NODWIN Gaming has sold its entire stake in the Evolution Championship Series (EVO), the world’s premier fighting game tournament, to long-time partner RTS. This move supports EVO’s aggressive global scaling plans while freeing NODWIN to laser-focus on high-growth emerging markets.
NODWIN will stay involved as a key partner, leveraging its regional know-how, operations muscle, and community ties to fuel EVO’s expansion in these regions. The handover aligns EVO with RTS’s investment-driven vision, preserving its grassroots legacy as it grows worldwide.
EVO’s Legacy and Next Chapter
For 20+ years, EVO has been the beating heart of the Fighting Game Community (FGC), transforming from a small grassroots event into a global stage uniting players, publishers, and fans. RTS is primed to steer this evolution, amplifying its reach without losing the community spirit.
This divestment sharpens NODWIN’s edge in booming gaming markets like the Global South. Expect more announcements soon on EVO’s emerging market strategy, co-powered by NODWIN.
Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder and Managing Director, NODWIN Gaming, said: “EVO embodies the passion and resilience of the FGC, it’s been an honor to contribute. RTS is the ideal partner to propel it forward globally. For us, this refocuses energy on explosive markets, where we’re building lasting esports ecosystems. We’re EBITDA-positive again since Q3 2025, with 58% YoY revenue growth to INR 530.3 Crore (USD 58.5M) in the first 9 months of FY26.”
NODWIN’s fiscal discipline and market bets position it as a leader in India’s esports surge—watch this space for more.
Garena has officially revealed the 38 teams that have secured their spots in the Free Fire MAX India Cup (FFMIC) 2026 Spring Group Stage through the in-game FFC qualifiers. These squads will now compete in the next phase of India’s biggest Free Fire MAX esports tournament starting from 26 February.
Along with these 38 teams, four City Qualifier teams and six invited teams from FFMIC 2025 will also join the battle, making it a total of 48 teams in the Group Stage.
FFMIC 2026 Spring: 38 Teams Qualified From FFC Mode
Here are the teams that made it through the in-game qualifiers:
Oligarchs
K9 Esports
Freeeyes Gaming
Arise Esports
FX Elite
Team X
True Impact
DW Live
GW Manish
RNX Esports
Knight Novas
Mahabharat Esports
Autobots Esports
Redwunne.ESP
NXT Esports
Prime Aura
4 AM
NG Silver Eagle
AS36Garh
TW Esports
Skull Esports
Adda Kings
The Sleepers
Identicals ES
Black Birds
School Boyz
TeamLegacy
IQEsports
EMZ Esports
Need.Org
MJxOwnLegacy
Godlike Esports
Gyan Gaming
EC Esports
Zenstrikers Esports
Atomic Esports
The Knights
IQOO OGXTSG
City Qualifier Teams
The following four teams have already secured their places through City Qualifiers:
Meta Ninza
Gurunatha Official
Jonty Gaming
UGxGRP
Direct Invites From FFMIC 2025
Six top-performing teams from FFMIC 2025 have directly qualified:
Krafton India’s January 2026 survey asking players about BGMI Lite has sparked speculation, but industry experts warn that the lightweight version will not arrive in 2026 despite growing demand from budget smartphone users.
Battlegrounds Mobile India has become progressively heavier with each update since 2021, creating performance challenges for players using low-end smartphones. Lag, heating issues, low frame rates, and battery drain have become common complaints among budget device users who represent a substantial portion of India’s mobile gaming market.
Krafton Survey Questions Reveal Early Planning Stage
On January 23, 2026, Krafton India conducted a detailed in-game survey that caught everyone’s attention. The most direct indication came from a straightforward question: “Do You Want BGMI Lite?” Players received three response options expressing whether they desperately need the lite version, consider it beneficial but not essential, or have no interest.
However, conducting surveys represents preliminary market research rather than confirming active development. Gaming companies frequently gather user feedback before making major investment decisions, meaning positive responses do not guarantee immediate action.
The survey explored potential features including 20-player matches on smaller maps, fast reload mechanics without attachments, temporary protective walls, auto-aim and auto-fire options, and special weapon powers. These questions suggest Krafton envisions a more casual, accessible approach for budget devices.
Survey questions also addressed performance issues directly, asking about low frame rates, device heating, lag, battery drain, and storage space problems. Additionally, Krafton asked about advertising preferences and monthly subscription pricing for ad removal, indicating consideration of an ad-supported free-to-play model.
BGMI Lite Release Date 2026 In India
The BGMI Lite release date will not happen in 2026. Even if Krafton decides to proceed following positive survey responses, realistic development timelines push the launch to 2027 at earliest. Creating a functional lightweight version requires rebuilding core systems to operate on devices with 1-2GB RAM, optimizing file size to approximately 600MB, and ensuring compatibility with older Android versions.
This comprehensive process typically requires six to nine months minimum. Starting from the January 2026 survey, active development beginning immediately would still miss a 2026 launch window. Industry experts estimate that if Krafton greenlights BGMI Lite today, the realistic date falls in 2027.
Beyond development, a separate lite application requires its own regulatory approval through Indian government agencies. BGMI itself underwent extensive security audits focusing on data privacy and compliance. A standalone BGMI Lite would be treated as an entirely new game requiring separate approval, adding several unpredictable months to the timeline.
Krafton has merely teased the possibility through survey questions rather than confirming development or providing timeline commitments. If the company proceeds based on feedback, the minimum one-year development and approval process means players must wait until 2027. The January 2026 survey represents information gathering, not an imminent launch announcement, requiring patience from the gaming community hoping for performance-optimized battle royale gameplay.
The PUBG Mobile 4.3 Update is expected to roll out soon, bringing a new weapon, racing-themed gameplay, tiered loot houses, and major movement upgrades. The update is likely to arrive right after the current themed mode ends, following the usual update cycle. Players can expect fresh mechanics and nostalgic elements that will change the way matches are played.
PUBG Mobile 4.3 Update Download Date
The PUBG Mobile 4.3 update release date is expected to be March 11, 2026, as the current themed mode is scheduled to end on March 10, 2026. Major updates in PUBG Mobile usually arrive immediately after a themed mode concludes.
If the pattern continues, the update should be available for download on March 11 through the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The rollout may happen in phases, meaning some regions could receive it slightly earlier or later.
New Weapon: M1 Garand
One of the biggest highlights of the PUBG Mobile 4.3 Update is the M1 Garand.
The M1 Garand is a semi-automatic rifle that allows players to fire rapidly with quick tapping. Unlike heavy sniper rifles that require a forced delay between shots, this weapon allows continuous firing without a recoil pause.
Key advantages include:
Fast semi-auto firing
Strong mid- to long-range damage
High skill-based performance
This weapon could become a strong option for players who prefer accurate and controlled shooting.
The 4.3 update introduces a new Tiered Loot House system across the map.
Certain buildings are marked with letters such as C, B, A, and S. Players begin at Tier C and can upgrade their tier by:
Driving vehicles
Getting eliminations
Your tier progresses from C to S. You can only open houses that match or are below your tier level. Higher-tier houses contain better loot, making aggressive gameplay more rewarding.
Racing and Drag Race Events
Racing is a major theme in PUBG Mobile 4.3. Special drag race zones marked with flag icons will appear on the map.
When players cross the starting line in a vehicle, a timed race begins. Completing checkpoints within the time limit rewards players with loot boxes and supplies. This adds a new objective beyond standard combat.
Movement Upgrades and Special Events
The update also brings improved mobility features. Some areas will have gliding rails that allow faster movement across towns. Upgraded launchers now feature a charging animation before sending players to specific loot zones.
Additionally, a new drone event in Water City starts a 150-second countdown when activated, offering rewards upon completion.
The PUBG Mobile 4.3 Update release date is expected to deliver fresh gameplay elements, faster movement options, and exciting racing events. If released on March 11, 2026, players won’t have to wait long to explore everything new in this update.
Jonathan Amaral, professionally known as Jonathan Gaming, stands as India’s most successful esports athlete with an estimated net worth of ₹23 crore in 2026, backed by tournament winnings, YouTube revenue, and premium brand endorsements.
The 23-year-old professional BGMI player for GodLike Esports has transformed competitive mobile gaming in India through exceptional gameplay, consistent tournament performances, and massive social media influence. His journey from casual gamer to millionaire esports star represents the growing financial potential within India’s gaming industry.
Jonathan Gaming Net Worth Reaches ₹23 Crore in 2026
As of early 2026, Jonathan Gaming net worth is estimated between ₹20 crore and ₹23 crore, approximately $2.6 million to $3 million USD. This valuation reflects income from multiple revenue streams that have positioned him among India’s highest-earning gaming content creators.
The primary contributors to Jonathan Gaming net worth include professional esports tournament winnings totaling over $83,000 from 57 competitive events. His largest single prize came from the PMCO Fall 2019 South Asia Championship, where he secured $12,000 for first place.
YouTube monetization forms another major income source. With over 7 million subscribers and 711 million video views, his channel generates estimated monthly earnings between ₹1.14 lakh and ₹18.44 lakh through advertisements, super chats, and video sponsorships. Live stream donations frequently exceed ₹50,000 per session as viewers pay premium amounts to highlight messages during broadcasts.
Brand endorsements significantly boost his annual income. Jonathan commands ₹9-10 lakh per sponsored collaboration, working with major brands including Red Bull, FanClash, Hero MotoCorp, Realme, Samsung, IQOO, and AMD. As an official Red Bull athlete since November 2023, he enjoys additional sponsorship benefits beyond standard endorsement deals.
His estimated monthly income reaches ₹7-8 lakh, making him the highest-paid BGMI esports player in India. Industry projections suggest Jonathan aims to increase his net worth to $4-5 million by the end of 2026 through expanded content creation and strategic brand partnerships.
Age and Early Life Journey
Jonathan Jude Amaral was born on September 21, 2002, in Verna, Goa, India, making him currently 23 years old. He grew up in a Christian family that initially had mixed reactions to his gaming aspirations.
His father, Jude Amaral, a businessman, became his earliest supporter by gifting him an iPhone specifically for gaming purposes. This encouragement proved crucial during Jonathan’s formative years when he faced criticism from those dismissing mobile esports as a legitimate career path.
His mother, Leticia Amaral, initially opposed his gaming pursuits but eventually transformed into one of his strongest supporters, carefully monitoring his tournament results and celebrating his achievements. His elder sister has maintained a quieter but consistent support role throughout his career.
The family relocated from Goa to Mumbai to better support Jonathan’s professional gaming career. In 2023, he purchased a luxury apartment in Bandra, Mumbai worth ₹7.5 crore, offering panoramic city views and proximity to his team’s training facilities.
Girlfriend Status: Currently Single
Jonathan Gaming has not revealed any girlfriend publicly and maintains his relationship status as single as of 2026. The professional gamer keeps his personal romantic life extremely private, focusing public attention on his gaming career and content creation.
Despite intense fan curiosity about his dating life, Jonathan consistently avoids discussing romantic relationships in interviews, streams, or social media posts. His Instagram account with over 3.2 million followers primarily features gaming content, car posts, and professional achievements rather than personal relationship updates.
This privacy approach allows Jonathan to maintain clear boundaries between his public persona as India’s top BGMI player and his private personal life, a strategy that has helped him avoid unnecessary controversies throughout his career.
Luxury Car Collection Worth Crores
Jonathan Gaming car collection showcases his passion for high-performance vehicles and represents tangible success from his gaming career. His garage currently houses three premium automobiles with combined worth exceeding ₹9 crore.
The crown jewel is his Lamborghini Huracan, valued at approximately ₹3.5-5 crore, which he purchased from Fuzion Cars Delhi in November 2024. The Italian supercar features a custom color scheme reflecting his personality and gaming brand. He unveiled the Lamborghini at a grand ceremony held at a cricket stadium, sharing the moment with family and fans through an elaborate YouTube video.
His BMW 330i, worth approximately ₹75 lakh, was actually purchased as a gift for his father before Jonathan bought his own luxury vehicles. The sedan features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 258 horsepower and 400 Nm torque, capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds with a top speed of 250 km/h. The BMW includes adaptive suspension and BMW Live Cockpit Professional technology.
The Ford Mustang GT, valued at ₹74.61 lakh, represents his first supercar purchase. This American muscle car delivers 396 bhp at 6500 rpm and 515 Nm torque at 4250 rpm through a 5.0-liter V8 engine. The rear-wheel drive configuration with automatic six-speed transmission and paddle shifters provides thrilling performance that Jonathan frequently showcases in social media content.
BGMI ID and In-Game Statistics
Jonathan Gaming BGMI ID is 5112616229, with his in-game name displaying as “GxdLJONATHAN03.” His account features an extensive collection of premium supercars, exclusive outfits, rare weapon skins, and other sought-after in-game items accumulated through expensive crate openings during live streams.
His current season statistics demonstrate why he’s considered India’s best BGMI player. Jonathan maintains an overall rating of 85.7 (SS Grade), the highest tier classification available. His F/D ratio (formerly KD ratio) stands at an impressive 9.15, meaning he averages more than nine finishes for every defeat.
Throughout the current competitive season, Jonathan has competed in 142 matches, securing 16 victories with a win percentage of 11.3%. He reached top 10 placements in 81 matches, showcasing consistent performance across extended tournament play. His headshot accuracy regularly exceeds 30%, demonstrating exceptional aim precision.
Average damage statistics reveal Jonathan typically deals 800-1000 damage per match, with peak performances reaching over 4000 damage in single games. His average survival time of 17.9 minutes indicates strong positioning and game sense that keeps him alive deeper into matches.
Jonathan regularly achieves Conqueror tier, the highest rank in BGMI, often finishing seasons within the top rankings. His competitive statistics fluctuate slightly depending on whether he’s playing ranked matches, scrims, or official tournament games, but his performance remains elite across all formats.
Playing Style and Signature Techniques
Jonathan Gaming plays as the primary assaulter for GodLike Esports, with his role simply described as eliminating any visible opponent. His aggressive playstyle combined with tactical intelligence makes him one of the most feared players in competitive BGMI.
He utilizes a two-finger thumb control setup, making his achievements even more impressive given many top players use more complex claw techniques. His control code 7238-4338-0842-0180-522 has been shared for fans attempting to replicate his settings.
Gyroscope mastery represents Jonathan’s most distinctive skill. His precise gyroscope-based aim control makes him nearly unbeatable in close and mid-range engagements. The signature M416 with 6x scope laser sprays have become legendary, with aspiring players worldwide attempting to imitate his technique.
His spray control remains exceptional across multiple weapons, particularly the M416 and DP-28, where his recoil management allows sustained accurate fire at ranges where most players struggle. This technical proficiency translates to clutch performances where Jonathan regularly defeats entire squads in 1v3 or 1v4 scenarios.
Game sense and tactical decision-making separate Jonathan from mechanically skilled players. His ability to read match flow, predict enemy movements, and make split-second positioning choices allows him to survive and thrive in high-pressure tournament situations.
Tournament Achievements and Accolades
Jonathan Gaming’s competitive resume includes victories across multiple major tournaments. He began his professional career with Entity Gaming in 2019, where coach Ghatak recognized his potential and recruited him to the team.
His first major championship came at PMCO Fall 2019 with Entity Gaming, securing $60,000 in prize money. When Entity partnered with TSM to form TSM Entity in 2020, Jonathan continued his winning streak with a $26,404 victory at PMWL East 2020, where he finished sixth overall while serving as one of the tournament’s top fraggers.
During competitive play, Jonathan set a world record by achieving 16 solo kills in a single match during PMIS semifinals, a milestone that highlighted his individual skill ceiling. This performance cemented his reputation as capable of single-handedly dominating professional matches.
After joining GodLike Esports in 2021, Jonathan secured victories at Skyesports Championship 3.0 ($16,321), LOCO War of Glory Grand Finals ($26,692), and OneShot Showdown Season 2 Grand Finals ($18,674). He represented India at the PUBG Mobile Global Championship 2021, competing against the world’s best teams.
In January 2026, Jonathan swept the inaugural Krafton India Awards 2025, winning three prestigious titles including Influencer of the Year, Fans’ Choice: Favourite Creator of the Year (Male), and Fans’ Choice: Favourite Esports Player of the Year. These awards recognize both his competitive excellence and content creation impact.
He has earned MVP honors at multiple tournaments including BGMI Masters Series, BGIS 2025 Finals, Skyesports Championship 3.0, and Upthrust Esports. His consistent top fragger performances and clutch plays have earned him recognition as one of the most valuable players in Indian esports.
YouTube Success and Content Creation
Beyond competitive gaming, Jonathan has built substantial success as a content creator. His YouTube channel launched in February 2018 has grown to over 7.3 million subscribers with 504 uploaded videos generating 711 million total views.
His content mix includes BGMI gameplay footage, tournament highlights, sensitivity tutorials, expensive crate opening sessions, and lifestyle vlogs featuring his luxury cars and personal life. This variety appeals to both hardcore esports fans and casual viewers interested in gaming culture.
Monthly YouTube earnings range from $7,000 to $22,000 according to industry estimates, translating to annual revenues between $10,200 and $162,500. Super chat donations during live streams add substantial additional income, with viewers regularly paying premium amounts for shoutouts and personal interactions.
Social Blade analytics show Jonathan’s channel consistently gains 30,000+ new subscribers monthly with video views exceeding 5.2 million during the same period. These growth metrics reflect sustained audience interest and strong engagement rates across his content library.
His Instagram presence with 3.2 million followers provides another platform for brand collaborations and fan engagement, where he shares gaming updates, car content, and sponsored posts from his endorsement partners.
Current Team and Training Regimen
Jonathan currently plays for GodLike Esports, one of India’s most successful BGMI organizations. He joined the team in August 2021 after TSM Entity released its roster, and has remained with GodLike throughout his peak competitive years.
His daily gaming schedule demonstrates extreme dedication to professional improvement. Jonathan begins training around 2:30 AM and continues until 7:30 AM, completing 6-7 matches plus in-game drills during this intensive morning session. He streams for 10-12 hours on working days, balancing competitive practice with content creation.
The team maintains a boot camp facility in Mumbai where players refine strategies, review match footage, and prepare for upcoming tournaments. This professional infrastructure supports Jonathan’s continued development and helps GodLike Esports maintain competitive excellence.
As the primary assaulter, Jonathan’s teammates rely on his fragging ability to create space and apply pressure during matches. His aggressive playstyle sets the tempo for how GodLike Esports approaches each game, making him the focal point of their tactical system.
Impact on Indian Gaming Industry
Jonathan Gaming’s success story has significantly influenced perceptions of esports as a viable career path in India. His luxury purchases, particularly the Lamborghini, demonstrate the financial potential available to elite gaming professionals, inspiring younger players to pursue competitive gaming seriously.
His achievement of becoming the first esports player invited to a phone launch party reflects his mainstream recognition beyond gaming circles. Brand partnerships with companies like Red Bull, Realme, and Hero MotoCorp showcase how esports athletes now command marketing value comparable to traditional sports celebrities.
The estimated net worth of ₹23 crore at age 23 provides concrete evidence that professional gaming can generate wealth rivaling conventional career paths, helping shift parental and societal attitudes toward gaming as legitimate profession rather than mere entertainment.
Jonathan’s journey from Goa to becoming India’s highest-paid BGMI player exemplifies the opportunities created by India’s growing esports ecosystem, where talent, dedication, and consistent performance translate to significant financial success and celebrity status.
On Thursday, Embark unveiled a new teaser offering the first look at the highly anticipated map condition set to arrive in Arc Raiders next week, the Shrouded Sky.
While the finer details of what the new mode will look like remain shrouded (no pun intended) in mystery for the time being, the latest teaser offers a glimpse at what Shrouded Sky will bring to the extraction shooter.
Arc Raiders Shrouded Sky Teaser
The new Arc Raiders Shrouded Sky teaser was revealed by Embark via the official YouTube handle of the game.
The teaser opens by showing an intense storm brewing topside across the different maps. We also see a Raider trying to make his way through the tempest, but his shields are visibly affected by the harsh conditions.
Later, we see someone trying to contact Celeste, but is unable to do so due to the signal interference caused by the storm.
“Rise above the storm, or get swept away,” the video description reads.
Lastly, the teaser once again confirms the release date for the Shrouded Sky update, which is scheduled to arrive on February 24, 2026.
Keep following TalkEsport for the detailed patch notes of the Shrouded Sky update once it is revealed by Embark.
Voice actor Ben Starr has officially confirmed that he is joining Fortnite as the voice of The Visitor. The announcement makes Starr the latest high-profile talent to lend his voice to one of the game’s most important original characters.
Starr shared the news on his social media, expressing his enthusiasm for the role. He confirmed that he will be voicing The Visitor, one of the returning members of The Seven, a central group in Fortnite’s ongoing storyline.
Who Is Ben Starr?
Ben Starr is a well-known voice actor in the gaming industry. He is best recognized for his work as Clive Rosfield in Final Fantasy 16, a performance that earned him widespread acclaim. He has also lent his voice to Hades 2 and played the role of Verso in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
His addition to the Fortnite cast adds another major gaming franchise to his growing resume.
The Seven Are Returning to Fortnite
The Visitor’s return is part of a larger event bringing The Seven back into the Fortnite storyline. The Seven are a group of original Fortnite characters who have played a major role across multiple chapters of the game’s narrative.
I’m joining Fortnite as The Visitor.
I’m so excited to bring back this iconic member of The Seven. I imagine I’ll be very normal about it. pic.twitter.com/cUNBkr2gWG
One member of the group, The Order, already made her return to the game as part of an update in January 2026. Now, The Visitor is confirmed as the next member of The Seven to come back, this time with Ben Starr providing the voice.
What Ben Starr Said About the Role
In his social media post announcing the role, Starr did not hold back his excitement. He wrote that he is thrilled to bring back such an iconic member of The Seven, adding a lighthearted comment about how he expects to be “very normal about it.”
The tone of the message suggests a genuine connection to the Fortnite community and a clear understanding of the character’s significance within the game’s lore.
Why This Casting Matters for Fortnite Fans
The Visitor is one of the most recognizable characters in Fortnite’s original storyline. Having a voice actor with the caliber of Ben Starr attached to the role signals that Epic Games is investing in strong performances for its narrative content.
With The Seven’s return set for February 23, 2026, players can expect more story-driven updates in the coming days. Fans of Fortnite’s lore and competitive players alike will be watching to see how The Visitor fits into the current chapter of the game.
Poppy Playtime Chapter 5 has finally arrived, and it delivers some of the most shocking moments in the series so far. Two of the franchise’s most beloved characters, Huggy Wuggy and Kissy Missy, face brutal attacks from the Prototype during the final act of the chapter. But did they actually die? Here is everything we know about their fates based on what happens in the game.
What Happens to Huggy Wuggy and Kissy Missy in Chapter 5?
Throughout Poppy Playtime Chapter 5, Huggy Wuggy and Kissy Missy play very different roles. Huggy Wuggy continues to act as a threat, stalking the player through the factory halls. Kissy Missy, on the other hand, remains a loyal ally who works alongside the protagonist.
Their stories converge during a late-game encounter where Kissy Missy steps in to save the player from Huggy Wuggy. She manages to calm him down during their long-awaited reunion. However, this moment of peace is cut short when the Prototype ambushes them both from behind.
Does Huggy Wuggy Die in Poppy Playtime Chapter 5?
The Prototype attacks Huggy Wuggy by stabbing him and slamming him into a wall. It is a violent and sudden assault that appears fatal at first glance. However, Mob Entertainment has left the answer deliberately unclear.
After the attack, Huggy Wuggy is still visibly moving. He lifts his head to look at the Prototype as it prepares another strike. Before anything else can happen, the player is forced to flee the scene. That is the last time Huggy Wuggy is seen in Chapter 5.
Given how important Huggy Wuggy is to the Poppy Playtime franchise, it seems unlikely that the developers would kill him off-screen. He is the face of the series, much like Freddy Fazbear is in Five Nights at Freddy’s. Huggy also survived a massive fall in an earlier chapter, which proves he is far more durable than a normal being. His fate remains open for now.
Does Kissy Missy Die in Poppy Playtime Chapter 5?
Kissy Missy suffers a similar attack from the Prototype shortly after Huggy Wuggy is struck down. The Prototype drives its claws into her body in a brutal impalement. She is last seen lying face down after the assault, which strongly suggests she could be dead.
However, there is a small hint that she may have survived. After the player escapes, a character named Giblet rescues them. Giblet explains that Poppy has been taken by the Prototype and admits that he does not know what happened to Kissy Missy. The fact that her fate is mentioned but never confirmed keeps the outcome uncertain and leaves the door open for a possible return.
Could Huggy Wuggy or Kissy Missy Return in Chapter 6?
Neither character receives a confirmed death in Poppy Playtime Chapter 5. There is no post-credit scene or secret ending that confirms whether they survived or died. The game presents their injuries as severe, but the deliberate ambiguity from Mob Entertainment suggests that at least one of them could come back in a future chapter.
The Poppy Playtime series has a history of dramatic returns and fake-outs. Huggy Wuggy himself already came back after a seemingly fatal fall in an earlier chapter. Removing both characters at once would be a bold creative decision, but nothing in Chapter 5 rules out their survival for good.
For now, players are left to wait for Poppy Playtime Chapter 6 to learn the truth. The focus of the story shifts toward the Prototype’s weakness and the fate of Poppy herself, but the question of the Wuggys is one that fans will keep asking until the developers provide a clear answer.
What Is the Prototype in Poppy Playtime Chapter 5?
The Prototype is the main villain responsible for attacking both Huggy Wuggy and Kissy Missy. Chapter 5 reveals that the Prototype is actually Experiment 1006. Its human identity is Oliver Ludwig, the son of Elliot Ludwig and the brother of Poppy Ludwig, who inspired the Poppy Playtime dolls.
The Prototype appears as a towering mechanical-organic creature with a cracked porcelain jester face, a glowing core, and long skeletal arms ending in sharp, needle-like fingers. It upgrades itself by scavenging parts from other toys, including the arms of Mommy Long Legs, Kissy Missy, and Huggy Wuggy, along with components taken from CatNap.
Resident Evil Requiem launches on February 27, 2026, and it marks the return of Leon Kennedy in his first new mainline appearance since Resident Evil 6. Alongside new protagonist Grace Ashcroft, players will head back to the ruins of Raccoon City for a mix of combat, puzzles, and survival horror. If you want to know exactly when you can start playing, here is everything we know about the Resident Evil Requiem release date and launch times across all time zones.
Resident Evil Requiem Release Date
Capcom has confirmed that Resident Evil Requiem will release on February 27, 2026. The game is the ninth mainline entry in the Resident Evil series and has been one of the most anticipated horror games on the calendar ever since it was first announced at Summer Game Fest 2025.
The game is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store. All four platforms share the same February 27 launch date.
According to the PlayStation Store listing, Resident Evil Requiem is expected to launch at 9 PM PT on February 26, which translates to a midnight ET release on February 27. This follows the standard pattern for major console releases, where games unlock at midnight Eastern Time across the United States.
It is important to note that Capcom has not officially published a release time sheet for Resident Evil Requiem at the time of writing. The PlayStation Store often provides an early indication of launch times, but these listings are not always final and could change before launch day.
If Capcom releases an official time sheet closer to launch, this article will be updated to reflect that information.
Resident Evil Requiem Release Times by Time Zone
Based on the PlayStation Store listing, here are the expected launch times for Resident Evil Requiem across major time zones. Console players can expect a regional midnight rollout, while PC players on Steam and Epic Games Store may see a synchronized global unlock.
9:00 PM PT on February 26 (West Coast US)
12:00 AM ET on February 27 (East Coast US)
5:00 AM GMT on February 27 (United Kingdom)
6:00 AM CET on February 27 (Central Europe)
10:30 AM IST on February 27 (India)
2:00 PM JST on February 27 (Japan)
4:00 PM AEDT on February 27 (Australia)
These times are based on the 9 PM PT listing from the PlayStation Store and may be adjusted once Capcom issues official confirmation.
Resident Evil Requiem Platforms: PS5, Xbox, Switch 2, and PC
Resident Evil Requiem is launching on all current-generation platforms on the same day. Here is the full list of supported platforms for RE9.
The game is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC through both Steam and the Epic Games Store. There are no last-generation versions planned for PS4 or Xbox One.
The Nintendo Switch 2 version launching alongside the other platforms on day one is notable, as it is not common for third-party titles of this scale to release simultaneously on the Switch platform.
Is There Early Access for Resident Evil Requiem?
No, there is no early access available for Resident Evil Requiem. Capcom has not offered any special edition or promotion that grants players access before the official February 27 launch date. No edition of the game, including the Deluxe Edition, includes early access.
However, physical copies of the game have reportedly had their street date broken by nearly two weeks. Some players may have already received and played the game ahead of its official digital launch. If you see gameplay or spoilers circulating online before February 27, this is likely the reason.
Is There a Resident Evil Requiem Demo?
There is currently no demo available for Resident Evil Requiem. This could make it one of the first mainline Resident Evil titles in recent years to launch without offering a playable demo ahead of release.
Previous entries like Resident Evil 7: Biohazard featured a standalone demo called Beginning Hour, which gave players a hands-on preview of the game before launch. No similar offering has been announced for Resident Evil Requiem.
Resident Evil Requiem Pre-Order Bonus
Players who pre-order Resident Evil Requiem before February 27 will receive the Apocalypse costume for Grace Ashcroft as a bonus. This is the only pre-order bonus item and is included with both the Standard Edition and the Deluxe Edition of the game.
The Standard Edition is priced at $69.99. The Deluxe Edition includes the base game along with additional cosmetic items in a Deluxe Kit.
Resident Evil Requiem Review Embargo Date
For players who want to check reviews before buying, the Resident Evil Requiem review embargo is expected to lift on February 25, 2026, at 7 AM PT. This means reviews will go live two full days before the game officially launches, giving players time to make an informed purchase decision.
What Is Resident Evil Requiem About?
Resident Evil Requiem is set approximately 30 years after the destruction of Raccoon City. The game features two playable protagonists with different gameplay styles.
Grace Ashcroft is a new character and an FBI analyst who is investigating a series of mysterious deaths at the condemned Wrenwood Hotel. This location has a personal connection to Grace, as it is the same site where her mother, Alyssa Ashcroft from Resident Evil Outbreak, was murdered eight years earlier. Grace’s gameplay sections focus on survival horror, stealth, and puzzle-solving with limited resources.
Leon Kennedy returns as a DSO field agent on a mission to track down Victor Gideon, a scientist with ties to the original Umbrella Corporation. Leon’s sections are more action-oriented, similar to Resident Evil 4. Players can switch between first-person and third-person camera perspectives at any time during gameplay.
Resident Evil Requiem Preload Date
Players who have pre-ordered the game digitally can preload Resident Evil Requiem starting February 25, 2026. This gives a two-day head start on downloading the game before the official launch. The download size is reported to be approximately 73 GB, so preloading is recommended for players with slower internet connections.
iQOO S8UL have been crowned champions of the Rai Star x Gyan Gaming Cup, one of the biggest MOBA Legends 5v5 tournaments ever held in India. The grand final took place in Kolkata on February 18, 2026, and saw S8UL Esports take down Godlike Esports in a tightly contested Best-of-Seven series that ended 4-3. The victory earned the team INR 12.5 lakh in total prize money.
What Is the Rai Star x Gyan Gaming Cup?
The Rai Star x Gyan Gaming Cup is a MOBA Legends 5v5 tournament that ran for an entire month before reaching its conclusion in Kolkata. The event featured open qualifiers that attracted 1,024 teams from across India, making it one of the largest MOBA tournaments the country has seen to date.
The open qualifiers used a single-elimination format with Best-of-One (Bo1) matches. Only 16 teams survived to reach the main event brackets, where the competition shifted to longer series formats with higher stakes.
The iQOO S8UL roster is the MOBA Legends 5v5 division of S8UL Esports, a well-known Indian esports and gaming content organization. The team that competed at the Rai Star x Gyan Gaming Cup consisted of six players.
Mohammad Saad, who goes by the in-game name Apex, served as the team’s in-game leader (IGL). The rest of the roster included Abhijeet Katkar (Abhi), Mehta Jay (J), Chirag Singh (Radium), Debasish Sana (Anti), and Joseph Nehhunjang (Kakarot).
Apex has international experience as well. He previously competed at the MLBB Mid Season Cup 2024, which was held as part of the Esports World Cup and featured a USD 3 million prize pool.
How iQOO S8UL Reached the Grand Final
iQOO S8UL qualified through the open bracket and entered the Group A playoffs as one of the top 16 teams in the tournament. Their path through the main event brackets was clinical and showed steady improvement as the series formats grew longer.
In the quarterfinals, iQOO S8UL defeated Megatron Esports with a clean 2-0 scoreline in a Best-of-Three series. The semifinals saw them face PEAK, where they secured a 3-1 win in a Best-of-Five matchup. The Group A finals against Elusivity Esports was the most one-sided result of their run, as iQOO S8UL swept the series 4-0 in a Best-of-Seven format to book their place in the grand final.
Grand Final Recap: iQOO S8UL vs Godlike Esports
The grand final was the closest series iQOO S8UL played throughout the entire tournament. Unlike their earlier dominant performances, this Best-of-Seven decider against Godlike Esports went the distance and ended 4-3 in favor of iQOO S8UL.
Both teams traded maps back and forth in what turned out to be a fiercely competitive series. iQOO S8UL maintained their composure in the final maps to close out the match and secure the championship title.
iQOO S8UL Rai Star x Gyan Gaming Cup Tournament Results at a Glance
Here is a quick summary of iQOO S8UL’s full tournament run from open qualifiers to the grand final.
