Author - Jerry Paxton

Star Trek Beams Back to San Diego for SDCC 2026

2026/07/15

Paramount+ and CBS Studios return to San Diego for this year’s Comic-Con® International, with unforgettable fan experiences in anticipation of the new season of the hit Paramount+ original series, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, and Star Trek’s 60th anniversary. The festivities include:

STAR TREK UNIVERSE HALL H PANEL:
Join the cast and executive producers of the hit Paramount+ Original Series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds for an exclusive look at what’s ahead, along with a special celebration of Star Trek‘s 60th anniversary featuring legendary talent from across the franchise. Expect exclusive footage, exciting reveals, surprise appearances, and unforgettable moments as we honor six decades of boldly going where no one has gone before.Scheduled to appear from STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS are Anson Mount, Rebecca Romijn, Ethan Peck, Christina Chong, Celia Rose Gooding, Melissa Navia, and Paul Wesley, alongside executive producers Akiva Goldsman, Henry Alonso Myers, and Alex Kurtzman.

The franchise’s 60th anniversary celebration will also feature a special intro from Eugene “Rod” Roddenberry and a panel with iconic cast members spanning the Star Trek universe, including Michael Dorn, Robert Picardo, Connor Trinneer, Cirroc Lofton, Doug Jones, Michelle Hurd, Jerry O’Connell, Christina Chong, Karim Diané, and the legendary George Takei. Saturday, July 25, 12:30 PM – 1:45 PM PT, Hall H
STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS SEASON FOUR FAN SCREENING:
Calling all Star Trek fans! Don’t miss an exciting big-screen event for Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, featuring the explosive season four premiere episode and an exclusive early screening of episode two days before it premieres on Paramount+. Guests will also enjoy surprise giveaways (while supplies last).Location: Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Date: Friday, July 24
Time: 6:00 PM PT Doors Open; 7:00 PM PT Screening Begins
RSVP: Admission is free, but RSVPs are required for entry on a reservation system: LINK HERE. Tickets are limited and will be distributed on a first come first serve basis. No badge is required for entry.
STAR TREK AT PARAMOUNT+ BOOTH:
Star Trek fans can also visit the Press Play Arcade, Paramount+’s official booth on the convention floor, featuring an array of arcade-style games themed to select Paramount+ Originals, including a Star Trek: Strange New Worlds “Bridge Command Memory Game.” A SDCC badge is required for entry. Booth #3529.
STAR TREK AT THE PARAMOUNT+ LODGE:
In celebration of the 60th anniversary of Star Trek and the new season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, the Paramount+ Lodge will include a series inspired Port Galley, featuring the original U.S.S. Enterprise model provided by the Roddenberry Estate. Located at Happy Does (340 Fifth Ave., San Diego, CA 92101) from Wednesday, July 22 – Sunday, July 26. This is not affiliated with Comic-Con.
STAR TREK OFFICIAL BADGES:
Strange New Worlds is taking over the physical SDCC badges with an image of the U.S.S. Enterprise over the San Diego Convention Center (badge image seen above).The badge design will also be available in the Official SDCC Digital Souvenir Book and also featured on a limited edition t-shirt available for purchase exclusively at the Official Comic-Con Merch Shop located in the Marriott.
ADDITIONAL STAR TREK PANELS/ACTIVATIONS:
STAR TREK: THE COLLECTOR FRONTIER PANEL
Captain, incoming transmission! Join Paramount Products & Experiences, the LEGO Group and Magic: The Gathering as we celebrate the 60th anniversary of Star Trek and the exciting products inspired by the iconic franchise. Enjoy exclusive reveals, meet the toy creators who bring these collaborations to life and win prizes! Thursday, July 23, 11-12pm, Room 5AB

STAR TREK: BOLDLY BUILT ACTIVATION
Two icons: the LEGO Group and Magic: The Gathering. One epic photo op. Step into the Star Trek universe like never before — where beloved toys become the backdrop for your next great adventure. Located at Marriott Marquis (333 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101). Open Thursday, July 23 through Sunday, July 26.

STAR TREK FLEET COMMAND: 60 YEARS OF STAR TREK ARCHIVES EXPERIENCE
In celebration of Star Trek’s 60th anniversary, Star Trek Fleet Command, the beloved mobile game from Scopely, will invite fans aboard an immersive archive experience. The off-site activation commemorates six decades of Star Trek through the lens of the game, featuring official archive pieces, a Holodeck VR experience, themed photo moments, exclusive swag, interactive claw machines with Star Trek prizes, and a souvenir photo station where guests can choose their faction and take home a personalized Star Trek-themed card. Friday evening will feature a special invite-only event for the Star Trek Fleet Command community. Located at The Sinclair on G Street (643 G St, San Diego, CA 92101). This is not affiliated with Comic-Con. Open Friday, July 24 through Sunday, July 26.

Black Myth: Wukong Global Concert LA Review: Epic Music, Loot Swag, and a Surprise Sequel Teaser

2026/07/15

Jerry Paxton

News, Geek News, Misc Review, Reviews

Can you believe it has already been two years since we first got our hands on this game? I still remember sitting at my desk, looking at the very first pre-alpha trailers. Honestly, I was skeptical. We all were, right? It looked too good to be true. The combat was incredibly smooth, and the boss designs were wild. I thought it was just a fancy tech demo. But Game Science proved us all wrong. They gave us a massive, gorgeous hit that sold over thirty million copies. And now, they are taking those epic tunes on a global tour.

I was lucky enough to snag a press seat at the North American premiere at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on July 7, 2026. Let me tell you, it was a night I won’t forget anytime soon.

The Real-Life Loot Box Swag Struggle

Before the music even started, the gamer instincts kicked in. When you bought your ticket, your seat tier decided what kind of loot you got at the door. There was no regular merch store inside. You couldn’t just walk up and buy a CD or a shirt. Everything was tied to your seat, which was a bit of a double-edged sword.

Here is the breakdown of the swag tiers:

Standard ($86 – $120): Got you a cool commemorative ticket stub, a portrait pin mystery bag, and a white brass ring mystery bag.
Deluxe ($128 – $149): Added a “Ma-Ma-Hu-Hu” t-shirt mystery bag.
Premium ($164.78 – $180): Included all of the above plus a sweet 1/12 scale collectible figure mystery bag.

Here is the thing, though. Ticketmaster did a terrible job explaining this when tickets went on sale. Lots of fans on Reddit were complaining because they bought mid-tier seats and had no idea they missed out on the premium figure bags.

And because the bags were random, the lobby turned into a chaotic trade market. I saw guys frantically trying to swap a Yin Tiger shirt for a Ma Tianba horse shirt because the sizes were random. It felt just like trading item drops in an MMO lobby!

A Beautiful Clash of East and West

Once we got past the lobby trading and sat down in the 7,100-seat theater, the real magic began. The atmosphere was electric. I was sitting next to other creators, developers, and tons of hardcore fans who knew every single boss pattern by heart.

The performance was driven by the Hollywood Film Orchestra, giving the tracks that massive, cinematic Western weight. But the real stars were the Chinese folk musicians sitting right at the front. The sound of the Guzheng zither and the percussive attack of the Pipa lute cut through the heavy brass beautifully.

And oh my god, the Dizi flute soloist! She was so happy and animated while playing. She was practically jumping on stage with her flute, and you could feel that passion radiating through the entire room.

Behind the players, a giant screen flashed gameplay clips, cinematic cutscenes, and those gorgeous animated shorts that play between chapters. Watching the claymation scene from Chapter 2 on a massive screen while the live strings swelled? Yeah, I got instant goosebumps.

The Headless Monk and a Family Legacy

Speaking of Chapter 2, we have to talk about the absolute highlight of the night. You all remember the Headless Monk who sings the Shaanxi storytelling songs while plucking his three-string Sanxian lute? He is a fan favorite for a reason.

The crowd went absolutely wild when the stage lights turned yellow for his segment. But then, a video popped up on the big screen. It was Xiong Zhuying, the original singer and composer behind the character. He explained that due to some annoying US travel visa issues, he couldn’t make it to Los Angeles. The crowd let out a collective sigh.

But then he smiled and introduced his son, who was standing on stage in his place.

The entire theater erupted with so much love! The younger Xiong raised his Sanxian, the orchestra swelled, and he absolutely crushed the performance. Honestly, it felt like the Headless Monk himself was right there in the room with us. It was a beautiful, passing-of-the-torch moment that felt incredibly raw and real.

Spooky Encores and Spilling the Tea

The main show took us chronologically through seventeen tracks, tracing our physical journey through the game. But Game Science didn’t stop there. They treated us to two incredible encores.

First, they played “Where Lies the Path Ahead?”, which is a modern take on the ending song from the classic 1986 TV show. If you have Chinese parents, they probably watched that show a million times. It was a beautiful nod to the roots of the legend.

But then came the real surprise. They played the teaser theme for the upcoming sequel, Black Myth: Zhong Kui!

We got our first glimpse of this sequel back at Gamescom in August 2025, where they revealed we would be playing as the “ghost-catching god.” Since Zhong Kui isn’t as well-known in the West as Sun Wukong, playing his dark, eerie theme live was a brilliant move. The music was heavy, creepy, and full of traditional chanting. It made me want to skip ahead in time just to play it.

The Verdict: You Need to Go

By the time the final notes of the main menu theme faded, the entire theater was on its feet for a massive standing ovation. It was a loud, beautiful celebration of gaming culture.

Honestly, the concert had such a massive impact on me that I went home, turned on my PC, and redownloaded the game the very next day. I just had to jump back into New Game Plus to hear those songs while fighting the Tiger Vanguard again.

Sure, the marketing for the LA show was almost non-existent, seriously, why did they barely advertise this and the swag collection was a bit of a mess. But the music itself was flawless. If the tour is heading to your city next, do yourself a favor and grab a ticket. Just make sure you double-check your seat tier if you want that sweet collectible figure!

Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2 Takes Over San Diego Comic-Con

2026/07/14

Jerry Paxton

News, Geek News, SDCC, Windows PC News

Today, Daybreak Game Company, a worldwide leader in massively multiplayer online games and emergent gameplay, and Cold Iron Studios, the San Jose-based game studio comprised of veteran action and shooter developers, revealed their San Diego Comic-Con presence for Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2. The next evolution of the co-op survival shooter that drops squads of Colonial Marines into the heart of the Xenomorph nightmare, Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2 comes to SDCC with a behind-the-scenes panel, featuring never-before-seen art, music reveals, and collectible posters.

Saturday, July 25

Crafting the Art & Sound of the Next Aliens: Fireteam Elite – 5:15PM – 6:15PM, Room: 6BCF

● Austin Wintory (award-winning video game music composer), Nicholas Stohlman (art director), Michelle Vargas (senior environment artist), and Derrick Reyes (audio director) provide an exclusive look at never-before-seen concept art, environment design, and original music tracks from the upcoming Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2, along with insights into how these elements shape player experience. A Q&A session moderated by Jake Kriegman (narrative designer) will follow, giving fans a chance to connect directly with the creators behind the next evolution of Aliens.

SDCC Giveaways

Attendees can pick up an exclusive AFE2 poster, while supplies last.

Fangoria Unveils SDCC First in Fright Panel

2026/07/14

Jerry Paxton

Halloween, Geek News, Movie News, News, SDCC

With voting for the 2026 FANGORIA Chainsaw Awards closing tomorrow, Wednesday, July 15, at 11:59 PM PT, horror fans have one final opportunity to cast their ballots at fangoria.com/vote.

Then, FANGORIA is heading straight to Comic-Con International in San Diego to break down the categories and reveal what’s next. On Friday, July 24, from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM in Room 23ABC, the panel First in Fright with FANGORIA will take fans behind the scenes of the FANGOIRA Chainsaw Awards with special guests and exclusive intel, before the fan-voted awards broadcast on Shudder this October.

Attendees can expect:

Special guest Devon Sawa (Final Destination, Heart Eyes, Shudder’s Hell Motel: Murder at Red Mountain) and more surprise appearances.
Major, room-only announcements and sneak peeks.
A live audience Q&A with the FANGORIA team and special guests.

First in Fright with FANGORIA

Friday, July 24, 2026
8:00–9:00 PM
San Diego Convention Center – Upper Level, Room 23ABC

Since 1979, FANGORIA has been the definitive blood-spattered bible of horror, chronicling the genre across print, film, television, and digital media. Join the FANGORIA team and special guest Devon Sawa for a trip through the brand’s house of horrors, featuring exclusive sneak peeks, major announcements, and surprises surrounding the 2026 FANGORIA Chainsaw Awards, streaming exclusively on Shudder on Sunday, October 25.

Panelists: Sean Abley (Moderator), Devon Sawa, Angel Melanson (FANGORIA Digital Editor), Michael Varrati (FANGORIA Chainsaw Awards Writer & Director), Kimberly Leszak (FANGORIA Community & Content Manager), and more.

Image Comics Unveils SDCC 2026 Lineup

2026/07/14

Jerry Paxton

News, Book News, Comics News, Geek News, SDCC

Image Comics is pleased to return to San Diego this year for Comic-Con on Wednesday, July 22 through Sunday, July 26 at booth #1915.

Please note: updates to the schedule may appear online during the show. Please refer to www.imagecomics.com for the most up-to-date information.

LIMITED* MERCHANDISE, ASHCANS & CONVENTION VARIANTS SOLD AT THE IMAGE BOOTH (#1915):
*Quantities will be limited by customer and per day on a first-come, first-served basis. Please ask at the Image booth about availability.

Hammerfist #1 ashcan – $10 +tax
Crowbound #1 ashcan – $10 +tax
The Karman Blade #1 ashcan – $10 +tax
The Last Driver #1 ashcan – $10 +tax
Chainkata #1 ashcan – $20 +tax
D’Orc #1, third printing SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $20 +tax
White Sky #1, third printing SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $10 +tax
Red Roots #1 SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $10 +tax
If Destruction Be Our Lot #1 SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $10 +tax
M1: Monster Racing League #1 SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $20 +tax
Odin #1 SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $20 +tax
Youngblood #100 SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $20 +tax
Tigress Island #1, fourth printing SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $20 +tax
Do A Powerbomb Black and White #1 SDCC 2026 Exclusive – $20 +tax
Image Comics branded pint glasses – $25 +tax
Image Comics branded hats – $25 +tax
Image Comics branded enamel pins – $10 +tax
Image Comics branded notebooks – $5 +tax
Image Comics branded mugs – $25 +tax
Image Comics branded shirts – $25 +tax
Image Comics branded totebags – $10 +tax

IMAGE COMICS SDCC PANELS:

THURSDAY, JULY 23

11:30AM – 12:30PM Image Comics: Comics Characters Fans Will Love or Hate—or Love to Hate!
Room: 24ABC
Join Matthew Rosenberg (IF DESTRUCTION BE OUR LOT), Patrick Kindlon (TIGRESS ISLAND), John Layman (CHEW), Rob Guillory (CHEW), Tony Fleecs (FERAL) and Dustin Nguyen (CROWBOUND) for an in-depth discussion of character building that leaps from the page and the secret behind what makes for loveable or unlikable characters for readers.
Moderator: Jim Viscardi, VP of Business Development at Image Comics.

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Robert Kirkman Live!
Room: 6BCF
The biggest Robert Kirkman panel yet. From Invincible to the newest superhero series Terminal, to Void Rivals and an expanding vision for Transformers in Skybound and Hasbro’s Energon Universe, Robert Kirkman pulls back the curtain on it all. Behind-the-scenes stories, exclusive reveals, and surprises are part of the program.

FRIDAY, JULY 24

12:00PM – 1:00PM Image Comics: Artists Unleashed
Room: 25ABC
Join us for an in-depth conversation with master storytellers Daniel Warren Johnson (CHAINKATA, DO A POWERBOMB), Skottie Young (I HATE FAIRYLAND, TWIG), Ian Bertram (THE KARMAN BLADE, LITTLE BIRD), Caspar Wijngaard (THE POWER FANTASY, HOME SICK PILOTS), Sanford Greene (BITTER ROOT) and Sean Gordon Murphy (THE LAST DRIVER) as they share details about their work as well as their creative process and influences.
Moderator: Jim Viscardi, VP of Business Development at Image Comics.

1:00PM – 2:00PM Breaking Ground: Building New Worlds with Caspar Wijngaard
Room: 25ABC
Join Caspar Wijngaard (THE POWER FANTASY, HOME SICK PILOTS) and Jim Viscardi for an in-depth overview of Wijngaard’s storied career as one of Image Comics’ most innovative creators. In this one-on-one interview and Q&A session, they discuss the process of crafting original worlds for creator owned comics and preview the much anticipated return of The Power Fantasy!
Moderator: Jim Viscardi, VP of Business Development at Image Comics.

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM Frightening and Fantastic Worlds of James Tynion IV
Room: 25ABC
From Something Is Killing the Children to EXQUISITE CORPSES and beyond, multi-award-winning writer James Tynion IV discusses the ever-expanding worlds of Tiny Onion with collaborators Martin Simmonds (THE DEPARTMENT OF TRUTH), Werther Dell’Edera (Something Is Killing the Children), and Michael Walsh (EXQUISITE CORPSES).
Moderator: Sami DeMonster, Tiny Onion community manager.

4:15 PM – 5:15 PM Kirkman, McFarlane, Liefeld, Silvestri, Stephenson: Image Comic Legends Together on One Stage
Ballroom 20
Join Image Comics founders and partners Todd McFarlane (SPAWN), Rob Liefeld (YOUNGBLOOD, BADROCK), Marc Silvestri (WITCHBLADE, THE DARKNESS), Robert Kirkman (INVINCIBLE, THE WALKING DEAD), and Eric Stephenson (NOWHERE MEN), for an unforgettable conversation about how they revolutionized the comic book industry. Hear untold stories from the creators who took the risks that sent shockwaves through the comic world, forever changing the landscape of the industry.

SATURDAY, JULY 25

10:00AM – 11:00AM Image Comics: Storytelling, Genre, and Crafting Unforgettable Comics
Room: 28DE
Join Geoff Johns (GEIGER), Jason Fabok (ROOK: EXODUS), Chris Condon (THAT TEXAS BLOOD), Wes Craig (KAYA) and Tyler Kirkham (FINAL BOSS) for a freewheeling conversation amongst some of the top talent in the comics industry as they discuss genre, storytelling, industry secrets, and tricks-of-the-trade.
Moderator: Jim Viscardi, VP of Business Development at Image Comics.

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Top Cow 2026 and Beyond
Room: 4
Top Cow legends Marc Silvestri (founder, CEO) and Matt Hawkins (president, COO) plus Top Cow creators including Stjepan Šejić and Linda Šejić (SUNSTONE), Simon Birks, Henry Barajas, and Marguerite Bennett (WITCHBLADE) discuss and present their upcoming projects. The panel explores the next several years at The Cow. Attendees will receive a free custom print with autograph lines for several creators who will be signing at the booth right after the panel.

12:30PM – 1:30PM Image Comics: The Future of Comics
Room: 6A
Join Doug Wagner (NARCO), Michael Walsh (EXQUISITE CORPSES), Tyler Boss (EXQUISITE CORPSES: RASCAL RANDY), Curt Pires (FIREBORN), and Jonathan Ball (THE EYE COLLECTOR) for an in-depth discussion of character building that leaps from the page and the secret behind what makes for loveable or unlikable characters for readers.
Moderator: Jim Viscardi, VP of Business Development at Image Comics.

3:30PM – 4:30PM Image Comics: The New Wave Of Comics Storytelling, Character & Talent
Room: 24ABC
Join Franklin Jonas (FIREBORN), Maytal Zchut (SISTERHOOD: A HYDE STREET STORY), Lamont Magee (SURPRISE ANNOUNCEMENT), Brett Bean (D’ORC), and GMB Chomichuk (THE EYE COLLECTOR) as they talk about what it’s like bringing brand new comics to market and creating comics that fans fall in love with.
Moderator: Jim Viscardi Room, VP of Business Development at Image Comics.

4:30 PM – 5:30 PM Transformers and G.I. Joe: The Energon Universe is Unstoppable
Room 5AB
The next phase of the Energon Universe is here. Robert Kirkman (VOID RIVALS, TRANSFORMERS), Joshua Williamson (G.I. JOE), Conor Hughes (VOID RIVALS), and Sean Mackiewicz, SVP/Publisher at Skybound, reveal what is next for Skybound and Hasbro’s shared universe featuring TRANSFORMERS, G.I. JOE, VOID RIVALS, and M.A.S.K.
Moderator: Arune Singh, VP, Brand at Skybound.

SIGNINGS AT THE IMAGE COMICS BOOTH (#1915):
All signings will be capped for the purposes of line control with preference given to attendee badge-types only where time constraints apply. All items presented for signing are subject to review and denial by staff.

THURSDAY, JULY 23:

9 AM – 10 AM
Todd McFarlane

10 AM – 11 AM
Brett Bean
Skottie Young

11 AM – 12 PM
Tim Seeley
Jason Fabok & Geoff Johns

12 PM – 1 PM
Zander Cannon
Nick Dragotta

1 PM – 2 PM
Carlo Barberi

1:30 PM – 3 PM
James Tynion IV

2 PM – 3 PM
William Harms

3 PM – 4 PM
Sean Gordon Murphy
Michael Walsh
Todd McFarlane

4 PM – 5 PM
Kyle Higgins
Jason Fabok, Geoff Johns, Lamont Magee & Maytal Zchut

5 PM – 6 PM
Patrick Kindlon

FRIDAY, JULY 24:

10 AM – 11 AM
Skottie Young
Thomas Healy

11 AM – 12 PM
Zander Cannon
Jason Fabok & Geoff Johns

12 PM – 1 PM
Patrick Kindlon
Jason Fabok & Geoff Johns

1 PM – 2 PM
Eric Zawadzki & Deniz Camp
Matthew Rosenberg & Tyler Boss

2 PM – 3 PM
Brett Bean
Christian Ward

2:30 PM – 3 PM
Todd McFarlane

3 PM – 4 PM
Daniel Warren Johnson

4 PM – 5 PM
Jeff Lemire, Dustin Nguyen
Jason Fabok, Geoff Johns, Lamont Magee, Danni Miki & Maytal Zchut

5 PM – 6 PM
Ian Bertram
Caspar Wijngaard

SATURDAY, JULY 25:

10 AM – 11 AM
Tyler Boss
Eric Zawadzki, Deniz Camp

11:30 AM – 12 PM
Wes Craig

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Jason Fabok & Geoff Johns

12 PM – 1 PM
Sean Gordon Murphy
Tim Seeley, Tony Fleecs
Jimmy Palmiotti

1 PM – 2 PM
Robert Windom, Lily Windom, Jae Lee
Ian Bertram

2 PM – 3 PM
Daniel Warren Johnson

3 PM – 4 PM
Caspar Wijngaard
William Harms
Todd McFarlane

4 PM – 5 PM
John Layman

5 PM – 6 PM
Jason Fabok, Geoff Johns, Lamont Magee
Jonathan Glapion

SUNDAY, JULY 26

10 AM – 11 AM
Skottie Young

11 AM – 12 PM
Sean Gordon Murphy
Jae Lee

12 PM – 1 PM
Matthew Rosenberg
Kelly Sue DeConnick

1 PM – 2 PM
Caspar Wijngaard
Christian Ward

2 PM – 3 PM
Kyle Higgins
Brett Bean

Final Boss The Video Game Teaser Trailer

2026/07/14

Jerry Paxton

News, Geek News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

In advance of Comic-Con International 2026 in San Diego, Bit Bot and renowned comic writer and artist Tyler Kirkham are partnering to develop an official video game adaptation of Final Boss, Kirkham’s hit comic book series. Published by Image Comics, Final Boss quickly emerged as one of comics’ breakout successes, with its debut issue selling out at the distributor level and earning an immediate second printing following strong demand from retailers and readers. Now as the ongoing series continues to take the comic reading world by storm, Kirkham and Bit Bot will bring the hard-hitting, non-stop comic-inspired action to gamers around the world with a one-of-a-kind new video game, available to wishlist on Steam today.

Created, written, and illustrated by Tyler Kirkham — known for his work on Amazing Spider-Man, Green Lantern, X-Men, and numerous other bestselling titles — Final Boss follows Tommy Brazen, an ex-street brawler and powered-up mercenary who discovers that the secrets of his past are connected to something far larger than he ever imagined. The series blends the energy of classic arcade beat ’em ups, fighting games, and action entertainment into a high-octane comic experience. Now, Bit Bot is bringing that vision to life in interactive form. Developed by Bit Bot alongside its in-house game studio, Mecanimal Games, Final Boss is a faithful adaptation of the comic series, with Kirkham serving as a key creative collaborator throughout development. Leading the project alongside Kirkham are Bit Bot Creative Director Frank O’Connor, the former Franchise Creative Director behind Halo and Perfect Dark, and Bit Bot co-owner Joshua Viola. The game’s original score will be composed by acclaimed musician and Bit Bot co-owner Celldweller.

“Final Boss was born from my love of classic arcade games, fighting games, action movies, and comics,” said Tyler Kirkham. “Working directly with Bit Bot allows us to translate that DNA into a video game that feels authentic to the comic while expanding the world in exciting new ways.”

“At its heart, Final Boss is about escalation,” said Frank O’Connor. “The gameplay mirrors the structure of the story. What begins as a cooperative street fight gradually narrows into a personal showdown. It’s a format that lets us combine two beloved genres while remaining completely faithful to the spirit of the comic.”

Designed for one to four players in local couch co-op, Final Boss begins as a pixel-art side-scrolling brawler inspired by arcade classics. Players battle through waves of enemies and progress through increasingly dangerous stages before each level culminates in a dramatic transformation. Animated comic-book panels introduce the boss, the action tightens, and the game shifts into a focused one-on-one 3D fighting experience inspired by modern fighting games.

“One of the things that immediately excited us about Final Boss is that the comic already feels like a video game,” added Joshua Viola. “Tyler created a world that celebrates arcade brawlers, fighting games, comics, and action cinema. Rather than simply adapting those ideas, we’re building a game around them.”

Mattel Unveils SDCC 2026 Collectibles and Activities

2026/07/14

Jerry Paxton

News, Geek News, SDCC

Mattel, a leading global play and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world, is gearing up for another exciting return to Comic-Con International in San Diego, bringing an all-new lineup of fan-favorite collectibles to the show floor. From July 22 onward, attendees can explore exclusive drops from iconic brands like Hot Wheels®, Masters of the Universe®, Monster High®, WWE®, Jurassic World®, and more. Collectors can get their hands on these San Diego Comic-Con items, available only while supplies last, at the Mattel booth (#2945) and on Mattel Creations.

All weekend long, fans can immerse themselves in the world of their favorite Mattel brands. Think high-energy WWE, Jurassic World, and Masters of the Universe panels, a Monster High autograph signing, WWE meet & greet, contests, hands-on activities, and more. Mattel’s latest product showcase is designed to celebrate fandom at every level, with something special for collectors and casual fans alike.

Check out the full lineup of collectibles and events below.

Mattel Creations SDCC 2026 Product Lineup

WWE X CYNDI LAUPER

WWE Elite 3-Pack – Cyndi Lauper, Roddy Piper, Captain Lou Albano | SRP: $80

FANDOM IN THE FAST LANE

Hot Wheels® KPop Demon Hunters Porsche 911 GT3 R | SRP: $25
Hot Wheels® Stranger Things 10th Anniversary Hawkins Van | SRP: $40
Hot Wheels® Top Gun 40th Anniversary Set | SRP: $35

POP CULTURE POWER PICKS

Jurassic World Hammond Collection 25th Anniversary Collector Edition Velociraptor | SRP: $25
KPop Demon Hunters Ramyeon 3 Pack | SRP: $50
Masters Of The Universe® Gym Bro Skeletor® Action Figure | SRP: $50
Monster High® Skullector™ Lagoona Blue™ Doll | SRP: $80

To unlock the full Mattel Creations’ fandom 2026 San Diego Comic-Con product lineup, please visit Mattelcreations.com.

Mattel’s SDCC Events & Activities

Visit booth #2945 for the latest from Mattel’s iconic brands, including photo opportunities, panels, and signings (see below).

Wednesday, July 22, 2026

6:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Preview Night

Thursday, July 23, 2026

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Mattel Brick Shop Design Panel Join Mattel Brick Shop for a special design panel featuring an exclusive look at what’s next, including a reveal Halo fans won’t want to miss. Hear from one of the designers as they share insights into the building set, from the design process to the faithful recreation of details.
11:15 PM – 12:15 PM: WWE Elite Squad Reveal Panel – Location: Room 6A
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Monster High Cosplay Meet Up
- Calling all Monster High fans – dress up and show up for a creepy-cool cosplay event! Meet fellow fans, join the group photo, and strike a pose for photos taken by our professional photographer. Plus, a few eek-stravagant cosplayers will take home prizes.
1:15 PM – 2:15 PM: WWE Superstar Meet and Greet
- Visit the Mattel booth for a photo meet and greet with WWE Superstars! SDCC WWE collector posters and pins will be available at the booth during the event. Limited quantities available.
3:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Monster High Ghouls Rule Lagoona Design Panel
- Join the Monster High Team behind this year’s SDCC Skullector doll for a special panel discussing the making of our screamium Ghouls Rule Lagoona Blue.

Friday, July 24, 2026

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Eek-sclusive Reveal of the Upcoming Monster High Skullector Dolls!
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Jurassic Design Panel
- Join the Mattel and Universal Design Teams for an in-depth look at our latest product and upcoming reveals. Hosted by Trisha Hershberger, get ready for an in-depth discussion with designers Raf Bencosme, Chloe Mun, Zoe Bjerke, and Mike Vazquez as they dig into the evolution of dinosaur sculpts, decos, and features, along with product reveals, giveaways, and more! Featuring special guest Britt Shotts from Universal with some exciting updates for the Jurassic World Franchise!
11:45 AM – 12:45 PM: Nerd Stuff and Sword Things: Storytelling in the Masters of the Universe Film World – Location: Room 6A
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Monster High Spooktacular Signing: Meet The Ghouls Behind The Design – Location: Salis Pavilion
- Join the Monster High Team behind this year’s SDCC Lagoona doll for a special signing event! They’ll be signing limited-edition posters from 12–2 PM in The Sails Pavilion. Don’t miss your chance—poster quantities are limited.
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Jurassic World – Aquilops Handler Photoshoot
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Jurassic World – Aquilops Handler Photoshoot

Saturday, July 25, 2026

10:45 AM – 11:30 AM: Masters of the Universe Skeletor Cosplay Pose-Off
- Join Masters of the Universe for a Skeletor Cosplay Pose-Off to see who has the best Skeletor pose. Skeletors of all ages, sizes, and eras welcome!
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Jurassic World – Aquilops Handler Photoshoot
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: DC – Design Panel
- Join the Mattel Design & Packaging Teams as they give you an in-depth look at our 2026 Premier Series. Hosted by Trisha Hershberger, get ready for an in-depth discussion with Mattel Designers as they walk us through product concepts and features, with product reveals, giveaways, and more!
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: AppleTV x Matchbox Movie Panel
- Inspired by the Mattel toy line, Matchbox: The Movie is a Skydance co-production starring John Cena, Jessica Biel, Sam Richardson, Teyonah Parris, and Arturo Castro. The film follows a group of childhood friends whose lives are turned upside down when their long-absent former leader, an undercover CIA agent, returns and pulls them into a high-stakes international mission to save the world. Directed by Sam Hargrave, the film hits Apple TV+ on October 9.
3:30 PM – 4:30 PM: Mattel x KPop Demon Hunters Charm Bar
- Create your own bracelet with different charms to attach to Mattel’s all-new mini collectible keychains! Clip and carry the world of Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters with personality-packed mini collectible keychains! There are 13 mini figures to collect – with a rare friend hidden among them! Each includes a themed charm accessory and keychain clip.

Sunday, July 26, 2026

ALL DAY: Hot Wheels Track Stage Takeover
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Jurassic World – Aquilops Handler Photoshoot

Conjurers Release Date Announcement Trailer

2026/07/14

Jerry Paxton

News, Geek News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News

The Zodiac already has a ruler, and it isn’t you. Solo developer Carl Treadway and publisher indie.io announce that Conjurers, a turn-based tactics game where every victory means seizing a rival mage’s constellation and folding their star-born army into your own, launches July 28, 2026 on Steam with a 20% launch discount.

Eight rival mages rule the Zodiac, each commanding a constellation of creatures bound to them. Defeating one doesn’t just clear a path — it strips them of their stars entirely, folding those creatures into your own growing deck. Win enough battles and your army becomes something no single mage was ever meant to command: a hybrid force drawn from across the full Zodiac, built piece by piece from every opponent you’ve dismantled. The goal is singular and unrelenting: unite the Zodiac and become powerful enough to unseat the Immortal Aquarius.

Combat runs deeper than it first appears. Terrain isn’t a backdrop; it’s leverage. High ground, Mana Towers and battlefield hazards shift the math on every move, and creatures perform differently depending on the land beneath them. Players build a deck of 24 cards — drawing from 150 creature cards, weapons, abilities, and spells — and manage Mana carefully across each turn, choosing whether to activate creatures or play cards, never quite able to do everything at once. Each of the eight Conjurers fights differently, and so does every battlefield they occupy.

Key Features:

Conquer the Zodiac: Defeat rival Conjurers to claim their creature types permanently. Your creatures persist across battles, gaining experience and leveling up as they fight — all leading to one final confrontation with the Immortal Aquarius.
Terrain-Driven Tactics: High ground, Mana Towers, and environmental hazards shape every battle — positioning is as important as the cards in your hand.
60 Creatures. Infinite Hybrids: Combine any two Zodiac creature types to forge powerful hybrids. A Hoofed-Human becomes a Minotaur, a Polypod-Prowler forms a Manticore, a Winged-Lizard gives rise to a Dragon, with many more combinations waiting to be discovered.

Aquarius has ruled long enough. Conjurers launches July 28, 2026, on Steam for $11.99 with a 20% launch discount. Play the free demo now and be ready when the Zodiac opens for conquest.

The Outlast Trials – Project Boneyard Out Now

2026/07/14

Jerry Paxton

News, Geek News, PlayStation 5 News, Trailers / Videos, Windows PC News, Xbox Series X News

Turn yourself in and suffer rehabilitation. Today, Red Barrels proudly opens the gates to Project Boneyard, Season 7 of The Outlast Trials, available now on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation. Sergeant Leland Coyle is back, the Prison Farm is open for intake, and Murkoff would like to remind all Reagents that freedom is not a right. It is a reward.

Starting today, this free update is available for all current The Outlast Trials owners. In Project Boneyard, Reagents are thrown into Murkoff’s latest correctional nightmare, where authority is currency, punishment is policy, and riot makes way for revenge.

Sergeant Leland Coyle, returns in a prominent new role for the season’s new Trial, Locksock the Warden. Sporting a brand new hat and an old appetite for control, Coyle is ready to inject more of his “cruel and unusual” style into the prison population.

Limited Run Games Unveils San Diego Comic Con 2026 Lineup

2026/07/14

Jerry Paxton

News, Geek News, Nintendo Switch 2, SDCC

Limited Run Games, a premium publisher of physical video games, announced today plans for San Diego Comic-Con, taking place between July 23-26 at the San Diego Convention Center. Bringing the summer heat in style, Limited Run Games arrives with exclusive physical editions, friendly faces, and quite the time to be had!

Located at Booth 536, Limited Run Games returns and plans to make this a Comic-Con to remember. Sporting a must-see booth for fans and collectors, armed with the best physical video games, incredible show exclusives, and they can’t wait to see you!.

Retro gaming fans who relish the old-school arcade classics, swoon at stouthearted superheroes and adore 70s blockbuster thrillers, are advised to hold on to their hats, because on sale at the show there will be exclusive cover variants of the following games:

MARVEL MaXimum Collection – SDCC 2026 Exclusive – with redesigned artwork created exclusively for this event.
CAPCOM Arcade Stadium Vol. 1 – SDCC 2026 Exclusive with Foil Cover – featuring a gleaming, metallic cover that can’t be found anywhere else.
JAWS: Retro Edition – SDCC 2026 Exclusive – with fresh new cover art only on sale at San Diego Comic Con.

As well as these three specials, keen collectors will also be able to find physical editions of:

Fighting Force Collection (with Special Cover!)
Nickelodeon Splat Pack
Scott Pilgrim EX
Hi-Fi Rush
Dungeons & Dragons Neverwinter Nights 2: Enhanced Edition
High on Life 2
Mortal Kombat
Castlevania Dominus Collection
DOOM + DOOM II
GEX Trilogy
Jedi Power Battles
Star Ocean
Yakuza Kiwami
Ren & Stimpy: Happy Happy Joy Joy
Shantae Advance Risky Revolution
Earthion

As lovers of physical media, Limited Run Games continues to offer the collector community the games they love in a format that’s theirs forever. In addition to the show’s exclusive games, Limited Run Games will also be joined by writer and creator Adam Tierney. Adam will be signing a new single issue comic book of River City Girls!

Special Guest Adam Tierney, Game Director from WayForward and creator of the iconic River City Girls, will be making an appearance at the booth on July 25 between 12:30 PDT and 1:30 PDT, and plans to be poised and ready for signing an exclusive River City Girls comic – don’t miss out on this opportunity to own a piece of gaming history inscribed with something meaningful for all time!

Last but absolutely not least, key team members from Limited Run Games will be hanging out at the booth throughout the show, so if you’d like to chat all things gaming, physical and collector, simply head over and jump on in! They’ll be happy to give you a run-down of everything that is happening both at the show and maybe even share a few secrets on what’s cooking at LRG HQ!