Gaming

‘Off The Grid’ Brings Blockchain Gaming to Reality

Off The Grid, a revolutionary blockchain-powered battle royale game, is set to redefine the genre through its unique combination of PvP skirmishes, PvE missions, and a dystopian storyline. Developed by Gunzilla Games in collaboration with Neill Blomkamp (director of “District 9” and “Chappie”), this free-to-play shooter has already garnered significant attention since its early access release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC via the Epic Games Store.

The game quickly topped the Epic Games Store’s free-to-play charts and amassed a strong following on Twitch, with fans captivated by its immersive world. What sets Off The Grid apart isn’t just its fast-paced, dystopian action, but also its blockchain backbone, offering players the potential to earn, mint, and trade NFTs and use an upcoming crypto token called GUN.

Everything We Know So Far About Project 007: The New James Bond Game

A New Kind of Battle Royale

At its core, Off The Grid follows a traditional battle royale setup where players, in teams of three, drop onto a massive city map and fight for survival. However, the game differentiates itself as an “Extraction Royale,” where players can find loot boxes that unlock cosmetic items, weapons, and skills if extracted or held to victory. This fusion of battle royale and extraction shooter mechanics injects an added layer of strategy.

Players can engage in PvP battles against other trios while simultaneously completing PvE storyline missions on the same map, creating a dynamic and unpredictable experience. Off The Grid promises to bring more than just gameplay, though, boasting 60 hours of narrative-driven content—a rarity in the battle royale genre. This deep narrative structure is tied into cinematics that bookend matches, further immersing players in the game’s rich world.

Blockchain and NFTs: Where Crypto Meets Gaming

While Off The Grid is still in early access, and crypto integration isn’t yet obvious in the gameplay, the blockchain elements are being woven into the game behind the scenes. Built on Avalanche’s GUNZ subnet, the game plans to introduce its own GUN token, which will be used for transactions within the game’s ecosystem.

At present, the GUNZ network is in testnet, but early activity is promising, with millions of wallets created in just the first week and an equal number of daily transactions recorded. Once the GUN token goes live on mainnet, players will be able to mint in-game items as NFTs, unlocking the ability to trade and sell their earned items on external marketplaces.

Gunzilla Games has also designed the GUNZ network with plans to expand its use beyond just Off The Grid, aiming to allow other developers to adopt the same tech in future games. The integration of crypto opens up new economic possibilities, allowing players to turn their gaming achievements into real-world value.

How to Play and Get Started

Getting into Off The Grid is simple. The game is available for early access on PS5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC via the Epic Games Store. Being a free-to-play game, all you need to do is download it on your platform of choice, boot it up, and jump into your first match. The current version of the game includes just one mode—Extraction Royale—and a single map, but future updates are expected to bring more modes and additional content.

For players familiar with battle royale games like Fortnite or Apex Legends, the core mechanics will feel familiar, though the addition of PvE missions and loot extraction brings new elements to the genre. Guides and resources are already available online to help new players get acquainted with the game’s unique mechanics.

Crypto Plans on the Horizon

While Off The Grid doesn’t currently feature full crypto functionality, it’s clear that blockchain and NFTs are at the heart of its long-term vision. The game is built on Avalanche’s GUNZ network, and the GUN token will serve as the primary currency for purchasing and trading in-game assets. Right now, GUN operates as an in-game currency, earned by completing missions and PvE objectives, but once the mainnet is live, it will open up possibilities for real-world trading and marketplace interactions.

Gunzilla Games has also emphasized that items players earn in-game can be minted as NFTs, making them truly unique and tradable across platforms. The ability to own and trade in-game assets in a decentralized manner offers a fresh take on how players interact with their virtual items and could attract both mainstream gamers and crypto enthusiasts alike.

The game has already started racking up impressive numbers on the GUNZ testnet, and the early activity suggests that blockchain gaming may finally be making a splash in the mainstream. Millions of daily transactions and wallets are evidence of this game’s potential impact.

Full Release and Future Expectations

There’s no official word yet on when Off The Grid will move out of early access and into full release, but early indications suggest that the game is on the right track. Gunzilla Games has invested heavily in the launch, even recruiting major streamers like Tyler “Ninja” Blevins and Seth “Scump” Abner to play the game for their audiences during the launch week. This has helped create significant buzz around the title, and its continued growth on platforms like Twitch shows that it’s resonating with players.

The real test for Off The Grid will come when its crypto and NFT elements are fully integrated. Blockchain games have struggled to gain traction with mainstream audiences in the past, but Off The Grid could be the game that changes that. Its early success proves that it has the gameplay foundation to keep players engaged, and if the NFT and crypto elements are well-implemented, they could provide a seamless way for players to earn real-world value through gaming.

Conclusion

Off The Grid is a game-changer, not just in the battle royale genre, but in the broader gaming landscape. By blending familiar battle royale mechanics with PvE missions, a rich narrative, and blockchain technology, it has already managed to stand out from the crowd. With the full release still to come, and NFT minting and crypto transactions on the horizon, Off The Grid could be the first blockchain game to capture the hearts of mainstream gamers.

Whether you’re in it for the action, the narrative, or the chance to earn and trade unique items, Off The Grid is a game worth watching—and playing.

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Gaming

Nintendo Switch 2: The Questions That Need Answering

The Legendary console is back once again.

Nintendo has officially announced the long-awaited Switch 2, marking its first new console release since 2017. However, the Japanese gaming giant has maintained its characteristically tight-lipped approach, leaving fans with more questions than answers.

Nintendo's new console is highly anticipated — Nintendo’s new console is highly anticipated

With an official Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2, 2025, expectations are mounting. Will the Switch 2 be the next gaming revolution, or is Nintendo playing it too safe? Here’s a deep dive into what we know so far—and the biggest questions still left unanswered.

New graphics, new games are scheduled for an April 2025 release

1. Nintendo’s Silent Strategy: What’s the Plan?

Nintendo is no stranger to secrecy, often choosing to control its own narrative rather than engaging with traditional industry hype cycles. Instead of announcing its console at major gaming events like E3 or the Tokyo Game Show, Nintendo has leaned on its own platforms, mainly through Nintendo Direct broadcasts.

While this approach has served the company well in the past, it has also backfired—particularly when leaks force Nintendo’s hand into making premature announcements. The Switch 2’s unveiling on January 16, 2024, may have been one such example. With almost three months between the first reveal and any real technical details, fans are left wondering: Why the delay in revealing key specs?

The release has had minimal details released

Is Nintendo hiding something groundbreaking—or something underwhelming?

What will set the Switch 2 apart in a rapidly evolving gaming industry?

2. What Market Gap is the Switch 2 Trying to Fill?

The original Nintendo Switch was a game-changer when it launched in 2017, offering a hybrid console-handheld experience. This unique feature helped it sell over 146 million units, making it the third best-selling console of all time.

Rumours are flying around the gaming world

However, the gaming landscape of 2025 is vastly different. The rise of powerful handheld gaming PCs—such as the Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, and Lenovo Legion Go—has blurred the line between consoles and portable gaming devices. Meanwhile, cloud gaming and smartphone gaming continue to dominate the casual gaming market.

This raises an important question:
What unique role will the Switch 2 play in this new gaming era?

If Nintendo’s next-gen console lacks significant technical upgrades, it risks being outclassed by competitors that offer superior power, graphical fidelity, and game libraries.

A new Mario Kart game has also been announced for the Nintendo Switch 2 — A new Mario Kart game has also been announced

3. Is Nintendo Playing It Too Safe?

One of the biggest concerns surrounding the Switch 2 is whether Nintendo is innovating enough.

The company has a history of bold, industry-defining moves:

The Wii (2006) introduced motion controls, selling over 101 million units and forcing competitors to create similar motion-based gaming experiences.

The Switch (2017) reinvented hybrid gaming, making portable AAA gaming a reality.

Yet, leaks about the Switch 2 suggest that Nintendo might not be taking any radical leaps this time. Instead, it could just be a more powerful version of the original Switch—a move that could hurt its long-term success.

Nintendo has fallen into this trap before. After the groundbreaking Wii, it released the Wii U (2012)—a mild iteration that failed to capture market excitement, selling just 13 million units before being discontinued.

Could the Switch 2 be repeating this mistake?

4. The Elephant in the Room: Why Should You Buy a Switch 2?

If the Switch 2 isn’t offering groundbreaking new technology, then why should gamers invest in it?

The answer, as always, lies in Nintendo’s exclusive game library.

Unlike competitors like Microsoft and Sony, Nintendo has no interest in making its games available on other platforms. With franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon, the company has leveraged its intellectual property to drive console sales.

However, this strategy comes with two big risks:

It limits Nintendo’s audience—while Sony and Microsoft expand by offering their games on PC and other platforms, Nintendo remains exclusive.
It alienates potential buyers—If competing handheld consoles can play more games (including third-party Nintendo-like experiences), consumers may opt for a more powerful, multi-purpose device over the Switch 2.

Nintendo’s aggressive stance on exclusivity and legal action against emulators makes it clear: the only way to play new Nintendo games will be on Nintendo’s own hardware.

But is that enough to convince gamers to upgrade?

5. The Missing ‘Nintendo Magic’—Where’s the Innovation?

One of the biggest concerns about the Switch 2 is whether it captures Nintendo’s legendary creativity.

The GameCube (2001), while beloved, was a traditional console and got overshadowed by the PlayStation 2 and Xbox.
Nintendo responded with the Wii (2006), introducing motion gaming, which changed the industry.
The failure of the Wii U (2012) forced Nintendo to reinvent itself again, leading to the Switch (2017).

But what about the Switch 2?

Expectations are high for the new portable console

Is it a true next-gen leap, or just an upgraded Switch?
Will it introduce any new gameplay innovations?
Does it offer anything unique that other gaming devices don’t?

Rumours suggest that the Switch 2’s controllers may include motion-based, point-and-click functionality, but this is hardly revolutionary in 2025.

Without a bold, new feature, Nintendo risks launching a console that is too familiar—and that could lead to another Wii U situation.

The new Nintendo Switch 2 controllers will have a new, tactile feel to them — The new controllers will have a new, tactile feel to them

Final Thoughts: Is Nintendo Taking a Gamble?

With the Switch 2’s full reveal set for April 2, 2025, all eyes are on Nintendo to prove that this new console is more than just an iterative upgrade.

While Nintendo has survived and thrived by following its own path, the gaming industry is changing. The Switch 2 needs to offer something special—something beyond just a higher resolution screen and better battery life.

If Nintendo plays it too safe, the Switch 2 could face stiff competition from:

Handheld gaming PCs like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally, which offer more power and game selection.
Cloud gaming services, which provide instant access to high-end games without expensive hardware.
The mobile gaming boom, which continues to attract millions of casual players.

But if Nintendo delivers something truly unique, the Switch 2 could cement its place as the must-have gaming device of the decade.

What time is the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct stream — The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct stream will air live in April.

Will the Switch 2 be a success or a missed opportunity?

We’ll find out when Nintendo finally breaks its silence on April 2.

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Gaming

Ubisoft+ Classics Arrives on Blacknut Cloud Gaming Platform

The cloud gaming revolution continues as Blacknut announces the integration of Ubisoft+ Classics into its service starting 17th January 2025. This development is set to offer gamers an exciting opportunity to access a curated selection of Ubisoft’s iconic back-catalogue titles through the convenience of cloud gaming. As the Ubisoft+ Classics Arrives on Blacknut, we take a look at how this will play out.

What is Ubisoft+ Classics?

Ubisoft+ is the game publisher’s subscription service, designed to deliver an extensive library of games across two tiers: Classics and Premium. The Classics tier focuses on providing players with a handpicked selection of beloved titles from Ubisoft’s history. Highlights include fan-favourites like Far Cry 5 and Tom Clancy’s The Division. These games represent the best of Ubisoft’s innovation and storytelling, appealing to both long-time fans and new players alike.

How to Access Ubisoft+ Classics on Blacknut

Starting from January 17th, 2025, both new and existing Blacknut subscribers can access Ubisoft+ Classics via:

An Additional Subscription: Blacknut users can add Ubisoft+ Classics to their existing subscriptions.

Account Syncing: Gamers who already have a Ubisoft+ Classics subscription can link it to their Blacknut accounts for seamless integration.

This collaboration marks a major step in Blacknut’s mission to expand its game library and offer unparalleled accessibility to high-quality gaming experiences.

The Partnership and Its Milestones

The partnership between Ubisoft and Blacknut was initially announced in August 2024, setting the stage for this significant integration. Since then, both companies have worked towards creating a seamless experience for their global player base.

“The Ubisoft-Blacknut partnership has already seen some impressive milestones, but the arrival of Ubisoft+, beginning with Ubisoft+ Classics, opens a new chapter for our players across the globe,” said Blacknut CEO Olivier Avaro. “We’re thrilled to be at the forefront of bringing this level of flexibility, quality, and access to our players worldwide across all our countries and partners thanks to the reach of our infrastructure and breadth of devices.”

Ubisoft’s Expanding Cloud Gaming Reach

This integration is part of a broader strategy by Ubisoft to enhance its presence in the cloud gaming space. Notably, Ubisoft holds the cloud rights to current and future Activision Blizzard titles for the next 15 years, following Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard. This unique position underscores Ubisoft’s commitment to shaping the future of gaming by making high-quality titles accessible to players anywhere, anytime.

What This Means for Gamers

The addition of Ubisoft+ Classics to Blacknut’s already robust service enhances the appeal of cloud gaming, offering:

Flexibility: Play top-tier games without the need for powerful hardware.

Accessibility: Enjoy gaming across multiple devices, from smart TVs to smartphones.
Variety: A growing library of diverse titles that cater to gamers of all preferences.

Blacknut’s infrastructure and partnerships make it an ideal platform for bringing Ubisoft’s renowned games to a global audience.

Why This Matters

As cloud gaming continues to grow, collaborations like the one between Ubisoft and Blacknut set new standards for what players can expect. By combining Ubisoft’s world-class game library with Blacknut’s accessible platform, this partnership is poised to redefine how games are experienced and enjoyed.

Ubisoft+ Classics Arrives on Blacknut

With Ubisoft+ Classics arriving on 17th January 2025, the future of gaming looks brighter than ever. Prepare to dive into some of Ubisoft’s most iconic adventures and experience gaming without limits.

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Gaming

Everything We Know So Far About Project 007: The New James Bond Game

Project 007, the much-anticipated James Bond game from IO Interactive, the renowned developer behind the Hitman series, promises to bring an entirely fresh take on the iconic British spy. While details remain tightly held, a few significant insights have emerged, hinting at what fans can expect from this game.

A Fresh Storyline: Bond’s Origin Tale

Unlike previous James Bond games, Project 007 won’t rely on established storylines from films or novels. Instead, IO Interactive has confirmed that this game will present an original origin story for Bond, adding a new chapter to the spy’s backstory while crafting a character that is independent of the Bond actors seen on screen. According to Studio Director Hakan Abrak, Project 007 will feature “a completely original” James Bond, giving IO Interactive creative freedom to shape their version of the character without borrowing the image of Sean Connery, Daniel Craig, or any other actor associated with the role.

This bold move allows IO Interactive to tap into their strengths in storytelling and character development, potentially adding new layers to Bond’s character in a way that appeals to fans of both the original Hitman series and classic Bond movies.

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The New James Bond Game will feature a fresh origins story

Platform Speculation and Development Timeline

There is currently no release date for Project 007, as IO Interactive is still in the hiring phase for some key team roles. The delay hints that the game may still be years away from completion. Industry analysts speculate that the game will be designed for current-generation platforms, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Given the high-performance demands expected for a Bond title with immersive graphics and gameplay, it seems unlikely to appear on older consoles such as Xbox One or PlayStation 4.

There’s also a possibility for a cloud-based release on Nintendo Switch. IO Interactive previously experimented with cloud-based gaming through a Switch version of Hitman 3, which allowed them to expand their player base. Fans are curious to see if Project 007 might also get a similar treatment.

Gameplay: Stealth, Action, or Both?

Given IO Interactive’s expertise with stealth-action mechanics in the Hitman series, Project 007 could include a mix of stealth and action, immersing players in Bond’s world of espionage and tactical maneuvers. While official gameplay details are still under wraps, fans speculate that the game could either adopt a first-person perspective reminiscent of the beloved GoldenEye 007 on the N64 or a third-person view similar to Hitman.

Abrak has hinted that the game will be the “beginning of a trilogy,” suggesting a long-term character arc for Bond, in which players might witness the spy’s growth and development over multiple storylines. This trilogy concept opens up possibilities for an extensive, story-driven journey that will take Bond through complex missions, challenges, and character-defining moments.

The Teaser Trailer and Audiovisual Direction

The only official media released so far is a teaser trailer, which gives fans a stylised reimagining of the classic Bond opening sequence, with no gameplay footage yet shown. However, the teaser does promise that IO Interactive is dedicated to recreating Bond’s world in a unique way.

Recently, the team hired Dominic Vega as the project’s audio director. Vega, who previously worked on high-profile games like League of Legends and Ratchet and Clank: Nexus, is expected to create a distinctive, iconic soundscape that aligns with the legacy of Bond films. Vega expressed his excitement, noting that “there aren’t many sound palettes as iconic as the James Bond universe.” His approach could see the classic Bond sound and atmosphere reimagined to fit a digital landscape.

A Trilogy in the Making

During a recent interview, Abrak revealed that Project 007 could be just the beginning. He hinted at plans for a trilogy, stating that the game’s story could expand across three titles if all goes well. This ambitious project aims to build a lasting Bond universe within the gaming world, which would allow fans to follow Bond’s career across different missions and story arcs.

The trilogy concept also gives IO Interactive the opportunity to develop Bond as a character over time, potentially exploring his complex psychology and motivations. This approach would set Project 007 apart from many of its predecessors, making it more of a narrative-driven experience.

Project 007 has already generated massive anticipation among Bond fans and gamers alike, promising a fresh take on a classic character. With an original story, a modern platform release, and hints at stealth-action gameplay, this title could become one of the most memorable entries in James Bond’s gaming legacy.

For more on the latest developments surrounding Project 007, and other game news, visit What’s Hot in UAE.