Author - Jerry Paxton

DEEPEST FEAR Gameplay Trailer

The team at Variable State just shared a sneak-peek at gameplay, for their upcoming Sci-Fi Horror First-Person Shooter DEEPEST FEAR™. Following up on the game’s world premiere in the PC Gaming Show last week, the footage revealed in GameStar’s Find Your Next Game Shwocase demonstrates the nightmarish claustrophobia of this immersive horror indie; the protagonist, Dr. Danni Carroll, faces down monstrous creatures spontaneously emerging from water sources, as she explores a flooded deep-sea facility.

For gamers eager for updates on DEEPEST FEAR™, the Variable State team has launched a dedicated newsletter, which will provide development updates— and the game is available to wishlist on Steam.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth PC Release Date Announcement

This evening at The Game Awards 2024 show, SQUARE ENIX announced that FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is set for a PC launch on January 23, 2025. Pre-orders are now live on Steam and Epic Games stores. The new announcement trailer can be viewed here:

The PC version introduces new features and customizations to take full advantage of the platform:

LIGHTING – Lighting has been adjusted, and the game’s overall rendering of light is significantly improved. The updated areas and cutscenes present with even greater beauty and clarity than before.

FRAMERATE AND RESOLUTION – NVIDIA DLSS support means that frame rates can be enhanced and image quality upscaled. There is now also support for variable refresh rate (VRR).

TEXTURES – The Level of Detail (LoD) for background models and MIP maps for background textures can both be freely configured in the options settings. With this background polygon density and texture density can be set higher than was previously possible, allowing for gameplay with higher-quality graphics.

CONTROLLER INPUT SUPPORT
Connecting a DualSense® controller with a PC allows players to use the same controls as the PS5 version. Keyboard and mouse support has also been added, alongside the option to freely customize the controls between world exploration and combat or mini-games.

STEAM DECK – The Steam version is planned to be playable on Steam Deck as well.

Players can pre-order FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH on PC via Steam or the Epic Games Store and take advantage of an Early Bird discount of up to 30% off* across all editions for a limited time. Additionally, those who pre-order will receive the Moogle Trio Summoning Materia, giving access to a powerful summon for their first steps into the unknown journey. The preorder bonus also includes a Shinra Bangle Mk: II and a Midgar Bangle Mk: II. The Posh Chocobo Summoning Materia will also be offered to all players who purchase the PC version of the game regardless of their purchase timing.

A full list of digital editions available for pre-order is as follows:

  • Standard Edition (limited time price: $48.99)
  • Digital Deluxe Edition (limited time price: $62.99) – Includes digital Mini-soundtrack, digital artbook, and digital DLC items including the Magic Pot Summoning Materia, Reclaimant Choker accessory and the Orchid Bracelet armor
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE & REBIRTH Twin Pack (limited time price: $69.99) – Offering great value during the pre-order phase, the Twin Pack includes FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, available at launch, and the full game download of FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE which will be available to play as soon as the Twin Pack is pre-ordered.
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE & REBIRTH Digital Deluxe Twin Pack (limited time price: $89.99) – Includes FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE full game download plus all Digital Deluxe Edition contents

Dying Light: The Beast Game Awards Trailer

During The Game Awards 2024, Techland revealed a second trailer for Dying Light: The Beast, introducing the man who brutally experimented on Kyle Crane and revealing a release window in summer 2025.

Meet the Baron: an emotionless, calculating, but brilliant scientist. Brace yourself to encounter the biggest threat Kyle Crane has ever faced – the man who brutally experimented on him for over a decade. His real name is Marius Fischer, the last descendant of a noble big pharma dynasty from Castor Woods.

Convinced that the remnants of humanity who survived the outbreak are weak, he sees it as his moral right and highest duty to restore order. To achieve this, he’s deep into experimenting with sinister virus strains, pursuing his grand design that still remains a mystery to everyone, including Kyle Crane, who is nothing but a tiny piece in the vast puzzle the Baron is putting together. He doesn’t revel in the pain he is causing, but accepts the necessity of the suffering inflicted on his subjects as a mere side effect needed to succeed in his trials. After all, the greater good justifies all means.

Survivors need your rage

Experience firsthand the torment that Kyle Crane has endured over 13 long years. Seeing his suffering, it becomes clear why his thirst for revenge is so intense; but giving in to this animalistic instinct could be a slippery slope as Kyle now possesses extraordinary, beastlike powers. If unleashed recklessly, he risks becoming the very monster he despises.

And with the fate of survivors and factions in the Castor Woods valley hanging in the balance, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Kyle chooses to fight for the survival of the people who depend on him, keeping his inner beast in check to prevent it from taking over. For now.

Evolution of the Dying Light formula

Dive into the new trailer for Dying Light: The Beast that teases new immersive gameplay. Witness a high-fidelity, intricately crafted open world filled with diverse areas, each meticulously designed and uniquely different, ready to be discovered. The post-apocalyptic Castor Woods comes alive with small, detailed touches in the new interiors and dynamic weather changes that make you feel as though you’re right there, a part of the immersive environment like the Swamps — a new area shown in the trailer.

Revel in the visceral combat by taking full advantage of the realistic physics of the environment, complete with liberating movement that combines the best parkour elements for you to use as you navigate through varied terrains.

See Baron’s Laboratory, where new threats introduce atmospheric gameplay horror, and glimpse a presentation of the new type of Virals that the Baron is using as soldiers. And be careful, as the night and day system introduces even more new threats, as you can quickly end up alone in the middle of the forest as the sun sets.

Unleash the Beast in Summer 2025

Reaching 1,000,000 wishlists in less than 10 weeks is a testament to the incredible support we’ve received from our community. For this reason, we are thrilled to announce that Dying Light: The Beast will be released in Summer 2025 and will be available on PC, PlayStation and Xbox.

Funko Fusion – The Office Cameo Pack Announce Trailer

10:10 Games, in collaboration with Funko, Inc. and Universal Products & Experiences, today announced that characters and iconic moments inspired by NBC’s critically acclaimed, Emmy® Award-winning U.S. version of The Office, now streaming exclusively on Peacock, are coming to action-adventure game Funko Fusion.

The Office Cameo Pack DLC adds four new playable characters—Michael, Dwight, Jim and Pam, each complete with their own unique weapons and skills—to the multiplatform franchise crossover game. In addition, this DLC features a unique mini bonus Cameo level that lets fans explore a recreation of Dunder Mifflin’s Scranton Branch in-game, featuring beloved elements of the celebrated TV series and with plenty of easter eggs to discover for longtime fans.

DLC Details – The Office Cameo Pack ($9.99):

  • Four Playable Characters: Fans can now play as four iconic characters from The Office: Michael, Dwight, Jim and Pam

  • Exclusive Bonus Cameo Level: Inspired by the fire drill from Season 5’s “Stress Relief Part 1,” players will have to navigate Dwight’s next insane simulation—a hostage situation. See if you have what it takes to save Pam.

The Office Cameo Pack DLC is the latest release in a steady string of post-launch content for Funko Fusion, from added features and quality of life changes to new playable characters and variant outfits. As fans enjoy The Office content this holiday, they can also look forward to many more updates in the new year.

The Office Cameo Pack DLC content is available for purchase today on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, and will launch for Nintendo Switch in early 2025.

Season 8 of The Office: Superfan Episodes featuring extended episodes and all-new bonus scenes is streaming now exclusively on Peacock.

Turtle Beach Launches New Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick

Leading gaming accessories maker Turtle Beach Corporation (Nasdaq: HEAR), today announced the launch of its ultimate controller for competitive and casual fighting game fans – the new Turtle Beach® Victrix™ Pro KO™ Leverless Fight Stick. Officially licensed by Sony Interactive Entertainment and Microsoft, the fully customizable Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick is designed to fit any fighting gamer’s platform preference and play style, and to level-up the execution of their combination capabilities in a match. Hot-swappable Cherry MX Speed Silver RGB switches, customizable RGB lighting, a removable aluminum top plate, and up to 16 moveable and mappable buttons make this fight stick’s ultra-premium design exceed the highest standard, and these standout features and components combo to deliver an unmatched fighting game experience.

The Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick for PlayStation® is compatible with PS5® and PS4® consoles and Windows 10/11 PCs, while the Designed for Xbox version is compatible with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows 10/11 PCs. The Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick is available now at www.victrixpro.com and www.turtlebeach.com for $249.99/£229.99/€249.99 MSRP. The PlayStation and Xbox versions will also be available on Amazon on December 20, 2024, and at additional participating retailers globally as more inventory becomes available.

“We design Victrix gear to help gamers level-up their performance in a match, and our new Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick does exactly that for fighting game fans,” said Trevor Lehr, Director of Product Management for Victrix products, Turtle Beach Corporation. “Whether you’re a seasoned competitive player or an aspiring pro, our new Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick is literally built to help you destroy your competitors with a combination of premium components and deep customization options.”

Since 2017, the Victrix brand has been a staple in the fighting game community, collaborating with pros like two-time EVO champion, two-time SBO champion, and Capcom Cup champion, Momochi, to design and build cutting-edge esports gear.  The Victrix Fight Stick line of controllers has already earned widespread critical acclaim and a devoted fan following within the fighting game community. Turtle Beach acquired PDP and the Victrix brand earlier in 2024, and the new Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick is set to continue its rich history of delivering the knockout punches needed to secure victory.

Designed for players who demand speed, accuracy, and reliability, the Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick features hot-swappable Cherry MX Speed Silver RGB switches to ensure every hit is precise and responsive, especially during clutch moments in a match. The 16 moveable and mappable buttons and switches are durable and designed to deliver lightning-fast response times for the edge needed to dominate opponents. Customizable RGB lighting with millions of color combinations can also be set using the Victrix Control Hub app. Transporting gear has been made easy with the ideal size of the new Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick. In addition to the premium slim size, gamers will also benefit from built-in storage for their switches, button caps, light rings, and button covers, while the strap posts allow for a shoulder strap or handle to carry it with you at all-day events.

During intense gaming sessions, players can utilize the Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick’s Tournament Lock Switch to turn off system buttons to prevent any undesirable disqualifications. Additionally, the braided USB cable also features a locking mechanism to ensure no accidental unplugs resulting in disqualification. For those who love to mod, the Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick features a removable aluminum top plate to get under the hood for customizations. Whether adjusting button position or changing to preferred switches, the Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick makes it easy to tailor it to gamers’ evolving needs. Prepare yourself to compete at a professional level with the Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick. Built for gamers who demand the best, it’s time to elevate your gaming experience and take down your foes.

For more information on the latest Turtle Beach products and Victrix accessories, visit www.turtlebeach.com and www.victrixpro.com and be sure to follow Turtle Beach’s Victrix Pro gaming accessories on TikTok, X, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.

Borderlands 4 Revealed at The Game Awards 2024

Today, 2K and Gearbox Software released the first look at Borderlands® 4 showcasing new details from one of the most highly anticipated games coming in 2025. Revealed at The Game Awards, a new trailer introduces The Timekeeper, a ruthless dictator who dominates the masses from on high. A world-altering catastrophe threatens his perfect Order, unleashing mayhem across Kairos, the most dangerous planet discovered so far in the Borderlands universe.

Borderlands 4 is the most ambitious Borderlands to date, lovingly hand-crafted by the development studio that first forged the looter shooter genre. The title evolves the series’ gameplay and storytelling in new ways while delivering on the quintessential Borderlands experience fans know and love, including:

  • Intense action, badass Vault Hunters, and billions of wild and deadly weapons on an all-new planet ruled by a ruthless tyrant.
  • The deepest and most diverse Vault Hunter skill trees of any Borderlands title yet, giving players an unprecedented level of expression through their builds. Paired with the most expansive loot chase yet, players will have all the tools they need to seek out and perfect the build that best matches their style.
  • Players will be able to seamlessly travel between zones and become immersed in a more dynamic world featuring events and discoverable side missions that encourage and reward exploration.
  • New traversal mechanics add to the exploration for loot and add new dimensions to combat. A vehicle that can be summoned almost anywhere will have players racing across the beautiful vistas of Kairos in style.
  • Fight solo or in co-op with up to three other players in this immense sci-fi adventure, packed with free-form combat and exploration, pulse-pounding boss fights, infinitely varied loot drops, and an eclectic cast of unforgettable characters new and old.

“Borderlands 4 is about freedom and being badass,” said Gearbox boss Randy Pitchford. “This is by far the biggest and most insane world we’ve ever made – it’s overloaded with jerkface ratnozzle scrote monsters that need to be put down with the most over-the-top hardcore nuts op guns and loot in any game ever. Oh, and the story also seriously kicks ass!”

Borderlands 4 will launch in 2025 on PlayStation®5 (PS5®), Xbox Series X|S and PC through Steam and the Epic Games Store. It is available to wishlist now.

The Borderlands franchise has sold-in more than 87 million copies to-date, receiving critical acclaim from reviewers and fans alike. With unforgettable characters, deep world building, and more unique guns than can be counted, the franchise has cemented itself as a must-play series.

For the latest information on Borderlands 4, wishlist the game, visit www.borderlands.2k.com and follow the game across YouTube, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.

Turok: Origins Announced at The Game Awards 2024

At The Game Awards, Saber Interactive, in collaboration with Universal Products & Experiences, revealed Turok: Origins, a new evolution of the classic dinosaur-hunting game franchise that began nearly 30 years ago. Developed and published by Saber, this fast-paced, third-person, sci-fi shooter, featuring both solo and cooperative action for up to three players, will be available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Watch the debut trailer now and get your very first look at the epic gameplay and spectacle of Turok: Origins.

Turok: Origins revives the legendary game franchise’s action and spirit while bringing it forward into the modern era with a completely new look, story, and gameplay. Players will take on the role of fierce Turok warriors to face off against ferocious dinosaurs and a terrifying alien threat that seeks to destroy all human life in the galaxy. Fans can unleash devastating attacks on enemies with weapons and abilities, and harness fallen enemies’ DNA to upgrade their arsenal. Players will embark on a high-stakes adventure — solo or with friends — to unravel mysteries that hold the key to saving humanity.

“Turok was one of the first console shooters I ever played,” said Matthew Karch, CEO and co-founder of Saber Interactive. “When we looked at game franchises that we felt deserved to be brought back, Turok was at the top of our list. At Saber, we love taking classic IP and combining it with fresh gameplay. We are excited to finally announce the game, but we’ll be even happier when we deliver this old-school experience with modern-day execution.”

“Turok is an iconic game franchise that has fascinated players for decades. As we embark on its revival, we’re proud to honor its rich heritage while reimagining it for a new era,” said Bill Kispert, SVP & GM, Games & Digital Platforms at Universal Products & Experiences. “Rooted in comic book origins, this absorbing, adrenaline-charged series is truly one that deserves a comeback, and we’re dedicated to delivering an exciting experience chock full of story, action, combat and creatures that both longtime fans and newcomers will appreciate.”

Key Game Features

  • Fight Against Enemies: Battle alone or as a team against a variety of dinosaurs, creatures, and bosses that take to the ground, sky, swamps, and caves to push players’ skills to the limit. Engage in intense combat, where players must use everything at their disposal to ensure success, including melee attacks, special abilities, and fine-tuned weapons.
  • Unleash Your Arsenal: Unlock and upgrade your advanced weaponry to dominate your battles and neutralize your enemies. Plasma rifles, ray guns, snipers, bows, shotguns, and more are all at your disposal.
  • Unlock DNA Powers: Extract DNA from fallen foes and the environment to unlock game-changing powers that evolve your suit in real-time. Each DNA power not only enhances your look but also offers upgradeable skills and abilities to give you an edge in combat.
  • Experience an Epic Story Across the Lost Lands: Throughout Turok’s missions, players will journey across breathtaking yet deadly worlds on various planets. From ancient temples and wasteland canyons to dense jungles, each location holds pieces of an unforgettable story that is packed with twists and turns.

Milestone Announces Return of 90’s Racer Screamer

During The Game Awards 2024, Milestone, one of the leading and longest-established racing game developers globally, unveiled a teaser trailer announcing the return of Screamer, the 1995 title that pushed the boundaries of racing games, set a new benchmark in the genre, and brought the excitement of virtual races from arcades into players’ homes.

Watch the Screamer teaser trailer here:

Embracing the trailblazing spirit of the original, Milestone has reimagined its most iconic IP, combining over 30 years of expertise in racing games to craft a brand-new experience with standout fighting mechanics destined to leave a lasting impact on the genre, just as the original did in the ’90s.

This brand-new Screamer seamlessly blends high-octane arcade action with revolutionary gameplay dynamics and a deep storyline enriched by interwoven character arcs. Drawing inspiration from anime and manga from the ’80s and ’90s, the game’s narrative and visual framework will be its beating heart and soul. The game features contributions from industry-leading partners, including animated cutscenes created in collaboration with Polygon Pictures—one of the oldest and most renowned Japanese animation studios—and the acclaimed American actor Troy Baker, one of gaming’s most recognizable voices.

Combining plot themes of human will, revenge, love, and greed with classic sci-fi imagery, Screamer immerses players in the clash between personal desires and external forces that seek to control them. This journey unfolds through the eyes of a diverse cast of characters involved in a street racing tournament organized by a mysterious figure.

Scheduled for release in 2026, Screamer will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

Mafia: The Old Country – The Initiation Trailer

Today, 2K and Hangar 13 released a new trailer for Mafia: The Old Country, introducing the brutal criminal underworld of 1900s Sicily at The Game Awards. Marking the start of a new crime saga for the acclaimed Mafia franchise, Mafia: The Old Country is an all-new story set in the Mafia universe, harkening back to the roots of organized crime with a compelling new cast of characters.

As a linear, narrative-driven game, Mafia: The Old Country is a focused package perfect for fans looking to engross themselves in an unfamiliar world of danger and intrigue. The graphically stunning cinematic experience features a story grounded in the brutal world of organized crime that authentically immerses players with dangerous combat systems featuring high-stakes, grounded stealth and gunplay mechanics.

Mafia: The Old Country introduces a new, original protagonist for players to embody. Enzo’s story unfolds in a time when skill with a stiletto blade was a deadly asset, a lupara sawed-off shotgun was a go-to firearm, murderous vendettas raged for decades, and mafiosi patrolled their protection rackets on foot, horseback, or behind the wheel of turn-of-the-century motorcars.

Through grit and determination, Enzo has survived a childhood of indentured labor in Sicily’s hellish sulfur mines. Now, through a twist of fate, he has the opportunity to join Don Torrisi’s crime family, and will do whatever it takes to carve out a better life for himself. By swearing an oath, Enzo has committed himself to the Torrisi family’s code of honor, with all the power and hardship it entails. He must never forget this simple truth: Family Takes Sacrifice.

“Mafia: The Old Country is a love letter to old-style, gritty Mafia stories where players can uncover the origins of organized crime,” said Nick Baynes, President of Hangar 13, “Everyone at Hangar 13 is committed to creating the most authentic and intense story of the franchise, and we can’t wait for players to experience the journey with Enzo.”

First established in 2002 with the launch of the landmark game Mafia, the franchise has sold-in more than 35 million copies across consoles and PC. Hangar 13 has spent 22 years immersing players in brutal Mafia worlds, and now these franchise veterans are focused on Mafia: The Old Country.

For the latest information on Mafia: The Old Country, wishlist the game, visit mafiagame.com, and follow the game across YouTube, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

Mafia: The Old Country is currently rated RP – Mature by the ESRB.

Hangar 13 is a 2K studio. 2K is a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO).

Wargaming Announces Steel Hunters

Wargaming, the award-winning online game developer and publisher behind the hit World of Tanks and World of Warships Franchises, is proud to announce its new original IP – Steel Hunters – a free-to-play, mech hero shooter that uniquely blends Battle Royale and Extraction mechanics.

The game offers an intense mech power fantasy where you control formidable mechanical giants – Hunters – and participate in action-packed battles, pursuing various objectives to level up and acquire gear. Each Hunter comes with its own distinct playstyle, unique ability kits and progression systems that allow for a variety of strategy and tactics to outmatch opponents as they push toward the final showdown at the extraction point.

“This is a massive moment for Wargaming,” said Victor Kislyi, Wargaming CEO. “We are best known for creating immersive and sustainable digital hobbies for millions of gamers around the world. With Steel Hunters, we’re pushing past our boundaries and bringing something completely new. Our ambition is to create one of the most exhilarating and compelling mech experiences ever.”

“Steel Hunters is the result of incredible teamwork and dedication of our talented people in Guildford, Prague and our studios around the world,” said Mike McDonald, Product Director. “Over the past 3 years, we’ve worked relentlessly to create a game that offers a unique take on the mech shooter space by combining elements of different genres into one compelling mix. Today we’re finally ready to show players what we’ve been building.”

Set in a futuristic world, Steel Hunters tells the story of humanity’s fight for survival following a catastrophic event. To secure a rare extraterrestrial resource called Starfall, Hunters were created. In their clash for domination, Corporations and Factions transformed Hunters into fearsome combat machines, used in the race to conquer the scarce resource across the ruins of a green but abandoned Earth.

The time has come to embrace the power of a mighty Steel Hunter and prepare to join the action! Don’t wait another minute and sign up for our exclusive 10-day closed playtest, available for PC players via:

https://steelhunters.com/soon

Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1691340