TECHMASH

Category: Gamers

  • Master the Art of the Puppet Brawl: Efecto Studios Reveals ‘Bunraku’—Play It Free on Steam Right Now!

    Master the Art of the Puppet Brawl: Efecto Studios Reveals ‘Bunraku’—Play It Free on Steam Right Now!

    The curtains are pulling back, the lights are up, and a brand-new kind of chaos is coming to the multiplayer arena. Veteran Colombian independent developer Efecto Studios has officially pulled the wraps off their latest project: Bunraku.

    If you are tired of the same old cookie-cutter fighters and are looking for something with serious artistic flair and frantic energy, this is one to put directly onto your radar. Destined for Steam, PlayStation 5, and the Nintendo Switch 2, Bunraku blends fast-paced platform brawler mechanics with a gorgeous visual style deeply inspired by the ancient art of Japanese puppetry.

    What is Bunraku?

    Named after the traditional form of Japanese puppet theatre, Bunraku places players in dynamic, shifting theatre arenas. But don’t expect a polite, quiet stage play. This is a high-octane multiplayer brawler where up to eight players can face off simultaneously—either via chaotic local couch play or online against rival puppeteers.

    The core gameplay centres around swift ninja dashing, precise parrying, and environmental mastery. Players can find scrolls scattered across the stage to trigger powerful Jutsu abilities, turning the tide of battle in a single, cinematic stroke.

    Key Features at a Glance:

    • Frantic Ninja Fights: One-hit-strike mechanics driven by precision dashing and split-second parries.
    • Up to 8-Player Chaos: Bring the whole squad with support for massive local or online PvP battles.
    • Traditional Aesthetics, Modern Pace: A striking visual style that treats the game arena like a shifting theatre stage.
    • Next-Gen Ready: In development for PC, PS5, and Nintendo’s highly anticipated Switch successor.

    Play Bunraku for Free This Weekend!

    You don’t have to wait until launch to get your hands on the strings. Efecto Studios has just launched a free playtest on Steam, open from right now until June 14.

    Whether you want to test your reflexes against the community or grab some friends for a chaotic couch-gaming session, the theatre doors are officially open. Head over to the Bunraku Steam store page, click “Request Access,” and start mastering your inner battle puppeteer.

    Check Out the Game & Join the Discussion

    • Steam Store Page: Search for Bunraku on Steam to wishlist and join the playtest.
    • Developer: Efecto Studios

    #BunrakuGame #IndieDev #SteamPlaytest #Switch2 #GamingNews

  • Descend into Madness: Indie Roguelike ‘HELLEVATORS’ Drops Free Steam Demo on June 8th

    Descend into Madness: Indie Roguelike ‘HELLEVATORS’ Drops Free Steam Demo on June 8th

    If you’ve ever thought your daily commute was a nightmare, solo developer Kohl Meek is about to show you just how good you actually have it.

    Get ready to swap your Oyster card for a shotgun, because HELLEVATORS—a blistering, fast-paced bullet hell action-roguelike—is officially letting players board its infernal public transit system for the very first time.

    Next Stop: Bullet Hell

    In HELLEVATORS, Hell isn’t just a pit of fire; it’s a chaotic, ever-shifting transit network. Players will have to fight their way through waves of demonic entities, dodging a relentless barrage of projectiles while navigating the tight, claustrophobic confines of the underworld’s elevators and subway cars.

    As a roguelike, death is just part of the schedule. You can expect to die, upgrade your arsenal, and jump right back in for another frantic commute.

    Catch the Demo at Steam Bullet Fest

    The exciting news lands just ahead of Steam’s Bullet Fest, a week-long celebration of all things high-velocity and bullet-heavy running from June 8th through June 15th.

    • What: A free, playable public demo of HELLEVATORS.
    • When: Launching June 8th.
    • Where: Exclusively on Steam.

    This will be the first time the public can get their hands on the game’s tight mechanics and experience the adrenaline-fueled chaos firsthand.

    When is the Full Release?

    While the demo will give us a delicious, stress-inducing taste of the action this month, we’ll have to wait a little longer for the full itinerary. Kohl Meek has slated the full release of HELLEVATORS for Q4 2026.

    Judging by the premise, it looks well worth the wait for any fan of Enter the Gungeon, Vampire Survivors, or classic arcade bullet hells.

    TechMash Verdict: Mark your calendars for June 8th, head over to Steam, and make sure you don’t miss your stop. This is one public transit system you’ll actually want to get stuck in.

    Source

    #Hellevators #IndieGames #SteamBulletFest #BulletHell #PCGaming

  • Sugar Rush, Ammo Flush: ‘Sugar Madness’ Explodes Onto Meta Horizon Store Today!

    Sugar Rush, Ammo Flush: ‘Sugar Madness’ Explodes Onto Meta Horizon Store Today!

    Get your headsets charged and your reflexes dialled in, because a sweet new chaos has just dropped. Sugar Madness, the highly anticipated high-intensity VR shooter, officially launches today on the Meta Horizon Store.

    If you think a game named after confectionery is going to be a walk in the park, you’re in for a chaotic, adrenaline-fueled awakening.

    Solo Sweat or Co-op Chaos? You Choose.

    Sugar Madness isn’t here to hold your hand. The game thrusts players into a vibrant but lethal world where the action is relentless, and the room for error is absolute zero.

    Here is what you can expect when you dive in today:

    • Pulse-Pounding Solo Missions: Test your mettle against waves of unforgiving enemies. It’s just you, your blasters, and your physical endurance.
    • Tactical Co-op Play: Team up with friends where mindless shooting won’t cut it. To survive the sweet apocalypse, you’ll need real-time squad communication and synchronised strategy.

    Survival of the Quickest

    What sets Sugar Madness apart in a crowded VR shooter market is its emphasis on fluid movement and lightning-fast reactions.

    Pro Tip: Standing still is a death sentence. You’ll need to utilize full room-scale movement, dodging, ducking, and weaving through incoming fire while managing your ammunition and cooldowns.

    It’s the kind of game that doubles as a legitimate cardio workout. If you aren’t sweating five minutes into a match, you’re probably doing it wrong.

    Lock and Load

    The game is available right now. Whether you’re looking to top the global leaderboards by your lonesome or establish dominance with your ultimate co-op squad, Sugar Madness promises to be a staple in your VR rotation.

    Head over to the Meta Horizon Store today, grab your copy, and let us know in the comments below: How long did you survive your first run?

    Source

    #VRGaming #SugarMadness #MetaHorizon #VRShooter #CoOpGaming

  • Tiny Mice, Big Exorcisms: Odencat’s Mousebusters Scampers Onto Steam This June!

    Tiny Mice, Big Exorcisms: Odencat’s Mousebusters Scampers Onto Steam This June!

    Indie game fans and pixel art aficionados, look alive. The brilliant minds over at Odencat Inc. have just dropped some fantastic news: their hit “cute and spooky” horror adventure, Mousebusters, is officially making the leap to PC via Steam on Thursday, June 11, 2026.

    If you’ve been looking for a game that perfectly balances charming aesthetics with eerie, supernatural vibes, this pint-sized thriller is about to take over your wishlist.

    What is Mousebusters?

    Imagine moving into a new apartment complex, only to immediately get transformed into a mouse. Rough start, right? But it gets weirder.

    In Mousebusters, you are tasked with teaming up with a squad of seasoned rodent ghost-hunters to save your eccentric human neighbours from the literal inner demons infecting their apartments. It’s a narrative-driven, point-and-click adventure wrapped in stunning, nostalgic pixel art.

    You’ll be sneaking around under the radar, finding clues, and zapping spooky spirits—all while trying to figure out how to get your human body back.

    Good News for Content Creators: Streaming Guidelines Announced

    Odencat knows how much the indie community relies on Let’s Plays and live streams, so they’ve graciously published their official streaming guidelines right alongside the release announcement.

    If you’re a streamer or YouTuber, here is what you need to know to stay in the clear:

    • Monetisation is A-OK: Both individual creators and corporate channels are fully permitted to stream the game and turn on monetisation.
    • Show the Whole Story: Unlike some studios that block the endgame, Odencat is letting you stream any and all parts of the game.
    • Keep it High Effort: The developers kindly ask that you add value to the footage. Raw, unedited playthroughs with no voiceover or commentary are a no-go.
    • Link Back: You are requested to include the URL to the Mousebusters website or prominently mention where your viewers can purchase the game.

    It’s refreshing to see a developer lay out such creator-friendly rules ahead of launch, making it incredibly easy for the community to rally behind the game.

    Mark Your Calendars

    Mousebusters will be available on Steam for $12.99 starting June 11, 2026. If you can’t wait until next week to start busting some ghosts, a free demo is available on their Steam page right now.

    Will you be picking up your proton pack (or whatever it is mice use) to save the apartment complex? Let us know in the comments!

    #Mousebusters #Odencat #IndieGames #SteamRelease #PixelArt

  • Unplug and Unwind: Cosy Puzzle Game ‘Hakoniwa Electric’ Drops a Shockingly Relaxing Steam Demo

    Unplug and Unwind: Cosy Puzzle Game ‘Hakoniwa Electric’ Drops a Shockingly Relaxing Steam Demo

    If your soul is crying out for a break from high-stakes battle royales and stressful competitive shooters, we have some fantastic news for you. Pop the kettle on, grab your favourite blanket, and get ready to zone out, because a gorgeous new indie title just landed on Steam.

    Solo indie developer ANETTAI has officially released the playable demo for Hakoniwa Electric—and it’s exactly the kind of wholesome, low-stress escape we need right now.

    What is Hakoniwa Electric?

    Hakoniwa is a Japanese term that translates to “box garden” or “miniature landscape,” and that’s precisely the vibe this game nails.

    Hakoniwa Electric is a cosy puzzle-exploration game where you are tasked with bringing a series of charming, diorama-like worlds to life. The core gameplay revolves around a beautifully simple concept: connecting electrical circuits to power up whimsical miniature landscapes.

    As you successfully route the power, the static, quiet dioramas begin to blink, buzz, and bloom with life. There are no ticking timers, no game-over screens, and zero pressure. It’s just you, some clever logic puzzles, and a deeply satisfying sense of calm.

    Why You Should Download the Demo Today

    Aside from the fact that it costs absolutely nothing to try, here is why Hakoniwa Electric deserves a spot on your Steam wishlist:

    • Solo-Dev Magic: There is something incredibly special about games crafted by a single vision. ANETTAI has poured immense love into the game’s aesthetic and mechanical design, and it shows.
    • Brain-Teasing, Not Brain-Melting: The puzzles are engaging enough to keep you hooked, but intuitive enough that you won’t need to look up a walkthrough every five minutes.
    • The Ultimate Cooldown Game: Featuring a soothing lo-fi soundtrack and soft, inviting visuals, it’s the perfect title to play at the end of a long workday or right before bed.

    Play It Right Now

    The playable demo is officially live and free to download on Steam. If you fall in love with its miniature worlds (and we have a feeling you will), don’t forget to hit that Wishlist button to support a talented solo developer!

    Ready to find your zen? Head over to Steam and search for Hakoniwa Electric to start playing today.

    Find out more here

    #CozyGames #IndieDev #SteamDemo #HakoniwaElectric #WholesomeGaming

  • Type to Terminate: Solo Developer J.N.0.1 Reveals Frantic Typing-Shooter ‘KILLPHRASE’

    Type to Terminate: Solo Developer J.N.0.1 Reveals Frantic Typing-Shooter ‘KILLPHRASE’

    The classic typing game formula is getting a cyberpunk, mechanical makeover. New Zealand-based solo indie developer J.N.0.1 has officially pulled back the curtain on KILLPHRASE, an intense, high-stakes 2D typing-shooter. Alongside the announcement, the game’s Steam store page is officially live, and a brand-new announcement trailer has dropped to give players a taste of this frantic mechanical hell.

    Check out the official announcement trailer below to see your keyboard turned into a weapon:

    The Premise: Mowing Down Machines with Words

    In KILLPHRASE, a malignant AI is ravaging the world. As a human survivor, you are trapped on a hacked freight elevator descending into a heavily corrupted robotics facility. Your goal? Reach the very bottom to execute the final Killphrase.

    Standing in your way is a metal tide of deranged machines. To survive, you’ll need to rely entirely on your typing speed and accuracy.

    Key Features

    • Type to Terminate: Every correct keystroke fires your weapon. Complete the full word or phrase to obliterate the target robot in front of you.
    • GUN JAMMED!!: Precision is just as important as speed. If you make a typo, your gun will jam. You’ll need to clear the jam immediately before an aggressive machine self-destructs directly in your face.
    • Tactical EMP: Successful typing streaks charge a powerful EMP device. When unleashed, it freezes incoming enemies and completely disintegrates smaller, fast-moving units.
    • Branching Elevator Paths: As you descend, elevator junctions will force you to choose your path. You can risk a high-difficulty route for better resources and leaderboard scores, take a breather on a safer floor, or brave themed word zones like the Triage Sector—where medical rogue robots attempt to “cure” you by terminating you.
    • Bite-Sized Runs: Designed with short, intense gameplay loops in mind, a standard run lasts about 30–40 minutes.

    For the hardcore typing enthusiasts, the game features an unlockable Infinite Mode, leaderboards to track your fastest words, and an Ironman mode for the ultimate test of digital dexterity.

    Wishlist Now on Steam

    With a distinct, atmospheric hand-drawn art style, dark humour, and an energetic electronic soundtrack, KILLPHRASE is shaping up to be a standout title for fans of arcade score-attack games and frantic indie action.

    KILLPHRASE is slated to launch on PC in Q4 2026. You can check out the official KILLPHRASE Steam Store Page right now to read up on the full lexicon and add it to your wishlist.

    #IndieGames #KILLPHRASE #TypingGame #PCGaming #SteamWishlist

  • Secrets Out! dotAGE: Trade Secrets DLC Launches on Steam with Massive New Mechanics

    Secrets Out! dotAGE: Trade Secrets DLC Launches on Steam with Massive New Mechanics

    Indie strategy fans, it’s time to call a village meeting. Solo developer Michele Pirovano has officially released the highly anticipated second DLC for his hit rogue-lite village builder, dotAGE. Titled Trade Secrets, the massive new expansion is available right now on Steam, bringing a wealth of features that completely reshape how you survive the apocalypse.

    According to Pirovano, some of the core mechanics introduced in this expansion have been on his wishlist to implement for nearly a decade.

    What’s New in Trade Secrets?

    If you thought managing your Pips was intense before, Trade Secrets blows the village gates wide open by encouraging your clan to finally look beyond their borders.

    • Brave New World (Expeditions): For the first time, your Pips can conquer their fears and venture into the wilderness. With over 100 unique expeditions to discover, sending out teams can yield rare resources, lost blueprints, or—in classic dotAGE fashion—unfamiliar new diseases and ailments.
    • Trading Places: A mysterious group known as the Goldlings has noticed your village. By building roads, markets, and warehouses, you can now trade your stockpiled goods for a brand-new resource: Coins.
    • Born to Ride (Equipment Mechanic): Pips have discovered transportation! You can now craft boats, build carts, harvest resources more efficiently, and tame horses to rapidly expand your reach across the map.
    • Three New Elders: Ready to change up your playstyle? The DLC introduces three new leaders with distinct mechanics: Wanna the Merchant, Darwin the Explorer, and the elusive Granny.

    Celebrate with a Massive Discount

    To mark the launch, the base game of dotAGE is currently featured as a Steam Daily Deal. If you or a friend have been waiting to jump into this mercilessly addictive turn-based survival simulator, you can grab the base game right now at its highest discount ever—40% off—for the next couple of weeks.

    Whether you’re looking to hoard coins with Wanna or risk the wildlands with Darwin, Trade Secrets promises to inject an incredible amount of depth (and fresh ways to trigger Doomsday) into one of indie gaming’s best hidden gems.

    Head over to Steam, update your game, and go see what secrets the outside world is holding for your Pips!

    Find out more here

    #IndieGames #dotAGE #StrategyGames #SteamDeals #PCGaming

  • From Peasants to Politicians: ‘The Guild – Europa 1410’ Hits Early Access This July

    From Peasants to Politicians: ‘The Guild – Europa 1410’ Hits Early Access This July

    Step aside, modern management sims. It’s time to throw on your finest linen tunic, sharpen your political wit, and step into the mud and glory of the 15th century.

    The Guild – Europa 1410 is officially opening its gates to Steam Early Access on July 16th, and it’s shaping up to be the ultimate medieval life simulator. If you’ve ever wanted to build an economic empire from scratch, scheme your way into high office, or just run a highly successful, slightly shady bakery in the Holy Roman Empire, your time has come.

    What is ‘The Guild – Europa 1410’?

    For the uninitiated, The Guild series is a unique cocktail of historical life simulation, economic strategy, and role-playing. You don’t just manage a city from a bird’s-eye view; you live in it.

    In Europa 1410, you are dropped into the bustling, chaotic cities of Central Europe during a time of massive transition. The old feudal order is fracturing, trade routes are booming, and for the first time, commoners with enough ambition can climb the social ladder.

    The Core Premise: Every street corner brings opportunities to make a fortune, gain influence, and create a family dynasty that will last for centuries.

                      [ Your Humble Beginnings ]
                             ?
                             ?
         [ Craft Goods & Dominate Local Markets ]
                             ?
                             ?
       [ Buy Properties & Expand Business Empire ]
                             ?
                             ?
    [ Bribery, Politics, & Marrying into Royalty ]
                             ?
                             ?
                [ A Centuries-Long Dynasty ]

    Strategy, Sabotage, and Success

    Success in Europa 1410 isn’t just about supply chains and profit margins—though keeping your business afloat is crucial. It’s about power. Once you’ve secured enough coin from your workshops, the real game begins:

    • Build Your Dynasty: Marry strategically, produce heirs, and ensure your family name survives through generations.
    • Play the Politics: Run for public office, vote on city laws, and use your position to make life miserable for your rivals.
    • Choose Your Path: Will you be an honest craftsman, a wealthy merchant, a devout cleric, or a master of the criminal underworld?

    If a competitor is undercutting your prices, you could try to optimise your production… or you could just hire a few thugs to burn their warehouse down. The choice is yours (just don’t get caught by the city watch).

    Mark Your Calendars

    Whether you’re a long-time fan of the franchise or a newcomer looking for a deep, emergent strategy game, The Guild – Europa 1410 promises a sandbox experience like no other.

    The gates open on July 16th. Will you rise to become the ultimate powerhouse of the Holy Roman Empire, or will your family name be forgotten in the mud?

    Head over to Steam to wishlist it now, and let us know in the comments below: what’s your opening strategy going to be?

    Find out more here

    #TheGuildEuropa1410 #MedievalSim #GamingNews #StrategyGames #SteamEarlyAccess

  • From Mobile to Major Leagues: War Robots Explodes Onto PlayStation and Xbox!

    From Mobile to Major Leagues: War Robots Explodes Onto PlayStation and Xbox!

    Mobile gaming giants, brace yourselves. One of the biggest tactical PvP shooters on the planet is officially breaking out of your pocket and taking over the big screen.

    MY.GAMES has officially announced that War Robots, the smash-hit mech-battler developed by their in-house studio Pixonic, is expanding to consoles. As of today, players can jump into the cockpit and pilot their massive steel beasts on PlayStation®4 and PlayStation®5, with Xbox versions locked, loaded, and set to follow shortly.

    The Evolution of a Mobile Titan

    For over a decade, War Robots has been a dominant force in the mobile gaming landscape, racking up hundreds of millions of downloads and maintaining a fiercely loyal player base. But Pixonic was never going to stop at touchscreens.

    This console launch is the next major step in a gradual, calculated rollout across major gaming platforms, by bringing the game to PlayStation and Xbox, MY.GAMES isn’t just porting a mobile title—they are unleashing a fully optimised, high-fidelity tactical shooter tailored for the console experience.

    What to Expect on Console

    If you thought managing 6v6 tactical warfare was intense on a 6-inch screen, wait until you experience it on a 4K display with a controller in hand. Here is what console players can look forward to:

    • Immersive Big-Screen Battles: Witness the gritty, metallic chaos of mech warfare with enhanced graphics and smooth performance optimised for modern hardware.
    • Precision Control: Swap touch controls for the tactile precision of the DualSense or Xbox controller, making every aimed missile volley and defensive dash feel incredibly satisfying.
    • A Massive Universe from Day One: Console newcomers are stepping into a rich, deep ecosystem featuring dozens of customizable robots, hundreds of weapon combinations, and deep tactical meta-strategies developed over years of live-service evolution.

    The Rollout Strategy: PlayStation First, Xbox Next

    The launch strategy ensures that the game scales perfectly to its new environments:

    1. PlayStation 4 & PlayStation 5: Available right now. Head over to the PlayStation Store to download it for free and start dominating the battlefield today.
    2. Xbox Series X|S & Xbox One: The development team is putting the final polish on the Xbox versions, which are scheduled to deploy shortly.

    The Verdict: This move proves that the line between high-end mobile games and console experiences is officially gone. War Robots has earned its spot on the big screen, and the console community is about to get a whole lot louder.

    Are you downloading War Robots on PlayStation today, or are you holding the line for the Xbox release? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #GamingNews #WarRobots #PlayStation #Xbox #SciFi

  • Slingshots, Swords, or Sci-Fi? Sime Returns Drops Its First Public Steam Demo Ahead of Steam Next Fest!

    Slingshots, Swords, or Sci-Fi? Sime Returns Drops Its First Public Steam Demo Ahead of Steam Next Fest!

    The countdown to Steam Next Fest is officially on, but indie fans just got an early Christmas present.

    The developer behind the highly anticipated Sime Returns has just unleashed its first-ever public demo on Steam! Dropping on June 3, 2026, this sneak peek gives players a head start on the Next Fest madness, offering a hands-on look at what promises to be one of the summer’s breakout hits.

    Here is everything you need to know about why you should stop what you’re doing and hit that “Download Demo” button right now.

    What is Sime Returns?

    If you haven’t had this one on your wishlist yet, let’s get you up to speed. Sime Returns has been turning heads in the indie community for its unique art style, tight mechanics, and immersive world-building.

    While details on the full narrative have been kept under wraps, early teasers suggest a perfect blend of nostalgic gameplay and modern, polished execution. Whether you are a fan of punishing boss fights, intricate puzzle-platforming, or rich lore, Sime Returns is shaping up to deliver exactly what modern gamers crave: a game built with passion, not corporate checklists.

    Why Drop the Demo Early?

    Steam Next Fest is an absolute wonderland for gamers, but let’s be real—it can also be a massive tidal wave of content. With hundreds of playable previews dropping at once, it’s easy for brilliant indie titles to get lost in the noise.

    By launching the demo, the team behind Sime Returns is making a brilliant tactical move:

    • Beat the Rush: Players can dive in, test the mechanics, and fall in love with the game before their Steam libraries get overwhelmed.
    • Community Feedback: An early demo gives the devs a crucial window to gather player feedback, squash sudden bugs, and optimise performance before the massive Next Fest crowd arrives.
    • Building the Hype: Word-of-mouth is an indie game’s best friend. Expect your social feeds to be flooded with clips of Sime Returns speedruns and initial reactions over the next few days.

    What to Expect in the Demo

    While it is a slice of the final product, the dev team hasn’t skimped on the content. The public demo offers a substantial chunk of gameplay designed to showcase the core loop, introduce you to the main characters, and give you a taste of the game’s atmosphere.

    TechMash Tip: Keep an eye out for hidden secrets and easter eggs. Indie devs love rewarding thorough players, and Sime Returns seems like exactly the kind of game that hides goodies in the corners of the map!

    Get Ready for Steam Next Fest

    The Sime Returns demo is just the opening act for what promises to be a massive week for PC gaming. Make sure your drivers are updated, your controller is charged, and your wishlist is ready to expand.

    Head over to Steam, search for Sime Returns, and download the demo today to see if the hype is real. Don’t forget to leave your feedback for the developers—your input could help shape the final version of the game!

    Have you played the demo yet? Let us know your thoughts, theories, and favourite moments in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #GamingNews #SimeReturns #SteamNextFest #IndieGames #PCGaming

  • The King of Platforms Returns: Rayman Legends Retold Lands This October!

    The King of Platforms Returns: Rayman Legends Retold Lands This October!

    Get your running shoes on and perfect your wind-up punches, because a gaming icon is making a massive comeback. Ubisoft has officially announced that Rayman Legends Retold is set to launch on October 1!

    Whether you’re a long-time fan who remembers saving Teensies on the original hardware, or a newcomer ready to experience one of the greatest platformers of all time with a fresh coat of paint, your autumn gaming schedule just got a whole lot brighter.

    Where Can You Play It? (Spoiler: Everywhere)

    Ubisoft is making sure absolutely no one gets left out of the glade. On October 1, Rayman Legends Retold will be dropping across an incredibly wide array of platforms, including next-gen hardware and cloud streaming services:

    • Consoles: PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, and the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2™.
    • PC Stores: Ubisoft Connect, Steam, and the Epic Games Store.
    • Subscription & Cloud: Available day one on Ubisoft+, as well as GeForce Now and Blacknut.

    Whether you want to play natively on a powerful rig, on the go with Nintendo’s next-gen handheld, or stream it directly to your TV via the cloud, Ubisoft has you covered.

    Why We’re Hyped for the “Retold” Treatment

    While Rayman Legends was already a masterclass in rhythm, level design, and gorgeous 2D art, the Retold edition promises to elevate the experience for modern hardware.

    We’re expecting buttery-smooth framerates, crisp modern resolutions, and hopefully some brilliant modern quality-of-life updates to those notoriously chaotic musical stages (looking at you, Castle Rock). Plus, seeing how the game utilises the capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2™ is going to be a major highlight for handheld fans.

    Mark your calendars: October 1 is the day the glade wakes up.

    Are you ready to jump back into the musical madness? Let us know in the comments which platform you’ll be picking this up on!

    Find out more here

    #GamingNews #RaymanLegendsRetold #Ubisoft #NintendoSwitch2 #Platformer

  • Tandem Drifting is Here: JDM: Japanese Drift Master Multiplayer Launches This June!

    Tandem Drifting is Here: JDM: Japanese Drift Master Multiplayer Launches This June!

    Drift fans, warm up your engines and get your tyres ready. After a series of highly successful Steam playtests, developer Gaming Factory has officially announced that the highly anticipated multiplayer mode for JDM: Japanese Drift Master is almost ready for prime time.

    If you’ve been dying to tear up the scenic, winding roads of Guntama with your friends, you won’t have to wait much longer.

    Lock In the Date: When Does It Drop?

    The multiplayer component is officially scheduled to deploy on June 11, 2026.

    The rollout will happen in phases, starting with PC players first:

    • June 11: PC via Steam
    • Following Weeks: Epic Games Store and GOG
    • Q3 2026: PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S

    What to Expect on Day One

    The initial launch will drop players right into an open-world sandbox designed for community and car culture. You’ll be able to host or join 8-player lobbies—with options for both public matchmaking and private, invite-only rooms.

    At launch, it’s all about the ultimate car meet experience. You can cruise the open world, show off your builds, and practice your tandem drifts. While dedicated competitive racing modes are still in development for future updates, the foundation is all about community connection.

    Developer Insight: The recent Steam playtests proved incredibly stable. The systems didn’t crash, and community feedback has directly shaped several quality-of-life features being rushed into development for the public launch.

    Community-Driven Features in the Works

    Gaming Factory is actively working to implement a handful of highly requested features based on player feedback from the Steam tests. These include:

    • Ghost Mode: A toggleable setting for private rooms that disables car collisions—perfect for practising close-quarter tandem drifting without ruining your friend’s paint job.
    • In-Session Customisation: The ability to visit the tuning and paint shops without having to back out of your multiplayer session.
    • Better Communication: Integrated voice chat, colour-coded player indicators, text chat, and a map-marking system to make meeting up on mountainous roads seamless.

    But Wait, There’s More…

    The multiplayer update is just the tip of the iceberg for June. On June 25, the game will receive its second major DLC, The American Classics ($5.99 / £4.99 approx.), introducing six iconic, muscle-bound American cars to the roster. Even better? Alongside the paid DLC, Gaming Factory is dropping a selection of new JDM cars completely free for all game owners.

    It looks like June is officially JDM month. Get your rigs ready, because the mountain passes are about to get a lot more crowded.

    Find out more here

    #JDM #JapaneseDriftMaster #GamingNews #MultiplayerUpdate #PCGaming

  • From the Shadows to 1.0: Co-Op Horror Hit ‘Storebound’ Fully Launches This July

    From the Shadows to 1.0: Co-Op Horror Hit ‘Storebound’ Fully Launches This July

    After eight months of terrifying players, gathering feedback, and dodging monsters in the dark, the wait is almost over. Independent developer Embers has officially announced that their hit community-driven, co-op puzzle horror title, Storebound, will graduate from Steam Early Access and launch into its highly anticipated Version 1.0 on July 16, 2026.

    If you thought the retail shifts were bad before, brace yourselves—the full launch is about to make clocking in a whole lot deadlier.

    A Community-Driven Nightmare

    Since its initial Early Access debut, Storebound has carved out a unique, terrifying niche in the co-op horror space. It turns the mundane anxiety of working a retail shift into a high-stakes, puzzle-solving survival nightmare.

    What has made the game truly special, however, is how Embers handled its development. Instead of retreating into a bunker, the solo developer worked hand-in-hand with the community. Over the last eight months, player feedback has directly shaped:

    • Smarter, more aggressive AI that adapts to your team’s communication.
    • Polished puzzle mechanics that require actual coordination (and inevitably lead to screaming at your friends).
    • Quality-of-life updates that balanced the atmospheric dread with smooth, satisfying gameplay.

    “The community has been the heartbeat of this game,” Embers shared in the announcement. “Without the thousands of players who braved the early builds, reported bugs, and shared their genuine scares, Storebound wouldn’t be the polished nightmare it is today. Version 1.0 is as much theirs as it is mine.”

    What to Expect in Version 1.0

    While Embers is keeping some secrets locked in the backroom until launch day, players can expect a massive influx of content when the clock strikes 1.0. The full release is set to bring:

    • New Levels & Environments: Explore areas of the store that were previously barricaded, each with its own twisted lore and layout.
    • Expanded Puzzle Logic: Fresh, randomised puzzles to keep even the most seasoned Early Access veterans on their toes.
    • The Ultimate Finale: A definitive conclusion to the eerie narrative underlying the store’s haunted existence.
    • More Monsters: New entities with unique hunting mechanics designed to divide and conquer your squad.

    Grab Your Squad and Prep Your Flashlights

    Whether you’ve been pulling shifts since day one or you’ve been waiting for the full package before diving in, July 16, 2026, is the day to mark on your calendar.

    Storebound proves that indie horror is at its best when developers listen to the people playing in the dark. Gather your bravest friends (or the ones who scream the loudest) and get ready for the ultimate shift.

    Storebound 1.0 launches July 16, 2026. Are you ready to clock in?

    Find out more here

    #HorrorGames #IndieDev #Storebound #CoOpGaming #GamingNews

  • Clear the Skies: ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE Officially Locks in October 2026 Release Date

    Clear the Skies: ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE Officially Locks in October 2026 Release Date

    Virtual pilots, prepare for takeoff. Bandai Namco Entertainment Europe has officially dropped the launch details for ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE™, and the franchise’s highly anticipated return to the skies is closer than you think.

    Whether you are a seasoned Strangereal veteran or a newcomer looking to pull off high-G turns, here is everything you need to know about the upcoming release date, pre-order perks, and the franchise’s first-ever Premium Ace Pass.

    The Launch Window: When Can You Fly?

    Mark your calendars and ready your flight suits. Bandai Namco has confirmed that the global release schedule will roll out in waves depending on how eager you are to get into the cockpit:

    • Early Access: 29 September 2026 (Available for Digital Deluxe Edition holders)
    • Official Global Launch: 2 October 2026

    The game will be taking flight on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.

    Welcome to Joker Flight: What We Know So Far

    Developed by Project Aces and Bandai Namco Aces, ACE COMBAT 8: WINGS OF THEVE plunges players back into the beloved fictional universe of Strangereal. The campaign sets a cinematic, high-stakes stage: your homeland’s navy is shattered, the Federation of Central Usea is occupied following an invasion by the Republic of Sotoa, and you must step into the shoes of an elite pilot carrying the legendary, morale-boosting callsign “Wings of Theve.”

    You won’t be flying solo. Throughout the campaign, you’ll be leading Joker Flight, a tight-knit squadron featuring:

    • Ellington “Professor” Baxter (No. 2, Major)
    • Tasha Seversky (No. 3)
    • William “Noise” Coster (No. 4, Captain)

    Built on Unreal Engine 5 and utilising advanced cloud technology, the game promises photorealistic, multi-layered cloudscapes, intense giant weapon boss battles, and a massive online multiplayer mode featuring custom avatars and interactive air base lobbies.

    Pre-Order Bonuses: Nostalgia Takes Flight

    Bandai Namco is rewarding players who secure their copy early with a massive nod to franchise history. All digital pre-orders will include:

    • Playable Aircraft: The iconic F-14A.
    • A Blast From the Past: A digital port of the 2006 fan-favourite classic, ACE COMBAT ZERO: THE Belkan War (internet connection required to download).

    Introducing the Premium Ace Pass

    In a franchise first, Bandai Namco is introducing the Premium Ace Pass system to support the game’s expansive live-service elements and online multiplayer infrastructure.

    While full seasonal details are still under wraps, the pass is designed to give pilots a steady stream of content, custom cosmetics, and aircraft variations to take into the brand-new cross-platform multiplayer modes.

    Deluxe Edition Perk: Players who pick up the Digital Deluxe Edition won’t just get the 3-day early access on 29 September; it also comes bundled with a PREMIUM ACE PASS PLUS Voucher and an exclusive customizable cosmetic set to make your aircraft stand out in the online lobbies from day one.

    Are you opting for early access or waiting for the general launch? Let us know which fighter jet you’ll be unlocking first!

    Find out more here

    #AceCombat8 #WingsOfTheve #BandaiNamco #GamingNews #FlightSim

  • Porsche, Plot Twists, and Playable S-Ranks: Neverness to Everness Drops Massive V1.1 ‘Dreamwalk Corridor’ Update

    Porsche, Plot Twists, and Playable S-Ranks: Neverness to Everness Drops Massive V1.1 ‘Dreamwalk Corridor’ Update

    If you thought Hotta Studio’s upcoming urban supernatural RPG couldn’t get any sleeker, think again. The hype train for Neverness to Everness (NTE) just hit nitro.

    The highly anticipated title has officially rolled out its Version 1.1 update, titled “Dreamwalk Corridor,” and it is packed to the brim with new story content, a stunning new character, and a real-world automotive crossover that no one saw coming.

    Here is everything you need to know about NTE’s massive new update.

    Unravelling the ‘Dreamwalk Corridor’

    The core of the V1.1 update lies in its narrative expansion. Players can finally dive into the “Dreamwalk Corridor” main story update, which promises to peel back more layers of the game’s supernatural, anomaly-filled metropolis. Expect mind-bending anomalies, high-stakes cinematic sequences, and a deeper look into the mysteries plaguing Hesperia.

    Enter Lacrimosa: The New S-Rank Powerhouse

    What is a major gacha update without a shiny new character to pull for? Version 1.1 marks the debut of Lacrimosa, a brand-new S-rank character joining the roster. Boasting a striking design and an arsenal that perfectly fits the game’s supernatural-meets-streetwear aesthetic, Lacrimosa is bound to be a must-have for players looking to min-max their team compositions early on.

    The Porsche Collaboration: Ride in Style

    In a move that bridges supernatural gaming with luxury reality, NTE has launched its much-anticipated Porsche Collab campaign.

    While NTE has always turned heads with its open-world driving mechanics and customizable sports cars, this official partnership takes things to a whole new level. Players can look forward to driving iconic, meticulously detailed Porsche vehicles through the neon-lit streets of the city. Who knew exorcising anomalies could look this sophisticated?

    Events, Freebies, and Login Bonuses

    Hotta Studio isn’t letting the community go empty-handed. To celebrate the launch of “Dreamwalk Corridor,” a wave of limited-time events is now live. By simply logging into the game, players can score generous login bonuses, including premium currency and upgrade materials to help jumpstart their progression and pull for Lacrimosa.

    TechMash Verdict: Version 1.1 proves that Neverness to Everness isn’t just trying to compete in the urban anime RPG space—it’s trying to lap the competition. With a blend of high-octane driving, supernatural mystery, and premium crossovers, NTE is cementing itself as a must-watch title.

    Find out more here

    #NevernessToEverness #NTE11 #DreamwalkCorridor #Lacrimosa #NTEuPorsche

  • Get Ready to Stack, Hack, and Lose Your Mind: Hack ’n’ Stack Hits Steam Next Fest This June!

    Get Ready to Stack, Hack, and Lose Your Mind: Hack ’n’ Stack Hits Steam Next Fest This June!

    If you’ve been looking for the next chaotic party game to test the absolute limits of your friendships, look no further. The folks over at indie studio Dodo Tako have officially announced that their upcoming multiplayer frenzy, Hack ’n’ Stack, is sliding into Steam Next Fest from June 15 to 22, 2026—and they’re bringing a massive free demo along for the ride.

    Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of couch co-op disasters or just looking for something fresh to scream at your screen with, this demo is packing some serious heat.

    What’s on the Menu?

    Unlike some bite-sized previews that leave you hanging after five minutes, Dodo Tako is serving up a full meal. Here is exactly what you can expect when you download the demo:

    • Four Playable Levels: Jump straight into the action with four distinct, beautifully chaotic stages designed to test your coordination (and your patience).
    • A Complete Tutorial: Because let’s face it, you’ll need to learn the ropes before you start accidentally throwing your teammates off the map.
    • Online & Local Co-Op: Want to yell at your friends on the couch? Perfect. Want to yell at them from across the globe? You got it.
    • Over an Hour of Content: This isn’t just a quick teaser—there is easily over 60 minutes of gameplay here to sink your teeth into.

    Why You Should Care

    Steam Next Fest is always a goldmine for hidden gems, but Hack ’n’ Stack is shaping up to be a standout crowd-pleaser for the summer. It combines the fast-paced, high-stakes communication of games like Overcooked! with its own unique physics-based puzzle mechanics. It’s colourful, it’s frantic, and it’s the exact kind of digital mayhem TechMash readers live for.

    Mark your calendars for June 15, rally your crew, and get ready to stack your way to victory (or utter failure).

    The Details:

    • Event: Steam Next Fest
    • Dates: June 15 – June 22, 2026
    • Platform: PC (Steam)
    • Price: Free Demo

    Are you ready to ruin some friendships this June? Let us know in the comments if you’ll be downloading the Hack ’n’ Stack demo!

    Find out more here

    #HackNStack #SteamNextFest #IndieGames #PartyGames #DemoGame