Hyundai, the South Korean automaker, unveils the INTEROID EV, an electric vehicle inspired by video games. This funky, youthful, and muscular car features a pixelated design, prominent in its headlights and overall aesthetic, coupled with a performance-focused setup. Hyundai released a teaser video and images to build anticipation ahead of the full reveal at next month's Seoul Mobility Show. Based on the affordable INSTER electric sub-compact, the INTEROID boasts playful exterior details such as flared wheels with air vents, an aggressive rear spoiler, and a distinctive roof scoop, setting it apart as a unique addition to the EV market. Image Credit: Hyundai.

The upcoming week features a lineup of video games scheduled for release, as per ign.com, though dates may change. Notable among these is "Post Trauma," an adventure and horror genre game, set to launch on platforms including Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC. This abstract highlights the anticipated release, focusing on the diverse gaming options expected to be available across multiple gaming systems, providing gamers with new experiences in various genres. Always check official sources for the most current release information.

Masahiro Sakurai, creator of Smash Bros and Kirby, was honored with a lifetime achievement award at Japan's Association of Media in Digital (AMD) Awards. During his acceptance speech, Sakurai revealed that he freely shared his game design knowledge on YouTube to help other developers enhance players' lives. Despite recognizing the lesser societal impact of game development compared to professions like medicine, Sakurai believes well-designed games can positively "buff" people's lives. He chose to give away his trade secrets for free, aiming to inspire others to create enjoyable games. This month, Sakurai also received the Art Encouragement Prize for New Artists from Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs, specifically acknowledging his educational YouTube content, which has had international influence.

In 2025, gaming is set to dominate with numerous expenses on titles, accessories, and consoles. To ease the financial burden, it's wise to look out for sales. Amazon's Big Spring Sale, occurring from March 25 to 31, offers significant discounts on gaming products alongside spring essentials. This sale includes deals on PlayStation and Xbox games, hardware, headsets, and accessories, as well as Nintendo Switch games and hardware. With price cuts across consoles, controllers, and memory cards, gamers can find substantial savings. For more curated deals, subscribe to the Mashable Deals newsletter, ensuring you stay updated on the best gaming bargains.

The author reflects on revisiting the classic game Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, part of the TMNT Cowabunga Collection on PS4. Initially skeptical about replaying a challenging retro game amidst modern gaming conveniences, they rediscover its demanding gameplay and nostalgic charm. Despite unforgiving mechanics and clunky controls, perseverance and strategies like "hot swapping" turtles and utilizing the rerelease's rewind feature help progress. The game evokes cherished memories and forces a slower, more deliberate playstyle compared to today’s fast-paced titles. Embracing its quirks, including blocky graphics and tough levels, reignites appreciation for the patience and dedication required in past gaming eras. Though only halfway through, the author remains committed to completing this rewarding throwback experience.

Masahiro Sakurai, the creator of the Super Smash Bros. series, reflects on his career and offers advice to game developers during his acceptance speech for the Lifetime Achievement Award at Japan's digital content awards. Despite feeling unworthy compared to legendary figures like Shigeru Miyamoto, Sakurai emphasizes the uplifting impact of video games on players' lives. He advocates that Japanese developers should focus on their passions and unique styles rather than conforming to global trends, as overseas fans appreciate Japan’s distinct charm. On his YouTube channel, Masahiro Sakurai on Creating Games, he freely shares his insights to inspire others, encouraging creators to pursue their own paths and refine their work authentically.

In a GDC interview, former Bethesda developer Nate Purkeypile discussed the creative freedom and flexible development approach behind Skyrim. As a Senior World Artist and Lighting Artist, he highlighted how the team's autonomy led to iconic features, such as the unscheduled creation of Blackreach and the enhancement of werewolves from basic concepts to visually stunning elements. This non-restrictive environment encouraged side-projects and innovations, steering clear of rigid "design by committee" practices. Purkeypile credits this flexibility for many beloved aspects of the game. Skyrim, released in 2011, remains popular, inspiring artists like Leo Torres, who recreates its locations in 3D.

Activision's user research workers have successfully voted to unionize under the Communications Workers of America (CWA), marking the first group of video game user researchers to form a union. Microsoft, which owns Activision, has recognized the union. This move aligns with over 2,000 workers at Microsoft-owned studios organizing under a neutrality agreement with CWA. The union aims to secure improvements such as higher wages, job security, and transparency in promotions, especially crucial amid industry-wide layoffs. Union members emphasize the importance of creating a sustainable and fair industry environment. This development comes after criticism of former Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick’s dismissal of harassment claims as "fake."

The Nintendo Direct event on March 27, 2025, showcased upcoming games for the Nintendo Switch, without revealing details about the anticipated Switch 2, planned for release in 2025. Highlights included "Witchbrook," a life-sim RPG set in a magical city, releasing in Winter 2025; "Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream," reviving the social sim series for 2026; and "Pokémon Legends: Z-A," part of the ninth generation, set in a revamped Lumiose City. Other notable announcements were "Raidou Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army," available now, and "Saga Frontier 2: Remaster." A variety of other titles, including remakes and new games like "Disney Villains Cursed Café" and "Marvel: Cosmic Invasion," were also unveiled for future releases across multiple platforms.

Chinese tech giant Tencent is investing €1.2 billion in a new Ubisoft subsidiary, valuing it at approximately €4 billion. This move aims to strengthen Ubisoft's financial position as the French gaming company faces declining revenues and share prices. The subsidiary will manage top franchises like Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry, with Tencent owning 25% and Ubisoft retaining control of the rest. Yves Guillemot, Ubisoft’s CEO, sees this as a transformative step towards creating sustainable games. Despite recent setbacks, including sexual harassment allegations and delayed game releases, Ubisoft plans to focus on other franchises and develop new titles. The deal, expected to close by year-end, involves an exclusive license for Ubisoft’s key games and will help reduce its debt.

"The Alters" is a unique sci-fi survival game developed by 11 Bit Studios, set to release in 2025 for PC via Steam, Xbox Series X|S, and PS5. Players take on the role of Jan, a colonist stranded on a hostile alien planet after a crash landing. To survive, Jan must clone himself using Rapidium crystals and a quantum computer, creating a workforce with diverse personalities and skills. The game emphasizes base-building, resource management, and emotional stability of the clones. Recent Expedition Logs videos highlight the game's distinctiveness and the complexities of managing multiple versions of oneself. With its innovative concept, "The Alters" promises an engaging experience beyond traditional survival games.

Lies of P, a critically acclaimed Soulslike game, reimagines the Pinocchio story with surprising post-credits revelations, notably featuring Dorothy Gale from *The Wizard of Oz*. Director Ji-won Choi confirmed that the upcoming Overture expansion, described as a "dramatic prequel," will not elaborate on this surprise. Instead, it focuses on the city of Krat's final days, offering new insights into the game's world. Choi encourages players to replay Lies of P to discover hidden hints and unresolved ideas that will be addressed in the expansion. Details about a planned sequel remain undisclosed, keeping fans eagerly anticipating future announcements.