TECHMASH

Author: David Allen

  • Up, Up & Explosions — BoomScroll Blasts Onto Steam With Infinite Bullet Heaven Action

    Up, Up & Explosions — BoomScroll Blasts Onto Steam With Infinite Bullet Heaven Action

    The sky’s no limit — it’s just the starting line.

    Independent Italian solo developer Toiu has officially unveiled BoomScroll — an infinitely scrolling hand-drawn bullet heaven where the faster you climb, the deadlier and more spectacular it gets. The Steam page is live right now with a free demo, and the full game launches in early 2027.

    What Is BoomScroll?

    BoomScroll reimagines the bullet heaven formula by making movement itself your greatest weapon and risk. This isn’t a static arena — you’re ascending vertically, constantly, at speeds that build and build. The higher you go, the faster you travel, the greater the rewards — and the more overwhelming the hordes.

    It’s a love letter to arcade classics like Space Invaders fused with the runaway-power fantasy of hits like Vampire Survivors, all brought to life with warm, expressive, fully hand-drawn visuals — every frame crafted personally by Toiu from his studio in Italy.

    Key Features — Go Higher, Hit Harder

    • Infinite Vertical Scrolling — There’s no final boss at the top; the climb never truly ends. How far can you push before the speed becomes unmanageable?
    • Speed = Reward — The faster you ascend, the better loot and XP you earn. But accelerate too recklessly, and you’ll be swarmed before you can react — risk and reward in perfect balance
    • 16 Distinct Characters — Each comes with unique starting weapons, stats, and special abilities, turning every run into a fresh tactical puzzle. Unlock more as you play
    • Build Your Overpowered Arsenal — Stack upgrades, combine devastating effects, and craft absurdly powerful builds that turn screenfuls of foes into confetti
    • Full Localisation — Launching with support for 9 languages, with more planned post-release
    • Connected Universe — Characters return from Toiu’s earlier title Love Craft, giving long-time fans hidden links and cameos to spot

    Demo — Your First Climb Starts Now

    The free Steam demo gives you the full Fleeting Forest opening zone — a complete taste of the gameplay loop, progression, and chaos awaiting you. No time limits, no restricted features — just pure, unfiltered BoomScroll action to see how high you can soar.

    Made by One Pair of Hands

    Toiu isn’t just a developer — he’s built BoomScroll solo, from art to code to design, sharing his journey on YouTube along the way. It’s the kind of fiercely personal project that gives indie gaming its soul: no studio mandates, no compromise — just one creator’s vision of pure, unadulterated fun.

    “BoomScroll is all about that feeling of becoming unstoppable,” Toiu shared in today’s announcement. “You start small, climbing slow and careful — then you break through, speed up, and suddenly you’re tearing through the sky, weapons blazing, and nothing can touch you… until it can. That sweet spot between invincible and overwhelmed? That’s where the magic lives.”

    Mark Your Calendar

    • Free Demo ? Available now on Steam
    • Full Release ? Early 2027 (targeting January) on PC via Steam
    • Price ? To be confirmed

    Strap in, power up, and see just how high you can make it. The sky’s not the limit — it’s where the fun really begins.

    More Info: Boom Scroll

    #BoomScroll #IndieDev #BulletHeaven #Roguelite #HandDrawnGames #SteamDemo #SoloDev #ItalianIndie #Early2027 #ActionRoguelike #Techmash

  • Sweet & Spritely — Clear River Games Unleashes Double Cotton Delight Today

    Sweet & Spritely — Clear River Games Unleashes Double Cotton Delight Today

    Two classics, one legendary witch — the cute ‘em up queen has returned.

    Clear River Games, the retro and classic games specialist, has officially dropped not one but two beloved entries from the iconic Cotton series onto consoles — both available right now. Cotton Reboot! and Cotton Reboot! High Tension! arrive hand-in-hand, bringing sugar, spells, and bullet-hell brilliance to a whole new generation of players.

    Who Is Cotton?

    For those new to the magic: Cotton defined the cute ‘em up genre. Born in Japanese arcades in 1991, the series follows the eponymous young witch — bright, brash, and utterly obsessed with magical Willow sweets — and her fairy companion Silk as they blast through fantastical realms, battling monsters and dodging intricate patterns of glowing projectiles. It’s a formula where adorable art meets merciless challenge, and it’s been a cult favourite for 35 years.

    Cotton Reboot! — The Classic, Reborn

    Arriving today, October 22, Cotton Reboot! lands on Nintendo Switch 2 and PlayStation 5, with both digital and physical editions available. It’s a loving restoration of the 1993 arcade classic Cotton: Fantastic Night Dreams, rebuilt from the ground up with:

    • HD Reboot Mode — crisp, modern visuals, remastered audio, and smooth widescreen presentation
    • X68000 Original Mode — the authentic, pixel-perfect experience as it appeared on Japan’s legendary Sharp X68000 home computer, preserved exactly as fans remember it
    • Choice between the original soundtrack and a full, high-fidelity rearrangement
    • Full Japanese voice acting with multi-language text support

    Every spell, every stage, every boss is faithfully recreated — with quality-of-life touches that make it feel at home on modern consoles without losing that signature nostalgic edge.

    Cotton Reboot! High Tension! — More Magic, More Mayhem

    Also launching today — on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5 — is High Tension!, the vibrant follow-up built on the Reboot foundation. This isn’t just a repeat: it cranks the intensity with:

    • High Tension Mode — enemy attacks grow more aggressive and elaborate as you progress; master the new Over Tension system to unleash devastating hidden magic and chase record scores
    • Willow Fever — the returning Fever system, now bigger, bolder, and more spectacular than before
    • Classic abilities — Fire Dragon, Lightning, and more — alongside all-new tricks and tactical depth
    • Fresh stages, reimagined bosses, and a story that pits Cotton against a very unexpected foe: a corrupted, sweet-crazed Willow

    Why This Double Drop Matters

    Retro re-releases are common — but getting two distinct, high-quality Cotton experiences on the same day, across multiple formats, is something special. Clear River Games has partnered with Japan’s Beep and Rocket Engine to bring these titles west, complete with physical collector’s editions for anyone who wants to own a piece of shoot-‘em-up history.

    For veterans, it’s a chance to revisit a masterpiece and its bold sequel with all the polish they deserve. For newcomers, it’s the perfect entry point: approachable in style, endlessly charming, and — beneath that fluffy exterior — a genuine test of skill that rewards practice, pattern recognition, and quick reflexes.

    “Cotton has been a beloved mascot of the cute ‘em up genre for decades,” the Clear River Games team said in today’s announcement. “Bringing both titles to players together feels like the perfect way to celebrate everything that makes these games special — and to introduce one of gaming’s sweetest, most determined heroes to a brand-new audience.”

    Out Now — Go Get Your Sweets

    • Cotton Reboot! ? Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5 — Digital & Physical
    • Cotton Reboot! High Tension! ? Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 — Digital & Physical

    Both titles are available starting October 22, 2026.

    Don’t let the bright colours fool you — these games bite back. But if you’ve got the reflexes, the rewards are pure magic.

    More Info: Cotton Reboot and Cotton High Tension

    #CottonReboot #CottonHighTension #ClearRiverGames #CuteEmUp #RetroGaming #ShootEmUp #IndieRetro #NintendoSwitch2 #PS5 #ClassicGames #Techmash

  • Strings, Screams & Switch 2 — My Friendly Neighborhood Comes Home, October 22

    Strings, Screams & Switch 2 — My Friendly Neighborhood Comes Home, October 22

    Developer siblings John and Evan Szymanski, alongside indie horror specialist DreadXP, have officially confirmed that the cult-loved puppet-survival horror My Friendly Neighborhood is heading to Nintendo Switch 2 — arriving October 22, 2026, just in time for Halloween.

    What Happened to the Neighbours?

    Originally launched on PC in July 2023 before spreading to PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PS4 and Xbox One in July 2025, My Friendly Neighborhood casts you as Gordon, a maintenance worker sent to investigate the abandoned studio of a beloved children’s puppet show — only to find the cast has gone horribly, violently wrong. It’s survival horror with a distinctively uncanny twist: every roaming menace is a once-friendly puppet, and every corner of the neighbourhood hums with the ghost of cheerful daytime television… now twisted into something deeply unsettling.

    This isn’t jump-scare cheap shots — it’s slow-burn, atmospheric dread. You’ll explore a sprawling, non-linear map, manage scarce resources, solve environmental puzzles, and face off against a gallery of disturbingly expressive marionettes. Forget shotguns and assault rifles; your tools of the trade are delightfully deranged contraptions like The Rolodexer, which fires sharp letters to stagger foes, and duct tape to patch yourself together — echoing classic survival horror resource management with a distinctly handmade charm.

    Switch 2 — Enhanced & Complete

    The Switch 2 release brings the full, polished experience to Nintendo’s new hardware, including:

    • All previously released content and improvements refined since launch
    • Neighborhorde Mode, included right out of the box — an arcade-style wave-survival challenge unlocked after beating the main story, pitting you against escalating puppet hordes with unlockable modifiers and bonus weapons
    • Optimised controls, crisp visuals, and atmospheric audio tailored for Switch 2’s capabilities
    • Digital release across all regions; pricing to be confirmed

    From Two Brothers to Your Console

    Built by two brothers with a passion for classic horror and a very specific, very creepy aesthetic, My Friendly Neighborhood has earned its place as one of the standout indie horror hits of recent years. What began as a labour of love has grown into a franchise-favourite that proves you don’t need AAA budgets to deliver genuine fear — just imagination, restraint, and a knack for making felt fabric terrifying.

    “Making this game has been a journey we’ve taken together from day one,” John and Evan Szymanski shared in the announcement. “Bringing it to Switch 2 feels like the perfect next chapter — and getting it into players’ hands right before Halloween? That’s the dream.”

    Mark Your Calendar

    My Friendly Neighborhood launches digitally on Nintendo Switch 2 — Thursday 22 October 2026. If you’ve been waiting to see what all the screaming is about, or you’re ready to revisit the neighbourhood on the go, the wait is almost over.

    Don’t let the smiles fool you — those puppets are still waiting.

    More Info: My Friendly Neighborhood

    #MyFriendlyNeighborhood #NintendoSwitch2 #DreadXP #IndieHorror #SurvivalHorror #HalloweenGaming #PuppetHorror #SzymanskiBrothers #Techmash

  • One Realm, Two Screens — Broken Ranks Launches Globally on Android with Full Cross-Platform Play

    One Realm, Two Screens — Broken Ranks Launches Globally on Android with Full Cross-Platform Play

    The grimdark realm of Broken Ranks is now in your pocket. Whitemoon Games, the independent studio based in Wroclaw, Poland, has officially launched its acclaimed free-to-play isometric MMORPG worldwide on Android, available right now via Google Play. More than just a mobile port, this release delivers the full tactical experience — and true cross-platform play with existing PC players from day one.

    What Is Broken Ranks?

    Originally released on PC back in January 2022, Broken Ranks has steadily built a dedicated following as a refreshing alternative to fast-paced, auto-play mobile MMOs. At its core:

    • Turn-based tactical combat — every encounter demands thought, positioning, and careful ability use; no auto-battling, no cutting corners
    • Isometric open world — explore a sprawling, gritty fantasy realm shaped by conflict and consequence
    • Seven playable classes — each with distinct roles, skill trees, and customisation paths
    • Guilds, raids & PvP — band together to conquer dungeons, claim territory, and test your strength against fellow adventurers
    • Deep narrative — a world scarred by war, where your choices ripple across kingdoms
    • Truly free-to-play — no intrusive ads, no pay-to-win; premium currency supports cosmetics and convenience

    Cross-Platform — Play Anywhere, Keep Everything

    This is where Broken Ranks stands apart from nearly every mobile MMORPG:

    • Shared servers — Android and PC players occupy the same worlds; no separate mobile shards
    • Seamless progression — one account, one character, all progress carries over instantly between devices
    • Unified economy — trade, craft, and chat across platforms without restriction
    • New international servers — European and American realms launched alongside the mobile release to welcome the global audience
    • iOS coming soon — Apple users aren’t forgotten; development is underway, though no firm date has been set

    Built for Touch, Faithful to the Core

    Whitemoon hasn’t dumbed down the experience for phones. The entire game — every quest, combat mechanic, item, and feature — makes the leap intact. The team has reworked the interface for touchscreens, refined menu navigation, and optimised performance across a wide range of devices, all while preserving the tactical depth that defines the game. Pre-registered players will also find an exclusive free fur cap cosmetic waiting in their inventory at login.

    From Wroc?aw to the World

    Whitemoon Games has been refining Broken Ranks since its early domestic mobile test phase earlier this year. The studio’s approach is deliberate: respect the player’s time, value their intelligence, and refuse to treat mobile as a lesser platform. The result is a rare thing — a mobile MMO that doesn’t ask you to compromise.

    Join the Fight

    Broken Ranks is free to download right now from Google Play, with PC players continuing via the official site and Steam. Whether you’re at your desk or on the move, your character, your friends, and your adventures stay right with you.

    More Info: Broken Ranks

    #BrokenRanks #WhitemoonGames #MMORPG #CrossPlatform #AndroidGames #FreeToPlay #RPG #PolishDev #Grimdark #MobileGaming #PC #GooglePlay #TacticalRPG #Techmash

  • Target Acquired — Hitman: Absolution Goes Physical on Nintendo Switch 2 via Limited Run Games

    Target Acquired — Hitman: Absolution Goes Physical on Nintendo Switch 2 via Limited Run Games

    Silence. Precision. Perfection. Limited Run Games, the premium publisher renowned for coveted physical editions of beloved games, has today announced that Agent 47 is making his mark on Nintendo Switch 2 — with a brand-new physical release of Hitman: Absolution. Pre-orders go live October 30, 2026, giving collectors and fans the chance to secure a permanent piece of the assassin’s legacy.

    The Assignment — What You’re Getting

    Originally developed by IO Interactive, ported by Feral Interactive, and now preserved in physical form by Limited Run Games, Hitman: Absolution brings the series’ signature stealth, action, and moral ambiguity to Nintendo’s latest hardware. Branded a traitor and hunted by the very Agency he once served, Agent 47 must navigate a world of corruption, betrayal, and impossible choices across 20 distinct missions — each one inviting you to play your way:

    • Silence is your weapon — slip through shadows, use disguises, eliminate targets without a trace
    • Force is an option — when stealth fails, your Silverballer pistols speak loud and clear
    • Five difficulty levels — from accessible to ruthlessly unforgiving
    • Gyro aiming — precision control built specifically for Nintendo platforms
    • Contracts Mode — create, share, and take on custom targets designed by players worldwide
    • Dual-compatible cartridge — plays on original Nintendo Switch and upgrades for Switch 2

    The Physical Package — Contents & Pricing

    Limited Run Games is delivering more than just a cartridge — it’s a complete keepsake:

    DetailInfo
    ReleaseHitman: Absolution — Nintendo Switch 2 Physical Edition
    IncludesGame card, premium case, 8-page full-colour booklet
    Price£45.00 / $49.99 / €55.95
    Pre-Order Opens30 October 2026 — 12:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM UK time
    Pre-Order Closes6 December 2026 — 11:59 PM ET
    Wherelimitedrungames.com/collections/hitman-absolution
    CompatibilityRegion-free; playable on original Switch + Switch 2 with upgrade pack

    This is an open pre-order window — no hidden allocations, no race against the clock the moment the page goes live. Place your order anytime between October 30 and December 6 and your copy will be produced. No purchase limits have been set.

    Why It Matters — Preserving the Legacy

    Hitman: Absolution originally launched in 2012, and has since been joined by the acclaimed World of Assassination trilogy. This physical edition ensures Absolution — with its cinematic story, memorable setpieces, and Contracts Mode — remains accessible in tangible form. Limited Run Games has become the custodian of choice for such releases, bridging digital convenience with the permanence collectors demand.

    Digital Also Available

    For players who prefer instant gratification, the digital edition launched simultaneously on the Nintendo eShop today, carrying a launch discount of 33% for the first two weeks. But for the shelf, the collection, and the future — the physical Limited Run release is the definitive way to own it.

    Mark Your Calendar

    October 30 is fast approaching. Set your alarms, steady your hand, and prepare to make the hit. Agent 47 doesn’t miss — and neither should you.

    More Info: Hitman Absolution

    #HitmanAbsolution #Hitman #Agent47 #LimitedRunGames #NintendoSwitch2 #Techmash #PhysicalRelease #IOInteractive #FeralInteractive #StealthGame #ActionAdventure

  • All Doors Now Open — Riddlewood Manor Exits Early Access, Full Haunt Live on Meta Quest

    All Doors Now Open — Riddlewood Manor Exits Early Access, Full Haunt Live on Meta Quest

    The wait is over. Peanut Button — the acclaimed indie studio behind The Secret of Retropolis and Retropolis 2: Never Say Goodbye — has officially released the complete version of Riddlewood Manor on the Meta Quest Store. Priced at $14.99, this hand-drawn VR horror-comedy has graduated from Early Access with the full story, fresh areas, quality-of-life upgrades, and secrets waiting for every kind of explorer.

    What Is Riddlewood Manor?

    The manor wants you dead. That’s not a figure of speech — it’s the premise. Every creaking floorboard, locked door, and shadowed corner hides a trap. Yet somehow, it’s all delivered with a twinkle in its eye: this is horror-comedy at its most charming, blending spooky atmosphere with dry wit, hand-painted visuals, and puzzles that test your brain more than your nerves.

    You arrive at the gloomy estate with one goal: uncover the tragic truth behind the Riddlewood family — and get out alive. What began as a slice of Early Access back in April 2026 has swelled into a full, sprawling adventure that rewards returning players with everything they asked for.

    What’s New in the Full Release?

    This isn’t just a polish pass — it’s the game Peanut Button always intended to make:

    • The complete story — every chapter, secret, and twist now woven into one cohesive narrative
    • New areas to explore — previously sealed wings, hidden passages, and shadowed chambers have been thrown open
    • Brand-new map system — never get lost again; track your progress across the manor’s maze-like layout
    • Secret endings — your choices shape how the haunting concludes; multiple outcomes await sharp-eyed players
    • Full voice acting — every ghost, ghoul, and grumpy presence speaks with character and personality
    • Localised for 12 languages — English, Simplified Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Brazilian Portuguese, and Spanish

    Built for VR — Comfort and Choice

    Riddlewood Manor runs beautifully across the entire Meta Quest family — Quest 2, Quest 3, Quest 3S, and Quest Pro — and respects how you want to play:

    • Seated or standing — no motion sickness required
    • Controllers or hand tracking — point, gesture, or grip; your call
    • Jump scare warning toggle — keep the atmosphere without the surprise
    • Early Access owners upgrade for free — already bought it? You get the full version at zero extra cost

    From Retropolis to Riddlewood

    Peanut Button has carved out a reputation for stylish, thoughtful adventures. Their Retropolis duology earned praise for vibrant worlds, sharp writing, and unforgettable characters. With Riddlewood Manor, they’ve traded sci-fi neon for gothic gloom — but kept every bit of that signature heart. The art style remains instantly recognisable: hand-drawn, expressive, and packed with personality. The tone? Equal parts spooky, silly, and sincerely touching.

    The Verdict — Worth the Wait

    Early Access feedback directly shaped this release. The map system? Player-requested. The expanded areas? Driven by community hunger for more. The result is a game that doesn’t just feature an audience — it was built with one. At $14.99 for a complete story with multiple endings, it stands as one of the most distinctive VR adventures of the year.

    Step Inside — If You Dare

    The Meta Quest Store page is live right now. Whether you’re returning to finish what you started or stepping across the threshold for the very first time, the doors are open. Just remember: the manor has a sense of humour. It might not be a nice one.

    More Info: Riddlewood Manor

    #RiddlewoodManor #PeanutButton #MetaQuest #VRGaming #HorrorComedy #IndieDev #PointAndClick #AdventureGame #HandDrawn #Retropolis #Quest3 #QuestPro #Techmash

  • The Full Battle Plan — Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War IV Drops 9-Minute Game Overview, Biggest Series Entry Ever

    The Full Battle Plan — Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War IV Drops 9-Minute Game Overview, Biggest Series Entry Ever

    For decades, the Dawn of War name has stood for thunderous RTS combat, gritty storytelling, and tactical warfare on a grand scale. Today, publisher Deep Silver and developer KING Art Games have laid bare everything you need to command — deploying a colossal nine-minute Game Overview trailer that confirms Dawn of War IV is the most ambitious, content-packed entry in the legendary series’ history.

    What the Overview Reveals — A War Worth Fighting

    This isn’t a fleeting teaser. It’s a frontline briefing — nine full minutes of detail, footage, and hard numbers that leave no doubt: Dawn of War IV is built to keep you fighting for months. Here’s what’s on the table:

    Four Distinct Playable Factions

    Every force brings its own playstyle, strengths, and narrative stakes:

    • Space Marines — including both the Blood Ravens and Dark Angels Chapters; elite, hard-hitting, and tactically flexible
    • Orks — brutal, fast-growing hordes that thrive on momentum and overwhelming force
    • Necrons — ancient, self-repairing legions with technology that bends reality
    • Aeldari — swift, elusive, and devastating when their coordinated strikes land

    Each faction carries its own campaign arc, feeding into one overarching conflict for control of the planet Kronus.

    Over 70 Missions — The Deepest Campaign Yet

    • More missions at launch than any Dawn of War title to date
    • Non-linear faction campaigns — shape the story from four unique perspectives
    • Co-op supported throughout key campaign chapters
    • Cinematic storytelling that builds on the legacy of Dark Crusade and beyond

    30 Multiplayer Maps

    • Maps designed for 1v1, 2v2, and 3v3 combat
    • Varied biomes across Kronus — ash wastes, ancient ruins, industrial zones, and more
    • Balanced for competitive play while offering distinct tactical opportunities
    • Skirmish vs AI included alongside online lobbies

    The Return — The Last Stand

    The beloved survival mode is back:

    • Choose your hero, defend against escalating waves
    • Solo or co-op with up to three players
    • Deep progression and loadout customisation
    • Built from community feedback to recapture what made the original a classic

    Army Customisation — Series-Defining Depth

    • Tailor doctrines, unit loadouts, and commander abilities
    • Distinct build paths for every faction
    • Visual customisation alongside tactical flexibility
    • Create an army that fights exactly how you want

    Deployment Details — When You Can Fight

    EditionAvailability
    Commander Edition — Early Unlock30 November 2026
    Standard Edition — Full Launch3 December 2026
    PlatformPC — Steam

    Pre-orders are live now, with an early-bird discount available.

    Beyond Launch — Year One Roadmap

    The war doesn’t end on day one. KING Art and Deep Silver have committed to:

    • Crusade Mode returning via free update
    • New maps, commanders, and the Mission Editor
    • Two major story expansions deepening the Kronus conflict
    • One additional playable faction arriving post-launch

    Why It Matters

    Dawn of War IV isn’t just a sequel — it’s a statement of intent from KING Art Games, the studio behind Iron Harvest, stepping up to steward one of RTS gaming’s most treasured franchises. The nine-minute overview lays out a promise: honour the past, expand the scope, and deliver a game that feels simultaneously familiar and fresh.

    From the moment the first boltgun fires to the last Necron monolith falls, this is shaping up to be the Dawn of War fans have been waiting for.

    Watch & Wishlist

    The full nine-minute Game Overview trailer is live now — watch it on the official Deep Silver YouTube channel or Steam store page. Wishlist today to stand ready when the war returns to Kronus.

    More Info: Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War IV

    #DawnOfWarIV #Warhammer40k #DeepSilver #KINGArtGames #RTS #PCGaming #Steam #Warhammer #TheLastStand #Techmash #StrategyGame #BloodRavens #Necrons #Orks #Aeldari

  • Contain, Clean, Conquer — Quarantine Lab Sort Opens Its Doors October 28

    Contain, Clean, Conquer — Quarantine Lab Sort Opens Its Doors October 28

    The gloves are on, the checklist is ready, and nothing is where it should be. Tovarishch Games — the minds behind the acclaimed Bunker Tidy Up — and simulation specialists PlayWay S.A. have officially announced that Quarantine Lab Sort will launch on Steam this 28th October 2026. It’s time to suit up, step inside, and restore order to a facility where every shelf is chaotic, every sample is mysterious, and every jar is best left… well, handled very carefully.

    What Is Quarantine Lab Sort?

    If you’ve ever stared at a mess and thought, “I can fix this,” prepare to meet your ultimate challenge. Where Bunker Tidy Up tasked you with organising a fallout shelter, this follow-up drops you into a high-security research lab that’s fallen into total disarray. Your mission: sort, catalogue, clean, and secure over 7,000 items across the facility — turning towering piles of clutter into pristine, labelled, perfectly ordered shelves.

    But this isn’t just colour-coding and alphabetising. The lab holds dangers and discoveries in equal measure:

    • Sort 250+ distinct item types — no endless duplicates; every category brings new shape, new logic, and new satisfaction
    • Analyse mysterious samples — load the centrifuge, run tests, and uncover what’s actually inside those sealed test tubes
    • Recapture escaped subjects — the lab’s residents have wandered loose; track them down and return them safely
    • Handle hazardous materials — radioactive waste requires caution, proper gear, and the right disposal procedure; cut corners and you’ll pay the price
    • Grow your skills — earn upgrade points for every item correctly placed; unlock faster workflows, better equipment, and new wings of the facility
    • See your progress — from disarray to discipline; watch rooms transform before your eyes

    From Bunkers to Laboratories — The Tovarishch Formula

    Tovarishch Games struck a chord with players through Bunker Tidy Up, proving that satisfying organisation, calm pacing, and meaningful progression could draw huge audiences. Quarantine Lab Sort builds on that foundation with fresh mechanics, greater variety, and a setting brimming with personality:

    “This isn’t just a bunker with new decorations. There are new mechanics to explore — examining test tubes in a centrifuge, catching escaped animals, and handling radioactive waste.”

    — Tovarishch Games

    Crucially, the team has listened to feedback: no grinding through hundreds of identical objects. Every item matters, every placement advances your skills, and the satisfaction of seeing an empty shelf fill with exactly what it needs remains front and centre.

    A Partnership Built on Simulation

    PlayWay S.A. has become synonymous with immersive simulation experiences — from Car Mechanic Simulator to House Flipper. Quarantine Lab Sort fits perfectly within their portfolio: a simple premise executed with depth, care, and genuine respect for the player’s time.

    DetailInfo
    DeveloperTovarishch Games
    PublisherPlayWay S.A.
    PlatformPC (Steam)
    Release Date28 October 2026
    GenreSimulation / Casual / Indie
    Steam PageLive now — wishlist today

    What’s More — Bunker Tidy Up Isn’t Done Yet

    Fans of the first game have even more to look forward to. Tovarishch has confirmed two updates for Bunker Tidy Up:

    • 23 October — New Game+ mode and quality-of-life refinements
    • 6 November — A free major update adding an entirely new room to sort

    Step Into the Lab

    The Steam store page is live right now — add Quarantine Lab Sort to your wishlist and be first in line when the doors open 28th October. Order has never felt this good.

    More Info: Quarantine Lab Sort

    #QuarantineLabSort #TovarishchGames #PlayWaySA #SimulationGame #IndieDev #OrganisationGame #Techmash #BunkerTidyUpFollowUp #PCGaming #Steam #CozyGaming

  • Possess, Protect, Delay — Souls of Bombarika Unleashes Steam Next Fest Demo, Release Pushed to Early 2027

    Possess, Protect, Delay — Souls of Bombarika Unleashes Steam Next Fest Demo, Release Pushed to Early 2027

    From the ethereal mists between worlds comes word of a haunting new puzzle adventure — and a promise to take just a little longer to get it right. Publisher 1312 Interactive and developer Street Lamp Games have revealed that Souls of Bombarika is haunting Steam Next Fest with a brand-new playable demo — but the full release, originally slated for late October 2026, has been gently pushed back to early 2027. The extra time will let the team polish every spectral interaction and weave in even more story content before conjuring the game into its final form.

    What Is Souls of Bombarika? — Every Object Has a Soul

    The spiritual successor to the award-winning Bombarika, this supernatural puzzle game casts you as a lost spirit thrust into a shadowy conflict. You don’t control people — you possess things. Sofas, toasters, books, brooms — every ordinary household item becomes your hands, your voice, and your only weapon as you rearrange the world to guide the living to safety before disaster strikes.

    At its core:

    • Systems-driven puzzles — every level is a living machine of cause and effect; move an object, trigger a chain reaction, alter the outcome
    • Story-rich supernatural narrative — you’re not just solving puzzles; you’re rebelling against dark forces, uncovering secrets, and forging connections from beyond the veil
    • Save lives under pressure — time is never on your side; plan fast, adapt faster, and remember: one small shift can change everything
    • Possess the mundane — turn furniture, gadgets, and trinkets into tools, distractions, and shields
    • Cross-platform arrival — launching on PC (Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2

    The Demo — Step Into the Spirit World Today

    The free playable demo is live right now throughout Steam Next Fest (19–26 October 2026), offering players their first hands-on taste of possession, puzzles, and the game’s atmospheric hand-painted world. It’s a chance to shape the final experience — feedback from demo players will directly inform tweaks and refinements over the coming months.

    The Delay — A Promise Made Manifest

    Originally scheduled for 29 October 2026, the launch window has shifted to early 2027 across all platforms. Deepak Gurijala, founder of Street Lamp Games, emphasised that the decision is entirely about respect — for the game, for the players, and for the vision they’ve nurtured since the original Bombarika took the indie scene by storm. The extra months will be used to:

    • Polish and balance every puzzle interaction
    • Expand the narrative with additional scenes and character beats
    • Refine visual and audio polish across all levels
    • Ensure consistency across every platform

    “It’s ready enough to show you,” the team shared. “But it deserves to be perfect before we invite you to stay.”

    From Award-Winning Roots

    Street Lamp Games emerged from Hyderabad, India, to win Best Mobile Game at Indie Prize Casual Connect Europe 2019 with the original Bombarika, along with Indie Game of the Year at IGDC 2018 — a run of recognition that put Indian indie development firmly on the map in document 3. Souls of Bombarika represents the studio’s most ambitious leap yet: scaling up, going cross-platform, and deepening every part of what made their breakthrough hit special.

    Wishlist & Try the Demo

    The Steam page is live — grab the demo before Next Fest closes on 26 October, and add Souls of Bombarika to your wishlist to catch every spectral update as it unfolds. The wait is a touch longer — but a haunting worth remembering is worth getting right.

    More Info: Souls Of Bombarika

    #SoulsOfBombarika #1312Interactive #StreetLampGames #SteamNextFest #IndieDev #PuzzleGame #Supernatural #NarrativeGame #PC #PS5 #Xbox #NintendoSwitch #Techmash

  • Shape Minds, Rule the Stars — Stellaris: Willpower Expansion Launches November 23

    Shape Minds, Rule the Stars — Stellaris: Willpower Expansion Launches November 23

    Borders define territory. Ideas define empires. Paradox Interactive and co-developer Abrakam have today unveiled Willpower, the next major expansion for their landmark sci-fi grand strategy game Stellaris — and it’s arriving sooner than you think. Launching Monday 23rd November 2026 on PC, this game-changing pack turns your empire’s deepest beliefs into your most powerful weapon: spread your values across the galaxy, reshape civilisations from within, and lead not just through conquest, but through conviction.

    What Is Willpower? — Belief as a Galactic Force

    Every empire in Stellaris is built on Ethics — the core principles that guide your society. Willpower elevates those convictions into living, breathing Ideologies — movements with the power to cross borders, sway foreign populations, and destabilise rival empires without firing a single shot.

    Here’s what awaits:

    Build Your Ideology

    • Evolve your core Ethics into a formal Ideology with unique Tenets and strengths
    • Spread your influence via Starbases, Hyper Relays, and Ideological Beacons that project your values deep into neighbouring space
    • Watch as foreign worlds adopt your beliefs, spawning Fanatic Factions that campaign for alignment with your empire — from the inside out
    • Maintain Momentum — stray too far from your own Tenets, and disillusionment may turn your own population against you

    Monuments to Your Values

    • Deploy the Galactic Hall — a mobile orbital megastructure that amplifies your ideological influence across entire star systems
    • Customise modules to boost production, spread propaganda, or reinforce loyalty
    • Construct Cathedrals and other grand monuments to cement your legacy on colony surfaces

    New Paths, New Beginnings

    • Three new Origins to launch your campaign:
      • Golden Generation — raise leaders in a dedicated academy, nurturing talent from youth to greatness
      • Lost Makers — a machine intelligence seeking the long-forgotten creators who built you
      • Great Mosaic — begin with an extra Civic, a society woven from diverse threads
    • Five new Fanatic Civics to sharpen your society’s identity
    • New Force of Will Ambition — pursue galactic supremacy through influence rather than warfare
    • Over 40 Ideology events and 8 ideologically aligned Paragons to recruit

    Price & Availability

    Willpower is the second major release in Season 10, following the earlier Nomads expansion. You can grab it in two ways:

    Table

    OptionDetails
    Season 10 Expansion PassWillpower is included — no extra purchase needed
    Standalone Pre-OrderAvailable now — £20.99 / $24.99 / €24.99
    Release Date23 November 2026 — PC (Steam, Paradox Store, Epic)

    Pre-purchasers get immediate confirmation, with all content unlocking on launch day alongside the free Corona Borealis (v4.6) game update.

    Why It Matters — A New Way to Conquer

    For nearly a decade, Stellaris has let players explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate. Willpower adds a fifth, subtler path: persuasion. You can still conquer every system — but now, you can also wait for worlds to join you of their own accord. It’s grand strategy reimagined: influence is the new border, and loyalty is the ultimate resource.

    Of course, ideas can also tear empires apart. Let your Ideology radicalise unchecked, and those same Fanatic Factions could turn on you. Stay true to your values, and the galaxy might just follow.

    Wishlist & Prepare

    Pre-orders are live right now — secure your copy today and be ready to lead when the stars align on November 23rd.

    More Info: Stellaris

    #Stellaris #Willpower #ParadoxInteractive #Abrakam #Techmash #GrandStrategy #SciFi #PCGaming #Steam #EpicGamesStore #ParadoxPlaza #Season10 #4X #SpaceStrategy #November2026

  • Grab Your Helmet — Pratfall Plummets to Consoles Early 2027, PS5 / Xbox Series X|S / Switch 2 Confirmed

    Grab Your Helmet — Pratfall Plummets to Consoles Early 2027, PS5 / Xbox Series X|S / Switch 2 Confirmed

    Your best friend has vanished down a suspiciously large hole. There are traps, crumbling ledges, and one very unforgiving force waiting below: gravity. Publisher Daedalic Entertainment and Leverkusen-based indie studio Quad Head have officially announced that their breakout co-op cave adventure Pratfall is making the leap from PC to consoles — landing on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch 2 in early 2027. Pre-orders are scheduled to open late 2026.

    What Is Pratfall? — Dig, Fall, Rescue, Repeat

    Launched on Steam back in April 2026, Pratfall quickly won over players with its simple, irresistible premise: every dog owner would dive into the unknown for their best friend. Here, you do exactly that — and it’s chaotic, physics-heavy, and utterly hilarious.

    • Explore a massive, procedurally generated cave system — no two runs are identical across three distinct biomes
    • Dig, blast, and build your own path using pickaxes, drills, bombs, ziplines, and more
    • Team up — play solo or gather up to 4 players in smooth online co-op; catch friends as they fall, revive them when they don’t stick the landing… or just toss them into hazards if you’re feeling chaotic
    • Find all the missing dogs — it turns out yours isn’t the only one who vanished; rescue pups, earn rewards, and unlock cosmetic treats from the park’s gumball machines
    • Voice proximity chat — hear your teammates echo as they drift apart into the dark; panic sounds even better when it’s distant
    • Destructible terrain — walls, floors, and bridges can be broken, blown up, or mined away; the world is as fragile as your balance

    From Steam Hit to Full Console Launch

    Originally self-published by Quad Head on PC, Pratfall caught Daedalic’s eye with its infectious blend of approachable fun and genuine challenge. The result? A publishing partnership that brings the game to every major console platform. For Quad Head — a small team based in Leverkusen, Germany — this marks their biggest milestone yet, turning a beloved indie hit into a cross-platform favourite.

    Table

    PlatformRelease WindowPre-Orders
    PlayStation 5Early 2027Late 2026
    Xbox Series XSEarly 2027
    Nintendo Switch 2Early 2027Late 2026
    PC (Steam)Available Now—

    Why It Works — Gravity Is the Real Villain

    Pratfall’s genius lies in its refusal to let you feel safe. Ledges crumble, jumps miss, and one mistimed step can send you tumbling through multiple screens of dark cavern. Yet it never feels unfair — just gloriously funny. You’ll laugh at your own clumsiness, cheer when a teammate catches you, and groan when someone’s explosive enthusiasm takes out the floor beneath everyone. It’s co-op designed to bring you closer — mostly so you can grab each other before plummeting.

    Ready to Jump?

    PC players can already grab Pratfall right now on Steam. Console keepers — mark your calendars: pre-orders open late this year, and the descent begins early 2027. Whether you’re rescuing your pup or just rescuing your friends from themselves, this is one cave expedition you won’t want to miss.

    More Info: Pratfall

    #Pratfall #DaedalicEntertainment #QuadHead #CoOpGaming #IndieDev #PhysicsGame #CaveAdventure #NintendoSwitch2 #PS5 #XboxSeriesX #PCGaming #Steam #RescueTheDog #Early2027 #Techmash

  • Half a Million Strong — Fatekeeper Smashes 500,000 Sales Milestone… While Still in Early Access

    Half a Million Strong — Fatekeeper Smashes 500,000 Sales Milestone… While Still in Early Access

    You don’t usually see numbers like this before version 1.0 drops. Developer Paraglacial and publisher THQ Nordic have confirmed today that their action-RPG Fatekeeper has officially crossed 500,000 copies sold — and the game is still in Early Access. Launched back in June 2026 on Steam, this swords-and-sorcery standout has carved out an enormous audience in just months, powered by word of mouth, glowing player feedback, and a rock-solid foundation that keeps getting better.

    What Is Fatekeeper?

    Built by a 13-strong team at indie studio Paraglacial and published under the THQ Nordic banner, Fatekeeper blends fluid, reactive melee combat with devastating magical abilities — all wrapped in a system designed to let you play your way. Whether you favour heavy blades and plate armour, lightning-fast strikes and precision, or raw elemental power that shatters the battlefield, the game supports genuinely distinct, viable builds that evolve as you uncover new gear.

    At a glance:

    • Reactive melee combat — timing, positioning, and weapon choice matter as much as raw stats
    • Spell-sword synergy — weave magic into combos, augment strikes with elements, or lean entirely into sorcery
    • Flexible progression — no locked classes; grow your character through what you equip and how you fight
    • Loot to master — discover hundreds of weapons, armours, and artefacts that don’t just boost numbers but fundamentally change how you play
    • Challenging encounters — enemies demand adaptation; patterns, weaknesses, and approaches shift across every region

    The Milestone — Why 500K Means Something Special

    Hitting half a million sales before full launch is rare. It speaks to something deeper than marketing hype: players are voting with their wallets to support a game that is growing alongside them. The team has explicitly credited the community — every review, every piece of feedback, every shared build — with shaping the journey so far. Priced at €9.99 / $9.99, Fatekeeper has also made itself accessible, turning affordability into one of its greatest strengths.

    Steam community reaction has been swift and warm: “Absolutely deserved,” “Patience will be rewarded — it delivers well in Early Access,” and “You already have enough support to finish strong” are typical of the sentiment flooding in across discussions.

    What’s Next? The Road to 1.0

    The big number is a milestone, not a finish line. Paraglacial continues expanding the world, refining balance, and adding fresh content — all while keeping dialogue open with the player base that got it here. Every update tightens combat, broadens build options, and deepens the adventure. The message from the team is clear: this is just the beginning.

    For anyone waiting to dive in — or holding off until later — there has never been a better time. With half a million fellow travellers already on board, Fatekeeper is shaping up to be one of the success stories of the year.

    Join the Journey

    Fatekeeper is available right now in Early Access via Steam for £8.50 / $9.99 / €9.99. Wishlist, jump in, and help forge the game as it grows. Your feedback won’t just shape your experience — it’ll shape the final release.

    More Info: Fatekeeper

    #Fatekeeper #Paraglacial #THQNordic #EarlyAccess #ActionRPG #IndieDev #PCGaming #Steam #HalfMillionSold #Techmash #SwordAndSorcery #GamingMilestone #BuildYourPath