Monster Train 2 is a superlative sequel that takes everything that made the first game great and amps it up with smart new systems and even more replayability - here are our thoughtsTech17:09, 27 May 2025Ready to get back on the track?There’s nothing quite like a good roguelike deckbuilder . Whether you’re into Slay The Spire, Inscryption, or Monster Train, you’re not short of options either.So, how does a studio brute force its way into the conversation? By dropping not only a sequel to one of the aforementioned holy trinity , but also by making it possibly the best example of the card-based genre in years.‌Monster Train 2 is that rare sequel that expertly weaves new ideas into the fine-tuned locomotive engine of its predecessor, all while keeping many of the original parts. The result is one of the most moreish games of 2025, and even the last half-decade.‌This time, we're working upwardMonster Train debuted back in 2020, and its appeal came from its much more expansive art style than its contemporary, Slay The Spire’s simpler art direction, as well as the fact that its ludicrously-addictive card-based combat loop works on multiple levels (literally).Racking up the units to protect the top tier of your train added an element of positioning and a layer of tactility to combat, while also providing foes with an opportunity to outplay you.Article continues belowThankfully, Monster Train 2 doesn’t so much change that system as it buffs it to a shine while adding a whole host of small tweaks around it.There's a seemingly infinite amount of build diversityThis time around, your train isn’t headed for hell, but is instead sent speeding into the heavens as you plot your route and pick your battles, unlocking cards as you go and using them to see how long you can keep your violent voyage going.‌That simple change of direction from the deepest depths to the highest heights means you can now pick your crew from angels, demons, and everything in between, and it’s all done with just as much charm (and a little more character) than it was in the first game.Enemies arrive, and you funnel them through your train while protecting the heart of the engine with card-based attacks that you level up and collect over the course of a run. Do you go all out to protect the top level, or aim to wear down the foes at the base level first? Cards can be played on multiple levels, and that means there’s much more choice at play than in similar titles.It may look like Monster Train 1, but there's more going on‌With cards to play, units to assemble, and many of them having unique interactions, it’ll be a long, long time before you’ve seen everything Monster Train 2 has to offer, which will be mana from heaven for anyone still logging into the first game five years after its launch.That’s before we get into more complex systems, too, like which items to grab and when, or whether your equipment cards are best served to power up your own cleaving commuters, or to be dropped onto your foes to debuff them.With primary and secondary factions to choose from, each with their own starting units and customisation options, Monster Train 2 is the kind of game one could feasibly start playing at 9 AM and keep chipping away at until the small hours of the next day. In fact, that’s exactly what happened more than once in my playtime, especially since it’s a model citizen on the Steam Deck.‌We won't spoil the surprise, but the clan variety is amazingWant to hoard gold to be able to splurge on reinforcements? The dragons are your best shout, but you can also use the Underlegion to essentially outnumber your foes with the power of, um, fungus.The Lazarus League, on the other hand, are like a hand grenade that’s just as liable to go off in your hand as it is to do damage to your opponents, bringing units back to life with randomised bonuses that can make or break a run.‌Mixing a pair of these factions together and attempting to essentially break the game’s carefully measured combat system with a mix of random card additions, buffs, and plain old luck is a rush that saw me racking up the runs night after night.Then there’s Endless Mode, which lets you take your custom deck from a winning run and keep testing it. In essence, you just keep going, battling until your Pyre Heart goes out, but with positive and negative modifiers to keep adding more and more layers to its delicious mix of mechanics.The VerdictArticle continues belowMonster Train 2 is a game that will sap your free time if you let it, and if you have a Steam Deck, we’d give it a 6 out of 5 if we could.It really is that good, that addictive, and that fun that we may struggle to go back to the incredible original–high praise, indeed.Reviewed on PC. Review code provided by the publisher.‌‌‌

Headset maker Turtle Beach has dug deep to deliver some new accessories for the Nintendo Switch console including wallet-friendly headsets and controllers for kid gamersTech15:26, 25 May 2025Updated 15:32, 25 May 2025Rematch Invincible MarioHeadset maker Turtle Beach has debuted a host of new Switch gizmos.They’re well known for their amazing audio cans but the accessory chiefs have stretched their legs and gone into controllers too for this batch of lower-priced offerings.‌The best of the gear is arguably the new Rematch controllers approved by Nintendo for their handheld.‌They are wireless and sync effortlessly to your console so you can avoid that dreaded Joy-Con drift and get gaming like a pro from as far as 30ft away.They’re a little plasticky in the feel, but have a lovely Xbox controller-style look and design to them, fitting comfortably in the grip.We tried the Mario star themed one and it’s great for kids who want a nice colourful joypad that also glows in the dark at night time after having been exposed to light.Article continues belowThe battery lasts a whopping 40-odd hours and is rechargeable via USB-C.The Rematch has a 40 hour battery lifeREAD MORE: Daily Star's newsletter brings you the biggest and best stories – sign up todayREAD MORE: Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition review: Cult classic gets new life on SwitchYou also have two programmable buttons on the back of the device to enhance in-game actions.‌And there’s motion control built-in too, so you can do your Wii-style bowling or tennis play with this controller just like a Joy-Con.Not bad for £49.99.Kids will also love the colourful Airlite Fit wired gaming headset for the handheld console.‌They cost £20 and for that you do get a somewhat compromised version of that famous Turtle Beach gaming sound, finely tuned audio through 40mm speakers.Again, officially licensed by Nintendo, they come in three different colours, including white and black and a neon purple.The Airlite Fit costs just £20 and has a wired connection‌We tried the classic red and blue mixed headset, one side red the other blue, that replicates the look of a classic Switch machine.Article continues belowThey’ve got soft padding under the hard plastic black headband, giving gamers a bit of comfort during long sessions at the screen.And the ear cups themselves are firmly padded, which is great for young ears.You have a flip-up-to-mute microphone built in that is flexible for positioning in front of the mouth and a 3.5mm cable connection for hard-wired audio.‌‌‌

Microsoft's subscription service, Xbox Game Pass, has grown into a must-have this year thanks to a whole host of big releases, but is it enough to help Xbox catch up to PlayStation?Tech13:00, 23 May 2025Game Pass is arguably more important than an Xbox console these days(Image: Future Publishing via Getty Images)It’d be fair to say at times that Xbox’s strategy this console generation has been clear as mud.From its opening salvo of multiplatform releases on PlayStation and Switch, to other games being released day and date on other systems, and some even looking better on PS5 Pro, you’d be reasonably wondering if you need an Xbox at all.‌In fact, Microsoft agrees, with its “This is an Xbox” pretty much labelling everything except your toaster and the kitchen sink as a console of sorts. The Xbox as we know it is long gone, it seems, but in its place, Xbox Game Pass feels like it’s grown in momentum month after month .‌Is it enough to turn the tide? It’s hard to say.Halo Infinite marked a sort of 'false dawn' for Game Pass back in 2021(Image: ESA PR Supplied.)Cast your mind back to late 2021. Microsoft released Forza Horizon 5 and Halo Infinite in consecutive months, and it felt as though Xbox Game Pass was about to kick into overdrive.Article continues belowSadly, things went a little quieter after that (and Halo’s momentum was curtailed for other reasons), but now, years later, it feels Xbox Game Pass is poised to finally hit some kind of stride.It’d be fair to say that Microsoft’s acquisition of Bethesda and Activision Blizzard has left it with a studio portfolio that would make many envious, but it’s not really managed to line up its releases. Even Avowed, one of this year’s best games (and one we’ll touch on shortly), was slated for last year before Microsoft nudged it to 2025.Still, as it turns out, having great games on your platform will get players through the door, and if you’ve got a PC then you’re in an even better position.‌Stalker 2 has been heavily patched since launch(Image: GSC Game World)September saw Frostpunk 2 arrive on Xbox Game Pass for PC, while October added Call of Duty Black Ops 6. November brought with it STALKER 2 on day one, and December saw the year out with Indiana Jones and the Great Circle.Unlike 2021, though, Microsoft has kept things moving between calendar years. January kicked off with Ninja Gaiden 2 Black as a stealth release, along with GOTY sequel Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector. February added Avowed, March brought with it Atomfall, and April added South of Midnight, critical darling Blue Prince, and the day one release of Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered.‌All of these games are available on PS5, sure, but the cost would be astronomical to play all of them, and Microsoft still isn’t done.DOOM: The Dark Ages is on PC and Xbox, along with Monster Train 2, this month, while Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 remakes , Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, Gears of War: Reloaded, The Outer Worlds 2 and much more are still coming in 2025.It’s a frankly ridiculous list of games with more to come in 2026, and that’s saying nothing of freebies like in-game items for League of Legends, Overwatch 2, and more, as well as this week’s announcement of a huge retro game collection .‌ESO is still growing, even after a decade(Image: Bethesda Softworks/ZeniMax Media )One of the biggest knocks against Game Pass in recent years has been the increase in price, and while there’s an argument to be made about Microsoft’s tiers making it harder to know if you’re getting a game on day one, Xbox Game Pass Core continues to grow.Core is cheaper than the Ultimate option that includes console and PC, but it does have a sizeable collection of games for budget-conscious players.‌The recently added Retro Classics are included, for example, as well as Bethesda hits like DOOM Eternal, Dishonored 2, and Fallout 4. For casual gamers, that might be enough.In fact, there’s a whole host of games included that could consume your week if you let them, like State of Decay 2, The Elder Scrolls Online, and Stardew Valley.That means there’s likely to be something for everyone while you wait for more recent releases to trickle down.‌Game Pass has really come into its own this year(Image: Microsoft)Most of my friends have a PlayStation 5, so if a game doesn’t have cross-play, that’s where I play my games—Game Pass or no.I do wonder how many feel the same, and see the appeal of Game Pass but simply don’t have the inclination (or money) to pick up a second console to play games cheaper in the long run, especially with so many coming to PlayStation in the future.‌Given Microsoft now has the keys to Warcraft, Overwatch, Elder Scrolls, Fallout, Gears of War, Halo, Forza and so much more, I wonder if there’s ever a scenario where they start to rebuild walls between their franchises.Sure, Call of Duty will keep making money hand over fist on as many platforms as possible, but would the next Dishonored be worth putting on all platforms when you could keep it to the Xbox platform as an added incentive?Microsoft can’t be happy with being in second place for another console generation, and while I do wonder if Sony will eventually reckon with rising budgets by starting to move its own games elsewhere (and not just to PC), I’d wager we’ll get one more Xbox generation at most before the company goes the way of SEGA.Article continues belowWhat do you think? Does Game Pass interest you? Are you always likely to play where your friends are? And can Microsoft keep up this momentum?For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌‌‌

Fortnite is one of the world's most popular games, and it's only getting bigger so it's a good idea to educate yourself on what it offers in 2025—including parental controls and moreTech10:00, 23 May 2025Could Fortnite be back on iPhone soon?Half-term is fast approaching, and there’s a good chance if your kids are of a certain age, they’ll be looking forward to dropping into Fortnite.Epic’s battle royale has taken on a life of its own, now offering a whole host of experiences ranging from LEGO Fortnite Brick Life, to Rocket Racing, and Fortnite Festival experiences.‌Still, we all get worried about kids spending too long playing, or splurging on skins and in-game items. Thankfully, Epic Games has given the Daily Star some handy tips to avoid any half-term headaches.‌Here’s what parents need to know.Fortnite has more than 190,000 games within its library of Epic Games developed and community-made experiences, and each has its own PEGI rating from 3+ to 12, meaning you can identify at a glance whether something is age-appropriate for your child.You can set limits within the game itselfArticle continues belowIn the UK, kids under 13 will automatically be placed in a Cabined Account, which Epic says is “designed to create a safe and inclusive space for younger players”.“Players in a Cabined Account can still play Fortnite, but won’t be able to access certain features like voice or text chat until a parent provides consent,” Epic told us.Parental controls offer a surprising amount of granularity and range from preventing younger players from having access to voice or text chat with anyone other than friends, as well as removing spending options.‌You can even set time limit controls to help ensure your kids aren’t neglecting homework or socialising in favour of grinding out the Battle Pass.You can also set limits onlinePerhaps most impressively, Epic has made parental controls easy to set up even if you’ve never held a controller before. Simply head towww.epicgames.com/id/login and sign into your child’s Epic Games account, or access parental controls directly in Fortnite - just click on your account icon in the top right corner when in-game.‌With Fortnite’s diverse offering of games and experiences, there’s something for everyone to play.Playing with your kids can help strengthen bonds, and forge new strategies. It’s also a great way to chill out and build with digital LEGO!For more on Fortnite, check out the latest on the game's return to Apple devices, as well as which Fortnite LEGO sets make our list of the best ones around.Article continues belowFor the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌‌‌

Ex-Bungie employees have commented on struggles facing the company following accusations of plagiarism for Marathon and big changes behind the scenes of Destiny 2Tech15:17, 22 May 2025Updated 15:17, 22 May 2025Destiny 2's Edge of Fate is just a couple of months awayDestiny 2 developer Bungie can't catch a break at present. Shortly after revealing a series of expansions for the game, its other project, a Marathon reboot, was hit by plagiarism accusations that have sent the historic studio scrambling to remove stolen art assets just months before launch.While owner Sony has reportedly set a high target for Marathon, the furore surrounding the game has seen former developers speak out about Bungie leadership and decisions made in recent years.‌Now, it's been suggested that Bungie leadership had pitched a subscription model for Destiny 2 which was "vehemently shot down" by the development team.‌Shared by Destin Legarie, former employees at the studio have suggested that there is a "toxic work culture" that involves "humiliation, HR working in their own best interest, and leadership mismanagement".With Destiny 2 having been around since 2017, with regular seasonal updates and annual expansions, leadership reportedly considered a subscription model that was shut down down "vehemently" by developers on the game.Article continues belowLegarie's video paints a picture of Bungie leadership doing its best to squeeze every penny out of Destiny 2, even going so far as to complain that one in-game armour set would be "too attractive with its glow effect" and might stop players from spending real money on cosmetics.Expect to learn a lot about The Nine in Edge of FateAnother employee said staff were "scolded" about monetising the game, while another said "everything happening to Bungie is because of greed".‌Forbes reported over the weekend that "Morale is in 'free-fall” at the studio, with staff concerned the Marathon plagiarism concerns could spell the end for Bungie's autonomy.One former developer at the studio reportedly told Legarie that Bungie becoming a part of PlayStation would be "the path forward" for the studio previously owned by Microsoft.Destiny 2's next expansion, Edge of Fate, is planned for July 2025, while its successor, Renegades, will bring a Star Wars inspired aesthetic in December.‌Bungie has committed to two mid-sized seasonal expansions each year, with sizeable free patches in between, instead of launching a large DLC and multiple seasons.We've reached out to Bungie for comment for this story.For more on Destiny, check out our hands-on with the latest Sprayground backpack collab,Article continues belowFor the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌‌‌

Pokemon TCG Pocket's next themed Booster Pack, Extradimensional Crisis, is launching next week, and it's packed with fresh new Pokemon to collect — here's all we knowTech15:42, 22 May 2025There's a new Binder availablePokemon TCG Pocket was one of our favourite games of 2024, and we've not stopped logging in daily to open packs, whether that's for Celestial Guardians or otherwise.Just as the real card game keeps gaining fresh cards like the Destined Rivals set, Pokemon TCG pocket is getting another themed booster pack, meaning players will have even more options when they log in.‌Here's all we know about what's coming with the new set, including the new Null type, as well as the full reveal trailer that shows off some of the amazing new card art.‌As you can see in the trrailer, fans can expect Ultra Beast cards this time around, including Blacephalon, Nihilego, Guzzlord ex and Buzzwole ex when the update launches on May 29.Ultra Beast creatures debuted in Pokemon Sun and Moon, essentially tying this set to Celestial Guardians from a few weeks ago, and it's clear that The Pokemon Company has its foot on the gas with the number of themed booster packs we're getting.Article continues belowBlacephalon is getting a full-art cardThere are more creatures from the Alola region, too, and Null-type creatures will make their debut.If you're worried about having somewhere to display your new cards, fear not! Players can use their shop tickets from May 29 to buy a new Ultra Beast-themed binder cover, as well as a new floral display board from an upcoming Wonder Pick event in June.‌The following events will arrive next month, too, as per The Pokemon Company:Ultra Beast Drop Event (4 June at 6 a.m. UTC to 14 June at 5:59 a.m. UTC): Take on special solo battles to obtain new promo cards, including Ultra Necrozma ex.Wonder Pick Event (12 June at 6 a.m. UTC to 22 June at 5:59 a.m. UTC): Obtain new promo cards such as Poipole and Stufful and obtain event shop tickets by completing missions.Article continues belowUltra Beast Mass Outbreak Event (23 June at 6 a.m. UTC to 29 June at 5:59 a.m. UTC): Cards relating to Ultra Beasts will appear in rare picks and bonus picks.For more on the Pokemon TCG, be sure to check out our interview with Peter Murphy, Senior Director of Marketing at The Pokemon Company International who explains the game has never been more popular in the UK.For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.

Nintendo's mascot is one of the most iconic video game characters of all time, but fans have only just discovered the unusual backstory behind Super Mario's nameTech16:08, 22 May 2025The origin of Mario's name goes back to a rent dispute in the 1980s(Image: Universal Studios via AP)Super Mario has been enchanting video gamers for decades, yet it appears many have only just stumbled upon the origins of the iconic plumber's name. For anyone with a passing interest in gaming, Mario is a household name, the protagonist of the famous Super Mario series and the face of Nintendo.The Mario franchise stands as the top-selling video game series ever, boasting over 830 million units sold – including a staggering 430 million from Super Mario titles alone. Whether at costume parties or Halloween bashes, Mario's likeness is unmistakable across the globe.‌However, the backstory behind his moniker remains a curiosity for many. First making an appearance in 1981's Donkey Kong, the character initially went by "Jumpman", but it wasn't until the follow-up, 1982's Donkey Kong Jr, that he received the memorable name Mario, paving his way to international acclaim.‌The website Quora saw an outpouring of intrigue when one user posed the query: "Why is Mario called Mario?" Knowledgeable fans were quick off the mark to clarify, shedding light on a fascinating tidbit. The beloved character's namesake was none other than Mario Segale, an American businessman and notable figure in real estate development.Segale was the proprietor of a warehouse in Tukwila, Washington, which Nintendo used as a rental space during the early 1980s. When Minoru Arakawa, the founder and erstwhile president of Nintendo of America, fell behind on the rent for the premises, Segale made a memorable appearance to "angrily remind" him to pay – inadvertently providing inspiration to the Nintendo team.Article continues belowOne Quora user expressed their thoughts: "Could have been Shigeru Miyamoto, but I'm going with former Nintendo of America president Minoru Arakawa as a means to mock their then-landlord Mario Seagale, which in turn, turned Jumpman into Mario when the character became the antagonist in Donkey Kong Jr."Another individual elaborated: "Mario is called Mario because he was named after Mario Segale, who was the landlord of Nintendo of America's office, after barging in on a company meeting to demand payment of overdue rent."One Nintendo exec was said to have named Mario after their angry landlord(Image: Charly Triballeau/AFP via Getty Images)‌In Jeff Ryan's 2011 book, Super Mario: How Nintendo Conquered America, he delved into the origins of the iconic name, recounting how Segale had nearly "jumped up and down himself" in fury over the delayed rent, emulating Jumpman’s own antics.He wrote: "Around this time, the Tukwila warehouse's owner showed up in person to angrily remind Arakawa about the rent. As the legend goes, the owner, Mario Segale, interrupted a conversation over what to call Jumpman. Segale said his piece, and he grew so incensed he almost jumped up and down himself."After the landlord departed, having delivered the threat of eviction, someone suggested the name Mario. It was a bit of a laugh, given that both men sported moustaches. But the name was well-received by all.Article continues below"If Mr. Segale had only shaved that morning, who can say what name the character on the screen might have been given? Super Carlos? Super Ivan? Super Stavros? Would that alternate-universe name have made a difference in Nintendo's success? Under any other name, would Mario play as sweet?"Mario will next appear in Mario Kart World for the Nintendo Switch 2, which will be released as a launch game for the new console on June 5th.‌‌‌

Football Manager 2025 has been cancelled, but Sports Interactive has set its sights higher than simply releasing another game in the long-running management seriesTech13:50, 22 May 2025Football Manager 2024 just gained a whole new reason to pick it up(Image: Sports Interactive)While the Football Manager community awaits news on this year's game after Football Manager 2025 was cancelled, you'd be forgiven for thinking the team at Sports Interactive is busy chipping away at the next instalment.We're expecting to hear more about the game in the coming months, but before then, one employee's LinkedIn post has suggested that the company is looking to further blur the lines between the beautiful game and the long-running management simulation.‌Here's all we know about what could be a big shift for the company.‌Posting on the platform, Sports Interactive's Senior Commercial Executive Matthew Hunter said "COMING SOON: Data-Driven Decisions, Game-Changing Signings.""From Sports Interactive (SI), the studio behind Football Manager, comes a groundbreaking platform set to redefine how football clubs approach recruitment," the post explains."Spanning over 7,000 competitions across 200 nations, our solution delivers unparalleled, subjective assessments of players, coaches, and clubs."Article continues below"Backed by the world’s largest scouting network, this is more than data; it’s football intelligence, refined through decades of expertise.""Whether strengthening your first team, investing in youth, or assessing backroom staff, this is your new competitive advantage," it adds, promising to help "re-define player identification strategy".‌There have long been clubs that lean on Sports Interactive's Football Manager database to help identify signings, but this appears to be a step beyond even that.Asked if the data will be used across this project and Football Manager, Hunter said "Absolutely, it’s the very same data that powers the Football Manager series, enhanced and restructured specifically for professional use.""What makes this even more exciting is how we’ve evolved the breadth and depth of the database into a powerful foundation tool for clubs and organisations. Soon, we’ll be unveiling additional features designed to support a fully streamlined process."‌Football Manager already has a whole host of player data(Image: Sports Interactive)In a lengthy statement when announcing the cancellation of Football Manager 25, Sports Interactive said: “Sports Interactive regret to inform that, following extensive internal discussion and careful consideration with SEGA, we have made the difficult decision to cancel Football Manager 25 and shift our focus to the next release.“We know this will come as a huge disappointment, especially given that the release date has already moved twice, and you have been eagerly anticipating the first gameplay reveal. We can only apologise for the time it has taken to communicate this decision. Due to stakeholder compliance, including legal and financial regulations, today was the earliest date that we could issue this statement.Article continues below“We have always prided ourselves on delivering the best value for money games that bring you countless hours of enjoyment, that feel worth every moment and every penny you spend. With the launch of FM25 we set out to create the biggest technical and visual advancement in the series for a generation, laying the building blocks for a new era.“Due to a variety of challenges that we’ve been open about to date, and many more unforeseen, we currently haven’t achieved what we set out to do in enough areas of the game, despite the phenomenal efforts of our team. Each decision to delay the release was made with the aim of getting the game closer to the desired level but, as we approached critical milestones at the turn of the year, it became unmistakably clear that we would not achieve the standard required, even with the adjusted timeline.”For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌‌‌

WWE's Roman Reigns and A Minecraft Movie star Jason Momoa have reportedly been linked with appearances in an upcoming Street Fighter movie that developer Capcom will co-produceTech10:47, 22 May 2025Street Fighter 6 looks slick on Switch 2(Image: Capcom)It's a great time to be a Street Fighter fan. Street Fighter 6 was an absolutely fantastic return to form, while the game will come to the upcoming Switch 2 console on launch day.There are even some of the best Overwatch 2 skins we've ever seen which have our heroes cosplaying as Chun-Li, Ryu, Cammy and more, while Capcom has just announced a Monster Hunter Wilds crossover as I'm typing this.‌Now, Deadline is reporting that Legendary Pictures and Capcom are working to put together a new movie adaptation of the fighting series, and some big names are attached. Here's all we know so far.‌Roman Reigns could be in Street Fighter(Image: WWE via Getty Images)According to Deadline, Roman Reigns from the WWE is linked with the project. Real name Leati Joseph Anoaʻi, he's previously appeared in Fast & Furious spinoff Hobbs & Shaw.Also in talks are Jason Momoa, who recently starred in A Minecraft Movie and who's breakout role was in Game of Thrones, while Andrew Koji from Bullet Train is also linked.Article continues belowNoah Centineo (Warfare) rounds out the actors in talks, but we're not sure which characters they'd portray.Capcom is no stranger to movie adaptations, although it'd be fair to say that some of them haven't been critical hits. The Resident Evil movie franchise gave way to inconsistent TV shows, while the Monster Hunter movie lost a lot of what makes the franchise so special.Back in 1994, Street Fighter got an infamous movie adaptation that starred Jean-Claude Van Damme, Kylie Minogue, and Raul Julia.‌The movie was panned by critics, and a sequel never materialised, but it did lead to an animated series in 1995. Somehow, 2009's Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li was even worse, so here's hoping the next entry gets a better response.As for Street Fighter 6, we gave the 2023 release top marks in our review."Full of content for all different types of gamer, whether that’s the one-vs-computer classic Street Fighter type or the player who loves to live online, making new pals," we said at the time.Article continues below"But underneath it all is an excellent fighting game that is as addictive as it ever was and a joy to play."For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌‌‌

Grand Theft Auto 6 won't launch for another year, but when it does, it needs to fix one Trailer 2 detail that fans have picked up on (although we hope they're joking)Tech11:18, 22 May 2025We'll see Lucia and Jason in a year(Image: Rockstar Games/AFP via Getty Ima)GTA 6 will be one year away on Monday (not that we're counting) and while Rockstar has finally deemed us worthy of another fantastic trailer, some fans have picked a very, very small hole in it.The game, which has reportedly been in development for years, is likely to be a pricey purchase when it does launch, but fans will want one very minor detail fixed if the chatter on social media is anything to go by.‌As spotted by PC Gamer, one Reddit user has spotted that within Trailer 2, one shot shows a gun flashing a split second before the weapon is actually fired.‌It'd be fair to say that the GTA 6 trailers have been some of the most impressive we've ever seen.From bubbles in beer bottles, to the way waves form and the incredible animation, it appears no detail has been spared—but fans have been joking that this muzzle flash oversight is cause for concern."That’s it, pre order cancelled," one commenter said, while another joked "Are you saying you've seen the light?"Article continues below"Literally unplayable. I can’t believe this garbage" another said, while another added "Bro, light travels faster than John Rockstar."There's every chance this gets 'fixed' in the final product, but it shows just how meticulously fans are combing through the trailer, which you can watch in all of its glory (again) below.Content cannot be displayed without consent‌At the time of the game's delay to 2026, Rockstar Games released a statement that said "We are very sorry this is later than you expected.""The interest and excitement surrounding a new Grand Theft Auto has been truly humbling for our entire team. We want to thank you for your support and your patience as we work to finish the game.""With every game we have released, the goal has always been to try and exceed your expectations, and Grand Theft Auto VI is no exception. We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve."Article continues belowTake-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick has said the delay gives Rockstar time to polish the game, while other reports have suggested it will alleviate the need for crunch for the development team.For more on GTA 6, check out how fans have put together an incredible interactive map with more than 100 locations, and how the game's delay could wipe $2.7 billion off of the games industry in 2025.For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌‌‌

Xbox exclusive Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 will make the jump to PlayStation 5, Microsoft has confirmed, as the company continues its plan for multiplatform releasesTech15:38, 21 May 2025Updated 16:27, 21 May 2025Ready to reunite with Senua, PlayStation fans?Microsoft has fully embraced its multiplatform future, with everything from Forza Horizon 5 to Gears of War bound for PlayStation.While Sony hasn't reciprocated just yet, making it the only console with the likes of God of War and The Last of Us, Team Green keeps putting its games on PS5, albeit with a delay from the original Xbox launch in most instances.‌So, which title is next? Why it's 2024's Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, of course, which is already available on Xbox and PC. Not only will those versions gain extra features through a patch (although we don't know what those are just yet), but Sony's expensive PS5 Pro will get additional features.‌That could make it the best place to play the Xbox game, just like Forza Horizon 5's superlative port.Hellblade 2 is already a stunning game"Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II arrives optimized for PlayStation 5, and PS5 Pro Enhanced, with added features and immersive haptic feedback for new ways to experience the award-winning and critically acclaimed next chapter of Senua’s story," the PlayStation Store listing says.Article continues belowWhile we don't know what the PS5 Pro features will be at this point, the fact that the more powerful system will offer features above and beyond the Xbox version may irk some fans of Microsoft's console.The game will also include Sony's Game Help feature, according to the listing.Hellblade 2 will no longer be an Xbox exclusive(Image: Ninja Theory)‌The first Hellblade, Senua's Sacrifice, was launched on PS4 and Xbox One in 2017, with developer Ninja Theory being acquired by Xbox the following year."The sequel to the award winning Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, Senua returns in a brutal journey of survival through the myth and torment of Viking Iceland," the game's product description explains."Intent on saving those who have fallen victim to the horrors of tyranny, Senua faces a battle of overcoming the darkness within and without."Article continues belowIn our review, we called Hellblade 2 a "stunning interactive movie", but acknowledged it was perhaps lacking in terms of gameplay.For more on PS5 Pro upgrades, check out our list of the best-looking games on Sony's pricier system—and yes, Forza Horizon 5 is on there.For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌‌‌

With Nintendo Switch 2 offering upgrades to some games for the original console, here are the titles we can't wait to check out on the new hardware, from Pokemon to ZeldaTech15:47, 21 May 2025Updated 15:50, 21 May 2025Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition is one of Switch's best-looking titlesAs we covered in our rundown of the best Nintendo Switch games, we understand that the Switch 2 will be a massive upgrade, but we're still a little sad about leaving the original console behind.Thankfully, our software libraries aren't going anywhere, and as we now know, many games will see free improvements on the new hardware.‌While some upgrades will be expensive, those are typically the ones offering additional content that make the games worth revisiting, and we've put together a list of the Switch 1 games we can't wait to check out on the new console when it launches in a couple of weeks.‌Kirby is back with new Switch 2 content(Image: Nintendo)One of the paid 'Upgrade Packs' Nintendo has been showing off (alongside Super Mario Party Jamboree), Kirby and the Forgotten Land was a delightful platformer when it launched in 2022, but one common complaint was that it was a tad too easy.While we don't yet know if the Star-Crossed World content from the Switch 2 version will ramp up the challenge, we're just happy to have more to do in the game's colourful world, and to find out what mischief Kirby can get up to this time around.Article continues belowIt'll cost you under a tenner to upgrade Breath of the Wild for Switch 2(Image: Nintendo)You can also add Tears of the Kingdom to this list, but Breath of the Wild was the quintessential Switch game for many. In fact, there's an argument to be made that many may have skipped the console (at least in its earliest months) had it not been for Link's adventure being dubbed one of the greatest games of all time.The upgrade pack will set you back £7.99, but it's also included in Nintendo Switch Online memberships which is handy. Switch 2 brings with it an improved resolution and frame rates, as well as HDR support, meaning Breath of the Wild should look (and run) better than ever.‌Scarlet and Violet disappointed at launch because of performance issues(Image: The Pokemon Company)Scarlet and Violet could be cracking entries in the long-running Pokemon RPG series, but technical issues certainly dampened the excitement of their open world and nonlinear structure.Thankfully, the upgrade for the Switch 2 is free, so you can jump back into Paldea and catch 'em all. In fact, Nintendo says the game is now optimised for "improved image quality", and the frame rate is improved which was one of our biggest issues with the original version.‌Bowser's Fury is a fun, if short, adventureFeeling almost like the first Switch and Upgrade Pack game we saw, Super Mario 3D World is a cracking port of a classic, while Bowser's Fury is an open-world adventure worth the price of admission alone.Switch 2 will offer improved frame rates across both titles, and improve the image quality, meaning they'll never look better. In fact, we're a little jealous if you haven't played either because there's never been a better time.‌It's high time we got another 3D Mario titleAnother listicle, another Super Mario Odyssey mention, but this really is one of the best games on Switch 1 and it's getting free upgrades on Nintendo's new hardware.Nintendo says the patch will add HDR support, and the resolution will be improved, while GameShare will mean you can play in co-op on two consoles with a single copy of the game, with one player taking the role of Cappy.‌We'll take any excuse to revisit this 2017 classic.Xenoblade Chronicles X is an impressive technical achievement on Switch 1The most recent game on this list (or at least this version is), Xenoblade Chronicles X feels like the pinnacle of visuals on Switch 1, but the game's code suggests there's a 60FPS option available somehow.Article continues belowNintendo hasn't said anything, but if the game can run at double its normal frame rate, we'll happily jump right back in.For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌‌‌

It's been a big few weeks for Xbox, and Microsoft's gaming division just dropped a huge number of classic games onto Xbox Game Pass in what might be its biggest update everTech16:39, 21 May 2025Xbox Game Pass just added a whole host of games in one fell swoopIf you thought Microsoft was done for the day with its announcement that Xbox exclusive Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 would be coming to PlayStation, you'd be wrong.The company has gone muiltiplatform in a big way, but Xbox and Windows remain the only places to enjoy Xbox Game Pass, and as Microsoft keeps picking up studios and publishers, its content offering on the service is growing rapidly (just look at last week's excellent DOOM: The Dark Ages).‌Today, in a new May Update blog post, Dean Shimabukuro, Product Marketing Manager, Xbox Services Marketing confirmed that Game Pass players are able to play a huge host of older titles dubbed Retro Classics, while also confirming more features for Xbox and PC gamers.‌Content cannot be displayed without consentEarlier today, Xbox's Game Pass account posted on X (formerly Twitter) to confirm huge games like Game of the Year contender Metaphor: ReFantazio would be coming to the service, as well as titles like STALKER 2 and more coming to the standard tier.It's a solid lineup, but another surprise fell shortly after when the blog post revealed more than 50 classic Activision games would be added under the Retro Classics banner.Article continues below"We’re thrilled to announce the launch of Retro Classics, a collaboration between Xbox and Antstream Arcade, available to play for Game Pass members globally," the aforementioned blog post explains.Game Bar is getting some changes"Starting today, Game Pass members can dive into a collection of 50+ classic Activision games from the ’80s and ’90s, including beloved titles like Commando, Grand Prix, Kaboom!, Mech Warrior 2: 31st Century Combat, and Pitfall! This initiative is a step in our commitment to game preservation and backwards compatibility, allowing players to experience many timeless games on modern devices."‌Microsoft says the games offer a "seamless gaming experience across console, PC, and on supported devices with cloud gaming".Elsewhere, Microsoft is making changes to its Game Bar on PC, which offers a series of quick settings for Windows gamers, while a browser which is "built specifically for players" will help players navigate their favourite guides while they play.NVIDIA's GeForce Now will also now be found in the Xbox app, players will be able to stream games like Skull and Bones and Watch Dog Legion in the future.Article continues belowFinally, more games are getting the "Play Anywhere" treatment that means you can buy a game on your Xbox, PC or "supported handheld" and find it on the others. Is that another hint at the Xbox handheld we heard about recently? Who knows, but for now, big games like Blue Prince and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 are part of Play Anywhere.For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌‌‌

With Prince of Persia, Resident Evil, Minecraft Legends and more, Argos' latest sale on PS5 titles is well worth a look for all kinds of gamer — here are our picksTech17:19, 21 May 2025Updated 17:35, 21 May 2025This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn moreLost Crown was one of the best games of 2024While yesterday we showed you a great deal on the Xbox Series S/X wireless controller, this time we're switching our focus to PlayStation, which is still out in front in the current generation of consoles (and gaining another exclusive from Team Green).Argos has a deal going right now which offers a pair of PS5 games for just £25, and while you may be expecting shovelware, there are some absolute bangers in here.From Far Cry, to Dragon Ball, Assassin's Creed to Warhammer, there's plenty to keep you busy this summer, and with some of them coming in at £20 on their own, it's a big saving, too.Here are some of the best games we've found.Resident Evil 3 is a fun, if short, adventureYou can find the full list at Argos here, and you'll just need to look for that red '2 for £25' label.While there are some kid-friendly titles like Peppa Pig World Adventures and a Fortnite Transformers pack if you're keen, there are some bonafide great games on offer, too.Far Cry 6, for example, is the latest in the open-world shooter series and features Breaking Bad and The Mandalorian star Giancarlo Esposito as its main antagonist Anton Castillo, while you can also grab fellow Ubisoft titles like Assassin's Creed: Valhalla, Skull and Bones, or Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown—the latter of which was one of the best games of 2024.Fishing with a side of cosmic horror? Count us inElsewhere, madcap multiplayer restaurant game Overcooked's All You Can Eat edition is included, as well as spooky fishing game Dredge.Sticking with horror, Resident Evil 3 and Resident Evil 4 Remake are included, meaning you can grab both for £25. In fact, Resident Evil 4 Remake is at its lowest price, while elsewhere Resident Evil 2, Resident Evil 7, and Devil May Cry 5 are part of the deal which means you can add even more games to your Capcom collection.Kids obsessed with the Minecraft movie? We can relate, but thankfully not only is Minecraft included, but Minecraft Legends is, too.Article continues belowRounding up the games that go well together are three Dragon Ball games you can pick and choose between. There's 2D fighter Dragon Ball FighterZ, the action-packed Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2, and the retelling of Goku's story with Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot.For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌

Bungie's Marathon reboot has been under fire for plagiarism of a British artist, and a new report has suggested Sony has set a sales target for the game that could prove challengingTech13:07, 21 May 2025Is Marathon in trouble?Destiny 2 developer Bungie isn't having the best of weeks, despite revealing a series of expansions for the game and preparing for the launch of its Marathon reboot in September.Still, the studio was forced to go back to the literal drawing board in recent days, with an artist claiming much of the game's design language was lifted from her portfolio, including some lifted wholesale.‌Now, Forbes' Paul Tassi, a regular reporter on Bungie, has discussed the high stakes facing the studio. Reports had previously suggested that Bungie is close to being absorbed into Sony and losing its autonomy if it underperforms, and that seems more likely than ever, given the publisher apparently wants the game to hit a high sales target.‌Posting the above video on YouTube where he explains the deep issues with Marathon on multiple levels, and how it's unlikely to be a critical hit, Tassi reveals he's heard Sony is expecting big things."I heard this needed to be in the top 5 of NPD sales for the year if it's going to be a success, or considered a success," he explained.Article continues below"Crazy," he adds, "there's no way".Last year, Sony did have a live service game in the top five NPD (now called Circana) games with Helldivers 2, but that felt like a cultural zeitgeist moment that didn't enter the arena with all of the baggage Marathon now has saddled on it.The gaming community praised Marathon's visuals, but now those are being questioned, too‌Considering 2025 has already seen critical hits like Monster Hunter Wilds and Split Fiction doing well sales-wise, and the Nintendo Switch 2 is launching soon, it seems like a tall mountain for Bungie to climb–especially since it's launching at a $40 price point when many alternatives in the genre are free-to-play.Still, it would be interesting for Sony to push a specific sales number, given that a live service title tends to live or die based on player retention.Over the weekend, Tassi reported that morale at the studio has plummeted.Article continues belowHe said: "Sony and Bungie legal are now sorting through this, and there is unlikely to be any new information as all of this continues to unfold. It is not clear how long an “audit” will take of the assets to remove or find any more plagiarism, as it’s an expansive enough process to have Bungie not even show any footage at all in its recent livestream.""Morale is in 'free-fall” across all departments, and “the vibes have never been worse.” Everyone has the same concerns about what happens to Bungie as a studio if Marathon bombs, which is something they absolutely cannot afford."For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌‌‌

Enterprising GTA 6 fans have put together an impressive interactive map a whole year before the game is due to launch–here's all you need to know about the projectTech14:32, 20 May 2025The new trailer shows a different side of LeonidaGTA 6 will finally launch in just over a year, with a recent delay nudging it back around six months later than its original window.The game, which has been in development for years, now has two trailers packed with detail for fans to dig through, and that means they're able to find plenty of locations.‌Ever the innovators, this has allowed the GTA 6 fanbase to mobilise and put together an incredible interactive map project that really has to be seen to be believed, and could be our best chance yet at taking a look at Vice City and Leonida before we land there next year.‌Here's all you need to know about this impressive project.Over on the ever-growing GTA 6 subreddit, one user posted an update on the GTA 6 Interactive Map, which now comes in English and German and can be found here.Article continues belowPromising over 100 detailed locations, a place to match up screenshots, and all Trailer 1 locations, it's clear the project has been a labour of love."The map is fan-made and based on trailer analysis, leaks and community findings of the map community," the post explains.Jason is the other protagonist of GTA 6‌Some fans have offered to translate the map into other languages including Spanish and Portuguese, while others are amazed."God-tier post," one fan added, while another said "This project keeps getting better, props to everyone involved.""Maximum quality post. Will be coming back to this frequently.‌Previously, fans had turned GTA 5 into GTA 6 via an impressive mod that aimed to recreate Vice City and Leonida's map in the PC version of the game.Sadly, Rockstar shut down the project, but given this latest map isn't playable, we'd imagine it'll stay available for longer.For more on GTA 6, check out how one gaming legend has ruled himself out of the voice cast, while Take-Two's CEO has promised the game will be worth the wait following its recent delay to 2026.Article continues belowFor the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌‌‌

Gamers across the world are stuck without access to Steam following an outage as status monitoring service Downdetector reported a sudden surge of people being unable to access the networkTech23:32, 20 May 2025Updated 00:48, 21 May 2025Steam seems to be down for people across the UK Online video game streaming service Steam has gone down, according to reports, affecting gamers around the world.Almost 4000 reports of people being unable to access the service were logged on Tuesday night, according to Downdetector.‌The majority of the issues so far appear to be reported from users across the UK and Europe, though some based in the United States are also having problems connecting.‌Gamers across the world have flocked to X to voice their frustration. Many simply ranting that "Steam is down again".However, according to some X users, the shutdown is for "maintenance". One user wrote: "Lovely, Steam is down for maintenance again. hey Steam why don't you guys do this s*** when idk ppl are asleep? Just a thought. any how don't matter."The Steam outage happened around 11pm on Tuesday May 20Article continues belowThis comes after PC gamers urged to change Steam password following a breach of 89 million users' data.According to the Underdark post, "a threat actor going by Machine1337 posted on a well-known dark web forum claiming to have breached Steam, offering a dataset of over 89 million user records for $5,000.""The implications here are serious — Steam isn’t just a game platform; it's a treasure trove of personal and financial data tied to users worldwide. If this breach is verified, it could lead to widespread phishing, account takeovers, and targeted attacks across the gaming community."‌The post urges users to enable 2FA if they haven't already, update their passwords, and monitor their emails for suspicious activity.It's worth stressing that Valve's own service has not been breached, but that wherever the leak has come from, it could lead to phishing attempts that could have big consequences for users.If the breach is from a 2FA service, it could allow a bad actor to hijack those requests and gain access to a user's Steam account.‌It's common practice for these kinds of data purchasers to try the same login details on multiple accounts, meaning they could gain access to your email, shopping, or even banking accounts.As a result, we'd suggest changing your Steam account password, while also ensuring it isn't reused elsewhere.Password manager apps can be an ideal tool in these kinds of situations, letting you see at a glance how often you've reused a string of characters.‌A Twilio spokesperson said: "There is no evidence to suggest that Twilio was breached. We have reviewed a sampling of the data found online, and see no indication that this data was obtained from Twilio."The computer game distribution service was first launched in 2003 for games made by Valve. It expanded to include third-party games in 2005. Popular current titles available on Steam include Diablo 4 and Apex Legends.By 2017, game purchases through Steam totaled about US$4.3 billion, or at least 18% of global PC game sales according to Steam Spy.Article continues belowFor the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletter by clicking here.

Nintendo will again attend Gamescom after taking a year off in 2024, and that should mean huge news for anyone picking up a Switch 2 at launch–here's whyTech22:00, 20 May 2025Bananza is visually impressive, with plenty of chaos on screen at once(Image: Nintendo)While the Nintendo Switch 2 seemingly won't see any reviews for the console (or Mario Kart World) until after pre-orders have shipped, we're still absolutely desperate to get our hands on the hybrid system.Part of that is down to its selection of games, which include everything from the aforementioned Mario Kart to Donkey Kong: Bananza and ports of Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, and Wild Hearts S.‌The idea of taking all of those on the go is certainly a tantalising prospect, but Nintendo has been relatively quiet about its first-party offerings for the new system. Now, though, we think we're about to see that change.‌Content cannot be displayed without consentPosting on X (formerly Twitter), Nintendo's German account said, "Mark your calendar in red: Nintendo will be back at @gamescom in 2025."Nintendo skipped Gamescom 2024, likely because it was busy working on Switch 2 before its initial reveal in January 2025.Article continues belowSo, why is this a big deal? As Nintendo's post suggests, Gamescom runs from August 20 to 24, and is the world's largest gaming convention in terms of footfall (seriously, it's massive).Mario Kart World is Nintendo's big Switch 2 launch title(Image: Nintendo)That means it's almost three months after the Switch 2 launches, by which point we'll have played Mario Kart World, as well as Donkey Kong Bananza which is tipped for July.‌So, there's every chance Nintendo will be going big on Metroid Prime 4, which is still without a release date, Pokemon Legends Z-A, and Kirby Air Riders. But what else?Nintendo has traditionally held a June showcase, and it's likely that whatever it showcases there will be what it rolls into Cologne with in August.Given we're still waiting on a new 3D Mario title, could that end up being their focus? Time will tell, but Nintendo gearing up for a Gamescom appearance is an exciting prospect, especially if you've managed to pick up a Switch 2 by then.Article continues belowFor more on Nintendo Switch 2, be sure to check out our favourite Switch 1 games, as well as our most-wanted Switch 2 ports.For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌‌‌

Batman and Superman could be back for another DC Comics dingdong after a leaker suggested Multiversus' cancellation could see a return for Injustice–here's all we've learnedTech16:30, 20 May 2025Batman Vs Superman... againIt's a been a tough time for Warner Bros in recent years. While the giant is behind hits like A Minecraft Movie and is looking forward to a Superman return later this year on the Silver Screen, its gaming division has been struggling.On one hand, Hogwarts Legacy has been a huge success, but an unannounced expansion was cancelled, while the Wonder Woman game that had been in development for years was cancelled entirely, too, with Monolith Productions shutting down alongside Multiversus and its developer Player First Games. And then there's Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League...‌Still, the house that Bugs Bunny built is reportedly looking to bring superheroes back, at least if a new leak is to be believed.‌Content cannot be displayed without consentOver on X (formerly Twitter), MultiverSusie (an account with a strong track history of Multiversus leaks) has left a not-so-subtle hint that Warner Bros could be looking to return to its Injustice series."Multiversus shutting down is an injustice, then doing it all again is another injustice," the post reads.Article continues below"Leaving me without any leaks is yet again another injustice" it adds, following up with the number '3'.You'd have to be pretty bold to start a bar fight with Wonder WomanIt seems pretty likely, then, that Warner Bros is preparing a third entry in the fighting series which was well-received in its first two entries.‌Injustice: Gods Among Us took the 2011 Mortal Kombat entry and retrofitted it in spandex, maintaining much of its brutality with the likes of the Justice League, Zod, and Black Adam.Its sequel was even more ambitious, offering the likes of Atrocitus, Gorilla Grodd and Poison Ivy, as well as DLC including the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Hellboy, and Mortal Kombat's Raiden.It launched in 2017, meaning it's been all too long since we've been able to punch Scarecrow through a building.Article continues belowFor the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌‌‌

The Xbox Series X/S controller is a dependable workhorse for all genres, whether you're playing on console or PC, and you can now save a third at AmazonTech16:34, 20 May 2025This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn moreThere's plenty for Xbox fans to enjoy this year(Image: Bloomberg via Getty Images)While Sony went wild with its Dualsense pad at the start of the current console generation, it'd be fair to say Xbox took an "if it ain't broke" approach.Microsoft's latest systems run the same UI, and they also work with the same controllers from the Xbox One generation.There are slight changes to trigger stiffness and the overall weight, plus the inclusion of a dedicated button for capturing and sharing, but for many, the Xbox pad is just about perfect.Why are we telling you this? Because you can save a third off the RRP at Amazon right now.The Xbox controller is great on PC or console(Image: Future Publishing via Getty Images)Over at Amazon, the Xbox Wireless controller has dropped from £59.99 to £39.95, meaning you can get the pad for 33% off.There are multiple colourways available, but the Robot White looks to be the one with the best discount at the time of writing.If you've ever held an Xbox controller before, it'll feel instantly familiar with its offset sticks, but the D-pad is much better than last generation's.It still uses AA batteries, and while we'd prefer an internal battery like we get on PS5, there's no denying the Xbox controller lasts much, much longer for marathon sessions.Perhaps its greatest strength is that it offers plug-and-play functionality on PC, letting you bring up the Xbox Game Bar with a press of the Xbox button."Experience the modernised design of the Xbox Wireless Controller in Robot White, featuring sculpted surfaces and refined geometry for enhanced comfort during gameplay with battery usage up to 40 hours," the product description explains.The share button is a new addition to the current generation of controller, and means you can snap screenshots or gameplay clips to share with friends on Xbox and beyond. There are others with deals on Xbox controllers such as Argos, who have offers on a range of coloured controllers.Article continues belowLooking for a great PS5 deal? We've covered how the Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree Collector's Edition, with a huge statue, is reduced at Amazon.For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.‌