EA’s New ‘Skate’ Unveils Gameplay Trailer, Sets Early Access Date (Gaming News Roundup)
“skate.,” the fourth installment in Electronic Arts’ “Skate” video game franchise, has unveiled its gameplay trailer.
From publisher EA and developer Full Circle, the game will go into Early Access Sept. 16 across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and for PC via Steam, Epic Games Store and the EA app.
“skate.” will be “free-to-download, cross-platform, and cross-progression,” per EA, “making it as accessible as possible for both longtime skate. franchise fans, and newcomers alike.”
“Set in the vibrant city of San Vansterdam, ‘skate.’ is a multiplayer skateboarding destination offering a massive open world where players discover unique skate spots, land insane tricks and connect – or compete – with friends online,” the game’s description reads. “With four unique neighborhoods – Hedgemont, Gullcrest, Market Mile and Brickswich – each offering its own distinct vibe and challenges, the city is a huge playground for skaters. From parks and plazas to rooftops and massive ramps, every corner is packed with skateable spots, including the House of Rolling Reverence, a former church transformed into a trick haven for skaters.”
“’skate.’ is not just a return, it’s a complete evolution of the franchise that’s built to last,” “skate.” executive producer Mike McCartney said. “Our goal with ‘skate.’ is to capture the freedom, creative expression and community of skateboarding, and share it with as many people as possible. From day one, our priority has been to honor the legacy of the franchise while pushing it into a bold new future – one built in partnership with our players.”
Watch the new “skate.” gameplay trailer below.
See more gaming news from this week in the roundup below.
Sega released a new trailer for “Shinobi: Art of Vengeance” ahead of the game’s Friday release.
*
Developed by Gambrinous, an indie studio based in Dublin, Ireland, “Eyes of Hellfire” has launched in early access and dropped a new trailer. The title is a co-operative gothic horror game inspired by Irish folklore. Up to five players must work together to explore, fight, and puzzle their way to free themselves from the iconic lodge. But it won’t be easy. Violent entities lurk within the hallways and the mysterious Host may sound welcoming but has his own agenda. Plus, each player in the group has their own curse that they must break to truly escape. Do you trust your friends not to betray you in order to get what they want?
*
Hoyoverse announced “Honkai: Nexus Anima,” a brand-new entry in the beloved Honkai franchise, and opening recruitment for its first closed beta — the Nexus Bond Test. Registration is now live on PC and iOS through Sept. 12.
Per Hoyoverse, “Honkai: Nexus Anima” blends creature collection with strategic adventure. In a world where unseen bonds between concepts like Light and Dark or Life and Death have ruptured, players will forge connections with companions known as Anima. Each carries unique powers that can be combined in battle, setting the stage for fresh strategies and new stories in the Honkai universe.
“Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater,” a remake of “Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater,” released this week. The Konami-developed title is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and Steam.
Based on Hideo Kojima’s 2004 hit PlayStation 2 title, “Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater,” “Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater” follows FOX operative codenamed Naked Snake, who is deployed deep behind enemy lines to prevent a nuclear conflict between global superpowers at the height of the Cold War. His mission quickly devolves into a struggle for survival in a harsh and unforgiving environment where Snake must face the ultimate test. The remake stars the original voice characters, a rich storyline and expansive features of combat survival evolved with unprecedented graphics and immersive sound.
*
“Kirby and the Forgotten Land” the “Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World” game edition launched for Nintendo Switch 2 this week.
The Nintendo Switch 2 version lets Kirby fans re-live the fun of the original game, while enjoying high quality graphics and faster frame rates. A brand new story and surprises await in Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World, including three new Mouthful Modes, added challenges like The Ultimate Cup Z EX and more:
VR developer Played With Fire and publisher Broken Mirror Games in partnership with Viacom International Inc. announced “Star Trek: Infection,” an upcoming full-body VR, narrative survival experience set in the iconic “Star Trek” universe.
Per the game’s description, “In ‘Star Trek: Infection,’ players step into the boots of a Vulcan Starfleet officer tasked with a covert mission aboard the U.S.S. Lumen where things quickly spiral into a psychological and physical nightmare.”
*
New game “Hello Kitty and Friends: Freeze Tag Party” will launch on Nintendo Switch Nov. 6. Published by Nighthawk Interactive, the Sanrio-characters-inspired game has been priced at $39.99.
Per developer by Imagineer, “‘Hello Kitty and Friends: Freeze Tag Party’ is a magical action game where fan-favorite Sanrio characters face off in whimsical games of tag. Choose to play as a Challenger (runner) or a Hunter (chaser) and experience the joy of tag like never before – powered by each character’s unique magical skills. Play solo or with friends in this all new Hello Kitty adventure. Unlock and customize your favorite characters!”
The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) announced the Esports Nations Cup (ENC), a tournament where top esports players will compete representing their countries.
The inaugural edition will be co-developed with publishers and video game companies including Electronic Arts, Krafton, Tencent and Ubisoft. Per EWCF, “Each one of them will help shape their game’s national ranking systems, qualification pathways, and event formats, ensuring the ENC resonates with their fans and meets the highest standards of competition.”
“Nation versus nation competition is the ultimate expression of sport,” said Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation. “The ENC makes this a reality for esports, giving every fan a flag to rally behind and every player the pride of representing their country. It’s a stage to create heroes, inspire the next generation, and, together with our partners and stakeholders, build the national ecosystems that will accelerate the growth of esports worldwide.”
IO Interactive launched “Hitman: World of Assassination” for iPhone and iPad. Per the indie developer and publisher, “Players can step into Agent 47’s polished shoes and take on missions across all 25 locations in ‘Hitman: World of Assassination’ from the palm of their hand.” In addition to iPhone and iPad, the game will also launch across the Apple silicon Mac lineup later this year, with the exact date to be confirmed shortly.
Amazon Games announced a closed alpha test for “March of Giants”, a new free-to-play 4v4 War MOBA for PC in early development.
Players in the United States, Canada, and Mexico can request access now on Steam to participate in the closed playtest running from Sept. 2-10.
“March of Giants” is the debut title from Amazon Games Montreal and led by Creative Director Xavier Marquis.
Per Amazon Games, “Set in a ravaged urban battlefield filled with marvels of science and magic, and grounded in the technology of the early 1900s, players take the role of towering Giants in the final battle of a century-long conflict. As a War MOBA, March of Giants deals directly with military themes, allowing players to command thousands of soldiers in battle within the strategic framework of competitive MOBA gameplay.”
Activision released a detailed community update this week outlining planned improvements to the franchise ahead of the release of “Call of Duty: Black Ops 7” this fall.
See the post below.
First off, thank you. Call of Duty has always been fueled by the community. Every match, every clip, every bit of feedback; you’ve shaped this franchise right alongside us.
We know there’s been a lot of conversation recently about the identity of Call of Duty. Some of you have said we’ve drifted from what made Call of Duty unique in the first place: immersive, intense, visceral and in many ways grounded. That feedback hits home, and we take it seriously. We hear you.
Throughout development, Treyarch and Raven’s north star has been to deliver a spiritual successor to Black Ops 2 while taking some big swings. You’ll see it across Black Ops 7’s Multiplayer, Zombies, Co-Op Campaign (including Endgame), and even Dead Ops Arcade 4.
Over the years, we’ve had a variety of games and experiences that fans have enjoyed from the Modern Warfare series to the Black Ops series and beyond. Today, we wanted to share with you some of the ways we’re approaching things with Black Ops 7.
What’s Changing and Why
Operators, Operator Skins, and Weapons from Black Ops 6 will no longer carry forward into Black Ops 7.
Black Ops 7 needs to feel authentic to Call of Duty and its setting. That is why Black Ops 6 Operator and Weapon content will not carry forward to Black Ops 7. Double XP tokens and GobbleGums will still carry forward, because we recognize your time and progression are important.
This change applies only to Black Ops 7. Call of Duty: Warzone is not affected, and all your Black Ops 6 content stays usable there.
Fighting Cheaters with RICOCHET
Cheating ruins matches, and we know how frustrating it is. In Black Ops 6, we’ve made solid progress: shutting down cheat makers faster, reducing response times, and cleaning up leaderboards.
For Black Ops 7, we’re going further. As we’ve previously detailed in our recent Progress Report, starting November 14, PC players will need to enable Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 on PC, giving us stronger tools to block cheats at the system level.
New detection and mitigation systems will also roll out, built to kick cheaters earlier and harder. Some will be tested during the Beta; the full suite will go live at launch. We’re committed to staying ahead and protecting fair play.
Your Feedback Matters
In Black Ops 7, bundles and items will be crafted to fit the Black Ops identity. We hear the feedback. We need to deliver a better balance toward the immersive, core Call of Duty experience.
A ton of feedback has already gone into Black Ops 7, and in the coming weeks you’ll hear much more directly from Treyarch.
Here’s just some of the info you can look forward to from the studio:
Multiplayer
Additional info on maps, weapons, and systemsRefined movement updatesWhat we are doing to ensure the core moment-to-moment gameplay experience takes a leap forward
Zombies
More info on launch content and the new Wonder VehicleDetails on the new Dark Aether version of the original crewA deeper dive into Gameplay Systems, including a new way to reward hardcore players
And More Information
Progression: for the first time, earn XP and weapon progression in every mode, across Campaign, Multiplayer, or ZombiesClassic Prestige returns with new Weapon PrestigeWeekly Challenges System starting in Season 1More ways to earn camos and in-game rewardsExpanded gameplay content
Call of Duty: NEXT & the Beta
Mark your calendars: Call of Duty: NEXT is September 30 with the full Multiplayer reveal and much more. The Early Access Beta starts October 2, and the Open Beta starts October 5, for all players on all platforms through October 8.
Thank you as always for the feedback, and keep it coming.
– The Call of Duty Team
From publisher EA and developer Full Circle, the game will go into Early Access Sept. 16 across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and for PC via Steam, Epic Games Store and the EA app.
“skate.” will be “free-to-download, cross-platform, and cross-progression,” per EA, “making it as accessible as possible for both longtime skate. franchise fans, and newcomers alike.”
“Set in the vibrant city of San Vansterdam, ‘skate.’ is a multiplayer skateboarding destination offering a massive open world where players discover unique skate spots, land insane tricks and connect – or compete – with friends online,” the game’s description reads. “With four unique neighborhoods – Hedgemont, Gullcrest, Market Mile and Brickswich – each offering its own distinct vibe and challenges, the city is a huge playground for skaters. From parks and plazas to rooftops and massive ramps, every corner is packed with skateable spots, including the House of Rolling Reverence, a former church transformed into a trick haven for skaters.”
“’skate.’ is not just a return, it’s a complete evolution of the franchise that’s built to last,” “skate.” executive producer Mike McCartney said. “Our goal with ‘skate.’ is to capture the freedom, creative expression and community of skateboarding, and share it with as many people as possible. From day one, our priority has been to honor the legacy of the franchise while pushing it into a bold new future – one built in partnership with our players.”
Watch the new “skate.” gameplay trailer below.
See more gaming news from this week in the roundup below.
Sega released a new trailer for “Shinobi: Art of Vengeance” ahead of the game’s Friday release.
*
Developed by Gambrinous, an indie studio based in Dublin, Ireland, “Eyes of Hellfire” has launched in early access and dropped a new trailer. The title is a co-operative gothic horror game inspired by Irish folklore. Up to five players must work together to explore, fight, and puzzle their way to free themselves from the iconic lodge. But it won’t be easy. Violent entities lurk within the hallways and the mysterious Host may sound welcoming but has his own agenda. Plus, each player in the group has their own curse that they must break to truly escape. Do you trust your friends not to betray you in order to get what they want?
*
Hoyoverse announced “Honkai: Nexus Anima,” a brand-new entry in the beloved Honkai franchise, and opening recruitment for its first closed beta — the Nexus Bond Test. Registration is now live on PC and iOS through Sept. 12.
Per Hoyoverse, “Honkai: Nexus Anima” blends creature collection with strategic adventure. In a world where unseen bonds between concepts like Light and Dark or Life and Death have ruptured, players will forge connections with companions known as Anima. Each carries unique powers that can be combined in battle, setting the stage for fresh strategies and new stories in the Honkai universe.
“Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater,” a remake of “Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater,” released this week. The Konami-developed title is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and Steam.
Based on Hideo Kojima’s 2004 hit PlayStation 2 title, “Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater,” “Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater” follows FOX operative codenamed Naked Snake, who is deployed deep behind enemy lines to prevent a nuclear conflict between global superpowers at the height of the Cold War. His mission quickly devolves into a struggle for survival in a harsh and unforgiving environment where Snake must face the ultimate test. The remake stars the original voice characters, a rich storyline and expansive features of combat survival evolved with unprecedented graphics and immersive sound.
*
“Kirby and the Forgotten Land” the “Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World” game edition launched for Nintendo Switch 2 this week.
The Nintendo Switch 2 version lets Kirby fans re-live the fun of the original game, while enjoying high quality graphics and faster frame rates. A brand new story and surprises await in Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World, including three new Mouthful Modes, added challenges like The Ultimate Cup Z EX and more:
VR developer Played With Fire and publisher Broken Mirror Games in partnership with Viacom International Inc. announced “Star Trek: Infection,” an upcoming full-body VR, narrative survival experience set in the iconic “Star Trek” universe.
Per the game’s description, “In ‘Star Trek: Infection,’ players step into the boots of a Vulcan Starfleet officer tasked with a covert mission aboard the U.S.S. Lumen where things quickly spiral into a psychological and physical nightmare.”
*
New game “Hello Kitty and Friends: Freeze Tag Party” will launch on Nintendo Switch Nov. 6. Published by Nighthawk Interactive, the Sanrio-characters-inspired game has been priced at $39.99.
Per developer by Imagineer, “‘Hello Kitty and Friends: Freeze Tag Party’ is a magical action game where fan-favorite Sanrio characters face off in whimsical games of tag. Choose to play as a Challenger (runner) or a Hunter (chaser) and experience the joy of tag like never before – powered by each character’s unique magical skills. Play solo or with friends in this all new Hello Kitty adventure. Unlock and customize your favorite characters!”
The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) announced the Esports Nations Cup (ENC), a tournament where top esports players will compete representing their countries.
The inaugural edition will be co-developed with publishers and video game companies including Electronic Arts, Krafton, Tencent and Ubisoft. Per EWCF, “Each one of them will help shape their game’s national ranking systems, qualification pathways, and event formats, ensuring the ENC resonates with their fans and meets the highest standards of competition.”
“Nation versus nation competition is the ultimate expression of sport,” said Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation. “The ENC makes this a reality for esports, giving every fan a flag to rally behind and every player the pride of representing their country. It’s a stage to create heroes, inspire the next generation, and, together with our partners and stakeholders, build the national ecosystems that will accelerate the growth of esports worldwide.”
IO Interactive launched “Hitman: World of Assassination” for iPhone and iPad. Per the indie developer and publisher, “Players can step into Agent 47’s polished shoes and take on missions across all 25 locations in ‘Hitman: World of Assassination’ from the palm of their hand.” In addition to iPhone and iPad, the game will also launch across the Apple silicon Mac lineup later this year, with the exact date to be confirmed shortly.
Amazon Games announced a closed alpha test for “March of Giants”, a new free-to-play 4v4 War MOBA for PC in early development.
Players in the United States, Canada, and Mexico can request access now on Steam to participate in the closed playtest running from Sept. 2-10.
“March of Giants” is the debut title from Amazon Games Montreal and led by Creative Director Xavier Marquis.
Per Amazon Games, “Set in a ravaged urban battlefield filled with marvels of science and magic, and grounded in the technology of the early 1900s, players take the role of towering Giants in the final battle of a century-long conflict. As a War MOBA, March of Giants deals directly with military themes, allowing players to command thousands of soldiers in battle within the strategic framework of competitive MOBA gameplay.”
Activision released a detailed community update this week outlining planned improvements to the franchise ahead of the release of “Call of Duty: Black Ops 7” this fall.
See the post below.
First off, thank you. Call of Duty has always been fueled by the community. Every match, every clip, every bit of feedback; you’ve shaped this franchise right alongside us.
We know there’s been a lot of conversation recently about the identity of Call of Duty. Some of you have said we’ve drifted from what made Call of Duty unique in the first place: immersive, intense, visceral and in many ways grounded. That feedback hits home, and we take it seriously. We hear you.
Throughout development, Treyarch and Raven’s north star has been to deliver a spiritual successor to Black Ops 2 while taking some big swings. You’ll see it across Black Ops 7’s Multiplayer, Zombies, Co-Op Campaign (including Endgame), and even Dead Ops Arcade 4.
Over the years, we’ve had a variety of games and experiences that fans have enjoyed from the Modern Warfare series to the Black Ops series and beyond. Today, we wanted to share with you some of the ways we’re approaching things with Black Ops 7.
What’s Changing and Why
Operators, Operator Skins, and Weapons from Black Ops 6 will no longer carry forward into Black Ops 7.
Black Ops 7 needs to feel authentic to Call of Duty and its setting. That is why Black Ops 6 Operator and Weapon content will not carry forward to Black Ops 7. Double XP tokens and GobbleGums will still carry forward, because we recognize your time and progression are important.
This change applies only to Black Ops 7. Call of Duty: Warzone is not affected, and all your Black Ops 6 content stays usable there.
Fighting Cheaters with RICOCHET
Cheating ruins matches, and we know how frustrating it is. In Black Ops 6, we’ve made solid progress: shutting down cheat makers faster, reducing response times, and cleaning up leaderboards.
For Black Ops 7, we’re going further. As we’ve previously detailed in our recent Progress Report, starting November 14, PC players will need to enable Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 on PC, giving us stronger tools to block cheats at the system level.
New detection and mitigation systems will also roll out, built to kick cheaters earlier and harder. Some will be tested during the Beta; the full suite will go live at launch. We’re committed to staying ahead and protecting fair play.
Your Feedback Matters
In Black Ops 7, bundles and items will be crafted to fit the Black Ops identity. We hear the feedback. We need to deliver a better balance toward the immersive, core Call of Duty experience.
A ton of feedback has already gone into Black Ops 7, and in the coming weeks you’ll hear much more directly from Treyarch.
Here’s just some of the info you can look forward to from the studio:
Multiplayer
Additional info on maps, weapons, and systemsRefined movement updatesWhat we are doing to ensure the core moment-to-moment gameplay experience takes a leap forward
Zombies
More info on launch content and the new Wonder VehicleDetails on the new Dark Aether version of the original crewA deeper dive into Gameplay Systems, including a new way to reward hardcore players
And More Information
Progression: for the first time, earn XP and weapon progression in every mode, across Campaign, Multiplayer, or ZombiesClassic Prestige returns with new Weapon PrestigeWeekly Challenges System starting in Season 1More ways to earn camos and in-game rewardsExpanded gameplay content
Call of Duty: NEXT & the Beta
Mark your calendars: Call of Duty: NEXT is September 30 with the full Multiplayer reveal and much more. The Early Access Beta starts October 2, and the Open Beta starts October 5, for all players on all platforms through October 8.
Thank you as always for the feedback, and keep it coming.
– The Call of Duty Team