TECHMASH

Tag: #platformer

  • Dark Scrolls is launching in 2026 on PC and Nintendo Switch!

    Dark Scrolls is launching in 2026 on PC and Nintendo Switch!

    Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the “masocore” genre or just someone who appreciates a beautifully crafted pixelated death, the team at Doinksoft has something special cooking.

    Fresh off the heels of the gritty Gunbrella and the cat-in-a-mech cult classic Gato Roboto, Doinksoft and publisher Devolver Digital have officially pulled back the curtain on Dark Scrolls.

    Coming to PC (Steam) and Nintendo Switch later in 2026, this title is shaping up to be one of the most chaotic indie releases of the year. Here’s why it should be on your radar.

    What is Dark Scrolls?

    At its core, Dark Scrolls is a “pixel-perfect dungeon scroller.” Imagine the methodical exploration of a classic 1980s dungeon crawler blended with the bullet-hell intensity of a “shmup” (shoot ’em up).

    According to Doinksoft’s Cullen Dwyer, the game was born out of a bit of healthy frustration with the modern “roguelike” label. Dwyer joked that while many modern games claim the title, few capture the gridlocked, high-stakes tension of the 80s originals. Dark Scrolls aims to bridge that gap—mixing old-school difficulty with modern, fluid controls.

    Key Features to Get Excited About

    A “Rogue’s Gallery” of Heroes: You won’t just be playing as a generic knight. There are nine unlockable heroes, ranging from burly berserkers to… a saxophone-playing rat. Each comes with unique skills, side objectives, and customizable trinkets.

    Chaos with a Friend: The game features both local and online co-op. You can strategise with a buddy, combine elemental powers, and—perhaps most importantly—revive each other when things inevitably go sideways.

    Procedural Mastery: While the rooms themselves are hand-crafted to ensure high-quality level design, the way they are stitched together is procedurally generated. No two runs will feel the same.

    Arcade Alchemy: As you progress, you’ll visit Bruce & Goose’s Shoppe to spend your hard-earned coins on perks and summoned allies. Stack them correctly, and you’ll unleash the kind of “screen-filling destruction” usually reserved for arcade legends.

    The Doinksoft Signature

    If you’ve played Gato Roboto or Gunbrella, you know what to expect: tight mechanics, a distinct visual identity, and a quirky sense of humour. The reveal trailer showcases a vibrant, high-energy world where you’re just as likely to hurl a magical axe as you are to “flip a steak” at a bizarre enemy.

    The game isn’t just a test of reflexes; it’s an invitation to explore a world packed with secrets and branching paths. Whether you’re playing solo on your PC or taking the chaos on the go with the Switch, Dark Scrolls looks like it’s going to be a must-play for 2026.

    Stay Tuned to Techmash

    We’ll be keeping a close eye on the exact release date as Devolver Digital drops more info later this year. For now, you can head over to Steam to add Dark Scrolls to your wishlist!

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

    #Doinksoft #devolverdigital #darkscrolls #hackandslash #combat #battles #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Gridiron Remastered the immersive football game on Steam now

    Gridiron Remastered the immersive football game on Steam now

    Whether you’re a veteran of the original Gridiron or a newcomer looking for a competitive sports fix that isn’t another Madden clone, it’s time to lace up.

    1336 Studios has officially revealed Gridiron Remastered for Steam, bringing their signature fast-paced 7v7 American football action back to the PC spotlight. This isn’t just a simple port; the developers have rebuilt the experience from the ground up in Unreal Engine 5 to deliver a more responsive, visually striking, and refined take on the sport.

    Football Reimagined: What Is Gridiron Remastered?

    Unlike traditional football sims where you manage an entire team from a bird’s-eye view, Gridiron Remastered puts you directly in the cleats of a single player. From an immersive third-person perspective, you are responsible for your own positioning, timing, and execution.

    Whether you’re threading the needle as a Quarterback, burning defenders as a Wide Receiver, or delivering a bone-crushing hit on defense, the focus is on skill-based mechanics rather than automated animations.

    Key Features at a Glance

    7v7 & 5v5 Competitive Action: While the 7v7 mode is the bread and butter of the experience, the game also supports smaller 5v5 matches and custom 3v3 battles for those who want a tighter, more frantic game.

    Unreal Engine 5 Overhaul: The jump to UE5 isn’t just for show. Players can expect significantly improved lighting, smoother animations, and more detailed stadium environments.

    True Teamwork: Since every player on the field is human-controlled, communication and “football IQ” are paramount. You’ll need to coordinate routes and defensive schemes in real-time to come out on top.

    Shaped by the Community: 1336 Studios has a history of working closely with its player base. Gridiron Remastered incorporates years of feedback from the original Gridiron 1.0, which saw over 100,000 downloads during its initial run.

    Why the “Remastered” Label Matters

    For those following the studio’s journey, the transition from the original version to Remastered represents a massive technical leap. By refactoring code and moving to a modern engine, the team has solved many of the “janky” physics issues that occasionally plagued the early access version, replacing them with a precision-based system where every pass and tackle feels earned.

    The Verdict

    The sports gaming landscape often feels dominated by annual AAA releases that struggle to innovate. Gridiron Remastered offers a refreshing alternative: a competitive, community-driven multiplayer experience that treats American football like a high-stakes tactical esport.

    Gridiron Remastered is currently listed as “Coming Soon” on Steam. You can head over to the official Steam page now to add it to your wishlist and stay updated on upcoming playtests.

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

    #1336Studios #GridironRemastered #7v7AmericanFootball #Steam #Football #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • The Wait is Over: Shenmue III Enhanced Details, Trailer, and Pre-Orders Revealed

    The Wait is Over: Shenmue III Enhanced Details, Trailer, and Pre-Orders Revealed

    For those of us who spent decades waiting for the third chapter of Ryo Hazuki’s journey, the 2019 release of Shenmue III was a dream come true—if a polarising one. Today, publisher ININ Games and developer YS NET have officially pulled back the curtain on the “definitive” version of the game.

    Whether you’re a purist who wants the classic experience or a newcomer looking for a smoother ride, Shenmue III Enhanced is shaping up to be the version we’ve been waiting for.

    Bringing Ryo to the Current Gen

    The big news? The game is officially coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Steam), and the Nintendo Switch 2 in Q4 2026.

    One of the most impressive reveals is for the Switch 2 version: unlike many modern releases that rely on “Game Key Cards,” the physical Switch 2 edition will feature the full game on the cartridge.

    What’s Actually “Enhanced”?

    This isn’t just a simple port. YS NET has listened to the community feedback from the original launch, introducing a suite of technical and gameplay overhauls:

    Visual Fidelity: We’re looking at a 4K texture uplift, sharper environments, and support for DLSS/FSR to keep those frame rates smooth.

    A Living World: The village of Niaowu will feel significantly more populated with an increase in NPC density.

    The “Classic Camera”: For those who miss the feel of the Dreamcast originals, a new optional camera mode mimics the perspective of Shenmue I & II.

    Quality of Life: Optional tweaks allow you to adjust the stamina system, restore health before fights, and reduce the “money grind” that slowed down the original’s progression.

    Optionality First: In a move that respects the hardcore fanbase, every single enhancement can be toggled off, allowing you to play the exact 2019 experience if you prefer.

    Collector’s Editions & Pre-Orders

    Pre-orders have officially opened today (March 19, 2026). If you’re a die-hard fan, you’ll want to look at the three available tiers:

    Standard – The base game with a gorgeous new cover art.

    Special – Includes an art book and the A Gamer’s Journey: The Definitive History of Shenmue Blu-ray.

    Collector’s – All of the above, plus a 15cm Ryo Hazuki training figure, a wooden move scroll, and a forklift keychain.

    The Verdict

    While we are still waiting for a specific release date (expected to be announced “in the coming weeks”), the trailer shows a game that finally matches the visual expectations of a modern title while keeping its quirky, slow-burn soul intact.

    Yu Suzuki also included a personal message to the community in the new trailer, thanking fans for their patience. It seems the journey to find Lan Di—and perhaps the path to Shenmue IV—is looking brighter than ever.

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

    #YsNet #ININGames #ShenmueIIIEnhanced #Shenmue #prhound #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Villainy is Survival: Corefun Studios Unveils Solar Echoes: Star Fated

    Villainy is Survival: Corefun Studios Unveils Solar Echoes: Star Fated

    The universe of Solar Echoes is expanding, but this time, you aren’t the hero. Corefun Studios has officially pulled back the curtain on its latest project, Solar Echoes: Star Fated, a top-down 2D open-world space Action-RPG that flips the script on traditional sci-fi adventures.

    Announced this week with a gritty debut trailer, Star Fated places players in the cockpit of a ship commanded by Asteron, a ruthless criminal who has just pulled off the heist of a lifetime. The catch? You aren’t just running from the law; you’re running from everyone.

    A Galaxy of Enemies

    In Star Fated, the “hero” is a hunted man. After stealing a mysterious alien artefact, Asteron finds himself in the crosshairs of every major power in the galaxy:

    The Black Stars: A powerful and vengeful crime syndicate.

    The Union Guard: The intergalactic law enforcement keeping the peace.

    Pirates & Bounty Hunters: Freelancers looking for the massive price on your head.

    Perhaps most interestingly, the danger isn’t just outside the hull. Your crew of six aliens was hired under false pretences—they don’t know who you really are yet. As the truth emerges, you’ll have to manage a crew that fears you as much as they rely on you for survival.

    Key Gameplay Features

    Corefun Studios is moving away from the visual novel style of The Star Legation and leaning into high-octane, real-time tactical combat inspired by classics like Starflight.

    Real-Time Ship Combat: Engage in top-down dogfights where your piloting skills are just as vital as your ship’s loadout.

    Deep Customisation: With over 750 equipment items, players can overhaul weapons, shields, engines, and armour using loot and scrap salvaged from destroyed enemies.

    A Living World: The galaxy reacts to your villainy. Raid a supply ship, and you’ll see those goods disappear from local stations. Your actions are tracked via news broadcasts, and NPC encounters branch based on your reputation.

    No Hand-Holding: Taking a cue from retro RPGs, there are no quest markers over NPCs. You’ll need to explore, listen, and piece together clues to find your next objective.

    “Star Fated is Asteron’s origin story — and the first time players get to experience the Solar Echoes universe from the criminal’s side.” — Andy Mitchell, Lead Developer at Corefun Studios.

    Release Outlook

    While the game is currently in early development, Corefun Studios has confirmed a target release window for late 2027 or early 2028. The title is slated for PC (Steam) and PS5, with a projected price point of £16.99 / $19.99.

    For fans of the Solar Echoes tabletop RPG or those who just want to see if they’re “bad enough to survive,” Star Fated is shaping up to be a unique, character-driven entry into the space RPG genre.

    You can wishlist Solar Echoes: Star Fated on Steam now to stay updated on its progress.

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

    #CorefunStudios #SolarEchoesStarFated #StarFated #SolarEchoes #IndieGame #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Skytail comes to Meta Quest Headsets On March 26th

    Skytail comes to Meta Quest Headsets On March 26th

    As we approach the end of March, the VR landscape is about to get a whole lot more majestic. Today, Coatsink (the team behind Jurassic World: Aftermath and Gang Beasts) has officially confirmed that their highly anticipated aerial adventure, Skytail, is launching on Meta Quest headsets on March 26th, 2026.

    If you’ve ever wanted to trade the rainy UK streets for a flight through the clouds on the back of a legendary bird, this is your ticket.

    The Story: A High-Flying Rescue Mission

    In Skytail, you live a peaceful existence among the clouds alongside your birdlike companion. However, that peace is shattered when “corrupted fiends” invade your home and steal your Skytail’s offspring.

    It’s a classic rescue setup, but with a vertical twist. You aren’t just a passenger; you are a protector. To get the youngsters back, you’ll need to master ancient telekinetic powers to fend off enemies and navigate the treacherous floating islands of this vibrant world.

    Telekinesis Meets Gesture Control

    What makes Skytail stand out in the crowded Quest library is its focus on gesture-based telekinesis. Instead of just pressing buttons, you’ll use elegant hand movements to:

    Crush and Tear: Rip apart enemy machines or creatures mid-air.

    Hurl Projectiles: Catch incoming fire and throw it back at the source for maximum impact.

    Interact with the World: From feeding your companion to solving environmental puzzles, the telekinetic gameplay feels like a natural extension of your hands.

    Supported Headsets

    The game is hitting the ground (or rather, the sky) running with support for the entire current Meta ecosystem:

    Meta Quest 3 & 3S (Optimised for the latest hardware)

    Meta Quest 2

    Meta Quest Pro

    “We’ve created a charming world for players to explore and a bunch of fun powers that really make the most of VR. Throwing monsters around is instantly satisfying!” — Richard Snowdon, Coatsink CEO

    Why You Should Be Excited

    Coatsink has a reputation for polished, personality-driven VR experiences. Early trailers suggest a visual style that is both “adorable” and “grand,” balancing the high-stakes action of aerial combat with the quiet moments of bonding with your mount.

    With the release date set for March 26th, you only have a few days left to clear some space in your “VR room” (and maybe warn the cat) before taking to the skies.

    Are you ready to harness the power of the ancients? Let us know in the comments if you’ll be picking this up on launch day!

    Find out more here – https://coatsink.com/games/skytail

    #coatsink #skytail #vrgames #meta #flying #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Scrubbing the Stars: Cleaner Company Brings Sci-Fi Sanitation to PC

    Scrubbing the Stars: Cleaner Company Brings Sci-Fi Sanitation to PC

    Move over, PowerWash Simulator—there’s a new mess in town, and it’s light-years away. Cleaner Company, the highly anticipated sci-fi co-op cleaning sim from developer Wildflame Studio and publisher Mythwright, has officially been announced for a 2026 release on Steam and the Epic Games Store.

    If you’ve ever looked at a derelict space station in a horror movie and thought, “Someone really needs to mop up that alien goo,” this is the game for you.

    Mops, Monsters, and Zero-G

    In Cleaner Company, you play as a member of the “Star Wipers,” an elite (and perhaps slightly underpaid) sanitation crew tasked with tidying up the messiest corners of the cosmos. Whether it’s an abandoned space station, an unexplored planet, or a ruined intergalactic restaurant, no job is too grisly for your mop.

    Key Features to Expect:

    4-Player Co-op: Join forces with up to three friends to tackle massive cleanup jobs. Teamwork is essential—especially when one of you is scrubbing the floors and the other is watching for “biological hazards.”

    Physics-Based Chaos: Managing debris and liquid spills is tricky enough on Earth, but doing it in low-gravity environments adds a whole new layer of tactical challenge.

    Hazardous Duty: You aren’t just cleaning up spilt coffee. You’ll be disposing of the “corpses of your predecessors” and dealing with dangerous lifeforms that haven’t quite vacated the premises yet.

    High-Tech Tools: Use an arsenal of specialised sci-fi gear to scrub, repair, and restore these environments. Collecting resources allows you to upgrade your equipment for even tougher jobs.

    A Mix of Zen and Survival

    While the core gameplay offers that “oddly satisfying” zen feeling we love from simulation games, Cleaner Company injects a healthy dose of survival horror and environmental storytelling. As you clear away the grime, you’ll uncover clues about what happened to the previous inhabitants—and why they left such a bloody mess behind.

    “Star Wipers, ready your mops! Start by tidying away the corpses of your predecessors.” — Official Game Description

    Release Details

    Cleaner Company is slated for a 2026 launch. While we don’t have a specific date just yet, the game is already making waves with its atmospheric trailer and a “Prologue” version that has given early players a taste of the cosmic janitor life.

    Techmash Verdict: If you love the co-op chaos of Lethal Company but wish there was more “cleaning up the evidence” involved, keep this one on your radar.

    Find out more here – https://mythwright.com/games/cleaner-company

    #CLEANERCOMPANY #DeepSpaceCoopCleaningSim #scifi #mythwright #WildflameStudio #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Duck Side of the Moon launching on PC & Nintendo Switch in May

    Duck Side of the Moon launching on PC & Nintendo Switch in May

    Move over, Neil Armstrong—there’s a new explorer in town, and he’s significantly more aerodynamic. Dutch indie studio Starbrew Games has officially announced that their cosy space adventure, Duck Side of the Moon, is set to launch on PC (Steam and Epic Games Store) and Nintendo Switch on May 7th, 2026.

    If you’ve ever felt like the daily grind was getting a bit too “heavy,” this game is designed to be the perfect counterweight. You play as Doug, an overworked duck astronaut who, after a mission goes sideways, finds himself crash-landed in a whimsical, neon-soaked corner of the galaxy.

    A Galaxy Built on Vibes

    Forget the high-stakes survival horror often associated with space; Duck Side of the Moon is all about the “cosy.” Your main objective? Turning a literal crash site into a home.

    The planet Doug lands on isn’t just a hunk of rock—it’s inhabited by Geodes, a race of sentient, disco-loving rocks who live to boogie. To get your ship back into the stars, you’ll need to help these chatty pebbles rediscover their groove through wholesome quests and exploration.

    Key Features to Get Excited About:

    Waddle & Fly: Explore a vibrant open world at your own pace—no timers, no stress.

    Space DIY: Mine rare minerals in glowing caves to craft gadgets and upgrade your ship.

    Customisation: Turn your spaceship into a sanctuary with couches and even basketball hoops. Plus, you can dress Doug in a variety of silly outfits and hats.

    The Quack Button: Yes, there is a dedicated button to quack at the local wildlife (and disco rocks).

    Why It’s On Our Radar

    Developed by a team of six graduates from the Netherlands, Duck Side of the Moon has already made waves in the indie scene. The Steam demo currently boasts a 100% “Very Positive” rating, with players praising its chilled-out atmosphere and charming art style. It’s a heartfelt story about finding a home and the importance of taking a break—something we could all probably use.

    “Maybe this break is exactly what Doug needs!” — Starbrew Games

    Mark Your Calendars

    Whether you’re looking to lounge on your sofa with the Nintendo Switch or explore on PC, you won’t have to wait long.

    If you can’t wait until May, the free demo is still available on Steam to give you a taste of the first island. It’s time to get your ducks in a row (or at least one duck in a spaceship).

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

    #StarbrewGames #DuckSideoftheMoon #spaceship #astronaut #moonlanding #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • In Their Shoes the mumblecore narrative game launches on Steam

    In Their Shoes the mumblecore narrative game launches on Steam

    Whether you’re a fan of high-stakes RPGs or fast-paced shooters, sometimes the most compelling stories are the ones that happen in the quiet moments between the chaos. Today, independent Milanese studio We Are Muesli officially launches In Their Shoes, a “mumblecore” narrative game that trades grand quests for the intimate, messy, and beautiful reality of everyday life.

    Set against the backdrop of contemporary Milan, In Their Shoes invites you to step into the lives of seven different characters across 49 interactive “Moments.” Here is why this indie gem should be on your radar today.

    What is “Mumblecore” Gaming?

    Inspired by the film subgenre of the same name, mumblecore games focus on naturalistic acting, dialogue-heavy narratives, and the subtle nuances of interpersonal relationships. In In Their Shoes, the focus isn’t on saving the world—it’s about navigating a tense conversation with a boss, reconnecting with an old friend, or the quiet anxiety of a phone call to a partner.

    Key Features:

    7 Characters, 49 Moments: Each “Moment” lasts about five minutes, making it perfect for bite-sized play sessions or a deep-dive binge.

    The Timeline Puzzle: The story is a “fragmented diary.” You’ll need to collect biographical keywords and use narrative clues to reconstruct the overarching timeline across four seasons.

    Real-Time Stakes: While much of the game moves at your own pace, certain moments—like a goodbye as train doors are closing—feature timed choices that heighten the emotional tension.

    Stereotype Breaking: The game gently challenges assumptions around gender, culture, and lifestyle, offering a grounded look at identity in a modern city.

    Lo-Fi Atmosphere: Featuring a combinatory original soundtrack by Nicolò Sala (Wheels of Aurelia), the game’s aesthetic is built around presence and empathy rather than spectacle.

    Why You Should Play It

    In Their Shoes was an A MAZE. nominated project, and for good reason. It’s a rare type of game that rewards you for paying attention to the “small stuff.” By unlocking deeper inner thoughts for each character, you can revisit earlier moments with a new perspective, revealing how hidden motivations shape the choices we make.

    If you’re looking for a narrative experience that feels honest, human, and distinctively “now,” this is it.

    Availability

    In Their Shoes is available starting today, March 18, 2026, on Steam for Windows and Mac. To celebrate the launch, there is a limited-time discount, so it’s the perfect time to grab it for your collection.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/J5x3E

    #WeAreMuesli #InTheirShoes #mumblecore #narrativegame #Steam #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Captain Tsubasa 2: World Fighters — New System Trailer Breaks Down the “Super Action Soccer” Mechanics

    Captain Tsubasa 2: World Fighters — New System Trailer Breaks Down the “Super Action Soccer” Mechanics

    Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. has just blown the whistle on a brand-new system trailer for CAPTAIN TSUBASA 2: WORLD FIGHTERS, and it’s looking like a total evolution of the arcade soccer formula we loved in Rise of New Champions.

    Developed by the team at TAMSOFT CORPORATION, this sequel is doubling down on the “Super Action Soccer” identity, trading realistic physics for the high-octane, gravity-defying spectacle of the classic anime and manga.

    What’s New on the Pitch?

    The latest trailer gives us a deep dive into the evolved battle system. Forget basic passes and headers; World Fighters is all about resource management, timing, and cinematic flair. Here are the core mechanics highlighted in the reveal:

    Max Actions: These are high-risk, high-reward power moves designed to dominate exchanges. Whether you’re on the offensive or defensive, a well-timed Max Action can completely change the momentum of a drive.

    The Chain System: Success breeds success. By stringing together successful dribbles, passes, and special actions, you build momentum that amplifies your shot power and significantly increases your charge speed.

    Super Moves: Every position gets the “Super” treatment. We’re talking character-specific Super Shots, Super Passes, Super Dribbles, and even Super Tackles for the defenders.

    Goalkeeper Tactics: Scoring just got more strategic. Goalkeepers now use a six-directional shot prediction system and stamina-based duels. You can even “break” a keeper’s defence, permanently reducing their stamina for the rest of the match.

    Miracle Actions: These are rare, dramatic comeback mechanics that capture the “never give up” spirit of Tsubasa Ozora himself, allowing for tide-turning plays when your back is against the wall.

    A Massive Roster and New Story

    While the gameplay is the star of this trailer, the scope of the game shouldn’t be overlooked. Bandai Namco has confirmed that World Fighters will feature:

    22 National Teams

    110+ Playable Characters

    150+ Unique Animated Moves

    The game is set to adapt the Battle of World Youth arc, which follows Japan’s quest for the U-20 World Cup title. Fans can also look forward to seeing the legendary Natureza finally make his appearance.

    “From breathtaking aerial shots to last-second miracle saves, every match is a cinematic battle of reflexes and strategy.” — Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc.

    Release Details

    CAPTAIN TSUBASA 2: WORLD FIGHTERS is sprinting toward a global release later in 2026. It will be available on almost everything: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch (and reportedly Switch 2), and PC via Steam.

    Stay tuned to Techmash for more updates as we get closer to the kick-off!

    Find out more here on Bandai Namco – https://shorturl.at/jZtJw

    #BandaiNamcoEntertainment #CAPTAINTSUBASA #CAPTAINTSUBASA2WORLDFIGHTERS #footballbattlesystem #football #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Introducing ‘Scenic’: The Relaxing Pixel-Art Escape Room We’ve Been Waiting For

    Introducing ‘Scenic’: The Relaxing Pixel-Art Escape Room We’ve Been Waiting For

    In a gaming landscape often dominated by high-octane battle royales and stressful soulslikes, there is something profoundly satisfying about slowing down. That is exactly what developer Inblue Games is inviting us to do with their newly announced title, Scenic.

    A departure from the high-pressure “timer-ticking” tropes of the escape room genre, Scenic is an atmospheric, point-and-click puzzle game that trades panic for peace.

    A World Behind Every Door

    Scenic isn’t just one big escape; it’s a nonlinear collection of beautifully rendered “micro-worlds.” The game presents you with a series of independent rooms, each tucked away behind a different door.

    The beauty here lies in the freedom. If you find yourself stumped by a particular puzzle in a rainy, water-logged room, you don’t have to bang your head against the wall. You can simply walk out, try a night-themed room under the stars, or a sun-drenched space filled with shadow-play, and return when you’ve had a “eureka” moment.

    Gameplay: Focused Observation

    One of the most unique aspects of Scenic is its perspective. Most rooms are presented across four distinct frames, each depicting one side of a wall.

    Minimalist Design: By limiting the viewpoint, the puzzles feel manageable rather than overwhelming.

    Environmental Storytelling: Every object in the room is there for a reason. You’ll need to examine textures, light, and sound to uncover the reality-bending secrets hidden within.

    Metapuzzles: For the completionists among us, the game hints at optional “metapuzzles” that require you to gather clues from across multiple rooms to unlock the game’s deepest secrets.

    Why Pixel Art Still Rules in 2026

    There’s a reason why the “liminal space” aesthetic and pixel art go so well together. The lo-fi visuals leave just enough room for the imagination to fill in the gaps, creating a nostalgic yet slightly surreal atmosphere. In Scenic, the art style isn’t just a filter; it’s a tool used to create “boundless beauty” within tiny, four-walled spaces.

    “We aim to make beautiful games with intuitive gameplay,” says Inblue Games. Following the success of their previous title, Golden Arrow, Scenic looks set to be a masterclass in “cosy-logic.”

    Scenic is currently available to wishlist on Steam. If you’re looking for a digital retreat that challenges your brain without raising your blood pressure, this is definitely one to keep on your radar.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/IOd41

    #InblueGames #Scenic #pixelart #escaperoom #hiddensecrets #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • CODEX MORTIS: The AI-Made Game the Internet Told You to Hate

    CODEX MORTIS: The AI-Made Game the Internet Told You to Hate

    If you’ve been anywhere near Steam or gaming Reddit lately, you’ve likely seen the firestorm. Developed by solo dev Grolaf (under the publisher Crunchfest), CODEX MORTIS isn’t just another indie bullet hell. It’s a necromantic survival game with a massive asterisk: the developer claims it is 100% AI-generated.

    From every line of TypeScript code to the gothic sprites and the eerie background music, Grolaf says the entire project was “vibe-coded” into existence using LLMs like Claude and ChatGPT in just three months.

    Why the Internet is Fuming

    In a year where industry layoffs are still a raw nerve and “AI slop” has become the ultimate gaming insult, CODEX MORTIS landed like a grenade. The backlash was instantaneous:

    The “Asset Flip” Argument: Critics on Steam and Reddit have branded it a glorified tech demo, calling it a “slippery slope” toward a future where storefronts are flooded with soulless, prompt-engineered clones.

    The Authenticity Debate: Some devs have even accused Grolaf of “not being AI enough,” claiming a total novice couldn’t have handled the complex architectural logic (built on bitECS and Electron) without significant human intervention.

    The “Slop” Label: PC Gamer famously questioned its honour as a milestone for “slop everywhere,” sparking a wider debate on whether a game made without “the human touch” can ever truly have a soul.

    The Plot Twist: People are Actually Playing It

    Here’s the part the “antis” don’t want to hear: It’s working.

    Despite the “Mixed” reviews and the vitriol in the comment sections, the numbers tell a different story. During its demo phase, players stayed for an average of 71 minutes—over four times the industry average for indie demos.

    Streaming giant Asmongold even weighed in, calling the gameplay “pretty good” and predicting that AI-developed games are an inevitability that will eventually “do well.” It turns out that when you’re busy dodging waves of undead and theory-crafting synergies between five schools of dark magic, you care a lot less about who—or what—wrote the code.

    Innovation or Infection?

    Grolaf describes the process as giving a developer an “exoskeleton.” By using AI to handle the “mental exhaustion” of engine-less development, a solo creator was able to ship a fully playable, systems-driven game in a fraction of the usual time.

    Whether CODEX MORTIS is a landmark achievement or a warning sign remains to be seen. But as it prepares for its Early Access launch on March 26, 2026, one thing is certain: the era of “Vibe-Coding” is no longer a sci-fi concept. It’s on your wishlist.

    What do you think? Is CODEX MORTIS a creative breakthrough for solo devs, or is it the beginning of the end for “hand-crafted” gaming?

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/jDh6R

    #CRUNCHFEST #GROLAF #CODEXMORTIS #AIdevelopedgame #AI #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Blasting Into the Future: Super Alloy Crush Hits Steam Early Access This April

    Blasting Into the Future: Super Alloy Crush Hits Steam Early Access This April

    If you grew up with a controller in your hand and a blue robot on your screen, you’ll want to pay attention. Indie developer Alloy Mushroom has officially announced that their high-octane, Mega Man-inspired 2D roguelike brawler, Super Alloy Crush, is set to launch into Steam Early Access on April 8, 2026.

    Following a successful demo period earlier this year, the studio is ready to let players dive back into the frantic world of cosmic treasure hunting.

    What is Super Alloy Crush?

    Imagine the tight platforming and boss-slaying DNA of Mega Man X fused with the “just one more run” addiction of a modern roguelike. Set aboard the spaceship Ranger, you take control of two distinct Cosmic Hunters—Muu and Kelly—as they battle across planets in search of the ultimate treasure on Planet AE-38.

    Unlike its predecessor, Super Alloy Ranger, this latest entry shifts the focus toward a “head-on” combat system. Say goodbye to frustrating contact damage and hello to fluid, high-speed combos.

    The Cosmic Hunters

    Each character offers a completely different way to play:

    Muu (Unit-02): A close-combat specialist who uses energy claws to launch enemies into the air for devastating aerial juggles.

    Kelly: A tactical human warrior who favours ranged firearms and martial arts, perfect for those who like to control the battlefield from a distance.

    Key Features at Launch

    Alloy Mushroom isn’t holding back for the Early Access release. Players can expect:

    3 Full Story Chapters: Uncover the mysteries of the treasure planet.

    7 Major Bosses: Massive, screen-filling entities with their own “Overdrive” attacks.

    100+ Combat Skills: Use Chips and Tech Arts to customise your build—think infinite energy or multiple air-jumps.

    Local Co-op: Grab a friend and chain together explosive combo attacks.

    Multiple Game Modes: Including Story Mode, Battle Rush (the pure roguelike experience), and the Ultimate Challenge.

    Roadmap & Pricing

    The game will launch at $11.99 USD, but early birds can snag a 10% discount during the first two weeks. Alloy Mushroom has already promised at least four major free updates during the Early Access period, which will include new characters, the conclusion of the story, and even more “ghost” enemy types.

    “We believe working side-by-side with players is the best way to create an outstanding game,” says the developer. “Early Access lets us refine this high-energy experience with real feedback.”

    Super Alloy Crush looks like a love letter to 16-bit action fans, wrapped in a modern, replayable package. Be sure to wishlist it on Steam now so you’re ready for the April 8th drop!

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/95Hrz

    #AlloyMushroom #SteamEarlyAccess #roguelike #brawler #SuperAlloyCrush #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames