Author - Jerry Paxton

Leaf Blower Co. Demo Announcement Trailer

Leaf Blower Co., the relaxing outdoor cleaning simulator from developer LifT Games and publisher Forklift Interactive, revs up for its first demo available now on PC via Steam.

Set in a quiet town in New England, players will find themselves at the beginning of their Leaf Blowing career, having just come home to set up their own business. Across the full story mode, you’ll explore a variety of locales, each with hidden easter eggs to hunt and optional objectives to complete, alongside your standard leaf-blowing duties.

On top of that, you’ll find yourself sorting out problems beyond just leaves, whether that’s boxes, coconuts, or anything else that a trusty leaf blower might be a helpful tool for clearing away. And of course, Fall is a fickle mistress – while you’ll be seeing your share of warm sunny days, you’ll also be working through rain, fog, and even snow as you find that weather makes all the difference to the job!

“As soon as we came to Leaf Blowing as the core mechanic, we never looked back. We hope people find it as fun and calming to do as we do, whether that’s for a quick 20 minutes or hours on end!” remarked Seán Forsyth, developer at LifT Games.

Alongside the main jobs in your leaf-blowing career, you can always take a break in your schedule to seek out a side job as well. While your regular clients will be at specific locations and have their own requirements, you’ll find the side jobs are much more adaptable to the mood you’re in. Fancy heading to the tennis courts in the sunshine for a leisurely afternoon session? Or maybe the soft patter of rain and a nighttime option at the museum is more your speed?

Then again, an early morning blizzard on the beach would be bracing as well! Unlocking new locations, tools, and skills as you play through the main story jobs, your options only grow over time. And hey, why not spend some of your hard-earned cash from all this work on new skins for your tools? Nothing wrong with looking your best and having fun while you do.

The demo of Leaf Blower Co. includes three full story levels, multiple unlockable tools and skills, and of course, the ability to play levels your way – choosing the location, weather conditions, and the time of day that suits you. And it’s only a fraction of what’s to come in the full game!

Leaf Blower Co.’s first demo is available today on PC via Steam. For more information, check out the official website, follow @LiftIndie and @forkliftgames on Twitter.

Out of Sight Launches Today on PC, Consoles, and VR

Starbreeze Entertainment and The Gang are proud to announce that Out of Sight, a unique and spine-chilling narrative adventure, is available now on Steam, Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and will be coming to Nintendo Switch this June.

For the bravehearted in virtual reality, Out of Sight VR developed by Flat2VR is also launching today on Steam VR, with Meta Quest and PlayStation VR2 versions coming soon.

In Out of Sight, players take on the role of Sophie, a young girl with blindness navigating a haunted mansion with the help of her beloved teddy bear. Having regained sight through Teddy, Sophie’s survival means relying on instinct, sound, and Teddy’s guidance to uncover the secrets lurking in the dark.

Presented in a unique second-person perspective, players will guide both Sophie and Teddy through an unsettling world full of mystery, illusion, and danger. Do you have what it takes to help Sophie escape?

“What started as a student project has grown into something far bigger than we ever imagined,” offers Anna Erlandsson, Media and Community Lead at The Gang. “We’re incredibly proud to share Out of Sight with the world – a deeply personal, eerie, and emotionally resonant game that invites players to see things differently. Watching Sophie and Teddy’s story come to life has been a joy, and we can’t wait for players to experience it for themselves.”

Indeed, the origins of Out of Sight trace back to a final exam project, developed by a small team of students at Sweden’s Futuregames academy. What began as a short prototype – born out of a desire to explore bold, unconventional storytelling – lingered in the minds of those who played it. Over time, the idea grew into a full-fledged game, driven by a deep belief in the power of perspective and innovation in game design.

“I still remember the first time I saw the prototype – it was short, raw, and absolutely unforgettable,” adds André Persson, CMO at Starbreeze. “We fell in love with the team’s creative vision and the emotional impact of their second-person concept. Out of Sight is the kind of project that reminds us why we love games: it’s inventive, personal, and made with heart. We knew we had to help bring it to life.”

In Out of Sight you’ll encounter:

  • A Unique Perspective: Experience horror from a second-person point of view as you see through Teddy’s eyes and guide Sophie through the unknown.
  • Without Sight, but Not Without Hope: Solve puzzles and overcome terrifying obstacles using only sound, feel, and instinct.
  • A Mansion of Secrets: Piece together the chilling story buried within the mansion’s walls. Unravel its tragic past and uncover the events that turned it into a place of nightmares.
  • Psychological Discomfort: Not all is as it seems. The line between reality and illusion is razor-thin, and your senses may betray you.
  • Survival Above All: Avoid your relentless captors and uncover the secrets of your capture. Will you discover the truth and break free, or become a lost soul trapped forever?

Out of Sight is available now on Steam, Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, as well as Steam VR, for $24.99/€24.99/£20.99.

Fallout 76: Gone Fission Launch Trailer Released

Dust off your fishing boots because Fallout 76: Gone Fission launches on June 3. Available free for all Fallout 76 players, this fin-tastic update brings the highly anticipated, relaxing summer pastime to the Wasteland – fishing. Players can look forward to exploring places to cast out around Appalachia as well as a questline to secure their first Fishing Rod and a school of new in-game content and rewards.

Watch the trailer of the upcoming Season 21: Gone Fission here:

With this new update, anywhere players can swim, they can fish. Different bait, weather conditions, fishing rods, and locations will spawn new fish types, so anglers can try various combinations to hook a variety of catches—common fish, one of 12 prized Axolotls available each month, and Local Legends (the fish to write home about). Fish can be eaten to restore Health and Hunger, or converted into Fish Bits and cooked into recipes for additional effects. Players can also share a snack with Linda-Lee, the giant hermit crab of Fishermen’s Rest, to receive a Legendary item.

Casting out in tandem is Season 21: Gone Fission. This season comes with new fishing challenges, which when completed will reward players with fishing rod upgrades and scaly new C.A.M.P. items. Additional details on Season 21 can be found here.

Fallout 76: Gone Fission will be available on Steam, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PlayStation 5 and 4 on June 3. Fallout 76 is also available on Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus Extra.

Arma Reforger Update 1.4 Brings Mod Support to PlayStation 5

Bohemia Interactive is excited to announce the release of Update 1.4 for Arma Reforger, marking a major milestone for the game on PlayStation 5 with the arrival of full mod support.

For the first time since the game’s launch on PS5 late last year, players can now browse, download, and play community-made content directly from the in-game Workshop. This includes custom game modes, weapons, vehicles, terrains, and more!

The modding community has always been at the heart of the Arma experience. Now, with cross-platform compatibility, players across all platforms can seamlessly enjoy modded content and fight together on the battlefield.

While the spotlight is on PS5 mod support, this update also rolls out on other platforms to ensure cross-play stability, and implement bug fixes and optimizations.

Youtubers Life 3 – Stream Together! Out Now

UPLAY Online is proud to announce the official launch of Youtubers Life 3 – Stream Together!, the third installment of the beloved content creator simulation franchise played by millions worldwide. Available now for PC via Steam in Early Access, Youtubers Life 3 – Stream Together! brings the influencer sim to new heights with a vibrant, real-time multiplayer world where players can rise to fame, connect with others, and build their own communities.

Youtubers Life 3 invites players to join a global community of budding content creators all trying their best at streaming through thrilling livestreaming card battles, VOD creation to craft the best viral videos, and photography to capture memorable moments at home, with friends or at events, with all three of these activities featuring their very own live global leaderboards, so you can be the best, or beat them!

The franchise’s third instalment also invites players to build communities with creativity. Share your journey by meeting other players at weekly in-game events, chatting, building friendships, sharing items, snapping pictures, or teaming up for card battles. Build lasting communities within the game, making every moment a chance to grow your channel and your circle. Whether you’re chasing clout or forging bonds, every choice shapes your unique path to influencer greatness!

Key Features Include:

  • From Humble Worker to Top of the Global Leaderboards: Start your career as a content creator for a firm, make enough money to buy your first set up, and start growing your channel! Subscriber count matters more than ever, so where will you place?
  • Dynamic Online World: Immerse yourself in a vibrant, real-time multiplayer universe where you can stream content, create VODs, and capture photos to climb the global leaderboards, while connecting with players at weekly events, chatting, trading items, and building your own community through friendships and shared experiences.
  • Career Progression and Content Variety: Attend events, stream clients’ games, and broadcast everything from Just Chatting to RPGsSimulatorsRacersShooters, and more.
  • Customizable Character and Living Spaces: Choose from a ton of free customizables, from the clothes you wear to your streaming gear, tattoos, and of course, design your dream streamer house.
  • Brand Deals & Fame Events: Score sponsorships, attend exclusive events, and unlock premium perks as your fame grows.
  • Grow your business: Upgrade your gear, from better PCs to the latest consoles, and hire professional staff to manage your empire, ensuring your growth is as exponential as your views.
  • Livestreaming Battles: Engage in strategic multiplayer card battles where you compete or collaborate with real streamers, using attack and defense cards, Wit points, and powerful reactions to steal viewers, sabotage rivals, or protect your audience.

Grab your own copy of Youtubers Life 3 today on Steam for the price of $19,99/ €19,99.

Logitech G Unveils G522 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset

Logitech G, a brand of Logitech (SIX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI) and a leading innovator of gaming and sim racing technologies and gear, today announced the launch of the Logitech G522 Gaming Headset, a new addition to its award-winning G5 series, designed to elevate both gameplay and personal expression.

Logitech G announces the new Logitech G522 Gaming Headset, an addition to its award-winning G5 series, designed to elevate both gameplay and personal expression.

“G522 was made for gamers who bring passion and personality to everything they do,” said Ujesh Desai, vice president and general manager of Logitech G. “Whether you’re climbing the ranks, streaming for your audience, or pulling all-night gaming sessions, the G522 ups your game with top-tier performance, features, and style.”

G522 builds on the strong foundation of the widely popular Logitech G733 headset, carrying its legacy further while introducing an exciting evolution. At first glance, the family resemblance is clear, but as you look closer, the G522 reveals a fresh, elevated design. It’s all about progression – sleeker curves, a more sophisticated silhouette, and thoughtful design choices that reflect a modern take on performance and style. The sharper edges of the G733 have been transitioned into smooth, flowing lines showcasing a refined aesthetic.

“The G522 headset is the result of meticulous craftsmanship and a relentless attention to detail, every element is intentionally designed to deliver a curated, premium experience,” said Ahmed Riaz, Head of Design at Logitech G. “It builds on a proven formula for success that’s become synonymous with our G5 Series products, combining precision engineering with a deep understanding of what today’s gamers value most.”

G5 Series gamers play a wide variety of games. As a result, the new G522 headset had to perform to the level of the most discerning core gamers and be flexible enough to work seamlessly across all genres and types of gameplay.

Designed for long sessions, G522 delivers a significant leap forward in comfort, engineered with community feedback at its core. The ear cups have been redesigned with a wider shape and an added layer of memory foam to enhance cushioning and cooling, wrapped in a new fabric that’s both softer and more durable. A reversible suspension band now rests flatter and more evenly across the head, with added ridges to increase breathability and upgraded materials for extended durability. To ensure all-day comfort for every gamer, our player fit tests included individuals who wear glasses or earrings, making the G522 a headset built for everyone.

At the heart of the headset are new synchronized PRO-G drivers that deliver Logitech G’s highest-fidelity, paired with 48 kHz/24-bit digital signal processing for unparalleled immersion and precision. Gamers can hear subtle in-game cues—like distant footsteps or weapon reloads—with crystal clarity.

Communication is critical in competitive and online play, and the G522’s 48 kHz/16-bit microphone, enhanced by BLUE VO!CE technology ensures your voice cuts through the chaos. Customize your microphone audio with real-time filters and effects, delivering a professional sound for every session.

The G522 offers tri-mode connectivity, allowing seamless switching between LIGHTSPEED wireless, Bluetooth, and USB-C. It’s built for fluid transitions between platforms, PC, console, and mobile, without the lag or hassle.

G HUB software and the Logitech G mobile app allow gamers to fine-tune their audio with a 10-band EQ, personalize LIGHTSYNC RGB, adjust mic settings, and save up to three custom profiles directly to the headset.

Continuing Logitech G’s commitment to reducing environmental impact, the G522 is crafted with 27% post-consumer recycled plastic and low-carbon aluminum, aligning performance with purpose.

Availability

The Logitech G522 Gaming Headset is available now in black and white at LogitechG.com and select retailers worldwide for a suggested retail price of USD 159.99.

New Turtle Beach Spring 2025 Gaming Accessories Now Available

Leading gaming accessories maker Turtle Beach Corporation (Nasdaq: TBCH) today announced the brand’s new officially licensed by Nintendo and Designed for Xbox gaming headsets and controllers are now available globally. For gamers on the Nintendo Switch™, Nintendo Switch™ Lite, and Nintendo Switch™ – OLED Model systems, these new accessories include the Turtle Beach® Recon™ 70 and Turtle Beach® Airlite™ Fit wired gaming headsets, as well as the Turtle Beach® Rematch™ Invincible Mario and Turtle Beach® Rematch™ Super Mario™ Star wireless controllers. For gamers on Xbox and Windows PC, there are two new Designed for Xbox wired controller options, including the Turtle Beach® Afterglow™ Wave RGB controller and Turtle Beach® Rematch™ Core controller – each available in five different colorways.

“Our latest Designed for Xbox and officially licensed by Nintendo gaming accessories reinforces Turtle Beach’s ongoing leadership in gaming headsets and controllers,” said Cris Keirn, CEO, Turtle Beach Corporation. “These exciting new products deliver top features and strengthen our best-selling lineups with new entry-level and mid-range options at attractive price points.”

All new gaming headsets and controller models – 16 in total – are globally available directly from www.turtlebeach.com and at participating retailers. Expanded details for each of Turtle Beach’s new gaming headsets and controllers are below:

Turtle Beach Recon 70 Wired Gaming Headset for Nintendo Switch

Built for your next victory, your latest achievement, and much more, the Turtle Beach Recon 70 gaming headset is now officially licensed for the Nintendo Switch family of systems. Turtle Beach’s lightweight and comfortable headset is designed for hours of play, with high-quality 40mm speakers and premium over-ear synthetic leather cushions for an immersive gaming experience. Turtle Beach’s renowned high-sensitivity mic ensures voice chat is heard clearly and easily flips up to mute. Finally, the versatile 3.5mm connection is perfect for all Nintendo Switch systems. Available for $39.99/£29.99/€34.99 MSRP.

Turtle Beach Airlite Fit Wired Gaming Headset for Nintendo Switch

Enjoy a superior level of gaming and comfort with the new Turtle Beach Airlite Fit wired gaming headset for Nintendo Switch systems. Officially licensed and expertly designed in-house, this headset delivers finely tuned audio through high-quality 40mm speakers, providing an immersive experience for both casual and competitive gamers alike. The elevated over-ear jersey knit cushions offer exceptional comfort, letting gamers hear every crisp high and deep low while effectively blocking out external noise. The sleek, noise-canceling microphone ensures voice chat is heard clearly and can be flipped up to mute it. The versatile 3.5mm audio connection is fully compatible with the Nintendo Switch family of systems. Available for $27.99/£19.99/€24.99 MSRP.

Turtle Beach Rematch Wireless Controllers for Nintendo Switch

Recently given a 9/10 review score from MP1st.com, the Rematch Invincible Mario wireless controller for the Nintendo Switch family of systems places a burst of power-up-inspired retro charm into gamers’ hands, while the Rematch Super Mario™ Star design supercharges gaming sessions by making every move shine! Both new models brighten up the darkest of gaming rooms with glow-in-the-dark designs after exposure to light. For long gaming sessions, gamers will appreciate the up to 40-hour rechargeable battery and up to 30-foot wireless range to play comfortably from anywhere in the room. Gamers playing on the Nintendo Switch systems can fully immerse themselves into their favorite games like Mario Kart™ 8 Deluxe with built-in motion controls. Two mappable buttons enhance in-game actions. Available for $59.99/£49.99/€59.99 MSRP.

Designed for Xbox Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave Wired Controllers

Unlock elevated gaming performance and style with the Designed for Xbox Turtle Beach Afterglow Wave RGB Gaming Controller for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and Windows PCs. Featuring Hall Effect 3-stop adjustable triggers, Xbox gamers can adjust trigger sensitivity and enjoy smooth, precise, and durable control. Gamers can also customize their controller’s style with intelligent RGB lighting, offering millions of color combinations, with eight unique lighting zones and four different preset modes available on the controller, plus four additional presets available in the Control Hub companion app. Players can customize their gameplay with two mappable quick-action buttons, keeping essential commands within close reach. Stay locked in with patented D-pad audio controls, allowing for instant adjustments to game/chat volume mix and master volume, plus a dedicated mic mute button. Additionally, download the Control Hub companion app for Xbox consoles & Windows PCs for advanced customization options for lighting, button mapping, as well as controller configuration and diagnosis. Dual rumble motors and impulse triggers provide immersive, responsive feedback, and an ergonomic shape with laser-etched, textured grips ensures a fatigue-free feel. The Afterglow Wave controller’s 10ft USB-C wired connection ensures reliable, lag-free gaming. Available for $49.99/£34.99/€44.99 MSRP.

Designed for Xbox Turtle Beach Rematch Core Wired Controllers

Experience game-enhancing control and precision with the Designed for Xbox Turtle Beach Rematch Core wired controller for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows PCs. Enjoy seamless audio adjustments on-the-fly with patented audio controls integrated in the D-pad, including game/chat mix and master volume, plus a dedicated mic mute button. Designed for comfort, the ergonomic shape ensures a fatigue-free grip during extended gaming sessions. Dual rumble motors and impulse triggers deliver responsive and immersive feedback for enhanced gameplay. The Rematch Core controller is equipped with a reliable 8ft USB-C connection for uninterrupted gaming. For quick and easy controller configuration and diagnosis, download the Control Hub companion app, available on Xbox consoles and Windows PCs. Available for $29.99/£24.99/€29.99 MSRP.

For more information on the latest Turtle Beach products and accessories, visit www.turtlebeach.com and be sure to follow Turtle Beach on TikTokTwitterInstagram, Facebook and YouTube.

About Turtle Beach Corporation

Turtle Beach Corporation (the “Company”) (www.turtlebeachcorp.com) is one of the world’s leading gaming accessory providers. The Company’s namesake Turtle Beach brand (www.turtlebeach.com) is known for designing best-selling gaming headsets, top-rated game controllers, award-winning PC gaming peripherals, and groundbreaking gaming simulation accessories. Innovation, first-to-market features, a broad range of products for all types of gamers, and top-rated customer support  have made Turtle Beach a fan-favorite brand and the market leader in console gaming audio for over a decade. Turtle Beach Corporation acquired Performance Designed Products LLC (www.pdp.com) in 2024. Turtle Beach’s shares are traded on the Nasdaq Exchange under the symbol: TBCH.

Anno 117: Pax Romana – Gameplay Showcase Trailer

Today, Ubisoft revealed Anno 117: Pax Romana’s first gameplay details as the genre-defining builder franchise returns with its most ambitious installment yet and one of the biggest games ever made about the Roman Empire.

Players will embark in journey as a freshly appointed governor, sent by the Emperor to build and lead several provinces across the Empire, from the beautiful heartlands of Latium to the mysterious Celtic wetlands of Albion, where no civilized Roman wants to be. Anno 117: Pax Romana will launch in Winter of 2025 simultaneously on PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X | S, Amazon Luna, as well as Windows PC through Steam, the Epic Games Store, and Ubisoft Connect.

BECOME A LEGENDARY ROMAN GOVERNOR 

Players will be able to build the cities of their dreams during the height of the Roman Empire. From where to place their starting villa to how diligently they send taxes back to Rome, players must balance their people’s needs with their emperor’s demands. Cooperate with other governors through trade and diplomacy or—if they prefer—prove their military prowess by challenging rivals with strategic land battles and modular naval combat. They may even defy the Emperor himself—but not without consequences.

CHOOSE THE FATE OF YOUR PROVINCES 

Every choice players make as governor matters. Will players embrace local Celtic culture or impose Roman traditions? From architectural styles to which gods to worship, the degree to which players Romanize their provinces is up to them. Will they foster growth through diplomacy and deep economic ties or expand their territory through military might? And will they loyally serve the Emperor or foment rebellion? Their decisions will shape not only the future of their citizens and their provinces, but their own story as well. 

EXPERIENCE THE PREMIER BUILDER GAME 

Players build their provinces with unprecedented scale, detail, and flexibility. From kids chasing dogs through the streets to thousands cheering on the spectacles of the colosseum, players will take their provinces from a single settlement to multiple eternal cities across several provinces. From islands on the horizon to distant mountains, players can build upon almost any terrain they see— all with a graphical quality that is the benchmark for the genre. 

Developed by Ubisoft Mainz, Anno 117: Pax Romana is a premiere builder game in which every facet of your city can be controlled; and how players will choose to build and  govern will shape their story, their citizens’ destiny, and their  provinces’ future. In this immersive and authentic world, where the cost of peace is for players to decide.

Anno 117: Pax Romana will be released in winter of 2025 with cross-play and cross-progression on PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X | S, Amazon Luna as well as Windows PC through Steam, the Epic Games Store and Ubisoft Connect.

For more information about Anno 117: Pax Romana, and to stay up to date regarding future live phases, please visit the Anno Union website.

For the latest news on Anno 117: Pax Romana and other Ubisoft games, please visit news.ubisoft.com.

Modiphius Launches New Core Rulebook for Fallout: Factions

Modiphius Entertainment has today launched a new core rulebook for its miniature skirmish game, Fallout: Factions, which is now available from its webstore.

This rulebook expands the game’s available factions from the Battle for Nuka-World starter set, which featured the three raider gangs from Fallout 4’s popular DLC. The new hardback rulebook contains everything players need to know to fight for the Wasteland, teaching them the rules of play, the in-depth campaign system, and showcasing the iconic factions of Fallout from the Brotherhood of Steel and super mutants to survivors and raiders. Combined with the Fallout: Factions ‘Battle for Nuka-World’ Starter Set, or the Fallout: Factions – Tokens and Terrain Pack 1 (coming soon), players will have everything they need to pick a faction and start their journey to rule their corner of the Wasteland.

Available for £30 / $37 from the Modiphius webstore, the 112-page full-colour hardcover Fallout: Factions Core Rulebook features:

  • An introduction to wargaming, and all you’ll need to play Fallout: Factions.
  • The core rules you need to play the fast-playing, high-risk, high-reward tabletop skirmish wargame.
  • How to set up a game, with an overview of the in-depth scenario system that keeps each game interesting.
  • The Story Phase: Details for growing your crew and ascending to legend – or what to do if you end up a footnote in another crew’s story.
  • Faction lists for the Brotherhood of Steel, Super Mutants, Survivors, Raiders, as well as their Weapons, Perks, Legends of the Wasteland and more.

Whilst the Fallout: Factions – ‘Battle For Nuka-World’ Starter Set is set in a small and specific area, this book gives players the tools and factions to set their campaign anywhere in the Wasteland. The games of Fallout: Factions will use the same rules, with the biggest changes affecting crews off the battlefield.

The expanded rules see four new Factions added into the game – Brotherhood of Steel, super mutants, survivors and raiders. Hazards and Facilities have also been added, allowing crews to customize their Home Turfs. Specific scenarios have been replaced with Objectives and Hazards, which can be merged into hundreds of combinations to make each game feel unique. New Legends of the Wasteland are available to hire before each game, and the story phase has been updated to make campaigns more expansive and interwoven. Plus, players will be able to upgrade weapons, purchase chems, and unlock new perks for their crew.

Bear McCreary’s Themes & Variations Tour arrives in North America

Stellar film, television, and video game music composer Bear McCreary follows his successful Themes & Variations concert tour of Europe with six dates in North America, starting this week at New York’s Gramercy Theatre on Thursday, May 22, Boston’s Somerville Theatre on Friday, May 23, and the 9:30 Club in Washington, DC on Sunday, May 25. Tickets and exclusive VIP Packages are currently available at https://bearmccreary.com/events/.

The Themes & Variations shows feature a mesmerizing mix of McCreary’s popular compositions ranging from several of his epic film and TV scores to metal/rock selections from his landmark album/graphic novel/experience The Singularity. McCreary and the band will continue the North American leg of the tour next week with stops at Montreal’s Théâtre Beanfield on May 27, Toronto’s Danforth Music Hall on May 28, and Chicago’s Vic Theatre on May 31.

For McCreary, best known for his beloved compositions for The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, Outlander, Battlestar Galactica, and The Walking Dead, Themes & Variations represents his maiden voyage on the concert touring circuit. Thus far the band has been hailed by adoring fans for their unforgettable performances in the UK, Poland, the Czech Republic, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, and will follow the North American leg with a multi-city tour through Australia. While admittedly growing personally and professionally during this on-the-road learning experience, McCreary has also been overwhelmed by the wildly positive reaction from audiences.

“My most vivid memory onstage is picking up the hurdy-gurdy mid-set and moving to the front of the stage, when, night after night, the crowds have gone crazy,” McCreary recalls. “I am not even certain they knew what the hell the instrument was; they just knew it was time for something crazy to go down.

So far, I feel like fans of my music are having a great time no matter what particular side of my musical personality we’ve brought to the show. I hear people singing along with rock songs from The Singularity. Battlestar Galactica fans have started chanting “So Say We All!” at the top of their lungs. People have come dressed as pirates to erupt into vocals during my music from Black Sails. It seems there’s something for everybody!”

Given the immense popularity of so many of his film, TV, and video game scores, McCreary has been particularly pleased with each night’s audience feedback for one of his most recent compositions.

“The biggest surprise of the tour so far has been the reaction to ‘The End of Tomorrow,’ the climactic 10-minute song from The Singularity,” McCreary says. “From its somber cinematic opening to its epic sing-along finale, I feel engagement from the audience. As an artist, it’s truly a wonderful feeling to experience.”

While music is at the forefront of his focus, McCreary admits there are some more subtle, everyday lessons he’s come to understand as essential for life on the road.

“I have been asking all my friends who have spent their lives touring with bands for tips, and everyone has offered real, tangible advice,” McCreary says. “However, it was my friend Duff McKagan, bassist for Guns N’ Roses, who perhaps offered the most useful advice. He walked me through all his tips for dealing with dirty laundry while out on the road and, sure enough, his advice proved essential. I remember one surreal moment texting Duff a picture of my laundry and getting a wildly enthusiastic response. So, that was a surprising discovery. These are the parts of rock star life you don’t think about!”