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Esports World Cup 2026: 75 Million USD Prize Pool, Full Schedule, and Game List Revealed

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esports world cup 2026

Esports has become a major sport and we have how quick it surged to the place that it is today. A global event of Esports, Esports World Cup 2026 is shaping up to be the biggest esports event ever. The Esports World Cup Foundation has officially announced a massive 75 million USD (around Rs 600+ crore) prize pool, along with the full game lineup and event schedule. Here is all you can expect about Esports World Cup 2026.

Esports World Cup 2026: When and Where it Takes Place?

The Esports World Cup 2026 will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 6 to August 23, 2026, and tickets will go on sale from January 22, 2026. This seven-week festival is poised to become the “Olympics of Esports.”

What Is the Esports World Cup?

The Esports World Cup (EWC) is not just one tournament. It is a seven-week esports festival where multiple popular games are played at the same time across different arenas.

In 2026:

  • Over 2,000 players

  • From 200+ esports teams (called Clubs)

  • Representing 100+ countries

  • Will compete in 25 tournaments across 24 games

At the end, one team will be crowned the Esports World Cup Club Champion, meaning the best team across all games combined.

Why the 75 Million USD Prize Pool Is a Big Deal

The scale of the 2026 prize money is unprecedented, designed to reward both individual excellence and organizational dominance. The 75 million USD fund is strategically divided to elevate the stakes across the board:

  • 30 Million USD for the Club Championship: The ultimate prize for the best-performing organization across multiple titles. The top-ranked “Club” will walk away with a staggering 7 million USD.

  • 39+ USD Million for Game Championships: Each of the 24 featured titles will host its own dedicated tournament with life-changing payouts.

  • Performance Bonuses: The remaining funds are earmarked for MVPs, “Special Comeback” awards, and regional qualifier rewards.

Games Featured at Esports World Cup 2026

The EWC 2026 features a diverse roster of 24 games spanning mobile, PC, and console platforms. This year sees the high-profile inclusion of titles like Fortnite and Trackmania, ensuring every facet of the gaming community is represented.

Key Highlights from the 24-Game Roster:

  • Tactical Shooters: VALORANT, Counter-Strike 2, Rainbow Six Siege X.

  • Battle Royales: PUBG Mobile, Apex Legends, Free Fire, Call of Duty: Warzone.

  • MOBAs & Strategy: Dota 2, League of Legends, Honor of Kings, Chess.

  • Sports & Fighting: EA Sports FC 26, Street Fighter 6, TEKKEN 8, Rocket League.

ewc 2026 prize pool

Official 2026 Tournament Schedule

The EWC 2026 features non-stop action across seven weeks, with multiple tournaments often running simultaneously.

Week Dates Featured Games & Tournaments
Week 1 July 06 – 12 VALORANT, Apex Legends Global Series, Dota 2, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves
Week 2 July 13 – 19 League of Legends, Free Fire, Dota 2, MLBB Women’s International
Week 3 July 20 – 26 EA Sports FC Pro World Championship, PUBG: Battlegrounds, Teamfight Tactics
Week 4 July 27 – Aug 02 Overwatch Champions Series, Call of Duty: Warzone, MLBB Mid Season Cup, Street Fighter 6
Week 5 Aug 03 – 09 Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Honor of Kings World Cup, TEKKEN 8, PMWC (PUBG Mobile World Cup)
Week 6 Aug 10 – 16 Rocket League, PMWC, Chess, Rainbow Six Siege X
Week 7 Aug 17 – 23 Counter-Strike 2, Fortnite Reload Elite Series, Crossfire, Trackmania

esports world cup 2026

Structure and Fan Experience

Unlike traditional single-game events, the EWC runs multiple tournaments in parallel across high-tech arenas. This format allows fans to witness several Grand Finals within a single week, creating a non-stop “festival” atmosphere.

Over 2,000 elite players from 200+ global clubs will represent more than 100 countries. For fans looking to attend in person, tickets are scheduled to go on sale starting January 22, 2026, offering everything from weekly passes to premium VIP hospitality packages.

Following the massive success of 2025, which saw 750 million viewers and 3 million on-site visitors, the upcoming 2026 edition aims to shatter every existing record.

Sony Exec Explains Why Games Vanish From PlayStation Plus, Confirms No Day-One First-Party Releases

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playstation plus

Have you ever tried playing games through PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass? It’s pretty awesome, as you can enjoy games without having to buy them outright. Plus, there’s a huge collection of titles available for you to dive into anytime. However, it’s often frustrating when a game you’ve been eyeing suddenly disappears from the service. This isn’t just limited to third-party titles, but sometimes includes older Sony exclusives as well, leaving fans wondering about the reasoning behind these decisions.

Recently, Nick Maguire, Vice President of Global Services at PlayStation, addressed this concern in an interview with Game File. He explained that Sony’s approach is about maintaining a dynamic, evolving catalog rather than a static library. According to Maguire, with over 80 collections available, it’s important to rotate titles to keep the service exciting for subscribers. “We aim to refresh the catalog consistently, which sometimes requires removing a few titles to make room for new experiences,” he noted.

The removal of third-party games like Grand Theft Auto V typically comes down to expiring licensing agreements. However, what catches the community off guard is when first-party games such as Infamous: Second Son, Resistance: Fall of Man, and Resistance 2 are delisted. Maguire emphasised that while it might seem unusual, it’s part of a broader content management strategy to avoid stagnation and give lesser-known or new titles a moment in the spotlight.

Despite these rotations, PlayStation Plus continues to see strong engagement numbers. Though Sony hasn’t revealed recent subscriber figures, Maguire mentioned that activity on the platform is at an all-time high. Interestingly, while competitors like Xbox Game Pass have adopted a “day-one” release model for their first-party titles, Maguire confirmed that Sony has no intention of taking that route. “Our strategy has consistently been different; we don’t plan to release new first-party titles on PlayStation Plus the same day as their global launch,” he stated.

In addition to clarifying removal policies, Maguire touched on how Sony selects new additions to the service. The company often game releases strategically, such as introducing a franchise’s earlier instalment just ahead of a sequel’s debut. There’s also an effort to release one classic game each month, though delays can happen due to the complexities of emulation.

Looking ahead, Sony has announced the lineup of new titles arriving on PlayStation Plus in July. Subscribers can look forward to Diablo 4, The King of Fighters 15, and Don’t Nod’s Jusant, continuing the service’s effort to deliver a fresh and varied game library.

Also Read: Microsoft Reportedly Plans for Another Major Xbox Layoffs Next Week

BMPS 2025 Grand Finals: Top 16 BGMI Teams Clash for Rs 2 Crore Prize in Delhi

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bmps 2025

The stage is set for one of India’s biggest esports showdowns as the Battlegrounds Mobile India Pro Series – BMPS 2025 Grand Finals gears up to take over the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in New Delhi from July 4 to 6. Here is all you need to know about the BMPS 2025 Grand Finals.

BMPS 2025 Grand Finals – Qualified Teams, Schedule, and More

After weeks of intense qualifiers that began on May 22 with 96 invited teams, the tournament has whittled down to the nation’s top sixteen sides, all set to battle it out for the coveted trophy and a share of the Rs 2 crore prize pool.

This year’s finale isn’t just about big prize money — it’s a celebration of the rapid growth of India’s esports landscape. The BMPS 2025 Grand Finals bring together a mix of seasoned veterans and fearless new challengers, creating a dynamic clash of experience and fresh ambition. Organisers have promised a spectacular event where established legends and rising underdogs will write the next chapter of Indian esports history.

The final 16 teams competing for glory are:

  • NoNx eSports
  • Aryan x TMG Gaming
  • GENESIS ESPORTS
  • Los Hermanos
  • Team Eggy
  • Team Forever
  • TWOB
  • OnePlus K9 Esports
  • GODS OMEN
  • OnePlus Gods Reign ft. Destro
  • iQOO 8BIT ft. Saumraj
  • Team Insane Esports
  • Rising Inferno Esports
  • 4TR Official
  • 4Merical Esports
  • 2oP Official

Fans lucky enough to attend in person can expect an electrifying atmosphere, meet-and-greet opportunities, and front-row access to intense, high-stakes battles. Tickets for the Grand Finals are now available via Swiggy Scenes. Meanwhile, the action will be broadcast live on the official Krafton India Esports YouTube channel, offering viewers cinematic coverage, expert commentary, and every heart-pounding moment from the battleground.

Adding to the excitement, it was recently announced that OnePlus has partnered as the official title sponsor and smartphone partner for the upcoming BGMI Masters Series (BGMS) Season 4, further cementing its presence in India’s competitive gaming scene.

Also Read: Microsoft Reportedly Plans for Another Major Xbox Layoffs Next Week

Microsoft Reportedly Plans for Another Major Xbox Layoffs Next Week

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xbox layoffs

Microsoft is reportedly preparing for another significant round of layoffs within its Xbox division next week, as part of a broader company-wide restructuring effort. According to a Bloomberg report, senior staff across Xbox have already been informed to expect widespread job cuts, although the company has yet to release an official statement.

This would mark the fourth major workforce reduction within Xbox in the past 18 months. The layoffs come amid ongoing internal pressure following Microsoft’s $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard in 2023. Since then, the tech giant has shuttered multiple gaming subsidiaries and restructured its gaming operations in an effort to improve profitability and streamline resources.

Sources suggest the latest round of layoffs is expected to coincide with the end of Microsoft’s fiscal year on June 30 — a period historically associated with major organisational changes at the company. Analysts note this timing allows Microsoft to enter the new financial year with a leaner structure and a renewed strategic focus, particularly as it shifts attention toward artificial intelligence and other emerging priorities.

While the exact number of job losses remains unclear, reports indicate that several teams within the Xbox division could be impacted, alongside roles in Microsoft’s global sales operations. The move is expected to affect further morale within Xbox, which has already endured multiple waves of redundancies and internal reshuffles.

In May, Microsoft laid off around 6,000 employees, accounting for approximately 3% of its global workforce. Earlier, in January 2024, the company terminated 1,900 roles at Activision Blizzard and Xbox, followed by another 650 job cuts within the gaming unit in September.

As of June 2024, Microsoft employed approximately 228,000 people worldwide, with about 45,000 staff working in sales and marketing. CEO Satya Nadella previously stated that recent layoffs were not performance-related but necessary to realign teams in line with Microsoft’s evolving business priorities, particularly its growing emphasis on AI-driven initiatives.

Also Read: Microsoft Reportedly Cutting Off 1900 Activision Blizzard and Xbox Employees Following $69 Billion Acquisition

Nvidia DLSS 4 Introduced with Multi Frame Generation for 4K 240fps Ray-Traced Gaming

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nvidia ces 2025

Nvidia has officially introduced the latest iteration of its Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) technology, DLSS 4, which brings significant advancements in neural rendering capabilities. This new technology, when combined with the future RTX 50 Series GPUs, introduces Multi Frame Generation, which allows up to three extra frames to be created for each normally generated frame. According to Nvidia, this improvement can increase frame rates by up to eight times compared to traditional rendering techniques.

Nvidia DLSS 4 Unlocks 4K 240fps Ray-Traced Gaming

DLSS 4 is set to revolutionize gaming performance, potentially making 4K resolution gaming at 240fps with full ray tracing a reality. This innovation is a component of a larger update of DLSS features, which also includes DLAA, Super Resolution, and Ray Reconstruction.

Other key highlights of DLSS 4 include:

  • Transformer AI: DLSS 4 incorporates transformer AI models, similar to those used in ChatGPT, across all GeForce RTX GPUs. This enhances existing DLSS features like Ray Reconstruction and Super Resolution, delivering improved image quality and reduced ghosting.
  • Reflex 2 with Frame Warp: This new technology minimizes input latency by up to 75%, ensuring a more responsive and immersive gaming experience.

Nvidia highlights that the new frame generation model is 40% faster and consumes 30% less VRAM than its predecessor. By replacing traditional Convolutional Neural Networks with a transformer-based model, the company aims to deliver reduced ghosting, enhanced detail, and improved stability in rendered scenes.nvidia dlss 4

With well-known games like Alan Wake 2, Cyberpunk 2077, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and Star Wars Outlaws in the forefront, 75 games and apps will support Multi Frame Generation at launch. Furthermore, it is anticipated that more than 50 games will incorporate transformer-based DLSS functionality that works with all GeForce RTX hardware.

DLSS 4 marks another milestone in Nvidia’s journey of enhancing gaming performance. Following the introduction of DLSS 3 in 2022 and the AI-powered Ray Reconstruction in DLSS 3.5 last year, Nvidia continues to expand its ecosystem, with over 600 games and applications now supporting RTX technologies.

As the RTX 50 Series GPUs prepare for their January launch, DLSS 4 promises to redefine the boundaries of gaming and rendering performance.

PlayStation Remains Committed to Live Service Games Despite Challenges

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playstation

Despite setbacks with titles like Concord, PlayStation is not stepping away from live service games. In a recent interview with Japanese publication Famitsu (spotted by Insider Gaming), PlayStation Co-CEO Herman Hulst reaffirmed the company’s belief in the model, emphasizing its potential for the future.

“The gaming industry evolves constantly due to factors like technological advancements, emerging genres, and new gameplay methods,” Hulst shared via translation. “Yet, the one constant is the growing demand for exceptional entertainment experiences. This increased attention to gaming has also heightened competition, prompting us to adapt our business for a more sustainable foundation.”

Hulst assured fans that PlayStation remains committed to delivering both live service games and the beloved story-driven, single-player titles that have defined the brand.

Helldivers 2 Sets a Benchmark for PlayStation Live Service Success

As for why PlayStation continues to invest in live service games, Hulst pointed to the success of Helldivers 2. The co-op game from Arrowhead Game Studios demonstrated how live service titles can thrive in today’s market.

“We are gaining valuable insights as we build our capability to create high-quality live service games within Sony Interactive Entertainment,” Hulst explained. “Helldivers 2 attracted a wide player base through consistent content updates, proving the potential of live service models.”

With this blend of single-player narratives and live service innovation, PlayStation is determined to stay at the forefront of the gaming industry.

Also Read: Capcom Announces Onimusha: Way of the Sword at the Game Awards 2024

Capcom Announces Onimusha: Way of the Sword at the Game Awards 2024

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Onimusha

Capcom has officially revived its beloved Onimusha series with the announcement of a brand-new entry titled Onimusha: Way of the Sword. The reveal took place during The Game Awards 2024, showcasing a dark fantasy action game inspired by Soulslike elements. This marks the first new instalment in the franchise since its last mainline release on the PlayStation 2 era, bringing the iconic series to a new generation of gamers.

First Look at Onimusha: Way of the Sword

The debut trailer for Onimusha: Way of the Sword captivated audiences with its gritty visuals and intense atmosphere. The game’s tagline, “A lone samurai steps forth—his blade sharpened, soul anew,” sets the stage for a story-driven experience blending action and dark fantasy.Onimusha: Way of the Sword

Capcom has confirmed that the game is being developed for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam, with a scheduled release window in 2026. The gameplay appears to draw inspiration from popular action RPGs, promising challenging combat mechanics and a rich narrative.

A Legacy Reborn

The original Onimusha: Warlords debuted in 2001 and became an instant classic, praised for its engaging gameplay and cinematic storytelling. A remastered version was released in 2019, introducing the title to a new audience while reigniting interest in the franchise. Fans of the series have long awaited a modern sequel, and Way of the Sword looks poised to deliver a fresh yet nostalgic experience.

Expanding the Onimusha Universe

While Onimusha: Way of the Sword serves as the centrepiece of Capcom’s announcements, the return of the series aligns with the growing trend of reviving iconic gaming franchises. It’s worth noting that Capcom has been actively modernizing its portfolio, with successful reboots of titles like Resident Evil and Monster Hunter.Onimusha: Way of the Sword

With Way of the Sword, Capcom aims to introduce innovative gameplay features while retaining the elements that made the original games beloved classics. From its visually stunning environments to its potential incorporation of Soulslike gameplay, this title is expected to challenge players while immersing them in a rich, atmospheric world.

What’s Next for Onimusha?

With the series’ return, expectations are high for Capcom to deliver a game that balances innovation with nostalgia. Fans can look forward to updates in the coming months as development progresses, including gameplay showcases and story insights.

Also Read: The Game Awards 2024: All Major Announcements and Trailers from the Ceremony

The Game Awards 2024: All Major Announcements and Trailers from the Ceremony

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the game awards 2024

The Game Awards 2024 marked its 10th anniversary with an unforgettable event that set the gaming world abuzz. Hosted by Geoff Keighley, this year’s celebration was a spectacular display of world premieres, thrilling trailers, and game-changing announcements. From long-awaited sequels to innovative new IPs, the show had something for every type of gamer. Here’s a detailed look at all the major highlights from the event.

Thick as Thieves

One of the standout premieres was Thick as Thieves, a stealth-action game by OtherSide Entertainment. Set in an alternate 1910s world brimming with magic and advanced technology, this PvPvE game lets players engage in high-stakes heists against AI guards and rival teams. Although no release date has been confirmed, the game is slated for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.

Shadow Labyrinth

Fans of Pac-Man were in for a surprise with Shadow Labyrinth. This dark reimagining of the franchise combines 2D action-adventure elements with an eerie atmosphere. Starring “the Swordsman” and a mysterious Pac-Man-shaped orb, the game ventures into uncharted territory for the series. Launching in 2025, it will be available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC.


Major Sequel Announcements

The Witcher 4

CD Projekt Red surprised everyone with a breathtaking six-minute trailer for The Witcher 4. This new chapter places Ciri in the spotlight, marking a major departure from Geralt’s story. Promising a gripping narrative and spectacular visuals, the game will remain a single-player RPG, though its release date remains under wraps.

Borderlands 4

Gearbox Software showcased an action-packed trailer for Borderlands 4. With seamless zone travel, chaotic new weapons, and co-op gameplay, this latest instalment is set on the vibrant planet Kairos. Fans can look forward to its release in 2025 for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.

Dying Light: The Beast

The Dying Light franchise evolves with Dying Light: The Beast. This standalone game reintroduces Kyle Crane, now grappling with a mysterious beastly power. Packed with parkour action and intense combat, the game is slated for a Summer 2025 release on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation platforms.


Intriguing New Titles

Midnight Murder Club

This first-person multiplayer thriller pits players against each other in a pitch-black mansion, armed only with flashlights. The game’s beta demo is available until December 22, with an early 2025 release planned for PS5 and PC.

Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet

Naughty Dog closed the show with Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, their fifth franchise. Directed by Neil Druckmann, the sci-fi IP introduces bounty hunter Jordan Mun in a cinematic narrative-driven experience. Expected in 2025, the game will launch exclusively on PS5.

Virtua Fighter

Sega reignited excitement with a teaser for a new Virtua Fighter. Developed by the team behind Yakuza, more details will be unveiled on December 13 during a dedicated showcase.


Expansion Packs and Ports

Elden Ring: Nightreign

FromSoftware unveiled Elden Ring: Nightreign, a co-op spin-off featuring a dynamic, randomized world. It’s set to release in 2025 across multiple platforms, including PS4, PS5, Xbox, and PC.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Square Enix announced the PC port of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, launching on January 23, 2025. It includes enhanced graphics, mod support, and no DLC, as the developers shift focus to the trilogy’s third installment.

The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered

Coming to PC on April 3, 2025, The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered offers improved visuals and exclusive modes, coinciding with the release of the HBO show’s second season.


New Franchises and Surprises

Project Robot

Fumito Ueda, known for Shadow of the Colossus, teased Project Robot, a collaborative effort with genDesign and Epic Games. While specifics remain scarce, the anticipation is palpable.

Split Fiction

Hazelight Studios’ Split Fiction is the next must-play co-op adventure, following the success of It Takes Two. Scheduled for March 6, 2025, the game features two developers navigating a world of their own creation.

Squid Game Unleashed

Netflix expanded into mobile gaming with Squid Game Unleashed, launching December 17, ahead of Squid Game 2. Available to non-subscribers for a limited time, it delivers survival-themed gameplay inspired by the hit series.

In addition to these major announcements, the show also featured reveals for numerous other games, including:

  • Ninja Gaiden RageBound
  • One Move Away
  • Slay the Spire 2
  • Dave the Diver in the Jungle
  • SteelPaws
  • Tales of Shrine: A Lord of the Rings Game
  • Stalcraft X Operations
  • Kyora
  • Rematch
  • Steel Hunters
  • Blackfrost: The Long Dark 2
  • Tekken 8
  • Turok: Origins
  • Palworld
  • Wuthering Waves
  • Dungeon Fighter: Arad World
  • Stage Fright
  • Double Dragon Revive
  • Screamer
  • Den of Wolves
  • Zenless Zone Zero
  • Sonic Racer Crossworlds
  • Crimson Desert

The Game Awards 2024 was a truly unforgettable event, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity within the gaming industry. With so many exciting projects on the horizon, the future of gaming looks brighter than ever.

Also Read: The Game Awards 2024 Full Winners List: Astro Bot Shines Bright, New Game Trailers Ignite Excitement

The Game Awards 2024 Full Winners List: Astro Bot Shines Bright, New Game Trailers Ignite Excitement

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the game awards 2024

As the curtain closes on 2024, the gaming industry came together to celebrate its most remarkable achievements at the Game Awards 2024. Hosted by the ever-charismatic Geoff Keighley, the event lived up to its reputation, featuring a mix of heartfelt speeches, dazzling performances, and jaw-dropping world premieres. Fans were treated to thrilling announcements, including Borderlands 4, The Witcher 4, and Mafia: The Old Country, setting the stage for an exciting year ahead.

The spotlight of the evening was undoubtedly on Astro Bot, which took home the coveted Game of the Year award. Leading the nominations with seven entries, the game emerged victorious in four categories, showcasing its brilliance in innovation, storytelling, and gameplay mechanics.

Other notable winners included Metaphor: ReFantazio and Balatro, both securing three awards each and Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, which bagged two accolades. Meanwhile, Black Myth: Wukong was recognized as the Best Action Game, adding a significant feather to its cap.

This year, the Game Awards highlighted the gaming industry’s diverse achievements, from blockbuster titles to indie innovations. Balatro, a standout debut indie game, not only won Best Independent Game but also claimed the Best Mobile Game award. The ceremony also emphasized accessibility, with Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown winning the Innovation in Accessibility category, reflecting the industry’s growing focus on inclusivity.

Winners of the Game Awards 2024

Game of the Year

  • Astro Bot – WINNER
  • Balatro
  • Black Myth: Wukong
  • Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree
  • Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
  • Metaphor: ReFantazio

Best Game Direction

  • Astro Bot – WINNER
  • Balatro
  • Black Myth: Wukong
  • Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree
  • Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
  • Metaphor: ReFantazio

Best Narrative

  • Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
  • Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
  • Metaphor: ReFantanzio – WINNER
  • Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2
  • Silent Hill 2

Best Art Direction

  • Astro Bot
  • Black Myth: Wukong
  • Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree
  • Metaphor: ReFantazio – WINNER
  • Neva

Best Score and Music

  • Astro Bot
  • Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth – WINNER
  • Metaphor: ReFantazio
  • Silent Hill 2
  • Stellar Blade

Best Audio Design

  • Astro Bot
  • Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
  • Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
  • Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 – WINNER
  • Silent Hill 2

Best Performance

  • Hannah Telle, Life is Strange: Double Exposure
  • Briana White, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
  • Humberly González, Star Wars Outlaws
  • Luke Roberts, Silent Hill 2
  • Melina Juergens, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 – WINNER

Innovation in Accessibility

  • Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
  • Diablo IV
  • Dragon Age: The Veilguard
  • Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown – WINNER
  • Star Wars Outlaws

Games for Impact

  • Closer the Distance
  • Indika
  • Neva – WINNER
  • Life is Strange: Double Exposure
  • Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2
  • Tales of Kenzera: Zau

Best Ongoing Game

  • Destiny 2
  • Diablo IV
  • Final Fantasy 14
  • Fortnite
  • Helldivers 2 – WINNER

Best Community Support

  • Baldur’s Gate 3 – WINNER
  • Final Fantasy 14
  • Fortnite
  • Helldivers 2
  • No Man’s Sky

Best Independent Game

  • Animal Well
  • Balatro – WINNER
  • Lorelei and the Laser Eyes
  • Neva
  • UFO 50

Best Debut Indie Game

  • Balatro – WINNER
  • Animal Well
  • Manor Lords
  • Pacific Drive
  • The Plucky Squire

Best Mobile Game

  • AFK Journey
  • Balatro – WINNER
  • Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket
  • Wuthering Waves
  • Zenless Zone Zero

Best VR/AR Game

  • Arizona Sunshine Remake
  • Asgard’s Wrath 2
  • Batman: Arkham Shadow – WINNER
  • Metal: Hellsinger VR
  • Metro Awakening

Best Action Game

  • Black Myth: Wukong – WINNER
  • Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
  • Helldivers 2
  • Stellar Blade
  • Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2

Best Action/Adventure Game

  • Astro bot – WINNER
  • Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
  • Silent Hill 2
  • Star Wars Outlaws
  • The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom

Best RPG

  • Dragon’s Dogma 2
  • Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree
  • Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
  • Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
  • Metaphor: ReFantazio – WINNER

Best Fighting Game

  • Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising (Arc System Works/Cygames)
  • Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero (Spike Chunsoft/Bandai Namco)
  • Marvel vs Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics (Capcom)
  • MultiVersus (Player First Games/WB Games)
  • Tekken 8 (Bandai Namco) – WINNER

Best Family Game

  • Princess Peach: Showtime!
  • Astro Bot – WINNER
  • Super Mario Party Jamboree
  • The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
  • The Plucky Squire

Best Sim/Strategy Game

  • Frostpunk 2 (11 Bit Studios) – WINNER
  • Age of Mythology: Retold (World’s Edge/Forgotten Empires/Xbox Game Studios)
  • Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess (Capcom)
  • Manor Lords (Slavic Magic/Hooded Horse)
  • Unicorn Overlord (Vanillaware/Sega/Atlus)

Best Sports/Racing Game

  • F1 24 
  • EA Sports FC 25 – WINNER
  • NBA 2K25
  • Top Spin 2K25
  • WWE 2K24

Best Multiplayer Game

  • Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
  • Helldivers 2 – WINNER
  • Super Mario Party Jamboree
  • Tekken 8
  • Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2

Best Adaptation

  • Arcane
  • Fallout – WINNER
  • Knuckles
  • Like a Dragon: Yakuza
  • Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft

Most Anticipated Game

  • Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
  • Ghost of Yotei
  • Grand Theft Auto VI – WINNER
  • Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
  • Monster Hunter Wilds

Content Creator of the Year

  • CaseOh – WINNER
  • IlloJuan
  • Techno Gamerz
  • TypicalGamer
  • Usada Pekora

Best Esports Game

  • Dota 2
  • Counter-Strike 2
  • League of Legends – WINNER
  • Mobile Legends: Bang Bang
  • Valorant

Best Esports Athlete

  • 33 – Neta Shapira
  • Aleksib – Aleksi Virolainen
  • Chovy – Jeong Ji-hoon
  • Faker – Lee Sang-hyeok – WINNER
  • ZyWoO – Mathieu Herbaut
  • ZmjjKk – Zheng Yongkang

Best Esports Team

  • Bilibili Gaming (League of Legends)
  • Gen.G (League of Legends)
  • NAVI (CounterStrike)
  • T1 (League of Legends) – WINNER
  • Team Liquid (DOTA 2)

Also Read: Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8: Crossplay, Photo Mode, and 12 New Subclasses Coming in 2025

Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8: Crossplay, Photo Mode, and 12 New Subclasses Coming in 2025

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Larian Studios has unveiled details about Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8, the game’s final significant update. This update, set for release in 2025, will introduce exciting features such as crossplay, a photo mode, and 12 new subclasses, significantly expanding the RPG experience. Here are major updates coming in Bladur’s Gate 3 Patch 8.

Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 8: All You Need to Know

Crossplay and Multiplayer Enhancements

With Patch 8, Baldur’s Gate 3 will implement cross-platform multiplayer, allowing players across PC, Mac, Xbox, and PlayStation to seamlessly join games. Using the Larian Network, players can create crossplay lobbies, invite friends from different platforms, and access multiplayer progression across all systems.bg3 cross play

Photo Mode: Creativity Unleashed

The highly requested Photo Mode will enable players to capture stunning in-game moments with an array of options. From customizable camera angles and lens settings to filters, frames, and stickers, this feature lets adventurers get creative. Options for character poses, facial expressions, and even cinematic adjustments provide endless possibilities for capturing the perfect scene.

12 New Subclasses: Expanding Role-Playing Options

Each of the game’s 12 base classes will receive a new subclass, enhancing customization and gameplay. These subclasses bring fresh abilities, animations, and homebrewed elements:

  • Bard – College of Glamour: Charm enemies and empower allies with Mantle of Inspiration and Majesty.
  • Barbarian – Path of Giants: Gain immense strength with Giant’s Rage and dominate with powerful throw attacks.
  • Cleric – Death Domain: Wield necromantic magic, including corpse explosions and the Toll the Dead cantrip.
  • Druid – Circle of Stars: Transform into Starry Forms—Archer, Chalice, or Dragon—for diverse strategies.
  • Paladin – Oath of the Crown: Protect allies with Divine Allegiance and lead battles with Righteous Clarity.
  • Fighter – Arcane Archer: Combine magic and marksmanship, banishing foes and blinding enemies.
  • Monk – Drunken Master: Use alcohol to recover Ki, disorient foes, and deliver devastating strikes.
  • Ranger – Swarmkeeper: Command swarms like bees or moths to deal damage and even teleport.
  • Rogue – Swashbuckler: Embody pirate-like agility with moves like Fancy Footwork and disarming enemies.
  • Sorcerer – Shadow Magic: Excel in darkness with Shadow Walk and summon the Hound of Ill Omen.
  • Warlock – Hexblade: Forge magical pacts to summon cursed weapons and raise defeated enemies.
  • Wizard – Bladesinging: Blend swordplay and magic with the elegant Bladesong ability.

Modding and Beyond

Although Patch 8 marks the end of major updates, Larian remains committed to supporting the modding community. With official mod tools launched in September, over 3,000 mods have been created, downloaded more than 70 million times. The studio plans further enhancements for modders, enabling players to craft their own narratives within the Baldur’s Gate 3 universe.

Stress Test and Bug Fixes

Ahead of the patch’s full release, a stress test will roll out on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation in early January. Larian aims to identify and address potential issues while refining the game’s cinematics, visuals, and bug fixes—even ensuring details like Shadowheart’s hair dye remain intact during romantic cutscenes.

Baldur’s Gate 3 is now available for 20% off on PS Store, Steam and GOG. The game is released on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, GeForceNow, Mac and PC.

Also Read: Rumor: PlayStation Event Expected This December – Here’s What We Know