Squid Game's second season is officially Netflix's biggest TV debut

Squid Game has shattered Netflix records with its second season, drawing in 68 million views in just four days. Despite its critique of capitalism, the show has also become a lucrative franchise for the streaming platform. As the highly anticipated third season approaches, will Squid Game continue to break boundaries and captivate audiences worldwide? Read [...]

source https://funfect.games/squid-games-second-season-is-officially-netflixs-biggest-tv-debut/

Methods & Solutions to Fix Error Code EFEAB30C Problem Issue

NBA2K is a popular basketball simulation game with a known error code issue, EFEAB30C. This error can occur due to various reasons such as an outdated game version, unverified email account, multiple linked 2K accounts, or damaged data. Fixing this error involves updating the game, verifying the registered email account, adding the game to the [...]

source https://funfect.games/methods-solutions-to-fix-error-code-efeab30c-problem-issue/

Stardew Valley has topped 41 million lifetime sales

Stardew Valley has reached an impressive milestone of 41 million lifetime sales across all platforms, with 26 million on PC and 7.9 million on Nintendo Switch. The game continues to thrive since its launch in 2016, showing consistent growth in sales and player base. As developer ConcernedApe works on a new project, Haunted Chocolatier, the [...]

source https://funfect.games/stardew-valley-has-topped-41-million-lifetime-sales/

SNK Corporation establishes KOF Studio

SNK Corporation has announced the establishment of KOF Studio, which will continue the legacy of SNK fighting games and bring forth a new revolution in the genre. The studio’s past works include iconic titles like The King of Fighters and Samurai Shodown, with exciting new projects in the works such as Fatal Fury: City of [...]

source https://funfect.games/snk-corporation-establishes-kof-studio/

Company Spotlight: Photon Engine

Photon is a leading multiplayer technology company based in Hamburg, Germany, with over 900,000 developers worldwide and over 1.4 billion monthly active players. Their state-of-the-art solutions simplify the creation and operation of high-quality multiplayer games and have been instrumental in the success of popular titles such as Stumble Guys, Phasmophobia, and Among Us VR. With [...]

source https://funfect.games/company-spotlight-photon-engine/

Mastering Dungeons Podcast

I had the exciting opportunity to be a guest on the Mastering Dungeons podcast to discuss my new book on the psychology of Dungeons & Dragons. It was a fun experience chatting with Shawn and Teos, two hosts I admire. It’s always great to combine my passion for psychology with the world of D&D. How [...]

source https://funfect.games/mastering-dungeons-podcast/

2025s upcoming games poised to be best-sellers

The gaming industry is gearing up for an exciting 2025 with a lineup of highly anticipated titles such as Grand Theft Auto VI, Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, and Sid Meier’s Civilization 7. With a mix of sequels, new IPs, and innovative gameplay mechanics, gamers have a lot to look forward to in the coming [...]

source https://funfect.games/2025s-upcoming-games-poised-to-be-best-sellers/

Daily Deals: Persona 5 Royal HORI Split Pad Compact Gran Turismo 7 and More

As 2025 approaches, take advantage of some last-minute holiday deals on popular games and accessories. From Persona 5 Royal to Xenoblade Chronicles 2 to WD_BLACK NVMe SSDs, there’s something for every gamer. What deals are you most excited about, and what games are on your must-play list for the new year? Let’s hear your thoughts! [...]

source https://funfect.games/daily-deals-persona-5-royal-hori-split-pad-compact-gran-turismo-7-and-more/

A Look Back At The Gaming Highs And Lows Of 2024

In 2024, Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo worked to navigate the challenges of aging consoles without announcing replacements just yet. The year brought highs and lows, surprises and disappointments for gamers. As we look back on the year, what were your personal highlights and low points in gaming? And what are you most looking forward to [...]

source https://funfect.games/a-look-back-at-the-gaming-highs-and-lows-of-2024/

What gaming really tells us about the human condition

Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, recommends the Royal Game of Ur as a unique gift idea. Gaming has been a popular pastime throughout history, revealing truths about our characters and choices. Modern single-player games allow for more personal exploration, while multiplayer games can showcase our competitive nature. When faced with choices between good and [...]

source https://funfect.games/what-gaming-really-tells-us-about-the-human-condition/

The Exit 8 live-action movie announced

TOHO has announced a live-action movie adaptation of the popular game The Exit 8, set to premiere in 2025. The game creator, KOTAKE CREATE, expressed excitement and gratitude for the unexpected movie adaptation. The movie manages to capture the world and atmosphere of the game, with KOTAKE CREATE even visiting the set during production. With [...]

source https://funfect.games/the-exit-8-live-action-movie-announced/

Craig Chapple's top stories of 2024: Inside Lilith Games Tim Sweeney's app store war Sensor Tower's data.ai acquisition and more

In 2024, some of the biggest stories in the mobile gaming industry included Lilith Games’ unique company culture, Epic Games’ battle against Apple and Google, significant M&A deals like Sensor Tower acquiring data.ai, and the rise of rewarded play platforms. Finland’s mobile games sector faced challenges, while Xsolla made headlines by sponsoring a local football [...]

source https://funfect.games/craig-chapples-top-stories-of-2024-inside-lilith-games-tim-sweeneys-app-store-war-sensor-towers-data-ai-acquisition-and-more/

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Writers Would Love to Write a Zelda: The Wind Waker Film

The Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie, co-written by Pat Casey and Josh Miller, was recently released in theatres and the writers are currently thriving with various projects. In a recent interview, they discussed their dream video game adaptations, including potential films based on Golden Axe and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker. Despite not [...]

source https://funfect.games/sonic-the-hedgehog-3-writers-would-love-to-write-a-zelda-the-wind-waker-film/

The State Of The PlayStation 5 In 2024

In 2024, Sony’s PlayStation 5 saw the launch of the PS5 Pro and various software updates, showcasing the platform’s continued evolution. While there were setbacks like the failure of Concord, there were also successes like Astro Bot and Helldivers 2. Looking ahead, the PS5 seems poised for more exciting releases in the coming years. What [...]

source https://funfect.games/the-state-of-the-playstation-5-in-2024/

Games console makers will get a power up in a slower market

The consumer attention span for gaming consoles seems to be increasing, with older consoles still performing well for companies like Sony and Nintendo. Cloud streaming and digital distribution are boosting profits in the gaming industry. Will other industries see a similar trend of products lasting longer and still being profitable? Read the Full Article

source https://funfect.games/games-console-makers-will-get-a-power-up-in-a-slower-market/

Android phone makers dropped the ball on Qi2 in 2024

Android phones have been leading the charge in innovative features and standards, being the first to support 4G, 5G, USB-C, and wireless charging. However, when it came to adopting the Qi2 wireless charging standard, Android phone makers were slow to react. Despite the convenience and popularity of MagSafe accessories on iPhones, only one Android phone, [...]

source https://funfect.games/android-phone-makers-dropped-the-ball-on-qi2-in-2024/

Sega mulls games subscription service

Sega is considering launching a video game subscription service, joining other publishers like Ubisoft and EA. The company is evaluating opportunities to revive its brand and regain confidence in the industry. Could this move help Sega regain its former glory and compete with other subscription services in the market? Read the Full Article

source https://funfect.games/sega-mulls-games-subscription-service/

Squid Game Unleashed players can unlock in-game rewards by watching Squid Game Season 2

Netflix announced that players of the Squid Game Unleashed game can unlock in-game rewards by watching Squid Game Season 2. The more they watch, the more rewards they win, expanding on the concept of transmedia storytelling. This innovative approach leverages Netflix’s streaming video leadership and its growing position in mobile games. By tying in-game rewards [...]

source https://funfect.games/squid-game-unleashed-players-can-unlock-in-game-rewards-by-watching-squid-game-season-2/

AIAS to honor Nintendo of America veteran Don James

Don James, a Nintendo of America veteran, will receive the AIAS Lifetime Achievement Award for his four decades of contributions to the gaming industry. His involvement in key initiatives and organizations has left a lasting impact on video game history. What other industry veterans do you believe deserve recognition for their contributions to gaming? Share [...]

source https://funfect.games/aias-to-honor-nintendo-of-america-veteran-don-james/

Daily Deals: Gran Turismo 7 Persona 3 Reload LEGO Horizon Adventures and More

Looking for some great deals this weekend? Look no further! From Gran Turismo 7 and Persona 3 Reload to Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection and Alan Wake II, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme model and DJI Action 2 for your gaming and filming needs. With these discounts, now [...]

source https://funfect.games/daily-deals-gran-turismo-7-persona-3-reload-lego-horizon-adventures-and-more/

Pokémon TCG Pocket's Game-Changing Update And More Of The Week's Big News

Despite the year winding down, the gaming industry is as lively as ever. Controversies around Game of the Year decisions and pricey DLC are sparking heated debates among developers and fans. Meanwhile, exciting new game announcements from Day of the Devs are giving gamers plenty to look forward to. What do these ongoing discussions and [...]

source https://funfect.games/pokemon-tcg-pockets-game-changing-update-and-more-of-the-weeks-big-news/

DOC finalizes semiconductor awards totaling nearly $7 billion for Samsung Texas Instruments and Amkor

The US Department of Commerce awarded Samsung, Texas Instruments, and Amkor Technology over $6.75 billion under the CHIPS Incentives Program to support domestic semiconductor production. Samsung plans to invest $37 billion in expanding chip development and production in the US, Texas Instruments is building three new facilities, and Amkor is creating an advanced packaging and [...]

source https://funfect.games/doc-finalizes-semiconductor-awards-totaling-nearly-7-billion-for-samsung-texas-instruments-and-amkor/

Game Developer's 2024 Wrap-Up: 5 devs that made an impact

In 2024, despite numerous challenges, game developers like Godot, GSC Game World, Microsoft Gaming Accessibility Team, and Capcom have made remarkable contributions to the industry. These developers have displayed resilience, innovation, and commitment to creating impactful games and tools. However, the rise of User Generated Content platforms also brings to light issues of exploitation and [...]

source https://funfect.games/game-developers-2024-wrap-up-5-devs-that-made-an-impact/

Fourth Sonic the Hedgehog film announced

SEGA and Paramount have announced that a fourth Sonic the Hedgehog movie is in development, expected to release in spring 2027. The third movie, Sonic the Hedgehog 3, is set to premiere in December 2022 with positive early reviews. While plot details for the fourth installment are still under wraps, fans can look forward to [...]

source https://funfect.games/fourth-sonic-the-hedgehog-film-announced/

Dragon Ball Games Battle Hour 2025

Bandai Namco will host Dragon Ball Games Battle Hour 2025 in Los Angeles, featuring various stage events such as Dragon Ball Super Card Game, Dragon Ball Legends, and Dragon Ball Z: Dokkan Battle. The event will also include the Grand Finals of Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO tournament. With a lineup of exciting announcements and tournaments, [...]

source https://funfect.games/dragon-ball-games-battle-hour-2025/

Loads of Nvidia GeForce RTX 5000 laptop gaming GPU specs just leaked in blunder

A Russian retailer leaked details of a series of laptops containing Nvidia GeForce RTX 5000 GPUs, revealing specs such as VRAM and power output. This is one of the first major leaks for this hardware, with laptops equipped with GPUs ranging from the RTX 5090 to the 5050. The leak also hints at potential cutbacks [...]

source https://funfect.games/loads-of-nvidia-geforce-rtx-5000-laptop-gaming-gpu-specs-just-leaked-in-blunder/

Big Screen Gaming coming to PGC London 2025

Pocket Gamer Connects London 2025 is expanding its focus to include Big Screen Gaming, exploring opportunities in PC and console game development. The conference offers valuable insights, live demonstrations, networking opportunities, and the chance to be among the top UK game makers. Don’t miss out on this unique chance to thrive in the interconnected world [...]

source https://funfect.games/big-screen-gaming-coming-to-pgc-london-2025/

SpongeBob SquarePants is the latest icon to join the UEFN platform

SpongeBob SquarePants and Bikini Bottom have been brought into Fortnite through a collaboration between Paramount Game Studios and marketing agency Zoned. Four games based on the popular animated series have been created, including Red vs Blue, Prop Hunt, Slap Fight, and Only Up. This collaboration aims to engage with the Fortnite community and bring the [...]

source https://funfect.games/spongebob-squarepants-is-the-latest-icon-to-join-the-uefn-platform/

Sonic musician suing Sega of America over song rights

Sega of America is being sued by Crush 40 member Johnny Gioeli over the song ‘Live & Learn’ used in Sonic Adventure 2. Gioeli claims ownership and is seeking compensation and clarity on the rights. This lawsuit raises questions about ownership and contracts in the music industry, particularly in collaborations with video game developers. It [...]

source https://funfect.games/sonic-musician-suing-sega-of-america-over-song-rights/

The Hidden Ones (Hitori No Shita: The Outcasts) Preview: Not Just a Pretty Face

The Hidden Ones is an arena fighter game based on the anime Hitori No Shita: The Outcasts, featuring stunning visuals and detailed environments. The game offers a unique combat system with rock-paper-scissors mechanics and strategic stamina management. With challenging boss fights and a variety of gameplay modes, The Hidden Ones offers a balance of simplicity [...]

source https://funfect.games/the-hidden-ones-hitori-no-shita-the-outcasts-preview-not-just-a-pretty-face/

Here's One Thing Marvel Rivals Won't Copy From Overwatch 2

Guangyun “Guangguang” Chen, creative director of Marvel Rivals, has stated that despite player requests, there are no current plans to implement a role queue system in the game. While some may desire a more balanced matchmaking experience, Chen emphasizes the importance of allowing players to freely choose their favorite Marvel superheroes and explore different team [...]

source https://funfect.games/heres-one-thing-marvel-rivals-wont-copy-from-overwatch-2/

Seagate teases its first HAMR-based hard drive

Seagate is set to release a new hard drive based on HAMR technology, offering 3TB per platter with increased power efficiency. HAMR allows for smaller regions and more space per platter, potentially leading to a 50TB HDD in the future. With no official release date yet, the Exos M is making waves in the world [...]

source https://funfect.games/seagate-teases-its-first-hamr-based-hard-drive/

'This is comedy': Balatro developer Localthunk baffled after PEGI hands title 18 rating

The European rating agency PEGI has given the game Balatro an 18+ rating due to its potential to teach players real-world poker skills. Developer Localthunk expressed surprise at this decision, questioning why other games with in-game spending and randomized item packs are considered suitable for children. While PEGI cited the game’s prominent gambling imagery as [...]

source https://funfect.games/this-is-comedy-balatro-developer-localthunk-baffled-after-pegi-hands-title-18-rating/

Natsumes Book of Friends: Hazuki no Shirushi game announced

The Natsume’s Book of Friends Production Committee has revealed a new game, Natsume’s Book of Friends: Hazuki no Shirushi. While specifics remain unknown, fans can expect more details to be unveiled on December 23. Could this game be a new and exciting addition to the beloved manga series, or will it fall short of fans’ [...]

source https://funfect.games/natsumes-book-of-friends-hazuki-no-shirushi-game-announced/

Samsung takes cue from NYT as it introduces games to News app

Samsung is expanding its News app on Galaxy devices to include a trivia game called The Six. The game offers daily challenges with questions on various topics. Samsung plans to add more games to the app in the future, showing its commitment to providing diverse gaming experiences to its users. This move highlights the increasing [...]

source https://funfect.games/samsung-takes-cue-from-nyt-as-it-introduces-games-to-news-app/

The best of The Game Awards and the redemption of Geoff Keighley | The DeanBeat

Geoff Keighley redeemed himself with an impressive tenth anniversary Game Awards show, featuring memorable moments, new game trailers, and well-deserved awards. The event also highlighted important industry topics, such as layoffs and the impact of individuals like Amir Satvat. The show brought together gaming and Hollywood with celebrity appearances, new game reveals, and collaborations between [...]

source https://funfect.games/the-best-of-the-game-awards-and-the-redemption-of-geoff-keighley-the-deanbeat/

Sounds disruptive: How video games are resetting the music medium's conventions | Playable Futures

The Playable Futures series explores the intersection of music and video games, highlighting the potential for new experiences and opportunities in this evolving landscape. Styngr, a gaming-focused platform, aims to modernize the connection between music and games by providing efficient ways to integrate music into gaming experiences. The collaboration between music and games is expected [...]

source https://funfect.games/sounds-disruptive-how-video-games-are-resetting-the-music-mediums-conventions-playable-futures/

Daily Deals: Cowboy Bebop Roblox Gift Cards Final Fantasy XVI and More

This weekend’s deals include discounts on popular anime series like Cowboy Bebop, as well as savings on gaming gift cards and popular titles like Final Fantasy XVI and Astro Bot. There are also discounts on handheld gaming devices like the Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme and action games like Stellar Blade. Are you planning to [...]

source https://funfect.games/daily-deals-cowboy-bebop-roblox-gift-cards-final-fantasy-xvi-and-more/

CD Projekt Reveals Witcher IV With a New Female Protagonist

In the highly awaited game, players will get to experience the story through the eyes of Ciri, the adopted daughter of the original lead character. As she navigates through challenging quests and battles, players will witness her growth and evolution into a formidable figure in the game’s world. How will Ciri’s unique perspective and abilities [...]

source https://funfect.games/cd-projekt-reveals-witcher-iv-with-a-new-female-protagonist/

Elden Ring's Multiplayer Spin-Off Has A Playtest Coming Up And You Can Register For It Soon

FromSoftware has announced a network test for Elden Ring: Nightreign, a multiplayer spin-off of the popular game. Players can register for the test in January, with the test set to take place in February. The game will feature open-world challenges and unique gameplay mechanics, with a focus on cooperative gameplay in a three-person squad. It [...]

source https://funfect.games/elden-rings-multiplayer-spin-off-has-a-playtest-coming-up-and-you-can-register-for-it-soon/

Ultra Engine 0.9.8 Introduces Material Painting with Tessellation and Displacement

The latest version of Ultra Engine, 0.9.8, introduces a material painting system, robust tessellation, and a first-person shooter template to streamline game development. With features like fine control over displacement settings and a ready-to-use FPS demo, Ultra Engine offers a powerful tool for creating visually stunning and fast-running games. How do you think these new [...]

source https://funfect.games/ultra-engine-0-9-8-introduces-material-painting-with-tessellation-and-displacement/

Adobes new Photoshop tool can clean away window reflections

Adobe has introduced a new Reflection Removal tool that uses AI to eliminate window reflections from photos. The tool is currently available for preview in Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Bridge for Creative Cloud subscribers. However, it may not work well with small or distant reflections, such as those from wine glasses or car bodies. This [...]

source https://funfect.games/adobes-new-photoshop-tool-can-clean-away-window-reflections/

Insulation vs isolation: The question defining the future of Australia's game industry

Australia’s video game industry has flourished through a combination of self-sufficiency, cautious growth, and robust government funding. However, as the industry reaches a ceiling imposed by its current approach, the question arises: should it continue on this path or lean further into the international market? Both options present challenges and opportunities for the future of [...]

source https://funfect.games/insulation-vs-isolation-the-question-defining-the-future-of-australias-game-industry/

TRIBIT StormBox 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Review

The TRIBIT StormBox 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker is a compact yet powerful device that has impressed with its sound quality and durability. With easy-to-use controls and a long-lasting battery, it’s perfect for on-the-go use whether it’s for music, gaming, or more. The addition of TWS functionality and an IPX7 waterproof rating only add to its [...]

source https://funfect.games/tribit-stormbox-2-portable-bluetooth-speaker-review/

Beam Ventures launches $150M fund to make Abu Dhabi into a global gaming hub

The Beam Foundation is launching Beam Ventures in Abu Dhabi, a $150 million gaming venture fund aimed at accelerating promising founders and shaping the future of gaming. This fund focuses on blockchain, gaming, AI, virtual reality, and augmented reality in gaming. With Abu Dhabi’s growing gaming infrastructure and commitment to nurturing talent, Beam Ventures aims [...]

source https://funfect.games/beam-ventures-launches-150m-fund-to-make-abu-dhabi-into-a-global-gaming-hub/

Clear Angle Studios opens new location in Los Angeles

Clear Angle Studios, a 3D capture and processing company, has opened a new location in Culver City, Los Angeles, offering services such as character scanning and digital facial capture. Partnering with the Creative Artists Agency Vault, the studio has already worked on projects for the games industry and film productions. The increasing demand for scanning [...]

source https://funfect.games/clear-angle-studios-opens-new-location-in-los-angeles/

Methods to Fix Total War Launcher has Stopped Working Problem Issue

Total War is a strategy-based game series that has been praised as a masterpiece by those who know it. However, recent complaints about the launcher crashing or not working have been common. This troubleshooting guide offers solutions to fix the Total War Launcher has Stopped Working issue, including disabling mods, deleting cache data, and using [...]

source https://funfect.games/methods-to-fix-total-war-launcher-has-stopped-working-problem-issue/

Warhammer 40000: Space Marine 2 Patch 5 Makes Big Balance Changes Completely Reworks Blocking Weapons

The Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Patch 5 brings significant balance changes to the game, including a complete rework of Blocking weapons to make them more effective. The update also introduces new features, such as the Extermination Bonus in Operations mode, and addresses issues with melee combat, firearms, and enemy spawns. It’s clear that Saber [...]

source https://funfect.games/warhammer-40000-space-marine-2-patch-5-makes-big-balance-changes-completely-reworks-blocking-weapons/

Grand Theft Auto VI Will Rule the Video Game Industry in 2025

The anticipation for the first GTA game in over a decade is sky-high, but will it live up to the hype? With fans expecting groundbreaking gameplay and stunning graphics, the pressure is on for Rockstar to deliver. Are the expectations for this long-awaited release setting it up for success or setting it up for disappointment? [...]

source https://funfect.games/grand-theft-auto-vi-will-rule-the-video-game-industry-in-2025/

December's Cant-Miss Game Releases Amazon's Free Games For Prime Members And More Holiday Season Tips

This week, multiple companies like Sony, BioWare, Amazon, and more are offering exciting holiday sales and giveaways for gamers. From Amazon giving away free games to Prime subscribers to PlayStation’s 30th Anniversary sale, there are plenty of opportunities to score great deals. With so many options available, it’s a great time to stock up on [...]

source https://funfect.games/decembers-cant-miss-game-releases-amazons-free-games-for-prime-members-and-more-holiday-season-tips/