Destiny: Rising has been officially announced. A free-to-play mobile RPG shooter, is set in the Destiny universe. Developed by NetEase Games, the creators of Diablo Immortal, with Bungie overseeing, it launches its closed alpha on November 1. Expect campaign missions, multiplayer modes, and both old and new characters in an alternate post-Dark Age timeline. Feels like a bit of an oof.
Multiple new studios featuring former Disco Elysium devs and ZA/UM staff have been announced in quick succession. First came Longdue, with their “psychogeography RPG,” followed by Dark Math’s XXX Nightshift. The latest is SUMMER ETERNAL, describing themselves as an “art collective/RPG studio” with a socialist co-op org. structure. Notably though, Robert Kurvitz and Aleksander Rostov are absent from all projects, so it’s hard to know how much Disco magic will be in any of these.
The Golden Joystick Awards 2024 voting is now live, with Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and Astro Bot leading the nominations with five each. Helldivers 2 follows closely with four, while Balatro has three (letsgooo). Expectedly, fan favourites like Dragon’s Dogma 2, Wukong and the Elden Ring DLC are also up. Go over and getcha votes in.
Squirrel with a Gun delivers a zAnY, sandboxy experience where you control a gun-toting squirrel causing chaos in a suburban neighbourhood. It’s got some clever platforming and puzzle mechanics, and for a short time is a light-hearted, fun gameplay loop. Its absurd premise is the selling point, and you’ll know if you’ll enjoy it after seeing like 10 seconds of any gameplay.
Caravan SandWitch is a relaxing, narrative-driven exploration game set in a post-apocalyptic world. You drive a van through vibrant, cel-shaded landscapes, helping communities and uncovering mysteries. While charming and hopeful, it can feel repetitive with its simple tasks and minimal environmental storytelling. The music and overall atmosphere are highlights though.
Tiny Glade is a charming, stress-free diorama builder where creativity is not constrained by resources, farming, or survival. Its beautiful visuals and tactile building mechanics are impressively executed, making it feel cosy and satisfying. A great option for a relaxing Sunday.
KILL KNIGHT is a fast-paced, demanding, isometric shooter blending the brutality of DOOM with Crimsonland-like mechanics. Set in an eldritch hellscape dripping with vibes, its tight combat systems, rewarding progression, and striking visuals make it engaging, addictive and ultra cool.
The Forever Winter is a co-op survival PvE extraction shooter set in a bleak, mech-dominated, war-torn world. It’s super punishing; you’re not the hero in this world, scavenging for resources amidst constant threats. The atmosphere and dynamic combat are terrifying, keeping you constantly on edge. Won’t be for everyone, but a great addition to the genre.
UFO 50 is a collection of 50 retro-style games from famed indie devs Mossmouth and friends, crossing a wide variety of genres. While each game is simple in design, they offer surprising depth and at times challenge - but more than anything, demonstrate a wild imagination and passion for game design. The nostalgic visuals, creative concepts, and sheer variety make it a fun, unique and inspiring experience.
Arco blends tactical RPG gameplay with a striking, South American-inspired art style. Its narrative is moody and compelling. Combat is unique, strategic and engaging. Lots of secrets and meaningful choices. Really, really cool game.