TECHMASH

Tag: #Steam

  • Neanderthal Western Action-RPG ‘ORKEN’ Launches Steam Demo and Narrative Kickstarter

    Neanderthal Western Action-RPG ‘ORKEN’ Launches Steam Demo and Narrative Kickstarter

    The world of indie gaming just got a whole lot grittier. SIXMOREVODKA and Demagog Studio (the team behind Golf Club: Nostalgia and The Cub) have officially unleashed a playable prototype demo for their highly anticipated project, ORKEN, now live on Steam.

    But this isn’t just a digital drop. Alongside the demo, the team has launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund an ambitious publishing line of novels and illustrated setting books, aiming to build a massive transmedia universe from the ground up.

    What is ORKEN?

    Described by the developers as a “Neanderthal Western,” ORKEN is a fresh take on the classic Orcs-versus-Humans conflict. You play as Coltec, a young Khar warrior searching for his missing friend in a world that feels equal parts prehistoric and frontier-rough.

    The gameplay is a punishing, methodical blend of Soulslike combat and the weighty exploration of Dragon’s Dogma. If you’ve been looking for a game that respects your intelligence while testing your reflexes, this prototype is your first real taste of the “Atman” system—a unique skill-tree mechanic represented by a rotating Totem pole.

    Art That Pops

    Visually, ORKEN is a stunner. Leveraging the world-class talent at SIXMOREVODKA (famous for their work on League of Legends and Degenesis), the game sports a bold, graphic style. It’s a striking departure from the muddy browns and greys often found in dark fantasy, opting instead for a “comic-book-in-motion” aesthetic that feels incredibly modern.

    The Kickstarter: More Than Just a Game

    The concurrent Kickstarter isn’t for the game itself, but for the ORKEN publishing line. SIXMOREVODKA is doubling down on the lore, offering:

    Premium Novels: Deep dives into the history and culture of the Khar.

    Illustrated Setting Books: Massive, coffee-table-style tomes showcasing the universe’s art.

    Narrative Expansion: Serialised fiction designed to expand the world while the game remains in development.

    “The proposition is simple: buy something that exists today, get immediate value for your support, and help us stay independent while we build something bigger.” — Marko Djurdjevic, SIXMOREVODKA

    How to Play

    The demo is available right now on Steam for both Windows and macOS (including native support for M-series chips). It’s an early proof of concept designed to gather community feedback on combat feel and story delivery.

    Check out the Steam Demo: ORKEN on Steam

    Support the Universe: ORKEN Kickstarter Campaign

    Stay tuned to TechMash for more updates as Coltec’s journey across Edom continues!

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

    #SIXMOREVODKA #DemagogStudio #playableprototypedemo #Steam #RPG #games #gaming #gamers #platformgames #gameplay #demogames #videogames #arcadegames

  • Spellcasters Chronicles Flies into Steam Early Access: Quantic Dream’s Bold Move into Multiplayer

    Spellcasters Chronicles Flies into Steam Early Access: Quantic Dream’s Bold Move into Multiplayer

    Quantic Dream, the studio famous for narrative heavyweights like Detroit: Become Human and Heavy Rain, has officially opened the portal to its latest project. Spellcasters Chronicles is now available in Early Access on Steam, and it’s a significant departure from the solo, choice-driven dramas we’ve come to expect from the French developer.

    If you’ve been looking for a fresh spin on the MOBA genre—one that swaps ground-pounding lanes for high-flying aerial combat—this might be your next obsession.

    What is Spellcasters Chronicles?

    At its core, Spellcasters Chronicles is a free-to-play, 3v3 team-based action strategy game. While it borrows the “lane and tower” DNA of classic MOBAs, it introduces several mechanical twists that set it apart:

    Aerial Freedom: Forget being tethered to the floor. Players take to the skies as powerful mages, using 360-degree flight to scout, engage, and rain down destruction.

    Strategic Deckbuilding: Instead of buying items mid-match, you build a “Spellbook” before the game starts. With over 50 spells and summons, you can tailor your loadout to be a tank, support, or glass-cannon damage dealer.

    The “Titans”: The ultimate game-changers. By filling a Titan Gauge, teams can summon skyscraper-sized entities that act as primary objective-takers to crush enemy Lifestones.

    Early Access: The “Workshop” Phase

    Quantic Dream is calling this Early Access phase an “Open Workshop.” They’ve been very vocal about the fact that this isn’t just a soft launch—it’s a collaborative development period.

    New Content Available Now:

    Two New Summons: The disruptor Siren and the heavy-hitting Rhino Rider.

    Four New Spells: Ice Ray, Poison Breath, Metamorphosis, and Holy Arrow.

    Quality of Life: Integrated Discord Social SDK for easier partying, in-game voice chat, and a revamped ranked mode.

    What’s on the Roadmap for 2026?

    The studio has already laid out a busy year for the community. Expect a major update this Spring, which will introduce:

    The Technomancer: A brand-new playable Spellcaster.

    Kamazad Arena: A fresh battlefield to master.

    Training Mode: Finally, a place to test those deck synergies without the pressure of a live match.

    Tech Specs: Can You Run It?

    Be warned: those beautiful particle effects and “hundreds of units” on screen come at a cost. The game is fairly demanding, requiring Windows 11 and some decent hardware to stay competitive.

    Final Verdict?

    It’s early days, and the “Mixed” reviews on Steam suggest there are still some technical kinks to iron out—specifically regarding stability and “reconnect” features. However, for a studio known for linear stories, this pivot into a living, breathing multiplayer world is an ambitious experiment worth watching.

    Ready to join the battle for Ashkenon? You can download

    Spellcasters Chronicles for free on Steam right now.

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

    #QuanticDream #SpellcastersChronicles #EarlyAccess #combat #Steam #games #gaming #gamers #platformgames #gameplay #demogames #videogames #arcadegames

  • Distant Shore: BRETAGNE — The Magnetic Parkour Demo You Can’t Miss

    Distant Shore: BRETAGNE — The Magnetic Parkour Demo You Can’t Miss

    If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if Faith from Mirror’s Edge stumbled into an Aperture Science lab armed with Magneto’s gauntlets, your specific (and awesome) daydream has finally arrived.

    Distant Shore: BRETAGNE has officially dropped its debut demo on Steam as part of Steam Next Fest (February 23 – March 2, 2026). Developed by a veteran team of French indie devs, this first-person physics sandbox is already making waves for its “break the level” philosophy and high-octane traversal.

    Physics as Your Playground

    In BRETAGNE, you aren’t just following a glowing red path. While there is an intended parkour trail, the game’s core mechanic—Magnetic Gauntlets—invites you to throw the rulebook out the window.

    • Manipulate Everything: You can attract, repel, bend, and even break metal structures.
    • Creative Traversal: Use magnetic forces to catapult yourself across gaps or rip down a metal sheet to create a makeshift bridge.
    • Momentum-Based Movement: The parkour feels fluid and fast, rewarding players who can chain magnetic boosts with slides and wall-runs.

    A World Under Watch

    Set in a post-apocalyptic version of the French region of Brittany (specifically the “West Zone”), the atmosphere is thick with mystery. You play as an operative searching for your missing brother in a world ravaged by climate collapse.

    But you aren’t alone. Looming in the sky is The Cloud—a sentient, ominous weather entity that tracks your every move. It’s part survival, part puzzle, and entirely immersive.

    Quick Look: The Demo Stats

    FeatureDetails
    PlaytimeApprox. 1 hour of gameplay
    PlatformPC (Steam)
    Key MechanicMagnetic physics manipulation & Parkour
    EngineUnity 6 (featuring RTX support)
    Steam EventLive now through March 2nd

    Why You Should Play It Now

    The demo isn’t just a vertical slice; it’s a challenge. The developers have included a leaderboard system, inviting speedrunners to see how much they can “break” the environment to find the fastest routes. If you enjoy the freedom of Garry’s Mod mixed with the polished movement of a modern platformer, this is a must-download.

    “We want to give players the tools to turn physics into their ultimate creative tool.” — Distant Shore Development Team

    Download the Distant Shore: BRETAGNE demo on Steam today and start bending the world to your will.

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

    #DistantShore #BRETAGNE #SteamNextFest #DistantShoreBRETAGNE #Steam #games #gaming #gamers #platformgames #gameplay #demogames #videogames

  • Chivalry Reborn: Why Legends of the Round Table is the Arthurian RPG We’ve Been Waiting For

    Chivalry Reborn: Why Legends of the Round Table is the Arthurian RPG We’ve Been Waiting For

    Forget the glossy, high-fantasy reimagining of King Arthur you’ve seen a thousand times. If you’ve ever wanted to step directly into the pages of a 13th-century illuminated manuscript—complete with the grit, the glory, and the rigid code of honour—your time has come.

    Developed by Montreal-based Artifice Studio, Legends of the Round Table is set to launch on March 31, 2026. This isn’t just another turn-based strategy game; it’s a “faithfully medieval” deep dive into the heart of chivalry.

    A Living, Breathing Manuscript

    The first thing that hits you is the visuals. The developers didn’t just go for “old-looking” graphics; they collaborated with specialists to use authentic medieval painting techniques. The result is a game that looks like a tapestry in motion.

    • Hand-Painted Art: Every environment and character is rendered using the colours, dyes, and styles available to 13th-century scribes.
    • Period Soundtrack: The atmosphere is anchored by live performances of lutes and harps, featuring the haunting, authentic vocals of Anne Azéma.

    Tactical Combat with a Chivalric Twist

    In most RPGs, “honour” is a flavour text. Here, it’s a core mechanic. The turn-based combat moves away from the typical power fantasy and forces you to think like a knight of the realm.

    1. Mounted Excellence: Unlike many RPGs where knights are just “infantry with more armour,” this game prioritizes horseback combat and thunderous lance charges.
    2. Mercy and Ransoms: You aren’t just a killing machine. You can choose to spare defeated foes for ransom—a historically accurate way for knights to fund their estates—or execute them at the cost of your reputation.
    3. Permanent Stakes: Death is final. When a knight falls, they are gone, leaving their seat at the Round Table empty for the next generation.

    Your Choices, Your Legend

    While you’ll lead icons like Lancelot, Gawain, and Percival, they aren’t static heroes. They age, evolve traits based on your decisions, and eventually leave a legacy behind.

    “We wanted to move away from the typical RPG power fantasy and instead focus on the medieval ideals of knights driven by honor and moral duty.” — Yan Pepin, Director

    Whether you’re negotiating with mercenaries over a cup of wine or deciding the fate of a traitor, every choice feeds into your Glory points, influencing your ability to gather troops for the “Great Battles” that define the era.

    Why You Should Care

    If you loved the narrative weight of The Banner Saga or the historical immersion of Pentiment, Legends of the Round Table is aiming for that same sweet spot. It’s a game where you don’t just play through a story; you author a chronicle.

    Upon finishing, the game even hints at a feature where you can see the “book” of your unique adventures—a digital testament to your choices, romances, and tragedies.

    Legends of the Round Table arrives on Steam on March 31, 2026.

    Find out more here – https://linktr.ee/ArtificeStudio

    #ArtificeStudio #medieval #RPG #LegendsoftheRoundTable #LotRT #games #gaming #gameplay #demogames #gamers #videogames #history #legend #steam #pcgames

  • Meet Your New Inner Circle: GreedFall: The Dying World Spotlights Its Companions

    Meet Your New Inner Circle: GreedFall: The Dying World Spotlights Its Companions

    With the full release of GreedFall: The Dying World just weeks away, NACON and Spiders have pulled back the curtain on the heart of any great RPG: the party. A brand-new trailer recently dropped, introducing the eight companions who will join you on your journey across the continent of Gacane.

    In this prequel—set three years before the original game—you don’t play as a noble diplomat, but as a native of Teer Fradee uprooted from your home. Survival in the “Old World” depends on who has your back, and this latest reveal shows that your crew is as diverse as they are dangerous.

    The Faces of the Journey

    The new video doesn’t just show these characters in action; it introduces the voice talent bringing them to life. Here is a look at the companions you’ll be recruiting:

    CompanionBackgroundKey Traits
    AlvidaNaut GuildRebellious, determined navigator with a strong moral compass.
    FaustaThélèmeA slick diplomat and spy from the noble courts.
    LudwigFormer SoldierSarcastic ex-soldier turned smuggler who despises pretense.
    NílanTeer FradeeThe protagonist’s childhood friend and aspiring sage.
    SafiaBridge AllianceSeasoned explorer, firearms expert, and anti-imperialist.
    ShedaTeer FradeeA fierce warrior and protector of her people’s knowledge.
    SybilleMerchant CongregationUprooted noble caught in political intrigue; initially distrustful.
    TillCoin GuardA gruff former captain seeking redemption through service.

    More Than Just Backup

    Spiders is doubling down on the “Party RPG” DNA that fans of Dragon Age and KOTOR will find familiar. These companions aren’t just AI sidekicks; they are integral to every layer of the game:

    • Direct Combat Control: You can directly control your allies in battle, utilising their unique skill trees and specialities to create a balanced tactical team.
    • Deep Relationships: Your choices matter. Depending on your actions and dialogue, companions can become your closest friends, bitter rivals, or even soulmates.
    • Personal Quests: Each character has a dedicated questline that explores their history, motivations, and the secrets they carry.

    “Every decision shapes the fate of your journey and contributes to making your adventure a truly unique story.” — Spiders Studio

    Mark Your Calendars

    The road to Gacane is almost at its end. Whether you’re looking for a tactical combat challenge or a deep narrative experience, these eight companions are ready to help you shape the future of a dying world.

    • PC (1.0 Release): March 10, 2026
    • PlayStation 5 & Xbox Series X|S: March 12, 2026

    If you’ve been playing in Early Access, get ready—the “definitive version” is just around the corner.

    Find out more here – https://greedfall2.com/en-US/

    #NACON #Spiders #RPG #GreedFall #TheDyingWorld #SteamEarlyAccess #Steam #GreedFallTheDyingWorld #PC #PlayStation #Xbox #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #videogames

  • Verses the new kind of team-based competitive sport

    Verses the new kind of team-based competitive sport

    Yesterday, Seattle-based indie studio Superfuture Syndicate (SFS) pulled back the curtain on their debut title, and it’s safe to say they aren’t playing it safe.

    Meet Verses, a “hyper-kinetic aerial joust” that aims to mash together the white-knuckle speed of high-stakes racing with the technical precision of a fighting game. Led by industry veteran Samantha Kalman (whose resume includes heavy hitters like Apex Legends and Astroneer), SFS is positioning Verses as the next great competitive team sport.

    Here is everything we know about this neon-soaked, high-flying brawler.

    What Exactly is “Aerial Jousting”?

    Forget horses and lances. In Verses, players take to the skies in what the developers describe as a cross-genre hybrid.

    Imagine the momentum and tight cornering of a futuristic racer like F-Zero, but instead of just crossing a finish line, you are using that velocity to slam into opponents. It’s a team-based sport (supporting 1–4 players) that re-imagines medieval jousting for a high-tech spectator audience.

    Key Gameplay Pillars:

    • High-Speed Racing Mechanics: Movement is paramount. You’ll need to master flight paths and acceleration to gain the upper hand.
    • Fighting Game DNA: It’s not just about bumping into people; expect depth in how you engage, parry, and strike your opponents at 300 mph.
    • Team Synergy: Designed for competitive play, the game focuses on how small teams can coordinate their “jousts” to dominate the arena.

    The Minds Behind the Syndicate

    Superfuture Syndicate was founded in 2025 with a mission to “build a better world of play.” The team is small but mighty, featuring:

    • Samantha Kalman (CEO/Game Director): Known for the cult-hit musical puzzler Sentris and work on Astroneer.
    • Izaak Moody (Art Director): Bringing a distinct, vibrant aesthetic to the “superfuture” world.
    • Anthony Carboni: Hosting the “Superfuture Zone” podcast, which will document the game’s development every two weeks.

    “Verses is the right kind of risk for us to take because it’s already fun, but it doesn’t neatly fit in any established genre.” — Samantha Kalman

    How to Play Right Now

    While Verses is officially in pre-alpha, SFS is taking a highly transparent, community-driven approach to development. You don’t have to wait for a 2027 release date to see if the hype is real.

    PathBenefit
    SteamYou can wishlist the game now to track its progress toward a full release.
    PatreonJoining the Superfuture Syndicate Patreon grants immediate playtest access to the pre-alpha builds.
    PodcastSubscribe to Superfuture Zone for behind-the-scenes stories on how the game is being built.

    Why You Should Care

    The “indie-strial” complex is currently flooded with cosy sims and Soulslikes. Verses feels like a breath of fresh, high-altitude air. It’s rare to see a studio attempt a genuine “new genre,” and with the pedigree of the SFS team, the mechanical polish is likely to be top-tier even in these early stages.

    Whether you’re a fighting game enthusiast looking for more mobility or a racing fan who wants to punch their friends, Verses is a title you need to keep on your radar.

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

    #SuperfutureSyndicate #Verses #highspeedracing #scifi #fightinggame #sport #SFS #gameplay #Steam #wishlist #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • Seclusa the casual photography sim has arrived on Steam

    Seclusa the casual photography sim has arrived on Steam

    It’s time to trade in the high-octane action for a telephoto lens and a sunset over the savanna. Studio Niente has officially released Seclusa, their ultra-relaxing wildlife photography simulator, on Steam.

    Launched on February 16, 2026, the game has already garnered a “Very Positive” reception from players looking for a “low-stakes, high-vibes” experience.

    The Vibe: Safari, Simplified

    In Seclusa, you aren’t just a photographer; you’re a guest at a secluded East African safari lodge. Forget about health bars or ticking clocks. This is a point-and-click sandbox designed for unwinding.

    • Hand-Crafted Locations: Explore scenic overlooks near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro.
    • Dynamic Nature: Photograph wildlife under shifting lighting conditions and weather—from golden hour glows to moody rainstorms.
    • A “Slow Gaming” Experience: There is no “wrong” way to play. Sit by the fire, listen to the ambient sounds of the bush, or spend hours waiting for that perfect shot of a rare animal variant.

    Key Features

    • Upgradable Gear: Earn experience to unlock camera filters, lenses, and specialised abilities like the “Processing Mode” time-of-day slider.
    • Paka the Lodge Cat: Every cosy game needs a mascot. Meet Paka, the friendly resident feline whom you can pet, customise with different fur colours, and even dress in tiny hats.
    • Beyond the Lens: When you aren’t in the field, you can head back to the lodge to solve jigsaw puzzles using the actual photos you’ve taken or collect and trade over 180 unique wildlife cards.
    • The Compendium: Track your sightings and learn about the real-world biology of the animals you encounter, including lesser-known species like the African Wild Cat and the Martial Eagle.

    Launch Details

    • Platform: PC (Steam)
    • Price: $12.99 USD
    • Launch Discount: If you grab it before March 3, 2026, you can snag it at 25% off ($9.74).
    • Steam Deck: The game is verified to run smoothly on Steam Deck, making it the perfect companion for a literal “cosy-up-in-bed” gaming session.

    Developer’s Note: Studio Niente (a two-person indie team) has already begun rolling out post-launch patches to add more wildlife animations and quality-of-life tweaks based on player feedback.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/L1KRf

    #StudioNiente #Steam #Seclusa #wildlifephotographer #safarilodge #EastAfrica #photos #wildlife #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #videogames

  • A New Breed of Hunger: Famished Demo Now Live on Steam and Itch.io

    A New Breed of Hunger: Famished Demo Now Live on Steam and Itch.io

    If you’ve been craving a horror experience that’s a little more “grotesque indie” and a little less “jump-scare factory,” it’s time to eat. British indie dev SlaughterWare—the mind behind the legendary The Insanity flash series—has officially unleashed the first playable demo for Famished.

    Set in the bleak, sun-baked sprawl of suburban Kansas, Famished isn’t just a game about being scared; it’s a descent into a very specific, very messy kind of madness.

    The Story: Meet Oatmeal Clutterbuck

    You play as Oatmeal, a bullied and intellectually impaired teenager living a life that was already pretty grim before the “guest” arrived. That guest is Whisperguts, an alien parasite that has taken up residence inside Oatmeal’s torso.

    As the parasite feeds, Oatmeal begins to feel a hunger that “normal” food can’t touch. You’ll navigate a world that feels like a distorted memory of the 90s, where the line between being a victim and becoming a predator starts to blur in the most cannibalistic way possible.

    What to Expect in the Demo

    The demo covers the opening chapter of Oatmeal’s transformation. Here’s what’s cooking:

    • Retro Vibes: The game uses a low-poly, PS1-style aesthetic that leans into the “uncanny valley” of early 3D horror.
    • Experimental Gameplay: Expect more than just walking and hiding. The demo features surreal mini-games, environmental puzzles, and a focus on psychological tension over traditional combat.
    • Dark Humour: In true SlaughterWare fashion, the horror is seasoned with a layer of pitch-black, surreal comedy. Think Stephen King meets Shenmue, but with significantly more viscera.
    • Cinematic Flair: Despite its indie roots, the game prioritises a cinematic feel with scripted sequences and a heavy, “80s-edge” soundtrack.

    “What begins as a simple, gnawing appetite slowly mutates into something far more disturbing… something else is feeding.” — SlaughterWare

    Why You Should Play It

    SlaughterWare (aka EvilKris) has been in the horror game for over 15 years. If you grew up playing high-effort Flash horror on NewGrounds, you know this developer understands how to build a lingering sense of dread without relying on cheap tricks. Famished feels like a passion project that’s been festering (in the best way) for a long time.

    How to Play

    The demo is free to download right now. The full game is slated for an Autumn 2026 release, so this is your chance to get in on the ground floor of the nightmare.

    Have you braved the Kansas suburbs yet? Let me know in the comments if Whispergut got the better of you!

    Find out more here on Steam –

    #SlaughterWare #Famished #psychological #StephenKing #SilentHill #PS2 #survival #horror #demogame #Steam #itchio #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #videogames

  • The “No Bullsh*t” FPS: Everything You Need to Know About Wraith Ops

    The “No Bullsh*t” FPS: Everything You Need to Know About Wraith Ops

    If you’ve been feeling a bit burnt out by modern shooters filled with neon skins, confusing battle passes, and movement that feels like everyone is on roller skates, Wraith Ops (formerly Project Wraith) is calling your name. Published by Team17 and developed by Grassrootz Studio, this game is a deliberate “back-to-basics” love letter to the golden era of tactical shooters like Battlefield 3 and early Call of Duty.

    The message from the devs is loud and clear: Pure infantry action. No gimmicks.

    Core Philosophy: A Return to Form

    Wraith Ops isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel; it’s trying to fix it. The game is built on a “community-first” foundation, emphasising tactical depth over monetisation. Here is what you won’t find:

    • No Battle Passes or FOMO-driven grinds.
    • No immersion-breaking cosmetics (you won’t see any pink bunny suits here).
    • No Loot Boxes or pay-to-win mechanics.

    Key Features & Gameplay

    The game focuses on snappy gunplay and objective-based combat. It’s gritty, atmospheric, and prioritises skill.

    FeatureDetails
    ArsenalOver 60 weapons at launch with realistic ballistics.
    CustomizationDeep weapon attachment system and authentic military gear.
    Damage ModelFast Time-to-Kill (TTK) where headshots are lethal and rewarded.
    ClassesThree distinct roles: Assault, Specialist, and Heavy.
    WeatherA dynamic weather system that can change the flow of a match instantly.

    Game Modes

    While the game supports larger-scale tactical play, it also offers tighter, competitive experiences:

    • Overlord (12v12): Large-scale, objective-driven warfare.
    • Arena (6v6): A high-stakes, one-life mode recently featured in the Steam Next Fest demo.
    • Gun Game & Team Deathmatch: Classic modes for those who want pure shooting practice.

    Release Date & Platforms

    After years of development and a successful rebranding in 2025, the finish line is in sight.

    Planned Launch: March 12, 2026

    Platform: PC via Steam

    The developers recently released an updated demo featuring three maps—Airfield, Mall, and Submarine—boasting nearly 900 bug fixes and tweaks based on community feedback. If you missed the demo, you can still head over to Steam to wishlist the game and keep an eye on the next playtest.

    Find out more here on Steam – https://shorturl.at/o8jAS

    #GrassrootzGames #WraithOps #ProjectWraith #combat #tactics #battles #games #gaming #gamers #gameplay #videogames #steam #pcgames

  • 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