Survival may be a familiar challenge in games, but 11 bit studios’ upcoming ambitious sci-fi title, The Alters, takes it to an intensely personal level. In The Alters, survival isn’t just about enduring the unknown—it’s about confronting yourself in the most personal way possible; face-to-face. After all, what could be more personal than navigating life-or-death decisions alongside alternate versions of who you could have been?
Jan Dolski is an ordinary worker—now the sole survivor of a crash landing on a distant, unforgiving planet. Stranded and alone, he faces an impossible task: operating a massive mobile base designed for an entire crew all while escaping the relentless, burning sun. His only chance lies in the Alters—alternate versions of himself, shaped by pivotal choices he never made, each with different skills, different memories, and different lives.
As revealed in the latest trailer, which subtly plays with the notion of breaking the fourth wall, working with these different Jans is anything but straightforward. They are not just copies. Some took different paths and look upon the first Jan’s choices with pity. Others succeeded where he failed, living lives he never had the chance to—and now, maybe, they don’t even believe he has the guts to be a leader.
But none of that matters when survival is at stake. Like it or not, they must find a way to work together—one way or another.
The Alters blends a meaningful, emergent narrative—where choices truly matter—with survival gameplay, exploration, resource gathering, and base-building and management mechanics. Developed by 11 bit studios’ in-house team, which includes members behind the bestselling This War of Mine, the game is set to launch in 2025 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. It will also be available on Xbox and PC Game Pass.
The Alters will be released in 2025 for PCs and consoles. It will also launch on PC Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass.
As part of IGN Fan Fest, solo developer Vincent Adinolfi and horror publisher DreadXP have revealed that Heartworm, the retro survival horror, will be coming to PC this spring. Fans of classics like Resident Evil and Silent Hill and those new to the genre will be able to enjoy mechanics, controls, and graphics inspired by games from the late 90s, with the option to turn some effects off for a slightly more modern experience. Check out the new trailer to get a look at some of the gameplay, including the camera-based combat, exploration, and puzzles.
Grief-stricken over the death of her beloved grandfather, Sam falls down an internet rabbit hole, driven by the hope of reconnecting with him. Following a lead from a mysterious forum, she ventures to a supposedly supernatural house in the mountains, desperate to make contact with the other side.
Snowfall Games has unveiled the first full trailer for their upcoming multiplayer murder mystery game, It Was You as part of IGN Fan Fest 2025. Catch the first glimpse of this murder mystery-themed Halloween party, where 5-12 players will be given a role—detective or killer—and tools to manipulate, uncover, or plant evidence. Deduce the murderer or sow discord amongst your fellow party attendees when It Was You launches on Steam later this year.
Detectives have a range of tools at their disposal to uncover the truth—whether it’s using a magnifying glass to trace footprints, a blacklight to reveal hidden blood splatters, or even a lie detector to expose a suspect’s role. Meanwhile, killers rely on deception, using items like a spray bottle to erase their fingerprints or tape to plant someone else’s. They can even drag a body into a closet, hoping it remains undiscovered. At any moment, players can call for a discussion and vote to exile whoever they believe is guilty.
Acoustic proximity voice chat introduces lifelike reverberation and occlusion, causing voices to echo in the long corridors of the Tylock Estate. When a player enters a room and shuts the door, conversations from outside are naturally muffled, adding an unprecedented degree of immersion. To execute the perfect murder, killers must ensure the door is closed and no one is around —or risk detectives overhearing the victim’s scream echoing through the halls.
Every party feels alive with the addition of non-player guests. Killers must eliminate these NPCs first, creating a buffer that allows real players to investigate and participate in the narrative of every game before they risk becoming victims.
Elgato, a CORSAIR brand, today announced it’s sponsoring the OBS Project, developers of Open Broadcaster Software (OBS). With the sponsorship, Elgato will help fund new innovations on the free, open-source platform for streamers and video creators. Additionally, Elgato revealed a brand-new plugin, making it easier for users to add and share OBS Studio setups.
“This partnership builds on a long history of collaboration,” says Taylor Ward, Director of Ecosystem at Elgato. “Elgato tools and OBS Studio have always gone hand in hand—now we’re taking that connection to the next level. Together, we’re excited to bring creators new ways to enhance and streamline their workflows.”
The OBS Project is largely community-driven and relies on sponsors for the resources needed to maintain and improve its software. Elgato’s Diamond-tier sponsorship delivers immediate funding to support key areas. These include developing new features, such as an expanded plugin infrastructure. It also helps cover operational costs, from fixing bugs to hiring developers.
Elgato is committed to keeping OBS free and available to anyone. It joins industry leaders like NVIDIA, AMD, and YouTube in supporting the project’s continued success.
The plugin
Luckily, streamers don’t have to wait—new tools are already here. Elgato’s OBS Studio plugin, Marketplace Connect, links the two ecosystems for the first time, making workflows faster and easier than ever.
Returning visitors to Marketplace, Elgato’s digital storefront, will spot a new, dedicated OBS section. Here creators can browse full broadcasting setups, called “scene collections,” and install them directly to OBS Studio. This process used to take hours of manual setup and troubleshooting—now everything’s ready in just a few clicks.
Even more, creators can now easily share their own OBS setups too. The export tool automatically gathers files and settings, bundling scenes in a few quick steps. It’s then ready to be shared with other creators on Marketplace.
Elgato isn’t stopping here—future updates will bring support for widgets, Stream Deck, and more powerful integrations.
The legacy
For over a decade, Elgato and OBS have helped shape the creator landscape, making easy-to-use tools that work together. Elgato capture cards were among the first with native OBS Studio support, giving gamers a more seamless way to share. When Stream Deck debuted in 2017, it came with built-in OBS integration, allowing streamers to manage scenes and sources with a press. Later, Wave Link streamlined creator audio, delivering pro control and a cleaner OBS Studio interface.
Today, millions of creators run OBS Studio alongside Elgato tools to enhance their production quality. It’s a partnership that has made broadcasting more accessible than ever. And after today’s announcement, it’s clear there’s much more to come.
Gaijin Entertainment is pleased to announce that the demo version of Cubic Odyssey, an open-world adventure, is participating in the Steam Next Fest that is being held from February 24th (18:00 GMT) until March 3rd (18:00 GMT). The demo is already available to download on the Cubic Odyssey Steam page, and players are welcome to add the game to their Steam wishlist.
The demo is single player only and consists of one planet that players are free to explore while meeting the locals, fighting enemies, mining ore, building bases and fixing their spaceship. It would take a few hours for the players to get through the basic quest and get introduced to the game’s mechanics. The demo is dedicated to the Miner class who has the perfect set of skills for the first foray into the Cubic Odyssey universe.
Cubic Odyssey is an indie game developed by Atypical Software and published by Gaijin Entertainment. It will become available for purchase on Steam, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S in 2025. The exact price and the release date will be announced later.
About Cubic Odyssey
Cubic Odyssey is an open-world adventure where a player explores vibrant planets, crafts tools, builds vehicles, takes on diverse quests, and fights the Red Darkness as the epic story of saving the galaxy unfolds before them. The game features seamless ground, air and space traversal, as well as optional co-op mode.
Big Fan, a Devolver Digital publishing label, with developer Bithell Games and Disney Games, today announced the release date for its story driven adventure, TRON: Catalyst. The isometric, action-infused game will welcome you into its enthralling digital world when it launches June 17, 2025 on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch: https://www.bigfangames.com/games/tron-catalyst.
Today’s thrilling new launch date trailer features Exo, the highly resilient and resourceful program with the incredible ability to initiate time loops that is central to TRON: Catalyst’s captivating adventure. Exo must gain control over her mysterious abilities and uncover the unexplained ‘Glitch’ that threatens the Grid, all while evading the pursuit of Conn, a malevolent agent of Core.
Battle as Exo on-foot in agile combat and explore the Arq Grid on Light Cycle to complete missions, gaining crucial insights to help advance Exo’s quest. Using the Glitch’s time-rewinding abilities to learn from her mistakes, Exo will need to navigate warring factions to unlock new paths and uncover the secrets of the Arq Grid. TRON: Catalyst provides fans new adventures in the Grid offering more stories from the beloved TRON universe with more of the gripping, neon-accented action fans have come to know and love.
The Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless Kuromi Edition keyboard is a captivating blend of functionality and visual flair, catering to gamers and Kuromi enthusiasts alike. It takes the solid foundation of the Ornata V3 Tenkeyless and infuses it with a playful personality, making it a standout option for those seeking a unique and expressive typing experience. While the standard Ornata V3 Tenkeyless is a capable keyboard in its own right, the Kuromi Edition elevates the aesthetic appeal with its distinctive design elements.
The most striking feature is undoubtedly the Kuromi-themed keycaps. The black and purple color scheme, along with the scattered Kuromi icons, creates a visually engaging experience. The keycaps themselves are well-made, with a smooth and comfortable feel. The low-profile design promotes a natural typing posture, reducing strain during extended use. The mecha-membrane switches offer a unique typing experience, combining the tactile feedback of mechanical switches with the soft touch of membrane keyboards. This hybrid approach provides a satisfying “clicky” feel while maintaining a comfortable typing experience.
The keyboard’s tenkeyless form factor makes it ideal for users with limited desk space or those who prioritize portability. The compact design doesn’t compromise functionality, as it retains all the essential keys for gaming and everyday use. The inclusion of dedicated media keys adds to the convenience, allowing for quick access to volume control and playback functions. The magnetically attached wrist rest is a welcome addition, providing comfortable support during long typing sessions. The soft-touch material feels pleasant against the skin, and the magnetic attachment ensures a secure and stable connection.
The Razer Chroma RGB backlighting adds another layer of personalization. With customizable lighting effects and 8 distinct lighting zones, users can create a visually stunning setup that reflects their personal style. The integration with Razer Synapse software allows for further customization, enabling users to synchronize the lighting with other Razer peripherals. This feature enhances the overall gaming experience, immersing users in a world of vibrant colors and dynamic effects.
However, the Kuromi Edition’s price premium compared to the standard Ornata V3 Tenkeyless is a factor to consider. While the aesthetic enhancements are undeniable, the additional cost might deter some users. The value proposition depends on the individual’s priorities and the importance they place on the unique design elements.
In conclusion, the Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless Kuromi Edition is a well-rounded keyboard that successfully combines functionality, comfort, and visual appeal. It delivers a satisfying typing experience, thanks to its mecha-membrane switches and ergonomic design. The Kuromi-themed aesthetics add a playful touch, making it a standout option for fans of the character. While the price premium might be a concern for some, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a unique and expressive keyboard.
CRITICAL REFLEX and developer Mike Klubnika announced today during the ID@Xbox Showcase as part of IGN Fan Fest that Buckshot Roulette, the acclaimed horror-themed twist on Russian roulette, will arrive on Xbox Series X|S later this year, as well as on Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass. Watch a new trailer showcasing the deadly game of chance you can expect when you enter the nightclub…
Buckshot Roulette is Russian roulette with a 12-gauge shotgun. Dive into a gritty underworld nightclub. Face off against The Dealer or your friends. Strategically use items to better your odds. Brace yourself as you pull the trigger. Load the chamber, press your luck, double down. There’s no prize for second place.
Buckshot Roulette released to critical and popular acclaim on Steam in 2024, scoring an 85 on Metacritic and racking up nominations at The Indie Game Awards and The Horror Game Awards. The game has sold over four million units to date.
The Xbox debut of Buckshot Roulette will feature multiplayer for two to four players, added to the game in a free Steam update last year, as well as powerful new items that can change a round in a flash. It’s time to roll the dice with your life. Good luck.
Buckshot Roulette is available now on Steam for $2.99|£2.49|€2.99. For more information, follow CR Channel on Twitter and join the CR Channel Discord community for the latest news, engaging discussions and more.
Independent Developer Raccoon Logic have revealed self published sci-fi adventure Revenge of the Savage Planet, will launch on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and PC on 8th May, with the digital Cosmic Hoarder Edition granting 3 day early access from 5th May. Available day one with Xbox Game Pass, the satirical sequel brings back everything you loved from your first trip to deep space, but with more planets, gear, critters, laughs, some interstellar corporate conflict for good measure, and this time in third person.
Abandoned on an alien planet with no job and no plan by Alta Interglobal, your now former employer, you’ll need to utilize every tool in your arsenal as you attempt to return home. Thankfully, that arsenal is well stocked, allowing you to use gathered resources to craft the right tool for the job, from goo cannons and lassos to pistols and mag forks, all your exploration needs can be met… for the right price.
With not one but three editions on offer, rejoining the pioneer program has never been this easy. The editions available at launch will be:
$39.99 Super Standard Edition – Digital Only
Revenge of the Savage Planet
Cinco de Mayo Trash Panda (First Month Only)
Xbox – Available Day One with Game Pass
$49.99 Cosmic Hoarder Edition – Digital Only
Revenge of the Savage Planet
Cinco de Mayo Trash Panda (First Month Only)
3-Day Early Access
Shama Lama’s Influencer Accelerator Program (4 Missions)
Cinco de Mayo Trash Panda Suit
HR Enforcer Deluxe Suit
Gold Lamé Space Suit
Official Soundtrack and Artbook
Xbox – Cosmic Hoarder Edition Upgrade Available to Game Pass Members on May 5th
The Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT Kuromi Edition is a striking departure from the standard headset aesthetic, embracing a playful yet edgy design that caters to a specific audience. It’s a testament to Razer’s willingness to experiment, offering a product that prioritizes personality alongside functionality. This particular edition, inspired by the mischievous Kuromi from the Sanrio universe, takes the already whimsical Kraken Kitty V2 platform and infuses it with a darker, more sophisticated charm.
Upon unboxing, the immediate visual impact is undeniable. The matte black plastic construction exudes a sense of understated elegance, a stark contrast to the typically bright and pastel hues associated with “cute” peripherals. The deep purple ear cushions and headband lining provide a rich, contrasting accent, perfectly capturing Kuromi’s signature color palette. This isn’t merely a recoloring, however. Razer has paid meticulous attention to detail. The iconic cat ears, a hallmark of the Kraken Kitty line, have been reimagined as the pointed protrusions from Kuromi’s jester-like hat, adding a unique silhouette that sets this edition apart. The Chroma RGB lighting, customizable through Razer’s Synapse software, has been carefully tuned to reflect Kuromi’s aesthetic, offering a range of deep purples and subtle glows that complement the overall design.
Beyond its visual appeal, the Kraken Kitty V2 BT Kuromi Edition delivers a solid audio experience. The 40mm Razer TriForce drivers produce a clear and balanced sound profile, suitable for both gaming and multimedia consumption. While audiophiles might find the bass response slightly lacking, the overall clarity and detail are commendable. In games, the headset provides adequate spatial awareness, allowing for accurate sound localization. For casual listening, the sound is more than sufficient, offering a pleasant and immersive experience.
The integrated beamforming microphones, designed for clear voice communication, perform adequately in most environments. While they may not rival dedicated studio microphones, they effectively filter out background noise, ensuring that your voice comes through clearly during calls or online gameplay. The Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity provides a stable and reliable wireless connection, allowing for seamless switching between devices. The inclusion of a dedicated Gaming Mode further minimizes latency, providing a responsive experience for competitive gaming.
Comfort is another area where the Kraken Kitty V2 BT Kuromi Edition excels. The plush ear cushions and lightweight design ensure a comfortable fit, even during extended use. The headband is well-padded and adjustable, accommodating a variety of head sizes. The headset’s lightweight construction prevents fatigue, making it ideal for long gaming sessions or streaming marathons.
However, it’s important to acknowledge the limitations of this headset. While the Bluetooth connectivity offers versatility, it’s worth noting that PlayStation consoles, particularly the PS4 and PS5, exhibit limited compatibility with Bluetooth audio devices. This means that users seeking a seamless wireless experience on these platforms might be disappointed. Opting for the wired version of the Kraken Kitty V2 is recommended for PlayStation users.
The build quality, while generally satisfactory, is not exceptional. The plastic construction feels somewhat lightweight, and the hinges and adjustments may not inspire the same level of confidence as premium headsets. However, this is a trade-off often made to achieve a more affordable price point.
The Kuromi Edition commands a slight premium over the standard Kraken Kitty V2 BT. While the additional cost might deter some, the unique design and attention to detail justify the price difference for fans of the Sanrio character. This edition is not just a headset; it’s a statement piece, a collectible item that reflects the user’s personality and style.
In conclusion, the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT Kuromi Edition is a well-rounded headset that successfully blends style and functionality. It delivers a solid audio experience, comfortable fit, and reliable wireless connectivity. While it may not cater to the most demanding audiophiles or PlayStation users, it’s an excellent choice for gamers and streamers seeking a unique and expressive headset. The careful attention to detail in the Kuromi-themed design elevates this edition beyond a simple recoloring, making it a desirable collectible for fans of the character.
