TECHMASH

Tag: #kickstarter

  • Fists, Sci-Fi, and Fighting Spirit: Play the ‘A Fighter’s Nova: Mindara’ Steam Prototype & Back the Kickstarter Today!

    Fists, Sci-Fi, and Fighting Spirit: Play the ‘A Fighter’s Nova: Mindara’ Steam Prototype & Back the Kickstarter Today!

    Indie fighting game fans, wake up. If you’ve been craving a fresh, mechanically deep, and narratively rich experience to test your combos on, BadRez Games just dropped a massive double-whammy of news.

    The independent studio has officially announced that their highly anticipated title, A Fighter’s Nova: Mindara, is playable for the very first time. You can jump into the action right now via a freshly launched Steam prototype, and simultaneously help bring the full vision to life by backing their newly launched Kickstarter campaign.

    Here is everything you need to know about this cosmic brawler and how you can get your hands on it today.

    What is A Fighter’s Nova: Mindara?

    Developed by the passionate team at BadRez Games, A Fighter’s Nova: Mindara is a love letter to classic fighting games, infused with a distinct sci-fi aesthetic, compelling character lore, and modern gameplay fluidities.

    The game promises to deliver:

    • Deep Tactical Combat: Whether you are a casual button-masher or a frame-data fanatic, the mechanics are being built to offer high skill ceilings while remaining accessible.
    • Rich World-Building: Step into a universe where cosmic forces, unique alien biomes, and fierce warriors collide.
    • A Distinct Indie Flavour: BadRez Games is pouring pure, unfiltered creativity into this project, free from corporate constraints—and it shows in the gritty, stylistic art direction.

    Play It Right Now on Steam!

    Too often, we see cool indie games tucked away behind closed doors for years. BadRez Games is doing things differently. They want the community involved from the ground floor.

    By dropping a playable prototype on Steam, they are giving players a literal taste of the combat engine, character movement, and art style.

    Why you should play it: This isn’t just a teaser trailer; it’s a living, breathing proof-of-concept. The studio is actively looking for community feedback to refine the balancing, controls, and feel before the final release. Your feedback could literally shape the future of the game.

    Fuel the Nova: The Kickstarter is LIVE

    Developing an ambitious indie fighting game takes a lot of resources, which is why BadRez Games has officially launched their Kickstarter campaign alongside the Steam prototype.

    This is your chance to support independent game development and secure some awesome, exclusive rewards. Depending on your pledge tier, backers can look forward to:

    • Digital copies of the game upon release.
    • Exclusive in-game cosmetics and digital artbooks.
    • A chance to get your name in the credits.
    • Alpha/Beta access to future builds of the game.

    If you play the Steam prototype and love what BadRez Games is cooking, heading over to their Kickstarter page to drop a pledge (or even just sharing the link) is the best way to ensure A Fighter’s Nova: Mindara reaches its ultimate form.

    How to Get Involved

    Ready to throw hands in the cosmos? Here is your action plan:

    1. Download the Prototype: Search for A Fighter’s Nova: Mindara on Steam and download the demo today.
    2. Join the Discussion: Leave your feedback on the Steam community hubs and social media.
    3. Back the Project: Head over to Kickstarter to check out their funding goals and stretch rewards.

    Stay tuned to TechMash.co.uk for more updates, character breakdowns, and exclusive interviews as A Fighter’s Nova: Mindara continues its development journey!

    Source – https://s.team/a/4198610

    #AFightersNova #BadRezGames #IndieDev #FightingGames #Kickstarter

  • Lethal Wedding, the top-down shooter, is coming to Steam

    Lethal Wedding, the top-down shooter, is coming to Steam

    Lock, load, and clear the aisle, because holy matrimony is about to meet absolute matri-mayhem.

    Independent development powerhouse Mega Cat Studios and retro-publishing heavyweights 8 Bit Legit have officially announced that Lethal Wedding is officially making its way to PC via Steam.

    If you’ve been dying for a cooperative top-down shooter that perfectly captures the frantic, chaotic energy of 90s couch co-op classics like Zombies Ate My Neighbors blended with the explosive absurdity of 80s action cinema, it’s time to show your commitment and hit that wishlist button.

    The Plot: “Bride Hard” or Die Trying

    The premise of Lethal Wedding is exactly the kind of beautiful B-movie gold we live for.

    It’s the day before the big wedding, and everything is going smoothly—until a ruthless drug ring run by criminal clowns crashes the bachelor party and kidnaps the groom. With the ceremony in jeopardy, it’s up to two heavily armed women to save the day: Joanna (the Bride) and Shelly (her Mother-in-Law).

    To get the groom back, this unlikely duo will have to put aside their wedding planning stress and family friction to blast their way through circus freaks, bazooka-toting bearded ladies, mafia thugs, and murderous mime syndicates.

    16-Bit Chaos Meets Modern Mechanics

    Originally developed natively for the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive, Lethal Wedding features breathtakingly authentic pixel art aesthetics and a pulsing chiptune soundtrack that feels like it was ripped straight out of 1993. However, Mega Cat Studios has injected some brilliant modern features to ensure the gameplay feels fresh:

    • 2-Player Couch Co-Op: Grab a friend, share the screen, and see if you can survive the ultimate test of family bonding.
    • The Vow System: This innovative, high-risk, high-reward mechanic lets you accept optional “vows” (challenges) before entering a level. Want elite upgrades like Speed Reload? You’ll have to “vow” to face enemies that move faster and hit twice as hard.
    • Outrageous Arsenal: Forget standard shotguns. Lethal Wedding equips you with custom, bizarre weaponry like the explosive Gun of Roses, the rapid-fire Banana SMG, and the Hare Trigger—a magician’s hat that literally shoots snapping, bouncing rabbits.
    • Massive Campaign: Fight through over 30 levels of pure carnage, spanning from ruined wedding venues to clown drug dens.

    Retro Purists, Rejoice!

    While PC players can look forward to causing chaos on Steam, retro purists haven’t been left at the altar. Mega Cat Studios and 8 Bit Legit have also confirmed that a physical Sega Genesis / Mega Drive cartridge edition of Lethal Wedding is officially launching on Kickstarter on June 2nd, 2026.

    Whether you want to play it on modern hardware or blow the dust off your classic 16-bit console, this game is shaping up to be an absolute blast.

    Verdict: With its hilarious premise, gorgeous pixel art, and genuinely challenging top-down shooter mechanics, Lethal Wedding is a mandatory wishlist for retro enthusiasts and action fans alike.

    Check out the newly released Steam announcement trailer today, and prepare to Bride Hard!

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/4624120

    #MegaCatStudios #8BitLegit #LethalWedding #topdownshooter #Steam #SegaGenesis #MegaDrive #Kickstarter #gamingnews #videogames #games #gaming #gamers

  • Temtem: Pioneers Shatter Kickstarter Goals — Is the Creature-Collection Genre Entering a New Era?

    Temtem: Pioneers Shatter Kickstarter Goals — Is the Creature-Collection Genre Entering a New Era?

    The results are in, and they are loud. Crema, the Spanish studio that shook up the monster-battling world with Temtem, has officially closed the Kickstarter campaign for its latest venture: Temtem: Pioneers.

    If there were any doubts about whether the “Tem-community” was ready to expand beyond the traditional MMO format, those doubts have been thoroughly incinerated. The campaign didn’t just meet its goals; it blew past them, signalling a massive appetite for a fresh take on the Airborne Archipelago.

    A Bold Departure from the MMO

    While the original Temtem was built on the backbone of competitive, turn-based MMO mechanics, Pioneers is a different beast entirely. It’s a social survival adventure that focuses on exploration, base-building, and—crucially—the bond between Pioneers and their Tems in a more sandbox-oriented environment.

    Key features that drove the hype:

    • Real-time Interaction: Move away from menu-based combat into a more dynamic world.
    • Settlement Building: Players aren’t just passing through; they are establishing a new life on the islands.
    • Deep Lore Expansion: Discovering the origins of the Archipelago and the Tems themselves.

    By the Numbers: A Community Reborn

    The success of this Kickstarter is a fascinating case study in community loyalty. After years of updates to the original MMO, some wondered if the brand had reached its ceiling. The Pioneers’ results suggest the opposite.

    MilestoneStatus
    Funding GoalReached in record time
    Stretch GoalsMultiple tiers unlocked (including new Tems & biomes)
    Backer CountThousands of returning veterans and new explorers

    “The success of Pioneers proves that fans don’t just want more of the same—they want the Temtem universe to grow, evolve, and challenge the conventions of the creature-collection genre.”

    Why This Matters for the Genre

    For a long time, the “creature-collection” tag was synonymous with one specific gameplay loop. Crema is now positioning the Temtem IP as a versatile universe that can span different genres, much like the heavy hitters it once sought to emulate.

    By pivoting to a survival/social hybrid, Crema is tapping into a market currently dominated by titles like Palworld or Valheim, but with the polished, vibrant aesthetic and strategic depth that Temtem fans adore.

    What’s Next?

    With the Kickstarter concluded, the focus shifts to development. Crema has a history of being transparent (and sometimes brutally honest) with their roadmap, so backers can expect a front-row seat to the creation of this new era.

    One thing is certain: the Archipelago is expanding, and the community is more than ready to plant its flags.

    Are you a veteran Tamer heading into the new frontier, or is Pioneers the first time you’re considering a trip to the Archipelago?

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/2961930

    #Crema #Kickstarter #TemtemPioneers #creaturecollection #techmash #n5dave #games #gaming #gamers #videogames #gamingnews #survival #crowdfunding

  • Wyldheart gets massive Wishlists on Steam after Kickstarter’s early success

    Wyldheart gets massive Wishlists on Steam after Kickstarter’s early success

    The indie scene is currently buzzing with the rise of Wyldheart, a “rustic fantasy” co-op RPG that is rapidly becoming one of the most anticipated titles of 2026. Developed by Wayfinder Studios—a team comprised of veterans from EA DICE, Mojang, and Embark—the game has just smashed through a major milestone, surpassing 140,000 wishlists on Steam.

    But the momentum doesn’t stop at wishlists. The game’s Kickstarter campaign is currently on fire, having already hit 80% of its funding goal in record time. With the finish line in sight, the studio is eyeing a roadmap that could see the game land in Early Access before the year is out.

    What Is Wyldheart?

    If you haven’t been tracking this one, imagine the chaotic, high-fives-and-accidental-betrayals energy of a tabletop D&D session blended with modern action RPG mechanics. Unlike the massive, 100-hour slogs that dominate the genre, Wyldheart focuses on “bite-sized” campaigns designed to be completed in roughly 10 hours.

    It’s a smart move for the “busy gamer” demographic, allowing friends to actually finish a story together without needing to clear their calendars for six months.

    Key Features Include:

    • Classless Progression: No more “who forgot to roll a healer?” debates. You can mix and match skills across five branches: Adventuring, Survival, Dungeoneering, Weaponry, and Magic.
    • Tactical Chaos: Friendly fire is always on. Whether it’s a misplaced fireball or a swinging mace, you’ll need to coordinate with your 4-player party to avoid “accidental” casualties.
    • Unique Ancestries: Play as the Freefolk, the plant-like Mosslings, or the sturdy Grimhorns.
    • Tabletop Spirit: From voting on dialogue choices to cooking meals at camp, the game prioritises the social experience of adventuring.

    The Road to Early Access

    The surge in Steam wishlists is a massive indicator of market fit. For an indie studio, 140k wishlists is a “golden ticket” that often translates into a top-tier launch on the Steam charts.

    “We are overwhelmed by the support,” says the team at Wayfinder Studios. “The community feedback from our Alpha tests has been instrumental in shaping the world of Caerwyn, and this Kickstarter progress ensures we can deliver the polished Early Access experience players deserve.”

    How to Get Involved

    If you want to get your hands on the game early, there’s still time to back the project. Wayfinder Studios recently announced that they are opening 4,000 Beta Access keys for Kickstarter backers.

    • Beta Start Date: Friday, May 15, 2026.
    • Early Access Goal: Late 2026.
    • Full Release (1.0): Expected in 2027.

    The game is currently confirmed for PC (Steam and Epic Games Store), with console versions being explored for the post-1.0 launch.

    Are you ready to risk a fireball to the back of the head for some loot? Head over to the Wyldheart Steam Page to wishlist it now or check out their Kickstarter to help them cross that final 20%!

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

    #WayfinderStudios #Wyldheart #Kickstarter #coop #rpg #steam #paxeast #crowdfunding #games #gaming #gamers

  • Retro Revival: Annalog Crushes First Stretch Goal on Kickstarter

    Retro Revival: Annalog Crushes First Stretch Goal on Kickstarter

    The golden age of the NES isn’t just a memory—it’s a thriving playground for modern developers. The Retro Room Games, in collaboration with developer mdsteele, has officially announced that their ambitious new Metroidvania, Annalog, has successfully cleared its first major stretch goal on Kickstarter just days after launching.

    For those who missed the initial buzz, Annalog isn’t just a “retro-style” game; it’s a brand-new title built specifically for vintage NES hardware.

    A Post-Apocalyptic Puzzle-Platformer

    Annalog invites players into a sprawling, mysterious world where technology has long since fallen into ruin. As you navigate the 13 distinct regions, you aren’t just jumping over pits and fighting bosses—though there are eight massive ones to keep your heart racing. The core hook lies in a free-form programming system.

    Players can reprogram abandoned machinery to solve puzzles, meaning there’s no single “correct” way to progress. Whether you prefer tight platforming or outsmarting the environment with logic, Annalog adapts to your playstyle.

    What the First Stretch Goal Means

    With the first stretch goal officially unlocked, the project is moving beyond a simple digital release. The funding ensures:

    Enhanced Physical Editions: The “Complete-in-Box” (CIB) treatment is getting even better, with higher-quality materials for the physical NES cartridge and printed manual.

    Expanded Content: Additional polish and potential features (as teased by the developers) are now locked in, ensuring this is one of the most robust indie NES releases to date.

    “Annalog represents years of dedication, built piece by piece in spare moments,” says developer mdsteele. “It’s about craftsmanship, ownership, and keeping retro gaming alive through games made with care.”

    Tech Specs for the Purists

    Despite being a new release in 2026, Annalog respects the limitations of the original 8-bit hardware while pushing it to the limit:

    Zero Sprite Flicker: A polished engine ensures a smooth experience even on original consoles.

    Battery-Backed Saves: No tedious passwords here—automatic saving between every room.

    Open Source: In the spirit of the community, the source code is freely available for those who want to see how the magic happens.

    How to Get Involved

    The campaign is still live, and with the first goal down, the eyes are now on the next milestones, which include a CD release of the original soundtrack and even more in-game lore pages.

    If you’re a fan of physical media, pixel art, or just want to see what the NES can do in 2026, you can head over to the Annalog Kickstarter page to secure your copy.

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

    #TheRetroRoomGames #mdsteele #Kickstarter #Annalog #Metroidvania #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • The Lawn Mowing Simulator II Kickstarter Campaign Starts Today

    The Lawn Mowing Simulator II Kickstarter Campaign Starts Today

    Ready your blades and fuel up the trimmer—the most relaxing (and weirdly addictive) sim in gaming is back.

    Skyhook Games has officially launched the Kickstarter campaign for Lawn Mowing Simulator 2 today, March 19, 2026. After the breakout success of the original 2021 hit, the Liverpool-based studio is taking the leap into self-publishing, inviting the community to help shape the next generation of digital landscaping.

    What’s New in the Shed?

    If you thought the first game was just about “cutting grass,” the sequel is looking to prove it’s an entire lifestyle. Moving away from the quaint British countryside, LMS2 heads across the pond to a brand-new USA setting.

    Here is what’s confirmed for the sequel:

    The Leaf Blower: Finally! The most requested feature from the first game is here. You’ll be clearing clippings and autumn leaves with high-powered blowers (and a trusty rake for those tight corners).

    Advanced Grass Tech: Skyhook has rebuilt its grass system from the ground up. Lawns now feature varying heights, weeds, and flowers, making your “before and after” shots more satisfying than ever.

    Explorable HQ: Career mode has been completely overhauled. You won’t just be clicking through menus; you’ll manage your business from a physical, explorable headquarters.

    Big Brand Partners: Licensed equipment from Kubota, SCAG, and STIGA returns, meticulously recreated to the bolt.

    The Kickstarter & Stretch Goals

    Skyhook has set a modest initial goal of £15,000 to bolster its self-funding efforts. However, the real excitement lies in the stretch goals.

    The campaign includes a massive “Switch 2” goal, potentially bringing the zen of mowing to Nintendo’s next-gen handheld. Backers can also snag rewards ranging from digital keys and exclusive in-game items to the ultimate tier: naming the town where the game takes place.

    “As a small, independent developer, enabling the community to be involved in the future direction of the game via Kickstarter… is a key aim for the team,” says David Harper, Managing Director at Skyhook Games.

    Whether you’re a professional groundskeeper or someone who just finds the sound of a deck-clearing blade therapeutic, this looks like the upgrade we’ve been waiting for.

    Find out more here – https://skyhookgames.com/ or here https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/skyhookgames/lawn-mowing-simulator-2

    #SkyhookGames #LawnMowingSimulator2 #Kickstarter #NintendoSwitch #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Eat the Rich (In a Card Game): Why All Will Rise is the Courtroom Drama We Need

    Eat the Rich (In a Card Game): Why All Will Rise is the Courtroom Drama We Need

    If you’ve ever looked at a news headline about a CEO’s tax “efficiency” and felt your blood pressure spike, indie developer Studio Gavel has the perfect digital outlet for your frustrations.

    Enter All Will Rise, a sleek, high-stakes courtroom deck-builder that trades fireballs and dragons for subpoenas and character assassination. It’s recently hit early access, and it’s already making waves for its sharp writing and even sharper mechanical bite.

    The Premise: Justice Isn’t Free (But Your Deck Is)

    In All Will Rise, you play as a scrappy, overworked public prosecutor tasked with bringing the world’s most untouchable “titans of industry” to justice. We aren’t talking about small-time shoplifters here; your targets are tech moguls, pharmaceutical kings, and oil barons who treat the law like a suggestion.

    The game is structured as a roguelike campaign. Each “run” involves building a case against a specific billionaire, navigating pre-trial discovery to find “Evidence” cards, and finally stepping into the courtroom for the ultimate showdown.

    How it Plays: Beyond the Objection

    If you’ve played Sledge the Spire or Balatro, the flow will feel familiar, but the “combat” is uniquely legalistic. Instead of health points, you’re managing Jury Favour.

    Evidence Cards: Your heavy hitters. These deal direct damage to the defendant’s “Credibility.”

    Rhetoric Cards: These provide “Defence” (blocking the billionaire’s high-priced lawyers from swaying the jury) or “Buffs” that make your future evidence more impactful.

    The “Objection!” Mechanic: A powerful interrupt system. If you time your Objection card correctly against a witness’s lie, you can trigger a “Perjury Chain,” doubling your damage for the turn.

    Pro Tip: Don’t sleep on the “Character Witness” cards. They might look weak early on, but stacking “Emotional Appeal” is the only way to bypass the “Ironclad NDA” armour that late-game bosses use.

    The Aesthetic: Sharp Suits and Dark Humour
    The art style is a gorgeous, minimalist take on noir—think heavy shadows, sharp lines, and a colour palette that feels like a rainy evening in London.

    But the real star is the writing. The dialogue from the billionaire antagonists is deliciously punchable. They’ll sneer at your “budget suit” while playing cards like “Lobbyist Intervention” or “Media Spin,” which shuffle “FUD” (Fear, Uncertainty, Doubt) cards into your deck to clog up your hand.

    Why It’s Worth Your Time

    All Will Rise succeeds because it gamifies a power fantasy that feels relevant. There’s a visceral satisfaction in playing a perfectly timed “Forensic Accounting” card to strip away a billionaire’s “Offshore Tax Haven” shield. It’s strategic, stylish, and carries a biting social commentary that most deck-builders shy away from.

    Final Verdict: If you’re a fan of Phoenix Wright but want the tactical depth of a modern roguelike, All Will Rise is a mandatory addition to your Steam library. It’s time to prove that no one is above the law—or a well-constructed deck.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/F6Qi9

    #SpeculativeAgency #AllWillRise #courtroom #deckbuilder #kickstarter #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Stitching Together Magic: Toymaker: Threads of Joy Launches Its Kickstarter Campaign

    Stitching Together Magic: Toymaker: Threads of Joy Launches Its Kickstarter Campaign

    The cosy gaming scene is about to get a whole lot more “plush.”

    If you’ve ever looked at a handmade stuffed animal and thought, “I wish I could live in that world,” Uprising Studios is about to grant your wish. The Spanish indie team behind the poetic adventure Scarf has officially pulled back the curtain on their latest project: Toymaker: Threads of Joy.

    As of March 17, 2026, the game has officially launched its Kickstarter campaign, inviting players to fund a world where craftsmanship meets ancient Spanish folklore.

    More Than Just a Crafting Sim

    Set in a beautifully realised 1910s Salamanca, Toymaker isn’t your average shop management game. You play as a young artisan who has just inherited a toy shop from their mother. But this isn’t just about selling stock; it’s about the tactile art of creation.

    The gameplay loop is designed to be a “stress-free” sanctuary. You’ll be:

    • Customising Every Stitch: Use a sewing machine to assemble unique plushies, choosing everything from the fabric patterns to the tiny trinkets that give them personality.
    • Managing “Los Soñadores”: Run your shop, haggle with customers, and build a reputation that brings the town’s most interesting characters to your door.
    • Exploring Urban Legends: The story is deeply rooted in the local legend of “The Cave of Salamanca,” a myth involving hidden magic and mystery that unfolds as you interact with your clientele.

    Why This Campaign is Worth Watching

    Uprising Studios is leaning heavily into the “human” element of development. They’ve been vocal about their “No AI” policy, ensuring that every piece of art and music in the game is handcrafted by human artists.

    The Kickstarter rewards are equally charming. Backers can snag everything from digital letters for loved ones to physical handmade plushies and pins. If you’re feeling particularly creative, higher tiers even allow you to work with the devs to turn your own real-life pet into an in-game plushie or become a character in the streets of Salamanca.

    Two Paths, One Legacy

    One of the most intriguing features revealed is the “Impossible Paths.” Your choices—and the plushies you create—will influence the fate of the city. Will you follow the path of tradition or embrace the mysterious “lady without a name” to change Salamanca’s future?

    With a gorgeous Art Nouveau aesthetic and a soundtrack inspired by 1910s Castilian folk music, Toymaker: Threads of Joy looks like the perfect digital escape for fans of Strange Horticulture or Potion Craft.

    Want to help bring the magic to life? You can head over to the Toymaker Kickstarter Page to check out the new trailer and back the project.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/gvzIa or here on Kickstarter – https://shorturl.at/AVJDw

    #UprisingGames #ToymakerThreadsofJoy #Kickstarter #toymaker #plushiegame #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Forge of the Fae Shows Off Its Enchanting, Magical Celtic World in a New Trailer!

    Forge of the Fae Shows Off Its Enchanting, Magical Celtic World in a New Trailer!

    The indie RPG scene is currently in a golden age, and Datadyne is looking to claim its crown with Forge of the Fae. Today, publisher Deck13 Spotlight released a brand-new trailer that gives us our deepest look yet at this stunning JRPG-inspired adventure.

    Set in a world heavily inspired by 19th-century Ireland, the game blends industrial grit with ancient Celtic mysticism. If you’ve been craving the pixel-art charm of Sea of Stars or Chained Echoes, you’ll want to keep reading.

    A World in Turmoil

    The trailer introduces us to Fiora, a brilliant young inventor living through a period of intense social unrest. As a miners’ strike spirals into violence and mysterious disappearances plague the land, Fiora sets out to uncover the truth.

    What makes Forge of the Fae stand out is how it weaves its narrative:

    Celtic Folklore: The world is teeming with Fae, and the tension between humans and the magical world is reaching a breaking point.

    Impactful Choices: The developers have emphasised that player decisions aren’t just for show—they will actively shape the story’s direction.

    Steam-Meets-Magic: Fiora is accompanied by a customisable Mechanical Faerie, blending her engineering skills with the world’s natural magic.

    Strategy Meets Style: The Combat

    The new footage highlights a combat system that is fast-paced but rewards careful planning. It’s a classic turn-based setup, but with a few modern twists that keep the flow feeling fresh:

    ARC Crystal System: Players can align skills and magic to customise their party’s battle style.

    Adrenaline System: This allows for powerful, versatile abilities that can turn the tide of a boss fight in an instant.

    Environmental Puzzles: Beyond the combat, the trailer showed off intricate puzzles scattered throughout the world, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny of its lush, pixelated landscapes.

    Alpha Access and Release Info

    In a huge milestone for the team, Datadyne confirmed that the Alpha Build has officially been sent out to Kickstarter backers. This version covers roughly the first third of the game, allowing the community to get hands-on with the mechanics for the first time.

    “Even in its early stages, it is incredibly well-crafted and pulls all the right triggers,” says Michael Hoss, Head of Product at Deck13 Spotlight.

    While a final release date is still being honed, Forge of the Fae is currently slated for a 2026/2027 release on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.

    Are you ready to dive into 1800s Ireland and uncover the secrets of the Fae? Let us know your thoughts on the trailer in the comments!

    Would you like me to find the specific link to the new trailer or the Steam page so you can add it to the post?

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

    #ForgeoftheFae #Deck13Spotlight #Datadyne #Kickstarter #JRPG #prhound #games #gaming #gamers #platformgames #gameplay #demogames #videogames #arcadegames

  • Cassette-Future Chaos: Contact Protocol Demo Lands on Steam!

    Cassette-Future Chaos: Contact Protocol Demo Lands on Steam!

    The space lanes just got a lot more dangerous—and a lot more bureaucratic. If you’ve ever wondered what Papers, Please would look like if it were set on a gritty industrial starship heading toward Jupiter, your wait is over. London-based indie outfit Cold Zephyr Games has officially released the first public demo for Contact Protocol, and it’s available to download on Steam right now.

    Born from the corridors of the London College of Communication, Cold Zephyr Games is a studio to watch. Their debut title plunges you into a “cassette-future” solar system where humanity is strip-mining the stars and human life is just another line on a corporate ledger.

    What is Contact Protocol?

    You play as the security officer aboard the PALE HORSE, a Galileo Corporation vessel transporting miners to Ganymede. But this isn’t a high-octane dogfighter. This is a starship job simulator and investigation game where your primary weapons are your notebook, your digital records, and your gut instinct.

    As ships approach your sector, it’s your job to:

    Verify Identities: Cross-reference ship details against company records.

    Manage Risks: Spot the difference between a legitimate transport and a corporate saboteur.

    Make Hard Choices: Decide who passes and who gets turned away—but remember, the ships you’re judging are making the same decisions about you.

    What’s in the Demo?

    The demo offers a substantial slice of Act 1, giving players about 40 minutes of gameplay to test their investigative mettle. Here is a breakdown of what to expect:

    The Vibes: Gritty, Tense, and Analogue

    The game’s aesthetic is pure “cassette-future”—think chunky hardware, flickering CRT monitors, and the clatter of mechanical keys. It’s late-stage capitalism in deep space, featuring a soundtrack by Rob Marr and art direction by Peter Wood that perfectly captures the isolation of the space lanes.

    The stakes are high: an unknown group has begun systematically destroying corporate ships. Are you dealing with Martian nationalists, space pirates, or a corporate conspiracy?

    How to Play

    The Contact Protocol demo is PC-only and can be found on their Steam Page. The full game is currently slated for a late summer 2026 release.

    Pro Tip: Keep a close eye on your personal notebook. In this game, the information you don’t report might be just as important as the data you do.

    Find out more here – http://coldzephyr.co.uk/ or here on Kickstarter – https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/contactprotocol/contact-protocol

    #ColdZephyrGames #ContactProtocol #starshipjobsimulator #scifi #kickstarter #games #gaming #gamers #platformgames #gameplay #demogames #videogames #arcadegames

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

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

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

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

    A Widow’s Wrath Against Celtic Myth

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

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

    What’s New in the Next Fest Demo?

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

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

    Precision Platforming Meets 2D Mayhem

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

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

    How to Play

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

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

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

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

  • Shadows Arise: The Darkhaven Kickstarter & Demo are Live!

    Shadows Arise: The Darkhaven Kickstarter & Demo are Live!

    The wait is over for fans of dark, gritty action RPGs. Moon Beast Productions—the powerhouse studio founded by the legendary creators behind Diablo I, Diablo II, and Torchlight—has officially launched the Kickstarter campaign for Darkhaven.

    Alongside the funding drive, the team has taken the bold step of releasing an “unconventionally unfiltered” pre-alpha demo on Steam, giving players a raw look at the future of the genre.

    What is Darkhaven?

    Darkhaven isn’t just another click-and-loot clone. It’s a “next-generation” isometric ARPG set in a world where civilisation has completely collapsed. You aren’t just fighting monsters; you are surviving in a persistent, evolving sandbox.

    Key Features to Get Excited About:

    • Fully Deformable Terrain: Forget invisible walls. You can dig through the earth, tunnel into dungeons, and even redirect flows of lava to reshape the battlefield.
    • Dynamic World Events: The world isn’t static. A “Necropolis” event might trigger, slowly turning the entire map into an undead wasteland unless you stop it.
    • Freedom of Movement: For the first time in an isometric ARPG of this scale, your character can jump, climb, and swim. Verticality is a core tactical element, not just a visual one.
    • Expressive Loot: The devs are moving away from the “+1% damage” incrementalism of modern games. Expect “bold” loot that changes how your skills function and inspires entirely new builds.

    The Demo: A Raw First Look

    This isn’t a polished “vertical slice.” Moon Beast is letting you into the engine room.

    • Where to play: Available now on Steam.
    • The Content: Play as the Witch class, progressing up to Level 8.
    • The Depth: You’ll have access to 6 skills across 3 skill trees, focusing on mobility and resource management.
    • Multiplayer: A limited, experimental multiplayer mode is included to help the devs stress-test their servers.

    “There’s dust on the edges, but there’s also real experimentation. Our goal is to stay true to the core of classic Diablo while deliberately breaking from the pack.” — Erich Schaefer, Co-Founder & Chief Creative Officer

    Support the Journey on Kickstarter

    The Kickstarter campaign seeks to raise $500,000 by March 21, 2026, to accelerate development toward a Q4 2026 Early Access launch.

    Backer rewards include everything from Early Access keys and digital soundtracks to more exclusive tiers that let you help design in-game items or monsters. If you’ve been looking for an ARPG that prioritises player agency and “too good to be true” loot, now is the time to make your voice heard.

    Find out more here:

    Steam – https://shorturl.at/x91Xn

    Kickstarter – https://shorturl.at/z5HpB

    #Darkhaven #darkfantasy #ARPG #ancientrelics #MoonBeastProductions #rpg #steam #kickstarter #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #demogames #videogames