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EA Servers Down: EA FC 26 and Ultimate Team Hit by “Unable to Connect” Errors

Yash More
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EA Servers Down: EA FC 26 and Ultimate Team Hit by “Unable to Connect” Errors

EA FC 26 players are facing widespread server issues today, with thousands unable to access Ultimate Team and other online modes. Reports of “Unable to Connect to EA Servers” and “Connecting to Ultimate Team is not possible at the moment” errors have surged across multiple platforms, leaving the community frustrated and searching for answers.

What Is Happening With EA FC 26 Servers Right Now?

Starting on the evening of February 18, 2026, EA Sports FC 26 players began reporting that they could not log into Ultimate Team. Players on both Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) confirmed that the problem was not limited to a single region. Instead, multiple reports describe the outage as affecting users across the world.

When trying to access Ultimate Team, players see an error message stating that connecting to Ultimate Team is not possible and that they will be returned to the main menu. Others receive a more general “Unable to Connect to EA Servers” notification that prompts them to check their internet connection.

The issue also extends beyond Ultimate Team. Players trying to access Pro Clubs reported the same login failures on the EA Forums, with one user posting on February 18 that they had been unable to play for over an hour.

Players Report Mid-Match Disconnections and Lost Progress

One of the biggest frustrations for the EA FC 26 community is that the server problems are not just blocking login attempts. Several players on the r/EAFC and r/fut subreddits confirmed they were disconnected in the middle of active matches.

Some of these players were leading their games at the time and expressed concern that the disconnection would count as a loss on their record. For those grinding Division Rivals points or working through time-limited objectives, the timing of the outage was particularly painful. Multiple users on Reddit asked EA for extensions on timed objectives or compensation for lost progress.

On the EA Forums, similar complaints appeared. Players described being kicked from online matches and losing coins or rewards they had earned during their sessions.

EA Official Server Status Page Shows No Outage

Despite the volume of player reports, EA’s official server status page at help.ea.com does not currently indicate any ongoing outages or maintenance for EA FC 26. This mismatch between the official status and the actual player experience has added to the frustration.

EA’s official server status page tracks the health of online services across all EA titles and platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. When the page shows services as online while players clearly cannot connect, the issue may involve server-side problems that have not yet been formally acknowledged.

The EA SPORTS FC Direct Communication account on X is the primary channel where EA typically posts real-time updates about server outages, scheduled maintenance, and expected resolution times. As of this writing, no official update has been posted regarding the current disruption.

How to Check if EA FC 26 Servers Are Down

If you are experiencing connection errors in EA FC 26, there are several ways to verify whether the problem is on EA’s side or with your local network.

The first step is to visit EA’s official server status page. If the page shows any services as “Limited” or “Down” for your platform, the issue is confirmed on EA’s end.

You can also follow the EA SPORTS FC Direct Communication account on X for real-time announcements. EA typically posts when servers are taken offline for scheduled maintenance and provides estimated time windows for when services will be restored.

Third-party outage tracking sites like DownDetector can also provide useful data. These platforms aggregate user reports and display spikes in real time, which can confirm a widespread outage even before EA issues an official statement.

Finally, checking community forums on Reddit (r/EAFC and r/fut) and the EA Forums can help you gauge whether other players in your region are experiencing the same problem.

What to Do When You Cannot Connect to EA FC 26

When the issue is a server-side outage, there is unfortunately no troubleshooting step on your end that will fix the problem. You simply need to wait until EA restores the service.

However, if the servers appear to be online and you are the only one experiencing issues, there are a few steps worth trying. Restarting your console, PC, or mobile device and relaunching the game can resolve temporary glitches. Using a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi can also improve stability.

Checking for game updates on Steam, the EA App, or your console’s store is another important step. Outdated game versions can sometimes block access to online services. You should also ensure your firewall or antivirus software is not blocking EA FC 26 from connecting to the internet.

Clearing your console or PC cache and signing out and back into your EA account are additional steps that can sometimes resolve persistent connection problems. EA also provides a detailed troubleshooting guide for diagnosing connection issues across all platforms.

Recent EA FC 26 Server Outage History

This is not the first time EA FC 26 players have dealt with server disruptions in recent weeks. On February 11, 2026, EA servers experienced a roughly 42-minute outage that primarily affected server connections and game launches. Earlier in the month, on February 4, a more significant disruption lasted approximately three hours and impacted players globally.

In November 2025, EA conducted a large scheduled maintenance window lasting about seven hours. That maintenance affected EA FC 26, EA FC 25, and EA FC 24, taking all online modes offline including Ultimate Team, Clubs, and the transfer market. EA announced that maintenance in advance through its Direct Communication account on X.

EA typically performs scheduled server maintenance during off-peak hours, and these sessions usually last between one and three hours depending on the scope of the update.

What Modes Are Affected When EA Servers Go Down?

When EA servers go offline, all online modes in EA FC 26 are affected. This includes Ultimate Team, Online Seasons, Clubs (Pro Clubs), and the transfer market. Players cannot open packs, complete Squad Building Challenges, or participate in any online match during a server outage.

Offline modes such as Kick-Off, Career Mode, and Tournament Mode remain fully playable even when EA servers are down. If you find yourself unable to connect, switching to one of these modes is the best way to continue playing while waiting for services to be restored.

It is also worth noting that EA FC 26 servers are separated by platform. PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and Nintendo Switch each have independent server infrastructure. This means that servers may be online on one platform while down on another.

Will EA Compensate Players for Lost Progress?

EA has not yet made any statement regarding compensation for the current outage. In the past, EA Support has occasionally issued compensation when widespread outages caused significant disruption, but this is handled on a case-by-case basis.

Players who lost match progress or were disconnected during competitive modes like Division Rivals or FUT Champions should monitor EA’s official channels for any announcements. Submitting a support ticket through EA Help is also an option, though results may vary.

If you have been encountering the EA account servers unavailable error on the FC 26 Web App, the current server instability may be a contributing factor. Players waiting for the outage to resolve can also catch up on the latest EA FC 26 gameplay updates and patch notes to prepare for when services are restored.

UK Regulator Bans Call of Duty Black Ops 7 Airport Security Commercial

Satyam Kumar
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UK Regulator Bans Call of Duty Black Ops 7 Airport Security Commercial

A Call of Duty Black Ops 7 television advertisement has been prohibited from airing in the United Kingdom following a ruling by the country’s advertising watchdog. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) determined that the commercial trivialized sexual violence, marking a significant regulatory action against one of gaming’s biggest franchises.

The Replacer Commercial Draws Complaints

The advertisement in question, titled “The Replacer: Airport Security,” first appeared on YouTube in November 2025. Activision subsequently ran the commercial on two major UK television networks, ITV and Channel 5, to promote the latest installment in the Call of Duty series.

According to the official ASA ruling, nine individuals filed complaints about the advertisement. These complainants argued that the commercial made sexual violence appear trivial and questioned whether the content was both irresponsible and offensive to viewers.

The commercial features a comedic premise where regular airport security staff have been replaced by incompetent substitutes because the actual employees are playing Call of Duty Black Ops 7. The advertisement follows a passenger through airport security screening procedures.

What the Advertisement Depicted

In the commercial, a man wearing a blue shirt passes through a metal detector at an airport security checkpoint. After triggering the detector, security staff confiscate his watch. The male security officer then informs the passenger that he has been “randomly selected to be manhandled” and instructs him to “face the wall.”

A female security officer subsequently pulls on a pair of gloves and announces, “Time for the puppet show.” In another scene from the advertisement, the male officer presses a handheld metal detector against the man’s mouth while saying, “Bite down on this, she’s going in dry.”

The commercial presents these interactions as part of its comedic approach, with the incompetent replacement staff creating absurd situations throughout the screening process.

ASA Makes Formal Ruling

The Advertising Standards Authority acknowledged in its decision that viewers would likely interpret the advertisement as exaggerated comedy. The regulator also noted that the commercial did not show any explicit content or actual acts of violence.

However, the ASA concluded that the humor in the advertisement relied fundamentally on depicting the humiliation of the passenger and creating an implied threat of a painful, non-consensual penetration. This reliance on such themes led the regulatory body to determine that the commercial trivialized sexual violence.

The ruling prohibits the advertisement from being broadcast on UK television networks going forward. The decision applies specifically to the Airport Security version of The Replacer advertising campaign.

Activision Blizzard Defends Advertisement

Activision Blizzard contested the complaints and defended the commercial in its response to the ASA. The company argued that the advertisement targeted an adult audience and maintained that it contained no sexual innuendo or depictions of violence.

The publisher specifically addressed the “bite down” dialogue, stating that this line referred to physical discomfort rather than any sexual act. Activision emphasized that the passenger remained fully clothed throughout the commercial and that all scenes took place in a public airport security checkpoint setting.

The company further explained its creative intent, characterizing The Replacer characters as absurd caricatures. According to Activision, the comedy stemmed from the incompetence of these replacement workers rather than from any behavior viewers should emulate or find acceptable in real-world situations.

Despite these defenses, the ASA upheld the ban on the advertisement. The regulatory decision means Activision cannot air this specific commercial on UK television, though the ruling does not appear to affect other Call of Duty marketing materials.

Impact on Call of Duty Marketing

This marks a notable instance of regulatory intervention in video game advertising in the United Kingdom. Call of Duty remains one of the most heavily marketed gaming franchises worldwide, with Activision investing significantly in television, digital, and outdoor advertising campaigns.

The Replacer character has appeared in multiple Call of Duty commercials over the years, typically featuring actor taking the place of people in various scenarios so they can play the latest game. This particular execution faced scrutiny due to the specific context and dialogue used in the airport security setting.

The ban applies only to broadcast television in the UK. The commercial remains available on digital platforms such as YouTube, where content regulations differ from broadcast television standards. Activision has not indicated whether it plans to modify the advertisement or appeal the ASA decision.

Gaming industry observers note that this ruling may influence how publishers approach comedy in future gaming advertisements, particularly when depicting scenarios involving physical interactions or authority figures.

Genshin Impact Codes February 2026: All Active Redemption Codes for Free Primogems

Yash More
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Genshin Impact Codes February 2026: All Active Redemption Codes for Free Primogems

Players looking for free Primogems and in-game items can use Genshin Impact redemption codes to claim various rewards without spending money. This guide provides all currently active codes and explains how to redeem them properly.

Active Genshin Impact Codes for Version 6.4

The game regularly releases new codes through special programs and events. Below are the codes currently available for redemption.

Version Luna V Special Programme Codes

The Version Luna V Special Programme aired on February 13, 2026, at 07:00 AM UTC-5. Three redemption codes were released during the broadcast, offering a combined total of 300 Primogems.

  • Homeward – This code provides 100 Primogems and 10 Mystic Enhancement Ore.
  • VarkaArrives – Redeem this code for 100 Primogems and 5 Hero’s Wit.
  • VisitWonderland – This code grants 100 Primogems and 50,000 Mora.

Version Luna IV Active Codes

Several codes from the previous version remain valid for redemption.

  • 8X73KH58KDHN Rewards: 60 Primogems and 5 Adventurer’s Experience
  • JTSHBHPPKUSV Rewards: 20 Primogems and 160 Geode of Replication
  • HUEK357YFYN3 Rewards: 10,000 Mora, 10 Adventurer’s Experience, 2 Fine Enhancement Ore, 5 Stir-Fried Fish Noodles, and 2 Jueyun Chili Chicken
  • TSUKINOARIKAE Rewards: 5 Moonfall Silver, 20,000 Mora, 2 Hero’s Wit, and 2 Mystic Enhancement Ore
  • GENSHINGIFT This permanent code provides 50 Primogems and 3 Hero’s Wit. Unlike other codes, this one does not expire.

Requirements for Code Redemption

Players must reach Adventure Rank 10 before they can redeem codes in Genshin Impact. Players can increase their Adventure Rank by opening chests and completing quests throughout the game world.

How to Redeem Codes In-Game

The in-game redemption method involves four steps.

  • Step 1: Log into your account and open the Paimon menu located at the top left of the screen.
  • Step 2: Navigate to Settings and select the Account option from the menu on the left side.
  • Step 3: Locate the Redeem Now button and enter your code in the provided field.
  • Step 4: Check your in-game Mailbox to collect the rewards after successful redemption.

How to Redeem Codes via Official Website

Players can also redeem codes through the official Genshin Impact website.

  • Step 1: Visit the official code redemption page at genshin.hoyoverse.com/en/gift.
  • Step 2: Log into your account and verify your server selection.
  • Step 3: Enter the redemption code in the designated field.
  • Step 4: Retrieve your rewards from the in-game Mailbox after completing the process.

Free Methods to Earn Game Resources

Players who want to collect more materials and Primogems have several options available without using redemption codes.

Daily Commissions

Daily Commissions unlock when players reach Adventure Rank 12. Completing these daily tasks provides Primogems as rewards.

Quests and Events

Both story quests and limited-time events offer Primogems upon completion. Archon quests specifically provide additional Intertwined Fates as rewards.

Character Trials

The game allows players to test five-star characters featured on current banners. Completing these trials awards Primogems.

Exploration Rewards

Opening chests scattered throughout the game world grants Primogems. Players also earn Primogems by completing in-game achievements.

In-Game Mail

The developer frequently distributes free Primogems through the mail system. These gifts may serve as promotional items or compensation for maintenance periods and technical issues.

Currency Exchange

Players can use Starglitter and Stardust to purchase Intertwined Fate and Acquaint Fate from the in-game shop. These items allow players to make wishes on character and weapon banners.

Important Notes About Codes

Redemption codes typically expire after a limited time period. Players should redeem codes as soon as possible after they become available. The official redemption page allows direct code entry through clickable links that automatically fill in the code field.

All rewards from redeemed codes arrive in the in-game Mailbox. Players must claim these items from the mail system before they can use them. For players looking for additional ways to earn free Primogems beyond redemption codes, the complete guide on Genshin Impact redeem codes for April 2024 provides comprehensive methods including daily commissions, event participation, and exploration tips. HoYoverse regularly updates their redemption system and releases new codes through official livestreams and social media channels, making it essential for players to stay connected with the game’s official community platforms.

How to Unlock 120 FPS in BGMI: Check Supported Devices

Hoax
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How to Unlock 120 FPS in BGMI: Check Supported Devices

Running Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) at 120 FPS transforms competitive gameplay. The difference between 60fps and 120 FPS translates to roughly 8-15 milliseconds of reduced input lag, giving you faster reaction times in close-range fights and noticeably smoother recoil control during spray transfers. However, Krafton restricts this “Ultra Extreme” setting to specific flagship devices capable of sustained high-performance output. This guide covers exactly how to unlock 120 FPS in BGMI, the hardware prerequisites, and more.

Device Requirements for BGMI 120 FPS

Your device must meet three non-negotiable criteria for the Ultra Extreme option to appear: a 120Hz display refresh rate, a flagship-tier chipset, and official whitelist approval from Krafton.

Supported Chipsets

As of February 2026, the supported chipset range has expanded considerably across vendors. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 through Snapdragon 8 Elite family is now covered. This includes the Galaxy S22 Ultra through S26, OnePlus 11 through 15, iQOO 11 through 15, Xiaomi 13 Pro through 15 Ultra, ROG Phone 7 Ultimate through 9 Pro, Red Magic 9 Pro through 11 Pro, and the POCO F6/F7 Pro. The Dimensity 9200/9300/9400 series continues to be supported via select Xiaomi and POCO flagships. Google Tensor G3, G4, and G5 chips supports 120 fps as well, including Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL. On the Apple side, Apple A15 Bionic through A19 Pro (iPhone 13 Pro/Max through iPhone 17 Pro/Max) supoort the Ultra Extreme option. The Apple M1, M2, and M4 chips remain supported across iPad Pro models from 2020 onward, including the 11-inch (2021+) and 12.9-inch (2020+) lineups.

Display Requirements

Your phone must natively support 120Hz refresh rates. Simply having a powerful processor is insufficient. If your display maxes at 60Hz or 90Hz, the Ultra Extreme option will not appear regardless of other specifications. Gaming phones like the ASUS ROG Phone 8 and RedMagic 9 Pro offer 165Hz displays but are capped at 120 FPS in BGMI to maintain stability.

Supported Device List

Krafton maintains a whitelist of supported devices, expanded significantly across the 3.5 through 4.1 updates. However, this list is not public. Confirmed supported devices as of February 2026 include:

  • Samsung: Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy S25 series, Galaxy S26 Ultra; Galaxy Z Fold 5, Z Fold 6, Z Fold 7; Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, Galaxy Tab S10 series​
  • OnePlus: OnePlus 11 / 11R, OnePlus 12 / 12R, OnePlus 13, OnePlus 15, OnePlus Open​
  • iQOO: iQOO 11, iQOO 12, iQOO 13, iQOO 15, iQOO Neo 9 Pro, iQOO Neo 10 / 10R​
  • Xiaomi / POCO: Xiaomi 13 Pro, Xiaomi 14 Ultra, Xiaomi 15 Ultra, Xiaomi 15T Pro; POCO F6 Pro, POCO F7 Pro, POCO X7 Pro (select regions)​
  • Apple: iPhone 13 Pro/Pro Max through iPhone 17 Pro/Pro Max; iPad Pro M1, M2, and M4 models; iPad Pro 11-inch (2021+), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2020+)​
  • Gaming Phones: ASUS ROG Phone 7 Ultimate, ROG Phone 8 / 8 Pro, ROG Phone 9 Pro; Nubia Red Magic 9 Pro, Red Magic 10 Pro, Red Magic 11 Pro​
  • Others: Google Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL; Infinix GT 20 Pro (special BGMI optimization)​.

How to Enable 120 FPS in BGMI

If your device appears on the supported list but you do not see the Ultra Extreme frame rate option, follow these specific steps:

Step 1: Configure System Display Settings

Before opening BGMI, set your device refresh rate to 120Hz in system settings.

Step 2: Adjust In-Game Graphics

Open BGMI and navigate to Settings > Graphics & Audio. Under the Combat tab, set Graphics to “Smooth.” This is mandatory. 120 FPS is only available on the Smooth graphics preset to ensure the GPU can maintain frame times. Once Smooth is selected, the Frame Rate dropdown should display “Ultra Extreme.” Select it.

Unlock 120 FPS in BGMI

Step 3: Enable Performance Mode (Recommended. Not Mandatory)

Disable Battery Saver or Power Saving modes, which artificially limit CPU/GPU frequencies. Enable your device’s gaming mode for better performance.

Step 4: Restart the Game

Close BGMI completely from recent apps and relaunch. The game must reinitialize with new frame timing parameters. Upon re-entry, the 120 FPS mode should be active.

The Trade-off: Performance vs. Battery Life

Enabling 120 FPS noticeably increases power consumption compared to 60fps gameplay. The display alone draws approximately 20% more power at 120Hz versus 60Hz, and when accounting for the additional CPU/GPU load of rendering twice as many frames, total system power in gaming scenarios rises by an estimated 30–50%, meaning real-world battery life at 120 FPS is roughly 30–40% shorter than at 60fps, though exact figures vary by device, chipset efficiency, and graphics settings.

Thermal throttling on standard flagships typically begins within 15–25 minutes of sustained 120 FPS gameplay. Gaming phones with built-in active cooling, such as the ROG Phone and RedMagic series, handle sustained loads significantly better.

Also read: Mobile Gaming Optimization Guide Android: Zero Lag Settings for BGMI, Free Fire & COD Mobile

For competitive ranked pushes, 120 FPS provides measurable advantages in tracking moving targets and recoil stability. For casual sessions, 90fps offers a better balance of smoothness and battery preservation. If your device supports Ultra Extreme, use it during competitive matches but switch to lower frame rates for extended grinding sessions to prevent hardware degradation and excessive battery wear.

BGMI Wildsoul Warden Gilt Set Launches Soon with Upgradable M416 Skin

Divyesh Moghe
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BGMI Wildsoul Warden Gilt Set Launches Soon with Upgradable M416 Skin

KRAFTON India has announced the release of a new premium cosmetic collection for Battlegrounds Mobile India players. The Wildsoul Warden Gilt Set will become available on February 20, 2026, alongside a special M416 weapon skin that can be upgraded through multiple levels.

What is the Wildsoul Warden Gilt Set in BGMI?

The Wildsoul Warden Gilt Set is an Ultimate tier outfit in BGMI. The design takes inspiration from a forest deity theme and combines natural elements with supernatural visual effects. This outfit falls into the highest tier category for cosmetic items in the game.

Wildsoul Warden Gilt Set Features

The outfit includes several technical and visual components. The cape uses new physics technology that creates a flowing effect. This effect responds to character movement and wind conditions in the game environment.

The set has two distinct visual forms. The first form shows a primal protective appearance. The second form displays a vengeful fiery spirit mode. A soul aura effect appears constantly from the antler-fused helmet and the bottom part of the outfit. This aura shows soul flames as a visual element.

Crimson Skyblade M416 Skin Details

The Crimson Skyblade M416 is an upgradable weapon skin that releases with the collection. The skin has multiple upgrade levels, each adding new features.

M416 Upgrade Levels

At Level 1, the base form features a feral claw barrel design and burning jade embers as visual elements. The Level 4 upgrade adds an elimination broadcast feature. When players get eliminations, unique soul wisps and fiery vines appear in the kill feed.

Level 7 brings the final form of the weapon design. This version shows a fully ignited appearance with aggressive styling and intense flame effects. The Level 10 upgrade adds a Spirit Inspect animation. During this animation, a spectral wolf spirit circles around the weapon.

Additional Collection Items

The Wildsoul collection extends beyond the main outfit and M416 skin. Players can obtain a Lumina Aegis Glider, which is described as a high-fidelity glider option. A Honey Badger Skin is also part of the collection. This skin includes vine reload animations that match the nature theme.

The Loot Crate Contents

The collection includes a loot crate with exclusive items. The Rollo Backpack comes with vine straps that fit the overall theme. A grenade skin in the crate shows ethereal leaves when used. Custom emotes are available, including one called Wolf Howl.

Release Schedule and Availability

The Wildsoul Warden Gilt Set becomes available on February 20, 2026. The collection will remain available until March 26, 2026. Players have approximately five weeks to obtain items from this collection.

Pre-order events will take place in the game. These events allow players to secure 10-draw vouchers at reduced prices before the official launch date. The pre-order option provides a discount compared to regular pricing after the launch.

How to Get the Wildsoul Warden Gilt Set

KRAFTON has not specified the exact acquisition method. Based on typical BGMI cosmetic releases, players will likely need to use the lucky draw system or purchase items through the in-game store. The pre-order vouchers suggest a crate or spin system for obtaining the items.

Technical Requirements

The outfit uses advanced material technology in its design. The cape physics and dual-form visuals require rendering capabilities on mobile devices. Players with older devices may experience different visual quality levels for the effects.

Collection Value

The Wildsoul Warden Gilt Set represents a premium cosmetic option for BGMI players. Ultimate tier outfits typically rank among the highest quality items in the game. The upgradable M416 skin adds long-term value as players progress through its 10 levels.

The collection runs for approximately five weeks from launch to end date. Players interested in nature-themed cosmetics or upgradable weapon skins may find this collection relevant to their preferences. Those looking to maximize their cosmetic collection can also check out the guide on how to get M416 Glacier skin in BGMI for additional tips on acquiring premium weapon skins. For players seeking other exclusive rewards during this period, the BGMI Classic Crate guide provides comprehensive information on maximizing chances for rare drops across all available crate systems.

Valve Wins Lawsuit Against Patent Troll Leigh Rothschild

Aritra Patra
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Valve Wins Lawsuit Against Patent Troll Leigh Rothschild

Valve has won a historic court victory against prolific patent troll Leigh Rothschild, as a US jury has completely come down on the side of Steam in a lawsuit that relies entirely on the anti-patent troll legislation of the state of Washington.

In a verdict delivered in February, a federal jury in the Western District of Washington determined that Rothschild and his related entities violated the Washington Patent Troll Prevention Act and the state’s Consumer Protection Act, as well as violating a previous licensing agreement with Valve. This verdict came in a lawsuit filed in July 2023, in which Valve accused Rothschild’s companies of making a bad-faith patent claim against software technology that Valve was already licensed to use.

Judge Jamal Whitehead had previously found that Rothschild’s 2022 lawsuit itself violated a 2016 global settlement and license agreement, and that the later dismissal of the case did not cure the violation. The jury also issued an advisory verdict that at least one claim of the alleged US Patent No. 8,856,221 was invalid, which supported Valve’s effort to render the patent nugatory in the future.

Rothschild, whose network of shell companies has filed more than 1,000 patent lawsuits against defendants, including tech giants and small businesses, licensed a portfolio of patents to Valve in 2016 under a perpetual, royalty-free, global license. Rothschild’s shell company, Display Technologies, later sued Valve in 2022 over alleged infringement of a “displaying content” patent that was already licensed in the agreement.

Instead of quietly settling, Valve has now countersued Rothschild and various related entities in 2023 under the Washington Patent Troll Prevention Act, claiming that the infringement threats were part of an overall scheme of bad faith assertion. A jury in Seattle has now agreed, assessing approximately 152,000 USD in damages to Valve, an important legal precedent against the business model of patent trolls.

The case shows that anti-troll laws can be used offensively as well as defensively.

NAVI Kicks Out G2 From PGL Cluj-Napoca 2026

Sarjyo Mukherjee
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NAVI Kicks Out G2 From PGL Cluj-Napoca 2026

Natus Vincere are through to the playoffs of PGL Cluj Napoca, beating G2 with a 2-0 scoreline. Edging out on the competitive first map and completing a jaw-dropping comeback in the second saw the CIS side knock G2 out of the event in the final round of the group stage.

VETO

  • G2 removed Nuke
  • Natus Vincere removed Overpass
  • G2 picked Dust2
  • Natus Vincere picked Ancient
  • G2 removed Mirage
  • Natus Vincere removed Anubis
  • Inferno was left over

Map 1: Dust2; Pick: G2; Winner:NAVI

Starting strong on the offense, G2 hit the board but lost to the NAVI force in the round that followed. Trading rounds back and forth, G2 managed to find their footing, putting together round after round, exploiting the weak defensive setup from NAVI in mid and short. Having failed to put together till the final round, b1t clutching a 1v2 in A site closed the gap to 7-5 with the CIS side trailing before switching sides. 7 rounds were all that G2 managed to put together as moving on the offense, NAVI managed to play out a perfect half as they reached the finish line without dropping a single round in the process. The G2 defense helplessly failed to win a single round, leading to a 13-7 finish on the map. While iM topped charts with 22 kills, b1t dropped a very impactful performance that turned the tide of the game as G2’s great start to the map looked like a distant memory.

Map 2: Ancient; Pick: NAVI; Winner:NAVI

Following a tough loss on Dust2, G2 had a solid start on Ancient. Rock-solid defense from G2 managed to get a read of everything NAVI threw at them before NAVI switched up the play with a fast take of the A site, leading to their first round. G2 managed to win 4 more after losing their first round on the defense before NAVI won back-to-back rounds to close out the half, making the scoreline more respectable than before. Switching sides with a 9-3 scoreline, G2’s offense dropped the ball as they did in the second half of Dust2. The NAVI defense remained absolutely flawless, proactive, and aggressive; they managed to break G2’s plans with aggressive pushes, quick utility, and outright reading their plays like a book. Winning all of their CT rounds, NAVI closed the map with a stellar comeback of 13-9 and secured what is arguably their most impressive win of the year.

G2, having failed to impress coming into the event, bows out most dismally, as the roster will be forced into hitting the drawing board. HuNter has been solid as an IGL, but the team has tons of issues to be ironed out. Only time can tell if the current line-up can work together, but as of now, this will be the last of them in Cluj.

R6 Siege Hackers Can Now Control What You See

Aritra Patra
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R6 Siege Hackers Can Now Control What You See

Rainbow Six Siege is now experiencing a new kind of image-based hack that allows hackers to flood players’ screens with disturbing images, ruining gameplay.

As reported, hackers have discovered a means of delivering custom images directly to other players’ screens in the middle of a match in Rainbow Six Siege, filling a substantial part of the screen. In the most lighthearted instances, players are subjected to a cartoon chicken, but the same method is also being employed to compel graphic pornography and gore, such as images of mutilated bodies, onto players’ screens. The effect is an instantaneous full-screen or near-full-screen shock that can immediately ruin a round of competitive play.

For instance, popular R6 streamer BikiniBodhi‘s screen got covered with Charlie Kirk’s image. Because of that, he definitely faced a competitive disadvantage as his full screen got covered for a few seconds.

This is not the first time Rainbow Six’s ecosystem has been abused to push unwanted images at players. In a previous Uplay messaging exploit, attackers included simple HTML and JavaScript code in messages so that opening the message would replace the entire game window with an external image, often pornographic, until the player closed and re-launched the client. The current spate of image exploits in Siege follows the same pattern: using otherwise innocuous UI or overlay mechanics to push content that players never asked to see in the first place.

For content creators, the risks are greater than just losing a ranked match. A single exploited round of hacked gameplay showing explicit or violent images can result in moderation strikes or bans on platforms such as Twitch and YouTube, even if the streamer has no control over what is being shown. According to reports, players are being deliberately targeted for pornography and extreme gore content, which violates most mainstream streaming terms of service simply by existing.

At present, there appears to be no publicly described solution or timeline from Ubisoft. If you have also faced such occurrences, let us know in the comments below.

Ubisoft Reveals Rainbow Six Siege Year 11 Roadmap

Krafton India Disqualified 4 Teams from BGIS 2026 for Cheating, Bribery and Unprofessional Conduct

Aditya Parsutkar
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Krafton India Disqualified 4 Teams from BGIS 2026 for Cheating, Bribery and Unprofessional Conduct

The BGIS 2026 tournament has once again come under the spotlight after Krafton India officially disqualified four teams from Round 3. The announcement was made on 18 February 2026, and the reasons range from cheating and hacking to bribery and unprofessional behavior.

Despite strict monitoring and anti-cheat systems, violations continue to surface in the Battlegrounds Mobile India Series 2026. With this latest action, the total number of disqualified teams in BGIS 2026 has now increased from 15 to 19.

Krafton India Takes Strict Action in BGIS 2026

Krafton India has been actively enforcing its official rulebook to maintain competitive integrity in BGIS 2026. In the latest update, four teams The Creator, CZAR Esports, GenOfMiracle, and Super Esports have been removed from the tournament for violating different sections of the rulebook.

The violations fall under Rule 6.2.2 and Rule 6.3 including 6.3.8 and 6.3.13, which deal with cheating and unprofessional conduct.

The Creator Disqualified Under Rule 6.2.2 for Cheating and Hacking

The first team on the list is The Creator, disqualified under Rule 6.2.2.

This rule directly relates to cheating, hacking, or using any unauthorized software, modified game clients, or unfair tools that provide an in game advantage. The rule clearly states that any attempt to manipulate gameplay unfairly can lead to immediate disqualification.

Cheating remains one of the biggest threats to esports tournaments, and Krafton’s action shows a zero tolerance approach toward unfair gameplay in BGIS 2026.

CZAR Esports Removed for Bribery Violation Under Rule 6.3.8

The most shocking case in this list is CZAR Esports, who were disqualified under Rule 6.3.8.

Rule 6.3.8 prohibits bribery or offering gifts, money, or rewards to influence tournament officials, players, or match outcomes. If a team attempts to manipulate results or influence decisions through financial means, it is considered serious misconduct.

Bribery cases are extremely rare but highly damaging to the credibility of esports tournaments. Interestingly, a similar situation occurred in BGIS 2024 when 47 Esports was disqualified for bribery-related violations. This shows that Krafton India is maintaining strict compliance standards across seasons.

GenOfMiracle and Super Esports Disqualified Under Rule 6.3.13

The third and fourth teams GenOfMiracle and Super Esports, were disqualified under Rule 6.3.13.

Rule 6.3 focuses on unprofessional behavior. This includes actions such as inviting unauthorized individuals, obscuring identity, failing to maintain professional standards, or violating confidentiality and conduct guidelines.

Although the exact reason has not been publicly detailed, Rule 6.3.13 generally deals with serious conduct violations that harm the integrity of the competition.

Read More: BGMI 4.3 Update Release Date, M1 Garand, Racing Mode and New Features Explained

BGMI ID Ban Controversy Around GenOfMiracle Players

A day before the disqualification announcement, reports surfaced that two GenOfMiracle players Aiden and Sharan had their Battlegrounds Mobile India IDs banned.

Initially, online discussions suggested hacking as the reason. However, a source from within the team clarified that the ban was allegedly related to UC carding, which means unauthorized purchase of in game currency.

According to the internal clarification, the players were reportedly scammed during the UC purchase process, which ultimately led to their accounts being banned. If true, this is still a serious violation, as carding is strictly prohibited under BGMI policies and can directly impact tournament eligibility.

At the moment, no official detailed public statement has been released by the players themselves.

Total Disqualified Teams in BGIS 2026 Now 19

Earlier in the tournament, 15 teams were already disqualified from BGIS 2026 for various violations, with 3 teams banned. With these four new names added, the total number of disqualified teams has now reached 19.

This clearly shows that Krafton India is actively monitoring gameplay, conduct, and compliance. Whether it is cheating, bribery, or professional misconduct, strict action is being taken to maintain fair competition.

What This Means for Indian Esports

BGIS is one of the biggest esports tournaments in India. Incidents like cheating and bribery not only affect individual teams but also damage the credibility of the entire competitive scene.

However, the strong and consistent enforcement of rules sends a clear message that fairness comes first. Talent and hard work matter more than shortcuts.

As BGIS 2026 moves forward, the focus will now shift back to the remaining teams who continue to compete fairly for the championship.

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