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Red Bull Extends Multiyear Partnerships with VCT EMEA and LEC Through 2026

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Red Bull is doubling down on its commitment to esports. The energy drink giant has officially extended its multiyear partnerships with both VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT) EMEA and the League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC) through 2025 and 2026.

As the Official Energy Drink of both premier leagues, Red Bull continues to fuel some of the most competitive esports arenas in the world.

VCT EMEA x Red Bull: A Five-Year Milestone

Since first partnering in 2021, Red Bull and VCT EMEA have become synonymous with high-octane moments and unforgettable plays. With this extension, the collaboration hits a five-year milestone, further solidifying Red Bull’s role in supporting VALORANT’s competitive ecosystem in the region.

Fans can look forward to the continuation of “Clutch Moments”, where Red Bull will spotlight jaw-dropping plays during tournament broadcasts. These segments have become a favorite among viewers for reliving the tensest highlights from VCT events.

Beyond the broadcast, Red Bull will also be hosting community tournaments in 2025 and 2026, inviting top VALORANT teams from around the globe to participate in high-stakes showdowns. Details for these events will be revealed soon.

Meanwhile, the Riot Games Arena in Berlin will keep its energy levels high, with chilled Red Bull cans provided to VCT EMEA talent and players throughout the season.

LEC x Red Bull: Continued Energy for Baron Buffs and Beyond

Red Bull’s partnership with the LEC began in 2019, and the energy hasn’t fizzled since. The latest extension through 2026 ensures that Red Bull will continue to power every Baron Power Play, one of the most iconic in-game moments in competitive League of Legends.

Following the success of the Red Bull League of its Own event in 2024, the brand is expected to roll out even more innovative activations and content in the coming seasons, giving fans fresh experiences both on and off the Rift.

The Riot Games Arena in Berlin will also remain fully stocked for LEC talent, maintaining the fast-paced energy the league is known for.

Red Bull’s involvement in esports goes far beyond product placement. By actively engaging with the community, supporting broadcast integrations, organizing tournaments, and fueling players and fans alike, the brand continues to be a staple in the esports world.

This renewed commitment to both VCT EMEA and LEC highlights Red Bull’s long-term vision to invest in and elevate competitive gaming at the highest level.

With Red Bull extending its official partnerships with both VCT EMEA and LEC through 2026, fans can expect more thrilling plays, innovative events, and unforgettable esports moments. Whether it’s a last-second clutch in VALORANT or a game-winning Baron Power Play in League of Legends, Red Bull is making sure the action never runs out of energy.

Marvel Rivals Exploit: Doctor Strange & Jeff Trap Foes in 2025

Marvel Rivals, the superhero-packed PvP shooter from NetEase Games, has hit a snag that’s leaving players both frustrated and fascinated. A newly discovered exploit, uncovered by the game’s dedicated community, is turning matches upside down by allowing characters like Doctor Strange and Jeff the Land Shark to teleport enemies outside the playable map – permanently. This game-breaking bug, is raising eyebrows and prompting urgent calls for a fix as it tilts the battlefield in favor of those who know how to wield it.

The exploit hinges on a clever combination of abilities and map quirks. Players have found that Doctor Strange’s portal ability, when positioned just right in buggy map locations like Klyntar, can send unsuspecting opponents to areas they can’t escape from. Adding fuel to the fire, Jeff the Land Shark’s ultimate ability amplifies the chaos. With precise timing, Jeff can swallow an entire enemy team and deposit them through the portal into this inescapable limbo. Once trapped, players are stuck watching their team lose objectives, with no way back unless they disconnect and rejoin—a risky move that often comes too late to salvage the match.

This isn’t the first time Marvel Rivals has seen players push its mechanics to the limit. From Wolverine’s overpowered attacks to cooldown-resetting tricks, the community has a knack for finding cracks in the game’s design. However, this latest exploit takes things to a new level, exploiting known map flaws—like Klyntar’s notorious “lockout” spots—to devastating effect. One player shared a tale of accidentally leaping too high as Hulk, only to find themselves sealed off from the action for the rest of the game. Now, crafty teams are weaponizing these quirks intentionally, securing easy wins by sidelining their foes.

The impact on gameplay is undeniable. Matches that should be thrilling superhero showdowns are instead becoming lopsided affairs, with trapped players powerless to fight back. For the team pulling off the exploit, it’s a free pass to capture points or push objectives unchallenged. But for those on the receiving end, it’s a frustrating experience that’s souring the fun of this otherwise beloved title.

NetEase Games has yet to issue an official response, but the community is buzzing with speculation about an imminent patch. Given the developer’s track record of addressing bugs—like the Doctor Strange team-kill exploit fixed in December 2024—a solution could be on the horizon. Until then, players are left with few options: dodge the exploiters, hope for a quick fix, or reluctantly quit and reconnect when caught in the trap.

Marvel Rivals has earned praise for its dynamic 6v6 action and deep roster of iconic characters, but exploits like this highlight the challenges of balancing a fast-evolving live-service game. As the player base grows, so does the need for robust systems to keep the experience fair and enjoyable. For now, this teleportation trick is a stark reminder that even superheroes can fall victim to the chaos of unintended glitches.

BGIS 2025 Semi Finals Week 1: All Qualified Teams So Far

Battlegrounds Mobile India Series 2025 – BGIS 2025 is about to get fiery as we dive into Semi Finals Week 1. There are 32 teams that have demonstrated top-notch skills and strategy to make it to this deciding stage of the tournament. Here’s a look at all the teams qualified for Semi Finals Week 1 so far.

Qualified Teams for BGIS 2025 Semi Finals Week 1

Following weeks of intense competition, 16 teams have made it through to BGIS 2025 Semi Finals Week 1 through the Quarterfinals. These teams are:

Following are the 16 teams qualified from Quarter Finals:

  1. Mastermind Mavericks
  2. NRI Esports
  3. Phoenix Esports
  4. SOA Esports
  5. IQOO Team Tamilas
  6. Team Jelly
  7. IQOO 8BIT
  8. Hyderabad Hydras
  9. Team Versatile
  10. Genesis Esports
  11. IQOO Revenant XSPARK
  12. 4EVER x Redcross
  13. Glitch X Reborn
  14. MEDAL Esports
  15. Team H4K
  16. TWOB

Following are the 16 teams qualified from Wildcard:

  1. HeroXtreme Godlike
  2. Vasista Esports
  3. Cincinnati Kids
  4. Diesel Esports
  5. Likitha Esports
  6. THW
  7. Team Soul
  8. Reckoning Esports
  9. Altitude
  10. Bot Army
  11. Wobble Gaming
  12. Inferno Squad
  13. FS Esports
  14. Rider Esports
  15. Orangutan 
  16. Troy Tamilan

Meanwhile, the other 16 teams are still battling for qualification through the Wildcard stage. As the tournament gets hotter, the Semi Finals are going to provide even more high-stakes action and drama.

BGIS 2025 Semi Finals Week 1 Overview

In Semi Finals Week 1, these 32 teams will be grouped into four groups of eight. They will compete over four days in a round-robin format. The top eight teams from this week will automatically secure their spots in the Grand Finals, while the remaining 24 teams will have a second chance in Semi Finals Week 2 to fight their way through. It will be exciting to see how the tournament will shape.


Stay ahead in the world of esports with the TalkEsport app! Download now to get instant access to the latest news, live points tables, comprehensive esports calendars, and live streams of your favorite tournaments. Don’t miss out—get the app today.

BGIS 2025 Wildcard: Teams, Schedule, and More

Battlegrounds Mobile India Series 2025 — The intense BGIS 2025 Wildcard stage has commenced, providing a last chance for 64 teams to qualify for Semi Finals Week 1. Full of edge-of-your-seat action and mounting tension, this round is where underdogs and fan favorites meet. Here’s the full rundown of the BGIS 2025 Wildcard teams, schedule, group distribution, and more.

BGIS 2025 Wildcard Teams & Group Distribution

The wildcard phase runs from 24th to 27th March, featuring 64 teams divided into four groups of 16. Each group plays six round-robin matches, and the top 16 teams overall will move on to the next round. Following are the teams and group distribution for this round:

Group A

  • Troy
  • NVS
  • Gods Reign
  • Orangutan
  • Godlike Esports
  • IIT
  • SWE
  • Cinncinati Kids
  • AR
  • Autobotz Esports
  • HALO
  • AKZ
  • FLS4
  • SBA
  • LOC
  • ARZ

Group B

  • Team Eggy
  • Windgod Esports
  • Team Soul
  • ALT
  • Reckoning Esports
  • BAE
  • THW
  • TNC
  • ARC
  • SES
  • AIB
  • ESG
  • CV
  • INTE
  • SBZ
  • INFR

Group C

  • REMP
  • Rivals Apex
  • Raven Esports
  • RES
  • 4Merical Esports
  • Gujarat Tigers
  • DCLW
  • DSL
  • JE
  • 2OP
  • BO7S
  • 4BR
  • OMG
  • MFO
  • HIS
  • MYT

Group D

  • K9 Esports
  • Lithika Esports
  • M4
  • 4TR
  • Vasista Esports
  • DOD
  • VST Esports
  • WG
  • FS Esports
  • ARRC
  • Gods
  • ACEO
  • VOLC
  • RIDR
  • U7
  • Wild Fangs

Where to Watch BGIS 2025 Wildcard

All matches will be streamed live on the official Krafton India Esports YouTube channel, starting from 3:30 PM IST daily. The stream will be available in multiple Indian languages for broader accessibility.


Stay ahead in the world of esports with the TalkEsport app! Download now to get instant access to the latest news, live points tables, comprehensive esports calendars, and live streams of your favorite tournaments. Don’t miss out—get the app today.

Royal Challenge enters esports with Packaged Drinking Water

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Royal Challenge Packaged Drinking Water is making a bold move into India’s burgeoning esports scene, aiming to connect with the nation’s dynamic and tech-savvy youth. This strategic foray underscores the brand’s commitment to embracing contemporary cultural trends and fostering emerging talent.​

Esports in India has witnessed exponential growth, with over 590 million active gamers propelling the gaming economy to a valuation of $3.8 billion.

Notably, 66% of these gamers hail from smaller cities and towns, a surge driven by affordable smartphones, enhanced internet accessibility, and a youthful, tech-adept population.​

Aligning with its ethos of resilience and determination, Royal Challenge Packaged Drinking Water seeks to inspire the next generation of gamers to “Choose Bold.” The brand has collaborated with prominent gaming figures Sid Joshi and Animesh “Thug” Agarwal to empower esports enthusiasts to pursue their passion fearlessly and on their own terms.​

Voices from the Industry

Varun Koorichh, Vice President – Marketing & Portfolio Head at Diageo, emphasized the brand’s vision:​

“The gaming landscape in India is exploding, driven by the energy and passion of gamers across the country. This transformation represents a new wave of bold and ambitious individuals ready to challenge the status quo—values that lie at the heart of Royal Challenge Packaged Drinking Water. Our entry into esports, through collaboration with gaming icons Sid Joshi and Animesh Agarwal, demonstrates our commitment to championing this vibrant community and inspiring them to play by their own rules.”

Animesh “Thug” Agarwal highlighted the essence of the campaign:​

“Success in esports isn’t just about talent—it’s about making bold choices, taking risks, and never backing down. #ChooseBold celebrates that fearless mindset, the passion that drives us, and the community that makes it all possible. The future of Indian esports is here!”

Sid Joshi added:​

“Esports isn’t just a game—it’s a mindset. It’s about taking bold risks, pushing boundaries, and proving what’s possible. #ChooseBold is for every gamer who dreams big, competes fearlessly, and shapes the next era of Indian esports. I’m excited to be part of this movement and share this journey with our fans!”

Hari Krishnan, Managing Director of Publicis Content, remarked on the brand’s initiative:​

“Gaming has become a daily ritual for many Indians, embodying their challenger mindset—one that dares to break conventions and push boundaries. Publicis Play’s strategic roadmap for Royal Challenge Packaged Drinking Water aims to level up the brand’s presence in gaming, tapping into this new passion point and playing a bigger role in pop culture by connecting with the next generation of challengers.”

Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder and Managing Director of NODWIN Gaming, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration:​

“NODWIN Gaming is excited to welcome Royal Challenge Packaged Drinking Water to esports! The brand has long been associated with the spirit of sportsmanship, and its foray into gaming is a natural evolution of that legacy. As esports continues to redefine boldness, their presence in this space strengthens the connection between traditional and new-age sports, inspiring the next generation of players to challenge limits and level up.”

Through strategic alliances, dynamic tournaments, and immersive brand experiences, Royal Challenge Packaged Drinking Water is positioning itself at the forefront of India’s gaming revolution.

By supporting grassroots gaming communities and collaborating with top-tier esports talent, the brand is solidifying its role in this vibrant ecosystem, encouraging gamers to push boundaries and embrace boldness in every game.

BGIS 2025 Wildcard Stage: Teams, Schedule & How to Watch

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The Battlegrounds Mobile India Series (BGIS) 2025 Wildcard Stage is set to ignite the esports scene, offering a thrilling showdown as 64 teams vie for a coveted spot in the Semifinals Week 1. Following the conclusion of the Quarter Finals, this stage provides a critical second chance for teams to prove their mettle. Here’s everything you need to know about the BGIS 2025 Wildcard Stage, including participating teams, schedule, and more.

Introduction to BGIS 2025 Wildcard Stage

The BGIS 2025, organized by Krafton India Esports, continues to captivate the Indian gaming community with its high-stakes competition and a massive INR 2 crore prize pool. After the Quarter Finals wrapped up on March 23, the top 16 teams advanced directly to the Semifinals Week 1. However, the remaining 48 teams from the Quarter Finals, along with 16 squads from Round 4, now enter the Wildcard Stage—a four-day battle running from March 24 to March 27, 2025. This stage is a make-or-break opportunity, with only the top 16 teams advancing further.

For fans and players alike, the Wildcard Stage promises intense action as underdog teams fight to keep their championship dreams alive. Stay updated with all the latest developments on this pivotal phase of the tournament.

Key Details of the BGIS 2025 Wildcard Stage

Teams Competing

  • TROY
  • EGGY
  • REMP
  • K9 Esports
  • LE
  • RIVALS APEX
  • Windgod Esports
  • NV
  • GODS Reign
  • IQOO SOUL
  • Raven
  • M4
  • 4TR
  • RKA-SAS
  • ALT
  • IQOO Orangutan
  • HeroXtreme Godlike
  • IQOO Reckoning
  • 4 Merical
  • VE
  • DOorDIE
  • Gujarat Tigers
  • BOT Esports
  • IIT -TCW
  • SW
  • THW
  • DG -CLAW
  • VST
  • WOB
  • DIESEL
  • TNC
  • Cincinnati Kids
  • AR
  • ARC
  • Jaguar Esports
  • FS Esports
  • ARRCR
  • 2OP
  • SOUR Esports
  • AUTOBOTZ Esports
  • HALO
  • AIB
  • B075
  • GODSGiven
  • ACE Official
  • 4BR
  • ESG
  • AKRO

16 Teams from BGIS 2025 Round 4 will join Wildcard Stage

  • Fearless 4
  • CY Academy
  • WELT OMG
  • LOC x DIE
  • Volcano Esports
  • Shadow Blitz
  • Rider Esport
  • MAFIA Official
  • Intense Esports
  • SBA Esports
  • Universe 7
  • WYLD FANGS
  • Mysterious Esports
  • INT x Furious
  • HAIL INFERNO SQUAD
  • Aerobotz Esports

A total of 64 teams will participate in the Wildcard Stage, comprising:

  • 48 Teams from Quarter Finals: These are the bottom 48 squads from the recently concluded Quarter Finals stage, determined by their overall standings.
  • 16 Teams from Round 4: These teams qualified based on their performance in the earlier Round 4 matches.

While the specific team list isn’t fully detailed yet, fans can expect a mix of seasoned contenders and rising stars. For a deeper dive into the teams that excelled in earlier rounds, check out our coverage of the BGIS 2025 Quarter Finals.

Schedule and Format

The Wildcard Stage will unfold over four days, from March 24 to March 27, 2025, with matches broadcast live for fans to follow every moment. Here’s the breakdown:

  • Dates: March 24–27, 2025
  • Duration: 4 days
  • Format:
    • 64 teams will compete in a series of matches.
    • The top 16 teams, based on cumulative performance, will qualify for Semifinals Week 1.

The exact match structure, including group divisions and daily schedules, will be streamed live on the official Krafton India Esports YouTube channel, ensuring fans don’t miss a single play.

Qualification Pathway

The Wildcard Stage serves as a crucial filter in the BGIS 2025 journey:

  • Advancement: The top 16 teams from this stage will join the 16 Quarter Finals qualifiers in Semifinals Week 1, scheduled for late March to early April.
  • Elimination: Teams failing to secure a top-16 spot will be eliminated, marking the end of their BGIS 2025 campaign.

This stage underscores the competitive depth of BGMI esports in India, showcasing resilience and skill under pressure.

Why the Wildcard Stage Matters

The Wildcard Stage is more than just a stepping stone – it’s a testament to the growing prominence of Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) in the esports ecosystem. With realme as the official smartphone partner, the tournament reflects significant industry investment in mobile gaming. According to a report by Esports Insider, India’s esports market is projected to grow exponentially by 2027, driven by titles like BGMI and events like BGIS.

For teams, this stage is a chance to rebound from earlier setbacks and claim a share of the INR 2 crore prize pool. For fans, it’s an opportunity to witness dramatic comebacks and emerging talent. Explore more about the BGIS 2025 format and its impact on the Indian esports scene in our detailed BGIS 2025 Format Explained.

How to Follow the Action

Fans can catch every match of the BGIS 2025 Wildcard Stage live on the Krafton India Esports YouTube channel. Commentary will be available in Hindi and English, catering to a broad audience. For real-time updates, standings, and highlights, visit TalkEsport’s BGMI section.

Additionally, Krafton’s official website, esports.battlegroundsmobileindia.com, provides schedules, team announcements, and more.

The BGIS 2025 Wildcard Stage is poised to deliver edge-of-the-seat excitement as 64 teams battle for survival in one of India’s premier esports tournaments. Running from March 24 to March 27, this phase will determine which squads join the elite in Semifinals Week 1, inching closer to the Grand Finals in Kolkata from April 18–20. Whether you’re a die-hard BGMI fan or a casual viewer, this is a must-watch event in the 2025 esports calendar.

Stay tuned to TalkEsport for comprehensive coverage, including live updates, team analyses, and predictions as the BGIS 2025 unfolds. Who will rise from the Wildcard Stage to challenge for the title? The answer awaits in the days ahead.

Adin Ross Twitch Return: Unban Date Leaked for March 2025

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Streaming sensation Adin Ross has sent shockwaves through the online community by revealing his alleged return date to Twitch, hinting at an imminent unbanning from the platform that launched his career. The news broke during a conversation captured on AMP’s Agent’s stream, reigniting speculation about Ross’s future in the streaming world. With a controversial exit from Twitch in 2023 and a subsequent rise on rival platform Kick, this potential comeback could mark a pivotal moment for the 24-year-old influencer.

A Surprise Revelation at the Dirty Boxing Championship

The leak occurred on March 22, 2025, during the Dirty Boxing Championship event, where Agent was streaming live on Twitch. While briefly stepping off-screen to greet Ross, Agent’s microphone picked up their exchange. “Yo Adin! How you doing, man?” Agent asked, to which Ross replied, “Good bro, you alright?” The conversation quickly turned intriguing when Ross casually dropped a bombshell: he believes his Twitch unban is just seven days away.

“I could be wrong, that’s what Twitter said,” Ross elaborated. “Well, I don’t know if they said a week or two weeks, but they said a bunch of Twitch streamers are supposed to get unbanned. I don’t know, it’s alright either way.” The ambiguity in his statement reflects the uncertainty surrounding Twitch’s ban policies, but the timeline suggests a return as early as March 29, 2025 – less than a week from today, March 23.

This revelation follows Ross’s earlier comments about working with Twitch to lift his indefinite suspension, a ban that has kept him off the platform since February 25, 2023. Fans and analysts alike are now buzzing with anticipation, eager to see if the streaming giant will indeed reinstate one of its former stars.

The Road to the Ban: A Turbulent Twitch Tenure

Adin Ross’s journey with Twitch has been anything but smooth. Initially rising to fame through NBA 2K streams and high-profile collaborations, Ross became a household name in the streaming community. However, his tenure was marred by multiple suspensions, culminating in a permanent ban in February 2023. The official reason cited by Twitch was “hateful conduct,” stemming from Ross displaying his unmoderated Kick chat- flooded with racist and antisemitic messages-during a stream.

  • Ban History: Ross faced eight bans on Twitch, with earlier infractions including the use of homophobic slurs and accidental violations of community guidelines.
  • The Final Straw: The 2023 incident occurred shortly after Ross announced his move to Kick, where he became a co-owner and prominent figure.
  • Aftermath: Since the ban, Ross has thrived on Kick, hosting events like the Dirty Boxing Championship and maintaining a loyal fanbase.

Ross has consistently expressed a desire to return to Twitch, citing his “passion” for the platform and a wish to collaborate with creators exclusive to it. His efforts gained traction earlier this year when Twitch updated its ban policies on February 19, 2025, stating that violations like hateful conduct could expire after one or two years, depending on severity. With Ross’s ban nearing its two-year mark, this policy shift could pave the way for his reinstatement.

For more on Twitch’s evolving guidelines, check out Twitch’s official Community Guidelines.

Twitch Return Rumors: Fact or Fiction?

Ross’s claim aligns with broader speculation about a wave of unbannings on Twitch. Posts on X and fan discussions have pointed to a possible amnesty for several high-profile streamers, though Twitch has not officially confirmed any such plans. Ross himself hedged his statement, noting that his information came from “Twitter” rather than an official source, leaving room for skepticism.

Earlier this month, Ross told YouTuber FredTalksFighting that he was “working” with Twitch and felt reinstatement was “coming sooner than people think.” This latest leak adds fuel to the fire, suggesting that negotiations may have progressed further than previously thought. However, Twitch’s history of opaque communication about bans means fans will need to wait for concrete confirmation.

What a Return Could Mean for Ross and Twitch

If Ross’s prediction holds true, his return to Twitch could have significant implications for both his career and the platform’s landscape. Since moving to Kick, Ross has solidified his status as a major influencer, leveraging the platform’s relaxed moderation and lucrative deals-such as his reported $2 million monthly sponsorships-to maintain relevance. A Twitch comeback would likely see him bridging his Kick audience with his original Twitch following, potentially boosting viewership numbers.

For Twitch, reinstating Ross could be a strategic move to reclaim a creator who once averaged over 77,000 concurrent viewers per stream, as reported by SullyGnome in 2022. However, it also risks reigniting debates about consistency in ban enforcement, especially given Ross’s high-profile controversies.

  • Fan Reaction: Social media is abuzz, with posts on X celebrating the potential return while others question Twitch’s decision-making.
  • Industry Impact: A successful return could influence other banned streamers to seek reinstatement, reshaping Twitch’s approach to long-term suspensions.

Adin Ross’s leaked Twitch return date has set the stage for what could be one of 2025’s most talked-about streaming comebacks. Whether his unban materializes in seven days or takes longer, the anticipation underscores his enduring influence in the digital space. As the clock ticks toward March 29, all eyes will be on Twitch-and Ross-to see if this chapter of his streaming saga delivers the reunion fans have been clamoring for.

Which Xbox Game Pass Plan Is Right for You in 2025?

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Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service that grants access to a large library of games on Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, and mobile platforms through cloud streaming. If you are a die-hard gamer, you probably have used this subscription service at least once in your lifetime. It has multiple subscription tiers, each of which is suited to a specific type of gamer and platform.

As of 2025, March, Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass has 5 subscription plans in total for various gaming types and platforms. Below is an in-depth summary of each:

1. Xbox Game Pass Core

Xbox Game Pass Core

Xbox Game Pass Core costs $9.99 monthly and is accessible for Xbox consoles. It includes access to online console multiplayer, a handpicked catalog of more than 25 console games, and special offers and discounts. It is the perfect choice for gamers who mainly need online multiplayer functionality and a set of chosen games.

2. PC Game Pass

PC Game Pass

PC Game Pass is specifically designed for PC players and is priced at $11.99 a month. It gives access to the Game Pass library on PC, day-one releases for new games, exclusive discounts and offers, and an EA Play membership. The subscription guarantees PC players a huge library of titles along with extra benefits such as EA Play.

3. Xbox Game Pass Standard

Xbox Game Pass Standard

Xbox Game Pass Standard was first launched in September last year. It is priced at $14.99 monthly and can also be availed for Xbox consoles. It features online console multiplayer, access to the vast Game Pass catalog on Xbox consoles, and special deals and discounts. This tier, however, does not grant instant access to new, day-one titles.

4. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is the most extensive plan with a price tag of $19.99 a month and can be accessed on both Xbox consoles and PC. It offers online console multiplayer, access to the Game Pass library on both Xbox consoles and PC, day-one access to new titles, exclusive discounts and deals, an EA Play membership, and access to Xbox Cloud Gaming. This subscription is aimed at players who want the versatility to play on both console and PC platforms with the bonus of cloud gaming.

Which One Is Perfect for You?

One of the largest differences in the plans is within the game library. The Core plan has a smaller list of around 25 console games, and it is a basic plan for customers who want a small but good collection. The Standard plan offers access to the entire Game Pass library on Xbox but lacks new releases on release day. PC Game Pass provides total access to the extensive collection of PC games, including day-one releases. Therefore, it is an excellent choice for PC gamers. Ultimate is the most comprehensive edition, providing full access to the Xbox and PC libraries, as well as day-one releases.

Day-one releases are also significant for some players. PC Game Pass and Ultimate alone offer new games as soon as they are released. Core and Standard subscribers must wait or buy new games individually.

Multiplayer access is another major feature. Core, Standard, and Ultimate have online multiplayer for Xbox users, so they are a must for people who like to play with friends. PC Game Pass does not, however, offer multiplayer for Xbox games because online multiplayer on PC is free already.

In this article, we have provided a breakdown of all Xbox and PC Game Pass subscription models. We hope it will make it easy for readers like you to compare and choose the right plan. Now it’s up to you which subscription you should choose. Let us know which one you are currently using in the comment section below.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Smashes Records with 2 Million Players

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Ubisoft’s latest blockbuster, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, has stormed onto the gaming scene, crossing an impressive 2 million players within two days of its March 20, 2025 launch. This milestone marks the fastest-growing RPG entry in the franchise’s history, surpassing the early player counts of Assassin’s Creed Origins and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. With its immersive feudal Japan setting and dual protagonists, the game has captured the attention of fans worldwide.

A Record-Breaking Launch for Ubisoft

The numbers speak for themselves. According to a report from Sportskeeda, Assassin’s Creed Shadows hit 1 million players within the first 24 hours, doubling that figure by March 22. Ubisoft confirmed this achievement in an official X post, stating, “2 MILLION PLAYERS! We’re thrilled to celebrate this incredible milestone!” The game’s rapid rise has outpaced the launches of its RPG predecessors, Origins (2017) and Odyssey (2018), cementing its place as a standout title in the franchise.

On Steam, Shadows peaked at over 60,000 concurrent players by Saturday, climbing into the platform’s top 30 most-played games. This figure eclipses Origins (41,541 peak) and edges closer to Odyssey’s record of 61,984, with potential to overtake it as the weekend progresses.

Why Assassin’s Creed Shadows Is Resonating

What’s driving this success? The game’s setting in feudal Japan—a fan-requested backdrop for years—has clearly struck a chord. Players step into the shoes of Naoe, a stealthy shinobi, and Yasuke, a powerful samurai, navigating a visually stunning open world. This dual-protagonist approach blends classic Assassin’s Creed stealth with robust RPG mechanics, offering something for both longtime fans and newcomers.

The reception has been overwhelmingly positive. On Steam, Shadows boasts a “Very Positive” rating from over 3,000 reviews, reflecting strong player approval. Critics have also praised its refined gameplay and breathtaking visuals, with Sportskeeda noting its “successful debut” across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

Comparing Shadows to Past RPG Titles

While Assassin’s Creed Shadows has outdone Origins and Odyssey in early player engagement, it’s worth noting that Ubisoft hasn’t released specific sales figures yet. The 2 million player count likely includes Ubisoft+ subscribers alongside direct purchases, making direct comparisons to past titles tricky. For context, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla (2020) remains the franchise’s biggest PC launch, though exact player numbers from its debut are unavailable.

Still, Shadows is on track to challenge franchise records. Its Steam performance already surpasses Valhalla’s peak of 15,431 concurrent players, a notable feat given Valhalla’s delayed Steam release.

What’s Next for Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

With the launch weekend in full swing, Ubisoft anticipates even higher numbers as more players dive in. The game’s momentum suggests it could redefine the franchise’s RPG era, building on the foundation laid by Origins and Odyssey. Future updates and expansions, like the promised Awaji Island content, may further boost its staying power.

For now, Assassin’s Creed Shadows stands as a triumph for Ubisoft, proving that a bold setting and polished execution can still captivate millions.

Sacy cancels retirement to return to Valorant as MIBR content creator

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Gustavo “Sacy” Rossi, a celebrated name in Valorant esports, has made a surprising return to the scene. After announcing his retirement from competitive play in September 2024, Sacy has joined MIBR as a content creator, marking a new chapter in his illustrious career. The Brazilian esports organization confirmed the news on March 18, 2025, delighting fans who had speculated about his next move.

Sacy’s return to Valorant with MIBR comes after a standout tenure with teams like LOUD and Sentinels. Known for his tactical brilliance, he helped LOUD clinch the Valorant Champions title in 2022. His decision to step away from competition left many wondering what was next – now, they have their answer.

From Champion to Content Creator

Sacy’s journey in Valorant has been nothing short of remarkable. Starting with Team Vikings, he represented Brazil at the game’s first international event. His defining moment came with LOUD, where he showcased leadership alongside stars like pANcada and aspas. Later, with Sentinels, he contributed to victories at VCT 2024 Americas Kick-off and Masters Madrid.

Retirement seemed like the end of his story, but MIBR saw an opportunity. By signing Sacy as a content creator, the organization taps into his deep game knowledge and charisma. This move keeps him connected to the Valorant community while opening doors to new creative pursuits.

What Sacy Brings to MIBR

MIBR, a powerhouse in Brazilian esports, aims to strengthen its bond with fans through Sacy’s content. He will host watch parties for major tournaments like VCT Americas, Game Changers, and Valorant Challengers Brazil. Fans can expect entertaining commentary and insights from a world champion’s perspective.

His fluency in Portuguese and strong ties to Brazil’s gaming scene make him a perfect fit. MIBR’s announcement highlighted this synergy, noting that Sacy’s presence will boost engagement both locally and globally. This strategic signing reflects the team’s commitment to its community.

Sacy’s shift to content creation doesn’t mean he’s stepping away from Valorant’s competitive spirit. Instead, it’s a pivot that keeps him relevant in the ecosystem. Fans have already taken to platforms like X to express excitement, with posts praising his legacy and anticipating his watch party streams.

For MIBR, this move signals a broader vision. Pairing a legendary player with their brand elevates their content game. As Sacy embarks on this journey, all eyes are on how he’ll shape his new role and inspire the next generation of Valorant players.