Independent developer 5PM Studio today announced that MEMORIAPOLIS – BANNERS & WONDERS launches April 28 on PC via Steam. Revealed alongside a new gameplay trailer, this isn’t a standard update but a complete overhaul of the game following a year of intensive development shaped by player feedback.
MEMORIAPOLIS built strong momentum during Early Access, earning great sales and a passionate player base. But when the full release did not meet all players expectations, 5PM Studio didn’t reach for a hotfix. Instead, the team made a bold call: step back, go dark, and come back only when the game was ready to deliver on its original promise.
The result is BANNERS & WONDERS, a reinvented experience already validated by an open beta that drew overwhelmingly positive reception.
In MEMORIAPOLIS, players build and grow a living city from Antiquity through the Industrial Revolution. Eras shift, roads sprawl organically, factions rise, and alliances form or fracture. Prosperity and betrayal go hand in hand as players write their city’s history across centuries.
With nearly 400,000 players already showing interest, BANNERS & WONDERS is not just a patch but a major update, built around three core pillars:
Wonders – A real Endgame: Each session now builds toward a definitive objective, constructing a Wonder in the Industrial Revolution, giving players a meaningful long-term goal and a powerful sense of payoff, as every decision shapes the city’s identity and leads to a final monument that stands as the ultimate expression of the player’s rule.
A Streamlined, More Accessible Experience: Core systems have been redesigned from the ground up based on direct player feedback. The friction is gone. What’s left is pure strategy, creativity, and meaningful decision-making, front and center, where it belongs.
Living Factions & Political Strategy: Factions have their own banner, personality, and political agenda. Players navigate alliances and negotiations at their own pace, adding depth and replayability without ever weighing down the experience. More freedom, more possibilities, more fun.
Albion Online, the free-to-play fantasy sandbox MMORPG developed by Sandbox Interactive has today launched its new Radiant Wilds update. The update brings a complete visual overhaul to the game which freshens up Albion’s open world whilst keeping the characteristic style, as well as bringing a number of performance improvements and new features.
With Radiant Wilds, each biome of Albion’s open world has been refreshed with improved lighting, textures, water graphics and biome-specific environmental effects to make the world feel more alive. In response to requests from the core community, extensive work has also happened behind the scenes to introduce technical and performance improvements, and going forward large-scale combat in particular will feel smoother and more stable. All of this comes with no increase to required system specs.
Players will also gain access to a brand new feature called The Armory which will provide suggested builds for different gameplay modes based on real data, making it easier for players to find the build best suited for any activity. The Arena, which currently offers a 5v5 mode, has also added a 1v1 mode for players looking to get accustomed to solo PvP in a non-lethal space.
Beginning on 17 April, Albion Online will also be hosting a creator event called The Crucible II. Full details are available on the website, and the event will see a stacked lineup of content creators ready to rally their community and lead a guild to victory. Guilds will earn points by taking part in in-game activities, and major prizes will be available for the champion and runners up.
Finally, on 21 April Albion Online will also take its first step into the console space when it launches on Xbox Series X|S with cross-platform play, meaning players will be in the same world and the same servers, fully adapted for Xbox.
The chaotic climb out of the afterlife continues as Death By Scrolling arrives on consoles on April 16, launching simultaneously on Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. The console release will coincide with a major update for the PC version, bringing new content and quality-of-life improvements across all platforms.
Set in the ever-shifting bureaucratic nightmare of Purgatory Inc., Death By Scrolling is an endlessly scrolling action roguelite where players must fight their way upward through monsters, hazards, and relentless pressure from the Reaper herself. The world never stops moving, the floor is always rising, and the only escape is to keep climbing.
Players choose from a cast of unique characters, each with their own abilities and playstyles, and attempt to survive the vertical chaos long enough to collect the gold needed to pay the Ferryman’s exorbitant crossing fee. Along the way, players will encounter bizarre enemies, strange vendors, unexpected side quests, and plenty of opportunities to improve their build mid-run.
Thick as Thieves, is the exciting first step into a stealth adventure set in a distinctive 1910’s alternative history world, is coming to PC on May 20.
Previously unveiled at The Game Awards, the Triple-i Initiative trailer showcases the heart-racing heists waiting for players next month.
Thick as Thieves offers a grand introduction to Kilcairn, a fictional Scottish city full of intrigue and adventure. It’s a tightly curated, multi-hour experience that includes two thieves, two dynamic and highly replayable maps, 16 contracts, and 6 unique pieces of gear.
Offering immersive and dynamic stealth gameplay, the game can be played either solo or co-op. Every heist will be different as players take on contracts, find new gear, explore the history of Kilcairn and its influential families and seize their fortune to become a master thief.
Thick as Thieves comes from developer OtherSide Entertainment – led by industry legends Warren Spector (Thief ® III and Deus Ex ®) and Paul Neurath (Thief® and Thief® II) – and publisher Megabit®. The game is Directed by Jeff Hickman (Star Wars: The Old Republic ®, Warhammer ® Online and Dark Age of Camelot ®.)
Jeff Says, “Unveiling Thick as Thieves to the world feels like finally springing a long-planned heist. Every mechanic and choice has been made with intent—there is nothing accidental, nothing wasted. Players aren’t just stepping into a game; they’re joining our crew, cracking the lock, and pulling off the score we’ve been quietly building for years. Watching the world slip into this world of thieves and schemes is thrilling, and I can’t wait to see the clever chaos they create.”
Honestly, it’s been six long years since the original Max dropped, and if you’re like me, you’ve probably spent that time watching the competition eat GoPro’s lunch in the 360 space. But is the GoPro Max 2 the “game-changer” we were promised? Or just a very shiny stop-gap? After dragging this little box through the dirt and hanging it off a motorcycle for a few weeks, I have some thoughts.
Does “True 8K” Actually Matter?
Let’s get into the weeds for a second. GoPro is shouting from the rooftops about “True 8K.” You know what? It actually makes a difference. Most 360 cameras play a bit of a shell game with pixels, but the Max 2 feels crisp. When you reframe your footage, which is basically just zooming into a flat portion of that 360 bubble, you’re still getting a solid 1440p image. It doesn’t look like a blurry mess on a big screen, and that’s a huge win for anyone trying to cut 360 clips into a 4K timeline.
The 10-bit color and GP-Log encoding are the real MVPs here, though. If you’ve ever filmed a bright blue sky and seen those ugly “bands” of color, you know the struggle. The Max 2 smooths all that out. It gives you a billion colors to play with, which is a massive upgrade if you like to spend your Sunday afternoons color-grading in Premiere.
I’m Clumsy, and GoPro Knows It
Here’s the thing: 360 lenses are terrifying. They stick out like little fish eyes just waiting to meet a rock. In the past, a single scratch meant your $500 camera was now a very expensive paperweight. But the “Twist-and-Go” lens system on the Max 2? It’s genius. You literally just twist the lens off with your fingers and pop a new one on. No tools, no sending it back to the factory, no tears. I actually dropped mine while mounting it, and being able to just swap the glass was a life-saving moment for my wallet.
The Elephant in the Dark Room
Okay, let’s be real: don’t take this thing to a rave. Or a dimly lit dinner. Honestly, the low-light performance is just bad. Because the sensors are still relatively small, the image gets noisy and grainy the second the sun starts to go down. If you’re a night owl looking to film city streets at midnight, you’re probably better off with a competitor that has a 1-inch sensor.
GoPro tried to fix this with some “Blur Reduction” firmware, and it helps a little, but physics is a tough opponent. For a camera that’s meant to be “professional,” this is a bit of a letdown. But then again, if you’re using an action cam for cinematic night shots, you might be asking too much from a device the size of a deck of cards.
Living that “Invisible” Life
One of my favorite things about 360 is the “invisible” selfie stick effect. It makes you look like you have a personal drone following you around. GoPro launched about 16 new accessories for this, including some really slick carbon fiber poles that are stiff enough to keep the camera steady even when you’re moving fast.
The new 1/4-20 mount on the bottom is a blessing, too. It means you can use standard tripod gear without those annoying adapters. And for the gamers and vloggers out there, you can finally connect your AirPods via Bluetooth to use them as a wireless mic. It’s not “studio quality,” but for a quick walk-and-talk, it beats fighting with wind noise on the built-in mics.
The Workflow: Quik vs. The World
Editing 360 footage used to be a nightmare, but the Quik app has gotten surprisingly smart. There’s this “MotionFrame” thing where you just move your phone around to reframe the shot. It feels very natural, almost like you’re holding a physical camera inside the video.
However, if you’re looking for crazy AI effects or “one-tap” edits, the competition still has a bit of an edge. GoPro is leaning more into the “pro” side of things with GoPro Labs, which lets you do stuff like HDRI capture for VFX work. It’s a bit geeky, but if you like to “hack” your gear for extra performance, it’s a dream.
So, Should You Buy It?
If you already live in the GoPro ecosystem and you want a tank that can survive a mountain bike crash, the Max 2 is a no-brainer. It’s rugged, the 8K looks great in the sun, and those replaceable lenses take all the anxiety out of shooting action.
But here’s the kicker: GoPro just announced their next-gen GP3 chip. We’re seeing rumors of a “Max 3” that might actually solve the low-light problem and give us even higher frame rates. Is it worth waiting? If you need a camera today for your summer trips, the Max 2 is a solid pick. But if you’re a spec-chaser, you might want to keep one eye on that NAB 2026 reveal.
Basically, the Max 2 is the best “action” 360 camera out there. Just don’t expect it to see in the dark, and make sure you carry a few extra batteries if you’re planning on a long day of 8K shooting. It’s a reliable, punchy, and tough-as-nails tool that finally feels like the camera the original Max should have been.
Strategic Conclusion
The GoPro Max 2 is a foundational device that successfully stabilized GoPro’s position in the spherical market. While it does not solve every technical challenge, most notably low-light performance, it addresses the practical needs of the “action” demographic through lens durability, mounting versatility, and a streamlined software pipeline.
As the company transitions to the GP3 processor in mid-2026, the Max 2 serves as the ultimate expression of the GP2 generation. It has successfully moved 360-degree capture from a gimmick into a professional tool capable of delivering “True 8K” content that can be seamlessly integrated into high-end production workflows. For professional peers and creators, the Max 2 remains a highly recommended acquisition for daylight action, while the forthcoming GP3-powered cameras represent the next frontier in low-light and cinema-grade compact imaging.
Overall Rating 4 out of 5
Pros
“True 8K” recording.
The innovative “Twist-and-Go” lens system.
Professional 10-bit color and GP-Log support.
The rugged, stable form factor.
Currently the only 360-degree camera on the market to feature built-in GPS.
Cons
Not the greatest low-light video performance.
The camera tends to run hot.
Battery runtime is shorter than the industry standard.
GoPro’s editing workflow is mostly smartphone app-based.
Balor Games and Studio Pixanoh are thrilled to announce that Town of Zoz is now available on PC via Steam. The narrative RPG, rooted in Latin American culture, makes every meal an adventure. Players will uncover secrets, heal a village and forge bonds through magical cooking, fast-paced combat, relaxing farming and a heartfelt journey.
In the Town of Zoz, players become Ito, a young shaman chef returning to his family’s farm and restaurant in a vibrant village. As mysterious forces cast a dark cloud over the once-peaceful town, Ito embarks on a journey to uncover the ancient secrets threatening his family and friends. Players hunt magical creatures, gather ingredients, cook meals that strengthen bonds with townsfolk, and slash through shadows alongside a shapeshifting spirit companion. Every dish prepared and every relationship forged brings the village closer to healing and reveals the hidden truths of its forbidden past in a story rich with warmth, mystery, and magic.
Town of Zoz is a love letter to anime and the golden Y2K era of JRPGs. The developers set out to create a world and game deeply inspired by their favorite classics, while also infusing it with the rich flavors and culture of Latin America. Max Gonzalez, Creative/Art Director even drew on personal experiences to bring food to life in Town of Zoz. He infused the game with Latin American dishes he craves when he personally misses his mom’s cooking or shares with friends, turning those memories into in-game recipes. These magical recipes are the key to solving problems and strengthening the community.
“Cooking has always been a way to connect with family and friends,” said Max Gonzalez, Creative/Art Director. “In Town of Zoz, players gather ingredients and prepare meals to cultivate relationships with villagers. I wanted players to feel the same sense of connection that cooking gives me. Unlocking memories, forging bonds, and sharing meaningful moments. Each recipe reflects a piece of my life and the traditions that shaped me.”
Key Features
Friendship awaits: Carve your path through a story-driven campaign alongside Zee, your shapeshifting spirit companion, as well as a vibrant cast of allies including a water-slinging plant warrior and an all-star ball player. Each companion brings their own unique abilities and personality to your journey.
Cooking saves the day: Certain villagers carry stories just waiting to unfold, and Ito’s magical recipes including Pupusas, Beef Empanadas and Tres Leches, are the key to solving problems and strengthening your community. Harvest crops and cook powerful meals that fuel your journey, granting varying buffs as you face rare and dangerous magical creatures.
From relaxing to nightmarish: Take on Village Nightmares, challenging dungeons manifested from villagers’ minds, and bring them peace. Shift seamlessly between high-stakes, fast-paced combat and the warmth of emotional cooking and relaxing farming.
Gorgeous modern fantasy: Immerse yourself in the striking, hand-crafted art that brings Zoz to life.
Publisher astragon and developer Simteract today released a brand-new trailer for Bus Simulator 27, offering an exciting first look at the game’s vibrant world.
The newly unveiled Felicia Bay Trailer highlights the diverse landscapes and bustling cities of Felicia Bay – a sunny, fictional region in southern Europe inspired by the Iberian Peninsula.
Bus Simulator 27 features more than 20 unique districts, each with its own character and notable landmarks including the two lively cities: Alcaztelar and Mequina. While Mequina stretches along the picturesque coastline, Alcaztelar is nestled between two impressive mountain ranges, creating a striking contrast in scenery.
With the introduction of cross-country routes, players can seamlessly connect these cities with surrounding towns and villages. Along the way, they’ll experience scenic coastal roads, rugged mountain passes, and a wide variety of sights across the region.
Powered by Unreal® Engine 5, Bus Simulator 27 delivers a new level of visual fidelity for the series, featuring dynamic weather conditions and a fully realized day-night cycle.
Bus Simulator 27 will be released for Steam, Epic Games Store, and the Microsoft Store, as well as PlayStation®5, and Xbox Series X|S in 2026. More details about the game will be revealed in the future.
Bus Simulator 27 can now be added to your wishlist.
Independent UK developer and publisher FuturLab has announced PowerWash Simulator 2: Adventure Time Special Pack is available now on PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with a Nintendo Switch 2 release in the coming weeks. Officially licensed by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, the game’s first DLC invites players to hose down the Land of Ooo and restore it to its former glory.
Armed with a trusty candy-coated washer, players will scrub and spray down five iconic Adventure Time locations whilst hearing from familiar characters including Finn the Human, Princess Bubblegum, the Earl of Lemongrab and more. Interact with beloved BMO for a burst of BMOtivation, or take advantage of Jake the Dog’s stretchy powers as he takes the form of a scissor lift = the ultimate pick me up!
The Adventure Time Pack features five beloved locations across the Candy Kingdom:
Tree House Living Room
Pizza Sassy’s
Ice King’s Castle
Candy Vehicles
Tree House
Each location has been recreated and packed with messy mayhem and merged with PowerWash Simulator 2’s signature satisfying gameplay. Players take up the role of one of Princess Bubblegum’s hastily created Royal Candy Cleaners, and wield a new custom washer perfect for tackling even the most stubborn stains plaguing the Land of Ooo.
Whether cleaning solo or grabbing your friends in co-op, the Adventure Time Special Pack builds on PowerWash Simulator 2’s improved tools, enhanced visuals, and expanded multiplayer options, making every blast feel more rewarding than ever. Each job is packed with Adventure Time easter eggs for fans to discover as they blast away the dirt!
The Adventure Time Special pack is now available for PowerWash Simulator 2 on PlayStation®5, PC, Xbox Series X|S, and will be coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 soon for £6.50 / €7.99 / $7.99.
About PowerWash Simulator 2 PowerWash Simulator 2 builds upon the calming yet immersive first-person cleaning sim. With new tools, 38 multi-stage jobs, a customisable home-base, split-screen and online co-op, and smarter quality of life systems that enhance the satisfying cleaning experience of turning grime, spotless.
NASA believes there may be life on Jupiter’s moon Europa. In Barotrauma, there is no doubt. And with the upcoming Home & Harbor Expansion for Barotrauma, that life is about to become a little more… permanent. Revealed today with first gameplay, the upcoming expansion introduces outpost ownership, base building, and management. Crews can claim, expand, or take over outposts by force, turning them into operational hubs with industry, research, and a population to manage. The expansion is set to release in Autumn 2026.
This shift changes more than just where you dock. Outposts become part of a living system, tied into Barotrauma’s faction dynamics and economy. Roaming submarines contribute to trade and supply, while factions gain and lose ground beyond the player’s immediate reach. Europa moves, with or without you.
Simultaneously, a new faction enters the scene. The Descendants bring alien technology, body modifications, and a fresh layer of unease to an already unstable ecosystem. Their arrival opens a new chapter in Barotrauma’s ongoing story.
Today’s trailer offers a first look at the expansion in motion, while the first developer diary takes a closer look at the systems and the lore behind it.
Today, 2K and Gearbox Software announced Hallowed Concepts, the fourth expansion coming to Risk of Rain 2. Check out the teaser trailer here.
In this expansion, the lessons of darkness and death, once contained to rumour and hearsay, are getting louder and harder to ignore. Hallowed Concepts takes players deeper into the cult-like world of N’Kuhana. Survivors will fight through haunting new regions of Petrichor V, face horrific new enemies, and uncover powers never before possible in Risk of Rain 2.
Hallowed Concepts offers powerful curses to overcome, deadly trials to face, and new stages to explore, including the fetid depths of the returning Damp Caverns, the villages of the Tenebrous Quagmire, and the sacred ground of The Lurid Basilica. Players can explore this new content as two new playable Survivors coming as part of Hallowed Concepts.
For the latest information on Risk of Rain 2, visit our website, and follow the game across YouTube, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.
