Welcome to Urgent Fury

Released first on the PlayStation 3 and as a launch title for the PlayStation 4, Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag has remained a defining entry in the series for more than a decade. When we first explored the idea of bringing Edward Kenway’s journey to modern hardware, it quickly became clear that a traditional remaster wouldn’t be enough to do it justice. Play Video Instead, we rebuilt the game from the ground up on the latest version of the Anvil engine, modernizing nearly every system while preserving the spirit and identity of the original game. The result is an experience tailored for modern PlayStation hardware, with 60 FPS options, HDR support, Dolby Atmos, DualSense haptic feedback, and plenty of other improvements. You can find the list of graphics modes available at launch for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 5 Pro below. With all these new features and graphics options, we’ve been able to take full advantage of the PlayStation 5 hardware and deliver the best experience possible for players when the game launches on July 9. In this article, we’d like to take a closer look at some of the technologies that bring this new version of the Caribbean to life. A more reactive Caribbean with ray tracing In Resynced, our goal was to make the world feel more alive, more dynamic, and more responsive to the player’s journey. A major part of that comes from our updated lighting system, now fully dynamic and powered by hardware-accelerated ray tracing. Instead of relying on precomputed lighting, the world reacts in real time to changes in time of day, weather, and environment. Interiors respond more accurately to outdoor light sources, and weather conditions dramatically reshape the mood of the world. Ray-traced diffuse lighting allows light to bounce across surfaces, creating natural color bleeding and more consistent shading throughout environments. Meanwhile, Ray-Traced Specular Reflections enhance surfaces like wet wood, metal, and ocean spray, helping the Caribbean feel more physically grounded and reactive. To ensure a consistent experience, Ray-Traced Global Illumination is enabled in all graphics modes on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 5 Pro. Ray-Traced Specular Reflections are available in Balanced and Fidelity modes on PS5, and across all graphics modes on PS5 Pro. Continuous detail with micropolygon geometry One of the key visual improvements in Black Flag Resynced comes from how we handle geometry at scale. Traditional rendering pipelines rely on discrete levels of detail, switching between simplified models as the player moves through the world. While effective, this approach can sometimes introduce noticeable visual popping. With our Micropolygon geometry pipeline, we take a different approach. Instead of switching between fixed models, geometry is continuously refined based on distance, visibility, and camera perspective. This continuous level of detail is enabled by the PlayStation 5’s ultra-high-speed SSD, which allows Anvil to instantly stream, virtualize, and render tiny geometric clusters. This lets environments and assets scale smoothly from close-up detail to distant silhouettes without noticeable transitions. PlayStation 5 Pro enhancements The PlayStation 5 Pro includes all the features of the base PlayStation 5 but adds significantly more GPU power and enhanced ray‑tracing performance, giving additional headroom for higher fidelity and more stable performance. Across all graphics modes, players on PS5 Pro benefit from extended ray tracing support, including both Ray-Traced Global Illumination and Ray-Traced Specular Reflections. This enables richer lighting and reflection quality while maintaining higher performance targets across Performance, Balanced, and Fidelity modes. We’ve also expanded our strand-based hair on PS5 Pro. Rather than relying solely on traditional hair cards, the engine can simulate and render individual strands for more natural motion and response to wind. All of this allows us to get a very realistic hair render for our characters. On PS5 Pro, strand-based hair is available for Edward in all modes. In Fidelity mode, nearby crowd characters also benefit from strand simulation during gameplay, while cinematics use strand-based hair for all characters regardless of mode. In addition, Black Flag Resynced supports the latest version of PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR), helping deliver better image quality and improved reconstruction, reducing the visual gap between performance and fidelity modes. A living world driven by Anvil’s Atmos Black Flag Resynced simulates weather in real time through Atmos, the systemic weather simulation framework in our Anvil engine. Rather than treating weather as a set of isolated effects, Atmos continuously simulates variables such as temperature, humidity, wind, and vapor density. These systems evolve over time and influence one another, producing more coherent and dynamic weather. This same simulation extends into gameplay and environmental interaction. Wind affects not only cloud movement and storms at sea, but also vegetation, cloth, particles, sails, and character hair. The result is a world that doesn’t just look alive but feels physically connected as well. A richer ocean The ocean has always been at the heart of Black Flag, and modernizing its rendering was a key focus for this project. Black Flag Resynced introduces a fully modernized water system, based on a physically based rendering pipeline. New tessellation technique, volumetric foam generation, and dynamic bubble systems add more details to the water surface. These updates allow the sea to respond more naturally to wind conditions, weather, and ship movement. The sea now plays an even greater role in shaping both the mood and moment-to-moment experience of navigation and combat. Prepare for a more immersive experience When rebuilding Assassin’s Creed Black Flag on the latest version of Anvil, our goal wasn’t only to modernize technology. We wanted to strengthen the sense of immersion, adventure, and discovery that made Edward Kenway’s journey so memorable in the first place. PlayStation 5 hardware has given us the opportunity to push that experience further than ever before, from the way the world looks and sounds, to how it feels. Whether you’re returning to relive a favorite adventure, or setting sail with Edward for the first time, we’re excited to welcome you to the Caribbean when Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced launches on July 9 for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 5 Pro. View the full article

Yip yip. Pre-orders for Avatar Legends: The Fighting Game are now live on the PlayStation Store for PlayStation 5. The wait is almost over. To celebrate, we’re taking a closer look at pre-orders, incentive previews, plus a sneak peek at a brand-new stage. Enter the Spirit Wilds We’re excited to reveal Spirit Wilds, a brand-new stage coming to Avatar Legends: The Fighting Game. One of the most mysterious corners of the Avatar universe, Spirit Wilds provides a visually striking battleground for elemental clashes. Launch opponents skyward with airbending or control space with earthbending in this new arena with a beautiful backdrop for every fight. Peep the exclusive Spirit Wilds video reveal and match video below. Play Video Play Video At launch, players will have access to 12 playable characters, a roster of support characters, eight unique stages, and multiple ways to play. Whether you’re looking to jump online, sharpen your skills in Training Mode, or experience the game’s original story, there are no shortages of ways to begin your journey. Pre-order details Players who pre-order either the Standard Edition or Deluxe Edition will receive a collection of exclusive bonuses: Gold color variants for Aang, Korra, Zuko, Katara, Toph, and Sokka Samurai Appa Support Character Skin Voting rights for a Year 1 Pass character Access to the Closed Beta running July 2-5 The Samurai Appa skin gives Aang’s faithful flying companion a tough new look when selected as a support character. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Pre-ordering also unlocks exclusive gold variants for Aang, Korra, Toph, Zuko, Katara and Sokka, giving players striking golden outfits that ensure they look their sharpest while bending. Perhaps most exciting of all, pre-ordering grants players the opportunity to help shape the future of Avatar Legends: The Fighting Game. Players will be able to vote on one of the characters joining the Year 1 Pass roster. Choose your edition Standard edition vs Deluxe edition Year 1 Pass Join us in the Closed Beta Players who pre-order either edition of Avatar Legends: The Fighting Game will receive access to the Closed Beta from July 2 through July 5. The Beta will feature Aang, Korra, Katara, Toph, Zuko, Sokka, and Azula, giving players an early opportunity to experience the game’s fast-paced combat and support character system. Pre-orders are available now on the PlayStation Store, and we’re excited to continue sharing additional updates and surprises as we get closer to launch. Thanks for all your support, and we’re stoked to see you in the Beta. View the full article

Hello everyone! I’m Takeshi Yamanaka, producer of MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls. Did you get a chance to check out the final team trailer revealed today, Sunday, June 28 at EVO 2026 —the “Samurai Outriders”? If you haven’t seen it yet, be sure to watch it below. Play Video Fifth and final team revealed: Samurai Outriders View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Ghost Rider (voiced by Giancarlo Sabogal), who had already been revealed, is now joined by Blade (voiced by Imari Williams), Loki (voiced by Jason Spisak), and Deadpool (voiced by Nolan North) to form a new team. Not the Midnight Sons—but the Samurai Outriders. Were you expecting this lineup? The Samurai Outriders are a group of dark heroes. As you might expect, they don’t start out as a cohesive unit… in fact, they’re quite the opposite. As they face threats to the world, how each of them—and the team as a whole—grows and evolves is something you can look forward to experiencing in Episode Mode. New Stage: Asgard View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image We’re also excited to reveal a new stage: Asgard. Asgard is known in the Marvel Universe as the “Realm of the Gods,” said to sit at the pinnacle of the Nine Realms. It is a land that combines advanced magic with science and technology, ruled by King Odin, and home to Thor Odinson and Loki. In this title, Asgard appears as a battle stage composed of five areas: the Observatory, Bifrost Bridge, Throne Room, Treasure Vault, and Yggdrasil, the World Tree. New playable characters Blade View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Blade, whose real name is Eric Brooks, was born as a human-vampire hybrid after his mother was attacked by a vampire during pregnancy. Seeking revenge against the monsters who killed his mother, he became a vampire hunter, fighting against evil blood-sucking creatures. In this title, Blade has completed his training in Japan, gaining even greater physical and mental strength. He wields the demon-slaying sword Muramasa, a weapon capable of slicing through gods. Muramasa is normally kept sealed with its power restrained, but when Blade releases that power, the blade turns red and reveals its true potential. He specializes in an aggressive combat style, skillfully handling a variety of deadly tools including Muramasa, machine guns, and glaives. One of his unique abilities, Heartstopper, throws a stake that pins the opponent in place and allows Blade to close the distance at incredible speed. When it hits, Muramasa glows red, enhancing the performance of his sword-based skills. Closing in instantly and delivering powerful slashes, Blade truly lives up to the name of a hunter. Loki View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Loki Laufeyson, the adoptive brother of Thor, is known as the “God of Mischief” and the “God of Lies.” Though raised in Asgard by Odin, he is actually the son of Laufey, king of the Frost Giants. Originally a villain, Loki is attempting to turn over a new leaf and become a hero in this title. As part of the Samurai Outriders, he makes full use of his powers of deception. His combat style excels at trickery, with many skills incorporating feints and counters using illusions. He also uses projectiles based on ice and magic, combined with clever use of erratic movements to constantly confuse opponents. True to his mischievous nature, he can dish out frustrating and deceptive attacks—but if his tricks are exposed, he may be punished heavily. Loki is a uniquely unpredictable character who takes advantage of his opponent’s bad habits. Deadpool View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Wade Wilson, a Canadian mercenary, grew up in a troubled household and eventually left home. After receiving extensive military training, he served in special forces but was later diagnosed with cancer. As part of the Weapon X Program, he was injected with a healing serum derived from Wolverine’s blood. While it saved his life and granted him superhuman regeneration, it also left his body severely scarred and his mind unstable. Deadpool’s combat style reflects his reckless nature, enabled by his powerful healing factor. He uses guns, grenades, and swords, along with high-risk techniques that involve taking damage himself. In this title, Deadpool has somehow obtained a game strategy guide from beyond the fourth wall, granting him access to a variety of unique attacks from fighting games of legend. Filled with a love for hype and excitement, he enters the arena with an outrageous arsenal of crowd-pleasing moves. Character Guide trailers Leading up to launch, we will be releasing deep dive trailers for all playable characters. These trailers take a closer look at each character’s battle mechanics, including default color options, normal move animations, skills, super moves, ultimate abilities, and assist types. If you want to learn how a character plays—or just want to see their moves in action—these videos are a great place to start. We recommend checking them out when you find a character you’d like to try. More trailers will be released soon, so stay tuned! Upcoming events With launch fast approaching, the development team is entering the final stretch! We will be holding a global Open Beta* on PS5 and PC from July 24-26 (PT). In this beta, Blade will be available as a playable character. We will be sharing more details soon, so please stay tuned. *Account for PlayStation required to participate in the Open Beta. View the full article

Last week, we tasked you with capturing portraits of Arjun Devraj in Saros’ newly released Photo Mode using #PSshare #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights: l2.focus shares Arjun’s profile against a moody red background MdeavorVP shares Arjun aiming his weapon Santisbae shares Arjun’s head haloed by the eclipse thwippip shares a close up portrait of Arjun rruiz_86 shares Arjun exploring a chamber on Carcosa Couch_Gamer2k23 shares Arjun facing a source of light Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme, or be inspired by other great games featuring Photo Mode. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week? THEME: Sparks SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on July 1, 2026 Next week, share sparks, fireworks, and twinkling lights from the game of your choice. Use #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured. View the full article

We’re back with another Capcom Spotlight presentation, this time focused on new content for Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, a deeper dive into the newly revealed Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen, and a new look at Onimusha: Way of the Sword. Here’s a roundup of what you need to know. Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection New content for Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection launches today, with the arrival of the paid DLC, Additional Side Story: Rudy, as well as a free update that adds powerful endgame challenges. Fans of Monster Hunter Stories and Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin will recognize the return of Navirou, who once journeyed alongside the protagonists of each respective game, and is an ancestor of the Royal Felyne, Rudy. Additional Side Story: Rudy digs deeper in Navirou’s fate in the past 200 years, bringing ancestor and descendant face-to-face in an unexpected twist. Nergigante, the iconic flagship monster from Monster Hunter: World, returns as a formidable threat in this DLC. This destructive Elder Dragon is a bit too rowdy to tame as a Monstie, but you can expect a memorable challenge as you take on this spiky predator in a climactic battle. How will Rudy, Navirou, and crew overcome the power of the extinction dragon? Additional Side Story: Rudy is available as a standalone DLC as well as part of the Deluxe Edition and Premium Deluxe editions. Check PlayStation Store and see what awaits you in this new adventure. Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection also receives a free update adding powerful endgame challenges called Royal Monsters. Riders can load their completed save file and take on an even harder version of the final boss. Defeat this version of the final boss, and the existing world will be populated with powerful Royal Monsters. You can also test your limits even further by taking on Royal Monster versions of invasive monsters and Calamitous Elder Dragons. New details on Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen Two years after the original launch of Dragon’s Dogma 2, the grand fantasy adventure has returned as Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen. Enhanced with major updates and the Dark Arisen Expansion, Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen arrives both as a bundle package for new players, and as a standalone expansion on October 9. During Capcom Spotlight, Director Kento Kinoshita – who also directed the original Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen – shared the team’s desire to deliver on requests from fans to continue exploring the world of Dragon’s Dogma 2 even further. With that in mind, the team invites players to a mysterious new frigid northern area called Norgan. You’ll uncover the story behind a Fallen Dragon, bearing an eerie form with a missing heart, along with its pursuer, a mysterious woman named Eir. In the Norgan area, the addictive gameplay loop first established in Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen, makes a return as the Relic Expedition Cycle. Battle through formidable foes and gather relics, then bring them back for appraisal into stronger weapons and armor. Powerful treasure awaits with every adventure during your pursuits in Norgan. Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen also introduces 12 new unique dungeons called Lost Rites. Rare equipment once held by past Arisen awaits you in these dungeon challenges, which take place in the existing world of Dragon’s Dogma 2. Additional hairstyles and tattoo options are coming with the expansion as well, bringing even greater variety to the versatile character creation options. The base Dragon’s Dogma 2 game was recently updated with a variety of quality-of-life features, too. Ahead of the launch of the expansion, we’ll be releasing a second free update in late August which adds further gameplay improvements highly requested by players, such as additional save slots, an increase of weapon skill slots from four to six, and performance improvements. Pre-orders begin today on PS5 in most regions and will roll out to all countries in early July. Those who pre-order will receive the Norgan Fashion Set – Northern Attire, which can be obtained whether you pre-order the bundle or standalone expansion. Those who pre-order the bundle will immediately receive access to the base Dragon’s Dogma 2 game. Whether you’re a new Arisen or are returning to make the adventure into Norgan, we can’t wait for you to experience what awaits in Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen when it arrives on PS5, October 9. New enemy revealed in Onimusha: Way of the Sword The latest swordplay action game in Capcom’s acclaimed series is nearly here with Onimusha: Way of the Sword. The iconic samurai swordplay series which first began on PlayStation 2 is back with an all-new entry for the first time in 20 years, bringing its signature mix of satisfying samurai action and dark fantasy. Take up the katana of protagonist Miyamoto Musashi, slain by twisted creatures called Genma, and suddenly revived with mysterious Oni powers. Now bearing an Oni Gauntlet, Musashi searches for his reason to fight amidst hordes of powerful Genma in a twisted, dark fantasy version of Edo-period Kyoto. During Capcom Spotlight, Director Satoru Nihei revealed a look at a powerful new Genma enemy: Dohatsu-ten. Have a look at this fearsome new foe for yourself. Dohatsu-ten is a powerful boss enemy with both strength and speed on his side, relentlessly attacking our protagonist Miyamoto Musashi with swift and devastating movements. Unique to this Genma is the bloodthirsty nature of its sword, which becomes increasingly powerful when stained with Musashi’s blood. Beware its surging power as it absorbs souls and becomes even more dangerous. Onimusha: Way of the Sword slashes onto PS5 this September. Get a taste of early action in the game with the free demo on PlayStation Store! View the full article