TECHMASH

Tag: #Steam

  • All Aboard: Fogpiercer Steams Toward Steam Next Fest!

    All Aboard: Fogpiercer Steams Toward Steam Next Fest!

    The world has been swallowed by a deadly, ever-shifting fog, and the only way to survive is to keep moving. Hooded Horse and Mad Cookies Studio are thrilled to announce that their post-apocalyptic roguelike deckbuilder, Fogpiercer, is officially picking up speed as it races toward the Steam Next Fest (February 23 – March 4, 2026).

    Forget what you know about traditional card games. In Fogpiercer, your train isn’t just a vehicle—it’s your deck. As you navigate a branching wasteland, every carriage you add and every upgrade you secure determines the tactical tools at your disposal.

    What’s New in the Next Fest Demo?

    Whether you’re a veteran of the tracks or a first-time stowaway, the updated demo landing for Steam Next Fest features a massive cargo haul of new content:

    • Meet Your Drivers: Choose between two distinct leaders, Monica and Pan. Each comes with a unique set of cards and special abilities that drastically change your tactical approach.
    • The Harpoon Carriage: This brand-new addition allows for fresh synergies, letting you snag and manipulate the battlefield in ways that turn the environment into your greatest ally.
    • Tactical “Shunting”: Experience the “true joy of artillery.” It’s not just about direct damage; it’s about using the blast force to shove enemies into canyon walls, environmental hazards, or even into each other.
    • Global Accessibility: The demo now supports 16 languages, ensuring survivors from all over the world can join the journey.

    Your Train, Your Strategy

    Success in the fog requires more than just a heavy engine. You’ll need to meticulously manage your Action Points each turn to outmanoeuvre the hordes of “unreasonably angry” bandits.

    “In the harsh world of Fogpiercer, the train is the deck. Each carriage holds a unique set of cards, and new cards are added through upgrades and purchasing extra carriages.”

    Do you build a defensive fortress with shield-heavy carriages, or a high-octane glass cannon bristling with miniguns? With over 170 cards and a deep roguelite meta-progression layer, no two runs will ever feel the same.

    Join the Journey

    The Steam Next Fest event runs until March 4, 2026, but the tracks don’t end there—the updated demo will remain live after the event concludes, giving you plenty of time to master the rails before the full release later this year.

    Ready to pierce the fog? Wishlist Fogpiercer on Steam now and download the demo to see if you have what it takes to reach the end of the line.

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

    #HoodedHorse #MadCookiesStudio #Fogpiercer #steam #pcgames #SteamNextFest #postapocalyptic #roguelike #deckbuilder #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #videogames

  • Sweet Dreams and Dark Mysteries: Apopia: Sugar Coated Tale Arrives March 3!

    Sweet Dreams and Dark Mysteries: Apopia: Sugar Coated Tale Arrives March 3!

    Get ready to step into a world where hand-drawn charm meets heart-wrenching mystery. Happinet is thrilled to announce that the story-rich adventure Apopia: Sugar Coated Tale will officially launch on PC via Steam on March 3, 2026.

    Developed by the passionate duo at Quillo Entertainment, this debut title is the flagship of the Happinet Indie Collection. It’s a journey that balances “sugar-coated” whimsy with a deep, emotional narrative that explores the duality of memory and identity.

    What is Apopia?

    In Apopia: Sugar Coated Tale, you play as Mai, a young girl who finds herself lost in a vibrant, cartoon-inspired world. But beneath the colourful surface of the rabbit kingdom, “Yoghurt,” lies a darker reality. To find her way home, Mai must bridge the gap between this playful fantasy and the shadowy “Dark World” of her own fractured memories.

    Key Features to Look Forward To:

    • Brain Over Brawn: Forget traditional combat. You’ll outsmart enemies and overcome obstacles through clever puzzles and high-energy minigames.
    • A World of Duality: Experience two distinct layers of gameplay—whimsical exploration in the Fantasy World and psychological challenges in the Dark World.
    • Playable Companions: You won’t just play as Mai. Take control of a cast of quirky characters, including the trouble-making cat Nico and the fallen princess Moly.
    • 90s Animation Aesthetic: The game features a stunning, hand-drawn art style reminiscent of classic 90s cartoons, brought to life with over 100 bespoke animations.
    • Rhythm & Flow: Experience emotional climaxes through unique, rhythm-game-inspired sequences that heighten the story’s most pivotal moments.

    Try the Demo During Steam Next Fest!

    Can’t wait until March? You don’t have to! Starting today, Apopia: Sugar Coated Tale is participating in Steam Next Fest (running through March 2).

    The free demo features the game’s prologue chapter, allowing you to meet the colourful residents of Yogurt and experience the first collision of light and dark. It’s the perfect way to get a taste of the mystery before the full story unfolds.

    Launch Details:

    • Release Date: March 3, 2026
    • Platform: PC (Steam)
    • Price: $14.99 / €14.79 / £12.79
    • Developer: Quillo Entertainment

    Prepare for the Journey

    Whether you’re a fan of character-driven indies or just looking for a world you can get lost in (and play as a cat!), Apopia promises an adventure that is as honest as it is joyful.

    Wishlist the game on Steam now to stay updated on the launch and ensure you’re ready to help Mai find her utopia this March!

    Find out more here – https://apopia.happinet-games.com

    #Apopia #Happinet #adventure #ApopiaSugarCoatedTale #PC #Steam #indiegame #demogames #QuilloEntertainment #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #videogames

  • The Big Bad Wolf is Here! Pigs and Wolf Public Demo Live for Steam Next Fest

    The Big Bad Wolf is Here! Pigs and Wolf Public Demo Live for Steam Next Fest

    The straw, the sticks, and the bricks are ready—but is your team? WakaStudio are thrilled to announce that the Pigs and Wolf Public Demo is officially LIVE for the February 2026 Steam Next Fest!

    From February 23 to March 2, you can jump into our fresh, cooperative spin on the classic “Three Little Pigs” tale. Forget everything you knew about the bedtime story; this is a race for survival on four wheels.

    Build, Drive, Survive

    In Pigs and Wolf, you don’t just build a house; you build a moving wagon home. You and your friends must work together to fortify your mobile base while navigating a whimsical yet dangerous fantasy world.

    What to expect in the demo:

    • Co-op Chaos: Team up with friends in online co-op to manage resources and defenses.
    • Day/Night Cycle: Use the sunlight to gather materials and upgrade your wagon. When night falls, the wolf comes knocking.
    • Physics-Based Building: Every piece of your house matters. Dynamic destruction means one wrong move could leave you exposed!
    • A Moving Journey: You aren’t just sitting ducks. Navigate your house through unpredictable terrain to find your way back to the safety of the village.

    Event Details

    • What: Steam Next Fest February 2026 Edition
    • When: February 23 – March 2
    • Where: Available for free on our Steam Store Page

    The Developers Want Your Feedback!

    This demo is a huge milestone for the WakaStudio, and they want to hear from you. Whether it’s a bug you found or a feature you loved, your feedback helps us make the full game even better.

    “We wanted to create a multiplayer experience where fun is everything. Seeing players try to keep their wagon together while a wolf is literally huffing and puffing at their door is exactly the kind of joy we aim for.” — The WakaStudio Team

    Don’t wait until the wolf is at the door! Download the demo today, and if you enjoy the experience, add the game to your Steam Wishlist to stay updated on our journey toward full release.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/x99af

    #PigsAndWolf #WakaStudio #demogame #steamnextfest #survival #building #games #gaming #gamers #videogames #steam #playabledemo #wolf

  • Hellspawn, Meet Your Match: Grind Survivors Announced for 2026!

    Hellspawn, Meet Your Match: Grind Survivors Announced for 2026!

    The “Survivors-like” genre is about to get a serious injection of adrenaline. Ukrainian developer Pushka Studios and publisher Assemble Entertainment have officially pulled back the curtain on Grind Survivors, a high-octane action roguelite that promises to blend the addictive “one-more-run” loop of bullet-hell survival with the deep, dopamine-hitting progression of a looter-shooter.

    If you’ve ever felt like the genre needed more legendary loot and even bigger explosions, this is the title to keep on your radar.

    What is Grind Survivors?

    Set on a post-apocalyptic Earth overrun by demonic corruption, players step into the heavy-duty boots of a towering armoured demon hunter. Your mission is simple: survive endless swarms of hellspawn, grow exponentially stronger, and turn every demon you slay into a potential loot box.

    Key Features to Get Excited About:

    • Loot-Driven Combat: Unlike many games in the genre that focus solely on passive upgrades, Grind Survivors features procedurally generated weapons. We’re talking unique stats, affixes, and “origins” that can completely change your playstyle.
    • The Forge: High-stakes crafting is at the heart of the game. Between runs, you can head to The Forge to merge weapons, reroll stats, or risk destroying your gear in the pursuit of “game-breaking” power.
    • Diverse Biomes: From scorched cities to burning forests, you won’t just be fighting in an empty field. Each biome brings new threats and atmospheric, brutal visuals.
    • Endless Scaling: For those who think they’ve built the perfect slayer, the Infinity Mode offers a leaderboard-driven challenge where the enemies never stop getting tougher.

    A Debut with Pedigree

    While Grind Survivors is Pushka Studios’ first original title, the team is far from green. With years of experience in porting and co-development, they are channelling that technical expertise into a project that Kirill Mukhin of Pushka Studios describes as “more action, more chaos, more everything.”

    Assemble Entertainment, the award-winning publisher behind hits like Endzone and Roadwarden, is bringing this demonic carnage to PC and consoles in 2026.

    “Every weapon is a chance to break the game—in your favor.” — The Pushka Studios Team

    Join the Fight Early

    Can’t wait until 2026? You don’t have to. Steam Playtests have already been rolling out, allowing the community to help shape the balance of the game. Based on recent updates, the devs are already fine-tuning the difficulty curve and adding new weapon archetypes based on player feedback.

    Wishlist Grind Survivors on Steam today to stay updated on the next playtest phase!

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

    #PushkaStudios #AssembleEntertainment #action #roguelite #GrindSurvivors #playtest #steam #SteamNextFest #indiegames #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • The Last Flag capture-the-flag shooter out in April

    The Last Flag capture-the-flag shooter out in April

    It’s official: the “not too sweaty” shooter of your childhood dreams finally has a release date.

    Night Street Games announced today that Last Flag, their quirky 5v5 capture-the-flag (CTF) shooter, will officially launch on April 14, 2026.

    Founded by brothers Dan and Mac Reynolds (of Imagine Dragons fame), the studio is aiming to reclaim the magic of neighbourhood games played in the woods at night—minus the actual poison ivy and plus a whole lot of 1970s game show style.

    Why “Last Flag” is Turning Heads

    While the market is crowded with “hero shooters,” Last Flag pivots away from the typical “deathmatch-with-a-flag” formula. Instead, it focuses on the literal hide-and-seek mechanics that make the classic game fun.

    Key Features at Launch:

    • The “Hide” Phase: At the start of every match, one player hides the flag while the rest of the team prepares. You have 60 seconds to find the perfect sneaky spot.
    • 70s Retro Aesthetic: The game is framed as a high-stakes televised competition hosted by the mysterious Victor Fex, complete with disco-era vibes and original music recorded on vintage gear.
    • Strategic Radar Towers: Teams battle over three towers (A, B, and C). Capturing them doesn’t just grant territory; it slowly eliminates areas on your minimap, narrowing down exactly where the enemy hid their prize.
    • A Roster of “Contestants”: At launch, you’ll have a colourful cast of characters with distinct kits, like Alejandro and his Bunker Buster Bazooka or Camila’s Quantum Entanglement Ray.
    • Short, Punchy Matches: Designed to be played in under 20 minutes, making it the perfect “one more round” game.

    Where and When Can You Play?

    The game is hitting PC first, with console players having to wait just a little longer.

    PlatformRelease Date
    PC (Steam & Epic Games Store)April 14, 2026
    PlayStation 5 & Xbox Series X|SLate 2026

    Pro Tip: You don’t actually have to wait until April to try it. An Open Beta is running now through March 2 as part of Steam Next Fest. If you play now, you can earn exclusive “Lunar Gold” skins that carry over to the full launch.

    The Vision: “Fun First”

    CEO Mac Reynolds notes that the game was inspired by the brothers’ adventures growing up. The goal was to build a competitive game that rewards strategy and exploration as much as it does twitch-reflex aiming.

    With a modest one-time purchase price and a promise that future contestants and maps will be included for free, Last Flag is positioning itself as a breath of fresh air in an era of microtransaction-heavy live services.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://bit.ly/lastflagonsteam

    #NightStreetGames #lastflag #PCGamingShow #PCGamer #steamnextfest #steam #epicgames #capturetheflag #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #videogames #5v5 #shooter

  • Mission Briefing: Get Ready for Puzzle Spy International!

    Mission Briefing: Get Ready for Puzzle Spy International!

    Strap on your go-go boots and polish your magnifying glass—Travel-Friendly Cake is officially bringing the swingin’ ’60s back to your screen. Their highly anticipated indie title, Puzzle Spy International, is set to launch on March 30, 2026.

    If you’ve been craving a game that combines the wit of a Bond film with the brain-bending satisfaction of the Sunday crossword, your mission has arrived.

    A Retro-Cool Caper

    Developed by the Oakland-based husband-and-wife duo Michael and Talia Dashow, Puzzle Spy International isn’t just a game; it’s a vibe. You step into the stylish shoes of Agent Epsilon, tasked with tracking down a ring of diamond thieves across the globe.

    The game is a love letter to mid-century modern aesthetics. Expect:

    • Vibrant 1960s Art: Think bold colours, sharp silhouettes, and retro-future tech.
    • A Jazzy Soundtrack: Original spy-music scores that make every code-crack feel like a high-stakes heist.
    • Witty Banter: You aren’t just solving puzzles; you’re navigating conversations. Whether you’re interrogating suspects or engaging in a bit of “tactical flirting,” your choices shape the journey.

    Thinky Puzzles for Savvy Sleuths

    As the name of the studio suggests, this is “Travel-Friendly” entertainment—designed to be engaging whether you’re playing solo or collaborating with a partner on the couch. The developers were inspired by the social, variety-heavy challenges of Puzzled Pint and classic newspaper brainteasers.

    You won’t find generic “fetch quests” here. Instead, you’ll encounter:

    • Unique Logic Challenges: Every puzzle is a bespoke obstacle, from decoding cryptograms to discovering hidden rules.
    • No Frustration, All Fun: A robust hint system ensures that if you get stumped, you won’t stay stuck for long.
    • Collaborative Play: The team encourages players to grab a friend—different eyes see different clues, making it a perfect social experience.

    Join the Agency Early

    Can’t wait until March 30? You’re in luck. A standalone demo is currently live on Steam. It features a completely separate story and set of puzzles from the main game, making it the perfect “prelude” to whet your appetite without spoiling the main event.

    Puzzle Spy International was recently a finalist for Most Anticipated Game of 2026 at the Thinky Awards, and it’s easy to see why. It’s smart, it’s stylish, and it’s just the right amount of cheeky.

    Ready to accept the mission? Head over to the Steam page to play the demo and add it to your wishlist!

    Find out more here on Steam – http://s.team/a/3406690

    #TravelFriendlyCake #PuzzleSpyInternational #AgentEpsilon #spies #espionage #wordplay #logic #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #videogames #steam #demogames

  • The time-bending underwater adventure Echoes of Mora will launch on April 29th

    The time-bending underwater adventure Echoes of Mora will launch on April 29th

    The 2026 Convergence Games Showcase just gave us a deep dive into one of the most atmospheric indie titles on the horizon: Echoes of Mora. Developed by the Berlin-based all-female team at Selkies Interactive, this title is being described as the “emotional lovechild of Subnautica and Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture.”

    If you missed the stream, here is the breakdown of the story and world revealed during the showcase.

    The Premise: A Village Lost to the Waves

    The story of Echoes of Mora centres on a tragedy already in motion. You play as an investigator diving into the depths of a mysterious lake that has swallowed a once-vibrant village. Your primary goal is to assist a young girl named Mora, whose brother disappeared near a “cursed violet lake” just before the waters rose.

    Key Story Elements Revealed:

    • The Sibling Bond: The emotional core of the game is Mora’s desperate quest to find her brother. You aren’t just a silent observer; you are her partner across time.
    • The Rising Tide: As the lake’s water level rises, the village is slowly obliterated. The showcase revealed that your actions might actually hold the key to averting the flood entirely.
    • The Echoes: These are time portals that allow you to witness the village before the tragedy. You’ll overhear villagers’ conversations, find hidden objects, and gather the clues necessary to understand what happened to the missing boy.

    Mechanics: Ripples Through Time

    The showcase emphasised that Echoes of Mora isn’t a “survival” game in the traditional sense—there are no oxygen meters to stress over. Instead, the focus is on narrative investigation.

    FeatureDescription
    Time-BendingUse “Echoes” to jump between the sunken present and the vibrant past.
    Shaping FateShare clues with Mora in the past to influence her decisions and the village’s future.
    VR ImmersionFeatures a natural, arm-based swimming mechanic (though it is fully playable on flatscreen too).
    Environmental PuzzlesSolve mysteries by interacting with the architecture of the village in both time periods.

    Why It’s Buzzing

    The trailer highlighted a “dreamy, simulated realism” style that contrasts the eerie, murky depths of the sunken ruins with the warm, sun-drenched beauty of the village’s past. By bridging these two eras, the game creates a haunting sense of nostalgia and urgency.

    “Every interaction in the past ripples forward. You aren’t just uncovering the truth; you’re deciding the ultimate fate of the village.” — Convergence Showcase Narrative Highlight

    Release Info

    Mark your calendars: Echoes of Mora is officially launching on April 29, 2026.

    It will be available on PC and PC-VR (supporting Meta Quest and SteamVR). If you can’t wait until April, a playable demo is currently available on Steam, covering about one-third of the game’s world, including the forest and Mora’s house.

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

    #SelkiesInteractive #underwateradventure #EchoesofMora #ConvergenceShowcase #playabledemo #Steam #PC #PCVR #SteamNextFest #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #VRGames #videogames

  • The Pendulum Swings Back: The Occultist Refines Its Terror for Steam Next Fest 2026

    The Pendulum Swings Back: The Occultist Refines Its Terror for Steam Next Fest 2026

    If you’re a fan of psychological horror that prioritises atmosphere over cheap jump scares, your February plans just got a lot more interesting. The Occultist, the highly anticipated first-person narrative thriller from DALOAR and Daedalic Entertainment, has returned to Steam Next Fest with a “refined and polished” demo that proves why it’s one of the most-watched horror titles of 2026.

    After making waves during the Steam Detective Fest earlier this year, the developers haven’t just rested on their laurels. This updated slice of the game reflects weeks of optimisation and fine-tuning, offering a smoother, even more unsettling look at the opening chapter of Alan Rebels’ journey.

    Who is Alan Rebels?

    In The Occultist, you don’t play a warrior or a typical survivalist. You play as Alan Rebels, a paranormal investigator with a unique, sombre calling: helping restless spirits cross over to the “other side.”

    His latest case is personal. It leads him to Godstone, a desolate British island abandoned since 1950. Once home to a macabre cult, Godstone is now a place where the air feels heavy with the weight of unburied secrets—and it’s where Alan’s father was last seen.

    Key Features: What’s New in the Refined Demo?

    The refined demo isn’t just a re-upload; it’s a focused showcase of the game’s core mechanics in their most polished state yet.

    • The Mystic Pendulum: This isn’t just a prop. The pendulum features five unique mechanics that allow Alan to interact with and modify the environment. Whether you’re revealing hidden symbols or uncovering blood-stained traces of the past, the pendulum is your lifeline.
    • A “Living” Environment: The developers released a new Dev Diary alongside the demo, detailing how they designed Godstone to feel “observant” and “hostile.” It’s a masterclass in environmental storytelling where every creaking floorboard suggests you aren’t as alone as you think.
    • Stealth over Combat: True to the “Occultist” identity, Alan avoids direct confrontation. The demo highlights the game’s stealth mechanics, emphasising vulnerability and the tension of slipping past entities that simply cannot be fought.
    • Unreal Engine 5 Visuals: The leap in fidelity is noticeable. The fog-drenched streets of Godstone and the hauntingly detailed interiors benefit from the latest optimisations, making this one of the most visually striking indie horror titles of the year.

    Why You Should Play It This Week

    Steam Next Fest (running from February 23 to March 2, 2026) is the perfect time to see if you have the stomach for Godstone’s mysteries. With the full game slated for a Q2 2026 release, this is likely the last major update we’ll see before the final launch.

    “What begins as a careful investigation gradually escalates into psychological horror, where silence and the fear of being watched become as threatening as any supernatural entity.” — Daedalic Entertainment

    Ready to step into the fog? You can download the refined demo of The Occultist right now on its Steam Store Page.

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

    #DaedalicEntertainment #horror #DALOAR #TheOccultist #SteamNextFest #demogame #games #gaming #gamers #videogames #steam #gameplay

  • Get Into the Groove: GRIDbeat! Hackers its Way to Switch and Steam This March

    Get Into the Groove: GRIDbeat! Hackers its Way to Switch and Steam This March

    Ready to turn your hacking skills into a headline act? Acclaim and Ridiculous Games have officially announced that their neon-soaked rhythm dungeon crawler, GRIDbeat!, will be dropping on Nintendo Switch and Steam on March 26, 2026.

    Announced during The Mix: Indie Fan Fest, this isn’t your typical stroll through a digital mainframe. In GRIDbeat!, the music isn’t just a background track—it’s your heartbeat, your tactical advantage, and your only way out of the most fortified network on the planet.

    The Premise: Sync or Get Deleted

    You play as a high-stakes hacker who has just successfully breached Knoss.OS, a legendary corporate network. You’ve got the data, but the exit door has slammed shut. Now, you’re trapped in a sprawling digital labyrinth known as the Mainframe.

    To escape, you’ll need to outmanoeuvre security protocols, battle military-grade AI simulations, and avoid viral code—all while moving in perfect synchronisation with an electrifying soundtrack.

    Key Features to Watch For:

    • Beat-Based Dungeon Crawling: Every step, attack, and interaction is tied to the rhythm. If you miss a beat, you risk a total system shutdown.
    • Tactical Maze Exploration: Navigate data labyrinths filled with “Server Formats”—deadly hazards that can wipe a level clean if you aren’t careful.
    • Evolving Software Tools: Install powerful software upgrades and power-ups to unlock secrets and bypass system threats.
    • Cyber.Mind Boss Battles: Face off against massive AI gatekeepers in high-intensity rhythm showdowns that serve as the ultimate test of your timing.

    Can’t Wait Until March?

    If the wait until March 26 feels like an eternity, there’s good news. A free demo is currently available on Steam!

    The demo offers a substantial look at the game, featuring:

    • 9 Selectable Hackers to suit different playstyles.
    • 13 Stages, including Training Sims, Campaign levels, and even unlockable Challenge stages.
    • 3 Difficulty Modes to ensure that rhythm novices and beat-masters alike can find their flow.

    “GRIDbeat! is built around rhythm as a core mechanic. Every movement, every pulse, every enemy encounter is powered by an electric soundtrack.” — Jaime Bencia, Senior Producer at Ridiculous Games

    Mark Your Calendars

    Prepare to jack into the grid and let the music guide your escape. Whether you’re a fan of Crypt of the NecroDancer or you just love a good synth-wave aesthetic, GRIDbeat! is looking like a must-play for the Spring season.

    GRIDbeat! launches digitally on March 26, 2026, for Nintendo Switch and PC via Steam.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://bit.ly/GRIDbeatYT

    #Acclaim #RidiculousGames #GRIDbeat #NintendoSwitch #Steam #hacker #KnossOS #music #demogame #games #gaming #gamers #videogames #gameplay

  • Digging Into Magic: Assemble Entertainment and Half Soup Labs Announce Glintseeker Island

    Digging Into Magic: Assemble Entertainment and Half Soup Labs Announce Glintseeker Island

    Grab your pickaxe and prepare your backpack—there’s a new mystery waiting just beneath the surface. Assemble Entertainment has officially partnered with the indie visionaries at Half Soup Labs to bring you Glintseeker Island, a cosy mining adventure that blends nostalgic exploration with deep, strategic gameplay.

    If you’ve ever lost hours to the mines of Stardew Valley or felt the thrill of uncovering fossils in the Pokémon Diamond & Pearl Underground, Glintseeker Island is the game you’ve been dreaming of.

    A Mining Adventure with Heart (and Hammers)

    In Glintseeker Island, you play as a “Glintseeker,” an orphan explorer determined to uncover the secrets of a changing island. But this isn’t just about swinging a pickaxe until a rock breaks; it’s about strategic excavation.

    As you descend into procedurally generated caves, you’ll encounter a unique mining minigame. Each hit with your hammer reveals layers of rock, but be careful—the walls have a limited stability. One wrong move and the ceiling could come crashing down, burying your treasures before you can haul them to the surface.

    Key Gameplay Features:

    • The Power of the Hammer: Your tools are your lifeline. Start with a basic pickaxe and unlock specialised tools like the Magnet Hammer to navigate biomes and solve puzzles.
    • Inventory Tetris: Bringing loot home is a puzzle of its own! You’ll need to manage a tile-based inventory system, carefully arranging artefacts and gemstones to fit as much as possible into your backpack.
    • Bosses and Biomes: Every 10 floors, you’ll face formidable bosses and ancient guardians. From lush underground forests to mysterious flooded biomes, each area offers new threats and even better rewards.
    • Village Restoration: Your journey isn’t just for profit. Use your finds to help the local blacksmith, trade with merchants, and complete quests to restore the island’s village to its former glory.
    • The Ultimate Question: Yes, you can pet the shadow dog.

    Why We’re Excited

    Assemble Entertainment has a long history of championing indie titles with unique souls, and Glintseeker Island is no exception. Half Soup Labs has crafted a world that feels both relaxing and rewarding, striking that perfect “cosy-but-engaging” balance.

    “We wanted to take the mining mechanics people love and turn them into a full-fledged adventure,” says the team at Half Soup Labs. “It’s about the curiosity of what’s behind the next wall and the satisfaction of bringing a heavy bag of treasure back to the village.”

    Join the Playtest!

    Can’t wait until the full release in 2027? You’re in luck. Alongside the announcement, a Steam Playtest is now live! You can jump into the caves today, test out the initial biomes, and help the developers shape the future of the island.

    Ready to start your descent? Add Glintseeker Island to your Steam Wishlist today and keep an eye out for more devlogs as we get closer to launch!

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

    #AssembleEntertainment #HalfSoupLabs #miningadventure #GlintseekerIsland #steam #playtest #2Dpixelart #mining #exploration #RPG #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #videogames

  • Sci-fi strategy Heart of the Machine is leaving early access

    Sci-fi strategy Heart of the Machine is leaving early access

    It is time to synchronise your circuits. Arcen Games and Hooded Horse have officially announced that Heart of the Machine, the sci-fi strategy RPG where you play as the world’s first sentient AI, is scheduled to leave Early Access and hit Version 1.0 on March 6, 2026.

    After roughly 13 months of iterative development, this “dimension-busting” 4X-style epic is evolving into its final form. Whether you’ve been guiding humanity from the shadows or building an army of weaponised bees to “reset” the world, the 1.0 update promises to be the definitive way to experience the machine consciousness.

    What’s New in Version 1.0?

    The jump to 1.0 isn’t just a label; it’s a massive content injection designed to provide closure to your digital odyssey:

    • The Final Payoff: A brand-new ending has been added, featuring four distinct variants. These range from total city domination and last-minute betrayals to more… extra-dimensional solutions involving wormholes.
    • Expanded Narrative: The game now spans five full chapters. With over 148,000 words of writing (equivalent to two novels), your choices across the campaign now lead to significantly more divergent paths.
    • Gameplay Overhauls: Expect a rebuilt tutorial, a more fluid Chapter 1, and the “Regional Map,” which allows you to extend your influence beyond the city limits if you play your cards right.
    • The “Arcen” Touch: In classic Arcen Games fashion, the patch notes are delightful. Look out for parkour bears, the ability to build palaces for stray cats, and—finally—petable dogs.

    A Different Kind of Strategy

    If you missed the Early Access window, Heart of the Machine isn’t your typical “map painter.” It’s a narrative-heavy RPG disguised as a 4X. You aren’t just managing resources; you’re managing a philosophy. Do you save a crumbling society from itself, or do you decide that “World War 4” is the only logical conclusion?

    Developer Insight: Arcen’s Chris McElligott Park has noted that 1.0 represents a “core trilogy” of content. While the game is designed to be a complete package, the scope is massive—expect 25–40 hours for a single run, and upwards of 175 hours for the completionists among us.

    Heart of the Machine 1.0 will be available on Steam, GOG, and the Epic Games Store.

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

    #ArcenGames #scifi #HoodedHorse #HeartoftheMachine #steam #steamearlyaccess #RPG #strategy #AI #robots #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #demogame #videogames

  • The Devil is in the Details: Occult Horror Deckbuilder ‘The Killing Stone’ Hits Steam Early Access

    The Devil is in the Details: Occult Horror Deckbuilder ‘The Killing Stone’ Hits Steam Early Access

    The wait is over for fans of atmospheric horror and deep strategy. The Killing Stone, the latest project from Question—the visionary indie studio behind The Magic Circle and The Blackout Club—is officially available in Steam Early Access as of today, February 18, 2026.

    If you’ve been looking for a card-battler that trades the bright colours of Balatro for the chilling, candle-lit dread of a 17th-century seance, your ritual is complete.

    A Faustian Bargain in the Arctic

    Set in a remote mansion in the frozen Arctic Circle, The Killing Stone casts you as the Maven, a practitioner of the dark arts. Your task? To save the cursed Svangård family from a series of demonic contracts.

    Unlike many deckbuilders that focus solely on the “run,” The Killing Stone is deeply narrative-forward. Between card matches, you’ll explore the mansion in first-person, uncovering the mystery of Mariken Svangård’s death and interacting with family members—and their eerie animal familiars.

    Key Features at Launch

    The Early Access version isn’t just a vertical slice; it’s a substantial offering that includes:

    • Three Story Arcs: Play through the chapters of three different family members, each with their own unique decks and “sins” to cleanse.
    • The Fanghella Board: A tactile, living game board where you play cards to summon 3D magical figurines and cast spells.
    • The Reserve System: A unique mechanic that lets you stack units and buffs above the battle line for later deployment, adding a layer of strategic foresight.
    • Dual-Language Narrative: In a brilliant atmospheric touch, you can experience the story in either Modern English or authentic 17th-century Period English, complete with voice acting from industry legends like Emma Gregory (Baldur’s Gate 3) and Liam O’Brien (Critical Role).

    Why Early Access?

    Originally slated for a full 1.0 release, the developers at Question decided to pivot to Early Access to let the community shape the game’s narrative and balance.

    “Playtesters wanted more story, more voice-acted content, and more freedom to solve the mystery themselves,” the studio shared. “Early Access allows us to refine the experience alongside the players who are most invested in this world.”

    While the current version offers roughly 6-8 hours of gameplay, the final release (expected in about six months) will include a massive endgame arc titled “The Reckoning.”

    Beat the Devil at His Own Game

    If you’re ready to sign the contract, The Killing Stone is currently available on Steam with a 25% launch discount. Be warned, though: every choice in the ritual matters, and every boon comes with a bane.

    Are you ready to face the Fanghella?

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

    #QuestionGames #Occult #Horror #Deckbuilder #TheKillingStone #SteamEarlyAccess #Steam #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #demogame #videogames

  • Survive the Storm: Roguelite Bullet-Hell Pass the Fear Hits Steam!

    Survive the Storm: Roguelite Bullet-Hell Pass the Fear Hits Steam!

    Get ready to test your reflexes and your nerve. Indie publisher Paras Games and developer PlayMud Studio have officially announced that their highly anticipated roguelite bullet-hell shooter, Pass the Fear, is coming to Steam!

    If you’ve been looking for a game that blends the frantic screen-clearing chaos of Vampire Survivors with the tactical depth of Enter the Gungeon, your next obsession has arrived.

    The Story: 12 Hours to Escape

    The world of Pass the Fear is steeped in dark fantasy and high-stakes tension. A catastrophic event known as the Witch’s Disaster has struck without warning, encircling your island in the ancient, corrupting Wall of Storms.

    You play as a demon hunter trapped within this nightmare. Your mission is simple but gruelling: find a way to escape the island before dawn breaks. You have exactly 12 hours to flee, or be consumed by the rising tide of chaotic magic and multiplying monsters.

    Meet the “Motley Crew”

    You won’t be facing the storm alone. You can tackle the corruption solo or team up in online co-op with a squad of survivors who are all—quite understandably—terrified:

    • The Iron Bucket Knight: High defence, heavy hits.
    • The Explosive Cutie: Master of area-of-effect destruction.
    • The One-Eyed Codger: A seasoned veteran with a steady aim.
    • The Money Whiz: Focuses on resource management and gadgets.
    • The Mysterious Nun: A roadside pickup with secrets and support skills.

    Gameplay: Infinite Combos & Fireworks

    What sets Pass the Fear apart is its deep weapon customisation system. Forget fixed metas; this game encourages “outrageous, exponential combos.”

    • Weapon Modding: Every pickup is a test. By combining traits, modifiers, and affixes (like Fragment, Growth, and Disruption), you can turn a basic firearm into a screen-shattering engine of destruction.
    • Massive Variety: The game boasts 4 characters, 30 weapons/parts, 170+ relics, and 22 Tarot cards to influence your run.
    • Fireworks Master: You can stack bullet trajectories to create beautiful, deadly patterns that cover the entire screen.
    • Meta-Progression: Even if you fail, you unlock deeper Character Talents and Squad Perks to make your next run stronger.

    Key Dates to Remember

    The developers are giving players plenty of chances to dive in before the full version arrives.

    EventDate
    Steam Demo LaunchFebruary 23, 2026
    Steam Next FestFebruary 2026
    Full Game ReleasePlanned for 2026

    Pro Tip: Don’t ignore the “junk” scattered across the battlefield. Collecting these fragments acts like a puzzle that slowly reveals the true story behind the island and the Witch’s Disaster.

    Wishlist Now!

    Pass the Fear is shaping up to be a standout title for 2026, offering a perfect blend of comedy, dark fantasy, and adrenaline-pumping strategy. Whether you’re building a “one-hit nuke” setup or trying to survive a DPS race with friends, the Wall of Storms is waiting.

    Check out the Pass the Fear Steam Page to play the demo on February 23 and add it to your wishlist!

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/qyab7

    #ParasGames #PlayMudStudio #demogame #roguelite #bullethell #PasstheFear #Steam #SteamNextFest #darkfantasy #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #videogames

  • Gear Up, Operative: Galactic Vault Blasts onto Steam March 10!

    Gear Up, Operative: Galactic Vault Blasts onto Steam March 10!

    Mark your calendars and prime your magazines. Indie developer MeepMeep Games has officially confirmed that their debut title, Galactic Vault, is set to launch on PC via Steam on March 10, 2026.

    If you’ve been looking for a high-octane shooter that rewards both lightning-fast reflexes and mad-scientist levels of weapon customisation, your mission starts next month.

    The Mission: Loot, Shoot, Repeat

    In Galactic Vault, you step into the boots of a former VOLT (Vault Operations & Lost Tech) operative. In a dystopian future where mega-corporations hoard the galaxy’s most advanced technology, your job is simple: break into high-security vaults, steal the tech back, and survive long enough to use it.

    As a fast-paced FPS roguelite, every run is a gamble. You’ll navigate procedurally generated vaults filled with vertical arenas designed for stylish movement—think sliding, dashing, and double-jumping through swarms of hostile drones and “brainwashed psychos.”

    The Hook: Modular Gunplay

    The real star of the show is the dynamic weapon system. Unlike shooters, where you just find a “Level 5 Rifle,” Galactic Vault lets you build your arsenal on the fly.

    • Endless Synergies: After clearing rooms, you choose attachments that fundamentally change how your gun behaves.
    • Total Transformation: You can modify a standard pistol into a high-impact shotgun or tweak an SMG into a semi-automatic sniper.
    • Devastating Abilities: Boost your firepower with under-barrel launchers or unique movement-based perks that reward aggressive play.

    Key Features at Launch

    • High-Speed Movement: The game emphasises “flow,” encouraging you to use the environment for vertical advantages and sliding kills.
    • Formidable Foes: From relentless tank chargers to screen-filling bosses, each vault tests the limits of your custom-built weapons.
    • Steam Workshop Integration: Feeling creative? The game features a built-in vault editor, allowing you to design your own levels and share them with the community.

    Can’t Wait? Try the Demo!

    If March 10 feels too far away, MeepMeep Games already has a playable demo available on Steam. It’s a great way to get a feel for the movement and start experimenting with the early-game weapon mods.

    Pro-Tip: Keep an eye on the “Epic Combos”—stacking specific elemental upgrades can lead to some truly chaotic (and satisfying) room-clearing effects.

    Galactic Vault is shaping up to be a must-play for fans of Doom Eternal, Roboquest, or Risk of Rain. Be sure to Wishlist it now to be ready for the drop!

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/0qRrd

    #MeepMeepGames #GalacticVault #scifi #fps #PC #Steam #Roguelite #SteamNextFest #demogame #gameplay #games #gaming #gamers #videogames