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Best PS5 Games to Play This August 2025: The Ultimate Hype Guide

Sacheen Chavan
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Best PS5 Games to Play This August 2025: The Ultimate Hype Guide

Look, summer’s winding down, and you know what that means: less sun, more screen. August 2025 is straight-up stacked with fresh, fiery PS5 games that are basically begging for your thumbs.

Whether you’re into emotional rollercoasters, chaotic combat, artsy indie vibes, or just some classic “blow-it-all-up” action, there’s something here with your name on it.

So grab your headset, hydrate like a gamer should (with… probably an energy drink), and let’s dive into the best games you need to be playing on PS5 this month.

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II – The Mind-Bending Comeback

senua saga hellblade 2

Release Date: August 12, 2025

Hellblade is back, baby, and it’s bigger, darker, and prettier than ever. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II brings psychological storytelling to a whole new level. The game uses Unreal Engine 5 to create cinematic visuals so real, your brain might glitch.

But the PS5 version isn’t just a port. It’s packing a new roguelike mode, a silky smooth 60fps upgrade, and a full deluxe edition with the original Hellblade bundled in.

There’s even new photo and video capture tools so you can show off your most cursed moments. And yes, the combat? It hits harder than your morning anxiety.

If you’re into layered storytelling, Norse mythology, and games that don’t baby you, this one’s your August main quest.

Mafia: The Old Country – Say Hello to the Family

mafia the old country

Release Date: August 8, 2025

We’re going full Godfather with this one. Mafia: The Old Country is a prequel to the OG Mafia games, set in the dusty, sun-drenched streets of 1900s Sicily. Think vendettas, family honor, and mob drama with chef’s kiss acting.

Hangar 13 poured emotion, depth, and vintage violence into this title. It’s like watching a prestige HBO series, but you get to decide who gets whacked. The voice acting? Crisp. The world-building? Immersive. The slow-motion executions? Look, we’re not saying it’s a good habit, but it’s stylish.

Perfect for players who crave story-driven gameplay with cinematic flair. Light a cigar (not really), and dive in.

Sword of the Sea – The Chillest Game You’ll Ever Obsess Over

sword of the sea

Release Date: August 19, 2025

Ready to vibe? Sword of the Sea is what happens when an art director from Journey and Abzû decides to feed your soul. You ride a hover-sword (yes, that’s a thing) through ruined cities, massive Leviathans, and sweeping dunes. There’s no dialogue, no combat—just movement, mystery, and melancholy.

This is the kind of game you play when your brain’s been fried from shooters and loot grinds. It’s atmospheric, beautiful, and possibly the most calming thing on a console since Flower. Ideal for gamers who need a soul-reset after getting clapped in multiplayer.

Gears of War: Reloaded – Surprise Drop That No One Saw Coming

Gears of War: Reloaded
Gears of War: Reloaded

Release Date: August 26, 2025

Here’s the twist no one expected: Xbox classic Gears of War just landed on PS5. Gears of War: Reloaded is a full remaster with 4K graphics, 60fps campaign mode, and up to 120fps in multiplayer. Oh, and it’s cross-platform—so your Xbox frenemies can finally get these chainsaw hands.

Reloaded includes all original DLC and even throws in some spicy visual reworks for iconic levels. If you missed this series the first time around, now’s the moment to jump in with both boots and a lancer.

It’s loud, it’s chaotic, and it’s pure serotonin for your inner 2008 gamer.

Lost Soul Aside – Your Anime Combat Dreams Come to Life

Release Date: August 29, 2025

This one’s been in dev hell for so long, we thought it was vaporware. But no—Lost Soul Aside is real, and it’s glorious. An ultra-fast action-RPG that mashes up Final Fantasy, Devil May Cry, and a dash of Kingdom Hearts edge? Sign us up.

You play as Kaser, a sword-wielding dude who’s bonded with a talking, shapeshifting dragon-weapon named Arena. Their banter? Peak anime energy. The gameplay? All high-speed combos, aerial juggles, flashy finishers, and transforming weapons mid-fight. The aesthetic? Straight-up trailer bait—in the best way.

If you’ve got a soft spot for JRPGs with gorgeous visuals and high drama, this one’s your late-August obsession.

Dying Light: The Beast – Parkour Plus Monster Mode

Dying Light: The Beast

Release Date: August 22, 2025

What happens when you mix Dying Light’s parkour with supernatural mutations and a touch of open-world chaos? You get The Beast. This standalone spin-off from Dying Light 2 takes the franchise in a wild new direction.

You’re basically a super-powered version of Kyle Crane with nightmarish abilities. Wall-run into a zombie? Smash. Leap off a skyscraper and ground-pound an infested horde? Also smash. Oh, and did we mention there’s a 4×4 off-roading mode now?

It’s brutal, messy, and somehow still strategic. Bring a friend or go solo, but whatever you do—don’t go out at night unless you’re ready to beast.

PS Plus Freebies – Because Free Games Hit Different

If you’re subbed to PS Plus Essential, you’re getting some serious bang for your zero additional bucks this month:

  • Lies of P – A soulslike game based on Pinocchio (yeah, seriously) that goes hard with style, storytelling, and difficulty. This one blew up last year, and now it’s free. Go suffer beautifully.
  • DayZ – Survive the zombie apocalypse with nothing but your fists and poor decision-making. It’s chaos, it’s stressful, and it’s weirdly fun with friends.
  • My Hero One’s Justice 2 – For anime fans looking to throw hands with quirks. It’s flashy and faithful to My Hero Academia lore. Probably not an esports pick, but still a blast for couch duels.

Don’t skip these—they’re only free until September 2.

So, What Should You Play First?

Here’s your August gaming cheat sheet:

If You’re Feeling…Play This
Deep and emotionalSenua’s Saga: Hellblade II
In a mafia moodMafia: The Old Country
Tranquil and introspectiveSword of the Sea
Like reliving shooter gloryGears of War: Reloaded
Anime protagonist syndromeLost Soul Aside
Zombie-smashing power tripDying Light: The Beast
Broke but blessed with PS PlusLies of P, DayZ, MHA 2

Final Take

August 2025 on PS5 is like that one pizza order where every topping just hits. It’s got action, story, vibes, nostalgia, and indie spice. Whether you’re loading up on emotional trauma (Hellblade), sliding through sandscapes (Sword of the Sea), or spinning around like a caffeinated anime hero (Lost Soul Aside), the lineup is a certified banger.

And honestly? This might be one of the strongest PlayStation months we’ve had in years. So cancel your weekend plans, charge your controller, and let your couch know you’ll be seeing a lot of it.

Also Read: Wuchang: Fallen Feathers Review – This Bird Has Claws (and a Few Bruises)

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Adds Battle Retry and More in Major QoL Update

Sacheen Chavan
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Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Adds Battle Retry and More in Major QoL Update

Sandfall Interactive adds a Battle Retry prompt, audio sliders, Lumina cost visibility, and key bug fixes in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s latest patch. Here’s what’s new.

Clair Obscur’s New Update Gives You a Second Chance — Literally

If you’ve ever rage-quit Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 after a particularly brutal encounter, good news: Sandfall Interactive just added a Battle Retry prompt — no more awkward loading screens or manually reloading your last save. This was one of the most requested features, and honestly, it’s the kind of no-brainer improvement that makes you wonder how we lived without it.

Now when you fall in battle, the game politely pops up with a “Wanna try that again?” screen. One click, and boom — back into the fight. No progress lost, no momentum killed. Basically, it’s like Metaphor: ReFantazio’s retry system — but French-er and just as clutch.

Clea in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Full Breakdown: What’s New in This Patch

Here’s what dropped in the latest Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 update — and why you should care.

🔁 Battle Retry Prompt

Lose a fight? You’ll now get a quick restart option, keeping the flow going without punishing load times or manual reboots. It’s a small change with a big quality-of-life impact — especially in a turn-based RPG where trial-and-error is part of the grind.

✨ Lumina Cost Display

Finally! The Pictos menu now shows the Lumina cost for each ability — so you can stop guessing and start optimizing. Planning your turn just got way more strategic.

🔊 Separate Volume Sliders

You can now adjust combat and exploration volume independently. Want booming battle music but quiet, chill exploration vibes? It’s your world — balance the mix however you like.

📖 Autoplay Dialogue

No more spam-clicking through story scenes. A new autoplay dialogue toggle lets you sit back and soak in the narrative at your own pace. Great for replays or just kicking back.

Combat Fixes & Accessibility Tweaks

This patch isn’t just polish — it squashes a few pesky combat bugs too:

  • Thermal Transfer no longer breaks turn order without meeting proper requirements.
  • A nasty immortality exploit involving Second Chance, Healing Boon, and Protecting Death has been patched.
  • Lune’s Stains now include icons to help with colorblind accessibility. Nice touch!

Bug Fixes & Achievement Fixes (Finally)

Sandfall’s team also handled some lingering issues that were frustrating long-time players:

  • Fixed journals disappearing when picked up during a save.
  • Several achievement glitches (like Expeditioner, Trailbreaker, and Connoisseur) should now retroactively unlock when you load your save.
  • Environmental bugs and visual issues — especially on Steam Deck — have been polished, too.
Sciel Joins Fight in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Performance Upgrades: Frame Gen and Low Latency Mode

Players with DLSS/XeSS-supported GPUs get some performance love here:

  • Frame Generation and Low Latency Mode now supported.
  • Smoother visuals + lower input lag = even more buttery gameplay.

The Game’s Still Going Strong — 3.3 Million Copies Sold

It’s worth noting this patch comes just months after the game launched in April and crossed 3.3 million units sold in May. That’s a massive W for a brand-new IP. And it looks like Sandfall Interactive isn’t slowing down — the devs have already teased that there’s “more to come.”

Clair Obscur’s Latest Update Highlights

  • ✅ Battle Retry prompt lets you restart fights instantly after a loss
  • ✅ Lumina costs now visible in the Pictos menu
  • ✅ Separate volume sliders for combat and exploration
  • ✅ Autoplay dialogue added
  • ✅ Key combat exploits patched
  • ✅ DLSS/XeSS performance boosts for PC players
  • ✅ Achievement unlock bugs fixed
  • ✅ Colorblind-friendly icons added

Final Take

This update might not add new content, but it seriously tightens up the player experience — especially for those deep into the midgame where tough battles and planning matter more than ever. If you’ve been holding off on diving back into Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, now’s a great time to jump in.

Related Articles:

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Clair Obscur: Expedition 33: Sandfall Teases Big Updates

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Devs Want to Add Photo Mode, But It’ll Take Time

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Dev Teases “Great Ideas” for Next Game After Massive Success

Claim 230 Free Pack Hourglasses in Pokémon TCG Pocket — Here’s How

Sacheen Chavan
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Claim 230 Free Pack Hourglasses in Pokémon TCG Pocket — Here’s How

Pokémon TCG Pocket players can now claim up to 230 free Pack Hourglasses (equal to 19 booster packs) with simple steps like linking accounts and battling solo. Here’s how to snag every one.

Free Booster Packs? Say Less

Pokémon TCG Pocket is throwing booster pack fuel at players right now — and it’s not a drill. With the new Wisdom of Sea and Sky (A4) expansion out, players can earn up to 230 Pack Hourglasses, which translates to 19 booster packs. That’s a ton of free pulls for anyone chasing that full-art Rayquaza or just trying to max out their binder flex.

Let’s break down exactly how to get them.

1. Link Your Account – 36 Hourglasses (3 Packs)

Simple move, solid reward. All you have to do is:

  • Tap the hamburger menu (bottom-right corner)
  • Go to Settings > Account
  • Link your Nintendo or app store account

Boom. That’s 36 Hourglasses, free and easy.

2. Trade Token Exchange – 60 Hourglasses (5 Packs)

Got old Trade Tokens collecting dust? Spend ’em before they vanish:

  • Go to the Shop
  • Navigate to Limited Time / Events
  • Exchange your Tokens for either Pack Hourglasses or Shinedust

⚠️ Heads up: One-time deal — once those Tokens are gone, that door’s closed.

3. Solo Battles – 134 Hourglasses (11 Packs)

The classic method. If you’ve been grinding since Day 1, you know the drill. If not:

  • Head to the Battle tab
  • Choose Solo Battles (next to Versus)
  • Complete all available missions tied to the A4 set

Each win, challenge, or milestone tosses Hourglasses your way. It adds up fast.

Why This Matters — Wisdom of Sea and Sky = 220+ Cards

This expansion isn’t small. With 220+ cards, having 19 booster packs on deck gives you:

  • A legit shot at shiny cards or Wonder variants
  • More Trade Token refills for crafting
  • Greater deck diversity for PvP climbing

TL;DR: It’s free cardboard. You want this.

What’s Next? Watch These Upcoming Events

Even more freebies are likely inbound. Keep your eyes peeled for:

  • August 6 – Drop Event
  • Mid-August – Marill & Weavile Wonder Pick Event

These will likely bring bonus Hourglasses or free packs tied to dailies and missions.

Final Thoughts: No Wallet? No Problem.

Pokémon TCG Pocket is hitting that perfect mobile loop right now — frequent updates, generous events, and surprisingly fair monetization (if you play smart). With 230 Pack Hourglasses on the table right now, even F2P players have a shot at building some cracked decks.

Log in, link up, and clean out your Trade Tokens. Free packs wait for no one.

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Anomaly Arbitration Is Coming to Honkai: Star Rail — And It’s No Joke

Asterix & Obelix: Mission Babylon Launches October 2025 with Wacky Co-Op Action

Anomaly Arbitration Is Coming to Honkai: Star Rail — And It’s No Joke

Sacheen Chavan
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0
Anomaly Arbitration Is Coming to Honkai: Star Rail — And It’s No Joke

HoYoverse just announced “Anomaly Arbitration,” a brutal new endgame mode for Honkai: Star Rail coming in Version 3.6. Here’s what you’ll need to unlock it and why it’s not for the faint of heart.

Honkai: Star Rail Is Dropping Its Most Hardcore Mode Yet

Alright, Trailblazers — if you thought Memory of Chaos (MoC) was spicy, HoYoverse is about to toss you into the deep end. “Anomaly Arbitration” is the next permanent high-difficulty mode landing in Version 3.6, and based on what’s been revealed? It’s not pulling any punches.

Think: endgame meets elimination bracket with a side of pain.

What Is Anomaly Arbitration?

Anomaly Arbitration is resetting endgame content that’s way more demanding than anything we’ve seen before. Here’s the TL;DR of how it works:

  • 4 Stages Total:
    • First 3 are trial challenges where you must use three separate teams (no overlapping units).
    • Final Stage lets you pick any combo of units for the last big fight.
  • Insane Requirements to Unlock:
    • Stage 12 of Memory of Chaos
    • Stage 4 of Pure Fiction
    • Difficulty 4 of Apocalyptic Shadow
    • All of the above must be cleared with full stars.

Basically, if you’re not already living in the sweaty tryhard zone, you won’t even see this mode.

Endgame With Real Brain Rot Potential

This isn’t just a test of power — it’s a strategy gauntlet. You’ll need:

  • A deep roster of well-built characters
  • Strong team synergy across all paths
  • Flexibility for unpredictable mechanics in the final stage

No more carrying your teams with Seele, Jingliu, and a prayer. You need multiple meta squads, not just one hypercarry and three meat shields.

Rewards Worth the Grind?

Confirmed so far:

  • Avatar frames
  • Leveling materials
  • Redeemable cosmetics
  • (Most likely) Stellar Jades

HoYoverse also teased exclusive outfits, which is basically catnip for anyone playing for fashion and flex.

When Is It Dropping?

  • Version 3.6 is your target window
  • Based on usual patch cadence, we’re looking at late September 2025
  • More info coming during the August 2 livestream, which will also spotlight new characters Cerydra and Hysilens

Extra Features Coming in 3.6

Anomaly Arbitration isn’t the only thing on the roadmap:

  • Team composition recommendations
  • New UI tab for event previews
  • QoL updates that’ll save you from alt-tabbing to a spreadsheet

Final Thoughts: Is This the New Abyss?

Honestly? This feels like HoYoverse’s answer to the Spiral Abyss “Floor 13” requests in Genshin Impact — something for the elite to sweat over while the rest of us cheer from the sidelines (or quietly reroll our relics for the 500th time).

If you’ve been coasting on auto mode, consider this your wake-up call. Anomaly Arbitration is designed to punish bad builds and reward hardcore prep. You’ll need deep synergy, strong planning, and — let’s be real — some top-tier gacha luck.

So yeah… time to start farming relics. Again.

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Asterix & Obelix: Mission Babylon Launches October 2025 with Wacky Co-Op Action

WoW’s Cooldown Manager Is Getting a Massive Upgrade — Here’s What’s Coming

Asterix & Obelix: Mission Babylon Launches October 2025 with Wacky Co-Op Action

Sacheen Chavan
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0
Asterix & Obelix: Mission Babylon Launches October 2025 with Wacky Co-Op Action

Microids has announced Asterix & Obelix: Mission Babylon, a brand-new local co-op platformer launching October 2025. Here’s what to expect from this comedic classic’s latest adventure.

Gauls Just Wanna Have Fun — Asterix & Obelix Are Back

The mustachioed mischief-makers of comic book fame are back for another round of Roman-punching antics. Asterix & Obelix: Mission Babylon has been officially revealed by developer Microids, bringing a new wave of local co-op chaos to PS5, Switch, and PC this October 2025.

It’s everything you’d expect from an Asterix & Obelix game — humor, action, Roman beatdowns — now wrapped in the smooth shell of a modern co-op platformer.

What’s Mission Babylon All About?

While the full story details are still locked away in Caesar’s vault, here’s what we know:

  • Two-player local co-op is the heart of the game
  • You’ll control Asterix and Obelix, solving puzzles and navigating 20 levels across four unique worlds
  • Expect devices like hoists, switches, and movable platforms — basically all the chaotic physics fun you’d want from a co-op adventure
  • The game will continue the franchise’s signature humor and comic flair, with slapstick Roman-fighting and goofy set pieces galore

If you’ve ever wanted a Saturday morning cartoon version of It Takes Two, this is probably it.

Platform & Release Info

  • Launch Date: October 2025
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC
  • Multiplayer: Local co-op only (as of current info)

No word yet on online play, but this one’s clearly built with couch gaming in mind.

A Quick Recap on the Asterix & Obelix Series

For those unfamiliar, Asterix & Obelix is a long-running French comic series turned game franchise that’s been chugging along since 1983. While it’s a household name in Europe, the series has flown under the radar in the U.S.

Recent years have been especially active:

  • 2018–2023: At least one game released every year
  • 2023 alone saw two new games just weeks apart
  • Focused heavily on beat-em-ups, side-scrollers, and remasters
  • Gained traction thanks to charming animation and loyal fan appeal

With Mission Babylon, the franchise is now getting a fresh co-op glow-up to match the likes of Unravel Two, Chained Together, and It Takes Two.

Why Local Co-Op Games Are Back in Style

After years of everything being online-only, games like It Takes Two proved that local multiplayer still slaps — especially for friends, families, and content creators.

Mission Babylon taps into that same appeal:

  • Simple pick-up-and-play mechanics
  • Wholesome humor for players of all ages
  • Chaotic puzzle-solving that thrives on trial, error, and laughter

What You Need to Know

  • Asterix & Obelix: Mission Babylon launches October 2025
  • Coming to PS5, Switch, and PC
  • Features two-player local co-op gameplay
  • Includes 20 levels across four worlds, physics-based puzzles, and Roman-whacking
  • Continues the comic’s humor and chaotic charm
  • Perfect for fans of lighthearted couch co-op adventures

Final Word: The Gauls Strike Again

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the comic or just looking for a good co-op game to fill your Friday nights, Mission Babylon looks like a lighthearted gem. It may not be the biggest name launching this fall, but with its blend of slapstick, puzzles, and cartoon chaos, it could easily become a co-op sleeper hit.

And let’s be real — there’s always room in your game library for more boar-chomping, Roman-thumping fun.

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WoW’s Cooldown Manager Is Getting a Massive Upgrade — Here’s What’s Coming

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WoW’s Cooldown Manager Is Getting a Massive Upgrade — Here’s What’s Coming

Sacheen Chavan
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0
WoW’s Cooldown Manager Is Getting a Massive Upgrade — Here’s What’s Coming

Blizzard is upgrading World of Warcraft’s Cooldown Manager with new customization tools, debuff tracking, sound alerts, and UI improvements. Here’s everything we know so far.

More Control, Less Clutter: WoW’s Cooldown Manager Is Evolving

Blizzard is doubling down on quality-of-life improvements in World of Warcraft, and next in line for a glow-up is the Cooldown Manager. If you’re a min-maxer, a raid leader, or just someone who likes your cooldowns tidy and your timers exact, you’re in for a treat.

No release date yet, but the list of planned features reads like a dream update for anyone who juggles complex rotations, DoT uptime, or external defensives in group content.

Advanced Cooldown Settings: You’re in Control Now

Blizzard wants to give players full command over what shows up, how it looks, and where it goes. The upcoming Advanced Cooldown Settings include:

  • Toggle specific abilities on or off
  • Reorder cooldowns to prioritize essentials
  • Switch between bars or icons for display
  • Show unlearned abilities for planning ahead
  • Toggle mouseover tooltips and timers
  • Search bar to filter by name or keyword
  • Customize Essentials vs. Utility frames

Whether you’re building a clean raid UI or a PvP setup packed with info, these tools aim to let you tune things exactly to your needs.

Debuff & External Defensive Tracking

The update also plans to tackle debuff and DoT awareness, making it easier to manage damage-over-time effects and track team cooldowns:

For DPS:

  • Track if a DoT is missing, expiring, or in the pandemic window (aka safe to refresh)
  • Especially useful for classes like Affliction Warlocks, Shadow Priests, and Balance Druids

For Tanks:

  • Visual indicators for external defensive cooldowns used by allies (e.g., Pain Suppression, Blessing of Sacrifice), allowing for better mitigation management

Sound Alerts for the Win

In a nod to accessibility and clarity, Blizzard is adding customizable sound alerts that trigger when:

  • Cooldowns come off CD
  • Buffs proc or fall off
  • Specific class mechanics activate

Players will be able to choose specific audio cues for different situations — giving you a more immersive and responsive way to stay on top of your toolkit without constantly staring at your bars.

Edit Mode Upgrades + Profile Swapping

The Cooldown Manager will also get deeper integration with Edit Mode, the UI editing system from Dragonflight, offering:

  • Resizable cooldown frames
  • Repositioning options to keep things ergonomic
  • Multiple UI profiles that automatically switch based on content type (e.g., one layout for raids, another for Mythic+, and another for PvP)

That last one is still in the idea phase, but it’s one of the most requested features by the community — and it’s being seriously considered.

When Is It Coming?

Blizzard hasn’t locked in a timeline yet. All improvements are currently labeled as “in development” with no confirmed release patch. However, with fan feedback driving the roadmap, these features are clearly a high priority.

What’s Coming to the Cooldown Manager?

FeatureDescription
✅ Advanced SettingsToggle, reorder, and customize cooldowns by bar/icon format
🔍 Search FunctionEasily find specific spells or abilities
🩹 Debuff/DoT TrackingAlerts for missing or expiring DoTs
🛡 External Cooldown IndicatorsTrack when allies use defensive cooldowns on you
🔊 Sound AlertsCustom cues for cooldowns and buffs
🎛 Edit Mode IntegrationResizing, repositioning, and multi-profile support

Final Word: A Welcome Buff to QoL

Blizzard’s attention to user interface depth and flexibility shows a real push to modernize WoW without bloating the experience. The Cooldown Manager changes are shaping up to be a huge win for players who love smart, reactive gameplay and crave more info at a glance.

No addons? No problem. With these official tools, your UI might finally feel tailor-made — and raid-ready.

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YouTube’s New Age Check System Estimates Your Age — Even If You Lie About It

YouTube’s New Age Check System Estimates Your Age — Even If You Lie About It

Sacheen Chavan
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0
YouTube’s New Age Check System Estimates Your Age — Even If You Lie About It

YouTube is rolling out a new age verification system in the U.S., using AI and activity tracking to estimate user ages. Here’s how it works — and why it’s sparking backlash.

YouTube Is Joining the Online Safety Movement — But Not Without Controversy

If you thought fudging your birthdate would keep the internet fooled forever, YouTube’s got other plans. The platform is now testing a new age verification system in the United States, and it’s not just relying on the age listed on your Google account. Instead, it’s turning to AI and behavioral data to figure out how old you really are.

This move follows the global trend toward stricter online age restrictions — especially in the wake of the UK’s Online Safety Act — but YouTube’s new system is already stirring up debates around accuracy, privacy, and user control.

What’s the Deal with YouTube’s Age Estimation?

According to a new report from Dexerto, YouTube is:

  • Analyzing user data like viewing history, activity patterns, and account creation date
  • Using this info to estimate a user’s age, even if their birthday is false or hidden
  • Automatically restricting access to age-sensitive content if it believes the user is underage
  • Offering manual verification methods including:
    • Government-issued ID
    • A selfie/photo
    • A credit card check

Basically, if the algorithm flags your account as underage, you’ll need to prove otherwise with real-world documents — and that’s where things get messy.

Why Fans Are Pushing Back

Unsurprisingly, YouTube’s age verification trial is already getting serious side-eye from parts of the internet.

Major Concerns Include:

  • Privacy & Security: Users don’t want to upload government IDs or facial scans to Google, even if YouTube promises they’re not stored long-term.
  • Accuracy of AI: Can an algorithm really tell how old someone is based on their watch history? Critics say false positives could lock out legitimate adult users.
  • Lack of transparency: Many are worried YouTube isn’t clearly explaining how the data is analyzed — or what recourse users have if flagged incorrectly.

This Isn’t Just a YouTube Thing

This move fits into a much bigger online trend that’s escalating fast:

  • The UK’s Online Safety Act is already live, enforcing strict age gates across platforms
  • Discord, Xbox, and Steam are also testing or implementing AI-based verification systems
  • Steam has gone so far as to remove over 100 horror and adult titles in the UK
  • Some users are exploiting photo mode features in games like Death Stranding to fake age checks
  • Others are turning to VPNs to bypass regional restrictions entirely

In short: The arms race between online safety enforcement and digital workarounds is fully on.

What’s Next for YouTube and Age Verification?

YouTube has confirmed that this system is already active in some regions, and its U.S. expansion seems to be part of a slow global rollout. While there’s no full timeline yet, expect:

  • Wider implementation across accounts flagged by the AI
  • Stricter content gating on mature videos
  • Possibly more AI-driven moderation across Google services

And if the current backlash grows, there may be pushes for transparency or opt-out options — but don’t expect the system to go away entirely. Like with the UK’s Online Safety Act, these policies tend to dig in once they’re live.

YouTube’s New Age Check System Explained

  • YouTube is testing AI-based age estimation in the U.S.
  • It doesn’t just rely on your listed birthday — it analyzes account activity to guess your age
  • If flagged as underage, users must verify with ID, photo, or credit card
  • Privacy concerns are already rising over the system’s accuracy and data handling
  • This follows a wider push for online child safety laws, with global platforms enforcing stricter age gates

Final Word: Safety vs. Surveillance?

On paper, protecting younger users online is a good goal — no one’s arguing that. But as platforms like YouTube turn to AI to make judgment calls about your age (based on how often you watch Minecraft vs. true crime), the line between safety and overreach is getting blurry.

For now, the best advice? Keep your account info accurate, read the fine print, and if you’re suddenly locked out of your favorite creator’s spicy uploads… you might have to show YouTube your actual face.

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Xbox Game Pass Breaks Revenue Record with Nearly $5 Billion Earned in 2025

Sacheen Chavan
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0
Xbox Game Pass Breaks Revenue Record with Nearly $5 Billion Earned in 2025

Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass just smashed a revenue record, pulling in nearly $5 billion over the past year. Here’s what that means for gamers — and the future of subscription gaming.

Xbox Game Pass Just Hit a Massive Milestone — And It’s Only Getting Bigger

Gamers, we’ve officially entered the “Game Pass prints money” era. According to Microsoft’s latest earnings report, Xbox Game Pass pulled in nearly $5 billion in revenue over the past 12 months, setting a new all-time high since the service launched back in 2017.

Despite price hikes, mixed reviews on certain features, and unclear subscriber counts, it’s clear the model is working. People are still subbing — and spending.

What’s Behind the Surge?

There’s no one silver bullet here — it’s more like a combo of smart plays:

  • Same-day launches for major titles (hello, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4)
  • Multiple subscription tiers — Core, Standard, PC, and Ultimate
  • A massive catalog of 100+ games, including indie gems, AAA blockbusters, and multiplayer bangers
  • Social features like local co-op and split-screen, which keep players engaged long after the install

This mix of variety + accessibility + monthly FOMO is hitting just right.

Quick Breakdown: The Numbers (and the Gaps)

  • 📈 Revenue: Almost $5 billion (yes, with a “b”)
  • 🔼 Xbox gaming revenue: Up 10% year-over-year
  • 🔼 Content & services: Up 13%
  • 🔽 Hardware revenue: Down 22% (yikes, Series X|S cooling off?)
  • ❓ Subscriber count: Still not officially confirmed

The most recent “official” sub count came in February 2024 at around 34 million. But a LinkedIn flex from a Microsoft program manager in June pegged the number at 35+ million. So… we’re in the ballpark, but don’t expect a clear update from Microsoft unless they hit a new milestone they really want to brag about.

Should You Be Worried About Another Price Hike?

Let’s keep it real — another price bump is likely on the way. June 2025 rumors suggest adjustments are already being considered. Given that the service keeps growing despite prior increases, Microsoft has every incentive to push the envelope a little further.

The good news? Game Pass is still arguably the best value in gaming if you’re playing even a couple of games a month. Just… maybe lock in a long-term sub now if you’re worried about pricing upshifts later.

Game Pass’s Growing Influence on the Industry

Xbox Game Pass isn’t just winning for Microsoft — it’s shaping the way publishers think:

  • Ubisoft, EA, and Sony have already dipped into subscription waters
  • Indies are getting massive exposure through Game Pass spotlights
  • Cloud gaming and cross-platform integration are becoming standard expectations
  • Publishers are watching and wondering: Should we do this too?

With subscription models becoming more dominant, it’s safe to say the Game Pass blueprint will continue spreading. Whether that’s a W or an L depends on how well competitors handle it — and how fair they are to players.

Summary

  • Xbox Game Pass just hit nearly $5 billion in revenue, a new record for Microsoft.
  • Sub counts remain unofficial, but estimates put it around 35+ million users.
  • Hardware sales are down, but content and services are thriving.
  • Another price hike might be coming — brace for impact.
  • Game Pass is setting the bar for the future of digital gaming subscriptions.

Final Take

Xbox Game Pass isn’t slowing down — it’s picking up steam. And as more studios jump into the subscription pool, we’re going to see a lot of shifting dynamics in how games are sold, played, and talked about.

Whether you’re riding the Game Pass train for the value or just here for the day-one drops, the service’s success is shaping the next era of gaming. And yeah, that next price bump is probably not far off — but for now, the content-to-cost ratio still slaps.

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Marvel Rivals Season 3.5: New Team-Ups, Removals, and Meta Shake-Ups Incoming

Sacheen Chavan
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0
Marvel Rivals Season 3.5: New Team-Ups, Removals, and Meta Shake-Ups Incoming

Marvel Rivals reveals major Team-Up changes in Season 3.5, adding new synergies with Adam Warlock, Luna Snow, Mantis, and Blade, while removing outdated combos. Full breakdown here.

Season 3.5 Team-Up Update: Marvel Rivals Is Shuffling the Deck

Marvel Rivals just dropped a preview for its upcoming Season 3.5 update, and the big headline? Team-Up overhauls. If you thought your favorite synergy was locked in for the long run — think again. NetEase is mixing things up with two new Team-Ups, four reworks, and two removals, all landing on August 8.

These updates aren’t just balance tweaks. They’re full-on shifts designed to refresh strategy, mix up the meta, and maybe give your sidelined mains a moment in the spotlight. Let’s break it down.

New Team-Ups in Season 3.5

1. Duality Dance — Adam Warlock & Luna Snow

This new combo leans hard into Warlock’s high-tier support role. When linked up with Luna Snow, his powers bind enemies, turning their damage into healing for her. Basically: your damage is her fuel now. Sounds brutal in the right hands.

2. Vibrant Vitality — Mantis, Loki & Groot

This is a healing-heavy power trio.

  • Mantis feeds Life Energy,
  • Loki boosts stats via lamps,
  • Groot heals through his walls.

The potential for sustain here is off the charts — especially in drawn-out team fights.

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Team-Up Adjustments: Who’s In, Who’s Out?

These aren’t just small number tweaks. Several Team-Ups are being restructured entirely:

✅ Reworked Team-Ups:

  • Chilling Assault: Now includes Iron Fist with Hawkeye and Luna Snow. He brings Harmony Recovery, a self and team heal that adds survivability to the previously damage-heavy setup.
  • Rocket Network: Gains Star-Lord alongside Peni Parker and Rocket Raccoon. Star-Lord now rocks a teleport beacon, adding mobility and repositioning options.
  • Lunar Force: Welcomes Blade into the fold with Cloak & Dagger and Moon Knight. Blade gets a self-healing invisibility dome, perfect for clutch escapes or stealth kills.
  • Ragnarok Rebirth: Loses Loki. Now only Hela and Thor, with a simplified resurrection focus. Straightforward, but possibly more niche.

Removed Team-Ups

Sometimes, old combos need to go to make room for new ones. RIP to:

  • Guardian Revival (Adam Warlock / Mantis / Star-Lord)
  • Atlas Bond (Iron Fist / Luna Snow)

These are getting completely axed from the game when Season 3.5 lands. Pour one out for your backup support trio.

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Why It Matters: The Meta’s Getting a Refresh

These Team-Up changes might look cosmetic, but they’re meta-defining:

  • Support and sustain comps are getting stronger — especially with Mantis and Groot in the same trio.
  • Mobility and tactical repositioning are gaining traction, with teleport and invisibility now being viable mid-fight tools.
  • Old go-to combos are being split up, forcing players to explore new synergies.

It’s NetEase clearly saying: adapt, or get left behind.

When’s It All Happening?

📅 Season 3.5 Launch Date:
 August 8, 2025

If you’re grinding comp or just casually vibing in matches, this is your sign to start theorycrafting now — because once these new Team-Ups drop, expect a noticeable shift in how fights play out.

Summary

  • Two New Team-Ups:
    • Duality Dance (Adam Warlock/Luna Snow)
    • Vibrant Vitality (Mantis/Loki/Groot)
  • Four Adjusted Team-Ups:
    • Chilling Assault, Rocket Network, Lunar Force, Ragnarok Rebirth
  • Two Team-Ups Removed:
    • Guardian Revival, Atlas Bond
  • Season 3.5 drops August 8

Final Take

Marvel Rivals continues to keep things fresh, and this update proves that Team-Ups aren’t set in stone. Whether you’re a diehard Groot main or just someone who likes breaking the meta, there’s something to get excited about here.

Now’s the time to start testing comps, figuring out who clicks with who — and maybe, just maybe, discovering a combo that goes viral on Day One.

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Wuthering Waves Version 2.6 Adds Augusta and Iuno as Playable 5-Stars — Here’s What to Expect

Sacheen Chavan
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0
Wuthering Waves Version 2.6 Adds Augusta and Iuno as Playable 5-Stars — Here’s What to Expect

Augusta and Iuno are confirmed for Wuthering Waves 2.6! Here’s a full breakdown of their kits, story roles, banner timeline, and what it means for the current state of the game.

Augusta and Iuno Are Finally Playable in Wuthering Waves 2.6

Wuthering Waves just confirmed what fans have been theorizing since Version 2.4 — Augusta and Iuno are joining the playable roster in the upcoming 2.6 update. Kuro Games announced their debut through official social channels, and it’s safe to say: the Septimont squad is about to hit different.

If you’ve been keeping up with the story, you already know these two were inevitable. But now we’ve got full confirmation, kit details, and banner phase predictions — let’s dig into it.

Also check: Wuthering Waves Codes

wuthering waves 2.6 augusta

Quick Rundown: Who Are Augusta and Iuno?

  • Augusta:
    • 5-Star Electro
    • Weapon: Broadblade
    • Role: Undefeated gladiator, tactical queen, and full-on Septimont boss.
    • Story: Major figure in the Grand Agon arc, and a fan-favorite since 2.4’s Overture quests.
  • Iuno:
    • 5-Star Aero
    • Weapon: Gauntlets
    • Role: Calm, composed Priestess and Augusta’s personal advisor.
    • Story: Appeared alongside Augusta, offering spiritual balance to her brute-force energy.

Based on Kuro’s marketing order, Augusta will likely headline Phase 1 of 2.6, while Iuno will wrap things up in Phase 2.

A Look Back: How We Got Here

Let’s rewind for a sec. Version 2.5 was all about Phrolova, and while her debut was flashy, it left some players underwhelmed — especially due to her heavy dependence on Cantarella to reach her full potential. That’s led to a lot of concern over character synergy and role diversity.

In contrast, Augusta and Iuno look like a more self-contained power duo — and let’s be honest, Electro Broadblade and Aero Gauntlets? That screams potential for some real kinetic chaos on the battlefield.

wuthering waves 2.6 augusta

Banner Timeline & Expectations for Version 2.6

➤ Version 2.6 Release Date:

Expected late August, right after Phase 2 of the current 2.5 banners.

➤ Phase 1 (Late August):

Augusta steps into the arena.

➤ Phase 2 (Mid-September):

Iuno floats in with all that priestess poise.

Note: No new 4-Star characters have been announced, which is… kind of a bummer. Fans have been pointing out the lack of fresh 4-Stars since December 2024, and unfortunately, 2.6 looks like it’s sticking to the “only 5-Stars matter” formula for now.

Community Reactions & Gameplay Concerns

While excitement is building for Augusta and Iuno, there’s still a storm cloud hanging over Wuthering Waves: team comp disparity.

Many players feel that newer characters are too reliant on others to work well — which discourages creative builds and hurts F2P flexibility. With Augusta and Iuno being teased as high-tier units with strong lore backing, the community’s hoping they’ll bring standalone strength rather than just being accessory pieces to existing metas.

wuthering waves 2.6 iuno

What’s Next for Wuthering Waves?

With Brant and Cantarella rerunning soon in Phase 2 of 2.5, players have some big decisions to make. Should you pull now or save for Augusta and Iuno? Here’s a pro tip:

  • If you’re light on Electro or Aero DPS, Augusta and Iuno might be your future mains.
  • If you already built out Phrolova or Roccia, maybe finish your teams before diving back into banner limbo.

And if you’re one of those players praying for a new 4-Star unit? Keep those fingers crossed for Version 2.7 — Kuro Games has been responsive to feedback in the past, so there’s hope on the horizon.

Summary

  • Augusta (5★ Electro Broadblade) and Iuno (5★ Aero Gauntlets) are officially coming in Version 2.6.
  • Augusta is expected to launch first, followed by Iuno in Phase 2.
  • No new 4-Star characters announced — fans still waiting since December.
  • Gameplay concerns remain about character synergy and team-building limitations.
  • Version 2.6 drops late August, just as 2.5 winds down.

Augusta’s about to bring the thunder. Iuno’s about to bring the calm. Wuthering Waves 2.6 might be missing 4-Stars, but it’s not missing heat.

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