Following this move, players who already own Black Ops 6 will need to redownload the game as its own standalone application, while the leftover legacy files tied to the game’s modes inside the main Call of Duty install will be automatically wiped to free up storage space.
This isn’t the first time Activision has trimmed down its all-in-one launcher. Call of Duty HQ launched back in November 2023 as a unified hub bringing together the franchise’s recent releases and Warzone, and while it promised easier switching between titles, the extra install steps and oversized downloads drew a plethora of complaints from the community.
Eventually, Activision pulled Modern Warfare 2 and 3 from the shared hub in 2025, turning them into standalone apps.
This move is likely an effort to shrink download sizes and let players install the game they want without the added steps. Some fans also speculate that the shift could be clearing space in the launcher ahead of future Call of Duty releases.
Over the past few months, reports of players encountering cheaters in their Valorant ranked games have become increasingly common.
Valorant players, especially those in the higher ranks, have repeatedly resorted to social media platforms like X to share clips and highlight their encounters with suspected hackers.
While Riot Games has made several attempts to crack down on cheating in Valorant through its controversial anti-cheat system, Vanguard, cheat devs continue to find new ways to circumvent the company’s efforts.
Vanguard Dev Responds to Cheating Concerns
In a recent X post, professional Valorant player and streamer Yassine “Subroza” Taoufik claimed that the shooter’s anti-cheat system is the “worst of all popular games at [a] high level.”
Valorant anti-cheat is the worst of all popular game at high level. Their updates last 2 days of new act and then theres 20000 cheaters per game
When replying to a different X user, Koskinas admitted that the cheating problem in Valorant has become worse over the years.
“Definitely more common now, about 2x more bans per day in most ranks,” he said in his response. “However, some of this is because cheaters don’t really try to cheat quietly anymore, they just get back in and start blasting.”
definitely more common now, about 2x more bans per day in most ranks. however, some of this is because cheaters don't really try to cheat quietly anymore, they just get back in and start blasting.
also the number of claude triggerbots that I have to ban upsets me.
Ultimately, it’s a frustrating reminder that the fight against cheating in Valorant is far from over.
As cheat developers continue to adapt and evolve, players will be hoping Riot Games can step up its efforts to preserve the competitive integrity of the game.
The first week of July 2026 has already delivered plenty of memorable moments for esports fans. From standout performances in League of Legends to roster developments in Counter-Strike 2, the opening days of the month have set the stage for an exciting summer. Here is a quick look at the biggest winners, the teams facing early setbacks, and the surprises that caught the community’s attention.
Biggest Winners
League of Legends remains in the spotlight as the MSI 2026 Playoffs continue to produce high-quality matches. Several top contenders have shown why they entered the tournament as favorites, with disciplined team play and strong individual performances keeping fans engaged.
Counter-Strike 2 has also enjoyed a busy start to July. While major tournaments are still building momentum, several organizations have generated headlines through roster activity and preparation for the next phase of the competitive season.
Biggest Losers
Not every team has started July on a positive note. A few squads have struggled to meet expectations, whether through disappointing results or inconsistent performances. Early exits and missed opportunities have already raised questions about whether roster adjustments or strategic changes may be needed before the next major events.
For organizations with championship ambitions, a slow start to July could make the coming weeks even more important.
Biggest Surprises
The opening week has also delivered several unexpected storylines. Underdog teams have challenged established favorites, while emerging players have taken advantage of the spotlight to showcase their talent on the international stage.
Outside of tournament results, fans have also seen increased transfer speculation across multiple esports titles. Although many rumors remain unconfirmed, the community continues to watch closely as organizations prepare for the second half of the competitive calendar.
Looking Ahead
The first week of July has shown that 2026 could become one of the most competitive years in esports. With MSI still underway and more international tournaments approaching, teams have little time to celebrate victories or recover from setbacks.
As the month continues, fans can expect more roster news, high-stakes matches, and breakout performances across the world’s biggest esports titles.
Free Fire best guns can make a huge difference in close fights, mid-range sprays, and long-range duels. With several SMGs, shotguns, assault rifles, marksman rifles, and snipers available, choosing the right weapon depends on your playstyle and the distance of the fight. In this guide, we rank the best Free Fire weapons for different combat ranges based on damage, accuracy, fire rate, range, and overall usefulness. From the MP40 and M590 for close combat to the XM8 and AC80 for longer fights, here are the guns worth picking up in 2026.
Free Fire Best Guns Ranked
There is no single weapon that dominates every situation in Free Fire. Garena designs different weapon classes around specific ranges, with shotguns specializing in very close fights, SMGs performing well in medium-close combat, rifles covering medium distances, and marksman rifles and snipers excelling at long range.
The current weapon pool also includes upgraded and special versions of several guns. Recent updates have changed the balance of weapons such as the AC80, M590, UMP, M24, and sniper rifles, so older tier lists may not accurately represent the current meta.
Here are our picks for the Free Fire best guns based on their role and consistency in matches.
1. M590 – Best Close-Range Gun
The M590 is one of the strongest choices for players who like aggressive close-range fights. Its shotgun damage makes it especially dangerous inside buildings, around corners, and during Gloo Wall battles.
Garena describes the M590 as a mid-to-close-range powerhouse, and the weapon received additional adjustments that improved its damage while reducing its range.
The main drawback is its limited effective range. You need to get close to the opponent and land accurate shots to get the most from it.
Best for: Close-range fights and aggressive pushes.
2. MP40 – Best Close-Range SMG
The MP40 remains one of the most recognizable close-range weapons in Free Fire. Its high fire rate makes it deadly when you can stay on target and continuously hit an enemy.
The MP40 is particularly useful for players who prefer fast movement and aggressive pushes. Garena has also made several balance changes to SMGs over the years to give them a clearer advantage in medium-close combat.
It is less effective when fighting enemies at longer distances, but that is not where the MP40 is designed to shine.
Best for: Fast close-range sprays and rush gameplay.
3. UMP – Best Easy-to-Use SMG
The UMP is a strong option for players who want a more forgiving SMG. It combines good stability with useful close-range performance, making it easier to control than some of the faster weapons.
Garena has previously increased the UMP’s armor penetration, minimum damage, recoil control, and movement speed to improve its effectiveness against armored enemies.
The UMP works particularly well for players who are still improving their aim and recoil control.
Best for: Beginners, close-range fights, and reliable SMG sprays.
4. XM8 – Best Assault Rifle for Mid Range
The XM8 is one of the most reliable assault rifles for mid-range combat. Its combination of accuracy, range, and controllable firing makes it useful for players who prefer a balanced approach.
Garena has previously improved the XM8’s accuracy and effective range, reinforcing its role as a versatile rifle for medium-distance fights.
The XM8 is a good choice when you want one weapon that can handle more than just close-range combat.
Best for: Mid-range sprays and balanced gameplay.
5. Groza – Best Powerful Assault Rifle
The Groza is another excellent assault rifle, particularly for players who want high damage and strong performance at medium distances.
Recent balance changes increased the Groza’s damage, armor penetration, and range, making it an even stronger option when available.
The weapon is especially valuable when you find its stronger versions through special loot sources. Its performance makes it a great choice for players who like taking fights before enemies can get into shotgun range.
Best for: Mid-range fights and high-damage AR gameplay.
6. Woodpecker – Best for Accurate Mid-to-Long Range Shots
The Woodpecker is a marksman rifle built around precision. It uses AR ammunition and has high armor penetration, allowing skilled players to punish enemies from a distance.
Unlike an SMG, the Woodpecker rewards accurate shots rather than simply holding the fire button. It is a strong option for players who are comfortable tapping enemies and aiming for the upper body or head.
Best for: Mid-to-long-range precision fights.
7. AC80 – Best Mid-to-Long Range Weapon
The AC80 is one of the best choices for players who like fighting from a distance. Its unique mechanic rewards consecutive hits, making accurate follow-up shots extremely important.
Garena describes the AC80 as a weapon designed for mid-to-long-range combat. The weapon has also received multiple balance changes, including improvements to its rate of fire and damage before later adjustments reduced some of its power.
It is particularly effective when you can maintain a clear line of sight and consistently hit the target.
Best for: Mid-range and long-range precision.
8. SVD – Best Automatic Long-Range Weapon
The SVD is a powerful automatic sniper rifle designed for long-range engagements. Unlike traditional bolt-action snipers, it allows players to fire follow-up shots quickly.
Garena describes the SVD as an accurate and powerful automatic sniper rifle that is available through resupply points and airdrops.
This makes it useful for players who want the power of a sniper while still having the ability to pressure an enemy with multiple shots.
Best for: Long-range pressure and repeated sniper shots.
9. M24 – Best Upgradeable Sniper
The M24 became a much more interesting option after receiving a major rework. Garena increased its damage significantly and made it upgradeable, allowing it to remain useful from the early game through the late game.
Its lower magazine capacity and slower movement can make it less forgiving than an assault rifle or SMG. However, players who are confident with sniper shots can use the M24 to deal heavy damage from a safe distance.
Best for: Long-range sniping and high-damage single shots.
10. AWM – Best Traditional Sniper
The AWM is one of the classic long-range choices in Free Fire. It is built for players who prefer holding angles, scouting enemies, and landing powerful sniper shots rather than taking extended spray fights.
Recent balance changes improved the AWM’s armor penetration and limb damage, helping it remain competitive among sniper rifles.
The AWM is not the best choice for rushing enemies, but in the hands of an accurate player, it can be extremely effective at long distances.
Best for: Long-range headshots and sniper gameplay.
Best Free Fire Guns for Each Range
Choosing your weapon based on the distance of the fight can make your loadout much more effective.
Range
Best Guns
Close Range
M590, MP40, UMP
Mid Range
XM8, Groza
Mid-to-Long Range
Woodpecker, AC80
Long Range
SVD, M24, AWM
For close-range fights, the M590 is the best choice if you can consistently land shotgun shots. The MP40 and UMP are better alternatives if you prefer SMGs and continuous fire.
For mid-range combat, the XM8 provides a balanced option, while the Groza is better suited to players who want higher damage and stronger offensive pressure.
For long-range fights, the AC80 and Woodpecker are excellent choices for accurate players. The SVD, M24, and AWM are better options if you prefer dedicated sniper gameplay.
How to Choose the Best Gun in Free Fire
Your weapon should match your playstyle rather than simply following a tier list.
If you like rushing enemies, use an M590, MP40, or UMP. These weapons are designed to perform well when the fight happens at close or medium-close range.
If you prefer balanced gameplay, an XM8 or Groza can give you more flexibility. You can use these weapons to fight at medium distances while still having enough damage for closer encounters.
For passive or long-range gameplay, marksman rifles and snipers are the better choice. The Woodpecker and AC80 reward accurate shots, while the SVD, M24, and AWM provide dedicated long-range firepower.
Best Gun Combinations in Free Fire
Using 2 weapons that cover different ranges is usually more effective than carrying 2 guns with the same purpose.
Some strong combinations include:
M590 + XM8: Close-range power with reliable mid-range coverage.
MP40 + AC80: Fast close-range fights with strong long-range pressure.
UMP + Woodpecker: Easy-to-control close-range weapon paired with a precision rifle.
The best combination ultimately depends on your aim, movement, and preferred combat style.
The Free Fire best guns depend heavily on the range and situation of the fight. The M590 and MP40 are excellent for aggressive close-range combat, while the UMP offers a more stable SMG option. For mid-range fights, the XM8 and Groza are reliable choices. Players who prefer distance should consider the Woodpecker, AC80, SVD, M24, or AWM.
Weapon balance can change with future patches, so players should always check the latest official updates before relying on an older tier list. Garena continues to adjust weapons to maintain different strengths across combat ranges.
In the aftermath of Brazil’s shocking loss at the hands of Erling Haaland’s Norway in the FIFA World Cup 2026, Neymar’s Steam profile has been subjected to a wave of abuse targeting his lack of impact in the tournament.
Neymar is arguably one of the biggest icons football has ever produced, who also happens to carry a footprint in Counter Strike. Unlike casual gamers, Neymar is heavily invested in Counter Strike and is often found playing with top CS2 esports athletes like ZyWoo and KSCERATO. What once formed a beautiful blend of fan bases has turned into a disaster in light of the massive sporting disappointment we saw when Erling Haaland’s band of Vikings knocked out a footballing giant like Brazil.
The attack on Neymar’s Steam profile gained attention from both Counter Strike and Footballing communities as angry fans flooded his comment section with abuse and insults. Ranging from a stream of Norwegian flags to comments like ” -rep for trolling at the World Cup “, fans have not left anything to criticize about his WC Campaign. In what shall be his last appearance, this toxic farewell will add to the Brazilians’ frustrations.
Not only does this incident speak to the treatment of these larger-than-life individuals online but also sheds light on how toxicity has spread across the gaming community, too, for matters totally unrelated to gaming. Demonstrating how difficult life can be for them, Neymar’s hurtful exit was supposed to be greeted with sympathy, and instead he faces a garden of thorns.
The popularity of video games is rising day by day, and it is not uncommon for major personalities to face abuse on gaming socials following major events, and Neymar is no exception despite the CS community’s love for him. Despite community members defending him, episodes like this remind us why online toxicity should be kept in check before it spirals out of hand.
Meccha Chameleon has crossed 15 million copies sold on Steam. The milestone came less than a month after launch, making it one of 2026’s fastest-selling PC games.
The developer shared the news in a Steam community post on July 5. The message read: “We hit 15 million in sales! Thanks a million!” The post also teased a new collaboration with a “famous Japanese star” set to arrive the following week. No further details were shared about the identity of the star or the content of the crossover.
A Rapid Sales Climb
Meccha Chameleon launched on Steam on June 9, 2026. Its sales growth since then has been steady and fast.
The game reached one million copies sold in four days. It passed three million within a week. Seven million copies sold followed within two weeks of launch. By June 26, the total had reached 10 million. Less than two weeks after that, the game crossed 15 million copies, arriving at the milestone in about 25 days total.
This pace has made Meccha Chameleon one of the standout commercial stories of the year in gaming.
What Is Meccha Chameleon?
Meccha Chameleon is a multiplayer hide-and-seek game. Players are split into two teams: Hiders and Seekers.
Hiders paint their all-white character bodies to blend into the environment, much like a real chameleon. They choose colors, poses, and hiding spots to avoid detection. Seekers then move around the map trying to spot and eliminate any Hider before time runs out.
The game is priced at $6 on Steam, which has helped its rapid, high-volume sales.
For now, players are left waiting to find out who the mystery Japanese star collaborating with Meccha Chameleon might be. The developer has confirmed the crossover is coming, but has not shared a name, a release date beyond “next week,” or details on what the collaboration will include.
Given the game’s momentum, the announcement is likely to draw even more attention to the indie hit when it lands.
KRAFTON India has officially confirmed that Ferrari is coming to BATTLEGROUNDS MOBILE INDIA (BGMI), with the Italian automaker set to make its debut in the game’s upcoming 4.5 update, rolling out July 16, 2026.
The collaboration stems from a global partnership between KRAFTON Inc. and Scuderia Ferrari HP, and brings the Prancing Horse’s design language and racing heritage to BGMI‘s massive player base, which the company says has crossed 260 million downloads in India.
Four Cars, One Battleground
Players will be able to collect four Ferrari models through in-app purchases, each offered in multiple colour variants:
Ferrari Roma — the brand’s grand tourer
Ferrari Purosangue — Ferrari’s first SUV
Ferrari LaFerrari — the marque’s flagship hypercar
Ferrari SF90 XX Spider — an open-top, plug-in hybrid supercar
The lineup spans everything from Ferrari’s more understated grand tourer to its most extreme track-oriented machine, giving players a range of ways to bring the brand into their matches.
More Than Skins: A Themed Photo Zone
Beyond the vehicles themselves, the update introduces a dedicated Ferrari-themed photo zone on the map, where players can interact with the cars and branded installations. KRAFTON is also adding exclusive animations that squads can use together, aimed at giving players social and content-creation moments rather than just a cosmetic upgrade.
Timeline and Background
The Ferrari content will run in BGMI from July 16 through September 7, 2026. Further details, trailers, and event dates are expected to be shared on BGMI’s YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook channels as the update approaches.
The tie-up traces back to a global partnership between KRAFTON and Scuderia Ferrari HP, Ferrari’s Formula 1 team, announced at a championship opening ceremony in Bangkok in December 2025, the first signal of Ferrari’s eventual arrival in the BGMI universe.
BGMI Control Layout can make a major difference in how quickly you move, aim, shoot and react during fights. While 2-finger controls are simple and comfortable for beginners, 3-finger, 4-finger and 5-finger claw setups give players more freedom to perform multiple actions at once. The best HUD depends on your device, hand size and playstyle. In this guide, we explain the best BGMI control layout for each finger setup, where to place important buttons, and how to transition to a more advanced claw setup without hurting your gameplay.
BGMI Control Layout: Which Finger Setup Is Best?
There is no single BGMI control layout that works for every player. Your ideal setup should let you move, aim, fire, scope and use movement buttons without forcing your fingers away from their primary positions.
Setup
Fingers Used
Best For
Difficulty
2-Finger
Both thumbs
Beginners and casual players
Easy
3-Finger
2 thumbs + 1 index
Players moving into claw
Medium
4-Finger
2 thumbs + 2 index fingers
Competitive and aggressive players
Hard
5-Finger
2 thumbs + 2 index + 1 extra finger
Advanced players
Very Hard
A 2-finger HUD is the easiest starting point because both thumbs handle almost everything. A 3-finger setup adds an index finger for shooting, while 4-finger claw separates shooting and scoping from movement and camera control. The 5-finger setup goes one step further by assigning another important action to an additional finger.
The key is not to copy a professional player’s layout exactly. Screen size, hand position and personal comfort can change how effective a HUD feels. Even community discussions around 4-finger and 5-finger layouts show that players often make small changes based on their device and grip.
Best 2-Finger BGMI Control Layout
The 2-finger setup uses the left thumb for movement and the right thumb for aiming and most other actions. It is the most comfortable BGMI control layout for new players because it does not require learning a claw grip.
Recommended 2-Finger HUD
Left thumb: Movement joystick
Right thumb: Camera and aiming
Right-side fire button: Near the right thumb
Scope: Above or near the right thumb
Crouch: Right side, below the scope
Jump: Above crouch
Prone: Close to crouch
Peek: Around the upper-right area
Keep the most frequently used buttons close to the right thumb. Avoid placing too many buttons around the joystick because accidental taps can interfere with movement.
The main disadvantage is that one thumb often has to perform several jobs. Shooting, aiming, jumping and crouching at the same time can become difficult. However, for casual matches and beginners, the simple layout can still work very well.
Best 3-Finger BGMI Control Layout
The 3-finger claw is a good upgrade for players who have outgrown the 2-finger setup. The usual arrangement keeps the left thumb on movement, right thumb on aiming, and uses the left index finger for firing.
This gives you an important advantage: you can move and shoot at the same time without forcing your movement thumb to leave the joystick.
Recommended 3-Finger HUD
Left thumb: Movement
Left index: Fire
Right thumb: Aim, scope and movement actions
Top-left: Fire button
Right side: Scope, crouch and jump
Upper-right: Peek buttons
Move the left fire button toward the upper-left corner so your index finger can reach it naturally. Keep the joystick in its normal position and leave enough empty space around it for smooth movement.
The 3-finger setup is particularly useful for close-range fights because you can strafe while firing. It is also a relatively easy transition for players coming from 2-finger controls.
Best 4-Finger BGMI Control Layout
The 4-finger claw is one of the most popular advanced BGMI control layouts because it separates the main combat actions between 4 fingers.
A common setup uses the left thumb for movement, left index for firing, right thumb for aiming and right index for scoping or other upper-screen actions.
Recommended 4-Finger HUD
Left thumb: Movement joystick
Left index: Fire
Right thumb: Camera and aim
Right index: Scope and peek
Top-left: Fire button
Top-right: Scope/peek buttons
Right side: Jump and crouch
Lower-right: Camera controls
The biggest advantage is that your thumbs remain dedicated to movement and camera control while your index fingers handle important combat buttons.
This makes actions such as moving + aiming + firing + scoping much easier to perform together. That is why 4-finger claw is widely associated with competitive BGMI gameplay.
However, do not expect immediate improvement after switching. Your muscle memory needs time to adapt. Start in Training Mode and TDM instead of immediately using the new HUD in ranked matches.
Best 5-Finger BGMI Control Layout
The 5-finger setup is designed for players who want to separate even more actions. It can provide excellent control during aggressive fights, but it has the steepest learning curve.
A practical 5-finger BGMI control layout can use:
Left thumb: Movement
Left index: Fire
Right thumb: Camera and aim
Right index: Scope and peek
Extra finger: Jump, crouch, prone or another frequently used action
The exact fifth-finger assignment depends heavily on your device and grip. Some advanced players use the extra finger for movement actions, while others dedicate it to another combat button.
Community examples show that 5-finger players use different combinations, including full-gyro and non-gyro layouts. This highlights an important point: there is no universally correct 5-finger HUD.
How To Build the Best BGMI Control Layout
Instead of copying a random HUD, build your BGMI control layout around your natural hand position.
First, hold your phone exactly as you normally do while playing. Then place the joystick under your left thumb and the camera area under your right thumb.
Next, position the fire and scope buttons where your index fingers can reach them without stretching. Keep jump, crouch and prone close enough to access quickly but far enough apart to avoid accidental taps.
Button size also matters. Frequently used buttons should be easy to hit, while less important controls can be smaller and placed toward the edges.
A copied control code can be a useful starting point, but it should not be treated as a perfect final setup. Even guides discussing BGMI control codes recommend adjusting imported layouts around your own grip and screen size.
Best BGMI HUD Setup for Different Players
Beginners: Start with 2-finger controls. Focus on movement, aim and basic combat before learning claw.
Players switching from 2-finger: Try 3-finger claw first. Adding a dedicated fire finger makes the transition easier.
Rank push players: A 4-finger setup offers a strong balance between speed and control once you build muscle memory.
Competitive players: 4-finger is a strong all-round choice, while 5-finger can work for players who are comfortable with more complex controls.
Tablet players: You have more screen space, so you can spread buttons farther apart and make index-finger controls easier to reach.
Tips To Improve Your BGMI Control Layout
Keep the joystick area clean.
Place fire and scope buttons where your index fingers naturally rest.
Avoid putting important buttons too close together.
Use a larger button for actions you frequently miss.
Test your HUD in Training Mode before ranked matches.
Practice the new layout in TDM.
Change one or two buttons at a time instead of rebuilding everything repeatedly.
Give your muscle memory enough time to adapt.
Adjust the layout according to your device and hand size.
Most importantly, do not change your HUD every few days. A slightly imperfect layout that you have mastered is usually more useful than a theoretically perfect setup that you have not practiced.
The best BGMI control layout depends on your experience and comfort. 2-finger controls are ideal for beginners, while 3-finger claw provides an easy step toward faster combat. 4-finger claw offers the best balance for players who want competitive-level control, while 5-finger claw is better suited to advanced players who are comfortable with a more complicated HUD.
If you are currently using 2 fingers, move to 3 fingers first rather than immediately copying a 5-finger setup. Once the new controls feel natural, you can add more actions and build a HUD around your own playstyle.
FAQs
Which BGMI control layout is best for beginners?
The 2-finger layout is the easiest for beginners because it uses both thumbs and requires very little adjustment.
Is 4-finger better than 3-finger in BGMI?
A 4-finger setup can provide more simultaneous control, especially during aggressive fights, but it is harder to learn. A comfortable 3-finger HUD can still be highly effective.
Is 5-finger claw worth using in BGMI?
It can be useful for advanced players who want to separate more actions, but it requires significant practice. It is not automatically better than 4-finger claw.
Should I copy a pro player’s BGMI HUD?
You can use a pro HUD as a starting point, but adjust button positions and sizes according to your device, hand size and comfort.
How long does it take to learn a new BGMI HUD?
The time varies from player to player. Start with Training Mode and TDM, and avoid changing the layout repeatedly while your muscle memory is developing.
The MSI 2026 Playoffs are already proving why the Mid-Season Invitational remains one of League of Legends‘ premier international events. After an action-packed opening weekend of the knockout stage, fans have been treated to high-level gameplay, unexpected results, and standout performances from some of the game’s biggest stars.
The playoffs began with several blockbuster matchups that immediately raised the stakes. Hanwha Life Esports secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Team Secret Whales, while G2 Esports shocked many by eliminating Top Esports in a hard-fought 3-2 series. A day later, Bilibili Gaming edged out T1 in another thrilling five-game battle, one of the most talked-about series of the tournament so far. Meanwhile, LYON also advanced after a dominant sweep over FURIA.
Knockout Stage Continues to Impress
As of 5 July, the tournament continues with another exciting slate of matches. Team Secret Whales are set to face Top Esports in the lower bracket, while G2 Esports take on Hanwha Life Esports in a crucial best-of-five series. Both matches could significantly reshape the road to the MSI 2026 title.
The current meta on Patch 26.13 has encouraged aggressive team fighting and flexible drafting, allowing star players to showcase their mechanical skill. Teams have displayed a wide variety of champion picks, with coaching staffs adapting quickly to opponents throughout each series.
Star Players Stepping Up
Several players have already become the faces of the tournament. Bilibili Gaming demonstrated remarkable composure against defending champions T1, while G2 Esports reminded fans why Europe remains a dangerous region on the international stage with its upset victory over Top Esports.
Hanwha Life Esports have also looked dominant, combining disciplined macro play with decisive team fights to establish themselves as one of the favorites heading deeper into the bracket. With every remaining team featuring world-class talent, fans can expect even more memorable moments in the coming days.
Looking Ahead
The MSI 2026 Playoffs have delivered exactly what League of Legends fans hoped for: elite competition, dramatic upsets, and unforgettable performances. With several championship contenders still in the hunt, the race for the MSI trophy is only becoming more competitive.
If the opening rounds are any indication, the best matches of MSI 2026 may still be ahead.
Over the past few weeks, we’ve seen the gaming community erupt over Sony’s decision to stop making PlayStation game discs. We’ve seen outbursts break out throughout the world over digital ownership, game preservation, and the future of physical media on consoles.
Now it seems that the company is walking back some of the panic.
As per a recent report from Game File, Sony has told publisher partners that games already released on disc won’t disappear once the January 2028 cutoff hits. Publishers will still be able to request new print runs of existing titles for years to come. However, the ordering process itself is changing, but Sony hasn’t shared specifics at the time of writing.
The original announcement, which was made via the PlayStation Blog on July 1, stated that all new games launching after January 2028 will be sold only in digital form. Sony called it a natural shift, and pointed to internal data showing most PS4 and PS5 purchases already happen digitally.
“This transition will enable us to align more closely with how most of our community prefers to access and play games today,” Sony’s statement reads.
Needless to say, fans weren’t convinced. A petition opposing the move quickly surfaced on Change.org, gaining tens of thousands of signatures within hours. Online communities labeled it as the first step toward eliminating game ownership entirely.
While this latest clarification from Sony somewhat softens that blow, big questions still loom within the community.
It’s still unclear whether future physical releases will include actual discs or just cards with download codes, a format already used by some publishers.
For now, existing physical collections seem to be safe.
