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Featured image for February 18, 2026: Konami Quietly Removes Original Versions & Avowed PS5 Launch

February 18, 2026: Konami Quietly Removes Original Versions & Avowed PS5 Launch

Fred
Fred · · 6 min read

Today’s Gaming News Roundup Wednesdays always sneak up on us, don’t they? Just when you think you’ve got the weekly chaos under control, Konami pulls a stunt like quietly removing Metal Gear Solid 4 and Peace Walker from digital shelves. Honestly, I’m feeling a mix of nostalgia and frustration over this move. But let’s not dive down that rabbit hole too quickly. We’ve got news about Avowed’s exciting new game modes and some drama with a Pokémon store. Konami Quietly Removes Original Versions of Metal Gear Solid 4 and Peace Walker From Sale After Collection Vol. 2 Announcement So, Konami has yanked Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots and Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker from digital stores right after announcing Collection Vol. 2. Are they clearing the decks for remastered versions? Feels a bit sketchy, right? It’s like the originals have gone into stealth mode. Anyone else find this timing super intriguing? Read more at IGN Pokémon Go’s Battle League Quirks Set for Fixes by 2026 Niantic is shaking things up for Pokémon Go’s PvP battles, and I’m here for it! They’re aiming to fix the Go Battle League’s random online play issues by 2026. We’ve noticed they’re reworking the battle mechanics to be smoother and more predictable. Honestly, it’s about time, right? This overhaul is all about…

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FAQ

Why did Konami remove Metal Gear Solid 4 and Peace Walker from digital stores?
Konami pulled Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots and Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker from digital shelves right after announcing Collection Vol. 2, which suggests they may be clearing the decks for remastered versions. The timing definitely feels intentional, though Konami hasn't officially confirmed their reasoning.
When is Screamer releasing and what platforms will it be on?
Screamer, the anime-inspired narrative racer developed by Milestone S.r.l., drops on March 26, 2026, and is coming to PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The game follows a trio racing team seeking revenge on another racer named Gabriel.
What new features did Avowed get with its PS5 launch and Anniversary Update?
Avowed's Anniversary Update introduced New Game+, where you can carry over your gear to a new save and face tougher enemies, plus a photo mode to capture those epic moments. The update also added new achievements and trophies, along with three new playable character races beyond humans and elves.
What improvements is Niantic making to Pokémon Go's Battle League?
Niantic is overhauling Pokémon Go's PvP system by 2026, focusing on fixing random online play issues, unresponsive tap inputs, and damage registration errors. They've also promised more stable server connections to reduce lag and improved matchmaking to pair you with similarly-skilled opponents.
Why is Nintendo asking the Pokémon Store to change its name?
Nintendo asked the Pokémon Store in Tokyo to change its name from Poké Court to Trainer Court to avoid confusion with official Pokémon branding. The store will now host workshops on how to train Pokémon without needing an official league badge.

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Fred
Fred LEVEL 1

Fred has been gaming since his dad brought home a recycled PC from work and installed Hugo's House of Horrors as a toddler. He continues to play games almost daily across PC, console and mobile and may have a slightly addictive personality.

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