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.

The Trump administration aims to implement work requirements for Medicaid eligibility, a move justified by claims that taxpayer-funded healthcare encourages young men to play videogames instead of working. House Speaker Mike Johnson argues this change would save money and restore dignity through work, targeting able-bodied individuals rather than the program's primary beneficiaries—single mothers, the elderly, and disabled people. However, research from KFF indicates that 64% of non-elderly Medicaid recipients already work, with most non-workers being ill, disabled, caregivers, or students. Critics highlight the disconnect between these claims and reality, noting the US lags behind many countries in providing universal healthcare. Additionally, there have been concerns about new officials' understanding of health programs, as seen in Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s confusion between Medicaid and Medicare.

Some video games, despite problematic launches, have managed to resurrect themselves through developer dedication and player feedback. Cyberpunk 2077, initially unplayable, was transformed by CD Projekt Red into a celebrated game with continuous updates. Similarly, No Man’s Sky overcame its broken launch by delivering on promises with numerous updates, creating a polished experience. Assassin’s Creed Unity, marred by technical issues, stabilized over time and remains fondly remembered for its parkour mechanics. Sea of Thieves evolved from a content-light launch into a thriving pirate adventure, while Final Fantasy XIV was rebuilt from the ground up into one of the best MMORPGs. These games exemplify how listening to players and persistent development can turn failures into successes.

The article reflects on the evolution and impact of video game journalism, particularly focusing on Kotaku's role during the mid-2000s. Initially designed with a fast-paced, chronological feed format, Kotaku prioritized constant content updates, blending trivial and significant news indiscriminately. This approach contributed to a culture where all information was treated as equally important, fostering an addictive news cycle and overwhelming readers with unnecessary details. Despite good intentions, this model devalued meaningful journalism by equating irrelevant press releases with substantial industry developments. The author acknowledges past mistakes, apologizing for their part in perpetuating these issues, and advocates for a slower, more thoughtful approach to coverage that contextualizes events and distinguishes between trivial and significant stories. This reflection highlights systemic problems within gaming media, calling for improved practices moving forward.