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| (Image Source: Inven Global/Honor Of Kings eSports) |
The 2025 King Pro League (KPL) Grand Finals concluded spectacularly at Beijing’s iconic National Stadium (the Bird’s Nest) as Chengdu All Gamers (AG) emerged victorious to claim the championship title and 20 million RMB (2.8 million USD) in prize money with the total prize pool 70 million RMB (9.8 million USD). This year’s KPL Grand Finals elevated mobile eSports to unprecedented heights. For the first time in history, a mobile eSports tournament was held inside the Bird’s Nest, welcoming a live audience of 62,196 fans which attempted the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ Title for the Largest Attendance for an eSports Match. Fans were treated to a top-tier stage production, featuring a massive 7,000㎡ panoramic LED setup and a 128-meter-long main stage, making it the largest and most ambitious eSports tournament in China to date.
The KPL Grand Finals Championship Match saw two powerhouses collide — AG, fresh off back-to-back victories in the 2025 Spring and Summer seasons, and ten-time champions Wolves eSports. The Grand Finals ignited the crowd with excitement, culminating in a hard-fought 4–2 victory as YiNuo delivered a stellar performance to claim the FMVP title. A BO7 Global Ban & Pick + Ultimate Battleformat was in play, resulting in thrilling competition from start to finish. As the winning team, YiNuo from AG was awarded an FMVP exclusive skin, a champion team signature skin, an in-game exclusive team avatar frame, and a limited-time team voice line, cementing themselves in Honor Of Kings history. The KPL is the eSports event with highest viewership in the world, uniting hundreds of millions of young fans with 250 million unique viewers on KPL in 2025. With 18 city-based clubs deeply rooted in local culture, KPL continues to lead mobile esports in scale, engagement, and influence. The Honor Of Kings eSports ecosystem is a dynamic, multi-tiered global structure that connects players and organisations across every level of competition from grassroots to professional.
On the other hand, Honor Of Kings picked up the Trailblazer Award at the 2025 Green Game Jam Awards held last November 6, 2025 in a special awarding ceremony in London, UK. The award recognizes the creativity in design and the judges were impressed by the multi-phase nature of this project and the boldness of its scope. Sustainability was deeply integral to the core narrative, helping players really feel the role of nature and natural ecosystems. The Trailblazer Award is part of the Green Game Jam Awards 2025 by Playing For The Planet, an initiative facilitated by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Fans can catch all the action in Honor of Kings eSports (@HOKEsports) live and on-demand on the Twitch.tv, Facebook, official website, YouTube channel and TikTok.
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Where Winds Meet Showcases New Gameplay Features In Special Preview Showcase
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| (Image Source: Enduins/Everstone Studio) |
EverStone Studio revealed brand-new features and gameplay recently during a digital preview event for the highly anticipated open-world Wuxia action-adventure RPG Where Winds Meet, now available globally on PC and PlayStation 5. During the event, the studio also celebrated the game reaching a remarkable 10 million pre-registrations. During the special preview event, the studio walked viewers through the upcoming features and gameplay that await them upon diving into the game.
The preview kicked off with an overview of how players begin their journey in Qinghe, it’s descried tranquil region of open plains and hidden mysteries, before venturing into Kaifeng, a vibrant ancient city teeming with over 10,000 NPCs, each with unique motivations and stories. With more than 1,200 cultural artefacts to uncover, exploration becomes a journey through living heritage. The studio gave an update on what players can expect from the coin Where Winds Meet where it was descried to be fast flexible and deeply customisable. Players can master traditional weapons like swords and spears, or experiment with creative and romantic weapons adapted from Wuxia fantasy such as umbrellas and fans. The game features 12 Martial Arts sets and 23 mystical techniques, choreographed by Stephen Tung Wai, four-time Hong Kong Film Award winner for Best Action Choreography. The narrative unfolds through both overt and hidden storylines, encouraging players to piece together clues from the environment, NPCs, and artefacts to uncover a deeper conspiracy tied to the imperial court. It was announced during the stream that all in-game content is completely free with no restrictions on game modes or progression — Where Winds Meet proudly offers a no pay-to-win experience. As EverStone Studio shared during the global launch preview, “All the newly-released gameplay will be completely free to play.” Players can enjoy every mode to their heart’s content, with the freedom to explore, fight, or simply live as a wanderer in a world shaped by love, justice, and limitless possibility.
Post-launch, EverStone Studio is slated to introduce themed seasonal updates, beginning with the first season “Blade Out” which will expand the core narrative and introduce new gameplay experiences. Some seasons will delve deeper into the main storyline while others will bring fresh game modes and limited-time events — each reinforcing the game’s identity as the first true Wuxia open-world. The livestream closed off with a special thank you with EverStone Studio offering a welcome gift to all players at launch, with even more surprises waiting to be discovered in-game, and a shareable $2,000 vacation fund for ten lucky players who have pre-registered. For more on Where Winds Meet, check out the special preview showcase here.
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Pokémon Announced As Andrew Yoon Legend Award Recipient For 15th Annual New York Game Awards
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| (Image Source: GoNintendo/New York Videogame Critics Circle) |
The New York Videogame Critics Circle (NYVGCC) announced a rare addition to its historical Andrew Yoon Legend Award Winners slate with Pokémon named as the 15th Recipient of the prestigious award. The Pokémon Company will take center stage to accept the award on behalf of the franchise, which celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2026, at the New York Game Awards on January 18, 2026 at the SVA Center in Manhattan. Pokémon is an iconic staple of global popular culture, breaking through to video game and mainstream audiences in the mid-to-late 90s with a unique combination of collectibility, strong and approachable RPG gameplay and unparalleled character design. With $12B (12 billion dollars) in global retail sales in 2024 including over 489 million game copies sold since 1996, Pokémon is considered one of the world’s highest-grossing media franchises. Its legend only grows stronger as new generations are drawn to new video games, animated series, movies, The Pokémon Trading Card game, mobile apps and more from The Pokémon Company.
“How do you articulate the impact of a cultural phenomenon like Pokémon? ‘Legend’ is the only word that comes to mind. For 30 years, the franchise has grown to become the most recognizable game series in the world and is beloved for its unique monster designs that have compelled players young and old to catch ‘em all. It is a tremendous honor to present the company with the Andrew Yoon Legend Award at our 15th celebration of the New York Game Awards,” said NYVGCC Founder and President Harold Goldberg. “The Pokémon Company is without peer, responsible for creating a massive juggernaut of a franchise that has become a landmark title in gaming’s storied history. I saw firsthand the love and care that went into each Pokémon game I was part of, and how much each new game resonated deeply with the fans. Now, to be there for Pokémon, when it’s being recognized as this year’s winner of the Andrew Yoon Legend Award, it’s a full circle moment that I am ecstatic to be a part of!” said NYVGCC Board Member and former Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aimé. In an exciting addition to this news, two fan-favorite Pokémon will be in attendance for the festivities, courtesy of The Pokémon Company. A limited number of photo opportunities with these iconic brand mascots will be available; more information will be shared soon. Fans should secure their tickets to the 15th Annual New York Game Awards before they’re sold out.
The New York Videogame Critics Circle presents the Andrew Yoon Legend Award, named after the NYVGCC founding member, to recognize industry icons and organizations that exhibited a significant, sustained body of work demonstrating exceptional artistic achievement and innovation. Past recipients of the award include Sam Lake, Neil Druckmann, Reggie Fils-Aimé, Phil Spencer, Tim Schafer, Jerry Lawson, Jade Raymond, Richard Garriott, Todd Howard, Ralph Baer and Hideo Kojima. Ahead of the 2026 New York Game Awards is the newly added GG Fest on January 17, 2026 featuring panel discussions from beloved game creators and an exclusive Supergiant Games: Unplugged concert from Darren Korb and Ashley Barrett. Tickets for the GG Fest and NY Game Awards are available to purchase through Eventbrite for $80 each or combined in a bundle package for $140 with preferred seating at the NY Game Awards. For more information on the NY Game Awards and other NYVGCC programs, please visit the organization's official website at https://nygamecritics.com/.
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VALORANT™ Collaborates With KATSEYE For The 2025 Game Changers Championship Anthem
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| (Image Source: Team PCheng/Riot Games) |
Riot Games recently unveiled the VALORANT Game Changers Championship 2025 music video titled “GO OFF” featuring a reimagined version of the hit track “M.I.A.” by global pop group KATSEYE. “M.I.A. (VALORANT Game Changers Version)”, accompanied by a cinematic music video, is available now across all streaming platforms. Music continues to play a vital role in shaping the VALORANT experience, and this year’s VALORANT Game Changers Championship anthem is a reflection of that dedication. The collaboration with KATSEYE celebrates the competitive spirit and energy that define VALORANT Game Changers.
“When Riot asked us to reimagine M.I.A for Game Changers, as a gamer I was like YES! That song has always been about confidence and showing up as your best self, and that message aligns so much with what Game Changers stands for. We wanted this version to celebrate every player who’s out there pushing limits and owning their power,” says KATSEYE's Megan. “GO OFF” tells the story of determination and perseverance, told through the experiences of women in and around VALORANT. The video celebrates connections formed around Game Changers, reflecting a community that stands together and lifts each other up when it matters most. Riot Games Lead Music Supervisor Jonny Altepeter shares, “Working with KATSEYE to give “M.I.A” a Game Changers twist has been an incredible experience. Their energy and artistry perfectly match the spirit of VALORANT, and Megan’s connection as a player made the collaboration feel that much more authentic. It’s inspiring to see artists who genuinely connect with our game come together to celebrate Game Changers, a program that continues to empower and elevate our community.”
The VALORANT Game Changers Championship 2025 finals will take place on November 28-30, 2025 at Riot’s very own League of Legends (LoL) Park in Seoul, South Korea. Since the program’s inception in 2021, VCT Game Changers has created new opportunities and exposure for women within VALORANT eSports. Previous events were held in Berlin and São Paulo with past anthems including “All Eyes On Me” featuring Jean Deaux and Whipped Cream, “VALORANT, LOUDER” with an original score by Karel Psota and “THE DRIVE” featuring PREDATOR by YONAKA.
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The Game Awards Comes To Prime Video
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| (Image Source: The Game Awards) |
The Game Awards recently announced that, for the first time ever, The Game Awards will stream live on Prime Video globally where the service is available included at no additional cost with a Prime membership, alongside the show’s annual broadcast on Twitch which has streamed the program since its debut in 2014, to celebrate creative and technical excellence in video games.
The Game Awards 2025 airs live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, California, U.S.A. on December 11, 2025 at 8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT (December 12, 2025 at 9:00 am PHT/HKT/SGT) and will feature world premieres, major new game announcements, and musical performances alongside awards honoring the year’s best games and creators. Stars from the Amazon MGM Studios-produced series Fallout will also be present during the event. “We’re thrilled to bring our global celebration of video games to even more audiences with the addition of Prime Video. With the upcoming launch of Fallout Season 2 and an exciting slate of game adaptations, Prime Video is a natural home for our show. We’re honored to have Amazon stand alongside so many other entertainment technology companies as partners to our show,” said The Game Awards Creator and CEO Geoff Keighley.
Meanwhile, The Game Awards will be livestreamed on Twitch worldwide in 2K (1440p) for the first time, allowing thousands of creators to re-broadcast the show live to their communities. Last year, The Game Awards was co-streamed by more than 11,000 creators. The Game Awards 2025 will include Twitch Drops, rewarding Twitch viewers who watch 30 minutes or more with exclusive in-game content and a limited-edition TGA chat badge. Details on this year’s Drops campaign will be revealed closer to the event. On the other hand, As the official retailer, Amazon will relaunch its dedicated shop featuring special deals and offers on games, hardware, and accessories from now until December 31, 2025. During the live broadcast, viewers can expect Prime-exclusive, limited-time deals across nominated games, new releases, hardware and more, revealed in real time — available only at amazon.com/thegameawards and running for up to 24 hours while supplies last.
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JAKKS Pacific And SEGA Of America Renew Global Toy Partnership For Sonic The Hedgehog™ Merchandise
| (Image Source: GlobeNewswire/JAKKS Pacific Inc.) |
JAKKS Pacific Inc. recently announced its renewed partnership with SEGA of America Inc. (SEGA®) for the core the Sonic The Hedgehog Collection, maintaining JAKKS as the franchise’s lead global toy partner. JAKKS will continue to design, manufacture, market, and sell Sonic The Hedgehog branded toy product lines worldwide. This multi-year partnership extends until 2029, allowing JAKKs to continue to design and produce action figures, playsets, vehicles, plush, collectibles, and other categories.
The JAKKS line of Sonic The Hedgehog merchandise has seen unprecedented success since its introduction in 2019 with product launches spanning across big box retailers in-store and online. The evergreen toys like the 4-inch Articulate Figures assortment and the Sonic Speed RC have captured the attention of fans young and old, offering a fresh take on how to interact with the brand. With the renewed partnership, fans will be introduced to new, action-packed ways to relive the excitement of this legendary video game. “Our Sonic The Hedgehog line continues to perform strongly at retail, and has consistently connected with fans worldwide throughout our partnership with SEGA over the last 6 years. From action figures to playsets and plush, the brand has seen steady growth since the beginning of our collaboration and we look forward to building on that momentum with exciting new offerings well into the future, which we can’t wait to share with the fans,” said JAKKS Pacific Senior Vice President of Licensing Virginia Reneau.
“JAKKS Pacific has continued to play a key role in translating SEGA’s legacy into standout, high-quality merchandise that resonates with fans across all generations. As we look ahead to this fall and beyond, the expansion of our partnership will deliver a new wave of products that celebrate the rich history of the brand while embracing an exciting future,” said SEGA of America Vice President of Licensing and Partnerships Alex Gomez. JAKKS Pacific Inc. is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of toys and consumer products sold throughout the world with its headquarters in Santa Monica, California, U.S.A., managing a broad portfolio of licensed and owned I.P. brands and products available online or in retail stores across the globe which include best sellers such as Sonic The Hedgehog action figures, plush and playsets.
