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.
GTA 6 is now showing as available to download on Xbox Series X/S
The full game is not playable; the download is a placeholder
File size is 328.76MB, indicating no actual game content
GTA 6 launches on 26 May 2026 for Xbox Series X/S and PS5
GTA 6 Xbox listing causes fan frenzy
Grand Theft Auto VI has made a surprise appearance on the Microsoft Store, allowing Xbox Series X/S users to download preliminary files for the highly anticipated title, despite the game’s full release being nearly a year away.
The game, due to launch on 26 May 2026, has been officially listed on the store, sparking confusion and excitement among fans. Although the download is now live, the file size is just 328.76MB, far too small for any meaningful content or early access.
What does the GTA 6 Xbox download do?
Downloading GTA 6 on Xbox does not allow players to access any part of the game. Instead, it installs placeholder files in preparation for pre-loading. Attempting to launch it simply displays the game’s cover art briefly before returning users to the Xbox dashboard.
These files will eventually be replaced with the full game data shortly before launch, meaning those who download now will benefit from automatic installation when the game is officially released.
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Should you download it now?
There is no real benefit to downloading the files this early, especially given the limited storage available on most consoles. Players who are low on SSD space may prefer to wait until closer to the release date to install the game.
GTA 6 will be available on Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5 on 26 May 2026. Pre-orders have not yet opened.
PS5 version of STALKER 2: Heart of Chernobyl planned for release later this year
Game to be upgraded to Unreal Engine 5.5.4 for improved performance and stability
New gameplay features and balance tweaks also in development
GSC Game World has confirmed plans to deliver significant updates to STALKER 2: Heart of Chernobyl ahead of its upcoming PlayStation 5 release. The improvements, targeted for later this year, include a major engine upgrade and a host of gameplay additions.
Engine upgrade for better performance
The developer’s primary focus is upgrading the game to Unreal Engine 5.5.4. According to the studio’s statement on Steam, the update will bring new features, tools, and optimisations designed to enhance performance and stability. STALKER 2 faced performance issues following its launch on PC and Xbox Series X|S in November last year, though many have since been addressed.
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Planned gameplay enhancements
In addition to the engine upgrade, GSC Game World is working on a range of new content and refinements, including:
Exploration-based equipment
Gameplay balance adjustments
Additional open-world events
New missions
New weather type
‘Master’ difficulty mode
Extended day-night cycle
Loot system overhaul
Stamina and energy rework
Immersive display mode
User interface updates
Release outlook
The studio has not confirmed that all features will be completed by the end of 2025, noting that plans may change. However, the goal remains to implement most of the improvements alongside the PS5 release later this year.
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This is consistent with the studio’s historical approach
Mortal Kombat 1 surpasses 6.2 million sales, topping Street Fighter 6 and Tekken 8.
Major content support ended less than 21 months after launch.
Ed Boon says NetherRealm remains committed to refining game balance.
Fans express disappointment over shorter-than-promised support cycle.
MK1 tops sales chart for current generation fighters
Mortal Kombat 1 has secured its position as the best-selling fighting game of the current generation, selling over 6.2 million copies. The milestone places it ahead of Street Fighter 6, which reported five million sales two months ago, and Tekken 8, which reached three million sales five months ago.
The latest entry in the long-running franchise launched to strong sales and broad appeal, attracting both casual and competitive players. However, it still falls short of Mortal Kombat 11’s performance, which sold more than 15 million copies by 2022.
Shorter support window than expected
Despite its commercial success, major support for Mortal Kombat 1 ended in under 21 months, with NetherRealm announcing nearly three months ago that no further DLC characters or story expansions would be released.
This is consistent with the studio’s historical approach; its fighting games typically receive around 12 months of substantial updates. In contrast, Street Fighter 5 was supported for six years, while Tekken 7 enjoyed four years of major updates. Even Mortal Kombat 11 lasted two years before NetherRealm ceased major content development.
Prior to MK1’s release, series creator Ed Boon had indicated that the next title might enjoy a longer support cycle than its predecessor, but this ultimately did not materialise.
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Ongoing balance updates and community feedback
Although new content is no longer being developed, NetherRealm continues to release balance patches for MK1. In a recent post on social media, Boon said: “With over 6.2 million games sold, we’re still committed to refining MK1 to be our most balanced game,” alongside the latest patch notes.
He also invited community feedback, asking players which four fighters most needed buffs and which needed them least, as well as their preference for multiple smaller DLC packs versus fewer larger ones.
- YouTube YouTube/ MKIceAndFire
Mixed reaction from players
While some welcomed the continued balance improvements, many fans have expressed disappointment at the early conclusion of the game’s major support period, especially given previous suggestions it might last longer than Mortal Kombat 11.
The discussion has reignited hopes that the eventual Mortal Kombat 2 might receive a more extended post-launch development cycle.
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The update features Power Rangers, Halo Spartans, and a new insect invasion
Fortnite Chapter 6, Season 4 begins on Thursday, 7 August with the new “Shock and Awesome” theme.
The update features Power Rangers, Halo Spartans, and a new insect invasion.
Server downtime begins between 1:30 AM and 2:00 AM EDT.
Expected downtime is 2–6 hours before the update becomes available.
Exact release times vary by region (full list below).
Epic Games has confirmed that Fortnite Chapter 6, Season 4 – titled Shock and Awesome – will launch globally on Thursday, 7 August 2025, bringing a mix of new collaborations and original content.
The new season introduces a unique enemy threat in the form of an insect invasion, a first for the game. Past seasons have included zombies and mercenaries, but this is the first time players will encounter bug-based enemies. The update also features crossover content from Halo and Power Rangers, as part of the ongoing expansion of Fortnite’s multiverse.
Key collaborations: Halo, Power Rangers and Megazord
Among the featured additions this season are:
Halo Spartans (unlockable via the Battle Pass, with some content tied to Level 100).
Six Power Rangers, including the Green Ranger, with the core five available later via the in-game store.
Megazord, expected to appear later in the season, not at launch.
Speculation continues around further crossover possibilities, with some players anticipating tie-ins with Solo Leveling or Helldivers, though nothing has been officially confirmed.
Exact regional release times
Fortnite servers will go offline early on 7 August between 1:30 AM and 2:00 AM EDT, marking the end of Chapter 6, Season 3. Server downtime typically lasts between 2 and 6 hours. Based on that window, here are the estimated release times for Season 4:
North America (PDT): 3:00 AM – 8:00 AM
North America (EDT): 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Brazil (BRT): 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
United Kingdom (BST): 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Western Europe (CEST): 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Japan (JST): 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Australia (AEST): 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Players can expect access to the new season once the maintenance period concludes, though timing may vary depending on update size and server load.
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Classic class system returns with subclass customisation
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.
PlayStation Plus reveals three new games for August 2025: Lies of P, DayZ, and My Hero One’s Justice 2
All titles will be available to subscribers from 5 August
15th anniversary celebration includes free avatar pack featuring major PlayStation titles
Subscribers have until 4 August to claim July's games including Diablo IV
New PS Plus monthly games land on 5 August
Sony has announced the PlayStation Plus monthly game line-up for August 2025 as part of its ongoing 15th anniversary celebrations. Three titles will be available to subscribers starting 5 August: Lies of P, DayZ, and My Hero One’s Justice 2.
PS Plus first launched on 29 June 2010. Recent additions in July included Diablo IV, The King of Fighters XV, and Jusant.
Free avatar pack marks 15 years of PS Plus
In celebration of the platform's 15th anniversary, Sony is also offering PlayStation Plus members a set of free avatars starting 5 August. According to Adam Michel, PlayStation’s director of game services, the pack features designs from popular franchises such as Cyberpunk 2077, Hogwarts Legacy, God of War Ragnarök, Twisted Metal, and Diablo IV. The avatars will be available at no extra cost.
What’s included in the August line-up
Lies of P (PS5, PS4) – A dark action RPG inspired by Pinocchio, praised for its Soulslike gameplay.
DayZ (PS4) – A multiplayer survival title known for its open-world tension and influence on the battle royale genre.
My Hero One’s Justice 2 (PS4) – A 3D arena fighter based on the My Hero Academia anime series.
Deadline to claim July’s games
Subscribers have until 4 August to download the July 2025 PS Plus games — Diablo IV, The King of Fighters XV, and Jusant — before they are removed from the monthly rotation.