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.
A two-hour demo of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is now available via PlayStation Plus Premium
The trial includes the first major boss battle and open-world exploration
The game launched in 2023 as a follow-up to Spider-Man and Miles Morales
Other demos, including The Last of Us Part II Remastered, are also available
Access is limited to PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers
Spider-Man sequel available to try for free
Sony is offering a free timed trial of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 through its PlayStation Plus Premium subscription service. The demo allows players to experience up to two hours of gameplay, including early story missions and free-roaming within New York City.
The game launched in 2023 as the third entry in Insomniac’s Spider-Man series, following the original Marvel’s Spider-Man and the Miles Morales spin-off. While praised for visual improvements and expanded traversal options, the sequel received mixed feedback regarding its story and gameplay similarity to its predecessors.
What’s included in the demo?
The demo reportedly covers the opening mission, which features a cinematic battle against Sandman. Players can also explore the city and test new features like the web-wings, allowing faster and more dynamic travel across Manhattan.
This trial is intended to give players a strong introduction to the core gameplay and narrative without requiring a full purchase. Saved progress from the demo may carry over if users choose to buy the full version later.
Other limited-time demos available
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is not the only title offering a trial through PlayStation Plus Premium. Subscribers can also access time-limited demos of several other major games, including The Last of Us Part II Remastered.
The re-release of The Last of Us Part II is currently being promoted as it marks its fifth anniversary in 2024. Both demos are accessible through the PlayStation Store for Premium-tier subscribers.
Premium subscription offers expanding content
PlayStation Plus Premium is the highest tier of Sony’s subscription service. While more expensive than the Essential and Extra tiers, it includes access to game trials, cloud streaming, and a broader library of classic titles.
For those undecided about Spider-Man 2, the demo offers a low-risk opportunity to explore the game and make an informed choice before buying.
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.
— (@)
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.
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A cosy Hobbit life simulation game set in the Lord of the Rings universe
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.