The wait is finally over! Fans of survival games and post-apocalyptic adventures can now mark their calendars, as the highly anticipated mobile game Once Human has officially announced its release date. Developed by NetEase Games, Once Human is set to launch in April 2025, promising an enthralling experience filled with survival, crafting, and open-world exploration.

Here’s everything you need to know about the game and why it’s shaping up to be a blockbuster in the mobile gaming world.


Developer and Platform Information

  • Developer(s): Starry Studio
  • Publisher(s): Starry Studio
  • Engine: NeoX
  • Platform(s): iOS, Windows
  • Genre(s): Third-person open-world survival game
  • Mode(s):Multiplayer

Also Read: The 12 Best Video Games Launching in December 2024

What’s Once Human all about?

Once Human is an ambitious survival sandbox game that combines elements of horror, action, and role-playing. Set in a grim, dystopian world overrun by monsters, the game challenges players to adapt and survive in an environment where every decision matters.

The premise revolves around a mysterious cosmic event that has unleashed an otherworldly substance called “Stardust,” transforming the world into a wasteland and mutating creatures into monstrous forms. As a “Beyonder” – a human who has gained special abilities – your mission is to fight these horrors, rebuild humanity, and uncover the secrets behind this catastrophic event.

Mobile Release: A Game-Changer for Fans

Initially launched for PC enthusiasts, Once Human is now making its way to mobile platforms, expanding its reach to a larger audience. The developers have carefully optimized the game for mobile devices without compromising its stunning visuals and immersive gameplay. The mobile version is expected to feature the same high-quality graphics, open-world mechanics, and rich storytelling that fans of the PC version have come to love.

On 19th December 2024, on X, the Chinese publisher published the roadmap for its post-apocalyptic open-world survival game, Once Human. Among the announcements was the release date of Once Human, scheduled for April 2025.

The announcement of the release date has sent waves of excitement across the gaming community. Mobile gamers will finally have the opportunity to dive into a world teeming with danger, mystery, and endless possibilities – all from the convenience of their smartphones or tablets.

Also Read: Steps to Make a Simple Game in Unity

Key Features to Look Forward To

Once Human stands out for its unique combination of gameplay features, making it a must-play for fans of the survival and sandbox genres. Here’s what you can expect from the mobile version:

Expansive Open World
Explore a beautifully crafted post-apocalyptic world filled with detailed environments, hidden secrets, and diverse biomes. From dense forests to eerie ruins, the game offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Intense Survival Mechanics
Players must gather resources, craft tools, build shelters, and fend off both natural threats and mutated monstrosities. Survival is not just a challenge – it’s a way of life.

Customizable Weapons and Gear
Craft and upgrade your arsenal to tackle the ever-evolving challenges of the wasteland. The game promises a variety of weapons and tools that cater to different playstyles.

Multiplayer Gameplay
Join forces with friends or other players online to tackle massive threats and complete missions. Collaboration is key to surviving the hostile environment of Once Human.

Engaging Storyline
Uncover the mysteries of Stardust. Not only that- the cosmic event that changed the world. And piece together the story through missions, NPC interactions, and environmental storytelling.


Final Thoughts

Once Human is set to redefine the survival game genre on mobile. The official announcement of its release date is a milestone for fans eagerly waiting to experience this dark yet exhilarating journey.

Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches, and prepare to dive into the unforgiving yet fascinating world of Once Human. Whether you’re a seasoned survivor or a newcomer to the genre, this game is one you won’t want to miss!

December, 2024: Step into the world of Squid Game, John Jacobs’ latest collaboration offering eyewear inspired by the thrilling series. This exclusive collection features six eyewear designs, each crafted to capture the essence of the hit show.

The collection blends classic styles with Squid Game’s signature elements. Featuring frames with the show’s iconic symbols, engraved accents, and the striking green hue of the contestants’ jerseys, perfectly capturing the show’s captivating aesthetic. Each piece brings the world of Squid Game to life, fusing fashion with the suspenseful drama.

John Jacobs x Squid Game 2 collaboration

Apeksha Gupta, CEO of John Jacobs, commented, “Our collaboration with Squid Game is a celebration of bold creativity and global culture. This curation is a tribute to the power of iconic storytelling. We’re thrilled to bring fans and fashion enthusiasts a truly unforgettable experience.”

Also Read: The 12 Best Video Games Launching in December 2024

With its blend of pop culture influence and stunning designs, the John Jacobs x Squid Game 2 collaboration is a must-have for both fashion connoisseurs and fans of the show.

Squid Game 2 is releasing worldwide on Netflix on 26th December. Survive the games with bold styles and a new lens with John Jacobs.

Fact Sheet:

Price: INR 5000

Available at: www.johnjacobseyewear.com, www.lenskart.com, all John Jacobs and Lenskart

Outlets, Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra and Ajio

Link to the collection: https://www.johnjacobseyewear.com/collections/squid-game

John Jacobs x Squid Game 2 collaboration

About John Jacobs:

Gaze into the JJ universe, where eye-fashion becomes a canvas for self-expression. We believe in the intuitive ability of eyewear to impact sensibilities with their own tales to recite. We thrive on making exquisite eyewear accessible to our discerning customers with a focus on exacting quality, material innovation and design experimentation. We work with only the best, and count industry powerhouses like Mazzucchelli from Italy, Rodenstock from Germany, and Tokai Lutina from Japan as our steadfast partners. Our vision for the future of eyewear embodies a drive to bring cutting-edge technology to the forefront, and stay rooted to the pulse of the zeitgeist.

The holiday season is here, and while most blockbuster video games for 2024 have already hit the shelves, December still has some exciting releases to close out the year. From reimagined classics to thrilling adventures, VR escapades, and nostalgic throwbacks, there’s something for everyone this month.

Whether you’re looking to solve puzzles with Indiana Jones, dive into the soccer field with a new free-to-play title, or battle xenomorphs in VR, December 2024 is packed with unique gaming experiences. Let’s explore the top 12 video games releasing this month:

 

1. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

  • Release Date:December 9
  • Platforms:Xbox Series X|S, PC

The legendary archaeologist is back in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Bethesda’s first major Indiana Jones title in decades. Set between the events of Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Last Crusade, this action-adventure game takes players on a globe-trotting journey across iconic locations like Rome, Egypt, and the Himalayas.

With a mix of first-person exploration, stealth, puzzles, and action, The Great Circle is a dream come true for fans of the franchise. Launching directly on Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass, it’s a must-play for Xbox gamers this holiday season.

 

2. Delta Force

  • Release Date:December 4
  • Platform:PC

The classic tactical shooter returns with a modern twist in Delta Force. This reimagined FPS includes multiplayer modes and a remake of the Delta Force: Black Hawk Down campaign, based on the Ridley Scott movie.

Launching in Early Access on PC, the game debuts with two core multiplayer modes—Operations and Warfare—with the single-player campaign arriving later. A free-to-play model will roll out on additional platforms in the future, making this revival a significant moment for fans of the series.

Also Read- Mafia: The Old Country Delivers Thrilling First Look at The Game Awards

3. UFL

  • Release Date:December 4
  • Platforms:PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Soccer fans can look forward to UFL, a free-to-play title with a unique fantasy team-building approach. Backed by superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, the game emphasizes creating dream teams with real-life players and features arcade-style gameplay distinct from its competitors.

 

4. Skydance’s Behemoth

  • Release Date:December 5
  • Platforms:PS VR2, Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest 3

VR gamers are in for a treat with Skydance’s Behemoth, a dark and immersive adventure from the creators of The Walking Dead: Saints and Sinners. As a banished hunter in the Forsaken Lands, players will face off against massive Behemoths in epic boss battles that push VR to its limits.

 

5. Alien: Rogue Incursion

  • Release Date:December 19
  • Platforms:PS VR2, Steam VR, Quest 3

Set in the Alien universe, this VR action-horror game follows Zula Hendricks, a former Colonial Marine on a mission to a mysterious planet. Players will battle terrifying xenomorphs in a gripping story-driven experience, making it a standout title for VR enthusiasts.

 

6. Infinity Nikki

  • Release Date:December 5
  • Platforms:PS5, iOS, Android, PC

Blending open-world exploration with stylish anime aesthetics, Infinity Nikki is a cozy adventure that lets players craft outfits with gameplay-enhancing features. With its gacha-style mechanics and vibrant world, it’s a charming entry for fans of games like Genshin Impact.

 

7. Marvel Rivals

  • Release Date:December 6
  • Platforms:PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Marvel’s new 6v6 PvP hero shooter brings together 33 characters from the Marvel universe in dynamic team-based battles. With three game modes—Convoy, Domination, and Convergence—and unique hero synergies, Marvel Rivals offers thrilling competitive gameplay for fans of superheroes and shooters alike.

Also Read – How to Enhance User Experience with AR and VR in Gaming?

8. Path of Exile 2

  • Release Date:December 6
  • Platforms:PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Five years after its announcement, Path of Exile 2 is finally arriving in Early Access. This action RPG sequel introduces revamped systems, new classes, 50+ bosses, and full crossplay support. Developers plan to expand the game over the next six months, doubling its size.

 

9. Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered

  • Release Date:December 10
  • Platforms:PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch, PC

The beloved Soul Reaver series is back with remastered versions of its iconic first two titles. Developed by Aspyr, the remasters enhance the visuals while preserving the storytelling, gameplay, and engine of the originals. Perfect for fans of nostalgic gaming.

 

10. Monument Valley 3

  • Release Date:December 10
  • Platforms:iOS, Android via Netflix Games

The visually stunning puzzle series returns with Monument Valley 3. Available exclusively on Netflix Games, this new entry delivers more mind-bending challenges and captivating art, alongside access to the first two titles for subscribers.

 

11. Spirit of the Samurai

  • Release Date:December 12
  • Platforms:PC

This side-scrolling action game set in feudal Japan uses striking stop-motion animation to create a unique look. Spirit of the Samurai combines hack-and-slash combat with Metroidvania exploration, offering a brutal yet beautiful gaming experience.

 

12. Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita’s Rewind

  • Release Date:December 10 (Other Platforms), December 19 (Switch)
  • Platforms:PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Switch

Fans of the ’90s TV show will love this nostalgic 2D brawler. With pixel art visuals, classic enemies, and remixed storylines from the original series, Rita’s Rewind captures the spirit of the Power Rangers era.

Final Thoughts

From VR adventures to nostalgic remasters and innovative new titles, December 2024 wraps up the gaming calendar with something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of action, strategy, or puzzles, these games are perfect to keep you entertained over the holidays.

Which one are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments below!

Start of an all-new crime saga for the acclaimed Mafia franchise coming Summer 2025, available to wishlist now

INDIA, 13 December 2024, 2K and Hangar 13 released a new trailer for Mafia: The Old Country, introducing the brutal criminal underworld of 1900s Sicily at The Game Awards. Marking the start of a new crime saga for the acclaimed Mafia franchise, Mafia: The Old Country is an all-new story set in the Mafia universe, harkening back to the roots of organized crime with a compelling new cast of characters.

As a linear, narrative-driven game, Mafia: The Old Country is a focused package perfect for fans looking to engross themselves in an unfamiliar world of danger and intrigue. The graphically stunning cinematic experience features a story grounded in the brutal world of organized crime that authentically immerses players with dangerous combat systems featuring high-stakes, grounded stealth and gunplay mechanics.

Know more about Black Myth: Pricing & Specification

Mafia: The Old Country introduces a new, original protagonist for players to embody. Enzo’s story unfolds in a time when skill with a stiletto blade was a deadly asset, a lupara sawed-off shotgun was a go-to firearm, murderous vendettas raged for decades, and mafiosi patrolled their protection rackets on foot, horseback, or behind the wheel of turn-of-the-century motorcars.

 

Through grit and determination, Enzo has survived a childhood of indentured labor in Sicily’s hellish sulfur mines. Now, through a twist of fate, he has the opportunity to join Don Torrisi’s crime family, and will do whatever it takes to carve out a better life for himself. By swearing an oath, Enzo has committed himself to the Torrisi family’s code of honor, with all the power and hardship it entails. He must never forget this simple truth: Family Takes Sacrifice.

 

Mafia: The Old Country is a love letter to old-style, gritty Mafia stories where players can uncover the origins of organized crime,” said Nick Baynes, President of Hangar 13, “Everyone at Hangar 13 is committed to creating the most authentic and intense story of the franchise, and we can’t wait for players to experience the journey with Enzo.”

 

First established in 2002 with the launch of the landmark game Mafia, the franchise has sold-in more than 35 million copies across consoles and PC. Hangar 13 has spent 22 years immersing players in brutal Mafia worlds, and now these franchise veterans are focused on Mafia: The Old Country.

Also Read: Steps to Make a Simple Game in Unity

For the latest information on Mafia: The Old Country, wishlist the game, visit mafiagame.com and follow the game across YouTube, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.

Mafia: The Old Country

Mafia: The Old Country is currently rated RP – Mature by the ESRB.

 

About 2K Games

Founded in 2005, 2K develops and publishes interactive entertainment for video game consoles, personal computers and mobile devices, with product availability including physical retail and digital download. The Company is home to many talented development studios, including Visual Concepts, Firaxis Games, Hangar 13, Cat Daddy Games, 31st Union, Cloud Chamber and HB Studios. 2K’s portfolio currently includes several AAA, sports and entertainment brands, including global powerhouse NBA®️ 2K; renowned BioShock®️Borderlands®️MafiaSid Meier’s Civilization®️ and XCOM®️ brands; popular WWE®️ 2K and WWE®️ SuperCard franchises; as well as the critically and commercially acclaimed PGA TOUR®️ 2K. Additional information about 2K and its products may be found at 2K.com and on the Company’s official social media channels.

 

In an age where technology shapes careers and opportunities, digital education is crucial for students to make informed decisions about their future. Acknowledging this need, Scope Magazine has introduced a five-day crash course to provide students with a glimpse into the exciting world of digital skills. Designed to be accessible and impactful, this initiative is already making waves in schools and colleges across Bengal.

The Five-Day Crash Course: A Gateway to Digital Careers

This crash course introduces students to foundational concepts in digital designing, programming, and other in-demand skills. Unlike long-term programs, this concise training is tailored to provide maximum value in a short time. By the end of the course, students receive a certification, adding a significant credential to their profiles.

Scope Gaming Community is undertaking unprecedented initiatives to help students accommodate in the fast growing global digital landscape.
Scope Gaming Community is undertaking unprecedented initiatives to help students accommodate in the fast growing global digital landscape.

Also Read: Scope and Red Apple Learning to Launch Digital Literacy Initiative

What Does the Crash Course Cover?

  1. Introduction to Digital Design:
    Students learn the basics of graphic design and user interface creation, exploring tools like Canva.
  2. Programming Basics:
    The course offers an overview of programming concepts and languages such as C, C# or Unity3D, sparking interest in coding.
  3. Digital Career Exploration:
    Insights into career paths like game development, web design, and app development empower students to understand their options better.
  4. Hands-On Mini Projects:
    Each student gets the opportunity to work on a simple project, showcasing their newly learned skills.
Free masterclasses for schools, colleges and university students
Skill Development redefined! Scope Gaming Community is empowering students with industry-relevant skills to excel in the booming digital careers landscape. 

Why This Course Matters

  1. Informed Career Decisions:
    For students in the early stages of career planning, this course acts as a career compass, offering clarity about the digital domain.
  2. Accessible Learning:
    By keeping the training free, Scope Magazine ensures that students from diverse backgrounds can participate, eliminating financial barriers.
  3. Confidence Boost:
    Completing the course and earning a certification instills a sense of achievement and motivates students to explore further learning opportunities.
Free masterclasses for schools, colleges and university students
Unlock new horizons with Career Exploration! Scope is helping students navigate the dynamic world of Digital Careers through impactful initiatives and guidance.

Partnering with educational institutions

In last 2 years, Scope magazine has been successfully conducting such classes, seminars and webinars in association with Red Apple Learning in schools, colleges and universities. Thousands of students have already reaped the benefits of these events by now. Later on, many of these students have pursued specializations in these new age skills and now working successfully in leading corporate houses.

Also Read: Avoid 6 Common Mistakes before Selecting your Career Options

The Ripple Effect: Impact on Students

Students who have participated in the crash course have reported a newfound enthusiasm for exploring digital careers. Here’s what this initiative achieves:

  • Broadening Horizons: Students discover skills they were previously unaware of, opening doors to fields like graphic design, programming, and game development.
  • Practical Knowledge: Even in just five days, hands-on exposure to digital tools and techniques enhances their confidence.
  • Future Readiness: The certification, combined with a better understanding of digital career opportunities, positions students as forward-thinking individuals.
Scope magazine conducting seminars and webinars in schools, colleges and universities
Scope in association with Red Apple Learning Pvt. Ltd. is conducting free masterclasses for schools, colleges and university students.

The Future of Digital Education in Bengal

Scope Magazine’s mission doesn’t end here. Plans are underway to expand these crash courses to more institutions, creating an ecosystem where every student can explore the digital world, regardless of their background.

By introducing young minds to diverse skill sets, Scope Magazine is not just teaching—it’s inspiring a generation to dream big and make informed decisions about their futures.

For more details about Scope Magazine’s initiatives, visit www.scopemagazine.in.

 

Trailer highlights new villains and themes for the most ambitious Borderlands game to-date, available to wishlist now

 

INDIA, 13 December 2024— Today, 2K and Gearbox Software released the first look at Borderlands® 4 showcasing new details from one of the most highly anticipated games coming in 2025. Revealed at The Game Awards, a new trailer introduces The Timekeeper, a ruthless dictator who dominates the masses from on high. A world-altering catastrophe threatens his perfect Order, unleashing mayhem across Kairos, the most dangerous planet discovered so far in the Borderlands universe.

Borderlands 4 is the most ambitious Borderlands to date, lovingly hand-crafted by the development studio that first forged the looter shooter genre. The title evolves the series’ gameplay and storytelling in new ways while delivering on the quintessential Borderlands experience fans know and love, including:

  • Intense action, badass Vault Hunters, and billions of wild and deadly weapons on an all-new planet ruled by a ruthless tyrant.
  • The deepest and most diverse Vault Hunter skill trees of any Borderlands title yet, giving players an unprecedented level of expression through their builds. Paired with the most expansive loot chase yet, players will have all the tools they need to seek out and perfect the build that best matches their style.
  • Players will be able to seamlessly travel between zones and become immersed in a more dynamic world featuring events and discoverable side missions that encourage and reward exploration.
  • New traversal mechanics add to the exploration for loot and add new dimensions to combat. A vehicle that can be summoned almost anywhere will have players racing across the beautiful vistas of Kairos in style.
  • Fight solo or in co-op with up to three other players in this immense sci-fi adventure, packed with free-form combat and exploration, pulse-pounding boss fights, infinitely varied loot drops, and an eclectic cast of unforgettable characters new and old.

“Borderlands 4 is about freedom and being badass,” said Gearbox boss Randy Pitchford. “This is by far the biggest and most insane world we’ve ever made – it’s overloaded with jerkface ratnozzle scrote monsters that need to be put down with the most over-the-top hardcore nuts op guns and loot in any game ever. Oh, and the story also seriously kicks ass!”

Borderlands 4_Scope Gaming Magazine

Borderlands 4 will launch in 2025 on PlayStation®5 (PS5®), Xbox Series X|S and PC through Steam and the Epic Games Store. It is available to wishlist now.

The Borderlands franchise has sold-in more than 87 million copies to-date, receiving critical acclaim from reviewers and fans alike. With unforgettable characters, deep world building, and more unique guns than can be counted, the franchise has cemented itself as a must-play series.

For the latest information on Borderlands 4, wishlist the game, visit www.borderlands.2k.com and follow the game across YouTube, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.

Borderlands 4 is currently rated RP for Rating Pending by the ESRB.

Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Backing and the Launch of UFL: The New Challenger in Football Gaming

About 2K Games

Founded in 2005, 2K develops and publishes interactive entertainment for video game consoles, personal computers and mobile devices, with product availability including physical retail and digital download. The Company is home to many talented development studios, including Visual Concepts, Firaxis Games, Hangar 13, Cat Daddy Games, 31st Union, Cloud Chamber and HB Studios. 2K’s portfolio currently includes several AAA, sports and entertainment brands, including global powerhouse NBA®️ 2K; renowned BioShock®️Borderlands®️MafiaSid Meier’s Civilization®️ and XCOM®️ brands; popular WWE®️ 2K and WWE®️ SuperCard franchises; as well as the critically and commercially acclaimed PGA TOUR®️ 2K. Additional information about 2K and its products may be found at 2K.com and on the Company’s official social media channels.

A decade ago, China lifted its 14-year ban on video game console sales, opening the floodgates for a gaming revolution in the world’s third-largest market. The move not only allowed global giants like Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft to officially enter the Chinese market but also inspired local studios to dream bigger. No longer confined to online and mobile gaming, many Chinese developers began exploring larger-scale console titles. Among them was Game Science, the studio behind the 2024 Golden Joystick Ultimate Game of the Year winner, Black Myth: Wukong.

A Stunning Achievement on a Modest Budget

It’s hard to overstate the leap Game Science made with Black Myth: Wukong. Having previously developed only a couple of relatively simple mobile strategy games, the studio managed to deliver a game of extraordinary polish and high production value on a budget of under $100 million. While that figure might seem impressive in China, it’s relatively modest compared to Western AAA standards. Yet, Wukong is a dazzling showcase of Unreal Engine 5, bringing cutting-edge graphics to life with remarkable finesse.

From its reimagined Journey to the West characters and cinematic cutscenes to its intricate combat systems and unforgettable boss fights, Wukong shattered expectations. The skepticism that greeted its reveal trailer four years ago—where many doubted the final product could match its stunning visuals—was thoroughly put to rest. While the game isn’t perfect, its achievement is undeniable.

Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Backing and the Launch of UFL: The New Challenger in Football Gaming

Highlights and Criticisms

Despite its success, Black Myth: Wukong isn’t without flaws. Its linear progression, initial technical hiccups, and occasionally underwhelming combat feedback have drawn criticism. However, these issues didn’t prevent the game from becoming a global hit, earning nominations for prestigious awards and cementing its place as a milestone in gaming history.

Black Myth: Wukong System Requirements

If you’re planning to embark on this mythological journey, make sure your gaming rig is up to the task. Here are the system requirements for Black Myth: Wukong:

Minimum Requirements

  • Processor: Core i5-8400 / Ryzen 5 1600
  • GPU: GeForce GTX 1060 / RX 580
  • VRAM: 6GB
  • RAM: 16GB
  • Storage: 130GB (HDD supported)

Recommended Requirements

  • Processor: Core i7-9700 / Ryzen 5 5500
  • GPU: GeForce RTX 2060 / Radeon RX 6700XT / Arc A750
  • VRAM: 6GB
  • RAM: 16GB
  • Storage: 130GB (SSD recommended)

For Full Ray Tracing on Ultra Settings

  • Processor: Core i7-9700 / Ryzen 5 5500
  • GPU: GeForce RTX 4080 Super
  • VRAM: 16GB
  • RAM: 32GB
  • Storage: 130GB (SSD required)

Opening the Floodgates for Chinese AAA Games

The success of Wukong has not only propelled Game Science into the spotlight but has also piqued global interest in other Chinese developers. In 2025, several high-profile releases are planned, each aiming to rival the scale and ambition of Black Myth. Notable examples include:

  • Phantom Blade Zero
  • Wuchang: Fallen Feathers
  • Code: To Jin Yong

These games, while developed by studios of varying sizes (e.g., Lightspeed Games, a Tencent division, is behind Code: To Jin Yong), share a common thread: jaw-dropping visuals, dynamic combat, and deep roots in Chinese cultural traditions like Wuxia. This infusion of cultural inspiration into gameplay and aesthetics has added a refreshing vibrancy to their offerings.

A New Trend or a Short-Lived Fad?

Interestingly, many of these upcoming titles seem to follow a similar formula: fast-paced, third-person character action games with Souls-like combat elements. While this trend is exciting now, it remains to be seen if repeated iterations will lead to fatigue. For the moment, however, the buzz surrounding these games suggests a bright future for the genre.

Looking Ahead

Black Myth: Wukong is more than just a game—it’s a declaration of intent. Game Science has proven that Chinese developers can compete with the best, and the ripple effect is already visible. If the upcoming titles live up to their trailers, this could mark the dawn of a new era for Chinese AAA games.

For now, gamers have plenty to look forward to, and if these developers continue to innovate and refine their craft, the global gaming industry will have an exciting new force to reckon with.

UFL, a free-to-play football game, has officially launched today, December 5, 2024, on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and Windows. The game aims to shake up the football-gaming world with Cristiano Ronaldo as its ambassador and investor, offering a “fair-to-play” experience that challenges the dominance of EA Sports and Konami.

For over a decade, football gaming has been synonymous with two titans: EA Sports and Konami. EA’s FIFA (now EAFC) gained popularity but drew criticism for its lack of innovation and in-game purchases. Meanwhile, Konami’s eFootball struggled with its reputation for poor graphics and unrealistic gameplay. Recognizing the opportunity for something new, Strikerz Inc spent six years crafting UFL to bring fresh ideas and fairness to football gaming.

Also Read: GamingCon 2024: India’s Biggest Gaming Festival is Here!

Building a New Football Gaming Legacy

Inspired by classics like FIFA and PES, UFL blends passion for football with innovation. Eugene Nashilov, CEO of Strikerz Inc, emphasized the need for change:

“As gamers, we’ve seen stagnant experiences in football games. Shooter and action games evolved, but football games became more about licensing than gameplay. With our gaming expertise, we wanted to create something different—gameplay-focused and fair.”

The result is UFL, a game that encourages skill and strategy over spending money.

UFL releasing today

 

Revolutionizing the Business Model

UFL adopts a free-to-play system akin to Fortnite and League of Legends, offering players:

Fair Play: No loot boxes or pay-to-win mechanics. Progression is skill-based, with players earning resources to upgrade teams organically.

Unique Player System: There’s only one version of each player. Whether it’s Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi, performance depends on player skill, not tiers or duplicates.

Dynamic Updates: Regular updates add fresh content, modes, and collaborations with sports personalities and brands.

Additionally, UFL includes a unique skin system inspired by sticker albums, allowing players to customize visuals and gameplay perks for their teams.

Cristiano Ronaldo investment in UFL

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Role

Cristiano Ronaldo’s involvement has been pivotal to UFL’s rise. Initially signed as an ambassador in 2021, Ronaldo became an investor in 2023, solidifying his support for the project. Nashilov described the collaboration as a dream come true:

“As a lifelong Ronaldo fan, I never imagined working with him. After months of pitching, he saw the potential in UFL and joined us as both an ambassador and an investor. His belief in the game has been incredibly inspiring.”

Ronaldo’s influence extends beyond promotion, as his involvement has also helped attract other top football stars, including Kevin De Bruyne, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Roberto Firmino.

 

UFL match highlights

Also Read: From Slots to Poker: The Versatility of Casino Game Development Services

Challenges and Strengths

While UFL boasts excellent gameplay, graphics, and community-driven updates, the lack of official team and stadium licenses may present challenges. However, Nashilov is confident the game’s unique features and player-centric approach will win over fans seeking alternatives to pay-to-win models.

“We delayed the release to ensure we got it right, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. UFL is ready to deliver an unparalleled gaming experience.”

 

Conclusion: A Game-Changing Experience

UFL is more than a game—it’s a movement to redefine football gaming. With Cristiano Ronaldo’s backing and a vision centered on fairness and community, UFL has all the ingredients to challenge the giants of the industry. The game is available now, free to play, for football fans worldwide.

GamingCon 2024: India’s Biggest Gaming Festival is Here!

Mumbai is all set to host GamingCon 2024, a first-of-its-kind gaming festival that promises to redefine the Indian gaming scene. The event, taking place at the NESCO Center from November 30 to December 1, 2024, will be a vibrant celebration of gaming, technology, and pop culture. With over 5,000 square meters of immersive gaming experiences and 100+ brands from gaming, tech, and lifestyle sectors, GamingCon is poised to become the ultimate playground for gamers and enthusiasts alike.

A Groundbreaking Milestone in Indian Gaming

GamingCon 2024 is much more than just an event. It’s a way of that celebrates the spirit of Indian gamers as well as the huge possibility of the Indian gaming sector. As the inaugural festival of its scale, it brings together a diverse audience including gamers, influencers, developers, investors, and aspiring professionals.

The festival will present the latest developments in gaming technology, and offer unprecedented opportunities to meet, network and grow within gamers.

What to Expect at GamingCon 2024

GamingCon promises an action-packed itinerary with something for everyone:

Hands-On Gaming Experiences

Explore the latest games, product launches, and virtual reality (VR) setups. Dive deep into gaming innovations and experience the future of entertainment firsthand.

Cosplay Extravaganza

Step into the shoes of your favorite gaming characters in a vibrant cosplay competition with exciting prizes up for grabs.

Insightful Conferences

Listen to industry experts, including animators, VFX artists, and game developers, as they discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities in the gaming world.

Also Read: India’s Gaming Market Set to Double, Fueling Job Growth and Economic Transformation

Career Opportunities

A dedicated career zone will connect aspiring game developers, designers, and artists with top employers in the industry. It’s the perfect platform to kickstart or enhance your gaming career.

Influencer Interactions

Get up close with leading gaming influencers through live gameplay sessions and interactive “how-to” workshops.

Why You Should Attend GamingCon

GamingCon offers a unique blend of innovation, entertainment, and networking. Here’s why you shouldn’t miss it:

  • Connect with Industry Leaders: Meet game developers, publishers, marketers, streamers, YouTubers, and influencers under one roof.
  • Brand Exposure: Over 10,000 gamers and tech enthusiastsare expected to attend, making it an excellent platform for showcasing your brand.
  • Interactive Fun: Participate in interactive demos, hands-on activities, and competitions to create unforgettable memories.

A Booming Gaming Industry

India’s gaming industry is on a rapid growth trajectory. By 2028, the country is expected to have 900 million gamers, with market revenues projected at USD 6.26 billion, largely driven by in-app purchases and ad revenues. Events like GamingCon play a vital role in showcasing this burgeoning industry to local and global audiences.

(Source: “State of India Gaming” Report FY23 by Lunikai in collaboration with Google)

Also Read: How to Find a Suitable Job after Graduation?

Participate and Partner at GamingCon

GamingCon isn’t just for attendees; it’s also a golden opportunity for brands and industry stakeholders. Forge valuable connections, explore partnerships, and collaborate on future projects. Whether you’re a gamer, developer, or brand looking to make a mark, GamingCon is the place to be.

To Wrap Up

GamingCon 2024 is not just an event; it’s a celebration of India’s growing gaming culture. From showcasing cutting-edge technology to creating networking opportunities, it’s set to become a cornerstone for the gaming community in India. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of history. See you in Mumbai!

Nazara Technologies has strengthened its foothold in the booming esports industry by acquiring a 15.86% stake in STAN, a dynamic platform where gamers rally around their favorite content creators. The $2.2 million deal, sealed through Nazara’s Dubai-based subsidiary, will fuel Stan’s mission to enhance esports fan engagement through an array of supportive tools. With over 12 million users, including half a million paying subscribers, Stan’s mobile-first approach aligns seamlessly with Nazara’s vision of building a global gaming powerhouse.

Also Read: India’s Gaming Market Set to Double, Fueling Job Growth and Economic Transformation

Nazara’s CEO, Nitish Mittersain, sees this acquisition as a strategic win. “Stan’s community-first model fits perfectly with our goal of empowering content creators and connecting global gaming audiences,” he said. Nazara’s latest acquisitions include stakes in events firm Comic Con India and gaming content developer Deltias Gaming, further establishing it as a dominant force in the global gaming landscape. As the company eyes further M&A opportunities, Nazara’s momentum signals a transformative era for esports engagement.