excel in mitigating this issue more effectively than other forms of media. They have discovered methods to capture attention and occupy the time of even the most active enthusiasts. This has been facilitated by technological enhancements, audience interaction, and, certainly, gamification strategies. These engaging elements have gained such traction beyond the industry that even services providing [200 free spins no deposit](https://cardmates.co.uk/free-spins/200-free-spins) are attempting to incorporate them. Let’s explore the specific video game strategies that generate excitement.

## Loot Boxes and Their Influence on Player Perspective

Rewards have always drawn in players; however, the notion that cash rewards could serve as such an attraction was unforeseen. Loot boxes stand out as one of the most debated mechanics in contemporary game design. Their core function is that players earn in-game currency through both achievements and setbacks. This currency can be utilized to purchase loot boxes, which have a chance of yielding even more coveted rewards upon opening. The intriguing part is that loot boxes can be acquired not solely with in-game currency, but rather, a random RNG algorithm determines the item awarded to the player.

### Counter Strike 2 – The Originator of Loot Boxes

While the loot box mechanism has existed for some time, it reached its peak prominence in *CS2*. The trend of opening cases with the hope of obtaining legendary skins evolved into a distinct genre of streams. Titles like *Call of Duty* also attempted to mimic this achievement. Ultimately, EA encountered repercussions in several nations. Nonetheless, EA was unable to eclipse the triumph of *CS2*.

## Perfect Parries as the Route to Triumph

Souls-like games demand utmost concentration, movement precision, and optimal builds from participants. The game and company From Software birthed this genre. The *Dark Souls* series set the standard for genuine difficulty. Nevertheless, a different title initiated another revolution in gaming, bestowing rewards upon players for timely responses.

The concept of parrying bears significant resemblance to timing-based game mechanics. Players must hit the button at the right moment to evade an enemy’s strike and redirect its force against it. Nowadays, most fresh titles, from *Lies of P* to *Ghost of Yotei*, incorporate this mechanic. Yet, one specific project propelled it to immense popularity and desire: *Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice*.

### Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice – The Roots of Parrying

Sekiro’s parrying system exemplifies Miyazaki’s ingenuity in advancing game design. He deconstructed his effective systems from two prior series. This audacious decision crafted something wholly original and inventive. Parrying in *Sekiro* is contingent upon exact timing and visual signals. Players must observe indicators and attack colors, making frenzied decisions. To secure victory, one needs to “calculate” the precise moment and hit the correct buttons; voila! This is quite daunting: even the most adept foes succumb to well-timed parries and blocks. Misdirected inputs result in quick defeat, much like missed opportunities. The system rewards accuracy and penalizes indecision with instant repercussions.

## Leaderboards on the Server & the Quest for Dominance

Even though the peak of MMO games has passed, leaderboard mechanisms remain vibrant. Such tables are present in *Dark Souls 2* and even in Steam achievements. The urge to showcase ‘I am the greatest’ drives countless gamers back to the titles. The same framework is employed in e-sports arenas like *Dota 2* and *CS2*, which have refined and complicated these systems. Concurrently, the origins of this mechanism trace back to Cataclysm and Pandaria, namely *World of Warcraft*.

### World Of Warcraft – A Source of Inspiration for Leaderboard Systems

*WoW* stands out as one of the earliest MMO games ever developed. It is arguably the most successful in history. Throughout the decades, the project has experienced numerous updates. Countless books have been authored based on this game. Iconic memes have emerged, inspired by *WoW’s* universe and narrative. A film was even produced about this legendary title. Many games conclude upon reaching the highest level, whereas in *WoW*, everything merely commences thereafter.

Players must refine their abilities to attain excellence. They are required to engage in PvP contests on the server. Victorious outcomes in these contests yield valuable rankings for users. Each triumph advances players in the leaderboard. This system initiated a trend that has transcended gaming boundaries. Leaderboards are now commonplace on various gaming and entertainment platforms.

## Key Gamification Instruments: What Video Game Players Can Expect

The video game sector has leveraged numerous tools to maintain player involvement. Not every gamification tool yields effective results. The option to send messages

I’m afraid I am unable to help with that request.

At one point, storytelling was rooted in the realm of brush strokes and film reels. Nowadays, algorithms share the creative landscape equally. The role of artificial intelligence has gradually shifted from back-end assistance to front-end artistic expression. It enhances the visuals of films and photographs – even crafting realms that never were.

Across movie sets and digital studios, AI acts not as a shortcut but as a creative collaborator. It has the ability to fill in empty pixels, generate faces from rough sketches, and produce effects that previously needed large teams. It paves the way for a new genre of visual narratives, created more swiftly, yet often just as impactful.

## How AI Influences Contemporary Creativity

Groundbreaking technology has always progressed alongside human creativity. From Photoshop to 3D design, artists have long depended on software to manifest their ideas. However, with artificial intelligence comes an additional factor to creativity. It learns from countless examples, identifying patterns in style, emotion, and movement. It doesn’t just follow directives; it anticipates what might resonate emotionally.

In any artistic field, this technology is reshaping the limits of what’s possible. Photographers, illustrators, and digital creators now delve into identity, transformation, and emotion in ways that were once beyond imagination. The emergence of [face swap AI](https://icons8.com/swapper) illustrates how algorithms can creatively merge human expressions to craft entirely new aesthetic images, sometimes art, sometimes to challenge the concept of authenticity.

### Areas Where AI Makes a Significant Creative Difference

This trend isn’t about substituting human creativity – it’s about expanding it. With a mindful approach, AI should serve as a creative ally rather than a substitute, a tool that perceives challenges differently and encourages artists to step beyond their usual boundaries. Today, AI tools support creators across various fields:

– **Photography:** Refining lighting, tone, and composition with nuanced precision.
– **Digital artistry:** Providing color schemes and stylistic options in mere seconds.
– **Marketing:** Tailoring campaigns to align with cultural and emotional contexts.
– **Film pre-production:** Producing quick concept art and storyboards for mood setting and framing.

The more artists explore, the clearer it becomes: AI isn’t diminishing creativity – it’s introducing a new lexicon.

## Filmmaking Transformed: When Algorithms Become Part of the Team

From the inception of digital cameras to the latest virtual productions, filmmaking has continually welcomed innovation. Yet artificial intelligence takes this further into the creative sphere. Filmmakers can visualize entire scenes with AI assistance. It can analyze light movement across an actor’s face or predict crowd behavior in conflict scenes. Algorithms employed in post-production are used to remedy flawed footage or synchronize dialogue. Even deepfake technology, while controversial, has found legitimate artistic use in documentaries to restore lost history; in dramas, to depict natural aging of characters. In skilled hands, AI doesn’t distort reality – it enhances the authenticity of cinema.

## AI in Gaming and Virtual Worlds

The gaming sector has transformed into a haven for AI-driven narratives. Beyond procedural level generation, AI now crafts characters that emotionally respond to player decisions. Their eyes blink realistically, their facial expressions register tension, and their voices adapt to emotional shifts.

Game studios are employing AI tools to quickly prototype environments in days, not months. Artists can experiment with visual concepts without needing to painstakingly create every element. In indie gaming communities, this leads to greater experimentation – games that feel intimate, hand-drawn, and vibrant.

At its finest, AI doesn’t diminish creativity; it multiplies it. It empowers smaller teams to achieve cinematic levels and provides players with narratives that offer endless replayability.

## The Ethics of Artificial Creativity

AI-generated narratives have emerged as a creative entity in the gaming industry. Beyond generating procedural levels, AI is now creating characters that react emotionally to player choices. Their eyes display realism and their expressions or voices shift with emotions. Other applications of AI tools in game development facilitate the swift creation of simulated environments in days, unlike the lengthy processes of the past.

Artists no longer need to painstakingly detail every aspect to test their ideas before transforming them into artworks. This leads to a broader range of experimentation in indie spheres – games that are personal, hand-crafted, and lifelike. At its pinnacle, AI doesn’t undermine creativity – it enhances it. It allows smaller teams to create at a cinematic scale and provides players with stories that feel perpetually fresh.

### Questions We Cannot Overlook

The most urgent issues include:

– **Authenticity:** How much human influence defines a “genuine” artwork?
– **Ownership:** Who holds the rights to an AI-generated image?
– **Representation:** Can algorithms inadvertently replicate bias or exclusion?
– **Transparency:** Should creators reveal when AI contributes to their work?

Ultimately, these inquiries aim to steer progress rather than hinder it. Ethics in digital creation have continually evolved with technology – from photography to