Entertainment Updates: Made-In-Singapore Indie Game ‘SEDAP! A Culinary Adventure’ Plates Up Major Update

Source:

https://geekculture.co/made-in-singapore-indie-game-sedap-a-culinary-adventure-plates-up-major-update/

ChatGPT:

SEDAP! A Culinary Adventure, the made-in-Singapore indie cooking-combat game by local studio kopiforge, has released its largest update to date. Called “The Seasoning Update,” the patch lands first on PC, with console updates arriving in December 2025. The update follows the game’s console debut and expands on a title already known for its chaotic co-op gameplay, 42 levels across three biomes, over 50 Southeast Asian recipes, and flexible split-screen modes.

The Seasoning Update introduces six major features, along with game balance tweaks, UI improvements, bug fixes, and Steam Trading Cards. Key additions include:

The Bestiary – A new chapter in the in-game Makanomicon that catalogues Khaya Island’s monsters with fresh artwork, names, and detailed descriptions.

In-Game Map – A quick-access aerial view showing ingredient spawn points and a dynamic respawn timer, helping players plan their cooking-combat strategies more effectively.

Herb Mode & Spice Mode – New difficulty options. Herb Mode offers a more relaxed experience with reduced damage, slower freshness decay, and lenient order timing. Standard difficulty is now named Spice Mode, and only in this mode can players earn Pink Stars. Difficulty can be switched at the start menu or in settings.

Four New Charms – Jade Earrings, Five Stones, Yadom, and Kerosang join the charm roster. With the charm weight limit increased from 5 to 7, players can equip more perks such as slowing food decay or starting with combo streaks.

The update also expands language support to 20 languages, covering major Asian languages plus Spanish, German, French, Italian, Turkish, Brazilian Portuguese, and more.

To celebrate, the game is offering a 35% discount on Steam, bringing its price to under US$10. SEDAP! first launched on PC in May with a soundtrack bundle, and online multiplayer for consoles is planned for early 2026.

Opinion:

Nice casual game?

Entertainment Updates: Haven is out now for mobile, breaking the escape room genre down to its unnerving essence

Source:

https://www.pocketgamer.com/haven-escape-room-game/out-now/

ChatGPT:

Haven, a new mobile escape-room game for iOS and Android, strips the genre down to its purest, most unsettling form. Developed by IzumiArtisan, the game removes the elaborate storylines and dramatic settings common in modern escape titles, focusing instead on a single room, a handful of puzzles, and the player’s own problem-solving skills.

In Haven, you wake up in a sparse, pale-walled room containing only a few pieces of furniture and no explanation of how you got there. The game’s core loop mirrors classic escape-room challenges: explore every corner, discover clues, and gradually unlock the sequence of puzzles that stand between you and freedom. While some escape games rely on tension, horror, or looming threats, Haven opts for calmness. Its relaxing background music, minimalistic environment, and lack of danger make the experience feel soothing yet strangely urgent, as the quiet atmosphere heightens your desire to break out.

The article notes that while escape rooms can vary wildly—from spaceships to fantasy dungeons—digital escape games don’t require countless reinventions. Mobile screens lack the immersive props and physical interactions of real-life escape rooms, so a strong digital puzzle game needs solid mechanics, coherent design, and intuitive progression rather than spectacle.

Haven delivers these essentials. It offers an accessible hint system, tactile mechanics that enhance immersion, and a simple, relatable setting. Best of all, the game is completely free to play, making it an easy entry point for anyone curious about escape-room puzzles.

For players who enjoy Haven and want more challenges, the article recommends checking out Pocket Gamer’s list of the best escape games available for Android.

Opinion:

Want to backlog this game into Backloggd but it's not found there 😅

Entertainment Updates: Bleach: Soul Resonance launches globally today, bringing Ichigo's tale to mobile

Source:

https://www.pocketgamer.com/bleach-soul-resonance/out-now-on-ios-and-android/

ChatGPT:

Bleach: Soul Resonance has officially launched worldwide on iOS and Android, bringing the iconic story of Ichigo Kurosaki and the cast of Bleach to mobile in a fast-paced action RPG format. Over 15 million pre-registrationshighlight massive interest in the title, signalling strong expectations for quality and faithful adaptation.

The game retells classic story arcs from the anime, letting players relive major battles and memorable moments. At launch, 17 playable characters are available, including fan favourites such as Byakuya Kuchiki, Kisuke Urahara, Uryū Ishida, and Ichigo himself. Players assemble teams of three, switching between characters mid-battle to create combos, dodge attacks, and unleash special skills. The gameplay features fluid arena-style combat paired with flashy visual effects that recreate the spectacle of the anime.

More characters will be added over time, each offering distinct combat styles to diversify team strategies. The game uses banner-based character recruitment familiar to gacha players, but includes an 80-draw SSR guarantee, ensuring all players secure at least one top-tier character within that limit. In addition to character pulls, players collect stamps, a progression system used to boost character stats such as damage output.

Despite gacha elements, the guarantee system aims to make progression more accessible. With faithful storytelling, a growing roster, and action-forward combat, Bleach: Soul Resonance seeks to appeal both to longtime fans and newcomers who may not yet know the depth of the series.

The game is free to download now on the App Store and Google Play, inviting players to dive into Soul Society and experience Bleach’s iconic battles in a modern mobile format.

Entertainment Updates: ‘Varsapura’ RPG From ‘Genshin Impact’ Developer HoYoverse Is Set In Singapore

Source:

https://geekculture.co/varsapura-rpg-from-genshin-impact-developer-hoyoverse-is-set-in-singapore/

ChatGPT:

HoYoverse, the studio behind hits like Genshin Impact and Zenless Zone Zero, has announced its next major project: Varsapura, an open-world RPG uniquely set in Singapore. The reveal came through a 31-minute gameplay video showcasing early footage and confirming that the game is being built on Unreal Engine 5. HoYoverse is also hiring for development roles in its Singapore and Shanghai offices, indicating a long development runway.

The demo shows the player character—customisable to “match each viewer’s preferences”—joining an organisation called SEAL (Shadow Emergency Alliance). Early gameplay includes combat against monsters using unconventional weapons such as umbrellas and paper folders. The narrative appears to centre around a mysterious condition known as Mindrot and disruptive events called Cognosea anomalies, though full plot details remain limited.

One of Varsapura’s standout features is its detailed recreation of Singapore. The trailer transitions from indoor missions to an open-world driving segment that highlights recognisable landmarks. Viewers spotted street signs referencing Serangoon and Rochor, as well as areas inspired by Bras Basah, Parliament House, and the Church of Saints Peter & Paul. The setting suggests an urban fantasy world layered over a stylised version of the city.

The footage was captured on an Nvidia RTX 4090 PC, emphasising the game’s early technical ambitions. However, HoYoverse has yet to disclose any specifics on monetisation. Given the studio’s history with gacha systems, players expect such mechanics to appear eventually, but nothing has been confirmed.

As the game remains in early development and the studio continues recruiting talent, it may take time before more details—including release plans—are revealed. Even so, Varsapura is shaping up to be one of HoYoverse’s most ambitious and intriguing titles, especially with its Singapore-based worldbuilding.

Gaming Updates: Nintendo eShop finally arrives in Singapore with Switch Online from S$4.90

Source:

https://www.hardwarezone.com.sg/entertainment/gaming/nintendo-eshop-singapore-malaysia-thailand-switch-online-pricing

ChatGPT:

Nintendo has officially launched the Nintendo eShop and Nintendo Switch Online service in Singapore, alongside Malaysia and Thailand, marking a long-awaited expansion of its digital ecosystem in Southeast Asia. The move brings full local support, including Singapore-priced games, local currency payments and access to Nintendo’s online subscription tiers.

Switch Online in Singapore now offers multiple membership options. Prices start from S$4.90 per month for the basic Nintendo Switch Online plan, while the full Switch Online + Expansion Pack tier costs S$69.90 per year for individuals. A 12-month Family Membership, supporting up to eight accounts, is priced at S$119.90. The Expansion Pack provides access to classic Nintendo game libraries and online multiplayer features, including titles like Mario Kart World. For many players, the annual Expansion Pack membership offers the best value.

Existing Nintendo Switch users who previously switched their eShop regions can easily migrate to the Singapore storefront. By logging into their Nintendo Account and selecting “Singapore” under country/region settings, users gain access to the local eShop while still being able to update previously downloaded games from other regions.

To celebrate the regional launch, major publishers such as Square Enix are offering limited-time discounts across select titles. Games like Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake and Octopath Traveller II are currently discounted between 35% and 60%, making this an ideal moment for players who were waiting for deals.

Overall, Nintendo’s entry into Singapore’s digital gaming market brings greater convenience, better pricing transparency and full access to online services that were previously limited or unavailable. The launch also signals Nintendo’s growing commitment to Southeast Asian gamers, who can now tap into the complete Switch ecosystem more seamlessly than ever.

Gaming Updates: Apple Arcade Adding World's Most Downloaded Mobile Game and More

Source:

https://www.macrumors.com/2025/11/12/apple-arcade-five-new-games-next-month/

ChatGPT:

Apple Arcade is expanding its catalog with five new titles arriving on December 4, highlighted by Subway Surfers+, a premium version of the world’s most downloaded mobile game. First launched in 2012, Subway Surfers has accumulated billions of downloads across platforms. The Apple Arcade edition preserves the classic endless-runner gameplay but removes all ads and in-app purchases. This version introduces alternative methods for reviving characters, collecting items, and progressing through the game. Apple Arcade previously released Subway Surfers Tag, a spin-off, in 2022.

Four additional games will launch on the same day. SpongeBob: Patty Pursuit 2 continues the popular side-scrolling adventure based on the beloved animated series. PowerWash Simulator brings its relaxing, task-focused gameplay to Apple Arcade, allowing players to clean a variety of dirty vehicles, buildings, and environments. Cult of the Lamb Arcade Edition adapts the award-winning roguelite dungeon crawler for mobile, letting players manage their cult, explore dungeons, and fight enemies. NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja STORM+, based on the iconic manga and anime franchise, offers fast-paced 3D combat and cinematic battles.

Meanwhile, one of Apple Arcade’s most popular titles, Sneaky Sasquatch, has rolled out a major update featuring a new farming town, expanding its already large open-world experience with fresh activities and areas.

Apple Arcade continues to position itself as a value-driven service offering hundreds of ad-free, microtransaction-free games across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro. In the U.S., the subscription costs $6.99 per month, and it is included in every tier of Apple One, Apple’s bundled services plan. The December additions strengthen Apple Arcade’s lineup by blending iconic franchises with acclaimed indie hits, aiming to appeal to a broad audience of casual and core gamers alike.

Gaming Updates: Analysis: Valve’s new Steam Hardware projects are a potential challenge to Microsoft and Meta

Source:

https://www.geekwire.com/2025/analysis-valves-new-steam-hardware-projects-are-a-potential-challenge-to-microsoft-and-meta/

ChatGPT:

Valve is expanding its hardware lineup following the strong success of the Steam Deck, and its newly announced products—the Steam Machine, Steam Controller, and Steam Frame VR headset—could shake up multiple corners of the gaming industry. Expected in 2026, the new Steam Machine targets living-room gaming and is claimed to be six times more powerful than the Steam Deck. Meanwhile, the Steam Controller offers a high-durability gamepad, and the Steam Frame aims to compete directly with Meta’s VR devices. Pricing details are still unknown, but will be crucial, as affordability was a major driver behind the Steam Deck’s popularity.

Because Steam controls 50–75% of global PC gaming, Valve can afford aggressive pricing, and a low-cost Steam Machine could appeal to younger players and the growing Asian PC market. If priced like the Deck, the lineup could become disruptive—especially for Microsoft and Meta. Microsoft’s next Xbox, rumored for 2027, is expected to resemble a Windows-based mini PC, making Valve’s Linux-powered Steam Machine an appealing escape for users wary of Windows 11 and Copilot integration. The Machine’s plug-and-play Linux desktop mode also strengthens its positioning as an accessible, non-Windows PC alternative.

In VR, the Steam Frame is clearly positioned against Meta Quest, which dominates largely due to its strong performance and low costs. Many VR users dislike Meta’s ecosystem, so a standalone Valve option could gain traction.

Still, the article argues that Valve likely isn’t pursuing an intentional disruption strategy. Historically, its hardware projects—including the Steam Deck—were created out of internal curiosity rather than competitive ambitions. With no shareholders and a culture of experimentation, Valve may simply be releasing long-incubated ideas rather than plotting a direct challenge to industry giants.

Gaming Updates: The Indie Game Awards 2025 GOTY Nominee List Is Packed With Switch Hits

Source:

https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/11/the-indie-game-awards-2025-goty-nominee-list-is-packed-with-switch-hits

ChatGPT:

The Indie Game Awards are returning for 2025, and with 18 categories celebrating achievements across accessibility, design, community, emotional impact, and more, the spotlight is firmly on standout indie titles. The biggest category, Game of the Year, features a lineup packed with games already available on the Nintendo Switch, making this year especially appealing for Switch players.

Headlining the GOTY nominees are major indie sequels like Hollow Knight: Silksong and Hades II, both highly anticipated and widely acclaimed. They’re joined by smaller but noteworthy releases such as Citizen Sleeper 2, Roger, Absolum, and Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo — all recommended picks for Switch owners. The list also includes several promising titles yet to arrive on the platform, like Consume Me, Keep Driving, and the stylish, much-buzzed-about Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Blue Prince, which fans hope will land on Switch 2.

Beyond GOTY, Switch indies appear across the awards slate. BALL x PIT is up for Gameplay Design, Herdling for Music, Antonblast for Solo Development, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical Takedown competes for the Black Voice in Gaming Award. Meanwhile, Duck Detective: The Ghost of Glamping is nominated for the Women-Led Indie Game Award, highlighting the breadth and diversity of games being recognized.

The Indie Game Awards 2025 will stream live on 18 December at 11:30pm GMT / 3:30pm PT / 6:30pm ET via the Six One Indie YouTube and Twitch channels. Fans can visit the official Indy Game Awards website for the complete list of nominees and presenters as the indie community prepares to celebrate another year of creativity and innovation.

Entertainment Updates: Apple Arcade Adding World's Most Downloaded Mobile Game and More

Source:

https://www.macrumors.com/2025/11/12/apple-arcade-five-new-games-next-month/

ChatGPT:

Apple Arcade will expand its lineup on December 4, adding five new titles, including Subway Surfers+, the premium version of the world’s most downloaded mobile game. Originally launched in 2012, Subway Surfers has accumulated billions of downloads. The Apple Arcade edition removes ads and in-app purchases, offering cleaner gameplay and new methods for reviving characters, collecting items, and progressing. 

This follows Subway Surfers Tag, a 2022 Apple Arcade spin-off. Other upcoming releases include SpongeBob: Patty Pursuit 2, a sequel to the side-scrolling platformer; PowerWash Simulator, where players clean vehicles and buildings; Cult of the Lamb: Arcade Edition, a mobile port of the award-winning roguelite; and NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja STORM+, a 3D fighting game inspired by the hit anime series. 

In addition, *Sneaky Sasquatch*, one of Apple Arcade’s most popular titles, recently introduced a major farming town expansion, enhancing its open-world gameplay. Apple Arcade provides ad-free and in-app purchase–free access to hundreds of premium games across Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro. The service costs US$6.99 per month and is included in all Apple One bundles. Subscribers can access Apple Arcade via the App Store or Apple Games app, continuing Apple’s push to make premium mobile gaming more accessible and seamless across its ecosystem.

Entertainment Updates: The Next 5 Big Graphics Games That Will Be Stunning

Source:

https://gamerant.com/best-graphics-upcoming-games-gta-resident-evil/

ChatGPT:

As gaming nears the end of the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S era, developers are finally unlocking the full graphical potential of these systems. The next wave of confirmed 2026 releases promises to be visually groundbreaking, with five major titles leading the charge.

Resident Evil Requiem (Feb 27, 2026) showcases Capcom’s most ambitious project yet. Powered by the RE Engine, it delivers chilling realism, cinematic lighting, and lifelike characters, continuing the franchise’s evolution in horror immersion.

Crimson Desert (Mar 19, 2026) from Pearl Abyss boasts one of gaming’s most breathtaking open worlds. Built on the advanced BlackSpace Engine, its vast, destructible landscapes, dragon-riding combat, and army-scale battles promise an unprecedented blend of beauty and chaos.

Saros (Mar 20, 2026), the next PS5 exclusive from Housemarque, expands on Returnal’s formula with deeper roguelike gameplay, vivid particle effects, and seamless DualSense integration. It’s expected to fully harness the PS5’s hardware for fluid, high-intensity visuals.

007: First Light (Mar 27, 2026) by IO Interactive uses its in-house Glacier Next engine to deliver cinematic stealth-action sequences, richly detailed environments, and realistic character animation, setting a new standard for spy thrillers.

Finally, Grand Theft Auto 6 (May 26, 2026) stands as the industry’s most anticipated technical showcase. With hyper-realistic NPCs, vast environments, and unmatched visual fidelity, Rockstar aims to redefine open-world realism.

Together, these titles mark a high point for current-gen gaming — blending cutting-edge technology with artistry to deliver worlds more lifelike, immersive, and visually stunning than ever before.

Entertainment Updates: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is Everything Modern Gaming Needs to Be - 6 Months Later

Source:

https://youtu.be/YC4p_NrQElU?si=MelQG3P5lEXXulQk

Entertainment Updates: Hitman: Absolution is out now for mobile, with this contentious entry making a polished return

Source:

https://www.pocketgamer.com/hitman-absolution/out-now/

ChatGPT:

Hitman: Absolution has officially launched on iOS and Android, marking the return of one of the franchise’s most divisive yet distinctive entries. Priced at US$14.99, this polished mobile port is developed by Feral Interactive, the studio known for high-quality adaptations like Alien: Isolation and Total War: Empire.

Originally released in 2012, Hitman: Absolution took the stealth series in a different direction — replacing its signature sandbox assassinations and global missions with a more linear, action-focused story. The game follows Agent 47 as he goes rogue to protect a mysterious young girl tied to The Agency, taking on violent foes across a darker, grindhouse-style narrative. While its emphasis on gunplay over stealth drew criticism at launch, the game has since earned renewed appreciation for its cinematic presentation and focused gameplay.

Feral’s new mobile port revitalises the experience with customisable touch controls, controller and keyboard support, and auto-aim for smoother shooting. Players can also adjust performance through multiple graphics presets, ensuring it runs well on both flagship and mid-range devices. The intuitive Instinct mode helps newcomers identify targets easily, while classic disguises and stealth mechanics preserve the series’ signature feel.

This release offers both veterans and newcomers a chance to re-evaluate Absolution in its most accessible form yet. It may not be the most traditional entry in the Hitman series, but with Feral’s trademark polish and technical optimisation, the mobile version stands as a refined and portable way to experience Agent 47’s most personal mission to date.

Opinion:

Never liked this genre of games.

But I can see why some people may like it.

Entertainment Updates: Sonic Rumble set to launch this November

Source:

https://www.pocketgamer.biz/sonic-rumble-set-to-launch-this-november/

ChatGPT:

Sega’s upcoming multiplayer title, Sonic Rumble, is officially set to launch in November 2025, marking the Sonic franchise’s first-ever multiplayer game. Now open for pre-registration on both PC and mobile platforms, the 32-player battle royale pits fan-favourite characters such as Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Amy, Shadow, and Dr Eggman against one another to be the last one standing.

Originally planned for release earlier this year, Sonic Rumble faced several delays — first from winter to spring, then indefinitely just a week before its May launch. According to Rovio’s head of beacon growth, Veli Kiviaho, these postponements were to ensure the game runs smoothly on mid-tier devices, having already achieved strong performance on high-end hardware.

Set in a colourful toy world created by Dr Eggman, the game features chaotic obstacle-course gameplay reminiscent of Fall Guys, with the added speed and flair of the Sonic universe. Players can join global matches either solo or in four-person squads, competing across various arenas filled with hazards and moving traps.

The latest trailer showcases expanded features, including friend-based “Crews” for timed events and team rewards, as well as new stages, modes, and dynamic abilities to obstruct opponents. Sega has also overhauled the progression system, making it easier to unlock cosmetics and character abilities while simplifying achievements for a more rewarding grind.

With its blend of fast-paced action, accessible multiplayer mechanics, and nostalgic characters, Sonic Rumble looks poised to deliver a lively and competitive twist on the iconic blue hedgehog’s world when it launches this November.

Opinion:

Looks cool.

Sonic > Mario on mobile games.

Mario > Sonic on console games.

Gaming Updates: ROG Xbox Ally X review: Finally, a proper Windows-based gaming handheld

Source:

https://www.hardwarezone.com.sg/entertainment/gaming/rog-xbox-ally-x-gaming-handheld-review

ChatGPT:

ASUS’s ROG Xbox Ally X marks a major refinement for Windows-based handheld gaming. Co-developed with Microsoft, it’s the first officially Xbox-branded Windows device, aiming to deliver a console-like experience while retaining full PC flexibility. Priced at S$1,299, it’s premium but arguably the most balanced Windows handheld to date.

Powered by the new AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip with RDNA 3.5 graphics and a dedicated NPU, the Ally X runs cooler, faster, and more efficiently than its predecessors. It comes with 24GB LPDDR5X RAM, 1TB SSD, and an 80Wh battery, offering up to 9.5 hours of office use or three hours of gaming — a huge leap in battery life. The 7-inch FHD 120Hz IPS display remains bright and responsive, trading OLED contrast for better efficiency.

Design-wise, ASUS nailed ergonomics and build quality. The handheld now feels sturdier, better balanced, and more comfortable with chunkier grips and Xbox-style controls. Cooling is quieter and smoother, while the dual USB-C ports and simplified layout improve practicality, even if the proprietary GPU dock is gone.

Performance is steady across demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Horizon Zero Dawn, showing no major throttling issues. More importantly, the Xbox-first interface finally feels native — booting straight into Game Pass and Xbox Cloud titles, while still supporting Steam, Epic, and emulators.

While Windows 11 remains clunky for handheld use, ASUS and Microsoft have made major strides toward making it viable. The ROG Xbox Ally X isn’t for everyone, but for PC gamers seeking a powerful, portable, and polished Windows handheld, it’s the first one that truly gets it right.

Opinion:

Nice device.

Will work well for emulation.

The price though is tough to take. 😅

Entertainment Updates: IN FOCUS: Are PC cafes making a comeback in Singapore?

Source:

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/pc-cafes-lan-shops-esports-gaming-mobile-in-focus-5397816

ChatGPT:

Once a staple of Singapore’s youth culture in the 2000s, PC cafes—or LAN shops—have largely disappeared, shrinking from over 100 outlets to just 15 licensed computer game centres today. Yet, they are now experiencing a quiet reinvention rather than extinction. Modern PC cafes are cleaner, more comfortable, and premium, featuring private gaming rooms, high-end equipment, and even bubble tea.

Industry veterans and new entrepreneurs are reshaping the scene. Titan Gaming, Ignite Gaming SG, and Elixir Esportshave turned traditional LAN shops into esports arenas, offering professional-grade setups, tournaments, and social experiences. For example, Elixir provides hospitality-style amenities—blankets, slippers, and drinks—while Titan and Ignite host leagues and sponsor esports teams. These operators aim to make gaming social, aspirational, and community-driven, not just a casual pastime.

Meanwhile, long-time players like Clique Gaming and Good Speed Game Cafe have diversified into board games, cuesports, and console gaming, evolving into multi-entertainment hubs. Clique now earns most of its revenue from pool and PlayStation setups, while Good Speed has transformed into a “community space” focused on human connection.

Experts note that Singapore’s scene lags behind gaming hotspots like South Korea, China, or Malaysia, where esports are nationally integrated. Still, Singapore’s rising interest in competitive gaming and government support for major esports events suggest potential for a revival.

Beyond gaming, PC cafes now serve as modern “third places”—safe, social environments where youths and even seniors can connect offline. As Redd+E’s Yip Ren Kai put it: “Devices may change, but the desire to connect, compete, and share experiences hasn’t.”

Opinion:

Lan shops experience was part of my childhood.

I think there will be a resurgence of this form of entertainment when my generation grows older.

Entertainment Updates: Apple Arcade Adding These Four Games Next Month

Source:

https://www.macrumors.com/2025/10/07/apple-arcade-games-coming-in-november/

ChatGPT:

Apple announced four new games coming to Apple Arcade in early November 2025.

• Football Manager 26 Touch launches on November 4, featuring updated graphics, Premier League licensing, and women’s soccer.

• On November 6, three more titles arrive: MySims, MySims Kingdom, and Toca Boca Jr Classics.

Apple Arcade, priced at US$6.99/month in the U.S. or bundled in Apple One, offers unlimited access to hundreds of ad-free, in-app-purchase-free games across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro.

Gaming Updates: RidePods is the first iPhone game you control with AirPods

Source:

https://www.theverge.com/news/787396/ride-pods-race-with-head-apple-airpods-spatial-audio-motion-controls

ChatGPT:

Developer Ali Tanis has introduced RidePods – Race with Head, the first iOS and iPadOS game controlled entirely through Apple’s AirPods. Instead of swiping the screen or tilting the phone, players steer a motorcycle through oncoming traffic by tilting their heads while wearing AirPods that support Spatial Audio, such as AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, and the 3rd and 4th generation AirPods. These models use built-in gyroscopes and accelerometers to track head movements, which the game repurposes for controls.

Although Tanis reverse-engineered Spatial Audio to make the game work, Apple already allows developers access to headphone motion data for other applications, like fitness tracking. Early tests show the controls feel more natural and responsive than expected, with the bike reacting smoothly even to subtle head shifts. Players can also use just one AirPod, or turn off Automatic Head/Ear Detection to transform an earbud into a handheld motion controller for extra challenge.

Gameplay, however, remains limited. The racing occurs on a perfectly straight road, with occasional graphical glitches such as disappearing terrain. The app includes optional settings to control acceleration and braking by nodding or tilting, but these appear inconsistent. Players can switch between first- and third-person perspectives, and even record gameplay clips paired with a selfie video for sharing.

While RidePods feels more like a tech demo than a polished game, it demonstrates the potential of AirPods as motion-based controllers for mobile gaming. The concept hints at possibilities for hands-free gaming experiences far beyond racing, with the developer joking that even a head-gesture-controlled version of Solitaire could be a fun future use case.

Opinion:

Cool concept. 

Curious to see where this goes.

Imagine a Dance Dance Revolution spin-off where you just whip your head around violently. 

Gaming Updates: Pokémon Go is bringing couples together

Source:

https://www.pocketgamer.com/pokemon-go/is-bringing-together-couples/

ChatGPT:

Video games often foster connections, and Pokémon Go has leaned heavily into community-building with features like Campfire and raid RSVP systems. These efforts have not only encouraged social play but also sparked relationships. At Pokémon Go Fest Paris earlier this year, Niantic even offered couples the chance to register for special proposal experiences, including photo opportunities with mascot Pokémon such as Mimikyu. Several couples, including Dylan and Kayleigh, chose the event to mark their engagements.

Dylan and Kayleigh’s journey with the game began in 2023 while at university. Dylan introduced Pokémon Go as a fun, social distraction during a difficult period for Kayleigh, who had little prior knowledge of the franchise. Their first major event together, Slowpoke Community Day, became a cherished memory and cemented Slowpoke as Kayleigh’s favourite Pokémon. What started as casual play with friends soon grew into something deeper, with Pokémon Go becoming a central part of their relationship.

The couple has since attended multiple Pokémon Go events across Europe, from Paris to Madrid, combining travel with shared gameplay experiences. Dylan, a lifelong Pokémon fan familiar with Nintendo Switch titles and the Pokémon Trading Card Game, found in Kayleigh a partner who quickly embraced the world of Pokémon through the mobile game.

At Fest Paris, Dylan surprised Kayleigh with a proposal that incorporated their shared love of Pokémon Go. Looking ahead, they plan to include Pokémon touches in their wedding. Their story highlights how Niantic’s push for in-person community events has extended beyond gaming, helping people form lasting personal connections.

For many players, Pokémon Go is more than catching Pokémon—it’s a way to build friendships, experiences, and even lifelong partnerships.

Technology Updates: Gemini AI will help you play games on Google Play

Source:

https://www.theverge.com/news/783132/android-gaming-gemini-ai-sidekick

ChatGPT:

Google is integrating its Gemini AI assistant into mobile gaming on the Play Store, offering players real-time help directly within their games. The new feature, called Gemini Live, will appear in a sidebar overlay that launches without leaving the game. Players can ask for hints using voice commands, and Gemini will provide spoken responses tailored to what’s happening on-screen, as the AI can “see” the game in progress.

The rollout begins with select titles over the coming months, mirroring Microsoft’s Gaming Copilot integration for Xbox and Windows 11. By embedding assistance directly into the gameplay experience, Google aims to make guidance seamless, whether players are stuck on a level or looking for strategy tips.

In addition to AI support, the sidebar will offer easy access to rewards, offers, and achievements, giving players a central hub for progress tracking. The update also coincides with Google’s broader gaming initiatives, including the general release of Google Play Games for PC, which allows more than 200,000 mobile titles to be played across platforms.

Other improvements to the Play Store include enhanced game pages that display player progress, achievements, and developer updates in one place. Google is also testing a new community Q&A feature, enabling players to ask questions about specific games directly on their store pages, with fellow gamers providing responses.

Together, these updates position the Play Store as not just a hub for downloads, but a richer ecosystem for gameplay support, cross-platform integration, and community interaction. With Gemini AI at the core, Google is signaling its commitment to making mobile and PC gaming more connected, accessible, and interactive.

Gaming Updates: Here’s everything new Apple Arcade has coming in October

Source:

https://9to5mac.com/2025/09/23/heres-everything-new-apple-arcade-has-coming-in-october/

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Apple has announced four new titles joining Apple Arcade in October 2025, further expanding its subscription gaming library. The first wave arrives on October 2, featuring three family-friendly games: Dominoes: Classic Tile Game+, Piffle+, and Thomas & Friends: Let’s Roll+. These additions continue Apple’s trend of including casual and accessible titles suitable for a wide audience.

The month’s biggest highlight lands on October 16 with NBA 2K26 Arcade Edition, which debuts the new NBA Erasfeature. Developed by Visual Concepts, NBA Eras allows players to relive historic matchups beginning with the iconic rivalry between Larry Bird and Magic Johnson. Gamers can experience classic drafts, championships, and recreate highlight reels with legendary athletes across decades. Rebecca Chan, Visual Concepts’ general manager, described the project as an exciting opportunity to bring basketball’s storied history into the mobile gaming space.

This follows September’s additions of NFL Retro Bowl ’26 and Jeopardy! Daily, signaling Apple Arcade’s growing mix of sports and entertainment-based content. While the service was once dominated by indie games, Apple has increasingly leaned on well-known franchises and major IPs to attract broader audiences.

Apple Arcade remains available at US$6.99 per month, or as part of the Apple One bundle, and provides subscribers with access to more than 200 games free of ads and in-app purchases. The October lineup reflects Apple’s continued push to diversify its catalogue, blending classic casual games with premium sports titles that appeal to both younger audiences and long-time fans.