Author - Jerry Paxton

CODE VEIN II Character Creator Demo Out Now

Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. today announced that a playable Character Creator Demo for CODE VEIN™II is now available on PC via Steam®, PlayStation®5 and Xbox Series X|S ahead of the game’s launch on January 30, 2026.

View the demo trailer here:

Offering 64 save slots that transfer directly into the final game, the CODE VEIN II Character Creator Demo allows players to experience the game’s deep customization system for the game’s protagonist Revenant Hunter, where players can customize their characters to perfection with a vast array of settings for body type, hairstyle, facial expressions, accessories, makeup and more. Players can also visit the hot spring at the MagMell Institute to view their character in different lighting environments and use Photo Mode to capture and save their creations.

CODE VEIN II is available now for pre-orders on PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam® in Standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate Editions. For more information about the game, visit www.playcodevein.com.

Blizzard 35 Showcase Details and More

Today, Blizzard Entertainment unveiled tune-in dates for its upcoming 2026 showcase, a series of developer-led spotlights packed with major game launch announcements from across Blizzard’s universes, including World of Warcraft, Overwatch, Hearthstone, and Diablo. These spotlights also serve as a celebration of Blizzard’s 35th anniversary, honoring both community and craft, while providing an exciting look toward the future, including BlizzCon’s much-anticipated return in September.

“Our extraordinarily talented teams have assembled a stellar line-up for our players across our universes,” said Johanna Faries, President of Blizzard Entertainment. “This major showcase event comes at a significant moment in time as we reflect on three and a half decades of Blizzard history and our big ambitions for the future. This is only the start of what we’ll share around our games this year, and we can’t wait to bring it to life.”

Tune in to Blizzard’s YouTube and Twitch channels to catch each presentation:

Viewers’ Guide

SHOWTIMES TITLE WHERE TO WATCH
January 29 at 9:00 a.m. PST

January 29 at 5:00 p.m. GMT

January 30 at 2:00 a.m. KST

World of Warcraft
State of Azeroth
February 4 at 10:00 a.m. PST

February 4 at 6:00 p.m. GMT

February 5 at 3:00 a.m. KST

Overwatch Spotlight
February 9 at 9:30 a.m. PST

February 9 at 5:30 p.m. GMT

February 10 at 2:30 a.m. KST

Hearthstone Spotlight
February 11 at 2:00 p.m. PST

February 11 at 10:00 p.m. GMT

February 12 at 7:00 a.m. KST

Diablo 30th Anniversary
Spotlight

 

Also released today is “Blizzard: The Next Chapter,” a video commemorating Blizzard’s heritage and history, honoring the moments, releases, and memories that form the foundation of the company, from the very beginning to now. The table is “set” with approximately 400 artifacts from the Blizzard’s physical archives, representing a living legacy spanning 35 years and an open invitation to players to be a part of Blizzard’s story for years to come.

Full details on the Blizzard Showcase can be found on the blog.

MIO: Memories in Orbit Accolades Trailer

Today Focus Entertainment and Douze Dixièmes are celebrating MIO: Memories in Orbit’s success with fans and critics alike with a brand-new trailer. Distinguished by its striking art direction and equally remarkable original soundtrack, this French‑crafted metroidvania has resonated strongly with players around the world, securing a Metacritic score of 84.

MIO: Memories in Orbit launched on January 20 and is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch (both generations), and PC via Steam, the Epic Games Store, and Microsoft Store. The game is also playable on Xbox Game Pass and runs seamlessly on Steam Deck.

Composed by Nicolas Gueguen, the game’s original soundtrack is now available across all major streaming platforms — including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Bandcamp, and more.

MIO: Memories in Orbit is priced at $19.99, with a 10% launch discount still available for PC and Xbox players. Owners of the original Nintendo Switch version of the game can receive free access to the Nintendo Switch 2 version.

Greenland 2: Migration Hits Premium Digital and Premium VoD January 27

The fight for survival continues when GREENLAND 2: MIGRATION arrives on Premium Digital and Premium Video on Demand beginning January 27 from Lionsgate. GREENLAND 2: MIGRATION stars Gerard Butler (300), Morena Baccarin (Deadpool), Roman Griffin Davis (Jojo Rabbit), Amber Rose Revah (TV’s “The Punisher”), Sophie Thompson (Emma), and William Abadie (TV’s “Emily in Paris”). Written by Mitchell LaFortune and Chris Sparling. Based on characters created by Chris Sparling. Directed by Ric Roman Waugh.

In the aftermath of a comet strike that devastates most of the Earth, GREENLAND 2: MIGRATION follows devoted family man John Garrity (Gerard Butler) and his wife and son (Morena Baccarin, Roman Griffin Davis) after they’re forced to leave the safety of their bunker in Greenland to search for a new home in a shattered world. John leads the family on a dangerous journey, guided by his burning hope in a rumored safe haven. It’s a journey against the odds that will test the family’s deepest sense of love, sacrifice, and instinct to survive.

On January 26, GREENLAND 2: MIGRATION will be available to rent via Premium Video on Demand (for a 48-hour period) and to buy via Premium Electronic Sell Thru on participating digital platforms where movies are purchased, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Fandango at Home, Google TV, YouTube, and more.

Battlestar Galactica: Scattered Hopes Gameplay Overview

Dotemu (MARVEL Cosmic Invasion, Absolum) today dropped a gameplay video overview of Battlestar Galactica: Scattered Hopes, the strategic adaptation of the iconic sci-fi series that challenges you to save a ragtag fleet from all but certain extinction.

The video demonstrates how developer Alt Shift has built Battlestar Galactica: Scattered Hopes as an enthralling, narratively driven journey where evading the pursuit of the series’ merciless sentient robots, the Cylons, is a cutthroat balance of scavenging supplies and making the most of imperfect situations.

Watch the video now for an early glimpse at your future duties as commander, where you’ll keep the peace as best you can while protecting your forces from decimation – as well as imposters among your ranks.

The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor Presents: Dark Masquerade

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group, producers of the famed Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor, announced the debut of an all new immersive experience, Dark Masquerade. This special event will operate for a limited run, opening its doors on Friday the 13th and running through Saturday, February 14th, perfect for those who prefer a hint of dark romance with their Valentine’s Day celebrations.

Dress to haunt, and be haunted, at Dark Masquerade, an after-hours takeover of the Queen Mary. Sway through a high-energy masquerade dance party under dimmed chandeliers and creeping fog, then slip into the ship’s belly for story-driven encounters where Dark Harbor icons pull you deeper into their legends.

“Dark Masquerade gives our fans the chance to dive further into the world of Dark Harbor than ever before,” said Thirteenth Floor’s Director of Special Projects, Brett Bertolino, “This all-new, immersive, story-driven experience expands the lore of our legendary icons through intimate scenes and unexpected encounters and of ers a chilling glimpse of what awaits this fall aboard the Queen Mary.”

General Admission to the event includes:

  • The Ringmaster’s Dark Masquerade – Dance Party: This is the heartbeat of the night! Dance the night away as The Ringmaster and their Henchies command the floor while DJ Kiltrina (LVCFT) keeps the pulse relentless. Expect fog, flash, and a few sly tricks from the Big Top.
  • Gale’s Requiem – Atmospheric encounter in a rarely accessed area of the ship, featuring immersive storytelling, live music, and character interactions: Descend six fathoms and follow bass-heavy vibrations along grated catwalks past gauges and humming pipes. Step into the “resonance” circle to feel the pulse climb as Dr. Edwin Masters’ final test unravels and Graceful Gale seizes the baton—turning the room, and you, into her orchestra.
  • The Search for Mary – Traverse the depths of the Queen Mary with only a glow stick: Guided by the glow of a single red glowstick, you and your sweetheart slip through shadowed corridors in pursuit of mischievous Scary Mary. Keep close. She loves to play…and she hates goodbyes.
  • Sweethearts’ Slaughterhouse – Interactive experience with a small curated treat, themed storytelling, and character interaction: Peek past swinging kitchen doors, thread the prep line between hanging “orders,” and decode the Chef’s love-letter menu before you’re offered a bite-sized “tasting.” Decide if you dare a nibble… before the dessert bites back.

VIP Admission to the event includes all experiences listed above, with expedited entry and priority access to Gale’s Requiem. VIP guests will also receive access to an exclusive experience, Pressure Test: Bound Below. Your wrists click shut; the ship starts to sing. Cuffed together, you and your chosen companion submit to Half Hatch Henry’s pressure test, noise, darkness, and proximity, as the Queen Mary’s machinery sets the tempo.

This special off-season event features Dark Harbor’s legendary icons and cast. It includes The Ringmaster’s Dark Masquerade plus three spooky, story-driven experiences in the ship’s lower decks. These experiences are not mazes, but may include complete darkness, fog, strobe lights, monsters and startling effects. Dark Harbor’s in-season mazes and attractions will not be open during this event.

This is a 21+ event. A valid government-issued ID is required for entry and to purchase alcoholic beverages. Tickets start at $59 + fees. For more information and to sign up for early access to tickets, visit DarkHarborHalloween.com/DarkMasquerade and follow along on Instagram at @qmdarkharbor. Dark Masquerade will take place at The Queen Mary: 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802.

Haunted Lands Demo Trailer Released

The cursed burial grounds of Haunted Lands beckon you, as the demo is available now on Steam! Choose from six unique character classes that each suit a different playstyle, from mystical mages to ferocious beasts, acquire powerful artifacts to enhance your power tenfold, and slash your way through hordes of undead, twisted foes in this retro-inspired platformer developed by Alevgor and published by Alawar.

Hellish creatures lurk within the Haunted Lands, and only you can protect the sanctity of these burial grounds. Players can choose from a variety of different classes; Beast class is perfect for players who want to get up close and personal with foes, and spirit slayers who prefer to demolish from a distance may choose the Gunner class. Wish to wield both offensive spells and healing scrolls? The Mage class may be for you! Explore ancient crypts and tombs, and decimate the demons, cultists and more that stand in your way. The further you venture, the more intense bosses you’ll encounter.

Life Below Developer Q&A Trailer Released

Megapop, the studio behind the upcoming underwater city builder Life Below, has released a new developer video digging into one of its core questions: how do you turn real marine science into something that’s actually fun to play?

The video offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the team translated real-world marine biology into the core foundation of the game, how its difficulty responds to different playstyles, and why realism alone was never the goal.

Set in a fragile underwater ecosystem, Life Below challenges players to design and manage thriving sub-aquatic settlements while balancing growth, resource management, and the health of the surrounding reef.

“We brought in marine biologists who helped us out with some workshops where we got to ask a lot of stupid questions,” explains Lise Hagen Lie, Game Director with Megapop.

Those lessons shaped Life Below’s core systems, from reef construction to water parameters. But Megapop admit that in-game behaviour isn’t all true to science and that there needed to be a balance for entertainment sake. Hagen Lie explains, “For example, PH doesn’t work in reality, the way that we have it in our game. We had to gamify it a little bit”.

The development team goes on to discuss how fish were simulated, how they interact with each other and also how Life Below challenges different types of players.

“We designed the game in a way that can be played in different ways depending on your playstyle. If you’re a player that likes to take their time and sit back and relax, the experience in turn will be a little easier. But if you’re a player looking for more of a challenge, then you’d be developing your reef quicker and running into various difficulties and challenges much faster,” said Thor Palsson, Senior Game Designer.

Life Below is currently in development for PC. Players can watch the full developer video now and follow the project for future updates as development continues.

Aether & Iron Gameplay Trailer

Seismic Squirrel is thrilled to announce that Aether & Iron will launch on PC (Steam) in Spring 2026. This narrative-driven RPG invites players to step into the shoes of Gia, a smuggler navigating the dangerous underworld of an alternate 1930s New York City, featuring turn-based vehicular combat and storytelling from writers with credits on Mass Effect, Far Cry, and Sovereign Syndicate.

Aether & Iron takes place in an alternate 1930s New York transformed into a vertical city after the discovery of “aether” – a key component to newfound anti-gravitational technology. Customize and upgrade your fleet of aether-powered vehicles with weapons and armor, and recruit unique companions to watch your back, each armed with talents that can make all the difference. Your choices shape not just your path, but the city’s fate as well.

Level up your Hustle, Smarts, and Brass abilities to improve your chances in combat and social situations. As a simple job draws you into a conspiracy that threatens the whole city, you’ll reconnect with old friends, make new enemies, and determine whether New York’s citizens will find hope in this corrupt world.

Aether & Iron will be available on Steam in Spring 2026, in English, Spanish (Spain & Latin America), French, German, Polish, Russian, Brazilian Portuguese, and Simplified Chinese. Players can try a free demo now on Steam.

The Xenomorphs Conquer All in ALIEN: King Killer

ALIEN: KING KILLER, a new chapter in Marvel’s acclaimed Alien comic book storytelling begins this April, and it promises to deliver the darkest era of the Alien universe yet. The five-issue limited series by writer Saladin Ahmed (Wolverine) and artist Carlos Nieto (Ultimate Black Panther) will take place on a planet that’s already succumbed to Xenomorphs, a horrifying victory that pushes humanity to its limits and explores the ultimate cost of survival. Fans will also have a chance to dive deeper into the saga on Comics Giveaway Day™ on May 2 with a special prelude story by Ahmed and artist Emilio Laiso in ALIEN, PREDATOR & PLANET OF THE APES #1 CGD 2026.

When humanity has already lost the war against the Xenomorphs, what remains? Set on a planet overrun by the savage alien species, the dregs of humanity cling to the protection of the mysterious siblings known as the Three Kings. But these warlords have a fourth sibling who is out for revenge– and the humans’ remaining protectors are harboring secrets deadlier than the aliens outside their gates.

“I’m old enough to remember Aliens landing at the theaters after having watched Alien on Betamax, so I’ve been ready to tell stories in this universe for a good long while now,” Ahmed shared. “KING KILLER is more of an action story than pure horror, but it is centrally about the most fascinating question in the franchise: What makes a monster? I’m super excited for readers to join us for this weird, pulse pounding Alien story!”

Check out David Yardin’s terrifying main cover and preorder ALIEN: KING KILLER #1 at your local comic shop today!