Sep 06, 18:00


GamersHeroes Saturday, September 6, 2025 4:44 PM
    

Get a glimpse into Kyle Crane's emotional struggles, the stunning open world of Castor Woods, and more with the second devblog for Techland Games' highly anticipated Dying Light: The Beast.

The post Dying Light: The Beast Second Devblog Released appeared first on GamersHeroes.


GamersHeroes Saturday, September 6, 2025 3:59 PM
    

High-speed action, titanic enemies, and intense narrative moments await with the launch of Marvelous USA's Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion.

The post Epic Sci-fi Adventure Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion Now Available appeared first on GamersHeroes.


GamersHeroes Saturday, September 6, 2025 1:04 PM
    

A dark and dusty road awaits when Moth Atlas and Midwest Games' 2D Soulslike action RPG Tombwater launches November 12 on Steam.

The post Wild West Soulslike Tombwater Launching November 12 appeared first on GamersHeroes.


PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 5:29 PM
    

Where are the Hollow Knight Silksong Mask Shard locations? An essential component to upgrading Hornet's health, miss a few and you'll make this tricky game that much more difficult. One or two won't make much of a difference, but you're sure to feel the sting if you jump into later areas with a minuscule health pool.

We're making every effort to provide a full list of Hollow Knight Silksong Mask Shard locations below. Paired with our extensive Hollow Knight Silksong map, you can start a fresh run without missing an upgrade, or easily backtrack through its world to find any you might have missed. The more health you have, the more forgiving Hollow Knight Silksong bosses will be, so it's well worth the extra effort.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Hollow Knight Silksong bosses, Hollow Knight Silksong system requirements, Hollow Knight Silksong map

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 5:00 PM
    

WWE legend Stephanie McMahon recently advertised a VPN service on her podcast, telling fans that they could use one to avoid paying for live WWE events. As you might imagine, ESPN, which uses Netflix to host its Premium Live Events, reportedly isn't too happy about it.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best VPN service, Best gaming VPN, VPN deals

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 5:54 PM
    

How do you unlock the Double Jump in Hollow Knight Silksong? You won't be the only one wondering where in Pharloom this must-have ability is tucked away. With so many traversal skills available to Hornet over the course of the game, you might be surprised to learn how much into your adventure Silksong hides its Double Jump ability. You'll also need to have unlocked several other traversal abilities before you can claim the Double Jump.

Despite being the sequel to one of the best PC games around, the new protagonist of Hollow Knight Silksong starts with very few abilities. If you're lost in its winding tunnels, check out our Hollow Knight Silksong map. And if you're struggling with a particular menace, our guide to the Hollow Knight Silksong bosses should provide all the help you need.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Hollow Knight Silksong bosses, Hollow Knight Silksong system requirements, Hollow Knight Silksong map

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 3:22 PM
    

September 6, 2025: Added two new free Bingo Blitz credits links.

What are the new free Bingo Blitz credits? You won't be playing much bingo without them, that's for sure. Even if you've exhausted your usual free credits in Bingo Blitz through login rewards and premium subscriptions, the secret to playing another round is through our Bingo Blitz credits links.

New Bingo Blitz free credits links work in much the same way as Monopoly Go dice links. One click and your account is automatically topped up with credits ready to be used on multiple rounds or one big blow-out session with multiple cards. The choice is yours.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Bingo Blitz credits, Best card games, Best PC board games

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 1:02 PM
    

September 6, 2025: New Tennis Zero codes are in, offering 40 spins and 100k yen.

What are the latest Tennis Zero codes? This new Roblox tennis title comes from the same main developer as several other big hitters on the platform. Should it follow the same sort of code release structure, we'll be slamming new Tennis Zero game codes into the usual location every weekend.

Interested in seeing where the Tennis Zero mechanics come from? Give some time to the developer's other sports game with these Basketball Zero codes. Need a rest? Try Mugen codes to get off to a flying start in the team's signature anime action title instead.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 12:56 PM
    

If you're a Manor Lords enthusiast, fellow medieval city builder and simulation game Noble Legacy is well worth keeping an eye on. It combines those period-based town construction and management elements with a more personal touch. The modular building tools feel closer to survival games such as The Forest or Valheim, and it keeps things cozier than the likes of Kingdom Come Deliverance 2. Now, in a hefty new roadmap, developer Studio 369 reveals that it's working on some of the community's most highly requested features, including multiplayer co-op, romance, and marriage.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best indie games, New PC games, Best PC games

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 12:32 PM
    

How do you save Bellhart in Silksong? This haunted town is a real spookfest, with all of its occupants suspended in the air by silken threads. You can't interact with anyone in Haunted Bellhart, nor can you enter any of their dwellings – yet. If you're desperate to save Bellhart from its curse, we've got all the answers.

You can expect to reach Haunted Bellhart right after you beat the Silksong Moorwing, or alternatively, after you ride the Flea Caravan to Greymoor. The objective to save Bellhart in Hollow Knight Silksong, The Threadspun Town, is automatically added to your log the moment you arrive. It's also mandatory to complete it before you can ring the giant bell in this area.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Hollow Knight Silksong bosses, Hollow Knight Silksong system requirements, Hollow Knight Silksong map

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:58 AM
    

September 6, 2025: Added a new DTI code that awards some neat accessories from the this year's RDC event.

What are the new Dress to Impress codes? Look no further if you want to strut your stuff on the catwalk with all the latest fashion accessories. The latest DTI game codes grant you the hottest cosmetics to add to your ensemble and create a stunning new look, and it's as simple as entering a code or two.

As the name suggests, Dress to Impress is all about fashion, collecting new clothes, and trying out different styles. Unlike most Roblox games, these DTI codes permanently unlock a set of items to add to your wardrobe. If you're looking for extra freebies, we also have codes for some of the other best Roblox games such as Blox Fruits codes to help you get an edge on the competition. Alternatively, you can check out our list of Dress to Impress outfit ideas.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:56 AM
    

September 6, 2025: Added a new Fisch code that gives "very silly skins" for the Snowburrow update.

What are the new Fisch codes? Promising the pinnacle of exploration and progression on Roblox, Fisch gets even better when you use the latest Fisch game codes for free rewards. After launching in mid-2024, the Stardew-inspired fishing game has become a juggernaut, amassing tens of millions of visits.

Just like when using Fishing Simulator codes, getting extra items or currency will make the Roblox angling experience far easier since you'll be able to access or buy upgrades much faster. That's even the case when trying out Meme Sea codes, too. This quick and easy Fisch guide will tell you about all the free rewards you can get so far.

Continue reading Fisch codes September 2025
MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:37 AM
    

September 6, 2025:  Checked around Europa for new Destiny Rising codes.

What are the latest Destiny Rising codes? Bungie's iconic looter shooter may have had its ups and downs, but there's no denying that Destiny has been one of the biggest names in gaming in the last decade. Now there's a new mobile spin-off. Our only question is, "What took you so long?"

Actually, that's one of two Destiny Rising questions we have. The other is, "Are there Destiny Rising promo codes?" As a NetEase RPG game, there are a few consumables that can really help you get ahead as you start another journey with a new Ghost companion, and we would assume some redemption codes will give you the boost you need.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Destiny Rising codes, Best multiplayer games, Best RPGs

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:34 AM
    

Risk of Rain 2 Alloyed Collective will introduce us to a new survivor that takes drones to the next level. The third expansion for the beloved roguelike looks to be righting the wrongs of Seekers of the Storm. Having revamped and relaunched the disappointing DLC to a much more positive reception, Gearbox has since brought back one of the game's co-creators to work on its next project, and added some of the most popular RoR 2 mod makers into the mix as well. Now, in a new dev diary, the team shows off the pack's debuting survivor, Operator, and I'm already eager to put them to the test.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best roguelike games, Best platform games, Best upcoming PC games

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:42 AM
    

September 6, 2025: Had a look around for new Steal a Brainrot codes for the Craft Machine update.

What are the latest Steal a Brainrot codes? Taking clear cues from Grow a Garden, this new Roblox experience dismisses the idea of patience, perseverance, and the rewards that follow, and instead, you steal the hard work of others. It's poetic in a way. So much so that we're not sure what to make of it. But freebies are freebies, and that's what Steal a Brainrot game codes are good for.

But players are loving it. While it's far from meeting the lofty concurrent player goals of its inspiration, like Grow a Garden codes or Blox Fruits codes, it's putting Brainrot Evolution codes on high alert. Already certain it's not the one for you? Consider trying out Blue Lock Rivals codes instead. That's a Roblox game with an idea that copycats are struggling to replicate.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:36 AM
    

September 6, 2025: The latest Blox Fruits code can still be used to get 2x XP during the Week 3 Lightning Update patch.

What are the new Blox Fruits codes? We've compiled a regularly updated list of all Roblox Blox Fruits game codes to redeem in-game freebies like XP boosts, free Beli, and stat resets for your pirate adventures. Need a boost to take on the increasingly tricky competition? We've got you covered.

Blox Fruits is one of the biggest Roblox games. But it can be challenging to find new free codes, so we've listed all the active Blox Fruits codes in 2025, including any Update 27 and Blox Bulletin codes, below. Once you're up to date on the new Blox Fruits codes, consider checking out our ultimate Blox Fruits guide or our in-depth Blox Fruits tier list for the current meta.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:31 AM
    

September 6, 2025: A new Acecraft code dropped yesterday to celebrate 150k followers, giving you plenty of free Diamonds and Power Cubes.

What are the latest Acecraft codes? If you're 12 stages deep into this mesmerizing fusion of Cuphead's aerial challenges and the roguelike upgrade cycle of Vampire Survivors, you won't want to miss these easy freebies.

New Acecraft codes can get you anything from tens of thousands of free Gold, to hundreds of Diamonds, and some handy Power Cubes. Remember, that's on top of the freebies you can claim from loads of other in-game menus. Want to get the most out of your other on-the-go service titles? Check out the latest Destiny Rising codes or Umamusume codes, too.


PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:34 AM
    

September 6, 2025: New Volleyball Legends codes for UPD 35 are worth a total of 15 Lucky Ability spins.

What are the new Volleyball Legends codes? Taking to the volleyball court in this Roblox adventure will have you itching to get ahead of the competition. Inspired by the Haikyuu anime, you'll participate in volleyball matches in teams of six and compete to be the best.

This unofficial, fan-made Roblox game isn't strictly affiliated with Haikyuu, but the imagery and references to the manga series are plain to see. Unlike the latest Blox Fruits codes or Dress to Impress codes, Haikyuu Legends codes won't get you currency, but they can have a direct effect on your skill level in the game, so take note.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:30 AM
    

September 6, 2025: Added a new Car Dealership Tycoon code worth 80k cash for the first September update.

What are the new Car Dealership Tycoon codes? Alongside the lobbies, murder mysteries, and shooters, Roblox is filled with every life simulator you could imagine, allowing you to live out your wildest dreams. If you've always wanted to run your own car dealership, test drive the fastest sports cars, and rake in that cash, then Foxzie's Car Dealership Tycoon is for you.

As with any new business, you need money to get off the ground. Sure, Car Dealership Tycoon hands out easy money, as you can earn it by simply driving around the Roblox experience, but you'll be driving for a while before you can add that new floor to the showroom. If you're a little light on customers, why not take a break from running your business with Anime Champions Simulator codes, Southwest Florida codes, and Blox Fruits codes instead?

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:08 AM
    

Where is the Silksong Hunter's March bench? We're not in Bone Bottom anymore, and Team Cherry has a painful reminder once you reach Hunter's March. This mid-game area is both perilous and punishing, and with no benches around, progress is painfully slow.

Not only does Hunter's March contain one of the most frustrating Silksong bosses, but surviving its relentless gauntlet of combat and platform game challenges can seem impossible with nowhere to save. Benches in Hollow Knight Silksong have always been a safe haven for battered insect warriors, but in this area of the Silksong map, all bets are off. Here's how to find and unlock a place to rest.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Hollow Knight Silksong bosses, Hollow Knight Silksong system requirements, Hollow Knight Silksong map

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:28 AM
    

September 6, 2025: Welcome Malame Amerale and get some easy free rewards with a new Brainrot Evolution code.

Want new Brainrot Evolution codes? We can help you keep up your dependency on the latest and greatest memes out there. Get free EXP Potions, coins, gems, and everything else with these Roblox Brainrot Evolution game codes and evolve your favorite brainrot character in record time.

If you're on the lookout for other Roblox adventures, check out the latest codes for other huge games on the platform. We're always hunting for new Blue Lock Rivals codes, Blox Fruits codes, and Meme Sea codes. We have well over 100 Roblox games we're always keeping a watchful eye on to ensure we have the latest freebies ready to go.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:27 AM
    

September 6, 2025: Get "some rewards" with the new Prospecting code for the first September update.

What are the new Prospecting codes? Whether you need a new pan with a finer filter or a simple luck boost, these Roblox Prospecting game codes should be able to help. This experience borrows from the simple gameplay loop of Fisch, Dig, and other foraging simulators, simply tasking you to find the diamond in the rough and the gold from the garbage.

Want to see where the idea likely stemmed from? Check out the latest Dig codes, the best Dig shovels, and the Dig Charms tier list to get off to a flying start in unearthing treasures. Prefer a little less manual labor? Pair the latest Fisch codes with the Fisch rods tier list to make it through the content from that game's prime time in the spotlight. For help on the latest Roblox hit, check out the latest Hunty Zombies codes.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 10:45 AM
    

September 6, 2025: Update your GaG stock trackers to include the Elder Wisp fairy's seeds, NPC birthdays, and more with the second half of the Fairy update.

What's the best Grow a Garden stock tracker Discord? These can save you from the mammoth task of logging into the game every 10 minutes to check for new seeds, tools, and pets. With stock changing several times per school period, the best way to avoid GoG fatigue is to semi-automate the process of panning for new plants.

New to the Roblox Grow a Garden trend? To jumpstart your allotment, take a look at the Grow a Garden codes and Grow a Garden value list. Both can help you avoid spending all your sheckles on crops that don't always deliver. We've ranked the best critters to set free on your farm in our Grow a Garden pets tier list, too.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 10:44 AM
    

September 6, 2025:  Added new Grow a Garden commands for the second week of the Fairy event.

What's the full list of all Grow a Garden admin console commands and cheats? If you have the required permissions to use them, typing in a few Grow a Garden commands can make you the talk of the town in no time at all. If you feel like becoming the Oprah of the Roblox world, read on.

If you're looking for GoG cheats and commands, we imagine you're having a rough time making your garden truly your own. If direction is what you need, check out our Grow a Garden pets tier list and Grow a Garden seeds tier list. And if there happen to be some working Grow a Garden codes right now, you'll score free seed packs and pets without resorting to boring hacks.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 10:57 AM
    

When is the next Grow a Garden update? Grow a Garden has quickly become the biggest Roblox game of all time with over two million active players. Fighting through the noise of anime RPGs and obbys, this tycoon game stands out in a field of its own thanks to its relaxing farming sim gameplay and idle progress.

Another reason for the Roblox game's immense popularity might be the creator's dedication to providing regular content updates. New Grow a Garden pets, seeds, mutations, and more are added every week, making it one of the best Roblox games around. If your garden is full of watermelons and bamboo right now, you might be wondering which new GaG seeds to grab during the next Grow a Garden update, so here's what we know so far

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 10:33 AM
    

September 6, 2025: Use the new Grow a Garden code to get an "iconic cosmetic" for your plot.

Need new Grow a Garden codes? Now confirmed as the biggest Roblox game of all time, Grow a Garden codes can help you, well… grow your garden! Get loads of free seed packs and other boosts by redeeming each new code before it expires.

Given it's a game you don't always have to pay close attention to - and by that we mean your garden continues to grow while you're offline - you can jump into other picks from our best Roblox games list while you wait for things to grow. For help in the latest Grow a Garden event, check out the list of all GaG prickly plants and fruits. For help in the other current Roblox hit, check our Hunty Zombies codes.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 10:39 AM
    

September 6, 2025: Added new mutation combos from the Fairy event.

What are the best Grow a Garden mutations? Whether you want to build a garden that's perfect to show off to friends, or one that's designed to just make money, there are Grow a Garden mutations you'll want, others you'll want to avoid, and you'll need to know the effects one mutation might have when paired with another.

Since Grow a Garden works while you're not even playing, check out the best Roblox games around for something else to play while things grow. If you're open to quick recommendations of the biggest games around, check out the latest Blox Fruits codes or Blue Lock Rivals codes. Of course, be sure to check for new Grow a Garden codes, too.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

PCGamesN Saturday, September 6, 2025 10:50 AM
    

September 6, 2025: Added the Phoenix, Shroomie, and Cardinal to the Grow a Garden pets tier list for the Fairy Garden Week 2 update.

What are the best Grow a Garden pets? With an ever-increasing number of pets and wild animals to have roaming your garden, it makes sense to question the best use of pet slots and which eggs to shell out your shackles on.

Need a free seed pack to use alongside the pets you have roaming around in the biggest Roblox game ever? Check out all of the Grow a Garden codes. For more help in making money in Grow a Garden, check out our Grow a Garden values list. You can also make your own recipes for the cooking event with our Grow a Garden recipes list. It explains the roles each crop can play in a dish.

MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best Roblox games, Roblox promo codes, Roblox music codes

Twinfinite Saturday, September 6, 2025 2:45 PM
    
Anime Eternal codes are just what you need to be like *insert currently popular Shonen character*.

Twinfinite Saturday, September 6, 2025 1:13 PM
    
Looking for the latest news on Tennis: Zero codes? We've got it all right here on Twinfinite!

Twinfinite Saturday, September 6, 2025 1:13 PM
    
The prospect of getting platinum is higher with Prospecting codes.

Twinfinite Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:40 AM
    
Assemble an army of fruits and veggies and prepare for an all-out assault! Use Garden Tower Defense codes to get the best plants in the game.

Twinfinite Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:36 AM
    
Yu Yu Hakusho: Slugfest codes for the powerful ghost squad!

Twinfinite Saturday, September 6, 2025 11:11 AM
    
Super Eleven codes are the best way to get free Yen!

Siliconera Saturday, September 6, 2025 3:00 PM
    

The Theater of Haruhi Suzumiya Feels Like Another SOS Brigade Romp

When The Theater of Haruhi Suzumiya came out to continue the adventures of her and the SOS Brigade members, it did so over 20 years after the original The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya light novel. Which puts things in a difficult position. Does the plot advance in a major way? How does it handle the incorporation of the two 2004 "Haruhi Suzumiya Theater" Sneaker stories? Nagaru Tanigawa went with a more casual sort of story involving the Haruhi Suzumiya characters we love enjoying the moment and being who we loved, rather than any major advancements, and I loved the design choice. 

Editor's Note: There will be mild spoilers for things that happen in The Theater of Haruhi Suzumiya light novel below.

The thing about The Theater of Haruhi Suzumiya is, due to its age and nature, it is difficult to pin down where it falls in the timeline. In a way, I think this works both for and against it. Someone who is more new to the series, but aware of what's going on, can enjoy Haruhi, Kyon, Yuki, Mikuru, and Itsuki engaging in silly and maybe occasionally unsettling situations that leave us questioning what's going on and even the nature of things. If you've followed the series for years, it does mean there is no major character development. I even found it difficult to pin when it might happen. It is absolutely during year 0 after The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, but I don't think it gets into any year 1 events. 

While major progression and development would be great, I feel like the execution of The Theater of Haruhi Suzumiya is part of what makes it so successful. The four acts tie together, but they also feel like individual sorts of adventures due to the isekai nature of it. Yes, these 2004 stories involve our five heroes heading to different worlds and solving the conditions to complete tasks in each one. Except failing seems to draw it out. Act One: Fantasy is set in a Dragon Quest sort of RPG. Act Two: Galaxy is more of a sci-fi space opera. Act 3: World Tour involves a spaghetti western type of take. Once we get to Act 4: Escape, it's a retelling of the Trojan War. Seeing the shifting conditions and Haruhi reacting to expected tropes is entertaining, as is seeing Kyon as the outsider, ordinary person "reacting." Yuki also gets to step up a lot, due to her actions in helping understand and solve situations. 

I also feel like the nature of the original Sneaker stories and this worldwide release holds up because it isn't tied down to an established point in the storyline. We can focus on what it's like when Haruhi and the SOS Brigade gets caught up trying to defeat the Demon Lord, in their own way, then rescuing kidnapped Fifth Separatist Empire royalty from space pirates, and Deputies Kyon and Itsuki working with the SOS Brigade bounty hunters Haruhi, Mikuru, and Yuki bringing peace to the wild west. I felt like the Fantasy and Galaxy arcs are the most "fun," due to the ability to get carried away and brevity. While things do start to work out and get more cohesive by Escape, I almost feel like it gets bogged down a bit then. 

However, the real incentive that comes with this release involves the preservation standpoint. No matter how much someone gets out of what ends up feeling like a side story, it's ensuring greater access to every part of the Haruhi Suzumiya storyline. This is an official localization of stories that were lost in time for years. Only certain people in Japan or those able to hunt down the originals or fan translations 

While in some ways I feel like the nature of The Theater of Haruhi Suzumiya is a bit awkward, that also means it still feels timeless and accessible. The isekai short stories feel unbound and like a means of us to have fun with the characters when things could be silly and more free. It also means anyone could jump in and enjoy, as long as they're familiar with the premise. Not to mention it is great to have it preserved. It's lacking in major developments and defined placement, but it doesn't need that to be a good time.

The Theater of Haruhi Suzumiya is available via Yen Press

The post The Theater of Haruhi Suzumiya Feels Like Another SOS Brigade Romp appeared first on Siliconera.


Destructoid Saturday, September 6, 2025 4:02 PM
    

Borderlands 4 Rafa

I've been playing Borderlands 4 for about a week now, and I'm happy to report that it's the best-playing game in the series thus far.

I've dug in with the Exo-Soldier Vault Hunter Rafa and his Peacebreaker Cannons Action Skill, and I've been having an absolute blast running around and using BL4's new movement tech that allows you to glide, dash, and double-jump your way around the battlefield, all while wreaking havoc with some wildly fun guns.

Borderlands 4 Vault Hunters
Image via 2K

The first few hours of BL4 are filled with leveling up, world-building the new location of Kairos, and picking up all sorts of randomly rolled weapons that have the potential to absolutely decimate enemies, or be almost useless depending on the perks you get. But that's where the fun lies in a looter shooter: shooting and looting until you find the best gun for you. And when the shooting feels as good as it does in this game, that's not a problem. I can safely say this feels like a massive upgrade and improvement from Borderlands 3.

One of the very few things holding back the game in its early hours, for me in my pre-release version I've been playing, is its performance on PC. I've experienced numerous crashes, hitching, stuttering, and framerate drops, and I've only been able to find consistent performance with the game running on Low settings. This felt especially bad in the game's opening areas where there's a good amount of foliage in the environment.

When I presented my performance issues to 2K PR, they relayed the message to me that I should play on Medium settings and to disable Upscaling. This did not fix my problems, unfortunately. I also downloaded new graphics drivers and tweaked the settings a bit more to get it to a playable state, but the performance has me concerned.

My PC is about three years old so it's admittedly getting close to the time to upgrade, but all of my specs say the game should run well enough on Medium settings. It does not. With the publisher's recommended settings for my PC specifically, the game still chugs, hitches, freezes for seconds at a time, and crashes, especially when moving quickly between areas on the new Digirunner vehicle.

All I want to do is go fast and slay enemies, but it's almost impossible to do so. On Low settings, the game is flat, drab, and borderline ugly, and it still struggles to maintain 60 FPS, which is very disappointing. BL4 retains the series' unique visual style on Unreal Engine 5, and the team says the engine allowed them to build a seamless world without loading screens between areas, but it appears to have come at the cost of performance.

BL4 Borderlands 4 psycho
Image via 2K

I'm not alone in my sentiment, either, so I'm confident in saying it's not just my specific PC that creates a cause for concern. Several co-workers and content creators have expressed their own distaste for how the game runs on PC.

I have high hopes that a day one patch will improve performance when the game drops next week on Sept. 12 (and Gearbox says that should be the case). If not day one, then hopefully soon after, because the game itself is a ton of fun to play solo or with friends, as one would come to expect from the looter shooter franchise.

Update on Sept. 6, 3pm CT: Two days ago, while playing Borderlands 4, my PC turned off and would not turn back on. I took it to a repair shop, which discovered the issue was with my power supply unit, which had died. I paid for the affected parts to be replaced and fixed, and got my PC back again today. Generously, 2K PR offered to send me a loaner PC overnight, which I declined as I knew I would be getting my own back this morning.

I'm happy to report that, since getting the PC back, the worst issues I was having with the game are no longer present, so it appears the PSU was causing the bulk of my problems. Plus, according to Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford, my PC is below the GPU and RAM minimum recommendations, so that could have contributed to the PSU's failure.

The company reiterated to me again that it is "aware of an issue with several video cards impacting game performance, and Gearbox is working on a fix targeting the Day 1 patch at launch."

For clarity, here are my PC specs and game settings:

  • OS: Windows 11
  • CPU: 12th Gen Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-12700K (3.60 GHz)
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070
  • RAM: 16 GB RAM
  • Borderlands 4 video settings: Low preset, 1080p resolution

And here are the recommended and minimum specs for BL4 on Steam:

BL4 Steam recommended specs
Screenshot by Destructoid

*Also corrected mention of "Gearbox PR" in the body and replaced it with the correct "2K PR."


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The post Borderlands 4 final impressions: While it's shaping up to be a potential new classic, poor PC performance is hampering a lot of my fun (UPDATE) appeared first on Destructoid.


Destructoid Saturday, September 6, 2025 3:34 PM
    

Map NPC Shakra singing next to Hornet in Silksong

Shakra is arguably the most important NPC to find in Hollow Knight Silksong, as locating her will help you get maps for all locations.

You first encounter her in The Marrow, where she offers you two maps, a Quill, and a Compass. Finding her in the first location is relatively easy, but it gets progressively harder as you dive deeper into more regions.

If you're having difficulty locating Shakra, this guide will be your best friend.

All Shakra and map store locations in Hollow Knight Silksong

The table below provides information about where you can find Shakra throughout Hollow Knight Silksong. I have also attached screenshots of her position to remove any confusion you might have.

Location Where to Find Important Items
The Marrow She is located at the end of the corridor from where you exit The Marrow and proceed towards Mosshome. Mosslands Map (40 Rosaries)
The Marrow Map (50 Rosaries)
Compass (70 Rosaries)
Deep Docks Go left from the Bench, and you come across a large room. Shakra is below the Bellway. Deep Docks Map (50 Rosaries)
Far Fields Reach to the east of Far Fields till you come across the room with air updrafts. Take the room right under the Bench room, and you'll find Shakra. Far Fields Map (50 Rosaries)
Greymoor Head right from where you exit Far Fields, and you'll find Shakra. Greymoor Map (50 Rosaries)
Shellwood Climb down from the first bench room and head left. There's a point where the map goes top and lets you get the Cling Grip ability. You'll meet Shakra before that. Bellhart Map (40 Rosaries)
Shllwood Map (70 Rosaries)
Wormways Enter Wormways from Shellwood, and keep going left, and then down. You'll find a small opening that requires you to dash inside. You'll find Shakra here, and you can trace her from her songs. Wormways Map (70 Rosaries)
Hunter's March Hunter's March is a hard area to traverse, but you will find Shakra on the way to the Chapel of the Beast. Hunter's March Map (70 Roasries)

The Marrow

Shakra location in The Marrow in Hollow Knight Silksong
Screenshot by Destructoid

Deep Docks

Shakra location in Deep Docks in Hollow Knight Silksong
Screenshot by Destructoid

Far Fields

Shakra location in Far Fields in Hollow Knight Silksong
Screenshot by Destructoid

Greymoor

Shakra location in Greymoor in Hollow Knight Silksong
Screenshot by Destructoid

Hunter's March

Shakra location in Hunter's March in Hollow Knight Silksong
Screenshot by Destructoid

Wormways

Shakra location in The Marrow in Hollow Knight Silksong
Screenshot by Destructoid

Shellwood

Shakra location in Shellwood in Hollow Knight Silksong
Screenshot by Destructoid

That's where you can find Shakra across all the different regions on your adventure.


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The post All Shakra locations in Hollow Knight Silksong appeared first on Destructoid.


Destructoid Saturday, September 6, 2025 3:16 PM
    

Snake vs Monkey Gear Solid in the Snake Vs Monkey minigame

Hideo Kojima didn't directly work on Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, but his DNA still haunts the entire game, and it wouldn't be a Kojima-related game without a series of secrets and Easter eggs memorable enough to justify a playthrough. Let's hunt them all.

Guy Savage and Snake vs. Monkey

Even if you don't consider the original or the remake the best game in the series, there's no denying its crown when it comes to minigames. The most famous one of the bunch is Snake vs Monkey, which sees Snake using his sneaking abilities to catch not monkeys, but apes, in the closest we'll probably ever get to an Ape Escape video game in the current gen.

In the Xbox version of Delta, Snake will face off against Bomberman instead of the Apes, but the game remains the same. The original MGS3 required players to beat the game's story mode to unlock this mini game, but MGS Delta has it accessible right from the start.

Snake and an ape in Snake vs Monkey
Screenshot by Destructoid

The other mini game, however, is trickier to unlock. You can play Guy Savage, an original Devil May Cry-inspired hack-and-slash mini game, by saving and reloading when Snake is in prison in Groznyj Grad, or after beating the story mode.

https://youtu.be/1m0fnaLwXgw

Konami Code

The famed Konami Code has been a staple in most of Konami's games. Delta doesn't break the mold, but there's a twist.

During The End's boss fight in the original MGS3, inputting Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, Square, and Triangle would reveal his position on the map. Delta, however, just scolds players for cheating. Luckily, many of the Easter eggs remain.

The many ways to mess with The End

The End and his parrot in MGS Delta: Snake Eater
Screenshot by Destructoid

Hideo Kojima initially wanted to make the fight against The End something akin to a real-life sniper encounter, a mandatory weeklong affair that would prove the most infamously difficult battle ever. This boss fight ended up much easier than Kojima had originally envisioned, and it can be even easier because there are so many ways to break The End entirely:

Players can use the sniper rifle to shoot him in the head when he's being carried in his wheelchair into the warehouse before the fight.

Or, move the system clock seven days into the future to cause him to die from old age. Alternatively, players can save while fighting The End, then only come back to their save a week later. Just be warned that saving and loading that file before 7 days have passed will cause The End to sneak up on Snake and capture him.

Alternatively, players can shoot The End's pet parrot, which will cause the fight to become more difficult.

Boss secrets

Some other bosses in the game also feature alternative ways to beat, like The Fear, which can be defeated through the power of spoiled food.

The Sorrow's entire boss encounter is an Easter egg of sorts, one which works as a commentary on Snake's misdeeds. Every enemy that Snake encounters in that battle is an enemy Snake has killed. Going on a non-lethal run will shorten the encounter, as no ghosts will spawn.

Volgin makes for one of the toughest boss battles in the game, but players can use a cold tactic to gain the upper hand. By seeing Snake disguised as Raikov, Volgin's lover, Volgin will be stunned in mourning and leave himself open to attack.

Snake's secrets

Snake's cure menu in Delta
Screenshot by Destructoid

There are secret frequencies players can call to stop the alarm. Just interrogate the guards until they spill the beans on their area's code.

For some reason, players can have Snake puking just out of malice. Just open the cure menu and use your analog stick to spin Snake around for a while. No, this is not a joke, and spinning Snake over a dozen times will probably cause him to puke in-game once you leave the menu.

Eva's Easter eggs

By the end of the game, we learn that Eva was secretly loyal to a then still-undisclosed party. Players can't learn about her true allegiance during the game, but there are a few Easter eggs pointing to her not being who she says she is.

Putting Eva to sleep with a tranquilizer will have her talking about Snake in a pretty suggestive manner.

If players try to interrogate Eva by the end of the game, she'll give players a CONTRA code. What can this mean?

References to other Metal Gear Solid titles

The game features photos of Huey Emmerich, the father of Hal "Otacon" Emmerich, and the creator of the original Metal Gear. These references didn't exist in the original MGS3, as Huey was only created for MGSV.

There are countless references to Raiden, the infamous main character from the second part of Metal Gear Solid 2, and most of them are pretty hilarious. Players can find the first one by stating they "Like MGS2" in the menu right before the start of the game.

Secret cutscenes

https://youtu.be/ZzI_ApxAMvs

Snake can enter first-person view and allow players to witness secret details during some cutscenes. Enter first-person by pressing R1 when:

  • The Boss leaves on horseback to get the Nuke
  • As Ocelot exits the torture room
  • As Snake says, "it's finally over", after beating Volgin
  • When The Boss's horse reacts to her death
  • In the ending cutscene, when Snake is offered a handshake, and when Snake salutes The Boss's grave

Time paradoxes

Ocelot's death triggers a time paradox in Metal Gear Solid Delta
Screenshot by Destructoid

Hideo Kojima is a careful guardian of the timeline. Players who dare interfere with it by, for example, killing characters they know will be alive in the future MGS chronology, be warned. This will result in a specific mission failure message that will then morph into the message "Time Paradox" on the screen. Do not mess with the timeline, Snake.

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The post All Easter eggs and secrets in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater appeared first on Destructoid.


Destructoid Saturday, September 6, 2025 1:52 PM
    

Milinkovic-Savic as one of the best players to use in EA FC 25 Driven Prodigy Evolution

The Strongest Zebra Evolution is live in EA FC 25 with a unique chance to improve your backline during Pre-Season.

If you're missing 99-rated defensive items in your Ultimate Team squad, this is your best evolution. Your chosen item will get upgraded stats, new playstyles, and roles, and this guide will narrow down the best possible choices.

EA FC 25 The Strongest Zebra Evolution requirements

Here are the requirements of The Strongest Zebra Evolution in EA FC 25.

  • Overall: Max 97
  • Position: CB
  • PlayStyle: Max 10
  • PlayStyle+: Max 5

EA FC 25 The Strongest Zebra Evolution upgrades

There are five levels of upgrades, and here are the requirements.

Level 1 upgrades

  • Overall: +9
  • Pace: +10|93
  • Interceptions: +20
  • Reactions: +15|94
  • Stamina: +20|95
  • PlayStyles+: Jockey|5
  • PlayStyles: Anticipate|7

Level 2 upgrades

  • Heading Acc.: +30|98
  • Def. Aware: +25|98
  • Composure: +15|94
  • PlayStyles+: Anticipate|5
  • PlayStyles: Intercept|7
  • Roles: Defender++

Level 3 upgrades

  • Jumping: +20|96
  • Slide Tackle: +20
  • PlayStyles+: Intercept|5
  • PlayStyles: Bruiser, Quick Step|7
  • Roles: Stopper++

Level 4 upgrades

  • Passing: +10|92
  • Stand Tackle: +20
  • Weak Foot: +4
  • PlayStyles+: Long Ball Pass|5
  • PlayStyles: Block, Pinged Pass|7

Level 5 upgrades

  • Aggression: +12|95
  • Strength: +20|96
  • PlayStyles+: Aerial|5
  • PlayStyles: Power Header|7
  • Roles: Ball-Playing Defender++

Level 1 upgrade conditions

  • Play 2 matches in any mode using your active EVO player in game.

Level 2 upgrade conditions

  • Win 1 match in any mode using your active EVO player in game.

Level 3 upgrade conditions

  • Play 2 matches in Rush, Rivals, Champions, or Squad Battles on Min. Semi-Pro using your active EVO player in game.

Level 4 upgrade conditions

  • Play 2 matches in Rush, Rivals, Champions, or Squad Battles on Min. Semi-Pro using your active EVO player in game.

Level 5 upgrade conditions

  • Win 1 match in Rush, Rivals, Champions, or Squad Battles on Min. Semi-Pro using your active EVO player in game.

Best players to use in The Strongest Zebra Evolution

Here are some of the best players to use in this evolution.

  • Isaak Toure FUTTIES
  • Aurelien Tchouameni FUTTIES
  • Dan Burn TOTS HM
  • Kyle Walker FUTTIES
  • Vanja Milkinkovic-Savic Flashback
  • Tosin Adarabioyo RTTF
  • Jaap Stam FUTTIES
  • Harry Maguire FUTTIES

Your club's evo chain candidates can provide unique solutions that are exclusive to your Ultimate Team squad.


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The post Best players for the EA FC 25 The Strongest Zebra Evolution appeared first on Destructoid.


Destructoid Saturday, September 6, 2025 1:10 PM
    

A cosmic battle occurring in Stellaris.

Paradox Interactive has announced a new DLC for Stellaris, one of the company's flagship grand strategy games. Coming on Sept. 22, Shadow of the Shroud is going to expand deep-space exploration, particularly focusing on Psionic abilities and paths, communing with Shrouds, and roleplaying as the Emperor of Mankind.

Shadows of the Shroud is the next $20 DLC for Stellaris, which aims to expand on one of the game's most unique mechanics that fits more with the fantasy genre than science fiction. That is, as the title suggests, the Shroud, an anomalous dimension you can explore in the game that is tied to the Psionicpath, i.e., space magic. Breaching the Shroud is going to be more complex now, with deeper story and gameplay elements, which will also tie in with Psionic abilities your civilization possesses.

"Powers, knowledge, and wealth beyond measure are yours for the taking," the DLC's Steam page says.

A megastructure built around a strange cosmic anomaly in Stellaris.
Shadows of the Shroud makes the universe weirder, darker, and more unpredictable. Image via Paradox Interactive

But focusing on just one segment of the game would not be the Stellaris way of things, as DLCs and updates for this game tend to be a bit bigger than usual.

Thus, Shadows of the Shroud, aside from expanding deep-space Psionic anomalies and powers, will also bring in new government types, civics, origins, events, ships, portraits, and so on, giving everyone, and not just Imperium roleplayers, a lot of new stuff to play with.

Stellaris remains one of Paradox's best games, with some of the greatest space exploration I have ever encountered. Though a grand strategy at heart, Stellaris' core gameplay, especially in the early game, revolves heavily around exploring space, encountering alien creatures and races, finding ancient artifacts, surveying uncivilized planets, and probing into the depths of the galaxy whichever way you see fit.

With Shadows of the Shroud, exploring the darkest corners of the cosmos becomes ever more rewarding, and I cannot wait to give this a try.


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The post Stellaris' new DLC will make the best space exploration game even better appeared first on Destructoid.


Destructoid Saturday, September 6, 2025 1:03 PM
    

Promo image for Black Ops 7

In yet another attempt to nostalgia-bait people into paying $100 for the current thing, Treyarch has announced they will be remastering even more Black Ops 2 maps than before. Activision's CoD outputs have relied on regurgitating formulas for years, but it seems they're upping the ante with this one.

According to Charlie Intel, Black Ops 7 will reportedly feature more Black Ops 2 remastered maps, including those that weren't remastered for any of the previous Black Ops titles. This came from a Treyarch developer's tease during a Q&A segment, which quite clearly indicated "new" BO2 maps are on their way to BO7.

The reason behind this, though not stated, is also pretty clear: Black Ops 7 needs to sell well, especially because of that one thing called Battlefield 6 coming out at just about the same time.

https://twitter.com/charlieINTEL/status/1964011983465812191

Instead of thinking out of the box and trying to understand what made those old map designs work, filtering that through modern innovations, and creating new and improved inspired levels, Activision is just throwing the nostalgia bait into the wild and hoping people will bite. As one reply under the Charlie Intel tweet said, "The level of desperation is strong with this one," and I wholeheartedly agree.

Making new content and maps that build on the foundations of the greats is simply too far-fetched of an idea for modern AAA corporate gaming, where it's better to chase trends or do that one thing that worked over and over again ad nauseam.

And there hasn't ever been a worse offender in this case than Call of Duty, who, after trying to imitate Fortnite and its collaborations for the better part of a decade, is now supposedly "keeping it real and gritty," no doubt inspired by the abject fear produced by Battlefield 6 (who, mind you, is also nostalgia-baiting, but with one single map).

I mean, just look at the game's name—Black Ops Seven. Treyarch has been making nothing but Black Ops since the first one came out... 15 years ago! And they continue to remake maps from a 2012 title, trying hopelessly to recreate its success instead of using it as a foundation for something greater.

Please, Activision, just make something new.


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The post Black Ops 7 to include more remastered BO2 maps—because making good new ones is too hard for modern AAA appeared first on Destructoid.


Destructoid Saturday, September 6, 2025 12:40 PM
    

Hornet standing next to Pinmaster Plinney in Hollow Knight: Silksong

Hollow Knight Silksong and its predecessor might be single-player experiences at heart, but it becomes twice the fun when you're part of a community. While finding such a place can be tricky, the official Discord of Team Cherry acts as the perfect solution.

The official Discord has been in operation since the first game was released back in 2017, and has evolved since. The same server acts as a mutual community for both games, and it can be beneficial. Neither Hollow Knight nor Silksong is an "easy" game, and having more information can help you clear the story quicker.

That's where the official server and its channels will be of much use to you.

How to join the official Hollow Knight Discord server?

Joining the server is simple, easy, and free. You'll need a Discord account to begin the process. If you're on a PC, you can either use the browser or the app version. If you're on a mobile, it's better to download the app. Once done, you can then join the server by clicking here and accepting the invite.

The first task is to customize your experience based on your preferences. You can choose to follow either Silksong/Hollow Knight-related content or opt for both. The next task is to accept the rules, and this will open your access to all the available channels.

Official Hollow Knight Discord server channels
Screenshot by Destructoid

There are general discussion channels for both Hollow Knight and Silksong, where you can chat about the games and anything related to them. If you're stuck in Silksong, you can always get help from the #ss-help channel, where other players are more than happy to help you. The same option is also available for the first game if you're interested in that.

A few official channels, like server-announcements, are pretty important if you want to stay on top of the updates. These channels are used by Team Cherry to share vital pieces of information with the community. The server-and-faq channel will also help to clear basic doubts that you might have.

Finally, there are several voice chat channels, which are great places for you to interact with and talk about your in-game experiences. The official language is English due to the global nature of the server. You can join and share your experiences with fellow community members. Alternatively, you can always find someone streaming their gameplay as well.


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The post Official Hollow Knight Discord link appeared first on Destructoid.


Gaming Instincts – Next-Generation of Video Game Journalism Saturday, September 6, 2025 4:11 PM

Gaming Instincts – Next-Generation of Video Game Journalism Saturday, September 6, 2025 3:40 PM

Gaming Instincts – Next-Generation of Video Game Journalism Saturday, September 6, 2025 3:16 PM

iDev Games Feed Saturday, September 6, 2025 1:01 PM
     Retribution - a two player internet browser card game...