TECHMASH

Tag: #NintendoSwitch

  • Wario, Puzzles, and Nostalgia: Nintendo Classics Drops Major July 2026 Update!

    Wario, Puzzles, and Nostalgia: Nintendo Classics Drops Major July 2026 Update!

    The summer heat isn’t the only thing sizzling this July. Nintendo has just dropped its latest bi-monthly Nintendo Classics update for Nintendo Switch Online (NSO), and if you are a fan of handheld retro goodness, you are in for an absolute treat.

    Whether you’re playing on your trusty original Switch or rocking the glorious new Nintendo Switch 2, this month’s drop leans heavily into Game Boy nostalgia, a massive win for Wario fans, and a double dose of puzzle addiction.

    Let’s break down everything that just landed on the service!

    Game Boy Library (Standard NSO Tier)

    For standard NSO subscribers, three distinct flavours of portable history have been added today. There is an absolute heavyweight headlining this trio:

    Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3

    Forget being the side antagonist—1994 was the year Wario officially stole the spotlight. While technically a “threequel” to Super Mario Land, this game threw Mario to the wayside and established Wario as a greedy, shoulder-bashing antihero. You’ll explore Kitchen Island, hunt down hidden treasure chests, and use power-ups like the Jet Pot and Dragon Pot to secure enough gold to build a massive castle. Thanks to this update, the Switch ecosystem is officially the definitive home for Wario fans.

    The Sword of Hope II

    If you’re looking for a deep, retro RPG fix, Kemco’s 1992 classic is a fascinating addition. It’s a traditional, first-person dungeon-crawler RPG wrapped in an old-school adventure game format. It’s got a bit of that classic 90s jank, but it’s a stellar piece of history for true RPG completionists.

    Fortified Zone

    Ever wondered what The Legend of Zelda would look like if you swapped Link’s Master Sword for an assault rifle? Jaleco’s Fortified Zone is a top-down, action-packed shooter where you navigate a massive military complex, swap characters on the fly, and blast through waves of enemies. It’s snappy, tough, and oddly addictive.

    Game Boy Advance Library (NSO + Expansion Pack Tier)

    For those on the Expansion Pack tier, Nintendo has resurrected a legendary handheld double-feature that is bound to destroy your free time.

    Dr. Mario & Puzzle League

    Technically two incredible games in one cartridge, this GBA relic features gorgeous spritework and perfectly refined puzzle gameplay. On one hand, you get the vitamin-dropping, virus-busting chaos of Dr. Mario. On the other hand, you get the frantic, block-swapping intensity of Puzzle League (perfectly optimised for handheld play). Consider this a public health warning: your battery life will suffer because of this drop.

    (Bonus note: If you happen to be playing on a Japanese account, Nintendo swapped this double-pack out for AlphaDream’s cult-classic GBA RPG, Tomato Adventure—the literal predecessor to the Mario & Luigi series!)

    The Verdict: A Great Summer for Retro Heads

    Following the hype of Donkey Kong 64 hitting the N64 app recently, this handheld-focused July drop balances the library beautifully. While we are still patiently waiting for Nintendo to drop the next batch of GameCube titles for the Switch 2, filling out the Game Boy and GBA libraries with top-tier gems like Wario Land keeps the NSO value proposition incredibly high.

    The update is live right now. Update your apps, dust off your digital cartridges, and let us know in the comments which one you’re booting up first!

    Find out more here

    #Nintendo #NintendoSwitch #NintendoSwitch2 #RetroGaming #WarioLand #GameBoy #GBA #NintendoClassics #GamingNews #TechMash

  • Autumn Vibes Incoming: Exploring Minecraft’s New Dappled Forest Biome

    Autumn Vibes Incoming: Exploring Minecraft’s New Dappled Forest Biome

    Grab your compasses and pack your gear, fellow Crafters! Mojang has just officially pulled back the curtain on its latest ecosystem, and it is an absolute dream for anyone who loves cosy aesthetics and fresh building materials. Move over, Pale Garden—it’s time to step into the warm, sunlit expanse of the Dappled Forest.

    Currently rolling out in Java Snapshots and Bedrock Preview/Beta versions, this new biome brings an autumn-inspired, burnished aesthetic to the Overworld. Here is everything you need to know about Minecraft’s latest wilderness drop!

    A Vibrant Autumn Aesthetic

    Found bordering colder biomes, the Dappled Forest stands out immediately thanks to its rich, seasonal colour palette. The star of the show here is the brand-new Poplar Tree. Unlike standard trees, Poplars generate with three gorgeous, distinct leaf variations:

    • Red Poplar Leaves
    • Orange Poplar Leaves
    • Yellow Poplar Leaves

    Walking through the forest, you’ll even notice matching falling leaf particles drifting from the canopy, fully immersing you in that crisp, autumn atmosphere.

    New Blocks, Warm Grey Wood, and Long-Awaited Wool Slabs!

    For the builders in the community, this drop is a massive win. Chopping down Poplar trees grants you a brand-new warm grey wood set, perfect for adding subtle contrast to your rustic builds.

    But that’s not all. The Dappled Forest also introduces:

    • Shelf Mushrooms: These new fungi grow right on the sides of living and fallen Poplar trees. They come in small and large variants (which have a slight, bed-like bounciness when stepped on!) and can be used to whip up suspicious stews.
    • Red Shrubs: A new decorative plant block to add a pop of colour to your gardens.
    • Wool Slabs & Wool Stairs: Yes, you read that right! Mojang has finally answered our prayers, introducing full stair and slab variants for all 16 colours of wool. Cosy interior design just got a serious upgrade.

    Loot and Lore: The Abandoned Camps

    The wilderness feels a little more lived-in with the addition of the Abandoned Camp structure. While these camps can spawn across various biomes (like Meadows and Taigas) with customised regional designs, the Dappled Forest variant is uniquely atmospheric.

    Survival Tip: Scout out these camps to find barrels and chests filled with loot, but more importantly, look for the new Straw Bed and Cushions.

    The Cushion allows you to finally sit down properly anywhere in the world. Meanwhile, the Straw Bed (crafted from hay bales) serves as a brilliant one-time-use survival tool: it lets you sleep through the night without resetting your spawn point. Just keep in mind, it breaks after one use!

    The Verdict

    The Dappled Forest is a wonderfully safe, incredibly cosy addition to Minecraft’s universe. It may not feature a terrifying new boss, but it delivers exactly what sandbox players and builders love: atmosphere, gorgeous new block palettes, and excellent quality-of-life items.

    Have you explored the Dappled Forest in the latest snapshot yet? What are you planning to build with the new warm grey Poplar wood? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #Minecraft #GamingNews #DappledForest #Mojang #MinecraftUpdate #CozyGaming #TechMash #PCGaming #Xbox #PlayStation #NintendoSwitch

  • Dominate the Pitch: Captain Tsubasa 2: World Fighters Drops Epic Mode Introduction Trailer!

    Dominate the Pitch: Captain Tsubasa 2: World Fighters Drops Epic Mode Introduction Trailer!

    Anime soccer fans, it is time to lace up your boots and stretch those hamstrings. Bandai Namco and Tamsoft have just unleashed the official Mode Introduction Trailer for CAPTAIN TSUBASA 2: WORLD FIGHTERS, giving us a massive breakdown of exactly how we’ll be conquering the global stage this summer.

    If you thought Rise of New Champions was wild, this sequel is taking the over-the-top, gravity-defying World Youth Arc action to an entirely different level.

    Check out the breakdown of the major modes revealed in the trailer ahead of the game’s August 28, 2026 launch.

    The Game Modes Breakdown

    “NEW STARS” Story Mode: Write Your Own Legend

    The crown jewel of the single-player experience is the NEW STARS route. Instead of just watching the iconic World Youth Arc unfold, you get to live it.

    • Create-A-Player: Build your own fully customizable avatar from scratch.
    • Join Team Japan: Step onto the pitch alongside Tsubasa Ozora, Hyuga, and Misaki.
    • Build Bonds: Form friendships with legendary manga characters to unlock and learn their signature, goalkeeper-destroying super moves.

    “LEGENDARY/ADVANCED” & “RIVALS EPISODE”

    If you’re a purist who wants more than just the standard manga adaptation, you’re in luck. Original series creator Yoichi Takahashi has personally supervised brand-new, completely original storylines exclusive to this game. Furthermore, RIVALS EPISODE offers unique side stories focusing on international rivals, letting you experience their brutal training arcs as they prepare to take down Japan.

    Ultimate Customisation: Player & Team Edit

    Want to give your custom character a wild aesthetic or completely shake up a squad’s identity? The PLAYER EDIT and TEAM EDIT suites give you total creative freedom over cosmetics, physique, and signature skill loadouts. You can even hit up the in-game shop to snag legendary national team gear.

    Practice & Regular Match

    Whether you need to master the timing of the new Chain System in PRACTICE Mode or you want to jump straight into the action, the game features local and online REGULAR MATCH options to test your skills against players worldwide.

    A Massive World Stage

    The trailer also officially confirmed the massive scale of this sequel. We are getting 22 national teams and over 110 playable characters, complete with more than 150 stunning, anime-accurate cutscenes.

    Heavy hitters like Brazil, Argentina, France, and Germany are back, alongside newly spotlighted teams like Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Cameroon, and Sweden.

    Key Gameplay Reminder: Don’t forget that the core gameplay has been revamped with a six-trajectory guessing game between shooters and goalkeepers, a devastating “BREAK” mechanic to permanently lower goalie stamina, and the high-risk, high-reward Chain System.

    When Can We Play?

    CAPTAIN TSUBASA 2: WORLD FIGHTERS is dropping on August 28, 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam. Pre-orders are live right now, with early bonuses including the 2026 Japan National Team jersey and an early unlock for the Brazil Youth squad.

    Are you going to build a powerhouse midfielder or a striker to rival Hyuga? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #CaptainTsubasa2 #WorldFighters #BandaiNamco #GamingNews #AnimeGaming #TechMash #PS5 #XboxSeriesX #NintendoSwitch #Steam #WorldYouthArc

  • Do a Barrel Roll! Tetris 99 55th MAXIMUS CUP Takes Flight with Star Fox Cross-Over

    Do a Barrel Roll! Tetris 99 55th MAXIMUS CUP Takes Flight with Star Fox Cross-Over

    If you thought the battle royale chaos of Tetris 99 couldn’t get any more intense, it’s time to check your radar. Nintendo has officially dropped the gameplay trailer for the Tetris® 99 – 55th MAXIMUS CUP, and this time, the iconic puzzle arena is crossing streams with the legendary Star Fox franchise!

    The latest trailer gives us a hyper-focused look at the high-stakes world of competitive puzzling, proving that survival in the arena requires both the reflexes of an elite pilot and the cold calculation of a tactical mastermind.

    Check out everything you need to know about the upcoming event below.

    The 55th MAXIMUS CUP Gameplay Trailer Breakdown

    The new trailer highlights the brutal, fast-paced momentum management that defines Tetris 99 at a competitive level. Visually, the event features striking, bright Tetrimino colours biting into a darker, space-themed arena backdrop designed to keep your focus locked in. The sound design completely leans into the crossover, matching line clears, garbage sends, and player eliminations with crisp, classic Star Fox audio cues.

    The core takeaway from the footage is a major emphasis on strategic aggression. It isn’t just about clearing your own board anymore; the trailer demonstrates how top-tier players will need to deliberately target opponents, timing their garbage lines to disrupt rivals and force devastating chain reactions.

    Event Details & How to Unlock the Star Fox Theme

    The goal of the 55th MAXIMUS CUP is simple: play online, survive, and collect points. Once you accumulate 100 event points, you will permanently unlock a custom Star Fox theme featuring exclusive artwork, music, and custom-designed Tetriminos.

    • Start Time: Friday, July 10, 2026, at 12:00 AM PT / 3:00 AM ET / 8:00 AM BST
    • End Time: Monday, July 13, 2026, at 11:59 PM PT (July 14 at 2:59 AM ET)
    • Requirement: An active Nintendo Switch Online membership and an internet connection.

    TechMash Tip: You don’t need to be a esports pro to get the reward! Points are awarded based on your final placement in each match. While a victory royale will net you the theme immediately, simply consistently participating over the weekend will steadily push your point total to 100.

    Whether you are a seasoned Tetris 99 veteran or a Star Fox fan looking to expand your collection of crossover designs, this weekend’s cup promises to be a disciplined test of precision, sequencing, and adaptability under pressure. Fire up your Switch, clear your queue, and get ready to defend the Lylat System… one block at a time.

    What do you think of the new Star Fox crossover theme? Let us know your high scores in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #Tetris99 #MaximusCup #StarFox #NintendoSwitch #GamingNews #NintendoSwitchOnline #Tetris #RetroGaming #TechMash

  • Shhh… It’s Console Time! Scholar Adventure: Mystery of Silence Lands on Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox

    Shhh… It’s Console Time! Scholar Adventure: Mystery of Silence Lands on Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox

    If you’ve been craving a bite-sized, atmospheric mystery that throws it back to the golden age of 90s graphic adventures, it’s time to put your sleuthing hat on.

    Following a successful stint on PC, developer Making Enemies and publisher DevilishGames have officially brought their dark, pixel-art point-and-click thriller, Scholar Adventure: Mystery of Silence, to consoles!

    You can now unravel the secrets of the abbey on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.

    What is Scholar Adventure: Mystery of Silence?

    The game puts you in the shoes of William, a young and impulsively curious writer desperate for a brilliant plot to kickstart his literary career. His hunt for inspiration leads him to a secluded, moody island monastery.

    Once known for its beautiful, echoing choirs, the abbey has fallen completely silent. Following the mysterious madness of its former abbot, the monks have taken a strict, permanent vow of silence. But what starts as a quiet retreat for William quickly spirals into something much darker. Beneath the cold stone walls lies a disturbing secret that was never meant to see the light of day.

    Check out the eerie vibe in the official trailer below:

    Why You Should Play It

    • 90s Retro Vibe: Built using the PowerQuest engine, it embraces detailed, moody 2D pixel art and inventory-based environmental puzzles that feel straight out of a classic LucasArts or Sierra title.
    • A Focused, Intense Experience: No filler here. The game is designed as a short, punchy narrative adventure lasting between 1 to 3 hours—perfect for a single, atmospheric evening of gaming.
    • Immersive Audio: Since the monks won’t talk to you, the narrative relies heavily on a haunting, orchestral soundtrack composed by Antonio Vozmediano.
    • Multi-Language Support: Playable in English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Catalan, Basque, and Galician.

    Whether you want to solve puzzles on the go with the Nintendo Switch or enjoy the gloomy landscapes on your next-gen setup, this indie gem is well worth your time. Grab your copy on your preferred console store today and break the silence!

    Find out more here

    #ScholarAdventure #MysteryOfSilence #IndieGames #PointAndClick #RetroGaming #NintendoSwitch #PS5 #Xbox #DevilishGames #MakingEnemies #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

    • 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

    • 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

    • 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

    • Master the Monochrome: ‘Helix: Descent N Ascent’ Brings Mind-Bending Puzzles to Steam and Switch This July

      Master the Monochrome: ‘Helix: Descent N Ascent’ Brings Mind-Bending Puzzles to Steam and Switch This July

      Indie game aficionados, clear your calendars. Belgian developer Badass Mongoose has officially locked in the launch date for its highly anticipated title, Helix: Descent N Ascent. Mark your calendars for 23 July 2026, when this strikingly beautiful, non-violent puzzle-adventure simultaneously hits PC via Steam and the Nintendo Switch.

      If you are a fan of rich atmospheres, unique mechanics, and artistic storytelling, this is definitely one to add to your wishlist.

      What is Helix: Descent N Ascent?

      In Helix: Descent N Ascent, you awaken in a dull, dark, and disembodied world. While isolation seems absolute at first, you quickly cross paths with a mysterious doppelganger—a being who looks exactly like you but always seems to operate at complete odds with your actions. Is he a friend, a foe, or a mirror to your own subconscious?

      To uncover the truth behind this twin entity and the ruins of a lost civilisation, players must navigate a barren landscape by unlocking and mastering an intricate power system.

      Key Features to Get Excited For:

      • The Mix-and-Match Puzzle System: The core of Helix relies on a clever mechanics loop. Players can discover and combine different embodied powers, giving them up to 25 distinctive ways to interact with their surroundings across three different tiers of complexity.
      • Striking Monochrome Aesthetics: Visually, the game is a love letter to vintage print media. It draws heavy inspiration from 1980s black-and-white indie comics, 1990s manga, and classic 1970s Franco-Belgian comic art.
      • A Masterclass Soundtrack: The dreamlike, serene, and occasionally eerie atmosphere is stitched together by an exceptional score from acclaimed composer Jim Guthrie (Superbrothers: Sword & Sworcery EP, Nobody Saves the World).
      • An Emotional, Peaceful Journey: Stripping away typical video game violence, Helix chooses to challenge your brain and soul instead. It uses its environment to weave a quiet narrative about identity, relationships, and deep solitude.

      The Road to a Polished Launch

      The team at Badass Mongoose initially eyed an earlier window, but following a massively successful demo run during Steam Next Fest, the developers made the decision to take a few extra months to add more scale and polish. The delay ensured that both PC and Nintendo Switch players get the definitive, flawlessly optimised version on day one.

      Whether you want to play cosy in handheld mode on your Switch or dive into the stunning, hand-drawn details on your PC rig, the wait is almost over. Get ready to descend into the mysteries and ascend to the light next month!

      Launch Date: 23 July 2026

      Platforms: PC (Steam) & Nintendo Switch

      Developer/Publisher: Badass Mongoose

      Check out the latest trailer on their official channels and head over to Steam to wishlist Helix: Descent N Ascent today!

      Find out more here

      #IndieGames #GamingNews #HelixDescentNAscent #BadassMongoose #NintendoSwitch #SteamGames #PuzzleAdventure #JimGuthrie #MonochromeGaming #CozyGames #TechMash

    • Dialling Into the Finale: Schrödinger’s Call Chapter 5 Trailer Teases an Emotional Conclusion

      Dialling Into the Finale: Schrödinger’s Call Chapter 5 Trailer Teases an Emotional Conclusion

      If you’ve been following the beautifully haunting journey of Schrödinger’s Call, you might want to grab a box of tissues. Independent publisher Shueisha Games and indie developer Acrobatic Chirimenjako have just dropped a brand-new trailer for Chapter 5, giving players a dramatic, bittersweet look at the narrative adventure’s upcoming emotional climax.

      Check out what’s in store for the finale below.

      The Beginning of the End

      For the uninitiated, Schrödinger’s Call is a unique, picture-book-style visual novel set in the final 21 nanoseconds before the moon crashes into Earth, ending all life. Players step into the shoes of Mary, a girl with amnesia who finds herself guided by a mysterious cat named Hamlet. Together, they act as the “World’s Last Confidant,” answering an old telephone to listen to the final regrets, unspoken words, and raw emotions of souls caught between life and death.

      The newly released Chapter 5 trailer promises to bring the central mysteries to a head. It teases the long-awaited truth behind Mary’s forgotten past, her strange connection to Hamlet, and the ultimate meaning behind the falling moon. It’s the beginning of the end for Mary’s journey, challenging players to finally answer the last calls and put down the phone.

      Available Now on Switch and PC

      If you haven’t started this beautifully melancholy adventure yet, there is no better time to dive in. Developed by a passionate three-person team, the game won the Grand Prize at the Shueisha Game Creators CAMP and has been praised for its theatrical presentation and intimate approach to grief, love, and human connection.

      Schrödinger’s Call is currently available to purchase on PC via Steam and the Nintendo Switch.

      Are you ready to witness the end of the world? Let us know your theories on Mary and Hamlet in the comments below!

      Find out more here

      #SchrodingersCall #ShueishaGames #AcrobaticChirimenjako #IndieGames #GamingNews #VisualNovel #NintendoSwitch #SteamGames #CozyGames #TechMash

    • Shhh… ‘Scholar Adventure: Mystery of Silence’ Brings its Dark Secrets to Consoles on July 3

      Shhh… ‘Scholar Adventure: Mystery of Silence’ Brings its Dark Secrets to Consoles on July 3

      If you are a fan of retro aesthetics, creeping suspense, and the golden age of 90s point-and-click gaming, you are in for a treat this summer. Publisher DevilishGames and developer Making Enemies have officially announced that their atmospheric indie hit, Scholar Adventure: Mystery of Silence, is breaking its PC boundaries and heading to major consoles on July 3.

      Whether you play on the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, or Xbox Series X|S, you will soon be able to dive into this bite-sized psychological mystery from the comfort of your couch.

      Check out what to expect from this haunting narrative journey below!

      Uncover the Secrets of a Silent Abbey

      In this first instalment of the Scholar Adventure series, players step into the shoes of William, a young and impulsively curious writer desperate for a brilliant premise to launch his debut novel. His quest for literary inspiration leads him to a secluded, rocky island housing a remote monastery.

      Once a place filled with beautiful songs of worship, the abbey has been plunged into total hush after its former abbot went mad and imposed a strict, absolute vow of silence on all the monks. What starts as a peaceful retreat for William quickly spirals into a dark, unsettling investigation. Within these cold stone walls lies a deeply buried secret—one that was never meant to be uncovered.

      Retro Vibes and Dark Humour

      Scholar Adventure: Mystery of Silence is a love letter to the classic graphic adventures of the 1990s. The game beautifully blends:

      • Atmospheric Pixel Art: Detailed, gloomy environments that perfectly capture a sense of isolation and dread under a full moon.
      • Intricate Soundscapes: A solemn, orchestral soundtrack composed by Antonio Vozmediano that fills the void of the unvoiced characters.
      • Classic Gameplay: A sleek, intuitive one-click interface featuring environmental and inventory-based puzzles, complete with a unique “ear” icon to listen in on the abbey’s hidden echoes.
      • Focused Storytelling: With a tight runtime of roughly 1 to 3 hours, it delivers a punchy, highly immersive narrative experience with touches of black humour and multiple endings.

      Available for Pre-order and Wishlist Now!

      Following its initial successful launch on Steam, the team is thrilled to bring this eerie short story to a wider audience, laying down the groundwork for future entries in the Scholar Adventure universe.

      The countdown to July 3 is on! You can already wishlist the game right now on the PlayStation Store and Nintendo eShop, or lock in your pre-order via the Microsoft Store. Will you break the vow of silence to find the truth?

      Find out more here

      #GamingNews #ScholarAdventure #MysteryOfSilence #IndieGames #DevilishGames #MakingEnemies #PointAndClick #RetroGaming #NintendoSwitch #PS5 #Xbox #TechMash