I fooled myself into thinking that one gets a certain amount of enjoyment ‘for free’ by virtue of being in the Star Wars universe. This has previously been true and carried me through multiple otherwise-not-amazing games. Star Wars Outlaws has proven me wrong: an uninspired, bare-minimum “open-world” experience (if you can even call it that, given how restrictive it can be)… stealth, combat, and exploration that are painfully shallow, with comically bad AI and repetitive mechanics. It has its moments of charm and “huh cool :)”, but overall a disappointment that does not live up to its potential.
Satisfactory is now at version 1.0, leaving early access after five years. The major update includes new endgame content, achievements, a story (!), player customisation options, and a million other things. Coffee Stain Studios also confirmed a console version is in development, but no release date for that yet. Check out the 1.0 launch trailer.
Another banger from Noclip: their latest doco explores the creation of Counter-Strike’s Dust2, tracing Dave Johnston’s journey from making maps as a teenager to designing one of gaming’s most iconic maps. It highlights Dust2’s evolution, cultural impact, and enduring legacy.
Black Myth: Wukong is a crazy impressive, visually stunning action RPG rooted in Chinese mythology. It’s not a soulslike, and it’s not entirely a boss-rush either. Combat is fluid, satisfying, sometimes challenging. The enemy variety is wild, and the boss designs are compelling. The narrative is engaging, the overall atmosphere and world-building are captivating. Remarkable achievement for a studios first big game.
Mika and the Witch’s Mountain feels like a love letter to Ghibli and Wind Waker, with its whimsical world, light-hearted atmosphere and gameplay. As a rookie witch, you’ll deliver packages to quirky townsfolk, zipping around on your broom through the charming art style. It’s not without flaws, but being short and sweet, they’re relatively easy to overlook. The simplicity won’t be for everyone, but if you’re up for a cosy Sunday, definitely give it a go.
Sony is pulling their new hero shooter Concord just two weeks after its release on August 23. It famously failed to gain traction, with only 660 peak players. Full refunds are being offered as developers at Firewalk Studios review the game’s future. Big oof.
Valve makes games! Initially kept under wraps via an invite-only system, Deadlock blends MOBA elements with shooter mechanics: its fast-paced, lane-based gameplay combines elements from the likes of Dota and Overwatch and is immediately compelling. While still in very early development, the game shows immense promise: everything already feels great and the setting, tone and aesthetic are super cool.
In a new report from Jason Schreier; Chris Barrett - the former Game Director for Marathon and Bungie OG - was replaced by Joe Ziegler in March 2024 after an internal investigation led to his firing. At least eight female employees had lodged complaints about Barrett’s inappropriate behaviour, prompting the investigation. Despite his departure being initially unexplained, it was later revealed that Barrett’s conduct included inappropriate comments and messages to lower-ranking staff. Barrett left the studio in April 2024, ending his nearly 25-year tenure with Bungie.
Very keen on the look of this. Check out the latest gameplay from Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a turn-based RPG with real-time elements. The video features characters Gustave and Lune exploring the Flying Waters region and battling a creature called Goblu. Launches in 2025 on basically everything.
Check out the reveal trailer of Morsels, an upcoming top-down roguelike in which you play as a mouse using cards to transform into various monsters, switching between characters across runs. Launches on Switch in February 2025.