The Wake Forest Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Aaron Hardwick, is presenting a concert featuring video game scores by composer Inon Zur as part of the "We Play Together: Music & Gaming" event. This three-day celebration explores the evolution and complexity of gaming music, highlighting its immersive storytelling capabilities. Hardwick, an avid gamer and music professor, emphasizes the significance of video game music, drawing parallels to classical compositions. The event includes panel discussions with industry experts like astronaut Dan Tani and composer Inon Zur, a concert showcasing music from games like Starfield and Fallout, and a gaming tournament. It aims to engage audiences, promote the gaming industry, and inspire students to explore related career paths. More details are available on Wake Forest University’s website.

The Game Gallery, a beloved arcade and retail store in Easton, Pennsylvania, is set to reopen in a larger space at 60 Centre Square. Owner Angel Correa aims to bring back the retro arcade experience with over 200 arcade cabinets, including classics like Pac-Man and Mortal Kombat, as well as pinball machines and Japanese-style "candy cabinets." The new 5,000-square-foot venue will feature a retail section offering video games, consoles, collectibles, and more. Guests can enjoy coin-operated games for 50 cents to $1 each. The space will also host events such as card game tournaments and be available for private functions like birthday parties. Correa envisions further expansion into other Lehigh Valley locations, including Bethlehem and Whitehall.

This year's showcase highlights the work of 12 local developers, providing a platform for emerging talent in the tech community. Among the participants are students from the University of Arkansas and the Ignite Program, demonstrating innovative projects and skills. The event aims to foster growth and collaboration among young developers. Published and updated on April 16, 2025, by 5newsonline.com, the article underscores the importance of supporting educational initiatives that prepare students for careers in technology. This event serves as a vital stepping stone for students aspiring to become professional developers.

SMBC Consumer Finance's annual survey on financial awareness among Japanese 20- to 29-year-olds highlights concerning gaming habits. Nearly 19% of respondents admitted excessive in-game spending impacted their living expenses, with men more likely to prioritize gacha rolls over essentials. Despite regrets from almost a quarter of participants about video game expenditures, the number of people purchasing microtransactions increased by 6% compared to the previous year. Positive attitudes towards paying for in-game advantages rose, though average monthly spending slightly decreased. Globally, in-app purchases, particularly in mobile games with gacha mechanics, generate significant revenue; Japan contributes 14.3% of the $6.79 billion spent via Apple’s App Store and Google Play in March 2025. While successful games like PUBG Mobile and Candy Crush Saga dominate, lesser-known titles often outperform them financially.

A new report highlights how video games, particularly those popular among children, employ harmful design tactics such as gambling-like features to encourage excessive spending and gameplay. Researchers from the Consumer Policy Research Centre (CPRC) and Monash University identified 20 "dark patterns" that manipulate gamers, with 95% of surveyed adult players encountering these tactics and 83% experiencing negative consequences. Concerns include paid loot boxes, which normalize gambling for children, and a lack of transparency in game mechanics. The Australian regulatory system is criticized for failing to keep pace with industry growth, prompting calls for a revised classification system and an independent digital ombudsman. Despite recent classification changes, critics argue they are insufficient and not retroactive, while the gaming industry defends its practices as compliant and offering parental controls.

DREADMOOR, a new Lovecraftian fishing game by Dream Dock, offers players a unique blend of fishing, exploration, and combat in a post-nuclear apocalypse world. Set in the Submerged Land, players navigate submerged islands and ruins, catching fish to sell and upgrade their trawler. With over 100 species of prey, players must strategically use baits, manage inventory, and prevent catches from consuming each other. Battles with mutated creatures and managing radiation levels add danger. Found items like scrap metal and blueprints can be traded or used to craft baits, harpoons, and medicines, enriching the gameplay experience on PC via Steam.

Over the past five years, I've annually traveled to record NBA 2K video games, from NBA2K22 to NBA2K26. NBA 2K has been redefining sports entertainment for two decades by offering immersive experiences through various game modes such as MyTEAM, MyCAREER, and PLAY NOW. This year, recording for NBA2K26 takes place at Fenix Recording Studios in Staten Island, New York, a premier facility founded by Bill and Tony Hanson in 1999. Known for its high-quality equipment and professional environment, Fenix Recording Studios provides an exceptional space for musicians and voice-over artists worldwide. It's been an honor collaborating with NBA 2K and Mission Control Productions, where professional relationships have blossomed into family ties.

Casino software providers are increasingly incorporating elements from popular video games and music into their slot games, offering players a nostalgic and immersive experience. This trend has gained significant traction, particularly in Poland. The article highlights four notable casino games inspired by famous video games: Resident Evil 6, Tomb Raider: Secret of the Tomb, Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, and Space Invaders. Each game features mechanics, visuals, and soundtracks reminiscent of their video game counterparts, providing engaging gameplay with bonus features and substantial winnings potential. These titles not only entertain but also evoke nostalgia for the original franchises. Players are encouraged to enjoy these games responsibly.

"A Minecraft Movie," starring Jack Black and Jason Momoa, has proven to be a box office success, alleviating concerns about its performance. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer reflects on the risks and rewards of adapting gaming IPs into movies, emphasizing the importance of respecting the player community and maintaining the quality of the original franchise. Spencer discusses Microsoft's approach to balancing game development with media adaptations, highlighting the company's commitment to interactive entertainment while exploring opportunities in traditional media. The success of "A Minecraft Movie" underscores the potential for gaming franchises to expand into other entertainment forms, fostering deeper storytelling and character development. Spencer also touches on Microsoft's broader gaming strategy, including support for multi-platform releases and the role of Game Pass in expanding the gaming audience. As Microsoft celebrates its 50th anniversary, gaming remains a pivotal part of the company's identity and future aspirations.

Best Buy's Spring Sale, running until April 20, offers significant discounts across various categories, including video games and gaming hardware. Notable deals include the Arcade1Up Pac-Man Deluxe Arcade Machine for $450, the Lenovo Legion Go Z1 Extreme for $650, and the Meta Quest 3S VR bundle starting at $270. Gamers can also enjoy reduced prices on popular titles such as Alan Wake 2 Deluxe Edition for $45, Silent Hill 2 remake for $50, and Final Fantasy I-VI Pixel Remaster collection for $50. The sale features numerous discounts on PS5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch games, providing an excellent opportunity for gamers to expand their libraries or upgrade their equipment. Explore Best Buy’s full Spring Sale page for additional savings.

The Minecraft Movie, starring Jack Black, continued its impressive box office run in its second weekend, grossing $550.6 million worldwide. This success surpasses other video game adaptations like Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, and Pokémon: Detective Pikachu. Despite receiving mixed reviews (49% on Rotten Tomatoes), the film appeals to a wide audience, drawing from five demographics. Its opening weekend takings of $157 million in the U.S. broke records previously held by The Super Mario Bros. Movie domestically ($146 million) and internationally ($377 million versus Minecraft's $301 million). Top international markets include the UK, China, Germany, Mexico, and Australia. Industry experts note that strong audience reception overrides critical reviews, generating sustained momentum.

The long-awaited remake of Bethesda’s The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is rumored to release soon. According to journalist Jeff Grubb, the game might "shadow drop" next week, around April 21, aligning with previous reports suggesting an April release. Developed by Virtuos, the studio behind Konami's Metal Gear Solid 3 remake, the game is said to be fully remade using Unreal Engine 5. Key gameplay systems such as stamina, sneaking, blocking, archery, hit reaction, and HUD have been reworked. Inspirations from Souls-like games have enhanced the blocking system, while improvements include updated sneak icons. Despite no official announcement, anticipation for the remake continues to grow.