Overwatch 2's competitive Stadium mode is set for major enhancements in Season 19, including an upgraded Armory, customizable combat text, and new 'Gadgets'. These changes aim to provide players with more strategic depth, better inventory management, and personalized gameplay feedback, transforming the competitive experience.

Treyarch has announced significant changes for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, including defaulting to "minimal skill consideration" matchmaking and bringing back persistent lobbies. These shifts aim to provide a more varied multiplayer experience, moving away from skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) that has been a point of contention for years. The beta testing reportedly influenced these decisions, catering to players seeking less competitive and more unpredictable matches.

A YouTube creator, CNCDan, has successfully constructed a functional VR headset using 3D-printed components and affordable parts sourced from AliExpress, costing under $150. This innovative project offers a high-resolution experience (2880 x 1440p) with adjustable screens, rivaling more expensive commercial options. Despite a refresh rate limitation to 60 Hz on SteamVR, the open-source nature of the project provides a promising pathway for more accessible virtual reality hardware, especially for budget-conscious enthusiasts and sim racing fans.

Valve's highly anticipated standalone VR headset, codenamed Deckard, has reportedly entered mass production and is expected to launch during the holiday season this year. A Chinese analyst group estimates 400,000–600,000 units will be produced annually. This new device aims to build upon the success of the Valve Index, offering a standalone experience and potentially a more budget-friendly option, or a high-end rival to devices like the Apple Vision Pro.

This week's Nintendo Download for North America delivers a fresh wave of games to the eShop. Players can explore a diverse catalog including the remastered platformer Yooka-Replaylee, the strategic RPG Disgaea 7 Complete, and the atmospheric co-op puzzle adventure We Were Here Together. The update also features a variety of new releases spanning genres from arcade classics to hidden object games, offering something for every Nintendo Switch owner.

Bethesda recently invited editors from the Unofficial Elder Scrolls Pages (UESP) to its offices to help design a character for the highly anticipated Elder Scrolls 6. This collaboration has generated considerable excitement within the gaming community, signaling progress for the game and highlighting Bethesda's appreciation for its dedicated fanbase. The UESP editors, known for their deep knowledge of Elder Scrolls lore, expressed enthusiasm about the game's future.

Keith Ammann, renowned for his insights into tabletop RPGs, has released a new book, 'Making Enemies,' which delves into the art of designing compelling monsters. Building on his popular blog and previous works, this resource offers game masters a comprehensive guide to creating antagonists that enhance player immersion and challenge. The book covers diverse topics from philosophical considerations of 'what makes a monster' to practical design tips, ensuring a richer gaming experience for all.

OpenAI aims to transform ChatGPT into an operating system within the next few years, moving beyond its current text-based interface. This shift will enable ChatGPT to host various applications for writing, coding, and interacting with services, much like traditional operating systems. This strategy aligns with OpenAI's goal to commercialize its AI technology by creating a platform that supports third-party app integration and revenue sharing.

Nintendo Switch Online is expanding its retro game library with three new titles. Headlining the additions is the puzzle-platformer “Mario & Wario,” previously exclusive to Japan and requiring a Super NES Mouse. Also joining are “Bubsy in: Claws Encounters of the Furred Kind,” the inaugural game in the Bubsy series, and “Fatal Fury Special,” an enhanced version of “Fatal Fury 2.” These games offer a nostalgic trip for subscribers, with “Mario & Wario” providing a unique control scheme challenge for Switch players.

Indika, the unique 2024 third-person adventure game blending faith, religion, and dark humor, is set to launch on Nintendo Switch on November 17th, with a physical release on November 28th. This surreal title, where players guide a nun connected to the Devil through 19th-century Russia, recently earned the Game Designers Award at the Japan Game Awards, celebrated by Masahiro Sakurai for its innovative gameplay and atmospheric storytelling.

Jamie Dimon, CEO of JP Morgan, expresses significant concerns about a looming market correction, potentially within two years, attributing it to an overheated US stock market and various geopolitical factors. He also touches upon the AI investment boom, noting its potential for long-term benefits despite probable short-term losses for many investors, aligning with recent warnings from the Bank of England about AI-driven market volatility.

Bloober Team announced a new version of "Layers of Fear" called "Layers of Fear: Final Masterpiece Edition" for the Nintendo Switch 2. Expected to be an enhanced port utilizing Unreal Engine 5, this edition will combine storylines from the first two games. The company also confirmed a delay for "I Hate This Place" until January 29, 2026.