In an impressive display of employee appreciation, Shift Up Corporation has once again set a high bar for corporate gifts by presenting every one of its 300 employees with Apple AirPods Max, an Apple Watch, and a generous bonus of 5 million KRW. This initiative not only highlights the company’s commitment to its workforce but also reflects its successful year in the gaming industry, particularly with hits like “Goddess of Victory: Nikke” and “Stellar Blade.

In a shocking turn of events, hardware sales and physical game spending in the US have hit their lowest point in 30 years this November. According to Circana, only 1.6 million units of video game hardware were sold, marking a significant drop from previous years and the lowest since 1995. This decline is attributed to a combination of high average prices for new consoles, which reached an all-time high of $439, and a general downturn in consumer spending.

Konami’s recent earnings reveal a significant shift in the gaming landscape, with eFootball driving rich cash flows that are set to fuel further expansion in their console game lineup. This strategic pivot towards live service games has not only stabilized profits but has also positioned Konami as a formidable player in an ever-evolving market. The company’s transition from traditional console hits to a focus on live service models has proven to be a wise move.