TECHMASH

Tag: #Team17

  • Rogue Point the 4-player co-op shooter out now on Steam!

    Rogue Point the 4-player co-op shooter out now on Steam!

    The wait is officially over. The developers behind the legendary Black Mesa (the fan-made Half-Life reimagining) have finally stepped away from the resonance cascades and into a world of corporate warfare.

    Rogue Point has officially launched into Steam Early Access, and the launch trailer is every bit as tactical and chaotic as we hoped.

    The Premise: Capitalism With a Body Count

    In the world of Rogue Point, the world’s richest CEO has died, leaving a massive power vacuum. Cutthroat conglomerates aren’t fighting in boardrooms; they’re using the MERX app to order private armies like they’re ordering a pizza.

    As part of an elite vigilante squad, your job is to strike back. The trailer showcases a sleek, “back-to-basics” tactical feel that prioritises satisfying gunplay and team coordination over the bloated systems seen in many modern live-service shooters.

    Key Features at a Glance:

    • 4-Player Co-op: Built from the ground up for teamwork. You can heal, revive, and share gear with your squad.
    • Dynamic Missions: Utilising a “Parametric Design System,” the game reshapes maps (The Airport, Mall, Office, and Oilrig) to ensure no two runs feel the same.
    • Tactical Depth: It’s not just “run and gun.” You can doodle on a 3D tactical map to plan your breach, use cameras to scout, and choose between stealthy approaches or “going loud.”
    • Dead Drop System: Earn in-game currency through successful missions to buy specific loadouts, or gamble your earnings on “Dead Drops” for a chance at rare weapons and skins.

    Why the Trailer Has Us Hyped

    The Early Access Launch Trailer does a fantastic job of highlighting the game’s “Old School is New Cool” philosophy. It showcases the brutal AI of the MERX enemies—ranging from tactical shooters who use flashbangs to keep you pinned, to “berserkers” with machetes that force you to break formation.

    Unlike many modern shooters that require hundreds of hours of grinding, Rogue Point is pitching itself as a “friendslop” title—a game designed for you and your mates to jump in, have a laugh, and enjoy tight, high-stakes tactical missions without the baggage of battle passes or expensive DLC.

    Release Details

    • Developer: Crowbar Collective
    • Publisher: Team17
    • Platform: PC (Steam)
    • Price: $24.99 / £21.49 (Keep an eye out for the 15% launch discount running for the first two weeks!)

    A Note on Early Access: Crowbar Collective has stated they want to develop the game alongside the community, much like they did with Black Mesa. Expect frequent updates, new maps, and refined AI as the game moves toward its 1.0 release.

    Ready to Breach?

    If you’ve been looking for a co-op shooter that sits right in the sweet spot between the tactical realism of Ready or Not and the frantic action of classic shooters, Rogue Point might just be your new addiction.

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

    #RoguePoint #CrowbarCollective #coopshooter #steam #team17 #steamearlyaccess #scifi #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • Welcome to Hell Incorporated: Diving into the Sintopia Playtest

    Welcome to Hell Incorporated: Diving into the Sintopia Playtest

    If you’ve ever looked at a spreadsheet and thought, “This would be much more satisfying if I were also punishing the damned,” then Sintopia is the game you’ve been waiting for. Developed by Piraknights Games and published by Team17, this quirky title is currently holding a public playtest (running from February 10th to February 16th, 2026), and it is every bit as chaotic and darkly comedic as promised.

    Sintopia isn’t just a management sim; it’s a “God Game” Tycoon where you play the Administrator of Hell. Your job? Re-educate the sinful, turn a profit, and keep the Overworld from collapsing under its own corruption.

    The Dual-Layer Grind: Hell vs. The Overworld

    The most striking feature of Sintopia is its asymmetrical gameplay loop. You are constantly balancing two very different worlds:

    • The Overworld: Here, you watch over the Humus—sentient, slightly dimwitted chickpeas who go about their lives building civilisations. As a god-like figure, you can influence them with spells (like a well-placed lightning bolt or a “nudge” off a cliff) to encourage sin or thin the herd.
    • The Underworld (Hell): When a Humus dies, they head to your domain. This is where the tycoon elements kick in. You build elaborate “re-education” facilities—think Two Point Hospital meets Dungeon Keeper—to process their sins and prepare them for resurrection.

    Pro Tip: Managing your “Imployees” is half the battle. They need break rooms and fair wages, or they’ll go on strike, leaving a massive backlog of souls at the gates.

    What’s New in the February Playtest?

    The February 2026 build introduces some high-stakes mechanics that change the late-game drastically:

    FeatureDescription
    Atonement CrisesWhen sin levels get too high, “Pillars of Atonement” trigger apocalyptic events like Zombie Apocalypses or Demonic Invasions.
    Hiring DemonsInstead of just banishing demons, you can now hire them. They offer massive building boosts but demand a hefty “Hero” upkeep.
    Role ModelsNew starting archetypes that allow you to customize your management style (Merciful, Efficient, or Petty).
    The Liber AdministratumAn expanded tech tree where you unlock everything from specialist punishment rooms to more powerful god-spells.

    The Verdict: Is it Worth the Sins?

    The playtest reveals a game with a surprising amount of depth. While the early game can feel a bit like a grind—waiting for your first few Purgadollars to roll in—the complexity ramps up once you start filtering souls based on specific sins (Wrath, Greed, Gluttony) to maximise efficiency.

    The 1980s pop-culture aesthetic is a triumph. Everything from the UI to the character designs feels vibrant and tongue-in-cheek, softening the blow of, well, eternal torment.

    The Challenges:

    • UI Scaling: Steam Deck users might find the text a bit small (though the 2026 build has improved this significantly).
    • Balance: Managing the “Break Room” death spiral, where all your Imps go on break at once, is still a hurdle for new players.

    How to Join

    If you want to try your hand at bureaucratic damnation, head over to the Sintopia Steam page before February 16th. The playtest is open to everyone, featuring unlimited Prestige and no in-game time restrictions.

    Find out more here – https://sintopia-game.com/

    #Sintopia #playtest #denogame #SintopiaTheOverworld #ManageHELL #PlayGOD #PunishSINS #Steam #Team17 #PiraknightsGames #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • WARDOGS: The Next Frontier of All-Out Warfare

    WARDOGS: The Next Frontier of All-Out Warfare

    Move over, Battle Royale—WARDOGS is here to reclaim the tactical shooter throne. Published by Team17 and developed by the newly independent BULKHEAD (the creators of Battalion 1944), this 100-player FPS just dropped its announcement trailer and it’s looking like the modern successor to Battlefield we’ve been waiting for.

    What is WARDOGS?

    Inspired by the legendary Arma 3 “King of the Hill” mod, WARDOGS throws three rival teams into a massive 256km² Eastern European sandbox. Forget shrinking circles and extraction zones; here, it’s all about holding the Control Zone.

    Key Features:

    Three-Way Warfare: 100 players split into three distinct teams, creating chaotic and unpredictable frontlines.

    Cash is King: A persistent economy system where every action—revives, transports, and kills—earns you cash. This money stays with you from match to match, letting you invest in better loadouts, vehicles, and gear.

    Destructible Battlefields: Fortify buildings or level them to the ground. The terrain evolves as the fight progresses.

    Combined Arms: It’s not just boots on the ground. Expect tanks, helicopters, and jets to dominate the skies and soil.

    Realistic Pedigree: Developed on the War Dynamics Framework (Unreal Engine 5) with input from real-world ballistics and aerospace experts.

    When can you play?

    The game is slated for Steam Early Access in 2026, with a full multi-platform release (consoles) expected in 2027. If you’re tired of “hero shooters” and want a return to gritty, large-scale tactical depth, this is the one to wishlist.

    Fun Fact: The devs are working directly with Sa-Matra, the original creator of the Arma 3 mod, to ensure the soul of the gameplay remains authentic.

    Find out more here – http://www.wardogs.com/

    #WarDogs #Tactical #Warfare #FPS #SteamEarlyAccess

    #Team17 #BULKHEAD #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • Goblin Cleanup: A Hilariously Messy Good Time!

    Goblin Cleanup: A Hilariously Messy Good Time!

    Are you tired of saving the princess? Done with defeating the big bad evil guy? Do you just want to get your hands dirty with some good, honest (and incredibly messy) work? Then look no mead-swilling, gold-hoarding, dungeon-delving further than Goblin Cleanup!

    This delightful indie gem turns the typical fantasy narrative on its head. Instead of being the brave hero, you’re a humble goblin tasked with the thankless job of cleaning up the aftermath of those very heroes’ “adventures.” And let me tell you, those heroes leave a huge mess.

    What’s the Gist?

    In Goblin Cleanup, you play as a plucky goblin armed with various tools – brooms, mops, buckets, and even some explosive barrels (for those really stubborn stains). Your mission? To scrub, sweep, and generally tidy up a variety of dungeon rooms, castles, and even dragon lairs that have been thoroughly trashed. Think PowerWash Simulator, but with more slime, fewer power washers, and a whole lot more goblin charm.

    The game thrives on its physics-based chaos. Splattering slime, rolling severed limbs (don’t ask), and strategically placing traps to guide refuse into disposal chutes are all part of the fun. Every level presents unique challenges, from slippery floors to aggressive dungeon dwellers who aren’t too keen on you tidying up their personal hoard of garbage.

    Why You’ll Love It:

    • Goblin Perspective: It’s refreshing to see the world from the perspective of the often-maligned goblin. They’re not evil; they’re just trying to make a living!
    • Satisfying Gameplay: There’s a strange satisfaction in transforming a truly disgusting mess into a sparkling (well, goblin-sparkling) clean room. The progress is visually rewarding.
    • Humour Galore: The game is packed with witty dialogue, comical sound effects, and absurd scenarios. You’ll find yourself chuckling as you accidentally launch a barrel of goo across the room or discover a hidden (and surprisingly clean) treasure chest.
    • Co-op Mayhem: While it’s a blast solo, Goblin Cleanup truly shines in co-op. Team up with a friend and experience double the chaos, double the laughs, and maybe even double the efficiency (eventually). Just try not to accidentally sweep your co-goblin into a chasm.

    Goblin Cleanup – https://www.team17.com/goblin-cleanup

    #GoblinCleanup #team17 #CrisaluGames #coop #dungeon #action #adventure #pcgames #steam #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • New Foes Arrive in Corrupted Camelot: SWORN Content Update is LIVE!

    New Foes Arrive in Corrupted Camelot: SWORN Content Update is LIVE!

    Brave Soulforged, King Arthur has called in reinforcements! The latest content update for SWORN has landed, bringing a fresh wave of challenge, power, and polish to the dark, Arthurian co-op rogue-like. Prepare to face three new corrupted Knights of the Round Table and dominate the battlefield with significant weapon and blessing tweaks.

    Here is your essential guide to what’s new in the fight to reclaim Camelot!

    Arthur’s New Corrupted Knights: Three Alternate Bosses

    The biggest addition to this patch is the introduction of three new alternate Bosses. If you’ve been carving your way through the greater difficulties, prepare for an unexpected twist! These foes can now appear at the end of a Biome instead of the usual boss when playing on Knight difficulty or higher.

    New BossTitle & Key Challenge
    Lady KayWall of Camelot. Wields a gigantic shield. You must find a way to power through her formidable defenses.
    Sir DagonetGrasp of The Mire. A gluttonous knight who revels in traps and poison, dragging Soulforged and rendering them immobile with his devastating hook.
    Lady AgravainScourge of Ships. Driven mad, this terrifying adversary dashes around her nest with breakneck speed. You’ll need to read her movements to survive her flurry of feathers and steel.

    These new encounters drastically increase the variety and unpredictability of each run, ensuring even the most seasoned players will need to adapt their strategies.

    Combat Domination: Weapons & Blessings Tweaks

    The developers have listened to player feedback and delivered some potent adjustments to the combat system, focusing on increasing build diversity and player power at the high end.

    • Attack Speed Cap Increased: The Bonus Attack Speed internal maximum has been increased from 50% to a massive 100%. This means the total attack speed cap is now 2x your base, up from 1.5x, opening the door for even faster, more frenetic builds!
    • Quality of Life for the Tome: The Tome’s Augment ‘Book Mark’ now has a Perfect Shot indicator, rewarding precise timing.
    • Bug Fixes and Balance: Several blessings and weapon augments that were granting unintended amounts of attack speed (like Oberon’s Flow and the Gauntlets’ ‘Flying Fists’) have been corrected to ensure fair, yet powerful, gameplay.

    The Potion Station: New Run-to-Run Mechanic

    The fight for Camelot just got a little more strategic! The previous major update introduced a New Potion System, which is worth highlighting for new and returning players:

    • Custom Flasks: Before each run, you can now speak to Guinevere to choose a powerful flask that offers an additional edge in combat.
    • Fae Lord Shrines: Find special Fae Lord shrines during your run to unlock their unique flask, which guarantees a blessing from that specific Fae Lord. This allows for a deeper level of build planning and consistency.

    More Polish, More Power

    Beyond the major features, this update includes numerous general quality-of-life improvements and bug fixes:

    • Updated VFX for the Greathammer and various event rooms.
    • Stability and performance improvements, especially for lower-end machines.
    • Tweaks to major enemy behaviour, like the Deep Harbour Wave Thrower and Major Suncaster, make their encounters more challenging and consistent with other Major Foes.

    This update is a clear signal that the fight against the corrupted King Arthur is far from over. Grab your allies, choose your oaths, and dive back into a revitalised and even more challenging Camelot!

    SWORN – https://www.sworngame.com/

    #SWORN #WindwalkGames #PlayStation #NintendoSwitch #PC #Xbox #Team17 #rpg #shooter #indiegames #adventure #knights #games #gaming #gamers #videogames #camelot #battle #sword

  • SKINWALKER: First Blood – When Desperation Makes a Monster

    SKINWALKER: First Blood – When Desperation Makes a Monster

    The horror landscape in gaming is about to get a whole lot darker and more morally complex. Get ready for SKINWALKER: First Blood, an upcoming action-platformer that trades jump scares for genuine, gut-wrenching choice.

    Developed by SISMO Games and published by Team17, this game isn’t just about surviving a creature from folklore—it’s about becoming one, and facing the dreadful cost of absolute power.

    The Ultimate Sacrifice: Story & Setting

    SKINWALKER: First Blood thrusts you into the shoes of a scientist faced with an impossible situation: his daughter is dying from a terminal illness. In a desperate bid to save her life, he enters into a horrific pact with a mysterious, formidable beast held captive within his father’s research facility.

    The core of the narrative is the trade: the creature’s freedom in exchange for the promise of a cure.

    • The Setting: The game takes place primarily within the sterile, but increasingly dangerous, confines of the research centre.
    • The Dilemma: To navigate the facility and eventually release the beast, you must switch between your two forms: the vulnerable scientist and the devastating monster.

    This is a story built on desperation, sacrifice, and the haunting question: how far would you go to save your child?

    Gameplay: Human & Beast

    What truly sets SKINWALKER: First Blood apart is its central dual-role mechanic. You’re not just fighting a monster; you are the monster, at least part-time.

    RolePlaystyleKey ActionsNarrative Impact
    Human ScientistSlow, Vulnerable, ExplorationInteract with co-workers, gather information, solve puzzles, access restricted areas.Progresses the narrative, uncovers secrets, and allows for dialogue choices.
    Beast (Skinwalker)Agile, Powerful, Hack n’ SlashTraverse air ducts, perform devastating executions on enemies (soldiers, other creatures).Clears threats and facilitates escape/progress. Innocent blood grants passive upgrades but carries heavy consequences.

    The gameplay is a strategic dance between these two forms. Your human form is necessary for subtlety and information gathering, while your beast form is for unbridled, visceral action.

    Crucial Feature: The game features a profound moral dilemma system. The civilians and soldiers you choose to kill as the beast, and the choices you make in dialogue, will directly affect the story’s outcome and the ultimate fate of the monster and your child.

    A Look Ahead: Anticipation is Building

    While we wait for more footage, what is known about SKINWALKER: First Blood points toward a game with deep narrative ambitions wrapped in a kinetic, pixelated action package. The blend of puzzle-solving vulnerability (as the scientist) and brutal, agile combat (as the beast) promises a unique, constantly shifting rhythm.

    It’s a welcome departure from traditional horror, using the famous, terrifying concept of the Skinwalker not just as a creature to be hunted, but as a power to be wielded, albeit one that stains the soul.

    SKINWALKER: First Blood is currently slated for a 2026 release on PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.

    If you’re looking for a game that challenges your morals as much as your reflexes, and you’re ready to embrace the darkness to save a life, keep this title firmly on your wishlist. The price of a cure has never been so high.

    Are you excited for the ethical quandaries of SKINWALKER: First Blood? What’s the darkest choice you’ve ever made in a video game? Share your thoughts below!

    Skinwalker: First Blood on Steam – https://shorturl.at/HCy0o

    #SkinwalkerFirstBlood #shapeshifter #hackandslash #action #Skinwalker #FirstBlood #team17 #sismogames #games #gaming #gamers #videogames #gametrailer

  • Unleash the Rhythm of War: Why Wardrum is the Next Mobile Game You Need to Play

    Unleash the Rhythm of War: Why Wardrum is the Next Mobile Game You Need to Play

    Are you tired of the same old mobile games? Do you crave a unique blend of strategy, rhythm, and good old-fashioned conquest? Then prepare to have your socks rocked, because Wardrum is here, and it’s beating a path straight to the top of your must-play list.

    Wardrum isn’t just another tap-to-win game; it’s an immersive experience that challenges your tactical mind and your rhythmic precision. Imagine a world where the fate of empires rests not only on the might of your armies but also on the beat of your drum. Intrigued? You should be!

    What Makes Wardrum Stand Out?

    At its core, Wardrum is a strategy game with a revolutionary twist. You’re not just commanding troops; you’re inspiring them through the power of your drumming.

    • Rhythmic Combat: This is where Wardrum truly shines. Instead of passive observation, you actively participate in battles by tapping to a beat. Each successful rhythm segment empowers your units, unleashes devastating abilities, or bolsters your defenses. It’s an adrenaline-pumping fusion that keeps you engaged and on the edge of your seat. Think Guitar Hero meets Clash of Clans, but even cooler.
    • Deep Strategic Layers: Don’t let the rhythm mislead you – Wardrum is packed with strategic depth. You’ll need to carefully choose your units, deploy them wisely on the battlefield, and make real-time decisions that can turn the tide of war. Unit synergies, terrain advantages, and enemy weaknesses all play a crucial role.
    • Epic Factions and Heroes: Dive into a rich fantasy world where powerful factions clash for dominance. Each faction boasts unique units, abilities, and a roster of legendary heroes to lead your armies. Discover their lore, master their playstyles, and forge your own path to victory.

    Stunning Visuals and Sound: From the intricate character designs to the vibrant battlegrounds, Wardrum is a feast for the eyes. And let’s not forget the sound – the impactful thud of your war drums, the clash of steel, and the roar of battle truly bring the world to life.

    Why Should You Play Wardrum?

    1. Innovation: It genuinely brings something new to the mobile gaming landscape. The rhythm-based combat is a breath of fresh air.
    2. Engagement: You’re not just a passive observer; you’re actively shaping the outcome of every battle.
    3. Depth: There’s enough strategic complexity to satisfy even the most seasoned strategy fans.
    4. Replayability: With multiple factions, heroes, and game modes, Wardrum offers endless hours of engaging gameplay.

    Whether you’re a casual gamer looking for something fresh or a hardcore strategist seeking your next challenge, Wardrum has something for you. So, what are you waiting for? Download Wardrum today, pick up your virtual drumsticks, and unleash the rhythm of war! Your empire awaits!

    Wardrum – https://bit.ly/YT-Wardrum

    #Wardrum #roguelite #fantasy #MopefulGames #Team17 #steam #pcgames #wishlist #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • Dive Back Into the Horror: CONSCRIPT: The Director’s Cut is Here

    Dive Back Into the Horror: CONSCRIPT: The Director’s Cut is Here

    The trenches of Verdun just got even more terrifying. The critically acclaimed World War I survival horror title, CONSCRIPT, has returned with a definitive upgrade: The Director’s Cut. For fans of classic, tension-filled survival horror, or those who found the original a little too punishing, this update—free for existing owners—is your call back to the front lines.

    If you thought navigating the mud-soaked, enemy-infested labyrinths of 1916 France while searching for your missing brother was tough before, prepare yourself. The Director’s Cut doesn’t just polish the experience; it expands it, refines it, and gives genre purists the new challenges they crave.

    Refined Horror: Quality of Life Meets Brutality

    The original CONSCRIPT was lauded for its faithful, punishing homage to old-school survival horror games like Resident Evil and Silent Hill, right down to the deliberate, “stand and shoot” combat. The Director’s Cut, however, addresses some of the areas that caused the most player friction while doubling down on its unique brand of historical dread.

    Key Enhancements in The Director’s Cut

    FeatureImpactFor the Player Who…
    Move While Shooting (Toggleable)Allows slow movement during combat, increasing maneuverability.Found the fixed aiming too clunky or frustrating.
    Infinite Stamina (Out of Combat)Reduces tedious slowdowns while exploring the large, interconnected maps.Was annoyed by the constant sprinting limitations and backtracking.
    New Inventory Upgrades & QoLPurchase permanent item slots for key gear (torch, gas mask) and use new map markers.Loves strategic inventory management but wants smoother exploration.
    Extra Rooms & ShortcutsChanges to level design to improve pacing and aid seamless exploration.Wants a slightly more fluid experience when revisiting areas.
    Accessibility FeaturesIncludes additional visual aids and control options.Needs or prefers a tailored horror experience.

    These improvements smooth out the rough edges, making the journey through the Battle of Verdun less frustrating and more focused on the core dread.

    For the Hardcore: Shellshock and Permadeath

    For those who felt the original wasn’t hard enough, the solo developer, Jordan Mochi, has prepared a gruesome gauntlet that pushes the experience to its limits:

    • Shellshock Difficulty: A brutal new mode where enemies are stronger, faster, and hit harder. Resources are even scarcer, and enemies even replenish health between room changes. This is survival horror at its most unforgiving.
    • Hardcore (Permadeath) Mode: If Shellshock isn’t enough to make you feel the high stakes of war, this optional mode adds permadeath, turning every bullet spent and every step taken into a potentially final decision.

    If you’re seeking a true test of skill, resource management, and emotional fortitude, these new modes are your new home in the trenches.

    Why Return to the Trenches?

    CONSCRIPT has always stood out for its unique setting—turning the horrifying reality of WWI into the monster—using the classic survival horror blueprint. The Director’s Cut isn’t just an update; it’s the full realization of the developer’s vision.

    It maintains the oppressive atmosphere, the intricate, Resident Evil-style map design, and the desperate, visceral combat that critics praised, but now with a layer of refinement that makes it the definitive way to play. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran looking for a new rank with the Shellshock S+ unlockables (hello, Infinite Launcher and Gold Armor!) or a new recruit looking for a slightly more welcoming entry point into this unique horror, The Director’s Cut offers something for everyone.

    CONSCRIPT: The Director’s Cut is available now on Steam (and is currently on sale!), inviting you to brave the historical nightmare of Verdun once more.

    Are you planning to dive into the trenches of the Director’s Cut? Let us know which new feature you’re most excited (or terrified) about in the comments below!

    CONSCRIPT Director’s Cut – https://conscriptgame.com/

    #CONSCRIPTDirectorsCut #CONSCRIPT #DirectorsCut #Team17 #CatchweightStudio #PlayStation #NintendoSwitch #Xbox #puzzle #adventure #shooter #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • Hell Let Loose Update 19: Smolensk, Self-Propelled Artillery, and a Revamped Battlefield!

    Hell Let Loose Update 19: Smolensk, Self-Propelled Artillery, and a Revamped Battlefield!

    The trenches are rumbling with the biggest shake-up to artillery and maps in recent memory! Hell Let Loose Update 19 has officially dropped, bringing a new Eastern Front city, game-changing vehicles, and a total overhaul of the artillery mechanics. Get ready to adapt, Commander, because the battlefield just got a whole lot more strategic.

    Welcome to the Eastern Front: Smolensk

    The star of Update 19 is undoubtedly the brand-new map, Smolensk. This isn’t just another field or forest; it’s the largest, most densely packed urban environment HLL has ever featured, placing you right in the intense combat of the 1943 Soviet offensive (Operation Suvorov).

    • Massive Urban Warfare: Expect brutal, close-quarters fighting through bombed-out residential districts and the city’s industrial heart.
    • Verticality is Key: For the first time, you’ll be fighting across multiple floors of triple-story, enterable buildings, forcing both infantry and Commanders to constantly look up for threats.
    • Unique Design: The map is carved by both train tracks and the wade-able Dnieper River, creating natural lanes and choke points that redefine tactical movement and flanking opportunities.

    Keep your head on a swivel—Smolensk promises to be an absolute meat-grinder that rewards tactical urban combat prowess.

    Artillery Reborn: SPAs and The New Artillery Squad

    The biggest mechanical shift in Update 19 targets the long-range firepower of artillery, aiming for a more strategic and less spam-heavy experience.

    New Vehicle Type: Self-Propelled Artillery (SPA)

    Say hello to mobile death! Update 19 introduces Self-Propelled Artillery vehicles across all factions.

    FactionSPA Vehicle
    SovietKV-2
    USSherman M4A3 105
    GermanSturmpanzer IV Brummbär

    These vehicles bring the power of artillery right to the front lines, allowing for rapid deployment and relocation, adding an entirely new layer of tactical mobility and counter-artillery play.

    Static Artillery Changes

    The traditional static guns have undergone a significant rework:

    • New ‘Artillery Squad’: Static artillery is now exclusively available to a new dedicated squad type.
    • Supply Cost: Guns must now be built with 50 Supplies, adding an element of teamwork and resource management.
    • Vulnerability: Static guns can now be dismantled or destroyed by the enemy team, introducing a new high-priority target for flanking units.

    These changes are designed to make artillery less of a ‘fire-and-forget’ experience and more of a coordinated effort, tying it directly into the Commander’s supply and resource management loop.

    Across the Board Enhancements

    Beyond the major headlines, Update 19 delivers a range of important quality-of-life and balance improvements:

    • Armor Adjustments: All Light, Medium, and Heavy tanks have been rebalanced to ensure their speeds and performance are more historically accurate and consistent. Recon tanks have also received slight buffs to speed and health.
    • New Bipod Weapons: New weapons featuring bipods have been introduced, including the M1918A2 BAR and the FG42, offering new options for suppressive fire.
    • UI Customization: Players can now toggle on/off information shown on the KIA screen and network instability icons, allowing for a cleaner and more personalized Heads-Up Display.

    Update 19 is a monumental release for Hell Let Loose, promising to shake up the meta with its focus on strategic map control, mobile firepower, and coordinated resource management. The chaos of Smolensk and the high-stakes world of the new artillery system await!

    What are your first impressions of Smolensk? Have you tried out the new SPAs yet? Let us know your thoughts on Update 19 in the comments below!

    Hell Let Loose – https://epic.gm/hell-let-loose

    #HellLetLoose #gameupdate #strategy #multiplayer #tactical #fps #ExpressionGames #Cover6Studios #Team17 #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • Morning! It’s a Nice Day for Fishing on Xbox!

    Morning! It’s a Nice Day for Fishing on Xbox!

    If you thought fishing games were just about a bobber and a gentle tug, think again. Nice Day for Fishing, the pixel-art RPG adventure from the creative minds behind the YouTube comedy group Viva La Dirt League (VLDL), has cast its line onto Xbox, and it’s a surprisingly deep, hilarious, and action-packed experience.

    Forget chill, laid-back angling—this is fishing… with a full-blown RPG combat system.

    From Humble NPC to Heroic Adventurer

    The game stars Baelin, the humble fisherman NPC from VLDL’s popular Epic NPC Man series. When the real heroes of the world of Azerim mysteriously vanish and an evil force threatens the land, Baelin suddenly finds himself with new, Adventurer-like powers. It falls to him to defend and rebuild the town of Honeywood, all while sticking to his humble, repeatable script of offering a cheerful, “Morning! Nice day for fishing, ain’t it!”

    The game’s charm is immediately evident, blending a classic 2D pixel-art aesthetic with the signature meta-humour and lovable characters VLDL fans know and love.

    Epic Fishing Battles: Your Rod is Your Weapon

    This is where Nice Day for Fishing completely flips the script. The core gameplay loop involves Epic Fishing Battles that feel more like a boss fight than a minigame.

    • Combat System: Once a fish bites, the battle begins! You’ll use timing, attacks, blocks, and even magic spells to chip away at the fish’s health bar. These aren’t just easy catches; fish fight back, reversing the line and forcing you to master parries and defensive manoeuvres.
    • Boss Fish: Be wary of the true deep-sea monsters! These formidable foes have distinct attack phases and patterns that will genuinely test your RPG combat skills.
    • Gear & Upgrades: Your fishing gear is your armoury. Your Rod is your weapon, your Boat is your steed, and your Hat is your armour. You’ll constantly upgrade your equipment and unlock new spells by completing collections for the mighty Fishing God, allowing you to tailor Baelin’s build to your preferred fighting style.

    Rebuilding Honeywood and Exploring Azerim

    The adventure isn’t confined to the water. As you complete quests and defeat fish, you’ll dredge valuable resources from shipwrecks to help rebuild Honeywood. Upgrading the town’s buildings unlocks new merchants, better equipment, and more quests, providing a satisfying sense of progression and community contribution.

    You’ll explore the vibrant lands of Azerim, from the Honeywood forest to the deepest parts of the coast, encountering familiar faces and plenty of hilarious, referential dialogue along the way. Be warned: a lot of the early-game quests involve a fair amount of backtracking—a deliberate, tongue-in-cheek nod to the repetitive nature of classic MMO fetch quests that VLDL loves to poke fun at.

    Final Thoughts: Is it Worth the Plunge?

    For fans of Viva La Dirt League, Nice Day for Fishing is a must-buy love letter packed with in-jokes, iconic characters, and the group’s signature wit. Even if you’ve never watched an Epic NPC Man video, this is a unique, funny, and surprisingly deep RPG that offers a fresh take on the fishing genre.

    While some players find the early quest structure a little slow or repetitive, the satisfying combat, constant feeling of progression, and laugh-out-loud writing more than make up for it. It’s an adventure that will keep you entertained for hours.

    It’s a nice day for fishing, ain’t it? Go grab your rod and save Azerim!

    Nice Day for Fishing – https://nicedayforfishing.com/

    #NiceDayforFishing #Xbox #fishing #team17 #npc #bossfish #rpg #adventure #sports #Baelin #FusionPlay #competition #VivaLaDirtLeague #VLDL #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • SISMO Games’ SKINWALKER: A Father’s Desperate Bargain in the Face of the Unspeakable

    SISMO Games’ SKINWALKER: A Father’s Desperate Bargain in the Face of the Unspeakable

    In the vast and often unsettling landscape of horror games, true innovation can be hard to find. Yet, every so often, a title emerges that promises to twist familiar tropes into something genuinely fresh and profoundly unsettling. Such is the case with SKINWALKER from SISMO Games, a title poised to deliver a unique blend of action, horror, and moral quandary.

    Published by the renowned Team17, SKINWALKER isn’t just another monster hunt; it’s a deeply personal journey into the heart of darkness, where the lines between hero and monster are irrevocably blurred.

    The Ultimate Sacrifice: A Gripping Premise

    The core narrative of SKINWALKER immediately grabs you. Players take on the role of a desperate father. His daughter is terminally ill, and conventional medicine offers no hope. In a last, desperate gamble, he enters into a pact with a formidable, captive creature: a Skinwalker. The bargain is simple, yet horrifyingly complex: the creature will cure his daughter, but in return, it demands its freedom. And to achieve that freedom, the father must become an extension of the beast itself.

    This isn’t just a story about good versus evil; it’s about the lengths a parent will go to for their child. It explores the terrifying question: what kind of monster would you become to save the one you love?

    Two Forms, Two Worlds: Gameplay That Demands Adaptability

    What truly sets SKINWALKER apart is its innovative gameplay mechanic that forces players to master two distinct forms:

    1. The Human Form:
      • Vulnerability: As a human, you are fragile and exposed. This is your form for stealth, exploration, and investigation. You’ll need to carefully navigate environments, gather resources, and uncover secrets without drawing unwanted attention.
      • Strategic Planning: This form emphasises tactical thinking. Every step, every decision, carries weight, as direct confrontation is often a death sentence.
    2. The Beast Form (The Skinwalker):
      • Raw Power: This is where the visceral, hack-and-slash action comes into play. Once you transform, you become a force of nature—agile, brutal, and capable of tearing through enemies.
      • Moral Weight: This is not a power fantasy without consequence. The very act of transforming and using this monstrous strength will likely have repercussions, both for the narrative and for the protagonist’s soul.

    The constant alternation between these two forms promises a dynamic gameplay loop. One moment you’re carefully observing your surroundings, the next you’re unleashing hell. It’s a dance between stealth and savagery, vulnerability and power, that will keep players on edge.

    Choices That Haunt You: The Narrative’s Dark Heart

    SISMO Games has indicated that the choices made within the game, particularly who you choose to kill in your beast form, will directly influence the narrative and lead to different endings. This isn’t just about good or bad choices; it’s about shades of grey.

    • Are you a precise instrument of the Skinwalker’s will, dispatching only those necessary for its freedom?
    • Or does the power corrupt, leading you down a path of indiscriminate violence?

    These are the kinds of questions that will linger long after you’ve put the controller down, making SKINWALKER less about surviving a monster and more about confronting the monstrous within.

    A Horrifyingly Beautiful World

    While details about the specific environments are still emerging, expect a world that is as atmospheric as it is dangerous. The horror in SKINWALKER looks to be more than just jump scares; it’s the profound unease of a world where ancient evil lurks, and where one man’s love for his daughter pushes him to unimaginable extremes.

    If you’re seeking a game that blends intense action with profound moral choices and a truly unsettling premise, keep your eyes peeled for SISMO Games’ SKINWALKER. It promises to be a haunting experience that will challenge your perceptions of what it means to be human—and what it means to be a monster.

    Skinwalker https://skinwalker-game.com/

    #Skinwalker #SismoGames #Team17 #games #gaming #gamers #Hacknslash #action #platformer #pc #xbox #playstation #horror

  • Log Lady Meets Metroidvania: Why ‘Silver Pines’ is the Survival Horror Mystery We Need

    Log Lady Meets Metroidvania: Why ‘Silver Pines’ is the Survival Horror Mystery We Need

    The indie horror scene just got a whole lot more intriguing. Developer Wych Elm, in partnership with Team17, has been steadily pulling back the curtain on Silver Pines, a game that is shaping up to be a stunning love letter to classic survival horror blended with the atmospheric dread of a ’90s supernatural TV show.

    After the recent showcase of the official gameplay trailer, the mood is set: grab your trench coat, because we’re heading to a small town with a very dark secret.

    Survival Horror Gets a 2.5D Metroidvania Twist

    The first thing that grabs your attention about Silver Pines is its ambitious mix of genres. It’s primarily a survival horror title, meaning resource management, tense combat, and intricate puzzle-solving are at the forefront. You won’t be mindlessly blasting monsters; every bullet and health item will count.

    But what makes it unique is the injection of Metroidvania design. The world of Silver Pines—a haunting, half-abandoned American town—is built for layered exploration. Expect to find paths blocked by locked doors or inaccessible chasms until you acquire a new weapon, a specific tool, or a key item. This design choice promises a deeply interconnected world where every solved puzzle or defeated boss genuinely changes your ability to navigate and uncover the town’s secrets.

    All of this is presented in a gorgeous, atmospheric 2.5D perspective, giving the town a distinct, handcrafted look that emphasises the eerie atmosphere.

    The Mystery: Find Eddie Velvet

    At the heart of the dread is a compelling, noir-tinged mystery. You play as Red Walker, a private investigator who finds himself in the titular town on a job to track down a vanished musician named Eddie Velvet.

    The game’s narrative echoes the golden age of weird, small-town horror. The developers openly cite influences like Twin Peaks and The X-Files, promising a story that quickly spirals from a simple missing person case into a “strange and nightmarish descent” beyond Walker’s control. The small-town setting, a place “half-abandoned, half-forgotten,” is the perfect canvas for a psychological and supernatural horror story.

    Gameplay Pillars of Dread

    The recent trailer confirmed several key gameplay features that will keep players on edge:

    • Scarcity and Inventory Management: Just like the old-school classics, you’ll have limited inventory space, forcing difficult decisions about what resources (ammo, healing, puzzle items) to carry.
    • Visceral Combat: The enemies range from nightmarish terrors to hulking bosses. The limited resources mean every encounter is dangerous, leaning into the “fight or avoid” mechanic of true survival horror.
    • Puzzles and Exploration: The Metroidvania structure is entirely dependent on puzzle-solving. You’ll need to use your wits, not just your gun, to unlock new areas of the town and progress the dark case.

    The Forecast: A Dark Cloud on the Horizon

    Silver Pines, developed by Wych Elm and published by Team17, is currently targeting a 2026 release. It’s set to launch on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch, meaning players across all major platforms will be able to step into Red Walker’s investigation.

    If you’re a fan of atmospheric horror, the tense resource management of early Resident Evil, and the labyrinthine level design of a Metroidvania, then Silver Pines should be at the very top of your wishlist. The wait for 2026 might be long, but a town this spooky is worth the anticipation.

    Are you ready to head to Silver Pines and uncover the truth? Let us know what you think of the concept in the comments below!

    Silver Pines https://www.team17.com/games/silver-pines

    #SilverPines #Metroidvania #survival #horror #games #gaming #gamers #WychElm #Team17 #PC #PlayStation #Xbox #NintendoSwitch