Woodland Games and Team17 Digital have today released their medical-horror sim Autopsy Simulator on PC. Stepping into the shoes of a practising pathologist battling his inner demons, players can expect an unsettling atmosphere and gruesome detail as they unravel the mysteries behind each autopsy. Players who prefer slicing and dicing cadavers with a more sim approach, can do so in the Autopsy Only Mode, coming to the game later this year.
Autopsy Simulator will see players study realistic case files, created in collaboration with real-world forensic practitioners, to help guide their examinations and dissections. Utilising medically authentic tools and procedures, players will learn all they can about the deceased before solving the mystery of their deaths.
In Dead Memories, Autopsy Simulator’s standalone story mode, experience the haunting tale of Jack Hanman and journey through the psychological horror as Jack faces his demons. The story mode offers a unique combination of simulation and horror narrative, with engrossing autopsy mechanics and spine-chilling developments.
Autopsy Simulator Features:
Gruesome anatomical detail and medically certified autopsy procedures: Dissect anatomically accurate bodies using a range of autopsy procedures and tools authentic to real-world practice.
Realistic true crime scenarios: Study a range of case files designed by real-life pathomorphologists and forensic doctors, then use what you learn to guide each autopsy.
Narrative-driven story mode with simulation gameplay: In Autopsy Simulator: Dead Memories, follow a gripping personal mystery while performing medically accurate autopsy procedures vetted by a certified pathologist.
“We are thrilled for players to experience this rather unusual simulator,” said Paweł Kozakowski, CEO of Woodland Games. “With Autopsy Simulator, we’ve crafted a true to life yet chilling experience that immerses players in the grim reality of forensic investigation. From the cold, sterile rooms of the morgue to the unsettling sights and sounds of the autopsy table, every moment is designed to evoke a sense of dread and fascination. Prepare to delve into the darkest recesses of the human body and mind.”
Tetris®, one of the most iconic and beloved video games in history, marks its 40th anniversary today, celebrated globally as World Tetris Day. Since Alexey Pajitnov created the game in 1984, Tetris has captivated the hearts of countless fans, selling over 520 million units worldwide.
“The enduring appeal of Tetris lies in its simplicity: easy to play and highly intuitive, making it accessible to everyone. As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we are humbled by the continued growth of our fan base. It’s a remarkable achievement for any brand, especially a video game, to transcend generations, and Tetris has firmly established itself as a cultural icon,” said Maya Rogers, CEO of Tetris.
“Looking ahead, we are excited to continue evolving Tetris for future generations. We aim to innovate while preserving the core elements that have made Tetris timeless, ensuring it remains a beloved and relevant part of the gaming world for years to come,” added Rogers.
This year, The Tetris Company, Inc. is marking this milestone with a thrilling lineup of announcements, collaborations, and events that will keep fans playing and celebrating all year long.
Guests will need to silence their screams when they enter the post-apocalyptic world of Paramount Pictures’ blockbuster movies, A Quiet Place and A Quiet Place Part II, in an all-new chilling haunted house at Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights. The terror of the excruciating silence is set to begin Friday, August 30 at Universal Orlando Resort, and Thursday, September 5 at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Directed by John Krasinski and critically acclaimed for its suspenseful yet mostly silent storytelling, A Quiet Place and A Quiet Place Part II follow the Abbott family as they try to survive the aftermath of sightless creatures with a sharp sense of hearing that draws them to prey on anything that makes the slightest noise.
Mirroring the silence in the films, the haunted houses will embrace unique sound design, special effects and the adept performances of the scareactors to convey the ominous sense of dread depicted in the films. Consequential to the storyline, Halloween Horror Nights will incorporate the use of American Sign Language (ASL) for the first time ever within the “A Quiet Place” haunted houses to capture the authenticity of the films.
Fans will relive the tension that will come to life in the iconic scenes from the first two films, including traveling through the farmhouse that serves as the Abbott family’s shelter and stepping into the root cellar where Evelyn Abbott escapes to give birth as one of the creatures closes in. The snarls of the larger-than-life predators will follow guests at every spine-chilling turn, and guests must remember: if they hear you, they will hunt you.
Horror fans and movie buffs can now plan their visit to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood as all tickets are available for purchase. Beginning Thursday, September 5 and running select nights through Sunday, November 3, guests will encounter eight all-new haunted houses, an onslaught of sinister scare zones and the iconic Terror Tram.
A variety of Halloween Horror Nights ticket options are available for purchase to the Universal Studios Hollywood event, including General Admission, Universal Express, After 2 P.M. Day/Night, the Early Access Ticket,which provides access to select haunted houses beginning at 5:30 p.m. (subject to change), in advance of the scheduled 7:00 p.m. event opening time, the premium R.I.P. Tour and popular passes, Frequent Fear and Ultimate Fear, which enable guests to experience the scares again and again. Click here to purchase tickets and for Terms and Conditions.
Stay and scream with a Halloween Horror Nights Vacation Package at Universal Studios Hollywood. Sample package includes one daytime General Admission ticket, one General Admission Halloween Horror Nights event ticket and accommodation at a Universal Partner Hotel. Click here for more information about each ticket type and here for vacation packages, plus Terms and Conditions. Universal Studios Hollywood Vacation Packages are sold by Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations, CST 2137135-50.
At Universal Orlando, a chilling new collection of horrifying experiences await guests, including 10 all-new movie-quality haunted houses, five scare zones filled with hundreds of menacing creatures, plus an energetic live show. Select tickets for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando are available for purchase, including single-night tickets, Express Passes, the R.I.P Tour, which provides front of the line access to the haunted houses, and the Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour that offers a glimpse into how the scares are brought to life via a daytime, lights-on journey through select haunted house. Guests can also stay, scream and save up to $200 (based on a seven-night stay) with a special vacation package that includes one-night admission to the event, admission to all three Universal Orlando theme parks and accommodations at a Universal hotel near the haunts with exclusive benefits, including access to a dedicated Halloween Horror Nights entrance for faster entry into the event, Early Park Admission to the theme parks during the day, and more.
Tickets for Universal Orlando’s Premium Scream Nighton Thursday, August 29, are now available. This unprecedented, one-night event will give a limited number of fans the opportunity to experience this year’s haunts before the event officially opens on Friday, August 30, including access to all 10 haunted houses, five scare zones and live entertainment. Premium Scream Night guests will also enjoy shorter wait times and staggered entry by group to the haunted houses, select all-you-care-to-enjoy food and non-alcoholic beverages, a souvenir credential, access to select attractions at Universal Studios Florida and free self-parking after 5 p.m. Only a limited number of tickets are available – click here for additional details.
Fans can get a jump-start on their Halloween Horror Nights gear with an all-new merchandise collection available for purchase now at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood, as well as online at http://shop.universalorlando.com. New items include a t-shirt and mug inspired by the all-original “A Quiet Place” haunted house.
For those eager to dive more into the scares in store for Halloween Horror Nights, check out the Discover Universal Blog, which today also reveals more about the slate of six original haunted houses at Universal Orlando Resort’s event. New updates will be posted regularly for the events at both Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood.
Additional details, including new haunted houses coming to both Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort, will be revealed soon. For more information and to purchase tickets for Universal Studios Hollywood’s event, visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com/Halloween. For more information and to purchase tickets for Universal Orlando’s event, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/Halloween.
As Spirit Halloween prepares to unveil its iconic banners on storefronts once again, the nation’s largest Halloween retailer is looking for 50,000 seasonal sales associates and store managers to support more than 1,500 retail locations expected to open in 2024.
Spirit Halloween Hiring 50,000 Seasonal Employees Ahead of 2024 Store Openings
Working at Spirit Halloween comes with head-turning perks. Associates can look forward to competitive salaries, flexible scheduling, and a premium pay incentive program while returning store managers are also eligible for seasonal retention bonuses. All Spirit Halloween associates also receive a 30% discount on Spirit Halloween purchases, allowing them to haunt on or off the clock.
“The excitement and enthusiasm of Halloween continues to grow, and as we gear up for another season, we are looking forward to welcoming new associates and store managers to our team,” said Steven Silverstein, CEO of Spirit Halloween. “Opening over 1,500 retail locations is no small feat, and much of the magic we create for fans each year is thanks to the passion and dedication of our associates who bring the Spirit Halloween experience to life.”
Each year, Spirit Halloween’s in-store experience is reimagined with the newest trends in costumes, décor, animatronics, and more, creating a work environment founded on fun, but guided by the core values of respect, integrity, and community.
Those dying to join the Spirit Halloween team can find more information at Work4Spirit.com or can text “Reaper” to 85000 to apply.
Follow @SpiritHalloween on social media to stay up to date on everything Halloween and visit SpiritHalloween.com to shop the best Spirit Halloween has to offer anytime, anywhere, every day of the year.
Put on the mask and rev the chainsaw – Leatherface returns to slaughter in pinball form with Texas Chainsaw Massacre Pinball, available now on Pinball M for $5.49! Aim your shots and use all your skills to take out your victims in one of the most brutal pinball tables ever created.
Play as Leatherface and terrorize new arrivals who dare come into your town. Following the harrowing events of the hit 2022 film, you can rev the chainsaw and have a bloodbath on the bus, or sneak up on unsuspecting victims by shooting the correct targets. Maim and massacre all survivors and reach the Wizard Mode – let no one escape!
“The brutal and unnerving legacy of Leatherface comes to life once again in pinball form,” said Mel Kirk, COO of Zen Studios. “Designer Zoltan Vari did not hold back at all. Players can expect a brutal, bloody, and maniacal table worthy of joining Pinball M.”
Texas Chainsaw Massacre Pinball is playable now on Pinball M for Windows PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store, as well as PlayStation 5|4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch for $5.49.
This update introduces the highly anticipated “Before-After” mechanic, allowing players to visually compare renovations and a wealth of new content, enhancements, and fixes.
Imagine the satisfaction of seeing a dilapidated house transformed into a stunning masterpiece. With the new “Before-After” mechanic, players can now enjoy side-by-side comparisons of their renovation projects, showcasing their creativity and hard work.
Discover the New Content:
Dive into the enchanting story of Little Red Riding Hood’s grandmother’s house, now available for renovation. This quaint home, left in shambles after encountering the Big Bad Wolf, offers players a unique challenge. Restore its former charm by fixing claw marks, cleaning up fur remnants, and repairing the cozy interiors. Key highlights include a damaged kitchen with retro appliances, a bedroom marked by wolf paw prints, and a small bathroom with elderly-friendly accessories.
The new order tasks players with creating a new bedroom for Teddy’s friend, who will stay for the summer. This involves moving Teddy’s parents to a downstairs bedroom and expanding the living-dining area by enclosing part of the porch. The goal is to create a harmonious living space for the entire family.
New Items Galore:
With approximately 190 new items, the update brings many options to enhance your renovations. There’s something for everyone, from new wood materials and charming cat-patterned wallpapers to various home accessories and garden items. Enjoy adding new cleaning tools, shower components, hot tubs, loft-style decor, and more to your projects.
Enhanced Gameplay:
The update includes several gameplay improvements, including enhanced lamp style copying, simplified wall and floor repairs, and improved HUD hiding. The vacuum’s suction area has been recalibrated, and the painting area with large rollers has been expanded. Players can also dispose of empty paint buckets in the trash bag, and new brightness and gamma settings have been introduced.
BioWare Studio’s General Manager and Executive Producer on Dragon Age, Gary McKay, published a blog post this morning sharing some new news around the next Dragon Age game – which has a new name.
In the blog, Gary reveals the new title Dragon Age: The Veilguard and provides background and context on their decision to change the name. Here’s an excerpt from the post:
Each of the seven unique characters that make up your companions will have deep and compelling storylines where the decisions you make will impact your relationships with them – as well as their lives. You’ll unite this team of unforgettable heroes as you take on a terrifying new threat unleashed on the world. Naturally, the Dread Wolf still has an important part in this tale, but you and your companions – not your enemies – are the heart of this new experience.
So, to capture what this game is all about, we changed the name as the original title didn’t show just how strongly we feel about our new heroes, their stories and how you’ll need to bring them together to save all of Thedas.”
We proudly introduce to you Dragon Age™: The Veilguard.
Also, as promised on Dragon Age day last year, the team at BioWare has also set the date for the official gameplay reveal for Dragon Age: The Veilguard on June 11 at 8:00am PT at the at the Dragon Age YouTube channel where they’ll be showcasing 15 minutes of gameplay from the opening moments of the game.
Today’s Titan Quest II Developer Diary takes a closer look at the Mythological Level Design. In order to create an experience worthy of the original, the world of Titan Quest II is being handcrafted from the ground up to create a unique and cherished setting.
From stately temples to lairs of mythological beasts and the realms of divine beings – you never know what might be waiting for you! The locations in Titan Quest II are being designed with the history and mythology of ancient Greece in mind, like a ruined Doric shrine, surrounded by cascading waterfalls overlooking the turquoise coasts of the Peloponnese.
The world of Titan Quest II is a blend of open roaming spaces and structured points of interest, while the smaller side locations break up the open world, offering opportunities for grand adventures.
Forged in the creative crucible of Grimlore Games in Germany, Titan Quest II is currently under development. This epic odyssey is destined for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S/X, eagerly anticipated to launch when the time comes.
Titan Quest II will also be part of this year’s THQ Nordic Showcase 2024, airing on Friday, August 2, 2024, at 12:00 PM PDT / 3 PM EDT / 8 PM BST / 9 PM CEST / 10 PM MSK.
Today ArenaNet® and NCSOFT™ announced Guild Wars 2®: Janthir Wilds™, the fifth expansion for the award-winning and critically acclaimed MMORPG Guild Wars 2. Releasing on August 20, 2024, the expansion will introduce a suite of new features long-requested by fans beginning with Homesteads, the most player-friendly housing system in an MMORPG. With a brand new customization and decorating interface, heroes can create and adorn their very own housing space for their friends and guild mates. New weapons and mount skills welcome adventurers to the uncharted, primordial region of Janthir, be it by taking hold of a spear, a new character terrestrial weapon type, or by hopping into the saddle of the enhanced Warclaw mount, further enriching the subscription-free online world of one of the most enduring and beloved PC games of all time.
Janthir Wilds will go on sale for $24.99 and, like its predecessor Secrets of the Obscure™, have three planned major updates scheduled for release between August 2024 and the summer of 2025. Launch day will see two new maps set among the deltas and islands of Janthir’s untamed wilderness, including the Lowland Shore, home to the Lowland Kodan, and the Janthir Syntri with its dangerous rocky shores, wandering titans, and mystic storms. To assist in exploring these new lands, players will learn to tame feral Warclaws; previously occupying a specialist role in the World-vs-World game mode, the Warclaws of the Lowland Kodan will allow players to hop in the saddle and explore Janthir, developing the steed’s special abilities to add more movement and traversal opportunities to Guild Wars 2’s widely-acclaimed roster of player mounts.
For the first time since launch, a new weapon type will be added for terrestrial combat. The two-handed spear will become available to all nine of the game’s professions. Each profession will use their spear differently, be it ranged or melee, and provide a multitude of new skills to further enhance player skill customization and gameplay builds.
The three planned major future updates will launch at no additional charge and continue to add new experiences: an additional map, a new Raid, new rewards (including new earnable items in the Wizard’s Vault), and a new PvP game mode will arrive in the following months and into 2025.
The expansion’s all-new story begins in the wake of the events of Secrets of the Obscure. Together with the Astral Ward and a council of nations from across Tyria, players will journey to Janthir and make contact with the Lowland Kodan, the tribal, pastoral residents of this rugged region, learning about their culture, and discovering the secrets of a primordial magical threat wreaking havoc in the depths of the wild.
“From the beginning we wanted to bring together many of the items that have been on both our and the community’s wishlist for years,” said Josh Davis, Guild Wars 2 Game Director. “Janthir Wilds is proof of our commitment to continue to surprise and delight while improving the Guild Wars 2 gameplay experience in unexpected ways, and to support game modes for both the cooperative and competitive communities.”
Players can shape the map of Europe as Field of Glory: Kingdoms is now out on Steam. This grand strategy game developed by Slitherine and AGEOD immerses players in a richly detailed historical world where they can lead any of 350 diverse factions, each with unique cultural traits, religions, and strategic opportunities.
With a deep and engaging tactical combat system, an impressive variety of 450 factions (of which 350 playable), and a comprehensive building system featuring 600 structures, Field of Glory: Kingdoms offers unparalleled depth and realism. Players must navigate complex cultural, religious, and political landscapes to expand their kingdoms, ensuring every decision shapes the destiny of their nation. So, grab your crown and get ready—because ruling a kingdom isn’t just about sitting on a throne; it’s about surviving the endless plot twists worthy of a medieval soap opera.
Marco Alessandro Minoli, Director of Publishing
at Slitherine Software, said:
“Field of Glory: Kingdoms builds on the legacy of the Field of Glory franchise; making games that are historically accurate and fun strategy experiences. With this release, we follow in the footsteps of AGEOD’s history of excellence in 4X productions while trying to pay homage to games that have paved the way to the genre’s success”.
Unmatched Scope and Diversity
Field of Glory: Kingdoms offers an extensive selection of 11 primary nations and as many as 350 playable, unique factions. This broad range of playable nations allows for a richer and more varied gameplay experience, giving players the freedom to explore different historical and cultural contexts. You can jump from one nation to another faster than you can say “Wait, where did my throne go?”
Superior Tactical Combat
One of the standout features of Field of Glory: Kingdoms is its inclusion of tactical combat. Unlike many Civ-like 4Xs which lack this feature, Field of Glory: Kingdoms allows players to engage in detailed and strategic battlefield management – you can export the battle to Field of Glory II: Medieval if you want to play the full tactical battle, and import the result back into Kingdoms. So, if your battle plans go horribly awry, you can truly blame yourself instead of those pesky, randomised encounters you usually see in other 4Xs.
Extensive Unit Variety
The game boasts an impressive 420+ different units, while usually on Civ-like games we see no more than 100. This vast array of units provides players with deeper strategic options and a more realistic representation of historical armies, ensuring that no two battles are ever the same.
Rich Cultural and Religious Dynamics
Field of Glory: Kingdoms enhances the complexity of its gameplay with 90 cultural traits and 14 religions/heresies, where the average grand strategy title stops at four or five religions. This diversity adds layers of strategy and replayability, as players must navigate the intricate web of cultural and religious dynamics to succeed.
Comprehensive Building System
With 600 buildings to construct and manage, Field of Glory: Kingdoms offers a far more detailed and immersive building system than most 4Xs. This depth allows for more intricate economic and urban planning, giving players greater control over the development and prosperity of their kingdoms. No rest for the king! You can rule the land mercilessly, but don’t cry if your lords decide to stage a Shakespearean-style coup while you’re counting your gold.