Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (4th July)
This weekend’s gaming roundup comes amid significant industry upheaval. Microsoft’s impending studio closures and layoffs announcement (expected Monday) have dominated headlines, overshadowing Nintendo’s otherwise quiet week which saw the release of Rhythm Heaven Groove and a substantive Splatoon Raiders Direct.
More immediately disruptive is Sony’s announcement that it is discontinuing physical media for PlayStation games, pivoting to digital key cards instead. This marks a significant shift in how PlayStation games will be distributed and owned, eliminating the physical game disc format that has been central to PlayStation since its inception.
Despite the industry-shaking news, gaming communities across platforms are finding ways to unwind. Nintendo Switch players can explore the new Rhythm Heaven Groove, while Xbox players have access to Free Play Days selections and new Xbox Game Pass additions rolling out for July. PlayStation players are encouraged to engage in gaming as a stress-relief during a turbulent week—Aaron Bayne is continuing BioShock 2 while considering Empulse.