Video

Industry Giant 4 Playtest Begins August 23rd

Developer Don VS Dodo and publisher Toplitz Productions are pleased to reveal that the playtest for their real time economic strategy simulation game Industry Giant 4.0 begins on August 23rd via Steam.

Business sim fans and moguls in the making will get a chance to explore their entrepreneurial spirit and business savvy minds as they dip their toes into creating and managing a thriving business.

The playtest will give players the opportunity to test their business strategies to shape an industrial empire from the ground up with all of the currently available tools at their disposal to formulate and run an economically viable business. Industry Giant 4.0 aims to offer a comprehensive experience in transportation infrastructure, industrial building, production planning, and financial management.

When the game launches this year Industry Giant 4.0 will give business sim fans different industries including mines, farms, manufacturing as well as raw materials, intermediate products and end products to manage.

“We’re thrilled to open the doors to our first public playtest for Industry Giant 4.0. It’s only fitting that such a well regarded franchise is put through its paces with players and fans alike, and we’d love to hear what players think so we can continue to meet the expectations of the community and avid fans of the Giant games“ says Co-Founder Matthias Lutz at Don VS Dodo.

At launch Industry Giant 4.0 will encompass all the aspects necessary to create and manage a successful business empire including its many intricacies such as managing the flow of goods to the condition and efficiencies of factories, stores and warehouses as well as innovation, productivity and resource efficiency.

Players will even construct transportation networks, plan production, manage finances, and navigate global events that can impact their bottom line. Furthermore, players will also have to deal with the complexities of outside influences as well,from seasonal challenges such as weather and random events, to market conditions and financial implications such as taxation and permits.

Players interested in joining the public playtest can apply now on the games official Steam page here.

The Industry Giant 4.0 playtest starts on August 23rd and runs until August 30th.

Construction Simulator 4 Lite version Available Now

astragon Entertainment and Independent Arts Software released the Lite Edition of the already published mobile simulation game Construction Simulator® 4. The Lite Edition for iPhone®, iPad®, Android™ smartphones, and tablets allows curious players to test the game for free.

In Construction Simulator® 4, you can complete construction tasks for the first time on mobile devices in a cooperative multiplayer, where two players work on tasks on the construction site both in parallel and together. The new map Pinewood Bay is inspired by the landscape of North America and offers varied construction tasks such as building a maritime museum or iconic lighthouse. Therefore, players can use over 80 machines and vehicles from more than 20 well-known and officially licensed manufacturers of the construction industry.

Construction Simulator® 4 – Lite provides a first insight into the game and allows players to get a taste of construction site life in various selected construction tasks. The full version can be unlocked for 4.99 USD / 4.99 GBP / 5.99 EUR at any time without losing the progress.

Construction Simulator® 4 is available on the Apple® App Store® and on Google Play® for 4.99 USD / 4.99 GBP / 5.99 EUR. Additionally, the game is released on the Nintendo eShop for a price of 34.99 USD / 29.99 GBP / 34.99 EUR (SRP) and as a boxed version in several countries at selected retailers.

An overview of selected offers for Construction Simulator® 4 can be found here: https://cs4.construction-simulator.com/

Millennia: Ancient Worlds Official Release Trailer

Begin your society on a hostile and uncivilized map in Ancient Worlds, a new expansion pack for Millennia, available today. This add-on adds new challenges to the early phases to C Prompt and Paradox Interactive’s 4X game on the course of human history. Open the game with a band of wandering nomads, scavenge a post-Ice Age world for natural resources, and choose your first settlement with care.

Features of Millennia: Ancient Worlds include:

  • Nomadic Band Start: Open the game with an unsettled band of travellers, scavenging for resources to improve the strength of your group until you decide to settle down and form a proper society.
  • New Threats: Megafauna stalk the land, threatening your prehistoric nomads but providing the chance for new events and experiences.
  • New Terrain: A Frozen Terrain start introduces new challenges as it limits resource gathering, but lush grasslands and forests are revealed as the tundra melts and more hospitable settings expand.
  • New National Spirit: Messengers is an Age II National Spirit that emphasises early game diplomacy. Give gifts to your rival nations, gather resources from minor nations and preserve their independence, and reap benefits from the new Llama special good.
  • New Starting Government: Band Society: Rather than building up a Homeland, Band Societies rely on potent short-term bonuses and Tribal Camps to gain an early lead. They also gain a Nomad Band to scavenge terrain and settle an additional Capital Region.
  • New Landmarks: Discover majestic natural wonders as you explore your new world. Mount Jianglang, Iguazu Falls, the Great Redwood Forest and eight more Landmarks can appear on the map, each with its own new Expedition.

Frostpunk 2 PC Special Edition Announcement Trailer

Skybound Games in partnership with developer 11 bit studios today revealed details of the Frostpunk 2 PC Special Edition, which is now available for pre-order exclusively at Skybound’s Online Store for $99.99 and will ship globally. Frostpunk 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed society survival game Frostpunk, releases for PC on September 20th, 2024.

Diving even deeper into the post-apocalyptic abyss, Frostpunk 2 builds upon the foundations that made its predecessor a triumph. It combines city building, strategy and management gameplay while thrusting players into a world of unyielding realities and complex social dilemmas. With a broader scope and expansion in every aspect of gameplay mechanics, Frostpunk 2 escalates the tension as players steer the City and its inhabitants into an uncertain future.

The Frostpunk 2 PC Special Edition includes:

  • “Deluxe” Edition: Includes Steam key for base game, 3 post-release DLCs, exclusive in-game item, “Warm Flesh” novella, and a digital artbook & soundtrack.
  • Artistic Shadowbox: This multi-layered frame with integrated LED lights provides a stunning piece to adorn any desk or wall, bringing a touch of the Frostpunk universe into the real world.
  • Numbered Limited Edition: As part of a limited production by Skybound, each Frostpunk 2 PC Special Edition box will be individually numbered, making each box one-of-a-kind.
  • Faction Patch: Are you a technocrat or iceblood? Each box contains one of two available high-quality, embroidered patches, randomly allocated, perfect for stitching onto backpacks or sleeves.
  • Metal & Enamel Keychain: Inspired by the game’s key art, this high-quality piece is a beautiful addition to a Frostpunk fan’s keychain.
  • Two Art Postcards: Players can now send warm greetings from the icy frostland to friends (or foes) with these beautifully designed postcards.
  • Stickers: Featuring the game’s logo and key art, these stickers are perfect for fans to express their passion for Frostpunk 2.

“I’ve been a Frostpunk player, a Captain, since the first game’s release in 2018,” said Ian Howe, Managing Partner at Skybound Games. “So when the opportunity to work with 11 bit studios for Frostpunk 2 came about, I very enthusiastically rallied the Skybound Games team to start visualizing what an exceptional physical edition could look like. Where we landed is a carefully curated PC edition with the hope of providing not just an immersive experience, extending the frostlands beyond the screen, but something fans can treasure for years to come.”

The Frostpunk 2 PC Special Edition is now available for pre-order exclusively at the Skybound Online Store: http://www.skybound.com/frostpunk2

Frostpunk 2 is coming on September 20th on PC, and day one into PC Game Pass, with console launch following later.

Realpolitiks 3: Earth and Beyond Offers New Ways to Establish Your Political Legacy

Dear World Leaders, Generals, Master Strategists, Politicians, Prime Ministers, Kings, Emperors, and other Rulers! We are delighted to bring you news of the new features in the latest installment in Fulqrum Publishing and Jujubee’s grand strategy series – Realpolitiks 3: Earth and Beyond – which is set to release on PC via Steam, Epic Games Store and GOG later this year.

Realpolitiks 3: Earth and Beyond places you at the helm of a modern state, where your decisions will shape the future of the world. Developers Jujubee are constantly striving for realism and complexity, offering a true-to-life experience of the challenges faced by contemporary leaders. Realpolitiks 3 offers a whole host of new features for would-be leaders to sink their teeth into – Here’s just a brief taster of how this latest edition will raise your leadership skills to new heights.

New Combat System: Realpolitiks 3 has revolutionised the series’ combat system. Units can now move freely across the map, with battles taking place along fronts in various provinces, allowing for a more strategic approach to military management. Air support can now be used to bolster your forces, and new possibilities are introduced with the inclusion of battles in Earth’s orbit and on other planets. Prepare for new challenges, as you will now need to manage not only land, naval, and air forces, but also space armies! The series has now moved away from separate battlefields and micromanagement of units, focusing instead on grand strategic decisions that can determine the fate of entire nations.

The Role of the Head of State, Politicians, and Parties: The role of the head of state and other key political figures has been significantly expanded. Your leader can gain experience and new skills, becoming a more effective ruler over time. However, beware of character flaws that may impact your governing skills – will you manage a state led by a gambler or a less-than-brilliant leader? You can also hire specialists for your ministries to leverage their abilities and create political dynasties. Choose from 18 new political systems, including anarchy, technocracy, or military junta, and shape your government according to your vision.

Space Exploration and Colonization: Take your ambitions to new heights with the ability to colonize the Moon and other planets in our Solar System. The scope of Realpolitiks 1’s colonization has returned, but in a completely new format. In addition to traditional military operations, you can now explore space, develop new technologies, and establish bases in interplanetary space. Space expansion becomes a key element of your strategy, offering unprecedented opportunities for growth.

New Building System: Provincial development has taken on a new significance in Realpolitiks 3. Players can now build multiple structures within a single province, depending on its level of development. Watch as road networks and cities expand, reflecting your progress and strategy. Every investment decision becomes more crucial, with infrastructure development being a key to success.

New “Way of Life” Mechanic: Realpolitiks 3 is introducing a new mechanic that defines a country’s current “Way of Life.” This mechanic is not directly related to the current political system or parameters, but rather signifies the long-term attitude and expectations of the population. Points are earned by the head of state and government officials. Politicians now have a new parameter—Ideology, which influences the “Way of Life” by steadily guiding the nation towards certain traits, such as authoritarianism or liberalism. These changes define the long-term development and policies of the state.

Leader and Political System Customization: At the start of the game, players will be able to choose their political system and customize your initial leader. Will you govern your state with an iron fist as a military dictator, or lead as a democratic ruler with a liberal approach? The choice is yours, and every decision has its consequences.

Grand Strategy Engine and Cutting-Edge Technology: Fulqrum Publishing and Jujubee are excited to introduce a suite of groundbreaking technologies that elevate the game beyond its predecessors. The new Grand Strategy Engine, along with their proprietary Strategy Forge tools and the advanced AI system GS-AIM, mark a significant leap forward in their development capabilities. These state-of-the-art technologies not only distinguish this installment from previous entries but also address some of the critical issues players experienced in Realpolitiks 2.

Thanks to the Grand Strategy Engine, players can now enjoy much shorter save and load times, making for a more seamless and immersive gameplay experience. The Strategy Forge tools have empowered the game’s designers to create more intricate and dynamic game systems, ensuring a deeper and more engaging strategy experience. Meanwhile, the GS-AIM provides smarter and more responsive AI, offering a more challenging and realistic opponent in both diplomatic and military engagements. With these innovations, Jujubee has not only improved the overall stability and performance of the game but has also acheived the highest standard in the grand strategy genre.

And that was just a brief taster of what awaits you in Realpolitiks 3: Earth and Beyond when it launches on PC via Steam, Epic Games Store and GOG later this year. Get ready to step into the world of Realpolitiks 3 – a simulator that will make you feel like a true leader!

Marvel Television’s Agatha All Along Official Trailer

Excited attendees of the studio showcase at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event were the first to see the decidedly dark and mysterious new trailer and poster for Marvel Television’s “Agatha All Along”—cast members Kathryn Hahn, Joe Locke, Sasheer Zamata, Ali Ahn, Debra Jo Rupp and Patti LuPone joined together on stage to sing the Sacred Chant version of the series’ theme song “The Ballad of the Witches Road” by Oscar®-winning songwriters Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, who, along with cast member Aubrey Plaza, joined Kevin Feige on stage. Now available to download and share, the new trailer gave fans some insight into the upcoming series, which streams exclusively on Disney+ beginning September 18, with the first two episodes.

In Marvel Studios’ “Agatha All Along,” the infamous Agatha Harkness finds herself down and out of power after a suspicious goth Teen helps break her free from a distorted spell. Her interest is piqued when he begs her to take him on the legendary Witches’ Road, a magical gauntlet of trials that, if survived, rewards a witch with what they’re missing. Together, Agatha and this mysterious Teen pull together a desperate coven, and set off down, down, down The Road…

The executive producers are Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Brad Winderbaum, Mary Livanos and Jac Schaeffer, who is also the head writer and directed three episodes. Rachel Goldberg and Gandja Monteiro each direct three episodes of the original live-action series.

Mufasa: The Lion King Official Trailer Released

Disney’s “Mufasa: The Lion King” director Barry Jenkins and songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda, along with cast members Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, Theo Somolu, Braelyn Rankins and Anika Noni Rose, shared an exciting new trailer and poster with fans attending the studio showcase at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. The film capped the studio’s presentation tonight with a show-stopping performance of the classic “Nants’ Ingonyama” and new song “Ngomso” by Lebo M., who contributes to the film’s music, alongside a full choir. “Mufasa: The Lion King” releases only in theaters Dec. 20, 2024.

Exploring the unlikely rise of the beloved king of the Pride Lands, “Mufasa: The Lion King” enlists Rafiki to relay the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala, with Timon and Pumbaa lending their signature schtick. Told in flashbacks, the story introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, lost and alone until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka—the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of an extraordinary group of misfits searching for their destiny—their bonds will be tested as they work together to evade a threatening and deadly foe.

In addition to the cast attending D23 this year, the film also features John Kani, Tiffany Boone, Kagiso Lediga, Preston Nyman, Mads Mikkelsen, Thandiwe Newton, Lennie James, Keith David, Donald Glover, Blue Ivy Carter, Folake Olowofoyeku, Joanna Jones, Thuso Mbedu, Sheila Atim, Abdul Salis, Dominique Jennings and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter. Blending live-action filmmaking techniques with photoreal computer-generated imagery, the all-new feature film is produced by Adele Romanski & Mark Ceryak, and executive produced by Peter Tobyansen.

DISNEY ANIMATION’S MOANA 2 GETS NEW TRAILER

Chee hoo! Moana, Maui, Heihei, Pua the pig and the dart-wielding Kakamora are back—and that’s just for starters in the all-new big-screen adventure. A new trailer and poster are now available for Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Moana 2,” opening in theaters on Nov. 27, 2024. The trailer received an enthusiastic response tonight when stars Auli‘i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson—together on the D23 stage for the first time ever—shared it with fans attending the studio showcase at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. Cravalho wowed the audience with a live performance of one of the film’s new songs, “We’re Back,” with dancers and drummers from Nonosina Polynesia under the direction of Tiana Liufau—who contributed animation reference choreography to “Moana” and the new film—and Johnson led the audience in a rousing “chee hoo!” chant.

Also revealed were additional voice cast, including returning stars Rachel House (Moana’s Grandma, Tala), Temuera Morrison (Moana’s father, Chief Tui) and Nicole Scherzinger (Moana’s mother, Sina). The film also features the voices of Hualālai Chung, David Fane and Rose Matafeo as Moana’s new crew members Moni, Kele and Loto, respectively. Awhimai Fraser voices mysterious new character Matangi; Gerald Ramsey plays Moana’s ancestor, Tautai Vasa; and Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda lends her voice to Moana’s adoring and adorable little sister, Simea.

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ epic animated musical “Moana 2” reunites Moana (voice of Cravalho) and Maui (voice of Johnson) three years later for an expansive new voyage alongside a crew of unlikely seafarers. After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced. Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand and Dana Ledoux Miller, and produced by Christina Chen and Yvett Merino, “Moana 2” features music by Grammy® winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Grammy nominee Opetaia Foa‘i, and three-time Grammy winner Mark Mancina. Jared Bush and Miller are writing the film, which is executive produced by Jennifer Lee, Bush and Johnson.

FIRST TRAILER FOR LUCASFILM’S “SKELETON CREW” DEBUTS AT D23

Attendees of the studio showcase at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event were excited to see the first trailer for “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew”. Fans welcomed star Jude Law to the stage and heard new details about the coming-of-age series that begins streaming on Disney+ on Dec. 3, 2024, with the first two episodes. Check out the new trailer now.

“Skeleton Crew” follows the journey of four kids who make a mysterious discovery on their seemingly safe home planet, then get lost in a strange and dangerous galaxy, crossing paths with the likes of Jod Na Nawood, the mysterious character played by Law. Finding their way home—and meeting unlikely allies and enemies—will be a greater adventure than they ever imagined.

Starring Jude Law, Ravi Cabot-Conyers, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, Kyriana Kratter, Robert Timothy Smith, Tunde Adebimpe, Kerry Condon and Nick Frost, episodes of the original live-action series are directed by Jon Watts, David Lowery, the Daniels (Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert), Jake Schreier, Bryce Dallas Howard and Lee Isaac Chung. The executive producers are Christopher Ford, Jon Watts, Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni, Kathleen Kennedy and Colin Wilson.

Nightdive Studios Announces Enhanced Editions of DOOM (1993) and DOOM II

Straight out of QuakeCon, we’ve got some HELLISHLY awesome news to share with you! Video game remaster developer Nightdive Studios, Bethesda Softworks, and id Software have surprise launched enhanced editions of classic first-person shooters DOOM (1993) and DOOM II!

The definitive re-release of DOOM + DOOM II is available now on Windows PC (via Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG), PlayStation® 4|5, Xbox One and Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch.

But that’s not all; Nightdive Studios has even more exciting activities ahead at QuakeCon. Let’s take a look.

Tomorrow, Nightdive Studios will host a special “Live at QuakeCon” episode of its Deep Dive podcast. The episode will feature special guests Kevin Cloud and Mike Rubits from id Software, Joshua Boyle of Bethesda Software, Dave Oshry of New Blood, and Scott Miller of Apogee Entertainment. Nightdive Studios streamer Miss_Slaughter will co-host the podcast with Nightdive Comms Manager Morgan Shaver, with additional support from Stephen Kick (Studio Head), and Larry Kuperman (Director of Business Development). The episode will feature multiple interviews and offer fans insight into the creation — and restoration — of some of their favorite classic games.

Tune in to Nightdive Studios’ Live at QuakeCon Deep Dive podcast episode on August 9 at 10 am PT / 12 pm CT / 1 pm ET via the developer’s official YouTube or Twitch channel or the co-stream by Shacknews.

Today and tomorrow, Nightdive Studios team members will additionally join Bethesda for two “Slayers Club Live” streams of DOOM + DOOM II. For more information, please visit www.twitch.tv/bethesda.

Nightdive Studios’ Deep Dive is a bi-weekly podcast series that offers fans a closer look at what the renowned team is working on via developer interviews and by showcasing behind-the-scenes content. Episodes also feature Nightdive community giveaways and shout-outs, including fan art spotlights, favorite comments, and more. Nightdive Studios fans can subscribe to the Deep Dive podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio.