TECHMASH

Tag: #SteamDeck

  • Return of an Arcade Legend: Tony Barnes Launches VectaGuard, His First Solo Game in Over 30 Years!

    Return of an Arcade Legend: Tony Barnes Launches VectaGuard, His First Solo Game in Over 30 Years!

    Retro gaming enthusiasts and indie action fans, take note! Industry veteran Tony Barnes—the creative mind behind classic hits spanning four decades and recipient of the prestigious Jerry Lawson Lifetime Achievement Award—has officially released VectaGuard.

    Marking the debut title from his independent studio RetroNinja Games, VectaGuard is Barnes’ first solo-developed title in more than thirty years. Now available on Steam (for Windows PC and Steam Deck), this fast-paced arcade shooter delivers a masterclass in high-octane, score-chasing nostalgia built with modern precision.

    Back to the Roots of Pure Gameplay

    Having contributed to over 100 shipped titles across major gaming giants like Electronic Arts, Rockstar Games, and Crystal Dynamics (with iconic credits including Desert Strike, Strider (2014), and Medal of Honor), Barnes stepped away from the blockbuster AAA grind to return to where it all began: pure, unadulterated arcade action.

    Solo-crafted over nine months—with Barnes hand-building everything from the code and game design to the glowing visuals and pulse-pounding synthwave soundtrack—VectaGuard is a love letter to the golden era of arcade gaming.

    “The games that inspired me as a kid were simple pure gameplay; easy to learn, hard to master, impossible to put down,” says Barnes. “Creating solo again has been incredibly rewarding, and VectaGuard is the product of that. It’s my tribute to the games that made me want to become a developer to begin with.”

    What is VectaGuard?

    Inspired by coin-op and retro classics like Defender, Gravitar, Uridium, and Caverns of Mars, VectaGuard puts players in the cockpit of a VectaGuard assault craft. Your mission? Navigate glowing subterranean caverns, rescue trapped colonists, and dismantle hostile space pirate outposts across the galaxy.

    Key Features Include:

    • Stunning 2.5D Vector Visuals: A sleek, glowing wireframe aesthetic that blends classic vector cabinet vibes with modern particle effects and fluid performance.
    • Stackable Weapon Upgrades: Power up your assault craft with devastating lasers, tri-fire shots, and screen-clearing firepower.
    • Pure Score-Chasing & Replayability: Built for the “just one more run” mentality, featuring cross-platform global leaderboards to test your skills against players worldwide.
    • Dynamic Synthwave Soundtrack: An energetic, thumping OST designed to sync seamlessly with the fast-paced action.
    • Steam Deck Verified Playability: Full controller support tuned for handheld and desktop arcade action alike.

    A New Chapter for RetroNinja Games

    Founded in 2020, RetroNinja Games was created to give Barnes an unrestricted creative playground focusing on mechanics-first, visceral action experiences. With VectaGuard, RetroNinja isn’t chasing fleeting mainstream gaming trends—it’s giving retro and action gamers exactly what they crave: hand-crafted, tightly tuned gameplay with genuine soul.

    Whether you’re a long-time fan of vector arcade classics or an indie shooter aficionado looking for your next high-score addiction, VectaGuard is a must-play.

    Grab It Today!

    VectaGuard is out now on Steam for PC and Steam Deck. A free playable demo is also available if you want to test your piloting skills before jumping into the fire.

    Head over to Steam, add VectaGuard to your wishlist, and jump into the leaderboard battle today!

    Find out more here

    #VectaGuard #RetroNinjaGames #TonyBarnes #IndieGame #ArcadeShooter #Shmup #RetroGaming #SteamDeck #PCGaming #TechMash #GamingNews #VectorGraphics

  • Slither Into Full Release: ‘Scales of Silence’ Leaves Early Access for Steam v1.0 Launch!

    Slither Into Full Release: ‘Scales of Silence’ Leaves Early Access for Steam v1.0 Launch!

    If you’ve ever missed the good old days of local couch multiplayer chaos, independent studio Aggro Games has just delivered the ultimate nostalgia trip with a modern twist. Following a swift and successful one-month stint in Early Access, Scales of Silence has officially shed its test skin and slithered into its full Version 1.0 launch on Steam!

    Developed solo by indie dev Cinder under Aggro Games, Scales of Silence takes the classic arcade formula of Snake and transforms it into an intense, action-packed local party game that’s equal parts competitive, strategic, and downright chaotic.

    Here is everything you need to know about the v1.0 milestone and why your next game night needs this title.

    What is Scales of Silence?

    At its core, Scales of Silence reimagines retro Snake mechanics into a high-stakes, shared-screen arena battle. But forget instant deaths upon collision—this game introduces a clever Shrink Mechanic where “length is your life.”

    Taking a hit doesn’t knock you out immediately; instead, it chips away at your tail. Your job is to stay longer than your opponents, grind them down, and steal the win. Shorter snakes are nimble and hard to corner, while massive snakes dominate the arena floor but make for bigger targets.

    Key Features Packed Into Version 1.0

    The 1.0 release expands the initial Early Access build into a feature-packed party title:

    • Massive 8-Player Local Multiplayer: Clear the couch! Up to 8 players can battle on a single screen with zero setup hassle. Support extends to gamepads, shared keyboards (WASD, arrows, numpads), or mixed setups so nobody gets left out.
    • 500 Campaign Levels: Play solo or team up in a 2-player local co-op story mode spanning 10 distinct biomes—from sight-choking forests and freezing tundras to dangerous, pitch-black volcanoes.
    • 30 Playable Serpents & 20 Boss Battles: Unlock a roster of distinct snakes categorised by speed, acceleration, and growth traits (from Speed Demons to heavy Tanks). Beat bosses in the campaign to recruit them into your playable lineup.
    • Four Diverse Battle Modes: Customise the action with Score Battle, Timed Match, Snake Royale, and Endless Classic.
    • Zero Microtransactions & Offline Play: Pay once and get the complete experience. No accounts, no online requirements, and full support for lower-spec PCs and Steam Deck.

    A Snake Game with… Lore?

    Surprisingly, Scales of Silence packs a dark, atmospheric story underneath its frantic arcade exterior. Players uncover an ancient conflict between two serpent factions—The Order and The Fangs—while fending off a mysterious creeping darkness known as The Writhing.

    Ready to Play?

    Whether you’re looking for a quick single-player high-score run or an eight-player couch showdown with friends, Scales of Silence is available right now on Steam for Windows, macOS, and Linux/Steam Deck.

    Grab your controllers, call your crew, and see who truly rules the arena floor!

    Find out more here

    #ScalesOfSilence #IndieGames #SteamRelease #CouchCoOp #AggroGames #IndieDev #GamingNews #TechMash #PCGaming #SnakeGame #LocalMultiplayer #SteamDeck

  • Time-Travel, Chinchillas, and Disney Magic: LIFTED Launches Today on Steam!

    Time-Travel, Chinchillas, and Disney Magic: LIFTED Launches Today on Steam!

    Get ready to hit the top floor of time travel! LIFTED, the whimsical and cinematic 2.5D puzzle-platforming adventure from Adventure Works and former Disney Imagineer Jeffrey Ashbrook, has officially landed on PC via Steam today!

    If you’ve been itching for a feel-good, ’80s-inspired buddy comedy that feels like a Saturday morning cartoon crossed with Indiana Jones and Back to the Future, your next gaming obsession has arrived.

    What’s LIFTED All About?

    In LIFTED, you take on the role of Ari Buktu—a high school slacker who just wanted a little bit of extra credit. Instead, he gets swept into an eccentric, love-fueled scheme cooked up by his physics teacher, Professor Raventhorpe.

    The Professor’s latest invention? The Anytime Elevator—a time-travel machine where floor numbers correspond to years in history. Want to visit pirate-infested Tortuga in 1712? Punch in Floor 1712! Want to search for lost ancient treasure in Ancient Egypt? There’s a button for that too.

    Joined by Julius, the Professor’s trusty (and arguably most competent) pet chinchilla, Ari must swing, climb, and puzzle his way across historic eras to retrieve lost artefacts—all while dodging rival tomb raiders and chaotic avalanches.

    Disney Pedigree Meets Classic Platforming

    Founder and game director Jeffrey Ashbrook brings years of experience as a Disney Imagineer (having worked on iconic attractions like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run). That theme-park pedigree shines bright in LIFTED.

    Expect:

    • Cinematic Set Pieces: High-stakes chase sequences, dynamic environmental hazards, and ride-like action beats.
    • Wholesome Puzzle-Platforming: Fluid movement, clever physics puzzles, and satisfying exploration built for players of all ages.
    • Top-Tier Voice Acting: Featuring lively performances from Joe Gaudet (Ari), Ray O’Hare (Professor Raventhorpe), and Evan Widjaja (Julius).
    • Pure Nostalgia: A heartwarming homage to classic 1980s blockbuster cinema and golden-era sidescrollers.

    Platforms & Availability

    • Out Today (PC / Steam): Fully optimised for controllers and verified/great on the Steam Deck, Windows, and macOS!
    • Console Release: Gamers on Nintendo Switch 2 and PlayStation 5 won’t have to wait long—console ports are currently in development and will arrive at a later date.

    Whether you’re looking for an upbeat solo adventure or a delightful game to play with the family, LIFTED delivers a fresh, charming escape from the gloom. Head over to Steam today, jump into the Anytime Elevator, and let the time-travelling heist begin!

    Find out more here

    #LIFTED #LiftedGame #IndieDev #GamingNews #SteamRelease #TechMash #PuzzlePlatformer #DisneyImagineer #AdventureWorks #PCGaming #SteamDeck #NintendoSwitch2 #PS5

  • Command Three, Survive Thousands: Luminas: Parasite Reign Hits Steam Early Access This July!

    Command Three, Survive Thousands: Luminas: Parasite Reign Hits Steam Early Access This July!

    The indie roguelite scene is about to get a massive dose of magical chaos. Athens-based developer SOTO Game Studio has officially announced that its highly anticipated debut title, Luminas: Parasite Reign, will launch into Steam Early Access on July 24th, 2026.

    If you’ve been craving a fresh spin on the “bullet heaven” horde-survivor genre, this voxel-art adventure is definitely one to add to your wishlist.

    When Vampire Survivors Meets Pokémon Strategy

    While the market has seen plenty of single-character auto-shooters recently, Luminas: Parasite Reign shakes up the formula by throwing party-based tactical squad building into the mix. Instead of controlling a solitary lone wolf, you’ll lead a team of up to three supernatural, magical creatures—known as Luminas—simultaneously.

    Your mission? Defend the vibrant, voxel world of Solaris Land from an onslaught of corrupting, monstrous parasites.

    Key Features Landing in Early Access:

    • Build Your Dream Team: Choose from 8 distinct Luminas at launch (including adorable powerhouses like Pyropeep the dragon and Shelly the turtle).
    • Synergy & Combos: With 64 unique elemental spells and over 90 items of treasure to equip, you can craft specific archetypes—from glass-cannon DPS squads to tanky, unkillable support builds. Certain Lumina pairs can even combine their abilities to unleash secret, devastating combo attacks.
    • Deep Meta-Progression: Each creature features its own dedicated skill tree, allowing you to fine-tune your playstyle between runs.
    • Control the Corruption: The Early Access launch features 3 distinct biomes and 8 unique bosses. Once you master the basics, you can jack up the “Corruption” levels to alter gameplay rules, expand enemy rosters, shift camera perspectives, and push your skills to the absolute limit.

    “We’re a small team of three friends working at an independent digital agency in Greece… Born from a mix of curiosity, late-night design talks, and a shared love for roguelites.” > — SOTO Game Studio

    Steam Deck Ready on Day One

    Great news for handheld gamers: SOTO Game Studio has confirmed that Luminas: Parasite Reign is already fully optimised for the Steam Deck. Handheld playtesters have reported a locked, buttery-smooth 90 FPS with perfectly scaled UI text.

    The developer notes that player feedback during the Early Access phase will actively shape the road map—directly influencing future modes, maps, new Luminas, and boss mechanics.

    Mark your calendars for July 24th, head over to Steam, and get Luminas: Parasite Reign wishlisted today!

    Find out more here

    #LuminasParasiteReign #SOTOGameStudio #IndieGames #SteamEarlyAccess #Roguelite #BulletHeaven #HordeSurvivor #GamingNews #PCGaming #SteamDeck

  • Don’t Touch That Dial: Tequila Works Veterans Reveal Spooky New Title ‘Tuned In’

    Don’t Touch That Dial: Tequila Works Veterans Reveal Spooky New Title ‘Tuned In’

    The indie gaming landscape just got a major jolt of adrenaline. Vercors Games, a newly formed boutique studio based in Madrid, has officially broken cover to announce its debut title: Tuned In.

    If the studio’s name doesn’t ring a bell yet, the pedigree behind it certainly will. Vercors Games features a powerhouse core team composed of senior staff from Tequila Works—the brilliant minds responsible for atmospheric hits like RIME, GYLT, and Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story. If that wasn’t enough star power, they’ve also recruited seasoned industry talent from Airship Syndicate and Blizzard Entertainment.

    With a pedigree like that, expectations were always going to be high, and their first teaser does not disappoint.

    A Shifting Anthology of Nightmares

    Vercors Games dropped the curtain on Tuned In via a mysterious, deeply unsettling short video hosted on their newly launched Kickstarter pre-campaign page. Check out the teaser below:

    The premise is pure, unfiltered psychological dread. In Tuned In, players find themselves trapped by a dark, malevolent entity inside a cursed television broadcast. To survive, you must navigate a sinister lineup of puzzles, endure shifting layers of horror, and make impossible, branching choices.

    The core gameplay centres around a fascinatingly tactile mechanic: mastering the controls of an old-school cathode-ray tube (CRT) television to alter the broadcast. As you play, the boundaries of reality and the television signal begin to warp and bleed into one another. You’ll manipulate the dials to encounter, embody, and attempt to save different survivors across an interconnected narrative.

    From Gritty Slashers to Folk Horror

    Rather than sticking to a single flavour of fear, Vercors Games is building Tuned In as an ever-shifting anthology. Each chapter draws from a completely different horror sub-genre, giving every segment a distinct visual and atmospheric identity.

    The studio has promised everything from the gritty, heavy-ink shadows reminiscent of classic 80s slasher films to the muted, grainy, slow-burn textures of atmospheric folk horror. The entire experience is bound together by a gorgeous, hand-drawn graphic novel art style.

    Want to Play It Early?

    While the full game is slated for a 2027 release on Steam and Steam Deck, you won’t have to wait that long to get a taste of the nightmare.

    Vercors Games has announced that anyone who signs up early on their [Kickstarter Pre-Campaign Page] will receive exclusive, free access to a playable prologue of the game, which is set to drop very shortly.

    Between the pedigree of the developers and the brilliant, retro-tv framing device, Tuned In is instantly rocketing to the top of our “ones to watch” list. Head over to their Kickstarter page to secure your prologue access before the broadcast goes live!

    Find out more here

    #GamingNews #TunedIn #VercorsGames #IndieDev #HorrorGames #TequilaWorks #SteamDeck #Kickstarter #GamingCommunity #TechMash

  • Full Steam Ahead: Rail Estate Pulls into Steam this July with Massive Upgrades!

    Full Steam Ahead: Rail Estate Pulls into Steam this July with Massive Upgrades!

    Tycoon fans, grab your conductor hats. Swiss indie studio Holonautic—the brilliant minds typically known for pushing boundaries in the VR space—has officially announced the release date for its highly anticipated first “flat-screen” title.

    Mark your calendars: Rail Estate is officially arriving on Steam on July 16th, 2026!

    If you’ve been following the game’s development, you know it was initially revealed earlier this year as a fast-paced, multiplayer-first experience. Think Ticket to Ride meets Power Grid, but live, cutthroat, and packed with high-stakes blind auctions. However, Holonautic hasn’t just been sitting back; they have used the time leading up to launch to massively expand the scope of the game.

    Here is a breakdown of the massive new features pulling into the station this July.

    What’s New in the Final Track?

    Holonautic has loaded the launch version with a massive haul of new content based on community feedback, transforming it into a complete real-time strategy package.

    • A Full Single-Player Campaign: No internet? No problem. If you want to hone your skills before taking on real opponents, the game now features a robust single-player mode. You’ll tackle a variety of strategic scenarios and face off against a merciless cast of AI rivals to claim your tycoon crown.
    • Top-to-Bottom Visual Redesign: The entire game has undergone a major graphical overhaul. Expect polished, vibrant visuals that bring your burgeoning transportation empire to life.
    • New Cargo Hauling System: Managing passengers is one thing, but the new cargo system adds a whole new layer of economic depth. You’ll need to carefully balance speed, capacity, and resource management to keep your profits climbing.
    • Fresh Biomes & Dynamic Terrain: You’ll be building across procedurally generated world maps featuring brand-new biomes. Every map forces you to adapt your strategy to the layout of the land, meaning no two matches will ever play the same.
    • Full Steam Deck Support: For tycoons on the move, Holonautic confirmed that you’ll be able to manage your multi-million-dollar rail network right from the palm of your hand.

    Cutthroat Capitalism on the Living Grid

    At its core, Rail Estate challenges you and up to seven other players to build the country’s most profitable transportation business. You will outbid opponents in tense blind auctions to secure lucrative routes, upgrade your trains and stations to maximise revenue, and intentionally create tactical bottlenecks to sabotage your rivals.

    As one early playtester famously put it, “It’s truly a capitalist’s wet dream game. It’s very cutthroat and so true to life.”

    The Verdict: Whether you are a hardcore fan of economic simulators or looking for a fast-paced 20-minute strategy showdown with friends, Rail Estate is shaping up to be an absolute must-play this summer.

    Wishlist It Today!

    The wait is almost over. Head over to Steam right now to add Rail Estate to your wishlist so you’re ready to dominate the rail economy the second it drops on July 16th.

    Find out more here

    #Techmash #RailEstate #Holonautic #SteamGames #PCGaming #IndieDev #TycoonGames #GamingNews #StrategyGames #SteamDeck

  • Seven Strangers, One Collapsed Cave: Sci-Fi Mystery Visual Novel ‘Advent: Dawn’ Drops This July

    Seven Strangers, One Collapsed Cave: Sci-Fi Mystery Visual Novel ‘Advent: Dawn’ Drops This July

    If your idea of a perfect gaming session involves psychological tension, intricate branching narratives, and questioning whether your closest companion is lying straight to your face, then add this to your wishlist immediately.

    Indie developer Spire Games (the brilliant minds behind SYNESTHESIA and The VII Enigma) has officially announced the release date for their highly anticipated psychological sci-fi mystery visual novel, Advent: Dawn. Mark your calendars: the descent begins on Monday, July 20, 2026.

    The Setup: Trust No One Underground

    Set in the year 2066, Advent: Dawn puts you in the shoes of Dr. Atlas Everly, a neuroscientist embarking on what should have been a routine research expedition on a remote island. Things go sideways fast when an unexpected cave collapse traps Dr. Everly deep underground with six complete strangers.

    As the group desperately searches for a way out, the situation spirals from a simple survival crisis into a psychological nightmare. Tensions fracture, paranoia mounts, and the cave itself begins to reveal signs of a deeper, far more disturbing truth. Within a labyrinth of living crystals, you’ll find ancient symbolism, mythological undertones, and a lingering, terrifying suspicion: this collapse was no accident.

    “Our goal was to create a mystery that stays with players long after they have completed the game. Every choice carries emotional weight, and the line between reality and perception slowly begins to fracture.” > — Spire Games

    Inspired by the Classics, Built for Mystery Solvers

    Fans of elite visual novels like Zero Escape, Steins;Gate, Umineko, and Ever17 will feel right at home here. Spire Games is leaning heavily into immersive, thought-provoking storytelling with a pure visual novel structure enhanced by interactive mechanics.

    Here is what you can look forward to when you dive in:

    • An Interactive Flowchart Map: No need to stress over missing a narrative branch. The game features an interactive flowchart that allows you to freely jump back to crucial turning points, test out new theories, and unlock hidden paths.
    • Decisions with Real Weight: Pursue multiple character routes, each uncovering a different piece of the overarching lie.
    • The “True” Ending: The game boasts a built-in narrative structure where the multiple endings layer upon one another, culminating in a final, climactic revelation.
    • Environmental Puzzles: Solve riddles and light puzzles completely woven into the core mystery of the cave.
    • Immersive Production: Key scenes feature voice acting (complete with mouth animations) and an original, atmosphere-drenched soundtrack by composer Caleb Coles.

    Depending on your reading style, you can expect a methodical playthrough to clock in around 16 to 22 hours, making it a meaty sci-fi mystery to sink your teeth into this summer. Plus, while it shares a universe with The VII Enigma, it is a completely standalone title—no prior homework required.

    Release Details

    Advent: Dawn officially launches on Monday, July 20, 2026. True to indie-friendly form, it will be available globally for PC via Steam, Linux, and Mac (and yes, it’s fully compatible with the Steam Deck for all your handheld, dark-room mystery-solving needs).

    Head over to Steam to check out the trailer and add it to your wishlist today. Will you unravel the mystery before the cave unravels you?

    Find out more here

    #VisualNovels #AdventDawn #SpireGames #SciFiGaming #IndieDev #PCGaming #SteamDeck #GamingNews #MysteryGames

  • Two Players, One Mech: Knifing Mantis Unveils Chaos-Driven ‘Split Circuit Arena’

    Two Players, One Mech: Knifing Mantis Unveils Chaos-Driven ‘Split Circuit Arena’

    If your co-op gaming sessions don’t involve enough screaming, arguing, and unintentional sabotage, indie developer Knifing Mantis has just the antidote. The studio has officially unveiled Split Circuit Arena, an early-stage, physics-driven co-op arena combat game heading to PC via Steam—with official Steam Deck support locked in as a development target.

    Forget sweaty competitive metas and toxic matchmaking. Split Circuit Arena is a PvE experience entirely built around shared chaos, communication, and completely uncoordinated mechanical warfare.

    Two Drivers, One Wheel (Literally)

    The central hook of Split Circuit Arena is beautifully simple yet deliberately infuriating: two players must pilot a single combat robot together.

    Instead of splitting roles by driver and gunner, the controls are split right down the middle of the machine. One player commands the left side of the robot (including its wheel and left-mounted weapons), while the other player has sole control over the right side.

    Want to drive in a straight line? You and your partner need to apply the exact same amount of gas. Want to turn left? Your partner needs to back off while you accelerate. Want to jump or execute an attack? You both need to hit the button at the exact same millisecond. Even the most basic navigation turns into a frantic boardroom meeting in the middle of a warzone.

    Pure Physics-Driven Mayhem

    Once you manage to move, you’ll have to survive. The game dumps players into hostile arenas to face off against smart, aggressive AI-controlled rival bots.

    Rather than relying on artificial stats or gear scores, combat is entirely physics-driven. Players will have to coordinate in real time to ram, shove, flip, and smash through opponents. The environment itself is just as lethal, packed with hazards like rotating weapons, slamming traps, and fire pits that you can either push your enemies into, or accidentally drive yourself into because your partner panicked.

    Couch Co-Op and Handheld Play

    Knifing Mantis is building the game with flexibility in mind. Players will be able to team up locally for classic couch co-op or connect online to test the limits of their friendships remotely.

    Crucially for handheld enthusiasts, the developers have already stated that Steam Deck support is a core target for development, meaning you’ll be able to take this beautifully uncoordinated death machine on the go.

    The project is currently in its early prototype stage, with the dev duo continuing to refine the physics, damage models, enemy behaviour, and level hazards. If you want to check out the initial trailer or add the game to your wishlist, the official Steam page is live now.

    Find out more here

    #SplitCircuitArena #KnifingMantis #IndieGames #CoOpGaming #PCGaming #SteamDeck #GamingNews #TechMash

  • Flip, Nudge, and Destroy: Roguelike Pinball Sensation ‘Cult of PiN’ Locks In August Release Date

    Flip, Nudge, and Destroy: Roguelike Pinball Sensation ‘Cult of PiN’ Locks In August Release Date

    Move over Balatro and Peglin—there is a new heavy-hitting indie synergy addiction on the horizon, and it’s taking us straight back to the golden era of arcade cabinets and Windows 3D Pinball (Space Cadet).

    Independent developer KennyMakesGames has officially announced that Cult of PiN, the highly anticipated arcade pinball roguelike, will launch globally on Steam on August 10th, 2026. The announcement drops alongside an explosive new Release Date Trailer showcasing the game’s chaotic, high-intensity gameplay.

    Check out the official Release Date Trailer below:

    Pinball Physics Meets Modern Deckbuilding

    If you think this is just your standard high-score chaser, think again. Cult of PiN flips the classic genre on its head by turning pinball tables into battlefields. Instead of simply keeping the ball alive for points, your ball deals actual damage to the bumpers it strikes.

    Your goal? Demolish the handcrafted 3D tables, shatter cursed bumpers, and survive intense, gravity-defying showdowns against biomechanical Boss Bumpers.

    The real magic happens between rounds. Over a successful public demo campaign that has already captured the attention of over 120,000 players, the game has proven that its rogue-lite mechanics are incredibly deep. Players can draft from an expanding pool of over 130 unique upgrades, Glyphs, and Blessings to scale their damage multipliers into absolute absurdity.

    Key Features At A Glance:

    • True Build Synergy: Mix and match over 100 Glyphs to create game-breaking combos that turn your ball into a weapon of mass destruction.
    • 8 Playable Balls: Master distinct mechanics, specialised passive abilities, and powerful “Rituals” to trigger table-wide chaos.
    • Hand-Crafted 3D Tables: Discover 4 beautifully stylised, hand-drawn tables featuring hidden bonus zones, unique layouts, and unpredictable table mutations.
    • High-Intensity Sessions: Designed for quick 15-to-20-minute runs across 7 distinct difficulty levels, keeping the gameplay loop endlessly fresh.

    Play Anywhere: Full Steam Deck & Cross-Platform Support

    In a massive win for handheld gaming enthusiasts, KennyMakesGames has confirmed that Cult of PiN will launch with full native support for PC, Mac, Linux, and the Steam Deck.

    The game has been completely optimised for high-framerate portability, featuring native controller mapping and smooth performance built precisely with the Steam Deck in mind. Whether you are nudging your ball on a desktop or flipping targets on your morning commute, the tactile satisfaction travels with you.

    Pricing and Availability

    Cult of PiN will officially hit Steam on August 10th, 2026, for an incredibly reasonable $14.99 / £11.79 / €12.75. Even better news for early adopters: the game will feature a 15% discount during its launch week.

    If you can’t wait until August to start smashing tables, you can head over to Steam right now to try out the newly updated, heavily localised public demo and add the game to your wishlist.

    Find out more here

    #CultOfPiN #IndieGames #SteamDeck #GamingNews #Pinball #Roguelike #PCGaming #MacGaming #LinuxGaming #TechMash

  • Tiny Wheels, Big Secrets: Co-Op Adventure ‘WheelMates’ Drops Updated Demo Ahead of September PC Launch!

    Tiny Wheels, Big Secrets: Co-Op Adventure ‘WheelMates’ Drops Updated Demo Ahead of September PC Launch!

    If you’ve ever looked at your living room furniture and thought, “I could definitely do a sick flip off that bookshelf,” developer Firevolt has the perfect game for you.

    Revealed during the Future Games Show, the highly anticipated co-op adventure WheelMates has officially locked in its PC release date. Ready a fresh set of batteries, because this miniature, micro-sized journey is zooming onto Steam on Monday, 7 September.

    Even better news? You don’t have to wait until autumn to get behind the wheel. To celebrate Steam Next Fest, Firevolt has just deployed a freshly updated demo that you can download and play right now.

    Go Off-Road, Indoors!

    In WheelMates, you and a player-two answer a distress call from an eccentric, mysteriously missing scientist. The catch? The only way to navigate his massive, puzzle-filled home laboratory is by piloting a pair of tiny RC cars.

    This isn’t a racing game—it’s a true, collaborative physics playground inspired by classic RC games like Re-Volt and modern co-op masterclasses. You’ll need to work in tandem to drop vases from the kitchen table, whiz under the sofa, and turn mundane household appliances into epic stunt ramps.

    Co-Op over Competition: WheelMates features zero timers and no pressure to rush. It’s entirely focused on shared problem-solving, letting you and your co-driver uncover the house’s mysteries at your own preferred pace.

    What’s New in the Steam Next Fest Demo?

    Firevolt has listened closely to player feedback, packing this latest demo with massive quality-of-life upgrades:

    • Steam Deck Support: The demo now features full Steam Deck optimisation, making it absolutely perfect for a couch co-op night with a friend.
    • Upgraded Driving & Camera Controls: Expect much smoother handling options to make your RC car drift exactly the way you want, plus new camera controls (including a free camera) for a better view of the great indoors.
    • The Journal Feature: A brand-new story tracker that logs the clues you scan and collect throughout the house, helping you piece together the mystery of the professor’s whereabouts.

    Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

    As you delve deeper into the house—exploring the Kitchen, Garage, and Backyard—you’ll unlock wild experimental gadgets. From rope-swinging winches to magnetic wheels that let you drive upside down on metal surfaces, the game slowly unfolds into a miniature Metroidvania.

    Best of all, when the full game launches on 7 September, it will feature a Friends Pass—meaning only one of you needs to own the game for both of you to play online together.

    Head over to Steam, grab a partner, and test drive the updated demo today!

    Find out more here

    #WheelMates #Firevolt #SteamNextFest #FutureGamesShow #CoOpGames #IndieGames #GamingNews #PCGaming #SteamDeck #TechMash

  • From Trash to Cash: Picker Magnate Simulator Announced for Q4 2026

    From Trash to Cash: Picker Magnate Simulator Announced for Q4 2026

    Ever looked at a dusty piece of junk at a car boot sale and thought, “I could flip that for a massive profit”? Well, your hyper-specific dream of becoming a thrift shop titan is about to become a virtual reality. Solo developer Yuliy Oneshko and S-Grade Games have officially announced Picker Magnate Simulator, a single-player life simulation game that challenges you to build a resale empire from the absolute ground up.

    Scheduled to launch in Q4 2026, the game is currently cooking for PC (Windows) and Linux, including full support for SteamOS—meaning you’ll be able to hustle on the go via the Steam Deck.

    What is Picker Magnate Simulator?

    If you enjoy the micromanagement of shop simulators mixed with the rewarding loop of open-ended life sims, this one should be firmly on your radar.

    You don’t start out as a high-end antique dealer. Instead, you begin your journey with nothing but an empty market stall and an eye for a bargain. Your goal? Buy up junk in bulk, hunt down rare hidden treasures, refurbish your finds, and slowly transform that humble little stand into a thriving, world-class thrift shop.

    Key Features to Expect:

    • Complete Shop Management: You are the boss. You’ll design your store layout from scratch, decide on your product mix (from everyday bric-a-brac to high-value collectables), hire staff, and choose exactly how to reinvest your hard-earned profits.
    • Hands-on Item Refurbishment: Buying inventory is only half the battle. You’ll sort your hauls by material and condition, and either roll up your sleeves to repair appliances and furniture yourself or outsource the tedious labour to your workers. You can even craft unique handmade items to sell at a premium.
    • RPG-Style Character Progression: You aren’t just a disembodied shop manager; you’re on the ground doing the dirty work. Players can level up character skills like strength, speed, and bargaining. Higher stats mean you can carry more weight, move faster, and aggressively negotiate better prices to maximise your margins.
    • Vehicle Ownership: Tired of breaking your virtual back hauling heavy furniture across town? Save up your cash and buy your own transport to scale up your operation and hit up distant suppliers.

    A Proven Simulator Track Record

    While indie simulators are a dime a dozen these days, Picker Magnate Simulator comes with a promising pedigree. Developer Yuliy Oneshko has already found solid success in the quirky management space, having previously developed Trailer Park Tycoon: Raccoon Ranch and the popular Dog Brew, which has shifted over 25,000 units on Steam.

    With localised interface and subtitle support for 30 languages right at launch, S-Grade Games is clearly aiming for a global audience of bargain hunters.

    If you want to secure your spot in the resale racket, Picker Magnate Simulator is already available to wishlist on Steam ahead of its late 2026 release window.

    Source – https://s.team/a/4256670

    #SimulationGames #IndieGames #PickerMagnateSimulator #GamingNews #SteamDeck

  • Demonschool: A Must-Play Blend of Tactics, Spooks, and College Life!

    Demonschool: A Must-Play Blend of Tactics, Spooks, and College Life!

    Are you ready to trade in your textbooks for tactical grid battles and your late-night study sessions for demon-slaying? Then look no further than Demonschool, the captivating tactical RPG from developer Necrosoft Games and publisher Ysbryd Games. This isn’t your average high school drama—it’s a vibrant, spooky, and deeply engaging adventure that blends the best of classic tactics games with a modern, character-driven story.

    What is Demonschool?

    Imagine if a classic PlayStation 1-era tactical RPG like Final Fantasy Tactics or Disgaea had a baby with a spooky, character-focused life sim like Persona. That’s the irresistible core of Demonschool.

    You step into the shoes of Faye, the last in a line of demon hunters, who is forced to attend a college where the student body is, shall we say, a little undead. The island college is the gateway to a demonic dimension, and it’s up to Faye and her motley crew of new friends—including a fast-talking ghost, a hulking exorcist, and a mysterious masked martial artist—to keep the supernatural chaos contained.

    Why Demonschool Stands Out

    1. The Electrifying Tactical Combat

    The combat system is where Demonschool truly shines, offering a fresh, innovative take on turn-based strategy.

    • Action-Forward Movement: Unlike many grid-based games, the game emphasizes speed and flow. You plan out your entire turn—movement, attacks, and support actions—for all your characters simultaneously before hitting the “Execute” button.
    • Chaining and Synergy: The core mechanic revolves around combos. You’re encouraged to chain character actions together to unleash massive, stylish damage. For example, hitting an enemy with a status effect before a character with a damage-boosting skill attacks is the key to victory.
    • Simple, but Deep: The rules are easy to grasp, but the complexity of the enemy types and the environment ensures that every battle requires careful planning and smart positioning.

    2. A World Brimming with Style and Spook

    Demonschool is drenched in a gorgeous, distinct aesthetic that feels nostalgic yet totally unique:

    • Visuals: The game uses chunky, vibrant 3D character models that evoke the low-poly charm of the PS1 era, all set against beautifully rendered, atmospheric environments.
    • Atmosphere: The vibe is perfectly balanced between genuinely creepy horror elements and playful, often hilarious, supernatural college antics.

    3. Life at the End of the World (and Semester)

    Beyond the battlefield, the character interactions and relationship building are just as important as your tactical prowess.

    • The Life Sim Layer: Between missions, you manage Faye’s schedule, choosing what to study, who to hang out with, and what activities to pursue.
    • Deep Social Links: Spending time with your teammates builds trust and unlocks powerful Relationship Skills—new passive abilities or devastating combo attacks that are vital in combat. This seamlessly ties the narrative and gameplay together, making every friendship you forge feel meaningful.

    Tips for Starting Your Demon Hunt

    • Focus on Relationships Early: Prioritize hanging out with your core team. Those unlocked Relationship Skills will be far more valuable than a few extra points in a stat from studying.
    • Experiment with Combos: Don’t be afraid to try different action chains in combat. The system encourages creativity. Look for opportunities to set up big damage with status effects and positioning.
    • Check the Battlefield: Always survey the map before committing to a turn. Look for environmental hazards or objects that can be exploited for massive tactical advantage.

    The Final Grade: A+

    Demonschool is more than just a successful marriage of genres; it’s a confident, stylish, and immensely fun tactical adventure that deserves a spot in your rotation. Whether you’re a veteran of tactical RPGs or just looking for a compelling story with satisfying turn-based combat, Faye’s journey through this haunted college campus is one you won’t want to miss.

    Have you already enrolled in Demonschool? Let us know your favorite character and tactical combo in the comments below!

    Demonschool – https://necrosoftgames.com/demonschool/

    #Demonschool #NecrosoftGames #YsbrydGames #rpg #PlayStation #Xbox #NintendoSwitch #SteamDeck #PC #Steam #games #gaming #gamers #videogames