The publisher is now working with a fan-funded competitor to Diablo 4, but they are now afraid

Diablo 4 and Path of Exile both had only themselves as competitors. With Last Epoch, another candidate came into the ARPG genre that could get involved, but the studio behind the game had no publisher – until now.

What kind of game is Last Epoch? Last Epoch is a new ARPG that wants to compete with the big brands Diablo 4 and Path of Exile since its release in 2024. The game initially struggled to establish itself, but with its first season, it managed to regain the trust of its fans. Above all, due to the good progression, its endgame, and the great crafting.

But before its 1.0 release, Last Epoch was a Kickstarter project (Source: kickstarter.com) that was funded by passionate fans. The studio behind the ARPG still did not have a publisher like Diablo 4 and Path of Exile to finance itself after its major release. The studio was therefore looking for a partner and only recently they even found one.

Start video
Last Epoch shows Season 3 in the teaser trailer of Hunters and Prey switch

Good news for fans, but they are not happy

What has been revealed? In a large blog post, the game director of Last Epoch wrote about the future of the studio. It mainly discussed the recently mentioned financing and how the studio plans to move forward to survive (Source: forum.lastepoch.com).

The studio had actively been looking for a partner in the past year to realize the dream of becoming the best ARPG ever. Many conversations were held with potential partners, but only one could stand out, and that is Krafton.

For those who do not know Krafton: They are the company behind the battle royale “PUBG” – the competitor of Fortnite and Warzone. According to the game director, Krafton could offer exactly what they are looking for to achieve their goals and solve problems they have encountered over time.

One might think this is good news, as more content could be produced and Last Epoch could be better developed thanks to Krafton, but fans are skeptical.

How are fans reacting? If you look under the forum post, the news is met with mixed feelings. Krafton is not popular among many gamers, and there are many reasons for this, mainly due to their monetization methods and the debacle surrounding Subnautica 2. Here’s what can be heard:

  • “I had to Google Krafton because I didn’t know who they are, and I’ve never played PUBG. I played Tera and know how bad that was and how much money was made from it. There is nothing online indicating that they have anything to do with the ARPG scene. I’m not looking forward to it at all.” – PKERJOCK
  • “… I don’t like where this is headed. Only time will tell.” – ShadowDweller
  • “Well, I mean, for you as a studio and a company, it’s probably a good thing, but for us players, this is one of the worst possible outcomes.” – BokuHagath
  • “Krafton? Wow, that’s a bold step considering what’s happening right now and how the past generally looks. I personally have no trust in Krafton – good luck!” – HoodedTurtle

It remains to be seen how much Krafton will interfere in the development of Last Epoch, but so far the joyful news has not been well received. Apart from that, the ARPG is preparing for the release of its new season. You can find out more about this here: Path of Exile 2’s competition announces new season, but fans already have a concern

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

In Career Mode of EA FC 26, coaches can now also change teams – and that makes every season exciting

In the new Career Mode of EA FC 26, there will be a dynamic Manager Market. This is intended to create more excitement from season to season. An EA employee explained the significant change for the Career Mode in detail in an interview.

What do the new manager transfers mean for Career Mode? The dynamic transfer market for managers represents the biggest innovation for the popular single-player mode. Until now, only players could be transferred on the market.

The manager transfers represent a new and simultaneously more realistic adjustment. In real football, it is often the case that when success is lacking, the coach is the first to pack their bags and a search begins for a new manager who can lead the club back to success.

Since EA FC 25, thanks to FC IQ, every coach has a predefined tactical setup that can be applied like a template to any club. This concept is now also intended to ensure that clubs looking for a new tactical approach can find a suitable coach on the transfer market in Career Mode.

In an interview with the well-known German FC-25 content creator Simon “GamerBrother” Schildgen, one of the EA heads responsible for Career Mode, Andreas Wilsdorf, explained how the Manager Market will work in FC 26.

Start video
Deep Dive trailer on gameplay shows 2 different gameplays and numerous adjustments

With manager transfers, every season is different, even in the 10th year

This is how manager transfers create more dynamics: According to Wilsdorf, the underlying idea behind the innovation is to have a varied gaming experience even in season 10. For example, a Pep Guardiola after 8 seasons at Manchester City could also say that he is looking for a new challenge at a new club.

Similarly, veteran managers can also announce their retirement. Unsuccessful coaches can be dismissed by the club, while successful coaches at smaller clubs can also become interesting for larger or the biggest clubs.

The vacancies created or the demand for the most successful coaches ensure that clubs can await you with new tactics and new player personnel from season to season. The new tactical focuses that a coach brings also change the transfer strategy of the clubs in the player market.

How do manager transfers work in Career Mode? Each coach has a rating in Career Mode, just like a player. The manager rating is not visible to the players, but it helps the AI behind the scenes to assess a coach’s standing in the transfer market. The rating for coaches is dynamic and is influenced by the following factors:

  • Performance of the manager at their current club: How successful is the manager?
  • Moral of the players: How does the manager treat their players?
  • Financial situation: How does the manager handle the budget at the club?
  • Successful transfers: How do the players signed by the manager perform?

For a coach to be interesting for other clubs, the playing style of the club must fundamentally match the tactical approach of the manager. As an example, Wilsdorf mentions that an offensively oriented club like FC Barcelona would not hire a coach with a destructive playing style like José Mourinho.

Manager Market turns no-names into tomorrow’s stars

What is special about the dynamic Manager Market? If vacant managerial positions cannot be filled adequately, previous assistant coaches could also take a seat on the bench as an interim solution. If they then manage to bring the club back to success, the previous shadow coaches may eye a permanent position.

This means that coaches we don’t even know yet could coach the biggest clubs in the world after 2, 3, or 4 seasons. Whether assistant coaches are already licensed and have been given their own game face is currently unknown.

Speaking of licenses: Aside from coach Kompany at FC Bayern, EA does not have licenses for Bundesliga coaches. However, EA employee Wilsdorf has hinted that all managers for the Bundesliga can be edited in Career Mode to create the most realistic gaming experience possible.

More information on Career Mode will be released in early August 2025 in the appropriate Deep Dive trailer. Further innovations are also expected to be presented. GamerBrother, as an avid Career Mode fan, has already praised the new Manager Market before the interview. He calls for 2 more changes that could make the mode even better.

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

NNO founder Broeki quits HandOfBlood’s LoL team: “This has really brought me down”

The founder of NNO, Broeki, has been playing League of Legends for over 10 years, both casually and professionally. Recently, he was used as a botlaner for HandOfBlood’s team. Now he is stepping away from playing there and discusses the reasons.

What is HandOfBlood’s LoL team? In 2021, the YouTuber and Twitch streamer HandOfBlood founded the organization Eintracht Spandau (EINS). With EINS, he aimed to shake up the esports scene and put together a team of LoL players. The team’s biggest success was achieving first place in the 2024 Spring EMEA Masters EMEA Masters (liquidpedia.net).

Why is Broeki stopping playing for EINS? In a YouTube video from the organization, Broeki and his EINS colleague talk about the reasons he is stepping away.

In the video, it is said that he was “benched”, meaning that he is leaving the LoL team due to performance issues, but he is not completely distancing himself from Eintracht Spandau. In the current Summer Split of the Prime League, EINS has yet to win any of the 6 matches played (liquidpedia.net).

What has been weighing on Broeki? Broeki talks about various things that have been weighing him down. In addition to declining viewer numbers, which are existential for him as a streamer, he has gone through a breakup. Broeki himself says that during this tough phase he lost his “drive”, meaning his ambition and motivation.

Due to his insufficient training, he performed worse than his opponents more often and realized himself that he was simply playing too poorly. Due to frustration, he also misbehaved in scrims (practice matches against other teams), as he noted himself.

Over 10 years ago, Broeki drew attention to himself with his behavior when he drove many players away from the German scene and then founded his own team, NNO.

In the video, you can see the trailer for Season 2 of 2025 in League of Legends:

Start video
The launch trailer for the new Season 2 2025 in League of Legends

Broeki is no longer playing for EINS, but is still a part of it

What is Broeki doing instead at Eintracht Spandau? In the same video about his end as ADC of HandOfBlood’s LoL team, the two discuss Broeki’s future within the organization. Broeki will continue as a caster, covering EINS’s games and also commenting on the upcoming relegation.

What do his fans say about it? Under the video, there are many comments with supportive words for Broeki. The user 123STK123 writes:

Given the absences, etc., in the last months, a bench player like Broekmann would be an incredible asset for the cast. Also as far as game knowledge, tactics, etc. are concerned. I thought it was great that he was on the team. But hey, it’s not a shame to acknowledge that others are better. You did your best, even in tough times.

Another user named bimraven writes that he is glad to have Broeki as a caster and that he is a significant gain for the club. He adds that he would look forward to a cast with Broeki and the substitute jungler Jokaa, as bimraven believes they are the most entertaining players from the EINS roster.

Broeki himself was a rather unpleasant player over 10 years ago. After no one wanted to play with him in the German LoL scene anymore, he simply formed his own team and called it NNO. The former jungler of the Renter roster, Agurin, has once again drawn attention to his behavior in LoL and has not learned from his mistakes: German Twitch streamer banned in LoL for being too toxic, promises improvement, but continues as before

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

New survival game on Steam reminiscent of Medieval Dynasty allows you to build your own medieval village – Now you can play it yourself

On Steam, you can currently dive into a new survival game that strongly resembles Medieval Dynasty. It is being developed in Germany.

Which game is being referred to? This refers to Medieval Frontiers, developed by the Munich-based Active Fungus Studios. According to the developers, it is a “first-person village-building game” where you create a new home in a remote medieval world.

Steam is currently running the campaign “Games forged in Germany”. This puts a spotlight on video games from Germany. As part of this campaign, Medieval Frontiers released a playtest on July 24. Until August 7, you can try an early version of the game on Steam.

You can watch a trailer for the game here:

Start video
Medieval Frontiers: Trailer for the new survival game in the style of “Medieval Dynasty”

Surviving in a Harsh Medieval World

What is the game about? In Medieval Frontiers, you start alone in a wild and remote valley. There, you gather resources to build your new home. Later, you will also meet other people. You can bring them to you and establish a small village together. 

At first glance, it all looks very much like Medieval Dynasty. However, this could also spell trouble for the game. After all, Medieval Dynasty has years of development and content updates behind it. The bar is likely set higher for Medieval Frontiers than it was for Dynasty.

  • “This looks like the same game as all the others with this theme. What sets it apart from Medieval Dynasty?” asks @EliotJohnson under a trailer on YouTube

How Medieval Frontiers plays and whether it can distinguish itself from Medieval Dynasty may be revealed in the current playtest. According to the developers, it includes on Steam:

  • The early mechanics of settlement building
  • Gathering resources, crafting materials, and building a small settlement
  • The challenges and hardships of life on the frontier
  • Other survivors you can find in the wilderness

Of course, this is still an early version of the game. Bugs and performance issues can be expected.

Survival games invite you to spend a lot of time with them. Recently, MeinMMO reported about a player who invested a five-figure number of hours into such a game – yet still leaves a negative review. Why, you can read here: Player has 35,000 hours in a survival game on Steam, now advises against purchasing because a patch ruined everything

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

Developer on Steam creates a small game in 2 months, sells it for 3€ and is now a millionaire

On Steam, there are always various indie gems that go viral and generate a lot of attention in a short time. One of these games is Bugshot Roulette. The developer of the title recently reported on his sudden success and how the hit has changed his life.

What kind of game is Bugshot Roulette? Bugshot Roulette is a small indie game with rustic graphics. In the game, you find yourself in an underground club and play a round of Russian Roulette with a shady character, the dealer.

As a weapon, a shotgun is used instead of a revolver. The dealer loads the shotgun with blanks and real bullets. Whoever lasts until the end wins the game. If you get eliminated, you have to start over. The game can also be played in multiplayer mode with other players.

Bugshot Roulette was created by just one developer. He himself stated in an interview that success was not his goal. But now, almost 2 years after release, he has sold over 6 million units and is a millionaire.

Start video
Buckshot Roulette reinvents Russian Roulette and shows it in the release trailer

“The right game at the right time.”

What does the developer say about his success? In an interview with the American gaming site gamesradar+, Mike Klubnika, the solo dev of Buckshot Roulette, was asked about his success and how it has changed his life.

However, not much has changed for him: “I can fully focus on game development and don’t have to worry too much about the commercial side. I feel like I can develop an idea for a game and implement it at my own pace, knowing it’s not a big deal if it doesn’t sell well or reach enough players.”

Moreover, he has never cared much about success. As he further explains, he never thought about sales: “But it’s also not really different from before, because I never really thought about what if I release this game and it doesn’t sell well? I didn’t even sell that many games. It was more like: What if there are no downloads? I am very grateful for that.”

Appropriately to his success, there was a question on how Mike Klubnik explains the surprising success. On this question, he has a clear answer: “I think, in general, it’s obviously just luck. The right game at the right time. My final theory is that gambling is a lot of fun.”

What is Mike Klubnik doing now? Although his surprising success has led to a considerable fortune, it is not the end for him. He has developed a new game – s.p.l.i.t.

In this game, you take on the role of a hacker who chats with various technicians to execute his plan. The dark atmosphere, rustic graphics, and self-made soundtrack are definitely striking.

Whether s.p.l.i.t will also be a huge success remains to be seen. Another indie game that also became a massive success is Schedule 1. In this game, you take on the role of a drug dealer and build your empire to earn money: Developer asks on reddit if a silly name ruins his game, now has a huge hit on Steam

(The title image is only a symbolic image and does not represent the actual developer.)

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

Patch 7.3 of Final Fantasy XIV has a date; Bringing new dungeon in the most beautiful area of the game

Patch 7.3 for Final Fantasy XIV is on the horizon: Square Enix plans to release the update in early August, completing the main story of Dawntrail. Additionally, there will be many new contents, such as updates for field explorations and a new dungeon in the most beautiful area of the game.

When is Patch 7.3 coming? The next major content patch for Final Fantasy XIV goes live on Tuesday, August 6, 2025. This keeps Square Enix true to the 4-month rhythm and delivers fresh content on time, which was further presented in the 88th Live Letter.

As usual, there will be a new chapter of the main story, which will end the narrative arc of the Dawntrail expansion this time. With Patch 7.4, the preparations for the next expansion will then begin. There will also be a new dungeon, a new trial, and a new Variant Dungeon: A deep cavern in Il Mheg, one of the most beautiful areas of the game.

The trailer for the patch provides initial insights:

Start video
Final Fantasy XIV: Neuer Trailer zu Patch 7.3 macht Bock auf „The Promise of Tomorrow“

New Dungeons, Trials, and Fan Requests

What are the new contents? On release on August 5, Patch 7.3 will bring the first fresh content for this patch cycle. Here’s what to expect:

  • New main story
  • New dungeon
  • New trial
  • New alliance raid to Echoes from Vana’diel: San D’Oria: The second stage
  • New PvP arena
  • New treasure map dungeon: Treasure Oneiron
  • NPC support for the dungeon Cutters Cry
  • Extended headgear support for Viera and Hrothgar
  • Chat bubble feature

The latter is a new feature that already exists as an external, player-created extension — its use was not previously allowed. However, the feature was so popular that it is now becoming an official part of the game. The text written in the chat appears above the head of the player character who said it — similar to what is already common with NPCs in combat content. The feature is particularly popular in the RP community.

In addition, there is also an update for the field operation Kreszentia: Starting with Patch 7.3, players will be able to start in exclusive instances with existing groups of 24 players. After five minutes, it will be displayed which players qualify for the Fork Tower. For each player, an Arcane Seal of Blood must be sacrificed at the sealing lantern.

This could be a response to player feedback, as it has been quite challenging to unlock the Fork Tower in the regular instances until now.

What’s coming in the subsequent minor patches? After the large influx of content with Patch 7.3, updates 7.31 (approximately one month after Patch 7.3) and 7.35 (approximately two months after 7.3) are on the horizon. Here’s what to expect:

Patch 7.31:

  • New zone for cosmic explorations: Phaenna
  • New level for the phantom weapons

Patch 7.35:

  • New Deep Dungeon: Pilgrims’ Path
  • New friendly race of Yok Huy (crafters and gatherers)
  • More Hildibrand adventures

The new deep dungeon will be located in Il Mheg, a region that was introduced with the Shadowbringers expansion and is inspired by western high fantasy. Here, fairies and their king reside. The latter wishes for the Warrior of Darkness to explore the remnants of a church.

Prerequisites are that the Palace of the Dead is completed at Level 50 and the quest Endschreiter is finished. Starting level is 91.

As soon as there are new updates about the patch, you will of course read it on MeinMMO. Until then, you can entertain yourselves with our articles about the MeinMMO grindfest. We conducted an interview with Naoki Yoshida, analyzed the polygon count of the flower pots in 1.0, and checked if a restart in the game is still worthwhile in 2025. You can find all articles, including those about other MMORPGs, here: Welcome to the Grindfest! The program for the big MMORPG theme week 2025 by MeinMMO

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Source(s):
  1. Nova Crystallis
  2. X

A MMORPG introduced the very first mounts and it was not WoW

Mounts or riding animals have become an integral part of many MMORPGs. But which online role-playing game actually had the very first ones? And what was it like? We will explore this question in the context of our MMORPG-theme week.

What role do mounts play in MMORPGs? Mounts provide not only functional value in MMORPGs, but they also ensure stylistic individuality. Primarily, they serve as a means of transportation to traverse the game worlds more quickly, but for many players, they are also trophies and status symbols.

Many mounts are rare and can be painstakingly earned, while others can be purchased in a shop for real money. In some MMORPGs, you can also fight on them, fly with them, or use them as additional storage.

The Grind Fest from July 21 to 27
During this week, we will present exciting articles every day on the topic of MMORPGs. Included: a journey through the history of online role-playing games, as well as nostalgic reflections, streaming nights, interviews, columns, and analyses.

Here is the program for the big MMORPG theme week 2025 by MeinMMO

In short: Mounts are more than just a means of transportation – they are a mix of tool, medium of expression, and reward that significantly shapes the gameplay of many MMORPGs.

All the more, the question arises: Who actually started this, and what was it like back then?

Here you can see, for example, the rarest mounts in World of Warcraft:

Start video
6 of the rarest mounts in WoW – Do you own them?

Back to a time when mounts were still living beings

The answer takes us back to the year 1997: Specifically, to the launch of the MMORPG Ultima Online. For UO is not only the very first MMORPG ever to be officially titled as such, but also the first to introduce mounts into the game.

Players could directly at launch buy or tame horses, llamas, or other animals – all without any level requirement. These mounts were not mere means of transportation, but physically anchored in the game world. If you dismounted and were not careful, the animal could be stolen or killed. Mounts could thus actually be lost, which gave them real weight in the game’s progression. To secure them, one had to place them in a stable.

Moreover, riding was tied to skills such as “Animal Taming” or “Animal Lore,” allowing certain animals to be used only with appropriate effort. Thus, mounts in Ultima Online became not only practical helpers but also valuable possessions and status symbols that needed to be watched over.

At the beginning, the mounts in Ultima Online were primarily means of transportation in the form of horses, llamas, and ostriches that players could buy or tame. Later, special mounts were added that came with unique abilities, such as those that could assist in battle or serve as additional pack animals.

In 2001, the developers introduced mounts that did not require physical space and could be summoned. These so-called Ethereal Mounts could be obtained as a veteran reward after reaching a certain account duration (via Ultima Online).

Meanwhile, mounts have become an indispensable part of most MMORPGs. And admittedly, these companions are not only practical but also pretty cool. No wonder many players aim to collect as many as possible.

By the way, Ultima Online was indeed the first MMORPG that was officially labeled as such, but there were also earlier contenders that shaped the genre. So the question of the first MMORPG is not so easy to answer. That’s why we explored it in this article: What was actually the first MMORPG?

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

A developer wanted to create a team game that is not toxic, his approach: “I use your ego as a weapon against you”

A developer admits that it was his job to manipulate players psychologically. He was supposed to develop a novel system that unfortunately never made it to the final phase.

What kind of system would that have been? In the Reddit forum, user EjnarH introduces the system he was supposed to develop for the Danish game developer BetaDwarf for a MOBA. Since his non-disclosure agreement (NDA) has expired and he is leaving the gaming industry, he talks about his novel system in the forum:

  • Players should be able to distribute likes and honors. The honors could have been awarded for specific qualities and only in a limited daily number. Examples would be “great communication” or “awesome teamwork.”
  • In this way, players would build their own reputation and encounter other players more often who also received many honors.
  • The honors from their own friends should also play a role here and be displayed.

The goal: Players should not feel like they have to prove their worth in every game. According to the developer, this pressure leads to toxicity in games. Even if players have a bad day, they should not be harshly judged.

With the honors, at least the foundation would have been secured that players usually play well. If they still play poorly, it could have been dismissed as an exception. The developer states that he would have tricked the players with their own egos:

Suddenly, the player who plays the worst is someone you already know you have given 4 honors because you happened to meet him in his best moments. You’re not stupid, are you? It’s much easier to accept that the person is just having a bad game and might need some support. (Yes, I use your ego as a weapon against you. Deal with it.)

In the meantime, they have switched their model from MOBA to PvPvE co-op extraction. In this genre, there are other issues to address than those that the developer’s system was supposed to fix.

What do others say about it? The top commentator sees it as a double-edged sword. On one hand, you would be proud of your honors. On the other hand, people would be judged based on their behavior, and it could then be too quick to judge other players who don’t have many ratings yet.

The problem with the toxic community can also be transferred to other genres. A WoW newcomer was also afraid of his fellow players but found that they are not that mean: “The community is not toxic at all” – WoW newcomer is amazed that everyone is so nice

If a player did not receive an honor, it could simply have been that the daily limit was reached.

Start video
The new trailer for the event ‘Hall of Legends’ of 2025 in League of Legends

The system unfortunately ended quickly

What would it have been good for? The system would have ensured that matchmaking would be less toxic. By encountering your recommended players more often, there would have been less reason to complain. This would have benefited MOBAs like League of Legends, which are known for their toxic community.

At the same time, friendships could have formed even faster. Through recommendations from friends, a larger circle could have been built.

It would also have been a practical system for guilds: New applicants could have used their honors as a “resume,” allowing guild leaders to directly know who they are dealing with.

Why was it never released? The investors would have been enthusiastic about BetaDwarf’s idea. However, due to the currently very tense situation in Europe, the investors eventually backed out, causing the project to go through difficult times.

In the meantime, they have switched their model from MOBA to PvPvE co-op extraction. In this genre, there are other issues to address than those that the developer’s system was supposed to fix.

What do others say about it? The top commentator sees it as a double-edged sword. On one hand, you would be proud of your honors. On the other hand, people would be judged based on their behavior, and it could then be too quick to judge other players who don’t have many ratings yet.

The problem with the toxic community can also be transferred to other genres. A WoW newcomer was also afraid of his fellow players but found that they are not that mean: “The community is not toxic at all” – WoW newcomer is amazed that everyone is so nice

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

Even before the start of the long-awaited beta of Blue Protocol, the anime MMORPG annoys with its monetization

The new MMORPG Blue Protocol: Star Resonance has finally announced its beta test after years of waiting. However, monetization is already causing issues.

When does the beta start? Since July 24, 2025, fans of Blue Protocol: Star Resonance can sign up for the beta. The registration is open until August 14. Between August 15 and August 20, players will be notified by email whether they will gain access to the beta.

The beta is expected to run for 10 days, but the exact start date is still unknown. However, it is assumed that the start date will not be long after the notification. To sign up, players must first complete a questionnaire (via google.com) and be selected. Not all players will receive a spot.

Here you can watch the trailer for the beta of Blue Protocol: Star Resonance:

Start video
Blue Protocol: Star Resonance shows a mix of action and teamwork in the new trailer

Concerns About Monetization

What is the issue with monetization? The developers of Blue Protocol: Star Resonance have also stated in their beta announcement that players will have the option to top up real money during this test, which will then be available to them in the game later.

Those who do this during the beta and do not wait for the release will receive attractive bonuses. Players can obtain up to 50% more in-game currency through advance purchases. However, the bonus is capped at a maximum amount of $450 (approximately €383, as of 10:10 AM, July 25, 2025). After that, there will only be a 25% bonus on purchases. There is no maximum amount that players can spend.

The developers themselves also do not refer to it as a regular closed beta, but as a “paid closed beta test with data deletion”. Everything you earn during the beta will be deleted afterwards.

Why is there anger? Fans who have waited for years for the new anime MMORPG are visibly annoyed by the possibility of spending money in the beta and the bonus earnings of up to $450. In a post on Reddit, they express themselves accordingly:

  • Spriggz_z7z: “This sounds terrible and has killed my interest. If we start this way, I don’t want to see what happens at release.”
  • TurntHermit: “I’ve been waiting for this game since I built my ‘Pandemic Rig’ in 2019… this has really killed my excitement for the beta…”

Other players, however, have fewer issues with the monetization:

  • StarReaver: “The upside is that those who wanted to spend money anyway are basically being paid to test the game by receiving in-game currency. And all of this will carry over into the actual game. It’s much better than paying $120 for an alpha test of a game and getting nothing if the game ever comes out.”
  • ItsTheSolo: “It’s common nowadays for CBTs to offer refunds [bonuses] (Destiny Rising just did that too). I’m not saying it’s okay or not reprehensible, but it’s also not a new practice.”
  • archefayte: “This is also industry standard for Chinese and eastern mobile MMOs. I don’t care as long as the monetization is not strictly performance-based.”

The fact that the long-awaited anime MMORPG seems to adopt a more eastern approach to monetization clearly bothers players in the West. Whether it can score with quality in the beta remains to be seen. According to the developers, there will be no P2W: No P2W and focus on PvE: This is how the MMORPG Blue Protocol wants to impress you in the West

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

The strongest ally of the Guardians of the Galaxy is not Groot, but a silly guy with color on his face

In the third part of Guardians of The Galaxy, Marvel fans could finally see the character Adam Warlock on the big screen for the first time. In the movie, he is presented as a silly character, but he is actually a pretty powerful ally.

Who is Adam Warlock? In Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 3, he is first introduced, played by Will Poulter. Although he seems to be quite strong, he has a rather silly demeanor.

He has bizarre scenes with his mother, his golden facial color doesn’t look particularly epic and overall he behaves like a comedic character, fitting for the Guardians. However, Adam Warlock is a powerful figure in the comics, who is not only a strong hero among the Guardians.

In Marvel Rivals, he is a playable character:

Start video
Marvel Rivals: The launch trailer for the shooter featuring Marvel superheroes on PS5 and Steam

Space Jesus

What is Adam Warlock anyway? His first appearance, still without the name Adam Warlock, was in 1967 in the comic Fantastic Four No. 66. He was created by researchers who wanted to create the perfect being. After a conflict with Thor, he had to return to his cocoon to regenerate.

The High Revolutionary, who is also the villain in the 3rd Guardians of the Galaxy, found him, gave him the Soul Stone, one of the most powerful objects in the Marvel Universe and the name Warlock. The teenager Ellie Roberts, whom Warlock met, added the Adam. As Comics Explained on YouTube explains, he was created as Space-Jesus. A term that fans still use today (via Reddit).

Adam Warlock freed Counter-Earth, a planet created by the High Revolutionary, and became a hero. Through his connection with the Soul Stone, he played a significant role in the Infinity Gauntlet storyline in the comics. Sometimes he fought against Thanos, sometimes alongside him, to save the universe.

Adam Warlock also has his own problems. One of his adversaries is Magus. This is a mad and evil future version of him, which Warlock could only defeat with the help of Gamora and Thanos. He captured the soul of his vile variant in his Soul Stone, even though Magus returns irregularly.

More powerful than he looks

How strong is Adam Warlock? Even in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Adam Warlock shows that he is quite a strong hero, but in the comics, his role is even more relevant. He represents a counterbalance to Thanos and is responsible for the balance in the universe. Thanos was once the avatar of death, Adam the avatar of life.

Throughout his long history, he has been able to keep up with many heroes and villains and inflict damage on them. These include Thor, Drax, the Silver Surfer, and Mephisto.

Adam Warlock has died multiple times, but he has also been revived through his cocoon several times. When he returns, he not only comes back, he evolves.

What abilities does he have?

  • Because of his artificial origin, he possesses high physical abilities, granting him superhuman strength, speed, reflexes, and endurance
  • Adam Warlock can fly
  • Due to his cell structure, he can regenerate quickly
  • He has a symbiotic relationship with the Soul Stone
  • Additionally, he can manipulate energy and magic and use telepathy
  • He is also able to perceive things in the universe and other timelines

Adam Warlock is practically immortal, and as seen in his history, he always comes back, even when he has been killed.

Why is he so silly in the MCU? His childish behavior and the significant reference to his mother in the film stem from the fact that he was awakened too early by the High Revolutionary. Despite the warnings, the villain used him to find Rocket Raccoon. Even though Thanos occasionally helps, he is a hell on earth for a simple guy: For almost 50 years, the Marvel villain Thanos has visited a poor guy on his birthday just to annoy him.

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

While Bill Gates sleeps, he earns almost 15 million dollars night after night, yet his fortune is dwindling

Bill Gates is no longer among the wealthiest people in the world, yet still earns incredible sums. However, his fortune follows its own rules, even as it slowly decreases.

Most know him as the co-founder of Microsoft, the company that has shaped our digital world with Windows: Bill Gates. Since he stepped back from the day-to-day operations of Microsoft in 2008, he has primarily focused on charitable projects. He concentrates on the Gates Foundation, which works globally on health, education, and the fight against poverty. It was founded in 2000 by Bill and Melinda Gates.

How a developer carved his own path to success despite not earning money for a legendary game can be seen in this video.

Start video
He created a legendary game, but didn’t get paid for it – Today he’s still a millionaire

When Money Is No Longer the Goal

What is the status of Gates’ fortune? According to current numbers from Bloomberg from July 2025, Bill Gates’ fortune stands at around $124 billion. This is significantly less than it was a few years ago, yet still an unimaginable sum. Gates is therefore no longer among the ten wealthiest people in the world. However, his name remains inextricably linked to enormous wealth.

In the first week of July 2025 alone, Gates lost about $51 billion. However, this was not due to bad investments but through a large-scale asset transfer to his own foundation, as reported by the Economic Times.

Why is his wealth shrinking? Despite these gigantic numbers, Bill Gates’ fortune has decreased in recent years. The reason is not bad investments, but primarily his charitable donations. In May 2025, Gates announced in a personal statement on Gates Notes that he intends to donate 99% of his wealth through the Gates Foundation by 2045. Bloomberg has since adjusted its wealth index to account for Gates’ planned donations more accurately. As a result, his net worth has significantly declined.

As also reported by 3DJuegos, the focus is not on the money, but on the attempt to create something sustainable with wealth. This conscious redistribution of his wealth is the main reason that his fortune continues to shrink despite high yields. Despite the decline in wealth, current estimates show that Gates continues to generate enormous returns from his investments. However, the exact amount fluctuates and is not publicly documented.

Despite all these incredible sums, Bill Gates appears surprisingly down-to-earth in everyday life. While his wealth grows through investments, and he continues to give it away in billions, he personally lives rather modestly. Gates drives an inexpensive electric car – an electric Fiat 500, which he once received as a gift from singer Bono. For one of the richest people in the world, this seems almost absurd, yet it fits the image Gates wants to convey today. Not to flaunt wealth, but to use it wisely.

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Source(s):
  1. Bloomberg
  2. 3DJuegos

The “Message to Ben” even reaches the developers of Dune: Awakening, now the community is celebrating a happy ending

In Dune: Awakening, players tried to reach “Ben”. Even the developers had a go, and it seems with success.

What is the “Message to Ben”? The story of Ben and his neighbor has touched many players of Dune: Awakening. A neighbor searched for “Ben”, the first player with whom he ever spoke in a video game. One day, as the neighbor drives past “Ben”‘s base, he notices that the power is out.

It’s a sad realization for the neighbor since they never exchanged contact information. In a moment of desperation, the neighbor then writes his “Message to Ben” on Reddit, informing him that the power is out, in case Ben reads it.

However, the story behind it warmed the hearts of the community, so much so that the post not only went viral but also inspired other players to try creative ways to contact Ben. But for days, nothing happened until the developers tried.

Start video
Spieler schafft das Unmögliche in Dune: Awakening auf Steam, reitet auf einem Sandwurm durch die Wüste

The developers help the neighbor

What did the developers do? In the patch notes for patch 1.0.0.17.0, the developers wrote a message to Ben. They stated: “Ben, if you read this, your base power is out.” They reference the story that touched the community so much.

And indeed: Ben apparently read the message. On the evening of the patch day, the neighbor saw light in Ben’s base again. Of course, he went right over to talk to him and exchange contact details.

What does Ben say about the action? Ben seems to have been completely unaware of the many attempts to reach him. According to the neighbor, Ben does not have Reddit and did not see the many contact attempts there. According to the neighbor (via Reddit), it seems that the message from the developers in the patch notes made the difference.

One of his friends is said to have pointed him to the patch notes. Ben’s reaction: “No way it’s about me,” yet he logged in with his friends afterwards and found out that it really was about him.

By now, Ben is aware of all the commotion regarding him and wants to speak up on Reddit soon.

The Dune: Awakening community celebrates the gathering on Reddit. In many comments, players express their joy and hope that a friendship will develop from this action.

Besides the “Message to Ben”, there are also other positive stories in Dune: Awakening. One example is an artist who built Pikachu and a sandworm: Player creates their own Pikachu in Dune: Awakening, lets it get eaten by a greedy sandworm

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Source(s):
  1. Reddit

EA leaks the release date of Battlefield 6, quickly deletes it again – apparently comes earlier than expected

The release date of Battlefield 6 is known. EA accidentally published it. The shooter is coming this year.

When is Battlefield 6 going to be released? The release of Battlefield 6 is apparently on October 10, 2025, which is in just under 2.5 months.

Where does the information come from? EA first released a trailer for Battlefield 6 on July 24, 2025, sharing first impressions of the shooter’s story campaign. The trailer was accompanied by the game’s website going live. On the website, there was a disclaimer revealing the release date.

The disclaimer stated that there would be a pre-order, but the pre-order offer would end on October 10, 2025. “Pre-order offers often end on the release day of a game.” EA has since taken the page with the disclaimer offline (see ea.com).

Previously, rumors had circulated on the internet that Battlefield 6 would be released on October 10, but the date was not yet set in stone and could still be postponed.

Here you can watch the reveal trailer of Battlefield 6 again:

Start video
Reveal-Trailer zu Battlefield 6

Sooner than expected – unless it gets postponed again.

What release date was previously anticipated? October 10 is indeed earlier than some Battlefield fans expected earlier this year, since the Battlefield Labs only started in February 2025. This is a testing environment where players had the opportunity to provide feedback on the game.

The first estimates from the community were pointing to a release in 2026 (via Reddit), especially since the release of GTA 6 was originally planned for Fall 2025, which every other game wants to avoid as much as possible.

After the release of GTA 6 was postponed in May 2025 and EA said a few days later in an investors’ conference (via ea.com) that Battlefield 6 would be released in fiscal year 2026, a Battlefield release by the end of 2025 was on the table. The fiscal year 2026 for EA runs until March 2026.

November of this year was particularly seen as likely, as both Battlefield V and Battlefield 2042 were released in November – although both games were originally supposed to appear in October and were postponed. This could still happen with Battlefield 6.

Battlefield 6 will definitely have to convince fans of the popular shooter series with the upcoming beta, as they remain skeptical after Battlefield 2042, even though they found the first trailer quite good: The first material for Battlefield 6 is well-received, but fans advise caution

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Source(s):
  1. Insider-Gaming

The most reliable car brand is no longer Toyota or Honda: Another manufacturer takes the top spot in the annual ranking

Toyota and Honda were considered the most reliable cars for years. Now, these two brands have been surpassed by another Japanese brand. Why Subaru is now in first place and why they have been rather conservative with technological innovations for many years.

Where do the data come from? Consumer Reports, a globally recognized authority on consumer protection, has published its annual ranking of the most reliable car brands in 2025.

Every year, Consumer Reports surveys its members about problems they have experienced with their vehicles in the past 12 months. This year, data from more than 300,000 vehicles were collected:

  • Consumer Reports assesses the severity of each problem to create a reliability rating from 1 to 100 for each vehicle.
  • These ratings contribute to the final reliability scores assigned to each common vehicle.
  • To calculate the overall rating of a vehicle, Consumer Reports combines the reliability score with data from their own test drives, as well as results from the owner satisfaction survey and safety data.

In recent years, car brands Toyota and Honda have consistently topped the rankings. But this time, the Japanese brand Subaru has made it to the top. Eight Asian brands are represented in the top 10, with Audi and BMW being the two German brands in 9th and 10th place.

Start video
Slate Auto presents new truck with electric motor

Subaru is the leader in reliability

Why is Subaru at the top? Subaru tends to be conservative when it comes to developing new vehicles: there are few innovations, and often old, familiar parts are used even in new vehicles. Subaru relies on proven, mature technology and avoids unnecessarily complex innovations when updating their models.

Steven Elek, who is responsible for analyzing vehicle data at Consumer Reports, explains:

Subaru vehicles have many reliable components. These commonalities mean that Subaru can make fewer incremental changes when redesigning a vehicle, as proven systems can be adopted. This reduces the risk of new problems arising.

Popular Subaru models like the Impreza, Crosstrek, and WRX share many components, which makes maintenance easier and reduces the likelihood of errors. Additionally, spare parts are readily available and cheaper than with other companies, as no special customizations are needed for repairs.

Higher reliability does not always mean perfect workmanship: some consumers report minor weaknesses, including in paint or plastic quality. However, the central technology remains unobtrusive and durable.

A car is an expensive investment, and one usually hopes to be able to use a new car for many years. However, a 24-year-old’s experience ended after just 2 days. And this despite having waited 3 years for the car and making a down payment of around $80,000: A 24-year-old had to wait 3 years for his car and paid 80,000 euros – 2 days after the first drive, the car is already dead

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Source(s):
  1. www.xataka.com

Pokémon GO: 4 tips and counters against Dynamax Latias and Latios

On Saturday, you can challenge Latias and Latios in their Dynamax forms for the first time in Pokémon GO. To succeed, we have put together tips and counters for you.

What kind of event is this? The Dyna Battle weekend takes place this weekend. It starts on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 6:00 AM and runs until Sunday, July 27, 2025, at 9:00 PM. During this time, you can challenge Latias and Latios in their Dynamax forms for the first time.

Additionally, there are the following bonuses for you during the event:

  • Collection limit for Dyna particles is increased to 1,600
  • Quartered walking distance to receive Dyna particles
  • Power sources regenerate more frequently
  • 8 times the amount of Dyna particles at power sources
  • Costs for unlocking and training Dyna attacks are reduced by 25% (already since Monday, July 21, 2025, at 6:00 AM)

To face the two legendary Pokémon as effectively as possible in battle, we have gathered some tips and counters for you.

Start video
So sah das Pokémon GO Fest 2025 in Paris aus

1. Use strong counters

To deal the most damage possible, you should rely on the strongest counters against Latias and Latios. Both monsters have the types Dragon and Psychic. Therefore, attacks of the types Bug, Dark, Dragon, Fairy, Ghost, and Ice are particularly effective.

Since the number of previous Dynamax and Gigantamax monsters is comparatively limited, you should ideally rely on these attackers:

  • Gigantamax Gengar
  • Zacian (Sword King)
  • Dynamax Gengar
  • Wulaosu (Focused Style)
  • Dynamax Silembrim

2. Use strong defenders

To fill your dynameter, you should also use strong defenders that can absorb the damage from the legendary Pokémon well. The following monsters are especially suitable for this:

  • Dynamax Heitera
  • Dynamax Chansey
  • Zacian (Sword King)
  • Zamazenta (Shield King)
  • Dynamax Metagross
  • Gigantamax Lapras

3. Fight strategically

You should use your defender or, if you take 2 into your team, your defenders until your dynameter is filled. Then switch to your attacker and perform powerful Dyna attacks.

Once these are exhausted, switch back to the defending Pokémon and fight with it until your dynameter is filled again. Repeat this process until Latias or Latios are defeated.

Discuss with your group whether trainers should also take on the role of a supporter and provide the group with healing or shields. If you are the supporter, then use these abilities instead of your attacks.

4. Coordinate with each other

Speaking of the group: to successfully defeat the two legendary Dyna monsters, you will need several trainers. To increase your chances of a successful battle outcome, you should coordinate and plan accordingly.

Assign roles before the battle and take the appropriate Pokémon with you. It should be clear who will deal damage and who will provide the group with shields and healing. This way you ensure a good starting position to defeat the two monsters.

Not only is the Dyna Battle weekend on in Pokémon GO. As usual, there are several events and content this month that you can participate in in the game. What they are and when they take place can be found in our overview with all events in July 2025 in Pokémon GO.

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

The fascination of MMORPGs: That is why fans spend several years of their lives in Azeroth, Eorzea or Tamriel 

There are hardly any genres as multifaceted, lasting, and immersive as MMORPGs – the Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games. Millions of players spend years, sometimes even decades, in them. But what exactly makes games like World of Warcraft and others so special?

What are MMORPGs about? Online role-playing games are endless, and there is always something to do: a level not yet reached, a boss not yet defeated, or a mount that one definitely wants.

In MMORPGs, it’s about progress, community, and individuality. Once you dive into such a world, you quickly understand that it’s not just about playing, but about a total experience. 

Your character is built and shaped over the years. You can make a name for yourself or express yourself in various ways. Whether you prove yourself in epic raids, collect rare gear, assemble stylish outfits, or simply hang out with the guild in chat: everything is part of it.

The best MMORPGs of all time, chosen by the MeinMMO community:

Start video
The best MMORPGs of all time for PC and console

What does RPG progression encompass in MMORPGs? The role-playing progression – that is, the continuous advancement for the virtual alter ego – is what motivates players to stick around. You want to see how your character grows and becomes stronger. 

Learning or unlocking new things is always fun and is especially intense in MMORPGs because it happens over weeks, months, or even years. There are many areas to focus on:

  • Level-ups: You collect XP and level up. This makes you stronger, gains more abilities, better stats, and so on.
  • Equipment & Loot: You find or loot better weapons, armor, and items, thereby improving your character further.
  • Story progression: The character experiences a story and becomes part of a larger world – often with choices that make a difference.
  • Cosmetic development: Looks, mounts, outfits, and so on can also be part of the progression. You show what you have achieved – but also what you like and how you want to present yourself in the world.

Guild Wars 2 focuses on horizontal progression, where gear has not improved for years, but the game world of Tyria offers another kind of progress, appealing to collectors, explorers, casual players, and achievement hunters. Here is the trailer for the latest expansion Janthir Wilds:

Start video
Guild Wars 2: Janthir Wilds – Announcement trailer introduces you to new expansion

In MMORPGs, you don’t have to be able to do everything

What is the role distribution like in MMORPGs? In MMORPGs, you are rarely alone, and that’s a good thing. A central element of many genre representatives is the clear role distribution within groups: tank, healer, damage dealer. Each role has its own responsibility and playstyle.

The exciting part is that you don’t have to be able to do everything. If you master your task well, you quickly become an important part of the team. Through specialization, you can further focus your character. Maybe you will become the best supporter in the group or someone who plays a very specific mechanic particularly well. 

Many MMORPGs thrive on teamwork, and it works very well because:

  • Every role is important – collaboration is essential
  • You don’t have to do everything – just master your task well
  • There is often room for niche roles (e.g. supporters, buffers, crowd control, etc.)
  • Sometimes you can take on pacifist tasks for a community and specialize in farming rare resources or crafting certain items.
The Grindfest from July 21 to 27
During this week, exciting articles on the topic of MMORPG are expected every day. Included: a journey through the history of online role-playing games, nostalgic throwbacks, streaming nights, interviews, columns, and analyses.

Here is the program for the big MMORPG theme week 2025 by MeinMMO

The nice thing is: In most MMORPGs, you don’t have to be part of a community to have fun. Often, you can also just go solo and focus on leveling, quests, and the story. The genre is so broad that it appeals to very different types of players.

The more challenges you master with a community, the more time you spend with them, and the more shared memories you create, the closer you feel to them (and thus to the game). This social bond can last for decades and create friendships and relationships for a lifetime.

Elder Scrolls Online is an MMORPG that can be played very well solo and especially for the stories – here is one of the cinematic trailers:

Start video
The Elder Scrolls Online – Gold Road in the announcement trailer

Some take it seriously, others prefer it relaxed

Why do people stick with MMORPGs for years? One of the biggest appeals of MMORPGs is that they don’t rush you. There is no fixed goal and no timer telling you when you are done. You set the pace according to your mood and life situation.

Some take it seriously, wanting to improve, see progress, and measure themselves against others. For them, the game is like a sports competition. Others just want to have fun and be relaxed. Maybe stroll through the capital, listen to music, and just chat.

Often, you stay because you meet people, build social bonds, or because your character develops into part of your online identity over the years. The good thing is that you don’t have to choose. There’s no “right” way to play MMORPGs – and that’s what makes these games so enduring.

MMORPGs offer countless possibilities, yet some say the truly magical times are far behind us. But what made the “golden era” of online role-playing games special when titles like Guild Wars and Lord of the Rings Online were at their peak? Here’s how the genre has changed since then: Truly sad: Those who are trying an MMORPG for the first time will never feel the fascination of the veterans

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

I played almost 25 hours of Soulframe and can tell you: This is not an MMO

Soulframe is the new game by Digital Extremes, the studio behind Warframe. MeinMMO editor Karsten has extensively played the online RPG with a fantasy setting. While he didn’t find an MMO, he did experience something special.

You have certainly heard that the developers of Digital Extremes (Warframe) recently enabled all interested parties to access the current test version of Soulframe – although only for a short time.

Well, my access has been sitting here for quite some time. However, my first visit to the fantasy island of Midrath was a disappointing experience. There was hardly any player guidance, the character window was not intuitively designed, and the labels were at times vague, confusing, or hidden behind cryptic symbols. I haven’t struggled this much to get into a new fantasy RPG in a long time.

Since then, there have been further updates, and thanks to my vacation, I finally had more time to really devote to Soulframe. And it was worth it! After about 25 hours, I’m so fascinated by the world that I’d like to play in every free minute. But don’t expect a true MMO! More on that later. First, I want to celebrate Soulframe’s greatest strength.

One of the trailers for Soulframe:

Start video
Soulframe: Prelude trailer for the new fantasy MMO by the creators of Warframe

Nature is the star

The first surprising moment is delivered by Soulframe right upon logging in. On the start screen, I see my hero, sitting by a tree, surrounded by animals.

As soon as I type in my login details, the immersion-breaking text field disappears immediately. The camera zooms in. My character gets up. Fawns and rabbits tumble off my lap. I’m immediately in the action right after entering the password. Fantastic!

What about character creation? Soulframe begins with your birth, where you can determine many details such as skin and hair color, hairstyle, gender, and more. You also get to choose between 3 packs, which determine your starting attributes, skills, and weapon – bow, staff, or sword, what will it be?

The fact that the animals of the world feel so comfortable around me is no coincidence. On the island of Midrath, there is an evil force that corrupts nature, locks up harmless animals, and turns the spirits of nature into dangerous monsters. As a messenger, I fight the local troops that wage war against nature, freeing every living being and cleansing the corruption.

So I rescue raccoons, squirrels, and rabbits from cages. I pull corrupted spears from majestic world trees and gradually uncover more parts of the world map. At another place, I manage to save a large white wolf from certain death. This was not a pre-assumed quest or anything like that; I stumbled into this adventure quite by chance.

Afterward, I also rescue the wolf mother’s pups, where the four-legged warrior assists me in battle from time to time – and with an action I don’t want to spoil, I was treated to one of the funniest boss moments of all time.

Now one of her adorable fur balls is waiting for me at my base (more on that shortly), where he regularly comes for cuddles. If he grows as big as his mom, he would make a great mount or at least a wonderful companion… will that actually happen?

A highlight so far have also been the fights against the corrupted nature spirits. The production, musical background, and atmosphere presented must not hide behind any boss encounter from From Software (Dark Souls and so on). It’s already pretty great cinema.

If you want to be slightly spoiled, check out this 31-minute gameplay from the developers where a singing bear plays an important role – goosebumps!

Recommended editorial content

At this point you will find external content from YouTube that complements the article.

I consent to external content being displayed to me. Personal data can be transmitted to third party platforms. Read more about our privacy policy.
Link to the YouTube content

Lastly, nature is the star for me in Soulframe also because the world is simply wonderfully immersive.

Thanks to the understated user interface (apart from the current version of the chat) and atmospheric sounds, you can wonderfully dive into this special adventure while exploring. And you don’t always run into other players named Shàdówróuge1995 bouncing through the screen.

What does Soulframe have to do with Warframe?
The developers themselves refer to their new game as a sister project of Warframe because both games have similarities that the “Frame” in the title is supposed to indicate. However, these parallels refer to the gameplay experience and not to the worlds, which are completely different and unrelated.

In Warframe, the titular Warframes refer to the exo-armor, which have various pros and cons, and you complete them with a melee weapon, a secondary weapon, and a primary weapon. You can also switch between such a “Frame” or equip build in Soulframe.

However, the term “Frame” first appears in Soulframe when choosing your gender during character creation.

The developers are not entirely happy with their choice of name: The new MMO by the creators of Warframe struggles with the name “Soulframe” because it sounds like “Dark Souls”

Homeopathic doses of multiplayer

Indeed, I haven’t encountered a single other player in my first 20 hours. Even the recently mentioned chat was long deserted. At least the latter changed when the developers recently invited significantly more players to the current test version. Since then, one question follows the next; others clearly also have difficulties getting into this Soulframe.

That I still roam the world alone is due to the fundamental structure of Soulframe. Outside of certain social hubs where you may encounter other players, interaction only occurs when you form a group and explore the world as a team. Soulframe is thus more of an (optional co-op) online RPG, and not an MMO.

Soulframe: Wolf pups
You frequently rescue trapped animals from cages.

The core of Soulframe

In Soulframe, I stomp through this mystical world in a close third-person perspective, consistently following a bird that leads me to important locations at the push of a button, and fight opponents in an action-packed combat system. In battles, I chain light attacks to heavy ones, block, dodge, or use one of the 3 skills activated via my selected pact.

While exploring, I stumbled upon the enclave of the so-called Kith of Kings, where I managed to defeat a knight and unlock a faction. Since then, small, rather generic tasks appear everywhere in the game world for the king loyalists, which allow me to increase my reputation.

Unfortunately, it takes forever to gain reputation this way – and to clear the same camps, intercept messengers, defeat corrupted creatures, or explore underground vaults.

The dungeon-like areas at least bring some variety in the form of smaller puzzles. Sometimes I have to drain water from a flooded room somehow to progress to the ground floor. Other times I must extinguish the deadly flames blocking my path. The ability to throw and recall my weapon also helps in these moments.

Combat gameplay as a mage in Soulframe:

Start video
New trailer for the fantasy MMO Soulframe shows action-packed combat as a mage

Through won battles, rescuing animals, completing tasks, and more, I gain experience points. Level-ups, through which I can increase the values of courage, grace, and virtue, are rare. Levels for the weapons used and the bond with the aforementioned pact increase much faster – allowing me to unlock improvements in the respective skill trees.

All these level-ups take place, by the way, in the so-called Nightfold, your own base which you can access from anywhere by pressing the Tab key. There, alongside the wolf pup, unusual NPCs you meet throughout your adventure gradually come together – including a blacksmith.

Soulframe: Blacksmith
Here I have just unlocked the blacksmith in my base. Unfortunately, there are no materials yet, so she can’t craft anything for me.

With her, I can have new weapons and armor pieces crafted as soon as I have the necessary reputation and provide the materials.

My tip: Start destroying every barrel and chest in the world as soon as possible. Otherwise, it takes forever to get your first equipment upgrade – especially since crafting usually takes several real-time hours (unless you want to whip out units of one of the in-game currencies for faster crafting).

Speaking of in-game currency: I can’t say much about the monetization of Soulframe yet. The game is supposed to follow a free-to-play model, like Warframe. However, there isn’t a shop in the current version of the game yet.

Why do I do what where and how?

All this feels significantly slower and more tedious than in many other action-RPGs. Partly, that is certainly intentional from the developers and refreshingly decelerated. Partly, it also has to do with the fact that Soulframe doesn’t explain many things well in several places (yet?) – and as a player, you often walk through the world with question marks overhead.

Here are just a few of the questions I’ve yet to find answers to within the game:

  • How do I unlock additional packs? So far, only 1 of 7 is showing up, even though I’ve been playing for a while.
  • What is the relationship between my character level, the power level from equipment, and the level displayed for opponents?
  • Weapons and packs can be upgraded through so-called Motes. Where do you get them from? What do they bring in detail?
  • At a weapon rack, I increased the capacities of packs and weapons by paying in-game currency. I haven’t noticed any effects from that so far (except that the money is gone).
  • When I found the enclave of the Silent Rose (this is one of the social hubs but also the base of a faction), I encountered an already known NPC there. However, nobody wants to interact with me in the enclave – it’s currently a dead end.
  • Where can I finally get bombs or grenades or something similar to destroy the annoying turrets of the enemies?
Soulframe: Character window
The character window is rather unusually structured.

Since the game leaves much unclear, and I’m currently playing an unfinished version of the game, I constantly wonder: Is this a bug or a feature? The constant questions in the chat show me that many other testers are dealing with the same.

This is something the developers should definitely address before launch. Otherwise, they will lose many interested players in the first hours, who don’t want to painstakingly figure out all these details.

That would be a shame because Soulframe already offers a fascinating, immersive gaming experience that significantly stands out from typical mainstream RPGs.

For my part, I hope that the developers use the remaining time until the free-to-play release on PC to address the existing issues. However, there is still no specific launch date. By the way, the YouTuber TheLazyPeon is also excited about the game: Popular MMORPG YouTuber plays Soulframe for the first time: “The game is so damn cool”

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

Twitch streamer has streamed for 31 days in a row, set a new record – still switched to YouTube

Through a Subathon on Twitch, the American streamer Ludwig Ahgren was able to catapult himself to the top of Twitch for a month, but he fell just as quickly back down. MeinMMO tells you the story of the streamer.

Who is it about? The American streamer Ludwig Ahgren is one of the biggest in the industry. He is often referred to as Twitch’s “Golden Boy” because he has never been involved in a major scandal.

In 2021, Ludwig held a Subathon that was supposed to make Twitch history for him, but the success of this event did not bring him what the streamer ultimately hoped for.

Ludwig is considered one of the biggest streamers internationally. In our video, we introduce you to the biggest Twitch streamers in Germany:

Start video
These are the 5 most relevant German streamers on Twitch in 2024, according to Google

A Subathon Like Never Before

Ludwig streams for 31 days straight: In December 2020, Ludwig reached 1 million followers on Twitch, but for health reasons, he had to take a short break in March 2021.

When he returned, Ludwig had something new in mind: a Subathon.

What is a Subathon? The word “Subathon” consists of the words “sub” (“subscription”) and “marathon.” A Subathon on Twitch thus refers to a kind of marathon with the completed subscriptions with the respective streamer.

The Twitch stream is extended by a certain period of time for each subscription that is completed in the stream. The time can be determined by the streamers, but usually ranges in seconds or minutes.

The time the stream runs is thus tied to the number of subs, and viewers are encouraged to spend more money to keep the stream running as long as possible. Most streamers set a time limit for their stream, such as 24 hours. For streamers, a Subathon is especially worthwhile financially.

The special thing about Ludwig’s Subathon: He set no time limit for his stream. As many subscriptions that would be completed, the stream would last. For each new subscription completed, 20 seconds were credited to the Twitch stream.

In the following days, Ludwig took his Twitch stream into his daily life: He showed himself while training, gaming, sleeping, and repeatedly did special things with his friends and colleagues.

At peak times, the timer for the Subathon stood at 72 hours. Eventually, Ludwig decided to lower the time per sub to 10 seconds. Nevertheless, the timer did not really want to decrease, even when Ludwig banned viewers who, in his opinion, spent too much money.

Partially, Ludwig’s stream colleague Slime took over Ludwig’s stream and entertained the viewers with gameplay. Ultimately, Ludwig and his team set a limit: After 31 days, the stream should finally come to an end.

At that time, Ludwig broke the record for the most subscribed Twitch streamer in a month with over 280,000 subs. Previously, Ninja held the record when he was able to account for over 269,000 subs in a month in 2018.

The revenue from Ludwig’s Subathon was 1.4 million USD. Of this, Ludwig kept over 202,000 USD. The rest of the money he shared among his moderators and viewers, donated to charities, and Twitch naturally kept a portion.

“I had the biggest fall that anyone has ever had on Twitch”

Why did Ludwig switch to YouTube? Ludwig thought that after this Subathon, after this huge success and a piece of Twitch history, he had made it. He thought he would now remain the biggest streamer on the platform, but that was not the case.

In April 2021, Ludwig had an average viewership of over 44,668; in May 2021, this figure dropped to around 19,644; in June it was “only” 16,618. These were fewer average viewers than he had before the Subathon since in January 2021 he still had 25,942 and in February 20,908 (Source: SullyGnome).

Ludwig himself once said in a podcast: “I had the biggest fall that anyone has ever had on Twitch” (Source: YouTube).

At the same time, his contract with Twitch ended. In the negotiations, it seemed to Ludwig that the platform did not want the streamer as much as he had hoped. So Ludwig Ahgren switched exclusively to YouTube Streaming in November 2021, likely mainly for the money.

Ironically, Ludwig was banned from streaming on YouTube after 3 days for a few days, but overall he did well on YouTube. He was able to maintain his success and made YouTube Streaming better known among his audience.

The exclusive contract with YouTube lasted a total of three years, but nowadays such contracts no longer exist, so Ludwig did not extend his contract. After 3 years, Ludwig returned to Twitch in 2025 and is now streaming simultaneously on YouTube and Twitch.

Despite everything, he has established himself in the streaming landscape and is still one of the biggest streamers in the international bubble despite his “fall.”

Streamer Ludwig Ahgren is considered by his community to be someone who is easy to fool. When he falls for a fake account pretending to be one of his colleagues, it is once again confirmed: Twitch streamer Ludwig fell for an imitation of his friend, even inviting him to game

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

Detective Conan receives 50 new episodes in German, even with the voices from your childhood – only 2 are missing

Detective Conan is getting new episodes of the anime in German. Some of them can be watched starting now. Almost all voices from the RTL2 era are back.

What episodes are these? Crunchyroll has announced that episodes 484 to 533 will be available with German dubbing. Among them are many love stories, appearances of the Detective Boys, as well as Kaito Kid. Even the men in black are an important part of some episodes.

In Japan, these episodes were aired 18 to 19 years ago. Now, viewers from Germany can also watch the episodes in German audio. Almost all the voices you remember from the RTL2 anime era are included. At least the majority.

Who is missing? Last year, Jörg Hengstler passed away, the German voice actor for Kogoro Mori. Since then, he has been replaced by Dirk Bublies. Viewers could already admire his talent in the film Detective Conan: The 1 Million Dollar Pentagram. 

Sadly, shortly after Hengstler, the German voice of Professor Agasa also passed away. The helpful professor was voiced by Frank Ciazynski. Now, Peter Reinhardt takes his place, who was also heard for the first time in the movie.

Start video
The Super Trio: The RTL2 Anime Gets a Remake

Detective Conan with new episodes in German

When can I watch them? The first 12 episodes are available now. So you can already watch more episodes of the young detective. Further episodes will only be available in a month. All subsequent episodes will then be released on a monthly basis.

Where can I watch them? The new episodes in German are available on Crunchyroll. Unfortunately, you need a paid premium subscription to watch the anime. Here, costs of around €7 to €10 per month may apply.

How many episodes are still missing? In fact, the Detective Conan anime continues to air regularly on Japanese television. You can imagine that the German dubbing is not even close to catching up with the Japanese version, given that episodes that are 19 years old are being dubbed now.

Crunchyroll will dub all episodes up to 533. In Japan, episode 1169 is currently airing. The voice acting team would therefore have a lot of work ahead of them if they are to catch up with all episodes.

You can probably imagine that throughout the episodes, there have been some exciting cases of the little detective. MeinMMO has listed the 5 most exciting cases in the anime in a ranking: The 5 most exciting cases of Detective Conan with thrilling twists

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

Player is a big Destiny fan, spends thousands of dollars on a suitable room, says goodbye to the community after 10 years

The end of the Light and Darkness saga marked the end of many fans’ careers as Guardians in Destiny 2. A player on Reddit is one of them, but he doesn’t want to leave quietly and showed the community his love for the franchise in the form of his fan room.

Which player is being referred to? This is about the player EYEONME2534. The user doesn’t post much, but when he does, it’s pictures of his gaming room. A glance is enough to know that this Guardian has a passion for Destiny and the franchise. His room is filled with figures from Destiny 1 & 2, replicas of various Exos and weapons, posters, and pins.

He often let the community on Reddit participate in the growth of his memorabilia and showed what he has accumulated over the years. But now it’s also time for him to say goodbye to the loot shooter.

With a long post, EYEONME2534 said goodbye to the community and explained that for him, the journey is over after the conclusion of the Light and Darkness saga. Fans celebrate him but wonder what will happen to his collection now.

Start video
The launch trailer of “The Edge of Fate” showcases the new expansion of Destiny 2

Collection worth several thousand dollars

What does the fan room look like? EYEONME2534 has 4 display cases stuffed with figures and replicas from Destiny 1 & 2. Additionally, there is a cabinet with more figures and picture frames of all the seals he has collected over the years.

Here’s a brief glimpse of what the Guardian has been able to accumulate:

Recommended editorial content

At this point you will find external content from Reddit that complements the article.

I consent to external content being displayed to me. Personal data can be transmitted to third party platforms. Read more about our privacy policy.
Link to the Reddit content

Furthermore, his walls are adorned with posters, a television, more replicas, and a small nook full of “Funko POP” figures from Destiny and even a “World First” belt for the raid “The Crown of Sorrow”.

The post garnered over 3,500 upvotes and 283 comments on Reddit (as of July 24, 11:57 AM) and many resonate with the Guardian regarding his retirement. Still, many are excited about the sheer amount of fan items.

And although EYEONME2534 doesn’t want to think about how much his collection has cost, one can tell just by the Collector’s Editions that he must have spent over a thousand dollars. One of them is the Destiny 2 Vanilla Collector’s Edition, which sold back then for $249.99, but there are also ones for The Witch Queen, Lightfall, and even Beyond Light – all in about the same price range.

What do fans say about the collection? They are thrilled and recognize immediately that this is a passionate Guardian. However, they want to know what will happen to all the items the Guardian has accumulated over the years.

According to EYEONME2534, the collection is to go to his son. The user Suavecore_ then asked whether his son would be playing Destiny or would rather deal with eBay. The collector jokingly replied that it would likely be eBay (to possibly sell his collection).

Do you also have a small collection of fan items related to Destiny 1 & 2, or did your in-game items suffice? At the Edge of Destiny has now launched everywhere, and if you want to use the best weapon meta, feel free to use our list: The 51 best PvE weapons with God Rolls in Destiny 2 – Sorted by type 2025

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.