Gaming Updates : Apple Arcade adds NFL Retro Bowl ’26 and Jeopardy! Daily

Source : 

https://www.cultofmac.com/news/apple-arcade-adds-nfl-retro-bowl-26

ChatGPT : 

Apple Arcade is adding major titles in September, including the exclusive NFL Retro Bowl ’26 and Jeopardy! Daily on Sept 4. NFL Retro Bowl ’26 offers official NFL rosters, retro graphics, and a live Championship Leaderboard tied to the real 2025 season. Jeopardy! Daily delivers authentic clues, daily boards, tournaments, and global leaderboards. On Sept 18, Hello Kitty Island Adventure adds Wheatflour Wonderland with new quests and characters. Other additions include My Talking Tom Friends+, plus big updates to Disney Dreamlight Valley and Mini Motorways. The service costs $6.99/month with 200+ ad-free games.

Opinion : 

New games are not exciting? 😏

Updates are nice.

Still subscribed to the service. My children like it.

Gaming Updates : Why I Want More Mobile Games to Come to Consoles

Source : 

https://www.howtogeek.com/why-i-want-more-mobile-games-to-come-to-consoles/

ChatGPT : 

The article argues that many high-quality mobile games deserve console ports to improve accessibility, preservation, and player experience. While some console games get mobile adaptations, the reverse is rare, leaving many mobile titles trapped on app stores until they're delisted or shut down. Touch controls, hardware limitations, and storage issues make complex mobile games less enjoyable than on consoles with controllers and large screens. Examples like Genshin Impact, Fantasian: Neo Dimension, and Final Fantasy XV: Pocket Edition show that console ports can expand audiences and save games from disappearing. The author urges developers to overcome the stigma against mobile games and bring more of them to consoles.

Opinion : 

Console games are so much pricier than mobile games.

Agree with article that mobile games cannot survive without porting to consoles though.

Gaming Updates : iOS 26: Here's What You Can Do With Apple's New Games Ap

Source : 

https://www.macrumors.com/guide/ios-26-games-app/

ChatGPT : 

Apple’s new Games app in iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe expands the gaming experience by turning the Games tab in the App Store into a full-featured app. Key features include:

- Home Tab: Personalized game suggestions, “Continue Playing,” friend activities, and curated lists like top played games and new releases.

- Events: Showcases limited-time gameplay events and updates.

- Apple Arcade Tab: Dedicated section promoting the $6.99/month Apple Arcade subscription with recommendations.

- Library Tab: Unified library of all games played across devices, showing achievements and quick access to content.

- Play Together Tab: Social hub for multiplayer games, friend lists, and a new Challenges feature for asynchronous competitive gameplay.

- Game Center Integration: More visible with achievements, friend invites, and real-time leaderboards.

- Game Mode: Overlay in Control Center offering quick access to leaderboards, invites, and game settings without leaving the game.

- Multiplayer: Easy invites with Party Codes and links, requiring all players to be on iOS 26+.

- Search & Profile: Improved game discovery and social interaction tools.

The app enhances social gaming on Apple devices but does not support cross-platform play with Android or other systems.

Opinion : 

I think it's a good time for a refreshed gaming app.

Missed the Game Center app days.

Gaming Updates : 8BitDo’s Pro 3 is a super customizable controller that’s too limited on Switch 2

Source : 

https://www.theverge.com/reviews/755307/8bitdo-pro-3-controller-review-pc-nintendo-switch-2

ChatGPT : 

The 8BitDo Pro 3 ($69.99) is a highly customizable, comfortable controller with swappable face buttons, joystick caps, adjustable triggers, macro buttons, and improved TMR joysticks and Hall effect triggers. It works across many platforms via Bluetooth or 2.4GHz and includes a charging dock. While excellent for PC and multi-platform use, it’s limited on Switch 2—its rumble feels imprecise, and it can’t wake the console. It’s a worthwhile upgrade from the Pro 2 for most users, but Switch 2 players may prefer the official Pro controller.

Opinion : 

I've 3 x 8BitDo Pro 2 controllers. They work well with my iMac, Macbook and iPads.

This brand is good and can be made with purchases via Shopee, Lazada.

LifeStyle Updates : ‘You offer her S$70M or S$700M also, she still won’t sell her father’s land!’ — S’poreans say about 70+ y/o woman who stands her ground for SG’s last kampung

Source : 

https://theindependent.sg/you-offer-her-s70m-or-s700m-also-she-still-wont-sell-her-fathers-land-sporeans-say-about-70-y-o-woman-who-stands-her-ground-for-sgs-last-kampung/

ChatGPT : 

72-year-old Mdm Sng Mui Hong, owner of Singapore’s last kampung in Lorong Buangkok, has rejected S$70M offers from developers, staying true to a promise made to her father to preserve the land for future generations. Despite no children, modest savings, and aging infrastructure, she continues renting homes at S$6.50–S$30/month to about 20 families.

Her quiet defiance and simple lifestyle have earned viral admiration. To her, peace, legacy, and dignity matter more than millions. Her nieces and nephews are committed to keeping the kampung intact after she’s gone.

Opinion : 

Strong promise kept by Mdm Sng 👍

I'm not sure on the ask of nieces and nephews to continue the kampung.

Wouldn't it be prudent to let it go to benefit even more people? The extended family could use the money for the betterment of their lives too.

Ultimately, it's their family's choice and in the age of capitalism, it's nice to see family values being emphasized over monetary gains.

Gaming Updates : Plants vs Zombies: Replanted Is a New 'Anchor for the Franchise,' PopCap Says, and a Chance to Reacknowledge the Series' Roots

Source : 

https://www.ign.com/articles/plants-vs-zombies-replanted-is-a-new-anchor-for-the-franchise-popcap-says-and-a-chance-to-reacknowledge-the-series-roots

ChatGPT : 

Plants vs Zombies: Replanted is a remastered version of the original tower defense game, releasing on October 23, 2025 for $19.99 across PC and major consoles. PopCap calls it a chance to "reacknowledge the series' roots" and reintroduce the franchise with modern 4K visuals, local co-op, PVP, and new modes like Rest in Peace (a roguelike) and Cloudy Day (hard mode).

PopCap sees Replanted as a "definitive remaster" and a potential new anchor for the franchise after mixed reception to mobile-centric titles and 3D shooters. While there’s no word on PvZ 3 or smartphone release plans, Replanted reflects a return to what longtime fans loved. PopCap hints that if successful, this could be a template for reviving other classics in its library.

Opinion : 

Can't believe it has been 16 years since PvZ launched 😮

It's quite timeless. My kids love the characters. 

Remastered versions still cost too much 😋

Technology Updates : Switch 2 Accessory Attaches McDonald's Fries to the Console

Source : 

https://gamerant.com/switch-2-accessory-mcdonalds-fries-holder/

ChatGPT : 

A creative fan, user7R135, has made a 3D-printable accessory called GamiFries that lets Nintendo Switch 2 players attach a McDonald's fries container to the console or controller. Shared on MakerWorld, it comes in two modes: handheld (mounts beside the screen) and controller mode (replaces the grip). It mimics McDonald's red branding and even frames the logo. While amusing, it’s unofficial and not for sale—users must print it themselves. However, caution is advised, as food near electronics could cause damage or attract pests.

Opinion : 

Weird technology... 😂

Innovative but weird.

Gamers should walk around more for toilet and food 😚

Sports Updates : Remembering Hulk Hogans Best WWE Moments From a Legendary Body Slam to nWo

Source : 

https://www.usanetwork.com/usa-insider/hulk-hogan-best-wwe-moments

ChatGPT : 

Hulk Hogan, the late WWE legend, left behind a career filled with iconic moments that defined professional wrestling. His unforgettable body slam on Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III cemented him as a superstar. Hulkamania was born on January 23, 1984, when he defeated Iron Sheik for the WWE Championship at Madison Square Garden. Hogan shocked the world in 1996 by turning heel and forming the New World Order (nWo), revolutionizing wrestling factions. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice (2005, 2020). His epic WrestleMania X-8 match against The Rock remains one of WWE’s most celebrated bouts.

Opinion : 

I used to watch wrestling when I was young. Although my memories stick around Stone Cold Steven Austin, The Rock, Undertaker, etc. 

Hulk Hogan was good too, but somehow never stuck in my mind.

Although I've moved past wrestling now, that era where entertainment was mostly on television is carved deep to every child born during the 1980s.

Technology Updates : Commentary: More people are considering AI lovers, and we shouldn’t judge

Source : 

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/commentary/ai-chatbot-love-romance-risk-danger-safety-5249426

ChatGPT : 

AI companion apps are gaining popularity, with millions of users forming romantic bonds with chatbots. While critics fear these relationships could harm human intimacy, ethicist Neil McArthur argues they can be healthy, complementary connections rather than replacements. Risks like poor privacy, harmful behavior, or sudden loss of access need regulation, especially for younger users. Public education is key to understanding AI companions without stigma. Human relationships remain irreplaceable, but AI romances offer a safe space to explore emotions and fantasies.

Opinion : 

Robotics romance coming soon just like the movies? 😉

I think it's possible to have this in future, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Westworld_(TV_series)

I think governance and security will be configured more intricately at an individual level, unlike today.

LifeStyle Updates : I Visit Singapore's NEWEST Aquarium - First look inside Oceanarium

Entertainment Updates : Some S’poreans joke that new tower at MBS looks like a dehumidifier or ‘like a 4th person lurking’

Source : 

https://theindependent.sg/some-sporeans-joke-that-new-tower-at-mbs-looks-like-a-humidifier-or-like-a-4th-person-lurking/

ChatGPT : 

The S$10.3 billion fourth MBS tower was unveiled on July 15, 2025, as part of plans for an “ultra-luxurious resort and entertainment destination” with new amenities for tourists. While architect Moshe Safdie emphasized preserving MBS’s iconic design, locals on Reddit joked that the new tower looks like a “giant dehumidifier,” “Dyson Tower,” or “a fourth person lurking” that disrupts the symmetry of the original three towers.

Some believe Singaporeans will eventually adapt, just as they did with other landmark designs, while others worry it could dilute MBS’s global iconic image.

Gaming Updates : Akihabara Loses Former Sega Arcade Landmark After 32 Years

Source : 

https://geekculture.co/akihabara-loses-former-sega-arcade-landmark-after-32-years/

ChatGPT : 

The landmark Akihabara Gigo 1 arcade—formerly Sega’s flagship site—is set to close at the end of August 2025. Originally opened in 1992 as High Tech Land Sega Shintoku, the iconic red building evolved through multiple rebrandings. Its closure marks another step in Akihabara’s shift from niche gaming and anime culture to mainstream tourism.

Acquired by Genda in 2022, the arcade business continued under the Genda Gigo name. Rising rental costs likely prompted the closure. However, Genda still operates three arcades in the area and plans to convert the site into a new amusement hub. Meanwhile, Sega will open a new flagship store in Shibuya PARCO on July 18.

Gaming Updates : The best mobile games of 2025 so far (July 2025)

Source : 

https://www.pocketgamer.com/best-games/mobile-games-of-2025/

ChatGPT : 

Pocket Gamer and affiliated sites reviewed hundreds of mobile games released in 2025, selecting the best across various rating tiers. Highlights include:

⭐ 5 Stars (10/10 – Platinum Award):

- Crunchyroll: Shogun Showdown

- EvoCreo 2

- I Am Your Beast

⭐ 4.5 Stars (9/10 – Gold Award):

- Dredge, Jump King, Lara Croft: Guardian of Light, True Fear 3, Resident Evil 2, Songs of Conquest, Vampire’s Fall 2, and more.

⭐ 4 Stars (8/10 – Silver Award):

- Crashlands 2, Duck Detective, Primrows, Thronefall, Wargroove 2, etc.

⭐ 3.5 to 3 Stars (7–6/10):

- Backyard Baseball '97, TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge, Persona 5: The Phantom X, and more.

⭐ 2.5 Stars (5/10):

- Ultimate Chicken Horse

Games were filtered and reviewed by Pocket Gamer, 148Apps, and others in the Steel Media group, with decades of experience in mobile gaming. The list is regularly updated.

Gaming Updates : Steam Users Have Until July 17 to Claim 3 Games for Free

Source : 

https://gamerant.com/free-games-on-steam-july-2025/

ChatGPT : 

Steam users can claim three free strategy games — Battlestar Galactica: Deadlock, Field of Glory 2: Medieval, and Fantasy General 2 — until Thursday, July 17, 2025. All three games are published by Slitherine Ltd and have received "Very Positive" reviews. No subscription is required; users simply need to claim the games on their Steam store pages to keep them permanently. Steam regularly offers free games, but these giveaways are often unannounced in advance.

Sports Updates : Why tennis players grunt during matches

Source : 

https://edition.cnn.com/2024/07/10/sport/tennis-players-why-grunt-wimbledon-cec

ChatGPT : 

Summary: Why Tennis Players Grunt During Matches

Tennis players grunt to improve performance, regulate breathing, and release energy during strokes. Experts say grunting helps maintain rhythm and prevents breath-holding, which can hinder movement and power. It may also increase shot velocity—by up to 5%, according to studies—and psychologically pressure or distract opponents by masking the sound of the ball or disrupting timing. While controversial and often criticized as excessive or distracting, especially in women’s tennis, it’s now common across genders. For many players, grunting becomes instinctive and is tied to their intensity and playing style.

Sports Updates : China’s “moving Great Wall” basketballer makes senior team debut

Gaming Updates : What’s Next for 'MapleStory Universe'? More Ways to Play

Source : 

https://decrypt.co/327787/whats-next-maplestory-universe-more-ways-play

ChatGPT : 

Summary: What’s Next for MapleStory Universe?

Following the launch of MapleStory N, Nexpace (blockchain arm of Nexon) plans to *expand the MapleStory Universe* into a broader, more accessible ecosystem with mobile and web-based experiences by Q1 2026**.

🔹 Key Highlights:

- MapleStory N is a PC-based MMORPG where in-game items are represented as NFTs on the Avalanche-based Henesys blockchain.

- Nexpace aims to lower the entry barrier by launching over a dozen lighter mobile/web apps tied to the core game.

- First web app (launching by August 2025) will allow players to enhance items.

- Future apps will let users level characters, do quests, or grind XP on the go.

- A character rental system—where players can pay others to level up for them—is also being developed for release by early 2026.

🔧 Builder Ecosystem:

- Currently, third-party developers must get Nexpace approval and an API key to build.

- A developer portal is set to launch in Q3/Q4 2025, moving the platform toward a permissionless model.

- Builders will be rewarded in NXPC tokens, with 80% of supply reserved for contributors.

💬 Vision:

- Inspired by games like EA FC Ultimate Team, Nexpace wants MapleStory fans to casually engage with the universe throughout the day (e.g., while commuting or working), saving deep gameplay for weekends.

- All efforts aim to accommodate the aging player base, many of whom now have less time for PC gaming.

---

Bottom Line: MapleStory Universe is evolving beyond the PC with mobile/web expansions, contributor incentives, and eventual decentralization—making the iconic RPG more accessible for modern, time-strapped players.

Entertainment Updates : No longer a must-have? Why some Singapore malls are swapping cinemas for gyms and tuition centres

Source : 

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/shopping-malls-turn-sports-education-tenants-replace-cinemas-5177041

Apple Intelligence : 

• Tenant Mix Diversification: Mall operators are replacing cinemas with gyms, indoor basketball courts, tuition centres, and immersive dining experiences.

• Cinema Industry Challenges: Cinemas face difficulties due to the rise of streaming services and changing consumer preferences.

• Shift in Mall Operator Perspective: The pandemic accelerated a trend of people consuming entertainment at home, reducing the value proposition of cinemas as anchor tenants.

• Cathay Cineplexes Transformation: Cathay Cineplexes is transforming some of its outlets into education and enrichment hubs.

• Parkway Parade Example: Parkway Parade’s outlet has been transformed into an education and enrichment hub with a basketball academy and a math enrichment center.

• The Cathay Example: The Cathay along Handy Road now houses PSB Academy and other businesses, no longer operating as a cinema.

• Cinema Space Repurposing: Filmgarde Cineplexes’ space at Leisure Park Kallang will become an “immersive dining” venue.

• New Tenants at Parkway Parade: Scholar Basketball Academy is among the new tenants at level seven of Parkway Parade.

• Cinema Overhaul Plans: West Mall and AMK Hub plan to overhaul the cinema spaces formerly occupied by Cathay Cineplexes.

• Cinema Space Repurposing: Seletar Mall’s former Shaw Theatres space is expected to be repurposed, potentially for tenants like gyms or co-working spaces.

• Changing Consumer Behavior: Shifting consumer preferences and challenging market conditions are leading mall and cinema operators to reevaluate their business strategies.

• Mall Operator Preferences: Mall operators are increasingly seeking tenants that can generate consistent foot traffic throughout the day, favoring higher-paying options over cinemas.

• Tenant Selection Criteria: Mall operators prioritize tenants that can attract foot traffic, such as enrichment centers, gyms, and experiential F&B outlets.

• Reasons for Choosing Specific Tenants: These tenants are preferred because they encourage longer stays, attract customers during off-peak hours, and offer a diverse range of experiences.

• Cinemas’ Current Status: While rental payment delays are a concern, experts believe cinemas are not yet considered a significant risk for landlords.

• Cinema Space Reinstatement: Restoring a former cinema space can be expensive and time-consuming, potentially costing six figures and taking months.

• Benefits of Similar Tenants: Having a replacement tenant from a similar trade, like another cinema, can reduce capital expenditure and ensure stable income for both landlord and tenant.

• Shaw Theatres at Jem: Shaw Theatres will take over the cinema space at Jem, becoming the only cinema operator in the Jurong East catchment.