TECHMASH

Tag: #IndieGames

  • Forget Cosy Games: Comrade Bear Undermines The Motherland is a Satirical, Aggressive Rebellion on Steam

    Forget Cosy Games: Comrade Bear Undermines The Motherland is a Satirical, Aggressive Rebellion on Steam

    If you’ve been feeling a bit fatigued by the endless wave of cosy, pastel-hued farming simulators dominating the indie scene lately, developer Indifferent Penguin has exactly what you need.

    Announced with a striking exclusive trailer on IGN, Comrade Bear Undermines The Motherland is a chaotic, unapologetically aggressive, and satirical roguelike action-miner that aims a heavy artillery shell directly at reality.

    Check out everything we know so far about this brilliant mashup of mechanics and political satire.

    The Pitch: Dome Keeper Meets FTL (With a Dash of Revolution)

    In Comrade Bear Undermines The Motherland, you play as an anthropomorphic bear who finds himself as the sole survivor of a sunken submarine. Betrayed and left for dead by a corrupt regime, you aren’t going to lie down and take it. Instead, you are going to survive, rebuild, and make them pay.

    The gameplay loop balances intensive logistics with high-stakes panic management:

    • Deep-Sea Excavation: Dig through the seabed to secure vital resources, manage weight mechanics, and construct intricate paths using ladders, platforms, and automated transit systems.
    • Submarine Engineering: Transform your rusty wreck into an interconnected underwater fortress. You will need to wire rooms, manage power flow, and upgrade systems to keep your ship moving.
    • Strategic Combat: This isn’t a twitch-reflex shooter. Defence relies on tactical decision-making. You will use your sonar to prioritise incoming threats—including waves of corrupt military fleets and gigantic, terrifying krakens—while directing your automated defences to open fire.

    “I didn’t want to make another cozy-game to escape reality; I wanted to provide a place to give vent to real-world frustrations.” > — Indifferent Penguin, Developer

    A Bite of Sharp Satire

    The game takes an unapologetic nod to the sinking of the Kursk and the grim political realities of modern history. Rather than pulling its punches, Comrade Bear leans heavily into its premise: you are actively mining for vengeance with the ultimate goal of blowing the Kremlin sky-high.

    The aesthetic beautifully marries a gritty, high-stakes atmosphere with dark, absurd humour, making it a highly anticipated therapeutic release for players looking to channel real-world frustrations into a genuinely fun, strategic loop.

    When Can You Play?

    Comrade Bear Undermines The Motherland is slated for a PC release via Steam. While an official release date hasn’t been set in stone yet, the announcement trailer is live, and the Steam store page is officially open for wishlisting.

    If you love the base-building anxiety of Dome Keeper, the crisis control of FTL: Faster Than Light, and the creative structural freedom of Terraria, this is absolutely one indie project to keep on your radar.

    What do you think of Comrade Bear’s rebellion? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #ComradeBear #IndifferentPenguin #IndieGames #GamingNews #SteamGames #Roguelike #DomeKeeper #FTL #PCGaming #TechMash

  • Drop, Rotate, and Relax: Why Cosy Grid-Puzzler ‘Tegelfall’ is Our Newest Indie Obsession

    Drop, Rotate, and Relax: Why Cosy Grid-Puzzler ‘Tegelfall’ is Our Newest Indie Obsession

    If your favourite way to unwind involves clean lines, geometric order, and the deeply satisfying click of a puzzle piece falling perfectly into place, you’re going to want to put this on your radar.

    Out of Stockholm, Sweden, solo developer Jan Mellström—operating under the banner of Mellström Studio—has officially pulled back the curtain on Tegelfall, a cosy yet strategic puzzle game that promises to scratch that exact itch.

    If you spent hours losing yourself to the rhythmic, grid-filling flow of Chime Sharp or the timeless, high-stakes geometry of Tetris, Tegelfall is shaping up to be your next digital sanctuary.

    The Art of the Perfect Fit

    For casual players and hardcore puzzle enthusiasts alike, there is an almost therapeutic joy in organising chaos. Tegelfall leans heavily into this feeling. The game tasks players with filling out a grid using distinct geometric shapes, but replaces the frantic stress of traditional arcade falling-block games with a more deliberate, cosy atmosphere.

    What makes this project particularly exciting is the pedigree behind it. Jan Mellström isn’t just an indie dev with a dream; he’s a senior frontend developer bringing a sharp eye for clean UI, buttery-smooth interactions, and minimalist aesthetic design to the gaming space. When a master of web layout and user experience turns their attention to grid-based mechanics, you can usually expect something incredibly polished and highly intuitive.

    Cosy Vibes Meet Deep Strategy

    While the presentation feels relaxed, don’t let the “cosy” label fool you into thinking it’s a mind-numbing experience. Just like its spiritual ancestors, Tegelfall balances a zen-like flow state with genuine strategic depth. It’s the kind of game perfect for a rainy afternoon, a quick coffee break, or a late-night wind-down session where you just want “one more round.”

    Solo-developed projects often carry a level of passion and singular vision that massive studio games miss, and Mellström Studio seems to be nailing that signature indie charm right out of the gate.

    No official release date has been locked in just yet, but we will absolutely be tracking this one as it develops. Stay tuned to TechMash for future updates, gameplay deep-dives, and hands-on impressions as they drop.

    What’s your go-to puzzle game when you just need to turn your brain off and relax? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #Tegelfall #MellströmStudio #IndieGames #CozyGaming #PuzzleGames #GamingNews #PCGaming #TechMash

  • Uncover the Mystery: Dimhaven – The Lost Source Is Out Now on Steam!

    Uncover the Mystery: Dimhaven – The Lost Source Is Out Now on Steam!

    Puzzle and adventure fans, your next obsession has officially arrived. Developer Zadbox Entertainment and indie publisher Blue Brain Games (the brilliant minds behind Quern – Undying Thoughts) have officially launched their highly anticipated first-person mystery adventure, Dimhaven – The Lost Source, on Steam.

    If you’ve been waiting for a game that respects your intelligence, tests your wits, and wraps it all up in a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere, this is the one to grab this week.

    The Mystery of Dimhaven Island

    In Dimhaven – The Lost Source, you step into the shoes of Emily Ravenstone as she travels to the remote, mist-shrouded island of Dimhaven to investigate the sudden disappearance of her uncle.

    What she finds is a hauntingly nostalgic, abandoned tourist paradise shaped by retro European architecture. It’s a world that feels both familiar and deeply unsettling, filled with interconnected, complex puzzles, hidden mechanisms, and dark secrets waiting to be pieced together.

    Why 90,000+ Players Are Already Hooked

    The hype for this indie gem is incredibly real. Ahead of its launch, Dimhaven – The Lost Source racked up over 90,000 wishlists globally. Now that it’s finally in the hands of the public, players and content creators alike are pouring in with praise.

    While the striking visuals and clever level design are getting plenty of love, one standout mechanic is stealing the spotlight: the unique in-game notebook feature.

    Why the Notebook is a Game-Changer: Instead of forcing you to scramble for a real-world pen and paper or desperately trying to memorize complex symbols, Dimhaven equips you with an essential in-game camera and notebook tool. You can capture important details, log physical discoveries, and organize your clues fluidly within the UI. It perfectly simulates the feeling of being a true detective without breaking your immersion.

    Key Features at a Glance

    • From the Creators of Quern: Expect the same masterful puzzle-design philosophy that made Quern a cult favourite.
    • Atmospheric Retro-European World: Explore gorgeous, eerie landscapes, forgotten interiors, and abandoned tourist spots.
    • Deep Investigative Elements: Sift through lore, documents, and environmental storytelling to uncover what really happened to the island’s residents.
    • Immersion-Focused UI: Use the camera and interactive notebook to naturally track your progress and solve complex riddles.

    Grab It Now with a Launch Discount!

    To celebrate the release, Dimhaven – The Lost Source is currently available on Steam with a 15% launch discount. If you’re ready to pick up your camera, put on your detective hat, and get lost in a brilliant new mystery, head over to Steam and check it out today.

    Have you started exploring Dimhaven yet? What do you think of the in-game notebook feature? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #Dimhaven #TheLostSource #ZadboxEntertainment #BlueBrainGames #IndieGames #SteamReleases #GamingNews #PuzzleGames #AdventureGames #TechMash

  • Helmet On, Visor Down: LANESPLIT Drops Massive Free Update and Full Steam VR Support!

    Helmet On, Visor Down: LANESPLIT Drops Massive Free Update and Full Steam VR Support!

    If you’ve ever wanted to experience the white-knuckle adrenaline rush of weaving through deadlocked traffic on a superbike—without, you know, the actual real-world peril—then solo developer FunkyMouse (Shakya Ranatunga) has just delivered your ultimate fix.

    The critically acclaimed traffic-weaving motorcycle racing simulator, LANESPLIT, has officially accelerated into the virtual reality realm. Announced at the VR Games Showcase, the game has dropped a massive, game-changing free content update alongside full PC via Steam VR support.

    Grab your virtual handlebars, because this indie hit just took immersion to a whole new level.

    Strap into the Virtual Saddle

    LANESPLIT has always been praised for its flow-state gameplay, but experiencing it in true first-person VR completely alters the playing field. With traffic whizzing past your peripheral vision at breakneck speeds, the sense of velocity is utterly intoxicating.

    The formula remains beautifully intense: dodge traffic, rack up points for tight lane-splitting manoeuvres, and don’t crash. Because if you do? The heart-pounding drum-and-bass soundtrack screeches to a violent halt, and the game’s realistic ragdoll physics will send your rider flying.

    What’s New in the Free Content Update?

    FunkyMouse isn’t just delivering VR support; the base game is receiving an incredible injection of free content for all players:

    • A Beefed-Up Garage: The roster has expanded to high-performance machines, including two brand-new electric bikes that feature their own entirely distinct acceleration curves, traction, and handling characteristics.
    • Ride as the Legends: The update introduces a fresh cast of playable characters modelled after real-world motorcycle icons and POV content creators, including Brian636, CyborgAngel, and GhostRider.
    • Dynamic, Slick Weather: Think you’ve mastered the roads? The addition of Thunderstorms will turn bone-dry highways into treacherous, suddenly slick asphalt, forcing you to feather the throttle to survive.
    • Modes for Every Mood: Test your ultimate reflexes in the chaotic Rush Hour mode, or simply cruise empty, beautiful highways in the beautifully relaxed Zen Mode.

    “Motorcycle POV videos from Brian636, CyborgAngel, and GhostRider were a huge inspiration for this content update,” says solo developer Shakya Ranatunga. “While the first-person camera angle already lends itself to flow-state gameplay, VR takes the riding experience to another level.”

    Play Solo or Dominate the Leaderboards

    Whether you want to tackle the highways alone, customise your custom rider, or burn rubber in multiplayer against friends, the new LANESPLIT update delivers the definitive urban racing experience.

    The update is out now on PC. If you own the base game on Steam, the VR functionality and content drop are completely free.

    Are you brave enough to split the lane in VR? Head over to Steam and let us know your high scores in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #LANESPLIT #VRGaming #SteamVR #IndieGames #SoloDev #MotorcycleSim #FunkyMouse #RacingGames #TechMash

  • Shiro Games Unveils ‘The Nightling Invasion’: First Major Update Preview For Fantasy ARPG Farever Is Live!

    Shiro Games Unveils ‘The Nightling Invasion’: First Major Update Preview For Fantasy ARPG Farever Is Live!

    The team at Shiro Games (the brilliant minds behind Northgard and Wartales) has just thrown open the gates to the first massive update for their open-world multiplayer action RPG, Farever.

    Currently making waves in Steam Early Access, the expansive fantasy realm of Siagarta is about to get a lot bigger—and a whole lot more dangerous. Titled The Nightling Invasion, this major milestone is officially available to preview today via an open beta phase, ahead of its full, free launch for all players at a later date.

    If you’ve been looking for an excuse to dive back into its gorgeous vistas or want to join the fray for the first time, here is everything you need to know about the invasion.

    Face the Forces of Niflel in Demonic Rifts

    The core of The Nightling Invasion introduces a dark new threat to the world. Mysterious portals known as Rifts are tearing through the landscapes of Siagarta, linking the realm to the wicked underworld of Niflel.

    Brave adventurers who choose to step through the veil will face escalating waves of demonic entities. This isn’t a solo suicide mission, either—the update introduces massive, replayable world events where up to 15 players can band together in a single instance to challenge minor, major, and primordial terrors.

    The Spoils of War: Overcoming these hellish encounters rewards players with Demonic Souls, a new currency that can be traded for exclusive high-tier loot, including unique mounts, powerful weapons, rare runes, and hidden treasures.

    Breach the Gates of Ramburg

    Looking for new lands to conquer? The update officially unlocks Ramburg, the imposing stronghold of the Crimson Rams faction.

    Players will be able to navigate the treacherous streets of the Lower City, fight past zealous monks, soldiers, and inquisitors, and traverse the rooftops to uncover the dark secrets surrounding the feared High Inquisitor Chakram. Ramburg also introduces:

    • Two Brand-New Dungeons: Tailor-made to test your class builds and co-op synergies.
    • A Towering Cathedral: A focal point for exploration and deep lore discovery.

    Increased Level Cap & Steam Summer Sale Discount

    To help players cope with the demonic spike in difficulty, Shiro Games is raising the character level cap to 25. Alongside the extra levels, you can expect a fresh influx of new quests, valuable armour sets, activities, and Steam achievements to hunt down.

    According to Quentin Lapeyre, Game Director at Shiro Games:

    “The Nightling Invasion major update introduces a new city, world events, dungeons, achievements and progression systems, but this is only the beginning. We have ambitious plans for Farever throughout 2026, and we can’t wait to share more with our community.”

    Got Your Eye On It?

    If you haven’t picked up Farever yet, timing is on your side. To celebrate the update preview, the game will be featured in the Steam Summer Sale with a 15% discount. It’s the perfect opportunity to grab a few codes for your co-op crew.

    The Nightling Invasion preview is live today on PC via Steam Early Access. Sharpen your blades, gather your allies, and step into the Rifts!

    Find out more here

    #GamingNews #Farever #ShiroGames #ARPG #PCGaming #SteamEarlyAccess #IndieGames #TheNightlingInvasion #CoOpGaming #MMORPG

  • From Space Junk to Godhood: DEBRISVERSE Hits Steam on July 29!

    From Space Junk to Godhood: DEBRISVERSE Hits Steam on July 29!

    Get ready to turn space trash into an existential crisis. Indie game developer Studio RELIER has officially announced that its highly anticipated sci-fi incremental meta-game, DEBRISVERSE, is launching on Steam on July 29, 2026.

    If you’re a fan of numbers going up, existential sci-fi dread, and breaking the fourth wall, this is one title you’ll want to wishlist immediately.

    What is DEBRISVERSE?

    At its core, DEBRISVERSE takes the addictive, loop-based mechanics of incremental games (think Cookie Clicker or Universal Paperclips) and throws them into a cosmic blender. Players start by managing and collecting space debris, but as the game progresses, the “meta” elements take over.

    Without spoiling the surprises Studio RELIER has tucked away, let’s just say that what starts as a simple cleaning job quickly spirals into manipulating reality, hacking the game’s own systems, and questioning the nature of the universe you’re building.

    Launch Details & Discount

    Studio RELIER is keeping the barrier to entry incredibly low for this cosmic trip:

    • Launch Date: July 29, 2026
    • Platform: PC (Steam)
    • Price: $3.99 USD
    • Special Offer: To celebrate the launch, early adopters can snag a 10% discount for a limited time during release week.

    For less than the price of a fancy coffee, you’re getting a mind-bending indie experience that promises hours of strategic automation and narrative twists. Head over to Steam to check out the trailer and add DEBRISVERSE to your wishlist today!

    Find out more here

    #Debrisverse #StudioRELIER #IndieGames #SteamGames #SciFiGaming #IncrementalGame #Idlegames #PCGaming #GamingNews #TechMash

  • The Otaku Dream: Gacha Capsule Shop Simulator Hits Steam Early Access and Takes Over Streams

    The Otaku Dream: Gacha Capsule Shop Simulator Hits Steam Early Access and Takes Over Streams

    If you’ve ever walked through the neon-lit streets of Tokyo’s Akihabara district, you know the irresistible pull of the gachapon machines. The satisfying clunk of the dial, the anticipation of the drop, and the thrill of cracking open that little plastic sphere—it’s pure dopamine.

    Now, a new indie hit is letting you step behind the counter. Gacha Capsule Shop Simulator – Akihabara officially launched into Steam Early Access on June 8, 2026, and it is already taking the streaming world by storm.

    From Collector to Contractor

    Developed as an immersive management sim, the game tasks players with building, customising, and running a bustling capsule toy empire right in the heart of Japan’s premier otaku hub.

    You start with a modest storefront and a few basic machines. Your goal? Turn it into a multi-floor gacha mega-complex.

    Here is what makes the gameplay loop so addictive:

    • Machine Management: Strategically place rows of machines to maximise foot traffic. You’ll need to balance your layout so customers aren’t blocking the aisles while hunting for their favourite sets.
    • Restocking & Inventory: Keep an eye on your best-sellers. Empty machines mean lost revenue, so you’ll need to constantly restock capsules and order the latest trending toy series.
    • Market Trends: Akihabara’s clientele is fickle. You’ll need to adapt to changing trends—stocking everything from cute anime figurines and quirky miniature furniture to bizarre gag gifts to keep the crowds coming back.
    • Store Customisation: As the yen rolls in, you can upgrade your shop’s interior with neon signs, custom flooring, and catchy background music to create the ultimate otaku haven.

    The Next Big Streaming Sensation?

    Since its release on June 8, the game has exploded across Japanese and Asian streaming platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and mildom. It turns out that watching streamers lose their minds over managing virtual inventory and reacting to the in-game gacha pulls is a recipe for viral success.

    The blend of cosy management mechanics and the high-energy aesthetic of Akihabara makes it incredibly watchable. It’s drawing easy comparisons to recent hits like Supermarket Simulator, but with a distinctly vibrant, subculture-driven twist.

    Early Access: What’s Next?

    As an Early Access title, the developers are actively looking for player feedback to shape the game’s future. Plans for full release upgrades are rumoured to include more niche toy categories, deeper customer interactions, and potentially even shop-lifter deterrent mechanics (a staple of busy Tokyo shops).

    If you’re ready to live out your dream of running a Tokyo toy empire, Gacha Capsule Shop Simulator – Akihabara is available on Steam right now.

    Are you going to curate a shop full of high-end anime collectibles, or go full chaos-mode with weird gag gifts? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #GachaCapsuleShopSimulator #SteamGames #GamingNews #IndieGames #Gachapon #Akihabara #SimulationGames #TechMash

  • Cosmic Horror Meets Space Battles: Hell Galaxy Drops Gripping New Gameplay Trailer Ahead of V1.0 Launch

    Cosmic Horror Meets Space Battles: Hell Galaxy Drops Gripping New Gameplay Trailer Ahead of V1.0 Launch

    The void of space just got a whole lot more terrifying. Milanese indie developer and publisher Italian Games Factory has officially unleashed a brand-new gameplay trailer for their dark sci-fi shooter, Hell Galaxy.

    Giving players their deepest look yet into a deeply twisted, transhumanist universe, the new footage sets the stage for epic cosmic battles and eerie psychological horrors just before the game leaves Steam Early Access for its highly anticipated full V1.0 launch later this summer.

    Check out everything we know so far about this gorgeous, gritty space odyssey.

    What is Hell Galaxy?

    If you ever wondered what would happen if you blended traditional space operas, post-apocalyptic survival, and psychological cosmic horror, Hell Galaxy is the answer.

    In this single-player space shooter, humanity is a distant memory. You take on the role of a Raider—an ex-convict whose consciousness has been fused into a mechanical bio-ship and exiled for eternity to the cursed, hostile Galaxy of Neterun.

    Survival in Neterun isn’t just about having the biggest laser cannons; it’s about managing your resources, continuously upgrading and customising your ship from the cockpit out, and holding onto your remaining sanity against ghostly, supernatural terrors.

    “Forget Your Humanity. Flesh and bone are gone. Your survival depends on a fully customizable ship.”

    What the New Trailer Reveals

    The newly dropped gameplay trailer shines a bright light on the narrative core of the game while showcasing its unique blend of fast-paced dogfights and RPG progression. Key highlights include:

    • Colossal Abominations: Breathtaking glimpses of giant Colossi—monstrous alien titans that look set to offer punishing, multi-stage boss fights.
    • Shifting Combat Stances: A look at the dynamic combat mechanics that allow players to switch mental focus on the fly between balanced, aggressive, or defensive setups to exploit enemy weaknesses.
    • Haunting Atmospheres: Visually stunning but deeply unsettling environments filled with ancient alien ruins, rival scavenger outcasts, and spectral entities that threaten your ship’s stability.

    Heading Toward V1.0 This Summer

    Having spent nearly a year gathering community feedback in Steam Early Access, Italian Games Factory is in the final stretch of development.

    Recent updates have heavily expanded the game’s worldbuilding, introduced refined exploration mechanics, and tightened up the dogfighting systems. The upcoming V1.0 update promises to be the definitive edition of this unique “weird fiction” odyssey.

    If you love gritty sci-fi, complex ship customisation, and space combat that actually challenges your nerve, Hell Galaxy is definitely one to watch. You can jump into the Early Access build right now on Steam or add it to your wishlist ahead of its full summer launch.

    What do you think of the new trailer? Are you ready to trade your humanity for a bio-ship? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #HellGalaxy #ItalianGamesFactory #SciFiGaming #SpaceShooter #IndieGames #PCGaming #SteamGames #GamingNews #CosmicHorror

  • From Viral Sensation to Steam Launch: ‘Mythic Love: Iberian Legends’ is Out Now!

    From Viral Sensation to Steam Launch: ‘Mythic Love: Iberian Legends’ is Out Now!

    The wait is officially over for indie game fans and folklore enthusiasts alike. After capturing the hearts of millions on social media and amassing a staggering 33,000+ wishlists on Steam, independent studio Platonic Games has officially launched its highly anticipated debut PC title: Mythic Love: Iberian Legends.

    The game officially dropped on Steam on June 23rd, and the indie community is already buzzing.

    The Road to Viral Success

    It is no secret that breaking through the crowded indie game market is tough. Yet, Platonic Games managed to do exactly that, turning captivating gameplay snippets and stunning art into a viral social media phenomenon.

    By tapping into the rich, underexplored world of Iberian mythology, the developers struck a chord with gamers looking for something deeply unique. The massive wave of TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) momentum translated directly into over 33,000 Steam wishlists—a monumental milestone for a debut title from a boutique studio.

    What is ‘Mythic Love: Iberian Legends’?

    Mythic Love: Iberian Legends seamlessly blends captivating narrative choices, romance, and rich cultural lore. Players are invited to step into a beautifully illustrated world inspired by the ancient myths, legends, and folklore of the Iberian Peninsula.

    Key Features:

    • Rich Mythological Lore: Encounter gods, spirits, and legendary creatures deeply rooted in Iberian history.
    • Player-Driven Narrative: Your choices dictate the branching storylines, alliances, and romantic outcomes.
    • Stunning Visual Style: A gorgeous, hand-crafted aesthetic that brings the magical landscapes to life.
    • Atmospheric Soundtrack: An immersive audio experience that perfectly captures the mystery and romance of the setting.

    “We wanted to create a game that not only tells a compelling story but also shines a light on the beautiful folklore of our heritage. Seeing the community’s response has been absolutely surreal.” – Platonic Games

    Available Now on Steam

    Whether you were one of the 33,000 people who had this bookmarked or you’re just discovering it today, Mythic Love: Iberian Legends promises an unforgettable narrative journey.

    Head over to Steam right now to grab your copy, support an incredible indie studio, and dive into the legends today!

    Find out more here

    #IndieGames #GamingNews #MythicLove #IberianLegends #PlatonicGames #SteamRelease #PCGaming #TechMash

  • Massive Mechs in a Dieselpunk Desert: SAND: Raiders of Sophie Drops Into Steam Early Access Today!

    Massive Mechs in a Dieselpunk Desert: SAND: Raiders of Sophie Drops Into Steam Early Access Today!

    The wait is officially over for fans of alternate history, giant walking war machines, and high-stakes extraction shooters. Publisher tinyBuild, alongside indie co-developers Hologryph and TowerHaus have officially launched their highly anticipated multiplayer FPS, SAND: Raiders of Sophie, into Steam Early Access today!

    If you are looking for a fresh take on the extraction genre that swaps out brutal learning curves for high-powered, customizable mech combat, this is a wasteland you’ll want to explore.

    Check out the official launch trailer on Steam and read on for everything you need to know about dominating the dunes.

    Welcome to Planet Sophie: An Alternate 1910

    Set in an alternate-history version of 1910, SAND: Raiders of Sophie transports players to a fallen, post-apocalyptic colony planet. Once a resource-rich jewel promised to space-faring pioneers of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, a mysterious ecological catastrophe has evaporated Sophie’s vast oceans.

    What remains is a sprawling, procedurally generated desert world filled with sunken ruins, abandoned cities, shipwrecks, and supernatural dangers. To survive the heat and rival scavengers, humanity relies on Tramplers—titanic, modular mechanical moving fortresses.

    Key Features: Forge, Fight, and Extract

    • Build Your Moving Fortress: The heart of SAND is the Trampler Editor. Players can design and customise their massive walking mechs from scratch to suit their exact playstyle. Whether you want a small, agile scout ship, a colossal walking tank armed to the teeth with mounted turrets and flak cannons, or a heavily armoured mobile base to store your treasure, the modular building system leaves it up to your creativity.
    • PvPvE Extraction Action: Deploy solo or squad up with friends to scour the desert for hidden riches, weapons, and priceless artefacts. But stay sharp—you aren’t alone. You will need to fend off rival players looking to board your ship, as well as the Upiors, mysterious and deadly supernatural entities haunting the ruins.
    • No More Offline Raids: Survival fans can finally breathe a sigh of relief. Unlike traditional survival games, where you risk losing everything while logged off, your Trampler extracts safely with you at the end of every session. Your hard-earned loot is yours to keep.
    • Choose Your Risk Level: * Voyage Mode: A lower-stress, open environment perfect for exploring, farming resources, and testing out experimental Trampler blueprints with friends at your own pace.
      • Storm Dive Mode: The ultimate high-stakes competitive mode. Face escalating dangers and an encroaching sandstorm that forces rival crews together for intense PvP combat, all for the chance to extract with top-tier legendary loot.

    Grab a Limited-Time Launch Discount

    To celebrate today’s Early Access launch, tinyBuild is offering a special 21% introductory discount for the first two weeks! You can jump into the cockpit right now on Steam for just $19.74 / £15.74 / 15,74€.

    The development teams at Hologryph and TowerHaus have emphasised that this is just the beginning of the journey, with plans to work hand-in-hand with the community to shape the roadmap all the way to the version 1.0 release.

    Are you going solo or gathering a crew to pilot your first Trampler? Let us know your ultimate mech build ideas in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #SAND #RaidersOfSophie #tinyBuild #Hologryph #TowerHaus #IndieGames #PCGaming #SteamEarlyAccess #Dieselpunk #MechFPS #ExtractionShooter #GamingNews #TechMash

  • Bullet-Hell Meets Dungeon Scroller: ‘Dark Scrolls’ is Out Now on PC and Switch!

    Bullet-Hell Meets Dungeon Scroller: ‘Dark Scrolls’ is Out Now on PC and Switch!

    If you’ve spent any time enjoying the monochromatic mech-cat madness of Gato Roboto or the gritty, action-packed mechanics of Gunbrella, you already know that developer Doinksoft doesn’t miss. Now, they are back alongside the chaotic-good publishers at Devolver Digital to drop their next retro-infused obsession: Dark Scrolls.

    The fantasy-themed action platformer has officially landed on PC and Nintendo Switch, and it’s bringing an absolute whirlwind of shmup-style chaos for the incredibly friendly price of just $9.99.

    Check out the official launch trailer below to see what you’re up against:

    What is Dark Scrolls?

    Imagine the relentless, forced side-scrolling pressure of arcade classics like SonSon or Super Ghouls ‘n Ghosts, fused seamlessly with modern roguelite progression and bullet-hell adrenaline. That is the formula for Dark Scrolls.

    The game drops you into procedurally generated runs stitched together from hand-crafted dungeon rooms. The screen advances automatically, forcing you to think on your feet, dodge waves of projectiles, and take down brutal screen-filling bosses before the environment itself crushes you.

    Key Features to Expect:

    • Arcade Shmup Chaos: This isn’t your typical slow-paced dungeon crawler. You’ll need razor-sharp reflexes to survive hordes of enemies firing patterns that wouldn’t look out of place in a classic shoot-’em-up.
    • A Wild Rogue’s Gallery: You start with a few basic heroes—like a spell-slinging Mage or a burly Berserker, but you can eventually unlock a roster of 9 playable characters. Yes, that includes a cute dog and a saxophone-playing rat. Each has entirely unique weapons, movement styles, and trinkets.
    • Local & Online Co-op: Don’t want to brave the darkness alone? Bring a friend along via local or online co-op to chain elemental powers together, combine perk builds, and revive each other when the screen inevitably gets too hectic.
    • The “Rage” Mechanic: Collect coins during your runs to buy powerful perks from the in-stage merchants, Bruce & Goose. These upgrades stack to unlock screen-wiping abilities tied to a unique star/rage meter.

    Bonus Launch Day Treat: If you are picking up the game on Steam, keep an eye out for the Dark Scrolls Launch Bundle. Devolver is currently running a promotion where you can score Doinksoft’s previous hits, Gato Roboto and Gunbrella, alongside the new release for an absolute steal!

    The TechMash Verdict

    For under a tenner, Dark Scrolls is a no-brainer for indie game lovers looking for a fast, punchy, and highly repeatable challenge to share with a friend. It looks like a classic 8-bit game of yore, but plays with the modern responsiveness and mechanical depth you expect from a premium Devolver joint.

    Dark Scrolls is available right now on Steam and the Nintendo eShop for $9.99.

    Find out more here

    #DarkScrolls #Doinksoft #DevolverDigital #IndieGames #NintendoSwitch #PCGaming #GamingNews #Roguelite #Shmup #TechMash

  • Evolved Animals & Galactic Action: Solo Dev Chris Considine Announces ‘Endangered’

    Evolved Animals & Galactic Action: Solo Dev Chris Considine Announces ‘Endangered’

    The indie gaming scene is about to get a wild new addition. Solo developer Chris Considine has officially announced Endangered, a fast-paced, roguelite action game that turns the tables on sci-fi tropes.

    Centuries ago, Earth’s animals did what humans couldn’t: they evolved, built spaceships, and left our dying planet behind for the stars. Now, they’re coming back.

    The Premise: Earth is Reclaimed

    In Endangered, you don’t play as a space marine or a cybernetic soldier. Instead, you step into the paws, claws, and talons of highly evolved animal heroes. Having thrived in the cosmos, these specialised creatures are returning to a ruined Earth to reclaim their ancestral home from the synthetic and mutated threats that now occupy it.

    What to Expect From the Gameplay

    As a solo project, Endangered punches well above its weight class with a focused, high-energy loop:

    • Lightning-Fast Roguelite Action: Expect high-stakes, twitch-reflex combat where positioning and speed are everything.
    • Diverse Animal Heroes: Each evolved creature comes packed with unique traits, abilities, and playstyles tailored to different tactical approaches.
    • Dynamic Run Progression: True to the roguelite genre, no two descents onto Earth will look the same. Collect cosmic upgrades, adapt to hostile biomes, and build the ultimate build to survive the wasteland.

    Why it matters: Solo game development is a massive undertaking, but it often yields the most unique, uncompromising creative visions. Considine’s blend of anthropomorphic sci-fi with punishing, rewarding roguelite mechanics makes Endangered a title indie fans should absolutely keep on their radar.

    Gear Up for the Return

    Whether you’re a fan of fast-paced shooters, deep roguelite progression, or just want to play as a highly intelligent, heavily armed animal, Endangered is shaping up to be a thrilling ride.

    Stay tuned to Techmash for more updates, gameplay deep dives, and release window announcements as development progresses.

    What animal hero are you hoping to play as? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #IndieGames #GamingNews #EndangeredGame #SoloDev #Roguelite #SciFiGaming #Techmash #PCGaming #GameDev

  • Noir on the Go: Award-Winning Thriller ‘The Drifter’ Hits Nintendo Switch & Switch 2!

    Noir on the Go: Award-Winning Thriller ‘The Drifter’ Hits Nintendo Switch & Switch 2!

    Pulp fiction, murder mysteries, and gritty point-and-click adventures—if these get your gaming gears turning, we’ve got some fantastic news for your Nintendo handhelds today.

    Independent game studio Powerhoof has officially announced that its critically acclaimed pulp adventure thriller, The Drifter, is out now digitally on both the Nintendo Switch and the next-gen Nintendo Switch 2 via the eShop!

    What is The Drifter?

    For the uninitiated, The Drifter is a tense, narrative-driven roller coaster that wears its pulp-thriller inspirations proudly on its sleeve. You step into the worn-out shoes of Mick Carter, a drifter who happens to witness a brutal murder, gets framed for it, is killed, and then… wakes up alive again just moments before it all happened.

    What follows is a desperate, dark, and beautifully animated race against time as Mick tries to unravel a massive conspiracy before his luck—and his lives—run out.

    Why You Should Care

    • Award-Winning Pedigree: Powerhoof (the brilliant minds behind Crawlers) have crafted a narrative that has already hooked critics and players alike during its PC run.
    • Perfect for Handheld: The atmospheric pixel art and gripping story make it the ideal game to curl up with in handheld mode.
    • Next-Gen Ready: Whether you are still rocking the trusty original Switch or have upgraded to the power of the Switch 2, you can dive into the mystery seamlessly.

    Pricing & Availability

    The Drifter is available right now on the eShop. Grab your copy at the following regional launch prices:

    RegionPrice
    Australia$29.50 AUD
    United States$19.99 USD
    United Kingdom£16.75 GBP

    TechMash Verdict: If you’re looking for a gripping, mature story to sink your teeth into this weekend, The Drifter is well worth the admission price. Head over to the eShop and grab it now!

    Find out more here

    #TheDrifter #Powerhoof #NintendoSwitch #NintendoSwitch2 #eShop #IndieGames #GamingNews #TechMash

  • “The Weirdest Camping Trip You’ve Ever Been On”: Icelandic Ocean Survival Game ‘Nokai’ Drops Playable Demo

    “The Weirdest Camping Trip You’ve Ever Been On”: Icelandic Ocean Survival Game ‘Nokai’ Drops Playable Demo

    The survival genre is filled with games that ask you to chop down a forest, build a massive fortress, and stay put. But what if a survival game forced you to keep moving through a beautiful, decaying world?

    Icelandic solo developer Hrafnkell “Keli” Þrastarson and indie studio Pretty Potato Games have just dropped a playable Steam demo for Nokai, a gorgeous, eerie, open-world ocean survival adventure that flips the script on traditional survival tropes.

    What is Nokai?

    Set 700 years after a mysterious calamity drowned the world, Nokai washes you ashore with no memory in a world ruled by violent storms, twisted wildlife, and rusted machinery rotting beneath the waves.

    To survive, you must rebuild a ship, sail through treacherous waters, and hunt an ancient evil that is actively poisoning the ocean.

    According to Þrastarson, the game is meant to channel a very specific vibe:

    “I wanted to make something that feels like the weirdest camping trip you’ve ever been on with your friends, with something in the water that is constantly watching and pushing you or your group to keep moving through the world.”

    Survival with Forward Momentum

    Unlike games where you settle down permanently, Nokai is entirely focused on forward momentum and exploration.

    Your ship acts as your primary vehicle and mobile base, requiring constant repairs, customisations, and crucial upgrades to reach more distant, dangerous islands. Instead of a mega-base, you’ll establish temporary camps across the world to gather resources, recover, and prepare for the perilous journey north.

    Key Features to Check Out in the Demo:

    • Solo or 5-Player Co-op: Take on the unforgiving ocean alone or crew a ship with up to four friends in online co-op.
    • Handcrafted Exploration: Discover diverse, uncharted islands packed with unique resources, hidden secrets, and environmental storytelling.
    • Intense Maritime Combat: Fight off unique, bizarre creatures and enemies across different oceanic regions.
    • Ship Progression: Upgrade and customise your vessel to survive harsher weather and deadlier waters.

    Supported by Innovation, Heading to Steam Next Fest

    Development on Nokai began back in 2021, backed by Iceland’s prestigious Rannís innovation grant. The game is currently gearing up for a major showcase at the Steam Next Fest in October 2026, ahead of its planned Early Access launch.

    If you want a taste of this hauntingly beautiful oceanic odyssey, the playable demo is available to download right now on PC via Steam. Go grab your crew, upgrade your ship, and see how long you can survive what lurks beneath the waves.

    Have you played the Nokai demo yet? Let us know what you think of this fresh take on ocean survival in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #Nokai #PrettyPotatoGames #IndieGames #SurvivalGames #GamingNews #CoOpGaming #PCGaming #SteamNextFest #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

  • Sharpen Your Blades: Kusan: City of Wolves Nintendo Switch Demo Out Now!

    Sharpen Your Blades: Kusan: City of Wolves Nintendo Switch Demo Out Now!

    If you’ve been itching for a new dose of high-octane, neon-drenched adrenaline, your wait just got a whole lot shorter. Publisher PQube and developer CIRCLEfromDOT have officially dropped a playable Nintendo Switch demo for their highly anticipated title, Kusan: City of Wolves.

    Switch players can finally dive into the game’s brutal, top-down action ahead of its multi-platform launch on July 30, 2026.

    Check out what to expect from this intense Asian-noir thriller below!

    Welcome to the Neon Underworld of Kusan

    In Kusan: City of Wolves, you step into the combat boots of Jin—an ex-soldier turned gun-for-hire. Your mission? Navigate a rain-soaked, corrupt metropolis to protect a young girl carrying a massive threat: a city-grade atomic weapon.

    If you’re a fan of the hyper-violent, twitch-reflex gameplay of Hotline Miami, this should be right up your alley. The game relies heavily on flow-state combat, where one single mistake means instant death. You will have to master a lethal dance of precision gunplay, parries, and devastating melee attacks using your cybernetic “War Hand” and the legendary Quantum Knife.

    Key Features to Look Out For:

    • Stylish Hardcore Combat: A seamless blend of firearms and melee weaponry that rewards aggressive, flawless execution.
    • 54 Hand-Crafted Stages: The full game features dozens of tightly designed arenas, complete with skill-based puzzles and challenges designed for high-score chasers hunting that elusive S-Rank.
    • Graphic-Novel Storytelling: The gritty story of betrayal and survival unfolds through beautifully stylised, dynamic comic-panel cutscenes.
    • Beastly Boss Battles: Towering foes with intricate, high-stakes attack patterns will push your timing and adaptation to the absolute limit.
    • Adrenaline-Pumping Beats: The entire experience is backed by a heavy, head-bopping score from acclaimed Korean hip-hop producer Loptimist.

    TechMash Verdict: Kusan: City of Wolves is shaping up to be one of the most stylish indie action titles of the summer. Having this frantic gameplay on a portable layout feels like a perfect match for the Nintendo Switch.

    How to Play

    The free demo is available to download right now via the Nintendo eShop. If you aren’t gaming on the go, don’t worry—demos are also live on PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

    Get your practice in now, because the full game unleashes chaos on July 30, 2026!

    Have you downloaded the demo yet? Let us know your high scores and impressions in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #KusanCityOfWolves #NintendoSwitch #PQube #CIRCLEfromDOT #IndieGames #GamingNews #TopDownShooter #NeonNoir #TechMash