Category Archives: Game News

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Nintendo Switch 2 launch trailer banner

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Hits Nintendo Switch 2 on 3 June

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth — Square Enix’s sprawling second chapter in the FF7 remake trilogy — hits Nintendo Switch 2 this Wednesday, 3 June 2026. And for fans in this region: a physical edition has been confirmed for Southeast Asia, which means local game shops here will have box copies from launch day.

What Is Final Fantasy VII Rebirth?

Rebirth is the second entry in Square Enix’s multi-part reimagining of the 1997 PlayStation classic. Following 2020’s Final Fantasy VII Remake and the Intergrade update, Rebirth picks up after Cloud and his allies escape the walls of Midgar and expands into a vast open world — the Grasslands, Junon, the Gold Saucer, and beyond. It was critically acclaimed on PlayStation 5 at its February 2024 launch, and Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox Series X|S players are finally getting their turn.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth gameplay on Nintendo Switch 2
Image courtesy of Square Enix

Nintendo Switch 2 Version: What You Need to Know

The Switch 2 port is expected to run at 1080p and 30fps in docked mode, using Nvidia’s DLSS upscaling technology built into the console. Rebirth is one of the most demanding RPGs Square Enix has produced, so DLSS is doing some heavy lifting here — but the results should be solid based on what’s been previewed so far.

All purchasers at launch receive three in-game bonuses:

  • Posh Chocobo Summoning Materia
  • Shinra Bangle Mk. II armour
  • Midgar Bangle Mk. II armour

Physical Switch 2 Edition — And That Exclusive MTG Card

The physical Switch 2 copy comes with something no other platform or format offers: an exclusive Magic: The Gathering — Final Fantasy promo card featuring Zack Fair, with variant art by none other than Final Fantasy character designer Tetsuya Nomura. Stock is limited, so if you want the card, don’t sit on this one.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth physical Nintendo Switch 2 edition with MTG Zack Fair card
Image courtesy of Square Enix

There’s also a save-data bonus for returning players: if you have Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade save data on your Switch 2, you’ll receive the Leviathan Summoning Materia. Clear the INTERmission DLC and you’ll also unlock Ramuh materia — a nice nudge to play Intergrade first if you haven’t already.

New: Streamlined Progression Mode

The Switch 2 (and Xbox) version introduces Streamlined Progression, an optional mode that gives Cloud’s party unlimited HP, MP, and Limit Break and ATB gauge during battles, along with simplified weapon ability acquisition. It keeps the RPG DNA intact — damage is still capped at 9,999 — but removes most of the grind, making Rebirth far more accessible for players who want to experience the story without getting stuck on combat.

Veterans can ignore it entirely. But for those who bounced off the difficulty on PS5 or are new to the series, this is a genuinely useful addition.

Editions and Pricing

Two digital editions are available on the Nintendo eShop:

  • Standard Edition — USD $49.99 (SGD retail price to be confirmed at local stores; other major Switch 2 titles retail around SGD $79–$110 locally)
  • Digital Deluxe Edition — USD $69.99 — adds the Magic Pot Summoning Materia, Reclaimant Choker accessory, Orchid Bracelet armour, a digital art book, and a digital mini soundtrack

Not ready to commit? A free demo is already live on the Nintendo Switch 2 eShop, letting you sample the opening chapters of Rebirth before purchasing.

What This Means for Singapore Gamers

The Nintendo Switch 2 has gained a solid foothold in Singapore since its launch, and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is shaping up to be one of the biggest RPG releases on the platform this year. The confirmed SEA physical edition means local retailers here won’t be empty-handed — you can grab a box copy from your nearest game shop rather than importing.

SGD retail pricing had not been confirmed at the time of writing; check with your local game retailer or the Nintendo eShop Singapore for the final figure. And if you’ve already put hours into Rebirth on PS5, that exclusive Tetsuya Nomura MTG card might still be enough to tempt a double-dip on Switch 2.

PokéPark KANTO: Where Pokémon Dreams Come to Life!

Attention all Pokémon trainers and enthusiasts! The Pokémon Company has just unveiled a thrilling new adventure that’s set to make your wildest Pokémon dreams a reality. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Kanto region with the announcement of PokéPark KANTO LLC.

Picture this: a fusion of the enchanting world of Pokémon and the vibrant landscape of Japan’s Kanto region, where nature’s beauty meets the imaginative realm of Pikachu, Charmander, and all your favorite Pokémon companions. This new entertainment marvel, nestled within the legendary Yomiuriland amusement park, promises an immersive experience like no other.

Why Kanto, you ask? It’s not just any location; it’s where the iconic Pokémon journey began. The birthplace of Pokémon Red and Pokémon Green, the Kanto region holds a special place in every trainer’s heart. Now, it’s being brought to life as PokéPark KANTO, an ode to the roots of this beloved franchise.

What can you expect? Think of a space where Pokémon devotees from across the globe unite, transcending barriers of language, culture, and borders. Imagine wandering through lush landscapes, encountering Pokémon in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the essence of this fantastical world.

This announcement is merely the tip of the iceberg. The Pokémon Company pledges more updates and tantalizing details in the pipeline, so brace yourselves for an influx of excitement!

So, mark your calendars, trainers! Stay tuned for further revelations about this unprecedented venture. PokéPark KANTO is on the horizon, and it’s poised to redefine what it means to be a Pokémon fan. Prepare to live, breathe, and experience Pokémon like never before!

Get ready to catch ’em all, once again, in the enchanting realm of PokéPark KANTO!

Source: https://sg.portal-pokemon.com/topics/event/pokepark_kanto.html

Finally our very first Singapore Comic Con 2019!

This year Singapore will finally have her very own Singapore Comic Con! While the name is new, the convention is actually a continuation of the yearly Singapore Toy, Games & Comic Convention (STGCC), one of Singapore’s top Pop Culture show. We are just two weeks away from the convention which will take place on the 7th and 8th Dec 2019 at the Marina Bay Sands Expo Hall A/B/C from 10am-7pm. Ticketing information can be found here.

Image Courtesy of SGCC 2019
Image Courtesy of SGCC 2019

Although the word ‘Toy’ has been taken out from the show name, what’s a Comic Con without toys? Exhibitors will be bringing their latest toy collections to the show. For Star Wars fans, be sure to check out the Star Wars Chess set complete with Princess Leia, Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker.

Image Courtesy of SGCC 2019

Besides the latest pop culture merchandise, fans can look forward to a star-studded line-up, including three-time New York best-selling artist famed for his artwork in graphic novels such as Batman: The Black Mirror series, Mark Simpson or better known as Jock. Alongside Jock, comic book artist and penciller, Greg Capullo will also be present for a special meet & greet session. Fans can also catch a glimpse of pop surrealist, Tara McPherson in action this year.

Image Courtesy of SGCC 2019
Image Courtesy of SGCC 2019
Image Courtesy of SGCC 2019

A visit to the Good Game Experience (GGXP) area is a must for all gamers. PVP Esports zone will be holding the finals of Singtel’s PVP Campus and Corporate Leagues featuring Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and Dota 2 at the area.

From console games to tabletop games, be sure to check out this area to get all your gaming fix. If you are a Pokemon Trading Card gamer, do participate in the Pokémon Trading Card Game Special Event Championship at the Comic Con Pokémon Special Event, by Maxsoft and Project EXT. Register here on their website.

Image Courtesy of SGCC 2019

With so much to do and see, Singapore Comic Con should definitely be on your agenda for your next weekend outing!

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare beta is out!

The latest Call Of Duty simply titled Call of Duty: Modern Warfare is out now in beta across PS4, Xbox One and PC. PS4 players will be able toXbox get their beta version as early as today (for those who preordered) while the PC and player will have to wait a few days more till 19 Sept.

Do note that the actual game is not out yet till later this year.

Below is the full press release:

CALL OF DUTY: MODERN WARFARE MULTIPLAYER BETA STARTS TODAY

 

 

Weekend 1 Multiplayer Beta Kicks-off on PlayStation 4 Today

 

Fans on Consoles and PC Can All Play Together in the Crossplay Multiplayer Open Beta Next Weekend, Previewing the Deepest Call of Duty Multiplayer Experience to Date

 

Singapore, September 13, 2019  Today, the highly-anticipated Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® beta* kicks-off for PlayStation 4 fans to get hands-on with an early look of the game’s critically-acclaimed multiplayer. Throughout the weekend, Infinity Ward will be logging valuable feedback and gameplay information ahead of the game’s global launch on October 25.

 

Following the recent Modern Warfare 2v2 Gunfight Open Alpha, which was the largest Alpha or Beta in Call of Duty history on PlayStation 4, the Modern WarfareBeta will deliver a deeper look at several elements ofModern Warfare’s multiplayer universe, including tight close-quarter 2v2 Gunfight gameplay, traditional 6v6 Multiplayer and large-player count experiences on massive maps featuring a wide array of vehicles. The Beta will expand in Weekend 2 to include all platforms, and for the first time in Call of Duty history, feature crossplay testing as fans across console and PC will be able to play the Modern Warfare Beta together prior to next month’s launch.

 

Winner of the Best Online Multiplayer” by Game Critics Best of E3 2019, Modern Warfare’s ultimate multiplayer playground delivers an action-packed online experience with best-in-class down the barrel gameplay, along with unprecedented depth and variety in gameplay. The Beta test will feature a suite of new multiplayer modes that redefine the Call of Duty sandbox, ranging from the close-quarter frenetic 2v2 Gunfight, up to and including the epic large-scale Ground War mode supporting up to 64 players, night gameplay maps, and the fully immersive Realism mode.

 

“With Modern Warfare, we’re bringing the gaming community together like never before.  Starting with the beta we are going to be soliciting player input and feedback that will help us to polish and refine the Day One experience at launch,” said Patrick Kelly, Creative Director and co-Studio Head, Infinity Ward. “Starting this weekend we’re planning to give players access to a new features and maps each day.  Then next weekend, we will introduce crossplay, enabling players to connect with friends and other gamers across platforms.  We are also planning to expose more new content and ways to play in the second weekend.  In all, we can’t wait for the community to jump in both weekends.”

 

Players will have two weekends to join in on the fun, with new content and playlists rolling out throughout the beta.

 

  • PlayStation 4 Exclusive Beta – Weekend 1
    • September 13 – 17 (Open Beta, PlayStation 4)
  • Beta featuring crossplay testing – Weekend 2
    • September 20 – 21 (Early Access, PC and Xbox One; Open Beta, PlayStation 4)
    • September 22 – 24 (Open Beta, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox One)

 

For the full rundown of all planned Beta content as well as information for feedback and updates, please visit https://blog.activision.com/call-of-duty.

 

While the beta is just a portion of the overall Modern Warfare multiplayer offering, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare offers a unified narrative experience across all modes of play, including the thrilling single player story campaign and the all-new Special Ops co-op mode accessible to all skill levels. 

 

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare is scheduled for release globally October 25th on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. The title features a fully-optimized PC version, developed in partnership with Beenox, which will be available exclusively on Battle.net®, Blizzard Entertainment’s online gaming platform. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare is published by Activision, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Activision Blizzard (NASDAQ: ATVI) with development led by award-winning developer, Infinity Ward, and additional development support from Beenox, High-Moon Studios and Raven Software.

Console VS PC/Mac gaming is no longer relevant…

A new 2017 Gaming report by IDC and App Annie has shown that the spending on mobile game has way exceeded that of console and PC. To be exact, according to the report, mobile gaming is 2.3 times that of PC/Mac games and 3.6 times of home gaming consoles. Now, it’s no longer the case of console vs PC. Mobile is officially the newest and shiniest kid in the block.

This chart from the report tells it all. The emerging trend of mobile game is overshadowing both PC/Mac gaming as well as home gaming console.

What it means for gamer

Good news for you if you are mostly playing games on your mobile phones. Already we have seen some very high quality mobile games recently such as Lineage 2 Revolution, Fate Grand Order and Onmyoji . With this ongoing trend, expect more investors pouring money into development of mobile gaming. So more choices and high quality games for you. On the flip side, being such a lucrative market, gamers may see more pay-to-win games emerging. Developers may also start to get creative with ways to get you to part your money via micro transactions.

Console game developers are fighting back

Not to lose out on the growth of mobile gaming, lately we have seen traditional console game developers such as Nintendo and Square Enix moving into the mobile space.

Nintendo now has a number of titles in the iOS and Android store. Amongst them Super Mario Run which was a paid game at $9.99. Traditionally, Mario had never leave the Nintendo console ecosystem. This game is the first for the Mario franchise and a pretty bold move for Nintendo.

Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp launched in October 2017 has also attracted a fervent group of gaming. Some of whom turned the game into a weird experimental cult game. Nonetheless, for Nintendo, it is an encouraging results from their early foray into Mobile gaming.

Then you have games that used to be on consoles but are now ported to mobile. Some like Final Fantasy VII and IX are mere direct port from the original console version.

The latest Final Fantasy XV (15) Pocket edition is Square Enix first attempt at repurposing a console game title into a mobile games built almost from ground up. I must say that the playability, graphics and experience of FF15 Pocket is way better than the normal direct port version of other Final Fantasy.

Gaming by region

Asia is the biggest spender in gaming. According to IDC and App Annie, 60% of the global spend on gaming came from the Asia Pacific region, led mostly by China, Japan and South Korea.

Gaming experience

Recently, there are many distasteful decision by game developers aiming at monetizing their game. You may have encountered some of these games.

Whatever the outcome of this gaming war is going to be, we sincerely hope that developers do not deviate from providing the best gaming experience to gamers.

Data source: IDC and App Annie

GameStart 2018 is announced – 13 to 14 Oct

GameStart 2018 is officially announced! Attracting more than 24,000 visitors last year, GameStart was a fun-filled event that gamers should not miss. Like last year, we will be there to bring you the highlights of GameStart 2018.

This year, GameStart will be venturing outside Singapore and into Indonesia’s shore where they will hold the first inaugural GameStart 2018 Indonesia. More details will be provided by GameStart later this year.

With  games across multiple platforms, from PC to mobile, console and tabletop, there is will be something for any types of gamers. Esports, cosplay and Founders Base, which provides discounted booths for startups, artists and indie developers to showcase their products, will again be part of the event.

SEA Major, the top fighting game tournament in South East Asia will also be back at GameStart 2018. Lineup of games include Street Fighter V, Tekken 7 and more. Check out more details at www.beastapac.com.

Meanwhile, you can read up on the last year event here as well as view the video below for some of the highlights of GameStart 2017.

 

SITEX 2017 – Beyond Just Buying Gadgets

It’s the time of the year again for some Christmas shopping! If you have a electronic that you wish to buy in 2017, SITEX is your last chance to get good deals at a major consumer electronics event. This yearly event is happening right now at Hall 7 and 8 of the Singapore Expo from 23-26 Nov 2017 (Thu-Sun) from 11am till 9pm.

With the opening of the new phase 3 downtown line, it is even easier to get to SITEX this year. Do take note that unlike previous year, this year, SITEX is located at Hall 7 & 8.


Something for the Gamers…

Game console trade-in is provided by GameXtreme at Hall 7. You can trade in your old console and get a new one at a discount. For those who wish to quickly get rid of their consoles while buying the latest PS4 Pro or Nintendo Switch, this could be what you need. If not, you can always post it on GameTrader.SG and sell it on your own.

The latest PS4 Pro and PS4 Slim are the top selling consoles at GameXtreme.

Here are the trade-in prices.

Do check out their booth at Hall 7.

Something for the Treasure Hunter…

While you are at SITEX, how about winning some free prizes such as a Moto M Smartphone or a SkullCandy Headphones?  You would just have to visit each of the five zones (Smart Home, AutoTech, KidsTech, VR/AR and The Audio Room) and answer three to five simple questions. The TechHunt has two sessions, one on the 23rd of Nov (Thu) and the other on the 26th of Nov (Sun).

The first 300 registrant will be entitled to a free TrackR. TrackR is basically a bluetooth tracker that will ring and light up when you activate it remotely via the TrackR app. Perfect for those who keeps misplacing their items.

Here is the link to register for TechHunt.

Something for the Phone Enthusiast…

Apple Fans have their iPhone X to drool about while Android fans have the latest Google Pixel 2 XL and the much talk about Razer Phone. Both of them are available for you to try out at the Singtel Booth (Hall 7).

Google Pixel 2 XL

The Google Pixel 2 XL feels great on my hand. Display is crisp and colours are vivid. And being a Google ‘official’ phone, it will get the latest Android OS right after the release. So you can be sure your Pixel 2 XL will always be running the latest OS.

Razer Phone 

This is the baby that we can’t wait to try out. Although it is being marketed  as a gaming phone, this Android Phone is highly capable of being a mini home-theater system.

We tried the video that demonstrated the power of the Razer Phone sound system powered by Dolby Atmos (the same sound system used by some theather). We were blown away! Despite the noisy background, the sound coming out from the phone sounds really good. The two powerful speaker residing on both sides of the phone does an excellent job in throwing out the audio to us with surround sound quality.

Gaming-wise, there are three games to try at the booth. Definitely, the visual look fantastics on the display. However, we feel that there could be more that the Razer Phone is capable of. Perhaps not all Android games that is out in the market now will be able to harness the full power of the Razer Phone which is a pity.

Buyer has to note that the new Razer Phone is running on Android 7.1 (Nougat) and not the latest Android 8 (Oreo). While we are told that the update will be coming in a few weeks time, no one is really sure when exactly it will be coming.

Something for the Audiophiles….

If you like listening to good quality music, you must visit SITEX’s Audio Room. Tuck away in a corner of Hall 8, it’s the best place to go to chill out amidst the hustle and bustle on the show floor.

Listen to some music from the DJ or plug in your own devices to try out some of the headphones at the Audio Room. We pampered our ears with the top end Klipsch Heritage HP-3 Headphones. It cost around USD1,200 and is showcased at this year CES 2017 in Las Vegas. You would have to try the headphones yourself to experience it yourself.

Something for the Cryptocurrency Beginner…

Heard of Cryptocurrency and always wanted to have your own mining server? Building your own computer to mine cryptocurrency like Ethereum and Bitcoin may not be a trivial task.

The guys are the Mining Rig Club are there to help. Located at Hall 8 at the Innovation Zone, Mining Rig Club is a newly form startup that had concoct what they believe is the highest ROI rig for cryptocurrency. Buy a rig from them and let them run and service it for a monthly fee. It is that simple. Their rig comes configured for your use so you don’t have to trawl through the internet to find out what to install or run in order to mine cryptocurrency.

They are located at the Innovation Zone at Hall 8.

Something for the Smart-Shopper

IUIGA is a start-up that promotes luxurious quality product at affordable prices. They are kind of like your Muji except a lot cheaper with products at the same quality.

How do they do it? IUIGA operate via a Original Designer Manufacturer (ODM) business model. A ODM is a manufacturer that does designing and produce the good for a brand. The ODM owns the product and design rights. Hence, IUIGA is able to find those same Manufacture for well-known brands like Muji and Samsonite. Their ‘Aluminium Alloy Frame Luggage Bag‘, which is the from same manufacturer a Samsonite but at almost half the price, is already sold out.

Their app is available on both iOS and Android.


WIth things to buy, win and see, spending your weekend at SITEX will be well worth your time. Also, get your Christmas presents early. SITEX would most likely have what your love one needs.

Happy Holidays Everyone!

GameTrader.SG is the official Media Partner for SITEX 2017

GameStart 2017 – Every Game You Can Imagine, It Is There.

Main Stage of GameStart 2017

Board game, card game, console game, retro console game, mobile game, indie game, VR game or any type of games you can think of, you can find them at this year GameStart 2017. Let’s take you through a tour of the highlights at this year GameStart 2017.

Bandai Booth

Dragon Ball FighterZ

The much anticipated Dragon Ball FighterZ has previously received many positive reviews from media when the trailer was first released at E3 2017. It is touted as one of the most faithful adaptation of the anime into game.

The game itself looks as promising as the E3 trailer. At times, you would even think you are watching the anime. The queue to try out the game was constantly long but it was definitely worth the wait especially for the Dragon Ball fan.

Taiko no Tatsujin (太鼓の達人)

Taiko no Tatsujin game was also available for visitors to try out at the Bandai booth.

PlayStation Booth

The biggest booth of all, a multitude of PS4 games were opened up to everyone. If you tried out all four booth, you can get to win a small token prize much like this year IT Show 2017 PlayStation Booth.

PlayStation Booth

Get behind the wheels of Gran Turismo Sport in a futuristic Tron-like pod.

Gran Turismo Sport

By now, most of you might have tried out PlayStation VR before. We tried out Farpoint VR. While refreshing to try out a FPS on PlayStation VR, the combination of running and shooting in the VR world was too much for me to take. After a 3 minutes gameplay, I’m already feeling dizzy.

PlayStation VR

Doujin Market

Another of our favourite was the Doujin Market. There are many great artists in Singapore. There is where we can support them by buying their work. Rachta Lin is one of artist whom we really like her work and her works were  available at this year GameStart

Doujin Market

eSports

SEA Mobile Major

There are two main stage for the eSports lover. SEA Mobile Major took place at one of the stage featuring ShadowVerse. Mobile gaming has indeed come a long way in eSports from the days of Angry Birds.

At the other stage, players battle each other at many popular fighting game such as Street Fighter V, Marvel VS. Capcom Infinite and Tekken 7.

SEA Major 2017

Hitting the groin is allowed in the world of eSports!

SEA Major 2017

Tabletop Game

A huge area was dedicated to tabletop games. Even if you are not a fan of tabletop games, you can just check out some of the impressive miniature models in games such as Warhammer.


And of course there are many fun-loving cosplayers at the events itself that makes the whole experience even better!

FF XV Cosplayers

 

Nier Creator Yoko Taro and Square Enix Producer Yosuke Saito at GameStart 2017

 

One of the highlight of this year GameStart 2017 is the main stage appearance of Yoko Taro, father of Nier, and Yosuke Saito, Square Enix Producer.

As usual the eccentric Yoko Taro has his Emil Mask on only for a short period of time before being ushered into a Yoko box where he takes off his mask. Nope you can’t see him from outside the box. It’s his own way of keeping his identity secret (though his real life photo can be found on the internet).

The interview session was entertaining with legion of fans participating actively throughout the entire session. Many shouted vehemently at the end of the show “人類に栄光あれ” in Japanese which mans “Glory to Mankind”. A pledge that is made famous in the game Nier Automata.

A set of pre-submitted fan questions were selected beforehand. Some of them are your standard fan questions, some elicit really funny answer from Yoko.

*Q&A below is not the actual transcript but a translated version from Japanese.

Fan: Are there certain movies or books that inspire you for the game.
Yoko: I get my inspiration from some of them. Evangelion is one from anime and the American Drama 24 is another one. I will try to avoid taking ideas from major titles as other would easily spot it. So usually, I will steal from the more minor title.

That’s Yoko Taro for you. Straight, honest answer with a tinge of humour.

Here’s another one:

Fan: Why did you include an ending where you have to delete the gamer’s save file?
Yoko: When I was young, my save file for Dragon Quest 3 was deleted. I was devastated and disappointed. But my parents do not understand what I was going through. Hence I make my players go through the same experience.

So that’s it?! While this sounds brutal, it is also really amusing to me. For the longest time, I always thought that there is a stronger meaning behind asking the user to delete the save file at the ending. So the truth is simply this. Advice to you when you play Yoko Taro’s game, don’t read too much into why things are how they are in the games.

The final section is a compilation of the fan’s answers to a list of Nier Automata related questions. Here are some of the results

Seems like long hair A2 is more popular…hmm…

Next question. Slightly controversial.

You would have guess it’s the (*AHEM) Tits as what Yoko Taro thought. But the result is…

Butt? Ok…let’s not discuss why and respect the crowd’s vote.

This is the funniest question yet. I wonder who came out with the questions…

And you guessed it…

Adult Game! Yoko Taro says he will seriously consider this. We will just have to wait for the Nier Automata sequel if there is going to be one.


There are many more things to see at GameStart 2017. Tomorrow will be the last day (15th Oct 2017). Be sure to visit if you have not!