Author - Jerry Paxton

John Carpenter’s Toxic Commando Launch Trailer

Saber Interactive and Focus Entertainment are proud to unleash John Carpenter’s Toxic Commando, available now on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC on Steam and the Epic Games Store. Built on Saber’s cutting-edge Swarm Engine — the technology powering World War Z and Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 — this totally new co-op shooter throws players headfirst into waves of grotesque zombie hordes and towering bosses ripped straight from the nightmares of a grindhouse legend. Fans of over-the-top ’80s action-horror have been waiting for this one. Check out the game’s new launch trailer now and welcome to the apocalypse!

“The game is finally out. Play it,” said John Carpenter. “It’s good and it’s fun. You may not be ready for these ghouls to attack you, but when they do you better learn fast! They will overwhelm you. These ghouls are out for business! Time to kick ass!”

You may not be the best team of mercenaries, but you are a Toxic Commando!

In the near future, an experimental attempt to harness the power of the Earth’s core ends in a terrifying disaster, turning soil to sludge and the living to undead monsters. Leon Dorsey, the genius behind the experiment, had a plan to make things right: hiring a team of highly trained mercenaries to get the job done. Unfortunately, they were all too expensive. That’s why he hired THE TOXIC COMMANDOS.

Tag team with up to three buddies in four-player co-op with full crossplay support across PC and consoles. Clean the zombie mess and take on multiple survival-action missions through a semi-open world infested with endless waves of mutated monstrosities. Search for vehicles scattered across the map and smash those zombies under the wheels of your favorite rides for that pure rush of satisfaction. Unload an array of gunfire, grenades, special abilities, and even freakin’ katanas. When mutant monsters swarm from every angle, teamwork isn’t optional – it’s survival!

John Carpenter’s Toxic Commando is out now on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. Grab the game’s special Blood Edition today to secure your Bloody Season Pass featuring two post-launch DLCs including unique character, weapon and vehicle skins, as well as a Golden Cosmetic Skin Pack.

NC America Partners With emptyvessel to Publish Tactical Shooter DEFECT

NC America unveiled today it has partnered with independent developer emptyvessel to publish the close-quarter cyberpunk shooter, DEFECT. The agreement enables NC America to publish emptyvessel’s intense, tactical shooter on multiple platforms at a date to be revealed in the future.

DEFECT, a team-based, objective-driven first-person shooter, is designed to appeal to players craving an adrenaline-packed, cooperative multiplayer experience. By partnering with NC America, emptyvessel can now expand foundational support for its multiplayer gameplay while developing new single-player gameplay.

Founded in 2023 by industry veterans including CEO Emanuel Palalic and COO Garrett Young, emptyvessel’s team has amassed more than 100 years of experience building AAA games in major franchises such as DOOM, Quake, Call of Duty, and The Last of Us.

“This new partnership with NCSOFT really locks in our goal of bringing DEFECT to the world alongside a strong ally,” said Emanuel Palalic, CEO, emptyvessel. “NC’s support and guidance are helping us build a strong foundation for DEFECT’s single-player experience. In an era where many publishers have been moving away from supporting single-player in games, it’s refreshing to have NCSOFT’s support and trust in what we’re building.”

“We’ve worked closely with the core team at emptyvessel from the very start to make the jump from early cash-injections to signing on as publisher,” said Jeonghee “JJ” Jin, CEO NC America, COO, NC West/Arenanet. “We’re thrilled with the partnership agreement. We strongly believe DEFECT’s intense gameplay shows great promise against today’s tough FPS landscape.”

DEFECT is set in a dystopian city ruled by a divisive, enigmatic AI known as “THE SYSTEM”. With ruthless gangs and rogue law enforcement vying for supremacy, players can train in single-player mode for a deep offline experience, or team up cooperatively in 4v4v4v4 PvP squads for explosive, close-quarter firefights featuring dynamic multi-objective battles with advanced weapons and tech.

DEFECT is currently in development and available to Wishlist now via Steam, Epic Games Store and GOG.com. For more details, check the official game website and follow DEFECT on Facebook, Instagram and X. For more on emptyvessel, visit the official studio website. Follow them on X, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Tropico 7 Announces Closed Beta

Participation is voluntary. Loyalty is expected. Publisher Kalypso Media and in-house developer Gaming Minds Studios announce the Closed Beta for Tropico 7, inviting a limited number of selected players to help shape, build, and politely endorse the future of El Presidente’s newest regime ahead of its planned 2026 release.

The Closed Beta begins on March 31, 2026, on Steam and Xbox PC for two weeks. The playtest focuses on gathering feedback on core gameplay systems, political mechanics, and two selected campaign parts from the Colonial Times and World Wars and two scenario missions in the Cold War and Modern Times. The Closed Beta supports English and German text.

Apply for the Tropico 6 Closed Beta HERE

El Prez opens applications today until March 22. Selected participants will receive an invitation, followed by Closed Beta access keys and entry to the Discord testing mandate channel (If you do not have a Discord account, El Prez adds that you have no right to vote… uh, participate in the test) – where all opinions will be carefully reviewed by the authorities.

Tropico 7 is scheduled for release 2026 and will be available with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass, and on PC (Steam, Epic Games), Xbox on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation®5.

Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival Official Origins Developer Diary

Saber Interactive and Boss Team Games have released a brand-new developer diary video today for the upcoming survival-horror action game Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival, coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam later this year. Featuring Doug Bradley, the legendary Pinhead himself, this new look at the game bears witness to how the dev team is tapping into the series’ most primal elements to bring the infamous Hellraiser universe to life as a video game for the very first time!

Do you dare taste what lies beyond pleasure and agony?

With an IP as large and as deep as Hellraiser, the development team had a wealth of lore to choose from between films, books, comics and more. But the real challenge was to recapture what made Hellraiser so uniquely gripping from the very beginning, finding the series’ heart while going beyond the expected to deliver something truly surprising. From story to gameplay to effects and more, the result is a chilling experience which gives players unbelievable powers that bridge our world with that of the Labyrinth and the Cenobites’ grand schemes.

Embark on a battle for survival against Hell’s armies with a terrifying new story in the Hellraiser universe in Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival! Descend into the darkest depths of the underworld to rescue your love from an eternal realm of torment at the hands of the depraved Cenobites. Face your deepest fears against Hell’s most deviant wretches, cultists and creatures with the infernal powers of the Genesis Configuration puzzle box and an arsenal of earthly weapons.

Even in Hell, your suffering will be legendary…

True Hellraiser fans can pre-order one of two special Collector’s Editions of Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival from Boss Team Games, featuring a variety of exclusive, licensed collectibles created especially for these limited editions. More information can be found at hellraiser.bossteamgames.com.

TURTLE BEACH UNVEILS THE NEW VICTRIX x CAPCOM PRO KO LEVERLESS FIGHT STICK SF II: CHAMPION EDITION

Leading gaming accessories maker Turtle Beach Corporation (Nasdaq: TBCH), today revealed its newest variants in its award-winning line-up of Victrix™ fighting game gear, the new Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick – Street Fighter™ II: Champion EditionThe fully customizable Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick – Street Fighter II: Champion Edition is officially licensed by Sony Interactive Entertainment and Capcom and emblazoned with a bold new look celebrating the golden era of gaming. The Street Fighter II: Champion Edition design features the legendary Street Fighter™ Player Select screen as well as its iconic fighters Ryu and Chun-Li on the faceplate. And whether you choose Ryu, Chun-Li, or other favorite characters, you’re still equipped to claim more victories in your chosen arena. The Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick was named as the “2024 Best Tech” at the EVO Awards ceremony that recognizes excellence within the global fighting game community. Today, it remains the choice of gaming champions because it’s designed and crafted to the highest standard with premium features and components. Hot swappable Cherry MX Speed Silver RGB switches, customizable RGB lighting, a removable aluminium top plate, and up to 16 moveable and mappable buttons give players total control over their gaming experience.

“The Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick is the ultimate tool for gamers who refuse to settle for second best. The new Street Fighter II: Champion Edition continues its legacy of delivering high-performance gear that sharpens your edge and lets you play your best all while making a visual statement about your gaming passion,” said Trevor Lehr, Director of Product Management for Victrix. “With its unparalleled precision and deep customization, this controller is designed to turn potential into victory while now looking even better when doing so.”

Boost your fighting game performance and ascend the ranks with the ultimate gear. The Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick – Street Fighter II: Champion Edition for PlayStation® is compatible with PS5® and PS4® consoles and Windows® 10/11 PCs (PC compatibility not tested nor endorsed by Sony Interactive Entertainment). It has a MSRP of $299.99/€279.99/£249.99 MSRP and launches April 9, 2026, and is available for pre-order starting today at www.victrixpro.com and participating retailers globally.

Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick – Street Fighter™ II: Champion Edition

Since 2017, the Victrix brand has been a staple in the fighting game community because its peripherals are designed for players who insist on speed, accuracy, and reliability. While the Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick – Street Fighter II: Champion Edition faceplate gets a fresh new look, the design and functionality remain top-tier—just as you’d expect. Designed for gamers who demand speed, precision, and modularity, the Pro KO features hot-swappable Cherry MX Speed Silver RGB switches to ensure every hit is exacting and responsive, especially during clutch gaming moments in a match. With up to 16 moveable and mappable buttons, you have complete control over your gaming experience. The Pro KO’s buttons and switches are durable and designed to deliver lightning-fast response times, giving you the speed to play at your best. Light up your gaming environment with customizable RGB lights around each of the buttons, adding a touch of personal style to your setup. The Pro KO doesn’t just perform; it looks good doing it.

For more information on the latest Turtle Beach and Victrix peripherals and accessories, visit www.turtlebeach.com and www.victrixpro.com and be sure to follow Turtle Beach on TikTokTwitterInstagramFacebook and YouTube.

Antarctic fishing horror Crabmeat is Now Available for PC

Indie studio, Searching Interactive is today pleased to announce that Crabmeat – a short, first-person, point-and-click survival horror is now available to purchase via Steam for Windows, priced $7.99 USD / $11.79 AUD / £6.69 GBP / €7.79 EUR – with an additional 10% launch discount available for two weeks.

To coincide with the game’s launch, a new trailer has been released that teases the icy intensity that awaits.

Crabmeat shackles you into the sodden, salty boots of an indebted prisoner of the Feudostate, which has forced you to set sail in search of priceless Southern King Crabs to pay off your debt. You must collect your quota of crustaceans within seven days or risk permanent expatriation from the state for you and your family.

In this sharp and frosty two-to-three experience you’ll navigate harsh waters for bountiful shores, crewing and manually operating your government-issued crabbing vessel alone – baiting, placing, and winching traps, sorting your hauls, and fighting to maintain the ship’s vital components from threats that dwell beneath the tide.

In this frigid place, will you find freedom or your end?

Cozy Sim Ranger’s Path National park Simulator Out Now

Ready for a breathtaking wilderness adventure? Then it’s high time to discover the untouched nature of Faremont National Park starting today: Ranger’s Path: National Park Simulator by astragon Entertainment and To-Go Games – part of GRIP Studios is now available in Early Access on Steam and the Epic Games Store. The game costs 19.99 Euro / 19.99 USD / 16.75 GBP with early adopters receiving a 10% discount in the first two weeks after launch.

Today’s release trailer warmly welcomes all newcomers:

Newly trained rangers can expect not only everyday tasks such as clearing paths, dealing with visitors and repairing damaged objects, but also radio calls summoning them to spontaneous operations, as well as significantly more complex main missions such as clearing severe storm damage to a bridge or searching for a missing VIP hiker.

While exploring the breathtaking landscape, inspired by real US national parks, players discover not only lakes, caves, and waterfalls, but also wildlife such as rabbits, raccoons, deer, eagles, wolves and even imposing bears. Photographing landmarks, animals, and various plants unlocks encyclopedia entries and adds new exhibits to the park museum – much to the delight of visitors.

During the Early Access phase, nature lovers can look forward to new content and improvements. Planned additions include a park rating system, a new vehicle, new animals and interaction options, as well as new call-out missions. Players can find more detailed information in the game’s Early Access Roadmap.

Harvest Moon: Echoes of Teradea Announced

Natsume Inc., a worldwide developer and publisher of family-oriented video games, today announced Harvest Moon: Echoes of Teradea, the next entry in the Harvest Moon franchise, is coming to Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC (Steam).

The mist of the Forest of Echoes now covers the land of Teradea, and outside of Bloomfield Village where you were raised, wild wolves appear at night. There are even rumors of a large guardian wolf that rules them all…but you and your best friend are about to change that!

Throwing caution to the wind, you’ll set out on a mission to tame those wolves and end up unlocking a journey far greater than you imagined. Help the Guardian Spirits to revive and revitalize Teradea! Visit the port village of Tidewind to uncover what’s causing the storms there. Trek to the mining village of Quarrytop to get to the bottom of the mystery of the earthquakes that are happening. Then, stay in the once-thriving town and cultural center of Maplehill to revive its fading light and community.

Between your travels, tend your farm, raise animals, harvest crops, and build a life for yourself. Guided by the Harvest Goddess and aided by the friends you’ll make in each of the villages, you’ll find new ways to grow, explore, and lend a hand wherever it’s needed. As friendships deepen and the seasons pass, the truth behind the mist will slowly come into focus. With the support of those you’ve helped — and those who stand beside you — you may discover a way to lift the veil from the Forest of Echoes and let Teradea flourish once more!

Key Features:

  • Ten New Love Interests: Woo five all-new bachelors and five all-new bachelorettes! Marry whoever your heart desires!
  • New Exploration Abilities: Jump to hidden locations and climb ladders and vines to reach new heights and gather resources.
  • Animal Companion System: Bring your pets and animals on the road to adventure together! Each animal companion and mount has special abilities to help you explore uncharted territory.
  • Untamed Wilderness: Evade and escape wild animals like wolves, bears, and tigers! Keep your wits about you and don’t let yourself get caught, or you’ll lose items you’ve collected and end up back at your farm!
  • Island Life: Obtain nautical charts to locate remote islands to treasure hunt and befriend rare animals that you won’t find on the mainland.
  • Make Everyone Happilia: Help villagers and contribute to the development of Teradea to gain Happilia!

“We are excited to show off more of the new features of Harvest Moon: Echoes of Teradea over the coming months,” said Hiro Maekawa, President and CEO of Natsume. “We have special pre-order bonuses and editions planned that Harvest Moon fans and newcomers alike will love adding to their collections. Stay tuned to learn more about the mysterious Guardian Spirits of Teradea, new gameplay mechanics, and more!”

Universal Fan Fest Nights Announces Debut of Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon the Miracle: Moon Palace Chapter Deluxe

The continuing popularity of manga and anime will once again be integral to Universal Fan Fest Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood with the addition of Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon the Miracle: Moon Palace Chapter Deluxe, an all-original Japanese manga and CG anime short film that originally debuted as part of Universal Studios Japan’s popular Cool Japan.

Tickets are now available for purchase to attend the Universal Fan Fest Nights, which runs for a limited 12-nights only: April 23-25; May 1-3, 7-9, 14-16, 2026.

This exciting Japanese language short film will gather guests within DreamWorks Theatre to watch a subtitled version featuring heroine Super Sailor Moon as she battles an unforeseen enemy with sinister motives to acquire the Legendary Silver Crystal from Moon Palace’s enchanting ball. With her unwavering spirit, accompanied by audience support, Super Sailor Moon will prove good indeed prevails over evil as she outwits her rival and restores tranquility to the Moon Palace.

Universal Fan Fest Nights is an after-hours, separately ticked event that celebrates the exhilarating world of fandom through immersive and interactive in-world experiences created by the theme park’s renowned and highly creative entertainment team in collaboration with esteemed industry experts. Featuring a spectrum of inspirational categories, Universal Fan Fest Nights will welcome guests to embrace a variety of eclectic worlds that celebrate and elevate fandom favorites alongside live entertainment, character interactions, cosplay, photo opportunities, curated food, beverages and merchandise (separate purchase required).

Universal Fan Fest Nights will feature an array of exciting experiences and activations that will be included every event night for guests to enjoy.

Universal Fan Fest Nights will also feature these in-world experiences:

  • Scooby-Doo Meets The Universal Monsters: Mystery on the Backlot. This all-new, immersive walk-through adventure is designed to give guests the sensation of stepping into a live-action mystery with the Scooby-Doo gang and the Universal Monsters. Guests will travel to the destination via Studio Tour tram where they have a chance to walk along a movie studio backlot with Scooby-Doo himself and his pals Fred, Daphne, Velma and Shaggy. The exciting escapade will challenge them to solve a mystery involving the most legendary Universal Monsters in cinematic history, including Frankenstein, Dracula, Bride of Frankenstein and Wolf Man, as they navigate portions of Universal’s world-famous outdoor film sets, from the cobblestone streets of Little Europe to the iconic Court of Miracles, the original filming locations for historic Universal horror films Frankenstein (1931) and The Wolf Man (1941).
  • ONE PIECE: Grand Pirate Show. ONE PIECE returns to Universal Fan Fest Nights, but this time as a live show extravaganza at the WaterWorld show venue. Inspired by the success of the Universal Studios Japan production, ONE PIECE: Grand Pirate Show will invite guests to a whirlwind performance featuring a cast of ONE PIECE fan-favorite characters. With action, comedy and chaos taking center stage, guests will be transported to the very heart of the world of ONE PIECE – enveloped in friendship, freedom and mayhem.
  • The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Forbidden Forest: A Search for the Hippogriff. This new, unique, walk-through experience will take guests into the depths of the Forbidden Forest in search of a lost Hippogriff. With guidance from a Hogwarts Professor, they will encounter magical creatures and familiar beasts as they face a series of obstacles which will require the guests to summon their bravery and spell-casting skills to help a Hippogriff in need.
  • SUPER NINTENDO WORLD – Colorful Yoshi Celebration. This year’s Universal Fan Fest Nights introduces a vibrant, multi-colored Yoshi celebration in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. This all-new adventure will welcome guests to explore the land, where they will have a chance to meet new, colorful Yoshis who can be found throughout the Mushroom Kingdom.
  • DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Secrets of Waterdeep. This fan-favorite immersive experience returns due to popular demand, along with some enhancements. Inspired by the World’s Greatest Roleplaying Game™, DUNGEONS & DRAGONS (D&D), this epic walk-through experience will welcome guests and fans to partake in a one-of-a-kind adventure and explore the fantastic world of D&D. Guests will join the Harpers—a heroic spy network—to foil a plot by the legendary beholder Xanathar and save the city of Waterdeep.

This engaging experience features the legendary beholder Xanathar, uniquely created by the masterful puppeteer, Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. For over 40 years, Jim Henson’s Creature Shop has been a world-renowned innovator in puppetry, animatronics and digital animation.

Tickets are on sale now with a variety of ticket offerings available. Click here to purchase tickets and for full Terms and Conditions. Details for each ticket type are subject to change.

  • General Admission: General Admission ticket to Universal Fan Fest Nights. Does not include daytime theme park admission or early event access.
  • Universal Express: Admission to Universal Fan Fest Nights, including one-time (per day) express access to each in-world experience, ride and attraction. Does not include daytime theme park admission or early event access.
  • Universal Express Unlimited: Admission to Universal Fan Fest Nights, including unlimited express access (per day) to each in-world experience, ride and attraction. Does not include daytime theme park admission or early event access.
  • After 2PM Day/Night: Daytime General Admission to the theme park after 2pm and same day evening General Admission to Universal Fan Fest Nights.
  • After 2PM Day/Night Universal Express: Daytime admission to the theme park after 2pm and same day evening admission to Universal Fan Fest Nights, including one-time (per day) express access to each ride, attraction and seated show during the day, plus one-time (per day) express access to each in-world experience, ride and attraction during the event.
  • 2-Night General Admission: 2-Night General Admission access to Universal Fan Fest Nights. Does not include daytime theme park admission or early event access.
  • Ultimate Fandom Pass: General Admission pass to enjoy for up to all event nights of Universal Fan Fest Nights (based on your selected first visit date during purchase). No blockout dates on return visits. All visits must be completed by May 16, 2026. Does not include daytime theme park admission or early event access.
  • Early Access Ticket: Early access, beginning at 6pm (subject to change), to select Universal Fan Fest Nights in-world experiences prior to event opening. A Universal Fan Fest Nights admission ticket for the same date must be purchased separately.
  • Universal Fan Fest Nights VIP Tour: Enjoy VIP treatment of the event, including a shared, expertly guided walking tour of the in-world experiences, rides and attractions, as well as a gourmet dinner (alcoholic beverages excluded) in the private VIP dining room and complimentary valet parking.
  • Pass Member Special Pricing: Pass Members can take advantage of special online Pass Member pricing on General Admission tickets to Universal Fan Fest Nights when visiting on select event nights.

Adding to the adventure, guests can also experience select theme park attractions open during the event, including “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge,” “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™,” “Flight of the Hippogriff™,” “Jurassic World—The Ride,” “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,” “TRANSFORMERS™: The Ride—3D,” “Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride” and “The Simpsons Ride™”.

For more information visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com and Universal Fan Fest Nights, follow @UniFanFestNights on Instagram, visit Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook and follow @UniStudios on Instagram and X.

NFL Legend Travis Kelce to Amplify Fan Experience at Southern California Six Flags Parks

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN), the parent company of both Knott’s Berry Farm and Magic Mountain, today announced a new strategic partnership with football legend and champion Travis Kelce, who will serve as a brand ambassador for North America’s largest regional amusement park operator

The partnership unites one of professional football’s most dynamic and influential personalities into the Six Flags family, supporting the company’s mission to deliver world‑class thrills and family fun across all its parks — including Knott’s Berry Farm, Knott’s Soak City, Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor LA.

Throughout 2026, Kelce will collaborate with Six Flags to create digital content across social platforms and support marketing initiatives across a variety of outlets. Six Flags also has the right to incorporate Kelce’s name, image and likeness across a variety of approved channels, including broadcast media, streaming platforms and in park marketing.

“Travis Kelce has been a lifelong fan of Six Flags, having grown up going to some of our most iconic parks with family and friends, so he is a natural ambassador to represent the Six Flags brand across North America,” said John Reilly, president and chief executive officer. “His fun-loving personality, commitment to excellence and passion for the game have contributed to three Super Bowl titles on the field, and we’re confident they will score big with our guests as well.”

“Six Flags parks were a hallmark of my childhood and the scene of some of my most fun and cherished memories, and I’m excited to team up with the company as it enters its next chapter,” said Kelce. “The Six Flags team is creating even more rides and attractions as it takes guest engagement to a new level. I look forward to helping them continue to build excitement for their unrivaled portfolio of parks and introduce a new generation of fans to the unforgettable experiences.”

Financial terms of the partnership were not disclosed.