TECHMASH

Tag: #Scifi

  • The Midnight Walk now on Nintendo Switch

    The Midnight Walk now on Nintendo Switch

    Whether you’re a fan of eerie stop-motion classics like The Nightmare Before Christmas or you spent your childhood staring a little too long at Pingu, MoonHood’s The Midnight Walk is going to hit you right in the nostalgia—and then promptly give you nightmares.

    Originally released in 2025 by the creative minds behind Lost in Random, this “cosy horror” title has just made its way to the Nintendo Switch 2 (March 2026), making it the perfect time to dive back into its clay-sculpted shadows.

    A World Literally Handcrafted

    The first thing that strikes you about The Midnight Walk isn’t the gameplay—it’s the fingerprints. Every single asset in the game, from the spindly trees to the terrifying “Crawlers,” was hand-sculpted in real clay before being 3D-scanned into Unreal Engine 5.

    Combined with a deliberate stop-motion animation style, the game feels less like a digital product and more like a fever dream happening on your desk. It’s tactile, slightly grotesque, and visually arresting in a way few modern games manage to be.

    Fire, Friendship, and “Potboy”

    You play as The Burnt One, a mysterious figure who awakens in a world swallowed by darkness. Your only hope is Potboy, a tiny, lantern-headed creature whose flame is the only thing keeping the monsters at bay.

    The gameplay is a mix of atmospheric exploration and “stealth-lite.” You aren’t a warrior; you’re a guardian.

    • The Goal: Escort Potboy to the summit of Moon Mountain to reignite the sun.
    • The Mechanic: You use Potboy’s flame to light candles, distract enemies, and solve environmental puzzles.
    • The Twist: A key mechanic involves “closing your eyes” (literally a button press) to listen for audio cues or reveal hidden paths, heightening the tension when you know something is breathing just a few feet away.

    Why You Should Care (Especially in VR)

    While it’s a fantastic experience on a standard screen, The Midnight Walk is widely considered a “must-play” for PS VR2 and PC VR owners. In fact, it took home Best VR/AR Game at the 2025 Game Awards. Being “inside” a claymation world changes the scale of the horror—those tiny clay monsters suddenly feel much larger when they’re staring you in the face.

    TechMash Verdict: It’s short (about 6–8 hours), but it’s a masterclass in art direction. If you want a game that feels like a playable Tim Burton poem, this is it.

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

    #NintendoSwitch2 #TheMidnightWalk #Moonhood #horror #scifi #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Closed Beta coming for fans of The Expanse: Osiris Reborn

    Closed Beta coming for fans of The Expanse: Osiris Reborn

    For fans of The Expanse, the wait to finally step into the magnetic boots of a Belter, Martian, or Earther is almost over. During the latest Xbox Partner Preview, developer Owlcat Games—the masterminds behind Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader—dropped a massive “protomolecule-sized” update for their upcoming action RPG, The Expanse: Osiris Reborn.

    The big news? A Closed Beta is officially launching on April 22, 2026, giving supporters a chance to experience the Belt nearly a year before the game’s full Spring 2027 release.

    How to Join the Closed Beta

    Unlike typical open betas, this phase is specifically for those helping fund the game’s ambitious development. To get in on April 22, you’ll need to have purchased one of the “Founder’s Packs” via the official website:

    The Miller’s Pack ($80): Includes the base game, digital goodies (artbook/soundtrack), and exclusive in-game items like Miller’s OPA heavy armour and his signature revolver.

    The Collector’s Edition ($289): For the true “legitimate salvage” hunters. This includes everything in the Miller’s Pack plus a physical collector’s box, a spaceship figurine, a printed art book, and more.

    The best part? Once you’re in, you stay in. Owlcat has confirmed the beta will remain playable and receive updates all the way up until the 2027 launch.

    What’s in the Beta?

    The beta isn’t just a technical stress test; it’s a substantial slice of the story. Players will play through a full mission early in the campaign.

    The story kicks off on Eros Station, where your custom character (a Pinkwater Security mercenary) is caught in the middle of a catastrophic lockdown. You’ll eventually escape to the Pinkwater 4 space station, where you’ll meet Zafar, the first of your many companions.

    Key Features to Test:

    Third-Person Combat: High-stakes, cover-based gunplay that many are already comparing to Mass Effect.

    Zero-G Movement: Experience the series’ signature Newtonian physics as you navigate environments where “up” is a relative term.

    The Exploit System: A new tactical mechanic where you can command your squad to trigger environmental traps or synchronised takedowns.

    Dialogue & Choice: Test out Owlcat’s deep RPG roots with branching conversations that reflect the political tensions between Earth, Mars, and the Belt.

    A “Mass Effect” for The Expanse Fans

    While Telltale’s recent foray into The Expanse focused on narrative adventure, Osiris Reborn is a full-scale Action RPG. Built on Unreal Engine 5, the game is pushing for a grounded, gritty aesthetic.

    From the gameplay trailer, it’s clear that companion relationships are the heart of the journey. Whether you’re upgrading your ship—the most advanced in the system—or settling disputes between your crew, your choices as Captain will carry heavy weight.

    Techmash Tip: While the beta is coming to PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, Owlcat specifically recommends playing on Xbox Series X or PS5 for the best console performance during this “work in progress” phase.

    Looking Ahead: 2027 Release & Game Pass

    If you’re not ready to drop $80 on a Founder’s Pack, there’s still plenty to be excited about. Owlcat confirmed that The Expanse: Osiris Reborn will be a Day One launch on Xbox Game Pass when it officially arrives in Spring 2027.

    The game is also confirmed for Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG, and PlayStation 5.

    Are you ready to join the OPA, or will you stay loyal to the MCRN? Let us know in the comments if you’ll be jumping into the beta this April!

    Find out more here – https://osirisreborn.owlcat.games/

    #OwlcatGames #TheExpanseOsirisReborn #ClosedBeta #scifi #opa #mcrn #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Do Your Part! Starship Troopers: Extermination Drops First Major 2026 Update

    Do Your Part! Starship Troopers: Extermination Drops First Major 2026 Update

    If you thought the bug war was getting quiet, think again. Offworld and Knights Peak have just unleashed Update 1.10, the first massive content drop of 2026 for Starship Troopers: Extermination. This isn’t just a handful of bug fixes (though those are here too); we’re talking heavy metal, new territories, and a sidearm that’ll make even a Warrior Bug think twice.

    The Federation is calling, and they’ve brought some serious hardware to the front lines. Here is everything you need to know about the latest deployment.

    The Marauder Program Has Arrived

    The headline feature of Update 1.10 is undoubtedly the debut of the Marauder Program. After months of anticipation, Troopers can finally pilot the M-11E Babar, a bipedal vehicle built for the Deepspace Vanguard.

    If you’re tired of being chased on foot, this 10.3-ton beast is your new best friend. It comes packed with:

    M64B Vulcan III Rotary Cannon: For when you need to turn a swarm into a puddle.

    M779 Ultralight-Weight Auto Howitzer: Ideal for long-range bug-squashing.

    Trip Hammer Smoothbore Cannons: Shoulder-mounted destruction for those high-priority targets.

    Reclaiming Valaka: Hope’s Retreat

    The fight returns to Valaka, but not to the areas you know. The update opens up Hope’s Retreat, a massive new expansion featuring construction sites and storage yards that the Federation is desperate to reclaim.

    This new zone isn’t just for show; it introduces a new Valakan ARC build zone, fresh AAS missions, and a dedicated Horde base. It’s dense, industrial, and perfect for the chaotic 16-player co-op the game is known for.

    The Arsenal Expands: The TW-7 Liberator

    For the elite veterans out there, reaching Re-enlistment 3 now grants access to the TW-7 Liberator. This isn’t your standard-issue pea-shooter; it’s a powerhouse revolver-style sidearm described as one of the most deadly weapons in the entire MI Arsenal. If your Morita runs dry, this is the hand cannon you want in your holster.

    The Road Ahead in 2026

    Offworld hasn’t stopped at Update 1.10. They’ve confirmed that major updates will arrive every quarter throughout 2026. With the recent launch of the single-player Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War also making waves this month, it’s a massive year for the franchise.

    Whether you’re a seasoned Vanguard or a fresh recruit, there has never been a better time to strap on your armour and get to work. Remember: the only good bug is a dead bug!

    TechMash Tip: Check the in-game settings after the update—Offworld has added a much-requested “Clear Notification Badges” button to help you tidy up those pesky green hexagons in your menu!

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

    #Offworld #KnightsPeak #StarshipTroopersExtermination #MarauderProgram #scifi #StarshipTroopers #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Borderlands 4 Story Pack 1: Mad Ellie and the Vault of the Damned – Launch Day Guide

    Borderlands 4 Story Pack 1: Mad Ellie and the Vault of the Damned – Launch Day Guide

    The wait is over, Vault Hunters! Grab your gear and check your oxygen levels, because Borderlands 4 Story Pack 1: Mad Ellie and the Vault of the Damned has officially touched down on Kairos.

    Following the massive 20GB update that rolled out yesterday, players can now dive into the first major expansion of the year. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a new recruit looking to skip the queue, there is a literal mountain of new content to explore. Here is everything you need to know about today’s launch.

    New Vault Hunter: C4SH the Rogue

    The headline addition of this DLC is undoubtedly C4SH, the franchise’s first-ever CasinoBot turned Vault Hunter. If you’ve been looking for a high-risk, high-reward playstyle, C4SH is your bot.

    Unique Mechanic: C4SH uses a randomised deck of magical cards to cast spells and grant eldritch boons.

    Action Skill – Sleight of Hand: Throw cards from a randomised deck that trigger different elemental and status effects based on the “hand” you draw.

    Instant Access: If you own the DLC, you can roll a new C4SH character and skip directly to level 13, landing you right at the start of the Story Pack content.

    Welcome to The Whispering Glacier

    Pack a coat. The expansion takes us to The Whispering Glacier, a haunting, frozen expanse on Kairos filled with the wreckage of derelict ships and dark, cosmic-horror secrets.

    The Story: Team up with the indomitable Ellie—Moxxi’s daughter and mechanic extraordinaire—to hunt down an alien monolith and breach the accursed Vault of the Damned.

    New Activities: * Nightmare Rifts: Interact with eldritch trees to be transported to a nightmare dimension for random boss encounters.

    Ice Fishing: Why use a rod when you have dynamite? Blow up fishing spots for loot and surprises.

    Dahl Bunkers & Scav Fuel Sites: New world activities to test your build against the DAHL Legion and Scav armies.

    Pro Tip: Make sure to hunt for the Eldritch Phonographs scattered around the glacier. Re-forming these fractured records unlocks unique lore entries and “dark knowledge” bonuses.

    How to Start the DLC

    If you’re wondering how to kick off the madness, follow these steps:

    Requirements: You must own the Super Deluxe Edition, the Vault Hunter Pack, or have purchased the Story Pack separately.

    Campaign Progress: You need to have completed the mission “A Lot to Process” in the Fadefields region.

    Level Recommendation: Gearbox recommends being at least Level 13.

    The Mission: Look for the mission “An Invitation” on your quest board to head to the Whispering Glacier.

    Story Pack 1: Mad Ellie and the Vault of the Damned is available now on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

    Find out more here – https://borderlands.2k.com/

    #Borderlands4 #MadEllieandtheVaultoftheDamned #Gearbox #scifi #dlc #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Rebellion Unveils Alien Deathstorm: A Visceral New Vision of Sci-Fi Horror

    Rebellion Unveils Alien Deathstorm: A Visceral New Vision of Sci-Fi Horror

    UK-based developer Rebellion—the minds behind Sniper Elite and the recent hit Atomfall—just dropped a bombshell during the March 2026 Xbox Partner Preview. Say hello to Alien Deathstorm, a brand-new, first-person action horror IP that looks set to redefine “atmospheric pressure” in gaming.

    Before you ask: no, this isn’t a licensed Alien game (though Rebellion’s history with Aliens vs. Predator certainly gives them the pedigree). This is a fresh, standalone nightmare that trades Xenomorphs for something potentially even more terrifying: a planet that is actively trying to tear you apart.

    The Premise: First Responder in a Dead Zone

    In Alien Deathstorm, you step into the boots of a Combat Engineer, a high-stakes first responder sent to a remote off-world colony after it goes radio silent. You arrive days ahead of any real rescue fleet, only to find the colony in absolute tatters.

    Your mission? Figure out what went wrong and save whoever is left. The catch? You aren’t just fighting biological horrors; you’re fighting the Deathstorm—a persistent, planet-wide atmospheric cataclysm that can level buildings and rip you into the sky if you don’t find shelter in time.

    Key Features at a Glance

    Action-Horror Hybrid: Blends Rebellion’s signature “second-to-second” ballistic gunplay with high-tension survival mechanics.

    The “Deathstorm”: A dynamic environmental threat. These hurricane-force winds aren’t just for show; they dictate when you can move and where you can hide.

    1980s Retro-Aesthetic: Design Head Ben Fisher describes the world as “mechanical keyboard over touchscreen.” Expect a chunky, analogue, 1980s VHS sci-fi vibe—think Lovecraftian dread meets John Carpenter grit.

    Strategic Survival: As a Combat Engineer, you’ll need to use demolitions and engineering skills to navigate the crumbling infrastructure while fending off swarms of unknown alien predators.

    When and Where Can You Play?

    Rebellion has confirmed a 2027 release window. While that feels like a long wait, the studio has a track record of delivering polished, distinct experiences.

    Platform Check: Alien Deathstorm is coming to Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC (Steam).

    In a massive win for subscribers, the game will also be a Day One release on Xbox Game Pass.

    Our Take: Why This Matters

    It’s bold to put “Alien” in the title of a non-licensed game, but Rebellion has the “action-horror” chops to back it up. By combining the survival-heavy DNA of Atomfall with the tight shooting of Sniper Elite, they’re carving out a niche that feels genuinely fresh. The focus on environmental hazards as a primary antagonist—rather than just another monster with teeth—could make this the sleeper hit of 2027.

    Find out more here – http://reb.to/WLADSYT

    #AlienDeathstorm #UFO #rebellion #scifi #aliens #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Warframe now on Nintendo Switch and the Shadowgrapher update

    Warframe now on Nintendo Switch and the Shadowgrapher update

    Tenno, the wait is over. Digital Extremes has officially brought its sprawling sci-fi epic, Warframe, to the Nintendo Switch 2. This isn’t just a simple port; it’s a full-throttle leap into the next generation of handheld gaming, launching simultaneously with the massive Shadowgrapher update across all platforms.

    Whether you’re a veteran looking to take your Mastery Rank on the road or a newcomer picking up a Joy-Con for the first time, here is everything you need to know about the Origin System’s latest frontier.

    The Next Level of Handheld Havoc

    While the original Switch version was a technical miracle, the Switch 2 version takes the “impossible port” and makes it look easy. Digital Extremes has optimised the experience to take full advantage of the new hardware:

    Visual Fidelity: Target 1080p resolution with 60 FPS performance in both docked and handheld modes.

    Next-Gen Tech: Full support for DLSS, enhanced volumetric lighting, and high-resolution textures.

    Precision Play: Introducing Joy-Con 2 Mouse Mode, allowing for pinpoint aiming and menu navigation that mimics a PC setup.

    Seamless Integration: Full Cross-Platform Play and Cross-Platform Save are active from day one. Your progress goes wherever you do.

    Pro Tip: Log in on your Switch 2 between March 25 and April 15 to claim the exclusive Ambimanus Pack. It includes the Vericres Warfan weapon, the Akomeogi skin, and 3-day Affinity/Credit boosters to jumpstart your journey.

    Enter The Shadowgrapher: Update 42

    Launching alongside the new hardware is The Shadowgrapher, Warframe’s 42nd major update. This expansion takes a sharp turn into survival horror, proving that even after 13 years, the Origin System still has ways to scare us.

    Meet Follie: The 64th Warframe

    Inspired by Rorschach inkblots and monochromatic horror, Follie is a reality-bending artist who uses viscous ink to control the battlefield. Her kit is built around “Shadowgraphs”—ink-based constructs that can summon anything from explosive barrels to life-support capsules.

    New Mode: Follie’s Hunt

    Forget the usual power fantasy for a moment. In the ruined Vesper Relay, players must face Follie’s Hunt. This co-op mode pits a squad of four against an invincible, stalking version of Follie. You’ll need to gather paint and complete canvases while being hunted by a foe that grows faster and more aggressive as the mission progresses. It’s tense, it’s atmospheric, and it’s unlike anything we’ve seen in Warframe before.

    13 Years and Counting

    With the Switch 2 launch, Warframe is now natively available on every major gaming platform. As Creative Director Rebecca Ford noted, the goal has always been to bring people together, and this latest launch completes the circle for their 85 million-strong community.

    Between the 13th-anniversary celebrations and the arrival of the Switch 2, there has never been a better time to “Wake up, Tenno.”

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

    #DigitalExtremes #scifi #Warframe #NintendoSwitch #TheShadowgrapher #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • CTHULHU: THE COSMIC ABYSS REVEALS NEW GAMEPLAY TRAILER AHEAD OF APRIL 16TH LAUNCH

    CTHULHU: THE COSMIC ABYSS REVEALS NEW GAMEPLAY TRAILER AHEAD OF APRIL 16TH LAUNCH

    The ocean has always been a source of mystery, but in 2053, it becomes a source of pure, unadulterated nightmare. Publisher NACON and developer Big Bad Wolf Studio (the minds behind The Council) have just dropped a deep-dive gameplay trailer for their upcoming Lovecraftian thriller, Cthulhu: The Cosmic Abyss.

    With the official launch set for April 16, 2026, this latest footage gives us our clearest look yet at how we’ll navigate the sunken, non-Euclidean city of R’lyeh.

    The Story: A Descent into the Occult

    You step into the heavy boots of Noah, an agent for Ancile—a secret branch of Interpol dedicated to occult affairs. When a deep-sea mining expedition by the Ocean-I corporation vanishes in the Pacific, Noah is sent down to find answers.

    He isn’t alone, though. Accompanying him is KEY, an advanced AI companion that helps process evidence and—more importantly—attempts to keep Noah’s tether to reality from snapping.

    New Gameplay Mechanics Revealed

    The trailer highlights that The Cosmic Abyss is less about “run-and-gun” and more about “observe and survive.” Here are the core pillars of the investigation:

    The Sonar & Frequency Analysis: In the crushing darkness of the abyss, your sonar is your lifeline. By analysing objects, you unlock new frequencies that allow you to track similar materials or reveal hidden, invisible anomalies in the environment.

    Energy vs. Corruption: Every action has a cost. Analysing clues consumes energy. If you run out of juice and keep pushing, the game taps into your Corruption Gauge. As this gauge fills, Noah begins to succumb to madness, altering both the environment and the story’s outcome.

    The Vault: A dynamic database where Noah and KEY link clues together. Much like the “Mind Palace” mechanics in modern detective games, you’ll need to manually connect dots to progress through complex puzzles.

    Corruptible Upgrades: You can find ancient artefacts to upgrade your gear, but beware—your choices can lead to these upgrades becoming corrupted or destroyed.

    Technical Specs & Platforms

    Built on Unreal Engine 5, the game promises to deliver a claustrophobic, visually stunning representation of Lovecraft’s “cyclopean” architecture.

    Pro Tip: If you missed the Steam Next Fest demo in February, keep an eye on the official Nacon website for potential last-minute trials before the April launch.

    Final Thoughts

    Cthulhu: The Cosmic Abyss looks to be a refreshing take on the mythos, blending near-future sci-fi with ancient cosmic horror. The focus on “Resource Management in Madness” suggests a high-stakes experience where being a good detective might actually cost you your soul.

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

    #CthulhuTheCosmicAbyss #NACON #BigBadWolf #scifi #horror #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Build Big, Fall Hard: Digital Vortex and Firevolt Unveil ‘Salvation Denied’

    Build Big, Fall Hard: Digital Vortex and Firevolt Unveil ‘Salvation Denied’

    If there is one thing we love at TechMash, it’s a game that takes high-end physics and turns it into absolute, unmitigated chaos. Today, publisher Digital Vortex Entertainment and indie developer Firevolt have officially pulled back the curtain on their latest project: Salvation Denied.

    Described as a “chaotic co-op building sim,” this isn’t your typical, relaxing Sunday afternoon of digital architecture. It’s a high-stakes, slapstick race against gravity where your structures are just as likely to crush you as they are to reach the finish line.

    The Premise: Robots, Chaos, and Physics

    Set on a hostile alien planet, you and up to three friends take control of a crew of mischievous, yellow construction robots. Your task? To fulfil massive building contracts for a mysterious (and frankly, quite obsessed) client.

    The catch is the HAVOK-powered physics engine. In Salvation Denied, every beam has weight, every joint has a breaking point, and every “shortcut” you take will likely result in a spectacular, slow-motion collapse. It’s a game where the building process is the antagonist, and the environment—complete with meteor showers and acid rain—is just waiting to test your structural integrity.

    Tools of the Trade

    To handle the mayhem, Firevolt has equipped players with a suite of “absurd” tools and massive machinery:

    The Gravity Gun: Perfect for repositioning massive slabs of metal or “accidentally” launching your teammates.

    The Foam Gun: A temporary fix to stabilise a wobbling tower before it topples.

    Heavy Machinery: Take the wheel of a Gravity Tank to shift entire sections of your build, or use the Fatboy—a bulldozer-shredder hybrid—to recycle your failures into new materials.

    Play It Right Now

    The best part of this announcement? You don’t have to wait until the 2026 launch to start breaking things. Digital Vortex has launched a limited-time open playtest on Steam, running from March 25th to March 31st, 2026.

    “We wanted a game about creative building with friends, but with real physics that constantly keeps players on edge,” says Ajven Pabiarzhyn, Creative Director at Firevolt. “The best moments happen when the structure starts to wobble, and nobody knows if it’s about to collapse or somehow survive.”

    Salvation Denied looks to be a must-play for fans of Poly Bridge or Lethal Company who enjoy a side of comedy with their engineering.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/I8UAi

    #DigitalVortexEntertainment #UtmostGames #Firevolt #SalvationDenied #scifi #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • High-Speed Smuggling in the Clouds: Aether & Iron Hits Steam on March 31

    High-Speed Smuggling in the Clouds: Aether & Iron Hits Steam on March 31

    Buckle up, because the 1930s just got a lot more vertical. Seismic Squirrel has officially confirmed that their highly anticipated decopunk narrative RPG, Aether & Iron, is set to launch for PC and Mac via Steam on March 31, 2026.

    If you’ve ever wondered what Mass Effect would look like if it were directed by Fritz Lang and set in a floating New York City, this is the game for you.

    Welcome to the Vertical City

    Set in an alternate timeline where the discovery of anti-gravitational “aether” technology has literally lifted New York into the sky, Aether & Iron puts you in the driver’s seat—literally. You play as Gia, a down-on-her-luck smuggler trying to navigate a city defined by stunning Art Deco architecture and deep, dangerous social divides.

    This isn’t just a walking simulator, though. The game blends deep narrative choices with tactical, turn-based vehicular combat. Your car is your lifeblood, and in this world, a good getaway driver is worth their weight in gold.

    Key Features to Watch For:

    Tactical Road Wars: Engage in strategic, turn-based battles using a fleet of customizable aether-powered vehicles. Whether you prefer a glass-cannon speedster or a tanky brute with a grenade launcher, the garage is your playground.

    Choice & Consequence: With a writing team featuring veterans from Mass Effect and Far Cry, your decisions actually matter. Your actions shape the fate of the city and your standing with its warring factions.

    The Power of the Dice: Success isn’t just about your stats (Hustle, Smarts, and Brass); it’s also about the luck of the draw. The game leans into its RPG roots with dice-driven outcomes that keep every encounter tense.

    Full Voice Acting: Immerse yourself in a fully-voiced world that brings the noir atmosphere of the 1930s to life with a modern, high-tech twist.

    A New Era of Decopunk

    Visually, the game is a knockout. Inspired by 1930s detective comics, the “decopunk” aesthetic creates a world that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly alien. From the seedy underbelly of “The Hole” to the gleaming towers of the elite, every inch of this floating metropolis is dripping with style.

    “We’re thrilled to finally bring the world of Aether & Iron to players. It’s been a journey of bringing a retro-futuristic vision to life, combining the grit of noir with the tactical depth of a modern RPG.” — Seismic Squirrel Dev Team

    Ready for Launch?

    Aether & Iron will be available on March 31 for Windows and macOS. It’s also confirmed to be Steam Deck Verified, so you can take your smuggling runs on the go.

    If you can’t wait until the end of the month, there is a free 2-hour demo currently available on Steam that lets you play through the opening act and get a feel for the turn-based car combat.

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

    #SeismicSquirrel #AetherandIron #scifi #alternatehistory #robots #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Space Engineers 2 Update VS2.2: Mechanical Blocks & Weapons are Here!

    Space Engineers 2 Update VS2.2: Mechanical Blocks & Weapons are Here!

    The wait is over, Engineers. Keen Software House has officially dropped Major Update VS2.2 for the Space Engineers 2 Alpha, and it is a massive leap forward for the Almagest system. If you felt the initial Alpha was a bit “static,” this update changes everything by introducing motion, Mayhem, and a whole lot of machinery.

    Here is everything you need to know about the Mechanical Blocks & Weapons update.

    The Engineering Revolution: Rotors & Pistons

    The most anticipated addition is undoubtedly the arrival of Mechanical Blocks. For the first time in SE2, your grids can move. Whether you’re building folding hangar doors, rotating solar arrays, or complex crane arms, the physics of the VRAGE3 engine are ready to be put to the test.

    Rotors: Available in Large (1.25m) and Small (0.5m) variants.

    Pistons: Essential for extending reach, available in Large (4m) and Small (2.5m) sizes.

    Production Lines & Area Welding

    Building at scale just got a lot easier. The update introduces Production Lines and Area Welding.

    Ship Tools: New Large and Small Welders/Grinders now feature “Area” functionality, allowing you to build or dismantle multiple blocks simultaneously.

    The Area Welder (Hand Tool): Even on foot, the Mark 1 Area Welder lets you repair clusters of blocks at once using materials from your backpack.

    Weapons & Combat Basics

    Space is no longer a peaceful vacuum. VS2.2 introduces the foundations of Combat Basics. You can now arm your ships and your character to deal with emerging threats.

    Grid Weapons: The Gatling Gun (manual) and Gatling Turret (automated) are now available to defend your builds against enemy grids and incoming projectiles.

    Character Weapons: You can now carry the Assault Rifle for precision fire and the Rocket Launcher for when you need to make a bigger statement.

    Exploration Expanded: New Moons & Asteroid Rings

    The Almagest system has grown. The update adds significant environmental variety and new places to stake your claim:

    New Moons: Explore Palatine (orbiting Verdure) and the dangerous, atmospheric Caligo (orbiting Kemik).

    Asteroid Rings & Clusters: Navigation just got more interesting with the addition of massive asteroid rings and resource-rich clusters.

    Weather & Events: Keep an eye on the sky—Planetary Events and Weather have been implemented, adding a layer of environmental survival to your base management.

    Economy, Trading, and Survival

    Survival mode is becoming much deeper. VS2.2 introduces Trading and Credits. You can now visit Trade Terminals on stations to exchange base resources, giving you a reason to haul cargo across the system.

    Note: To see the new Moons, Asteroid Rings, and Economy features, you will need to start a New Save.

    Other Key Features:

    Suit Oxygen: A new survival mechanic requiring you to manage your O2 levels.

    Cargo Ships: Non-static ships now roam the system, providing opportunities for salvage or trade.

    Customizable Controls: Finally, you can remap your keybinds to suit your playstyle.

    What’s Next on the Roadmap?

    Keen has been transparent about what didn’t make the cut for VS2.2. Wheels were prototyped but are still “cooking” and are expected in the next milestone, VS2.3, along with Hinges.

    Looking further ahead:

    VS3: Volumetric Water Systems.

    VS4: NPCs and the first iteration of Multiplayer.

    Space Engineers 2 is evolving rapidly. Whether you’re a master of “Clang” or a newcomer to the Almagest, there has never been a better time to jump back into the cockpit.

    Are you ready to build your first moving ship?

    Find out more here – https://2.spaceengineersgame.com/space-engineers-2-vs2-2/

    #KeenSoftwareHouse #SpaceEngineers2Alpha #scifi #spaceexploration #spaceengineers #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

  • The Hunt Is On With Marvel Rivals Season 7

    The Hunt Is On With Marvel Rivals Season 7

    The multiverse is about to get a lot more crowded—and a lot more dangerous. NetEase Games has officially pulled back the curtain on Marvel Rivals Season 7: The Hunt Is On, and the headline act is none other than the South Korean super-spy, White Fox.

    Launching on March 20, 2026, Season 7 isn’t just bringing new faces to the roster; it’s fundamentally shifting how the game is played. From mystical shapeshifting to a massive overhaul of the “Ultimate” meta, here is everything you need to know before the hunt begins.

    New Hero: White Fox (Ami Han)

    Ami Han, the last of the mystical Kumiho, arrives as the game’s 48th hero. Sliding into the Strategist role, White Fox is designed for players who want to be more than just a “backline healer.” She is a proactive, aggressive supporter who thrives in the thick of the fight.

    • Role: Strategist (Support/Melee Hybrid)
    • Signature Mechanic: Kumiho Energy. White Fox builds energy during combat, which she can expend to charm enemies or provide massive buffs to her team.
    • Healing & Damage: Her Yeowoo Guseul (Fox Marbles) allows her to damage enemies and heal allies simultaneously, rewarding precise positioning.
    • The Ultimate: Nine-Tailed Form. White Fox fully transforms into a massive, mystical fox. In this state, she gains a massive health boost and unleashes devastating claw strikes that provide lifesteal to her and any nearby teammates.

    Season 7.5 Teaser: Black Cat

    While White Fox leads the charge on March 20, she won’t be alone for long. NetEase confirmed that Black Cat (Felicia Hardy) will join the roster as a Duelist during the mid-season update (Season 7.5) in April. Expect high-mobility, “hit-and-run” gameplay that rivals Spider-Man’s agility.

    The Story: A Temporal Plague in New York

    The narrative stakes are skyrocketing. Forces from 2099’s Nueva York are spilling into modern-day Manhattan, bringing a “temporal plague” with them.

    The chaos has led Mayor Wilson Fisk (Kingpin) to declare martial law, turning the city into a high-tech war zone. Players will battle across a brand-new map, Lower Manhattan, featuring the aftermath of an Alchemax assault where futuristic architecture is literally overwriting the present.

    Massive Meta Shift: The “Ultimate” Nerf

    Perhaps the biggest news for competitive players is a global balance change. To combat “Ultimate spam,” NetEase is implementing a universal 20% reduction to Ultimate energy charge rates for every hero in the game.

    “We want to encourage neutral gameplay and reward mechanical skill over back-to-back ability spam,” the developers noted in the recent Dev Vision.

    Other Key Balance Changes:

    • Buffs: Blade, Hulk, Black Panther, and Scarlet Witch are all seeing significant power bumps to make them more viable in the new meta.
    • Nerfs: Meta-dominators like Doctor Strange, Winter Soldier, and Elsa Bloodstone are being dialled back.
    • Team-Ups: A new synergy, Blessing of the Kumiho, arrives for White Fox and Luna Snow, while older Team-Ups like “Jeff-Nado” are being temporarily retired.

    New Features & Competitive Updates

    • Triple Ban System: Competitive matches will now feature three bans per team, up from two, giving teams more strategic control over the lobby.
    • Personal Performance Placement: Your starting rank for Season 7 will now factor in your individual performance during placement matches, not just wins and losses.
    • Album System: A new in-game feature allowing you to capture and save cinematic moments from your matches.

    Marvel Rivals Season 7: The Hunt Is On goes live this Friday, March 20, at 9:00 AM UTC. Whether you’re a Strategist main ready to master the Kumiho or a Duelist looking to navigate the neon-soaked streets of a fractured New York, the meta is about to change forever.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://t.co/IPhy0Of1cG

    #MarvelGames #NetEaseGames #TheHuntIsOn #MarvelRivals #SciFi #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Starfield’s Massive “2.0” Moment: Free Lanes Update & Terran Armada DLC Revealed

    Starfield’s Massive “2.0” Moment: Free Lanes Update & Terran Armada DLC Revealed

    After months of “will-they-won’t-they” rumours, Bethesda has finally dropped the hammer. On April 7, 2026, Starfield isn’t just landing on the PlayStation 5; it’s receiving a fundamental DNA transplant. With the Free Lanes update overhauling how we traverse the stars and the Terran Armada expansion bringing a new robotic threat to the Settled Systems, the game is looking more like the space sim we always wanted.

    Here is everything you need to know about the biggest shake-up in Bethesda’s universe since launch.

    1. Free Lanes: Finally, Real Space Flight

    The “Free Lanes” update is the free patch every player (Xbox, PC, and now PS5) will receive. The headliner? Cruise Mode. * Interplanetary Travel: You can now manually fly between planets within a star system—no more relying solely on fast-travel menus.

    • Life on the Ship: While in Cruise Mode, you can get up from the pilot seat, customise your ship, talk to crew, or use workbenches while the stars streak by.
    • Dynamic Encounters: Space is no longer a “bubble.” You’ll run into derelict ships, distress calls, and “Incursions” as you travel.

    2. Terran Armada: The Robot Uprising

    While Free Lanes fixes the systems, Terran Armada ($9.99 or free for Premium Edition owners) adds the drama. This story DLC introduces a mysterious faction made up of former UC and Freestar soldiers who have returned with a massive army of advanced robots.

    • New Faction: The Terran Armada claims to be the “true children of Earth.”
    • Incursion System: They can actually block your Grav Jumps, forcing you to use Cruise Mode to find and take out their “blockade” ships before you can warp away.
    • New Companion: Meet Delta, a combat-hardened robot companion designed for those who don’t mind getting their hands a little dirty.

    3. Deep Customisation & X-Tech

    Bethesda is leaning into the “RPG” in ARPG with X-Tech, a new high-end resource.

    • Tier 4 Legendaries: You can now upgrade gear to a fourth legendary slot.
    • The “Reckless” Mod: Imagine a sniper rifle with a magazine size of 1 but a 500% damage boost. High risk, massive reward.
    • Cross-Outpost Storage: The community’s biggest prayer has been answered. You can finally install shared containers to access your resources from any outpost in the galaxy.

    Comparison: What’s New?

    FeatureFree Lanes UpdateTerran Armada DLC
    CostFree£8.99 / $9.99
    FlightManual Interplanetary CruiseNew Terran Ship Classes
    EnemiesNew Enemy Modifiers (Tank, Martyr)Robotic “Terran” Faction
    VehiclesMoon Jumper Land VehicleN/A
    Quality of LifeCross-Outpost StorageNew Story Questline

    The PS5 Factor

    For the first time, Sony fans are joining the fray. The PS5 version launches the same day (April 7) with full DualSense support. Expect haptic feedback for every laser blast and adaptive triggers that vary depending on your ship’s weapon loadout. Plus, PS5 Pro owners get a dedicated 60fps Performance Mode.

    TechMash Verdict: Bethesda calls this “not quite 2.0,” but with manual space flight and a shared storage system, it’s the most significant evolution of the game to date. Whether you’re a returning veteran or a PS5 newcomer, the Settled Systems are about to feel a lot less empty.

    Find out more here – http://starfieldgame.com/

    #Starfield #BethesdaGameStudios #rpg #scifi #spaceexploration #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames

  • Mandated Fate Brings Bureaucratic Sci-Fi Dystopia to the Curious Odyssey Festival

    Mandated Fate Brings Bureaucratic Sci-Fi Dystopia to the Curious Odyssey Festival

    If you’ve ever looked at a stack of tax forms and thought, “This would be much more intimidating with anti-gravity tech and an omnipresent secret police,” then Tetrarchy Studios has the perfect experience for you.

    As part of the Curious Odyssey Festival on Steam, the solo-developed indie gem Mandated Fate is stepping out of the shadows. It’s a game that swaps the typical high-octane laser battles of sci-fi for something much more chilling: the suffocating weight of a technocratic bureaucracy.

    A World Where Innovation is a Cage

    Set in an alternate-history 1985, Mandated Fate imagines a world where humanity didn’t just reach for the stars—it was dragged there by the Greater American Technological Empire (G.A.T.E.). The regime is obsessed with mastering the anti-gravity particle, framing the space race as a matter of national survival.

    You step into the weary boots of an Imperial Inspector. Your mission? Head into the “Old District”—a vertical, rain-soaked labyrinth that hasn’t quite fallen in line with the Empire’s shiny new world order—to investigate a mysterious murder.

    “There are no heroes here, only individuals navigating the suffocating gray spaces of power and survival.”

    Why We’re Watching This One

    What makes Mandated Fate stand out in a sea of neon-drenched indies is its commitment to “social thriller” mechanics. Here’s what’s under the hood:

    • Moral Weight: This isn’t just about finding clues. You’ll be forced to choose between loyalty to the regime and your own fading conscience. Every bribe taken or neighbour betrayed has a ripple effect.
    • The “Deco-Brutalist” Aesthetic: Built in Unreal Engine 5, the world is a striking mix of grand Art Deco ruins and massive, oppressive neo-brutalist structures.
    • Seamless Exploration: Whether you’re walking the streets, riding the fully functional subway system, or driving (under the watchful eye of surveillance, of course), there are no loading screens to break the tension.
    • Solo-Dev Soul: Almost every asset in the game has been handcrafted by developer Thibaut Billerot, giving the world a cohesive, personal grittiness that “AAA” titles often polish away.

    Experience the Dystopia at Curious Odyssey

    The Curious Odyssey Festival is all about celebrating the experimental and the unusual, making it the perfect venue for a game that asks you to uphold the law by breaking it.

    If you’re a fan of Papers, Please, Blade Runner, or the paranoid thrillers of the 70s and 80s, this is one to keep on your radar. You can check out the demo and see the “Bureaucratic Dystopia” in action over on the Mandated Fate Steam Page.

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

    #TetrarchyStudios #MandatedFate #SciFi #Dystopia #CuriousOdysseyFestival #gameupdate #games #gaming #gamers #platformer #gameplay #demogame #videogames #arcadegames