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The Outerhaven •

Nintendo’s $80 Games Set a Dangerous Precedent—Are Higher Prices the New Normal?

It’s finally happened. Nintendo has revealed its Nintendo Switch 2, the company’s latest-generation gaming console, complete with a $450 and $500 (bundled) price tag—assuming the damned tax tariffs don’t drive the price up even more. But I’m not here to talk about console prices. That has always been a concern, and they seem to get more expensive with each release. Instead, let’s talk about something more pressing: the cost of games. Now, this is something that, to me, is even more concerning. R...
The Outerhaven •

Mario Kart World Announced Exclusively for Switch 2

During the Nintendo Direct that’s all about the Nintendo 2 Switch, Nintendo revealed that Mario Kart World will be a launch title for the system. While Nintendo hasn’t said much about the game, what it did say and show off is that Mario Kart World is basically a Mario Kart x Forza Horizon title. And honestly, I’m fine with this. This story is developing… During the Nintendo Direct that’s all about the Nintendo 2 Switch, Nintendo revealed that Mario Kart World will be a launch title for the syst...
The Outerhaven •

Nintendo Switch 2 Specs and Release Date Revealed, Priced at $450

During the Nintedo Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo finally revealed the specs for the Nintendo 2, along with a release date of June 5th, 2025. **Update** Nintendo sent us an email regarding the price of the Nintendo Switch 2, and it will be priced at $450! Pre-orders for the Nintendo switch 2 will go live as of April 9th, 2025. While Nintendo was forthcoming with the specs, what it has shown is a leap from the original Switch. With remarkable hardware enhancements and thrilling new features, this next...
The Outerhaven •

FromSoftware’s Duskbloods Is a Nintendo Switch 2 Exclusive with Shades of Bloodborne

During the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo and FromSoftware unveiled their latest creation: Duskbloods. From the studio behind Dark Souls, Elden Ring, and Armored Core, this new title is already making waves. Slated for release in 2026 as a Switch 2 exclusive, Duskbloods has fans buzzing with excitement, especially since it seems to carry echoes of Bloodborne—an intriguing nod for longtime devotees. Check out the Duskbloods trailer below. After the reveal, more information about the game was...
The Outerhaven •

FromSoftware Unveils the Iron Eye, the Next Nightfarer in Elden Ring Nightreign

On a day when skepticism runs high, Bandai Namco and FromSoftware chose to reveal the next Nightfarer, the Iron Eye, a playable character in the upcoming roguelike Soulslike title, Elden Ring Nightreign. This new class specializes in ranged combat, excelling with bows and dexterity-based weapons. Beyond dealing damage from a distance, the Iron Eye also brings valuable utility to a party, with the unique ability to revive downed allies using ranged attacks. It’s an intriguing addition, and just f...
The Outerhaven •

Serafim S3 Cloud Controller Review – Smartphone Controller Contender

I’ll be honest—when it comes to mobile gaming, I lean more toward the Steam Deck and ROG Ally. But I won’t deny that playing on a smartphone has a certain charm, including access to some of the best controllers on the market. So, when Serafim showcased its Serafim S3 Cloud Gaming Controller at CES 2025, I wanted to get my hands on it outside of a controlled setting. That’s when Serafim was gracious enough to send one out for review, and I’ve been putting it through its paces. I’m finally ready t...
The Outerhaven •

Monster Hunter Wilds Crosses 10 Million Copies Sold

Earlier in March 2025, Capcom revealed that Monster Hunter Wilds had sold over 8 million copies in three days. Now, with March 2025 at a close, Capcom has announced that its flagship monster-hunting title has surpassed 10 million copies. While that may suggest the momentum is slowing down, I expect things to pick up with the first update for Monster Hunter Wilds, which will introduce a returning monster, Mizutsune, and the game’s first Arch-tempered hunt for Rey Dau. The Grand Hub, a new in-game...
The Outerhaven •

Is ASUS Teasing the ROG Ally 2 or is this an Elaborate April Fools’ Joke

While I am not a fan of reporting on things that border on being legit and possibly a hoax—thanks to how close we are to April Fools’ Day—I feel I wouldn’t be doing my duty if I didn’t do so. Just keep in mind that tomorrow is a day for trying to fool people, and sometimes, they start early. Today, on the ROG Ally X social media account, a cute but short video was shown featuring the Republic of Gamers mascot, Omni, working on an updated version of the ASUS ROG Ally. This new version is said to...
The Outerhaven •

Spectator Mode Ep. 182 – Game Informer Returns, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Ubisoft Drama

On Spectator Mode Podcast episode 182, we dive into the latest gaming buzz, starting with our excitement about heading back to Summer Game Fest before diving into the big news—Game Informer is back! Dotemu and Tribute Games also made headlines with their reveal of Marvel Cosmic Invasion, while The First Berserker: Khazan left Keith seriously impressed. We reviewed Dark Deity 2 and even had an insightful interview with MASUMI. The episode also featured a deep dive into Assassin’s Creed Shadows, d...
The Outerhaven •

Yuya Tokuda Shares Exciting Update on Monster Hunter Wilds After Surpassing 10 Million Sales

Earlier today, I reported on Monster Hunter Wilds surpassing 10 million copies sold, and to follow that up, Yuya Tokuda, the director of Monster Hunter Wilds, had a few things to say about that. “We are very happy that so many people around the world are playing the game,” said Yuya Tokuda. “To commemorate the 10 million milestone, we are planning to release a free item pack for the community, so please look forward to more information. We would also like to thank you for the many comments, thou...
The Outerhaven •

Playable Crimson Desert Demo at PAX East 2025

Get ready, gamers! PAX East 2025 is shaping up to be the ultimate gaming event of the year, and the first wave of exhibitors has just been revealed! From May 8 to May 11, 2025, the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center will transform into a paradise for gamers, featuring an electrifying lineup of more than 280 developers, publishers, and industry giants. If you live on the East Coast, this is the gaming experience that you don’t want to miss. This year’s show is packed with big names that are su...
The Outerhaven •

Tribute and Dotemu Reveal Beat ‘Em Up MARVEL Cosmic Invasion

Tribute Games (TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge) is teaming up with Dotemu (Streets of Rage 4) and MARVEL Games to unleash an explosive new beat ’em up called MARVEL Cosmic Invasion! Get ready for an all-out galactic brawl as the immortal Super Villain Annihilus launches a devastating assault across the universe. With the deadly Annihilation Wave threatening all life, Earth’s mightiest heroes and cosmic warriors must join forces for an action-packed battle spanning from the streets of New York City to t...
The Outerhaven •

Path of Exile 2: Dawn of the Hunt Changes Everything You Thought You Knew About the Game

A new era of carnage begins in Path of Exile 2 with the release of Dawn of the Hunt on April 4 at 12 PM PT/3 PM ET. This expansion for Path of the Exile 2 brings fresh challenges, powerful new abilities, and significant endgame overhauls that promise to redefine the experience for both new and veteran players. While everyone will be finding out about this new expansion very soon, Grinding Gear Games have myself along with a few others an early look at what they have in store… and damn if I can’t...
The Outerhaven •

The Triple-i Initiative Returns on April 10, 2025

Indie game fans, get ready! The Triple-i Initiative is back for another year, promising a showcase packed with exciting announcements from some of the most innovative developers in the industry. This year’s event will deliver 45 minutes of world premieres, exclusive gameplay reveals, launch dates, demo releases, and more. The Triple-i Initiative will be broadcast on YouTube, Twitch, IGN, Gamespot, and Steam on April 10, 2025, at 9 AM PT/ 12 PM ET. If last year’s Triple-i Initiative was any indic...
The Outerhaven •

Monster Hunter Wilds Update 1 Adds Mizutsune, New Quests & Grand Hub, and More

Capcom recently hosted its Monster Hunter Wilds showcase, and after watching it, it definitely feels like Capcom really wanted to release all of this with the game but ran out of time. Regardless, we’re finally getting them, and I can’t wait. Starting on April 4th, 2025, the first title update for Monster Hunter Wilds will be released and will introduce the first additional monster, Mizutsune. We got to see this beast in action and it feels like it’s going to be quite the pain in the butt, but I...
The Outerhaven •

MASUMI Reflects on Her Video Game Debut in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

The Outerhaven: Hello MASUMI. Thanks for taking some time out of your busy schedule to speak with us. More than anything, how are you feeling right now? MASUMI: Thank YOU for your time. I’m doing great! but also feeling slightly overwhelmed and relieved at the same time. The Outerhaven: You’ve been an actress and a singer, but this is your first time as a voice actress for a video game and a fairly popular one. How does this make you feel, and after the experience, would you consider more voice-...
The Outerhaven •

Dark Deity 2 Review – A Masterclass in Turn Based Strategy

Dark Deity 2 builds on its predecessor with deeper strategic battles and richer character-driven storytelling. Assemble your team, forge unbreakable bonds, and lead powerful heroes through an epic struggle where every choice shapes the journey. But does it surpass the original? Watch the review to find out! Game Name: Dark Deity 2 Platform(s): PC  Developer(s): Sword & Axe LLC Publisher(s): Indie.io, Smilegate Release Date: March 24, 2025 Price: $24.99 Review Disclosure Statement: A copy of Dar...
The Outerhaven •

Does The First Berserker: Khazan Have An Easy Mode

Soulslike games are known for being punishing and tough as nails, and well, that’s true. However, over the last few years, more and more Soulslikes have been adding an easy mode to make the game easier for those who aren’t veterans of the genre. And with the release of The First Berserker: Khazan, it also features an Easy Mode. However, just because there’s an easy mode doesn’t mean it doesn’t have it’s the way to go. In The First Berserker: Khazan, players will be able to access a selection scr...
The Outerhaven •

The Steam Deck’s Time In The Sun Has Faded For AAA Gaming

When I first purchased the Steam Deck, I immediately fell in love with it. Not only was it different from the Nintendo Switch, but it also allowed me to play a huge selection of indie games and even some AA/AAA titles—albeit with a bit of tweaking. However, times have been tough for Valve’s handheld PC, and it’s just not the same machine it once was, especially if you’re trying to stay on top of the latest releases. Now, don’t get me wrong—I’m not suggesting you toss your beloved Steam Deck into...
The Outerhaven •

How Xbox and Industry Leaders Are Improving Accessibility For Gamers

As someone who enjoys gaming, I’ve always felt that this hobby should be accessible for everyone, and that means making sure players of all abilities can enjoy their favorite titles without barriers. With over 429 million players worldwide having some form of disability, accessibility in gaming is more important than it has ever been. Thankfully companies like Xbox agree and at this year’s Game Developers Conference (GDC), Xbox has teamed up with Electronic Arts, Google, Nintendo of America, Ubi...
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