No new major consoles were released, but updates and upgrades were: the New Nintendo 3DS was released in Japan and Oceania, and Sony released new model 2000 PS Vita systems in Europe & North America. Amazon purchased the online video game streaming service Twitch, and Facebook acquired the virtual reality company and product Oculus. Nintendo released Amiibo in 2014, companion figurines that could be scanned by the 3DS and Wii U systems. On Twitter and other Internet social media, the Gamergate controversy began.

Justin Carmical, 42, retro game enthusiast known online as JewWario, died.

Harold Ramis, 69, actor, writer, and director who created the Ghostbusters franchise and co-wrote the 2009 video game, died.

The Ultimate Warrior, 54, pro wrestler who appeared in WWE games (cover star of WWF WrestleMania Challenge, WWF European Rampage Tour, WWF Superstars, and WWE All Stars), died.

Robin Williams, 63, actor who appeared in ads for The Legend of Zelda alongside his daughter whose name originates from the series, died.

Ralph H. Baer, 92, game designer credited for creating the first home console, died.

Christine Cavanaugh, 51, voice actor best known for the voice of Chuckie in the Rugrats franchise, died.