Archived News:

Saturday, Jun 07, 2025

ILL Trailer

Team Clout and Mundfish Powerhouse offer a new Official Trailer for ILL, a survival/horror first-person shooter. The game previously revealed (not here) for PC, and the trailer reveals it is also coming to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The trailer lives up to the horror genre as it features grotesque enemies and disturbingly realistic graphics. It doesn't have a release date, but its Steam Listing is live. Here's the description:

ILL is a realistic first-person action survival horror game that challenges even the most seasoned fans of the genre. The game plunges you into a grim world with an eerie, atmospheric story where every minute keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The game developers are horror experts and have experience working with well-known directors. Their work can be seen in various movies and series like Longlegs, Until Dawn, V/H/S/Beyond, It: Welcome to Derry, Azrael, and more. Now, the team is aiming to fulfill their dream and create a game that will claw its way into your consciousness and expose your true fears layer by layer.
Continue here to read the full story.

Acts of Blood Demo

A World Premiere Trailer for Acts of Blood introduces this brawling game coming from a solo developer. As the title suggests, this is not afraid to spill some blood. It features third-person fighting where you take on multiple opponents, though most of them stand around waiting their turn while you fight one of them, a technique familiar from many action movies. This is coming to Steam next summer, but there's a playable demo to try right now. Here are some bloody deets:

In the bustling city of Bandung, Hendra's life torn apart when his family is slain by his father's business rival. Left alone and seeking justice, the college law student finds no help from the corrupt legal system that protects the killers. Discovering a powerful group behind the attack, Hendra decides to take revenge himself, determined to make them pay for their actions.

Players will play as the protagonist, Hendra. Engaging in fast-paced, hand-to-hand combat against waves of enemies across various levels. The objective is to defeat all foes, including powerful boss characters on each level, using brutal combat movements, various melee & firearm weapons.
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Chrono Odyssey Closed Beta Next Week

The Summer Game Fest 2025 Trailer for Chrono Odyssey offers a look at this MMORPG coming from Kakao Games and Chrono Studio. Word is the game "redefines time and space," so be sure to keep your bearings. In addition to showing off its "foreboding tone and cosmic horror," the trailer reveals plans for a PC closed beta test for Windows that will run for 72 hours starting on June 10th. Interested players can register for that right now on Steam. "Everything in Chrono Odyssey is about how time—and the loss of it—shapes the world and its fate," said Sangtae Yoon, Executive Producer. "This new trailer is a narrative invitation to players. The first closed beta is your chance to experience that world for yourself. We can’t wait to see what players think." Here's more on what's described as a next-generation action MMORPG:

Game features include awe-inspiring visuals powered by Unreal Engine 5, a vast and intricately designed seamless open world, dynamic action-based combat mechanics based on time manipulation and extensive customization.

A seamless and unrestricted exploration of any terrain is offered by Chrono Odyssey thanks to its open world concept. It also features many different biomes, including grasslands, snowlands, swamps, and more. The adventure through the world of Chrono Odyssey offers much to explore.
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Killer Inn Announced

Square Enix announces Killer Inn, an asymmetrical multiplayer game for up to 25 players that will put their social deduction skills to the test to solve a murder mystery. It has a Steam Listing with signups for a closed beta test, though this post about the test has a FAQ saying it's not yet known when this will begin. The Announcement Trailer clarifies that this is no ordinary inn, but rather some sort of "ancient white castle" that's not on any map. This promises action as well as deduction, presenting the idea that the killer is one of the players as "the twist." Here's more:

Welcome to the hallowed halls of KILLER INN. You have been chosen as one of the select few to participate in a one-night-only game of death, deceit, and deduction.

Will you be given the role of a wolf, to hunt among the shadows? Or will you be a lamb, but with the ability and means to fight back?

Trust no one. Question everything. The killers are hiding in plain sight—and they might just be your closest "allies."
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Scott Pilgrim EX Announced

Tribute Games announces Scott Pilgrim EX, an upcoming video game based on the Scott Pilgrim graphic novels created by Bryan Lee O’Malley. This is an adventure/brawler for up to four players promising a "time-warped" adventure set in a reimagined version of Toronto when it arrives next year for PC and consoles. For a look, check out the reveal trailer and the listing on Steam. Here's word:

Scott Pilgrim EX is an action-adventure game where players can fight as Scott Pilgrim, Ramona Flowers and more as they battle through the fractured time and space of Toronto. The combat gameplay is driven by instinct and improvisation - a hectic ballet of fists and flair that rewards strategy, spontaneity, and a good bit of brawling chaos. String together stylish combos, experiment with wacky weapons and unleash over-the-top special attacks. Characters can be upgraded with special badges that enhance their stats and grant special bonuses. Players will explore a whole city of interconnected levels to meet old and new faces, complete quests, and discover hidden areas. Multiplayer co-op, local or online, lets up to four players join in on the action, making it a fun, dynamic experience.
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Relooted Announced

Nyamakop announces Relooted, a futuristic action/platformer for PC and Xbox that will flip the script on Indiana Jones, as the player works to recover African artifacts from Western museums. The Announcement Trailer shows off rapid action and slick parkour aspects, and asks the pertinent question: "Is it stealing to take back what was stolen?" Listings on the Epic Games Store and Steam are live, showing a "coming soon" release window and this description:

Near the end of the 21st century, the political powers that be brokered a Transatlantic Returns Treaty, promising the repatriation of African artifacts from museums. Good old fashioned diplomacy was working — until it wasn’t. An amendment switched up the terms and conditions of which objects were to be returned. Museums, now knowing that only publicly displayed artifacts would be given back, were slowly removing artifacts from public display.

When life gives you lemons and museums pulling shady moves, it’s time to chuck the lemons back at life and try a new, stealthier form of diplomacy. You’ve got 70 of these artifacts to (re)loot, all of which exist in real-life and are of huge cultural, historical, and spiritual significance to the people they were taken from.
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Blade & Soul Heroes in September

Summer Game Fest 2025 Trailer for Blade & Soul Heroes reveals this MMORPG is coming to Western audiences. It's a story-driven collectable game promising both turn-based and real-time combat. The Steam Listing says it will launch in September and offers this description:

Journey with Yusol as she strives to rebuild her clan and enact justice against those who destroyed it. Follow her as she pursues the evil Yi Chun and unravels the mysteries of the Heaven's Fall Cult. Along the way, she’ll encounter an expansive cast of heroes, each with their own skills and story, who will join her resurgent clan and unite in the fight to defeat Yi Chun and Heaven’s Fall.
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Into The Unwell Announced

Developer She Was Such A Good Horse (and they say all the good names are taken) and publisher Coffee Stain announce Into The Unwell, a Matchbox Twenty-free roguelite "coming soon" to PC via Steam. Those interested can sign up now for a planned beta test. As seen in the World Premiere Trailer this features graphics based on the classic early days of animated cartoons. Word is this will also support co-op:

Play alone or with up to two friends as you get to know the strange inhabitants of this rubber hose world, find ways to help them, and perhaps become a little less unwell along the way. Embark on your spirit quest seeking self-control and find victory through your vices as you embrace chaos and fight your way through The Unwell. Along the way, you’ll encounter bizarre bosses, quirky characters and surreal surroundings in this cartoonish, fever dream action roguelite.
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LEGO Voyagers Announced

Light Brick Studio, Annapurna Interactive, and the LEGO Group announce LEGO Voyagers, a LEGO adventure coming later this year to PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and Switch. The Windows edition will be on the Epic Games Store and Steam. It will support two-player co-op with a friend's pass system that requires only one player to own the game. Check out the Reveal Trailer for a look, and read on for more:

From the makers of LEGO® Builder's Journey comes a new 2-player co-op adventure about friendship and play. When two friends make it their mission to rescue an abandoned spaceship, they embark on a journey beyond their wildest dreams, ultimately learning the value of being connected.
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LEGO Party! Announced

Once you're done with your LEGO Voyage you may be in the mood for a LEGO Party!, which is the title of another new game based on the enduringly popular plastic bricks. A part needs guests, so this is a multiplayer affair with support for up to four players when it comes to PC and consoles later this year. The Reveal Trailer takes a first look, and the Steam Listing is online with the following description:

LEGO(R) Party! is a 4-player party game that's built different! Compete against your friends in wacky Challenge Zones and 60 hilarious minigames from across your favorite LEGO sets like Pirates, Space, NINJAGO® and more. Play your way! Join your friends no matter their platform locally or online!
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Fractured Blooms Announced

Serenity Forge announces Fractured Blooms is coming to PC with a "to be announced release date." On the surface this is a cozy life sim, but as the World Premiere Trailer reveals this serenity is a forgery (see what we did there?). As the title implies, some cracks may appear while you stop to smell the roses. Strangely, this seemingly sinister undercurrent is barely hinted at in the description on Steam. But the announcement press release tells a different story:

Fractured Blooms’ deep narrative of trauma and abuse unfolds through an interconnected time loop where wits and resources are vital to uncovering the truth. While cozy on the surface, an unsettling force emerges the deeper you fall into the loop. Time begins to fracture, memories resurface, and your house starts to reveal its true horrors. Discover what you’re really trying to keep alive.
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Dosa Divas Announced

A Steam Lising is online for Dosa Divas, a "spicy narrative" turn based RPG just announced by Outerloop Games for release next year. Proving you can mash-up just about anything, this combines cooking and mechs for an unusual combo platter. The Announcement Trailer takes a look. Read on to see if this is the recipe for success:

Outerloop Games delivers Dosa Divas - a spicy narrative turn-based RPG. After years apart, sisters Samara and Amani journey with their ancient spirit-mech on a mission to defeat a rotten fast food empire and reconnect communities with their traditions. Platform through vibrant villages, battle corporate goons, reconcile with loved ones, and eat one last meal together before saying goodbye.
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Felt That: Boxing Announced

Sans Strings Studio announces Felt That: Boxing, a comedy boxing game coming to PC with a "to be announced" release date. This has an odd twist, as your boxers are all puppets, and as seen in the World Premiere Trailer (NSFW), their resemblance to Muppets makes one wonder if this might have to fight things out in court. Here's the Steam Listing and here's an explanation:

Felt That: Boxing is a heartfelt and hilarious boxing game where the charm of furry puppets meets the fury of arcade fighting. Step into the shoes of Ezra “Fuzz-E” Wright, an unadoptable orphan turned prizefighter, as he throws down in the “Tournament of a Million Punches” to save his beloved puppet orphanage from ruthless demolition.
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Out of Words Announced

The Epic Games Store now lists Out of Words, another puppet inspired adventure revealed at the Summer Game Fest by puppet fan Geoff Keighley. As seen in the World Premiere Trailer, this Windows game features stop-motion animation for a distinctive look and feel. It also promises co-op support when it arrives, which is said to be "soon." Here's the pitch:

Find your lost voices in a co-op platformer adventure. Together with a friend, via online cross-platform or couch co-op, explore the wild, colorful realm of Vokabulantis as Kurt and Karla in a story about the first time they held hands — where everything you see is crafted by hand.

From puppet masters, to programmers to poets; this is the unique game development team behind Out of Words. From the mind of acclaimed poet Morten Søndergaard, co-developers WiredFly and Kong Orange carefully designed and crafted each stop-motion character, environment, and co-op mechanic to tell a story with a distinctly human touch.
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Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree

Bandai Namco Entertainment and Brownies announce Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree, an anime roguelite action game coming on September 18th according to Steam or on September 19th, according to the Announcement Trailer. The clip features gameplay footage and babytalk narration to give a sense of what to expect. Word is:

In this Roguelite adventure set in a far-off mystic realm, ancient forces stir, and untold dangers await. As Towa, lead the guardians of the sacred tree in forging strong relationships and powerful swords to fight Magatsu’s forces and determine the future of Shinju Village.
Continue here to read the full story.

More Game Releases

  • Vending Dokan!: Kozy Kiosk on Steam (Windows). "Build a vending machine empire in this cozy idle sim! Manage staff, decorate locations, and watch your business thrive. Play actively or let it run passively in the background with relaxing music to enjoy while you work or unwind."

Demos and Freebies

  • BALL x PIT Demo on Steam (Windows, macOS). "Get a taste of BALL x PIT, a brick-breaking, ball-fusing, base-building survival roguelite. Batter hordes of enemies with ricocheting balls and gather the riches of the pit to expand your homestead, generate resources and recruit unique heroes in this hair-raising demo."
  • Bloom - a puzzle adventure on Steam (Windows, macOS, Linux). "Embark on a charming puzzle adventure with Arya and her dog Bo as you tackle clever puzzles and vibrant worlds! Explore a playful story, solve hundreds of puzzles with chain reactions, then dive into endless fun—build, share, and play unlimited community-made levels."
  • Bouncemasters Demo on Steam (Windows). "Launch a penguin across the globe! Whack, bounce, and soar through crazy obstacles in this fun physics-based arcade game, inspired by the legendary Yetisports! Escape the North Pole and find love - or just keep failing hilariously."
  • Gold Gold Adventure Gold on Steam (Windows). "Gold makes god. Embrace city-building chaos. Pet giant monsters! Watch puny adventurers! Bend nature to your will with powerful spells and the greatest of all forces of nature - GOLD. Colony sim / reverse RPG."
  • Leaf Blower Co. on Steam (Windows). "Blow your leaves and your cares away in this chilled out work sim. Build up your business, buy new tools, and unlock upgrades - all while watching the leaves fly. After all, one man’s trash is another man’s cash."
  • Mina the Hollower on Steam (Windows). "Take control of Mina, a renowned Hollower hurtled into a desperate mission to rescue a cursed island. Whip foes, burrow through the ground, and explore a pixel-perfect world in Mina the Hollower, a brand new game from the developers who brought you Shovel Knight!"
  • The Prisoning: Fletcher's Quest Demo on Steam (Windows, macOS). "After a visit to the psychologist that went horribly wrong you’re trapped in the mind of a game developer on the brink of physical and emotional burnout during the last stages of an intense project. Experience a metroidvania drenched in anxiety based on a very true story."
  • Ratatan Demo on Steam (Windows). "Ratatan is a rhythm roguelike action game that combines rhythm games and side-scrolling action, with online co-op gameplay supporting up to 4 players. An intense battle unfolds with over 100 characters fighting in a massive melee. Let's defeat the enemies together!"

On Sale

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Out of the Blue

It's another big day at the Big Bear Bald Eagle Nest, where Gizmo fledged this morning! The moment arrives at around 08:27:45 on the video timestamp and it's immortalized in this snippet (thanks Frans). The flight looks pretty unintentional. She was doing wingers on a tiny branch, took too much air, and failed to stick the landing. Thankfully, she quickly got to flying, but that's not a huge surprise, since she's a bird and all. Checking out Cam 2 at the same time shows she managed a somewhat shaky flight to another tree, making her a full-fledged fledgling. Hopefully this will all work out okay, but she seems stranded since then (it's been a few hours now), and while her parents have found her, it's not clear what will happen next.

Full-fledged Round-up
Thanks Ant, Neutronbeam, and Max.

Science

Media

Friday, Jun 06, 2025 National Donut Day (USA) - World Tetris Day

Resident Evil Requiem Announced

Capcom announces Resident Evil Requiem, a new installment in its long-shambling survival/horror series, saying it will bring PC and console gamers under its Umbrella on Feb 27, 2026. The Reveal Trailer (NSFW) takes a first look, offering this chilling outlook: "Requiem for the dead. Nightmare for the living." Here's are some details including word that the glossy coat of sweat in the clip consists of "high-fidelity sweat droplets":

Unveiled at Summer Game Fest 2025, Resident Evil Requiem, the ninth and most immersive mainline entry yet in the iconic survival horror Resident Evil™ series, will launch on February 27, 2026, across PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. Powered by RE ENGINE and harnessing the full power of modern consoles, Resident Evil Requiem delivers spine-chilling realism like never before, with complex character details like lifelike facial expressions, realistic skin textures, and even high-fidelity sweat droplets that are sure to keep players on the edge of their seats. Resident Evil Requiem takes the series back to the iconic Raccoon City, home of the biological disaster that shook the world, combining deeply terrifying aspects of psychological horror with pulse-pounding action that franchise fans know and love.
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Splitgate 2 Launches with Battle Royale

Splitgate 2 is now live, and the portal-powered first-person shooter sequel is free-to-play for Windows on the Epic Games Store and Steam as well as for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The Launch Announcement celebrating the occasion arrived a few days ago. But there is a surprise here, as the launch includes a battle royale mode that's been a secret up to this point. A Battle Royale Official Launch Trailer introduces this last player standing mode and this post on Reddit discusses it further. Here's the official description:

Splitgate 2 is the only free-to-play shooter with portals, delivering next-level gunplay, fluid movement, and a constantly evolving experience, featuring a new Battle Royale where you can portal between unique worlds. Welcome to the future of sport.

Fluid Movement: Outsmart and outmaneuver with the power of portals. Chain your portals, dodge danger, and pull off plays impossible in any other game using momentum-based movement and teleportation tactics.
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Lies of P: Overture Launches

The Lies of P: Overture expansion is now available for PC and consoles as a surprise launch announced during today's Summer Game Fest broadcast. This prequel requires the base version of the soulslike action/RPG, and the Windows and macOS edition is on Steam. The Launch Trailer is here with a look at gameplay, and here's the pitch:

Lies of P: Overture is a dramatic prequel to the acclaimed soulslike action RPG, Lies of P. It transports you to the city of Krat in its final days of haunting, late-19th-century Belle Époque beauty. On the brink of the Puppet Frenzy massacre, you follow a legendary Stalker—a mysterious guide—through untold stories and chilling secrets. As Geppetto’s deadly puppet, you’ll journey through Krat and its surroundings, uncover hidden backstories, and face epic battles that shape the past and future of Lies of P.
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Mortal Shell II Announced

The Summer Game Fest kicked off with the announcement of Mortal Shell II, a sequel to the third-person hack-and-slash action/RPG coming to PC and consoles in 2026. The Official Announcement Trailer shows off the game's gothic horror (if not torture porn) setting and truly brutal combat. It also points the way to the Mortal Shell Website, where you can sign up for an upcoming closed beta test. The Steam Listing is live, and here's word:

Mortal Shell II is a standalone sequel to Mortal Shell that significantly expands on the original with unrestricted, adrenaline-charged combat, deeper weapon design with extensive upgrade options, and an emphasis on free exploration. This action-RPG offers an immersive, interconnected open world, expansive yet deliberately compact, designed to unfold its twisted landscapes and hidden structures while respecting the player's time.
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Jurassic World Evolution 3 Announced

Frontier Developments announces Jurassic World Evolution 3, a next installment in the theme park management series will launch for PC and consoles on October 21st. This once again proves that life finds a way. And speaking of Dr. Ian Malcolm, the Announcement Trailer leans into the most memorable (non reptile) character in the movies with narration from none other than Jeff Goldblum. The Windows edition is coming to the Epic Games Store and Steam and you can preorder right now if you're afraid they're going to run out or something. Here's what to expect, subject to the whims of chaos theory:

Help life find a way by synthesising, breeding, and nurturing prehistoric species. Manage each species and allow them to thrive, while helping your dinosaurs raise families and pass their genes onto future generations.

Create incredible havens for your dinosaurs to help them flourish, build exciting new attractions to amaze guests, and maintain control when disaster inevitably strikes.
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HITMAN World of Assassination James Bond Crossover

IO Interactive announces Casino Royale villain Le Chiffre is Agent 47s latest Elusive Target in a James Bond crossover in HITMAN World of Assassination. Since you only live twice, the in-game character is being reprised by acclaimed Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen, recreating his role from the movie. This update is live right now, so players have one month from today to add this notch to their belts. IO Interactive is currently developing a James Bond game called 007 First Light, and word is knocking off Le Chiffre will unlock an exclusive reward in that when it's released. Here's the Launch Trailer and here's the deal:

Mads Mikkelsen returns as Le Chiffre, the iconic private banker to the criminal underworld, known for his mastery of games of chance and probability. A recent failed venture left him in dire straits, losing vast sums of both legitimate and illicit capital, and in a desperate bid to recover, he has arranged a high-stakes poker game at the Casino Monarchique in Paris. Agent 47 has been tasked with infiltrating the perilous event and will have to find his way to his target to prevent havoc being wreaked across the world.

To celebrate the recent reveal of 007 First Light, players who play The Banker Elusive Target and who have signed up for an IOI account will receive an exclusive suit to redeem in 007 First Light, IO Interactive’s immersive third-person action-adventure featuring an all-new, original James Bond story, scheduled to launch in 2026. (The Casino Suit will be visible on the players’ IOI Account profile at a later stage).
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Dying Light: The Beast in August

Techland announces August 22nd is the official release date for Dying Light: The Beast for PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5. The news is celebrated with a trailer (NSFW) with the first look at the open-world survival/horror gameplay in the zombie-infested sequel. Preorders are underway, and a free bonus "Hero of Hakkan" bundle is being dangled as an incentive. Word is this continuation of an existing series in a crowded genre manages to be "unique":

You are Kyle Crane. After being captured by the Baron and enduring his painful experiments for years, you escape. Left on the edge of humanity with both human and zombie DNA, you struggle to control your inner beast and the conflict that comes with it. But you’ll need to, if you want to get your revenge on the man who did this to you.

A unique blend of open world and action survival horror, Dying Light: The Beast is set in the beautiful, yet dangerous valley of Castor Woods that’s now overrun with zombies rather than tourists. To take your former captor down, you’ll need to form fragile alliances, as well as utilize all the combat and traversal options in your arsenal.
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Atomic Heart II Announced

Mundfish announces Atomic Heart II, an upcoming sequel to its alternate-history action/RPG/FPS. This return to the Soviet take on BioShock is shown off in this trailer that turns the batshit up to 11, and you know a publisher is all-in when they spring to license a Queen song. The game can now be wishlisted on Steam, where there's this description:

Atomic Heart 2 is an action-adventure role-playing game set in a living world, rich with possibilities and a heavy emphasis on the story, role-playing elements, and player freedom. The sequel to Atomic Heart relates new events unfolding in the retrofuturistic universe of an alternate history. This time, the action takes place on a global scale.

Get ready for dangerous new adventures that will redefine the gameplay experience and raise the bar for the genre's capabilities!
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The CUBE Announced

Speaking of Atomic Heart, a Steam Listing is online for The CUBE, an MMORPG/FPS set in the Atomic Heart universe in the works at Mundfish. In this players are forced to contend with the appearance of a mysterious levitating cube (monoliths are so 2001) and the surprises it carries. Here's a World Premiere Trailer from Summer Game Fest 2025. The game's initial description is scant:

The CUBE is a multiplayer RPG-shooter that blends unique world-building, an intriguing narrative, and exciting quests into one game. A living world full of memorable characters, diverse biomes, and tons of enemies, including powerful bosses, awaits you.
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Game of Thrones: War for Westeros Announced

A new trailer shows off Game of Thrones: War for Westeros, a real-time strategy game based on the Game of Thrones TV series. The clip features some beats familiar from the show, including the fact that Jon Snow knows nothing. There's no word on whether George R.R. Martin is involved in production, but he doesn't seem to pass on many such opportunities. Here's the Steam Listing, and while the listed details are sparse, there's a Developer Diary digging into what to expect when you hit the battlefield. Here's the elevator pitch:

Classic real-time strategy in the world of Westeros. Conquer the Seven Kingdoms solo, or in treacherous free-for-all multiplayer. Command the Great Houses, rally iconic heroes, and rewrite the fate of the realm. Do you have the strength to seize the Iron Throne?
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Chronicles: Medieval Announced

Chronicles: Medieval is unveiled in this Summer Game Fest 2025 Trailer for this sandbox/RPG set in the muddy, bloody conflicts of the medieval era. The clip shares the personal perspective of a participant who sounds suspiciously like Tom Hardy. It and the game's Steam Listing say this will come to Early Access next year. Here's more:

Chronicles: Medieval throws you into a sprawling, dynamic sandbox in a brutal and beautiful European medieval world. Begin at the bottom, armed with nothing but grit and will. Earn your name in skirmishes, field battles, and sieges where every fight is a step towards more power. Build your castles, then hold them against those who would tear them down. Dominate the battlefield with ruthless melee actions, gear up, and adapt your tactics to crush anything the fight throws at you. Shape your destiny in a living, breathing realm where every decision echoes through history and every sword swing could change your fate.
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End of Abyss Announced

The Epic Games Store has a listing for End of Abyss, a sci-fi/horror shooter in development at Section 9 for release on the Epic Games Store sometime next year. The World Premiere Trailer shows this is heavy on creepy atmosphere. The description explains that's because it's set in one of those abandoned bases that just scream out to be explored:

In the depths of a mysterious underground compound, a mission to investigate disturbances of unknown origin spirals into a harrowing descent through a broken and abandoned world. Play as the young combat technician, Cel, as she uncovers the truth behind the facility’s derelict areas and confronts the monstrous creatures that roam them.
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Wu-Tang: Rise of the Deceiver Announced

Staten Island's in the house, as a World Premiere Trailer from Summer Game Fest 2025 reveals Wu-Tang: Rise of the Deceiver, a new action game steeped in Afro-surrealism and anime starring the rap group. It has a listing on the Epic Games Store saying it's "coming soon," while the Steam Listing says its release window is "to be announced." The description references a possible movie tie-in which might influence the release date: "Wu-Tang: Rise of the Deceiver was initially conceived as a tie-in to Angel of Dust, an upcoming supernatural thriller produced by Ghostface Killah, to be directed by the RZA under AOD Films." Here's more:

To save their home of Shaolin, the Wu-Tang Clan must pass on their fantastical powers to a new generation of warriors.

You’ve been called to battle back the forces of an invading, corrupting force - the Deceiver. You and your friends will fight alongside the Wu-Tang Clan, calling on their powerful skills and timeless wisdom to restore Shaolin to a beacon of hope, community, and prosperity.
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Last Flag Announced

Night Street Games announces Last Flag, a 5v5 third-person shooter with classic Capture the Flag gameplay. This is coming to PC in 2026 according to its Steam Listing. A Summer Game Fest 2025 Trailer takes a look at characters and animations very reminiscent of Team Fortress 2. Here's what to expect:

Last Flag is Capture the Flag, reimagined as a fun-first, fast-paced, third-person team shooter. Master powerful contestants, explore striking battlegrounds, and find your very own playstyle as you compete for glory in the world’s hottest gameshow. You’ve got 60 seconds to find a sneaky hiding spot for your flag—after that, it’s SHOWTIME! Work with your allies to take control of the map and stop the other team from finding your flag, all while hunting down theirs. The first team to bring home the opposing flag and successfully defend it claims the glory.
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CODE VEIN II Announced

Bandai Namco announces CODE VEIN II, an action/RPG sequel coming to PC and consoles in 2026. This is shown off in the Announcement Trailer, which takes a lot of time talking about time before showing off some combat. If you want to add this to your wishlist, its Steam Listing is live, offering the following description:

In a future world where humans and Revenants coexist... Due to the sudden appearance of the Luna Rapacis, Revenants have transformed into mindless monsters called Horrors. As a Revenant hunter, the player shall halt the world's inevitable collapse by traveling to the past with a girl called Lou who possesses the power to manipulate time. An epic adventure awaits, where you and your chosen partners explore a vast world, face fierce battles against powerful enemies, and uncover an epic story that transcends time.
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Bloodgrounds Announced; Demo Released

Daedalic Entertainment and Exordium Game announce Bloodgrounds, a turn-based RPG coming to Windows later this year. Do you like games about gladiators, Joey? Because in this the player is a wealthy former gladiator who is now a patron of the games, commanding a roster of combatants. A trailer is here with a first look, and there's a playable demo on Steam to experience firsthand. Here's more, revealing your character's secret agenda:

Bloodgrounds blends brutal, tactical grid combat with deep squad management, RPG progression, and roguelite elements. Players step into the sandals of a once-enslaved gladiator turned wealthy patron, commanding teams of physical, ranged, and magical fighters across blood-soaked arenas.

Prepare for a challenge — every gladiator’s death is permanent, their loss reshaping your path to vengeance against the tyrannical Emperor ruling the desolate city of Marevento.

With a striking visual style combining dark fantasy and gritty pixel-art gore, Bloodgrounds is set to captivate fans of XCOM, Darkest Dungeon, Heroes of Might and Magic, Into the Breach, and Battle Brothers — players who crave deep tactical gameplay and meaningful long-term progression.
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Project Century Becomes STRANGER THAN HEAVEN

SEGA announces STRANGER THAN HEAVEN is the new official title of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's martial arts action game announced last year with the title Project Century. That announcement revealed a game set in Japan in 1915, which seemed odd, since Japan participated in World War I. Following the name change, word is STRANGER THAN HEAVEN is set in Japan in 1943, which is at least as curious, because the country was all-in on World War II at the time. The Title Reveal Teaser Trailer has no indication that a war is underway (it even features an American), but perhaps that will eventually be explained. Here's the description from the clip:

The official title of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's "Project Century" announced at The Game Awards 2024 has been revealed as STRANGER THAN HEAVEN.

This Title Reveal Teaser Trailer offers another glimpse into the game’s world.

STRANGER THAN HEAVEN is a brand-new title developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio, known for creating acclaimed series such as Yakuza™, Like a Dragon™ and Virtua Fighter™.

Rewinding MIXTAPE

A Summer Game Fest 2025 Trailer for MIXTAPE catches us up on a coming of age adventure from Annapurna Interactive coming this year to PC and consoles. The video celebrates the musical aspect of this reflected in the title, as the soundtrack features classic new wave tunes from back in the day. The list of artists includes DEVO, Roxy Music, Lush, The Smashing Pumpkins, Iggy Pop, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Joy Division, The Cure, and more. Here's word on the nostalgia trip contained within this nostalgia trip:

En route to their final party together, a perfectly curated playlist draws three friends into dreamlike reenactments of their formative memories. Experience a variety of narrative vignettes exploring the pivotal moments that shaped them. Players will immerse themselves in the teenage wasteland by playing through a mixtape of joyful gameplay, from skateboarding and flying to taking photos after hours at an abandoned theme park, hitting baseballs, and putting on a fireworks show from the backseat of a car. It's the greatest hits of the teenage experience, from the first kiss to the last dance.
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Onimusha: Way of the Sword Next Year

The Summer Game Fest 2025 Trailer for Onimusha: Way of the Sword is another catch-up, as it shows this coming to PC, and we thought it was console only. It has a Steam Listing which only narrows the release of this martial arts action game to sometime next year. If there's one clear takeaway from the description, it is that there will be blood:

Fight through bloodstained battlefields of intense swordplay action. Explore the historic Japanese capital of Edo-era Kyoto, twisted by malevolent clouds of Malice. With every stage cloaked in mystery, danger and intrigue. Battle against monstrosities from the underworld known as Genma in a tale of dark fantasy. Follow the tale of a samurai who wields the Oni Gauntlet, a mystical artifact that grants its bearer the power to slay Genma. Through gritty, blood-soaked brawls, he searches for his reason to fight. What fate awaits at the end of his path?
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Blighted Announced

Guacamelee! developer Drinkbox Studios announces Blighted, an upcoming metroidvania action/RPG coming to PC and console in 2026. The sonorous Announce Trailer introduces what it calls its "largest and most ambitious game to date." Word is this "psychedelic western nightmare" will include co-op support:

Blighted is a brand new Metroidvania Action-RPG where players, alone or in co-op, battle their way through a psychedelic western nightmare to reclaim the memories of their people. Harnessing “Blight” by defeating enemies will change the world around you, modifying combat encounters, unlocking hidden paths, and more. Award-winning composer Jim Guthrie (Sword & Sworcery, BELOW, Nobody Saves the World) is also back as composer on the game, lending his skills to create an eerie feel to this devastated world.
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Infinitesimals Announced

World Premiere Trailer from Summer Game Fest 2025 introduces the chance to get small in Infinitesimals, an upcoming Windows game featuring tactical third-person combat set on a Land of the Giants-style planet where you and your crew are the size of insects. It's "coming soon" to the Epic Games Store, and here's a bit to put a bug in your ear:

Play as the leader of an elite alien squadron stranded on a mysterious planet after a catastrophic crash. Barely the size of an insect, you must navigate an enormous world filled with towering terrain, local wildlife and deadly machines. As you search for the missing members of your team and uncover the fate of the vanished colony you were meant to join, you’ll face the relentless threat of the Hunter Gatherers, the mechanical sentinels that dominate the landscape.
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PC Neptunia Game Maker R-Evolution This Year

Idea Factory announces a Windows edition of Neptunia Game Maker R-Evolution, saying this "quirky and meta RPG" will launch this year on Steam, where the listing says "coming soon." In this, rival game makers strive to outdo each other, and you are tasked with reviving the fortunes of a defunct gaming studio to compete in a game industry so prominent, the planet is named Gamindustri. If you're worried that this won't be Japanese enough, here's the musical Opening Movie Trailer, which suggests that the male population of Gamindustri is zero. Read on for more:

In a world of powerful rival Game Makers...

Within the Game Maker world, in order to acquire Shares, Game Makers have started to wage a battle for supremacy.

And so, a new Game Maker steps into the fray, attempting to endure the battle for survival in Gamindustri.
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Steam Next Fest Next Week

If you're worried that this weekend's Summer Game Fest will leaving you hoping for more, Valve has reassurances, announcing a new Steam Next Fest- June 2025 Edition gets underway on Monday, kicking off a week of presentations, demos, and sales. Here's the Official Trailer suggesting this may inspire folks to skip work to take it all in, but the giveaway cough lets us know the crack-pipe was involved in that comment. Read on for more:

Hundreds of brand-new demos await your fingers (watch our official trailer for a sneak peek), with developer livestreams and chats to boot! Play across all genres, and wishlist your favorites to be notified when their official launch day comes.

See you Monday for the June edition of Steam Next Fest, June 9th through June 16th at 10am Pacific!

Demos and Freebies

  • Ascend to ZERO Demo on Steam (Windows). "Have you ever wondered what it feels like to stop time? Ascend to ZERO is a time-control roguelike where you can use your unique ability to freeze time and fight your way to the top."
  • Cleared Hot on Steam (Windows). "CLEARED HOT is a nostalgic helicopter shooter with satisfying physics and light tactical elements. Shoot, dodge, move your squad around the battlefield, and pick up almost anything with your rope and magnet."
  • Lost Isle Demo on Steam (Windows). "Explore a new take on open-world survival in a unique and procedural fantasy world. Build your own settlement and protect it from monstrous beasts and players alike. Craft weapons and equipment from a land bathed in cosmic power."
  • NODE: The Last Favor of the Antarii on Steam (Windows). "NODE: The Last Favor of the Antarii is a 2.5D puzzle platformer about a robot navigating a Cold War nuclear complex. Execute timeline-based commands to control NODE. Unravel mysteries, explore the unknown. Your commands decide the outcome."
  • The Scouring Demo on Steam (Windows). "The Scouring is an RTS with fast pace, high attention to detail and next generation experience. Lead humans or orcs in a Classic Mode or use one of powerful Heroes to fight for victory! Play alone or with friends. Use our modding tools to create maps and custom game modes! Join The Scouring Demo!"

Cyberpunk 2077 Update (DLC?) Plan

A post on X by Marcin Momot has surprising news from the CD PROJEKT RED community director for Cyberpunk 2077 who understood that development on the action/RPG is done. Word is that a version 2.3 patch will come later this month. Insider Gaming puts together the case that this update will actually be new DLC:

The Cyberpunk 2077 DLC was also mentioned during the latest episode of the REDStreams, which focused on the game’s release on the Switch 2. Towards the end of the stream, senior community manager Glicja Kozera stated that she can see a lot of people asking for a DLC and can confirm that they are “planning another part for the game, the last one wasn’t the last one.”

Kozera added that Cyberpunk 2077’s update 2.3 is scheduled for June 26. The developers will return to REDStreams closer to the release window to reveal more details about this DLC.

Dragon Is Dead Lives

Dragon Is Dead is now officially available on Steam with a 10% launch discount, after this roguelite action/platformer killed it during Early Access. This post has details on the version 1.0 release, while thanking players for helping get to this milestone. For a look at what to expect, check out the fast-paced Launch Trailer, which features both hacking and slashing. Read on for some lore:

You are an immortal warrior, a so-called Successor, chosen by the God of Light [Lu], the God of Fire [Ashuran], and the God of Water [Harnia]. When you die in battle, you return to the source of your lineage and are resurrected, growing stronger through the experience, equipment, and rune power you accumulate along the way. Arriving in Cliffshire, a town of light, the Successors must head to a burial ground where demons are said to be manifesting and follow clues to cleanse the distorted world.
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Railroads & Catacombs Released

The official release of Railroads & Catacombs is live on Steam, following an Early Access run for this cardbuilding roguelike. In this you enter the titular catacombs to build the titular railroads, to create a fantasy-themed subway of sorts. There's no launch trailer, but this post has a bunch of screenshots along with a discussion of the arrival of version 1.0, which launches with a 30% discount. Train your eyes on the brief description for more:

In this exciting Card Building Roguelike game you create your cards from scratch adding different upgrades. Build your train, explore the Labyrinth and survive. Discover infinite synergies. How far will you go?

Software CEO Announced

Deltacraft Games announces Software CEO, a new tycoon game where you get to be the CEO of a software company, now well-understood to be the ideal on-ramp for aspiring James Bond villains. This is coming next year to Steam, presuming the CEO of Deltacraft is up to snuff. Here's more:

Start your journey in a humble garage with a single desk and an old CRT monitor. As an ambitious founder, you’ll take charge of every aspect of your growing startup: producing software, hiring employees, furnishing your office, and managing deadlines, bugs, budgets, and burnout.

At the heart of the game lies a unique component-based development system. Every software product, feature, or module is built from multiple layers of components, across five tiers of complexity. To create higher-tier components, you'll need to produce — or delegate — all the underlying elements. Good planning, skilled staff, and smart investments are key to success.

Deadly Quiet Released

Deadly Quiet is now available on Steam, offering an asymmetrical horror game seemingly inspired by A Quiet Place. It arrived a few days ago with a couple of glitches and a few patches have arrived since to silence them. And although this is not an Early Access game, this post has a roadmap for future updates. A recent Official Gameplay Trailer takes a look, and this post has a full gameplay guide to get new players on the right track. To be safe, try not to read this description aloud:

Deadly Quiet is a 4-player co-op asymmetrical horror game that immerses you in the unsettling atmosphere of the infamous Hoia Baciu forest. Viewed through the lens of a bodycam, the game delivers an intense and realistic experience as you and your team navigate the forest's haunting depths. Survival hinges on teamwork, strategic decisions, and your ability to adapt to the unpredictable horrors that lurk within.
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Demos and Freebies

  • Bridge Constructor Studio on Steam (Windows, macOS, Linux). "Bridge Constructor Studio is the latest in the best-selling series. Test your engineering skills in this physics-based puzzle game, combining the best of previous titles with a modern, charming visual style—the ultimate experience for creative builders!"
  • Chico's Rebound on Steam (Windows). "A mysterious tower full of challenges has appeared. Launch Chico's walnut up at the blocks to break them all! Dash, dive, and tail-whip, while deploying an arsenal of creative power-ups. In between stages explore the Celestial Tower to solve puzzles, earn rewards, and uncover its secrets!"
  • Circle Empires 2 Demo on Steam (Windows). "Expand your empire, circle by circle, in this demo for the fast-paced follow-up to the hit RTS, Circle Empires. Gather resources, build armies, and defeat bosses (or your friends) in a world that changes with every game. With unique units and biomes, it's an addictive battle of wits and tactics."
  • Look Mum No Computer on Steam (Windows, macOS, Linux). "Music meets mayhem in this twin-stick shooter action-RPG! Craft synthesizer modules to gain new weapons and experiment with the original music of Look Mum No Computer. Meet quirky NPCs, complete quests and battle huge bosses."
  • Mailstrom on Steam (Windows). "Join a co-op team of 4 friends in a first person shooter that sends Pan Galactic Postal Service letter carriers into the locked-down streets of the future! Fight mutated alien horrors as you and your fellow essential workers deliver baubles to hard-to-find destinations! Hey, at least it's a job!"
  • Mars Attracts Demo on Steam (Windows). "Mars Attracts is a park management sim set in the iconic universe of Mars Attacks™. Play as the devious Martians as you construct detailed enclosures, manage staff, and most importantly - abduct and experiment on humans for the entertainment of your Martian guests!" Ack ack ack!
  • Marisa of Liartop Mountain Demo on Steam (Windows). "Marisa of Liartop Mountain is an adventure RPG where the player's choice and the dice will determine the path. Reimu ventures through a mysterious book, to find Marisa who disappeared... but Reimu is not alone. 4 girls will guide, help, and support Reimu on her journey... While having a blast!"
  • Possessions on Steam (Windows, macOS, Linux). "What if the solution isn’t what you see, but how you see it? In Possessions, perspective is the key to solving mind-bending puzzles. Rotate objects, shift your view, and uncover a story told through a beautifully minimalist 3D world."
  • Primal Planet on Steam (Windows). "Unveil a heartbreaking story of family, dinosaurs, and UFOs! Craft, upgrade, and survive in a realm of primeval predators, savage tribes and... ancient aliens. Rise from a humble cave dweller to the planet’s last hope — alone or in local co-op. Welcome to the dinovania!"
  • Sword & Shield Simulator on Steam (Windows). "When war overtakes your people, it leaves a cruel imprint in the form of hard sacrifice and the crushing of the village. And here you are on the battlefield, confused and distraught, looking for any way to help your people win the battle. But what can you do if you're a simple craftsman?"
  • Theropods on Steam (Windows). "Blending classic adventure game mechanics with cinematic storytelling and richly animated pixel art, Theropods offers a nostalgic yet modern take on the genre. Players solve environmental puzzles, escape deadly creatures, and uncover a story of survival, mystery, and friendship - told entirely through visual storytelling."
  • Tri Survive on Steam (Windows). "Action Roguelite that blends elements of Vampire Survivors with Fantasy RPG themes. Introduces a unique mechanic where the player controls a party of three heroes instead of one, offering a fresh strategic gameplay experience. Featuring JRPG-inspired hand-drawn art style and an intriguing storyline."
  • Vessels of Decay on Steam (Windows). "Vessels of Decay is a retro-inspired action-adventure set in post-apocalyptic Scandinavia. You’ll follow siblings Freja and Mud as they navigate an overgrown world, one where monsters of myth and ancient folklore now reign…"

Morning Patches

Official patch.

Morning Multiplex

Official trailers.

Out of the Blue

I have a couple of things to cover here. First and foremost, condolences to our good friend Console General, a longtime member of this community who's contributed countless links of interest over so many years under a few different aliases. His dad, Major J.D. Tilbrook, a decorated veteran and historian who served 51 years in the Australian Army, just passed away from complications of pulmonary fibrosis. There's no good timing for something like this, but the proximity to Father's Day seems extra poignant. Major Tilbrook served in a number of public service capacities, and his inspirational list of accomplishments is too lengthy to fit here. His son shares this mashup music video to commemorate his service, and the following epitaph: "I am shattered to share the news that my dear father, Major John Douglas Tilbrook, CSM, RFD and JP, lost his battle with pulmonary fibrosis shortly before 6am on Friday, June 6, 2025. He is at peace and no longer suffering. My love and condolences to his wife, Laraine, and to all his family and friends."

On the topic of history of the armed services, today is the 81st anniversary of the D-Day invasion, recalling a bygone time when you had to make a road trip to find Nazis to oppose. Here's a well-deserved salute to the Greatest Generation.

Finally, today also marks the beginning of the Summer Game Fest, which will livestream this evening starting at 5:00 pm EDT. This inevitably results in a news flood, so things might run late, and will probably spill over into tomorrow. In unfortunate timing, I also have a dentist appointment today that I made before the conflict arose (though the date should have set off warning bells). Since it should end before the show starts I decided not to cancel it, but that was probably a mistake, because it's stressing me out a bit. I'll try to relax. It's not my first rodeo, and things should work out fine.

Memorial Round-up
Thanks Ant, Neutronbeam, and Max.

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