After five years under NetEase, Grasshopper Manufacture aims for independent expansion into multimedia projects.
In a significant move within the gaming world, Suda51’s Grasshopper Manufacture is breaking away from its parent company, NetEase, to become an independent entity. Known for its distinctive games such as Lollipop Chainsaw, Killer7, and the more recent ROMERO IS A DEAD MAN, Grasshopper plans to expand its reach in the international market as both a developer and publisher. This marks the end of a five-year partnership, during which Grasshopper was under the Chinese conglomerate’s umbrella. [Destructoid]
Developments in the Dutch Gambling Market
There are developments in the Dutch gambling market concerning both regulation and participation. According to a report by GamesHub, VNLOK—an organization focused on regulating the gambling industry—has taken issue with Meta over unlicensed gambling ads proliferating on Facebook in the Netherlands. They claim that over 90% of such ads on the platform are from unauthorized operators. In related news, Bet365, among other operators, has renewed its license in the Dutch market, allowing them to operate legally until September 2031. This highlights ongoing regulatory efforts and the complexities they introduce in managing digital betting spaces. [GamesHub] [GamesHub]
Notable Shifts at Naughty Dog
Naughty Dog seems to be in a state of strategic flux as it plans its next big releases. According to Destructoid, following the release of Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, the studio will reportedly revisit the Uncharted series despite previous statements that suggested the focus was on The Last of Us projects alongside its new IP. This suggests that any new entry in the Uncharted series is still in the early planning stages. It’s an unexpected pivot and adds another layer of intrigue to Naughty Dog’s strategy moving forward. [Destructoid]
Xbox Not for Sale, Microsoft Insists
In corporate news, Microsoft’s gaming division head Asha Sharma firmly denies that the company plans to sell its Xbox unit. This comes amidst swirling rumors and reports that corporate heads were considering the option. Sharma reassures that the focus remains on reinvigorating Xbox through strategic partnerships and operational improvements. This statement seeks to debunk speculation and stabilize perceptions of Xbox’s future within Microsoft’s broader gaming strategy. [The Verge]
Other noteworthy announcements include new additions to Prime Video, like the John Wick and Rocky franchises, and the release of new high-level gameplay footage from Street Fighter 6. Additionally, Stalker 2’s Cost of Hope DLC brings new weapons to the game, offering players fresh experiences in its expansive world. [GameRant] [GameRant] [GameSpot]
