Author - Jerry Paxton

Europa Universalis V: Official Announcement Trailer

A quarter century after the release of the historical grand strategy game that launched an empire, the Europa Universalis enters a dramatic new era with Europa Universalis V. Paradox Interactive’s flagship historical series about the early modern world is being updated with a fresh, new version for a new generation, a game that dares you to be ambitious.

Designed over five years by Paradox Tinto, Europa Universalis V builds on 25 years of tradition and experience to deliver the same captivating empire building and alternate histories that have been the hallmark of Paradox’s grand strategy games. Europa Universalis V has been crafted with the devoted Paradox fan in mind, incorporating feedback delivered by the fan community over a year of public discussion, and giving this dedicated audience a voice in the realization of this new vision.

Europa Universalis V draws inspiration from the latest generation of Paradox historical titles, expanding the range of possibilities available for the largest and most detailed Europa Universalis game ever made.

Features of Europa Universalis V include:

  • A New and Larger Map: Using a more accurate map projection to better reflect the size of the continents, Europa Universalis V lets you choose from any of hundreds of different societies. Start as a mighty emperor or a local chieftain or warlord anywhere on earth. A more detailed map allows for a greater number of nations and more varied topographical features.
  • A Longer Time Scale: The game’s campaign starts in 1337, the year of the opening of the Hundred Years’ War – the great struggle over the French crown that marked the zenith of the late Medieval era. Lead your nation through the Renaissance, the Enlightenment and other historical ages, choosing how you will adjust to an ever changing world.
  • Population Based System: Departing from the familiar province-focused system of earlier games in the series, Europa Universals V represents the population of each province in detail. Manage cultural and religious tensions in your realm, deal with estates as they wax and wane in power, and meet the basic and luxury demands of this varied population.
  • Thousands of Historical Events: Watch history unfold before you as the great moments of the past make their mark on your game. Dynamically responding to the game situation, these historical events challenge players to repeat or improve on the great accomplishments of the past.
  • Detailed Production and Trade System: Build farms, plantations, crafting buildings and factories to provide goods to satisfy your economic and military needs. Or, if your nation can’t provide the things you need, trade for them from neighboring nations.Some buildings require specific goods to be in supply, so you either invest in new industries or make a deal with your neighbors. Use roads, ports and fleets to expand your trading region and enrich your nation by managing the wealth of the world.
  • Design a Nation to Suit Your Situation: Adopt policies and laws to adapt to your situation as you discover new technologies and ideas. Move towards greater centralization or a looser power sharing arrangement. Build an army based on masses of manpower or a more elite professional force. Will you be tolerant of other faiths and cultures, or advocate for a single faith and single culture? A world of possibilities awaits you.
  • Deep Military and Diplomatic Systems: Dominate the world through either sword or pen. Rally mercenaries, levies or professional soldiers to your flag as you cut a blood path through history. But be careful! A bloody war fought with levies has a direct impact on your population. Consider a lighter touch, using royal marriages, trade treaties and alliances to expand your power and preserve peace.

Europa Universalis V will be coming soon from Paradox Interactive.

Universal Studios Hollywood Introduces Universal Mega Movie Summer Beginning Friday June 13

This summer, Universal Studios Hollywood will become movie buff central when iconic movies leap from the silver screen to the theme park as part of Universal Mega Movie Summer, an all-new seasonal event designed to offer guests the best summer day in L.A.  Debuting Friday, June 13 and continuing daily through Sunday, August 10, 2025, Universal Mega Movie Summer will create experiences for guests that redefine how they can “beat the heat,” “hang with friends” and “party in the park.”

With the addition of ingenious menu items, curated by Universal Studios Hollywood Executive Chef Julia Thrash and complemented by all-new collections of exclusive merchandise, including apparel and toys, Universal Mega Movie Summer will delight guests and fans with an array of exclusive in-world, themed offerings.

Highlights follow:

  • Jurassic World—The Ride Featuring Mosasaurus Splash, inspired by Universal Pictures’ highly-anticipated movie Jurassic World Rebirth opening in theaters on July 2, roars to life within the theme park’s popular dinosaur-laden thrill ride. The iconic 84-foot water drop at the ride’s finale will reverberate with the menacing roar of a Mosasaurus. Four new Spitter dinosaurs will join the melee and water geysers will erupt to shower guests.

An all-new adorable dinosaur from Jurassic World Rebirth will join Blue the Velociraptor, Juliet the Triceratops and Baby Tango. These highly realistic, lifelike dinosaurs will engage with guests alongside the debut of an all-new adventure character, also inspired by Jurassic World Rebirth. A larger-than-life photo op of a Spinosaurus dinosaur will welcome guests to step into a thrilling scene from the film for a memorable photo for instant social postings, and an inspiring scavenger hunt game featuring Compy will entertain visitors while keeping them on their toes.

Jurassic Cafe will serve up a sampling of new prehistoric delicacies, plus Isla Nubar will feature new cocktails, The Jurassic Water Rebirth and Spicy Jurassic Pearadise.

  • To mark the 50th Golden Anniversary of Jaws the movie, Universal Studios Hollywood is reintroducing its iconic hanging shark, a larger-than-life dimensional sculpture photo op, and paying homage to this Academy Award-winning blockbuster with the debut of meet and greet characters, Captain Quint and Chief Brody. On the Studio Tour, Jaws will be featured on the iconic Hollywood Sign replica, situated along the backlot hillside, and the infamous Jaws Lake attraction as it celebrates July 4th all summer long.

Hollywood & Dine, located just inside the theme park’s main entry, will transform into Amity Island Cafe, serving up a menu fit for a great white. Menu and beverage highlights will include Lobster Roll, Vegan Crab Cake Sandwich, Fish and Chips, Fish and Chicken Basket, Shark Bait Burger, Shark Fin Funnel Cake, Amity Island Parfait and Amity Beach Lifesaver Donut, as well as The Shark Bite cocktail and Amity Open Water, a non-alcoholic beverage.

  • To commemorate the 40th anniversary of the landmark film Back to the Future, the iconic Time Machine from the film will be staged on the theme park’s Upper Lot, adjacent to Mel’s Diner. Characters Doc Brown, Marty McFly and Einstein the dog will all be on hand and paw to greet guests and pose for timeless photo ops.

With its decades-old throwback sensibilities, Mel’s Diner idyllically captures the essence of Back to the Future, serving up such menu options as the Flux Capacitor Patty Melt, Time Machine Pastrami Melt, Doc Brown’s Chicken Pot Pie, Outatime Cookie, Time Traveler’s Milk Shake, Flux Capacitor Mocktail and Wake Up Juice Cocktail.

  • Guests and fans of Universal Pictures’ blockbuster Wicked will have a chance to rejoicify with popular characters, Elphaba and Glinda, when they step out in style to greet guests at the theme park’s existing vibrant Wicked themed photo op, located adjacent to the main entrance.
  • A sculpted dimensional photo op of Toothless from Universal Pictures and DreamWorks’ live action movie How to Train Your Dragon opening in theatres on June 13, will take center stage within Universal Plaza. This lifelike, 730-pound, larger-than-life sculpted dimensional dragon will tower at nearly 6’ in height, measuring 24’ in length and 8’ in width. Surprised guests posing next to Toothless will no doubt be able to imagine themselves soaring with their favorite dragon within the Isle of Berk.

dedicated food cart within Universal Plaza will serve scrumptious treats that only a dragon could devour, such as Toothless and Light Fury cookies and a Toothless popcorn bucket.

  • As construction continues on Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, Universal Studios Hollywood’s first-ever, high-speed outdoor roller coaster opening in 2026, the theme park will offer guests an exciting sneak peek at one of the ride vehicles for this all-new adventure. The Dodge Charger ride vehicle, designed to look like Dominic Toretto’s 1970 Dodge Charger, will park within Universal Plaza for guests to enjoy as the theme park races towards the roller coaster’s grand opening next year.

Universal CityWalk Hollywood is also toasting Universal Mega Movie Summer with a variety of entertainment and limited-time offerings. These include:

  • Voodoo Doughnut, featuring the cleverly named Doughnut Go In the Water inspired by Jaws, plus Little Stepper and Big Stepper treats inspired by Jurassic World Rebirth.
  • The Universal Studio Store and Cartooniversal will sell a variety of themed merchandise aligned with Universal Mega Movie Summer’s engaging entertainment.
  • Five Towers Stage will shake, rattle and roll with DJs and stage performances. Visit Universal CityWalk for more information and a schedule of events.
  • Universal Cinema, an AMC® Theatre, is the ideal location to catch the latest blockbusters, including How to Train Your Dragon and Jurassic World Rebirth, with an opportunity to see original movie costumes on display in the theatre lobby. Moviegoers will also have a chance to watch the original Back to the Future movie on the big screen with multiple screenings taking place on July 3. Universal Cinema is the only theatrical venue in the world to feature both a six-story 70MM IMAX® with 4K laser projection and the new PRIME at AMC® theater, featuring 4K laser projection, superior acoustics and heated, plush, recliner seats with built-in subwoofer technology.  Visit Universal Cinema for up-to-date screenings and times.

Universal Mega Movie Summer complements the slate of unprecedented groundbreaking attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood, including the interactive land, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, featuring the critically-acclaimed “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge” ride; “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™” highly immersive land that features Hogsmeade™ village, “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™ rides; “Jurassic World—The Ride; Illumination’s award-winning “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash and “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem; Springfield, U.S.A. and “The Simpsons Ride™”; “TRANSFORMERS™:  The Ride-3D and “Revenge of the Mummy—The Ride,” as well as the theme park’s signature, behind-the-scenes Studio Tour attraction.

For more information about Universal Studios Hollywood, visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com; follow @UniStudios on Instagram and X and like Universal Studios Hollywood on Facebook.

Razer Unveils Ergonomic Gaming Mouse and Keyboard for Gaming on the Go

Razer™, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, is revolutionizing mobile gaming with the launch of the Razer Basilisk Mobile and the Razer Joro. Designed to meet the needs of gamers on the go, these compact and feature-rich devices set a new benchmark for portable gaming gear without compromising on performance. 

Sized for convenience, the Razer Basilisk Mobile and Razer Joro are lightweight devices that combine a sleek design with robust functionality and gaming-grade performance. Whether battling it out in an online arena or exploring vast virtual worlds, gamers can now enjoy the same quality gaming experience on the road as they do at home. 

Razer Basilisk Mobile: Portable Ergonomic Precision 

Razer Basilisk Mobile

Inspired by the acclaimed Razer Basilisk line, the Razer Basilisk Mobile is designed for gamers seeking portability without compromising on comfort or precision. Weighing just 76g, the mouse boasts a compact, ergonomic design that supports extended hours of use, whether for work or play, yet easily fits into pockets or laptop sleeves. With an impressive battery life of up to 105 hours and versatile tri-mode connectivity, including Razer HyperSpeed Wireless, gamers can experience ultra-low latency and uninterrupted, lag-free gaming sessions while on the go. 

The Razer Basilisk Mobile offers 10 customizable controls, allowing gamers to tailor their setup to their exact preferences. This includes a new AI Prompt Master feature that enhances gameplay with smart tools, including efficient in-game search. With AI Prompt Master, gamers can unlock powerful shortcuts on Razer Synapse 4 and customize game strategies for a competitive edge. A Razer Focus X 18K Optical Sensor ensures 99.4% resolution accuracy, while Razer Optical Mouse Switches Gen-3 offer a 90 million click lifecycle, providing the mouse with precision, reliability, and speed. Powered by Razer HyperScroll Technology, a 4-way tilt scroll offers gamers the choice of two scrolling modes: Free-Spin for fast navigation, and Tactile Cycling for precise control. With its ultra-long battery life, top-tier scroll wheel, gaming-grade sensor, and more, travelling light has never packed such as big a punch.  

For more information, visit https://rzr.to/bsk-mobile.  

Razer Joro: Portable Precision, Gaming Perfection 

Razer Joro
Razer Joro

The Razer Joro is the ultimate ultra-portable wireless gaming keyboard, designed for seamless performance across multiple devices. At just 374 grams and 16.5 mm thin, it delivers effortless portability without sacrificing precision, making it Razer’s most portable keyboard to-date. 

Engineered for ultra-portability, the Razer Joro features a compact form factor with a function row and full-size arrow keys. Its ultra low-profile design promotes an ergonomic hand position, reducing strain for all-day gaming and work. The gaming-grade keys provide quick, precise actuation and satisfying tactile feedback, complemented by UV-coated ABS keycaps for durability. 

For those who demand high performance, gamers can activate Snap Tap mode for more responsive counter-strafing and aerial strafing for bunny hopping in FPS games, allowing faster input activation between two selected keys without releasing the previous key. Convenient shortcuts and fully programmable keys offer full customization and control, enabling gamers to effortlessly remap, configure Razer Hypershift, and set up macros through Razer Synapse 4. 

The Razer Joro supports Apple devices with secondary keys featuring Mac legends for seamless integration with macOS, iPadOS, and iOS devices. A dedicated Microsoft Copilot Key provides quick access to AI assistance, enhancing productivity on Windows devices. Wireless multi-device pairing via Bluetooth 5.0 allows gamers to easily switch between up to three devices.  

With an ultra-long battery life of up to 1,800 hours, gamers can stay in the game longer, whether on desktop or portable devices. Additionally, the Razer Joro features a single-zone Razer Chroma™ RGB lighting, allowing personalization with 16.8 million colors and a suite of effects for a visually stunning and immersive gaming experience on the go. 

From intense gaming sessions at a café to whiling away time between flights at the airport, the Razer Basilisk Mobile and Razer Joro are the ultimate travel companions for gamers to experience the freedom to game at their best, wherever they are. 

For more information about the Razer Joro, please visit https://rzr.to/joro.

Dungeons & Dragons Eberron: Forge of the Artificer Teaser Trailer

Prepare to return to Eberron, where magic meets wondrous inventions! Pre-orders for Eberron: Forge of the Artificer kicked off today ahead of the adventure’s US release on August 19, 2025. A new trailer released today shares additional details.

Eberron: Forge of the Artificer will feature:

  • The revised Artificer class, redesigned for the new Core Rules
  • (40) player options, including playable species like the mechanical Warforged
  • (4) updated Artificer subclasses and (1) new subclass, the Cartographer
  • (5) revised species, (18) backgrounds, and (28) feats, including the redesigned Dragonmarks
  • (20) new monsters, each inspired by one of three campaign models
  • New spells, bastions, and magic items

In addition to the core product, the Eberron: Forge of the Artificer Ultimate Bundle is also available for pre-order and includes the Artificer’s Forge Digital Dice Set and the Eberron Expeditions Digital Maps Pack.

Pre-order the digital edition or Ultimate Bundle to unlock the exclusive Airships of Eberron Digital Dice Set.

Razer Unveils Clio Audio Gaming Chair Accessory

Razer™, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today unveiled the Razer Clio, an innovative gaming chair accessory designed to deliver headset-like immersive audio without the constraints of wearing one.

Surround sound can often be complex, but with Razer Clio, use it as a standalone primary speaker, delivering powerful and clear audio on its own, or pair it with your existing front speakers on Synapse 4 to enjoy a richer surround sound experience.

Equipped with integrated near-field dual speakers that direct soundwaves straight to the ears, the Razer Clio delivers maximal acoustic performance over stereo speakers, ensuring clear sound without distortion, even outside the ‘sweet spot’. This creates a fully immersive sound experience for gaming, watching movies, or listening to music.

Gamers will enjoy a full-bodied soundscape that blends seamlessly into their setup, providing optimal performance and enjoyment without the need for headsets.

Key Features

  • Immersion: THX® Spatial Audio takes immersion to new heights with acoustic widening modes for hyper-realism. Entertainment comes to life from every angle with advanced THX immersive audio and two 43mm full-range drivers, delivering dynamic, high-fidelity sound for a hyper-realistic listening experience.
  • Compatibility: Integrated near-field dual speakers deliver high-quality audio and an immersive gaming experience, similar to wearing a headset but without the fatigue. Angled speakers direct sound straight to the ears for an intimate listening experience. Use the Razer Clio as a standalone primary speaker or pair it with existing speakers as a rear speaker to create a dynamic 5.1 surround sound experience that enhances gameplay and entertainment.
  • Connectivity: Connect wirelessly across devices for ultra-low-latency PC and console gaming with Razer HyperSpeed Wireless, or switch to Bluetooth for compatibility with Android and iOS devices.
  • Form Factor: Plush memory foam head cushion features thick, dense foam that balances support and comfort to cradle the head and neck for a comfortable listening experience. With adjustable nylon straps, the Razer Clio is compatible with high-back gaming chairs.
  • Battery life: Gamers can enjoy unparalleled audio freedom with up to 14 hours of battery life, providing uninterrupted entertainment on a single charge.

In line with Razer’s #GoGreenWithRazer movement and commitment to a sustainable future, the Razer Clio charges with a standard USB-C cable, encouraging users to reuse existing cables. Consequently, no USB-C charging cable will be included in the box, furthering efforts to decarbonize Razer’s products.

The Razer Clio represents a significant advancement in gaming audio technology, offering a versatile and immersive solution for gamers seeking high-quality sound without the limitations of traditional headsets. With its innovative design and commitment to sustainability, the Razer Clio is set to redefine the gaming audio experience.

For more information, please visit https://rzr.to/clio

Titan Quest II Delays Early Access to Summer 2025

Today, Grimlore Games and THQ Nordic shared another update on the development of Titan Quest II, revealing both community insights from the recent playtest and a revised Early Access timeline.

Originally slated for a Winter 2024/2025 release, Titan Quest II will now launch in Early Access in Summer 2025. The decision comes in response to a crowded ARPG release window and a desire to give the game the spotlight it deserves.

The team at Grimlore expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming response to their recent demo playtest. With thousands of players participating, streaming, and filling out surveys, over 92% rated their experience as positive or very positive. Particularly encouraging was the feedback from long-time Titan Quest fans, who praised the game for capturing the spirit of the original while pushing forward with modernized systems.

Players explored the game’s introductory chapter, choosing from dual Masteries and facing off against the first boss, Appollonia the Terrible – a fight that turned out to be a fan favorite. Visuals and audio received standout marks, with average scores of 5.25/6 and 5.16/6 respectively, while exploration and environmental storytelling were frequently highlighted as memorable features.

That said, the team acknowledges areas that need refinement. Combat fluidity, ability aiming, and balance are already being addressed, and performance optimizations will continue. New improvements, including customizable control schemes and enhanced UI indicators, are already underway based on community suggestions.

Grimlore Games reaffirmed their commitment to delivering a true successor to Titan Quest, one that respects its legacy while evolving for a new generation of players. The developers are actively implementing feedback and fine-tuning features ahead of Early Access.

For further details on Titan Quest II, please refer to our latest updates: https://thqn.net/3KqqyXQ

For a deep dive into various Titan Quest II topics check out the previous dev diaries:
Gameplay details: https://thqn.net/47aCxU6
Sparta: https://thqn.net/TQIISparta
The Ichthians: https://thqn.net/Ichthians
Music: https://t.co/ubWkEjBdIr
World Design: https://t.co/tkrKph57GA
Mythical Creatures: https://thqn.net/3JEDTeD
Mythological Level Design: https://thqn.net/3xPwvuI

Spirit of the North 2 Official Launch Trailer

The wait is over. Spirit of the North 2, the breathtaking sequel to the beloved Nordic folklore adventure, is out now digitally on PC via Steam, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S/X, and in a spellbinding PC and PlayStation 5 physical Signature Edition for collectors.

Developed by Infuse Studio and published by Silver Lining Interactive, Spirit of the North 2 is the Stray of fox games! This long-awaited continuation of the mystical saga invites players to answer the call of the wild and step into a world of ancient legends, primal magic, and timeless wonder, where a lone fox and its raven companion must restore balance to the realm.

RailGods of Hysterra Early Access Launch Trailer

RailGods of Hysterra, the cooperative base-building survival action RPG set in a twisted Lovecraftian dreamscape from developer Troglobytes Games and first-time publisher Digital Vortex Entertainment, launches today on PC via Steam Early Access for $19.99, with a 10% introductory offer available for a limited time.

RailGods of Hysterra is a Lovecraftian online co-op survival action game where up to 5 players build a mobile base on a living, sentient train known as the RailGod. It offers deep crafting, base-building, and progression systems — all set against a dark, atmospheric backdrop.

What’s New in Early Access

  • Main Quests – Now tied more closely to crafting, building, and combat systems.
  • Dark Gifts – Unlocked through a deeper loop involving Sacrifices and other mechanics.
  • Improved Ranged Combat – Better targeting, projectile behavior, and responsiveness.
  • Inventory Filters & Optimization – Faster, cleaner inventory and storage management.
  • Polished Combat Feedback – Updated VFX, animations, and hit reactions.
  • Madness Level Gameplay – New strategic elements linked to Madness progression.
  • Connected Chests – Access all storage across the train from any location.
  • Corrupted RailGod Gameplay – New boss fight and unique corrupted interactions.
  • Craft & Build from Anywhere – Use resources from all train containers and inventory.

“With RailGods of Hysterra entering Early Access, we are opening the gates to a world shaped by madness, mystery, and imagination,” said Digital Vortex CEO and Co-Founder Alex Izotov. “As Digital Vortex’s first published title, this is a journey we’re deeply proud of, and we can’t wait to build the rest of it together with our players.”

“We believe in crafting an experience for players and with the players! Something vast, mysterious, and beautiful; a small glitter of the multifaceted Lovecraft’s narrative universe. The release of RailGods of Hysterra in Early Access marks the beginning of our shared journey into an unknown and spectacular realm, awaiting the contributions of those ready to leave their marks and shape a truly unforgettable experience,” said Saverio Caporusso, CEO and Lead Designer at Troglobytes Games.

Deck of Haunts Official Launch Trailer

DANGEN Entertainment and Mantis Games are excited to announce that Deck of Haunts, the roguelike deckbuilder that puts you in control of a vengeful haunted house, has officially launched today on PC (Steam). To celebrate the release, the teams have unveiled a brand-new launch trailer that beckons players to embrace their inner villain and head into the madness.

Critics are already singing the game’s twisted praises:

“A hauntingly addictive deck-building roguelite that had me hooked for hours on end!” ​

​- Central Comics

“A deckbuilder where you play as a haunted house is such a brilliant idea.” ​

– PC Gamer

“Deck of Haunts makes you a literal haunted house in a fun twist on deckbuilding roguelikes.”

– PCGamesN

“Deck of Haunts is a roguelike deckbuilder where you play as a malicious haunted house, and everyone should play it. It’s utter bliss.”

​- VICE

“A delightfully ghoulish roguelike that lets you build your own haunted house.”

– Tech-Gaming.com

“Insanely gleeful, grim, and impossible to put down.”

– The Gaming Outsider

I Hate This Place Teaser Trailer

Broken Mirror Games, in partnership with Skybound Entertainment, has announced that I Hate This Place – the upcoming isometric, open-world survival horror game will make its first public appearance at PAX East 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts, USA.

A hands-on playable demo will be available to the public at Booth #15078 as part of the Games From Poland collective.

Inspired by Skybound’s Eisner award-nominated comic book series created by writer Kyle Starks and artist Artyom Topilin, I Hate This Place plunges players deep into a supernatural world where the rules of reality come undone. In an all-new isometric survival horror experience, delivered in a striking visual style drenched in bold, vivid colours and retro ‘80s comic book aesthetics, each location is lovingly crafted to tell its own disturbing story through stylish visuals that blur the line between reality and nightmare in a world where everything wants you dead.

Players take on the role of Elena, whose fight for survival begins when she unwittingly awakens a malevolent force. Outmatched and hunted in a hostile world, players must think fast, manipulating their surroundings to even the odds against formidable foes, engaging in tense gunfights and melee combat that rewards ingenuity over brute force, all while crafting essential tools to survive the harsh and unforgiving wilderness long enough to reach safehouses before nightfall, with the day & night cycle having an impact on gameplay dynamics. Whatever you do though, avoid the Horned Man at all costs.

I Hate This Place will launch on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch. The Game is set to launch in Q4 of 2025 and is available to Wishlist now.