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Embark is Planning to Tweak Arc Raiders Expedition After Listening to Community Feedback

With a few weeks having passed since the launch of the first Arc Raiders Expedition and with the second one rapidly approaching, Embark has confirmed that it is planning to tweak the current Expedition format after listening to feedback from the game’s community.

In a recent interview with PCGamesN, Arc Raiders design director Virgil Watkins stated that over 1 million gamers had participated in the first Arc Raiders Expedition, with nearly 35-40% of those players claiming the full 5 Skill Points after accumulating over 5 million coins in their stash.

However, the 5 million coin requirement for the Skill Points drew in mixed reactions from the community, with many players claiming that it introduced a layer of ‘gear fear’ that isn’t healthy for the game.

“One of the bigger topics [of feedback] was the requirements for the final stage to get the skill points, and probably going out a bit too late with that information, because we wanted to hold off until we could calibrate it around the actual economy of the player base, rather than trying to guess really early on,” Watkins said in the interview. “So then, when we chose the number, which was the five million credits for the full thing, [we set] that as an aspirational goal that some players might achieve. But then I think a lot of players took that as like, ‘Well, now I have to do that to get it.’”

As a result, Embark is aiming to introduce “revisions” on the Arc Raiders Expedition system to fix these underlying problems. While the devs have yet to confirm exactly how they plan to address the issues with the current Expedition format, the community is hoping that the 5 million coin requirement for the full set of skill points will be lowered.

“We completely acknowledge that it isn’t the most engaging thing to just go for money, [and it has] the potential outcome of disincentivizing using your gear, which is kind of what people look forward to towards the end of a reset cycle,” he said. “So yeah, we’re looking at revisions on that.”

Since the last Expedition, both the general player base and content creators have come up with a number of potential changes to the system that can make your Raider’s departure feel a bit more engaging, and with the second Expedition still being a little ways down the road, Embark should have plenty of time to assess their options before introducing a big change.

Official BGMI 4.2 Update Release Date and Time Announced

Krafton India has officially revealed the BGMI 4.2 update release date and time. The upcoming major update for Battlegrounds Mobile India will introduce the brand-new Primewood Genesis theme mode, along with several gameplay improvements. Players can expect new animal vehicles, special events, abilities, themed areas, exclusive items, and other fresh additions. Below are the complete details of the BGMI 4.2 update, including release schedule and download steps.

Official BGMI 4.2 Update Release Date and Time Announced

BGMI 4.2 Update Release Schedule

  • Release Date: 15 January 2026
  • Android (Google Play Store): 6:30 AM IST
  • iOS (Apple App Store): 9:30 AM IST
  • APK File (Official BGMI Website): 12:30 PM IST
  • Full Rollout Completion: By evening on all devices

The official BGMI 4.2 update release date is 15 January 2026, with the rollout starting early morning across Android, iOS, and APK platforms. Android users will be able to download the update from the Google Play Store starting at 6:30 AM IST, while iOS users will receive the update on the Apple App Store at 9:30 AM IST. Players who prefer installing the game via APK can download the official file from the Battlegrounds Mobile India website at 12:30 PM IST. The update rollout is expected to be completed across all devices by the evening.

Read More: BGMI New Season Date and Time January 2026: C9S26 End and Tier Reset

How to Download BGMI 4.2 Update on Google Play Store (Android)

Follow these steps to download the BGMI 4.2 update on Android devices:

  • Open the Google Play Store on your device
  • Search for Battlegrounds Mobile India
  • Tap on the Update button
  • Wait for the download to complete
  • Open the game and install in-game resources

Make sure you have enough free storage and a stable internet connection.

How to Download BGMI New Update on Apple App Store (iOS)

iOS users can download the update by following these steps:

  • Open the Apple App Store
  • Search for Battlegrounds Mobile India
  • Tap on Update once it becomes available
  • Complete the download
  • Launch the game and finish resource installation

How to Download BGMI 4.2 APK from Official Website

For players who prefer APK installation, Krafton will also provide the official APK file.

  • Visit the official Battlegrounds Mobile India website
  • Download the BGMI 4.2 APK file
  • Enable Install from Unknown Sources on your device
  • Install the APK file
  • Open the game and download in-game resources

Always download the APK only from the official BGMI website to avoid security risks.

What’s New in BGMI New Update

The update will bring:

  • Primewood Genesis theme mode
  • Two new animal vehicles
  • New abilities and gameplay mechanics
  • Special events and themed areas
  • Exclusive items and fresh additions

With the BGMI 4.2 update release date set for 15 January 2026, players can get ready to explore new content and features in Battlegrounds Mobile India. Stay tuned for more BGMI updates and detailed feature breakdowns.

Free Fire OB52 Download Date and Time Revealed: How to Download, New Features, Characters, and Major Changes

Garena has officially confirmed the Free Fire OB52 update download date and time, ending weeks of anticipation among players. The upcoming update is expected to be one of the biggest Free Fire updates, as it brings a global collaboration with the popular anime Jujutsu Kaisen, along with new characters, gameplay features, map changes, weapon balance updates, and several quality-of-life improvements. Here is everything players need to know about the FF OB52 update, including the download process and full list of changes.

Free Fire OB52 Download Date and Time

The Free Fire OB52 update is scheduled to release on 14 January 2026. The update download will begin at 9:30 AM IST. Once the rollout starts, the game servers will go under maintenance for more than an hour.

After the maintenance period ends, players will be able to log in and access all the new content included in the OB52 update. Since this is a major patch, players are advised to download the update as soon as it becomes available to avoid login delays.

How to Download Free Fire OB52 Update (Step-by-Step)

Players can download the Free Fire OB52 update by following these simple steps:

  • Open the Google Play Store or Apple App Store on your device
  • Search for Free Fire or Free Fire MAX
  • Tap on the Update button once it appears
  • Wait for the download to complete
  • Open the game and allow in-game resources to install

Make sure you have a stable internet connection and enough free storage space before starting the download to avoid interruptions.

Free Fire Advance Server Download Closed

The Free Fire OB52 Advance Server download was closed on 9 January 2026 after allowing selected players to test the upcoming features. The Advance Server remained live until the same date. After its closure, Garena will roll out the final Free Fire OB52 update globally on 14 January 2026 for all players.

Jujutsu Kaisen Collaboration in Free Fire New Update

The biggest highlight of the OB52 update is the Jujutsu Kaisen collaboration. The collaboration introduces anime-themed events, locations, cosmetics, and special gameplay elements. Popular anime visuals will also be added to the map, especially in key areas like Peak, which will turn into a themed location during the event period.

New Character Added: Morse

A new character named Morse has been added in the Free Fire OB52 update. Morse is a stealth-based character who can turn invisible during combat.

  • At long range, Morse becomes completely invisible
  • At mid-range, enemies can partially see him
  • At close range, a red outline appears, making him easier to detect

While invisible, Morse cannot use guns but can still throw grenades, making him effective for surprise attacks and ambush gameplay.

New Gameplay Features in Free Fire Next Update

The OB52 update introduces several new gameplay features:

Free Fire now includes an Offline Mode, allowing players to access a Craftland puzzle mini-game even without an internet connection. This is useful during network issues.

A new Fishing feature has been added to Social Island. Players can fish and collect items such as fish and turtles.

Arsenals have been improved. Squads no longer always need a key, as Arsenal doors can now be broken by shooting them together.

Vehicles now come with a speed boost button. The boost lasts for 6 seconds and has a 20-second cooldown, helping players escape enemies or the safe zone faster.

The new Ultra Beacon feature allows players to obtain Ultra Helmets and Ultra Vests, which are stronger than Level 4 gear and are nearly unbreakable.

Map and Visual Changes in OB52 Update

Several map-related changes have been made in the OB52 update:

The Peak area has been reworked with a new layout and will feature Jujutsu Kaisen visuals during the collaboration.

The Crashed Plane has returned with small missions that offer additional gameplay tasks.

New buildings have been added, including a Saloon building under the Choppy Cut collaboration.

Revive portals now feature clearer icons and a green blinking effect, making it easier to track revives during matches.

The Free Fire OB52 update also focuses on user experience improvements. Players can now copy a friend’s HUD and Sensitivity settings using a code. New presets are available for Three-Finger, Sniper, and Rusher playstyles.

Match result screens now display performance ratings, including numerical scores and medals such as Gold and Silver.

The Photo Mode has been upgraded with five new filters and additional background items like a Snowman.

Read More: Free Fire MAX Booyah Premier League Auction Live Updates: Teams, Players Bought & Purse Left

Weapon Balance Changes in FF OB52 Update

Several weapons have received balance adjustments:

  • Groza and Groza-X deal more damage and have improved armor penetration.
  • SVD and SVD-Y are now more accurate.
  • M249 has a higher fire rate.
  • Thompson and Thompson-X have faster firing speed.
  • MAC-10 now offers better damage and accuracy.
  • The M590 Shotgun no longer has chip damage. It is stronger at close range but weaker at mid-range.
  • The Heal Pistol now fires faster and has more ammo, but healing per shot has been reduced from 25 HP to 20 HP.

Character Balance Changes

Some characters have been adjusted for balance. Tatsuya and Wukong have been nerfed, with their skill resets now limited to a 10-second window. If no knock is achieved during this time, the skill goes on a full 90-second cooldown.

On the other hand, Xayne has received a major buff, making her more effective and viable in competitive matches.

The FF OB52 update is shaping up to be a massive content drop with the Jujutsu Kaisen collaboration, new characters, major gameplay features, and important balance changes. With the Free Fire OB52 download date confirmed as 14 January 2026 at 9:30 AM IST, players should prepare their devices and get ready to experience one of the most content-rich updates in Free Fire history.

BGMI 4.2 Update Release Date, Theme Mode, Features, New Weapon and More

Krafton has officially revealed the details of the BGMI 4.2 update, which is one of the most awaited updates for Battlegrounds Mobile India players. The new update introduces the Primewood Genesis theme mode, along with magical elements, new abilities, mounts, weapons, and quality-of-life improvements. Check out the BGMI 4.2 update release date and features.

BGMI 4.2 Update Release Date and Time

The BGMI 4.2 update is scheduled to release on 15 January 2026. Android users will be able to download the update from the Google Play Store starting at 6:30 AM, while iOS users will receive the update around 9:30 AM. Players are advised to keep enough storage space and a stable internet connection before downloading the update.

Primewood Genesis Theme Mode Explained

Primewood Genesis is a nature and greenery-based theme mode introduced in the BGMI 4.2 update. The mode focuses on magical elements and enhanced mobility. A major highlight of this mode is the Tree of Life, which allows players to jump around and gain high ground advantage during fights.

Corrupting Flower Feature

Another important addition is the Corrupting Flower. This plant releases toxic green smoke that damages enemies caught inside it. The feature can be very useful in close combat situations and while clearing enemies from covered areas.

Magical Seeds, Golden Fruits and Barkal

Players can now use Magical Seeds, which can be planted during matches. These seeds grow into Golden Fruits, allowing players to summon Barkal. Barkal is a tree-like bulletproof companion that provides protection from enemy fire and can also help with revival support in critical situations.

New Vehicles and Mounts in BGMI New Update

The update introduces new mounts to improve movement across the map. The Sacred Deer offers fast and smooth travel, making rotations easier. Meanwhile, the Thorn Scorpio is designed for more aggressive gameplay and adds a unique combat-style travel option.

Read More: Maharashtra Cyber Takes Action in Payal Gaming Deepfake Case, Uploaders Identified and Notices Issued

Romantic and Interaction Features

BGMI new update 4.2 also adds fun interaction elements. Players can use flower bouquets and the Rosy Ring, which allows partners to fly together. These features are designed to enhance duo gameplay and social interactions in the game.

Training Ground and Movement Improvements

Krafton has improved the Training Ground, allowing players to enter with their entire squad. The parachute system has also been updated, letting players open parachutes just before landing, resulting in faster and smoother landings.

Connectivity Improvements and Prime Eye Feature

A new connectivity system has been added where the game automatically switches to mobile data if Wi-Fi disconnects, ensuring uninterrupted gameplay. Additionally, the Prime Eye feature provides four abilities: Barrier, Teleport, Heal, and Corrupting Flower, giving players more tactical options during matches.

New Weapon: Honey Badger

The BGMI 4.2 update introduces a new weapon called the Honey Badger. This gun boosts the player’s health when enemies are hit, making it highly effective during close-range fights and clutch moments.

Bhojpuri Language Support Added to BGMI

With the 4.2 update, BGMI now supports the Bhojpuri language. This addition brings a stronger regional connection and enhances the overall gaming experience for Bhojpuri-speaking players.

Overall, the BGMI 4.2 update is set to bring a fresh and exciting experience for players with the new Primewood Genesis theme mode, magical gameplay features, new mounts, and quality-of-life improvements. With the BGMI 4.2 update release date confirmed as 14 January, players can get ready to explore new mechanics, weapons, and abilities. This update aims to make gameplay smoother, more engaging, and more enjoyable for the BGMI community.

ESL and BLAST Announce Map Pool Change

The competitive CS2 map is currently undergoing a major shift as ESL and BLAST have now confirmed the use of Anubis for the upcoming tournaments. This is a major milestone in the resumption of the Egyptian map’s use in professional esports events after months of speculation among fans.

Valve announced Anubis’s return to the map pool in Active Duty on January 9, 2026, in place of Train, from January 19, with the beginning of CS2 Premier Season 4. ESL quickly responded and included Anubis in their tournament setup from day one. The IEM Rio qualifiers from January 19 will include the new map rotation, with IEM Krakow 2026, the first LAN event of the year, starting from January 28.

BLAST Bounty 2026 follows suit, with the inclusion of the new map, Anubis, from January 13, thus becoming the first major competition to have the map in its rotation. Cohesiveness in the measures put in place by both ESL and BLAST shows incredible synergy in the world of Counter-Strike, thus eliminating the fragmentation that used to exist in the competition circuits.

The return of Anubis recognizes community concerns about Train’s presence in the Active Duty Matchmaking pool. Train’s popularity was low after a year in circulation, making professional teams challenging because they always relied on chosen map strategies.

In T-side on Anubis, Terrorists have maintained a 54.8 percent win rate in 2024 competitive games, which benefits teams who have traditionally performed well in CT-sided maps.

What’s your opinion on the map pool change? Do you prefer Anubis to Train? Or was the previous pool more appealing to you? Let us know in the comments below.

DRX PUBG Mobile 2026 Roster Revealed

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South Korean esports organization DRX is wasting no time preparing for the upcoming competitive season. The team has officially announced its PUBG Mobile roster for 2026, introducing fresh talent as it sets its sights on international success.

Despite a strong 2025 campaign that saw DRX consistently place among the world’s top teams, management has opted to revamp the lineup ahead of the new year. Three new players have been signed to reshape the squad, signaling a clear intent to push for titles in PUBG Mobile esports 2026.

DRX PUBG Mobile 2026 Roster

The newly revealed DRX PUBG Mobile 2026 roster blends experience with raw mechanical skill. The confirmed lineup is:

  • QX (Lee Kyung-seok)
  • BINI (Kwon Soon-bin)
  • Hoxy (Kim Seong-hwan)
  • TRE (Kwak Dong-hyun)

QX remains the only player retained from the previous roster, offering leadership and continuity within the team. Hoxy and TRE arrive from FN Esports, where they developed strong synergy after competing together for more than six months. Meanwhile, BINI joins DRX following a year-long stint with NongShim RedForce.

Departing Players from DRX in 2026

To make room for the new additions, DRX has parted ways with HYUNBIN, Cyxae, and SOEZ.

The trio played a crucial role in DRX’s success throughout 2025. HYUNBIN, in particular, stood out as a key performer and earned MVP honors during the team’s championship-winning run at the Battlegrounds Mobile India International Cup (BMIC) 2025. As of now, none of the departing players have revealed their next destinations for the 2026 season.

DRX’s Competitive Record Ahead of 2026

Since entering the PUBG Mobile scene in June 2024, DRX has quickly established itself as a top-tier contender in global competition. The team’s recent achievements include:

PMGC 2025 – 6th place
PMWC 2025 – 4th place
PMPS 2025 Season 1 – Champions
BMIC 2025 – Champions

With Krafton confirming four major international events for 2026, including two seasons of the PUBG Mobile Global Open (PMGO) and the PUBG Mobile World Cup (PMWC), DRX will be aiming to turn consistent top-six finishes into championship trophies. The addition of BINI, Hoxy, and TRE highlights the organization’s ambition to challenge for the top spot in PUBG Mobile esports next year.firepower in BINI, Hoxy, and TRE signals that they are hungry for the number one spot.

HLTV Top 20 Players of 2025: ZywOo Reclaims the Throne, Donk settles for #2

The wait is finally over. The HLTV Top 20 Players of 2025 have been revealed, cementing the legacy of a season defined by youth, aggressive rifling, and massive roster shuffles. As the dust settles on the HLTV Awards ceremony, one name stands above the rest, while a new challenger from Kazakhstan has completely reshaped the hierarchy of the top tier.

Here is your comprehensive look at the best Counter-Strike 2 players of 2025.

The Top 3: The Vitality Era

1. Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut (Vitality)

  • The King Returns: After ceding the throne in 2024, ZywOo bounced back with arguably the most complete year of his career. He secured 8 MVP medals in 2025, tying s1mple’s record for most MVPs in a calendar year.
  • Historic Achievement: With this win, ZywOo becomes the first player in history to win 4 HLTV Player of the Year awards, officially breaking the tie with s1mple (3).

2. Danil “donk” Kryshkovets (Team Spirit)

The Sophomore Slump? Hardly: The 2024 Player of the Year continued his reign of terror, posting the highest raw rating of the year (1.35 at Big Events). However, a lack of team trophies in the second half of the season pushed him to the runner-up spot. Donk still claimed the Highlight of the Year for his 1v5 clutch against Vitality.

3. Robin “ropz” Kool (Vitality)

  • Transfer of the Year: The biggest storyline of 2025 was ropz leaving FaZe Clan to join Vitality on a free transfer. The move paid off immediately. Ropz reinvented the lurking role within Vitality’s system, forming a deadly trio with ZywOo and flameZ. His clutch ability in the late rounds was the difference-maker in Vitality’s Major runs.

The Breakout Star: Molodoy (#6)

The shock of the ranking is Danil “molodoy” Golubenko.

Playing for the newly formed “CIS-Brazil” alliance under FURIA, molodoy shocked the world. After joining the roster in April alongside YEKINDAR (#15), the Kazakh AWPer helped FalleN (who transitioned to a rifling IGL role) lead FURIA to a renaissance. Molodoy was rightfully named Rookie of the Year, debuting at an incredible #6 on the list.ngdu Grand Final alone, molodoy has firmly established himself as a top-tier sniper.

Top 20 HLTV Players of 2025

The 2025 ranking reflects a global shift, with South American and Asian teams claiming more spots than ever before.

  • ZywOo (Vitality)
  • donk (Team Spirit)
  • ropz (Vitality)
  • m0NESY (Falcons) — Despite a trophyless year, his individual brilliance keeps him in the top 5.
  • sh1ro (Team Spirit)
  • molodoy (FURIA)
  • flameZ (Vitality)
  • frozen (FaZe Clan)
  • KSCERATO (FURIA)
  • Spinx (MOUZ)
  • Twistzz (FaZe Clan)
  • mezii (Vitality) — Named “Anchor of the Year.”
  • Senzu (The MongolZ)
  • XANTARES (Aurora)
  • YEKINDAR (FURIA)
  • xertioN (MOUZ)
  • torzsi (MOUZ)
  • NiKo (Falcons) — His lowest placement in years.
  • iM (Natus Vincere)
  • b1t (Natus Vincere)

Key Takeaways from the 2025 Season

Vitality’s Superteam Success With four players in the Top 20 (ZywOo, ropz, flameZ, mezii), Vitality was the most represented team of the year. Their strategic depth allowed them to remain a constant threat in every grand final.

FURIA’s Renaissance The addition of YEKINDAR (#15) and molodoy (#6) revitalized the Brazilian giants. Combined with the steady hand of KSCERATO (#9), FURIA has returned to the elite table, proving that their international roster experiment was a massive success.

MOUZ’s Consistency Despite losing key pieces, MOUZ rebuilt quickly. The acquisition of Spinx (#10) gave them the firepower needed to stay competitive, placing three players on the list.

The Falcons Project While m0NESY (#4) had a spectacular individual year, the Falcons “superteam” struggled to convert stats into trophies. NiKo (#18) barely made the cut, signaling a potential changing of the guard for the legendary rifler.

As we look ahead to 2026, the scene is more competitive than ever. Can donk maintain his form? Will molodoy push for the top 3? The new season promises to be just as unpredictable.

Maharashtra Cyber Cracks Down on Payal Gaming Deepfake Uploaders | Notices Issued

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Maharashtra Cyber has taken firm action in the Payal Gaming deepfake case, providing a major update in the ongoing investigation related to the false viral content that was earlier linked to popular Indian gaming creator Payal Dhare, also known as Payal Gaming.

The cybercrime department confirmed that it has successfully detected and acted against those responsible for circulating the objectionable deepfake content online.

Uploaders Apprehended, Notices Issued

In an official statement, Maharashtra Cyber revealed that several individuals involved in uploading and spreading the fake content have already been apprehended. These individuals have been served official notices and have also issued public apologies for their actions.

“Maharashtra Cyber has successfully detected and acted against the Payal Gaming deepfake case. Several uploaders have been apprehended, served notices, and have issued public apologies,” the statement said.

This development marks a significant step in addressing online misinformation and misuse of technology involving public figures.

First Uploader Identified, Arrest Expected Soon

Maharashtra Cyber also confirmed that one of the first uploaders of the objectionable deepfake content has been identified. Authorities stated that the individual will be apprehended soon as part of the ongoing investigation.

“Maharashtra Cyber has also identified one of the first uploaders of the objectionable content, and he will be apprehended soon.”

The department continues to trace the origin and distribution chain of the deepfake video to ensure complete accountability.

Official Video Statement Released by Maharashtra Cyber

Along with the written update, Maharashtra Cyber also released a video statement confirming the action taken in the Payal Gaming case. In the video, officials reiterated their commitment to cracking down on those who misuse technology to spread false, harmful, or defamatory content online.

The video emphasized that strict action will be taken against anyone found violating cyber laws, especially in cases involving deepfakes and identity misuse.

Read More: KRAFTON India honors India’s Gaming Champions at the Inaugural KRAFTON India Awards 2025 with iQOO

Strong Warning Against Misuse of Technology

Reaffirming its stance, Maharashtra Cyber issued a clear warning to individuals misusing digital tools for illegal activities.

“Maharashtra Cyber remains committed to acting firmly against those who misuse technology and violate the law.”

The case has become an important example of growing legal action against deepfake content, online defamation, and cyber harassment, particularly targeting women and public figures.

Earlier, Payal Dhare had issued a public clarification after a false viral video was wrongly linked to her. She denied any connection to the content and urged the public and media to avoid sharing or speculating about it. She also confirmed that legal steps were being taken.

With Maharashtra Cyber now actively intervening, the case highlights the increasing role of law enforcement in tackling deepfake crimes and social media misinformation in India.

CS2 Premier Season 4 Start Date: When Will Counter-Strike 2 Season 4 Begin?

Counter-Strike 2 has grown on the players despite being riddled with bugs and glitches in its early days, and with everything changed around the game, the introduction of the Premier Season has kept players more engaged than ever with its new matchmaking mode.

Word around the community is that Season 4 is on the way, and in this article, we will explore everything known so far.

CS2 Season Schedule So Far

So far, CS2’s Premier mode season has continued with a relatively consistent structure since its inception, with each one lasting 3 to 4 months, giving players time to grind ranks, earn medals, and test themselves against others.

Expected CS2 Season 4 Start Date

If Valve continues the same seasonal timeline, then CS2 Season 4 is set to kick off early 2026, likely with a 1-2 week delay after Season 3 concludes. Historically, Valve has allowed a short off-season period to reset rankings so that players can start from scratch with the season ahead of the next competitive cycle. Given that Season 4 is yet to start and Season 3 is ending on 19th January, it would be safe to assume that we might see it at the beginning of February.

Season 4 will begin one or two weeks after the conclusion of Season 3 on January 19, but the exact date of commencement is yet to be announced by Valve. Only time will tell when the developers commence the new season. Until then, grind out the current season until its last day.