Latest Gaming News
Electronic Arts Goes Private in $55 Billion LBO Deal
Electronic Arts is set to go private in the largest LBO in gaming history at $55 billion, announced in late 2025 and nearing closure by June 30, 2026. The deal has cleared US antitrust reviews and gained European nods, offering shareholders a $210 premium amid rising AAA development costs.
It pressures rivals like Take-Two and Ubisoft while potentially diversifying EA beyond consoles.
Sony Shuts Down Bluepoint Games After 20 Years
Sony Interactive Entertainment announced the closure of remake specialist Bluepoint Games, affecting 70 employees, with operations ending in March 2026. The decision stems from rising costs, slowed growth, and a canceled live-service God of War project.
This follows other PlayStation studio shutdowns and impacts Sony's remake strategy amid rumors of God of War and Bloodborne projects.
Microsoft Names Asha Sharma as New EVP and CEO of Gaming
Asha Sharma has been appointed EVP and CEO of Microsoft Gaming, with Matt Booty promoted to EVP and Chief Content Officer. This leadership shift coincides with Phil Spencer's retirement and Sarah Bond's departure.
Microsoft aims to drive growth across Xbox, PC, cloud, and new play models while recommitting to core fans.
Phil Spencer Retiring from Microsoft Gaming Leadership
Long-time Xbox head Phil Spencer is retiring, marking a major transition in Microsoft Gaming. Sarah Bond is also out, with Asha Sharma taking over as CEO and Matt Booty as Chief Content Officer.
The changes emphasize AI integration, studio growth, and multi-platform expansion.
Roblox Dominates with 10 Billion Monthly Hours in 2025
Roblox players spent over 10 billion hours monthly in 2025, surpassing Steam, PlayStation, and Fortnite combined, driving 67% of non-China industry growth. It reached 150 million daily users, challenging even Netflix in engagement.
The platform's success highlights unique market dynamics amid controversies over safety and monetization.
35% of Game Developers Now Self-Funded Amid Challenges
A recent survey shows 35% of developers are self-funded, with 38% citing negative impacts from 2025 US tariffs. PC dominates platforms at 83%, followed by PS5 at 47%, with strong interest in Steam Deck and Switch 2.
Accessibility features are added by one-third, focusing on remapping and subtitles.
Virginia Passes Online Gaming Legalization Bill Controversially
Virginia's Senate passed a bill legalizing online gaming after opponents left the chamber, a win for DraftKings and FanDuel. Initially rejected, a revote succeeded without key 'no' votes present.
Supporters see it as a major step for the industry in the state.
Blockchain Monetization Fades to 0.4% in Game Development
Only 0.4% of developers use blockchain monetization, signaling its decline, while 74% focus on buy-to-play models. AAA studios lean more toward free-to-play at 33% versus indies at 22%.
VR/AR remains niche at 8%, dominated by Meta.
Strong Sales for Indie Hits Like R.E.P.O. and Peak
R.E.P.O. sold 867k copies to reach 18.4 million total, Peak added 692k for 15.5 million, and RV There Yet? hit 5.5 million. These figures highlight robust performance in recent weekly reports.
They contribute to ongoing indie success amid industry shifts.
Stop Killing Games Campaign Gains Traction in US and EU
The Stop Killing Games initiative on game preservation expresses optimism, stating 'I think we're gonna win this' for US and EU efforts. It addresses concerns over games becoming unplayable post-support.
The campaign pushes for regulatory changes to protect player access.
Microsoft Recommits to Xbox Hardware and Multi-Platform Play
Under new leadership, Microsoft pledges renewed focus on Xbox consoles alongside PC, mobile, and cloud expansion. The strategy emphasizes seamless experiences and empowering developers to reach players everywhere.
It builds on 40 studios spanning major franchises like Call of Duty and Halo.