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| (Image Source: TriplePoint PR/Second Dinner) |
Second Dinner, the independent video game developer behind the hit mobile card game MARVEL SNAP, recently announced the Golden Gauntlet World Championship Series, a new community-first tournament initiative launching on August 9, 2025. Built for players of all levels and playstyles, the Golden Gauntlet Series aims to celebrate the creativity, competitiveness, and passion of the SNAP community through a fully open, online, and free-to-enter format. The series will unfold across three regional “Open Qualifier” tournaments, culminating in a global Golden Gauntlet Worlds event on November 8, 2025. Whether you're a content creator, casual competitor, or someone who just loves brewing off-meta decks, the Golden Gauntlet offers a welcoming stage to test your skills and connect with the broader community. Anyone can tune in and follow the action live on MARVEL SNAP’s official Twitch and YouTube channels where matches will be streamed throughout the series.
“This is our chance to empower our community and give back to the fans and creators that have supported us for years. The tournament series is about giving players the space and spotlight to celebrate the game they love. From day one, MARVEL SNAP has been shaped by its players, and the Golden Gauntlet is our way of supporting and amplifying that passion. Huge shoutout to GAME ON EVENTS for helping us host this event and to all the incredible community members who’ve helped bring this to life — this series wouldn’t exist without their dedication, creativity, and love for the game,” said Second Dinner Senior Vice President of Marketing Aland Failde. “Our goal with this series is to bring the community together to celebrate MARVEL SNAP’s competitive scene while showcasing the fast, high-stakes nature of its matches. It’s been exciting to watch tournaments grow from grassroots events to the Golden Gauntlet World Championship Series. Whether you’ve been playing for two months or two years, we’re thrilled to host a tournament that honors MARVEL SNAP’s amazing community,” said GAME ON EVENTS Co-Founder Matthew R., known online as ItsGuestGaming.
Registration for Golden Gauntlet Open 1, slated to kick off on August 9, 2025, opens on July 31, 2025 to teams across Asia Pacific and Western US while details for Golden Gauntlet Open 2 on September, for teams in the Americas, and 3 on October, for teams in Eastern US and Europe, will be revealed soon via Discord. The Golden Gauntlet World Championship Series is the next step in enabling community play for MARVEL SNAP — designed to be open, exciting, and unforgettable. Whether you’re new or a longtime player, we hope you’ll join us in making this something special together. For more information, visit https://discord.com/invite/marvelsnap.
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PGDX 2025 Builds Hype With New Highlights
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| (Image Source: Back2Gaming/CBZN Perspective) |
The Philippine GameDev Expo (PGDX) 2025, slated to take place at SMX Convention Center Manila on July 25-27, 2025, is powering through with back-to-back updates as the event inches closer to launch. From nostalgic throwbacks to fresh indie talent, PGDX continues to showcase the full spectrum of the local gaming ecosystem. Nostalgia takes center stage as Tito Gaming officially opens registration for its retro tournament lineup at PGDX 2025. Aimed at seasoned gamers and arcade-era enthusiasts, the tournament features beloved classics including Counter-Strike 1.3, Marvel vs. Capcom 2, and Tetris. Open to all proud TITO AND TITA GAMERS, the series is a celebration of the golden era of gaming — where bragging rights were earned in internet cafés and arcade halls. Whether you're looking to relive old rivalries or just show the younger generation how it's done, this is your chance to join the action. Sign up now and represent the retro legends at http://bit.ly/PGDX2025TITOGAMINGREG.
PGDX’s signature indie showcase, Indie Game Stars, has officially unveiled its sixth batch of featured local developers — a dynamic lineup of rising Filipino talent pushing the boundaries of creativity, design, and gameplay. From narrative-driven adventures to innovative mechanics, these homegrown titles reflect the evolving landscape of the Philippine indie game scene. In line with the announcement, PGDX has also launched the Indie Game Stars People’s Choice where fans and players can vote for their favorite featured game. The developer with the most votes will take home a ₱100,000 cash prize, making this not just a celebration of creativity, but a meaningful opportunity to support the future of Filipino game development. Through Indie Game Stars, PGDX continues to champion Filipino-made games on the global stage — empowering developers, amplifying new voices, and fueling the future of the country’s creative tech industry. On the other hand, the PGDX community stays connected through its ongoing weekly livestream series, delivering fresh content every week on the official PGDX Facebook page. Each episode dives into the heart of geek and gaming culture, featuring a rotating lineup of guests and topics that span cosplay, game development, pop culture, and more.
From cosplay creators and indie devs, to content creators, collectors, and community icons, the streams offer something for every kind of fan. Regular segments include Tito & Tita Gaming featuring GeekPop fight club, behind-the-scenes looks at Indie Game Stars, exclusive developer interviews, and even sneak peeks at what’s in store for PGDX 2025. With new topics and personalities spotlighted each week, the PGDX livestream series continues to fuel excitement and keep fans engaged in the lead-up to the main event. The excitement around PGDX 2025 is only getting stronger. From spotlighting the next wave of indie talent, to bringing back retro showdowns through Tito Gaming, and keeping the community plugged in with weekly livestreams — PGDX isn’t just an event, it’s a movement. And this is just the beginning. Bigger reveals, bolder experiences, and more ways to celebrate Filipino creativity are on the way.
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Red Dunes Games And ACQUIRE Corporation Announce Multi-Year Collaboration To Create New Global IPs
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| (Image Source: Game Fix Show/ACQUIRE Corporation/Red Dunes Games) |
Red Dunes Games, the UAE-based game publisher and developer, is proud to announce a landmark multi-year collaboration with ACQUIRE Corporation, one of Japan’s most prestigious game studios. The two companies will co-develop a slate of original IPs that blend world-class Japanese craftsmanship with bold, global creative vision. This is the first UAE–Japan collaboration of its kind in premium game development, and marks a new chapter in the evolving landscape of international games publishing.
“ACQUIRE is a legendary studio with a deep creative legacy, and we are honored to work with them to build the next wave of original games. This partnership is a reflection of our belief that the future of gaming lies in global collaboration where stories cross borders, and innovation knows no region,” said Red Dunes Games CEO and Creative Director Sultan Darmaki. ACQUIRE, the Tokyo-based studio behind genre-defining titles such as Tenchu, Way of the Samurai, and Akiba’s Trip, has long been a pillar of Japanese game development. This partnership signals a bold step toward international co-productions that respect tradition while pushing towards new horizons. “As ACQUIRE, a studio that has long valued originality from Japan in game development, we are thrilled to have found a wonderful partner in Red Dunes Games and embark on a bold new global challenge together. We’ve always believed in the power of originality. Now, with Red Dunes, we’re building something truly international,” said ACQUIRE CEO Takuma Endo.
The first wave of projects, codenamed Project Tremor, Project Umbra, and Project Shadowcar, are already in development. Each title explores a distinct genre and vision: from city-shaking kaiju battles, to dark fantasy hunts, to a shadowy espionage thriller. All games will launch on PC and major consoles, with global releases, multilingual support, and world premieres planned at events such as Tokyo Game Show. This collaboration is a cornerstone in Red Dunes Games’ long-term publishing and co-development vision which combines original game creation with a global outlook, industry partnerships, and a commitment to diverse storytelling.
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Take Flight And Relive The Golden Age Of Animation With Acecraft, Now Open For Global Pre-Registration
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| (Image Source: MOONTON Games) |
Attention all pilots! Get ready to take flight with MOONTON Games' brand new mobile Shoot'em Up game, Acecraft, now open globally for pre-registration. Launching globally on August 28, Acecraft is a two-player vertical scroller that combines nostalgic cartoon visuals with fast-paced combat and strategic co-op gameplay. Acecraft invites players into the vibrant skies of Cloudia, where customizable pilots, co-op battles, and roguelike chaos collide in an exhilarating airborne journey. Take flight as an adorable pilot, command your personal aircraft, and face off against the Nightmare Legion to recover the stolen Key of Destiny.
The mobile scroller drops players into the skies of Cloudia, a floating world filled with danger, mystery, and epic boss battles. Players can choose from eight different Ace Pilots, each with unique combat skills and customizable Wingmen, to embark on fantastical adventures. Whether flying solo or teaming up with a friend, every mission brings a new challenge. At the heart of Acecraft is its bullet absorption system. Every Ace Pilot will need to master the art of dodging enemy attacks and absorbing pink projectiles from dense barrages, turning them into powerful counterattacks. Players can also experiment with a vast array of roguelike skills to create spectacular bullet combinations. With endless synergies to discover, no two runs ever play the same. Ride the Time Train through a nostalgic world filled with danger where you will face off against whimsical yet deadly bosses. Defeat each one to expand your personal victory archive. As you explore Cloudia, you will face shifting terrains and evolving enemy forces. Every stage brings new challenges, pushing you to adapt your strategy and uncover the secrets of this floating world.
Take to the skies and explore the world of Cloudia, brought to life with retro rubber hose animation! Players who pre-register will unlock exclusive in-game rewards based on global registration milestones, including recruit tickets, gold, collectible cards, and the powerful Sub-zero Protective Jacket. These rewards will be distributed via in-game mail after the launch. Pre-registration is now available via the App Store, Google Play, and the game's official website. Acecraft is a love letter to classic arcade shooters with a fresh twist. Whether you are a fan of roguelikes, bullet hells, or co-op action games, this is one adventure you won't want to miss. Master one-finger controls in this thrilling Shoot'em Up, discover diverse Clockwork Islands, and challenge hundreds of bosses! Pre-register now and join the adventure!
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Ragnarok M: Classic Global Server Pre-Registration Now Open — Closed Beta Test Coming Soon
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| (Image Source: LapakGaming.com/Gravity Interactive) |
The global gaming community can now officially pre-register for Ragnarok M: Classic Global on Google Play as developer Gravity Interactive prepares for the Closed Beta Test (CBT) launch of its most community-friendly Ragnarok mobile title yet. Following years of requests from fans in North America and Europe, the Global Server marks the first time Ragnarok M: Classic will be available beyond Southeast Asia — offering lower latency, greater accessibility, and a truly fair and grind-free experience. At its core, Ragnarok M: Classic Global is built on player-first principles:
• No Daily/Weekly Paid Packs – No gacha. No microtransaction clutter. The entire game is accessible without payment barriers.
• Free Premium & Offline Rewards – Enjoy a monthly premium pass at no cost, with features like EXP boosts, drop rate increases, and offline battle systems.
• 100% Gear Enhancement Success – No more gambling away your Zeny. All gear can be enhanced to +15 with guaranteed success.
• Balanced Job System – Choose from six core classes, all upgradeable to Tier 3. Once unlocked, players can freely switch between jobs.
• Relaxed, Player-Friendly Design – Less grind, no pressure. Just gameplay.
Unlike other mobile RPGs, Ragnarok M: Classic Global introduces a revolutionary, Zeny-only economy. There are no paid gachas, no exclusive top-up items, and no hidden monetization traps. Every item in the game — from powerful gear to rare MVP cards — can be obtained through gameplay and traded freely with other players. This system ensures a fair and transparent experience where progression is driven by skill, effort, and adventure — not spending. Before its global launch, Ragnarok M: Classic has already seen tremendous success across Asia where it quickly built a loyal and active player base. With over 3 million registered players, the game’s fair-play philosophy and nostalgic design have resonated deeply with fans of the original Ragnarok Online. The upcoming global release aims to bring this proven experience to a wider audience — now with full support for players in North America and Europe.
Whether you're a veteran of Prontera or a newcomer ready to join the hunt, Ragnarok M: Classic Global invites all adventurers to experience the world of Rune Midgard as it was meant to be: free, fair, and full of wonder. Your journey begins now by pre-registering on Google Play and the Apple App Store. For more information and updates on Ragnarok M: Classic Global, visit the game's official website at classicglobal.ragnaroketernallove.com, @RagnarokMClassic on Facebook, @ragnarokmobileclassic on YouTube, @ragnarokmobile_classic on TikTok and the ROMC Official Discord page.
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KRAFTON And EF Games Launch Rivals Hover League Demo On Steam
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| (Image Source: KRAFTON Inc.) |
KRAFTON Inc. and Madrid, Spain-based developer EF Games recently announced that the first public demo for Rivals Hover League will be available on Steam from July 25 at 12:00 midnight (PT) until July 27 at 11:59 pm (PT). The high-speed vehicular arena combat game introduces players to its blend of fast-paced hover driving, tactical combat, and multiplayer teamplay. Players can try three competitive multiplayer modes: Rivals Mode, Core Battle, and Team Deathmatch across a curated set of arena maps. Seven distinct hover vehicles will also be available for players to test out, each designed for specific combat roles and equipped with unique abilities and ultimates. Participation will also grant access to exclusive rewards that become available upon full release. Key game features featured in the demo include:
• Seven Hover Vehicles: Each vehicle offers a different playstyle, from aggressive assault to tactical support, allowing players to choose the vehicle that best suits their approach.
• Progression And Unlockables: Players can complete matches and daily missions to level up and unlock additional vehicles and cosmetic items during the demo period.
• 4v4 PvP With Matchmaking: Quick matchmaking supports both solo and group queues, placing combatants into fast-paced, team-based skirmishes.
The demo is a limited time opportunity to explore the game’s core experience. While Rivals Hover League is still in development, this phase represents a key step forward, with community feedback helping to shape the final release. Demo data, including progression, levels, and unlocks, will not carry over into the final game. Rivals Hover League can be wish listed now on Steam to stay informed about upcoming playtests and launch details. Additional information is available on X and Discord.
