Author: Team Techmash!

Renovate by Day, Hunt by Night: Friday Sundae Reveals New Trailer for “There Are No Ghosts at the Grand”

Fresh off its showcase during the ID@Xbox Indie Showcase presented by IGN, Bristol-based studio Friday Sundae has dropped a brand-new gameplay trailer for their highly anticipated “spooky-cosy” title, There Are No Ghosts at the Grand.

This latest look at the game dives deeper into the unique duality of its gameplay, blending the satisfaction of a renovation sim with the tension of a Lovecraftian mystery—all wrapped in a musical flair that sets it apart from anything else in the genre.

A Musical Renovation… with a Twist

In There Are No Ghosts at the Grand, you step into the shoes of Chris David, an American who unexpectedly inherits a crumbling English seaside hotel. The gameplay is split across a strict 30-day and 30-night cycle, forcing you to manage your time between two very different worlds:

By Day: You’ll use an arsenal of satisfying tools—including a sandblaster, paint sprayer, and the delightfully chaotic furniture cannon—to restore the Grand Hotel and the surrounding village of Kingswood-on-Sea to their former glory.
By Night: The tone shifts. As the sun sets, your renovation tools take on a “second life” as talking, sentient companions that double as ghost-hunting gear. You’ll investigate eerie locations like the village church to uncover the truth behind the town’s increasingly strange history.

Explore Beyond the Hotel

The new trailer highlights a significant feature: the small open world. Unlike many “haunted house” games that keep you trapped within four walls, Chris can roam the streets of Kingswood-on-Sea. Restoring shops and local landmarks doesn’t just make the town look better—it unlocks ghost stories, hidden memories, and secrets that are essential to solving the overarching mystery.

“A haunted house story where you can leave the haunted house.” — Anil Glendinning, Creative Director

The “Unreal” Look of Unity

Visually, the game continues to impress. Developed in Unity, the team at Friday Sundae has utilised volumetric fog and PBR (Physically Based Rendering) to create a realistic, atmospheric British seaside aesthetic that rivals AAA titles. This realism is balanced by hand-sculpted, stylised characters who, in true musical fashion, aren’t afraid to burst into song.

Key Features at a Glance

Feature	Details
Protagonist	Chris David, an American in a strange English town.
Core Loop	Renovate by day; investigate supernatural mysteries by night.
Companion	A sardonic cat and talking power tools.
Time Limit	30 days and 30 nights to save the Grand.
Setting	Kingswood-on-Sea (inspired by Weston-super-Mare).

Release Info

There Are No Ghosts at the Grand is slated for release in 2026. It will be available on Xbox Series X/S, Windows PC, and via Xbox Cloud Gaming.

With its blend of PowerWash Simulator vibes and Lovecraftian dread, this is definitely one to keep on your radar. You can wishlist the game now on Steam to keep up with development updates.

What do you think of the “renovation by day, ghosts by night” mechanic? Let us know in the comments!

Find out more here – https://s.team/a/3992630

#FridaySundae #ThereAreNoGhostsattheGrand #ID@Xbox #IndieShowcase #IGN #Lovecraftian #openworldrestoration #supernaturalinvestigations #ghoststories #videogames

28th April 2026

Survival Shopping Just Got Real: The Walking Trade Drops “Drop Dead Docks” Update

The apocalypse is no excuse for poor customer service. If you’ve been spending your days balancing the books while dodging the undead in The Walking Trade, it’s time to expand your empire. Developers Microwave Games and publisher PlayWay SA have officially unleashed the Drop Dead Docks update, and it’s bringing a lot more than just a sea breeze to your post-apocalyptic storefront.

Since its launch earlier this year, The Walking Trade has carved out a unique niche on Steam, blending tight shop management with the constant, nagging threat of being eaten. This latest update proves the team isn’t slowing down, offering veteran shopkeepers fresh ways to profit—and decorate—amidst the chaos.

New Horizons: Welcome to the Docks

The centrepiece of the update is the brand-new Drop Dead Docks location on the World Map. This isn’t just a place for a scenic stroll; it’s a hub for high-stakes commerce.

Bulk Contracts: Players can now take on randomly generated contracts to sell massive quantities of specific goods within a tight time limit.
Unique Rewards: Successfully fulfilling these “end-game” orders earns you exclusive rewards, including rare decorative items and even a crafting recipe for the elusive Bone Revolver.
The Mobile News Crew: Struggling to shift stock? You can now find a news crew near the Church. For a fee, they’ll advertise your shop, triggering a massive influx of customers specifically looking for your promoted items.

Sprucing Up the End Times

Who says you can’t have a nice shop while society crumbles? The update introduces over 75 new decoration items, including advanced lighting and wasteland-themed refrigeration units like the Wasteland Chiller.

Crucially, Build Mode has received a significant upgrade. You can now permanently secure items to one another (like placing a plant on a shelf and making sure it stays there), allowing for much more intricate and stable shop layouts.

Looking Ahead: The 2026 Roadmap

Alongside the update, Microwave Games shared a look at what’s coming to the wasteland through the rest of the year:

Timeline	Update Name	Key Features
May/June 2026	Housekeeping	Full Controller & Steam Deck support; raid optimization.
Late Summer 2026	Rooftop Farming	Rooftop access via the Warehouse; farming, tools, and seeds.
Late 2026	Into the Bunker	New sprawling bunker maps, enemy types, and boss fights.

Final Thoughts

The Drop Dead Docks update adds a much-needed layer of depth for players who have already mastered the basics of battery trading and staff management. With the promise of rooftop farming and deep-bunker exploration on the horizon, The Walking Trade is quickly becoming the definitive “just-one-more-day” simulator of the year.

The update is live now on Steam. Get back to the counter, Survivor—those shelves won’t stock themselves.

Find out more here – https://s.team/a/3398110

#MicrowaveGames #PlayWaySA #shopsimulator #zombies #apocalypse #TheWalkingTrade #DropDeadDocks #gameupdate #videogames #gaming #gamers

28th April 2026

G’day, Switch 2! Dinkum Lands on Nintendo’s Newest Console
If you’ve been looking for an excuse to trade the city life for the digital outback, your time has finally come. James Bendon’s beloved Aussie-inspired life sim, Dinkum, has officially jumped onto the Nintendo Switch 2.

To celebrate the launch, KRAFTON, Inc. has dropped a sun-drenched launch trailer showcasing exactly why this “Aussie Animal Crossing” is the perfect fit for your new handheld.

What’s New in the Switch 2 Edition?

While the core experience of building a town in the bush remains as charming as ever, the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition isn’t just a simple port. This version takes full advantage of the upgraded hardware to deliver a smoother, more vibrant version of the Outback.
- Upgraded Visuals & Performance: Say goodbye to the occasional stutter. The Switch 2 hardware ensures a rock-solid framerate and sharper textures, making those sunsets over the billabong look better than ever.
- The “Animal Tracks” Content: The Switch 2 Edition launches with the massive Animal Tracks update included. This brings animal breeding, new creatures (like Roosters and Penguins!), and the highly anticipated Creative Mode to the console.
- A Massive World in Your Pocket: Whether you’re hunting crocs, mining for ores, or decorating your verandah, the increased draw distances on Switch 2 make the island feel truly expansive.
A Fair Dinkum Deal for Returning Players

In a move that’s sure to please the community, KRAFTON confirmed that players who already own the original version on the first-gen Nintendo Switch can upgrade to the Switch 2 Edition at no additional cost via a free upgrade pass.

“The creativity of the Dinkum community continues to inspire me, and I’m excited to keep growing this world with players,” — James Bendon, Creator of Dinkum.

Celebrate with the “Great Bite” on Steam

While Switch 2 owners are settling into their new homes, PC players aren’t being left behind. The game is simultaneously celebrating its first anniversary on Steam with “The Great Bite” update, featuring a brand-new region with climbable cliffs, lighthouses, and a limited-time in-game event running until May 7.

Verdict: Should You Grab It?

If you missed the boat during the original Early Access craze, there has never been a better time to start your island life. With its mix of Minecraft survival, Stardew Valley farming, and a distinctly Australian soul, Dinkum on Switch 2 is a must-have for cosy gamers.

Dinkum – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is available now on the eShop. Grab your flip-flops and get digging!

Are you planning on upgrading your town to the Switch 2, or are you starting a fresh save from scratch? Let us know in the comments!

Find out more here – https://dinkum.krafton.com/en

#Dinkum #JamesBendon #Krafton #PC #NintendoSwitch #buildatown #remoteisland #Australianoutback #survivallifesimulation
28th April 2026
Divine Justice Meets Heavy Metal: Arms of God Hits Early Access This June
The “bullet heaven” genre is about to get a hellish upgrade. Dark Jay Studio has officially announced that its highly anticipated action roguelite, Arms of God, is set to storm into Early Access on June 8, 2026.

If you’ve been looking for a game that blends the chaotic energy of Vampire Survivors with the visceral, high-fidelity gore of DOOM, this is the title to keep on your radar. Developed by the husband-and-wife duo at Dark Jay Studio (Dominik and Barbara Sójka), Arms of God recently turned heads during Steam Next Fest, ranking in the Top 100 demos and maintaining a “Very Positive” 88% rating.

What to Expect from the Early Access Launch

While many autoshooters stick to 2D pixel art, Arms of God breaks the mould with hand-sculpted 3D characters and dark, stylised environments. The game places you in the role of a divine warrior tasked with resurrecting a decimated holy order and purging a world overrun by demonic legions.

Key features coming to the June 8 release include:
- The Power of Five: Forget holding just one gun. You can wield up to five weapons simultaneously, creating a massive wall of fire (or steel) against the abyss.
- Deep Build Customisation: With 60 different weapon models, you aren’t just picking gear—you’re merging them. The game features an innovative system where you can combine weapons and upgrades into “indestructible monstrosities.”
- A Content-Heavy Start: The Early Access version is launching with a meatier-than-usual offering, featuring 60 story-driven levels, 10 playable heroes, and 10 formidable bosses.
- Heavy Metal Vibes: The entire experience is backed by a pulsing metal soundtrack designed to keep the adrenaline high as you tear through four distinct acts of hellish landscapes.
Roadmap to Redemption

Dominik Sójka, the creative force behind the project and former Technical Art Director for The Beast Inside, notes that the game has been in development for nearly four years. The team plans to remain in Early Access until early 2027, with the full version set to include local co-op and eventual console ports for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox.

Whether you’re playing on a high-end rig or taking the fight on the go—as the game is already confirmed to run great on Steam Deck—Arms of God promises a satisfying loop of “just one more run” gameplay.

“We believe Arms of God stands out thanks to its custom weapon-combining mechanics, high-quality 3D visuals, and an additional narrative layer rarely seen in this space.” — Dominik Sójka, Dark Jay Studio

Arms of God arrives on PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store on June 8, 2026. You can head over to Steam now to check out the demo and add it to your wishlist.

Are you ready to wield the tools of divine justice, or will you succumb to the infernal conflagration? Let us know in the comments!

Find out more here – https://s.team/a/3100310

#DarkJayStudio #action #roguelite #ArmsofGod #EarlyAccess #PC #videogames #gamers #gaming #gametrailers #demogames
28th April 2026
Catnip and Chaos: ‘Astro Burn’ Hits Steam Early Access After London Games Festival Triumph
The “cute-em-up” is back, and it’s arriving with a hiss and a roar. London-based developer Beyond The Pixels and indie publisher Pixel Doors have officially unleashed Astro Burn into Early Access on Steam.

Following a standout performance as an Official Selection at the London Games Festival 2026, where it drew crowds to the New Game Plus showcase, this neon-soaked side-scroller is already generating major buzz. If you’ve been missing the “bonkers” energy of 90s arcade classics like Parodius or Pop’n TwinBee, Astro Burn is the love letter you’ve been waiting for.

Meet Astro: The Sassy Space Cat

In Astro Burn, you take control of Astro, a space-faring feline trying to find her way home across a vibrant, hostile galaxy. Accompanied by her trusty (and surprisingly resilient) robot companion, Astro must blast through waves of enemies that are as adorable as they are deadly.

The game features 10 diverse levels, ranging from the cold vacuum of deep space to underwater realms and sprawling futuristic cities. But don’t let the “cute” aesthetic fool you—this is a bullet-hell experience with teeth.

Key Gameplay Features
- Stackable Weaponry: Unlike traditional shooters, where you swap guns, Astro Burn encourages you to collect and fire everything at once. The “stack-em-up” system turns your ship into a screen-clearing engine of destruction.
- Catnip-Powered Chaos: Trigger “Catnip Special Powers” to unleash anime-style finishing moves—essentially the feline equivalent of a “Meodoooken.”
- Local & Competitive Co-op: Grab a friend for couch co-op. You can work together to survive or compete for the highest score to prove who the superior space cat truly is.
- Retro Authenticity: From the Venice Bleach soundtrack to the classic three-letter initial leaderboard, the game oozes 90s arcade nostalgia.
A New Breed of Developer & Publisher

The brains behind the operation is HaZ Dulull, a veteran of the film and TV industry (Hellboy II, The Dark Knight) turned game director. His cinematic background is evident in the game’s “transmedia” vision, blending tight gameplay with a narrative that hints at a much larger mystery regarding Earth’s downfall.

Partnering with Pixel Doors, a publisher founded on an “Ethical & Sustainable” model, the launch represents a shift in how indie games reach the market. Pixel Doors operates on a “Developer Eats First” policy, ensuring creators like Beyond The Pixels® retain their IP and creative control.

“What HaZ and the team experienced at the London Games Festival is exactly why we do this,” says Jacek Pudlik, Co-Founder of Pixel Doors. “It captures the addictive chaos of classic arcade shooters but welcomes everyone to the party.”

Jump Into the Fire

Astro Burn is available NOW on Steam for PC and Mac. As an Early Access title, the developers are actively looking for player feedback to shape the road to full release.

Find out more here – https://s.team/a/3810660

#PixelDoors #BeyondThePixels #AstroBurn #LondonGamesFestival #EarlyAccess #Steam #sidescroller #arcade #videogames #gaming #gamers
28th April 2026
One Girl, One Gun, One Recording: Better Than Dead Hits Steam on May 12th
If you thought the “bodycam” shooter craze had peaked, MicroProse and developer Monte Gallo are here to prove there is still plenty of room for gritty, hyper-realistic violence. The legendary publisher has officially announced that their brutal tactical FPS, Better Than Dead, is set to storm onto PC via Steam Early Access on May 12, 2026.

To mark the announcement, a visceral new trailer has been released, showcasing the game’s uncompromising aesthetic and “one-and-done” lethality.

Gritty Realism Meets Hong Kong Cinema

While titles like Bodycam and Unrecord paved the way for the perspective, Better Than Dead carves out its own identity by leaning heavily into the vibe of classic 80s and 90s Hong Kong action cinema. Think John Woo’s kinetic energy meets the raw, uncomfortable footage of a police chest-cam.

You play as a survivor on a relentless path of revenge. There’s no sprawling open world or convoluted RPG mechanics here; this is a game built on immediacy and tension.

Key Features to Expect:
- Tactical Bodycam Perspective: A photorealistic, grounded visual style that makes every corner feel claustrophobic and every gunshot feel deafening.
- Brutal, Decisive Combat: In Better Than Dead, encounters are short and unforgiving. Movement and reaction time are everything—hesitate for a second, and it’s game over.
- Iconic Urban Settings: Fight through neon-drenched restaurants, cramped apartments, seedy nightclubs, and rain-slicked rooftops across a meticulously detailed Hong Kong.
- Full Campaign at Launch: Unlike many Early Access titles that launch with a skeleton crew of content, the May 12 release features a full campaign spanning 14 handcrafted levels.
The Path to “Heaven”

MicroProse has confirmed that the game will remain in Early Access for roughly 6 to 12 months. During this time, Monte Gallo plans to refine the gunplay based on player feedback and eventually introduce a “hardcore” second mode titled To Heaven, which will include additional levels and the game’s “true” ending.

“Encounters are short, unforgiving, and decisive. Mistakes are costly. Success is earned.” — MicroProse

If you’re ready to record every second of your revenge, you can head over to the Better Than Dead Steam page right now to add it to your wishlist.

Mark your calendars for May 12—it’s time to show the world what they did to you.

What do you think of the bodycam genre? Is the Hong Kong setting enough to make this a day-one purchase for you? Let us know in the comments!

Find out more here – https://s.team/a/2599690

#MicroProse #BetterThanDead #MonteGallo #brutalbodycam #FPS #photorealistic #survivor #videogames #gaming #gamers
28th April 2026
Deckbuilding Meets Cosmic Horror: Voice of Belldona Hits Steam This May
Prepare to step into a world where cosmic instability isn’t just a background detail—it’s a way of life. Developer Storycrop and publisher Okasan’s Recipe have officially announced that their highly anticipated sci-fantasy roguelike deckbuilder, Voice of Belldona, will be launching on PC via Steam on May 20th, 2026.

If you are a fan of Slay the Spire but wish it had a darker, Warhammer 40K-inspired aesthetic mixed with JRPG flair, this is definitely one to add to your wishlist.

A World on the Brink

In Voice of Belldona, humanity’s last-ditch effort to save a collapsing universe resulted in the creation of a white-haired, godlike girl with overwhelming power. The catch? She has a massive case of social anxiety. As players navigate the Vortex Zone, they’ll take on the role of this unlikely saviour, summoning allies and forming tactical battle lines to tear through cosmic horrors and corrupted machines.

Tactical Depth and High Stakes

This isn’t your average “play cards and win” deckbuilder. The game places a heavy emphasis on positioning and timing. Key features include:
- Dual Protagonists: Choose between heroes like Rinsana, who dashes head-first into the fray, or Griza, who commands the field with powerful summons.
- Dynamic Deckbuilding: Every path you take in the Vortex Zone alters the cards you can obtain, meaning no two runs are ever the same.
- Tactical Formations: Your position on the battlefield matters just as much as the cards in your hand.
- Dark Cosmic Aesthetic: Encounter everything from twisted robots to “winged god-engines” in a beautifully bleak sci-fantasy setting.
“Every choice reshapes your build, and every build opens new ways to outsmart the void.”

Ready for Launch

After a successful closed beta and a highly-rated demo that garnered “Very Positive” feedback from the community, the full release promises expanded content, refined gameplay systems, and a deeper progression path.

The countdown is on. Will you be the one to reach the True Ending and survive the folding reality? Mark your calendars for May 20th and head over to the Voice of Belldona Steam page to wishlist it now.

Are you ready to face the void, or will the cosmic pressure be too much? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Find out more here – https://s.team/a/2223420

#DeveloperStorycrop #OkasansRecipe #VoiceofBelldona #scifantasy #roguelike #deckbuilder #PC #Steam #videogames #gamers #gaming
28th April 2026
Chill Out With the Witches: HYKE: Northern Light(s) Drops Free “A Witch’s Chill Time” Update This Week
If you’ve been braving the frozen wastes and battling through the intense pixel-art world of HYKE: Northern Light(s), it is time to put down the sword and pick up a towel. Aniplex Inc. and Akatsuki Games Inc. have officially announced that their hit 2D top-down action RPG is receiving a major free content update titled “A Witch’s chill time” on April 30th.

After the heavy lifting of the main campaign, our heroes are heading to the hot springs for some much-needed R&R—but in the world of HYKE, even a vacation comes with its own set of mysteries.

What’s New in the Forbidden Areas?

Set after the resolution of the main story, the update finds Hyke and the group guided by an invitation from Aurora into a mysterious new realm. The goal? Creating the “ideal hot spring.” Of course, getting there involves more than just checking into a hotel.

The “A Witch’s chill time” update brings a healthy dose of new content to the table:
- A Brand New Story: Explore a post-game narrative focused on tranquillity and teamwork.
- New Encounters: Meet new characters and face unique challenges tucked away in the hot spring location.
- Gameplay Elements: Fresh mechanics designed specifically for this new environment.
- A New Trailer: Aniplex has released a first-look trailer showcasing the beautiful pixel-art hot springs and the cosy vibes awaiting players.
Where to Play

The update will be available as a free download across almost all current platforms:
- PC (via Steam)
- Nintendo Switch
- PlayStation 5
Note for Mobile Gamers: While the update hits consoles and PC on April 30th, the Apple Arcade version is currently slated to receive this content later this year.

About HYKE: Northern Light(s)

For those who haven’t dived in yet, HYKE: Northern Light(s) is a gorgeous collaborative project developed by Blast Edge Games. It follows the journey of Hyke, a white-haired girl traversing a world devastated by a historic war between humanity and witches.

The game stands out for its fluid top-down combat, “Camp” management system, and a striking “dot art” aesthetic that feels both nostalgic and modern.

Ready to soak in the mystery? Keep an eye on your updates this Thursday, April 30th, and prepare to discover what the witches do when they finally get a chance to relax.

Find out more here – https://s.team/a/2680380

#AniplexInc #AkatsukiGames #HYKENorthernLights #AWitchschilltime #freeupdate #PC #Steam #NintendoSwitch #PlayStation #AppleArcade #2Dtopdownaction #pixel #RPG
28th April 2026
Put Out the Fire or Fuel the Flames? OCTOPinbs Arrives This May!
The indie scene is about to get a whole lot hotter—and a bit more suspicious. During the INDIE Live Expo 2026.4.25, co-developers tri-Ace and Lasengle, Inc., alongside publisher Aniplex, dropped a bombshell for fans of social deception: OCTOPinbs is officially launching on PC via Steam on Monday, May 11, 2026.

If you thought Among Us was tense, try sussing out a traitor while the very floor beneath you is turning into an inferno.

What is OCTOPinbs?

At its core, OCTOPinbs is a firefighting social deduction game for 3 to 10 players. You play as a team of adorable Octopus firefighters tasked with extinguishing a massive blaze in a multi-story building.

However, there’s a catch. Hidden among your crew are “Pinbs” (that’s “Squid” reversed and flipped—because you can’t even trust their names). These “Artist” saboteurs want nothing more than to watch the world burn. Literally.

Key Gameplay Mechanics

The game blends real-time action with the classic “who-done-it” paranoia we’ve come to love:
- Extinguish vs. Ignite: Firefighters must work together to bring the fire gauge to 0%. Meanwhile, the Pinbs are secretly setting new fires, aiming to max out the gauge or eliminate all firefighters.
- The Art of Sabotage: Pinbs can use “Squid Art” to blend in, sabotage equipment, or even ditch their firefighter disguise for a mobility boost to wreak havoc.
- Real-Time Combat: Unlike many social deduction games, there are no “meetings” here. Everything happens in real-time. If you suspect someone, you can attack them with your hose or hatchet.
- The Octojar: Think you’ve caught the traitor? Reduce their HP to zero and drag them to the Octojar to reveal their true form and eliminate them from the match.
- Environmental Hazards: As the fire spreads, the building decays. Floors collapse, and staircases vanish, forcing you to jump between levels to stay ahead of the flames.
A Star-Studded Indie Collaboration

What makes OCTOPinbs particularly interesting is the pedigree behind it. tri-Ace (famed for Star Ocean and Valkyrie Profile) and Lasengle (known for Fate/Grand Order) are lending their expertise to this indie project. To top it off, the latest trailer revealed at the Expo features narration by the legendary voice actor Shigeru Chiba, known for his high-energy roles in Dragon Ball and One Piece.

“Since first revealing OCTOPinbs, the team has joyfully read fans’ excitement to call each other’s blazing bluffs. We hope you look forward to fighting fires as OCTOs and sowing chaos as the trickster Pinbs next month.” — Aniplex Statement

Launch Details
- Platform: PC via Steam
- Release Date: Monday, May 11, 2026
- Price: $9.99 USD
- Language Support: Japanese, English, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, German, Korean, Spanish, and French.
Whether you’re a hero with a hose or a master of the matchstick, OCTOPinbs looks set to be the next big party game of 2026. Be sure to wishlist it now to prepare for the heat!

Find out more here – https://s.team/a/2660510

#OCTOPinbs #triAce #Lasengle #Aniplex #INDIELiveExpo #gaming #PC #Steam #firefighting #Artist #firefighters #videogames #gamers
28th April 2026
Rhythm and Reflexes: SHIKA-Q Brings High-Octane Puzzle Battles to EVO Japan 2026
The Evolution Championship Series (EVO) is usually the domain of frame-perfect fireballs and high-stakes grapples. But at EVO Japan 2026, a different kind of combat is set to steal the spotlight. AGNI-FLARE CO., LTD. has officially announced that their fast-paced, music-driven puzzle battler, SHIKA-Q, will be making its competitive debut in an upcoming side event.

What is SHIKA-Q?

If you think “puzzle game” means slowly rotating blocks in a quiet vacuum, think again. SHIKA-Q is a high-octane PvP experience that feels more like a fighting game than a traditional puzzler. Played on a 10×10 board, the game ditches falling blocks entirely. Instead, players rotate and place shaped tiles to form “Links.”

It’s a game of territory, speed, and mental gymnastics. You aren’t just clearing lines; you are fighting for board control, managing attacks, and executing special moves—all in real-time.

The Beat of the Battle

What truly sets SHIKA-Q apart from the pack—and likely why it’s gaining traction in the competitive scene—is its deep integration with music.
- Vocal Tracks: The game features over 30 fully voiced tracks that aren’t just background noise; they are the heart of the experience.
- Audio-Visual Sync: Every move, link, and attack is synchronised with the rhythm, creating a high-pressure flow state that keeps players locked in.
- Dynamic Atmosphere: As the match intensifies, the music evolves, amplifying the tension as you and your opponent trade blows.
SHIKA-Q at EVO Japan 2026

The SHIKA-Q World Link Tournament is scheduled to take place on May 3, 2026, as a side event at the legendary Tokyo Big Sight.

While the main stage at EVO Japan features heavy hitters like Street Fighter 6 and Tekken 8, the inclusion of SHIKA-Q highlights a growing trend in the FGC (Fighting Game Community): the appreciation for high-skill, head-to-head competitive titles regardless of genre.

Registration Note: For those in Tokyo (or planning a last-minute flight), registrations for the SHIKA-Q World Link Tournament are open until May 2 at 6:00 PM JST.

Where to Play

If you want to sharpen your skills before the next tournament, SHIKA-Q is currently available on:
- Nintendo Switch
- PlayStation 5 / PlayStation 4
- PC (via Steam)
With a Challenge Mode featuring 99 stages for solo practice and a robust Ranked Match system, there is plenty of room to master the “Link” system before the next major event.

Whether you’re a puzzle veteran or a fighting game enthusiast looking for a new way to test your reflexes, SHIKA-Q is proving that the most intense battles don’t always require a health bar—sometimes, they just require a beat.

Stay tuned to techmash.co.uk for more updates on EVO Japan 2026 and the latest indie competitive gems.

What’s your go-to puzzle game when you want a competitive challenge?

Find out more here – https://s.team/a/4083790

#SHIKAQ #AGNIFLARE #event #EVOJapan #SHIKAQWorldLinkTournament #PvP #puzzle #battle #music #videogames #gamers #gaming
28th April 2026
Spilling the Beans: My Little Cafe Nightmare Hits Full Release This June
The coffee is brewing, the ghosts are gathering, and the long-awaited morning is almost here. Solo developer SethMadDev and publisher Ivy Juice Games have officially confirmed that their hit indie title, My Little Cafe Nightmare, is set to leave Early Access and launch its full version on June 2nd, 2026.

Since first opening its haunted doors in October 2025, this “dark yet cosy” cafe simulator has brewed up quite a following. With over 5,000 copies sold and a massive 12,000+ wishlists, the game has become a standout success in the indie scene, proving that there is a serious market for management sims with a Tim Burton-esque twist.

What’s on the Menu?

For those who haven’t stepped into this eerie establishment yet, My Little Cafe Nightmare puts you in charge of a crumbling, supernatural coffee shop. Your task? Serve “otherworldly” brews to a variety of ghostly patrons while expanding your shop and keeping hostile anomalies at bay.

The game has thrived during its Early Access period, largely thanks to its innovative Twitch integration. This feature allows streamers to let their viewers literally walk into the cafe as customers, creating a chaotic and interactive experience that has kept the game trending on live platforms nearly every day.

The Road to 1.0

The move to 1.0 isn’t just a label change. The developers have been hard at work polishing the experience based on community feedback. Recent updates have introduced:
- Vampire-Themed Furniture: New “Fine” furniture sets to upgrade your aesthetic.
- Quality of Life Tweaks: The ability for players to sit and enjoy their own coffee (finally!).
- Reworked Rating Systems: A refined “Cafe Rating” system where manual service can now earn you the elusive “Divine” rank.
Mark Your Calendars

The official release date announcement was accompanied by a new trailer during Wishlisted gg Showcase, giving fans a glimpse of the final polish and spooky charm they can expect this summer.

Whether you’re a logistics nerd looking to automate your ghostly workflows or just someone who wants to decorate a haunted sanctuary, June 2nd is the day to keep on your radar.

“My Little Cafe Nightmare is a testament to what a solo dev can achieve with a clear vision and a supportive community.” — Ivy Juice Games

Ready to serve the afterlife? You can grab My Little Cafe Nightmare on Steam and Humble right now in Early Access, or wait for the grand opening this June.

For more indie gaming news and business updates, stay tuned to BizNooz.com.

Find out more here – https://s.team/a/3726250

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27th April 2026
The Hell Clock Is Ticking Toward Consoles This June
The wait is nearly over for console players looking for their next dark fantasy obsession. Rogue Snail and Mad Mushroom have officially announced that Hell Clock, the high-octane “Exile-like” roguelike ARPG, will make its debut on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S on June 2, 2026.

Since its initial PC launch, Hell Clock has carved out a unique niche by blending the deep character customisation of Path of Exile with the frantic, “one-more-run” energy of Hades. Now, that experience is coming to your living room with a massive new update to boot.

What is Hell Clock?

Set against a dark fantasy reimagining of Brazil’s 19th-century War of Canudos, you play as Pajeú, a warrior-clockmaker descending into the depths of Hell. Your mission? Rescue the soul of your mentor, The Counsellor, from the demonic forces that claimed him.

The game stands out with its titular mechanic: The Hell Clock. You aren’t just fighting monsters; you’re fighting time itself. Every second counts as you rush through procedurally generated levels, balancing the need for powerful loot against a timer that spells “Game Over” the moment it hits zero.

Key Features to Get Excited About:
- Deep Customisation: A massive, scrolling skill tree and a “Relic” system allow you to forge unstoppable builds.
- Cultural Depth: Experience a story rooted in Brazilian history and folklore, voiced in Brazilian Portuguese for an authentic atmosphere.
- Choose Your Pace: While the timer adds tension, a “Relaxed Mode” lets you remove the pressure, while “Hardcore” will test even the most veteran ARPG fans.
- Fluid Combat: From lightning-fast knife strikes to crushing enemies with a massive bell, the combat is snappy, responsive, and designed for controller play.
Launching with the “Cursed War” Expansion

The console launch on June 2 isn’t just a port—it’s a celebration. Launching simultaneously on PS5, Xbox, and Steam is the game’s first major expansion: Cursed War.

This expansion promises to go even deeper into the lore of Canudos, adding new systems, more nightmarish bosses, and fresh content to the three-act campaign. According to Rogue Snail CEO Mark Venturelli, the goal was to “fit the feeling of an entire PoE league or Diablo season into just a few hours,” and Cursed War looks to double down on that promise.

Mark Your Calendars

If you’ve been looking for an ARPG that respects your time while offering endless depth, Hell Clock is the one to watch.

Release Date: June 2, 2026

Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Steam

Price: Expected to align with the PC launch price of £15.99 / $19.99

Get ready to face the demons of Brazil’s past. Just remember: in Hell, time is the only currency that matters.

Are you ready to race the clock on June 2nd? Let us know which console you’ll be playing on in the comments below!

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27th April 2026