TECHMASH

Tag: #hackandslash

  • Unleash the Dragons! Dragonkin: The Banished Gets Massive Free ‘Dracomundus Purgatory’ Update with Cross-Play

    Unleash the Dragons! Dragonkin: The Banished Gets Massive Free ‘Dracomundus Purgatory’ Update with Cross-Play

    If you have been craving intense, dragon-slaying hack-and-slash action, NACON and developer EKO Software have given you the ultimate reason to pick up your blades. Following its release in March 2026, Dragonkin: The Banished has captivated dark fantasy ARPG fans—and now, the game is getting a game-changing expansion.

    NACON has officially released Dracomundus Purgatory, a massive free update available now across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Whether you’re a seasoned endgame hunter or a newcomer stepping into the dragon-corrupted world for the first time, this update brings massive quality-of-life enhancements, endless replayability, and new ways to team up with friends.

    Here is everything you need to know about the Dracomundus Purgatory update!

    1. Break Down the Barriers: Full Cross-Play & City Transfer

    Co-op monster hunting is at the heart of Dragonkin: The Banished, and NACON is taking social play to the next level:

    • Full Cross-Play: Console and PC borders are officially down! Players across PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC can now seamlessly squad up, fight side-by-side, share loot easily, and progress together without platform restrictions.
    • City Transfer Feature: Your settlement growth no longer stops when you switch playstyles. With the new City Transfer mechanic, you can freely transfer your city’s progress between online and offline modes whenever you like.

    2. Enter the Dracomundus Purgatory: The Ultimate Endgame Challenge

    Looking to test your build against unrelenting odds? Accessible through a portal after completing an endgame hunt, the new Dracomundus Purgatory mode is an adrenaline-fueled race against time.

    • Randomised Island Gauntlet: Each run pulls three distinct islands from a pool of over 50 unique locations, making every attempt feel fresh.
    • Beat the Clock: You aren’t just fighting monsters—you are fighting the timer. Eliminate hordes as quickly as possible and smash Draconic Altars scattered across the terrain to recover precious seconds.
    • The Final Showdown: Clear the gauntlet and survive long enough, and you’ll face the fearsome Champion of Purgatory in a high-stakes boss battle.

    3. Devour Power with Voracious Weapons & Custom Forging

    Tougher challenges demand far deadlier arsenals. The update introduces a brand-new equipment category: Voracious Weapons.

    • Unique Passive Traits: These rare armaments carry game-changing passive abilities designed to completely alter how your character’s combat style functions.
    • Sacrifice Gear to Power Up: Got unwanted loot cluttering your inventory? You can now sacrifice unused weapons to power up your Voracious Weapons and push their power levels to new heights.
    • Custom Forging & Ancestral Grid: Tailor your gear to perfection. A new custom forging mechanic lets you pick exact affixes to transfer onto your weapons, creating ultimate synergies with your character’s Ancestral Grid progression system.

    Ready for the Hunt?

    With full cross-play, endless randomised endgame gauntlets, and deep new gear customisation, Dracomundus Purgatory is an impressive expansion for an already stellar ARPG. Best of all? It’s completely free for all owners of Dragonkin: The Banished.

    Gather your party, sharpen your gear, and dive back into the fray today!

    Find out more here

    #Dragonkin #DragonkinTheBanished #NACON #EKOSoftware #DracomundusPurgatory #GamingNews #ARPG #HackAndSlash #CrossPlay #GamingCommunity #TechMash

  • Ready Your Blades! Medieval Hack-and-Slash ‘Tears of Metal’ Launches Today in Early Access & PC Game Pass

    Ready Your Blades! Medieval Hack-and-Slash ‘Tears of Metal’ Launches Today in Early Access & PC Game Pass

    If you loved the fast-paced, visceral combat of Bloodroots, get ready for Paper Cult’s next big action hit!

    Developer Paper Cult has officially launched Tears of Metal, a brand-new medieval hack-and-slash roguelike, into Early Access today. Whether you’re looking to slash through hordes solo or team up with friends in co-op, this action-packed title is ready to deliver relentless, blood-soaked battles.

    Here is everything you need to know about the launch, pricing, and game features!

    Launch Details & Availability

    Tears of Metal is available starting today across major PC platforms:

    • Steam: Available in Early Access for $24.99 USD — plus a 10% launch discount for early adopters!
    • Microsoft Store: Available via PC Game Pass from day one!

    What is Tears of Metal?

    Set on a troubled, war-torn island, Tears of Metal combines the thrill of large-scale hack-and-slash combat with deep roguelike progression. Your goal? Take back your island from invading forces, one brutal clash at a time.

    Key Features:

    • Build Your Battalion: You don’t have to fight alone. Recruit and lead soldiers to swell your ranks and turn the tide of massive battles.
    • Devastating Upgrades & Abilities: Combine powerful offensive skill trees, game-changing upgrades, and explosive abilities to tailor your playstyle and obliterate hordes of enemies.
    • Solo or Co-op Chaos: Take on the campaign by yourself or rally your friends in online co-op for tactical, high-octane team combat.
    • Roguelike Replayability: Every run offers fresh challenges, dynamic battlefields, and new opportunities to power up your army and reclaim lost territory.

    Why You Should Check It Out

    Paper Cult proved their mastery of tight, satisfying action combat with Bloodroots, and Tears of Metal expands that vision into grand-scale battalion warfare. With the option to jump in via Steam with a launch discount or stream/download directly through PC Game Pass, there’s never been a better time to grab your broadsword and head into battle.

    Will you conquer the island and restore peace to your homeland, or fall to the invasion? Grab your squad and jump into Tears of Metal today!

    Find out more here

    #TearsOfMetal #PaperCult #Bloodroots #IndieGames #GamingNews #Steam #PCGamePass #Roguelike #HackAndSlash #TechMash #PCGaming

  • Every Knight Needs a Sword: God of War Veterans Unveil ‘Swordcery’ This August!

    Every Knight Needs a Sword: God of War Veterans Unveil ‘Swordcery’ This August!

    Every knight needs a trusty blade. But what happens when your sword is made of literal lightning, ancient magic, or… something entirely unimaginable?

    Mark your calendars for August 11th, because the world of Armorial is opening its gates. Swordcery, the highly anticipated hack-and-slash roguelite ARPG, is officially slicing its way into Early Access!

    From the Minds Behind God of War (2018)

    If you’re wondering whether the combat is going to feel absolutely spectacular, you can rest easy. Temple Door Games was founded by two brilliant cinematic artists who helped bring Kratos’ legendary 2018 Norse journey to life. They are bringing that same epic, cinematic weight and fluid combat expertise straight into the indie scene.

    In Swordcery, you’ll explore the vibrant but dangerous world of Armorial, a realm overflowing with cosmic power and deadly enemies.

    “Wait… Can That Be a Sword?!”

    Swordcery isn’t your average dungeon crawler. This is a game that fundamentally asks one hilarious and awesome question: what exactly can’t be a sword? As you fight your way through ever-changing roguelite runs, you will collect the most dangerous, bizarre, and reality-bending blades in gaming history. From sleek, traditional steel to cosmic anomalies that defy the laws of physics, your arsenal will be as unpredictable as it is devastating.

    The Roguelite Twist: No two runs in Armorial are the same. You’ll have to adapt to the swords you find, master their unique magical properties, and hack your way through hordes of enemies to uncover the world’s secrets.

    What to Expect on August 11th:

    • Weighty, Cinematic Combat: Built by developers who know how to make every swing feel incredibly satisfying.
    • An Unimaginable Arsenal: Dozens of unique, reality-defying swords to collect, loot, and master.
    • Infinite Replayability: A true roguelite loop with shifting environments, scaling challenges, and deep ARPG progression.

    Whether you’re a die-hard fan of action RPGs or just want to see how far the definition of a “sword” can be pushed, Swordcery is shaping up to be August’s must-play indie title.

    Prepare your loadout, knights. Armorial is waiting.

    Find out more here

    #Swordcery #TempleDoorGames #IndieGames #GamingNews #GodOfWar #ARPG #Roguelite #HackAndSlash #PCGaming #EarlyAccess

  • Hack, Slash, and Survive: Phantom Tower Hits Steam Early Access This July!

    Hack, Slash, and Survive: Phantom Tower Hits Steam Early Access This July!

    The wait is almost over for action RPG fans. After four long years of passionate development, Horien Studio has officially announced that their highly anticipated title, Phantom Tower, is launching into Steam Early Access on July 13th, 2026.

    If you’ve been craving a fresh, adrenaline-pumping challenge that tests your reflexes and tactical thinking, this is the title to watch.

    What is Phantom Tower?

    Phantom Tower is a fast-paced, roguelike action RPG that masterfully blends fluid, high-stakes hack-and-slash combat with the eerie, unpredictable nature of deep dungeon crawling.

    Players will find themselves scaling a shifting, perilous tower where no two runs are ever the same. Every floor throws new enemy types, environmental hazards, and brutal bosses at you, demanding split-second decisions and absolute mastery over your arsenal.

    Key Features to Get Hyped For:

    • Dynamic Combat: Chain together devastating combos, parry lethal attacks, and animation-cancel your way through hordes of enemies.
    • Deep Dungeon Crawling: Explore procedural layouts filled with hidden secrets, lore fragments, and game-changing loot.
    • Roguelike Replayability: Die, learn, upgrade, and repeat. Build synergies with unique perks and weapons to craft your ultimate playstyle.
    • 4 Years of Polish: Developed with love and meticulous attention to detail by Horien Studio to ensure the combat feels incredibly tight and responsive.

    Try the Demo Right Now! Can’t wait until July 13th? You don’t have to. Horien Studio has released a free playable demo on Steam right now. It gives you a taste of the first few floors, the core combat mechanics, and a sneak peek at the build variety.

    Why Early Access?

    Horien Studio is taking the Early Access route to collaborate directly with the community. Over the next phase of development, player feedback from the Steam community will actively shape balancing, new weapon types, additional tower floors, and endgame content.

    Mark your calendars for July 13th, head over to Steam, and wishlist Phantom Tower today to support an indie gem four years in the making.

    Find out more here

    #PhantomTower #HorienStudio #IndieDev #ActionRPG #Roguelike #HackAndSlash #SteamEarlyAccess #PCGaming #GamingNews #TechMash

  • Prepare for Battle: Tears of Metal Slashes Onto Steam and Microsoft Store This July!

    Prepare for Battle: Tears of Metal Slashes Onto Steam and Microsoft Store This July!

    Great news for roguelike fans and hack-and-slash enthusiasts! Montreal-based indie studio Paper Cult—the brilliant minds behind the critically acclaimed action game Bloodroots—has officially announced the Early Access release date for their highly anticipated title, Tears of Metal.

    Mark your calendars: the medieval co-op hack-and-slash roguelike is set to launch on July 22 on both Steam and the Microsoft Store.

    Lead Your Battalion to Victory

    In Tears of Metal, players are thrown into a gorgeous, war-torn landscape where they must carve through massive hordes of enemies to reclaim their island home. Following a mysterious “Dragon Stone Meteor” event that brought ruthless occupiers to their shores, you are tasked with leading a formidable Scottish battalion into the trenches.

    The game successfully blends intense, large-scale hack-and-slash combat with the unpredictable, high-stakes progression of a roguelike.

    What to Expect in Early Access

    Paper Cult isn’t holding back for this launch. The Early Access build is arriving with a substantial amount of content right out of the gate:

    • Three Full Acts: Each act introduces distinct environments, unique enemy types, elite encounters, and punishing boss fights.
    • Playable Heroes & Combinations: Choose between multiple unique heroes and combine your skills with over 100 different artefacts to create devastating, custom builds.
    • Persistent Upgrades: Between campaigns, return to your settlement to expand it, unlock new vendors, and permanently upgrade your soldiers so they grow stronger with every run.
    • Solo or Co-op Play: Team up with friends or take on the enemy hordes alone across more than 45 handcrafted environments.

    Xbox Game Pass & Launch Details

    For PC players using the Microsoft Store, there’s an extra treat: Tears of Metal will be available on PC Game Pass from day one. If you prefer console gaming, Paper Cult has confirmed that an Xbox Series X|S version is currently slated to land before the end of the year.

    Last Chance for the Demo: If you want a free taste of the combat before the official release, act fast! Paper Cult will be retiring the current Steam demo on July 6 to prepare for the massive Early Access launch.

    Official pricing details will be fully dynamic upon the storefronts going live on launch day, so keep your eyes peeled to your preferred platform.

    With over 400,000 wishlists already accumulated on Steam since its initial reveal, Tears of Metal is shaping up to be one of the biggest indie hits of the summer. Head over to Steam or the Microsoft Store to add it to your wishlist now!

    Are you ready to lead your battalion into the fray? Let us know if you’ll be playing solo or teaming up in co-op this July!

    Find out more here

    #TearsOfMetal #PaperCult #IndieGames #GamingNews #SteamEarlyAccess #PCGamePass #HackAndSlash #Roguelike #CoOpGaming #TechMash

  • Titan Quest II Just Dropped Its Massive “Wild Lands” Update: Are You Ready to Face Nemesis?

    Titan Quest II Just Dropped Its Massive “Wild Lands” Update: Are You Ready to Face Nemesis?

    The threads of fate are unravelling, Demigods. Grimlore Games and THQ Nordic have just unleashed the biggest early access update for Titan Quest II yet—Chapter 4: The Wild Lands. If you thought your journey through mythic Greece was getting comfortable, think again. The Goddess of Retribution, Nemesis, has stopped plotting from the shadows and is ready to test your absolute limits.

    Here is everything you need to know about the massive new challenge awaiting you in the untamed wilderness.

    Step Into the Wild Lands

    The heart of this update is a massive, handcrafted expansion of the game world. The Wild Lands are beautiful but utterly unforgiving. As you explore, you will traverse diverse new biomes that showcase the verticality and detail of Unreal Engine 5:

    • Ancient Ruins & Hidden Secrets: Walk among the remains of colossal creatures that once ruled the earth.
    • The Buried City: Unearth mysteries from a city long swallowed by the desert sands.
    • Perilous Swamps & Enemy Encampments: Navigate treacherous mires and push through heavily fortified centaur camps.
    • The Temple of Nemesis: A massive, daunting structure dedicated to the Goddess of Retribution herself.

    With over 30 new quests, this exploration-focused chapter ensures that every hidden grove and deep cavern holds either legendary loot or a fight for your life.

    New Threats: Boarmen and Rival Centaurs

    Surviving the Wild Lands requires more than just button-mashing. The update introduces deadly new enemy factions, including brutal Boarmen and heavily organised Centaur tribes.

    These foes won’t just charge blindly; they utilise smart faction AI to work together, combining their unique skills to flank and disrupt your build. To top it off, the conflict with the centaurs reaches its climax here as you prepare to confront King Centaurus himself.

    Level Cap Raised and Tier 5 Passives Unlocked

    To help you survive the fury of a literal goddess, the development team has given players a serious power boost:

    • Level Cap Increased: You can now power your hero all the way up to Level 55.
    • Tier 5 Passives: Unlock devastating new endgame passive skills to further refine your hybrid masteries.
    • New Relics & Charms: Deeper build optimisation is now possible, allowing you to fine-tune your stats, affix-craft your weapons, and maximise your combat efficiency.

    The Verdict: If you’ve been waiting for a reason to jump back into Titan Quest II Early Access, Chapter 4 is it. The scale of the Wild Lands, combined with the looming threat of Nemesis, makes this a definitive moment for the ARPG sequel. Grab your divine mount, call on your friends for multiplayer co-op, and go prove your immortality.

    Titan Quest II: Chapter 4: Wild Lands is available now on PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store.

    Find out more here

    #TitanQuest2 #WildLandsUpdate #ARPG #GamingNews #PCGaming #THQNordic #GrimloreGames #MythologyGaming #HackAndSlash #EarlyAccess

  • Banishing Gods for Love: SoulQuest Slashes Onto PC

    Banishing Gods for Love: SoulQuest Slashes Onto PC

    If you think your dating life is complicated, spare a thought for Alys. In the newly released SoulQuest, developed by TomasJPereyra (SoulBlade Studio) and published by indie.io, “till death do us part” was clearly taken as a challenge rather than a vow.

    Available now on PC via Steam, this stylish pixel-art hack-and-slash is a high-octane journey through Celtic mythology, where the only thing sharper than the protagonist’s grief is her blade.

    A Quest Beyond the Veil

    At its heart, SoulQuest is a classic tale of defiance. When Alys’ husband is taken by the gods, she doesn’t just mourn—she gears up. Accompanied by the druid Abanus, Alys sets out to defy the Celtic pantheon, specifically targeting Morrigan, the Goddess of Death, to reclaim her beloved’s soul.

    It’s a refreshing take on the genre, blending the sombre themes of Arthurian legend with the vibrant, brutal world of Celtic folklore.

    Combat That Rewards Style

    If you’re a fan of Devil May Cry or Bayonetta, you’ll feel right at home here. SoulQuest isn’t just about button-mashing; it’s about the art of the kill. The game features:

    • Deep Combo System: Chain together light and heavy attacks, air juggles, and wall-jumps.
    • The Ranking System: Your performance is graded from F to SSS. If you aren’t fighting with flair, the game will let you know.
    • Magic and Ultimates: Beyond the blade, Alys can harness powerful spells and finishers to clear screens of godly lackeys.
    • A Massive Move-set: For an indie title, the depth of the move list is staggering, divided into combat skills, magic, and movement abilities.

    Retro Aesthetics, Modern Polish

    Visually, the game is a treat for pixel-art enthusiasts. It captures that “neo-retro” vibe perfectly—fluid animations and detailed backgrounds that bring the misty British Isles to life, all set to a medieval-themed soundtrack that keeps the adrenaline pumping.

    Tech Tip: The game is fully optimized for Steam Deck, making it a perfect pick for some god-slaying on the commute.

    Verdict: Should You Play It?

    SoulQuest is a testament to what a small, dedicated team can achieve. It manages to balance a heavy, emotional narrative with gameplay that is fast, frantic, and incredibly satisfying. If you’re looking to test your reflexes and tear through some deities in the name of love, Alys’ journey is one you shouldn’t miss.

    SoulQuest is out now on PC. Check it out on Steam and show those gods who’s really in charge.

    Are you ready to climb the ranks of the Celtic pantheon, or do you think some souls are better left with the Goddess of Death?

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/2512450

    #SoulQuest #hackandslash #TomasJPereyra #Indieio #PC #steam #gods #demons #combat #CelticFolklore #Arthurian #myths #gamers #gaming #videogames

  • Shaping the Machine: A Deep Dive into Ekku in Morbid Metal

    Shaping the Machine: A Deep Dive into Ekku in Morbid Metal

    The long-awaited wait is over. As of April 8, 2026, SCREEN JUICE and Ubisoft have officially unleashed Morbid Metal into Steam Early Access. If you’ve been following this stylish hack-and-slash roguelite, you know it’s all about the “techno-ballet”—the seamless, mid-combat shapeshifting between distinct AI forms.

    While Flux is your agile starter and Vekta provides long-range control, there is one character that has quickly become a fan favourite for those who prefer “heavy metal” over “finesse”: Ekku.

    Who is Ekku?

    Unlocked during your journey through the first biome, the Sublime Garden, Ekku is a striking contrast to the high-speed blinking of Flux. Described as a “steel-bodied AI samurai,” Ekku is defined by raw power, physical presence, and a massive, engine-driven cleaver that looks like it could split a skyscraper.

    The Playstyle: Weight and Impact

    If Flux is a scalpel, Ekku is a sledgehammer. Playing as Ekku requires a shift in mindset:

    • Slower, Deliberate Strikes: You won’t be zip-zooming across the arena as easily, but every hit carries immense weight and stagger potential.
    • Area of Effect (AoE): His sweeping attacks are perfect for clearing out waves of smaller machines that threaten to overwhelm you.
    • The Heavy Hitter: Ekku excels at breaking through enemy defences and dealing massive “posture” or shield damage, making him essential for boss encounters.

    Mastering the Shapeshift Combo

    The magic of Morbid Metal isn’t just playing as one character; it’s the transition. Because shapeshifting is instant, Ekku becomes the “anchor” of your most devastating combos.

    Pro Tip: Try launching a group of enemies into the air with Flux’s rapid strikes, then mid-air, swap to Ekku to perform a crushing overhead slam. The impact not only deals massive damage but creates a shockwave that sets up your next character transition.

    Why Ekku Matters in the Roguelite Loop

    In the gritty, dystopian world of Morbid Metal, every “iteration” (run) is a test of adaptability. As you progress, you’ll find Protocols and Corpora (upgrades) that can further augment Ekku’s kit:

    • Impact Buffs: Increase the radius of his ground slams.
    • Defensive Shards: Since Ekku is a larger target, look for upgrades that grant temporary armour or health-on-kill to keep your momentum going.

    The Verdict: A Heavyweight Champion

    Ekku represents the “Oomph” in Morbid Metal’s combat loop. While the game is still in Early Access—meaning the developers are actively looking for feedback on balancing and enemy variety—the core feel of playing as Ekku is already incredibly polished.

    Whether you’re exploring the fractured temples of the Sublime Garden or pushing into the dilapidated cityscapes of the second biome, Ekku is the powerhouse you’ll want in your arsenal.

    Have you managed to survive a full run with Ekku yet, or are you sticking to the speed of Flux? Let us know in the comments below!

    Morbid Metal is available now on Steam. Requirements: Windows 10, Intel i5/i7, and at least a GTX 1650 (though an RTX 3070 is recommended for those 4K 60FPS techno-vibes).

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/S3TeN

    #MorbidMetal #hackandslash #roguelite #scifi #ubisoft #ekku #screenjuice #games #gaming #gamers #robots #battles #combat

  • Dark Scrolls is launching in 2026 on PC and Nintendo Switch!

    Dark Scrolls is launching in 2026 on PC and Nintendo Switch!

    Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the “masocore” genre or just someone who appreciates a beautifully crafted pixelated death, the team at Doinksoft has something special cooking.

    Fresh off the heels of the gritty Gunbrella and the cat-in-a-mech cult classic Gato Roboto, Doinksoft and publisher Devolver Digital have officially pulled back the curtain on Dark Scrolls.

    Coming to PC (Steam) and Nintendo Switch later in 2026, this title is shaping up to be one of the most chaotic indie releases of the year. Here’s why it should be on your radar.

    What is Dark Scrolls?

    At its core, Dark Scrolls is a “pixel-perfect dungeon scroller.” Imagine the methodical exploration of a classic 1980s dungeon crawler blended with the bullet-hell intensity of a “shmup” (shoot ’em up).

    According to Doinksoft’s Cullen Dwyer, the game was born out of a bit of healthy frustration with the modern “roguelike” label. Dwyer joked that while many modern games claim the title, few capture the gridlocked, high-stakes tension of the 80s originals. Dark Scrolls aims to bridge that gap—mixing old-school difficulty with modern, fluid controls.

    Key Features to Get Excited About

    A “Rogue’s Gallery” of Heroes: You won’t just be playing as a generic knight. There are nine unlockable heroes, ranging from burly berserkers to… a saxophone-playing rat. Each comes with unique skills, side objectives, and customizable trinkets.

    Chaos with a Friend: The game features both local and online co-op. You can strategise with a buddy, combine elemental powers, and—perhaps most importantly—revive each other when things inevitably go sideways.

    Procedural Mastery: While the rooms themselves are hand-crafted to ensure high-quality level design, the way they are stitched together is procedurally generated. No two runs will feel the same.

    Arcade Alchemy: As you progress, you’ll visit Bruce & Goose’s Shoppe to spend your hard-earned coins on perks and summoned allies. Stack them correctly, and you’ll unleash the kind of “screen-filling destruction” usually reserved for arcade legends.

    The Doinksoft Signature

    If you’ve played Gato Roboto or Gunbrella, you know what to expect: tight mechanics, a distinct visual identity, and a quirky sense of humour. The reveal trailer showcases a vibrant, high-energy world where you’re just as likely to hurl a magical axe as you are to “flip a steak” at a bizarre enemy.

    The game isn’t just a test of reflexes; it’s an invitation to explore a world packed with secrets and branching paths. Whether you’re playing solo on your PC or taking the chaos on the go with the Switch, Dark Scrolls looks like it’s going to be a must-play for 2026.

    Stay Tuned to Techmash

    We’ll be keeping a close eye on the exact release date as Devolver Digital drops more info later this year. For now, you can head over to Steam to add Dark Scrolls to your wishlist!

    Find out more here – https://www.devolverdigital.com/

    #Doinksoft #devolverdigital #darkscrolls #hackandslash #combat #battles #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Defy the Heavens: SoulQuest Debuts Its “God Boss” in New Steam Next Fest Demo

    Defy the Heavens: SoulQuest Debuts Its “God Boss” in New Steam Next Fest Demo

    Defy the Heavens: SoulQuest Debuts Its “God Boss” in New Steam Next Fest Demo

    The heavens are about to get a lot more crowded—and a lot more chaotic. If you’ve been tracking SoulQuest, the high-octane 2D hack-and-slash from SoulBlade Studio, it’s time to sharpen your blade. As part of the February 2026 Steam Next Fest, a brand-new demo has dropped, and it’s finally giving us a taste of what the game’s title truly promises: a chance to fight the gods.

    A Widow’s Wrath Against Celtic Myth

    SoulQuest follows the story of Alys, a knight whose world is shattered when her husband, Gwydre, is taken by the gods. Refusing to accept a “divine verdict,” Alys embarks on a relentless journey through a world steeped in Celtic mythology. Her goal? To tear her husband’s soul back from the hands of Morrigan, the Goddess of Death.

    While previous builds showcased the game’s fluid movement, this latest demo takes the stakes to a celestial level.

    What’s New in the Next Fest Demo?

    This isn’t just a rehash of old levels. SoulBlade Studio and publisher indie.io have packed this version with significant updates designed to test your mastery of their “stylish action” system:

    • The First God Boss Fight: For the first time, players can go toe-to-toe with a divine adversary. This encounter is designed to be the ultimate skill check, demanding precision parries and perfectly timed aerial combos.
    • A Brand-New Zone: Explore a lore-rich environment that takes place shortly after the game’s opening. It features new enemy types and tighter platforming challenges that bridge the gap between “traversal” and “combat.”
    • Stylish Combat Ranks: Taking a page from the Devil May Cry playbook, the demo introduces SS and SSS ranks. Chaining together diverse attacks, magic abilities, and ultimates is the only way to reach the top.
    • Dynamic Music: The soundtrack now reacts to the intensity of your performance, shifting as you transition from basic mobs to the epic boss encounter.

    Precision Platforming Meets 2D Mayhem

    What sets SoulQuest apart from your average Metroidvania is its focus on expressive combat. Alys isn’t just a tank in heavy armour; she’s incredibly mobile. The demo highlights her ability to use vertical surfaces for sliding and wall-jumping, which are just as vital for outmanoeuvring a god’s AOE attack as they are for finding hidden secrets in the environment.

    The pixel art is another standout. The “forgotten island” setting feels moody and oppressive, yet the combat animations are crisp and vibrant, making every slash of Alys’s sword feel impactful.

    How to Play

    The SoulQuest demo is live right now on Steam as part of Next Fest (running through March 2nd, 2026). With the full game slated for a Q2 2026 release on PC and Nintendo Switch, this is likely the most polished look we’ll get before launch.

    Pro Tip: Don’t sleep on the “Abanus Wardrobe” feature in the demo—it’s a great way to customise Alys’s appearance and pets while you’re busy defying the afterlife.

    Find out more here – https://soulbladestudio.com/

    #SoulQuest #Kickstarter #2Daction #hackandslash #SoulBladeStudio #demogame #SteamNextFest #IndieFanFest #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #videogames

  • SKINWALKER: First Blood – When Desperation Makes a Monster

    SKINWALKER: First Blood – When Desperation Makes a Monster

    The horror landscape in gaming is about to get a whole lot darker and more morally complex. Get ready for SKINWALKER: First Blood, an upcoming action-platformer that trades jump scares for genuine, gut-wrenching choice.

    Developed by SISMO Games and published by Team17, this game isn’t just about surviving a creature from folklore—it’s about becoming one, and facing the dreadful cost of absolute power.

    The Ultimate Sacrifice: Story & Setting

    SKINWALKER: First Blood thrusts you into the shoes of a scientist faced with an impossible situation: his daughter is dying from a terminal illness. In a desperate bid to save her life, he enters into a horrific pact with a mysterious, formidable beast held captive within his father’s research facility.

    The core of the narrative is the trade: the creature’s freedom in exchange for the promise of a cure.

    • The Setting: The game takes place primarily within the sterile, but increasingly dangerous, confines of the research centre.
    • The Dilemma: To navigate the facility and eventually release the beast, you must switch between your two forms: the vulnerable scientist and the devastating monster.

    This is a story built on desperation, sacrifice, and the haunting question: how far would you go to save your child?

    Gameplay: Human & Beast

    What truly sets SKINWALKER: First Blood apart is its central dual-role mechanic. You’re not just fighting a monster; you are the monster, at least part-time.

    RolePlaystyleKey ActionsNarrative Impact
    Human ScientistSlow, Vulnerable, ExplorationInteract with co-workers, gather information, solve puzzles, access restricted areas.Progresses the narrative, uncovers secrets, and allows for dialogue choices.
    Beast (Skinwalker)Agile, Powerful, Hack n’ SlashTraverse air ducts, perform devastating executions on enemies (soldiers, other creatures).Clears threats and facilitates escape/progress. Innocent blood grants passive upgrades but carries heavy consequences.

    The gameplay is a strategic dance between these two forms. Your human form is necessary for subtlety and information gathering, while your beast form is for unbridled, visceral action.

    Crucial Feature: The game features a profound moral dilemma system. The civilians and soldiers you choose to kill as the beast, and the choices you make in dialogue, will directly affect the story’s outcome and the ultimate fate of the monster and your child.

    A Look Ahead: Anticipation is Building

    While we wait for more footage, what is known about SKINWALKER: First Blood points toward a game with deep narrative ambitions wrapped in a kinetic, pixelated action package. The blend of puzzle-solving vulnerability (as the scientist) and brutal, agile combat (as the beast) promises a unique, constantly shifting rhythm.

    It’s a welcome departure from traditional horror, using the famous, terrifying concept of the Skinwalker not just as a creature to be hunted, but as a power to be wielded, albeit one that stains the soul.

    SKINWALKER: First Blood is currently slated for a 2026 release on PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.

    If you’re looking for a game that challenges your morals as much as your reflexes, and you’re ready to embrace the darkness to save a life, keep this title firmly on your wishlist. The price of a cure has never been so high.

    Are you excited for the ethical quandaries of SKINWALKER: First Blood? What’s the darkest choice you’ve ever made in a video game? Share your thoughts below!

    Skinwalker: First Blood on Steam – https://shorturl.at/HCy0o

    #SkinwalkerFirstBlood #shapeshifter #hackandslash #action #Skinwalker #FirstBlood #team17 #sismogames #games #gaming #gamers #videogames #gametrailer

  • The Cult Classic Returns: Why We’re Still Rampaging Through the Dungeons

    The Cult Classic Returns: Why We’re Still Rampaging Through the Dungeons

    If you were gaming on platforms like Facebook or Kongregate in the early 2010s, the name Dungeon Rampage probably unlocks a core memory. This fast-paced, co-op, hack-and-slash RPG was more than just a Flash game—it was a chaotic, loot-filled adventure that amassed millions of players before its unfortunate shutdown in 2017.

    Well, grab your most outlandish weapon and tell your friends, because the rampage is officially back!

    What Made the Original So Explosive?

    Dungeon Rampage took the best parts of classic dungeon crawlers like Diablo and the arcade beat-em-up spirit of games like Castle Crashers and condensed it into an easily accessible online package.

    • Arcade-Style Action: The core gameplay was pure, unadulterated adrenaline. You’d sprint through randomly generated dungeons, smashing enemies, destroying destructible environments, and dodging traps in real-time, often with up to three friends by your side.
    • A Roster of Riotous Heroes: From the brute-force Berserker to the mysterious Vampire Hunter and the surprisingly effective Battle Chef, players could unlock and master a wide array of unique heroes. Each had distinct stats, weapon proficiencies, and a powerful ultimate ability called a “Dungeon Buster.”
    • Loot, Loot, and More Loot: Half the fun was the constant hunt for better gear. Thousands of different weapons and items dropped from chests and enemies, allowing for deep customization of your character’s build and style.
    • Co-op Chaos: The game truly shined in its multiplayer. Teaming up with friends (or strangers) to navigate the increasingly difficult leagues—from Rookie to Champion—was the ultimate test of coordination and mayhem.

    The Incredible Tale of Revival

    For many, the game’s sudden disappearance in 2017 was a heartbreak. However, a fan’s dedication has led to one of the most heartwarming comeback stories in recent memory.

    A die-hard fan, Angelos Mako, who started playing the game as a child, refused to let the game die. After years of searching, he successfully tracked down the original creators, recovered the lost source code (found on an old laptop!), and partnered with Gamebreaking Studios to bring the classic back to life.

    Following a successful Kickstarter campaign fueled by waves of nostalgic fans, the game has been reborn and is now available in Early Access on Steam!

    New Rampage, Modern Polish

    The team at Gamebreaking Studios hasn’t just ported the old Flash game; they’ve revitalized it for a new era. Here’s what the revived Dungeon Rampage brings to the table:

    • Rethought Monetization: The original game featured a “freemium” model. The new version is a one-time purchase, completely removing the old microtransactions, loot boxes, and “pay-to-win” feel. This is a game built for pure enjoyment and fair progression.
    • Modern Enhancements: The game now runs smoothly on modern systems and monitors, with improved controls, anti-cheat measures, and a commitment to continued technical support.
    • Community-Driven Future: This Early Access phase is a partnership with the community. Players are actively helping to shape the game’s future, with plans to reintroduce all eight original heroes, add native controller support, and bring back the fan-favorite roguelite mode, Ultimate Rampage.

    Ready to Join the Mayhem?

    Whether you’re an original Rampager looking to reclaim your glory or a new player seeking a high-octane dungeon crawler with a fantastic sense of humor, this is the perfect time to jump in. The sheer joy of hacking and slashing your way through procedural dungeons with friends is just as addictive as it was over a decade ago.

    The world needs heroes to end the reign of the evil Lord Dinglepus. Will you answer the call?

    Dungeon Rampage – https://www.gamebreaking.com/

    #DungeonRampage #pcgames #steam #Cultgame #Multiplayer #HackandSlash #RPG #GamebreakingStudios #roguelite #coopgames #games #gaming #gamers #videogames