KGK Gaming News Roundup: Console & PC Highlights (August 11–25, 2025)

Phil Brown
Aug 12
3 min read

As the summer gaming season reaches its peak, the next two weeks bring a compelling mix of demos, subscription updates, and major releases across platforms. From strategic Game Pass additions to the unveiling of new gameplay mechanics, here’s what console and PC gamers should keep on their radar.

Assassin’s Creed Mirage Headlines Xbox Game Pass Additions

Microsoft has confirmed the next wave of titles arriving on Xbox Game Pass, with Assassin’s Creed Mirage leading the charge. Available from August 7, Mirage offers a return to the franchise’s stealth-action roots, set in ninth-century Baghdad. The game has been praised for its tighter narrative and refined parkour mechanics, distinguishing itself from the broader RPG scope of recent entries.

Also joining the service are Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap and Rain World, while Persona 3 Reload, Farming Simulator 2022, and Anthem will be removed on August 15. Notably, Anthem is being delisted ahead of its server shutdown in January 2026.

Game site: Assassin’s Creed Mirage

Hell is Us Demo Launches August 12

Rogue Factor’s supernatural third-person action title Hell is Us will receive a free demo across all platforms on August 12. Set in a war-torn country plagued by mysterious phenomena, the game blends psychological horror with melee combat and exploration. The demo offers players a first look at its surreal environments and narrative-driven gameplay ahead of its full release on September 4.

Game site: Hell is Us

Battlefield 6 Beta Continues with Controversial ‘Flick Look’ Feature

The Battlefield 6 beta resumes August 14–17, following a successful first phase that drew over 500,000 concurrent players on Steam. The spotlight now falls on the newly introduced “Flick Look” mechanic—a control option allowing players to execute instant 180-degree turns with a single button press.

Designed to level the playing field between console and PC users in cross-platform matches, the feature has sparked debate. While console players welcome the improved responsiveness, critics argue it undermines traditional skill-based aiming. DICE has yet to confirm if adjustments will be made before launch on October 10.

Game site: Battlefield 6

Gamescom 2025 Preview: Major Titles to Watch

Gamescom 2025 kicks off August 20 in Cologne, Germany, promising hands-on previews and announcements. Microsoft’s booth will feature playable demos of Hollow Knight: Silksong, Ninja Gaiden 4, and The Outer Worlds 2. Third-party showcases include Borderlands 4, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, Final Fantasy XVI, and Super Meat Boy 3D.

Expect surprise reveals and extended gameplay footage as developers leverage the event to build momentum heading into the fall release window.

Event site: Gamescom

Mafia: The Old Country Launches August 8

2K Games returns to its roots with Mafia: The Old Country, a full remake set in Sicily that explores the origins of the Torrisi crime family. The game features a historically rich setting, cinematic storytelling, and revamped mechanics that blend stealth, gunplay, and narrative-driven missions. It’s a standalone experience that reimagines the franchise’s early lore.

Game site: Mafia Series

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II Arrives August 12

Ninja Theory’s highly anticipated sequel Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II launches August 12 for PC and Xbox Series X/S. Building on the psychological depth of its predecessor, the game continues Senua’s journey through myth and trauma, rendered in cinematic detail using Unreal Engine 5. Expect intense combat, immersive sound design, and a haunting narrative.

Game site: Hellblade II

Madden NFL 26 Hits the Field August 14

EA Sports returns with Madden NFL 26, featuring updated rosters, enhanced AI, and a new “Momentum Shift” mechanic that dynamically alters gameplay based on crowd energy and player performance. The title also introduces expanded franchise mode options and cross-platform play for the first time in the series.

Game site: Madden NFL

Sword of the Sea Surfs onto PS5 and PC August 19

From the creators of Abzû and Journey, Sword of the Sea offers a meditative surfing adventure across dreamlike landscapes. Players control a character riding a “Hoversword” through ancient ruins and shifting sands, with a focus on fluid movement and emotional storytelling. The game launches August 19 for PC and PS5.

Game site: Sword of the Sea

Black Myth: Wukong Debuts August 20

Black Myth: Wukong, the action RPG inspired by the classic Chinese tale Journey to the West, releases August 20 across PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S. Developed by Game Science, the title features fast-paced combat, mythological creatures, and stunning visuals powered by Unreal Engine 5. It’s one of the most anticipated new IPs of the year.