Ultime notizie per Nintendo Co (OTC:NTDOY) Azioni

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Nintendo started its video game console business in 1983 by launching the NES, and started its portable console business in 1989 by launching the Game Boy. Since then, the firm has focused on expanding the gaming population by delivering unique entertainment experiences on its original console systems; the Wii and Nintendo DS are its most popular hardware. However, Nintendo not only makes game consoles, but also owns world-renowned IPs such as Super Mario, Pokemon, and Zelda, which have been a source of cash flow for 40 years. 2020 was the 35th anniversary of Super Mario, Nintendo's most famous character.

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Sony ammette la sua debolezza nelle proprietà intellettuali: ecco perché fatica a competere con i giganti Nintendo e Disney.

Sony in crisi: perché non riesce a competere con Nintendo e Disney

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Bandai Namco Holdings ADR (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NCBDY#OTC">NCBDY</a>) is facing internal shifts in its Japanese workforce following recent reports of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming">project cancellations. </a>
Despite a strong release from its latest anime-based game, Dragon Ball Z: Sparking! Zero, which sold over 3 million units within 24 hours, Bandai Namco Studios is reportedly cutting down on staff indirectly and halting multiple projects due to declining demand.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Workforce Struggles And Voluntary Exits</h3>
According <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-10-15/bandai-namco-begins-to-cut-headcount-after-culling-game-titles?srnd=undefined&amp;embedded-checkout=true">to</a> Bloomberg, around 200 of Bandai Namco Studios&#8217; approximately 1,300 Japanese employees have been placed in a controversial employment situation since April.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/08/40557824/bandai-namco-ceo-2024-is-the-year-of-stabilization-for-gaming-industry">Bandai Namco CEO: &#8216;2024 Is The Year Of Stabilization&#8217; For Gaming Industry</a>
Workers are allegedly being reassigned to so-called &#8220;oidashi beya,&#8221; or &#8220;chasing-out rooms,&#8221; where they have no tasks, pushing them to resign voluntarily. As of this report, nearly 100 staff members have quit under this pressure.
While Bandai Namco denies the practice, stating that there are no such rooms designated to encourage voluntary exits, the company acknowledges periods where employees may experience delays in being reassigned to new projects.
A Bandai Namco representative said: "Our decisions to discontinue games are based on comprehensive assessments of the situation. Some employees may need to wait a certain amount of time before they are assigned their next project, but we do move forward with assignments as new projects emerge."
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Project Cancellations And Financial Woes</h3>
This workforce shift coincides with Bandai Namco&#8217;s decision to overhaul its game development pipeline. The company reported 21 billion yen in writedowns (approximately $140 million) over the three quarters leading to December. 
Notable projects that have been scrapped or delayed include several anime-based games, such as titles tied to Naruto and One Piece, as well as the Japan-only MMORPG Blue Protocol, which was canceled just before its global release under Amazon Games' banner. 
Additionally, the mobile game Tales of the Rays was shut down in Japan in July, following similar trends of halted projects.
There are even rumors that project, commission by Nintendo ADR (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>), has been paused. No official details have surfaced regarding the delay.
While these internal challenges loom, Dragon Ball Z: Sparking! Zero has emerged as a bright spot for the company. The game saw rapid success. Some 3 million units were sold in its first day of release and a peak concurrent player count of over 122,000 on Steam alone. PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S versions also contributed to the overwhelming response.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41319267/us-gaming-market-sees-7-spending-decline-in-august-madden-nfl-25-debut-a-bright-spot">US Gaming Market Sees 7% Spending Decline In August: Madden NFL 25 Debut A Bright Spot</a></li>
</ul>

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Inside Bandai Namco's Workforce Struggles: 100 Staff Members Quit During Project Overhauls

The latest figures from Circana reveal a dip in U.S. video game spending for August 2024, with total expenditure dropping 7% year-on-year to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming">$4.1 billion. </a>
Hardware sales fell by 36%, down to $208 million, compared to August 2023. This decline was most pronounced for Nintendo ADR&#8216;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) Nintendo Switch, which saw a 41% drop in sales, GamesIndustry.biz <a href="https://www.gamesindustry.biz/august-spending-drops-7-to-41bn-despite-madden-and-mobile-success-us-monthly-charts">reported.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41318405/microsoft-to-test-cloud-gaming-for-owned-xbox-games-in-november-report">Microsoft To Test Cloud Gaming For Owned Xbox Games In November: Report</a>
Despite the downturn in hardware spending, Sony Group Corp.&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>) PlayStation 5 continued to hold its position as the bestselling console for the month.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Video Game Content Spending Declines, But Mobile Shows Growth</h1>
Overall video game content spending, which includes physical and digital game sales, microtransactions, DLC and subscriptions, dropped by 5% to $3.7 billion.
While this decline affected multiple platforms, there was a bright spot: mobile content spending grew by 5%, according to data from Sensor Tower. 
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Madden NFL 25 Tops The Charts, EA Continues Its Dominance</h1>
August saw the release of Electronic Arts Inc&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) Madden NFL 25, which claimed the top spot as the best-selling game for the month. This marks the 25th consecutive year that a Madden title has achieved the highest sales in its debut month.
EA Sports College Football 25, which was last month's No.1, slipped to second place but maintained its position as the top-selling game of the year so far, surpassing Helldivers 2. Interestingly, the EA Sports MVP Bundle, featuring deluxe editions of both College Football and Madden, also made its mark, landing as the fifth biggest seller of the year and the fourth highest in August.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">New Releases Make Strong Debuts</h1>
Three other new releases made impressive entries into the top 20 for August. Ubisoft Entertainment SA's (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBSFF#OTC">UBSFF</a>) Star Wars: Outlaws debuted at No.3, signaling strong interest in the long-awaited open-world title. 
Square Enix Holdings Co.'s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SQNXF#OTC">SQNXF</a>) Visions of Mana landed at No.10, while Bandai Namco Holdings ADR's (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NCBDY#OTC">NCBDY</a>) Gundam Breaker 4 secured the 11th spot.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Stable Year-To-Date Spending Despite August Declines</h1>
Despite the August dip, the U.S. games market remains stable for the year overall. Year-to-date spending reached $36.3 billion, a 1% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
While hardware sales continue to struggle, dropping 28% to $2.3 billion, video game content spending has risen by 4% to $32.3 billion, highlighting the continued demand for digital entertainment and services.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Top-Selling Games Of August 2024</h1>
Here's the list of the top 20 selling games for August, according to Circana:
<ol>
<li>Madden NFL 25</li>
<li>EA Sports College Football</li>
<li>Star Wars: Outlaws</li>
<li>EA Sports MVP Bundle</li>
<li>Elden Ring</li>
<li>Hogwarts Legacy</li>
<li>Minecraft</li>
<li>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3</li>
<li>Marvel's Spider-Man 2</li>
<li>Visions of Mana</li>
<li>Gundam Breaker 4</li>
<li>The Elder Scrolls Online</li>
<li>Helldivers 2</li>
<li>Mario Kart 8</li>
<li>Ghost of Tsushima</li>
<li>Sea of Thieves</li>
<li>MLB The Show 24</li>
<li>Forza Horizon 5</li>
<li>Gran Turismo 7</li>
<li>EA Sports FC 24</li>
</ol>
Read Next: • <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41277228/playstation-plus-october-2024-dead-island-2-leads-spooky-lineup-of-14-games">PlayStation Plus October 2024: Dead Island 2 Leads Spooky Lineup Of 14 Games</a>
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US Gaming Market Sees 7% Spending Decline In August: Madden NFL 25 Debut A Bright Spot

The Internet Archive, a&nbsp;global digital library, has suffered a significant security breach and a DDoS attack, compromising <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41266620/internet-archive-hit-by-major-security-breach-and-ddos-attack-31-million-accounts-compromised" rel="noreferrer noopener">data of 31 million accounts</a>.
Following a court ruling, Turkey has banned the widely-used instant messaging platform Discord, according to the country's Information Technologies and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41243847/erdo-ans-justice-minister-speaks-up-on-discord-ban-in-turkey-we-are-determined-to-protect-our-youth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communication Authority or BTK</a>.
The U.N. revealed in a report that the messaging app&nbsp;Telegram, an&nbsp;encrypted messaging app, has been identified as a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41221289/telegram-the-new-frontier-for-criminal-gangs-un-report-uncovers-alarming-trends-in-organized-crime" rel="noreferrer noopener">major platform for criminal activities</a>.
In a cyberattack linked to the Chinese government, major U.S. broadband providers have reportedly been breached, potentially compromising systems used for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41200026/chinese-hackers-breach-at-t-verizon-networks-in-major-wiretap-data-theft-putting-us-national-securit" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">court-authorized wiretapping requests</a>.
Billionaire entrepreneur and&nbsp;Dallas Mavericks&nbsp;owner&nbsp;Mark Cuban&nbsp;has shed light on the future of linear television and streaming platforms, highlighting the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41219900/mark-cuban-on-how-tv-will-evolve-in-the-future-says-he-saw-the-rise-of-netflix-like-platforms-before" rel="noreferrer noopener">crucial&nbsp;role of sports media rights</a>.
Gaming
Nintendo Co., Ltd. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) has officially announced the "Nintendo Switch Online: Playtest Program," allowing up to 10,000 participants to test a new feature related to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41280517/how-to-join-nintendos-playtest-program-to-experience-new-switch-online-feature" rel="noreferrer noopener">the&nbsp;Nintendo Switch Online service</a>.
FIFA has announced a fresh partnership with&nbsp;Konami Group ADR, marking the return of the<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41279567/fifa-partners-with-konami-for-efootball-fifae-world-cup-revival" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;FIFAe World Cup tournament</a>.
Sony Group Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>) has revealed the full slate of new additions coming to the PlayStation Plus Games Catalog for October 2024, giving subscribers a variety of games to look forward to across <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41277228/playstation-plus-october-2024-dead-island-2-leads-spooky-lineup-of-14-games" rel="noreferrer noopener">both the&nbsp;Extra and Premium tiers</a>.
Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41209970/netflix-analysts-turn-more-optimistic-ahead-of-earnings-expensive-for-a-reason" rel="noreferrer noopener">Netflix Analysts Turn More Optimistic Ahead Of Earnings: &#8216;Expensive For A Reason&#8217;</a>
Media, Communication &amp; Music
ByteDance-owned&nbsp;TikTok&nbsp;is facing legal action from&nbsp;13 U.S. states and the&nbsp;District of Columbia.&nbsp;The states accuse TikTok of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41243023/tiktok-gets-sued-13-states-and-dc-accuse-chinese-platform-of-boosting-corporate-profits-via-social-m" rel="noreferrer noopener">causing harm to its younger users</a>.
Following the success of "Oppenheimer," renowned director&nbsp;Christopher Nolan has reportedly joined forces with actor&nbsp;Matt Damon for a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/10/41266961/christopher-nolan-taps-matt-damon-for-mystery-2026-imax-epic-is-universals-big-bet-likely-t" rel="noreferrer noopener">new&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/10/41266961/christopher-nolan-taps-matt-damon-for-mystery-2026-imax-epic-is-universals-big-bet-likely-t" rel="noreferrer noopener">Imax Corporation</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/10/41266961/christopher-nolan-taps-matt-damon-for-mystery-2026-imax-epic-is-universals-big-bet-likely-t" rel="noreferrer noopener"> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IMAX#NYSE">IMAX</a>)</a>.
Zoom Video Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZM#NASDAQ">ZM</a>) is gearing up to launch&nbsp;AI avatars&nbsp;that can communicate on behalf <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41265317/zoom-custom-ai-avatars-can-now-deliver-messages-to-your-team-as-you-skipping-boring-remote-meetings" rel="noreferrer noopener">of users by posing as them</a>.
Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41215414/goldman-sachs-raises-forecast-on-spotify-cites-user-engagement-growth-and-potential" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goldman Sachs Raises Forecast On Spotify, Cites User Engagement Growth and Potential Deluxe Tier Revenue</a>
Technology
Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>) disclosed plans for its next-gen&nbsp;MI350&nbsp;chip, aimed at competing with NVIDIA Corporation&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) new Blackwell system, with shipping anticipated&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41284533/nvidias-blackwell-chip-faces-amds-mi350-challenge-in-2025-ceo-lisa-su-says-beginning-not-the-end-of" rel="noreferrer noopener">in the second half of&nbsp;2025</a>.
Advanced Micro Devices launched several new high-performance computing solutions at the event, including fifth Gen AMD EPYC server CPUs, AMD Instinct MI325X accelerators, AMD Pensando Salina DPUs, AMD Pensando Pollara 400 NICs and AMD Ryzen AI PRO 300 series <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41282666/what-happened-with-amd-stock-today" rel="noreferrer noopener">processors for enterprise AI PCs</a>.&nbsp;
Taiwanese contract manufacturer Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HNHPF#OTC">HNHPF</a>) the company, which is popularly called&nbsp;Foxconn&nbsp;is gearing up to construct the&nbsp;largest <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41221276/apple-supplier-foxconn-to-build-worlds-largest-nvidia-superchip-factory-amid-soaring-ai-demand" rel="noreferrer noopener">manufacturing facility&nbsp;for&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41221276/apple-supplier-foxconn-to-build-worlds-largest-nvidia-superchip-factory-amid-soaring-ai-demand" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nvidia&#8217;s </a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41221276/apple-supplier-foxconn-to-build-worlds-largest-nvidia-superchip-factory-amid-soaring-ai-demand" rel="noreferrer noopener">GB200 chip</a>.
Alphabet Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) Google&nbsp;is rolling out new AI-powered security features for Android devices aimed at preventing phone theft. These features, which were&nbsp;initially announced in May, are designed to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41204898/google-starts-rolling-out-ai-powered-security-features-to-combat-android-phone-theft" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">automatically secure a device if it is stolen</a>.
Following&nbsp;the antitrust verdict,&nbsp;Google has made moves to halt changes <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41220186/google-will-continue-to-fight-epic-games-in-court-to-halt-epic-requested-changes-to-play-store-under" rel="noreferrer noopener">proposed by&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41220186/google-will-continue-to-fight-epic-games-in-court-to-halt-epic-requested-changes-to-play-store-under" rel="noreferrer noopener">Epic Games</a>.
Amazon.com, Inc.&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) cloud computing platform,&nbsp;Amazon Web Services&nbsp;CEO&nbsp;Matt Garman&nbsp;disclosed that the company had been delving into generative AI long&nbsp;before it <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41201296/aws-ceo-matt-garman-once-an-intern-says-they-were-pioneering-generative-ai-at-amazon-long-before-cha" rel="noreferrer noopener">became a widely&nbsp;accepted concept</a>.
Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41257775/uber-well-positioned-despite-tesla-robotaxi-threat-analyst-says" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uber &#8216;Well Positioned&#8217; Despite Tesla Robotaxi Threat, Analyst Says</a>
Roblox Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RBLX#NYSE">RBLX</a>) formally rejected the accusations levied in a recent report by&nbsp;Hindenburg Research, an investment firm <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/10/41255828/roblox-denies-hindenburgs-accusations-of-inflating-metrics-failing-at-child-safety-calls-them-misl" rel="noreferrer noopener">known for&nbsp;activist short-selling</a>.
Smartphones
Earlier this year, tech giants&nbsp;Alphabet and&nbsp;Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) joined forces to simplify the process of moving photos and videos between <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41265188/how-to-switch-from-google-photos-to-apples-icloud" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">their platforms by launching a tool</a>.
Amazon.com and&nbsp;Apple have announced a collaboration, as per which&nbsp;Apple TV+ will be <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/10/41264628/apple-tv-coming-to-amazon-prime-video-this-month-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-9-99-add-o" rel="noreferrer noopener">available through&nbsp;Prime Video</a>.
Apple&nbsp;is reportedly planning to launch a health-focused smart ring by 2026, according to a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41222158/apples-smart-ring-could-launch-by-2026-in-line-with-tim-cooks-health-centric-vision" rel="noreferrer noopener">forecast by analysts at CCS Insight</a>.
Elon Musk &amp; Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>)&nbsp;Robotaxi is set to disrupt the autonomous driving market, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/10/41238300/tesla-robotaxi-ambitions-come-as-most-americans-grow-wary-of-autonomous-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">currently led by </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/10/41238300/tesla-robotaxi-ambitions-come-as-most-americans-grow-wary-of-autonomous-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alphabet&#8217;s </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/10/41238300/tesla-robotaxi-ambitions-come-as-most-americans-grow-wary-of-autonomous-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Waymo</a>.
CEO&nbsp;Elon Musk's social media platform,&nbsp;X, formerly&nbsp;Twitter, has been granted permission by Brazil's Supreme Court to&nbsp;recommence<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41242624/elon-musk-vows-to-defend-freedom-of-speech-but-within-the-boundaries-of-the-law-as-x-gets-brazil-gre" rel="noreferrer noopener"> its operations&nbsp;in the country</a>.
The Federal Communications Commission or FCC has temporarily authorized&nbsp;Elon Musk-led&nbsp;SpaceX and&nbsp;T-Mobile US, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TMUS#NASDAQ">TMUS</a>) to provide direct-to-cell service via Starlink satellites in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41200194/spacex-and-t-mobiles-direct-to-cell-satellite-service-for-hurricane-hit-areas-green-lighted-by-fcc-a" rel="noreferrer noopener">areas&nbsp;impacted by Hurricane Helene</a>.
Read:<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41224028/elon-musk-talks-ai-woke-mind-virus-starlink-and-california-governor-gavin-newsom-with-tucker-carlson" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Elon Musk Talks AI, Woke Mind Virus, Starlink And California Governor Gavin Newsom With Tucker Carlson</a>
ChatGPT-parent&nbsp;OpenAI has disclosed that its platform is being misused by malicious entities to meddle with democratic <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41267154/ahead-of-trump-vs-harris-faceoff-chatgpt-parent-openai-uncovers-election-interference-misuse-but-see" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elections across the globe</a>.
Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41239978/s-p-500-earnings-season-kicks-off-why-analysts-call-this-quarter-a-stock-pickers-pa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">S&amp;P 500 Earnings Season Kicks Off: Why Analysts Call This Quarter &#8216;A Stock Picker&#8217;s Paradise&#8217;</a>

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Consumer Tech News (Oct 7-Oct 11): Apple TV+ To Be Available Through Prime Video, Tesla Robotaxi To Disrupt Autonomous Driving Market & More

Nintendo ADR (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) has officially announced the &#8220;Nintendo Switch Online: Playtest Program,&#8221; allowing up to 10,000 participants to test a new feature related to the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/08/40138944/nintendos-q1-sales-plummet-could-limited-releases-be-to-blame">Nintendo Switch Online service. </a>
The company has not provided specific details about the new feature, sparking speculation among fans.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/41074683/in-a-competitive-console-landscape-nintendo-says-it-will-not-get-involved-in-the-game-war"> In A Competitive Console Landscape, Nintendo Says It Will Not &#8216;Get Involved In The Game War&#8217;</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Participation Details</h3>
To <a href="https://playtest-p.nintendo.com/en-us">participate</a> in the playtest, players must meet the following criteria:
<ul>
<li>Age: Must be at least 18 years old.</li>
<li>Membership: Must have an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription.</li>
<li>Location: Participants must have a Nintendo Account registered in Japan, the USA, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, or Spain.</li>
</ul>
Sign-ups will open Thursday at 6 p.m. PDT and will close on Oct. 15. Participants will need to download &#8220;exclusive software&#8221; to their Nintendo Switch consoles to take part in the playtest, which is scheduled to run from Oct. 23 to Nov. 5.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Speculation On The New Feature</h3>
While details about the new feature remain vague, fans are eager to speculate. The company recently launched a gesture-controlled alarm clock, which could indicate a wide range of possibilities, including a sneak peek at features for the highly anticipated Switch 2.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/04/38499828/nintendo-switch-2-reports-leak-magnetic-joy-cons-enhanced-1080p-screen-next-gen-cartridges">Nintendo Switch 2 Reports Leak: Magnetic Joy-Cons, Enhanced 1080p Screen, Next-Gen Cartridges</a></li>
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Image credits: Shutterstock.

How To Join Nintendo's Playtest Program To Experience New Switch Online Feature

Pocketpair's monster-catching survival game, Palworld, has officially launched on Sony Group Corp.&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>) PlayStation 5 in Japan, following a delayed release due to ongoing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/07/39624481/nintendo-escalates-anti-piracy-campaign-with-lawsuit-against-modded-hardware">legal issues with Nintendo ARD</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>).
The game, which debuted on PlayStation consoles last month in 68 countries and regions, initially left Japanese fans waiting for reasons that have sparked widespread speculation. 
Many suspected that the delay was connected to Nintendo's lawsuit against Pocketpair over alleged patent infringements.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40962380/nintendos-killer-patent-could-crush-palworlds-monster-catching-gameplay-expert-warns">Nintendo&#8217;s &#8216;Killer Patent&#8217; Could Crush Palworld&#8217;s Monster-Catching Gameplay, Expert Warns</a>
&#8220;The PS5 version of Palworld is released today on the PS Store,&#8221; Pocketpair's social media team <a href="https://x.com/Palworld_JP/status/1842113232779243881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1842113232779243881%7Ctwgr%5E7075d40a02cfc814c9fa50b94bd9948dabc64a41%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eurogamer.net%2Fpalworld-ps5-release-finally-available-in-japan-despite-looming-nintendo-lawsuit">confirmed </a>this morning.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nintendo&#8217;s Lawsuit And Pocketpair's Response</h3>
In the midst of Palworld&#8217;s launch success, Nintendo initiated legal action against Pocketpair, citing patent infringement. 
While Nintendo has not publicly disclosed the specific patents involved, this lawsuit appears to have influenced Palworld&#8217;s delayed entry into the Japanese PlayStation market. 
&#8220;We are still unaware of which patents we have seemingly infringed,&#8221; Pocketpair stated.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A New Partnership With Krafton</h3>
In another major development for Palworld, Pocketpair has inked a partnership deal with Krafton, the parent company of PUBG Studios, to bring the game to mobile platforms, Eurogamer reported.
PUBG Studios is set to lead the development of Palworld&#8217;s mobile version, ensuring that its core elements are &#8220;faithfully reinterpreted and implemented,&#8221; according to a joint statement.
The mobile adaptation aims to capture the essence of what made the original Palworld such a success—its dynamic blend of monster collection, survival mechanics, and action-packed gameplay. With Krafton's pedigree in the mobile gaming market, fans are optimistic about the transition.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/06/39491189/pok-mon-palworld-controversy-teaches-this-developer-a-lesson-i-try-to-avoid-creating-new-things">Pokémon, Palworld Controversy Teaches This Developer A Lesson: &#8216;I Try To Avoid Creating New Things&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Image courtesy of Pocketpair.

Palworld Finally Hits PS5 In Japan After Legal Issues With Nintendo

Square Enix Holdings Co Ltd (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SQNXF#OTC">SQNXF</a>) has confirmed its intention to release Final Fantasy 16 on Xbox.
Naoki "Yoshi-P" Yoshida, the producer behind both Final Fantasy 14 and Final Fantasy 16, addressed the situation during an interview <a href="https://www.si.com/videogames/features/final-fantasy-14-naoki-yoshida-interview">with </a>Video Games.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/08/40448062/square-enix-announces-final-fantasy-16-pc-release-date-and-pricing">Square Enix Announces Final Fantasy 16 PC Release Date And Pricing</a>
"Of course we did announce the PC version of the game, so looking towards the Xbox version, we do want to release it on Xbox," Yoshida stated. 
"But when it comes to the specifics such as when the game would be available and such, we are not in a position to be able to share anything. But of course, I want to say that it's not as if there's zero hope, and we very much do want to achieve that. So players should not give up in terms of their hopes," he added.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">From Exclusive To Multi-Platform</h3>
Launched in June 2023 as a PlayStation 5 exclusive, Final Fantasy 16 has since expanded its availability, with a PC version released last month. 
The game&#8217;s transition to multi-platform is part of Square Enix's broader strategy to adapt to a shifting gaming landscape. Yoshida&#8217;s comments highlight a growing acknowledgment within the company of the importance of accessibility across various platforms to meet the diverse preferences of players.
Despite the excitement surrounding Final Fantasy 16, Square Enix has expressed concern over its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/23/09/34589295/can-square-enix-recover-2b-value-drop-after-final-fantasy-16-release">commercial performance. </a>
In a financial briefing held in May but disclosed in September, Takashi Kiryu, the company's president and representative director, revealed: &#8220;In the HD Games sub-segment, we released multiple new titles, including major titles such as Final Fantasy 16 and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, but profits unfortunately did not meet our expectations.&#8221;
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Adapting To Market Dynamics</h3>
In light of these financial challenges, Square Enix is restructuring its business model to enhance profitability. This includes a new multi-platform strategy that not only encompasses PC and Xbox but also aims for future compatibility with the next Nintendo ADR (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) console. 
However, as part of this reworking, the company has canceled several games, signaling a more selective approach to its development pipeline.
Last month, Yoshida suggested it might be time for fresh leadership to guide the franchise into the future, hinting at the potential for a younger generation to take the reins for Final Fantasy 17.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40925388/why-final-fantasy-16-7-rebirth-didnt-hit-profit-targets-according-to-square-enix">Why Final Fantasy 16, 7 Rebirth Didn&#8217;t Hit Profit Targets, According To Square Enix</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Final Fantasy 16 On Xbox? Square Enix Hints At A Possible Release

As the console landscape continues to be dominated by intense competition between PlayStation and Xbox, Nintendo ADR's (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) legendary game designer Shigeru Miyamoto has expressed the desire for the company to remain detached from this ongoing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/20/11/18393442/this-big-fund-manager-is-betting-on-nintendo-in-the-video-game-console-wars">"game war."</a>
During a recent interview with Famitsu (<a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/shigeru-miyamoto-wants-nintendo-to-be-left-out-of-the-game-wars-focused-on-high-specs-and-performance">via</a> IGN), held to mark the upcoming opening of the Nintendo Museum in Kyoto on Oct. 2, Miyamoto articulated a vision that prioritizes Nintendo&#8217;s unique identity over the technical arms race prevalent in the industry.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/23/06/32989205/microsoft-admits-xbox-has-lost-the-console-wars-during-ftc-court-hearing">Microsoft Admits &#8216;Xbox Has Lost The Console Wars&#8217; During FTC Court Hearing</a>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">A Vision For The Nintendo Museum</h1>
Miyamoto shared that the museum serves as a vital link between the company and its audience.
"Not only our employees but also people who know about Nintendo, including three generations of parents and children, could come out to see the museum and understand what Nintendo is all about,&#8221; he said.
In his remarks, Miyamoto voiced his hope that visitors and industry peers alike would "understand Nintendo and not get involved in what is sometimes called the &#8216;game war,&#8217; such as high specs and how to improve the performance of game consoles." 
"Nintendo will continue to make products that are uniquely Nintendo using various technologies available in the world today," he added. 
Miyamoto&#8217;s remarks are direct but not unexpected, considering Nintendo&#8217;s relative absence from the console war narrative compared Sony Group Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>) and Microsoft Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>) which have focused on high specs and performance, such as Sony&#8217;s recent announcement of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/41055245/ps5-30th-anniversary-chaos-scalpers-sweep-up-stock-leaving-fans-empty-handed">PS5 Pro. </a>
Nintendo&#8217;s approach has proven successful, with the Switch still selling well even as its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/02/37315458/this-is-the-reason-behind-nintendo-switch-2s-delay-to-march-2025-report-says">successor is anticipated.</a>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/07/39753348/nintendo-switch-breaks-record-as-longest-lasting-home-console">Nintendo Switch Breaks Record As Longest-Lasting Home Console</a></li>
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Photo: Shutterstock.

MSFT

In A Competitive Console Landscape, Nintendo Says It Will Not 'Get Involved In The Game War'

Palworld, the open-world crafting game often described as "Pokémon with guns", surprise-launched on the PlayStation 5 on Sept. 24, following Sony Group Corp.&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/41030256/playstation-plus-october-lineup-revealed-wwe-2k24-dead-space-more">State of Play broadcast. </a>
Gamers from 68 countries eagerly downloaded the long-awaited release, but fans in Japan were left in the dark. Despite the global excitement, Japanese players found themselves unable to access the game.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40962380/nintendos-killer-patent-could-crush-palworlds-monster-catching-gameplay-expert-warns">Nintendo&#8217;s &#8216;Killer Patent&#8217; Could Crush Palworld&#8217;s Monster-Catching Gameplay, Expert Warns</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Palworld PS5 Block In Japan</h3>
Pocketpair, the Japanese developer behind Palworld, took to X (formerly Twitter) to address the situation. The official Japanese Palworld account confirmed that the PS5 release in Japan "has not yet been decided," offering no further explanation for the delay. 
&#8220;We apologize to everyone in Japan who was looking forward to it, but all of our staff will do our best to deliver it to PS5 users as soon as possible, so we hope you will wait for a little longer. We look forward to your continued support of Palworld.&#8221;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">＜PS5版『Palworld / パルワールド』について＞ PlayStation公式『State of Play』にて発表があった通り、PS5版『Palworld / パルワールド』が本日、全世界68の国と地域で発売されました。… <a href="https://t.co/BNzS18XBYK">https://t.co/BNzS18XBYK</a>
&mdash; パルワールド/Palworld 公式 (@Palworld_JP) <a href="https://twitter.com/Palworld_JP/status/1838716479136763971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
The developer stopped short of specifying the reason behind the delay. But many suspect it is linked to a recent lawsuit filed by Nintendo ADR (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) and The Pokémon Company against Pocketpair. The case, which was filed in the Tokyo District Court, accuses the developer of infringing on Pokémon-related patents.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Legal Battle: Pokémon Vs. Palworld</h3>
Industry insiders believe that the legal dispute centers around a "killer patent" tied to the mechanics of catching creatures—a key gameplay feature in both Pokémon and Palworld. 
In Palworld, players can capture creatures using a ball-like object called a Pal Sphere, a concept that is strikingly similar to the capturing mechanic seen in Pokémon Legends: Arceus.
Pocketpair responded to the lawsuit with a public statement, claiming they were unaware of the specific patents they allegedly infringed upon. 
For now, Palworld remains available on all previously supported platforms, including Xbox and PC via Steam. The game is also still part of Microsoft&#8217;s Game Pass subscription service. 
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/03/37755269/palworld-success-overwhelms-too-big-for-our-studio-but-pocketpair-open-to-acquisitions">Palworld&#8217; Success Overwhelms: &#8216;Too Big for Our Studio,&#8217; But Pocketpair Open To Acquisitions</a></li>
</ul>
Image credits: Shutterstock.

Palworld Launches On PS5, But Why Can't Japan Play?

Black Myth: Wukong soared to the top of the charts in August 2024, according to Newzoo, leading the revenue rankings across <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/gaming-industry">six major markets. </a>
This action RPG, rooted in Chinese mythology, took the number one spot for overall earnings in the U.S., U.K., Germany, France, Spain and Italy highlighting its remarkable success in its debut month, GamesIndustry.biz <a href="https://www.gamesindustry.biz/black-myth-wukong-top-grossing-game-for-august-2024-newzoo-charts">reported.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/08/40660800/is-sony-behind-black-myth-wukongs-xbox-delay-what-we-know">Is Sony Behind Black Myth: Wukong&#8217;s Xbox Delay? What We Know</a>
Not only did Black Myth: Wukong dominate these markets, but it also claimed the top position in the PC category. On Sony Group Corp.&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>) PlayStation, it was the third-highest-grossing title, only trailing behind Fortnite and Electronic Arts Inc&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) EA Sports Madden NFL 25, showing that it performed strongly across multiple platforms. 
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">The First Descendant Experiences Revenue Decline</h1>
While Black Myth: Wukong thrived, other games like The First Descendant saw less favorable trends. 
According to Newzoo&#8217;s August analysis, the game experienced a steep revenue decline from June to August. Despite initial success, the competitive market and new releases may have contributed to this downturn.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Popular Titles See Engagement Boosts</h1>
Several established titles saw significant gains in monthly active users (MAUs) during August. 
Fall Guys, Diablo 4 and World of Warcraft were among the games that witnessed notable increases in player activity. In particular, World of Warcraft saw its biggest MAU increase of 2024, climbing nine ranks in Newzoo's engagement chart.
Another major title, Warner Bros. Discovery Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBD#NASDAQ">WBD</a>) Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga, experienced a substantial boost in player engagement. This was largely due to its inclusion in the PlayStation Plus lineup and a 75% discount on Nintendo ADR&#8216;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) Nintendo Switch Store, which helped bring in new and returning players.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Top Games by Revenue And MAUs For August</h1>
Newzoo's report also highlighted the top-performing games by revenue across PC and consoles for August. While Black Myth: Wukong led the revenue rankings, other big names like Fortnite and Madden NFL 25 secured second and third spots respectively.
In terms of monthly active users, Fortnite, Microsoft Corp.&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2/3/Warzone, and Minecraft dominated the top of the charts, maintaining their strong engagement among players across the six markets analyzed. 
Titles such as Diablo 4 also moved up significantly in the MAU rankings, driven by new updates that re-engaged the player base.
Read Next: 
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</ul>

Black Myth: Wukong's Big Debut Leads August Gaming Revenue Rankings

Nintendo ADR (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) and The Pokémon Company have filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Palworld developer Pocketpair, a case that could have significant ramifications for the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40859915/palworld-going-free-to-play-developer-weighs-bold-yet-difficult-move">indie game studio. </a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Patent At The Heart Of The Case</h3>
According to Kiyoshi Kurihara, a Japanese patent attorney, the patent in question revolves around the game's monster-catching mechanic. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/09/40945563/pok-mon-with-guns-nintendo-files-lawsuit-against-palworld-developer-over-alleged-patent-violations">&#8216;Pokémon With Guns&#8217;: Nintendo Files Lawsuit Against Palworld Developer Over Alleged Patent Violations</a>
Speaking to Yahoo Japan (<a href="https://automaton-media.com/en/news/whats-the-killer-patent-nintendo-is-suing-palworld-for-japanese-patent-attorney-offers-in-depth-analysis/">translated</a> by Automaton), Kurihara pointed to a "killer patent" that may be difficult to avoid for any game attempting to mirror the gameplay of Pokémon. 
The divisional patent (Patent No. 7545191) describes a process in which the player aims a capture item at a character on the field, releases it based on their input, and determines if the capture succeeds, causing the monster to become the player's property.
&#8220;It seems like it would be hard to avoid if you want to make a Pokémon-like game, and it's easy to infringe if you're not careful,&#8221; Kurihara explained.
Since the indie game's release, people have compared Palworld's "Pals" to Pokémon, but the lawsuit focuses on patents rather than copyright infringement.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A Legal Strategy In Motion</h3>
Kurihara suspects Nintendo strategically planned the timing of its lawsuit. Authorities approved the four divisional patents in August, months after Palworld&#8217;s January release.
This delay might explain why Nintendo waited to announce its lawsuit, giving it the legal grounds to pursue Pocketpair after solidifying the patent claims.
The lawsuit&#8217;s impact on Palworld&#8217;s availability on platforms like Steam and Xbox remains uncertain. Nintendo's patents focus on the catching mechanics central to Pokémon. This could compel Pocketpair to alter its game or even remove key features.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What's Next For Palworld?</h3>
At its peak, Palworld shattered concurrent player records and saw massive sales. It reportedly earned so much that Pocketpair struggled to manage the influx of profits.
The developer moved quickly to capitalize on this success. It even formed a new company, Palworld Entertainment, in partnership with Sony Group Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>) to further develop the brand.
Speculation is already swirling that Palworld will be making its way to PlayStation. Rumors suggest an announcement is imminent at the Tokyo Game Show, set to run from Sept. 26-29.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40859915/palworld-going-free-to-play-developer-weighs-bold-yet-difficult-move">Palworld Going Free-To-Play? Developer Weighs Bold, Yet &#8216;Difficult&#8217; Move</a></li>
</ul>
Image courtesy of Pocketpair.

Legal

Nintendo's 'Killer Patent' Could Crush Palworld's Monster-Catching Gameplay, Expert Warns

Nintendo ADR (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) and The Pokémon Company have officially filed a lawsuit against Tokyo-based indie game developer Pocketpair, accusing the studio of infringing on multiple patents with its game <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40859915/palworld-going-free-to-play-developer-weighs-bold-yet-difficult-move">Palworld. </a>
The lawsuit, filed on Sept. 18, seeks &#8220;an injunction to halt the infringement and compensation for damages,&#8221; Nintendo&#8217;s press release <a href="https://www.nintendo.co.jp/corporate/release/en/2024/240919.html">states.</a>
In response to the suit, Pocketpair <a href="https://www.pocketpair.jp/news/news16">said:</a> &#8220;At this moment, we are unaware of the specific patents we are accused of infringing upon, and we have not been notified of such details.&#8221;
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/06/39491189/pok-mon-palworld-controversy-teaches-this-developer-a-lesson-i-try-to-avoid-creating-new-things">Pokémon, Palworld Controversy Teaches This Developer A Lesson: &#8216;I Try To Avoid Creating New Things&#8217;</a>
The legal move follows months of fan speculation that Palworld, an early-access title often dubbed &#8220;Pokémon with guns,&#8221; had crossed into territory protected by Nintendo's intellectual property. 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nintendo's Lawsuit</h3>
&#8220;Nintendo will continue to take necessary actions against any infringement of its intellectual property rights, including the Nintendo brand itself, to protect the intellectual properties it has worked hard to establish over the years,&#8221; the company said in its official statement.
Pocketpair's Palworld launched in January 2024 and immediately gained attention, both for its fresh take on the survival crafting genre and for the controversy surrounding its uncanny similarities to Pokémon. 
Fans were quick to point out parallels between Pocketpair's creatures, known as "Pals," and popular Pokémon designs. Pocketpair, however, defended its work, insisting that Palworld is more aligned with games like Ark: Survival Evolved and Valheim.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pocketpair&#8217;s Reacts To Lawsuit</h3>
While pledging to cooperate with legal proceedings, Pocketpair expressed concern over the toll this lawsuit could take on indie developers: &#8220;It is truly unfortunate that we will be forced to allocate significant time to matters unrelated to game development due to this lawsuit.&#8221;
Pocketpair added that despite the lawsuit, it remains committed to improving Palworld and continuing its development. The developer apologized to fans for any concerns the legal dispute may cause and assured players that the game would not be affected in the short term.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Palworld's Success</h3>
Palworld was a breakout hit upon its early-access release on Steam and Xbox Game Pass. Priced at $30, the game quickly climbed the charts, breaking records for sales and concurrent players. 
It was lauded for its deep survival mechanics and the unusual combination of creature collection and combat. However, the game's similarities to Pokémon—particularly in the design of its creatures—became a talking point for players and critics alike.
Some of the creature designs in Palworld bear an undeniable resemblance to Pokémon. For example, Palworld&#8217;s electric Pal, Sparkit, draws comparisons to the iconic Pikachu, while others, like Pengullet, remind players of the Pokémon Piplup. 
Pocketpair has acknowledged these similarities but has consistently maintained that the designs are original and part of the game's broader survival gameplay.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/07/39624481/nintendo-escalates-anti-piracy-campaign-with-lawsuit-against-modded-hardware">Nintendo Escalates Anti-Piracy Campaign With Lawsuit Against Modded Hardware</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/03/37468541/nintendo-strikes-down-yuzu-emulator-in-2-4-million-settlement-what-does-this-mean-for-game-preserv">Nintendo Strikes Down Yuzu Emulator In $2.4M Settlement: What Does This Mean For Game Preservation?</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

'Pokémon With Guns': Nintendo Files Lawsuit Against Palworld Developer Over Alleged Patent Violations

Sony Group Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>)&nbsp;is preparing to launch a faster and premium version of its popular video game console to boost sales ahead of the holiday season.
The PlayStation 5 Pro <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240910040977/en/Sony-Interactive-Entertainment-Reveals-PlayStation-5-Pro-the-Most-Visually-Compelling-Way-to-Play-Games-on-PlayStation" rel="noreferrer noopener">will be available</a> on November 7 for $700, an increase of $200 from the standard version. Prior speculations quoted the price at $600, backed by a new Advanced Micro Devices, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>) chip and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/09/40755736/playstation-leak-confirms-ps5-pro-design-could-a-release-be-near" rel="noreferrer noopener">improved cooling technology</a>.
PlayStation 5 game users can avail themselves of upgraded resolutions and frame rates without toggling between different modes, Bloomberg <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-09-10/sony-reveals-new-faster-playstation-5-pro-for-700?srnd=phx-technology&amp;sref=TBDibEcD" rel="noreferrer noopener">cites</a> Mark Cerny, lead architect of the console.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/05/39070785/microsoft-confirms-call-of-duty-black-ops-6-on-xbox-game-pass-at-launch" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microsoft Confirms Call Of Duty: Black Ops 6 On Xbox Game Pass At Launch</a>
He told Bloomberg that the PlayStation 5 Pro would offer 45% faster rendering than the standard PlayStation 5.
PlayStation 5 has sold more than 59 million units since its release in 2020.
Sony clocked&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/08/40215609/sony-q1-topline-and-earnings-beat-music-and-gaming-divisions-lead-growth" rel="noreferrer noopener">fiscal first-quarter 2024</a> topline growth&nbsp;of 2% year-on-year to $19.3 billion, beating the analyst consensus of&nbsp;$17.19 billion.&nbsp;
Game &amp; Network Services (G&amp;NS) revenue increased 12%. Sony sold 2.4 million PlayStation 5 units in the quarter, down from&nbsp;3.3 million a year ago, missing the analyst estimate of 3 million.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/07/40081075/microsoft-reports-sharp-decline-in-xbox-hardware-sales-for-q4-but-theres-a-silver-lining" rel="noreferrer noopener">major console makers</a>, including&nbsp;Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), Sony,&nbsp;and Nintendo Co (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOF#OTC">NTDOF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>), faced double-digit percentage declines in May 2024, indicating the natural life cycle of gaming consoles.
Investors can gain exposure to Sony stock through Invesco International Dividend Achievers ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PID#NASDAQ">PID</a>) and SPDR S&amp;P Kensho New Economies Composite ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KOMP#NYSE">KOMP</a>).
Price Action: SONY stock is up 1.99% at $92.86 at&nbsp;the last check Tuesday.
Also Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40375035/nintendos-switch-2-delay-what-we-know-about-the-upcoming-console" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nintendo&#8217;s &#8220;Switch 2&#8221; Delay: What We Know About The Upcoming Console</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via Sony Blog

Movers

KOMP

NTDOF

PowerShares ETF Trust International Dividend Achievers Portfolio

Sony's PlayStation 5 Pro to Hit Shelves in November, Boasting 45% Faster Performance

The PS5 is getting pricer — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/02/37215819/just-in-time-for-gta-6-sony-will-likely-launch-ps5-pro-in-2024-analysts-predict">at least in Japan</a>. 
What Happened: Sony Group Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>) has quietly raised the price of its PlayStation 5 in Japan, sparking conversations among gamers and industry analysts alike. 
The PS5 in Japan will cost 60% more for the disc version and 82.5% for the digital edition. The decision is rooted in economic shifts, as the Japanese yen weakens against the dollar and general inflation rises.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/08/40231630/playstation-5-sales-slide-whats-behind-sonys-latest-numbers">PlayStation 5 Sales Slide: What&#8217;s Behind Sony&#8217;s Latest Numbers?</a>
&#8220;Japan is coming out of literally decades of deflation, prices are generally going up for consumer goods over here, and Sony is simply jumping on that bandwagon,&#8221; Serkan Toto, an analyst at Kantan Games, <a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/how-will-ps5-price-increases-in-japan-impact-the-ps5-pro-price-what-the-experts-are-saying">told</a> IGN&#8217;s Rebekah Valentine.
Daniel Ahmad, senior analyst at Niko Partners, echoed similar sentiments, adding that &#8220;Sony cites a challenging external environment, including fluctuations in the global economy, for the reason behind the three price increases. Japan is on the extreme end, but other markets have seen 1 or 2 price increases too, which is unique for console hardware.&#8221;
In dialogue with IGN, Ahmad also noted that export restrictions on Japanese consoles to other markets, particularly China, played a role in the decision.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">No Global Price Impact?</h3>
Although Sony's Japanese price hike might have raised alarm bells for some, analysts like Ahmad and Toto reassured that the increase is likely contained to Japan for now. 
Moreover, Michael Wagner of Newzoo pointed out that Sony is adapting to Japan's shifting economic landscape, not necessarily foreshadowing broader global price hikes. Still, as inflation continues to pressure consumers worldwide, industry watchers aren't ruling out future adjustments in other markets.
&#8220;Japan is on the extreme end,&#8221; Ahmad explained. &#8220;But the weakened yen against the dollar is certainly one reason. In 2020, the PS5 launched for what was the equivalent of $480. Today, that would be equal to $345, hence price increases to what is essentially $550.&#8221;
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What About The PS5 Pro?</h3>
The timing of this price increase has fueled speculation about the rumored PS5 Pro, expected to launch at an even higher price point. While Sony hasn't officially announced this upgrade, analysts seem convinced that it's only a matter of time.
&#8220;I have no doubt a PS5 Pro is coming,&#8221; said Toto. &#8220;We can expect the PS5 Pro to cost $600 to $650 in the US. Now, I am curious what Sony will do in the Japanese market where the current model costs 79,980 yen. For that price, you can get two Switches and almost an additional Switch Lite here. Will they dare to offer the PS5 Pro for 100,000 yen or even more?&#8221;
Michael Wagner offered a slightly different perspective: &#8220;When the PS4 Pro version came to market, we saw a decrease in the cost of the base model. If a PS5 Pro is on the horizon, we have no reason to believe Sony will change their pricing strategy for this generation.&#8221;
As for how effective a PS5 Pro would be, the analysts were split. Toto believes the upgrade could account for 10-15% of overall PS5 hardware sales by the end of the console's lifecycle, while Wagner was more cautious. He pointed out that many gamers are focused on titles that don't necessarily require hardware upgrades, such as &#8220;Fortnite&#8221; or &#8220;Minecraft.&#8221;
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Industry-Wide Impacts</h3>
As the gaming industry watches Sony's moves, other console makers might feel pressure to follow suit. Ahmad hinted that the upcoming PS5 Pro release could influence the pricing of Nintendo ADR's (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) long-awaited Switch successor, especially in Japan, where price sensitivity has always been a factor.
&#8220;Given the increase in costs for producing hardware, it&#8217;s unlikely Nintendo will be able to price the Switch successor as low as the original Switch was at launch,&#8221; Ahmad added.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/08/40635576/leak-reveals-key-details-about-the-ps5-pro-what-we-know-so-far">PS5 Pro Leak Reveals Key Details: What We Know So Far</a></li>
</ul>
Image credits: Shutterstock.

PS5 Price Increase Hits Japan: Is The Rest Of The World Next? Analysts Weigh In

Sony Group Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>) CFO Hiroki Totoki admitted that the company, despite its impressive portfolio, lacks enough intellectual properties (IP) that it has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming">"fostered from the beginning." </a>
This poses a challenge for Sony, especially as it seeks to compete with rivals like Nintendo ADR (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) and Walt Disney Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>), who have a stronger foundation of homegrown franchises across various media.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/09/40711249/sony-pulls-plug-on-concord-multiplayer-shooter-game-goes-offline-soon-after-launch">Sony Pulls Plug On Concord: Multiplayer Shooter Game Goes Offline Soon After Launch</a>
"Whether it's for games, films or anime, we don't have that much IP that we fostered from the beginning," Totoki <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/307f7a2e-a755-4f6e-badc-9bc119f185df">told</a> the Financial Times. "We're lacking the early phase (of IP) and that's an issue for us."
This admission quickly sparked a wave of nostalgia among PlayStation fans. Many took to social media to share images and memories of beloved, though long-dormant, Sony franchises like Sly Cooper and Resistance. 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sony&#8217;s Broader Challenge: IP Across All Media</h3>
Totoki's remarks, however, were not limited to gaming. Fans were quick to note that his comment addressed Sony's overall business, which includes films, anime, and other media. 
While franchises like The Last of Us have been wildly successful, especially following its critically acclaimed HBO adaptation, Sony's transmedia offerings are sparse when compared to powerhouses like Nintendo, which boasts the enduring appeal of Super Mario and Zelda.
Sony has made attempts to bolster its franchise portfolio through acquisitions and partnerships. One notable example was its failed bid, alongside Apollo, to acquire Paramount Global (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PARA#NASDAQ">PARA</a>) for $26 billion. 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">CEO Kenichiro Yoshida On Sony&#8217;s Creative Strategy</h3>
Moreover, in the interview, CEO Kenichiro Yoshida stressed the importance of technology and creativity, suggesting that the company's strength lies in these areas. 
"We have the technology, and creation is the area where we like and where we can contribute the most," Yoshida said in a separate interview. "By putting our efforts in creation, that also means that we will work with partners on the distribution side. So I think we have developed very good relationships with the so-called Big Tech players."
This collaborative approach could lead to new opportunities for Sony, particularly in the anime sector. Crunchyroll, a Sony-owned anime streaming service, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/08/40470764/spotify-boasts-395-surge-in-anime-music-streams-teams-up-with-crunchyroll">has been expanding rapidly</a>, with plans to co-produce shows to meet rising production costs. 
Crunchyroll's President, Rahul Purini, noted that there are around 800 million anime fans globally, a number he expects could grow to a billion in the near future. 
"Given the constraints within the ecosystem, there is an opportunity for various companies, including Sony, to see if there is a way to add additional capacity, bring additional talent, and potentially leverage digital technology in the creation process."
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/08/40635576/leak-reveals-key-details-about-the-ps5-pro-what-we-know-so-far">PS5 Pro Leak Reveals Key Details: What We Know So Far</a></li>
</ul>
Image credits: Shutterstock.

Sony CFO Admits: 'We Don't Have Enough IPs We Fostered From The Beginning' — Can Sony Compete With Rivals?

Video game retailer GameStop Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GME#NYSE">GME</a>) faced concerns over the growth of digital games taking away from physical games and the company's business model. 
The company may have a new strategy by offering a place to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming">buy retro video games.</a>
What Happened: Best known <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40589742/gamestops-second-meme-surge-fails-to-draw-2021s-retail-investor-crowd-sec-data-shows">as a meme stock</a> these days, GameStop could have a new method to help boost sales in the current and future quarters.
The physical video game retailer announced it is converting several locations into retro gaming retailers to put an emphasis on older video game consoles, games and accessories, tapping into the growing nostalgia of gamers with finding and playing old video games.
&#8220;The classics are back. New retro GameStops are now spawning near you," GameStop <a href="https://x.com/gamestop/status/1828560010160546142">tweeted</a>.
A picture shared by the retailer highlighted consoles from Nintendo Co (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>), Sony Group Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONY#NYSE">SONY</a>), Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) and Sega (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SGAMY#OTC">SGAMY</a>).
The consoles highlighted are:
<ul>
<li>Nintendo Entertainment System (NES)</li>
<li>Super Nintendo (SNES)</li>
<li>Game Boy</li>
<li>Game Boy Advance</li>
<li>Nintendo 64</li>
<li>Nintendo GameCube</li>
<li>Nintendo DS</li>
<li>Nintendo Wii</li>
<li>Nintendo Wii U</li>
<li>PlayStation</li>
<li>PS2</li>
<li>PS3</li>
<li>PS Vita</li>
<li>Sega Dreamcast</li>
<li>Sega Genesis</li>
<li>Sega Saturn</li>
<li>Xbox</li>
<li>Xbox 360</li>
</ul>
The consoles were released between 1985 and 2012 and are among the most well-known gaming consoles of the past few decades with some portable and others meant for use with televisions.
The GameStop <a href="https://www.gamestop.com/retro-store-locator">website </a>has a tracker to see the nearest Retro Store to a customer&#8217;s location.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/exclusives/24/07/39603613/exclusive-top-10-most-searched-tickers-on-benzinga-pro-in-first-half-2024-where-do-nvidia-tesla-pala">EXCLUSIVE: Top 10 Most Searched Tickers On Benzinga Pro In First Half 2024 – Where Do Nvidia, Tesla, Palantir, GameStop Rank?</a>
 Why It's Important: While gamers can buy retro video games on Amazon or auction websites like eBay, there may be something about going to a physical store and purchasing the items. There is also the feeling of getting your hands on a physical game and being able to go home and play it instead of waiting days for the mail to arrive.
The GameStop website shows old classics like Super Mario Bros available for sale. Older games in franchises such as Sonic the Hedgehog, Pokemon and Zelda are shown on the website.
GameStop recently announced it <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40157546/gamestop-shuts-down-game-informer-magazine-lays-off-entire-staff-report">was shutting down</a> Game Informer magazine and laying off the staff, a move that didn't sit well for the gaming community.
The hope for GameStop here could be to get more older video game fans into stores as it struggles with new consoles switching to digital-only models and gamers downloading digital games.
GameStop will report second-quarter financial results after market close on Sept. 10 with the potential for investors and gamers to hear more details on the new move. 
GME Price Action: GameStop stock is up 7.89% to $21.46 on Thursday versus a 52-week trading range of $9.95 to $64.83. GameStop stock is up 27% year-to-date in 2024.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/24/08/40225079/roaring-kitty-loses-thousands-of-x-followers-after-going-silent-on-gamestop-chewy">Roaring Kitty Loses Thousands Of X Followers After Going Silent On GameStop, Chewy</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Courtesy 1take1shot via Shutterstock

SGAMY

GameStop Converts Stores To Retro Retailers To Help Gamers Find Old Nintendo, Sega, Game Boy, PlayStation, Xbox Consoles

Electronic Arts Inc&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) EA Sports College Football 25 made a striking debut in July, clinching the No. 1 spot on Newzoo&#8217;s overall revenue charts across key markets including the U.S., UK, Germany, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming">France, Spain, and Italy. </a>
This latest installment not only emerged as the best-selling sports game of the month but also secured the top position on both PlayStation and Xbox platforms, GamesIndustry.biz <a href="https://www.gamesindustry.biz/ea-sports-college-football-25-tops-revenue-charts-for-july-newzoo-charts">reported.</a>
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/08/40586031/nba-2k25s-top-10-player-ratings-revealed-who-made-the-cut"> NBA 2K25&#8217;s Top 10 Player Ratings Revealed: Who Made The Cut?</a>
The success of EA Sports College Football 25 is noteworthy given its long-awaited return. Its strong performance in revenue is complemented by its solid showing in player engagement, ranking No. 17 for monthly active users.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">New Releases And Rankings</h3>
July also saw notable new entries. Nexon Co Ltd&#8216;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEXOF#OTC">NEXOF</a>) The First Descendant made a significant impact by debuting at No. 5 on the revenue charts. The game attracted 10 million players within a week of its July 2 release, and it ranked No. 13 in terms of monthly active users. 
Additionally, Nintendo ADR&#8216;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) World Champions: NES Edition appeared at No. 17 in revenue, while it topped the charts on the Switch. Luigi's Mansion 3 also experienced a boost, climbing 29 spots on the Switch revenue charts following a price reduction.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Top Performers Remain Strong</h3>
Established titles continued to perform well. Fortnite, while dropping to No. 2 in revenue, remained the top game by active users. EA Sports FC 24, Microsoft Corp.&#8217;s Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, 3, and Warzone 2.0, and Take-Two Interactive Software Inc&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TTWO#NASDAQ">TTWO</a>) Grand Theft Auto 5 also maintained strong positions, reflecting their ongoing popularity.
Top 20 Games by Revenue (July 2024):
<ol>
<li>EA Sports College Football 25</li>
<li>Fortnite</li>
<li>EA Sports FC 24</li>
<li>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, 3, and Warzone 2.0</li>
<li>The First Descendant</li>
<li>Elden Ring</li>
<li>Grand Theft Auto 5</li>
<li>Valorant</li>
<li>NBA 2K24</li>
<li>Roblox</li>
<li>The Sims 4</li>
<li>Minecraft</li>
<li>League of Legends</li>
<li>World of Warcraft</li>
<li>Tom Clancy&#8217;s Rainbow Six: Siege</li>
<li>Destiny 2</li>
<li>Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition</li>
<li>Overwatch 1 and 2</li>
<li>Apex Legends</li>
<li>Dead by Daylight</li>
</ol>
Top 20 Games by Monthly Active Users (July 2024):
<ol>
<li>Fortnite</li>
<li>Minecraft</li>
<li>Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, 3, and Warzone 2.0</li>
<li>Roblox</li>
<li>Grand Theft Auto 5</li>
<li>EA Sports FC 24</li>
<li>Rocket League</li>
<li>Tom Clancy&#8217;s Rainbow Six: Siege</li>
<li>Valorant</li>
<li>Elden Ring</li>
<li>Overwatch 1 and 2</li>
<li>The Sims 4</li>
<li>The First Descendant</li>
<li>Apex Legends</li>
<li>Destiny 2</li>
<li>NBA 2K24</li>
<li>EA Sports College Football 25</li>
<li>League of Legends</li>
<li>XDefiant</li>
<li>Madden NFL 24</li>
</ol>
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/08/40514954/video-game-spending-jumps-10-in-july-2024-2025-growth-potential-is-significant-report">Video Game Spending Jumps 10% In July 2024, &#8216;2025 Growth Potential Is Significant&#8217;: Report</a></li>
</ul>
Image created using Dall-E.

NEXOF

TTWO

July's Top Revenue Game Was A Comeback For The Ages — Think College Football

Nintendo ADR (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) is set to treat fans to a double-header of gaming updates with the upcoming Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase and Indie World Showcase, both scheduled for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming">Aug. 27. </a>
The back-to-back presentations will begin at 7 a.m. P.T./10 a.m. E.T. and promise 40 minutes of game reveals and updates.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Join us tomorrow, August 27 at 7am PT, for an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndieWorld?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndieWorld</a> Showcase followed by a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NintendoDirect?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NintendoDirect</a> Partner Showcase! The livestream, featuring both presentations back-to-back, will be roughly 40 minutes in total. Watch here: <a href="https://t.co/SyxftK1vRR">https://t.co/SyxftK1vRR</a> <a href="https://t.co/tIs15ggQaM">pic.twitter.com/tIs15ggQaM</a>
&mdash; Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) <a href="https://twitter.com/NintendoAmerica/status/1828070146117644476?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/08/40138944/nintendos-q1-sales-plummet-could-limited-releases-be-to-blame">Nintendo&#8217;s Q1 Sales Plummet: Could Limited Releases Be To Blame?</a>
The Indie World Showcase will lead the way, giving the spotlight to a diverse lineup of independent titles. While specific games haven&#8217;t been teased, past showcases have featured a variety of creative and innovative projects. 
In April 2024, for instance, the Indie World Showcase brought attention to games like Steamworld Heist 2, Lorelei and the Laser Eyes, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate. 
Following the Indie World Showcase, the Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase will highlight titles from Nintendo&#8217;s publishing and development partners. The last Partner Showcase in February 2024 featured notable titles such as Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed and Star Wars Battlefront Classic Collection. 
Additionally, it marked the arrival of Xbox first-party games on the Switch with Grounded and Pentiment making their debut on the platform. 
However, its worth noting that Nintendo has tempered expectations by confirming that the successor to the Nintendo Switch will not be discussed. The company has previously hinted that the next-generation console is not expected before April 2025.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/07/39753348/nintendo-switch-breaks-record-as-longest-lasting-home-console">Nintendo Switch Breaks Record As Longest-Lasting Home Console</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/es/g/Trygve+Finkelsen">Trygve Finkelsen</a> on Shutterstock.

Events

Nintendo Direct, Indie World Showcases: What To Expect Tomorrow

The U.S. video game industry saw a notable 10% increase in spending this July compared to the same time last year, according to Circana's latest<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/07/39779849/gaming-industry-revenues-to-hit-307-billion-by-2027-analysis"> report. </a>
This resurgence was evident across all categories — hardware, content, and accessories — indicating a market bouncing back from previous declines.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/08/40403494/gaming-industry-shows-signs-of-recovery-in-2024-report">Gaming Industry Shows Signs Of Recovery In 2024: Report</a>
<a href="https://www.gamesindustry.biz/circana-reports-10-uplift-in-us-game-spending-but-admits-this-will-continue-to-be-a-difficult-year">According </a>to GamesIndustry.biz, in July 2024, total video game sales reached $4.77 billion, a solid increase from the $4.35 billion reported in July 2023. 
Year-to-date figures also reflected positive momentum, with total sales reaching $32.09 billion, marking a 2% growth compared to the previous year. These figures show a revival in consumer engagement, likely driven by highly anticipated releases and the promise of new hardware on the horizon.
Among the top drivers of this upswing is Electronic Arts Inc&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) EA Sports College Football 25, which Circana identified as the best-selling game of the year, so far.
However, the industry's overall outlook for 2024 remains cautious. Mat Piscatella, video game industry advisor at Circana, pointed out: "This will continue to be a difficult year for video game manufacturers and publishers, as an overall spending decline, albeit in the low single-digits, is expected." 
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">A New Gaming Era: 2025 and Beyond</h1>
Circana's Future of Video Games Report paints a more optimistic picture for 2025, predicting a significant rebound. This positive forecast hinges on the launch of Nintendo ADR's (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) next-generation hardware platform and the highly anticipated release of Take-Two Interactive Software Inc&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TTWO#NASDAQ">TTWO</a>) Grand Theft Auto 6, which Piscatella believes could become "the biggest entertainment launch in U.S. history."
Digital delivery continues to be a strong trend, with Circana projecting ongoing dominance in this area. The report notes that &#8220;forever&#8221; games like Fortnite and Roblox will continue to capture significant player time, potentially reshaping how new titles compete for attention.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Hardware Declines Offset By Emerging Trends</h1>
While video game hardware revenue is expected to decline this year due to lower average prices and fewer units sold, Circana highlights an interesting shift. 
More players are turning to easily accessible platforms such as PCs and mobile devices, helping to cushion the blow to traditional console sales. The report explicitly mentions Valve's Steam Deck as an &#8220;emerging and exciting area of video game hardware.&#8221; 
&#8220;The transition to the new normal in the video game market has not been painless,&#8221; Piscatella added. Still, he remains confident about the long-term prospects: "The long-term outlook remains optimistic, with 2025 in particular carrying significant growth potential."
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/08/40142681/bestselling-games-of-june-2024-can-you-guess-why-elden-ring-is-1">Bestselling Games Of June 2024: Can You Guess Why Elden Ring Is #1?</a></li>
</ul>
This image was made using artificial intelligence.

Video Game Spending Jumps 10% In July 2024, '2025 Growth Potential Is Significant': Report

Minecraft Realms, the subscription-based service that allows players to create and join personal servers, has been hit with significant connectivity issues since <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/minecraft">Aug. 13. </a>
The troubles began shortly after the release of Minecraft update 1.21.20, which included updates to Realms invite links and various bug fixes, IGN <a href="https://www.ign.com/articles/minecraft-realms-servers-have-struggled-with-being-down-for-almost-week">reported.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/05/39096394/minecraft-series-coming-to-major-streaming-platform-microsofts-hit-game-thrives">&#8216;Minecraft&#8217; Series Coming To Major Streaming Platform: Microsoft&#8217;s Hit Game Thrives</a>
However, rather than improving the service, the update appears to have triggered long loading times, connection errors and persistent outages that have affected users across all platforms.
Microsoft Corp.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) Mojang, the developer behind Minecraft, quickly acknowledged the issue, with the Realms team tweeting on Aug. 15 that they were working &#8220;around the clock&#8221; to restore service.
Despite these efforts, the problems persisted, with Mojang reporting on Aug. 17 that only about 70% of players had regained access to their Realms.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">We are still hard at work to bring Realms back online for all players. As of now roughly 70% of players should have access. As part of this work we have had to block traffic to Realms on 1.21.20 on all platforms other than Switch (until Switch gets the hotfix). -DK
&mdash; Mojang Status (@MojangStatus) <a href="https://twitter.com/MojangStatus/status/1824965542324662353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The developer explained that they had to block traffic to Realms on version 1.21.20 across all platforms, except for Nintendo ADR&#8217;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) Nintendo Switch, until a hotfix could be implemented.
The company&#8217;s attempts to resolve the issue have been met with mixed results. While some players have reported improvements, many are still experiencing difficulties. 
As of August 19, reports of connectivity issues continue to surface, with Downdetector — a platform that tracks online service outages — showing a significant spike in complaints related to Minecraft Realms.
This prolonged disruption has sparked widespread frustration among the Minecraft community. Many fans have taken to social media to voice their displeasure, questioning the reliability of a paid service that has been down for nearly a week. 
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Photo: Shutterstock.

Minecraft Realms Crisis: Why Your Server Might Be Offline

Nintendo Co (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOF#OTC">NTDOF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) has reportedly informed developers that the release of its next gaming console, often referred to as the &#8220;Switch 2,&#8221; will likely not occur before April 2025.
The timeline suggests a later launch than some may have anticipated for the successor to the popular Nintendo Switch, the Video Games Chronicle <a target="_blank" href="https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/developers-reportedly-told-not-to-expect-switch-2-to-launch-before-april-2025/" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
The news comes from Chris Dring, head of GamesIndustry.biz, who discussed the potential launch plans on the publication&#8217;s latest podcast.
Dring noted that developers and fans alike are eager for the new console, especially given the excitement surrounding major upcoming titles like &#8220;Grand Theft Auto 6,&#8221; which could coincide with the Switch 2&#8217;s release.
The Switch 2 is said to include a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/04/38499828/nintendo-switch-2-reports-leak-magnetic-joy-cons-enhanced-1080p-screen-next-gen-cartridges" rel="noreferrer noopener">larger 1080p screen</a> and magnetically attached controllers.
It is rumored to play all physical and digital games from its predecessor and feature a cartridge slot for Switch game cards. The Switch 2 will also use a USB-C charging port.
As of June 30, 2024, Nintendo reported that the Switch had sold 143.42 million units worldwide. The company aims to sell an additional 13.5 million units by the end of the current fiscal year.
Switch sold 2.1 million units in the first quarter. Sony <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/08/40215609/sony-q1-topline-and-earnings-beat-music-and-gaming-divisions-lead-growth" rel="noreferrer noopener">sold 2.4 million</a> PlayStation 5&nbsp;(PS5) units in the quarter.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo via Shutterstock

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