Gayathri Kallukaran is a Junior Journalist with Eastern Eye. She has a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from St. Paul’s College, Bengaluru, and brings over five years of experience in content creation, including two years in digital journalism. She covers stories across culture, lifestyle, travel, health, and technology, with a creative yet fact-driven approach to reporting. Known for her sensitivity towards human interest narratives, Gayathri’s storytelling often aims to inform, inspire, and empower. Her journey began as a layout designer and reporter for her college’s daily newsletter, where she also contributed short films and editorial features. Since then, she has worked with platforms like FWD Media, Pepper Content, and Petrons.com, where several of her interviews and features have gained spotlight recognition. Fluent in English, Malayalam, Tamil, and Hindi, she writes in English and Malayalam, continuing to explore inclusive, people-focused storytelling in the digital space.
Battlefield 6 launches on PlayStation 5 on 10 October 2025
Open beta weekends confirmed for 9–10 August and 14–17 August
Classic class system returns with subclass customisation
Emphasis on tactical map destruction and dynamic movement
Four large maps and multiple game modes confirmed at launch
Battlefield returns to its roots with modern warfare and evolving tactics
Electronic Arts has officially unveiled Battlefield 6, the latest entry in its flagship first-person shooter series, set in 2027. Taking inspiration from Battlefield 3 and Battlefield 4, the new game reintroduces the class system with enhanced customisation, expands tactical destruction, and adds fresh mechanics to keep firefights fast-paced and adaptive.
The title is scheduled for release on PlayStation 5 on 10 October, with open beta weekends taking place in August, giving players a chance to try out the new mechanics ahead of launch.
Revamped class system adds specialisation and progression
Battlefield 6 brings back the traditional class-based roles—Assault, Recon, Engineer, and Support—with a new “Training” system that introduces subclass perks and upgrades earned during matches.
Assault: Focused on mobility and regeneration, with access to combat stimulants and enhanced accuracy.
Recon: Long-range specialists with marking and suppression abilities. Headshots prevent enemy revives.
Engineer: Experts in vehicle warfare, armed with anti-armour training and repair tools.
Support: Offers revives, ammunition, and defensive cover, with bonuses to health recovery and team healing.
Players can further tailor their loadouts depending on whether the playlist uses “closed” (restricted to class-specific weapons) or “open” (customisable) rulesets.
Destruction becomes a strategic weapon
Destruction has long been a hallmark of the Battlefield franchise, and this entry takes it further. Developers have made map destruction more predictable to encourage tactical use.
Thin barriers and structures can be breached to create firing lines
Buildings can collapse during combat, altering the landscape mid-battle
Rubble can be used as improvised cover, encouraging adaptation on the fly
Creative Director Thomas Andersson noted that destruction is now an integral part of gameplay strategy, not just a visual effect.
Kinesthetic Combat enhances realism and player control
A new Kinesthetic Combat System introduces several enhancements to gunplay and movement, offering players more tactile control during firefights.
Corner peeking: Players can lean around corners for cover-based shooting
Teammate drag-and-revive: Downed allies can be pulled to safety before reviving
Vehicle clinging: Players can hitch rides on tanks and trucks even without a seat
Recoil learning: Guns visually tilt in the direction of recoil, helping players adjust their aim naturally
These features aim to make combat feel more intuitive and immersive.
Large-scale maps with diverse terrain and urban warfare
The initial release includes nine maps, four of which were previewed during early gameplay sessions. Each map includes “Combat Zones,” smaller areas within the main map tailored for specific game modes.
Liberation Peak: A mountainous region ideal for vehicles and snipers
Siege of Cairo: A dense urban environment with destructible buildings
Empire State: Infantry-only combat in Brooklyn’s tight alleys and streets
Multiple game modes to suit squad and large-scale play
Battlefield 6 features returning favourites and smaller-scale modes designed for faster skirmishes.
Conquest: Two large teams compete to control map sectors using infantry and vehicles
Breakthrough: Attackers attempt to push across multiple fronts, while defenders hold them back
Domination: Infantry battles over control points in tight, shifting encounters
Squad Deathmatch: Small squad-based skirmishes, with emphasis on class synergy and teamwork
Beta details and launch date
Players can get hands-on experience with Battlefield 6 during two open beta weekends—9–10 August and 14–17 August. The full game will launch on 10 October 2025 exclusively on PlayStation 5.
Tales of the Shire launches today on Xbox Series X|S
A cosy Hobbit life simulation game set in the Lord of the Rings universe
Early reviews are mixed, highlighting charm but noting technical and gameplay issues
Scores range from 4/10 to 8/10 across major publications
Currently holds an OpenCritic score of 64 and Metacritic score of 60
Tales of the Shire debuts with mixed critical reception
The Lord of the Rings: Tales of the Shire is now available on Xbox Series X and S, offering players a cosy, slice-of-life experience set in Middle-earth. Developed as a life simulator focusing on Hobbit village life, the game invites players to explore Bywater, cook meals, forage, and farm in a calm, storybook-style environment.
However, early reviews suggest the game may not fully deliver on its potential. Critics have highlighted a charming aesthetic and attention to Tolkien lore, but also pointed out technical issues, limited content, and unpolished mechanics.
- YouTube Tales of the Shire
What the critics are saying
CGMagazine – 8/10
Described Tales of the Shire as “a novel, yet not revolutionary” take on cosy games. The review praised the experience of Hobbit life, enjoyable gameplay loops, and use of the Tolkien licence, but flagged some issues with map design and progression.
TheSixthAxis – 7/10
Said the game will appeal to a specific audience – mainly fans of Animal Crossing and Stardew Valley who appreciate a relaxed pace. It noted the limited action elements but praised the world-building and tone.
PC Gamer – 6.7/10
Enjoyed the cooking and foraging systems, but found the fishing and farming to be underwhelming. Noted that there isn’t enough content to fill the in-game days meaningfully.
GamesRadar – 3/5
Called it a respectful tribute to Tolkien’s world, though not one with lasting appeal. The reviewer said they were glad to visit Bywater, but unlikely to return.
DualShockers – 5.5/10
Criticised the technical performance, especially crashes and the lack of autosave, which made gameplay feel stressful rather than relaxing.
Nintendo Life – 4/10
Found the concept promising but said the execution fell short, especially on the Switch version. Referred to it as a "slog" despite its peaceful premise.
Push Square – 4/10
Noted the strong concept and Tolkien charm, but said Tales of the Shire leans too heavily on its Lord of the Rings branding without offering standout gameplay.
Current scores and availability
As of now, Tales of the Shire holds an OpenCritic rating of 64 and a Metacritic score of 60. The game is available to play on Xbox Series X and S, with additional releases across other platforms.
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Highly anticipated collaboration between Reverse: 1999 and Assassin’s Creed
Reverse: 1999 x Assassin’s Creed collaboration event begins globally on 7 August 2025.
Ezio Auditore and Kassandra become playable via special banners; Alexios available for free.
Crossover introduces new story content, cosmetics, outfits, and themed gameplay.
Players can earn over 40 free gacha pulls, a 5-star character, and exclusive rewards.
The story spans Renaissance Florence and Ancient Greece, featuring key assassin figures.
Legendary assassins join Reverse: 1999
Bluepoch has officially confirmed the start date for its highly anticipated collaboration between Reverse: 1999 and Assassin’s Creed, which launches worldwide on 7 August 2025. The announcement was made during the game’s first-ever global livestream and marks a major crossover for both franchises.
The event introduces iconic assassins from Ubisoft’s long-running series into the world of Reverse: 1999, blending new playable characters, exclusive missions, themed cosmetics, and narrative expansions.
Playable assassins and limited-time banners
Players will be able to recruit two of Assassin’s Creed’s most recognised protagonists — Ezio Auditore da Firenze and Kassandra — via special time-limited gacha banners. Both characters have been integrated with unique combat mechanics designed to suit Reverse: 1999’s tactical gameplay.
Ezio will feature a flexible combat style, allowing players to switch between different weapons mid-battle. Kassandra, on the other hand, will offer a skill tree system that can be adjusted depending on the situation, introducing a strategic layer to her playstyle.
Meanwhile, Alexios, also from Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, will be available as a free 5-star character. Players can unlock him simply by completing in-game activities during the event period.
- YouTube YouTube/ Reverse: 1999
Free rewards and in-game content
The collaboration also comes with a range of free content and bonuses for all players:
Free 5-star assassin character: Unlock Alexios through gameplay.
Free monthly pass: Includes 2,700 Clear Drops (equivalent to 15 gacha pulls).
Free cosmetic outfit: A new outfit for the character APPLe will be available at no cost.
At least 43 free pulls: Available for each collaboration character banner.
Bonus prizes from banners: Additional copies of Ezio or Kassandra are granted after 100, 160, 220, and 280 pulls.
These rewards provide accessible entry points for players to engage with the collaboration, even without purchasing premium content.
Story expansion: From Florence to Athens
The Assassin’s Creed crossover will unfold in two story-driven phases:
Phase I: Players will travel to Renaissance-era Florence, teaming up with Ezio Auditore to navigate the political tensions and secret threats lurking in the shadows of Assassin’s Creed II’s setting.
Phase II: The narrative shifts to Ancient Greece, where the focus turns to the Acropolis of Athens. Here, players will join Kassandra and Alexios in a mission to disrupt the plans of the Cult of Kosmos, one of the main antagonist groups from Assassin’s Creed Odyssey.
Both phases aim to blend Reverse: 1999’s time-travelling theme with key storylines and settings from the Assassin’s Creed universe, offering players a deep dive into two historically rich eras — and a chance to fight alongside legendary assassins.
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LEGO has officially revealed a new collector’s set based on the Nintendo Game Boy
421-piece set includes buildable cartridges for Super Mario Land and Link’s Awakening
Launches 1 October for $59.99
Available to preorder from LEGO Store
Aimed at adult collectors and nostalgic fans
LEGO announces 1:1 replica of Nintendo Game Boy
LEGO has officially revealed a new collector’s set based on the Nintendo Game Boy. Designed for adult builders, the set recreates the iconic handheld console at near life-size using 421 bricks.
Due to launch on 1 October, the set is currently available for preorder from the LEGO Store and is priced at $59.99.
What’s included in the set
The set contains:
421 pieces
Age recommendation: 18+
Product Number: 72046
Dimensions: Over 14 cm (5.5 in) tall, 9 cm (3.5 in) wide, and 3 cm (1 in) deep
It includes a buildable Nintendo Game Boy console complete with realistic details like the D-pad, A and B buttons, Start and Select buttons, as well as contrast and volume dials. Three interchangeable screen panels allow you to switch between a classic Nintendo startup screen or gameplay visuals from Super Mario Land or The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening.
A nostalgic display piece
This Nintendo Game Boy LEGO set is not playable, nor does it feature sound or light elements. It is designed purely for display. A brick-built stand is included to showcase the console, along with a separate stand to display the unused cartridge.
LEGO categorises the set under its adult collection, appealing to fans who grew up with the original Game Boy during the 1990s.
Part of LEGO’s growing Nintendo range
The release continues LEGO’s collaboration with Nintendo. Previous retro-themed sets include:
The LEGO Nintendo Entertainment System (2020)
A pixelated Mario & Yoshi SNES-style set (2023)
Multiple LEGO Super Mario interactive playsets
LEGO Animal Crossing sets
The upcoming Great Deku Tree from Zelda
With the Nintendo Game Boy set, LEGO once again taps into gaming nostalgia, offering fans a way to celebrate one of the most recognisable consoles in gaming history.
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The game is confirmed for launch on 16 October 2025
Pokémon Legends: Z-A received a major gameplay update and October launch date.
A new stop-motion TV series is in development by Aardman Animations.
Pokémon Friends, a puzzle mini-game, launched across platforms.
Updates announced for Pokémon Go, Pokémon Unite, Sleep, Masters EX and the TCG.
New episodes of Pokémon Concierge coming to Netflix this September.
The latest Nintendo Pokémon Presents showcase, broadcast on 22 July 2025, delivered a range of announcements across the Pokémon franchise’s games, spin-offs, media, and upcoming events. The livestream covered new trailers, platform launches, mobile app features, and animated productions, giving fans an overview of what to expect throughout the rest of the year and beyond.
One of the main highlights was new footage from Pokémon Legends: Z-A, along with more details on upcoming releases such as Pokémon Champions, Pokémon Friends, and the Pokémon Trading Card Game: Mega Evolution. The presentation also gave attention to Netflix’s Pokémon Concierge, a new partnership with Aardman Animations, and the expanding PokéPark attraction in Japan.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A launches this October with new features
Pokémon Legends: Z-A, set in Lumiose City, continues to be the most anticipated mainline title in the franchise. The latest trailer provided a closer look at several gameplay features, including the new Z-A Royale battle system, character customisation options, a built-in photo mode, and the return of Mega Evolutions—this time including rogue forms. Players will also be able to customise the form of Furfrou. The game is confirmed for launch on 16 October 2025 and will be bundled with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
Pokémon Champions gets a new gameplay trailer
The showcase also featured another look at Pokémon Champions, an arena-based battle game scheduled to launch in 2026. The title will allow players to battle using Pokémon from both current rosters and previous generations, with compatibility via Pokémon Home. It will be available on Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android.
Pokémon Friends launches across all platforms
A new puzzle-based mini-game called Pokémon Friends was announced and released the same day. The game features block-sliding mechanics, rotating paths, and a "plush room" that players can decorate using digital plush toys unlocked through puzzles. Pokémon Friends is now available on Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android.
- YouTube YouTube/ The Official Pokémon YouTube channel
Aardman Animations creating new Pokémon TV show
In a new collaboration, Aardman Animations—the studio behind Wallace and Gromit—is working on a stop-motion Pokémon series titled Pokémon Tales: The Misadventures of Sirfetch’d and Pichu. The show will offer a comedic take on the Pokémon world from the creatures’ perspective and is expected to premiere in 2027.
New episodes of Pokémon Concierge confirmed for September
Netflix's animated series Pokémon Concierge will return with new episodes starting 4 September. The stop-motion series has been praised for its art style and storytelling, and a new trailer was shown during the presentation.
Pokémon Go Fest 2025 and Max Finale details
The Pokémon Go Fest 2025: Max Finale event will take place from 23 to 24 August, offering a chance to encounter Eternatus for the first time globally. The event includes back-to-back Max Raid battles, and a promotional code (GOFESTMAX) can be entered for the chance to catch a Gigantamax Pokémon.
Mobile game updates across the franchise
Several Pokémon mobile titles are receiving fresh content:
In Pokémon Masters EX, Carmine and Sinistcha will be featured in a new Poké Fair running from 29 July to 6 September.
Pokémon Café ReMix will include a Lapras in a sea captain outfit from 23 July to 21 August. Sea-themed decorations and crew outfits for Alolan Meowth, Totodile, and Minccino are also on the way.
Pokémon Sleep will introduce legendary Pokémon Raikou, Entei, and Suicune in September. A new location called Amber Canyon is launching in November.
Pokémon Unite is celebrating its fourth anniversary by adding Latios on 18 July and Latias on 8 August.
- YouTube YouTube/ The Official Pokémon YouTube channel
Pokémon Trading Card Game: Mega Evolution set to release in September
The Mega Evolution expansion for the Pokémon Trading Card Game is scheduled for release on 26 September 2025.
Pokémon World Championships heading to California
The 2025 Pokémon World Championships will take place from 15 to 17 August in Anaheim, California. Players will compete in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Pokémon Go, Pokémon Unite, and the Trading Card Game. A special commemorative promo card will be distributed to all participants.
PokéPark Kanto theme park attraction to open in Japan
A new permanent Pokémon outdoor attraction, PokéPark Kanto, is opening in Japan’s Yomiuriland amusement park in 2026. It will include two areas—Sedge Town and Pokémon Forest—offering interactive exhibits and themed environments. Ticket sales will begin later this year.
The Nintendo Pokémon Presents showcase highlighted an ambitious roadmap of games and media designed to keep fans engaged across platforms. From new console titles to mobile events and television spin-offs, the Pokémon universe is set to expand even further in the coming months.
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The showcase is widely expected to feature updates on Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Pokémon Presents returns on Tuesday, 22 July, with a 24-minute showcase.
This is the longest Pokémon Presents since February 2023.
The livestream will be available globally on The Pokémon Company’s official YouTube channel.
Fans expect updates on Pokémon Legends: Z-A, among other titles.
Pokémon Presents returns with extended runtime
The Pokémon Company has confirmed that the upcoming Pokémon Presents livestream, scheduled for Tuesday, 22 July, will run for 24 minutes, making it the longest presentation in two years.
According to Serebii.net’s Joe Merrick, the runtime was revealed via Pokémon Korea’s official YouTube channel. Based on his analysis, this makes the upcoming presentation the fourth-longest since the series began in June 2020, trailing only those in February 2023, August 2021, and August 2023.
How to watch Pokémon Presents on 22 July
The livestream will be broadcast on The Pokémon Company’s official YouTube channel and will begin at the following times:
6 am PDT
9 am EDT
2 pm BST
3 pm CEST
What to expect
While the longer runtime has fuelled speculation, fans are advised to manage expectations. The showcase is widely expected to feature updates on Pokémon Legends: Z-A, which was announced earlier this year and is slated for release in October.
Historically, Pokémon Presents events cover a wide range of topics beyond the mainline games, including updates on the anime series, Pokémon Unite, the trading card game, and mobile titles. Previous lengthy showcases have not always included major new game reveals.
Despite this, some fans remain hopeful for news about Generation 10 or classic titles coming to Nintendo Switch Online — though nothing has been officially hinted by The Pokémon Company.