Author - Jerry Paxton

Outer Wilds: Archaeologist Edition – Physical Edition Announcement Trailer

iam8bit, in collaboration with publisher Annapurna Interactive and developer Mobius Digital, have announced preorders for BAFTA award-winning game Outer Wilds: Archaeologist Edition, an action-adventure open-world mystery where you play as a new recruit trying to uncover secrets within a constantly evolving solar system. The Retail Edition will be available for $39.99 on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5, while the iam8bit Collector’s Edition will be available on those same platforms for $99.99.

Enter Outer Wilds Ventures with the Retail Edition, which includes the base game and Echoes of the Eye expansion as well as a foldout planetary chart poster by Mobius Digital concept artist Ian Jacobson. Available at retailers worldwide, the Retail Edition will be released for sale on June 27.

The iam8bit Collector’s Edition will include a vital Canvas Traveler’s Adventure Bag, a combination Explorer’s journal and game sleeve to log in crucial discoveries, Chert’s signature bandana, a set of 7 Planetary Patches, Eye of the universe clasp and bonus item from a doomed timeline. Additionally, players will snag the base game and Echoes of the Eye expansion, complete on cartridge/disc. Shipping begins Q3 2024.

The Art of Outer Wilds Hardcover Book features 300-pages of concept art including never-before-seen images, and behind-the-scenes creative direction written by Wesley Martin, Art Director at Mobius Digital. Designed by Mobius Digital’s Ian Jacobson, with additional publication design by Laleh Roya Azarshin and design support from Josh Lanphear, this essential guide to deep space will be sure to answer all Outer Wilds questions.

Players can complete their journey and take home the cloth-bound Echoes of the Eye 2xLP Vinyl Soundtrack, shipping Q2 2024, which features music by Andrew Prahlow and album art by Ian Jacobson.

All retail editions, vinyl and art book of Outer Wilds can be preordered starting February 29 from outerwilds.iam8bit.com.

Viking Survival Game ASKA Closed Beta Test Announced

The Eye of Odin shines upon you this day! The next Closed Beta for ASKA, a third-person Viking sandbox survival builder from Romanian indie developer Sand Sailor Studio, kicks off April 15 and will run until April 21. Players ready to embark on an exciting Viking expedition can sign up for a chance to join the closed beta by wishlisting ASKA on Steam, and heading over to the ASKA Discord for more information (closed beta sign-up closes on April 5).

In ASKA, players find themselves shipwrecked on a mysterious island where they must tame an uncharted land and build a Viking empire worthy of Odin’s praise. Solo or together with up to three friends, players must survive, summon intelligent NPC villagers, collect resources and build a thriving settlement. Players will need to automate, manage and defend their expanding tribe and prepare to survive the bitter winters.

“ASKA stands as a testament to what a dream-team of just 10 people can achieve over the course of 4 years: an ambitious co-op survival tribe builder where you’re never alone, where you work alongside lively AI villagers that are almost indistinguishable from players, all woven into a deep city builder-like economy system,” said Cristian Diaconescu, Creative Director at Sand Sailor Studio. “We’re entering the final phase of our beta testing period and we can’t wait to give players the power to build their very own truly functional Viking village, who knows what they’ll build.”

Developed as the third game installment by Sand Sailor Studios and published by Thunderful, ASKA’s unique gameplay lies in its AI systems. ASKA provides a unique flavor vs other survival games on the market, by giving players the opportunity to release themselves from the shackles of repetitive resource collection and management. The player is the master constructor, focusing on leading the tribe and designating the location of buildings. The intelligent AI NPCs are then assigned to work around the town, providing camaraderie and establishing a thriving village.

Budding Vikings ready to start their adventure are encouraged to wishlist the game today and visit www.playaska.com. Follow the latest ASKA news by joining Discord and becoming a follower on YouTubeTikTokInstagramTwitter/X and Facebook

King: Arthur: Knight’s Tale Out Now on Consoles

NeocoreGames is proud to announce that King: Arthur: Knight’s Tale has been officially released on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.

Console features

  • Graphical options: Players can choose between a Quality Mode offering 4K visuals, or a Performance Mode that prioritises framerate.
  • Local PvP: Challenge your friends on the battlefields of Avalon in local multiplayer.
  • Haptic Feedback: PS5 players can get closer to the battlefield than ever before, thanks to haptic feedback support for the DualSense controller.
  • Xbox Achievement and PlayStation Trophy tracking.

Support for this console release will continue long after launch with seasonal content, optional skirmishes, and more features coming at a later date.

King Arthur: Knight’s Tale is a unique hybrid between turn-based tactical games and traditional, character-centric RPGs. Knight’s Tale is a modern retelling of a classic Arthurian mythology story filtered through the dark fantasy tropes, a twist on the traditional tales of chivalry.

The game originally launched on PC, following a successful Kickstarter campaign in 2020 that earned the game a devoted and passionate fanbase. Since its original PC launch, the game has been lauded by critics, described by RPG Fan as “a top-notch tactical RPG” and “the definitive King Arthur game.

King Arthur: Legion IX, a brand new stand-alone adventure, set in the world of King Arthur: Knight’s Tale is also in the works for PC (Steam), featuring the (in)famous Ninth Legion of Rome.

Chef Life: A Restaurant Simulator Cooking Lab DLC Out Now

NACON and development studio Cyanide are pleased to announce that the Cooking Lab DLC for Chef Life: A Restaurant Simulator, from the LIFE range of games, is now available for free on all platforms

With the Cooking Lab, a new kitchen workstation is added to Chef Life: A Restaurant Simulator so players can create their own recipes from thousands of possible combinations. From the recipe’s core element to accompaniments, sauce and garnishes, everything can be customized to taste to create new signature dishes and refresh your menu. Creativity knows no bounds in Chef Life!

Budding chefs can also stay after the evening service to practise developing new dishes without time limits or other restrictions thanks to a patch that has already been rolled out.

With Chef Life: A Restaurant Simulator, players can live the life of a restaurant owner and hone their skills to one day be featured in the Michelin Guide and even receive its famous culinary distinctions. This can only be achieved through excellent cooking technique, selecting the best ingredients and leading a talented kitchen team so customers have a wonderful experience every day.

Chef Life: A Restaurant Simulator is now available on PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and PC.

Broforce Physical Editions Out Now on Switch and PS4

It’s time to suit up and join the Bros as the internationally acclaimed side-scrolling run ‘n’ gun extravaganza Broforce is out today as a boxed Standard and Deluxe Edition for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4.

Developed by Free Lives and published by Devolver Digital, the boxed Standard and Deluxe Editions will be created and distributed across European specialist retailers by U&I Entertainment.

Available today across European specialist stores, these two action-packed boxed editions pack a mighty punch and are the perfect addition to any fan’s gaming arsenal! The Standard Edition comes with the full physical Broforce game experience, including the Broforce Forever Update in a special artwork box. But for those who like their boxed content a little more hardcore, there is the Deluxe Edition, which bundles all the Standard Edition game content with an exclusive 24-page comic book that gives you a glimpse into the origins of Broforce and the rousing audible delights of the game soundtrack on CD all wrapped up in a collectable Tuck-in Box.

Heading Out Release Date Trailer

Saber Interactive has announced it is partnering with indie developer Serious Sim to publish the highly-stylized, immersive driving game Heading Out on May 7, 2024, on PC via Steam. Heading Out is a narrative adventure with roguelite elements inspired by cult classic road movies like Thelma & Louise and Vanishing Point. Check out the game’s new release date trailer for an up-close look at the lawless action and attitude that await when you put the pedal to the metal and leave your fears in the dust.

It’s you, your car, and the road. Take off down America’s cities, highways and backroads on an emotional trip of discovery blending white-knuckle racing, strategy and storytelling. Grab the wheel and choose your own route across the USA on an unpredictable thrill ride shaped by the decisions you make. It’s not about the destination – it’s about your journey.

Key Features

  • Your Adventure: Each trip offers a unique balance of high-speed chases and races, treacherous hazards and challenges, and colorful characters and stories, brought to life with stylish graphic novel visuals. Outrun your fears and the law, pursue your dreams, and risk the consequences at the end of the road.
  • Your Choices: Every journey is yours to define. Strategically plan out your route and resources in advance on the map, or hit the gas and fly by the seat of your pants. Each decision shapes the road ahead, including your narrative encounters, fuel consumption, car condition and wanted level.
  • Your Legend: Your unique story unfolds with every pitstop across the heartland. Meet strangers, oddballs and lost souls who’ll influence your tale, but don’t linger too long – you’ve got to keep moving. Listen to radio hosts spread your myth to the people as it grows while an eclectic Americana soundtrack carries you down the horizon.

Heading Out will be present at PAX East (March 21-24) with a playable demo at the Indie Games Poland booth, #18084. Don’t miss this chance to discover this immersive driving game firsthand.

TEKKEN 8 Sells Over 2 Million Copies Worldwide In First Month

Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. today announced that TEKKEN™ 8, the latest installment in the critically acclaimed TEKKEN™ series released on January 26, 2024, surpassed a total of 1 million units worldwide on its first day of release and 2 million units in the first month. Support for TEKKEN 8 will continue through various content updates, esports events, and music and licensing announcements. The game is available now on PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam®. For more information on the game, please visit www.tekken.com.

The next step in TEKKEN esports, the TEKKEN WORLD TOUR 2024, will start on April 13, 2024. After successful TEKKEN WORLD TOUR events that have accompanied the lifecycle of TEKKEN 7, now players will compete with TEKKEN 8 through TEKKEN WORLD TOUR 2024 events across the world to earn points and progress through the rankings, with the hope of reaching the TEKKEN WORLD TOUR Finals and having a chance to become the best TEKKEN 8 player worldwide.

As part of regular updates, the Tekken Shop is making its way into the game. This in-game shop will provide customization items such as costumes from previous installments, character skins for avatars, and licensed items from our collaborations, letting players put their own touch on their favorite TEKKEN characters.

TEKKEN 8 is the latest installment in seven years since TEKKEN 7 was released as a console game in 2017, and the first to be released on new-gen hardware. The legendary storyline, recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest-running video game narrative, continues in TEKKEN 8. The game’s Story Mode takes place six months after the events of TEKKEN 7 and features an epic saga about the growth and determination of Jin Kazama, who defies his fate and challenges his father Kazuya Mishima. The roster, made up of 32 characters that include new entries and returning favorites, has been completely remodelled from the ground up in Unreal® Engine 5. The game features a new system that encourages an “aggressive” playstyle, with destruction elements in the battle stages, and the new Heat System to provide the most exciting spectacle for both players and spectators.

TEKKEN 8 features exciting new game play modes to make the game easier to pick-up for newcomers. In Arcade Quest, basic mechanics can be learned and practiced while playing a new story-driven experience where players use their own custom avatar. In Super Ghost Battles, players can battle “ghost data” that simulates movements from other real players using AI learning. Another new feature in the game is Special Style, which allows players to perform various techniques and powerful combos much more easily. These new features and modes along with the stunning visual and visceral game play enhancements in the game have helped make TEKKEN 8 one of the most critically acclaimed titles in the legendary fighting game franchise. Sales of over 2 million copies in the first month of release greatly outpaces its predecessor, TEKKEN 7, which has the series’ total highest sales record of over 11.8 million copies sold worldwide.

DreadXP and Paramount Game Studios Announce Paranormal Activity Video Game

DreadXP — one of the most recognized horror video game publishers in the industry — DarkStone Digital, and Paramount Game Studios today announced plans to produce an all-new interactive game experience based on the blockbuster Paranormal Activity franchise. Known for hit titles such as The Mortuary Assistant, My Friendly Neighborhood, and the Dread X Collection series, DreadXP’s Paranormal Activity pairs the video game publisher’s expertise in crafting unique, unforgettable terrors with one of the biggest horror properties in the world.

DreadXP’s Paranormal Activity video game will bring the franchise’s groundbreaking found-footage style to horror enthusiasts in surprising new ways, immersing them in a story that expands upon the lore and world of the films. DreadXP co-director and creative director Brian Clarke (AKA DarkStone Digital), the developer of the acclaimed The Mortuary Assistant, leads the development of Paranormal Activity. The game will feature an advanced “Haunt System,” which will dynamically alter the types and intensity of scares players will encounter based on their actions.

“We are thrilled to work with Paramount Game Studios and to have the opportunity to bring the world of Paranormal Activity to gamers everywhere,” said Epic Pictures CEO and DreadXP producer Patrick Ewald. “The films are steeped in rich lore and creative scares, and under the stewardship of creative director Brian Clarke, DreadXP’s Paranormal Activity video game will honor those core tenets and offer horror fans one of our most terrifying games yet.”

“The success of the Paranormal Activity franchise epitomizes the power and reach of the horror genre,” said DreadXP co-director and creative director Brian Clarke. “If you thought The Mortuary Assistant was scary, we’re taking what we learned during the development of that title and cranking it up with a more reactive and horrifying haunting system. It’s going to be intense!”

Crown Wars: The Black Prince Gameplay Overview Trailer

A new gameplay video for Crown Wars: The Black Prince was released today, which shows all the main gameplay features of the turn-based tactics and strategy game. A pre-release demo of the game was playable during Steam Next Fest in early February. It received lots of positive reviews and attracted more than 10,000 players, placing it in the top 100 of most played demos. The game will launch on 14 March 2024 on PC, PS5TM and Xbox Series X|S.

Crown Wars: The Black Prince pays homage to turn-based tactical and strategic games genre, and aims to respect the conventions that this gaming community loves, including:

  • Mechanics for cover, positioning and skill combos: use the terrain and environment to your advantage
  • Complex turn-based tactical situations
  • Multiple primary and secondary objectives to complete
  • A wide variety of weapons to choose from and upgrade based on class and desired strategy
  • Over 100 class skills per character to unlock with a range of different effects (damage, slowing, healing, etc.)
  • A wide variety of finishing move cutscenes
In Crown Wars: The Black Prince, you are plunged into the middle of the Hundred Years’ War as several royal families engage in violent conflicts to decide who will control the most powerful kingdom in the western world. But a powerful Evil lurks in the shadows, and it could change the course of history. An occult and unholy organization known as the Order is sowing chaos across the kingdom in its quest for power.

FOAMSTARS Season 2 Groovy Disco Trailer

Today, SQUARE ENIX® announced FOAMSTARS™, the recently released online 4v4 foam party shooter, will launch its newest season, “GROOVY DISCO”, on March 8, 2024, at 5pm PST. New and returning players will soon have access to a new character, new modes, and a variety of new Free and Premium cosmetic content. FOAMSTARS is now available as a February PlayStation® Plus monthly game and PlayStation Plus subscribers can redeem, download, and play the game at no extra cost until March 4, 2024.

Season Two GROOVY DISCO is the second season of FOAMSTARS and will be available to all players beginning March 8, 2024, at 5pm PST, until April 12, 2024, at 5pm PST.

Season Two updates and highlights include:

  • A New FOAMSTAR Slides into the Party: Unlock and compete with the newest FOAMSTAR, “Coiff Guy“, teased in the Happy FriYAY Party event from Season One Starry Pop. “Coiff Guy” can be acquired by all players for free as a Tier 31 reward for the Season Pass or can be obtained immediately by purchasing the Premium Pass.
  • More FOAMSTAR Missions: Missions 4-6 have been added to FOAMSTAR Missions. Experience even more of the individual stories of the FOAMSTARS, learning more about their backgrounds and how to play as each character in the process and go head-to-head in a boss battle against “Dark Ramzey” in Mission 6.

The season will also feature the following limited-timed events:

  • Ranked Party: Rise in the FOAMSTARS ranks by competing in two limited-time seasonal events, the solo player-based Ranked Party Lonestar and team-based Ranked Party Tribe-Vibe. There are seven ranks to progress though – Bronze Star, Silver Star, Gold Star, Platinum Star, Diamond Star, Superstar and Party Legend. Earning enough Rank Points allows players to take part in the Rank-Up Trials.
  • Extreme Party: Challenge players in two special themed modes; the All Coiff Guy Party – where every player team competes to chill opponent teams as Coiff Guy, and the Super Duel Party, where players battle 1-on-1!
  • Happy FriYAY Party: A weekend-only party event with no winners or losers, just the opportunity to try-out next season’s FOAMSTAR.

Seasonal Event Dates*

  • Ranked Party Lonestar
    • Ranked Party Lonestar Dates: March 11, 2024, until March 28, 2024
  • Ranked Party Tribe-Vibe
    • April 4, 2024, Sunday, until April 7, 2024
  • Extreme Party – All Coiff Guy Party
    • March 22, 2024, until March 24, 2024
  • Extreme Party – Super Duel Party
    • March 29, 2024, until March 31, 2024
  • Happy FriYAY Party
    • Event Timings: First Half
      • March 14, 2024, and March 16, 2024
    • Event Timings: Second Half
      • April 4, 2024, and April 5, 2024

* Timings are PST. For local event timings, please visit the FOAMSTARS website and social channels