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6h ago

Bus Simulator 27 Launches Today with Long-Distance Buses and 45-Plus Licensed Vehicles

astragon Entertainment and Simteract released Bus Simulator 27 today for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S with Japanese support. The game combines bus operation management with realistic driving, letting players plan routes and expand a bus company, with cross-platform four-player co-op. It introduces long-distance buses for the series, set in Felicia Bay, a new region inspired by Spain and Portugal. The roster covers 13 manufacturers and more than 45 vehicles.

1d ago

TARMACWORKS 1/64 Diecast Lineup Opens Amazon Pre-Orders

Four TARMACWORKS 1/64 scale diecast mini cars are open for pre-order on Amazon Japan, including the Safari Rally Kenya 2024 winning Toyota GR Yaris and a Pandem Mazda RX-7 FC3S. Prices run from 5,060 to 6,160 yen, and all four are scheduled for a February 28, 2027 release.

2d ago

IDOLiSH7 and COCO'S Collab Campaign Runs Until October 7

The IDOLiSH7 and COCO'S collaboration campaign, featuring the seven members in original outfits and mini characters, is running at stores nationwide. The Tokyo Heiwadai store is a specially decorated highlight. The campaign includes menu items, clear cards, original voice audio, and goods, with a deadline of October 7.

4d ago

EverRail Design Flips Train Fuel Into Survival Energy

Aesir Interactive's train survival adventure EverRail entered Early Access for PC on July 20, priced at 1,900 yen, with a 20% discount to 1,520 yen until September 11. Lead game designer Tom described how the core mechanic reversed fuel consumption so running the train generates energy, making stopped trains a danger. The game supports Japanese.

4d ago

Cardcaptor Sakura Clear Card Sakura [Seige] Figure Launches

Kotobukiya is releasing a 1/7 scale figure of Sakura Kinomoto from "Cardcaptor Sakura: Clear Card" in her [Seige] costume version. The figure captures flowing ribbons and skirt movement, holds the Dream Wand, and includes Kero-chan beside her. It is priced at 24,200 yen and is scheduled for release in April 2027.

5d ago

Aoshima Adds Tiger-Color Kawasaki Z1A and Honda Gorilla Kits to The Bike Line

Aoshima Bunka Kyozai-sha is adding two kits to its 1/12 scale The Bike plastic model series, both due in January 2027. The Kawasaki Z1A 900 SUPER4 '74 reproduces the 1974 export model in tiger color, with rubber tires, vinyl pipes, and metal screws. The Honda Z50J Gorilla '78 recreates the 1978 catalog specification of the long-running Monkey derivative. Prices are 3,520 yen and 1,540 yen, excluding tax.

5d ago

ATS MODELS Puts the SUBARU IMPREZA WRX (GC8) in 1/64 Scale

ATS MODELS is taking pre-orders on Amazon.co.jp for a 1/64 scale SUBARU IMPREZA WRX (GC8) 1997 model in black and white. Each finished product sells for 6,930 yen including tax and is scheduled to ship on January 31, 2027. The model reproduces the flared body, hood air intake, sport wheels, and large rear wing of the 1990s rally car, with a hood that opens to reveal the EJ20 engine. A display base and clear case are included.

5d ago

MG Mass Production Hyaku Shiki Kai and Heavy Gundam Return to Premium Bandai

Bandai Spirits is re-releasing two Master Grade kits from the MSV line through Premium Bandai. The MG 1/100 Mass Production Hyaku Shiki Kai and the MG 1/100 FA-78-2 Heavy Gundam open for pre-order on September 4, 2026 at 11:00. The Hyaku Shiki Kai is priced at 6,490 yen and ships in February 2027, while the Heavy Gundam is 5,390 yen and ships in March 2027.

6d ago

Gran Turismo 7 Spec IV Update Announced, Lands in Two Parts This Year

Sony Interactive Entertainment announced the large update "Spec IV" for Gran Turismo 7 during its State of Play broadcast on September 3, 2026. The free major update will roll out in two parts, with the first arriving in October and the second in December. It adds two courses: Sportsland SUGO, a Japanese technical circuit with varied elevation changes, and Autumn Link, a track that has appeared in the series since the first title. A total of 12 new car models will be introduced, added in two batches. The update also brings several new modes, including Online Drift Trial, where drivers compete on control, precision, and style; Shuffle Race, which sets online race conditions randomly; the new driving experience "Experience"; and the garage feature "View Car." A mode called Family Mode, designed so even small children can play, was also teased, with elements aimed at hardcore players. Further details are scheduled for October 3 at the Gran Turismo World Series Round 3 event in Singapore.

6d ago

Fallout, Cyberpunk, Poppy Playtime Goods Set for Tokyo Game Show 2026

Inforenz will run an INFOLENS GEEK SHOP merchandise booth at Tokyo Game Show 2026, selling new Fallout, Cyberpunk, and Poppy Playtime items. Newly handled lines include Pragmata, Ender Lilies, and Ender Magnolia. The booth is at 11-W01 in Hall 11, with a purchase bonus fan.

6d ago

YAO Project Announces Second Song, Born From Okinawa Roots

The music project YAO, made up of Awich, CHICO CARLITO, ONE OK ROCK, and Paledusk, will release its second song digitally on September 4. Titled "Arufu na Sekai no Hate ni," the track grew out of the members' dialogue about Okinawa's history and culture, and was previewed during ONE OK ROCK's August tour dates.

6d ago

Higurashi: When They Cry Steam Sale Runs Through September 15

The Higurashi: When They Cry sound novel series is on sale on Steam through September 15, with discounts up to 50 percent. The sale covers the question arcs, answer arcs, and side stories from the Hou compilation, including free access to Onikakushi. The series comes from Ryukishi07, who also wrote Silent Hill f.

6d ago

Moomin and Tunktunk Collab Merch Set for GREEN×EXPO 2027

Moomin and Tunktunk, the official mascot of GREEN×EXPO 2027, will release official licensed collaboration merchandise. The tie-up draws on the resonance between Moomin's value of respect for nature and the expo's theme. Products include a mug, a plate, two handkerchiefs, and an eco bag, priced from 1,980 to 4,400 yen. The mug and plate arrive around January 2027; the rest follow in late February to early March 2027. More items are planned.

Sep 2

Tropico 7 Brings Terraforming and a Reworked Political System

Tropico 7 was shown in a hands-off presentation at gamescom 2026 in Cologne. The series adds terraforming for the first time, letting players raise and carve land, build lakes, and expand islands, alongside curved roads and free building placement. Citizen simulation now includes parked cars, walking residents, and garbage collection. The political system is overhauled with a political matrix that ties the president's ideology to available decrees, plus factions, media influence, and a new Council.

Sep 1

Busan Film Festival Adds Japanese Animation Special with 13 Films

The 31st Busan International Film Festival will screen 13 films in a new out-of-competition category, "Japanese Animation Special: Masterpieces of Madness, Exhilarating Prospects 12+1." The lineup spans 1958 to 2026, from The White Snake Enchantress and Belladonna of Sadness through Metropolis and Mind Game to four 2026 titles. The King and the Mockingbird, a French film that influenced Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, also screens in the section.

Sep 1

NVIDIA DLSS 5 Debuts in NBA 2K27 After Early Access Leak

NVIDIA announced on September 1 that DLSS 5, its AI-driven rendering technology, will launch on September 3 Pacific Time and debut in the PC version of NBA 2K27, which goes on sale September 4 Japan time. The technology, first detailed at GTC in March and expanded at gamescom 2026, introduces 3D-Guided Neural Rendering, which uses AI to add photorealistic lighting and material detail to frames rendered by the game engine. It is available on GeForce RTX 50 series GPUs and GeForce NOW. The release follows a controversy in March when a demo video showed original graphics being transformed, and an early access version of NBA 2K27 on August 26 contained files for the technology, leading users to apply it to games like Cyberpunk 2077 and GTA V. NVIDIA states that in officially supported titles, artists control the scope and intensity of the effect, and that whether to make images more realistic is a creative decision. Visual Concepts Senior Producer Peter Kavic said the technology improves material and lighting quality while allowing control to match existing art direction.

Aug 31

Steel Ball Run Trio Joins Bushiroad Creative's PalVerse Pale. Figure Line

Bushiroad Creative's PalVerse Pale. figure brand has added Steel Ball Run JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. Johnny Joestar, Gyro Zeppeli, and Diego Brando appear as deformed figures, on sale since Friday, August 28, 2026, at anime goods and hobby shops, mass retailers, and major online shops for 3,300 yen each.

Aug 31

Ollie Ninja Slash Steam Page Opens Ahead of September Release

CCMC opened the Steam store page for Ollie Ninja Slash, a high-difficulty platform action game starring Hololive Indonesia talent Kureiji Ollie. Developed by 7 Moon Studio, the game launches September 18, 2026 for 250 yen. Wishlist registration is now available.

Aug 31

007 First Light Switch 2 Version Delayed Again, Third Postponement

H2 INTERACTIVE announced on August 31 that the Nintendo Switch 2 version of '007 First Light' will be delayed again, marking the third postponement for that platform. The game, which stars a young James Bond, was originally set for March 27, 2026, then pushed to May 27 for the PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S versions. The Switch 2 version was previously targeted for late summer 2026. H2 INTERACTIVE said a new release date will be announced later. IO Interactive reported over 4 million copies sold as of August 20.

Aug 31

Figuarts ZERO Naruto Uzumaki Figure Joins -NARUTO 72 series- Line

BANDAI SPIRITS announced a new Figuarts ZERO figure of Naruto Uzumaki from the -NARUTO 72 series-, which adapts newly drawn illustrations. The figure features Naruto holding a kunai with Gaara depicted as a semi-3D relief background. Pre-orders open September 1, 2026, at general retail stores. The figure stands about 190mm tall and is priced at 11,000 yen including tax. It is scheduled for release in March 2027.

Aug 29

GUNDAM-Con2027 Ticket Lottery Opens With SEED FREEDOM ZERO Stage Set

The Gundam series 50th anniversary celebration event GUNDAM-Con2027 SIDE MAKUHARI runs January 9 to 11, 2027, at Makuhari Messe in Chiba. First lottery ticket sales are now open until September 6. The event features work stages including Mobile Suit Gundam SEED FREEDOM ZERO, plus Gunpla, card, and game competitions.

Aug 29

Bari Bari Densetsu's Shu Hideyoshi Gets a Die-Cast GSX750S KATANA Model

Hobby Japan is producing a 1/24 scale die-cast finished model of Shu Hideyoshi's SUZUKI GSX750S KATANA from the manga Bari Bari Densetsu. The model reproduces the bike's signature muffler, handlebars, and mirrors. It retails for 4,290 yen including tax, with orders open now at Post Hobby and hobby shops nationwide.

Aug 29

IDOLiSH7 Live Tour 4WARD JOURNEY Opens in Makuhari With 16 Idols

The IDOLiSH7 VISIBLIVE TOUR "4WARD JOURNEY" began August 21, 2026, at Makuhari Messe, bringing together the four groups IDOLiSH7, TRIGGER, Re:vale, and ZOOL. The opening day featured performances from all 16 idols, with each group delivering distinct stage presences. The tour continues to Intex Osaka and Marine Messe Fukuoka.

Aug 29

Gundam Mk-II (AEUG Specification) Premium Figure Priced at 137,500 Yen

BANDAI SPIRITS Collectors Division opened the product page for the METAL STRUCTURE Kaitai Shouki RX-178 Gundam Mk-II (AEUG Specification), a completed robot figure priced at 137,500 yen. It stands about 310mm tall with over 2,500 parts, includes a High Mobility Combat Form, and is scheduled for general retail release in January 2027. Sofmap will hold a lottery sale from August 28 to August 31.

Aug 29

Tropico 7 Hands-On Shows Citizens Die When Care Fails

Kalypso Media has set Tropico 7's overseas release date for January 28, 2027, with the domestic date to come. A hands-on demo on a 5,000-citizen island confirmed that each individual is fully simulated from birth to death. Satisfaction is calculated from actual visits, so a hospital without available appointments fails to meet health needs.

Aug 29

Haruhi Suzumiya FD3S RX-7 Returns as Aoshima Tuned Car Kit

Aoshima is releasing the 'The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya' spec FD3S RX-7 as a 1/24 plastic model in its 'The Tuned Car' series. The kit, priced at 5,720 yen, arrives in January 2027 and marks the 20th anniversary of the TV anime broadcast. It includes water-transfer decals and new clear stickers for beginners.

Aug 29

Cyberpunk 2077 Pop-Up Store Lands at Ikebukuro PARCO From September 4

Infolens announced a Cyberpunk 2077 pop-up store at Ikebukuro PARCO Main Building 6F, running September 4 to September 14. It will sell items including the Tobisuta Cyberpunk: Edgerunners (LUCY & REBECCA) figure and a Johnny Silverhand arm replica. Purchases of 5,500 yen or more earn a random original sticker.

Aug 29

Zeta Gundam RX-178 Gundam Mk-II Kaitai Shouki Figure Opens Pre-Orders

BANDAI SPIRITS opened pre-orders on August 27 for the METAL STRUCTURE Kaitai Shouki RX-178 Gundam Mk-II (AEUG Specification) from Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam. The 310mm figure is priced at 137,500 yen and releases in January 2027. It is built from roughly 2,500 parts and features three armor forms, LED gimmicks, and a maintenance hanger base.

Aug 29

1047 Games Ends Development of Splitgate: Arena Reloaded and EMPULSE

1047 Games announced on August 27 that development of both EMPULSE and Splitgate: Arena Reloaded is ending. Dedicated servers and matchmaking for both titles shut down on September 3, with peer-to-peer play replacing them. Co-founders Ian Proulx and Nicholas Bagamian cited insufficient revenue to cover server costs, saying self-funding is no longer sustainable. The studio will pivot from live-service shooters after a decade, carrying lessons into its next project.

Aug 28

Gundam Mk-II Kaitai Shouki Model Opens Preorders at 137,500 Yen

Bandai Spirits' Collectors Division opened preorders on August 27, 2026 for the METAL STRUCTURE Kaitai Shouki RX-178 Gundam Mk-II (AEUG Specification), a top-tier finished robot figure priced at 137,500 yen including tax. The model stands approximately 310mm tall and is composed of over 2,500 parts. It reproduces the Gundam Mk-II's standard silhouette while adding original Kaitai Shouki setting gimmicks, most notably the High Mobility Combat Form, where the backpack thruster layout changes and armor panels deploy for heat dissipation imagery. The figure includes opening armor sections and a chest jack-up mechanism that exposes a spherical cockpit. A dedicated base with parts reminiscent of a catapult allows display in the launch scene pose from the series, and the set includes work arms, worker figures, and various beam effect parts. Standard equipment such as a beam rifle, hyper bazooka, vulcan pod system, and shield are included, with original arrangement options like attaching a launcher to the beam rifle or converting it to a short-barrel specification. The product uses ABS, PVC, and die-cast materials, and features light-up gimmicks in the body and base. Release is scheduled for January 2027 as a general retail product.

Aug 28

007 First Light Engine Session Reveals Glacier Platform Work at gamescom

IO Interactive detailed how its Glacier engine was modified for 007 First Light during a gamescom dev session. Executive Producer Cris Vega and Principal Core Programmer Kristofer Hammarsköld explained the engine's independent runtime, editor, and resource system, plus the Virtual Platforms feature for hardware-specific tuning. The session covered three technology pillars: Cinematic, Fluid Experience, and New Tech, including new facial animation and global illumination systems.

Aug 28

Football Manager 27 Announced for November 2026 Release

Sports Interactive and SEGA announced Football Manager 27 on August 27, 2026, with a release window of November 2026. The specific release date and supported platforms will be revealed later. The new installment is positioned as a series comeback after the turbulent launch of the previous game, Football Manager 26. That title followed the cancellation of Football Manager 25, which was scrapped due to development delays caused by the switch to the Unity engine. Some players voiced dissatisfaction with the UI adopted in Football Manager 26, and Studio Director Miles Jacobson acknowledged the studio failed to meet expectations of users accustomed to the traditional interface, saying he wants to prioritize resolving this in the new game. The policy for Football Manager 27 is to further develop the current design while reviving ideas and in-game behaviors that were well received in past titles. From September onward, the studio plans to release gameplay introductions, deep dives on key functions, commentary from the development team, and blog articles. A Steam playtest is planned, with registration open now, and details on early access for the Steam version will be announced later.

Aug 28

Holstin Targets 2027 Release With Day One Xbox Game Pass Launch

Team17 announced during the XBOX @ gamescom Broadcast 2026 on August 28 that Holstin, a psychological survival horror game developed by Polish studio Sonka, is planned for release on PC and consoles in 2027. The game will be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one of launch. Set in a rural town in eastern Poland in November 1992, the story follows protagonist Tomasz Wolanski as he searches for a missing friend and becomes caught up in an unidentified disaster. Players gather weapons and supplies, fight enemies, and extract information from residents to uncover the town's secrets. A notable feature is Sonka's proprietary "2XD Rendering" technology, which fuses pixel art with 3D camera expression. The viewpoint shifts seamlessly between isometric movement, over-the-shoulder combat, first-person driving, top-down, and side-scrolling perspectives depending on the situation. The gamescom 2026 trailer shows exploration and combat in a town covered in slime, along with the camera perspective switches. Holstin is scheduled to support Japanese display, and a demo is available on Steam. The game is slated for PC (Steam, GOG, Microsoft Store), PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch.

Aug 28

Blackwood Release Date Set for September 17

IZilla Games and AttritoM7 Productions have set a release date for BLACKWOOD, a third-person action thriller about a hitman who runs a DVD shop by day. The game launches on Steam for PC on September 17 in Japan, with a global release on September 16. Set in New York in 2012, players control Anton Blackwood, who manages a small DVD store during the day and works as a contract killer at night. The combat is described as fast and stylish, featuring dives, rolls, and slides to avoid enemy fire, along with numerous takedown moves. The DVD shop includes management elements such as restocking, inventory organization, and pricing, with profits funding the protagonist's night-time equipment. The story, influenced by Marvel works, involves a shadowy figure monitoring and manipulating Anton's double life. The game is structured as a three-part episodic release: Act 1 arrives at launch, with Act 2 and Act 3 following as free updates in 2027. The price increases with each Act: $24.99 at launch, $29.99 after Act 2, and $34.99 after Act 3.

Aug 28

Team17 Announces 4-Player Co-op Junk Tower Builder 'What Goes Up'

Publisher Team17 announced on August 28 that Bossa Games is developing 'What Goes Up', a physics-based cooperative building game. It is scheduled for release later this year on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, and will also be available on PC and Xbox Game Pass. The trailer premiered during the 'XBOX @ gamescom Broadcast 2026' Day 2 stream on August 27. Players work as employees of the waste disposal company 'Galactic Refuse', dispatched to planets littered with garbage from Earth. The objective is to stack junk into designated structures within a time limit, using tools like a gravity gun, jetpack, and bounce pad. The game supports solo play and online co-op for up to four players. Hazards include lava rivers, high voltage, meteor showers, and incompetent colleagues, but fallen workers can be revived via a 3D printer. Bossa Games, formerly Bossa Studios, previously created physics-based titles like 'Surgeon Simulator' and 'I Am Bread'. The store page lists Japanese language support as planned in-game.

Aug 28

Train Sim World 7 Launches September 15 With Freight Transport and Real-Time Weather

Dovetail Games announced Train Sim World 7 during the gamescom Opening Night Live 2026 pre-show on August 26. The latest entry in the railway simulation series will release on September 15, 2026 for PC (Steam/Epic Games Store), PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. The Automaton report notes the store page lists September 16 for Japan. The game includes routes such as Tri-Rail in Florida, the Airedale & Wharfedale Network in northern UK, and Wurzburg in Nuremberg, Germany, along with real vehicles that run on them. Players can operate trains freely, choosing any route and vehicle, or take on the role of a conductor. A new feature makes freight transport playable from the start, letting players move cargo without schedule constraints while switching tracks and rearranging trains. A weather system based on real-time location data reproduces actual local conditions. Safety systems including AWS and PZB are provided. The PC version introduces an Epic setting level with increased draw distance and improved shadows beyond the Ultra setting. DirectX 12 support includes DLSS 4.5 with DLAA and FSR 4 for upscaling and frame generation.

Aug 27

G TUNE Releases Shishiro Cup Offline Model PC, Limited to 150 Units

Mouse Computer's gaming PC brand G TUNE began selling a limited edition desktop model on August 26 to commemorate its sponsorship of the "Shishiro Cup -Offline-" event hosted by Hololive member Shishiro Botan. The "G TUNE DG-I5G70 Shishiro Cup -Offline- Sponsorship Model" is limited to 150 units and priced from 359,800 yen. Sales run from August 26 at 11:00 until October 8 at 11:00, or until the planned quantity sells out. The mini tower PC is equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor 250K Plus, an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070, 16GB of dual-channel memory, and a 1TB NVMe Gen4 x4 SSD. It runs Windows 11 Home 64-bit and supports BTO customization. As purchaser-exclusive bonuses, the model includes five types of newly recorded system voices of Shishiro Botan exclusive to this model, a mouse cursor, three original wallpapers, transfer stickers, original stickers, and a Steam download code for "Puchi Holo no Mura - Sword, Shop, and Country Life." The event itself was held in April, and G TUNE sponsored it. The product page and special page on Mouse Computer's site list the details.

Aug 27

Three Ukiyo-e Package Entry Grade Gunpla Release August 29

BANDAI SPIRITS is releasing three new Gunpla in its ENTRY GRADE series with ukiyo-e themed packaging and Japanese-pattern stickers. The RX-78-2 Gundam, Wing Gundam, and Strike Gundam all arrive on Saturday, August 29, 2026. Each kit features the series' signature touch gate design, allowing parts to be snapped off the runner by hand without nippers, and a snap-fit design that requires no adhesive. This makes the kits suitable for first-time builders. The color-coded parts produce a color scheme close to the box art when assembled. Newly included Japanese-pattern stickers let builders recreate the ukiyo-e style paint depicted on the packaging. The RX-78-2 Gundam and Strike Gundam are priced at 1,430 yen each including tax, while the Wing Gundam is 1,760 yen including tax. All three kits are 1/144 scale and include their respective weapons and a shield. BANDAI SPIRITS markets the ukiyo-e packaging as a possible souvenir for overseas customers, adding a traditional Japanese design element to the model kits. The Wing Gundam's packaging features an innovative Japanese design with wings spread when displayed on a separately sold action base.

Aug 27

Gundam x Hololive Collaboration Figures and Kaitai Shouki Gundam Mk-II Open Reservations

Bandai Spirits opened reservations on August 27, 2026 for several new items in its Tamashii Nations figure lines, including two METAL ROBOT Soul figures from the Gundam x hololive production collaboration. The METAL ROBOT Soul <SIDE MS> Nu Gundam [Sakura Miko Ver.] is priced at 24,200 yen, and the Sazabi [Hoshimachi Suisei Ver.] at 28,600 yen, both shipping in January 2027. Reservations for the Nu Gundam began at 16:00 and for the Sazabi at 17:00 on August 27. The figures feature special coloring based on the VTubers' image colors, dedicated bases, and collaboration markings. The company also opened reservations for the METAL STRUCTURE Kaitai Shouki RX-178 Gundam Mk-II (AEUG Specification), a 310mm figure priced at 137,500 yen, also shipping in January 2027. The Kaitai Shouki figure includes LED gimmicks and three armor deployment forms. These items were displayed at the Bandai / BANDAI SPIRITS booth at TOKYO TOY SHOW 2026, alongside other collaboration figures including RG RX-78-2 Gundam Ver.2.0 [HOLOLIVE PRODUCTION Ver.] and RG Crossbone Gundam X1 [Houshou Marine Ver.].

Aug 27

Hello Kitty and Hobonichi Techo 2027 Collab: 17 Items Launch September 1

Hello Kitty from Sanrio is collaborating with Hobonichi Techo 2027, releasing 17 types of planners and stationery items on September 1, 2026 at 11:00 AM. The designs use the popular Hello Kitty Classic style from the 1970s, with poses exclusive to Hobonichi Techo. The Original size (A6) and Cousin size (A5) planner covers feature Kitty playing with or reading her planner, surrounded by ribbons, apples, and her friend Joey. The weeks weekly planner uses a necktie fabric weave to express Hello Kitty's playful poses, such as sitting neatly to read or putting the planner over her face. Other items include protective covers, the upright storage pouch stappo, the flat pen case comodo, clear files, writing boards, stickers, stamps, and sticky notes. Sales channels include the Hobonichi online store, TOBICHI direct-run stores in Tokyo and Kyoto, Loft stores nationwide, Amazon, and Rakuten. Items will also be sold at the Hobonichi Techo Store opening at Gransta Tokyo on September 16. The collaboration marks Hello Kitty's first appearance in the Hobonichi Techo lineup since 2016.

Aug 21

CheLA77's Bunny Police Girls Become Figures at AmiAmi

Illustrator CheLA77's original characters Bunny Police 01 and Bunny Police 02 are now figures from Luminous Box. Pre-orders are open at AmiAmi for 27,700 yen each, with release scheduled for June 2027. Both 1/6 scale figures feature the characters' plump, curvaceous body lines.

Aug 21

Komatsu Die-Cast Models of Excavator, Bulldozer, Grader Set for September

First Gear will release three 1/50 scale painted die-cast finished models of Komatsu construction machinery, imported and sold by Platz in September 2026. The lineup includes the compact hydraulic excavator PC78US-11, the large bulldozer D475A-8, and the motor grader GD955-7, each with moving parts and detailed interiors.

Aug 21

007 First Light Sales Pass 4 Million in About 3 Months

IO Interactive announced on August 20 that sales of its James Bond game 007 First Light have surpassed 4 million units. The game launched on May 27 and sold 1.5 million copies on its first day, then held that pace to reach the milestone in roughly three months. The studio posted the figure on its official website and on social media, thanking players for joining Bond's return to gaming. 007 First Light is an action-adventure title developed and published by IO Interactive, the studio behind the Hitman series. It is the first new Bond game in about 14 years, following 007 Legends from 2012. The project was announced under the working title Project 007 in November 2020, and the official name was revealed in June 2025. The story is an original origin tale not based on any film or novel, starring Patrick Gibson as a young James Bond, a Royal Navy aviator recruited by MI6 who earns his 00 status while training in the revived 00 Section. The game is available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam, Epic Games Store, and Microsoft Store, with a Nintendo Switch 2 version planned.

Aug 20

Bus Simulator 27 Multiplayer Trailer Shows 4-Player Cooperative Play

astragon Entertainment and Simteract released a multiplayer trailer for Bus Simulator 27, showcasing cooperative play for up to four players. Set in Felicia Bay, the game features over 45 licensed buses from 13 manufacturers. It launches September 8 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S with cross-platform play.

Aug 20

Fallout 76 Gen 9 Boost Update Arrives September 15

Bethesda Game Studios announced the 'The Slasher' update for Fallout 76, launching September 15. It introduces Gen 9 Boost for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, with native versions, performance and stability improvements across all consoles, plus new content and a legacy seasons system. The update is free.

Aug 20

AMA JAPAN Launches With 2027 Audition for Models Ages 18 to 70

The Asia Model Association Japan Central Association (AMA JAPAN) has been established as the Japan base of the Korea-headquartered Asia Model Association. It will hold the 2027 AMA JAPAN AUDITION starting August 2026, recruiting women in two age categories. Grand prix winners earn the right to represent AMA JAPAN at the 2027 Seoul event.

Aug 20

Gran Turismo 7 Update 1.71 Adds Toyota Mark II, Chaser, Ioniq 6 N, Caterham

Sony Interactive Entertainment released Gran Turismo 7 update 1.71 on August 20 at 15:00 JST. The free update adds four cars: the Toyota Mark II Tourer V '97, Toyota Chaser Tourer V '97, Hyundai Ioniq 6 N '25, and Caterham Seven Superlight R500 '08. New race events and a Scapes feature are also planned.