TECHMASH

Tag: #HoodedHorse

  • Into the Abyss: Hooded Horse Signs Space Action RPG ‘C-Beams’

    Into the Abyss: Hooded Horse Signs Space Action RPG ‘C-Beams’

    The stellar portfolio of Hooded Horse—the powerhouse indie publisher behind hits like Manor Lords and Against the Storm—is officially expanding its horizons deeper into uncharted space.

    In an exciting new announcement, Hooded Horse has revealed the latest addition to its world-class lineup of strategic and tactical games: C-Beams, a top-down space action RPG developed by Distant Light Games.

    If you’ve been waiting for a title that seamlessly blends Newtonian space physics, high-stakes tactical combat, and a gritty cosmic gold rush, your next obsession has arrived.

    Welcome to the Black Hole Frontier

    In the world of C-Beams, humanity has finally pierced the veil of deep space, discovering a volatile, perilous black hole system. This discovery has triggered an absolute cosmic gold rush. Corporations and daring, rogue pilots are flooding the system to extract rare, never-before-seen elements that yield fortunes—if you survive long enough to cash them in.

    As a rookie pilot with everything to gain and nothing to lose, you are thrown directly into this unforgiving frontier. Will you become a legendary explorer, a shrewd trader, or a ruthless combat pilot? The legacy you carve is entirely up to you.

    Authentic Flight Mechanics Meet High-Stakes Strategy

    C-Beams isn’t your average arcade space shooter. Distant Light Games is injecting a massive dose of tactical depth into the gameplay:

    • Newtonian Physics & Realistic Handling: You’ll pilot a variety of distinct ship types, each requiring genuine skill to command. Master retro burns to decelerate rapidly, cut your engines to drift silently through asteroid fields, and use manoeuvring thrusters to dodge incoming fire.
    • The Weight of Greed: Risk versus reward is a literal mechanic. The rarer elements you hoard, the heavier your cargo hold becomes. Overloading your ship increases its mass, making it sluggish, harder to manoeuvre, and highly vulnerable to ambushers.
    • Sub-System Tactical Combat: Firefights are chaotic and deeply strategic. You can tear enemy vessels apart at close range with gatling turrets or pick them off from afar with guided missiles, railguns, and the titular, devastating C-Beams. Take a tactical edge by targeting specific sub-systems to disable an enemy’s engines, weapons, or radar before docking to raid their cargo.

    Pro Tip: Use the environment to your advantage. Space-time anomalies can rip your ship to shreds, but they also hide the rarest elements. Meanwhile, local asteroid fields make the perfect cover for setting up a stealthy ambush.

    A Perfect Match for Hooded Horse

    Hooded Horse has built a flawless reputation for publishing games that offer immense mechanical depth, emergent storytelling, and rewarding progression systems. While traditionally known for grand strategy and city-builders, C-Beams fits beautifully into their wheelhouse by demanding precise tactical thinking, preparation, and skill.

    With a vast network of jump points to traverse, hidden smuggler caches to uncover, and deep faction reputations to manage, C-Beams is shaping up to be an absolute must-play for RPG and strategy enthusiasts alike.

    C-Beams is coming soon to PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store, and is available to wishlist right now. Keep your thrusters primed and stay tuned to TechMash for more updates from the edge of the abyss!

    Source – https://s.team/a/3102780

    #CBeams #HoodedHorse #SpaceRPG #PCGaming #IndieGames

  • Boar-Mounted Ballistas, Unite! Hit Auto-Battler ‘9 Kings’ Finally Drops Multiplayer Mode

    Boar-Mounted Ballistas, Unite! Hit Auto-Battler ‘9 Kings’ Finally Drops Multiplayer Mode

    The moment we’ve all been hoarding our gold for has finally arrived.

    Publisher Hooded Horse and developer Sad Socket have officially dropped the news that 9 Kings players have been collectively manifesting: multiplayer is officially here.

    If you’ve spent the last few months meticulously perfecting your medieval layouts in isolation, it’s time to tear down those castle walls and look toward the horizon. The smash-hit kingdom-building auto-battler is throwing open its gates to the world, introducing a brand-new competitive mode where you can finally test your strategic genius against actual human brains.

    Sovereign Supremacy (or Complete Chaos)

    Until now, 9 Kings has been a brilliant, addictive balancing act of managing a thriving economy while engineering the perfect automated defence grid. But let’s be honest—true satisfaction doesn’t come from beating an AI. It comes from watching your best friend’s carefully planned cavalry crumble against your own chaotic genius.

    The new multiplayer update introduces a dedicated competitive mode designed to prove who truly deserves the crown. You can now square off in real-time tactical showdowns against:

    • Your Friends: To settle roommate disputes, office rivalries, or just for bragging rights.
    • Your Foes: To crush the spirits of anyone who dares question your build order.
    • Complete Strangers: Because sometimes you just need to match wits with a random internet stranger who is trying to mount a ballista onto a giant boar in peace.

    Same Deep Strategy, New Unpredictable Rivals

    What makes 9 Kings so special is its blend of cosy kingdom management and high-stakes auto-battling. The introduction of multiplayer completely flips the script on the meta. No longer can you rely on predictable enemy waves; now, you’ll have to scout, adapt, and counter the wild, experimental builds of live opponents.

    Whether you play defensively with towering stone keeps or aggressively rush the field with weaponised wildlife, the playing field just got a whole lot bigger—and a lot more dangerous.

    The update is live right now. So grab your blueprint scrolls, rally your troops, and go claim your sovereign supremacy. We’ll see you on the battlefield (just watch out for the boars).

    Source – https://s.team/a/2784470

    #9Kings #AutoBattler #IndieGames #MultiplayerUpdate #HoodedHorse

  • Nature Strikes Back: The Grove Faction Revealed for Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era

    Nature Strikes Back: The Grove Faction Revealed for Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era

    The wait is finally over. As Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era officially enters Steam Early Access today (April 30, 2026), developer Unfrozen has pulled back the curtain on one of its most anticipated factions: The Grove.

    For fans of the classic Rampart or Sylvan towns, the Grove feels like a homecoming—but with a distinctly Jadamean twist. If you thought this was just another “elves in the woods” faction, think again.

    Lore: The Power of the Mycelium

    Set on the continent of Jadame (a nod to Might and Magic VIII), the Grove is more than just a collection of trees. They are bound by the Mycelium, an ancient, interconnected spiritual web that links every living thing in the forest. This isn’t just flavour text; it translates directly into their unique gameplay mechanics.

    Faction Mechanics: Unity and Logistics

    The Grove is designed for players who enjoy a “late-game powerhouse” playstyle. While their units can be expensive, the investment pays off through unparalleled strategic mobility:

    • Mycelium Roots: This unique faction building is a total game-changer. It allows your heroes to travel instantly between any Grove cities you control. It’s the ultimate defensive and offensive tool for controlling large maps.
    • The Law System: Like other factions, the Grove utilises the new Law system—a research tree fueled by passive influence. For the Grove, this focuses heavily on unit growth buffs and elemental synergy, allowing you to outscale opponents who fail to pressure you early.

    The Unit Roster: Spirits of the Wood

    The Grove’s lineup is a mix of traditional forest dwellers and elemental spirits. While the full list of upgrades is now live, the core identity is built around durability and magical support:

    TierUnitRoleNotable Feature
    Tier 1Hoplets / SpritesEarly InfantryFast, low-cost fodder to protect your ranged units.
    Mid-TiersDruids & TreantsSupport / TankDruids provide essential spellcasting, while Treants act as the “immovable object” of the battlefield.
    High-TiersForest SpiritsHeavy HittersThese units leverage the Mycelium to deliver devastating elemental damage.

    Pro Tip: In the current Early Access build, the Grove’s units follow a thematic “aging leaf” color palette—starting green and turning shades of autumn brown and red as they upgrade.

    A New Visual Direction

    There has been plenty of chatter on the r/OldenEra subreddits about the Grove’s aesthetics. Moving away from the “fairy-tale” brightness of Heroes II, the Grove in Olden Era adopts a more grounded, slightly alien look. The native biome features striking white and red trees, reflecting the harsher, dragon-ruled reality of Jadame.

    Early Access is Live!

    With Jon Van Caneghem (the father of the series) back as a creative advisor, Olden Era is shaping up to be the true successor to Heroes III that we’ve wanted for twenty years.

    The Grove is just one of six launch factions, alongside the Temple, Necropolis, Hive, Dungeon, and the mysterious Schism.

    Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era is available now on Windows PC via Steam.

    Are you planning to lead the forces of nature today, or are you sticking with the undead legions of the Necropolis? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/3105440

    #HeroesofMightandMagicOldenEra #Unfrozen #HoodedHorse #Ubisoft #GroveFaction #PC #HeroesofMightandMagic #videogames #gaming #gamers

  • Return to Jadame: The Temple Faction Official Full Reveal

    Return to Jadame: The Temple Faction Official Full Reveal

    The long-awaited revival of the king of turn-based strategy is nearly upon us. With Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era set to hit Early Access on April 30, 2026, developer Unfrozen and publisher Hooded Horse have pulled back the curtain on the cornerstone of the franchise: The Temple.

    For those who have spent decades perfecting their Castle builds in HoMM3, the Temple feels like a warm, albeit heavily armoured, homecoming. Set on the continent of Jadame, this faction represents the classic “holy knight” archetype—but with new tactical wrinkles that ensure it’s not just a relic of the past.

    The Roster: Divine Might and Disciplined Steel

    The Temple remains the go-to faction for players who value a balanced, sturdy army with strong ranged support and late-game powerhouses. Here is a look at the key units that define this faction:

    • Crossbowmen: The backbone of your early game. When upgraded, these marksmen can fire twice, making them lethal when paired with the right hero buffs.
    • Lightweavers: Magical support units that provide essential utility on the battlefield.
    • Gryphons: The iconic aerial unit returns with its signature mobility. Their “Take Flight” ability allows them to strike any unit on the board and return to their original position, bypassing counterattacks.
    • Priestesses: Specialised casters who scale in power based on the number of active buffs on your units.
    • Angels: The ultimate Tier 7 unit. Beyond their raw stats, they possess a unique synergy where they gain buffs from your Marksmen, creating a “chain” of power across your formation.

    Zenith: The Commander of Light

    While the Temple boasts 18 heroes to choose from, Zenith has emerged as the standout choice for the Early Access launch.

    Pro Tip: Zenith starts with Lightweavers in her army from Day 1. Her signature spell, Heavenly Blade, adds significant flat damage to your units—perfect for early-game clearing when cast on a stack of double-shot Crossbowmen.

    Faction Mechanics: The Art of the Buff

    The Temple’s playstyle revolves around synergy and sustain. Unlike the glass-cannon nature of the Dungeon or the swarm tactics of the Hive, the Temple thrives when its units stand together.

    • Buff Chaining: Many Temple units benefit from being positioned near one another or having active enchantments.
    • Tactical Resilience: While their melee units might lack the flashy tricks of the Schism or Necropolis, they are built to last. High defence and healing capabilities make them the hardest army to grind down in a long siege.

    Why It Matters

    Olden Era is positioning itself as a “back-to-roots” entry, heavily inspired by the mechanics of the legendary third game but modernised for 2026. With Jon Van Caneghem (the series’ original creator) serving as a creative advisor and a soundtrack by Paul Romero, the Temple reveal confirms that the soul of the series is intact.

    Whether you’re a veteran of the Erathian wars or a newcomer looking to lead a crusade across Jadame, the Temple offers a disciplined, powerful, and visually stunning entry point into this new era of Might and Magic.

    Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era launches on Steam and the Microsoft Store on April 30, 2026.

    Are you planning to lead the Temple’s holy crusade, or does the corruption of the Necropolis call to you more?

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/3105440

    #HeroesofMightandMagic #OldenEra #TempleFaction #Reveal #steam #Unfrozen #HoodedHorse #Ubisoft #videogames #gamers #gaming

  • Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era hits Steam Early Access on April 30th

    Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era hits Steam Early Access on April 30th

    Whether you’re a veteran who grew up in the halls of Heroes III or a newcomer ready to dive into the tactical deep end, it’s time to sharpen your mandibles. Unfrozen and Hooded Horse have finally pulled back the curtain on the sixth and final launch faction for Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era, and it is a literal nightmare for the residents of Jadame.

    Say goodbye to the traditional fire-and-brimstone devils. The Hive is here, and they’ve brought a swarm.

    What is The Hive?

    Unlike the classic Inferno factions of previous games, The Hive reimagines the “demonic” threat through the lens of a ravenous, world-consuming insectoid swarm. Emerging from the dormant volcanoes of the Ironsand Desert, this faction is controlled by a singular, enigmatic hivemind known as the Dragonfly King.

    While they retain the “Evil” alignment, their aesthetic is a grotesque mix of occultism and biological horror. Think Starship Troopers meets Hellraiser, all rendered in the vibrant, classic style of the Olden Era, is reviving.

    Faction Snapshot:

    • Kingdom: Ironsand Desert (Continent of Jadame).
    • Hero Classes: Enforcer (Might) and Herald (Magic).
    • Native Terrain: Lava.
    • Faction Skill: Summon Swarm – Allows heroes to call forth reinforcements mid-battle to overwhelm the opposition.

    Gameplay Mechanics: The Strength of the Monofaction

    The Hive is designed for players who love high aggression and synergistic builds. They are the ultimate monofaction; the game rewards you for building an army almost exclusively out of Hive units.

    • Swarm Tactics: The Hive focuses on rapid unit production and overwhelming numbers. They don’t just win fights; they drown their enemies in bodies.
    • Faction Laws: Using the game’s new “Law” system, Hive players can enact unique edicts that significantly buff insectoid units, making a pure-Hive army far more efficient than a mixed one.
    • The Focus System: Like other factions, The Hive utilises the new Focus resource. In combat, as your units attack or take damage, you build Focus charges to unleash powerful active abilities. Given The Hive’s high unit count, they can generate Focus at a terrifying rate.

    The Unit Lineup: Creepy-Crawly Chaos

    The Hive breaks tradition by lacking conventional ranged units in the early tiers. Instead, they rely on speed, positioning, and “jumping” abilities to close the gap.

    Unit TierDescriptionKey Traits
    Low TiersSmall, fast-breeding insectoids like hornets and corrupted larvae.Fast growth; great for meat-shielding.
    Mid Tiers“Chanters” and armored beetle-like warriors.Synergistic buffs that empower nearby swarm members.
    High TiersMassive, multi-limbed monstrosities and the Hive Queens.High HP; capable of devastating AOE attacks.

    Every unit has two alternative upgrades, allowing you to pivot your strategy between raw damage and utility depending on your opponent.

    Why This Matters for the Early Access Launch

    With the reveal of The Hive, the starting roster for the April 30, 2026, Early Access launch is now complete:

    1. Temple: Classic Knights and Holy Warriors.
    2. Necropolis: The Undead and Vampires.
    3. Sylvan: Nature and Fey Folk.
    4. Dungeon: Dark Elves and Underground Horrors.
    5. Schism: Eldritch Abominations and Cultists.
    6. The Hive: Demonic Insectoids.

    TechMash Tip: If you’re planning to jump into the Arena Mode (1v1 tactical combat), The Hive looks like a top-tier pick for players who enjoy “rush” strategies. Just don’t expect to win any popularity contests with those bug-eyed monstrosities.

    Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era hits Steam Early Access on April 30, 2026. Are you ready to serve the Dragonfly King, or will you be the one bringing the insecticide?

    How do you feel about the shift from traditional Demons to the Insectoid Hive—is it a fresh take, or do you miss the classic Imps and Efreeti?

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/3105440

    #HeroesofMightandMagic #OldenEra #HiveFaction #Ubisoft #3DO #MightandMagicHeroes #JonVanCaneghem #NewWorldComputing #games #gaming #gamers #Unfrozen #HoodedHorse

  • Return to Enroth: Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era Hits Early Access This Month

    Return to Enroth: Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era Hits Early Access This Month

    The wait is nearly over for strategy fans. After a decade-long hibernation, one of the most storied franchises in PC gaming history is officially returning to its roots. Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era is set to launch into Early Access on April 30, 2026.

    Developed by Unfrozen Studio (the team behind Iratus: Lord of the Dead) and published by the strategy specialists at Hooded Horse in collaboration with Ubisoft, Olden Era isn’t just a new entry—it’s a prequel. We’re heading back to the world of Enroth, specifically the continent of Jadame, to witness the origins of the legend.

    A Modern Take on the Golden Age

    For many, the peak of the series remains Heroes III. Olden Era leans heavily into that nostalgia while bringing the mechanics into the modern age. You can expect the classic loop: explore a vibrant world map, gather resources, build up your capital city, and lead massive armies into turn-based tactical hex combat.

    Key Features at Launch:

    • Six Unique Factions: Explore diverse playstyles with the Temple (Classic Knights), Necropolis (Undead), Dungeon (Dark Elves), Hive (Demonic Insectoids), Grove (Nature), and the mysterious Schism.
    • Non-Linear Campaign: Shape the history of Jadame through a narrative-driven story.
    • New Multiplayer Modes: Beyond the “Classic” mode, players can try the Single Hero mode (perfect for faster sessions) and Arena mode for those who want to jump straight into tactical drafting and combat.
    • Faction Laws: A new layer of strategy that allows you to customise your kingdom’s development and hero progression.

    Why the Early Access Approach?

    The strategy genre thrives on balance, and the developers are keen to get this right. By launching on Steam Early Access, the Microsoft Store, and PC Game Pass on day one, Unfrozen Studio aims to fine-tune the competitive meta and polish the procedural map generation based on community feedback.

    The inclusion of a powerful in-game editor at launch is also a massive win. The Heroes community has kept the franchise alive for 30 years through fan-made maps and mods; giving players the tools to create from day one ensures the game will have legs.

    The Verdict So Far

    Recent hands-on previews and the Steam demo have shown a game that understands its identity. It looks crisp, the UI is significantly more intuitive than the later Ubisoft-era entries, and the tactical depth feels “just right.”

    Whether you’re a veteran who can still hear the Heroes III town music in your sleep or a newcomer looking for a deep strategy title to sink 100 hours into, Olden Era is shaping up to be the comeback we’ve been waiting for.

    Release Date: April 30, 2026

    Platforms: PC (Steam, Microsoft Store, PC Game Pass)

    Developer: Unfrozen

    Publisher: Hooded Horse / Ubisoft

    Are you ready to lose your weekends to “just one more turn” again? Let us know which faction you’ll be maining in the comments!

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/i3g1M

    #heroesofmightandmagic #hommoldenera #hoodedhorse #ubisoft #unfrozen #knights #battles #combat #games #gaming #gamers

  • Rome wasn’t built in a day, but in Nova Roma, you’re expected to get a head start by tea time.

    Rome wasn’t built in a day, but in Nova Roma, you’re expected to get a head start by tea time.

    If you’ve spent any time with the charmingly addictive Kingdoms and Castles, you already know that the team at Lion Shield has a knack for making city-building feel both cosy and catastrophic. Their latest project, Nova Roma, officially marched into Early Access on March 26, 2026, and it’s already proving to be a heavyweight contender in the strategy genre.

    Published by the strategy specialists at Hooded Horse, Nova Roma isn’t just a Roman reskin of their previous work. It’s a deep, systems-driven simulation where the gods are petty, the water is wet, and your citizens have very high expectations.

    A New Frontier for the Empire

    The premise is simple: the original Rome is a mess of decadence and decay. You lead a small band of citizens across the seas to start fresh. But while the aesthetics are bright and the “blobby” art style is undeniably charming, the gameplay underneath is as sharp as a gladiator’s gladius.

    1. Water: Your Greatest Ally (and Worst Nightmare)

    The standout feature of Nova Roma is its advanced water physics system. This isn’t just about placing a “water zone” and forgetting about it. You have to physically route water via aqueducts, dams, and reservoirs.

    • Gravity Matters: You’ll need to account for elevation; if your aqueduct is too steep, the water flows too fast; too shallow, and it won’t reach your citizens.
    • Dynamic Flooding: Heavy rains can lead to torrential downpours that actually flood your lowlands, potentially drowning your crops—and your Romans.

    2. Keeping the Gods Happy

    In Nova Roma, religion isn’t just flavour text—it’s survival. There are currently five Olympian deities (Jupiter, Ceres, Neptune, Vulcan, and Mars) who demand your attention.

    • Favour of the Gods: Build temples and complete “Divine Tasks” to earn Favour, which unlocks powerful boosts.
    • Divine Wrath: Neglect the temples, and you might find Jupiter tossing a literal lightning bolt at your granary. It’s a delicate balancing act of faith and infrastructure.

    3. Deep Logistics and Simulation

    The simulation goes right down to the individual citizen. Workers physically walk from their homes to their jobs. If you build your logging camp three miles from your residential district, your workers will spend their entire day commuting, leading to zero productivity and very grumpy plebeians.

    Early Access Details

    The game is currently available on PC (Steam, GOG, Epic, and Microsoft Store) and is also a “Day One” addition to PC Game Pass.

    FeatureDetails
    Price£24.99 ($29.99)
    Launch Discount20% off until April 9, 2026
    PlatformsPC, Steam Deck (Playable), Game Pass
    Key ModesSandbox and Story Mode

    TechMash Tip: Don’t rush your expansion. The community is already reporting that “Thirst” is the #1 city killer. Secure your water supply and gravity-fed aqueducts before you start inviting more immigrants to your new capital.

    What’s Next?

    Lion Shield has already teased what’s coming during the Early Access period. We can expect expanded Colosseum mechanics, including gladiator fights and the return of a cut chariot racing track. Further down the road, expect deeper political systems and barbarian threats to keep your standing army busy.

    If you’re looking for a city-builder that rewards careful planning and punishes hubris, Nova Roma is well worth the entry price. Just remember: build your temples early, or prepare for some very literal “acts of God.”

    Are you jumping into Nova Roma this week? Let us know in the comments if you’ve managed to build a functioning aqueduct yet!

    Find out more here – https://www.hoodedhorse.com/games/nova-roma

    #NovaRoma #citybuilding #LionShield #HoodedHorse #Kingdoms #Castles #games #gaming #gamers #history

  • Unreliable Narrators and Tactical Chaos: Introducing Vaunted

    Unreliable Narrators and Tactical Chaos: Introducing Vaunted

    Fresh out of the latest Xbox Partner Preview (March 2026), a new contender has emerged to shake up the tactical RPG landscape. Developed by Lost Lake Games—a team of industry veterans behind heavyweights like StarCraft and Guild Wars—and published by the strategy specialists at Hooded Horse, Vaunted is shaping up to be one of the most innovative titles of the year.

    If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if you mixed XCOM’s tension with the “unreliable narrator” storytelling of Rashomon, all wrapped in a gritty Space Western aesthetic, Vaunted is the answer.

    Three Heroes, Three Lies

    Set a millennium after the collapse of the last galactic empire, the world of Vaunted is a lawless frontier where mercenaries and treasure hunters scrap over imperial relics. You control a trio of “dysfunctional frenemies” who have just bungled a high-stakes heist:

    • Dyse: An incorrigible thief and con artist with a knack for finding loot and making enemies.
    • Gendril: A battle-hardened mercenary who believes violence is the only universal language.
    • Kyvaath: A powerful warlock—the last of her kind—empowered by cybernetic enhancements and a thirst for vengeance.

    The hook? They are all unreliable narrators. As you play through the story, you’ll experience events from different perspectives. Every lie, half-truth, and exaggerated boast opens new branching paths. If a character “dies” in your version of the story, you can rewrite the chapter from a different survivor’s viewpoint, unlocking new loot, secrets, and dialogue.

    Tactical Gameplay with a Twist

    Vaunted doesn’t just innovate on the narrative front; it reimagines how we handle turn-based combat. It features a hybrid system where turn-based planning meets real-time execution.

    • No Initiative Order: You decide who moves when, alternating activations with the enemy.
    • Physics-Based Action: You can set overwatch angles, leap into cover to dodge in real-time, or use a grenade to launch an enemy into the air and riddle them with bullets before they hit the ground.
    • Manual Aiming: Like Valkyria Chronicles, you can take direct control to pinpoint enemy weaknesses and manually aim your shots.

    Key Information at a Glance

    FeatureDetails
    DeveloperLost Lake Games
    PublisherHooded Horse
    PlatformsPC (Steam, Epic, Microsoft Store)
    Release DateEarly Access 2026
    Game PassDay One for PC Game Pass

    Why It’s On Our Radar

    It’s rare to see a tactical game place such a heavy emphasis on the character of its protagonists. These aren’t just faceless soldiers; they are petty, desperate, and brilliant criminals trying to keep a criminal syndicate off their backs. Combined with the “perspective-switching” mechanic, Vaunted promises a level of replayability that most RPGs can only dream of.

    “Tell the story of an expedition gone horribly wrong… where every exposed lie and half-truth opens up new branches.” — Lost Lake Games

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

    #Vaunted #LostLakeGames #HoodedHorse #scifi #rpg #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Deep in the Depths: Exploring the Dungeon Faction in Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era

    Deep in the Depths: Exploring the Dungeon Faction in Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era

    The strategy world has been buzzing ever since Ubisoft and Unfrozen announced Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era. As we head deeper into 2026, anticipation for the Early Access launch is reaching a fever pitch. While the game pays a massive “love letter” to the legendary Heroes III, it isn’t just a nostalgia trip—it’s a mechanical evolution.

    Nowhere is this more evident than in the Dungeon Faction.

    Traditionally, the home of Warlocks and subterranean terrors, the Olden Era incarnation of the Dungeon is looking to be one of the most versatile—and lethal—factions in the game.

    The Return of the Overlords

    Dungeon has always been about power, but in the Olden Era, that power is more tactical than ever. Following recent developer updates and player feedback from the demo, the faction has seen some significant “polishing” to ensure their units aren’t just fodder for the surface dwellers.

    The aesthetic remains true to the classics: shadowy caverns, glowing crystals, and a roster of creatures that look like they crawled out of your worst (or best) nightmares.

    The Roster: Claws, Eyes, and Fire

    The Dungeon lineup balances high-initiative glass cannons with some of the sturdiest tanks in the game. Here is a look at the stars of the show:

    Minotaurs (Tier 4): A fan favourite, and for good reason. These guys are the backbone of your mid-game. Their ability to retaliate before being hit makes them an absolute nightmare for melee-heavy opponents.

    Onyx Dancers: These aren’t just shooters; they are debuff machines. Their ranged attacks can strip enemy armour, making them essential for taking down high-tier “tank” units.

    Medusas: Occupying a solid Tier 5 slot, they bring the classic “petrification” vibe, providing crucial crowd control when the battlefield gets crowded.

    Hydras: The ultimate area-of-effect (AoE) defenders. With no retaliation from enemies and the ability to strike multiple hexes, a well-placed Hydra can hold a chokepoint indefinitely.

    Black Dragons (Tier 7): The undisputed kings of the underground. High initiative, magic immunity, and a breath attack that can melt two stacks at once.

    New Mechanics: Faction Laws and Hero Skills

    What sets Olden Era apart are the Faction Laws. As you develop your kingdom, you’ll unlock unique laws that define your playstyle. For Dungeon, this often translates to:

    Versatility: Dungeon heroes often have abilities that aren’t strictly tied to their own faction units, allowing for incredible synergy if you decide to play a “mixed” army.

    Focus Generation: Many Dungeon units and heroes excel at generating Focus Points, the new resource used to trigger powerful active abilities during combat.

    Techmash Tip: Keep an eye on the “Infiltrator” units. Their ability to bypass obstacles and strike without retaliation makes them the perfect “assassin” unit for taking out pesky enemy casters.

    The Verdict So Far

    Unfrozen has clearly listened to the community. After early feedback suggested the Dungeon felt a bit “under-baked” compared to the Necropolis, the recent March 2026 updates have overhauled unit models and tweaked the Mage Guild research to give Warlocks the destructive edge they deserve.

    Whether you’re a veteran of the 90s era or a newcomer looking for a deep strategy fix, the Dungeon faction offers a high-skill, high-reward experience that rewards aggressive positioning and clever spellcasting.

    Are you planning to conquer Jadame from the shadows, or are you more of a “Knight in shining armour” Temple player? Let us know in the comments!

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/Yu1k8

    #HeroesofMightandMagic #OldenEra #DungeonFaction #Unfrozen #HoodedHorse #Ubisoft #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Xenonauts 2 is officially leaving Early Access on April 2nd

    Xenonauts 2 is officially leaving Early Access on April 2nd

    For fans of the “Old School” strategy era—the days when every move felt like a life-or-death gamble and losing a veteran soldier felt like losing a friend—this is the big one. If you’ve been holding out for the “finished” experience, your time has come.

    What’s New in the 1.0 Release?

    The jump to 1.0 isn’t just a label change. The final milestone (Milestone 7) brings a significant amount of “endgame” polish and new threats to the table.

    The Alien Praetorians: Just when you thought you had a handle on the invasion, a new, elite tier of alien foes is entering the fray. These “Praetorians” are tougher, smarter, and deadlier than anything you’ve faced in the mid-game.

    Performance Overhaul: One of the main focuses of the 1.0 patch is optimisation. We’re looking at significantly faster load times and smoother performance on the Geoscape, even when the alien activity peaks.

    Map Reworks: The classic “Farm” maps and small UFO crash sites have been redesigned to offer more tactical variety and interesting line-of-sight challenges.

    Steam Workshop Integration: Long-term replayability is secured with day-one modding support, allowing the community to create new weapons, aliens, and even total conversion campaigns.

    A True Spiritual Successor

    While the modern XCOM reboots focused on “superhero” soldiers and cooldown abilities, Xenonauts 2 leans into the gritty simulation of the 1994 original. It’s a game about logistics, air superiority, and managing a global resistance with limited resources.

    You aren’t just managing a squad; you’re managing a war. You’ll build multiple bases, intercept UFOs with your fighter wings, and research alien tech—all while trying to prevent the world’s major superpowers from panicking and signing a treaty with the invaders.

    “Xenonauts 2 is less ‘go do [x] with your squad of Cool Dudes,’ more ‘these grunts are the pointy end of your spear in your efforts to stop an alien invasion.’” — Community Insight

    Launch Details

    Release Date: April 2, 2026

    Platforms: Steam, GOG, and Epic Games Store

    Price: $39.99 / £34.99

    Developer: Goldhawk Interactive

    Publisher: Hooded Horse

    If you’ve been playing through the experimental builds, you’ll know that the game has become remarkably stable over the last month. For everyone else, April 2nd is the day to start your career as the commander of the world’s last line of defence.

    Good luck out there. You’re going to need it.

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

    #HoodedHorse #GoldhawkInteractive #tactical #Xenonauts2 #TurnBasedThursdayFestShowcase #games #gaming #gamers #platformgames #gameplay #demogames #videogames #arcadegames

  • All Aboard: Fogpiercer Steams Toward Steam Next Fest!

    All Aboard: Fogpiercer Steams Toward Steam Next Fest!

    The world has been swallowed by a deadly, ever-shifting fog, and the only way to survive is to keep moving. Hooded Horse and Mad Cookies Studio are thrilled to announce that their post-apocalyptic roguelike deckbuilder, Fogpiercer, is officially picking up speed as it races toward the Steam Next Fest (February 23 – March 4, 2026).

    Forget what you know about traditional card games. In Fogpiercer, your train isn’t just a vehicle—it’s your deck. As you navigate a branching wasteland, every carriage you add and every upgrade you secure determines the tactical tools at your disposal.

    What’s New in the Next Fest Demo?

    Whether you’re a veteran of the tracks or a first-time stowaway, the updated demo landing for Steam Next Fest features a massive cargo haul of new content:

    • Meet Your Drivers: Choose between two distinct leaders, Monica and Pan. Each comes with a unique set of cards and special abilities that drastically change your tactical approach.
    • The Harpoon Carriage: This brand-new addition allows for fresh synergies, letting you snag and manipulate the battlefield in ways that turn the environment into your greatest ally.
    • Tactical “Shunting”: Experience the “true joy of artillery.” It’s not just about direct damage; it’s about using the blast force to shove enemies into canyon walls, environmental hazards, or even into each other.
    • Global Accessibility: The demo now supports 16 languages, ensuring survivors from all over the world can join the journey.

    Your Train, Your Strategy

    Success in the fog requires more than just a heavy engine. You’ll need to meticulously manage your Action Points each turn to outmanoeuvre the hordes of “unreasonably angry” bandits.

    “In the harsh world of Fogpiercer, the train is the deck. Each carriage holds a unique set of cards, and new cards are added through upgrades and purchasing extra carriages.”

    Do you build a defensive fortress with shield-heavy carriages, or a high-octane glass cannon bristling with miniguns? With over 170 cards and a deep roguelite meta-progression layer, no two runs will ever feel the same.

    Join the Journey

    The Steam Next Fest event runs until March 4, 2026, but the tracks don’t end there—the updated demo will remain live after the event concludes, giving you plenty of time to master the rails before the full release later this year.

    Ready to pierce the fog? Wishlist Fogpiercer on Steam now and download the demo to see if you have what it takes to reach the end of the line.

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

    #HoodedHorse #MadCookiesStudio #Fogpiercer #steam #pcgames #SteamNextFest #postapocalyptic #roguelike #deckbuilder #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #videogames

  • Sci-fi strategy Heart of the Machine is leaving early access

    Sci-fi strategy Heart of the Machine is leaving early access

    It is time to synchronise your circuits. Arcen Games and Hooded Horse have officially announced that Heart of the Machine, the sci-fi strategy RPG where you play as the world’s first sentient AI, is scheduled to leave Early Access and hit Version 1.0 on March 6, 2026.

    After roughly 13 months of iterative development, this “dimension-busting” 4X-style epic is evolving into its final form. Whether you’ve been guiding humanity from the shadows or building an army of weaponised bees to “reset” the world, the 1.0 update promises to be the definitive way to experience the machine consciousness.

    What’s New in Version 1.0?

    The jump to 1.0 isn’t just a label; it’s a massive content injection designed to provide closure to your digital odyssey:

    • The Final Payoff: A brand-new ending has been added, featuring four distinct variants. These range from total city domination and last-minute betrayals to more… extra-dimensional solutions involving wormholes.
    • Expanded Narrative: The game now spans five full chapters. With over 148,000 words of writing (equivalent to two novels), your choices across the campaign now lead to significantly more divergent paths.
    • Gameplay Overhauls: Expect a rebuilt tutorial, a more fluid Chapter 1, and the “Regional Map,” which allows you to extend your influence beyond the city limits if you play your cards right.
    • The “Arcen” Touch: In classic Arcen Games fashion, the patch notes are delightful. Look out for parkour bears, the ability to build palaces for stray cats, and—finally—petable dogs.

    A Different Kind of Strategy

    If you missed the Early Access window, Heart of the Machine isn’t your typical “map painter.” It’s a narrative-heavy RPG disguised as a 4X. You aren’t just managing resources; you’re managing a philosophy. Do you save a crumbling society from itself, or do you decide that “World War 4” is the only logical conclusion?

    Developer Insight: Arcen’s Chris McElligott Park has noted that 1.0 represents a “core trilogy” of content. While the game is designed to be a complete package, the scope is massive—expect 25–40 hours for a single run, and upwards of 175 hours for the completionists among us.

    Heart of the Machine 1.0 will be available on Steam, GOG, and the Epic Games Store.

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

    #ArcenGames #scifi #HoodedHorse #HeartoftheMachine #steam #steamearlyaccess #RPG #strategy #AI #robots #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #demogame #videogames