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| (Image Source: THE MAGIC RAIN/HoYoverse) |
Global interactive entertainment brand HoYoverse recently announced that Zenless Zone Zero will officially launch on Xbox alongside its Version 2.0 update on June 2025. In addition to Xbox Series X|S, Zenless Zone Zero will also be available via Xbox Cloud Gaming, enabling Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members to play the game seamlessly across devices without downloads. With tailored optimizations made for the Xbox version of Zenless Zone Zero, players will receive a refined gaming experience.
Powered by the enhanced GPU performance of Xbox Series X|S, Zenless Zone Zero not only presents superior visual effects with support for the consoles' DirectX RayTracing and HDR, but also supports native 4K resolution at a stable 60 FPS performance. Meanwhile, with the exclusive "Quick Resume" feature on Xbox Series X|S, players can switch between multiple active games without lengthy loading times. In addition to visual and performance enhancements, Zenless Zone Zero will also introduce fine-tuned Xbox controller optimizations, incorporating customized vibration feedback to heighten the immersion and impact during combat. Moreover, Zenless Zone Zero will fully support cross-progression and flexible server selection on different platforms for Xbox players. With the game's launch on Xbox Cloud Gaming, Game Pass Ultimate members will be able to enjoy the game without having to download it or own an Xbox console.
Since Zenless Zone Zero's global debut in July 2024, the game has continuously refined its gameplay and mechanics based on player feedback. In Version 2.0, players will start a brand-new chapter of their story at a unique area called Waifei Peninsula, where urban life and Hollow exploration closely intertwine, bringing a more cohesive and immersive narrative experience. With the game expanding to Xbox, more players can immerse themselves in the game's dynamic urban fantasy world, experiencing both its vibrant city life and exhilarating combat. Zenless Zone Zero is currently available on PlayStation®5 Pro, PlayStation®5, PC, iOS, and Android. The game has been rated Teen by the ESRB and is also classified as PEGI 12. For more information, please visit the official website at https://zenless.hoyoverse.com/ or follow @ZZZ_EN on X (Twitter).
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FragPunk Console Launch Set For April 29, 2025 With Cross Progression
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| (Image Source: Enduins/Netease Games) |
FragPunk, the rule-breaking tactical 5v5 hero shooter renowned for its innovative Shard Card system, has officially announced its upcoming launch on Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5 on April 29, 2025 (UTC). To celebrate this announcement, a high-octane trailer focused on console gameplay has been released today, offering an exciting glimpse into the game's performance on consoles.
After its launch on PC in March, FragPunk has quickly captivated players with its groundbreaking Shard Card System, intriguing strategic gameplay and dazzling art style, achieving a peak of over 110,000 concurrent players on Steam. Now, the game is ready to bring its signature blend of strategy and mayhem to console gamers. The upcoming release has been meticulously optimized for smooth controller gameplay, featuring enhanced visuals and a cross-progression system, ensuring an unparalleled gaming experience. To make up for the delayed console launch, FragPunk is offering substantial rewards for console players. This includes rewards gained through exclusive time-limited events from the start of Season 1 until April 29th when the console version goes live. Players who purchased the Pioneer Bundle on console platforms will be eligible to claim additional gifts after the console launch. The console version will feature both crossplay and cross-progression with the PC version, enabling players to enjoy FragPunk together across platforms. More detailed information about these cross-platform features will be shared ahead of launch.
Meanwhile, to ensure balance and a smooth gameplay experience, the console version will include enhanced aim assist for controller players. This feature is designed to minimize the disparity between controller and keyboard/mouse input and provides an equally competitive environment for all players. With FragPunk's console version just around the corner, be sure to add the game to your wishlist on the Xbox Store and PlayStation Store. Also, don't forget to follow the game's social media channels for the latest updates and news.
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Everstone Studio Confirms "Where Winds Meet" Global Release In 2025 And 2nd Closed Beta Test On May
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| (Image Source: Netease Games) |
Everstone Studio is thrilled to confirm that its highly anticipated Wuxia open-world action-adventure RPG "Where Winds Meet" will have its global release in 2025. In preparation for this, Everstone will offer an exclusive opportunity for selective players on PC and PlayStation®5 to experience the game's immersive world and rich gameplay through a new round of closed beta test. Sign-up for the CBT begins today and players in the United States, Canada, Japan, and Korea can now join this exciting adventure through the official registration channel.
"Where Winds Meet" invites players to embark on an unforgettable journey set during the Chinese history's Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms Period. Assuming the role of a young sword master, players will uncover the mysteries of their own identity, experience thrilling adventures while weaving their own tales in a volatile historical era teeming with infinite possibilities. As the game invites players to uncover the mystique of Wuxia martial arts, players can craft and customize their characters and progression, utilizing a unique eastern combat system inspired by Wuxia, with a myriad of familiar and exotic weapons and skills to unlock and upgrade. They engage in direct close-quarters combat, wielding an arsenal of weapons such as Spear, Sword, Dual Blades, Glaive, Umbrella, and Fans, and unlock distinctive martial arts skills including Acupuncture Hitting, Lion's Roar, Merciful Picking, Tai Chi, and so on.
Additionally, the game will provide an immersive experience for players through an open world ripe with historical and cultural richness. With seamless landscapes and breathtaking vistas, players will venture through diverse regions, from the tranquil countryside surrounded by majestic wilderness, through mysterious caves and treacherous canyons to lively cities teeming with life and spectacle. From now until May 15th, players based in the United States, Canada, Japan and Korea with PC or PS5™ access are invited to sign up for the upcoming Closed Beta Test. The beta test will support multiple languages including English, Japanese, and Korean to ensure that a diverse range of players can participate and share valuable feedback. The beta test is set to officially begin on May 16, 2025.
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PGDX 2025, The Ultimate Gaming and Game Development Experience, Officially Announces Return
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| (Image Source: arkadymac.com/CBZN Perspective) |
The Philippine GameDev Expo (PGDX) is back and bigger than ever! Set to take place on July 25-27, 2025 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, PGDX 2025 promises an even more thrilling experience for gamers, developers, and industry professionals. As the premier event that bridges gaming, technology, and creativity, PGDX 2025 will showcase an expansive lineup of gaming exhibitors, industry leaders, eSports tournaments, hardware showcases, workshops, and interactive experiences that cater to both enthusiasts and professionals.
This year, the expo aims to level up the gaming scene in the Philippines, bringing global and local talent together for three days of innovation, learning, and unforgettable experiences. In an exciting development, Smart Communications Inc. (SMART) will take the stage as the main presenter for PGDX 2025, reinforcing its commitment to driving the future of gaming and eSports in the country. SMART’s involvement is set to bring groundbreaking activations, exclusive content, and next-level connectivity to the event, ensuring that attendees have the best possible gaming experience. Here's why you cannot miss PGDX 2025:
• Bigger And Better Expo Floor: Meet top game developers, studios, and publishers.
• eSports Tournaments: Watch intense competitions featuring the best teams and players.
• Workshops & Panels: Learn from industry experts on game development, publishing, and content creation.
• Exclusive Sneak Peeks: Get early access to upcoming game titles, tech innovations, and industry trends.
• Creator & Cosplay Showcases: Celebrate gaming culture with the biggest influencers and creative talents.
PGDX 2025 is more than just an event — it’s a movement that champions the growth of the gaming and game development community in the Philippines and beyond. Whether you're a passionate gamer, an aspiring developer, or a brand looking to connect with the gaming audience, this is the place to be. Stay tuned for more announcements, exhibitor reveals, and exclusive updates leading up to the biggest Philippine GameDev Expo yet.
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VALOFE Kicks Off Official Open Beta Test For S4 League
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| (Image Source: VALOFE) |
VALOFE is pleased to unveil the full launch details for the long-awaited return of S4 League, the iconic cyber-action third-person shooter, recently kicking off with the Official Open Beta Test (OBT), welcoming players around the globe into the futuristic world of NetSphere. The global service will support seven languages, including English, Korean, Japanese, German, French, Spanish, and Turkish, ensuring an inclusive experience for fans worldwide.
Following the conclusion of the pre-registration campaign last April 11, 2025, VALOFE immediately launched early client download access to allow players to install the game in advance and prepare for launch day. Pre-registration interest exceeded expectations with over 15,000 players signing up. The final confirmed total will be released soon. In celebration of its OBT launch, VALOFE has prepared the following exclusive in-game content and events:
• Pre-Order Rewards: Players who participated in the pre-registration campaign will receive exclusive rewards, including the Dark Baron Costume and the Jin Ophelia Costume Set, available immediately upon OBT launch.
• Opening Events: A series of special events will be held including a Ranking Event in the popular Touchdown Mode where players will compete for exclusive rewards based on their performance and ranking.
• Community And GM Events: Beyond in-game competitions, VALOFE will host various interactive GM-led events such as GM vs GM matches, fan art contests, and more. These activities aim to strengthen community engagement and encourage creative participation.
• Developer Roadmap: Coinciding with the OBT launch, VALOFE will release a developer roadmap, offering a transparent look at upcoming content, system improvements, and monthly update plans designed to evolve the S4 League experience.
VALOFE continues to prioritize open communication with its player base. Notable community activities include the official VFUN Community Lounge where players can receive updates and answers directly from the development and operations teams in regular Q&A sessions. VALOFE is excited to reintroduce S4 League to a global audience and invites both returning veterans and new players to join the cyber battleground. With fresh updates, competitive events, and a revitalized commitment to player feedback, S4 League is ready to define the next era of multiplayer online shooters.
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Netmarble Crowns Grand Champion Of First Global Competition For Solo Leveling: ARISE
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| (Image Source: Netmarble) |
Netmarble, a leading developer and publisher of high-quality mobile games, announced that it has successfully concluded the 2025 Solo Leveling: ARISE CHAMPIONSHIP (SLC 2025), the first official global competition for Solo Leveling: ARISE. SLC 2025 was held last April 12, 2025 at IVEX Studio in Korea where the finalists battled it out in the popular mode “Battlefield Of Time” for the coveted title of “First Global Champion”. Fans were bursting with excitement over the tournament as tickets for the offline event sold out in under a minute and the live broadcast drew thousands of viewers worldwide.
A total of 16 finalists - eight from the International League and eight from the Asia League - flew in from around the world, including players from Asia, Europe, North America, and South America, to compete in the final rounds held in Korea. After several intense bouts, the four top contenders advanced to the final match and OhReung emerged as the ultimate champion, clearing four battlefields in just 2 minutes and 57 seconds. “I’m deeply honored to share this shining moment of becoming a world champion with everyone. As a gesture of support, I will be donating half of my prize money to aid those affected by the recent wildfires in Korea,” said OhReung, expressing excitement at claiming the global title. As the grand champion of the SLC 2025, OhReung received a KRW10M (10 million Korean Won) cash prize and an LG gram Pro 360 Laptop. The runner-up and third-place finalists were awarded KRW7M (7 million Korean Won) and KRW3M (3 million Korean Won), respectively, along with an LG UltraGearTM Gaming Monitor.
Beyond the fierce competition itself, the event featured a variety of fan-focused activities including live giveaways and exclusive game redemption codes shared during the livestream. For a full recap of the grand finals, please visit the official Solo Leveling: ARISE forum. Solo Leveling: ARISE is an action game adaptation of the hit webtoon, Solo Leveling. Taking on the role of Jinwoo, players can experience his journey through the beloved webtoon tale firsthand, leveling up, taking on dynamic battles, and creating their own combat styles by selecting various combinations of skills and weapons. Not only can players team up with hunters from the webtoon, they can summon their own “Army Of Shadows” with the iconic phrase: “Arise”.
