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SWEET HOME CHICAGO! THE COUNTDOWN TO OLD SCHOOL RUNESCAPE’S DEADMAN ALL STARS FINALS BEGINS AS TICKETS GO ON SALE 28TH FEBRUARY

Tickets for the first RuneScape event ever held outside of the UK go on sale this Saturday!

Thursday 26th February 2026, Cambridge, UK – Jagex has announced tickets for Old School RuneScape’s Deadman All Stars Live will go on general sale on 16:00 GMT, Saturday 28th February via Ticketmaster. Players will also be able to purchase tickets in a limited pre-sale period which will go live on 16:00 GMT, 27th February with a pre-sale code which is acquired via the Jagex Launcher. 

Taking place at the Rosemont Theatre, Chicago, Illinois on Saturday, 20th June, this creator-led, invitational Esports tournament is a significant step for the RuneScape franchise and Jagex. In addition to being the first live All Stars event, the finals are the first time a RuneScape event will be held outside of the UK since its launch in 2001. 

What is Deadman: All Stars?

  • Deadman: All Stars is the annual, invite-only version of Old School RuneScape’s open PvP Deadman game mode. The finals will see six invited, creator-led teams battle live on stage in front of a packed auditorium, until only the victorious remain.
  • A highly intense and competitive tournament that celebrates the very best of the Old School RuneScape Community, All Stars sees 30 participants drafted into the teams of five before battling to be the last team standing.
  • The build up to the finals take place over nine days, with each player limited to 120 hours of playtime, during which time teams must build their game accounts from scratch, accruing gear ahead of the finale in Chicago.
  • Season 1 winners and Season 2 runners-up, Dino Nuggets, will look to reclaim the crown, while another returning team, Odablock Warriors, will hope to go one better than their previous best of second place, and snag the top spot.

Ticket prices will range from $94.99-$189.99 for standard tickets, depending on which tier of seating you select. There are also limited amounts of VIP package options available between Rune and Dragon. These packages both include additional extras and some of the best seating, with Dragon providing an all-inclusive, special access experience. 

Rune Package is priced at $334.99 and Dragon Package at $504.99. For more information about the packages on offer please visit the Deadman All Stars website.

Alongside the event’s tickets, Jagex has opened pre-orders for a range of merchandise celebrating Deadman All Stars Live. Embracing a fashion-forward, streetwear aesthetic, these lines are available with an early-bird discount on pre-order. These lines will form part of the wider range available at the event with the exception of the Icon Hoodie, available exclusively on pre-order and never to be restocked or resold.

The tournament and finals will also be live-streamed on the Old School RuneScape Twitch account, hosted by high-profile players Solo Mission, Purespam, and EVSscape shoutcasting, enabling fans who can’t get to Chicago to witness what will be a tense battle for the Deadman: All Stars crown.

More information on Deadman All Stars Live can be found here.

Old School RuneScape is available now on PC, Steam, iOS, and Android, complete with cross-platform progression and play on PC and mobile.  

About Jagex

Headquartered in Cambridge, United Kingdom, Jagex: The RuneScape Company, is a leader in creating deep and engaging forever games that empower communities across PC and mobile. Our MMORPG franchise, RuneScape, is played around the world and has welcomed over 300 million player accounts.

As RuneScape enters its 25th year in 2026, we are accelerating our strategy to expand RuneScape into a broader ecosystem of forever games and connected experiences, grounded in a renewed commitment to integrity and fair play. This includes the reduction of monetisation mechanics, as well as the launch of RuneScape: Dragonwilds into Steam Early Access in 2025, representing a major step in building a multi-genre future for the RuneScape universe. Jagex: The RuneScape Company remains focused on building enduring worlds, empowering player-led innovation, and laying the foundations for the boldest era in RuneScape’s history.

RHELL: WARPED WORLDS & TROUBLED TIMES: DEEP DIVE SERIES 

Every Choice Shapes Not Just the World, But Who Rhell Becomes 

Bristol, UK – February 26, 2026 – Yogscast Games is thrilled to share more details on Rhell: Warped Words & Troubled Times, ahead of its March 12, 2026, release. Following our earlier two deep dives into the mystical adventure and the game’s unique spell-casting systems, the team now explores Rhell’s journey of self-discovery.

After an unexplained event causes people to mysteriously vanish, Rhell’s adventure begins in search of answers. The game’s design systems are carefully created to ensure that progression is not merely mechanical but emotional, and each choice made by the player underscores the feeling that the journey matters. 

This emotional bond is forged between Rhell and the remaining handful of NPC’s, who have survived the vanishing world, through quirky interactions and conversations. “One of the most endearing parts of Rhell’s character arc is that she isn’t instantly charming. She starts out brash and guarded, but as the story unfolds, her journey begins to soften her personality,” says game creator Alice Jarratt from SlugGlove. “That transition is something we deliberately designed and forms a core part of the gameplay experience.” 

These moments ground the adventure, giving meaning to moments that could otherwise feel abstract. Every decision a player makes influences how the story unfolds and helps Rhell understand who she truly is as a person. Players have a high degree of ownership in the development of Rhell’s identity, making her growth feel personal and earned.  

Developed by SlugGlove, Rhell will be released on Steam on March 12 2026.

About Yogscast Games  Yogscast Games was established in 2017, with a simple goal: to work with independent teams to develop and publish games which are as fun to watch as they are to play. Responsible for a string of hits such as PlateUp!, which has sold over two million copies on Steam, and Dungeons & Degenerate Gamblers, which grossed over $1m in its first month on sale, it prides itself in working with tiny teams doing brilliant things.

Realm of Ink Confirms Multiplatform Launch! Coming to PC & Consoles on May 26, 2026

The acclaimed ink-style action roguelite arrives on PC, PS5, Xbox Series & Nintendo Switch, featuring new content and a special character crossover revealed.

February 26, 2026. Publisher4Divinity, a publishing label of GCL Global Holdings [NASDAQ: GCL], anddeveloperLeap Studio today announced that the highly anticipated fast-paced action roguelite Realm of Ink will officially launch on PlayStation 5,Xbox Series, andNintendo Switch onMay 26 2026, releasing simultaneously with the game’s V1.0 PC launch.

Blending exquisite Chinese-inspired ink-style art, modern 2.5D presentation, and razor-sharp combat, Realm of Ink follows Red, a fierce swordswoman trapped inside a world painted in ink. As she hunts the elusive Fox Demon, Red discovers a devastating truth: her life is nothing more than a scripted tale. To escape, she must carve through illusion, defy destiny, and rewrite her story page by page.

Currently in Steam Early Access with Very Positive player reviews, Realm of Ink has grown through continuous updates, balance passes, seasonal events, and player-driven improvements. Leap Studio has been deeply engaged with the community, using their insights to refine every system, from combat flow to progression depth, and all of these enhancements will carry forward into the console versions and the upcoming PC 1.0 launch.

Players can wishlist Realm of Ink today on Xbox Series and PC via Steam, with PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch following shortly. PC and Xbox fans can already experience the Ink Realm firsthand throughthe free demo available now on Steam and the Xbox Store, showcasing the game’s striking visual style and evolving roguelite depth.

To celebrate the release date announcement, the team has also unveiled a brand-new trailer, packed with never-before-seen gameplay footage and stunning new cinematics from the ink-painted world of Realm of Ink. The trailer offers players their best look yet at the game’s razor-sharp combat, haunting environments, and evolving story, giving fans a thrilling taste of the adventure awaiting them. 

In another thrilling reveal, Leap Studio is excited to announce a special collaboration with developer 91Act, bringing Oread, the formidable Stage 4 boss from BlazBlue Entropy Effect, into Realm of Ink as a fully playable character.

Entering the Ink Realm in style, Oread arrives armed with a powerful new Ink Gem, two exclusive Ink Pet skins, and a set of devastating new perks designed to complement her unique combat prowess, giving players bold new ways to reshape their builds and dominate the battlefield. Be sure to watch until the end of the trailer for the first reveal of this exciting character crossover. 

About Realm of Ink

Realm of Ink is a fast-paced, ink-washed action roguelite where the line between fate and freedom blurs, and your very existence is written in the margins. As Red, players chase the Fox Demon only to discover they are trapped inside a narrative not of their making. The only escape is rebellion, cutting through enemies, illusions, and the story itself.

In this living manuscript, death is not defeat, it’s rebirth. Each run reshapes the narrative, unlocking new combat forms, supernatural abilities, and evolving “Story Relics” that rearrange themselves with every attempt. Along the way, players will confront four powerful bosses determined to keep them ink-bound, and encounter more than 20 mythical beings inspired by Chinese folklore.

With every slash, every revelation, and every rebirth, players inch closer to breaking the cycle and writing their own ending.

Key Features

  • Endless Cycles & Rebirth – Break free from prewritten fate as you unlock powerful new forms with each run. Harness the Fox Demon’s immortal abilities, battle through ever-shifting Story Relics, and face four unique bosses who guard the truth at the heart of the ink-bound world.
  • Creative, Fierce & Fluid Combat – Master 9 distinct combat forms and weapons, each offering unique playstyles. Equip 40+ elemental Ink Gems, including Tiger Ink, Venom Ink, and Dragon Ink, to forge devastating combos. Build deeper synergies with 200+ unlockable perks such as the Shadow Kite, Octagram Dart, Lock Charms, and the Lamp of Seven Stars.
  • Evolving Ink Pets – Fight alongside adorable-but-deadly Ink Pets, each capable of evolving into more than 15 unique forms depending on your Ink Gem combinations. These companions grow stronger as your story deepens.
  • A Vibrant Eastern Fantasy World – Explore four atmospheric realms inspired by Chinese folklore, battle over 20 mythic creatures, and uncover their hidden stories through dialogue, lore encounters, and affection-based interactions.

Rewrite Your Destiny and Wishlist Realm of Ink on all major storefronts now! PC and Xbox players can begin their journey immediately with the free demos! 

Realm of Ink arrives on May 26, 2026 with a unified launch across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, Nintendo Switch, and PC V1.0.

About 4Divinity

4Divinity is a digital and retail games publishing company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of GCL, focused on bringing exciting game content from around the world to Asia and introducing Asian content to a global market. Along with its sister company, Epicsoft Asia, 4Divinity is partnering with publishers and development studios to introduce brand-new IP to the region.

About GCL Global Holdings

GCL Global Holdings Ltd. (“GCL”) is a holding company incorporated in the Cayman Islands(GCL together with its subsidiaries, the “GCL Group”). Through its operating subsidiaries, GCLGroup unites people through its ecosystem of content and hardware in games and entertainment, enabling creators to deliver engaging experiences to gaming communities worldwide with a strategic focus on the rapidly expanding Asian gaming market. Drawing on a deep understanding of gaming trends and market dynamics, GCL Group leverages its diverse portfolio of digital and physical content as well as multimedia peripherals to bridge cultures and reach global audience by introducing Asian-developed IP across consoles, PCs, and streaming platforms. 

Hethereau Calling: NTE (Neverness to Everness) Launches April 29

Pre-registration campaign open now for exclusive rewards

BEIJING, CHINA (February 26, 2026) Perfect World Games and Hotta Studio are thrilled to announce that their ambitious, urban open-world RPG, NTE (Neverness to Everness), will launch on April 29, 2026, for PC, PlayStation®5, iOS, and Android, with pre-registration pages open now for all platforms – and a host of rewards available to the community as thanks for signing up ahead of the big day.

Over the past 18 months, NTE has invited players onto the streets of Hethereau through two global beta tests and at appearances at major events like gamescom and Tokyo Game Show, all of which have resulted in a hugely positive response from the community and invaluable feedback for improving the game. For the official launch, players can look forward to:

A Polished Visual Experience:

  • Updated to Unreal Engine 5.7 with Global Illumination System support
  • NVIDIA DLSS 4 with Multi-Frame Gen
  • Updated character models, with enhanced designs and details

Immersive Urban Gameplay

  • Crime Mechanics: Committing illegal acts in the city increases your wanted level, which may lead to a police pursuit! After being captured, players will be sent to the detention center, where they can either work to repay their debt to society…or attempt to break out!
  • Engaging multiplayer gameplay: Players can invite friends to their world, where they can race, play mahjong, and participate in the Pink Paws Heist!
  • First-person POV available, both for driving and exploring on foot

Highway Freedom

  • Numerous vehicle models for players to choose from, including regular cars, muscle cars, supercars, and motorbikes
  • High fidelity physics engine: Players can honk their horns and jump off their vehicles mid-ride, while the vehicles themselves are also now susceptible to popped tires, knockbacks, damage and…explosions! 
  • Real-time drifting: The driving experience will be affected by different weather conditions, with rain and snow increasing the risk of losing control

Hit the goals to unlock exclusive launch rewards!

As thanks to the community for all their feedback, Perfect World Games has also opened up several reward tiers as part of a pre-registration campaign, giving fans the chance to earn a selection of bonuses after the launch.

The list of potential Pre-Registration Milestone Rewards includes:

  • 15 million pre-registrations: Beetle Coin x30,000
  • 20 million pre-registrations: Elite Hunter Guide x20
  • 25 million pre-registrations: Fabricated Dice x5
  • 30 million pre-registrations: Character – Haniel x1
  • 35 million pre-registrations: Fabricated Dice x15

About NTE

NTE is an ambitious and unique online RPG that takes place in the city of Hethereau – a vast, seamless open world rendered with the power of Unreal Engine 5, where humans co-exist with supernatural anomalies. Players will control a range of vibrant and dynamic characters, each with their own unique personalities and abilities, to explore the city and investigate these anomalies in episodic comedy-drama storylines.

Aside from the core story and RPG gameplay, players will also be able to take part in an ever-expanding roster of activities, including collecting, modding, and racing sports cars, buying and designing their own chic city getaways, and even running a business. Whatever you choose to do with your time in Hethereau, the experience will always be immersive, absorbing, and never-ending. 

NTE launches on April 29 for PC, PlayStation 5, iOS, and Android. More information is available via the NTE website.

About Perfect World Games

Perfect World Games is a global gaming company specializing in game development, operations, and publishing. With a diverse product portfolio across MMO, open-world, action, turn-based, and other genres, the company has expanded its presence on multiple platforms, including PC, mobile, consoles, and VR. Leveraging its industry-leading in-house development capabilities, Perfect World Games is committed to delivering high-quality game content and experiences to players worldwide.

About Hotta Studio

Hotta Studio previously developed the globally released open-world game Tower of Fantasy. Tower of Fantasy features a light sci-fi art style with anime aesthetics, and was created with Unreal Engine 4, providing players worldwide with a rich and diverse open-world gaming experience.

Popular medieval survival RPG Bellwright coming to PS5 and Xbox Series consoles

New video premiered during IGN Fan Fest

Los Angeles, CA – February 26, 2025 –  Donkey Crew, in partnership with Snail Games USA, has revealed that their popular medieval open-world survival RPG Bellwright is now slated for PlayStation 5 in addition to previously announced Xbox Series consoles. To commemorate this reveal, Donkey Crew has unleashed the following all new video that premiered yesterday during IGN Fan Fest:

Bellwright is a medieval open-world survival RPG where you can establish and expand your own settlements, liberate the land and assist its villagers, and recruit others to your cause while learning more about a life you had to leave behind. Command your forces, prove your valor through combat, and cement yourself as the hero of your people.

Now available on Steam Early AccessBellwright recently saw a massive expansion with its Maiden Voyage update last December, adding the new Halmare Isles map, which is roughly 25% the size of the original game! At over 10 square kilometers, this region includes all new story-based quests with multiple progression lines, expanded armor and equipment, new animals and buildings, and introduces a Loyalty & Faction system.

About Donkey Crew
Donkey Crew is an independent studio made up of talented, experienced developers from every corner of the world. Starting as a small team of passionate gamers working together within a large Mount & Blade modding community, the group grew into a professional company developing indie titles. Based in Wroclaw, Poland, Donkey Crew continues their journey as an indie developer while growing and expanding. www.donkey.team/

About Snail Games USA
Snail Games is a leading global developer and publisher, known for delivering innovative, immersive gaming experiences across a range of genres and platforms. With a legacy of technological innovation and a focus on community engagement, Snail Games is shaping the future of interactive entertainment. snail.com

New God Save Birmingham Developer Update Dives Into New Guide System, Weapons, Construction, and More

Ahead of the Closed Alpha Test later this week

El Segundo, California – February 26, 2026 | Kakao Games and Ocean Drive Studio have released the second Developer Update video for God Save Birmingham, talking through many new features in the game that will be available for players to try out during this weekend’s Closed Alpha Test.

Watch God Save Birmingham Developer Update 2 below:

The new Developer Update video dives into combat in God Save Birmingham. As well as the reveal of a new blunt weapon type – which includes hammers, maces, and even hunks of meat – the video also shows off an improved aiming system coming to the game, allowing players to more accurately target specific areas on their zombie foes. 

Enemies react differently depending on which body part is hit, with the newly added scythe weapon a perfect example. A well-placed swing could cleave a zombie’s head right off its body, but aim lower down and a player could use it to slice through an undead’s legs and knock them down to the ground.

Ocean Drive Studio also gives players a first look at construction and durability systems, allowing players to break down larger objects, or build and place structures like fire pits and install barricades, doors, and latches.

Other additions include a deeper health management system to avoid disease and injury, a new guide system, crafting, and custom animations for each gameplay mechanic.

“The feedback we’ve received from pre-alpha testers has been extremely valuable during our work on God Save Birmingham,” said creative director Hyeonseong Cha. “Thanks to the support of our players, we’re incredibly excited to welcome players for the Closed Alpha Test.”

Phase 1 of the God Save Birmingham Closed Alpha Test took place last weekend, resulting in plenty of useful feedback for the development team. Phase 2, which brings in both new and existing testers, will run from 26 February to 2 March 2026. 

God Save Birmingham is available to wishlist on Steam now.

About Kakao Games

Kakao Games (CEO Sang-Woo Han) is the gaming subsidiary of Kakao, specializing in both publishing and development across a wide range of genres, from casual to hardcore titles on PC and mobile. Since its KOSDAQ listing in September 2020, Kakao Games has successfully developed and launched popular titles such as Odin: Valhalla Rising, Uma Musume Pretty Derby, Eversoul, Guardian Tales, and Kakao Battlegrounds, with multiple global releases on the horizon. Kakao Games remains committed to expanding its portfolio and exploring new opportunities in the evolving gaming landscape.

About Ocean Drive Studio

Ocean Drive Studio, a subsidiary of Kakao Games, is a company dedicated to developing and servicing games that resonate with global fans who love the same genres that their developers know and are passionate about. The studio gained attention with the release of its first game, the turn-based tactical RPG Lost Eidolons, on Steam, PS5, and Xbox. Building on this success, they have released the second game in the same genre, Lost Eidolons: Veil of the Witch, as well as other titles including the roguelite shooterSection 13. Upcoming games include the physics-based sandbox survival game God Save Birmingham, and an action RPG based on the IP Sword Master Youngest Son. Ocean Drive Studio aims to deliver unique and engaging gaming experiences to gamers around the world through these diverse game genres.

TEAR DOWN TOGETHER! TEARDOWN’S ONLINE MULTIPLAYER UPDATE TUMBLES ONTO STEAM MARCH 12

Assemble a squad of up to 12 players to blast through the campaign, competitive multiplayer, destructible Sandbox mode, and endless mod experiences together!

MALMÖ, SwedenFeb. 26, 2026 – Call in your wrecking crew! Teardown developer and publisher Tuxedo Labs is thrilled to announce that the award-winning destructible heist game’s long-awaited online multiplayer update is launching for all players on Steam on March 12. This is the largest free update since Teardown’s launch, introducing the opportunity to heist together in the original base game’s campaign in co-op, go head-to-head in hundreds of dev- and community-made multiplayer game modes, and create a variety of maps, weapons, and more using Teardown’s robust collection of modding tools!

One of the community’s most highly requested features, the online multiplayer update will allow up to 12 players to experience the fully destructible world of Teardown together! Play multiplayer classics like Deathmatch, Team Deathmatch, and Capture the Flag, tackle the base game’s campaign in co-op, get creative (or destructive) together in Sandbox Mode, and explore the ever-growing list of multiplayer-specific community mods. With the entire base game’s map collection, two brand-new, dual-sided arenas, and an expansive library of community-made maps on the other end of your sledgehammer, the possibilities are nearly limitless!

This update will also introduce multiplayer functionality to the Teardown API, enabling creators to build new cooperative and competitive game modes, maps, tools, and more to further expand the Teardown experience via the in-game mod library. Over the course of multiple pre-launch playtests, the modding community has already launched hundreds of multiplayer-specific mods, including competitive game modes like The Floor Is Lava, Battle Royale, and Prop Hunt.

The March 12 online multiplayer update on Steam is just the beginning! The multiplayer update is expected to arrive on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S later this year, and the team also plans to release a new high-octane multiplayer racing experience for Teardown in the future.

Winner of multiple awards, including Excellence in Design at the Independent Games Festival, Teardown’s realistic physics and fully destructible, voxel-simulated world give players total freedom to discover unique and emergent gameplay solutions to almost any challenge. Plan and pull off the perfect heists nearly any way you can dream of with an expanding arsenal of tools and vehicles, plus anything else you can get your hands on.

For more Teardown, visit TeardownGame.com, and join the community on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Discord to keep up with the latest info, including news regarding the game’s fourth major DLC, coming later this year.

About Tuxedo Labs

Tuxedo Labs is a tech-driven game studio in Malmö, Sweden. We are a small team of seasoned game developers creating innovative and unique games based on new technologies. Our mission is to push the limits in both game technology, interactivity and gameplay. To achieve that, we create our own tools and game engines, like it used to be. Our first game, Teardown, is based on groundbreaking voxel technology combined with destruction physics and ray tracing. www.TuxedoLabs.com

Over 500,000 participants expected: Roland-Garros eSeries by Renault is back in 2026! 

Laure Valée will host the Final Stage  

  • The French Tennis Federation has announced the return of Roland-Garros eSeries by Renault in 2026.
  • The Final Stage will take place on May 23 at the Roland-Garros auditorium in front of an audience and will be live streamed on the France TV digital platform, as well as on  the Roland-Garros YouTube channel, in English
  • This edition marks the arrival of the renowned eSports presenter and journalist Laure Valée as the official host of the Final Stage.
  • The 2025 edition attracted more than 515,000 participants from 221 territories worldwide competing in almost 9.5 million matches played on the virtual clay of the Philippe-Chatrier Court.
  • Players can qualify for a spot among the eight finalists by taking part free of charge in one of three Open Qualifiers held from March 5 to April 7, accessible worldwide on mobile and tablet.
  • The French Tennis Federation has renewed its partnership with Tennis Clash, the current top tennis game developed by Wildlife Studios, which will remain the official mobile game of Roland-Garros and of the competition until 2030.
  • An original visual identity has been created by Mafiou, a renowned artistic director and 2D animator in the sports industry.
  • Renault and Mastercard are renewing their support for the event as title partner and official partner, respectively.
  • The €5,000 prize pool will be shared between the winner and the runner-up.

Paris, France – February 26 2026 – The French Tennis Federation is delighted to announce the return of the world’s biggest eTennis competition, Roland-Garros eSeries by Renault, for a 2026 edition that promises to be more ambitious than ever. The event has grown spectacularly since 2022 and now enjoys international recognition within the eSports community. The 2025 edition stood out for its very high level of participation, with more than 515,000 players from 221 territories competing in a total of 9.5 million matches held on the virtual Philippe-Chatrier Court. 

Building on this exceptional momentum, the French Tennis Federation reaffirms its ambition to bring eTennis to the biggest stages. For the 2026 edition, the event will welcome Laure Valée, an iconic eSports presenter, as host of the Final Stage. The show will be streamed simultaneously on the France TV digital platform and, in English, on the Roland-Garros YouTube channel. This new dimension is also embodied by a visual identity created by Mafiou, a renowned artist in the sports sector, whose animations have been featured by major brands and teams such as Adidas, FC Barcelona and even the Chicago Bulls.

In line with this announcement, the French Tennis Federation is officially renewing its strategic partnership with Tennis Clash, developed by Wildlife Studios, which will remain the tournament’s official mobile game through 2030. With more than 5 million players connecting each month, the title is the world’s leading tennis game and notably featured in the 2023 Olympics Esports Series. The synergy between the Parisian Grand Slam and Tennis Clash is the result of four years of close collaboration, delivering an ever more immersive gaming experience. Players can enjoy a faithful replica of the Philippe-Chatrier Court, exclusive event outfits, racket strings and bags, the official tournament soundtrack, as well as match calls voiced by the internationally renowned umpire Aurélie Tourte. This growing momentum has since inspired the other Grand Slam tournaments, all of which now collaborate with the game, while further recognition comes through the integration of professional players into the app.

“The renewal of our partnership with the French Tennis Federation through 2030 reflects a shared ambition to make eTennis a lasting pillar of the global tennis ecosystem. By blending the heritage of Roland-Garros with cutting-edge digital experiences in Tennis Clash, we’re creating new ways for fans to engage with the sport while delivering an increasingly authentic and immersive competitive stage for players worldwide.” says Giovanni Piffer, Head of Partnerships for Tennis Clash.

For the 2026 edition, Roland-Garros eSeries by Renault keeps the format that has driven its success, while aiming to raise the bar even higher in terms of excellence, immersion, and competitiveness. Three open qualifying stages, organised between March and April, will give players all over the world the opportunity to compete for a spot among the eight finalists. 

The three qualified competitors will be joined in the Final Stage by the top female players from the two first Open Qualifiers, alongside the two finalists of the Grand Tour – the circuit reserved for the best Tennis Clash players – as well as defending champion Samuel Sanin Ortiz of Colombia, known as “Sasmis”. 

The eight title contenders will enjoy a fully authentic immersion in the competitive world of professional tennis, delivering a unique experience designed to align eTennis even more closely with the standards of traditional sport. They will compete for the title during the Final Stage which will take place on Saturday, May 23 2026, on stage at the Roland-Garros auditorium in front of a live audience and streamed in English on the Parisian Grand Slam official YouTube channel. 

The 2026 edition also marks the return of the team stage, introduced last year and once again led by household names from the tennis world. Players will then move on to the singles draw, played in a double-elimination bracket format, ensuring a high level of competition right through to the final matches. The two finalists will share a total prize pool of €5,000

On the entertainment side, Roland-Garros eSeries by Renault is pleased to welcome Laure Valée as host of the Final Stage. Named Esports Host of the Year at the Game Awards 2025, she has established herself as an iconic presenter on the competitive scene, both in France and internationally. She rose to prominence through her collaborations with Canal+, beIN Sports, France Info and by hosting some of the biggest eSports events, notably in League of Legends. Her deep understanding of the sector’s ecosystem, combined with her expertise and her strong connection with the community, makes her the ideal host to guide viewers through the most memorable moments of the tournament. For the occasion, she will be joined by a team of Tennis Clash specialists and tennis pundits. 

The live production will deliver comprehensive editorial coverage, combining analysis, interviews, immersive backstage access and match insights, with the ambition of offering viewers a premium, cutting-edge experience.

“I am proud to join Roland-Garros eSeries by Renault, which brings together my passion for eSports and a sport I have always enjoyed. Esports continues to grow with the emergence of new disciplines, and I am delighted to see competitions that bridge traditional sport and esports gaining such importance. I am truly looking forward to experiencing this Final Stage alongside the players and the audience,” stated Laure Valée.

Title partner Renault is renewing its commitment alongside the French Tennis Federation, reflecting a shared vision focused on innovation, emerging practices and the use of digital technology to promote the values of sport. This support will result in a stronger presence within the game environment to provide an even more immersive digital experience. A long-standing supporter of gaming and esports events, Mastercard also continues its involvement as an official partner, reaffirming its role in enhancing esports experiences and bringing gamers, fans and communities closer to their passion for eTennis. These essential partners contribute to the ongoing development of eTennis and strengthen Roland-Garros’ position as a driving force for evolution within global tennis.

“We are very proud to support the ongoing development of Roland-Garros eSeries by Renault. This competition perfectly embodies our vision: connecting generations through innovative and ambitious experiences. As title partner, we aim to actively contribute to the growth and visibility of a new form of competition at the crossroads of tennis and digital entertainment, while staying true to the values of excellence and self-improvement that we share with Roland-Garros,” said Stéphane Barbat, Director of Partnerships at Renault.

With the 2026 edition, the French Tennis Federation reaffirms its ambition to establish eTennis as a lasting cornerstone of its ecosystem, building bridges between tennis, digital innovation and eSports competition, and bringing together an ever-growing and increasingly active community.

The Open Qualifiers will take place on the following dates:

  • OQ #1: March 5-10 2026
  • OQ #2: March 19-24 2026
  • OQ #3: April 2-7 2026
  • Grand Tour #1: March 2-23 2026
  • Grand Tour #2: from March 23 to April 12 2026

Anyone wishing to sign up for one of the open qualifiers can do so for free using their smartphone or tablet via the Tennis Clash app.

About Roland-Garros eSeries by Renault

Founded in 2018, Roland-Garros eSeries by Renault is the world’s most important and inclusive eTennis tournament. The competition features three open qualifying tournaments which are free to enter directly via the Tennis Clash app.  The Final Stage brings together eight participants; the 5 players who made it through the Open Qualifiers will face the two best players from the Grand Tour and the defending champion. The initial team stage is returning in 2026 followed by a singles double-elimination bracket. It will take place on Friday 22 and Saturday, 23 May 2026 in the Roland-Garros Tenniseum Auditorium. Since 2022, the competition has been held on the most popular mobile tennis game, Tennis Clash, developed by Wildlife Studios. With this new format, Roland-Garros eSeries by Renault is consolidating its leadership on the global eTennis scene.

About Tennis Clash

Tennis Clash is an online tennis game developed by Wildlife Studios where players compete in fast-paced, competitive and exciting games. With 180 million downloads and a community of 5 million players connecting every month, the game is a real success. Its eSports development continues to grow along with its recognition in the tennis world thanks to the creation of competitions in partnership with the four Grand Slam tournaments and through its inclusion in the 2023 Olympics Esports Series.  Easy to grasp but tough to master, the game remains faithful to both the physical and tactical aspects of tennis.

Tennis Clash is available at the Google Play Store and the App Store

FARMCON 26 AT VOLVO: FARMING SIMULATOR FANS OPERATE EXCAVATORS FOR ANNIVERSARY

GIANTS Software is gearing up for FarmCon 26: The publisher and developer of the family-friendly series has announced that the community event will take place on the weekend of August 1-2 at Volvo Construction Equipment in Konz, Germany. This year, the annual convention not only celebrates the ever-growing community, but its 10th anniversary.

Meeting Devs, Driving Excavator

Fans, modders and content creators can meet the team and creative minds behind Farming Simulator and are invited to attend a variety of stage presentations. As has been the tradition since the first FarmCon in 2016, visitors have the opportunity to find out more about current and future Farming Simulator projects and speak to the team directly during Q&A sessions.

Taking place at Volvo Construction Equipment in Konz, visitors can look forward to even more entertainment and hands-on activities off the stage: join factory tours for a behind-the-scenes look into Volvo CE’s production halls, then step outside into the sandbox to test drive the future, including electric construction machines. Excavators and wheel loaders will be available for test drive, while younger fans can hop into kid-sized Volvo machines. And of course, real machines will be standing by as a state-of-the-art backdrop for selfies.

Tickets Now Available!

“We’re excited to host FarmCon 26 together with Volvo, one of the world’s most respected names in construction and transportation – and a fan-favorite brand in Farming Simulator,” says Christian Ammann, CEO of GIANTS Software. “Our shared passion for high-tech machines, both real and virtual, drives us to deliver a spectacular event as we celebrate FarmCon’s tenth anniversary. See you at FarmCon 26!”

Every FarmCon 26 ticket includes a coupon that can be redeemed for a goodie bag filled with popular merchandise. More information about the program, schedule, and activities of the annual community event, organized by GIANTS Software, will be announced closer to the event. Visit the official Farming Simulator website.

About GIANTS Software
GIANTS Software is a globally operating game developer and publisher headquartered in Zürich, Switzerland. Established in 2004, the company is known for creating the popular Farming Simulator franchise. With international teams, including offices in Erlangen (Germany) and Brno (Czech Republic), GIANTS Software develops and publishes simulation experiences worldwide. Beyond Farming Simulator, it is strengthening its position in the genre with Project Motor Racing and a global network of partners and industry ties.

About Farming Simulator
With more than 40 million copies of the main series sold worldwide since 2008, the Farming Simulator franchise is leading in its genre. Available on all major platforms, the series features hundreds of authentic machines from renowned brands and offers compelling agricultural simulation with relaxing, family-friendly gameplay. It’s based on the powerful GIANTS Engine – built in-house to provide realistic physics, high-fidelity graphics, dynamic systems and extensive modding support.

© 2026 Published and developed by GIANTS Software GmbH. Farming Simulator, GIANTS Software and its logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of GIANTS Software GmbH. All manufacturers, vehicles, machines, equipment, names, brands, and associated imagery featured in this game in some cases include trademarks and/or copyrighted materials of their respective owners. The vehicles, machines, and equipment in this game may be different from the actual ones in shapes, colors, and performance. All other names, trademarks and logos are property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

Collect K-Pop Stars in Match-3 Puzzler SMiniz, Out Today on iOS and Android

Collect K-Pop Stars in Match-3 Puzzler SMiniz, Out Today on iOS and Android

Seongnam, South KoreaFebruary 26, 2026 | Kakao Games, in collaboration with global entertainment brand SM Entertainment, has announced the global launch of its new K-pop collection SMiniz today, featuring stars from iconic K-pop groups NCT, RIIZE, and aespa.

Available today on iOS and Android mobile devices, SMiniz is a colourful and casual match-3 puzzle game featuring chibi character versions of K-pop artists under the SM Entertainment brand, adorably known as ‘Miniz’. Players will progress through puzzles alongside their favorite Miniz, with launch day support for Korean, English, Japanese, Traditional Chinese, and Simplified Chinese languages.

Following today’s global launch, players will be able to participate in an in-game event to obtain previously unreleased Special Artist Photocards for their favourite K-pop star. Additionally, until 10 March 2026, users who download the game and complete missions will have the opportunity to receive SMiniz merchandise through a special offline event at the SM Kwangya Store.

SMiniz Features:

  • Casual match-3 puzzling featuring mini character versions inspired by SM Entertainment artists. 
  • Solve puzzles alongside their favourite stars in an accessible and easy to enjoy gameplay experience.
  • A celebration of K-pop fandom culture with collectible photocards and fan zone spaces.
  • Customisable costumes inspired by K-pop artists that bring the groups to life within the game.

Anticipation has been building for the launch of SMiniz, with pre-launch promotional activities such as a roulette giveaway event featuring Photocard sets, as well as online and offline promotions linked to the recent SMTOWN concert in Fukuoka. Kakao also ran a closed beta test in 2025, which received positive feedback.

Developed as an in-house title targeting a global fanbase, Kakao Games is handling global publishing and live service operations, while METABORA is responsible for development, and SM Entertainment provides the IP of its affiliated artists.

SMiniz is available now on iOS and Android. More information can be found on the official website.

About Kakao Games Corp.

Kakao Games (CEO Sang-Woo Han) is the gaming subsidiary of Kakao, specializing in both publishing and development across a wide range of genres, from casual to hardcore titles on PC and mobile. Since its KOSDAQ listing in September 2020, Kakao Games has successfully developed and launched popular titles such as Odin: Valhalla Rising, Uma Musume Pretty Derby, Eversoul, Guardian Tales, and Kakao Battlegrounds, with multiple global releases on the horizon. Kakao Games remains committed to expanding its portfolio and exploring new opportunities in the evolving gaming landscape.