This monthly series compares the aligned Japanese sales of the PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4.

The PlayStation 5 launched in November 2020 in Japan, while the PlayStation 4 launched in February 2014. This does mean the holiday periods for the two consoles do not lineup.

PS5 Vs. PS4 Japan:

Gap change in latest month: 71,410 - PS4

Gap change over last 12 months: 640,565 - PS4

Total Lead: 975,520 - PS4

PlayStation 5 Total Sales: 7,629,786

PlayStation 4 Total Sales: 8,605,306

June 2026 is the 68th month the PlayStation 5 has been available for. In the latest month, the gap grew in favor of the PlayStation 4 when compared to the aligned launch of the PlayStation 5 by 71,410 units.

In the last 12 months, the PS4 has outsold the PS5 by 0.64 million units. The PS5 is currently behind the PS4 by 0.98 million units.

The 68th month for the PS5 in Japan is June 2026, while for the PS4 it is September 2019. The PS5 has sold 7.63 million units, while the PS4 sold 8.61 million units during the same timeframe.

The PS4 crossed 9 million in month 72 and 9.5 million in month 84. The PS4 sold 9.68 million units lifetime. The PS5 is currently 2.05 million units behind the lifetime sales of the PS4 in Japan.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468442/ps5-vs-ps4-sales-comparison-in-japan-june-2026/

The Adventures of Elliot takes place in the magical, medieval continent of Philabieldia, one of those fantasy proper nouns that's easier to read than say aloud. Most of the continent is inhabited by feral beast tribes. The lone exception is the Kingdom of Huther, a castle town where humanity flourishes under the protection of a magical barrier. It's against this backdrop that the king requests that Elliot, an accomplished adventurer, brave the wild lands outside the town walls and investigate recently unearthed ruins. Inside those ruins, Elliot discovers a mystical doorway into the past. While the king is reluctant to investigate this new discovery, his minister Kaifried (who struggles to conceal his mustache-twirling scheming) goes full steam ahead, stepping into the past to rewrite history in his own name. Elliot chases him backward in time, only to become entangled in mystery hundreds of years in the making.

The story in The Adventures of Elliot is a mixed bag. On one hand, its ambition deserves applause. It endeavors to spin a tale with plot points in four different time periods, each separated by several generations. On the other hand, the delivery of the story is sometimes jarring and melodramatic. Part of this has to do with the fact that the game discards its principal antagonist halfway through, only to pivot to what feels like an entirely new threat (in an entirely new game). The other part has to do with voice acting, which is professional but theatrical, i.e. overwrought and overly staged.

Voice acting is actually one of the biggest issues in this game, believe it or not. Well, not just voice acting, but direction as well. The game constantly talks at you. Early on, Elliot is joined by the disembodied voice of Heuria, the princess of Huther. She comments on everything Elliot sees and does and doesn't do. Later on, she's replaced by Faie, a fairy companion. What sort of Zelda-like would this be without a fairy by your side, after all? Faie is even chattier, constantly providing unsolicited comments and suggestions. If you see an enemy, or a treasure chest, or a door, or a save point, she will chime in. If you open the map, she will say "let's see, where are we?" And since you need to reference the map a lot, you will hear this one phrase dozens, if not hundreds of times. If you're one of those old-school gamers who still harbors bad feelings toward Navi in Ocarina of Time, well, all I can say is you don't know how good you had it.

Team Asano does allow players to change the frequency of these interjections, but in practice it doesn't make a major difference. Note: on July 10, Square Enix announced a version 1.1.0 update that allows you to silence Faie entirely. However, it doesn't seem to be live on PS5 as of this review.

If you can look past the voice direction issues, you'll find a polished, mostly dependable action-adventure experience. In true Zelda fashion, Elliot will crisscross the diverse biomes of Philabieldia, fighting beast tribes and seeking treasure in the overworld and inside monster-infested dungeons. While the continent isn't huge in terms of real estate, it's densely packed with secrets, shortcuts, and temples that grant health upgrades or augment Faie in some way. There is a lot of optional side content, which is great. 

The big missed opportunity with the overworld is the way it changes (or doesn't change) along with Elliot's travels through time. The heroic adventurer will visit four different time periods, each separated by hundreds of years; yet they look and function in more or less the same way, apart from the human-inhabited area. Team Asano and Claytechworks passed on a golden opportunity to surprise players with different enemies, architecture, and geological features across the ages. Similarly, it passed on an opportunity to create puzzle-solving opportunities that stretch across multiple eras. There is one instance where you must lower a ladder in the Age of Magic so you can climb it in the Age of Reconstruction, but this is a rarity.

While the developers didn't maximize the potential of the time travel mechanic, they absolutely nailed the combat side of things. The fighting framework in The Adventures of Elliot is one of the game's best features, for a few reasons. First, there's weapon diversity. Elliot carries seven different weapons and can arm two at once. He can select from four melee weapons (sword, spear, hammer, and scythe chain) and three projectile weapons (boomerang, bow, and bomb). Second, there are more powerful variations of these weapons hiding somewhere on the continent, waiting to be found. Third, Elliot can transform Magicite fragments, found in the overworld and dungeons, into dozens of different augments for his weapons, granting them extra powers, e.g. improved critical chance. At one point I modified my bombs to freeze enemies on contact and then leave behind a pool of molten lava after exploding. The potential for custom builds is impressive.

If, for any reason, you struggle in combat, you can call in a friend for help. In a pleasant twist, The Adventures of Elliot allows a second player to control Faie. This player can't interact with the game world in the same way as player one, and is limited to Faie's complementary abilities, but they can certainly make a difference, especially during boss battles.

Speaking of those boss encounters, they're quite satisfying. The game makes great use of space in each encounter, creating opportunities for Elliot to dodge and deflect projectiles, set himself up for a perfectly timed shield block, and deploy any variation of weapon types. The most memorable fight takes place in a half-submerged cave, and appears to draw inspiration partly from King Dodongo from Ocarina of Time. During this encounter, you must leap up lily pads to avoid a gigantic tidal wave and also attempt to weave your way through swirling water spouts. If there's a problem with bosses, it's that Team Asano and Claytechworks tend to recycle enemies across the ages.

Still, it's difficult to complain about seeing the same guardians and beast tribesmen over and over when they look so good. Boss designs in particular are stunning, in part because of their scale, but everything in The Adventures of Elliot looks phenomenal: characters, buildings, terrain, monsters, even something as simple as water. HD-2D works wonders here, often winning you over even when the game is chatting at you incessantly, or spinning its wheels, or sending you on another fetch quest during its long, drawn-out end game.

Let's talk about that end game. While, for the most part, The Adventures of Elliot draws inspiration from The Legend of Zelda, it actually veers toward visual novel territory in its final few hours. The first time you see the credits roll, it will probably be after the bad ending, which leaves several questions unanswered. When you reload your save file, you can continue to investigate Philabieldia across time, pulling at narrative threads until you reach the good ending. That's not all there is, though. Keep triggering important conversations and events to reach the true ending, which finally ties together all the lessons learned from the previous conclusions. This part of the game is powerful from a narrative perspective, although not so much in terms of gameplay. You'll find many tedious quests and cut-scenes around this time.

Still, it does extend the playing time. If you rush through the game and content yourself with a single bad ending, you could retire after 14 hours. If you pursue all the optional content and every single ending, however, you could squeeze approximately 30 hours from the adventure. For those who want even more, there's a New Game+ option after the true ending.

Whether you spend three or 30 hours in Philabieldia, you'll be treated to some lovely music, courtesy of Tomohiro Nakamachi and Yuto Moritani. The main theme, in particular, is excellent. It starts gently with flute and fiddle before climbing to a rousing, sweeping chorus. It also has the subtle sound of a ticking clock, foreshadowing the time travel element. The two composers even went the extra mile to craft unique tracks for all four time periods, in order to summon a specific atmosphere and identity for each. "Hucarea" is bouncy and warm in the Age of Safekeeping, but tentative and reserved in the Age of Reconstruction.

As it turns out, HD-2D works for action-adventure just as well as it does for role-playing. Indeed, the best part of The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales is its visual style. It's so striking, in fact, that it sometimes helps you forget the game's flaws. If you're a fan of Team Asano's previous work and of games in the Zelda tradition, you may want to pick this one up, once update 1.1.0 is live and the asking price has dropped somewhat. It's not an essential piece of the HD-2D collection, but it's an adequate adventure that will help scratch that Zelda itch.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468272/the-adventures-of-elliot-the-millennium-tales-ps5/

"Today, we are sharing difficult news. While ZERO PARADES: For Dead Spies was released to critical acclaim, its commercial performance has not enabled us to sustain a studio of our current size," said ZA/UM Studio.

"We have served redundancy or at-risk notices impacting up to 32 of our colleagues across all departments at ZA/UM Studio. Their work has made a lasting difference and left its mark on ZERO PARADES: For Dead Spies, and the studio as a whole.

"Throughout this difficult process, we have continued to consult and work with representatives of the ZA/UM Workers' Alliance.

"This changes the shape of ZA/UM, but not its purpose. Our artistic standards remain unchanged: we will persist. To anyone currently hiring, please consider the colleagues leaving ZA/UM."

ZERO PARADES: For Dead Spies released for PC via Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG on May 21, and is set to launch later this year for the PlayStation 5.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468507/zero-parades-for-dead-spies-dev-zaum-studio-hit-with-layoffs/

This figure is up from two million units sold as of July 10.

"Yo Ho Ho! More than 3 million copies sold across the seas," said Ubisoft.

"Special thanks to all of you for playing and sharing tall tales about your Caribbean adventures. Guess we'll have to keep the adventures going with New Game+ later on, mates."

Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced released for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store on July 9.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468506/assassins-creed-black-flag-resynced-sales-top-3-million-units/

The studio has revealed The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim has sold over 65 million units since its launch in November 2011 and Fallout 4 has sold over 35 million units since its November 2015 release.

Bethesda also revealed over the course of forty years that nearly half a billion people have played at least one of their games. 

Lifetime player counts for two Bethesda games have also been revealed with Starfield topping 17 million players and Fallout Shelter surpassing 250 million players. Million of people also continue to play Fallout 76.

"Fallout 4, the most award-winning game in the franchise, just celebrated its 10-year anniversary and recently passed over 35 million copies sold, continuing to attract a new audience every year," said Bethesda.

The studio added, "Fallout 5 is currently in preproduction. The Elder Scrolls VI is our primary development focus today, with the majority of our team currently working on the next chapter of the franchise. With over 65 million copies sold, players are still exploring Skyrim 15 years later, but we know it’s been a very long wait for the sequel."

"With over 17 million players logging almost a billion hours to date, Starfield remains an important part of our future."

"Fallout Shelter continues to be the most popular way to experience Fallout on the go, with more than 250 million players."

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468505/the-elder-scrolls-v-skyrim-sales-top-65-million-units-fallout-4-tops-35-million/

The company following a report has confirmed it is working with Obsidian Entertainment on a new Fallout game with more details to be shared in the future. Remasters for Fallout 3 and Fallout: New Vegas have also been announced. However, no other information on these games have been released. 

Bethesda has also announced Fallout 5 is in pre-production while its main focus is The Elder Scrolls VI. Both games are using Creation Engine 3, which has been the team has been building since Starfield's release in September 2023.

ZeniMax Online Studios, the studio behind The Elder Scrolls Online, will be working closer with Bethesda Game Studios on The Elder Scrolls franchise.

Bethesda will continue working on Starfield as it enters its third year with plans to expand with new stories, along with gameplay improvements, and additional updates, while preparing for the launch of new Starborn content next year. 

Read the full message from Bethesda below:

A Note From Bethesda Game Studios

We love making these worlds as much as you love playing in them. Today, we want to share what’s next for Bethesda Game Studios and what you can expect from us in the years ahead.

For forty years, we’ve built games that have entertained almost half a billion players. More than just games, these are worlds. Worlds for you to explore, shape, and make your own. Worlds we return to together.

That’s what’s driving us forward. We’re investing more deeply in the worlds players love, giving creators a bigger role in shaping their experiences, and bringing our teams closer together so we can get our games into your hands sooner, support them longer, and continue building them alongside you for decades to come.

Starfield Continues

With over 17 million players logging almost a billion hours to date, Starfield remains an important part of our future. As we enter Year 3, we’ll continue expanding the Settled Systems with new stories, targeted gameplay improvements, and additional updates, while preparing for the launch of new Starborn content next year. More than 40 percent of players already customize their experience through Creations, and we’ll continue investing in creators and giving players new ways to make Starfield their own.

Created by Players

We’ve believed from the beginning that our worlds belong not only to the people who make them, but also to the people who play them. That’s why we’ve long provided players with the tools to create their own experiences, dating back to the Morrowind Construction Set. This year marked another major milestone for Creations with its expansion to Fallout 4, joining Skyrim and Starfield. We’re proud to say Creators have already earned more than $10 million in royalties from their work.

The Future of Fallout

Fallout is one of our biggest priorities today. Fallout 5 remains our long-range destination, and we have multiple Fallout projects in active development right now.

Fallout 76 continues to be home to millions of players exploring Appalachia together. With nearly 70 free updates released to date, the journey is far from over. In fact, we have a major Fallout 76 expansion planned for next year: Raven Rock, a prequel story to Fallout 3.

Fallout 4, the most award-winning game in the franchise, just celebrated its 10-year anniversary and recently passed over 35 million copies sold, continuing to attract a new audience every year.

We also know many players want to revisit previous Fallout experiences. While we’re not announcing any dates today, we have been working on remasters for both Fallout 3 and Fallout: New Vegas.

Fallout Shelter continues to be the most popular way to experience Fallout on the go, with more than 250 million players. There’s more ahead for Fallout Shelter, including new Seasons. An unscripted Fallout Shelter television project is also in the works with our partners at Amazon Studios and Kilter Films.

We’d like to congratulate Kilter Films and Amazon Studios on the 10 Emmy nominations for Fallout Season 2. Production on Season 3 is already underway.

And while we won’t host a traditional Fallout Day broadcast this year, we’re already planning something special for Fallout‘s 30th anniversary in 2027, when Fallout Day will be celebrated live in Washington, D.C.

Studio Collaboration

The wasteland continues to expand as we team up once again with our longtime friends at Obsidian Entertainment. We’re happy to confirm they’re working with us on a new Fallout project. We’ll have more to share in the future.

We’re also bringing our teams closer together across Bethesda. Zenimax Online Studios will partner closely with Bethesda Game Studios on The Elder Scrolls franchise, while continuing to deliver incredible new experiences for The Elder Scrolls Online. Season One: Return of the Thieves Guild recently launched, and the team has more planned for the future. By aligning more directly across the franchise, we can create even better experiences for players.

Bringing our teams closer together is helping us build a stronger foundation for everything we create next.

The Elder Scrolls and Beyond

That foundation extends beyond our teams to the technology, tools, and systems that will power the next generation of Bethesda RPGs.

Our teams are now developing The Elder Scrolls VI and Fallout 5 on Creation Engine 3, a shared technology platform we’ve been building since Starfield‘s launch. It allows our teams to support multiple projects simultaneously with new tools, rendering, and systems that define our games.

Fallout 5 is currently in pre-production. The Elder Scrolls VI is our primary development focus today, with the majority of our team currently working on the next chapter of the franchise. With over 65 million copies sold, players are still exploring Skyrim 15 years later, but we know it’s been a very long wait for the sequel.

The next chapter is on the way. We’re where we planned to be, loving how it looks, and playing it every day.

The Road Ahead

Across Bethesda Game Studios, we’re building for the future of Fallout, The Elder Scrolls, and Starfield. We’re investing in our technology, bringing teams closer together, supporting our live games, expanding into new forms of entertainment, and developing the next generation of Bethesda RPGs.

We couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead and wanted to share as much as we could today. We can’t thank you enough for all you’ve given to us and these worlds. And we can’t wait to continue them together.

—Bethesda Game Studios

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468504/bethesda-roadmap-elder-scrolls-6-fallout-5-obsidian-fallout-fallout-3-and-new-vegas-remasters/

The game first released for PC in Early Access in September 2025.

View the console announcement trailer below:

Read details on the game below:

Goblin Cleanup combines creative, chaotic cooperative gameplay for up to four players while answering a critical question: Who resets video game dungeons for the next would-be heroes ready to try their luck?

After customizing their cleaning goblins, players enter the each dungeon’s manky maze, mop up gore and viscera, refill its treasure chests, and reset the area ready for the next sword-swinging victims, all while working chaotically collaboratively to avoid falling victim to the many still active traps.

Today’s announcement follows the release of the “Dungeon Daddy” update in June, which marked the completion of the game’s first dungeon with its end-stage boss. The doors to the second dungeon opens for early access goblins later this summer, me hearties…

Key Features:

• Customize your Goblin Maid – What better way to clean up than doing it like a pro? Choose your outfit, gather your Goblin pals and get scrubbing!
• Clean and Tidy – It’s your job to clean up the mess, so clean it up you shall! Use your Slimop, mimic, and slime dispenser tool to help you remove all that blood from the floor and ceiling!
• Restore Objects – To ensure the dungeon returns to its original state, you must restore objects and place them back in their original positions.
• Restore Traps – What kind of dungeon would it be without traps? You’ll need to restore and reactivate them. But beware, there might be active traps that weren’t triggered by hapless adventurers.
• Respawn Creatures – You’ll also need to respawn creatures and dispose of their remains. Just keep an eye out for some creatures that may not have perished.
• Replenish Loot – You’ll also need to refill chests with items and treasures.
• Dynamic Dungeons – Each dungeon is filled with unique challenges… and hazards!

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468503/goblin-cleanup-launches-in-2027-for-switch-2-ps5-xbox-series-and-pc/

View the release date re-reveal trailer below:

Read new details on the game below:

New Trailer

The trailer highlights a bunch of feedback points we’ve received from you over the years. These are a handful of the ones we’ve addressed in Gallipoli, so we hope you’re excited to jump in next month! Let’s take a look at them in more detail.

Movement Improvements

Movement has gotten a lot more flexible and snappy. Instead of the binary system of ‘you can only sprint if you have stamina’, you can now also sprint while out of stamina, albeit more slowly. If your stamina is full, you’ll also run faster than in Isonzo for a short while, allowing you to charge the enemy or run for cover a bit better.

You can now also sprint while crouched or prone, allowing you to keep your head in the trenches without sacrificing too much speed. And if you have a bayonet on your rifle or a melee weapon in your hand, you can charge down your foe with a burst of speed and all the yelling you’d expect!

If you’d like to learn more about the movement improvements, check out this developer blog.

Squad Play

There’s a larger emphasis on squads in Gallipoli. Coordination with your squad is more important, especially with the addition of teamwork-focused roles like Stretcher Bearers (medics) and Heavy Machine Gunners. You can now also ping any location or marker to help steer your squad towards it!

The type of squad you join determines the roles you should focus on. Your Squad Type gives you more slots for specific classes and gives the Officer specific off-map support—both will steer your squad in a certain direction.

For more info about Squads and Call-ins, check out this developer blog.

Immersion

A lot of effort has been put into making Gallipoli as immersive as it can be. Through intricate audio design, VFX, and detailed environments, we really think we’ve made a convincing slice of the Ottoman Fronts for you to immerse yourself in, and we hope you’ll agree.

This also extends to gameplay! Explosions kick up sand and dust that lingers around and slowly disperses. This is more than just an annoyance—these dust clouds can be used as cover for a brazen assault or a tactical retreat.

Cross-Play

Last but definitely not least: Gallipoli has full cross-play! Squad up with players across PC, Xbox Series, and PlayStation 5 and work together as one.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468502/world-war-i-fps-gallipoli-launches-august-20-for-ps5-xbox-series-and-pc/

Ryan Hurst was originally cast to play star as Kratos on the show from Sony Pictures Television and Amazon MGM Studios. He was seriously injured on set in late June. This is after spending months working hard to put on 40 lbs (18 kg) of muscle.

Hurst tore a bicep while doing a stunt on the show and has since undergone surgery and is now recovering, according to sources.

A serious bicep injury typically takes four to six months to recovery, with a return to full strength taking up to a year. This would mean Hurst would not be ready to resume filming until 2027. His recovery period is longer than the production shooting schedule could accommodate. Prep is expected to begin in mid-August for a mid-October production start. 

The live-action God of War started filming in February in Vancouver and was shooting two seasons back-to-back, which remains the plan. Four episodes had been fully completed by the time of injury. 

The show will now have to reshoot everything with the new actor who will take over the role as Kratos. Co-lead Atreus is played by child actor Callum Vinson, which means it would be hard to reuse footage as kids grow up fast. 

Other members of cast includes Mandy Patinkin as Odin, Ed Skrein as Baldur, Max Parker as Heimdall, Ólafur Darri Ólafsson as Thor, Teresa Palmer as Sif, Alastair Duncan as Mimir, Jeff Gulka as Sindri and Danny Woodburn as Brok.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468501/kratos-is-being-recast-in-live-action-god-of-war-show-following-major-injury-on-set/

The game released in China for iOS and Android in June 2025.

Read the full message from LightSpeed Studios below:

Dear Adventurers,

Thank you for your support for Final Fantasy XIV Mobile (Chinese Edition) as always.

On the launch day of Final Fantasy XIV Mobile (Chinese Edition) in the Chinese mainland, we said, "Resonate with the Light, and blaze as one," and promised that the adventure had just begun. Over this time, it is you who have truly brought "Mobile Eorzea" to life. Every suggestion you shared on gameplay, experiences, and features guided us to build the game world. Seasoned Warriors of Light stepped up as mentors, walking newcomers through the confusion of their first steps into Eorzea. And countless mornings and nights spent fighting side by side came together to form the vast, warm community we once envisioned together. To have resonated with all of you adventurers on this journey has been the greatest fortune of this world we built together, and a memory we will always treasure.

Today, however, we must regretfully share an important announcement. Due to adjustments in business operations and changes in the market environment, Tencent and Square Enix have, through amicable negotiation, decided to terminate the licensing agreement for Final Fantasy XIV Mobile (Chinese Edition). We are sorry to announce that we will officially stop the game operation for Final Fantasy XIV Mobile (Chinese Edition) in the Chinese mainland at 11:00 (UTC+8) on September 30, 2026.

To everyone who has journeyed with us until now, we sincerely apologize that we must end this service without being able to fully live up to your expectations. At the same time, we wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to all of you who have supported us along the way. Thank you, truly, from the bottom of our hearts. To everyone who has been looking forward to the global version, we also offer our sincere apologies for being unable to meet your expectations.

Service Termination Schedule

• 18:00 (UTC+8), July 17, 2026 — In-game top-ups and new user registrations will be suspended.
• 11:00 (UTC+8), September 30, 2026 — Game operations will officially cease. The game servers and the official website will be shut down, and players will no longer be able to log in.
• 11:00 (UTC+8), October 15, 2026 — The forums and dedicated customer support will be closed.

Except as otherwise required by laws and regulations, or otherwise agreed in the agreement between Tencent and users, we will delete the account data, character information, and other related data of players who registered and played in the Chinese mainland, in accordance with the Personal Information Protection Law after the game servers are shut down.

There are 76 days remaining until the service ends. To accompany everyone through this final journey in Final Fantasy XIV Mobile (Chinese Edition), our team will do our best. Thank you again for your support.

Final Fantasy XIV Mobile (Chinese Edition) Operations Team

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468500/final-fantasy-xiv-mobile-worldwide-release-cancelled/

View the trailer below:

Read details on the game below:

An all-new take on the iconic character, based on Marvel comics.

From Insomniac Games, the developers of the critically acclaimed Marvel’s Spider-Man franchise, comes Marvel’s Wolverine.

As he searches for answers about his past, Wolverine will do whatever it takes—unleashing brutal claw combat, violent rage and relentless determination—to cut through the mystery of the man he used to be.

Developed in collaboration with Marvel Games and Sony Interactive Entertainment.

The Ultimate Wolverine Fantasy

Marvel’s Wolverine is built on Insomniac Games staples like fast, fluid, and ferocious combat; exhilarating, action-packed set pieces; robust accessibility features; and a gripping story that taps into the core tenets of one of the most compelling comic book characters of all time. The game will explore Logan’s signature spin on heroism—which is much darker and more brutal than you might expect from Insomniac.

Iconic Characters

Independence is often the way of Wolverine, although he’ll encounter familiar faces on his journey, like the elusive Mystique and the brutish Omega Red. Some will fight alongside Logan against all odds, while others will unleash all-out attacks, such as the Reavers, an enemy faction that will keep our hero’s instincts on edge.

A Globe-Spanning Thriller

In this original story, Wolverine is on the hunt to uncover the secrets of a dark past that keeps eluding him. His search for answers will send him on perilous excursions to exotic locales, including the island nation of Madripoor, the frosted wilderness of Canada and the narrow city streets of Tokyo—all potential battlegrounds for fierce, bloody, destructive action.

Marvel's Wolverine will launch for the PlayStation 5 on September 15.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468499/marvels-wolverine-gets-aint-no-hero-trailer/

This monthly series compares the aligned Japanese sales of the Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch 1.

The Nintendo Switch 2 launched in June 2025 in Japan and the Nintendo Switch launched in March 2017. Therefore, the normal holiday periods and the Japanese Golden Week holiday for the two consoles do not lineup.

Switch 2 Vs. Switch 1 Japan:

Gap change in latest month: 89,096 - Switch 1

Gap change over last 12 months: 1,395,274 - Switch 2

Total Lead: 2,147,306 - Switch 2

Switch 2 Total Sales: 6,164,532

Switch 1 Total Sales: 4,017,226

June 2026 is the 13th month that the Nintendo Switch 2 has been available for in Japan. During the latest month, the Switch 1 has outsold the Switch 2 by 0.09 million units when you align the launches.

In the last 12 months, the Switch 2 has outsold the Switch 1 by 1.40 million units. The Switch 2 is ahead of the Switch 1 by 2.15 million units.

The 12th month for the Switch 2 is June 2026, while for the Switch 1 it is March 2018. The Switch 2 has sold 6.16 million units, while the Switch 1 sold 4.02 million units during the same timeframe.

The Nintendo Switch 1 has sold 36.96 million units to date. The Switch 2 is currently 30.80 million units behind the lifetime sales of the Switch 1.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468441/switch-2-vs-switch-1-sales-comparison-in-japan-june-2026/

View a new video on the game below:

Read new details on the game below:

Hot Wheels Infinite Rush immerses players in a die-cast-scale world spread across four dynamic, freely explorable islands. Each island has a distinctive visual identity and blends a variety of racing challenges, unexpected obstacles, and hidden collectables, offering a captivating experience designed to foster exploration and high-speed fun.

Players begin their journey in the bustling streets of Wheelswood, the island that captures the energy of a modern metropolis, tasked with finding the best route through long straightaways, towering skyscrapers, and narrow side streets. With sandy beaches, green parks, and crystal-clear waters, Tentacle Bay offers a more relaxed setting dominated by nature and enriched by a rocky area and an archaeological park. Gearville shifts the tone into a harsh desert island full of deep canyons, industrial excavation sites, massive factories, and heavy machinery. Finally, Drifty Temples transports players to a twilight setting inspired by East Asian aesthetics, where neon-lit city streets meet blooming cherry trees, water canals, and ancient temples, all watched over by a giant dragon. The four islands are interconnected through the Launcher, a teleportation system that allows players to jump between islands at any time.

The new trailer highlights the variety of free-roaming activities available, with races being just one of the many ways to experience the game. In Daredevil challenges, players can take on special vehicles spotted in traffic and add them to their collection, while in Delivery Stunts they must drive assigned vehicles to their destination while balancing speed and precision – every collision causes damage, and successfully completing the delivery rewards them with the Hot Wheels vehicle. Stuntman activities flip the objective, as the goal is to smash as many objects as possible, while Tourist challenges focus on capturing specific photo targets, asking players to take pictures based on given prompts and framing requirements, often set against scenic locations and island hotspots. In Find the Flame, the goal is to reach a spot as fast as possible without following a set route, while a range of Stunt activities focused on mastering drift zones, boost sections, and speed challenges further expands the action. Collectables scattered throughout the maps encourage exploration and ensure long-term replayability.

Four distinct vehicle classes, each featuring unique handling and upgrade systems, allow players to find the perfect Hot Wheels for every event as they progress through the islands and unlock the full roster of over 150 vehicles.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468498/hot-wheels-infinite-rush-release-date-moved-up/

View the trailer below:

Read the new details below:

The World

Dilmagia, the Machinopolis

Engineers abound in this steel-forged city, the birthplace of airship technology. Dilmagia was once home to the first Cid, a master airship mechanic who developed the technology that united man and sky. As time passed, “Cid” stopped referring to a single individual, and the finest engineer of each age now takes on his name.

Olderion, the Aquapolis

The capital of the Olderion Federation, blessed with abundant, crystalline waters. Olderion has long been safeguarded by a clan known as the Wardens of the Waters. The city is kept safe by the prayers of the Maiden of Water, and by an esper known to the locals as the God of Water. Before the proliferation of airships, the city was a juggernaut in the shipbuilding industry and a thriving naval transport hub.

Characters

Lid (voiced by Elsie Lovelock in Englihs, Ayaka Ohashi in Japanese)

An airship engineer from Dirnado, Lid—along with her brother—has been helping out around the family forge since she could first hold a wrench. All her time tinkering with machines has put her in easy contention for becoming the next “Cid,” an honor bestowed upon the top engineer in Dilmagia.

Lid fights alongside Mechabo, a mechanical chocobo of her own creation.

• Lid can deliver attacks with her trusty partner, Mechabo. Complete special subquests to unlock new skills and help it grow stronger!

Nichol (voiced by Khoi Dao in English, Tsubasa Yonaga in Japanese)

A strategist for the Olderion Federation. Having been brought up in a family of Wardens of the Waters—longtime guardians of the Water Shrine—Nichol’s passion for defending his homeland far exceeds most.

Nichol is tactical, objective and never loses sight of the bigger picture. Despite this, he often gets roped into Rain and co.’s shenanigans.

Veritas of the Heavens (voiced by Ricco Fajardo in English, Show Hayami in Japanese)

One of the Sworn Six of Paladia. Hard to read and impossible to outmaneuver, he seeks the destruction of the Crystals with cold dispassion, dominating the skies with his lance and wind-aspected techniques.

Veritas of the Waters (voiced by Colleen Clinkenbeard in English, Kana Hanazawa in Japanese)

One of the Sworn Six. Arrogant, driven and ruthless, she would employ any underhanded tactic to destroy the Crystals. She wields a veritable deluge of water magic to smite her foes.Gameplay System: Visions

Visions

Crystallized essences of legendary heroes, including warriors from other Final Fantasy realms, who fight alongside Rain and his companions when their vision crystals are equipped.

• You may use the magic and abilities of visions who fight alongside you. The stronger your bond with a vision grows, the more abilities of theirs you can unlock.
• Staggering all enemies in one turn will allow you to trigger a Resonance with a vision and perform an exceptionally devastating attack.
• To obtain vision crystals, visit the Sanctums of Light that have been erected around the world.

Visions Characters

Aileen

A weaponsmith who is as adept at wielding weapons as she is forging them. She’s also an expert at lowering enemies’ defenses, thanks to her Pilebunker.

Weapon Manufacturing

Aileen not only aids the party in battle, she also forges powerful weapons for them…but requires precious adamantite to do so.

Adamantite can be found the world over, often appearing in the treasure chests that lie within dangerous crypts, or as a reward for completing side content.

Famous Final Fantasy Visions

Cecil

Former captain of the Red Wings, the empire’s airship fleet. He employs both light and dark elemental attacks, but can also defend and heal, making him quite versatile.

Bartz

A young man who travels the world on his chocobo companion Boko. He wields a sword imbued with fire and ice magic and can stagger foes with relative ease.

Squall

A candidate for SeeD, an organization that was formed to rid the world of sorceresses. The more he uses standard attacks in battle, the more damage he deals with them.

Zidane

A member of Tantalus, a theater troupe and thieves’ band. This thief, however, doesn’t just steal items—he can also sap enemies’ vitality and speed while augmenting his own abilities.

Tidus

A renowned blitzball player from Zanarkand. He turns the tide of battle by increasing the party’s speed with Haste, then assailing his foes with wind and water attacks to stagger them.

Gameplay System: Espers

Over the course of the story, you’ll enlist the help of espers—entities that join the battle for three turns before unleashing an immensely destructive attack.

Ifrit

While Ifrit’s horns are intimidating, his Hellfire ability, which immolates all who oppose him with fire damage, is even more so.

Shiva

This long-haired nymph decimates all foes with her ice ability Diamond Dust.

Titan

Sealed away long ago, this colossus unleashes Gaia’s Wrath on all opponents, dealing them massive amounts of earth damage.

For Completionists

Collectibles / Minigames

Collect tablet shards strewn about the world to acquire items that will aid you on your journey.

Reap rewards from performing well in the minigames that await you in each town.

• Test your timing by jumping rope.
• Try to catch wily moogles in Mog Tag

High-difficulty content that requires well-developed characters and perfect party composition, such as:

The Colosseum

ight daunting foes and receive items for dispatching them. The stronger the foes, the more enticing the rewards.

In higher leagues, go up against some of the most familiar—and ferocious—faces in the Final Fantasy series

The Twelve Legendary Arms

These weapons are some of the most powerful in the world, but can only be claimed after defeating the ruthless monstrosities sealed within

If you’re ever unsure as to where one of these weapons is located, visit the Chamber of Arms.

Final Fantasy Resonance will launch for the Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC on October 22.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468497/final-fantasy-resonance-gets-new-details-and-pixel-trailer/

View the release window trailer below:

Read details on the game below:

See the world through the eyes of a brave mouse in this enchanting 3D adventure. Explore breathtaking Scandinavian-inspired landscapes, solve puzzles, and be a force for good in a land where heartwarming storytelling and the beauty of nature intertwine.

Hela: of Mice & Magic encourages you to work hand-in-hand to overcome the challenges that lie ahead. Play solo or with friends through local split-screen multiplayer or online cooperative play as you delve into lush, vibrant vistas together, from rugged mountains trails, through magical forests, to tranquil lakes.

Key Features:

• Explore and Discover – Traverse an expansive, lovingly crafted region inspired by Scandinavia, full of magical forests, tranquil lakes, and rugged mountains.
• Magical Backpack – Use your trusty backpack to interact with the world, collect resources, and solve puzzles.
• Realistic Physics – Engage with objects that behave realistically, adding a layer of immersion to your magical excursions.
• Dynamic Environments – Adapt to a world that is constantly changing, and contend with the adversity of the natural world.
• Puzzle Solving – Challenge your mind with engaging puzzles that blend seamlessly with the story, enriching your journey with rewarding challenge.
• Heal the World – Influence the world of Hela: of Mice & Magic through acts of kindness, witnessing their transformative effects on characters and yourself.
• Play Together – Experience the journey solo or together with friends through local split-screen or online modes.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468496/hela-of-mice-amp-magic-launches-in-q4-2026-for-switch-2-ps5-xbox-series-and-pc/

The update adds GameShare via GameChat support, the Black Hole Racket, the Galaxy Court stage, the Galaxy Court special match, new color options for Luma, Mario's classic outfit, and more.

Read the patch notes below:

Added “GameShare” and ”Play via GameChat”

• Added functionality to play the game with friends on GameChat who don’t have the game.
• In “Play via GameChat,” you can play tennis matches with swing controls in addition to tennis matches with button controls and games in Mix It Up.

  Note: A Nintendo Switch Online membership is required to use GameChat.

Added a New Fever Racket, the “Black Hole Racket”

• The new “Black Hole Racket” Fever Racket has been added which causes a black hole when the Fever Shot hits the ground.
• The black hole it causes has the effect of pulling players who are nearby into the black hole when it gets large.
• Your HP Gauge will take damage if you get close to the black hole. If your HP reaches 0 due to the black hole and you are knocked out, you will be sucked into the black hole.
• Black holes do not have the effect of drawing in incoming balls.

Added a New Court, the “Galaxy Court”

• A new court has been added based on Super Mario Galaxy.
• The court is made on a distant planet, and although the ball speed isn’t particularly fast, balls have a high bounce.
• The court has a different shape depending on whether you are playing Free Play or Ranked Match matches, or in Special Match.

Added a New Special Match, “Galaxy Court Match”

• Special “Galaxy Court Match” match rules have been added where you play on a spherical court made on a distant planet.
• As the match progresses, one of three types of “Prankster Comets” will appear and will greatly change the strategy of the match.

Added New Colors for Luma

• Added five new colors of Luma as playable characters.

Added Mario’s Classic Outfit

• Added Mario’s classic outfit as a reward for collecting 5 medals.

Changes to Character Specifications

• Changed specifications of some characters.

Changes to Fever Racket Specifications

• Changed specifications of some Fever Rackets.

Changes to Shot Behavior

• Adjusted the star point detection to make it easier to execute Star Shots.

Other Changes

• In addition to the new “Galaxy Court”, you can now select “Academy Court (Grass),” “Academy Court (Hard),” and “Academy Court (Clay)” in court selection.
• You can now select “Random” on the racket selection screen. If you select “Continue” when the match ends, you can compete with a different racket each match.
• Added an option to disable pressing the A Button and B Button simultaneously to hit a flat shot.
• Adjusted how modes are randomly selected for “Search All Modes” in for Ranked Match matches.
• Added “Galaxy Court” as a Ranked Match court and adjusted the order courts appear in.
• Made it so when you’re playing the “Racket Factory Match” special game, if you don’t have a FV Gauge bar filled when picking up a Fever Racket, your FV Gauge will fill up to 1 bar.
• Several other adjustments and fixes have been made to improve the gameplay experience.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468495/mario-tennis-fever-update-adds-new-court-racket-special-match-and-more/

The game first released for PC via Steam in December 2024.

View a trailer of the game below:

Read details on the game below:

Neko Odyssey is a game for cat lovers you can’t miss!

Here’s a slightly unusual casual adventure game where the main gameplay centers around taking pictures of cats. The pixel art graphics in a 3D setting create a charming atmosphere reminiscent of Japanese animation.

In the game, you’ll have to search for cats in various locations throughout the town and take pictures to upload to social media (in game). Each photo you upload will earn likes from netizens. As you receive more likes, you’ll become better known, and your followers may offer tips on finding new and different cat poses.

During the cat photography sessions, some cats may require you to establish a connection with them before allowing you to photograph them. You’ll also encounter certain events that will lead you to discover new photo opportunities.

Apart from taking cat photos and sharing them on social media, the game features a main storyline where you’ll unravel the mysteries of the town based on the information you capture in your cat photos. You’ll experience excitement, cuteness, and inspiration along with the adventure in this game.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468494/neko-odyssey-launches-july-30-for-switch/

The game is currently available for PC via Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG.

View the Switch 2 announcement trailer below:

Read details on the game below:

A one-of-a-kind experience: bow x bullet hell x roguelike.

Ira fuses roguelike action with bullet-hell shooting in a way never seen before. Players take on the role of Yeon, a young girl guided by fate to wield the power of Ira—a Protection Stone born from the prayers of a lost god—as she battles to save a world consumed by chaos.

Across 4 areas and 7 stages set in a hauntingly beautiful yet perilous world, players must master both normal shots and charged attacks, read enemy patterns, weave through dense bullet curtains, and strike with precision. Thanks to the roguelike structure, map layouts, item drops, and upgrade paths change with every run.

With over 160 bows, over 150 items, and over 43 synergies, no two runs feel the same—delivering massive replayability for action game fans.

Story

Long ago, the world was engulfed in Chaos—ruled by violence and fear.

Born from humanity’s prayers, the God of Order shared divine power with apostles and drove back the darkness, bringing peace to the world. But foreseeing both its own demise and the return of Chaos, the God used its last strength to create a single Protection Stone. That stone ascended to the heavens and came to be known as “Ira”—a symbol of order, passed down through generations.

Now, as Chaos creeps back into the world, a young woman named Yeon is drawn by a bond stretching across the ages. Chosen to inherit the power of Ira, she sets forth to determine the fate of the world.

Key Features:

• Deep Build Variety – Choose a “Blessing” from multiple options each time you level up to craft your strategy. Over 160 bows, over 150 items, and over 43 synergies mean your playstyle transforms dramatically depending on your build.
• Apostle Support System – Apostles—once servants of the God of Order—join you in battle. Unleash devastating ultimate skills and passive effects that can turn the tide of combat.
• Just-Dodge Bullet Time – Perfectly timed dodges trigger Bullet Time, slowing the world around you and giving you the edge in split-second survival.
• 4K Resolution / 60 Frames Per Second on Nintendo Switch 2 – Leveraging the power of Nintendo Switch 2, IRA delivers 4K resolution at 60 frames per second—making every bullet pattern crystal clear and visually stunning.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468493/bullet-hell-roguelike-ira-launches-july-30-for-switch-2/

The game first released for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch on February 12.

The free content update will add new playable character Platinum, an upgraded Training Space, new branching route options for each run, and more.

Users who own the Switch version of the game will be able to upgrade to the Switch 2 version with the Upgrade Pack for $1.99. The Switch 2 version will feature enhanced visuals, an improved frame rate, GameShare support, and exclusive bonus content.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468492/blazblue-entropy-effect-x-launches-august-13-for-switch-2/

Magical Girl Witch Trials (NS) debuted in second place with sales of 21,283 units. Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced (PS5) debuted in fourth place with sales of 17,152 units. Echoes of Aincrad: Sword Art Online (NS) debuted in fifth place with sales of 16,092 units.

Digimon Story: Time Stranger (NS2) debuted in sixth place with sales of 15,644 units. The Switch version debuted in eighth place with sales of 11,251 units.

Granblue Fantasy: Relink – Endless Ragnarok (NS2) debuted in seventh place with sales of 12,544 units. CRAZY CHA!N: Elpis no Kusari (NS) debuted in ninth place with sales of 9,874 units.

Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream (NS) is in third place with sales of 20,827 units and Powerful Pro Baseball 2026-2027 (NS) came in 10th place with sales of 8,917 units.

The Nintendo Switch 2 was the best-selling platform with 28,755  units sold. The PlayStation 5 sold 11,394 units, the Switch 1 sold 8,712 units, and the Xbox Series X|S sold 157 units.

Here are the best-selling games in Japan:

1. NSW] Rhythm Heaven Groove (Nintendo, 07/02/26) – 126,073 (519,451)
2. [NSW] Magical Girl Witch Trials (Acacia, 07/09/26) – 21,283 (New)
3. [NSW] Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream (Nintendo, 04/16/26) – 20,827 (1,457,949)
4. [PS5] Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced (Ubisoft, 07/09/26) – 17,152 (New)
5. [PS5] Echoes of Aincrad: Sword Art Online (Bandai Namco, 07/09/26) – 16,092 (New)
6. [SW2] Digimon Story: Time Stranger (Bandai Namco, 07/09/26) – 15,644 (New)
7. [SW2] Granblue Fantasy: Relink – Endless Ragnarok (Cygames, 07/09/26) – 12,544 (New)
8. [NSW] Digimon Story: Time Stranger (Bandai Namco, 07/09/26) – 11,251 (New)
9. [NSW] CRAZY CHA!N: Elpis no Kusari (Idea Factory, 07/09/26) – 9,874 (New)
10. [NSW] Powerful Pro Baseball 2026-2027 (Konami, 06/11/26) – 8,917 (168,513)

Here is the hardware breakdown (followed by lifetime sales):

1. Switch 2 – 28,755 (6,026,931)
2. PlayStation 5 Digital Edition – 10,657 (1,353,255)
3. Switch OLED Model – 4,056 (9,607,157)
4. Switch Lite – 4,040 (6,992,757)
5. Switch – 616 (20,303,993)
6. PlayStation 5 Pro – 473 (366,699)
7. PlayStation 5 – 264 (5,921,490)
8. Xbox Series X Digital Edition – 109 (33,077)
9. Xbox Series S – 33 (342,685)
10. Xbox Series X – 15 (328,252)

Previous week - Week 27, 2026

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468491/assassinrsquos-creed-black-flag-resynced-and-more-debut-on-the-japanese-charts-switch-2-sells-29k/

The game first released for the PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and PC via Steam in November 2023.

View the Switch 2 release date trailer below:

Read details on the game below:

Two worlds, one fateful encounter.

Experience your favorite classics on your Nintendo Switch 2!

The highly acclaimed second instalment in the Star Ocean series, returns as Star Ocean: The Second Story R.

Brought to life with a unique 2.5D aesthetic, which fuses 2D pixel characters and 3D environments, this remake includes everything that made the original release so great while adding new elements too!

Experience new battle mechanics, full Japanese and English voice overs, original and re-arranged music, fast-travel and so much more!

Discover the definitive version of a classic but modernized JRPG that’s perfect for newcomers and long-time fans alike.

Story

Space Date 366.

A Federation officer finds himself transported to a mystical planet. While searching for a way home, an encounter with a young girl draws him into a quest to save her people, just as an ancient prophecy foretold…

Choose your path and witness an awakened destiny.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468490/star-ocean-the-second-story-r-out-now-for-switch-2/

The game is currently available for the Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam.

View the Xbox Series release date trailer below:

Read details on the game below:

From the writers and  directors of Tales from the Borderlands and The Wolf Among Us, Dispatch is a superhero workplace comedy set in modern day Los Angeles.

You play as Robert Robertson, AKA Mecha Man, whose mech-suit is destroyed in a battle against his nemesis, forcing him to take a job at a superhero dispatch center: not as a hero, but a dispatcher. In charge of rehabilitating a group of ex-supervillains, you must manage your roster while navigating office relationships and rebuilding your suit for a shot at revenge.

Shape Your Story

In Dispatch, every decision you make influences the unfolding narrative. From banter in the breakroom to life-or-death situations in the field, your choices affect your relationships with the heroes, their allegiances, and the path your own story takes.

Deploy Your Heroes

Use the strategy map to review ongoing emergencies and deploy the right (or wrong) heroes to deal with them. Balance the risks and rewards as you make tactical decisions, knowing that each choice can have lasting consequences for your team and the city.

Manage Your Roster

Managing heroes sometimes goes beyond their powers. Each hero comes with quirks, flaws, and baggage you’ll need to navigate to keep the team together. Upgrade their skills and unlock abilities to boost their effectiveness in the field.

Blending narrative, strategy, and humor, Dispatch explores what it means to be a hero, whether you’re wearing a cape or behind a desk.

Meet the Misfits

Featuring an all-star cast from every corner of entertainment, including:

• Aaron Paul (Breaking Bad, Westworld, Black Mirror)
• Laura Bailey (The Legend of Vox Machina, The Last of Us II, Marvel’s Spider-Man)
• Erin Yvette (Hades II, The Wolf Among Us, Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon)
• MoistCr1TiKaL (Charles White)
• Jacksepticeye (Sonic Prime, River City Girls, River City Girls 2, Bendy and the Ink Machine)
• Travis Willingham (The Legend of Vox Machina, Critical Role, LEGO Avengers)
• Alanah Pearce (V/H/S Beyond, Cyberpunk 2077, Gears 5)
• Lance Cantstopolis (Karate, Dancing, Actor)
• Joel Haver (Filmmaker, Actor, YouTuber)
• THOT SQUAD (Musician: Pound Cake, Hoes Depressed)
• Matthew Mercer (Critical Role, Overwatch, Resident Evil 6)
• Jeffrey Wright (American Fiction, The Batman, Casino Royale)

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468489/dispatch-launches-july-29-for-xbox-series/

View the Early Access trailer below:

Read details on the game below:

Tired and confused, you awake engulfed in darkness, in a prison that appears to have no end, known as the Vitromotus. Your memories are clouded, but your desire for freedom allows you to endure.

With nothing but your wits and might, you carve your way out with determination, eager to embrace the light of the sun. Yet, as despair slowly consumes your spirit, a ray of hope shines forward. Imprisoned like countless others, the denizens of a once thriving town, now ravaged by vicious forces, await your aid.

As you rescue them from various, terrible fates, they will lend their skills and help you rebuild their homes. You will learn their trades, secrets, and dreams while assisting them in their many quests. And perhaps, in time, become a legend in the chronicles of their land: Emberville.

Rebuild the Town

• Meet and rescue an array of quaint characters along your way. They will show you their gratitude with amazing rewards and useful teachings.
• Get to know the denizens of Emberville, hear their stories, and, if you dare, read their diaries while they are not looking; Fulfill quests, engage with townsfolk, unlock mechanics, and more.
• Aid the villagers in rebuilding their town through a large variety of gathering and crafting professions. As Emberville restores itself, it will become a living hub shaped by your deeds.

Venture into the Eternal Prison

• Intended as a magical confinement for the unwanted elements of a once great society, the Vitromotus stands instead as a testament to their arrogance and corruption. Find a way to escape it and, if you so desire, aid those unfortunate enough to have been left behind.
• Explore the knowledge hidden in its forgotten tunnels, ruins, survivors settlements and threatening environments, and unlock the secrets behind this energy known as kymia, a mysterious power born from emotions that brings those trapped within the Vitromotus back to life.
• Over the years, the influence of kymia reshaped the world inside the prison, bringing about strange biomes and bizarre monsters. Brave its depths and learn what hides beneath; you may discover that, perhaps, not all of these creatures are as terrible as you imagine.

Fight Your Way

• From sinister creatures to fearsome bosses, face enemies in action-focused combat that rewards positioning, timing, and knowledge.
• Unlock unique weapon-bound combos for a variety of weapons and chain different types of attacks to unleash devastating strikes on enemies.
• Learn, choose and use different skills from a big range of combat classes that can inherit passive and active skills from other learnt classes.

Customize and Improve Your Character

• Enhance your character with an ample collection of skills and weapons that can be improved through leveling, items, and the help of villagers you rescue.
• As you gain experience in battle and complete quests, choose from a wide selection of classes that can be changed at any time, each with its own distinctive gameplay and abilities.
• The deeper you venture, the stronger your foes will be. You will have abundant opportunities to experiment with various fighting techniques to find the build and weapon category that better suits your playstyle.
• Create and customize your character with dozens of options of hair styles, beards, facial features, colors, and more.

Build Your Estate

• Customize your personal space within Emberville where you will be able to craft anything needed to help your journey through the Vitromotous and transform your homestead into a comfortable place to relax, from buildings to furniture, plants, and decorations.
• Gather a myriad of unique materials to forge not only your combat equipment, but also useful potions, food, tools, and trinkets.
• Progress not only through combat, but also exploration, rebuilding, and the various choices you will have to make through your adventure.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468488/emberville-launches-on-october-27-for-pc-in-early-access/

View the trailer below;

Read the new details via PlayStation Blog below:

Suit up, Rangers! Pre-registration for Ratchet & Clank: Ranger Rumble is now open worldwide on the App Store and Google Play. To celebrate, we’re launching a community rewards campaign, headlined by a reward we think Ratchet & Clank fans will especially love: the exclusive Clank Suit skin for Widget.

Since the game’s reveal a few months ago, we’ve been testing and refining the experience through regional soft launches in Canada, the Nordics, France, and Asia. After a successful testing phase shaped by player feedback, Ratchet & Clank: Ranger Rumble is now gearing up for global launch, and pre-registration is the first step on that journey. We can’t wait for what’s coming next!

What is Ratchet & Clank: Ranger Rumble?

Ratchet & Clank: Ranger Rumble is a free-to-play multiplayer hero shooter that brings the iconic franchise to mobile, developed by Oh Bibi in collaboration with PlayStation Studios and Insomniac Games. Captain Qwark has created a revolutionary combat Simulation to find the next generation of Galactic Rangers. But, well… it’s Qwark. So once you step into the Arena, anything can happen.

Players choose from legendary heroes, master unique abilities, and unleash an arsenal of explosive weapons in real-time PvP arena battles, enhanced by dynamic PvE elements that add depth and variety to every match.

The hero lineup is something we’re especially proud of. With 12 Heroes available at launch, and more to come, each character brings a fresh new perspective to the Ratchet & Clank universe.

Players will discover brand-new characters never seen before in the series: legendary heroes from the past, each with their own story and personality. From robots, aliens to new Lombaxes, every hero has a unique playstyle, design, and exclusive cosmetics.

For Oh Bibi, it was a real privilege to collaborate directly with Insomniac Games on the design and backstories of the new Lombaxes, including insights from some of the original developers and designers behind the series’ most iconic titles. Bringing these characters to life inside the Simulation has been a true passion project for the creative team, and we can’t wait for players to meet them.

At launch, Ratchet & Clank: Ranger Rumble features six distinct game modes, giving players plenty of ways to jump into the action. Squad up with friends in fast-paced team PvP battles, take on waves of enemies in PvE, or discover fresh twists to the license, including a battle royale-inspired mode and a football-inspired showdown where every goal comes with a little extra firepower (and yes, it’s football, not soccer!).

Whether you’re chasing competitive wins, looking for co-op chaos, or simply excited to experience the Ratchet & Clank universe in a brand-new way, there’s a Rumble for you. Every mode is built around the fast, inventive, over-the-top action that has always defined the series.

Respecting the legacy, reimagining the action

Staying true to the series has been at the heart of the project from day one. The signature humor, beloved characters, and gloriously inventive weaponry that have defined Ratchet & Clank for over two decades are all here, reimagined for fast-paced battles built specifically for mobile, with new characters and weapons to discover.

Music has also been a huge part of development. We drew inspiration from the music of the early games to capture that dynamic, nostalgic Ratchet & Clank tone we wanted for Ranger Rumble. One of the most rewarding moments for the team has been seeing longtime fans connect with that legacy and even ask us to release the soundtrack on streaming platforms. For the team, that kind of connection with longtime fans has been incredibly rewarding.

As longtime players and fans ourselves, we know how much this universe means to people. That’s why our ambition was never just to bring Ratchet & Clank to mobile, but to create a game that feels like it truly belongs in the series. Mobile brings a new way to jump into the action, but the goal has always been clear: deliver a polished, authentic experience that respects the franchise, its legacy, and the players who love 

How the pre-registration rewards work

The rewards campaign is a true community effort. Every pre-registration counts toward global milestones, and each milestone reached will unlock new in-game rewards* for everyone. Players can earn Qredits, Reebos, and Raritanium to get a strong head start when the game launches.

And the campaign’s ultimate reward? The exclusive Clank Suit skin for Widget! If the final community milestone is reached, every player will be able to unlock it at global launch.

All rewards will be delivered to players when the game launches. So you know what to do, Ranger. Captain Qwark is counting on you

Pre-register today, and get ready for the rumble

Head to www.rangerrumble.com to pre-register now on the App Store and Google Play, available worldwide.

Until launch, the team is hard at work polishing the game, expanding the experience, and preparing a few exciting surprises for players to discover. Some of what’s coming may already be hiding in the screenshots throughout this article…

We can’t wait to share more soon, and we look forward to seeing you in the Simulation at launch. Get ready, Ranger — the Rumble is just getting started!

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468487/ratchet-amp-clank-ranger-rumble-gets-new-trailer-and-details/

The PlayStation Plus monthly games for July were made available earlier this month and include Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III for PS5 and PS4, For the King II for PS5 and PS4, and CrossCode for PS5 and PS4.

Check out the latest information below:

PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium | Game Catalog 

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora | PS5

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a first-person, action-adventure game set in the open world of the never-before-seen Western Frontier of Pandora. Abducted by the human militaristic corporation known as the RDA, you, a Na’vi, were trained and moulded to serve their purpose. Fifteen years later, you are free, but find yourself a stranger in your birthplace. Reconnect with your lost heritage, discover what it truly means to be Na’vi, and join other clans to protect Pandora from the RDA.

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora will be available globally July 21.

Rise of the Ronin | PS5

Embark on an epic journey across war-torn 19th-century Japan in this combat-focused open-world action RPG from Team Ninja, the veteran studio behind Nioh and Ninja Gaiden. Japan, 1863. After three centuries of the Tokugawa Shogunate’s reign, the Black Ships of the West descend upon the nation’s borders and the country falls into a state of turmoil. Amidst the chaos of war, disease and political unrest, a nameless warrior forges their own path, holding the very fate of Japan in their hands.

Rise of the Ronin will be available today, July 15 in the US and the UK, and July 16 in Japan.

Firefighting Simulator: Ignite | PS5

Face unpredictable dangers head-on, fight perilous fires with your crew, and save lives in Firefighting Simulator: Ignite. Step into the boots of a U.S. firefighter in a sprawling city in the American Midwest, where every mission pushes your skills to the limit. Experience the rush of firefighting in stunning visual quality in an intuitive and cooperative multiplayer mode with 3 friends or with the help of your NPC controlled crew. Battle raging and dynamic flames, heat, and smoke – all simulated in real time. Cutting-edge physics & graphics systems powered by Unreal Engine 5 let you experience firefighting immersion like never before.

Firefighting Simulator: Ignite will be available globally July 21.

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita’s Rewind | PS5, PS4

In the action-packed 2-D brawler Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita’s Rewind, the team faces off against a robotic reincarnation of the Power Rangers’ long-time nemesis. Robo Rita has conjured a portal to send herself back in time so she can finally vanquish the Power Rangers by forming an alliance with her younger self. Working together, Robo Rita and Rita Repulsa rewind, rewrite, and remix the past in an attempt to stop the very formation of the Power Rangers, altering the course of history. Will the two Ritas and their army of monstrous enemies from across the MMPR timeline finally succeed in destroying the Power Rangers? Or will these teenagers with attitude learn to work together and counter this catastrophic chronological collaboration?

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita’s Rewind will be available July 28 in the US, the UK and Japan.

Dying Light | PS4

From the creators of hit titles Dead Island and Call of Juarez comes Dying Light, the game whose uncompromising approach to gameplay set new standards for first-person zombie games. Survive in a city beset by a zombie virus. Engage in gory combat and discover limitless options to confront your enemies, or join forces with other players to raise your chances of survival in an exciting co-op mode. Will loyalty to your superiors prove stronger than the will to save the survivors? The choice is yours…

Dying Light will be available July 28 in the US, the UK and Japan.

Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector | PS5

You are a sleeper, an emulation of a human mind housed in an artificial body. You are on the run from the corporation that made you and the gang that seeks to control you. Commandeer a ship, build a network of crew and allies, and take on challenging contracts as you seek to build a future for yourself. Choose a class, configure your skills and assemble your crew in unique tabletop-inspired gameplay. Your future depends on the roll of a dice, as you make difficult choices in a complex world. Reinventing the award-winning systems of Citizen Sleeper, this RPG will satisfy both fans of the original game and new players alike.

Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector will be available July 28 in the US, the UK and Japan.

Snow Bros. Wonderland | PS5

The legendary Snow Bros. series began over 30 years ago. Snow Bros. Wonderland is the newest chapter—and boy, has a lot changed in the last couple of decades! For starters, the graphics aren’t two-dimensional anymore; the new game offers a gorgeous 3D isometric style. Armed with an endless supply of ice pellets, gamers can turn monsters into snowballs, which can be kicked to destroy whole hordes of foes! Attacks can be chained to take down multiple enemies at once, and your snowball skills will be put to the ultimate test against some truly massive bosses. Are you (snow)man enough to defend Snow Land from evil King Atchich?

Snow Bros. Wonderland will be available July 28 in the US, the UK and Japan.

PlayStation Plus Premium

Psi-Ops: The Mindgate Conspiracy | PS5, PS4

Wield psychic powers as elite agent Nick Scryer and unravel a shadowy conspiracy within the Mindgate Project, battling rogue operatives and unleashing telekinesis, mind control, and pyrokinesis across mind-bending levels in Psi-Ops: The Mindgate Conspiracy. Face off against formidable foes like the enigmatic General Grienko and the deadly Six, each with their own unique psychic abilities and motivations. Explore iconic locations such as the secret Mindgate facility and war-torn strongholds, utilizing stealth, environmental manipulation, and a diverse arsenal of psychic powers to overcome challenging puzzles and intense combat scenarios.

Psi-Ops: The Mindgate Conspiracy will be available globally July 21.

Indigo Prophecy | PS5, PS4

Indigo Prophecy is the first interactive drama created by Quantic Dream, the makers of Heavy Rain and Beyond: Two Souls. In this paranormal thriller, New York City is stunned by a series of mysterious murders that follow the same pattern: ordinary people become possessed and kill absolute strangers in public. Play both sides of this breathtaking murder conspiracy and uncover the supernatural forces behind these crimes. Outside North America, Portugal and Fance, the game carried a different title on its original release – Fahrenheit.

Indigo Prophecy will be available globally July 21.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468486/playstation-plus-game-catalog-and-classics-for-july-2026-announced/

Here are the times for the network tests:

• August 21, 2026
  • 3:00 am to 7:00 am PDT
  • 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm PDT
• August 22, 2026
  • 11:00 am to 3:00 pm PDT
• August 23, 2026
  • 3:00 am to 7:00 am PDT
  • 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm PDT

Read details on the network test:

A network test involves using a pre-release version of the game to test performance prior to the commencement of service. We plan to conduct large-scale network load tests to check different technical aspects of the game’s online systems. We look forward to you taking part and helping us make The Duskbloods as good as it can be!

Overview

The primary goals of the network test for The Duskbloods are as follows:

• Game Server Load Test – We will connect large numbers of players simultaneously to verify gameplay while putting a load on the game server.
• Multiplayer Test – We will test for various problems that may occur when multiple people play together in different network environments, and various phenomena that may occur by having many users participate.
• Game Balance Test – When real players test the game together, the developers can gather data about how well the game is balanced.

Gameplay

The network test for The Duskbloods allows for up to eight players to participate together in each of the multiplayer matches while the game is still in development. We ask for your understanding that bugs may occur during gameplay.

The Duskbloods will launch for the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468485/the-duskbloods-closed-network-test-set-for-august-21-to-23/

Year to Date Sales Comparison (Same Periods Covered)

Market Share (Same Periods Covered)

2023 - (January 2023 to June 2023)

2024 - (January 2024 to June 2024)

2025 - (January 2025 to June 2025)

2026 - (January 2026 to June 2026)

"Year to date" sales for 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026 sales are shown in series at the top of the table and then just below a comparison of 2026 versus 2025 and 2026 versus 2024 is displayed.  This provides an easy-to-view summary of all the data.

Total Sales and Market Share for Each Year

Nintendo

• Nintendo Switch 2
• 2.06 million units sold year-to-date
• Up year-on-year 0.75 million units (56.6%)
• Nintendo Switch 1
• 0.46 million units sold year-to-date
• Down year-on-year 0.35 million units (-43.5%)

Sony

• PlayStation 5
• 0.30 million units sold year-to-date
• Down year-on-year 0.16 million units (-34.3%)

Microsoft

• Xbox Series X|S
• 0.01 million units sold year-to-date
• Down year-on-year 0.01 units (-31.4%)

Note: VGChartz 2026, 2025, and 2023 estimates through June includes 26 weeks, while 2024 estimates includes 27 weeks.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468440/2026-japan-sales-comparison-charts-through-june-switch-2-vs-ps5-vs-xbox-series-vs-switch/

An Xbox spokesperson in a statement sent to VGChartz has provided an update.

"We’re continuing to work through the necessary licensor approvals for Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2," said the spokesperson. "We’ll share an update as soon as we have one. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4 is still available on Game Pass. Thanks for your patience."

Original article

Microsoft had originally announced Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+ 2 would be added to Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass on July 21. However, the game is no longer coming to the service despite being first-party.

"We've removed Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2 from the list of titles coming soon to Game Pass," reads an editor's note.

No explanation was given as to why it was removed from the Xbox Game Pass release schedule. Speculation is for a licensing reason as the game is over five years old as it contains copyrighted music.

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+ 2 released for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC in September 2020, for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S in March 2021, and for the Nintendo Switch in June 2021.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468484/update-tony-hawkrsquos-pro-skater-1-2-is-no-longer-coming-to-xbox-game-pass/

The event will feature the Zorua's Hide-and-Sneak Contest, which will let players play hide-and-seek with the Pokémon to win prizes and an new trophy. 

"Zorua can only visit towns with a rebuilt Pokémon Center—so if you want to participate in this event, make sure you have at least one up and running," reads the details on the event.

"For this event, you can also meet up in another player’s world or on a Cloud Island to participate in a contest together! The fastest completion time among all participating players will become the town or Cloud Island’s best record."

Pokémon Pokopia released for the Nintendo Switch 2 on March 5.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468483/next-pokemon-pokopia-event-features-zoruas-hide-and-sneak-contest/

His started working in the video game industry in 1991 working on licensed games. He would be best known for his work on the Dead Space and Call of Duty series. His final game would be, The Callisto Protocol, a spiritual successor to Dead Space.

Schofield also directed games in the Legacy of Kain and Gex series at Crystal Dynamics.

"Some of you know me as a video game make, director," said Schofield. "It's something I'm so proud of and I'm lucky to be able to do this, but after 35 years of making games and directing them - running teams - it's time for me to officially retire from the day-to-day work."

He added, "The past couple of decades have been some of the greatest times in video games. Some of the best games have come out over these times, [from] some of the greatest talent in the world I've been able to work with. I thank you all. I had a front row seat to one of the greatest creative explosions in history.

"To EA, thank you for letting me make Dead Space, Activision, you gave me the keys to three Call of Duty games, and I really appreciate your trust. This is an amazing industry, with so many talented people, and I know times are tough right now, but the future is really, really bright. I wish you all, the next generation of game makers, the best of luck."

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468482/glen-schofield-announces-retirement-after-35-years-in-the-industry/

Jurassic World Evolution 2: Complete Edition will include "every dinosaur, feature, and downloadable content released for Jurassic World Evolution 2 since launch."

The game first released for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store in November 2021.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468481/jurassic-world-evolution-2-complete-edition-launches-july-30-for-switch-2/

The Switch 2 version will feature mouse controls, as well as a smoother frame rate and higher-definition graphics compared to the Switch version.

The Rolling Live Highlights DLC will include 10 new quests, 12 new songs, six new cousins, and 18 new accessories.

View the Switch 2 trailer below:

Once Upon a Katamari is currently available for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468480/once-upon-a-katamari-launches-october-8-for-switch-alongside-dlc/

Read details on the game below:

Medieval Paris, Where the Tolling Bells Herald the End

1499. Paris is engulfed in flames as monstrous creatures suddenly emerge from the shadows.

Trevor Belmont, the hero who defeated Dracula, ventures into the burning streets with his daughter, Rose Belmont. Armed with the legendary holy whip, the Vampire Killer, they hunt down the beasts bleeding from the looming castle.

Rose is soon swept up in the dark conspiracy that lurks beneath. Will she succeed in saving Paris from devastation?

Satisfying Whip Action

• Castlevania‘s iconic whip action is more satisfying than ever!
• Crack your whip to move around freely like a trapeze artist!
• Master the whip mechanics and be creative to pounce on your prey like a wolf in fast-paced combat!

Diverse Bosses and the Arcana System

• Face-off against legendary bosses including Death, Medusa and Carmilla in addition to enigmatic new bosses such as Joan of Arc.
• Once defeated, bosses are sealed into Rose’s tarot cards, turning them into Arcana – use their skills to cast spells and obtain unique special actions

Customize Your Battle Style with Weapons and Relics

• Customize Rose’s battle style by using a variety of equipment, including weapons spanning seven distinct categories and Relics that trigger powerful effects through both offense and defense.
• Combine equipment you discover through exploration to create your own playstyle!

Iconic Castlevania Atmosphere, Reimagined in New Stages

• From iconic Gothic aesthetics to vivid, refined visuals, the game presents a fresh take on the world of Castlevania.
• Explore maps filled with both new features and familiar elements inspired by classic Castlevania titles.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468479/castlevania-belmontrsquos-curse-to-also-launch-for-switch-on-october-15/

View the release date trailer below:

Read details on the game below:

Farming Camp is a cozy, single-player farm management game that follows the journey of an ambitious teenager competing to become the best farmer in the camp. Manage your farm alongside your companions, complete chores for points, and deal with the dynamics of a colorful cast in their teenage years.

Your Path to Farming Greatness Begins!

Step into the boots of young Alessandra, before she became the renowned Evertree Farmer. Experience her life at the Evertree Farming Camp where it all began. Learn the ropes and face the fun and chaos of camp life.

Team Up With a Lively Farming Crew

You’re not alone on the farm. You’ll have the company of two budding young farmers, each with their own vibe. Assign chores, solve problems, and build friendships as you figure out how to run the farm together.

Heart, Humor, and Harvests!

Farming’s only half the fun at Evertree Farming Camp. From delightful dramas to silly surprises, and even a few messy moments, there’s never a dull day at the camp!

Work Hard to Take Care of the Camp

Use the tools at your disposal and climb your way to the top as the camp’s best farming team. Coordinate with your companions and earn points by completing chores, maintaining the camp, attending classes, and tackling missions.

Have Fun and Win the Competition

Jump into quick and fun minigames that keep things exciting—whether it’s racing against the clock to eliminate pests, chopping wood, cooking delicious meals, and more!

Key Features:

• Embark on a cozy single-player farming adventure and follow a unique, captivating story.
• Explore a beautifully hand-drawn 2D top-down world full of charming details.
• Meet a diverse and lovable cast of characters, each with their own quirks, stories, and farming talents.
• Grow a variety of crops, care for animals, fish, and make your team win the competition.
• Keep your farm thriving with fun and engaging mini-games.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468478/farming-camp-launches-september-24-for-ps5-xbox-series-switch-and-pc/

View a trailer of the game below:

Read details on the game below:

To my dearest, and to the brave…

Hercules no Eikou II: Taitan no Metsubou was released by Data East in 1989 for an 8-bit home console.

This is a RPG game where you play as a hero traveling a vast world to defeat monsters who plot to dominate it.

Join forces with companions you meet along the way and restore peace and tranquility to the world.

(This title was originally released exclusively in Japan. While the user interface and manual are available in English, the game content is available in Japanese only.)

The Console Archives series is designed to bring classic games originally released on home consoles to modern gaming platforms.

In Console Archives series, features such as customizable button layouts, rapid-fire settings, multiple save points, and for some titles, a rewind function have been added, to support players in completing these classics.

Additional options include screen layout adjustments and filters that recreate the the nostalgic atmosphere of CRT TVs back in the day, allowing players to customize the visual experience to their preference.

Whether it’s a title you played long ago or one you’re experiencing for the first time, we hope you’ll find a favorite and enjoy the game your way.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468477/console-archives-hercules-no-eikou-ii-taitan-no-metsubou-launches-july-16-for-switch-2-and-ps5/

Arcade Archives 2 Hyper Crash is priced at $9.99 / 1,100 yen, while Arcade Archives Hyper Crash is priced at 7.99 / 837 yen An upgrade will be available for $2.99 / 330 yen.

View a trailer of the game below:

Read details on the game below:

The world of Syvalion, changing with your play.

Syvalion is a shooting game released by TAITO in 1988.

Control the mechanical dragon Syvalion, navigate through the complex maze, and defeat the boss waiting at the goal.

With maps and stories changing every playthrough, can you witness all 100+ unique endings?!

Arcade Archives 2 series introduces a brand-new mode called Time Attack Mode, in addition to the Original Mode, Hi Score Mode, and Caravan Mode from Arcade Archives. Time Attack Mode focuses on how quickly you can complete the game, regardless of the score you achieve.

What’s more, with VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) support, the gameplay can be reproduced even more accurately, closer to the original arcade experience.

Please enjoy these iconic arcade games that defined an era with the Arcade Archives series!

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468476/arcade-archives-syvalion-launches-july-16-for-switch-2-ps5-xbox-series-switch-and-ps4/

"Dive into the seamless combat system of Beast of Reincarnation in our official Combat Overview video. Developed by Game Freak, this unique action RPG blends real-time action with the tactical depth of turn-based strategy," reads the description to the trailer.

"Master the synergy between Emma and her loyal companion, Koo. Learn how to break enemy Down Gauges, execute perfectly timed parries to restore FP, and unleash devastating 'Bloom Arts' to control the battlefield. From massive, blighted boss encounters to intricate team battles, experiment with an expansive skill tree to build your playstyle."

View the trailer below:

Beast of Reincarnation will launch for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Xbox Game Pass on August 4.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468475/beast-of-reincarnation-combat-overview-trailer-released/

Users on the Switch can upgrade to the Switch 2 version for $4.99 using the Upgrade Pack.

STARBITES first released for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch in May 2026.

Read details on the game below:

Join Lukida and her allies as they uncover the truth beneath the sands of Bitter!

Hop on your Motorbot and ride toward freedom in the brand-new RPG STARBITES! On Bitter, a desert planet ravaged by the aftermath of an interstellar war, a young salvager named Lukida seeks to escape to the stars, but a sudden attack by a giant robot sets events into motion that will change her life—and the fate of Bitter—forever.

Explore the expansive landscape of Bitter atop your Motorbot, and fight your way to victory in a turn-based battle system that’s easy to learn, and satisfying to master. Build up your party, kit out your Motorbots with powerful equipment, and head out into the deserts of Bitter! Somewhere beneath the dunes, the truth of what happened 45 years ago awaits…

Fracture Your Foes

Learn your enemies’ weaknesses, then Fracture their guard and dish out the damage in classic, turn-based RPG gameplay that’s easy to pick up, and hard to put down. Take extra turns with Driver’s High to really turn the tables!

Ride High on your Motorbot

Every character has a personal Motorbot that’s suited to their own personality and battle style. Lukida rides high in her slingshot-wielding robot, while Gwendoll cruises along in her flashy hoverbike.

Secrets Beneath the Dunes

The sands of Bitter hide many secrets. Uncover the truth in this gripping story of regret, revenge, and forgiveness.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468474/starbites-is-out-now-for-switch-2/

We've been working not only to improve performance to let the game run on Switch 2, but to improve the current base game versions on other platforms, too," said Oyama. 

"In particular, we've been trying to find as many small tweaks as we can make so we can build up and have a big performance improvement on consoles when it comes to Performance Mode itself. That's something we're aiming for with the late August title update that's in the roadmap; for Performance Mode on consoles will be able to reach 60 frames a second.

"That means that, commensurately, all that effort we've put into the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S versions of the game also pays off in the Switch 2 version, and we're currently seeing a minimum 30 frames per second rate performance on that hardware (and, in many scenes, it's even higher!) So it's a little while to go until the game releases, but it's exceeding our expectations on Switch 2, and I hope the players agree that we've done a great job again with bringing this game to that platform."

The Dark Arisen expansion will release on October 9 for the Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. 

Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen will include the base game and Dark Arisen expansion. The expansion will be available as a standalone purchase for the PS5, Xbox Series, and PC.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468473/dragons-dogma-2-devs-say-performance-on-switch-2-is-exceeding-our-expectations/

"After careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision that Dying Light: The Beast will no longer be released on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One," said Techland.

"Dying Light: The Beast was built from the ground up to take full advantage of current-generation hardware. Its open world, advanced visuals, and fluid combat and traversal all depend on processing power and memory that previous-generation consoles simply cannot provide. As development progressed, it became clear that bringing the game to those platforms would require compromises that would prevent us from delivering the experience we set out to create.

"This was not a matter of choosing to leave those platforms behind. Rather, it reflected the technical realities of development and our commitment to delivering the best possible experience.

"We know many of you were looking forward to playing on PS4 or Xbox One, and we are truly sorry for the disappointment this causes. Anyone who was expecting to play on either platform will be eligible for a refund. Thank you for your understanding and continued support."

Dying Light: The Beast released for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC in September 2025.

A life-long and avid gamer, William D'Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky.

Full Article - https://www.vgchartz.com/article/468472/dying-light-the-beast-for-ps4-and-xbox-one-have-been-cancelled/