Metro Awakening, the highly-anticipated VR game set within the acclaimed Metro franchise, will launch on Nov. 7. The announcement was made today during Sony’s State of Play Showcase, where a brand-new trailer offered a closer look at the game’s plot and immersive gameplay. Penned by Dmitry Glukhovsky, Metro Awakening delves into the origin story of one of Metro’s most pivotal characters.
Developed and published by Vertigo Games in collaboration with Deep Silver, Metro Awakening is coming to PlayStation VR2, Meta Quest 2 and 3, Steam VR, and Viveport.
Pre-orders now available:
Pre-orders are now available on PS VR2, Meta Quest, and Steam VR for both the Standard and Deluxe Editions, each including exclusive in-game items as detailed below. Pre-orders are not available on Viveport, and the Deluxe Edition will launch on the platform on Nov. 7.
Pre-ordering the Deluxe Edition grants fans a 10% discount, 48-hour Early Access to the game on Nov. 5 (please note: early access available only on PS VR2 and Steam VR), and additional bonuses.
Explore the awakening of a legend:
Metro Awakening plunges players into the unforgiving, post-apocalyptic world of Metro through immersive VR, unveiling the origin story of one of the franchise’s most beloved and intriguing characters.
Crafted by series creator Dmitry Glukhovsky, this standalone prequel to Metro 2033 follows Serdar, a doctor braving the treacherous tunnels in search of his missing wife. As his sanity is pushed to the limit, Serdar confronts the edge between life and death, ultimately awakening as Khan, the legendary mystic figure whose wisdom and understanding of the tunnels’ supernatural forces will echo through time, becoming the spiritual guide shaping the fate of those who dwell in the Metro depths.
“The Metro franchise isn’t just about survival; it’s also about the powerful stories that emerge from its world. By collaborating with Dmitry, we’ve created something truly special—a deeply personal narrative that will resonate with both longtime fans and newcomers,” said Martin de Ronde, Game and Creative Director at Vertigo Games.
Digital pre-order editions & bonuses:
Standard Edition ($39.99): Pre-orders feature the Field Medic pack, which includes a Field Medic Bag backpack skin, Bear Keepsake backpack charm, Medic Badge backpack patch, and Healing Hands glove skin.
Deluxe Edition ($49.99): Pre-order the Deluxe Edition to receive a 10% discount, 48-hour Early Access to the full game starting Nov. 5 (please note: early access available only on PS VR2 and Steam VR), and the Field Medic pack. The Deluxe Edition features the Memories of Polyanka pack—with a Nosalis Hide backpack skin, Nosalis Toy backpack charm, The Fallen backpack patch, and Nosalis Skeletal glove skin—plus access to the digital VR Concept Art Gallery.
Learn more by signing up for the newsletter at MetroAwakening.com. To stay up to date about Metro Awakening and other titles from Vertigo Games, join the community on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
Today, Victura announced its much-anticipated “Command and Control” update for the historically accurate first-person tactical shooter Six Days in Fallujah, available November 7, 2024, for all players on Steam.
Six Days in Fallujah brings video game players closer to the realities of war by recreating real-world scenarios and authentic military tactics and blending these with documentary videos featuring interviews with Iraqis and Americans who were present during the Second Battle of Fallujah in November 2004.
The upcoming Command and Control update reintroduces, and modernizes, the “squad-based shooter” genre, which was pioneered by games like the original Rainbow Six, Ghost Recon, Brothers in Arms, and SOCOM, but has been mostly abandoned for more than a decade due to the technical challenges of delivering realistic AI teammates that players can control. This upcoming update will allow players to execute sophisticated military tactics, like fix-and-flank, breaching, and 360-degree security, by giving orders to their AI fireteam.
This update also introduces Six Days in Fallujah’s first two single-player story campaign missions, making Six Days in Fallujah the world’s first documentary videogame. These missions bring players inside the events that led to the creation of ISIS and the first major battle in which Iraqis and Americans joined forces to fight Al Qaeda in Iraq, which had seized control of the city of Fallujah.
Six Days in Fallujah initially launched into Steam Early Access on June 22, 2023, instantly becoming the world’s #1 best-selling PC game, and it remained a Top 10 seller throughout the following week. Conceived by Sgt. Eddie Garcia, a Marine who was wounded during the battle, Six Days in Fallujah was created in collaboration with more than 100 US Marines and Soldiers as well as more than two dozen Iraqi civilians and soldiers.
Developed by Victura’s internal development studio, Highwire Games, Six Days in Fallujah features a first-ever “Procedural Architecture” system that reshapes the physical architecture of buildings each time the game is played; just like actual combat, players never know what to expect. Six Days in Fallujah asks players to overcome real-world scenarios with their fireteams by using real-life military tactics while experiencing an unglamorized depiction of one of the most consequential events of the 21st century.
Today, Offworld has launched Update 8.1 for its acclaimed 50v50 military FPS Squad, headlined by the addition of the game’s newest faction: the Western Private Military Contractors (WPMC). The WPMC are a mercenary group, soldiers of fortune who carry out missions for the highest bidder rather than serving a specific country. It’s an irregular Independent faction that focuses on non-standardized, modern infantry, lacking the tools that other conventional forces have such as heavy vehicles and heavy weapons. The WPMC can also be used on any map and against any faction. It consists of three distinct units for different types of combat:
Murk Water Air Wing (Air Assault), which prioritizes attacking from the air and is equipped with the new close-air support Loach helicopter.
Manticore Security Task Force (Combined Arms), which focuses on controlling the battlefield through a mix of ground infantry and armoured vehicles, including the M60T tank, the TOW and M2 variants of the M1151 armoured car, three helicopters, & more.
Overwatch 6 Patrol Group (Light Infantry) This unit specializes in using ground infantry to swiftly capture strategic objectives, and has access to nine 4×4 quadbikes, SUVs equipped with miniguns, the TOW variant of the M1151 armoured car, & more.
The WPMC comes fully-equipped with a diverse range of vehicles & weapons, including the following:
Convoy Protection Vehicle
M113A3 Mobile Spawn Vehicle
M1117 Armored Car
Loach Scout Helicopter
Loach CAS Helicopter
M14 Battle Rifle
MP5A3 Submachine Gun
M320 Grenade Launcher
Aftermarket parts variants of the M4 Carbine and M16 Assault Rifle
M16 C-MAG Auto Rifle
AK-101 Rifle
Other new additions arriving with Hired Guns include a revised post-match scoreboard system—dubbed the After-Action Report, and containing a more detailed look at individual and squad performance through the match. And to round out the new content, the weapon skins collection Contractors Pack is now available to purchase for all players, containing skins for new weapons featured in the WPMC faction.
Hired Guns releases in time for Squad’s Free Weekend Event on Steam, which runs from September 26 – 30. Players will be able to try the new WPMC faction as well as purchase Squad at its all-time lowest price – $20 (60% off).
Squad is a 100-player combined-arms first-person shooter emphasizing combat realism through communication and team play, emphasizing strong squad cohesion mechanics and larger-scale coordination, tactics, and planning. It features 23 massive open maps, vehicle-based combined arms gameplay, and player-constructed bases to create a heart-thumping, visceral gaming experience with split-second decision-making in real-world scale firefights.
Last night, at State of Play, publisher NACON and studio Rogue Factor unveiled the first gameplay trailer for Hell is Us, the studio’s major new project. Jonathan Jacques-Belletête, the creative director on the game, invites players to join him on NACON’s YouTube channel on September 30 at 5pm CEST to find out more about Hell is Us. The game is scheduled for release in 2025 on PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S and PC.
Hell is Us is a third-person action-adventure game where the protagonist sets out to learn more about his past in the different regions of a country ravaged by civil war. The almost total self-sufficiency of the country hides a dark secret: the recent appearance of supernatural creatures resembling ancient headstones and monuments in the region. Armed with weapons specially forged to fight these monsters, the protagonist must learn how to defeat them and use his equipment wisely.
The game also features a singular approach to game design, that can best be named by the term “player-plattering”. This concept is the opposite of “silver-plattering”, which consists of over-explaining and serving everything to players on a silver platter. With Hell is Us, the studio wanted to go back to the roots of old-school adventure games, by encouraging exploration and reflection, and by eliminating traditional aids. Here, there are no detailed maps, quest markers or compasses revealing all points of interest: players will have to rely on their intuition, observational and reasoning skills to progress through their journey and discover the secrets of these mysterious lands. Further information on this concept is available in an exclusive PlayStation Blog article.
Join us on 30 September at 4pm BST / 8am PT on NACON’s YouTube channel for a detailed presentation of the game, hosted by Jonathan Jacques-Belletête !
Today, EA and BioWare showcased a brand-new gameplay trailer for Dragon Age: The Veilguard, the single-player fantasy RPG experience coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC on October 31, 2024. Click here to watch the trailer on Dragon Age’s YouTube channel.
In the trailer, Dragon Age’s newest hero Rook fights alongside two companions, Taash and Lucanis, against a fearsome dragon that the blighted gods have unleashed on Thedas. The trailer highlights the combat abilities of the Mage class, incinerating, freezing, electrocuting and crushing foes using the game’s new Ability Wheel.
Check out the blog here or pasted below (minus embedded video):
We are excited to share with you the latest look from Dragon Age: The Veilguard. In this new gameplay slice, captured on PlayStation 5, watch Rook, Dragon Age’s newest hero, fighting alongside two companions, Taash and Lucanis, that we brought along specifically for this battle. There are seven companions in total in the game, and these make up the Veilguard – who are tasked with Rook to take on corrupt ancient gods who are hellbent on destroying the world.
As seen in the trailer, the blighted gods have unleashed a fearsome dragon on Thedas. It will be up to you, as Rook, to use all your tactical skills and abilities in the fight – whilst commanding your companions in battle with the ability wheel – to fight smart and strategically deliver the most devastating attacks and combos to bring the gigantic beast down.
The Rook featured in this battle is a Mage – one of three classes you can choose when you create your character. Mages rain down fury with spells that incinerate, freeze, electrocute and crush. Some cast from afar, while others prefer close quarters combat.
The mage class can switch between two weapon sets – a Staff for ranged attacks, or an Elemental Orb and Dagger for close quarters combat. Eagle eyed players might be able to see Rook is facing off against an ice dragon in the trailer, which is vulnerable to fire. Because of this, the player has equipped an Orb that enhances Burning damage, alongside supplementary skills that complement the equipped weaponry.
Throughout the fight, Rook commands her companions to utilize abilities that set up powerful damage combinations. For example, when the dragon is staggered, Rook primes the target by commanding Lucanis to use the “Debilitate” ability. This applies the “Sundered” status, which is then detonated by Rook’s “Dark Squall” ability. This Primer + Detonator combo produces massive damage, getting the group closer to victory.
To end the battle, Rook uses the equipped ultimate ability “Thunderous End”, unleashing a massive amount of damage, shocking enemies in a wide radius. This is perfect against a large target like the ice dragon you’re facing off against.
Ultimately, as either a Mage, Rogue, or Warrior, you will strive to become the leader and can customize your look, abilities, gear, and companions, all based on your playstyle. Each and every battle you face is an opportunity to try new strategies against increasingly perilous enemies.
In Dragon Age: The Veilguard, releasing on October 31 on PlayStation 5, you will save the battered world of Thedas and unite the Veilguard: your team of seven companions, each with their own rich lives and deep backstories. This bold, heroic adventure is built to deliver on what BioWare is best known for: rich storytelling, fantasy worldbuilding, companions & fellowship, and a world where you matter.
IO Interactive, the independent video game developer and publisher behind, among others, the internationally acclaimed HITMAN franchise, debuted a first look at HITMAN World of Assassination on PlayStation VR2 during the PlayStation State of Play. Planned for release in December 2024, the PlayStation VR2 version of HITMAN World of Assassination will feature brand-new VR features including dual-wielding, full ambidexterity, room-scale implementation, as well as general improved VR experience through new intuitive controls and gameplay mechanics. Players will be able to access the PSVR2 version through an upgrade pack available for HITMAN World of Assassination owners on PlayStation®5.
HITMAN World of Assassination on PlayStation VR2 will support the full main campaign of HITMAN World of Assassination, allowing players to enjoy the award-winning game with added immersion and brand-new additions. Become the world’s best assassin through the 4K HDR display of PlayStation VR2. Explore your surroundings, create unique strategies using the environment, disguise yourself to blend in the crowd, and strike when the timing is right, all through Agent 47’s eyes.
HITMAN World of Assassination on PlayStation VR2 has been enhanced to completely immerse players during their missions. Now supporting dual-wielding, a wide array of actions and interactions have been added, including the possibility of performing actions with both controllers at the same time, active reloading, on-body weapon holstering, aiming through the sniper’s scope. Enhancements have been added to improve the core VR experience, such as Room scale implementation, spatial interactions to touch, grab, and position, integration of the PlayStation VR2 controllers’ adaptative triggers, and many more.
Players who already own HITMAN World of Assassination on PlayStation 5 will be able to buy an upgrade pack to the PlayStation VR2 content for $9.99, €9.99, £8.99.
HITMAN World of Assassination will launch on PlayStation VR2 for PlayStation 5 in December 2024. HITMAN World of Assassination is available now on PlayStation 5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, and Nintendo Switch.
The blog post regarding HITMAN World of Assassination coming to PlayStation VR2 can be found here.
A new champion rises in an epic battle against some of the fiercest fighters of the Three Kingdoms in KOEI TECMO’s upcoming action game, DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS. Developed by Omega Force, DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS introduces a nameless hero to the 1 vs. 1,000 gameplay of Warriors lore as a mysterious martial artist steps to the forefront of the game’s epic story. Scheduled to release worldwide on Jan. 17, 2025 on PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, and Windows PC via Steam®, the title promises to deliver the most intense combat of any game in franchise history.
As seen in the stirring new video, DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS begins during the dawn of an era of tremendous upheaval in the Three Kingdoms, when the original protagonist — a traveling martial artist with amnesia – finds himself in the middle of great conflict. Here, the game’s hero partakes in this dramatic tale of ancient China, where he plays an active role in the storyline while giving players first-hand experience in the drama of the war-torn land. Throughout the journey, players will make various choices as the protagonist — but he too carries a secret — which will have an impact on the Three Kingdoms, helping illustrate a turbulent time in history in exciting new ways.
Throughout his battles, the nameless hero will sometimes forge into combat on his own, while at other times, he’ll join alongside allied officers and soldiers to storm towards large forces of enemies. Players can rely on the strength of accompanying Musou officers, issue commands to units, or charge forward into oncoming armies, varying up strategies to conquer the deadly battlefield in this epic showcase of 1 vs. 1,000 action.
Throughout DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS, there will also be many well-known and powerful officers such as Lu Bu waiting to test the young martial artist’s skill. Battles against these officers who possess near superhuman strength results in combat that is both highly action-oriented and challenging while keeping players on the edge of their seats throughout every encounter. This extraordinary power also thrives within your allies as the Companion officer that accompanies the protagonist can become temporarily playable if certain conditions are met during battle, leading to an exhilarating experience of clearing out enemies with dominance on a completely different scale!
For more information on DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINS, be sure to visit the official site, Subscribe to the official KOEI TECMO America YouTube channel, Like us on Facebook, and Follow us on X, Instagram, and Discord.
Insta360, a global leader in innovative camera technology, today announced the launch of Insta360 Link 2 and Link 2C, a pair of AI-powered 4K webcams that aim to revolutionize online video conferencing and live streaming experiences.
Whether heading up a meeting, delivering online lessons, or engaging with viewers on a live stream, the quality of both your video and your audio matters more than ever.
Link 2 and Link 2C are designed to meet these demands, delivering premium imaging that shines in any environment. The high-performance 1/2″ sensor, paired with advanced HDR technology and the latest AI image enhancing and noise reduction, all work to ensure lifelike detail even in challenging lighting conditions. The audio offering for these webcams has also been transformed, with new algorithms and AI noise reduction technology ensuring best-in-class audio, without the need for a separate mic.
“Link 2 and Link 2C represent our ongoing commitment to making virtual connections more engaging and seamless. We’ve listened to user feedback and pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in a webcam, combining premium 4K imaging, crystal-clear audio, and intuitive AI-powered features. Link 2 and Link 2C empower you to present your best self online, no matter where you are,” shared JK Liu, Founder of Insta360.
Insta360 Link 2 and 2C are available to order from September 24 via the Insta360 Official Store and select retailers, priced at US$199 and US$149 respectively.
Exceptional imaging in any environment.
In the realm of virtual communication, first impressions matter. Whether you’re pitching a client, teaching a class, or building your online community, your video quality speaks volumes. That’s why Link 2 and Link 2C come equipped with the best imaging technology in their class.
At the heart of these webcams lies a powerful 1/2″ sensor, which is larger than those found in typical webcams. A larger sensor means they capture more light and more detail, with strong low light capabilities, enabling their use even in poorly lit spaces. This is coupled with advanced HDR (High Dynamic Range) technology to really drive that dynamic range and get greater balance between highlights and shadows.
With support for up to 4K30fps resolution, you’ll always look your best on camera. The crisp details and vibrant colors help remove those layers of separation that exist in online communication, and make it feel more like a face-to-face interaction.
Link 2 and Link 2C don’t only look after your appearance. They’re able to replicate a near DSLR-like depth of field, with an impressively natural bokeh effect for your surroundings. There’s also True Focus, which uses faster, more accurate Phase Detection Auto Focus (PDAF) to rapidly focus and avoid blurry shots.
Two unique models.
Everyone has different needs and preferences when it comes to their webcam setup. That’s why we’ve created two distinct models, each offering unique advantages.
Link 2: For those who need ultimate flexibility, Link 2 features a built-in 2-axis gimbal for smooth, stabilized footage and AI-powered tracking that keeps you in frame.
Link 2C: Ideal for those with a more fixed setup, Link 2C offers the same stunning 4K image quality and AI features in a compact, gimbal-free design.
Both Link 2 and Link 2C will launch with upgraded, premium accessories. A new Magnetic Mount, included in the box, makes setup a breeze. There’s also the option to snap the camera onto a monitor or any magnetic surface for quick and easy positioning.
AI noise reduction and professional audio.
Distracting background noise can derail even the most polished live stream or presentation. Link 2 and Link 2C put an end to that, thanks to their state-of-the-art AI noise reduction technology. From a busy coffee shop or shared workspace to the comfort of your own home, you can count on professional-grade audio.
Powered by advanced algorithms, these webcams filter out unwanted sounds like keyboard clicks, nearby conversations, or traffic noise, ensuring your voice comes through loud and clear.
Link 2 and Link 2C come with three unique profiles to tailor to your environment, including Voice Focus, Voice Suppression, and Music Balance- ensuring whatever the situation, your message is heard.
Intuitive AI-powered control.
Link 2 and Link 2C have taken their AI capabilities up a level. Move freely, gesture effortlessly, and let the camera do the work.
With precision AI Tracking and Auto Framing, you’re free to move around while the camera keeps you perfectly centered in the frame. Ideal for educators, presenters, and anyone who needs to move around their space during a video call or live stream. A newly added Group Tracking option also ensures that if you’re co-hosting, neither you or your partner take up too much of the frame.
New Pause-Track Areas allow the camera to recognize areas where it shouldn’t track you. This is ideal, for example, in an e-commerce live stream, to show products in different positions without the camera following you, or in a presentation setting to ensure sensitive areas or information aren’t shown (available on Link 2 only).
Gesture Control has received a significant refresh, allowing for even more control without ever touching your camera. Simple hand gestures trigger actions like starting/stopping AI Tracking, zooming in or out, and activating Smart Whiteboard Mode. Intuitive, convenient, and perfect for keeping your focus on your audience.
Versatile tools for any scenario.
The new generation of Link brings a host of new and updated features for effortless engagements online, with added modes, better control remotely, and professional-grade filters.
Smart Whiteboard Mode*: Auto-detects the whiteboard that you’re presenting from, keeping it squared off and in focus. Online presentations have never been easier. Alternatively, there’s the existing Whiteboard Mode, which uses small recognition markers to designate the presentation space.
*Requires the use of the Link Controller desktop software.
Full 4K Portrait Mode: Capture uncropped 4K vertical video, perfect for social media. Simply attach to a tripod (sold separately) for high resolution streaming.
Remote Smartphone Control: Adjust settings, switch modes, and control the gimbal (Link 2) right from your phone.
Background Replacement: Need to hide a messy room or jump into a professional setting quickly? Link 2 and Link 2C offer seamless background switching.
DeskView Mode: Perfect overhead view for presentations and demos.
One Click Makeup: A makeup filter that actually looks natural! Perfect when you’re running late and want to add a last-minute touch up.
Privacy Mode: Easily protect your privacy with configurable states where the webcam will face downward and mute itself.
All this in a set of webcams that are compatible with all major video conferencing and streaming platforms, including Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Twitch, and more.
Available Now
The future of video conferencing and live streaming starts here. Insta360 Link 2 and Link 2C will be available worldwide starting September 24th 2024, available for US$199 and US$149 respectively. Both are available via the Insta360 Official Store, Amazon, and select retailers.
Upgrade your setup today and discover how Insta360 Link 2 and Link 2C can transform your online presence.
The wait is over! Epic Mickey is back, and this time, the stakes are truly epic! Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed, the highly anticipated remake of the beloved classic, developed by Purple Lamp in collaboration with Disney Games and published by THQ Nordic, is now available on Nintendo® Switch, PS4™, PS5™, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
Mickey Mouse’s adventure with magic ink has gone awry, and he soon finds himself pulled into the dangerous world of Wasteland, a realm where forgotten Disney characters reside. In Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed, players will step into Mickey’s shoes and take control of his magical brush to restore the world around him or use paint and thinner to reshape the environment and uncover hidden secrets.
Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed brings the classic 2010 game back and for the first time ever, is available to modern consoles with enhanced visuals and graphics. New gameplay features include dash, ground pound and sprint allowing fans of the original and newcomers alike more ways to navigate Wasteland and combat enemies. Along with the magic paint brush, players can explore the unpredictable world of Wasteland, with levels inspired by classic Disney stories, and meet familiar faces along the way.
Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed is available now for Nintendo® Switch, PS4™, PS5™, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and PC at an SRP of € 59.99 / $ 59.99 / £ 49.99 / AU$ 99.95 / ¥ 7590.
Follow @thqnordic for all Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed news and updates.
The Riftbreaker: Heart of the Swamp plunges players into an all-new, uncharted Fungal Swamp biome teeming with unique flora, fauna, and challenges. As players explore the mysterious swamps, they will encounter new enemies, find powerful upgrades, and develop groundbreaking technologies that will give them a multitude of strategic options in this unwelcoming environment. “Our goal with Heart of the Swamp was to expand the universe of The Riftbreaker in ways that offer fresh, exciting experiences for both new and veteran players,” said Paweł Lekki, COO of EXOR Studios. “The Fungal Swamp biome is filled with unique challenges and mysteries that we believe will captivate and engage our community.”
