Daily Mobile Gaming News

A cleaner daily brief on mobile game launches, updates, and pre-registration moves worth watching.

News Wed, May 20, 2026

AlternaVvelt Blue Exorcist AS to Shut Down on June 22, 2026

Aniplex has officially announced the sunset of its 3D action RPG, AlternaVvelt Blue Exorcist AS, which will cease operations on June 22, 2026, at 8:00 PM PDT. Launched in June 2025, this game, which is based on the well-loved manga and anime series Blue Exorcist, will be wrapping up its journey after just a year of service. The development team shared their difficult decision via X (Twitter), citing an inability to continue providing a satisfying service for players as the reason for the shutdown. Players can still enjoy the Ending Story until the game’s closure, with the final story update scheduled for release on June 1, following maintenance. In an effort to ease the transition, the game will shift to an offline version after the end of service, allowing fans to revisit the narrative and continue the adventure. However, access to the offline version will be limited, as the download and update period will only be available until September 30, 2026. In the meantime, in-app purchases have been disabled, and the auto-renewal of the Altex Pass has been suspended. While it’s unfortunate to see AlternaVvelt Blue Exorcist AS conclude its run prematurely, players can look forward to experiencing the story, battling demons, and exploring the True Cross Academy Town even after the service ends.

News Tue, May 19, 2026

Lords of the Fallen II Breaks Free from Epic Games Store Exclusivity

CI Games has officially ended its exclusivity agreement with Epic Games Publishing for Lords of the Fallen II, paving the way for the game to launch on multiple PC storefronts. This shift allows CI Games to take the reins in self-publishing the title across all platforms, while PLAION will still manage the physical distribution globally. Despite the change in publishing strategy, the game will continue to leverage Epic's robust technologies, including the powerful Unreal Engine 5 and Epic Online Services. These tools will enable features such as cross-platform multiplayer, matchmaking, friends lists, and shared progression in co-op play. Marek Tymiński, CEO of CI Games, expressed gratitude towards Epic Games, stating that their support was crucial during the project’s development. He emphasized that with Epic's industry-leading technologies, the team aims to deliver a high-performance game set in an expansive world for players to explore together across PC and consoles. Lords of the Fallen II is slated for release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC later this year.

News Tue, May 19, 2026

Goddess of Victory: NIKKE Debuts Animated Series ‘Outpost: Off-Duty Tales’

Goddess of Victory: NIKKE is branching out with a new animated shorts series titled Outpost: Off-Duty Tales, set to kick off on May 22, 2026. The inaugural episode, “The Counters - First Time at the Outpost!”, promises a refreshing take on the franchise, shifting focus from the usual high-octane battles to the everyday lives of the Nikkes. Gone are the emergency missions and gunfire; instead, viewers can expect casual interactions, humorous moments, and relaxed storytelling that showcase a slice-of-life essence within the Outpost. SHIFT UP, the developer behind NIKKE, is taking significant steps to expand the franchise beyond its roots as a mobile RPG. This move is underscored by the studio's Q1 2026 earnings presentation, where they confirmed plans to grow NIKKE into a broader multimedia entity. With one of the strongest character-driven narratives in the gacha genre, adapting NIKKE's emotional storytelling and anime aesthetics into animated shorts seems like a natural progression. While this approach is relatively fresh for NIKKE, the gacha landscape has seen similar ventures before. Franchises like Honkai Impact 3rd, Blue Archive, and Fate/Grand Order have successfully dabbled in animated shorts and mini-series, proving that there's a growing appetite for such expansions among fans. Moreover, with titles like Devil May Cry and Genshin Impact exploring anime adaptations, NIKKE’s foray into animated storytelling aligns perfectly with industry trends. The animated shorts will be available through NIKKE’s official social channels, although details about subsequent episodes remain under wraps. As this initiative unfolds, it wouldn't be surprising to see a full-fledged anime adaptation on the horizon. For now, players can look forward to a more light-hearted glimpse into the world of NIKKE, where laughter and everyday adventures take center stage.

News Tue, May 19, 2026

Sensor Tower Acquires AppMagic; Sega's Savage Take on Rovio

In the latest episode of the Week in Mobile Games Podcast, the PocketGamer.biz team delves into significant industry developments, including Sensor Tower's recent acquisition of rival analytics firm AppMagic. This move not only strengthens Sensor Tower's market position but also signals shifting dynamics in the mobile app analytics landscape. The podcast also addresses how Time and Business Insider are adapting the New York Times' approach to gaming by launching new titles, a strategy that could reshape how traditional media interacts with the gaming sector. Meanwhile, Nintendo has faced some turbulence, with reports of declining sales for the Switch 2 and a drop in the company’s share price, raising questions about its market strategy moving forward. Sega didn't hold back in its commentary regarding the acquisition of Rovio, expressing sharp critique that reflects broader concerns about consolidation in the gaming industry. Additionally, eBay dismissed GameStop's unexpected proposal to purchase the company, further illustrating the complex interplay of corporate maneuvers in the gaming and retail spaces. Lastly, the emergence of a new Wordle TV show adds an intriguing twist to the gaming landscape, though it bears an uncanny resemblance to existing formats. Tune in for insights and analysis from Craig Chapple, Paige Cook, and Aaron Astle, and be sure to subscribe to catch every episode of the PocketGamer.biz Podcast.

Launch Tue, May 19, 2026

Realm of Ink Unveils BlazBlue Crossover Character Oread Ahead of Launch

4Divinity and Leap Studio are turning the spotlight on their roguelite action game, Realm of Ink, with a new gameplay trailer that showcases the crossover character Oread from BlazBlue Entropy Effect. The game is set to launch on May 26, 2026, across multiple platforms including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. This revealing trailer offers fans a closer look at Oread, who is not just a boss but now enters the fray as a playable character. Oread, originally the Stage 4 boss in BlazBlue Entropy Effect, brings her unique combat style to Realm of Ink, accompanied by a new Ink Gem, themed Ink Pet skins, and additional perks that enhance the gameplay experience. The game has been in Early Access on Steam, where it garnered a “Very Positive” rating from users thanks to its ongoing updates that have fine-tuned combat balance and introduced seasonal content. Players will control Red, a determined swordswoman navigating through fast-paced roguelite encounters while customizing her build with Ink Pets, perks, and upgrades. The game’s aesthetic is inspired by Chinese ink painting, presented in a fluid 2.5D format, promising a visually striking experience. With the Version 1.0 release approaching, pre-orders and pre-purchases are currently available on select platforms. Interested in how Oread will shake up the Realm of Ink? Join the conversation in the comments!

News Tue, May 19, 2026

Bloons Blitz Launches Early Access in the Philippines, Unleashing Chaotic Fun

Bloons Blitz has swung into action, bringing fast-paced bullet heaven survival gameplay to the iconic Bloons universe. Players can assemble a team of beloved Monkey heroes, unlock a variety of upgrades, and fend off never-ending waves of Bloons. This game is packed with roguelike progression, unique boss encounters, collectible toys, stickers, and replayable challenge stages, making it a true delight for fans of the series. Ninja Kiwi has launched the early access version of Bloons Blitz, available now on both Android and iOS platforms in the Philippines. This title marks the latest entry in the popular Bloons series, following successful games like Bloons Card Storm and Bloons TD 6, with a global launch expected in late Q3 or early Q4 of this year. In Bloons Blitz, players can dive into chaotic battles as they control iconic Heroes, utilize their signature weapons, and recruit their favorite Monkeys to tackle relentless waves of Bloons. The gameplay is designed for simplicity, allowing players to engage with one-handed controls while navigating through roguelike levels on an infinite map. When the going gets tough, players can unlock new weapons and upgrades, strategically selecting different powers during each run to enhance their chances of survival. Replayability shines in this title, as players can customize their Monkeys to create a balanced team or focus on specific upgrade paths to unlock potent weaponry. The thrill of unique encounters, power-ups, and epic boss battles promises a fun and chaotic experience, thanks to the iconic Bloons characters and special challenges in the replayable levels. Bloons Blitz is currently available for download via the Google Play Store and App Store in the Philippines. While the global release is anticipated later this year, an exact date has yet to be confirmed.

AI + Mobile Tue, May 19, 2026

Qiddiya Partners with Google Cloud for AI-Driven Entertainment City

Qiddiya is taking its ambitions to the next level by expanding its partnership with Google Cloud, aiming to create an AI-powered gaming and entertainment city that aligns with Saudi Vision 2030. The collaboration will harness Google Cloud AI to streamline real-time operations throughout the city, enhancing both visitor experiences and operational efficiency. At the heart of this endeavor is the Q-Brain platform, which utilizes Google’s Gemini AI models to manage crowds, automate tasks, and personalize experiences for visitors. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to develop Qiddiya City as a key destination for entertainment, sports, and culture in Saudi Arabia, integrating gaming districts, sports venues, theme parks, and arts spaces. Abdulrahman Alali, CTO of Qiddiya Investment Company, highlighted the goal of creating a seamless digital experience that links Qiddiya City with their expanding entertainment portfolio nationwide. He emphasized that by merging Google Cloud’s technology with Master Works’ integration capabilities, they are laying a solid, data-driven foundation for this ambitious project. Abdul Rahman Al Thehaiban, managing director of Google Cloud MEA, underscored the importance of integrating Google Cloud’s infrastructure and AI into Qiddiya's operations, stating it transforms vast amounts of data into actionable insights. This integration is set to ensure that every aspect of the project is digitally optimized, meeting the lofty objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

News Tue, May 19, 2026

Fortnite Makes Global Comeback on App Store, Australia Left Out

Fortnite has officially returned to the App Store worldwide, with Australia being the notable exception. Epic Games stated that this comeback is fueled by confidence that global governments will not permit Apple's "junk fees" once the company reveals its cost structures. The battle for Fortnite's presence on iOS began when the game was removed from the App Store in 2020 for breaching Apple’s policies by implementing its own payment system. Following a lengthy legal struggle, regulatory changes prompted Apple to adjust its terms, paving the way for Fortnite’s gradual return to iOS in select regions. After nearly five years of absence, Fortnite re-entered the US App Store in 2025 and quickly climbed to the top of download charts. The global re-launch comes shortly after Fortnite's reappearance on Google Play. Although the game had been accessible through alternative Android app stores, it was missing from the Play Store for over five years, finally making its return on March 19, 2026. While Fortnite is now available in most major app stores, Epic Games continues to contest its absence from the Australian App Store. In a partial victory last summer, Epic won an antitrust case against Apple in Australia, allowing Fortnite to be offered through the Epic Games Store, but the game remains unavailable for download via the App Store due to what Epic describes as "unlawful" terms enforced by Apple. Throughout this legal battle, Epic has spent over $100 million in legal fees and is currently awaiting a court ruling in Australia.

News Tue, May 19, 2026

Terraria Mobile Sales Near 20 Million as Total Copies Exceed 70 Million

Terraria is hitting new heights as its mobile sales approach 20 million copies, clocking in at 19.7 million globally. This sandbox adventure game, originally launched in 2011, has now surpassed an impressive 70 million copies sold across all platforms. While mobile is making waves, PC remains the heavyweight champion with 39.6 million copies sold, followed by consoles at 10.7 million. Developer Re-Logic is celebrating the game’s 15th anniversary with a few exciting updates. Alongside the sales milestone, they announced that crossplay support is in the pipeline and that updates will persist beyond the forthcoming 1.4.6 release. The studio also highlighted the popularity of tModLoader, which has amassed 12.3 million downloads on Steam, signifying a thriving modding community. As part of the anniversary festivities, Re-Logic has partnered with Lost In Cult to release Terraria: Design Works, a retrospective book that will delve into the game's art and development. Fans can mark their calendars for May 28th, when pre-orders will open for a chance to snag behind-the-scenes content and previously unseen artwork. More plans for the Terraria franchise are also set to be revealed in the near future. In their heartfelt message, the team expressed gratitude, stating, "We hope that our game has brought you some joy over the years... this is as much your journey as it is ours!"

News Tue, May 19, 2026

Nintendo's Quirky New Photo Game Pictonico! Launches Next Week

Nintendo has officially announced Pictonico!, a delightfully quirky mobile game that is set to launch on May 28th. This will be the second mobile title from Nintendo in the 2020s, following the 2025 release of Fire Emblem Shadows. Players can pre-register now on both the App Store and Play Store, with a promise of 80 engaging minigames to dive into once the game is live. Pictonico! is all about editing players' photos to create fun and silly challenges. Imagine stretching your mouth to munch on digital fruit or sprouting cartoonish nose hairs that need a good pluck. One particularly amusing challenge transforms the player into a crawling baby, where the goal is to feed them a lollipop. As players progress, they'll tackle a series of numbered stages and modes, facing high-speed challenges and competing in the notorious "danger zone." This game is the result of a collaboration between Nintendo and Intelligent Systems, the studio behind beloved franchises like Fire Emblem, Paper Mario, and WarioWare. Intelligent Systems is no stranger to mobile success either, as they developed Fire Emblem Heroes, which is Nintendo's most profitable mobile title, having crossed the $1 billion revenue mark. Described by Nintendo as "kind of silly," Pictonico! will offer a free demo featuring three games, while additional content will be locked behind purchasable "volumes." The minigames are designed to appeal to players of all ages, and rest assured, any photos taken won't be sent to Nintendo. While Pictonico! introduces a fresh IP, it draws inspiration from the chaotic fun of WarioWare and the interactive nature of Miitomo. WarioWare is renowned for its collection of zany minigames, while Miitomo allowed players to create Mii characters from selfies and engage in playful interactions. Unlike its previous shadow-dropped titles, Nintendo has opted for more visibility this time, announcing Pictonico! over a week ahead of its release. This approach aims to build excitement and engagement ahead of the launch.