Author - Jerry Paxton

The Crew Motorfest Launches Milestone 10th Season

Today, Ubisoft Ivory Tower launched Season 10 of The Crew Motorfest. An exciting milestone for the action driving game, Season 10 introduces a new three-month seasonal framework, providing a sharper, more curated player experience. This free update will be available on Ubisoft+, PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Steam Deck, and PC through the Ubisoft Store, Epic Games Store, and Steam. Also in Season 10, The Crew Motorfest expands its fan-favorite Trackforge, introduces a Late-Night Car Show, and a headlining Special Event across its breathtaking Hawaiian setting.

A first-of-its-kind playlist, The Motorfest Late Show premieres July 1. A talk show driven by car culture, players will embody the show’s official pilot, taking on challenges, trials, and side activities. The playlist will run across the three–month season, releasing four automotive-themed events each month, including “Dolce Velocità” – a tribute to Iconic Italian Brands. Players will have free access to all 12 main events, 25 challenges, 10+ feats, and three photo ops.

Trackforge, the UGC track editor introduced last season, gets an upgrade with the Street and Touge kit. Rooted in the Japanese car subculture of racing through tight, winding, mountainous roads, this new kit provides community creators the opportunity to design more diverse, culturally rich custom circuits, expanding the creative possibilities of the tool.

Season 10 also brings the Hawaii Grand Tour, the longest challenge ever organized by Motorfest. For two million bucks, players will enjoy a 1-hour sweeping driving experience across the game’s iconic Hawaiian open world in hopes of adding the Ferrari 250 GTO to their car collection. Motorfest fans will also get to experience a new narrative format with Stories. First introduced in The Crew 2, Stories ground racing challenges within character-driven storytelling. Season 10’s first chapter kicks off with Kai’s Garage.

A total of 18 new vehicles will also roll out across Season 10, including the arrival of the long-awaited French brand, Alpine:

ALPINE A110 R Ultime (2025)
ALPINE Alpenglow Hy6 Concept (2024)
DELAGE D12 (2026) Hypercar on July 1
FIAT 500 F (1968) Street Tier 1 on August 5
CHEVROLET Corvette C1

SEAR Announcement Trailer

Temerity Games today unveiled SEAR, a high-speed anti-gravity racing game where every level is built around the structure of a song. As the music evolves, the course transforms with it, turning each level into a music video players can race through.

“SEAR started with me playing a racing game while listening to my own music, and the thrill I got when music and gameplay lined up”, said Adam Nicolai, Founder and President of Temerity Games. “I wanted a game where those awesome moments were intentional, instead of happening by accident. A true racing game where the music tied its intensity to that racing game excitement, and left strict rhythm mechanics out of it.”

SEAR is designed to be approachable without sacrificing depth, with extensive accessibility and customization options supporting a wide range of skill levels, play styles, and needs.

Vibe Mode offers a relaxed experience with simplified mechanics, while Strive Mode focuses on precision, mastery, and competitive play. Asynchronous multiplayer via global leaderboards and player ghosts encourage players to refine their routes and continually challenge their best runs across every song, with true online multiplayer planned for the 1.0 release.

SEAR will launch on PC via Steam Early Access in 2027. Players can wishlist SEAR on Steam and join the official Discord server to stay up to date.

House of the Dragon Soars into Game of Thrones: Dragonfire

The Dance of Dragons begins – and Warner Bros. Games and HBO® are extending the war for Westeros beyond the screen with new in-game content in Game of Thrones: Dragonfire, launching alongside Season 3 of the Emmy® Award-winning series “House of the Dragon.” Each week, players can dive deeper into the Targaryen Civil War through limited-time events, story-driven scenes and exclusive rewards inspired by the latest episode, with new content arriving every Monday. To further enhance the experience, players can also take part in a special Watch-Along Event that rewards them for following each episode and completing the season.

In celebration of the season 3 premiere and the game’s recent worldwide launch, Game of Thrones: Dragonfire has also released a new video featuring Steve Toussaint, actor behind Lord Corlys Velaryon on “House of the Dragon,” as he builds his own dragon army in the “Dragon Draft.”

Drawing inspiration from events portrayed in “House of the Dragon,” Game of Thrones: Dragonfire expands the story of Season 3 to explore new perspectives of the conflict surrounding the Targaryen succession. In Week 1, players experienced the Battle of the Gullet hunting Triarchy raiders across the realm while unlocking narrative scenes around the One-Eyed King, Aemond Targaryen. Sheepsteeler and Vermax also arrived as the newest dragons in the Hatchery, as limited-time dragons, available through July 5. Week 2 now has players conquering tiles in Rhaenyra Targaryen’s name to restore her rule over Westeros after she returns to King’s Landing. In new events, players are tasked with hunting black goats as visions bleed into the waking world, while also unlocking new narratives centered on Daemon Targaryen as he counsels Rhaenyra for the war still to come. New content will continue to roll out as the season unfolds.

Ground Branch Release Date Trailer

MicroProse is proud to announce that GROUND BRANCH, the tactical realism first-person shooter developed in collaboration with BlackFoot Studios, will officially leave Early Access and launch Version 1.0 on July 16, 2026, on Steam.

Created by a team led by one of the original developers behind the classic Rainbow Six and Ghost Recon games, GROUND BRANCH has spent years building a reputation among tactical shooter enthusiasts for its uncompromising approach to realism, deliberate gameplay, and player freedom.

Version 1.0 marks the game’s most significant milestone yet, delivering the strongest foundation GROUND BRANCH has ever had while introducing substantial improvements across AI, environments, animations, inventory systems, player interaction, and overall immersion.

A New Chapter Begins

GROUND BRANCH Version 1.0 introduces the return of Operations, the game’s campaign framework, alongside an all-new Prologue set in the mountains of Northwest Pakistan.

The Prologue features two narrative-driven missions that serve as an introduction to the events that will unfold throughout the wider campaign. Featuring full briefings, voice-over narration, and persistent progression, it represents the first step in a much larger journey for the game.

Version 1.0 also brings:

  • The new Outpost environment, an old mountain fort overlooking the Afghan border.
  • Significant enemy AI improvements, making opponents smarter, more reactive, and more dangerous.
  • The new Extraction mission type, featuring hostage rescue scenarios and advanced captor behaviors.
  • A completely overhauled player locomotion system with new motion capture animations.
  • A new door interaction and breaching system, expanding close-quarters combat possibilities.
  • Expanded customization options with new gear, weapons, attachments, and character appearance choices.
  • Numerous visual, audio, inventory, and quality-of-life improvements throughout the experience.

FROSTHAVEN 1.0 Launches on Oct. 15

Arc Games and Snapshot Games today announced that FROSTHAVEN, the digital adaptation of the critically acclaimed board game by Isaac Childres and Cephalofair Games, will officially launch on PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store on October 15, 2026. Snapshot Games CEO Julian Gollop and Game Director Hristo Petkov revealed the official release date in a new trailer detailing FROSTHAVEN’s early access evolution thanks to community feedback, as well as what players can expect with the game’s full release this fall.

Since entering early access, Snapshot Games has incorporated community feedback and steadily developed major content updates, refining and enriching FROSTHAVEN with a digital-only “Road to Frosthaven” introduction, playable heroes, storylines, quality-of-life improvements, and much more. The full launch will represent the culmination of that journey, with Snapshot Games delivering the most polished and feature-rich version of FROSTHAVEN to date.

At launch on October 15, FROSTHAVEN players can look forward to:

  • Complete Story Campaign – Experience the full FROSTHAVEN campaign from the tabletop board game, including the climactic final chapter.
  • Improved Onboarding – Learn FROSTHAVEN’s complex systems and mechanics with greater ease through the digital-only “Road to Frosthaven” introduction, tutorial, and UI displays.
  • All 17 Playable Heroes – Build your party from FROSTHAVEN’s complete roster of heroes, with the final hero joining the game at launch.
  • Standalone Game Demo – New adventurers can try FROSTHAVEN before purchase through a standalone demo experience through the Road to Frosthaven campaign.
  • Enhanced Co-op Play – Team up with friends through improved multiplayer systems and  networking enhancements.
  • House Rules – Tailor playthroughs with customizable House Rules, allowing players to adjust gameplay to suit their preferred playstyle.
  • Opening Cinematic – Begin the journey into FROSTHAVEN with a brand-new cinematic introduction that sets the stage for the challenges ahead in the Frozen North.
  • Hero Unlock Videos – Celebrate each new hero discovery with dedicated unlockable videos that introduce each hero and unique playstyle.
  • Fully Implemented Codex – Explore FROSTHAVEN’s lore, characters, creatures, biomes, and more through a comprehensive in-game Codex. No note-taking required!

“I am beyond happy with the final result of all of Snapshot’s hard work,” said Isaac Childres, CEO of Cephalofair Games and creator of acclaimed board games Gloomhaven and FROSTHAVEN. “It has been a joy to play FROSTHAVEN as a video game experience, and I think Snapshot has really done right by all players – keeping the gameplay in line with the original board game, while also improving onboarding and UX for new and old players alike.”

“FROSTHAVEN is an incredibly ambitious project,” said Julian Gollop, CEO of Snapshot Games and creator of X-COM. “There are such deep and intricate systems, plus a dedicated and knowledgeable fanbase to live up to. Staying true to the tabletop version and collaborating with the brilliant Isaac Childres and Cephalofair Games has been rewarding, and we’re proud of what the team has accomplished.”

“Our players have been crucial in shaping FROSTHAVEN,” said Hristo Petkov, Game Director of FROSTHAVEN. “Throughout early access, we’ve listened closely to feedback and improved many aspects, including onboarding, user experience, systems, and overall polish. Our full launch in October is a reflection of that collaboration, and we’re excited for players to see how far we’ve come.”

FROSTHAVEN launches Oct. 15, 2026, on Steam and the Epic Games Store. For more information, visit the official FROSTHAVEN website: https://www.playfrosthaven.com/en.

Logitech G Announces Partnership with Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4

Logitech G announced today that it is the Official PC Peripheral Partner for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4. The partnership is crafted for those who want more out of their gaming experience: more performance, more intensity, and more ways to elevate every match.  As the Official PC Peripheral Provider, Logitech G delivers trusted performance in mice, keyboards, headsets, and gear that help players elevate their game, from everyday gaming sessions to the highest levels of competition.

“This partnership between Logitech G and Activision is about elevating & celebrating every player in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4. Whether you play for fun or to win, our proprietary technologies combined with our full range of gear is designed to deliver the best gameplay experience possible. Together, we’re making every session into a chance to Play for Prestige. We are super excited to bring more moments and energy to an amazing game franchise,” said Andrew Tagher, Head of Partnerships at Logitech G.

“Partnering with Logitech G lets us push the boundaries of what Modern Warfare 4 feels like, from the first drop into combat to the final moments of a hard-fought win. By combining our game’s intensity with Logitech G’s innovation, engineering, and performance expertise, we’re giving players new ways to experience Call of Duty with greater immersion. This partnership helps bring players closer to the action of Modern Warfare,” said Cody Neal, Head of Partnerships at Activision.

Play for Prestige.

Logitech G and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4’s campaign, Play for Prestige, brings fans even closer to the game than ever before:

  • Unique In-Game Items: Suit up with a Logitech G-themed weapon blueprint, charm, and calling card.
  • Community Events: Enjoy Logitech G in-game challenges, streamer events, and more.
  • Signature Hardware Giveaways: Elevated setups with gear built for those who aim higher and play for their legacy.
  • Creator Experiences Powered by Streamlabs: AI-powered overlays, automatic highlight capture, custom stream automations, and interactive streaming companions inspired by the world of Modern Warfare 4.
  • LIGHTSYNC and Audio EQ Powered by GHUB: Take advantage of custom-tuned settings in GHUB and bring peripherals to life via a direct LIGHTSYNC RGB integration.

The Next Chapter in an Iconic Alliance

For over a decade, Logitech G and its legendary ASTRO console headsets delivered the performance, control, and comfort that transform good squads into legends. Whether it’s holding a hardpoint or snapping to targets, Logitech G is part of the defining moments – the wins, the losses, and the plays that cement a legacy.

As Modern Warfare 4 welcomes a new generation of players, Logitech G continues that tradition, bringing high-performance gear loved by pros and fans alike to every mission, every highlight reel, and every play.

Earn a Legacy

Every session, every round, and every cheer adds to a legacy built with every game. With the Logitech G gear and the Play for Prestige mantra, gamers are ready to create new memories and set the standard for what comes next.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 launches October 23, 2026. Preorders are available now on XBOX Series X|S and PlayStation 5. PC players can pre-purchase on Battle.net and Steam. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 is also launching on Nintendo Switch 2, with preorders coming later this year.

Follow @LogitechG and visit www.logitechg.com/callofdutymw4 for all the latest updates, event news, and exclusive community drops. The next chapter in Call of Duty history is yours, so Gear up. It’s time to make history, Operator. #PlayForPrestige #KeepPlaying.

MONOPOLY: Star Wars Heroes vs. Villains Out Now

Today, Ubisoft announced that MONOPOLY: Star Wars Heroes vs. Villains, a dynamic, team-based twist on the classic MONOPOLY experience, is now available on PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch™ 1 and 2, GeForce NOW, and Windows PC through the Ubisoft Store, Epic Games Store, and Steam.

Developed by Behavior Interactive, MONOPOLY: Star Wars Heroes vs. Villains transports players into the Star Wars galaxy with a custom MONOPOLY board and reimagined gameplay featuring:

  • 22 iconic locations from across many Star Wars eras
  • A roster of 28 heroes and villains, each featuring one of 14 unique abilities
  • Thrilling cinematic moments and special tiles
  • Unlike traditional MONOPOLY, Influence Points determine victory and are earned by purchasing and upgrading properties
  • Dynamic GO Events that can reward or deduct significant Influence Points, instantly changing the course of a match
  • A new Battle System that triggers a dice challenge when players land on the same tile, with control of the location at stake

With competitive 2v2 and 3v3 modes available both online and via couch co-op, the game transforms the classic board game into an action-packed strategic showdown where teamwork and coordinated plays are essential to success. Every game offers new opportunities to adapt, outmaneuver opponents, and experience the Star Wars galaxy in unexpected ways.

For the latest news on all of Ubisoft’s games, please visit news.ubisoft.com.

Honeycomb Aeronautical Echo Aviation Controller XPC Soars Onto Xbox

Honeycomb® Aeronautical, a leading name in professional-grade flight simulation hardware, announced today the Echo Aviation Controller XPC, a unique controller designed specifically for flight simulation, bringing professional grade flight controls to the Xbox for the very first time, the ideal navigator when enjoying Microsoft® Flight Simulator™ in front of the TV!

Since its launch late last year, the Echo Aviation Controller has been changing the way that flight simulation enthusiasts enjoy their flight time, unshackling them from the confines of a desk, and allowing them to play in a more casual environment. Now, Xbox gamers can enjoy the same experience when playing on console with the launch of the Echo Aviation Controller XPC.

Expected to begin shipping from Fall this year, at first glance the Echo Aviation Controller XPC may appear to be a regular gamepad, but beneath the surface lies a whole suite of essential flight simulation controls, all within the user’s fingertips, allowing remarkable amounts of precision when flying even the most complex of aircraft. Combining pitch, roll, yaw, throttle, trim and core aircraft systems, the Echo Aviation Controller XPC offers total control with no separate hardware required.

The Echo Aviation Controller XPC can be enjoyed by a whole new audience of Xbox console players, as well as allowing enthusiasts to use the controller on PC should they wish.

The Honeycomb Aeronautical Echo Aviation Controller XPC features:

Complete Flight Control in One Device

Echo combines pitch, roll, yaw, throttle, trim, and core aircraft systems into a single, streamlined PC controller — no separate peripherals required.

Precision Analog Stick for Pitch & Roll

Smooth, responsive Thumbstick delivers full elevator and aileron input for total aircraft control.

Four Throttle Levers & Trim Wheel

Independently Assignable Throttle Levers featuring detents and exchangeable caps  accommodate single and multi-engine aircraft. The integrated Trim Wheel provides continuous in-flight adjustment.

Rudder Paddle System

Rear paddles move in opposition to simulate rudder input — providing realistic yaw control without external pedals.

State-of-the-Art TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance Sensors) and Hall Effect Sensors

Magnetic sensor technology in the Analogue Stick and Hall Effect sensors in the Rudder Controls for ultimate precision and longevity.

Essential Systems at Your Fingertips

Physical controls for landing gear, flaps, and parking brake streamline your flight experience and reduce reliance on keyboard mapping.

Compact, Couch-Friendly Design

The Echo Aviation Controller XPC delivers full control in a clean, minimal footprint – ideal for simmers with limited space or those building a portable setup.

Xbox and PC compatibility – multi-platform compatibility for the ultimate in flexible flight.

Marc Küpper, CTO for Honeycomb Aeronautical commented, “The Echo Aviation Controller has already allowed flight simulation enthusiasts to free themselves from the desk and onto the couch when playing on a PC, and we are delighted to bring this revolutionary controller to Xbox gamers and enthusiasts with the launch of the Echo Aviation Controller XPC. We’re committed to broadening the audience for flight simulation, allowing console owners to experience the thrill of flight in a more relaxed environment, and the Echo Aviation Controller XPC is our first flight into consoles but certainly will not be the last”.

The Echo Aviation Controller XPC is expected to begin shipping from Fall 2026. For more information on Honeycomb Aeronautical, please visit: www.flyhoneycomb.com.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Blasts Onto Peacock This July

Get ready to soar through the cosmos from the comfort of your couch. Following its astronomical run in theaters, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is officially powering up for its exclusive streaming debut on Peacock on July 30.

Whether you’re looking to experience the intergalactic adventure for the first time or diving back in to spot hidden details, Mario’s latest quest is ready for your home screen.

A Record-Breaking Box Office Phenomenon

The animated blockbuster didn’t just reach for the stars—it shattered records along the way. Upon its theatrical release, the film debuted at #1 at the global box office and earned the distinct honor of becoming the first movie of 2026 to cross $1 billion worldwide.

Fueled by this massive success, the Super Mario cinematic franchise has now officially surpassed $2 billion at the global box office. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie currently ranks as the second highest-grossing film based on a video game in history, sitting right behind its predecessor, The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

A Star-Studded Galactic Cast

The second installment of the franchise brings back the beloved vocal talents that started it all, alongside some massive new additions to the Mushroom Kingdom universe.

  • The Returning Cast: Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, Jack Black, and Keegan-Michael Key.
  • The Newcomers: Brie Larson, Donald Glover, Glen Powell, and Benny Safdie.

The Ultimate Mario Streaming Experience

Peacock is turning into the ultimate hub for Nintendo fans. In addition to The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, subscribers will also be able to stream the original The Super Mario Bros. Movie, making a weekend double-feature incredibly easy.

Even better? Peacock is dropping a full collection of exclusive bonus content that takes fans behind the scenes of the cosmic adventure:

  • Next Level: Making The Super Mario Galaxy Movie: Go behind the scenes with the visionary creators at Nintendo, the acclaimed filmmakers and artists at Illumination, and the extraordinary cast to see the artistry behind every meticulously crafted frame.
  • Cast of Characters: Explore how the impeccable cast masterfully embodied these iconic characters, honoring their gaming legacy while captivating a whole new generation.
  • Exploring the Galaxy: Take a guided tour through the film’s most iconic settings and learn about the thoughtful layers of nostalgia embedded in the environment.
  • Galactic Thematics: Delve into the emotional core of the film, examining the character relationships, tested alliances, and bonds that evolve across the cosmos.
  • Cosmic Tunes: Step inside the creative process of composer Brian Tyler as he reimagines the franchise’s iconic video game music into a powerful cinematic score.
  • Power-Ups: A closer look at the film’s many power-ups, how the filmmakers chose which ones to include, and which items the cast counts as their personal favorites.
  • Secrets of the Galaxy: An insider’s guide from the filmmakers and cast on where to look for the film’s cleverly hidden Easter eggs and surprises.
  • Seen on the Screen Podcast Episode (Brie Larson): Academy Award–winner Brie Larson sits down with Jacqueline Coley to discuss her lifelong love of gaming and what it was like bringing the fan-favorite character Rosalina to life.

OBSESSION Available On Digital Today and Disc on July 14

Watch what you wish for. Continuing its record-breaking theatrical run, OBSESSION makes its home debut exclusively on digital platforms starting June 30, 2026, and on 4K UHD combo pack, Blu-ray™ and DVD on July 14, 2026, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. After breaking the mysterious “One Wish Willow” to win his crush’s heart, a hopeless romantic finds himself getting exactly what he asked for but soon discovers that some desires come at a dark, sinister price. The critically acclaimed breakout from Focus Features and rising horror auteur Curry Barker, is an unsettling, nightmare fueled psychological thriller unlike anything the genre has seen in years. With an A CinemaScore and Certified Fresh and Verified Hot Rotten Tomatoes scores anchored by standout performances from Michael Johnston (Slash, Endangered Species) and Inde Navarrette (“Superman & Lois,” Wander Darkly), OBSESSION has become a cultural phenomenon and is the must-watch horror event of the year. Take the Obsession further with an exclusive look behind-the-scenes and discover why some obsessions are impossible to escape.

OBSESSION, executive produced by Jason Blum (Blumhouse-Atomic Monster), is written and directed by Curry Barker (“That’s a Bad Idea,” Milk & Serial) and produced by James Harris (Fall, I Am Not a Serial Killer), Haley Nicole Johnson, Christian Mercuri (Kandahar, Boy Kills World), and Roman Viaris (Kandahar). The film also features chilling performances from its ensemble cast, including Cooper Tomlinson (“That’s a Bad Idea,” Milk & Serial), Megan Lawless (The Death That Awaits), and Emmy Award-nominee Andy Richter (“Conan,” Elf).

EXCLUSIVE BONUS FEATURES WHEN YOU PURCHASE AT PARTICIPATING RETAILERS:

  • OBSESSION UNLEASHED – Take the obsession further by going behind the scenes with filmmaker Curry Barker and the cast, Michael Johnston, Inde Navarrette, Cooper Tomlinson and Megan Lawless, to see them create a wild horror story out of intense performances and shocking scares. Hear the cast reflect on their most memorable scenes, get a peek at Michael and Inde’s chemistry test that sparked the film’s emotional core, and see how their collaboration shaped the film’s most unsettling moments.
  • FEATURE COMMENTARY WITH DIRECTOR/WRITER/EDITOR CURRY BARKER