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Email us at PSPodcast@sony.com! Subscribe via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or download here Hey, everybody! Tim, Kristen, and I are back this week to discuss late-game Saros (no spoilers), adventuring in LEGO Gotham City, and the sci-fi thrills of Directive 8020. Teammate Jim Eldin also joins for a special interview with Saros Composer Sam Slater. Stuff We Talked About Next week’s release highlights: Yerba Buena | PS5 007 First Light | PS5 Wandering Sword | PS5 Mina the Hollower | PS5 007 First Light PS5 Pro features — Before Bond breaks out on his reimagined origin story, learn how PS5 Pro features enable a smoother cinematic gaming experience. Open World games of PlayStation Plus — Looking for a new wide-open space to explore? Check out 13 must-play games that feature sprawling worlds you can get lost in with the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog, including new addition Star Wars Outlaws. Gran Turismo Worlds Series Milan — The first round of the Gran Turismo World Series takes place this Saturday, May 23, in Milan. Learn where to watch and how to unlock the exclusive Stealth Model race cars. State of Play — Tune in Tuesday, June 2 for over 60 minutes of updates, announcements, and reveals from top studios around the world. The Cast View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Kristen Zitani – Senior Content Communications Specialist, SIE View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image O’Dell Harmon Jr. – Content Communications Specialist, SIE View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Tim Turi – Content Communications Manager, SIE Thanks to Dormilón for our rad theme song and show music. [Editor’s note: PSN game release dates are subject to change without notice. Game details are gathered from press releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.] View the full article

Last week, we asked you focus in on characters moving their hands using #PSshare #PSBlog. Let’s give a hand to this week’s highlights: cenrice shares Diana raising a hand to open an interface in Pragmata PattyGnand shares Ellie’s hands tuning a guitar in The Last of Us Part II rorottino shares Dollman using his hands to frame in Death Stranding 2: On The Beach xenobitz shares Cal raising his hand to use the Force in Star Wars Jedi Survivor Leumir4 shares someone covering their mouth with their hand in Red Dead Redemption 2 LastYearsModel9 shares Nathan playing with his wedding ring in Uncharted 4. Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme, or be inspired by other great games featuring Photo Mode. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week? THEME: LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on May 27, 2026 Next week, we’re putting up the Bat Signal. Share heroic moments playing LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight using #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured. View the full article

Becoming an agent of chaos or just enjoying the freedom of an entirely different space is all part of the open-world appeal, and the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog* is bursting with options. But we’re here to help. Check out 13 must-play open-world to get you started on your journey, including Star Wars Outlaws available starting today. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla | 2020 | Game Catalog Play Video Who wouldn’t want to carve their own Viking legend? Transporting the Assassin’s Creed series into the late 800s AD was a sharp move by Ubisoft, offering a compelling tale where your highly customizable protagonist Eivor engages in thrilling raids, detailed settlement expansion, and dual wielding combat. It’s a smart evolution that maintains the importance of stealth while mixing things up with novel elements, such as faking death to evade enemies or using a raven to not just scout but also distract enemies. You can even engage in a bit of flyting – that’s Viking rap battles, in modern parlance. Cyberpunk 2077 | 2020 / 2022 | Game Catalog Play Video When we refer to the term “cyberpunk” there are only a handful of examples in media which are as far reaching as Mike Pondsmith’s tabletop role-playing game – the starting point for CD Projekt Red’s slick dystopian title. True to its roots, Cyberpunk 2077 features the ability to tweak attributes such as Cool and Technical Ability to reflect your character’s build, letting you focus on hacking, assassination aptitude, and proficiency in specific weapon types. And while you’re roaming the futuristic and richly populated Night City streets, there’s plenty of colourful cybernetic characters to engage with, including everybody’s favourite digital rocker terrorist Johnny Silverhand, played by Keanu Reeves. Death Stranding Director’s Cut | 2019 / 2021 | Game Catalog Play Video When it comes to open-world adventures featuring famous faces, few games do it better than Kojima Productions’ unforgettable Death Stranding. Featuring performances from the likes of Mads Mikkelsen and Lea Seydoux, taking Norman Reedus’ Sam Bridges across a devastated United States to deliver cargo and reconnect society is a refreshingly unique experience. Few games have you managing inventory encumberment as intensely as this does, with each potentially fragile item you choose to carry across the challenging environments affects Sam’s speed and balance. Sure, you can also fight otherworldly creatures and bandits, but Death Stranding’s commitment to a strong social message and unpredictable gameplay elements has earned it many a deserved thumbs up. Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut | 2020 / 2021 | Game Catalog Play Video There aren’t too many open worlds set in feudal Japan, but Sucker Punch’s samurai epic stakes its claim with satisfying sword combat that cuts through an involving story of revenge and honor. Stealth and deception can be just as powerful a weapon as a blade, in what many have deemed the closest thing we’ve had to an interactive samurai movie. Fallout 4 | 2015 / 2024 | Game Catalog Play Video A sci-fi classic which has likely influenced a few of the games in this list, Fallout 4’s reputation has remained rock solid since its original PS4 debut. The power of cause and effect is prominent in Bethesda’s post-apocalyptic wasteland, as your actions can alter your character’s biology, local settlements, and even entire factions. But don’t worry, you can get a companion to help out with tasks and combat. Just as long as you keep them happy. Far Cry 6 | 2021 | Game Catalog Play Video The revolution really was televised in Ubisoft’s freedom fighting first-person shooter. As Dani Rojas, you use weapons ranging from conventional guns to quirkier means of destruction via the inventive Resolver weapons, including a deadly CD launcher. Supremo backpacks offer additional abilities and buffs, and vehicles from hovercrafts and tanks to even a wingsuit can be deployed. Oh, and watch out for the wildlife. Seriously. Grand Theft Auto V | 2014 / 2022 | Game Catalog Play Video Rockstar Games’ unforgettable open-world adventure still stands as one of the genre’s defining experiences. In Grand Theft Auto V, a young street hustler, a retired bank robber, and a terrifying psychopath find themselves entangled with some of the most frightening and deranged elements of the criminal underworld, the U.S. government, and the entertainment industry, they must pull off a series of dangerous heists to survive in a ruthless city in which they can trust nobody, least of all each other. Hogwarts Legacy | 2023 | Game Catalog Play Video If you’ve ever wanted to create magical mayhem in the Wizarding World, then look no further. Set long before the events of the Harry Potter books, Avalanche and Warner Bros. throw you into the perils of magic school, full of dark wizards, mythical creatures, and buried secrets. It’s one of the few open world adventures where you can learn spells, brew potions, and grow plants which can be used for crafting, or attacking enemies. Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered | 2017 / 2024 | Game Catalog Play Video Guerrilla’s first steps into an open world resulted in an instant classic, thanks to strong writing, powerful performances, and the novel concept of robotic dinosaurs. Horizon Zero Dawn’s exploration of a decidedly different dystopia where nature has reclaimed the Earth, crafts a game where its versatile protagonist Aloy is able to sneak, scale, swing, and snipe her way through a dangerous and mysterious world. You won’t be just relying on natural resources, either – high-tech gadgets and machine hacking are all essential to your progress, too. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth | 2024 | Game Catalog Play Video Turn-based role-playing game styled battles and larger-than-life conflicts are big parts of this instalment of the fan favorite Like a Dragon and Yakuza series, but don’t get it twisted – Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth has a sense of humor that keeps its story fresh, seeping into the many side experiences to distract you from its exploration and adventuring. Darts, karaoke, food delivery missions, and even arcade games like Virtua Fighter are all yours to enjoy on your travels through Yokohama and Honolulu City. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 | 2023 | Game Catalog Play Video Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 raises the stakes for Peter Parker and Miles Morales as they face a new symbiote threat led by a monstrous Venom. Swing across an expanded Marvel’s New York with faster traversal and new Web Wings, switching between both Spider-Men as their stories unfold. In combat, Peter’s symbiote powers and Miles’ bio-electric abilities take center stage against a lineup of iconic villains, including Kraven the Hunter and the Lizard. Red Dead Redemption 2 | 2018 | Game Catalog Play Video Set in America, 1899, Arthur Morgan and the Van der Linde Gang are outlaws on the run. With federal agents and the best bounty hunters in the nation massing on their heels, the gang must rob, steal and fight their way across the rugged heartland of America in order to survive. Red Dead Redemption 2 possesses a level of detail very few games can rival, making it one of the densest and widely realized open worlds available. Star Wars Outlaws | 2024 | Game Catalog Play Video The galaxy far, far away lends itself perfectly to an open-world adventure, and Ubisoft’s space western captures the look, feel and sheer sense of style that we love Star Wars for. Cantinas full of scum and villainy, space combat, speeders, alien gangs, sarcastic droids, and more are all part of the quest to escape a brutal crime syndicate. This is just a small selection of open world games available with PlayStation Plus, with so many more out there beyond this list. What other recommendations do you want to add? Sound off below and let us know. *PlayStation Plus Game Catalog is available with Extra and Premium/Deluxe memberships. Lineups may differ by region. Please check the PlayStation Store. View the full article

The Saros soundtrack blends dark synthesis, drone metal, manipulated voices, and walls of guitars so distorted they seem to summon the Eclipse itself. For composer, producer, and artist Sam Slater, creating the score meant more than writing music to accompany the action. It meant finding the soul of a planet. With the soundtrack launching today, May 22, we spoke to Sam about building Carcosa’s musical identity, writing for Arjun’s search for Nitya, and making music that sounds like the sky being torn apart. PlayStation Blog: You described the Saros soundtrack as a “wonderful, massive, dark puzzle”. When you first stepped into Carcosa creatively, what was the puzzle you felt you had to solve? Sam Slater: As with all projects, especially one as massive as a video game, the initial puzzle is: what is the soul of this score going to be? Greg Louden (Housemarque’s Creative Director), Joe Thwaites (Music Lead at PlayStation Studios Creative Arts), and I went in circles looking for the initial thematic or textural ideas that would allow us to grab hold of Carcosa and identify it as a place. As a composer, I tend to start from the idea of building a world. I want to know what that world is. At the stage where a composer joins a game, you have very early test imagery, but you do not have the completed video game in front of you, so everyone is trying to work out whether each idea is part of that world or not. That puzzle slowly stacks on top of itself until it becomes this incredible, time-bending, 3D puzzle made of music that also has to function and allow a player to get through the game. What was the initial creative conversation between you, Gregory Louden, and the Housemarque team? Greg’s a metalhead. I’m a metalhead. We share a lot of similar experiences and have probably stood in very similar crowds over the last 20 years of our lives. He had this idea of drone metal and dark electronic music, and the tension between those two worlds. One is very organic and overdriven. One is incredibly clean, but it is the high fidelity of those electronics that becomes overwhelming. Then you have to somehow bring those two together. We spent a long time trading tracks. There was a playlist where Greg and I were pinging music back and forth, and it went really wide. It was about aligning on a shared language for something incredibly abstract: the musical soul of a world that does not exist. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image The sound design is such a big part of how Saros feels. How did you think about the relationship between score and sound design? That is where the joy comes in. I do not see any distinction. There are people who care about the sound of a gun or a room dripping, and invest as much of themselves in those choices as I do in the score. One of the beautiful things about games is that we are talking about one audio engine, one system managing the information coming to our ears as a player. I do not see music as distinct from sound design. The sound design team and music teams were in constant dialogue. Should I leave space for you? Can you leave space for me? There was one discussion about a level where there is rain and atmospheric sound. It was positioned in the game where you might imagine you would want music to set something up. I wanted to step back, because atmospheric sound could do all the things music can do. The score has been described as growing out of the game world itself. How did the different biomes shape the music? The compositional frame behind the level design was quite functional. We would take core visual markers of the landscape and seek to mirror them in the score. Take Ancient Depths, for example. The main melodic idea is a ceramic, almost stone-like sound that has been knocked together into a giant cave and then re-pitched. The idea is that the reverb itself is always bending downwards. So the music is floating in the foreground, but every time something echoes into the distance, it tumbles downwards. You get this feeling of constant descent. Then, when the Eclipse is activated, there is an almost metallic percussion sound. Depending on how near or far you are from the machines, it will grab hold of the same rhythmic ideas that are in the sound design. So the music and sound design lock together depending on your proximity to the machinery. Throughout the game, a lot of sounds are made using human voices that have been manipulated. The idea was taking something human and transforming it into something completely unrecognisable. In Desecrated Fortress, we recorded the experimental vocalist Rully Shabara. We set up this huge dangling metal sheet, almost like tin foil, with a driver at the top and a microphone at the bottom, and created feedback so that every time he yelled into it, it stimulated this unstable piece of metal. It is indicative of the experimentation that happened throughout the score: taking human sound and pushing it into something unstable. I really wanted the only voice, the only shred of humanity left, to be Arjun’s ideas about Nitya. “Sun is Forever”, the lead track, began as a theme for Nitya. How did you approach writing music for someone who is absent, but emotionally central to the story? I do not believe she is absent. I think she is central, she is just distant. I did not want to think of it as a siren song. She is not meant to be luring Arjun; there is almost a motherly quality to it. I wanted the piece of music to have mystery, but not in an overt way. It should feel almost as though the voice is saying: when you meet me here, everything is going to be all right. That is why the entrance of the guitars either ruins that idea or defines it. I find it a very cathartic moment when those guitars come in. They push the voice out of the way, and the guitars are completely synonymous with the Eclipse in the game. So it is almost like the Eclipse pushing Nitya out of the way. The track has this contrast between love and longing on one side, and corruption and anger on the other. Was that contrast the heart of the whole score? I love contrast in music generally, and I think those contradictions are what make the story and the world compelling. Saros is a love story in many ways. Arjun is only a compelling hero because he is, in essence, corrupted. The humanity comes from the contradiction. That is throughout the whole score. The Eclipse is about degradation, overdrive, and things being pushed beyond their limits. Everything on the so-called “normal side” of Carcosa is looking at a kind of high definition that can then be destroyed by the Eclipse itself. How do you make music sound like it is being consumed and corrupted by the Eclipse? Housemarque kept saying the Eclipse had to feel like the world was pouring over. Overdrive [an audio effect that creates a warm, gritty, distortion] is a great sonic metaphor for that, because it is literally a waveform pouring over the limits of whatever circuit it is in. But the thing that defines the Eclipse most characteristically, in my opinion, is that every melody you hear in the non-Eclipse world is shifted exactly halfway through the scale. The world stays where it is and gets overdriven, but every single melody moves six semitones up or down the scale. Your brain still hears the root of the world, the low drones telling you where home is, but home has been destroyed. Suddenly, this melody you have been listening to for 20 or 30 minutes is completely in the wrong place. I do not want the player thinking, “Oh, that melody has been transposed.” But if I have done my job well, the feeling is brought into the player, and the world suddenly feels wrong. Saros has some incredible boss encounters. How do you approach writing boss music that feels memorable and intense, but still supports the player? It is so hard, and yet so enjoyable. The music needs to communicate energy very simply. When you are making it, you feel quite intuitively whether it is working or not, because you do not want it to end. If you are getting it right, you start flowing with the idea. I have noticed some player comments about a sense of flow, which is great, because when I was making those tracks I had that same feeling. If you get it right, they just roll. Every boss fight features the themes and sonic identity of its level, both the non-Eclipse version and the Eclipse version. The boss is absolutely the culmination of the thematic ideas of the level itself. At the same time, the musical language needs to shift in a way that gives you energy and pushes you through. If you are anything like me, you might be meeting that boss 20 times before you say goodbye and move on to the next one. What do you hope players feel when they finally step out of Carcosa and carry the soundtrack with them? When you watch a really good film, the credits roll and there is that little moment where you remember you are in a cinema, because the world that has been built is so coherent. That happens because every single person who made that film has done their job well. Games take a little longer to get through than a single sitting, but ideally, when the credits roll, players have that little jolt and remember they are not on Carcosa. We want to make this world as coherent and compelling as possible. I hope people enjoy that magic trick: a good story, good game, good music, good sound design, good acting, all of it working. Then they enjoy the reveal when they pop back into their sofas and think, “Whoa. Cool.” That is what I am crossing my fingers for. To hear the full interview with Sam Slater, check out the Official PlayStation Podcast later today. The Saros Original Soundtrack is available to stream on all platforms now. View the full article

Milan, a city defined by style, speed, and motorsport passion, becomes the center of the racing world this weekend. The Gran Turismo World Series 2026 begins inside the historic Teatro Lirico Giorgio Gaber, just moments from the iconic Duomo. The sold-out event marks Gran Turismo’s first-ever World Series appearance in Italy and opens a new global season where national pride, manufacturer legacy, and elite competition collide. Fans around the world will be able to experience every moment live in Gran Turismo 7, on Gran Turismo Live, YouTube, and Twitch. The opening round immediately delivers one of the season’s biggest storylines. Former World Champion Valerio Gallo arrives in Milan carrying the expectations of a passionate home crowd eager to see an Italian driver triumph on home soil. But standing in his way is reigning Nations Cup champion Jose Serrano, the Spanish star who established himself as the benchmark in 2025 and enters the new season as the driver everyone wants to beat. And the challengers are already closing in. Japan’s Takuma Miyazono travels to Milan directly from competing in the famous Nürburgring 24H race. He will be determined to quickly adapt from a real cockpit to the SIM rig as he bids to reclaim the title he won in 2020 and 2024. Spaniard, Pol Urra, continues his rise after another standout season in 2025. Meanwhile, 18-year-old Samuel Moreno, another prodigious talent from Spain, makes his Gran Turismo World Series debut in Milan, introducing a new generation of talent to the sport’s biggest stage. ​​ Round One is about more than early points. It is the first opportunity to seize momentum, establish psychological advantage, and shape the narrative that will define the championship race in the months ahead. Across both championships, elite drivers representing nations from Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas will compete in front of a live audience in two distinct battles. The Nations Cup transforms national pride and identity into rivalry on track, while the Manufacturers Cup turns automotive legacy and engineering reputation into a fight for global supremacy between some of the world’s most iconic brands. That manufacturer rivalry brings its own drama into 2026. Defending champion Team Porsche returns with their driver, Serrano. Once again, Porsche looks to defend its crown against a hungry field. Team Mazda enters the season chasing redemption after narrowly missing last year’s title with Urra leading the challenge, while Team Subaru introduces British newcomer Callum Moxon as fresh talent joins the championship battle. The World Series experience extends beyond the broadcast inside Gran Turismo 7 itself. Fans who watch the live streams in-game will unlock exclusive Stealth Model race cars, while predicting race winners and taking part in the Lap Time Challenge at Autodromo Nazionale Monza allows players to experience the competition alongside the world’s best drivers. The campaigns transform spectators into participants, bringing fans closer to the action throughout the weekend. Fans looking to follow every storyline, driver, race, and in-game campaign throughout the weekend can explore the Gran Turismo World Series 2026 Milan Event Page, and follow on Instagram and X. The Manufacturers Cup will start proceedings at 15:00 UTC, and the Nations Cup begins at 17:30 UTC. After the lights go out in Milan this weekend, it isn’t over. The Gran Turismo World Series 2026 starts here — and every rivalry, title fight, and defining moment that follows will trace back to the first lap in Italy. View the full article

State of Play returns Tuesday, June 2 with more than 60 minutes of updates, announcements, and gameplay reveals from top studios around the world. To kick things off, you’ll get a closer look at Marvel’s Wolverine. Insomniac Games will share more from its upcoming third-person action-adventure game showing off Logan’s brutal and relentless combat along with some new details. This all-new take on the comic book legend launches on PS5 September 15. Watch the State of Play broadcast live Tuesday, June 2 at 2:00pm PT / 5:00pm ET / 11:00pm CEST | June 3 at 6:00am JST on YouTube and Twitch. The broadcast will be in English, with Japanese subtitles also available. We hope to see you then! Play Video Regarding co-streaming and video-on-demand (VOD) Please note that this broadcast may include copyrighted content (e.g. licensed music) that Sony Interactive Entertainment does not control. We welcome and celebrate our amazing co-streamers and creators, but licensing agreements outside our control could interfere with co-streams or VOD archives of this broadcast. If you’re planning to save this broadcast as a VOD to create recap videos, or to repost clips or segments from the show, we advise omitting any copyrighted music. View the full article

With the launch of 007 First Light, PlayStation 5 Pro players will experience the game with upgraded PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) enabled by default. Upgraded PSSR is the next-generation, machine-learning-based upscaling technology from Sony Interactive Entertainment, designed to reconstruct a sharper, more stable image from a lower internal resolution, and at IO Interactive, the results spoke for themselves almost immediately. A cleaner, more stable image Upgraded PSSR brings a clear step up in image quality across the world of 007 First Light, from the dense foliage of outdoor environments to the close-up detail of character work in cinematic moments. The improvements are most visible in the kinds of scenes that have traditionally been the hardest for upscalers to handle. Cleaner picture, less flicker and graphic noise Upgraded PSSR substantially reduces shimmering and flickering artifacts, delivering a calmer, more cohesive image, especially in scenes packed with fine geometry and high-frequency detail. Better temporal stability under motion Whether the camera is sweeping through an environment or the player is sprinting between cover, upgraded PSSR holds the image together far more convincingly than before. Moving objects retain their definition instead of breaking up. Sharper reconstruction of hair and fine detail Hair, fabric, and other fine elements are reconstructed with greater clarity, which matters a great deal in a game where character presentation is central to the experience. “Upgraded PSSR gave us a meaningful jump in image quality across the board — cleaner, more stable, and noticeably sharper on the kind of fine detail that’s hardest to get right. It’s a clear upgrade for our PS5 Pro players.” – Henrik Schlichter, Technical Director, IO Interactive A remarkably smooth integration One of the most striking things about upgraded PSSR from a development standpoint was how little work it took to get a great-looking result. Our engineers had the new upscaler integrated in record time, and the output was strong enough out of the box that no per-scene tuning was required across the wide variety of locations and lighting conditions in 007 First Light. “We integrated upgraded PSSR in about a day and were essentially happy with what we saw straight away. No per-scene tuning, no special-case work — it just held up across the whole game. That’s not something we get to say very often about a piece of new tech.” – Jon Rocatis, Principal Render Engineer, IO Interactive Available at launch on PS5 Pro Upgraded PSSR will be the default upscaler on PlayStation 5 Pro for 007 First Light at launch. Players on other platforms will continue to benefit from FSR 3.1.5, which remains our upscaler of choice outside of PS5 Pro. We’re excited for players to experience 007 First Light at its visual best on PS5 Pro, and we’ll keep looking for opportunities to push image quality further as the platform and its tools continue to evolve. View the full article

We’re excited to show you more of the early portion of Elliot and Faie’s adventure in The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales, coming to PS5 June 18. At this point in the game, our dynamic duo has teamed up and ventured through a Doorway of Time, granting them access to the Age of Reconstruction, which is 250 years in the past. You’ll see how the people of this era cling together in a village called Littlehope, eking out an existence with meager resources and defenses. From here, Elliot and Faie will embark into a dangerous world that resembles their home in the Era of Safekeeping, but subtle differences will keep the spark of exploration alive. One of the main attractions in this demo is the Doorway Ruins, located in the eastern section of Philabieldia. This dungeon has it all: platforming, puzzles, plenty of beastmen to do battle with, and treasure to discover. You can even get a powerful new sword for Elliot, which will come in handy when you go to face the dungeon’s formidable boss, the Tag Guardians. In this fight, you’ll have to defeat a Greatsword Guardian and a Great Bow Guardian. The guardians move quickly and aggressively, with the Greatsword Guardian wielding a huge blade with surprising range and the Great Bow Guardian launching shots at you from afar. Elliot has all seven weapon types available to him in this demo, so you can find the strategy that works best for you. With the hammer, for example, Elliot can unleash a devastating charge attack, and with the boomerang, he can deal damage from afar. By changing up Elliot’s magicite setup, you can also find new ways to customize the combat experience to your liking. Faie’s magic will also come in handy as she can help Elliot speedily escape a tricky situation. Speaking of Faie’s abilities, it’s also possible to unlock a new power for her in this demo. By seeking out the Shrine of the Mystic, Faie can learn the Warp ability, which enables Elliot to teleport to her location. This is super useful for solving puzzles and for evading enemy attacks. There’s plenty more for Elliot and Faie to do beyond the Doorway Ruins and Shrine of the Mystic. The pair can freely fast travel to any discovered adventuring guideposts in the two eras unlocked in this demo, so you can check out what secrets the world has to offer. One fun piece of side content we’ve implemented is cat collecting, which is exactly what it sounds like. Throughout the world, you’ll find cats that you can collect on behalf of a cat-fancying traveler. You’ll get various rewards for your efforts, so it’s definitely worth keeping an eye out for any stray felines. When you want to take a break from adventuring, you can also check out Faie’s Magic Lessons, which are fun minigames accessed through the menu. The sprint minigame in particular is a favorite of ours, and it will have you racing down an icy mountain, pursued by an avalanche. Through these minigames, you can unlock records that allow you to listen to the in-game soundtrack. I hope this preview has grabbed your interest. This is just a small look at what the full game has to offer, and we can’t wait for you to embark on your journey with Elliot and Faie when The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales launches on PlayStation 5 on June 18, 2026. To give you a better glimpse of what to expect, we’re excited to share a Q&A with the development team. (Note: All answers are translated from Japanese.) Why did you choose to make this an action RPG rather than a turn-based game? Tomoya Asano: Through the HD-2D visual style, we first explored the RPG genre with Octopath Traveler, followed by the strategy genre with Triangle Strategy. Building on that progression, we wanted to reach an even broader, newer audience with this latest entry, which led us to adopt the action RPG genre for this title. As the development team, what lessons did you learn from other HD-2D games that you applied to this project? Could you tell us about the challenges you faced in incorporating HD-2D into the action gameplay, and how you overcame them? Naofumi Matsushita: The appeal of HD-2D lies in the fact that, by using 3D backgrounds, we can create a sense of depth in the maps and scenery, even though the characters are 2D. The challenge was how to fuse that strength with 2D action gameplay. In pixel-art 2D action games, the entire screen tends to be dominated by the ground of the map. However, that prevents players from feeling the depth of a 3D environment, and the visuals can end up feeling rather dull to users. In this title, particularly in the field areas, we’ve implemented a drum roll technique where the map curves in the background to reveal distant terrain. By applying unique innovations to further maximize the visible range, we’ve created an experience that conveys a sense of depth despite being a 2D action game. We achieved this through careful coordination with the development team, and is a key creative aspect that differs from our previous HD-2D titles. Furthermore, we’ve introduced a unique element—controlling your fairy partner Faie—and added elements to the core battle system that allow players to use their own strategies. Our intention was to let players enjoy traditional fun within a beautiful visual style while also providing a new experience through these unique elements. We achieved this balance by playing the game extensively and refining it day by day. Could you tell us about the development team’s vision for this time-travel action RPG? Tomoya Asano: Having worked on many RPGs over the years, I’ve come to realize that the past plays a crucial role in storytelling. The idea that if players could actually experience that past led to the creation of a storyline where you travel back through time using the Doorway of Time to explore different eras. So, rather than traveling to every corner of the world, this story focuses on untangling the history of a single nation within a specific region. Naofumi Matsushita: The tagline is derived from, “Hope is always there,” a phrase that appears in the story itself and holds deep significance for us. I’d like players to discover and experience the theme and message for themselves by actually playing the game. And I would love for players to enjoy this thousand year journey as they experience the history of the town and the lives of its people unfold across the four eras. We hope you enjoyed this extended look at The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales, and prepare to explore more dungeons and take on giant bosses when the game arrives on June 18 for PS5. View the full article

Email us at PSPodcast@sony.com! Subscribe via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or download here Hey, everybody! Sid, Kristen, and I are back this week to discuss min/maxing runs in Saros, the music and vibes of Mixtape, and other games that’ve been keeping us busy. We also have a special interview about Ghost of Yōtei Legends endgame raids with Sucker Punch Lead Designer Darren Bridges. Stuff We Talked About Next week’s release highlights: Darksiders: Warmastered Edition | PS5 R-Type Dimensions III | PS5 Coffee Talk Tokyo | PS5 Warhammer 40,000: Speed Freeks | PS5 Bubsy 4D | PS5 LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight | PS5 Scuf Omega PS5 controller — Check out the new officially licensed performance controller from Scuf. It features 28 inputs and numerous customization options to cater to a wide variety of gaming preferences. Saros “Finding Carcosa” dev diary — Peek behind the curtain of the third-person sci-fi shooter and see how Housemarque brought protagonist Arjun to life. Spoiler: It’s a mix of performance tech and a bad experience with LA traffic jams. PlayStation Plus May Game Catalog PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium Star Wars Outlaws | PS5 Red Dead Redemption 2 | PS4 Bramble: The Mountain King | PS5, PS4 The Thaumaturge | PS5 Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn | PS5 Broken Sword – Shadows of the Templar: Reforged | PS5, PS4 Enotria: The Last Song Standard Edition | PS5 PlayStation Plus Premium Time Crisis | PS5, PS4 The Cast View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Sid Shuman – Senior Director of Content Communications, SIE View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Kristen Zitani – Senior Content Communications Specialist, SIE View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image O’Dell Harmon Jr. – Content Communications Specialist, SIE Thanks to Dormilón for our rad theme song and show music. [Editor’s note: PSN game release dates are subject to change without notice. Game details are gathered from press releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.] View the full article

Last week, we asked you to share your goal-winning moments from EA Sports FC 26, available to all PlayStation Plus members* as part of the PlayStation Plus Monthly Games lineup for May. Here are this week’s highlightings: Photomode_Raro shares the ball being kicked up and close to the foreground. call_me_xavii shares a goalie holding the ball outside the goal. fsantos1697 shares a view of the crowd at the stadium. lucaslu_ckli shares a goalie reacting in disbelief at a goal, while the opposing player runs off Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme, or be inspired by other great games featuring Photo Mode. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week? THEME: Hands SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on May 20, 2026 Next week, put ‘em up! Share moments focusing on characters using their hands in the game of your choice. Use #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured. *PlayStation Plus Monthly Games lineup may differ by region. Please check PlayStation Store on release day for more information. View the full article

Launched last month, the Ghost of Yōtei Legends Raid forms the endgame of Sucker Punch’s multiplayer mode, as Ghosts face off against the last two of the supernatural Yōtei Six, The Dragon and Lord Saito. Well, them, plus a horde of warriors and labyrinth strongholds that four players must cooperate together to survive. With enough time now passed, we sat back down with Lead Designer Darren Bridges to delve into the creative processes behind the Raid. Spoilers follow, so if you’ve yet to level up and tackle the Raid, then bookmark this article until you’ve returned to the lobby flush with success. The full interview will be available to listen to later today on the Official PlayStation Podcast. Play Video “One of our original thoughts was: it’s like an escape room where people are trying to kill you.” The Raid’s elevator pitch “One of our original thoughts was: it’s like an escape room where people are trying to kill you. It’s four player, hardcore, challenging content. And there are puzzles that you need to work together as a team to complete. And, of course, there are enemies who are also trying to kill you, so it often will involve a lot of learning, coordinating, and performing as a team in order to succeed.” Learnings from Ghost of Tsushima Legends and its Raid “[Ghost of Tsushima Legends] was the first time we’d done anything like that as a studio. It had a lot of successes. It brought that level of challenge and learning and team coordination requirements. But it was also kind of unbalanced in the pacing and the length of it. A lot of players weren’t able to play it. The first time I played the second chapter of the Raid with my friends, I think it took six hours. So you had to have a group of four who were committed and could set out that amount of time. So it was epic, but it was also kind of inaccessible in that way. You know that you’re serving multiple audiences. When you’re building content, there are people who want really hardcore and those who don’t have that much time. They may want to play, but they may not be able to set aside that much time. So we wanted to enable those same experiences of challenge, but make it easier for players to step in. If they had to step away, they could rejoin. So this time in Ghost of Yōtei Legends, the missions are paced a little more consistently and, if we’ve enabled it so that if you replay it, you can play just the boss. So if your team has made it through the puzzles, but then you’re struggling with the boss, run out of time, someone has to leave… you can come straight back to the boss.” “I love hearing in a co-op game where there’s no text on screen naming something, how every team comes up with their own language for describing or expressing it.” Raid missions built to prepare you for what’s to come “When we were building the Raid, we wanted to introduce elements [on the mission to the boss encounter] that would prepare you for what you’re going to face in the fight. “So in The Dragon fight, you’ll see the giant Bo-Hiya missiles dropping, so you get a little bit of an introduction to that. And then Saito’s giant sword attack that is mostly undodgeable. If you hit your ultimate, you can avoid it, but it’s just kind of damage that you have to take. And so we introduce that ahead of his fight. We want them to make sense and build off the things that you learned throughout the rest of the experience. I would also say I love hearing in a co-op game where there’s no text on screen naming something, how every team comes up with their own language for describing or expressing it. Every time when we watch streams there’s a natural language evolution that happens in-game as people are trying to describe this thing and communicate to each other.” Adding new threats to throw players off their game… “In The Dragon fight, there’s a moment where bombs start dropping on individual players, and you have to run around. In Legends in general, you can’t hurt other players, but suddenly there’s bombs dropping on you. So wherever you go, you’re creating a danger area. So as everyone’s panicking, you see someone running towards you, and if you cross paths, you’re both going to get blown up by the bombs that are falling. So you have to coordinate to either avoid the giant bombs or destroy them.” …and discovering surprising ways to counter those dangers “If you are a Shinobi and vanish, the bombs stop tracking you, stop dropping. And if you can get near your teammates and cause them all to vanish, it’ll skip that entire bomb drop sequence. That was actually something that we didn’t plan for. But when we were testing it, we saw it, and we’re like, oh, that’s actually really awesome.” “We wanted to create moments which we call ‘Group Jump Rope’, where everyone has to do something together as a team, and other moments where one person can be the hero and carry and support the rest of the team.” Built to work together… “A lot of our combat team play Raids in different games. Especially boss-type Raids. So they’re excited to express that design in the Yōtei universe and with the Yōtei combat mechanics. “One of my favorite parts is the Shadow Saito guys that attack you. I mean, I hate them. But the fun part is it’s a great moment for players to practice calling things out for each other. If one player sees the boss getting ready to summon you can call it out, and then everyone else can prepare and try to react in time. We wanted to create moments which we call ‘Group Jump Rope’, where everyone has to do something together as a team, and other moments where one person can be the hero and carry and support the rest of the team. So you want blends of those throughout the battle.” …and Builds to work together “We wanted to have elements that would reward or encourage different build types, or build craft and people bringing their ingenuity and theory to it. We made sure to place a Gear Station right at the beginning of the [Saito] boss fight. So anytime you die as a team, you’ll start back right at the Gear Station. You can tweak your build. And for that fight, you’ll want some perfect parry buffs, to help you against the shadow warriors. Then you need some way to deal with his health, reduce the damage from his big explosion attacks, either, you know, healing, or, you know, some other way. So we wanted the Team Build to impact the experience.” “Those teams have a different mindset, even in how they play. It feels like building an obstacle course with your local team and then throwing Olympians at it.” Watching the first team of players complete the Raid “When you’re making something, you’re always like ‘no one’s going to beat that, this is going to be tough, this is going to slow people down’. And sometimes it does, and sometimes it doesn’t. “The world’s first team beat Saito, I think, in like two minutes. And they had spent, I think, an hour or so leading up to that point. And so I thought, oh, you know, I was thinking, proportionally, it’ll probably be another half hour or something… and they just headshot him. They found the most kind of efficient and optimal way to defeat him. And that team, those teams, have a different mindset, even in how they play. It feels like building an obstacle course with your local team and then throwing Olympians at it. But it’s awesome. You never know exactly what will happen, but that’s part of what makes it exciting. And then a lot of the other teams that we watched took more of what we would have expected, two to three hours, to learn and repeat and practice and defeat that boss. So there’s always a variety. “There’s not many times in game development where you actually get to release content and see how people react. It’s especially fun with Raid type content, where teams have prepared leading up to that point. It’s really cool when they’re streaming with a Raid team, they will often have their mics on and broadcasting audio. You get a window into what they’re thinking as they’re playing and that communication… you get to see all of it evolving as they’re playing. It’s a very clear window into their full experience. So as developers, that’s really fun to see.” A Ghosts’ tale concluded “The Raid update was our last major planned update for Legends. It finishes the story of the Yōtei Six in that mode. We’ve loved to see players playing it, continue to play it and enjoy it. It’s been great.” You can enjoy the Raid and the entire elections multiplayer mode with Ghost of Yōtei, available now on PlayStation 5. View the full article

You grip your controller until your thumbs go numb. You’re just gonna go on one more run. Hypnotic waves of colorful bullets fill the screen as you weave through the chaos, locked into an adrenaline-pumped flow state. But beneath that audiovisual and technical excellence, there are narrative reasons to explore the hostile alien world of Carcosa. Play Video The Soltari Enforcer, Arjun Devraj, played by actor Rahul Kohli, is deployed alongside a rescue crew, to Carcosa to secure a lost mining colony, though he may be harboring ulterior motives. The story of Saros takes Housemarque in a new bold direction, and it’s all propped on the shoulders of the actors behind these performances. ​​ Finding Carcosa: Becoming Arjun is a behind-the-scenes documentary that explores how Arjun came to life. Taking you onto the performance capture stage, the film features exclusive footage and new interviews with Kohli and the development team, detailing exactly what it took for Arjun to find his voice. “As both a filmmaker and a lifelong gamer, I’ve always been fascinated by what makes a video game character truly feel authentic. Really pop out of the screen. With this episode, I wanted to not only peel back the curtain to share a glimpse of the technical side of performance capture, but also shine some light on the human process behind it.” says Paul J. Vogel, the director of the three-part Finding Carcosa documentary series. The tech and freedom of performance capture “I hated it,” laughs Rahul when asked about his first day on the performance capture stage. “It’s a very strange feeling. You spend most of your time worrying how you look in this lycra wet suit, wishing you’d gone to the gym. It takes an hour or two before you stop feeling silly. That’s the strange thing. It starts tech heavy – calibrating your fingers. And then once you’ve done that, it felt like an empty stage with actors and a director, and a script. Most actors are comfortable with doing a lot with very little. From day one in a rehearsal space, you are working without props, without stage furniture. Everything else, [the tech], has just gone.” Rahul references advice he received from Troy Baker. “He said it was the purest form of acting you’ll ever do. And he was right. I’m not playing to the camera… it’s just about me and [the other actors].” Finding the characters’ by focusing on story-driven scenes first The studio made sure to organise the shoot order so the cast could settle into the character’s roles, and find their respective voices. “We started with a lot more of the dream elements,” explains Louden. “That way they didn’t need to know exactly who they were. They could be more dreamlike and from there go into the more realistic, naturalistic performance.” Gamer-turned-game protagonist “He’s [Rahul Kolhi] a gamer as well, so he knows what he is looking for a videogame character,” reminisces senior narrative designer Khalil Osaimi. “On set he had so many notes, even with the script. It was really interesting to see him collaborate with Greg, because it was like two kids with action figures [laughs]. They created a fantastic spectacle. “That collaboration was how to add these little details for players, and bring this level of authenticity whether players are watching the performance capture or hearing the voice over… it feels real.” How a traffic jam helped Rahul find Arjun’s voice “I had to catch a flight, and Housemarque wouldn’t have access to me for six months,” says Kolhi. “And they needed the trailer. And in order for me to make my flight I had to record on the other side of town in LA crazy early. And I’m stuck in traffic. And I was so worked up and angry at seven, eight in the morning. We recorded the teaser trailer. And that voice that came out was angrier, more intense than anything we’d done or explored previously. And Greg and I were immediately like… ‘wait, that’s him. That’s who we’ve been looking for’…. being angry and not being good enough to hide it… that was where Arjun was really born.” “Rahul’s anecdote about finding the true voice of Arjun is the perfect summary of how sometimes the creative nature of storytelling can be unpredictable. It’s funny because it is so completely unglamorous. Stuck in traffic, already late for a recording session and up against the clock for a departing flight. It shows how a character can come alive from research, rehearsal and collaboration with your director… but sometimes all it really takes is one very bad commute,” Paul continues It was not only amazing to see Rahul’s dedication to find Arjun, but also how much it meant to him on a personal level. You can feel how Saros is a milestone in his career that he might have not even dared to dream of some years ago. As both an actor and an avid gamer, he understood the assignment and felt the weight in bringing to life a character that hopefully would resonate with gamers across the world. Thank you so much Rahul and the whole cast, and a thank you to all our players as well. Saros is available now on PS5. View the full article

This month, outwit the galaxy’s crime syndicates, witness the end of the Wild West era, confront twisted creatures inspired by Nordic folklore, or uncover the secrets of early 20th-century Warsaw. All these titles and more are available in May’s PlayStation Plus Game Catalog lineup*. Meanwhile, PlayStation Plus Premium welcomes the iconic arcade shooter Time Crisis. The full lineup will be available to play on May 19. *Digital PS5 games available to stream from your library will vary over time, region, and country. PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium | Game Catalog View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Star Wars Outlaws | PS5 Experience the first-ever open world Star Wars game and explore distinct planets across the galaxy, both iconic and new. Risk it all as Kay Vess, an emerging scoundrel seeking freedom and the means to start a new life. Fight, steal and outwit your way through the galaxy’s crime syndicates as you join the galaxy’s most wanted. If you’re willing to take the risk, the galaxy is full of opportunity. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Red Dead Redemption 2* | PS4 From the creators of Grand Theft Auto V and Red Dead Redemption, Red Dead Redemption 2 is a sprawling tale of life in America at the dawn of the modern age. The end of the Wild West era has begun as lawmen hunt down the last remaining outlaw gangs. Those who will not surrender or succumb are killed. After a robbery goes badly wrong in the Western town of Blackwater, Arthur Morgan and the Van der Linde Gang are forced to flee. With federal agents and the best bounty hunters in the nation massing on their heels, the gang must rob, steal, and fight their way across the rugged heartland of America in order to survive. As deepening internal divisions threaten to tear the gang apart, Arthur must make a choice between his own ideals and loyalty to the gang who raised him. Red Dead Redemption 2 also includes Red Dead Online — the multiplayer experience set in the living world of Red Dead Redemption 2 — ride solo or form a posse; run moonshine; battle lawmen, outlaw gangs, ferocious wild animals, and much more as you forge your own path on the American frontier. *PlayStation Plus re-release. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Bramble: The Mountain King | PS5, PS4 Bramble The Mountain King takes you on a gripping and unsettling journey through stunning environments. Take on the role of Olle, a young boy setting off to rescue his sister, kidnapped by a dreaded troll. Not everything in Bramble is exactly how it seems – in this strange land with creatures big and small, you must be careful when to approach and when to hide. Many hungry and spiteful beasts lurk in these forests and caves. Watch your step…. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image The Thaumaturge | PS5 Wiktor Szulski is a thaumaturge, a master of mystical arts, who can peer into the hearts and minds of others, uncovering their deepest emotions, desires, and secrets. However, his powers also feed into his flaw of pride, which can present him with various opportunities or lead to negative consequences. As a thaumaturge, you draw your power from the ability to summon salutors – mystical, folklore-inspired demons that inhabit the ethereal realm. Use their powers to manipulate your foes, sway the minds of allies, and fight opponents in turn-based tactical combat. Engage in deep, tactical combat against various opponents – some physical, others more elusive. Wiktor’s thaumaturgical abilities let you bend the rules of reality, summoning demons to unleash powerful attacks or gain strategic advantages. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn | PS5 From games studio A44, makers of Ashen, comes an explosive Souls-lite, where Gods and guns collide in a battle for the future of humanity. The Door to the Great Below has been opened unleashing the Gods and their armies of the Dead. The lands of Kian are besieged, the city of Dawn is on the brink of destruction. It’s time for the Coalition army to fight back. Embrace vengeance, gunpowder and magic as you embark on an epic journey to defeat the Gods, close the door and retake the world. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Broken Sword – Shadows of the Templar: Reforged | PS5, PS4 Step out onto the streets of Paris in “Broken Sword – Shadow of the Templars: Reforged”, a substantially enhanced version of the multi-award winning, all-time classic adventure. Enjoy a globe-spanning story when intrepid American George Stobbart and fearless journalist Nico Collard are pitched into a gripping adventure, exploring exotic locations, solving ancient mysteries, and thwarting dark conspiracies to discover the arcane secrets of the Knights Templar. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Enotria: The Last Song Standard Edition | PS5 Enotria is an action RPG soulslike set in a beautiful sun-lit land inspired by Italian nature and folklore, and it is up to you to unravel the mysteries of this stunning world. Become the Mask of Change and free the world from the Canovaccio – a twisted eternal play that keeps the world in unnatural stasis. Don the Mask of your fallen foes to assume their roles and enable new ways of playing. Choose strategically which Mask to use and swap between up to three custom loadouts at any time. Defeat the mighty Authors and free the world from stagnation. PlayStation Plus Premium View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Time Crisis | PS5, PS4 The arcade smash hit, Time Crisis, is back. The home version that debuted on PlayStation in 1997 returns on PS4 and PS5, complete with the original console-exclusive special stages and all-new gyro aiming. Dive into a thrilling firefight, taking cover behind walls and doors to evade enemy attacks. This title has been converted from the PlayStation version to the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles and provides newly added features. *PlayStation Plus Game Catalog and PlayStation Plus Premium/Deluxe lineups may differ by region. Please check PlayStation Store on release day. View the full article

Building on 15 years of pro player insights and controller designs, meet Scuf Omega, a new performance controller that is officially licensed for PlayStation 5 consoles and compatible with PS5 consoles, PC, Mac, iOS, and Android. Starting today, players will be able to get their hands on a new controller experience that is engineered for seamless integration, low-latency connectivity, and the advanced customization Scuf is known for. 11 more ways to win Scuf Omega gives players a total of 28 inputs. This includes 11 additional customizable inputs – 4 rear paddles, 2 side buttons, and 5 G-Keys – that put the most critical actions exactly where hands already are. By customizing these inputs, players can jump without lifting a thumb, reload while still aiming, or slide mid-sprint. Remap any input directly on the controller or go deeper with the Scuf Mobile App to build multiple profiles, fine-tune layouts between matches, and dial in a completely different setup per game. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image The Scuf Mobile App: Create the perfect setup Available on iOS and Android, the Scuf Mobile App provides complete command over how Omega performs. Build and manage multiple profiles for different games or playstyles Save setting directly to the controller Dial in sensitivity with true 0% deadzones Fine-tune trigger and thumbstick response curves Choose your thumbstick response zone: Circle, Square, or the default Squircle Configure SOCD settings for fighting games Manage microphone, volume, and audio controls Recalibrate thumbsticks to maintain peak accuracy Monitor battery level and charging status Set up mobile gaming connectivity Stay current with the latest firmware updates Personalize your RGB lighting strip (PC only) Inputs that fire when you do Scuf Omega features Omron mechanical switches across its Instant Triggers, D-Pad, and Action Buttons, which is the same technology powering high-end gaming mice. Every press satisfies with crisp, mouse-click precision. Adjustable Instant Triggers let you toggle between lightning-fast click mode for FPS accuracy or full analog range for throttle and feathering control. Endurance Thumbsticks Scuf Omega’s Endurance TMR Thumbsticks use non-contact magnetic sensing technology for long-term reliability. Players can choose from concave or domed shapes in short or tall heights to match their grip and playstyle. Recalibrate at any time through the Scuf Mobile App. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Built for the long game Omega’s ergonomics are 15 years in the making, refined through real-world competition and direct feedback from the pros who play at the highest level. Every contour puts the paddles where fingers naturally fall. A non-slip grip texture keeps players locked in through gaming sessions and final-circle moments alike. Vibration modules have been removed to reduce weight and eliminate interference during the micro-adjustments that matter most. 15 years in the making Omega represents the culmination of over a decade of innovation and proven performance at the highest level. 15 years of pro insights and refinement applied to the most demanding games of this generation. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Scuf Omega launches worldwide starting today Scuf Omega launches starting on May 12, 2026 for a recommended retail price of $219.99USD/€239.99EUR/£209.99GBP/37,980.00JPY (pricing and availability may vary by region). To learn more about the Scuf Omega controller, visit Scuf Gaming’s website. View the full article

Greetings, Travelers! The Genshin Impact development team is back with the latest details on Version “Luna VII,” “Truth Amongst the Pages of Purana,” arriving on May 20. This update will welcome two familiar faces to the playable roster as new 5-star characters: Nicole Reeyn, known to the Hexenzirkel by the codename “N,” and Lohen, Vice Captain of the Knights of Favonius’ Fifth Company. They will be joined by the new 4-star character Prune, who provides powerful support for Hexerei characters. As new allies join the fray, an even greater crisis looms. The Traveler will return to Sumeru to confront a formidable enemy who threatens to plunge the nation into disaster. Meanwhile, a very different story unfolds in Inazuma. A whimsical fairy-tale adventure filled with games and fantasy is about to begin, as Klee, Sayu, and newcomer Prune embark on a wondrous journey fueled by boundless imagination. A Guiding Light, A Keen Blade As one of the last surviving angels, Nicole Reeyn has borne witness to the passage of ages, amassing knowledge that bridges the past and present. Known within the Hexenzirkel by the codename “N,” she is a quiet guide who lights the way for the lost and silently lends aid to those in need. Now, this steadfast guide joins your party as a 5-star Pyro Catalyst wielder, enhancing her allies’ ATK while shielding them in battle. In combat, Nicole’s Elemental Skill creates a shield that absorbs incoming damage and deals AoE Pyro DMG, while also granting all nearby party members an ATK Bonus based on her own ATK. This effect is further enhanced when the active character is a Hexerei character, granting an additional ATK increase. Nicole can also gain a temporary ATK Bonus of her own when nearby active party members deal Elemental DMG. Her Elemental Burst deals AoE Pyro DMG and grants the active character an Arcane Projection. This projection performs Coordinated Attacks at fixed intervals, dealing AoE Elemental DMG based on the active character’s Element. When the active character is a Hexerei character, the Arcane Projection takes on a unique form and deals increased DMG. Outside of combat, Nicole’s Charged Attack can summon nearby Seelie to guide the way, much like a Treasure Compass. Meanwhile, at the Meeting Point: The Witch’s Garden, Nicole’s Witch’s Lodge has opened its doors, inviting Travelers to discover hidden treasures and endless surprises. If light brings warmth and guidance, then the blade answers with cold precision and a razor-sharp edge. Few knights possess Lohen’s relentless will to fight until victory is won. As Vice Captain of the Knights of Favonius’ Fifth Company, Lohen never backs down, charging into the fray without hesitation. Now, as a 5-star Cryo Polearm wielder, he brings this unstoppable edge to your party, wielding a unique combat style forged on the battlefield. More about his story and the Knights of Favonius’ past will be revealed in his Story Quest. In combat, Lohen unleashes devastating Cryo DMG by making use of two unique resources: “Joy” and “Will to Win.” His Elemental Skill allows him to enter a special state, during which his Normal and Charged Attacks generate Joy when they hit enemies, while DMG dealt by nearby party members generates Will to Win. By consuming Joy, Lohen can trigger a special Elemental Skill; by consuming Will to Win, he can further increase this special Elemental Skill’s DMG and enhance his Elemental Burst DMG. After unlocking the Hexerei: Secret Rite effect, his Normal and Charged Attacks also have a chance to deal increased DMG based on the amount of Will to Win accumulated. In addition, Prune, the 4-star Anemo Catalyst wielder known as the “Witch Hunter,” will make her debut in this update. She provides sustained off-field DMG while increasing her teammates’ overall damage output. In Version “Luna VII” Event Wishes, the first half will feature the debuts of Nicole and Prune, alongside Durin’s rerun, while the second half will introduce Lohen and welcome back Mavuika. Return to Sumeru: Reunion and Reckoning This journey has carried us far, yet some mysteries remain unresolved. Now, the path leads back to Sumeru, where a crisis gathers, answers await, and an enemy bearing a familiar face steps into view. A mysterious enemy bearing an uncanny resemblance to The Doctor has emerged. This new Boss fights with cunning and cruelty, teleporting across the battlefield and summoning a powerful force to halt your advance. Even getting close will be a challenge. Yet Sumeru will not face this crisis alone. Trusted allies from across the land are rallying to its aid, and Nicole stands ready to offer her guidance whenever it is needed. To help Travelers keep track of this epic storyline, a new “Guiding Notes” feature has been added to the Quest Overview interface, allowing you to review key details and character backgrounds at any time as you progress through the quest. Archon Quests will also now include save prompts, making it easier to experience the story at your own pace. Complete the quest to claim a limited-time reward of Primogems ×560, along with Nicole’s Ascension Materials. Gathering with the Little Witches Saving the world may be important, but the magic hidden within the little witches’ secret base is just as worthy of pursuit. Head to Inazuma and join this whimsical gathering of little witches! Together with Klee, Sayu, Qiqi, Yaoyao, and their new friend Prune, set off on a playful, magical adventure full of mischief and wonder. This limited-time event features a variety of fun mini-games, each brimming with cheerful charm. First up is “Dodoco’s Bomb-Rally Ruckus,” where Travelers will use different field effects and whimsical gadgets to help Klee pass Jumpy Dumpty to all her Dodoco companions. You can also join “Gena’s Great Escape,” dodging obstacles as you race toward the finish line while collecting as many Onigiri as possible. In addition, Yuegui will need your guidance to overcome obstacles, collect radishes, and reunite with her scattered companions. Finally, cap off the festivities with an exhilarating combat performance: In the “Fantasy Realm Performance” prepared by Prune, Travelers will complete training challenges to build up momentum and deliver a spectacular battle showcase. Participate in these events to claim a range of generous rewards, including the exclusive weapon appearance “Super Awesome Magic Key.” More Fun and Updates Version “Luna VII” also brings a wealth of updates and surprises. Travelers can obtain Echo Cosmetics for Navia and Wanderer, while Repertoire of Myriad Melodies welcomes the new album “Hexerei: Ballad of Whimsical Polyphony.” Score Themes for Durin and Varka will also be available for exchange in Treasure of Myriad Melodies. Miliastra Wonderland also receives a wide range of updates and improvements in this version. New events will roll out in succession, offering Primogems and other rewards to participants. A unique sports festival is also in the works, introducing new forms of friendly competition. In addition, your Manekin can now perform a variety of actions across Teyvat, allowing you to capture memorable moments along the way. We hope you’re excited for everything Version “Luna VII” has in store. See you in Teyvat on May 20, Travelers! View the full article

Last week, we asked you to share moments of celebration from the game of your choice using #PSshare #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights: call_me_xavii shares a Nora celebration in Horizon Zero Dawn: Remastered. leenc90 shares Alicia and Hugo headed into a celebration in town in A Plague Tale: Requiem aanderrodrigues shares Ellie celebrating her birthday from a museum in The Last of Us Part II. JarrinWasHere shares Sam lifting a hand in the air in celebration in Death Stranding 2: On The Beach. Photomode_Raro shares the Jans and a sheep celebrating in The Alters. guybgee shares Cloud celebrating a combat victory in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme, or be inspired by other great games featuring Photo Mode. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week? THEME: EA Sports FC 26 SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on May 13, 2026 Next week, hit the pitch and share goal-worthy shots from EA Sports FC 26, available as a PlayStation Plus Monthly game for May. Use #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured. View the full article

It’s time to see which PS5, PS4, PS VR2, and free-to-play games topped last month’s download charts. In April, Pragmata landed as the top downloaded game in the top the Asia charts, while Little Nightmares VR: Altered Echoes debuted on the PS VR2 charts, and NTE made an appearance on free-to-play. Check out the full listings below. What titles are you playing this month? PS5 Games AsiaUS/CanadaPRAGMATAMLB The Show 26Crimson DesertPRAGMATADead Island 2Crimson DesertTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered FateNBA 2K26EA SPORTS FC 26StarfieldResident Evil 4Content WarningHades IIGrand Theft Auto VThe Witcher 3: Wild HuntMOUSE: P.I. For HireIt Takes TwoMinecraftHadesCall of Duty: Black Ops 7NBA 2K26SAROSGrand Theft Auto VHades IIForza Horizon 5EA SPORTS FC 26Hogwarts LegacyARC RaidersGran Turismo 7EA SPORTS Madden NFL 26Diablo IVWWE 2K26Resident Evil VillageResident Evil 4MLB The Show 26Ready or NotDAVE THE DIVERInvincible VSMarvel’s Spider-Man 2Resident Evil Requiem *Naming of products may differ between regions *Upgrades not included PS4 Games AsiaUS/Canada Red Dead Redemption 2Red Dead Redemption 2Shadow of the Tomb Raider: Definitive EditionGang BeastsThe King of Fighters ’97: Global MatchCall of Duty: Black Ops IIIResident Evil 6Resident Evil 6A Way OutRESIDENT EVIL 5Overcooked! 2Call of Duty: Modern WarfareGod of WarBatman: Arkham KnightTomb Raider: Definitive EditionSTAR WARS Battlefront IIThe King of Fighters XIVA Way OutRise of the Tomb Raider: 20 Year CelebrationMinecraftWatch Dogs 2Mortal Kombat XCall of Duty: Modern WarfareGrand Theft Auto VMonster Hunter: WorldCall of Duty: WWIIMetal Slug 3CupheadBloodborneResident EvilEA SPORTS FC 26God of WarUncharted: The Nathan Drake CollectionTom Clancy’s The Division 2Guns, Gore and Cannoli 2theHunter: Call of the WildRESIDENT EVIL 5NBA 2K26Need for Speed HeatUNCHARTED The Nathan Drake Collection *Naming of products may differ between regions PS VR2 Games* AsiaUS/CanadaHorizon Call of the MountainStar Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge – Enhanced EditionBeat SaberBeat SaberAlien: Rogue Incursion VRAmong Us 3D: VRMetro AwakeningJob SimulatorMaestroMetro AwakeningArizona Sunshine 2The Walking Dead: Saints & SinnersCrossfire: Sierra SquadAlien: Rogue Incursion VRLittle Nightmares VR: Altered EchoesLittle Nightmares VR: Altered EchoesKayak VR: MirageArizona Sunshine 2Arizona Sunshine RemakeWRATH: Aeon of Ruin VR – Brutal Edition *PlayStation Store purchases only. Game upgrades or games bundled with hardware not included Free to Play (PS5 + PS4) AsiaEURobloxRobloxNTE: Neverness to EvernessFortniteWhere Winds Meet (F2P)Rocket LeagueeFootballCall of Duty: WarzoneDelta Force (F2P)NTE: Neverness to EvernessThe Seven Deadly Sins: OrigineFootballPUBG: BATTLEGROUNDSThe Seven Deadly Sins: OriginAsphalt LegendsTom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege – Free AccessArknights: EndfieldAsphalt LegendsGenshin ImpactFall Guys View the full article

It’s time to see which PS5, PS4, PS VR2, and free-to-play games topped last month’s download charts. In April, Pragmata landed in the top three on the US charts, while Little Nightmares VR: Altered Echoes debuted on the PS VR2 charts, and NTE made an appearance on free-to-play. Check out the full listings below. What titles are you playing this month? PS5 Games US/CanadaEUMLB The Show 26EA Sports FC 26PragmataCrimson DesertCrimson DesertGrand Theft Auto VNBA 2K26StarfieldStarfieldPragmataContent WarningMinecraftGrand Theft Auto VHades IIMOUSE: P.I. For HireContent WarningMinecraftUFC 5Call of Duty: Black Ops 7Resident Evil 4SarosNBA 2K26Hades IIMouse: P.I. For HireEA Sports FC 26Call of Duty: Black Ops 7Arc RaidersIt Takes TwoEA Sports Madden NFL 26Resident Evil 2WWE 2K26The Witcher 3: Wild HuntResident Evil 4SarosReady or NotForza Horizon 5Invincible VsNo Man’s SkyResident Evil RequiemPoppy Playtime: Chapter 1 *Naming of products may differ between regions *Upgrades not included PS4 Games US/CanadaEURed Dead Redemption 2Red Dead Redemption 2Gang BeastsGang BeastsCall of Duty: Black Ops IIIA Way OutResident Evil 6EA Sports FC 26Resident Evil 5Resident Evil 6Call of Duty: Modern WarfareResident Evil 5Batman: Arkham KnightMinecraftStar Wars Battlefront IIUnravel TwoA Way OutGrand Theft Auto VMinecraftSTAR WARS Battlefront IIMortal Kombat XCall of Duty: Modern WarfareGrand Theft Auto VCall of Duty: Black Ops IIICall of Duty: WWIIMetro ExodusCupheadtheHunter: Call of the WildResident EvilGod of WarGod of WarBatman: Arkham KnightTom Clancy’s The Division 2Uncharted: The Nathan Drake CollectiontheHunter: Call of the WildNeed for Speed HeatNBA 2K26Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Campaign RemasteredUncharted The Nathan Drake CollectionAssassin’s Creed Unity *Naming of products may differ between regions PS VR2 Games* US/CanadaEUStar Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge – Enhanced EditionStar Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge – Enhanced EditionBeat SaberMetro AwakeningAmong Us 3D: VRJob SimulatorJob SimulatorHorizon Call of the MountainMetro AwakeningBeat SaberThe Walking Dead: Saints & SinnersAlien: Rogue Incursion VRAlien: Rogue Incursion VRAmong Us 3D: VRLittle Nightmares VR: Altered EchoesCooking Simulator VRArizona Sunshine 2Creed: Rise to Glory – Championship EditionWrath: Aeon of Ruin VR – Brutal EditionLittle Nightmares VR: Altered Echoes *PlayStation Store purchases only. Game upgrades or games bundled with hardware not included Free to Play (PS5 + PS4) US/CanadaEURobloxRobloxFortniteFortniteRocket LeagueRocket LeagueCall of Duty: WarzoneCall of Duty: WarzoneNTE: Neverness to EvernessNTE: Neverness to EvernessTom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege – Free AccesseFootballApex LegendsThe Seven Deadly Sins: OriginMarvel RivalsTom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege – Free AccessThe Seven Deadly Sins: OriginAsphalt LegendsFall GuysFall Guys View the full article

The team here at Cyan is excited to announce that we’re launching the modern remakes of our award-winning puzzle adventure games Myst and Riven on PS5 and PlayStation VR2 May 19. Myst and Riven (the sequel to Myst) were originally released on PC and the original PlayStation in the ‘90s and quickly became cultural phenomena. In fact, the release of the original Myst in 1993 had an approximately 10-year-long run of being the best-selling PC game in the world. To celebrate how popular both games were on the original PlayStation back in the day, the classic versions of Myst and Riven from the original PlayStation were re-released digitally last year, thanks to efforts between both Cyan and Sony Interactive Entertainment, and continue to be available to purchase and play in most regions worldwide. I’m excited to have this opportunity to share more about how we made sure that our remakes of Myst and Riven could take advantage of both PS5 and PS5 Pro features to bring folks the best experience based on the way they prefer to play. Flatscreen and PS VR2 play Both Myst and Riven will support both flatscreen (2D) and PS VR2 at launch. This was the toughest part of development for us – making sure the experience of players using either playstyle would shine. We brought over some lessons we learned from a release of a previous title of ours on PS5, Firmament (which also supported both 2D and VR), to help improve each playstyle – both in interactions, graphical fidelity, base render resolution, performance, and more. In turn, some of the lessons we learned from these new releases have also already been brought back into Firmament. We’re excited to see how players react to being able to experience Myst and Riven with their preferred play method. Ray-traced reflections and Performance mode Myst and Riven will also support ray tracing through the display of ray-traced reflections (limited to flatscreen mode only). We’ve made sure that this support is included in our games on both the PS5 and PS5 Pro. While ray-traced reflections are enabled, frame rate is limited to 30 FPS to account for a smoother play experience while more time is spent on the render thread. While ray-traced reflections are disabled (with screen-space reflections being used instead), each game’s frame rate is increased to 60 FPS. Players have a choice in enabling ray-traced reflections by disabling the Performance Mode checkbox in the Display settings menu in each game, which will also subtly change the base render resolution of the game to accommodate for leveraging graphics vs. leveraging performance. PS5 Pro Enhanced features We’re also happy to state that Myst and Riven are both officially PS5 Pro Enhanced titles. This means a couple of things in our case – the first of which is an increase in graphical fidelity in each game’s flatscreen mode on PS5 Pro, including better view distance, foliage, textures, post-processing, and shading. Second, players in VR on PS5 Pro in both games will have better base render resolution when playing each game – and in Riven’s flatscreen mode, leaving the Performance Mode checkbox enabled will grant better base render resolution. The games are taking advantage of tweaked implementations of Unreal Engine’s TSR, which allows us to use upscaling on both PS5 Pro and base PS5 in return for better graphics options. Power Saver Mode support Myst and Riven will also join the list of PS5 games with Power Saver support. Power Saver mode is a relatively new feature for PS5 that enables games to scale back performance to save on energy consumption (and therefore save on energy costs for many players). Both Myst and Riven support this new feature by decreasing each game’s base render resolution and forcing a fixed frame rate of 30 FPS. Delve into Myst and Riven The Cyan team worked hard to make sure that these from-the-ground-up remakes of Myst and Riven take advantage of plenty of PS5 features, especially for PS5 Pro. Whether you’re playing from the comfort of your couch with a DualSense wireless controller in flatscreen mode, or enjoying our games up-close and personal in PS VR 2, we think you’ll be in for quite a treat. We appreciate everyone’s support of our studio and hope to keep making great games for another 40 years! Myst and Riven on PS5 are available to wishlist beginning today, May 5, and will be available to purchase and play for $34.99 USD each on May 19. View the full article

In Haly’s Circus, the legendary Flying Graysons are plummeting to their doom. Again. Or maybe not. After taking a long drop which typically results in Dick Grayson mourning his fallen parents, the duo gets up and promptly fires their son, prompting Bruce Wayne to employ him and take up the Robin mantle. It’s a comedic change of lore which perfectly captures what LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight is all about – all ages enjoyment, while still being respectful to the source material. I got the chance to romp around Gotham City to get an idea of what to expect ahead of its PlayStation 5 launch on May 22. My time with the game featured single-player mode, but two-player local co-op will also be supported. Classic stories told in new ways As with the Flying Graysons example, LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight is all about subverting some of the expectations of the character’s history, having a little fun with well-known storylines, and referencing scenes from comics, TV, animated series, and even other video games. “We wanted to make the definitive [Batman] background story,” says TT Games’ Executive Producer Matt Ellison. “DC Comics described this game as a remix of Batman’s Greatest Hits. We want to make a unique story out of that and showcase him in a different way.” To that end, this knowing mash-up features all kinds of references, from the red Bat-phone of the Adam West TV series, to a costume from the current smash hit comic book Absolute Batman. Movie influences everywhere And to keep things up to date, default depictions of some characters like Catwoman and Commissioner Gordon are given a touch of Warner Bros. The Batman film, complete with performances that feel reminiscent while remaining distinct. “Jim Gordon is played by Colin McFarlane, who also played Commissioner Loeb in The Dark Knight,” says Matt. “His voice really suits that character. He’s got a lot of gravitas, but he’s also good fun to listen to. How their voices played off each other was really important to the story.” Arkham Asylum-style combat It’s not just aesthetics which have been borrowed from other tales, either. Joining a LEGO version of Joker’s incarceration from Batman: Arkham Asylum are the detective styled Focus Mode and slick combat system, clear nods to the Rocksteady fronted series. You can chain attacks with the Square button, and when prompted with on-screen warnings Triangle initiates a counter and the Circle button dodges. The latter is essential when facing off against armoured or shielded goons to get around their protection, as well as avoiding gunfire, with R1 letting you break out a finishing move once your Focus Meter is maxed out, which ranges from a flurry of punches to a pair of cymbals across the ears. Something I gleefully employed when facing off against a variety of colourful goons as I answered random distress calls of muggings and gang warfare across the crime ridden Gotham City. Don’t forget about the gadgets Like another sequence cribbed from Tim Burton’s first Batman flick, there are plenty of chances to play with the Bat family’s “wonderful toys” via the R2 button. Of the seven playable characters, I was given access to Batman, Gordon, Robin, and Catwoman, each with their own selection of gadgets. Some were traditional, like Batman’s Batclaw, others… not so much. Personal favourites were Catwoman’s ability to summon a feline who can attack enemies and enter enclosed spaces, and Gordon’s bizarre foam sprayer which can both gunge up gears and security cameras, as well as encase baddies, which you can then punt off screen. Stealth hasn’t been neglected, either. When exploring the Iceberg Lounge I had to sneak across the rafters of Carmine Falcone noisy club (complete with a DJ proudly declaring “who’s ready for more of the exact same beat!”), and wade through a massive ballpit in a hilariously unexpected funhouse. I was able to perform one-shot takedowns, but gratefully, discovery didn’t mean a game over – it simply meant diving into combat with angry guards crying out “you’re cutting into our ballpit time!” A cave of classic LEGO humour “Putting a twist on expectations is the way we often make humorous situations and surprise people,” says Matt. “We have these dark characters but we want to be appropriate for children as well as the older audience.” So like the best family comedy, the laughs in LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight are often double or triple barrelled, where its humour is both explicit and subtle. A training montage with Robin is full of LEGO stud shaped bat guano and a great Rocky Balboa steps moment, while an earlier moment with Two-Face has the villain screaming “I cannot sanction your buffoonery!” to his falling thugs, in reference actor Tommy Lee Jones’ infamous off-set outburst during the filming of Batman Forever. And in another scene Bats and Gordon attempt to blend in with a party crowd by busting out some breakdancing moves that trigger a short rhythm action sequence. Who knew the ol’ Commish could pop his minifig body like that? The City never sleeps There are plenty of deepcut references across Gotham City, too, along with knowing billboards, and BatMite shops to visit. While suitably dark and occasionally rainy, the open world is alive with vehicles, and pedestrians who wave and chat to our heroes, an active train network which you can ride on top of, and lots of crimes and puzzles to tackle. Pressing the Up directional button unleashes the Batmobile for getting around the city if you don’t fancy using the fun combo of a grappling hook and glider, with driving, combat, traversal trials if you want to practice your skills. There are even spots where you can just sit and watch the world go by. Suit up for more costumed capers With the ability to change into a variety of different skins for each of the playable characters, TT Games has ensured there’s a costume for all occasions no matter if you’re trekking through Nanda Parbat or fighting Poison Ivy in her carnivorous garden. “We really want to celebrate the character and his history through all the different media that he’s been in,” grins Matt. “But we also want people with different levels of Batman knowledge to enjoy the game. There’s something for everyone.” You’ll be able to join in the big and slightly batty celebration when LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight swoops onto PS5 on May 22. View the full article

Hi Hunters, we’re excited to be back with a big update on Horizon Hunters Gathering; let’s talk about what we’ve been up to since the first playtest a few months ago, and what you can expect from the next one. If you can’t wait, skip to the next paragraph for all the details on when it’s happening and what you can expect. At the end of February, we invited a small group of players into the Gathering for the first time. For three days during select play windows, we saw folks get their first taste of Machine Incursion, try to master the playstyles of either Rem, Sun, or Axle (or all three.), and work together through the challenges of Cauldron Descent. We are incredibly grateful to those who took the time to play, gave us invaluable feedback on their experience, or stuck around on our official Discord server. Since then, we’ve been focusing on a host of improvements based on that first playtest, as well as getting additional content ready for the next one. A lot of people have also been asking questions about the game, the world of the Gathering, or some of our planned features, so if you haven’t yet: check out our ongoing developer Q&As we’ve been hosting on Discord and socials. We’ve really enjoyed sharing more about our ideas, processes, and development with you. New playtest in May Whether you want to return for another round, couldn’t make it into the first playtest, or prefer to experience the game firsthand, we’re happy to share that the next closed playtest will take place between May 22 and 25.* Just like last time, the game will be playable on both PlayStation 5 and PC (Steam), with registration exclusively through the PlayStation Beta Program for both platforms. (Note: if you’re having trouble with the link, first sign in on PlayStation.com and then try clicking the link again.) Play Video Aside from quite a bit of implemented player feedback (which we will highlight at a later date), there will be a bunch of new content to explore. Two new Hunters: Aside from Rem, Sun, and Axle (who have each received improvements.), you can now get to know Ensa; a charismatic Oseram smuggler with a mercenary past. Or the mysterious Shadow, a Carja covert operative who commands a fearsome Stalker machine. We will be sharing a little more about them in the coming weeks. A playable Episode: Episodes play a central role in the game’s narrative campaign by introducing new mysteries, characters, and mechanics. Pick your Hunter, ready up, and head into the wilds to save Ashwater Valley from a horde of machines. Added difficulty: Two familiar game modes return with higher stakes than ever, as the war against the machines continues to ravage the wilds: Machine Incursion is a high-intensity mission where waves of machines pour out from underground gateways, led by a formidable boss. To make things more interesting and encourage you to return for an even greater challenge, we’ve added two additional difficulty modes: Hard and Merciless. We dare all Hunters to try and beat a Thunderjaw and a Ravager at the same time… Cauldron Descent is a longer, multi-stage trial pushing Hunters to their limits, from brutal machine encounters to hidden doors that promise power and reward for teams prepared to open them. Coordination and teamwork with other Hunters here are key to success, and our second playtest features even more challenging rooms to explore. New Region: Travel to Breakers’ Bounty, featuring dense jungles and ravaged ruins bordering a scorching desert home to dangerous machines, in order to save the Oseram and stop the incursion. You’ll also still have access to Devil’s Thirst, and of course the Gathering: the central social space where you can meet other players, build your loadout, and customize your camp. Play your way: Training Modules have been added to improve general onboarding for the game and its systems. For players wanting to master the hunt in Solo Mode, Hunter NPCs will be available for this playtest during Episode or Machine Incursion modes. These NPCs (either Rem, Sun, or Axle) offer battle assists where possible or can automatically fill an empty spot on a three-player team. We want to emphasize again: Horizon Hunters Gathering is a game in development; we choose to playtest early and with small numbers to focus on the core experience and implement player feedback before opening to bigger groups of players. We learn a lot from each playtest and this second one is no different; we appreciate each of you who take the time to leave us your honest thoughts. There’s much more to explore on your next adventure into the wilds. Over the coming weeks, we will be dropping more playtest information on our Hunters Gathering Discord and social channels, so keep an eye out for news there. For a chance to play the game between May 22 to 25, sign up via the PlayStation Beta Program. This link will automatically flag you as interested in Horizon Hunters Gathering. We will be sure to let you know when invites for the playtest are being sent. Thanks for the continued support and all of us at Guerrilla look forward to welcoming you (back) for another hunt! *Internet connection required for the playtest View the full article

Last month was filled with adventures across moons, mindscapes, and the cartoon world! Some big new releases included Mouse: P.I. for Hire, Pragmata, Little Nightmares VR: Altered Echoes, Hades II, and Saros. Which game was your favorite? How does it work? At the end of every month, PlayStation Blog will open a poll where you can vote for the best new game released that month. After the polls close we will tally your votes, and announce the winner on our social channels and PlayStation.Blog. What is the voting criteria? That’s up to you! If you were only able to recommend one new release to a friend that month, which would it be? Note: re-released games don’t qualify, but remakes do. We define remakes as ambitious, larger-scale rebuilds such as Resident Evil 4 (2023) and Final Fantasy VII Remake. How are nominees decided? The PlayStation Blog editorial team will gather a list of that month’s most noteworthy releases and use it to seed the poll. View Poll View the full article

Hello everyone! I’m Takeshi Yamanaka, Producer of MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls. Today at EVO Japan 2026 in Tokyo, we revealed our third team to join the Challenge of the Champion: Fighting Avengers. Be sure to check out the new team reveal trailer below! Play Video A new team joins the battle: Fighting Avengers View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Joining the previously announced Captain America (voiced by Brian Bloom) and Iron Man (voiced by Josh Keaton) are Hulk (voiced by Fred Tatasciore) and Black Panther (voiced by Erica Luttrell), forming the brand-new team: the Fighting Avengers. Led by Captain America, this newly formed Avengers squad comes together to confront a new threat facing Earth. As heroes watched closely—and admired greatly—by people around the world, we hope you’re looking forward to seeing how they rise to the challenge in Episode Mode. New stage revealed: Wakanda View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image We’re also excited to announce a brand-new stage: Wakanda. Wakanda is a nation located in Africa, blessed with rich natural landscapes while also standing as a global leader in advanced scientific technology. Traditionally protected by its king, the Black Panther, Wakanda is now ruled by the young Black Panther, Shuri, who has taken on the mantle to defend her people. New playable character: Hulk View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image A green goliath whose strength grows with his rage, Hulk once fought alongside the Avengers to save the world. However, in MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, his overwhelming power and instability lead the government, S.H.I.E.L.D., and even his fellow teammates Captain America and Iron Man, to exile him to the Savage Land. There, Hulk lives a quiet life, surrounded by nature and animals, but his distrust of the Avengers has yet to fade. During development, Hulk’s backstory was established early on. While staying true to the core design concept of a massive, gamma-radiated powerhouse, elements inspired by this narrative were incorporated into his design. Hulk adorns himself with dinosaur bone armor toreinforce his feral, untamed fighting style and highlight his raw power. Hulk can overpower opponents at any range with sheer force. Channeling his anger builds his unique Gamma Gauge. When it reaches maximum, Hulk enters Gamma Rage which significantly boosts his strength and speed. Build up the Gamma Gauge and unleash devastating one-shot attacks at just the right moment to deal massive damage. New playable character: Black Panther View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Ruler of the great African nation of Wakanda, Shuri protects her country as the Black Panther.  Having only recently inherited the mantle, she struggles with doubts about whether she is truly ready for the role.  As a new threat approaches, Shuri must make critical decisions, not only as a warrior, but as a queen who must balance tradition and progress. When we decided to include her in the roster, her character backstory was discussed and established early on. Having only recently taken up the mantle of Black Panther alongside her existing role of Wakanda’s chief scientist, Shuri’s design reflects this important transition. Sleek, athletic lines emphasize a sense of speed befitting an acrobatic fighter, while preserving the primal wildness that defines the role. At the same time, subtle touches of Wakandan royalty are woven into the finer details of her suit, reflecting the weight of leadership she now carries. In combat, Black Panther excels with swift movement and long reach using the Spear of Bashenga. She possesses a high-speed mobility skill called Bast’s Blessing, allowing her to dash in multiple directions. Bast’s Blessing consumes a dedicated gauge, but it can be canceled from normal attacks and skills, enabling varied and flexible combos and mixups. Dominate mid-range battles with precise spear attacks, then close the distance with lightning-fast movement to overwhelm opponents up close. New threat revealed: The Champion View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image The latest trailer also introduced a new character: The Champion. One of the Elders of the Universe, Champion has existed since the birth of the universe and travels the cosmos alongside his right-hand showwoman, Promoter. A cosmic conqueror obsessed with hand-to-hand combat, he journeys from planet to planet in search of worthy opponents. Those who fail to satisfy his thirst for battle face the ultimate consequence: the destruction of their entire world. And now, his next target has been chosen: Earth. Under Promoter’s direction, the “Challenge of the Champion” tournament has been announced. Teams of four will battle through qualifiers, earning the right to face Champion himself. But is there more to this sinister game than just sport? The Fighting Avengers enter the tournament as one of its leading contenders. More details about Champion will be revealed soon! What’s next? Did you enjoy the hands-on demo at EVO Japan? Thank you so much for all your feedback! We truly appreciate it and it is already helping shape development. Next up, we’ll be bringing the newest playable build to: Combo Breaker 2026, starting May 22 in Chicago, Illinois Hong Kong Comic Con 2026, starting May 29 in Hong Kong The build will include the newly announced Black Panther and the Wakanda stage, for a total of 13 playable characters and five stages. If you’re attending either event, be sure to stop by and try it for yourself! Development is entering its final stages, and the entire team is working hard every day to deliver the best possible experience at launch. Thank you, as always, for your continued support! We’ll have more news to share soon! View the full article

Email us at PSPodcast@sony.com! Subscribe via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or download here Hey, everybody! Sid and I are back this week to celebrate the launch of Saros with a special interview featuring Actor Rahul Kohli and Creative Director Gregory Loudeni from Housemarque. Stuff We Talked About Next week’s release highlights: Wax Heads | PS5 Mixtape | PS5 Arc Raiders PS5 Pro update — The new PS5 Pro update is now available and it brings PSSR upscaling and other enhancements to the third-person extraction shooter. 4:Loop The Scanner boss design — The feature offers a walkthrough of the design process behind this ominous cube from the developers at Bad Robot Games. Learn how staying in motion is key to survival, and how each boss encounter is a unique puzzle. The Blood of Dawnwalker impressions — Coming to PS5 on September 3, dive into the unique time mechanics where time passes by a little or a lot, depending on your actions. Will you be able to save your family in the 30-day timeframe? NBA The Run gameplay reveal — Get your first look at the high-octane, momentum-based gameplay inspired by classic streetball video games. Make sure your sneakers are laced up for when this game comes to PS5 this June. 007: First Light hands-on — The latest look uncovers how Bond deploys stealth, action, and charm in his origin story. The game launches on PS5 May 27. The Cast View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Sid Shuman – Senior Director of Content Communications, SIE View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image O’Dell Harmon Jr. – Content Communications Specialist, SIE Thanks to Dormilón for our rad theme song and show music. [Editor’s note: PSN game release dates are subject to change without notice. Game details are gathered from press releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.] View the full article

Last week, we asked you to share moments from your favorite cozy games using #PSshare #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights: elizado_ shares a plant and book-filled room in When The Past Was Around. PattyGnand shares Swann laying in bed with her cat in Lost Records: Bloom & Rage. call_me_xavii shares the comfy quarters of Stardew Valley xenobitz shares a grilling picnic in progress in My Time At Sandrock. KevinFerna43259 shares the titular stray cat taking a nap in Stray. FuchsFeuer22763 shares a cozy sweater and scarf-based outfit in Infinity Nikki Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme, or be inspired by other great games featuring Photo Mode. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week? THEME: Celebrate SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on May 5, 2026 Next week, share moments from your favorite game where characters are celebrating. Use #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured. View the full article