TECHMASH

Tag: #Roguelike

  • Henshin! Solo-Dev Gem ‘Match Morphosis’ Drops Massive Demo Update for Steam Cyberpunk Fest

    Henshin! Solo-Dev Gem ‘Match Morphosis’ Drops Massive Demo Update for Steam Cyberpunk Fest

    If you love indie games that defy genres, bold aesthetics, and impressive solo-developer feats, put this on your radar immediately.

    Starting today, Steam is hosting its first-ever Cyberpunk Fest, celebrating high-tech, low-life games across the platform. Joining the lineup is Match Morphosis: Match-3 Roguelike—a unique fusion of match-3 mechanics, deckbuilding strategy, and tokusatsu (think Kamen Rider) flavour.

    To celebrate the event, solo developer Ernes has released the biggest update yet to the game’s free public demo, complete with fresh key art and sleek new store assets.

    Here is why this indie title deserves a spot on your Steam Wishlist right now.

    What is Match Morphosis?

    At its core, Match Morphosis takes the addicting, fast-paced puzzle loops of classic match-3 games and fuses them with the deep, tactical decisions of a roguelike deckbuilder.

    Set in a vibrant, neon-drenched cyberpunk world, you play as a hero transforming (henshin!) to battle cybernetic threats. Instead of just swapping tiles for points, your matches trigger powerful abilities, charge up equipment, and activate deck-based combat combos.

    Built from Scratch: A True Solo Technical Marvel

    What makes Match Morphosis even more impressive behind the scenes is how it was built.

    Rather than relying on mainstream commercial engines like Unity or Unreal, developer Ernes built the game using a fully custom C game engine. Creating a custom engine in C for a feature-rich roguelike deckbuilder is no small feat—it allows for incredibly lightweight performance, pixel-perfect precision, and absolute control over the game’s snappy mechanics.

    What’s New in the Steam Cyberpunk Fest Demo?

    If you haven’t tried the free demo yet—or if it’s been a while since your last run—now is the ideal time to jump back in. The latest update marks the most substantial demo upgrade since launch, featuring:

    • Rebalanced Gameplay & Mechanics: Refined match-3 combat loops and streamlined deckbuilding options.
    • Fresh Visuals: A complete overhaul of key art and store graphics to match the game’s bold, high-octane aesthetic.
    • Performance Enhancements: Smooth-as-silk updates driven by the game’s custom C engine.

    Check Out the Free Demo Today

    Whether you’re a fan of Slay the Spire, Puzzle Quest, or old-school Saturday morning hero shows, Match Morphosis offers a fresh take on tactical puzzling.

    Head over to Steam during Steam Cyberpunk Fest to download the free demo, test out your transformation powers, and don’t forget to hit that Wishlist button to support solo indie dev!

    Find out more here

    #MatchMorphosis #SteamCyberpunkFest #IndieDev #GameDev #Roguelike #Match3 #KamenRider #TechMash #IndieGame #PCGaming

  • Catch the Next Flight: Tales & Tactics Drops Massive ‘World Tour’ DLC and Free Base Update!

    Catch the Next Flight: Tales & Tactics Drops Massive ‘World Tour’ DLC and Free Base Update!

    Calling all tabletop tacticians and autobattler fanatics! If you’ve been looking for a reason to re-roll your rosters, refine your synergies, and dive back into one of the slickest strategy games around, your call has officially arrived.

    Yogscast Games and developer Table 9 Studio have officially launched the highly anticipated Set 2: World Tour DLC alongside a massive, game-changing free base update for their acclaimed tabletop roguelike autobattler, Tales & Tactics.

    Whether you’re a seasoned Grand Champion of the Tournament or a fresh contender taking your first steps across the grid, it’s time to pack your bags—the Grand Tournament is expanding across the globe.

    What’s New in the Set 2: World Tour DLC?

    The World Tour DLC opens up an entire world of new tactical depth, introducing fresh factions, exotic mechanics, and brand-new units that will completely flip your favourite strategies on their head.

    Here is what you can expect when you step onto the international stage:

    • Brand-New Factions & Archetypes: Discover unique origins and traits inspired by legendary realms around the world. Adapt your squad composition with new synergy bonuses that reward clever positioning and creative drafting.
    • Fresh Champions to Recruit: Expand your bench with a diverse cast of new playable units, each equipped with distinct abilities, custom animations, and game-winning ultimates.
    • Global Arenas: Battle it out across beautiful, newly designed tabletop boards reflecting the sights, colours, and atmospheres of the World Tour.
    • New Equipment & Artefacts: Tailor your carry units with powerful new gear combinations designed to turn defeat into decisive victory.

    Massive Free Update for All Players

    Don’t worry if you’re sticking to the base game for now—Table 9 Studio hasn’t forgotten about you! Accompanying the DLC release is a huge free base game update packed with quality-of-life improvements, rebalancing, and content updates designed for every player.

    Highlights of the base update include:

    • Overhauled Balance: Reworked unit costs, adjusted trait thresholds, and rebalanced items ensure the meta stays fresh, fluid, and competitive.
    • Refined Roguelike Progression: Smoother node choices, tweaked random events, and enhanced risk-versus-reward decisions throughout your tournament runs.
    • UI & QoL Enhancements: A cleaner interface, clearer combat readouts, and streamlined unit management make planning your turn faster and more intuitive than ever.

    Why You Should Dive Back In

    Tales & Tactics has earned a loyal following by perfectly marrying the deep, addictive squad-building of an autobattler with the unpredictable, strategy-focused run structure of a roguelike RPG. With the arrival of Set 2, the team has taken feedback directly from the community to deliver richer strategic choices, wilder synergy combos, and endless replayability.

    It’s time to rethink your opening drafts, experiment with bizarre new compositions, and see if you have what it takes to dominate the global stage.

    Ready to jump in? The Set 2: World Tour DLC and free base update for Tales & Tactics are live now on Steam! Grab your dice, rally your champions, and we’ll see you in the arena.

    Find out more here

    #TalesAndTactics #YogscastGames #Table9Studio #Autobattler #Roguelike #IndieGames #PCGaming #GamingNews #TechMash #TabletopGaming

  • Lock, Load, and Wall-Run: The ‘Cyber Rail’ Demo Is Here to Bring High-Octane Cyberpunk Western Chaos

    Lock, Load, and Wall-Run: The ‘Cyber Rail’ Demo Is Here to Bring High-Octane Cyberpunk Western Chaos

    Gear up, gamers! If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if you fused the wild, bullet-riddled action of a classic Western with high-speed cyberpunk parkour, indie developer Torn Ace Studios has the answer. The team has officially dropped the first playable demo for their highly anticipated roguelike FPS, Cyber Rail, on Steam!

    It’s time to step into the steel boots of a cybernetic robot cowboy and take back the tracks from ruthless gangs of futuristic bandits.

    Here is everything you need to know about one of the most thrilling indie demos to hit Steam.

    Saddle Up, Cyber Cowboy

    In Cyber Rail, peace isn’t an option when high-tech train rustlers are involved. Players are thrust into a series of frantic, high-stakes stagecoach and flying train shootouts. As an armed-to-the-teeth robot cowboy, your goal is simple: clear out the enemy bandits car-by-car, collect powerful gear, build game-breaking synergies, and survive the journey.

    Because it’s built as a roguelike FPS, no two runs feel identical. Every shootout forces you to adapt on the fly, unlocking devastating weapon combinations and perks that turn your metal lawman into an unstoppable force of nature.

    High-Speed Parkour Meets Bullet-Hell Gunplay

    What really sets Cyber Rail apart from standard shooters is its electrifying mobility system. Firefights aren’t just about taking cover behind a wooden crate—they’re about momentum.

    To survive the relentless hail of gunfire, players can master a fluid parkour system that includes:

    • Grappling & Swinging: Hook onto environments or enemies to sling yourself across massive gaps or directly into combat.
    • Sliding & Wall-Running: Mantle, slide, and wall-run across speeding train cars to outmanoeuvre surrounding bandit mobs.
    • Super Jumps & Synergies: Cancel grapples for momentum boosts, combine movement techs, and keep moving to stay alive.

    Combine these lightning-fast traversal mechanics with an arsenal of futuristic firearms—from transforming weaponry to boomerang-style combat tools—and you’ve got a recipe for pure, adrenaline-pumping gameplay.

    Try the Free Demo on Steam Today!

    Torn Ace Studios has delivered an incredible first taste of what Cyber Rail has to offer. Whether you’re a fan of roguelikes, fast-paced boomershooters, or just love the idea of being a cyber-samurai-meets-gunslinger on a speeding diesel train, this is a demo you don’t want to miss.

    Head over to Steam, search for Cyber Rail, and download the free demo now to jump straight into the action. Don’t forget to add the full game to your Wishlist to support the developers!

    Are you ready to claim the rails?

    Find out more here

    #CyberRail #TornAceStudios #IndieGame #SteamDemo #FPSGames #Roguelike #Cyberpunk #GamingNews #TechMash #PCGaming

  • Plug In to NET.CRAWL: The Grid-Building Puzzle Roguelike Hits 1.0 on Steam!

    Plug In to NET.CRAWL: The Grid-Building Puzzle Roguelike Hits 1.0 on Steam!

    If you’re a fan of deck-builders, grid-based tactics, or deep strategic puzzles, it’s time to sync your neural link and dive deep into cyberspace. NET.CRAWL, the innovative grid-building puzzle roguelike from three-person indie team Everyone is Solid, has officially left Early Access and booted up its 1.0 full launch on Steam!

    Blending elements of tactical spatial movement, deck-building progression, and retro-futuristic hacker aesthetic—part Deus Ex hacking mini-game, part synthwave dreamscape—NET.CRAWL delivers one of the freshest takes on the roguelike genre in recent memory.

    Here is everything you need to know about this stylish indie hit and why it deserves a spot in your Steam library.

    What is NET.CRAWL?

    In NET.CRAWL, you play as a sentient White Rabbit trapped inside an unfriendly, post-human digital world. Your goal? Jack into dynamic cyber arenas, outsmart hostile firewall entities, and crawl your way back out with precious system loot.

    Unlike traditional deck-builders where you play cards straight from a hand, NET.CRAWL turns card play into spatial navigation across a hexagonal grid. You don’t just build a deck—you build the level itself. Between runs and rounds, you draft hexagonal nodes to construct the digital playfield. As you move your White Rabbit onto a hex node, it activates that node’s specific effect.

    Key Features to Hack Into

    • Hex-Grid Node Drafting: Levels are dynamically assembled from two grids (Data and Toolbox) that you draft as you progress. Every move you make triggers a chain reaction.
    • Color-Coded Tactical Depth:
      • Blue Nodes: Yield Data, your core operational resource.
      • Yellow Nodes: Provide Credits to fund upgrades.
      • Green Nodes: Your personal toolbox, packed with rule-bending utilities and defensive shields.
      • Red Nodes: Hostile threats that drop dangerous obstacles on the board.
      • Purple Cores: The ultimate challenge—powerful mini-bosses with game-bending abilities and custom win conditions.
    • Satisfying Combos & Fast-Paced Runs: Runs are snappy, focused, and free of tedious filler. You can pull off wild, screen-clearing synergies in just a few strategic turns.
    • High Replay Value: With dozens of unique boss encounters, system grids, and perk aspects to unlock, no two dives into cyberspace ever play out the same way.
    • Style to Spare: Packed with punchy synth audio, clean UI design, and vibrant neon visuals, the game oozes cyber-cool atmosphere from the second you press Start.

    Crafted by a Mighty Indie Trio

    NET.CRAWL is the passion project of Everyone is Solid, a tiny three-person development team. After iterating through community playtests and an early access period, the team has delivered a polished, incredibly tight puzzle-roguelike experience that avoids decision fatigue while offering massive strategic depth.

    Priced accessibly and boasting stellar user reception on Steam, NET.CRAWL is a masterclass in smart indie game design.

    Ready to Jack In?

    Whether you’re looking for short, rewarding gaming sessions or a deep tactical puzzle to obsess over, NET.CRAWL is ready for deployment.

    Head over to Steam today to pick up NET.CRAWL version 1.0 and see how far down the cyberspace rabbit hole you can go!

    Find out more here

    #NETCRAWL #IndieGames #SteamLaunch #Roguelike #PuzzleGame #Deckbuilder #EveryoneIsSolid #PCGaming #TechMash #GamingNews

  • Over-the-Top 2.5D Beat ‘Em Up Mexican Ninja Slashes Onto PC & Consoles August 20

    Over-the-Top 2.5D Beat ‘Em Up Mexican Ninja Slashes Onto PC & Consoles August 20

    Get ready for high-octane violence, sharp blades, and a vibrant neon aesthetic: Amber Studio has officially confirmed that Mexican Ninja will launch on August 20.

    The fast-paced, gloriously over-the-top 2.5D roguelike beat ’em up is heading to PC (via Steam), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. If you are a fan of classic side-scrolling brawl mechanics infused with modern roguelike elements, this title deserves a spot on your wishlist.

    Welcome to the Neon Streets of Nuevo Tokyo

    Mexican Ninja drops players straight into the dystopian chaos of Nuevo Tokyo, a sprawling cyberpunk city overrun by the ruthless syndicate known as the Narkuzas.

    As the titular Mexican Ninja, your mission is simple yet brutal: take back the streets, spark a city-wide uprising, and slice through endless waves of criminal enforcers. Combining traditional ninja agility with fiery cultural swagger, the game delivers an absurdly stylish power fantasy where speed and precision are mandatory for survival.

    Fast-Paced Roguelike Action

    Beyond its striking visual presentation, Mexican Ninja places heavy emphasis on replayability and kinetic combat:

    • 2.5D Beat ‘Em Up Combat: Chain together lethal sword combos, wall-jumps, and special abilities as you sweep through horizontal districts.
    • Roguelike Progression: Expect procedural run variety, temporary power-ups, and persistent upgrades that encourage players to push further with every attempt.
    • Over-the-Top Flair: High-energy combat encounters packed with visceral finisher moves, dynamic environmental hazards, and unapologetic attitude.

    Release Overview

    FeatureDetails
    DeveloperAmber Studio
    Release DateAugust 20
    Genre2.5D Roguelike Beat ‘Em Up
    PlatformsPC (Steam), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
    SettingNuevo Tokyo

    Whether you’re looking for an intense new roguelike challenge or just want to tear through syndicate goons with style, Mexican Ninja promises an adrenaline-fueled brawl when it drops later this month.

    Find out more here

    #MexicanNinja #AmberStudio #GamingNews #IndieGames #BeatEmUp #Roguelike #Steam #PS5 #XboxSeriesX #TechMash

  • Blast Off & Drift into Battle: Hot Wheels Meets Space Combat in Rebels of the Solar Speedway!

    Blast Off & Drift into Battle: Hot Wheels Meets Space Combat in Rebels of the Solar Speedway!

    If you love the high-octane toy-car nostalgia of Hot Wheels, the brain-bending tactical depth of turn-based combat, and the infinite replayability of a roguelike, we’ve got some stellar news for you.

    Independent Spanish-Brazilian studio RetroReactor has officially unveiled their ambitious new project: Rebels of the Solar Speedway!

    Expected to launch in 2027 on PC via Steam, this unique indie title is setting out to mash up genres in a way we haven’t quite seen before—and it’s already generating serious buzz.

    What is Rebels of the Solar Speedway?

    Imagine custom-building a sci-fi speedster, dropping into a zero-g cosmic arena, and outmanoeuvring rival pilots—not through split-second reaction times, but through clever, turn-based tactical plays.

    Rebels of the Solar Speedway turns the traditional racing genre on its head. Instead of relying purely on twitch reflexes, players will plan their lines, drift through asteroid belts, line up weapon attacks, and unleash devastating combat abilities turn by turn.

    Key features to look forward to include:

    • Hot-Wheels Inspired Sci-Fi Aesthetics: Vibrant, neon-drenched tracks suspended in deep space, featuring wild loops, jump pads, and lethal hazards.
    • Turn-Based Tactical Racing: Strategy is key. Outsmart enemy racers by predicting their movements, managing your heat/energy, and setting up game-winning combat combos.
    • Roguelike Progression: No two runs will be the same. Earn upgrades, unlock futuristic vehicle parts, draft new abilities, and adapt your strategy to dynamic galaxy maps.

    Check Out the Trailer & Wishlist on Steam

    RetroReactor has dropped an energetic debut trailer showcasing the game’s distinct art style, explosive visual effects, and tactical gameplay loop.

    If you want to support this indie gem early, head over to Steam right now to add Rebels of the Solar Speedway to your Wishlist—it helps the developers massively during development!

    How to Join the Closed Beta

    Can’t wait until 2027 to get behind the wheel? You might not have to wait long!

    RetroReactor has announced that Closed Beta testing will be kicking off in the coming weeks. The team is actively looking for passionate gamers to test early builds, balance mechanics, and provide crucial feedback.

    To throw your helmet into the ring:

    1. Join the official RetroReactor Discord server.
    2. Keep an eye on the announcement channels for closed beta sign-up links.
    3. Get ready to take the Solar Speedway for a test drive!

    Stay tuned to TechMash for more indie gaming updates, dev interviews, and beta news as Rebels of the Solar Speedway accelerates toward release!

    Find out more here

    #RebelsOfTheSolarSpeedway #RetroReactor #IndieGames #Steam #GamingNews #PCGaming #HotWheels #TurnBased #Roguelike #SpaceRacer #GamingCommunity #TechMash

  • Unleash Tactical Chaos: Why Crown Control is the Ultimate Co-Op Deckbuilder You Need on Your Radar

    Unleash Tactical Chaos: Why Crown Control is the Ultimate Co-Op Deckbuilder You Need on Your Radar

    If you love deep tactical strategy, rogue-lite replayability, and rich card-battling mechanics, get ready to add a new title to your wishlist. Meet Crown Control—an ambitious tactical RPG roguelike deckbuilder where you and up to three friends set out on a high-stakes quest to overthrow a ruthless tyrant king.

    Whether you’re a hardcore strategist who loves planning ten moves ahead or a casual gamer who enjoys chaotic co-op gaming sessions, Crown Control brings a fresh isometric twist to the deckbuilding genre.

    A True Tactical RPG Meets Deckbuilding

    At its core, Crown Control turns classic grid-based, turn-based tactics into a fast-paced card battler. But this isn’t just about playing high-damage cards—it’s about mastering the battlefield itself.

    In isometric turn-based combat, position is everything. The cards you draw do far more than simple attacks, defence, or healing spells. You can:

    • Summon Loyal Allies: Call forth minions to draw enemy fire and control the tide of battle.
    • Litter the Field with Traps: Outsmart aggressive foes by luring them into deadly choke points.
    • Alter the Terrain: Shift the battlefield on the fly to gain line-of-sight advantages or block enemy paths completely.

    Every battle is a tactical puzzle where environmental awareness is just as important as the cards in your hand.

    21 Unique Classes & Endlessly Deep Progression

    With a staggering roster of 21 playable classes, Crown Control guarantees no two runs ever feel the same.

    Whether you prefer playing as a heavy tank holding the front line, a battlefield-controlling wizard, an elusive trapper, or a dedicated support healer, there’s a playstyle for everyone. As you level up during your runs, you’ll unlock powerful synergies, build customised decks, and discover game-breaking combinations to take down increasingly formidable foes.

    Conquer the Kingdom Solo or in 4-Player Co-Op

    While you can brave the king’s forces completely solo, Crown Control shines as an online co-op experience. Supporting up to 4 players in online co-op, teamwork becomes your greatest weapon. Combine card abilities across different classes, set up massive elemental or positional combos, and save your teammates from dire situations.

    Because of its roguelike structure, every run features randomised encounters, shifting tactical challenges, and unpredictable loot. Win or lose, each attempt teaches you more about the kingdom and brings you one step closer to dethroning the king.

    Why You Should Keep An Eye On Crown Control

    • Deep Co-Op Strategy: Team up with up to 3 friends online for coordinated grid-based battles.
    • Massive Variety: 21 distinct classes offer endless deckbuilding possibilities.
    • Dynamic Battlefields: Manipulate terrain, spawn summons, and lay traps in tactical isometric combat.
    • High Replayability: Classic roguelike elements ensure fresh challenges on every run.

    Will you and your party have what it takes to break the king’s hold over the realm? Gear up, build your deck, and prepare for battle!

    Find out more here

    #CrownControl #IndieDev #IndieGame #GamingNews #RPG #Roguelike #Deckbuilder #TacticalRPG #CoOpGaming #PCGaming #TechMash #TurnBasedStrategy

  • Ready Your Blades! Medieval Hack-and-Slash ‘Tears of Metal’ Launches Today in Early Access & PC Game Pass

    Ready Your Blades! Medieval Hack-and-Slash ‘Tears of Metal’ Launches Today in Early Access & PC Game Pass

    If you loved the fast-paced, visceral combat of Bloodroots, get ready for Paper Cult’s next big action hit!

    Developer Paper Cult has officially launched Tears of Metal, a brand-new medieval hack-and-slash roguelike, into Early Access today. Whether you’re looking to slash through hordes solo or team up with friends in co-op, this action-packed title is ready to deliver relentless, blood-soaked battles.

    Here is everything you need to know about the launch, pricing, and game features!

    Launch Details & Availability

    Tears of Metal is available starting today across major PC platforms:

    • Steam: Available in Early Access for $24.99 USD — plus a 10% launch discount for early adopters!
    • Microsoft Store: Available via PC Game Pass from day one!

    What is Tears of Metal?

    Set on a troubled, war-torn island, Tears of Metal combines the thrill of large-scale hack-and-slash combat with deep roguelike progression. Your goal? Take back your island from invading forces, one brutal clash at a time.

    Key Features:

    • Build Your Battalion: You don’t have to fight alone. Recruit and lead soldiers to swell your ranks and turn the tide of massive battles.
    • Devastating Upgrades & Abilities: Combine powerful offensive skill trees, game-changing upgrades, and explosive abilities to tailor your playstyle and obliterate hordes of enemies.
    • Solo or Co-op Chaos: Take on the campaign by yourself or rally your friends in online co-op for tactical, high-octane team combat.
    • Roguelike Replayability: Every run offers fresh challenges, dynamic battlefields, and new opportunities to power up your army and reclaim lost territory.

    Why You Should Check It Out

    Paper Cult proved their mastery of tight, satisfying action combat with Bloodroots, and Tears of Metal expands that vision into grand-scale battalion warfare. With the option to jump in via Steam with a launch discount or stream/download directly through PC Game Pass, there’s never been a better time to grab your broadsword and head into battle.

    Will you conquer the island and restore peace to your homeland, or fall to the invasion? Grab your squad and jump into Tears of Metal today!

    Find out more here

    #TearsOfMetal #PaperCult #Bloodroots #IndieGames #GamingNews #Steam #PCGamePass #Roguelike #HackAndSlash #TechMash #PCGaming

  • 100,000 Wishlists in 4 Days! Roguelike Autobattler ‘Guildrun’ Takes Steam by Storm

    100,000 Wishlists in 4 Days! Roguelike Autobattler ‘Guildrun’ Takes Steam by Storm

    If you’ve popped onto Steam over the past few days, you’ve likely seen a new title dominating the trending charts. Indie developer Leyline has officially announced that their upcoming roguelike autobattler, Guildrun, has crossed a massive milestone: over 100,000 Steam wishlists in under four days since its reveal!

    For an indie game, hitting six figures in wishlists usually takes months of promotion, showcase appearances, and word-of-mouth. Guildrun managed to pull it off in less than a week, proving that PC gamers are hungry for a fresh, deeply strategic twist on the autobattler genre.

    The Demo Is Taking Over Steam

    It’s not just hype and trailer views driving the excitement—players are already sinking hours into the game.

    During its opening weekend, Guildrun’s public demo hit an impressive peak of over 10,000 concurrent players, quickly propelling it to the #1 trending demo on Steam.

    Even better? Players are loving what they’re playing. The demo currently boasts a stellar 95% “Very Positive” user rating, with early feedback praising its satisfying tactical depth, rogue-lite replayability, and polished presentation.

    What Is Guildrun?

    For the uninitiated, Guildrun combines the quick-thinking party building of classic roguelikes with the automated, high-stakes tactical combat of autobattlers.

    Players recruit, gear up, and position a party of heroes to take on increasingly difficult encounters. Because the battles run automatically based on your preparation and synergy choices, every run tests your ability to adapt, optimise builds, and outsmart the AI before the fight even begins.

    When Can You Play the Full Game?

    If you missed out on the initial rush, don’t worry—the public demo is available now on Steam, so you can jump in and test your tactical skills right away.

    As for the full release, Leyline is aiming for a 2027 release on Steam, giving the studio plenty of time to build upon the demo’s explosive success, incorporate community feedback, and expand the game with even more heroes, items, and encounters.

    If you haven’t already, head over to Steam, try the demo, and smash that Wishlist button to support the devs!

    Find out more here

    #Guildrun #Leyline #IndieGames #Steam #PCGaming #GamingNews #Autobattler #Roguelike #TechMash

  • Escape the Mansion from Your Couch: Dead Estate Slams Onto PS5 and Nintendo Switch

    Escape the Mansion from Your Couch: Dead Estate Slams Onto PS5 and Nintendo Switch

    If you’ve been itching for a gory, high-octane indie treat to play on the move or from the comfort of your living room, your prayers to the horror gods have officially been answered. Dead Estate, the cult-hit horror-themed action roguelike developed by Milkbar Lads and published by 2 Left Thumbs, has officially made its grand debut on PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch!

    Originally launched on PC back in 2021 where it amassed a fiercely loyal, “Very Positive” following, this delightfully chunky, fast-paced top-down shooter is ready to tear up your console storage.

    What is Dead Estate?

    Imagine a love letter to classic 90s horror, smashed together with the tight, frenetic twin-stick shooting of Enter the Gungeon and wrapped in stunning, fluid pixel art. That is Dead Estate.

    Players are trapped in a massive, shifting, monster-filled mansion. Your only goal? Ascend the floors, hoard a ridiculous arsenal of weaponry, and try desperately not to get ripped to shreds by the local undead populace.

    But there’s a catch: if you take too long exploring a floor, you’ll be relentlessly hunted by Chunks—a massive, terrifying stalker enemy who gives off heavy Resident Evil Nemesis vibes. You can either run for your life or pump enough lead into him to force a temporary retreat and claim a hefty cash reward.

    Packed with the Definitive Content

    The best part about this console launch? Switch and PS5 players are getting the complete package right out of the gate. The ports include all five of the massive major content updates released during the game’s PC lifecycle, up to the definitive “Goodnight” update.

    Here is a quick look at what you’re getting yourself into:

    • 10 Playable Characters: From Jeff the default grunt to Cordelia the witch and Fuji the boxer, every character completely alters your playstyle, movement speed, and starting stats.
    • Insane Variety: Over 150 weapons and 300 passive items to create absolutely broken, god-tier synergies.
    • The “Assignment Anya” Campaign: A separate, survival-horror-inspired campaign that serves as a direct, brilliant nod to Resident Evil 4’s Assignment Ada.
    • Console-Specific Enhancements: Deeply polished NewGame+ modes, unlockable challenges, and full couch-to-toilet portability on the Nintendo Switch (with built-in compatibility for next-gen hardware down the line).

    The Verdict: A Must-Play for Roguelike Fans

    What makes Dead Estate special is how rewarding it feels. While it offers plenty of gruelling difficulty modifiers and “Blessing & Curse” runs for hardcore genre purists, it also allows casual players to stumble into incredibly fun, overpowered item combinations that let you utterly eviscerate late-game rooms.

    The isometric rooms are compact, forcing you into tense, close-quarters bullet hells. Combined with a killer, atmospheric synth soundtrack and unmatched character design, it’s the ultimate pick-up-and-play title for your console library.

    Dead Estate is available right now on the PlayStation Store and Nintendo eShop for $14.99 / £11.99. Go grab your weapon of choice, keep an eye out for Chunks, and see if you can survive the night!

    Find out more here

    #DeadEstate #IndieGames #PS5 #NintendoSwitch #Roguelike #HorrorGaming #GamingNews #TechMash #MilkbarLads #TwinStickShooter

  • High Stakes, Dark Vibes: DEAD SPIN is the Horror Slot-Machine Deckbuilder of Your Nightmares

    High Stakes, Dark Vibes: DEAD SPIN is the Horror Slot-Machine Deckbuilder of Your Nightmares

    Move over, traditional card battlers. There is a new, twisted player entering the roguelike deckbuilding arena, and it wants you to gamble with your literal life.

    Independent developer Strong Monkey Games has officially revealed DEAD SPIN, a deeply unsettling horror roguelike deckbuilder that swaps out the standard sword-and-sorcery decks for something far more addictive—and deadly. The game is heading to PC via Steam, and the best part? You don’t have to wait to see if luck is on your side, because an open Steam Playtest is live right now!

    Check out the official announcement trailer below to see the madness in action:

    Step Inside the Abandoned Casino

    DEAD SPIN drops you into a grimy, abandoned casino where you are forced into high-stakes slot-machine duels against a cast of lunatic gamblers and masked captors. This isn’t just about pulling a lever and hoping for three cherries; it’s a tactical psychological battle where chance meets deep strategic planning.

    To survive, you’ll need to master the art of the spin. Instead of drafting a traditional deck of cards, you shape your luck by building out a deck of symbols, chips, and coins.

    Cheat the Odds or Face the Punishment

    The game brilliantly blends roguelike meta-progression with intense risk-management strategy. Here is what you can expect when you sit down at the cabinet:

    • Massive Synergy Scaling: With over 250 collectable items at launch—including 100+ special symbols, 50+ special chips, and consumable trinkets—you can stack effects, trigger massive score multipliers, and manipulate the rules to bend the odds in your favour.
    • Eclectic, Dangerous Bosses: Every run pits you against more than eight unique opponents. Each boss boasts their own distinct playstyle, custom decks, and dirty tricks, forcing you to completely pivot your strategy based on whatever random loot you uncover.
    • The Retro Horror Aesthetic: DEAD SPIN looks like a cursed VHS tape unearthed from the late ’90s or early ’00s. Its grimy, low-fi presentation is dripping with dark, grotesque humour and an oppressive atmosphere that turns every bad spin into a heart-pounding moment of dread.
    • Endless Mode: Think your build is completely broken and unstoppable? Test it against relentless, scaling challenges long after you finish the main progression.

    Join the Open Steam Playtest Right Now!

    If you love the tense strategy of Balatro or Luck be a Landlord, but wish they had the sinister, mind-bending atmosphere of Inscryption, DEAD SPIN is a must-play.

    There are no keys required and no waitlists. Simply head over to the official DEAD SPIN Steam Page, hit “Join the Playtest,” and see if you have what it takes to outscore your captors and spin for your freedom.

    DEAD SPIN is slated for a full release on PC via Steam in late 2026. Make sure to add it to your Wishlist to support the developers!

    Find out more here

    #DeadSpin #StrongMonkeyGames #HorrorGames #Roguelike #Deckbuilder #IndieGames #SteamPlaytest #GamingNews #PCGaming #TechMash

  • Kill the Dealer: Bloodthief Dev Announces Grimdark Blackjack Roguelike ‘Blackout Jack’

    Kill the Dealer: Bloodthief Dev Announces Grimdark Blackjack Roguelike ‘Blackout Jack’

    If you spent 2025 pulling off high-speed, hyper-violent vampire parkour in the overwhelmingly positive boomer-slasher Bloodthief, solo developer Blargis is about to hand you a completely different kind of deck. But don’t expect a relaxing night at the casino.

    Blargis has officially pulled back the curtain on Blackout Jack, an upcoming story-driven, grimdark blackjack roguelike heading to PC via Steam. And if you’re eager to try your luck, you won’t have to wait long: the game’s first Steam playtest is officially launching on July 15.

    The House Always Wins… Until You Kill the Dealer

    Blackout Jack twists the familiar, high-stakes math of classic blackjack into a tense, tactical struggle for survival. Set in the rain-slicked, crooked alleys of a seedy medieval city, this isn’t just a game about beating the house—it’s a game where the house wants to take your literal mortality.

    The core loop places you at a table against a sinister, death-dealing dealer. Your ultimate, secret objective? Murder him. To do that, you’ll need to survive card rounds by building insane combos and powerful deck synergies. You aren’t just hitting or standing; you’ll be manipulating the odds using:

    • Card-altering elixirs and boons to bend the rules.
    • Life-paid chips and multipliers to maximise your damage.
    • Strange relics were purchased from the local hostess using blood gems.

    “I wanted to create an experience that blended a strong sense of mystery and narrative with the kind of gameplay where numbers keep going up and every run feels like it can spiral into something bigger.” — Developer Blargis

    Explore a City Built on Secrets

    What makes Blackout Jack particularly intriguing is that the game doesn’t end at the edge of the card table. When you step away from the dealer, you’ll be able to roam the grim midnight streets of the city.

    The urban underbelly is populated by unscrupulous characters, shady denizens, and fellow conspirators. By exploring, you can uncover hidden tools like lockpicks and poisons, pick up cryptic lore, and buy vital items to stack the deck in your favour for your next run.

    Naturally, death is a heavy feature in this grimdark world. But in true roguelike fashion, a gruesome game over isn’t the end. While death resets the night, you keep essential knowledge. Every failed run brings you one step closer to decoding the dark conspiracy binding the city together and permanently forcing the dealer to cash out.

    Join the Playtest on July 15

    If you love the psychological tension of Inscryption mixed with the addictive, rule-breaking card math of Balatro, Blackout Jack looks like it’s going to be a must-play.

    Head over to the official Blackout Jack Steam Page right now to hit that wishlist button, and keep your eyes peeled for the playtest drop on July 15!

    Find out more here

    #IndieGames #BlackoutJack #GamerNews #Roguelike #Deckbuilder #SteamGames #PCGaming #Grimdark #Bloodthief #Blargis