TECHMASH

Tag: #PCGaming

  • Loop, Shoot, Repeat: Orangepixel’s Space Grunts: Chrono Shard Hits PC with Switch 2 Version Confirmed!

    Loop, Shoot, Repeat: Orangepixel’s Space Grunts: Chrono Shard Hits PC with Switch 2 Version Confirmed!

    Retro-gaming fans and tactical masterminds, brace yourselves. Solo indie developer Orangepixel has officially dropped Space Grunts: Chrono Shard onto Steam and the Epic Games Store. Merging high-stakes tactical depth with high-velocity retro-arcade energy, this time-looping tactical shooter is out to test your trigger fingers and your brainpower.

    If that isn’t enough to get you excited, a Nintendo Switch 2 version has also been officially confirmed for the future. Here is everything you need to know about your next indie addiction.

    The Story: Stopping the Galactic Ooze

    In Space Grunts: Chrono Shard, a sentient Ooze is devouring the galaxy by hopping through a hijacked network of deep-space HyperGates. As a member of the elite Space Grunts tactical unit, you are dropped directly into “time bubbles” on procedurally generated space stations and moon bases. Your mission? Shut down the gates and contain the spread—at any cost.

    Break the Loop (or Use It to Your Advantage)

    The star of the show is the Chrono Loop mechanic. Utilising the titular Chrono Shard, you have the power to rewind the clock. However, death isn’t just a reset screen here.

    Any items you drop, resources you scavenge, or changes you make to the environment stay exactly where they are for your next attempt. Essentially, you can seed the battlefield with gear and traps to strategically collaborate with past versions of yourself.

    Key Features:

    • Rapid-Fire Strategy: Forget slow, bloated menus. This game retains the classic, fast-paced Space Grunts arcade energy but frames it in a tight, turn-based format that rewards rapid thinking.
    • Deep Crafting & Sub-Classes: Find specialised crafting stations to scrap useless loot and build an unstoppable arsenal. You can also invest in unique skill trees to shape your grunt into sub-classes like Sniper, Gadget, Engineer, or Veteran.
    • Kinetic Combat: Bullet spread patterns and explosive shockwaves physically manipulate the battlefield. You can launch enemies into hazards or blow open paths to the next HyperGate.

    Nintendo Switch 2 On The Horizon

    While PC players can jump into the time loop right now, handheld gaming enthusiasts have a massive reason to celebrate. Orangepixel has officially confirmed that Space Grunts: Chrono Shard is headed to the Nintendo Switch 2.

    Given the next-generation handheld’s boosted capabilities, navigating the game’s procedurally generated space stations with snappy performance and pixel-perfect clarity on the go is going to be an absolute treat.

    Available Now

    Space Grunts: Chrono Shard is available on PC via Steam and Epic Games Store, complete with a launch discount. Grab your blaster, master the timeline, and stop the Ooze!

    Are you jumping into the loop on PC, or waiting for the Switch 2 version? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #IndieGames #RetroGaming #SpaceGruntsChronoShard #Orangepixel #PCGaming #Steam #EpicGames #NintendoSwitch2 #Switch2 #GamingNews #TacticalShooter #SciFiGaming

  • The Battle for National Pride: PUBG Nations Cup 2026 Trailer Drops and Action Kicks Off!

    The Battle for National Pride: PUBG Nations Cup 2026 Trailer Drops and Action Kicks Off!

    The wait is officially over, battle royale fans! Krafton has unleashed the official teaser trailer for the PUBG Nations Cup (PNC) 2026, and it is every bit the adrenaline-fueled, action-packed spectacle you’d expect. The hype has reached a boiling point as the tournament kicks off its intense survival showdown.

    If you haven’t seen the trailer yet, check out the heart-pounding preview below and get ready for international esports at its absolute finest:

    Watch the PNC 2026 Trailer Here:

    The Ultimate Esports Showdown in Seoul

    PNC 2026 brings the tournament back to the legendary esports hub of Seoul, South Korea. Running from June 23 to June 28, this year’s iteration features a massive roster expansion. For only the second time in the event’s history, 24 all-star national teams are locking horns to see which country rules the battlegrounds.

    The stakes? Massive bragging rights, national pride, and a slice of a staggering $500,000 USD base prize pool (plus crowdfunding boosts from the PNC 2026 Event Pass!).

    The PNC 2026 Roadmap

    The tournament is split into two ruthless stages designed to separate the elite from the rest:

    • The Survival Stage (June 23 – June 24): Streaming live from PUBG Seongsu. The lower-ranked teams fight through a gruelling 10-match gauntlet just to earn a spot on the main stage.
    • The Grand Finals (June 26 – June 28): Moving to the historic Jangchung Arena. The top 8 auto-qualified teams from PNC 2025 will meet the survivors of the group stage for a 15-match showdown in front of a roaring live crowd.

    New Year, New Rules: Meta Shifts to TPP

    This isn’t just the same old PUBG. Krafton is mixing things up significantly for the 2026 circuit. For starters, PNC 2026 is moving to a Third-Person Perspective (TPP) format, aligning esports mode settings closely with Ranked queue loot and Bluezone dynamics.

    Additionally, the Bluezone damage model has been overhauled—damage now scales based on how long you linger in the blue, rather than your distance from the safe zone. Combined with faster-moving Sandstorms and earlier Special Zones, the gameplay showcased in the trailer promises faster rotations, chaotic skirmishes, and relentless pressure.

    How to Get Involved and Score Free G-Coin

    Even if you aren’t competing on stage in Seoul, Krafton is giving fans plenty of reasons to tune in:

    1. Fan Cheer Event: Head over to the official Krafton ID portal, link your account, and vote for your favourite country (let’s go Team UK!). Daily voting increases your chances of winning up to 5,000 G-Coins.
    2. Twitch/YouTube Drops: Link your accounts and watch the live broadcasts to score exclusive PNC 2026 in-game loot, including the PNC 2026 Jacket, emblems, and victory sprays.

    With Vietnam returning to defend their crown, and powerhouse nations like South Korea, China, and the USA hungry for redemption, PNC 2026 is shaping up to be the biggest event of the summer.

    Who are you backing to take home the trophy? Drop your predictions in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #PUBG #PNC2026 #PUBGEsports #BattleRoyale #GamingNews #Techmash #Gaming #Esports #Krafton #PCGaming #PNC

  • French Flair Meets O’ahu: The Crew Motorfest Drops Stunning Alpine Elite Bundle Trailer

    French Flair Meets O’ahu: The Crew Motorfest Drops Stunning Alpine Elite Bundle Trailer

    Ubisoft and Ivory Tower are keeping the pedal to the metal in The Crew Motorfest, and their latest teaser is a certified treat for fans of precision engineering and lightweight performance. The newly released Alpine Elite Bundle Trailer has officially dropped, showcasing a gorgeous pairing of French automotive art designed to dominate the streets of O’ahu.

    If you have a need for speed and an appreciation for track-focused agility, this is a pack you’ll want to keep on your radar.

    The Irresistible Attraction of Lightness

    While previous Elite Bundles focused on raw, heavy American muscle or ultra-exclusive hypercars, the Alpine Elite Bundle shifts the spotlight toward a different philosophy: extreme weight reduction and cutting-edge aerodynamics.

    The trailer highlights two stunning vehicles that players will soon be able to add to their virtual garages:

    • Alpine A110R Ultime: The absolute pinnacle of the modern A110 lineup. This track-honed monster is built for razor-sharp handling, combining carbon fibre components with a finely-tuned setup made to slice through winding coastal roads and tight street circuits alike.
    • Alpine Alpenglow: Moving from production excellence to futuristic fantasy, the Alpenglow concept car is a striking, hydrogen-powered hypercar vision. With its glowing light signatures and aerodynamic silhouette, it looks less like a traditional car and more like a spacecraft designed for the tarmac.

    When Can You Drive Them?

    Release Date: Mark your calendars for July 8th!

    The Alpine Elite Bundle will officially become available in-game on all supported platforms, including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC (as well as via Ubisoft+).

    Whether you’re looking to shave seconds off your best time in the latest Summit events or simply want to cruise the vibrant Hawaiian landscape in style, these two French powerhouses offer a stark, refreshing contrast to the usual grid.

    Check out the official trailer over on Ubisoft’s channels to see these two machines in action, and get ready to experience the “irresistible attraction of lightness” next month!

    Find out more here

    #TheCrewMotorfest #Alpine #Ubisoft #GamingNews #AlpineA110R #Alpenglow #RacingGames #TechMash #CarCulture #PS5 #XboxSeriesX #PCGaming

  • Enter the Yellow Maze: Liminal Backrooms Drops Terrifying New Co-Op Gameplay Trailer

    Enter the Yellow Maze: Liminal Backrooms Drops Terrifying New Co-Op Gameplay Trailer

    If you thought you were done losing your mind to the hum of fluorescent lights and moist yellow carpets, think again. The internet’s favourite creepypasta nightmare is coming back to the gaming world in a big way. Independent developer The Unknown Studio has officially released a brand-new gameplay trailer for their highly anticipated upcoming title, Liminal Backrooms.

    With the recent buzz surrounding A24’s big-screen adaptation of the Backrooms, interest in liminal horror is at an all-time high—and this game looks ready to deliver the definitive co-op experience.

    Check out what we know so far and what the new trailer reveals.

    The Setup: From Offshore Rig to Level 0

    Unlike some Backrooms games that just drop you into the maze without context, Liminal Backrooms kicks off with a narrative hook.

    The story begins on an abandoned offshore platform, where a specialised response team is dispatched to investigate a sudden power failure. Naturally, things go sideways fast. As soon as communication with the outside world drops, the team finds themselves entirely cut off from reality—waking up in the sickeningly familiar, endless halls of Level 0.

    The new trailer shifts the focus heavily onto core gameplay mechanics, giving us a claustrophobic look at how you and your friends will survive the madness. Watch it below:

    Key Gameplay Features: Cooperate or Clip Through Reality

    Liminal Backrooms isn’t just a walking simulator. It’s built around three core pillars: exploration, puzzle-solving, and survival. Here is what you can expect when you step into the yellow void:

    • Rule-Based Levels: Every level in the game is designed around its own distinct mechanics, rules, and ecological dangers. You won’t just be running; you’ll need to actively observe, communicate, and learn the logic of each space to survive.
    • Environmental Puzzles: Players must interact with the environment by turning valves, pulling levers, and searching for hidden clues to unlock new areas.
    • Proximity-Based Tension: The trailer highlights just how easily a team can get separated. With entities exhibiting vastly different AI behaviours, a single mistake or a miscommunicated callout can put your entire group at risk.
    FeatureWhat We Know
    DeveloperThe Unknown Studio
    GenreCo-op Survival Horror / Liminal Space
    PlatformPC (Steam)
    Core LoopsExploration, Valve/Lever Puzzles, Entity Evading

    Ready to Lose Your Sanity?

    Liminal Backrooms is shaping up to be an absolute must-play for fans of atmospheric, high-tension horror. If you and your squad think you have the communication skills to navigate Level 0 without turning on each other, you can head over to Steam right now to check out the screenshots and get it on your radar.

    Liminal Backrooms is officially available to wishlist on Steam now.

    Are you ready to face the entities, or are you staying firmly in the real world? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #LiminalBackrooms #BackroomsGame #TheUnknownStudio #CoOpHorror #IndieHorror #LiminalSpaces #PCGaming #SteamWishlist #GamingNews #TechMash

  • Slurp It Up! Ramen Simulator Officially Launches on Steam Today

    Slurp It Up! Ramen Simulator Officially Launches on Steam Today

    If you’ve ever looked at a steaming bowl of noodles and thought, “I could turn this into a culinary masterpiece (or a structural hazard),” today is your lucky day. Publisher Flyhigh Works and developer SECRET CHARACTER (the brilliant, hungry minds behind Yakiniku Simulator) have officially released Ramen Simulator on Steam today, 22nd June!

    To celebrate the launch, the game is serving up a delicious 20% introductory discount, bringing the price down to just $4.79 / £3.99.

    Check out the official launch trailer to see the noodle-crafting madness in action:

    Ramen is the Universe: What to Expect

    Following the casual, satisfyingly hyper-focused footsteps of Yakiniku Simulator, this latest release throws out the restaurant management stress and puts all the focus on the artistry of the bowl. Your ramen bowl is your canvas. From selecting the perfect rich broth and noodle thickness to layering aroma oils, the level of customisation is staggering.

    • 100+ Ingredients & Toppings: Go traditional with classic Chashu pork and soft-boiled eggs, or get completely avant-garde with quirky, unconventional toppings.
    • “More More Mode”: Ever wanted to see how high you can stack toppings before physics throws a fit? This mode lets you build a sky-high ramen mountain. Best of all? It’s zero calories.
    • Free Mode: Unleash your pure creativity with zero limits, snap photos of your delicious masterpieces, and save them to your in-game gallery.
    • Speed Eat Mini-Game: Tap into your inner competitive eater and see how fast you can clear four bowls of ramen to smash the leaderboard.
    • Quests & Shop: Complete daily missions to unlock exclusive, rare ingredients and shop items to take your bowls to the next level.

    Get the Ultimate Simulator Combo

    If you don’t already own the developer’s previous hit, Flyhigh Works has put together a special “Yakiniku + Ramen” Bundle. The bundle stacks an extra discount on top, giving you the ultimate digital Japanese BBQ and noodle pairing for a casual gaming night.

    Ramen Simulator is lightweight, highly addictive, and playable right now on PC via Steam. Grab your chopsticks, head over to the store page, and start crafting your dream bowl today!

    Find out more here

    #RamenSimulator #FlyhighWorks #IndieGames #SteamReleases #GamingNews #PCGaming #SimulationGames #TechMash

  • HoYoverse Unveils Next Closed Beta for Honkai: Nexus Anima—The ‘Evolution Test’ Starts This July!

    HoYoverse Unveils Next Closed Beta for Honkai: Nexus Anima—The ‘Evolution Test’ Starts This July!

    The masterminds behind global mega-hits like Genshin Impact, Honkai: Star Rail, and Zenless Zone Zero are gearing up for their next massive adventure. Global interactive entertainment brand HoYoverse has officially announced that Honkai: Nexus Anima will launch its highly anticipated second closed beta test, dubbed the “Evolution Test,” on July 9.

    If you’ve been itching to jump back into the Honkai universe with a fresh twist, the wait is almost over. The upcoming test will be available across PC, iOS, and Android, and recruitment is officially open!

    What is Honkai: Nexus Anima?

    For those unfamiliar, Honkai: Nexus Anima is HoYoverse’s first foray into the creature-collecting adventure strategy genre. Set in a fractured world where invisible bonds known as the “Nexus” have been shattered, players take on the role of a dimension-hopping traveller.

    To survive and uncover long-buried truths, you must forge deep bonds with mysterious creatures called Anima—remnants of the broken Nexus power that embody opposing concepts like Light and Dark, or Love and Hate. These companions aren’t just for show; their elemental powers are vital for strategic overworld exploration, puzzle-solving, and tactical Nexus Battles.

    What’s New in the “Evolution Test”?

    Following initial reveals, the Evolution Test is set to drastically expand the game’s core systems and narrative scope. Here is what players can look forward to when the beta drops on July 9:

    • The World of Iia Expands: Players will begin their journey in the quiet town of Iia, located in the Reality Plane. This build unlocks the lively streets of the New Quarter, commercial districts, and crucial architectural landmarks like the Nexus Hall and the True Nexus Building.
    • Deepened Anima Evolution: True to the test’s name, evolution will take centre stage. Transformations in Nexus Anima represent the growing strength of the bond between player and creature. Players can even name their companions, snap photos to preserve milestones, and—if they’re lucky—encounter ultra-rare Chromatic Anima.
    • Fresh Faces: The story progresses further into the unknown as travellers cross paths with newly introduced characters like Nanafey, Bai Mei, and Olympia, each tied to the deep lore of the game’s warring factions.

    How to Sign Up for the Beta

    The Evolution Test is a limited, free-to-play closed beta, meaning player slots are restricted, and all progress will be wiped once the test concludes.

    How to Register:

    1. Head over to the official Honkai: Nexus Anima website.
    2. Complete the pre-registration details.
    3. Fill out the official recruitment questionnaire survey.

    HoYoverse will select final testers via a lottery pool from those who complete the survey ahead of the July 9 launch. Make sure to keep an eye on your email and follow their official channels (@HonkaiNA) for access drops!

    Are you excited to dive into a creature-collector set in the Honkai universe? Let us know your thoughts on the new gameplay features in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #HonkaiNexusAnima #HoYoverse #EvolutionTest #GamingNews #MobileGaming #PCGaming #RPG #TechMash

  • Crowned Sun: IndigoWare Reveals Afro-Brazilian Fantasy MMORPG on Steam

    Crowned Sun: IndigoWare Reveals Afro-Brazilian Fantasy MMORPG on Steam

    The MMORPG space is about to get a massive infusion of fresh culture and classical mechanics. IndigoWare has officially announced Crowned Sun, an upcoming free-to-play 3D isometric MMORPG rooted deeply in Yoruba, Candomblé, and Afro-Brazilian mythology.

    If you’ve been waiting for an online RPG that steps away from traditional Eurocentric fantasy, this is the one to watch. The game’s Steam page is officially live, and players can now add it to their wishlists ahead of its planned Early Access launch.

    A Love Letter to Classic MMOs

    For veterans of the genre, Crowned Sun is going to feel like a warm, nostalgic embrace. IndigoWare is explicitly pitching the game as a love letter to iconic isometric classics like Ragnarok Online and Tree of Savior, while drawing structural inspiration from modern giants like Final Fantasy XIV.

    The game features a beloved staple of old-school progression: a classic dual-levelling system. Players will scale their character’s power across two parallel tracks—a Base Level earned through raw exploration and combat, and a Job Level that defines their specific class specialisation and mechanical path.

    Step Into the Mirage Kingdom

    Set in a vibrant, cel-shaded fantasy world called the Mirage Kingdom, Crowned Sun moves away from typical tropes to explore a rich cultural tapestry built with genuine care, rather than exoticism. The setting features lush biomes, ancient stone shrines wrapped in greenery, and an original soundtrack heavily influenced by Afro-diasporic rhythms.

    Players will begin their journey by choosing one of four distinct playable peoples, each carrying their own unique lore, identity, and combat feel:

    • Humans: Highly versatile and resilient.
    • Iwin: Forest-touched spirits intimately connected to nature.
    • Egbere: Shadow-bound damage dealers who happily trade defensive stats for raw power.
    • Ere: Childlike spirits that introduce unique tactical twists to the battlefield.

    Deep Progression and Spirit Wars

    At the heart of the game’s mechanics is the “Orisha Echoes” system—a progression mechanic woven directly into the world and storytelling that pays homage to the forces of the orixás.

    Crowned Sun isn’t cutting corners on standard MMO features either. IndigoWare is promising a complete suite of social and competitive systems right out of the gate, including:

    • Parties, Guilds, and a dedicated Party Finder
    • Pets, Mounts, and Mercenaries to aid you in battle
    • Instanced Spirit Trials for cooperative PvE challenges
    • Large-scale Spirit War battles for competitive players

    Development in the Open

    Crowned Sun is targeting a full 1.0 release in 2027, but PC players will get their hands on it much sooner via Steam Early Access. Crucially, it features cross-platform support across Windows, macOS, and Linux/SteamOS, meaning Steam Deck users can take the Mirage Kingdom on the go.

    IndigoWare intends to develop the game “in the open,” working closely alongside the community to tune job balance, shape end-game Spirit War content, and design entirely new mythology-inspired regions.

    Ready to join the hunt? You can head over to the Crowned Sun Steam Page right now to check out the initial trailers, review system requirements, and add the game to your wishlist!

    Find out more here

    #Gaming #MMORPG #CrownedSun #IndigoWare #IndieGames #Steam #FreeToPlay #PCGaming #AfroBrazilian #GamingNews #RagnarokOnline

  • No More Mondays! Garfield – Escape from Monday Dropping This September

    No More Mondays! Garfield – Escape from Monday Dropping This September

    Get your lasagnas ready and hide the spinach! Microids has just announced a brand-new 3D platforming adventure that promises to make everyone’s least favourite day of the week a whole lot more exciting. Developed by OSome Studio, Garfield – Escape from Monday is officially set to launch later this year.

    The world’s most famous orange, cynical, and pasta-loving feline is embarking on an unforgettable journey that is as dynamic as it is delicious. While exact plot details are still under wraps, the title suggests Garfield is doing what we all wish we could do: completely bypassing Monday.

    OSome Studio is no stranger to bringing iconic comic characters to life in vibrant 3D worlds (having previously worked on the Asterix & Obelix XXL series and The Smurfs – Mission Vileaf), making them the perfect team to capture the charm, humour, and attitude of Jim Davis’ beloved creation. Players can expect plenty of platforming challenges, puzzles, and undoubtedly a few nap-related mechanics.

    Release Date and Platforms

    You won’t have to wait too long to join the orange cat’s latest escapade. Garfield – Escape from Monday will be available on September 24, 2026.

    The game is getting a wide release, launching across all major modern platforms:

    • Nintendo Switch
    • PlayStation 5
    • Xbox Series X|S
    • PC

    Whether you want to play on the couch or on the go, Monday doesn’t stand a chance. Stay tuned to TechMash for more updates, trailers, and gameplay reveals as we get closer to the September launch!

    Find out more here

    #GarfieldGame #EscapeFromMonday #Microids #OSomeStudio #GamingNews #NintendoSwitch #PS5 #XboxSeriesX #PCGaming #TechMash

  • Medieval Zombie Survival Gets Serious: God Save Birmingham Drops Dev Update 3 Ahead of Today’s Closed Beta

    Medieval Zombie Survival Gets Serious: God Save Birmingham Drops Dev Update 3 Ahead of Today’s Closed Beta

    The plague is spreading, and 14th-century England is looking remarkably grim. Kakao Games and Ocean Drive Studio have just released their third Developer Update video for the highly anticipated medieval zombie survival simulator, God Save Birmingham.

    The new video drops just in time for the game’s highly anticipated global Closed Beta Test (CBT), which officially kicks off today, 22 June, and runs until 29 June.

    If you’ve been itching to hack through undead hordes with historically accurate melee tools while struggling against the brutal elements of the Dark Ages, here is everything revealed in Dev Update 3 that you can experience in the beta right now.

    Re-Engineered, Brutal Combat

    Following feedback from February’s Closed Alpha, Ocean Drive Studio has focused heavily on refining the game’s tactile, physics-based combat.

    • Snappier Animations: Attack animations are now quicker, and character controls feel far more responsive.
    • Tougher Foes: To keep things balanced, the zombies are now a bit more durable, forcing you to think strategically before swinging.
    • New Weapon Types: Say hello to spears, one-handed swords, and heavy-hitting halberds. Keep an eye on your weapon durability and sharpness—dull blades deal less damage and break when you least want them to.
    • The Shouting Mechanic: Players can now literally shout at zombies to lure them in a specific direction, perfect for setting up tactical ambushes or clearing a tight alleyway.

    Deepened Medieval Survival Mechanics

    Surviving the apocalypse in the 1300s requires a lot more than just a sharp sword. The beta introduces complex new layer systems for keeping your character alive:

    • Foraging & Livestock: You can now forage for berries in the forest, harvest vegetables from village gardens, and tend to chickens, which will provide a steady supply of eggs.
    • Thirst & Intoxication: You can pull drinking water straight from the local river, but untreated water carries the risk of a severe upset stomach. Alternatively, you can indulge in historically accurate medieval ale. While alcohol quenches thirst and lowers your character’s mental stress, drinking too much results in full-blown intoxication, making combat a hilarious nightmare.

    Dynamic Weather and Lethal Fire Physics

    The famed English weather is just as dangerous as the undead. The overhauled weather system introduces direct impacts on survival:

    • Rain and Fog: Rain drops the temperature and threatens your health, but heavy fog impairs the vision of zombies, making it the perfect cover for a stealth run.
    • Fire Hazards: To escape the cold, you can light indoor fires to warm up. However, physics-based fire can now spread dynamically to nearby wooden objects. Stand too close or manage your camp poorly, and you’ll suffer severe burns.

    “While the team would love to include and showcase more features in the game, we believe that making things well is more important than making a lot,” said production director Soonook Shin. “Therefore we intend to focus on creating a great game by continuously developing, testing and refining content.”

    What to Know Before You Play

    Before you rush over to Steam, the developers have noted a couple of important details for this specific testing phase:

    • No Save Feature Yet: Progression saves are not active for this build. If you need a break, the devs recommend hitting “ESC” to pause and leaving the game running in the background.
    • Co-op is Coming: While the final game will feature online co-op, this CBT is strictly focused on testing the solo experience, game balance, and core physics.

    How to Join the Closed Beta

    The God Save Birmingham Closed Beta is officially live today! To throw yourself into the dark ages:

    1. Head over to the official God Save Birmingham Steam Page.
    2. Click the green “Request Access” button.
    3. If selected, a download option will appear in your Steam library. (Note: Previous Core Group Testers automatically have access!)

    Are you ready to survive 14th-century Birmingham? Watch the full Dev Update 3 video on Ocean Drive Studio’s YouTube channel, grab your halberd, and let us know your thoughts on the beta in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #GodSaveBirmingham #KakaoGames #OceanDriveStudio #ZombieSurvival #IndieGames #PCGaming #SteamBeta #GamingNews #MedievalHorror

  • Skyrim Just Got a Massive DLC-Sized Expansion: Enter Sigil of the Fallen

    Skyrim Just Got a Massive DLC-Sized Expansion: Enter Sigil of the Fallen

    Even a decade and a half after its initial launch, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim refuses to let go of its crown. Bethesda’s masterpiece continues to draw in massive player numbers, and we all know exactly why: an unstoppable, fiercely dedicated modding community.

    While we all twiddle our thumbs waiting for The Elder Scrolls VI, a massive new verified Creation has dropped that might just be the closest thing to an official DLC we’ve seen in years. Developed by the legendary team at Kinggath Creations, “Sigil of the Fallen” is a hefty, premium expansion that injects a brilliant injection of fresh lore, mechanics, and dungeons into Tamriel.

    Here is why you need to boot up your PC or Xbox and head back to Skyrim immediately.

    The Mystery of the Soul Sanctum

    The journey kicks off when rumours of bizarre, supernatural sightings reach your ears just northeast of Markarth. This leads you to the discovery of the Sigil Geode, a mysterious artefact that accidentally unleashes ancient spirits across the province.

    To clean up this spectral mess, you’re pulled into the Soul Sanctum—a brand-new questline tracking the fates of three legendary heroes and a young girl burdened with an unfortunate gift. This isn’t just a quick fetch quest, either; Kinggath Creations has packed this expansion with multiple massive, custom-built dungeons filled with mind-bending puzzles, hidden secrets, and punishing boss fights that will push your high-level builds to their limits.

    Meet Your New 4-in-1 Spirit Companion

    One of the most innovative features of Sigil of the Fallen is your new ghostly follower. Rather than just another standard companion who gets stuck in doorways, this Spirit Guide is a highly dynamic asset to your party.

    She has the unique ability to channel the forms, memories, combat abilities, and distinct voices of the fallen heroes you encounter.

    • Class-Shifting on Demand: You can dynamically swap her combat class depending on what your current encounter requires.
    • Progression: As you progress through the expansion, you will unlock new powers and upgrade her abilities, turning her into a true powerhouse.

    Mighty Relics with a Twist

    What’s a Skyrim adventure without some shiny new loot? Sigil of the Fallen introduces three incredibly powerful, fully upgradeable relics that feature unique gameplay mechanics rather than standard stat boosts:

    • The Shield: Features a massive slam ability to clear out groups of aggressive enemies.
    • The Mace: Perfect for melee builds, allowing you to instantly close the distance between you and your target.
    • The Staff: Allows mages to summon volatile, explosive orbs to control the battlefield.

    As you dive deeper into the backstories of the items’ original owners, you’ll unlock materials to upgrade these weapons into devastating end-game gear.

    Ghost Hunting Across Tamriel

    The expansion integrates seamlessly into the wider world of Skyrim. The spirits unleashed by the Sigil Geode will actively possess items, furniture, doors, and enemies throughout the map. You can take on official jobs from the Priests of Arkay to clear out these hauntings, hunting down spirits to harvest the essential materials required to upgrade your Spirit Companion.

    TechMash Tip: Sigil of the Fallen is fully voice-acted with professional quality, making it feel like native DLC. It is highly recommended for characters Level 20 or higher. You can trigger the questline automatically by speaking to any Innkeeper for work once you hit level 20, or you can manually discover the cave entrance northeast of Markarth at any level!

    The Verdict

    If you’ve been looking for a reason to lose another 20 hours to Skyrim, Sigil of the Fallen is it. Priced at 1000 Creation Credits on the official Bethesda Creations store for PC and Xbox, it delivers a level of polish, voice acting, and mechanical innovation that rivals Bethesda’s own expansions.

    Are you going to dive back into Skyrim to conquer the Soul Sanctum? Let us know your thoughts on this new Creation in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #Skyrim #ElderScrolls #SigilOfTheFallen #SkyrimCreations #GamingNews #RPG #Bethesda #KinggathCreations #Xbox #PCGaming #TechMash

  • Back Into the Storm: The Division 2 Recruits Agents for ‘Into the Dark’

    Back Into the Storm: The Division 2 Recruits Agents for ‘Into the Dark’

    Ubisoft has officially dropped the narrative cinematic trailer for The Division 2: Into the Dark, and it’s safe to say that Washington D.C. is about to get a whole lot bloodier. If you thought the capital was finally stabilising after pushing back the Black Tusk, think again. The vacuum has been filled, and an old enemy is back with a terrifyingly potent upgrade.

    Check out the trailer breakdown and what this means for your next drop into the capital.

    The Hyenas Have a New Addictive Edge

    The narrative cinematic sets up a bleak new reality on the streets. With the Black Tusk presence weakened, the chaotic Hyena faction has seized the opportunity to tighten their grip on Washington D.C.

    How? They’ve weaponised a brand-new, highly volatile variant of “Spice.” This isn’t just a street drug anymore; it’s a chemical compound recovered right out of the Dark Zone that makes their fighters hyper-aggressive, incredibly resistant to pain, and brutal to bring down. Civilians are going missing, chaos is spreading, and the streets are slipping back into total anarchy.

    “To push them back, you must return to the most dangerous place in Washington D.C.—The Dark Zone.”

    Redefining the Dark Zone Experience

    This season places the Dark Zones directly at the heart of the endgame narrative, and Ubisoft is backing it up with a massive gameplay overhaul. Whether you are a hardcore PvP sweeper or a PvE player who usually avoids the DZ like the plague, Into the Dark has something for you:

    • The Toxic Dark Zone (PvE Variant): A seasonal, 12-agent shared space designed for players who want high-stakes extraction tension without the constant threat of rogue PvP players. You’ll fight waves of buffed Hyenas, manage severe “Toxicity” mechanics, and extract Sample Cannisters to disrupt the Spice supply line.
    • The Balanced Dark Zone (PvPvE): For the purists. This zone features high-level normalisation based on Conflict rules. SHD Watch and Expertise bonuses are completely disabled here, levelling the playing field so that tactical skill—not just hours gritted into a build—determines who wins a gunfight.
    • PvP Rebalancing: Ubisoft is kicking off a long-term campaign to overhaul PvP, starting with massive tweaks to overperforming and underused Weapon and Gear Talents to diversify the meta.

    High Stakes, High Rewards

    If you’re brave enough to step into these updated zones, the loot table upgrades are massive. Exotic Component drop rates from Landmark Chests have been bumped up significantly (up to 40% in PvP DZs and 25% in the Toxic DZ), meaning optimising your endgame builds is about to get a lot smoother.

    Coupled with a fresh Season Pass, an upcoming Incursion later in the season, and two new Classified Assignments (Conspiracy Zone Hideout and McMillan Reservoir Assault), Into the Dark is shaping up to be one of the most intense, high-stakes updates the game has seen in years.

    The Into the Dark update is live right now. Lock and load, Agents—it’s time to head back into the shadows.

    Are you ready to face the upgraded Hyenas, or will you be sticking to the light? Let us know your thoughts on the new cinematic and the PvE Dark Zone in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #TheDivision2 #IntoTheDark #Ubisoft #GamingNews #TomClancy #DarkZone #PCGaming #Xbox #PS5 #TechMash

  • Pack Your Bags for Purr-fect Paradise: Cosy Pixel-Art Management Game ‘Cat Isle’ Launches This July!

    Pack Your Bags for Purr-fect Paradise: Cosy Pixel-Art Management Game ‘Cat Isle’ Launches This July!

    The cosy gaming renaissance is in full swing, and indie developers are continuing to prove that some of the best experiences come from the smallest teams. Case in point: PixelDuckoo and DomkeGames, a talented two-person indie development powerhouse, have officially announced that their highly anticipated management game, Cat Isle, is scheduled to launch on July 20, 2026.

    If you’ve been looking for a charming, low-stress title to add to your wishlist, this beautifully hand-drawn pixel-art adventure is looking like an absolute must-play.

    What is Cat Isle?

    Inspired by Japan’s world-famous real-life “Cat Islands,” Cat Isle transports players to a quiet, isolated train platform island right in the middle of the ocean. Your goal? Take this sleepy, seaside platform and gradually transform it into a bustling, vibrant, and utterly adorable coastal town entirely dedicated to feline residents and visitors.

    The core gameplay beautifully blends light simulation and city-builder elements with a heavy emphasis on atmosphere, player expression, and—most importantly—pure relaxation.

    Key Features to Look Forward To:

    • Chill Management Mechanics: Keep your eye on your shops. You’ll need to balance supply and demand while learning the unique quirks and culinary preferences of your cat clientele (some might crave fresh sashimi, while others just want tea and a warm spot for a nap!).
    • Deep Customisation: Build up to 17+ unique buildings and unlock over 100 hand-drawn pixel-art decorations.
    • The Gashapon Machine: Spin the in-game Gashapon machine to unlock random capsules containing plants, shop ornaments, and cosy items to inject personality into your island town.
    • 4 Distinct Levels & Sandbox Mode: Follow structured goals across 4 themed areas or completely unwind in the sandbox mode.
    • Vibe and Fish: When you aren’t managing the shops, you can take a breather, do some fishing, interact directly with the cats, or simply sit back and watch the sunset over the water.

    Made by Two, Loved by Many

    What makes Cat Isle even more impressive is its development story. Crafted entirely by a two-person team, the game focuses heavily on quality over artificial length, promising a highly polished, deeply therapeutic 2 to 4 hours of gameplay that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.

    If you want a taste of the island life before the full launch, a playable demo is currently live on Steam. It’s already garnered a 97% positive rating from players who praise its incredibly soothing soundtrack, gorgeous aesthetic, and overall cosy vibes.

    Release Date and Platforms

    Cat Isle is officially set to unlock on July 20, 2026. It will be available for Windows PC and Mac via Steam, with full language support for English, Japanese, and Simplified Chinese.

    Make sure to head over to Steam, try out the demo, and hit that wishlist button to support this fantastic duo of indie creators!

    Are you ready to catch a train to Cat Isle? Let us know your favourite cosy indie games in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #CatIsle #IndieGames #CozyGaming #PixelArt #SteamGames #PCGaming #MacGaming #IndieDev #GamingNews #PixelDuckoo #DomkeGames

  • Here Comes The Swarm Drops Massive Early Access Update: Meet the New Deity, Yangwu!

    Here Comes The Swarm Drops Massive Early Access Update: Meet the New Deity, Yangwu!

    Surviving the alien hordes in Ulora just got a serious strategic upgrade. Indie developer CableHook Games has officially rolled out its third major content update for the Steam Early Access hit, Here Comes The Swarm.

    Marking the successful completion of the team’s initial development roadmap, this latest drop is packed to the brim with meta-changing mechanics, massive quality-of-life improvements, and a brand-new deity designed to supercharge your resource management.

    If you’ve been looking for an excuse to dive back into this tense, tactical-pause survival RTS, this is it. Here is everything you need to know about the latest update.

    Bow Down to Yangwu: The Ultimate Economic Powerhouse

    The star of this update is undoubtedly Yangwu, an all-new deity tailored specifically for players who love optimising their economy and settlement layout. If your strategy relies on massive resource production and creating late-game synergies, Yangwu is about to become your go-to choice.

    Yangwu introduces an entire suite of economy-boosting blessings and mechanics:

    • The Yangwu Workshop: A brand-new buildable workshop that increases the production of nearby buildings by a whopping 30%.
    • Hand of Yangwu: Start your skirmish with Yangwu’s Bracelet, a powerful relic that earns Tribute from kills, chests, and shrines. Deposit this Tribute at your workshop to unlock massive global buffs.
    • Disconnected Efficiency: In a brilliant twist for base layout flexibility, Yangwu’s blessings allow production buildings not connected to your main Core to operate with an additional 30% effectiveness.
    • Resource Abundance: From spawning an extra Geyser near your Core to offering a 20% refund value on dead units and demolished buildings, Yangwu ensures your war chest stays full.

    New Essences & Tactical Overhauls

    Alongside Yangwu, CableHook Games has expanded the game’s roguelike customisation with a variety of new Essences. You can now experiment with boons like Compound Interest (which increases your production income based on stored resources) or Tent Subsidies to generate extra Blood Rubies from your dwellings.

    Furthermore, the mechanics for disconnected structures have been completely reworked across the board. Previously, any building cut off from your Core would shut down entirely. Now, they will continue to operate at a baseline of 40% efficiency—keeping your economy alive even when the Swarm breaches your perimeter.

    Quality-of-Life Upgrades: Better Intelligence, Smoother Battles

    You can’t fight what you can’t see, and this update gives players much better tools to anticipate incoming attacks. The minimap has received a major overhaul:

    • Wave Visibility: Enemy waves and their exact spawn ranges are now permanently visible on your minimap.
    • Early Warning System: Wave locations are now announced a full two minutes in advance across all difficulty settings, giving you ample time to position your armies and fortify your walls.
    • Clarity Timers: New countdown timers and tooltips display exactly how much preparation time you have left before the bugs arrive.

    The patch also brings extensive under-the-hood performance optimisations (specifically targeting rendering jitter and Ballista projectiles) alongside a long list of community-requested bug fixes, including fixes for unit pathfinding and clipping.

    What’s Next for Here Comes The Swarm?

    With the initial roadmap officially cleared, CableHook Games isn’t slowing down. The developers have already updated the in-game roadmap to tease what’s on the horizon—including three more major content updates and a highly anticipated, fully-fledged story campaign.

    Have you tried out Yangwu yet? Let us know your ultimate economy builds in the comments below!

    Here Comes The Swarm successfully blends the intense, nail-biting survival of They Are Billions with the tactical flexibility of a roguelike deckbuilder. If you haven’t played it yet, you can grab it right now on Steam Early Access—and yes, there’s currently a playable demo if you want to test your defences first!

    Find out more here

    #GamingNews #HereComesTheSwarm #CableHookGames #SurvivalRTS #IndieGames #SteamEarlyAccess #PCGaming #RTSTactics #GamingUpdate #TechMash #Gaming

  • Titan Quest II Just Dropped Its Massive “Wild Lands” Update: Are You Ready to Face Nemesis?

    Titan Quest II Just Dropped Its Massive “Wild Lands” Update: Are You Ready to Face Nemesis?

    The threads of fate are unravelling, Demigods. Grimlore Games and THQ Nordic have just unleashed the biggest early access update for Titan Quest II yet—Chapter 4: The Wild Lands. If you thought your journey through mythic Greece was getting comfortable, think again. The Goddess of Retribution, Nemesis, has stopped plotting from the shadows and is ready to test your absolute limits.

    Here is everything you need to know about the massive new challenge awaiting you in the untamed wilderness.

    Step Into the Wild Lands

    The heart of this update is a massive, handcrafted expansion of the game world. The Wild Lands are beautiful but utterly unforgiving. As you explore, you will traverse diverse new biomes that showcase the verticality and detail of Unreal Engine 5:

    • Ancient Ruins & Hidden Secrets: Walk among the remains of colossal creatures that once ruled the earth.
    • The Buried City: Unearth mysteries from a city long swallowed by the desert sands.
    • Perilous Swamps & Enemy Encampments: Navigate treacherous mires and push through heavily fortified centaur camps.
    • The Temple of Nemesis: A massive, daunting structure dedicated to the Goddess of Retribution herself.

    With over 30 new quests, this exploration-focused chapter ensures that every hidden grove and deep cavern holds either legendary loot or a fight for your life.

    New Threats: Boarmen and Rival Centaurs

    Surviving the Wild Lands requires more than just button-mashing. The update introduces deadly new enemy factions, including brutal Boarmen and heavily organised Centaur tribes.

    These foes won’t just charge blindly; they utilise smart faction AI to work together, combining their unique skills to flank and disrupt your build. To top it off, the conflict with the centaurs reaches its climax here as you prepare to confront King Centaurus himself.

    Level Cap Raised and Tier 5 Passives Unlocked

    To help you survive the fury of a literal goddess, the development team has given players a serious power boost:

    • Level Cap Increased: You can now power your hero all the way up to Level 55.
    • Tier 5 Passives: Unlock devastating new endgame passive skills to further refine your hybrid masteries.
    • New Relics & Charms: Deeper build optimisation is now possible, allowing you to fine-tune your stats, affix-craft your weapons, and maximise your combat efficiency.

    The Verdict: If you’ve been waiting for a reason to jump back into Titan Quest II Early Access, Chapter 4 is it. The scale of the Wild Lands, combined with the looming threat of Nemesis, makes this a definitive moment for the ARPG sequel. Grab your divine mount, call on your friends for multiplayer co-op, and go prove your immortality.

    Titan Quest II: Chapter 4: Wild Lands is available now on PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store.

    Find out more here

    #TitanQuest2 #WildLandsUpdate #ARPG #GamingNews #PCGaming #THQNordic #GrimloreGames #MythologyGaming #HackAndSlash #EarlyAccess