Tag: #IndieGames

  • The Hell Clock Is Ticking Faster! Console Launch And Cursed War Expansion Moved Forward To July 9th

    The Hell Clock Is Ticking Faster! Console Launch And Cursed War Expansion Moved Forward To July 9th

    Great news for Action RPG and roguelike fans! In a rare and incredibly welcome turn of events for the gaming world, developer Rogue Snail and publisher Mad Mushroom have announced that Hell Clock is arriving early.

    The game’s highly anticipated debut on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, alongside its massive first expansion, Cursed War, has had its release date moved forward to July 9th.

    Originally scheduled for July 14th after shifting away from a June window to avoid conflicting with Path of Exile, the team has confirmed the game and its major 2.0 overhaul are locked, loaded, and ready ahead of schedule.

    Check out the brand-new developer gameplay walkthrough trailer below to see exactly what’s waiting for you in the depths:

    What is Hell Clock? An “Exile-like” Roguelike with Historical Bite

    If you haven’t yet experienced Hell Clock on PC, you are missing out on one of the most uniquely atmospheric indie ARPGs on the market. Described by the developers as an “Exile-like” roguelite, it masterfully blends the complex build depth and fast-paced isometric hacking-and-slashing of Path of Exile or Diablo with the high-stakes, run-based loop of a roguelike.

    What truly sets Hell Clock apart, however, is its narrative. Created by an all-Brazilian dev team, the game is a dark fantasy retelling of real, tragic Brazilian history.

    • The Base Game: Set during the late 19th-century War of Canudos, you play as the warrior Pajeú, battling through a nightmarish, undead-infested version of Purgatory and Hell to rescue the soul of his spiritual leader.
    • The Gameplay Twist: Pajeú’s magical Hell Clock is constantly ticking down, strictly limiting the time you can spend in the depths during each run. You must balance the risk of diving deeper for epic loot against the literal clock fading away.

    What’s Coming in the Cursed War Expansion?

    Launching simultaneously on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, the Cursed War expansion expands the universe significantly. Acting as a prequel story, it explores Pajeú’s origins during the harrowing Paraguayan War (1864–1870).

    Here is a breakdown of the new features players can look forward to on July 9th:

    FeatureDescription
    All-New Story ActA brand new prequel campaign act taking players to a dark fantasy twist on the Paraguayan War.
    Fresh Biomes & MapsOver 10 terrifying new environments to fight through, including Swamps, Blood Rivers, and the Campo Grande.
    Devastating New SkillsA slew of fresh abilities to experiment with, expanding the game’s already deep build synergy.
    Brutal Boss FightsFace off against some of the most challenging and mettle-testing bosses Rogue Snail has ever designed.
    Endless Nightmares ModeA brand-new endgame system featuring randomised, scaling-difficulty dungeons to truly push your builds to the absolute limit.
    Ascension 1.0The game’s full roguelike Ascension mode officially leaves beta, offering highly customizable difficulty modifiers.

    Join the “Race to Hell” Contest

    To celebrate the massive launch, Rogue Snail has also announced the Hell Clock: Race to Hell contest. If you are a streamer or content creator, you can compete to be the very first player to clear Tier 9 of the new Endless Nightmares endgame mode. The prize? A top-tier Starforge Systems gaming PC featuring a stunning, custom-designed Hell Clock art case. Head over to the official Hell Clock Discord server for full rules and registration details.

    Grab a Discount on PC Now

    If you want a head start before the console crowd arrives next week, PC players can currently grab the base game on Steam with a hefty 40% discount ahead of the 2.0 rollout.

    Whether you are looking to dive into Purgatory on your couch via PS5 and Xbox, or gear up for the prequel on Steam, set your watch: the Hell Clock strikes on July 9th.

    Find out more here

    #HellClock #CursedWar #RogueSnail #MadMushroom #PS5 #XboxSeriesX #ActionRPG #ARPG #Roguelike #IndieGames #GamingNews #TechMash

  • Cat-ch the Vibe: Cosy Simulation ‘Cat Mail Co.’ Details a Paws-itively Perfect July Release Date

    Cat-ch the Vibe: Cosy Simulation ‘Cat Mail Co.’ Details a Paws-itively Perfect July Release Date

    Cosy gamers, it is time to get your stamps and labels ready! Independent Belgian developer Maracas Studio has officially announced that Cat Mail Co., their highly anticipated cat-themed postal simulation game, will now be sliding through your digital mail slots on July 9, 2026.

    Originally scheduled to arrive just a few days earlier, the developer wisely decided to push the delivery date back slightly to steer clear of the chaotic hustle and bustle of the Steam Summer Sale. The good news? Nothing has been lost in the mail, and you only have to wait a tiny bit longer to start your new feline career.

    What is Cat Mail Co. All About?

    In Cat Mail Co., players travel to the peaceful shores of Cat’s Island only to find the local post office in absolute shambles. Following the mysterious disappearance of the former postmaster, the office has been buried under a mountain of undelivered parcels, and the local furry residents are getting impatient.

    It is up to you to restore the post office to its former glory. The core gameplay loop focuses on highly satisfying, stress-free organisational tasks:

    • Sort and Organise: Clear out the messy backlog and arrange the post office exactly how you want it.
    • Process Parcels: Weigh packages, choose the correct stamps, and apply labels for fragile or heavy goods.
    • Play Your Way: Enjoy the experience completely solo, or team up with friends in up to 4-player online co-op.
    • Uncover Mysteries: Unravel the hidden story behind the missing postmaster as you open up new delivery routes, tools, and abilities.

    The best part? There are no timers or harsh penalties. It’s designed to be a deeply relaxing, tactile experience where you can enjoy the rhythm of a good day’s work.

    Bonus Tip: If you buy the game during its first week of release, you will receive a free Supporter Pack which includes the game’s official soundtrack, a digital artbook, and a small in-game surprise. After week one, this pack will convert into paid DLC!

    A Purr-fect Reception

    Even before its official launch, excitement for the game has been sky-high. Cat Mail Co. has already surpassed a massive 130,000 wishlists on Steam, and its public demo has maintained an incredible 96% Positive rating from players.

    If you are looking for your next wholesome gaming obsession to pair with a warm cup of tea, make sure to add this one to your Steam wishlist ahead of next week’s launch.

    Cat Mail Co. officially delivers to Steam on July 9, 2026.

    Find out more here

    #CatMailCo #CozyGaming #IndieGames #MaracasStudio #SteamGames #CozyGames #CatGamers #GamingNews #TechMash

  • Overclock Your Instincts: Why Techno: 2Kill is the Next Essential Hardcore Roguelike

    Overclock Your Instincts: Why Techno: 2Kill is the Next Essential Hardcore Roguelike

    If you live for the rush of adrenaline-fueled bullet hells, tight movement mechanics, and high-stakes decision-making, it’s time to clear your schedule. The indie team at ReBels’ Project has officially dropped Techno: 2Kill onto the scene—and it’s a beautifully brutal love letter to fans of pure, unadulterated speed and challenge.

    Set in a dystopian future where a rogue, next-generation AI has decided to “save” humanity by forcibly converting every living thing into soulless synthetic copies, you are mankind’s glitch in the system. Cybernetically enhanced but still retaining your mind and sanity, your body is turned into the ultimate superweapon. Your mission? Blast your way through Earth, purge the ruins of the Moon, and take the fight directly to the AI’s core.

    Here is a breakdown of why this lightning-fast roguelike shooter deserves a spot at the top of your playlist.

    1. Speed Is Life, Standing Still Is Death

    Techno: 2Kill is fundamentally built around momentum. This isn’t a cover shooter where you can peek from corners; it’s an aggressive ballet of destruction. The game arms you with fluid movement mechanics like wall-running, grapple-hooking onto enemies, dodging bullet swarms, and warping through tactical portals.

    To survive the relentless synthetic onslaught, you have to lean directly into the chaos. The game features a brutal health-regen mechanic: the only way to stay alive is to execute cinematic finishers, tearing your robotic foes into metallic pulp and severing heads to replenish your life bar.

    2. A Massive, Unpredictable Combat Arsenal

    Whether your playstyle leans toward long-range precision or up-close-and-personal carnage, the combat depth here is immense. The ReBels’ Project has packed the game with an eclectic and deeply developed arsenal, including:

    • Standard-issue heavy-hitters like machine guns, shotguns, and sniper rifles.
    • Sci-fi powerhouses like electric cannons and devastating bazookas.
    • Brutal melee options for close encounters, ranging from heavy axes to swift rapiers.

    3. Infinite Replayability and Personalised Playstyles

    True to its roguelike nature, no two runs in Techno: 2Kill play out the same way. The progression and upgrade systems offer immense flexibility:

    • Rotating Augments: Every shop encounter shakes up your strategy with completely randomised augment selections.
    • Weapon Skill Trees: Each weapon features its own distinct set of skills to unlock and master.
    • Wild Synergies: The game encourages players to experiment, allowing you to forge unexpectedly broken, overpowered builds that suit your personal playstyle perfectly.

    Beyond the main path, the game keeps things fresh with a quirky contract system. You’ll find yourself taking on odd jobs for remaining human survivors—extracting cargo from toxic wastelands, infiltrating space stations built inside the fossilised ribs of cosmic beasts, and even competing in a futuristic cyber-knight tournament (yes, complete with dragon slaying).

    The Verdict: Are You Ready for the Challenge?

    With over 80 distinct levels, terrifyingly complex boss battles that demand pixel-perfect execution, and a soundtrack built to keep your heart racing, Techno: 2Kill delivers exactly what hardcore shooter fans crave. It’s tough, it’s fair, and above all, it’s incredibly fast.

    Techno: 2Kill is available now on PC. Lock, load, and go teach that rogue AI a lesson.

    Find out more here

    #Techno2Kill #ReBelsProject #RoguelikeShooter #IndieGames #PCGaming #HardcoreGaming #ActionFPS #GamingNews #TechMash

  • Plug In and Power Up: Innovative Roguelike ‘HYPERWIRED’ Launches Today on PC and Consoles!

    Plug In and Power Up: Innovative Roguelike ‘HYPERWIRED’ Launches Today on PC and Consoles!

    Indie gaming fans, it’s time to clear your schedules. If you’ve been looking for a fresh, adrenaline-pumping challenge to test your reflexes and spatial awareness, your next obsession has officially arrived.

    Developer SIDRALGAMES, alongside co-publishers Selecta Play and Entalto Publishing, are thrilled to announce that HYPERWIRED is out TODAY! This highly anticipated 2D action roguelike space shooter is available right now across Steam, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4|5, and Xbox.

    Check out the chaotic action in the official trailer below, check out the game on Steam, and dive into the media assets via the press kit link:

      Survive the Void on a Leash: The Ultimate Risk-Reward Mechanic

      HYPERWIRED separates itself from the crowded bullet-hell genre with a brilliant, high-voltage gameplay twist: your ship is physically tethered by a power cable to an energy source.

      In a galaxy plunged into total darkness, your life support and weaponry are entirely dependent on Space Sockets scattered throughout the procedurally generated sectors.

      • The Catch: To recharge your energy and unleash maximum firepower, you must plug in.
      • The Danger: The moment you are tethered, your movement is restricted by the length of your cable.

      This creates a frantic, gripping risk-and-reward dynamic. Do you stay anchored to keep your mega-lasers firing while dodging incoming enemy swarms? Or do you unplug, sacrifice firepower, and scramble for safety?

      Game Features at a Glance

      • Deep Build Customisation: Pick up batteries to discover over 250+ bullet modifier combinations and hunt down chips for temporary upgrades.
      • Permanent Progression: Choose from more than 40 permanent ship upgrades, allowing you to optimise your recharge times, boost firepower, or permanently extend your cable length.
      • A Fleet to Choose From: Unlock and pilot 10+ unique ships, each tailored to different playstyles—from heavy-hitting stealth builds to fast skirmishers.
      • Rescue an Army: Save stranded pilots lost in the void and watch them join the fray to fight right alongside you.
      • Elite Boss Battles: Test your skills against screen-filling, monstrous bosses at the end of every galaxy.
      • Futuristic Slow-Mo System: Feeling overwhelmed by the bullet hell? Activate your ship’s reality-bending slow-motion system to dodge the impossible. Kill enemies to juice it back up!

      Beautifully Retro, Unapologetically Fast

      Wrapped in a gorgeous 2D pixel-art style and driven by an intense synthwave-infused soundtrack, HYPERWIRED perfectly captures that classic retro arcade adrenaline while offering modern roguelite depth.

      Whether you’re playing on the couch with your PlayStation or Xbox, taking the chaos on the go with the Nintendo Switch, or aiming for the leaderboards on PC via Steam, HYPERWIRED is ready to push your gaming skills to the absolute limit.

      Don’t get stranded in the void. Grab your copy today, plug in, and master the breach!

      Find out more here

      #Hyperwired #IndieGames #Roguelike #GamingNews #Steam #NintendoSwitch #PlayStation #Xbox #SIDRALGAMES #SelectaPlay #EntaltoPublishing #BulletHell #SciFiGaming

    • The Final Chapter Awaits: Final Trailer Drops for Handmade Fantasy RPG Veritas Tales: Witch of the Dark Castle

      The Final Chapter Awaits: Final Trailer Drops for Handmade Fantasy RPG Veritas Tales: Witch of the Dark Castle

      If you’ve been craving a return to the golden age of tabletop gaming, your next obsession is right around the corner. Developer Digitalis Publishing and publisher 15 Industry have officially released the final pre-launch trailer for Veritas Tales: Witch of the Dark Castle—and it looks like an absolute dream for classic fantasy fans.

      Described as a “reading-style” fantasy adventure, the game heavily channels the spirit of The NeverEnding Story, tasking players with interacting with a living, breathing digital gamebook.

      Check out everything you need to know about this unique indie project ahead of its impending launch.

      Watch the Final Trailer

      The final trailer offers a stunning look at the gameplay highlights and the immaculate care poured into the title. It features atmospheric Japanese voice narration with English subtitles, perfectly setting the mood for a dark, choice-driven fantasy.

      A 100% Handmade Passion Project

      What makes Veritas Tales truly special is the incredible human story behind its development. The game is the brainchild of Yoshio Nishimura, a 30-year industry veteran who served as Chief of Background Art for the original Monster Hunter at Capcom before working on gorgeous Vanillaware classics like Odin Sphere, Dragon’s Crown, and 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim.

      Nishimura left the bustling studio life behind, moving to a remote Japanese mountain village to tend to fields and craft this game entirely on his own over the course of six long years.

      • No Generative AI: Every single one of the 300+ illustrations was meticulously drawn by Nishimura’s own hand.
      • Legendary Music: The soundtrack is composed by the legendary Hitoshi Sakimoto (Final Fantasy Tactics, Vagrant Story), ensuring a sweeping, nostalgic auditory experience.
      • Pure Human Soul: The developers proudly state that the game “has a soul that can only be found in something truly handmade.”

      “Once you open this book, you are no longer just a reader.”

      Gameplay: Nostalgia Meets Modern Design

      Inspired by iconic gamebooks like GrailQuest, Sorcery!, and Fighting Fantasy, Veritas Tales blends visual novel storytelling with old-school RPG systems.

      You aren’t just reading passive text; you are actively shaping the narrative. As you turn the pages, you’ll roll dice, track your stats via an on-screen pencil and eraser UI, and make critical choices. Whether you want to charge in with a sword, talk your way out of a terrifying encounter, or completely ignore the danger and keep walking—the choice is entirely yours.

      FeatureDetails
      Playtime20+ Hours of core gameplay
      ReplayabilityHeavily branching paths with new outcomes on second playthroughs
      Text VolumeOver 15,000 words of rich story
      FrictionOld-school design means true danger; wrong choices can lead to sudden death!

      Launching Very Soon!

      If you want a taste of the magic early, a “Very Positive” rated demo is currently available on Steam, allowing you to play the first 30 minutes as either Havelock the warrior or Paneri the mage.

      The full digital gamebook opens its pages on July 8th (PT) / July 9th on PC via Steam. Head over to their Steam page, check out the trailer, and get your digital dice ready!

      Find out more here

      #VeritasTales #WitchOfTheDarkCastle #IndieGames #PCGaming #SteamNextFest #Vanillaware #Gamebook #TabletopRPG #DigitalisPublishing #15Industry #RPG #HandcraftedArt

    • Katana Steel Meets Urban Noir: Legion of Judgment: Fallen Angel Drops Global Alpha Demo on Steam

      Katana Steel Meets Urban Noir: Legion of Judgment: Fallen Angel Drops Global Alpha Demo on Steam

      Indie action fans, it’s time to wake up and clear your schedules. If you’ve been craving a game that fuses the moody atmosphere of a classic graphic novel with tight, heavy-hitting combat, look no further. Theremin Interactive has officially unleashed the global Alpha Demo for their highly anticipated title, Legion of Judgment: Fallen Angel, over on Steam.

      Billed as a 2.5D noir action-Metroidvania RPG, this title is building a wildly original universe that feels fresh, gritty, and unashamedly stylish.

      The Premise: Amnesia, Business Suits, and Werewolves

      In Legion of Judgment, you aren’t just exploring another generic fantasy dungeon. Instead, you step into the polished shoes of a katana-wielding, amnesiac businessman who possesses terrifying supernatural powers.

      The world has been quietly overtaken by a sinister werewolf guild. To survive and fight back, you have to lead a double life:

      • By Day: Play the role of a regular hotel CEO, managing and restoring a rundown establishment that secretly serves as the hideout for the Legion of Judgment.
      • By Night: Wage a brutal, lone-wolf war against the werewolf conspiracy, infiltrating realistic urban backdrops to harvest gear, earn income, and rebuild your legion.

      The catch? You’ve lost your memories and your powers. To get them back, you’ll have to literally delve inside your own head to explore a non-linear “Memory Palace.”

      What to Expect in the Alpha Demo

      Theremin Interactive has rolled out this initial Alpha Demo with a very specific goal: perfecting the core combat framework.

      The free demo offers about 20 minutes of breathless, non-stop side-scrolling action. While the full version will heavily feature the deeper RPG mechanics like the Memory Palace and the Hotel Management systems, the developer has intentionally stripped those back for the Alpha to ensure players can give focused, unfiltered feedback on the game’s core mechanics.

      Here is what you get to test out right now:

      • Belt-Scroller Meets Metroidvania: Experience a satisfying blend of classic beat-’em-up combat and tight 2.5D side-scrolling.
      • Deep Action Linkages: Put your reflexes to the test using advanced combat systems like animation cancelling, parrying, and spectacular swordplay against enemies armed with automatic weapons.
      • Play Your Way: Dive headfirst into a loud, chaotic brawl, or slip through the shadows as a silent assassin.

      Download and Wishlist Now

      The development team is actively looking for global player feedback to polish the final experience, making this the perfect time to get hands-on and help shape an ambitious indie title.

      The Legion of Judgment: Fallen Angel Alpha Demo is available to download for free right now on Steam. Head over, slice up some bad guys, and don’t forget to hit that wishlist button to support the developers!

      Find out more here

      #LegionOfJudgment #FallenAngel #IndieGames #Metroidvania #ActionRPG #SteamDemo #PCGaming #NoirGaming #ThereminInteractive #TechMash

    • Cast a Line! Cosy Camper Adventure ‘Outbound’ Drops Its Massive Free Fishing Update Across All Platforms

      Cast a Line! Cosy Camper Adventure ‘Outbound’ Drops Its Massive Free Fishing Update Across All Platforms

      If your dream road trip involves parking a highly customizable, solar-powered camper van next to a peaceful lake and shutting out the noise of the world, we have some fantastic news for you.

      Developers Square Glade Games and publisher Silver Lining Interactive have officially released the first major content update for Outbound, their smash-hit cosy open-world exploration adventure. The highly anticipated Fishing Update is officially OUT NOW as a free download across all platforms, including Steam, Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and next-gen Switch consoles!

      Check out what’s waiting for you on the open road below.

      Reel in the Good Vibes: What’s New?

      Following an incredibly successful launch in May that welcomed over a quarter of a million players, this free expansion expands on the game’s laid-back, sustainable rhythm without adding any unnecessary stress. Here is what you can expect when you boot up the update:

      • A Robust Fishing Ecosystem: You can now craft three distinct tiers of fishing rods to cast your line across the game’s colourful biomes. There are 32 unique, collectable fish species waiting to be discovered in the rivers, lakes, and oceans.
      • Build Your Own Aquarium: Caught an absolute beauty? Don’t worry about survival meters—the team specified that fish aren’t for food! Instead, you can craft 4 different types of Fish Tanks to display your prize catches right inside your mobile home.
      • Expanded Camper Customisation: Take your interior design to the next level. The update introduces 6 buildable sets of stairs (perfect for creating multi-level camper layouts) and 4 buildable doors so you can finally partition your van into cosy, private rooms.
      • New Spots to Explore: Keep an eye out for newly added fisherman’s huts and cabins scattered across the maps to kickstart your angling journey and track down your new blueprints.

      Whether you are exploring the utopian wilderness completely solo or embarking on an off-grid road trip with up to three friends in online co-op, this update gives you the perfect excuse to park up, slow down, and enjoy the scenery.

      Available Now!

      The Outbound Fishing Update is a completely free automatic download. You can jump right back into your existing save file or start a fresh journey to experience the new mechanics from scratch.

      Pack your bags, upgrade your solar panels, and get ready to catch ’em all from the comfort of your rooftop tent. See you on the road!

      Are you playing Outbound solo or in co-op? What does your dream camper van setup look like? Let us know in the comments below!

      Find out more here

      #Outbound #CozyGaming #IndieGames #SquareGladeGames #SilverLiningInteractive #GamingNews #CoopGaming #CamperLife #NintendoSwitch #PS5 #Xbox #Steam

    • Nivalis Nights: Cyberpunk Life Sim Locks In September Release Date

      Nivalis Nights: Cyberpunk Life Sim Locks In September Release Date

      The neon-soaked streets of Nivalis are finally calling us back. Publisher 505 Games and independent developer ION LANDS (the brilliant minds behind Cloudpunk) have officially announced that their highly anticipated cyberpunk slice-of-life simulator, Nivalis Nights, will launch on Steam on September 29, 2026.

      If the name sounds slightly unfamiliar, that is because the game—previously known simply as Nivalis—has received a stylish title update alongside its brand-new release date trailer. For players looking to grab it elsewhere on PC, an Epic Games Store release is confirmed to follow at a later date.

      Check out the official breakdown of what to expect when you hit the rain-slicked pavement this fall.

      From Noodle Stands to Nightclubs

      In Nivalis Nights, you aren’t playing as a cybernetically enhanced mercenary out to save the world. Instead, you are just trying to make a living, find your footing, and thrive in a stunning, voxel-art metropolis that stretches from the ocean to the clouds.

      The game blends the cosy mechanics of management sims with a gritty, immersive cyberpunk atmosphere. You will start from incredibly humble beginnings and attempt to build a sprawling business empire.

      • Choose Your Hustle: Manage and grow unique businesses from the ground up, including noodle stands, hole-in-the-wall bars, ramen shops, and the city’s most exclusive nightclubs.
      • Supply Chain Management: Source your own ingredients directly from bustling waterfront marketplaces, or head down to the docks to grow and fish for your own stock.
      • A Living City: Navigate a realistic weather system and a world pushed to the brink by strict CorpSec crackdowns and a mysterious serial killer.

      Cosy Living Above the Clouds

      When you aren’t managing foot traffic or trying to legally (or illegally) sabotage your business rivals under the cover of a city-wide curfew, Nivalis Nights invites you to take things slow.

      Players can buy, customise, and decorate their dream apartments high above the smog. The game also promises a rich, character-driven narrative where you can explore hidden alleyways, chat with an eclectic cast of citizens, unlock deep stories, make lifelong friends, and potentially even find love.

      A Labour of Love Five Years in the Making

      The team at ION LANDS has been hard at work refining this ambitious simulation since its initial reveal back in 2021.

      “As an independent studio, developing this game meant overcoming hurdles we’ve never faced before, and we are incredibly grateful to our community for their patience over the last five years,” said Marko Dieckmann, Creative Director at ION LANDS. “Today, we are thrilled to finally lock in our official release date and cannot wait for players to dive in.”

      Nivalis Nights hits PC via Steam on September 29, 2026. Be sure to head over to the Steam page to add it to your wishlist today.

      Find out more here

      #NivalisNights #Cyberpunk #IONLands #505Games #LifeSim #IndieGames #Steam2026 #PCGaming #GamingNews #Cloudpunk

    • Build Your Ultimate Fighter: ‘Poly Fighter’ Hits the Montreal Comic Con Indie Zone This Weekend

      Build Your Ultimate Fighter: ‘Poly Fighter’ Hits the Montreal Comic Con Indie Zone This Weekend

      Get ready to step into the digital ring, Montreal! Local developer HeartLoop Games has officially announced that its highly anticipated debut title, Poly Fighter, will be fully playable at Montreal Comic Con 2026.

      Taking place from July 3–5 at the Palais des congrès de Montréal, the massive pop-culture celebration is playing host to some of the brightest minds in independent game development—and Poly Fighter is stepping up as a certified heavyweight in this year’s Indie Zone lineup.

      What is Poly Fighter?

      If you haven’t been keeping an eye on this one via Steam, Poly Fighter is a brilliant, single-player roguelike fighting game that completely flips the genre script.

      Instead of picking a veteran warrior who already knows every combo in the book, you start from the absolute bottom. Every time you defeat an opponent in tense, retro-arcade 1v1 duels, you get the chance to learn, adapt, and literally steal or upgrade moves to build your fighter’s style from scratch.

      Whether you want to construct a zoning tactician, a grappling powerhouse, or an aggressive rushdown menace, the game lets you build the ultimate, custom-tailored (and beautifully broken) fighter.

      Why We’re Hyped: It offers a pure, expressive arcade experience built entirely for solo play. No ranked online ladder anxiety, no toxic lobbies—just deep, rewarding systems that appeal to casual players and fighting game veterans alike. Plus, the low-poly 90s aesthetic and snappy animations look absolutely gorgeous in motion.

      Go Check Out HeartLoop Games

      What makes this showcase even sweeter is that HeartLoop Games is a homegrown Montreal studio, founded by a group of industry veterans dedicated to iterative, player-first game design.

      If you are attending the convention this weekend to catch the celebrity panels, the legendary Masquerade cosplay contest, or the comic book guest stars, make sure you take a detour to Floor 2’s gaming area. Head straight over to the Indie Zone, get your hands on the Poly Fighter demo, and meet the incredibly talented local team behind it. Who knows, you might even find your new favourite character (we’re looking at you, Muscle Horse).

      Montreal Comic Con runs from Friday, July 3 to Sunday, July 5, 2026. If you can’t make it out to the Palais des congrès this weekend, you can still download the free demo and wishlist the game right now on Steam ahead of its late 2026 launch.

      Find out more here

      #PolyFighter #HeartLoopGames #MontrealComicCon #MTLComicCon #IndieGames #GameDev #FightingGames #FGC #Roguelike #TechMash

    • Build, Explore, Survive: Solo-Dev Gem ‘Settler’s Domain’ Brings Strategic Pixel Art Goodness to Steam

      Build, Explore, Survive: Solo-Dev Gem ‘Settler’s Domain’ Brings Strategic Pixel Art Goodness to Steam

      If there is one thing we love here at TechMash, it’s the sheer magic of indie games—especially those crafted by a lone developer pouring their heart, soul, and coding hours into something special. Enter rick, a solo developer who has spent the last two years building a gorgeous, thoughtful colony sim that strategy fans will definitely want to keep on their radar.

      Say hello to Settler’s Domain.

      Combining charming pixel graphics with deep, thoughtful, and rewarding strategic gameplay, Settler’s Domain tasks you with establishing and expanding a thriving colony in beautiful but unforgiving unknown lands.

      What is Settler’s Domain All About?

      At its core, Settler’s Domain is a strategy game about survival, exploration, and expansion. You begin with minimal resources and the ultimate goal of keeping your settlers alive while transforming a tiny camp into a bustling domain.

      But it’s not just a peaceful city builder—the world is alive, procedural, and full of both opportunity and danger.

      Key Features to Get Excited About

      • Deep Resource Management: Managing your ever-growing population is a delicate balancing act. More settlers mean more productivity, but they also bring a higher demand for housing, medicine, and food. Balancing your supplies—especially when the harsh winter hits and crops stop growing—is vital.
      • A Massive Tech Tree: With over 80 unique structures to build, you can research and unlock everything from basic tents to advanced medicine huts, quarries, and even a “jammery” to keep your colony thriving.
      • Exploration and Dynamic Diplomacy: You aren’t alone in these lands. As you clear away the unknown on the procedural map, you’ll encounter neighbouring settlements. It is entirely up to you how to handle them. Will you engage in peaceful diplomacy and forge trade agreements? Or will you choose hostility and annex them by force?

      Why Solo-Dev Projects Hit Different

      There is a distinct passion that shines through in solo-developed projects like this. Rick’s art style takes clear inspiration from classic GBA-era visuals, giving it an instantly nostalgic, cosy aesthetic that perfectly contrasts the intense, punishing tactical choices you have to make to survive. It’s got the micro-management charm of Banished blended seamlessly with the macro-exploration elements of classic 4X games.

      Release Date Update: After nearly two years of hard work, rick has officially announced that Settler’s Domain is launching on Steam on August 25, 2026.

      If you love city builders, colony sims, or classic RTS games, you can head over to Steam right now to try out the demo and add it to your wishlist. Supporting solo developers is what keeps the gaming industry fresh, and Settler’s Domain looks like it’s going to be an absolute gem.

      Are you going to build a peaceful trading empire or conquer the map? Let us know your strategy in the comments below!

      Find out more here

      #IndieGames #SettlersDomain #StrategyGames #TechMash #GamingNews #SoloDev #PixelArt #CityBuilder #SteamGames #ColonySim

    • Punching the Clock in Paradise: Satirical Dystopian Sim ‘Dystopicon’ Hits Steam This July!

      Punching the Clock in Paradise: Satirical Dystopian Sim ‘Dystopicon’ Hits Steam This July!

      If you’ve ever looked at your daily 9-to-5 grind and thought, “Well, at least I’m not trapped in a neon-soaked, corporate-mandated, soul-crushing dystopia,” a new indie game is about to challenge that comfort level.

      The Spanish independent studio Palitroque has officially announced that their highly anticipated satirical dystopian time-management life-sim, Dystopicon, is locking in its arrival date. Mark your calendars: you can officially clock into the corporate machine on Steam this July 27.

      Punch In, Survive, Repeat

      In Dystopicon, players are thrown into a beautifully grim world where time is your most precious resource and survival is a daily balancing act. Part life-simulator, part hectic time-management strategy, the game leans heavily into dark humor and satire to explore the absurdities of extreme bureaucratic societies.

      Whether you are managing your dwindling funds, navigating bizarre corporate mandates, or just trying to keep your character fed and sane, Dystopicon promises a frantic, funny, and thought-provoking experience.

      Check out the official teaser to get a glimpse of the corporate madness waiting for you:

      Launch Details & Early Bird Discount

      Palitroque is making it easy to join the workforce on day one. Dystopicon will launch at a base price of 7.99 USD, but early adopters can grab a promotion right out of the gate. The studio is offering a 15% discount during the first two weeks of launch, making it the perfect time to add it to your library.

      • Release Date: July 27
      • Platform: PC (Steam)
      • Price: $7.99 USD (15% off for the first two weeks)

      Wishlist it now to ensure you don’t miss the shift!

      Find out more here

      #Dystopicon #IndieGames #Palitroque #SteamGames #GamingNews #PCGaming #DystopianSim #TechMash

    • Your Decor, Your Destiny: Cozy Room Decorator ‘Momento’ Hits Consoles Today!

      Your Decor, Your Destiny: Cozy Room Decorator ‘Momento’ Hits Consoles Today!

      Cosy gaming fans, it’s time to clear some shelf space—both in your virtual rooms and on your real-world consoles. Following a massively successful, surprise shadow-drop on Steam earlier this month that left PC players entirely enchanted, the deeply emotional room decorator Momento is officially OUT NOW on consoles!

      Brought to life by the talented indie developers at Fat Alien Cat and Nomo Studio, alongside British publishing house Silver Lining Interactive, this heartfelt narrative puzzle game is ready to steal your heart on Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.

      Unpack a Lifetime of Choices

      If you loved the Zen-like organisation of Unpacking, Momento takes the concept a massive step further. It isn’t just about where things fit; it’s about what those objects mean to you.

      The game asks a beautiful, poignant question: What happens to the things we keep throughout our lives, and how do they shape who we become?

      You’ll start your journey in a nostalgic childhood bedroom, picking out toys and trinkets that represent your early dreams. As you progress through 17 beautifully crafted rooms, you’ll watch your environment evolve from adolescence to adulthood. Deciding whether to keep a telescope, an artist’s easel, or a football isn’t just a design choice—it subtly steers the protagonist’s career, relationships, and ultimate destiny.

      Key Features At A Glance

      • Narrative Decorating: Your environmental design directly dictates the branching narrative paths of the protagonist’s life.
      • Generational Growth: Experience a cosy, evolving atmosphere that seamlessly transitions from childhood clutter to adult living spaces.
      • Dual Play Styles: Dive into the emotional, puzzle-filled Story Mode, or unlock furniture to design completely unhindered in Creative Mode.
      • Hidden Depths: This isn’t just a static experience—interact with your surroundings, flip light switches, leaf through books, pet animals, and solve hidden environmental puzzles.

      Where to Buy (and a Bonus for Physical Collectors!)

      Momento is available to purchase digitally right now on the Nintendo eShop, PlayStation Store, and Xbox Games Store.

      Physical Collectors Take Note: If you want to hold these memories in your hands, Silver Lining Interactive has announced that physical editions for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and PlayStation 5 will launch on July 17th. You can pre-order your physical copy today via Silver Lining Direct or select local retailers!

      Whether you’re looking to unwind after a stressful day or looking for a narrative that will make you reflect on your own sentimental treasures, Momento is the perfect addition to your gaming library.

      Find out more here

      #CozyGaming #MomentoGame #IndieGames #NintendoSwitch #NintendoSwitch2 #PS5 #XboxSeriesX #FatAlienCat #NomoStudio #SilverLiningInteractive #TechMash

    • Winter is Coming Early: Frosthaven Digital Edition Locks In October 1.0 Release Date

      Winter is Coming Early: Frosthaven Digital Edition Locks In October 1.0 Release Date

      Tabletop fans and tactical RPG enthusiasts, warm up your dice and clear your hard drives. Arc Games and Snapshot Games have officially announced that Frosthaven, the highly anticipated digital adaptation of Isaac Childres’ mammoth board game masterpiece, will hit full 1.0 release on PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store on October 15, 2026.

      After spending a highly productive year in Early Access, the digital successor to Gloomhaven is finally ready to unleash its complete, brutal fantasy campaign on the gaming world.

      What is Frosthaven?

      For the uninitiated, Frosthaven is a dark fantasy tactical RPG based on the critically acclaimed Cephalofair Games board game. It takes the deep, card-driven, turn-based combat of Gloomhaven and transports players to a harsh, treacherous northern frontier. You’ll manage a mercenary party, balance risk and reward, and make agonising strategic decisions to help a small outpost survive the freezing elements—and the terrifying creatures lurking in the snow.

      What’s New for the 1.0 Launch?

      Snapshot Games (led by X-COM creator Julian Gollop) hasn’t just ported the game; they’ve spent the last year refining it alongside community feedback. When version 1.0 drops this October, players can expect the definitive Frosthaven experience:

      • The Complete Story Campaign: Experience the massive tabletop campaign from start to finish, including the climactic final chapter.
      • All 17 Playable Heroes: The full tabletop roster will be available, with the final hero unlocked right at launch.
      • The “Road to Frosthaven” Onboarding: Board games of this scale are notoriously complex. A digital-only intro campaign, custom tutorials, and intuitive UI displays have been crafted to help new adventurers learn the ropes easily.
      • Enhanced Co-op Play: Smoother multiplayer systems and networking enhancements will make teaming up with your friends completely seamless.
      • Customizable House Rules: Tailor your playthrough to suit your specific playstyle.
      • An In-Game Codex: No note-taking required! Track lore, biomes, and enemy types effortlessly.

      “Staying true to the tabletop version and collaborating with the brilliant Isaac Childres and Cephalofair Games has been rewarding, and we’re proud of what the team has accomplished,” said Julian Gollop, CEO of Snapshot Games.

      Grab a Discount While You Can

      If you already own the Early Access version, your saves will carry over smoothly to the 1.0 launch via a free update.

      If you haven’t jumped in yet, now is the perfect time. The developers have confirmed that the price will increase once the full game launches in October. However, it is currently discounted as part of the Steam Summer Sale—making this the absolute cheapest window to secure your ticket to the frozen north.

      Mark your calendars for October 15, 2026, pack your winter gear, and get ready for one of the deepest tactical RPG experiences of the year.

      Are you planning to tackle Frosthaven solo or with a co-op party? Let us know your starting character class in the comments below!

      Find out more here

      #Frosthaven #TabletopGaming #TacticalRPG #PCGaming #Steam #EpicGames #IndieGames #Gloomhaven #SnapshotGames #ArcGames #TechMash

    • Ready to Rock? Deathbulge: Battle of the Bands Melts Faces on Consoles Today!

      Ready to Rock? Deathbulge: Battle of the Bands Melts Faces on Consoles Today!

      Gamers and music lovers, grab your instrument of choice and secure your battle jackets. The wait is finally over! Five Houses LLC and creator Dan Martin have officially dropped their critically acclaimed, hilariously bizarre music-based RPG, Deathbulge: Battle of the Bands, onto consoles.

      As of today, you can dive headfirst into this rhythmic chaos on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4|5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S for just $19.99 USD.

      If you’ve been looking for a turn-based RPG that trades generic health potions for a warm cup of “Barry Friendly’s Tea” and replaces traditional lockpicks with violently kicking down doors, your highly specific wish has been granted.

      Check out the chaotic energy waiting for you in the console launch announcement below:

      Defeat Your Foes With the Power of… Slapping a Bass?

      Originally finding massive success on PC (where it boasts an incredible 98% positive review rating on Steam), Deathbulge: Battle of the Bands follows Faye, Ian, and Briff. This trio of absolute goofball, dysfunctional musicians unknowingly enters a cursed battle of the bands contest where contestants have to fight to the death using the power of music.

      What follows is a 15-to-20-hour campaign packed to the brim with sharp humour, hand-drawn frame-by-frame animations, and unforgettable dungeons—including one where you literally crowdsurf through an entire arena.

      Why You Need to Play It

      • The “Measure Effects” Combat System: This isn’t your standard, slow turn-based JRPG. Deathbulge uses a unique combat system that blends real-time decision-making with turn-based strategy. What you do between turns alters the rhythm and flow of battle.
      • 9 Musical Classes: Customise your crew with roles like the supportive Busker or the high-risk, high-reward Headbanger, complete with distinct outfits that show up in every single dialogue portrait and cutscene.
      • Say Goodbye to Inventory Management: Instead of stocking up on 99 healing items, you collect Merch. Once you have a piece of merch, it’s yours forever—it simply uses “Stock,” a global, refillable resource.
      • A Truly Alive World: Meet over 120 unique NPCs with dialogue that adapts as you progress through the game. Oh, and singing fish are a vital part of the main narrative. Naturally.
      • Perks You Can Wear: Sew patches of band logos directly onto your Battle Jacket to gain tactical advantages in combat.

      Whether you want to chill on the couch with your PlayStation or Xbox, or take the musical anarchy on the go with the Nintendo Switch, Deathbulge: Battle of the Bands is an absolute must-play indie gem.

      Are you ready to join the band? Grab your copy on your favourite console store today for $19.99 USD!

      Find out more here

      #Deathbulge #BattleOfTheBands #FiveHousesLLC #IndieGames #RPG #NintendoSwitch #PS5 #Xbox #GamingNews #TechMash