A few years ago, the metaverse was everywhere. It promised to redefine the way we live, work, and socialize in digital spaces. Headlines declared it the future of the internet, with tech giants pouring billions into investments and companies racing to stake their claims in virtual worlds. But fast-forward to today, and the buzz has somewhat faded. As the spotlight shifts toward generative AI and real-world tech challenges, the metaverse seems to have taken a backseat.
Yet, behind the scenes, the metaverse is quietly evolving. While the notion of full interconnected virtual worlds may still be years away, practical use cases are gaining traction. This blog post explores the fundamentals of the metaverse, covering its basics, history, and layers. Also, it sheds light on the current state of the metaverse market and where it’s headed. Stick with us!
What Is the Metaverse?
The metaverse is one of the major advances in digital technology and experiences. In essence, the metaverse refers to the convergence of virtual and physical space. Convergence is accessed through computers and enabled by immersive technologies, including augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality.
Often referred to as the next iteration of the internet, the metaverse is designed to be a shared, continuous space where people can interact. In the metaverse, individuals, represented by digital avatars, can navigate various digital experiences. Whether it’s attending a virtual meeting, shopping online, or playing games, people can carry their identity and even their digital money with them across platforms in the metaverse.
A Short Look at the History of Metaverse
The idea of the metaverse has been around for decades. The term was first used in 1992 by author Neal Stephenson in his science fiction novel, Snow Crash. In the book, Stephenson described the metaverse as a virtual world where people interact through digital representations. The metaverse enabled people to gain status based on their digital skills. This early vision introduced the concept of avatars and influenced later technologies simulating 3D digital environments.
Another major influence was the 2011 novel Ready Player One by Ernest Cline. The novel described a future where people escape their daily struggles by entering a VR-based world called The Oasis, using headsets and haptic gloves. These devices allowed users to feel virtual interactions. The concept of touch-based feedback has become a key building block for real-world metaverse experiences.
Beyond fiction, the technology underlying the metaverse began to develop as far back as the 1960s. There have also been earlier waves of metaverse excitement, such as in the early 2000s with Second Life and again in the 2010s with the introduction of the first VR headsets. While both fell short of expectations, they helped push the technology forward and paved the way for today’s more advanced virtual environments.
Polaris Market Research examines the metaverse market, predicting robust growth from 2025 to 2034. Their latest report reveals the market is expected to reach USD 4,798.77 billion by 2034, registering a CAGR of 46.3% during the projection period.
Advancements in immersive technologies, including augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality, are a key enabler of this robust growth. Additionally, the expansion of digital engagement and the development of digital economies are contributing to market development.
Understanding the Seven Layers of the Metaverse
The “seven layers of the metaverse” is a concept popularized by entrepreneur and game designer Jon Radoff. It provides a framework for understanding the various components of the metaverse and their interrelationships. These layers include:
Experience: This is the end-user layer, representing the actual interactions and activities within the metaverse. It’s the layer where users engage with virtual worlds, games, social spaces, and other applications. The layer is the culmination of all the other layers working together to provide a seamless and engaging experience.
Discovery: This layer helps users find and explore the metaverse. It includes several features such as search engines, social media integration, and recommendation systems. These features guide users to new experiences, communities, or content.
Creator Economy: The creator economy layer focuses on tools and platforms that allow users to create and monetize content within the metaverse. It includes virtual item creation tools, 3D modelling software, and marketplaces for buying and selling digital assets.
Spatial Computing: It deals with the ability to understand and interact with 3D spaces, both virtual and physical. It leverages technologies such as 3D mapping, objection recognition, and spatial audio to provide a more realistic and immersive experience.
Decentralization: This layer is crucial for the metaverse’s vision of a Web3 future, which emphasizes a shift away from centralized control. Decentralization aims to empower creators and users by distributing control and ownership through technologies like blockchain and cryptocurrencies.
Human Interface: The human interface layer focuses on how users interact with the metaverse. It encompasses augmented reality glasses, virtual reality headsets, haptic feedback systems, and other input/output devices.
Infrastructure: This layer provides the foundational hardware and software that enables the metaverse. It includes powerful processors, high-speed internet, cloud computing, and advanced network technologies. In essence, the infrastructure is the backbone that supports the entire metaverse ecosystem.
Here’s a look at the key platforms bringing the vision of the metaverse to life:
Decentraland: Decentraland is a decentralized virtual world built on the Ethereum blockchain. It enables users to own virtual land, construct structures, and interact with others in a persistent virtual environment. The platform is recognized for its emphasis on user-generated content and its decentralized governance structure.
The Sandbox: The Sandbox is another blockchain-based metaverse. It allows users to create, own, and monetize their gaming experiences and virtual real estate. The Sandbox features a user-friendly game maker and a marketplace for buying and selling virtual assets.
Roblox: Roblox is a popular online gaming platform that offers a vast collection of user-generated games and virtual worlds. It allows users to create avatars, play games, and even develop their own experiences.
To Sum It Up
In conclusion, the metaverse represents a new layer of digital interaction. As technology advances, its applications across education, healthcare, retail, and enterprise continue to expand. By bridging physical and digital worlds, the metaverse holds the potential to reshape how we connect, create, and engage in the years to come.
(This article is a guest publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Scope Magazine. Scope magazine will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article.)
Every city has its own flavour – some are known for their food, others for their festivals. But there’s one thing we all share no matter where we’re from – the joy of childhood games. Think of those long afternoons playing carrom with a grandparent or a serious round of ‘Pachisi’ with cousins. Each move was more than fun – it was a masterclass in strategy and patience.
Today, those timeless games have found a new life online. We’re entering an exciting new era – where nostalgia meets innovation through skill-based gaming.
Traditionally, games weren’t just about passing time – they sharpened our minds, taught us to think ahead and build patience. Whether it was choosing when to move your piece or figuring out how to block your opponent, every decision mattered.
Now, those same brain-teasing moments are back – just on our phones. The setting may have changed but the essence remains – it’s still about thinking smart and playing with purpose.
Giving Classics a Modern Twist
Platforms like Zupee are reimagining age-old favourites for today’s world. Take Ludo for example – a game that once echoed through our courtyards is now lighting up mobile screens. And the thrill hasn’t changed.
Zupee’s version of Ludo goes beyond chance – it’s about skill, strategy, timing and making calculated moves. It brings back the same lesson our elders taught us – “Luck is good but skill is better”.
Today’s games aren’t just for fun – they build focus, decision-making and quick thinking. That’s the real magic of modern gaming – it’s fun, it’s competitive and it keeps your brain buzzing.
Play with Purpose
But like all good things, balance matters. Zupee builds that into its core – whether it’s fairness, safety or encouraging responsible play. Because games should energise – not exhaust.
Rooted in the Past – Built for the Future
Skill-based gaming is more than just entertainment – it’s a bridge between where we come from and where we’re going. It brings tradition and technology together and keeps our culture alive in a whole new way.
So here’s to smarter play, deeper engagement and rediscovering joy – one thoughtful move at a time.
The idea of the metaverse is a completely interactive, virtual world that is powered by technologies such as AR, augmented reality (AR) and VR (VR) as well as AI, (AI) and blockchain has quickly transformed from science-fiction to a strategic investment goal for businesses across the world. Between 2023 and 2026 the market for the metaverse is predicted to see a significant growth driven by the increasing technology advancements, increasing digital usage as well as a growing desire of virtual experience.
Current Market Snapshot (2023)
In 2023 the metaverse market was worth around US$ 68.5 billion. Big tech companies like Meta (formerly Facebook), Microsoft, Epic Games along with Roblox Corporation have been investing heavily in metaverse projects that range from gaming ecosystems, virtual offices, and digital marketplaces.
The increasing popularity of blockchain-based virtual assets, NFTs (non-fungible tokens), and decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms have also been a key factor in the expansion of metaverse economies, opening up new possibilities for creators, brands and digital users.
Expected Growth (2023-2026)
According to forecasts from industry experts according to industry forecasts, it is predicted that the metaverse market size is projected to increase to USD 270 billion in 2026 and registering an increase in the compound annual rate (CAGR) of 41 percent in the forecast time. A number of factors are the driving force behind this growth:
Widespread use of VR/AR devices
The lower cost and growing availability of AR/VR headsets has increased the need of immersive experiences.
Gaming and Entertainment Dominance
Virtual concerts as well as interactive experience have exploded in popularity, and established entertainment as the most popular application sector in the metaverse.
Corporate and Educational Virtual Spaces
Post-pandemic models of work-from-home and remote learning options have seen a surge in the demand for online meeting spaces, collaboration workspaces online classrooms, and collaborative workspaces.
Growing Investment in Digital Assets
The increase in NFTs and cryptocurrency integration as well as virtual sales of land have led to completely new digital markets in metaverse platforms.
Here’s an illustration of how the market for metaverses is expected to expand over the next few years:
Description:
The market is predicted to grow gradually between the USD 68.5 billion by 2023 to USD 227 billion in 2026. The consistent upward trend highlights the growing investment and consumer enthusiasm for metaverse products, platforms and services in the short but extremely rapid time.
Regional Market Insights
North Americacurrently tops the metaverse market in the world due to its early technological adoption and substantial investments from Silicon Valley-based firms.
Asia Pacificis predicted to see the most rapid growth, fueled by an increasing technology-savvy, young population as well as a creative gaming culture and initiatives by the government to support digital infrastructure.
As hardware becomes less expensive and software ecosystems become more mature and software ecosystems mature, and software ecosystems mature, the metaverse will be gradually integrated into daily life such as virtual retail stores, and metaverse medical consultations to AI-driven digital assistants and social networks that are decentralized.
The timeframe from 2023 until 2026 is expected to transform, providing opportunities for entrepreneurs, creators as well as consumers to contribute to the creation of a new digital frontier.
Final Thoughts
The metaverse isn’t just a distant notion; it’s now an evolving reality with huge market potential. For developers, businesses and investors, knowing the metaverse’s market dimensions, trends, and growth driving factors is essential to being ahead in the coming phase in the evolution of digital technology.
Ever found yourself stuck where you just want a quick mental break without opening social media?
You’re not alone. These small pockets of time, scattered throughout the day, are exactly where hypercasual games are making their mark, especially among busy working professionals.
The Time-Crunch Generation…
The truth is that professionals today are constantly racing against the clock!!!
Isn’t it?
Deadlines, meetings, targets—it never ends.
And in this fast-paced work culture, not everyone has the time (or energy) to commit to long gaming sessions. That’s where hypercasual gaming swoops in like a quick coffee break—easy, instant, and oddly satisfying.
These games don’t need tutorials, don’t require previous gaming experience, and don’t suck you into endless plots or complicated missions. Just tap, swipe, relax—and you’re good to go.
Work stress is real. Between tight deadlines and overflowing inboxes, our brains crave short, rewarding distractions. Hypercasual games offer exactly that—no mental load, just pure bite-sized fun. Studies have shown that small gaming breaks can actually improve alertness and make it easier to refocus when you return to work.
It’s like a reset button for your brain, but without the guilt of scrolling social media endlessly.
One-Hand, One-Minute Gameplay
Most hypercasual games are designed for smartphones—no consoles, no controllers. You could be stuck in traffic (hopefully not driving), standing in a long queue, or on a short break between meetings—these games are made for such moments.
This kind of design makes them the perfect go-to for people who want a little dose of fun without any commitment.
Whether you’re in HR, marketing, IT, or sales—everyone deserves a harmless little escape now and then.
Discovered by Many, Played Quietly
What’s also interesting is how many professionals have found their favorite gaming platforms quietly—while looking for ways to recharge during the day. Some platforms offer dozens of hypercasual games that don’t require downloads or too much storage. Platforms like Playzub, which offer a wide range of hypercasual games without heavy downloads, are quietly gaining popularity among working professionals—in cafes, coworking hubs, or even during commutes.
These games are slick, easy to launch, and often surprise you with how relaxing they can be. With leaderboard options and subtle challenges, they add just enough spice to keep you coming back without any pressure.
You may think it’s all just for fun, but quick games can also boost hand-eye coordination, reflexes, and even light decision-making skills. For professionals juggling multitasking every day, these mini-games act as a soft workout for the brain—keeping it agile and alert.
Plus, they can serve as creative breaks too. Sometimes, your best idea doesn’t come from a brainstorming session—it comes after a silly round of bouncing a ball or solving a visual puzzle in two taps.
The Balance We All Crave
Work-life balance doesn’t always mean long vacations or weekend getaways. Sometimes, it’s the tiny things that count. A peaceful cup of tea. A 3-minute game that lets you breathe. That feeling of a small win in between a chaotic workday.
Hypercasual gaming is rising because it respects your time—it fills in the blanks without demanding attention. It’s light, fun, and exactly what our overstimulated brains need at times.
So next time you feel a little fried after a meeting or stuck in a mental block, maybe try one of these little digital escapes. You might just find yourself feeling refreshed—and maybe a bit more productive too.
Wheel World is an upcoming open-world game where you ride a bike that’s haunted by ghosts, all while trying to save the world. It’s made by Messhof, the same team behind Nidhogg and Flywrench, and while it’s been in the works for a while, we finally got a release date during the
Platform: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Release Date:
A new trailer shows off some of the cool places you’ll explore as the main character, Kat, rides her ghostly bike. The story is all about Kat trying to save a universe that’s falling apart, and she’s got the help of ancient biking spirits. To do that, she needs to win races and other biking challenges against quirky characters, while collecting legendary bike parts for a world-saving ritual called The Great Shift.
You’ll also be able to customize Kat’s bike to fit your riding style and explore the vibrant open world to find secrets.
If you’re curious, there’s a Steam demo available right now.
The midpoint for the game year has begun now coming to a close with a number of new games and summer gaming conferences to anticipate. It appears that June belongs to Nintendo and the Switch, as the debut of its Switch 2 marks a new chapter for Nintendo. It’s true that the Switch 2 isn’t doing anything that’s completely different, however the console does come with some innovative hardware concepts as well as a robust lineup of games in its initial few months, and an impressive third-party support plan for the coming era of Nintendo.
In addition, PC, PlayStation, and Xbox gamers won’t be kept out to dry. PlayStation gamers will be able to explore the post-apocalyptic world through Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, Xbox owners will be able to play for free as Zenless Zone Zero arrives, and on PC, Stellar Blade is a chic adventure that has plenty of substance. We’ll take a closer review of everything that’s to be released this month.
Deltarune Chapters 3 and 4
Date of release: June 5 Platforms: PC
There are likely to be plenty of intriguing games available for Switch 2. Switch 2, but the most bizarre will come from Deltarune Chapters 3 and 4 by Undertale creator Toby Fox. The first two chapters in the series of turn-based RPGs The new games follow the story of Kris, the main character. Kris who lives in of a universe parallel to Undertale.
Mario Kart World
Date of release: June 5 Platforms: Switch 2
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has been a huge success in its time with Nintendo through the Switch time period. The lifetime sales for the game currently are 68.20 million units at the time of its release on March 31, 2025. And it appears that Mario Kart World has its work cut out for them. The next installment in the series of kart racing is looking like it will propel the series into new heights, considering that it’s the Switch 2 launch game features an all-new free Roam mode, an impressive lineup of racers, as well as returning Battle Mode to help draw players in.
In just eight months, the new Nintendo console will be available for purchase this month. Although it’s not a major change from the original however, it’s a step in the right direction. Switch 2 does offer a couple of new ideas with its new design. Alongside improvements such as increased memory, bigger screen, and more powerful inside hardware. You can be prepared to test game controls with the brand-new Joy-Con 2 controller, and those who want to connect online, you can go into the GameChat lobby.
Switch 2 releases from third-party sources
Although Switch 2 Switch 2 is launching with only one first-party exclusive game–Mario Kart World, it will also see several third-party titles arrive on the console. It will include a number of critically acclaimed games that weren’t released for the Switch 1, like From Software’s Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, Split Fiction, and many more. We’ll discuss a few important games below, however If you’re looking for a general review of what’s coming, you can look through our guide to all Switch 2 launch game.
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Date of release: 5 June Platforms: Switch 2
Would Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour be a free-pack-in game that would have helped start the system? It’s a matter of debate, even if Nintendo considers it an “interesting product” to justify the $10 price, but for those who is looking for the bundle of minigames and tutorials and quizzes that are focused upon Nintendo’s Switch 2 hardware, this is a good option to consider.
Cyberpunk 2077
Date of release: June 5 Platforms: Switch 2
CD Project Red’s sandbox of sci-fi action will be able to take “full benefit” of Switch 2’s capabilities, according to the creator, and this version will also feature the superb addition Phantom Liberty.
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Street Fighter 6
Release date: 5 June Platforms: Switch 2
There’ll be two versions of Capcom’s famous fighting game available the players can choose a base version or an upgraded version that includes extra DLC fighters.
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Zenless Zone Zero
Date of release: June 6, Platforms: Xbox Series X|S
If you’ve played any HoYoverse’s games for free and you’re aware of what you can anticipate in the event that Zenless Zone Zero lands on Xbox Series X|S this month. There’s high-energy combat as well as anime-inspired images and an active marketplace that encourages players to invest real money to purchase new characters to play around the streets in New Eridu. Beyond this, it’s an entertaining adventure that features vibrant characters and an unmistakable retro vibe to the gameplay that makes for a delightful urban RPG that is a fantasy.
Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster
Date of release: 5 June Platforms: Switch 2
There’s going to be plenty of games to play as you get the Switch 2 arrives, but If you’re looking to play an RPG on it and you’re interested, then you may be interested in the new version game Bravely Default. The game is dubbed Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD and exclusive to Switch 2, the game comes with a number of upgrades, such as the user interface has been redesigned and a complete overhaul of the graphics and a brand new speed-forward feature in the event, two brand-new minigames, as well as a variety of quality-of-life upgrades.
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Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma
Date of release: June 5 Platforms: Switch 2, Switch
A different Switch 2 launch title, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma is the upcoming entry in the wildly popular role-playing farm-sim franchise. Set in a fantasy setting which is inspired by Japanese folklore It casts players as an Earth Dancer as a mysterious handyman who is tasked with restoring the natural environment by constructing farms, fixing villages, as well as battling the odd monster or two on RPG-style adventures. If this sounds like something you would enjoy but you’re not yet upgrading to Switch 2 and you’re looking for a new game, the great news is that the game will be available on the original Switch console.
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Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut
Date of release: 5 June Platforms: Switch 2
It is still regarded as one of the top games from the Yakuza franchise, Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut will come with cutting-scenes that are brand new and a brand-new multiplayer mode when it makes the game’s Switch 2 debut.
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Hitman: World of Assassination
Date of release: June 5 Platforms: Switch 2
All over the world in just 80 slays? That’s definitely possible with Hitman since the entire trilogy of games featuring Agent 47 on his globetrotting adventures includes The Switch 2 in its crosshairs. This bundle comes with an entire World of Assassination saga, and a plethora of post-launch content to keep you occupied for quite a while.
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Splitgate 2
Date of release: June 6 Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
Splitgate 2 brings the fun of shooting portals to a whole new level! With a smoother and more fluid movement, new arenas and factions that change as you play it’s a thrilling experience. You can also design your own maps to have endless entertainment.
MindsEye
Date of release: June 10 Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
A well-crafted, story-based game by an GTA veteran that blends excitement with wide-ranging game-playing.
Dune: Awakening
Date of release: June 10 Platforms: PC
The Dune world Dune appears to be a perfect match for the open-world survival genre, given that the harsh and rocky planet of Arrakis is a tough setting to reside in. The game is delayed a bit between May 20 and June 10th The game will let players survive and ultimately succeed as you develop your technology up and search for the unique “spice” Melange.
Stellar Blade
Date of release: June 11 Platforms: PC
One of last year’s top action games of last year, Stellar Blade, finally arrives on PC this month. The game was initially launched on PS5 the game blends Sekiro-inspired combat, with stylish special attacks, and tells a tale about the struggle to reclaim Earth of genetically-engineered apex predators referred to in the Naytibas. As Eve is the only survivor of a failed attempt to save the remaining remnants humans, players will have to find out what actually occurred to the earth hundreds of years ago.
The Alters
Date of release: 13 June Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
It’s a good thing that War of Mine developer 11 Bit Studios is back and this time they’re exploring the sci-fi genre by releasing a game that will bring players face-to-face with the choices of your past, or to put it in a more precise way it’s the choices of the astronaut Jan Dolski’s. In a deserted globe, Dolski has only three days to get his mobile base in motion before the star that is closest to him vaporizes his body, and without the manpower required to do this and relying on an innovative technology that allows him to create replicas. Each “Alter” represents a different version of him, shaped by his choices in life. Dolski must manage each of them if they don’t wish to be confronted with a deadly dawn in this genre-mixing survival game. Alters will be available on Game Pass for Xbox and PC. Alters are also a one-day release via Game Pass for Xbox and PC.
FBC: Firebreak
Date of release: 17 June Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
With all the live-service games competing for your attention and time Remedy Entertainment’s FBC: Firebreak might just be the ray of fresh air you need in this crowded space. The Control spin-off isn’t trying to make players to experience FOMO for not committing all of your energy and time to it. Instead, the creator wants to give gamers a fun co-op shooter anytime they want to playing. It’s priced at a nifty $40 and up, the game will be available through subscription options like Xbox Game Pass, as also PlayStation Plus for members of the Premium and Extra level.
Date Everything
Date of release: 17 June Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S. Switch
Date Everything definitely does live up to its name it allows you to love every single thing in the household of your protagonist With a handy set of “Dateviator” glasses that let you look at seemingly inanimate objects in their actual form and woo them. From the oven and the sofa there’s plenty of potential players in the game. A number of famous voices will also be heard acting actors like Troy Baker, Matthew Mercer, Laura Bailey, and Debra Wilson will assist in bringing different roles to life.
Tron: Catalyst
Date of release: 17 June Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch
With a brand new Tron film on the way this is the perfect opportunity to look at the Grid yet again. Created through Bithell Games, Tron: Catalyst is the sequel to visual novels Tron: Identity, but with a completely new style of. Moving to an isometric, action-based format, the narrative style that was present in Identity can now be enhanced with more emphasis on combat and exploration while you explore different areas of the city on foot or riding an Light Cycle.
Raidou Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army
Date of release: 19 June Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch 2, Switch
One of the less well-known entries of the Shin Megami Tensei franchise, Raidou Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army brings up-to-date features to version 2006 of the PS2 game for consoles. The game features updated graphics and gameplay that is completely revamped. A real-time action RPG with real-time combat as well as more than 120 demons to hunt The revamped gameplay is now more similar in appearance that Devil Summoner 2: Raidou Kuzunoha and. King Abaddon. Also, you can expect new graphics, improved visuals, voice acting, a revamped user interface, more areas, and a variety of quality-of-life improvements.
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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate
Date of release: June 24 Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
If the latest release of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants Unleashed and Tactical Takedown were not enough then you could purchase Splintered Fate in June for Xbox. It’s an action-oriented game that features the legendary quartet of mutants who live in sewers. It first came out on iOS in 2023. for those who missed it, it has many of its ideas from Hades. It’s an enjoyable roguelite experience but it’s not able to attain the same level of excitement as the main inspiration but there’s still a great moment to be had.
Calamity Angels: Special Delivery
Date of release: June 26 (Japan) Platforms: Switch, PS4, PS5
Play the role of an elite delivery agent in a mystical world that includes managing tasks, allies and a charming, chaotic anime.
It’s been a full six year when Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding was first released and, this month, the story that is Sam Porter Bridges continues as his quest to connect the world. Similar to the original game, and the updated Director’s Cut, Sam once again faces a task that is to complete as the game’s protagonist delivers packages through the vast post-apocalyptic terrain, while traversing dangerous terrain while sneaking way past cultists, bandits and creatures who aren’t yet on another side. The game’s Death Stranding 2: On the Beach preview revealed a number of enhancements in the sequel based on a 30 hour session that was that was played out in Kojima Productions in Japan–including better stealth-action gameplay, terrain traversal and boss battles.
Persona 5: The Phantom X
Date of release: 26 June Platforms: iOS, Android
A brand-new Persona 5 spin-off is out in June, but it’s not what you’re expecting.Persona 5: The Phantom X is being released internationally since April 2024 South Korea, China, and Taiwan on mobile devices, and, like the original game, it’s an adventure that features stylish turn-based combat. As Wonder the secondary-year student in the second year of high school at Kokatsu Academy, it’s up to you to find new members of the Phantom Thieves and stop a mysterious force that is aiming to eliminate the notion of desire from humankind.
System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster
Date of release: 26 June Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch
Modernized remaster from the classic 1999 System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster introduces the iconic sci-fi action game to new players in June. Remaster expert Nightdive Studios had originally re-released the game on Steam in 2013 and in this most recent version, players can try to get through the dark hallways in Von Braun’s spaceship. Von Braun spaceship while marveling at the many graphical improvements. Enhances in quality of life, improved animations and character models as well as optimized controller support as well as additional mod support are just a few of the enhancements that have been added.
The internet has been buzzing lately with a new trend #ghiblistyle that’s got both love and backlash. It’s everywhere: dreamy forests, flying castles, and wide-eyed characters popping up on social media like never before. But while fans around the world are calling it a “global tribute” to Hayao Miyazaki’s timeless magic, many artists are seriously unhappy.
Let’s break it down…
On one hand, people are using AI tools to recreate the Studio Ghibli vibe—those soft, emotional, almost nostalgic visuals that we all adore. It’s like the internet collectively decided to celebrate the legend’s legacy in a new, tech-savvy way. A huge number of fans are saying, “Hey, this isn’t about replacing Miyazaki, it’s about showing how much we love his work!” For them, it’s just another form of fan art—only with a digital twist.
But here’s where the controversy kicks in. Professional artists and illustrators, especially those who grew up watching Ghibli films like Spirited Away or Kiki’s Delivery Service and now work in animation, are calling this trend “lazy” and even “disrespectful.” Their main argument? AI didn’t suffer, learn, or grow to create that art—humans did. They feel AI is copying the surface without understanding the soul of Ghibli. And let’s be real, Miyazaki himself has always been vocal about his dislike for AI in art. He once even said that AI lacks heart and that using it in animation is an “insult to life itself.”
So now the question is: Is AI Ghibli a sweet homage or a shortcut that disrespects decades of hard work? The debate is heated, and it’s not going away anytime soon.
One thing’s for sure though—Miyazaki’s magic still touches hearts. The world just can’t stop loving Studio Ghibli, no matter the medium.
In a major boost to India’s gaming ecosystem, South Korean gaming giant KRAFTON—the name behind the wildly popular Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI)—has its eyes firmly set on the Indian market. And it’s not just talk. With $200 million already invested, KRAFTON is actively scouting for more opportunities to invest and even acquire homegrown gaming talent.
But the question remains….
Why India?
According to Sean Hyunil Sohn, CEO of KRAFTON India, it’s the country’s mobile-first gaming culture, rising smartphone usage, and a young, tech-savvy population that make it a hotbed for growth. “It’s the right time for the Indian gaming industry to become sizable and impactful,” Sohn said.
The company’s bullish stance isn’t just based on user numbers. KRAFTON is encouraged by India’s evolving regulatory environment too. Sohn believes India offers a clear, structured approach to guidelines—something that builds confidence in long-term investment.
Despite the country’s gaming market still being smaller compared to global standards, KRAFTON sees massive potential over the next two to three years. Sohn highlighted that India’s youthful energy is exactly what the industry needs, and with the right support from educational institutions and the government, it can become a global game development hub. Institutions like Red Apple Learning are already paving the path for the next generation—offering hands-on training in game development and design, and bridging the gap between raw talent and industry-ready skills. By nurturing creative minds and preparing them for real-world challenges, they’re helping India step confidently into the future of gaming.
But KRAFTON’s strategy isn’t just about money—it’s about passion. Sohn emphasized the desire to partner with creators who are truly committed to the craft of game development.
As the gaming world expands, one thing is clear: India isn’t just playing along. It’s playing to win.
In a bold move that could redefine Indian cinema, filmmaker Vivek Anchalia is all set to release Naisha—India’s first AI-generated feature film—on the big screen this May.
What started as a YouTube project has now evolved into a full-fledged theatrical release, thanks to the buzz around Anchalia’s cutting-edge filmmaking style. Naisha tells a cross-continental love story between two AI-generated characters, Naisha Bose and Zain Kapoor, unfolding across India, France, and Switzerland.
Anchalia’s unique approach involved using advanced AI tools like Runway, Kling, and Pica Labs to create six main AI characters and several locations, all in just eight months. “In the trailer, you’ll see shots of people traveling through different cities and countries—that’s usually something you’d only find in a ₹100 crore film,” he said. “We’re bringing that scale on a tight budget.”
But Naisha isn’t entirely machine-made. Anchalia voiced Zain Kapoor himself and then processed it using ElevenLabs. For the film’s music, he turned to human talent—composer Daniel B George added a human touch with original songs.
With strong interest from distributors, Anchalia is confident that Naisha will enjoy a decent-scale theatrical release. “Some deals are already in place, and we’re in talks with others,” he shared, sounding hopeful and excited.
As AI continues to reshape the creative world, Naisha could mark the beginning of a new chapter in Indian cinema—one where technology and storytelling come together like never before.
The countdown is on — with just three months to go until the release of Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, Konami has given fans a treat by unveiling the game’s opening cinematic on YouTube. And it’s everything long-time fans hoped for, with a modern twist.
At the heart of the new opening is a reimagined version of Cynthia Harrell’s legendary ballad, “Snake Eater.” While it stays true to the original’s classic melody, the updated recording feels noticeably softer, with a subtler bass presence that lends a smoother, atmospheric quality to the track. One thing’s for sure — Cynthia still delivers an unforgettable performance.
Visually, the cinematic takes a fresh direction. Unlike the original’s abstract, almost psychedelic sequences, this new version opts to showcase pivotal in-game moments. Key highlights include an intense face-off between Snake and The Boss, offering a glimpse of the emotional weight and cinematic flair players can expect.
For those who loved the original’s interactive touches — good news. Konami has confirmed that the “interactive elements” from the original opening will return in the in-game version. Yes, you’ll still be able to control those iconic snakes slithering across the screen using your analog stick.
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater has been described as a “modernized yet faithful remake” that smoothly updates the legendary stealth-action classic for a new generation. The game is officially set to release on August 28, 2025, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X — and it’s shaping up to be one of the year’s most anticipated titles.
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