Explore a richer and deeper medieval world in Roads to Power, the highly anticipated expansion of Crusader Kings III, Paradox Interactive’s best-selling strategy role-playing game about the Middle Ages. Travel a world of danger and opportunity as your character seeks wealth and adventure, or navigate the perilous waters of imperial politics – a setting where brute force often bows to diplomacy and intrigue.
Roads to Power is the newest Major Expansion of Crusader Kings III, focusing on two significant changes to the core game experience. First, Landless Adventurer characters start with a camp and a few followers but can gain great power and influence by offering their skills to neighboring rules. Second, the Administrative Government playstyle comes to the Byzantine Empire, in a more historically appropriate representation of the political system of one of the great Mediterranean powers. An associated comic book about the rise of Basil I, “Many Roads to Power”, was published in August, free for everyone to read and enjoy.
Features of Crusader Kings III: Roads to Power include:
Administrative Government: Experience medieval rule outside of the feudal system with a new style of empire management. A web of Governors jockeys for position in the empire with intrigue and power, sometimes rewarding merit and sometimes rewarding perfidy. Only a truly skilled Emperor can keep these squabbling forces in line.
The Family Estate: Run and manage a powerful Family Estate, the seat of your House’s power, even when you hold no other land. Construct new buildings and improvements to further your power and influence within an administrative empire.
Influence System: Build up a character’s influence within an administrative empire to climb the rungs of bureaucracy. Raise your status in the realm and gather more power for yourself. Start as a landless noble on an estate, and compete for valuable provinces to govern before making your bid for the Purple.
A Life of Adventure: Freely roam the map, untied to any realm or holding, going wherever the winds of fortune blow you. Fulfill contracts as a landless adventurer, even through the generations, building up a reputation of your own. Earn gold, prestige and fame travelling the globe until you decide to settle down and claim land you have earned through merit.
Choose Successor or Caesar: Spend the influence you have gathered to determine the course of the Empire and get the successor you want, whether a royal family member, a powerful noble, a martial hero, or any other candidate you can rally the people behind. The Emperor can even opt to co-rule if the burden of the throne is too much for one person.
New Byzantine Flavor Content: New events, monuments and activities built around the Byzantine theme, including chariot racing.
Cosmetic Additions: A Byzantine-themed UI skin and new court fashions for your characters, new 2D event art, new on-map monuments of the Byzantine world, new on-map holding designs, and a Byzantine throne room for Royal Court sessions, among other aesthetic improvements. New music inspired by Orthodox holy chants is also included.
Limited Run Games today revealed in close collaboration with Knights Peak and Offworld a Collector’s Edition for Starship Troopers: Extermination. This limited edition will be available only for PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X, and PC.
Based on the renowned Sci-Fi franchise, Offworld’s Starship Troopers: Extermination features the familiar conflict between the Federation’s military forces and the Arachnids. The game allows up to 16 friends to join forces online and fight back against the never-ending Bug threat. Building bases and storming others, players are tasked with taking control of planets swarming with vile Bugs by dominating the battlefield through teamwork.
The design team at Limited Run is excited to join their effort with their very own “Big Bug Edition,” and pre-orders are now open with an RRP of 149.99$. This collection includes the Federation’s esteemed flag, an embroidered patch to show your loyalty, double-sided posters, art cards, a big “Warrior Bug” figure, and more!
The Starship Troopers: Extermination Collector’s Edition will include:
Physical Copy of Starship Troopers: Extermination: PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X, or Steam (as a PC Code)
Exclusive Collector’s Box design featuring a brand new key-artwork by PETROL, renowned for their stunning and immersive designs.
The hero item: “Warrior Bug” Figurine (H: 200mm x W: 319mm x L: 276mm)
Federation Flag, Certificate of Authenticity, Stickers, Embroidered Patch, Metal Pin, Tattoo Transfer, 2 Double-Sided Posters, 4 Art Cards
Starship Troopers: Extermination is a 16-player co-op FPS that puts you on the far-off frontlines of an all-out battle against the Bugs! Squad up, grab your rifle, and do your part as an elite Deep Space Vanguard Trooper to take back planets from the Arachnid threat!
Thirty years after the storm, the city of New London stands as a testament to humanity’s resilience. But the ice hasn’t thawed, and the struggle for survival has only intensified. In 11 Bit Studios’ “Frostpunk 2,” players once again take on the mantle of leadership, facing the impossible task of guiding their people through a perpetual winter.
The sequel expands upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, offering a larger, more intricate world to manage. The city-building mechanics are deeper, with the introduction of districts and a more nuanced approach to resource management. The political landscape is rife with tension, as various factions vie for control, forcing players to navigate a web of alliances and betrayals. The narrative is rich with moral dilemmas, challenging players to weigh the needs of the many against the sacrifices of the few.
In comparison to the original “Frostpunk,” the sequel feels more ambitious in scope. The world is more expansive, the systems are more complex, and the narrative is more nuanced. The addition of districts adds a layer of strategic depth to the city-building, while the political intrigue creates a sense of tension and uncertainty. The moral choices are more impactful, forcing players to confront the consequences of their decisions in a more visceral way.
However, while “Frostpunk 2” excels in many areas, it also suffers from a sense of familiarity. The core gameplay loop remains largely unchanged, with players still tasked with balancing resource production, heat management, and societal needs. The moral choices, while impactful, often feel like variations on themes explored in the first game. The sense of dread and desperation is palpable, but it’s a feeling that players of the original will already be intimately familiar with.
When compared to other city-building survival games like “Surviving Mars” or “Banished,” “Frostpunk 2” stands out for its bleak atmosphere and morally challenging scenarios. The focus on human drama and the constant struggle against the elements create a unique sense of tension and urgency. The game forces players to make difficult choices that have a tangible impact on the lives of their citizens, creating a sense of emotional investment that few other games in the genre can match.
In conclusion, “Frostpunk 2” is a worthy successor to the original, offering a deeper, more complex experience. It expands upon the strengths of its predecessor while introducing new mechanics and narrative elements. However, it also suffers from a sense of familiarity, with the core gameplay loop and moral dilemmas feeling somewhat repetitive. It’s a bleak, beautiful, and brutally challenging game that will push players to their limits.
Overall Score: 4 out of 5
Pros:
Deeper city-building mechanics with the addition of districts
More complex political landscape with various factions
Rich narrative filled with impactful moral choices
Bleak atmosphere and sense of urgency create a unique experience
Cons:
Core gameplay loop remains largely unchanged from the original
Moral dilemmas can feel repetitive
Sense of familiarity can dampen the impact for returning players
Endzone 2: A World Apart is not just another colony builder; it’s a stark reminder of humanity’s fragility, set against a beautifully desolate backdrop. The game throws you into a world ravaged by environmental disaster, where every decision carries weight and survival is a constant struggle. If you’re expecting a light-hearted city-building experience, look elsewhere. But if you’re ready for a gritty and rewarding challenge, Endzone 2 might just be your next obsession.
The game strikes a delicate balance between harsh realism and engaging gameplay. The environmental threats are relentless; sandstorms can bury your crops, droughts can cripple your water supply, and radiation storms can decimate your population. These aren’t just random events, they’re integral parts of the game world, forcing you to constantly adapt and plan ahead. Compared to other colony builders that might offer a more forgiving experience, Endzone 2 demands your full attention and strategic thinking.
Exploration and expansion are key components of the gameplay loop. The world map is vast and varied, with different biomes offering unique resources and challenges. Sending out expeditions to scout new territories and gather vital supplies is both exciting and nerve-wracking, as your settlers face dangers like bandits and mutated creatures. It’s reminiscent of the exploration mechanics in games like Frostpunk, where venturing into the unknown is both necessary and perilous.
Managing multiple settlements adds another layer of complexity. Each zone has its own microclimate and resource distribution, requiring you to specialize and establish trade routes between them. This interconnectedness creates a sense of a living, breathing world, where your settlements are interdependent and vulnerable to disruptions in the supply chain. It’s a refreshing change from colony builders that focus solely on a single settlement, offering a more dynamic and strategic experience.
Building and upgrading your settlements is satisfying, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Resources are scarce, and you’ll often find yourself prioritizing which buildings to construct and which technologies to research. The game doesn’t hold your hand; you need to carefully consider the needs of your population and the limitations of your environment. This level of depth and resource management is what sets Endzone 2 apart from more casual colony builders.
Endzone 2’s graphics are stunning, capturing the bleak beauty of a post-apocalyptic world. The environments are detailed and atmospheric, and the weather effects are particularly impressive. The sound design is equally immersive, with ambient sounds and a haunting soundtrack that perfectly complement the game’s tone.
The game isn’t without its flaws. The early game can be brutally difficult, and the learning curve is steep. Some of the mechanics could be explained more clearly, and the interface can feel a bit clunky at times. But for those willing to invest the time and effort, Endzone 2 offers a deeply rewarding and thought-provoking experience.
Overall, Endzone 2: A World Apart is a standout entry in the colony builder genre. It’s a challenging but ultimately fulfilling game that forces you to confront the harsh realities of survival in a post-apocalyptic world. While it may not be for everyone, those seeking a deep and immersive experience will find plenty to love here.
Overall Score: 3 out of 5
**Pros:**
* Deep and engaging gameplay
* Beautiful graphics and sound
* Challenging but rewarding
* Unique setting and mechanics
**Cons:**
* Steep learning curve
* Early game can be frustrating
* Interface could be improved
Razer’s latest offering, the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, proves that good things can indeed come in small packages. This compact wireless keyboard targets gamers and keyboard enthusiasts who crave a premium typing experience without sacrificing precious desk space. But does it live up to the hype, and more importantly, is it worth the considerable investment? Let’s dive into the details.
Right out of the box, the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% exudes quality. The aluminum frame feels robust, and the PBT keycaps promise durability while resisting the unsightly shine that often plagues lesser keyboards. Razer’s signature attention to detail shines through in the subtle touches, like the dedicated media controls and a vibrant OLED screen that adds a touch of futuristic flair to your setup. It’s a keyboard that looks as good as it performs.
The pre-installed Razer Orange Tactile Gen-3 switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump and a relatively quiet actuation. Razer has even thoughtfully included sound dampening foam to further minimize noise, making it ideal for shared spaces or late-night gaming sessions. But the true magic lies in the hot-swappable sockets. You can effortlessly swap out the pre-installed switches for any compatible 3-pin or 5-pin mechanical switches, allowing you to tailor the typing experience to your exact preferences. They even provide some extra key switches in the box for good measure.
Razer’s HyperSpeed Wireless technology proves that wireless gaming keyboards can truly compete with their wired counterparts. The connection is rock-solid, with no noticeable lag or dropouts, even during intense gaming sessions. For those who juggle multiple devices, Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity is also available. And let’s not forget the impressive battery life, boasting up to 2100 hours of battery life with power saving mode on (which disables RGB and the OLED screen). I was a wireless gaming keyboard skeptic until the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%. Even better is that the keyboard is capable of up to 4KHz polling in wireless mode! That is an incredible feature which will make your key press timing a lot more accurate.
Layers of Gaming Keyboard Goodness
Razer Chroma RGB is back and more vibrant than ever. With 16.8 million colors and a plethora of customizable effects at your disposal, you can transform your keyboard into a mesmerizing light show. The Razer Synapse software provides granular control over every aspect of the keyboard, from lighting to macros. While the software can be a bit overwhelming for newcomers, the level of customization it offers is truly impressive.
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% isn’t alone in the premium compact keyboard market. The Keychron Q1 Pro offers a similar hot-swappable experience with extensive customization options. The Glorious GMMK Pro boasts a unique gasket-mounted design for a distinct typing feel, and the Drop CTRL caters to DIY enthusiasts with its minimalist approach. Compared to its rivals, the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% stands head and shoulders above with its rock solid build quality, seamless wireless performance, stunning RGB lighting, and convenient media controls. However, it’s important to note that this level of excellence comes at a higher price.
OLED Info Screen
The small OLED screen at the top right of the keyboard is a multifunctional gem of a feature. Not only is it integrated with the command dial but it can function in several different ways. It can be set to control volume, provide a brief info summary of the keyboard (battery life, etc.), media control, lighting brightness, app switches, and a lot more. Learn this command dial and the screen modes for maximum enjoyment of the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%. Once you do, you will be sad that most other keyboards lack it.
Final Verdict
The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is undeniably a fantastic keyboard. It’s compact, customizable, wireless, and aesthetically pleasing. Of course, a keyboard is nothing without a pleasant typing experience and I am pleased to report this one is: Flawless. If you’re a discerning user who demands the best and is willing to pay for a higher-end product, the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% won’t disappoint.
Overall Score: 5 out of 5
Pros:
Compact 75% layout saves desk space without sacrificing functionality
Hot-swappable switches for unparalleled customization
Flawless wireless performance with Razer HyperSpeed Wireless
Dazzling Razer Chroma RGB lighting with 16.8 million colors
Dedicated media controls and convenient OLED screen
Exceptional build quality and premium materials
Cons:
Razer Synapse software can be overwhelming for beginners
At Razer, innovation is in our DNA. We consistently push boundaries to create features that not only enhance the gaming experience but also often set new industry standards. Today, I’m excited to share an update on one of our latest innovations—Razer ™ Snap Tap—initially introduced on the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro line, is now extending across more devices, including the now-available Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%.
Innovation at the Core of Razer
Razer has always been at the forefront of gaming technology, introducing features ahead of their time. These innovations typically stir robust debates but ultimately pave the way for new standards within the gaming industry. Razer Snap Tap is no exception.
Following its successful introduction, we’ve observed others in the industry follow and implement similar technology, validating our leadership in gaming innovation, and cementing the Razer Advantage.
Bringing Razer Snap Tap to More Devices
Initially launched with our Huntsman V3 Pro line, Razer Snap Tap revolutionized keyboard input methods by allowing gamers to execute near-instant directional changes without even having to lift their finger off the previous key press—giving gamers a far more responsive execution of their intended movement.
Given its overwhelming success and positive feedback from the community, we are thrilled to announce that Razer™ Snap Tap will now be integrated across a broader range of Razer keyboards including the new BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, and, for the first time ever in a laptop, the Razer Blade gaming laptops.
This milestone introduces a new level of precision and performance to the Razer Blade line, ensuring that gamers enjoy competitive advantages even when they’re on the move. With Razer Blade’s leading performance and display technology, Snap Tap’s integration means our laptops now match the responsiveness traditionally expected from high-end gaming keyboards.
Razer Snap Tap is OFF by default and can be toggled ON/OFF via Razer Synapse 4.
Supported Devices:
Razer Snap Tap is available now, for all keyboards supported by Razer Synapse 4, as far back as Razer keyboards launched in 2014 (Huntsman V2 Analog, Huntsman Mini Analog, and Tartarus Pro users – stay tuned), and Razer Blade laptops compatible with Razer Synapse 4. View the full list of supported devices at Razer.com.
Gaming with the Razer Advantage:
The integration of Snap Tap across more devices means that more gamers can now leverage this feature, which is particularly game-changing for FPS games like VALORANT, Apex Legends, and more. That said, Snap Tap achieves its fullest potential when gamers use it in conjunction with Rapid Trigger Mode and personalized actuation points on the Huntsman V3 Pro line of keyboards, providing an unmatched competitive edge. Unlike the Huntsman V3 Pro line, which has Snap Tap built into the firmware, all other products will require Razer Synapse 4 to be active to leverage Snap Tap.
While Razer Snap Tap is off by default, activating it is straightforward:
Download the latest version of Razer Synapse 4 here. For those who are already on Razer Synapse 4, restart the app and ensure it is updated to the latest version
Toggle Razer Snap Tap in the Customize tab; or the Actuation tab for Huntsman V3 Pro line
Looking Ahead:
As we continue to innovate, Razer remains committed to providing gamers with the tools they need to succeed. The expansion of Razer Snap Tap is just one example of how we listen to our community and respond with technology that sets new benchmarks in the gaming world.
Stay tuned for more updates and get ready to enhance your gaming experience with Razer Snap Tap. For further details on how this feature transforms gameplay, visit Razer.com.
Arrow Video is excited to announce the October 2024 lineup of their subscription-based ARROW platform, available to subscribers in the US, Canada, the UK and Ireland. Enjoy a selection of new titles, from carefully cultivated curations to shorts by new talent. For serious enthusiasts, ARROW offers deep dives into the tastes of filmmakers that changed the way we see the genre.
The October 2024 lineup leads with ARROW’s annual curation Shocktober31, leading up to every subscriber’s favorite day of the year. ARROW has a candy bag full of tricks, treats, and more for every flavor of film fan. Recent releases and classic scares combine with innovative new shorts and curated content for 31 days of terror.
October 1’s Seasonal offerings kicks off with the infamous Shocktober31 (UK/IRE/US/CA). ARROW conjures Shocktober31 from its grave for another October highlighting some of our favorite horror titles streaming on ARROW each day. 31 days, 31 movies, guaranteed to make your Halloween go with a scream. Is it even Halloween without an ARROW Shocktober31?
Let’s get this (pumpkin) party started with a collection of terrifying Cult classics, old and new, to take care of your October viewing for the full 31 days of Hallow— we mean, ARROWeen!
Titles Include: Noroi: The Curse, Offspring, Pandemonium.
On October 4, ARROW goes trick or treating with filmmaking legend and box office smash Michael Dougherty. Reach into the candy bag and explore the cranium that gave audiences Krampus, Trick ‘r Treat, and Godzilla: King of the Monsters with Michael Dougherty Selects (UK/IRE/US/CA). As audiences await the next nightmare to come forth from his imagination, Dougherty took some to look through the ARROW dungeons and shine a light on the films that reminded him of his childhood.
“Back when I was a kid it wasn’t easy to get your fix of underground cult movies. If you were lucky, you might’ve had one local theater or a drive-in with the balls to screen these gems, or maybe you had a friend whose parents let them rent whatever they wanted from the video store. Now, in an era where corporate streaming services dominate the entertainment landscape, it seems there are even less options for those of us who love movies that are a little rougher around the edges; movies that might not be as slick and polished as their big multiplex counterparts, but are nonetheless just as important and valuable — if not more so. Watching these films is like being placed in the hands of madmen who could give a fuck what the suits want and would rather go out guns blazing in order to provide an experience that might be horrifying, revolting, and maybe even morally questionable, but they’re raw, unfiltered, and generally awesome.”
Titles Include: One Missed Call, Basket Case, Mako: Jaws of Death.
The blood flow continues October 4 with three treats exclusively for North American subscribers.
Bad Biology (US/CAN): For his first film in 17 years, splatter master Frank Henenlotter returned with the most graphic, transgressive and jaw-droppingly depraved black comedy shocker of his career: Jennifer is a homicidal nymphomaniac who spontaneously births mutant babies. Batz has a monstrous penis with a mind of its own. Will these two made-for-each-other freaks deliver the ultimate orgasmic horror?
Curtains (US/CAN): John Vernon (CHAINED HEAT, National Lampoon’s ANIMAL HOUSE) and Samantha Eggar (THE BROOD, THE EXTERMINATOR) star in this horror classic from the golden age of the slasher genre. A group of women gather for a weekend casting call at the secluded mansion of director Jonathan Stryker (Vernon). Unfortunately, a crazed killer in a disgusting “hag” mask is viciously murdering everyone one by one.
Zombie Holocaust (US/CAN): It sparked riots on 42nd Street, spawned a generation of gorehounds on VHS and forever set an insane standard for Italian zombie/cannibal carnage worldwide: Ian McCulloch (ZOMBIE), Alexandra Delli Colli (THE NEW YORK RIPPER), Sherry Buchanan (TENTACLES) and Donald O’Brien (EMANUELLE AND THE LAST CANNIBALS) star in this unabashed EuroTrash orgy of gut-munching, eyeball-gouging and face-chopping.
On October 11, knock on two doors for a taste of ARROW.
Trick? (UK/IRE/US/CA): Oops! You knocked on a nasty door. No sweets and candy for you, but instead a choice of plenty of Tricks. Be brave and pick a scary short film with a sting in the tail. After all, it’s Halloween. Everyone’s entitled to one good scare.
Titles Include: The Monkey’s Paw, The Wyrm of Bwlch Pen Barras, Death Walks on Nitrate.
Treat? (UK/IRE/US/CA): Phew! You knocked on a nice door. Hold out your bucket, we have some Treats for you – a big handful of short films full of fun, laughs and — you got us — maybe the odd gallon of blood too.
Titles Include: Bark, Keith, Bad Acid.
Also on October 11, go back to the 70s with a pair of films more disturbing than any acid trip.
Messiah of Evil (US/CAN): A woman arrives in a sleepy seaside town after receiving unsettling letters from her father, only to discover the town is under the influence of a strange cult that weeps tears of blood and hunger for human flesh.
The Psychic (US/CAN): It’s been called “amazing” (Oh, The Horror!), “classic” (The Geek Show) and “a magnificent film” (Diabolique Magazine). It remains writer/director Lucio Fulci’s ultimate giallo masterpiece: Jennifer O’Neill (SCANNERS) stars as a woman tormented by violent visions of past slayings. Or are they premonitions of murders still to come?
October 14 is ARROW’s ode to the 80s with a launch of classic nightmares for North American subscribers.
Creepshow 2 (US/CAN): Titans of terror George A. Romero and Stephen King deliver yet another selection of blood-curdling tales in Creepshow 2, the follow-up to the 1982 horror classic. In “Old Chief Wood’nhead”, a group of young hoodlums face retribution from an unlikely source after looting a local hardware store. Meanwhile, “The Raft” sees a group of horny teens wishing they’d read the warning signs first before taking a dip in a remote lake. Finally, an uptight businesswoman finds herself with some unwanted company following a hit-and-run incident in “The Hitch-hiker”. Retaining the same EC comic book flavor that made the original such a hit, Creepshow 2, this time directed by long-time Romero collaborator Michael Gornick, is a standout horror anthology from the minds of two of the genre’s master craftsmen.
House (US/CAN): In the original House, William Katt (Carrie) stars as Roger Cobb, a horror novelist struggling to pen his next bestseller. When he inherits his great aunt’s creaky old mansion, Roger decides that he might just have found the ideal place in which to get some writing done. Unfortunately, the house’s vindictive supernatural residents have other ideas…
House II: The Second Story (US/CAN): House II: The Second Story sees young Jesse (Arye Gross) moving into an old family mansion where his parents were mysteriously murdered years before. Plans for turning the place into a party pad are soon thwarted by the appearance of Jesse’s mummified Great Grandpa, his mystical crystal skull and the zombified cowboy who’ll stop at nothing to lay his hands on it!
Vamp (US/CAN): Two fraternity pledges head to a seedy part of town to find some entertainment for their college friends but are faced with bloodthirsty vampires!
Keith (Chris Makepeace, Meatballs) and AJ (Robert Rusler, A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy’s Revenge) want to make the right impression at college and so they devise a plan to get them into the best frathouse on campus. They head to the After Dark Club where they want to find a stripper for a party their friends won’t forget, instead they find themselves among vampires led by Kinky Katrina (Grace Jones, A View to a Kill)!
Delivering laughs and scares in equal measure, with the added bonus of vampy sex appeal, Vamp is a comedy horror romp with real bite!
The Stuff (US/CAN): Are you eating it…or is it eating you? The Stuff is the new dessert taking supermarket shelves by storm. It’s delicious, low in calories and – better still – doesn’t stain the family carpet… What’s not to like?! Well, for a start it has a life of its own, and we’re not talking friendly live bacteria… Young Jason seems to be the only one who doesn’t love The Stuff – in fact he won’t go anywhere near it, after having seen the pudding crawling around the fridge one night. What’s more, everyone who eats The Stuff has started acting really weird… Grab a spoon and dig on into The Stuff – the taste that delivers… much more than you bargained for!
On October 18, pick apart the mind of a festival programmer with Celluloid Screams Selects (UK/IRE/US/CA).
Celluloid Screams, North England’s premier annual horror film festival, celebrates the best in classic and contemporary cinema. This year’s event will run from the 24th to the 27th of October, and the Celluloid Screams team have scoured the ARROW vaults to handpick their fave Cult films in Celluloid Screams Selects.
Titles Include: The Endless, Hellraiser 2 and Blood and Black Lace.
On October 25, mini monsters are on the menu with a selection of creature shorts!
Werewolf (UK/IRE/US/CAN): A group of friends decides to play a casual game of Werewolf. Will they survive the night? Or will their secrets spill through the cracks of distrust and draw blood?
We Forgot About The Zombies (UK/IRE/US/CAN): The story of two friends who think they found the cure for zombie bites.
Blood Shed (UK/IRE/US/CAN): When Jack buys suspiciously cheap second-hand parts to build his dream shed, he and long-suffering wife Helen find they’ve got more than they bargained for: a killer shed with an appetite for blood.
Strange Creatures (UK/IRE/US/CAN): Desperate to see her brother again, a young woman visits the site of his death.
On October 28, prepare for the big day with J-Horror Rising (UK/IRE/US/CA)
Vengeful ghosts returning from beyond the grave, young women with supernatural abilities, investigative narratives, a terror of technology, and an ominous aura of urban alienation and isolation mark the wave of horror and mystery films that emerged in Japan at the turn of the millennium, collectively labeled as “J-Horror”.
Remastered from the best available elements and alongside a host of new and archival extras, J-Horror Rising presents seven of the genre’s most distinctive titles.
In the ghostly pastoral horror of Shikoku, a young woman returns after many years to her rural birthplace, only to find her best friend from childhood has died by drowning when just sixteen. The dead girl’s mother, the local Shintoist priestess, has embarked on the region’s famous pilgrimage – but why is she walking backwards?
The aftermath of the devastating Kobe Earthquake of 1995 creates fissures in the already fractured mind of a high-school girl in Isola: Multiple Personality Girl, allowing an unwelcome intruder to set up home in her head and leaving a volunteer worker with psychic powers to determine which of her personas is the fake one.
Shikoku also provides the mystical backdrop to Inugami, as a teacher from Tokyo finds himself drawn to a local papermaker, only to find himself the subject of some hostility from her extended family, who have long ties to the region and are rumored to be the descendants of the guardians of ancient evil canine spirits.
Megumi Okina (Ju-On: The Grudge) plays the art designer for a horror-themed video game in the innovative St. John’s Wort, who is forced to confront her childhood traumas when her colleagues ask her to gather visual materials from the creepy gothic mansion she has inherited from her estranged artist father.
Carved: The Slit-Mouthed Woman features the titular predatory murderess drawn from urban legend, where it turns out home isn’t the safest place for her potential child victims in this disturbing supernatural horror.
A new craze for wearing ceramic masks sweeps the students of a high school, unleashing a wave of anonymous juvenile delinquency amongst the literal fashion-victims of Persona, which boasts early appearances from Battle Royale stars Tatsuya Fujiwara and Chiaki Kuriyama.
Last but not least, the chilling Noroi: The Curse adopts a pseudo-documentary format as an investigative reporter into paranormal phenomena is forced to confront horrors beyond his wildest imagination after learning about an ancient folkloric demon.
Titles Include: Carved: The Slit-Mouthed Woman, Shikoku, Isola: Multiple Personality Girl, Inugami, Noroi: The Curse, St. John’s Wort.
The dead are back for more! The new “Extinction” update is now available in World War Z: Aftermath, the ultimate co-op zombie shooter from Saber Interactive. Free on PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, this newest update features fresh mutators for Challenge Mode, the addition of the Arizona XL* map to Challenge Horde Mode, a new heavy weapon skin customization option, the premium Golden Bloom Weapon Skin Pack DLC, and the new, exceptionally tough Extinction Challenge Mode!
Think you’ve got what it takes? The new Extinction Challenge Mode raises the bar even higher, with even more aggressive zombies that are harder to take down and can infect you on contact. Allies will be tougher to distinguish from the pack and death occurs after just one incapacitation, with respawns only possible at checkpoints.
Each week in Extinction Challenge Mode, maps from one campaign episode will be featured on rotation. Players who complete all maps from any episode for the first time in this mode will receive bonus rewards like a heavy weapon skin, 350 blue coins and 1,000 gold coins!
Today’s update also adds 13 new mutators for Challenge Horde Mode:
Grenadier – The Bomber throws explosives until neutralized
Myopia – After aiming, your vision becomes blurred
Plague Creatures – During the wave, a random special zombie and poison cloud appears
Mass Contamination – The Booster infects a larger group of zombies nearby
Angry Turrets – At the start of the wave, all deployed turrets become neutral, posing a deadly threat to both zombies and human players
New Advantages for All 8 Classes – Raise the health and damage of each class by 50%
Players can also grab new premium cosmetic styles for their arsenal today. Available for $4.99, the Golden Bloom Weapon Skin Pack DLC brings flashy floral patterns to the Geist 17MP pistol, Paladin LMG rifle, Keris V10 SMG, BSS-2 shotgun and MAG-5 machine gun.
Private Division, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), and Wētā Workshop, the creative studio known for their work on The Lord of the Rings film trilogy, revealed yesterday during a showcase that Tales of the Shire: A The Lord of The Rings Game will launch on March 25, 2025 on PC via Steam, Nintendo Switch™, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Netflix Games.
Watch the showcase to find out more about all the exciting features and inspirations behind the game on YouTube:
Embark on a cosy adventure in Tales of the Shire where you experience the quiet life of a Hobbit in J.R.R Tolkien’s Middle-earth. Begin by creating your unique Hobbit avatar, choosing from a variety of very Hobbit-specific features to express yourself – including foot-hair styles and personality ‘moods’ that bring your character to life. Perhaps your Hobbit is a friendly soul with fiery red hair, a cute button nose, and bright green eyes? Or maybe your Hobbit is more of a Sackville curmudgeon, with a broad nose and balding hair! The choice is yours. Then set out to make your home in sleepy Bywater and enjoy the simple pleasures of life in the Shire.
“Wētā Workshop has been trusted with J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth universe for more than 25 years, and over that time we have built up a deep understanding of the lore and a real love of Middle-earth that flows through our creative work across screen, collectibles and now, our cosy sims games,” said Richard Taylor, Co-founder and CEO at Wētā Workshop. “Tales of the Shire allows us to inspire our talents in an entirely new medium and, ultimately, create this game for people just like us – fans of The Lord of the Rings. This is a beautiful way that players who are looking for a quieter, more peaceful time can discover this in a less explored corner of this universe.”
This small, growing community is home to a delightful cast of residents, who will request your aid in placing Bywater on the Shire’s map as an official village. To accomplish this goal, you will grow and nurture relationships with other characters. For most Hobbits, the best way to build bonds with others is through the comforts of a warm meal.
Much like in real life, cooking requires proper preparation, careful attention, and a “dash of this or that” for the perfect feast. Chop up home grown vegetables, sauté foraged mushrooms, perhaps add a tart pickle or a dollop of sweet jam to balance the dish. Every meal has various steps to complete to earn multiple stars, all in an effort to present a dish that satisfies and delights your guests.
As a newly established Hobbit, you’ll have access to the essentials – a bedroom, a cosy lounge, and of course – your pantry and kitchen to prepare meals for expected and unexpected guests. From these humble beginnings, you’ll soon be able to expand your space and supplies – fishing, foraging, gardening, and trading with your neighbours. This will quickly enable you to establish a well-stocked pantry and upgraded tools for harvesting and cooking. The shops of Bywater are bustling with many vendors who are willing to sell you all kinds of ingredients, as well as decorative items for your Hobbit home. Meet humorous and interesting characters like Old Noakes; while he may seem a bit cantankerous at first, he is a master angler. Not only can he give you tips on improving your own fishing skills, and help unlock secret fishing spots, he trades his daily catches. Nora and Fosco Burrows’ shop is stocked to the brim with adornments for your home as well as other charming items to fill out your wardrobe. There are many other Hobbits awaiting you in Bywater, so be sure to meet and invite them over for a second breakfast!
If you are not feeling up to the bustle of the market, wander through the fields and the forests to scavenge for seasonal items. Collect some juicy berries for a fresh summer tart or mushrooms to add to a harvest pie. Butterflies often flutter by and when closely followed can guide you to new discoveries. Beyond the rounded opening of your Hobbit home, a short venture reveals a bounty – your very own garden. This fully customisable area allows you to place multiple plots. Want to place a daybed in your garden? Perhaps you’d like to create a summer table setting? The space is yours to create! Your garden offers a personal touch to your Hobbit life, and here you can grow a variety of fruits, vegetables, spices, and other harvestable ingredients. Just be sure to take proper care by watering and checking on them daily.
In addition to the hills’ ample harvest and your ability to cultivate plants in your garden, you can catch a variety of fish in the various streams and bubbling brooks around Bywater. Relax by taking a moment to cast your lure in a stream. Watch the bobber closely and hook a big catch for your next meal!
“The Lord of the Rings is an extraordinary world, beloved by hundreds of millions, and people have been clamoring for a game to bring the community, fellowship, and warmth of the Shire to life,” said Eric Correll, Vice President, Head of Marketing at Private Division. “In Tales of the Shire, Wētā Workshop has created the countryside village of Bywater like no one else could do, and we can’t wait for gamers to unwind, relax, and explore.”
Tales of the Shire: A The Lord of the Rings Game is possible due to Middle-earth Enterprises having licensed the literary works of The Lord of the Rings series and providing Wētā Workshop Game Studio with the creative license. The game is coming March 25, 2025 for the Nintendo Switch™, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Netflix Games, and PC via Steam. Tales of the Shire is not yet rated by the ESRB. For more information, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and visit www.talesoftheshire.com.
Private Division is a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO).
Today, publisher Raw Fury and developer Fury Studios announced that Kingdom Two Crowns: Call of Olympus, the next major DLC for the atmospheric side-scrolling strategy game, will launch on October 8 on PC via Steam, GOG, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS and Android.
In addition to the DLC’s launch on October 8, players can look forward to a free 2.0 update that includes a collection of quality-of-life improvements, such as options to turn off the tutorial ghost, a new save system supporting up to 10 save slots and more. Along with the update, players can expand their royal experience in the world of Kingdom with two new cosmetic DLC packs: The Archon’s Royal Wardrobe DLC and Regent’s Royal Wardrobe DLC. The supporter DLC packs provide players with more ways to customize new looks for their Monarchs and when purchased (for $2,99 each), will provide an additional way to support the ongoing development of the Kingdom series.
Kingdom Two Crowns: Call of Olympus is set in a fantastical interpretation of Ancient Greece and its mythos. An all-new campaign experience will evolve the classic Kingdom formula, including the ability to unlock powerful artifacts through quests that can be used to defend against the waves of Greed coming at night.
Players must defend their Kingdom and conquer the Greed to find out what awaits them on top of Mount Olympus. As the Monarch, gain access to the divine mountaintop by earning the favor of several gods. Players will embark on an island-hopping journey packed with unique challenges and puzzles to appease the gods and rise to victory on the mountain.
Key Features
Journey on a quest to free Mount Olympus
An Epic New World – Call of Olympus features a reworked map with an epic conclusion at Mount Olympus, and you choose how to get there!
Temple and Quest Islands – These new islands present unique challenges, hidden treasures and powerful artifact rewards – prove your worth to Artemis, Athena, Hephaestus and Hermes to open the path to Mount Olympus.
Mythological mounts – Discover and unlock powerful new mounts, like the fierce three-headed Cerberus, the terrifying fire-breathing Chimera, the majestic winged Pegasus, or the trusty Donkey… and many more!
Fight Greed of Epic Scales
Face Your Fears – Muster steadfast defenses to protect your crown, the Greed threat is more challenging than ever before, with multi-phased boss battles against the sinister Serpent.
Raise Your Banner – Shift the momentum and lead from the front. Bring the fight to the Greed with new siege mechanics, where the Hoplites will join you in Phalanx formation.
Assemble Your Fleet – Fight on land and at sea, and build a fleet with devastating ship-mounted ballistas to join your battle. Once victorious, use your armada to ferry your army across the seas and combat the growing threat of Greed.
Discover Godly Powers and Abilities
Powerful Artifacts – Unlock four unique artifacts bestowed by the gods. Whether you choose a bow with a powerful directed attack or a hammer that boosts your troops’ prowess, these items grant you new offensive and defensive abilities against the Greed.
Guided by the Oracle – Never stray from the task at hand. At your request, the Oracle will provide you with wisdom and directions for the next step of your Odyssey!
Set the Greed Ablaze – Wield powerful fire technology granted by the new hermit. It’s as if Prometheus himself gifted it!
