Saturday, September 30, 2023

Best Xbox Series X/S Gaming Headsets 2023: Immerse Yourself in Your Xbox Games

Whether you have the Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S, you're going to want the best Xbox gaming headset, and the Xbox Wireless Headset is at the top of our list for a reason. However, if for whatever reason that headset doesn't strike your fancy, there are so many out on the market that no matter what your needs, we'll help you find the perfect gaming headset.

TL;DR – These are our picks for the Best Xbox Series X/S Headsets:

The best gaming headsets to pair with Microsoft’s consoles will deliver comfort, reliable connectivity, and solid sound, while spatial audio and support for surround sound can even give you a leg up on opponents. After extensive testing and research, we’ve found nine headsets that fit the bill – and click here to see them in the UK.

Looking for savings? Check out the best gaming headset deals right now.

The Best Xbox Headsets

1. Xbox Wireless Headset

The best Xbox headset you can buy

The Xbox Wireless Headset is the official platform gaming headset, and it partners perfectly with the Xbox Series X/S, even matching the console’s design. For under $100, you get simplicity in pairing thanks to its use of the Xbox Wireless standard. An easy connection over Bluetooth or a USB-C dongle is also available for a host of other devices, and as a wireless option, it offers a 15-hour battery life to last through your longest gaming marathons.

This headset doesn’t lack performance or features, offering 40mm drivers to pump out sound—with an especially booming bass—on par with other mid-range headsets and rocking support of Windows Sonic, Dolby Atmos, and DTS Headphone: X. The integration of the Xbox Accessories App allows you to adjust the EQ presets, making the audio customized to your ears. And though the Xbox Wireless Headset totes a mainly plastic build, it's durable with intuitive dials for volume and game/chat mix on the earcups, as well as easy-to-find buttons for device pairing and mic mute.

2. Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX

Best Wireless Xbox Headset

When you glimpse the feature-rich, quality-designed Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX, it’s easy to see why it’s our favorite wireless Xbox headset. 2.4GHz wireless means a pain-free connection to your Xbox Series X/S, and with the flip of a switch, it connects to other gaming consoles like the PS5 or Nintendo Switch. After pairing, you’ll enjoy lag-free, uninterrupted gameplay for up to 40 hours, thanks to impressive battery life, and you get Bluetooth support for your other devices.

Beyond being one the best wireless gaming headsets, the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX’s are comfortable, lightweight, and durable thanks to an improved design that will leave you surprised by how great they feel even after hours of use. As for its immersive sound experience, the 50mm Nanoclear speakers deliver, relaying even the most subtle nuances in your games, including picking up on the quiet footsteps of other players. The flip-down microphone also sounds clear for easy communication with teammates, though it picks up some background noise.

3. PDP Airlite Pro

Best Budget Xbox Headset

You don’t need to spend a fortune on a quality headset for your Xbox, and PDP’s Airlite Pro is proof. For under $80, you get an officially licensed Xbox headset that offers crisp highs and booming bass from 50mm drivers. Your experience is further amplified by its compatibility with Windows Sonic, delivering spatial audio for easily discernible sound cues, especially in shooters.

This budget gaming headset offers a durable yet comfortable build with ample adjustability and well-cushioned, breathable earcups to ensure a pleasant wearing experience even through marathon sessions. It’ll pair seamlessly with your console via a low-latency wireless dongle, though it lacks Bluetooth for an easy connection to other devices. As a wireless option, battery life is important, and the 16 hours it gets is nothing to rave about, but luckily charging is facilitated by a USB-C cable to make life easier.

4. HyperX Cloud Stinger Core

Best Budget Wireless Xbox Headset

Wireless Xbox Series X headsets usually come at a heavy premium, costing a couple hundred bucks just to have freedom from wires. Luckily, HyperX has made a name for itself over the last few years, creating some of the best budget headsets around. The HyperX Cloud Stinger Core takes the success that's made the Cloud Stinger one of the best gaming headsets on the market, strips back all the unnecessary features in order to deliver an affordable wireless gaming headset for the masses.

Sure, it doesn't support virtual surround sound or a Bluetooth connection, but does that matter when you can usually find this wireless gaming headset for under a hundred bucks? We've used dozens of HyperX gaming headsets over the years and can tell you the HyperX Cloud Stinger Core is perfect if you want a no-frills gaming headset that just works.

5. SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1

Best Ultra Cheap Xbox Headset

Though the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 1 may be the cheapest headset on our list, it’s packing everything you need for an immersive, enjoyable gaming experience. With the same drivers as the Arctis Nova 7, this headset’s sound quality is surprisingly great. There’s even support for Microsoft’s Spatial Audio to make the most of sound cues in games, while EQ settings can be adjusted using the SteelSeries GG app on PC.

SteelSeries didn’t forget comfort in the design of the Arctis Nova 1, so you’ll find the headset has a lightweight, height-adjustable build and plush, breathable earcups. Dropping wireless connectivity also helps keep the weight and price lower. That means the only way to connect to your devices is via the 3.5mm jack, making for a simple plug-and-play connection to your Xbox.

6. SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X

Most Comfortable Xbox Headset

With most headsets, you start to feel fatigued after a few hours of wear, but thanks to SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X’s design, you should last almost as long as its impressive 38-hour battery life. Similar to its predecessor, the Arctis 7X, this headset offers an adjustable ski-band headband and soft, breathable fabric memory foam earcups for cool, comfortable gameplay.

The Arctis Nova 7X packs more than just all-day comfort, as your favorite games sound great thanks to the Sonar software, which allows you to tune EQ settings and take advantage of spatial audio. Communication between teammates is also sharp and precise when using the retractable, noise-cancelling microphone. Also on offer is multi-device connectivity via a 2.4GHz dongle, while Bluetooth is available for pairing a plethora of other devices, and you can even use both simultaneously.

7. Razer Kaira Pro

Best Bluetooth Xbox Headset

Bluetooth connectivity makes it easy to pair a whole host of devices with a headset, and the Razer Kaira Pro offers solid Bluetooth 5.0 support. Therefore, in addition to its use of Xbox Wireless for a seamless connection to your Xbox Series X/S, you can easily connect to your smartphone, tablet, or gaming laptop over Bluetooth. And you can do both simultaneously, so while listening to the action of your favorite shooter through Xbox, you can also jam out to music over your phone connected with Bluetooth.

The Razer Kairo Pro comes loaded with other fun features, like RGB lighting on the earcup to amp up your playing experience, and the headset still manages to last up to 15 hours with RGB turned on. The earcups also offer controls for everything from adjusting the headset's sound settings to switching between devices, which may be overwhelming to figure out at first. You even get two mics, a removable wired mic and one built-in.

8. SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless

Best Noise-Cancelling Xbox Headset

Noise distractions are unavoidable, especially if you live with roommates or in a bustling metropolis, so grabbing a headset with powerful noise cancellation like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is vital. On offer is a hybrid noise-canceling system with four mics that adjust based on what you’re listening to and what it picks up in your environment. Improved earcups also help with sound isolation, and a simple button press activates a transparency mode to reveal what's happening around you.

With SteelSeries latest, we see the biggest design shift since the start of the Arctis lineup with now telescoping arms on its adjustable headband to better accommodates larger head sizes. The earcups are also slimmer and sleeker, giving off less of a gaming headset vibe and more of wireless headphones look. And one of our favorite features remains intact with a few upgrades, the hot-swappable rechargeable battery system.

9. Audeze Maxwell

Best Audiophile Xbox Headset

Audiophiles will rejoice when they hear the soundstage of the high-fidelity Audeze Maxwell. Everything from the in-game sound to music mix comes across clearly, while the sound cues remain easily discernable. Unlike the Audeze Penrose X that previously held this spot, the Xbox version of this headset offers Dolby Atmos support for immersive spatial audio delivered through the 90mm planar magnetic drivers with Fluxor magnet arrays and Fazor Waveguides.

As for connectivity, the Maxwell has you covered with a USB-C wired option or wireless dongle to enjoy high-res sound up to 24-bit/96kHz. While Bluetooth 5.3 lets you connect to multiple devices, even supporting the LDAC codec and the low latency LC3plus and LC3 codecs. Beyond audio greatness, this headset offers a suspension headband and contoured earpads for all-day comfort, and we mean all day for several days, with its wild 80-hour battery life.

10. Bang-Olufsen Beoplay Portal

Best Premium Xbox Headset

B&O’s Beoplay Portal offers a high-end gaming headset that looks good, sounds good, and feels good. Once you move past the cost, you can enjoy the comfortable, lightweight design that steps away from the look of traditional gaming headsets. With superb audio quality, they’re perfect for everything from listening to your favorite album or basking in the roar of Dolby Atmos enabled game audio pipped from the Xbox Series X/S.

In a world full of distractions, it’s sometimes hard to stay focused on your game, so active noise cancellation should come in handy. Another convenient feature is Xbox Wireless for seamless pairing with your console, while Bluetooth or a 3.5mm audio jack are available for all your other devices. Unfortunately, you can’t use Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth simultaneously like other headsets on this list, and you’ll also find the 12-hour battery could be better.

Where to Get the Best Xbox Headset in the UK

Best Xbox Headsets FAQs

How Do You Choose an Xbox Headset?

There are a vast number of gaming headsets available these days, and it’s important you pay attention to specific specs to ensure you’re getting the best one for you and your Xbox Series X/S.

First, connectivity is essential. When purchasing a headset, you want to consider ones that have a variety of connections, so you can make use of it on multiple devices. One standard is Xbox Wireless, which acts similar to Bluetooth, but is exclusive to Xbox. It makes pairing compatible headsets to your Xbox console quick and simple.

Another connectivity option available is a USB wireless transmitter, and with this, you can just plug in the dongle and get gaming. You can also plug into your console or controller with wired options like a traditional 3.5mm audio jack or USB. Some of our picks even offer Bluetooth, and though the Xbox Series X/S doesn’t support it, it’s still convenient for use with other devices like your smartphone or laptop.

Of course, you want a great-sounding gaming headset. There are several factors to consider for the best audio performance. Driver size is important, and 40 mm is often the standard, but bigger usually means better. The drivers are internal mechanisms that create the sound waves you hear. A larger driver allows for more air to pass through, making not only louder sounds but also more nuanced, wider frequencies.

The range of frequencies heard on a headset is their frequency response. As humans, we can hear a range from 20-20KHz, which will cover low deep sounds to high pitched screeches. Most headsets available offer close to this frequency response or even better.

Since the Xbox Series X/S offers support for some of the best spatial audio and surround sound technologies, you may want to consider a compatible headset. This type of audio places you right in the center of your game and can pick up sound directionally. With Dolby Atmos, you can even distinguish the location of a helicopter overhead or enemies lurking in the bushes. It’s truly a next-level immersive audio experience. Looking for headsets that offer Dolby Atmos, Windows Sonic, and DTS Headphone:X can amp up your gameplay and help you efficiently annihilate your competition.

Are Xbox One Headsets Compatible With Xbox Series X|S?

If you already have an Xbox One gaming headset, it should be compatible with the Xbox Series X|S already. That being said, there are some outliers that don't work across both generations of consoles. If you want to know if your current gaming headset is compatible with the newer version of the console, you can check out this Xbox support page for the issue.

Which Xbox Headset Has the Best Sound Quality?

All of the headsets featured in our list have decent sound quality, but if you're looking for the absolute best, you'll want to go with high-end gaming headset. These headsets are more expensive than some of the budget options available, but they all offer excellent quality sound.

Which Headset Is Best for Xbox Series X Games?

Most compatible headsets will do just fine for most Xbox Series X/S games, but if you want something that provides richer sounds for AAA games, you'll want to look at the more premium options on this list. These are headsets that offer things like Dolby Atmos or Windows Sonic.

Michelle Rae Uy is a freelance tech and travel writer, part-time production editor, and a full-time traveler from Los Angeles, California. She currently splits her time between Los Angeles, London and the rest of the world. Follow her on Instagram @straywithRae.

Danielle Abraham is a freelance writer and unpaid music historian.

Image Credit: Annalee Tsujino is a multi disciplinary designer and illustrator. Check them out on Instagram @antsu_illustrations.

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Alan Wake 2: Release Date, Gameplay Updates, Story Details, and Latest News

13 (real-world and in-game) years have passed since we left Alan Wake in the Dark Place. The 2010 action game/psychological thriller gained a cult following thanks to a compelling narrative that blends Stephen King-esque psychological mystery with the quirky charm and evocative surrealism of Twin Peaks. In the decade-plus since, Remedy has grown to become one of the industry’s premier development studios, and now it’s writing an all-new chapter with its first survival-horror game, Alan Wake 2.

Ahead of the sequel’s upcoming release, we’ve compiled this comprehensive overview of everything we know about Alan Wake 2, including a release date, platforms, price, gameplay updates, story details, and more.

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Alan Wake 2 Release Date, Platforms, Price

Alan Wake 2 will be released on October 27 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (via Epic Games Store). The survival-horror game will cost $60 USD on console and $50 on PC.

Alan Wake 2 will only be released digitally.

Alan Wake 2 Trailer

The latest Alan Wake 2 trailer, titled The Dark Place, was released at gamescom in August. Check out the hybrid live action-gameplay video below:

Alan Wake 2 Story and Plot

Alan Wake 2 picks up 13 years after the original. Alan, having saved his wife at the end of the first game, remains trapped in the Dark Place, a nightmare world with the power to turn fiction into reality. For over a dozen years, the writer has tried to write himself out of the Dark Place without success.

Complementing Alan’s horror story is the plight of the game’s second playable protagonist, accomplished FBI agent Saga Anderson. As Alan tries to write himself free, Saga is in base reality investigating a series of ritualistic murders in Bright Falls, where the first Alan Wake was set. The protagonists’ stories begin to merge when Saga finds pages of a horror story that starts to come true around her.

Alan Wake 2 is set across three Pacific Northwest locations: Bright Falls, the nearby fishing/logging city of Watery, and the fenced-off Cauldron Lake. “Saga obviously exists in our world, so it's a more grounded reality, but it's still Remedy's take on the Pacific Northwest, which means it's a little quirky, a little interesting, a little weird,” principal narrative designer Molly Maloney told IGN.

Alan Wake 2, unlike its T-rated predecessor, is rated M. Creative director Sam Lake called the rating “liberating,” to not make “compromises or censor yourself with the content.” He added: “For anything to do with Alan Wake the story is very central — this horror story. Let’s do Remedy’s take on a survival horror game and focus on story… the horror story is this psychological, layered, deep mystery to dive into. And yes, it’s going to be scary.”

As for the horror and detective stories that influenced Alan Wake 2, Remedy has referenced season one of True Detective, Silence of the Lambs, Twin Peaks, Fargo, Se7en, Taxi Driver, Inception, Hereditary, Midsommar, and Memento.

Remedy will once again incorporate live-action scenes into the story. Said Lake: “I really, really like using live action. And this time around, we were looking for stylization and ways to integrate it seamlessly into the experience. The Dark Place is this shifting dream reality, kind of a layered place where Alan Wake is churning through these layers and it just felt very suited for switching the medium to keep you off balance. And he's confused. You are confused.”

The sequel exists in the growing Remedy Connected Universe, a narrative world in which the developer’s Alan Wake and Control franchises coexist. Remedy says the connection between Alan Wake 2 and Control, for example, extends beyond an Easter egg: “It is a crossover experience in [the] Remedy Connected Universe,” said Lake.” The Federal Bureau of Control does play a key role. Their presence in the area… we have key characters related to that and tying into this.”

Alan Wake 2 Gameplay

Alan Wake 2 looks to complement its narrative with a mix of combat, puzzles, detective work, and interactive story moments. Notably, the sequel will have fewer combat encounters than the original. Sam Lake and the team said they designed Alan Wake 2 with a main criticism of the first game in mind: the gameplay was too ‘samey.’

"So, we were looking for solutions and then we just realized that in survival horror, the pacing is slower,” said Lake. “[Alan Wake 2] leans much more on building up to an encounter and then having more strategic resource management and all. So we chose to give more variety in combat but also have less combat, instead we'll have more moments to do things with the story.”

Alan will still face enemies, and when he does players will have to use the same flashlight technique from the first game to burn away the darkness before inflicting damage. “But we're a bit more focused on the idea of paranoia and not being able to trust what's real,” said Lake. “So we have enemies that are kind of shadowy. You're not sure, some of them will fade away and then not attack you, but some of them will attack you.”

In his Alan Wake 2 hands-on preview, IGN’s Matt Purslow likened the combat to Resident Evil: “Alan Wake 2’s combat encounters are framed from an almost identical camera angle and have the remakes’ same snappy, stressful gunplay. There’s a grisly wound system, too, that opens up wet cavities with each gunshot.

“But that familiar foundation is blended with more original Remedy ideas. The dodge returns from the first game, so ducking beneath hurled hatchets and melee swipes is still part of the rhythm.”

As for Saga, in addition to combat, players can expect “gameplay of exploring the world, finding clues, talking to people, having this kind of case board where you're piecing everything together.”

That case board exists within Saga’s Mind Place, accessible to players at the touch of a button. Here, Saga can review manuscript pages, character profiles, and the case board — a collection of string-connected pages and photos tacked to a wall where you can arrange clues and evidence in service to pushing Saga’s investigation forward.

Alan’s analog to Saga’s Mind Place and case board are The Writer’s Room and plot board. The plot board is a space for Alan to write new stories in an effort to reshape the reality of the Dark Place, open new pathways, and ultimately escape.

As for switching between the two characters, Remedy largely leaves that up to the player’s discretion: After introductory missions, you’ll be able to switch freely between Saga and Alan, except for when you’re in a place where switching could lead you to "miss a critical piece of information.”

Players can, for example, alternate between characters each chapter or see one character’s story all the way through before progressing the other.

As for the technical experience, Remedy developed Alan Wake 2 with 30 fps in mind. However, the developer recently announced a performance mode for PS5 and Xbox Series X, though specifics have not yet been revealed.

Visually, IGN’s Ryan McCaffrey, who’s played two missions of Alan Wake 2, said it’s “one of the most next-gen-looking games I've seen yet. Remedy's in-house Northlight tech shines here, with lighting, texture detail, and especially character faces combining to craft a strikingly beautiful game.”

How to Play the First Alan Wake (and other Remedy Connected Universe Games)

Alan Wake 2 is the third game in the Remedy Connected Universe, a shared world in which the developer’s Alan Wake and Control franchises exist. (Quantum Break and Max Payne are “not really part” of the RCU, according to Remedy’s Same Lake, given the studio doesn’t own those IPs.)

Catching up on Alan Wake and Control (including its AWE DLC) ahead of Alan Wake 2 is likely to enhance the experience, though Remedy says the sequel is “set up as a stand-alone experience” and “newcomers can enjoy the thrill-ride with no past knowledge of the previous game.”

For those who want the complete RCU experience (so far), here’s where you can play the previously released games:

Alan Wake

The original Alan Wake is available on Xbox 360 and PC. However, we recommend playing 2021’s Alan Wake Remastered, available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC. The remaster contains an updated version of the original game as well as The Signal and The Writer DLCs.

A standalone expansion called Alan Wake: American Nightmare is not included in the remaster. The expansion is still tied to Xbox 360 and PC.

Control

Control was first released on PS4, Xbox One, and PC. However, we recommend playing Control Ultimate Edition, available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, Switch (via cloud streaming), and PC. The Ultimate Edition includes the original game (with graphical/performance updates on newer consoles) and its two expansions: The Foundation and AWE.

Will Alan Wake 2 Have Expansions?

Yes, Remedy has already announced Alan Wake 2 will receive both free post-launch content and two paid expansions: Night Springs and Lake House. Both expansions are included with the Digital Deluxe version of the game (more info below).

Alan Wake 2 Editions, Preorder Bonus

Preorder Bonus

Preordering either version of Alan Wake 2 will net you the following in-game goodies:

  • Ornate Revolver Skin for Alan
  • Survival Resources Pack for Saga
  • Oh Deer Diner Sweater for Saga

Standard Edition – $50 USD (PC), $60 USD (Consoles)

  • Digital copy of Alan Wake 2

Digital Deluxe Edition – $70 USD (PC), $80 USD (Consoles)

  • Digital copy of Alan Wake 2
  • Expansion pass (includes Night Springs and Lake House expansions)
  • Nordic shotgun skin for Saga
  • Parliament shotgun skin for Alan
  • Crimson windbreaker for Saga
  • Celebrity suit for Alan
  • Lantern charm for Saga

Jordan covers games, shows, and movies as a freelance writer for IGN.

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El Paso, Elsewhere Wears Its Bloodstained Heartbreak on Its Sleeve

There’s a moment at the very beginning of El Paso, Elsewhere, where the protagonist James Savage leans over the hood of a car pulled over in the middle of nowhere and makes a plea directly to the player. “I need you to believe…that I’m going to get back into this car, on the count of three, and stop my ex before she destroys us all. I need to know that you believe, so I can too.” He slowly counts to three, and in a blink, he’s in the El Paso hotel where she lies in wait. “Well,” he says, as if pleasantly surprised. “Here’s to believing.”

The parallels between this specific moment of James’ opening monologue and the story told to me by Strange Scaffold studio head Xalavier Nelson Jr. of the game’s development aren’t lost on me. He’s worked on over 80 projects in the past eight years, he tells me over a video call, across video games, comics, and tabletop, AAA and indie, licensed and original IP. His studio, Strange Scaffold, was founded out of a “deep passion for advocating to make games better, faster, cheaper, and healthier because our players deserve it.” As he speaks to me, Nelson walks Aristotelian laps around the brightly-painted living room, kitchen, and hallway of his house. Occasionally, he sprints to the PC to check a fact, then resumes his peripateticism.

I’ve interviewed Nelson before about his move from writing to every other aspect of game development, and his game-making philosophy centered around sustainability, broad collaboration, and deep introspection. When we last spoke on these subjects, it was about An Airport for Aliens Currently Run by Dogs – an extremely different kind of video game. And yet, not at all different. Both games center protagonists who are deeply in love, deeply hurt by it, and who spend a lot of time thinking about those feelings. Both games take place in colorful, almost surreal environments – albeit very different flavors of surreal. And both games are made with a distinct earnestness and sincerity that’s almost overpowering.

Two very different games, yes, but with the same heart. It’s intentional, Nelson says, and reflective across all of Strange Scaffold’s manifold projects. Wildly different swings all, but with the intent of cultivating a community that sticks around for their shared core of sincerity and introspection. That’s the Strange Scaffold portfolio strategy, but it almost destroyed them, for a lack of believing.

“So September 26th is when the game is supposed to come out, and we were going to run out of practically all of the money on October 1st,” he says. “I [started] to interact with the corporate and investment sectors of the games industry and they tell me, ‘You can't make games like this.’ And I'm like, ‘Well, we're doing it now. We do it over and over again. We do it profitably. We do it on time and on budget.’ And they say, ‘Yeah, that's amazing. That's astounding. You can't do it like that though.’ And that ends up becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy in that if we don't receive support, we don't get to keep making games this way.”

We're no longer on the red line but we're still on the knife's edge hoping that as we show up for our players, they show up for us too.

Nelson laments what he sees as a trend from industry publishers and investors to demand that studios like his make their games less risky by effectively risking the physical and mental health of their staff. “The assumption around the process of building games is that it must be harmful on some layer for it to have the chance of being successful,” he says. “Even on this game, again and again, we…were being told [by publishers and investors] that our emphasis on player and team health was a measure of our lack of ambition.”

“People kept asking me in rooms, ‘What game do you really want to make though? What do you really want to make? What's your big swing?’ And I think it's a big swing to give people amazing games over and over and over again that each provides something different for their lives. So we stuck by that. Yeah, it is what nearly drove us out of business. We managed to find some like-minded people that we're no longer on the red line but I'll be honest, we're still on the knife's edge hoping that as we show up for our players, they show up for us too.”

Like James Savage, like Tinkerbell in the Peter Pan stage play, studios like Nelson’s rely on audience belief. Even El Paso’s game over screen reiterates the message: You Keep Going. My own adventure with the game took a bit of a leap of faith, too. I loved the sincerity, silliness, and sadness of An Airport for Aliens Run by Dogs, but I’ve never played the shooters El Paso is inspired by (Max Payne, Hotline Miami) nor am I enthralled by the idea of shooting zombies. But I did exactly what Nelson hoped I’d do: I took a chance on El Paso, Elsewhere. And was rewarded many times over.

El Paso, Elsewhere is beautiful. It’s beautiful to look at, in its dramatic color contrasts of light and shadow and mixture of complex lighting effects against haunting PS1-style models and structures. Retro and modern all at once. It theoretically takes place in a hotel, if the hotel is infinitely deep and leads to hell, and the conceit works to keep the environments not just varied but perpetually and appropriately unsettling.

Writing is where El Paso especially shines, specifically Savage’s steady narration and interplay with the player. His speech is heavy with the poetry we imagine we think of when we stare out the window, nearly hungover, at 3AM in the wake of some grief. But El Paso is also full of hope and energy, both in its overall story (which I shall not spoil, but it’s good!) and in the relentless total radness of slow-mo dodging a zombie and filling its head with bullets midair while a punchy hip-hop soundtrack thrums in your ears. Yeah, James Savage is righteously sad and on a lot of drugs, but he still looks really freaking cool shooting biblically accurate angels out of the sky. Shooting feels cool too, fast and snappy, and action movie-esque in its momentum. Put it all together? Consider me a believer.

Though he’s the one speaking to me, Nelson’s whole philosophy is against the idea that one person could be the face of the entire project, or even that a faceless Strange Scaffold “brand” could be responsible for it. He wants players to feel the creativity and identity of each individual developer that touched the project, from the music of RJ Lake to Romero Bonickhausen’s cutscenes to Gary Kings’ work on the game’s trailers. And every other name in the credits, too.

“I honestly feel like we have done players a disservice, so earnestly making them focus on studio brands or legacy characters rather than saying, ‘This person told the story that made you cry. This person made the characters who you cosplayed as. This person made the gameplay that when you play every other game in this genre, this person and this group of people designed the mechanics that you miss in your hands years later.’”

Nelson gives a personal example: Binary Domain. It’s a game made by Yakuza and Like a Dragon developers Ryu Ga Gotoku studio, and it’s wildly different from the franchise the developers have become known for. But Nelson loves it, because it has the same heart as the Like a Dragon series that he already loves.

“It's a little bit like comic books,” he continues. “You probably aren't a fan of Batman, you're a fan of how Frank Miller wrote them or Tom King. You're a fan of how a specific person's lens of interpretation changes a work. I think if you apply that lens to video games, we've seen a lot of things where people are not allowed to just think about making video games and doing their jobs and delivering the experiences that players love. Layoffs, the recent Unity news, there's a variety of distractions...I have realized the reason that buying games for me is such a roll of the dice is because I'm just looking over and over to see when and where a team is allowed to have that earnestness and that creative spirit and that individual expression is allowed to really speak. Because I believe it is in AAA games, I believe it is in indie games, it's in AA games and it is one of the first things to be strangled by production decisions that do not acknowledge its existence at all.”

You probably aren't a fan of Batman, you're a fan of how Frank Miller wrote them or Tom King. You're a fan of how a specific person's lens of interpretation changes a work.

El Paso, Elsewhere was not free of those “distractions” – Nelson is candid about that too. Apart from the funding crisis, he says the game was essentially made entirely in 10 months (though in planning for two years). 50 chapters, a full rap album, over 40 minutes of 3D animated cinematic cutscenes – it was a lot in a short time period, even with Strange Scaffold’s efforts to keep its people from overworking. “Every single time someone does something cool, it creates work for other people if only because they are inspired to do something amazing,” Nelson says. Exhilarating, yes, but exhausting.

“As a leader, I've done what I can to mitigate some of the negative effects of that, but the process of pulling this game together and making the best version of it according to our vision and our time and our scope and our budget has been, I think, pretty intensive for the team,” he says. “And while we've created periods of rest, we've spoken, we communicate really intelligently, there's one thing I look at with some pain and regret it is that we made a game so big and so cool that the end of its development cycle did not represent the philosophical desires that we have for the development cycle as a whole.”

But Nelson isn’t giving up on his vision. He and Strange Scaffold plan to continue looking for ways to keep the studio’s structure but nix the urgency, speed, and pain that so often comes with deadlines. And perhaps with the critical success of El Paso, Elsewhere, he’ll find more believers willing to support future earnest endeavors, whatever the genre or theme. Like Savage and the player, mutually staring down death and heartbreak and game over screens: You keep going.

Rebekah Valentine is a senior reporter for IGN. Got a story tip? Send it to rvalentine@ign.com.

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This Is Why I Shouldn’t Have the Power to Design My Own Pokémon Shirt

You’re reading the fourth chapter of my eight-day travelog recounting my unbelievable trip to Japan to cover the 2023 Pokémon World Championships.

If you already haven't, be sure to check out the other chapters:

Day 4 - Psyduck Fan, Unleashed

7:45 am - I wake up actually feeling rested for the first time since we got to Japan. The first stop of the day is to Pokémon Center Shibuya, and then we’ll be set free to explore the area, shop, and eat, so I figure I should have a light breakfast. I go to the buffet and grab a Malasada donut, Spanish omelet, croissant, orange slices, berry pastry, chocolate pastry, coffee, orange juice, thin pancakes with berries, and a piping-hot slice of lasagna.

8:25 am - We pile onto the bus and start our journey to Shibuya. It strikes me how this is our fourth day here and the World Championships haven’t even started, yet we’ve seen and done an astounding amount of stuff. We’re getting the full experience, indeed. This feeling continued to strike me for the next two hours.

10:25 am - Two hours later, we arrive at Pokémon Center Shibuya, on the sixth floor of the Shibuya Parco shopping mall in Tokyo. This is the third Pokémon Center of the trip yet there are still new things to be found. The first thing that catches the group’s eye is the newly released Wigglet plushie. As you can see, it looks totally fine and there’s nothing more to say about it.

10:35 am - I see a line forming behind a set of machines and discover they let you design your own Pokémon shirt!

A few minutes of waiting and I’m on a console scrolling through all of the options. There are a decent amount of layouts and styles, and I’m drawn to the one where you can display your team of six Pokémon.

I decide to imitate those Pokémon Trainers from the games that have a team full of the same unevolved Pokémon and then the last one is the evolved form, but with my favorite Pokémon, Psyduck!

After submitting my design, an attendant tells me it takes an hour for the shirt to be printed and prepped for pickup.

10:55 am - On the way to the checkout line, I find a Pikachu hand fan and decide to make what would be the most important, life-saving purchase of my entire trip, because it somehow feels even hotter today than it had before.

11:23 am - With my purchases in-hand, I pop over to the Nintendo Store across from the Pokémon Center and say hello to the Hero of Time. I’m tempted to buy something here, too, but manage to exercise some self-control. First time for everything!

11:41 am - We decide to grab some food and wind up in the mall’s lowest level, a basement with mirrored ceilings full of different restaurants. I order mackerel with herbed breadcrumbs that comes with a salad, mashed potatoes, with a side of tangy-spicy sauce. It’s the bomb.

11:55 am - The bus is going to leave soon, so we circle back to the Pokémon Center to pick up our shirts now that they’ve had time to be printed out. It’s magnificent.

3:00 pm - After a bit of downtime, we meet up again to attend the Pokémon x NHK Symphony Special Orchestra. We’ve been running around so much these past few days, it’s a nice change of pace to sit back, relax, and enjoy some fine Pokémon music.

Part One of the program treats us to classic music from the various places the Pokémon World Championships have been held over the years, finally ending here in Japan. It’s a fun trip down memory lane that shows the legacy of the competition, the cool designs from past Worlds, and the many players who have made a name for themselves over the years. It’s a fitting tribute that captures the excitement and camaraderie that every Worlds creates. It also reminds me that my first Worlds was 2016 in San Francisco.

The second part of the program treats us to the opening theme of every main series Pokémon video game, while the third is a selection of tunes from the Paldea Region. The show culminates with “Victory Lies Before You!” from Pokémon Black and White, an energetic piece that ends things with a bang. It’s a fantastic choice go to go out on, as it leaves me feeling pumped up for Worlds to kick off tomorrow. Besides, everyone knows Black and White music just hits different.

5:20 pm - The excellent orchestral performance gives me just enough energy to make it back to the hotel. The tiredness of the past few days finally catches up with me and I pass out on the bed without eating dinner or taking my clothes off.

Don't forget to come back tomorrow for Day 5, when the Pokémon World Championships finally begin!

Until then, check out our other coverage on Pokémon Worlds:

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Friday, September 29, 2023

IGN UK Podcast 716: Hate the Endless Search Theme? Let's Go Our Separate Ways

Dale and Jesse are here, so you know what means; more Resident Evil chat! The boys and Matt P have played the Ada Wong DLC, Separate Ways for Resident Evil 4 and have tons of thoughts. We also chat about Mortal Kombat 1's story mode, Netflix's latest Korean game show, The Devil's Plan and we dive into all your feedback about the theme for The Endless Search in what we've dubbed THE GREAT DEBATE.

Have any thoughts about The Endless Search theme dude, got any good demo disc stories? Get in touch at ign_ukfeedback@ign.com

IGN UK Podcast 716: Hate the Endless Search Theme? Let's Go Our Separate Ways

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Best Xbox Deals Today (September 2023): Save on SSDs, Controllers, Games & More

When it comes to picking up new games, hardware, or accessories for your Xbox, it feels good when you can find those items at a discounted price. Here, we'll keep you updated on all of the latest deals for Xbox, including during events like the upcoming Prime Big Deal Days on October 10 or Black Friday. Below, you can find a wide range of items on sale. Not only does this include games, but also items like controllers and headsets.

TL;DR - Our Favorite Xbox Deals

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How to Avoid Xbox Game Pass Price Hike ($44.99 for 3-Months of Ultimate)

By securing 3-months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for $44.99, you can actually avoid the Game Pass price hike. We recommend securing your current subscription for as long as possible. You can stack up to a maximum of 36 months of Game Pass, meaning you have the option to accumulate 3-month subscriptions up to 12 times.

Admittedly, this approach might put a strain on your wallet, totaling $539.88 if you purchase the 3-month package from the link above. However, when you compare it to the new cost of Game Pass Ultimate for 36 months at $16.99 per month, amounting to $611.64, you'll realize you're saving $71.76 on your subscription for the next three years. Otherwise, secure your membership for at least a year to lock in at least some savings overall.

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Select Xbox Controllers Are Down to $49.99 (Save Up to 17%)

In need of another Xbox controller? Well, you're in luck, as there are a few great picks on sale right now. That way you can add player two (or three, or four) whenever the need arises. Plus, the colors are pretty great. In my opinion, you can never have too many controllers. You never know when someone will pop on by and want to play Overcooked or It Takes Two, or any local multiplayer game.

More Xbox Controller Deals:

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Xbox: Budget to Best

Buying new items for your Xbox doesn't have to make a massive dent in your wallet, either. Here, we'll feature a variety of excellent games, accessories, and hardware that are available at more affordable prices regularly or are the just option available when gaming on Xbox.

More Xbox Budget to Best Picks

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Dying Light 2: Stay Human is Down to $25

There are several games on sale right now for Xbox, but one of our favorite deals at the moment is on Dying Light 2: Stay Human, which is available for 57% off at $25. To see more games that are on sale right now for Xbox, check out the links below.

More Xbox Video Game Deals:

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Get 8% Off the Official Xbox Wireless Headset

Does your family complain when you stay up playing loud shooters late into the night? They'll stop complaining if you pick up an Xbox headset that lets no one but you hear the delightful explosions you cause on the screen. Right now, you can get 8% off the Official Xbox Wireless Headset, bringing the price down slightly to $92.45 from $99.99.

More Xbox Headset Deals:

When Should I Buy an Xbox?

In general, it is advisable to keep an eye out for sales and restocks throughout the year, as availability has improved since the initial launch of the console. Unlike the Nintendo Switch, there is no specific recommendation to wait for a sale regardless of the time of year. Instead, it's a good idea to monitor various retailers and online platforms for restock announcements and promotional offers.

However, certain events like Black Friday or other holiday seasons may bring about unique bundles, discounts, or promotional deals specifically for the Xbox Series X. These bundles may include additional games, accessories, or exclusive limited editions. While quantities for such promotions might be limited, they can provide an opportunity to get more value for your purchase.

Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S?

Choosing between the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S ultimately depends on your gaming preferences, budget, and specific requirements. Let's compare the two consoles to help you make an informed decision:

1. Performance: The Xbox Series X is the more powerful option, offering native 4K gaming, higher graphical fidelity, and faster loading times. It has more advanced hardware, including a larger storage capacity. On the other hand, the Xbox Series S targets a lower price point and offers a less powerful performance, targeting 1440p resolution gaming and upscaling to 4K.

2. Price: The Xbox Series S is more affordable compared to the Xbox Series X. If budget is a significant factor for you, the Xbox Series S provides a cost-effective option while still delivering a next-generation gaming experience. For example, the Series S can play Starfield at 1440p 30fps (vs 4K 30fps on Series X).

3. Storage: The Xbox Series X comes with a larger internal storage capacity, allowing you to store more games directly on the console. The Xbox Series S, however, has a smaller storage capacity, which means you may need to manage your game library more actively or rely on external storage solutions.

4. Disc Drive: The Xbox Series X includes a disc drive, enabling you to play physical game discs and enjoy a wider range of media options, including Blu-ray and DVD playback. The Xbox Series S, in contrast, is a digital-only console, meaning you can only play games downloaded from the digital store.

5. Graphics and Performance: While both consoles support ray tracing, the Xbox Series X provides a more immersive and visually impressive experience due to its superior hardware capabilities. If you prioritize cutting-edge graphics and want the best performance available, the Xbox Series X is the preferable choice.

Consider your gaming preferences, budget, and whether you prioritize top-of-the-line performance or cost-effectiveness. If you have a 4K TV, want the most powerful console, and are willing to invest more, the Xbox Series X is the recommended option. If you have a lower budget, a 1080p or 1440p TV, and don't mind sacrificing some performance, the Xbox Series S offers excellent value for money.

With how expensive gaming is getting in 2023, we're trying to save you as much money as possible on the games and other tech you actually want to buy. We've got great deal roundups available for all major platforms such as Switch and Xbox, and keep these updated daily with brand new offers. If you're trying to keep costs down while maintaining your favorite hobby, stay tuned for more incredible discounts.

Robert Anderson is a deals expert and Commerce Editor for IGN. You can follow him @robertliam21 on Twitter.

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PSA: The Spider-Man 2 Spoilers Have Arrived

With Insomniac’s hotly anticipated PlayStation 5 exclusive Spider-Man 2 just weeks away, it may be time to batten down the hatches as spoilers are beginning to hit the internet.

The first batch of potential spoiler territory comes from TrueTrophies, which lists all the trophies available in the game. IGN will not post Spider-Man 2 spoilers here, but be warned: the trophies suggest light spoilers for characters and potential plot points and gameplay activities.

Meanwhile, Twitter users are posting the Spider-Man 2 start screen. Start screens aren’t viewed as a spoiler for most, although some enjoy the surprise that comes with turning a video game on for the first time. What's interesting here is that the landing screen appears to shift depending on where you are in the main story.

Last week, IGN reported on how Spider-Man 2 is the first Insomniac Spider-Man game to feature fall damage, although you can toggle it on or off. In a statement to IGN, Senior Programming Director Doug Sheahan confirmed fall damage is not enabled by default. "Something we're seeing more and more of is that players like to be able to customize their experience," Sheahan explained. "For those players, we added the ability to enable fall damage (fall damage defaults to Off) and even let people tweak how swinging feels with our Swing Steering Assist setting. We hope players who enjoy a deep dive into the details have fun experimenting."

Spider-Man 2 is out on October 20. For more, check out our hands-on preview and an interview where Insomniac answers all our tech-centric questions about Spider-Man 2.

Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.

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Cyberpunk 2077 Lead Reveals How to Become a 'Warlock Netrunner' in Phantom Liberty

Cyberpunk 2077 director Gabe Amatangelo has revealed how to become what he believes is one of the most fun archetypes in Phantom Liberty: "a warlock netrunner."

Speaking to PC Gamer, Amatangelo said the combination of the monowire cyberware and quickhacking multiple enemies can essentially inflict a never-ending cycle of chaos if done well enough.

"There [are so many fun builds], but I'd say the netrunner, spreading hacks with the monowire from the Relic Tree," Amatangelo said when asked which build he recommended players try. "That one's so much fun, especially if you are able to work in the combos and the rhythm for refunding your memory and your cooldowns. When you do it in concert with the monowire, you get the bonuses from the spreads."

Players can quickhack enemies in Cyberpunk 2077 to cause all sorts of problems, from short circuits to malware infections and more, but doing so costs the player RAM or memory that needs to replenish. Amatangelo's warlock netrunner essentially overcomes that problem, however, by using a combination of skills to replenish that memory very quickly.

"Basically, the bonuses you get from combos happening, you set a debuff hack on one person, you spread it to a few, and then you do a follow-up hack on all of them — you get the bonuses and memory refunds from all of them," he continued.

"You can really get into this rhythm of sustaining your hacks at a cool pace. You could do it with a stealth hacking build, which is fun in its own right of course, but this is more of a bob-and-weave kind of suppress everyone [build]. It's like a warlock, if you will, a warlock netrunner."

The perks required include two in Phantom Liberty's new Relic Tree (Jailbreak and Data Tunneling), alongside everything in the leftmost branch of the Intelligence Tree. A full breakdown of the best skills and builds can be found in IGN's Cyberpunk 2077 Guide.

Phantom Liberty arrived September 26, with the game-changing Update 2.0 laying its foundation a few days earlier. It completely revamped Cyberpunk 2077 with features such as a new perk system and improved AI and also brought closure to an Elon Musk fan theory, a reference to the late racing legend Ken Block, and bizarre additions to the game's biggest mystery.

All this caused a spike in Cyberpunk 2077's popularity on Steam, a number that only grew as players got their hands on Phantom Liberty.

In our 9/10 review of the expansion, IGN said: "Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty completes an immense turnaround for CD Projekt Red's future RPG kickstarted with the anime spin-off, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners and its latest 2.0 Update."

Ryan Dinsdale is an IGN freelance reporter. He'll talk about The Witcher all day.

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Mojang Brings Minecraft Dungeons Development to an End After Hitting 25 Million Players

Mojang has ended development on Minecraft Dungeons three years after launch and after hitting an impressive 25 million players.

Minecraft Dungeons is a dungeon crawler spin-off that launched for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PC, and Xbox One in May 2020, and for Xbox Series X and S in February 2021. IGN’s Minecraft Dungeons review returned a 7/10. “Simple and fun to play, Minecraft Dungeons is a good entry-level dungeon crawler, but it doesn't dig too deep,” we said.

In a note to players, Mojang said Minecraft Dungeons “exceeded our wildest dreams”, but “every journey has an end”. Update 1.17, released November 2022, goes down as Minecraft Dungeons’ last, and now Mojang has moved on to new projects “that continue to explore experiences in the Minecraft universe”.

This means there are no new features or content updates planned for Minecraft Dungeons. “We do intend to continue bringing new experiences to the Minecraft universe and give our team the freedom to keep exploring the types of games they're passionate about — just as they did with Dungeons!” Mojang continued.

Despite this, Minecraft Dungeons remains online and playable. “There are still plenty of adventures to be had together with your friends; dungeons to spelunk, ancient hunts to conquer, and toppling a Tower whose layout will continue to rotate,” Mojang said.

Mojang’s work on Minecraft continues, of course. In April, Mojang released Minecraft Legends, a strategy spin-off that combines traditional Minecraft gameplay with real-time strategy elements.

Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.

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Renewed Concern for Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic Remake as Trailers and Tweets Are Culled

There is renewed concern for the status of the troubled Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic remake after fans spotted trailers and other promotional material was pulled from the internet.

X user @Crusader3456 flagged that the 2021 Playstation Showcase trailer for the KOTOR remake was set to private, and posts published by Sony on official social media channels were pulled.

Last year, development on the KOTOR remake was reportedly paused indefinitely after disappointment over progress made with the hotly anticipated RPG. A demo built by Texas-based studio Aspyr apparently failed to impress when shown to Lucasfilm and Sony, which led to development being put on hold. The remake’s art director Brad Prince and design director Jason Minor subsequently left the project.

The KOTOR remake was then moved from Aspyr to World War Z and Space Marine 2 developer Saber Interactive. Both studios are owned by parent company Embracer, which is currently closing studios, canceling games, and letting go of staff amid a punishing restructure.

Aspyr had worked on the KOTOR remake for three years before it was finally announced in Sony’s 2021 PlayStation Showcase, where it was revealed that original voice actor Jennifer Hale would be returning as Bastila Shan.

At the time, it was set to be released as a PC and PlayStation 5 console exclusive and was touted as a full remake developed from the ground up. Originally developed by BioWare, Knights of the Old Republic has consistently been regarded as one of the best Star Wars video games and western RPGs.

According to reports, Aspyr was targeting a late 2022 release date for the remake but insiders suggested 2025 was a more realistic target. It’s now even more unclear how this project will continue. IGN has asked Sony and Embracer for comment.

Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.

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Xbox Controllers Are Already Back on Sale in the UK Before Prime Day 2

Xbox controllers have once again gone back on sale in the UK, this time dropping to just £39.99 at most retailers. The sale comes only weeks before we see Amazon's Prime Day 2 (Prime Big Deal Days, October Prime Day) return on October 10-11.

Black Friday season will also soon be upon us, and we're also expecting to see similar discounts on Xbox controllers, games, and other accessories over the next couple of months. But, if you want to get in on the sales early (just in case we see your favourite colour sells out), then the deal is available here for all to check out.

What to Expect from Prime Day 2 and Black Friday?

Gaming console deals are usually some of the hottest sales of Black Friday, but you can also usually get some pretty great discounts on video games and accessories as well. These price cuts usually come in the form of popular games dropping under £30 or a BOGO sale.

The sales usually exclude the best new games of the year, but if you don't mind browsing top games of the past 5 years then you can usually find a really good deal. Some of the best Nintendo Switch games dropped under £30 last year, for example.

Robert Anderson is a deals expert and Commerce Editor for IGN. You can follow him @robertliam21 on Twitter.

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Portable Xbox Series S Screen is Now Officially Licensed by Xbox

UPSpec Gaming has announced that its xScreen for Xbox Series S is now an official 'Designed for Xbox' licensed product. This means it has undergone rigorous testing and validation by the Xbox Quality Assurance (QA) team, providing additional reassurance to potential buyers of the portable screen.

We gave the xScreen a 7/10 in our review, stating: "UPspec’s xScreen is a fantastic portable monitor that makes the most compact ninth-generation console to date a lot more portable-friendly. Requiring just a single cable to power both the display and monitor, the xScreen is a good accessory for Series S owners who want to make their console portable or just be able to play when all the other screens in your household are occupied."

While the original price tag of $250 may still be seen as premium more than a year later, it's worth noting that the xScreen is presently available at a discounted rate of $209.99 on Amazon for those who are interested in acquiring this fully licensed portable screen.

The xScreen boasts an 11.6-inch 1080p foldable IPS display, available in a single white color variant. Its design is sleek and minimalist, featuring a foldable hinge that provides a laptop-like experience when connected to the Series S console. To connect the xScreen to the Xbox Series S, you'll need an HDMI cable and one of the USB-A ports located on the back of the console.

Additionally, there are two optional accessories available for the xScreen, which are sold separately: a $59.99 traveling case designed to comfortably fit both the Series S console and the xScreen, making it ideal for travel, and a $24.99 set of stand feet that allows you to position the console and display vertically for added convenience.

Robert Anderson is a deals expert and Commerce Editor for IGN. You can follow him @robertliam21 on Twitter.

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Thursday, September 28, 2023

Valve Warns Counter-Strike 2 Cheaters It Will Punish ‘All Their Associates’, Too

Valve dropped Counter-Strike 2 on Steam yesterday alongside a stark warning to cheaters: not only will it ban them, but all their friends, too.

“When one or more party members get convicted of cheating and permanently banned, all their associates will be penalized with loss of Profile Rank and CS Rating,” Valve said in the release notes for Counter-Strike 2.

“In Premier, players with a very high established CS Rating are not allowed to party with accounts that do not have an established CS Rating,” Valve added, revealing another anti-cheating tactic specifically for Counter-Strike 2’s hardcore competitive mode.

Valve has battled against Counter-Strike cheaters ever since its hugely popular first-person shooter went on sale. Indeed, Counter-Strike 2 had a cheating problem before it even came out. So it makes sense that Valve would want to lay down a marker now at launch.

Valve announced Counter-Strike 2 in March. Running on Source Engine 2, the same game engine used on other Valve games including Dota 2 and Half-Life: Alyx, Counter-Strike 2 replaces its predecessor on Steam, where it’s already shot through the 1.3 million concurrent players barrier.

Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.

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Ridiculous 89-Hit Mortal Kombat 1 Combo Lasts Almost a Minute

Mortal Kombat 1 players have spent the game’s early life experimenting with the new Kameo system, which lets you call in other characters to perform an action. Using Kameo characters, players are working out how to do elaborate combos that involve “juggling” their opponent with multiple hits. But this new combo from evil sorcerer Shang Tsung is perhaps the most ridiculous yet.

Mortal Kombat professional player Jarrad "NinjaKilla212" Gooden, who won the Mortal Kombat 11 tournament at Evo this year, took to Twitter to publish a video showing an 89-hit combo from Shang Tsung, who, in old form, repeatedly juggles poor Baraka with Ground Skulls fireballs, and keeps the fun going by calling in Scorpion for a cheeky Kameo juggle. There's even a fancy side switch. (For more, check out IGN’s Shang Tsung character guide, which includes a move list and Fatalities list.)

“Your opponent hits you with this in a tournament, what you doing?” asks NinjaKilla212. I don’t know about you, but probably put my controller down and put the kettle on.

It’s worth pointing out that your average Mortal Kombat 1 match will not see combos like this. NinjaKilla212 is a professional player after all, and the combo itself only causes 45% damage due to scaling. Also, you can use meter to break out of combos in Mortal Kombat 1. Depending on how much meter resource you have going in, you’ll probably be able to put an end to Shang Tsung’s tyranny in 30 hits or less.

Mortal Kombat 1 players are, generally, positive about the new Kameo system because of the flexibility it gives combo construction. But perhaps this is one combo that might need a nerf.

While it’s looking at this combo, developer NetherRealm is also taking a look at a bug which gives Player 1 an advantage over Player 2. Meanwhile, the Nintendo Switch version of Mortal Kombat 1 has become the subject of ridicule for its eye-popping visuals. NetherRealm development chief Ed Boon has promised updates.

Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.

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Voxel-Based Heist Game Teardown Gets New PS5 Gameplay, Console Release Date

Teardown, the first-person, voxel-based heist game that might fairly be described as the delightfully bizarre lovechild of Burnout 3's Crash Mode, Minecraft, and Thief, is on its way to PS5 and Xbox Series X|S on November 15. Check out the release date trailer below, and our all-new exclusive eight-minute PS5 gameplay footage above.

Teardown was initially released for PC in April of last year, and developer Tuxedo Labs has been hard at work on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series version of it ever since. In Teardown, you'll roam an environment, planning out your route both to the loot and then out to the getaway van. But part of that planning involves utilizing the fully destructible voxel-based environment. If you need to blow a few holes in a few walls in order to simplify your route, go for it. Because once you set the heist in motion, you'll have precious few seconds to execute your plan and make it safely to the escape point.

Tuxedo Labs also detailed its content roadmap, telling IGN, "Players will be able to expand their experience even further with four new DLCs available as part of the game’s Ultimate Edition for $59.99, the Season Pass for $29.99, or individually for $7.99 each. This new content will include:

  • The “Time Campers” DLC, debuting on PC and consoles on Nov. 15, introduces a Wild West campaign expansion featuring new maps, setting-appropriate tools, and horses.
  • The “Folkrace” DLC, releasing in spring 2024, features a series of destructive racing game modes, three racetracks, and a fleet of new vehicles.
  • Two additional unnamed DLCs coming by the end of 2024.

Meanwhile, the developer adds, "Xbox Series X|S players who pre-order Teardown will get early access to bonus content, including the vehicle-based Löckelle Motor Park game map and two heavy-duty monster trucks."

PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium/Deluxe subscribers will get the standard version on day one. For everyone else, the standard version is $29.99, the Deluxe Edition (includes the base game and the first two DLC packs) is $39.99, and the Ultimate Edition includes everything – all four DLCs and the Quilez R0113R Robot in-game item – for $59.99.

For more on Teardown, don't miss the trailer for Creative Mode, the 7 dumbest ways we solved some of the puzzles in the PC version, Teardown's DICE Awards nomination for Outstanding Technical Achievement, and more.

Ryan McCaffrey is IGN's executive editor of previews and host of both IGN's weekly Xbox show, Podcast Unlocked, as well as our monthly(-ish) interview show, IGN Unfiltered. He's a North Jersey guy, so it's "Taylor ham," not "pork roll." Debate it with him on Twitter at @DMC_Ryan.

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Fortnite V-Bucks Increasing in Price

Fortnite V-Bucks will increase in price in the United States and several other countries on October 27, 2023, Epic Games has announced.

Revealed in a Fortnite blog post, the price increase of around 12% to 15% per bundle comes as a result of "economic factors such as inflation and currency fluctuations" and follows similar price increases seen in the UK, Canada, and Mexico.

Countries seeing a price increase now include the U.S., Czech Republic, Denmark, Eurozone countries, Hungary, Japan, Norway, Poland, Romania, Sweden, Turkey, and all countries where the U.S. dollar is the storefront currency.

The U.S. will see the following price increases: 1,000 V-Bucks rises from $7.99 to $8.99, 2,800 V-Bucks rises from $19.99 to $22.99, 5,000 V-Bucks rises from $31.99 to $36.99, and 13,5000 V-Bucks rises from $79.99 to $89.99.

Epic Games made clear Fortnite Crew subscription pricing is not impacted by the current changes but certain bundles will be adjusted when they return to storefronts. These include the Final Reckoning Pack, Skull Squad Pack, Graveyard Drift Quest Pack, Saint Academy Quest Pack, and Transformers Pack.

Fortnite regularly sees the addition of characters, items, and maps from other media franchises, with Star Wars' Ahsoka being the latest to make the jump. Other recent inclusions include Jujutsu Kaisen, Futurama, Spider-Man, and more.

In our 9/10 review of the game, IGN said: "Thanks to the freedom of its outstanding building mechanic, Fortnite Battle Royale isn’t just a great battle royale game — it’s one of the best multiplayer games in recent history."

Ryan Dinsdale is an IGN freelance reporter. He'll talk about The Witcher all day.

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Nexon's Medieval Fantasy Brawler Warhaven Shutting Down 6 Months After Launching in Early Access

Nexon's medieval fantasy brawler Warhaven is shutting down on April 5, 2024, just six months after it launched on Steam in Early Access...