Ever have that moment when you see a headline and do a double-take? That was me this morning, coffee in hand, when I read that Starfield is finally up for preorder on the PlayStation 5. I almost spilled my brew. We’ve waited ages to see if there’d be a console crossover, and here it is, like a plot twist no one saw coming. So, let’s look into today’s roundup and catch up on the 12 stories that matter. Starfield may have grabbed the spotlight, but there’s plenty more you need to know. Let’s get into it.
Starfield For PlayStation 5 Is Now Available to Preorder
Over on the PS5 side of things, Starfield is finally ready for lift-off, with preorders now live for its April 7 release. Bethesda’s space RPG is giving PlayStation fans a couple of choices here: the Standard Edition at $50 or the Premium Edition at $70, which comes with all the DLC and digital goodies you might want. But here’s the kicker: you need an internet connection for everything, even the base game. A bit of a bummer, but we’re used to it by now, right? As a preorder bonus, both editions throw in the Old Mars Skin Pack, featuring a Laser Cutter, Deep Mining Helmet, and Deep Mining Pack. Fancy!
Starfield’s been out for a while now on Xbox and PC, and it’s had its share of updates. The upcoming PS5 version is launching alongside its biggest update yet, reportedly adding new features and systems for a richer experience. Let’s hope it spices things up because, according to GameSpot, Starfield on launch was more about quantity than quality. Personally, I’m hoping the PS5 version offers more depth to all that galaxy-hopping. But hey, if you’re a fan of Bethesda’s formula with a sci-fi twist, this might just be what you’re looking for.
Read the full article on GameSpot
The New Mode Isn’t The Most Important Thing In Mario Kart World’s New Patch
Over on the PC side, we might be busy with performance tweaks and mouse DPI settings, but let’s not overlook some juicy console updates. Mario Kart World just dropped a new patch for the Switch 2. While everyone’s buzzing about the new mode, there’s something way more interesting in the details: those pesky blue shells are finally getting a nerf. Praise the gaming gods.
Kotaku reports that the infamous Spiny Shell, known for ruining many a first-place run, is getting toned down. This means no more crossing your fingers and praying it misses you at the finish line. Instead, it’s now less frequent and a tad slower, making it less of a soul-crushing experience. If there’s anything that could make Mario Kart’s chaotic races a bit more bearable, it’s fewer blue shells.
Sure, adding a new mode is cool, but let’s be real, we’ve all had enough of getting blue-shelled into oblivion right before victory. This change is a game-changer for everyone who’s ever led a race only to be blindsided at the last second. Now that’s worth celebrating with a victory lap or two. Maybe we’ll finally see more balanced races, where skill matters as much as luck.
Read the full article on Kotaku
Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered patch sorts questionable outfit textures after fans dubbed Challenge Mode “Slop Raider”
Over on the PC side, Aspyr heard our cries and released a patch for the Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered collection. If you’ve been playing the Challenge Mode and thought the outfit textures looked like someone slapped on some digital mud, you’re not alone. Fans immediately dubbed it “Slop Raider”, which, let’s be honest, is hilariously accurate. According to Eurogamer, the patch targets these questionable textures to bring Lara’s wardrobe up to snuff. Are we getting a fashion show worthy of Paris? Probably not. But at least Lara won’t look like she’s been rolling out of bed for her latest adventure. It’s always nice to see developers actually listening to feedback instead of pretending everything’s fine. So, maybe we can put the “Slop Raider” jokes to rest? Or at least save them for the next unexpected graphical blunder. Here’s hoping this patch is just one step towards keeping our nostalgia intact in these remastered classics.
Read the full article on Eurogamer
The latest Nvidia App beta update adds DLSS 4.5 Dynamic Multi Frame Generation support and an intriguing Auto Shader Compilation feature to the green team suite
On the other side of the industry, Nvidia’s latest App beta update is here with some tasty new goodies for RTX 50-series owners. According to PC Gamer, the update brings DLSS 4.5 Dynamic Multi Frame Generation to the table. This tech is all about dynamically adjusting AI-generated frames to hit a target frame rate, aiming to keep your gameplay as smooth as butter while cranking up the FPS.
The most eyebrow-raising part? It can now generate up to six times the frames, compared to four from the previous versions. Our buddy Nick has been nerding out with this tech and reports it’s pretty impressive. That said, it’ll be interesting to see how this shakes up the playing field for those of us still clinging to older RTX cards. If you’re a frame rate fanatic, this might be a reason to start eyeing that RTX 50-series upgrade.
Read the full article on PC Gamer
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie review: a chaotic, cameo-filled sequel
If you’re a Nintendo person, the new Super Mario Galaxy Movie might be worth your time, even if just for the stars (pun intended). Polygon mentions that the film is a wild ride filled with cameos and chaos. With Chris Pratt as Mario, Brie Larson as Princess Peach, and Jack Black back as Bowser, it’s a powerhouse of talent that gives life to this cosmic sequel. It’s essentially a love letter to fans, packed with nods to the games. But let’s be real, the real treat is seeing our favorite plumber and his crew exploring the universe. It’s the kind of movie you watch for the sheer fun of it, not for a new plot. After all, it’s Mario, not Shakespeare.
Read the full article on Polygon
Upcoming Video Game Release Dates Schedule, April 2026 and Beyond
In other news, April 2026 is shaping up to be a fantastic month for gamers across all platforms. We’re talking PS5, Switch 2, Xbox, and PC, everyone’s getting some love. According to VGC, this spring lineup is going to test both our wallets and our patience. February and March have already kept us busy with heavy hitters like Resident Evil Requiem, Nioh 3, and the much-anticipated Marathon, but April’s list is just as packed. Whether you’re into catching them all in Pokémon Pokopia or diving into Monster Hunter Stories 3, make sure to schedule some gaming time. If there’s ever been a time to justify a sick day, this might just be it. Gear up, because the gaming gods are delivering, and we don’t want to miss it.
The Best April Fools’ Day Gaming Jokes Of 2026 (So Far)
Over on the PC side, April Fools’ Day is bringing all sorts of shenanigans, and we love seeing what developers concoct each year. PUBG: Battlegrounds is putting you in the shoes, or rather, the inanimate objects, of a prop for their limited-time “Prop Hunt” mode. It’s a game of hide-and-seek with a hilarious twist. Just don’t get too comfortable as a chair, or you might get blasted to bits.
Meanwhile, Pokemon Pokopia is channeling its inner Family Guy with a wacky waving inflatable arm flailing tube Sudowoodo. It’s more of a decorative piece than a battle-ready monster, but it’s sure to confuse your neighbors or keep grandma company.
And let’s not forget PowerWash Simulator, which decided that dirt could be a love interest in “Date the Dirt.” It’s a grime-fighting romance we didn’t know we needed. GameSpot has got the full lowdown on these pranks, but let’s just say, we’re here for the laughs.
Read the full article on GameSpot
US patent office revokes Nintendo’s patent on summoning characters to make them battle
Not to be outdone by the absurdity in gaming patents, the US Patent Office decided to revoke Nintendo’s patent on summoning characters to battle. You know, that thing countless games have been doing forever? Last year, Nintendo snagged a patent for basically what Pokémon trainers do on a daily basis. Summon your monster, let it fight, and hope for a win.
Two months after granting the patent, USPTO director John A Squires did something he hadn’t done in over a decade. He personally ordered a re-examination. This hints at just how questionable this patent was. Does this mean we might see less patent trolling in the gaming world? Let’s not hold our breath. Thanks to VGC for illuminating this delightful bit of legal drama.
Marathon review
On the other side of the industry, Eurogamer gives us a taste of Marathon, an extraction shooter that seems to have taken the gloves off. If Arc Raiders had a touch of friendliness, Marathon is its cold-hearted sibling. Welcome to Tau Ceti IV, where “Don’t shoot!” is more likely to get you a laugh than a reprieve. If you’re wandering among the megastructures, you’d better be ready to turn every second into a fight for survival. It seems Bungie didn’t come here to make friends, they came to remind us just how brutal these games can be. If you’re a seasoned player, you’re probably grinning at this ruthless return to form.
Read the full article on Eurogamer
5 new Xbox games to play in April 2026
Not to be outdone, Xbox Series X is getting some love this April with a handful of new titles to dive into. Sure, we’re all waiting for Forza Horizon 6 to drop in May, but this month has some decent offerings too. You can jump back into one of last year’s hits or try your hand at, wait for it, pottery brawls. Yes, you read that right. Polygon reports that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re into last year’s blockbusters or looking for quirky new experiences. Xbox is keeping us entertained until the big guns arrive.
Read the full article on Polygon
Minecraft Sulfur Cube: Everything you need to know about the game’s newest multifunctional mob
Shifting gears, Minecraft’s Chaos Cubed update has introduced the Sulfur Cube, and I’m here for it. This new addition isn’t just any mob. It’s the star of the show, living in the eerie beauty of the upcoming Sulfur Cave biome. Our blocky world was due for a shake-up, and the Sulfur Cube is just the oddball we needed. Picture a cube that looks like it could explode at any moment, kind of like a Creeper with a little more restraint.
PC Gamer shares that this little guy comes with unique qualities and quirks. It’s perfect for players itching to experiment with Minecraft’s mechanics. Between us, I’m already planning my next build around these newcomers. Can’t wait to see how these sulfurous critters will light up our game worlds.
Read the full article on PC Gamer
All limited-time events in Pokopia
Shifting gears, let’s talk about Pokopia’s ever-enticing limited-time events. Recently, the devs have been spicing things up with a variety of quirky events, like the “More Spores for Hoppip,” which introduced the grassy trio of Hoppip, Skiploom, and Jumpluff to the game. But just when you thought things couldn’t get any weirder, they’re teaming up with IKEA. Yes, that IKEA. From April 1 to May 10, you can explore a new Cloud Island filled with IKEA-inspired homes, picking up Pokémon-themed furniture and goodies both in-game and in real life. And for a bit of April Fools’ fun, be ready to snag an Inflatable Sudowoodo by completing some cheeky quizzes on April 1. Destructoid gives us the scoop on all these whimsical details. It’s just the kind of delightful chaos we didn’t know we needed.
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