At last, *Magic: The Gathering—Final Fantasy* has come together, merging the world’s leading trading card game with the renowned Japanese role-playing game series. Wizards of the Coast and Square Enix have partnered to create [a grand, threefold homage to the franchise](https://www.cgmagonline.com/interviews/mtg-final-fantasy-design-interview/) *and* [an excellent method to immerse newcomers in its themes and characters](https://www.cgmagonline.com/articles/editors-choice/ec5-final-fantasy-games/).

Since two of my favorite games have fused in such an impressive manner, this is a fantasy fulfilled for me, as someone who tends to embrace the Vorthos aspect of *MTG*. Crafting decks that resonate with my favorite video game franchise and participating in drafts with friends has been the most enjoyable experience I’ve had since we began playing regularly 15 years ago.

Thus, after nearly two weeks of experimenting with new builds, themes, and combinations, I’ve compiled some of my favorite deck themes up to this point—drawing inspiration from the set itself, striving to capture [the essence of *Final Fantasy*](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/game/final-fantasy-pixel-remaster-series/) while also standing firm in *Magic Arena*.

## Villains (Black, Red, Blue)

[Final Fantasy is famous for its memorable villains](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/game/final-fantasy-vii-rebirth-review/), and *MTG* utilizes them effectively in this set as double-faced cards. The majority of the main bosses from the 16 core games are represented; some games’ ultimate foes are absent, while others have swapped their final boss for a more recognizable and intriguing alternative (for example, [*Final Fantasy IV*‘s Golbez](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/game/final-fantasy-iv-pixel-remaster-review/) appearing in place of final boss Zeromus).

Additionally, there are noticeable patterns regarding color identity. Out of the 14 cards portraying key villains (including both *FFXIV*‘s Zenos and Zodiark), black features on 11 of them, with blue and red appearing 4 times each. Since they originate from diverse worlds and titles, they each execute unique abilities with little overlap, but it is still feasible to create an enjoyable themed deck centered around a collection of final bosses.

Each card makes a significant impact upon entering the battlefield, allowing for some wicked blue-black-red tactics worthy of a climactic encounter in a Final Fantasy game. [Sephiroth, Fabled SOLDIER](https://gatherer.wizards.com/FIN/en-us/115/sephiroth-fabled-soldier) distinctly shines with his formidable abilities, especially considering the numerous methods to ensure multiple creatures enter the graveyard in one turn and trigger his transformation—combine him with [Ardyn](https://gatherer.wizards.com/FIN/en-us/89/ardyn-the-usurper) or [Garland/Chaos](https://gatherer.wizards.com/FIN/en-us/221/garland-knight-of-cornelia), and you’ll present a daunting force on the board.

(This type of villain collaboration might be the [closest we have to a satisfying *Dissidia Final Fantasy* revival](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/game/dissidia-final-fantasy-nt-ps4-review-waiting-game/) for a while, so make the most of it.)

## Summons (Green/White/Red)

More emblematic than the villains are the summons, powerful creatures that can be invoked to unleash chaos on a battlefield. *Magic: The Gathering—Final Fantasy* showcases their temporary aid through Sagas, a type of Enchantment Creature that activates various effects each turn but only lasts for a limited number of turns. It’s a sophisticated method of transforming the game effect into *MTG* language (and the artwork on the cards is breathtaking).

While there is a wide array of Summon cards to match different decks, a deck focused on summoning and summoners stands strong on its own. [Garnet, Princess of Alexandria](https://gatherer.wizards.com/FIN/en-us/222/garnet-princess-of-alexandria) can discard lore counters from Sagas when she attacks, converting them into +1/+1 counters; she enhances her own strength, prolongs the presence of the summons, and allows their effects to retrigger. Should those summons find their way to the graveyard, [Rydia, Summoner of Mist](https://gatherer.wizards.com/FIN/en-us/239/rydia

Mobile and PC gaming frequently seem like distinct realms, yet Marvel Contest of Champions is merging these experiences. In May, the developer Kabam introduced a PC version of the game for direct download, with its official release on Steam following on June 18, 2025. With over 225 million downloads thus far, Marvel Contest of Champions has established a substantial audience on mobile devices, and these recent launches are expected to broaden that reach even more.

Marvel Contest of Champions has just marked its 10th anniversary, a significant milestone for any game, particularly one that began on mobile. To commemorate both the anniversary and the Steam launch, we interviewed Kabam to explore these noteworthy accomplishments. We spoke with Charles Busch, Senior Producer at Kabam, about the evolution of Marvel Contest of Champions and what might lie ahead!

Marvel Contest of Champions has just celebrated its 10th anniversary. How does that feel?

Charles Busch: It’s a little surreal. Very few live service games endure as long as Contest has, and working on a game with such a devoted team and player base has been an extraordinary experience.

How has Marvel Contest of Champions evolved over the last 10 years?

Charles Busch: The Contest initially featured quite basic RPG mechanics and limited content — mainly just Story Quest and Arenas. Throughout the years, we have retained the core Rhythm-based fighting that players cherish, but the complexity of the RPG aspect has grown, new Champion playstyles have emerged, and there are more ways to engage in the game than ever.

Marvel Contest of Champions has introduced an abundance of content in the past decade. What has been the most well-received update to date?

Charles Busch: One of our most successful updates was the Battlegrounds game mode — you create a deck of 30 Champions, navigate through pick and ban phases, and compete directly to achieve the highest score. This significantly enhanced our game’s competitive environment and formed the foundation of our Battlerealm Brawl tournament.

With over 300 characters available in Marvel Contest of Champions, how does Kabam maintain balance?

Charles Busch: We strive to establish very clear objectives at the start of the design process. Which Champions should counter others? What level of damage, survivability, utility, and defensive threats should they possess? We then validate this with quantitative data — comparing stats with similarly rated Champions, and qualitative data — conducting numerous playtests to assess the player experience. When we fall short, we implement balance updates. We’re also incorporating more reworks into the timeline to update some of our older Champions to modern standards.

What has the feedback been regarding Marvel Contest of Champions via direct download on PC, as well as the Steam demo, thus far?

Charles Busch: Like any game, we have both supporters and critics. Many players appreciate the option to use a controller with enhanced visuals on larger gaming screens — while some have concerns regarding F2P game mechanics or Easy Anti-Cheat. Regardless, I am hopeful about the performance of the PC version.

Marvel Contest of Champions was featured in Steam Next Fest prior to its Steam launch. What does Steam contribute to the Marvel Contest of Champions community?

Charles Busch: There are numerous players who are not particularly engaged with mobile gaming — they prefer using their dedicated gaming setups. Through our launch on Steam, we aim to connect with these players who may be unfamiliar with the Contest and encourage them to try out our game.

Will Marvel Contest of Champions come to Steam with the entire library of content, and will future updates be simultaneous across all platforms?

Charles Busch: The Contest experience features full Crossplay — mobile, PC, both; play where and how you prefer. The complete Contest experience is available on PC, and future updates will be released for both mobile and PC at the same time.

What does it take to transition a game that was solely mobile-based to PC platforms?

Charles Busch: For a game with such a rich history as Contest, there is a lot involved. We have over 300 screens/modals and more than 300 Champions in our game. It was a considerable effort to ensure they all adapted well to PC and the new control methods.

Were there any aspects of Marvel Contest of Champions that you were concerned would not transition to PC?

Charles Busch: Our main worry initially was about the controller experience. Would the gameplay feel enjoyable on a controller? Would controllers provide too much of an advantage and feel unfair to mobile-only players? I’m pleased to report that we ultimately managed to get this into a good place.

How is the Kabam team ensuring that Marvel Contest of Champions can attract new players on Steam and via PC direct download without making them feel like they’re a decade behind?

Charles Busch: There are currently various early game initiatives in progress to ease the initial gaming experience.

Riot Games and VALORANT have introduced a fresh map, Corrode, at the VALORANT Masters Toronto 2025, scheduled for release on June 25th. This represents the 12th map for standard play, succeeding Abyss. Corrode focuses on strategic gameplay with its defensive attributes and a clear mid lane, minimizing the dependence on ability use. Streamers tarik and Disguised Toast demonstrated the map during a showmatch at the event. Corrode is set in a French castle town repurposed as a radianite salt mining facility on Omega Earth, featuring two spike sites, a three-lane configuration, and multi-layered defenses. The map’s design showcases the climatic shifts brought about by First Light, with distinctive visual features like salt crystallization. Riot Games is providing launch incentives, including lower RR loss for initial competitive matches and a specific Swiftplay queue. The map is crafted to tackle issues like excessive Agent utility. The new act also rolls out the Phaseguard Collection and a Battlepass filled with various items. VALORANT Season 2025 // Act IV and the Phaseguard Collection will be launched on June 25th and 26th, respectively.

Do you recall the times when you were engrossed in a video game, lost in a fantastical realm, and an NPC would unexpectedly show up, utter random phrases, and move in infinite loops, a clear signal that you were indeed engaged in a game? With the advent of artificial intelligence in gaming, that phase is rapidly becoming a thing of the past. AI is transforming the behavior of NPCs, making them more intelligent, responsive, and strikingly lifelike.

This transformation isn’t confined to high-end RPGs or adventure titles. AI is altering character dynamics across all gaming categories. Even in casual online card games, where gamers might wish to play poker online free, AI-driven players (filling vacant spots) now provide more authentic reactions and gameplay. Instead of playing against predictable computer rivals adhering to fixed strategies, players encounter virtual characters that bluff, adjust to various play styles, and even mimic human uncertainty or assurance.

This extensive application of artificial intelligence is cultivating more immersive experiences throughout all kinds of games, making virtual environments and their inhabitants appear increasingly authentic.

This article investigates how AI is significantly influencing NPC behavior—from basic navigation to spontaneous dialogues and emotional reactions.

Scripted NPCs

The evolution of technology in gaming has been remarkable. Historically, non-playable characters (NPCs) depended on pre-written scripts that restricted their interactions with players. Dialogue trees were typically brief and rigid, resulting in conversations that followed a predetermined route and often felt stiff or mechanical. NPCs acted in repetitive, foreseeable patterns because they were strictly coded. They would repeat the same line repeatedly, no matter the situation.

Consider Skyrim, for instance. How many guards mentioned taking an arrow to the knee? Certainly more than could realistically be expected.

While there is a unique charm to those oddities, they hindered the player’s sense of immersion. Whether you had just saved a town from ruin or returned from a morally dubious theft, shopkeepers would interact with you in exactly the same manner. Conversations rarely developed based on your deeds or standing, which rendered the world feel stagnant.

As games have evolved into more intricate experiences, the demand for more vibrant, responsive characters has also increased. This is the juncture where AI has started to exert a notable influence.

AI-Powered NPCs

AI is now actively improving NPC behavior. One of the most apparent enhancements comes from advanced natural language processing (NLP). Developers are employing tools like Inworld AI and Convai to equip NPCs with distinct personalities and conversations that develop over time. Modded versions of Skyrim, experimental showcases like Neon Dream, and text-driven adventures such as AI Dungeon are already delving into this domain.

AI is also enabling NPCs to “learn” from player actions via machine learning. In Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, the Nemesis System—a type of pseudo-AI—permits adversaries to retain memories of prior encounters. If players defeat or spare an enemy, that character may later reappear with new dialogue, scars, or tactics. This fosters a more personal, unforgettable experience that feels lively and adaptive.

Additionally, AI enhances NPC authenticity through the simulation of emotions. NPCs are starting to exhibit more human-like emotional states—such as hunger, fatigue, fear, or joy—which influence their actions. The Sims 4 utilizes a similar system, where emotions impact choices and social interactions in surprisingly sophisticated manners. Edward Saatchi, founder of AI game studio Fable, encapsulated it well: “The future of NPCs lies in emergent behavior, not scripted lines.”

As the temperatures soar and summer vacation gets underway, Netflix is unveiling an exciting selection of new titles for July 2025—from The Sandman to WWE: Unreal.

Whether you’re relaxing at home after a beach trip or cooling down post-camping adventure, there’s plenty of content to indulge in. This month’s offerings include a mix of comedies, dramas, nostalgic sequels, and animated specials, featuring My Melody & Kuromi to honor the cherished characters’ anniversaries, alongside Happy Gilmore 2, which revisits the beloved golfer three decades later.

With such a wide array of options, we’ve compiled a list of the notable titles arriving on Netflix in July 2025 to simplify your binge-watching experience.

The Sandman

Drawing from the acclaimed DC comic series, The Sandman is back with its second season, picking up where Dream of the Endless works to salvage himself and his environment following the consequences of his previous actions. In pursuit of absolution and grace, Dream must confront his allies, adversaries, deities, and monsters, potentially risking everything he holds dear.

Trainwreck: The Real Project X

After a teenage girl unintentionally made her 16th birthday bash public instead of private on Facebook, a tumultuous party breaks out in the quaint Dutch town of Haren in September 2012. From dancing to clashes with law enforcement, Trainwreck: The Real Project X reflects on the outlandish escapades of countless youths creating chaos in Haren.

My Melody & Kuromi

Set in Mariland, commemorate My Melody’s 50th and Kuromi’s 20th anniversaries in the forthcoming series, My Melody & Kuromi. In this series, My Melody launches a cake shop, but odd occurrences arise after a meeting with a pink heart. Across the street sits an abandoned Japanese sweets shop managed by Kuromi, who is on a quest to uncover the secret behind My Melody’s cake. However, a bizarre event jeopardizes Mariland’s future as My Melody and Kuromi gear up for a sweets-making contest, overseen by the renowned pastry chef, Pistachio.

Happy Gilmore 2

Picking up from the classic 1996 movie, catch a glimpse into Happy’s life since clinching the Tour Championship three decades earlier. With Adam Sandler reprising his role in Happy Gilmore 2, Happy makes his return to the golf world amid comedic escapades with his son and supporting his daughter’s ballet education.

Scroll down for additional content set to arrive on Netflix in July 2025.

Coming To Netflix in July 2025 (TBD)

• Critical: Between Life and Death (Season 1, Netflix Original)
• Quarterback (Season 2, Netflix Original)

Coming to Netflix on July 1st

What’s Coming To Netflix on July 2 – 11

• July 2 – The Old Guard 2 (2025, Netflix Original)
• July 2 – Tour de France: Unchained (Season 3, Netflix Original)
• July 3 – Mr. Robot (Season 1 – 4)
• July 3 – The Sandman (Season 2 – Volume 1, Netflix Original)
• July 5 – The Summer Hikaru Died (Season 1, Netflix Original)
• July 8 – A Star is Born (2018)
• July 8 – Better Late Than Single (Season 1, Netflix Original)
• July 8 – Sullivan’s Crossing (Season 1 – 2)
• July 8 – Trainwreck: The Real Project X (Volume 1 – Episode 5, Netflix Original)
• July 9 – The Gringo Hunters </