Author - Jerry Paxton

Stern Pinball Unveils Star Wars: Fall of the Empire

3 months ago
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Tech News, Trailers / Videos

Today, Stern Pinball, Inc., the largest designer and manufacturer of pinball games in the world, revealed their newest collection of pinball games inspired by one of the biggest entertainment franchises in the world. Stern Pinball is excited to bring Star Wars™ to existing and new generations of pinball players, taking them on an epic adventure to save the galaxy once and for all with a fresh take on the original trilogy. Star Wars: Fall of the Empire pinball games are available in Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition (LE) models. Initial availability will be in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Mexico, and Chile. Availability in additional markets will be communicated at a later date.

In Stern Pinball’s Star Wars: Fall of the Empire pinball games; players will take part in the adventures that started it all and experience iconic Star Wars-inspired moments through a pinball experience like no other. Players will take down the AT-AT by attaching their snowspeeder’s tow cable and shooting the spiral ramp to send it crashing down, mirroring the breathtaking scene from Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. Destroy the Death Star II from Star Wars: Return of the Jedi by lowering shields on the battle station during Death Star Multiball to save the galaxy. Players can also escape from Cloud City when reactivating the Millennium Falcon’s hyperdrive by hitting the center jump ramp to escape to hyperspace. Throughout the pinball experience, players will enter Jabba the Hutt’s Sarlacc Pit, battle stormtroopers, defeat TIE fighters, and even mimic using the Force to save your ball on the journey to defeating the Empire. Feel the power of the dark side as you enjoy special Darth Vader-inspired modes.

Accompanying the over 1,000 high-quality film and audio assets integrated into the gameplay, the Star Wars: Fall of the Empire pinball games feature the iconic movie score in addition to hand-drawn, vibrant artwork. The games feature custom audio call-outs from actor Chris Bartlett as C-3PO.

“Star Wars is one of the most iconic franchises in entertainment history and bringing it to life with a fresh take in our new pinball machine is a dream come true for our team who grew up as fans,” said Seth Davis, President & CEO of Stern Pinball. “At Stern Pinball, we always want to deliver an immersive, high-energy experience for our players, and there’s no better way to do that than with Star Wars.”

The Star Wars: Fall of the Empire pinball games launch on Stern’s next-generation SPIKE 3 technology platform, which includes a larger 18.5” full HD display with true color depth, along with a more powerful processor, and a new immersive audio system. SPIKE 3 electronics also feature more efficient power handling, improved Wi-Fi support, and wireless headphone capabilities.

To honor the original release of Star Wars in 1977, the Limited Edition model will be limited to 770 games in the initial launch territories. This highly collectible model includes the Expression Lighting System™ and Speaker Expression Lighting System with Star Wars-themed game effects, a full-color mirrored backglass, full-color high-definition cabinet decals, exclusive custom Star Wars: Fall of the Empire pinball armor, a custom designer-autographed bottom arch, upgraded audio system, anti-reflection pinball playfield glass, shaker motor, a sequentially numbered plaque, a signed Certificate of Authenticity, and a digital Insider Connected LE owner’s badge on registration.

The Star Wars: Fall of the Empire pinball games are available through authorized Stern Pinball distributors and dealers around the world

Beyond Fest 2025 Announces Its Full Film Lineup

3 months ago
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, Movie News, News

Beyond Fest, Los Angeles’ biggest film festival and the highest-attended genre film festival in the U.S., is proud to announce its complete slate of 2025 programming comprising 8 World Premieres, 5 North American Premieres, 9 U.S. Premieres, 25 West Coast Premieres for a total of 90 feature films. Presented exclusively by NEON and programmed and produced in partnership with the American Cinematheque, Beyond Fest returns to the Egyptian Theatre, Aero Theatre, and Los Feliz 3 with all ticket sales going to the 501(c)(3) non-profit film institution.

Spanning fifteen days from September 23 to October 8, Beyond Fest 2025 promises a celebration of fearless filmmaking unlike anything Los Angeles has previously experienced, delivering an epic slate of pulse-pounding premieres, electrifying restorations, and in-person encounters with some of Cinema’s most iconic and cult legends.

Opening and Closing Night honors are bestowed upon two of contemporary Cinema’s most beloved auteurs: Park Chan-wook and Yorgos Lanthimos, with NO OTHER CHOICE (Opening) and BUGONIA (Closing) bookending this year’s exhaustive program.

Major premieres anchor the festival once again with a blend of star power and genre thrills, including U.S. Premieres of GOOD FORTUNE starring Seth Rogen, Aziz Ansari, Keke Palmer, Sandra Oh, and Keanu Reeves, produced by Aziz Ansari, p.g.a., Anthony Katagas, p.g.a., Alan Yang, p.g.a., and written and directed by Aziz Ansari, genre maestro Bryan Fuller’s DUST BUNNY starring Mads Mikkelsen and Sigourney Weaver. West Coast Premieres include the triumphant and terrifying return of Scott Derrickson and C. Robert Cargill with BLACK PHONE 2, the maestro, Luca Guadagnino, exposes uncomfortable truths with AFTER THE HUNT, Gore Verbinski’s brings the theatrical debut with a very special screening of his action comedy GOOD LUCK, HAVE FUN, DON’T DIE, and Mary Bronstein will be joined by stars Rose Byrne and Conan O’Brien as she debuts her revelatory IF I HAD LEGS I’D KICK YOU.

The best International Cinema brings a dazzling array of filmmakers in attendance with highlights including Jafar Panahi and his Palme d’Or winner, IT WAS JUST AN ACCIDENT, Kleber Mendonça Filho will dissect his exhilarating Cannes Prize Winner HE SECRET AGENT, and Oliver Laxe brings his Cannes stunner, SIRĀT, Complementing the slate are West Coast Premieres of Radu Jude’s DRACULA, Genki Kawamura’s EXIT 8, Harris Dickinson’s URCHIN, Stillz’s dazzlingly hallucinatory BARRIO TRISTE and Bi Gan with his jaw-dropping phantasmagoria, RESURRECTION.

Action Cinema is hyper-violently represented with the most electrifying films of the year. Stunt icon Kenji Tanigaki brings his instantly infamous epic-fight-fest, THE FURIOUS, to the Egyptian Theatre for its U.S. Premiere. SISU: ROAD TO REVENGE sees Jalmari Helander dispatch his bullets and bombs to the Red Army, and PSYCHO GORMAN’s Steven Kostanski reinvents the iconic DEATHSTALKER with an abundance of practical effects and gore galore.

“This year, we’re celebrating the full spectrum of genre filmmaking that intentionally ranges from the arthouse to the grindhouse,” said Evrim Ersoy, Beyond Fest Head of Programming. “Our goal has always been to connect film communities with the greatest variety of filmmakers, and the vast diversity of this year’s slate, featuring an unprecedented array of premieres and restorations, is a steadfast commitment to this mission and the power of genre Cinema.”

Beyond Fest continues its tradition of honoring Cinema icons with unforgettable in-person events. Complementing the previously announced Guillermo del Toro retrospective, Japanese icon Meiko Kaji takes center stage with her first-ever U.S. appearance, celebrating decades of legendary performances. Beyond Fest will honor her career with a rare series of 2K restorations, including LADY SNOWBLOOD, FEMALE PRISONER #701: SCORPION, STRAY CAT ROCK: DELINQUENT GIRL BOSS, and BLIND WOMAN’S CURSE. Oscar-winner Sean Baker will join Kaji in conversation, offering audiences a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the charisma, ferocity, and enduring influence of one of Japanese Cinema’s most electrifying figures.

William Petersen is celebrated with TO LIVE AND DIE IN L.A. and a screening of MANHUNTER, Tim Robbins joins for the World Premiere of the 4K restoration of JACOB’S LADDER paired with Altman’s acerbic Hollywood takedown THE PLAYER, the Horror Master himself, Ryuhei Kitamura joins to celebrate his kaiju-tastic GODZILLA: FINAL WARS; John Carpenter, joins for an impossibly rare 70mm screening of BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA, Rob Reiner channels his Stephen King with a double bill of STAND BY ME and MISERY, Al Pacino takes us back to the technicolor explosion of DICK TRACY, a special screening of HOUSE with Willam Katt, we celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Karyn Kusama’s THE INVITATION with a special cast and filmmaker reunion, Gore Verbinski returns to the Egyptian Theatre for a very special screening of THE RING and the legendary Butthole Surfers reunite in person for Tom Stern’s THE BUTTHOLE SURFERS: THE HOLE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUTT.

New Genre titles gleefully splatter the screen with adrenaline, horror, and unrelenting creativity, including West Coast Premieres including West Coast Premieres of PRIMATE, where a group of friends’ tropical vacation turns into a terrifying, primal tale of horror and survival,, the viral sensation GOOD BOY, the beloved V/H/S franchise returns with V/H/S/HALLOWEEN, NIGHT PATROL exposes a sinister secret lurking the mean streets of L.A, Chris Stuckmann brings his mystery shocker SHELBY OAKS, Eli Roth and his Horror Section premiere their new nightmare DREAM EATER, and Japanese comedy sensation turned director Yuriyan Retriever’s horror debut MAG MAG will also receive its World Premiere. Fresh from its Venice bow, director David Kittredge brings the electrifying BOORMAN AND THE DEVIL, paired with an uber-rare 35mm screening of THE EXORCIST II: THE HERETIC courtesy of the Martin Scorsese Collection. West Coast prems go to serial maniac Todd Rohal, who brings the most outrageous film of the decade and asks you to FUCK MY SON!, time travelers Matt Johnson and Jay McCarrol desperately try to play the Rivoli with NIRVANNA THE BAND THE SHOW THE MOVIE, and horror comedy QUEENS OF THE DEAD directed by Tina Romero and the highly anticipated World Premiere of THE BOULET BROTHERS’ DRAGULA: TITANS season two, hosted by Queens of Darkness Dracmorda and Swanthula Boulet.

Cinematic treasures are reborn with stunning restorations, including the World Premiere of Tobe Hooper’s SALEM’S LOT in a brand new 4K restoration, exclusively at BeyondFest. Mamoru Oshii’s seminal THE RED SPECTACLES 4K restoration also gets its World Premiere, Abel Ferrara’s lightning bolt MS. 45 4K restoration receives its International Premiere, and Ruggero Deodata’s definitive downer, CANNIBAL HOLOCAUST, enjoys its World Premiere uncut and in glorious technicolor 4K courtesy of Bob Murawski’s Grindhouse Releasing, the North American Premiere of the new restoration of DAY OF THE DOLPHIN and Rob Zombie and Sheri Moon Zombie join in person to celebrate the premiere of a brand new, 20th anniversary restoration of THE DEVIL’S REJECTS.

Los Feliz 3 at Beyond Fest 2025 is a powerhouse of premieres, restorations, and world-class genre Cinema and completely FREE thanks to the kind generosity of NEON. The lineup features the World Premiere of KILLING FAITH from director Ned Crowley, featuring DeWanda Wise and Bill Pullman, and US premiere’s of Eric Owen’s vicious noir IN A COLD VEIN, Brock Bodell’s tense and nail-biting HELLCAT, Julie Pacino’s extraordinary I LIVE HERE NOW, powerhouse director Alice Maio Mackay’s blistering queer horror THE SERPENT’S SKIN, William Bagley’s action filled horror-comedy HOLD THE FORT, Cristian Ponce’s new cosmic live-action animation horror THE KIRLIAN FREQUENCY, Peter S. Hall and Paul Gandersman’s occult madness MAN FINDS TAPE, Mickey Reece’s pitch-black EVERY HEAVY THING, and Kenji Iwaisawa’s life-affirming anime 100 METERS bring fresh voices to the festival. Audiences can also experience West Coast premieres of Ben Wheatley’s unhinged lo-fi sci-fi epic BULK, Marco Dutra’s apocalyptic horror BURY YOUR DEAD, Xander Robin’s deranged THE PYTHON HUNT, Lucile Hadžihalilović’s elegant and impeccable THE ICE TOWER, Yuta Shimotsu’s eerily unnerving NEW GROUP, Hélène Cattet and Bruno Forzani’s perfect in every way REFLECTION IN A DEAD DIAMOND, and Josh C. Waller’s unique and stunning THE LONE SAMURAI, while rare restorations like Vaughn Christion’s SILENT DEATH – a Terror Vision Lost & Found special, Charlie Ahearn’s restored seminal film WILD STYLE in eye-popping 4k, MS. 45 in a brand new 4K restoration and Mamoru Oshii’s restored rarity ANGEL’s EGG in 4K complete a diverse, high-energy program that highlights both new talent and cult classics.

“We’re incredibly proud to push Beyond Fest’s scope, encompassing some of the world’s best filmmakers; it’s a celebration of cinema without borders or compromise that embodies both the festival and the American Cinematheque,” said Chris LeMaire, American Cinematheque Senior Film Programmer. “Bringing together the work of auteurs such as Jafar Panahi, Bi Gan, Radu Jude, Yorgos Lanthimos, Oliver Laxe, and Kleber Mendonça Filho, we’ve captured some of the most exciting and visionary cinema the world has to offer.”

The next generation of genre filmmakers takes center stage at Beyond Fest 2025 with FIVE dedicated short film blocks at Los Feliz 3, carefully curated to showcase the best new and diverse voices in horror, sci-fi, and fantasy. Further details will be announced in the coming days.

See below for the full lineup of newly announced feature film titles for Beyond Fest 2025. Tickets will be on sale via americancinematheque.com on Thursday, September 11th at 10:00 AM PST. Visit beyondfest.com and americancinematheque.com for details.

BEYOND FEST 2025 PROGRAM

EGYPTIAN THEATRE

BUTTHOLE SURFERS: THE HOLE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUTT

West Coast Premiere

Director: Tom J. Stern

Country: United States

Runtime: 106 minutes

Year: 2025

Guests:

 

PRIMATE

West Coast Premiere

Director: Johannes Roberts

Country: United States

Runtime: 89 minutes

Distributor: Paramount Pictures

Year: 2025

 

GOOD BOY

West Coast Premiere

Director: Ben Leonberg

Country: United States

Runtime: 102 minutes

Distributor: Shudder

Year: 2024

Guests: Ben Leonberg, Shane Jensen, Dog Actor Indy

 

SISU: ROAD TO REVENGE

West Coast Premiere

Director: Jalmari Helander

Country: Finland / United States

Distributor: Sony Pictures’ Stage 6 Films & Screen Gems

Runtime: 88 minutes

Year: 2025

 

EXIT 8

U.S. Premiere

Director: Genki Kawamura

Country: Japan

Runtime: 95 minutes

Distributor: NEON

Year: 2025

 

THE FURIOUS

U.S. Premiere

Director: Kenji Tanigaki

Country: Hong Kong, China

Runtime: 113 minutes

Year: 2025

Guests: Kenji Tanigaki

 

FUCK MY SON!

West Coast Premiere

Director: Todd Rohal

Country: United States

Runtime: 94 minutes

2025

Guests: Todd Rohal, Johnny Ryan

 

TO LIVE AND DIE IN LA

Special Screening

Director: William Friedkin

Country: United States

Runtime: 123 minutes

Distributor: Park Circus

Year: 1985

Guests: William Petersen

 

BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA — 70mm Presentation

Special Screening

Director: John Carpenter

Country: United States

Runtime: 99 minutes

Distributor: 20th Century Fox

Year: 1986

Guests: John Carpenter, Dean Cundey

 

MANHUNTER

Special Screening

Director: Michael Mann

Country: United States

Runtime: 120 minutes

Distributor: Rialto Pictures

Year: 1986

Guests: William Petersen

 

THE PLAYER

Special Screening

Director: Robert Altman

Country: United States

Runtime: 124 minutes

Distributor: Janus Films

Year: 1992

Guests: Tim Robbins

 

JACOB’S LADDER

World Premiere – 4K Restoration

Director: Adrian Lyne

Country: United States

Runtime: 113 minutes

Distributor: Rialto Pictures

Year: 1990

Guests: Tim Robbins

 

NIRVANNA THE BAND, THE SHOW, THE MOVIE

West Coast Premiere

Director: Matt Johnson

Country: Canada

Runtime: 100 minutes

Distributor: NEON

Year: 2025

Guests: Matt Johnson, Jay McCarrol

 

THE RING

Special Screening

Director: Gore Verbinski

Country: United States

Runtime: 115 minutes

Distributor: Paramount Pictures

Year: 2002

Guests: Gore Verbinski

 

SHELBY OAKS

West Coast Premiere

Director: Chris Stuckmann

Country: United States

Runtime: 99 minutes

Distributor: NEON

Year: 2024

Guests: Chris Stuckmann

 

DREAM EATER

L.A. Premiere

Director: Jay Drakulic, Mallory Drumm, Alex Lee Williams

Country: United States

Runtime: 86 minutes

Distributor: The Horror Section

Year: 2025

Guests: Jay Drakulic, Mallory Drumm, Alex Lee Williams, Eli Roth

 

DUST BUNNY

U.S. Premiere

Director: Bryan Fuller

Country: United States

Runtime: 106 minutes

Distributor: Lionsgate

Year: 2025

Guests: Bryan Fuller

 

MAG MAG

World Premiere

Director: Yuriyan Retriever

Country: Japan

Runtime: 118 minutes

Year: 2025

Guests: Director Yuriyan Retriever, lead actress Sara Minami, producer Daisuke Takahashi

 

GOOD LUCK, HAVE FUN, DON’T DIE

Special Screening

Director: Gore Verbinski

Country: United States / Germany

Runtime: 100 minutes

Distributor: Briarcliff Entertainment

Year: 2026

 

LADY SNOWBLOOD

Special Screening

Director: Toshiya Fujita

Country: Japan

Runtime: 97 minutes

Distributor: Janus Films

Year: 1973

Guests: Meiko Kaji

 

LADY SNOWBLOOD: LOVE SONG OF VENGEANCE

Special Screening

Director: Toshiya Fujita

Country: Japan

Runtime: 89 minutes

Distributor: Janus Films

Year: 1974

Guests: Meiko Kaji

 

FEMALE PRISONER #701: SCORPION

Special Screening – 2K Restoration

Director: Shun’ya Itō

Country: Japan

Runtime: 87 minutes

Distributor: AGFA

Year: 1972

Guests: Meiko Kaji

 

BLIND WOMAN’S CURSE

Special Screening

Director: Teruo Ishii

Country: Japan

Runtime: 85 minutes

Distributor: AGFA

Year: 1970

Guests: Meiko Kaji

 

In The Mood For Love

CRIMSON PEAK – 4K Restoration

World Premiere

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Country: United States

Runtime: 119 mins

Distributor: Universal Pictures

Year: 2015

Guests – Guillermo Del Toro

 

NIGHTMARE ALLEY – VISION IN DARKNESS AND LIGHT

Special Screening

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Country: United States / Mexico / Canada

Runtime: 159 mins

Distributor: Searchlight Pictures

Year: 2021

Guests – Guillermo Del Toro

 

THE SHAPE OF WATER – 4K Restoration

World Premiere

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Country: United States

Runtime: 123 mins

Distributor: Searchlight Pictures

Year: 2017

Guests – Guillermo Del Toro

 

From Sketch to Screen

 

HELLBOY

Special Screening – format: N/A

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Country: United States

Runtime: 122 mins

Distributor: Park Circus

Year: 2004

Guests – Guillermo Del Toro

 

HELLBOY II: THE GOLDEN ARMY

Special Screening – format: N/A

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Country: United States

Runtime: 120 mins

Distributor: Universal Pictures

Year: 2008

Guests – Guillermo Del Toro

 

BLADE II

Special Screening – format: N/A

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Country: United States

Runtime: 117 mins

Distributor: Warner Bros

Year: 2002

Guests – Guillermo Del Toro

 

CRONOS – 4K Restoration

World Premiere

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Country: Mexico

Runtime: 92 mins

Distributor: Janus Films

Year: 1993

Guests – Guillermo Del Toro

 

THE DEVIL’S BACKBONE

Special Screening – format: N/A

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Country: Spain/Mexico

Runtime: 106 mins

Distributor: Sony Pictures Classics

Year: 2001

Guests – Guillermo Del Toro

 

MIMIC – Director’s Cut

Special Screening – format: N/A

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Country: United States

Runtime: 105 mins

Distributor: Paramount Pictures

Year: 1997

Guests – Guillermo Del Toro

 

The Revolution

 

PAN’S LABYRINTH

Special Screening – format: N/A

Director: Guillermo del Toro

Country: Spain/Mexico

Runtime: 120 mins

Distributor: Warner Bros.

Year: 2006

Guests – Guillermo Del Toro

 

GOOD FORTUNE

West Coast Premiere

Director: Aziz Ansari

Country: United States

Runtime: 98 minutes

Distributor: Lionsgate

Year: 2025

Guests: Aziz Ansari

 

AERO THEATRE PRESENTED BY NEON

 

NO OTHER CHOICE

U.S. Premiere

Director: Park Chan-wook

Country: South Korea

Runtime: 139 minutes

Distributor: NEON

Year: 2025

 

BOORMAN AND THE DEVIL

North American Premiere

Director: David Kittredge

Country: United States

Runtime: 112 minutes

Year: 2025

Guests: David Kittredge, Linda Blair, Garrett Brown, Travis Stevens

 

EXORCIST II: THE HERETIC

Special Screening – 35mm Print Courtesy of the Martin Scorsese Collection at the George Eastman Museum

Director: John Boorman

Country: United States

Runtime: 117 minutes

Distributor: Park Circus

Year: 1977

Guests: None listed

 

BARRIO TRISTE

West Coast Premiere

Director: Stillz

Country: Colombia / United States

Runtime: 84 minutes

Distributor: EDGLRD

Year: 2025

 

THE RED SPECTACLES

World Premiere – 4K Restoration

Director: Mamoru Oshii

Country: Japan

Runtime: 106 minutes

Distributor: Arbelos Films

Year: 1987

 

IF I HAD LEGS I’D KICK YOU

West Coast Premiere

Director: Mary Bronstein

Country: United States

Runtime: 113 minutes

Distributor: A24

Year: 2025

Guests: Rose Byrne, Conan O’Brien, Danielle Macdonald, Mary Bronstein

 

URCHIN

West Coast Premiere

Director: Harris Dickinson

Country: United Kingdom

Runtime: 99 minutes

Distributor: 1-2 Special

Year: 2025

 

DRACULA

West Coast Premiere

Director: Radu Jude

Country: Romania

Runtime: 125 minutes

Distributor: 1-2 Special

Year: 2025

 

DICK TRACY

Special 35th Anniversary Screening

Director Warren Beatty

Country United States

Runtime 105 minutes

Distributor: Disney

Year: 1990

Guests Al Pacino

 

THE DAY OF THE DOLPHIN – Cinematic Void Presents

World Premiere – 4K Restoration

Director: Mike Nichols

Country: United States

Runtime: 104 minutes

Distributor: Rialto Pictures

Year: 1973

 

SALEM’S LOT

World Premiere – 4K Restoration

Director: Tobe Hooper

Country: United States

Runtime: 183 minutes

Distributor: Warner Bros.

Year: 1979

 

HOUSE

Special 40th Anniversary Screening

Director: Steve Miner

Country: United States

Runtime: 93 minutes

Distributor: AGFA

Year: 1985

Guests: William Katt

 

NIGHT PATROL

West Coast Premiere

Director: Ryan Prows

Country: USA

Runtime: 104 minutes

Distributor: RLJE Films/ Shudder

Year: 2025

Guests: Ryan Prows, RJ Cyler, Flying Lotus

 

V/H/S/HALLOWEEN

West Coast Premiere

Directors: Bryan M. Ferguson, Casper Kelly, Micheline Pitt-Norman & R.H. Norman, Alex Ross Perry, Paco Plaza, Anna Zlokovic

Country: United States

Runtime: 115 minutes

Distributor: Shudder

Year: 2025

RuneScape: Dragonwilds 0.9 Update Out Now

3 months ago
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

Become a master of ranged combat with the new Ranged Skill, unlock powerful Spells, and unleash your imagination in the all-new Creative Mode. RuneScape: Dragonwild’s 0.9 Update launches today as a major expansion for the beloved open-world survival crafting game.

Master ranged combat with the new Ranged Skill and return to Ashenfall wielding Crossbows, a versatile mid-range weapon. Plot your course to Level 50, unlocking a range of new Spells, including two powerful Skill Spells: ‘Snare’ and ‘Spectral Arrows.’

Stop your enemies in their tracks with Snare, a new entangling spell that roots targets and leaves them exposed. Or enchant your arrows with Astral Magic to unleash a powerful attack that pierces multiple enemies.

Let your imagination run wild with the new Creative Mode, a fresh way for base-building fans to enjoy RuneScape: Dragonwilds, free from survival friction.

Build without limits in Creative Mode, where every building piece is unlocked, materials cost nothing, and carry weight is infinite. Enter a new Creative World with maxed Skills, all Crafting recipes unlocked, no enemy attacks, and forever-full Hunger, Thirst and Rest for a truly relaxing, uninterrupted building experience.

RuneScape: Dragonwilds 0.9 Update Key Features:

  • Ranged Skill – Level up to 50, unlock new spells, and craft arrows with the Fletching Table
  • Crossbows – A new one-handed weapon for versatile ranged combat, allowing shields or torches in the off-hand.
  • Skill Spells – Master Snare and Spectral Arrows for tactical ranged playstyle advantages
  • Creative Mode – Build without limits: maxed Skills, no survival constraints, all recipes unlocked.
  • Multiplayer Protection – Secure your chests and gravestone with new privacy options and protect your bases from player-tampering by placing Protection Totems. 
  • Custom World Settings – Customise your own world by adjusting enemy health, hunger and thirst rates, processing stations speeds, durability and drop rates to create the perfect world for you and your friends.
  • Quality of Life Improvements – Enjoy upgraded controller support, customisable key rebinding, additional character slots, and a range of bug fixes, performance enhancements, and stability improvements.

For the full list of features included in RuneScape: Dragonwilds’ 0.9 Update, check out this blog post.

Spectral Scream 1st Anniversary Update Trailer

3 months ago
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, Halloween, News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

STOIC Entertainment, a cross-platform game developer, today announced the first major update for its multiplayer horror survival game Spectral Scream. Titled “The Ghost Station”, the update arrives in September, adding a brand-new map packed with fresh scares.

Spectral Scream was officially released on Steam on August 29, 2024, and is a cross-platform game that has recorded the #1 most popular upcoming game, #1 most popular horror game, #1 game under 10,000 won, #1 most popular VR product, and a very positive cumulative user review. It was also nominated for Best AR VR Game at the Global Game Engine Unity Awards 2024. This update is the first step in a long-term roadmap. STOIC Entertainment plans to continue expanding the title with new maps, scenarios, and creatures, positioning Spectral Scream as a growing cooperative horror franchise with ongoing live service.

In addition, STOIC plans to soon release a patch adding support for Xbox and other gamepads, enhancing convenience for players in North America and Europe.

New Map: “The Ghost Station” – A Subway Trapped in a Time Loop
The update introduces a brand-new map, The Ghost Station, and new boss monsters.

Players must survive within a cursed subway station caught in an endless time loop, navigating between areas by boarding a ghost train that arrives at set intervals. To escape, they must collect scattered tickets, unlock gates, and ultimately secure the final Orb. The station is haunted by new threats, including the boss “Burdened Stationmaster”, whose unpredictable patrols keep players on edge, and “Ostiumortis”, a trap monster disguised as a door.

A Distinctive Horror Experience
STOIC Entertainment emphasizes that The Ghost Station goes beyond traditional chase horror. The environment itself becomes a source of psychological terror, with time-based mechanics, strategic decision points, and high-risk, high-reward gameplay that deliver a uniquely immersive horror experience rarely found in the genre.

Global Events and Promotions
To celebrate the Ghost Station update, Spectral Scream will offer Steam discount promotions (50% off for 7 days) and will also host a two-week gameplay event in collaboration with G.Round (https://gameround.co/), a global game testing and marketing platform.

During the event, players can earn rewards through competitive challenges and giveaways (available to those who play more than two hours or clear specific chapters). Prizes include Nintendo Switch 2 consoles, Steam Gift Cards, and more.

Planet of Lana II: Children of the Leaf Announcement Trailer

3 months ago
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 4 News, PlayStation 5 News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News, Xbox One News, Xbox Series X News

Wishfully Studios and Thunderful are pleased to announce that their recently revealed cinematic puzzle adventure, Planet of Lana II: Children of the Leaf, is coming to Nintendo Switch 2. The game will release simultaneously on Switch 2 alongside previously announced platforms, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Game Pass, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch in early 2026.

In Planet of Lana II: Children of the Leaf, players will embark on an unforgettable journey with Lana and her loyal companion Mui, stepping into a new adventure where an ancient mystery emerges from Novo’s hidden depths. As they scour these depths, a new threat will put their unbreakable bond to the ultimate test, guiding Lana to confront her destiny amidst encroaching shadows. Perfect for new players and returning fans, the game features an original story with touching themes of friendship, tougher challenges and evolved gameplay.

Game directors Adam Stjärnljus and Klas Martin Eriksson, along with composer Takeshi Furukawa, will be heading to Japan this month to show off Planet of Lana II at the Tokyo Game Show, taking place between 25th – 28th September. Tokyo Game Show will be the first time the general public will have the opportunity to go hands-on with the game, taking in four brand new biomes while exploring a wealth of new features and mechanics!

Key gameplay features that await players in Planet of Lana II: Children of the Leaf include:

  • Unique, Evolved Companion Gameplay: Experience Lana and Mui’s profound, evolving bond. Guide Mui with enhanced precision for deep exploration and collaborative puzzle-solving.
  • Solve Diverse & Clever Puzzles: Tackle a wider array of physics-based puzzles, including hypnotizing spectacular creatures and controlling new hybrid robots for unique solutions.
  • Master Stealth & Wit: Carefully navigate dangerous situations using refined stealth mechanics and tactical wit to outsmart foes.
  • Survive Challenging Action Sequences: Use your reflexes and master Lana’s new agility with wall jumps, run-slides, and faster movement to survive thrilling, dynamic action sequences.
  • Discover an Epic & Deeper Story: Immerse in a longer, more profound sci-fi saga. Confront Lana’s own demons and unveil the planet’s darkest secrets across stunning, diverse worlds, including new underwater chapters.

Return of an Acclaimed Composer: Experience Takeshi Furukawa’s critically acclaimed score, from the original Planet of Lana. His mesmerizing compositions seamlessly elevate every emotional beat and cinematic moment.

World of Tanks Surges to 413,399 Peak Concurrent Players with Update 2.0 Launch

3 months ago
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Windows PC News

Wargaming announced today that on September 7, at 14.00 UTC World of Tanks reached 413,399 peak concurrent players following the launch of Update 2.0, which introduced the first-ever Tier XI tanks. The update sparked global excitement across EU, NA, APAC, and China, with record numbers achieved across Wargaming Game Center and Steam.

“This incredible milestone was only possible thanks to our community.” said Michael Broek, World of Tanks Publishing Director West. “We are grateful to every commander who joined the battlefield for Update 2.0. Your dedication and excitement continue to inspire us to make World of Tanks better with every update.”

Since the update’s release:

  • More than 300.000 players unlocked Tier XI tanks.
  • Top 5 most popular Tier XI tanks are: Taschenratte, KR-1, T803, Leopard 120 Verbessert and Hirschkäfer.

For more information about Update 2.0, visit https://worldoftanks.eu/en/news/updates/2-0-hub/.

Stygian: Outer Gods – Updated Early Access Road Map Released

3 months ago
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Windows PC News

Fulqrum Publishing and Misterial Games’ has provided an updated Early Access roadmap for survival horror game Stygian: Outer Gods, now available via Steam and GoG.

The first content update Souls of the Silent Tide has just arrived, but the Early access support is only gaining momentum. The next update coming this Fall expands the borders of Kingsport and will feature a new location: The Mansion. Among its surroundings, players will discover new characters and enemies, along with new mechanics, quests, weapons and artifacts, and the addition of more voice-over talents.

Garfield Kart 2 – All You Can Drift Launch Trailer

3 months ago
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5 News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News, Xbox Series X News

He’s traded his lasagna plate for a steering wheel. Garfield is back, burning rubber and stealing the spotlight in his launch trailer! The world’s laziest cat is off the couch and on the track in Garfield Kart 2 – All You Can Drift, developed by Eden Games. Now available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC.

Get ready for high-speed chaos, slick drifts, and perfectly timed dirty tricks. Toss lasagnas, dodge traps, and outsmart your friends, fair play not guaranteed. Start your engines and get set for wild, wacky races where only the craftiest cat comes out on top!

About Garfield Kart 2 – All You Can Drift
Garfield, Odie, Nermal, and the whole crew are at the starting line, raring to go! Play as one of the eight beloved characters from the Garfield universe, fill up your karts, customize your look, and race away at breakneck speeds.

Take a wild ride through an unhinged universe, where there’s a surprise waiting around every turn. Pirate, western, or detective: Garfield speeds through brightly colored worlds to prove that, even in his dreams, he’s the king! Use shortcuts or bonus items to change the course of races and create unforgettable moments with friends through local and online multiplayer modes.

Acclaim Unveils Exciting New Game Lineup

3 months ago
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, Industry News, News
Acclaim, the legendary gaming icon, today held  its inaugural “Play Acclaim” video presentation, revealing a dynamic first wave of games that mark the company’s bold return to the industry. The full presentation is now available to watch on Acclaim’s YouTube channel, and fans can explore more at www.PlayAcclaim.com.
 
The Play Acclaim showcase featured nine unique titles, blending innovative gameplay with nostalgic flair: Talaka, GRIDBeat!, Pixel Washer, TossDown, Hyper Yuki, Ground Zero Hero, Basketball Classic, The Prisoning: Fletcher’s Quest. In addition, in a special surprise announcement, Katanaut is available now
 
The Play Acclaim Showcase can be viewed HERE 
 
“We’re ecstatic to relaunch Acclaim with a lineup that captures our legacy of bold creativity and delivers fresh, unforgettable experiences,” said Alex Josef, CEO of Acclaim. “These games are just the beginning of our mission to redefine fun for players everywhere.”
 
Highlights from the lineup include:
  • TossDown (PC, Developer: Fer Factor):  Run, jump, and dash through chaos, dodging hazards and enemies as you deliver packages. Fight back with wacky power-ups and chaos from a variety of perks to improve your chances of survival. It’s Crazy Taxi meets Jet Set Radio!
  • Ground Zero Hero (PC, Developer: Rowan Edmondson): Ground Zero Hero is an action-roguelite with light survival elements set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland. Battle mutated freaks, absorb their radioactive guts, mutate yourself to gain new powers… and eat a lot of candy.
  • Basketball Classics (Nintendo Switch, Developer: Namo Gamo): A 5 on 5 Pro Basketball game born from the golden era of sports games. This spiritual successor to the 8-bit ballers bridges the gap between retro and today’s simulation games. Side-scrolling, sweaty arcade action with simplified 3-button gameplay and retro vibes galore.
  • Pixel Washer (PC, Developer: Valadria): Step into the hooves of Pigxel, a plucky pig armed with a powerful power washer, tasked with cleaning up a messy town. Wielding your trusty washer, you’ll spray your way through a variety of exciting challenges, from hosing down stunning pixel art masterpieces in a filthy museum to transforming a muddy pigsty into a shimmering pixelated paradise and more.
  • The Prisoning: Fletcher’s Quest (PC, Developer: Elden Pixels): Step into the mind of Fletcher Howie Jr, a game developer on the brink of physical and emotional burnout during the final stages of an intense project. After a visit to the psychologist that goes horribly wrong, you must escape your perilous mental prison in a Metroidvania drenched in anxiety based on a very true story.
  • GRIDBeat! (PC, Developer: Ridiculous Games): Step behind the keyboard of a shadowy hacker and move to the beat as you infiltrate virtual dungeons teeming with traps to evade and systems to hack.  Featuring more than 50 neon-saturated stages to explore and endless additional content in the form of user-generated stages, GRIDBeat! will put your skills and your rhythm to the test.
  • Talaka (PC, Developer: Potato Kid): A fast-paced, combat-driven roguelite that brings Afro-Brazilian mythology to life in a vivid, hand-painted world unlike anything you’ve seen.
  • Hyper Yuki (PC, Developer: Wabisabi Design, Inc): A high-speed, trick-fueled snowboarding bonanza wrapped in a slick, retro-futurist Y2K aesthetic. Inspired by 90s legends like Cool Boarders and SSX, you’ll shred through eight over-the-top courses packed with chances to pull off jaw-dropping tricks—all set to an electrifying soundtrack featuring YMCK, Trasto NueveVidas, and more.
  • Katanaut (PC, Developer: Voidmaw): An action-roguelite set aboard a massive space station falling into cosmic chaos. With the station slowly spiraling out of control, and its once-human inhabitants twisted into terrors, you’re the unlucky one tasked with uncovering what is going on… assuming you’re able to survive the station’s violent halls with souls-like combat.
 
The “Acclaim Direct” presentation, now streaming on Acclaim’s YouTube channel, features gameplay trailers and a glimpse into Acclaim’s bold future. Each title is designed to captivate both longtime fans and new players.
 
Acclaim invites gamers, media, and industry partners to join the journey by watching the presentation, following Acclaim on social media, and visiting www.PlayAcclaim.com for updates on demos, betas, and future “Acclaim Direct” showcases.

Ara: History Untold v2.0 Release Date Announcement

3 months ago
Jerry Paxton
Geek News, News, Windows PC News

Stardock Entertainment and Oxide Games, in partnership with Xbox Game Studios, announced Ara: History Untold – Version 2.0 today. Dubbed the Revolutions Update, version 2.0 is a massive expansion of new features and content.

Informed by community feedback, the Revolutions Update adds a new Culture and Influence System, gives each nation its own unique unit, gives greater player control while simultaneously reducing micromanagement, improves performance, includes a major AI revamp and much more.

Key Features of the Revolutions Update:
   •
Culture & Influence Systems – Cities gain a new quality of life category called Culture. Culture generates Influence, a new currency used to acquire cultural traits and expand territory through claims. This creates meaningful alternatives to military expansion.
   •
Agitator Unit – Introduced with the Revolutions technology at the end of the Renaissance, Agitators can be sent into adjacent foreign regions to stir rebellion and, through Influence, bring those territories into your nation. This unlocks a second form of conquest in Act II: ideological subversion.
   •
Per-Nation Units – Every civilization now commands unique historical forces, from Mongol Horse Archers to Japanese Samurai, adding tactical depth and flavor.
   •
Leader Redesigns – Every leader has been reimagined with unique mechanics, traits, and abilities, ensuring more replayability and personality-driven diplomacy.
   •
Priority & Quota Crafting System – Micromanaged production queues are replaced with smarter stockpile and priority controls, freeing players to focus on high-level strategy.
   •
Adaptive AI – A more dynamic and personality-driven AI responds to player performance, making diplomacy, warfare, and resource management more challenging and believable.
   •
Map Generation Overhaul – Realistic natural resource clustering plus new exclusivity rules modeling historical trade and competition.
   •
High DPI UI & Visual Update – A sharper, scalable UI built for modern displays, with new accessibility and customization options.
   •
Performance Boosts – Major engine optimizations deliver faster turns, smoother framerates, and reduced CPU usage.
Ara: History Untold offers a fresh take on historical turn-based strategy where players can build a nation that spans all of human history. Heavily inspired by player feedback, the v2.0 update delivers new and refined features that make the game more approachable for new and existing players.
“We’re really excited to bring Culture as a game mechanic into Ara,” said Brad Wardell, Chief Executive Officer for Stardock and Oxide. “The role of ‘soft power’ cannot be overstated. While military conquest remains the most direct way of expanding one’s territory, we really wanted to give players other means of expanding their control of the world. This is especially true in the late game when the explore and expand parts of the game have reached their maximum.”