TECHMASH

Tag: #NintendoSwitch

  • Chill Out With the Witches: HYKE: Northern Light(s) Drops Free “A Witch’s Chill Time” Update This Week

    Chill Out With the Witches: HYKE: Northern Light(s) Drops Free “A Witch’s Chill Time” Update This Week

    If you’ve been braving the frozen wastes and battling through the intense pixel-art world of HYKE: Northern Light(s), it is time to put down the sword and pick up a towel. Aniplex Inc. and Akatsuki Games Inc. have officially announced that their hit 2D top-down action RPG is receiving a major free content update titled “A Witch’s chill time” on April 30th.

    After the heavy lifting of the main campaign, our heroes are heading to the hot springs for some much-needed R&R—but in the world of HYKE, even a vacation comes with its own set of mysteries.

    What’s New in the Forbidden Areas?

    Set after the resolution of the main story, the update finds Hyke and the group guided by an invitation from Aurora into a mysterious new realm. The goal? Creating the “ideal hot spring.” Of course, getting there involves more than just checking into a hotel.

    The “A Witch’s chill time” update brings a healthy dose of new content to the table:

    • A Brand New Story: Explore a post-game narrative focused on tranquillity and teamwork.
    • New Encounters: Meet new characters and face unique challenges tucked away in the hot spring location.
    • Gameplay Elements: Fresh mechanics designed specifically for this new environment.
    • A New Trailer: Aniplex has released a first-look trailer showcasing the beautiful pixel-art hot springs and the cosy vibes awaiting players.

    Where to Play

    The update will be available as a free download across almost all current platforms:

    • PC (via Steam)
    • Nintendo Switch
    • PlayStation 5

    Note for Mobile Gamers: While the update hits consoles and PC on April 30th, the Apple Arcade version is currently slated to receive this content later this year.

    About HYKE: Northern Light(s)

    For those who haven’t dived in yet, HYKE: Northern Light(s) is a gorgeous collaborative project developed by Blast Edge Games. It follows the journey of Hyke, a white-haired girl traversing a world devastated by a historic war between humanity and witches.

    The game stands out for its fluid top-down combat, “Camp” management system, and a striking “dot art” aesthetic that feels both nostalgic and modern.

    Ready to soak in the mystery? Keep an eye on your updates this Thursday, April 30th, and prepare to discover what the witches do when they finally get a chance to relax.

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/2680380

    #AniplexInc #AkatsukiGames #HYKENorthernLights #AWitchschilltime #freeupdate #PC #Steam #NintendoSwitch #PlayStation #AppleArcade #2Dtopdownaction #pixel #RPG

  • From Skylanders to Deep Space: Voidling Bound Set for June 9 Launch

    From Skylanders to Deep Space: Voidling Bound Set for June 9 Launch

    The team that once brought toys to life is now bringing alien monsters to your PC. Hatchery Games, a studio founded by veterans from the Skylanders franchise (specifically hailing from Beenox), has officially entered the final development stretch for their debut title: Voidling Bound.

    Mark your calendars—this sci-fi creature-collecting ARPG is slated to warp onto Steam and the Epic Games Store on June 9, 2026.

    Reinventing the Monster Tamer

    If you’re expecting a cosy turn-based stroll through tall grass, think again. Voidling Bound is a high-octane third-person shooter that puts you in the boots of a “Space Wrangler.” Instead of just commanding your creatures from the sidelines, you form a neural bond and take direct control of your Voidlings in fast-paced combat.

    Humanity is on the brink of extinction thanks to a nasty interstellar parasite, and these Voidlings are our only hope for a “Plan B.” You’ll be tasked with cleansing vibrant, handcrafted planets of corruption by shooting, slashing, and slamming your way through “bubonic” swarms.

    Deep Evolution and Customisation

    Drawing on their experience with character-driven gameplay, the devs at Hatchery Games are going all-in on customisation:

    • Branching Evolution: There are 62 species paths to explore. Your choices affect elemental alignment, appearance, and combat abilities.
    • The Splicing Station: This is where things get truly “mad scientist.” You can mix and match body parts, colours, and eye genes, while equipping “Ability Genes” to create synergies that the devs describe as potentially “game-breaking.”
    • Breeding System: Hatchlings inherit attributes from their parents, allowing you to min-max your squad for the endgame challenges.

    The Final Push: Try the Updated Demo

    With the June 9 release date looming, Hatchery Games recently updated their PC demo on Steam. If you want a head start, the good news is that progress carries over to the full game.

    The latest version includes:

    • An updated animated narrative opening.
    • The new Gilick’s Cryo Branch area.
    • Significant performance optimisations to ensure those alien explosions look crisp.

    “We wanted to reinvent the monster-taming genre by giving players the power to be the creature,” the studio shared in a recent developer update.

    While the PC launch is the immediate priority, Hatchery Games has confirmed that versions for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and Switch 2 are planned to follow later.

    Ready to start your collection? You can wishlist Voidling Bound on Steam now and prepare for the parasite purge this June.

    Are you excited to see a more action-oriented take on the creature-collection genre?

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/2004680

    #HatcheryGames #VoidlingBound #Playtest #Steam #scifi #xbox #playstation #nintendoswitch #videogames #gamers #gaming

  • Gotta Go Fast! SpeedRunners 2: King of Speed Races into July Release

    Gotta Go Fast! SpeedRunners 2: King of Speed Races into July Release

    The era of grappling hooks and ruined friendships is officially entering the next generation. Publisher tinyBuild and developer Fair Play Labs (the minds behind Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl) have finally dropped the starting flag: SpeedRunners 2: King of Speed will officially launch this July 2026.

    The announcement, which arrived alongside a high-octane trailer during the ID@Xbox April Showcase, confirms that the sequel to the 2013 cult classic will be available on Steam, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch.

    Even better news for subscribers? It’s a Day One release on Xbox Game Pass for both PC and console.

    What’s New in the Sequel?

    While the original SpeedRunners was defined by its tight 2D mechanics and frantic four-player races, King of Speed is scaling everything up. Here is what we can expect when we hit the tracks this summer:

    • 8-Player Chaos: For the first time, you can now race against seven other rivals (local or online), doubling the screen-shrinking intensity.
    • Vibrant New Visuals: The game has moved to a high-definition style with 3D backgrounds, all while maintaining the 2D “retrofuture superhero” aesthetic inspired by the 1960s.
    • Refined Gameplay: Advanced techniques like slope jumping and wall grappling are back. Fair Play Labs has worked closely with original creators DoubleDutch Games to ensure the physics feel as snappy as fans remember.
    • Better Netcode: A major focus has been placed on improving the online experience to handle the increased player count without lag ruining your perfectly timed freeze ray.

    Platforms & Future Tech

    While the “Big Three” and PC are getting the game in July, tinyBuild also teased that the game will be coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 later this year, making it one of the early competitive titles confirmed for Nintendo’s next-gen hardware.

    “SpeedRunners was the game that kickstarted tinyBuild’s publishing journey 12 years ago, and we are thrilled to breathe new life into this timeless franchise.” — Alex Nichiporchik, CEO of tinyBuild

    Can’t Wait Until July?

    If your grappling hook finger is already itching, a free demo is currently available on Steam. The developers have been actively patching the demo based on community feedback, recently balancing the speed and acceleration to find that “Goldilocks” zone between the original’s feel and the sequel’s new momentum.

    Whether you’re a veteran Falcon main or a newcomer looking to knock your friends off-screen, July is looking like a very fast month.

    Will you be picking this up on Game Pass or grabbing the Switch version for local sessions? Let us know in the comments!

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/3183760

    #tinyBuild #FairPlayLabs #SpeedRunners2KingofSpeed #Steam #PlayStation #Xbox #NintendoSwitch #videogames #gamers #gaming

  • Golf With Your Friends 2 is coming this autumn

    Golf With Your Friends 2 is coming this autumn

    Ready your putters and prepare to lose some sleep (and possibly some friends). Team17 and Radical Forge have officially pulled back the curtain on the highly anticipated sequel to the 2020 indie phenomenon.

    Golf With Your Friends 2 is officially slated for a Fall 2026 release, and it’s bringing more than just a fresh coat of paint to the fairway.

    What’s New on the Green?

    The original Golf With Your Friends became a staple for chaotic Friday nights thanks to its 12-player lobbies and “anything goes” physics. The sequel looks to double down on that DNA while introducing several massive upgrades:

    • Chaos Mode: A brand-new mode designed for maximum unpredictability. Details are still being kept under wraps, but expect more power-ups and environmental hazards that turn a standard putt into a survival mission.
    • Level Editor 2.0: One of the biggest announcements is the revamped level editor. Not only are the tools more precise and powerful, but the editor is coming to consoles for the first time, featuring full cross-platform sharing.
    • New Courses & Mechanics: The game will launch with six brand-new courses, each featuring unique gameplay mechanics like gravity shifts and environmental traversal twists. We’ve already seen glimpses of a coastal Skate Park and a high-contrast Fire and Ice tundra.
    • Hole Explosions: A new cosmetic category! Now you can celebrate a clutch birdie with fiery blasts or confetti showers that erupt directly from the cup.
    • Free-to-Unlock Rewards: Moving away from confusing menus, GWYF2 introduces a transparent, 100% free reward system where you unlock hats, trails, and floaties simply by playing the game.

    Cross-Play & Platforms

    In a move that will please the entire community, full cross-platform multiplayer has been confirmed from day one. Whether you are on PC or the latest consoles, the 12-player lobbies will be more populated than ever.

    Confirmed Platforms:

    • PC (Steam)
    • PlayStation 5
    • Xbox Series X/S
    • Nintendo Switch 2

    Why the Wait?

    While the game was originally teased for a 2025 Early Access window, developer Radical Forge opted to skip the Early Access phase entirely. The extra development time is being used to ensure a polished, “feature-complete” launch across all platforms simultaneously.

    “We’ve doubled down on everything that made the original a favorite… this is the only sane choice in crazy golf!” — Team17 Statement

    The TechMash Verdict

    If the first game was about testing friendships, the sequel seems intent on breaking them entirely. With the move to a more robust engine and the inclusion of the Level Editor on consoles, Golf With Your Friends 2 is shaping up to be the definitive party game of 2026.

    Stay tuned to TechMash.co.uk for more updates as we approach the Fall 2026 tee-off!

    Will you be the one sinking the hole-in-one, or the one resetting your ball for the tenth time? Let us know in the comments!

    Find out more here – https://www.gwyf.golf

    #gwyf #GolfWithYourFriends2 #golf #RadicalForge #Team17 #GolfWithYourFriends #PC #NintendoSwitch #PlayStation #Xbox #videogames #gaming #gamers

  • Something Wicked This Way Comes: Entalto and Forgotten Bastions Reveal ‘Fear Tall Grass’

    Something Wicked This Way Comes: Entalto and Forgotten Bastions Reveal ‘Fear Tall Grass’

    In the world of indie gaming, “monster catching” usually brings to mind colourful pocket monsters and lighthearted adventures. However, Spanish publisher Entalto Publishing and North American developer Forgotten Bastions are about to turn that trope on its head.

    Announced today, Fear Tall Grass is a dark fantasy roguelite monster battler that looks to swap sunny fields for a grim, decaying world where humanity is on the brink of extinction.

    The Story: Humanity’s Final Crusade

    In Fear Tall Grass, civilisation hasn’t just fallen—it’s been consumed. The world is overrun by the Vilekin, ancient and terrifying creatures that have reclaimed the earth. Players step into the boots of Gray, the last steward of the Oathguard.

    Your mission is simple but daunting: venture into the lethal tall grass, capture the beasts once worshipped as gods, and bend them to your will to protect the last embers of humanity.

    Gameplay: Where Strategy Meets the Roll of the Dice

    The game promises a unique blend of genres that should pique the interest of strategy fans:

    • The Loop: Movement across the board is determined by a two-dice roll system. Every step forward changes the board, meaning no two runs are ever the same.
    • Tactical Autobattling: While combat is automated, you aren’t just a spectator. You’ll manage Command Points to trigger manual “Backline Abilities,” allowing you to intervene and turn the tide of a losing battle.
    • Reclaim & Build: As you clear lethal tiles, you can construct permanent buildings. These structures provide vital buffs for your current run, turning the hostile board into a fortified path.
    • The Sanctuary of Light: Between runs, you’ll return to your hub to manage your Oathguard rank, craft magical items, and “exalt” your team for permanent progression.

    Meet the Vilekin

    At the heart of the game are the creatures themselves. There are over 100 unique Vilekin to collect, categorised across six elemental paths:

    1. Hydro
    2. Pyro
    3. Nature
    4. Physical
    5. Volt
    6. Rock

    Mastering type-effectiveness and knowing when to swap your fighters will be the difference between a successful crusade and a swift death in the weeds.

    Release Details

    The announcement comes with a haunting teaser trailer that showcases the game’s hand-crafted, dark-yet-whimsical visual identity—a signature style of Forgotten Bastions’ founder, Ziah Miller.

    “Fear Tall Grass has evolved from concept to prototype to full production… Beneath the tall grass awaits humanity’s extinction. Can you bring humanity back?”

    Fear Tall Grass is currently slated for a Q4 2026 release. It’s coming to almost every platform imaginable, including PC (Steam), PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch.

    For those who want to support the crusade early, the game is now available to wishlist on Steam.

    What do you think? Are you ready to brave the Vilekin, or is the tall grass a bit too crowded for your liking? Let us know in the comments!

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/4418130

    #EntaltoPublishing #ForgottenBastions #FearTallGrass #darkfantasy #roguelite #monsterbattler #creature #combat #PC #PlayStation #Xbox #NintendoSwitch

  • Final Scene Dev Debuts Stunning Launch Trailer for Action RPG ‘Foreign Sun’

    Final Scene Dev Debuts Stunning Launch Trailer for Action RPG ‘Foreign Sun’

    The long wait for indie fans is over. Final Scene Dev has officially released their highly anticipated 2D choice-driven action RPG, Foreign Sun, on Nintendo Switch and PC. To celebrate the arrival of this atmospheric adventure, the studio has debuted a brand-new launch trailer that showcases the game’s haunting pixel art and deep mechanical complexity.

    If the name doesn’t immediately ring a bell, you might remember it from its earlier stages of development when it was known as The Meridian Gate.

    From Port to Powerhouse

    Originally conceived as a Nintendo Switch port of the 2020 cult hit Biomass, the project quickly evolved. Final Scene Dev realised the world they were building had far more potential as a standalone experience.

    The result is Foreign Sun: a ground-up reboot featuring redrawn hand-crafted assets, expanded lore, and a “metroidbrainia” design that rewards curiosity as much as it does combat prowess.

    Key Features of Foreign Sun

    • A Living, Sinking City: Navigate an interconnected world where your decisions carry weight. Every action can shift the city’s fate, leading to one of 7+ distinct endings.
    • Tactical Soulslike Combat: Master advanced swordplay to break enemy posture, unlock hidden techniques, and acquire forbidden powers from a mysterious entity.
    • Faction Allegiance: In the shadow of the Eternal Lighthouse, you’ll encounter various factions. Whether you aid them, betray them, or play them against each other is entirely up to you.
    • Dynamic Outcomes: Depending on your choices, you may encounter different bosses, discover secret areas, or permanently alter the landscape of the world.

    Now Available

    Foreign Sun is available now for $19.99 / £17.99 on both the Nintendo eShop and Steam. Whether you’re a veteran of the Eternal Lighthouse from the Biomass days or a newcomer looking for a deep, reactive RPG, this is one pilgrimage you won’t want to miss.

    “The project grew in scope… becoming a standalone title with redrawn art and a new design that aims to expand the world, choice, and consequence that users loved.” — Final Scene Dev

    Check out the launch trailer below to see the “sinking city” in action.

    Are you planning to dive into the secrets of the Eternal Lighthouse on Switch or PC? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/2387560

    #FinalSceneDev #2D #RPG #ForeignSun #TheMeridianGate #NintendoSwitch #PC #videogames #gaming #gamers

  • Retro Revival: Parasol Superstars Brings TAITO Classics to Modern Consoles

    Retro Revival: Parasol Superstars Brings TAITO Classics to Modern Consoles

    Retro fans, it’s time to dust off your umbrellas—or rather, your magical parasols! ININ Games and TAITO have officially announced that Parasol Superstars is now available digitally for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4|5, and Xbox.

    This vibrant bundle is a love letter to arcade history, packaging two iconic 2D platformers that prove you don’t need a sword or a gun when you have the world’s most versatile accessory.

    What’s in the Bundle?

    Parasol Superstars isn’t just a simple port; it’s a star-studded double feature that combines a beloved sequel with a long-lost arcade gem:

    1. Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III

    The legendary bubble dragons, Bub and Bob, return in their human forms! In this critically acclaimed sequel to Rainbow Islands, players use magical parasols to shield against projectiles, stun enemies, and even capture droplets to unleash elemental magic. Whether you’re playing solo or in 2-player co-op, the tactical depth and catchy soundtrack remain as charming as they were in 1991.

    2. Spica Adventure

    For the first time ever, the formerly Japan-exclusive arcade hit Spica Adventure makes its worldwide console debut. You play as Nico, a girl armed with a yellow parasol (reminiscent of the Parasol Stars mechanics), navigating through 28 colourful, branching stages. It’s fast-paced, vibrant, and features an energetic soundtrack by TAITO’s legendary sound team, ZUNTATA.

    Key Features at a Glance

    • Arcade Classics Reborn: Experience Spica Adventure on consoles for the first time outside of Japanese arcades.
    • Dynamic Gameplay: Attack, defend, glide, and reflect using the versatile parasol mechanics.
    • Branching Paths: Multiple routes in Spica Adventure provide high replayability.
    • Modern Flourishes: Includes online leaderboards to see how your skills stack up globally.
    • Limited-Time Launch Offer: To celebrate the release, the digital bundle is available at a 20% discount during its launch week (priced at approximately £19.99 / $19.99).

    Physical Editions for Collectors

    While the digital release is live now, physical collectors haven’t been forgotten. Strictly Limited Games and ININ are offering physical editions for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5, including a Special Edition that features a curated soundtrack collection and a beautifully crafted artbook.

    TechMash Tip: If you’re a fan of the Bubble Bobble universe or just love high-quality 2D platforming, this bundle is a no-brainer. The inclusion of Spica Adventure alone makes it a must-have for preservationists and retro enthusiasts alike.

    Parasol Superstars is available now on the Nintendo eShop, PlayStation Store, and Xbox Store.

    Are you ready to save the planet with the power of the parasol? Let us know which classic you’re diving into first in the comments below!

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

    #ININGames #TAITO #ParasolSuperstars #NintendoSwitch #PlayStation #Xbox #2Dplatformgame #SpicaAdventure #ParasolStars #TheStoryofBubbleBobbleIII

  • No Man’s Sky: Xeno Arena Hits the Nintendo Switch 2 – Pokémon Meets the Stars

    No Man’s Sky: Xeno Arena Hits the Nintendo Switch 2 – Pokémon Meets the Stars

    The universe of No Man’s Sky just got a whole lot more competitive. If you thought exploring 18 quintillion planets was enough to keep you busy, Hello Games has just dropped the Xeno Arena Update, and it is a literal game-changer—especially for those of us rocking the new Nintendo Switch 2.

    While the update landed on PC and other consoles last week, the wait for the portable version is officially over. Here’s why the Xeno Arena update is the perfect excuse to dust off your Multi-tool and head back into the Euclid Galaxy.

    Gotta Scan ‘Em All: What is Xeno Arena?

    The Xeno Arena (v6.3) update transforms your menagerie of alien companions from mere travel buddies into a battle-ready squad. Think Pokémon or Palworld, but on a galactic scale.

    • Gladiatorial Contests: You can now enter your creatures into simulated battles at the Space Anomaly or within player-built arenas.
    • Genetic Engineering: Use the new genetic modification interface to tweak your pet’s agility, health, and combat traits.
    • Deep Strategy: Each creature has unique elemental affinities based on its home planet’s biome. A toxic-breathing blob from a radiation-soaked moon will have a natural edge over a flying lizard from a frozen world.
    • Expanded Roster: To accommodate your new addiction, the companion cap has been raised from 18 to 30.

    The Switch 2 Advantage: High-End Portability

    Playing No Man’s Sky on the original Switch was a technical miracle, but the Nintendo Switch 2 version is where the game finally breathes.

    According to Hello Games’ lead engineer Martin Griffiths, porting these massive updates to portable hardware takes “2-3x more time” because of the sheer optimisation required, but the results on the Switch 2 are undeniable:

    • Visual Fidelity: We’re looking at 1080p at 40fps in handheld mode and a crisp 1440p at 30fps when docked. The texture density and lighting effects are a massive leap over the previous generation.
    • Full Feature Parity: Unlike the first Switch, the Switch 2 edition includes full multiplayer from day one. You’ll see other Travellers in the Anomaly, join Nexus missions, and—most importantly—challenge them to Xeno battles right there on the holo-tables.
    • Fast Loading: Jumping from a planet surface to deep space is now near-instant, making the “creature hunting” loop for the Arena much more addictive.

    Performance Notes

    It’s not all sunshine and paradise planets, though. While the Switch 2 handles the game beautifully, early reports suggest that particularly “vegetation-heavy” paradise worlds can still see minor frame rate dips.

    However, the latest Patch 6.32 has already addressed several launch-week bugs, including flickering underwater graphics and some inventory duplication glitches. Hello Games is clearly committed to making this the definitive portable experience.

    Final Verdict

    For the 10th anniversary of No Man’s Sky, Hello Games has delivered a feature fans have wanted for years. Whether you’re breeding the ultimate predator or just want to see how your “flying cow” fares against a robotic sentinel dog, the Xeno Arena update provides a fresh, rewarding layer of gameplay.

    If you own a Switch 2, this is a mandatory download. The sky has no limits, and now, it has a champion.

    Are you planning to build the ultimate alien battle team, or are you sticking to peaceful exploration? Let us know in the comments!

    Stay tuned to TechMash.co.uk for more updates on the latest Switch 2 releases and No Man’s Sky guides.

    Find out more here – https://ninten.do/6008Spp2s

    #HelloGames #NintendoSwitch2 #NintendoSwitch #NoMansSky #aliens #creatures #combat #tactics #games #gamers #gaming

  • Reach New Heights: Overwatch Season 2: Summit Trailer Breaks the Ice

    Reach New Heights: Overwatch Season 2: Summit Trailer Breaks the Ice

    The wait is almost over, Heroes. Blizzard has officially dropped the trailer for Overwatch Season 2: Summit, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most significant updates since the game’s 2026 “forever game” rebrand.

    Set to launch tomorrow, April 14, Season 2 takes us from the gritty streets of recent seasons to the frozen, tactical peaks of Watchpoint: Grand Mesa. Here is everything you need to know about the trailer’s biggest reveals.

    Meet Sierra: The New Recon Damage Hero

    The undisputed star of the trailer is Sierra, the Head of Security for Watchpoint: Grand Mesa. Joining the Damage roster, Sierra isn’t just another “point and shoot” hero; she is built for verticality and space control.

    • Mobility: Her kit features a combat drone named Dorothy, which she uses for both scouting and high-ground positioning.
    • Tactical Pressure: Unlike burst-heavy DPS, Sierra focuses on area denial and “keeping the pressure on,” making her a nightmare for teams with poor coordination.
    • The Lore: Her arrival kicks off the Operation: Grand Mesa event, a three-week narrative journey where players can unlock lore entries, voice lines, and skins while defending the base from Talon.

    The Return of Post-Match Accolades

    Community feedback has clearly been heard. The trailer confirmed the return of Post-Match Accolades, a reimagining of the classic voting system.

    “Post-Match Accolades let you recognize impact beyond the battle… the little things that win matches but don’t always show up in the raw stats.” — Blizzard Entertainment

    After the Play of the Game, you can now vote for an MVP. To make it more social, Blizzard is introducing optional voice chat during the voting screen, allowing teams (and even opponents) to share a “GG” before heading back to the queue.

    Map Reworks and “Summit” Features

    The “Summit” theme isn’t just for show. Antarctic Peninsula is returning with a massive rework, featuring brand-new pathways and sightlines designed to reduce bottlenecks and favour mobile heroes like Sierra.

    Key Quality-of-Life Updates:

    • Map Voting: A new majority-vote system ensures players have more say in where they fight.
    • Rank Protection: To encourage learning, rank loss will be reduced when playing on new or heavily reworked maps during their debut week.
    • Random Map Option: For the truly brave who want to let the game decide their fate.

    10-Year Anniversary & New Skins

    Season 2 also marks the beginning of Overwatch’s 10-Year Anniversary celebrations. The trailer teased a massive mid-season collaboration and several “must-have” cosmetics:

    Skin TypeHighlight
    Mythic SkinsGenji and Soldier: 76
    ThemeSpring Fairy & Sakura Bundle
    The Fan FavoritePanda Jetpack Cat (Yes, it’s finally happening!)

    Final Verdict

    With a new hero that shifts the meta, the return of fan-favourite social features, and the start of a decade-long celebration, Season 2: Summit looks like a massive win for Blizzard.

    Overwatch Season 2: Summit goes live on April 14 across PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and the new Nintendo Switch 2.

    Are you ready to climb? Let us know in the comments which Sierra ability you’re most excited to try out!

    Find out more here – https://overwatch.blizzard.com/en-gb/

    #Overwatch #multiplayer #firstpersonshooter #BlizzardEntertainment #PlayStation #PC #Xbox #NintendoSwitch #crossplatformplay #games #gaming #gamers

  • Valkyrie Initiative and 70`Strike Check-In: Welcome to the Inferno Hotel

    Valkyrie Initiative and 70`Strike Check-In: Welcome to the Inferno Hotel

    Retro-gaming fans, it’s time to pack your bags for the afterlife. Publisher Valkyrie Initiative and solo developer 70`Strike (the creative mind behind Skelethrone) have officially pulled back the curtain on Kettlebell: Inferno Hotel, a fast-paced 2D platformer that’s looking to inject some serious 16-bit attitude into the modern era.

    If you’ve ever felt like your morning commute was hellish, spare a thought for Mr K. He’s an ordinary office clerk who finds himself in the ultimate HR nightmare: a fatal accident sends him straight to Hell. However, in this universe, the underworld isn’t just fire and brimstone—it’s a chaotic, sprawling hotel where every floor has its own set of lethal rules.

    What to Expect Behind the Lobby Doors

    Inspired by the “weird energy” of ’90s classics like Earthworm Jim, Boogerman, and Sonic the Hedgehog, Kettlebell: Inferno Hotel aims for a balance of high-speed precision and satirical humour.

    • Handcrafted Chaos: Explore 9 floors and over 40 levels of the Inferno Hotel, ranging from fiery industrial zones to parks populated by homeless souls.
    • Grotesque Combat: Face off against bizarre enemies and bosses using Mr K’s signature weapon (and the game’s namesake)—the kettlebell.
    • Retro Vibes, Modern Polish: The game features hand-drawn pixel art, frame-by-frame animation, and an eclectic soundtrack blending jazz, ’80s disco, and blues.

    “After working on the dark and demanding world of Skelethrone, I wanted to create something lighter, stranger, and more playful,” says developer Ksayfar (Dmitriy Bukhtatov). “It’s my love letter to the ’90s… filtered through a bizarre vision of Hell inspired by The Divine Comedy.”

    Join the Playtest

    Think you have what it takes to get an S Rank in the underworld? Valkyrie Initiative has opened Steam Playtest sign-ups today.

    Players who dive in early and complete the challenges can earn exclusive launch rewards, including:

    1. Golden Kettlebell Skin (Requires completing levels with an S Rank)
    2. Smelly Kettlebell Skin
    3. Stylish Yellow Shirt for Mr K

    Platforms & Availability

    While a firm release date is still under wraps (TBA), the game is confirmed for a massive multi-platform launch:

    • PC (Steam & GOG)
    • PlayStation 4 & PlayStation 5
    • Xbox One & Xbox Series X|S
    • Nintendo Switch

    Keep your eyes on the Official Steam Page to wishlist the game and keep up with the latest developer updates.

    Are you ready to check in, or will you be checking out early? Let us know your thoughts on this retro revival in the comments!

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/4032020

    #ValkyrieInitiative #70Strike #KettlebellInfernoHotel #IGN #Playtest #PC #Steam #GOG #PlayStation #Xbox #NintendoSwitch #games #gaming #gamers

  • SHIKA-Q Officially Launches Today On Sony PlayStation & Nintendo Switch

    SHIKA-Q Officially Launches Today On Sony PlayStation & Nintendo Switch

    The wait is finally over for puzzle fans looking for something a bit more high-octane. SHIKA-Q, the “ultra-fast” competitive puzzle game from developer AGNI-FLARE, officially launches today, April 9, 2026, on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5.

    If you’ve grown tired of the slow, methodical pace of traditional falling-block games, SHIKA-Q is here to kick things into overdrive.

    Strategy Meets Speed

    Unlike the classics, where you wait for blocks to drop, SHIKA-Q takes place on a 10×10 board where everything happens in real-time. You aren’t just matching shapes; you’re engaging in a high-speed tug-of-war.

    The core mechanic involves connecting “Links” to trigger simultaneous attacks, defences, and recoveries. It feels less like Tetris and more like a fighting game, where reading your opponent’s intentions is just as important as your own reflexes.

    Key Features at Launch:

    • Real-Time Battles: Every move you make immediately impacts the board, allowing for instant offence and defence.
    • Music-Driven Gameplay: The game features original vocal tracks that aren’t just background noise—they evolve and sync with the intensity of the match.
    • Challenge Mode: A massive single-player experience with 99 stages designed to test your tactical limits.
    • Online & Ranked Play: Take your skills global and climb the leaderboards in competitive ranked matches.

    Customise Your Experience

    One of the standout features mentioned in today’s launch is the deep level of customisation. Players can unlock and swap out UI designs, emotes, loading screens, and even specific character songs.

    For those looking to dive even deeper, the Nexus Battle Pass also goes live today. This seasonal system introduces five unique characters and themes, offering a steady stream of cosmetic rewards for dedicated players.

    Where to Get It

    SHIKA-Q is available now as a digital download. UK players can pick it up on the Nintendo eShop for approximately £12.60 ($15.99), with similar pricing on the PlayStation Store.

    Whether you’re looking for a quick five-minute mental workout or a sweaty night of ranked ladder climbing, SHIKA-Q looks set to be the new obsession for the competitive puzzle community.

    Will you be jumping into the 10×10 fray today? Let us know your thoughts on the music-driven mechanics in the comments!

    Find out more here – https://shika-q.com/

    #AGNIFLARE #puzzlegame #SHIKA-Q #NintendoSwitch #PlayStation #PC #STEAM #games #gaming #gamers

  • Take to the Skies: Solarpunk Lands on PC and Consoles this June

    Take to the Skies: Solarpunk Lands on PC and Consoles this June

    Get your airships ready and your solar panels polished. The wait for one of the most anticipated indie titles of the year is nearly over. Publisher rokaplay and developer Cyberwave have officially announced that their cosy survival adventure, Solarpunk, will launch on June 8, 2026.

    The announcement, which debuted during the recent Triple-I Initiative showcase, confirms that the game will be coming to a wide array of platforms, including PC (Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and the Nintendo Switch 2.

    A High-Flying Vision

    Developed by a dedicated two-person team over the last four years, Solarpunk has become a massive community favourite, amassing over one million wishlists on Steam. Set in a stunning world of floating islands, the game swaps the typical “grit and grime” of the survival genre for a hopeful, high-tech future where sustainability is the name of the game.

    Key Features to Look Forward To:

    • Sustainable Survival: Forget hunting for scrap in the mud. In Solarpunk, you harness the power of the sun, wind, and water to create renewable energy systems that power your gadgets and automated farms.
    • Airship Exploration: The sky is your playground. Players can build and customise their own airships to travel between distant islands, discovering new resources and secrets hidden in the clouds.
    • Co-op Adventures: While you can enjoy a peaceful solo journey, the game supports online co-op for up to four players. Share the load of resource gathering, build a massive floating sanctuary together, or simply enjoy the view with friends.
    • Cosy Automation: From building intricate irrigation systems to crafting helpful robots, the focus is on creating a self-sufficient ecosystem so you have more time to explore and decorate.

    “Solarpunk is a survival game in a technically advanced world of floating islands… Alone or together with your friends, you can construct buildings, grow food, craft gadgets and hop on your airship to explore distant islands in the sky.” — Cyberwave Development Team

    Why the Hype is Real

    The game’s recent demo during Steam Next Fest saw over 500,000 downloads, proving that there is a massive appetite for “cosy survival.” By removing the stress of traditional survival mechanics and replacing them with rewarding automation and beautiful aesthetics, Cyberwave is carving out a unique niche in the genre.

    Whether you’re looking to build a sustainable paradise or explore the far reaches of a shattered world, mark your calendars for June 8. It’s time to see what life is like above the clouds.

    Are you planning to tackle the floating islands solo or with a crew? Let us know in the comments!

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/1805110

    #rokaplay #Cyberware #survival #adventure #Solarpunk #PC #PlayStation #Xbox #NintendoSwitch #games #gaming #gamers