TECHMASH

Category: Gaming

  • 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

  • Reclaim Your Galaxy: The Massive X4: Foundations 9.00 “Empire” Update Drops June 10th!

    Reclaim Your Galaxy: The Massive X4: Foundations 9.00 “Empire” Update Drops June 10th!

    Space pilots, traders, and galactic conquerors, dust off your flight suits. Egosoft has officially dropped a bombshell trailer and announced that the highly anticipated 9.00 Empire Update for X4: Foundations is launching on June 10th.

    If you thought you had your corner of the universe completely automated and secure, it’s time to think again. This massive, completely free update is set to radically expand and refine the open-ended space simulation we’ve poured hundreds of hours into.

    Check out the brand-new trailer below to see the universe in motion:

    What’s New in the Empire Update?

    While Egosoft loves a good surprise, the “Empire” moniker hints at a massive overhaul to how you manage your sprawling galactic domains. X4: Foundations has always been praised for its unparalleled scale—allowing you to transition seamlessly from piloting a single scout ship to commanding a fleet of capital carriers—and version 9.00 is doubling down on that sandbox freedom.

    Here is what we can look forward to based on Egosoft’s stellar track record and the fresh teaser:

    • Refined Empire Management: Streamlined UI and deeper tactical control over your stations, trade routes, and sector ownership.
    • Visual and Performance Polishing: Enhanced graphics and engine optimisations to ensure those massive fleet battles run smoother than ever.
    • Gameplay Rebalancing: Adjustments to the economy and AI behaviour to make the universe feel more reactive, alive, and challenging.
    • New Quality-of-Life Features: Features designed to reduce the late-game micromanagement grind, letting you focus on grand strategy.

    The Sandbox Just Got Bigger

    What makes X4 so special is that it doesn’t hold your hand. You can be a humble space miner, a ruthless pirate, a corporate tycoon, or a military dictator. By continuously updating the game for free, Egosoft proves once again why they are the kings of the niche space-sim genre.

    Mark your calendars for June 10th, fire up your jump drives, and get ready to rebuild your empire from the ground up.

    Are you planning to start a brand-new save file for the 9.00 update, or will you be importing your current multi-billion credit empire? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #X4Foundations #Egosoft #SpaceSim #PCGaming #GamingNews

  • Lost in Magic: Atmospheric Maze Adventure ‘Go North’ Locks In Summer Release Date

    Lost in Magic: Atmospheric Maze Adventure ‘Go North’ Locks In Summer Release Date

    The recent Black Voices in Gaming Showcase just dropped a major highlight for indie game lovers. Go North, the highly anticipated, atmospheric maze adventure, officially has a release date.

    Crafted by the talented one-man studio gazuntype (developer Tade Ajiboye), this striking title invites players to brave a gorgeous, tranquil wilderness where ancient magic and technology are intricately woven together.

    What is Go North?

    In Go North, you guide an adventurer named Dara through a series of beautifully unique, immersive labyrinths. The goal is simple yet profound: find the exit due north to meet the elusive Maze God, who grants a single wish to anyone clever enough to find him.

    Unlike traditional puzzle games that stress you out with timers and penalties, Go North prioritises peace over progress. It’s designed to be a “cosy calamity”—a tranquil representation of being lost, encouraging players to mindfully meander, unwind, and enjoy a slower pace of life.

    Key Features to Look Forward To:

    • A World of Magic & Tech: Utilise unique relics to navigate, from the moth-shaped Lunaboard hoverboard to a levitating bubble that grants a bird’s-eye view of the maze.
    • Intricate Level Design: Explore stunning third-person environments ranging from twisted forest thickets and sky islands to grand bookshelf corridors.
    • Quaint Customisation: Discover secret Golden Compasses hidden in each maze to unlock cute cosmetics like hats, scarves, and goggles for Dara.
    • Multiplayer Modes: When you want to pick up the pace, you can compete against friends in cross-platform online multiplayer races or dive into an endless loop of mazes via Arcade Mode.

    Demo Arriving for Steam Next Fest!

    Can’t wait until mid-summer to start exploring? You won’t have to wait long. A brand-new demo is arriving ahead of Steam Next Fest.

    The upcoming demo will debut four brand-new levels, introduce never-before-seen puzzles, and showcase a newly added Camera mechanic. Players will also get a first glimpse at the game’s stunning new opening cinematic to set the mood.

    Release Date and Platforms

    Mark your calendars! Go North officially launches on Tuesday, July 28, 2026.

    • Launch Platforms: PC (via Steam) and Xbox Series X|S.
    • In Development: A Nintendo Switch version is also actively in the works for a later release.

    If you’re looking for a breathtaking indie title that trades high-stakes stress for beautiful, atmospheric exploration, make sure to head over to Steam and add Go North to your wishlist today!

    Find out more here

    #IndieGames #GoNorth #SteamNextFest #XboxSeriesX #CozyGaming