Sony mistakenly blocked the PS5 release of the highly-rated Stonks-9800, confusing its developer with shovelware producers.
In an unexpectedly puzzling move, Sony has blocked the release of the game Stonks-9800 on the PS5. As reported by PlayStation Lifestyle, this decision stems from Sony’s ongoing effort to purge shovelware from the PS Store, which led to the misunderstanding with the game’s developer, Ternox Games, being wrongly classified as a shovelware creator. Originally a hit on PC with an “overwhelmingly positive” rating, Stonks-9800 was planned for release on multiple consoles, including Xbox and Nintendo, but now faces an uncertain future on Sony’s platform. The incident highlights the delicate balancing act required for platforms seeking to maintain quality control without stifling legitimate developers.
Sony’s Digital Direction Sparks Backlash
Sony’s recent announcement to cease disc manufacturing for PlayStation platforms from January 2028 has continued to generate strong reactions. As Push Square explains, despite the initial uproar gradually subsiding, Sony’s new ‘It Happens on PS5’ advertising campaign, focused on digital experiences, still faces criticism online, regardless of its content. This push towards a fully digital gaming future remains contentious among players who value physical media.
The Sinking City 2 – A New Direction
Push Square offers a review of The Sinking City 2, characterizing it as a ‘Resident Evil-lite’ experience. Frogwares, known for its elaborate detective and investigative mechanics in titles like Sherlock Holmes, takes a new direction with this sequel. The game sheds its traditional mechanics for fresh gameplay elements, representing a significant shift in approach from the development team and likely aiming to attract a new audience of action-adventure fans.
Other Developments
- PlayStation Lifestyle reports that the celebrated TCG Card Shop Simulator will soon debut on PS5, exiting Early Access with a full release across multiple platforms.
- The Mafia: The Omerta Collection, a new PS5 action game collection, is currently half-off for PlayStation Plus subscribers until August 28, as detailed by PlayStation Lifestyle.
- An unannounced and now-cancelled Star Wars action RPG by the closed Echtra Games has surfaced online, offering a glimpse into a game that will never see the light of day, as covered by Push Square.
