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Best Gaming Phones Under Rs 15000 in India January 2024

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best gaming phones

If you are looking for best gaming phones under Rs 15000, then you are in the right place. Read on to find out the best gaming devices under Rs 15K in this new year.

Gaming on mobile phones has come a long way with evolving technology and today, we can run high-end graphic games on our smaller screens anywhere. Every smartphone brand offer gaming devices with varying prices and performances’ each having unique blend of strengths and weaknesses. However, given the constraints of price, you really need to keep an eye on features of cheaper mobiles which gives the utmost performance you want.

A gaming phone under Rs 15000 in India is not a liable choice when you choose to game on such smaller devices. Finding a gaming phone at such price in India can be challenging, but it’s possible to find a few options which can handle the games with minimal lag and good performance which justifies the rate and your needs. Down below, you will find the list of best gaming phones under Rs 15000 in January 2024.

Best Gaming Phones under Rs 15000 in January 2024

IQOO Z7s 5G

best gaming phones under Rs 15000
Image via IQOO

This phone comes with a Snapdragon 695 processor, a smooth 90Hz AMOLED display, a 64MP OIS-enabled main camera, Android 13, and a bunch of other cool features, all priced at under Rs 15000. The 8GB variant comes with 256 GB ROM costs more than the base model.

The iQOO Z7s 5G, priced at under Rs 15,000, mirrors the design of its older sibling, the iQOO Z7 5G, and holds an IP54 water-resistant rating. Powering its graphics is the Adreno 619 GPU, with support for up to 8GB of Extended RAM 3.0. The smartphone features an Ultra Game Mode, streamlining gaming features like PiP and background calls into a unified space. The latest software update enhances customization on the iQOO Z7s 5G, introducing options such as UI color, monochrome icons, AQI Card, and Phone Cooling.


Poco X5

gaming phones under Rs 15000
Image via IQOO

Poco X5 boasts 5G compatibility, powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 SoC, and features a vibrant 120Hz AMOLED display, among other impressive specifications.

This phone presents a 6.67-inch AMOLED display featuring a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, Full HD+ resolution, 1200nits peak brightness, and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection for added durability. Under the hood, it runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 processor coupled with an Adreno 619 GPU. The smartphone is available with up to 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and storage options going up to 256GB of UFS 2.2 for ample storage space.


Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 5G

best gaming mobiles
Image via Redmi

Available at an attractive price of Rs 14,999, the Redmi Note 12 5G is a budget-friendly 5G smartphone featuring a 6.67-inch Super AMOLED display. The screen boasts Full HD+ resolution, a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, 1200nits peak brightness, Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection, and a convenient punch-hole cutout. Driving its performance is the Snapdragon 4+ Gen 1 SoC, accompanied by up to 8GB of RAM and a generous 256GB of internal storage.

Running with MIUI 13 skin overlay, the device is assured of two Android OS updates and three years of security patches. Security-wise, it incorporates a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. To keep you powered throughout the day, the smartphone is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery that supports 33W fast charging.


Tecno Pova 5 Pro

mobile phones under rs 15000
Image via Tecno

The Pova 5 Pro boasts a spacious 6.78-inch display, offering Full HD+ resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate for an enhanced viewing experience. The standout feature of the Tecno POVA 5 Pro lies in its rear design, which showcases vibrant LED lights for added visual appeal.

Equipped with multi-colored LED lights on the rear, this device illuminates during gaming sessions, incoming calls, notifications, and low-battery warnings. Termed the ‘Arc Interface’ by Tecno, the phone offers two color choices – Dark Illusion and Silver Fantasy. The Tecno Pova 5 Pro display delivers crisp text reproduction, and its 120Hz refresh rate guarantees excellent responsiveness. Running on the Android 13-based HiOS v13.1, the Pova 5 Pro offers a modern and efficient user interface. Ensuring sustained power throughout the day, the smartphone comes with a robust 5,000mAh battery that supports 68W fast charging.


vivo T2x 6GB RAM

best gaming phones under 15000
Image via ViVO

The Vivo T2x stands out as one of the most affordable 5G-enabled smartphones in the country. The Vivo T2x features a 6.58-inch LCD display with a Full HD+ (2408 × 1080 pixel) resolution and a waterdrop notch. Under the hood, the all-new T-series smartphone sports an octa-core MediaTek Dimensity 6020 processor that brings with it an integrated Mali G57 GPU. It packs up to 8GB LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB UFS 2.2 storage.

The Vivo T2x comes equipped with a dual-rear camera setup that includes a 50MP primary shooter, a 2MP depth sensor, and an LED flash. For selfies and video calls, it offers an 8MP front shooter. The Vivo T2x is backed by a 5000mAh battery unit and 18W fast charging support


Note: The above mentioned mobiles are not listed based on any rankings. All mobiles offer more storage and RAM variants which are priced slightly higher than Rs 15,000.

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Suriya’s Upcoming Movie Kanguva Team Unveils Bobby Deol’s First Look as Udhiran

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kanguva
Image via Studio Green

Animal movie gave Bobby Deol the much-awaited fame for him. His outstanding performance in the movie, even with a minimal runtime and no talking made viewers crazy. After delivering such mass show, he is gearing up for this next project as Kanguva team unveils Bobby Deol’s first look as Udhiran.

Celebrating Bobby Deol’s 55th birthday, the makers of the film have just revealed his initial appearance. Bobby Deol took to Instagram to share a fresh poster, featuring him as Udhiran in Kanguva. The poster showcases Bobby Deol amidst a cluster of women, donned in blood-stained armor, exuding a battle-worn demeanor. With long flowing hair and a grown-out beard, the actor captures the essence of his character. Bobby Deol added a caption to the post to express his excitement which reads, “Ruthless. Powerful. Unforgettable,” accompanied by a dagger emoji with the hashtags “Udhiran ” and “Kanguva.”

Bobby Deol Turns 55, Announces his Next Project as Udhiran in Suriya Starrer Kanguva

Bobby Deol is making his Tamil debut with the film Kanguva. In December 2023, he revealed that his role in this Suriya-starrer pushes him beyond his typical comfort zone. “This role is definitely out of my comfort zone, also I don’t know the language, so that is again totally out of my zone. I can’t even learn Tamil in a month or two, but I will work on it,” he told India Today.

The much-anticipated Suriya-starrer, Kanguva, is being produced on a grand scale by Studio Green in association with UV Creations. Since its inception, the film has consistently heightened expectations, and the recent revelation of its release in 10 languages in 3D format has further fueled excitement within the trade circles.

Directed by Siva, a renowned creator of several blockbuster hits, the movie stars Suriya and Disha Patani in the lead roles. Additional details about the star-studded cast will be unveiled in the coming days. The cinematography for the film is in the capable hands of Vetri Palanisamy, while the musical score is being composed by the acclaimed ‘Rockstar’ Devi Sri Prasad. Notably, Suriya has reportedly concluded filming for the project, adding to the growing anticipation surrounding Kanguva.

Recently, Suriya, the lead character in the film has announced that his shooting portion of the film had ended. He mentioned that everyone in the sets were filled with positivity while thanking the director Siva. The release date of this film is yet to be announced.

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Best Games of 2023: Baldur’s Gate 3, Spider Man 2, Alan Wake 2, RE 4, Sea of Stars and More

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best games released in 2023

Best Games of 2023: It’s another year of excellence for the gaming industry and the time has come for it to step down while marking a vibrant year for gamers. We are about to enter a new year and what’s better than celebrating the end of 2023 commemorating the best releases this year? Every developer has put in their best to stay on top of their title and we can’t deny their work seeing the output they have given this year. We had witnessed an apparently never-ending stream of AAA blockbusters.

Arguably, the PS5 and Xbox Series X generation officially began this year with the development of Unreal Engine 5 support and the growing number of developers discontinuing support for devices from previous generations. In this copy, we have compiled a list of the best game releases of 2023.

List of Best Games Released in 2023

Note: The below list is not based on any ranking factors

Baldur’s Gate 3

  • Genre: Adventure, RPG, Strategy
  • Developer: Larian Studios
  • Metacritic Rating: 96
  • Available Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Mac
  • Buying Link: Steam (PC), PlayStation5, Xbox Series X/S

This game requires no special introduction and you can’t deny its spot on the best games of this year. The third game in the Baldur’s Gate series from Larian Studios elevates the role-playing game to new levels. Baldur’s Gate 3, an open-world game, takes place in the Forgotten Realms, a setting inspired by Dungeons & Dragons.

The game received the ‘Game of The Year’ award at The Game Awards 2023. It was first released for PC and PS5 while the Xbox version was prior to TGA 2023.

Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

  • Genre: Action-adventure
  • Developer: Nintendo EPD
  • Metacritic Rating: 96
  • Available Platforms: Nintendo Switch
  • Buying Link: Amazon, Nintendo

An iconic series of action-adventure video games by Nintendo, The Legend of Zelda is one of the company’s most recognized franchises. The franchise is recognized for its inventive game design, incorporating elements such as open-world exploration, non-linear advancement, and mechanics based on the passage of time.

In Nintendo’s Tears of the Kingdom, ample room is provided for the spotlight to shine on every bit of ambition that rightfully deserves attention. As the player, you once again assume the role of Link, embarking on an exploration of the vast world of Hyrule in a quest to locate Zelda and thwart the destructive plans of Ganon, the Demon King, aimed at bringing chaos to the world.

Spider-Man 2

spider man 2
Image via Insomniac Games
  • Genre: Action-adventure
  • Developer: Insomniac Games
  • Metacritic Rating: 90
  • Available Platforms: PlayStation 5
  • Buying Link: Amazon, PlayStation

Spider-Man is one of the most loved superhero films and it is indeed the best superhero game out there. In 2023, Insomniac Games delivered the fantastic game that Marvel fans hoped for. The game has been nominated for several categories at ‘The Game Awards 2023’ but it is disheartening to see that this game does not get any awards, however, it won the hearts of the gamers.

Demonstrating that there are still numerous uncharted territories to explore and challenges to confront in the realm of Spider-Man, even after the release of the original game and Miles Morales, is no small achievement. This is particularly noteworthy given the familiarity of the exhilarating experience of swinging through Manhattan at breakneck speeds. Exciting to engage with and thoroughly enjoyable, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 stands as the ultimate reinterpretation of the comic book world’s greatest everyman superheroes.

Alan Wake 2

2023 best games
Image via Epic Games
  • Genre: Survival horror
  • Developer: Remedy Entertainment
  • Metacritic Rating: 89
  • Available Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
  • Buying Link: Epic Games (PC), PlayStation, Xbox

In straightforward terms, Alan Wake 2 stands as Remedy Entertainment’s most outstanding game to date. Despite being a developer renowned for crafting timeless classics such as Max Payne, Control, and the original Alan Wake, this sequel elevates their achievements, delivering a masterful blend of suspense and narrative. With a compelling combination of dual campaigns seamlessly complementing each other, fan-pleasing story beats, and a seamless integration of multimedia concepts pushing the series into survival-thriller realms, Alan Wake 2 offers an enlightening and unforgettable gaming experience.

The game unfolds through the perspectives of two protagonists and their distinct journeys. FBI Agent Saga Anderson is the first, compelled to investigate a mysterious cult linked to Wake’s novels in the small town of Bright Falls, Wash. The second protagonist is Alan Wake, endeavoring to liberate himself from the seemingly eternal loop of the Dark Place where he has been confined for the past 13 years. As their narratives progress, the two protagonists’ seemingly separate journeys gradually converge, revealing a deeper connection than either had initially perceived.

Resident Evil 4 Remake

  • Genre: Survival horror
  • Developer: Capcom
  • Metacritic Rating: 91
  • Available Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC, iOS, Xbox Series X/S
  • Buying Link: Amazon (PS5), Steam (PC), Xbox

The best installment in the Resident Evil series receives a noteworthy upgrade that impeccably honors the original’s esteemed legacy. Capcom, known for its successful streak of Resident Evil remakes, achieves a pinnacle with RE4, even though its emphasis on action somewhat diminishes the spine-chilling atmosphere found in earlier entries. Retaining the original game’s narrative, players assume the role of U.S. Agent Leon S. Kennedy, tasked with rescuing the President’s daughter, Ashley Graham, from the dual threats posed by the Los Illuminados cult in Spain and the mysterious Las Plagas virus.

The remake introduces enhancements to combat dynamics, granting Leon the ability to move and fire simultaneously, along with the option to block with his knife. The game’s map undergoes a comprehensive update, featuring additional areas and adversaries for Leon to navigate. A notable improvement lies in Ashley’s increased agency, transforming her into more of a collaborative partner for Leon, rather than a constant burden. Collectively, these refinements and additions elevate RE4 into a more captivating adventure, marking a zenith for contemporary survival horror.

Starfield

best games of 2023
Image via Bethesda
  • Genre: Action RPG
  • Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
  • Metacritic Rating: 83
  • Available Platforms: Xbox Series X/S, Windows
  • Buying Link: Amazon (Xbox Series X), Steam (PC)

In a highly anticipated debut in 2023, Starfield achieved remarkable success by selling an impressive 6 million copies within the initial 24 hours of its release, solidifying its position as Bethesda’s most successful game to date.

While facing criticism from some who argue it falls short of the stature set by previous Bethesda Game Studios’ icons like Skyrim or Fallout 4, Starfield stands as a monumental space adventure. It intricately weaves cascading gameplay systems, tailor-made for those who’ve harbored dreams of immersing themselves in the worlds of Star Trek or Firefly. Whether constructing personalized starships, embarking on explorations of uncharted realms, resolving mining disputes on Mars, or even assuming the role of a galactic superhero, Starfield unfolds a myriad of opportunities to craft and uncover thousands of captivating stories.

Assassin’s Creed Mirage 

  • Genre: Action-Adventure
  • Developer: Ubisoft Bordeaux
  • Metacritic Rating: 76
  • Available Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Ubisoft Connect (and Amazon Luna via Ubisoft+). Coming to select iOS devices in 2024.
  • Buying Link: Amazon – Standard Edition PS5, Deluxe Edition for PS4 & PS5, Xbox Series One and X|S

Assassin’s Creed Mirage returns the beloved franchise to its origins, delivering one of the standout installments in the enduring series. Set in Baghdad during the year 861 AD, the game harkens back to the stealth-focused era, immersing players in the art of quiet assassinations. Alongside an innovative combat system, Mirage reintroduces a revamped concept of parkour and introduces a new eagle vision mode. Despite a somewhat mixed reception for the protagonist Basim Ibn La’Ahad in comparison to his predecessors, the game garnered acclaim for its expansive open world and engaging parkour system.

Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty

Despite being an expansion pack, Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty introduces enough new content to earn its place on any list of the best video games in 2023.

This expansion provides a sense of closure to Cyberpunk 2077, a game that underwent a significant redemption arc in the years following its initial release in a less-than-optimal state. With Phantom Liberty, Cyberpunk 2077 concludes with a flourish as CD Projekt Red sets its sights on the sequel, delivering a captivating story within a tightly constructed spy-thriller adventure. Phantom Liberty showcases Cyberpunk 2077 at its zenith, offering a comprehensive overhaul of the original game that leaves a lasting impression, culminating in a thrilling narrative of espionage and violence as the credits roll.

Final Fantasy 16

best games 2023
Image via Square Enix
  • Genre: Action RPG
  • Developer: Square Enix Creative Business Unit III
  • Metacritic Rating: 87
  • Available Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5
  • Buying Link: Amazon, PlayStation Store

Considered one of the standout role-playing games of 2023, Final Fantasy XVI is a must-try for PlayStation 5 owners.

In this installment, players assume the role of Clive Rosfield, embarking on a quest for revenge against those who have harmed his family in the fictional world of Valisthea. The game boasts a vast and intricately detailed open world, featuring diverse locations such as dungeons, forests, and towns, while presenting a range of adversaries, including demons and other monsters.

Final Fantasy XVI garnered acclaim for its dynamic and fast-paced combat system, coupled with a compelling narrative. To put it succinctly, if you have a penchant for action RPGs, this is an experience you cannot afford to overlook.

Lies of P

  • Genre: Action RPG
  • Developer:Neowiz Games, Round8 Studio
  • Metacritic Rating:80
  • Available Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4 Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One
  • Buying Link: Amazon (PS4), PS Store

Lies of P emerges as a captivating alternative for those grounded when flights to Yharnam are canceled. Undoubtedly influenced by the iconic Soulsborne genre, Lies of P presents a loosely interpreted narrative of The Adventures of Pinocchio, distinguished by its grim yet visually stunning Belle Epoque-infused art direction. While drawing inspiration from Bloodborne, Lies of P steers clear of mere imitation, introducing a weapon system that encourages experimentation, formidable enemies demanding adaptable tactics, and an exquisitely crafted world ripe for exploration.

Similar to Jedi: Survivor, Lies of P falls into the challenging yet beloved subgenre of “soulslike” games, characterized by combat and an isolated, somber atmosphere reminiscent of FromSoftware’s Dark Souls series. While its combat and tone may seem familiar given the subgenre’s decade-long dominance, Lies of P brings a fresh perspective by reinventing The Adventures of Pinocchio. The game introduces a unique twist with its branching narrative, driven by specific contextual moments rooted in P’s distinctive role as the sole puppet with the ability to lie.

Sea of Stars

  • Genre: Role Playing
  • Developer: Sabotage Studio
  • Metacritic Rating: 87
  • Available Platforms:PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Switch
  • Buying Link: Steam, PS Store, Xbox

The age of indie gaming has not only fostered bold new ideas in an industry that tends to shy away from risks but has also bestowed upon us the invaluable gift of creators infusing their unique perspectives into titles that served as inspirations during their formative years.

Sea of Stars, while drawing from 16-bit influences, reveals itself as a remarkably modern game at its core, injecting a fresh twist into timeless gameplay mechanics. Taking place in the universe of its earlier retro-homage, 2018’s The Messenger, Sabotage Studio has ingeniously crafted an original narrative featuring six playable party members. The emphasis lies on intricate puzzle mechanics and turn-based combat, marking a significant departure from its predecessor. The combination of engaging combat and exquisite pixel-based art direction results in a delightful time capsule experience.

Hogwarts Legacy

best games of 2023
Image via Avalanche
  • Genre: Action RPG
  • Developer: Avalanche Software
  • Metacritic Rating: 84
  • Available Platforms: PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
  • Buying Link: Amazon

With an impressive sales record of over 12 million copies within its initial two weeks and a staggering revenue of USD 850 million, Hogwarts Legacy firmly establishes itself as one of the best-selling games of 2023.

Taking place nearly a century before the events depicted in the Harry Potter novels, the game has garnered acclaim from both critics and players alike. Its merits include engaging combat, exceptional world design, intricately detailed characters, and a diverse array of content. For those who have longingly awaited their letter from Hogwarts, which never arrived, immersing themselves in this open-world game offers the closest experience to fulfilling the dream of being a Hogwarts student.

Dead Space

2023 best games
Image via EA
  • Genre: Survival Horror
  • Developer: Motive Studio
  • Metacritic Rating: 89
  • Available Platforms: PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S
  • Buying Link: Amazon 

The 2023 Dead Space remake stands as a faithful recreation of the 2008 survival horror classic, seamlessly resurrecting the bone-chilling narrative of the original with a contemporary infusion of graphics and exciting gameplay mechanics. Widely praised for its stunning visuals, exceptional atmospheric audio engineering, and enhanced gameplay, the remake goes beyond by introducing new elements like zero-gravity mechanics, a revamped dismemberment system, and an innovative weapon upgrade system. The culmination of these improvements propelled the Dead Space remake to become the second-highest-selling video game in the US in January 2023, attracting both new and returning players alike.

Motive’s extensive remake surpasses expectations, not merely preserving the edge-of-your-seat terror from the 2008 horror-genre classic but elevating it with meticulous upgrades. The remake maintains a persistent sense of dread, ensuring you remain on your toes throughout the experience. Furthermore, the striking graphics are so intense that you might find yourself wanting to keep a bucket nearby for an added layer of immersion.

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

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microsoft

Leading American Multinational tech giant, Microsoft is reportedly downsizing its video game workforce by 1,900 employees, as revealed by sources to IGN. The reduction in workforce amounts to approximately 8 percent of the entire Microsoft Gaming division, which encompasses a total of around 22,000 employees.

It’s been a little over three months since the Activision, Blizzard, and King teams joined Microsoft. As we move forward in 2024, the leadership of Microsoft Gaming and Activision Blizzard is committed to aligning on a strategy and an execution plan with a sustainable cost structure that will support the whole of our growing business. Together, we’ve set priorities, identified areas of overlap, and ensured that we’re all aligned on the best opportunities for growth.

As part of this process, we have made the painful decision to reduce the size of our gaming workforce by approximately 1900 roles out of the 22,000 people on our team. The Gaming Leadership Team and I are committed to navigating this process as thoughtfully as possible. The people who are directly impacted by these reductions have all played an important part in the success of Activision Blizzard, ZeniMax and the Xbox teams, and they should be proud of everything they’ve accomplished here. We are grateful for all of the creativity, passion and dedication they have brought to our games, our players and our colleagues. We will provide our full support to those who are impacted during the transition, including severance benefits informed by local employment laws. Those whose roles will be impacted will be notified, and we ask that you please treat your departing colleagues with the respect and compassion that is consistent with our values.

Looking ahead, we’ll continue to invest in areas that will grow our business and support our strategy of bringing more games to more players around the world. Although this is a difficult moment for our team, I’m as confident as ever in your ability to create and nurture the games, stories and worlds that bring players together.

Phil

The staff reductions coincide with Microsoft’s substantial $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard, the proprietor of Call of Duty, and the departure of its controversial former leader, Bobby Kotick. Notably, Microsoft has now surpassed a valuation of over $3 trillion, making it only the second company in history to achieve this remarkable financial milestone.

In conjunction with the workforce reductions, Blizzard president Mike Ybarra has opted to depart from the company. Microsoft’s game content and studios president, Matt Booty, explained in an internal memo, “As many of you know, Mike previously spent more than 20 years at Microsoft. Now that he has seen the acquisition through as Blizzard’s president, he has decided to leave the company.”

Microsoft is set to announce a new president for Blizzard next week as part of its restructuring plan. Alongside this, Allen Adham, Blizzard’s chief design officer and one of the company’s co-founders, is also departing. Matt Booty, Microsoft’s game content and studios president, acknowledged Allen’s significant impact on Blizzard’s games, stating, “His influence will be felt for years to come, both directly and indirectly as Allen plans to continue mentoring young designers across the industry.”

As a result of these changes, Blizzard’s previously revealed survival game has been canceled. However, Booty assured that Microsoft will be reallocating some of the team members working on the canceled project to contribute to one of several promising new projects currently in the early stages of development at Blizzard.

Here’s Matt Booty’s internal memo in full:

Blizzard team,

As you may have read in Phil’s note, today is a challenging day as we say goodbye to some of our colleagues. This is a difficult process, but it is one that will best enable Blizzard and Xbox to deliver ambitious games for our players on more platforms and in more places than ever before. We are moving forward with a more focused strategy across Microsoft Gaming that sets us up for sustainable growth and aligns our talent and resources to our top priorities.

In addition to the events today, Mike Ybarra and I have been discussing his future and some of his personal passions for some time. As many of you know, Mike previously spent more than 20 years at Microsoft. Now that he has seen the acquisition through as Blizzard’s president, he has decided to leave the company. As we move forward, we will continue to build on the positive momentum that Mike created and strive to continue exceeding the expectations of Blizzard’s players. I want to thank Mike for his leadership and for his partnership and counsel since the deal closed. I know he plans to travel and spend more time with his family. We wish him the very best.

Additionally, Allen Adham, Blizzard’s Chief Design Officer, is leaving the company. As one of Blizzard’s cofounders, Allen has had a broad impact on all of Blizzard’s games. His influence will be felt for years to come, both directly and indirectly as Allen plans to continue mentoring young designers across the industry.

The new Blizzard President will be announced next week.

What Happens Next

Those who are impacted are being informed in meetings starting today. Given the challenging day ahead, anyone who is set up to work from home and would prefer to, can work remotely today. Due to time zones and local holidays, some impacted employees in APAC and EMEA will be informed later this evening and into early next week. After the notifications are complete, leaders will bring their teams together. Please be mindful of this process in your conversations and outreach during these next few days.

Details on Today’s Actions

The changes announced today reflect a focus on products and strategies that hold the most promise for Blizzard’s future growth, as well as identified areas of overlap across Blizzard and Microsoft Gaming. Today’s actions affect multiple teams within Blizzard, including development teams, shared service organizations and corporate functions. As part of this focus, Blizzard is ending development on its survival game project and will be shifting some of the people working on it to one of several promising new projects Blizzard has in the early stages of development.

No matter the reason behind these decisions, they are never made lightly. Changes like these affect the lives of colleagues and friends, and we are all grateful for their meaningful contributions to Blizzard and its world class lineup of games. As Phil stated, we will provide our full support to those who are impacted during the transition, including severance benefits informed by local employment laws.

I understand that this is a challenging time and that it can be a lot to process. I haven’t met many of you yet, and hearing about these decisions from me may be difficult. Today, I am here on Blizzard’s Irvine campus, and I am personally committed to supporting you as teams and individuals, keeping you informed, and approaching this transition period with care and transparency.

Thank you for working through these changes with us. Together we will continue to create amazing games for our players, with a culture that empowers everyone to be their most authentic selves and do their best work.

– Matt

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New State Mobile January 2024 Update Comes with New Weather Mode, Weapon and More

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Krafton has released New State Mobile January month update on Thursday. The new update has brought in new changes, features, new weapon and more. New State Mobile update is now available to download for both Android and iOS users.

The January month update brings in a new weather shift for players for an exciting gameplay experience. Players will now have to get familiar with this new mode and strategize their gameplay to win the match which results in giving additional perks. The update also comes with a new 7.62mm Ammo DMR which is specialized in causing more damage on headshots among the existing ones. Here is the breakdown of all things arrived in the game as part of New State Mobile January Month update.

New State Mobile January Month Update (v0.9.59) Patch Notes

New Weather Shift: TROI Twilight

new state mobile january update
Image via New State Mobile

  • A red glow descends on TROI
  • You will get to experience this new weather as play in TROI map and the occurance rate of the weather will be adjusted based on the gameplay data.
  • Achieving victory under the red sky comes with a special 50% tier point bonus to boost your progress while failing will  losses incur a 20% higher deduction in tier points than the standard rate.

New weapon: Dragunov

pubg new state
Image via New State Mobile

  • Uses 7.62mm rounds.
  • This gun delivers superior headshot damage compared to other DMRs.
  • Available across all New State maps
  • Customize your Dragunov with a range of attachments, including scopes, magazines, muzzles, and cheek pads
  •  The Dedicated Tactical Stock customization adds the following changes to the weapon:
    • Increased ADS speed
    • Stable recoil motion
    • Stock slot unavailable

Gunplay Balancing

new state mobile
Image via New State Mobile

  • Wider Hip Fire Spread: Hip firing with specific weapons, including AR, SMG, and LMG, will now exhibit a wide spread.
    • AR: Hip fire spread increased by 6%.
    • SMG, LMG: a 10% wider hip fire spread.

TROI Session Balancing:

  • TROI sessions now feature a more dynamic Blue Zone, with its tempo increased by 10%.
  • Both the waiting time and shrinking speed of the Blue Zone have been accelerated for heightened intensity.

Human vs AI Mode: 

  • AI enemies are now stronger.
    • AI deals increased damage.
    • AI travels faster.

Battle Royale Season 13

  • The eagerly awaited Battle Royale Season 13 is officially open
  • Tier Reset: Brace yourself for a reset in your tier, aligning with your final tier from the previous season.
  • Lobby Welcome: Upon entering the lobby, anticipate a detailed season summary and the exciting revelation of rewards earned during the previous season, setting the stage for your Season 13 journey. Get ready for intense battles and epic victories.

For a detailed view of the patch notes, read the official blogpost, linked here.

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Apple’s New Policy Now Allows Others to Release their Own Storefronts on the App Store

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apple

Leading premium smartphone manufacturer brand, Apple today announced new policies for global app delivery, allowing developers to submit a single app capable of streaming their entire game catalog. This new policy enables devs to launch their own digital storefronts within the app store similar to what Google has been doing all these years.

In the an official blogpost, the company stated the developers now have the flexibility to create a unified app that can stream their entire game collection. This updated approach enables developers to showcase to iOS users the range of plug-ins, mini-games, streaming games, and chatbots within their app. Moreover, the revamped policy incorporates the utilization of Apple’s in-app purchase system, allowing users to make payments for services like cloud streaming or AI chatbot subscriptions.

Apple has revamped its app store policies, aligning them with Google’s approach. This change enables developers, including companies like Nvidia and Xbox with cloud streaming services, to create dedicated catalog-style apps on iOS. Previously, Apple’s policies posed challenges for services like Xbox Cloud Gaming to be accessible on iOS. Furthermore, Xbox’s Phil Spencer has emphasized Microsoft’s ambition to establish a mobile games app store to rival both the Apple App Store and Google Play. It is unclear where Xbox mobile app store releases and is yet to be determined.

Apple’s policies on third-party app stores have been a contentious issue, featuring prominently in the ongoing legal battle with Epic Games and aligning with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) objectives for open markets. In response to the DMA, Apple has unveiled specific updates for European Union iPhone users. These changes include granting iPhone users in the EU the option to sideload apps and permitting full versions of Google Chrome and Firefox to operate on iPhones.

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Pokemon Company Might Take Action Against Palworld: Official Statement Raises Concerns Over Intellectual Property Use in the Controversial Game

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parlworld game
Image via Pocket Pair

The Pokemon Company, jointly owned by Nintendo, issued an official statement regarding Palworld (unofficially described as Pokemon with Guns). The company said that it had not given any permission to “another company’s game released in January 2024.” The company’s statement did not mentioned or noted Palworld in particular, but the message it wrote clearly points out the newly launched survival game which bears a similar resemblance to Pokemon.

Pocket Pair’s survival craft game, Palworld which released last week has created a sensation in the gaming industry. The game has topped the Steam’s charts in terms of sales and player count. However, several players started to notice many similarities between this game and Pokemon. After a week of its release, the company made an official statement regarding Palworld and now it is making a buzz in the community as the game is really making waves in the industry.

Pokemon Company Intends to Investigate Palworld, Issues a Public Statement Without Taking its Name

palworld pokemon
Image via Pocket Pair

The official statement from the Pokemon Company reads, “We have received many inquiries regarding another company’s game released in January 2024,” The Pokemon Company stated. “We have not granted any permission for the use of Pokémon intellectual property or assets in that game. We intend to investigate and take appropriate measures to address any acts that infringe on intellectual property rights related to the Pokémon. We will continue to cherish and nurture each and every Pokémon and its world, and work to bring the world together through Pokémon in the future.”

Before making this statement, the Palworld developer, Pocketpair, emphasized that its game closely aligns with titles like Ark Survival Evolved and Vanaheim rather than Pokemon. Palworld’s massive success had its struggles too, the team disclosed that they’ve been facing death threats since the game’s launch on January 19.

In an interview with Automaton, Pocketpair’s CEO, Takuro Mizobe, conveyed that the team underwent legal scrutiny, and no legal actions have been taken against the company for any infringement.

Mizobe stated, “We approach game development with utmost seriousness, and we unequivocally have no intentions of infringing upon the intellectual property of other companies.”

The Pokemon Company has initiated actions against modders who replaced Palworld’s Pals with Pokemon, and Nexus Mods has decided not to host Pokemon mods for Palworld due to concerns about potential legal actions from Nintendo’s legal team.

Palworld was launched on January 19, 2024 for PC, Steam, Xbox Series X/S and is now topping the steam’s charts. The game has reached an incredible milestone, with 8 million copies sold just within one week. Moreover, the game is now leading the SteamDB’s charts of Most played games with highest peak count in 24 hours and current player count. It stands second to PUBG in terms of all player count on Steam.

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Animal OTT Release: Netflix to Stream Ranbir Kapoor Starrer on 26 Jan With an Extended Cut

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animal ott

Update 12:00 AM: There is no extended cut for the movie. Netflix will stream the theatrical version of the movie with original runtime as mentioned in the censor certificate.

Ranbir Kapoor Starrer, Animal film is finally confirmed for OTT release. Leading streaming giant Netflix confirmed the release of Animal OTT after a long wait and speculations on social media. The film is all set to hit your mobiles, TVs screens on this Republic Day via Netflix. Additionally, the movie is going to premier on OTT with an extended cut, adding an extra runtime of 8 minutes to the original movie sparks anticipation and excitement among fans.

Recent reports suggest an extended version of the film, rumored to include a new scene featuring lead actress Rashmika Mandanna, is set to add depth to the storyline. Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, confirming the extended OTT version in a recent interview, expressed regret for previous edits and shared intentions to utilize the additional minutes for a more comprehensive storytelling experience.

Animal OTT Release Date Confirmed: Where to Watch Animal?

As mentioned before, Animal OTT release is slated for 26 January 2024 with an extended cut. Viewers can stream the movie on Netflix.

Name of the Movie Animal
OTT Platform Netflix
OTT Release Date January 26
Cast Ranbir Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol,Triptii Dimri.
Language Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada

 

Brief Summary of Plot: In “Animal,” Ranvijay “Vijay” Singh grapples with familial strife, propelled by his father Balbir’s neglect and betrayal. After returning to Delhi, Vijay navigates a complex web of revenge and deception, uncovering a family vendetta and confronting assassins. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of heartbreak and redemption as Vijay reconciles with his dying father, shedding light on the strained roots of their relationship in this gripping tale of family, vengeance, and forgiveness.

Debuted on December 1, Animal movie had become a blockbuster hit at the box office having collected more than Rs 900 Crore worldwide. Setting numerous box office records for a Hindi film in both domestic and international markets, Animal secured its place as the eighth highest-grossing Indian film of all time. The film garnered an impressive 19 nominations, including Best Film, at the 69th Filmfare Awards. Animal has achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the first A-rated Indian film to join the 10 million club in America.

Despite receiving polarizing reviews branding Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s film Animal as misogynistic, violent, and vulgar, the audience’s engagement has propelled it to become one of the most talked-about films in recent memory.

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Krafton Releases BGMI 3.0 Update Podcast Unveiling New Mode, Features, Events and More

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bgmi 3.0 update

Krafton, the developer behind Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), a widely acclaimed battle royale title in India, provided a sneak peek into the upcoming BGMI 3.0 update during a recent podcast. The podcast, featuring the esteemed Team Soul members—Mortal, Viper, Ronak, and Owais, with 8Bit Thug as the host—delved into the anticipated changes and fresh features awaiting players in the forthcoming update.

The imminent update is poised to introduce an array of exciting elements, poised to reshape the game dynamics and elevate the overall Battle Royale gaming experience. Noteworthy additions include the introduction of X-Suits that dynamically change colors upon impact, alongside a collection of new outfits and weapon skins.

Moreover, the update boasts a new voice pack featuring Hardik Pandya, as well as an assortment of emotes. The key highlights of the BGMI 3.0 Update, disclosed in the podcast, are as follows:

BGMI 3.0 Update Brings in New Mode, Features, and Weapons

1. Shadow Blade: This innovative mode introduces the Shadow Blade, a state-of-the-art melee weapon designed for both offensive and defensive maneuvers. Players can engage enemies with swift attacks and execute short-range dashes. The Shadow Blade also provides a brief period of shot-blocking functionality when targeted by enemies.

2. Skythether Hook: A tool allowing players to traverse buildings and structures efficiently.

3. Respawn Battle: Players can now recall their teammates twice in a match, either through the recall tower or a recall battle. In the respawn battle, eliminated players engage in a battle to secure a respawn, eliminating the need to rely solely on teammates.

4. Proxy Scout: This deployable decoy mimics the player, serving as an effective reconnaissance tool by confusing enemies with its movements depicted on the mini-map. The Skytether device enables users to grasp onto surfaces and glide over shorter distances.

5. One Shot Double Elimination: Bolt-action rifles have been enhanced to penetrate through both enemies, allowing players to achieve double eliminations with a single, precisely placed shot. Drivers now have the ability to administer healing while actively operating their vehicles.

6. Remodelling of Existing Structures: Notable structural changes have been made to buildings across Military, Pochinki, and Georgopol in Erangel. Players can explore these new structures to devise fresh strategies for their battles.

Additionally, the update heralds the commencement of a new season, Cycle 6 Season 16, and the progression of the A4 Royale Pass. A special event centered around Valentine’s Day is set to be introduced in the game later in February.

When will BGMI 3.0 Update Release

While the developers have not disclosed the exact launch date of the BGMI 3.0 update, it is expected to be released between January 23 and January 27, 2024. The update will initially roll out for Android users, with iOS users receiving it later in the day. Stay tuned for further details.

Also Read: Skyesports League 2024, a Unique City-Based BGMI Tournament Featuring Sixteen Teams Announced, Set to Take Place in March 24

Skyesports League 2024, a Unique City-Based BGMI Tournament Featuring Sixteen Teams Announced, Set to Take Place in March 24

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skyesports league 2024

In 2024, Skyesports, a leading esports tournament organizer in South Asia, is set to host one of the first major BGMI esports tournaments. The Skyesports League 2024, one-of-a-kind IP, showcases the top esports teams from different cities across India competing for glory. The tournament is slated to take place as an on-ground event in Mumbai, India, in March 2024.

The Skyesports League distinguishes itself as a unique IP, where the top esports teams from different cities strive for glory. The 2022 edition of Skyesports, featuring BGMI, was canceled due to the Indian Government banning the game just a few days before the scheduled event. Now, with the tournament making a comeback after a year and a half hiatus, it is poised to be the focal point for all BGMI enthusiasts in the country. Here is a roundup of everything announced so far about the BGMI Skyesports League 2024.

BGMI Skyesports League 2024 Announced with Sixteen Competing Teams

The Skyesports League 2024 is a unique tournament, where each team will represent major cities in India, and this time, they have expanded the roster to include more cities. A total of 16 teams are set to participate in the upcoming Skyesports League 2024, and the list is as follows:

  • Ahmedabad Avengers
  • Bengaluru Crushers
  • Bhubaneswar Titans
  • Chennai Clutchers
  • Delhi Dragons
  • Guwahati Giants
  • Hyderabad Nawabs
  • Kochi Kings
  • Kolkata Tridents
  • Lucknow Pushers
  • Mumbai Aces
  • Pune Pros
  • Punjab Pinnacles
  • Rajasthan Strikers
  • Ranchi Warriors
  • Vizag Gladiators

Each city in the Skyesports League 2024 will be represented by a distinct esports organization. The tournament organizers have meticulously selected these organizations based on their past results, contributions to the ecosystem, and commitment to delivering localized content for the esports event.

Scheduled for March 2024 in Mumbai, the Skyesports League 2024 is a multi-day on-ground esports extravaganza that will welcome a live audience. Fans will have the unique opportunity to cheer on their favorite teams, including the home squad, Mumbai Aces, in person. Additional details about the event will be unveiled soon.

Enigma Gaming has already secured their slot in the Skyesports League 2024 after an impressive victory at the Pova Cup Season 4 – BGMI, an event organized by Skyesports. However, the city that Enigma Gaming will represent remains undisclosed at this point.

While the organizers have yet to announce the other esports teams invited to the tournament, this information will be revealed in the coming days. Additionally, details about the prize pool are yet to be announced. The entirety of the tournament will be streamed live on the Skyesports YouTube Channel. Stay tuned for further updates.

Also Read:Gladiators Esports Bids Adieu to its BGMI Roster After 6 Months of its Inception