There’s nothing major this week that hasn’t already been covered, so here are a few musings and thoughts:
- The 13th edition of Japanese indie game showcase BitSummit is proof that with perseverance and the right connections, an events company can survive – and even thrive – by serving its niche.
- There are currently only two first-party games confirmed for the Nintendo Switch 2, one of which is an overpriced kart racer. While the other is a solid 3D platformer, we suggest waiting for at least three to four more major first-party titles before committing to the console’s steep starting price (RM2,488 minimum in Malaysia).
- Judging by the new trailer, the upcoming Mortal Kombat 2 movie is proof that video game adaptations can still sell if they stick to what works – in this case, bone-crunching violence and a well-earned R-rating.
Short beats
Film company New Line has just released the official trailer for the upcoming action movie Mortal Kombat 2, the latest live-action adaptation of the iconic fighting game series.
The beta test for upcoming mobile first-person shooter Crossfire: Legends will be available in Southeast Asia from July 23 to Aug 22.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 locks a Spongebob Easter egg behind its US$70 Deluxe Edition. Players can pay an extra US$20 to unlock it in the Standard version.
FV Major 2025, Malaysia’s biggest fighting game tournament, will take place for the last time this July 26–27 at Sungei Wang Plaza, Kuala Lumpur.
Nearly 8,000 games on Steam this year have disclosed GenAI usage.
PixelJunk Eden 2, the long-awaited sequel to the 2008 psychedelic arcade hit, will be released on PC, PlayStation 5, and PlayStation 4 on Oct 10.
Japan’s biggest indie gaming festival, BitSummit 13th, is taking place now until July 20.
Op-ed
We reviewed two games this week: Mario Kart World and Shadow Labyrinth.
We also recap the top news, games we’ve played, and shows we’ve watched on our recent video podcast.
Games out this week
Donkey Kong Bananza is an exclusive Nintendo Switch 2 3D open-world platformer packed with action, puzzles, and minigames. You play as the titular ape bashing his way underground in search of golden bananas – joined by his singing sidekick, Pauline.
Shadow Labyrinth is a new 2D search-and-action title from Bandai Namco set in a dark sci-fi universe where you battle reimagined versions of iconic arcade characters.
Upin & Ipin Universe is a new open-world adventure game from Streamline Studios. It captures the essence of kampung life through heartwarming stories, vibrant culture, and family-friendly gameplay.
World’s End Club is a puzzle adventure game that follows 12 kids on a 1,200km cross-country journey across Japan. Brought to you by Zero Escape creator Kotaro Uchikoshi and Danganronpa’s Kazutaka Kodaka. Available on PC and consoles.
Edens Zero is a 3D action RPG based on Hiro Mashima’s Fairy Tail-adjacent space fantasy comic. Join a cast of heroes as they travel through planets battling powerful enemies.
Golden Tee Arcade Classics bundles all six classic Golden Tee golf games with new controls and a practice mode. Out now for PC and consoles.
Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact is a flashy 3v3 fighting game based on the hit anime and manga. It features combo-heavy, tag-team battles. Out for PC, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation 5.
Recommended viewing
There’s a ton of exciting indie games on show at this year’s BitSummit in Japan. Check out the livestream here.
