Dungeon crawlers conceptually appeal to me as a genre, but I’ve never quite found one that I’ve entirely clicked with. I’m talking oldschool dungeon crawlers here, where you take each step as it comes. I want to crawl some dungeons! Perhaps just not like that. Hopefully, Dungeon Lurker, with its crunchy dark fantasy pixel art and muddy, deep sound effects, will be able to make the difference.
### Chivalware: An Exciting New Roguelike Adventure
Chivalware is a captivating, bite-sized roguelike title that melds tile matching with real-time combat features. Created by Regal Pigeon, the game plunges players into a lively visual experience accompanied by catchy tunes, crafting an enticing atmosphere for gaming fans. With similarities to renowned games such as *Mega Man Battle Network* and *Shovel Knight Pocket Dungeon*, Chivalware introduces a novel spin to the genre with its distinct gameplay cycle. A demo version debuted recently on Steam, and initial players are sharing positive feedback.
#### Gameplay Features
Battles in Chivalware take place on an 8×4 grid divided into two sections. Players handle one section, where squares represent various weapons and abilities. The fundamental mechanic involves triggering linked chains of at least three squares of the same type, boosting the power of attacks. When a player’s meter is fully charged, they can execute powerful strikes against their foes. This begins relatively straightforward, but as players deal with chaos in real-time skirmishes and the intricacies of their builds increase, the game’s difficulty escalates rapidly, ensuring players remain alert.
#### Roguelike Characteristics
In between confrontations, Chivalware adheres to a classical roguelike framework. Players have the option to select power-ups post-battles, explore different rooms, shop for enhancements, and encounter challenging bosses at pivotal moments. There’s a notable diversity in the arsenal players can gather and the perks available. However, initial experiences suggest that the game could improve with deeper mechanics within its Match-3 components to offer a more complex and engrossing gameplay experience.
#### Developer History
Scheduled for release by late 2026, Chivalware marks Regal Pigeon’s second venture into game development. The developer previously launched a 2D top-down bullet hell roguelike named *Neophyte*, which was available in Early Access. While *Neophyte* received favorable reviews and performed well in sales for its $3 price tag, Regal Pigeon encountered challenges in maintaining long-term support due to the game’s structure. The developer had to navigate the balance between financial sustainability and their passion for creating games, leading to the decision to transition away from *Neophyte*.
Regal Pigeon shared their thoughts in a recent Steam announcement: “While *Neophyte* exceeded my expectations in sales for my debut commercial project, it unfortunately wasn’t sufficient for sustained long-term support.” This honest insight underscores the challenges that indie developers frequently encounter in balancing creativity with business practicality.
#### Conclusion
As the gaming community looks forward to the complete release of Chivalware, it exemplifies the ingenuity and perseverance of its creator. With a solid groundwork and the promise of future developments, players are hopeful that Chivalware will flourish into a unique addition to the roguelike scene. For now, the demo highlights the enjoyable blend of gameplay mechanics that enthusiasts of both tile-matching and roguelikes can cherish.
Fancy devoting your entire existence to the whims and desires of a variety of Greek gods? Sure you do! At least in the safety of your digital blanket that is your Steam library. To do such a thing, you’ll be wanting to check out Theos: Cities Of Myth, an upcoming city-builder where you do just that, all in service of pleasing those fickle deities.
### Excitement Grows for the Return of Sly Cooper at PS5 Showcase
This evening, Sony is poised to unveil a new State of Play showcase, with enthusiasm soaring among fans eager for news on forthcoming PS5 titles. Alongside highly anticipated releases like *Wolverine*, the potential resurgence of a beloved classic from the PlayStation 2 era—*Sly Cooper*—has sparked significant interest.
#### A Wave of Nostalgia for Sly Cooper Enthusiasts
*The Cooper Gang* has been inactive for more than ten years, leaving fans longing for the return of the thieving raccoon. Over time, numerous hints have suggested the possible creation of a new release, leading fans to speculate that tonight’s showcase might at long last provide the long-anticipated revelation. This sentiment is well-founded; as the gaming environment shifts, classic franchises such as *Sly Cooper* offer a unique chance for Sony to re-establish their roots while broadening their current game range.
Interest in *Sly Cooper* was reignited when Garrett Fredley, a senior build engineer engaged in IP preservation at PlayStation, presented a slide featuring Sly during a talk with Sony leadership. This mention, along with other classic games, indicated a potential revival of interest in the franchise, even though its original developer, Sucker Punch, has appeared reluctant to return to the series.
#### Signs of a Comeback: Sneaky Devil Studios
The discussion surrounding *Sly Cooper* became even more heated with the rise of Sneaky Devil Studios, a newly formed developer comprising former members of Sanzaru Games, the studio responsible for *Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time*. Their team’s name, possibly a reference to the series, and their LinkedIn interaction with *Sly Cooper* voice actor Kevin Miller have bolstered the speculation about a forthcoming project.
Moreover, Team Asobi, creators of *Astro Bot*, added to the intrigue on social media, playfully advising fans to “check the nearest safe” if they were unable to locate Sly. This cheeky teasing has heightened excitement within the community and fostered aspirations of an announcement during the State of Play.
#### The Demand for Diversity in PlayStation’s Game Lineup
In a gaming landscape increasingly dominated by high-budget live-service titles and cinematic experiences, the craving for diverse game development methods has become more apparent. The PlayStation 5 generation has faced scrutiny for its lack of the eclectic range of titles that defined previous console eras. Many fans argue that a new *Sly Cooper* or *Ape Escape* could act as a refreshing counterweight to the current industry trends, reinvigorating creativity and enjoyment in Sony’s portfolio.
The PlayStation brand has historically flourished by taking chances with mid-tier games—projects that may not yield billion-dollar profits yet still play a crucial role in cultivating a varied gaming ecosystem. The success of indie games has demonstrated that numerous players value unique, creatively-driven experiences beyond major blockbusters.
#### Conclusion: A Blend of Nostalgia and Creativity
As excitement escalates for tonight’s showcase, the *Sly Cooper* community remains hopeful yet cautious. Fans are eager to welcome any updates regarding the return of their favorite raccoon and his escapades, while also acknowledging the broader ramifications such a development could have for Sony’s future. Merging nostalgia with innovation could be the key to rejuvenating PlayStation’s game offerings, ultimately enhancing the gaming experience for both newcomers and long-time players.
Tonight’s State of Play may serve not only as a thrilling moment for *Wolverine* and other major titles but could also signify a crucial turning point in the revival of a treasured classic, illustrating that sometimes, revisiting the past can illuminate a brighter future.
Marathon season 2 kicks off today, acting as a fresh start for every single person who’s played so far with its complete wipe of all gear. For this first week of the season, it’s also going to be free-to-play for anyone, clearly a big plea for those that haven’t yet tried it out to give it a fair shake. To do that, Bungie will be doing their first test that eases up on the challenge by offering a “PvP-lite” mode called Sponsored Survival.
**Title: Amazon’s Departure from Gaming: Effects on Tomb Raider and Future Outlook for Embracer IPs**
Last year, Amazon notably reduced its video game development goals, resulting in the layoff of thousands of staff and the cancellation of several projects, including a much-anticipated *Lord of the Rings* MMO. Despite these challenges, the retail giant is still dedicated to publishing two new *Tomb Raider* games. However, Amazon’s retreat from the gaming space has influenced both titles.
In a recent discussion with *The Game Business*, Embracer CEO Phil Rogers confirmed that Amazon’s exit, scheduled for 2025, has directly affected *Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis* and *Tomb Raider: Catalyst*. Embracer, the entity that possesses the *Tomb Raider* intellectual property, had earlier partnered with Amazon to create a TV series and various games, utilizing the know-how of longtime developer Crystal Dynamics. Although the partnership remains solid, there have been changes behind the scenes, which Rogers pointed out have not all been detrimental.
Rogers mentioned that the alterations have shifted the company’s relationships within the industry. “It’s had a massive change in terms of who we’re connecting with,” he stated, noting that the shift has also led to shorter development cycles. The merger of Amazon’s game streaming service, Luna, with Amazon Games Studios has fostered closer collaboration, which has been advantageous.
Rogers suggested that while dedicated gaming hardware will always hold a position, the gaming sector could experience notable expansion through streaming. He imagines a future where players can seamlessly transition from viewing a game-related TV series to immersing themselves in the corresponding game, crafting a cohesive entertainment experience. This indicates that forthcoming titles might be tailored for streaming platforms.
In addition to focusing on the *Tomb Raider* series, Rogers showed a willingness to revive other Embracer-owned intellectual properties such as *Deus Ex*, *Red Faction*, and *TimeSplitters* through licensing agreements. “We can’t work on everything ourselves,” he remarked, promoting collaboration with other studios and Hollywood to explore possible remakes, remasters, or entirely new adaptations.
Rogers anticipates that the next decade could unveil new prospects in licensing, empowering creators with innovative ideas or treatments to realize their visions. This readiness to collaborate paves the way for fans and developers alike to present their ideas, potentially revitalizing cherished franchises.
To summarize, while Amazon’s strategic withdrawal from gaming has posed challenges for the *Tomb Raider* franchise, it has also ushered in new dynamics within the industry. Embracer’s willingness to engage in licensing indicates that other classic IPs may discover new vitality and innovative expressions in the years ahead.
Valve boss Gabe Newell reportedly once yelled “What the f*** do I pay you for if that’s your opinion?” at the company’s general counsel Karl Quackenbush during a debate over allowing pornographic media on Steam. Quackenbush is claimed to have been arguing in favour of more stringent content moderation on the platform.
Here we go once more. The inventories are being cleared, the ranks are reset, and a plethora of new modifications are transforming Tau Ceti IV and the way players interact with it. Marathon season 2 launches today, ushering in a new nighttime survival horror map, introducing a new character, and commencing the PvP extraction shooter’s path toward a PvE-only mode. Here’s what players need to be aware of regarding Bungie’s inaugural seasonal update, what remains unchanged, and perhaps most significantly, what will drastically differ.
June 2, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. ET on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
No, at least not yet. It still typically costs $40, but for the first week of season 2, it will be free. This period runs from June 2 to June 9. Players on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC can jump in and enjoy the complete game at no charge, with all progress carrying over for anyone who later opts to purchase it. However, to play Marathon, even when free, console players will need a paid subscription (PS Plus or Game Pass Core) as it is an online multiplayer title.
Marathon is a sci-fi extraction shooter developed by Bungie, the creators of Halo and Destiny (RIP), set in the universe of its original 1990s IP revolving around a mysteriously deserted colony ship, a rogue AI, and corporate nihilism. Indentured servants known as Runners have their minds repeatedly downloaded into synthetic bodies crafted from alien silkworms to scavenge the forsaken ruins of Tau Ceti IV. In practical terms, this involves spawning on a map with two teammates, navigating the landscape to battle security drones and loot items, all while attempting to exfiltrate, as rival teams aim to do the same.
Yes and no. Individuals who have logged dozens or even hundreds of hours will possess far greater experience regarding map layouts, what to observe and listen for while moving, and the tactics and strategies that yield optimal matchups against rival teams. However, all gear and upgrades will reset at the onset of season 2. Every player will begin on equal footing gameplay-wise, at least initially, and the free week likely means that many other newcomers will also be joining the fray.
Not exactly. You still retain all of your codex entries, all of your factions, and all of your cosmetics you’ve unlocked. You will also receive some initial care packages filled with starting resources based on your rank at the conclusion of season 1:
A considerable amount, in fact. The major content additions include: an updated Dire Marsh (Night) area, a new Sentinel Runner shell, a new progression system called the Cradle, new weaponry, revised contracts, faction progression enhancements, and sandbox balance adjustments. Let’s delve into the details.
**The Current Status of PlayStation 5: Examining First-Party Game Sales and Development Hurdles**
The PlayStation 5 (PS5) phase has encountered considerable obstacles for Sony, presenting a sharp divergence from the abundant production that defined the PlayStation 4 (PS4) period. As players and industry experts contemplate this shift, it becomes evident that Sony’s approach to first-party releases and development schedules has evolved, leading to a conspicuous drop in first-party game sales.
A recent evaluation by Stephen Totilo from *Game File* highlights the downturn in first-party game sales, particularly when analyzing figures from the fiscal year 2020 compared to later years. First-party sales reached a remarkable 58.4 million copies in fiscal year 2020, propelled by PS4 hits like *Ghost of Tsushima* and *The Last of Us Part II*, along with early PS5 successes such as *Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales* and the *Demon’s Souls* remake. However, this positive trend began to wane as the PS5 entered a stagnation phase characterized by a scarcity of significant first-party launches.
In fiscal year 2025, first-party sales saw a minor rebound, credited to a revival in open-world games like *Death Stranding 2* and *Ghost of Yotei*. This resurgence provided a brief respite, halting a four-year decrease and indicating that new content can still draw player interest. Remarkably, the total game sales from last year experienced a substantial uplift, with nearly 320 million copies sold, approaching the pandemic-driven pinnacle of 338 million sales.
Nonetheless, the overall mood among PS5 users remains mixed. While Microsoft and Nintendo have enhanced their game offerings, including notable third-party games, Sony’s first-party releases lack the distinctive character that the PS4 era presented. Even though studios like Team Asobi and Sucker Punch have published commendable titles, none have become as essential to the PS5 experience as the renowned games of its predecessor.
The prolonged development cycles are among the primary factors contributing to this dilemma. Development timelines have significantly increased; processes that previously took three to four years are now extending to five or more. This shift is particularly apparent in sequels that draw from established franchises. The rise of live-service gaming as a central strategy has added further complexity. Sony’s move to adapt to this model has resulted in several high-profile setbacks, draining resources and postponing expected projects.
As we peer into the future, uncertainties linger regarding Sony’s ability to sustain progress into the next console generation, the PS6. Whether the company can harness the pent-up desire for solid first-party titles is yet to be determined. Success may hinge not only on reviving the PlayStation brand’s identity but also on optimizing development workflows to produce quality games more effectively.
In summary, while the PS5 generation has achieved overall success in hardware sales and third-party game market performance, the challenge of establishing consistency and originality in first-party offerings poses a significant hurdle for Sony. As we navigate this changing landscape, gamers will closely observe how Sony adapts and innovates in response to these challenges.
They even unlock cool cosmetics.
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