Gaming
Search data shows gamers have given up hope on the PS5
New search data compiled by SEO agency, MRS Digital, reveals that Black Friday searches for PlayStation 5, PS5, and other variations have completely dropped off in the lead up to the international sale event – a time of year where gamers would be keen to pick up a deal on a console.
With stock being a struggle for Sony’s long-term flagship console since its November 2020 release due to a semiconductor shortage, those trying to get their hands on the elusive PlayStation 5 are steadily giving up after a whole year of frustration, turmoil, and online queuing. Adding even more salt to the wound, competitors Xbox and Nintendo are generating significantly more search interest.
The Xbox Series X, the rival to the PlayStation 5, has 6.6x more searches relating to Black Friday in October than the elusive PlayStation 5, likely due to the fact that people can actually buy an Xbox. Although Sony’s PlayStation has always been the better selling console, the price of an Xbox Series S (the competitor to the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition) is £100 less at RRP; a more tempting price point.
Despite the lack of search interest and the opportunity for Microsoft to convert wearied Sony fans on Black Friday weekend, the PlayStation 5 still trumps the Xbox on worldwide sales, with 13.8 million units sold since its launch, compared to 8 million Xbox Series X/S units in total. However, this is a 25% decrease from the 18.5 million opening year sales for the PlayStation 4, which is the best-selling PlayStation since the PlayStation 2, showing that Sony are likely disappointed by the PS5’s sales performance and shortage of parts.
Best Opening Years for Games Consoles (Units Sold):
- PlayStation 4 (2013): 18.5 million
- Nintendo Switch (2017): 17.8 million
- PlayStation 5 (2020): 13.4 million
- Xbox Series X|S (2020): 8 million
- Xbox One (2013): 10 million
Since the PlayStation 5’s release, gamers have been keeping their eyes peeled as to where the rare console may be available, with rumours stirring that retailers may be getting a restock ahead of Black Friday, just in time for one of the biggest shopping events of the entire year, and potentially an opportunity to get the PS5 in time for Christmas. Be quick though, as the PS5 has a track record of selling out almost instantly.
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Casino Content
R. Franco Digital launches Crash Raiders grid-based crash game
R. Franco Digital has launched Crash Raiders, a new crash-style game that uses a grid format instead of traditional reels and paylines.
In Crash Raiders, players move across a grid to uncover prizes while avoiding traps that end the run. Each successful step increases the prize pot, and players can choose to cash out at any point or continue for a higher return.
The game includes four modes. Normal Mode lets players customise grid size, prizes and traps. Turbo Mode uses pre-selected routes for faster play, while Mystery and Mystery Turbo Modes apply full randomness to routes and outcomes.
Crash Raiders also adds an Extra Life mechanic that allows a player to revive once per game after hitting a trap, keeping accumulated winnings in play.
Javier Sacristán Franco, International Business Director at R. Franco Digital, said: “With Crash Raiders, we set out to create a highly engaging hybrid experience that blends strategy with high volatility gameplay. By giving players control over risk and path selection, we deliver a dynamic format that captures the excitement of every decision.”
The post R. Franco Digital launches Crash Raiders grid-based crash game appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Belgium
Epic Games and BLAST bring 2026 Fortnite Global Championship to Antwerp
Epic Games and BLAST will host the 2026 Fortnite Global Championship in Antwerp, Belgium, on September 26-27, marking the FNCS season finale at Lotto Arena.
Epic and BLAST said the event brings the Fortnite competitive circuit and BLAST to Antwerp for the first time. The announcement was made at the Fortnite Major 1 Summit in Düsseldorf, Germany.
A $2,000,000 USD prize pool will be at stake, alongside the FNCS Global Championship trophy crafted by silverware artisan Thomas Lyte.
Epic and BLAST positioned Antwerp—located in the Benelux region—as a travel-friendly destination for fans coming from Belgium, the Netherlands, France and Germany. Ticket information is available via the venue listing.
The post Epic Games and BLAST bring 2026 Fortnite Global Championship to Antwerp appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Crash Games
Evoplay launches Caramelo Dog Lucky Run crash game for Brazil
Evoplay has launched Caramelo Dog Lucky Run, a new crash-style instant win game themed around Brazilian street culture and the widely recognised “Caramelo Dog” reference.
The title follows Taco, a dog navigating a neighbourhood filled with obstacles. Players move step by step across roads as the multiplier increases, choosing to cash out or keep going.
Evoplay said the game uses randomised obstacle patterns so each round plays differently. Players can choose between four difficulty settings — Easy, Medium, Hard, and Hardcore — with higher difficulty increasing obstacle intensity and the multiplier.
Caramelo Dog Lucky Run also includes a cash-out function that can be triggered after Taco safely stops, plus customisable autoplay settings for stake preferences and stop conditions.
Ivan Kravchuk, CEO at Evoplay, said: “Caramelo Dog Lucky Run brings a completely fresh personality to our portfolio through its vibrant Brazilian-inspired setting and charming main character.
“Players in Brazil need games that feel familiar, authentic and culturally connected to them. When a player recognises something that reflects their everyday life and online culture, it creates a far deeper level of engagement than entertainment alone, and that is exactly what Caramelo does in this game.”
The post Evoplay launches Caramelo Dog Lucky Run crash game for Brazil appeared first on Eastern European Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
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