In April 2025, Clash of Clans fans are in for a treat as developer Supercell collaborates with WWE to introduce themed characters and events. Inspired by wrestling superstars, new in-game characters include the Grand Warden (The Undertaker), Barbarian King (Cody Rhodes), Archer Queen (Rhea Ripley), Royal Champion (Bianca Belair), Minion Prince (Rey Mysterio), P.E.K.K.A (Kane), Valkyrie (Becky Lynch), and Thrower (Jey Uso). Cody Rhodes, a long-time Clash of Clans enthusiast, expressed his excitement about merging his gaming and wrestling legacies. This crossover also features a Clash of Clans-themed match at WrestleMania 41, marking a historic integration of gaming into professional wrestling events. Players can access this unique content starting April 1.

Rumors suggest that the Nintendo Switch 2 may lack 4K output, based on information from developers using the NSW2 Development Kit. According to Insider Gaming, these kits, which are toolsets provided to developers for game preparation, do not include 4K output. However, the absence of 4K in the development kits does not confirm that the final console won't support it, as kits often differ from the final product's specifications. Sometimes, features like 4K output might be omitted to simplify testing or prevent leaks. Despite these findings, uncertainty remains, with potential clarifications expected on April 2.

HackNewHaven, a student-run hackathon at the University of New Haven, was hailed as a resounding success by industry sponsors including Microsoft, IBM, and Major League Hacking. Participants from universities in Connecticut and Massachusetts collaborated over 24 hours to develop tech products addressing social issues, such as mental health apps, encrypted messaging systems, and AI-powered navigation tools for fire rescue. Teams like MindConnect and FindYourWay won awards for their innovative projects. The event provided networking opportunities with industry professionals and showcased students' problem-solving skills. Faculty and mentors praised the participants' dedication and creativity, emphasizing the value of hands-on experiences in enhancing technical and teamwork abilities.

Insider Gaming has revealed surprising news about Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6): a special 'Throwback Edition' is set to release on Xbox 360, and possibly PS3. According to Rockstar Games, this edition caters to fans who enjoy retro gaming experiences, featuring lower-resolution textures, reduced draw distances, and limited updates. The decision aligns with the fiscal strategy outlined by Take-Two, aiming to offer fan service while capitalizing on nostalgia. Priced at $199.99, this lite version of GTA 6 promises several hours of gameplay for a niche audience. However, readers are reminded that this article is an April Fool's joke, as none of the details are true.

S-Game, the studio behind the upcoming samurai Soulslike game *Phantom Blade Zero*, which incorporates Chinese cultural elements, has garnered attention as a promising AAA project following the success of *Black Myth: Wukong*. In a recent interview with PC Gamer, CEO and Game Director Liang Qiwei (known as Soulframe Liang) discussed his journey of rejecting a job offer in New York after graduating from Yale to establish his indie studio in China. He explained the origin of his nickname "Soulframe," trademarked for over 15 years, which coincidentally matches the title of an upcoming game by Digital Extremes. Despite their interest in purchasing the trademark, Liang declined the offer, emphasizing his commitment to his brand.

The Cal Poly Humboldt Department of Dance, Music, and Theatre presents "An Adventure Through Video Game Music," a recital featuring pianist Ryan McGaughey on April 5th at 7:30pm in the Fulkerson Recital Hall. McGaughey, a skilled pianist with degrees from Humboldt State University and the Eastman School of Music, combines classical piano techniques with video game music. The event includes interactive visuals, mini-games, giveaways, and audience participation, with attendees choosing the musical selections. Tickets cost $20 for general admission, $5 for children and Cal Poly Humboldt students with ID, available online or at the door. For more information, contact the Cal Poly Humboldt School of Dance, Music, and Theatre.

Renowned video game composer Yoko Shimomura will be honored with the BAFTA Fellowship for lifetime achievement at the BAFTA Games Awards on April 8, 2025. Celebrated for her iconic soundtracks in games like Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy, and Street Fighter, Shimomura has significantly enriched the gaming industry over four decades. Her pioneering work has not only defined eras of gaming but also inspired future artists while paving the way for women in a male-dominated field. Recognized as one of BAFTA's highest honors, past recipients include illustrious figures such as Vanessa Redgrave and Martin Scorsese. The ceremony will take place at London's Queen Elizabeth Hall and be streamed live on BAFTA’s YouTube and Twitch channels.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to succeed the original Switch, which has delighted over 150 million gamers over eight years. While no official launch date has been announced, details are expected during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct on April 2 at 6 a.m. PT via YouTube. Rumors suggest a late May to early June release with a speculated price of $399. The new console will retain its hybrid functionality but promises enhanced features like AI upscaling and innovative control options. Backward compatibility with the original Switch games is confirmed, though potential improvements for these titles remain unclear. The event will also highlight exclusive games for the Switch 2, including anticipated titles from franchises like Mario and Zelda, alongside possible ports from PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.

COSEN and Animu Game have announced the action third-person shooter "Panty Party Perfect" for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4, set to release worldwide on October 9 with extensive language support. Originally launched on PC in 2017 and Switch in 2019, this title offers a physical and digital release for PS5 in Japan, including standard and limited editions priced at 4,000 yen and 10,000 yen respectively, while the PS4 version will be digital-only. The game expands its reach with multilingual options, catering to a global audience. For more details, the announcement trailer is available below.

"Split Fiction," a sci-fi/fantasy co-op adventure game from Hazelight Studios and EA, has surpassed two million sales since its March 6 release. It has broken Guinness World Records for most played local co-op game on Steam, fastest-selling co-op game within 48 hours, and highest-selling local co-op game in its first week. A bidding war is underway for film adaptation rights, though creator Josef Fares remains cautious, citing the ongoing movie development of their previous hit, "It Takes Two." Fares acknowledges the need for significant changes to adapt the interactive game into a passive film medium while retaining core elements. He also hints at a new Hazelight Studios game, continuing the tradition of thematic words like 'friendship' and 'collaboration.' The game includes Easter eggs referencing past titles and showcases quirky dark humor.

The social media embargo for *A Minecraft Movie* has been lifted, revealing mixed but largely positive reactions. Critics highlight its humor, impressive VFX, and performances from Jennifer Coolidge, Jack Black, and Jason Momoa, despite criticisms of its story and characters. Directed by Jared Hess, the film embraces a quirky, random style reminiscent of his past works like *Napoleon Dynamite*. Set in the imaginative Overworld, the plot follows four misfits who must navigate this cubic realm, combat threats like Piglins and Zombies, and rediscover their creativity. While some reviews label it "the worst movie in years," others praise it as fun, entertaining, and potentially a cult classic. With an estimated $60+ million opening in North America, the film is expected to perform well commercially, appealing especially to younger audiences.

Jack Black stars in "A Minecraft Movie," a live-action adaptation of the popular video game, reuniting with director Jared Hess. Before accepting the role, Black sought approval from his Minecraft-loving sons, who enthusiastically supported the idea. The film, releasing alongside a global gaming phenomenon known for its creativity and exploration, features Black as Steve, an expert Minecrafter. Joining him are Jason Momoa, Emma Myers, Danielle Brooks, Jennifer Coolidge, and Sebastian Hansen. Despite challenges in video game adaptations, recent successes like "Sonic" and "The Super Mario Bros. Movie" highlight the genre's potential. Director Hess emphasizes the game's family appeal, while Minecraft creator Torfi Frans Ólafsson highlights its role in creating shared memories. Black immersed himself in the game, spending over 100 hours playing it during production.