TECHMASH

Category: Games

  • The “Forgotten Cousin” of Metal Slug Returns: Biomechanical Toy Blasts Onto Modern Consoles!

    The “Forgotten Cousin” of Metal Slug Returns: Biomechanical Toy Blasts Onto Modern Consoles!

    If you miss the golden age of 90s arcades—when pixel art reigned supreme, cabinet audio blasted at maximum volume, and action heroes exuded pure, unfiltered attitude—then we have some incredible news for you.

    QUByte Interactive, in an exciting partnership with retro pioneers Bleem! (and Piko Interactive), has officially announced that they are rescuing a legendary, long-lost 1995 run-and-gun arcade classic from dead hardware and bringing it straight to modern platforms.

    Get ready to reload your weapons, because Biomechanical Toy (QUByte Classics) is making its triumphant return on July 16, 2026!

    The Rare Cult Gem Escapes the 90s

    Originally developed by Zeus Software and released by the Spanish arcade giant Gaelco in 1995, Biomechanical Toy hit arcades exactly one year before Metal Slug reshaped the genre forever. Because of that timing, it became a highly prized, rare cult gem rather than a global household name. But for those in the know, its explosive rhythm, ultra-expressive pixel art, and unique rescue mechanics made it an absolute masterpiece.

    Now, thanks to the QUByte Emulation Engine, this definitive version perfectly preserves that original arcade adrenaline while giving it a major 21st-century upgrade.

    The Story: You play as Inguz, a tough-as-nails action hero sporting serious 90s ponytail-and-sunglasses energy. Your mission? Blast through 6 surreal, vibrant worlds to recover a stolen Magic Pendulum from the criminal mastermind, Scrubby, and stop his relentless biomechanical army of toys gone rogue.

    Arcade Action with Modern Enhancements

    While the core, punishingly detailed gameplay remains intact, QUByte and Bleem! are packing this release with crucial quality-of-life features that today’s gamers expect:

    • Rewind Feature: Made a fatal mistake? Instantly rewind time to correct your steps.
    • Save States: No need to burn through virtual quarters. Save and load your progress anywhere.
    • Authentic CRT Screen Filters: Relive the look and feel of sitting right in front of a vintage arcade cabinet.
    • The Digital Museum: Dive into an exclusive in-game Gallery featuring original development concept art and jam out to the retro soundtrack via the built-in Jukebox.

    Launch Details

    Mark your calendars! Biomechanical Toy officially launches on July 16, 2026.

    • Platforms: PC (Steam, Epic Games Store), Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch.
    • Price: $9.99 USD (with regional pricing applied across UK/EU storefronts).
    • Launch Deal: Keep your eyes peeled for a 15% discount active during the first 7 days post-release.

    Whether you’re a die-hard retro enthusiast or a fan of frantic side-scrollers looking for your next challenge, this is one piece of gaming history you won’t want to miss. Head over to your platform’s storefront and add it to your wishlist today!

    Find out more here

    #BiomechanicalToy #RetroGaming #QUByteClassics #Bleem #ArcadeGames #RunAndGun #MetalSlugFans #90sGaming #GamingNews #TechMash

  • Extinction-Level Event? Nah, We’ve Got Fences: Very Safe Dino Park is Coming to Steam!

    Extinction-Level Event? Nah, We’ve Got Fences: Very Safe Dino Park is Coming to Steam!

    We’ve all been there. You build a beautiful, sprawling theme park, invite thousands of unsuspecting tourists inside, and then—boom—a thunderstorm hits, the power goes down, and suddenly your star attraction is playing catch with a tour jeep.

    Well, indie developer Panic Stations is here to assure you that absolutely none of that will happen in their upcoming title, Very Safe Dino Park, officially coming soon to Steam!

    Check out the chaotic (but totally controlled, we promise) teaser below:

    What is Very Safe Dino Park?

    At its core, Very Safe Dino Park is a management simulation game with a healthy dose of dark humour and high-stakes damage control. You are tasked with building, operating, and expanding a prehistoric safari.

    The twist? The title might be a tad bit sarcastic.

    While the marketing brochure promises a tranquil day out for the whole family, the gameplay looks set to challenge players with keeping prehistoric predators contained, guests alive, and corporate lawyers firmly at bay. You’ll need to balance your budget between high-voltage fencing and guest amenities, all while praying your Velociraptors don’t figure out how to use door handles.

    Key Features to Expect:

    • Enclosure Management: Build custom habitats for a variety of prehistoric beasts. Just remember: the bigger the teeth, the thicker the walls need to be.
    • Guest Satisfaction vs. Survival: Keep your visitors fed, entertained, and—most importantly—uneaten. Happy guests mean bigger budgets!
    • Crisis Mitigation: When things go wrong (and they will), you’ll need to deploy security teams, patch up breaches, and distract the carnivores before the press catches wind of it.
    • Tech & Research: Unlock new DNA strains to breed even bigger attractions, and upgrade your security tech to keep up with your increasingly clever assets.

    Why We’re Excited

    Management sims are at their best when everything is on the brink of collapse, and Panic Stations seems to have captured that frantic, joyful chaos perfectly. It’s got the strategic depth of classic park builders mixed with a satirical edge that feels incredibly fresh.

    Will your park live up to its name, or will it become a buffet? There’s only one way to find out.

    Very Safe Dino Park doesn’t have a concrete release date just yet, but it is officially listed on Steam. Head over to the store page now to hit that Wishlist button and stay updated on the upcoming beta phases!

    What’s the first dinosaur you’re going to breed? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #VerySafeDinoPark #PanicStations #SteamGames #IndieDev #PCGaming #DinosaurGame #GamingNews #TechMash #TycoonGames #UpcomingReleases

  • Meat in the Third Dimension: Super Meat Boy 3D Physical Editions Splat Onto Next-Gen!

    Meat in the Third Dimension: Super Meat Boy 3D Physical Editions Splat Onto Next-Gen!

    Get ready to stretch your reflexes and ruin your thumbs all over again—but this time, with depth perception.

    Meridiem has officially announced that Super Meat Boy 3D is breaking out of the digital storefronts and landing on retail shelves with two gorgeous physical editions. Developed by the sadistic geniuses at Sluggerfly and Team Meat, and digitally published by Headup, this new entry takes the iconic, punishingly difficult platformer we all know and love and thrusts it into a whole new dimension.

    Yes, you read that right: Meat Boy is officially 3D.

    The Ultimate Challenge, Now in 3D

    If you thought dodging giant sawblades in 2D was tough, wait until you have to track them along a Z-axis. Super Meat Boy 3D retains the split-second precision, instant respawns, and dark humour that made the original a legendary indie hit, but reengineers the gameplay for a fully 3-dimensional world. It’s fresh, it’s terrifying, and it’s bound to make you sweat.

    For the collectors and physical media enthusiasts out there, you won’t just have to settle for a digital download. You can now own a piece of indie history for the Nintendo Switch 2 and PlayStation 5.

    Choose Your Edition

    Meridiem is dropping two distinct physical flavours for this release:

    1. The Standard Edition

    Perfect for players who want the classic, no-nonsense physical copy to add to their shelf. It includes the full game on disc or cartridge, wrapped in stunning box art that looks great in any collection.

    2. The Special/Collector’s Edition

    For the hardcore Meat Boy die-hards, this edition comes packed with exclusive physical goodies. While exact regional contents can vary, expect premium packaging and collectable extras that celebrate the gory, glorious legacy of Team Meat’s toughest hero.

    Why You Need This on Your Shelf

    • Next-Gen Ready: Optimised to look crisp and run buttery-smooth on PS5 and Nintendo Switch 2.
    • A New Perspective: Experience classic, high-stakes platforming redesigned for a 3D space.
    • Physical Preservation: Digital stores come and go, but a physical box on your shelf is forever.

    Whether you’re a veteran who conquered the Cotton Alley or a newcomer ready to die a thousand deaths, Super Meat Boy 3D in physical form is a must-have for the modern gaming library. Head to your favorite local retailer or online store to grab your copy before they sell out!

    Are you ready to tackle the third dimension, or is your controller already sweating? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #SuperMeatBoy3D #NintendoSwitch2 #PS5 #PhysicalGames #IndieGames #GamingNews #TeamMeat #MeridiemGames #TechMash

  • Tactical Realism Reborn: ‘GROUND BRANCH’ Prepares for Full 1.0 Launch on Steam This July

    Tactical Realism Reborn: ‘GROUND BRANCH’ Prepares for Full 1.0 Launch on Steam This July

    Tactical shooter fans, check your corners and prep your loadouts. GROUND BRANCH, the uncompromising tactical first-person shooter developed in collaboration with BlackFoot Studios and published by MicroProse, is officially ready to leave Steam Early Access.

    Mark your calendars for July 16, 2026, when Version 1.0 officially deploys.

    Led by a development team featuring one of the original minds behind the golden era of Rainbow Six and Ghost Recon, GROUND BRANCH has spent years meticulously forging a reputation for deliberate, raw, and highly customizable gameplay. Version 1.0 is set to be the game’s most definitive milestone yet, moving past its long-standing “V1036” label to deliver an entirely rebuilt framework.

    Here is what you need to know about the major tactical upgrades coming on launch day.

    The Return of Operations: A New Narrative Prologue

    For solo players and co-op squads looking for structured immersion, Version 1.0 introduces Operations—the game’s official campaign framework.

    The full launch kicks things off with an all-new Prologue set deep in the rugged mountains of Northwest Pakistan.

    • Story-Driven Depth: The Prologue features two narrative-heavy introductory missions that set the stage for the broader global conflict unfolding later in the campaign.
    • Persistent Progression: Expect complete tactical briefings, full voice-over narration, and tracking that makes every deployment feel connected to a larger operational goal.

    Overhauled AI and Advanced Mission Types

    If you’ve played earlier builds, you know the AI could occasionally be unpredictable. BlackFoot Studios has spent months migrating behaviour trees directly from Blueprint into C++ code, unlocking massive performance gains and significantly smarter enemies.

    • High-IQ Targeting: Enemy AI now factors in your visible profile. If you’re behind cover with only your head showing, they will adapt and target your head, rather than losing track. Higher-skilled enemies will instinctively target your chest.
    • Morale and Suppression: Missing a shot now carries real tactical consequences. Unaware enemies will react dynamically to near-misses by suppressing and fleeing to cover. Witnessing a teammate fall will actively tank enemy morale, altering their decision trees in real time.
    • New Environment & Mission: Players will deploy to Outpost, a stark new map featuring an old mountain fort overlooking the volatile Afghan border. This setting pairs perfectly with the newly added Extraction mission type, introducing complex hostage rescue scenarios and smarter captor behaviours.

    Fluid Locomotion and Next-Gen Physics

    The physical feel of moving through tight spaces has been completely modernised. Version 1.0 rolls out an entirely overhauled player locomotion system using fresh motion capture data. Weapon transitions, stance changes (including a heavily refined prone state), and general traversal feel dramatically smoother.

    Techmash Verdict: By modernising the underlying infrastructure while keeping weapon customization and squad communication hyper-realistic, BlackFoot Studios isn’t chasing modern arcade trends. They are firmly cementing GROUND BRANCH as the true spiritual successor to old-school tactical gaming.

    GROUND BRANCH Version 1.0 drops on Steam on July 16, 2026. If you want a pure shooter that rewards patience, planning, and precise communication, this is one milestone you cannot afford to miss.

    Are you ready to take your squad into Northwest Pakistan, or are you just eager to test out the new breaching mechanics? Let us know your tactical loadout strategies in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #GroundBranch #BlackFootStudios #MicroProse #TacticalShooter #PCGaming #SteamGames #MilSim #GamingNews #IndieDev #Techmash #FPSRealism

  • NetEase Announces Massive $50,000 ‘Raid for Glory’ Tournament for Once Human: RaidZone

    NetEase Announces Massive $50,000 ‘Raid for Glory’ Tournament for Once Human: RaidZone

    NetEase Games has just dropped a massive announcement for fans of supernatural survival and high-stakes PvP. Once Human: RaidZone, the intense, fast-paced PvP spin-off of the hit open-world survival game Once Human, is gearing up for its biggest competitive milestone yet: the “Raid for Glory” Tournament.

    Running from July 10 to July 12 (PT), this gruelling three-day online event will bring together over 70 of the survival genre’s top creators and elite streamers to battle for a massive $50,000 prize pool.

    High Stakes and Non-Stop Action

    Led by survival gaming icon hJune, the tournament will feature up to 100 creators fighting in pairs. Shifting away from standard survival mechanics, RaidZone zeroes in on no-holds-barred, high-octane tactical combat. This tournament format is designed to heavily reward aggressive play, map control, and raw skill:

    • The Leaderboard Prize Pool ($40,000): Points are earned strictly based on player eliminations. The grand champions will walk away with a cool $8,500.
    • Airdrop Cash Bonuses ($10,000): Extra cash incentives to keep the matches chaotic and fast-paced.

    Because RaidZone enforces a completely fair PvP environment—where no external blueprints or gear can be carried over—victory will rely entirely on real-time planning, base defence, and combat execution.

    Watch Live and Claim Twitch Drops

    If you want to catch the chaos live, the tournament will be broadcast daily from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM PT on Twitch.

    Even better? Viewers can get in on the action too. By linking your Twitch account to your Once Human game account, you can unlock exclusive Twitch Drops, including unique formulas and the coveted Flawless Death Helm just for tuning in.

    Are you ready to see who conquers Nalcott and claims the ultimate glory? Mark your calendars for July 10!

    Find out more here

    #OnceHuman #RaidZone #RaidForGlory #NetEaseGames #GamingNews #PvP #SurvivalGames #Esports

  • NARAKA: BLADEPOINT “GIVE ME FIVE” Update Takes the Battle Underwater for 5th Anniversary

    NARAKA: BLADEPOINT “GIVE ME FIVE” Update Takes the Battle Underwater for 5th Anniversary

    NetEase Games and 24 Entertainment are officially giving a massive high-five to their global community. To celebrate five years of high-octane martial arts action, the developers recently hosted a special anniversary livestream revealing their biggest, boldest expansion yet.

    Titled the “GIVE ME FIVE” celebration, this massive content update is scheduled to drop on July 2, bringing game-changing mechanics, a brand-new hero, and a tidal wave of free player rewards.

    Dive Into the Deep: The First-Ever Amphibious Map

    The absolute crown jewel of the fifth-anniversary update is Wanchu, the first-ever amphibious map in NARAKA: BLADEPOINT history.

    For the first time, players aren’t just fighting on land or grappling across rooftops—they are taking the battle beneath the waves. The update introduces a dedicated Submerged Melee Combat system, allowing players to:

    • Glide across water surfaces without losing momentum.
    • Dodge, ascend, and descend through a fully three-dimensional underwater space.
    • Conjure tactical whirlpools and unleash devastating tide-powered finishers.

    The Risk: Diving isn’t without its dangers. A new oxygen system ties directly into your stamina. If you mismanage your breath and run out of stamina underwater, you will start taking direct health damage.

    New Hero, Transforming Weapon, and Extraction Mode

    The “GIVE ME FIVE” update isn’t just changing where you fight; it’s changing how you fight.

    Ye Xiu & The Kaleidoscope Parasol

    Joining the roster is Ye Xiu, a brand-new hero engineered for aggressive, fast-paced counter-play and direct confrontation. He arrives alongside the Kaleidoscope Parasol, the game’s very first multi-form transforming weapon. Players can fluidly switch the parasol between offensive and defensive forms mid-combo, adding a mind-bending layer of strategy to close-quarters duels.

    Stormchant Extraction Map

    If Battle Royale isn’t your only vice, the update also introduces Stormchant, a brand-new extraction-style PvE map. Steeped in the lore of the Han Dynasty’s founding emperor, players will venture into treacherous underground caverns, navigate the Baidi Palace, take on the mythical White Snake boss, and attempt a high-stakes imperial rescue.

    Massive “GIVE ME FIVE” Free Rewards

    To thank the community for five years of undying loyalty, NetEase is packing the July 2 update with an unprecedented haul of free cosmetics and progression boosts. By just logging in and participating, players can claim:

    • 15 exclusive free cosmetics (including soccer-themed outfits and ultimate accessories).
    • The Extreme Temulch outfit.
    • Premium skins and a unique look for the new Kaleidoscope Parasol.
    • Permanent treasure chests and Tae Craftsman Orbs.

    A Glimpse into Naraka’s Future

    The livestream wrapped up with a major roadmap teaser. For the first time in the game’s history, 24 Entertainment will release two heroes within a single season, with the next hero, Nangong, slated to arrive later this September. Furthermore, players can look forward to upcoming real-world museum crossovers, partnerships with Antarctic research teams, and major anime franchise collaborations.

    Whether you are a seasoned parry-master or a lapsed player looking for a reason to dive back in, NARAKA: BLADEPOINT is giving you five fantastic reasons to return to the Morus Isle mythos this July.

    Are you ready to test your blade skills underwater? Let us know your thoughts on the new transforming weapon in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #NarakaBladepoint #GiveMeFive #NetEaseGames #24Entertainment #GamingNews #WanchuMap #YeXiu #PCGaming #Xbox #PlayStation #BattleRoyale #TechMash

  • Batters Up! ‘Baito Fight!!: Part-time Devil Hunter’ Steps Up to the Plate This August

    Batters Up! ‘Baito Fight!!: Part-time Devil Hunter’ Steps Up to the Plate This August

    Indie JRPG fans, grab your favourite bat and get your resumes ready. Osaka-based indie developer KINGOFSHIBUYA Ltd. is bringing their highly anticipated, delightfully oddball life simulator, Baito Fight!!: Part-time Devil Hunter, to PC via Steam on August 11, 2026.

    If you’ve ever felt like balancing rent, adult responsibilities, and a literal horde of aggressive demons was too much to handle, this game is here to show you that a good swing can solve just about anything.

    The Story: Retiring to a Neighbourhood From Hell

    In Baito Fight!!, players step into the worn cleats of Anansi, a retired ex-baseball player who just wants a quiet life. He settles into a modest new apartment building deep in the heart of Osaka’s bustling Naniwa Ward, expecting peaceful mornings and a distinct lack of drama.

    Instead, he finds himself in the ultimate hustle. His new neighbourhood is completely infested with bizarre, wacky devils determined to turn his retirement into a living hell. With overdue rent piling up and the constant threat of eviction loitering at his doorstep, Anansi has to do what any sensible athlete would do: take a part-time job (baito) as a freelance devil hunter using his lethal baseball skills.

    Gameplay: Swing for the Fences (and for Survival)

    Baito Fight!! Bridges the gap between classic, turn-based JRPG combat and a high-stakes rhythm or timing game.

    • Turn-Based Slugfests: Take on hordes of invading demons using tactical pitches and heavy strikes.
    • Real-Time Defensive Batting: When the devils fight back, the game switches to a precise, real-time batting mechanic. Time your swing perfectly to score a massive counter-strike strikeout, but be careful—swing and miss, and Anansi’s HP takes a major hit.
    • The Konbini Power-Up: Earn money from your devil-hunting shifts and make runs to the local Japanese convenience store (konbini). Instead of just buying snacks, you’ll purchase new abilities and supernatural powers to stem the tide of the infestation.

    A Living, Breathing World Inspired by the Classics

    Visually, Baito Fight!! is a gorgeous tribute to the charming, lo-fi pixel art styles of legendary titles like Earthbound, Undertale, and Yume Nikki.

    But what truly sets it apart is its persistent, advancing world. Much like Animal Crossing, the game is structurally designed to be digested in bite-sized pieces every day. The in-game world advances forward in real time with you.

    As the days pass, the main plot moves forward, new side quests open up, and you’ll get the chance to befriend an eclectic, quirky roster of neighbours living around your building. Learning their stories and helping them out is your ticket to solving the ultimate mystery: Why are these devils invading Osaka, and how can Anansi finally get some peace and quiet?

    Oh, and yes—you can pet the cat.

    Mark Your Calendars

    Originally turning heads as an award-winning title for the Playdate handheld console, this expanded version brings crisp, enhanced mechanics and full PC optimisation to a wider audience.

    Baito Fight!!: Part-time Devil Hunter officially hits Steam on August 11, 2026, for a budget-friendly $8.99. Head over to Steam now to add it to your wishlist, and prepare to knock some demons out of the park!

    Find out more here

    #BaitoFight #PartTimeDevilHunter #KINGOFSHIBUYA #IndieGames #JRPG #SteamGames #PCGaming #LifeSim #GamingNews #EarthboundVibes

  • Stargazing and Storytelling: Nightscape Drops Captivating New Narrative Trailer

    Stargazing and Storytelling: Nightscape Drops Captivating New Narrative Trailer

    Independent developer Mezan Studios has released an enchanting new narrative trailer for their highly anticipated debut title, Nightscape. Ahead of its multiplatform launch later this year, the latest footage pivots away from pure gameplay to shine a spotlight on the game’s dialogue, lore, and overarching story progression.

    If you haven’t had this gorgeous project on your radar yet, Nightscape is an atmospheric 2.5D puzzle-adventure heavily inspired by ancient Arabian astronomy and mythology.

    Check out the details from the latest narrative trailer below.

    Restoring the Fallen Constellations

    The new trailer gives players a deeper look into the emotional driving force behind the journey. You play as Layla, a young stargazer who has inherited her father’s deep passion for the cosmos.

    The world is plunged into darkness following a catastrophic event known as the Starfall, which causes the brilliant Arabic constellations to plummet from the heavens. With the world forgetting the names of the stars and a consuming darkness taking over the land, Layla’s father mysteriously vanishes during the chaos.

    It is up to Layla—alongside an incredibly charming Goat Kid companion (who happens to have a celestial secret of his own)—to venture across a fractured world, restore the stars to their rightful place, and save her father.

    Wielding Stellar Powers

    While the trailer focuses on narrative beats, it hints at how Layla’s knowledge of the cosmos shapes the gameplay. Using a magical astrolabe, players will wield unique constellation powers to manipulate the elements. You will be able to:

    • Summon powerful gusts of wind to shift heavy objects.
    • Call down rain to alter environments and solve intricate puzzles.
    • Unleash lightning to activate ancient mechanisms and devices.

    A Fresh Cultural Voice in Gaming

    Based in Doha, Qatar, Mezan Studios aims to be a prominent voice for aspiring game developers from the MENA region. Nightscape highlights a rich tapestry of Arabian folklore and astronomy—themes that are criminally underrepresented in modern gaming. Between its breathtaking night-time environments, light elemental combat, and emotional narrative focus, it’s shaping up to be a standout indie release for the year.

    Release Platforms

    Nightscape is scheduled to release later this year on PC (via Steam), PlayStation, and Xbox.

    What do you think of Nightscape’s unique astronomical theme? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #Nightscape #MezanStudios #IndieGames #GamingNews #ArabianAstronomy #PS5 #XboxSeriesX #Steam #PCGaming #CozyGaming #PuzzlePlatformer

  • Master the Monochrome: ‘Helix: Descent N Ascent’ Brings Mind-Bending Puzzles to Steam and Switch This July

    Master the Monochrome: ‘Helix: Descent N Ascent’ Brings Mind-Bending Puzzles to Steam and Switch This July

    Indie game aficionados, clear your calendars. Belgian developer Badass Mongoose has officially locked in the launch date for its highly anticipated title, Helix: Descent N Ascent. Mark your calendars for 23 July 2026, when this strikingly beautiful, non-violent puzzle-adventure simultaneously hits PC via Steam and the Nintendo Switch.

    If you are a fan of rich atmospheres, unique mechanics, and artistic storytelling, this is definitely one to add to your wishlist.

    What is Helix: Descent N Ascent?

    In Helix: Descent N Ascent, you awaken in a dull, dark, and disembodied world. While isolation seems absolute at first, you quickly cross paths with a mysterious doppelganger—a being who looks exactly like you but always seems to operate at complete odds with your actions. Is he a friend, a foe, or a mirror to your own subconscious?

    To uncover the truth behind this twin entity and the ruins of a lost civilisation, players must navigate a barren landscape by unlocking and mastering an intricate power system.

    Key Features to Get Excited For:

    • The Mix-and-Match Puzzle System: The core of Helix relies on a clever mechanics loop. Players can discover and combine different embodied powers, giving them up to 25 distinctive ways to interact with their surroundings across three different tiers of complexity.
    • Striking Monochrome Aesthetics: Visually, the game is a love letter to vintage print media. It draws heavy inspiration from 1980s black-and-white indie comics, 1990s manga, and classic 1970s Franco-Belgian comic art.
    • A Masterclass Soundtrack: The dreamlike, serene, and occasionally eerie atmosphere is stitched together by an exceptional score from acclaimed composer Jim Guthrie (Superbrothers: Sword & Sworcery EP, Nobody Saves the World).
    • An Emotional, Peaceful Journey: Stripping away typical video game violence, Helix chooses to challenge your brain and soul instead. It uses its environment to weave a quiet narrative about identity, relationships, and deep solitude.

    The Road to a Polished Launch

    The team at Badass Mongoose initially eyed an earlier window, but following a massively successful demo run during Steam Next Fest, the developers made the decision to take a few extra months to add more scale and polish. The delay ensured that both PC and Nintendo Switch players get the definitive, flawlessly optimised version on day one.

    Whether you want to play cosy in handheld mode on your Switch or dive into the stunning, hand-drawn details on your PC rig, the wait is almost over. Get ready to descend into the mysteries and ascend to the light next month!

    Launch Date: 23 July 2026

    Platforms: PC (Steam) & Nintendo Switch

    Developer/Publisher: Badass Mongoose

    Check out the latest trailer on their official channels and head over to Steam to wishlist Helix: Descent N Ascent today!

    Find out more here

    #IndieGames #GamingNews #HelixDescentNAscent #BadassMongoose #NintendoSwitch #SteamGames #PuzzleAdventure #JimGuthrie #MonochromeGaming #CozyGames #TechMash

  • Conquer the Gods: Assetto Corsa Rally Drops Massive Update 0.5 with Iconic Greece WRC Stages

    Conquer the Gods: Assetto Corsa Rally Drops Massive Update 0.5 with Iconic Greece WRC Stages

    Sim racing fans, start your engines and grab your steering wheels! 505 Games and Supernova Games Studios, in technical partnership with KUNOS Simulazioni, have officially dropped Update 0.5 for Assetto Corsa Rally. This is the early-access title’s most substantial update yet, and it is an absolute game-changer for virtual rally drivers.

    The headline feature? The simulator is taking us straight to the rugged landscapes of Greece, introducing two legendary, real-life special stages that have previously pushed the world’s best drivers to their limits in the World Rally Championship (WRC).

    Welcome to the “Rally of the Gods”

    Spanning 22 kilometres of meticulously laser-scanned terrain with over 500 meters of elevation changes, the new Greek location brings two distinct flavours of brutal gravel racing:

    • The Loutraki Special Stage: Starting on the outskirts of town and climbing into the hills of Aghii Theodori, this stage is a test of pure nerve. It features dusty surfaces, treacherous boulders waiting at the edges to ruin your suspension, and high-speed sections with wide turns that reward brave drifting.
    • The Elatia Special Stage: Connecting Elatia and Zeli. This route is wide, fast, and entirely unforgiving. Packed with deep ruts, exposed rocks, and sudden transitions from loose gravel to high-grip tarmac, it allows you to unleash every ounce of your car’s horsepower—if you have the precision to keep it on the road.

    Multiplayer Phase One Has Arrived!

    You no longer have to tackle the stages alone. Update 0.5 introduces the highly anticipated Phase One of Online Multiplayer.

    Players can now host and join fully customizable public or private lobbies for up to 16 drivers in single-stage events. You’ll have total control over the weather, car restrictions, and real-time live spectating. Plus, the developers are launching an official rotating event calendar featuring two standard weekly events and a premium weekend-only event to keep the community competition fierce.

    A Groundbreaking Physics Overhaul

    It wouldn’t be an Assetto Corsa title without a relentless pursuit of realism. Alongside the new content, KUNOS and Supernova have rolled out a deep mechanical rework of the game’s physics engine:

    • Gravel “Bulldozing” Effects: The engine now realistically simulates longitudinal and lateral bulldozing on soft surfaces. Your tyres will actually push loose gravel out of the way, creating ruts that dynamically change mechanical grip.
    • Advanced Tire & Camber Models: An upgraded tyre model introduces a revised peak slip angle formula and load sensitivity, greatly increasing the feedback and performance impact of your inside tyres.
    • Tactile Force Feedback: The update reintroduces experimental stick-slip and dig-dependent vibrations, translating the literal texture of the Greek dirt directly into your hands.

    Deal Alert: Steam Summer Sale

    If you haven’t jumped into the driver’s seat yet, there is no better time. To celebrate the update, Assetto Corsa Rally is currently available at 20% off RRP on Steam as part of the Steam Summer Sale running until July 9th.

    Dust off your rig, update your game, and we’ll see you on the dusty trails of Loutraki!

    Find out more here

    #AssettoCorsa #ACRally #SimRacing #WRC #RallyGreece #505Games #SupernovaGames #KunosSimulazioni #GamingNews #TechMash #SteamSummerSale

  • Dialling Into the Finale: Schrödinger’s Call Chapter 5 Trailer Teases an Emotional Conclusion

    Dialling Into the Finale: Schrödinger’s Call Chapter 5 Trailer Teases an Emotional Conclusion

    If you’ve been following the beautifully haunting journey of Schrödinger’s Call, you might want to grab a box of tissues. Independent publisher Shueisha Games and indie developer Acrobatic Chirimenjako have just dropped a brand-new trailer for Chapter 5, giving players a dramatic, bittersweet look at the narrative adventure’s upcoming emotional climax.

    Check out what’s in store for the finale below.

    The Beginning of the End

    For the uninitiated, Schrödinger’s Call is a unique, picture-book-style visual novel set in the final 21 nanoseconds before the moon crashes into Earth, ending all life. Players step into the shoes of Mary, a girl with amnesia who finds herself guided by a mysterious cat named Hamlet. Together, they act as the “World’s Last Confidant,” answering an old telephone to listen to the final regrets, unspoken words, and raw emotions of souls caught between life and death.

    The newly released Chapter 5 trailer promises to bring the central mysteries to a head. It teases the long-awaited truth behind Mary’s forgotten past, her strange connection to Hamlet, and the ultimate meaning behind the falling moon. It’s the beginning of the end for Mary’s journey, challenging players to finally answer the last calls and put down the phone.

    Available Now on Switch and PC

    If you haven’t started this beautifully melancholy adventure yet, there is no better time to dive in. Developed by a passionate three-person team, the game won the Grand Prize at the Shueisha Game Creators CAMP and has been praised for its theatrical presentation and intimate approach to grief, love, and human connection.

    Schrödinger’s Call is currently available to purchase on PC via Steam and the Nintendo Switch.

    Are you ready to witness the end of the world? Let us know your theories on Mary and Hamlet in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #SchrodingersCall #ShueishaGames #AcrobaticChirimenjako #IndieGames #GamingNews #VisualNovel #NintendoSwitch #SteamGames #CozyGames #TechMash

  • Grab a Pint and a Sword: ‘The Drifting Crown’ Demo Is Out Now!

    Grab a Pint and a Sword: ‘The Drifting Crown’ Demo Is Out Now!

    Let’s be honest: video games have asked us to save the world, save the galaxy, and save the princess. But rarely do they ask us to save what truly matters.

    The local pub.

    If you’ve been craving a fresh indie tactical RPG with a healthy dose of British humour and high-stakes tavern defence, your order is up. The Drifting Crown demo is officially live on Steam, and it’s time to find out if you have what it takes to protect the realm’s finest watering hole.

    What is The Drifting Crown?

    Developed by a passionate team of indie devs, The Drifting Crown is a turn-based tactical RPG that mixes grid-based strategy with a heavy splash of personality.

    The premise? The kingdom is in absolute shambles. The crown is missing, monsters are roaming the countryside, and bandits are terrorising the locals. But worst of all? They are threatening the local pub—the literal heart and soul of your community.

    As a ragtag group of unlikely heroes (who would frankly rather be drinking than fighting), it’s up to you to pick up your weapons, defend your pints, and drive back the hordes.

    Why You Need to Download the Demo Right Now

    1. Tactical Combat with a Twist

    Don’t let the cosy pub vibes fool you; the combat requires genuine strategy. You’ll need to utilise the environment, manage your action points, and position your party perfectly to survive the onslaught. Think Final Fantasy Tactics meets Shaun of the Dead.

    2. Characters with Actual Character

    Say goodbye to the brooding, chosen-one protagonists. The heroes in The Drifting Crown are deeply flawed, incredibly witty, and highly relatable. Their banter alone makes the demo worth playing.

    3. A Gorgeous Pixel Art Style

    The game features beautifully detailed, vibrant pixel art that perfectly captures both the cosy warmth of a roaring tavern fire and the gritty tension of a battlefield.

    How to Play

    The demo is available as part of Steam’s latest lineup, giving you a generous slice of the early game. You’ll get a feel for the combat mechanics, meet the core cast, and experience the opening battle to save your favourite establishment.

    TechMash Verdict: If you love indie RPGs that don’t take themselves too seriously but still offer a mechanical challenge, The Drifting Crown needs to be on your wishlist immediately.

    Head over to Steam, download the demo, and let us know in the comments how many turns you survived!

    Find out more here

    #TheDriftingCrown #IndieGames #RPG #GamingNews #SteamDemo #PCGaming #SaveThePub #TechMash

  • The Earth Is Shaking: Albion Online Unleashes ‘Keeper Uprising’ Live Event on July 4th

    The Earth Is Shaking: Albion Online Unleashes ‘Keeper Uprising’ Live Event on July 4th

    Albion adventurers, brace yourselves. After weeks of eerie rumours and growing unrest across the continent, Sandbox Interactive has officially confirmed that a massive, radical faction of Keepers is mobilising. On July 4, a dangerous ancient ritual will trigger a season-long narrative conflict: The Keeper Uprising.

    Running for two months alongside Guild Season 33, this unique live event promises to shake up the sandbox MMORPG with evolving world encounters, exclusive loot, and deep lore drops that will pave the way toward Albion’s next major content update.

    Here is everything you need to know about the upcoming chaos.

    Meet the Ashborn: New Enemies Enter the Fray

    The peaceful days of predictable farming and standard dungeon runs are over. A rebellious faction of Keepers known as the Ashborn is spreading across Albion’s zones.

    As their ritual takes hold, the event will evolve in distinct phases:

    • Phase One: Keepers will begin abandoning their traditional dungeons, venturing into areas they have never set foot in before. Keep your eyes peeled for the Mammoth Hunter, a fierce new foe wandering the open world.
    • The Escalation: As the weeks progress, heavier hordes of Ashborn will join the fray, presenting escalating challenges for solo fighters and groups alike.

    Uncover Secrets via Keeper Memories

    For the lore hounds of Albion, Sandbox Interactive is introducing Keeper Memories. These are fragments of untradable lore scattered throughout the world—some hidden deep within Albion’s most treacherous zones, others dropped exclusively by defeating specific event mobs.

    Collecting these fragments will piece together the secret history of the Keepers and the true motivation behind their violent rebellion. These Memories will be permanently tracked in the Albion Journal under the Exploration category, complete with built-in hints to help you track down the missing pieces even after the event ends.

    Exclusive Activities & Rewards

    Running from July 4 until August 31, players can access a dedicated suite of Keeper-related missions right from the Activities UI.

    Completing these challenges will unlock milestones for a limited-time, themed vanity items that will disappear once the uprising concludes. Make sure to grind these out if you want to claim:

    • The Ashborn Armour
    • The Ashborn Helmet
    • The Ashborn Avatar Ring

    Attention Guilds: Season Points Overhaul

    If you are part of a competitive guild, take note. For the duration of Guild Season 33, the traditional Crystal Creatures challenge is being temporarily replaced by a dedicated Guild Challenge. Guilds will be handsomely rewarded with a considerable injection of Season Points for hunting down and neutralising the Ashborn threats across the continent.

    Get Ready to Fight

    Whether you are a hardened PvP veteran, an open-world explorer, or a master craftsman looking to profit off the wartime economy, the Keeper Uprising offers a dynamic, evolving playground where everyone has a part to play. Log in on July 4, watch the horizons, and prepare to defend Albion.

    Are you going to be hunting the Ashborn on day one? Let us know your build plans in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #AlbionOnline #KeeperUprising #MMORPG #SandboxInteractive #GamingNews #PCGaming #MobileGaming #SandboxMMO #GuildSeason33 #TechMash

  • Table Football Meets Total Chaos: Pimbolas is Bringing Arcade Mayhem to Steam This July

    Table Football Meets Total Chaos: Pimbolas is Bringing Arcade Mayhem to Steam This July

    The humble pub foosball table is about to get a serious digital upgrade—and by upgrade, we mean a healthy dose of absolute, unpredictable madness.

    Get ready to rally your crew, because Pimbolas is officially launching on Steam on July 16. Developed by the talented Brazilian team at Nano Knight Studio, this indie title takes the core mechanics of traditional tabletop foosball and straps them to an arcade rocket, blasting strategy, skill, and pure chaos into every single frame.

    Foosball, But Make It Wild

    If you’re expecting a straightforward sports simulator, think again. Pimbolas is a fast-paced physics party game designed to completely reinvent how we look at tabletop football. Born from an internal studio game jam after one of the developers played foosball for the first time, Nano Knight Studio quickly realised they had a hit on their hands. Instead of worrying about strict rules, they focused on making a game that is easy to pick up, impossible to put down, and wildly unpredictable.

    No two matches are ever the same. The game is packed with unique arenas and a massive variety of game-changing modifiers and power-ups. Just when you think you’ve lined up the perfect shot, the game throws a curveball—sometimes literally.

    What Can You Expect on the Pitch?

    • Insane Ball Physics: Forget the standard white plastic ball. Prepare to face down giant balls, square balls, fireballs, and ice balls.
    • Hazardous Environments: Matches can quickly devolve into chaos when explosive bombs drop onto the field, or when unusual objects like coconuts and crabs start disrupting your playstyle.
    • Arcade Mode & Unlocks: Playing solo? Dive into the single-player Arcade Mode to test your skills against the CPU, unlocking a vibrant roster of new characters, items, and challenges as you progress.
    • 4-Player Local Multiplayer: Pimbolas shines brightest as a party game. Gather up to four friends on the couch for local split-screen PvP or co-op sessions that are guaranteed to end in shouts, laughs, and broken friendships (the good kind).

    “The goal was always to create a game that is easy to learn, but hard to put down,” says Baptixta, Game Designer of Pimbolas. “Whether playing alone against the CPU or gathering friends in local multiplayer for up to four players, the idea is to deliver quick, competitive matches full of unexpected moments for everyone.”

    A Tribute to Great Party Games

    Drawing inspiration from multiplayer gems like Boomerang Fu, Mario Strikers, Rocket League, and Super Smash Bros., Pimbolas balances competitive depth with casual, pick-up-and-play fun. It’s a colourful, high-energy love letter to both Brazilian football culture and classic arcade action.

    Ready to Play?

    Pimbolas officially drops on July 16 for Windows, Mac, and Linux (and it’s already fully compatible for your Steam Deck sessions!). If you can’t wait until mid-July to experience the madness, there is a free demo available right now on Steam for you to try out.

    Head over to Steam, test your reflexes, and don’t forget to hit that wishlist button!

    Find out more here

    #Pimbolas #NanoKnightStudio #IndieGames #SteamGames #Foosball #GamingNews #PCGaming #PartyGames #ArcadeGaming #TechMash