Stellar Blade studio Shift Up has set a remarkable precedent in the tech industry by gifting its employees a stunning package of cash bonuses and high-end Apple products, totaling over $4,000 per person. This gesture not only celebrates their hard work but also fosters a culture of appreciation and motivation within the company. With a cash bonus of 5 million ($3,400), Apple AirPods Max, and an Apple Watch, Shift Up demonstrates how investing in employee satisfaction can lead to sustained success.

Long-lost NES puzzle game Xcavator, initially developed in 1991 by Chris Oberth and never released, is making a comeback thanks to a collaboration between iam8bit and the Video Game History Foundation. This revival not only brings a piece of gaming history back to life but also highlights the ongoing challenges of preserving vintage games. Priced at $100, the 2025 release will feature an authentic NES cartridge and a detailed manual that chronicles the games troubled past and Oberths career.

In a recent live stream, Tetsuya Nomura, the creative director behind the beloved Final Fantasy series and Kingdom Hearts franchise, provided much-anticipated updates on both Kingdom Hearts 4 and Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3. Nomura reassured fans that both titles are on schedule and making significant progress, which is a relief for gamers eagerly awaiting new content from these iconic series. Kingdom Hearts 4 was first announced during the franchise’s 20th anniversary event in 2022, but details have been sparse since then.

The excitement is palpable among NTT IndyCar Series fans with the announcement of a new console game developed by iRacing Studios. This game marks a significant milestone as it will be the first IndyCar game since 2004, allowing fans to experience the thrill of racing on iconic tracks like Michigan International Speedway. With a release date set for next year, anticipation is building for what this game will offer. One of the most intriguing aspects of this new game is the involvement of Scott McLaughlin, a prominent driver who gained recognition during the iRacing events amid the COVID shutdown.

In a troubling turn of events, Build a Rocket Boy, the studio behind the much-anticipated game MindsEye, has reportedly initiated mass layoff proceedings that could impact over 100 employees. This news comes on the heels of a rocky game launch that has left many players dissatisfied, leading to a significant backlash on social media and a dismal Metacritic score. The studio’s decision to start a 45-day consultation process indicates that they are preparing for substantial workforce reductions, a move that reflects the challenges faced by developers in the competitive gaming landscape.