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🖥 PC, Multi-platformDragon's Dogma 2's controversial microtransactions are going away
Capcom is removing the DLC microtransactions that plagued Dragon's Dogma 2 at launch and led to negative Steam reviews.
🎮 Multi-platformHundreds Of Books Are On Sale In Amazon’s Buy 2 Get 1 Free Sale
Amazon's massive Buy Two, Get One Free sale(https://www.amazon.com/promotion/psp/A2WFA6UZWNC5ZJ?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) is back as an early Prime Day deal just in time to stock up your summer reading list. To take advantage of this deal, add three eligible books to your cart; you'll then receive a discount on the lowest-priced item at checkout. Most eligible books are also seeing big price cuts in addition to the B2G1 promotion, meaning you can save quite a bit while the deal is available. Dozens of novels, comics, art books, and other reading material are eligible for the discount, so we've compiled a list of some of our favorite books that are on sale, as well as some trending picks and bestsellers if you're looking for recommendations. See all deals at Amazon(https://www.amazon.com/promotion/psp/A2WFA6UZWNC5ZJ?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) If you're looking to pick up a few of the titles we mentioned in our Books You Should Read Based On Your Favorite Video Game(https://www.gamespot.com/gallery/heres-what-book-you-should-read-based-on-your-favorite-game/2900-6540/) story, you'll find Tress of the Emerald Sea(https://www.amazon.com/Tress-Emerald-Sea-Cosmere-Projects/dp/1250899664?tag=gamespot-primeday-20), Six of Crows(https://www.amazon.com/Six-Crows-Leigh-Bardugo/dp/125007696X?tag=gamespot-primeday-20), and Throne of Glass(https://www.amazon.com/Throne-Glass-1/dp/1639730958/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) are all included. The first book in the popular LitRPG series Dungeon Crawler Carl(https://www.amazon.com/Dungeon-Crawler-Carl-Matt-Dinniman/dp/0593820258/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) is also part of this deal, as are as classic fantasy series like Lord of the Rings(https://www.amazon.com/J-R-R-Tolkien-4-Book-Boxed-Set/dp/0345538374/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) and newer sci-fi releases like Red Rising(https://www.amazon.com/Red-Rising-Pierce-Brown/dp/034553980X/ref=tmmpapswatch0?tag=gamespot-primeday-20). If you or someone special in your life is a Romantasy fan, several of the genre's most popular books and series are on sale. Sarah J. Maas fans can get the entire Throne of Glass box set(https://www.amazon.com/Throne-Glass-Paperback-Box-Set/dp/163973340X/ref=tmmpapswatch0?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) right now for 43% off, dropping the price to $88 (normally $155), while From Blood and Ash(https://www.amazon.com/Blood-Ash/dp/1952457467/ref=tmmhrdswatch0?tag=gamespot-primeday-20), Fourth Wing(https://www.amazon.com/Fourth-Wing-Empyrean-Rebecca-Yarros/dp/1649377371/ref=tmmpapswatch0?tag=gamespot-primeday-20), and The Knight and the Moth(https://www.amazon.com/Knight-Moth-Stonewater-Kingdom/dp/0316582700/ref=tmmhrdswatch0?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) are all seeing steep discounts as well. !(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/book-header.jpg?w=1024) Speaking of steamy romances Game Changer(https://www.amazon.com/Game-Changer-Changers-1/dp/1335534628/ref=pdbxgythbsdsccl2/138-6933148-9037048?tag=gamespot-primeday-20), the first book in the spicy Romance series that inspired HBO's Heated Rivalry, is part of the sale, as well as several other titles that have seen recent or upcoming screen adaptations, such as Project Hail Mary(https://www.amazon.com/dp/0593135229?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms(https://www.amazon.com/Knight-Seven-Kingdoms-Tie-Song/dp/B0FVCXD1CT/ref=tmmpapswatch0?tag=gamespot-primeday-20), while those looking for a new non-fiction book might want to check out Lena Dunham's new memoir Famesick(https://www.amazon.com/dp/0593129326?tag=gamespot-primeday-20). Check out the list below for even more of our recommendations, or check out Amazon's full Buy Two Get One Free sale(https://www.amazon.com/promotion/psp/A2WFA6UZWNC5ZJ?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) to browse all the options. Game Changer(https://www.amazon.com/Game-Changer-Changers-1/dp/1335534628/ref=pdbxgythbsdsccl2/138-6933148-9037048?tag=gamespot-primeday-20), the first book in the spicy Romance series that inspired HBO's Heated Rivalry, is part of the sale, as well as several other titles that have seen recent or upcoming screen adaptations, such as Project Hail Mary(https://www.amazon.com/dp/0593135229?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms(https://www.amazon.com/Knight-Seven-Kingdoms-Tie-Song/dp/B0FVCXD1CT/ref=tmmpapswatch0?tag=gamespot-primeday-20). If you or someone special in your life is a Romantasy fan, several of the genre's most popular books and series are on sale. Sarah J. Maas fans can get the entire Throne of Glass box set(https://www.amazon.com/Throne-Glass-Paperback-Box-Set/dp/163973340X/ref=tmmpapswatch0?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) right now for 43% off, while From Blood and Ash(https://www.amazon.com/Blood-Ash/dp/1952457467/ref=tmmhrdswatch0?tag=gamespot-primeday-20), Fourth Wing(https://www.amazon.com/Fourth-Wing-Empyrean-Rebecca-Yarros/dp/1649377371/ref=tmmpapswatch0?tag=gamespot-primeday-20), and The Knight and the Moth(https://www.amazon.com/Knight-Moth-Stonewater-Kingdom/dp/0316582700/ref=tmmhrdswatch0?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) are all seeing steep discounts as well. Amazon Buy 2 Get 1 Free Book Deals - Alchemised(https://www.amazon.com/Alchemised-SenLinYu/dp/0593972708/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $20.36 (~~$35~~) - Artemis(https://www.amazon.com/dp/0553448145?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $10 (~~$21~~) - Atomic Habits(https://www.amazon.com/dp/0735211299?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $18 (~~$27~~) - The Butcher's Masquerade (Dungeon Crawler Carl)(https://www.amazon.com/dp/0593955994?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $21.29 (~~$35~~) - Carl's Doomsday Scenario (Dungeon Crawler Carl)(https://www.amazon.com/dp/0593820266?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $18 (~~$30~~) - A Court of Mist and Fury(https://www.amazon.com/dp/1635575583?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $12.82 (~~$19~~) - A Court of Thorns and Roses(https://www.amazon.com/Court-Thorns-Roses-Sarah-Maas/dp/1635575567/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $14.24 (~~$19~~) - A Court of Silver Flames(https://www.amazon.com/dp/1635577993?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $11.49 (~~$19~~) - Crown of Midnight(https://www.amazon.com/dp/1639730974?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $10.16 (~~$19~~) - The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook (Dungeon Crawler Carl)(https://www.amazon.com/dp/0593820282?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $17 (~~$30~~) - Dungeon Crawler Carl(https://www.amazon.com/Dungeon-Crawler-Carl-Matt-Dinniman/dp/0593820258/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $15 (~~$20~~) - Dungeon Crawler Carl Graphic Novel(https://www.amazon.com/dp/1638493650?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $15 (~~$20~~) - The Eye of the Bedlam Bride (Dungeon Crawler Carl)(https://www.amazon.com/dp/059395601X) -- $21.28 (~~$39~~) - Famesick: A Memoir(https://www.amazon.com/Famesick-Memoir-Lena-Dunham/dp/0593129326/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $27 (~~$32~~) - Fourth Wing(https://www.amazon.com/Fourth-Wing-Empyrean-Rebecca-Yarros/dp/1649377371/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $11.80 (~~$21)~~ - Game Changer(https://www.amazon.com/Game-Changer-Changers-1/dp/1335534628/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $10.61 (~~$19~~) - The Gate of the Feral Gods (Dungeon Crawler Carl)(https://www.amazon.com/dp/0593955978?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $20.73 (~~$30~~) - Heated Rivalry(https://www.amazon.com/dp/1335534636?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $13 (~~$19~~) - Iron Flame(https://www.amazon.com/dp/1649377576?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $11.87 (~~$22~~) - The Knight and the Moth(https://www.amazon.com/Knight-Moth-Stonewater-Kingdom/dp/0316582700/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $14.59 (~~$20~~) - A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms(https://www.amazon.com/Knight-Seven-Kingdoms-Tie-Song/dp/B0FVCXD1CT/ref=sr14?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $15 (~~$20~~) - The Lost Bookshop(https://www.amazon.com/dp/0008609217?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $10 (~~$19~~) - The Martian(https://www.amazon.com/Martian-Andy-Weir/dp/0553418025/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $9 (~~$19~~) - The Midnight Library(https://www.amazon.com/Midnight-Library-Novel-Matt-Haig/dp/0525559493/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $14.52 (~~$18~~) - Murdle: Volume 1(https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250892317?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $12.48 (~~$16~~) - A Parade of Horribles (Dungeon Crawler Carl)(https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FY26HLTD?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $22.38 (~~$32~~) - Project Hail Mary(https://www.amazon.com/dp/0593135229?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $14 (~~$22~~) - Red Rising(https://www.amazon.com/Red-Rising-Pierce-Brown/dp/034553980X/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $10 (~~$18~~) - The Road(https://www.amazon.com/Road-Cormac-McCarthy/dp/0307387895/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $9 (~~$20~~) - This Inevitable Ruin (Dungeon Crawler Carl)(https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F74CH248?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $22.47 (~~$39~~) - Tower of Dawn(https://www.amazon.com/dp/1639731059?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $10 (~~$19~~) - Throne of Glass(https://www.amazon.com/dp/1639730958?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $10.70 (~~$19~~) - Six of Crows(https://www.amazon.com/Six-Crows-Leigh-Bardugo/dp/125007696X?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $7 (~~$16~~) - Sunrise on the Reaping(https://www.amazon.com/dp/1546171460?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $15 (~~$28~~) - Starside (Deluxe Limited Edition)(https://www.amazon.com/dp/0063462435?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $21 (~~$34~~) - Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow(https://www.amazon.com/Tomorrow-novel-Gabrielle-Zevin/dp/0593466497/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $10.16 (~~$19~~) - Tress of the Emerald Sea(https://www.amazon.com/Tress-Emerald-Sea-Cosmere-Projects/dp/1250899664?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $15 (~~$20~~) - When the Moon Hatched(https://www.amazon.com/When-Moon-Hatched-fast-paced-undeniable/dp/0063415801/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $12.81 (~~$22~~) Book Box Set Deals - The Bloodsworn Saga Boxed Set(https://www.amazon.com/Bloodsworn-Saga-Boxed-Set-Shadow/dp/0316596620/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $38.48 (~~$55~~) - Crescent City Hardcover Box Set(https://www.amazon.com/Crescent-City-Hardcover-Box-Set/dp/1639732187/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $64.88 (~~$99~~) - George R. R. Martin's A Game of Thrones Five-Book Boxed Set (Leather Bound)(https://www.amazon.com/Thrones-Clash-Kings-Swords-Dragons/dp/1101965487/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $45 (~~$85~~) - The Hunger Games Four-Book Paperback Box Set(https://www.amazon.com/Hunger-Paperback-Catching-Mockingjay-Songbirds/dp/1339042657/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $33.30 (~~$62~~) - J.R.R. Tolkien 4-Book Boxed Set(https://www.amazon.com/J-R-R-Tolkien-4-Book-Boxed-Set/dp/0345538374/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $28 (~~$36~~) - Mistborn Boxed Set(https://www.amazon.com/Mistborn-Boxed-Set-Well-Ascension/dp/125026717X/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $23 (~~$35~~) - The Stormlight Archive Boxed Set, Books 1-3(https://www.amazon.com/Stormlight-Archive-Boxed-Set-Books/dp/1250776635/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $25 (~~$39~~) - Throne of Glass Box Set(https://www.amazon.com/Throne-Glass-Paperback-Box-Set/dp/163973340X/ref=sr11?tag=gamespot-primeday-20) -- $88 (~~$155~~) More Deals And Preorders - Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave Is Getting A Collector’s Edition(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/fire-emblem-fortunes-weave-is-getting-a-collectors-edition/) - All Three Xenoblade Chronicles Switch 2 Editions Are Up For Preorder(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/all-three-xenoblade-chronicles-switch-2-editions-are-up-for-preorder/) - Lies of P: Complete Edition Switch 2 Preorders Include Some Cool Collectibles(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/lies-of-p-complete-edition-switch-2-preorders-include-some-cool-collectibles/) - Preorders For The Minecraft Dungeons 2 Deluxe Edition Are Live(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/preorders-for-the-minecraft-dungeons-2-deluxe-edition-are-live/) - Star Wars Zero Company Preorders Are Live: Here’s What’s In Every Edition(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/star-wars-zero-company-preorders-are-live-heres-whats-in-every-edition/) - Persona 4 Revival Preorders Are Now Open, Including A Massive Collector’s Edition(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/persona-4-revival-preorders-are-now-open-including-a-massive-collectors-edition/) - Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse Preorders Include An Alucard-Themed Bonus Costume(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/castlevania-belmonts-curse-preorders-include-an-alucard-themed-bonus-costume/) - Rayman Legends Retold Preorders Include Bonus Costumes Based On Rayman 3(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/rayman-legends-retold-preorders-include-bonus-costumes-based-on-rayman-3/) - Where To Preorder Control Resonant(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/where-to-preorder-control-resonant/) - Silent Hill: Townfall Preorders Emerge At Amazon And Best Buy(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/silent-hill-townfall-buying-guide/1100-6538176/) - Fable Premium Edition Preorders Include 5-Day Early Access To The Full Game(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/fable-premium-edition-preorders-include-5-day-early-access-to-the-full-game/) More Deals And Preorders Links (7) Sign up for GameSpot's Weekly Deals Newsletter: GameSpot's Weekly Deals, Straight to Your Inbox Join GameSpot's Weekly Deals newsletter and get the top game and gear discounts every week. Email Address Sign Up --- Here’s What Book You Should Read Based On Your Favorite Game !4490372-qas(2).png(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/original/1639/16394322/4490372-qas(2).png?w=1024) !4489307-yourparagraphtext(4).png(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/original/1639/16394322/4489307-yourparagraphtext(4).png?w=1024) !4489443-yourparagraphtext(17).png(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/original/1639/16394322/4489443-yourparagraphtext(17).png?w=1024) !4489482-yourparagraphtext(20).png(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/original/1639/16394322/4489482-yourparagraphtext(20).png?w=1024) !4495806-yourparagraphtext.png(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/original/1639/16394322/4495806-yourparagraphtext.png?w=1024) !4489309-yourparagraphtext(5).png(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/original/1639/16394322/4489309-yourparagraphtext(5).png?w=1024) !4489300-yourparagraphtext(2).png(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/original/1639/16394322/4489300-yourparagraphtext(2).png?w=1024) View Images(https://www.gamespot.com/gallery/heres-what-book-you-should-read-based-on-your-favorite-game/2900-6540/)
🟩 Xbox, Multi-platformDouble Fine, Ninja Theory, And More Reportedly Trying To Spin Off From Xbox Game Studios
Earlier today, word broke that Microsoft is reportedly planning to close Compulsion Games(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/xbox-closing-we-happy-few-south-of-midnight-developer-compulsion-games-report/)--the studio behind South of Midnight(https://www.gamespot.com/games/south-of-midnight/), We Happy Few(https://www.gamespot.com/games/we-happy-few/), and Contrast(https://www.gamespot.com/games/contrast/)--as part of a larger round of layoffs and studio closures(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/xbox-reportedly-planning-big-layoffs-for-next-month/). Now, there's word that a handful of Xbox Studios' smaller developers are taking some steps to avoid that fate. Bloomberg(https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-06-15/studios-in-microsoft-s-xbox-division-brace-for-closures) is reporting that Compulsion, Double Fine, Ninja Theory, and "several other studios" have started negotiations with Microsoft to spin off their companies from Xbox Studios and avert full studio closures. Potentially, this would give the studios a chance to buy out Microsoft's stake in their companies or allow them to find financial backers who could become the new owners. However, that may not be enough to save every developer at the affected studios. Bloomberg notes that "many employees will likely lose their jobs as a result" of going independent. Consequently, employees at some of the studios have reportedly been cleared to begin looking for other work. It appears this process may be further along at Ninja Theory, with The Verge(https://www.theverge.com/games/950204/xbox-ninja-theory-shutdown-hellblade-senua) reporting Microsoft has already opted to close the studio. The scope of the potential layoffs isn't clear, and there have even been reports that Microsoft is considering spinning off Xbox itself(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/microsoft-considering-spinning-off-xbox-speeding-up-elder-scrolls-and-fallout-game-releases-report/) into a new standalone company. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella recently stressed the need for the Xbox gaming division to pull its financial weight(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/microsoft-boss-wants-xbox-to-start-pulling-its-weight-financially/). Ahead of any big changes to Xbox itself, Craig Duncan, the head of Xbox Game Studios, has left the company(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/xbox-game-studios-boss-is-out-ahead-of-reported-layoffs-and-other-major-changes-to-reset-xbox/) after a 15-year stint with Microsoft. Duncan's chief of staff, Louise O’Connor, is also leaving Xbox.
🎮 Multi-platformObsession Director Would Be Up For A Video Game Movie
Filmmaker Curry Barker is on top of the world right now thanks to the success of his horror movie Obsession. It's made more than $220 million against a reported $750,000 budget, and everyone wants to know what he's going to do next. He is making a new Texas Chainsaw Massacre movie, and plans to expand Obsession into possible sequels and a TV show, but what else? A video game movie, perhaps. He told Josh Horowitz on the Happy Sad Confused podcast that while he is not a big gamer himself, he would be open to making a video game movie one day. Asked if there was a specific game that he would jump at the chance to direct, if asked, he said, "Yeah, probably. I feel like video games are sometimes really good concepts for movies, and I'm like, 'Ah, man, I wish that was a movie.'" "I'm not a huge gamer, so I don't know. But Five Nights at Freddy's ... I probably would have went a different direction with it. But that would have been something cool for me to do," he added. Curry also talked about how he had dinner with Zach Cregger (Weapons, Barbarian) and he thinks Cregger is being really smart with his idea for Resident Evil and making a movie in the spirit of the games but not an adaptation of a specific title. Barker and Cregger have had similar career trajectories in some ways, having both started out with sketch comedy (That's A Bad Idea for Barker and Whitest Kids 'U Know for Cregger) before transitioning to making horror/psychological thrillers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J61DU21QN4 Barker also revealed his own personal favorite video game, calling out Naughty Dog's Uncharted--though he did not single out a specific entry. That movie was already adapted for a film starring Tom Holland and Mark Wahlberg. Another director with a breakout movie this year, Kane Parsons (Backrooms), said he is also interested in making a video game movie, and it could be an adaptation of Valve's Portal(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/backrooms-director-eyeing-a-portal-movie-but-hes-cautious-about-adaptations/).
🟩 Xbox, Multi-platformXbox is closing down Hellblade creator Ninja Theory
Xbox is closing down Ninja Theory, the studio behind the Hellblade series, a source tells The Verge. Staffers were told on a call on Monday about the closure, but they are hoping the studio will find a buyer. The closure comes as "several" Xbox studios at Microsoft, including Compulsion Games and Double Fine, are in &8230;
🟩 Xbox, Multi-platformCompulsion Games And Other Xbox Studios Reportedly At Risk Of Being Shut Down
!Game Informer News(https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/bodydefault/public/2025/04/07/79002c5b/southofmidnightrougarou.jpg.webp) Earlier today, Kotaku(https://kotaku.com/xbox-shuttering-south-of-midnight-peabody-award-compulsion-games-2000706065) reported that South of Midnight developer Compulsion Games may be closing its doors following a report from last week(https://gameinformer.com/2026/06/11/report-xbox-preparing-for-significant-layoffs-as-new-ceo-asha-sharma-details-xbox-0) that Xbox is preparing another round of significant layoffs. Although we still have no official confirmation of Compulsion's status, it may not be the only studio at risk of being shuttered. Bloomberg(https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-06-15/studios-in-microsoft-s-xbox-division-brace-for-closures?accessToken=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJzb3VyY2UiOiJTdWJzY3JpYmVyR2lmdGVkQXJ0aWNsZSIsImlhdCI6MTc4MTU1NDUzNiwiZXhwIjoxNzgyMTU5MzM2LCJhcnRpY2xlSWQiOiJUR09XOTRLSVAzTE0wMCIsImJjb25uZWN0SWQiOiJCMUVBQkI5NjQ2QUM0REZFQTJBRkI4MjI1MzgyQTJFQSJ9.qu5M4E4sve-8r60rLe-Xv-LrGJvIGgWiKLxMitTl5A) reports that Compulsion Games, along with other studios, including Hellblade developer Ninja Theory and Psychonauts developer Double Fine, are at risk of being shut down by Xbox. The news comes from sources close to the situation who have not been authorized to speak to the press. According to Bloomberg's sources, each studio is negotiating with Xbox to buy itself back and go independent, though that would result in significant job cuts. Bloomberg also reports that employees at these studios have been made aware of the situation and given permission to look for new work. If true, this information lines up with Kotaku's earlier reports that Compulsion’s leadership is negotiating with Microsoft over the studio’s future; the exact details of this alleged discussion are unknown. Microsoft has not officially confirmed Compulsion’s closure, and the studio has not issued an official statement on the matter. However, some studio employees, such as writer Bijan Stephen(https://bsky.app/profile/bijan.bsky.social/post/3modtgztcks2t) and senior writer Zaire Lanier(https://bsky.app/profile/zeestermeester.bsky.social/post/3modlhhdqzs2q), made social media posts today announcing they are looking for work. Last week, it was reported that Xbox CEO Asha Sharma and chief content officer Matt Booty were planning layoffs. A message penned by the pair(https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2026/06/10/next-100-days-xbox-reset/) was sent to staff detailing an “Xbox Reset” to address ongoing issues at the company. Part of this message stated that Xbox “overextended” itself by acquiring so many game studios over the last several years, while acknowledging other challenges such as declining revenue, hardware component shortages, and systems described as "overly complex" and not ready for the years ahead. "For some of you, these realities will be surprising and even frustrating to discover. We won’t succeed by hiding hard truths, nor will we succeed by doing the same thing and expecting different results. Like the ‘everyday wins’ mentality from the first 100 days, we will sprint to make progress against hardware, content, experience, and services together," reads a section of Sharma and Booty's message. Microsoft announced its acquisition of Compulsion Games and Ninja Theory during E3 2018; at the 2019 show, it announced it had purchased Double Fine. Compulsion's most recent release was South of Midnight(https://gameinformer.com/review/south-of-midnight/a-toe-tapping-tapestry), which launched in 2025 to positive reviews. As noted by Kotaku, the studio had announced it was hiring(https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7442511014853533696/) only two months ago for work on a new IP. At the Xbox Games Showcase during Summer Game Fest last week, Ninja Theory announced a new Hellblade game simply titled Senua(https://gameinformer.com/xbox-games-showcase/2026/06/07/senua-is-an-action-adventure-game-in-the-hellblade-universe) and billed it as a pure action experience compared to previous entries. Senua is scheduled to launch in 2027. Double Fine launched its multiplayer party game Kiln(https://gameinformer.com/xbox-developer-direct/2026/01/22/double-fine-announces-online-multiplayer-pottery-brawler-kiln) earlier this year, and has shipped 2024's Keeper and 2021's Psychonauts 2 under the Xbox umbrella. Game Informer has contacted Compulsion Games for comment and will update this story should they respond. Keep in mind that this is a developing story and nothing has been confirmed. We'll be keeping an eye on the situation and will update the story as more details become available.
🎮 Multi-platformIs one of the world's best Pokémon speedrunners cheating?
Speedrunner Werster's world records in Pokémon Emerald's Battle Factory modes are in doubt
🎮 Multi-platformBlizzard Sues WoW Private Server It Alleges Raked In Millions
World of Warcraft(https://www.gamespot.com/games/world-of-warcraft/) developer Blizzard is seeking legal action against yet another WoW private server, accusing the creators of Ascension WoW of copyright infringement, racketeering, and having earned millions of dollars illegally. In a court document(https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/73480810/1/blizzard-entertainment-inc-v-powell/) submitted on June 12 in California, Blizzard cited many of the same offenses it used against the creators of Turtle WoW in a lawsuit(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/wow-most-ambitious-private-server-is-being-sued-by-blizzard/1100-6534413/) last year. Blizzard alleges the makers of Project Ascension have infringed on its WoW copyright on a "massive scale" by distributing illegal copies of the game, using copyrighted materials, and accepting donations, in effect operating an entire business built on the "large scale, egregious, and ongoing infringement" of Blizzard's intellectual property. "Through Project Ascension, Defendants have found a lucrative way to exploit and profit from the popularity of the WoW game experience," the document states. Blizzard alleges the creators of Project Ascension are well aware of their illegal activities, and have taken "extraordinary steps" to conceal their identities and safeguard against takedown notices or court judgements. The document states Blizzard believes Project Ascension's servers are hosted by the Russia-based Aeza Group, an organization that, according to the US Department of the Treasury(https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sb0185), is known for "enabling cybercriminals and technology theft" and was sanctioned by the US government in 2025. Blizzard notes that Project Ascension's choice to work with such a "criminal enterprise" signals "intent to engage in unlawful activity." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zt7ebNzc5zM Unlike in its case against Turtle WoW, many of the named defendants in Blizzard's lawsuit against Project Ascension reside in the US, but have allegedly masked their involvement through multiple shell companies that have no offices or employees. These companies are used to hide assets in an effort to avoid US tax liability, Blizzard alleges. The lawsuit goes on to state Blizzard is "informed and believes" Project Ascension has earned the two main people behind the private server, Derek Powell and Bryan Thomas Mannion, millions of dollars. As part of the lawsuit, Blizzard is seeking the handover of all copies and materials that infringe on Blizzard's IP (including the game's modified client), the shutdown of Project Ascension, monetary relief, and the full accounting of "any and all monies" collected in connection with Project Ascension. Project Ascension is widely seen as the last large private server still operating following Blizzard's takedown of Turtle WoW(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/popular-world-of-warcraft-private-server-turtle-wow-ordered-to-cease-and-desist/1100-6539367/) and Stormforge(https://www.gamespot.com/articles/another-world-of-warcraft-private-server-is-going-dark/1100-6539503/) in April. According to its website, it offers multiple ways to play, including a "classless" version of WoW where players can mix and match abilities as well as a version with 21 "new" classes "inspired deeply by Warcraft lore." The court sided with Blizzard in its action against Turtle WoW back in April, with the two parties soon after reaching a private settlement. A few weeks later, Stormforge announced it would soon shut down after receiving a cease and desist from Blizzard. Blizzard's recent actions against private servers have some fans wondering if a new version of WoW Classic is just around the corner. Prior to this year, the last time Blizzard shut down a high-profile WoW private server was Nostalrius back in 2016, only to announce WoW Classic a year later. That has led to speculation Blizzard could be poised to unveil what fans call "Classic+" at BlizzCon in September--a version of original WoW that in theory would receive new content and changes without progressing through the game's various expansions. Blizzard has not yet officially announced what's next for WoW Classic, but did tease Classic players "have a lot to look forward to" during a 2026 State of Azeroth presentation. What To Expect From WoW In 2026: Housing Updates, Labyrinths, And Surprises !4643296-worldofwarcraftcy2026roadmapmodernclassic.png(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/original/1647/16470614/4643296-worldofwarcraftcy2026roadmapmodernclassic.png?w=1024) !4642613-wowmidnighttwilightascensionevent(1).jpg(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/original/1647/16470614/4642613-wowmidnighttwilightascensionevent(1).jpg?w=1024) !4642612-wowmidnightlaunchsilvermoon.jpg(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/original/1647/16470614/4642612-wowmidnightlaunchsilvermoon.jpg?w=1024) !4642625-wow2026roadmap1205update.jpg(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/original/1647/16470614/4642625-wow2026roadmap1205update.jpg?w=1024) !4642626-wow2026roadmappatch1207.jpg(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/original/1647/16470614/4642626-wow2026roadmappatch1207.jpg?w=1024) !4642627-wow2026roadmap.jpg(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/original/1647/16470614/4642627-wow2026roadmap.jpg?w=1024) !4642614-wow2026roadmapblizzcon.jpg(https://www.gamespot.com/wp-content/uploads/original/1647/16470614/4642614-wow2026roadmapblizzcon.jpg?w=1024) View Images(https://www.gamespot.com/gallery/what-to-expect-from-wow-in-2026-housing-updates-labyrinths-and-surprises/2900-7434/)
🎮 Multi-platformLord of the Rings movie adds Anya Taylor-Joy as brand-new character
The Lord of the Rings The Hunt for Gollum adds Anya Taylor-Joy to its cast. It will be released at the end of next year.
🎮 Multi-platformHBO casts Harry Potter actor to bring a book character to life
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone on HBO will feature a fan favorite cut from the movies: Peeves the Poltergeist, played by Peter Serafinowicz.
🎮 Multi-platformEA Launches Advertising Platform That Promises Non-Disruptive Brand Integration Into Its Games
!Game Informer News(https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/bodydefault/public/2026/06/15/5c16e8c4/ea-advertising-logo.jpg.webp) Electronic Arts has announced EA Advertising, a new platform “transforming how brands connect with audiences through digital and real-world experiences across its global portfolio of games.” The platform will allow brands and partners to create "bespoke integrations" across EA's portfolio of games, such as its roster of sports titles. EA Advertising will enable brands to be integrated directly into gameplay experiences “through dynamic, real-time placements, from stadium signage to custom in-game content, designed to enhance, not disrupt, the player experience,” according to a press release(https://news.ea.com/press-releases/press-releases-details/2026/Electronic-Arts-Introduces-EA-Advertising-Launching-Brands-Directly-Into-Gameplay-and-Live-Experiences/default.aspx). “In these interactive gameplay environments, brands become part of the game itself, reflecting how players engage with advertising in real-world contexts.” EA states that brands can be activated across live environments and that ad placement will be customized to “meet campaign objectives, and update campaigns with ongoing optimization informed by aggregated engagement insights.” Some of the brand integrations EA uses as examples include digital ad boards, scoreboards, and brand broadcast overlays for its sports titles. Advertisers can also collaborate with EA “in a privacy-safe way” to improve ad targeting and take advantage of the EA Sports Partner Program, a premium ecosystem for select partners to develop "in-game integrations, live service activations, creator tools, social play experiences, and community-driven programs." !EA Sports College Football 27(https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/bodydefault/public/2026/06/15/a355ab84/ea-sports-college-football-27-screen1.jpg.webp "EA Sports College Football 27") EA Sports College Football 27 “Players come to EA’s games and live experiences every day to play, watch, create and connect,” said David Tinson, EA’s chief experiences officer in the press release. “That gives brands a meaningful opportunity to show up in ways that add value and respect the player experience, while maintaining authenticity in the worlds our teams are building. With EA Advertising, we’re helping brands become part of those moments in ways that are relevant and built for players.” Visa, Lowe's, Red Bull, Xfinity, Peacock, and Mountain Dew have already partnered with EA Advertising after already appearing in titles such as Madden, College Football, and FC.
🎮 Multi-platformOverwatch season 3 skins, Mythics, and battle pass contents revealed
The next season of Overwatch includes new hero Shion, new map Neon Junction, and a ton of skins and cosmetics. Here's a look at season 3's offerings.