Smite 2 Goes Free-to-Play on January 14 (Gaming News)
In this week’s Gaming news, the highly anticipated Smite 2 will officially go free-to-play on January 14 via the PlayStation Store. Having been in early access during a Founders period, where players could pay $30 for exclusive in-game items and early access. This marks a significant milestone for the game.
Smite 2 offers players the chance to embody gods from various mythologies, utilizing unique abilities and engaging in dynamic 5v5 battles. The game combines the thrill of hero shooters with the deep strategy of MOBAs. Featuring immersive visuals powered by Unreal Engine 5, full cross-platform play, and cross-progression, Smite 2 ensures a seamless multiplayer experience. Modes like Conquest and Arena keep gameplay fresh, while the developers remain committed to a player-friendly microtransaction approach—a hallmark of the original game. With over 40 million players having enjoyed the Smite franchise, the launch of Smite 2 promises to usher in a new era for fans.
Like a Dragon: Yakuza in Hawaii Introduces Free New Game Plus
Like a Dragon: Yakuza in Hawaii has received a major update, with Sega confirming that a free New Game Plus mode will be included in a post-release patch. This decision comes after significant backlash against the practice of locking New Game Plus behind paywalls, as seen in previous titles like Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. Sega appears to have taken the criticism seriously, ensuring this feature will now be freely available.
The game, set against the vibrant backdrop of Hawaii, showcases over-the-top naval combat complete with lasers and chaotic beat-’em-up gameplay. The developers have promised a slightly shorter experience compared to previous entries, estimating a 15-20 hour playtime—a perfect length for many players. With its release set amidst a busy gaming season in February, Like a Dragon: Yakuza in Hawaii stands out as a must-play title for fans of the series.
Xbox Developer Direct 2025: What to Expect
The Xbox Developer Direct is scheduled for January 23 at 10 a.m. Pacific Time. While primarily an Xbox event, updates on titles coming to PlayStation 5 are also expected. Highlights include:
- Doom: The Dark Ages
- South of Midnight, a PC and Xbox exclusive from Compulsion Games
- Potential updates on CLA Obscura: Expedition 33, rumored for a June 2025 release
Fans are also speculating about a possible announcement of the long-rumored Oblivion remake. With a promising lineup that includes titles like Fable, Outer Worlds 2, and Clockwork Revolution, Microsoft seems poised for an impressive 2025.
PlayStation and Xbox Gaming News & Leaks for 2025
As 2025 approaches, both PlayStation and Xbox are gearing up for a strong year. PlayStation continues to dominate with consistent releases, while Xbox is showing renewed focus on delivering high-quality first-party titles. The competition between these gaming giants benefits players, ensuring a diverse and exciting slate of games in the coming months.
Fans of narrative-driven RPGs will also find plenty to celebrate. With games like CLA Obscura: Expedition 33 and Like a Dragon: Yakuza in Hawaii, storytelling and immersive gameplay remain key priorities for developers. Additionally,Unreal Engine 5 raises the bar for visuals, creating more lifelike and engaging environments. Cross-platform support emphasizes accessibility and collaboration, fostering a more inclusive gaming community.
